AN: Hi, this is my second fic so please be nice and review. This fic starts in 1996 in an AU, post Johanna but pre-Rick. I don't own anything recognisable (wish I owned the show though!). Everything should be self-explanatory, but feel free to make constructive criticism if it doesn't make sense.

Katherine Beckett lay back on her bed, smiling as she picked up a book. She had just joined the police and it was the first night in months that she did not have to work. Relaxing into the pillows, she opened the book and began to read. Before she had read a page however, the phone rang. Reaching for the receiver on her bed stand, Beckett was mildly irritated, anticipating a call from work. She was surprised when the voice she heard was that of her best friend Rachel's husband – Cameron. Rachel and Cameron had married a year ago and Rachel was now pregnant.

'Kate? It's Cameron'

'Hey Cam, how are you?'

'I'm fine thanks, but Rachel's not'

Kate instantly jumps out of bed. Rachel had been her best friend for years and had helped Kate to move on after the death of her mother. Whatever had happened Kate was going to be there for her friend, particularly as she was expecting and the baby was due in the next week or so. Struggling to keep calm, Beckett's voice rose as she enquired after Rachel.

'What's wrong?'

'She's been in labour for almost 9 hours now and they think the baby's in the wrong position; it might be dead. I don't know what to do Kate. Rachel means everything to me and I feel so helpless. I asked if I could help and she asked for you.'

'I'll be there. Which hospital are you in?'

After writing down the details provided by Cameron. Kate dressed quickly and ran out of her apartment and into the elevator. Barely 10 minutes later she arrived at the hospital and no more than 3 minutes after that she had reached Rachel's room.

'Cameron'

'Kate, I'm so glad you're here'

'How is she?'

At this point Rachel's scream disrupted the conversation.

'Hurting'

'I never would have guessed'

Kate's sarcastic response came before she had a chance to think and she quickly chastised herself for being callous. Cameron's chuckle came as a complete shocks.

'I needed that; I've been grinding my teeth since she went in. If you hadn't said that I would need dentures by the time it's born'

'Glad to help! Can I go in or are the doctors keeping us out?'

'You can go in, it's fine.'

Kate smiled and cautiously entered the room. Rachel was sprawled on the bed, covered in sweat. A young doctor stood by her side of the bed and noticed Kate's entrance.

'Are you Kate?'

'Yes. Kate Beckett, nice to meet you. What's happening?'

Rachel spoke, addressing her friend.

'Kate, I'm so happy to see you. This thing's driving me nuts!'

Kate watched as Rachel suddenly grit her teeth. Despite knowing what would happen, she couldn't help wincing as her friend's face screwed up in pain and she began to scream. Rushing to her bedside, Kate grasps Rachel's hand and tries to calm her.

'It's okay. I know it hurts Rach. Just relax and it'll be over soon.'

The contraction seemed to last forever. Rachel eventually stoped screaming and Kate relaxed; until she noticed that Rachel wasn't breathing properly.

'Doctor! It doesn't look like she's breathing.'

'What?!'

The two of them watched Rachel closely and the doctor called for a nurse.

'Kate, I need you to leave, let Mr Brent know what's happening. Don't worry; we'll do our best for her and the baby.'

'Sure'

Kate opened the door and was immediately confronted by Cameron; who looked terrified. She walked towards the tea and coffee station in the next room and as she expected, Cameron follows. Handing him a cup of tea, she told him the little she knew and they both sat to wait.

Around half an hour and uncountable laps of the tea station later a hassled looking nurse ran in. She stated simply

'It's coming'

Kate and Cameron were instantly on their feet and following her to Rachel's room. They watched through the door as a tiny baby emerged from the fabric over Rachel's waist and legs. Kate sensed immediately that something was wrong. The baby was quiet and still, as was Rachel. The room was silent, all eyes on the baby; waiting for a sound or movement. Cameron rushed past Kate and grabbed his child, rubbing it's back vigorously.

*cough*

The tension broke and Cameron laughed with joy, cradling his baby. Kate smiled as the staff congratulated her friends and she made her way to Rachel.

'Congratulations. You'll be a great mum.'

'I know I will.'

'Actually I correct myself, you already are. I wouldn't spend 9 hours screaming then completely forget about it for my child!'

'Fair point Miss Impatient!'

The two women were laughing as Cameron brought the baby over.

'It's a girl. You made a perfect little baby girl Rach'

'Cam you helped! We can argue about whose fault she is later right now though, I just want my baby.'

'Sure honey'

Rachel took the baby in her arms and all the pain and worry of the past 9 hours seemed worth it. The girl was peaceful and settled in her mother's embrace. Kate took the disposable camera offered by a nurse and quickly snapped a photo of the couple with their child.

All too soon the little girl was whisked away by the staff and Cameron and Kate were asked to let Rachel rest.

Walking out together, Kate asked if Cameron had any names in mind.

'What will you call her?'

'We have no idea. It has to match her personality though. We'll wait a few days until we know her better.'

'That's a good idea. She'll probably like it better when she's older if it suits.'

'Exactly'

'Rachel and I were talking yesterday. Since you girls have always so close, would you like to be the baby's godmother?'

'Wow, Cam. Are you sure?'

'Yeah we are. Would you become our little girl's godmother?'

'Definitely. I know I'm not a fairy but I'll do my best!'

'Thanks Kate'

The two friends parted in the car park. Kate entered her vehicle and checked the clock – 2am. She had to start getting ready for work 3 hours later and she knew that she'd be shattered, but oddly enough she didn't care.