A/N: Wow. I know it's been a while and I'm so sorry. I have had so much of what I'm about to post written for so long but I've debated on whether or not to post at all. A recent health issue has thrown me off my game but I credit CharlieTheCAG with encouraging me to go ahead and throw out what I've written just to keep the story moving forward. This is raw and (I cringe) not really edited all that much to my usual read throughs for grammatical errors and such. I'm sorry for that… I tend to write off the cuff in long prose i.e. word vomit and then go back and break up into chapters, cut the fat, etc., so what is to follow are three long chapters. I'm hoping the last, while not finishing where the story was going in my mind, will offer a little closure as it stands.

THANK YOU! I probably should've led with that because the interaction with you guys, your kindness has meant the world and it's been a fantastic ride for me. I appreciate each and every one of you so SO much. The only reason I'm posting is because you all have been so AMAZING in your feedback, follows, PMs, that I am so humbled and thankful. Hearing from all of you has made writing such a fun experience and worthwhile. I will miss it for sure as I go away for a while. So thank you for those that have joined me on this journey and the others I've written. Love to you all from the bottom of my heart and the best for the future!

As always, I would love to hear from you if you have the time.

"Holy shit!" Jane hissed under her breath again and again as she parked in front of the lit up lake house, glancing toward the doctor in the passenger seat to make sure she was still asleep. They had been driving a little over an hour and a half thanks to traffic for the Sox/Cards game being played at home, following instructions Korsak had pre-programmed into the GPS. Boots crunched against the crushed gravel drive as the detective fished out the burn phone Frost had given her with pre-programmed numbers. Hitting speed dial one, she waited.

"Janie?" The detective could feel Korsak's relief over the tinny speaker. "You and the doc got there safe? No tails?"

Jane couldn't help the smile at her mentor's concern. "Um, yeah, we're fine but daaammn, Korsak. How did you even swing this place? It's amazing! Puts that fishing shack to shame and I wouldn't mind you letting Frost know."

The chuckling across the line was broken a bit by static, "Oh. Uh, Melody helped me out. When the Yoga studio fell through she got hooked up with this real estate guru and well… as you know, she can sell the shit out of anything 'cause she's full of it herself. She works in high end rentals right now… catering to the rich and discrete. Let's just say she owed me one."

Letting her former partner off the hook, Jane smiled. "Thanks, Korsak. It's perfect. I know Maura will love it… when she comes around. I gotta go. I want to unload everything before she wakes up." The detective could practically feel the unasked questions. "She's okay. So far so good I think. Thanks again, Vince. Call in around 10a, yeah?" Confirming the scheduled check time, Jane grabbed every bag she could possibly carry before striding up onto the porch, finding the key hidden underneath a pot of mums as directed.

Shoving the door open, the gasp was uncontrollable. The house was built on an open floor plan and Jane could see straight through a living area to the modernized kitchen and beyond; the entirety of the back wall was glass which offered a superb view of Lake Massabesic during daylight hours no doubt. The huge television mounted above the open hearth fireplace was another draw as the lanky detective found her way to the master suite. Dropping her burden with a thud, dark eyes took in the king sized bed and the sliding glass door to the right leading onto the deck, noting the double doors to the left that had to be the bathroom. Throwing the covers back on the bed, eager strides pushed through French doors, left hand groping for the switch. Flipping the lights on, Jane couldn't believe her eyes at the opulence. What she could only identify as imported Italian tile graced every surface… from the sunken, gigantic tub to the ridiculous walk in shower. Even Maura's bathroom looked small in comparison… not that she would ever say so. Maura.

Stowing the last of their bags in the house, Jane took a moment to crouch by the opened passenger door, brows creasing. Maura looked so peaceful… so still that it unnerved the detective. Two fingers reached out to shakily find a steady and healthy pulse with a laugh. "Oh thank god I didn't kill you. Come on, let's get you to bed, sleepy head." Carefully draping a slack arm around her neck, Jane's hands slid underneath the doctor's back and knees, lifting with her legs, easily carrying the unconscious woman up the front steps and into the great room before depositing her gently on the left side of the large bed. Blowing a strand of hair away, Jane stood hands on hips and watched the sleeping woman for a few minutes. "Okay, now you're just being a creeper." Glancing from the double doors of the bathroom and back to Maura, teeth worried a lower lip. "Hey, Maur. You awake?" It was barely more than a whisper. "Hey. Psssst! Maura, Jo Friday ate your shoes… the ones that look like a hideously expensive snake had to die for them." Deciding to take a chance, she grabbed a duffel and dashed to the shower for a hasty rinse.

Standing naked under the multiple shower heads, Jane thought she might have possibly died and gone to heaven. Stretching fully under the pulsing hot spray, the lean detective groaned as muscle pulled against bone, knots elongating and unraveling. "Oooohhh. My. Goooodddd." Dark curls parted in soppy rivulets as the detective's head dropped forward allowing the water to pound against the tense cords of her neck. Reaching for the shampoo sample, Jane popped the cap and sniffed before working it into her hair. Unfortunately, now wasn't the time to linger and enjoy; she needed to get back and check on Maura and Detective Jane Rizzoli was a master of the quickie shower… shaving included.

Now standing wrapped in a plush, huge towel, Jane stomped and cursed. She had grabbed the wrong bag, obvious by syringes and rolls of gauze and tape spilling out. Peaking around the door, a worried gaze landed on the still sleeping medical examiner with a sigh. Gingerly stepping into the room on tiptoes, the detective spotted her bag close to the bed and carefully unzipped it before pulling out a pair of shorts and a tank top. Peering back toward the bed, the towel dropped and soft cotton slid up long tanned legs to hang loosely on narrow hips.

Maura lingered in that hazy fog before waking fully. Heavy lids blinked open but the weight was too much to bear, sliding slowly closed again with a quiet groan. A monumental effort forced eyes open again, hazel green struggling for focus in the soft light of an unfamiliar bedroom. Head lolling to the right, wobbly gaze settled on a partially naked form. Brows scrunched in confusion; lean, subtle musculature… olive skin, firm breasts. One word pushed out hoarse and weak. "Jane?"

"Holy mother of…" Stumbling, one arm came up to cross an exposed chest as the other searched blindly for the discarded towel on the floor. Wide brown eyes leveled on the medical examiner who appeared to be deep in slumber once again, brow smooth, a contented sigh escaping slightly parted lips. Not wasting time, Jane shrugged into the black tank, hands landing on hips, lips pursed. Glancing at the clock on the night stand, irrational fear began to settle in the detective's gut. She had honestly expected Maura to wake by now… the window of sedation provided by Katherine Pearce had come and gone by at least fifteen minutes. While Jane knew that shouldn't be cause for alarm, the gnawing dread couldn't be stopped any more than the passage of time. If anything happened to Maura… That's enough! Snap out of it and focus!

Retrieving the bag of supplies from the bathroom, Jane sat gingerly on the edge of the bed, pulling out Kate's schedule for her friend's meds. Lids slid closed over tired eyes. It was time for antibiotics. Ooookay. Here we go. Drawing the correct dosage as practiced; the syringe was inserted into the IV port taped securely to porcelain skin in the crook of the doctor's elbow. Plunger deployed, a deep breath was released. Snapping the needle off into the orange cap and tossing the used instrument into the nearby wastebasket, Jane tried to relax, rolling shoulders and studying slack features. "God, Maur… you're gonna be okay… I promise." Barely audible, just saying the words lent strength and resilience, a smile slowly blooming as the long legged detective stood with renewed purpose, putting away their supplies and opening files.


The next time hazel green blinked open, brows furrowed in confusion at the light show dancing on the ceiling; white and silver ribbons swooped and swerved in constant fluid motion. Water. A right hand came up to scrub some of the sluggishness away as memories of the previous few days slowly fell back into place. The safe house must be near water, Maura mused, happy to have some deductive reasoning that had been lost in the haze of medication back. She desperately wanted to feel like herself again and less like a victim. Eyes closed, deep breathing exercises commenced until a nagging pain became too much to bear. Hissing in and holding, the doctor's head rolled slowly to the right to find Jane close, asleep atop the comforter on her side. Reading glasses were askew amidst various papers and a closed laptop, arm outstretched with long fingers splayed protectively across the doctor's hip. The opportunity to study her friend so unencumbered was rare, trained eyes taking in every detail, frowning at the prominent dark circles beneath closed lids and the sharpened features indicating lost weight. Deciding that pain management could wait, Maura gently nestled her fingers with those at her waist. Without a doubt, Maura loved this woman and it was times like these… times that bore witness to Jane's unequivocal focus and devotion that scared the medical examiner most of all. How was she supposed to compare… to measure up? Emotionally stunted and socially inept… Maura knew with a heart wrenching burn that she could never be enough for such an open and demonstrative person, a woman that lived life at full tilt while she herself sat back and carefully observed before making informed and calculated decisions.

Jane awoke with a gasp, bolting upright, glasses tumbling onto the bed. "Whah? What happened?" Disoriented, brown eyes blinked and darted side to side finally landing on Maura. "God, are you okay? Are you… are you in pain? Can I get you anything? I…" The detective's scarred right hand immediately covered the doctor's forehead, "Do you have a fever?" A worried gaze finally landed on joined hands when cool fingers squeezed, a shy smile forming. "Sorry. I'm just… I'm a little nervous. But you're awake and I didn't kill you so that has to be a good start, yeah?"

Maura chuckled at the characteristic humor. "Indeed, that is a good start. I would appreciate some acetaminophen and some water and then will you please help me wash my hair and get cleaned up? I would possibly kill for a shower."

Carefully helping the doctor sit up, Jane sniffed playfully. "Yeah, you are beginning to smell a little ripe." A swift pinch was delivered in retribution. "Ow! Really? For someone who puts so much stock in honesty and can't even tell a lie, you sure can't take it."

The medical examiner frowned as she gingerly swung slender legs over the side, toes curling automatically into the plush rug covering rich hardwoods before finding an amused stare. "You may have a point. I… I can smell myself and it is not an entirely pleasant sensation." Taking the offered pills and swallowing the ice cold water gratefully, she sighed in contentment.

Jane smiled at the obvious pleasure evident on her friends face, taking in the empty sleeve of her Pats shirt; a definite reminder of an immobilized left arm and logistical considerations. Chewing thoughtfully on a well-worn thumbnail, the detective worked out how to fulfill the request before the setup hit with a snap of long fingers. "Okay. Wait here a sec. I think I got this."

Hazel green eyes narrowed when the lanky detective returned through the double doors on the left side of the room with plush towels and designer shampoo in hand only to exit the bedroom. It had never been in her nature not to question, even if there were a hint of a whine present. "Jane? Where are you going? Isn't that the ensuite bathroom?" The doctor only huffed at the indelicate yell for patience before the long legged detective stalked back into the room. A careful right hand pushed off against the mattress, early morning balance a bit of an issue as Maura's stance teetered.

"Whoa! What did I just say about patience?" Jane grumbled as sure hands settled into the dip of a narrow waist, ignoring the sudden jolt of heat at the feel of small hands gripping tightly against the smooth skin of exposed forearms.

"Jane. I have to walk at some point. I need to work on my stamina and it is standard protocol for post-op patients to start mobility trials at this point in the recovery process. Just…" The amount of energy consumed by the simple act of standing was a bit shocking, words becoming a little breathless, fingers curled around a tight bicep as the doctor moved around to stand alongside. "Just please stay close to me. Where are we going?"

Disapproval flitted across sculpted features before settling into to a frown, a free hand fidgeting above warm skin. "Um. The kitchen. Are you sure about this?"

The grip tightened slightly as the detective was met with a blinding grin, "I know you won't let me fall, Jane."

Oh, god. This woman. Slowly they moved through the doorway and cautiously navigated the open space, around the island and toward the deep undermount sink where a towel was rolled up at the edge as a makeshift pillow. Nodding toward the counter, Jane's words were a bit hesitant. "I thought you could lie down up here and that way we could get your hair washed without…" A tapered finger ghosted over the cotton covering a bandaged shoulder, raspy voice lowering slightly. "Without getting this wet." The resulting smile was wide and full of wonder.

No one, not one person in the entirety of her life had ever shown Maura such consistent care and obvious consideration. Capturing Jane's hand, a soft thumb soothed over raised, gnarled flesh while perfect brows knitted together in worry. "I… that is so very thoughtful but I'm afraid…" Hesitant to ruin the effort, "With my current limitations, I don't believe I am capable of getting up onto…" The doctor's speech trailed off at the roll of brown eyes. "What?" There was a temporary moment of confusion as Jane ducked under Maura's good arm, draping it securely across strong shoulders, followed by concern. "You can't possibly think that you can lift me up there, Jane? I weigh too much and you could hurt your back and…" The medical examiner squealed as legs were swept easily off the floor and her face smushed against heated olive skin, the detective's throaty chuckle vibrating between them. Inhaling deeply, Maura didn't ever want to leave; deciding that it was one of her favorite scents before leaning away to find a warm gaze.

"Yeah, you really weigh a ton, Maur. You've just got to go on a diet." A wide grin spread, emphasizing the falsehoods before Jane recognized the close proximity of pouty lips, swallowing hard. "How exactly do you think you got from the car to the bed last night, Doctor Isles?" Cool fingers playing idly through the soft, dark hair at her nape, spurred action. Taking a step closer to the counter, the detective gingerly deposited the suddenly silent doctor, long arms remaining supportive until Maura was eased into a horizontal position. Plumping the towel, a dexterous hand quickly dismantled a loose braid before cutting on the tap and adjusting the temperature. "Is this okay?" Breathe dammit! Even with unkempt hair and a slightly washed out pallor, Maura was breathtakingly beautiful, golden green eyes shining up at her from the mere prospect of clean hair. Using the spray nozzle as distraction, "You know, when I wasn't feeling too great, Ma would always wash my hair in the sink 'cause it had this spray thing. She said it was like being at the beauty shop. Jaaane. It's like gettin' a professional shampoo job at the beauty parlor." Mimicking Angela's voice flawlessly, Jane directed the steady flow into loose locks; a tentative hand working the water through until she was certain every strand was wet. "Are you okay down there?"

There was a look of pure nirvana displayed across slack features and closed eyes which opened to a slit, the barely there nod all the response afforded at this point. Smiling, Jane grabbed the shampoo and squirted some out, lathering it between scarred palms before working it into honey blonde tresses, fingers massaging the scalp before moving outward.

"Oh god, Jane… that's… ohmmmmmmm. You… Oh! Wowww. That's amazing." Maura couldn't help it… Going with dirty hair for more than three days, that filter from before was still compromised. "Mmm, yeah. Right there, ooohhhh." Currently, strong fingertips were kneading against tight knots at the base of the doctor's skull through the rinse cycle, "God, Jane… right there… that feels so good."

Unnerved by the unabashed moans and a mind that couldn't seem to quit imagining those words under different circumstances; a stray squirt landed directly in the detective's face. "Shit!" Quickly shrugging a shoulder to catch the excess water, Jane was hoping Maura didn't catch her slip, eyes finally landing on quivering tight lips. A reluctant smile tugged upward, "Okay. You know what? Fine. You got me, Maur. Happy now? I'm not exactly a professional hair washer-er." Hoping to recover the fumble, hands never stopped applying expensive conditioner before the final rinse. Helping the doctor into a seated position on the countertop, Jane moved between parted thighs. Gently toweling golden strands dry, dark eyes studied well known features with a frown, drawing conclusions from the light sheen of perspiration present and the pinched brow. Words were hoarse and conciliatory, "Hey. I'm going to make us something to eat but you need to rest." Taking in the spectacular view of the lake, stubborn resistance was circumvented with a compromise. "How about you set up camp out here on the sofa over there? The view is amazing and you can keep me company while I cook? Read. Relax. I'm sure we get ESPN…" Jane made a face, "Probably even the History Channel and all those other geeky things you make me watch."

Fatigued and frustrated by the amount of energy the slightest activity required, Maura nodded her consent, eyes taking in the open space for the first time, voice coarse from exhaustion, "Jane… this place is truly amazing." Discerning eyes scanned the great room noting the immaculate décor and expensive amenities, taking in the full glass front with a spectacular panoramic view and state of the art appliances in the open kitchen… clearly an upscale lake house. Absentmindedly draping a good arm around her friend's shoulders, manicured brows knitted in confusion. "How? Where are we?"

Feigning a mock wound, the detective couldn't hide her grin. "Wow. It kind of hurts that you don't think I could pull off such fine accommodations." Gently lowering the doctor to a standing position, long arms held firm as she caught an upturned and open gaze. "Korsak arranged it through his ex, Melody. She's into high-end rentals now… well, after the yoga studio bit the dust. We are at one of her places on Lake Massabesic."

Enjoying the feel of the warm embrace, the doctor rested her forehead against inviting tanned skin, smiling a little as strong hands snaked around to rest in the small of her back. "Did you know that 'Massabesic' is a Native American word meaning 'place of much water' and 'near the great brook'? Also, because it is a source of drinking water for nearby Manchester, swimming and water skiing are not allowed?" Maura could practically feel the smirk forming and imagined brown eyes had rolled at the information as well.

"Well, gee. That is extremely interesting and relevant. Thank you so much for sharing, Doctor Random Facts." Moving away slightly, Jane's arm remained securely around a narrow waist as she guided them toward the couch. "What else you got?" She grinned into narrowed hazel green.

A manicured brow arched, "Since you asked so nicely, Detective Sarcasm, legends claim that the famous New Hampshire chief Passaconaway was killed on the lake when a canoe transporting him was struck by lightning, disintegrating both he and the canoe instantly." Settling against the multitude of throw pillows and fidgeting before finding a comfortable position, Maura frowned. "Although, I do not subscribe to the theory of spontaneous combustion… certainly electrocution and perhaps the canoe itself caught on fire from the strike but I don't think it would…" Unknowingly rubbing across the shoulder bandage, tired eyes took in her detective's stance; hands on hips and eyes sparkling with affection. "I'm sure you find all of that to be superfluous information as well."

The urge… the need to touch was again too overwhelming to deny, a long finger tracing the doctor's nose before dropping away, voice full of awe. "Are you kidding me? I love that you know all of that stuff. You are amazing, Maura. I'm sure I don't say that enough." And there it was again; a slight flicker of emotion followed by an intense gaze that made Jane's knees go weak with longing. "Maur…" One word. Thick and low. The ringing of the detective's phone on the kitchen island stole the moment, Jane cursing internally and glancing at the Timex on her wrist to confirm it was indeed ten a.m. and time for the check in with Korsak and Frost. The detective couldn't miss the silent plea to continue and again cursed the monumentally bad timing with a wince. "I have to get that." Nodding toward the kitchen, "It's the guys checking in. We, um, set it up last night… while you were out of it."

Snatching the offending cell phone off the granite, it took every bit of self-restraint that Jane had not to growl. "Korsak. Hey. You got anything new for us?"

Maura melted further into the cushions, half listening to the one sided conversation, heart hammering at what had just transpired. Lids slid closed as she replayed the way Jane had looked at her longingly, a distinct warmth suffusing her entire body with hope even as the need for sleep tugged insistently at the edges. Desperate to fight it off, the medical examiner fumbled with the television remote and scrolled through the menu before settling on Sports Center with a sigh. She could tell by the increased raspy volume and the definitive footfalls that there must not be anything new worth reporting.

Sure hands grabbed ingredients from the well-stocked Sub Zero and tossed them on the island before pulling a large stock pot off the hanging wrack and placing it atop the flame on the stove. "I'm sorry. I'm just… frustrated. There has to be something…" Glancing toward the living area, "Yeah, she's doing okay, I think. It's almost time for her pain meds so I'm trying to throw together some soup." A tinny voice droned on as the detective added chicken broth and the fresh cheese tortellini she had discovered to the mix, a pinch of salt and pepper for good measure, dark brow creasing. "I do cook, you know. Just don't tell Ma. She'll be all Jaaaanie, if you can cook, you can get a man." Smiling at her former partner's laughter, the pantry was searched for the can of San Marzano diced tomatoes she had seen earlier. Deftly dumping them along with rinsed cannellini beans into the now simmering pot, Jane grew serious again. "Vince. I don't like being on the fringe like this with Maura hurt. We need to figure this one out in a hurry… If Doyle can't take care of business…" She listened as Korsak went through their efforts again, snapping a few sprigs of basil off the planter of herbs by the sliding glass doors before returning to the kitchen. Running a sharp knife through the leaves, they joined a hefty splash of Balsamic vinegar in the detective's creation. "I know, Vince. I know you guys are doing all you can and I really appreciate it. Just… keep me posted and stay safe, alright?"

Ending the call, Jane braced against the counter, head in hands. Taking a deep breath, she knew she had to keep it together. Of course, to expect too much to have happened overnight was foolish. Get a grip, Jane. Pushing off and into an upright position, she rolled her neck and shoulders with a crack. Bowls were easily located through the glass front cabinets, silverware in the perfect spot next to the stainless dishwasher. Tearing off a piece of the fresh bakery bread on the counter, the detective couldn't contain the moan. Ciabatta.

Filling a bowl, Jane dunked a hunk of the scrumptious bread into the steaming soup and grabbed a bottle of water, cautiously walking toward the sofa lest she spill a drop on the expensive… well, everything. "Hey…" Words caught at the sight of the peacefully sleeping doctor. God, she is so beautiful. Suddenly struck by overwhelming emotion, long legs quietly folded and the detective perched on the edge of the glass coffee table, bowl and water placed to the side as dark eyes were afforded the luxury of unimpeded observation.

For the most part, Maura appeared to be sleeping without a care in the world and certainly no outward signs that a bullet had pierced her shoulder some days ago. That last thought forced an immediate frown as careful fingers played with an errant curl, tucking it back into place as a scared hand remained briefly before falling away. The deep shadows beneath long lashes seemed to have lessened and a little color pinked lightly freckled cheeks… signs of recovery. Looking heavenward, Jane sent up a quick prayer of thanks before leaning forward, stopping to take in serene features before closing the short distance and leaving a lingering kiss at the corner of soft lips. The resulting whimper startled the detective, jerking away to find glassy hazel eyes.

Panic. Immediate and paralyzing panic raced along every nerve ending Jane possessed; a strong fight or flight response invoked. "Maura, I'm sorry… God, I don't… I don't know what I was thinking… Shit! I just… you… almost losing you has…" Flight it is. The lanky brunette could feel the heat prickling up her chest and onto her face as she made to stand; stopped by a gentle hold on her wrist.

"Dooon't."

Jane had done the unthinkable and crossed the imaginary line and now everything would surely go to hell. Fuck! Scrubbing a free hand over her face, "I know you don't want it… I shouldn't have… I just… I can fix this." Whispered words were full of sorrow and regret. "Please just… please don't hate me." Jane would accept whatever her friend decided. She could go back to the person she was before a chance meeting in the precinct café years ago that put the wheels of their friendship into motion; married to the job and living off of stale coffee and the station's vending machine… missing family dinners and holidays with made up, flimsy excuses. Without Maura, it didn't really matter anyway. It might be better for the both of them in the long run; the detective's track record in relationships wasn't exactly stellar.

"MMmmm." Maura had awakened to Jane's lips on her skin, so close, the warm tufts of breath felt so real. Glassy eyes blinked open to find a terrified brown gaze, sounds garbled as a sleep and pain addled brain struggled to catch up. When it did, Maura smiled and flexed the fingers that had captured the floundering detective. "Jane? Wh-why are you…?" Please don't hate me. The words pierced the doctor's awareness with a jolt and a gasp. "Why would you think that I…?" Vision clearing, brows furrowed as Maura studied the defeated posture of her best friend. Oh. It was real. "Oooh! N-No! That's not…" Smile turning a little shy at the prospect of what was about to be initiated, a freeness unfurled somewhere within a flushed chest, thoughts blurted and spilling over. "You-you missed!" Not quite as eloquent as the doctor had hoped.

Jane's head snapped up in confusion, guarded dark eyes awaiting explanation, jaw clenched; giving nothing more away and prepared to receive the worst. She was almost certain that she had stopped breathing; the pressure in burning lungs seemed affirmation enough as she stared into familiar hazel green.

Searching a wary gaze, cool fingers dragged upward over strained corded muscles before coming to rest at the detective's nape with a gentle tug. Pulling Jane in, Maura's heart thumped erratically; fear and exhilaration mixing into a heady cocktail. Licking suddenly dry lips, words were whispered within shared breaths. "You missed, Jane." Closing the distance, lips met with a smile waiting for the detective to respond and it didn't take long.

Jane's eyes remained open as her best friend closed the gap and kissed her firmly, groaning as Maura's lids slid shut. Scarred hands immediately tangled in slightly damp curls, applying pressure before her right moved to brace against the armrest of the sofa supporting most of the detective's weight. "God, Maura." Breathed into a deeper kiss, tongues met and the two fell into an easy rhythm; lost in each other and the new sensations and tastes, previously hidden feelings bubbling to the surface in a passionate tangle.

Maura couldn't wrap her over-active brain around the fact that this was finally happening. In fact, she couldn't think clearly about anything other than the feel of long fingers massaging her scalp and Jane's tongue in her mouth, taking and giving with equal abandon. The moan that forced its way out could not be stopped as warm lips trailed wetly across the doctor's jawline and down the exposed skin of her throat. "Mmmmgodddd, Jane. That's ssooo…God!" Squeaked as teeth scraped across an erratic pulse, Maura's free hand began to roam up and down soft cotton that covered the detective's back seeking more… needing more. Finally toying at the hem, deft fingers dipped underneath to find smooth skin with a groan, exploring the expanse of exposed tensed muscles greedily. More.

Months, possibly even years of denying and hiding intense feelings for her best friend seemed to manifest in a frenzied desire to have it all at once; Maura wanted to map every dip and nuance of olive skin, memorize each freckle and every scar. God! Another groan ripped its way free as the doctor considered one freckle in particular between firm breasts that had been a source of great distraction during many an autopsy, peeking seductively at the edge of V-necked collars before disappearing again out of spite. Mouth watering, she wanted to lick that spot immediately just to know if the taste would come close to a superior imagination. Forgetting sutures and shoulder sling along with the pulse of pain that seemed to be nipping at the edge of sanity, Maura attempted to employ her left hand to achieve her goal. The failed effort forced a hiss of breath through clenched teeth and an immediate halt to mutual exploration, lids pinched tight.

Jerking away in a haze for the second time, Jane sucked in ragged breaths as coal black eyes searched Maura's flushed face with concern and guilt. "Shit! I'm so sorry. Are you okay? I'm sorry. I… I got carried away. Dammit! What… what can I do?" Alarmed was an understatement as the doctor remained silent, features taut. Hands hovered, afraid to touch, "Maur? I need you to give me a sign here… throw me a bone 'cause you are scaring the hell out of me."

For her part, Maura lay as still as possible while applying years of yoga training, regulating her breathing. Jane's fearful tone made her smile. Always the protector. Then the irony of the moment seemed almost humorous… actually funny once the doctor had a second to think about it. Amused hazel green opened to expected close and anxious warm brown with a smile and a small giggle. The resulting frown only made Maura laugh a little harder, sliding a now extricated hand up to cup the detective's jaw, thumb gently caressing. "I forgot about my injuries… I really needed to touch you, Jane… with both of my hands and I suppose I'm the one who got carried away as you put it. You do that to me." A slight pout darkened soft features, "We finally… it isn't fair that I can't touch you like I want to… because I really want to touch you and I've waited for so long."

Breathing again, it was Jane's turn to chuckle, leaning forward for a quick kiss to pursed lips, gravelly voice growing serious as she caught a hazel gaze with a small smile. "I've been waiting a long time too, Maura. We should probably take it easy and talk but right now," A quick glance to the watch on her wrist, "You need to eat so you can take your meds." And I need a cold shower. Anticipating protest, "It's nice out so why don't we eat on the deck and get some fresh air. The view is pretty amazing and since we're here…" Combing long fingers through addictive, fragrant loose curls, "We might as well take advantage. I'll go get everything ready and come back for you." Dark brows waggled as a deep voice husked, "Don't go anywhere, Doctor Isles. I'm not done with you yet." Jane couldn't resist one more long slow kiss before standing, crooked grin in place. "Wow. You're just… wow."

A free hand swatted the detective's butt as she walked away, a quick reminder that while she may be limited in range of motion, Maura was certainly not helpless.


"MMmm, Jane this is really delicious." Taking another bite of the light soup, lids slid closed in rapture. "I never realized how much I would miss real food… this is just... so good!" The doctor's smile was contagious. Lunch under the bright red umbrella continued much in the same way, consumed with typical banter, the occasional stolen kiss being the only new component to the norm, tangy balsamic vinegar and tart tomatoes melding nicely on tangled tongues.

With a grin, Jane watched Maura finish off the remains of a fudge sickle after taking the prescribed meds, leaning in to lick a falling drop from the doctor's chin. Tracing a path upward, "Mmmm. You taste even better with melted chocolate on your lips."

The medical examiner smirked and stole another kiss before pulling away with a slight frown, gaze never leaving a curious brown one. "Should we talk about this? I mean… I suppose we should. It's just that I… I'm not very good at this part." A delicate hand waived in the small space between the two as the doctor's eyes darted away, voice softening. "The very idea of losing you due to any particular shortcoming on my part is… god, it's terrifying." Watery hazel green lifted shyly.

"Hey, whoa. Slow down, sweetie." Catching Maura's hand between her own, Jane managed more confidence than she actually felt at the time, words steady and strong, hopefully enough for the both of them. "I really don't get it. You seriously underestimate yourself, Maur. You are the most generous and warm and caring person I know. Anyone would be lucky to get to be with you… whoever…whomever?" The detective ignored the prickling of heat spreading across her neck and chest. Now was the time for complete and utter honesty; foolish pride be damned. Smiling she winked saucily at her companion. "Not to mention you are insanely, wildly, unbelievably gorgeous. And did I mention hot?" At the small chuff of laughter, serious sentiment returned and Jane had to rub a sweaty palm across her thigh before continuing. "I… I really didn't expect to be saying this so soon and I hope it doesn't scare you but I… I know what I want from this so I guess it will be up to you." Warm lips ghosted across Maura's knuckles as the detective went all in, taking a deep breath. "I want to be with you. Together with you as in a 'No more Brock, Jorge, Grant, that creepy-assed guy with the spider arms that asked you out over a dead body... no more fix ups by my Ma and no more dating other people' kind of way. Just us. The two of us… I want to give this a try because…" Nerves wound into a normally raspy voice in the form of a tremor but brown eyes were fierce. "I love you, Maura. I do. I don't think I can remember a time when I didn't but if you don't… I… What? Why are you laughing?"

It was the heady, uncontrollable feeling of pure joy… a feeling so completely foreign but at the same time so familiar that left Maura in a fit of giggles, relief and love needing a release as tears flowed freely. Her right hand tangled in the soft curls at her best friend's nape, finally taking in the stricken look with a sudden awareness. "Oh no. God, Jane, I'm sorry." Frantically kissing a wrinkled forehead, both cheeks and closed eyelids, the doctor struggled to find words fitting of the elation she was experiencing, finally settling her gaze on dark brown. "I'm so sorry. It's the endorphins. I can't… they are causing an inappropriate response and I don't mean to laugh…" Brows scrunched in thought, "It's just that I'm so happy and I know it may seem fast and sudden but… it's not, really; at least not for me. I love you too, Jane. I have… and I want to see where this can go," A wide grin blossomed, "I am just kind of overwhelmed… you really feel the same?" The question was finished with a kiss full of promise and passion, ending with both women breathless and content. Bolstered by the knowledge that feelings were reciprocated, Maura launched a cocky grin. "You do know that isn't the first time you told me that you love me though right?"

It was Jane's turn to flounder, wracking her brain for any such declaration; drunken or sober and she was coming up empty. Eyes narrowing, she carefully pulled Maura into her lap for easier access, arms locked low across the doctor's back. Detective Rizzoli was on the job as persistent lips trailed across smooth alabaster skin, landing on a skittering pulse with fervor. Alternating a light scrape of teeth with a soothing lick, Jane finally pulled back to examine darkened hazel with a wicked grin. "Why, Doctor Isles. Are you telling tales out of school?"

Maura's genius mind raced to make sense out of the question as manicured brows scrunched, right arm draped loosely across Jane's shoulders. "I've never really understood that saying, I must admit. I haven't been in school for quite some time but…" An amused glare squashed the rest of the lecture as hazel green narrowed playfully, deft fingers finding a strand of silky dark hair to twirl as features softened. "Do you remember a year or so ago when you had an adverse reaction to your medication following that altercation with a Castlegate gang member? The one that required eleven stitches to your upper left thigh? We ended up in an ambulance on the way to the ER for the second time in a twelve hour period and I was so scared, Jane." Full into story telling mode, the doctor frowned at the painful memory, "I was… crouched beside you in a ridiculous evening gown holding your hand and when… when you regained consciousness, you whispered in my ear that you loved me. Twice." Maura's smile was beaming as she leaned in to join their lips, whispering against Jane's grin and blinking back tears. "I wanted so desperately to believe that it were true, that it wasn't the drugs that prompted your confession but I didn't dare hope." Teeth tugged at a pliable lower lip before releasing. Somehow the doctor's smile was even wider as she laid her head on the detective's shoulder and nuzzled into warm skin with a sigh. "Now, as cliché as it sounds, my dream has come true."

Long fingers stroked idly through soft curls as memory flashes bombarded Jane out of sequence; bright snapshots of the evening in question that had been suppressed and forgotten. Dropping a kiss on delicate skin, good became the focus. "I remember you were stunning in that dress; deep red, almost the color of your favorite wine and you looked out of this world, Maur." Arms tightening their hold, a bittersweet chuff escaped unbridled, head shaking with a smile. "I was so jealous even then… the thought of all the Rico Suave assholes and beautiful people that would be after you drove me crazy. I… I wanted to ask you to stay but I knew how hard you had worked; how important it was for you to see things through." Jane's hand stilled as more memories became clear, her body rigid. "When I woke up in the hospital, I couldn't remember anything and I didn't know that I had told you… Shit. Back then I probably would've run for the hills and never stopped after confessing my undying love." Pulling back so that she could see Maura's face, the detective's voice was low and sincere. "I'm sorry that I made you wait so long before I said it again. I love you, Maura Isles."

Grin turning into a loud, un-ladylike yawn, Maura's words were heavy with sleep and medication as she left a sloppy kiss on salty skin. "Hmmm. Ittsss… well worth iit… Donnyooouu think?"

Noticing the way heavy lids drooped, the detective stood, hands occupied with guiding the lethargic doctor to a nearby chaise lounge. Straddling the chair, Jane gently lowered her charge onto the cushion between outstretched legs, long arms reaching around in a loose embrace across a taut abdomen before slowly leaning back into a comfortable reclined position. It was amazing and natural and exciting and calming all at once; the warmth of the fall sun and the feeling of Maura so wholly in her arms. Jane wanted to giggle like a school girl but somehow managed to refrain.

"Is this alright? Are you comfortable? Let me know if I hurt you, okay?" Jane nuzzled loose strands aside to breathe in a smooth warm scent before leaving a slow wet kiss, tasting a hint of salt and fruity shampoo.

Melting into the embrace, Maura could barely connect the dots between thought and speech so she lazily settled for patting the hands holding her close with a hum of approval, face turned in toward tanned skin with a loopy grin and a sigh.

Certain that slumber had won the battle, a long reach managed to snag the plush throw slung over a nearby chair. Carefully draping it across their lower limbs, the final step was tucking it around her sleeping companion and placing the Glock G22 on the deck within reach. Snuggling back into the spongy cushions; arms flexed lightly around Maura before Jane allowed the fall breeze and bright sun to coax forth a much needed nap.