Title: Essence Vitae

Disclaimer: We do not own Law and Order: Criminal Intent, Dick Wolf and NBC-USA do. New York Giants is a part of the NFL is owned by the Mara family and the Washington Seahawks is owned by Paul Allen.

Author's Note: Coffee shop mentioned in this story is Brick City Coffee Company located in Newark, NJ.

Genre: Romance/Family

Rating: T

Chapter 2: First Date and Relationship

Coach McCroy knew it was love at first sight when he saw the two of them gazing at each other.

"Um... I'll leave the two of you alone."

Rory walked away silently laughing how they were still staring at each other.

"Um... uh... why don't I go and clean up, then I can treat you to coffee," said Bobby nervously.

"That sounds great," replied Alex also nervous.

She usually didn't get this way around guys but this one was different.

Fifteen minutes later they were off.

When they arrived in his sporty Mustang at the best coffee shop he knew of, Brick City Coffee Company.

While there, they hit off instantly talking about everything under the sun. Alex found out that Bobby was orphaned at a young age and was raised by a strict but loving aunt and had attended college out of state on a football scholarship. Bobby learned that Alex is the daughter and only child of the Deputy Commissioner as her mother died giving birth to her stillborn sister. She also confided in him on how she seeks to please her father in whatever possible way. Bobby empathized with her for his Aunt Miriam was very much like her dad.

After spending most of the afternoon together, and also treating her to dinner, he dropped her off at her apartment.

"Well I had a great time today," said Alex who was feeling like a giddy school girl who had finally gone out with the most popular boy.

"I had a great time too," said Bobby who was just as nervous and then added, "It'd be great if we could meet again... if that's possible."

"Sure, sure. Let me give you my number," said Alex finding a piece of paper and jotting down her number excitedly upon hearing his interest in her.

The moment she gave it to him she said with a wink, "I will be waiting handsome."

They had gone on only a few dates and everything was going well.

Sometime later on, Alex, her dad and Rory were having lunch together

"Alex aren't you seeing uh..." began John and Alex filled in the gap.

"Bobby Goren."

"Isn't he a bit…"

Rory chimed in, "John don't worry; Bobby may seem like a bad boy type but his heart is pure gold. I can guarantee it."

"Yeah dad... You're soon gonna meet him actually."

John wanted to say something else but decided to drop it. However, he was worried; he didn't want Alex to get hurt, like most dads are.

After being in a relationship for a month, Bobby and Alex felt they were ready to take it to the next level.

After getting back from the precinct following a long night shift, Alex just wanted to shower away the stresses and sleep as much as she could.

However, Bobby left an envelop at her doorway. She quickly got into the apartment which she shared with a fellow Chelsea beat cop, Shaylah Gline.

Plopping down on the couch, tired, she proceeded to open the envelope.

Inside it was a simple note.

My dearest Lexy,

I was wondering if you would like to spend a relaxing night with me sometime.

Give me a call as I await your answer.

Love,

Bobby Goren

A/N 2: Thanks your for reading chapter 2 of "Essence Vitae". More to come! Reviews are appreciated!