Lover's partner's and friend's: Elisa's tale

by Clan Dragon

Elisa's current love life brings up thoughts of an old lover and how she affects three seperate lives.

1. Elisa's tale

Friends, Partners, Lovers: Elisa's Tale.

By Invsi Xavier

Untitled

By Invsi Xavier. (tjarred@hotmail.com)

Comments welcome

Author's Note: the characters depicted herein are mostly the property of the Folks at Disney, and are used here without their authorization. Mita Reindheart and Sandra Cantiago are the property of my beau Angel of the night. All other characters are the property of me. note: this story contains profanity and Sexual content. The songs It's so hard to say goodbye to Yesterday and Four Seasons is by Boyz 2 Men, Well this is my entry to the KGPC contest. The reason is writing this fic is to stretch my NC-17 writing muscles and have some fun doing it. Oh, yeah this fic will be used as part of he Eight Race Story line and is taking place a few weeks before New Beginnings.

Eyrie Tower

September 11th

9:30p.m

Goliath paced around upon the parapets of Castle Wyvern with a worried look on his face. Mainly his concern was on the disappearance of his lover Elisa. She has not shown up at the castle for the last three days and he was worried sick. She has never been away from him for this long. He has glided from the castle to her apartment as even to chance of seeing a glimpse of her. but to no avail. He has even asked Xanatos if his raven-haired lover has shown up today but even he doesn't know. This recent turn of events has made the lavender giant even more nervous. Probably he scared off from the proposal hat he has given to her a few weeks ago? No that can't be it Elisa loves him why would she run from him? Not having his answer to his love's whereabouts where driving him mad. He was about to continue his thoughts until herd the sound of footsteps on the stone floor. Goliath looked behind him and saw his future mother-in-law Diane Maza walking up to him. The lavender giant caped his wings and walked over to her and smiled slightly.

"Good, evening Diane." says Goliath.

Diane smiled. "Pleasecall me mom." She smiles. "So how are you doing tonight?"

Goliath frowned." I am worried about my Elisa. I have been trying to come into contact with her for the last few days. Do you happen to no the whereabouts of her."

Diane's smile slowly disappeared. "Well, for most of the time she has been with me we have already started to plan for the wedding. But, for the most part she has been visiting someone special to her."

Goliath arched a browridge. "Someone special?" Goliath searched his mind. The only people that Elisa considered special to her was her own Family and the Donovans. "But, he has spoken to May also and none of them has seen her either. Who else could they be in her life.

Diane sensed that Goliath was at a loss for words and stated to speak once more. "Well, GoliathElisa was in love with someone once before." she lowered her head. "Somebody really special to her."

"Well who is it that is so special to my Elisa that she hasn't introduce her to me?" says Goliath.

It was Diane's turn to be silent she wanted to tell Goliath where Elisa.. really was. But, should she really? Every has there own regrets that they don't want to tell to anybodynot even too there life mates. As she was considering this she felt Goliath rest a strong taloned hand on her shoulder.

"Diane...tell me." rumbles Goliath as he looks into her eyes. "Please, I need to know this."

Diane then looked up at Goliath and into his onyx colored eyes and the concern that they held within. She actually felt sorry about holding the whereabouts of her daughter, she then let out heavy sigh and looked away once more. "She's at the cemetery."

"At the cemetery." says Goliath. "What for? Says Goliath.

"Like I said she's visiting friendI see"he then flares his wings. "Then I shall go and see her."

"Goliathwait." Says Diane.

"Yes?" says Goliath as he looked over at her.

"There's something you should know first"says Diane.

"Well then..."says Goliath as he capes his wings and walks over to her. "Tell me."

---

Cemetery

September 11th, 2000

9:30p.m

Elisa Maza walked over throughout the rows of tombstones that covered the large cemetery.. in her hands was a small bouquet of flowers in hand. She notice that there was no one else here at the cemetery at this point and timeso she should be grateful. That and for the kindly security guard that let her in. She proceeded to walk until she came upon a lone grave at the top of her hill. She noticed that the grave that wasn't taking care of ver well. She then set the flowers to the side and kneeled down. She then brushed the moss and dust away from the head stone and stared at the inscription.

Sandra Loraine Cantiago

She was loved by all.

February 14th, 1968 -February 14th, 1991

She looked upon the grave and felt her heart breaking. She actually found it hared and harder to come up here after she and Goliath became mates. Usually it wasn't that hard for her to come here and to visit her former lover's grave. But, it has been getting a little bit tougher since she has been sleeping with Fox, and Celine.. To be around with tm especially with Fox reminds her of how much she did miss her. She then runs her hands through her raven locks and lets her mind wander to her former lover

"Sandy." Says Elisa.

---

Streets of Manhattan

April 23rd, 1990

9:30p.m

"Stop in the name of the law!" yells Elisa as she ran down the streets of Manhattan as she tried to close in on a trio of punks with a fellow officer not too far behind her.

The punks then made a sharp turn into one of the alleyways of the Manhattan. Elisa and the other officer were in hot pursuit. One of the punks stopped at a group of trashcans sand kicked it in her direction. Elisa nimbly leaped over the trash can and continues to run after the three punks. They turned down a narrow alleyway where a fence blocked off the remainder of it. She then watched as a punk with dreadlocks nimbly leapt upon the fence, grabbed the top and vaulted himself over it. What even surprised her the largest of the three punks was able to do it just as easily. But, the third punk was not so lucky before the punk could reach the fence Elisa and the other officer was upon him and they dragged him off the fence.

"Get off of me!" screams the young man. "I didn't do nothing!"

"Oh, yeah tell that to the old woman you tried to rob back there." Says Elisa as she gets out her handcuffs. She then turns to the other officer. "You better hurry after those punks Locksley, I got this one."

Locksley just nodded and scaled the fence to continue the chase after the punks while Elisa read the young man his rights. After securing his hands behind his back with the steel handcuffs she led him back to the patrol car. she opened the door and forced the punk back inside before officer Locksley runs up to her clearly out of breath.

"Sorry...Elisain a light blue Ford. License plate number .XY1 4563" says Locksley as he tries to catch his breath.

Elisa then grumbles and walks over to the squad car and repeats the rest of the information to the dispatcher. Meanwhile the other officer slides in and closes the door behind him still trying to catch his breath. After giving all the information to the dispatcher she started up the car and drove off again.

"Well, at least not all of them have gotten away." Says Locksley.

Elisa just looks at her fellow officer with raised brow." Yeahnot all of them."

23rd precinct (Captain Chavez office)

April 23rd, 1990

6:00p.m

Captain Chavez sat in her office arranging a few scraps of paper on her desk as she tried to get her work for the night organized. She then sat down in her leather chair and admired the picture of her nine-year old daughter which was recently framed. After admiring the picture for a few minuents she turned to the work load on her desk with a sigh. A few minuents later there came a knock at the door.

Chavez laid her pen down on her desk and leaned back in the chair. "Enter."

The door opened and Elisa Maza walked in. in her police uniform and her raven black hair tucked behind her ears." I heard you wanted to see me?"

Chavez leaned forward and steeple her fingers. "Yes, but, first I want to know how you are doing on the recent string of robberies? Do you have any leads on who might be behind this?"

Elisa then nods." Yes, Ma'am the guy that we brought in a few minuents ago is a member of a gang known as The Lost Boys."

Chavez arches a brow at her." The Lost Boys? They were mostly small timers compared to some of the other gangs in this city. When did they start to go become serious?"

"It seems about a few weeks ago ma'am." says Elisa. "They have been become much more organized and more evasive.

Chavez nods." I know. If it wasn't for you and Locksley this would have been third time that all the members have gotten away. These Lost Boys are becoming a serious matter. But, that is what I did not call you in fortake a seat Maza."

Elisa then moved over to the leather seat and sat down. "So, what is all of this about Captain?"

"Well,"says Chavez. "I'm giving you a new patrol partner Maza." Says Chavez.

"WHAT?" says Elisa as her eyes almost bulge form her sockets." But, Why Captain? Me and Locksley are getting along just fine. I mean--"

"That's enough!" says Chavez." The reason why I'm giving you a new partner is because Locksley is being transferred to another precinct. And you're still to fresh to be working alone so I'm teaming you up with Sandra Cantiago."

"Who?" says Elisa as she arches brow.

"I know you two haven't met yet." says Chavez. "But,, since her partner quit the force a few weeks ago I have been looking for someone to team her up with." she smiles." and you seem to be the perfect candidate."

"But, Captain!" says Elisa.

"No, buts Maza." says Chavez. "I advise that you and Sandra try to get along with each otheror at least meet. She is supposed to get off shift anytime now. If you hurry you could meet each other."

Elisa just fumed for a moment as she stared at the captain. "Alright, I'll met her"

Chavez smile." Good." she then waved a dismissing hand. "You're dismissed."

Elisa Maza rose from her seat and left the Chavez's office without saying another word.

---

Once outside she walked over to the time clock on the wall and distinctly punched out. She then saw one of her fellow female officers walking along the hallway and discreetly pulled her aside. Asking if Sandra was still around the Female officerdirected her to the locker room. Elisa just thanked the female officer and walked off in the direction of the locker room to catch her soon-to-to be partner. When Elisa enter the living room she found it out to be pretty much empty since the night shift has just started. Elisa sighs and hurries her away past the last bit of stragglers on the whereabouts of Sandra. Tired from here search she sat down on the bench right in front of Sandra's locker determined not to miss her. Exactly twenty minuents later her answer came in one of the most intersting of ways. Elisa watched as a 5'8 woman with long brown hair, slightly tanned skinned and ocean blue eyes walked in view. But, that's not all of that was in view...Elisa' visions was on the pair of 52C breasts with large brown areolas and chocolate brown nipples. From the looks of her she was no slouch in the gym and has slight six-pac showing. Her body was also wet from a shower she had just taken, The woman stood in front of the still gawking Elisa and rested a hand on towel hip.

"Excuse, me sugar, you're blocking my way." Says the woman with slight hint of southern accent in her voice.

Elisa blinked. "Um, sorryI was just looking for Sandra Cantiago." She then tried to swallow the lump in the throat. "Are you her?"

Sandra smiled as she unlocked her locker. "That's me Sug,"she then started to remove her clothes from the locker. "Any particular reason why would you be looking for me?"

"Well, it's just that ?I came here to tell you that...umI'm you new"

Before Elisa could speak another word Sandra deftly removed her towel revealing her hairless pubic area and Elisa almost had conniption. Her face flushed out as she looked away from the ravishing beauty as she shut her eyes tightly. Sandra saw Elisa's reaction and smiled a bit.

"What's a matter Sug?" says Sandra coyly. "It's not like you have never seen a woman's body before?"

"Yeah, I have...but I don't flaunt it like that." Thought Elisa." I'm sorry probably I should wait until I get dressed before we continue."

"It's alright hun." says Sandra as she pulls on her lace panties and blue jeans." I'm used to be seen in the nude so no worries. "She sits on the bench and puts on her socks and shoes.

"Well, I'm not used to doing things like this." Says Elisa. She then rose form the bench and looked away form her. "Are you done yet?"

Sandra reached inside her locker and pulled out a white long-sleeve shirt and threw it on. "Alright I'm dressed so tell me what's on your mind Sugar."

Elisa turned around to face her. "Well, I'm here to tell you that I'm your--"

"Hey, are you hungry?" says Sandra as she started to lace up her shoes. She stopped and looked over at her. "Oh, I'm sorry, I' can be so rude at times. So what did you want to ask me?"

Elisa sighed again. "Finally.". She extended a hand towards her. "I'm your new partnerElisa Maza."

Sandra smiles at her and shakes her hand. "Nice to meet you Elisa. So now that I know why you here. How about that dinner?"

Elisa was completely moved by the other woman's boldness. They haven' even gotten to know each other for even an hour and she got invited to he dinner with her. She was about to speak when she sees Sandra's features wrinkle into a frown.

"I guess that means no...huh Sug?" says Sandra.

"No it's not like that." Says Elisa. "I mean you don't invite a total stranger out to dinner." She then sits down on the bench.

Sandra sits with her. "That's why I want to ask you to have dinner with meI ant to know a little bit more about you. While you'll find out a little bit about me." She hen smiles. "Sound good Sugar?"

Elisa blinks. "Um, sure, I guess I can have dinner with you. "She stands. "Since I didn't have lunch today."

"Good. Says Sandra as she stands up again. She then reaches into her locker and pulls out a red bomber jacket and tosses it on. "Let's go then. I know a little place not too far from here."

"Alright just give me sometime to get out of these clothes." Says Elisa.

"Okay, Sug I'll meet you out I front in fifteen minuents." Says Sandra as she leaves the locker room.

Elisa just watches Sandra leave. "Werid woman."

---

Fifteen minuets later Elisa walked outside of the Police Precinct and looked around the for Sandra. All of sudden there came the honking of horn. Elisa blinked as she stared at The woman in the Driver's side of a Black 67' Chevrolet. Elisa then walked over to the side of the car and just admired the detail and sleekness of it. It must of cost the brown haired beauty a fortune to restore it to tip-top shape. Sandra smiled as she watched the young officer admire her wheels.

"You like?" says Sandra as she smiled.

"I like." says Elisa as she walks over to the passenger side door and smiled at the leather interior. "How long did take to restore it?"

Sandra smiled. "I'll tell you along the way to dinner." says Sandra. "She then motioned for Elisa to sit with a slight top of the seat. "Hop on in."

Elisa slid into the car and closed the door behind her. Sandra smiled and turned on the engine. A powerful rumble rippled through the detective's body as the Chevrolet roared to life. Sandra just looked at the detective with an another grin.

"You feel that Sug?" says Sandra. "That's pure power right there! It's my pride and joy." She then shifted the car into drive and pulled into traffic.

---

The Dragon

April 23rd, 1990

6:35p.m

Sandra's car pulled up in front of The Dragon and both Sandra and Elisa got out the car and walked up to the small restaurant. Sandra opened the door and let Elisa inside of the establishment. As soon as one of the females walked in they were greeted by an doughy middle-aged balding man in his mid 40's/ From the looks of the guy...he didn't even know how to dress himself well everything mismatched. But, Sandra seemed to know him pretty well as they talked and joked a bit before getting down to business.

"Oh, Berto this my new partner Elisa Maza." Says Sandra as she motioned to her.

"Its-a so good to meet ya!" says Berto. "My, name is-a Berto I'm the owner of the Dragon." he then motioned the girls to follow him. "So, Sandy you want-a the usual seat? "the portly man then motioned for the two of them to a booth near the window.

"Sure." Says Sandra as she slid into one side. "Can I also have my usual please. "she then looks over at Elisa. "You want a menu sugar?"

"Um, yes, please." Says Elisa.

Berto nodded and then motioned over to a woman with her hair done in a ponytail. She was busy flirting with a darker skinned man with his hair down in Dreadlocks. Berto then furrowed his brow at the both of his employees.

"Angel, will you bring Ms. Maza a menu please!" says Berto as his voice rises with anger. He looks at the dark skinned man. "And you Xavier! Give Sandra her usual."

Xavier then grumbled something intelligible and waked back into the kitchen. While Angel grabbed a menu off the counter and walked over to the trio and handed it to Elisa.

"So, what do you want?" says Angel.

Elisa browsed over the menu a few times and after choosing the meal she wanted she handed the menu to Angel and she walked away.

Berto just huffed at the waitress. "Sorry, about her Ms. Maza they just started working here today." Says Berto. "Is there anything else I can get for you?"

"No thanks." Says Elisa.

"Alright ,you orders will be done in fifteen minuents." Says Berto before he walks off.

As soon as Berto was out of earshot Elisa looked at Sandra who at the time was looking out the window, watching the passers going by. Elisa watched Sandra for a minuents before finally speaking to her.

"Why did you invite me to Dinner Sandra?" says Elisa.

Sandra looked over at her and smiled smugly." Causes I want to get know you better that's all. I mean I'm going to be working with you for a certain amount of time. So I could at least get to know you. So" she rests her elbows on the table and stared at her." Tell me a little about yourself."

"Well, basically I was born and raised here in Manhattan. I joined the force back in 85'--"starts to Elisa until Sandra stopped her with a raise of her hand.

"No, no, Sugar...says Sandra. "I mean tell me bout who you are? Do you have dreams or any goals? Where do you see yourself in the next five years." Says Sandra. "That's what I meant."

"Well."says Elisa. "I do want to become captain of the precinct someday. .." says Elisa as she looks at her.

Sandra smiles. "That's great Sug it 's good to have goals in your life. It's nice to see you have some direction in life." she smiles. "Do you have anything to ask me hun...I'm a open book."

Elisa then looked over at Sandra. "Why did Berto call out Sandy?" says Elisa.

"Well, It's actually the name of a cookie. You know Pecan Sandies...their shortbread cookies and they taste great." She snaps fingers. "I should buy you some they taste great. "she looks to see Xavier carrying some plates over to them. "Speaking of food."

Xavier nods at the to ladies and walks away. The two ladies smile at their meals and heartily dig in pausing ever so often to talk about their lives and there dreams. After dinner Sandra invited to drive Elisa home which she gladly accepted. The two ladies get into the Chevrolet and ride off into the night.

---

Elisa's apartment

April 23rd, 1990

9:35p.m

Sandra's Chevrolet pulls up in front of the young detective's apartment and Elisa gets out. She was about to walk inside her building when she stops in her tracks and looks over at Sandra. She then smiled slowly at the tanned brunette sitting in the Chevrolet with a small smile on her face. Elisa thought about letting Sandra come in for a few minuents she did buy her dinner in the least she could do was at least invite her in for coffee or something like that. After few minuents of second Elisa made her up mind and walked back over to the car.

"Hey, Sandra"says Elisa.

"Yeah, Sug?" says Sandra as she looks at her.

"Would you like to come up for a cup of coffee or something like that?" says Elisa as she fidgets a bit.

Sandra's smile just grew wider. "Sure, hun. I would love to." She then shuts off the engine and excite the car. "Let's go."

Elisa smiled and motioned Sandra to follow her inside the complex. The both of them get on the elevator and ride the lift to Elisa's floor. When the doors opened both women stepped off and walked over to her apartment door and entered. As soon Elisa entered the apartment a furry grey kitten pitter pattered over to Elisa and meowed at her. Elisa then stopped down and petted the kitty on its head softly.

"Cute, Cat." Says Sandra. "Does the little one have a name?"

Elisa then stood up again. "Yeah, I named him Cagney." Says Elisa. "Let me go make that Coffee now." He then walks off to her kitchen leaving Cagney and Sandra standing there. Elisa then turned back to them. "Oh, make yourself at home."

"Thanks." Says Sandra as she moved over to the couch and took a seat.

Cagney meowed at Sandra and scampered after her and stopped by the couch. After measuring the jumping distance it leaped upon one of the cushions. Sandra smiled at the little kitty and held out her slender hand to her. Cagney sniffed Sandra's hand and then nuzzled his small head underneath allowing Sandra to pet her. Sandra chuckled as she petted and stroked Cagney.

"Cute, cat hun." Says Sandra as she continued to pet the cat. "So, where did you adopt the little fella from?"

"Well, actually I found him." Came Elisa's voice from the kitchen." When I was coming home form a shift I found the poor thing literally starving to death near one of the apartments trashcans. So ,I decided to take him in and he has become attached to me ever since."

"You have a heart o f gold hun." says Sandra as she scratched the cat underneath the chin.

Cagney meowed and quickly leaped into the young woman's lap and meowed once more at Sandra. Sandra smiled and petted the cat some more enjoying the cat's purring and meowing. Elisa came out form the kitchen with two steaming cups of coffee in each hand. She smiled as she watched Sandra stroke her pet kitty. It seemed that Cagney really liked her too. So did Elisa she never meant anyone like Sandra before. She had that certain kind of spark that just attracts people towards her. She also has a very loveable attitude about life the world could end right here and now and Sandra would still be smiling at the end. That kind of attitude gave Elisa a warm feeling all over being close to her like this. Even though she only known the buxom Brunette for a mere three hours she has felt closer to anyone in years. Elisa shook herself from her thoughts and walked over to Sandra and Cagney with a small smile on her face.

"It seems that you two are getting along quite fine." says Elisa as she sits the mugs down.

"Yeah, we are." Says Sandra. She then observes the room. "Nice place you got her Sug."

"Thanks." says Elisa." So, Sandra you know a little about me. Could you tell me a little bit about yourself."

"Okay." says Sandra as she pets Cagney. "Well, I was born in Arlene, Texas um my mother was a school teacher. M father was an architect. I basically almost lived my whole life in Arlene. That is until I.." she sighs. "Moved."

Elisa blinks. "Move where?" says Elisa.

"Well, Sug when I was sixteen I moved around a lot since my dad was also o the move. Was in Washington for a few months and then I was in California for a short time. I finally moved here to Manhattan when I was seventeen and joined the academy a year later. Well, from there I became a cop and the rest was history." Says Sandra.

"That's nice." says Elisa." So do you have any siblings or anything?"

Sandra then removes Cagney from her lap so she can reach her coffee. She then brought it to her mulberry colored lips and blew on it once before taking a small sip. "Just a step-brother."

Elisa smile." That's good. Do you know him well?" says Elisa as she reached over for her cocoa.

Sandra said nothing and just sipped at her coffee again.

"Elisa knew she probably stepped over bounds on that question. She then quickly changed her subject." Well, um, d you like living here in NY? "

"Of course I do Sug." says Sandra regaining her beautiful smile once again. "NY is so different from Arlene so many things to see and do." she smiles. "It's my kind of a town."

"Mine too." Says Elisa. She then smiled back at Sandra."

The two women continued to drink coffee and talk for a few more hours before Sandra decided to leave since she had shift he next day. The both bid each other good night as Elisa lead her to the door and opened it for her. Sandra smiled at her one more time before exiting. Elisa then closed the door behind her and let out a sigh. Cagney leaped of the couch and pitter pattered over to Elisa and meowed. Elisa bent down and picked up Cagney and cradled the animal in her arms.

"So, what do you think Cag?" says Elisa. As she looked into Cagney's eyes. "Do you like this Sandra?"

Cagney meowed and nuzzled into her chest. Elisa then smiled contently and grinned once more. "Yeah, I like her too."

Three Months Later

Julian's Jewelers

June 15th, 1990

11:35 a.m.

Elisa and Sandra were pinned down by hail of gunfire inside the small uptown jewelers. As they traded Gunfire with two members of the Lost Boys. The gang was caught in the middle of robbery when Sandra and Elisa showed up. The dread-locked leader was about to till his men to run when two other members immediately open-fired on the two officers. But, now they lay lifelessly on the floor with a pool of blood surrounding them from where Elisa's and Sandra's bullets have struck them. Quickly the gang for Five was reduced to two. As they continued to gunfight the supposed largest member of the Lost Boys stopped down and picked up one of the store's display cases with ease while the dread-locked leader covered him. The giant then was about to toss the display case at Elisa and Sandra until there back-up arrived on scene. The giant growled and hurled the display case at the to officers. The first officer barely dodged out of the way while the second officer too k the brunt of it full force as the case hit him with the force of train and pined hi underneath his weight.

"Conway!" yells the first officer.

The slight distraction caused by the two officers let the two Lost Boys members to beat feet out the rear entrance. With Elisa and Sandra not too far behind the both of them. The chase continued to go down the small alleys and back out again into the streets of Manhattan. Both women struggled to keep up with the sprinting members as they hopped ver Trashcans and leaped over fences. Elisa soon pulled away from Sandra and gained the lead on the chase. She then chased then watched as the two men ran into another Alleyway. Elisa was about to make that turn until the roar of engine could be heard. Elisa gasped as she saw a Hyundai barreling out of the alley. But, before the car could make contact Sandra flying tackled Elisa out of the way just milliseconds before the car made contact. Both women watched as the car made a sharp right turn and speed up the alleyway and tore down the street.

Sandra then looked down at Elisa." You alright, Sug?" says Sandra as some of her brown strands fell into her face.

"I'm fine." says Elisa. She blushes a bit. "Um, would you mind getting off me."

"Sorry." Says Sandra as she got up and then offered her a hand up." You scared me there for a bit Sug."

Elisa took the offered the hand and smiles as she is pulled up to her feet. "Yeah, I have to admit that I was scared they're myself. But, I must thank you for rescuing me. But, how are we goona to tell Chavez that we let the Lost Boys get away again?"

Sandra rested a hand on Elisa's shoulder. "She'll understand hun. Come on let's go back and to the station and give the captain our report."

Elisa reluctantly nodded. "Yeah, let's."

Sandra smiled back at Elisa and slowly lead her back to the marked car. Sandra opened the door for Elisa and both of them got in and started there way back to the station. For the last few moths both Elisa and Sandra have become the best of friends ever since they started working together. They made quiet a team on the force and were very influential in helping out against some of the lesser gangs in the area. When they weren't out patrolling they were seen at The Dragon having Lunch or even dinner there. Elisa really liked being around Sandra her warm smile seems to be the only thing that could brighten her shitty days and her loyalty and friendship has gotten her throughout the worst of times. And she was pretty sure that Sandra felt the same way about her I mean she even risked her life for her. But, that's what partners do for each other. But, Elisa's feelings for Sandra were starting to go deeper than a partnership sometimes she felt warm and squishy was around her. She would do anything to be with her to be near her to touch her. She always blushes when ever Sandra touches her hand who even hugs her from time to time. She has even daydream of touching Sandra back, holding her hand and kissing her. Yes the thought of her cherry red lips meting in Sandra's in more than a mere peck on the cheek her hands

"Hey, Sug you all right?" says Sandra as she smiles at her.

"Huh? Wha?" says Elisa as she shook her head from her thoughts only to find herself in the precinct's parking lot. "Must have been daydreaming again." she thought. She then looked back up at Sandra. "Yeah, I'm fine."

Sandra smiles at Elisa." Alright hun. Come on let's go talk o the captain."

---

Captain Chavez's Office

June 15th, 1990

1:35 p.m

Captain Chavez paced around the office in her white dress shirt and grey slacks as she listens to Sandra relay her report to her about the Jewel heist that happened earlier on the day. By the looks of things she was under a lot of pressure from the higher-ups about her precinct not being able to deal with these Lost Boys and know this new gang shows up out of nowhere calling themselves the berserks. As the last of Sandra's report ended Chavez returned to her seat and sat down.

"So ,they got away?" says Chavez as she runs a hand through her short brown hair. "Terrific. These Lost Boys are starting to become a thorn in our side."

"So , what do you think we should do Cap'n?" says Sandra as she looks at her.

"We'll probably have to watch them more closely from now on. This Jewelry heist was the last straw. I mean not only do we have these Lost Boys getting away from us. Another gang is doing it too. Along with that were starting to lose ourselves in the eyes of the public." says Chavez.

"There's something we can do." says Sandra.

"I don's know Cantiago." Says Chavez. "But, I'll think of something I always do." Says Chavez.

"Is there anything else we can do for you Cap'n." says Elisa as she looks at her.

"No, Maza that's all for now." Says Chavez as She waves hand dismissingly at them ."Dismissed."

Both Maza and Cantiago rose from their seats and left the Captain's office. Chavez nods and she observes the picture of her daughter and smiles a bit a small smiles crossing over her face. She then leaned back in here chair and started to contemplate what to do next.

---

Outside of the office both Elisa and Sandra walked down the hall talking about the current situation. Basically once again Sandra is the talkative one while Elisa is silent throughout the most of the conversation. Mainly Elisa is not listening to anything Sandra is saying her mind on her own personal feelings for Sandra. Are there just partners, friends or something more? Elisa had to knowbut before she could speak Sandra walks directly in front of her.

"Hey, Sug are you sure you're okay?" says Sandra with a concerned look on her face. "You have been mopey all morning." She wraps an arm around here. "Come on Sug tell me what's wrong."

"It's nothing Sandi." Says Elisa. "It's just that I'm caught up in a few problems nothing more."

Sandra arches a brow at her. "I see. "She smiles. "Well, Sug I have the perfect way to get you off your problems."

"How?" says Elisa.

Sandra smiles. "Dinner at my place tonight."

Elisa's eyes widen with shock. Out of all the lunches and dinners that they have had together it's always ended up at her place. This is the first time she is goona see Sandra's home. But, as she looked into the brunette's blue eyes and could see the hint of mischievous in them. She mentally wondered what did she actually have planned for the both of them. Since this might be the right time to confess her feelings for Sandra she smiled back at her.

"Alright I'll come." Says Elisa. "Should I dress in something special or something like that? I mean this is the first time 'm visiting the great Sandra's home."

Sandra laughed out loud." If you want to Sug." says Sandra with a smile." I will not hold you to any special sort of dress code." She then grabs a paper and pen from her desk and scribbles down her address. She then hands it to her." Here come to this addressI'll be waiting for you."

"All right I will." Says Elisa.

"Good." Says Sandra "See you tonight Sug." She then walks off towards the locker room.

Elisa looks at the address. "Yeah, see you tonight."

---

Sandra's Apartment

June 15th, 1990

7:58 p.m

Elisa Maza stood out in front of Sandra's apartment door in her blue Jean jacket white t-shirt and denim jeans. Her fixed on the piece of paper that Sandra has given to her. Her mind was contemplating weather to go inside or not. But, Sandra is her friend and she dad promise that she would come in for dinner. But, a part of her was trying to figure out how to tell Sandra how she felt about her. I mean what If Sandra didn't like her the way that she liked Sandra? What if Sandra shuns er for feeling this way from her? But, Elisa knows that she couldn't walk around or be with Sandra without letting her knows on how she felt.

Elisa sighs. "Here goes nothing." Says Elisa as she knocked on the door.

The door opens and there is Sandra standing there in a white dress shirt and a pair of loose fitting denim jeans. A few strands of her hair hanging lightly I front of her eyes.

Sandra smiled at Elisa widely. "Hello, Sug." Says Sandra. "You're right on time. Dinner is almost ready. So Come in and make yourself at home."

Elisa nodded and walked inside the apartment. She then gasped at how nice it was. At the back of the room was a window complete with a balcony that let her look out over Manhattan. To the left of the windows was a kitchen area where Sandra was busily working at. To the right were a few paintings and a potted plant . In the center of the room was couch that was facing a 32 inch TV screen. To the left of the couch was small hallway that'll lead to the rest of the apartment. Elisa removed her jean jacket and placed it next to Sandra's Red Leather Jacket. Still astonished by the female cops surroundings.

"Nice place." Says Elisa.

"Thanks." Came Sandra's voice form the kitchen. "I decorated it myself...have yourself a seat on the couch."

Elisa then walked over to the couch and had herself a seat. She then noticed a small picture sitting on a stand next to the couch. She then reached over and picked up the picture and looked at it. It was picture of young Sandra standing with a raven-haired little boy with dark brown eyes. Elisa then pondered at the size of the kid he was already half the size that Sandra was.

"Hey, Sandi." Says Elisa as she stares at the picture.

"Yes, Sug?" says Sandra.

"How old is this kid in the picture?" says Elisa.

Sandra then came out of a kitchen and walked over to Elisa and takes the picture from her. She then stares at the picture with a reminiscent look on her face. Elisa then looks at Sandra with a concerned look on her face. Sandra then snaps out of her day-dream and looks at Elisa.

"Um, He was seven years old at the time." Says Sandra.

"God, he's huge." Says Elisa as she blinked at the picture. "She looked at Sandra. "Ever know what happened to him?"

Sandra's smile faded but she quickly regained it. "Um, hey Dinner's ready so let's clean up eh?"

Elisa blinks at Sandra. "Um, alright." she rose from the couch and followed Sandra into the kitchen. There sitting on oak table was two plates complete with candles on the plate was Gulf shrimp, scallops, New Zealand mussels, Calamari, and Andouille sausage, sautéed in a rich Creole sauce. Served over seasoned rice pilaf. The meal was accompanied by White wine. Elisa's eyes widened at the meal on her plate.

"What is it?" says Elisa.

" Seafood Jambalaya." Says Sandra." It's Hot and spicy so let me know if it's too hot for you." She then took a seat.

"Where did you learn to cook this." Says Elisa.

"Well, when I left Arlene I spent a brief time down in New Orleans. I spent most of my time in a soup kitchen in Cajun restaurant. That's where I learned how to cook most of my food." She smiles at her. "Enjoy hun."

Elisa smiles and then starts to eat the food that Sandra prepared. She was right it was hot and spicy. As the two friends continued to eat they sat there and talked about their lives. Elisa was little bit more open about her Family and talked to her about Derek, Beth and her parents. But, Sandra was very quiet about her family when ever the subject when it came up about her Family Sandra talked lightly about it but a voided the deeper questions by quickly changing the subject. Elisa once again respected Sandra's privacy and went along with the subject change. But one question was always on her mind how she was goona tell Sandra how she felt. A few hours later the two ladies were sitting on their couch enjoying the taste of Seafood Jambalaya in their stomachs. They sat there watching TV. Elisa couldn't help that Sandra 's eyes weren't exactly on the TV but they were on her. She immediately felt her face flush hot as Sandra gazed at her taking in every inch of her body. Elisa wondered if Sandra was feeling the same way about her too. She finally decided to ask her she then turned to Face her and saw the fire burning in her eyes. Sandra looked so beautiful to Elisa that way she wanted so badly to kiss her right then and there. But, Sandra took the initiative and leaned in and kissed her full on the lips very slowly. Elisa enjoyed the kiss for a few seconds before breaking away. Her eye wide with surprise.

"Sa." Says Elisa. "You just kissed me."

Sandra pouted a bit." I'm sorry, hun. But, you see there's something you should know about me. The way that I live." Says Sandra.

"What is it?" says Elisa as she tried to calm her beating heart.

:" You see. I'm gay Sug." says she then took a deep breath. "I have been that way for sometime now. " says Sandra.

"I see." Says Elisa as she got closer to her." So you like only women is that it?"

"Yes." Says Sandra. She then sighs. "But, I'm sorry for kissing you Sug I shouldn't have." She starts to tear it up. "But you know how hard it is to be around a woman like you without being able to touch you to hold you." I she turns away for m her as tears stream down her face. "I love everything about you Elisa you're smile the smell of your skin the way you move. I love you Elisa...ever since I first saw you I had a crush on you. But, now that we are this close how could I not let my feelings show."

Elisa thinks for a second. "She loves me! This is great now I can tell her how I feel." She then grabbed Sandra's chin and turned it towards her. "SandraI love you too SandiI always have and will." She leans in and kisses slowly.

"Mmmm"mummers Sandra into Elisa's mouth.

Sandra then breaks the kiss and kisses Elisa back slowly as she run her hands through Elisa's Raven colored tresses. After they break the kiss Sandra rests her brow against Elisa's while breathing hard.

"Sug"says Sandra.

"Yes, hun" says Elisa her breathing as ragged as Sandra's.

"I want you Elisamore than anythingI want to make love to you." Says Sandra.

"I want you too...Sandra." says Elisa.

Sandra kisses her back slowly while he fondles her breasts through the T-shirt for a few minuents." Come on back to my bedroom hun."

"Lead the way." says Elisa.

"I love you Elisa." Says Sandra.

"I love you to Sandi." says Elisa as she follows her lover into the bedroom.

Five Months Later

Alleyways of Manhattan

November 20th, 1990

7:58 p.m

Along the streets of Manhattan Sandra Cantiago chased the smallest member of the Lost Boys who had just stolen a rig from a young man on the street. Elisa stayed behind to radio back up. Sandra notices that this lost boy dressed different from the rest. This thief was completely covered form head to toe in clothing and was wearing large shoes. And only its eye were visible. Sandra quickly turned the alleyway and chased the punk a few feet down the alleyway until she was close enough to make a flying tackled. Sandra leapt and hit the thief with force of line backer knocking the thief of its feet. It's black baseball cap falling from its head.

"Ha, I got--offff!" says Sandra as a foot hit her with the force of a cinder block and sent her flying into the wall.

She was about to get up when a fist struck here across the jaw that almost shattered it. Sandra flew to the ground again. She then found herself lifted off the ground with ease and then tossed into a trash bin. Sandra was busy trying to shake the cobwebs of her head hen she was lifted off the ground and she thought she was staring into a golden face with glowing crimson eyes. The figure then buried its fist into Sandra and released her. Sandra dropped to the ground and rolled around on the ground holding her stomach as tears streaming from her cheeks. When the figure saw that Sandra was clearly out of it, picked up it's hat and took off on all fours down the alleyway. Sandra growled and stumbled to get up she tried to continue the chase but, those blows had already taken their effect. She dropped to the ground and held her stomach and retched a few times. Just as Elisa turned around the corner she then saw Sandra holding her stomach and retching into the ground.

"Sandra!" says Elisa as she ran over to her lover's side and held her.

"They got away again damn it!" yells Sandra as blood runs down her chin.

Elisa hushes Sandra. "It's alright backup is already on that thief's tale they'll catch that little midget." says Elisa. "But, are you okay hun?" says Elisa. "Can you walk?"

"Yeah, Sug." Says Sandra as she slowly staggers to her feet. She then clutches her stomach and groans. "Fuck"

"Come on were goona get you some medical attention." Says Elisa as she led her lover back to the patrol car and radioed for an ambulance.

Elisa hated to see her partner in pain. Ever since they have become lovers for over five months. Some people he noticed that Elisa' has become more protective over Sandra and that they hardly do anything without the other one right there. Many people have noticed this but have brushed it off since they are partners and even partner's become close at times. So, they simply shrugged it off and ignored them. Which is what Elisa and Sandra wanted. At this time No one was really that accepting of homosexuals or even working with them at this time. So Elisa and Sandra had to be extra cautious when they decided to hold hands or even kiss or fondle each other. But, that wasn't her main concern was the precinct it was her parents actually. She really wanted Sandra to meet her family but how was she gonna to tell them about her relations with Sandra. She was shaken from her thoughts when the ambulance came up and they helped Sandra into the ambulance and she rode off with her.

---

St. Peter's Hospital

November 20th, 1990

7:58 p.m

The doctor came out into the waiting area where Elisa awaited with her raven hair pulled back into a ponytail and was holding her hat. The doctor stared at the officer a moment and then looked at her.

"Detective Maza?" says the doctor.

"Yes, how's Sandra?" says Elisa.

"She's fine Detective." Says the doctor. "Just a few bumps and. She'll be okay in a few weeks but, she'll need plenty rest so she can heal properly. "says the doctor. He then walks over looks over his Shoulder. "Oh, Ms. Cantiago there you are. I was telling her about your injuries."

"Sandra!" says Elisa as she hugged her tightly.

Sandra winced. "Um, sugcould you back off a bitI'm still in pain here."

"Oh, sorry." says Elisa as she lets go. She then motions with her had as she smiles. "Come on I'll take you home."

"Thanks Partner.". says Sandra

---

Elisa led Sandra out to her car and they both got in. Elisa decided to take her straight her. But on we thing kept on lingering on her mind about Sandra meeting her parents. What will they think of her...will they like her or hate her? What will they think of there relationship what's even worse she hasn't told Sandra about her plans. She stopped at a red light and looked over at Sandra.

"Sandi?" says Elisa.

"Yeah, Sug?" says Sandra as she looks at her.

"You know how I feel about you right?" says Elisa. Her brown eyes shifted over to her.

"Yeah, I know how you feel about me Sug." says Sandra she then look concerned." Sug? Is something wrong?

Elisa took a deep breath. "Well, you know how good these past Eight months have been ever since I met you." She reaches over and rubs her knee with her hand. "I love you with all my heart Sandy."

Sandra lays her hand upon hers." I know that hun and I love you with all my heart. You are my life's blood my everything Liz." Says Sandra, "Now, tell me what's wrong?"

"Well, it's nothing at all. It's just that Thanksgiving is coming up and I want to know if you wouldyou know"says Elisa as she fumbled with the words.

"Meet your family?" says Sandra.

"Yeah. But, I'm worried because they--" starts Elisa

"Your worried because you don't know how they will react if they fin out that there daughter is gay?" says Sandra.

"Yeah." says Elisa." I can't help the way I feel about you my love. I don't know what I would do without you in my life. I want to know everybody how I fell about you Sandra even if the world doesn't know it. I ant at least my family to know about it." Says Elisa.

Sandra squeezes Elisa hand tighter. "So do I love. I love you Elisa and I will not let anything stop from our love being known to your family. I'll comer to your family's house from dinner. Should I just where my Red Jacket or jeansor dress a little fancy?" she then waggles her brows.

Elisa laughs. "No, come as you are hun." Says Elisa. "I love you Sandra. Says Elisa as she stops the car in front of Sandra's building.

"I love you too hun." Says Sandra and the both of the enjoyed a long and impassioned kiss. When they broke it they were both breathing hard and feeling hot all over.

"Probablywe should" says Elisa as she licks her lips.

"Let's do it Sug." says Sandra with a wink.

Elisa smiled at Sandra and they both ,exited the car and entered the building to indulge in the pleasure of the flesh.

---

Maza Apartment

November 24th, 1990

7:58 p.m

Elisa and Sandra stood outside the door to Elisa's parents apartment both of them clasped there hands together. Sandra had decided to bring another nice Cajun dish to help out with her parents. Elisa then looked at Sandra and pulled back some of her lover's brunette hair all the while smiling at Sandra. Sandra smiled back at Elisa and then kissed her softly on the lips. Elisa then let out a deep breath and knocked on the door. They both waited for a couple minuents and then came the sounds of a door unlatching and the door swung open slowly. Standing there was Derek maza with his haircut short and was wearing a blue N.Y.P.D t-shirt and grey sweat pants accompanied by sneakers. When he sees Elisa he embraces her tightly all the while smiling.

"Hey, sisHappy Thanksgiving!: says Derek.

"Happy, Thanksgiving Derek." says Elisa." Um, I hope Mom won't mind I brought an extra mouth to feed." Says Elisa as she motions to Sandra.

Derek then blinks at the beautiful women before him for a few seconds his mouth gaping. "Umhappy Thanksgiving"he scratched the back of his head.

"Sandra Cantiago." Says the woman." And Happy Thanksgiving...Sug. I brought my own plate if you don't mind."

"Nonot at all." Says Derek. "Momcooks a lot just in case we have some unannounced guests show up. Please come in."

Sandra walks in and smiles at Derek. "Thanks Sug." Says Sandra. She then walks in wiggling her butt a bit as she did.

Both Elisa and Derek look on with smug grins as they watched Sandra greet Beth, Peter and Diane. Derek then puled his sister aside so he could talk to her in private.

"whoa, siswhere did you find someone like her?" says Derek. "She fucking gorgeous." Says Derek as he continues to stare at her wide-eyed.

"She's my partner." Says Elisa. He then noticed that Derek was staring extra hard at her with sort of lusty look in his eyes. Derek then nudged her brother with her elbow." Hey, don't stare too hard brother."

"Why not?" says Derek. He looks at Elisa. "You have to introduce me to her. "She has got everything, perfect body, beautiful eyes nice butt and a nice" says Derek.

"Boyfriend." Says Elisa.

"Oh, well"says Derek as he sighs defeatedley. "It wouldn't have worked out anywayshe's a frigging model."

. She then lets out a sigh of relief." I dodged that bullet." She looked at Sandra." Sorry, Derek but she's mine." We'll better see if mom needs any help with dinner." she then walked off to fine her lover was in the kitchen with Diane.

"Hey, you too...what smells so good?" says Elisa.

"It's the meal that I'm cooking." says Diane. "You know...it's been a longtime that you have brought a guest such as intersting as Sandra over here."

"Thanks mom." says Elisa. "I really like Sandrashe's a good person." She looks at Sandra.

Sandra blushes." Thanks Sug." She walks over to Diane. "The turkey smells marvelous Mrs. Mazayou have got to give me the recipe."

Diane laughs and playfully swats at Sandra's arm. "Flatterer. Nut, the secret to my turkey. Just a lot of motherly love and the correct amount of seasoning." she smiles. "You two better hurry up and get washer up or you'll get no seconds for dinner."

"Yes, Mrs. Maza." Says Sandra as she pulls Elisa out of the kitchen. All the while both of them are giggling like school girls. Diane looked over at the two giggling women and just simply arched a brow at them.

As the night continued on without hitch as they whole family and Sandra enjoined the lovely meal that Diane has prepared. Basically Sandra was a big hit with the family. Everybody enjoined the young woman's anecdotes and amazing stories of her life on the road. Even Peter laughed of the story which Sandra accidentally ruined a meal for the senator of New Orleans meal. Elisa was glad that everyone liked Sandra then maybe her idea of coming out to them would work. After a scrumptious dinner everyone sat around the T.V and watched some holiday programming. While Sandra helped Diane with the desert after the meal. A Few minuents later Sandra and Diane came to with a slice of pumpkin pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. After Desert Diane sat next to peter while Sandra sat right next to Elisa and they started to eat. As everyday eat their desert Elisa kept her eyes on Sandra as to see if she wanted them to come out to the both of them right here and now. Sandra only answered by reaching over and taking her hand in hers and giving it a strong squeeze. Elisa smiled at Sandra while Sandra simply smiled back and mouthed 'I love you'. Elisa mouthed the same phrase back before finishing up the last of her pie. She gave Sandra's hand a strong squeeze before she rose uneasily from her seat on the couch. Elisa then let out a strong sigh as she made her way to the front of the room and looked upon her family and her lover. She then took a few deep breaths before speaking.

"Um, Mom, Dad, Derek, BethI have announcement to make." Says Elisa.

"What is it sis?" says Beth.

"Yeah, what s it?" says Derek.

Diane and Peter just looked at their daughter with uneasy eyes. but remained silent as they both wondered what is this announcement that there daughter had to make. Elisa felt like she was goona hyper ventilates right then and there. She looked like all those eyes staring at her probably already contemplating her fate. Elisa then started to look nervous she couldn't do this...what if they reject her...what if they hate her or disown her. She started to shake a bit and was about to just to forget about the whole thing until she saw Sandra stand up and walk slowly over to her she then walked over to her and stood by her side as well her pleasant smile never fading once. Elisa smiled at Sandra's strong strength not only, as friend but also as her lover. Elisa could slowly feel her strength returning as she looked at those sea of eyes.

"Actually, we have announcement to make." says Elisa.

"Well, what is it?" says Beth.

"Well, you guys"she took another few deep breaths. She could feel her heart trying to leap out of her throat. She was about to back down when Sandra gripped her hand and gave it a squeeze." Well, asI was sayingjeez how I'm going to put this?" she looked down once more searching for that hidden courage that resided inside of her." After taking a few more breaths she looked up. "I'm Gay."

A wave of what's and raised eyebrows went throughout the whole room. Elisa was afraid this she knew she shouldn't have told them like this but, how long was she goona wait. Until she was in her wedding dress? She then swallowed her fears once and she wrapped a slender arm around Sandra's waist and pulled her to her in a strong embrace.

"And Sandra is my lover." Says Elisa.

"Whoa." Says Beth.

"Elisa."says Derek as he stilled looked at his sister wide-eyed.

Diane was speechless but then her shocked expression turn into half of smile. "That's nice dear." She then looked at her husband. "Peter?"

Peter's face was mask of anger. He then rose up from his seat and pointed his finger at Sandra his eyes narrowed." You! You did this to my daughter you little harlot!" says Peter.

"Dad!" says Elisa.

"Quiet Elisa!" says Peter. "You did this to her. My Daughter was perfectly fine until you came along and screwed her up."

Sandra looks shocked.

Diane. "Peter please"pleads Diane.

:"No Diane." Says Peter. "Can't you see what she has done to her daughter?" he the snarls at Sandra. "I want you take your gay ass out of my house!"

"No, Dad!" says Elisa. "Sandra isn't going anywhere! I lover herand she loves me." She then walks over to her father. "And I will not some homophobic Jackass ruin this for me!"

"Elisa!" says Diane.

"You didn't always think this wayit was until." he sneered at Sandra. "She came along and corrupted you with her who knows what she could have given you!" says Peter.

"The only thing that Sandra gave me is someone to love and that's more than what any man has ever given me!" says Elisa.

"No, Sug your father's right"says Sandra. "I did corrupt you with my queer vibesI better go." Says Sandra as she walked over to the coat hanger and threw on her red leather jacket. Thanks for the lovely dinner Mrs. Maza." She then opens the door and leaves.

"Sandrawait!" yells Elisa as she runs after her.

---

Outside in the hallway Elisa manages to catch h up with Sandra. She found the buxom brunette standing by the elevator with fresh tears streaming down her face as she frantically pushed the button on the elevator. Hoping it will help the elevator's decent faster. Finally the doors open and Sandra was about to get in until Elisa grabbed her by the arm and pulled her another embrace.

"Sandradon't leave meI love you." Sobs Elisa. "I'm sorry for what my father said about you. I'mso sorry."

Sandra then held Elisa close to her." I'm sorry too hun. But, did you see the way that your father looked at mehe hated the fact that I am gay. For Pete sakes I swear he was about to haul off and strike me." she then wiped the tears form here eyes. "Sug, you know how ,much I love youbut, I can't let you risk your family over me."

"Please Sandra...I will not have anythingIf you are not by my side hun." Says Elisa. "I lose you so much Sandi.it hurts me not to hold youor to kiss youI mmmmm."says Elisa as Sandra pressed her lips to hers in a passionate kiss.

Sandra savored every ounce of honeydew sweetness that hung on Elisa's lips. Hoping that one kiss would last forever. She then reluctantly broke it as the doors open and she steps into the car and the doors slide close. "Goodbye ElisaI love you."

Elisa looks heartbroken over the fact that the woman that she will ever love has disappeared out of her life. Her blood boiled over at what caused there so called break up. Her Father. She screamed with all the anger in her heart and pounced the steel elevator doors. She then proceeded back to the apartment with a determined look on her face.

---

The Door to Peter and Diane's Apartment was flung up open and made a loud slam against the plastered wall. Everybody looked at Elisa who was literally fuming at her father. She marched up to her with the most determined sneer on her face. She then poked a manicured nail into Peter's chest.

"Are you happy now dad?" snarls Elisa." The woman that I loved more than anything in the world is now goon because of your God Damned bigotry! I hope your fucking happy!" says Elisa .She then stormed away from him.

Peter looks shocked. "Elisa"

Elisa looked back and narrowed her eyes at him." I hate you!"

With that she grabs her jean jacket off the cot hanger and left without another word leaving all the Maza's except for Derek in shock. Derek then looked backed at Peter and shook his head and then ran off after his sister.

Diane looked over at her husband. "I hope you are happy with yourself Peter." she then walks off to her bedroom and closes the door.

Peter then looks at Beth. Beth just says nothing and walks off into her own room and close the door behind her. Peter then sighs and sits on the couch and lets out a heavy sigh.

---

Elisa decide to take the stairs instead of the Elevator she ran down the steps all the while letting her tears fly freely out of her chocolate brown eyes. She ran s fast as she could to the nearest exit and out to her Fairlane. She walked over to the driver's side, opened the door, and was about to open the door when a voice rang out.

"Elisa! Wait!" says Derek as he jogged up to her. "Where are you going?"

"I'm going home to my own apartment Derek." says Elisa.

Derek saw the tears that were streaming down her face and blurring her vision. He then walked over to the passenger side. "In that condition? I don' think so." He then looked at her with concern. "Come on Sis talk to metell me what's on your mind?"

"Why did he do it Derek?" says Elisa as she grips her keys tightly. "Why did he treat Sandra that way? Why did he have to say those things?"

:I don't know." says Derek. "But, you really shocked the shit out of all us back there with that little announcement. I guess h was just going on his own emotion. I mean you know how a lot of people feel about homosexuals. They're not even comfortable around them and are prejudice against them."

"But, we know how we felt prejudice. Look at Dad and Mom. When they got married A lot of people were not so approving of mixed-race relations or even more the people of color? " She then wiped away a tear. "You remember how I was growing up being a bi-racial kid Derek."

"How could I forget?" says Derek. "The use of the words of Mixie Or being called a nigger or half a nigger almost everyday. Always running to be avoid being beat up by the upper classmen. "He then sniffs." It wasn't easy growing up back in those timesfortunately Beth doesn't haven't deal with that anymore and neither do we. But, it's still out there that hatred. Just because were different."

"Well, that's how I feel right now Derek. I feel that my dad is prejudiced against people like Sandra sees she chosen to like other woman. I mean us humans cannot choose who we love or who we don't. Our parents are perfect examples like that and so are people like Linda and John." Says Elisa.

"Listen, Elisa Dad is not prejudice he knows what we went through." He leans against the Fairlane and looks into the sky." I guess in away he's scared for you?"

"Elisa looks at him. "Scared?"

"Yeah, I mean it's one thing to be forming a mixed-race relations but to be gay also:he sighs. "Dad is just scared that something bad will happen to you if you and Sandra are found out. To be hated for your sexual preferences." Says Derek.

"Well, that's a risk tat Sandra and I are going to have to take then aren't we?" says Elisa. "I will not loose the woman that I love to prejudice to anyone."

Derek smiles and looks at her." You really love her don't you?"

Elisa nods. "Yes."

Derek then looks at her. "Then go tell dad that." says Derek.

Elisa smiles. "I will." She hugs her little brother." Thank you Derek." She then kissed him on the cheek and runs inside.

Derek smiles." Hey, um, If Sandra has non-gay sisteryou know where to find me."

Elisa shoots him a glare.

"Kidding! Kidding!" says Derek.

Elisa smiles and continues her way inside.

---

Peter Maza stands outside on the balcony of the apartment looking up at the darkening sky. He then lets out a soft sigh as he what he just said to Elisa's lover flittered through his mind. He keeps on wondering what did he say it to her he had nothing against homosexuals. But, his eldest daughter had the worst time when she was growing since she was bi-racial. It would even be worst for his little girl if people find out that she's gay. And Sandra did seem so true his little girl probably he could accept her as Elisa's Girlfriend and her lover. This is the ninety's now a days and things do change. But then again how is he goona telling his daughter and her girlfriend that he is sorry for his actions. Sandra is gone and Elisa hates himthere's nothing else for him to do. As he continues to contemplate on the situation one of the answers to the question came to him on the balcony.

"Dad?" says a voice.

Peter turns around and sees Elisa standing there. He then smiles a little bit. "Hello, Elisa."

"Listen I'm--"says both of them in unison. They then stop and they look at each other. "No, you first." Says both of them again.

"Dad"says Elisa. "I'm sorryfor my outburst. It's just that I love Sandra too much to lose her to anybody."

"I know that." Says Peter.

"For all my life I have been looking for someone to love me and she loves me for me. She makes me laugh and smile she has made me feel things that I never though possible with anyone else. And If you don't accept our loveI'll have to live with it." Says Elisa.

"I know that." Says Peter. "But, I'm scared for you and Sandra you know how people treated people like you and I because of our heritage and skin color. Now you have extra strike against you since you are gay. I'm afraid for you Elisa." Says Peter.

"Afraid of what?" says Elisa.

"That one day. Someone is goona take there hatred of homosexuals too far sand end your life or Sandra's. And Ii don't want to see two and fine upstanding young women die before their time." Says Peter.

"That will not happen dad." Says Elisa." I will protect Sandra like she will protect me.".

Peter walked over to Elisa and looks into her chocolate eyes

And smiles. "I know that." He then runs his hand through her raven tresses." My only regret is that I could not tell Sandra the same thing."

Elisa then smirks a bit. "Maybe you can.:" says Elisa.

Peter blinks. "What do you mean?"

Elisa smile grows wide. "C'mon Dad were going for a ride."

---

Sandra Cantiago sat there on her couch with snifter of brandy in one hand and the other as shifted through numerous pictures of her lover and partner. She took a sip and stared at the picture of her and Elisa at Coney Islandtheir first Actual date after their first night of making love. She smiled and took another look through the pictures and saw picture of Elisa and her at the policeman ball both dressed in sequin dresses complete with ice sparkles. She then sipped the Brandy and flipped through another picture...the one of their first Halloween together. Sandra was dressed like a knight while Elisa was dressed like a lady in waiting. She then licked her lips on the when the gallant night invade her castle. She then let out a sigh and was about to flip a page when a knock came at the door.

"Coming." Says Sandra as she put her snifter down and walked over to the door. She then opened the door and immediately found Elisa's lips pressed to hers and enclosed in a strong embrace. "Mmmm..Elisa?" she looked behind her and saw a smiling Peter. "Um,Mr. Maza?"

"Sandra"says Peter. "May, I come in?"

"UmSug." says Sandra.

"Thank you." Says Peter as he walks in. "Listen, SandraI apologize for my behavior earlier on tonight. It was wrong and justly uncalled for."

"I understand Sug." Says Sandra." You were only worried about the welfare of or daughter." She then wraps an arm around Elisa. "And, trust Me. Mr. Maza I would never hurt your daughter in anyway. Elisa, means a lot to me Mr. Maza."

"I can see that"says Peter. "If, I could do anything to make it up to you Ms. Sandra...anything...just name it." Says Peter.

Sandra smiles. "Well, I have some Earl Grey on the stoveif you would like to have a seat and have some tea with myself and Elisa."

"I would enjoy that very much." Says peter as he smiled.

"Good!" says Sandra as she smiles. "I'll go and get a extra mug." She then walks into the kitchen area.

Peter smiles at Sandra as she hurries into the kitchen. While Elisa looks at her smiling father and nudges him with her elbow.

"Told you would like her." Says Elisa.

---

A Month Later

Sandra and Elisa's Apartment

December 24th, 1990

9: 15 p.m

Elisa hung up on the last of the red and green ornaments in the apartment which she and Sandra now share together. She stepped back and admired her work pondering what else did the tree need. As she pondered on this moment she felt a pair of slim arms wrap around er waist and she let out a short yelp as she was pulled into Sandra's embrace. The both of them enjoyed a slow and lingering kiss the tender mewling of Cagney was the only thing that broke the both of them apart. Both of them looked at the small grey kitten as it tussled with a sliver of the icicles. The both of them stared at the small Cagney and smiled at it. The active Cagney was another part to Sandra's home besides Elisa. Elisa's family was very worried about the two of them being caught together but, the young couple soothed their fears. And Sandra loved both of them with all of her heart. As did Elisa but, one thing kept on tugging at her from the back of her mind. Sandra's Family. Never once did Sandra ever talk about her family or if the subject that comes up Sandra always dodges the question or gets frighteningly quite. What is it about Sandra's Family that scares her to the point of silence. Elisa had to know about this secret that Sandra is hiding from her if she wants to take this relationship to the next level. /she the broke away from Sandra's embrace and sat down on the couch. Sandra sensed her girlfriend's sadness and a concerned look graced her beautiful features.

"Sug?" says Sandra as she crossed over to her. "What's wrong?"

"Sandra"says Elisa." How long have we known each other?" says Elisa as she pets Cagney absent-mindedly.

"Nine glorious months hun." Says Sandra." She then sat down on the couch and wrapped around her." So, what is all this being all mopey is all about?"

:Well, Sandra"says Elisa. "I want to know more about you and your family. Who they arewhere they come form."

Sandra's expression saddened. "Well ,I already told you about my familyyou seen then picture of my foster bro."

"I know about him." says Elisa." But, what bout your family--" starts Elisa until Sandra gets off the couch and walks away form her.

"Please sug, don't press the subject...about it...you know how I feel about my Family." She then clenched her fists tightly.

"No!" says Elisa as she rises from the couch and crosses the room over to her. "WE are going to talk about your family." Says Elisa.

"Sugplease.." says Sandra as she started to shake. "I don't want to talk about them"she then sniffled and tears started to run down her face.

Elisa could sense the pain in Sandra's voice and saw the effect that it was having on Sandra. She immediately started to feel bad about pressing the subject. She then grabbed Sandra by her red sweater and pulled her over to her. She could see that Sandra's eyes were filled with tears and her mascara started to run. Elisa felt ten times worse than she already had felt. She reached up and rubbed the side of Sandra's Face all the while trying to soother her. She then kissed her lips lightly and tried a different approach.

"Hun, tell mewhat's wrong?" says Elisa.

Sandra then started to cry more. "Please.Sug...i don't want to tell you about them I'm so ashamed."she then started to cry.

Elisa led her over to the couch and sat the other woman down and took her hand in hers and stared at Sandra with a soft glare. She then ran her hand hands through the buxom Brunette's brunette tresses.

"Hunme." says Elisa slowly.

Sandra then looked into Elisa's eyes and saw the soft compassionate glare of the woman that loved her . She knew she could open up everything to Elisa and tell her horrible secret she has tried so hard to hide from others. She then swallowed harshly and just let out a deep breath.

"Hun.my real name is not Sandra Cantiago"she looks away." It's Chelsea Wells."

"What? You mean"says Elisa a little startled.

"Yeah Sandra never existed. I am and always shall be Chelsea Wells." Says Sandra. "I'm sorry to lie to you for so long." Says Sandra.

Elisa nods. "I s--

Sandra held up her hand. "Please let me continueI want you to know everything."

Elisa remained silent and listened to her story.

"Well, Elisa I was born to Elaine, and Travis Wells. My, Father was a well-known architect and my Mom was a High School teacher. When I was ten my parents adopted a little boy. His name was Robert Tuskidero. He had lost his mother to sickness when he immigrated here from Russia and his father died in a construction site that my father had set up. Somehow my father felt guilty about causing Robert's death so he adopted him and he quickly became a part of my family. It wasn't until I turned thirteen when my father started to drink after he got fired from a bog construction job. He could have been easily hired at other companies nut his drinking caused him to be late on many projects and after while no one wanted to hire him. That really made him angry and he lashed out at us. I can remember hearing my mom's screams as he smacked her around right in front of us. He even smacked me around a couple times. I used to cover p my bruises with long sleeve shirts and jeans to cover up the wounds. But, Tuskidero got it the worst since he would leap in and take the blows for either myself or mother. He wouldn't scream or anything when Father struck him he just absorbed the blows all the while looking into our eyes. I never knew why Robert ever did it and after Dad got finishedoh my god his back was so redRobert didn't go to school for three days because of the injuries he suffered because of us." Says Sandra.

"Dear God!" says Elisa." Why didn't you get away from such an asshole."

"We couldn'tlike it or not Dad was still making a decent a lot of money. At his job at a new construction company tha just opened up and mother didn't make enough money to support both of usso we had to remain there." She sighs." When I was fifteen I remember coming home to find my thirteen year old step brother being arrested by police for striking my father. From what Mom told me that Father was beating on her once again when Robert had enough he hauled off and truck dad in the jaw. The hit fractured his jaw and sent him tumbling down the steps." Says Sandra.

"How the hell did hell did Robert do so much damage to your dad with one punch?" says Elisa.

"Well, when Robert turn Thirteen he already was 6'2 and was built like Line backer. My Mother guessed it was because of his father's genes since he was a big man himself before he died. That and the fact that and Robert worked out a lot in Dad's old gym when he wasn't home." She sighs." After the assault my father had to have his jaw set and was on workman's comp while Robert was sent off to Juvenile hall. After Dad's jaw set he immediately disowned my stepbrother and kicked him out of the house. My guess was that he was afraid of him. I never saw Robert after that day." She wipes away a tear. "After that my Dad was free to beat on us not using the flat of his hand by his fists. One day he beat my mother so bad that she was put into a hospital for three days. When the cops arrived he told them that she fell down a flight of stairs. Then "she starts to shiver. "when I was sixteenI was alone in my house with Father. He had gotten drunk again and he made his way into my roomwhere he proceeded to touch and fondle meI tried to push him away but he beat me until I was black and blueand when I couldn't fight.he.." Sandra starts to sob uncontrollably and buried her face into her hands,

"Sandra."says Elisa.

"Nolet me finish Sug." Says Sandra. "HE raped methat bastard had taken my mother from memy little brother, and now my innocence. I remember crying myself to sleep as he drunkenly staggered out the room zipping up his pantssaying that I was a good fuck." She swallowed hardly." It wasn't until a few months later I found out that I was pregnant with his child. I never felt so ashamed in my whole life...I hated my father. A short while later my daughter was born. Thank God she was a healthy little girl. But, I knew one thing after that incident I never wanted to return home again. So, when the doctors said that I could leave I called my mother and told her that I'm not coming home. That I'm running away with my daughter...I told her that I didn't want to see my fucking father again and if she values her life she would leave him. My father wasn't proud of my decision to leave He called the police on me. I ran to the nearest bus station and used my last of my money from my part-time job to buy a ticket on a train going out of state. From that day.. Chelsea Wells died and Sandra Cantiago was born. On the train I finally came up with a name for my little girlI called her Hope Athena Cantiago. From there me and my daughter traveled from state to state. Finally coming rest in New Orleans. Where I met a wonderful woman named Karen. She took me and my daughter into her home and gave me a part-time job while I enrolled in a local High-school and finished my education. After graduating I became a full-time chef in Karen's kitchen where I learned how to cook. As I worked with Karen we started to become close and that's when I realized that I was in love with her. When I told her she told me that she loved me too and that she was a lesbian and we quickly became lovers." she let out a reminiscent sigh. Life was goodthat is until I saw my father walking in one day looking for me. I knew I couldn't stay here in New Orleansanymore especially with him looking for me. I wanted to take my daughter with mebut, I decided against it." Says Sandra.

"Why?" says Elisa. "Don't tell me you abandoned your only daughter."

"No. I left her in good hands with Karen. I didn't want my daughter to come with me since I didn't know where I was going to end up and I wanted my little girl to have a hard life that I did. So, I ran away againfinally ending up in Manhattan where I enrolled in a police academyand the rest is history." Says Sandra.

"What happened to Karen?" says Elisa. "Are yo till with her?" says Elisa with a small frown on her face.

"No, Sug." Says Sandra. "Me, and Karen broke up a year agobut we still are good friends and visit and call my daughter whenever I have the chance to. "she runs her hands through her hair and sighs. "She's a A+ student in school...which makes me proud."

"What about your mother?" says Elisa." Do you know what ever happened to her? After you left."

"Well, I called her recently and told her how sorry I was for leaving her with Dad. She forgave me for leaving her and wished secretly that she could have left with me. I told her everything about my little girl, Karen and you. She's very happy that I could find love and wishes me and my daughter the best. When I asked her about my father she said that he was killed when a burglar broke into their house and shot and killed him over a year ago. After that she started her life over with a man that loves her more than life itself and that she's pregnant with my little sister." Says Sandra.

"Elisa's eyes widened. "Good for her." Says Elisa. She then smiles. "So, when do I get to meet your daughter?"

"I was actually thinking about having her to come up and live with me this summer." Says Sandra.

"I can't wait to meet her." Says Elisa.

"Same here." Says Sandra. She then smiles." But, hey this is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. She then holds something over head. "Guesswho's under the mistle toe?"

Elisa smiles. "Well, what are you waiting for?" says Elisa.

Sandra grins and kisses Sandra and kisses her slowly and [passionately on her lips. Slowly both of them let out slow moan and continue to kiss slowly. Elisa then started to lie back on the couch almost crushing Cagney who nimbly leaped from the couch just in time as Sandra and Elisa's world disappeared into a sexual haze.

A Month Later

Alleyways of Manhattan

January 15th, 1991

9:15 p.m

Elisa and Sandra's patrol car has pulled up in front of an Electronics store where a black Hyundai was parked in front of her Electronics store. The car was riddled with bullet holes and the windows were shootout. Blood covered the passenger and driver side doors. In the back of the vechile was even more blood. Around the area where was a chalk outlining where a body lied under a white sheet which was stained with blood. Several uniformed officers were around the area keeping the public back while yellow crime scene tape covered the area. Elisa and Sandra slid out of the car and walked into the area. They spotted Officer Morgan who was walking around the Area. Both women walked up to him as they surveyed the area.

"What happened here Morgan?" says Sandra.

"Well, it seems to be a drive-by shooting." says Morgan.

"Do you know how did it happen?" says Elisa.

"Well"says Morgan. "From what witnesses told me there that a Hyundai was parked in rot of the building. Containing two males and another person was sitting in the Hyundai. When an unmarked Van pulled up and three men wearing orange bandanas opened fire on the Hyundai. The man in the back was killed instantly. The other two members leaped out of the car and d opened fire on the van. A member who was completely dressed from head to toe with clothing was shot in the shoulder. The other member which was known identified as member of The Lost Boys rushed to his fallen comrade's aid and helped the person into the alleyway. The deadlocked member traded fire with the two members until two bullets hit him in the upper chest killing him instantly. There has been no word on the condition of the other member."

"Any I.D. on the two stiffs?" says Sandra.

"Um, the man in the backseat is Daniel Brown a.k.a. Danny B. The dread locked one is Michael Bennington a.k.a. Krowe. And judging by the colors they are wearing these two were definitely members of the Lost Boys. "

"So this s gang-related." Says Sandra." Looks like The Berserks has taken the little war between them to another level."

Elisa nods." And it won't be too be long until innocents are caught in the cross-fire." Says Elisa. She looks around." Looks like there's nothing more that we can do. Should we head back to the barn.?"

Sandra nods. "Let's go.: says Sandra

Elisa and Sandra got into their car and started off to the hospital. Both women's minds contemplating on the situation at hand which is the gang war between the Berserks and Lost Boys. While on the force both of them have seen a few gang wars but none of them compare to the war that's brewing between the two aforementioned gangs. Each of them has slowly marked their own territory in Manhattan. The Berserks mostly responsible for the crimes committed in the East Village and other places. While The Lost Boys has stayed local but have started to make there way south. But now with this gang war at hand things have gotten much worse. They knew that innocents may be caught in the crossfire if a gunfight breaks out anywhere in Manhattan. And that's something they did not want. There has be someway to put an end to this feud and quickly before things become too heated. But, their concerns quickly changed from the gangs to each other being a police officer was already tough already. They fearing that one of them ma not be coming back to worse to worse.

"Elisa..."says Sandra as she stops at stoplight.

"Yeah?" says Elisa.

"You know How much I love you right?" says Sandra as she puts hand on her knee.

Elisa smiled at Sandra's touch and rests her caramel hand on her light colored one. "Yeah, I do know Sandi.."

"Good." Says Sandra as she smiles." You know Sug, I have been thinkingwe have known each other for quite a while andI was wondering if we should take our relationship to that next level."

Elisa blinked at Sandra." What do you mean hun?" says Elisa.

"I, m talking about Marriage hun." Sys Sandra.

Elisa's eyes widened." You meanyou and me together as in a husband wife sort of thing?"

" Yeah, I am Sug." Says Sandra as she increases a grip on Elisa's knee." I know this is one of the least romantic places to purposebut, I don't want to go another moment without you by my side"she looks at her out of the corner of her eye. "Sowhat is your answer?"

"I don't know hun." says Elisa. "You know that I love you with all my heart but, who would marry us if I do say yes to your proposal?"

Sandra gives Elisa one of her trademarked smirked. "I know this priest in New Orleans that does same sex marriages. We could take a month off from work head on down to New Orleans and have our honeymoon there. You can also meet my little girl also." Says Sandra.

Elisa thought about it for a second. Could they actually do thiswas she really to let everyone know that her and Sandra are legally wifewife? But, then again Elisa Cantiago did have a nice ring to it though. And they could raise Hope together right here in Manhattan. After thinking for a few minuents she finally made up her mind and squeezed Sandra's hand lovingly.

"Yes, Sandra I will marry you." Says Elisa.

Sandra just took a quick look around and leaned into Elisa and captured her lips in a quick but passionate savoring the taste on her mulberry lips. "Hun, you have made me the happiest woman on this planet."

Elisa then blushes. "Thanks Sandi."

---

Both women exited the vehicle as it pulled into the 23rd precinct a few hours later. Both women just smiled at each other all the way. As they made there to the precinct Sandra took her hand and squeezed it lovingly. Only to find it being squeezed back by Elisa.. Both of the women smiled at each other and held hands until they both entered the precinct so they could clock out on there shift. Elisa could hardly contain her happiness about being married to Sandra this was the woman that she loved. Who ever know that her feelings for another woman could be this strong.? After they clocked out Elisa spent the rest of her day in haze of what it will be like to be married to Sandra.

---

A Month Later

Streets of Manhattan

February 12, 1991

11:36a.m

Snow started to slightly fall onto the streets of Manhattan covering the tarred pavements, of Manhattan with the purest of white. People walked by bundled up wearing multicolored scarves, hats and trenchcoat/ It seemed that the city of Manhattan from a distance looked peaceful from a distance but, at K&J's Jewelry dealers it was different story. The War between the berserks and the Lost Boys is already reaching violent climax. For the last few weeks the body of the dead members started to grow while their numbers were nearly diminished. All victims of the streets of Manhattan. This time the Lost Boys and Berserks were having a shoot-out in front of a local store. It didn't take long for Officer Morgan and Officer Cantiago appeared on the scene and entered the fray. Soon, bullets from all three participants were flying around. While the innocents scattered to avoid the hail of lead bullets that whizzed by barely missing from them. Morgan and Cantiago knew their where over their heads when they first arrived and they radio back up ahead of time. Hoping that some of the units will get here before it's too late but the conditions of the roads and that's it's the middle of lunch rush hour traffic. It seemed likely they would arrive at this point in time. Both Sandra and Morgan took cover from behind the patrol car using it as a shield to protect them as they traded fire between both gangs. Sandra then rose up from her crouched position from the vechile and sent a bullet flying towards one of the Berserks. The Member scream as a crimson spray of blood splattered on the snowy surface before he crumpled to the ground lifeless. Morgan also drew a bead on one of the Lost Boys and they're as another scream as another one of them fell/ top the ground. Sandra cursed underneath her breath as she ejected another clip from handgun and slammed in another clip into the chamber. She rose from her shield and quickly too k aim at one of the gang members. But before she could even fire a bullet flew through the air and pierced her chest. Sandra let out a startled gaps s the bulleted hit her. Morgan could only watch in horror as spray of crimson erupted from Sandra's chest and she crumpled to the ground. Morgan clenched his teeth in anger and rose from his position and fired off a hail of bullets into the gangs slaying the last remaining members of the shoot out. As soon as he was done Morgan rushed to Sandra's side. He looked at the young woman who continued to lie there not moving at all. Morgan quickly rushed to her side and checked for a pulse. After thanking god she was alive he quickly went for the radio and requested for an Ambulance to come to the bloodied crime scene. Just as soon as soon as Morgan put the radio down he could hear the sounds of Police sirens in the distance. Morgan could do nothing but knelt down and grasp the woman's hand whose eyes were glazed over slightly.

"Please Sandrahold on" says Morgan as the sounds of the sirens grew louder in his ears.

---

Elisa and Sandra's Apartment.

February 12th, 1991

9:15 a.m.

Elisa Maza stepped out of the shower toweling off her rave colored mane as she walked to her lover's and soon to be wife's bedroom. For the last month both Sandra and Elisa have been saving up for they're wedding when they decided to get married o in March. As of right now that has had enough for they're wedding dresses and there rings. The only thing they had to do is to put in there vacation time and they could be of to New Orleans anywhere they will be reunited forever in Matrimony. Elisa then stopped bring her hair and opened one of the drawers of the nightstand. She then removed a small black box and opened it and marveled at the small diamond ring inside. She marveled at how the diamond sparkled and shimmered in the light of the room. She then closed the box and put it back in the drawer. She silently wished that the hands f time would increase there pace so Sandra ad herself could be married as soon as possible. Elisa the let out a dreamy smile and was about to drift off into space when the sounds of her telephone ringing rose her from her thoughts.

Elisa sighs and picks up the phone. "Hello? "

"Elisa!" came Morgan's voice over the phone. "Thank God! I was able to reach you I hate to tell you thisbut."

"What is it Morgan?" says Elisa as her voice quickly turns serious. "Please Morgan tell me"

"It'sshe's been shot and she's hurt badthe doctors say that she might not make it."

Elisa dropped the receiver to the floor. All of sudden her whole world came crashing in here at breakneck speed. As the words 'she might not make it' echoes through her mind. Already tears started to well up in her chocolate brown eyes. She then started to shake uncontrollably and sink to her knees. her mind a jumble of thoughts and questions. Only Morgan's disembodied voice was able to stir her. From her random thoughts.

"Elisa?Elisa?!" says Morgan over the phone.

Elisaslowly picked up the phone and pressed it to her ear. "Yes, I'm here MorganUm, where are you now?"

"I'm at St.Peter's Hospitalhurry as soon as you can." Says Morgan.

"I'll be there." says Elisa as she hangs up the phone and scrambles to get dressed.

---

Streets of Manhattan

February 12, 1991

12:36 p.m

Elisa's Fairlane barreled into one of the hospital's parking lots and she quickly gets out. Ignoring the driver she nearly sideswiped the only thing on her mind was Sandra. A few minuents later Elisa appeared in the waiting area of the hospital and runs or to a receptionist and slams her hand on the desk loud enough to make everyone in the waiting room to turn the head of everyone in the room. The receptionist just looked at Elisa with frightened eye at the Carmel skinned, woman who was wearing Police Academy sweatshirt and jeans.

"Where is Sandra Cantiago!" yells Elisa.

"Who?"says the receptionist.

Elisa snarled at the receptionist as her eyes narrowed. "Sandra...Cantiago" says Elisa putting emphasis on ever word. "She is a cop at the 23rd precinct...she was shot today...I need to know where she is."?

The Receptionist was about to ask again until she saw the glare in Elisa's eyes. Sh watches as her hands clawed at the desk as she tried to restrain herself from hauling off and striking her.

"Elisa!" says Morgan as he comes jogging up to her. He stops at the receptionist desk." It's okay ma'am she is with me."

"Um.okay." says the receptionist.

Morgan then took Elisa by the arm and lea her down the hallway and pulled her aside. Into the hallway. As soon as she were out of site Elisa gave Morgan the hardest glare. Morgan felt about cowering for a moment and took a few deep breaths before speaking.

"Thank goodness you made it here." says Morgan.

"What happened to her...is she alright?" says Elisa.

"She's fine the were able to stabilize her but for now she is still in critical condition. The doctor is only allowing close friends and Family members in to see her." Says Morgan.

Elisa grasped Morgan's arm tightly making him wince a little bit. "Where is she?"

"I'll take you to her." says Morgan.

Morgan then led Elisa over to the nearest Elevator and led her up to the floor where Sandra is resting. Morgan noticed that Elisa was especially distant at this point. As she he watches her lean against the sides of her elevator her eyes focused o the steel doors. Morgan silently wondered what was going through Elisa's head at the time. He was about to rest reassuring hand on her shoulder when the bell dings and the doors slide open. Both officers step off and Morgan leads her over to the room where Sandra is held. Elisa walks over to the room and peers inside. Her heart drops to see her lover in this condition. Here was Sandra lying in the bed her body hooked up to dozens of machines that all monitor her heart rate and vital signs. Elisa was about to open the door until the sounds of another parties footsteps echoed in the hallway and the sound of a voice.

"What do you two think you are doing?" says the doctor as he walked up." This is the critical--"

Elisa grabbed the doctor by his white trenchcoat and pulled him close to her and sneered in his face. "Listen buddy"she points to the door. "That is my wi--erpartner in there and if you don't let me in that god damn room right now I'll swear I'll pull your fucking spine out through you noseyou got me?!" Elisa.

The Doctor and Morgan just blinked. From the looks of the doctor he almost shit himself right then and there. He then looked over at Morgan who just nodded at him. He then swallowed audibly and looked back at Elisa.

"Sure.you can go in." says the doctor.

Elisa released his trenchcoat. "Thanks you." She then opens the door and closes it. And stomps into the room. He then walked up to Sandra and plunked herself down in the chair and stared at her lithe form and her angry features diminished. She can't believe that her loverthe woman that loved her more than life itself was in this kind of condition.. She then sniffled a bit and continued to gaze upon her. She took a slender Carmel colored hand and brushed lovingly against her forehead brushing a few strands of brunette hair off of her face. She then moved her fingers down to Sandra's hand and she gripped it tightly...silently hoping that it would give her strength enough not to break down and start to cry.. But ,she couldn't no longer there was no one there to hold her hand or make her laugh no one to cheer her up when she's sad. Or to comfort her and to tell her that everything will be okay./ The beginning of tears start to build against her inner defenses her lower lip trembled as tears quickly stained her face and she collapsed to her knees an sobbed uncontrollably.

"Oh, Sandra.." sobs Elisa. "Pleasedon't leave me...I need you in my lifeyou were the only one that was there for me hun.please don't do thisdon't dieyou have to make it Sandra.you have come so far in this you can't.--"

"Sug?" says a voice weakly.

Elisa looked up ad wiped the tears out of her eyes. "Sa?"

"Unghhhyeah it's me"she opens her eyes weakly and looks at her.

Elisa smiled back at her." OhSandra." She grips her hand tightly. "Oh, hun...I thought I lost youI better call the doctors and tell them you're alright."

Sandra smiles weakly. "Sug I have to tell you something"

Elisa's face quickly becomes serious." Hun?"

"Listen"says Sandra. "Sug,for the last few monthsas I was yourswords can not describe how much I love you hun"her breathing starts to become haggard. Elisa tried to help p abut, Sandra stops her." Hun...I love youwith all"she chuckles weakly.. "Too bad...we couldn't have that little trip to New Orleansyou would have enjoyed it"

Elisa knew what Sandra was saying nofight it.fight itDamn it!"

Sandra's barely opened eyes welled up with tears and a single tear rolls down her face." Tell my daughter goodbyeand tell Tuskierdino that I love him alsoI love you too Elisamy Carmel candy"she smiles weakly. "Goodbye." Sandra then closes her eyes as the heart monitor flat line.

Elisa's tears open up in shock. "NoTuskeridero? Sandy!"

Just then several doctors come into the room followed by nurse. One of the doctors has heart deflihibliator.

"Hurry!" says one of the doctors. "She's flat lining"he looks at Elisa. "Get out of her now!" screams the doctor.

"NO! I won't!" says Elisa.

"Officer Morgan! Get this woman out of here now!" yells a doctor.

Morgan then barges in and grabs Elisa and pulls away form Sandra' lips form. He tries to restrain the wailing police woman as she kicked and screamed like a child in a tantrum. Finally Morgan succeeded in pulling Elisa out of the room. The door slammed shut behind the both of them and the only things that could be heard is the muffled orders of doctors and Elisa's banshee like wailing.

---

Elisa paced around outside of the room fully calmed down. It took Morgan several minuents to restrain her and the small bruises on his face and body showed it. Elisa continued to pace as she awaited for the condition of her lover. The sounds of a door opening were the only thing...that broke the silence. Elisa and Morgan eyes were glued to the doctor awaiting on the condition of their fellow co-worker. The doctor looked at both of the officer's and let out a heavy sigh.

"I'm sorry"there's nothing we could doSandra Cantiago is dead." Says the doctor.

"No she can't be"says Elisa who was on the verge of tears.

"I'm sorry"says the doctor. "there's nothing we could do" he then walks away.

Elisa felt like she was about to fall that is until Morgan laid a hand on her shoulder. Elisa then let out a wail of agony.and then clung to him sobbing and shaking controllably. Morgan just stroked her Raven hair and continues to hold her. As she continued to sob.

"I know Elisa...I knowI miss hertoo." says Morgan.

How do I say goodbye to what we had?

The good times that made us laugh

Outweigh the bad.

I thought we'd get to see forever

But forever's gone away

It's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.

I don't know where this road

Is going to lead

All I know is where we've been

And what we've been through.

If we get to see tomorrow

I hope it's worth all the wait

It's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.

And I'll take with me the memories

To be my sunshine after the rain

It's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.

And I'll take with me the memories

To be my sunshine after the rain

It's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.

---

Elisa's and Sandra's apartment was followed closely behind.

February 14, 1991

2:36 p.m

Elisa walked into her apartment wearing her police officers uniform her raven hair tied back into a ponytail. She was followed by Captain Chavez who was dressed in the same attire. Elisa just let out a heavy sigh and sat on the couch. Chavez simply closed the door

Behind them and let out a simple sigh. She saw the condition that Elisa was in she also decided to take a seat on the couch. Chavez looked over at Elisa desperately trying to think of something to say. Out of all the other officers Elisa has taken Sandra's death the hardest she has been a literal ghost for the past few .days. It seems that when Sandra died that fire...that spark she always used to have seems to have been snuffed out indefinitely

Chavez then looked at Elisa one more time. "Elisa?" says Chavez. "Are you alright?"

"Yeah"says Elisa defeatedley. "You want...anythingsome tea perhaps?"

"I'm fine, Elisa." says Chavez. "I want to know if you're alrightfor the last few days you have been very depressed and I worry about you." She lays her hand upon her shoulder. "Listen, know how much Sandra meant to you"

"I don't want to talk about!" says Elisa as she pulled away form the elder woman's touch. "I don't want to talk about her! I can't believe she left herself behind she left me all alone"she rose from the couch and walked away her head hanging low.

Chavez rose from the couch. "I know how you feel Maza! Don't you go thinking it that I haven't lost people that I have cared about! You already know how I felt after losing Carlos"

Elisa nods. "I know Captain but it hurts so fucking much every time I think about her my heart aches. It makes me wish that I was there for here to protect her from being shotor at least join her in death."

Chavez then looked at Elisa Quizzically. "Elisa"she walks over to her and rests a hand on her shoulder. "Exactly how close where you and Sandra?"

Elisa is silent. She looks into the other woman's green eyes and sighs and looks away form her. "If it's okay with you I rather not say"

Chavez takes her hand back. "I understand what happens in your private life is none of my business. But, you can't beat yourself up over this Mazait isn't healthy."

"But, when will the pain go away Captain?" says Elisa. "I can't handle thisI–"

Listen,..' says Chavez as she walks around to the front of her. "Take a couple weeks off to give yourself sometime to think all right? I f you need more time just ask for it chica. But for now you need time to mourn and after you're done with that. Come and talk to me...ok?"

"Yeah, I will"says Elisa. "Thanks, Captain."

"Your, welcome." Says Chavez. She checks her watch." I have to get back on shift but if you need me for anything just call alright." She hugs Elisa once before walking over to the door. "Take care Chica." She closes the door behind her.

Elisa lets out another sigh and then slowly walks to the bedroom and sis on the bed. She frees her hair of the pony tail and lets her raven locks from their prison. She then reaches into the nightstand and pulls out the engagement ring that she got from Sandra and she immediately felt the urge to cry to well up inside of her. She then closed her eyes and simply put the ring away and closes the drawer as she grew disgusted of the look. Why have a ring if there is no one's finger to put it on'? She then looked at the last picture of herself and Sandra it was both of them at New Year's eve party. Sandra was dressed in a beautiful little black dresses they went to there was one of those ck dresses. While Elisa decided to wear a suit this time with a fake mustache. The party was one of those fancy masquerades where everybody dressed up in costume. She then held the picture close to her heart and started to so softly as she felt the lump in her throat. She then laid down on the bed and curled up on the bed sobbing off her, friend partner and lover. Knowing that she will never be back in her life again. She curled up a bit more into the fetal position and continued to cry until she fell into a deep and restless slumber.

Epilogue:

Two weeks later.

23rd Precinct

February, 28th 1991

3:45p.m

Elisa Maza walked into the police station much to the surprise of her fellow officers. She looked at all of them as she wore her black t-shirt and blue jeans.. She then waved weakly to all of them before heading along he way. The only reason why she is here cause she heard of the news of the arrest of The Lost Boys last surviving member who calls himself Tusk'. He is basically facing criminal charges for his crimes at the end of the week. Which lifted Elisa's heart a little bit at least seeing someone pay for there crimes was enough to rouse her from her depression maybe this stupid gang war is coming to an end. She then found herself in Captain Chavez's office and she wrapped lightly on the door a few times.

"Come in." says Chavez.

Elisa then opened the door and slowly walked in. "Um, Captain"says Elisa.

"Ahhh, Maza it's good to see you." says Chavez. "Have a seat."

Elisa nodded and sat in the leather chair of her office. She watched as Captain Chavez finished up her reports. After dotting the last I she steeples her fingers and looked over at the detective with her green eyes that gazed upon her with concern.

"So, how are you feeling?" says Chavez Solemnly.

"A little bit better." says Elisa. She then looked up at the captain. "You said you wanted to speak to me?"

"Well, as you already know you have been working here for over five years and has some outstanding accoma--"

"Please Captainjust get to the point." says Elisa.

Chavez blinks. "Elisaare you alright?"

"YeahI'm fine Captain." says Elisa. "Go on."

"Well, I'm here to tell you that you are now longer a officer on the beat. You are full fledged detective. Congratulations."

"Thank you captain." Says Elisa with a defeated tone/

"Maza if you want another few days off.." says Chavez.

"No, Ma'am." says Elisa." The quicker that I get back on shift the less I get to think about Sandra." Says Elisa as she rose from her chair. "When do I start?"

"Right nowif you--"starts Chavez.

"Fine." says Elisa as she rose from her seat and promptly left Chavez's office and clocked in. She then walked over to empty oak desk and sat down...she lied back in the swivel chair and closed her eyes all of a suddenly a officer's voice rose over the chatter of the squad room.

"What?! What are you saying?!" screams the officer into the phone." Uh-huh.there located at old warehouse in the Newberg District. Okay, and who are you..?,,Hello? ! Hello!?" says the officer.

Elisa looked at the officer next to her as he continued to speak into the dead link for a few minuents. Theo officer hung up the phone." We got'em!"

"Got who?" says Morgan.

The officer grinned." One of the berserks own just ratted their gang is outThere staying at this address."

"Well, what are you sitting on your asses for?" says Chavez as she stands at her office door. "Go and get them."

The officers nodded and started to leave. Elisa then contemplated the thought of going with them. But, then gain like she needed a second thought she left among the officers hoping in some way to complete her vengeance for the death of lover.

---

Abandoned Subway

February, 28th 1991

3:45p.m

Several 23rd precinct cars pulled up in front of the entrance to the abandoned subway station with their sirens blaring. All the cops were about to get out until they saw what was there. From the looks of it another precinct has beaten them to the punch. As several cars marked with the 24th precinct, were already there. From the looks of it looked like a veritable war zone here. The remaining members of the Berserks or what was left of them were all being bagged up. Most of the officers gagged as they watched an officer from the 24th precinct zip up a body bag on a punk who was just disemboweled.. Standing there was a 7'0 man w/ platinum blond hair and a clean shaven face. Standing besides him was another woman who was quiet a beauty as her butt-length Crimson colored hair blew in the wind. Elisa's car pulled up and she stepped out and gasped at the sight. She then growled at the officers. this was supposed to be their bust. Elisa walked up to one of the officers and quickly questioned him.

"Excuse mewho is in charge here?"

The officer pointed at The man and woman. Elisa nodded and marched up to both of them a definitive curl in her lip. She was about to speak until the woman with the crimson hair turned around.

"Who are you?" says the woman sternly.

"I'm Elisa Maza of the 23rd precinct.who the hell are you?"

" I'm Detective Exces." says the woman. "And the tall handsome gentleman to my right is my partner Detective Raymond Youngford."

"Alright, not that you have introduced yourselves could you please tell me how the hell you got here first?"

"We got a tip from a anonymous caller that gave away the Beserkser's hideout. When we got here we found the place like this. But unlike you we were able to nab the suspect." Says Exces

Elisa looked as and gasped as she saw the last member of The Lost Boys being shoved into a police cover the member's clothes covered in blood and gore. Elisa then growled at the two detectives and just simply walked away from them. She hopped into her Fairlane and drove back to the police station.

---

Elisa Maza simply walked into the police station's locker room with a defeated look on her face. She walked over to one of the room's benches and sat down. As soon as she did she started to cry. Now she has completely lost everything her friend, here partner, and soon to be wife. Even her vengeance against the bastards that took Sandra's innocent life away form her was denied. She let her anguished cries echo throughout the empty locker room her bre3ath coming out in ragged sobs. Finally she could not take it anymore she had to end her pain her suffering. She reached for her shoulder holster and pulled out her 9mm she then placed the cold steel barrel against her head all the while trying to hold back her tears. But, before she could she started to hesitate and beads of sweat started to form on her forehead but her last vestibule's of her fear was swept away when her determination kicked in. But, before she could squeeze the trigger a familiar voice rang out in the empty room.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you?" says a voice.

Elisa looked ands saw Captain Chavez standing there at the other end of the locker room. She watched as the older women walked towards her.

"What do you mean?" says Elisa.

"I mean you about to blow your brains across the floor in this locker room." Says Chavez.

"I can't take it anymore." Says Elisa. "I have lost everything now, I lost my friend, my partnerthe only person who could actually make me smile or laugh, or with one of her smiles she could lighten up my whole daynow that she's gone"she sniffs. "What is there left to do?"

"And you think by killing yourself is going to help anything?" says Chavez as she stared into the detectives chocolate brown eyes. "I know how much Sandra meant to you she meant a lot to all of us but this is not the answer Elisa."

"It is for me."says Elisa as she started to squeeze the trigger slowly.

"Ah"says Chavez. "So you are being selfish then. "she then sat down on the bench.

Elisa looks at Chavez wide eyed. "What?"

"Do you really think that killing yourself will help you? Did you ever once think about the other people that care about you? Like your Parents or your brother or sisterhow do you think Beth or Derek feel is they find out that there older sister took her life so selfishly? But, then again if you do not care about them at all go ahead and pull the trigger chica" says Chavez.

Elisa looked into Chavez's green eyes and by the stern stare it proved that she was not fooling around. Elisa started to pull the trigger again but all of sudden she could she started to sob again and she dropped to her knees sobbing hysterically the gun clattering to the floor next to her. Chavez immediately went to her side and held the detective in her arms and rocked back and forth all the while stroking her Raven locks.

"I'm sorry"sobs Elisa. "I just I miss her so fucking muchI don't know what to do anymore."

"Do not worry Chica we'll get you some helpI promise." Says Chavez.

---

Six Months Later.

23rd Precinct

August, 6th 1991

9:35a,m

Elisa Maza walked into the 23rd precinct with a smile on her face. It has been six months after Sandra's death. This is the first time has ever seen the raven haired detective in a long time. As soon as they saw her came in a round of hellos and firm hand shakes went around the room. Elisa smiled back at the warm reception she received and greeted every with the same enthusiasm as they did for her. After greeting everyone she slowly made her way into Captain Chavez's office. She slowly entered the room and watched as Chavez finished up some paper work. As soon as Chavez saw Elisa she smiled and waved at Elisa.

"So, how are you feeling Maza?" says Chavez.

"I'm feeling a lot better now." says Elisa with small smile.

"That's good." Says Chavez." So are you feeling good enough to get back into the field?"

"Yes." says Elisa.

"Good. Well, take it easy though it is your first day back." Says Chavez.

"Yes, Ma'am." says Elisa.

"Dismissed detective." Says Chavez.

Elisa smiled and walked over to the door and opened it. She paused and looked back at the Chavez. "Um, Captain"says Elisa.

"Yes?" says Chavez.

"Thank youfor being there for me when you did." says Elisa.

"Your, welcome Elisa." says Chavez.

Elisa smiled once again and exited the Captain's office. Once outside she walked down the hall to the women's locker room and entered it. She walked past some of the woman and let out a simple hello here and there. Eventually she stopped at the place where herself and Sandra first met. She then let out a small smile and looked at Sandra's locker. She then ran her hands up and down the locker's cold exterior for few minuents. She then noticed there wasn't a lock on the door. She opened it up and gasped at what she saw inside. Sitting there on the coat hooks was Sandra's Red Leather Jacket. She slowly removed the Jacket to the coat hook and held it close to her as memories of Sandra passed through her mind. She then slowly slipped into the Leather Jacket and found out that it was a perfect fit. She smiled once more before zipping up the jacket halfway and smiled. She slowly walked out of the locker room enjoying the warmth the jacket gave her as if Sandra was still beside her. She deftly walked out of the locker room .She made her way out of the police station and looked up into the sky as cool wind blow her hair back.

"Goodbye.Sandra." says Elisa before proceeding to her car.

---

Present Day.

Elisa was shaken from her thoughts when she heard the rustling of leather winds land behind her She turned and saw her lavender giant standing there. Her eye opened wide at the fact that Goliath was here when she never told him of their whereabouts.

"Goliath?" says Elisa. "How did you"

"Your mother told me you would be here." rumbles Goliath. He then walks over to the tombstone and looks at it. "So, this is where Sandra lays?"

"Yeah,.." says Elisa as she looks down at the tombstone. As the wind whipped through her hair." Listen, Goliath, I'm sorry If I didn't tell you about before...but.."

"I understand." says Goliath." Diane told me how close the both of you were." He looks at Elisa with concern. "She must of have been real special to you."

"Yeah, she is"Says Elisa. She is silent for a few seconds. "Listen, Goliath even though we are together now and will be married in few months there are some things you should know."

"Which are?" says Goliath.

""You know how much I love you big guy...and I know you feel the same way but–"

"Sandra will always have a place in your heart. No matter whom you love." says Goliath.

"Yeah"says Elisa. "I'm sorry Goliath."

"It's all right Elisa. Everybody holds flame for a loved one that they have lost. I must admit to you though that somewhere inside of me admits that I have some compassion for DemonaI will never forget who I am with now." Says Goliath. He then looks at her. "And that is with you.."

Elisa smiles a bit. "As, I am with you." says Elisa as she takes her taloned hand in hers.

Goliath smiles at her. "Shall I take you home?"

"No, I actually drove here. But, I'll meet you back at the castle...okay?" says Elisa.

Goliath nods and walks back to the nearest wall and simply scales it. He then catches an updraft and glides off into the night. Elisa watches her lover and future husband for few more minuents and turns back to Sandra. She then kneels down and places the roses at Sandra's grave.

I long for the warmth of days gone by

When you were mine

But now those days are memories in time

Life's empty without you by my side

My heart belongs to you

No matter what I try

When I get courage up to love somebody new

It always falls apart cause they just

Can't compare to you

You love won't release me

I'm bound under ball and chain

Reminiscing our love as I watch four season's change

Chorus:

In comes the winter breeze

That chills the air and drifts the snow

And I imagine kissing you under the mistletoe

When springtime makes its way here

Lilac blooms reminds me of the scent of your perfume

When summer burns with heat

I always get the hots for you

Go skinny dippin' in the ocean where we used to do

When autumn sheds the leaves the trees are bare

When you're not here it doesn't feel the same

Remember the nights when we closed our eyes

And vowed that you and I would be in love for all time

Anytime I think about these things is shared with you

I break down and cry cause I get so emotional

Until you release me I'm bound under ball and chain

Reminiscing our love as I watch four seasons change

Chorus

This loneliness

Has crushed my heart

Please let me love again

Cause I need your love to comfort me and ease my pain

Or four seasons will bring the loneliness again

"Goodbye Sandi.." says Elisa before walking off.

Elisa then exits the graveyard and kindly thanks the guard for letting her in. She hops into the Fairlane and rides off to the Eyrie tower. The Guard watches Elisa leave and is about to close the gate to the cemetery until a black van pulls up. He watches as large man steps out of the back of the van. He is wearing an Italian suit and has raven black hair. He then walks over to the side of van opens the door. A ten year old girl hops out of the van and stands next to him. She is followed by a seventeen year old girl who is dressed in High Scholl Uniform. Her long brown hair and blue eyes shining with intelligence. Finally another woman steps out of the van. Her long blond hair tied into a French braid and she is dressed in a long sleeve nylon shirt and carpenter jeans. The guard watches as the large man stoops down and picks up the ten year old girl and puts her on one of his massive shoulders. Once already the small group walked towards the guard with determination.

"Um, may I help you?" says the guard.

"Sure, Darlin'." says the seventeen year old. "I'm here to see my mother"

To be continued

Praise or flames? E-mail me at tjarred@hotmail.com