Jane was in the barracks when she got word that she was about to head out on Patrol. It was a normal day like all the others, nothing out of the ordinary. Jane laced her boots grabbed her pack, rifle and helmet and headed out to meet her fireteam. She told them about their route for today and as always told them to watch their backs.
For the most part the patrol was quiet other then a few passing people with eyes glued to them which was nothing unusual. Riding in the humvee Jane came to the realization that it was in fact to quiet. Before she had time to speak there humvee was hit by an IED. Everything went black. Jane was awakened by one of her team members Jackson.
Sarge! Sargent Rizzoli can you hear me, jane lifted her head, ears still ringing from the explosion. I can hear you Jackson, she said with a wince in her voice from the pain in her shoulder and head.
Did everyone make it? Is everyone okay jane asked only to hear Jackson and two other members Miller and Smith say no sarge Fox and Jordan didnt make it.
As Jane got her bearings and looked around she realized her team had pulled her out of the humvee and safely behind some rocks. She looked over at the humvee now engulfed in flames, hung her head and whispered rest easy boys fighting back the tears that started welling in her eyes.
Miller stood next to his Sargent and asked what now Sarge? Jane shook her head bringing herself back to their reality, without another word Jane limped over to the radio pack and called in rescue. After what seemed like hours they heard a chopper over head. Jackson helped his Sargent to her feet and onto the chopper. As they flew back to base all Jane could do was think of the two men she lost today, disappointment and sadness filled her heart.
Once back on the base jane was lead into Medical. She lay on the examination table still thinking of the events of the day and how it went so wrong so fast. Jane had seen her share of loses during her 6 years in the army the last two being on the frontlines but today was different...today her team got news that they were going home, Jane being honorably discharged soon.
As she lay there she heard an unfamiliar voice Hello Sargent I'm Dr Maura Isles, I'm going to be treating you today. Jane sat up on the table with a pounding in her head. The Dr was standing in front of her flashing light into her eyes, her hand soft and steady touched Jane's chin to turn her head, checking the cuts and scrapes on Jane's face. It sent an electric shockwave through her body.
She wasnt sure what just happened but when this beautiful doctor touched her skin but she very much enjoyed it. While stitching up the deep cut on Jane's head the doctor spoke. "So, how long have you been serving?" Not breaking her concentration.
Jane cleared her throat and spoke. 6 years. These last two on the frontlines with the men who were with me today. I'm so sorry Sargent Rizzzoli, Maura said in a soft, comforting voice. I know you watched over these men with your life. Jane nodded. What about you Dr Isles..How long have you been serving? Maura took a minute to tie and cut the stitch before answering 4 years.
I'm actually going home by the end of the week she said with a huge smile, one that nearly knocked Jane back on her ass. Jane smiled back and said me too, got word this morning about being honorably discharged. That's amazing Maura said placing a bandage on Jane's cuts. So where is home Dr Isles? Jane ask quizzically...Boston Maura replied...Jane smiled you wont believe this doc...but that's my home as well.
Maura smiled up at Jane after writing out her doctor orders for the Sargent. Really said Maura...wait are you just messing with me she said looking at the Sargent questionably. What? No said Jane I was born and raised in Boston. Red Sox's all the way she said with a crooked smile.
Oh yes you are definitely from Boston with that being your favorite pastime. Maybe we can catch a game and a drink sometime looking away as a smile started to tug at the corners of the Doctors lips. A woman after my own heart she said smiling like an idiot.
I would really like that you will have to look me up when we are in back in the states. They both chuckled before silence fell between them. Alright Maura said after clearing her throat, for the next two days I want you to rest, I'm going to give you something for the pain and to help you relax. I want you back here in two days to check your stitches.
YES Ma'am Jane replied giving the doctor a half salute. Jane stood to grab her jacket to head back to the barracks to rest like the doctor ordered only to see the doctor looking at her in a way that made her stomach flip with excitement. Yes? Like what you see here doctor grinning when the doctor realized she was gawking at the Sargent. Huh, uhh sorry I was lost in thought the doctor said as her face blushed a little turning away quickly hopeing that it wasnt noticed.
Jane shook her head gave a little chuckle and said thanks doc for fixing me up I'll be back bright and early in two days as Jane was about to step out of the doctor's office she heard Maura say oh! And by the way don't ever call me ma'am again she said laughing I'm not my mother. Jane laughed at the comment, sure thing ma'am...I mean doc, smiled and walked away.
Maura stood in the hall a second and watched as the Sargent walked away with her jacket thrown over her shoulder. What are you staring at she thought to herself. Get a grip! She yelled inside her own head, but as the day went on all the doctors thoughts seem to settle on Sargent Rizzoli. She remembered how her skin felt when she touched her, the way her dark brown eyes danced when she laughed even in pain. She recalled the way the Sargent smiled her crooked smile and they way her heart raced when the Sargent offered to meet back in the states and how when the brunette stood to leave she couldnt pull her eyes away from this strong, beautiful woman who was standing in front of her.
What is going on here? Why do you feel this way? You have only just met this woman and already you are turning to mush for the thought of her smile and spending time together once back home. Maura wasnt sure what was happening but she liked it alot and couldnt wait to see the Sargent again in two days.
As Jane returned to the barracks she took a quick shower and changed into some clean clothes. She laid on her bunk staring at the ceiling thinking about everything that had happen that day. She was sad about what took place but proud that she got to serve along side them. She smiled at the thought that in just a few days she would be headed home...home she thought, a place she wasn't sure she would see again given the risk of her job. She couldnt wait to see her mother and her two brothers Tommy and Frankie. As she dozed off to sleep she was a wakened a few hours later by a horrible nightmare, there was no way she was getting back to sleep after that.
Jane wonder if the Dr would still be awake, after all, this woman was on her mind all day so she grabbed her jacket and placed on her boots. She approached the doctor just as she was leaving her office. Sargent Rizzoli! Maura said in surprise. What are you doing back her are you okay? Is something wrong? She asked with concern.
No Dr Isles I'm fine I couldnt sleep and wanted to see if maybe you would... Jane stopped uhh never mind I'm sure you are tired. Maura looked at Jane and could tell something was bothering her. It's okay said Maura what did you want to say? Jane picked her head up and asked. Would you like to take a walk with me?
Dr. Isles did not hesitate to say yes. Jane and Maura walked around the grounds for a bit before finding a place to sit. Maura looked at Jane, whats on your mind? Jane answered with "its bitter sweet, me going home and all". These people here have become my family and today i lost two. I dont know if I should be happy that I'm going home. I feel guilty...doc what am I suppose to do?...
Maura she said...huh Jane replied...Maura.. you call me Maura. Jane smiled a small smile and said in return you can call me Jane. So tell me Jane, what are your plans when you return home she said hopeing she wasnt intruding...um Jane said...I'm not sure, all I know so far is I want an ice cold beer and a very hot bath.
They both laughed a little..is that all Maura said...well Jane replied...I have met this woman who for some reason I cant seem to get off my mind and i would like to see her when I get back home and get to know her but I think shes way out of my league, I dont think we are even playing the same game she said with a grin bumping Maura with her shoulder.
Maura smiled "hmm, really? And this woman you speak of..is she smart, pretty with golden blonde hair and hazel eyes" Jane laughed a guttural laugh wait you know her? Jane replied. Maura smiled.
Jane says with a serious but soft voice...do..do you have a special someone waiting for you back home? Jane realizes that this may make Maura uncomfortable so she quickly says I'm sorry I dont mean to pry. Maura sits up a little straighter, actually no..i didnt want to start a relationship with anyone before i left because it just seems cruel to keep someone waiting for years when they could be out enjoying life. What about you? She says floding her arms to try and keep warm from the cool wind.
Jane felt as Maura shivered when the wind blew she took her jacket and placed it over her shoulders. Thank you, but aren't you cold? Maura spoke softly. Jane replied Nah I'm a hot blooded Italian. Maura laughs. But back to your question, no I dont have anyone special waiting back home other then my family. Like you I didnt start a relationship because I didnt know if I would ever return home given the jane holds her hands out to her surroundings the situation she says .
What are your plans returning home? Jane asked.. Maura thought for a minute hmm..I guess try and get some normalcy back. Maybe look for a job, go to some museums, look at some art and definitely a nice chilled glass of Chateau Latour. Maura continued, did you know The earliest evidence of a rice and grape mixed based fermented drinkwasfound in China (c. 7000 BC), earliest evidence ofwinein Georgia from 6000 BC, Iran from 5000 BC, and Sicily from 4000 BC. One of the earliest known wineries from 4100 BC is the Areni-1wineryin Armenia.. Jane looking at Maura trying to stifle a laugh. Wow that's interesting I didnt know any of that. Are you a secret wine critic Jane joked. Maura laughed. I might just be guess you will have to find out one day she said blushing at the thought. Jane looked away for a second trying to change the subject to not make the doctor uncomfortable. Hell jane said I know nothing of where my favorite blue moon beer comes from I just know that I like it and that it's the best beer you will ever try.
Maura smirks I've never had beer before Jane looks at Maura with a "you are kidding right" Maura sees and says I'm serious! Wait so you are telling me that you have never had a beer? Just wine? Jane replies, oh but no we are going to have to change that and laughs.
They spend the next few hours sitting and talking about any and everything. Maura looks down at Jane's watch and realizes its past 3am. Oh wow she says I had no idea it was so late I have an early day tomorrow and you need your rest I suppose we should call it a night or morning she says with a slim smile.
Jane stands up and stretches not realizing how stiff she was from sitting so long. Would you mind walking me back I know we are on a base but I'm still timid to walk back alone Maura states not knowing what the answer would be but hopeing the brunette would say yes. Without a second thought. Of course I will I would be crazy not to Jane replies. Maura let out a breath she didnt realize she was holding in, in fear for rejection.
When they arrive to Mauras barracks she smiles at jane and thanks her for the night filled with laughter and smiles. Jane smiles and simply says anytime, I'm always here day or night so dont hesitate to ask for anything, putting the stress in the word anything.
Maura stops jane before she walked away wait! I almost forgot I had your jacket. Jane comes back to grab it tripping over her own feet and ending up with Mauras arms around her and standing a few inches away from Mauras face. Feeling this incredible womans arms on hers sent goosebumps up her body that she sure the doctor felt under her own hands. I'm sorry jane said with laughter Maura laughs too , no need to apologize only then realizing how close she was to this beautiful woman they lock eyes only for a second before Maura kisses Jane on the cheek feeling her face get red hopeing the dim lighting hid it Jane smiles goodnight... sleep well smiles and walks back to her own barracks to hopefully get some much needed sleep.
The next day went on like every other day for Maura. She saw soilders for one thing or another, filled out and filed paperwork, the usual. But for Jane she was put on desk duty until the end of the week which she didnt mind because of yesterday's events.
Although It didnt mean she wouldn't be busy. Maura and Jane hadn't spoken at all that day or night. The next few days came and went until finally Friday was here Jane and Maura knew that come Monday they would be heading back home. Maura couldnt stop thinking about Sargent Rizzoli although she tried. She had to see her again just the thought of being in the presence of this woman made her heart flutter.
Late Sunday night Maura couldnt sleep, much like Jane knowing in just a few hours she would be on a flight back home. She sat up in bed and decided she would start packing her duffel bag and get things ready for the morning. When morning finally came Jane got dressed in her usual camo made sure to have everything orderly on herself and in her barracks. She got notified that it was time to go.
As she said her goodbyes and walked towards the plane she seen Maura happy at the sight she walked over to her and said "morning doc" with a slight smile. Maura looked up and smiled "good morning Sargent Rizzoli". This is it, I cant believe after 4 years away I'm finally going home. Jane smiled I know the feeling.
They boarded the plane strapped in and got ready to take the trip back home. Quite a few hours passed as jane looked over to Maura who was sleeping with her head propped up on her elbow. She smiled at the sleeping woman or who she thought was asleep. You're staring Sargent and chuckled. Jane who could feel her face turning red looked away quickly sorry she said in a almost whisper. Maura smiled it's okay to look it is what we have eyes for and laughed lightly.
Finally after some hours they landed. Jane had a huge smile and her face she grabbed her bag looking at Maura who was picking up hers "you ready jane asked" yes Sargent Maura said with a slight smile jane grabbed her hand and was almost pulling her faster then her feet could carry her. Slow down Maura laughed, where are we going? I have a surprise for you Jane said.
See when jane and Maura talked the other night a conversation about who would be at the airport waiting for them came up sadly Maura said that she would be lucky if her mother even showed. So jane took it upon herself to make a special call to her own mother with a very special request. She told her mother about Maura and wanted her mother and brothers to make a sign just for Maura to welcome her back home.
Jane laughed lightly at Mauras comment and said just come with me. As they walked towards the crowd of people who waited for their soilders she saw her mother and brothers as they got closer. Maura asked is that your family with sadness in her eyes yes look she said using her finger to pick up Mauras chin to see what was in front of her.
Mauras eyes lit up and tears streamed down her face as she read the signs. What? Oh my god, you did this for me she said looking at Jane. Yes Jane said, you deserve to be welcomed home just like me. Maura, speechless she wrapped Jane in a tight hug to the point jane couldnt breathe. So I take it you like it? Maura without a word nodded her head. Jane placed her arms around Maura and said softly in her ear no thanks is needed I just wanted you to know that you are appreciated and your service does not go unnoticed.
As Jane hugged her family and Maura thanked them she wasnt expecting them to hug her as well given that she was a stranger but all that was said was any friend of Janie's is a friend of ours. Maura smiled and laughed lightly. Jane's mother shouts out alright let's go! We have another suprise for you two. Jane looks at her brother Frankie who shrugs his shoulders and smiles.
Maura not sure looks quickly at Jane, she just smiles, shakes her head and says I have no idea but lets go find out. She picks up her duffel and Mauras too and follows her family. Jane and Maura sat in the back seat with Tommy who is eyeing them with a look of "what's going on between these two". Jane catches his glare and shakes her head no. Maura doesnt notice as she is in awe of being back in Boston. The family arrive at the bar, jane from the back seat says "really Ma?" The dirty robber? Angela smiles and says oh can it, let's go!. When they enter the bar there is banners that say welcome home girls. And thank you for you're service. The tables lined the back wall full of Jane's favorites and of course a bar stocked up with every drink that's worth drinking including Mauras favorite wine.
Maura grabbed Jane's hand and said you did all this for me to feel included? Jane grins and says, as much as I would like to take credit for everything I can not I had no idea about this. A few minutes pass and jane realizes that her and maura are still holding hands. Trying not to be upfront or hurt Maura's feelings jane lightly let's go of mauras hand and places it on the small of the womans back, she felt as maura jumped a little at the touch and says in a raspy voice. Well Dr. Isles would you care to have that drink with me now? Maura smiles and says absolutely. As time passes everyone is enjoying themselves Jane, Maura,Frankie and tommy are sitting at corner booth laughing and sharing embarrassing stories from childhood.
Jane ask Maura if she would like another glass of wine, Maura smiles and says how about that famous beer you mentioned with a grin. Jane smiles and heads to the bar. Frankie excuses himself from the table and walks over to jane at the bar. He nudges her with his shoulder "so, Maura seems to be a sweet woman, not to mention beautiful but I'm sure I dont have to tell you that, he says with a smile. Yeah she is, shes amazing Jane replys. So are you guys a thing? he says quietly. Jane gasped as the question was unexpected. Uh. I. No she says looking away.
Why the hell not Frankie demanded with a smile. Its obvious to everyone here that you and her have a thing for each other. I mean look at her shes sitting with our idiot brother laughing at his jokes. And you and I both know Tommy's jokes are not that funny.
They both look back at the corner table and laugh. Yeah you are right about two things Tommy's jokes are not funny In the least and yes she is a beautiful, smart woman. Jane smiles looking at Maura who catches her looking gives jane a sweet smile and a come back and sit motion.
So what are you two over here laughing about Jane says while handing Maura her glass of wine. Oh nothing Maura replies looking at tommy who cant for the life of him keep a straight face. Hm sure Jane states. Maura laughs.
The night finally comes to a close Jane and Maura are about to help clean when her mother stops them and says I dont think you guys just got back home go get a good night's rest and nice shower we can clean this up. Jane hugs her mother and says thanks ma, for everything. Her mom replies anything for my babygirl.
Jane and Maura head outside only to realize neither one can drive so they call for a taxi. Where to the man says. Beacon Hill please Maura replies. Jane looks confused as to say and then and where she lives but Maura shakes her head no. They arrive at Mauras home and Jane says in awe damn! Maura laughs. Would you like to come inside.
Jane smiles and says I would love to but I really better get to my mothers be her otherwise she will worry jane says witha roll of her eyes. tomorrow is going to be long and drawn out I have to look for place to live, a job and of course a car she says laughing lightly. Maura goes to speak but stops herself..Jane I have a guest room if you would like to stay the night, actually I wont take no for an answer she says with a smile. Jane sighs, okay but if anyone asked I put up a fight she chuckles.
The next day Jane leaves Mauras house before she wakes to go for a run. When she gets back to Mauras home, shes awake and standing in the kitchen cooking breakfast. Jane stands in the doorway of the kitchen watching Maura sway side to side with the soft music playing from her phone, thinking of how amazingly beautiful the blonde looks in the morning sun. Snap out of it she yells in her own head after which clearing her throat which startled the doctor. Oh hey I didnt hear you come In, i was hopeing that you didnt leave for the day without coffee or breakfast. Jane smiles I'm not sleep and ditch type of person she says hopeing Maura would know that it was a joke. Well, Maura says how do you like your coffee. Two sugars 1 cream please she says with a cheesy child like smile. So Maur...I mean Maura. It's okay you can call me Maur. I like it she says smiling at Jane. So what's your plans today? Maura ask. Um well I have an interview today down at the BPD. I want to continue keeping the people I care about safe so I'm going to be a cop and maybe one day a detective. Leave one danger for another I see Maura says worryingly. Well you do know my middle name is danger right? Jane says. Maura oh you have to be joking...jane remained silent...Jane! Tell me you are joking! Jane couldnt hold out any longer and burst into laughter yes I'm joking as she pokes the doctor in the stomach. So what is your middle name Maura replies. Jane looks at Maura...promise me you wont laugh if I tell you..Maura stands quietly...Maura Jane says, promise me or I wont tell you and neither will any of my family she says with a scrunched face. Okay, okay I promise I wont laugh Jane now will you tell me? She says batting her eyes at her. Okay...my middle name is...Clementine...jane quickly covers her eyes so she doesnt have to see the laughter building on Mauras face. Really? Maura replys I think it is very cute she says with a smile. CUTE! Jane says, no it is definitely not cute its obvious my mother hated me she says jokingly. Oh stop your mother did not hate you.
As the laughter stops Jane ask so what are you going to do today? Returning the previous question. Well Maura says I think I'm just going to take some time to visit a few museums maybe a little shopping. And meet up with an old friend who says she has news about a job that would be almost perfect for me. Jane was stuck at Maura meeting with an old friend when Maura ask are
you okay? Uh...huh? Oh yeah I'm fine...so this old friend...is she..is she an ex girlfriend? Jane blurted out before she was able to stop it. Maura laughs oh no shes just an old friend we went to BCU together. Maura could see her relax after her comment. Ohhh wait is someone a little jealous? Maura pokes...what no, no not at all I only wanted to be "all up in your business" as they say jane joked. But in reality she was in fact a little jealous at the thought of someone else being THAT person for Maura and not her even tho they just met over the last week. But felt relief when Maura said otherwise. Maura smiled well I guess I better get going, would you like a ride down to BPD Maura asked. Sure Jane said.
Once they arrived to BPD Jane hesitated before speaking...would you like to have lunch with me today? If you are free of course she said with hope in her eyes. That sounds great maura replied let's say 2:30. Jane agreed. Where would you like to go Maura asked, Jane smiled and said I will take care of everything you just make sure you are ready with a smile. Maura smiled as her thoughts took over wondering what Jane had planned. She knew she liked Jane and Jane liked her it was obvious but were they going to just be friends and dance around what they are both feeling or actually make a go of a relationship. Maura knew it was way to soon to talk about this so she tucked those thoughts to the far back of her mind.
When Jane entered BPD Lieutenant Korsak was waiting for her. Right on time he said with a grin. You must be Lieutenant Korsak she said as she put her hand out to shake his. Not surprised by her strong grip, yes I am if you would follow me we can get started. Korsak started by saying welcome home Sargent I see here you spent 6 years in the army with 2 tours. Yes sir jane exclaimed. Well under normal circumstances I would put you working the beat but given your time in the army and the experience you have I would like to have you on as a detective. We all believe that you would be a great fit for this position. Now given that you have just recently done your gun training for the army and a physical I dont see any problem letting you get to work. So I want you back here next week, bright and early Monday morning. Here is your gun and your badge, Jane smiled down at the gold shield before putting it and her gun on her belt in disbelief that she got the job. Yes sir Jane said. I appreciate this opportunity to work along side some of Bostons finest you wont be disappointed. Oh and one more thing, Korsak pulls keys from his jacket your car is out front. Jane tried to remain professional until she go into the car once the door shut she couldnt help but laugh and dance she stopped abruptly when she noticed someone looking at her, embarrassed she started the car and drove away. While at a light she looked down at her watch 12:30 she uttered time to pick up a few things and get ready for a lunch date with Maura Isles. She smiled at the thought of the two of them having lunch together. Only for her thoughts to be interpreted by fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear that she would mess up things that were going so great, fear that she would push Maura away like she did with so many others. Jane stopped herself in thought, no Jane you will not mess this up you are going to take it one day at a time if things dont turn into a relationship then you will still have a great friendship she said to herself before walking Into the store.
She grabbed Mauras favorite wine, what goes good with wine...hmmm. cheese she said and crackers! Better get some grapes and strawberries. Does she even like strawberries she thought to herself, better to get it then be sorry. Jane wandered around grabbing a few more things before checking out. As she drove passed her mothers house she thought shit wine glasses and turned around. As she got to her mother's door it swung open jane! What are you doing here her mother said. Well I came to pick up some wine glasses im having lunch with Maura. Maura her mother said questionably. Yes Ma Maura, ohh you mean the beautiful woman from the other night the one you couldnt pull your eyes away from. Jane looks at her mom, oh yes I noticed her mother says laughing lightly. Ma! Jane said embarrassed. I'm sorry but it's True she said smiling at jane. Okay ma where are your wine glasses I really have to get going. She pointed them out to jane as she reached to grab them her badge showed and her mother went nuts!
Jane Clementine Rizzoli! Is that a badge? Yes ma it is, why didnt you tell me you got the job. Ma now is really not the time I'm going to be late, making her way towards the door. Ma I promise i will tell you all about it tonight but i really have to go. Fine! Angela said with a pout! Jane kisses her mom on the cheek. I promise ma tonight. Jane rushed out the door without another word.
She finally arrives at Mauras house she walks up to the door with flowers she picked up on the way and knocks. Maura opens the door still trying to put on her earrings. Hi Jane she says happily, um these are for you jane says shyly. Oh they are beautiful, thank you but how did you know my favorite flower was lilies? I have a nack for these things jane says with a smile. Oh really? So you've done this for many women before? No no no jane says I just mean that you struck me as a lily woman. I only buy flowers for special people in my life she says looking away before Maura could see her face blush. Maura picks up her purse and Jane places her hand in the small of her back and guides Maura out the door to the car Maura just assumed Jane borrowed her brothers car for the afternoon. They take a short trip to a place where Jane usually goes to think and get a way. It was a clearing on a hill on the edge of the city where you could see everything. Jane has Maura cover her eyes while she sets everything up. When shes done she tells Maura to uncover her eyes.