The Price We Pay

by CzechKris91

Things never went the way he wanted them. Sometimes it worked out, and other times it went horribly wrong. He paid the price when he decided to join his cousin in Liberty City. And now those around him would have to suffer for the choices he made. He only hoped he could keep those close to him safe when Death came to collect.

13. If The Price Is Right

There was a faint melody that slowly faded in and out, and it sluggishly tried to stir his thoughts toward consciousness. He struggled against it, wanting to stay floating in the darkness around him. There was no pain here. There were no feelings fighting for dominance, emotions to be deciphered, and no reason to give in to the hollowness that surrounded him. It was a never ending limbo that caressed him. It was where he would stay- where he wanted to stay.

The crinkle of paper was louder than the soft piano and it forced his brain to reboot. Things moved slowly for him, slower than they had when he was stuck in old memories of a war long passed. The firmness of the surface he rested against, had some give to it, and wasn't as harsh as the ground should've been. It was a confusing sensation and his body lightly shifted against it trying to figure out where he was laying.

He flexed his fingers and felt the slight pressure of a clamp of some sort on his index finger. There was rough edge of something plastic that scraped against his wrist that slid around on his arm when he rolled his joint. He forced his feet to wiggle and felt the weight of a blanket crumple around them. The next thing to come back to him was the sound of soft jazz music playing and it was a soothing, lighthearted tune, and did nothing to stop the train wreck of emotions from wanting to derail him.

Guilt was the first to force its way through his soul. So much guilt. He should never have gotten close to her. He should have listened to Packie and Gerry's warnings. He should have headed the cautionary signals that had kept him distant to begin with. But seeing how happy Roman was with Mallorie, knowing Bernie had found someone, and even hearing stories from Jacob about his girlfriend- it caused him to yearn for that something extra in life. Michelle, Karen, had been a distraction. Which led to worse events. But he had gotten a taste of what a relationship was like.

The thought of Bernie sent the second wave of remorse through him.

He did not deserve to die for his problems. Bernie had wholesomely joined in the fight without a second thought and had even befriended Kate. He had gained back a friendship that had carried him through the war. Only to watch it get shot to hell for his own carelessness. The heartrate monitor beeping overtook the soft music playing in the background and he could hear how quick his heartrate was accelerating.

He sucked in a slow, long breath to try and calm his racing heart, and smelt flowers. Lots of them by the intensity of the fragrance. It was pleasant and nothing like the burning foliage on Happiness Island. His mind tried to turn over the events after watching Kate fall back to the ground. He had let his last reserves of energy carry him through the trees to where he could hear people taunting Natalya. He had come across her in a new clearing by the base of the statue. Kenny, Gerry, Johnny, Packie, Roman, Bernard, Ron, Jacob, Badman, and a couple of other people he didn't recognize had her blocked in. He had been the final person to cage her in. The last nail in the coffin.

Kenny had given him the chance to put an end to everything, and he didn't hesitate to shoot. Maybe if he had been more resilient toward Faustin, things would have turned out differently. But it was beyond too late for those thoughts and what ifs. He had watched her life get snuffed out instantly when the bullet from his rifle went through her skull. He hardly registered Roman talking to him about winning and succeeding. He hadn't done any of that… Except for maybe getting the revenge that coursed through him, leaving behind a vast void.

"We're done! We are free! We won, man. We won!"

Roman's words echoed around in his mind and he turned his head to try and avoid hearing them again and again. His cheek brushed against a soft, cool, and plush surface and he cracked his eyes open to see what was trying to provide him with comfort. His sight was extremely blurry, and the brightness of his surroundings burned his eyes. He closed them against the brilliant sunshine that poured into the room. His eyelids did nothing to prevent the light from waking up the rest of his tired body, mind, and spirit. He wanted to groan at how his surroundings were trying to lift his sour mood, when all he wanted to do was wallow in the darkness.

The sound of paper being folded and dropped onto a solid surface caused his eyes to slowly open again. If he wasn't alone, he had better find out who was with him, and where exactly he was at. The last time he had come to, Kenny had been sitting dangerously close by, and he was not in the best of moods to deal with him again. His brain jumped to the conclusion of a hospital room; what with all the machine noises, heart rate monitor, the stiffness of the sheets that pressed against him, and the overall brightness of the place. He blinked several times to get his eyes to focus on what was right in front of him.

He could make out a faux leather couch/ futon that rested underneath the uncovered glass window. The sky was bright blue and not a cloud was in sight. There was a small amount of frost that lined the corners and edges of the thick panned glass. The sunshine hurt to look at for too long and he dropped his attention back to the couch. A pillow, folded blankets, and a faded, old leather jacket rested on the surface. He recognized it as one of his own. The one he had worn the night he had rescued Kate from the Albanian's that broke into the McReary home.

His eyes threatened to water the longer he stared at the article of clothing. He would need to start shoving everything down inside himself if he were going to function around other people. He had figured out how to disassociate himself after his Aunt's death, and he would do it again with Kate's passing. He would not let anyone know how much he was hurting. That was something he would allow himself to indulge in to when he was alone. And preferably with a good bottle of vodka close by.

He took in another long breath to force the guilt away from him and decided that he would need to figure out how to call a nurse to his room. A headache was forming behind his eyes and it was irritating to say the least. He let his eyes roam from the couch toward the foot of his bed, turning his head with the motion. As his head was partially tilted away from the couch, he noticed a figure was sitting in the recliner. They tilted their head to the side slightly, and uncrossed their arms, as they realized he was staring at them. He had to squint against the brightness from the window to make out who was in the room with him. It took a moment for his eyes to adjust before he recognized who was there.

"Well sleepy head, it's about time you rejoined the living!" Bernie smiled broadly and dropped his leg from his lap, letting both feet plant firmly on the tiled floor of the hospital. His smile was practically its own light source with how he beamed at him.

"I'm dead, aren't I? This is some kind of limbo gateway to hell, right?" Niko spoke out against the dryness in his throat. He started to cough when his vocal cords constricted from the use.

"I sure as hell hope not. Because I wouldn't be caught dead in this dreadful outfit for the rest of eternity!" Bernie huffed out, shoving out of his chair to walk over to a tray table next to Niko's bed. He lifted a thick plastic mug that had a bendy straw sticking out of it and held it out for Niko to take a couple of sips. "Honestly. Blah gray sweats are not doing me any favors!" He looked down at the lightweight gray sweatshirt and sweatpants and stuck his tongue out in disgust.

Niko swallowed several large gulps of the cold water before leaning back into the pillow, "I. I don't understand. I thought…? Florian?" His eyes were definitely playing tricks on him. This couldn't be real. 'I'm hallucinating. Have to be…'

"Bernie." He rolled his eyes before giving him a slightly hurt and hard look. This was going to be a difficult conversation to get through, and he knew he probably only had a few moments before they were interrupted. He let out a soundless sigh and waited for Niko to decide if he was done with the water. When Niko didn't try to take another sip, he moved the cup back from his friend.

"You thought me gone? Niks! Come on now. I was shot far worse in the ambush." Bernie set the cup aside and lowered down to the edge of Niko's hospital bed. He sighed heavily, letting his body release some of the tension from his shoulders, and let his expression drop. It really was too close of a call. He reached out and lightly patted Niko's hand, "But if I'm being honest. I thought that was it. I had made peace with my demons and said my goodbyes. I had saved my best friend and figured I had at least done something good with my life." His lips quirked into a half smile before fading away, not daring to meet the eyes of Niko.

"How?" Niko only blankly looked at him before it clicked in his mind. Only the real Bernie would correct him. In his mind, he was always Florian, and he was having a hard time believing what was right in front of him. Bernie's hand was warm where it rested over his own and he turned his palm up to be able to grasp at it. He could feel the strong heartbeat beneath his fingertips. He watched his friend's chest rise and fall with each breath he took. Could see the way his eyes shifted everywhere but to his face. He was paler than normal, but he wasn't cold. 'He's real. He is here- alive. He. He made it!'

"I died twice on the table. At least that's what the doctor told me. I lost a lot of blood." Bernie used his other hand to lift up his sweatshirt to reveal a large, almost healed scar along his side where he had taken a bullet. There were several other stitched up scars on his chest, but they looked to be in the final stages of healing. Not like they had just happened. He released the cloth fabric and finally mustered the courage to look to Niko's face. "Help had arrived just in time for me. I just kept holding on knowing that our mission wasn't finished. I needed to get back out there to help you…" Bernie's eyes watered, and he looked back down to their hands, wiping away the few tears that tried to escape down his cheeks.

"It was my fault Bernie. I wasn't paying attention. You almost died because of me. I'm- I'm sorry." Niko tightened his hold on Bernie's wrist and kept trying to focus on the heartbeat he could feel there. His friend was alive, breathing, and sitting before him looking better than what he was expecting. His eyebrows knitted together as he realized how healed over his wounds were, "What day is it?" He couldn't be sure, but something felt very off to him now.

"It's November first Niko. You've been out for three weeks. And by the thickness of your facial hair, I'd say it was a lot longer." Bernie teased, smiling slightly as he glanced up at the thicker scruff of his friend's face, "Although if I'm going by your hair growth then it's more like a month and a half." He scrunched up his face and let out a small chuckle, "I am more than happy to get that situation under control." This time he let himself fully laugh.

Niko lifted his other hand, noticing the heart rate monitor clamped to his index finger, and ran his hand over the fuller, longer hair on the top of his head. His mind was reeling with how much time had passed. How badly was he injured? He could remember the one bullet that managed to get through his vest, but the two to the chest shouldn't've broken through. The drugs he took couldn't have led to more complications unless he really did almost bleed out. But still… That was so much time to be under. His frown deepened as his thoughts started to spiral further out of control.

'Three weeks… Kate has been gone three weeks and I haven't been there for Packie, Gerry, or Francis. They must all be so torn apart. Or ready to kill me. Maybe they left me here to die. Wouldn't blame them…'

"It's okay. I'll get you allllllll cleaned up in no time." Bernie slightly sang his words and Niko could almost see the gleeful expression blooming behind his eyes.

"Flori-"

"Bernie."

"Bernie! There are things that are more important than just my lack of shaving and trimming my hair-"

The door handle jiggled a few times before it finally gave way, "Hey Bernie? They didn't have your favorite tea restocked, so I made you coff…ee…" Kate pushed the door open with her back, carrying two steaming styrofoam cups of coffee and froze when her eyes landed on where Bernie was sitting. Niko and Bernie both were staring at her; Bernie's face was slowly forming into a rather mischievous smirk, while Niko just looked like he had met her for the first time. The door hit her shoulder when it tried to close, and she leaned forward to let it slide behind her to close with an audible click.

"You were saying Niko?" Bernie fought to keep the laugh from bubbling to the surface. He had hoped she would get back before Niko got around to asking him about her. It was better this way, and way more amusing to see. He glanced back down to his friend and saw he hadn't let his sights move from Kate. The tightening on his wrist was slightly concerning and he squeezed his hand back to let him know it was okay. That what he was seeing was real.

Bernie patted the hand that firmly gripped his wrist with his other hand, "I'll give you two lovebirds a minute." He had to pry Niko's fingers loose from his wrist. Carefully he sat up from the edge of the hospital bed and walked over to where Kate was frozen in place. He clasped the cup that was his and placed a kiss to her cheek, "Coffee is great. Though I'm sure the nurse is going to yell their head off at me about my caffeine intake during physical therapy today." He took a small sip and hummed at the way Kate knew how to make his coffee, "Worth it!"

Kate jumped with the kiss to her cheek and slightly came out of her daze. She nodded at Bernie and almost stumbled over her feet as he nudged her further into the room. Her heart was hammering away in her chest, her stomach pitched and rolled, and her mind went uselessly blank on her. She couldn't take her eyes away from his, the beautifully dark brown that was slowly turning guarded under her stare.

"Do remember dear that he just woke up and is still in an injured state." Bernie pinched her side and laughed heartily when she sent him a scathing glare and swatted at his hand playfully. He turned his gleeful eyes toward his comrade, his brother in arms, his protector, his best friend, "I'll keep the nurse from barging in. Say what needs to be said. Three weeks is a long time to wait to be held. Just don't do anything too embarrassing. I give it fifteen minutes top before one of her brother's come to check in on her. And, of course, to check in on you too. Then again fifteen minutes should be just the right amount of time to get out some pent-up urges-"

"Florian!"

"Bernie!"

"Okay, okay! Geez. Just trying to help." Bernie smiled at his two friends and opened the door, exiting quickly, pulling the door closed behind him.

The silence was only broken by the soft jazz music that was coming from a portable speaker on the surface of a cabinet. Kate picked at the styrofoam of her cup with her fingernails. She had counted every second that had passed since she woke up in her own hospital room to be able to see Niko again. Even if her body was tired, worn out, and wanted to drag her back into peaceful sleep- she forced herself to wake up every day. She refused to stay in bed and had attempted several times to slip out in the middle of the night to locate his room.

God love her brothers, Packie was the only one who seemed to understand her incessant need to see Niko. He had stolen a wheelchair from an adjacent room and helped sneak her down the various halls to get into Niko's room. She must have fallen asleep crying against his shoulder because the next morning she woke up back in her own hospital bed. It took a lot of convincing of the nurses and doctors and eventually came down to the IAA agent forcing them to give her an hour a day in Niko's room till she could be discharged on her own.

And now that she was standing before him, of her own volition, cleared medically, she felt glued to the spot.

Niko was at a complete loss. There she was standing before him, cheeks flushed and mostly healed, hair loosely pulled back into her typical ponytail. He tried to produce the right words, but what does one say to someone who they thought died? He had seen Natalya shoot her. From a distance sure, but she had gone limp from the gunshot. Regret stabbed through him as he realized he hadn't once tried to render aid or check on her after she was shot. He had just gone on autopilot and chased after Natalya. Maybe he would have been spared the soul crushing guilt if he had simply dropped down next to her to check on her injuries, and let the others handle Natalya. 'Darko had at least tried to take a bullet for her…'

But his rage, his revenge, kept him from going to Kate and forced him in the direction of his enemy.

He could hit himself right now. What kind of person abandons the one they love to go after their supposed murderer? He felt every thin thread of hope start to unravel. She would've known if he went to her. What if she thought he chose revenge over her? What if she didn't want to walk over and drop into his arms? What if the trust they had formed between them was shattered simply because he turned his back on her and took off to hunt down his prey? Revenge over life. Staying the course over moving on. He kept replacing things he'd done in his life and tried to image how much he hurt her by doing those things over leaving it all behind to be with her.

He watched as she minutely fidgeted under his gaze. He tried to convey all of his emotions, lack of words, and hope in his eyes to her. He was grasping at frayed ends, desperately trying to fuse them back together, to get back what he had- what they were building. He refused to admit that she would walk away. Or could walk away. He had given his all to save her and he had been helpless as the gun fired at her. He truly had given it all to get her back. So had his friends, and that had to count for something. Mean something more. While their relationship had been fairly new, he could've sworn it was as strong as one that had been going for a lifetime.

When his words kept failing him, his soul fracturing the longer the silence grew between them, he lifted his hand, and held it out for her to take. He would leave it in her hands to see if he were redeemable in her eyes. Was worth another chance. He would grab hold and never let go. He would leave the life of crime behind. He'd hang up the rifle. He would give it all up just to have her take his hand.

"Oh Niko!" Kate reached behind her and set the cup down next to the speaker and swiftly moved to the side of the bed where his hand trembled in midair. She moved his arm to the side and collapsed down into his chest, burying her face into her favorite place. She forced her arms around his neck and held on for dear life. The extra scratch from his scruff rubbed her forehead raw as she continued to nuzzle into the crook of his neck and collarbone. There was no place in the entire universe she would rather be, than right here.

Niko slid his eyes closed as she moved into his arms. He dug deep to find the strength to hold her tightly to his chest. He ignored the pain that shot through his sides, arms, legs, and chest. He had her back in his arms and he would not be letting her go anytime soon. He bunched his fingers into the soft fabric of the sweater she wore and tried to swallow the lump that formed in his throat. Slowly he dropped his cheek to the top of her head, returning the intense nuzzling she was doing. He could feel the sobs that shook her shoulders more than he could hear them and he scooted down the bed slightly to force her to look up to him.

She lifted off of him just enough to allow him to get more comfortable before she crashed her lips to his, closing her eyes to surrender to her need to feel him. Three weeks had built up this overwhelming need to just be held. To feel his arms settle around her shoulders or waist. Packie had given her several hugs, and even allowed her to cry on his shoulder one night when the nightmares started up. Bernie had let her snuggle into his side on the couch as they both kept a silent vigil over Niko that second week. Mallorie held her hand as they talked over baby names and themes for a baby shower. Roman kissed the top of her head and forehead when he could tell she was struggling. But nothing- nothing could satisfy her need to be held by Niko.

He let his hands drag over the fuzzy material of her sweater to pull her in closer. He slid his hand across her lower back and slipped under the hem of her top to feel the soft skin against the tips of his fingers. His other hand threaded into her hair beneath the ponytail and cupped her head. He returned the kiss with as much enthusiasm as she poured into him. He could feel his lungs burning with the lack of oxygen he was breathing in, but he wouldn't let up, not yet. He tilted his head and let the kiss deepen, hoping his actions would speak louder than any measly word in a second or third language would do.

The scratch against her cheeks and chin was new, as he had always kept his facial hair trimmed and short. But she ignored the burn of it and followed his lead hoping that he had missed this as much as her. Her heart clenched against the way her body was getting worked up. She was still injured in her own right and she would need to slow down soon, or pass out, which ever came first. His fingers brushed along her skin and ignited the yearning that she tucked down deep into the recesses of her mind. Her subconscious took control and she partially jolted against him as the warmth spread to every single cell in her body.

He could feel his own body wanting to react in ways that would do more damage than bring him pleasure. And he lessened the pressure of his kissing, trying to slow them from tumbling over the edge they were rapidly approaching. He dragged his hand up her back to cup her cheek, slipping his other free from her beautiful hair, to get her to focus those eyes he loved to him. Her eyes fluttered open with his instruction and he could see the slight clouding to her irises before it cleared away.

Her cheek was no longer bruised, and there was only a very faint line where the cut had been. He trailed his finger with the heart rate monitor clip over the line wishing it had never graced her skin. He watched as she licked her lips, and he mimicked the gesture. His eyes lowered to her neck to see that the red lines and finger marks had vanished. The black button down sweater was done up to the base of her neck and he frowned at not getting to see more of her. He leaned up off the bed to kiss the pulse point he could see, grateful to see her alive and well.

She couldn't stop the breathy moan even if she wanted to when his lips landed on her neck, "Niko. I'm so glad you're okay. I thought I lost you. She shot you twice at point blank range." Her bottom lip trembled, and she bit down on it to keep her resolve together. She could talk about this. She had spoken at length with Bernie and Roman about things. Had given several official statements to the IAA, FIB, LCPD, and left certain parts out- more like a certain someone. Parts that she wished she could have talked to Niko about first before having her words go on record. The man she had met at dinner so many weeks ago at Jerkov's had spoken to her privately and listened to every single detail, letting her know that it was okay to omit things. He would fill in where he could.

"I thought I lost you. You- I watched you as you were shot." Niko shifted under her weight as things started to hurt worse against the pressure. He lightly dragged his hands down from her cheeks to her back, fisting into the soft material. He couldn't make up his mind on whether this was some kind of lucid dream or if he was really awake. He had started to accept his failure and loss, then she walked into the room and took the air right from his lungs.

Kate lifted off of him and tucked herself into his side, letting him take in a full breath, "I'm not really sure what happened. I felt this horrible amount of pain that I had never felt before in my life. I thought that was it. I guess I fainted from all the pain I was in?" She mused. Things were still kind of hazy from that night. She pushed up from his side, holding her weight on her good arm, and undid a couple of buttons on her sweater. The fabric slipped down her shoulder and revealed a large bruise that covered the entire area over her heart. The bite mark was nothing but a couple of thin scars, having healed over the weeks since first being inflicted.

Niko ran the tips of his fingers over the area gently, studying the way the bruise was shaped and how there was a bullet scar below the indention of her collarbone. He couldn't figure out how the bullet hadn't gone right through to her heart, killing her instantly. "Did you have anything under the jacket?" He could guess that maybe Darko had put a bullet proof vest on her. Or had maybe thrown Natalya's aim off as he went to intercept the bullet.

"The man who helped me escape- He left a pistol in the inside breast pocket of his jacket. I remember feeling the weight of it against my chest the whole time we worked our way out of the ship." She slid off the bed and walked around it to the couch under the window. She lifted the blue duffle bag that she had brought from Niko's apartment from the floor and shifted a few things around inside before pulling a pistol free from the contents of her overnight bag. "It's all I have left of him. I never got his name. Your friend said the only fingerprints he could lift from the handle was mine, and a partial print that got no hits in whatever system they use." She held the pistol out for Niko to take.

He knew the instant the pistol came into view that it was Darko's service commissioned sidearm from their time in the war. It was the right make, model, and even showed wear and tear that would have come from continually holstering it and firing. He took the pistol from her hand and turned it over a couple of times, looking for the simple inscription he had put there. The faint, boxy, slanted letters greeted him along the barrel, and he felt a ghost of a smile try to lift the corners of his lips. His own pistol had the same message, and he kept that pistol tucked away in his Middle Park apartment. He turned it over in his hand and noticed some damage. One of the sides of the handle had gouge marks that had scraped off a good portion of metal. He held his free hand out to her and tugged her closer when she placed her hand down into his. She sat down in the place that Bernie had earlier, and he held the pistol up to the bruise.

"If it was in the pocket when you were shot. There is a chance this pistol took the brunt of the hit before the bullet entered you here." He grazed over the slightly puckered skin where he assumed the bullet had torn through her. He could only shake his head slightly at his rather dumb luck. He hadn't loaded full metal jacket rounds or hollow points in the pistols in his haste to get out of Playboy X's apartment. They were just the standard issued nine millimeter rounds that had been left in the apartment after he acquired it. If it had been any other type of ammunition, it would have done more damage. Possibly killing her instead of injuring her.

"I had never removed it. He did a rather good job of killing everyone that came for me." She glanced away from him and tried to keep the shudder to a minimum. He had been violent, ruthless, and cold. But when he turned his attention her direction, he would try to be softer. He had tried to keep a conversation going with her about her life in between stabbing, shooting, and beating people up. It had done the trick and kept her from completely freaking out as they worked their way to the control room. For some reason she couldn't bring herself to speak of him to Bernie. Or anyone for that matter. The IAA agent had warned her to keep things to herself till the investigation was completed.

"Darko would. He swore on his life once before to me. I guess he decided to fulfill at least one promise in his life." He rubbed back and forth over the bullet scar with his finger and lowered the pistol to the top of the crumbled sheets. He still felt a blinding rage toward the man, but it was lessening as more information kept coming to light. He would never be able to forgive him for getting all of their friends killed, but maybe he could come to terms with the fact that he had saved Kate's life- when he had been unable to.

"Wait. The man who- The man who… tried to, tried to…" She had lost the ability to form coherent words or thoughts with the name Niko had spoken. She recalled how upset and distraught Bernie was over the person named Darko. How Niko was ashamed slightly for letting him go when they confronted one another. Another rather daunting thought crossed her mind. 'If Niko had killed him before all this… then perhaps I would not be sitting here.'

The kindness, softness, and concern for her flashed across her memory. There was no way that this was the same person Niko and Bernie spoke of at dinner. The man who had violently killed the one attacking her couldn't possibly be capable of coming to her rescue if he was the one who hated Niko and Bernie. He would surely know who she was to Niko. It wasn't adding up to her.

She let her confusion show as she grabbed Niko's hand. The light touch to her collarbone was distracting her from trying to put two and two together. "Darko- He is the one who betrayed you and Bernie?" She would start to piece it all together and hopefully be able to get the full picture. There had to be some kind of redemption in the man who had turned his back on his friends.

"Yes. He sold us out to the enemy forces for a thousand dollars to get his hands on some drugs." Niko watched the emotions and thoughts flick across her features rapidly- disbelief, anger, horror, a ghost of a smile, back to a rather pained look. He didn't like the thought of them two being alone, with only Darko there as her defense against the Albanians, Russians, and Natalya. But he had been powerless and had no other card to play. A sickening thought crossed his mind as he tried to piece the words she had said to what his imagination was producing. "Did he touch you or harm you in any way?" His voice dropped and his accent thickened as his anger renewed toward Darko. 'I'll find him and take my time tearing him to pieces…'

"Niko. It's… There is no way that was the same person." She pinched the bridge of her nose and tried to recall every single moment she had been in his presence. How could someone go from such hatred, selling his unit out, to keeping her alive? 'He had been so gentle toward me. What happened?!'

"Did. He. Touch. You?" He didn't raise his voice, but he needed her answer. His heartrate monitor beeped loudly at the increase in blood pressure and heartrate.

"Not in a way that would cause harm or was intended to be wrong." She winced at her words knowing it didn't give him the answer he was seeking. Her attacking him and him subduing her came to the forefront of her mind and she stiffened at the memories.

"Kate. I'm not mad at you. He has no right to touch you. He knows how I feel. He knew before he went off toward the yacht." He was going to kill him. There was no way he was going to let him go free with how Kate was reacting next to him. There were rules they had. All of the people he grew up with knew better than to flirt or hit on some other dude's girl. They just didn't do it. And with how Darko seemed to understand how high up Kate was on his list of people in his life, he should have respected it.

"It's not what you think. I attacked him when I came to at the warehouse. He. Um. Well." She gulped at the murderous look Niko was starting to sport, "I was stupid for trying to kill him." She whispered out the words and felt silly for attempting to tackle him to the mattress and getting the chain around his throat. She had no idea where she would've gone with it. It's not like she could have stomached killing someone. And to choke them out? Shame flooded her over tired system and the tears formed on their own.

"Katie." Niko whispered out and tugged her back down to him. She crumpled down on the hospital bed next to him, immediately tucking her face into his neck and throat. "You did what you thought was needed. You had been kidnapped, knocked unconscious, and were in a strange place. I am so incredibly sorry for letting any of it happen." The thought of her trying to kill Darko was part amusing and part terrifying. He knew how skilled Darko was, had fought him rather extensively in the halls of the warehouse, and sided with him to fight Natalya. Kate stood no chance of taking him out. His arms tightened around her.

"Francis- I woke up in the basement of the church to Francis trying to push my shoulder back into place. We were going to try to find a way out of there when two men barged into the room. They shot him and released some kind of gas into the room. I remember going for the gun Frankie dropped before passing out. Next thing I know I'm chained to a wall in some kind of office laying on an old, dirty mattress." The floodgates were open now. She had spared her brothers from talking about what happened. The only person who knew any details was the man high up in the IAA. And he had been rather forceful in getting her to talk about it. Saying she needed to start processing it all.

"He was sitting there in the room wearing a motorcycle helmet. He offered me water. After Packie getting poisoned I was not about to take something from those holding me captive. But he drank some of it and threw it in my direction. I was distracted drinking the water when he got close to me. I think he noticed the bruise on my cheek because he touched it. I freaked. Probably not the smartest thing I've ever done. But I shoved him away and pushed him down on the mattress and worked to get the chain around his neck that held me to the wall."

Niko stilled his hands that had started to rub soothing patterns along her arm and back. He couldn't believe she had gone on the offensive. He had a small bit of pride swell up in his chest at her strength to try and attack someone. But he also felt a chill descend his spine. He could already picture how he would've gotten out of the attack. Grab the wrist or arm that held the chain, either break it or twist it to get them into a lock, roll over to pin the person, and then pick the point of weakness- throat, chest, soft tissue of the stomach. He sometimes hated the way his mind worked, but it had kept him alive for this long, and maybe he could show her some simple self-defense moves.

"You don't have to tell me if you don't want to. I image he didn't take to well to being attacked." He could only hope Darko had been gentle and not vicious.

"He was- I don't know. He flipped us over and pinned me to the mattress. I froze. I was stuck back in my bedroom, wishing for you to break down my door. He was on me in the same way the other man was." Her voice shook with her words and she sniffed slightly against the tears that slowly tumbled from her eyes. She fisted her hands into the hospital gown on Niko and sucked in a deep breath. She was safe and back in Niko's arms. No one would get her there.

"I'll kill him." He knew exactly what she was talking about. He hadn't been able to scrub the sight of her pinned to her bed with the man on top of her from his mind. It haunted him and kept him from letting go of some of his anger. It was a constant reminder of how he had failed and been careless with who he was seen with out in public. She had paid the price for being with him.

"Niko. He. I think he knew? Because he got off of me rather quickly." She couldn't bring herself to tell him how Darko and held her hands or dropped his helmet to her forehead. It was too intimate and something she knew Niko wouldn't handle very well. She would bury it deep down and not let it out to anyone. Call it irrational, but she feared how he would react to her if he knew she had held his hands back. How she had let her mind slip and believe it was Niko for a second that was with her. How her mind tried to take her to a happier place.

"It's not right." He felt the tightening of his muscles and the burn that coursed through his veins. But he needed to calm down and get past it for now. This clearly happened before he had a chance to confront Darko in the hallway.

"No. But he never once hit me. He didn't try to attack me back. He left me there in the room. Roman was brought in sometime later." She shifted against him to get more comfortable, slipping her arm to rest over his stomach to pick at the scratchy blanket that covered him.

"Roman didn't look too good. They did a number on him." Niko leaned his cheek on the top of her head. He was piecing the timeline together in his mind, he must have just left the hospital or was at his safehouse in Northwood around this time. He berated himself for letting himself get injured and knocked unconscious during the fight in the graveyard. Which brought up his memories of Karen, Francis, Bernie, and Jacob, and everything that took place before getting outside the church. So many people had been shot, hurt, attacked. All because of him.

"I don't think Darko hit him. Rebecca, well Natalya, did for sure. She was rather violent for someone so small. I made the mistake of talking down to her. I don't think the scar will fade on my face." She absently rubbed along her cheek where the scar rested. She couldn't feel it, but knew where it was, the fantom pain came and went when she would think about the backhand.

"I'm sorry." He didn't really know what else to say to make it right. Kate had suffered too much, and he swore to himself that he would make sure she would never have to feel pain again.

"It's not your fault. I didn't know she was running the whole show. I did however put her in her place." She let out a shallow chuckle as her words bounced around in her head.

"I can only imagine how angry it made her." He scooted over to give her more room and to pull his arm out from between them so he could wrap it around her shoulders. He would be patient and listen to whatever she wanted to get off her chest. They had three weeks of catching up to do, and he wanted to let her know his side of things too. How he had fought so hard to find her. How he had left the hospital on his own to come to her rescue. How he didn't give up or stop trying. He needed her to know that he was always going to find her and come to her aid.

"You could say that again. But Darko was there to keep her from doing anything worse. He got her out of the room. I don't know what was said. They were speaking some other language. But he helped me clean my wound. That's when I first noticed the tattoo. I didn't get a good look at it, otherwise it might have blown his cover sooner." Kate turned to her side and ran her fingers over the tattoo on Niko's arm.

"It's how he let me know who he was before we killed the other man holding Roman hostage." It had been a shock to see it after all these years. He glanced down to where Kate stroked over his matching tattoo. It had been on a whim that they had all decided to mark each other that fateful evening in the middle of nowhere back home. Drunk, celebrating their small victory, and someone yelled out that it required a permanent moniker.

"Things got kind of hectic after that. I think you must have shown up because a bunch of people rushed into the room and started trying to get us into different handcuffs. Roman and I put up a decent struggle before someone fired off a shot. Everything went dark for me after it rang out." She had reached the point where things got difficult to think about. She hadn't been able to process all the blood, dead bodies, and violent nature that Darko had displayed as they fought their way to the command room. She didn't want to keep comparing him to Niko and vice versa. She knew Niko was skilled and could dispatch people like it was nothing- had seen it at Derrick's funeral. But to be close and have a front row seat was hard to stomach.

A knock came at the door before it swung open. Packie poked his head around the wall and smiled broadly at seeing his sister and friend all cuddled up on the bed, "Well heelllllooooo there! Was just checking in on my lovely sister, and what to my surprise do I see? She's back on the bed! At least this time you're awake man." He let out a chuckle and walked into the room, happy to see his friend awake, even if it looked like his sister had been crying.

"Patrick shut up!" Kate shrieked out, now full embarrassed that he had let it slip that she had spent a few nights curled up on the bed next to Niko. She made to move off the bed when Niko firmed his grip on her and pulled her back down next to him. She leaned up just enough to be able to see what the problem was.

"Packie, have you met my girlfriend?" Niko smirked at the way Packie slightly shifted awkwardly on his feet and scratched the back of his head trying to avoid looking at the two on the bed. "She is where she wants to be, where I want her to be."

"Awww!" Kate felt the smile spread on her face and she kissed his cheek with the way his words made her feel, "But maybe I should go check on Bernie? He should be in physical therapy now. And sometimes he skips if he isn't forced into the room." She placed another kiss to his cheek and watched as his eyes shifted to her. She could somewhat see the hidden plea to not leave his side, but he buried it well.

"Bernie would skip out. He hated working out and doing drills." Niko muttered quietly. He didn't want her to leave just yet, but with the way Packie was acting, maybe there was something that needed to be said between them. He leaned forward and kissed her lips trying to let her know to hurry. He wasn't sure what Packie wanted to talk about, but he prayed it wasn't one subject in particular.

Kate kissed him back and added pressure to his lips letting him know she would be quick. She really didn't want to leave, but Packie had told her he needed some time with him when he woke, whenever that would be. She figured Gerry would want to be the one to have this talk. But with him still being underground and in hiding, it would fall on Packie to be the big brother this time around. She leaned back from Niko and ran her fingers along his scruff, "Maybe I can find a razor on my way back?"

"Thanks. Do not want Bernie shaving my face and cutting my hair when I'm asleep." Both Kate and Packie started laughing at his words. He smiled seeing the lightness come back to Kate's features. She was okay, alive, and there with him. They would have time to catch up later where things would be more private, and he would have his full strength back.

"I don't think you'd like what he would want to do." Kate let out a couple more giggles before getting up off the bed and out of Niko's arms. She felt so cold the second she was away from his warmth and she shuddered at the chill that seeped into her skin. She picked up his jacket from the folded blankets and pillow and shoved her arms into the sleeves. It was one of the few things she had grabbed from his place when Roman took her back to the apartment to get some things. She was adamant about not leaving the hospital till Niko did. And she had slept wearing his jacket, needing the comfort it provided her.

"Probably not. I'd end up blonde." Niko teased. He watched as she zipped up his old jacket and let a soft smile tug at his lips. He liked seeing her in his jacket again, even if the memories weren't of happier times. She had brought it to the hospital, and he didn't mind at all. She turned to stick her tongue out at him for his remarks before walking over to her brother.

"Go easy on him. He's only been awake for a little while." She placed her hand on her brother's shoulder and sent him a stern glare. She didn't want him bombarding Niko with a million questions and stressing him out. He was still recovering from his own injuries and didn't need anything to add to it.

"What do I look like to you?!" Packie jokingly flinched away from her hand, trying to play up his disgust at being touched by his sister. If anything, they were now closer to one another than they ever had been, and he was happy for it. He wanted to thank Niko for somehow being part of his family coming back together and getting closer.

"The second in command to the Irish mob." Kate deadpanned, removing her hand from his shoulder. She knew he was joking and trying to show off in front of Niko, but it still hurt slightly that he brushed her off. She winked at Niko before heading toward the door to go make sure Bernie was participating in physical therapy.

"Second in com- hey!" Packie did a double take and grabbed her arm as she tried to walk away toward the door. He spun her around and gave her a big bear hug.

She melted into the hug and sighed at the contact. They may not be Gerry's bear hugs, but Packie's were just as good. They were firm, strong, and had a slight desperation to them, as if he hadn't been hugged enough in his life. She returned the hug before pulling away, giving him a gentle smile. They were working on their relationship and she was thankful to have brothers for support. She flicked his nose before walking out the door, pulling it closed behind her.

"I tell you what, she wouldn't have gotten away with that a month ago!" Packie huffed before turning his attention to his friend, "Listen, I don't really want to go over this again later, but we need to talk."

"I figured that's why you are here?" Niko picked up the bed remote and pressed the button to tilt the bed upright. He didn't like the low angle he was laying at, and it would be more comfortable for both of them if he were more upright.

"Well. To check up on you too of course. Gave us all a good scare back on the island. Kate's been spending most of her time in this room watching over you. I had to force her to at least walk the halls to get a break." Packie walked over to the doctors stool and plopped down on it, swinging himself back and forth slightly to give him a distraction from the heavy topic he was about to bring up. He tightly crossed his arms over his chest in a protective manner.

"She didn't need to. I clearly was out of it." Niko studied how uneasy Packie looked. Something was bothering the man more than normal, but he couldn't place his finger on it.

"You- We all thought you died man. The Navy medical team wasn't too far behind us that night and followed us toward the shooting we could hear. They managed to get you stable, but when you didn't wake up after surgery, we all got worried. I don't know anything about medicine and what not, but they said you were severely hurt and would be lucky to make a full recovery. Kate was out for a day but the only thing she wanted to know when she came to was where you were." Packie trained his eyes on the numerous vases of flowers that lined the shelves, counter spaces, windowsills, and even along the floor in front of the dresser cabinet that held a speaker that was softly playing music.

"I was dead?" Niko didn't think that was right. He could conjure flashes of voices and faces as they left the island. But for the most part he just remembered falling asleep and letting his body rest. He was drained of everything he had after shooting Natalya. Maybe he shouldn't have let go so rapidly…

"No. If you were, it wasn't for long. Roman got to you first and he went on a full panic episode. I couldn't find a pulse when we rolled you to your back. Medical team was on you right after." He let out a long sigh and tightened his hold of his arms, "And to think we had gone through all that trouble just to lose you." It was his worst fear. They had all been on so many random jobs- child's play compared to what took place on that fateful night. He didn't like to admit he was scared, but he was terrified as he drove the boat after the yacht.

"Packie. I'm alright. At the time I thought Kate had been killed. I guess I just gave up for a moment and just wanted to be done with it all." Niko wasn't sure what else to offer up as comfort. He could bleakly remember how horrible he felt, how much pain he was in, and he just headed straight for the darkness to get a break from everything. He hadn't been pushed that hard, to the breaking point, since the ambush.

"Yeah, about Kate. Found her shot in a burning clearing not too far from where Natalya was killed. Did she shoot her in front of you or something? Then you took off? I don't know why you'd just leave her there." Packie this time did muster the courage to look at his friend for the answer.

"Natalya managed to shoot me twice in the chest," Niko rubbed at where he could feel some soreness on his chest, "And when I looked up from my place on the ground, she shot Kate. Once to the chest, and Kate went limp. I thought she had died, and, in my rage, I went after Natalya to kill her for what she had done." Niko narrowed his eyes slightly. So far there hadn't been mention of another body in that clearing. He knew Darko had been shot several times after Kate. Had collapsed down to the grass in front of her. "I chased her through the trees, only to find her surrounded by everyone else."

"Fucking bitch. Now I wish I had shot her too." Packie let out a frustrated sounding grunt and kicked at the floor with one of his shoes.

"I wish I could have skinned her alive and listened to her screams as they weakened with her bleeding to death." Niko felt the familiar hatred return to him with how much pain and suffering had come down on all of them because of her.

"And I wish I could have locked her in a room with the three of us and Gerry."

Packie and Niko turned abruptly to the now open door to see who had interrupted them. Francis walked in slowly, still not sure of his place with everyone, and leaned into the wall. He was in his typical suit outfit, badge and gun on his hip, hair neatly combed over, and a strained frown creasing his forehead. He looked thinner than normal and didn't carry himself as proudly as he once did. It was as if the world had shoved its full weight against his shoulders and left a long-lasting slump to him.

"Francis?" Niko gave him a once over, not liking the fragile state he was in.

"Yeah it's me. Been a rough road to recovery." He gestured to the couch on the other side of Niko's bed, "May I?"

"I don't have a problem. Packie?" Niko glanced toward Packie to see if he wanted more time to talk or if Francis was allowed to overhear the conversation.

"Come on in Frankie. Have a seat. I was about to give the big brother speech!" Packie exaggerated his words and nodded to his oldest brother. They had worked some of their differences out. Gerry was still rather standoffish and didn't trust Francis completely. Derrick's killer was still out there somewhere, and Gerry blamed Francis for not having them locked away yet. Packie continued to shove their last conversation to the side. He was not ready to confront Niko yet about Derrick's untimely death. Not with how everything had gone to shit shortly after Francis had bolted from his hospital room to go check on Kate.

"Ah. Then I have excellent timing." Francis let a smirk grace his lips as he made slow progress toward the couch. He eased down next to the neatly folded blankets and pillow. "Good to see you awake Niko. I ran into Kate on her way to the physical therapy gym and she was beyond giddy. I pretty much assumed you were awake without her needing to tell me." He shrugged slightly and winced at the pain he was still in.

"It's good to see you alive. It didn't look good." Niko was going to have to start thanking whatever deity was watching over him. So far everyone he thought dead, was alive and well. Or mostly well. Francis still looked worse for wear. But so far it seemed like everyone had managed to survive the onslaught brought down on the city.

"No. I was in bad shape. But I pulled through thankfully. Someone was watching out for me. The doctors told me if I hadn't had the field wound care, I would have bled out long before I made it to the hospital. The clean up effort in Suffolk, the rounding up of the last of Natalya's men, and the repercussions of the attack have me fairly stressed out. The city is still rather panicky. Can't blame them." Francis rubbed his hands along the tops of his thighs to remove some of the sweat that had accumulated on them.

"No." Niko let them three of them fall into silence. He could almost tell something else was bothering the two men in his room and he sent them both his own questioning stare, "Something tells me that this isn't going to be a pleasant conversation."

"The city is rather divided. So is the local government. Some want you sent back home since you aren't a citizen. Others hail you a hero for taking out the terrorist group. That's the story anyway. I've been doing what I can to keep the media off of the hospital. But Deputy Mayor Dawkins wants to give you the key to the city in some fancy ceremony. Mayor Ochoa however is completely against the idea. So is my boss." Francis looked to his brother to see how much had already been said and discussed. He watched as Packie only shook his head negatively.

"What's new? I haven't exactly been given the red carpet treatment since stepping foot in Liberty." Niko scoffed. So what was new? He was a wanted criminal for the most part, ran jobs for just about every powerhouse in the city, and had just executed the major player that was giving everyone grief.

"I'm planning on running for Police Commissioner. I think if I can get into office, I can sway people's thoughts on the matter. Ochoa is up for reelection and with the way the citizens are feeling, he will probably lose." Francis had been trying to run for that office since his mother planted the idea in his head. She was always so proud of his accomplishments, even if they were won by shady dealings and corruption.

"You got my vote. If I was legal." Niko's sarcasm was getting better as Packie let out a bark of surprised laughter.

"Francis we gotta get your image better before you'd win that campaign." Packie tried to control his laughter and get back on topic, "But what he's trying to get at Niko, is if you're going to be with our sister, can we keep the level of excitement to a minimum? As in no more car chases, shootouts, drug deals, murders, and kidnappings?"

"Oh so don't have a typical day with the Irish mob?" Francis muttered and crossed his arms.

"Frankie!" Packie gasped with mock affront, placing the back of his hand to his forehead as if he were in shock.

"Trust me. I am looking forward to doing nothing for a very long time. Roman spoke to me a while back about being a cab driver for his company. I could make honest money." Niko dropped his head back into his pillow. His headache was growing steadily, and he couldn't believe he was about to have the 'talk' with Kate's brothers about how to treat her right and what they were expecting out of him.

"That's the spirit. Lay low like Gerry. Take care of our sis and treat her right. I've seen too many tears from her to last me a lifetime." Packie brightened with his friend's words.

"And Niko. I am sorry for how I reacted to your relationship with her. If it means anything, I am glad she has you to watch out for her. The enemy list is resting at zero. Please keep it that way." Francis had to force out his apology to Niko. He didn't want to forgive and forget, but they were going to be seeing each other a lot more, and he would try for his sister's sake. He had been working closely with the IAA and FIB to keep them off of Niko's scent. And he had been informed that everyone who wanted Niko dead was down to no one. It made it slightly easier to let Niko see to his sister's care.

"I'm not looking for trouble. What I am looking for is time with Kate. I have a lot to make up for." Niko shifted his eyes between the two brothers hoping that was as far as this conversation was going to go. He did not need to hear them tell him to stay out of her pants or anything bordering on that topic. What they did in their alone time was their business.

"Then I think it's settled. You treat her right, and I won't have a need to send the police force after you." Francis knew he never would. Niko would flip on him so quick and his whole life would be over in a blink of an eye. 'Empty threats will get me nowhere fast.'

"You keep her happy and I'll keep Gerry away from you." Packie teased. He was getting excited at the idea of his sister being happy with his friend, and that his family was accepting of it finally. It had been a long drawn out fight with Francis, Gerry, Kate, and himself about the relationship and what was deemed safe and not okay. Gerry had been on the fence till Packie had convinced him that what had taken place was not all Niko's fault. How were any of them supposed to know that Dimitri had a psycho cousin hell bent on revenge?

"And when the time comes, IF the time comes, you have my permission. For now! Things can change!" Francis spoke softly. With their Pa being long gone, he had somewhat taken the role over for Kate. He would check in when he could. He watched over her like the rest of them did. And being the oldest, he had hoped that one day, whenever that day would come, he would get to walk her down the aisle on her wedding day. 'If she would let me…'

"Aw! Getting soft on me are ya?!" Packie joked toward his older brother. He had been thinking the same thing since Kate's first date with Niko. And after Niko's confession to him down at the docks in Alderney, he was more than happy to gain a brother in law. So long as Kate kept the smile on her face, he would be fine with Niko being part of the family. And he would have one more older brother to harass.

"Thank you." Niko was once again left speechless. He had never thought he would be considered good enough to be someone's husband, let alone Kate's. That had been as far from his mind as he could get it. Till he killed Dimitri and went to Kate's rescue. She had thrown open every door and possibility to him, and he had never seen some of the paths laid before him. It was new territory. A direction his life was not meant to go down. He still wasn't sure this wasn't some kind of bizarre dream where he got to live out his fantasies. It was overwhelming and at the same time exciting. But there was this small kernel of doubt that twisted tightly in his stomach.

"No problem man. It'll be cool." Packie nodded a few times as he could see the next few years playing out before him. Good times were on the horizon and he couldn't wait to see it all unfold. Maybe they could finally throw a house party, and do it properly, without worrying what time Ma would be back from bridge or having Francis crash it.

"I agree for once with Patrick. I'll be good to have everyone at peace and happy. I think we could all use some down time. The holiday's are coming up. We just missed Halloween, but Thanksgiving and Christmas are right around the corner. Should be the first holiday season where we aren't all trying to kill each other." Francis let a genuine smile cross his face. He hadn't had a traditional, sane, and calm holiday with his family- ever. He couldn't place once single get together that hadn't descended into a full blown death match. If it wasn't with Pa, it was between the brothers.

"Thanks-giving?" Niko had no idea what he was talking about. Roman had never mentioned this holiday in his emails. The typical ones of New Years, Halloween, Christmas, and their own holidays of Armistice Day and Statehood Day. But Thanksgiving was a new one to him.

"Yes cousin! It is quite literally the best American holiday they have! Lots of amazing food, as much as you can eat, and they have a parade here in the city. Mallorie introduced it to me within my first year of being here." Roman walked into the room and sat down at the foot of Niko's bed. He and Mallorie had seen Kate with Bernie outside of the gym as they came by to check on his cousin, and one look at her let him know he had woken up. He didn't mess with the elevator and took the stairs excited at getting to see his cousin alive. Mallorie would wait for the elevator with Kate.

"It is definitely one of those things you got to experience here. There is football, not soccer football, but our football games, good food, booze, and most of everyone is off of work!" Packie fist bumped with Roman as he sat down on Niko's bed. They had developed a rather weird friendship since spending so much time at the hospital. He liked Roman's sense of humor and rather wild way of exaggerating stories. He always had a good laugh when Roman was around- either at his expense or someone else's.

"It's also meant to have a deeper meaning than all that." Francis rolled his eyes and stared at the ceiling as if asking for patience. He was clearly the oldest out of them all, by age and by maturity level.

"What is all the commotion going on in here?" Mallorie walked into the room, hand firmly placed over her belly, Kate linked together with her other arm. Her eyes landed on Niko and she burst into tears. "Oh my God Niko!" Kate let her arm go as she hurried around the side of the bed by Francis and nearly jumped on Niko, pulling him into a tight hug. She planted kiss after kiss to his cheeks and forehead. "I can not thank you enough for saving my Roman and Kate!"

Niko did his best to slow Mallorie's movements so he could return the hug properly, "It's good to see you too Mal. How is the little one?" He had seen the hand on her abdomen and figured things hadn't gone for the worst.

"Blood clot rupture. Baby is perfectly fine and healthy. The other baby not so much." She kissed his cheek one last time and smirked over her shoulder at her husband.

"I am just fine. Thank yooouuu very much!" Roman huffed, crossing his arms, but didn't stop the joy from blooming across his face. He was going to be a father. He had sat in complete awe as the nurse worked the sonogram machine to show the tiny little blip that was a life growing inside his wife. He had never known what his life was truly missing till he was told he was going to be a dad. Mallorie had simply glowed ever since. Their relationship had hit new heights that day and he couldn't wait to tell his cousin. 'Wait… how does he know already?!'

Francis scooted the pillow and blankets over to the edge of the couch and moved down to give her a place to sit down. He had gotten to know Niko's cousin and wife over the last three weeks and had grown rather fond of the fire Mallorie carried. She would make a fierce mother and it reminded him of when his mother was younger and full of life and energy. He patted the space next to him and smiled when she gladly took the offered seat.

"Yes, yes, my dear sweet hubby. You should have seen the look on his face Niko. It was priceless!" She leaned into the shoulder of Kate's brother and accepted the side hug from him.

Kate moved to lean against the foot of the hospital bed and fought the smile that wanted to break free. She had been somewhat present to the conversation. Mallorie had been in her hospital room waiting on her to come to when Roman had joined her. They had been talking in hushed voices when all of a sudden Roman screamed out. It was what jolted Kate into consciousness. It took a couple of minutes to get reoriented before she knew what was going on. Roman fainted soon after he was told for the eighth time. Once she was coherent enough, she had busted out laughing so hard that she tore a stich or two free from her bullet wound.

"His scream was rather impressive." Kate smiled and nudged Roman's shoulder with her fist. She was getting to know Roman rather well and enjoyed his lightheartedness and joy he found in life. He was always so optimistic and the life of the party. He had really been the one to keep her grounded through the past three weeks. He spoke of his cousin at length and told the most interesting stories of their shared childhood. And if it wasn't Roman who was dishing on Niko, it was Bernie.

"You can say that again! I thought it was you!" Packie laughed with the others about that second day. He had heard a high pitched scream coming from his sister's ICU room and he took off, along with Little Jacob, Badman, and Gerry to see what was wrong. They kicked open the door with guns drawn ready to kill whoever dared to harm Kate, only to see Mallorie short of breath from laughing too much, Kate looking around bewildered, and Roman passed out on the cold floor.

"You be told your going to be a dad after surviving the seven circles of hell and tell me how you handle it!" Roman scoffed and lightened up at Packie's continued cackling. He could live with the ribbing for now, so long as it didn't cross any lines.

"It's nine Roman. Nine circles of hell." Kate offered as she wiped a couple of tears from her eyes from the laughter that still shook her shoulders. It would be one of those moments that she would hold on to for the rest of her life.

"Oh so I see you went through a couple more than I have!" Roman twisted his head around to stare at her accusingly before the room went up in a new round of laughter.

"I see this is where the party is. I thought I was going to have to jump out a window to get out of physical therapy!" Bernie sighed loudly and plopped back down into the recliner. He was tired, but the energy in the room was intoxicating and was doing wonders to lift his spirits. Everyone was either seated or spaced out around Niko's bed laughing or smiling uncontrollably at something that had been said. "What ridiculous thing has Roman said this time? Do tell!"

"Hey! Why's it always me?!" Roman's voice rose an octave and he nearly fell off the bed when he tried to whip around to point a finger at Bernie.

"Roman it cha always ya, seen?" Little Jacob closed the door behind him and leaned into the wall by Packie, giving Niko a nod. He had heard a rather ruckus roar of laughter from the elevators and he took off to make sure everything was okay. He could see now that Niko was awake and doing well by the looks of it. Bernie let out a surprised yelp at the way Roman kept snapping his attention between people that were piling on him.

Niko let the smile break through at seeing most of his friends gathered around him. He was safe, his friends and growing family was safe, and everyone was joking around and laughing. It was how he wanted to picture his cousin's life in America when he boarded the ship to Liberty. He imagined an easier life- one filled with happiness, love, compassion, and acceptance. Instead, he had found what he had run from. But if he was being honest with himself- he had jumped on the bandwagon and missed the chance at making a clean break.

His eyes landed on Kate and she sent him a warm smile, mouthing the words he longed to hear from her again and again. And ones he wanted to return to her every day that life still coursed through his veins. He gave her a quick wink letting her know they would talk later at length, but for now he was content to enjoy the company around him. Their voices were slightly faded to him as he glanced around as Packie yelled out something that caused Mallorie to bend over in a fit of giggles, Francis patting her back softly. Kate leaned into Roman's shoulder and kept her eyes trained on him, shaking her head at whatever had been said.

Here, laying in the small hospital room, surrounded by smiling people who cared for him as much as he cared for them, he was seeing the start of his slice of the American dream.

aaaaaa

The doorbell rang out through the home and Niko volunteered to go answer it. Kate was busy in the kitchen with Mallorie and Little Jacob's girlfriend, chatting away and laughing at their inside jokes. They were all working on different dishes for this holiday called Thanksgiving. Something that had been explained to him several different times, in many different ways. It confused him slightly how some people just saw it as an excuse to get together and eat copious amounts of food, before having a full out shopping extravaganza the next morning, while others held it in much higher regard. He blamed it on the American idealism that ran rampant.

Kate had explained to him the history behind the holiday, and why the meaning and significance had diminished over the years. Her family tried every year to celebrate it, but it always turned into a fist fight before the dinner rolls hit the table. This year would be different, and she had told him she had so many things to be thankful and grateful for. And he could agree with her thinking on that front. Their Thanksgiving would hold its own meaning and truth, and hopefully become a new tradition they could uphold year after year.

The makeshift family had all agreed to have the meal at Roman's home, and all made plans to get there early to start cooking, baking, and much to Mallorie's chagrin, drinking. The house smelled amazing and he had to fight off his hunger that kept reminding him that he had skipped breakfast. Apparently, one was to starve before the meal was ready. He had snuck a couple of the deviled eggs from the fridge when no one was looking to try and tie him over. Roman had told him a liquid diet would be better and had promptly started making Irish coffee for everyone present, claiming they had more Irishmen in the house than any other nationality. Packie hadn't complained one bit.

"If it's Brucie and he forgot to bring the whiskey, send his ass back home! It was the only thing he could bring that would be useful!" Roman called out from his place on the couch next to Packie. They bumped their coffee mugs at the idea of having something else to toast with after the meal.

"He could have brought a bag of ice too Roman!" Mallorie yelled over the noise of the fan in the kitchen. She chopped a little harder at the onion with her knife and sent a glare in her husband's direction.

"Will do Roman." Niko shouted over his shoulder as he approached the front door. He adjusted the collar of his sweater slightly before reaching for the pistol that was tucked into the waistband of his pants. While he wasn't expecting anyone to show up that wasn't invited, he still couldn't shake the feeling of not being free. He peered through the peep hole and couldn't see anyone standing on the porch. He leaned back from the door and saw Bernie move into the front hall from the dining room, folded cloth napkins concealing his pistol. They met each other's eyes and nodded only once. Bernie soundless tossed the napkins to the dining table and moved toward the backdoor to be able to go around to the front. He smiled and waved toward the females that were busy cooking in the kitchen as he exited the door, keeping the gun out of sight.

"Come on. Not today." Niko whispered to himself before unlocking the door and edging it open a sliver, pistol drawn and at the ready. He glanced both directions before pulling it open all the way. The morning air was chilly, and it felt worse along the coast, as it blasted into the warmth of the house. The leaves had almost all completely fallen off the trees in the yard, covering it in a collage of reds, oranges, yellows, and browns. Winter was fast approaching, and he could almost smell the snow in the air. He strained his ears to pick up any sounds beyond the occasional car passing by on the main street of the neighborhood.

Niko lifted his pistol and turned toward his left to check the driveway. His eyes landed on Bernard who was casually leaning against the wood paneling of the home, arms lightly crossed over his chest, a briefcase hung from one of his hands. He turned his head his direction and let a small smile lift the edge of his mouth, "Happy Thanksgiving!"

"You should know better than to pull something like that." Niko let out a sigh and moved out onto the front porch. He pulled the door closed behind him and tucked the pistol back into its normal resting place. He didn't want anyone inside getting concerned and coming out to see what the problem was. He hadn't spoken to him since getting out of the hospital. Of course, he hadn't really tried to reach out to him. Kate had kept him rather preoccupied.

"Eh. Someone has to keep you on your toes." Bernard shrugged and motioned toward the side yard so they could maybe speak privately. There were things that needed to be said, and he didn't want someone listening in from the other side of the front door.

"Hi Karen. You can stop aiming your gun at me now." Niko spoke before glancing to his right to see her somewhat holding her pistol in his direction, eyes wide at having been caught.

"How the hell-"

"You tend to follow wherever he goes." Niko flicked his thumb in Bernard's direction, only lifted one of his shoulders in a half shrug and took the couple of wooden steps down from the porch. He had been meaning to check in with her, but when he had been able to walk the halls of the hospital, he was told she had been discharged weeks ago. It was a small relief to see her standing and moving around after taking a sniper round meant for him.

"You can call off Bernie too." Bernard spoke as he followed Niko down into the front yard.

"I was beyond quiet and in stealth mode! There is no way you knew where I was!" Bernie huffed stamping a foot into the leaf covered lawn, as he emerged from behind the tall bushes along the side of the porch Karen was standing on. He had been quick in his approach and gotten into position when Niko opened the front door. He recognized Karen immediately and felt a snicker want to break free from his smirk.

"Oh my God!" Karen jumped horribly and spun on her heel, hand over her heart, to glare at Bernie. She had not been prepared for someone else to come up behind her.

"At least I got someone!" Bernie smiled and waved to Karen, tucking his pistol away from sight. He walked around the raised front porch and shook Bernard's hand when he got within reach. They had spoken periodically during the weeks at the hospital and he had come to admire the man who worked for the mysterious IAA.

"I can see if a special someone wants to come out and chat?" Bernie asked quietly to Karen as she moved down the steps to give him a side hug. He figured she was only around to see Gerry, and not just on security detail for her boss. She was still healing from her own injuries, like the rest of them, and hadn't had the opportunity to see Gerry since.

"If you don't mind? And only if he wants to. No pressure." She blushed lightly at Bernie's offer, patting his shoulder. "I'll be over by the fence to the driveway. He can stay in cover that way from passing cars."

"Sure. Give me a minute." Bernie headed back inside through the front door, closing it quickly to keep the cold from getting in.

"What is it that you drove all the way down to Beachgate to see me?" Niko slowly walked toward the large tree next to Roman's house and leaned into it, watching the ocean waves. He had felt his trepidation build when he hadn't seen anyone on the front porch and was working on shoving it to the side. No one had tried to kill any of them since he left the hospital, and he was getting weary of the lull in action. He wasn't sure what to do with himself now that everyone who hated him was dead. It was as if he missed the thrill of the chase and avoiding death threats.

"For starters, I have a present." Bernard joined him at his side and pulled a blue passport from his inside jacket pocket. "Pulled a few strings, broke a couple promises, and forged a good number of partnerships in order to get you this. But I think it will be worth it in the end." He held it out for Niko to take.

"Whose is it?" Niko shifted his eyes between Bernard's face and the held out passport before taking it from his hand. He flipped it open and had to do a double take. His face stared up at him from the matte finished pages. His name, full name, date of birth, Middle Park apartment address, and all his correct info was neatly typed out in bold black ink. He looked up from the passport to stare at Bernard dumbfounded.

"Some bloke named Niko Bellic dropped it on the docks down in East Hook eight months ago. I am simply returning it to its rightful owner. I also happen to have his driver's license too if you can point me in the right direction." Bernard snorted and pulled out a driver's license from his coat pocket and held it out for him to take. He smiled softly and lowered his voice to a more sincere one, "Welcome to America Niko."

"Thank you." Niko took the offered plastic card and checked over the info and couldn't believe what he was seeing. "What all do I owe you for this?" He knew nothing was ever offered freely and he felt the pit in his stomach turn cold. He had been avoiding crime actively since Kate moved into his apartment full time. He had upheld his promise to her and was making money the honest way- even if he could live off the money he had accumulated over his past jobs. But it gave him something to do to pass the time.

"Haven't decided yet. My bosses have requested I return to Los Santos. Apparently, some idiot in the FIB has been leaking secrets about one of our facilities on the west coast. Can't let them run their mouth for too much longer." He watched the waves crash over and over again toward the shore and let out a long breath. He didn't feel right leaving, but duty calls, and he had to keep the country safe.

"Then hopefully I don't hear from you for a very, very long time." Niko tucked the passport and driver's license into his back pocket. He had hoped their time could be parted on mutual ground and not owe anything to the other. But deep down he knew he owed Bernard a lot. He had kept his side of the oath going, and for that he had his share to give Bernard. The oath went both ways. And while Kate and Roman both were alive and their enemies were vanquished, Niko knew better.

"I won't call unless I am in dire need. Maybe you will come to me with good news one day? I do love weddings. Especially ones that don't end up getting blown to bits. Rice throwing is a much nicer ending." Bernard hesitated before lightly clapping his hand on Niko's shoulder. He had grown fond of him and his gang of friends. And he would miss the utter ridiculousness that came with being associated with them. He formed a deep respect and understanding for the younger man he stood next to.

"I will definitely be sending a wedding invite to you." Niko snorted at the absurdness of the situation. He wasn't sure how to properly say goodbye to someone who had blackmailed him, saved him, brought him Darko… "Any word on our missing person's case?"

"None. I will keep you updated as I can. But with the distance, it will be more difficult." Bernard gave Niko's shoulder a squeeze and dropped his hand back to tuck it into his jacket pocket, "Take care of yourself and Kate. I'd say keep in touch, but eh. I'll be seeing you around." He looked over his shoulder to see Karen talking to Gerry along the fence that ran the length of Roman's front yard. They were standing close to each other and he could see the light flirtation that Karen was sporting.

Niko followed his line of sight and shook his head, "She staying?" He didn't want to think about her dating Gerry. It was already awkward having her pop up randomly in his life after she had almost given hers to save him in the graveyard. And if he was going to eventually be Gerry's brother in law, him dating his ex would just be completely awkward. He wrinkled his nose at the thought.

"Negative. She is due back at training for espionage and interrogation. Every day our enemies change. The war effort overseas is only getting worse. I'm afraid our services have to adopt tactics with the changing of the times. The world isn't any safer than it was yesterday. But one bad guy at a time, right?" He extended his hand out for Niko to shake. This is where he would part ways and get back into his line of work. Things really were ramping up back in Los Santos and he couldn't ignore it any longer.

"Don't go turning into Francis on me. It was good working with you. Good luck on keeping the country safe." Niko shook Bernard's hand and locked eyes with the man that had been a good ally through it all. It would be somewhat bittersweet to see him leave.

"I have one more thing for you. And I need you to promise me that you will open it when you are alone." Bernard returned the handshake and held out the briefcase to Niko. It was his one last gift and surprise for him before he put Liberty in his rearview mirror. At least for now.

"It better not be some kind of bomb." Niko took the offered briefcase and judged its weight having no clue what could possibly be in it.

"I thought you'd know me better than that. But no. I prefer you alive to dead. Just promise?" Bernard tucked his hands deeper into his coat pockets and fought the shiver his body wanted to produce against the cold air that hung over them.

"Fine. I promise. I'll call once I open it." Niko let his arms drop to sides and gave Bernard one last skeptical glare. It felt slightly heavy in his hand, but he couldn't tell what was inside of the case.

"Everything okay out here?" Kate took the steps down from the porch and headed in their direction, only to see Niko shift a briefcase behind his body.

"Kate. It's good to see you again, but I'm afraid my time here in Liberty is being cut short. Perhaps we can all meet up for dinner if I get back in town?" Bernard held his hand out for her to shake and was caught off guard when she moved into him and gave him a large hug.

"Thank you for everything. I won't forget it. And I won't forget you." Kate hugged the man that Niko told her helped him get to the island. She may not know his name still, but she trusted him with her life. She smiled when he returned the hug firmly. He had been there for her during the statements she was required to give and acted on her behalf when FIB got a little heated. He had also acted as a great stand in therapist to her.

"It was nothing. Keep an eye on him, will you?" Bernard had to ignore the guilt and yearning to hold his daughter again. The hug had yanked his daughter and wife's smiling face to the forefront of his mind, and he fought the lump that wanted to form in his throat. He hadn't had much in the sentiment department for years and he was touched at how open she was with hugs. It wasn't something he was expecting, but he was grateful for it.

"That is definitely something you don't have to worry about. Wish you could've stayed for Thanksgiving lunch, well dinner. It'll be ready in an hour or two." Kate shifted out of his arms and smiled up at him, hoping to be able to convince him to stay. It would be nice to have a couple more people at the table to celebrate their victory and new beginnings.

"Ah. As tempting as that is, I have a flight to catch. Another time." He shook her hand when she extended it out to him. His scheduled flight time was rapidly approaching, and he made time to make a pitstop at Roman's on their way to the airport.

"Alright. Don't be a stranger." She leaned back into Niko's arms when he approached her, "Go save the country and all." Niko wrapped his arms around her shoulders and dropped the side of his head to hers. Kate lifted her hands to hold on to his forearms, then looked down confusedly at the briefcase that hung before her in Niko's hand.

"Yes ma'am!" Bernard saluted her and walked toward the blacked out SUV that was parked in the driveway, waving to Karen to finish it up. Their time had come to part ways.

"I'll miss them. In my own way of course." Kate whispered as she watched Karen lean up to place a kiss to Gerry's cheek. Gerry tugged her back to him and planted a rather passionate kiss to her, fisting his hands into the short brown hair. He released her and kissed her forehead one last time before Karen moved out of his arms toward the waiting SUV.

"Nah." Niko grunted when she lightly elbowed him in the stomach, "Okay maybe a little. Look what I have now." Niko pulled out the passport and driver's license to show her that he was officially an American now, as well as a Serbian national. He lowered the briefcase to the ground so he could hold on to her better.

"Are these real?" Kate breathed out excitedly, watching as he opened the passport to show off his picture and information. They had discussed his citizenship long into the early morning light one evening after a rather extensive make out session. He had expressed the need to make his own roots and she had told him in order to really make money legally, he would need either a visa or become a citizen. The visa option was off the table as he was still wanted for crimes in his home country.

"As real as I am standing here. Looks like you aren't dating just Europe anymore." He smiled at her laugh. They used to call each other countries and regions on the phone when they first started to hang out. It had thrown him off the first time she had called saying she was America and Ireland. It was just another quirk he loved about her.

"Mm. But I like the sophisticated European." She leaned back into him and looked up to meet his eyes. She was happy for his citizenship but would miss the thrill of dating someone who lived on the edge.

"And he likes America… and Ireland." He kissed her smiling lips and glanced up in time to see Karen hop up in the passenger seat. Bernard waved one final time before backing out of the driveway and driving off down the street, off to whatever next adventure awaited him. He gave a silent prayer in hopes that he would one day cross paths with him, and it not lead to an all-out war.

"Such a shame. I was hoping to say goodbye to her. At least this time we were both fully clothed." Bernie huffed out sadly, leaning into the wooden column on the porch. He took the steps quickly, coming to stand at Niko's side. He had kept his distance and stood guard from inside the house, watching out the windows. He was still on edge and suspicious of anything and everyone. He was getting better at it, but sometimes it was hard for him to shake the uneasy feeling of being out in public… or being alone.

"There is always next time Bernie." Niko offered as the SUV turned the corner and disappeared from his sights.

"No thank you. I'm good." Bernie smiled and jerked his head back toward the house, "You coming back inside? It's rather cold out here."

"You got that right. It's damn near freezing out here." Gerry grumbled as he moved past them all toward the porch to get back inside the warm home. He had said what he wanted to say, and he would need several more drinks to try and forget the kiss he had given her. It had been impulsive and last second. She had given every signal to him but regretted that she would have to leave. The half attempt at 'let's stay in touch' felt cold and empty. They lived two very different lives that could not exist within the other. His hand flexed around the doorhandle, before jerking it open, needing that drink even more now.

"KATE! Water's boiling!" Mallorie screamed out once Gerry opened the front door.

"Shit. Come on. Let us finish cooking and settle down for one amazing meal! Galina said she would be by soon with some of her desserts and pastries. Which I can not wait for!" Kate ran her finger over Niko's picture in the passport and felt her heart lift. Things had been looking up for all of them and she was ready to see where life took them next. She had her family all together for Thanksgiving and was enjoying getting to show Niko the traditions of her birth country.

"Ugh! Please tell me she is bringing some of those krofne of hers. They are just beyond amazing. Horrible for my diet, but who cares right? This is the cheat day, correct?" Bernie offered his arm to Kate and started to lead her back to the front door, rambling on about all the sweets he had tried there, and which ones Kate would need to divulge into. They paused on the front porch and looked back to Niko who had turned to look back out at the ocean.

"You coming?" Bernie called, glancing down to see the worried expression cross over Kate's face.

"Yeah. Sorry. On my way." Niko shook his head and headed after his girlfriend and best friend into the warm, and deliciously smelling home. He would have time later to mull over everything that kept trying to invade his thoughts.

aaaaaa

The spread of food was expansive. Dishes from multiple cultures were laid out along the surface of the marble island in the kitchen. Everything from the traditional turkey, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, to the more exotic side dishes from Puerto Rico and Jamaica, and the savory and sweet desserts from Niko and Roman's home country provided by Galina. It may not look like every other American's typical Thanksgiving spread, but it was theirs, and they all couldn't be more thankful for what they had in front of them.

The group of friends, who felt more like family since the events surrounding Roman and Mallorie's wedding, gathered around and took each other's hands to say grace. Each took their turn adding to what they were most thankful for and that they were grateful to be alive and able to be with loved ones on this special day. Roman had started to ramble on and Mallorie kicked his foot as her stomach growled loudly to hurry it up. She had a baby to provide for.

One by one, they piled their plates high with food and took a spot in the dining room. Stories were swapped, food was passed around, drinks were poured, and the joyous sound of laughter lifted to fill the home. Every where Niko looked all he could see was peace and happiness. But somewhere deep down he still felt depressed. Like he wasn't meant to be sitting here next to Kate at his cousin's dining room table enjoying wonderful food. In the middle of Packie retelling the story of how he met Niko, he excused himself quietly from the table. Kate sent him a concerned look, but he kissed it away saying he needed to use the bathroom.

He headed toward the back of the home and slipped out the backdoor needing some fresh air. The sun was slowly making its trek down to the horizon and was in the beginning stages of painting the sunset. He walked over toward the edge of the fenced in part of the yard and leaned into one of the posts, letting out a soft sigh. He should be happy, overjoyed even, that things were finished. He had won. He had succeeded in everything he wanted to accomplish in life. What was there to worry over?

He had someone he loved, who loved him back. His cousin was married and had a child on the way. His friends were alive and well. Everything was looking up for him, so why couldn't he shake the feeling of the other shoe needing to drop. Hadn't it already crashed down to earth when Kate had been shot? He was confused and it bothered him greatly.

He was done with the life of crime. No one had tried to pull him back in. Kenny had kept his word and left him alone. The Italian mobs were all scrambling to get into his good graces and those of Gerry, who had shook the underground world with his triumphant return from the dead. With his new citizenship the local government should start to leave him alone. Every single loose end was knotted off perfectly in a bright red bow- so why was he outside moping?

"This is what you wanted, was it not?" Niko spoke to no in in particular. The wind gently skimmed along the yard and picked up a couple of fallen leaves. 'I have it all, yet it feels like I do not…'

"Hey, are you sure everything is okay?" Kate pulled Niko's jacket she wore around her tightly as the air was cooler outside and it caused her to shiver against it. She had heard the backdoor open and close and knew something was bothering her boyfriend. In the middle of everyone laughing loudly and seeing them distracted, she made her move to leave the table. If something was wrong, she needed to know.

"I do not know. It should be. Yet I can't shake this weird feeling." He held his arm out to her as she got closer and pulled her to his chest. He always felt somewhat better when he held her, and he could feel the depressing thoughts scatter to the recesses of his mind when she leaned her cheek against his chest.

"I know how you feel. Everything is perfect, and yet it feels too perfect. I think we are just used to everything being so wrong, we don't know what to do with ourselves now that its all so…?" She shrugged not knowing what word would best describe her feelings. She turned her head to lay her other cheek on Niko's chest wanting to see the start to the sunset. Roman's backyard had the best view in all of Liberty City in her opinion. The ocean, beach, the skyline in the distance. It was so breathtakingly beautiful.

"That sums it up rather well." Niko let his eyes close as he held on to her tightly. She did have a point. He was so accustomed to looking over his shoulder constantly, and now that he knew everyone was long dead, he couldn't let up with the paranoia. What was his life without the crime, murder, and always needing to be one step ahead of the law and enemies?

"I hope you don't think I'm bored or anything. I am very satisfied at the moment to have the quiet. Just getting to take our time in the morning and nights, having no where important to be, lounging around watching tv or a movie- it is wonderful and just what we needed. Plus, the other activities have been rather enjoyable." She looked up to him and watched the spark flicker in his eyes at her mention of their more intimate moments.

"Well if you were bored, I'd just have to find ways to rid you of the boredom. And I have a few suggestions." He let his hands trail down her body to settle on her hips.

"You know what I mean though. Ever since we settled down in the apartment, it seems like things are too quiet at times." She tilted her head to the side to see if he got her meaning or not. The wind picked up and blew a couple of loose curls into her face.

"I understand. I was thinking maybe we should try to book one of those rooftop dinners for New Years. So we can see the fireworks off the Humboldt?" He cupped her cheek, running his thumb over the faint scar that graced her soft skin. He tucked the curls back behind her ear and smiled seeing the earrings that glimmered in the early evening light.

"That sounds lovely. If you are up for it, maybe we can get everyone together for it? We've all been through a lot, and it would be nice to put it all past us and start fresh. As a family." She leaned into his touch, hoping he wasn't against it being everyone. Though, now that she had said it, she kind of wanted it to just be them. A romantic dinner among the glittering lights of the Algonquin skyline, glorious fireworks show at midnight, a rather speedy drive home, just to welcome in the new year joined together as one. A deep blush rose over her cheeks as her thoughts tumbled around how passionate Niko could be under the sheets.

"By the looks of it, we might be better served with it being just us." He leaned down pressing a light kiss to her grinning lips. He pressed their foreheads together and opened his eyes to see her staring back at him, "You know that I love you, yes?"

"And I love you more." She rose up on her tip toes to place a kiss of her own to him, sliding her hands up his chest to loop her arms around his neck. Her heart was full, overflowing with her love for him. He had shown her things that used to terrify her. He had held her hand and guided her into a brand new world, full of life, excitement, and joy. He had somehow reunited her family together, given her a new one in the making, and opened her eyes to what the world had to offer her. She was no longer scared to leave the house. She still had her second guessing to fall back on, but she was getting better at letting go and trusting him.

He lifted her off the ground as he pulled her to him, deepening the kiss. She was his breath of fresh air, and he would cherish it for the rest of his life. He felt something shift and lock into place in his soul. The missing piece that he was expecting to show after Dimitri's death, after letting Darko go, after killing Natalya. There was a fullness that was settling into his chest, warming his heart. He didn't need to seek revenge, he needed to seek out love, life, and a new beginning. He was being offered that new beginning with her. The void shrank rapidly to be replaced by an ocean of gratitude and fulfillment.

He spun her around, smiling as she giggled at his actions. For the first time in his life, he could clearly identify what he was feeling as joy. He had made it. He had it all, would work to keep it all, and didn't feel the bloodlust that usually simmered away under his skin. He felt so light, as if he would take off into the setting sun. Her smile brightened as he went in for another kiss. There was no place he wanted to be more, than right here, kissing on the angel that had been placed on this earth for him to find.

Clapping started up and they both jumped somewhat to see that all their friends and family had gathered outside around the lawn chairs. A couple of cheers came from Packie and Brucie. Roman held onto his own wife, smiling brightly to him, as Mallorie wiped a few happy tears from her face, letting her left hand rest over the growing baby bump. Francis and Gerry exchanged glances but otherwise seemed content and happy to be around one another and getting to see their sister's happiness. Little Jacob held his girlfriend next to Badman and sent them a nod. Galina placed her hands over her heart and smiled their direction from the lawn chair she rested in. Bernie leaned into a tree that was close to the house and gave a thumbs up.

He glanced down the row of houses along the cliff of the ocean and spotted someone on a motorcycle parked on the road in front of Faustin's old mansion. They saluted him the old comrade signal off the side of the helmet and drove the bike out of sight. He let a soft smirk lift the corner of his mouth knowing that even Darko was there for him when the time came.

Niko looked down into Kate's beautiful eyes and let his own happiness wash away the last few bits of depression that wanted to cling to him. He felt the words come to him that had been said in bitterness on Happiness Island. Only this time, he knew he had his own slice of the dream. This time he had the new start he didn't know he needed when he headed to Liberty City and his cousin.

This time he was ready to start over and do things the right way. To have the bright and glorious future that eluded him for so long- with Kate on his arm, Roman, Bernie, and his friends and family at his side. The dark and tumultuous chapter could be finally closed.

"So, this is what the dream feels like, this is the victory we longed for…"

And with those words, he kissed the love of his life against the backdrop of the city and the setting sun.

aaaaaa

(A/N): Well that's all folks! Happy, or not happy, 2021, since it came in swinging.

I am so pleased with how this story came out! From some random idea of wanting to write Dimitri's end with Niko, to giving Roman a rehearsal dinner, to letting Niko have both Kate and Roman in the end. This has been one spectacular journey for me- not just as a writer, but as a reader and person. I've met so many awesome people who have sent me messages and comments.

I have so many parts and sections of this story that I love and hope you all got to enjoy them as much as I did. It was definitely one large and long hilly rollercoaster of a story. And to think I almost didn't want to share the story. I have a few more ideas floating around in my head of where to take things next. But for now, I think I am going to go sit down and reread this novel of work and enjoy it for a time.

The best summary I can give for the next installment- Niko and Kate work on building their relationship through the new year (2009- what a year that was!), while juggling Mallorie's pregnancy, Niko's past, Francis' bid for Police Commissioner, and Packie's dream of branching out on his own to Los Santos. I got a couple of surprises mapped out already that I will want to include. I gotta go jump on some online GTA V to try and remember all the heists and missions that take place. (since online is set between IV and V).

Thank you to everyone who followed, favorited, and commented on this story! You have all been amazing encouragement to keep going when I truly felt like stopping for months at a time. Thank you again!

One Love!