A/N : We're back with our next installment of " The Rose ". Yes, I know… lots of cliffhangers, but how will I keep you coming back otherwise? Hope you enjoy it. It's going to be following parts of the show, but not completely. Let me know what you think! Love you all! Nicole


" What the fuck is going on here?! "


Antonio tried to jump out of the bed, but couldn't. He looked down. Jes was still sound asleep and her arms were tightly wrapped around him. He looked to the doorway and prayed Jay wasn't the one there.

Kevin's tall frame filled the doorway. " Seriously, Antonio? "

" Shh! " Antonio hissed. " She's still asleep. "

" Jay said she's off-limits to cops and yet… "

" We didn't have sex. For fuck's sake. She didn't want to be alone, so I stayed. "

" I suggest getting outta there. Jay's on his way back. "

" Dam nit! " He didn't want to, but he woke Jes. " Baby. Come on, sweetheart. That's it. Time to wake up. "

" Mmhmph. 5 more minutes. " Came the grumbled response.

" Jay's on his way. Come on, Jes. "

She slowly sat up and quickly pulled up the blanket as soon as she noticed they weren't alone. " Uh, hi Kevin. " She looked around. " This is not what it looks like. "

" So Antonio says. Jay called. They're on their way. He wants to check up on you. "

" Uh huh. Hey, why is your shirt inside out? " She pointed at the tag. " And backwards? "

Kevin tried to stutter out an answer.

" We slept together. " Jacquie's voice came from behind Kevin.

" Dios mio! " Antonio shook his head. " This is too much. It's like the telenovelas my mom watches. "

" Okay, Jacquie, go deal with Kevin. We'll sort ourselves out here. " Jes made a shooing motion.

As soon as her bedroom door was closed, she turned to face Antonio. " Thank you. "

" For what? "

" Last night. "

" You were pretty wasted. "

" I was tispy, not drunk. I remember everything. I know I tried getting… and you told me 'no'. You said you wanted to go on a real date, to get to know me. "

" Damn. "

" I also told you to choose a day, time and place, Detective. You never gave me an answer. "

" I didn't think you meant it. " He replied honestly.

" I meant it. Still do. " She wrapped her arms around his neck. " I also remember this. " She kissed him.

" Oh, Jes. " He moaned. " I remember that too. "

" I mean it, Antonio. Plan a date and tell me when, where and what I should wear. I'll be there. "

" What about Jay? His rule? "

" Fuck him! And the rule! If I'm happy, shouldn't that be all that matters? Plus, he's one to talk. He's seeing Erin, even though I know Hank told him she's off-limits. "

" Can't argue with that, but how 'bout we focus on us, and when the time is right, we'll tell him. "

Jes noticed that he had said 'when' not 'if'. " Deal. "

This time Antonio kissed her. The desire between them was almost too much. He broke off the kiss. " I shouldn't of done that. Go shower, and change. I'll meet you in the kitchen, so Jay isn't suspicious. "

" Okay. " She hopped out of the bed and went into the master bath. As soon as Antonio head the shower run, he threw on his clothes, careful to make sure it was on right. He headed to the kitchen. Jay wasn't there yet. Jacquie was in the kitchen, nursing a cup of coffee.

" Good morning. " They greeted each other.

" Any coffee left? " He asked.

" Here. " She poured him a mug.

" Thanks. " He gratefully took it. He took a sip. " This is good coffee. "

" I get it imported. " She smiled, but it quickly turned into a grimace. " Ohh, hangovers suck. "

" Where's the coffee from? " He swore that the taste was familiar.

" The Dominican. It's Santo Domingo. " She smiled, not as big as to prevent the blinding pain from the hangover.

" That's why it's familiar. It's all my parents will drink. I missed it. "

" Dominicano? " She asked with a slight accent.

" Si, pero nacido y criado aqui en Chicago. Y tú? "

" I'm born and raised Canadian like Jes. My mom's Dominican. My dad's a Scot. I spent a lot of my summers in the Dominican with my mom's family. "

" Your Spanish barely has an accent. " He was savouring the coffee. " I may just have to pop by more often. "

" For the coffee, or something else? " She arched an eyebrow.

" We didn't have sex. " Jes appeared around the corner. " He stopped my nightmares. "

" Then I won't rat him out to Jay, but I swear… "

" Okay, enough with the threats. " Jes handed Jacquie a bottle of Advil. " Take these. "

" How is it that you drank as much if not more than me and you're this peppy? " Jacquie growled. " It's not fair. "

" One, I'm French. Two, I didn't do tequila shots. " Jes laughed. " Tequila's a cruel mistress and you haven't learned this yet. "

"Oh, shut up!" Jacquie poured herself more coffee.

Jes took the opportunity to poke about Kevin. "So you and Kevin, huh?"

"Not a word."

Antonio finished his coffee and went about making a breakfast that was known to cure the worst hangovers. "Kevin's a great guy." He chimed in.

"Yeah, I know he is…" Jacquie sighed. "I made the choice and pushed…"

"I'm a big boy." Kevin said as he came back into the kitchen. "I coulda said no."

"Where'd you go?" Antonio questioned.

"Get some milk and these." He pulled out a bouquet of vibrant daisies. He handed them to Jacquie. "I guess you and I do things in a different order than normal, but I'd really like to take you out to dinner one night."

"I'd love that." She tried to kiss his cheek, but at 5'2" and Kevin being at least a whole foot taller, he had to bend down to receive it. "Just so you know, 'normal' is just a setting on the dryer."

The whole kitchen erupted into laughter. "What's so funny?" Jay asked as he and Erin came in the back door.

"Just discussing laundry." Kevin replied. He had Antonio's back, the same was Jacquie had Jes'.

"I must still be too drunk to see how laundry could be funny." Jay mumbled. He looked at his sister. "How's your head this morning? Gaby sent me your tab."

"I'm fine." Jes smiled. "I don't get hangovers, remember?"

"Lucky bitch." Jacquie hip checked her best friend.

Jes just stuck her tongue out at Jacquie.

"Clearly, you survived and are doing fine." Jay grimaced. "I, however, am dying. So, Erin, if you could kindly drive me home, so I can suffer in silence?"

"Sure thing." Erin handed him the keys. "I'll be right there, just need to borrow the little girls' room."

Jay hugged Jes. "I'll call you later."

"Feel better." She kissed his cheek.

Once Jay was out of earshot, Erin turned to the four others. "Well?"

"Well, what?" Antonio asked as he served up pancakes.

"Don't play coy with my Antonio." Erin replied. "You two are sneaking around, we all see it. Except Jay." She pointed to Jes and Antonio.

"We danced last night, Erin. That's it." Jes replied simply.

"Everyone sees how you look at each other." Erin wasn't backing down.

"Look Erin," Antonio stepped between Erin and Jes. "What we do is our business, same as you and Jay. So back off."

"Fine. I'll keep my mouth shut for now, but if this goes somewhere, you will tell him… or I will" She stomped out of the house.

"Who is she and who shat in her Cheerios this morning?" Jacquie asked.

"She… is a problem." Antonio replied. "She's also a fucking hypocrite."

"How long you think before she tells Halstead?" Kevin wondered.

"Who knows?!" Antonio looked around. His cell began to ring. It was Asher calling. "Hang on." He left to go to the living room. "Dawson."

"Hey, I'm coming back later tonight from a diamond run. I need you to pick me up at 3."

"Sure. Send me the details and I'll be there."

"Use the car." Asher ended the call.

He went back into the kitchen. "Hey, Jes, can we talk?"

"Sure." She led him into the study and closed the doors. "What's up?"

"About the date…"

"You're not backing out, are you, Detective?"

He loved the way she said 'Detective'. "No, no way. I meant it when I said I wanted to take you out. I wanted to do it tonight, but my private security gig needs me. But I have a place in mind…" He took a step closer to her. "And an idea of what you should wear…" Another step. He was right in front of her. "The day and time will have to be a surprise." He leaned down a little and kissed her.

"Mmm." She stroked her cheek. "Deal. Just call me and I'll just need an hour's notice."

"Definitely." He kissed the tip of her nose. "Before I forget. Diego asked me if I could ask you to be their tutor?"

"They struggle?"

"No, it's because of the divorce and custody crap. They're falling behind."

"Sure. I'd love to. Your kids are awesome."

"They think the same of you. Plus, I'd get to see you more when I bring them by or you come over… whichever will work for you. Jay wouldn't be suspicious if you tell him you're their tutor."

"So, you have ulterior motives?" She whispered seductively.

"Maybe." He kissed her lightly. "I've gotta get going. I'll call you about the date."

"Alright."

"You'll need to catch up with Jacquie anyhow. I know where you live and I know your cell. Don't worry, I'm not going to break my promise."

"Okay. Let me know when you want the tutoring to start." She kissed him again. "I…" She stopped herself. She couldn't say it. It was too soon. "Thank you, for everything."

Antonio suspected she had meant to say something else, but didn't push it. "I'll call you later tonight, baby."

Neither of them wanted him to go but they knew he had to. He kissed her and left. She knew it wasn't 'good bye', but part of her still ached when he left. She made her way back to the kitchen, but Jacquie was nowhere to be found. She went back to the living room where Minion was sunbathing. She picked up the kitten and began playing with her.

"Finally got your cat, huh?" Jacquie's voice took her by surprise.

"Yeah." Jes smiled and handed Minion over to Jacquie. "It's easier to have a cat when you own your own place than renting."

Jacquie looked from the wriggling ball of fur. "Woah, woah. Rewind. You brought this place?"

Jes nodded.

"With what money?"

"My inheritance. Well, part of it."

"Holy shit!"

"Breow!" The kitten jumped from Jacquie's grasp and went to chase after one of her jingle balls Jes had gotten for her.

"I got a good deal." Jes rationalized. "Jay's got connections everywhere."

"I can see that." Jacquie sat genie style on the couch. "I also saw how much everyone raised for P2K."

"I never saw a total."

"Between your initial start-up, individual donations as well as the donations from the CFD and CPD not to mention the money from last night… We've got close to a million lined up."

"Holy shit!"

Jacquie laughed.

"Seriously?"

"Yup." Jacquie smiled. "Kevin told me."

"Damn!" Jes was shocked. "I knew it was a lot, but not that much."

"Well, it is. Where are we setting up shop?"

"Right next to the boxing gym Antonio goes to and got to partner with us."

"Uh huh. Does the location have anything to do with Detective Salsa?"

Jes threw a pillow at Jacquie's head. "Shut up!"

The two laughed and planned out what they wanted for P2K.


TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR


Antonio called Jes quickly before Asher's flight landed. He wanted to know how she was. He missed being away from her, and it hadn't even been a whole day yet. This was different than when he had been with Laura. He had missed her, yes, but not to this extent. This was a very different feeling. He'd be happy to finish dealing with Asher and he could go home and get some sleep before his shift the next day. He didn't need to get shit from Voight for not being focused, or for Jay to catch on that he was dating Jes. "Hey baby."

"Hey! Everything alright? It's almost 2 am."

"I figured you may still be up. I wanted to say good night."

"Awe. You're sweet. Yeah. Jacquie and I just worked out a rough plan of how to make P2K work."

"What about catching up?"

"Once we have a plan for P2K, we can catch up. She's not going anywhere."

"True. Well, you should get some sleep. I'm about to be on duty with this security thing anyhow."

"Okay, good night Antonio." She blew a kiss over the line. "Be safe."

"Always, baby. Sweet dreams. I'll talk to you soon." He ended the call. He contemplated their date. He wanted to take her out, make her feel like a queen. He also knew that eventually, they'd have to deal with sex. He shook his head. Sex was a long time away. Or at least, he thought it would be. She had never been with anyone in a romantic way, he'd have to take his time and be gentle. He took a deep breath of the crisp night air. He had to clear his mind. Focusing on the task at hand was key. He wasn't getting paid by Asher to be unfocused. He looked up and saw Asher descending the steps of the plane. He got out of the car and went around to open the door.

"We have to make a stop." Asher stated.

"It's 4am."

"Well, it was a productive trip… and I don't want these in the house." Asher motioned to the briefcase cuffed to his wrist.

Antonio shut the door, shook his head and got back behind the wheel of the car. These late night diamond runs were gonna bite him in the ass one day.


TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR


The next day, Jes was folding laundry in the living room when Jacquie came down the stairs. "Hey, is the dashing Latin Detective gonna ever ask you out or what?" She watched as Jes' face turned red. "Oh my God! He already did, didn't he? Didn't he?" Jacquie bounded to the couch and began to poke Jes in the ribs.

"Gak!" Jes tried to deflect the attack but to no avail. "Stop that."

"Not until you tell me."

"Okay!" She squealed. "Okay."

Jacquie stopped. "Dish."

"Well, you know that I told him everything."

"Uh huh…"

"Well, he said that he doesn't judge because the past is the past."

"And?"

"He says I'm going to do great things. He refused to do anything the other night because he thought I was wasted. He also told me that as much as he'd like more, he wants to go slow and do things the right way."

"Okay… sooo?"

"So what?"

"When are you guys going to go on your date?" Jacquie was exasperated. "Jesus, woman! This is like pulling teeth from a mule."

Jes smirked. "Keep that up and I won't tell you jack."

Jacquie blew a raspberry.

"Real mature. He said he had one planned, but he'd surprise me because of his two jobs."

"OMG!" Jacquie squealed. "I'm so excited for you!"

"Did you seriously just say 'OMG'?" Jes snickered. "He also asked me if I would tutor his kids."

"WOAH! Hang on. You told me he was getting a divorce, you didn't say anything about kids being involved. Jes, that's a whole other ball game!"

Jes glared at her. "Really? Of all the things you could find wrong with the guy, it's that he has kids?"

"Uh, well, step-moms aren't usually liked. Especially once the kids are teens."

"Well, Diego is about to be 10 and Eva is 14. I've met them already. They specifically asked Antonio if I would be their tutor. They asked."

"Hmm."

"Look, Antonio's got ten years on me. He's getting divorced from a woman who didn't understand his job. He's got two kids who need stability. I understand his job and I've worked with kids my whole life."

"Jes, working with them and helping raise them are two very different things."

"So you're telling me that I shouldn't date him?"

"No…"

"Then what's the problem? What are you trying to tell me?"

"I just don't wanna see you get hurt again."

"He won't. He's been hurt too. Look, can't I at least try?"

Jacquie sighed. "Yes. But does he know…"

"Does he know I was raped? Almost murdered? Can't have kids of my own?"

"Yeah." Jacquie felt bad for putting Jes through this, but she needed to make sure that Jes was safe.

"He does. He personally wanted to kill the bastard. He woke me up from one of those nightmares. He knows the whole thing. He… he was kind. It doesn't seem to be a big deal. He actually, genuinely cares. Look, I've never felt this happy… this safe. Ever. Not since that night."

"Okay, but if he ever hurts you… cop or not, he's done."

"Deal." Jes hugged her housemate. "Now, what about you and Kevin?"

"Uh…"

"Come on. How was it?"

"The sex was… amazing. He's awesome. Funny, caring. Did you know he's raising his little sister on his own?" Jacquie took a shaky breath. "I just, I don't know what got into me. I don't usually sleep with guys I just met."

"I know, but at least he wants to get to know you. Take you out and stuff." Jes grinned. "Did you plan a date?"

"Yeah, for tonight. If it's good with you?"

"Why wouldn't it be?"

"Because… I just got back, we've only been planning P2K, we haven't had time to catch up."

"We'll have all the time in the world to catch up. Go! Have fun. I'll find something to do around here."

"Okay. Tomorrow, we'll do a girls' day." Jacquie hugged Jes and went to get ready for her night out.

Jes headed up to her room. She hadn't really had time to absorb all the changes. She checked her cell. There was a missed call. 'How did I miss a call?' She wondered. It didn't take long to figure out it was still on vibrate. She entered her voicemail pin and listened to her message.

"Hey baby." It was Antonio! She giggled. "You're probably busy catching up with Jacquie. Just calling to… well to say hi. Uh, call me when you get this."

"Everything okay?" Jacquie was standing in her doorway, putting in earrings.

"Yeah. Uh, just checking my voicemail. How'd you find me?"

Jacquie pointed to the floor. Jes looked down. Minion was there, rubbing up against her bedpost. "She must've followed you up here."

"Silly kitty." Jes said as she picked up the vibrating fur ball from the floor. "You keep getting into trouble."

"How so?"

"Antonio stepped on her tail the first night I had her."

"What?!"

"Yeah, I was using his Jacuzzi like had told me I could. He had gone to Molly's and came back home drunk. Minion was asleep outside the bathroom door and he was going to take a shower. He stepped on her tail as he went to open the bathroom door. Needless to say, his towel went flying and well…"

"Hang on… towel? You've seen the man naked?"

Jes did a facepalm. "That's what you got from that? Is it that unbelievable?"

Jacquie shrugged. "Is he at least… you know, well endowed?"

Jes threw a toss cushion at her housemate. It beaned her right in the face. "How would you like it if I asked you that question about Kevin?"

The pillow flew back. "I'd say he's very well endowed and has very talented…"

"TMI!" Jes screeched as she covered her ears. "TMI!"

Jacquie laughed uncontrollably.

"You haven't changed Jacquie."

"Well, is Antonio…"

"Yeah. I guess. I don't know."

Jacquie stopped. "Oh sweetie! I'm sorry. I'm being heartless."

"It's fine. I've just never actually had sex, other than…"

"No! Jes. You've never had sex. What that bastard did to you wasn't sex."

"So, basically, you're telling me I'm still a virgin?"

Jacquie nodded. "Yeah. You never had sex since that night. So for all intents and purposes, you're still a virgin."

"Great." Jes pouted.

"Jes, sweetie, what's wrong?"

"Don't get me wrong, Antonio's everything I could ever ask for in a man and more. I'm just not sure he's into being with…"

"Okay. Stop it right there! Stop right now." Jacquie grabbed Jes by the shoulders. "He asked you. Remember? You just spent an hour defending him and now you're second-guessing yourself. You've always done that. If he knows the whole story and he still wants to go out with you, then obviously he cares about you and not your sexual experience."

"So, should I call him back?"

"He's the one who left the message?"

Jes nodded.

"Then, yes, please! I'll go finish getting ready. Come find me when you're done." She kissed Jes on the cheek. "It'll be fine. Love you!" Jacquie skipped out of the room.

Jes thumbed her phone and looked to Minion. "What do you think?"

Minion hopped off the bed. "Prouff." She rolled around on the floor.

"Well, you're helpful." Jes said as she hit Antonio's name in her contact list.

It began ringing as Jacquie shouted from the bathroom. "Will you stop asking the damned cat for advice and call him already?!"

"Call who already?" Antonio's voice came over the speaker, smooth as silk, causing to jump.

"Uh, hi!" She stammered.

"Hi yourself. So who's Jacquie talking about?"

"You." Jes whispered.

"So you were asking the cat if you should call me?"

"Uh…"

"It's okay, baby. I'm glad you called." He sounded happy. "I take you got my message?"

"Yeah." She felt like she was sixteen again.

"Why you acting all shy all of a sudden?" Antonio laughed. "It's me. You don't have to be shy around me."

"I know." Jes sighed. "I guess I was surprised you asked to call."

"Ah. Yeah. I guess I could've been a little clearer. Nothing's wrong. Uh, I know that Kevin's taking Jacquie out tonight and Jay's busy dealing with paperwork…"

"Yeah."

"How would you like to come over? I can teach you how to grill. Like I promised."

"Is this that date you were talking about?" Jes asked tentatively.

"Not that surprised one, but we could count this as a date. I still want to take you somewhere special."

"Okay. Sounds good. Uh, what time should I be there?"

"Whenever you're ready."

"Okay, I'll uh, just change and head out. See you in about half an hour?"

"Sounds good."

"See you soon, Antonio."

"Definitely babe." Antonio blew a kiss over the phone before ending the call.

"Well, I guess I should change." Jes said to herself.

"Well?" Jacquie had reappeared in the doorway.

"He, uh, wants… invited me over to teach me how to grill."

"Oh. Well, then…" Jacquie pointed at her outfit. "I don't think your PJs are appropriate attire for a BBQ."

"Thanks Captain Obvious."

"Kevin's here. Just wanted to tell you not to wait up."

Jes cocked her head to the side as she made her way to her closet. "Are we planning on being frisky again?"

"Who knows? What about you?"

"It's dinner, Jacquie. No sex."

"Okay, well… have fun. Don't do anything I wouldn't do!" She shouted as she ran towards the front door to grab a jacket.

"So basically, I can do anything?" Jes shouted back.

"Ha ha!" Came the sarcastic response as the front door closed.

Jes turned back to her closet. "Now, what to wear?"

It took about 10 minutes before she settled on a vibrant purple tunic and a pair of jean leggings. She added her signature knee-high black wedge boots and simple jewellery to round out her whole outfit. She quickly applied light make-up. After a final check in the mirror, she grabbed her keys and headed out.


TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR


Antonio had been unsure about asking Jes over for a grilling lesson, but he was glad he had. He'd tidied up the minor mess that had been left behind by Diego and Eva. He took a quick shower. He wasn't sure of what would happen tonight, but he wanted to be ready. He changed into a pair of black jeans and a deep blue t-shirt. He was pulling the steaks from the fridge when the doorbell rang. He took a deep breath and went to answer it. He was disappointed when he opened the door.

"Laura?" He looked around. "What the fuck are you doing here? Where are the kids?"

"At home." Laura crossed her arms. "What's this about you hiring a tutor for Diego and Eva?"

"Did you seriously drive all the way here to bitch me out because I care about our children's education?"

"You didn't ask me."

"I don't have to. You're not paying for it." He snapped.

"I don't care. They don't need it."

"Seriously? They asked and you're saying no?"

Laura nodded.

"Too fucking bad. They're getting help. I won't let our divorce fuck up their lives."

"They're not gonna get tutored by some bimbo either!" She retorted.

"She's not a bimbo! She's a teacher." He was furious. "Wait, I don't need to justify to myself to you! You walked out on me! You ended it!"

"Because you were never there! Your job trumped us. My children never had a father." Her voice was venomous. "You can't just pretend to be a dad whenever…"

"Stop right there!" He shouted. "You bitch! You spiteful bitch! I'd give me life for them. I would've given my life for you. I don't care what lies you tell people or the judge, our children are my life. I'm using my days with them to make sure they stay on top of their school. Now leave!"

"But…"

"No, Laura. No! Leave. Go date the next moron of the week, and yes, I know about the guys."

Laura, speechless, turned on her heel and stomped off. She crashed into Jes as she stomped to her Jeep. "Watch where you're going!" Laura slammed the door and tore off down the street.

Jes stood in shock in the middle of the driveway. Antonio rushed to her side. "You okay, baby?" He asked.

"Uh, yeah. I think." She pointed to the disappearing taillights. "Who the fuck was that?"

Antonio shook his head. "That… was Laura. My ex-wife."

"Oh…" Jes wasn't sure what to say. "What did she want? Are Eva and Diego okay?"

"They're fine. Let's go inside… I'll tell you the rest in the house. Don't want to risk her coming back and flipping her shit…"

"Sure. Um, here… I didn't know if red or white would be best, so I bought both."

"You didn't have to." He took her hand and they started to make their way to the house.

"Well, you're teaching me to grill, the least I could do is bring the wine." She replied as Antonio closed the door.

He took the bottles from her and placed them on the table next to the door. "Let's start over." He kissed her. "Hi."

"Hi." She smiled as warmth filled her cheeks.

"I'm glad you could come." His smile was captivating.

"I'm glad you invited me, Detective. I'm glad to see you're a man of your word. So, food?"

"Sure." He laughed. "Lead the way."

As he showed her how he marinated and dry rubbed the steaks, he explained his latest confrontation with Laura.

"So she accuses you of being a dead-beat dad and she doesn't want you to get a tutor for your kids?"

Antonio sighed and nodded. "Pretty much."

"What a bitch!" She covered her mouth. "Oops."

"Hey, I'm a cop. I've heard much worse things."

"I don't even know her. She's the mother of your children, but from what you're telling me… pisses me right off. She sounds like my mom when she divorced my dad."

"I'm sorry, baby." He wrapped her arms around her. "This is supposed to be a fun night."

"It is. So steak and what else?" She asked. "For me, food is fun."

"What do you recommend? Jacquie said living with you is like being in the Iron Chef kitchen or something."

Jes covered her face. "Oh my God! I can't believe she told you that."

"Why are you embarrassed?" Antonio took her hands in his. "I think that your generation tends to lack that skill."

"My generation?" She snickered.

"You know what I mean." He stroked her cheek. "So what sides do you recommend?"

Jes did an inventory of Antonio's fridge and pantry. "I see you're actually stocking your kitchen."

"I have to now. Never know when I'll have company."

"You're sneaky, Detective."

"Did I ever tell you how much I love it when you call me that?" He whispered.

"Oh, really?" Jes feigned being coy.

"Yes. So sides?" Antonio had to change the subject. As much as he wanted to give into his carnal urges, he had to give Jes time.

"I make this awesome cheesy baked potato and we could grill some of that corn. I also can whip up a quick salad."

"You think fast on your feet. You know that?"

"As a teacher, I had to. I think it'll be the same for running the youth centre."

"Fair enough. You teach me the way of sides and once they're ready, we'll grill."

The two laughed and talked. Jes felt completely at ease with him. Antonio hadn't felt this good in years. It felt like he had known Jes for years, not just a couple months. He laughed as she screamed when the flames flared up on the grill when she put the steaks down.

"Jesus!" She yelped.

"Hey, baby, it's okay. That's normal." He held her.

"I told you, I'm not good at this."

"You're amazing." He whispered in her ear. "I'm so happy you came."

"You've mentioned that before. I was looking forward to our date night."

"This isn't the surprise I have planned baby."

"I know, but this still counts as a date." She was struggling internally to not jump him. Her hormones were racing. She was also struggling with her feelings towards Antonio. She shouldn't care about him this much. She thought it was too soon, but she also hoped he felt the same way.

Antonio had so much he wanted to tell her. He felt happy with her. He was willing to lay his life down for her. 'Woah!' He thought to himself. 'I'm falling for her.' He had to restrain himself from letting her know. He didn't want to scare her off.

If either of them knew how the other felt, it would've been that much easier.

"Do you think Erin will tell Jay?" Jes asked as they tided up after they had eaten.

"Who knows?" Antonio was worried about that particular situation. "How pissed will your brother be if he finds out that we're seeing each other?"

"I don't know. I've never dated before, well…"

"What happened six years ago don't count."

"So we're dating?" She asked tentatively as she sipped her wine. Maybe it was the wine talking.

"Do you want us to be?"

"Questions with questions, Detective?" She giggled, finishing her wine.

"Sure. I'd like us to be dating, but only if you want and are ready to."

"I'd really like that. I'm just not how to date." Her shyness was coming back with a vengeance.

"There's no right or wrong, baby. We just have to work on it."

"You're worried about something." She touched his arm softly. "You can talk to me. I'm a good listener."

He led her to the couch. "My job. It's not easy. It's not exactly healthy for a relationship."

"You think teaching is?" She took his face in her hands. "There's no job under the sun that's beneficial to a relationship, but from what my dad used to tell me before the divorce, a relationship is built on trust, respect, love and honesty. Now I know that your job isn't easy and there will be things that you can't talk about. I get that, but if you can be honest with me, I'm willing to make everything work."

"Won't you worry about me?"

"Yeah, but I also worry about Jay. I know there's risks, but you have to be open in a relationship."

"I can live with that." He kissed her deeply.

Her body pushed into his. She gently nibbled his bottom lip. He moaned. Their bodies were pushed tightly together. His hands slid to her hips and he pulled her onto him. Jes was straddling him as he began to kiss her neck and into her collarbone.

"Antonio." She gasped. She pulled at his t-shirt.

Just then the doorbell rang.

Jes yelped. Antonio reached behind the couch to move the curtains. "Shit. Now what does she want?"

Jes slid from her lap. "Laura's back?"

Antonio nodded. "Go wait for me in the kitchen. She's the last person I want knowing about us." The doorbell rang again, incessantly this time. "I'm coming."

Jes did as Antonio asked. He went to the door. He took a deep breath and opened it. There on his doorstep stood not only Laura, but also Diego and Eva. "What's going on?" He asked as calmly as he could manage.

"My friend's mom is really sick, and I'm going with them to be with her."

"Just like that?" Antonio was suspicious.

"It's not like the woman just decided 'Hey, I'm gonna start dying today'." She crossed her arms. "Can you watch the kids while I'm gone?"

"Yeah. How long will that be?"

"A week, week and a half?" She tapped her foot impatiently. She looked at the driveway. "Whose car is that?" Her tone suggested she was jealous. "You already sleeping around?" She snapped.

"That's the pot calling the kettle black!" He paused. "Kids, go wait inside. Jes is here. She's looking at what your teachers sent me to get you guys caught up." The kids ran past him and he turned his attention back to Laura. "Jes is their tutor. I asked her to come over and see where the kids need to focus."

"So you're not banging her?"

"Unlike you, I'm waiting until our divorce is finalized. Though I have my suspicions that you were doing this long before you up and left. Plus she's Jay's sister."

"Whatever." The car horn honked from the street. "I've gotta go. I'll let you know when I'm back."

Antonio didn't even get a chance to reply because Laura was gone. He shut and locked the door. "Guys?"

"Kitchen!" Diego shouted.

Antonio made his way back to the kitchen. Maybe he'd find a way to use Intelligence's equipment to find out what Laura was really up to. "What's going on in here?"

"We're talking school strategies." Jes grinned as Diego hugged her. "After they grilled me about us… specifically if you'd asked me out yet?"

"Yeah, about that…" Antonio laughed nervously. "They kinda suggested it. Seems like neither of us were good at hiding our feelings."

"Understatement of the year, Daddy." Eva quipped.

The four were laughing and enjoying making scratch made popcorn when Antonio's cell began to ring. He looked at the caller ID. It was Jay. "Oh shit!"

"Who is it?" Jes asked.

"Your brother."

"Uncle Jay doesn't know?" Eva looked between her father and Jes.

Both adults shook their heads.

"Answer it." Jes was worried. "He'll get suspicious."

Antonio nodded and made a sign to the others to be quiet. "Hey Jay."

"Do you know where Jes is? I just stopped by her place and I ended up… uh… walking in on Atwater and Jacquie."

"Oh, well, Jes is here. Laura dumped the kids off and I hired Jes to catch them up on the school they missed because of the divorce proceedings."

"Can't asked for anyone better to help them. Alright, uh, can I talk to her quick?"

"Why didn't you just call her?"

"Phone's going to voicemail."

"Ah. Here she is." Antonio handed her his cell.

"Hey, Jay. Sorry, my cell died. I forgot to grab a charger. What's up?"

"I was gonna take you out for supper tonight, but you're helping Eva and Diego. That's more important."

"I'm sorry Jay."

"Hey, you're helping kids. It's what you were born to do. Maybe another night?"

"Definitely. Love you big brother."

"Love you too sis. Thanks for helping Antonio and the kids."

"He did keep me safe. I owe him."

"Alright. Well, night."

"Night, Jay." She ended the call. "That was close."

"You're telling me." Antonio took his phone back and put it in his pocket.

"So, why don't we want Uncle Jay knowing about you two?" Eva questioned.

"Because he doesn't want me dating a cop."

Diego snorted. "That's a stupid rule."

"We agree with you, son." Antonio ruffled Diego's hair.

Jes looked at her watch. "I should be going."

"No way." Antonio took the keys from her hands. "Not with the amount of wine we've both consumed."

"He's got a point." Eva grinned.

"Fine." Jes surrendered. "Let me tidy up in here."

"I'll get these two to bed. It's still a school night." Antonio turned to the kids. "Say 'good night' to Jes, guys. She'll be here when you get up."

After a round of hugs and 'good nights', Eva and Diego were off. When Antonio returned, he hugged Jes. "Shall we hit the hay?"

"Guest room all made up?"

"No. I uh, was thinking, or rather hoping… that you would stay with me… in my bed."

"Won't that be weird? Since it was the bed you shared with Laura?"

"Got rid of it and got a new one… for my new life."

"What about the kids?"

"You saw them, Jes. They're fine. Are you worried about… us being intimate?"

"Uh, sorta, just don't want to screw up what we have."

"Baby, we'll go at your pace." He kissed her.

"Then, let's go to bed." She let him lead the way to his bedroom.


TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR


The next morning…

Jes was awake before the alarm sounded. They'd agreed on getting up at 6 so Jes could make them breakfast.

"I'd like you to come with me to bring the kids to school."

"Why?" Jes asked as she sifted flour into a stand mixer.

"As their tutor, you might have to pick them up every now and then, especially if I can't." He wrapped his arms around her. "Plus, since we're dating, I think it's only right."

"Mmm, wait… you have to be pre-approved to pick them up from their school? That doesn't happen in Canada, unless it's a fancy prep school."

"Their school is a semi-private Catholic school. They take the students' safety seriously."

"Ah, well then. Okay."

"I'm pretty sure Laura's 'friend' is already added to the list. I'd prefer someone I can trust."

"I'll gladly help out. I adore your kids."

"We like you too!" Diego's voice came from the kitchen doorway.

"Smells really good in here." Eva smiled.

"Don't you guys look good." Jes pointed to their uniforms. "Well, at least you guys don't have to spend hours picking out your outfits."

"What's for breakfast?" Diego sat at the table.

"Always thinking with your stomach, huh, son?" Antonio laughed. "Ask Jes. She's the chef."

"Apple cinnamon pancakes with bacon."

"Wow!" Eva took a whiff of the plate that Antonio placed in front of her. "Looks really good."

Diego wasted no time inhaling his portion.

"Jes?"

"Yeah, Eva?"

"Could you teach me to cook like this?"

Jes looked to Antonio. She was in shock. "Uh, sure sweetie. Whenever we're not doing school stuff."

"Thanks. Mom… doesn't seem to have the time anymore." Eva whispered.

Jes felt for the Dawson children. She knew and understood what they were going through. She also knew what it was like to have someone attempt to replace a parent. She didn't want to try and replace Laura. She glanced at Antonio. He mouthed that they'd talk about it later.

"Alright." Antonio broke the pained silence. "Grab your bags, we'll go to school. Don't want you guys to be late."

Diego and Eva thanked Jes for breakfast and did as Antonio asked. He turned back to Jes. "We'll take your Journey so they record all your info at the school."

"What about you getting to work on time?"

"I'll call Voight. He's been good since the divorce news broke." He handed her her phone. "I charged it for you."

She gave him a quick pack. "You didn't have to do that."

"Yes I did. Now I recommend calling Jay. You've got about ten missed calls from him."

He went to put dishes away. Jes called Jay. "Hey."

"Hey, you at home?"

"Uh, no. Antonio asked me to pop by and go with him to take the kids to school. He wants me added to their authorized pick-up list."

"Ah. Yeah. How 'bout we do lunch today?"

"Sure. Want me to pick you up at the district?"

"Sounds like a plan. See you at lunch."

She ended the call and grabbed her stuff. Then the four of them headed to her Journey to get to school.


TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR


Lunch with Jay had been good. He had been mortified to walk in on Jacquie and Kevin, but he said that at least someone was happy. He asked how the kids were doing. Jes explained the situation with Laura, without dropping hints that she had witnessed the incidents with Laura. Jay was pissed with Laura. He explained how she'd reacted when Antonio had been shot during Pulpo's escape. Jes had to pretend to be shocked, but she knew the whole story. Antonio had told her while they had cooked the steaks. She wished that Jay hadn't been so anal about her dating anyone but a cop. She really liked Antonio. Once she'd dropped Jay back off at the District, she headed home. She was preparing her meat sauce recipe when the doorbell rang. She rinsed her hands and went to answer it.

"Jes!" The Dawson siblings greeted her enthusiastically.

Jes looked to Antonio behind them. "Hey guys. What's up?"

"Well, they wanted help prepping for some catch up exams that they've been told have to be done by the end of the month."

"Ah, sure thing. Well come on in guys. We'll set up in the kitchen."

They took off their coats and shoes. "Smells good in here." Diego pointed out.

"I'm making meat sauce to go with baked rigatoni for supper."

"Sounds amazing." Eva gushed. She really did want to learn how to cook.

Jes smiled. "Antonio, is it okay if I show Eva my recipe and stuff before we get to the books?"

"Sure. I'll help Diego out with his science stuff."

They headed into the kitchen.


TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR


Once Jacquie had returned from searching out necessary equipment for the youth centre, the group sat down for dinner. While Antonio cleared away the leftovers and dishes, Jacquie and Jes helped catch the kids catch up. It was around 10 when the District Commander called Antonio personally. When he came back from the call, his mood had changed.

"Uh, Jes, can I ask a favour?"

"Anything." Jes sensed his worry. "What's wrong?"

"A bad case just came up. Kid got shot. All hands have been called out." Antonio grabbed his coat. "Can the kids stay here with you?"

Jes nodded. "Definitely. I'll take care of them. Go. It'll be fine."

Antonio kissed her and hugged the kids. "Do whatever Jes asks you guys. I'll call as soon as I know something."


TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR*TR


When it had been decided that Atwater and Ruzek were going undercover as convicts, Voight needed someone in as a guard. Having spent a majority of his police career undercover, Antonio was selected. He packed his things. He quickly called Jeslyn. He'd have to give her the Cliff Notes version. He had to get MCC before Atwater and Ruzek. His cover needed to be more secure.

"Hey, Antonio. Everything okay?"

"Uh, not really. Baby, I have to go undercover."

"It's that bad."

"Yeah. Can't give all the details, but if we don't do this, the killer's gonna walk and that little girl will never have justice."

"Do what you've gotta do." Jes understood him. "I'll take the kids to get some changes of clothes and stuff. They're safe with me."

"I wouldn't doubt that for a second."

"Be safe, Antonio."

"Always. I'll call you when this is over."

"Okay. Get these monsters."

"We always do. Take care baby." He ended the call. He wanted to tell her how much he appreciated this. How much she meant to him. That he loved her.

He headed out to MCC. Hopefully this undercover wouldn't take too long.


A/N: There you go guys. Don't worry… steamy stuff soon to come. If anyone's following, this is right before the 3-way cross over with Fire and Law and Order SVU. Hope you enjoyed it. Lots of love!