A/N: So, when I did the shuffle challenge, I was given a plot line I couldn't help but try. Plus, any issues I would have with characters would be explained because of the slight AU-ness. As a warning, there is no Juliet in this just because when I wrote the first chapter, I forgot to throw her in. So she is staying out in Florida and if you want to, you can imagine this occurs between when Lassie's ex-partner/girlfriend leaves and Jules arrives. I'm going to stop rambling now :D

Beta: TalaDentro because is wonderful and beautiful and awesome and the only person I know that will willingly comb these things for my mistakes and then tell me they are publishable. I'm rambling again, aren't I? (Taladentro: Yes but I don't mind so much this time.)

pineapple-flashback

pineapple-letter/note/text message

Prologue

1989

"Dad! I got a B on my report!" I shouted as I ran into the house. I went from room to room, looking for any sign of my dad. Mom was at work, so she would have to wait to see my awesomeness. I didn't see a sign of my dad in the living room or the garage. But I did find something when I entered the kitchen.

A note and light footprints to the basement door. I opened the note and read it, confusion spreading through me with each word.

Henry,

I still love you. But right now, I feel more love coming from my work than I do from you. We both know you're married more to the precinct than you are to me. Have been for awhile. Take care of Shawn. He needs you.

I love you.

I touched her signature at the bottom of the page while fighting back tears. My mom had left. I knew it was coming. For awhile now. The things my dad taught me worked perfectly. Even when I didn't want them to.

I set the note down on the table and walked to the door of the basement.

"Dad?" I called. My voice wasn't weak or shaky. Just quieter than usual.

"Shawn? That you?" his voice came back, slightly slurred.

"Yeah. It's me." I replied.

"Come down here. I want to show you something."

I walked down the stairs, making the biggest mistake of my young life.

A/N: Continue? Yes or No? Leave a comment please!