Disclaimer already done
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Chapter 4
8 AM
"Danny" Sara calls
"Yes?" the ghost replies appearing
Sara jumps "Don't do that." she yelps "Look can you keep an eye on her for me? I need to take a shower."
"Sure" Danny nods seeing the baby in the playpen
"Thanks." Sara says disappearing into the bathroom "I won't be long" she calls.
Danny looks at the baby in the playpen "Hey Anastasia."
Anastasia grins at the ghost giggling happily as she plays with the plastic rings
10 mins later
Sara steps out of the bathroom to find Danny sitting on the floor beside the playpen talking with Anastasia. "She saying anything interesting partner?"
"Not really. Probably to other babies yes" Danny stands "How did she do last night?"
"Woke up once." Sara replies grabbing a bottle off the counter she prepares one. "Ian stopped by last night."
"Oh?"
"Almost scared the daylights out of me." Sara laughs
"As always"
Sara goes over to the playpen picking up Anastasia. "Yeah well he hired a nanny for Anastasia."
"He has money"
"Even so is that wise? I mean people will ask questions... how can a cop afford a nanny. Let alone all the questions I'll get when people find out about Anastasia. You know how it goes... the rumors."
"True. But trust Nottingham Sara he seems to care."
Sara looks at Anastasia "I know." she looks up to see Danny gone "I know"
20 mins later
Sara goes to the door opening it to find Gabe standing there holding two cups of coffee. "Come on in." she says stepping aside.
Gabe enters handing her a cup of coffee setting the bag with his laptop on the counter. "So where is she?"
"In the playpen. I gave her a bottle and just changed her." Sara says grabbing her boots she sits on the couch pulling them on. "I also need information on this person" she hands the card to Gabe. "Whatever you can find."
Gabe looks at the name "Who is she?"
"Ian hired her to be Anastasia's nanny. Before I agree to it I want to know if she can be trusted."
"Don't trust Nottingham?"
"I trust him I just want to know if I can trust her."
"I'll have the information when you get back" Gabe says
"Put her down for a nap around 10 or 11. She might want a bottle before her nap. I already put the formula in just add warm water and put it in the microwave for 20 seconds. The diapers and wipes are on the changing table in the loft. Put her on her back when you put her down for a nap. Put her down for a nap at 4. I should be back around 6 or 7. If I can I'll stop by during lunch. She can have Cheerios but keep an eye on her when she eats them. Call me if you need something. If you can't get a hold of me try Jake. He might be able to help."
"So he knows?"
"Yeah he stopped by when they delivered this stuff." Sara says setting the cup of coffee down she picks Anastasia up. "Be good for Uncle Gabe OK Ana."
"Of course she will" Gabe says "won't ya shortie."
"If Nottingham stops by don't freak out."
"I'll try not too. But you know how scary he can be."
Sara chuckles "Well I warned him to be on his best behavior" she assures handing Gabe the baby. "If you go anywhere her jacket and stroller are in the closet. The diaper bag is next to the changing table so don't forget to take it with you."
"We'll probably stick around here." Gabe says "Me and Anastasia will have some fun won't we kid."
Anastasia pats his face grinning around the pacifier in her mouth
"I'll take that as a yes" Sara laughs "Bye" she says heading out the door.
Hearing the door close Anastasia begins to whimper turning she squirms in Gabe's arms holding out her pudgy arms to the door
Gabe sighs turning the baby around "Come on Anastasia we'll have some fun. Besides Mommy will be back later." he wipes away the few tears falling down her plump cheek. "I don't think you need to cry huh. How about we play." he settles down on the floor with Anastasia on his lap. "Wow look at all the toys your Pops bought." he picks up a stuffed cow in bright colors "Who's this?"
Outside the window Ian crouches watching as the young man entertains the infant. After a moment he disappears
Anastasia looks towards the window holding out her arms grunting
"Hey what's wrong kiddo?" Gabe asks he glancing over his shoulder to find no one at the window 'Nottingham was probably there.' he shakes his head "How about we watch us some cartoons."
Sara and Jake's office
"Hey Pez" Jake greets as his darkhaired partner enters "I see you made it on time."
Sara laughs "Well what can I say Gabe is definately an angel."
"I take it he showed up on time." Jake smiles
"Yep."
"How'd your night go?"
"She woke up once."
"Well there is one good thing"
"What?" Sara asks suspiciously
"You didn't have to deal with waking up five times a night"
Sara sits down "True" 'Though I'd have liked to have that time with her.' "So what's on for today?"
"The double murder at a club a few blocks from here."
"What was the deal?" Sara asks preparing to listen to her partner
Vorschlag Industries
"How the hell did this happen?" Irons says angrily as he paces
Ian stands there his head bowed listening as his Master rants
"The child was a very important project. Find the doctor. I want to know how he got the child out of there."
"He is nowhere to be found" Ian says softly
"Detective Pezzini was to never know about the child." Irons states he shakes his head "But it is too late to fix that... other than kill her and all that knows about her."
Ian looks up "But is that wise?"
"Very good point Ian. Keep an eye on them both. If the child shows any interesting traits let me know."
Ian nods glancing at Irons 'No I will not let you have her.'
Irons sits down dismissing Ian wordlessly
Ian walks out of the office his mind on the little girl 'I will not let anyone take Anastasia from Lady Sara.'
That afternoon
Sara and Jake enter the apartment carrying a pizza box only to find Gabe staring at the computer screen "Hey Gabriel what's with the look?" Sara asks
"Yeah man we bring you food." Jake says setting the box on the counter
"Oh nothing just doing some research." Gabe replies closing the computer "What kind?"
"Meat" Jake answers opening the box.
"Is Anastasia down?" Sara asks going to the refrigerator
"Yeah I just put her down."
Sara grabs three cans of pop setting them on the counter. "How'd it go?"
"Watched some cartoons, did some reading, played with the toys." Gabe shrugs
"Something tells me Gabe had more fun then Anastasia" Jake snickers
"Hey I was an only child." Gabe protests
"So was I" Sara shrugs sitting down at the counter she opens the pizza box.
"Any interesting cases?" Gabe asks grabbing a slice of pizza
"A double homicide at a club." Sara replies taking a bite out of her slice of pizza.
"Looks like a fight gone bad" Jake says opening his can of pop.
"We still need to find the weapon and the shooter" Sara says
"Yeah" Jake agrees
30 mins later
Sara stands over the crib looking at the sleeping baby. Sensing dark eyes on her she looks up to see Ian crouching outside the window. She looks back at Anastasia stroking her cheek "Have a good nap Ana. I'll see you when I get home." With a final look at Ian she straightens up walking out. "We should get back to work before Dante flips"
"Yeah sure." Jake says grabbing his jacket
"Have fun Gabe." Sara says grabbing her own jacket she follows Jake out of the apartment
"Thanks for lunch" Gabe calls
7 PM
Sara enters the apartment to find Gabe on the floor entertaining Anastasia. She laughs at the intense look on Anastasia's face "Gabe what are you telling her?" she asks tossing her jacket on the couch she picks up the baby
"Oh nothing much. Just the basics of hacking." Gabe says innocently
"Uh oh is Uncle Gabe corrupting you Ana" Sara says tickling the baby's stomach. "We can't have that now can we"
Gabe rolls his eyes "I finished with the background on that lady."
"And?" Sara asks going to the kitchen she grabs a box of cereal out of the cupboard.
"Brother was military. She seems to have no record."
"Nothing suspicious?" Sara asks
"Not that I can find."
Sara nods offering the baby a piece of cereal
Anastasia spits out her pacifier taking the sweetened cereal.
Sara turns her attention to pouring herself some cereal "Any bad feelings about her?" she asks
Gabe sits at the counter "No. You?"
Sara goes to the refrigerator taking out the milk. "I guess not. When he gave me the card I didn't get anything bad from the Witchblade. Besides he's never tried hurting me... sure he's scared the daylights out of me appearing out of nowhere but he's never hurt me." she pours the milk over her cereal
"What about Anastasia? Do you trust him with her?"
Sara pauses looking at Anastasia who meets her gaze straight on. "I don't think he'd hurt his own blood. Irons though... I'd count on that but I don't think he has it in him."
Anastasia coos sticking her fist in her mouth
'No I don't think he'd hurt his own child. He's not that much a monster.'
"I'll trust you on that." Gabe says "I better go. I've got friends I'm supposed to meet. What time do you want me here?"
"Same time?"
Gabe nods "Sure."
"I'll call that woman Jas tomorrow sometime."
Gabe grabs his laptop shoving it in the bag "I'll see you tomorrow then." he pats Anastasia's head "Don't keep your Mom up too late kid."
"Thanks Gabe" Sara calls as he walks out the door
"Your welcome. Have a good night." he calls closing the door behind him.
2 hours later
Sara is brought out of her sleep by the feeling of Anastasia squirming on her chest. She slowly opens her eyes to find Ian crouched beside the couch his eyes on Anastasia. "What time is it?" she asks groggily
Ian looks at her "9."
"How long have I been asleep?"
"Almost an hour"
"She probably wants a bottle" Sara yawns sitting up. "Can you take her?"
Ian hesitates for a moment then nods taking the baby.
Sara smiles slightly seeing Anastasia giving Ian a toothless smile. Sara stands going into the kitchen she grabs a bottle "So Nottingham is this visit to see Anastasia or does Irons want something?" she asks curiously
"He wants me to keep a close eye on her." Ian says his eyes regarding the baby in his arms cautiously
"Why?"
"He did not say. I think he is hoping that she will show signs of being the next Weilder."
"I thought that there is only one born a generation." Sara says measuring out the formula. She pauses "She is the next generation." she reminds herself
"Yes."
"What is he looking for?"
"He did not say."
Sara sets the bottle in the microwave looking at Ian "And if she is the next Wielder are you going to hand her over to him?"
Ian looks at Anastasia seeing the baby's innocent gaze he lifts his gloved hand stroking Anastasia's cheek "No. She is an innocent."
"As you were when he got you."
Ian flinches at Sara's words "Yes. I was born to serve you." he looks at Sara briefly "Yet I ended up serving him."
"Why?" Sara asks taking the bottle out of the microwave
"He found me before we found each other."
Anastasia looks at her mother seeing the bottle she holds out her hand while keeping a grip on her father's coat. She chatters happily
Sara laughs "Well someone wants her bottle." she sets the bottle down reaching out to take Anastasia from Ian's arms.
Anastasia whimpers going to her mother yet her eyes
go to her father.
Sara offers Anastasia her bottle trying to distract her from grabbing at her father. "Come on Anastasia I know you want your bottle."
Anastasia begins to drink from the bottle her eyes going back and forth between her parents.
Ian looks away "I should go."
Anastasia kicks frantically pushing the bottle away
"Anastasia finish your bottle its almost time for bed." she looks up to see Ian gone. 'Nottingham' she sighs to herself "Come on Ana" she carries the baby to the loft sitting on her bed holding Anastasia close. "Hey no crying he'll return sooner or later." she whispers offering the baby the bottle.
Reassured Anastasia takes the bottle.
"Good girl"
Chapter 5
Next Morning: 8 AM
Sara grabs the phone "What?"
"Hello Detective Pezzini."
Sara sighs hearing the smooth voice "I was wondering when you'd call. What do you want Irons?"
"How is Anastasia?" Irons asks turning to see Ian standing against the wall his head bowed.
"She's fine. I bet she's happier than she was with you and your freaky science nerds."
"Oh come now Sara she was well cared for."
Sara looks at Anastasia sitting in her playpen jiggling her plastic keys "But did they care for her only because they were paid too? Or because of the fact of who she is?"
"Is that really relevant Sara?" Irons asks
"Very relevant. A child needs to be in a safe and happy environment. I doubt she felt that at Vorschlag Industries."
"She was safe and well cared for."
"As she is here. What do you want Irons?"
"I just wanted to see how she is doing out there."
"Fine."
"Good." Irons says "If you need anything please call me and I will send one of her caregivers to her"
"I do have one question"
"Yes?"
"Where is the surrogate?"
"Unfortunately she did not survive the birth." Irons admits
Hearing that Ian inwardly cringes at the fact that the woman who carried his daughter for nine months is dead.
On the other end of the phone Sara has the same thought. "And her father?"
"He unfortunately... or fortunately has no idea that she exists." Irons looks at his Protector
Almost sensing her parents emotions Anastasia begins to cry.
Concerned for her daughter Sara hangs up on the billionaire going over to the playpen she picks Anastasia up. "What's wrong Ana?" she asks kissing the baby's cheek "Its OK. I won't let him hurt you." she soothes the crying infant.
Once in her mother's arms Anastasia whimpers the tears still falling.
"Shh Ana its OK" she kisses the baby's head
Vorschlag Industries
Irons hangs up the phone looking at Ian standing in the corner of the office "Have you found the doctor?"
Ian nods
"And?" Irons stands
Ian speaks "He is dead."
"How?"
"Gunshot."
"Self-inflicted?"
"Undeterminable."
"The body?"
"Taken care of." Ian replies
"Do you have any idea of how he got the child out?"
"It looks as though he turned off the security
cameras."
"Anything else?"
"No"
Irons sits down silently dismissing Ian.
Ian nods walking out of the office.
8:30: Sara's apartment
Sara opens the door to find Gabe standing there "Hey" she greets allowing him to enter. "She's had her morning bottle and I've changed her. Same as yesterday."
Gabe nods setting his bag on the floor "Sure."
"Bye" she says hurrying out of the apartment
Gabe checks on Anastasia in the playpen "Hey Ana." he greets
Anastasia grins around her pacifier waving her hands
"Lets keep you calm OK kid." Gabe laughs
Sara and Jake's office
"Hey McCartey" Sara greets looking up to see her blond partner enter their office. "Late night?" she asks with a smile
Jake scowls "Shuddup"
Sara shakes her head opening a drawer she grabs a
container of aspirin "Hey" she calls
Jake looks up "What?"
"Catch" Sara tosses him the aspirin
"Thanks" Jake says opening the container
"What did you do last night?"
"Not much. Played some pool" he shrugs tossing a couple aspirin into his mouth downing it with coffee. "How was your night?"
"Good."
"And Anastasia?"
"She woke once." she answers as the Captain appears at the door.
"Pezzini McCartey there's a witness to yesterdays
club shooting." Captain Santos the cop who replaced Dante after his death announces
Sara looks up "We'll be right there."
Santos nods walking away.
"Come on partner lets get going." Jake says grabbing the file
Sara stands grabbing her cup of coffee. "Lead the way."
That afternoon
Sara picks up the phone looking at the card Ian and given her she dials the number. "Hi is Jas there?"
"This is she" the woman states
"Hi I'm Sara Pezzini"
"Oh yes Ian told me you would be calling."
"I take it he filled you in"
"Yes he did."
"How about we give it a try... see how it goes."
"All right." Jas agrees "When do you want me to be there?"
"I have to be at work at 9 so how about you come over at 8... 8:15 tomorrow morning."
"Sounds good."
"I take it he gave you my address"
"Yes."
"I'll see you tomorrow then." Sara says hanging up the phone.
Jake sticks his head in the door "Pez I found another possible witness to yesterdays murder."
"Where?"
"An apartment five blocks from the club."
Sara stands grabbing her jacket "Well then lets go."
That Evening
Sara enters the apartment to find Gabe watching TV with Anastasia on the floor playing with her toys. "Hey Gabe." she greets hanging up her jacket she goes to the loft setting her gun in the nightstand drawer
"Hey Pez." Gabe greets
"I called that woman Jas." Sara tells him picking up the baby "Hey you" she greets kissing the baby's cheek.
"And?"
"Well you don't need to babysit tomorrow."
"You going to trust her?" Gabe asks
Sara shrugs "Going to need too"
"Wow kid your Mom is taking a big chance" Gabe says with a laugh
"Yeah yeah yeah" Sara waves off "I thought I'd give it a chance. After all you can't watch her forever."
"I better get going. I still have some work do to."
"Gabe thanks for watching her."
"Any time Pez." he replies grabbing his bag and jacket "I'll see you later."
Sara closes and locks the door behind him "Night" she calls. She looks at Anastasia "So kiddo what do you want to do."
Anastasia spits out her pacifier grinning at her mother
Sara grabs the pacifier "Don't want that huh" she laughs setting the pacifier on the counter. "So how about some Cheerios while I have dinner. Then you get a bath and bottle." she sets the baby in the highchair grabbing a box of Cheerios she puts a handful on the tray. "There you go."
"So how's it going Pez?"
Sara starts "Geez Danny don't do that."
"Sorry partner" Danny says innocently
Sara turns around to find him sitting on the
counter "You know if you weren't already a ghost I'd end up
hurting you."
"What can I say there's one good thing about being a ghost." he shrugs
"What can I do for you?"
"Just came to say hi."
Anastasia giggles throwing a Cheerio on the floor
Sara looks at Anastasia "You think that's funny"
Anastasia looks at her mother innocently picking up
a Cheerio sticking it in her mouth.
"She is definately going to be a charmer" Danny says
"What can I say... like mother like daughter" Sara grins
Danny laughs "Sure Pez what ever you say."
"Ana I think Uncle Danny's making fun of me."
"No never" Danny says
Sara opens the freezer taking out a frozen dinner.
"How's the case going?" Danny asks
"Same. Jake thinks that its a drug deal gone bad."
"But?"
"There's something else too it. It could be a drug deal gone bad but I think there might be something else."
"What does the Witchblade say?" Danny asks
Sara puts the frozen meal in the microwave "Not much. Mostly shadows. Some feelings" she pushes the buttons for the food
"What kind of feelings?"
"Disgust. Hate. Anger." she turns around "I can't get a clear feeling on the killer."
"Keep looking I'm sure you'll find it."
"Yeah I hope." Sara laughs as Anastasia throws a Cheerio at ghost Danny. "Ana he can't feel that."
Ana giggles happily
"You like throwing stuff huh" Sara shakes her head
"What can anyone say she's her mother's daughter." Danny says
Sara looks about about to retort when she realizes Danny's gone. "Your Uncle thinks he's so funny." she taps Ana's nose as the microwave dings "Time for dinner." she takes the meal out of the microwave setting it on the counter she grabs a container of orange juice out of the refrigerator sitting down at the counter. "Mmm dinner."
Ana bangs her hands on the high chair tray grunting
"Eat your Cheerios." Sara says picking up one of the O's she offers it to the baby. Ana shoves her hand away pounding on the tray.
"Might try baby food" Danny suggests appearing across the counter
Sara frowns "Where did I put it?" she wonders aloud
"Try the cabinet next to the refrigerator."
Sara sighs standing she goes to the cabinet she opens it to find a couple jars of baby food. "Hmm how about applesauce" she takes out one of the jars grabbing a baby spoon out of the silverware drawer. She opens the jar sitting back down. She takes a bite out of her own dinner then offers Ana a spoonful off applesauce
"Uh Pez might want to put a bib on her" Danny suggests
"Oh yeah" Sara shakes her head opening the drawer she takes out a bib snapping it around the baby's neck. Sitting back down she offers the baby another spoon of applesauce.
30 mins later
Sara drops the empty jar of applesauce and the empty box of lasagne in the trash grabbing a wet dishcloth she wipes Ana's face off. "Ana we're going to have to work on your eating habits huh"
Ana tries to avoid getting her face cleaned off
"Don't even think about that little miss." Sara laughs as she wipes the baby's face and hands off. "Now I think someone needs a bath." she removes the bib from Ana's neck lifting her out of the highchair she carries her into the bathroom.
45 mins later
Sara looks at the clean and dressed baby on her hip "Now lets get you that bottle huh. Then off to bed with you." she enters the kitchen to prepare a bottle for Ana.
30 mins later
Sara sets the baby in the crib and turning around she finds Nottingham crouched outside on the fire escape. She goes over opening the window "You know you can use the door." she says teasingly
Ian looks at her then down "I did not want to disturb you."
"Its never bothered you before." Sara reminds "I was about to make some coffee join me?" she asks seeing the thoughtful look she sighs "I could also use your thoughts on one of my cases... Jake and I have run into a wall on agreeing."
Ian reluctantly nods
Sara steps aside allowing Ian to enter. She leads him into the kitchen
"Is this the double murder?" Ian asks
"How did..." Sara shakes her head "Never mind I know that answer." she goes to the coffee maker. "The files on the end of the counter."
Ian removes his jacket and cap setting them on the back of the chair sitting down he opens the file. "Is the Witchblade not telling you anything?" he asks curiously as he looks through the pictures
Sara turns around surprised to see Ian without his jacket and cap "Wow never thought I'd see that." she says amazed at the almost innocent look his features take on as his hair falls forward.
Ian looks at her questioningly
"You without the cap. Everytime I see you... except when your around Irons you wear it."
Ian looks back down at the file
Sara shakes herself out of her thoughts of Ian and turns her attention back to his question "I keep getting more emotions than anything else." she glares at the Witchblade annoyed.
"And your partner?" Ian asks his voice showing his disgust at Jake McCartey.
"I wish you two would get over your little issues." Sara says
"He almost betrayed you."
"He ended up saving my life. Besides you could have told me he was a Fed and it would have saved us all a lot of trouble." she points out. She shakes her head "OK we'll argue about that later. Jake thinks its a drug deal gone bad the end."
"And you?"
"It looks like that... though I get the feeling that there is more too it. I just can't place it." she rests her arms against the counter
Ian looks at the pictures of the bodies then turns them to face her. "What do you see?"
"Two dead people."
"No look" Ian takes her hand holding it against the picture.
Sara stares at the pictures allowing the images to hit her.
"The two victims." Sara says "Feelings."
"The gun going off. Once... twice..." she shakes her head meeting Ian's eyes "All I get is feelings."
"Follow those feelings." Ian suggests
"Coffees ready." Sara says reluctantly not wanting Ian to release her hand yet wanting the distance.
Ian releases her hand "Sorry" he mutters looking down
Sara goes to the coffee maker grabbing two mugs out of the cabinet. "How am I supposed to follow the feelings if I can't find a suspect?" she pours the hot liquid into the mugs turning around she sets one before Ian. "Milk? Sugar?"
Ian shakes his head looking through the names
"We only found about three possible suspects."
"Their pasts?"
"Both ex-military. Both kicked out." Sara replies
Hour later
Ian starts noticing the time "I have to go." he says slightly panicked
Sara yawns "I should get to bed... she's going to wake up in a couple hours for another bottle."
Ian pulls on his jacket his mind a whir of the possible trouble he is going to face when he returns.
Almost sensing his distress Sara touches his arm
Ian looks at her
"Thanks Ian." she says appreciatively
Ian nods "Goodnight Lady Sara." he hurries to the door.
"Goodnight Ian" she says following him to the door she locks it behind him. Yawning she turns off the lights making her way up to her bed.
Hour later: Irons estate
Ian enters the study to find Irons sitting in a chair before the fireplace. Head bowed he stands there
"Where have you been Ian?" Irons asks his voice hard
"I was looking into information on the Doctor's death."
Irons stands stopping before Ian he grabs the younger man's hair forcing his head back "Are you lying to me Ian?"
"No"
"Have you been with Detective Pezzini?" Irons
demands
"I checked on her." Ian lies
Irons releases Ian with a shove he walks around
Ian. "You have been spending too much time around the
lovely Sara."
"You asked me to keep an eye on Lady Sara and the child. I did that." Ian grunts as a foot kicks him in his ribs.
"You are becoming too dependent on her." Irons says angrily his foot connecting with Ian's side again. "You are loyal to me Ian... not her."
"Yes sir" Ian replies "Loyal to you... only you."
Irons goes to the fireplace sticking a poker in the flames "Remove your shirt."
Ian swallows knowing what is about to happen. His eyes still on the floor he removes his shirt.
"Ian Ian Ian" Irons shakes his head looking at the
red poker
Ian feels tears sting his eyes as the hot poker scalds his skin. He blinks back the tears steeling himself for more punishment.
Sara's apartment
Sara awakens to the sound of Ana screaming. Throwing off the covers she goes over to the crib picking up the crying baby. "Ana what's wrong?"
Ana sobs clinging to her mother's shirt
"Shh its OK." she soothes walking to the kitchen to prepare a bottle for the crying infant.
TBC....
-----
Chapter 4
8 AM
"Danny" Sara calls
"Yes?" the ghost replies appearing
Sara jumps "Don't do that." she yelps "Look can you keep an eye on her for me? I need to take a shower."
"Sure" Danny nods seeing the baby in the playpen
"Thanks." Sara says disappearing into the bathroom "I won't be long" she calls.
Danny looks at the baby in the playpen "Hey Anastasia."
Anastasia grins at the ghost giggling happily as she plays with the plastic rings
10 mins later
Sara steps out of the bathroom to find Danny sitting on the floor beside the playpen talking with Anastasia. "She saying anything interesting partner?"
"Not really. Probably to other babies yes" Danny stands "How did she do last night?"
"Woke up once." Sara replies grabbing a bottle off the counter she prepares one. "Ian stopped by last night."
"Oh?"
"Almost scared the daylights out of me." Sara laughs
"As always"
Sara goes over to the playpen picking up Anastasia. "Yeah well he hired a nanny for Anastasia."
"He has money"
"Even so is that wise? I mean people will ask questions... how can a cop afford a nanny. Let alone all the questions I'll get when people find out about Anastasia. You know how it goes... the rumors."
"True. But trust Nottingham Sara he seems to care."
Sara looks at Anastasia "I know." she looks up to see Danny gone "I know"
20 mins later
Sara goes to the door opening it to find Gabe standing there holding two cups of coffee. "Come on in." she says stepping aside.
Gabe enters handing her a cup of coffee setting the bag with his laptop on the counter. "So where is she?"
"In the playpen. I gave her a bottle and just changed her." Sara says grabbing her boots she sits on the couch pulling them on. "I also need information on this person" she hands the card to Gabe. "Whatever you can find."
Gabe looks at the name "Who is she?"
"Ian hired her to be Anastasia's nanny. Before I agree to it I want to know if she can be trusted."
"Don't trust Nottingham?"
"I trust him I just want to know if I can trust her."
"I'll have the information when you get back" Gabe says
"Put her down for a nap around 10 or 11. She might want a bottle before her nap. I already put the formula in just add warm water and put it in the microwave for 20 seconds. The diapers and wipes are on the changing table in the loft. Put her on her back when you put her down for a nap. Put her down for a nap at 4. I should be back around 6 or 7. If I can I'll stop by during lunch. She can have Cheerios but keep an eye on her when she eats them. Call me if you need something. If you can't get a hold of me try Jake. He might be able to help."
"So he knows?"
"Yeah he stopped by when they delivered this stuff." Sara says setting the cup of coffee down she picks Anastasia up. "Be good for Uncle Gabe OK Ana."
"Of course she will" Gabe says "won't ya shortie."
"If Nottingham stops by don't freak out."
"I'll try not too. But you know how scary he can be."
Sara chuckles "Well I warned him to be on his best behavior" she assures handing Gabe the baby. "If you go anywhere her jacket and stroller are in the closet. The diaper bag is next to the changing table so don't forget to take it with you."
"We'll probably stick around here." Gabe says "Me and Anastasia will have some fun won't we kid."
Anastasia pats his face grinning around the pacifier in her mouth
"I'll take that as a yes" Sara laughs "Bye" she says heading out the door.
Hearing the door close Anastasia begins to whimper turning she squirms in Gabe's arms holding out her pudgy arms to the door
Gabe sighs turning the baby around "Come on Anastasia we'll have some fun. Besides Mommy will be back later." he wipes away the few tears falling down her plump cheek. "I don't think you need to cry huh. How about we play." he settles down on the floor with Anastasia on his lap. "Wow look at all the toys your Pops bought." he picks up a stuffed cow in bright colors "Who's this?"
Outside the window Ian crouches watching as the young man entertains the infant. After a moment he disappears
Anastasia looks towards the window holding out her arms grunting
"Hey what's wrong kiddo?" Gabe asks he glancing over his shoulder to find no one at the window 'Nottingham was probably there.' he shakes his head "How about we watch us some cartoons."
Sara and Jake's office
"Hey Pez" Jake greets as his darkhaired partner enters "I see you made it on time."
Sara laughs "Well what can I say Gabe is definately an angel."
"I take it he showed up on time." Jake smiles
"Yep."
"How'd your night go?"
"She woke up once."
"Well there is one good thing"
"What?" Sara asks suspiciously
"You didn't have to deal with waking up five times a night"
Sara sits down "True" 'Though I'd have liked to have that time with her.' "So what's on for today?"
"The double murder at a club a few blocks from here."
"What was the deal?" Sara asks preparing to listen to her partner
Vorschlag Industries
"How the hell did this happen?" Irons says angrily as he paces
Ian stands there his head bowed listening as his Master rants
"The child was a very important project. Find the doctor. I want to know how he got the child out of there."
"He is nowhere to be found" Ian says softly
"Detective Pezzini was to never know about the child." Irons states he shakes his head "But it is too late to fix that... other than kill her and all that knows about her."
Ian looks up "But is that wise?"
"Very good point Ian. Keep an eye on them both. If the child shows any interesting traits let me know."
Ian nods glancing at Irons 'No I will not let you have her.'
Irons sits down dismissing Ian wordlessly
Ian walks out of the office his mind on the little girl 'I will not let anyone take Anastasia from Lady Sara.'
That afternoon
Sara and Jake enter the apartment carrying a pizza box only to find Gabe staring at the computer screen "Hey Gabriel what's with the look?" Sara asks
"Yeah man we bring you food." Jake says setting the box on the counter
"Oh nothing just doing some research." Gabe replies closing the computer "What kind?"
"Meat" Jake answers opening the box.
"Is Anastasia down?" Sara asks going to the refrigerator
"Yeah I just put her down."
Sara grabs three cans of pop setting them on the counter. "How'd it go?"
"Watched some cartoons, did some reading, played with the toys." Gabe shrugs
"Something tells me Gabe had more fun then Anastasia" Jake snickers
"Hey I was an only child." Gabe protests
"So was I" Sara shrugs sitting down at the counter she opens the pizza box.
"Any interesting cases?" Gabe asks grabbing a slice of pizza
"A double homicide at a club." Sara replies taking a bite out of her slice of pizza.
"Looks like a fight gone bad" Jake says opening his can of pop.
"We still need to find the weapon and the shooter" Sara says
"Yeah" Jake agrees
30 mins later
Sara stands over the crib looking at the sleeping baby. Sensing dark eyes on her she looks up to see Ian crouching outside the window. She looks back at Anastasia stroking her cheek "Have a good nap Ana. I'll see you when I get home." With a final look at Ian she straightens up walking out. "We should get back to work before Dante flips"
"Yeah sure." Jake says grabbing his jacket
"Have fun Gabe." Sara says grabbing her own jacket she follows Jake out of the apartment
"Thanks for lunch" Gabe calls
7 PM
Sara enters the apartment to find Gabe on the floor entertaining Anastasia. She laughs at the intense look on Anastasia's face "Gabe what are you telling her?" she asks tossing her jacket on the couch she picks up the baby
"Oh nothing much. Just the basics of hacking." Gabe says innocently
"Uh oh is Uncle Gabe corrupting you Ana" Sara says tickling the baby's stomach. "We can't have that now can we"
Gabe rolls his eyes "I finished with the background on that lady."
"And?" Sara asks going to the kitchen she grabs a box of cereal out of the cupboard.
"Brother was military. She seems to have no record."
"Nothing suspicious?" Sara asks
"Not that I can find."
Sara nods offering the baby a piece of cereal
Anastasia spits out her pacifier taking the sweetened cereal.
Sara turns her attention to pouring herself some cereal "Any bad feelings about her?" she asks
Gabe sits at the counter "No. You?"
Sara goes to the refrigerator taking out the milk. "I guess not. When he gave me the card I didn't get anything bad from the Witchblade. Besides he's never tried hurting me... sure he's scared the daylights out of me appearing out of nowhere but he's never hurt me." she pours the milk over her cereal
"What about Anastasia? Do you trust him with her?"
Sara pauses looking at Anastasia who meets her gaze straight on. "I don't think he'd hurt his own blood. Irons though... I'd count on that but I don't think he has it in him."
Anastasia coos sticking her fist in her mouth
'No I don't think he'd hurt his own child. He's not that much a monster.'
"I'll trust you on that." Gabe says "I better go. I've got friends I'm supposed to meet. What time do you want me here?"
"Same time?"
Gabe nods "Sure."
"I'll call that woman Jas tomorrow sometime."
Gabe grabs his laptop shoving it in the bag "I'll see you tomorrow then." he pats Anastasia's head "Don't keep your Mom up too late kid."
"Thanks Gabe" Sara calls as he walks out the door
"Your welcome. Have a good night." he calls closing the door behind him.
2 hours later
Sara is brought out of her sleep by the feeling of Anastasia squirming on her chest. She slowly opens her eyes to find Ian crouched beside the couch his eyes on Anastasia. "What time is it?" she asks groggily
Ian looks at her "9."
"How long have I been asleep?"
"Almost an hour"
"She probably wants a bottle" Sara yawns sitting up. "Can you take her?"
Ian hesitates for a moment then nods taking the baby.
Sara smiles slightly seeing Anastasia giving Ian a toothless smile. Sara stands going into the kitchen she grabs a bottle "So Nottingham is this visit to see Anastasia or does Irons want something?" she asks curiously
"He wants me to keep a close eye on her." Ian says his eyes regarding the baby in his arms cautiously
"Why?"
"He did not say. I think he is hoping that she will show signs of being the next Weilder."
"I thought that there is only one born a generation." Sara says measuring out the formula. She pauses "She is the next generation." she reminds herself
"Yes."
"What is he looking for?"
"He did not say."
Sara sets the bottle in the microwave looking at Ian "And if she is the next Wielder are you going to hand her over to him?"
Ian looks at Anastasia seeing the baby's innocent gaze he lifts his gloved hand stroking Anastasia's cheek "No. She is an innocent."
"As you were when he got you."
Ian flinches at Sara's words "Yes. I was born to serve you." he looks at Sara briefly "Yet I ended up serving him."
"Why?" Sara asks taking the bottle out of the microwave
"He found me before we found each other."
Anastasia looks at her mother seeing the bottle she holds out her hand while keeping a grip on her father's coat. She chatters happily
Sara laughs "Well someone wants her bottle." she sets the bottle down reaching out to take Anastasia from Ian's arms.
Anastasia whimpers going to her mother yet her eyes
go to her father.
Sara offers Anastasia her bottle trying to distract her from grabbing at her father. "Come on Anastasia I know you want your bottle."
Anastasia begins to drink from the bottle her eyes going back and forth between her parents.
Ian looks away "I should go."
Anastasia kicks frantically pushing the bottle away
"Anastasia finish your bottle its almost time for bed." she looks up to see Ian gone. 'Nottingham' she sighs to herself "Come on Ana" she carries the baby to the loft sitting on her bed holding Anastasia close. "Hey no crying he'll return sooner or later." she whispers offering the baby the bottle.
Reassured Anastasia takes the bottle.
"Good girl"
Chapter 5
Next Morning: 8 AM
Sara grabs the phone "What?"
"Hello Detective Pezzini."
Sara sighs hearing the smooth voice "I was wondering when you'd call. What do you want Irons?"
"How is Anastasia?" Irons asks turning to see Ian standing against the wall his head bowed.
"She's fine. I bet she's happier than she was with you and your freaky science nerds."
"Oh come now Sara she was well cared for."
Sara looks at Anastasia sitting in her playpen jiggling her plastic keys "But did they care for her only because they were paid too? Or because of the fact of who she is?"
"Is that really relevant Sara?" Irons asks
"Very relevant. A child needs to be in a safe and happy environment. I doubt she felt that at Vorschlag Industries."
"She was safe and well cared for."
"As she is here. What do you want Irons?"
"I just wanted to see how she is doing out there."
"Fine."
"Good." Irons says "If you need anything please call me and I will send one of her caregivers to her"
"I do have one question"
"Yes?"
"Where is the surrogate?"
"Unfortunately she did not survive the birth." Irons admits
Hearing that Ian inwardly cringes at the fact that the woman who carried his daughter for nine months is dead.
On the other end of the phone Sara has the same thought. "And her father?"
"He unfortunately... or fortunately has no idea that she exists." Irons looks at his Protector
Almost sensing her parents emotions Anastasia begins to cry.
Concerned for her daughter Sara hangs up on the billionaire going over to the playpen she picks Anastasia up. "What's wrong Ana?" she asks kissing the baby's cheek "Its OK. I won't let him hurt you." she soothes the crying infant.
Once in her mother's arms Anastasia whimpers the tears still falling.
"Shh Ana its OK" she kisses the baby's head
Vorschlag Industries
Irons hangs up the phone looking at Ian standing in the corner of the office "Have you found the doctor?"
Ian nods
"And?" Irons stands
Ian speaks "He is dead."
"How?"
"Gunshot."
"Self-inflicted?"
"Undeterminable."
"The body?"
"Taken care of." Ian replies
"Do you have any idea of how he got the child out?"
"It looks as though he turned off the security
cameras."
"Anything else?"
"No"
Irons sits down silently dismissing Ian.
Ian nods walking out of the office.
8:30: Sara's apartment
Sara opens the door to find Gabe standing there "Hey" she greets allowing him to enter. "She's had her morning bottle and I've changed her. Same as yesterday."
Gabe nods setting his bag on the floor "Sure."
"Bye" she says hurrying out of the apartment
Gabe checks on Anastasia in the playpen "Hey Ana." he greets
Anastasia grins around her pacifier waving her hands
"Lets keep you calm OK kid." Gabe laughs
Sara and Jake's office
"Hey McCartey" Sara greets looking up to see her blond partner enter their office. "Late night?" she asks with a smile
Jake scowls "Shuddup"
Sara shakes her head opening a drawer she grabs a
container of aspirin "Hey" she calls
Jake looks up "What?"
"Catch" Sara tosses him the aspirin
"Thanks" Jake says opening the container
"What did you do last night?"
"Not much. Played some pool" he shrugs tossing a couple aspirin into his mouth downing it with coffee. "How was your night?"
"Good."
"And Anastasia?"
"She woke once." she answers as the Captain appears at the door.
"Pezzini McCartey there's a witness to yesterdays
club shooting." Captain Santos the cop who replaced Dante after his death announces
Sara looks up "We'll be right there."
Santos nods walking away.
"Come on partner lets get going." Jake says grabbing the file
Sara stands grabbing her cup of coffee. "Lead the way."
That afternoon
Sara picks up the phone looking at the card Ian and given her she dials the number. "Hi is Jas there?"
"This is she" the woman states
"Hi I'm Sara Pezzini"
"Oh yes Ian told me you would be calling."
"I take it he filled you in"
"Yes he did."
"How about we give it a try... see how it goes."
"All right." Jas agrees "When do you want me to be there?"
"I have to be at work at 9 so how about you come over at 8... 8:15 tomorrow morning."
"Sounds good."
"I take it he gave you my address"
"Yes."
"I'll see you tomorrow then." Sara says hanging up the phone.
Jake sticks his head in the door "Pez I found another possible witness to yesterdays murder."
"Where?"
"An apartment five blocks from the club."
Sara stands grabbing her jacket "Well then lets go."
That Evening
Sara enters the apartment to find Gabe watching TV with Anastasia on the floor playing with her toys. "Hey Gabe." she greets hanging up her jacket she goes to the loft setting her gun in the nightstand drawer
"Hey Pez." Gabe greets
"I called that woman Jas." Sara tells him picking up the baby "Hey you" she greets kissing the baby's cheek.
"And?"
"Well you don't need to babysit tomorrow."
"You going to trust her?" Gabe asks
Sara shrugs "Going to need too"
"Wow kid your Mom is taking a big chance" Gabe says with a laugh
"Yeah yeah yeah" Sara waves off "I thought I'd give it a chance. After all you can't watch her forever."
"I better get going. I still have some work do to."
"Gabe thanks for watching her."
"Any time Pez." he replies grabbing his bag and jacket "I'll see you later."
Sara closes and locks the door behind him "Night" she calls. She looks at Anastasia "So kiddo what do you want to do."
Anastasia spits out her pacifier grinning at her mother
Sara grabs the pacifier "Don't want that huh" she laughs setting the pacifier on the counter. "So how about some Cheerios while I have dinner. Then you get a bath and bottle." she sets the baby in the highchair grabbing a box of Cheerios she puts a handful on the tray. "There you go."
"So how's it going Pez?"
Sara starts "Geez Danny don't do that."
"Sorry partner" Danny says innocently
Sara turns around to find him sitting on the
counter "You know if you weren't already a ghost I'd end up
hurting you."
"What can I say there's one good thing about being a ghost." he shrugs
"What can I do for you?"
"Just came to say hi."
Anastasia giggles throwing a Cheerio on the floor
Sara looks at Anastasia "You think that's funny"
Anastasia looks at her mother innocently picking up
a Cheerio sticking it in her mouth.
"She is definately going to be a charmer" Danny says
"What can I say... like mother like daughter" Sara grins
Danny laughs "Sure Pez what ever you say."
"Ana I think Uncle Danny's making fun of me."
"No never" Danny says
Sara opens the freezer taking out a frozen dinner.
"How's the case going?" Danny asks
"Same. Jake thinks that its a drug deal gone bad."
"But?"
"There's something else too it. It could be a drug deal gone bad but I think there might be something else."
"What does the Witchblade say?" Danny asks
Sara puts the frozen meal in the microwave "Not much. Mostly shadows. Some feelings" she pushes the buttons for the food
"What kind of feelings?"
"Disgust. Hate. Anger." she turns around "I can't get a clear feeling on the killer."
"Keep looking I'm sure you'll find it."
"Yeah I hope." Sara laughs as Anastasia throws a Cheerio at ghost Danny. "Ana he can't feel that."
Ana giggles happily
"You like throwing stuff huh" Sara shakes her head
"What can anyone say she's her mother's daughter." Danny says
Sara looks about about to retort when she realizes Danny's gone. "Your Uncle thinks he's so funny." she taps Ana's nose as the microwave dings "Time for dinner." she takes the meal out of the microwave setting it on the counter she grabs a container of orange juice out of the refrigerator sitting down at the counter. "Mmm dinner."
Ana bangs her hands on the high chair tray grunting
"Eat your Cheerios." Sara says picking up one of the O's she offers it to the baby. Ana shoves her hand away pounding on the tray.
"Might try baby food" Danny suggests appearing across the counter
Sara frowns "Where did I put it?" she wonders aloud
"Try the cabinet next to the refrigerator."
Sara sighs standing she goes to the cabinet she opens it to find a couple jars of baby food. "Hmm how about applesauce" she takes out one of the jars grabbing a baby spoon out of the silverware drawer. She opens the jar sitting back down. She takes a bite out of her own dinner then offers Ana a spoonful off applesauce
"Uh Pez might want to put a bib on her" Danny suggests
"Oh yeah" Sara shakes her head opening the drawer she takes out a bib snapping it around the baby's neck. Sitting back down she offers the baby another spoon of applesauce.
30 mins later
Sara drops the empty jar of applesauce and the empty box of lasagne in the trash grabbing a wet dishcloth she wipes Ana's face off. "Ana we're going to have to work on your eating habits huh"
Ana tries to avoid getting her face cleaned off
"Don't even think about that little miss." Sara laughs as she wipes the baby's face and hands off. "Now I think someone needs a bath." she removes the bib from Ana's neck lifting her out of the highchair she carries her into the bathroom.
45 mins later
Sara looks at the clean and dressed baby on her hip "Now lets get you that bottle huh. Then off to bed with you." she enters the kitchen to prepare a bottle for Ana.
30 mins later
Sara sets the baby in the crib and turning around she finds Nottingham crouched outside on the fire escape. She goes over opening the window "You know you can use the door." she says teasingly
Ian looks at her then down "I did not want to disturb you."
"Its never bothered you before." Sara reminds "I was about to make some coffee join me?" she asks seeing the thoughtful look she sighs "I could also use your thoughts on one of my cases... Jake and I have run into a wall on agreeing."
Ian reluctantly nods
Sara steps aside allowing Ian to enter. She leads him into the kitchen
"Is this the double murder?" Ian asks
"How did..." Sara shakes her head "Never mind I know that answer." she goes to the coffee maker. "The files on the end of the counter."
Ian removes his jacket and cap setting them on the back of the chair sitting down he opens the file. "Is the Witchblade not telling you anything?" he asks curiously as he looks through the pictures
Sara turns around surprised to see Ian without his jacket and cap "Wow never thought I'd see that." she says amazed at the almost innocent look his features take on as his hair falls forward.
Ian looks at her questioningly
"You without the cap. Everytime I see you... except when your around Irons you wear it."
Ian looks back down at the file
Sara shakes herself out of her thoughts of Ian and turns her attention back to his question "I keep getting more emotions than anything else." she glares at the Witchblade annoyed.
"And your partner?" Ian asks his voice showing his disgust at Jake McCartey.
"I wish you two would get over your little issues." Sara says
"He almost betrayed you."
"He ended up saving my life. Besides you could have told me he was a Fed and it would have saved us all a lot of trouble." she points out. She shakes her head "OK we'll argue about that later. Jake thinks its a drug deal gone bad the end."
"And you?"
"It looks like that... though I get the feeling that there is more too it. I just can't place it." she rests her arms against the counter
Ian looks at the pictures of the bodies then turns them to face her. "What do you see?"
"Two dead people."
"No look" Ian takes her hand holding it against the picture.
Sara stares at the pictures allowing the images to hit her.
"The two victims." Sara says "Feelings."
"The gun going off. Once... twice..." she shakes her head meeting Ian's eyes "All I get is feelings."
"Follow those feelings." Ian suggests
"Coffees ready." Sara says reluctantly not wanting Ian to release her hand yet wanting the distance.
Ian releases her hand "Sorry" he mutters looking down
Sara goes to the coffee maker grabbing two mugs out of the cabinet. "How am I supposed to follow the feelings if I can't find a suspect?" she pours the hot liquid into the mugs turning around she sets one before Ian. "Milk? Sugar?"
Ian shakes his head looking through the names
"We only found about three possible suspects."
"Their pasts?"
"Both ex-military. Both kicked out." Sara replies
Hour later
Ian starts noticing the time "I have to go." he says slightly panicked
Sara yawns "I should get to bed... she's going to wake up in a couple hours for another bottle."
Ian pulls on his jacket his mind a whir of the possible trouble he is going to face when he returns.
Almost sensing his distress Sara touches his arm
Ian looks at her
"Thanks Ian." she says appreciatively
Ian nods "Goodnight Lady Sara." he hurries to the door.
"Goodnight Ian" she says following him to the door she locks it behind him. Yawning she turns off the lights making her way up to her bed.
Hour later: Irons estate
Ian enters the study to find Irons sitting in a chair before the fireplace. Head bowed he stands there
"Where have you been Ian?" Irons asks his voice hard
"I was looking into information on the Doctor's death."
Irons stands stopping before Ian he grabs the younger man's hair forcing his head back "Are you lying to me Ian?"
"No"
"Have you been with Detective Pezzini?" Irons
demands
"I checked on her." Ian lies
Irons releases Ian with a shove he walks around
Ian. "You have been spending too much time around the
lovely Sara."
"You asked me to keep an eye on Lady Sara and the child. I did that." Ian grunts as a foot kicks him in his ribs.
"You are becoming too dependent on her." Irons says angrily his foot connecting with Ian's side again. "You are loyal to me Ian... not her."
"Yes sir" Ian replies "Loyal to you... only you."
Irons goes to the fireplace sticking a poker in the flames "Remove your shirt."
Ian swallows knowing what is about to happen. His eyes still on the floor he removes his shirt.
"Ian Ian Ian" Irons shakes his head looking at the
red poker
Ian feels tears sting his eyes as the hot poker scalds his skin. He blinks back the tears steeling himself for more punishment.
Sara's apartment
Sara awakens to the sound of Ana screaming. Throwing off the covers she goes over to the crib picking up the crying baby. "Ana what's wrong?"
Ana sobs clinging to her mother's shirt
"Shh its OK." she soothes walking to the kitchen to prepare a bottle for the crying infant.
TBC....