Chapter 12

When the morning light shone through the window Stella climbed out of the bed, headed to the kitchen and started coffee. Then grabbing down the oatmeal she boiled the water, sprinkled it in and added the raisins.

Placing it on the tray with fresh fruit and the coffee she walked back into the room.

"Mac...come on Mac. It's another work day for us. Wake up."

Placing down the tray, she leaned in to shake him and that's when he grabbed her tossing her under him.

"Mmm..good morning Miss Stella. I'm not sure what would taste better right now. You, the oatmeal or my coffee." he winked.

"Ahh...I feel so shunned. Pushed aside for a couple raisins and coffee."

"Never Stella. I'd rather have you."

Lowering his head he traced his lips around hers, listenting to her sighs as he sensually kissed her, drugging her in his warmth. Lifting himself up off her, he reached for the coffee.

"Mmm..that's wonderful. Thanks love."

Reaching for the bowl of oatmeal he took a spoonful into his mouth. Then scooping up more, he placed the spoon to Stella's lips as she took it into her mouth.

"Wow...that's actual beats a muffin. I never realized how wonderful oatmeal was with raisins."

Smiling, he grabbed a strawberry and traced it along her lips. Teasing her with it as she went to bite, and he'd pull it away. Laughing like a couple kids in love she got up from the bed and headed to the shower.

"Aww...where you going Stel. I was having fun."

"It's seven in the morning Taylor. I have to be at work by eight. We wouldn't want the boss to dock my pay would we?" She laughed as she shut the door.

Smirking from her antics, he finished his oatmeal and coffee. Taking the tray to the kitchen he did up the dishes, and waited for her to come out.

"Okay Mac. It's all yours."

Walking by her wrapped with the towel in her hair he kissed her lips. Once they were both dressed they headed out. When they arrived at the lab they agreed to meet for lunch before parting ways.

"Morning Mac. How was your night?"

"It was good Don. Any new cases I should know about?"

"Nah. It's been quiet all night. I'm just headed out for coffee. Can I grab you one?"

"No. I just finished two cups, but thanks."

"Okay. See ya in a bit."

"Hey Don."

"Hi Stel. You look well rested," he winked.

Touching his cheek she whispered back....

"I am. See ya."

Oh yeah. Don could tell they were in love. Never had he seen the two of them so relaxed. He had to admit he liked it. Walking out the building he ran into Danny.

"Mornin Don. Is Mac here yet?"

"Yeah. He's in his office. I'm going for coffee, want one?"

"Thanks man. That would be great."

As Danny walked by the breakroom he seen Stella laughing with Sheldon.

"Mornin Mac. You have a minute?"

"Sure Danny. What is it?"

"Why didn't you tell me you were sending Montana back to Montana. Why did I have to find out from this?"

Passing the letter over to Mac he opened it.

"Dear Danny, We'd like to thank you for always being there for our Lindsay. There wasn't a day she didn't speak of you or her CSI family. We are very sorry you were unable to make the trip with our daughter. Please take care of yourself and the others. Sincerely Mr&Mrs. Monroe."

"Danny it's not what you think. I had planned on sending you. But you were to emotional to make the trip. If you hadn't of been injured or on pain medication I would have sent you. Though due to your condition added to your pain of losing Lindsay I changed my mind."

"But Mac. This should have been my choice. My choice. How can you not understand that?"

"I do understand Danny. More then you know. Like said it was my decision not to send you. I stand by it. I'm sorry if that bothers you. If you still feel that strongly about seeing her family then I will give you leave of absence."

Danny sighed. Deep down Mac was right. He really didn't know her family. Plus he had taken quite a hit. He still had headaches he didn't tell Mac about.

"Nah. It's okay Mac. I think I understand. I'll see you later."

"Danny?"

"Yeah Mac?"

"How are you feeling otherwise? You still having headaches?"

Knowing Mac wouldn't let him work he said...

"Nah. They've disappeared Mac. I'm good as new."

Nodding his agreement, Danny left his office.

tbc.....