Disclaimers: Refer to Chapter 1 - Michelle
A/N - Alright, for everyone who's reading this right now, THANK YOU. Thank you for reading this far, and for sticking with my tale of love, humor, family and adventure - or just pure sap. It's been and absolute blast writing another fic, and I hope to write others soon. Thank you so much *kisses and hugs* to everyone who has reviewed and have carried me out of a day's slumps to write this stuff. I'm happy that so many people enjoyed it, and I just loved the feedback. Thank you so very much. Well, this is the absolute last chapter *sniff* but I hope that you are content with the story's resolution. Please drop me a note whether or not you liked it. Sorry for the late posting, no excuses, just sorry. Anyway, now I'll leave you to read the ending of the saga.
~*~
"This is nice," Sara said. About 30 minutes had passed since their last words.
"I'm glad that you finally decided to talk," Joe replied.
"I'm sorry, I'm just trying to think things through," Sara apologized.
"I understand."
Sara looked at the man, questioning the look he wore, a look of sheer stillness, not emptiness, just serene.
"Do you come here often," she asked.
"Every chance I get," he replied.
"That's the great thing about Texas, you can travel from the city to the country, the old to the new, and still feel the same – be the same," he answered cryptically.
"This is a good home," Sara commented.
"Well, it is definitely where my heart is," Joe replied.
For hours, both sat in the comfort of the boat, thinking, caught up in the lake's peacefulness. The fish wasn't bad either, every now and then, they would reel in something. With time, they hadn't really paid attention to the moving sun, they only sitting, taking in the scenery. It was just before sunrise that they realize the time, knowing that they had to return to the marina. Both knew that this escape was temporary, and that they soon would have to face the realities they ran from.
Upon reaching the marina, both hopped out of the both, fish in tow.
"Thank you," Sara said softly. Joe turned his attention away from the trunk of his truck, and faced Sara.
"Anytime you're in Texas," Joe replied, the tone of his voice deepened by his accent. He smiled, and likewise, Sara smiled.
"Everything will be fine," Joe assured, pulling Sara into a soft hug.
'I hope so,' Sara's mind thought. They released each other from their embrace, Joe looked at Sara and bid her goodbye – to take care. He was sincere in his words, deeply concerned at the distraught look Sara portrayed earlier. But the water made her look calmer, more understanding, and that certainly put his mind at ease. He smiled a finally time, and jumped into his truck, waving at Sara – who still stood in the parking lot.
The sky was a dark blue, with grey tints and orange streaks. The sky was almost dark, and the lake looked magnificent, burning, but the water remained calm.
~*~
He drove for hours, looking for Sara. Searching.
He canvassed the local places that would have interested Sara, checking flight bookings to Las Vegas, local gas stations, and dreadfully checked the hospitals as well. Nothing.
The day was wearing thin, and he knew that he had to find her, to tell her, he couldn't lose her. The sun was about to set, and he didn't know were to go, his mind just in shambles. He continued driving, 'north, maybe there's something there,' his mind convinced him. His journey continued, and it leaded him to the edge of the lake, he parked the truck by the lake, staring out onto the sun's reflection in the water. His mind was flooded by memories of the times he spent by this lake, contemplating life, thinking of love, escaping.
'God, it's been so long,' he thought, he watched the lake and hopped out of the truck, walking around it and onto the lake's edge.
He sat there; unmoving, silent, thinking. Staring out onto the distance.
~*~
She sat atop a rock, curled up, with arms hugging her knees and her face rested on her knees. Sara sat there, silent, thinking, looking out onto the still lake.
Nick got up from his spot, wanting to walk around, to feel the sand between his toes.
She stayed still, feeling a cool breeze flow past her, her hair waving in the wind.
He walked around the lake's edge, taking in the scenery that still thrived. He saw someone familiar, and relief washed over his body. He walked closer to the woman who sat atop a rock, hair waving in the wind. He breathed, aware of the nervousness that claimed his body.
She stayed still, thinking.
Slowly, he eased himself beside her, being silent and calm.
She felt his presence, knowing that it was Nick. A feeling of relief and at the same time, calmness came over her body.
"I didn't mean to hurt you," he murmured.
"It's just that, when Jamie left, I was lost for the longest time. Seeing her, just-" he continued, glancing at Sara's blank face.
"Seeing her, closed that part of my life. It made my head at peace, knowing that after all these years, she was alright," Nick assured.
"She will always be a part of me, a part of my past. She helped me find myself when I was lost."
"I loved her – a long time ago, she was my guide, my compass, my home. But after she left, I lost myself, I ran away,"
"But you, helped me find myself again," Nick emphasized.
"This trip made me realize the things that I missed, what I wanted and what mattered most," he paused.
"You," he continued, again looking into the face that didn't have words.
"This trip helped me find my way home, helped me find my way to you," he breathed, waiting for a reaction.
Nothing, no words, no emotion.
"Well, I've said what I wanted to say, and I guess this is my cue to leave, " Nick broke the silence, feeling dejected.
"Stay," Sara whispered, she finally broke free from her daze and looked up at him. He obeyed, sitting close to her, wanting to wrap his arms around her as the cool wind blew, but resisted the urge.
They watched the rest of the sunset in silence, words never needed to communicate what their heart held true. He stared into her warm eyes, speechless at this moment, having no words to pronounce. He reached his hand closer to her, holding her face in his hand, and turning it towards him.
She looked at him, calmness and understanding plagued her eyes. She smiled, and allowed Nick to pull her closer. She gazed at his anticipating lips, hers tingling at the thought of kissing his.
Nick never took his eyes of her, watching as she reacted to his actions, and happy that she didn't pull away. With ease and gentleness, he inched closer and closer, taking in her soft scent and warm breathe. Finally, he placed his lips against hers, letting the heat that seared through him to conform to her sweet, soft lips.
Fire.
She didn't hesitate, and allowed her lips to contact with his, they were soft, and the tingle in her lips intensified. Sara felt a soft smile curve from Nick's lips as both of them pulled apart. Their cheeks hot, and body warm and stinging. They both smiled at each other's cheeks, happy that the moment was as pleasing as they had hopped, even more. Sara slipped her hand into Nick's and held it as they sat quietly, never wanting to leave each other's company.
There were no words that both wanted to share, silence was precious, and they reveled in it. Who needed words, when someone you loved shared a moment like this?
~*~
"Ok, this is the plan," Carrie urged.
"We all know that there's something going on with Nick and Sara, correct?" she continued. Everyone nodded.
"Ok, so when they return, we're just gonna have to make them see that," Carrie concluded. Everyone nodded.
"So, who's gonna go it?" She asked, nobody nodded, nobody uttered a word, not so such as even move. Suddenly, they sighted two sets of headlights outside – this was it.
"Arg, do I have to do everything by myself?" Carrie mumbled.
~*~
Nick jumped out of the truck and proceeded towards the door, Sara followed. The trip had been very short, but the day was long, and now they just wanted to get some rest.
"Hi, have a nice drive?" Carrie questioned, opening the large oak doors and startling the couple.
"Good, cause now we have some things we want to say to the both of you," Carrie insisted, pushing the front door closed, nodding at Tim and Angela. They both took Nick and Sara hostage, forcing them in to the living room. Both somewhat cooperated, a little reluctant at first.
"Yeah, but-" Sara protested.
"Sit," Carrie growled.
"We talk, you listen," Angela continued.
"But-" Nick also protested, he tried to get up from the couch, but was forced to sit by his towering older brother.
"Sit!" Tim ordered, crossing his arms across his chest.
"Look, this little 'fight' has to stop," Carrie pleaded, waving both hands in the air.
"Y'all know that we love you, and Lord knows, that you are just perfect for each other," Carrie paused. Nick and Sara looked at her, waiting for the sentence's conclusion.
"So what's the hold up," Evelyn asked jumping out of the armchair seated across the couch.
Nick and Sara just looked at each other, eager to tell them about "them."
"See, we-" Nick began, but was again interrupted by Carrie's words.
"You," she pointed at her younger brother's direction.
"We all know that you have a history with Jamie; and we respect that. But that was then, and this is now. Jamie left, and she made her choice. You need to make that choice that we know you've been dying to make," she began – this wasn't the end of her speech. And everyone, minus Tim sat around the couch, knowing that with Carrie at the helm of 'the inquisition' that it was going to be a long night. However, they were anxious to see what would transpire after this intervention. After all, they all believed in the same thing, they all saw it, and now more than ever, Nick needed a little boost. This was their form of a boost.
"And don't you dare say to me, that you have no idea what I'm talking about," Carrie accused.
"Carrie-" Sara began.
"Shh, did I ask you to talk? I'm not finished," Carrie snapped. All watched as Sara raised her arms to surrender.
'Ouch,' everyone winced, those words were a little harsh, and they knew Carrie was getting out of hand, they were gonna stop her – soon.
"Y'all need to hear what the both of you need to know," Carrie continued, her face was turning red, she was pumped, ready and determined to bring Sara and Nick together.
"Sara," she began, finally calming her nerves, and extending a hand.
"I know that you were hurt by Jamie coming in here, but don't be scared. Jamie is a past chapter in Nick's life. She did that when she packed up her bags and left - in search for God knows what," Carrie threw her arms in the air, unsure about what to say next.
"Look, you are a wonderful girl; you're smart, funny as hell, and looks to boot," Carrie managed to articulate. Sara blushed, flattered at the kind words.
"You're perfect, and you shouldn't feel any less compared to Jamie," Carrie continued, holding Sara's face, as if inspecting it.
"We all liked her, I mean, she made Nick 'different', and we were happy to know her,"
"Well, that was until she decided to leave, and Nick mopped around the house," the woman continued. She imitated Nick's actions; with her shoulders slouched, and face drowned in sadness.
"When I ended up dragging him around for a summer –" Carrie trailed off.
"Anyway, that doesn't matter, the point is –" Carrie continued, waving her hand as if to wave the words she expressed out of the way. At this point, she really started sounding crazy.
"The point is, we just want Nick to be happy, and for you to be happy," Angela interrupted.
"Nick hasn't been as happy as he has been in the past couple of days," she continued.
"And you're the one who brought that about, you're the last piece of the equation,"
Angela urged, looking into Sara's brown eyes.
"Your cute antics does little to hide your emotions too," Angela pointed out, sighting Sara taking a short glance at Nick.
"Nick's a great person, he's been here for all of us, to share our happiness with us, but he too deserves to be happy," Carrie interrupted calmly, glaring at her sister's interruption.
"This little lug doesn't even know what's in front of him," Carrie stated, slapping Nick in the back of the head. Nick didn't move, he just squinted at his sisters, but silently entertained by their ridiculous behavior.
"Sara, let me tell you something," Angela began, it was now her turn to join the fun.
"He may like his women tall and blonde, be he loves women who can play football," Angela winked, citing from the previous football game incident. 'That sounds encouraging,' Sara's mind commented.
"Girl, you can play," Angela emphasized, her accent ever so thick. Sara continued to blush, she was so embarrassed, amused, but embarrassed.
'Why me?' Nick questioned, asking himself. His cheeks were flushed, 'these people are insane' he continued. He was uncomfortable yet stunned by his family's determination in bringing him and Sara together; captivated by the way Sara entertained their ideas. He just smiled, waiting for the family's next line of defense.
"Katherine, did you want to add anything," Angela asked, motioning the young woman to say something. Unwillingly, Kate, with her hair pulled back and typical black attire on, walked across the room and looked pleasantly at Sara. 'Kate, it's Kate, not Katherine,' she uttered to herself, hating her given name.
"Well, you've pretty much heard enough from both my Aunts, and I really have nothing more to add," Kate said. She looked at Carrie and Angela, witnessing their influential looks.
"I really don't know or have anything to say, except for, well, as embarrassed as I am to admit, Uncle Nicky's cool," Kate admitted. She avoided looking at Nick, ashamed that a girl her age still called her beloved Uncle, Uncle Nicky.
"Years back, even though it wasn't his style, I remember him dressing up as Santa one year – just so I didn't lose faith in Christmas," she recalled.
"I knew it was you all along," Kate winked. 'Aww,' Nick sighed, remembering the moment with his niece, amused that she remembered that event.
"I don't know why I decided to tell you that story, but well, what I'm basically saying is that, he's a good guy who'd be willing to do anything for you, to go above and beyond everything just to bring out a smile," Kate explained.
Sara smiled at the girl's honestly, and touched by the cute story. She looked over at Nick, 'How sweet,' she thought. Nick smiled from ear to war, proud at the person his niece had become.
Kate looked around the room, waiting for someone to continue, but nobody stood up, or even uttered a word. They were all tired of listening to the rapid-fire statements, they needed a break. Upon sighting the tired group, Kate turned her focus towards Nick and Sara.
"Any questions?" She asked, with the classic Stokes arched eyebrow lifting.
"That went well," Carrie exhaled. With a stunned and somewhat scared look, Nick and Sara shook their heads in unison.
"Good." Kate concluded.
The inquisition was over.
"We'll leave you kids some time alone," Evelyn hushed, ushering the family out onto the backyard. As usual, they all moved like a herd of cattle outside at her command. Once they were far enough from the door, Sara turned to Nick and looked at him.
"Should we tell them that we're ok," Sara began.
"We could," Nick answered softly, turning his head to face Sara. He leaned in, just inches away from her face, he stared solemnly into her eyes. She too leaned in a little closer, closing in the space between them. Nick cupped her face with his hands and pulled her closer, soon their lips met and like fire, heat surged through both their bodies. Intensifying as their kiss deepened.
"I guess we can always tell them later," Sara smiled, pulling apart lightly and taking in some air.
"They had some very good points though," Nick replied, also a little breathless.
"Uh huh," Sara mumbled. She now, leaned in to kiss him again, this time more passionately. Emotions that accumulated over the years, finally releasing themselves from her, setting her free.
His heart was glad, his head was at peace, and his lips burned with passion. 'So this is love – finally, ' he thought.
~*~
The day started out like any other, with the sun seeping through the window, drawing a glow around the room. Downstairs, the aroma of food was brewing, today's menu was warm, inviting, and very enticing.
She woke up on her side, her left arm tucked under her pillow, and her free hand on top of the pillow. She smiled at the relaxed look on Nick's face. The man slept on his side, facing her, an arm protectively wrapped around her waist. This moment was perfect. With great bemusement, she reached up and ran her finger along his jaw line, feeling the light stubble under her fingertips. 'Beautiful,' she thought.
He slit his eyes open, taking in the sun that filtered into the room, and feeling the warm finger running along his jaw line, feeling the warmth emitted by Sara's close proximity. He was calm, overjoyed. Her presence made him calm, stable, grounded; a feeling that he had never quite captured before. He captured this moment, and hoped that someday, he could wake up – just like this. He watched as Sara's eyes followed her finger, running down his face, studying the details of his face. The calmness in her face, and the focused look on Sara's face was nothing short of angelic; Nick studied it. The soft skin, the gap-toothed grin that peeked through parted luscious lips. 'Beautiful,' he thought.
Their eyes met, and both needn't say a word, their eyes told the story the wished to tell, the words they wanted to speak. Both of them smiled, like fools, they were just captivated by each other's company.
"Good morning," Evelyn uttered, eyes still focused on the newspaper in her hand.
"Good morning," Nick and Sara answered, cheery, both with goofy smiles on their faces. They were both dressed casually, wearing comfortable jeans and short sleeved shirts. Today, the were trekking back to Las Vegas, leaving the warmth of Texas, and crossing over two states to the place they called home, the place were they have made their own individual lives.
"Sleep well?" The Carrie questioned, eyebrow arched.
"Very," Nick smiled, glancing at the Sara.
"What time are you kids leaving," Robert asked.
"We have to get going soon, but we'll wait till everyone gets up," Nick answered. He took the cup of coffee that Sara had made him, and took a long sip. She smiled, and looked out to the family who had welcomed her with open arms, who made her realize her feelings, and who gave her a chance to find Nick. She was thankful, indebted to them, and she just didn't know how to pay them back.
It was around noon, and the sun was burning; while Nick stuffed the last suitcase to the back of the Tahoe. They were all set for their journey home, their new journey.
"Oh, it was very nice to meet you," Evelyn said, holding Sara in a long embrace.
"Don't ever be a stranger. And if Nick does anything, I mean anything, you just give me a ring, and I'll fly out to set my boy straight," Evelyn continued, giving her son a loving look.
"And you, take care," Evelyn continued, pulling her youngest son into a hug. A large smile on her face, and a loving heart centered on the son who made her proud.
"Take care of her, don't let her go," she whispered. Nick smiled, and nodded, a silent promise made.
"It was wonderful to meet you," Carrie greeted, giving Sara a quick hug.
"Make sure he doesn't do anything stupid," she joked, indicating to Nick.
"Why does everybody assume that I'm going to do something stupid," Nick asked.
"It took you a 22 hour drive, teasing from your friends and some egging from your family to realize what a lucky man you are," Tim answered.
"Point taken," Nick mumbled.
"Thank you for everything," Kate said to Sara, giving her a quick hug.
"No problem, you can always call if you ever need any help," Sara replied, breaking away from the cheery girl in front of her. Now a contrast to the sullen and brooding girl she first met.
"Take care of him," Robert whispered as he stepped in to hug Sara.
"Just know that you'll always have a place here," he continued, staring into her eyes.
"This one's a winner," Carrie assured, giving Nick a peck on the cheek. Nick smiled as he hugged his sister.
"I know she is," he answered, pulling back.
"I'll see you around," Nick said to his father.
"Take care," Robert answered, looking into his son's eyes. Nick understood, his father just wanted to remind him of the conversation they previously had. He nodded, and gave his father a light hug.
"Well, we're off," Nick interrupted, hopping into the Tahoe.
"It was very nice to meet everyone. Thank you for making me feel at home, and putting up with my city ways. Just remember that if you're ever in Vegas, to give me a ring,"
"I'm sure we can find a way to cram you in my small apartment," she offered, climbing into the Tahoe's passenger side.
"Thank you for the great homecoming, I'll try to come back soon," Nick said, putting the vehicle on drive.
"Just remember not to come alone, she better be with you the next time you come back," Robert answered waving at the now blushing Sara.
~*~
It had been six months since they first truly found each other under the Texan sunset, by the lake. Upon their return to Las Vegas, Sara and Nick soon assumed a life together. Two months had passed after their trip to Texas, and the couple moved in together. It was with great happiness that after Catherine and Grissom's wedding in the Bellagio; that Nick also proposed. A pleasant surprise; it shocked everyone. Warrick was very glad, Catherine and Grissom heard the news upon their return from their honeymoon, Greg was ecstatic, Sara's family cried with joy and Nick's family celebrated.
It happened on a day like any other, and Sara had just return from her shift, tired and wanting sleep. During the night, Nick had slipped a diamond ring on her finger and watched her sleep. The next day, she was surprised by the breakfast in bed.
"Breakfast? In bed? What did you do?" Sara wondered, a little surprised by the gesture.
"What? I can't do anything romantic for you anymore," Nick answered, pretending to feel hurt, and now snatched the tray back to the kitchen.
"Wait, Nick –" Sara waved, her left waving past the light of the window. She froze. Nick froze, and turned around.
"Oh my God," she gasped. Taking her hand and taking a closer look at the ring around her finger. She looked up at Nick in amazement, he had just placed the tray on the ground, and was now kneeling by the bed. He nodded.
"Are you –" Sara questioned, still struggling to wrap her mind around the idea. Nick smiled.
"Will you, Sara Sidle –" Nick began.
"Yes," Sara squealed. Diving forward and wrestling Nick to the ground. She was on top of him, and they stared into each other's eyes.
They had come so far in so little time, yet they weren't afraid, they weren't afraid to move forward. They were jaded by their single lives, and were now ready to move into a new phase in their lives – together.
"Will you, Sara Sidle, prefer eggs over-easy or scrambled," Nick smiled jokingly. Sara playfully punched his arm, smiling.
"Breakfast can wait," she suggested, giving him a soft kiss on the lips. Nick smiled mischievously.
~* 6 months later *~
Somewhere, the sun just above the sky, a man walked over to the mailbox that stood just left of the long driveway. He opened the box, and glanced through several envelopes
'Bill, bill, letter, bill, letter, bill,' his mind sorted. Then, his eyes focused on a pearly white colored envelope.
To: Sheriff Joe Ulster
With great haste, he torn open the envelope. He smiled,
'I knew they'd make it," he thought, reading the card as he walked back to his home.
Announcing the marriage of Sara Sidle and Nick Stokes
~*~
FIN
~*~
*---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------*
A/N - I'd have to say that this chapter was more serious than the others; what can I do, people say that I'm an emotive and a conceptual thinker.
Some of you might hate me for leaving the ending as it is, but we'll see what happens, a sequel CAN be done, only if things feel right. As of now, I plan to keep the ending the way it is. Thank you so much for the words of encouragement, I am absolutely blown away at how people have enjoyed this story, and it has really given me a positive outlook on writing. THANK YOU. And there's just so many of you who have reviewed, and well, I can't thank you enough, thank you again, I'm happy that you have given me feedback, time and time again. THANK YOU!
Please: love it, loathe it, review it. - oceanwave
A/N - Alright, for everyone who's reading this right now, THANK YOU. Thank you for reading this far, and for sticking with my tale of love, humor, family and adventure - or just pure sap. It's been and absolute blast writing another fic, and I hope to write others soon. Thank you so much *kisses and hugs* to everyone who has reviewed and have carried me out of a day's slumps to write this stuff. I'm happy that so many people enjoyed it, and I just loved the feedback. Thank you so very much. Well, this is the absolute last chapter *sniff* but I hope that you are content with the story's resolution. Please drop me a note whether or not you liked it. Sorry for the late posting, no excuses, just sorry. Anyway, now I'll leave you to read the ending of the saga.
~*~
"This is nice," Sara said. About 30 minutes had passed since their last words.
"I'm glad that you finally decided to talk," Joe replied.
"I'm sorry, I'm just trying to think things through," Sara apologized.
"I understand."
Sara looked at the man, questioning the look he wore, a look of sheer stillness, not emptiness, just serene.
"Do you come here often," she asked.
"Every chance I get," he replied.
"That's the great thing about Texas, you can travel from the city to the country, the old to the new, and still feel the same – be the same," he answered cryptically.
"This is a good home," Sara commented.
"Well, it is definitely where my heart is," Joe replied.
For hours, both sat in the comfort of the boat, thinking, caught up in the lake's peacefulness. The fish wasn't bad either, every now and then, they would reel in something. With time, they hadn't really paid attention to the moving sun, they only sitting, taking in the scenery. It was just before sunrise that they realize the time, knowing that they had to return to the marina. Both knew that this escape was temporary, and that they soon would have to face the realities they ran from.
Upon reaching the marina, both hopped out of the both, fish in tow.
"Thank you," Sara said softly. Joe turned his attention away from the trunk of his truck, and faced Sara.
"Anytime you're in Texas," Joe replied, the tone of his voice deepened by his accent. He smiled, and likewise, Sara smiled.
"Everything will be fine," Joe assured, pulling Sara into a soft hug.
'I hope so,' Sara's mind thought. They released each other from their embrace, Joe looked at Sara and bid her goodbye – to take care. He was sincere in his words, deeply concerned at the distraught look Sara portrayed earlier. But the water made her look calmer, more understanding, and that certainly put his mind at ease. He smiled a finally time, and jumped into his truck, waving at Sara – who still stood in the parking lot.
The sky was a dark blue, with grey tints and orange streaks. The sky was almost dark, and the lake looked magnificent, burning, but the water remained calm.
~*~
He drove for hours, looking for Sara. Searching.
He canvassed the local places that would have interested Sara, checking flight bookings to Las Vegas, local gas stations, and dreadfully checked the hospitals as well. Nothing.
The day was wearing thin, and he knew that he had to find her, to tell her, he couldn't lose her. The sun was about to set, and he didn't know were to go, his mind just in shambles. He continued driving, 'north, maybe there's something there,' his mind convinced him. His journey continued, and it leaded him to the edge of the lake, he parked the truck by the lake, staring out onto the sun's reflection in the water. His mind was flooded by memories of the times he spent by this lake, contemplating life, thinking of love, escaping.
'God, it's been so long,' he thought, he watched the lake and hopped out of the truck, walking around it and onto the lake's edge.
He sat there; unmoving, silent, thinking. Staring out onto the distance.
~*~
She sat atop a rock, curled up, with arms hugging her knees and her face rested on her knees. Sara sat there, silent, thinking, looking out onto the still lake.
Nick got up from his spot, wanting to walk around, to feel the sand between his toes.
She stayed still, feeling a cool breeze flow past her, her hair waving in the wind.
He walked around the lake's edge, taking in the scenery that still thrived. He saw someone familiar, and relief washed over his body. He walked closer to the woman who sat atop a rock, hair waving in the wind. He breathed, aware of the nervousness that claimed his body.
She stayed still, thinking.
Slowly, he eased himself beside her, being silent and calm.
She felt his presence, knowing that it was Nick. A feeling of relief and at the same time, calmness came over her body.
"I didn't mean to hurt you," he murmured.
"It's just that, when Jamie left, I was lost for the longest time. Seeing her, just-" he continued, glancing at Sara's blank face.
"Seeing her, closed that part of my life. It made my head at peace, knowing that after all these years, she was alright," Nick assured.
"She will always be a part of me, a part of my past. She helped me find myself when I was lost."
"I loved her – a long time ago, she was my guide, my compass, my home. But after she left, I lost myself, I ran away,"
"But you, helped me find myself again," Nick emphasized.
"This trip made me realize the things that I missed, what I wanted and what mattered most," he paused.
"You," he continued, again looking into the face that didn't have words.
"This trip helped me find my way home, helped me find my way to you," he breathed, waiting for a reaction.
Nothing, no words, no emotion.
"Well, I've said what I wanted to say, and I guess this is my cue to leave, " Nick broke the silence, feeling dejected.
"Stay," Sara whispered, she finally broke free from her daze and looked up at him. He obeyed, sitting close to her, wanting to wrap his arms around her as the cool wind blew, but resisted the urge.
They watched the rest of the sunset in silence, words never needed to communicate what their heart held true. He stared into her warm eyes, speechless at this moment, having no words to pronounce. He reached his hand closer to her, holding her face in his hand, and turning it towards him.
She looked at him, calmness and understanding plagued her eyes. She smiled, and allowed Nick to pull her closer. She gazed at his anticipating lips, hers tingling at the thought of kissing his.
Nick never took his eyes of her, watching as she reacted to his actions, and happy that she didn't pull away. With ease and gentleness, he inched closer and closer, taking in her soft scent and warm breathe. Finally, he placed his lips against hers, letting the heat that seared through him to conform to her sweet, soft lips.
Fire.
She didn't hesitate, and allowed her lips to contact with his, they were soft, and the tingle in her lips intensified. Sara felt a soft smile curve from Nick's lips as both of them pulled apart. Their cheeks hot, and body warm and stinging. They both smiled at each other's cheeks, happy that the moment was as pleasing as they had hopped, even more. Sara slipped her hand into Nick's and held it as they sat quietly, never wanting to leave each other's company.
There were no words that both wanted to share, silence was precious, and they reveled in it. Who needed words, when someone you loved shared a moment like this?
~*~
"Ok, this is the plan," Carrie urged.
"We all know that there's something going on with Nick and Sara, correct?" she continued. Everyone nodded.
"Ok, so when they return, we're just gonna have to make them see that," Carrie concluded. Everyone nodded.
"So, who's gonna go it?" She asked, nobody nodded, nobody uttered a word, not so such as even move. Suddenly, they sighted two sets of headlights outside – this was it.
"Arg, do I have to do everything by myself?" Carrie mumbled.
~*~
Nick jumped out of the truck and proceeded towards the door, Sara followed. The trip had been very short, but the day was long, and now they just wanted to get some rest.
"Hi, have a nice drive?" Carrie questioned, opening the large oak doors and startling the couple.
"Good, cause now we have some things we want to say to the both of you," Carrie insisted, pushing the front door closed, nodding at Tim and Angela. They both took Nick and Sara hostage, forcing them in to the living room. Both somewhat cooperated, a little reluctant at first.
"Yeah, but-" Sara protested.
"Sit," Carrie growled.
"We talk, you listen," Angela continued.
"But-" Nick also protested, he tried to get up from the couch, but was forced to sit by his towering older brother.
"Sit!" Tim ordered, crossing his arms across his chest.
"Look, this little 'fight' has to stop," Carrie pleaded, waving both hands in the air.
"Y'all know that we love you, and Lord knows, that you are just perfect for each other," Carrie paused. Nick and Sara looked at her, waiting for the sentence's conclusion.
"So what's the hold up," Evelyn asked jumping out of the armchair seated across the couch.
Nick and Sara just looked at each other, eager to tell them about "them."
"See, we-" Nick began, but was again interrupted by Carrie's words.
"You," she pointed at her younger brother's direction.
"We all know that you have a history with Jamie; and we respect that. But that was then, and this is now. Jamie left, and she made her choice. You need to make that choice that we know you've been dying to make," she began – this wasn't the end of her speech. And everyone, minus Tim sat around the couch, knowing that with Carrie at the helm of 'the inquisition' that it was going to be a long night. However, they were anxious to see what would transpire after this intervention. After all, they all believed in the same thing, they all saw it, and now more than ever, Nick needed a little boost. This was their form of a boost.
"And don't you dare say to me, that you have no idea what I'm talking about," Carrie accused.
"Carrie-" Sara began.
"Shh, did I ask you to talk? I'm not finished," Carrie snapped. All watched as Sara raised her arms to surrender.
'Ouch,' everyone winced, those words were a little harsh, and they knew Carrie was getting out of hand, they were gonna stop her – soon.
"Y'all need to hear what the both of you need to know," Carrie continued, her face was turning red, she was pumped, ready and determined to bring Sara and Nick together.
"Sara," she began, finally calming her nerves, and extending a hand.
"I know that you were hurt by Jamie coming in here, but don't be scared. Jamie is a past chapter in Nick's life. She did that when she packed up her bags and left - in search for God knows what," Carrie threw her arms in the air, unsure about what to say next.
"Look, you are a wonderful girl; you're smart, funny as hell, and looks to boot," Carrie managed to articulate. Sara blushed, flattered at the kind words.
"You're perfect, and you shouldn't feel any less compared to Jamie," Carrie continued, holding Sara's face, as if inspecting it.
"We all liked her, I mean, she made Nick 'different', and we were happy to know her,"
"Well, that was until she decided to leave, and Nick mopped around the house," the woman continued. She imitated Nick's actions; with her shoulders slouched, and face drowned in sadness.
"When I ended up dragging him around for a summer –" Carrie trailed off.
"Anyway, that doesn't matter, the point is –" Carrie continued, waving her hand as if to wave the words she expressed out of the way. At this point, she really started sounding crazy.
"The point is, we just want Nick to be happy, and for you to be happy," Angela interrupted.
"Nick hasn't been as happy as he has been in the past couple of days," she continued.
"And you're the one who brought that about, you're the last piece of the equation,"
Angela urged, looking into Sara's brown eyes.
"Your cute antics does little to hide your emotions too," Angela pointed out, sighting Sara taking a short glance at Nick.
"Nick's a great person, he's been here for all of us, to share our happiness with us, but he too deserves to be happy," Carrie interrupted calmly, glaring at her sister's interruption.
"This little lug doesn't even know what's in front of him," Carrie stated, slapping Nick in the back of the head. Nick didn't move, he just squinted at his sisters, but silently entertained by their ridiculous behavior.
"Sara, let me tell you something," Angela began, it was now her turn to join the fun.
"He may like his women tall and blonde, be he loves women who can play football," Angela winked, citing from the previous football game incident. 'That sounds encouraging,' Sara's mind commented.
"Girl, you can play," Angela emphasized, her accent ever so thick. Sara continued to blush, she was so embarrassed, amused, but embarrassed.
'Why me?' Nick questioned, asking himself. His cheeks were flushed, 'these people are insane' he continued. He was uncomfortable yet stunned by his family's determination in bringing him and Sara together; captivated by the way Sara entertained their ideas. He just smiled, waiting for the family's next line of defense.
"Katherine, did you want to add anything," Angela asked, motioning the young woman to say something. Unwillingly, Kate, with her hair pulled back and typical black attire on, walked across the room and looked pleasantly at Sara. 'Kate, it's Kate, not Katherine,' she uttered to herself, hating her given name.
"Well, you've pretty much heard enough from both my Aunts, and I really have nothing more to add," Kate said. She looked at Carrie and Angela, witnessing their influential looks.
"I really don't know or have anything to say, except for, well, as embarrassed as I am to admit, Uncle Nicky's cool," Kate admitted. She avoided looking at Nick, ashamed that a girl her age still called her beloved Uncle, Uncle Nicky.
"Years back, even though it wasn't his style, I remember him dressing up as Santa one year – just so I didn't lose faith in Christmas," she recalled.
"I knew it was you all along," Kate winked. 'Aww,' Nick sighed, remembering the moment with his niece, amused that she remembered that event.
"I don't know why I decided to tell you that story, but well, what I'm basically saying is that, he's a good guy who'd be willing to do anything for you, to go above and beyond everything just to bring out a smile," Kate explained.
Sara smiled at the girl's honestly, and touched by the cute story. She looked over at Nick, 'How sweet,' she thought. Nick smiled from ear to war, proud at the person his niece had become.
Kate looked around the room, waiting for someone to continue, but nobody stood up, or even uttered a word. They were all tired of listening to the rapid-fire statements, they needed a break. Upon sighting the tired group, Kate turned her focus towards Nick and Sara.
"Any questions?" She asked, with the classic Stokes arched eyebrow lifting.
"That went well," Carrie exhaled. With a stunned and somewhat scared look, Nick and Sara shook their heads in unison.
"Good." Kate concluded.
The inquisition was over.
"We'll leave you kids some time alone," Evelyn hushed, ushering the family out onto the backyard. As usual, they all moved like a herd of cattle outside at her command. Once they were far enough from the door, Sara turned to Nick and looked at him.
"Should we tell them that we're ok," Sara began.
"We could," Nick answered softly, turning his head to face Sara. He leaned in, just inches away from her face, he stared solemnly into her eyes. She too leaned in a little closer, closing in the space between them. Nick cupped her face with his hands and pulled her closer, soon their lips met and like fire, heat surged through both their bodies. Intensifying as their kiss deepened.
"I guess we can always tell them later," Sara smiled, pulling apart lightly and taking in some air.
"They had some very good points though," Nick replied, also a little breathless.
"Uh huh," Sara mumbled. She now, leaned in to kiss him again, this time more passionately. Emotions that accumulated over the years, finally releasing themselves from her, setting her free.
His heart was glad, his head was at peace, and his lips burned with passion. 'So this is love – finally, ' he thought.
~*~
The day started out like any other, with the sun seeping through the window, drawing a glow around the room. Downstairs, the aroma of food was brewing, today's menu was warm, inviting, and very enticing.
She woke up on her side, her left arm tucked under her pillow, and her free hand on top of the pillow. She smiled at the relaxed look on Nick's face. The man slept on his side, facing her, an arm protectively wrapped around her waist. This moment was perfect. With great bemusement, she reached up and ran her finger along his jaw line, feeling the light stubble under her fingertips. 'Beautiful,' she thought.
He slit his eyes open, taking in the sun that filtered into the room, and feeling the warm finger running along his jaw line, feeling the warmth emitted by Sara's close proximity. He was calm, overjoyed. Her presence made him calm, stable, grounded; a feeling that he had never quite captured before. He captured this moment, and hoped that someday, he could wake up – just like this. He watched as Sara's eyes followed her finger, running down his face, studying the details of his face. The calmness in her face, and the focused look on Sara's face was nothing short of angelic; Nick studied it. The soft skin, the gap-toothed grin that peeked through parted luscious lips. 'Beautiful,' he thought.
Their eyes met, and both needn't say a word, their eyes told the story the wished to tell, the words they wanted to speak. Both of them smiled, like fools, they were just captivated by each other's company.
"Good morning," Evelyn uttered, eyes still focused on the newspaper in her hand.
"Good morning," Nick and Sara answered, cheery, both with goofy smiles on their faces. They were both dressed casually, wearing comfortable jeans and short sleeved shirts. Today, the were trekking back to Las Vegas, leaving the warmth of Texas, and crossing over two states to the place they called home, the place were they have made their own individual lives.
"Sleep well?" The Carrie questioned, eyebrow arched.
"Very," Nick smiled, glancing at the Sara.
"What time are you kids leaving," Robert asked.
"We have to get going soon, but we'll wait till everyone gets up," Nick answered. He took the cup of coffee that Sara had made him, and took a long sip. She smiled, and looked out to the family who had welcomed her with open arms, who made her realize her feelings, and who gave her a chance to find Nick. She was thankful, indebted to them, and she just didn't know how to pay them back.
It was around noon, and the sun was burning; while Nick stuffed the last suitcase to the back of the Tahoe. They were all set for their journey home, their new journey.
"Oh, it was very nice to meet you," Evelyn said, holding Sara in a long embrace.
"Don't ever be a stranger. And if Nick does anything, I mean anything, you just give me a ring, and I'll fly out to set my boy straight," Evelyn continued, giving her son a loving look.
"And you, take care," Evelyn continued, pulling her youngest son into a hug. A large smile on her face, and a loving heart centered on the son who made her proud.
"Take care of her, don't let her go," she whispered. Nick smiled, and nodded, a silent promise made.
"It was wonderful to meet you," Carrie greeted, giving Sara a quick hug.
"Make sure he doesn't do anything stupid," she joked, indicating to Nick.
"Why does everybody assume that I'm going to do something stupid," Nick asked.
"It took you a 22 hour drive, teasing from your friends and some egging from your family to realize what a lucky man you are," Tim answered.
"Point taken," Nick mumbled.
"Thank you for everything," Kate said to Sara, giving her a quick hug.
"No problem, you can always call if you ever need any help," Sara replied, breaking away from the cheery girl in front of her. Now a contrast to the sullen and brooding girl she first met.
"Take care of him," Robert whispered as he stepped in to hug Sara.
"Just know that you'll always have a place here," he continued, staring into her eyes.
"This one's a winner," Carrie assured, giving Nick a peck on the cheek. Nick smiled as he hugged his sister.
"I know she is," he answered, pulling back.
"I'll see you around," Nick said to his father.
"Take care," Robert answered, looking into his son's eyes. Nick understood, his father just wanted to remind him of the conversation they previously had. He nodded, and gave his father a light hug.
"Well, we're off," Nick interrupted, hopping into the Tahoe.
"It was very nice to meet everyone. Thank you for making me feel at home, and putting up with my city ways. Just remember that if you're ever in Vegas, to give me a ring,"
"I'm sure we can find a way to cram you in my small apartment," she offered, climbing into the Tahoe's passenger side.
"Thank you for the great homecoming, I'll try to come back soon," Nick said, putting the vehicle on drive.
"Just remember not to come alone, she better be with you the next time you come back," Robert answered waving at the now blushing Sara.
~*~
It had been six months since they first truly found each other under the Texan sunset, by the lake. Upon their return to Las Vegas, Sara and Nick soon assumed a life together. Two months had passed after their trip to Texas, and the couple moved in together. It was with great happiness that after Catherine and Grissom's wedding in the Bellagio; that Nick also proposed. A pleasant surprise; it shocked everyone. Warrick was very glad, Catherine and Grissom heard the news upon their return from their honeymoon, Greg was ecstatic, Sara's family cried with joy and Nick's family celebrated.
It happened on a day like any other, and Sara had just return from her shift, tired and wanting sleep. During the night, Nick had slipped a diamond ring on her finger and watched her sleep. The next day, she was surprised by the breakfast in bed.
"Breakfast? In bed? What did you do?" Sara wondered, a little surprised by the gesture.
"What? I can't do anything romantic for you anymore," Nick answered, pretending to feel hurt, and now snatched the tray back to the kitchen.
"Wait, Nick –" Sara waved, her left waving past the light of the window. She froze. Nick froze, and turned around.
"Oh my God," she gasped. Taking her hand and taking a closer look at the ring around her finger. She looked up at Nick in amazement, he had just placed the tray on the ground, and was now kneeling by the bed. He nodded.
"Are you –" Sara questioned, still struggling to wrap her mind around the idea. Nick smiled.
"Will you, Sara Sidle –" Nick began.
"Yes," Sara squealed. Diving forward and wrestling Nick to the ground. She was on top of him, and they stared into each other's eyes.
They had come so far in so little time, yet they weren't afraid, they weren't afraid to move forward. They were jaded by their single lives, and were now ready to move into a new phase in their lives – together.
"Will you, Sara Sidle, prefer eggs over-easy or scrambled," Nick smiled jokingly. Sara playfully punched his arm, smiling.
"Breakfast can wait," she suggested, giving him a soft kiss on the lips. Nick smiled mischievously.
~* 6 months later *~
Somewhere, the sun just above the sky, a man walked over to the mailbox that stood just left of the long driveway. He opened the box, and glanced through several envelopes
'Bill, bill, letter, bill, letter, bill,' his mind sorted. Then, his eyes focused on a pearly white colored envelope.
To: Sheriff Joe Ulster
With great haste, he torn open the envelope. He smiled,
'I knew they'd make it," he thought, reading the card as he walked back to his home.
Announcing the marriage of Sara Sidle and Nick Stokes
~*~
FIN
~*~
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A/N - I'd have to say that this chapter was more serious than the others; what can I do, people say that I'm an emotive and a conceptual thinker.
Some of you might hate me for leaving the ending as it is, but we'll see what happens, a sequel CAN be done, only if things feel right. As of now, I plan to keep the ending the way it is. Thank you so much for the words of encouragement, I am absolutely blown away at how people have enjoyed this story, and it has really given me a positive outlook on writing. THANK YOU. And there's just so many of you who have reviewed, and well, I can't thank you enough, thank you again, I'm happy that you have given me feedback, time and time again. THANK YOU!
Please: love it, loathe it, review it. - oceanwave