We would like to thank ALL our loyal readers for your support while we have been away. In the next few weeks, you will see our stories being reposted here for all of you to read along with several NEW stories we've written while we've been away.

We appreciate all the kind messages we've received for our readers...we didn't realize how many of you were reading our stories, lol. It has brought HUGE smiles to us and we hope you'll continue to stick with us as we re-post some old favorites and hopefully new favorites. Thanks again!

CaineSpeedle & Speedfanatic05

Now for the good stuff!

**WARNING: STRONG SEXUAL CONTENT AND LANGUAGE! You Are Warned**

DISCLAIMER: We don't own any of the Miami characters and we're NOT making any money off of them!

SEQUEL TO: "Legacy Of Madness"

Pulling into the driveway of the address that Horatio had given her over the phone, Calleigh shut off the engine and looked towards the large house. Gone was the security fences and gates along with the bars on the windows that the rehab center had. Getting out and locking the car up, she stretched some and then headed up the walkway to the large porch. Going up the steps, she went to the door and knocked, hearing laughter and on the other side.

Smiling, she placed her sunglasses on top of her head and stepped back some as a woman opened the door and then the screen, "Hi, I'm Calleigh Duquesne. I'm here to see Ray."

Smiling, Sharon crossed her arms and arched a brow, "Well, he'll be happy to see you. He wasn't joking, he's going to be a father soon. Apparently very soon." Stepping aside, she chuckled, "Come on in honey, I'll go get him."

Going in, Calleigh stood aside as she closed the door back, and looked around some. Smiling, she looked to the woman, "I hope it's okay that I came by. I wasn't sure of the rules here really…besides not being able to bring anything."

"Oh don't worry, Ms. Duquesne, everything's okay." Coming closer, she sighed, "Now this is the part I hate. Do you have anything on you? Any syringes, medications, weapons of any kind?"

"No, nothing but my car keys," she replied as she took them out of her pocket and showed her. Licking her lips, she then reached into her back pocket, producing her badge and showed it to her, "I'm MDPD. I don't believe in using."

"That's good," Sharon responded with a smile. Presenting a clip board, she pointed, "Ms. Duquesne, I require you to sign a disclaimer. It states that you cannot hold the house responsible for any harm incurred while here. You are here on your own risk."

"No problem," Calleigh replied as she took the clipboard and signed where she needed to. Handing it back to her, Calleigh smiled, "I've got one question. I was wondering, is Ray allowed any art supplies, like acrylic paints, brushes and canvas? He loves to paint in his free time…he picked it up at rehab actually and did some really beautiful work there."

Sharon furrowed her brow and then smiled as she looked to her, "I don't think that will be a problem, he's been saying he wanted to do something else with his time. He's doing a lot as it is, he's started his volunteering and he's gone just about all day with that. When he comes back, he's busy doing something else. It's like he runs on batteries or something. He tires me out just watching him go."

Laughing some, Calleigh nodded, "I know how you feel." Looking up, Calleigh saw him standing and leaning against the doorway to another room. Giving him a smile, she took in a shaky breath as Sharon left her side and Horatio began to head towards her. Taking a few steps and closing the distance between then, they stopped in front of each other for a brief minute before Calleigh closed the distance, her arms going around him. "I've missed you…"

The feeling of her in his arms felt like total completion, as if a part of him had been missing. He held her as close as he could, the feeling of her small belly protruding causing his heart to flutter. A small sigh left his lips as he whispered into her ear, "I've missed you. I've missed you so much, Calleigh."

Hanging onto him, Calleigh's voice became soft, "I won't leave you again." After a few moments longer, his arms loosened around her and Calleigh pulled back some, looking up at him. Giving him a smile, she whispered, "I love you."

"I love you," he answered as he reached to move her hair away from her eyes. Gazing into them, he shook his head as if still in disbelief. A smile finally appeared and he exhaled lightly, "I'm glad that you're here. How was the ride? How are you feeling?"

"I'm good. We left early and took our time driving," Calleigh replied as she placed a hand onto her stomach. Reaching for his, she placed his there as well, feeling the small kicks from the baby, "Someone I think is wanting to say hello."

Feeling the little kicks, Horatio looked to her in amazement and then smiled, "She's got a fierce kick, doesn't she? She does this often?"

"A couple time's a day, but not for too long. The doctor said it's just her playing around and perfectly normal." Tilting her head and looking up at him, she smiled, "I think she's just excited to be near her daddy finally."

Horatio smiled and then felt all eyes on him. Clearing his throat, he whispered, "I think a little more privacy is in order. " Lifting from her, he turned to Sharon, "Would it be a problem for us to go to my room? I'll leave the door open."

"Actually, why don't you two take the den, it'll be a little more comfortable. I think Carl is gonna take the guys out to lunch and then to shot hoops afterwards, so yall will have some privacy…but I will be here." Sharon said with a raise of her brow at Ray.

Horatio chuckled and nodded, "That's code for behave myself. I will, I promise." Turning to Calleigh, he explained, "The den will be ours in a few minutes. The guys are going out."

"Okay." Giving him another smile as she looked up at him, she sighed, "You're looking good. Sharon said you'd been doing some volunteering now."

"It was time to get out and do something, I was going crazy doing nothing. It keeps me busy," Horatio responded as he returned her smile. Reaching for her hand, he arched a brow, "So, I hear that you're still busy as ever."

Smirking, Calleigh sighed and nodded, "Yeah, kinda. I got my lab back in order finally and been working a lot of cases. Tim let me come back…part time only though. It's better then sitting at home though." Walking with him to a different area of the house, she looked back up at him, "Sharon said I could bring you some paints and all…that is if you want me to."

"I would love it if you did. I really miss painting. It helped to center me," Horatio nodded and then looked to her, "Did you like your finished product? Harry sent it off for me."

"I did, it's beautiful. I put it up in my room," she replied softly as they came to a couch. Taking a seat, she watched as he sat down next to her. Taking his hand, she looked into his eyes, "I'm sorry I haven't been here for you more. I want that to change though…I want to be here for you."

"You're here for me now and that's what counts, Calleigh." Squeezing her hand, he stared at them as he sighed heavily, "I've done so much, Calleigh and I've come so far. I think I'm ready to come home."

"Only if you're sure you're ready for that. If so, I can find someone for you to talk to there, if that'll help you some," she said as she watched him. "I don't want to see you fall back because of the temptations in Miami."

Giving her a smile, he nodded and stared into her eyes, "I have something else that I desire more than drugs. I want to be apart of my family's life. I want to live the rest of my life with you and watch our daughter grow. I want that most of all."

Her smile grew, and Calleigh leaned over to him, giving him a hug, "And we want you there with us, Handsome. We need you there with us."

Holding on to her, he breathed outwardly and closed his eyes, relishing the feel of her warmth in his arms. It had been so long since he'd felt her, he didn't know if he could let her go. Taking in a deep breath, the aroma of her shampoo surrounded him and he smiled, "Still using the same shampoo…I miss that."

Snickering some, she whispered, "It's my favorite. I washed my hair before I left this morning." When she pulled back, she reached up and caressing his cheek, "I want us to have a new start. And I want us to be able to work through any problems that may come up. I'm tired of fighting."

"I am too. All I could think about when I was in rehab was you. I missed your smile, your laugh…all because I didn't know how to communicate. I've learned how to do that now." Reaching to caress her face, he sighed, "I don't have any more fight left in me, Cal."

Shaking her head, she whispered, "Yes you do…you've been fighting to get us back…and you have." Leaning into his touch, she closed her eyes, "I always knew you could beat this."

"It took all I had. I was determined to beat this so that I could get my life back." Horatio stared into her eyes and smiled, "All that hard work has paid off."

"Yes it has," she whispered as she stared into his blue eyes. Seeing the clarity and determination in them, she sighed, "How long do you have to stay here?"

"I have another month and then I'm free to go," Horatio answered happily. "All I have to do now is complete volunteering and then go through another session before they release me. I'm on track though."

"That's good then. Maybe you'll be able to go to my next doctor's visit then." Reaching into her back pocket, Calleigh pulled out a long folded paper and handed it to him, "This was my first ultrasound. I thought you might would like to see your daughter."

Taking the ultrasound in hand, he looked over it and tried to make sense of it, the face becoming clear. Speechless, he blinked rapidly and asked quietly, "That's…that's our little girl?"

"It is." Leaning against him, she smiled and pointed, "And that there is her hand…and there is a foot." Glancing to him and seeing him staring at the pictures, she whispered, "the only thing we don't know is if she'll have her daddy's hair color."

Horatio smiled and shook his head, "Well, let's hope that she has her mother's hair. I'd hate for her to go through what I went through in school. Children are relentless with the way they pick on each other." Looking at the picture again, he smiled more, "I'd love her no matter what color her hair has."

Turning her head to him, she whispered, "We have to come up with a name for her, ya know? We can't go around calling her baby her whole life."

"True…do you have any suggestions?" Horatio asked as he arched his brow.

Thinking, Calleigh shook her head, "Not really. I've been trying to think of some, but haven't really found any I liked."

"Well, I've always like Holly, but…we can always think of more. I can get a book and start thinking about more names."

"Alexx told me one the other day, I just wasn't sure about it, Cerise." Calleigh replied as she looked back at the pictures. "She said it's actually a color of red, but, she also thinks the baby will be a strawberry blonde."

"Cerise, I like that. It's…unique." Placing a hand on her stomach, Horatio smiled widely, "So Alexx thinks that she's going to be a strawberry blonde, that's interesting."

Shrugging some, Calleigh looked at him, "Genetically it is a possible. I guess we'll just have to wait and see though." Looking up and seeing Sharon standing there, Calleigh smiled some and nodded to Horatio, "I think you're wanted."

Horatio looked over to Sharon and nodded, "I'll be right back, Calleigh." Getting up, he made his way to Sharon and asked, "What's up?"

Raising a brow, Sharon kept her voice down, "Carl and the other's just left. They won't be back for a couple hours…if you want, you and the young lady can use the kitchen for lunch. Just make sure to clean up."

With a smile, he nodded, "I can't thank you enough, Sharon. This means a lot to me." Going back over to Calleigh, he lifted his hand to offer it, "Care for something to eat?"

"Uh, sure…" Calleigh replied as she took his offered hand and stood up. Walking with him towards the kitchen, she looked up at him, "They don't let you leave here at all unless it's with one of them?"

"No. It's more of a precaution. We tend to get into less trouble if we're chaperoned. One of my housemates got out one night and they found him in an alley across from the church, dead. He overdosed over night." Horatio shook his head and sighed, "They just don't want to lose another one, you know?"

"Understandable. What if you're with someone from MDPD?" she asked as she stopped him and smirked. "What's safer then being with a police officer?"

"I think…I think that it would make all the difference. I'll ask Sharon if it's okay." Horatio started off but then turned to Calleigh, "Clever. I'll be right back."

"Okay," she smiled as she watched him go. Taking in a deep breath, Calleigh looked around some and then went back over, taking a seat again on the couch to wait for him.

Sitting at her desk doing paperwork, Sharon pushed her glasses up on her nose more and continued to write. Hearing a knock at the door, she looked up to see Ray standing there and smiled, "Everything okay, Ray?"

"Yeah, everything's fine. I was wondering… Calleigh's a police officer, she could sign me out. She's responsible…"

Taking off her glasses and setting them on her desk, Sharon raised a brow, "And she's also your girlfriend and the mother of your child." Getting up and coming around to the front of her desk, she leaned back against it, "And just where did you want to go with her?"

"Um…she didn't tell me, but she would never put me in a position where I'd be exposed to anything. I think she just wants to spend time with me away from here." Horatio ran a hand through his hair and looked away, feeling frustrated. The level of accountability was tremendous and overwhelming and it angered him that he didn't have the ability to leave if he wanted to. Exhaling, he attempted self control as he continued, "I'm sure we're not going far, Sharon."

Thinking about it for a moment, she raised a brow, "You know if I let you do this, you'll have to be searched when you return and have a urine test, right?"

"Yes, I understand. I'll be subjected to a search. It's protocol," Horatio responded as he glanced towards the den. A smile came and he chuckled, "She's worth the hassle."

Sighing, Sharon shook her head and went over to her file cabinet, "I sure hope so, Ray." Pulling out a couple forms, Sharon closed the drawer back and took them to her desk. Getting a pen and clipboard, she went over to him, "We've got paperwork to fill out then. Let's get out there and get it going."

Horatio nodded and escorted her out to the den. Looking to Calleigh, he smiled, "Cal…Sharon's going to allow this, but you're going to have to sign some papers."

"Oh…" Calleigh said surprised that he was gonna be allowed to go, "okay, not a problem. What do you need?"

Coming over to her, Sharon handed her the clipboard, "I just need for you to fill out these two forms. One is a release into your custody until curfew, which is nine pm, and the other is a waver saying we are not responsible if any accident occurs while Ray is out with you. As I told him, he'll have to be searched and have a urine test when he return's and he's agreed to it."

Looking to Horatio, Calleigh's brow furrowed, "Are you sure about this? I know you didn't like any of that at rehab."

"I want to do this, Calleigh. I want to spend more time with you, and in order to do that, we should go out." Turning to Sharon, he offered, "We'll be in before the curfew."

Nodding, Sharon watched as Calleigh filled out the paperwork and added, "You'll also need to put your badge number at the bottom when you sign. It's just incase anything happens while he's with you."

Doing as Sharon said, it didn't take Calleigh long to finish the two papers and she handed the clipboard back to her, "Will it be okay to get him his art supplies while were out?"

Taking the clipboard back, Sharon checked everything over, "Yes, but, we'll have to check them as well when Ray returns."

Catching Calleigh's wearied expression, Horatio shook his head, "It's alright, Cal. It's only to assure that I'm doing the right thing. I'm alright with it." He gave her a smile and reached for her hand, "I'm used to this, Calleigh. These rules are in place for my safety."

Standing up, Calleigh sighed, "Okay, well, if there's not anything else…are you ready to go then?"

"I am, but…where are we going?" Horatio asked, trying to hide his joy. Spending time with her away from the house was something he was looking forward to. Bringing her close, he continued, "Or is it a surprise?"

"How about lunch and we go from there. I'm getting hungry and so is the baby," she smiled as she rubbed her stomach.

Watching the two of them, Sharon smiled, "Well, you two have fun. Ray…I'll see you when you return."

"Alright, I'll see you when I get back, Sharon." Taking Calleigh's hand, he grinned, "Let's get out of here."

Walking with him to the door, they left out and went to her car. Unlocking it, Calleigh got in and looked over as he did the same. Giving him a smile, she put the keys into the ignition and started the car. Once they were belted in, she backed out and headed towards town, "Okay, so, since this is kinda like a celebration lunch, what would you like to eat?"

Gazing out of the window, Horatio turned to Calleigh and gave her an easy smile, "I really don't have a preference. It's been so long since I've been out to eat, I don't really have a taste for anything specific. Do you have anything specific that you're…ah…craving?"

Chuckling some, Calleigh glanced over at him, "I'm pregnant, I crave everything that I can eat. What about…" Pausing for a bit, she pursed her lips as she thought and glanced back at him, "What about seafood?"

"Seafood sounds good. Do you know where a restaurant is around here? My circle consists of the church and the house." Horatio glanced to the window and then to her again, "Hey, do you think we could go and check out the beach house? I haven't seen it in a long time. You said you and Tim cleaned it up?"

Smirking, Calleigh nodded, "Oh I think that can be arranged." Taking a turn, she glanced over at him, "I was hoping you wouldn't mind seafood. I got some fresh shrimp and two lobsters at the house. I thought we could eat there."

Laughing, Horatio asked, "You had this planned all along? What were you going to do if Sharon would've nixed the field trip?"

"Well…I'd have dinner for tonight and tomorrow for me," she smiled. "Just be glad she said yes. I hate eating alone anymore."

"Here's to neither of us eating alone." Relaxing more, he turned his focus back on the window watching the landscape pass by in a blur. It was surreal to be with her, but at the same time, he was cautious. He didn't want to say or do anything that would put their new start in jeopardy.

It wasn't long before the car found the dirt path and it began to wind down towards the sandy beach. Focusing on the house, he could see the lights and smiled as good memories began to surface. With a sigh, he looked to her and shook his head, "You are amazing, Calleigh. How long have you been here?"

Shutting off the car, she took off her seatbelt, "Since around five this morning. I woke up and couldn't get back to sleep, so I drive on down. I was taking a gamble on you being able to leave though. But…I think it was all worth it. You can relax in your home for awhile at least."

"Yeah, it's going to be nice." Staring more at the house, a different set of memories rushed him and he sighed, looking away. "The last time I was here, I tore the place down, in need of a fix."

Reaching over and placing her hand onto his, she gave it a squeeze, knowing this could be hard for him, "That is in the past now, Horatio. We have a future to look forward to now. Everything in there is back in order, just as it was before."

Returning her squeeze, he nodded, "Okay." He looked to her and nodded, "Let's get in there. Oh…did you cook already?"

"No. Not yet, why?" she asked as they started to get out.

Meeting her at the front of the car, he brought her close to him as they walked up the walkway and whispered, "I do believe I owe you a cooked meal. I can cook while you relax." Seeing her beginning to protest, he raised a hand to stave, "No, Cal, it's alright. Cooking will probably be good for me."

Not wanting to argue, Calleigh gave him a smile and raised a brow, "Okay, but, let me at least help some, Horatio. I can at least fix a salad."

"Sounds like a good idea." Coming to the door, he placed his hand on the knob and then pushed it open. The sight that greeted him took his breath away and he stepped in slowly, letting go of Calleigh's hand. Silently, he walked into the living room and stood, remembering the broken furniture that was now replaced. The shredded sheers were now hanging, moving slowly with the air that was blowing through the home. Everything was in its place almost as if nothing had ever occurred and it felt almost odd. Feeling her hand on his back, he turned to her and smiled lightly, coming out of his stupor, "Sorry…I didn't mean to zone out like that."

"It's okay, Horatio. I understand." Looking around some, she looked back up to him, "There was no way I could let it stay as it was. I knew one day you'd be back and seeing it that way wouldn't have been good for you."

"It looks like nothing's happened," Horatio said as he moved throughout the living room. Taking furtive glances at the furniture, he arched his brow, "You replaced the furniture?"

Shrugging some, Calleigh smirked, "I have connections. I hope you like it."

"It's nice. Connections huh?" Horatio nodded and smiled, "Remind me to thank your connections." Moving toward the kitchen, he gestured for her to follow, "Dinner calls, ready?"

"I'm starving," she laughed as she followed him. Going in, she went over and pulled out to glasses, "I made some fresh tea this morning, you want some?"

"I'd love some. I'll get the shrimp and lobster started." Watching as she moved, he licked his lips and exhaled, "It's nice to be back here. I missed the feeling of being able to do…anything."

Smiling as she went to the refrigerator, Calleigh placed the glasses down next to it on the counter, "Well, while you're here, you can. And if you want…if you're not busy tomorrow, I can come get you again and bring you back if you want." Handing him the bag of pre-shelled and deveined shrimp, she looked at him, "I've got the entire weekend off."

Taking the shrimp, he then pulled a bowl out and ran some water, "I don't know, Calleigh. My time is pretty busy during the day, I could ask Sharon if it's okay."

Placing the package with the two lobster tails onto the counter, she then reached back for the tea, "Well, only if you can. I don't want to pull you from anything important there. I know they've been helping you a lot."

"Yeah, all the rules and stipulations are there for me to stay on the straight and narrow." Preparing the lobster tails, he could feel his anger starting to creep up on him and he sighed, "It's hard to move around with all the rules."

Noticing his slight change of tone, Calleigh poured him a glass of tea and placed it over near him. Setting the pitcher down, she moved to him and placed her hand onto his back, rubbing him gently, "The end result will all be worth it though, Horatio. You'll be able to come home then and we'll be able to be together."

Turning to her he smiled faintly, "I'm just ready to get my life back. I know I can do it, Calleigh."

"I know you can, but you need to finish this, Horatio. You finishing will be a major step for you…and I'll be there the rest of the way to help support you through it." Reaching up and caressing his cheek, she smiled, "there's something I want to give you…something that I couldn't there at the house."

Leaning into her hand, he asked, "And what is it that you couldn't give to me at the house?"

"This…" she whispered as she leaned to him. Going up on her toes some, her lips went to his, giving him a soft kiss. Letting it linger for a moment, she lowered herself back down and smiled, "I love you, Horatio…and I'm proud of what you're doing."

"I love you," he answered back as he pulled her closer. Bending to take her lips, he smiled, kissing her softly. After months and months of being without her, he could feel the need surging through him and increased the intensity slightly. Pulling away from her, he shook his head, "Calleigh…I-I'm sorry."

"Horatio, it's okay," she whispered as she closed the distance between them again. Placing her arms up around his neck the best she could, she smiled, "I've missed that…and you."

He stared at her and smiled, caressing her cheek softly. "I want to be with you, Calleigh. But I want to make sure I'm right."

"I understand." Giving him a smile as her stomach growled, both began to laugh and he let her go, "I think I'll get the salad stared. Our daughter is demanding some food in there with her."

Turning back to preparing the lobster, he smiled, "She's a demanding little thing." When Calleigh crossed his path, he stopped her and placed a hand on her belly. The feeling of her kicking produced a smile and he looked up to her, "This is a good thing. I am a part of a good thing."

Nodding slightly, Calleigh whispered, "You're apart of a great thing, Horatio." Smiling more, she placed her hand onto his and moved it to where the baby was pushing more. Looking up at him, she chuckled, "She likes to stretch out around this time of day for some reason."

"Getting comfortable perhaps? Mama's on the go, so when you slow down, she gets to relax." Horatio rubbed her stomach gently and sighed, "I want to be there when she's born. I need to get out of the sober house so I can be there."

"You will, Horatio. Now you have a new focal point." Giving him a smile, Calleigh tilted her head, "But, for right now, I need to feed us both. I'm starving and the thought of food is making me hungrier."

"Alright, I'll get on it. This isn't going to take long, that's for sure." Moving quickly, he left her side and then started cooking. It surprised him at the level of efficiency that he cooked, the feeling of accomplishing something coursing through him. For a brief moment, he thought of the euphoric high that was starting to fade, but he then banished those thoughts as he neared the completion of the meal.

Finishing with his packing, Horatio glanced around the now empty room and smiled, the weight of his accomplishments now covering him. After a relapse, he'd finally completed rehab and a stint at the sober house and retaining a better sense of who he was. No longer did he doubt his love for Calleigh, nor hers for him and the questions that were lingering from his captivity, he chose to shove deeply down, intending to forget. What Adrienne had done to him was a part of him for the rest of his life, but he wasn't going to continue to relive it. There was too much at stake now. In a matter of a couple of months, his life was going to change for the better, and he had keep himself sharp in order to be apart of the change.

Hearing the door open slowly, he saw her emerge and smiled, picking up his bag, "I think I've got everything. Wanna check behind me?"

Smiling, Calleigh looked around his room some and then back to him, "Only if you feel like I should. I'm sure Sharon would send anything you've might have forgotten." Watching him and seeing the brightness back in his eyes, she was elated that the day had finally came and he could go home with her. Coming to him, she raised a brow, "You don't mind if we stay at the beach house tonight do you?"

"I don't. I think it will be a good buffer," Horatio responded as he arched his brow. He was sure that she needed rest before getting on the road. "We can rest and relax before getting back on the road."

"Okay. Well, we'll need to stop somewhere to get some food then. I think I ate just about everything the last time I was there," she snickered as her hand rested on her large belly. Running her other hand through her hair, she sighed, "It'll be good having you at home at night now too. No more curfews, or anything. We can veg out if we want."

"That's going to be nice. To be able to just be without having to worry about rule's and stipulation's." Coming to her side, he placed a hand on her belly and stroked it as he leaned to kiss her, "How are you doing?"

"I'm good for now. I'll be better though once we get you home and we can relax together." Giving him another kiss, she placed her hands onto his sides, "But right now, let's get you out of here."

"I'm all for that," Horatio said as he moved to take up another bag. Gesturing with a nod, he smirked, "I'll follow you anywhere, sweetheart. Lead the way out."

Smiling, Calleigh went to the door and pushed it open more for him. Going out to the hallway, she waited for him and then they walked together towards the front of the house. Seeing Sharon, Calleigh looked to him, "I'll give you a few minutes. I'll get the car started and the ac going."

Nodding, Horatio smiled as she moved through to the door, heading for the door and then looked back at Sharon, his smile growing. He'd learned so much from his stay here that he felt truly indebted to Sharon for never giving up on him.

Averting his eyes, he sighed and then chuckled, "Well, this is it."

"Yes it is. You've done a wonderful job, Ray. Just remember everything you've learned and you'll make it just fine." Handing him a clipboard, she smirked, "And…you get to sign yourself out now."

Taking the clipboard in hand, he couldn't help but laugh, "For the first and last time I hope." Scribbling his name, he smirked, "Don't take this personally, but I hope I never see you again."

"Same here…well, not under these circumstances anyways." Taking the clipboard back, she held out her other hand, "Good luck, Ray. And remember, if you ever need to talk, I'm only a phone call away."

Taking her hand, he shook it and then looked behind her to see his other housemates. Giving them a wave, he smirked, "You guys keep your heads up. Things are going to be just fine." Retaining his focus on Sharon, he smiled, "See ya later, Sharon."

"Goodbye, Ray," Sharon smiled as she watched him pick his bag back up and walk to the door. Giving him a wave, she hoped as with all there clients that he'd never have to return to them there.

Walking out of the door, Horatio took one lasting glance and then turned to see Calleigh waiting for him by the car. His heart thumped with anticipation as he took the steps toward the car, his smile growing. There was nothing that could take the place of what he was feeling at that moment.

Stopping in front of Calleigh, he leaned to kiss her on her cheek and then whispered in her ear, "Get me out of here, beautiful."

"Sure thing, Handsome," she replied as they went to the back of the car and she opened the trunk for him. Going to her side, she carefully slipped in behind the wheel and put her seatbelt on. Smiling as he finally got him, she reached up on the dash and handed him a pair of sunglasses, "Thought you might need these."

Taking them in hand, Horatio slipped them on and smiled, "It's been a long time since I've had these. How do they look?"

Smiling more at him, Calleigh nodded, "Awesome as always." Putting the car in reverse, Calleigh backed out and then shifted into drive. Heading out, she let out a long refreshing sigh and looked over at him, "I cannot wait to get to the house."

"Me neither. It's going to be nice just to…be," Horatio answered as he looked to her. The smile that he had lived for at months at a time was back and beaming, warming him completely. Reaching for her resting hand, he squeezed it, "Just to be with you…alone without any stipulations, that's going to be worth every single moment I've suffered through."

Turning her hand over, Calleigh looked to him and then back to the road, giving his hand a squeeze, "You won't be alone anymore, Horatio. This is our new start, as of today…we can start anew."

"Now that is something that I'm looking forward to." After a moment, they lapsed into silence and Horatio turned his attention to the passing landscape, losing himself to the plethora of memories that surfaced. From Calleigh's ordeal to his hospitalization and even up to now, Horatio's life had been spun upside down. Now, he hoped that he could start to piece it back together again and be happy.

Bringing himself back, he broke the silence, asking, "How about we get some take out and just…veg. I don't feel like a big meal right now. I just want to spend time with you."

Thinking for a moment, she glanced over at him, "How about this then, we go on to the house and just order a pizza then and have it delivered? Then we won't have to stop at all."

"I like the way you think," Horatio grinned as he relaxed more. It wasn't long before they were driving up to the house, the sight of its warmth infusing him with happiness. He never thought he'd see this moment, but he was glad that it had finally arrived.

Pulling up and shutting the car off, Calleigh looked over at him and smiled, "Welcome home, Handsome."

"It's good to finally be home," he whispered back, reaching to caress her cheek. Steadying his gaze, he nodded toward the house, "I'm okay with leaving my bags here for the time being. Let's get inside."

"'Kay." Getting out, Calleigh made sure to grab her purse and locked the car. Coming around to him, she took his offered hand and walked up the steps to the beach house. As the wind off the water whipped her hair some, she held up his keys to him, "Care to do the honor?"

"I would like nothing more," he answered, taking the keys. Taking a small breath, he nodded, slipping the key in. Turning, he pushed the door open and smiled, "Nice."

Moving to his side, Calleigh looked up at him and whispered, "Time to relax and veg out, Handsome."

Horatio smiled and brought her close, "You want to go and get comfortable? I could go ahead and call the pizza in."

"Sounds good. I uh, I brought you some more clothes also. There in the bedroom already, and I have something special for you when we get back to Miami," she replied as she looked up at him. Seeing his smile, Calleigh reached up, touching his chin and whispered, "I love you."

"I love you," he answered back. Arching a brow, he asked, "And what's this something special?"

Raising a brow, Calleigh smirk and moved to go in, "You'll just have to wait and see, Handsome." Looking back to see him following, Calleigh slipped off her sandals next to the door and rubbed her belly. Padding her way through the home and to the back patio doors, she opened them, letting the sea breeze move through the house.

Coming up behind her, Horatio smiled and asked again, "Come on, Cal. Let me in on it. What's the surprise?"

Turning to him, Calleigh closed the distance, placing her arms up around his neck and letting her hands hang behind him, "It's something that I think you'll use…and that I think you'll appreciate. And…you'll be able to awe me with."

"Awe you with?" he asked, staring into her eyes. He smiled crookedly and added, "I thought I did that already. Why not give me just a hint?"

"You do…" she replied with a slight laugh and tilted her head, "but, if I give you a hint it'll give it away. Let's just say it's something I want you to keep doing."

Thinking more, Horatio, smirked, "I've got an idea." Leaning to nuzzle her he whispered, "And tell me if I'm wrong." Nipping at her neck, he breathed heavily, "You brought me a painting easel and paints, haven't you?"

Smiling brightly, she closed her eyes and whispered, "Maybe…you'll have to see tomorrow, Handsome." Her fingers moved to the nape of his neck, playing in the short hair there and breathed out, "I'm so happy you're home finally."

Relishing in her touch, he responded breathlessly, "I'm happy to be home."

Slowly opening her eyes, Calleigh pulled back some and looked up at him, "I'm proud of you, Horatio. You've come so far these past few months. I'll always be here for you, no matter what is thrown our way."

Moving her hair out of her eyes, Horatio bent slowly to caress her lips with his and held on to her tightly before releasing her. A smile bore across his lips that tingled fresh from his light assault and he could feel his heart thumping in his chest. The more he held her in his arms the more he wanted her warmth.

"I'll be strong for us, Calleigh. Everyday, I'll work hard to be strong and be what you need, be what you both need." His hand drifted between them and settled on her belly, rubbing it lovingly. "I love you."

"I love you too, Horatio…" she whispered, staring up into his blue eyes. For so long, she had waited for this, and now he was back with her. Reaching up, she tiled her head and touched his chin with her fingers, whispering, "Why don't we both get more comfortable."

That sounds like a great idea." Taking her lips in a small kiss, he parted and grinned, "After I make the call for the pizza. You're probably hungry, we shouldn't let you go too long without eating."

"Yeah. Baby girl here…" she said rubbing her belly, "doesn't like missing a mealtime." While Horatio went for the phone and phone book, Calleigh began opening the windows, letting the fresh air in. When she'd finished, she went to the kitchen and got out a bottle of juice, opening it, she took a long drink and then went back out to the living room. Taking a seat on the couch with him, she cuddled up next to him as he placed there order.

Wrapping his arm around Calleigh, Horatio exhaled lightly and smiled as he started placing the order. He felt her take his hand in hers and then nudged her, "Hey, you didn't tell me exactly what you wanted."

"The works is fine," Calleigh replied as she looked up at him and smiled. "We're not too picky tonight."

"The works," Horatio repeated as he arched his brow. Smirking, Horatio completed the order and then hung up the phone then turning to face her completely. Laughing more, he shook his head, "I've wondered something."

"And what would that be, Handsome?" she asked and then took a drink of her juice.

"Now, don't take this the wrong way, but…where does it go? You're not that big, and the way you eat puts Speed to shame. I'm just curious."

Chuckling, Calleigh placed the cap back onto the juice and turned more towards him, "I've always had a high metabolism…well, that and exercising, which you know I love to do. So, it's easy too keep weight off me."

Horatio leaned in to tickle her and chuckled, "Yes, and I know the other ways that keeps the weight off." Nipping at her neck, he sighed, "it's been too long, Calleigh."

Smiling some, Calleigh cut her eyes to him and spoke softly, "I know…but, food is on the way right now, Horatio. Running her fingers through his hair, she whispered, "How about after we eat, we retire to the bedroom for the rest of the day?"

"Now, that's the best idea yet." Allowing his hands to roam, he smirked, "Now the problem will be if I can keep my hands off of you long enough to eat."

Remembering how she'd found him at Adrienne's hideout, Calleigh refrained the comment she wanted to make and smiled more, "Well, you might not need to eat, but I do. Your daughter gets fussy and kicks hard when she's teased with food."

"Demanding," he answered back lightly as he pulled away slowly. Resting back on the couch, he closed his eyes and took in a deep breath and released it gently, "It's nice to just be. For the first time in my life, I feel like I can relax."

Turning her back to him, she then laid back against him some as his arm came around her, "You deserve to relax now, Horatio. And…if…if you don't want to go back to the lab, I'll understand, so will everyone else. You're basically still on medical, ride it out and then retire."

Horatio nodded and bit his lip, averting his eyes away. He was conflicted about what to do with his future, but he was resigned to take it one step at a time. Interlacing his hand with hers, he sighed, "I haven't made a decision quite yet. I know that I said I wouldn't go back, but…what would I do, Calleigh? I have to keep busy. If I don't…"

Turning to him, she smiled, "You could be a full time dad if you wanted to. That and paint, which you're great at. Personally, I think you could sell some of your paintings, Horatio."

Taking that into consideration, he smiled, "A full time Dad. Now that's a job I'd never thought I'd have."

"Well, whatever you decide, you know I'll back you up on it. Just as long as you're happy, that's what matters the most," Calleigh replied as she looked up and back at him. Giving him a warm smile, she sighed, "Maybe later down the road we could think about a little brother or sister for this one."

A look of surprise came over him as he smiled, "You would…you would want another child? With me?"

Nodding, Calleigh smiled more and chuckled, "Yes…why wouldn't I? I love you, Horatio…I want to be with you forever."

"Well then, it's settled. Somewhere down the road, Cerise gets a sister or a brother." He pulled her close and caressed her arm as he stared at the billowing sheers, the thought of having more kids causing him to smile. The idea of being a stay at home Dad began to grow on him and he laughed, the image of him surrounded by his children warming his heart, "I definitely love that idea."

"I thought you might." Remembering something, Calleigh sat up quickly and then got up, "Dammit, I forgot to give you the letter…" she replied as she went for her purse. Grabbing it, she came back to him and handed him the envelope before sitting back down with him, "Tim said it came to you at the lab. When he saw it was from Kyle, he thought you'd want it."

Taking the envelope in hand, Horatio looked to Calleigh and then back at the envelope, wondering what it said. Kyle had left before anything had happened to Horatio, but he wasn't sure if anyone had told him. Running his hand over the envelope, he sighed, "I wonder what it says."

Watching him, Calleigh placed her hand onto his forearm, "He doesn't know what happened, Horatio. Only Tim and myself know everything."

Horatio gave her a short nod and focused on the basic white envelope with his name scribbled on top of it. Taking a closer look, he could see the tiny grains of sand and smudged ink. Instantly, his thoughts went to where his son could be and he slid his finger under the flap, pulling it cleanly a part. Sitting up more, he slipped the paper out and unfolded it, the sight of his ragged penmanship causing him to chuckle. As he started to read, his smile faded and he focused on the words.

Dad,

After a few weeks, I finally get a chance to sit and write to you. I've tried to call you, but I haven't been able to get an answer. I hope things are alright with you. Things are…interesting here. It's a bit much to get used to, but the guys in my company are great. They rib me for being so young, but I don't let it bother me. We're here to do a job, right?

Since I haven't been able to get up with you, I'll give you my instant message address as well as my email. I hope to hear from you soon.

Love,

Kyle

Horatio exhaled and then folded the letter back and placed it in the envelope and smiled, "He's…he's doing good. He gave me his IM and email address. I'll have to reply soon."

"When we get home tomorrow use the lap top. I've got it all set up in the living room now being the guest room is now the nursery. I've even got a webcam for it as well so you use it to."

"Thanks, Calleigh." Glancing to the clock, he looked back at her, "The pizza will be here soon, why don't you go ahead and get relaxed?"

"Okay. I'm going to go change then," she replied as she leaned to him, giving him a kiss. Smiling as she pulled back, she looked into his eyes, "Love you."

"Love you," he answered back, smiling down at her. He laughed and then gave her a swift smack on her behind, "I don't want you to have to rush. Go and get changed."

Laughing some, Calleigh headed towards the hallway, "I won't be long." Heading to the room, she went in and straight to the closet. Opening the door, she looked through her clothes she'd brought and found a sundress to wear. Taking it off the hanger, she went to the bed, placing it down and began to take off her shirt and then shorts. Pursing her lips, she smirked and also took off her bra and panties. Taking the sundress in hand, she slipped it on over her head and pull it down over her belly. Gathering her clothes up, she placed them into the bag she had out for their dirty clothes and then left out the room.

Watching as she came in, Horatio sat up and then smiled, "That is… that's a very nice dress. Very nice indeed. "Getting up, he went to her licking his lips as he tilted his head, "it's very pretty."

"Thank you." Moving to him, she placed her arms up onto his shoulders, "Since I got so big I started wearing sundresses, they're a lot more comfortable then shorts or pants. I can move more."

"It's a nice look. I like it a lot. Will you wear them after giving birth?"

Thinking about it, Calleigh shrugged some, "Maybe around the house. And they'll make it easier when I'm breast feeding. But at work, uh…no. I cannot see myself collecting evidence in one of these."

"No, I don't think that you gathering evidence in a sun dress is very productive." Horatio arched a brow and smiled, "But it's doing its job at the moment."

Smiling up at him, Calleigh tilted her head, "Is that so? Then maybe I should wear them at home more often then." Giving him a kiss, she then smirked, "Although, I don't think you'll get a lot of painting or anything done with me around in them."

"You're right," he answered as he reached for the dress. Holding it between his fingers, Horatio smirked, "I wouldn't get a lot of anything done. But that wouldn't be something I'd complain about."

"I know you wouldn't." Hearing a knock at the door, Calleigh raised a brow, "I think our food is here. How much was it and I'll get the money?"

"Fifteen ninety," Horatio said as he watched Calleigh leave his arms. Shaking his head, he walked to the door and opened it, nodding towards the delivery guy, "She's coming with the money."

Grabbing a twenty from her wallet, Calleigh went back to the door and smiled as she handed over the money to the delivery girl. Thanking her as Horatio took the pizza, the smell wafted by her and she closed the door, "God that smells so good."

Following him back to the living room, she then turned and headed for the kitchen and called out, "You want a beer with that, Handsome?"

Uneasy about the alcohol, he decided to forgo it and shook his head, "No thanks. I'll take whatever else we got."

"Tea or soda then…" she replied as she went in and to the refrigerator. Smiling as he asked for tea, she got out the pitcher and then got them each a glass. Pouring them both some, she placed the pitcher back and got some napkins and two paper plates and then went back out to him, "Okay, got what we need, let's eat."

Horatio sat down beside her and helped with sorting things. Once everything was in it's place, he smiled, "Our first meal together, well…not first, but you get the idea." Holding up his glass, he smiled, "To never eating alone again."

Holding her glass up, they clinked them together and Calleigh spoke softly, "I agree…" Leaning to him, she gave him a kiss and whispered, "And to our new start together."

"Yes, our new start together," he answered back just as softly. Staring at her as she got a slice of pizza, Horatio smiled, "Eat as much as you want, sweetheart."

"You know, that can be very dangerous now," she chuckled as she got a slice and sat back with her plate. Picking off a mushroom and popping it into her mouth, she smirked, "Last time they got pizza at the lab they got me my own. Ryan thought he was being cute by saying it was so they would have some. Needless to say, the look I gave him made him leave the room."

"Never come between a pregnant woman and her food, am I right?" Horatio watched as she ate and sipped on his glass of tea slowly. He was enjoying this immensely, conversing as she ate, watching as her eyes lit with each sentence. Her laugh had instantly grabbed his attention and he couldn't help but reach out to touch her, admonishing, "I'm very lucky to have you, Calleigh. No one would've stood behind me like you did."

Wiping her mouth with her napkin, Calleigh turned to him more, "A long time ago I told someone I wouldn't let you walk a road alone. I know I wasn't there for you when you needed me the most, and that's something I wish wouldn't have happened, but, it'll never happen again. I love you too much to let you go."

"I love you," he responded as he nodded. Gesturing to the pizza in the box, he continued, anxious to spend more time with her, "Eat up, Cal."

Wagging her brow, she picked up her slice of pizza, "I plan to…but you need to eat also. You might need that energy later on." Giving him a wink, she then took a bite of her food, happy he was finally back with her. The road had been long for them both, but, with the new start they had been given, she was now anxious to move on with their lives…together.