A/N- Omggg guys this chapter is insane. Hope you all like it . Btw check out the new cover for the story drawn by yours truly. Credit of inspiration comes from a sketch I saw on pinterest. That, all chapter updates, and any other art works will be posted on tumblr with the # Edward Nygma x Sara so check it out. BTW this chapter also contains a small TRIGGER WARNING for certain people.

Things were going great for Sara. She had already been on a second and third date with Ed. For their second they went to get Thai Food for dinner. The third date was spent getting breakfast and strolling in Robinson park. When she wasn't spending time with Ed she had girl time with Sofia. They had become extremely close very fast due to the fact that neither had many other female friends.

Sara was in the cafe today but she spent most of the day lost in thought. Things were turning out great for her in Gotham. She no longer was the same person from Central City. With December approaching in a few days she knew she would be going home for the holidays.

The day dragged on slowly as Sara attended to her usual duties. Monday was the day that she heavily cleaned the baking area but she had skipped out on it yesterday. Instead of going home before seven she didn't leave the cafe until ten after eight. Within twenty minutes she was walking up to her apartment. As she went to unlock the door she noticed it was already opened. The air suddenly felt thick. Maybe I left the door unlocked by accident Sara tried to convince herself. The other half of her wanted to go running the opposite way. Breath, she thought, let's just go inside. It was probably me forgetting. Carefully she peeled the door open only to be greeted by darkness. She sighed, closed the door, and reached to turn the light on. When the light was on she was able to see the man sitting on her couch.

"I was wondering when you get home. It was starting to get late." Sara felt like she could faint after hearing whose voice it was speaking to her, "Wha-what are you doing here?" she tried her best to put on a brave face. Carl Pinkney was in her house. He quickly stood up and walked up to her at the same time as Sara was trying to make a run back towards the door but he managed to grab her wrist.

"I came for you sweetie. I know you were just putting on a show in public. I forgive you for that."

With her free hand Sara attempted to take her cell phone out but he noticed in the corner of his eye the movement.

"Ah ah ah not so fast. We aren't done here. We didn't even begin." he put her phone in his right back pocket.

Sara was about to try screaming in hopes of a neighbor hearing her when she suddenly found a hand covering her mouth. You need to get out of here she thought. He's dangerous. Sara tried to fight him as he lowered her on the floor but he was so much stronger than her. Strategic planning, Sara that's what you need right now. Carl then took out a bandana and gauged her mouth so he could hold both of her arms. Sara tried her best to kick and squirm underneath him but it wasn't working. He began pulling up the sides of her raspberry sweater and fingering the rim of her bra. The thought of what he was trying to do made bile fill in her throat.

"You should have just went out with me.. after that first date, I knew I had to have you. You pretend to be all innocent… but I bet you fuck like a slut."

The more he spoke the more Sara struggled to fight him off. Since she had no free hands she did the only thing she could think of: bite him. She bit down hard into the side of his face until she tasted iron. He yelped loud in pain, "to think I was going easy on you. If you wanted pain you should have said so."

He let her left hand go and brought his own hand up to smack her across the face. Sara couldn't help wincing from the pain. She'd never been hit by a man before. This was definitely going to leave a mark. Before she could even use her left arm to fight he was already gripping it again but harder this time. In the same moment Carl accidently shifted just enough to give Sara some leg movement. She lifted her knee up as hard as she could, making contact with his crotch. He quickly freed her hands to clutch his balls in pain. Without even thinking Sara took off running out the door while removing the bandana from her mouth.

She banged on her neighbor's door until Ms. Rodriguez answered. "Please! Call 911!" Sara shouted at the woman. Ms. Rodriguez invited her inside and Sara quickly locked the door.

"Are you okay?" Sara shook her head and tried to keep her guard up in case he followed her here.

The next few minutes seemed like seconds. Soon she could hear the familiar sound of a knocking on the door and a gruff voice saying it was the GCPD.

Ms. Rodriguez opened the door to reveal Jim Gordon and his partner to Sara. Jims face dropped when he saw it was her. "Sara, we didn't know it was you. I'm going to need you to explain everything that happened to me." he said walking over, "Bullock I need you to call Ed." The other man sucked his teeth but still went out into the hallway.

~~~~~~ ( Ed's POV ) ~~~~~~

Work was fairly easy ever since I got back into the swing of things. Today I finished earlier and was able to get home closer to five. After making a small meal I settled on the couch and put on forensic files. After going back to work I appreciated relaxing at home more.

I didn't realize I had fallen asleep until the sound of my phone woke me up. Unknown number.

"Hello?" I answered with sleep still in my voice.

"Hey Nygma" Bullock? Why would he ever call me, "Jim asked me to call you."

"Why? Do you guys need me for forensics?"

"Uh not really. It's the girl you're always around, forgot her name, but yeah if you could come over to her apartment that would be great."

I muttered a short ok before hanging up quickly. A thousand thoughts were going through my head at the same time. Why would the GCPD be there? I hurried to my car and sped off in the direction of Sara's house. I was so glad it was only a ten-minute ride.

When I arrived, outside was two cop cars parked outside. I quickly ran in and made my way up the two flights of stairs to her apartment. I knew I must've looked crazy charging in. My dark green shirt had been untucked while my hair was out of place from napping on the couch but all that mattered was seeing if she was safe. Before I could reach her door, Jim Gordon called my name from her neighbor's house.

I backtracked and entered her neighbor's apartment where I saw Sara sitting on a chair. Her hair was messier than mine while her eyes were stained with tears and black makeup. Her cheek had to be the worse as it was red and covered with a forming purple bruise. The second she saw me she rushed up to my open arms. We stood with my arms wrapped around her body and my hands in her hair for at least five minutes. I was the first the break the silence, "what happened Sara?"

"I went home... and Carl Pinkney was there. He-he was trying to rape me… but I hit him, got away, and came here."

I tried my best to hide my anger. There would be another time for that. Right now, Sara needed me to be there for her. She let out a small sob as she clung to me.

"Shh, it's okay. I'm here now." I softly rubbed her back hoping it would make her feel better. This was the first time I ever had to comfort someone. When she felt a tiny bit better we sat down to wait for the investigation to cease. Not too long after Jim Gordon came back in.

"Hey, hope you're feeling better Sara. Anyway, we finished up with everything. When you ran into here he must have ran out of the building but I promise we'll catch him on the streets. For now, try to just relax and get some rest."

Sara nodded to him while I thanked him for being with her and calling me. We walked out into the hallway and Sara halted before entering her apartment.

"I don't want to be here." she said quietly.

"Come on, let's go." I made sure her door was locked before leading her to my car. Neither of us cared that we didn't bother wearing coats. The ride there was short and quiet. I felt like she needed the silence. When we arrived, I went straight into my bedroom to get her out some pjs to change into and an extra towel.

"Go take a shower, you'll feel better after. Then we can hangout." I practically begged her. I didn't like seeing her upset like this.

She gave me a small half smile before thanking me and going into the bathroom. First thing at work tomorrow I'm going to get Carl's file. Then when I get home I'll start tracing him. Once I find him I'll be a hero to her.

You need to get revenge. He purposely hurt her.

I do need to do something about this. I could show Sara how much she means to me with this by stopping this guy.

He was probably the one who got you jumped! I had a feeling about it from the start. We need to do something now!

Calm down. Sara's here so nothing is happening now. Tomorrow I'll deal with it. She'll never have to be scared of him again.

So, typical of you to just back down. Never the one to stand up to anything.

"Leave me alone!" I exclaimed out loud. I swear tomorrow I will deal with it.

I was disrupted by the sound if the shower turning off. I hope Sara didn't hear any of that. I quickly went to change into my own pjs. I walked back out to see Sara coming out of the bathroom.

"Hey." I couldn't help admiring her before replying. I loved the way she looked in my clothes. Even with red eyes and a bruise on her face I still found myself at a loss for words. We sat on the couch and I handed her the dark green and black mug.

"What is this?" I couldn't read into her expression to tell if she liked it or not.

"Valerian Root Tea. It's used for relaxing. Studies say that valerian increases the amount of a compound known as gamma aminobutyric acid in the brain, which regulates nerve cells and calms anxiety. I thought it could help."

Her face swelled with happiness, "I couldn't even begin to thank you for this Eddie," she put the cup down and pulled me into a hug, "I've never had someone around for me like you have."

"It's not a problem." I muttered into her wet hair. The scent of myself filled in my nose. We both drank our tea and Sara began to yawn.

"Want to hit the hay?"

"Ugh I don't know.."

"I can see that you're tired."

"Okay fine. Be right back."

As she brushed her teeth I washed the cups we used.

"I'm finished. It's all yours."

"Okay, you can go lay down and wait for me."

Once I cleaned my glasses and teeth I made my way into my room. It was completely dark besides the neon green light coming in from the window. I looked to see Sara curled under the blankets. With my glasses discarded on the side table, I laid down next to her.

I was just drifting off to sleep when a small voice woke me up, "Ed… are you still up?"

"Uh yeah I am. Why?"

"I can't sleep."

"How come?"

"Every time I close my eyes I see that… that monster standing over me."

"Come here." I whispered gently. She moved herself closer into my embrace. I slowly rubbed her back, "it's going to be okay. I promise."

"What if it's not?" she replied in a shaky voice.

"You're the strongest female I've ever had the honor of meeting."

She sighed, "Ed-"

"Nope, no fighting what you are."

"I don't feel strong. I feel scared and worried because he's still on street out there"

I squeezed her closer, "I'm here. Don't worry you're safe with me. Try to sleep."

"Okay, good night Ed."

"Sweet dreams my lovely." I whispered when she was asleep.

First thing I did the next morning was ensure that Sara was home and felt better. She was alright with facing her apartment and cleaning it up. From there I went straight to work. Since Sara was so worked up last night I never got to ask her the details of what happened. I could not stop my curiosity from signing out the file. It felt nice being able to see Ms. Kringle and feel nothing.

My next move was reading Carl's file. To find him I needed to know as much about him as I could. The only lead I had was that he took Sara's phone with him last night. I made copies of the information I found and prepared for my day of work.

The day seemed to drag on but eventually I was leaving at five. As soon as I got home I made no effort to even take off my shoes before going right into my spare room. When apartment browsing I knew I needed a two bedroom just to have a room for my computer stuff. The room was slightly smaller than my bedroom but still managed to fit everything. The walls were a dark brown with an almost black wood floor. I pushed my way passed the two tall bookcases that were overflowing with books and took my seat at the desk. The desk too was made from a darker wood.

First, I began by searching the system to see if Carl had checked into a hospital or done anything recently. My luck seemed to run out as I saw he was keeping low. With a single click his name was searched in all cities surrounding Gotham by twenty-five miles. Ugh nothing again. I pulled out the photo copied flies. At least I had Sara's number to tract. It took a little over ten minutes but I was able to pick up a location.

I grabbed my coat and drove off in my car to the direction of the narrows. The address I found was to an old rickety grey apartment building. I walked up the three flights of stairs being cautious of every step. I felt as if I could fall through them at any moment. This place overall was disgusting. It had not been cleaned in over a decade and the smell of pee lingered everywhere. I don't think anyone had lived here in a long time.

Once up the stairs I went straight to apartment 3C. I didn't want to knock in case he was inside but I was unlucky to uncover it was already unlocked. Another puzzle I didn't get the opportunity to solve. I looked around the hallway, I'm sure no one would mind if I invited myself in. Careful to create little noise I inched my way inside. I flipped on the light to see there was electricity in a shit hole like this!

I quickly analyzed the whole room. It was obvious that someone had been living here. The table was scattered with photos and papers. I leaned down closely to see the photos were of Sara. They assorted from her in the cafe, to being with Sofia, and even one of her with me. We were walking in the park and both looked happy. I quickly slipped the photo in my pocket and continued examining the room.

On an old torn up couch a jacket was thrown over it. I searched the pockets to find exactly what I was looking for, Sara's phone. This must be where he has been staying. Okay plan is going through. I shut off the light and took a seat in the cleanest looking chair. He was bound to show up eventually. While I waited I played Tetris on my phone. Near ten I heard the sound of someone coming up to the door. I shoved my phone in my pocket and prepared for the worst.

The door opened and I saw the shadow of someone walk in. It was him. Carl turned on the light and immediately saw me.

"What the fuck are you doing here?"

"I've come to retrieve you." I stood up to face him.

"This is a joke, right?"

"No sir, no joke. I will not have you on the streets to ever harm Sara again." I put specific emphasis on the word will.

"I'll give you the chance now to get the fuck out of here or you won't ever see Sara again."

"I'm not letting you get away." I gritted through my teeth as he took a step closer to me. Without even replying he took the opportunity to punch me in the stomach.

You're really going to let him embarrass you? Let me take over. Just give in…

I clutched my stomach while I thought over my options. There was only one thing I thought of that could end this all. Without overthinking it I gave in. Before rising and standing up, I pulled the knife I brought with me out of my pocket.

I lunged it into his stomach. I was only trying to keep him off me but one stab turned into the next.

"I begin and have no end. Eventually I will be the ending of all that has begun. What am I? … it's death." I laughed out loud at my own joke.

Once his body dropped to the ground I snapped out of the trance I was in.

"Oh dear."

I looked as the blood dripped down the knife onto my hands, "Oh dear this wasn't what I wanted to do." What I am I going to do now? Well at least this problem is solved. I began laughing at the thought of him never hurting Sara again all thanks to me. "Oh dear, what is Sara going to say?" I began pacing back and forth in the room. I could hide it from her but if she ever found out it would ruin everything we've built.

I looked around the apartment until I found a spare blanket. Once his body was wrapped in it, I began dragging it to my car. It took about twenty minutes but eventually he was packed inside the trunk.

"What to do, what to do.

Just tell her and get it over with.

But what if it scares her away.

Girls like being scared by guys.

No not Sara. I like her too much to do something like that.

She'll be too scared to even break things off with you.

NO! I said it's not happening.

You can't hide forever Eddie boy.

Honestly is important in relationships. If I want it to ever be a relationship I'll have to tell her."

Since Sara didn't have her phone, it was with me now, I decided on just driving to her house.

I felt extremely nervous as I approached her door. I knocked on the door and waited for a response. Maybe she wasn't even home but suddenly the door opened. Sara was in pjs and looked as if I woke her up, "Ed is everything ok?" she looked alarmed that I was there.

My hands were shaking slightly but I tried to keep my cool, "Umm.. I need t-to talk to you.."

"Sure, come inside."

As soon as the door was closed I turned to her, "Sara I did something bad." I told her in a low voice, "I swear I didn't mean to do it."

"Ed what are you talking about? What's all over your hands?"

"I-I wasn't trying to do it but things got out of hand ... I was just trying to do the right thing .. but he had to attack me."

Her face dropped, "who?"

"Carl Pinkney." it would be better telling her.

"What about him?"

"I killed him." it came out almost like a whisper.

She was silent for a few minutes, "what happened exactly?" I explained everything that happened in great detail.

"Why did you go looking for him? The cops could have found him."

My face filled with embarrassment, "I wa-wanted to be the one that did it… s-so he could never hurt you again."

"Ed I'm not worth going through all this trouble for. Now look at the mess you're in." she sighed at the end of her sentence.

I reached to grab her hands not caring that mine were covered in dried up blood, "you're worth much more."

Panic stroke her face, "what are you going to do now?"

"I'm not sure," I sighed, "I wanted to tell you first. I'm probably going to dispose of the body."

"How are you going to hide it?" I was very surprised that she was asking so many questions about it. Why hadn't she kicked me out yet?

"I umm think I'm going to take it to the Gotham City Cemetery and bury it."

"Why don't you just dissolve it in acid?"

"I don't want to have to break into the GCPD first and second it will smell so much that I don't want to answer any questions about it. We have a new medical examiner."

"Wow really? Thanks for the fill in."

I sucked my teeth at her, "When did you think it would have been a good time? So much has happened these past two days."

She shrugged her shoulders at me, "Would you need help?" she asked me a small voice.

"Nope! Not happening. I do not want you involved."

"I'm already involved." she rolled her eyes at me, "And hey I can make my own decisions so if I decide on helping a friend then I can!"

"Fine if you want to you can come be my lookout."

She squealed happily and went to change. I didn't think that by telling her she would become part of the crime. Once she had on jeans, a black sweater, and a green pea coat we went to my car. I let her listen to pop music because it made her happy. I felt a twinge of guilt because I was kind of excited to have her at my side. Most girls would freak out and make a run to tell the authorities.

Before we went to the cemetery we had to stop at a store for a shovel. Luckily the Home Depot didn't close until midnight. It was extremely awkward buying a shovel at eleven at night. At least most people don't ask questions because after all it is Gotham.

The ride to the cemetery was short due to the lack of traffic. We found the first random plot that had been freshly dug out. I made sure to open the door for Sara even though I was unsure of how she felt. When I saw the body in the truck my stomach tied in knots. I still couldn't believe that I did that.

"Please let me help." she piped from behind me.

"Ok, grab one end." we lifted the body out and carried it to the plot, "while I dig keep watch please."

"Of course."

I tried my best to dig quickly. The longer we were here, the more likely we were of being caught. It took fifteen minutes for me to reach the hard shell of the casket. My tall figure helped me crawl out without a problem.

"Can you help me carry him in Sara?"

"Sure." we both again grabbed an end and tossed the body in without unwrapping it.

"Just a few minutes and we'll be done." I was relieved when she returned my smile. Maybe this would work out. I kicked my thoughts aside to shovel the dirt back in. This was much faster than digging it out. Sara even helped by pushing the dirt in with her foot. It was just after midnight when we got back to my car.

"That was… exhilarating." Sara final said.

I couldn't help the shocked expression on my face, "Really? I honestly never imagined doing something like that."

"Yeah me too. My whole life always seemed to be a bore until I moved here."

"That can't be true."

"It was. That why I jumped at the chance to come here. Everything is so much more fun and exciting."

The drive back to her apartment was just as quick. When we were only a few blocks away Sara spoke up, "You know you could come up for a little bit, maybe wash up?"

"Ah are you sure?"

"Yeah, pretty positive."

"Well Thank you that would be lovely."

I parked and we made our way back upstairs to where this meeting had begun.

"I'm gonna make tea." Sara called out as I walked into the bathroom. I washed my hands thoroughly and looked at myself in the mirror. I felt different but looked like the same forensic dork.

When I walked outside Sara was sitting at her kitchen table waiting for me with the tea already done.

"So Sara could we talk?"

She shifted uncomfortably, "Yea sure."

I took the seat next her and she turned to face me, "I just want to know how I stand with you. I won't blame you if you never want to see me again but I really hope you don't because God I like you so much. The-" I was suddenly cut off by the feeling of her lips pressed against mine. Her hands were wrapped around my neck and in my hair. When I finally processed what was going on I brought my arms around her waist and pulled her closer to me. I made the move to deepen the kiss by running my tongue across her bottom lip. She opened her mouth to allow me access. We stayed like this battling each other's tongues and wrapped in each other's embrace until we needed to stop for air.

"Wh-why did you do that?" I asked still nervous.

"I know this might sound weird but knowing that you would track down a psychopath for me was a turn on. I had been trying to contain it since you came."

My face reddened as I smiled. I knew I looked like a ridiculous, love sick puppy but wow she was absolutely perfect, "So you want to continue this?"

She gave me a toothy grin, "Yes, I would love to."

"Okay wonderful."