A/N: My plot bunnies have returned with a vengeance. This is my first T-rated story, and it is that way for a graphic scene that will take place in (most likely) chapter three. Much thanks to Liffy for allowing me to use one of the storylines. Reviews are welcome and always appreciated. Enjoy!

THE MORNING AFTER - CHAPTER 1

Dusk had finally enveloped the city, and the usual noise of the roads dwindled to a low hum as the residents of New York settled down for the night. The sun had nearly set, and it created a magnificent scene of red and orange rivers that flowed through the sky, streaking off into eternity. A light breeze to the spring air complimented the wondrous sight.

Inside the Crime Lab, it was rather quiet as people started to turn in. Lindsay Monroe, however, was focused on getting some paperwork finished. The young woman shuffled through reports, nimble fingers striking the keyboard with amazing accuracy. She was growing tired after a long day but wanted to get everything done before she retired for the evening.

Danny watched her from the doorway, a smile playing on his lips. Her hard work ethic was one of the many reasons why he loved her so much. She was beautiful, intelligent, funny, caring…the list was endless. They had been dating for several months now, having revealed their relationship to the team only a few days after moving into the new quarters. Danny was relieved that the walls had finally broken down between him and Lindsay. He had spent two years chasing her, never once giving up even when it seemed that all hope was lost, and he couldn't be happier.

Sneaking up behind her, Danny snaked his arms over her neck, running a thumb gently along her collarbone and pressing his lips to her cheek. Lindsay immediately jumped, but relaxed when his thick Staten Island accent rang in her ear.

"You work too hard, Montana. Give your body a break once in a while."

Lindsay felt her skin explode into goosebumps. Danny's touch often had that effect on her. "I just want to finish this before I leave."

Danny kissed her neck. "How about we go out for dinner tonight? We haven't done that for a while."

Despite not being cold, Lindsay shivered slightly. "Sounds refreshing, especially after the week it's been. Hectic isn't the word. Sometimes I think the killers plan these things."

Chuckling softly, Danny swiveled the chair around so they could see each other. Her features never ceased to amaze him. She had creamy skin with a few sparse freckles, a cute button nose, and beautiful chestnut eyes that reflected the sunlight perfectly. He always lost himself whilst staring into them, soaring off to some unknown paradise.

With a brilliant smile, Lindsay cupped his cheeks in her hands and returned the kiss, indulging herself in his taste. Pulling away after a few moments, she rested her forehead against his. "I could do with a little walk in Central Park, Messer."

Danny winked cheerily. "Anythin' for my girl."

They embraced warmly, and as Lindsay's arm wrapped around his shoulder, she noticed a faint mark on her bicep. Not wanting Danny to see it, she broke the hug and pulled down her sleeve in one swift motion. Danny, too excited for the date, failed to notice the odd behaviour.

"Get ready for an unforgettable night, Montana."

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A full moon hung over the Park as the two young CSI's walked hand-in-hand along the stone path. It was a cool evening, and Danny displayed his chivalrous manners by offering Lindsay his jacket. She immediately warmed up and squeezed his hand gently as they made their way in silence, each deep in their own thoughts.

Both had come a long way in the three years they had known each other. Danny was no longer a hot-headed kid; he had matured greatly since meeting Lindsay. She kept him level, her quick wit often catching him by surprise, and was wise for one so young. She had taught him about love and innocence, and that no one should ever let go of hope. Danny felt that life now had a meaning. Before Lindsay came along he would just get up, go to work, and come back home to an empty apartment. There was no structure to his routine. But now he took his time in the morning, often watching her sleep for a few minutes before realizing he would be late. He loved to watch her chest rise and fall steadily as her eyes flickered in their sockets, a sign that her mind was carrying her off to strange dreamlands. He looked forward to returning home at night, especially when Lindsay got off earlier than him. When she was pressed up against his chest, his strong arms around her waist and holding her close, her heartbeat pulsating through his skin and into his veins, he felt as if no one else existed in the world but them.

As they continued walking, Lindsay stole a glance at Danny, who shifted his cobalt gaze to her. His piercing eyes were so riveting; they bore into her spirit without even the slightest effort. She was glad that he had seeped through the barrier she had built around herself, slowly inching his way into her heart. Despite resenting him at first, she had quickly grown accustomed to his charming smile and luscious accent. He had helped her overcome her fears, and for that she was grateful. Never could she imagine a life without Danny; there would simply be no point to it. She loved waking up next to him (something she had dreamt of for a long time), feeling his thumb caress her shoulder, feeling his kind words shimmer through her entire body like a never-ending ripple. Through him she had learned to heal and trust, and to her he was her pillar of strength, not the other way around as he often said. Her life meant so much more now that he was in it.

They stopped at their favourite place in the park: a sizeable pond situated in the south-east corner, under the cover of a massive willow tree that sprang up from the earth. The overhanging branches created a green blanket of safety and peacefulness, and Danny often leaned against the trunk and allowed Lindsay to rest against him. This night was no different.

Lindsay placed her ear to his chest, smiling as his heartbeat reverberated in her ear. The enormous tree stretching high above the pond, and the image of countless leaves dancing on the water's surface, made out to be like a protective mother watching over her beloved child. It was pure bliss, and Danny's whisper made the moment even more special.

"I love you."

"I love you too."

Neither knew that a dark shadow was creeping up on them from just beyond the horizon.