Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Rizzoli & Isles. The characters belong to Tess Gerritsen, Jan Nash, Janet Tamaro, and TNT. I am in no way profiting from this. It's just for fun.
I can't believe we're already at the final chapter. It's crazy how fast time flies. I'm blown away by all of the follows, favorites and reviews. You guys are amazing. I hope you enjoy the last update.
This is by far the longest chapter out of any of my fics, but I'm sure you guys won't mind... ;)
Time Between Us Ch. 14
2035, Former SkyNet hideout taken over by the Boston Resistance
Everyone watched as the violent shakings of the time machine slowed to just mere rumblings, the bright light fading slowly. When it was gone, all eyes were on the platform, Jane nowhere in sight.
Seconds ticked by until a solider broke the silence of the eerily quiet room. "Did it work?"
"I think so..." Another soldier spoke up. "Wouldn't things have changed if Rizzoli failed?"
"Maybe the change wouldn't happen that fast?" The first man theorized. "I don't know man, this whole time travel thing seems real tricky to me."
"Nothing will change, I can assure you." Doctor Maura Isles' voice interrupted the two men, and suddenly everyone was staring at her expectantly. Wanting her to explain. "Lieutenant Rizzoli was successful in her mission to protect me and destroy the terminator. I wasn't able to tell anyone about the past until just now, or else it would change things drastically."
Frost, Jane's best friend who had been standing in front of the troops to watch her embark on the dangerous mission, nervously approached Maura.
"She's dead, isn't she? That's why she's not here telling us all this."
"About a week after their arrival, Jane and I had a final confrontation with the terminator. She suffered significant damage due to several injuries, and bled out but-"
"And you're smiling about that?!" The young corporal interrupted, angry and upset over the loss of friend. Why the hell would Doctor Isles be happy about this? He took a deep breath to calm down, not wanting to argue with the woman who undoubtedly saved the world. "What else happened?"
The honey blonde turned her head, shouting over her shoulder. "Guard."
Behind her, a tall figure emerged from the dark corner, dressed in all black riot-like gear. The person's face was covered by a mask, goggles, and helmet to conceal their identity.
When word spread of Maura being close to finding a way to stop SkyNet and the terminators, she became a prime target of theirs. So Commander Cavanaugh ordered a soldier to be Maura's private guard, their identity being kept secret in order to protect their family.
Over the years, many men and women had fallen in battle. Some got lost during scouting missions, suffered from disease and unable to get a cure, and a few were even taken prisoner by SkyNet. It was hard for everyone to keep track of all the losses, especially in the early years of the war when things were more chaotic and unorganized, so no one knew who this mysterious soldier could be.
Almost all of the people on the base had seen the guard at one point or another, always by Maura's side ready to protect her with their life if necessary. They never messed with the guard, knowing that if Cavanaugh entrusted this person with such an important task that they must be one of the best and most trained soldiers in all of the Resistance. No one had tried to remove their face mask, not wanting to defy orders and risk messing up a very important mission. So they let it be... But now that it's all over? Everyone was finally going to see who it was that stood by the doctor's side 24/7.
"I think I'll let her explain." Maura cryptically replied as her personal guard for the last several years stood next to her.
The guard removed her helmet and goggles, revealing dark brown eyes that looked very familiar to Corporal Frost. After another moment, the mysterious soldier pulled down the black cotton mask that hid her nose and mouth.
The entire room, except for Maura, Cavanaugh, and Korsak, let out loud gasps of shock at the sight of Lieutenant Jane Rizzoli standing before them.
"Hey, Frostie." Jane greeted him, dropping her gear to the floor beside them.
"Jane?" He asked with wide eyes, utterly stunned to see her. "Is that really you?"
The brunette threw her arms around him, hugging Frost tightly. "Yeah bud, it's me. It's damn good to see you again."
"H-how?" Frost stuttered out, still in shock but managed to hug her back.
Jane pulled back from the embrace and grinned at his priceless expression. "Thanks to Cavanaugh and Korsak, I was able to stay hidden from all of you for nearly 20 years. I couldn't stay away, and Maura definitely couldn't. So we came here together when the Resistance first formed, and talked with Cav. We explained the situation, and after telling him a few things that only he and I would know, he believed us."
All eyes darted over to the Commander as soon as Jane said those words. He held up his hands to quiet the murmuring, ready to explain himself.
"I know what a lot of you are probably thinking... If I knew this was going to happen, why didn't I act on it earlier to prevent many tragic events? Believe me, I wanted to many times. I just couldn't... Not only did the virus take years to create, but as Doctor Isles had said, things would've changed drastically if I said anything. None of us would be here right now if it weren't for her and Lieutenant Rizzoli, so try to keep that in mind."
"So that's been you under there, all this time?" Frost asked Jane in disbelief, poking at her protective and bulletproof gear.
"Yep. I've walked past you so many times, and it really hurt not being able to talk to you. It was better than not seeing you at all, though."
"I understand..." He sighed, smiling sadly at her. Frost wasn't about to get mad, though. He had it easy, only going a minute without her, whereas Jane had to wait 20 years. "But the important thing is that you're here and the mission is over."
"Finally! Now I can do this..." Jane groaned, but before Frost could ask what she meant, the lieutenant pulled Maura close to her body by the waist and leant in to kiss her passionately.
Loud whistles, clapping, and cheering filled the crowded room. Everyone was happy for the couple and that things were finally going to be ok.
Jane pulled back, still within kissing distance, and whispered to Maura as she tucked a hair behind her ear. "No more hiding, for either of us. I get to kiss you in public now."
Maura kept her arms around the back of Jane's neck, nudging their noses together as they both grinned in happiness and relief. "It's about time."
Just as they were ready to kiss again, Cavanaugh came over to them. "Sorry to interrupt, but I need to say something to you both."
Jane removed her arms from around Maura's waist and stood at attention, saluting her Commander.
"At ease, soldier." Sean replied, saluting her in return. "On behalf of the Boston Resistance and the entire human race, I would like to thank you for your exemplary service. You did a damn good job of completing your mission."
"It was an honor, sir." She responded, smiling at Maura. "Best choice I ever made."
"And to you, Doctor Isles." The Commander turned his attention to Maura, who stood silent as he spoke to her. "Thank you for creating the virus that helped us win this war against the machines. If it weren't for you, we wouldn't be able to rebuild civilization to what it once was. Maybe now, with your help as well as the others, we can make the world a better place."
"Thank you, sir. I appreciate that." She shook his hand, both of them beaming with pride. "I will gladly stand by you and everyone else in helping rebuild the world together."
"Every living soul on this planet, and those who haven't even been born yet, will forever owe you both a debt of gratitude."
"We couldn't have done it without each other." Jane said, linking hands with Maura. "We'll give everyone a debrief of what happened over the last 20 years, but right now I would really like to see my brothers."
"Of course, go right ahead."
Sean made a motion with his hands, urging his soldier to go see her family. "The troops are starting to get restless, so we're gonna head back to our base to finally celebrate our victory. Join us when you're ready."
"Thanks, sir. We sure will... It's been a long time coming. Save me some of that whiskey, will ya?"
"You got it, Rizzoli. Now get out of here and go see those boys. It's only been a couple hours since they've seen you, but they missed you like hell."
Jane nodded, giddy and excited to finally see her younger brothers. With Maura by her side, she asked "You ready?"
"I've been ready for 2 whole decades."
They both laughed together, and made their way through the throng of soldiers that clapped and cheered victoriously. The war was finally over, for good this time.
2015, Massachusetts General Hospital
Jane slowly opened her eyes, feeling very disoriented as she woke. She felt a slight pain in her arm and looked down to see an IV sticking out of her, a steady stream of fluids being pushed into her system.
"Hey, sleepyhead." A familiar voice softly whispered to her. Jane turned her head in that direction, but still rested it against the pillow, feeling weak and heavily medicated.
"Maura?" Through her slightly blurry vision, Jane was able to make out that her lover was sitting at her bedside, wearing a light blue hospital gown that loosely clung to her body. "Are you ok? What happened? Where are we?"
"Shh... It's ok, we're fine." Maura held her hand, rubbing her thumb across the back of it soothingly. "We're in a hospital."
"Why are you wearing that? Did you get hurt?"
"No..." Maura blushed, seemingly embarrassed by the reason she was admitted. "I had an allergic reaction and they had to run some tests, but I'm ok. I was more concerned about you."
"An allergic reaction to what?" She asked with a small smirk, having a feeling that whatever it was must've been funny.
"Well, shortly after you..." The former college student couldn't bring herself to say that Jane had died in her arms, so she decided to skip that part for now. "The police and fire department arrived on the scene, having been alerted of the fire and explosion at the factory. They actually weren't too far away, many of them were taking care of accident victims on the highway from Dennis' reckless driving. An ambulance was with them, and they managed to get you to the hospital in time to bring you back."
"So, I'm ok?"
"You were under for 15 minutes before they got your heart beating again, but they managed to stabilize you despite the damage. You've been in the ICU for about 3 days now, but are expected to make a full recovery."
"That's great, but..." Jane trailed off for a second. "How does that explain why you were admitted into the hospital?"
"The police questioned me here, and I had to tell them who I was. I had to lie about everything that had happened, and as a result I got the worst case of hives in my life."
"You had an allergic reaction to lying?" Jane laughed quietly, still tired but was starting to feel better knowing things had been taken care of in her absence.
"I can't help it!" She replied defensively, but couldn't help chuckling.
"Ok, ok... So what did you tell them?"
"That Dennis tried to kill me, and a homeless woman saved my life. He kept chasing us everywhere we went, and we were scared to go to the police. I gave them a description of him, and it corroborated with who they believed assaulted Riley. I told them that we tried going to my house, but Dennis had followed. That he killed my parents and the officer whose police cruiser he stole."
"And they bought it?"
"Yes, it appears so. They've already gone on a 'manhunt' for Dennis, but since he's been destroyed, they won't ever find him. I told them we had run for our lives in the factory in an attempt to lose him, and he had set a fire to trap us. He stabbed you, but we managed to get away before the building collapsed. We don't know where he went after that..."
"Wow..." Was all the healing woman could say at first as she soaked in the information. "So they think I'm just some homeless woman that helped you out?"
"I figured saying you were homeless was the best thing, so if they didn't find a record of you somewhere that it wouldn't be suspicious."
"Well they certainly don't call you a genius for nothing."
"I couldn't have done it without you. You saved my life, risking your own in the process. You really scared me."
"I did it because I love you."
Maura couldn't resist leaning forward to kiss Jane in the lips softly. "I love you, too. Don't you ever die on me again."
"I promise I'll try my best." Jane swore with another laugh, reaching up to cup Maura's face. "So we're really ok?"
"Yes we are." Maura promised, and pressed a button above Jane's bed. "Let's get a doctor to check on you. I hope that bed is comfortable, you're going to be in it for at least a week."
"Crap... How bad did I get hurt?"
"Badly."
"I hate it when you correct me."
"Well I hate it when you forget about Mr. Adverb." Maura retorted back, both women smiling and rolling their eyes. "Anyway... The stab wound was the worst of the injuries, but you also sustained a fractured shoulder and a pretty nasty concussion to your head. There were lacerations that required a few stitches, on your arm and head, and there luckily wasn't any damage to your brain."
"Well that's good... So I guess we're in the clear for now, huh? Just one of the many hurdles we're going to have jump."
"Yes... But like you said, we'll win the war and all the lives lost will be avenged."
Jane agreed with a short and sad smile, just as a doctor knocked on the door and walked inside the room.
"Miss Jane..." He greeted with a friendly smile, calling her by her first name since they didn't obtain any more information than that. "I must say it's great to finally see you awake. You put us through quite the scare."
"That's what people keep telling me..." Jane laughed, and went to shake the man's hand he had extended out to her.
"I'm Doctor Canfields, I was your surgeon and have been monitoring your progress. For a homeless woman, I have to say you've kept yourself in remarkable shape. I believe that's what aided in saving your life. Had you not been in such healthy conditions, you wouldn't have made it. But..." He added with an assuring voice. "You pulled through every obstacle in your way. The police have been wanting to talk to you about your heroic efforts in keeping Miss Isles safe from that monstrous human being, but I won't let them in until you're ready to talk."
"That's ok, Doc. Better get this over with now so we can move past it."
"Excellent, I'll have them come later today. I just need to check your wounds and record vitals down, and if you seem to be improving, I'll have you moved out of the ICU. Sound like a good plan?"
"Just one thing..." Jane trailed off, and both doctors, present and future ones, looked at her expectantly. "Can I please get some food? I'm starving!"
"I'm sure I can arrange for a nurse to bring you something." Canfields laughed loudly as he lifted Jane's gown up to check the healing progress of her stab wound. The hunting knife went in rather deep, but it fortunately missed all vital organs. Still, the overwhelming amount blood loss was what led to her nearly dying. He then checked her stitching, both on her shoulder and the side of her head. His satisfied hums at each wound seemed to be a good sign that things were healing as they should be. "Well Miss Jane, everything checks out ok. We'll be keeping you here for a while to make sure no possible brain bleeds occur as a result of your head injury, but I think it's alright to say nothing will happen."
"Better safe than sorry, fine by me. I'm just glad we're alive."
"We're all glad... This past week must've been a nightmare for you both."
"It was." Both Jane and Maura said at the same time, and looked at one another when they did.
"Oh, and before I forget..." The middle aged man began to say as he almost left the room. "Maura, your friend Riley Cooper woke from her coma an hour ago and was asking about you. She's in room 609 if you'd like to visit her."
Maura was temporarily in shock from hearing about Riley, her close friend and former roommate slipping her mind in the midst of all the chaos of the last week despite her name being brought up with the cops as she was being questioned. All of her focus was on Jane.
"I will be with her as soon as I can, thank you." She replied gratefully, happy to know another person she cared about survived Dennis' attacks. Maura wished the same could be said of her parents, but it was sadly too late for them. After Doctor Canfields left, Maura saw Jane looking at her with a smirk. "What?"
"Go on..." Jane gestured towards the door with a nod of her head. "Go see your friend. I'll be right here when you get back."
"Thank you." Maura kissed her lips again, and asked "You'll be alright without me for a few minutes?"
"I'll be fine. Now that we can finally breathe without Dennis lurking about, we don't need to worry about things as much. For now, at least. We have plenty of time to have a little fun before we need to get to the shelter."
"I'm still holding you to that promise of having sex in every room, you know."
"Good."
Maura made sure to kiss her one last time before leaving, not only to visit Riley, but wanting Jane to get some rest as well. The Resistance fighter was so tired from the morphine pumping in her veins, that the second the door closed with Maura on the other side, she fell right back to sleep.
2035, Underground Boston Resistance Base
"Hey, Doctor Isles." Young Frankie Rizzoli greeted Maura with a polite tone and friendly handshake, surprising her with his manners at such a young age. She thought to herself that Jane did a great job of raising them, even thought she was often busy going on missions. "What are you doing here?"
"Well, I came by to see how you and your brother are doing." She explained as Jane stood just outside the door listening. Maura carefully stepped around the comic and coloring books that littered the floor, as well as a few toys. Jane was right, they did have a lot considering what happened.
"About Janie, you mean? Is she ok?" Tommy worriedly asked, instantly forgetting about the army men he was playing with. He jumped up and ran over to Maura, fear evident in his brown eyes that looked strikingly similar to Jane's.
"Why don't you ask her yourself?" She grinned, stepping aside so Jane could enter their room.
"Jane!" Frankie and Tommy yelled, and bolted over to their sister to bring her into a monster hug. They cried in her arms as she scooped them up, tears streaming down her face as well.
"I missed you both, so much..." Jane said with a hoarse voice, feeling it getting thicker the more she cried.
"We thought you'd be gone forever." Tommy said, squeezing Jane's back as she lowered them back down onto the floor. She got on her knees to be eye level with them while she explained everything.
"It felt like forever, believe me. I've been away from you guys for so long... 20 whole years."
"Is that why you look a little different?" Frankie questioned, not meaning to offend Jane.
She of course understood this, and wasn't mad. Her brunette hair had a few strands of grey, and her body seemed to have gained a little muscle mass. The soldier had a lot of down time and used some of it to work out, also wanting to just stay in shape. Jane hadn't aged much, but for the most part still looked the same.
"I've gotten a little older but I'm still the same Jane, no worries." She replied, tousling her brother's already messy hair.
"So are you back for good?"
"Yeah, Tommy... I'm back for good. No more missions for me..." Jane happily informed, then stood up and brought them over to where Maura had been watching. The blonde discreetly wiped away a few tears, getting emotional from their touching reunion. "Tommy, Frankie... I'd like for you both to officially meet Doctor Maura Isles, my wife."
"Whoa..." Frankie said, his mind blown by the information. "You guys are married?"
"That's right." Maura proudly confirmed, and showed the two young boys her wedding band that matched the one of Jane's finger.
"How come we never knew that?" Tommy wondered, his curiosity getting the best of him.
"I'll explain everything over dinner, how's that sound?" Jane promised them, and they both eagerly nodded their heads.
The four of them walked back to Maura's quarters, where she and Jane had spent a lot of their time together over the years. When Maura wasn't working on the virus or saving the lives of injured soldiers, she was always in there. It now made sense to everyone why she seemed so closed off and distant, Maura was with Jane in her free time.
"It's so cool in here! Janie, this is where you've been living all this time?" Tommy asked as he excitedly jumped onto their couch. Jane was about to scold him, but her wife quietly told her to let it slide. After all that they've been put through, breaking a few minor etiquette rules would be ok.
"Yeah. Whenever I wasn't out with Maura, we stayed here." Jane answered, plopping down next to her brother. "If it weren't for her, I would've gotten so sick of staring at these walls all the time."
"Now you can go anywhere you want... And so can we. Frostie said that Martinez guy and his people took care of the last terminators. We can go above ground for longer than a few hours now!"
"We sure can." Jane replied, already thinking of the many things they're finally able to do without having to fear for their lives. "How about tomorrow morning, we go play football outside again?"
"Yeah!" The little boys cheered enthusiastically, thrilled to play one of their most favorite games again. It didn't happen often, since it was rather dangerous to go in the open with terminators lurking around and hunting down any that dared crossed their paths.
While the twin brothers wrestled and ran around the rooms playing, Jane and Maura prepared dinner together. It wasn't anything special, but the occasion certainly was.
The married women often bumped hips with one another in the tiny kitchen, throwing each other glances as they silently but happily got the food ready. When it was finally done, the small family sat down at the table and dug in, Jane and Maura bringing the twins up to speed with their lives. No more secrets, it could be all out in the open now.
It was only a few hours later, did the rambunctious boys crash after wearing themselves out. They fell asleep curled up in Jane and Maura's laps, the sight too adorable for words.
"So what was it like to see my younger self?" Jane asked in a hushed tone so she didn't wake the sleeping children.
"Nerve wracking..." Maura answered. "I kept twisting my wedding ring the entire time and thought I'd slip and tell you something I shouldn't have. I could've sworn you noticed."
"You did great, Maur... I did notice you were a little nervous and jumpy, but back then I figured it was because you were worried about my safety or something. I don't know what I would've done or said. That's why I fell back and stuck to the shadows, I didn't wanna draw attention to myself until the younger me left. As hard as the wait was for me over the years, those last few minutes were the worst. It felt like 20 years all over again."
"Well now it's over. We can finally live openly and not have to worry about messing up the timeline. I'm still so relieved that Commander Cavanaugh believed us..."
"Yeah, me too... He wasn't so sure about a young kid like me turning about to be a great soldier, but I gave him a list of every mission I went on. I succeeded in each one and I impressed the hell out of him. Maybe that's why him and Korsak trained me and took me under their wing, I told them to."
"It's funny how things turned out, isn't it? Things happened exactly how they were supposed to, yet so many other surprises happened along the way."
"I know what you mean... Who woulda thought I was here, my younger self living on the same base this whole time? Crazy to think that two of me was here."
"It's certainly difficult to wrap your mind around it all..." Maura agreed. She began shifting her legs out to stretch, getting uncomfortable from Frankie's small body.
"Let's get them in bed." Jane said, and scooped up Tommy in her arms while Maura did the same with Frankie. The pair brought them into their room and carefully placed them onto the large bed. As the covers were being tucked over them, Jane whispered "I'll have a soldier come in here to watch them. Wanna join the party? I bet everyone is having a lot of fun right now."
"I'd love to. Lead the way."
Jane held out her arm for Maura to hold, and the two began walking out of their private quarters together. Along the way, Jane instructed a lower level soldier she knew to babysit her brothers for her. The young but capable man was very eager to do something for one of the base's legends and heroes, even though it was just watching a couple of kids.
When Jane and Maura got to the mess hall, the celebration was in full force. Music was blasting the speakers, food and drinks were lined up on the tables. They were usually very strict with the supplies, but tonight people decided to let loose and have fun. It was long overdue.
"It's been years since I've seen so many people happy and having fun like this." Jane recalled, looking at the crowd of people dancing and talking with one another. "I think the last time we truly had any fun, was in New York. You remember that day?"
"How could I forget?" Maura replied, smirking as she replayed the memory of that last day out in her mind. "That was the day you proposed."
February 2016, New York City
It was a week before the devastating attacks were to start. Jane and Maura were enjoying their last day out before heading to shelter as much as possible. Their final spot was seeing the Statue of Liberty.
About 2 months after Jane was released from the hospital, Maura liquidized her parent's assets so the two of them would have more money for supplies. She also gathered a lot of medical books, so the future doctor would be ready for her time in the surgical field helping soldiers. Maura also bought many computer and technology related books, wanting to make sure she was as knowledgable as possible in that field as well. When she wasn't busy reading, her and Jane were out having fun. They knew their time was limited, so they soaked up as much as they could.
"She's still standing at the end of the war." Jane commented absentmindedly as they stared at Lady Liberty. "She's actually been a great symbol of hope for many of us. Which is why it seems perfect we're seeing her today. I... Have a question for you."
"What is it?" Maura asked softly, sensing the nervousness in Jane's voice.
The time traveling woman briefly fumbled for something in her pocket, and began to get down on one knee. Maura inhaled sharply, completely shocked.
"I know we've only known each other for almost a year, but it feels like a lifetime. I love you more than anything in the world." Jane extended her palm out, revealing a small box that held a diamond ring inside. "Maura Isles, will you marry me?"
Several tourists watched the proposal with bright and happy smiles, excited to know what Maura's response would be. But she couldn't see or hear any of them. It was just her and Jane in that moment.
"Yes." Maura finally answered, tears uncontrollably leaving her eyes. "Yes!"
Jane slid the ring on Maura's finger, grateful that it fit perfectly, before jumping up and kissing her with all the passion and energy she had. When the need for air became too great, the kiss broke and the two grinned at one another.
"This ring is so beautiful, Jane... How did you get it without me knowing?" The blonde asked when the tourists' clapping died down and the crowd had dissipated.
Jane simply smiled at her sheepishly. "Remember a few months ago when I went out late one night? I said I was going to get more fluff."
Maura thought back to that night, remembering how Jane was so eager to get her favorite food. "Of course. I teased you the whole night after you got back. You go through those jars so quickly... Wait. That's what you were doing? Getting me a ring?"
"Yup. We were at the mall one day and while you were off getting a pair of shoes, I happened to walk past a jewelry store. So I went inside and looked at the rings, and found the perfect one. It needed to be resized, so I had to go back and pick it up. I knew from the moment I loved you, that I wanted to marry you."
"Oh Jane, that's so sweet!" Maura nearly cried, and couldn't resist kissing her again. "Who knew that a badass soldier like you would be such a romantic?"
"You brought that out of me. Before, I was never interested in seeing someone let alone getting married. Now? That's all I can think about with you."
"I'm glad." Maura leant in to Jane's embrace, hugging her as she nuzzled into her neck. "I was a little sad today, knowing we'd have to get to the shelter soon, but this definitely made me happier."
"Good... We have the whole day to enjoy ourselves, we can do whatever you want."
"What about what you want?"
"Maura, I've done things I've only dreamt about in the last several months. Trying different foods, going to Fenway... So many other things. And I've done them all with you. So I don't care what you choose to do today."
"Whatever I want?"
"Whatever you want."
"Well... There is one thing, but I'm not sure we can." Maura said with a frown, running through the different scenarios in her head.
"I can't promise anything, but I could try. Tell me what you want." Jane lifted Maura's head up by her chin, gazing into hazel eyes that were deep in thought.
"What would happen if Riley joined us?"
"Your friend that was in the hospital?" Jane asked, and Maura nodded her head yes. "What's her last name? I forget what the doctor said."
"Cooper."
"Riley Cooper..." Jane whispered, and her eyes suddenly went wide. "Holy shit, I know her."
"You do? But... How?"
"Well if it's the same person, Riley works on the Resistance base. Tall, dark skinned, kind of a smart ass but really nice?"
"That's her." Maura smiled at the accurate description.
"Hmm... I don't know how she got on the base, but maybe it won't hurt taking her with us?"
"She's my best friend, Jane... I couldn't leave her behind to face all of this by herself. After all, she did help us out by lying to Dennis about me having an apartment." Maura pointed out. "If we tell Cavanaugh about us, then she could be safe as well."
"It's worth a shot." Jane shrugged, not minding bringing Riley with them. "Like I told you, things changed the moment I went back in time."
"No fate but what we make, right?" Maura recalled the saying Jane told her that night they first slept together.
"Bingo. So if Riley can be trusted to keep things secret, then I don't see why she can't come with us. Who knows, maybe that's how she got on the base and it just didn't happen yet."
"She can absolutely be trusted... Does this mean you'll let her go with us to the shelter?"
"As long as she doesn't put the moves on my fiancée, then why the hell not?"
"You won't have to worry about that, my love." Maura laughed as she kissed Jane again. "Riley is as straight as they come."
"Oh good." Jane said as she let out an exaggerated sigh of relief, making both of them laugh. "Well, we have a week before the attacks but we should go get her now. If we start driving within the hour, we can be back in Boston by nightfall."
Maura threw her arms around Jane again as she excitedly told her "Thank you, thank you, thank you! You have no idea how much this means to me."
"You don't need to thank me, Maura. I just want to make you happy." Jane smiled as she returned the tight hug. She had a pretty good idea of why it was so important to Maura of having Riley go with them. She was the only one besides Jane that survived Dennis' murderous rampage. Her parents were killed right in front of her, and Maura was going to leave behind everything and everyone she knew and loved. Bringing along her best friend was something Jane knew she could do for Maura. It was one thing from her past that she could save and hold onto.
After the emotional embrace ended, the pair got back onto the ferry and watched as Lady Liberty became more and more distant. They got into Maura's blue Prius that was parked on the docks, since her recognizable car wasn't being searched for anymore, and began the long drive back to Boston.
February 2016, Dorchester Apartments in Boston
"Maura, what are you doing here?" Riley wondered as she rubbed her tired eyes. "You do know it's after midnight."
"I know, I'm sorry if I woke you... But we need to talk to you."
"We?" She yawned as Jane stepped into the doorway of Riley's apartment, getting the college graduate's attention. "I remember you. You're that girl that saved Maura last year. Jane, right?"
"Yeah. Do you mind if we come in? It's important."
Riley sensed something was wrong, based on their demeanor and facial expressions, and stepped aside. "Sure, come on in. Should I be sitting down?"
"I would if I were you." Jane replied as she shut the door behind them, and the three went over to sit on the couch.
"What's this about, Maura? Where have you been lately? I haven't seen you in months."
"I've been traveling across the country with Jane." She responded, carefully avoiding her former roommate's first question. Maura didn't want to dive into it, and instead briefly summarized what she's been up to. "After my parents funeral, I couldn't go back to school. It was too difficult for me... So Jane and I got away from it all for a while."
"Is Jane your girlfriend or something?" Riley looked between the two, noticing how they were holding hands.
"Not anymore. We got engaged this afternoon." Maura informed, smiling at Riley's jaw dropping from shock.
"Wow... I didn't expect that. Well, congratulations to you guys. I don't have any champagne to celebrate, but I have a few beers left in the fridge if you want."
"Thank you, but we're ok... Jane? I think you should start, you know more about this than I do."
"Right." Jane nodded, and turned to face Riley. "Are you familiar with the company called SkyNet?"
"Not really." The young woman shrugged. "I just know that they make weapons all over that world. Why?"
"Last year, they began manufacturing a new line of machinery capable of replacing soldiers in combat. In a few days, they're going to test them out but something goes horribly wrong. The machines and computer system will become self aware and turn against them. They invade every computer in the world and launch missiles, targeting cities across the globe with the highest populations. The devastating attack will be known as Judgement Day. There-"
"Whoa, hold up." Riley interrupted, having heard enough. "What the hell are you on? Do you have any idea how absolutely ridiculous and crazy that sounds?"
"Riley, please..." Maura begged her friend. "I know how this sounds, but please let her finish."
"Yeah, whatever..." She waved Jane off, letting her continue as she sat back into couch. "What happens after this so called Judgement Day?"
"Survivors band together and formed a military like group called the Resistance..." Jane said, not minding the interruption since it was pretty hard to believe. "They fought back against SkyNet and the machines, but weren't getting anywhere for years. It wasn't until the 2035, did they get a serious advantage. Maura creates a virus that cripples their defense systems, and the soldiers were able to gain access to their base. I was the one that led that mission... After the building and computers were destroyed, we thought the war was over and done with. It wasn't. A few of the machines, we call them terminators, sent one of their own back in time to kill Maura. So that she never creates the virus."
"Oh now we've got time travel... This story just gets better and better." Riley laughed humorlessly, wondering why Maura was engaged to a lunatic like this. "Sorry, go ahead."
"Anyway..." The Resistance fighter tried to remain patient and calm, not wanting to lose her cool with the clearly annoyed woman. "I volunteered to go back in time as well and protect Maura from the terminator. The night I came back, was the night Maura met a man named Dennis."
"That son of a bitch that attacked me and killed her parents?" She growled through gritted teeth, still angry over the fact that he hadn't been found. Riley stood up and began pacing a small distance, but Jane remained seated as she continued her explanation.
"Yes. Dennis was the terminator sent back to kill her... That night you were attacked, was because he was after her. I managed to get her away and lose him."
"Well... That part makes sense. I vaguely remember being strangled by the same guy who was hitting on Maura at the bar. Everything went blank after that."
"Dennis found us a few times, and we always managed to escape him. Except the last time. I nearly died saving Maura, but we were still able to destroy the machine."
"Wait... Let me get this right. You're from the future, came back in time to protect Maura from some human looking robot, and basically the world is going to end in a few days? That's what you're telling me?"
"I can prove it to you."
"Oh yeah? How?" Riley arched a dark eyebrow at Jane, challenging her.
"You have a tattoo along the right side of your ribcage. A cross with the birth and death date of your mother. You got that last month right after she died."
Riley's dark skin paled as if she had seen a ghost. She swallowed a hard lump in her throat before stuttering out "H-how did you know that? I never told anyone."
"Because I know you in the future. You work on the Resistance base as a teacher."
"A teacher? That doesn't... But... I'm not even qualified yet."
"You're the most qualified out of anyone there. You and Maura are the two smartest people on the base."
"Maura? Is this really true? I want you to tell me yourself. I know you can't lie."
"Yes, Riley. It's true... I didn't believe it myself at first, but then I saw Dennis for what he really was." Maura pulled her shirt down slightly to show that there were no hives on her chest. Even the whitest of lies would cause an allergic reaction. Riley knew that Maura was the most honest person on the Earth, but this was difficult to digest. "I would never lie to you or anyone. Please believe us."
"Let's just say I do believe you for a minute... Why are you telling me this?"
"Because you're my best friend and I want you to live. Jane and I have a shelter we're going to hide out in until it's safe to go to the Resistance. I want you to come with us."
"What do you have to lose?" Jane asked as the two friends stared at one another, standing up to walk over to Riley. "If we're making this up, then nothing is gonna happen and you can come back here. I'll just be some crazy homeless person that told you a ridiculous lie..."
"Only one way to find out." Riley announced as she stood toe to toe with the experienced soldier. Maura feared they were about to fight, but was shocked yet again as Riley asked "How long do I have to pack?"
February 2016, Northern Maine Mountains
After being on the road for almost 24 hours, only stopping to get a few more supplies, the trio finally made it to the bomb shelter. Although it was deeply hidden within a thick forest, Jane knew the exact coordinates to get there.
The Italian woman drove the very large truck down the dirt and moss covered path, the three of them bouncing up and down as she did.
"Not much further..." Jane commented to the others. "It should be just around this bend."
"Yeah, let's see this big ol' fortress of yours that'll protect us from the world going to shit."
"You're still the same smart ass, I see." Jane retorted with a smirk. "Time certainly didn't change you much."
"Jane..." Maura chided, trying to conceal her chuckling but failing miserably. "You can't fault Riley for being a little sarcastic. She still came with us, after all."
"And promised not to say anything about your delusion, so there." Riley added as she crossed her arms, just as a small cabin between two trees came into view. "Is that it? What the hell kind of shelter is this?"
"The shelter is underneath it, genius." Jane laughed as she looked at the rotting one room structure. It looked as though it were crumbling to the ground, one soft puff of breath being enough to finish the job. The abandoned look Cavanaugh had created really made it impossible for people to know there was anything inside, let alone under it. "There should be a faded orange sign on the door that says private property, no trespassing on it."
Riley bit her tongue to refrain from saying that Jane could've known that from another time she's been there, and instead kept her dark brown eyes trained on the cabin as she hopped out of the truck.
"I'll unlock the cabin. You two can stay at the truck to start unpacking stuff if you want, or you can come and explore with me for a bit." Jane gestured to the rental, which was now stolen. She knew that with all the supplies they had gathered over the last several months, her and Maura would need something pretty big to hold it all. So Maura suggested 'renting' a moving truck, and never bother to return it since there wouldn't be a point.
"Explore, unpack everything later." Both Maura and Riley said at the same time, and made their way over to where Jane was.
"Ok, let's do this."
Jane saw the vine covered lock on the door, and grabbed a large rock nearby. She got a good grip on it before smashing it against the lock, but it didn't break. The Resistance fighter paused for a moment to gather some more strength, and smashed at the lock again. This time, it did break. Little clouds of dust puffed into the air around her hands, vines falling to the ground as well.
"Got it!" The brunette woman yelled victoriously, pumping her fist. She pushed open the creaking door, Maura holding up a flashlight so they could see inside the pitch black dwelling. "Careful, there's some moss and vine covered rocks on the floor."
"Jane, wait... Move your foot." Maura instructed, seeing her fiancée's boot kick up an old rug. It seemed to have been covering a large hatch. "Help me pull this off."
Maura handed the flashlight to Riley, who watched as the pair yanked the heavy rug away from its spot on the floor. There was a clear and distinct rectangle, dust and spiderwebs outlining where the rug had been for the last several decades. Underneath it was a thick wooden door, a metal lock that appeared to have been cleaned or brand new.
"I knew it." Jane smirked. "Cavanaugh kept this place going, only having the outside look shitty so no one would think to come in here."
"This Cavanaugh guy is the owner of this place I take it?" Riley inquired as she helped clear the area with them.
"Yes. His grandfather built this shelter many years ago during the Second World War, I believe. Jane told me he was scared that the nazis would invade the United States, so this was his secret hideaway. It was passed down to the Commander after his grandfather died, but he never used it. He figured it would be perfect for Jane and I to hide out in while the Resistance is forming."
While Maura and Riley talked, Jane worked on getting the lock open. It was a simple 5 digit passcode, one the soldier had memorized in the future. She quickly punched in the numbers 81094, waiting for the little red light to turn green.
"Come on..." Jane begged in a whisper, holding her breath for what felt like an eternity when it was really a second. The light color switched, signifying that the door was unlocked. "Yes!"
Jane carefully lifted the door until it was fully open, and rested it against the floor. From the entryway they saw a steel staircase leading downwards to a well lit hallway.
"Must be a generator down there somewhere. Cavanaugh assured me we'd have enough power to last us around 2-3 years..."
"Is there a bathroom with a working toilet and shower?" Maura asked Jane. She knew down the road there'd be certain hardships, but wasn't sure if they'd go without cleaning themselves.
"Yeah. He said there's two toilets and showers. His grandfather wanted to be very prepared... You guys ready to go down?"
Riley and Maura exchanged glances, and nodded at the soldier. One by one, they walked down the solid steps. Once they made it down into the hallway, they were shocked to see the walls covered with a variety of guns and a practically endless amount of ammo.
"Oh come on!" The lieutenant shouted as she stomped her foot, making Maura giggle in response. "This would've really been useful last year!"
"Well at least we'll have protection on the way back to Boston..." Maura said as her hazel eyes scanned the massive weapons collection. "I'm sure we won't need them all, though. We can give what's left over to the Resistance. I bet they'll really appreciate having this."
"I guess so..." Jane replied, still frustrated and pouting. "But man, if I had even one or two if these guns... Dennis would've been done for a lot earlier than he was. I wouldn't have almost died."
Maura also thought about what would've happened. Maybe her parents would be with them right now. She shook her head, willing away the what ifs, and focused on what will be her new home for the next year.
The young women walked down the hall, looking at the long rows of weapons as they did, until they found two doorways. These ones were open and unlocked, not requiring codes of any kind.
The first room entered was a living room of sorts. There was a couch, a TV, some tables, and even a bookshelf filled with a variety of literature. Jane's eyes instantly gravitated toward a single sheet of paper left on the sofa.
"What's it say?" Riley asked the brunette, who held the piece of paper in her hand.
"It's a checklist and time sheet. The last time Cavanaugh was down here was January 2015. Each room was checked for any problems. The air ventilation system, water tanks and pressure, plumbing, electricity... Looks like everything is in working order."
"That's good." Maura breathed a sigh of relief. "Let's go take a look around. If the rest of this place is anything like the living room, we'll be very comfortable for a while."
Both women agreed with her assessment and left the living room, going back into the hall and across to the next room. Opening the door, they saw a bedroom with a couple bunk beds in them, 2 doors on opposite sides of the room that led to the bathrooms. There were also 2 long dressers inside, but after pulling out the drawers, they discovered no clothes were in them.
"Well it's a good thing we brought our own clothes..." Riley joked. "This place isn't too bad, though. Little dull, but it definitely seems like a safe place to be if something bad were to happen."
Jane ignored Riley's sarcasm. She understood why she was that way, but it got a little annoying after a while. The time traveler knew that in the future, on the rare occasions that they spoke or interacted, Riley was a good woman. So she didn't want to fight with her in any way. Besides, she was Maura's best friend and didn't want to cause any problems.
"I call top bunk over here." The beautiful dark skinned woman claimed, tossing a bag onto the mattress. She jumped up and tested it out, lying on her back to soak in the much needed comfort it brought after sitting up in a truck for many hours. "Now this is nice. I could get used to this."
Maura grinned at her friend relaxing and kicking off her shoes, and turned to Jane who was busy looking around the room.
"What do you prefer?" She asked her fiancée. "Top or bottom?"
"I like being on top." Jane winked, pulling Maura closer. She playfully nipped at her neck but stopped when Riley groaned. "What's wrong?"
"Am I gonna have to sleep on the couch while you two lovebirds are going at it? I had to deal with that all through college, but at least then I could leave and go drink somewhere."
"I can assure you that we won't be getting intimate with you in the room, Riley." Maura laughed, knowing she was just kidding with them. "We have more self control than you think."
"Yeah, yeah..." She waved her off with a smile. "So tell more about yourself, Jane. How did you win this girl's heart?"
Jane was surprised Riley was suddenly being so nice, and instead of questioning it, she simply gave her an answer. "I honestly have no idea. One night after running for our lives, we just sort of bonded. We had a moment, and it grew from there."
"Who made the first move?"
"We both sorta did... I was teaching her self defense moves and we kissed."
Maura smiled at the memory while Jane was retelling the story, and made sure to add "I was the first to admit my feelings. I thought Jane didn't love me back, but she said it right away. That was one of the best nights of my life, despite almost getting run off the road by a terminator."
"That sounds so... Sweet?" Riley laughed. "So about these terminators. Are more coming back for you? What's the story?"
"No. Jane's team secured the sight where the time travel machine is located. It was either destroyed or deactivated." The future doctor responded. "Jane wanted to be sure that nothing else would follow her through, just to be safe. One terminator was almost more than we could handle."
"You guys relax and keep talking. I'm gonna go check the maintenance room and see how the generator is doing, then go start bringing down supplies." Jane said, pointing over her shoulder with her thumb. "I'll be right back."
Jane gave her a peck on the lips before leaving, giving the roommates a moment alone.
"This is really happening, isn't it?" Riley whispered, staring at the ceiling. "If what Jane said is true, then do you realize how many innocent people will die?"
Maura went over to the bunk Riley was lying on, and stood beside it, resting her chin on her arms. With a heavy sigh, she said "It's horrible. I wish we could do something to change it, but we can't."
"Why not? You had so much time to do so." Riley asked, perching herself up on her elbow. She wasn't mad, though. She knew Maura would've done everything in her power to warn people, but there had to have been a really good reason not to.
"I know, but it would've messed everything up... Time would change and certain things won't happen. Jane pointed out that her brothers may not be born, as well as many other children living on the base. Or those that become soldiers. Not only that, but people would think we're crazy and lock us up in some mental institution. Then things would really go wrong..."
"That makes sense, I suppose. It just sucks that all this has to happen..." Riley said as she started to cry. She angrily wiped away the tears, refusing to let any more fall. "It's fucked up. It really is."
"Yes it is." Maura agreed with obvious sadness in her voice. "Does this mean you finally believe us and accept it?"
"I believed you the moment you said it. I just didn't want to... I was hoping it was part of some sick joke, but deep down I knew it wasn't. But do I accept it? Hell no."
Maura knew what she meant. She accepted what was going to happen on some level, but didn't like it. The smaller woman smiled sadly before saying "And that's ok."
They sat in silence for a few minutes until they heard noises coming from outside in the hall. Jane walked in with several bags on her arms, unintentionally showing off her strength and muscles. Maura had to clear her throat to refocus, not wanting to distract herself. She could lose herself with that later.
"Checked the generator, it's still fully functional. I think when I entered the code at the door things automatically turned on. I guess it works as an energy saver or something... I got most of the clothes, but there's still a ton of stuff left in the truck. We should get everything out tonight so I can get rid of the truck as soon as possible. We wouldn't anyone seeing it and tracing it back to us."
"Of course. Riley, would you mind helping us carry things in?"
"Sure, no problem." She replied, hopping off the bed and ready to go back outside.
Although there were a lot of supplies, the truck was quickly cleared out since there were 3 people taking things into the shelter. From clothes, to cases of water and other beverages, to various toiletries, and electronics. Anything and everything to keep them alive and entertained for quite some time.
Once everything was brought in and put where they belonged, Jane instructed Maura and Riley to stay put while she drove the truck into a nearby town. She didn't want them going with her in case something were to happen, so Jane went alone. Not only could they lock themselves inside the shelter, but they also had a ton of protection with the guns and other weapons lying around. Jane felt that they'd be safe enough until she got back.
The Italian took the truck into a driveway behind a parking garage, using the dark sky to conceal her movements. She pulled a container of gas out of the truck, pouring the strong smelling liquid all over it.
Jane stepped away to a safe distance, and tossed a lit match towards the truck. Within seconds, it was engulfed in flames. She watched for a few minutes, making sure that it burned to the point where any trace evidence of Maura, Riley, and herself being in the vehicle was destroyed. It was highly unlikely anyone could ever find them due to the truck, but she wanted to destroy it just in case.
When she got back to the shelter, only being gone an hour, Jane saw Maura and Riley in what appeared to be a funny conversation.
"It's like you have your own little library down here!" Riley laughed as she stood by the large stacks of books.
"It's never a bad thing to have knowledge." Maura defended with a smirk. "Besides, I'm going to need to know a lot so I can create the virus."
"Do you think it'll be hard?"
"That's difficult to say. I have no idea what sort of technology SkyNet has yet, but it must be very advanced."
"I bet." Riley agreed, then said "I don't remember much, but that Dennis guy was really strong. How hard was it to kill him, anyways?"
"Very hard. Jane shot him several times that night at the bar, but it didn't do anything to him."
"So what finally took him down?"
"Jane and I used a pipe bomb we made to blow him up. We were very lucky we weren't killed... Jane was stabbed and already suffering from severe car injuries. I was alone and terrified I would die next, and I almost did. Dennis got very close but Jane saved me again."
"Jane seems like an ok girl. Little rough around the edges, but with what she grew up with I'm surprised she didn't go insane."
"I believe it was her brothers that kept her sane all those years..."
"Yeah, they're what got me through a lot of tough times." Jane said, chuckling as she saw the two of them jump at her sudden appearance. "Sorry to interrupt and scare you, but I couldn't help but overhear you guys talking."
"That's ok." Her new friend assured. "Maura was just telling me about how you guys took down Dennis. Major props to you for taking out that bastard after how hurt and banged up you were."
"Thanks." Jane smiled, happy that Riley seemed to be coming around finally. "I was just trained to ignore pain. I wouldn't have stopped until I was sure Maura was safe from that thing."
Riley looked into Jane's eyes and saw honesty. It was obvious by the way she looked at Maura that she cared very much for her.
"I don't doubt that one bit."
"So..." Jane said with a certain time of her voice, signaling that she was changing the conversation, and neither minded. "We're all set up here. How about we settle in and watch a movie? You guys mind if we watch my favorite, The Fox and the Hound?"
Maura rolled her eyes over the fact that Jane wanted to watch the same movie for what seemed to be the 100th time since they've met. She didn't mind, though. The way Jane's eye lit up in excitement made Maura fall for her even more.
Riley, however, stood up from the couch and grinned. She too loved that movie. "Jane, I think you and I will get along just fine."
2039, Beacon Hill
It had been 4 years since the war ended. The time machine was destroyed after Jane revealed she was alive and successful with her mission, but the files related to it were kept hidden deep within the Resistance's base if they ever needed it in the future. The only reason being is if SkyNet or a new enemy would use the machine for a similar mission, or anyone that tried to go back in time and inadvertently mess things up. No one wanted to though, they all knew the dangers of time travel.
Things were slowly getting back to normal in the world. Streets were being cleaned, and decaying structures were demolished and new buildings were made in their place. Trees and flowers were being planted everywhere, their beauty helping restore hope in the world. There was still a long way to go, but people were happy they even had the opportunity to do so at all.
Children that were born in underground bases, who had never seen the light of day, were spending as much time as possible playing outside or just enjoying the fresh air as well as the bright sun and moon. They had only seen pictures in family photo albums or history books, but seeing it all for real fascinated every one of them. Both kids and adults, swore to themselves that they'd never take such beautiful things like those for granted ever again.
Other parts of the world had also begun the long process of rebuilding, having been given Maura's virus to take down SkyNet in their areas as well.
It seemed that humanity being in the brink of extinction brought all races together, there being no more animosity. In fact, countries had offered their help to former enemies in taking out the terminators or even giving survivors much needed supplies.
It didn't take long for the last of the terminators to be destroyed, but everyone was still on guard in case any were hiding out somewhere. Scouters traveled all over the globe in search of them, occasionally coming across one or two, but it seemed things were finally over.
Jane and Maura were also grateful that their relationship was instantly accepted, not because they were heroes, but because no one cared about sexual preferences anymore. All people cared about was sticking together and fighting the real enemy, SkyNet.
Once things started moving at a fast pace and people joined one another in rebuilding civilization, Jane and Maura returned to Beacon Hill and took over what used to be the Isles residence. Jane retired from fighting in the Resistance, but got a new job training recruits with Frost. It wasn't as time consuming, so Jane had plenty of time at home with her family.
"I never thought I'd be doing this." Jane said as she stood on a tall ladder, painting the second floor of their home. They've been in their new home for a little over 2 years, but Jane was just finally getting around to touching up the outside.
"Me too. I never thought about returning to my old home... It's a little bittersweet, but it feels right to be here. I think my parents would've wanted that." Maura replied as she looked up at her wife, her sweaty muscles glistening from the sun shining brightly on her.
"It just feels good to be above ground. These last few years have been amazing... I was worried about
Tommy and Frankie for a while. I never wanted them to become soldiers and see the things I have."
Her brothers lived in what used to be Constance and William's guest house. Since they're teenagers now, Jane felt that they were old enough to sleep by themselves. Although the guest house was just a few feet away from the main one. It required most of the work, since it was smaller and easily demolished by the destruction. Most of the main house still stood, but needed many repairs.
"I'm glad they never had to fight." Maura agreed, nearly shivering at the thought of the young boys being shipped off into a war. They definitely would've volunteered to serve in the Resistance, always wanting to follow in their big sister's footsteps. Although they were Jane's brothers, Maura got to know and love them very fast and thought of them as family and didn't want anything to happen to them. "Now they're living a normal and happy life. Thanks to you."
"It wasn't just me, Maur." Jane smiled appreciatively as she finished painting around the windows, and starting stepping down to get off of the ladder. "You're the one who worked tirelessly. You never gave up. I've never seen anyone with the strength and determination you have."
"Thank you, my love. But you're the one who helped me get this strong. Before, I was just some naïve college student. You've helped me become a better person over the years. So I can't take all of the credit."
"Agree to disagree?" Jane grinned, and wrapped her arms around her wife's waist. Maura nodded and leant into the embrace, not caring that Jane was covered in paint. The former soldier kissed Maura softly, but after hearing Maura's little moan, the kiss intensified. She slipped her tongue past the pair of perfect pink lips, massaging it with Maura's.
"Gross!" They heard Tommy yell, making a fake gag noise as they broke the kiss.
"Hey, just wait until you get a girlfriend and see how gross kissing is then!" Jane shouted teasingly, almost laughing at the horrified look on her little brother's face.
"No way. Never getting with anyone." The teen replied, but both women knew it was only a matter of time before he would change his mind about dating.
"Oh come on, kid. Dating isn't that bad." Another voice suddenly called out from the end of the freshly paved driveway. All three of them turned their heads and saw Riley walking over to them, a bright and happy smile etched across her face.
The former Resistance teacher lived not far from them, often dropping by to visit. Once the bombs started falling, that's when it all became terrifyingly real for her. She understood the risks of saying anything to anyone, so Riley swore to Jane and Maura that she would keep things a secret. She lied about her past, except to Cavanaugh, saying that her and Maura had been out of the blast range during the attacks on Boston and went to the Resistance when they heard survivors had band together. Like Jane had told her, she was given a job. A simple one, and one she liked. Riley taught children in a makeshift classroom. Although she was a party girl back at BCU, Riley was incredibly smart and aced all of her classes like Maura. So she was perfect for the job, especially since there were no other teachers around. She occasionally spoke with Jane's younger self, whenever she would drop off her brothers for school. It felt strange to Riley, talking with someone she knew and who had no idea what the future had in store for them.
During their time in the shelter, Riley often teased Maura and Jane about being so lovey dovey together. Her and Jane got along great, both tough girls and often sparred with one another. They bonded over their love of fighting and movies, which made Maura thrilled her wife and best friend became fast friends. She was worried that they'd butt heads at first, being so alike and all, but during the first few weeks in shelter things got better between the two.
Speaking of sparring, Maura also became pretty good at it. During and after the shelter, Jane constantly taught her everything she knew. Maura even beat her a few times, fairly and without any unsuspecting traps with kisses like before.
"You're biased, Mrs. Chang! You're married too." Tommy laughed at his friend and neighbor, just as Riley's wife Susie joined the group.
Susie Chang was Maura's assistant in the computer labs, always helping her with whatever she needed. One day, Maura was talking with Riley when Susie politely interrupted them with an important discovery about SkyNet's system. Maura had found this earlier, but it needed time to be decrypted so she took a short break to speak with her friend. Riley ran back with the two doctors and watched as Maura found her way through flaw, managing to upload the virus without being detected or tripping an alarm of some sort. The three of them screamed with excitement as the Resistance was finally given the advantage they needed to end the war.
Ever since that day they were introduced, Riley and Susie became inseparable. It surprised Maura greatly how close they became, even more so when they announced they were girlfriends. Jane teased Maura saying that "I guess Riley wasn't as straight as you thought, huh?"
Maura was of course very happy for both of them. Riley always had one night stands and meaningless hook ups with people, never finding the right person like she always wanted. Susie was a bit of a loner, not a very social person. But that all changed once she met Riley. They dated for 2 years when Riley worked up the courage to propose, asking her close friend Jane for help. Together, they helped create a romantic evening for the occasion.
Their anniversary was coming up, which was why Riley had gone over to Jane and Maura's house. As Riley was messing around with Tommy, Susie asked them "Riley and I were having a little get together with all of our friends tomorrow, and wanted to know if you guys would join us. Tell Frost to come too, if you happen to see him before I do."
"Yeah, absolutely." Jane happily replied, cleaning her paint covered hands with a rag.
"We'd love to." Maura also said, then added "I still have some wine from the day we went to the shelter. After all the time it's been sitting, it must taste amazing. You know how wine gets better with age."
"That would be great. Thanks, Maura. You guys don't need to bring anything else, just yourselves. Tell Frankie he's invited too. I think Korsak's niece has her eyes on him."
"Yuck, now you're trying to get my bro to date girls, too?!" Tommy whined adorably.
The four women laughed at his words, and Jane told him "It won't be long until we bring you over to the dark side, too."
"Nope. Never!" The young Rizzoli declared before running off, back to the guest house.
"Kids, huh?" Riley joked as she watched Tommy disappear into the house. "So, I'll see you guys tomorrow around noon, then?"
"We'll be there." Both Maura and Jane said at the same time.
"Great. See ya then." Riley waved to them before leaving with her wife, walking back to their house which was only a few blocks away.
"I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted from fixing up the house all day. How about we just sit and relax on the porch, maybe watch the sunset together?" Jane asked as she linked hands with her wife of 23 years.
"That sounds perfect."
While holding hands, the pair sat down on two rocking chairs that Jane had made herself and watched the bright orange sun begin to fall in the distance.
"This reminds me of when I first told you I loved you, even though we watched the sun rise and not set." Maura commented a few minutes later after a blissful silence, gently rocking her chair back and forth as a pleasant breeze picked up. "It was such a beautiful day."
"Yeah, it was." Jane agreed, and picked up Maura's hand to softly kiss the back of it. "I gotta say, though... Even though it's more peaceful now, back then is my favorite memory."
"Mine too. I wouldn't change a single thing."
"Well, maybe the sex part... That truck wasn't all that comfortable."
"You know, we have a nice bed upstairs... You thinking what I'm thinking?" Maura wiggled her eyebrows suggestively, and Jane immediately took the hint.
"Hell yes." Jane jumped out of the chair, scooping Maura up into her strong arms bridal style, and carried her into their home as they both laughed.
"I love you, Jane."
"I love you too, Maur. Always have, always will."
Hahahahaha there was no way in hell I was ever going to kill Jane. Bet I had you guys fooled! I'll be honest though, I came very close to letting Jane die. It would've been a very different chapter, obviously. I had an idea and everything... But I'd rather have Jane live, it was a much happier ending.
Thank you all so much for each follow, favorite, and review. They mean the world to me.
Thanks for reading, and I hope you liked the last chapter of Time Between Us.