I'm so sorry again for the delay. I think this chapter sort of got away from me. But it's here now, filled with more mutual pining, a lack of conversation regarding said pining and a few kisses thrown in to make up for it. Hope you enjoy.

A knock sounds at the door just as Myka is taking a batch of cookies from the oven. She curses under her breath at the intrusion, quickly discarding the oven mitt she wears to approach the door. All too aware of who is likely on the other side, she takes a deep, steadying breath. She's not mistaken when she opens the door to reveal Abigail standing there.

"Hello, Myka," Abigail greets her.

"Hi, Abigail," Myka returns the greeting. "I'm guessing you're here to ask another round of questions."

"It is my job," she affirms.

"Right," Myka exhales. "Come on in then," she says stepping aside to allow Abigail entrance inside the apartment.

"It smells wonderful in here," Abigail says following Myka towards the kitchen.

"I'm baking ranger cookies."

"Ranger cookies? I've never heard of those."

"Yeah. They're basically a chocolate-chip, oatmeal cookie with coconut thrown in for good measure. Some recipes call for walnuts too but neither Helena nor I care for those so we leave them out. Anyway, they're Helena's favorite and I thought I'd surprise her with them."

"She isn't here?" Abigail asks looking around the living room, noticing it appears in much better order than it did two weeks ago on her last visit. The bookshelves lined against the walls are now fulfilling their purpose, full of books with the occasional knick-knack dotting the shelves.

"No, she's at her Kempo class. She's been taking classes the last couple years and a new class just started back up. She'll be there Tuesday nights for the next several weeks," Myka explains, donning the oven mitt once more to steady the baking sheet as she removes the cookies with a spatula, placing them onto a plate.

"I'll make a note of that for future reference," Abigail says. "You aren't interested in taking Kempo classes too?"

"It's not that I'm not interested, I just prefer other means of working out. I have gone with Helena on several occasions before. She's quite a sparring partner," Myka says with a grin, remembering an occasion Helena managed to pin her to the floor. Not to be outdone, Myka returned the favor with the next match. They called a truce and she hasn't attended a class since. Now that she thinks of it, perhaps it would be a good time to go back.

"Go ahead and sit at the table," Myka encourages as she continues to plate the cookies. "Helena and I were just discussing the other night that you didn't make a weekly visit last week."

"I did actually, but it appeared you were both out for the evening," Abigail says pulling a notebook from her satchel and beginning to write.

"Oh? What night?" Myka asks.

"Thursday."

"That's right. Helena and I went out to dinner that night…on a date," she says awkwardly, feeling her face flush in remembrance of that night.

"A date?"

"Yeah. Technically we are still dating even though we're married now. Last Thursday we went to dinner, this Friday we're planning to see a movie. You know, the normal date activities."

"I see. And how is the living arrangement? I imagine it has to be a bit of an adjustment for you both, considering you weren't living together before marrying so suddenly."

"It's still an adjustment," Myka admits with a laugh. Finished plating the first batch of cookies, she begins scooping spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the sheet for the second batch. "There are things that drive us both crazy but we're learning to deal with it."

"No deal breakers then I take it?"

Myka shakes her head. "I'm not going to divorce Helena just because she forgets to make the bed on occasion - or every other day as seems to be the case," she says with a hint of exasperation. "She's trying, we both are and that's what matters."

"And your family still approves of the match?"

"My family adores Helena, they always have," Myka answers, avoiding any mention of the brief strain between her father and Helena after he first learned of their marriage. A strain that has disappeared as suddenly as it manifested, given her parents' gift to them. "In fact, we were just over to my sister's house on Sunday for brunch. I have a feeling these family meals are going to become a regular occurrence now," she says placing the cookie sheet inside the oven and setting the timer.

"They weren't before you married Helena?"

"Not really," Myka answers, placing the bowel in the sink and filling it with hot water and dish soap to soak. "I love my family, but usually I only see them for the holidays, with scattered visits here and there in between. But I think Helena really enjoys being a part of that family atmosphere again. Her parents both passed away years ago and with her brother in London, I think the interaction with my family, now her family too, is something she didn't realize she needed. It's been good for everyone."

After drying her hands on a dishtowel, Myka carries the plate of cookies to the table, setting them down in front of Abigail.

"Would you like a cookie?"

Abigail looks conflicted. "I really shouldn't accept, but they smell too good to pass up," she smiles taking one. "Thank you."

"Sure. Would you like some milk to go with it?"

"No thank you, water would be fine."

Myka fills a glass of water for Abigail and pours a tall glass of milk for herself, taking them both to the table as she sits down. Abigail is nearly finished with her cookie before Myka takes the first bite of hers.

"These really are delicious, Myka, thank you," Abigail says again.

"They are good," Myka agrees, savoring the morsel. "Helena has been a bad influence on me. I didn't used to be so susceptible to sweets but ever since she moved in, it's been ice cream, cookies, even chocolate covered strawberries once," she says with a shake of her head. "We hardly ever go without dessert, something I used to always skip before. It's a wonder I haven't gained ten pounds already. But running on the weekends seems to help with that." Myka pushes the plate of cookies closer to Abigail. "Help yourself to more if you want."

"Oh no, one is plenty, thank you. I was glad to meet your friends on my last visit," Abigail says getting down to business. "Meeting them afforded me some insight into your relationship with Helena I wouldn't have had otherwise."

Myka senses the shift in tone. "Oh?" she asks, feeling the cookie she had been eating become lodged in her throat. She takes a swallow of milk to wash it down. "What kind of insight exactly?"

"They are obviously all in favor of you and Helena being in a relationship, they seemed...relieved that you are finally together, as though they couldn't believe it had actually happened."

Myka chuckles nervously. "Yeah, it was a bit of a surprise to them all, but I think we already explained why we kept our relationship quiet."

"Yes, you did," Abigail agrees. "But I can't help wondering why if you told Pete about your marriage why not tell everyone else? Based on what your friend Claudia said, the only reason she and everyone else learned of your marriage was because they overheard Pete mention it."

Myka can feel herself begin to sweat under these questions that are beginning to feel like an interrogation. She forces herself to take a steadying breath before answering.

"Pete finding out the way he did, when he did was unplanned," Myka carefully explains. "He started talking about marriage because he wants to propose to Amanda and he was worried that marriage would somehow change things between them. I was trying to assure him a marriage between them wouldn't change their feelings for each other and that's when my marriage to Helena sort of slipped out. But Helena and I did discuss telling him."

"Only him?" Abigail persists.

Myka is trying to think of an adequate response when she is interrupted by the timer beeping to announce the second batch of cookies is ready.

"Sorry, I need to get those," she apologizes, jumping from her chair to take the cookies from the oven. She can feel Abigail watching her, studying her as she transfers the cookies from the sheet onto another plate but doesn't answer the question.

Myka carries the plate to the table, setting it down beside the other.

"Would you care for another cookie?" she asks taking one for herself and breaking it in half and slipping a piece into her mouth.

"No, thank you. Myka, you didn't answer my question," Abigail points out gently. "Why only tell Pete and not the rest of your friends? You would have had to tell them eventually, right? Unless…"

Knowing Abigail is about to come to the correct conclusion, Myka interrupts. "We would have told everyone eventually. Of course we would have. I mean it's not like we could keep something this significant a secret for very long." Though that had been exactly their intention before it all feel to pieces only days after being married. "We're living together, of course our family and friends were going to notice that eventually. And my sister figured it out we were married far quicker than I ever imagined," she says nervously turning the wedding ring around her finger, recalling how its presence is what gave them away to Tracy that fateful morning.

"So you didn't tell your family about your marriage either?" Abigail asks.

"What?" Myka startles.

"You just said that your sister figured out you were married, suggesting you didn't actually tell her as I was under the impression before. Is that not the case?"

"She noticed my wedding ring before I could tell her," Myka explains, biting her lip as she notices Abigail jotting down more notes.

"Myka, I can tell that you and Helena care for each other deeply, but I want to reiterate how serious this situation is that you find yourselves in. If this is found to only be a marriage for the sake of keeping Helena from being deported, you could be charged with a fine of thousands of dollars, possibly worse. I truly don't want to see that happen to you."

"What exactly are you suggesting?" Myka asks quietly.

"I'm suggesting, that if you were to confess now that this marriage is only a means to help out a friend, I can make sure no charges are pressed against you. I can't guarantee the same if we proceed to a formal interview with my agency," she explains not unkindly.

Myka nods. "I understand what you're saying, I do. But my feelings for Helena are genuine."

"I didn't say they weren't, but…"

"I love her. I'm…in love with her," Myka interrupts awkwardly, uncomfortable with speaking the truth about feelings that are so personal. Feelings she hasn't voiced aloud to anyone except Pete very briefly, and even he doesn't know the full context of them. Feelings she hasn't dared voice to Helena, too afraid they won't be reciprocated.

"I've been in love with her for a long time, long before we married or started dating. I just didn't fully realize it until the moment we were faced with the possibility of separation," she chokes out a laugh, still nervously twisting the ring around her finger. "I honestly don't care what happens to us as long as we're together. If your agency is set on deporting Helena, we'll pack up tonight and move to London if we have to."

"You'd leave your family, friends and career all behind?" Abigail asks.

"Helena is my family," Myka answers quietly but firmly.

Abigail begins to say something more but is interrupted by a sound that Myka has never been so grateful to hear.

The lock turns in the door before Helena calls out, "Myka, I'm home." She drops her gym bag on the floor with a thud before glancing up to realize Myka isn't alone; that they have a guest at their table.

"Oh, hello, Abigail," she greets cheerfully, crossing the room to join them. "My goodness, what smells so heavenly in here?"

"I made cookies for you," Myka answers.

"You did?" she asks surprised and then, "You did," Helena smiles wide as she notices the plates of cookies on the table. "My favorite by the looks of them. Thank you, darling," Helena says, leaning down slowly, making her intention clear before claiming Myka's lips in a kiss, smiling into that kiss as she feels Myka's hand cup her cheek to pull her in closer, extending the kiss. "Miss me?" Helena husks when they part.

"You know I did," Myka says softly, still cupping her cheek, her thumb tracing Helena's lips.

Helena smiles softly at the touch. She knows Myka's answer is more likely from having to entertain Abigail on her own rather than her absence but her heart races regardless, still feeling that kiss on her lips. She swipes a cookie from one of the plates, taking a generous bite, moaning appreciatively at the taste. "These are wonderful, thank you, Myka," she says before finally sitting down in a chair beside her.

"You're welcome," Myka smiles. She studies Helena a moment, taking in the glow of her skin lightly streaked with sweat from her workout. Her long hair is pulled back in a messy bun, loose tendrils falling down her neck and without thought, Myka reaches a hand to Helena's hair, carefully pulling the hair tie away, letting dark locks fall in waves across slim shoulders, a sight that has always made Myka's heart clench with longing. She continues to lightly trail her fingers through the glossy tresses, smoothing away any tangles and gently massaging Helena's scalp.

"Mmm, that feels lovely, thank you, Myka," Helena hums contentedly, trying to ignore the pleasant coiling in her stomach at the unexpected touch. "Maybe later you would be amendable to giving me a massage? I think I may have strained some muscles."

"Not your back?" Myka asks instantly worried. "I asked you if resuming Kempo class now was too soon."

"My back is fine, I was very careful. Besides, Wolly has returned as my sparring partner," she says nibbling on her cookie.

"Oh," Myka relaxes. "Is he any better?"

"Not much. Poor Wolly spent more time on the mat than on his feet," Helena chuckles. "And he's the reason why I'm late getting home.

"Wolly is from London as well so we spent some time reminiscing about the city," Helena explains to Abigail. "He seemed a little homesick."

"Do you miss London?" Abigail asks.

"Of course I do," Helena affirms. "London will always be dear to my heart, but now Denver has my heart as well," she says with a look at Myka. "But what have I missed here?" she asks finishing her cookie and taking a drink of milk from Myka's glass to wash it down with.

"I was discussing with Myka your new living arrangements, asking how that's been going since you appear to be fully moved in now," Abigail tells her.

"Thankfully so," Helena agrees.

"Have the new living arrangements been awkward, since you went from barely dating to married and living together in such a short span of time?" Abigail asks.

"It's been an adjustment. Cramming my things into this apartment has been a challenge, and we've had to work on some personal quirks as well," she says glancing at Myka with a smile. "I tend to be a tad more disorganized than I know Myka would prefer, but nothing so terrible to lead to any major argument so far. If anything, Myka sighs in annoyance and I try to right whatever it is I've done to offend," she laughs.

"That goes both ways," Myka jumps in. "I'm trying to be more patient, letting Helena do things in her own time. Like making the bed issue I mentioned to you earlier. Before we lived together, making the bed was always the first thing I did after getting up in the morning. Helena prefers to make it after she's showered and dressed."

"Plus my feeling on the matter is why bother making up the bed when we're just going to mess it up again anyway? Frequently as the occasion warrants," Helena smirks.

Myka's eyes widen at the insinuation. "Helena," she warns under her breath, emitting a chuckle from the other woman.

"Really, Myka, still bashful after weeks of marriage and all the delights it's brought?" she asks, placing a hand on Myka's thigh and leaning in to brush a kiss against her cheek. "I do so love it when you blush."

"Helena, please stop talking," Myka begs, feeling the blush Helena alluded to rise to her cheeks as she avoids Abigail's eyes.

"As you wish, love," Helena laughs, her hand squeezing Myka's thigh.

"I'm glad to hear things are going so well," Abigail tells them.


"That seemed to go well, don't you think?" Helena asks after Abigail leaves, encouraged by the visit and the conversation that ensued.

"Sure, fine. Look, I'm going to deposit the money my parents gave us into a joint bank account," Myka says starting down the hallway towards their office.

"Joint bank account? Why?" Helena asks confused.

"I already added your name to the lease, right?" Myka asks.

"Weeks ago, but what is this about?" Helena repeats, following Myka into the office, watching helplessly as she turns on her laptop and starts searching the Internet. "Why are you opening a joint bank account?"

"We need to get some things in order."

"What sort of things?"

Myka scrolls through a website. "We only glanced at this briefly before, but it looks like if we have to be interviewed, it would be better if we're able to show our names have been formally changed. We'll have to update our driver's licenses, social security cards, bank accounts, and insurance information. We haven't filed a joint tax return yet, but if this investigation lasts much longer, we'll have to be sure to do that too."

"Myka, what is this all about?" Helena asks.

"You've been sharing the payments, but I should add your name to the utility bills and once we open the joint bank account, it would be a good idea to keep adding part of our salaries to it, at least for the duration of this investigation," Myka rambles on.

"Myka!" Helena yells to get her attention. Seeing worried green eyes focus on her at last, she asks concerned, "What did Abigail say to you tonight?"

Myka looks away before answering. "She tried to get me to confess that our marriage is a fraud. She told me if I confessed tonight, she could make sure no charges would be filed against me, something she emphasized she wouldn't be able to ensure if it ends up we are interviewed and found to be lying about our situation."

"Oh," Helena says, dropping into the chair at her desk, her face pale with the thought of all that is at stake. "Perhaps you should take her up on the offer," she says quietly.

Myka turns her attention from the computer screen to stare at Helena. "What? You can't be serious?"

"Myka, I'm trying to be noble for once. I'm thinking of you…of the repercussions you could face if we should be found out after all. I don't want to see you charged, criminally or financially. Nor do I want to see your reputation ruined, possibly cost you your career, all for nothing."

"You are not nothing, Helena," Myka replies upset. "We've already come this far…"

"It's only been a few weeks, Myka! Are you prepared for this to go on for years if necessary? To sacrifice your life, your happiness for a…a friend when you could instead be sharing a life with someone whom you truly love?" she asks incredulous.

If only she knew the truth, Myka thinks. If only she were brave enough to tell Helena the truth. That despite waking up some nights, worried about the consequences their marriage could have on them, on their family and friends, she's more worried of the night she wakes without Helena there beside her. But even if their marriage does eventually end, she'd rather have Helena in her life as a friend than not at all.

"It could take years for this to be resolved, Myka," Helena says quietly. "It isn't fair to you."

"Then we need to make sure this investigation doesn't last years. We need to up our game again. We need to be prepared for an interview should one occur. We need to have proof that we're committed to each other in every sense, legally and financially. Tomorrow we're going to open a joint bank account and then we're going to make an appointment at the social security office."

"Didn't you hear anything I said?" Helena asks flabbergasted.

"I did. But I'm not backing out now. Besides, for all we know, it could just be a set up to get us to admit we broke the law. We don't know if Abigail Cho has any kind of authority to make sure I'm not brought on charges. I'm not taking any chances."

Helena gives her a pointed look, causing Myka to roll her eyes.

"Fine, any more chances than the one I took marrying you in the first place. But more than anything, Helena…you know I…I don't want you to move back to London, thousands of miles away. I want you here."

"Where you can keep an eye on me, I suppose," Helena tries to joke.

"Something like that," Myka agrees. "So, what do you say, are you in this for the duration?"

Helena considers the question. "I meant what I told Abigail tonight. Aside from Charles being in London, my life is here now and I want to continue living here, with you and all our friends. So yes, against my better judgment that you'd be better off letting go of this mess I've caused, I'm committed to seeing it through if you are."

"I am," Myka says with finality.


"Did you and HG go out for another romantic lunch today?" Pete asks, interrupting Myka from her work as he sits down across from her desk, absently squeezing a stress ball in one hand.

"Sure, if you count standing in line at the DMV romantic," she quips.

"What were you doing there?"

"Getting the names changed on our driver's licenses to Bering-Wells. Yesterday we spent an equally romantic lunch hour at the social security office."

"It's sort of romantic," he says.

"In a way," Myka agrees. Although she'd hated waiting in line at the crowded office, she couldn't help feeling a strange sense of pride in sharing a name with Helena. Now it was there in black and white for the entire world to see, she and Helena are joined together in names, in marriage, in life. Together they are a family. She smiles softly at the thought.

"I'm surprised HG didn't insist on Wells-Bering."

"She's the one who suggested Bering-Wells actually," Myka says thinking of the day they went to the courthouse to obtain their marriage license. "She thought it sounded better, alphabetical and all that."

"Can't argue with the alphabet. So, Mykes, what do you and the misses have planned for the weekend?" Pete asks.

"I don't really know. We haven't made plans yet."

"The newlyweds are without a plan? I mean besides the obvious," he says raising an eyebrow suggestively.

Myka refuses to blush and rise to the bait. "If you seem to think you know our plans, why bother asking about them?"

"Because if you two lovebirds have any inkling to leave the nest I thought you might like to come with me and Amanda to the pumpkin patch Saturday morning - sort of a double date if you will."

"The pumpkin patch?"

"Yeah, next weekend is Halloween after all. And this Saturday is supposed to be beautiful weather, perfect for searching out pumpkins. Plus there's a corn maze I bet Amanda and I can totally get through it before you and HG."

"Is that a challenge, Lattimer?"

"Depends."

"On what?" Myka asks.

"On whether you choose to accept it as the challenge it is."

Myka shakes her head and laughs. "I can assure you that Helena and I beating you two through the corn maze would be no challenge at all."

"Oh-ho, big words from the lady. Alright then, I take it you're on for Saturday then?"

"It sounds like fun. I'll have to check with Helena first, but yeah, I think we'll most likely join you on your excursion to the pumpkin patch."

"Excellent," Pete enthuses with a clap of his hands. "We'll pick you gals up at your place bright and early."

"We can just meet you there," Myka suggests instead, uncertain she wants to be in a vehicle with Pete for the forty-five minute drive and certain Helena won't.

"Nah, let's drive together, it'll be more fun that way, not to mention eco friendly," he points out.

"Well you're right about one of those statements at least," she agrees.

"Hey! I'll have you know, I am the epitome of fun."

"Sure you are, Pete. I'll check with Helena about the driving situation too before I agree to anything."

"Man, you are so whipped," he grins.

"I am not whipped," she protests. "I'm considerate of her preferences that's all."

"Sure, that's it. Well let me know what you and the misses decide and we'll make final plans," he says leaving her office and letting her alone with her thoughts once more.

She is totally whipped, and she knows it.


They go out to dinner and a movie Friday night, the quintessential date night. Dinner is a more of a hurried affair than their last dinner date as they need to make the movie on time, but's it's still pleasant, especially with no conversation about former lovers, for which they're both grateful.

They sit in the back row because it's where Helena prefers to sit. "Sometimes it's more interesting to watch the audience members than the film," she'd once explained to Myka early in their friendship and Myka has to agree, sometimes it is.

Tonight happens to be one of those times. The movie isn't bad, but's it's predictable and Helena soon finds her attention waning from the screen to her fellow audience members. It doesn't take long for her to spot an interesting couple a few rows ahead and seated near an aisle. They appear to be teenagers and at the moment, finding each other much more interesting than the movie as they're locked in a heated make-out session.

Helena chuckles under her breath, catching Myka's attention.

"What's so funny?" she leans in to whisper.

"Romeo and Juliet over there," Helena whispers back.

Myka turns her focus towards Helena's direction to see the young couple in a lip-lock. "I didn't know people really made out like that in theaters," she whispers back.

"Really?" Helena asks incredulous, but still managing to keep her voice to a whisper. "You've never gone to the movies simply to make-out?"

Myka shakes her head. "I go to the movies to watch the movie," she shoots back. "Are you saying you have done that…in public?"

"Of course," Helena answers smugly, "on more than one occasion."

"And you knew that was your date's intention when they asked you?"

"Who said it was my date's intention?"

Myka's eyes widen.

"And who says that isn't the reason why I've asked you here tonight," she smirks, leaning in closer to Myka.

Myka can feel her heart begin to race with the implication, but she knows Helena is only teasing her. "I'm not making out with you in a movie theater like a teenager, Helena."

"Oh very well. Spoilsport," she huffs, turning her attention back to the screen.

Myka grins at the way Helena pretends to pout. Raising the armrest between them, she reaches over to take Helena's hand in hers, smiling when Helena turns surprised eyes on her.

Myka ignores the question in Helena's eyes and just smiles wider, holding out her opened package of Twizzlers, offering them to Helena who smirks in return, taking a licorice whip from the package. "Sharing your Twizzlers with me? It must be love," she quips.

"Must be," Myka agrees in the same light tone, knowing of course that it is love, at least for her. She tries to focus her attention back to the movie, but it's a lost cause with Helena's hand warm in hers, and her stomach fluttering at every soft brush of Helena's thumb against her knuckles.

When they arrive home that night, on what is clearly meant to be their second organized date night as Myka is now mentally calling them, she is very much aware of the fact, remembering what transpired on their last date as it came to a close. She grows more nervous with each passing step on the way to their apartment door anticipating Helena to ask her for kiss goodnight, and the different response she intends to give.

But the question doesn't come. Instead Helena searches inside her purse for her keys to let them inside the apartment, but unable to locate them, Myka pulls out her keys to unlock the door and let them inside.

"Thank you, Myka. I had a lovely time tonight," Helena tells her, removing her coat and hanging it in the closet.

"Even though the movie was predictable?" Myka asks removing her own coat to put away.

"The movie may have been a little lackluster but the company certainly was not," she grins. Walking towards the kitchen she asks, "Do you want some ice cream before bed?"

"Umm. No, thanks, I think I'm good," Myka manages to say at a loss where she misjudged Helena's intent. She watches Helena dish out a small scoop of ice cream for herself.

"So Pete and Amanda will be here by eight tomorrow morning, is that right?"

"Yeah, that's what he said," Myka says trying to dispel any disappointment she's feeling at the moment.

"I hope I can stand being in a car with Pete for nearly an hour each way."

Myka laughs. "You and me both. Still, I'm looking forward to the pumpkin patch - I haven't been to one in a few years."

"I'm looking forward to it as well," Helena says finishing her ice cream and putting the dish away in the washer. "Well, since it will be an early morning, I think I'll turn in for the night."

"Oh, sure," Myka says taken aback since a glance at her watch reveals it's not quite ten o'clock yet and they are usually in the habit of staying up later on the weekends. "Is everything okay?"

"Of course. It's just been a long, eventful week, what with work, Kempo class, Abigail's visit and our subsequent trips to the lovely DMV and social security offices."

Myka laughs. "It has been an eventful week, you're right."

"Yes, and since I won't have the chance to sleep in tomorrow to try to recoup from it, I think I'll retire now."

"When you put it that way, I should probably get to bed early too."

"Shall we then?" Helena asks, extending her hand to Myka who takes it readily, trying unsuccessfully with her other hand to quell the fluttering in her stomach at the innocent gesture. But apparently the fluttering will not be quelled. Being led by Helena this way, their hands entwined as they walk through their apartment, crossing the living room to the short hallway that leads to their bedroom is oddly intimate. They often retire at the same time each night, but not hand in hand as they are now.

However, the hand holding ends abruptly the moment they enter the bedroom and Myka is left watching Helena cross the room to open a bureau drawer, pulling out the light blue camisole and flannel pajama pants she seems to favor. "I'll just be a moment," she says before disappearing into the bathroom to change.

Myka forces herself to take a deep breath, laughing at herself that a little innocent hand-holding can get her so worked-up. But it isn't only the matter of Helena holding her hand leading her to their bedroom just now. They had held hands through most of the movie tonight. In all the times they've gone to the movie theater, that's never happened before. It almost makes her believe that there's been a subtle shift in their relationship. But it's probably only wishful thinking on her part. And Helena didn't kiss her tonight as Myka had thought (hoped) she would. Of course, she could be the one to initiate a kiss. She did last time. If she did it before, she could do it again, right? It wouldn't be overstepping any kind of line if it were under the guise of their date, right? This is what couples do after a pleasant date; they share a kiss. It's not unusual. But they're not a couple, not really, and the fluttering in Myka's stomach turns into a sinking sensation at the thought.

"Myka?"

"What?" she startles from her thoughts to see Helena standing at the edge of the bed, changed into her sleep wear, staring at her thoughtfully.

"The bathroom is free for you to use to change," Helena tells her.

"Okay, thanks," she says hurrying to pull out clothes from her bureau drawer.

"Are you alright?"

"Sure. Why wouldn't I be?"

"I don't know. You looked troubled about something just a now."

"Nope, I'm fine. Good, actually. I'll just get changed," she says ducking into the bathroom before she makes more of a fool of herself.

Helena is already is in bed, covers pulled over her shoulders, ready for sleep by the time Myka finishes changing for bed and steps out the bathroom. She's disappointed that Helena doesn't want to stay up to talk, at least a little, but quickly shoves away any lingering disappointment as she pulls back the covers from her side of the bed to slip inside.

She's just gotten settled comfortably when she hears Helena speak up.

"Tonight was our second date."

Myka feels the fluttering in her stomach that had abated earlier return with a flourish now. "That's right, it was," she says, pleased that she manages to keep any breathlessness she may feel from her voice.

"And as you pointed out to me from our first date, now, when we're about to say goodnight is a more accurate time to ask for a kiss goodnight," she says rising onto an elbow to look down at Myka. "May I kiss you goodnight, Myka?"

Heart thundering in her chest and voice caught in her throat, Myka simply nods, watching a smile bloom across Helena's features before she is lowering her mouth to Myka's in a soft, lingering kiss.

And Myka has a million and one questions running through her mind. Namely, do these kisses mean something to Helena the way they do for her? Are they real or are they just a means to become more comfortable displaying affection in front of others as needed? At some point she knows they need to discuss what exactly this intimate display really means but for now she doesn't want to risk an answer that will disappoint and so she instead surrenders to Helena's kiss, tasting a hint of mint toothpaste on her lips before Helena pulls away with a soft smile.

"Goodnight, darling," Helena tells her, settling back onto her pillow.

"Mmhmm," Myka mumbles.

She can't be sure, but over the sound of her beating heart, it sounds like Helena emits a throaty chuckle at her incoherent response.


The pumpkin patch is brimming with people, mostly young families when they arrive early Saturday morning. The foursome follows a family inside that consists of two young children, a boy and girl. The little boy isn't walking yet and his parents have dressed him in a pumpkin costume for the occasion.

"Man we are so doing that to our kids when we have them," Pete chuckles.

"It is cute," Amanda agrees.

"And no doubt humiliating for him when his mother shows the pictures to his first date when he's seventeen," Myka mutters.

"Speaking from experience there, Mykes?" Pete laughs.

"Maybe," she answers non-committedly.

"Really?" Helena can't help the chuckle that escapes her. "I'll have to ask your mother if I can see that photograph the next time we're over there for dinner."

"That's not necessary."

"Oh I think it most certainly is. I bet you were adorable. Besides everyone has those embarrassing pictures, it's all in good fun and look how happy they are," she says motioning to the children ahead of them. "That little girl dressed with fairy wings on her back is having the time of her life right now. Today will be such a happy memory for her," Helena sighs wistfully.

"You sound nostalgic, Helena. Are their any plans for the pitter patter of tiny feet in your household any time soon?" Amanda asks.

Helena glances at Myka furtively. "We haven't really discussed the matter in detail. Though, regardless of our feelings on the matter of children, we have no plans to have them any time in the near future," she answers honestly.

"Well I can't wait to have kids," Pete says. "I want half a dozen at least."

"Oh really?" Amanda looks at him pointedly. "And do you plan to carry them inside you for nine long months and then give birth to them? I thought we agreed on two with an option for three."

"You sound as though you're making a business deal," Helena laughs.

"Well, in a way it kind of is," Amanda says. "I enjoy my career, I don't necessarily want to give that up to have kids. Having two I think is manageable, at least I hope so."

"No matter how many kids we end up having, two, four, maybe more," Pete grins, "you're going to make a great mom," he says pulling Amanda to him and kissing her soundly.

"And you're going to make a great dad," she smiles back.

"All right already, you're both going to be great parents, I thought we came here for pumpkins not to discuss potential parenthood," Myka says.

"Yes, I'm starting to shiver, let's please get something warm to drink and possibly something to eat as well," Helena adds.

"Now you're talking my language, HG, I could definitely do with some food," Pete remarks.

"When can't you?" Myka asks heading towards a building that looks like it might serve something warm.

Thankfully their search proves successful and they each come away with steaming cups of apple cider and freshly baked apple fritters, Myka and Helena sharing one between them.

A horse-drawn wagon passes by them, full of hay. "Oh, Myka, let's go for a hayride," Helena exclaims delighted at the prospect. She turns shining eyes on Myka so that she's helpless to refuse.

"Okay, let's go," she agrees.

Helena grabs her hand, pulling her along to the wagon, climbing into it, Myka following after her and Pete and Amanda joining them. The wagon ride begins a tour of the farm and as the brisk autumn air whips against their faces, Helena scoots closer to Myka's side and burrows herself against Myka for extra warmth. Myka wraps an arm around her and pulls her a little closer.

The fall colors are vibrant on the farm's acreage and as they pass by the pumpkin field, it's full of people out to collect pumpkins for the season. There's another field full of corn stalks, a sign showing where to go for the maze and they pass by a large barn that advertises a petting zoo.

"We're definitely going to the petting zoo after this and then it's on for the corn maze," Pete says excitedly.

Myka grins at his exuberance and finds herself catching on. It's been years since she's come to a pumpkin patch, but riding in a wagon among the scent of hay, the crispness in the air, warm apple cider to drink and Helena huddled close beside her, she's loving the time spent here and knows the memory of this day will stay with her years to come.

"You're on, Lattimer, but you're going to lose in the maze," Myka warns with a grin.

"Oh yeah? We'll just see about that Bering-Wells," he throws back at her.

Myka looks at Helena to see a smile dancing on her lips at the combined name and she feels her heart swell at the sight and that Helena nestles even closer to her side at the mention of their combined name.

Yes it feels good to be here today.

After the hayride comes to an end, the group of friends makes their way to the large barn to look at the animals. Goats, pigs, and chickens occupy the space. The foursome stops at each pen to watch the animals eat and in the case of the baby pigmy goats, frolic and play.

"We need to get a pygmy goat, Amanda, they're like puppies."

"Puppies that eat everything," Amanda responds unimpressed with Pete's declaration.

"Including grass. Just think, no more having to mow the lawn."

"Mmm. Sorry, but we're not getting any goats no matter how cute they are," she says reaching down to pet one. "And they are cute," she agrees.

Myka also reaches down to pet another goat behind the ears. "Sweet too," she smiles. Only Helena doesn't seem enamored with the small goats, standing slightly behind Myka, just watching her pet the animal.

"You don't want to pet these little guys?" Myka asks her.

"No thank you, I'd rather not sully my hands."

Myka shakes her head. "They have a bottle of purell on the wall you know."

Helena glances in the direction Myka points. "In that case, very well," she says reaching to pet a goat too. "Their fur is coarser than I would have thought."

Myka laughs. "No worries of you wanting one then?"

"Heavens no."

They move on to look at the piglets and chicks before a dog comes to greet them, nuzzling under Myka's hand to gain attention.

"Hello there, where did you come from?" she asks smiling and dropping to her knees to rub the dog's coat, giving him a scratch behind the ears for good measure. "Such a good boy," she says in response to a bark.

Helena discreetly takes out her phone, snapping a couple quick photos before turning on the video recorder, wanting to capture how happy Myka is in this moment to have always.

"Looks like you've made a friend," she tells her.

"Any dog is a friend," Myka insists brushing dirt from her jeans when she finally gets up after the dog bounds away to greet someone else.

"Well what do you ladies say to the corn maze?" Pete asks. "Ready to lose?"

"I though I already told you once Lattimer, their is no competition as to who is going to make it through the maze first."

"You talk big, but let's see how well you actually walk."

Myka rolls her eyes but grabs Helena by the hand to lead her to the field of corn stalks anyway.

That corn maze took longer than I thought it would," Pete says.

"Because you got lost," Myka interjects from the backseat.

"Hey, I didn't get lost, I got turned around, there's a difference," he defends.

"Sure there is, honey," Amanda croons beside him.

"Yes, we'll be that as it may, it is getting to be near lunch time and Myka and I wondered if you'd like to stop somewhere on the way home for lunch," Helena says.

Myka can see the way Pete's eyes light up at the suggestion. "Ooh, that sounds like an offer I can get behind."

"Except it's an offer we'll unfortunately have to decline," Amanda says. "We've already made plans to see a movie this afternoon, remember, Pete?"

"Right, the movie, I forgot."

"You can't see the movie at another showing?" Helena inquires.

"Already bought our tickets online," Amanda explains.

"Oh, that's a shame. Myka mentioned you wanted to try that new sandwich shop, Pete. We thought since we're all here together it would be the opportune time to try it out."

"Oh man, I've been waiting ages for that place to open. Maybe we could see the movie later?"

Amanda gives him a scathing look that makes him swallow hard and thankfully goes unnoticed by the two women in the backseat. "You know we really can't, Pete. We've had this planned for weeks to see the movie this afternoon," she says significantly.

"So what movie are you seeing?" Myka asks.

"Some chick-flick Amanda wants to see," Pete answers vaguely. "I'd rather go home and watch Iron Man or Ant-Man or some other manly movie."

"We've already seen both of those at least a dozen times, including last night," Amanda rebuts.

Myka laughs. "I can't believe you've really put up with watching a movie called Ant-Man so many times, Amanda."

"Why not? I like superhero movies."

"Yeah, but Ant-Man," Myka scoffs. "Just the name alone puts me off."

"That's because you have no respect for the genius that is Stan Lee," Pete says.

Helena sighs, already preparing herself for the ensuing argument. "I think we were discussing stopping for lunch, however did we get on the topic of superheroes and the merit of their doltish names?"

"Hey, they're not…doltish," the word foreign on his tongue, "they're accurately descriptive," Pete defends. "Iron Man, Captain America, Batman, Spider-Man, and for you ladies, Wonder Woman. They're classic."

"They're unimaginative," Helena insists.

"You think you can do better?" Pete asks finding her reflection in the rear view mirror.

"Quite."

"Alright then, you're a superhero, what's your power and your name then?" he challenges.

"Simple. My name would be the Time Traveler and I could manipulate time to pass through years, decades, centuries..."

"The Time Traveler," Pete mimics her accent. "Actually that's not a bad name."

"And I would travel with the knowledge of my current time," Helena continues, ignoring the interruption, "so that by going back in time, I could change the future to be a wondrous world with no war, crime or disease, thereby eliminating the need for a superhero at all."

"Actually that's not a bad power either," he admits. "I'd read that comic, probably watch the movie too."

"Why thank you, Pete, that's high praise indeed coming from you with your comic book expertise."

"You know what my superpower would be? Eating," he says not waiting for a response.

"That's not a superpower," Myka scoffs.

"You didn't let me finish. I'd have to eat to power my super human strength, so I'd basically be eating all the time."

"How is that different from now, honey?" Amanda asks grinning.

"Well for one thing, I'd also have killer metabolism so I wouldn't gain wait and did you not hear the part about super human strength? I mean I'm talking lifting semi-trucks with one arm kind of strength."

"Mmm. So basically you're Superman without the flying capability," she points out.

"No," Pete refutes then thinks about it a moment. "Okay, yeah, that's about right."

Amanda laughs and hovers over the console to kiss his cheek. "Well, you'll always be my superman."

"I hope so," he says a little more seriously than the conversation has warranted. "Okay, then, what would your superpower be?" he asks curious.

"You mean besides my superior beauty that makes men fall to their knees in supplication you mean?" she teases earning an unseen eye roll from Myka and a very much audible huff of exasperation from Helena.

"Very mature, Amanda," Helena groans.

"There's nothing wrong with embracing one's beauty. But seriously, I think my superpower would be something along the line, of being able to bend people's will in a positive way. Changing the minds of those that seek to cause pain and suffering."

"That's more admirable. Lady Justice you would be. Well then, what about you, Myka?"

"I don't know, I haven't really given it much thought," she tries to deflect.

"Come on, Mykes, it's not a question with a wrong answer. It's just any power or skill you'd like."

"I don't know, right now teleportation is looking good. I could just teleport myself home instead of enduring this car ride and conversation about hypothetical superpowers."

"Teleportation would be awesome," Pete says ignoring her sarcasm. "So are we talking a power you just have or an object you have to use like a portkey in Harry Potter?"

Myka sighs, getting pulled into the conversation against her better judgment. "Well, it's a superpower right? I'm going to go with something I can just do rather than having to use some object."

"Hey, there's nothing wrong with a superhero using an object that has superpowers. Case in point, Thor's hammer," Pete says. "Or Iron Man's suit."

"I really don't see the point of discussing the merits of superpowers versus superhero tools like Thor's hammer," Myka says. "If we're talking about the superhero universe, I think Peggy Carter puts them all to shame. She's not a not a superhero at all but an intelligent, strong, competent woman who holds her own against any superhero."

"Peggy Carter is awesome," Pete agrees.

"Do you truly admire the character or is it just because you have a crush on Hayley Atwell?" Helena asks her.

"Why can't it be both?" Myka asks smiling.

"I knew it! I knew you had a crush on her!"

Myka laughs. "What can I say, I'm a sucker for English accents."

"Mmm. Should I be jealous?" Helena asks her.

Myka takes her hand, holding it on the seat between them, telling her seriously, "You have no reason to be jealous."

Helena lets out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding. "Glad to hear it."

When they finally arrive back at their apartment building, Pete asks, "Hey, since we're here, you got anything good to eat in your fridge?" he asks hopefully, ignoring the glare Amanda is shooting him. "I could use a snack."

"Seriously, Pete, can't you wait until you get to the theater?" Myka says exasperated. "It's like ten minutes from here."

"I know, but depending where we park, it's another five and besides I'm hungry now."

"You really are a man child sometimes. I don't know how you put up with him, Amanda," Helena says.

"Sometimes I wonder how myself," she admits, still glaring at Pete.

"Hey, you'd be hungry all the time too if you had this godlike figure to maintain."

"Oh my word, it's getting thick in here," Helena drawls.

"Actually if you wouldn't mind, I could use a bathroom break before we head on. I think I had one too many apple ciders at the pumpkin patch," Amanda says.

"Oh, right. Yeah, me too. I could also use a bathroom break," Pete chimes in, receiving another glare from Amanda.

"Sure, come on up then," Myka tells them, exiting the car.

The four of them squeeze into the elevator, Helena pushing the button for the fourth floor.

When the elevator arrives at their floor, she is the first to get off, walking the short distance to their apartment door. She fumbles for a moment searching for her keys inside her purse.

Myka comes up behind her, keys in hand and smiling as though this is a common occurrence for them, she gently maneuvers Helena out of the way so she can fit her key into the lock.

"Always coming to my rescue, aren't you, darling?" Helena beams back.

Before Myka is given a chance to respond, Pete is saying, "Yeah, yeah, alright. Right now she's coming to my rescue 'cause I really got to go, so if you could put some speed on, Mykes, time is of the essence."

Myka rolls her eyes but complies with his request and opens the door, ushering Helena inside with a hand at the small of her back. She and Helena have only taken a step inside when they're bombarded with a loud chorus of "Surprise!" coming at them from inside the apartment as well as from Pete and Amanda just behind them.

Stunned, it takes Myka a moment to process that standing in her apartment are Leena, Claudia, Steve, her mother and Tracy, all grinning at she and Helena as if they just pulled off a grand scheme, which of course they have.

"What is all this about?" she asks, glancing about the room to see various decorations that are suspiciously wedding-themed.

"This is your bridal shower," Tracy squeals triumphantly.

"And I suppose you got in here with the emergency key I gave you to be used strictly for emergencies," Myka says.

"What do you think this is?" Tracy asks completely serious. "You and Helena have been married for weeks now, of course it was necessary to give you a shower. Now let go of Helena for one moment so you can both sit down."

Myka looks down at her hand that is curled protectively around Helena's arm. She didn't even realize she was holding onto her. She must have done it when she was so startled, even her body is in front of Helena as if to guard her. She drops Helena's arm now, quickly grasping her own neck and speaking agitatedly. "Tracy, didn't we tell you we didn't want a bridal shower?"

Tracy pretends to ponder the question. "Mmm, one could have determined based on your hesitance on the topic that you didn't want one, but you never outright said no, only that you'd think about it. Fortunate for you, Leena called me."

Myka glances at Leena for explanation who grins at her. "I found Tracy's number listed on your emergency contact card at work."

"The emergency contact card that's meant for emergencies?" Myka sighs in defeat, already knowing she's fighting a losing battle.

"You did say that day we found out about your marriage and discussing a possible celebration that I should talk to your sister. I know you weren't really serious about it, but, well, we wanted to celebrate your and Helena's marriage, even if for some reason you don't."

"Myka, really you're putting up a fuss about nothing," Jeannie says. "Your friends and family want to do this for both of you."

"I know but it's really not necessary," Myka tries to explain. But how can she possibly explain that this simple celebration is the cause of such conflicting emotions. How can she explain she is touched by their sincerity and generosity, and that under normal circumstances this celebration would be entirely welcomed but under these abnormal circumstances it only makes her feel embarrassed and undeserving? Really all she wants to do now is climb into bed, pull the covers over her head and wish this little party had never come to be, despite her family and friends' best intentions.

That is until she feels a hand being slipped into hers and Helena leaning into her side, her lips so close Myka can feel her warm breath against the skin of her neck where Helena practically nuzzles her. "Come on, darling, we are newlyweds, it's only proper we have some sort of party to celebrate the occasion," she tries to soothe Myka's distress. "It's very considerate of you all," she addresses the rest of the group and Myka and I do appreciate it, though we are terribly surprised."

"Terrible at being surprised I think you mean," Pete says before biting into a sandwich.

"Pete!" Amanda scolds. "We're not eating yet. And you should have let Myka and Helena get food first."

"But I'm hungry and they're not even sure they want this shindig. I didn't want to miss out on the food before they decide what to do. For all we know, they could kick us out of here."

"I'm not going to kick you out, Pete," Myka says resigned.

"Does that mean the bridal shower is a go?" Claudia asks.

"Yeah," Myka sighs.

"Good because I got you an awesome gift I don't want to return."

"I think you mean, we got you an awesome gift," Steve interjects.

"Fine, Steve and I got you both an awesome gift," Claudia amends.

"Since Pete has already started eating we may as well join him," Leena says. "We've got an assortment of food, salads, cold cuts for sandwiches, some pasta so dig in."

Still holding Helena's hand, Myka allows herself to be led to the kitchen where Leena's assessment of an assortment of food appears to be an understatement. Food is spread out across the entire counter and at the first scent of Leena's lasagna, Myka's stomach rumbles in anticipation.

Helena hears the rumbling and grins at her. "Someone is hungry."

"It is almost one o'clock and the last thing I've eaten was that apple fritter you insisted I share with you."

"I don't recall you offering any protest. In fact as I recall, it was quite easy to get you to accept half."

"It was huge! You couldn't have possibly managed to eat it by yourself."

"Pete ate three."

Myka simply stares at Helena after her inadequate comeback.

"Oh, yes fine, I realize that didn't sell my point, but I think given enough time to savor it, I could have managed to eat the entire pastry."

"Did you really want to? I mean, did you only offer half to me to be polite?" Myka asks worried.

"No," Helena tells her. "Nothing made me happier than to share breakfast with you, except perhaps beating Pete and Amanda through the corn maze. No, actually, Pete getting lost in the corn maze and breaking through that wall of corn in a panic may have been the highlight of the morning."

Myka laughs. "He's never going to live that down."

"Because we won't let him," Helena agrees.

"Are you two still going on about that," Pete whines, coming into the kitchen in time to hear the tail end of their conversation. "Getting lost could have happened to anybody."

"We didn't get lost," Myka says.

"Neither did Amanda," Helena points out. "How did you become separated anyway?"

"I don't want to talk about it - it'll just add fuel to the already plenty stoked flame."

They all gather their food and sit down to eat, the conversation flowing freely. On occasion Myka steals a glance a the stack of gifts on the table, worrying about the money their friends spent on gifts, making a mental note to remember who gave what so that when the marriage dissolves, hopefully after Helena successfully obtains residency and not when she's deported and Myka imprisoned, she can return them to the givers with an apology.


"Okay, time for opening gifts," Tracy declares.

"You really shouldn't have bothered to give us gifts," Myka protests. "I told you before that between Helena and I, we already have everything we need."

"Yeah, two of them," Claudia inserts, thinking of all the unpacking she helped with two weeks before.

"And I told you, Myka," Tracy says, "that these gifts, this bridal shower isn't about necessity but about celebrating. So, with that in mind, let's get started. Oh, and I should mention that the tradition is, however many ribbons you break while opening the gifts, that's supposedly how many children you'll have. So good luck," she grins.

Myka's eyes widen when she realizes all the packages are tied with ribbon.

Helena notices Myka's dubious look and says, "That is certainly a challenge if ever one has been issued."

Tracy laughs. "I broke three at my shower and as you can see I'm well on my way to fulfilling that prophecy," she says patting her protruding stomach.

"I won't break any ribbons," Myka says determined.

The gift opening goes well through the first few packages, Myka and Helena alternating opening the gifts. Myka takes such painstaking care not to tear into anything, tediously untying knots purposely made in the hope they would be broken that Pete takes to heckling her while she does open the gifts just trying to get a rise out of her and ruining her efforts. It doesn't work and Helena takes her cue from Myka, being equally careful in opening the gifts.

"We're going to be here all day at the rate you're going," Pete complains.

"I'm sorry, are you the one who's under pressure about a silly superstition that will result in you carrying a child or multiple children?" Myka asks agitated.

Pete holds his hands up in surrender. "Sor-ry," he drawls out. "I had no idea you were so superstitious."

"I'm not. I just...it's like a game and I don't want to lose."

"I don't think you understand really how babies come to be, especially in your situation. You can relax, nothing is going to happen unless you both want it to happen."

"I know that," Myka says relaxing her hold a little on the latest pesky ribbon.

"Besides, if you don't want to carry the kids, there's always HG, am I right, HG?"

"As overjoyed as I am to discuss my fertility plans with you in front of everyone, especially when Myka and I haven't exactly discussed such things other than a brief generalization, yes, I would be agreeable to carrying a child."

"See, Mykes, relax. HG will carry the kids," Pete says unfazed by Helena's sarcastic response.

Myka doesn't respond, finally getting the ribbon off the current gift she's opening without a problem. She and Helena pull the wrapping off together to reveal: "You got us a camera!" Myka exclaims stunned.

Claudia grins. "Yep."

"Ah-hem," Steve interrupts.

"Okay fine, Steve and I got you a camera. It's charged and loaded with a memory card too, so it's all ready to go."

"I can't believe you got us a camera," Helena says shaking her head in disbelief.

Claudia shrugs, taking he box from them and taking the camera out. "As far as I know, neither of you have a good camera, only your phone cameras and I…we," she says glancing at Steve, "just thought you should have something more substantial." She turns it on and takes a quick snapshot of them both looking overwhelmed.

"It's got a good video recorder on it too, for recording all the memories you'll be making," Steve smiles at them.

"I bet I know what kind of memories they'll be recording," Pete laughs.

"Pete!" Amanda scolds.

"What? I was talking about the arrival of their new niece or nephew, what are you thinking?"

"Never mind," Amanda says subdued as Pete smirks at her, knowing exactly what she was thinking.

"Anyway," Claudia breaks in, "I'll be your photographer the rest of the afternoon. I figure you might want some pictures of this party."

"Thank you, that's very thoughtful," Helena says sincerely, glancing at Myka.

Finally, just as they think they've come to the end of opening gifts, Tracy pulls two more from a bag. "Okay, so I have gifts for you both separately, but they're kind of the same, so you'll have to open them together," she explains as she hands them each a brightly wrapped box.

The boxes aren't very large but they are wrapped with more abominable ribbons and Myka and Helena take their time so as not to break a ribbon, which they have managed to do so far without incident. And as these appear to be the last packages to open, neither wants to break their run.

It's Helena whom removes the ribbon on her package first, and lifting the lid, she parts tissue paper and gasps at the item inside.

Hearing her gasp, Myka leans closer to Helena to peer inside the box to see lingerie. Lingerie that is blue and appears to be made of satin with a lace trim at the bustline and when Helena holds it up against her at the request of the rest of the group to see what she received, Myka notices the lingerie is little more than a slip and when worn, will leave so much body on display. Helena's beautiful, perfect body.

She hears the snap of the ribbon clutched in her hand before she feels it oddly enough, but that may be because shouts and laughter accompany the sound.

"You broke a ribbon!" Tracy cheers. "And it was my gift that did the trick."

"Ha! Guess since you broke the ribbon, you'll have one kid after all. Pete tells them.

Myka wants the floor to open up and swallow her whole and not only because of Pete's statement or Tracy's delight over Myka essentially losing her little party game, but because it must be written all over her face how much she wants to see Helena in that piece of lingerie - it must be obvious how much she wants Helena to everyone in the room, including Helena and Myka doesn't know how to deal with such a revelation.

"Go on and finish opening yours," Tracy tells her with a knowing smirk. And Myka really doesn't want to, considering her package is the same shape as Helena's. But a look of interest in Helena's eyes encourages her to follow through and as expected she finds lingerie inside just as she knew she would. It looks like the same design but rather than blue, hers is a pretty lavender color. And also inside the box that she failed to notice when Helena opened her gift, is a pair of matching panties made of lace. Oh god.

"Go on, hold it up the way Helena did hers so Claudia can get a picture," Tracy instructs. Myka does as she's told and when she bravely glances at Helena, the look in her eyes is nothing Myka has seen before. She doesn't know what that look means but it makes her heart thud in her chest and she feels a pull in her stomach.

"So what do you think of them?" Tracy asks.

Myka breaks her stare to look at Tracy, but still affected by the way Helena is looking at her she can't seem to form a response.

Helena answers for her and says, "These are a very thoughtful gift. They're lovely, Tracy and we're sure to make good use of them, won't we darling?" she smiles.

"Mmm," Myka nods not meeting her eyes and trying hard not to visualize exactly how they would make good use of these particular articles of clothing.

"I'm so glad you like them," Tracy says clapping her hands in excitement. "I know you probably already have something like this, but this is your bridal shower and typically the bride does receive this kind of gift so I couldn't resist getting you both lingerie."

"Are you sure you couldn't have resisted just a little?" Myka asks, finally finding her voice again.

"Oh you! You can't deny that you want to see how it looks on Helena. I saw your face when she revealed it, everyone did. You broke a ribbon."

"Because I was...surprised."

"Funny, that's a strange word to use in place of aroused."

"Tracy! Enough teasing," Jeannie gently chastises, noticing Myka's discomfort.

"Fine, but Myka, do you remember that day I called you at work a while back?" Tracy smirks.

Myka's eyes grow wide in realization. "This is why?"

"Uh-huh. You're welcome," she winks.

"What is this secret conversation you are apparently having?" Helena asks looking to Myka for an explanation.

Tracy provides one before Myka can say a word. "I called Myka at work the day after dinner at Mom and Dad's place to ask her what color she liked best on you. Guess what the answer was."

Myka really wishes the floor would swallow her whole about now.

"Well I hardly think that's much of a secret. I'm aware Myka prefers me in blue more than any other color, that's why I wear it as often as I do."

"You do?" Myka asks truly surprised. "You wear blue for me?"

"Well, not entirely for you, darling, I do happen to love the color as well, but once I realized how much more you seemed to like it when I wear blue, yes, I have made more of a conscious effort to wear it."

Despite knowing the answer will probably embarrass her further, Myka asks anyway, "How did you know I liked blue on you best of all?"

"Your eyes," Helena says softly, "they linger."

And yep, definitely embarrassing. "Ah," Myka swallows. "Sorry."

"Don't be," Helena grins.

"All right, gifts are opened, admired, etcetera, it's time for cake," Pete declares.

"Really, you're hungry again?" Helena asks him.

"Um, there's cake, so yeah," he answers.

"Honestly, I'm hungry again too," Tracy admits, looking at the cake longingly.

"You're eating for two. That's understandable," Amanda tells her. "Pete on the other hand…"

"Hey, I'm a growing boy," he protests.

"That's technically true," Amanda smiles, gently prodding him in the stomach.

"Is that a dig at my love handles?"

"Not at all. You know I love your love handles," Amanda says kissing his cheek.

"Okay, moving on before I lose my lunch," Claudia interrupts. "The cake looks great, Leena."

"Thank you," Leena answers, gathering plates and silverware.

"You made the cake, Leena?" Myka asks.

"I did. I know cake isn't your favorite dessert, Myka, but Tracy insisted there be a cake today and I remembered you did enjoy my lemon layered cake with raspberry filling I made for the last office party so thought it would be appropriate for today."

"That's very sweet of you, Leena, thank you. And it looks wonderful. But why did Tracy insist on a cake today?" she asks even though she fears the answer.

"Because you two have to cut the cake and feed each other like newlyweds are supposed to do," Tracy answers her as though it's the most obvious thing in the world.

Helena arches a brow in surprise. "Is that so?"

"Yes, now get to it. The rest of us are dying to have some of that incredible looking cake already."

Leena hands Myka a large knife to cut into the cake with and while everyone else gathers around the table, Helena joins Myka at her side.

Myka barely registers that Claudia along with everyone else is snapping photos of them. What she is very aware of is Helena's warm hand covering her own as they cut into the cake together. She's also very much aware of the expectation placed on them to feed each other a piece of cake and watches as Helena breaks off a small morsel to do just that.

"You're not going to smear it in my face, right?" Myka tries to joke, hoping the pounding of her heart remains unnoticed by Helena and the rest of the group.

"I don't intend to," Helena answers.

It's such an awkward thing being fed by someone else but Helena manages it, carefully placing the cake in Myka's mouth. Myka can feel a smidgen of frosting dot the edge of her mouth but before she can remove it herself, Helena is brushing it away with her thumb, swiftly bringing her thumb to her own mouth to lick clean.

It's all Myka can do not to choke on her cake at the action.

"Sorry about that darling," Helena smiles, eyes alight.

"Okay, Myka, you're turn to feed Helena," Tracy insists.

The look in Helena's eyes is one of amusement at the entire ordeal. That look doesn't help Myka's nerves any and with trembling fingers, she gathers a piece of cake between them and carefully places the cake in Helena's mouth. Helena's very sensual and very warm, wet mouth, for Helena has closed her lips around Myka's fingertip, licking at it with her tongue once before Myka pulls it away with a ragged breath.

She sees the smirk on Helena's lips as she swallows the cake, sees her dark eyes alight with mischief and without a second thought, as though it's the most natural thing in the world, Myka lurches forward to kiss Helena. Hearing Helena gasp in surprise, she wraps her arms around Helena's waist to pull her closer. And when she feels Helena's lips part under hers, she slips her tongue into Helena's mouth, tasting the sweetness of the cake on Helena's tongue, feeling Helena's hand in her hair, tugging her closer as their kiss deepens.

It's only when she hears the cheers and laughter emanating from their guests that Myka remembers they have an audience and pulls away breathless and more than a little embarrassed. She drops her arms away from Helena, taking a step back, unable to hold her gaze.

But Helena doesn't allow her to go far and takes a corresponding step forward into Myka's space, leaning close to brush another kiss along her cheek as their family and friends continue to clap and laugh.

"Oh my god, you two are so sweet!" Claudia enthuses. "And I got it all that sweetness recorded for you. I'd say this is a good start to all the memories you'll be making."

"It surely is," Helena agrees still feeling the heat of that kiss on her lips, her eyes lingering on Myka, who for some reason avoids her gaze.


Later that evening, after their family and friends have gone with well wishes and an unnecessary reminder from Tracy of their plans for next weekend, the apartment is blissfully quiet once more. The living room has been restored to order aside from a few stray balloons and the gifts they received are still collected on the coffee table. Myka is in the kitchen, quietly rinsing off dishes and loading them in the dishwasher, Helena bringing in the last of them from the living room.

"That was quite the party," she says handing off the plates to Myka to rinse.

"It was."

"Unexpected, but I suppose it shouldn't have been given Tracy's interest."

"She's kind of hard to dissuade when she sets her mind on something."

"Yes, I realize that now. I'll have to keep that trait in mind for future reference. Has she always been so persistent?"

Myka laughs. "You could say that. She's just always been good at getting what she wants. Today she wanted to throw us a bridal shower of all things."

"Well, you can't deny it was a sweet gesture."

"Yeah, I guess."

Helena leans against the counter, arms folded as she studies Myka at the sink. "I know you didn't want the party, Myka, but is there something else that's bothering you?"

Myka shrugs.

"You can tell me anything you know, we're in this together."

"For better or for worse right?"

"Well uh, yes," Helena says.

"Alright then, yes, the party was incredibly sweet and generous and awkward and I didn't want it to happen. All the gifts and food and joking was meant for a happily married couple not two friends trying to beat the system to keep you from being deported."

"Are you saying you want to back out now?"

"No," Myka is quick to dispute. "No I don't want that at all, we've already discussed that. What I am saying is that this is one more layer added to the stack of lies we're perpetuating. How much more can we add to the pile before it all topples?"

"I don't know," Helena answers quietly.

"Last week my parents gave us a substantial sum of money, enough for a honeymoon or a down payment on a house, Helena. This week our friends threw us a bridal shower, giving us gifts. How am I supposed to explain to them that it was all for nothing, that none of this is real?"

"None of it?" Helena challenges softly, thinking of the heated kiss they shared only hours earlier.

Myka looks up sharply to meet Helena's gaze, seeing the quirk of her brow and feels her heart speed up at the question. She forces her gaze away, concentrating again on rinsing plates before loading them into the dishwasher. "You know what I mean. We married for an entirely different reason than our friends and family believe."

Helena sighs. "That's not entirely accurate. They are aware of the deportation issue, but yes, the situation is becoming more complicated, especially with days like this, isn't it?"

"To state it mildly," Myka says.

"I suppose all there is to do is to take it a day at a time. We've done well enough so far. I think we just have to try not to worry about what tomorrow may bring, difficult as that may be. And hope that everything works out for good in the end - that I'm not deported, that you're not fined or arrested and that through it all, our friendship remains firmly in tact. For that's my greatest fear, Myka, is that somehow, after everything you've gone through for me - that you will come to regret it. I couldn't bear to lose your friendship," Helena admits softly.

"That will never happen," Myka says adamant.

"Why not?" Helena asks, eyes dark with interest.

Because I love you is the explanation that almost tumbles from Myka's lips. But she can't say that, not now, not in the kitchen like this, in the middle of rinsing dirty dishes. Not when she doesn't know for sure how Helena would feel about the admission. That such an admission could change their friendship, possibly into something more, but more likely not, and thus adding an unnecessary strain to their relationship. She can't risk that happening.

"Because…I don't want to lose our friendship either. We are friends, Helena, and that's never going to change," Myka says instead.

"Never change," Helena repeats the words uncertainly as though the concept is something foreign to her. "You're right, of course our friendship will never change," she says. And if she had been standing very close to Myka before, she's not now, taking a step backward, distancing herself.

"Well, if you'll excuse me, I think I'll just finish tidying the living room," Helena finally says, unaware that Myka watches her go with regret.

Most of the gifts remain on the coffee table where they left them from the party when Myka is finally ready to go to bed that night. She glances over they neatly arranged gifts, noticing everything appears to be exactly as they left it except for Helena's box of lingerie is missing and so is the camera Claudia and Steve gave them. Figuring Helena must have put both items away, Myka decides to do the same with her own lingerie. Discarding the box, she unfolds it to take one more look at the lavender slip. It really is lovely, the satin smooth against her fingertips, and the lace delicate. She imagines how soft it would feel against her skin, what it would feel like to wear it, what it would be like to see Helena wear hers.

And she really can't continue down that train of thought again. It only leads to disappointment and heartache. Carefully folding the lingerie again, she takes it with her to the bedroom.

Helena is already in bed performing her nightly ritual of applying lotion to her hands and legs. Those beautiful, toned legs and Myka glances away before she is caught staring. Again. She diverts her attention instead to putting away the lingerie. Pulling open the drawer in which she keeps her bras and underwear, she places the folded lingerie in a corner, frowning at the sight of it. It's not good enough, she doesn't want this reminder everyday when she pulls out clothes to wear that she and Helena don't have the kind of relationship, the kind of marriage that warrants wearing lingerie for each other. Pursing her lips, she pushes the article of clothing deep within the drawer, out of sight and hopefully out of mind. From the same drawer she pulls out a camisole and flannel pajama bottoms before closing the drawer more forcefully than she intended.

When she turns around, Helena is watching her. "Everything alright?"

"Yeah. I'm going to get changed for bed," Myka says quickly disappearing inside the bathroom.

Dressed comfortably in pajamas moments later and her face freshly washed, Myka feels slightly better when she pulls back the covers on her side of the bed. And when did she start thinking of it as her side? The entire bed used to be hers but she has never been more willing to share anything in her life, as she is to share this bed, this apartment, this life with Helena. Things are not perfect, far from it considering the ongoing investigation into their marriage and the awkwardness that comes with that, but despite the uncomfortable moments, Myka knows she would do it all again in a heartbeat if it meant keeping Helena close to her.

Helena is sitting against the headboard with her laptop open as Myka adjusts a pillow behind her back to sit, reaching for her glasses and the latest novel she's reading that sits on her nightstand.

"Actually, if it's not too much bother, I thought we might go over some more marriage fraud interview questions tonight," Helena says.

"Oh, okay, sure," Myka says setting the book aside with some regret. She loves conversing with Helena, but so far the questions they've gone over for marriage fraud have been mundane and sometimes intrusive. Myka finds it hard to believe that she or Helena not remembering the details of their marriage ceremony (she remembers every detail) or what beverage Helena prefers with breakfast (Earl Grey tea of course) or for crying out loud, the date of her last menstruation cycle, could be cause to make or break their case. It just seems too absurd to be true, but despite that, they have diligently gone over any questions they can find on the Internet on the various sites available. "What questions have you found to go over tonight?"

"Questions about sex," Helena answers calmly.

Myka gapes at her. "Are you serious?"

"Quite."

"We could really be asked questions about our...sex life?" she stutters.

"Apparently they can, yes," Helena answers, turning her laptop to show Myka the questions.

Myka glances at the list of questions, her eyes widening as the list goes on. "I can't believe we can be asked such personal questions. It's an invasion of privacy, isn't it?"

Helena sighs. "We're dealing with a government agency. As far as they're concerned, I'm viewed as a threat. Apparently if we give the same answers about what we do in bed together, I'll no longer be perceived as a threat. Difficult as that is to believe, here it is in black and white," she says dryly.

"I don't know what to say to that."

"I am sorry, Myka, I realize this is uncomfortable." Ideally Helena would have preferred another way entirely to learn Myka's sexual preferences but that way is not an option at this point. But it doesn't mean she's not above a little teasing. "If you have another idea as to how we could go about finding out this information about each other, believe me I am perfectly amendable to any suggestions you may have," she grins.

Myka gulps at the implication. She can certainly think of another way, but that's not really an option right now.

"Besides," Helena continues when Myka doesn't answer right away, "we just had our bridal shower, received Tracy's…intimate gifts, it seemed as good a time as any to discuss the topic."

"Did you know these questions were on the list before?"

"Yes, I've scanned over several lists with minor variations, they all have basically the same kind of questions, including questions about a sexual relationship. I've just refrained from discussing them with you because it never seemed to be an appropriate time. But now…well…I thought it might be."

"Do we really have to do this tonight?"

"No, of course not, but I do think we'll have to have the discussion eventually. And as the saying goes, why put off tomorrow what you can do today? Or tonight as the case may be."

Myka is gripping the duvet, twisting it in her hand without thought until Helena stills her movements with a gentle hand. "Myka, we don't have to do this if it makes you uncomfortable."

"But we're going to have to eventually, you just said so, in case we're interviewed."

Helena studies Myka beside her for a moment. "Is it talk of sex in general that makes you uncomfortable or talking of it with me?"

Myka glances down at her hand still gripping the duvet. "A little of both actually."

"That's fine. We've never been the kind of friends that discuss our sex lives have we?" Helena is just coming to realize she's actually grateful for that fact, not wanting to envision Myka with anyone else so intimately.

"No, but sex isn't really something I've talked about much with any of my friends. Even with Tracy, I pretty much avoid the topic if I can."

"I don't really share that part of myself with friends either, lovers absolutely, but not friends," Helena says.

"Not even the 'many of my lovers have been men' comment you made to Pete shortly after you began working with us?" Myka questions.

Helena chuckles. "I'd forgotten I'd said that."

"I thought Pete's eyes were going to fall out of his head."

"Yes, well I didn't make the comment solely to get a reaction from Pete," Helena smiles looking at Myka whose heart threatens to beat right out of her chest, wondering if it was she Helena meant that comment for all those years ago.

"Now then, what's the decision for tonight? Put off the questions for another time or take the plunge?"

Taking a breath, Myka answers, "Let's go over them now and get it over with."

"Alright." Helena shifts closer to Myka so they can both view the laptop screen easily. "How often do you and your spouse engage in sexual activity in a week?" Helena reads the first question aloud.

Myka is already wishing she had decided to put these questions off for another time. "I don't know - what do you think would be an acceptable number?"

"Acceptable? I don't think there's any wrong answer here."

"There is if we don't share the same answer. So what do you think - twice a week?" Myka asks feeling uncomfortable about making up a sex life between them.

"Well, since we are supposed to be newlyweds and newly dating as well, I'd say the number should be higher. Especially considering we do work in the same office as well."

Myka frowns in confusion. "Why would working in the same office contribute to the number?"

"Really, Myka, don't tell me you've never had an office fantasy? About using a desk in substitution for a bed?" Helena smiles coyly.

Myka never had before, but now...well all right then. "So back to the number then - you think four times a week is more realistic?" she asks with a catch in her voice.

"It still depends."

"On what?"

"Are we talking about sessions we come together to make love or the number of times we make love within a session? Because they can be vastly different," Helena smirks.

Myka can't believe she's having this conversation with Helena as they share a bed. She takes a deep breath to calm her nerves. "I think they probably mean number of sessions rather than number of times within a session."

"Then yes, four times is reasonable, though for the record, I think it would be more often."

"For the purpose of the interview, let's stick with four times a week."

"Very well," Helena agrees.

"Okay, one question down. What's next?" she asks too afraid to look at the screen.

"What is your spouse's favorite sexual position?"

Myka gapes at her. "Does it really say that?"

"Have a look," Helena says adjusting the screen for Myka to read for herself.

Myka palms her neck in agitation. "I can't believe these kind of questions can be asked. It's such an invasion of privacy."

"It really is," Helena agrees. "Well then, which one of these is your preference?"

Myka glances over the few choices given and blushes. "I guess if I have to choose it would be this one," she says pointing to an option on the screen.

"The choices given are rather limited in my opinion, but still they work. And it's clear based on these positions the questions are geared toward heterosexual activity, the fact they don't even mention oral sex at all is appalling. I suppose based on what they do list I would have to answer the same position as you, but I also enjoy this one," she says tapping her finger on the screen to another choice.

Myka has a brief image of Helena in such a position and it's nearly too much to bear. "I'd imagine these choices are just examples. You could probably answer with whatever is truly your favorite."

"In that case, oral will definitely be at the top of my list. What about you, Myka? These dismal choices notwithstanding, what's your preference?"

Myka blushes even deeper if possible, barely meeting Helena's eyes. "The same as you, oral."

"That is…good to know," Helena says, clearing her throat from the dryness that suddenly overcomes her mouth with Myka's admission. "Really though, the choices here are so limited. It doesn't say anything about role playing or bondage, not to mention the use of toys," she says shaking her head in disgust.

"Would you really want a government agency to ask you about all that?" Myka asks taken off guard by the turn in conversation and trying desperately not to think of Helena and she…of them together…she's not thinking about it.

"No I wouldn't, but that doesn't change the fact these choices are still limited."

"So do you like that kind of stuff in the bedroom?" Myka asks, her curiosity getting the better of her.

"With the right partner, absolutely. It can be gratifying not to mention pleasurable and also freeing in its own way. But what about you?"

Myka bites at her lip. It's a fair question for Helena to ask since Myka asked first. "The experience I do have is pretty limited. I didn't' find it all that great to be honest." Myka shakes her head. "I guess I'm just not that adventuresome," she tries to laugh at herself.

"Or perhaps you didn't have the right partner. Someone who made you feel completely comfortable so that you could to let go and embrace such things," Helena quietly suggests. "Anyway, you must have some fantasy, some unknown desire you wish to fulfill."

"There is something I've always wanted to do but, after what we've just discussed it will sound so juvenile to you."

"I'm intrigued. Just what is it you've always wanted to try?" Helena grins.

"Please don't laugh."

"I won't," Helena promises.

Myka takes a deep breath. "I've always had a secret desire to go parking," she says biting her lip, waiting for Helena's reaction.

Helena doesn't laugh but her forehead does crease in puzzlement. "Parking? As in sitting in the back of a parked car in a semi-private area to make-out?"

"Yeah. I told you it's juvenile."

"No, not at all. I mean the backseat of a car…it's a confined space, intimate. And all you would want to do is make-out, you wouldn't want to take it further than that?"

Myka shrugs. Making out is all she'd considered before, but hypothetically, if Helena were her partner, she might be willing to take it further. "I don't really like the idea of making love in a public area where anyone could happen to see us…I mean me…in that hypothetical situation."

"And what if it were guaranteed that you wouldn't be seen, what then?" Helena asks, eyes shining.

"Then I…would consider going further I suppose."

"As fantasies go, I like yours, Myka. I may have to add it to my own list." Helena stores the information away to hopefully fulfill one day with Myka. Perhaps as a date. Yes, she can picture it now, taking Myka to some remote location, packing food as though for a picnic. And for dessert, each other. Kissing that begins slow and tender but turns heated and desperate as their desire for each other grows.

She feels her temperature rise at the thought and quickly curtails any more thoughts along those lines. "Alright, onto some more basic questions, shall we?" she asks clearing her throat and turning her attention back to the laptop. "Size of the bed - easy, queen size. What side of the bed do you sleep on? I seem to be on the left."

"Which leaves the right for me," Myka says.

Helena smiles. "Do you sleep with the lights on or off?"

"Off - although since you moved in there has been a night light," Myka says glancing at the little light plugged into the wall on Helena's side of the bed.

"It's comforting to me. I've never liked complete darkness. You'd think I had some childhood trauma regarding being left in the dark," Helena laughs at herself, "but there's nothing like that. I just don't care for it."

"There's nothing wrong with that. I was scared of the dark when I was a kid."

"How did you overcome it?"

Myka shrugs. "I don't really know. I think I just sort of outgrew it. I used to fall asleep with a flashlight - of course it was used just as much for reading after I was supposed to be asleep as it was used for a nightlight."

"Hmm. I can picture you like that, eight or nine years old, asleep with a book and flashlight tucked under your chin," Helena smiles at the warm picture she imagines.

Myka laughs. "Something like that. But my mom used to come in at night to check on me because I'd usually wake up the next morning to find the flashlight turned off and it and the book set carefully on the floor next to my bed. She never scolded me either, just let me go on reading after bedtime."

"She's been a good mother to you."

"Yeah, I lucked out."

"There is another question that is on the list tonight and one that was brought up during the party today," Helena ventures.

"What is it?" Myka asks, having a feeling she knows what topic Helena means.

"Children. The interview question asks if we plan to have children and we've only briefly touched on the subject. I just want to make sure we answer the same way."

"Well, you want them, right?"

"And you don't."

"It's not that exactly," Myka says softly. "It's just that having a child is a huge commitment, you know? The idea of being responsible for another human life, for their physical and mental wellbeing is more than a little intimidating. And I just don't know that I want that responsibility or that I'm capable of that kind of responsibility. I'm not even sure I can care for a dog, let alone a child," she laughs uncomfortably.

"A dog?" Helena asks surprised. "I thought your reason for not having a dog was because you don't have a yard."

Myka shrugs. "That's part of it, but more than that, I'm not sure of my ability to give a dog a good home, to care for it properly."

"Myka, you…I saw you with that dog on the farm today. You were so happy giving it attention and it was clearly happy to be receiving your affection judging by all the tail wagging going on," Helena smiles at the memory. "That's what a dog would most need from you is your love. After that the other responsibilities, the feeding, walking, cleaning, and caring for will all follow naturally into place. And you have so much love to give, Myka. Anyone - any dog would be fortunate to receive love from you. Don't let your fear stand in the way of that. And as long as I'm around, I'd be amendable to helping care for the dog too."

"Amendable, really?" Myka laughs.

"Yes, amendable. I like dogs well enough. And if having one would make you happy, so much the better."

Myka pictures them in bed as they are now, only with a dog sleeping at the foot of the bed, heavy on their feet. It's a nice image, one she can easily envision. It's an image that both excites and worries her. After all, what happens to the dog once their marriage ends? Do they share custody? It's a depressing thought and Myka doesn't know why she's allowing her mind to travel that path and quickly curtails it.

"Dogs aside, we should probably decide on the children question. If asked, how should we answer?"

"Well, hypothetically speaking…our marriage…if we…I mean, would you…oh I don't know what I'm trying to ask," Helena exhales, frustrated with herself.

"I think I might," Myka whispers.

"Really?" Helena asks surprised by the answer.

"I'd at least consider it, knowing it's something you want."

"But it wouldn't only about what I want. We'd have to be united on this decision. It's as you said, a huge commitment, not one to be entered into lightly."

"Yeah, but what about you? Would you be content without having a child?"

"I'm content now," Helena answers.

"But would you always be without having a child? Helena, you told me this is something you've dreamed about. And I saw you too - the way you looked at those kids we saw at the pumpkin patch today. You want a child."

"Myka, there are other ways to have a child in one's life other than to be a parent," Helena says thinking of the baby Tracy is about to have. She'll be an aunt, at least for a little while.

"Okay. But hypothetically speaking, can we agree we wouldn't have kids right away? I'd rather we were both settled in our careers, have a large savings, and own a house near good schools, that sort of thing."

Helena laughs. "You've really thought of this?" she asks delighted.

"The thought has crossed my mind. Especially since Tracy brought it up weeks ago and the way everyone else seems to keep bringing the subject up," she huffs.

"I know, it seems so absurd, given our situation," Helena chuckles.

"And it's only hypothetical, right? An answer to give if we're asked in an interview."

"Of course. All right, moving on to easier topics. What does your spouse wear to bed?" Helena reads aloud another question and glances over at Myka with a smile. "Flannel pajama bottoms and a camisole - shorts in warmer weather."

"And you wear the same," Myka points out.

"Do you sleep with a window open or closed?" Helena glances at the window in the room. "At the moment the window is firmly shut since it is fall."

"And because you get cold so easily," Myka adds. "If it was just me, I'd probably leave it open a crack to let in some fresh air."

"Really? You prefer to leave the window open no matter the weather?"

"Except maybe in a snow or wind storm. And not open enough to freeze, just enough to let in the fresh air."

"I didn't know that about you," Helena says. "I wouldn't be opposed to leaving the window open a crack - as long as you let me cuddle close to you for warmth?" she smiles hopeful, knowing Myka won't deny her that.

Myka laughs. "Cuddle away," she says slipping down under the covers.

Helena carefully sets her laptop on her bedside table before turning out the light and slipping under the covers. Regardless that the window still remains firmly closed, she shuffles closer to Myka and takes her usual position at her side, her head resting against Myka's shoulder. She feels Myka slip her arm around her shoulder and cuddles closer.

"You know, for accusing me of having a proclivity to cuddle, I think you're actually the one with the problem," Myka jokes.

"Nonsense. I simply prefer to be warm," Helena rebuts, breathing in Myka's scent, taking comfort in the familiarity of it. "And you are so very warm, Myka," Helena says, cuddling closer. Nights like this, wrapped around Myka under the warmth of bedcovers sharing stories and intimacies is fast becoming her favorite part of the day.

Helena listens to the steady sound of Myka's heartbeat beneath her ear, finding comfort in the regularity of it. She feels Myka hold on a little tighter to her and she knows without doubt there is no where else she'd rather be than right here in Myka's arms, where she belongs.