An Unfair Act of Vengeance

Notes: This chapter took me a little while to write, but there aren't too many chapters left! Hope you enjoy it, and I hope you all take the time to review, even if it's only to say 'Nice Job'. I'll take what I can get, and I always enjoy reading what you have to say.

Summary: Grissom talks with Father Powell, who he hasn't seen in years. Meanwhile, Catherine comforts Warrick after Nick asks him to process him for evidence. Afterwards, Nick testifies as the trial, but finds seeing Alberts again nearly unbearable…

"You look like hell, Dr. Grissom."

His head snapped up at the unexpected voice, and he sat in shock as he watched Father Powell enter the room. It's been years since I've seen him… what is he doing here now?

"Why exactly are you here?"

"Look, I know it's been a few years since we've even seen each other, but when I saw the news I figured you could use someone to talk to."

"I have my team. And there are plenty of psychologists…"

"That may be, but we both know that you don't want to frighten your team by telling them how scared you are, and I know you won't be satisfied with some stranger's opinion."

"You're practically a stranger."

"That may be, but at least we have some things in common."

"What's that?"

"We both want to find the answers to our questions. You want to know why your friend had to suffer so much. Why they won't let him move on. You need to know why they keep coming back to hurt him more."

"Hmm, and you think I'm just going to turn to you, or God for the answers?"

"It'd be my first suggestion, but I know you. No, you want facts, you want the hard evidence."

"Except we both know there is no hard evidence; no real answer as to why they are doing this."

"Grissom, we've both seen people on the very worst days of their lives. Your friend, Nick, isn't dead though. He survived, and now they want to hurt him more. But, Gil, remember there's always hope. Your friend is incredibly strong to have survived through so much."

"Yeah, he's probably the strongest person I know, but what happens when it's just too much for him to handle? What happens when so many others keep piling more and more on him? What's going to be the straw that breaks his back?"

"No one truly knows, but he doesn't have to carry his burdens alone. No one can for long. He needs your help, and the help of your team. I can see how much he means to all of you; you all love him so much that words can't even describe it. But, that's the real gift, Gil. God doesn't want us to say how much we love each other. If he did we'd have words for it; he wants us to show how much we love each other. You need to stop trying to tell him how you feel, and show him. Show him that he means more to you than words can describe. The same goes for the rest of your team. If you show them how you feel… they'll understand, and you'll have helped them so much more than you've ever thought possible."

Grissom slowly tried to speak, but the words wouldn't come out. Maybe he's right. I can't tell them how much they mean to me, because there aren't any words to even begin to describe it… I need to show Nick how much he means to us…

"So… who gets the task of processing me?" Nick offered trying to lighten the somber mood that was threatening to engulf everyone in the room.

"Nick…" Catherine started, but the words caught in her throat as she looked at him in the hospital gown. Sofia had already reluctantly bagged his clothes. I just hope that any evidence they might find will lead us to the bastards that are doing this to him…

"It needs to be done…"

"I'll do it; if that's ok with you, Nick." Warrick offered quietly.

"Well… ok, let's get this over with." Nick said, and found his voice to be a lot shakier than he had hoped. He offered a weak smile to Catherine and Sara as they took the hint, and slowly left. Greg followed quietly, unsure about what to do.

Once the door closed Warrick turned, and placed his hand firmly on his friend's shoulder. His eyes had regained some of the life they used to be full of. Yet, there was no mistaking the haunting look of fear in the dark brown eyes.

"Whenever you're ready, Nick… no rush, and if it gets to be too much, well, we can stop anytime ok?"

"Man, why don't you just grab your camera, and start processing, I'm evidence."

"No. Nick, I swear… if you ever say that about yourself again… I'll bop you so hard you won't know what hit you. You're not evidence, you've never been evidence. You're a human being, and more than that you're my best friend. You stuck with me through the hard times; you helped get me out of the casinos on my time off. You stuck with me through everything…"

"T-thanks bro… I-I'm so sorry. I just wish I could finally be over all of this… I just want to get past it all."

"Yeah… me too man, and we will get past this. All of us. I'm not going to let anyone get left behind. I promise, Nick, no matter what it takes; we'll beat them."

Nick offered a feeble smile in response, and he slowly coaxed himself to stand up.

Warrick looked somberly at Nick's chest thatwas now visible. He winced as he quickly snapped several shots of the various bruises, both new and old.

"Hey Catherine."

"Doc… what I can I do for you?"

"Nothing, I just wanted to let you know that I've finished up the prelim on the DB. Cause of death is no surprise, she took six shots to her head and torso. Unfortunately we didn't get much else from her, except a few trace samples. How is he doing?"

"Actually, he seems better… it's almost as if what happened started to bring him back to life…"

"It wasn't what happened Catherine. Not really. No one that close to being raped finds it helpful to the healing process. I think it's a safe bet that he's finding solace in the fact that he regained some control over his life when he killed her."

"So, basically you're saying that by defending himself he…"

"Look, Catherine, we've seen it before. Anyone who holds the power of taking another's life automatically has power over their victim. Then, if you throw torture into the mix it makes that control more powerful. As much as I hate to think about it, Alberts still has an amazing amount of power over Nick. I just hope that he manages to get over all of this."

"We all do, Al… we all do…"

"How are you holding up, Catherine?" He went on, and made sure she could recognize the seriousness in his tone.

"I… it's just so hard to see him reduced to this. It's so hard to see him brought down to his knees… begging for it to be over. What can we even say to him? We can't even grasp what he went through… Look, I've got to go, Warrick just came out… thanks for everything."

"Hey, Catherine…" Warrick started as Sara and Greg slipped into the room, making sure they made enough noise so they wouldn't startle their friend.

"Warrick, how is he? Is it bad?"

"He's got more bruises, and I found traces of her saliva all over his body…"

"Did she get the chance… did they stop her in time?" She asked after realizing that she couldn't bring herself to say the words.

"No… he was lucky, she was all over him though… Damn it!" He finished as he slammed his fist into the wall. He immediately pulled it towards him as he felt the pain shoot through his hand. God, that's not even a billionth of what he went through…

"I'd ask how you were holding up... but I guess there comes a time when it just becomes pointless to ask the same questions over and over again." She whispered quietly as she gently placed her hand on his shoulder. I can't even remember how many times I've asked him this… during Nick's Kidnapping… even that time on that murder case when I found him in the women's restroom… I suppose we have to move on though…

"It's just that he's gone through so much, Catherine. If he can't come out of all this in one piece… I'm not sure that I'll be able to handle it… I just want them to leave him alone." He sighed as he grabbed Catherine's hand.

"Warrick… look at me," she waited until he slowly looked into her eyes before she went on, "trust me when I say this. Nick wouldn't have had this any other way. It's who he is; who he'll always be. Sure, he'll never be the same, but…"

"You're right, Catherine, he'll never be the same… and I hate these people for that…"

"Look, Warrick, a few years ago, Nick and I were working a case. It was that rebirthing case…"

"Yeah, I remember that… Some psychiatrist and a mom killed a kid… I remember hitting a bar after that case with Nick. Before that day I don't think I'd ever seen him so miserable…"

"Well, while we were working the case, he started going solo; he was confronting the psychiatrist. It got to the point where I actually threatened to take him off the case. Then he told me… I'm not sure I had ever been more stunned in my life when he said those words… but that wasn't the important part, Warrick. You know what the last thing he said to me then was? He didn't say that he'd gotten over it, he didn't get mad… he apologized for his behavior, and said that it's what makes a person. He was right, Warrick. Not everything that happens in our lives makes us stronger, but these events shape who we are. We change everyday, and nothing can stop that. Nick isn't going to be the same, ever… you've got to let go of who he was, and help him find out who he is going to be."

"I… you're right. As always. I just wish I had all the answers… not even more questions."

"Warrick… the answers aren't out there. They're in here. Everything you ever need to know… it's all in here." She smiled softly at him as she held her hand over his heart. He slowly placed his hand over hers and offered her a crooked smile.

"I guess I'm just not in tune with much in that area."

"Warrick, you know better than that. You're more in touch than you realize. Just slow down, and listen to what it says."

"How?" he asked quietly as he stared into her vibrant eyes. She's so full of life…

"I guess it's easier for me. I guess it's easier for anyone once they have a kid. You'll find a way, Warrick. You probably already have. Just open your eyes, and you'll find it."

He sighed, and nodded slowly. Catherine slowly reached up; her arms pulling him closer to her as she hugged him thightly. I can't thank you enough, Catherine...

Nick smiled as Greg and Sara slowly came in. He quickly grabbed the second shoe from the bag Warrick had left for him.

"So who gets to be the chauffeur? I think I'm ready to get out of here…"

"I'm driving; I don't think we want you getting sick from Greg's recklessness… and Warrick is going to be spending the night at your place, you've got a big day tomorrow..."

"Hey… I'm not that bad a driver!" Greg whined playfully, and grinned when he noticed Nick's sarcastic smile. He certainly looks better… maybe things aren't quite as bad as we thought…

"I... I hate to ask, but..." Nick began softly, but Sara quickly put a finger to his lips, and smiled.

"Warrick is going to be spending the night at your place, you've got a big day tomorrow... we're not leaving you alone..."

"Thanks... I... I love you guys..." Nick whispered solemnly

"We love you too, Nick... remember that... always remember that." Sara smiled gently as they helped Nick up, and over to the door. I just hope you realize it Nick... we'd do anything for you...

Nick shifted uncomfortably in the large hallway just outside the elaborate courtroom. He was finding it hard to stay still as he thought about what was about to happen. Something inside him was making him feel nervous. He's in there right now… just waiting for you…

Grissom sat back down in the first row of seats behind the prosecutor's desk. Jacob O'Connor sat calmly as he prepared for the questions he'd soon be asking Nick. He gave a quick glance over his shoulder to where the finest CSI team in Vegas was sitting, and he offered them a slight smile. He could see how nervous they were, and that none of them could help but glance at Carl Alberts who had been silent the whole time merely smiling blankly at them while they had answered questions.

He did all those things to Nick, and he doesn't even show the slightest sign of remorse… Warrick quietly grabbed Tina's hand, and squeezed it gently. She offered him a slight smile, and he could tell she was nervous. His eyes drifted to his other side where Greg and Sara were also sitting nervously, Greg was idly toying with the buttons of his suit coat, and Sara was trying to focus on smoothing out the invisible wrinkles in her on suit. He looked to the seat in front of them and found that Grissom and Catherine were on edge, and they were holding each other's hand in an attempt to calm each other down. How is he supposed to face that… that psychopath?

Nick shifted his coat slightly, and sighed as he looked down at the brace on his wrist. His fingers went slightly along the top of his dress shirt, and he sighed heavily as he looked at the dark wood doors in front of him. I couldn't even wear a tie… His thoughts were interrupted as the three officers behind him prepared to go in.

"Jake… he… let us bring him in. He… I'm not sure he can do this on his own…" Grissom whispered hurriedly in the DA's ear, but he immediately snapped his head around when they heard the doors swing open. Everyone watched silently as Nick painfully made his way down the main aisle in the center of the room. His crutches clicked loudly on the polished floors, and he bit his lip as he came closer to Alberts.

Just focus on your friends… You can do this… you have to do this. His eyes landed on the entire team, and he offered a weak smile before moving past them. He slowly made his way up to the stand, and waited nervously to be sworn in. His eyes slowly looked through the courtroom and landed on his entire family that was sitting just past his team, and he caught a glimpse of Emily sitting near several other people. He suddenly realized that everything had gone dead silent and that all eyes were fixed on him. A quick look at Catherine showed her to be raising her right arm gently.

"I… uh… sorry…" Nick whispered quietly to the judge who didn't seem to like the idea of him being there at all.

"It's ok, Mr. Stokes, just go ahead and raise your right hand… that is if you're ready to do this."

"I-I'm ready… Judge…" Nick said uncomfortably as he raised his right hand. He bit down on his lip harder, and tensed as he noticed that his hand was shaking violently. Somehow he managed to speak the required words, and found himself sitting nervously in the hard wooden chair.

Grissom frowned when he saw Nick's hand quivering rapidly. "Jake… can you ask the Judge to give me a few moments with Nick? Please…"

"I'll do my best Grissom." He slowly rose out of his chair, and faced the Judge.

"Judge Matthews... uh... Your Honor… I would like to approach the bench."

"You may approach." He sighed quietly as his eyes quickly glanced over at the young man sitting next to him. He could easily see the remnants of the bruises around his neck where the ropes had dug into him. He could see the faint remains of a bruise on his face that had obviously come from a boot. Stay focused, for God's sake…

"Your Honor, Dr. Grissom would like to have a few moments with Mr. Stokes, before we start the questioning…"

"Given the circumstances, I'll allow it." He waved him back to his seat, and slowly stood. "Dr. Grissom, you may approach the witness."

"Thank you, your Honor." Grissom said hastily as he quickly crossed the room over to Nick, who was desperately trying to control his shaking. His eyes slowly passed over the jury, and their shocked faces gave him a bit more confidence. Who wouldn't be shocked after viewing all those damn tapes, and then they get to see the man in person… at least they're capable of showing emotions. He thought as he watched an old woman sitting at the far end, she was the perfect stereotype of a loving grandmother, and he turned his focus back onto Nick when he noticed that she was holding back tears.

"Nick, are you ok? Remember… you don't have to do this…"

"I… I do though, Griss… I can't let him control me… I need to help put him in prison…"

"Listen, Nick… if you want to stop, just say so… I'll be right over there, with Catherine…"

"I-I'm scared… does he have to go back?" Nick nearly whispered as his eyes went from Grissom to Matthews.

"Hmm… well, the circumstances here are definitely different from any other case I've handled, so I will permit you to stay with him, but please, don't tell him what to say… I'm already out on a limb here."

Grissom nodded and moved over to stand by Nick. The bailiff made his way across the room carrying another chair, and set it next to Nick. Without hesitating he sat down and placed his hand on Nick's shoulder, while his other hand reached around Nick's chest, and quickly grabbed hold of his friend's good hand. Nick offered him a weak smile, and nodded for Jacob to start his questions.

"Alright, please start your name for the jury."

"Nick… Stokes."

"Thank you, Mr. Stokes. Now, obviously, what you went through was a terrible ordeal, so if you do not wish to answer any questions, that's ok."

"Ok…" Nick stated nervously. He found his eyes once more focusing in on Alberts who was staring at him intently with that heartless smile plastered on his face. He suddenly felt the rope around his neck once more, and the searing pain in his palms from the scalpel. Then he was back in the courtroom, and he felt Grissom's grip on his hand tighten slightly. I can do this…

"Now, Mr. Stokes, while you're not an expert psychologist, you deal with criminals everyday. Would you say that Carl Alberts is insane?"

"I'd say that anyone that can hurt another person without remorse is insane. However, I have no doubt that he knew what he was doing, and that he was fully aware of his actions. Just because a person is insane doesn't mean they should just get off the hook… only be sent to some fancy institution…"

Nick answered as best as he could as the DA asked him more questions about Alberts, and what he had gone through, and he sighed when he finally heard him finish.

"Thank you, Mr. Stokes, I have no further questions, your Honor."

"Alright, I trust that you wish to cross examine the witness?" he asked towards the single lawyer sitting next to Alberts. He nodded, and quickly walked over to begin his own series of questions.

"How did you react to being stabbed Mr. Stokes?"

"I… I did my best to recover, and I tried not to let it get to me…"

"Ok, and how did you feel when you were later abducted?"

"I… I was terrified. Who wouldn't be? I… was scared… afraid that I might not see my friends or family again…"

"So, is it fair to say that you weren't in your normal state of mind?"

"No. It's not fair to say that. I may have been scared to death, but I knew it was him… there are just certain things you can't forget when something bad happens to you… I'll… I'll never forget his face while he did those… things to me."

"Even so, you were clearly under tremendous amounts of stress, and when you throw fear, and anxiety into the mix it doesn't make you reliable, does it?"

"You wouldn't understand. You don't know how clear nightmares can be… but trust me, when someone slices your palms with a scalpel, and cuts your arms repeatedly with a pair of shears… or even uses some type of clamp to break your wrist. Maybe when you have someone smash you leg with a sledgehammer you'll understand that you can never forget the face of the person that did it to you… never…"

Grissom felt Nick's hand tighten around his, and he could see the Texan was fighting hard not to cry. The tears were clearly forming in his eyes. At least there's some of the life… the fire in those eyes… he may never be the same, but we can help him get better…

Alberts' lawyer suddenly seemed lost. Nick looked at him cautiously as he tried to come up with another question. After he took a quick glance back at Alberts he sighed and faced the judge once more.

"I have no further questions your Honor." He promptly took his seat as the judge gave Nick permission to stand down. Nick slowly stood, and Grissom helped him back across the polished floor towards Catherine. She stood as they came closer, and suddenly everyone found themselves staring upwards as they heard the sound of glass shattering. Nick stumbled as he saw the large glass dome above them shatter into millions of tiny shards. He looked back down just in time to see Alberts reach under the table for something and begin to charge him.

Oh God… no… please… don't let him hurt me anymore…

To Be Continued…

Next Chapter: No one knows what is going on in the courtroom as Alberts makes his move against Nick...