Disclaimer: I think I've made it clear by now, unless by some miracle, I
don't own this. Nor do I own the song 'The Scientist' by Coldplay.
A/N: Hello all. And I suppose goodbye from this story as well :o( * sob * We're finally at the last chapter. Thanks to =), MissyJane, cRaZyPiXiE, Moose, PITAchic, The Madhatter and Rose for reviewing the last chapter. You guys are awesome. I hope you've enjoyed reading this, as I have writing it. So as usual, R&R and ENJOY!!! - Bex
Dedication: To my sister, dead-batteries, for reading each chapter and giving me her thoughts and ideas. And to everyone who's reviewed. Thank you.
She didn't look at him when he sat down next to her. She didn't seem to even realise that he was there. Instead, she just continued to stare at the glass of water she nursed in her hands. Grissom watched her thoughtfully. She now had her closure. All of her questioned answered. Now it was his turn.
"Julian's been charged. He's going to punished for this. He'll never come near you again, I can promise that," Gris informed her softly, still receiving no response. "Are you going to tell me now?"
Jenny looked up at him; "What?"
"Everything," He responded. "The whole story."
She dropped her gaze again, back to the glass. A rippled formed in the water as a single tear hit it.
"First thing you learn when you marry into the Sinclairs," Jenny began quietly, "Is that family affairs stay within the family. They have a reputation which they never want threatened."
"Is that why you didn't say anything?"
She nodded.
"And you also knew why Ethan and Julian had fallen out?"
She nodded again.
"It was over you wasn't it?"
She didn't respond. She didn't need to. Grissom already knew the answer.
"The whole story," He pressed gently.
She twisted the glass nervously in her hands.
"Julian was hitting on me, like every other man, at his party. The one when I met Ethan. When I started dating his brother, he kept doing it, but I never noticed it then. I was too in love with Ethan to. He tried desperately to persuade Ethan and I not to marry each other, but I thought it was because of my background. I had no idea...."
Her voice trailed off as it began to falter. Her hands shook, causing waves appeared in the glass. Grissom covered a hand with his own, the shaking beneath it reduced.
"We became friends after I married Ethan," She continued, "At least I that's what I thought we were. I wanted to get along with Julian for Ethan's sake. We used to hang out and he used to help me study for my classes, but then... then he kept hitting on me. Finally, he threatened me that if I didn't sleep with him, he would tell Ethan I did, but if I did then no one would know. I was caught between my husband being told a lie and keeping a secret from him. So I told Ethan everything. My husband went ballistic and warned Julian to stay away from me..."
Her hands were shaking violently again, her emotions taking over the steadiness in her voice. She turned to look at Grissom with confused and misted eyes.
"I never thought that Julian could do something like this," She whispered. "And it's all my fault."
Grissom took the glass from her and placed it down, then wrapped his arms around her. He held her in a comforting embrace, though she no longer seemed to have any tears left to cry.
"It's not your fault Jenny," He reassured firmly. "None of this is."
She pulled back and gave him a feebly smile.
"Thank you. Thank you for everything."
He gave her a slightly wider one, "Don't worry about it. Anyway, I owed you."
She followed his gaze across the room. She could see Catherine standing there, watching them from a distance. Jenny turned back to Gris with a wider smile.
"You told her then?"
He nodded, "Yep."
"And?"
"You were right."
She gave him an amused 'told-you-so' smile.
"Don't be a stranger ok," Grissom told her. "If you need...anything, just call us. We're all here for you ok?"
"Yeah," She promised.
She gave him another hug of thanks.
"Jenny?"
They both turned to face the owner of the voice. Brit stood in front of them. His eyes inspected Jenny, his face a mask of concern. He hobbled towards her and she walked to meet him halfway. Gently, he touched her soft cheek with a rough hand. Unable to control them anymore, tears fell down Jenny's face. She could never hide anything from Brit.
"Jenny, it's ok," He whispered softly, embracing her. "Shhhh. It's ok. It's all right now. I'm here. I'm here."
Grissom didn't realise that Catherine had walked beside him until she slipped her hand into his. They watched the pair silently, like the tears pouring down Jenny's face. Both knowing the power which brought lonely souls together, binding them by their need for companionship.
They watched Brit comforting Jenny, embracing her like the father she'd lost. And Jenny embraced him back, like the daughter he'd lost.
~*~5 days later~*~
~ Come up to meet you, Tell you I'm sorry, You don't know how lovely you are. I had to find you, Tell you I need you, Tell you I set you apart.~
The skies of the Sin City were grey, as if they were also in mourning. Sara squeezed Nick's hand, grateful that he was with her. The couple and Warrick stared at the sea of people in black, crowded round the freshly dug grave. The final resting place of Ethan Sinclair: 'A man who always worked hard to achieve his goals. Beloved son and husband. May his soul R.I.P.'
~Tell me your secrets, And nurse me your questions, Oh, let's go back to the start.~
They spotted Jennifer Sinclair dress completely in black. Her face was stained with tears and her left cheek supported a bruise under a layer of foundation. Even now, her elegance remained. Just like her strength.
~Runnin' in circles, Comin' up tails,
Heads on the science apart.~
Through out the ceremony, Robert and Tiffany Sinclair had kept away from her. Shunning her. Blaming her for the loss of both of his sons. She was left with Brit and Estella to provide the support she needed. Holding her hands and acting as her strength as she said her final goodbyes.
~Nobody said it was easy, It's such a shame for us to part. Nobody said it was easy, No one ever said it would be this hard.
Oh, take me back to the start.~
Now the funeral was over. Jenny had just finished speaking to two other mourners, when she spotted the trio. She walked over to them, embracing Sara first, then the two men after her.
~I was just guessing, The numbers and figures, Pulling the puzzles apart. Questions of science, Science and progress, Do not speak as loud as my heart~
"How are you holding up?" Warrick asked, keeping a comforting hand on her arm.
"I'm doing ok," She replied. "Thanks for coming. And thank you for the beautiful wreath." She nodded towards their one which lay on the grave.
"That's ok," Nick said.
"Sorry Grissom and Catherine can't be here," Sara apologised for them. "They had to be in court."
"It's ok," Jenny insisted. "I never expected Grissom to come anyway. He seems the type to want to keep his work and privet life separate and I understand that."
"We're sorry for your loss," Sara repeated the words Jenny heard from hundreds of people.
She just nodded, her sad eyes looking away.
~Tell me you love me, Come back and hold me, Oh, when I rush to the start. Runnin' in circles, Chasin' tails, Comin' back as we are.~
"If you need us, to talk or anything, don't hesitate to ring us. We're here for you Jen," Nick reminded her.
"I know."
"You still want me to help you study for your exam?" Warrick asked.
She nodded, "Yes. Please."
She turned to look at Brit after he'd called for her.
"I should go. Thanks for coming."
She embraced them each again, then, the first minuet smile touched her lips that day.
"You should come over for a meal when I've sorted out my apartment."
"Sure. That would be great."
"I'll see you," She said before turning to join the mass of ebony again.
~Nobody said it was easy, Oh, it's such a shame for us to part. Nobody said it was easy, No one ever said it would be so hard. I'm goin' back to the start.~
~*~2 and a half months later~*~
A half smile touched Grissom's lips as he watered his favourite plant in his office. It was the one Jenny had given him as a thank you present. He still kept the note which was attached to it by the pot; 'Sorry, they were all out of spiders. Thanks for everything ~ Jenny'
He wondered how she was. He knew she'd just taken her final exams, which Warrick had constantly reminded him about. Warrick had help Jenny to revise for them and had become very attached to her over the past months. Maybe more then he should be.
Jenny was going to pass. There wasn't a doubt in Gris' mind about that. And when she did, he was going to hire her and make her an official part of their 'family'.
The phone's ringing broke through his thoughts. He set the watering can down and answered it.
"Grissom."
"Hi."
The voice brought another smile to his lips; "Hey Jenny. How are you?"
"I'm better. I'm doing much better. I've just taken my final exams."
"I know. Warrick told me."
"Oh. How are you?"
"I'm good. We're all good."
"Good," She repeated. "Look what are you guys doing Thursday after noon, say a few hours before work?"
"Nothing that I know of. Why?"
"It's just I was wondering if you and the rest of the team want to come over for a meal before your shift?"
"Sure. I'll ask the rest of the team, but I'm sure it's fine."
"Great," He could hear the happiness in her voice, "I'll see you then."
"I'll see you then." He repeated before hanging up.
~*~*~*~*~
Grissom continued the walk to Laramie Apartments with a bottle of wine in one hand and Catherine in the other. Greg had told everyone he came across what he'd witnessed and before long, it had spread like wild fire. They had no chance of denying it, so instead the announced that officially they were a couple. Thus loosing Grissom's right to lecture or disapprove about Nick and Sara. But Catherine was worth that sacrifice.
She blushed slightly when she noticed him staring at her.
"What are you looking at Mr Grissom?"
"The most beautiful woman I know Miss Willows," He replied, brushing his lips against hers.
A smartly dressed doorman held the front door of the apartments open with a welcoming smile. Jenny had sold the rest of the apartment block, except for her apartment. Ironically, they had been brought by Robert Sinclair. Now the block, which was empty last time they were there, was filled with life.
They walked into the lift. Grissom wrapped an arm around Catherine as he pressed the button and the lift travelled to the top floor.
Gris led the way down the small corridor to the lone door. They had agreed, along with Nick and Sara, not to act 'all married' around Jenny. Gris didn't want to remind her of Ethan, causing her more pain and sorrow. He tapped on the door and they waited for her to answer.
The door opened a few moments later revealing Jenny. She smiled brightly at them, embracing them and kissing a cheek as they entered. She was dressed in an elegant red dress, her hair pinned up with chopsticks. She was definitely happier since they'd last seen her.
"Wow, I feel under dressed," Cath commented.
Jenny laughed, "Don't worry about it. I haven't had a chance to dress up in a while, so I've used this as an excuse. Go, sit down and make yourselves at home."
She interacted them towards the lounge, taking the bottle of wine into the kitchen, whilst the two CSIs made their way over to the couches. This place was a lot different since the last time they'd been here. The walls had been painted and the space filled with modern furniture and items. They found Warrick sitting, drinking a glass of wine on one of the new couches.
"Hey guys."
"Hi."
"Hey Warrick. When did you get here?" Catherine asked.
"An hour before you two. I've been helping Jen get things ready. Are you guy gonna sit down or what?"
The two older CSIs sat down on opposite ends of the other couch. Catherine heard Warrick sigh and Gris glared at him when he rolled his eyes.
"Well here you go," Jenny said as she walked back over with two glasses of wine in her hands.
She stopped when she spied the couple on the couch. Eyeing Grissom first, then Cath, then the gap, she turned to Warrick. The pair exchanged a look and Jenny rolled her eyes this time, both of them sharing the same smirk.
"Look you don't have to act like you're not a couple around me," She stated. "I'm fine, really I am. Anyway, I would be more upset if you didn't."
Grissom and Catherine looked at each other. Without another word, Cath slid across the gap, allowing herself to snuggle up to Gris with his arm around her.
"Much better," Jenny laughed as she handed them a glass each.
Catherine gratefully sipped the wine, while Grissom just eyed the glass and gave Jenny a look.
"I really don't know..." He began but she cut him off.
"Look Gris, you've got over four hours till you need to be at work. In your hand you hold one unit of alcohol, which will be out of your blood stream in two hours, so you're fine."
He raised and eyebrow only to met by her stubborn 'you-know-I'm-right' look. He sighed and took a sip, causing her to smile triumphantly.
"This place looks fantastic," Cath complimented.
Jenny chuckled, "There's still a whole lot of mess hidden behind those doors."
"How're you doing?" Gris decided to ask, knowing that someone would sooner or later.
Her smile reduced to a faint one, "I'm coping. I'm doing much better thanks."
She picked up a wine glass filled with water and took a sip. Water not wine.
'Curious,' Grissom thought as he studied her carefully.
Something about her was different. It wasn't that fact that she was happier, it was something else he couldn't quite put his finger on. Something about her had changed, but he didn't know what.
There was a knock on the door again and Jenny walked over to let Sara and Nick in. They stepped inside, keeping a distance between them. Then the duo spotted Grissom and Catherine together on the couch and confusion took over their faces.
"Don't worry guys. This isn't a couple free zone," Jenny teased.
"Good," Nick smiled, wrapping his arms around Sara's waist and planting a kiss on her cheek.
The other's burst out laughing and Sara couldn't help but blush. The teasing and conversation was broken up by the beeper in the kitchen.
"Sound's like it's done," Jenny announced. "You guys can go on through and sit down."
"I'll come give you a hand," Warrick offered and followed her into the kitchen.
The others walked through the arch and over to the wooden dining table. Whilst the others sat down, Grissom inspected the mantelpiece. There were a few candles and ornaments on it, but it was the photo frames that caught his eye.
First was the one that used to be in the study in Jenny's old home. The other he'd never seen before. It was of a girl, around 12 years old, who had Jenny's hair and eyes. Standing behind the girl, with a loving arm around her shoulders and tenderly kissing her head, was a man in his late 30's. He had a dark stubbly beard, hansom face, the same hair as Jenny's worn in a short cut and her sparkling green eyes. It was her father, Mathew Stone. Grissom stared at the two pictures which stood side by side: one of a man who had justice for his death, the other of a man who never would.
"Hope you like mushroom risotto," Jenny said cheerily as she walked over carrying plates of food, followed by Warrick who was also carrying plates.
Grissom smiled at her and sat down next to Catherine. Jenny and Warrick handed out the plates then took their seat at the table next to each other.
"This smells great," Nick said looking carefully at the meal.
Jenny raised an eyebrow, "You don't sound very convinced Mr Stokes. I did cook all my meals before I was married you know."
He laughed along with the others and began to tuck in.
"Mmm. This is amazing," Sara commented.
"Yeah," Cath agreed. "If you're a good a CSI as you are a cook, the bad guys don't stand a chance."
Warrick chuckled, "Yeah."
Now Nick gave Jenny the same inquiring look she'd given him.
"Are you trying to bribe your way into getting a job?" He questioned her with mock suspicious.
"Well if she is, it's worked. I'm giving her a job the second her results come through," Grissom stated.
The other laughed at this comment, but Jenny remained silent.
"I won't be joining the team when I get my results back," Jenny informed them quietly.
They all stopped eating and stared at her. For so long she'd worked hard to become a CSI and now she didn't want that anymore?
"Why?" Grissom asked, confused and saddened by the sudden change of heart.
"Because I'm pregnant with Ethan's child," She announced softly.
The silence, which had settled, made her words sound a lot louder then they were. The minute dragged by, as everyone remained frozen with their eyes fixed on Jenny. Then Catherine got up and walked over to her.
"Congratulations," She beamed hugging Jenny. "How far along are you?"
"Bout three months," Jenny replied returning the hug, a look of relief flooding her face.
Grissom watched as the other CSIs got up and followed Catherine's suit; embracing Jenny and giving her words of congratulations.
'The hidden truth,' Grissom mused watching them, 'is the one we never see coming. Maybe we've just ignored all the warning signs or maybe there wasn't any in the first place. Either way, it comes as a huge shock to us. And that's when we need friends and family to be there for us, to remind us that no matter what they care and will support us.'
Everyone else had congratulated Jenny about the news, now Grissom was the only one left who hadn't. Jenny looked at him like an anxious daughter awaiting her father's approval. He slowly stood up and walked over to her. His blue eyes were held by her emerald ones.
"I'm happy for you Jenny. It's brilliant news," He told her smiling as he embraced her.
He felt her body relax and she hugged him back. He looked over her shoulder and his eyes meet the smiling face of Ethan's, which would forever remain a memory caught on film.
'Don't worry Ethan,' He told him silently, 'Jenny's has friends,' He looked briefly at the others, 'she has family. And we're going to always be there and take good care of her and your child. I promise.'
~*~The End~*~
A/N: Well there you have it. I've been thinking about writing a sequel, bringing back characters like Jenny and Brit. Please tell me what you think about that idea and what you thoughts of the last chapter are. For one last time for this story, HIT THAT BUTTON NOW!!!! :o)
Thanks to all who've reviewed this: MissyJane(x13), The Madhatter(x12), Moose(x9), PITAchic(x7), pdhtgal(x5), AetherIris(x4), jhfortier(x4), JMNchik21(x4), shondie(x4), loco(x3), cRaZyPiXiE(x3), A Bloom(x2), Pagan(x2), =)(x2), Sara Sidle Stokes, Melindotty, me, Emily, csiAngel, JulietNickluver, d-kronk, Chosen Rogue, Jessica, jnp, Emmy, csichicagolove, Brianna, loco, ***son, undacoveragent9, anonymous, Charming- Storm, Catherine, lil smiles and last but not least Rose.
I couldn't have done it with your reviews. Your feedback really helped and inspired me to write this, so here's a big :oD and a huge round of applauses for you guys. I hope you review my fics in future.
Bye for now - Bex (I'll be back!)
A/N: Hello all. And I suppose goodbye from this story as well :o( * sob * We're finally at the last chapter. Thanks to =), MissyJane, cRaZyPiXiE, Moose, PITAchic, The Madhatter and Rose for reviewing the last chapter. You guys are awesome. I hope you've enjoyed reading this, as I have writing it. So as usual, R&R and ENJOY!!! - Bex
Dedication: To my sister, dead-batteries, for reading each chapter and giving me her thoughts and ideas. And to everyone who's reviewed. Thank you.
She didn't look at him when he sat down next to her. She didn't seem to even realise that he was there. Instead, she just continued to stare at the glass of water she nursed in her hands. Grissom watched her thoughtfully. She now had her closure. All of her questioned answered. Now it was his turn.
"Julian's been charged. He's going to punished for this. He'll never come near you again, I can promise that," Gris informed her softly, still receiving no response. "Are you going to tell me now?"
Jenny looked up at him; "What?"
"Everything," He responded. "The whole story."
She dropped her gaze again, back to the glass. A rippled formed in the water as a single tear hit it.
"First thing you learn when you marry into the Sinclairs," Jenny began quietly, "Is that family affairs stay within the family. They have a reputation which they never want threatened."
"Is that why you didn't say anything?"
She nodded.
"And you also knew why Ethan and Julian had fallen out?"
She nodded again.
"It was over you wasn't it?"
She didn't respond. She didn't need to. Grissom already knew the answer.
"The whole story," He pressed gently.
She twisted the glass nervously in her hands.
"Julian was hitting on me, like every other man, at his party. The one when I met Ethan. When I started dating his brother, he kept doing it, but I never noticed it then. I was too in love with Ethan to. He tried desperately to persuade Ethan and I not to marry each other, but I thought it was because of my background. I had no idea...."
Her voice trailed off as it began to falter. Her hands shook, causing waves appeared in the glass. Grissom covered a hand with his own, the shaking beneath it reduced.
"We became friends after I married Ethan," She continued, "At least I that's what I thought we were. I wanted to get along with Julian for Ethan's sake. We used to hang out and he used to help me study for my classes, but then... then he kept hitting on me. Finally, he threatened me that if I didn't sleep with him, he would tell Ethan I did, but if I did then no one would know. I was caught between my husband being told a lie and keeping a secret from him. So I told Ethan everything. My husband went ballistic and warned Julian to stay away from me..."
Her hands were shaking violently again, her emotions taking over the steadiness in her voice. She turned to look at Grissom with confused and misted eyes.
"I never thought that Julian could do something like this," She whispered. "And it's all my fault."
Grissom took the glass from her and placed it down, then wrapped his arms around her. He held her in a comforting embrace, though she no longer seemed to have any tears left to cry.
"It's not your fault Jenny," He reassured firmly. "None of this is."
She pulled back and gave him a feebly smile.
"Thank you. Thank you for everything."
He gave her a slightly wider one, "Don't worry about it. Anyway, I owed you."
She followed his gaze across the room. She could see Catherine standing there, watching them from a distance. Jenny turned back to Gris with a wider smile.
"You told her then?"
He nodded, "Yep."
"And?"
"You were right."
She gave him an amused 'told-you-so' smile.
"Don't be a stranger ok," Grissom told her. "If you need...anything, just call us. We're all here for you ok?"
"Yeah," She promised.
She gave him another hug of thanks.
"Jenny?"
They both turned to face the owner of the voice. Brit stood in front of them. His eyes inspected Jenny, his face a mask of concern. He hobbled towards her and she walked to meet him halfway. Gently, he touched her soft cheek with a rough hand. Unable to control them anymore, tears fell down Jenny's face. She could never hide anything from Brit.
"Jenny, it's ok," He whispered softly, embracing her. "Shhhh. It's ok. It's all right now. I'm here. I'm here."
Grissom didn't realise that Catherine had walked beside him until she slipped her hand into his. They watched the pair silently, like the tears pouring down Jenny's face. Both knowing the power which brought lonely souls together, binding them by their need for companionship.
They watched Brit comforting Jenny, embracing her like the father she'd lost. And Jenny embraced him back, like the daughter he'd lost.
~*~5 days later~*~
~ Come up to meet you, Tell you I'm sorry, You don't know how lovely you are. I had to find you, Tell you I need you, Tell you I set you apart.~
The skies of the Sin City were grey, as if they were also in mourning. Sara squeezed Nick's hand, grateful that he was with her. The couple and Warrick stared at the sea of people in black, crowded round the freshly dug grave. The final resting place of Ethan Sinclair: 'A man who always worked hard to achieve his goals. Beloved son and husband. May his soul R.I.P.'
~Tell me your secrets, And nurse me your questions, Oh, let's go back to the start.~
They spotted Jennifer Sinclair dress completely in black. Her face was stained with tears and her left cheek supported a bruise under a layer of foundation. Even now, her elegance remained. Just like her strength.
~Runnin' in circles, Comin' up tails,
Heads on the science apart.~
Through out the ceremony, Robert and Tiffany Sinclair had kept away from her. Shunning her. Blaming her for the loss of both of his sons. She was left with Brit and Estella to provide the support she needed. Holding her hands and acting as her strength as she said her final goodbyes.
~Nobody said it was easy, It's such a shame for us to part. Nobody said it was easy, No one ever said it would be this hard.
Oh, take me back to the start.~
Now the funeral was over. Jenny had just finished speaking to two other mourners, when she spotted the trio. She walked over to them, embracing Sara first, then the two men after her.
~I was just guessing, The numbers and figures, Pulling the puzzles apart. Questions of science, Science and progress, Do not speak as loud as my heart~
"How are you holding up?" Warrick asked, keeping a comforting hand on her arm.
"I'm doing ok," She replied. "Thanks for coming. And thank you for the beautiful wreath." She nodded towards their one which lay on the grave.
"That's ok," Nick said.
"Sorry Grissom and Catherine can't be here," Sara apologised for them. "They had to be in court."
"It's ok," Jenny insisted. "I never expected Grissom to come anyway. He seems the type to want to keep his work and privet life separate and I understand that."
"We're sorry for your loss," Sara repeated the words Jenny heard from hundreds of people.
She just nodded, her sad eyes looking away.
~Tell me you love me, Come back and hold me, Oh, when I rush to the start. Runnin' in circles, Chasin' tails, Comin' back as we are.~
"If you need us, to talk or anything, don't hesitate to ring us. We're here for you Jen," Nick reminded her.
"I know."
"You still want me to help you study for your exam?" Warrick asked.
She nodded, "Yes. Please."
She turned to look at Brit after he'd called for her.
"I should go. Thanks for coming."
She embraced them each again, then, the first minuet smile touched her lips that day.
"You should come over for a meal when I've sorted out my apartment."
"Sure. That would be great."
"I'll see you," She said before turning to join the mass of ebony again.
~Nobody said it was easy, Oh, it's such a shame for us to part. Nobody said it was easy, No one ever said it would be so hard. I'm goin' back to the start.~
~*~2 and a half months later~*~
A half smile touched Grissom's lips as he watered his favourite plant in his office. It was the one Jenny had given him as a thank you present. He still kept the note which was attached to it by the pot; 'Sorry, they were all out of spiders. Thanks for everything ~ Jenny'
He wondered how she was. He knew she'd just taken her final exams, which Warrick had constantly reminded him about. Warrick had help Jenny to revise for them and had become very attached to her over the past months. Maybe more then he should be.
Jenny was going to pass. There wasn't a doubt in Gris' mind about that. And when she did, he was going to hire her and make her an official part of their 'family'.
The phone's ringing broke through his thoughts. He set the watering can down and answered it.
"Grissom."
"Hi."
The voice brought another smile to his lips; "Hey Jenny. How are you?"
"I'm better. I'm doing much better. I've just taken my final exams."
"I know. Warrick told me."
"Oh. How are you?"
"I'm good. We're all good."
"Good," She repeated. "Look what are you guys doing Thursday after noon, say a few hours before work?"
"Nothing that I know of. Why?"
"It's just I was wondering if you and the rest of the team want to come over for a meal before your shift?"
"Sure. I'll ask the rest of the team, but I'm sure it's fine."
"Great," He could hear the happiness in her voice, "I'll see you then."
"I'll see you then." He repeated before hanging up.
~*~*~*~*~
Grissom continued the walk to Laramie Apartments with a bottle of wine in one hand and Catherine in the other. Greg had told everyone he came across what he'd witnessed and before long, it had spread like wild fire. They had no chance of denying it, so instead the announced that officially they were a couple. Thus loosing Grissom's right to lecture or disapprove about Nick and Sara. But Catherine was worth that sacrifice.
She blushed slightly when she noticed him staring at her.
"What are you looking at Mr Grissom?"
"The most beautiful woman I know Miss Willows," He replied, brushing his lips against hers.
A smartly dressed doorman held the front door of the apartments open with a welcoming smile. Jenny had sold the rest of the apartment block, except for her apartment. Ironically, they had been brought by Robert Sinclair. Now the block, which was empty last time they were there, was filled with life.
They walked into the lift. Grissom wrapped an arm around Catherine as he pressed the button and the lift travelled to the top floor.
Gris led the way down the small corridor to the lone door. They had agreed, along with Nick and Sara, not to act 'all married' around Jenny. Gris didn't want to remind her of Ethan, causing her more pain and sorrow. He tapped on the door and they waited for her to answer.
The door opened a few moments later revealing Jenny. She smiled brightly at them, embracing them and kissing a cheek as they entered. She was dressed in an elegant red dress, her hair pinned up with chopsticks. She was definitely happier since they'd last seen her.
"Wow, I feel under dressed," Cath commented.
Jenny laughed, "Don't worry about it. I haven't had a chance to dress up in a while, so I've used this as an excuse. Go, sit down and make yourselves at home."
She interacted them towards the lounge, taking the bottle of wine into the kitchen, whilst the two CSIs made their way over to the couches. This place was a lot different since the last time they'd been here. The walls had been painted and the space filled with modern furniture and items. They found Warrick sitting, drinking a glass of wine on one of the new couches.
"Hey guys."
"Hi."
"Hey Warrick. When did you get here?" Catherine asked.
"An hour before you two. I've been helping Jen get things ready. Are you guy gonna sit down or what?"
The two older CSIs sat down on opposite ends of the other couch. Catherine heard Warrick sigh and Gris glared at him when he rolled his eyes.
"Well here you go," Jenny said as she walked back over with two glasses of wine in her hands.
She stopped when she spied the couple on the couch. Eyeing Grissom first, then Cath, then the gap, she turned to Warrick. The pair exchanged a look and Jenny rolled her eyes this time, both of them sharing the same smirk.
"Look you don't have to act like you're not a couple around me," She stated. "I'm fine, really I am. Anyway, I would be more upset if you didn't."
Grissom and Catherine looked at each other. Without another word, Cath slid across the gap, allowing herself to snuggle up to Gris with his arm around her.
"Much better," Jenny laughed as she handed them a glass each.
Catherine gratefully sipped the wine, while Grissom just eyed the glass and gave Jenny a look.
"I really don't know..." He began but she cut him off.
"Look Gris, you've got over four hours till you need to be at work. In your hand you hold one unit of alcohol, which will be out of your blood stream in two hours, so you're fine."
He raised and eyebrow only to met by her stubborn 'you-know-I'm-right' look. He sighed and took a sip, causing her to smile triumphantly.
"This place looks fantastic," Cath complimented.
Jenny chuckled, "There's still a whole lot of mess hidden behind those doors."
"How're you doing?" Gris decided to ask, knowing that someone would sooner or later.
Her smile reduced to a faint one, "I'm coping. I'm doing much better thanks."
She picked up a wine glass filled with water and took a sip. Water not wine.
'Curious,' Grissom thought as he studied her carefully.
Something about her was different. It wasn't that fact that she was happier, it was something else he couldn't quite put his finger on. Something about her had changed, but he didn't know what.
There was a knock on the door again and Jenny walked over to let Sara and Nick in. They stepped inside, keeping a distance between them. Then the duo spotted Grissom and Catherine together on the couch and confusion took over their faces.
"Don't worry guys. This isn't a couple free zone," Jenny teased.
"Good," Nick smiled, wrapping his arms around Sara's waist and planting a kiss on her cheek.
The other's burst out laughing and Sara couldn't help but blush. The teasing and conversation was broken up by the beeper in the kitchen.
"Sound's like it's done," Jenny announced. "You guys can go on through and sit down."
"I'll come give you a hand," Warrick offered and followed her into the kitchen.
The others walked through the arch and over to the wooden dining table. Whilst the others sat down, Grissom inspected the mantelpiece. There were a few candles and ornaments on it, but it was the photo frames that caught his eye.
First was the one that used to be in the study in Jenny's old home. The other he'd never seen before. It was of a girl, around 12 years old, who had Jenny's hair and eyes. Standing behind the girl, with a loving arm around her shoulders and tenderly kissing her head, was a man in his late 30's. He had a dark stubbly beard, hansom face, the same hair as Jenny's worn in a short cut and her sparkling green eyes. It was her father, Mathew Stone. Grissom stared at the two pictures which stood side by side: one of a man who had justice for his death, the other of a man who never would.
"Hope you like mushroom risotto," Jenny said cheerily as she walked over carrying plates of food, followed by Warrick who was also carrying plates.
Grissom smiled at her and sat down next to Catherine. Jenny and Warrick handed out the plates then took their seat at the table next to each other.
"This smells great," Nick said looking carefully at the meal.
Jenny raised an eyebrow, "You don't sound very convinced Mr Stokes. I did cook all my meals before I was married you know."
He laughed along with the others and began to tuck in.
"Mmm. This is amazing," Sara commented.
"Yeah," Cath agreed. "If you're a good a CSI as you are a cook, the bad guys don't stand a chance."
Warrick chuckled, "Yeah."
Now Nick gave Jenny the same inquiring look she'd given him.
"Are you trying to bribe your way into getting a job?" He questioned her with mock suspicious.
"Well if she is, it's worked. I'm giving her a job the second her results come through," Grissom stated.
The other laughed at this comment, but Jenny remained silent.
"I won't be joining the team when I get my results back," Jenny informed them quietly.
They all stopped eating and stared at her. For so long she'd worked hard to become a CSI and now she didn't want that anymore?
"Why?" Grissom asked, confused and saddened by the sudden change of heart.
"Because I'm pregnant with Ethan's child," She announced softly.
The silence, which had settled, made her words sound a lot louder then they were. The minute dragged by, as everyone remained frozen with their eyes fixed on Jenny. Then Catherine got up and walked over to her.
"Congratulations," She beamed hugging Jenny. "How far along are you?"
"Bout three months," Jenny replied returning the hug, a look of relief flooding her face.
Grissom watched as the other CSIs got up and followed Catherine's suit; embracing Jenny and giving her words of congratulations.
'The hidden truth,' Grissom mused watching them, 'is the one we never see coming. Maybe we've just ignored all the warning signs or maybe there wasn't any in the first place. Either way, it comes as a huge shock to us. And that's when we need friends and family to be there for us, to remind us that no matter what they care and will support us.'
Everyone else had congratulated Jenny about the news, now Grissom was the only one left who hadn't. Jenny looked at him like an anxious daughter awaiting her father's approval. He slowly stood up and walked over to her. His blue eyes were held by her emerald ones.
"I'm happy for you Jenny. It's brilliant news," He told her smiling as he embraced her.
He felt her body relax and she hugged him back. He looked over her shoulder and his eyes meet the smiling face of Ethan's, which would forever remain a memory caught on film.
'Don't worry Ethan,' He told him silently, 'Jenny's has friends,' He looked briefly at the others, 'she has family. And we're going to always be there and take good care of her and your child. I promise.'
~*~The End~*~
A/N: Well there you have it. I've been thinking about writing a sequel, bringing back characters like Jenny and Brit. Please tell me what you think about that idea and what you thoughts of the last chapter are. For one last time for this story, HIT THAT BUTTON NOW!!!! :o)
Thanks to all who've reviewed this: MissyJane(x13), The Madhatter(x12), Moose(x9), PITAchic(x7), pdhtgal(x5), AetherIris(x4), jhfortier(x4), JMNchik21(x4), shondie(x4), loco(x3), cRaZyPiXiE(x3), A Bloom(x2), Pagan(x2), =)(x2), Sara Sidle Stokes, Melindotty, me, Emily, csiAngel, JulietNickluver, d-kronk, Chosen Rogue, Jessica, jnp, Emmy, csichicagolove, Brianna, loco, ***son, undacoveragent9, anonymous, Charming- Storm, Catherine, lil smiles and last but not least Rose.
I couldn't have done it with your reviews. Your feedback really helped and inspired me to write this, so here's a big :oD and a huge round of applauses for you guys. I hope you review my fics in future.
Bye for now - Bex (I'll be back!)