Author's Note: Sorry for the delay again. I have a working laptop now so that should help. There are two more parts to the story after this, the trial and a post trial conclusion. Hope you enjoy this. stay safe and please review.
I own nothing except for Tad.
The days continued to drag on and turn into weeks. Before C.C., or Niles, were ready for it, the trial date loomed nearer. Now less than a week away from trial C.C. was becoming increasingly nervous. Her efforts to track down women from Tad's past had proved fruitless, earning her nothing more than a chorus of no's or unanswered calls.
The D.A.'s office said the case looked promising. The evidence against Tad should hold up just fine. C.C. knew how the rich worked though. He certainly wasn't above using his money and status to get out of this mess. C.C. needed an Ace up her sleeve, but was sadly lacking.
Her only refuge during the preparation process had been Niles. He was always there when she needed him. Her injuries were healing nicely and Niles' care had helped tremendously. Even Nanny Fine, the children, and Maxwell were being kinder than normal. She has been staying at the mansion since the incident. Once the trial is over she plans to sell the penthouse and find a new place. Maxwell isn't rushing he which both she and Niles are grateful for.
Over the past few weeks Niles had helped to provide some distraction to prevent C.C. from becoming overwhelmed. It started with conversations in the office or the kitchen. Then, when C.C. felt up to going out in public, short walks to get some fresh air. Now they would occasionally go out for a coffee or an ice cream(which C.C. would deny eating).
Tonight Niles said he was going to make her a special dinner. Maxwell was taking Nanny Fine and the kids out to celebrate...good report card?...C.C. thinks. A dinner with Niles sounded nice (When did that happen? C.C. wonders), and he certainly seemed excited. Niles had been full of extra energy all day. C.C. decided whatever happens with the trial will be ok as long as Niles is there. That Ace would be nice too so she'll keep hoping.
Niles was humming as he began preparing dinner. He wasn't sure when exactly things changed, but he had no intentions of going back. He was happy to help Miss Babcock through her healing process. He knew she wasn't going to be able to completely heal until the trial was over.
He hoped tonight would help get C.C.'s mind off of things for a bit as well as progress whatever was happening with them. Niles was glad they were growing closer and that she had quickly gotten comfortable around him again after the incident.
Niles knew they would get through the trial together. He knew C.C. was hoping for a Ace card and he was praying too. To be honest Niles was worried what he might do if Tad walked free. Tonight though was not the time for such things. Dinner awaited.
Several hours later Niles approached the office and knocked softly on the door.
"Miss Babock," he called out.
"Come in," she called.
"Dinner is ready," Niles said, opening the door and entering the office.
C.C. had temporarily traded her business suits for comfortable blouses and slacks. She said it easier on her arm. C.C. stood and winced slightly. Her arm still ached occasionally but C.C. had stopped the pain meds a few days prior. C.C. walked over to Niles and they made their way out of the office.
"Is it alright if we dine at the kitchen table? I can set the dining room if you'd rather Niles asked nervously.
"The kitchen is fine," C.C. smiled. She knew he was not used to sitting at the dining room table and she was more than comfortable in the kitchen.
Niles pulled out C.C.'s chair for her and helped her get seated. He quickly made up two plates and brought them to the table followed by two glasses of wine. C.C. complemented NIles on the meal as he sat across from her. They made small talk for awhile as they ate the simple chicken stir fry.
"Miss Babccok, if you don't mind me asking, what is happening here...with us?" Niles asked as they were finishing their meal.
"We're enjoying each other's company," C.C. said. "I don't think we need to rush into anything or label it. I'm enjoying spending time with you. I'm not ready for more."
Niles smiled. "I'm enjoying your company too Babs. I would never rush you. You've been through a lot and are still dealing with it. But eventually…," Niles looked at her sincerely.
"Eventually...yes," C.C. smiled. "Now let me help you clean up Belvedere."
They cleaned up from dinner in a comfortable silence. After a few minutes Niles walked up to C.C. and gently brushed the hair from her face. "May I kiss you?" he asked. C.C. just stared at him for a moment. "It's ok if you say no." Her face softened and she nodded. Niles leaned in and gave her a quick, soft kiss. They looked at each other and smiled.