"I tried to be strong for Sara, but I was so scared Kate," Alexis blurted out, after a minute. Kate remained silent and waited for the young girl to continue. "It's just that I've never been scared like that. I was always worried about something happening to my dad, but I've never been in any kind of danger. After all I grew up in NYC."
"If we expected danger Alexis, we'd never live. I would never chase a suspect, arrest a ring leader, or draw my gun," Kate told her.
"What if it happens again? These guys could figure out who my Grandfather was, someone else can too," Alexis told her in a rush, the thought obviously bothering her for a while.
"They might sweetie," Kate confirmed, her voice soft and honest. "The difference is that you have the entire NYPD willing to turn the earth upside down if necessary. Not to mention a father who flew across the world, hired a killer, drained his bank account, and broke into their hide out just to get you back." Alexis just watched her for a while. "Alexis your Dad would give up his life for you if it meant you'd be safe," Kate told her gently, reaching across the table to place her hand on top of Alexis'.
"I know, it's just that there is no guarantee it won't happen again, and I'm still so scared, every time a cab stops in front of me, every time I hear someone yell. Every time my dad comes home early from the precinct and I don't expect to hear foot steps," She listed, tears sliding down her face. Kate's heart broke for the girl.
"You're right Alexis, there is no guarantee it won't. But," Kate stopped until Alexis was looking into her eyes. "But, there is no guarantee it will happen again. Just like I can't guarantee I won't get shot again. But for me living is more important than being afraid." Alexis wiped at her eyes as Kate spoke.
"I guess I can't stay inside and hide from everyone and everything can I?" Alexis teased.
"You could try it, but your Dad might drive you crazy," Kate told her giving her that 100 watt smile.
"Are you going to tell my Dad we talked?" Alexis asked, realizing that it was getting late.
"Yes, but I am not going to tell him everything. I won't keep secrets from him," Kate told her honestly, as she laid cash on the table and stood up. Alexis mimicked her actions and stood with her.
"I can live with that," Alexis told her smiling. "Thank you Kate, I didn't know who else to talk to." Alexis told her as they embraced.
"Anytime Alexis," Kate responded letting her go. "Lets get you a cab back to school, and I have to get back to your father before he thinks I'm cheating on him," Kate winked, and wrapped a loving arm around the girl as they walked toward the street.
