For Honor and Glory

by brutal-howell

Grissom confronts Brian, the CSI's rally around their leader and Moira and Grissom share a secret -- but only with each other

5. Chapter 5

Title: For Honor and Glory

Chapter: 5?

Author: BrutalHowell (or WesleysLady) same :P

Email: or Drama/Romance/Angst/General

Pairing: Grissom/Original Character

Summary: An opportunity for Tamatsura proves risky for Grissom, and worse for Moira

Spoilers: Just Ch's 1-4 of this fic

Feedback: Yes, please. Good feedback will be relished, flames…I use to roast marshmallows. Lemme' have it. I'm hoping for at least 5 reviews before I release Chapter six.

Disclaimer: Moira and the bad guys belong to me. Everyone else…I'm just borrowing. Sadly, I make no money on this. Just get a chance to have a little fun.

For Honor and Glory

Chapter 5

by

Brutal Howell

Wolves in Sheep's Clothing

It had been nearly a week since Moira's confrontation with Brian. As ordered, the Sheriff had tenured his sudden resignation, and left town with his wife and two daughters in tow. Sean got a kick out of teasing his boss that she still had the reputation of an ogre, despite the softening of her countenance, due in large part to Gil Grissom.

A Temporary Sheriff was assigned to finish the last four months of Brian's term, and it seemed that the God's were smiling on Gil and his crew. Steven Jenkins, the former Sheriff, had come out of retirement at the Governor's request. Jenkins was an old friend of Gil's, and cared far more about solving the case, than furthering his career. Ecklie was absolutely livid. Without Brian in place, his own chances to advance were severely diminished. Plain simple fact, his crew's numbers didn't stack up against night shifts.

Grissom looked up from the corner of the house he was in. He didn't need to see her, to know that Moira was nearby. Lately, it seemed as if he could sense her. He was holding up a floorboard with one hand, and frowned, realizing he couldn't reach his kit.

"Cath, can you pass me a swab?" He called out to the redhead across the room. Within moments, she was by his side, handing over the requested item. She reached back, and grabbed the small bottle of phenolphthalein.

After years of working together, they had learned to anticipate each other's actions. When he passed her the swab, she dropped a few dots on the swab, telling them it was positive for blood. She was about to bag the swab for him when everyone's attention was drawn to the roof. Catherine and Nick immediately drew their guns, sensing someone walking around up there. Moira and Sean appeared suddenly, with Sean moving Gil behind a large table in the corner. "Moira…" Gil started to call, but Sean shook his head, his own weapon in his hand.

Moira could hear at least three assailants on the roof. She turned toward the rear of the house as two more appeared at the windows. She drew her other gun, immediately dropping the clip and replacing it with armor piercing rounds.

One of the assailants was now on the stairs, starting to come down. Seeing that Sean had Gil covered, Moira hugged the stairwell of the house, waiting to make her move. When the man reached the bottom, she pressed the muzzle of her gun to the back of his head.

"All right, the rest of you, show yourselves!" She growled in fluent Chinese, noting the nationality of the man she held at gun-point. She pressed the gun harder against the man's skull, and heard him order the others to reveal themselves. Her green eyes darted around the room, immediately picking up the two coming through the back, and two additional men upstairs. All Chinese.

"Moira?" Grissom inquired, worried for her safety. Sean moved in between Grissom and two of the men.

"Gil, stay down," She told him, before reverting back to her Chinese. "What do you want?" she demanded to know. The man in front of her was far too calm for her liking.

"We have no interest in your scientist, Irish," the man replied. "Our business is with you." He added. Now, she was REALLY confused. She saw Nick raise his gun, and shook her head, relieved when he lowered it. The situation was already volatile enough.

"If that's true, you won't mind speaking English in front of my friends here, so that no one accidentally gets trigger happy in the misunderstanding," Moira pointed out.

"We're not interested in your life, Mr. Grissom, my boss sent me to deal with your very capable bodyguard. We are Tong. The Irish woman did us a favor." The man explained, calmly.

"Michael Lee," Gil responded, and noted that the Chinese man smiled.

"Our sources did not do you justice, sir. That is exactly why we are here." The man continued. "Michael Lee has brought immense dishonor to my people for years. We have tried to remove that particular thorn from my boss' side for over a decade. You, yourself, guaranteed that his spawn will rot in prison, and the Irish woman took care of the problem. Honor dictates that we are in her debt." The man turned slowly, making no threatening gestures toward any of them. He met Moira's gaze evenly. "I have my orders. My men and I will be around. With Tamatsura arriving shortly, we will undoubtedly have opportunity to repay this debt. Once the debt is paid, we will leave your city," he said more for the CSI crew's benefit. "I wish you good fortune against the dragon." He turned to face Grissom one last time. "You, sir…are a lucky man." He headed toward the front door, the other four following them.

"Moira…." Nick began, and started after them. He was restrained by Sean's large hand on his arm.

"They're not Yakuza, Nick. They're Tong….Chinese. And we may have just gotten our first lucky break." Moira explained to the younger man. She turned and smiled indulgently at the confused look on his face.

"Tamatsura expects Moira….even Sean, and all of you. I doubt he would anticipate the Tong making such an overture. It could potentially, be our ace in the hole," Catherine supplied, allowing herself to breathe easier now that she understood there was no immediate threat. Those men had gotten into the house far too easily. But in a way it made sense. It wasn't as if members of the Chinese Mafia could just walk into the lab. Moira and Jim had the place locked down tighter than Fort Knox. It was obviously easier to get into a crime scene. She smiled to herself when she saw Moira immediately come to Grissom's side to check on him. "Grissom, maybe you should head back to the lab, and let us finish up here," Catherine suggested gently.

"Yo, what's up with the Asian guys comin' out the front door?" Warrick asked, as he came in. He stopped immediately, sensing the tension in the room, and noting Nick and Sean putting their guns away. "Okay, what'd we miss?" he asked, seriously.

Moira could see the frustration building in Gil's blue eyes. She knew he had bent over backwards to accommodate her and her rules in his life for his own survival.

And in concession, she tried to make certain that things bled over into his work as little as possible. But now, one of his closest friends was telling him he couldn't do his job anymore.

She knew Catherine meant well, that she just wanted to protect her friend….hell, they all did. But for a man like Gil Grissom, his work is his life. Take that from him, and you might as well kill him. Moira knew she would have to just reassure him, privately, that the situation was temporary. She put her hand on his arm, giving it a gentle squeeze.

"I'm not going anywhere," Grissom replied, never breaking his gaze with Moira's.

"Grissom," Catherine started to protest, but he shook his head adamantly and cut her off.

"No, Catherine. End of story. You heard them. They weren't here for me, and I'm not letting every little thing chase me off of my job. So no." Grissom seemed adamant on this point. Nick, Warrick and Sean watched the exchange like a tennis match, wondering when the volleys would stop.

The two CSIs knew neither of their friends were likely to give in on anything, especially if they thought they were right. Sean, knowing his boss, was certain that she was hesitant to get in between the two friends, but he didn't believe this would be solved without her input.

Catherine looked as if she were going to interrupt once again, as Grissom turned toward the area he had been processing before. Moira stepped in between them and held up her hand in a silent plea to get Catherine to back off. Moira spared a glance over Catherine's shoulder to Warrick, and the younger man nodded in acknowledgement.

"Come on, Cath, we'll tackle the upstairs. Nick can handle the kitchen. Sooner we get done, sooner we get out of here," Warrick told her, picking up her kit for her, and starting for the stairs. Moira waited for everyone to leave the room, not straying far from Grissom.

She gave him about ten minutes to work, watching him actively trying to tamp down on his frustration. She knew Sean was close by, so she took a moment to tend to Grissom's emotional well being. Stepping close to him, she put her hand on his back, smiling gently when he turned to face her. She opened her arms, and pulled him into an embrace. They held each other for a few seconds, before she released him.

"Thanks," Grissom responded sheepishly, when he took a step back. He needed that reassurance, more than she could possibly realize. She waved off his thanks. Looking after his physical safety was her job, tending to his emotional safety was her duty as the woman that loved him.

"Gil…" She began, but he sighed and cut her off, starting to sign. Signing was his security blanket, in a way. Something that was just between the two of them, where he could vent some of his frustration…and still remain hidden.

I know, I just… He knew he was too hard on Catherine. His friends had been constantly thinking of nothing but his safety for the last few weeks, frequently picking up his slack, and maneuvering their schedules so that Moira always had some help. And he was taking his frustration out on Catherine.

You're going stir crazy…I know. This has turned your life upside down, and now it's interfering with your work. And that makes you angry. I get that….we all do. Catherine might not have worded it well, but her intentions were honorable. She's worried about you. They all are. She smiled and reached up cupped his cheek, stroking it with her thumb. She laughed softly when he nodded, wearing a sheepish expression.

Should we leave? Is she right? Am I still in danger here? he asked, honestly.

Honestly, I don't know. In situations like this, it's better to err on the side of caution. We have to assume there are Yakuza and mercenaries in town, on Victor's payroll. When you work in such close quarters like this, it's not only you at risk, but those around you.

She tried to point out. Giving him a way to retreat, and still maintain his dignity, without having to compromise his devotion to his work.

They would come through the others to get me? he asked, concerned for his friends. What am I saying? We're talking about a man who killed his first wife and son, Grissom tamped down on the shudder that worked its way up his spine. He knew Tamatsura would have no qualms about killing any of his crew to fulfill his vengeance. Moira watched him squat and pack up his kit.

"Sean, will you inform Nick that he'll need to finish processing this room?" Grissom asked the large Irishman. Moira waited by the door, with her charge, waiting for Sean to return, to drive them back to the lab. Security was much tighter there, and if they were going to force him off field work, she couldn't take the lab from him as well. Grissom needed to feel as if he were contributing, in some other way than putting his crew in danger. Nick stood in the doorway between the kitchen and the living room, giving his boss a concerned look.

"You sure about this, Grissom?" He asked sincerely, knowing how hard it was for his friend to take a step back.

"I am. I need you to finish this room, and if you finish here, help Warrick and Catherine upstairs," Grissom instructed. His own frustrations didn't matter anymore. Greg had already been shot because of him. He couldn't risk getting anyone else hurt. Especially as the date of Tamatsura's arrival loomed closer.

Moira drew her weapon, escorting Grissom out to her SUV with Sean shadowing them both. As soon as they were both in and the doors were locked, with Sean behind the wheel, she put away the gun. She looked at Grissom speculatively. His jaw was clenched, his handsome face turned away, looking out the opposite window as Sean started the engine. "I'm sorry," she whispered, trying to lessen his turmoil.

"It's all right," came the soft, and expected reply.

"It's not all right." Moira told him adamantly. "And whether you realize it or not, I do understand." She promised, smirking when he looked at her like he didn't believe her. "You're a brilliant man, Gil." She began. "Until recently, your life was in order. Your home life, your work, it was in its nice, neat little package, just where you wanted it, where you needed it. Then this case comes along, followed by me, and Sean. Now, your home life isn't entirely yours, and now you are being forced to cut your time on scenes. You need an outlet," Her fingers absently stroked the hair on the back of his head. "Normally you soothe your mind by pouring everything into figuring out these cases. Now that's being removed, and your having to deal with that. Your outlet isn't there anymore. And for a man like you, it's more frustrating than anything you have ever faced." She chuckled when his eyes widened in surprise. "I told you I understand."

"I don't know how to deal with this," he admitted, his voice taking on a defeated edge.

"You do exactly what you're doing. You take it one day at a time, but most of all, you survive. These people, they care about you, probably more than you realize. If you need someone to vent on, I'm here. I have a rather tough hide," She smirked, happy when he chuckled, even if it was weak.

"I'm sure Jim and Sean would just love that," He pointed out dryly.

"You let me worry about Jimmy," She grinned, feeling him relax a little more. "As for that big oaf," she nodded toward Sean in the front seat, "he's really a big kitten. But that's our secret," She pressed a finger to her lips theatrically. Both of them managing soft laughs after a grunt of protest was heard from Sean. "Gil," Moira immediately sobered. "I have news for you...you're allowed to be human." She added, leaning her head on his shoulder.

"I suppose I should apologize for anything I might say later," He turned his head, pressing his lips to her temple. Grissom gave a resigned sigh, closing his eyes, he just enjoyed the feeling of her curled into his side.

"Tamatsura is due here anyday, and everything you know has been flipped upside down. You don't owe me -- or anyone else -- anything." She said adamantly. As they pulled up in front of the lab, Sean called Moira, and instantly, she was at attention. Looking out the window, she scowled. "God, what is she doing here?" She said, more to herself than either of them. Standing in front of the lab was Jimmy...who seemed to be standing guard by Elizabeth Grissom -- Gil's mother.

"Damnit," Gil growled, jumping out of the SUV as soon as it stopped. Which caused a curse in his two bodyguards since he didn't wait for them. Sean and Moira were both out of the SUV in a hurry, guns drawn. Sean stood guarding Gil's back as he signed adamantly to his mother. Moira approached Jim, wanting to know what was going on.

"She got here about an hour ago. Apparently, your boy didn't tell her why he called off on his annual visit. Got her worried, so she showed up." He waved a stack of about four papers toward her. "Lot of exclamation points on these pages, he's gonna have his hands full soothing that temper." He chuckled. Moira smiled, noticing that Elizabeth Grissom's signing had become angry, the motion on her hands short and emphatic.

"Let's take this inside, Gil. You can explain everything then," Moira instructed, steering him toward the entrance while Sean protected Elizabeth. As soon as they cleared the door to Gil's office, Moira told Sean and Jimmy to stand outside, and closed the door to the office behind them. She was slightly annoyed with Gil, as Elizabeth Grissom's only child, he should have known she would worry. No, telling her outright that a psychotic mob boss wanted him dead was not the way to go. But he could have implied a little more danger. Having Elizabeth here was not only dangerous to her, but to Gil. He would be more focused on his mother's safety, rather than his own...understandably so.

Who is she? Elizabeth signed, looking toward Moira. She had noticed the woman's protective stance regarding her son, and for some reason it made her feel better. There was something about the younger woman that put her a little at ease. She took a few deep breaths, allowing herself to calm. Now that she could see that Gil was safe, she could breathe a lot easier.

I apologize, Mrs. Grissom, my name is Moira Kelly. I'm responsible for protecting your son, Moira explained, smiling at the older woman's apparant surprise at her ability to sign. My brother lost his hearing. I learned to sign not long after. She explained.

Protecting, from what? Gil stepped in at this point, not wanting Moira to tell his mother too much.

A case I testified for went a little wrong. There are some concerns, which Moira is taking care of. I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner. I didn't want you to worry. He tried his best to look contrite. It didn't exactly work. Elizabeth looked from Gil to Moira, silent for a few minutes...just observing. Moira knew he was in for it when the older woman's jaw clenched. She could protect him from hitmen and killers, but a mother's wrath? She wouldn't touch that with a ten foot pole. Leaning against the desk, she crossed her arms over her chest.

Gilbert Daniel Grissom. I am your mother! There isn't a minute of the day that goes by that I don't worry about you! Her hands snapped as she signed. She was furious. You're middle aged, single, and work a very dangerous job. In what universe should I not worry! She glared at her grown son, satisfied when he flinched and looked away. Moira couldn't help but chuckle. She held both hands up in mock surrender when Mrs. Grissom turned that deadly glare on her.

Now I know where he gets it from, She signed, explaining her smile. The eyes, the glare. Moira's words seemed to have seeped the tension from the room. She saw the older woman fighting a smile. Elizabeth Grissom looked up at Moira speculatively as if she were trying to read everything in the younger woman's eyes. Moira met her gaze, letting her ascertain whatever she needed. Neither woman noticed Gil sit behind his desk, trying to tamp down his nervousness. She smiled when her lover's mother smiled warmly at her. She must have found what she was looking for.

You're not just a bodyguard, are you? They both knew it wasn't really a question. You can see it in your eyes, She finally looked at her son, tilting her head in question as she looked for the answer in him. Unlike Moira, she could read him like a book. Her eyes widened at what she saw. Gil was under a lot of strain, that much was clear. But the thing that stood out most to her...he loved this woman. Grissom stood quickly, placing his hand on the desk. Without breaking his gaze from his mother, he addressed Moira.

"Moira, can you give us a minute, please?" He asked, not wanting to drag this out in the open. He meant what he had told Catherine. They would do this at Moira's pace. And he didn't need his mother putting her on the spot. One the door closed, he shook his head.

Please, don't do that again, he signed to his mother. He wasn't buying the innocent act. If you have any questions, ask me, in private. Moira... he broke off, not sure how to explain.

You love her, Elizabeth Grissom signed, a smug look on her face.

"Mom," he sighed, before starting his signing again. Moira, her husband was murdered twelve years ago. She found the body. I...she's hesitant. I don't want to push her into something she's not ready for. He tried to explain.

You love her, she saw her son's jaw clench in frustration.

Yes! I love her. he confessed, knowing that's what she wanted to hear. And I don't know what to do about that. He looked toward the door, his heart thudding in his chest. She's one of the most dangerous people I've ever known...but she's let me in. I see the vulnerability she keeps hidden from everyone else.

Gil, Elizabeth walked over to his desk, sitting on the edge. She smiled warmly. What is there to know? You love her, tell her. That's all you can do. She began. I know our lives with your father gives you pause. You blame him, and you're entitled to. But don't let your father prevent you from being happy. It's all right to be afraid, love...true love, can be a scary thing. But when it works, it's worth it. She reached out and stroked his face lovingly. Grissom made a small uncomfortable sound, capturing her hand in his. He looked toward the door nervously, but saw Moira standing guard over the door.

Things are...complicated, Gil began, not sure how to tell his mother about his fears. He did love Moira - and he knew she cared about him - but he was still hesitant. He wasn't a complete fool, after all. Had Colm Kelly survived, he would have now been about the same age Gil himself was. So the thought of whether he was just a surrogate had crossed his mind. Was he just an outlet for feelings left unresolved when the other man had been brutally ripped from her life? In his heart, he didn't think Moira was the type to use anyone like that, but those small, nagging doubts still gave him pause.

Things are always going to be complicated, Gil, his mother replied, her blue eyes shining in sympathy. She wished he could understand that. For all of her son's wisdom, it was the one lesson he had yet to realize. Love was always a risk, sometimes it paid off, sometimes it didn't. She knew Gil felt like love for her failed. But she didn't see it that way. Being married to Brian Grissom gave her her wonderful son. And she could never consider that a failure.

I know you want to help, but you have to let me do this at my own pace, mom. Grissom tried, hoping that she would just drop it. He breathed a sigh of relief when his mother nodded.

Tell me about her, I want to know all about the woman that got my Gil to lift his head out of his microscope, she teased. Both of them were so caught up in what the other was saying that neither noticed the green eyes peering in through the door. Moira turned away again, smiling to herself. It looked like Gil was out of the doghouse with his mom.

"So how much trouble is he in?" Jim asked his cousin with a smirk.

"Knock it off, Jimmy," Moira grumbled at him. She poked him in the middle of his chest with her finger. "And don't ride him about this later, or I'll thump you myself," she warned. Gil had enough to deal with without her mischevious cousin riding him. She nodded when he held both hands up in surrender. Jim noticed how her brow was furrowing in concentration.

"How much harder does her being here make things for you?" He asked, wanting to do anything he could to help her out.

"I'm just amazed that she got here in one piece." Moira replied, shaking her head. "If Viktor didn't know she was coming, he certainly knows she's here now. It's going to be difficult to get her out of here." her jaw clenched in frustration. "I'm going to have to send Sean with her. It'll probably be safer for her to go back a different way than she came." She hated the idea of dividing her and Sean, cutting Gil's protection in half. And with her still recovering from her injuries. But Gil wouldn't accept anything less. Not for his mother.

"Can you handle things here until Sean gets back?" Jim took a step back when she glared at him. "Look, M, I'm not doubting your abilities, but you're still hurt. Sean is a fresh pair of legs."

"I'll be fine," she growled, still annoyed by his comment, but she didn't have time to dwell on it. She noted Sean approaching the office from the direction of the breakroom. "I need you to escort Mrs. Grissom to the train station and put her on the train. You'll leave as soon as they're finished in there. The sooner we get her out of here, the less of a target she'll make for Viktor." she instructed. Sean just nodded wordlessly, everyone turning as the door opened and both Grissoms stepped out into the hallway. Moira arched a curious eyebrow at Gil, hoping, for his sake, that things had been at least resolved enough. Because his mother was leaving now. Recieving a slight nod from him, she focused her attention on his mother.

Mrs. Grissom, this is my associate, Sean, Everyone chuckled as the older woman's eyes widened when she followed Sean's tall frame up to his face. He has that effect on everyone he meets, She signed with a smile.

Do they grow them all that big where he comes from? She signed, and the large Irishman looked at his boss puzzled.

"She asked 'Do they grow them all as big as you, where you come from," Moira translated. When Sean looked at her to answer, she shook her head. "Don't tell me, tell Mrs. Grissom. She might be deaf, but she reads lips exceptionally well. Just make certain you're facing her, where she can see you, and just speak normally." She instructed. She was so used to people treating her brother different after he lost his hearing. It was only a hurdle, the explosion didn't make him less of a human, and it didn't change who he was at his core. She nodded when Sean focused on the older woman.

"My apologies, ma'am," Sean smiled sheepishly. "And no, they don't grow them as big as me." His grin grew when she laughed, her blue eyes dancing with amusement.

Mrs. Grissom, Moira began, but paused when Elizabeth cut her off.

Please, it's Bess, the older woman signed. There was no way she was going to make the woman that had captured her boy's heart stick to such formalities.

Bess, she amended. I realize this may sound odd, but I have some concern that your being here might make it easier for someone to come after Gil. We really need to resolve this situation before we can entertain a long visit. My associate Sean will drive you to the train station, and make certain you get on the train safely. I promise once it's safe, I will lock Gil in his townhouse for at least a week while you visit, Moira really needed to get her out of here. Her presence not only put her life at risk, but made the target on Gil's back twice as big.

"Hey!" Grissom protested weakly, but he couldn't hold on to his indignation in light of the mischevious sparkle in his lover's green eyes. Elizabeth looked between the two, smiling enigmatically.

It's all right , my dear. I understand you have a job to do here. Whenever your young man is ready to go, so am I, she replied to Moira. I'm trusting you to protect what is most precious to me. She added, believing, for some reason, that the woman before her understood completely.

Moira held up a hand to stave off Gil's complaint to what his mother had said. She gave the older woman a knowing look, her own thoughts moving to her own precious treasure that she had trusted to her only remaining family. The fact that Elizabeth Grissom was now giving her that same kind of trust was overwhelming. No matter what, she would not fail that trust. It was clear, both women shared that same bond, and an understanding only a mother could know.

"Sean, the bus station is twenty minutes away, you have two hours to get Mrs..." she paused when Elizabeth's eyes narrowed. "You have two hours to get Bess to the station and double time it back here." She instructed. Moira watched Sean extend his arm with a smile, while Gil's mother tucked her hand in the crook. Moira felt Gil tense next to him. She placed a hand on his back. "She'll be fine with Sean," she said, trying to soothe him. She was worried that it didn't work and was actually thankful that the rest of Gil's team chose that moment to return. At least he could be distracted from his worry by some lab work.

"How did it go?" He asked Catherine a Warrick first.

"Got everything gathered, found some hair and semen upstairs, Nick found some blood downstairs on one of the kitchen knives. We'll know more once we get them to the lab." Warrick replied, heading toward his destination. Catherine held up six rolls of film.

"I'll put a rush on these, and make sure you get a copy," She offered, before eyeing him carefully. "You okay?" she asked, once Nick and Sara walked past her.

"I'm fine, I've got some paperwork to finish in my office. Get those to me as soon as you can," Gil responded curtly before turning on his heel and heading into his office, closing the door behind him.

"How is he really?" Catherine looked at Moira.

"Frustrated," the irish woman explained, her green eyes full of worry. "When we got back, his mother was here. He's worried...about her, about all of you being sucked into the line of fire." She explained.

"His mom was here?" The older woman was a little surprised. It wasn't that she didn't realize that Gil Grissom had a mother. It is a biological impossibility to think otherwise. But they had known each other over a decade, and she didn't think she had ever heard of him even speak of the woman, let alone have her visit.

"Sean took her to the bus station." Moira looked back toward the office, before turning back to face Catherine. "The best thing you can do for now is to get the ball rolling on all of the things from the crime scene. Give him something to focus on."

"Well, I'll go get these started," Catherine said, without bidding anyone a goodbye. Moira watched her as she left, gritting her teeth against the knot forming in her gut.

"Hey, you okay?" Jim asked, knowing better than to disregard his cousin's instincts.

"I just...I've got a bad feeling about this," Moira replied with a sigh.

ANOTHER LOCATION IN VEGAS

"Is everything set?" Victor Tamatsura asked his man.

"Yes, sir. The men just await your order to proceed," the younger man informed him.

"They have it, bring me the woman," Tamatsura ordered.

"What of the irishman?" The man inquired, knowing of the large associate of the Irish mercenary.

"Kill him, you won't get the old woman otherwise," Victor reminded him. It was one of the few things he respected the irish woman for. The loyalty she instilled in others.

"Understood." The man reached for a small package his boss held out.

"Take that to the crime labs, make certain it reaches its intended destination." He added.

"Why don't you just kill the woman?It isn't as if you've bothered with discretion in the past. She matters not in the scheme of things." The young man asked.

"That is where you are wrong. The irish woman will not let me near her scientist. I'm not concerned with him much anymore. Once she is gone, he is merely a fly on my winshield. But he will serve his purpose before he dies. As bait. The irish woman will not show otherwise." Victor resisted the urge to roll his eyes. In the last decade, getting good help was next to impossible. His old assistant would have figured the plan out for himself. He still owed Moira Kelly for his death as well.

"So we use the old woman to draw her son out in the open. The son is bait for the irish woman." The younger man nodded his understanding.

"Now go. If all according to plan, the irish woman will be dead by morning." When the young man left, Tamatsura leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowing. "One way or another, this war ends tonight." He smiled smugly.

ROADSIDE, LAS VEGAS

"Here comes the target," The man heard over his radio. "Go in five, four, three, two...go!go!go!" When he got the order, the man in the Durango slammed his foot down on the accelerator, propelling the vehicle forward. The man braced himself readying for impact. Within seconds, the front end of the Durango T-boned the Irishwoman's SUV, pinning the large irishman inside. The four men in the car jumped out, guns drawn while they surrounded the SUV. He pulled the old woman from the vehicle, and lifted his gun, firing two shots into the Irishman. He lifted his gun for a headshot, but his shot went wide when the old woman struggled free and knocked his arm away. He whirled on her, smiling ferally when she froze, wide eyed, looking down the barrel of his gun.

"Get in the car, quietly, and I won't be forced to kill you, Mrs. Grissom." The man warned, motioning toward the lincoln that pulled up behind them. "Jin, get the Katana out of the back, leave the Irishman. Victor wants us back in thirty minutes." He instructed one of the other men. He could see the worry for the large man in the old woman's eyes, and it amused him. Letting her see how they were leaving him there to die. Gripping her arm, he steered her into the back of the car, pushing her in. Once everyone was in, the car sped off toward the Monaco, just as they were ordered.

CRIME LAB, LAS VEGAS

Grissom gathered the documents needed, knowing he had to give them to the receptionist at the front desk to fax for him. He checked, and double checked the numbers, knowing that if they went to the wrong departments, he would have at least triple the paperwork to correct the oversight, so he wanted to stand there to make sure everything was done properly. He looked around his empty office, knowing that Moira wouldn't be happy about him going near the front door without her shadowing him. But she needed the thirty minute break he had insisted on. She was still hurt, had very little sleep, trying to keep an eyes on him, and now she was more on edge without Sean here to back her up. Poking his head out of the office, he gave a small smile when he saw Nick coming down the hallway towards him.

"Nicky, walk with me," he instructed softly.

"What? The warden letting you out?" the younger man teased.

"Moira's on a break, and I'm only going to the front desk."

"And you know she'd skin you alive if you didn't at least take somebody?" Nick smirked, but sobered quickly at the look on Grissom's face. "Sure, come on." As they approached the front desk, Gil handed the papers to the woman sitting behind it. "Denise, I need you to fax these for me. The numbers are clipped to all of the pages." Grissom shook his head allowing a small smirk to cross his lips when he heard Nick flirting with one of the new techs.

"Sure, Grissom," Denise laughed, knowing what the night shift boss was shaking his head at. "You'd think he might grow out of that," she commented. "Oh, before I forget. Someone left this for you." She informed him, passing him a manilla padded mailer. She watched him look at the mailer, puzzled. "Not expecting anything? Maybe you have a secret admirer." She joked.

Grissom ripped open the mailer, feeling his stomach sink when he tipped it, and a small camera phone slid out into his hand. He frowned when it beeped. Opening it, he felt his blood run cold. There was a text message on the screen.

Listen very carefully, Mr. Grissom, and your mother will not be hurt. Get away without alerting anyone, especially the irishwoman. Go to the roof of the Monaco, alone. Once you arrive, your mother will be freed.

He forced his breathing to remain calm, not wanting to tip off either Nick or Denise. His blue eyes lifted quickly and he was relieved to see the woman focused on faxing the documents he gave her.

How do I know you have her?

He texted back to whoever was on the other end, and had to swallow back the bile at the image that greeted him. The picture was clearly taken with another phone camera. There, before his eyes, was his mother, sitting in the backseat of a car. She looked terrified.

Who are you?

Grissom had to concentrate on breathing, his body trembling when the expected answer came across the little screen.

Victor Tamatsura. And it's time we met. You have thirty minutes to get to the Monaco, or I will make certain she recieves a very painful death. Time starts now.

Grissom cursed inwardly when he saw the timer appear on the phone screen. He closed it quickly and pocketed it. He looked up, actually relieved when he saw Nick still talking to the tech.

"Nick," when the younger man looked up, he pointed back toward his office, letting him know he was done near the desk. With a quick stop at his desk to retrieve the spare set of keys for the Denali, he headed for the one place he knew Moira would not follow -- The men's room. Once inside, he checked all the stalls to make sure all were empty before locking the door. Opening the window, he jumped out, twisting his ankle on the bush that was underneath the window. After checking to make sure the coast was clear, he limped to the Denali. After taking a second to check how much time he had left. Twenty One minutes. Slipping the keys in the ignition, he pulled out, immediately heading toward the Monaco.

ROOF OF MONACO, LAS VEGAS

This was it, and Gil Grissom knew it. Moira and Sean had both warned him that when the final battle came, it would be on Victor Tamatsura's terms. Now, here he was, walking into the mouth of hell itself, unarmed, knowing his purpose...he was bait. His heart hurt for the position his own actions were putting Moira in. It was his decision to not tell his mother a thing, which brought her to Vegas, resulting in this. He was hoping Sean had made it out, but knowing what he knew about the large man, the odds weren't good. Stepping off the elevator, he headed for the stairs leading to the roof. Opening the door, his blue eyes immediately locked onto the form of his mother, tied to a chair. There was an Asian man standing behind her, holding a knife to her throat.

"I'm here, let her go," Gil ordered with more bravery than he felt. His eyes shot to the side when an older Asian man stepped from behind one of the large rotating vents. He knew immediately that this was Tamatsura. His own personal devil. He saw Tamatsura nod to the man behind his mother, and he froze momentarily thinking they might kill her anyways. He breathed a sigh of relief when the other man cut her loose and helped her to stand. His blue eyes hardened, and he glared when he heard Tamatsura laugh.

"I am a man of honor, Mr. Grissom. I said if you came alone, I would set her free, and I am," Victor taunted, which only seemed to make Gil angrier.

"You killed three innocent men, as well as your own wife and son to send a message to Moira. You don't know what honor means," he growled.

"You're right," Victor chuckled. "If I didn't need her to tell the irish woman where to come, I would have slit her throat fifteen minutes ago." He confessed, enjoying how the blood drained out of the scientist's face. "My little carrier pigeon has her message. Have Philip take her to the crime lab." he ordered his man. "No doubt Moira will have noticed your absence by now, Mr. Grissom." He motioned to the curve of the long roof. "Now, if you'll join Jin, he will strap you in your seat while we wait for Mrs. Kelly to arrive." Looking at the chair, despite all his faith in Moira's abilities, he couldn't help but feel as if neither of them would survive to see morning.

CRIME LAB, LAS VEGAS

Moira was turning the lab upside down, cursing herself for letting Gil talk her into taking a break. In her heart, she knew he wasn't in the building anymore. That Victor had made his move. But it still didn't stop her from checking.

"God damnit, Nick! Can't you stop thinking with your dick long enough to do one thing!" She roared, tossing a table.

"He couldn't have gotten far," Nick replied weakly. The other CSI's thought Moira was being a little hard on their friend, but two things prevented them from intervening. One, their own fear for their missing friend, and two, the irate woman in front of them was extremely dangerous and very well armed.

"I can tell you where he is. Victor has made his move, and all we can do is sit and wait for him to tell me where to come to retrieve him." She sat down, feeling defeated. She was channeling that anger and frustration, inwardly, knowing she would need it for what was coming.

"Moira, I'm sorry," Nick tried. "What can I do?" He looked up at Warrick only to find his friend looking at him sympathetically. Then it clicked, Warrick knew how he felt. He had dropped the ball with Holly Gribbs and the young CSI had paid the price for it. Nick knew he had screwed up, now Grissom could die, so could Moira. He stepped back away from the woman when he felt Catherine's hand on his shoulder.

"We can't just sit here and do nothing!" The small redhead protested.

"That's exactly what we have to do." Jim growled, not sure whether to shoot Nick, or just deck him. The kid had really been irresponsible this time, and it would most likely kill his cousin. "This is now Tamatsura's game. The only thing we have working in our favor is his vendetta with Moira. He won't kill Grissom, he needs him alive to draw her to whatever situation he has prepared." Jim's head snapped up when he heard Warrick curse and punch the wall in frustration.

"When that word comes, I'm going alone," Moira instructed, her tone leaving no room for argument. It still didn't stop Nick from trying. "I mean it, Nick, I'll shoot you, if that's the only way I can keep you here." Her eyes shot to the door when Elizabeth Grissom came barelling in, with three cops on her heels. "Jim..." She called for her cousin to call off his men, so that he could talk to Gil's mum.

That man has my son. He said you would know. Elizabeth signed frantically. You have to get him back! Moira held her hands for a moment, until some of the trembling subsided.

"Where?" she asked, knowing the older woman could read lips.

The roof of the Monaco Hotel. Please, bring him back to me! Elizabeth begged.

"I will, but where's Sean?" Moira asked, trying to prepare herself for the worst.

On the way to the bus station. They crashed into the SUV. They shot your man. I...I don't know if he's alive. I'm sorry. She signed, and Moira could see the pain for Sean in her eyes.

"Nick, you can do something for me. On the road leading to the bus station, you should find my SUV. Sean is inside, he's hurt. That young man means a lot to me, get him help, now." She instructed, holding Elizabeth's gaze.

"You got it!" Nick replied, just happy to have something to do. He nodded when Warrick said he wanted to come along.

"Sara, Catherine, I need you to make sure Bess stays here. I can't have anyone in the way." Moira knew both women would hate not being able to come along, but they all had their parts to play in this. "Jimmy, check on my son, make sure he's all right. I'll send you some kind of signal when this is over."

Jim Brass hated the way this played out, but he also knew that Moira would rather he keep protecting her only child, than her. He nodded weakly, taking his keys out of his pocket. She was right to be concerned. If Victor had any idea where the boy was, he was a larger target than even Grissom.

"Catherine, I need your keys," she looked at the redhead seriously, holding out her hand. She held Catherine's gaze as they were pressed into her palm.

"Be careful. You come back safe too. I'm not sure we'll be able to hold him together if you don't." The older woman admitted. She nodded when Catherine did, before heading out of the breakroom and out to the parking lot.

"You think she can do it?" Sara asked.

"Can she get Grissom back alive? Sure. Do I think she'll be alive to see him safe and sound? I certainly hope so. For Grissom's sake." Catherine answered, sincerely.

ROOF OF MONACO, LAS VEGAS

Moira stepped onto the roof of the Monaco, her body coiled ready for any surprises. She spun when a man rushed her, one of her knifes already in hand as she ducked low and plunged it into his abdomen. She planted her foot and jerked the blade up, slicing into the heart and killing him. As the body hit the ground, she turned slowly to face the sound of clapping.

"I see that your skills are still as sharp as ever...no pun intended," Tamatsura smirked. He watched Moira remove her jacket, tossing it to the ground. Taking a device out of his pocket, he slid it into his left hand, compressing a switch and sighing happily at the sound of the beep.

"Cut the crap, Victor, I'm here...where's Gil?" Moira snarled, ready to rip the old man's head off with her bare hands. She was running on pure adreniline, and knew she would need every ounce of it to get Grissom out of this alive.

"Isn't that cute? Still protecting the innocents from the big bad wolf," Victor taunted, tossing her the katana Jin had taken from her SUV. She caught it effortlessly, sliding it out of the sheath. "You want your scientist, follow me." Victor led her to the curve in the center of the roof, and Moira's eyes widened when she saw Gil strapped to the chair, sitting on enough C-4 to blow at least the top three floors off of the Monaco. Moira crouched down in front of the chair, fear and anxiety dulling the pain in her injured leg.

"Are you all right?" She asked, her fingers brushing his cheek. He was scared, that much was clear. But she was surprised to see anger in his eyes, as well as worry...not for himself, but for her. Gil held her gaze, feeling a sense of peace regarding his own fate.

"Moira, get out of here," he pleaded. He shook his head when she stroked his hair. "Please! I'm already dead. Get out of here."

"I'm sorry, I can't," she smiled, sadly. In her heart, she knew she could never leave him behind. "I have a promise to fulfill," she reminded him. She swore she would kill Victor, and in order to save the man she loved, she would have to finish this. "I love you, Gil," she confessed. She had no idea when, but this brilliant, quiet man had slid past her defenses. She pressed her forehead to his, before lowering her head to kiss his lips. Moving her body to shield her actions from Victor's eyes, she slid a hand up his chest. When she felt the crucifix laying there under his shirt, she clutched the material, compressing the sides of the item inwardly. Regardless of what happened to her, Jimmy had a way to find Gil.

"Touching," Victor sneered. "But it is time to end this," he added as Moira turned to face him. "But that should prove I have a heart, I let you say goodbye to your scientist."

"I'm going to prove that fact, when I cut it from your chest," Moira threatened, moving her sword into the defensive position as she circled him. Victor held out his left hand, revealing the detonator. Moira froze instantly.

"Before you continue making hollow threats, perhaps I should explain all of the details, my dear. I'm sure you noticed the explosives Mr. Grissom is sitting on?" he nodded toward the detonator in his hand. "This detonator is wired directly to those explosives. My thumb is compressing the switch. Now if I were to release it...let's just say they'll be mopping your boyfriend off the roof of this hotel." He smiled ferally. "Now I'd watch where you pointed that sword. Slicing my skin might cause me to accidentally drop this delicate piece of equipment."

Moira cursed inwardly, there was no way she would give Victor the satisfaction of seeing any outward concern that he had so obvious an advantage. She just had to stall him long enough for Jimmy to find them, then she would finish this bastard once and for all.

"This ends tonight, Victor," She growled, circling her prey.

"I couldn't agree more," he relpied, immediately lunging at her. Getting her sword up, she easily deflected his attacks, neither of them noticing Grissom flinching each time their swords came together. After a good five minutes of furious attacks, both combatants backed away, Victor panting from the exertion. Moira knew her injured leg should be throbbing, but she wasn't feeling anything due to the adreniline pumping through her system. Putting on a brave face, she smiled, taunting the old man. Turning away for a moment, she gripped her sword. She could sense Victor coming, but turned to look at Gil when he called out to her.

"Moira!" he warned, not wanting her to be blindsided. The distraction cost her. When she spun back toward Victor, his sword sliced across her torso, and she grit her teeth, feeling the warm blood flowing out on to her skin. Gil wanted to scream, to cry in sympathy, knowing it was him that had caused that wound. He had to stay silent. If he kept distracting her, he might as well be weilding Victor's sword himself. He watched Victor lunge at her again, she managed to dodge most of the blows, blocking them with her sword. Gil whimpered softly with each slice that managed to connect. Her shirt was coated with blood. He bit down on his lip when he saw the woman he loved take a kick to the midsection and go down. This was it. He needed to do something, she wasn't getting back up. "Victor!" he yelled when the old man raised his sword. The distraction was what Moira needed. As Victor brought his sword down, Moira got hers up and blocked the shot. He growled in frustration, angling the sword down and driving it through her injured thigh as she started to stand. Pinning her to the ground, he kicked the injured limb, snapping the weakened bone. Moira finally cried out when the broken end of bone was pushed through the skin. Turning, she kicked him away with her good leg, gritting her teeth through the pain when she forced herself to stand. She kept most of her weight on her good leg, trying to stop her head from swimming. This was it. She had to finish this, one way or another. The detonator Victor held, had to remain compressed.

"That all you have, old man?" She smiled, evilly. "Even your gobshite brother in law put up more of a fight," she needed him to charge her. "I was wrong, I'm not going to cut your heart out, I'm going to take your head, and give it to my scientist to play with." She taunted, knowing that would get him. With an angry yell, Victor charged her. She turned her body, gritting her teeth as Victor's sword passed through the meaty part of her side. Clamping her right hand over his left, she held on tight, making sure the detonator stayed compressed. Bringing her own sword down, she sliced his left hand completely, leaving her in possession of the detonator. Moira pulled away, his sword still stuck in her body as his right hand clutched around his left wrist. She hobbled a few steps back, gripping her sword tightly. "This is for Colm, and for Danny, and Thomas. And this is for your son, the only Tamatsura I've ever met worth a damn," she planted her foot, and swung, cutting his head from his body. She had turned around, and was already limping back toward Gil before she heard the head hit the ground.

"Oh, God, Moira, I'm so sorry," Gil could feel his blue eyes filling with tears. She was coated in blood, and he could see the pain in her face. His hands itched to help her when she collapsed to her knees in front of him. She still had Victor's hand clenched in hers. Withdrawing a small kit from underneath her holster, she pulled a pair of small clippers. With trembling fingers, she moved through the wires, looking for the right ones. With a few snips, she had the bomb defused, and finally allowed herself to relax.

"It's over," she rasped, feeling her vision start to darken. "You can stand up, the bomb is diffused." she tossed the hand away uselessly, and drew a knife from her shoulder holster. "I need you to turn around," she managed, using her hands more than sight to feel for the ropes binding his hands. With a quick cut, he was free, and the knife clattered to the ground. Gil immediately turned to draw her into his arms.

"Don't you leave me," he said, adamantly. "I know it hurts, honey, just hang on, please!" he pleaded, intensely.

"I fulfilled my promise, Victor is no threat to you. You can have your life back," she smiled weakly, her hand coming up to stroke his face, leaving a streak of blood on his cheek.

"But what's it worth without you?" he asked, honestly. And he realized, in a little over a month, this woman had brought a light into his life that he wasn't sure he could live without. Gil's eyes snapped up when he heard the heavy footfalls of someone running toward them. He had hoped it was Jim, but his face paled when he saw that it wasn't. The man looked at the body of his dead boss, and his eyes narrowed on the other two. Lifting his gun, he intended to finish the woman. Gil was thankful Moira had been so adamant about him always wearing his vest. There was always a chance the rounds could be armor piercing, but he didn't care. His instincts were screaming at him to protect the woman he loved. Curling his body around hers, he rolled, leaving his back to absorb the shot. He grunted in pain as the three shots inpacted with his back, but did not pierce the vest. Grabbing one of the guns from Moira's holster, he turned to face and eliminate the threat. Before he could get all the way around, six shots rang out through the air. He saw Jim and O'Reilly running up through the door. "JIM!" he called with a mixture of fear and relief. O'Reilly stopped to cuff the bleeding man while Jim moved toward his cousin. He kneeled next to Moira, managing a scared smile at the sight before him.

"Is he all right?" Moira asked desperately.

"Yeah, he's fine. He's in the truck. Victor made a run at him. There were yakuza bodies when I got there, the Tong were holding down the fort. They told me to tell you the debt has been paid." He laid a hand on her head when her back arched in pain. "Shhh, paramedics are on their way. They were a step behind us when we got here."

"He's safe," she sighed in relief.

"Yeah, they're both safe, thanks to you. Just rest, we'll be with you the whole time," Jim looked toward the door, his heart nearly jumping when he saw the paramedics coming through the door. "Over here!" he called out. "Take them both, same ambulance." he instructed, having seen Grissom peel off the vest with the three rounds lodged in the back. "Take her down on the stretcher, I'll help him."

"She have any allergies we should know about?" The Paramedic asked, putting an oxygen mask on Moira's face.

"Just Codeine, other than that, nothing." Jim answered, helping Gil with his shirt.

"How did you find us?" Grissom asked, never once taking his eyes off of Moira as the Paramedics secured her.

"The crucifix she gave you at the hospital. Moira gave me the back up reciever. She must have found a way to turn it on. I got the signal about ten minutes ago. I called O'Reilly from the car," Jim explained, draping his friend's arm over his shoulder as he steered them to the elevator right behind Moira's stretcher. "I want these two kept together as much as possible," he told the paramedics.

"I'm sorry, sir, only family..." the paramedic began, but Brass cut him off.

"I am family, she's my cousin. She has a fourteen year old son, Danny. He's in the car. If you check her medical file, I make the decisions for her treatment." He told them. He looked down at Moira, his brow furrowing. She was starting to fade out. "Hey, talk to her," he told Grissom, but grit his teeth when the other man looked at him helplessly. "Moira!" he called his cousin, his voice louder, to try and get her to focus.

"Jimmy? Where's Danny? Where's Gil?" She asked weakly, as they came off the elevator on the ground floor. The moment they cleared the front door, a young boy ran up to them.

"Uncle Jimmy?" Daniel Kelly looked at the woman on the stretcher with wide eyes. Despite the fact that the green eyes of the woman were glassy and filled with pain, he could clearly see, they were his eyes.

"I want you to ride up front with the driver, Danny." Brass instructed as he helped Grissom to the side of the ambulance. Hauling him in through the side door, he dumped him off in the forward jump seat and belted him in. Stepping back out, he opened the passenger door up front. "Danny, we gotta get them to the hospital. I need you to ride up here," Jim suggested gently. "I'm gonna ride in back with your mom."

"Why can't I...?" The boy began.

"Because they might need medical information that only I can answer right now. Your mom is tough kid, she's gonna fight. The best thing you can do for her right now is make sure she gets the best care possible." He gave the kid a weak smile when the boy nodded and climbed in the ambulance. By the time Jim went around to get in the back, Moira's stretcher was already inside. Gil was at her head, leaning over stroking the hair off of her damp forehead. He held his breath, offering a silent prayer that his cousin could make it. With Victor gone, she could reclaim her place in Danny's life. And there was no telling how Gil would react if she gave up.

"Let's go!" The Paramedic called to his partner after getting the IV started in Moira's arm.

ST. MATTHEW'S HOSPITAL - LAS VEGAS

Grissom had been checked out and cleared with only bumps and bruises. He had a good size bruise on his right flank from the impact of the bullets on his vest, but he was still alive. Jimmy, true to his word, had cleared things with the hospital and Grissom was allowed to come and go in Moira's room as he pleased. She had just gotten out of surgery ten minutes ago, to rebuild her broken leg, the surgeons putting in pins to hold the bones steady while they healed. With all her lacerations, the doctors had put in a total of 354 stitches, both internal and external. But the hardest thing to deal with for the three men that loved her most, was the coma she was in. The doctor's told them not to worry, that it was the body's way of forcing itself to heal, but Gil couldn't help the sinking feeling in his stomach.

"Here," Jim passed Gil the coffee, and moved off to give Danny his hot chocolate. "I called the lab. Sara and Catherine are bringing your mom. Nick, and Warrick will be down in about five minutes. They brought Sean in. Victor tried to take him out when he took your mom." He explained.

"Is he okay?" Gil asked, feeling his guilt nearly double. He swallowed thickly, forcing the coffee around the lump in his throat.

"The kid is doing okay. Took two shots to the vest, one shot passed through the body, but missed anything vital. He told Nick your mom saved his life. Said the guy was about to put one in the head when she intervened." Jim told his friend. "Other than that, bumps, bruises, and a killer concussion from the initial crash. Lab rat is on his way, figured we could use the extra set of hands on deck."

"Captain Brass?" The nurse asked, waiting to see which of the two men would look at her. "I've been sent to retrieve you. Doctor Collins will be joining us, and he wants to brief you on your cousin's condition." Jim nodded wordlessly before turning back to face the other two men in the room. "Danny, stay here with your mom and Gil, I'll be right back."

"Uncle Jim..." the boy protested. He didn't want his uncle to try and protect him from this. It was his mom, and he deserved to know just how bad things were.

"Whatever they say, I'll let you know, I promise," he assured the boy before following the nurse out of the room. Daniel Kelly seemed to accept that. When Jim was gone, he turned his attention toward the man by his mother's bed. His uncle had explained that the man was a scientist, whose life had been threatened by the same man that had murdered his father and uncles. It was in protecting this man, that had put his mom in this condition. He was surprised to realize he wasn't angry about that. This man, Gil, had his head down, hand desperately clutching his mom's good one. Uncle Jim said he was a good man. Part of the boy, like any other boy, wanted his parents together. But after talking to his uncle, he was trying to be fair, and realistic. His father was dead, and he could clearly see that this man, Gil Grissom, cared a great deal for his mother. Danny was convinced that his father would want his mother happy...if Gil Grissom was necessary to that happiness, than he would make an effort to go out of his way to include him. Sitting the chair down on the opposite side of her bed, he watched the man carefully as he sat down. Part of him wanted to smile, Gil Grissom still hadn't taken his eyes off the woman that was so important to both of them.

"Uncle Jim said the man she killed, he murdered my dad and my uncles. Is that true?" Danny tried, wanting to know what the other man had witnessed up on that roof. He saw the older man nod. Grissom seemed to be trying to find his voice. "I get why he came after my family, why did this guy want you?"

"I...I testified in a case, his nephew was convicted. Sentenced to two consecutive life sentences," Gil replied, his voice rough with emotion. He reached up to stroke the hair off of Moira's head, but his hand froze, his fist clenching as he realized who was in the room with him. Moira's son. This must have been what she meant when she said that Jim protected her greatest treasure. It wasn't his place to comfort the women in the bed. He had lost that right when his own foolishness had allowed Victor Tamatsura to keep Moira so handicapped during that fight. But something inside of him coiled tight, and he cursed his own weakness. He didn't deserve her, but he needed her.

"I..." Danny paused, wondering why he felt like he could talk to this man. Perhaps it was the helplessness they both shared. Both of them depending very much on the strength of the woman laying in the bed. Gil Grissom actually seemed worse off than he did. "Uncle Jim showed me the file on this guy. He was...evil. I'm glad she was able to help you, and end this." His father was avenged, and it gave him a certain amount of peace, knowing that.

"I'm sorry," Gil replied, his voice tight with emotion.

"What for? It wasn't your fault this guy came after you," Danny asked puzzled. From what he read in the file, Victor Tamatsura didn't need a reason to come after anyone. At least his mom had known what to expect. This guy was a scientist. Probably would have been dead within a week if it wasn't for his mom. Part of Danny Kelly wanted to be angry with his mom, for giving him up, moving on with her life, without him. There had been times in his childhood that he had distinctly felt the lack of that important maternal figure. But after reading the Tamatsura file, he understood, mostly. To save him, she had given him up. It couldn't have been easy. He wanted a chance to get to know his mother. But he also realized that growing up without her for these twelve years gave him a slight advantage -- if he wanted to call it that. He had lived twelve years without his mom, but as much as that fact hurt, he knew that if she died, he could survive. The man sitting across from him looked like he was holding on by a thread. And if his mom died, that thread would snap. It actually made him feel sorry for the guy. "You care about her." He remarked. It wasn't exactly a question, just an observation.

"No," Grissom replied, feeling overwhelmed by guilt. He knew if Moira survived, things would have to change, mostly with him. No more hiding, she didn't deserve him hiding behind excuses. And in loving her, he had to open his life to this boy as well. "I don't just care about her. Your mother is the most amazing woman I have ever known. I'm sorry, but care just isn't a strong enough word. I love her," he rasped, swallowing thickly around the emotion.

"Are you?" Danny asked, looking at the man before him curiously. He smiled slightly when Grissom looked at him blankly. "Sorry. Are you sorry that you love her?" He explained. He wouldn't settle for half assed answers. His family had clearly been through hell these last dozen years. His mother being alone, fighting all kinds of evils so that he could live safe and happy. It was either all or nothing. He wanted the truth from Gil Grissom, and what he said next would determine whether he would open their lives to take this chance or not. He saw Gil swallow thickly, it looked like he was trying to gather his nerve.

"Never." the older man responded, his tone serious. He could never let the boy think that, no matter how uncomfortable this revelation was making him. "Your mother deserves the world," he only wished he could be the one to give it to her.

"That was hard for you to admit that, wasn't it?" Danny asked, eyeing Gil curiously. He smiled faintly when the older man nodded. "Tell me about her? She's my mom, and the only thing I know about her is what Uncle Jim told me."

Brass stepped into the office to find the doctor sitting behind the desk. He felt his heart sink into his shoes, hoping the look on the doctor's face was all a front.

"Come in, Captain Brass," Doctor Jenkins said, reaching for a thick file. "Please, have a seat." he added, motioning to the chair in front of his desk. "The patient..." He paused when Jim cut him off.

"Moira, her name is Moira." He would be damned if he let this doctor reduce his family to the status of 'patient.'

"My apoligies, Captain. Moira, as you already know, has slipped into a coma. We're not as concerned about that, because we had planned to induce a coma pharmacologically. Frankly, her body needs a chance to heal. She lost enough blood for us to be worried, but with a rapid infusion of two units, her vitals seem to have stabilized. The next twenty-four hours should tell us everything." He flipped a page on the chart, "As for her leg, we've set pins until the bone has a chance to heal on it's own. She'll need physical therapy, I can recommend some excellent freelance nurses if she'll need help getting around while she's at home."

"That won't be necessary," Brass explained. "She has me, Danny, and just about everyone on the midnight shift on the crime lab. The one thing we're not short of, is hands."

"That said, there was one bit of information that was surprising. Especially considering the trauma her body has suffered in the last twenty four hours," The doctor lifted his eyes to meet Jim's. "The baby is fine. We were worried about the child given Moira's volume of blood loss, but with the rapid infusion, it seems fine. We did an ultrasound while she was in surgery." He withdrew the picture and passed it to Jim. "The baby is about five weeks along as far as we can tell," he explained, noting from the way the color drained from the other man's face, he hadn't known about the pregnancy.

"Baby..." he gasped, gripping the ultrasound picture numbly. This complicated things. Gil was already about to submerge under the tide of his martyr complex. The guy was hanging on by a thread, if he knew there was a kid in the mix as well...

"I take it you know the father?" The doctor asked.

"Uh...yeah. And don't say a word. I'll tell him, when I think he can handle the news," Brass said adamantly.

"The father is the gentleman that refused to be parted from your cousin?" he nodded when Brass did.

"Gil Grissom, yeah. I've known him a long time. Right now, he's barely holding it together. If he knows about the baby before she comes out of her coma -- we might not get humpty dumpty back together again." Jim sat back in his chair, wiping a hand over his face as if he was trying to wipe away the exhaustion. He turned his head, hearing a group of people coming down the hall. Standing up, he turned to see Catherine, Lindsey, Greg, Sara, Mrs. Grissom, and O'Reilly. "I mean it doc, I don't want anyone talking about that baby while he's around." Brass warned.

"Understood," the doctor replied.

Jim nodded, before stepping out into the hall. He wasn't sure what to do with the weight of what he had just been told. Of the group in front of him, he felt Catherine was the one who could offer a little guidance.

"Cath, can I talk to you a second?" he asked.

"Lindsey, stay with Greg, I'll be right there." She instructed her daughter. The little girl didn't protest in the slightest. Everyone seemed to be on edge, ever since this Moira person had been hurt. She understood Jim being bad off, he was her family, but she must be a heck of a person to have affected everyone else.

"Jim, I think I'm going to pop up and see Sean," Sara suggested. "You know what room he's in?" She asked Brass.

"Yeah, he's in 5212. He'd be happy to see you. Nick and Warrick should have just left." Jim told her. He saw Catherine watching Lindsey leave with Greg and Mrs. Grissom. As soon as they were clear of the hallway, she pinned Jim with a heated gaze.

"How is she? How is Grissom doing? Do they know anything?" She spared O'Reilly a barb too. "Please tell me the DA isn't going to file charges."

"No, no charges. Apparently, your cousin thought ahead, she's been filtering all info to the DA. Including Brian's part in this mess. DA said the deaths on that roof, and outside the kid's place will be filed as gangland deaths. Moira is 100 in the clear." O'Reilly explained, passing over the official paperwork to Jim.

"Good. Now, we have a slight complication. Gil is Gil," Jim started.

"Which means he's blaming himself for both Sean, and Moira." Catherine finished with a frown.

"Exactly. He nearly had a fit on scene when the Medics tried to seperate them. The only time he's let her out of his sight was when she was in surgery for her leg." He nodded, seeing the understanding in her eyes. They had known Gil Grissom longer than any of the other CSI's, they understood the precarious position they were all in. She also realized that Jim was asking for her help to keep their family together. "There's an even bigger complication the doctor just told me about." Catherine looked into his eyes, trying to see what he was trying to tell her. Jim just held her gaze and let her look.

"No!" she gasped, seeing the truth of it there in his face.

"Someone want to translate for those of us that aren't telepathic?" O'Reilly demanded.

"Moira is pregnant," Catherine said, leaning against the wall.

"Whoa, I knew they were close, but...is it Grissom's?" O'Reilly found himself shoved against the wall by an angry Jim.

"You calling my cousin a whore? My cousin has loved two men in her life. One was murdered by that headless monster on the roof, and the other is sitting by her bed, barely holding it together," He growled, his fist balled up. Catherine immediately got between them, pushing Jim away.

"Jim, calm down. I don't think that's what he was saying at all," Catherine said. "Right, O'Reilly?"

"Right." the other cop answered, a little surprised at his friend's reaction. He supposed it was a stupid question. Moira had been working so hard to keep everyone safe in this mess. The only person she had really been around 24-7 was Grissom and Sean. And even he noticed the relationship between Moira and Sean was more like a mother and son than lovers.

"He's not ready to know yet," Jim supplied, rubbing the tension from his neck. "He's not even dealing with the idea that he might lose Moira well. If he knows he might lose his child too, it'll finish him."

"Look, I'll take him down to the cafeteria and find out what's going through his head," Catherine offered, holding up a hand when Jim opened his mouth. "I agree, he's not ready to know about the baby. Not right now. But we can't keep this from him forever. If I talk to him, it'll give me an idea of what we're dealing with." She put her hand on Jim's shoulder. "Let me worry about Grissom, you have enough on your plate with Moira and her son." She smiled when he nodded. "Okay, let's go join the crowd," she added, allowing Jim to lead the way. As they entered Moira's room, they were surprised by the sight that was laid out before them. Grissom was next to Moira's bed, clutching her hand in his. Warrick was seated next to him, the two men having a whispered conversation. Mrs. Grissom was on her son's other side, silent, just content to lay a reassuring hand in the middle of Grissom's back. Lindsey was sitting on the couch patiently, watching the television on low. Nick and Greg, were sitting on the each side of Danny, the young boy playing one of those new PSP's. Everyone's head raised automatically when Brass re-entered the room.

"She's stable, for now. Doc said next twenty four hours will tell us more. They're not concerned about the coma as much, they had planned on inducing one anyways. Leg should heal up nicely after some serious physical therapy." Jim explained. "What ya got there, Danny?"

"Oh, PSP, Greg brought it. Thought I could use something to help pass the time while we wait. He brought a bunch of games too." Danny smiled, going back to his game now that he knew the status of his mom.

"Thanks, Greg," Brass looked at the kid, greatfully.

"No sweat," Greg smiled. "I got some more games at home, I'll bring them by tomorrow. These were just the ones I had in my locker."

"I checked with the nurse too. If Danny wants, they gave us permission to bring in my X-Box 360 and hook it up to the TV there," Nick offered. His heart went out to the kid, having to wait for his mom to wake up. If they could take some time out of their schedules, and help take his mind off it, so much the better. He saw Jim look at Danny silently, holding the boy's gaze for a minute.

"All right, go ahead and bring it. Just keep it down, okay?" Jim conceeded, not wanting to disturb the other patients in the wing. He was thankful to Greg and Nick, for trying to make things easier for Danny. Especially considering the situation wasn't easy for anyone.

"Grissom, come on," Catherine walked behind her friend. She nearly smiled when he shook his head, just like she expected him to. "I know you don't want to step out of this room, but it won't kill you to leave for a half an hour. We're just going to the cafeteria for coffee." When he looked like he was going to dig in his heels, she played her last card. "Grissom, you look like hell. If Moira wakes up, you think she wants to see you like this? Take a half an hour to collect yourself. I promise, we won't leave the hospital." She conceeded, resisting a smile when he stood, hesitantly. "Come on, everyone will still be here when you get back." She smiled faintly as she practically pulled him out of the room.

CAFETERIA

Catherine sat at the table while Grissom carried the tray. She gave him several seconds of silence to gather himself, before she started. Picking up her coffee, she added the sugar, and cream. When she sensed him still, she looked up.

"So how are you holding up?" She asked, sensing that he was about to tense up on her. "If you say 'I'm fine,' I swear I will beat you to death with one of these chairs," She added, with a knowing smile. Reaching out her hand, she covered his, gently. "It's not a crime to be scared," she reminded him.

"I'm...That madman had me strapped to a bomb, and I still wasn't as scared as I am now," He admitted, hanging his head. "The fight, it was brutal. Swords...he used me to keep the upper hand. She had to let that lunatic stab her to end it," His voice was thick with emotion.

"I can't begin to imagine what the two of you went through up there. Moira's told us for months that this fight would be done on Victor's terms...but even then, having a front row seat couldn't have been easy." She rubbed her thumb over his hand in an attempt tp soothe. "O'Reilly brought word from the DA, apparently Moira has been feeding him details from the beginning, including Brian's involvement." She smiled gently when he looked up. "They're not going to prosecute. Gangland killing, plain and simple."

"Good. She...Moira told me from the beginning, she might have to do some things that we put people away for. I wondered how I would feel when it came down to it. But seeing what she had to go through on that roof, for me -- I would feel like the biggest of hypocrites if she were prosecuted for it." Gil admitted.

"So...is it time to push yet?" Catherine asked, amused at the confused look on his face. "Before, when we talked about you and your lady. You said you were worried about pushing. This thing is over, you're still breathing, so is she. So...is it time to push?"

"Catherine!" Gil snapped.

"Don't 'Catherine' me!" She took a deep breath, calming her nerves. "Look, you're one of my closest friends, but when it comes to human relationships, you are about as repressed as they come. Now, normal people, after a close call, would become closer. But I've learned, long ago, that you aren't like most people." She squeezed his hand to get him to look at her again. "So, Mr. Repressed, you finally gonna let someone in? Or are you just waiting for her to get out of the hospital before you throw the walls back up?"

"I don't know..." Grissom trailed off weakly.

"What's to know? You either love her enough to fight, or get out now," She pointed out, starting to get a sinking feeling in her stomach. Grissom's stubborness was legendary. For both his and Moira's sake, she hoped he could overcome it.

"You sound like my mother," he smiled, sadly. "I just can't help feeling that it's not safe..."

"Not safe! Grissom, Tamatsura is dead." She stopped herself, recognizing the look on his face. "You mean with you." She ammended, knowingly. "What exactly do you think Moira did before she met you? Sell girl scout cookies? She's a mercenary, bodyguard, whatever. She probably saw more danger in a week that we see all year. You can't take this Tamatsura thing into account, it's not the norm for you."

"Catherine..."

"Gil, don't do this. You deserve to be happy, so does she. You have a real chance here. You found a woman who loves you, in spite of all your...quirks." She pleaded, knowing a little more about the situation than the man sitting across from her.

"Catherine, whatever happens..." Gil shook his head, not knowing how to finish his thoughts. Inwardly, he could feel himself panicking. He knew he loved Moira Kelly, but things were just happening before he could process them.

"Grissom, you can't tuck things back in their nice, neat little compartments anymore." Catherine tried to explain. "Everything is out in the open, and if you try and force it back, you're not the only one that stands to be hurt here." She grit her teeth when her old friend stood suddenly.

"I have to..." Gil winced inwardly at the unintentional double meaning. He wanted to shout his feelings from the rooftops, that he loved Moira with everything in him. But he couldn't help but feel that where she was now, was his fault. He wouldn't blame her is she never wanted to see him again. She had her son back, she deserved a chance to get to know Danny without an emotionally crippled middle aged scientist getting in the way. "I should go home. I have some paperwork to finish..." He broke off, knowing Catherine wouldn't accept any answer he offered. Turning in his heel, he left the cafeteria, and walked numbly out of the hospital. It was the hardest thing he had ever done, walking away from his heart.

"Of all the stubborn, pigheaded..." Catherine cursed under her breath getting up to throw away their tray. She didn't relish telling Brass about Gil's reaction. Things couldn't be allowed to remain like they were. She found it actually kind of ironic. Moira Kelly was only a little easier than Gil Grissom to get to know. They really did make a good couple. Unlike her and Eddie, Gil and Moira knew each others faults, had seen each other at their worst, and still loved deeply, in spite of what they saw. The one major fault she saw in both of them, was that they were both entirely too selfless. Both would do anything for the other, even if that decision made them utterly miserable. Normally, she would leave it alone, they were both adults after all. But it wasn't just the two of them that would be affected this time. And since Moira was unconscious, and Gil was being stubborn, someone had to fight for what was best for that baby. With a resigned sigh, she headed back upstairs. Someone had to talk to Brass.

MOIRA'S ROOM - 3 DAYS LATER

"I got you now, Nick!" Danny cried, working the controller furiously. He thrust his fist into the air in victory when he won the necessary points to beat the CSI. He grinned over the older man's head at Greg, who had been patiently waiting his turn.

"You're getting far too good at this," Nick smiled.

"Thanks for bringing the system here," Danny replied. He might have been young, but he wasn't blind. In the last three days, Nick, Warrick and Greg had gone out of their ways to distract him from worrying about his mom. And they had succeeded. For that, he would always be greatful. Sparing a look over at the bed, his green eyes turned slightly sad seeing his uncle Jim talking to Mrs. Grissom. The older woman had been here almost every spare minute, sitting with his mom when he had to go to school, or his uncle needed a break. His heart went out to the old woman. She seemed to be carrying the guilt of the fact that her son had decided not to come around anymore. He was about to turn back to the game, when something caught his attention. Danny's head snapped back to the bed and he gasped when it happened again. "Uncle Jim! Look at her foot," he said, getting up from the couch, and heading for the bed.

Jim was out of his chair like a shot. Standing at the side of her bed. He reached up, stroking her hair off of her brow. Inwardly, his guts were twisting into knots, as if he could wake her up by force of will alone.

"Come on, M, open those green eyes for me," he pleaded, not even noticing that the others had stood and joined him nearby. "Moira, you got a lot of people that still need you here. But you gotta open your eyes and come back."

"Jimmy?" Moira rasped, her dry throat launching her into a coughing fit. Jim felt someone push a glass of water into his hand and he cupped his hand behind her neck, lifting her head to tip the water down her throat .

"Easy," he cooed, pulling the cup back after a few moments. He laid her head back gently, smiling when she opened her eyes, looking at him tiredly. "Welcome back," he breathed. "I got a few people here been wanting to see you," he looked up at Danny, waiting for Moira's gaze to follow his.

"My god, you look like your father!" Moira's eyes widened. Holding her arms up weakly, Danny leaned over into her embrace.

"Yeah, but Uncle Jim says I got your eyes. I didn't realize how right he was until now," the boy mumbled against her neck. He felt her start to tremble and knew she was starting to cry. He hugged her a little tighter, careful not to hurt her. "It's okay, mom, everybody's safe. You did it." He whispered in her ear.

"Sean..." She gasped, immediately looking at Jim as Danny pulled back. The boy went to back away from the bed, but smiled when his mother gripped his hand, and held him by her side. He sat on the edge of the mattress.

"He's fine, everybody's safe. Sara even brought him down in his wheelchair to sit with you. Probably would have camped out if the doctors hadn't forced him to go." He smiled. "There's some other people here to see you." He waved the others forward. He watched her look around, and her bruised face fall when she noticed the absence of a certain person. Damnit, he wanted to punch Gil Grissom in the nose for the look of pain that crossed his cousin's face. "Moira..."

"Jimmy, don't," she snapped, but forced a smile when she saw Elizabeth Grissom's smiling face. "Hello, Bess. I'm glad to see that you're all right," she offered, giving a slight nod when the woman touched her free hand. She could see the sadness and understanding in the older woman's eyes. But both of them were powerless. It wasn't as if they could put Gil Grissom in a headlock to force him to be here. Even though if she knew Jim, he still might try precisely that.

Thank you, Elizabeth Grissom signed. Both women knew the thanks extended for more than just her own life.

"I've seen you look better," Greg commented with a smirk, stepping forward.

"You should see the other guy," Moira joked, weakly, smiling when the others laughed.

"I have seen the other guy," Greg countered. "Remind me not to get on your bad side."

"Smart kid like you, doesn't need a reminder," Moira replied.

"You got that right," the young CSI grinned.

"How's the shoulder?" Moira asked, still bothered by the fact that she wasn't able to keep the kid from injury.

"It's good. Cast comes off next week. Little PT after that and I'll be good as new. Got a sexy new scar as a conversation piece," Greg pouted when he heard Nick and Warrick make sounds of amusement. "Hey!" he went to glare at them both, and noted the distinct absence of someone very important. "Um...guys? Where's Brass?"

"Damnit," Moira cursed. She knew where he had gone. "Nick, Warrick, I need you two to go to Gil's and see if you can head him off. If I know my cousin, that's where he's gone." Moira was angry with Jim, but too tired to do anything...yet. If he hurt Gil, she would flatten him when she was healed.

"You got it," Warrick replied, dragging Nick out the door. Neither CSI agreed with the way Grissom had been behaving in the last three days, but they also didn't want Brass to put him in the hospital. It wasn't that they couldn't understand the gruff captain's feelings. If it was their family in this position, they'd be pretty steamed too. But as emotionally stunted as Grissom could be...he didn't deserve to bear the entire brunt of Jim's anger.

"Greg, I need you to go to the nurses station and call O'Reilly. Do what you have to do, but track him down, and send him to Gil's." Moira instructed him.

"Okay, but why O'Reilly?"

"To stop a mad bull, you need a mad bull. Without me or Sean, he stands the best chance of getting through to Jimmy." She anxiously bit her lip as Greg left the room. She turned her head when Elizabeth Grissom stepped forward.

I'm sorry. It seems that's all I can say to you. It's my fault he is he way he is. The older woman signed.

"Bess," Moira sighed, tiredly. "We all have our own emotional demons. It's not your fault." She held out her hand, smiling when the older woman took it, sitting on her other side.

"Mom, there's something else, something that I think is fueling Uncle Jim's anger," Danny said, squeezing her hand to get her attention. "When the doctor's briefed him on your condition, they had a bit of news I don't think anyone expected." He took a deep breath, still not sure how he felt about the news himself. "I guess there's no easy way to put it, other than to just come out and say it...you're pregnant." He rushed to reassure her when her eyes widened in shock. "The baby is fine. It looks like you're about five or six weeks along." He paused, gathering the nerve to ask the all important question. "Mom, is Gil the father?" he asked.

"Yes," she answered, numbly. They had only had the chance to be together the one time. And now she was having another child. Nervously, she looked over at her son, her fourteen year old son.

"Danny..."

"Mom, it's okay, really. Honestly, I don't know how I feel about knowing this kid is going to get what I never did, a mom and a dad." He put his hand up when she started to interrupt. "I know, Uncle Jim always drilled it into my head, that you didn't give me up willingly. That you sent me away to protect me. But...it still doesn't take away from the feeling of being abandoned. Don't get me wrong, Uncle Jim has been great...but growing up, seeing all my friends with one or both their parents, it was hard."

"I'm sorry..." Moira choked out.

"BUT...the big brother in me, he wants this kid to have everything. Being a big brother, it's...it's gonna be pretty cool. We never got a chance to be a family, not after dad died. But we have a chance now. From everything I've been told, I want to get to know you. And I want you to know me. I know that's going to take time -- but nothing says we can't get to know this baby while we get to know each other." He smiled sheepishly, hoping to soothe his mother's anxiety.

"How did you get to be so wise?" She asked in amazement.

"Good genes," Danny replied dryly, teasing his mother. "Mom, I know you loved dad, it's one of the few memories of the two of you I have. We were happy. But he's dead, and I'm not going to ask you to spend your life alone, mourning him. If you find someone you love, and know that he loves you. Take it. After everything this family has been through, you deserve it. Just because you love someone else, doesn't mean you love dad any less." He smiled when she cupped his cheek, leaning into her touch.

"I hope I'm as brave and sure as you are when I grow up," she smiled, her green eyes welling with tears, but they were happy tears. She had her son back. The main danger to his life, the murderer of her husband and brother, was dead. And now she was expecting another child. She turned to face one of the other people this news directly affected. "How do you feel about all of this?" she asked Elizabeth Grissom.

Two months ago, I was a woman, worried for her son, with no hope of ever seeing grandchildren. Mrs. Grissom began. Now, I have a woman I know loves my son with her entire heart, and have two wonderful grandchildren. I'm eccstatic, she grinned at the younger woman.

"That's why you've been apologizing, you knew about the baby," Moira mumbled, more to herself than anything.

"Bess has been great, mom. And she's been teaching me sign language. If you don't mind...she said I could call her grandma," Danny asked tentatively.

"Why would I mind?" She looked up at Gil's mother, thankfully. In accepting Danny as her grandson, long before her biological grandchild was born, Bess was laying the foundation for the family that Gil had always wanted, and that she lost the day Victor Tamatsura murdered her husband and brother. She felt a warmth pass through her at the light in both Danny and Bess' eyes. It was the answer both had been hoping for.

I have two requests to make, Bess began, Moira clearing seeing the nervousness in her blue eyes. She definately knew who Gil got his expressive eyes from. Until you are fully healed, don't make any decisions on whether you are staying here, 'here' meaning Vegas, and the United Stated. She knew Moira was from Ireland. And legally, she could take both of her children back with her, and she would never see her grandchildren. And if you decide to stay, let me help you.

"Bess, now that the danger to Danny is gone, I...I intend to stay in Vegas, regardless of whether Gil comes around or not. My son's life is here, and Jimmy is here. We'll be here, and if you like, during Danny's vacations from school, we would be more than happy to visit you in California." She grinned when the older woman sighed in relief. Elizabeth Grissom was a warm, loving woman. There was no way in hell she would deny her children such a grandmother.

Thank you, Bess replied, her blue eyes watering with emotion. Now she only hoped her son would get his head on straight and fight for this amazing family.

You're Welcome, Moira signed back, before allowing her hands to fall back to the bed tiredly.

GIL GRISSOM'S HOUSE

Grissom looked up from the frying pan when someone knocked on his front door loudly. He was taking ten minutes to make himself some stir fry in between research, and hadn't really expected anyone to interrupt him. That wasn't entirely true, he hadn't expected anyone to interrupt him yet. The shifts usually started about noon, and carried on through the shift. Catherine, Warrick, Nick...even Greg had all braved his door, giving him updates on Moira's condition, informing him that they thought his behaviour regarding her -- or as Catherine called it, his cowardice -- was not appreciated. But he knew, looking around his place, the fact that he had yet to take down his blackout curtains, proved Catherine was right. He was hiding. Even his mother, when she wasn't at the hospital, had him pinned down, reading him the riot act and making him feel as if he were five years old once again. Turning off the burner, he made his way to the front door. It dawned on him that the only two people that hadn't come to see him were Sara -- who hadn't left Sean's side on her down time -- and ...

"Jim," he stated as he opened the door. That was about a half a second before a fist impacted with his nose and pain exploded behind his eyes. Hearing the tell tale crunch of his nose breaking, he staggered back, not even noticing that Brass had shown himself in through the open door, closing it behind him. Instinctively, he flinched when he felt hands on him, steering him toward the couch and sitting him down. Gil leaned forward when a few seconds later, he felt the dish towel being pressed into his hand. He held it over his nose, trying to staunch the flow of blood.

"You deserved that, and you know it," Jim stated gruffly, leaning his hip against the chair as he waited for Grissom to gather himself. Truthfully, the blow had taken the head off of his anger, at least he knew he could talk to the man without wanting to shoot him anymore. "In case you still care, she woke up about an hour ago."

"Of course I care, what do you take me for!" Gil protested, but the sound was muffled by the towel over his nose.

"You mean other than the emotionally retarded guy that left my cousin hanging?" Brass asked sarcastically. "She has been shot, stabbed, sliced and almost blown up saving your sorry ass. What I'd like to know is what else does she have to do to prove to you that she's willing to fight for you?" He growled. "Too bad you can't extend the same courtesy."

"Jim..." Grissom sighed, closing his eyes home in a pain that had nothing to do with his throbbing nose.

"Don't 'Jim' me, Gil. How long have we known each other?" He asked, his anger starting to gather steam. "Twenty years, and you think I haven't figured out that you have some serious issues? I could always get past that, until now. When you let your issues hurt my family, then we have a problem." He shook his head. "The funny thing is, even watching her wake up...seeing the pain on her face when she realized you weren't there...she STILL made excuses for you." His hands clenched tight. "I want you to tell me to my face, you gonna get down off the damn cross and bury this martyr complex? Are you gonna march your sorry ass back to the hospital and be where you're supposed to be? Or are you going to cut her loose cause you're too chicken shit to commit?"

"Jim, it's not that simple," Gil began, but stopped when Brass stood abruptly.

"What's so damn complicated about it. You love her, don't you?"

"Of course I do," he replied.

"Moira and I have been close since she was a kid. I'll tell you something. That woman has had very little in her life to be happy about. But when it happens, she gets this light in her eyes...I've only seen that in her three times in my life. When she married Colm, when Danny was born, and when she looks at you." Jim grit his teeth, he was furious, but he knew he had to find some way to get through to Grissom. He was about to say something else, but was interrupted when the front door burst open. Brass cursed under his breath, annoyed at himself for not locking it. He found himself pulled back and pushed against a wall. "O'Reilly, what are you doing?"

"Shouldn't I be asking you that question?" the bulky cop asked, angrily. "What were you thinking? You know if he presses charges I gotta take you in," he reminded him, annoyed at his friend.

"I know why Jim is here, what are you guys doing here?" Grissom asked, waving off Nick and Warrick. He shook his head when he heard O'Reilly mention charges. "No charges, O'Reilly. Let him go."

"Moira sent us when Greg realized Brass wasn't at the hospital anymore," Nick explained.

"Damn," Warrick pulled the towel back gently, "he tagged you hard, it looks broken."

"Get off me," Jim growled, brushing O'Reilly's hands off of him. His head snapped around and he held Grissom's gaze. "So, what's it going to be, Gil?" he asked, seriously. Jim felt his stomach drop when the other man shook his head. "You're making the biggest mistake of your life," he managed through clenched teeth, sadness being replaced by anger once again. "I raised another man's kid once, I can do it again," Brass said before storming out the front door, slamming it behind him.

"I'll make sure he gets back to the hospital and stays out of trouble," O'Reilly offered, quickly disappearing out the door after Brass. Nick came out of the kitchen carrying a wet rag, and sat down on the couch next to Grissom.

"Here, let me see," Nick instructed, taking the bloody towel and setting it down on top of an old newspaper. He felt a knot in his stomach as he cleaned the blood off of Grissom's face delicately. His boss and friend looked utterly defeated. He knew it was only a matter of seconds before what Brass had said penetrated the fog of martyrdom in Grissom. He pulled back abruptly when Grissom's blue eyes widened in shock. "Ahhhh, there he is." Nick smirked, putting the wet rag on top of the bloody towel now that he was finished.

"Jim...he said...raise another man's child. Does that mean Moira is..."

"Pregnant, yup." Warrick filled in, giving his boss a sadly sympathetic look. "Something you would have found out if you stuck around. Brass told everyone after you left."

"Is it..." he started to ask if it was his, but shook off the question knowing how unfair that was to Moira.

"Yours? Unless Moira had time to squeeze in a quickie in between saving your ass from this Tamatsura guy, then I'd say yeah...dad." Warrick replied. Nick and Warrick looked at each other worriedly when all the color drained out of Grissom's face. Nick gripped the older man's shoulder to steady him while Grissom leaned forward, resting his face in his hands.

"Oh," he breathed, hating himself, and calling himself every kind of fool. That must have been what Catherine meant when she said it was about more than just he and Moira. He leaned his head back when the realization hit him like a hammer. "I'm going to be a father," he said out loud, still trying to wrap his mind around it.

"Aw, man, Nick whined, rolling his eyes. "That means we're gonna have 'Bugman Junior' running around the lab," he teased, trying to lighten the tense atmosphere.

"I really screwed up, didn't I," they all knew it really wasn't a question.

"Yeah, big time," Warrick sighed. "I don't envy you trying to fix this. Moira's hurt, Danny's pissed, and Jim..." he waved a hand in the direction of Gil's face. "It's not like we haven't been trying to talk to you about it. You just haven't been ready to hear it."

"I'm ready to hear it now," Grissom replied, sheepishly.

"One problem with that boss, we're not the ones you should be talking to," Nick pointed out. "But we can give you a lift to the hospital, after you change." Once Grissom ran upstairs, taking the steps two at a time, Nick turned to face his friend. "You think we're over the worst of it?" he asked Warrick.

"That depends," the other CSI replied. "On whether martyr boy up there can do some fast talking." He chuckled when Grissom came flying back down the stairs dressed in a blue dress shirt and dark slacks. "That was fast," he smirked.

"I've wasted enough time, don't you think?" Gil asked him honestly.

"Amen to that, brother," Warrick commented as Gil grabbed his keys and they left the house in a hurry.

HOSPITAL - OUTSIDE

Grissom practically jumped out of the car the moment Warrick cut the engine. The younger CSI's hurried after their boss, Nick putting his hand on his shoulder to slow him up.

"Whoa. Why don't we go upstairs, tell Moira you're here," Nick suggested.

"What? Why?" Grissom was confused. First they want him to see her, now they want him to wait.

"Because, you already look like hell. Might want to have that nose looked at and set while you're here. On top of that, you go up there all freaked out, you're gonna worry Moira. Just take a few minutes, get some air, and calm down. Then come on up." Nick explained, the young man's dark eyes holding his.

"Right, calm," Grissom took a deep breath, sinking down to sit on the ledge. He tried to focus his thoughts inward. His heart was racing, but Nick was right. He was already on thin ice. Everyone that was important to him was angry. Except for the person who had the biggest right to be, according to Nick and Warrick. Danny...he groaned inwardly as he thought of the young boy. He had extended an olive branch to his estranged mother's lover, and what had he done? Practically snapped that branch in the boy's face by going into hiding. He felt something akin to the biblical story of Daniel walking into the Lion's Den...after Daniel had poked the lions in the eyes repeatedly for three days straight.

"Hey Grissom," he looked up when he heard his name, and found himself looking into the face of Greg Sanders. "I see Brass found you, or his fist found your face" Greg smirked, but there was a sad hint to the expression. "I'm...uh, well we know hospital food should be illegal, so I figured I'd go pick up some contraband for Moira and Sean." He frowned, not liking the fact that Grissom hadn't told him to shut up once. He sat down next to the older man. "Hey, you okay?"

"No," Grissom gave a sad chuckle, like Greg had just asked the stupidest question in the world. "I've probably screwed up the best thing that has ever happened to me. And on top of it all, I'm going to be a father. What do I know about being a father?" He asked, his tone incredulous. The idea of losing Moira scared him, but that fear didn't even scratch the surface in the absolute terror he felt at being a father.

"Well, you're one of the smartest guys I've ever known," he smiled gently when Grissom snorted indignantly. "I didn't say you weren't capable of some serious bone head moves. I'm living proof smart guys can be pretty dumb sometimes. You're the best at what you do, make a good living at it, you're patient with all your problem children at the lab -- especially me," Greg's grin grew wide at that thought. "You bathe, aren't exactly quasimodo, you have a seriously hot girlfriend," he shrugged when Grissom's head snapped towards him. "All in all, I'd say the kid just hit the genetic lottery."

"I have no clue on how to even begin to fix this." Grissom admitted helplessly.

"Grissom, you just take it one day at a time. People are gonna be steamed at first, but the only ones that should matter are you and Moira. And Danny. I've been hanging with the kid for the last three days. He's not happy with what you did, but I think I'm pretty good at judging people. He's a forgiving kid. Just prove you're not going to go all space cadet and bale on them again, he'll come around." Greg explained. "As for being a parent, you do what the rest of God's green earth does...you learn as you go. It's not like you're gonna be doing this alone. Catherine will help, and this kid is gonna have a whole slew of uncles to pitch in when you guys need it."

"I don't want to do what my father did," Grissom shook his head in disgust. It was the general feeling when he thought about Brian Grissom. He couldn't believe that he was confiding in Greg Sanders, but the kid seemed to be the only one of his friends that was willing to have a heart to heart at the moment without trying to knock his teeth down his throat. He saw Greg's puzzled look at his cryptic comment and proceeded to explain. "He left us, walked out when I was six, never looked back."

"Well, that explains why you're such a head case," Greg teased, holding his good hand up in surrender when the older man glared at him. "I'm kidding. Seriously though, you're not going to get to walk back in there without taking your lumps. You messed up. But Moira loves you. Any idiot with eyes can see that. And the fact that you're sitting here tells me you love her. Personally, I think you guys are good together. But it's not up to what I think, it's about what the two of you think. Either way, you have a boatload of work in front of you. If you think it's worth it, go on up. Take your lumps and show the woman you love she's worth the risk. Given what she went through that put her in the hospital, I think she's shown she thinks you're worth it." He stood slowly, extending his good hand toward Grissom. He helped the older man to his feet and smiled. "I'm off, I want to get back quick. Danny's been kicking my butt on Madden football, and I want some time for a rematch." He started to walk toward his car and turned back for a moment. "Grissom, you want anything while I'm out?"

"No, thanks Greg, you've given me what I needed for now," and the young man had. He chuckled to himself at how the tables had turned. With forensics, he was the guide, the mentor. But in this case, when it came to putting his personal life back together, Greg had given him some excellent guidance. "I'll just..." he pointed toward the front door of the hosptal.

"Yeah, go on. She'll be glad to see you." Greg gave him a cocky smile before turning back to the parking lot, heading toward his car. Danny might have beaten him the last five times, but the kid's time would come, even if it took him weeks to collect.