A/N: Big thanks first and foremost to Trueloveaddict-ally for Beta'ing this chapter.
Maura woke up in the middle of the night. It seemed that Peter and Olivia, who she met with Jane before turning in, were making love again and made no qualms about making it known. It sounded almost like a threesome. She didn't know if Peter could hold out much longer since he begged for breaks and rightfully so. They were doing this almost every hour on the hour and for human males, this was at their upper limit.
She always suspected that Peter was special to Olivia but this just validated it. Their rabid lust only confirmed the release of Olivia's pent up feeling for Peter since Peter seemed to be more expressive of the 2 when they were about.
Maura noted that Jane was so exhausted and slept like a rock. That was of course odd since Jane was more physically fit than her, but Maura had been waiting for this day for years now. Jane finally opened up her closeted feeling for her.
The image of taking Jane several times and literally schooling her on how much Maura wanted her was still fresh. It was great to have Jane by her side and now where more than just best friends.
They were an item. It would be a secret from everyone else, but Maura rejoiced in the fact that Jane's heart had room for her after all.
Still in deep thought, Maura suspected that Bo had something to do with this and with Fringe. 2 couples just coming out like this at the same time was statically low in probability.
Bo HAD to be special, just like almost everyone else in district 39. She exuded sensuality in everything she did. Normal things like conversations were always kicked up a notch and she did it with ease. The only being she could think of that fit that was a type of succubus.
Also Dyson was what Kendra called her dog, but DYSON was also the same name of a detective on leave. Was Dyson a shape shifter? That would explain why there was a Dire Wolf here.
Tamsin seemed to be a cold calculated warrior but not around Bo. She was warm and very attached to Bo, but it seemed like the way she kept her cool was as if she had lifetimes worth of wisdom and experience.
Lauren seemed normal but her advanced degrees in addition to her publications on gene sequencing theories were beyond reproach. She could be famous, but yet stuck to mediocrity and stayed low in here. Was she actually a doctor for these people with special powers?
Also something was amiss about Olivia's long lost twin sister, 'Liv' or as they sometimes called her 'Red'. They were identical twins true, but why did they both have the same name, Olivia? Red and Liv were nicknames. Sure Jane and Maura met Liv only briefly but it was as if she didn't quite belong here. That was just Maura's gut feeling.
She needed to think this through since Jane would probably not believe her theories and even then she doubted it to a degree as well.
Peter grunted in pain and yelled like he was just stabbed. Olivia could be heard goading him to give it all to her. WAIT. It WAS a threesome. She could hear both Olivia's arguing over what position to try next.
Wow, this was getting weird.
She finally stealthily sat upright and covered Jane up again but not before scanning her nude form.
Jane was ALL hers.
She ventured out to the mezzanine which overlooked the rear terrace and took some deep breaths when she saw Bo roaming the lower hall nude dragging a thin sheet behind her which looked like it was a table covering.
Bo, Maura observed, was deep in thought as well and a little troubled but still she walked outside to the chair facing away from her with the grace of a cat.
SUCCUBUS.
It had to be.
After some time passed she decided it was impolite to just stare and join Bo.
She didn't want to be rude so she whispered to Bo if she could join and was thankful Bo wasn't annoyed at her and asked for a back rub.
That she could do.
She made her way to Bo and slid in behind her. Lightly massaging her at first, but finally found the right pressure to apply.
'GOD Bo was a PERFECT female specimen. Not even a scratch on her body. Not even a birth mark. Her muscle structure was toned and wow her proportions…. SUCCUBUS?' Maura told herself.
Since Bo told her to stay quiet she did so knowing that Bo would open up later and continued the massage working her lower back as well.
Finally Bo did talk to her and as the sentences kept coming out, it seemed like they weren't meant for her and Bo LOVED her?
OMG
Bo thought she was Doctor Lauren Lewis. She was right. Laruen was a doctor for people with special powers but she had to reply.
Maura knew she'd blow her cover. It was inevitable, but HOW to do it was the question.
Maura decided to answer but did so professionally like she was talking about the weather.
Bo whipped her head and around and registered bewilderment and hopped out of the chair with her arms across her breasts and one between her legs.
"Maura!" Bo scolded not knowing what to say. She just gave the Fae world away to a human.
Maura tried to calm her down standing up slowly and mentioned, "My lips are sealed Bo. Not that Jane would believe me anyway and I…. I'm in your debt. It was you that help Jane open up to me right?"
Bo nodded feeling a little shy.
"Oh god," Maura yanked the sheet from the chair and covered Bo. "How rude of me Bo. But TRUST me. You have NOTHING to be ashamed of. You'd make the Mona Lisa jealous."
Kendra then walked outside with Dyson running circles around her excitedly. She noted how tense Bo looked and that fact that Maura was try to calm her.
Kendra had to deal with this first then Dyson.
It was Dyson that woke her. It looked like he needed to go away for a week. That was what she was able to conclude upon questioning him. Kendra had no right to keep him with her. She needed that time to stay here and tie up some loose ends before she left as well with him but that was even up in the air after Bo shared the premonitions.
Kendra walked up to both women and it looked like Maura surprised Bo in her undressed state but it was more. She said that Bo's secret was safe with her. Did Bo give away the existence of Fae kind to Maura?
"Hi Ladies," Kendra addressed both of them evenly to gauge what was going on.
Maura pleaded to Bo backing up, "PLEASE don' let your.. king or queen … erase mine or Jane's memory of our time here! It will UNDO what Jane and I just shared! Please! I need her WITH me."
Bo never threatened her with that, but for some reason Maura was well read.
Kendra knew that was a possibility for her too, but Dyson claimed her. That and she was needed for Ash business moving forward.
Bo ushered her over to the chair and sat her down. Maura was almost in tears.
"No Maura. Just take it easy. No one will erase your memory, but you need to give me your word that you will not reveal our kind to other humans, even Jane. EVER," Bo stroked her back.
Maura quickly agreed, "You have my word Bo. I will never speak or write about your kind."
Kendra then cut in with Dyson sitting proudly next to her, "Bo, can you charm her enough to suggest what you gave away never happened?"
Bo nodded, "Yes, but it's like Tamsin's power of doubt, it lasts for a specific period of time. Mine may last longer, but Maura will just come back to this point again and again. All the while, telling Jane what she suspects about us. I, or the Ash may end up doing exactly what Maura fears most, erasing all of Fae kind from her memory including Jane's but that would impact Jane and Maura's budding relationship."
Maura meekly nodded in agreement and mentioned to all, "Correct Bo." She knew herself and that is exactly what she would do. Losing Jane now wasn't an option. "I'd do anything to keep her. If you never want to see me or us again, I'm ok with that."
Kendra found Bo's plan sound and shrugged, "OK Maura, but once you know about Fae kind, it will be hard for you to be 'normal' again. In addition, you have to protect our existence with your life."
"I can … I will do that," Maura said confidently with a smile.
Dyson tilted his head like Kendra said something amiss.
Bo just smirked and repeated and teased, "OUR existence?"
Bo was right, she was human.
Kendra and Bo laughed and Dyson sneezed.
Maura didn't get it until Bo hugged her from behind and said, "Kendra is human just like you but is wed to Dyson which makes her one of us so to speak."
Maura looked confused. Did Bo mean the Dire Wolf?
Kendra just clarified, "Dyson is a shape shifter and he is stuck in this form temporarily"
"Oh," Maura chuckled knowing she was right after all.
Bo then asked taking off her blanket spreading it over the chair again, "Can I get a little more on my lower back please? …. Doctor."
Bo sat back down and Maura took her place behind her once more, "Oh by the way, you smell exactly like Lauren."
"Oh, while Lauren and I met yesterday, she gave me her topical lotion to try out which not only exfoliates dead epidermal cells, it also augments live cells with the core nutrients to give it more elasticity and hence a more youthful look," Maura glowed.
Kendra felt Dyson nudge her hand and gently take it in his mouth to guide her towards the woods.
Kendra just let him and finally once there she knelt down really depressed. Dyson was going to leave for a time. She had gotten so use to him being around now, even when they fought, the she knew she'd miss him.
She got all teary eyed and then the silent tears that followed were for her shifter, her lover, and former enemy, her everything.
Kendra as a defense against this pang of hurt in her heart asked, "Please tell me that this is because I didn't put out."
Dyson sneezed again and panted with a genuine smile. He knew exactly what she said but there was no way to deny his urges as a Dire Wolf and there was also no way he could tell her that he'd try find a way to help Kendra and if possible the whole gang out down the line.
Kendra then returned to a more serious topic said, "I feel like crap Dyson. I did this to you and now it seems that everyone is pulling me in every other direction EXCEPT the one I want to go. I want to be with you."
Dyson nodded solemnly. They both had to do what they needed to do. That was life.
Kendra wiped her tears away but confessed, "I feel like I'm CHEATING on you. Mia is a close friend and getting closer. I am…. " Kendra hated to be vulnerable but for Dyson she'd allow it. Now was no time to hold back. "Scared. I don't want to supplant her for you. My heart is all yours and I do love you and I know I can't have you both. Are you leaving me so that I'd end up with HER instead of you?"
No he shook his head quickly. Kendra was HIS. HIS life mate and no one else's.
Kendra was needy but at least Dyson had not signed her off but follow up timidly, "I might sleep with her and give her everything. Are you SURE you are ok with that?"
The end of the world was coming soon so Dyson just nodded. He and Kendra owed Mia their lives for saving them from the aswangs. Mia earned the right to be with his life mate in one way or another many times over. That was messed up but at the same time logical. The silver lining was that Kendra would have her needs met by someone with dire wolf council connections from a Fae stand point and from a physical stand point. Mia had no problem keeping Kendra safe and also deeply satisfied. He noted whenever Kendra crested for Mia without it being under the pretense of it being a show for him, he saw her also touch the stars the same way she did for him.
Those were moments of grandiose beauty. He could not, as much as it hurt him now, give that to Kendra in his present form but Mia could.
Dyson then licked her cheek to say it was ok.
Kendra understood why Dyson allowed it as well. Mia deserved to be happy. Also Kendra wanted Mia happy as well for hopefully make up for their troubled past.
"Come back to me in a week. PROMISE me," Kendra stammered with breathing became uneven. She never knew she needed Dyson that badly.
Dyson bowed then hugged Kendra once more before walking to the edge of the woods. He looked back at a heart wrenching moment with Kendra still kneeling and sobbing quietly. She was trying to be strong. She loved him and didn't want to face the possibility that he would not return for a long time. How could he reassure her?
It was then Dyson sat down to face Kendra in the distance, took a deep breath of air in to fill his lungs and then some then let out a long howl.
Kendra never saw Dyson do that before, but from what she read about shifters, when a wolf goes off on long campaigns, that was what they did before they left their mates. It was both a re-affirmation of their vow of love as well as a promise to return.
That gave Kendra just enough hope to let him go.
When Kendra got back Bo was still in heaven getting a massage, but Maura had shed her robe as well and was now in only her birthday suit.
"Just taking in the fresh air, also sun rise will be in 32.5 minutes. Might as well enjoy it," Maura mentioned giddily.
Bo looked like she just either had an orgasm or was having one of the best massages ever, Kendra causally observed.
"God doctor, you have strong fingers," Bo mentioned in lala land.
Maura playfully whispered back, "And THAT is why I outlasted Jane in bed."
Kendra had a lot to mull over so she rolled her eyes then politely excused herself. Right when she opened the glass door to go inside, she ran into Mia strolling slowly towards her with a fresh coffee mug in hand and reading her tablet intently with the other. She noted that Mia, although not in full gear still had on her slacks and sports top from the day before which only meant that she didn't sleep. Kendra and Mia always had a change of clothes in the truck.
Kendra walked towards her but it was Mia that snapped to attention since she was surprised that someone other than the security team was up and about.
"Kendra?" Mia was taken by surprise. "What are you doing up?"
"I could ask you the same and it appears as though you didn't sleep," Kendra replied.
Mia noted that although Kendra was her normal assertive self, something was off. It was as if Kendra was internally off balance.
"Are you OK Kendra?" Mia asked holstering her tablet to her belt.
"Yea," Kendra replied as if it was a dumb question.
"I was up because I was doing research on Maria's… well my identity," Mia answered carefully looking outside the glass pane of windows noting that Bo and Maura got up to change places. "Wow is it clothing optional to be outside?"
Kendra weakly chuckled.
Something was REALLY off with the way she laughed. She was preoccupied and something weighed heavy on Kendra and WHERE was Dyson.
Kendra then transitioned to a more serious topic at hand, "I need to talk to you before we meet with Jane and Maura in a few."
"Of course, but can we go into the kitchen, some of the staff is preparing breakfast and maybe we can get a bite to eat?" Mia offered gesturing behind her. She knew that Kendra would loosen up if her needs were being met. Food provided comfort and right now that is what Kendra looked like she needed.
They whisked into the kitchen, both getting something to eat which consisted more of continental breakfast items. Mia refilled her coffee and Kendra made hers strong.
Mia made sure they took a seat in a more informal setting on a comfortable couch and coffee table setup on the mezzanine level which had a full view of the lake through the large wall consisting almost entirely of glass. It was a great view but Bo and Maura had a better one. From this vantage point, if you looked carefully, you could see Maura every now and then nude getting a massage when she adjusted or leaned forward but the high back of their chair covered them for the most part.
Mia was getting better and better at getting past Kendra's walls so that they could just freely talk. Dyson was lucky, Kendra and Dyson just clicked and could talk about anything without beating around the bush.
Kendra started to eat silently but Mia knew not to ask about Dyson since it probably did have to do with him.
Mia finally mentioned gazing outside, "We can take our food outside but I think sipping hot coffee nude is a burn hazard."
Kendra laughed heartily. That was a good one. "Yes I can believe that. I left because I didn't want to get a physical."
"Huh?" Mia looked perplexed.
"Maura was probably massaging Bo with the same curiosity that she had with Dyson. Oh and Bo spilled the beans about all Fae kind already so the only one not in the know is Jane," Kendra relaxed in the couch more with Mia on the other side sipping coffee.
"Really? So now Maura gets to get up and personal with a succubus? A very powerful one? She had better not ask for a demonstration," Mia smiled and chuckled.
"Jane would get extremely jealous too," Kendra concluded.
"Oh they're an item?" Mia looked surprised.
"Yea apparently so. I suspect Bo had something to do with it. I was trying to get some rest with Dyson when I was woken up several times by them," Kendra held in a laugh then rolled her eyes.
Mia thought that expression was cute but replied with a little chuckle, "Yea same here but mine was Alex and Drake. Alex showed Drake the time of his life several times after Vex told us how Drake got his call sign of 'commander'. Apparently he is a hero and that Drake only wants her."
Mia then pouted in faux disappointment, "Awwww and that is how I found out that I was kicked off his black book."
Kendra laughed. She never saw Mia make that expression before and it was hilarious but adorable at the same time.
"It's ok," Kendra sipped her coffee with a huge smile still. "You are still probably wanted by like half the country."
Mia moped with the tiniest smirk to get Kendra's sympathy knowing full well that Kendra could see right through it.
Kendra pushed her shoulder playfully and teased, "Oh STOP it Mia. I bet he still thinks about you every now and then."
Mia realized that they were talking to each other like true friends. That was good. At least now she could get to the Kendra Dyson could see, even if it was an ephemeral glimpse.
Kendra briefly put business on hold. How could she not? She was having a great time with her best friend Mia. Liv's photo's of Kennie and Mia in the alternate universe had metadata describing the pictures and wow, they were a huge item in retrospect. That gave her enough to trust Mia in her life even more. Being in an unlabeled relationship did have its advantages.
Mia gave up the game and laughed pointing at her teasing, "Had you there for a moment though! Hey since we are kind of together, I need you to know that I may prance around nude every now and then when Alex is about. That by no means obligates you do to the same."
"Huh? Why so?" Kendra asked puzzled.
"Well, I told Alex I'd do what it took to keep their relationship together and Alex only had 1 special request from me. To see me naked." Mia began.
"I don't follow," Kendra furrowed her brows trying to find the angle.
"When Alex and Drake are between the sheets, she fulfills Drake fantasies by imagining situations and then having Drake read her mind," she slyly informed.
"Oh gosh," Kendra was getting it and her jaw went slack.
"Well Alex knows that Drake likes how I look for the most part and Alex will visualize me correctly when Drake reads her and … yea…. 3 some without me being there," Mia leaned forward and uttered in a secretive tone cupping a hand to the side of her mouth.
Kendra just chuckled. "OK. I'll remember not to lounge around our place nude when Alex is about. I don't want to be caught in an unintended 4 some in Alex's mind."
'OMG,' Kendra thought to herself and realized. 'Mia is flirting with me'. She had never seen her being this expressive before. What to do about it was another question.
Mia had finally got to see the real Kendra and finally asked her, "Now without sitting up, getting rigid, or domineering, be my BFF and just TALK to me. You had something you needed to say to me?"
This took Kendra totally by surprise. Normally she was in control and showed little weaknesses to Mia. In order to do that, she needed to keep conversations at least a little formal. She realized that Mia had done this small talk on purpose again but wasn't upset, but it was rather ingenious and cool that Mia knew her pretty well already.
Kendra exhaled playing with her mug, "What do you plan to do about the information that Jane and Maura dug up about you?"
Mia was about to reply when Tamsin and Jane came into view with just robes on and bare feet searching the halls.
Tamsin just mentioned, "Bo said she'd be outside getting some fresh air and knowing Maura, she's probably there too."
Kendra just spoke up craning her head to them, "Yea, you can see them from here sitting on the chair together. Oh it looks like Bo is giving Maura a massage now and the sun is about to rise."
All exchanged hellos. Tamsin and Jane ended up leaning against the railing that overlooked the level below and the bucolic lake view.
"Wow," Jane mentioned taking in the scene of Maura buck naked and it looked like Bo was too. "Is it clothing optional out there? It's beautiful by the way… I MEAN the lake."
"I think it's clothing optional at the very least," Kendra clarified.
"That is why we are inside," Mia smirked taking a nibble of her bagel.
Tamsin huff out a laugh and knew that Bo was Bo. She could charm anyone's clothes off and added coyly, "What did Maura do that necessitates a massage?"
The answer for Tamsin was when Jane's face turned a slight hue of rosy red.
"She must have slept in an odd position," Jane clarified trying to cover up the fact that they brought their friendship to a whole new level last night to put it mildly.
"Well, come on, let's join them," Tamsin dragged her along knowing she could be 'evil' to Jane too and Bo might actually like it.
'Bo. HANDS off Maura's crown jewels. Jane and I can see you and are on our way out,' Tamsin used the link.
'PURELY professional Tamtam. OK do we need to get dressed?'
This sounded like HER Tamsin so Bo was relieved that she was at least back to her normal self so quickly.
'No Jane already saw both of you apparently buck naked. Also we need to talk. CALM down, I'm fine with what just happened. But in the immediate term, do you want both of us to drop our robes when we get outside, my slutty goddess.'
Tamsin felt Bo's hunger spike.
'DOWN girl!'
'BAD BAD Valkyrie. Don't tempt me UNLESS you deliver,' Bo admonished.
'I ALWAYS deliver and WHO do you want? Jane or me? REMEMBER the link,' Tamsin stated sternly.
'I HATE you…. Both. I have no need to feed yet so no chi sucking.'
'That's my girl. Two bad ass naked detectives coming up.'
Bo learned forward and whispered to Maura who was also in la la land, "Jane is on her way here now with Tamsin. Want to see the sunrise with Jane in your arms maybe nude as well?"
Maura got rigid. She was naked and so was Bo.
Bo soothed, "RELAX. Pretend nothing is wrong and we will all see the sunrise sans our clothing. Don't scare Jane and Tamsin will do the rest."
"Oh ok. If you think it will work without your charm and pheromones," Maura replied hearing the door open.
"RELAX. Tamsin and I will take care for this," Bo comforted.
Tamsin and Jane finally stood next to them and Jane was first to speak.
"Hey Maura, there you are. I wondered where you had gotten off to," Jane put her hands in her pockets. She mused Maura had second thoughts about last night.
"Well, we were both giving each other massages since we were both a little tight. The best way to identify the affected muscle groups is to do it without clothing," Maura analytically mentioned.
"Join us to see the sunrise?" Bo asked being helped up by Tamsin and without a beat, Tamsin dropped her robe to the ground.
'Yummy,' Bo thought to her reflexively.
'Iiiiiiii knooooooooooooow. You've been bad Bo. A VERY VERY bad succubus at that BUT it was an accident not to mention I kind of enjoyed it.'
'Come sit with me on the other chair and I'll tell you how bad I've been. Spank me?' Bo offered over the link biting her index finger nail innocently.
Tamsin could not help but to get a little aroused by Bo's human wiles.
'BAD Valkyrie. I can feel you. Spank me now for later?'
'Ugggggg PLEASE. Let's not scare off Jane and Maura ok? Also…. I've been bad too. I accessed your diary so that one day I can dominate the crap out of you in bed if I needed to. Sorry I needed an edge and if having access is too personal then….'
'I know and I wouldn't have you any other way my devious angel. You did ask, and I just assumed. I want you to have all of me and if that is what you need, do your worst,' Bo retorted with a sly grin. 'Promise to be kind to your vulnerable and weak succubus with a propensity to have clothing challenges?'
Tamsin huffed out a laugh and led Bo over to long chair a couple places away from Jane and Maura and communicated, 'I swear I will a GOOD EVIL Valkyrie to you just like be agreed before. You just might have to deal with the fact that I am more powerful than you.'
'And that you are,' Bo replied feeding her ego
Bo took a seat and Tamsin slid in behind her. Bo then leant back on her and relaxed.
"Can we just enjoy the sunrise Tammy?" Bo asked without using the link to her extremely powerful Valkyrie.
"OK. I'd like that," Tamsin mentioned hugging Bo. She wasn't the sunrise type, but this was a little slice of bliss.
Maura stood up and pecked Jane on the lips.
At first Jane backed up a little, but Maura did it again and again slowly until Jane was ok with it.
"Here let me give you a massage," Maura stated sitting back in the long chair and having Jane sit down in front of her with robe on.
"Ummmmmm Maura? It's ok. I'm fine," Jane stammered out because she knew she'd have to be naked and she was more reserved.
"Jane, what goes on here STAYS here ok?" Maura mentioned again and worked Jane's shoulders opening up her robe a little.
Jane bit the bottom lip and just took it. Tamsin and Bo were just casually lounging near them without a care in the world and she figured she could do the same.
Mia and Kendra observed Tamsin and Jane leave and go out to the back and it was Mia that said, "It is a clothing restricted area after all."
Kendra chuckled, "No. Jane has her robe on. So it's still clothing optional. Besides she is probably a little uptight about her body."
"Like you?" Mia replied.
Kendra didn't even look at her but just replied, "I have my reasons."
"Which are? And please don't pull out the Mia Tate Syndrome card. I know you can't be that insecure all because of what I did," Mia asked.
Kendra felt a little uncomfortable and was about to put her walls back up until Mia reached over and held her hand and then said, "LLBFFs remember. LIFE LONG."
Kendra relaxed once more, "Like I told Dyson. There was no need for me to worry about what I looked like under my clothing since I was on a one way ticket to hell before. I needed to complete my mission at all costs. I took care of myself the best I could but from an outward appearance, things had to be sacrificed in order to avenge Eric my fiancé."
Mia smirked looking at Kendra up and down in her shorts and t-shirt.
Kendra glanced at her to gauge her.
Mia then spoke, "Those scars tell a story of how brave you are. I may have near flawless skin, but I'm jealous."
Kendra then observed that Jane finally peeled off her robe, "Oh shit. Now I'm jealous of Jane."
Mia turned just in time to see Jane stand up and adjust herself back in the chair with Maura, "Whoa she definitely has no reason to be timid, but you're body is a monument of what you have accomplished and that is what Dyson and I see."
Kendra blushed slightly and steered the conversation back in track. "So Maria Esposito, what's your next move? We need to see Jane and Maura in a few hours, fully clothed I hope."
Mia just plainly stated taking a sip of her coffee again, "I don't know. A part of me wants to see and at least thank Mario and Lucia Ricci for protecting me as long as they could, but in doing so, I would blow my cover. I also think it is unfair that Paddy gets to live like a king in a senior assisted living arrangement with more protection than the president in some cases."
Kendra wanted to probe a little deeper to see if she had plans for revenge like she did before, "Are you mad at Paddy?"
"Yes. He screwed me up in the head, he killed my entire family and relatives included. He terrorized the Ricci's and all the other families. He's a monster and the deeper and deeper I dig, the more I want to make him pay," Mia finally confessed upset. "I mean HE is responsible for keeping me from having happiness and long term relationships with the way he fucked me up in the foster care system."
Kendra just let her talk and already knew she was taking the same steps she did. It was only a matter of time before she acted on her thoughts of revenge.
Kendra finally spoke up and used Alex as an example, "Alex did it right. The Fire Sprites and Tree Elders conspired with one another to kill Alex's parents. Alex found that the best way to get back was to help forge a lasting peace. To throw peace in their face and force it upon the other clans is actually ingenious. Derrick and Erica just so happened to be the catalyst. The Burning Cypress Clan is only one clan that will allow Tree Elders and Fire Sprites to coexist, but peace will spread to the point where both warring clans have to make peace with one another eventually. She is stronger than I expected in that sense."
"I know I should take the higher road but I have nothing," Mia frowned.
Kendra thought about what Mia did have and then took a risk and said, "You already have a great life. You belong to a family already. Bo's. But more so …. you already belong here….. with me."
Mia smiled broadly and never thought about Kendra. She had the one person that was her enemy and worst critic in her corner now. She was so happy she hugged Kendra since she was totally speechless.
Kendra continued stoking her back, "Life Long BFFs?"
Mia laughed with joy, "Yea…. LLBFFs."
Kendra then pulled out her phone and then brought up the wedding picture of Kennie and Major Mia Tate.
"Here, look what Liv got me from the alternate universe," Kendra showed Mia.
Mia's jaw dropped to the ground in disbelief, "Oh… my god. We are MARRIED in that universe!"
"Yup. A testament to how special you are. Not that we can do that now, since each universe is slightly different, BUT it goes to show that we make a great team and that you belong with me," Kendra clarified with Mia cradling the phone and swiping through the pictures rapidly.
Kendra then pulled her phone playfully away and Mia pouted.
"All in due time Mia. I think Liv told me of a wardrobe malfunction you had on the beach with me and she got it captured in her pics somewhere," Kendra teased.
"Kendra," Mia growled. "I can OWN you and take that phone back from you with my BJJ skills."
"Yea, you can TRY, but good luck getting the dual factor unlock codes," Kendra smirked sinisterly.
"Ohhhhhh YOU are going on Santa's naughty list!" Mia scolded.
"Heh, I've been there every year, for some time now," Kendra held in a laugh. "What? Do you need that picture to get off or something?" Kendra teased.
Mia was speechless and Kendra then continued, "The REAL thing is a lot better."
Mia piped down and finally decided to ask why Kendra looked depressed earlier.
"So Cerberus, why were you moping around when I met you down stairs earlier," Mia changed tact.
Kendra looked down and replied, "I've gotten so use to Dyson being around, I miss him already. He had to I guess leave and be in the wild for a bit. He is a Dire Wolf. He'll be back in a week."
"You know he loves you and are still his life mate right?" Mia reassured.
"Yes, but I want to be a good life mate back to him. I need to rejoin him when I get done here," Kendra sighed.
"Then what do you need to do? Maybe I can help?" Mia offered perking up.
"Well first, what will you do about Maria Esposito?"
"I will stay Mia Tate. I have a family and a home and I am already sort of in witness protection already. Last thing I need is to lose you too," Mia said with confidence patting Kendra's hand.
"Good. I bet you Bo will make some sort of call to arms and mobilize everyone one to find Massimo. That means more drugs busts for you, the 69th and maybe the hundred and first. We need to have a solid plan if I were to go on sabbatical," Kendra thought methodically.
"I'll do my best," Mia smirked. "I also told my dad on a call last night about your help in finding out my birth parents and past."
"Oh really?" Kendra lifted a brow and observed Mia curiously. She didn't know if that was a good or bad thing.
Mia just chuckled waving Kendra's concern away, "Relax, he's happy for me. I did kind of have to broach the topic about you."
"OK. Did he say something like kill on sight?" Kendra teased.
"No. He was on the fence about me being in such close contact with you until I told him that I had you wrapped around my finger," Mia proudly made note.
Kendra rolled her eyes, "Yea right. It's the reverse."
"Well I DID tell him that we are friends but it was you that THREW yourself at me and gave me the benefits for free," Mia smirked.
"Mia! OH MY GOD," Kendra yelped covering her mouth in shock. This flew in direct conflict being Dyson's life mate and just gave Grizzal more ammo that she was using the Dire Wolves.
Kendra had no idea to respond until she observed an ever so slight coy smirk appear on Mia's face.
She was kidding and Kendra just pushed her playfully to which she just broke out in boisterous laughter.
"Oh Mia, don't play be like that. I'll get you back later you know that right?" Kendra threatened.
Mia just replied after she calmed down, "Yea, I kind of figured but really, I told my dad how you apologized for your mistakes in the past and I also told him how relentless you were in helping me find out about my past. He was a little shocked since he only knows you as the 'widow maker'. I guess what shocked him more was that I told him what good friends we turned out to be."
"That was probably a hard thing for him to take," Kendra looked outside once more.
Mia gazed outside as well and expounded, "Yes. I assured him you weren't using me, but in the end he wants me to be happy. He unfortunately now takes information about you from me with a grain of salt."
WAIT Kendra brooded, Mia was reporting on her? Kendra was thinking the worst but questioned, "You report about me?"
Mia immediately corrected, putting her hand on Kendra's, "Since Evony has give him indirect representation to the Dark Council, he is now a security advisor and needs to know what is happening on the ground. I tell him information on a need to know basis only. Our relationship isn't need to know. OK? I love you and would never do that to you."
Mia felt weird how easily she was able to say that.
Kendra accepted it and let it pass since she knew what type of love she meant. It was the same love that Dyson had for her. She couldn't return it but needed to talk about this.
"Mia, I don't want your love for me to be unrequited. I love you too but my heart belongs to Dyson. I am doing my best to be what you need and I'm sorry if I give you signals otherwise," Kendra exhaled turning to Mia.
"I know Kendra. Now that I know the truth about my past, I think I may finally be able to have healthy relationships again. I know I will find another but is it ok if we keep our current status?" Mia asked searching Kendra's eyes.
Mia grinned broadly.
"What?" Kendra asked in puzzled backing up slightly.
"You said 'yes'," Mia purred.
"I said no such thing. I was thinking about it," Kendra defended teasing her.
"You're eyes told me so," Mia smirked proudly.
"You know me too well Mia. You're gonna get Dyson jealous," Kendra confessed closing the distance and putting an arm around her then continued changing topics.
"Thank you Mia for cleaning up my shit when you really didn't have to," Kendra smiled back.
"No Kendra. I am eternally grateful for you in helping me find the truth about my past. You gave me something I can't ever repay….. so thank you," Mia emphatically mentioned kissing Kendra on the lips.
Mia broke the kiss quickly realizing she may have stepped over the line but Kendra kissed her back and said, "An undefined relationship is soooo much better."
"So true," Mia snuggled up to Kendra. "Can you stay and watch the sunrise with me."
"Yea," Kendra relaxed. At least Mia would no longer go on the same war path she did.
Maura and Jane both relaxed into one another slowly becoming one without a word. They watched the sunrise and it was beautiful.
Jane murmured, "Care to spend more time at my place?"
Maura knew where Jane was coming from. "You know your mom has keys to your place too."
Jane then joked, "How about the No Tell Motel?"
Maura in all seriousness mentioned, "Oh god no Jane. Hotels like that are notorious for bed bug infestations."
Jane just soothed and turned around so that they were facing one another then hugged her mentioning, "That's my Maura."
Maura felt her cheeks get red hot and just got that Jane was being sarcastic.
"I guess we can lock our respective bedroom doors if you worry about Angela," Maura thought.
"And how are we going to sound proof it?" Jane replied wittily.
"I think your mom is fine with us Jane," Maura analyzed. "I believe she knows how I feel about you and how you feel about me. Deep down that is. She's not obtuse."
"Or she's just plain nosey. And really Maura? My mom wants to make an 'honest woman' out of me. She's traditional," Jane whined.
"And didn't I just make you an 'honest woman' after you confessed your true feelings to me?" Jane snipped back somewhat rhetorically.
"Yea, that's a way to put it."
"Can we let her know? You know if she is in our court, she may help keep our cover."
"I… I guess. I'll talk to her when I get back. She deserves to hear it from me," Jane concluded.
"I'm always here if you need me Jane. You're not alone," Maura stoked her cheek.
Jane smiled and pecked Maura on the lips without hesitation, "Thanks."
Maura admired Jane that she was brave enough to tell her mom. At least that was one less person to keep the truth from.
Bo and Tamsin watched that sunrise in silence enfolded in each other's arms. They didn't say a single word and didn't use the link either.
They were one and were so attune to one another now that words actually hindered them.
They let Jane and Maura work things out while they cuddled and rubbed their noses together occasionally.
Bo thanked her lucky stars that Tamsin wasn't mad at the 'pheromone mishap'.
Tamsin thanked her lucky stars that Bo wasn't at all pissed at her having access to her diary.
Bo thought it was sweet that Jane was brave enough see a flowering relationship and not cave into societal norms.
Bo just enjoyed the scene for a time and finally found that the all powerful Tamsin dozed off. She was human and needed to sleep after all. She was so beautiful and peaceful.
Bo just took Tamsin's robe and draped it over them to enjoy the morning.
Maura and Jane finally took their leave to get ready for the day.
Kendra found that because Mia didn't get any rest, fell quickly asleep in her arms.
For Kendra she still had a big problem and just sat there and mused.
She was no longer on a mission to kill shifters any more but she still did have a little distrust for them in general besides Dyson and Mia.
This fact flew in the face of several things.
She killed shifters before as retribution for killing Eric and her brother and it was wrong of her to do that in the manner she did. She just went overboard and became the monster she didn't ever want to become. I took a good slap in the face from her own team member for her to realize that during the raid. Then it took Dyson's unconditional love to bring her back.
Dyson never gave up on her, Kendra mused. He knew all along the real Kendra was there buried under all that pain and baggage.
She also felt guilty in marring what Eric saw in her. Sure, he was no longer alive, but still, Eric believed in her too.
Now in a twist of fate, Kendra was alive and happy once more and not just living from day to day but her new life came as a direct result of intervention and support of Dyson and now to an extent Mia.
They were BOTH shifters or related to one and her sworn enemy.
Mia may be human but in order to have that pendant from her god father Grizzal, she must have been like blood to him and hence part of the shifter family as well.
Grizzal she could tell still hated her guts and was only doing things out of obligation to Dyson.
Keep your friends close but keep your enemies closer.
So what was Mia?
She was now holding onto Mia who was family, a lover, a friend, and enemy due to her ties to Grizzal but at the same time neither of any of those.
At least Dyson fell in less categories, as an enemy for a time, a good friend, and lover but now that she was his life mate, she was just his lover.
Kendra knew if Mia got a call from Grizzal to kill her, she would. Mia's life was his after all.
By the same token, Mia loved her with the same type of love Dyson gave her. So that also meant that even if that call did come in, LOVE counted for something.
The biggest sting for Grizzal was about to come to fruition. Not only did Mia not tell her father about their undefined relationship status which was damn close to being a couple, Mia would put her life down for her.
Had this been all about revenge, it would have been fitting, but not now. Kendra deep down cared about Mia and didn't want her to leave her life either.
Liv's pictures only help confirm that they did belong in each other lives.
Kendra wouldn't know how to face Grizzal about Mia's and Dyson's death as per the premonitions and lucky for her she was dead along with Mia and Dyson.
But what if she had that chance? What would she say?
Nothing? Would that be better than a note from her?
If she did write that note, what would she say?
Mia shifted in her arms and Kendra was about to wake her and lead her to bed, but who cared? They were the best of friends and were fully clothed.
Kendra pulled out her cell phone and began to type away after Jane and Maura passed them on the way to their room.
Mia saved the draft message to complete later and would have to set it to auto send when her network account at the precinct was removed or deleted.
She hoped the meeting with Jane and Maura was more towards noon closing her heavy eye lids to get a light nap as well.
One final thought came to Kendra's mind before she drifted into a cat nap with Mia in her arms.
LLBFFs or *LLBFFs*?
Did it matter? They were in an unlabeled relationship and Dyson was her life mate. His soul seared his name into Kendra's heart so therefore she was all his, but at the same time Mia did have a place in Kendra's heart.