NOTE: If you want to read the NC17 version go to http://www.voy.com/39259/
CHAPTER 6 (R) WHILE LATER Ian looks up as Sara steps out of the bedroom wearing a bathrobe "Zeke still sleeping?"
"Yes." Sara nods brushing her damp hair behind her ear, "He is out like a light." She chuckles sitting on the couch.
"Do you want dinner?" Ian asks tearing his eyes away from her.
"Sure" Sara sits on the couch listening to Ian order up dinner.
Ian hangs up the phone looking at Sara, "It'll be up in half an hour." He tells her his eyes going to the floor his hands clasped behind his back. "Sara... I'm sorry for earlier."
At his tone and posture, Sara winces "Don't be." she stands walking up to him she reaches up hesitantly brushing a curl behind his ear. "We needed to talk about that night."
Ian lifts his hand to her face "Do you regret that night Sara? For even a few minutes?"
Sara flinches but meets his gaze with a sad smile "My only regrets were agreeing with it only being a truce and not talking you into walking away from his life." She shrugs "Maybe none of this would have happened."
Ian brushes his fingers over her face "I wouldn't have been able to walk away." he says sadly "He was my Father. My whole life he trained me to not just protect both of you but to take over for him when he died."
"You still miss him." Sara states
"He was the only Father I ever knew." he shrugs "As much as I hated him I couldn't go back on my promise... or my training."
"I know." She nods, then tilts her head, "Do you regret that night?" she asks softly
"No." He smoothes a strand of hair off her face, "There are few things in my life I regret and that night wasn't one of them. I do regret leaving that morning." He leans in kissing her gently, "I regret everything I've ever done to hurt you Sara."
Sara presses her finger to his lips "Shut up Nottingham" she slides her arms around his shoulders "I don't think you ever meant to hurt me."
"I didn't want to." He says softly
Sara nods guiding his lips to hers urging him into a passionate kiss bodies pressed together. She moans feeling his arousal pressed against her leg only to feel her own arousal intensify. She slides her hands under his sweater caressing his warm skin. She breaks the kiss and helps him pull off his sweater.
Ian sits there immobile as Sara runs her hands over his chest, uncertain of how she will react to the scars covering his body. He flinches seeing the look on her face as she gently runs her fingers over one of the more prominent scars on his upper chest.
Noticing his slightly ashamed expression Sara brushes her lips over the scar then moves up kissing him sweetly. Gently, Sara brushes her lips over his jaw as she pushes him backwards onto the couch. She pulls the bathrobe up slightly straddling his legs.
Ian inhales sharply his eyes going to hers as he notices she is naked under the robe. He swallows a wave of lust trying to control his body's reaction.
Sara smirks, "Guess I forgot to mention..." She brushes her lips over his, "I don't have anything on under the robe."
Ian groans at her seductive tone and the knowledge, "Sara" he pulls her head down kissing her deeply. (NC17 Version can be found http://www.voy.com/39259/)
After a moment, Ian moves off Sara resting beside her he caresses her cheek watching as she slowly opens her eyes. "Sara?"
Sara kisses his hand a slow smile gracing her face. "Mmm." She purrs stretching her body.
Ian props himself up on his arm his other hand caressing Sara's cheek and jaw. He presses a light kiss to her temple.
Sara turns her head brushing her lips across his "What's on your mind?" she asks trailing her fingers down his cheek.
Ian rests his hand on her hip, "That you are beautiful." He says softly
Suddenly a loud cry fills the suite
Sara sighs hearing the cry "I'll go see what he wants." She kisses him "Finish this later?" as he tilts his head in response she gets off the bed pulling on the discarded robe she walks out of the bedroom. Once out of the room she takes a deep breath then continues on her way to the bedroom where Zeke is crying, as she reaches the door she hears a knock at the door.
"Room service"
"Ian can you get that?" Sara calls as she enters the second bedroom where she finds Zeke sitting up crying rubbing at his eyes.
Hearing Sara's request Ian gets out of bed pulling on his pants he walks out of the room wincing at the sound of Zeke sobbing. Ian goes to the door opening it to find the waiter there with the cart he gestures for the man to enter
Sara picks Zeke up "Hey sweetie did you have a bad dream?" she questions holding the sobbing baby close. "Shh, Momma's here" she soothes rubbing Zeke's back. She senses Ian watching her, turning she finds him standing in the doorway arms crossed over his chest.
Ian steps into the room standing beside Sara, he rests his hand on Zeke's back. "Dinner's here. Why don't I take him so you can eat?" Ian offers
Sara shakes her head "I'm fine." she kisses Zeke's head.
Zeke whimpers reaching one hand out towards his father as his other hand clings to his mother's robe.
Ian brushes the tears from Zeke's cheek. Leaning down he kisses Zeke's cheek wincing as the boy grabs his hair. "Zeke no" he says sternly untangling the small fingers from his hair.
Sara smiles at Ian the looks at Zeke "No pulling on hair, baby."
Zeke yawns
Sara turns to set Zeke back down in the crib sighing when he whimpers. "OK, OK" she cradles him to her chest. "Ian can you grab his blanket?" she requests
Ian removes the blanket from the crib wrapping it around Zeke. He smoothes his finger down Zeke's nose "You just want Momma to hold you huh" he looks at Sara leaning in he kisses her sweetly. "Once he's asleep I get you the rest of the night."
"Of course." she smiles looking as Zeke who rubs his cheek against her breast. She chuckles "You're hungry again huh?" When she meets Ian's questioning gaze she explains, "He used to do the same thing when he was nursing."
"I will go heat up the remainder of his bottle."
"Thanks" Sara nods following Ian out the room. As Zeke rubs his cheek insistently against her breast, she sighs. "Just a minute baby." She soothes
Ian watches Sara comfort Zeke "Are you OK?"
Sara nods tearing her eyes away from Zeke "I guess part of him still wants to nurse."
Ian removes the bottle from the microwave then walks over to Sara, handing her the bottle. He watches as she offers it to Zeke then gently he caresses Sara's cheek as Zeke starts to drink heartily.
"Sometimes I still have a hard time believing how old he is." She glances at Ian briefly then back at the baby, "It seems like it wasn't so long ago that he was inside me."
Ian guides her to the couch pulling her down beside him. "I wish I had been there." he presses a light kiss to her jaw.
"Ian..." she trails off biting her lower lip "I am sorry for not telling you about him."
Cupping her cheek, Ian speaks softly "Don't be." he kisses her forehead
Giving Ian a faint smile, she speaks "Why don't you go ahead and eat dinner."
"I can wait" Ian assures
"He might not go back to sleep for a while."
Ian shrugs "I like watching you hold him."
HOUR LATER Returning to the living room Sara meets Ian's gaze. "He's asleep. Hopefully he'll last the night."
"Do you still want dinner?" Ian asks
"I am a little hungry." She admits following Ian to the kitchen table where their dinner is waiting. She sits down as Ian lifts the lids off the plates of chicken, rice, and vegetables.
"Do you want me to heat it up?" Ian asks
Sara shakes her head "Its fine." She picks up a fork and digs into her food, "Better than greasy diners."
"Wouldn't know" Ian shrugs pausing in his eating.
"Never?"
Ian shakes his head "Father didn't trust anyone but Cook with his food. So if we ever ate anywhere other than home he would have Cook brought in to make his meals." Giving her a sheepish smile "Before you I never knew anyone who ate what I always would find in your kitchen."
"You're kidding?! You never knew anyone who ate Cocoa Puffs."
"No."
"Not even when you were a kid?"
"No. I was the only child on the estates. Mrs. Ellis was married but she never had any children... her husband, James, was the caretaker, until he died when I was twelve."
"How old is Mrs. Ellis?"
"63. Fredrick's 57. Mrs. Ellis used to be my Nanny, but when the housekeeper, Ms. Jenkins died, Father kept Mrs. Ellis on as housekeeper. He thought I was too old for a Nanny and he did not want to find someone else to hire and gain his trust, so he kept her around. Fredrick's Father was the butler when I was a boy, when he died Fredrick took over. Cook has been around for over 20 years. Pretty much everyone who works on the estates whenever we stayed there were the ones who have been around for a long time."
"So they are somewhat your family."
Ian shrugs "I guess so."
Sara reaches out smoothing Ian's hair back "Good. I'm glad you have them... they're your family."
"Part of my family" Ian turns her hand pressing his lips to her palm "but I am missing one person for my family to be what it should be."
"Oh" she swallows "who?" she asks hoarsely almost knowing his answer
"You" he replies gazing into the green eyes of his love "You my Lady."
Sara takes a deep breath "Ian"
Ian moves his chair closer to her his hand resting on her cheek "You know how I feel about you. You have been the one person in my life to ever treat me like a person... not a servant."
"I treated you like dirt" Sara protests saddened by the memories of hurting the man sitting before her. "I was mean to you. Then not telling you about Zeke."
Ian shrugs "I gave you reasons for doing all of that. I didn't exactly make things easy for you." he lifts her wrist glancing at the bracelet then back at Sara "After all I did to you, you didn't walk away that day."
Sara winces remembering the day, when he took the bolt for her and how she felt when she realized he was dead. "I couldn't walk away... something wouldn't let me. Whether it was the Witchblade, my own conscious," she looks over at the slightly open door where their son is sleeping "or Zeke, I couldn't just leave you there." She stands takes Ian's hand pulling him to his feet giving him a light kiss leading him to the bedroom.
Ian takes her face between his hands "Thank you Sara"
"For what?"
"For not leaving me there that day." he kisses her sweetly then gently urges her backwards on the bed. As she lies on the bed, he undoes the belt of the robe his eyes taking in her body. He trails his fingers over her face as he leans down kissing her lightly.
Sara tugs him close deepening the kiss her fingers tangling in his curly locks, "I'm glad I didn't." She murmurs against his lips.
"Why?" He asks his eyes searching hers as their faces are inches apart.
"Because you wouldn't be here. Zeke wouldn't have his father." 'I wouldn't be with you right now.' She brushes his hair back sighing in pleasure as he slowly slides into her.
WHILE LATER Sara gasps feeling Ian's fingers trail over her nipples "Ian" she sighs meeting his gaze.
Ian caresses her breasts his hand moving down her body resting on her stomach. He tilts his head thoughtfully gazing at Sara.
"Got thoughtful look" Sara smiles running her finger down his nose "What are you thinking about?"
"You are so beautiful" he says awed
Sara sighs, "I still haven't lost all the weight I gained with Zeke." She trails her fingers over his hand resting on her stomach. Sara chuckles "When I was pregnant it seemed like I was always eating. I felt huge by the time he was born and I only gained 20 pounds. Only 8 and a half of that was Zeke." She brushes a strand of Ian's hair back "The first thing I noticed about Zeke was that he has your eyes... and within the first few weeks I realized he has your smile." Sara smiles faintly brushing her fingers over Ian's lips. "Though I've only seen you smile a few times, he definitely has your smile."
Ian looks away
"Something wrong?"
Ian shakes his head
Sara scratches at his cheek "We should get some sleep."
Ian nods reaching over he turns off the lamp as Sara shifts to her side he spoons his body around hers. He wraps his arms around her.
Sara snuggles back into him enjoying the feel of his hard, muscular body pressed against her own.
"Goodnight sweet Sara." he says huskily as he brushes his lips over her ear.
Sara smiles "Night." Slowly the two drift off to sleep.
CHAPTER 7 (R version) MORNING "How's my boy" Sara coos rubbing Zeke's stomach as she finishes changing his diaper.
Zeke yawns rubbing at his eyes
"Still sleepy huh baby?" Sara kisses Zeke's forehead lifting the boy to her shoulder. She picks up the dirty diaper dropping it into the garbage can.
Ian stands in the doorway watching as Sara talks softly to Zeke. 'She's so beautiful.'
Feeling the familiar presence Sara turns her head looking at Ian giving him a faint smile.
Ian enters the room stopping behind her he runs his hand over Zeke's head "How are you feeling?" he asks softly
"A little sore." she gives him a faint smile amused by his shy expression at her words.
"I'm sorry if I hurt you."
Sara lifts her hand to his face "You didn't." she assures giving him a gentle kiss as Zeke squirms in her arms.
Zeke grunts reaching for his father
"You want Daddy huh baby." Sara laughs handing Zeke to Ian she watches as Zeke chatters at Ian. She rests her hand on Zeke's back as the boy pats at his father's face.
Ian smiles at Zeke amused by the boy's unintelligible words as the boy pats at his face. He meets Sara's gaze "Breakfast should be up soon. His bottle is on the table."
Sara nods "Now come 'ere you." she takes Zeke from Ian carrying the boy out of the room.
LATE MORNING Sara lies on the floor watching as Zeke sits next to her, happily playing with his toys. She turns her head watching as Ian settles down behind her. She looks back at Zeke smiling faintly as Ian rests his hand on her hip. "I'm going to miss him."
"You could come back."
"Can we not talk about this?" Sara says looking pointedly at Zeke as he crawls over to her. She shifts to her back lifting Zeke into the air laughing as the boy giggles happily, "How's my Zeke?" she laughs
'My family' Ian muses watching the two laugh as Sara gently tosses Zeke in the air. He runs his fingers through his hair then stands heading into the bedroom.
Seeing Ian head into the room Sara sighs then turns her attention back on Zeke. She sits up with Zeke on her lap "What's this?" she asks picking up one of the stuffed toys.
Zeke reaches out grabbing at the toy.
"You like that one huh." She glances at the half-closed bedroom door then back at Zeke on her lap. She presses her lips to Zeke's head watching as the boy plays with the toy.
Ian quickly chances into his running clothes then walks out of the room watching the sight of Sara and Zeke playing on the floor. "Sara"
Sara looks up noting his change in clothes
"I'm going to the park for a run."
Sara nods
"I should be back in an hour." He says pulling on his cap
"OK" Sara nods watching as he walks out the door. She looks at Zeke who is watching her thoughtfully "He's not happy with me right now. He wants me to come back to New York." She runs her hand over his head "I want to come home, be with you my baby, but I can't. I miss seeing you. I even miss your Daddy." she watches as Zeke sticks his toy in his mouth "Enough of those thoughts, I want to play with my baby boy." she kisses his head
HOUR LATER {Want NC17 version go here and find it here http://www.voy.com/39259/ } Sara walks out of the room where she just put Zeke down for his nap to find Ian in the kitchenette having a drink of water. "Have a good run?" she asks going to the sink
"Yes. Is Zeke down?" Ian inquires
Sara nods "Yes. I just put him down." She turns on the water washing her hands
Ian sets the bottle of water on the counter he steps up behind her. He rests his hands on either side of her "Sara"
At his close presence, Sara swallows heavily at the feeling of his body so close to hers. "Ian" she whispers feeling her body respond.
Ian slides one arm around her waist holding her close. He presses his lips to her neck inhaling her scent. He presses light kisses to her neck and shoulder. Slowly he slides his hand up her shirt gently caressing her stomach hearing her inhale sharply, he speaks "Being near you is the only time I do not think of what I am, of what I have done."
"Ian." She whispers then gasps as he unbuttons her jeans and slowly slides her zipper down. (NC17 version http://www.voy.com/39259/ )
Ian kisses her lightly then shifts off her settling beside her. He cups her cheek.
Sara gives him a faint smile.
"I wish you would come back with us."
"Ian can we please not talk about it." She sits up pulling her knees to her chest.
Ian sits up pressing a light kiss to her neck wrapping his arms around her.
Sara leans into him turning her head she brushes her lips over his. She turns taking his face between her hands as the kiss intensifies.
As her tongue caresses his Ian lies back down with Sara partially a top him. "Sara" he whispers stroking her cheek with his thumb their lips millimeters apart. He groans as he feels her tongue lick his lower lip. He captures her lips in a searing kiss their tongues dueling.
Sara sighs in pleasure then breaks the kiss resting her forehead against his cheek.
Ian wraps his arms around Sara holding her close as he pulls the covers over them.
EARLY AFTERNOON As she sits on the couch, Sara smiles at the sight of Ian on the floor playing with Zeke. She absently touches the stone 'He is so good with Zeke.' She smiles faintly 'I guess part of me always knew he'd be a good Dad.'
As Zeke grins, Ian finds himself unable to keep from smiling back. He watches as Zeke crawls over to the coffee table and slowly pulls himself onto his feet.
Zeke grins around his pacifier pounding the coffee table laughing. Suddenly he finds himself off balance and falling backwards on the floor.
Sara watches concerned and sighs in relief when Zeke suddenly laughs and starts clapping his hands while bouncing happily. "Well he's in a good mood."
"He definitely didn't get that from you." Ian leans back against the couch.
At Ian's teasing tone, Sara shifts so her head is over close to Ian's, "Did you just tease me?"
Ian turns his head his lips inches from Sara's "Stated a fact."
"I don't see you as a cheerful person first thing in the morning." She brushes her lips against his, "So are you a cheerful person in the morning? Or ever?"
"He always wanted silence when I was growing up so emotional reactions were not allowed."
"Unless it was from him." She says bitterly.
Ian nods caressing her cheek "As for anyone to know what I'm like first thing in the morning," he rubs his thumb across her lower lip "you are the only person who has ever been in the position to know." He admits then leans in kissing her lightly he pulls back when he hears a muffled thump. He looks over to see Zeke sitting next to a table a large pile of magazines scattered around him. He gives Sara a slight smile then stands going over he picks up Zeke.
Sara lies on the couch watching as Ian sets Zeke back down with his toys as he picks up the fallen magazines. She stands picking Zeke up she kisses the boy's cheek "Are you trying to annoy your Daddy?" she laughs as Zeke waves his hands.
Ian is about to retort when his phone rings. Giving her an apologetic look, he grabs the phone off the table "Yes? Mrs. Ellis."
Sara notices Zeke looking at the sliding glass door leading to the balcony. She opens it stepping out chuckling at the wide-eyed look on Zeke's face. "You like this huh baby."
"Everything here is going OK." Ian says watching Sara stand on the balcony with Zeke in her arms.
"How is Ezekiel?" Mrs. Ellis inquires.
"He's good."
"Good. Now there was an incident at Vorschlag."
"What kind of incident?"
"Well the security secretary, Bethany Snyder, was killed sometime last night."
Ian sighs rubbing the back of his neck "How?" he asks.
"From what I was told she was shot and her body was found this morning. The police stopped by to speak with you."
"Which ones?"
"Detectives Woo and McCartey. I told them that you would be home tomorrow."
"Call them and tell them that I will stop by their office tomorrow. Have my car brought to the airport as well. The driver can bring Zeke home and I can head over to the Precinct and the office and deal with this."
"Anything else?"
"No."
"How are you doing Ian?" Mrs. Ellis asks concerned.
Ian sighs staring at Sara "I'm fine."
"You know I'm here when you want to talk."
"I know." Ian hangs up the phone walking out to the balcony.
Sara turns her head "Everything OK?"
Ian shakes his head standing behind her he runs his hand down Zeke's back. "One of the secretaries was killed last night. Your partner wants to speak with me when we return."
"What happened?" Sara asks.
"Mrs. Ellis didn't say much. All she said was that one of the secretaries died sometime last night and they found her this morning. I won't know anymore until I return."
Sara tilts her head in agreement looking at Zeke who wiggles in her arms "You want down huh?" She walks into the room setting Zeke in the playpen with his toys. She rejoins Ian on the balcony "What are you thinking it is?"
"The woman who was killed, Bethany Snyder, came to Father for help... three years ago. Her former lover was stalking her and considering her high position in the company her superior, the head of security, brought it to Father's attention."
"Irons helped her." Sara says surprised.
Ian looks at Sara, "He did at times have a conscience my love."
"Now that's a surprise." Sara shakes her head.
Ignoring her words Ian continues, "First, Father had the lawyers take care of the legal side. But the man broke the restraining order and he was sent to jail."
"So he could be out." Sara muses.
"I suppose." He shakes his head.
Sara rests her arms on his shoulders.
Ian pulls her close "Now is not the time to think about that."
"Why not?"
Ian brushes the backs of his fingers down her cheek "Because I'm here not there." he lowers his head his lips grazing hers.
Sara smiles smoothing one of his curls back as Zeke cries from inside. Reluctantly Sara pulls away "I better go see what he wants." she kisses Ian quickly then heads inside where she finds Zeke rubbing his eyes. "Hey sweetie" she picks Zeke up hugging him "Were you lonely?"
Zeke sticks his fingers in his mouth resting his head on his mother's shoulder.
Sara looks at Ian as she presses her lips to Zeke's head and rubbing his back.
LATE NIGHT After a round of intense sex Sara sits astride Ian's lap slowly, she lifts her head from his shoulder looking at him. She brushes his hair off his face as he kisses her palm. 'He's so beautiful.'
Ian lays back pulling Sara down on his chest gently he runs his fingers through her hair as she shifts around on his chest. "I love you Sara." He whispers as he hears her breathing even out signaling she is asleep. "More than anything." He adds pressing his lips to her hair.
CHAPTER 8 (R for minor sex) EARLY MORNING Looking at Sara asleep beside him Ian smiles faintly. 'I wish she would come back. Yet I know she feels like she's doing what is for the best.' He brushes his fingers over her cheek watching as she stirs under his touch.
At the light touch, Sara slowly opens her eyes smiling sleepily at Ian. "Hi"
"Hi."
Sara stretches her arms over her head "What time is it?"
"Seven" he answers.
Sara nods shifting to her side facing Ian "When are you expected back?"
"Mrs. Ellis is going to meet us at the airport and she's going to take Zeke back to the house while I have to go meet with your Partner and take care of some things at Vorschlag."
"You have a lot going on for one day."
Ian shrugs his knuckles grazing her cheek "I would give up that whole life to be with you and Zeke."
Sara swallows heavily "I know." She runs her fingers over his bearded cheek.
"I wish we could just disappear." Ian muses.
"Like we could, someone would find us eventually. We would just end up on the run with Zeke. That's why I brought him to you, he needs a stable life, and he wouldn't get that on the run." She looks at the ceiling blinking back tears.
"Sara" Ian props himself up on his arm looking at her. He cups her cheek turning her head so she looks at him "We are stronger together than we are apart." he reminds stroking her cheek with his thumb. "Sara, we belong together, one day you'll believe that."
Sara lifts her hand to his cheek "Why are you so sure about that?"
"We have lived, loved, fought, and died side-by-side for many centuries, Sara. I know part of you remembers."
Sara shrugs "I remember seeing you briefly."
"Do you have memories of before you turned time back?"
At his question Sara flinches, "He told you."
Ian nods "He said you killed me."
Sara glances at her wrist.
*Ian standing in the middle of a warehouse his arms out as bullets hit him. 'If you see me again run.'
Standing in Irons study as a clean-shaven, Ian walks into the room with a rolled up carpet dropping it on the floor and Jake's body uncovered.
Sara running Ian through with the sword watching as he falls to the floor.*
Her eyes fly to Ian's confusion evident on her face. "He was wrong Ian, I didn't kill you. The one I did kill looked like you, but I had watched you die earlier, someone shot you. I killed the other one but he tried to kill me."
"Two of me?"
Sara shrugs "I guess."
"How do you know it wasn't me?" Ian asks curiously.
Sara stares into his eyes thinking back to what she saw in the flash. "The look in his eyes" she says after a few seconds of thought "there was nothing there but anger and hate. You have never looked at me like that; sure annoyance, disbelief, but never hate and anger."
He smoothes her hair back "I could never be angry at you or hate you." leaning down he kisses her sweetly "You and Zeke mean more to me than anything in my life." He says against her lips, "Before we met I didn't know what it was like to live, all I did was survive."
Sara leans up the last inch kissing him in return sighing happily, as he settles between her legs.
Ian settles his weight on his arms as he swiftly enters her. "Sara" he whispers.
"Ian" she breathes her eyes locked on his as she meets his slow movements. She wraps her legs around his hips her nails digging in his arms.
EARLY AFTERNOON Blinking back tears Sara hugs Zeke pressing a kiss to his head "I love you Zeke. Be good for your Daddy huh. And don't grow up too fast huh" she swallows heavily. She hands Zeke over to Ian, when he starts squirming in Ian's arms reaching for her; Sara brushes her knuckle down Zeke's cheek. "I'll see you later sweetie." She looks at Ian, "Take care of him."
"I will. Take care of yourself as well."
"Always do." She gives him a sad smile.
Ian reaches out wiping away a single tear as it slides down her cheek. "Be careful Sara."
Sara leans in kissing him lightly "I will" she steps back picking up her backpack. "Bye."
"Good luck." Ian wishes watching as Sara walks out of the suite. He looks at Zeke seeing the little boy staring at the closed door he presses his lips to Zeke's head "We'll see her again... soon."
Sara stares at the closed door "Bye" she whispers pulling her sunglasses down.
Zeke whimpers holding his arms out at the closed door.
"I know. I miss her too."
EARLY AFTERNOON: NEW YORK Ian steps off the plane with a dozing Zeke in his arms to find Mrs. Ellis waiting on the tarmac with the driver and Fredrick.
"How was your flight?" Mrs. Ellis asks as Ian joins them by the limo.
"Good."
"I informed the Detectives you were going to stop by." Mrs. Ellis informs him.
Ian nods handing Zeke to Mrs. Ellis "He had a small nap on the plane but he's ready to go down."
Mrs. Ellis nods looking at the boy who just blinks rubbing at his eye sleepily. "Well then its nap time."
Ian nods "I should be home in a couple hours." He brushes his hand over Zeke's head as it rests on Mrs. Ellis's shoulder. He turns striding to his car with a final glance at his son he gets into his car starting it he pulls away.
WHILE LATER: 11TH PRECINCT "What do you know about Bethany Snyder's death?" Jake questions as he, Danny and Ian sit in one of the empty interrogation rooms.
"Nothing but what Mrs. Ellis told me when I called yesterday." Ian answers regarding the two detectives. "All she told me was that Ms. Snyder was shot."
"How well did you know Ms. Snyder?" Danny inquires.
"Only what I have read in her employee files and the few times I met her while her former boyfriend was stalking her."
"Well the former boyfriend is still in jail." Jake states.
"Good." Ian nods "He terrorized her up until Mr. Irons stepped in and offered the company lawyers to help her."
Jake leans back in his chair "Where were you this weekend?"
Ian looks at the blond Detective "I took Ezekiel to visit with his mother in Boston."
"Can you verify that?"
"You can call the Four Seasons they can tell you I was there the whole weekend and only left the hotel twice to go for a run."
Danny lifts his brow "Do you know of any reason why Ms. Snyder would have been killed?"
"Other than her former boyfriend I do not recall any other incidents that involve her. You can check the company records if you like."
Jake nods "What exactly did Ms. Snyder do?"
"She worked as the secretary for the security department. I had little interaction with her unless something was brought to my attention by Mr. Irons."
"So you no idea if she had any enemies?" Danny asks.
"As I recall she was well liked by everyone in the office. Even Mr. Irons liked her." Ian shakes his head at the mention of Irons. "I have no idea why anyone would want her dead. You have full access to Vorschlag files and personnel."
"Thanks for coming in" Jake nods.
Ian stands "If you need anything else you know where to find me." He nods walking out of the room. As he walks a few feet, he hears Woo call his name, turning to find Danny walking towards him "Yes Detective?"
Danny stops before Ian "How is she?"
Knowing Danny is referring to Sara, Ian tilts his head slightly "She is well."
"Couldn't talk her into coming back" Danny remarks.
"I tried. But you know how stubborn she can be."
"Yeah she is that." Danny agrees "If you hear from her tell her to call me."
Ian nods "I will."
LATE NIGHT: 1111 FAUST "I better go." Sara says.
"Be careful Sara."
"I will. Tell Zeke I love him."
"I will."
"Ian..."
"Yes"
"Thanks... for everything." Sara says quickly before hanging up.
Ian hangs up his phone turning he looks at Zeke asleep in the crib. He brushes his fingers over Zeke's cheek "Your Mom loves you." He smiles as Zeke smacks his lips in his sleep reaching for the fallen pacifier offering it to Zeke, as the baby starts to suck on the pacifier Ian pulls the blanket up "Sleep well." He makes his way out of the bedroom across the hall to his own room. Once in his room Ian kicks off his boots and pulls off his sweater as he walks into the bathroom turning on the shower. Quickly he showers drying off he pulls on a pair of boxers crawling into bed. His eyes drift to the spot beside him; 'She should be here with me.' He rests his hand on the empty spot imagining Sara beside him a slow faint smile appears. 'One day she will be.' "One day" Ian mutters aloud before drifting off to sleep.
CHAPTER 6 (R) WHILE LATER Ian looks up as Sara steps out of the bedroom wearing a bathrobe "Zeke still sleeping?"
"Yes." Sara nods brushing her damp hair behind her ear, "He is out like a light." She chuckles sitting on the couch.
"Do you want dinner?" Ian asks tearing his eyes away from her.
"Sure" Sara sits on the couch listening to Ian order up dinner.
Ian hangs up the phone looking at Sara, "It'll be up in half an hour." He tells her his eyes going to the floor his hands clasped behind his back. "Sara... I'm sorry for earlier."
At his tone and posture, Sara winces "Don't be." she stands walking up to him she reaches up hesitantly brushing a curl behind his ear. "We needed to talk about that night."
Ian lifts his hand to her face "Do you regret that night Sara? For even a few minutes?"
Sara flinches but meets his gaze with a sad smile "My only regrets were agreeing with it only being a truce and not talking you into walking away from his life." She shrugs "Maybe none of this would have happened."
Ian brushes his fingers over her face "I wouldn't have been able to walk away." he says sadly "He was my Father. My whole life he trained me to not just protect both of you but to take over for him when he died."
"You still miss him." Sara states
"He was the only Father I ever knew." he shrugs "As much as I hated him I couldn't go back on my promise... or my training."
"I know." She nods, then tilts her head, "Do you regret that night?" she asks softly
"No." He smoothes a strand of hair off her face, "There are few things in my life I regret and that night wasn't one of them. I do regret leaving that morning." He leans in kissing her gently, "I regret everything I've ever done to hurt you Sara."
Sara presses her finger to his lips "Shut up Nottingham" she slides her arms around his shoulders "I don't think you ever meant to hurt me."
"I didn't want to." He says softly
Sara nods guiding his lips to hers urging him into a passionate kiss bodies pressed together. She moans feeling his arousal pressed against her leg only to feel her own arousal intensify. She slides her hands under his sweater caressing his warm skin. She breaks the kiss and helps him pull off his sweater.
Ian sits there immobile as Sara runs her hands over his chest, uncertain of how she will react to the scars covering his body. He flinches seeing the look on her face as she gently runs her fingers over one of the more prominent scars on his upper chest.
Noticing his slightly ashamed expression Sara brushes her lips over the scar then moves up kissing him sweetly. Gently, Sara brushes her lips over his jaw as she pushes him backwards onto the couch. She pulls the bathrobe up slightly straddling his legs.
Ian inhales sharply his eyes going to hers as he notices she is naked under the robe. He swallows a wave of lust trying to control his body's reaction.
Sara smirks, "Guess I forgot to mention..." She brushes her lips over his, "I don't have anything on under the robe."
Ian groans at her seductive tone and the knowledge, "Sara" he pulls her head down kissing her deeply. (NC17 Version can be found http://www.voy.com/39259/)
After a moment, Ian moves off Sara resting beside her he caresses her cheek watching as she slowly opens her eyes. "Sara?"
Sara kisses his hand a slow smile gracing her face. "Mmm." She purrs stretching her body.
Ian props himself up on his arm his other hand caressing Sara's cheek and jaw. He presses a light kiss to her temple.
Sara turns her head brushing her lips across his "What's on your mind?" she asks trailing her fingers down his cheek.
Ian rests his hand on her hip, "That you are beautiful." He says softly
Suddenly a loud cry fills the suite
Sara sighs hearing the cry "I'll go see what he wants." She kisses him "Finish this later?" as he tilts his head in response she gets off the bed pulling on the discarded robe she walks out of the bedroom. Once out of the room she takes a deep breath then continues on her way to the bedroom where Zeke is crying, as she reaches the door she hears a knock at the door.
"Room service"
"Ian can you get that?" Sara calls as she enters the second bedroom where she finds Zeke sitting up crying rubbing at his eyes.
Hearing Sara's request Ian gets out of bed pulling on his pants he walks out of the room wincing at the sound of Zeke sobbing. Ian goes to the door opening it to find the waiter there with the cart he gestures for the man to enter
Sara picks Zeke up "Hey sweetie did you have a bad dream?" she questions holding the sobbing baby close. "Shh, Momma's here" she soothes rubbing Zeke's back. She senses Ian watching her, turning she finds him standing in the doorway arms crossed over his chest.
Ian steps into the room standing beside Sara, he rests his hand on Zeke's back. "Dinner's here. Why don't I take him so you can eat?" Ian offers
Sara shakes her head "I'm fine." she kisses Zeke's head.
Zeke whimpers reaching one hand out towards his father as his other hand clings to his mother's robe.
Ian brushes the tears from Zeke's cheek. Leaning down he kisses Zeke's cheek wincing as the boy grabs his hair. "Zeke no" he says sternly untangling the small fingers from his hair.
Sara smiles at Ian the looks at Zeke "No pulling on hair, baby."
Zeke yawns
Sara turns to set Zeke back down in the crib sighing when he whimpers. "OK, OK" she cradles him to her chest. "Ian can you grab his blanket?" she requests
Ian removes the blanket from the crib wrapping it around Zeke. He smoothes his finger down Zeke's nose "You just want Momma to hold you huh" he looks at Sara leaning in he kisses her sweetly. "Once he's asleep I get you the rest of the night."
"Of course." she smiles looking as Zeke who rubs his cheek against her breast. She chuckles "You're hungry again huh?" When she meets Ian's questioning gaze she explains, "He used to do the same thing when he was nursing."
"I will go heat up the remainder of his bottle."
"Thanks" Sara nods following Ian out the room. As Zeke rubs his cheek insistently against her breast, she sighs. "Just a minute baby." She soothes
Ian watches Sara comfort Zeke "Are you OK?"
Sara nods tearing her eyes away from Zeke "I guess part of him still wants to nurse."
Ian removes the bottle from the microwave then walks over to Sara, handing her the bottle. He watches as she offers it to Zeke then gently he caresses Sara's cheek as Zeke starts to drink heartily.
"Sometimes I still have a hard time believing how old he is." She glances at Ian briefly then back at the baby, "It seems like it wasn't so long ago that he was inside me."
Ian guides her to the couch pulling her down beside him. "I wish I had been there." he presses a light kiss to her jaw.
"Ian..." she trails off biting her lower lip "I am sorry for not telling you about him."
Cupping her cheek, Ian speaks softly "Don't be." he kisses her forehead
Giving Ian a faint smile, she speaks "Why don't you go ahead and eat dinner."
"I can wait" Ian assures
"He might not go back to sleep for a while."
Ian shrugs "I like watching you hold him."
HOUR LATER Returning to the living room Sara meets Ian's gaze. "He's asleep. Hopefully he'll last the night."
"Do you still want dinner?" Ian asks
"I am a little hungry." She admits following Ian to the kitchen table where their dinner is waiting. She sits down as Ian lifts the lids off the plates of chicken, rice, and vegetables.
"Do you want me to heat it up?" Ian asks
Sara shakes her head "Its fine." She picks up a fork and digs into her food, "Better than greasy diners."
"Wouldn't know" Ian shrugs pausing in his eating.
"Never?"
Ian shakes his head "Father didn't trust anyone but Cook with his food. So if we ever ate anywhere other than home he would have Cook brought in to make his meals." Giving her a sheepish smile "Before you I never knew anyone who ate what I always would find in your kitchen."
"You're kidding?! You never knew anyone who ate Cocoa Puffs."
"No."
"Not even when you were a kid?"
"No. I was the only child on the estates. Mrs. Ellis was married but she never had any children... her husband, James, was the caretaker, until he died when I was twelve."
"How old is Mrs. Ellis?"
"63. Fredrick's 57. Mrs. Ellis used to be my Nanny, but when the housekeeper, Ms. Jenkins died, Father kept Mrs. Ellis on as housekeeper. He thought I was too old for a Nanny and he did not want to find someone else to hire and gain his trust, so he kept her around. Fredrick's Father was the butler when I was a boy, when he died Fredrick took over. Cook has been around for over 20 years. Pretty much everyone who works on the estates whenever we stayed there were the ones who have been around for a long time."
"So they are somewhat your family."
Ian shrugs "I guess so."
Sara reaches out smoothing Ian's hair back "Good. I'm glad you have them... they're your family."
"Part of my family" Ian turns her hand pressing his lips to her palm "but I am missing one person for my family to be what it should be."
"Oh" she swallows "who?" she asks hoarsely almost knowing his answer
"You" he replies gazing into the green eyes of his love "You my Lady."
Sara takes a deep breath "Ian"
Ian moves his chair closer to her his hand resting on her cheek "You know how I feel about you. You have been the one person in my life to ever treat me like a person... not a servant."
"I treated you like dirt" Sara protests saddened by the memories of hurting the man sitting before her. "I was mean to you. Then not telling you about Zeke."
Ian shrugs "I gave you reasons for doing all of that. I didn't exactly make things easy for you." he lifts her wrist glancing at the bracelet then back at Sara "After all I did to you, you didn't walk away that day."
Sara winces remembering the day, when he took the bolt for her and how she felt when she realized he was dead. "I couldn't walk away... something wouldn't let me. Whether it was the Witchblade, my own conscious," she looks over at the slightly open door where their son is sleeping "or Zeke, I couldn't just leave you there." She stands takes Ian's hand pulling him to his feet giving him a light kiss leading him to the bedroom.
Ian takes her face between his hands "Thank you Sara"
"For what?"
"For not leaving me there that day." he kisses her sweetly then gently urges her backwards on the bed. As she lies on the bed, he undoes the belt of the robe his eyes taking in her body. He trails his fingers over her face as he leans down kissing her lightly.
Sara tugs him close deepening the kiss her fingers tangling in his curly locks, "I'm glad I didn't." She murmurs against his lips.
"Why?" He asks his eyes searching hers as their faces are inches apart.
"Because you wouldn't be here. Zeke wouldn't have his father." 'I wouldn't be with you right now.' She brushes his hair back sighing in pleasure as he slowly slides into her.
WHILE LATER Sara gasps feeling Ian's fingers trail over her nipples "Ian" she sighs meeting his gaze.
Ian caresses her breasts his hand moving down her body resting on her stomach. He tilts his head thoughtfully gazing at Sara.
"Got thoughtful look" Sara smiles running her finger down his nose "What are you thinking about?"
"You are so beautiful" he says awed
Sara sighs, "I still haven't lost all the weight I gained with Zeke." She trails her fingers over his hand resting on her stomach. Sara chuckles "When I was pregnant it seemed like I was always eating. I felt huge by the time he was born and I only gained 20 pounds. Only 8 and a half of that was Zeke." She brushes a strand of Ian's hair back "The first thing I noticed about Zeke was that he has your eyes... and within the first few weeks I realized he has your smile." Sara smiles faintly brushing her fingers over Ian's lips. "Though I've only seen you smile a few times, he definitely has your smile."
Ian looks away
"Something wrong?"
Ian shakes his head
Sara scratches at his cheek "We should get some sleep."
Ian nods reaching over he turns off the lamp as Sara shifts to her side he spoons his body around hers. He wraps his arms around her.
Sara snuggles back into him enjoying the feel of his hard, muscular body pressed against her own.
"Goodnight sweet Sara." he says huskily as he brushes his lips over her ear.
Sara smiles "Night." Slowly the two drift off to sleep.
CHAPTER 7 (R version) MORNING "How's my boy" Sara coos rubbing Zeke's stomach as she finishes changing his diaper.
Zeke yawns rubbing at his eyes
"Still sleepy huh baby?" Sara kisses Zeke's forehead lifting the boy to her shoulder. She picks up the dirty diaper dropping it into the garbage can.
Ian stands in the doorway watching as Sara talks softly to Zeke. 'She's so beautiful.'
Feeling the familiar presence Sara turns her head looking at Ian giving him a faint smile.
Ian enters the room stopping behind her he runs his hand over Zeke's head "How are you feeling?" he asks softly
"A little sore." she gives him a faint smile amused by his shy expression at her words.
"I'm sorry if I hurt you."
Sara lifts her hand to his face "You didn't." she assures giving him a gentle kiss as Zeke squirms in her arms.
Zeke grunts reaching for his father
"You want Daddy huh baby." Sara laughs handing Zeke to Ian she watches as Zeke chatters at Ian. She rests her hand on Zeke's back as the boy pats at his father's face.
Ian smiles at Zeke amused by the boy's unintelligible words as the boy pats at his face. He meets Sara's gaze "Breakfast should be up soon. His bottle is on the table."
Sara nods "Now come 'ere you." she takes Zeke from Ian carrying the boy out of the room.
LATE MORNING Sara lies on the floor watching as Zeke sits next to her, happily playing with his toys. She turns her head watching as Ian settles down behind her. She looks back at Zeke smiling faintly as Ian rests his hand on her hip. "I'm going to miss him."
"You could come back."
"Can we not talk about this?" Sara says looking pointedly at Zeke as he crawls over to her. She shifts to her back lifting Zeke into the air laughing as the boy giggles happily, "How's my Zeke?" she laughs
'My family' Ian muses watching the two laugh as Sara gently tosses Zeke in the air. He runs his fingers through his hair then stands heading into the bedroom.
Seeing Ian head into the room Sara sighs then turns her attention back on Zeke. She sits up with Zeke on her lap "What's this?" she asks picking up one of the stuffed toys.
Zeke reaches out grabbing at the toy.
"You like that one huh." She glances at the half-closed bedroom door then back at Zeke on her lap. She presses her lips to Zeke's head watching as the boy plays with the toy.
Ian quickly chances into his running clothes then walks out of the room watching the sight of Sara and Zeke playing on the floor. "Sara"
Sara looks up noting his change in clothes
"I'm going to the park for a run."
Sara nods
"I should be back in an hour." He says pulling on his cap
"OK" Sara nods watching as he walks out the door. She looks at Zeke who is watching her thoughtfully "He's not happy with me right now. He wants me to come back to New York." She runs her hand over his head "I want to come home, be with you my baby, but I can't. I miss seeing you. I even miss your Daddy." she watches as Zeke sticks his toy in his mouth "Enough of those thoughts, I want to play with my baby boy." she kisses his head
HOUR LATER {Want NC17 version go here and find it here http://www.voy.com/39259/ } Sara walks out of the room where she just put Zeke down for his nap to find Ian in the kitchenette having a drink of water. "Have a good run?" she asks going to the sink
"Yes. Is Zeke down?" Ian inquires
Sara nods "Yes. I just put him down." She turns on the water washing her hands
Ian sets the bottle of water on the counter he steps up behind her. He rests his hands on either side of her "Sara"
At his close presence, Sara swallows heavily at the feeling of his body so close to hers. "Ian" she whispers feeling her body respond.
Ian slides one arm around her waist holding her close. He presses his lips to her neck inhaling her scent. He presses light kisses to her neck and shoulder. Slowly he slides his hand up her shirt gently caressing her stomach hearing her inhale sharply, he speaks "Being near you is the only time I do not think of what I am, of what I have done."
"Ian." She whispers then gasps as he unbuttons her jeans and slowly slides her zipper down. (NC17 version http://www.voy.com/39259/ )
Ian kisses her lightly then shifts off her settling beside her. He cups her cheek.
Sara gives him a faint smile.
"I wish you would come back with us."
"Ian can we please not talk about it." She sits up pulling her knees to her chest.
Ian sits up pressing a light kiss to her neck wrapping his arms around her.
Sara leans into him turning her head she brushes her lips over his. She turns taking his face between her hands as the kiss intensifies.
As her tongue caresses his Ian lies back down with Sara partially a top him. "Sara" he whispers stroking her cheek with his thumb their lips millimeters apart. He groans as he feels her tongue lick his lower lip. He captures her lips in a searing kiss their tongues dueling.
Sara sighs in pleasure then breaks the kiss resting her forehead against his cheek.
Ian wraps his arms around Sara holding her close as he pulls the covers over them.
EARLY AFTERNOON As she sits on the couch, Sara smiles at the sight of Ian on the floor playing with Zeke. She absently touches the stone 'He is so good with Zeke.' She smiles faintly 'I guess part of me always knew he'd be a good Dad.'
As Zeke grins, Ian finds himself unable to keep from smiling back. He watches as Zeke crawls over to the coffee table and slowly pulls himself onto his feet.
Zeke grins around his pacifier pounding the coffee table laughing. Suddenly he finds himself off balance and falling backwards on the floor.
Sara watches concerned and sighs in relief when Zeke suddenly laughs and starts clapping his hands while bouncing happily. "Well he's in a good mood."
"He definitely didn't get that from you." Ian leans back against the couch.
At Ian's teasing tone, Sara shifts so her head is over close to Ian's, "Did you just tease me?"
Ian turns his head his lips inches from Sara's "Stated a fact."
"I don't see you as a cheerful person first thing in the morning." She brushes her lips against his, "So are you a cheerful person in the morning? Or ever?"
"He always wanted silence when I was growing up so emotional reactions were not allowed."
"Unless it was from him." She says bitterly.
Ian nods caressing her cheek "As for anyone to know what I'm like first thing in the morning," he rubs his thumb across her lower lip "you are the only person who has ever been in the position to know." He admits then leans in kissing her lightly he pulls back when he hears a muffled thump. He looks over to see Zeke sitting next to a table a large pile of magazines scattered around him. He gives Sara a slight smile then stands going over he picks up Zeke.
Sara lies on the couch watching as Ian sets Zeke back down with his toys as he picks up the fallen magazines. She stands picking Zeke up she kisses the boy's cheek "Are you trying to annoy your Daddy?" she laughs as Zeke waves his hands.
Ian is about to retort when his phone rings. Giving her an apologetic look, he grabs the phone off the table "Yes? Mrs. Ellis."
Sara notices Zeke looking at the sliding glass door leading to the balcony. She opens it stepping out chuckling at the wide-eyed look on Zeke's face. "You like this huh baby."
"Everything here is going OK." Ian says watching Sara stand on the balcony with Zeke in her arms.
"How is Ezekiel?" Mrs. Ellis inquires.
"He's good."
"Good. Now there was an incident at Vorschlag."
"What kind of incident?"
"Well the security secretary, Bethany Snyder, was killed sometime last night."
Ian sighs rubbing the back of his neck "How?" he asks.
"From what I was told she was shot and her body was found this morning. The police stopped by to speak with you."
"Which ones?"
"Detectives Woo and McCartey. I told them that you would be home tomorrow."
"Call them and tell them that I will stop by their office tomorrow. Have my car brought to the airport as well. The driver can bring Zeke home and I can head over to the Precinct and the office and deal with this."
"Anything else?"
"No."
"How are you doing Ian?" Mrs. Ellis asks concerned.
Ian sighs staring at Sara "I'm fine."
"You know I'm here when you want to talk."
"I know." Ian hangs up the phone walking out to the balcony.
Sara turns her head "Everything OK?"
Ian shakes his head standing behind her he runs his hand down Zeke's back. "One of the secretaries was killed last night. Your partner wants to speak with me when we return."
"What happened?" Sara asks.
"Mrs. Ellis didn't say much. All she said was that one of the secretaries died sometime last night and they found her this morning. I won't know anymore until I return."
Sara tilts her head in agreement looking at Zeke who wiggles in her arms "You want down huh?" She walks into the room setting Zeke in the playpen with his toys. She rejoins Ian on the balcony "What are you thinking it is?"
"The woman who was killed, Bethany Snyder, came to Father for help... three years ago. Her former lover was stalking her and considering her high position in the company her superior, the head of security, brought it to Father's attention."
"Irons helped her." Sara says surprised.
Ian looks at Sara, "He did at times have a conscience my love."
"Now that's a surprise." Sara shakes her head.
Ignoring her words Ian continues, "First, Father had the lawyers take care of the legal side. But the man broke the restraining order and he was sent to jail."
"So he could be out." Sara muses.
"I suppose." He shakes his head.
Sara rests her arms on his shoulders.
Ian pulls her close "Now is not the time to think about that."
"Why not?"
Ian brushes the backs of his fingers down her cheek "Because I'm here not there." he lowers his head his lips grazing hers.
Sara smiles smoothing one of his curls back as Zeke cries from inside. Reluctantly Sara pulls away "I better go see what he wants." she kisses Ian quickly then heads inside where she finds Zeke rubbing his eyes. "Hey sweetie" she picks Zeke up hugging him "Were you lonely?"
Zeke sticks his fingers in his mouth resting his head on his mother's shoulder.
Sara looks at Ian as she presses her lips to Zeke's head and rubbing his back.
LATE NIGHT After a round of intense sex Sara sits astride Ian's lap slowly, she lifts her head from his shoulder looking at him. She brushes his hair off his face as he kisses her palm. 'He's so beautiful.'
Ian lays back pulling Sara down on his chest gently he runs his fingers through her hair as she shifts around on his chest. "I love you Sara." He whispers as he hears her breathing even out signaling she is asleep. "More than anything." He adds pressing his lips to her hair.
CHAPTER 8 (R for minor sex) EARLY MORNING Looking at Sara asleep beside him Ian smiles faintly. 'I wish she would come back. Yet I know she feels like she's doing what is for the best.' He brushes his fingers over her cheek watching as she stirs under his touch.
At the light touch, Sara slowly opens her eyes smiling sleepily at Ian. "Hi"
"Hi."
Sara stretches her arms over her head "What time is it?"
"Seven" he answers.
Sara nods shifting to her side facing Ian "When are you expected back?"
"Mrs. Ellis is going to meet us at the airport and she's going to take Zeke back to the house while I have to go meet with your Partner and take care of some things at Vorschlag."
"You have a lot going on for one day."
Ian shrugs his knuckles grazing her cheek "I would give up that whole life to be with you and Zeke."
Sara swallows heavily "I know." She runs her fingers over his bearded cheek.
"I wish we could just disappear." Ian muses.
"Like we could, someone would find us eventually. We would just end up on the run with Zeke. That's why I brought him to you, he needs a stable life, and he wouldn't get that on the run." She looks at the ceiling blinking back tears.
"Sara" Ian props himself up on his arm looking at her. He cups her cheek turning her head so she looks at him "We are stronger together than we are apart." he reminds stroking her cheek with his thumb. "Sara, we belong together, one day you'll believe that."
Sara lifts her hand to his cheek "Why are you so sure about that?"
"We have lived, loved, fought, and died side-by-side for many centuries, Sara. I know part of you remembers."
Sara shrugs "I remember seeing you briefly."
"Do you have memories of before you turned time back?"
At his question Sara flinches, "He told you."
Ian nods "He said you killed me."
Sara glances at her wrist.
*Ian standing in the middle of a warehouse his arms out as bullets hit him. 'If you see me again run.'
Standing in Irons study as a clean-shaven, Ian walks into the room with a rolled up carpet dropping it on the floor and Jake's body uncovered.
Sara running Ian through with the sword watching as he falls to the floor.*
Her eyes fly to Ian's confusion evident on her face. "He was wrong Ian, I didn't kill you. The one I did kill looked like you, but I had watched you die earlier, someone shot you. I killed the other one but he tried to kill me."
"Two of me?"
Sara shrugs "I guess."
"How do you know it wasn't me?" Ian asks curiously.
Sara stares into his eyes thinking back to what she saw in the flash. "The look in his eyes" she says after a few seconds of thought "there was nothing there but anger and hate. You have never looked at me like that; sure annoyance, disbelief, but never hate and anger."
He smoothes her hair back "I could never be angry at you or hate you." leaning down he kisses her sweetly "You and Zeke mean more to me than anything in my life." He says against her lips, "Before we met I didn't know what it was like to live, all I did was survive."
Sara leans up the last inch kissing him in return sighing happily, as he settles between her legs.
Ian settles his weight on his arms as he swiftly enters her. "Sara" he whispers.
"Ian" she breathes her eyes locked on his as she meets his slow movements. She wraps her legs around his hips her nails digging in his arms.
EARLY AFTERNOON Blinking back tears Sara hugs Zeke pressing a kiss to his head "I love you Zeke. Be good for your Daddy huh. And don't grow up too fast huh" she swallows heavily. She hands Zeke over to Ian, when he starts squirming in Ian's arms reaching for her; Sara brushes her knuckle down Zeke's cheek. "I'll see you later sweetie." She looks at Ian, "Take care of him."
"I will. Take care of yourself as well."
"Always do." She gives him a sad smile.
Ian reaches out wiping away a single tear as it slides down her cheek. "Be careful Sara."
Sara leans in kissing him lightly "I will" she steps back picking up her backpack. "Bye."
"Good luck." Ian wishes watching as Sara walks out of the suite. He looks at Zeke seeing the little boy staring at the closed door he presses his lips to Zeke's head "We'll see her again... soon."
Sara stares at the closed door "Bye" she whispers pulling her sunglasses down.
Zeke whimpers holding his arms out at the closed door.
"I know. I miss her too."
EARLY AFTERNOON: NEW YORK Ian steps off the plane with a dozing Zeke in his arms to find Mrs. Ellis waiting on the tarmac with the driver and Fredrick.
"How was your flight?" Mrs. Ellis asks as Ian joins them by the limo.
"Good."
"I informed the Detectives you were going to stop by." Mrs. Ellis informs him.
Ian nods handing Zeke to Mrs. Ellis "He had a small nap on the plane but he's ready to go down."
Mrs. Ellis nods looking at the boy who just blinks rubbing at his eye sleepily. "Well then its nap time."
Ian nods "I should be home in a couple hours." He brushes his hand over Zeke's head as it rests on Mrs. Ellis's shoulder. He turns striding to his car with a final glance at his son he gets into his car starting it he pulls away.
WHILE LATER: 11TH PRECINCT "What do you know about Bethany Snyder's death?" Jake questions as he, Danny and Ian sit in one of the empty interrogation rooms.
"Nothing but what Mrs. Ellis told me when I called yesterday." Ian answers regarding the two detectives. "All she told me was that Ms. Snyder was shot."
"How well did you know Ms. Snyder?" Danny inquires.
"Only what I have read in her employee files and the few times I met her while her former boyfriend was stalking her."
"Well the former boyfriend is still in jail." Jake states.
"Good." Ian nods "He terrorized her up until Mr. Irons stepped in and offered the company lawyers to help her."
Jake leans back in his chair "Where were you this weekend?"
Ian looks at the blond Detective "I took Ezekiel to visit with his mother in Boston."
"Can you verify that?"
"You can call the Four Seasons they can tell you I was there the whole weekend and only left the hotel twice to go for a run."
Danny lifts his brow "Do you know of any reason why Ms. Snyder would have been killed?"
"Other than her former boyfriend I do not recall any other incidents that involve her. You can check the company records if you like."
Jake nods "What exactly did Ms. Snyder do?"
"She worked as the secretary for the security department. I had little interaction with her unless something was brought to my attention by Mr. Irons."
"So you no idea if she had any enemies?" Danny asks.
"As I recall she was well liked by everyone in the office. Even Mr. Irons liked her." Ian shakes his head at the mention of Irons. "I have no idea why anyone would want her dead. You have full access to Vorschlag files and personnel."
"Thanks for coming in" Jake nods.
Ian stands "If you need anything else you know where to find me." He nods walking out of the room. As he walks a few feet, he hears Woo call his name, turning to find Danny walking towards him "Yes Detective?"
Danny stops before Ian "How is she?"
Knowing Danny is referring to Sara, Ian tilts his head slightly "She is well."
"Couldn't talk her into coming back" Danny remarks.
"I tried. But you know how stubborn she can be."
"Yeah she is that." Danny agrees "If you hear from her tell her to call me."
Ian nods "I will."
LATE NIGHT: 1111 FAUST "I better go." Sara says.
"Be careful Sara."
"I will. Tell Zeke I love him."
"I will."
"Ian..."
"Yes"
"Thanks... for everything." Sara says quickly before hanging up.
Ian hangs up his phone turning he looks at Zeke asleep in the crib. He brushes his fingers over Zeke's cheek "Your Mom loves you." He smiles as Zeke smacks his lips in his sleep reaching for the fallen pacifier offering it to Zeke, as the baby starts to suck on the pacifier Ian pulls the blanket up "Sleep well." He makes his way out of the bedroom across the hall to his own room. Once in his room Ian kicks off his boots and pulls off his sweater as he walks into the bathroom turning on the shower. Quickly he showers drying off he pulls on a pair of boxers crawling into bed. His eyes drift to the spot beside him; 'She should be here with me.' He rests his hand on the empty spot imagining Sara beside him a slow faint smile appears. 'One day she will be.' "One day" Ian mutters aloud before drifting off to sleep.