Chapter 22
Monday February 6th, 2006
12:30 p.m.
Outside the San Francisco County Courthouse
After Sara had retrieved Sahidi from James, he had helped her go outside and find a bench to stay on while the others were still in court, before moving a short distance away to give her some privacy that she obviously needed. During the twenty minutes that she spent outside, Sara mentally tried to work off the steam she had gathered after learning what Stevens had pulled with Jessica, and in turn over what he had asked of her. The damn man had brought up things she never intended her family or anyone else to know, only Gil knew those things, and even telling him was hard enough on her.
So caught up was she in her thoughts, she never even noticed the four people making their way towards her and James from the courthouse, until her mom called.
Glancing up she shook her head imperceptibly before turning towards them with a smile that she quite honestly pasted on her face, she only hoped they wouldn't be able to tell the difference.
"How are you doing?" Laura asked concerned as they joined her.
"I'm okay," she shrugged in response. "What about you? I can only imagine now what he put all of you through...and I'm sorry Jyn."
"There was nothing you could do Sara," replied Jessica quietly from her position slightly behind and to the side of the rest of the family.
"Yeah, well if it weren't for me and my past, he never would have had a reason to even go there," Sara replied with a humorless laugh before rising. "Come on, let's get out of here. I'm assuming that the trial's in recess."
"Till nine," Jack answered softly.
Sara nodded as she reached down to take Sahidi's lead and unfold her cane. "Well I don't know about you guys, but I could kill for a veggie burger right now," she continued with a smile.
Jack and Chris watched Sara and the other women go for a moment before glancing at each other in concern. "She's not handling this well," Chris spoke softly.
"Handling what well? The fact that her life completely sucks and things she kept buried for twenty years are becoming common knowledge? Or the fact that that asshole used everything he did against us?" Jack countered shaking his head. "Wish I could help her, but something tells me that none of us can little boy."
"Same here Jack," Chris agreed softly before they followed after the rest of their 'family'.
Tuesday February 7th, 2006
9:05 a.m.
San Francisco County Courthouse
Andrew Stevens slowly rose and made his way over to the jury box.
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the jury, it's no secret that the Birchwood Rapist terrorized our city so long ago. He was a truly evil man. But the question I pose to you is this? Is John Harwood really the Birchwood Rapist? Or is he a man who was the innocent victim of revenge? You've heard from those who worked the cases of the Birchwood Rapist, friends of John's niece, Sara Sidle, the same niece that at one time John was involved in a love affair with. I'm the first to admit, the very idea of what my client did with his niece turns my stomach. But Ms. Sidle herself testified that she welcomed the advances, she never told someone what was happening. To me, that does not seem the actions of a person who does not desire the relationship with their lover...And then he left her...You heard testimony as well, about the type of relationship that can be formed in relationships such as that of my client and his niece. The anger and revenge the scorned lover seeks. And you also learned about another lover of Ms. Sidle's, one she was investigated for in the death of. Your job is to convict beyond a shadow of a doubt. But if you even suspect a doubt, then you have to let my client go. How hard might it have been for my client to have been framed for these horrible crimes. A simple change of evidence, or a simple point in another direction. Don't let one woman's anger destroy an innocent man's life."
Having finished Stevens turned and made his way back to his desk, retaking his seat.
"Your Honor, Ladies and Gentlemen of the jury," Tanya began as she rose from the Prosecutor's table and walked towards the jury box. "John Harwood is a very sick man, and he is the one on trial here today. Not Sara Sidle, not Jessica Harrison but John Harwood; a man who used the Bible as a means to justify not only the molestation of his niece but also her continued rape by him. Miss Sidle did admit to what the Defense calls 'welcoming Mr. Harwood's advances' but what child that has grown up being continually molested would come to expect things to be any different. Miss Sidle tragically fell into the trap that claims so many victims of sexual abuse and rape. The fear that she will not be believed and that the one she accuses will retaliate in a way that is unknown to them. Miss Sidle did manage to finally break free of Mr. Harwood's hold over her when she was accepted to Harvard, something Mr. Harwood did not approve of, leading to his eventual eviction from the Sidle home, losing the one thing he believed in his own disillusioned way, belonged to him: Miss Sidle herself. Miss Sidle built a new life for herself while attending Harvard before returning to California to work in the coroner's office and eventually the Crime Lab. Little did Miss Sidle know that she was being stalked by a monster from her past. Then the Birchwood Rapist struck; the case we are here to decide upon. It was not known at the time that the monster that brutally raped and murdered thirty innocent women was the same monster that had terrorized Miss Sidle as a child. It was not until six years after the Birchwood rapes that Mr. Harwood would be identified as the one responsible, so to accuse not only Miss Sidle, but Miss Harrison and the entire San Francisco Crime Lab of doctoring evidence to make it point at John Harwood is simply absurd."
"Mr. Stevens has tried to make his case by dragging the name of good, decent hard-working people through the mud. Yes Miss Harrison has the wealth and power that many of us crave and yes, she can get many things done with a simple phone call, everyone has seen this in the events surrounding her co-workers in Las Vegas but to accuse someone of her standing of tampering with evidence is ludicrous. Miss Harrison was but a child when the defendant was harming her friend, what could a child of her age do? A child that does not possess the influence that Miss Harrison now does. Miss Harrison has spent most of her life out of the spotlight, working as a criminalist with the San Francisco Crime Lab putting monsters like John Harwood in prison. The fact that Mr. Stevens would even think of questioning the ethics and morals of one of San Francisco's top criminalists is not only insulting it's disgraceful. Miss Harrison is not the one on trial here and neither is Miss Sidle. Mr. Stevens is correct about one thing and that is that you must convict beyond a shadow of a doubt and all of you know that the prosecution has done just that. We have proven to you beyond a shadow of a doubt that John Harwood is the Birchwood Rapist and we did it in such a way that the evidence is unquestionable and speaks for itself. Mr. Harwood sits before you today, finally being brought to justice thanks to the hard work of Miss Harrison and the members of both the San Francisco and Las Vegas Crime Labs. These people are the reason Miss Sidle is still with us today. They are the ones responsible for saving Miss Sidle's life on more than one occasion when it was being threatened by Mr. Harwood. I would like all of you to seriously consider one question when you are deciding on the outcome of this trial. Would you want a monster like John Harwood preying on your wife, your daughter, your niece? Pronounce John Harwood guilty of the crimes for which he stands accused and take this predator off your streets. Thank you," Tanya finished before returning to her seat from where she had been walking back and forth in front of the jury.
Tuesday February 7th, 2006
12:45 p.m.
San Francisco Shopping Center
"God, I love Cinnabun," Sara sighed as they sat down at a table in the small restaurant. "Can you pass the extra butter icing?" she continued looking up at Jessica across from her. The two had ditched the rest of the Sidle family for a few hours, Sara asking Jessica for help shopping for something. The 'something' having yet to be revealed.
"Here," Jessica replied handing the icing over. "And you say that every time."
"Well it's true. It is my firm belief that no one has as good of a cinnamon bun as the person who invented this store. A genius if you ask me."
"I'll have to remind Gil to make sure to keep stocked up on cinnamon buns then," mused Jessica with a small smile as she started on her fries.
"Ah Cinnabuns," Sara corrected with a wink. "So, you're probably wondering what the hell is so important that I dragged you to the mall for."
"The thought had crossed my mind you know," Jessica replied with a hint of sarcasm.
"Well, obviously not a news flash here, but sight is sort of a lack of an option in my life," Sara began.
"Well somebody's feeling better I see. And what does not having sight have to do with this mysterious purchase of yours?"
"Quite so," Sara agreed with another smile, "but I need to get something specific for Valentine's for Gil. And I need a woman's point of view on the options so I know what to pick."
"Okay, now you've got me curious, so spill," Jessica told her.
"I need a tasteful piece of lingerie," Sara replied softly.
"Sara are you sure I'm the one you want to help you? I mean Catherine would probably be a better choice…"
"Jyn, you're my best friend. You know me better than anyone; we have similar taste in clothing. And besides, can you see me actually making that statement to Cath? It's sort of hard enough to make said statement to you, I never thought I'd see the day I would go buy lingerie, let alone go buy it for Gil or be unable to actually see what it is I might be wearing...and I'm probably starting to get looks from people at other tables aren't I?" Sara trailed off shaking her head.
"No one's looking at you Sara," Jessica told her quietly. "Sara…if you're sure, then of course I'll help you I just don't know how much help I'll actually be."
"Well that's good," Sara laughed. "And Jyn, you can describe what the heck we're looking at for me, and I have at least a small idea of what I'm looking for. I mean I'm definitely going to Victoria Secret as compared to Fredrick's of Hollywood, the latter obviously being just not me. So yeah…" she shrugged.
"Then let's go," Jessica said standing up and throwing out their garbage before returning to Sara's side.
"Okay then. You know, I'm kinda surprised you haven't declared me nuts, considering we both know my sleeping attire preference, and all," Sara mused as they walked.
"Who says I won't, oh pajama girl," replied Jessica.
"Ah, well good to know some things don't change," Sara teased back.
"Well here we are," Jessica said as they stopped in front of the store.
"Welcome to Victoria Secret," one of the saleswomen spoke up as they entered. "Is there anything I can help you with?"
"Actually..." Jessica trailed off looking at the girl's nametag, "Tiffani, my friend here would like some help finding the perfect gift for her guy. Something along the lines of a negligee I think?" Jessica asked turning to Sara.
"Umm, yeah," Sara agreed quickly.
"Can you help us?" Jessica asked the sales girl.
"Of course," Tiffani smiled. "Do you have any idea what you are looking for?"
"Something tasteful," Sara spoke up quickly. "Not too short, in all honesty I'm more of a pajama girl."
Tiffani smiled. "I think I have a few ideas, what size are you?"
"Six," Sara replied.
"That's what I thought, but I asked just in case," Tiffani smiled as she walked away from them to select a few options before returning.
"Any that you like Jyn?" Sara asked softly.
"Try this one," Jessica said taking a coral colored one from Tiffani and handing it to Sara before leading her into the dressing room, where she left her in peace.
A few minutes later Sara came back out, negligee in hand as she glanced around for sounds of Jess or Sahidi.
"Right here Sara," Jessica said from just off to her right.
"So what is the coloring like?" Sara asked with a smile as she joined them and took Sahidi's lead back.
"The body is coral and the lace is a blush color," Jessica said leading Sara towards the cashier.
"Excuse me ma'am," Tiffani called getting their attention. "I wasn't sure if you were interested, but there is a matching robe as well," she continued when she joined them."
"Oh, thank you," Sara smiled. "I'll definitely take it too then."
"I had a feeling you might," Tiffani smiled as she produced the robe. "I can check you out if you're ready then."
"Thanks," Sara smiled before she and Jessica followed Tiffani to the counter and a few minutes later found the two women on their way back down the hallway. "So love, what shall we do now?" Sara asked glancing at her companion
"I don't have anything particular in mind," Jessica shrugged.
"I see," Sara nodded. "Well, is there anything you'd like to do in particular this week while we're waiting for the jury to come back?"
"Well, actually..." Jessica trailed off not quite sure how to say it.
"Nick coming to visit?" Sara asked with a smile taking a guess that might be what Jessica wasn't wanting to say.
"For a few days starting on Friday but I'm leaving San Francisco before then."
"Oh?" Sara asked. "Going to spend some time at Heavens Paradise then?" she continued with a nod.
"I'm leaving right after I get you back to your parents at the hotel," Jessica said quietly. "I need..." she trailed off.
"Jyn girl, don't worry about it," Sara squeezed her hand once. "Stevens threw us all for a loop, get out of here and spend some time with Nicky. I'll call you as soon as we hear anything about the jury."
"Thanks Sara," replied Jessica. "Would you mind if I took you back to the hotel then?"
"Of course not, but can we make a quick stop at Cinnabun to get me supplies?" she asked with a grin. "It's on the way after all."
"Of course," agreed Jessica with a smile.
"Have a good trip okay? And call just to let me know you made it okay," Sara smiled as she gave Jessica a quick hug once they were back at the hotel.
"I will," agreed Jessica as she got back in the driver's seat, pulling away from the hotel on her way home for a break from everything that had been going on.
Saturday, February 11, 2006
11:30am
Heaven's Paradise
"Oh Mr. Nicholas, it is so good to see you," Elsie greeted when Nick walked through the front door.
"Hey Elsie," returned Nick giving the woman a kiss on the cheek. "Is everything alright?" he asked in concern when he pulled back and noticed a worried look in Elsie's eyes.
"It's Miss Jessica, Mr. Nicholas."
"What happened? Is she all right? Elsie where is she?" Nick demanded worriedly.
"She is in her room Mr. Nicholas. She has been there since she returned Tuesday evening. She hasn't spoken to anyone and she barely eats. She just sits in her window pretending to read," Elsie explained, clearly upset now.
"Elsie, look at me," instructed Nick, getting the housekeeper to turn her attention towards him. "What do you mean she's not eating and how do you know she's just pretending to read?"
"Whenever I collect her meal tray very little of the food has been touched and every time I go into her room, she is on the same page as hours earlier. I don't even think she realizes that I come and go since she never turns her attention from the window. Maybe you can reach her Mr. Nicholas. Here," Elsie said turning and picking up a tray she had put down when Nick had first entered, handing it to him. "Perhaps she might eat something if youask her."
"I'll see what I can do Elsie," Nick said before heading up the main staircase and into the east wing towards Jessica's suite of rooms. When Nick entered he found Jessica right where Elsie said she would be. She was sitting in the window that held a bay window, a magazine in her lap but her head resting up against the window itself. Nick made his way into the room, putting the tray down on the table near the window before turning and just watching Jessica for a moment. She was sitting wrapped in a blanket, over what appeared to be her silk pajamas, her gaze out the window but her eyes seemingly unfocused. "Jess?" he called softly as he sat down on the window seat facing her, touching her cheek gently as he brushed some hair behind her ear. "Baby, it's Nick."
"Nick?" Jessica asked quietly turning towards him.
"Baby, is everything alright?" Nick asked in concern when he saw an emptiness in Jessica's eyes he'd never seen before. "Elsie told me you've been in here since Tuesday evening. Did something happen since we last talked?"
"I just needed some time to think is all," replied Jessica her voice quiet with a hint of sadness mixed in as she looked out the window briefly before turning her gaze back to Nick. "He was right you know."
"Jess, Sara and I both told you that..."
"Not about that Nick," Jessica said interrupting him. "I believe you when you say that there was never anything more between the two of you than friendship."
"Then what Baby? What was Stevens right about?"
"That I would do whatever it takes to protect the ones I perceive as family. I've already done it for the country to see. I latched onto the first real family I found and I haven't let go."
"Baby, what's wrong with that?" asked Nick curiously not really sure what Jessica was getting at and not certain how he could help her.
"Because it's not my family Nick, it's Sara's," argued Jessica. "I spent more time at the Sidle Bed and Breakfast then I did here at my own home with my guardians. I forced my way into Sara's family and I didn't have that right. It's her family not mine. I have no family..." Jessica trailed off as tears started falling down her cheeks, which Nick brushed away lightly before pulling Jessica into his arms as he leant back against the alcove wall.
"Shh," Nick soothed as he let Jessica cry. "You do have a family Jess. A bigger one than you might realize. You have so many people who care about you, but most importantly you have me. Let me be your family Jess," Nick said holding her tight. "Would you do something for me?"
"What?" a muffled sniffle from his chest asked.
"Have something to eat? At least have a few of the fresh strawberries or else Elsie will beat me to within an inch of my life for not getting you to eat something," Nick pleaded lightly causing Jessica to let out a small watery laugh.
"Alright," she agreed sitting up allowing Nick to get the tray and set it down on the seat in front of them before returning to his spot against the alcove wall, settling Jessica between his legs, pulling her close against his chest as she settled into the strawberries.
Monday February 13th, 2006
1:35 p.m.
San Francisco County Courthouse
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the Jury, have you reached a verdict?" Judge Douglas asked as the forewoman rose.
"We have, your Honor."
Just as the jury foreman rose, Jessica quietly entered the courtroom, taking a seat at the back with the rest of the team from the San Francisco Crime Lab.
"Mr. Harwood, would you and your attorney please rise," Douglas continued to the two before turning back to the forewoman. "Madame Forewoman?"
"We the jury find the defendant, John Harwood, guilty on all charges," the forewoman responded.
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the jury, you are excused with the court's thanks. Bailiff, please take the defendant into custody until sentencing," Douglas spoke before pounding his gravel, thus ending the trial.
"Congratulations Tanya," Sara spoke as they rose and John was led from the courtroom.
"Thank you, but the real credit goes to all of you at the Crime Labs. And to you especially Sara," she continued softly.
"That may be true Tanya, but I could have put my suspicions forward earlier," Sara answered softly before turning to Chris. "I need to go get Sahidi, would you take me?"
"Of course Sunshine," Chris smiled before glancing to the back of the room to find Jessica glancing towards them before turning back to the other members of the San Francisco Crime Lab.
"Good work Jess," congratulated MacWhittier. "You've finally put Birchwood to rest."
"Thanks Mac," replied Jessica quietly, turning her attention to her former supervisor.
"Celebratory lunch on me for all my CSIs, you and Sara included," Mac said.
"Thanks Mac, I think I'll take you up on that offer but I think Sara would rather spend this time with her family," replied Jessica a hint of sadness entering her voice as she turned to join him and the others.
"Are you sure you wouldn't prefer to stay and celebrate with them? I mean they are your family," Mac questioned in concern.
"No Mac, they're not. They're Sara's family," Jessica said taking his arm. "I've intruded in their life long enough."
"If you're sure Jess."
"I'm sure Mac. Besides we better get Michael and Peter here fed before they start complaining too loudly. We wouldn't want to get stopped for disturbing the peace now would we," Jessica teased trying to get the attention off of her and them out of the courtroom.
"You heard the woman Mac. Feed us," Peter laughed as he opened the door allowing Mac to lead Jessica from the room, he and Michael falling into step behind them. "So Jess, tell us about your Texan..." Michael's voice trailed off as the door swung shut behind them.
Monday February 13th, 2006
7:15 p.m.
Best Western Canterbury Hotel
Harrison-Sidle Suite
"Hello Duchess," Chris greeted when Jessica walked into the hotel room.
Jessica stopped in her tracks, paling slightly, after Chris' greeting, which was the last thing she had expected when she'd come to pick Sara up so that they could return to Vegas.
"Hi Love," Laura smiled. "We wanted to say goodbye to both of you so we stuck around," she explained as she rose from her chair.
"How was your day?" Sara asked as she came out of the back room.
"It...it was fine," Jessica stuttered. "Got pulled into a case, they…they needed a…a ballistics expert."
"Oh cool, so how was it working with the old team?" Sara smiled.
"Like I never left actually," Jessica replied quietly.
"That's good," Jack smiled.
"We know you two have to get out of here, but Jack and I have something we want to show you first Jessie girl," Laura spoke up with a smile
"Oh?"
"Mm hmm," Laura continued before nodding towards a midnight blue, fabric covered box on the table.
Jessica walked tentative towards the table that held the box, giving the others a nervous glance on her way by. When she reached the table, Jessica carefully removed the ribbon causing the fabric to fall away from the object, revealing a mahogany shadow box. "It's beautiful," she smiled softly as she looked at the intricately carved box. There were flowers and roses around the sides, and small musical notes and roses around the edge of the glass. Pausing to glance at the bottom of the glass she read the etched writing.
No one is ever born into Life alone. Everyone has shared the bond of family, at least at birth, and for many people it is a bond that will follow them throughout life. For many people it is the most important bond of all.
Glancing over at the family, Jessica turned back to look inside the shadow box that lit up suddenly, looking up she saw Jack smiling as he held up a cord, obviously having just turned the light on. Turning her attention back to the box she saw six figurines inside against a familiar scene from the Disney movie Fantasia, from the scene that featured Symphony No. 6. In the center of the box was a small figurine of the Gazebo from that same act, standing about four-and-a-half inches high. To it's right was a beautiful sculpture of Diana:GoddessoftheHunt from the movie, and slightly to the left of Diana and coming around the front of the gazebo were two figurines, two of the Centaurettes. One, the Pink Centaurette, the other the Blue. On the other side of the Gazebo were two of the DancingMushrooms, the large one, and the small one she recognized as "Little Hop".
"It's amazing," Jessica said as she looked back at the Sidles who were all watching her. Fantasia was Laura's favorite movie of all time, but she wasn't exactly sure why they wanted her to see the box.
"There's another plaque inside," Sara spoke up softly, "Over on the left."
Turning back to look at the box she found the smaller plaque and read it.
We laugh and cry,
We work and play,
We help each other
Every day.
The world's a lovely
Place to be
Because we are
A family.
Glancing down at the bottom she was surprised when she saw more.
Our Family,
Laura, Jack, Scorpio, Sunshine, and Jessie girl.
God gave us to each other the Summer of 1986
A Gift to cherish for all time.
"Oh God," Jessica whispered, covering first her mouth and then her face with her hands as she was suddenly overcome by tears.
"Jack started making it a year ago, and Laura picked the figurines out," Sara smiled softly as she pulled her friend into her arms.
"Laura of course is our Goddess of the Hunt," Jack smiled
"Exactly," Laura grinned. "And of course my two mushrooms, Scor is of course Little Hop what with walking in Jack's footsteps all the time," she teased and Chris shook his head good naturally. "Then of course there are my two angels," she continued softly. "The Blue one, Beauty in Bloom is Sara, my little blue obsessed girl. And when I saw the Pink one, Romantic Reflections...I just knew it was you. After all, of my two girl childs, you were the one I always saw as having the greatest love. The stars were always shining on you in that respect."
Jessica was so overcome with what she was feeling at finding out that she finally had a family to call her own that she couldn't form any words through her tears, simply holding onto Sara as if she was a lifeline.
"Shh, Girl Child," Laura whispered as she joined them and pulled Jessica into her own arms. "You must dry your tears, you have to leave very soon," she continued with a smile. "But after today, never forget. We were given two children of our blood, but Jack and I agree, in our hearts, we were blessed with three. And we thank your parents for giving such a beautiful creature to this world that we could share with them, and in a small way call our own."
"Thank you," Jessica said quietly hugging Laura, before stepping back a bit and trying to wipe away her tears.
"Alright, you two need to get going. Call us when you get to Vegas and let us know you made it alright," Jack spoke up as he came over to hug Jessica quickly before moving over to hug Sara.
"Yeah, what he said," agreed Chris giving Jessica a quick hug. "Better get used to it Duchess, you're stuck with us," he whispered in her ear before stepping back and grinning. "Okay Jack, how much you want to bet I can carry more than you."
"You're a fool if you think I'd get into a bet like that Scorpio," Jack countered.
"My Boy Child, always trying to outdo his father," Laura shook her head. "Come on, we can walk down and leave them to their games."
Shaking her head Sara joined her mother before offering her hand to Jessica. "Ready sis?"
"Yeah…sis, I'm ready," agreed Jessica taking Sara's outstretched hand.
"Come see us anytime Jessie girl, even without my young Goddess," Laura smiled softly. "And you must bring your love, I've always wanted to meet the man who I saw would bring peace to your soul," Laura spoke as they said their final goodbyes at the car.
"You didn't invite them to the Gala Sara?" Jessica asked turning to look at her friend.
"She did, but we both know, an event like that is not something Jack and I would be comfortable at. We're too set in our ways, and used to our quiet ways. The public eye..." she trailed off with a shrug.
"Well then, you'll all have to come up to the estate sometime when Nick's there so you can meet him," Jessica offered.
"That sounds like a plan my girl," Jack agreed. "But you two really should get on the road. We'll talk with you soon," he continued as he pulled his wife back to stop more hugs.
"We'll call when we land," Jessica said starting up the car.
"Bye!" Sara called as they drove away before turning to Jessica. "Ready to go home?"
"More than you know," Jessica replied quietly. "How did you know? Nick's the only one I told..."
"Mac called this afternoon. He was concerned about the statement you made about us not being family. He knew how we considered you family and was worried that Stevens had gotten to you. That and Tanya filled us in on what Stevens had pulled on you when the rest of us were comparing notes. Did you know he's going to be John's lawyer in Vegas too?" Sara asked with a sigh.
"Well, at least we're better prepared for him this time around. We better warn the others though," Jessica said as they pulled into the airport where Phillip was waiting for them.
"That we will. Besides, something tells me I better warn them about what might come out on the stand," Sara sighed softly before they got out of the car. "You're in luck by the way, you missed out on the interrogation about why I never informed them about Lennie...I've never seen Laura resemble the Goddess of the Hunt so much before that convo," she shuddered slightly.
"I can imagine. I'm sorry I wasn't there for you when you needed me Sara. I feel like I've let you down," Jessica sighed as she helped Sara onto the plane.
"Jyn girl, how could you have been there for me?" Sara asked softly. "I never told a soul, let alone you, you can't help a person if you don't know what's going on. I don't blame you for anything."
"I didn't mean back then, Sara. I meant having to deal with your family. I understand why you kept silent about what happened at Harvard, believe me I do and instead of being there supporting you while you dealt with your family, I run away."
"Now don't even go there," Sara spoke up looking at her with a slight glare. "Honey, it wasn't like I was facing the firing squad. And you needed the time to yourself. Don't you dare be upset about that either! I'll sic Nick on you so fast your head will spin if you do," she threatened lightly.
"All right, all right, I give. Elsie already set Nick on my case, I don't need you doing the same thing," Jessica said rolling her eyes as she buckled her seatbelt so Phillip could take off.
"Good. Cause it's the truth you know," Sara smiled softly. "Come on sister mine, let's get our butts back to Vegas, they're probably going insane without us after all."
Tuesday February 14th, 2006
5:45 p.m.
Venetian Resort
Hotel Room
Valentine's Day had dawned bright and quiet for the ladies of the Las Vegas CSI Nightshift. Each had awakened that morning to find a single rose and a note telling them to enjoy the day and the men would see them tonight, at various times. Jessica and Mia both were told they would be met at six, whereas Catherine and Sara were informed they would be met at seven-thirty. Until then, they had a day of pampering planned, and transportation waiting to take them to their destination; a destination that turned out to be the Venetian Hotel, and the famous Canyon Rock Spa Club that resided there. Upon their arrival, the four were brought together to discuss their day, each lady was to partake of the spa's recommended "day at the spa", beginning with a massage, followed by a Body Cocoon, then a facial and any salon service. The salon service in question was to have their nails done, as their day also included having their make-up and hair done at the salon as well.
After a truly relaxing day, and a lovely lunch spent together at the Canyon Ranch Café, other than Mia who had lunch delivered, with a note saying that it was homemade, so no worries about any germs, to which she had laughingly shook her head then refused to explain what it all meant to her confused companions. Shrugging the three let her be, and so they continued to enjoy their day, and just before six o'clock found the four women in the hotel room they were given the key to after their time in the spa and a note saying: Take your time,and have fun getting in touch with your inner teenager. Taking the words to heart, the four had made their way to the hotel room only to spend the last hour getting dressed and finishing and final touches while they giggled and laughed like they hadn't since they were getting ready for school dances years before.
Jessica emerged from the bedroom in a strapless, ankle length red satin ball gown that was covered in elegant black lace. The diamond heart-shaped pendent Nick had given her for Christmas around her neck and her hair falling in soft waves down her back.
"All right Miss Mia," Catherine spoke up as she looked over at the youngest woman in their party. "Spill, just how long have you and Greg been seeing each other? We're dying to know here."
Mia looked over at her from where she stood in front of the mirror dressed in an ice blue, silk lace dress, with an edgy but very girly cut. Finished with a scattering of beads and a flirtatious, low-cut back that they knew was going to make Greg drop dead. "Well..." she began with a shrug. "I would have thought that Greg and I learned from watching all of you about how to keep relationships quiet in the lab."
"Ah, but you learned too well," Catherine grinned as she turned to look at the other two women, while she shook the skirt of her crinkled silk dress slightly. The dress was stunning on her, slipping from pale pink to deep scarlet in fluttery asymmetrical tiers, and made Catherine look so much more relaxed than she had as of late with chasing after a teenager and newborn.
"Well, I suppose I have to tell after all," Mia sighed before smiling. "A year in April."
"Ten months?" Jessica asked in shock. "Wow. And you've managed to keep it quiet all this time?"
"Mm hmm," Mia smiled. "I suppose it does help that we never eat out, I have issues with restaurants. And birthday cake...long story," she continued seeing Catherine's raised eyebrow.
"Not really, makes sense to me. You work with DNA, you know just what happens when one blows on birthday candles," Sara spoke up as she carefully made her way into the room, companion-less, and even more wary in a place she had never been before.
"Oh my God, Griss is going to die," Catherine spoke when she saw Sara, as Jessica walked over to help her into the room. Sara was dressed in a strapless wine-colored chiffon gown, that wrapped slightly in front to give it an elegant draped look, with a gently shirred bodice that had a rhinestone broach on her left shoulder. Around her neck was a gorgeous Dragonfly pendant, with three pearls as the body and diamond accents, and beautifully done gold wings.
Sara smiled softly as she looked towards Catherine. "You think?" she asked as she worried her bottom lip between her teeth.
"Think?" Catherine repeated shaking her head. "We don't need to think, we know. That man is going to be stunned speechless," she grinned. "And it's about time if you ask me, we've been waiting for this for years."
"Really?" Sara asked, still not quite convinced.
"Yes really," chided Jessica lightly.
"Sara, if Griss actually manages to take you to dinner and not take you home to ravish you senseless instead, he's got more self-control than I ever thought he did," Catherine added.
Sara laughed as she shook her head. "Alright, alright. I get the hint, no more Sara doubts about her appearance or you three might kill me."
"Well those two might kill you, I'll just make sure there's no DNA evidence left behind," Mia replied with a smile.
"It's official ladies, Mia is now one of us. We must officially induct her into the club in a few weeks, she can help us plan all those evil plots we have against the men in our lives," Catherine smiled evilly.
"And I'll hide any ballistics evidence so no worries there, but Mia and I better get going as our dates should be arriving soon," Jessica pointed out.
"Evil plots?" Mia asked curiously as she and Jessica gathered their things.
"Yep, every time one of them screws up we plot how to kill them and get rid of the evidence without getting caught," Jessica explained. "How many times have you threatened Nick now Sara?"
"Oh I know, I think Nick's threats would be well into the double digits now," Sara smiled.
"Yup, we're constantly threatening to kill the men in our lives, well that and kill various members of society and our family. Although I suppose of anyone in society, Ecklie and Hodges would be the only true victims of our plots," Catherine mused. "But you two need to meet your guys, so out you go. Have fun, and don't do anything I wouldn't," she added with a wink.
"Umm how about they don't do anything you would do," Sara argued. "I don't think we need anyone else pregnant in the near future missy," she continued before slapping a hand to her mouth. "Oops."
"Oops is right, none of you heard that," Catherine continued after rolling her eyes.
"Heard what?" asked Jessica with a smile. "Did you hear anything Mia?"
"Not a thing," replied Mia with a smile.
"Good, cause I'm telling Rick tonight so the formal announcement will be out tomorrow," Catherine smiled. "But shoo, skit, skadaddle, and get your butts out of here," she ordered before Jessica and Mia did as they were being told, merely to escape her ordering them about, and made their way to where they were told to be at six o'clock. Only to find Greg there with a rose for Mia, and a note that directed Jessica to a car waiting for her.
Jessica was rather confused when the car that had picked her up had no sign of Nick anywhere and was pulling up in front of their house. As the driver helped her out of the car, Jessica began to get worried that something had happened that had prevented Nick from being there to pick her up like he'd promised. Jessica's stomach started doing flip-flops as she walked towards the darkened house.
"Nick?" Jessica called worriedly as she opened the front door. Her breath was taken away when she got a glimpse of Nick standing before her in a well fitted tux, holding a single red rose to his lips.
"Happy Valentine's Day," Nick greeted as he stepped up to Jessica, giving her the rose and then kissing her before taking her hand and leading her into the living room.
"Oh Nick," Jessica whispered as he led her into the room that was lit by nothing but a roaring fire and numerous candles. A picnic spot set up in front of the fire with large pillows for them to sit on, a covered plate and a bottle of Champagne sitting off to one side.
Nick led Jessica over to the seating area he'd set up in front of the fire, helping her sit down before sitting down opposite her, handing her a crystal flute of Champagne.
"So what are we toasting to?" Jessica asked curiously, simply loving this side to the strong Texan before her.
"Us, my Valentine," Nick replied as he clinked his glass on Jessica's before leaning in and kissing her again. After taking a sip of Champagne after separating, Nick took the top off the plate on the floor in front of them, revealing a plate full of strawberries. Picking one up he fed it gently to Jessica, once again leaning in to kiss her.
"What did I do to deserve you Nicholas Stokes?" Jessica asked quietly a few moments later, as they sat there their foreheads touching, her hand caressing his cheek. "What was it that made you choose me?"
"I honestly don't know," replied Nick, kissing her lightly again. "The day you first showed up in Vegas, we all thought you were Sara from a distance. But when we were all in the room together, there was just something about you. I can't really describe it but I felt drawn to you in a way that I have never felt before. I have never seen a cuter klutz than you," he teased causing Jessica to blush and turn away. "I think it only made me fall that much harder," he told her as he turned her gaze back to him. "What about you, what made you choose me?"
"Well, as you know Sara told me a lot about everyone she worked with in Vegas whenever we talked. I never imagined that I would ever actually meet any of you but when I saw you…I don't know. I just seemed to know that you were the one. You were the only guy that I had ever met that I actually wanted to get to know better. I think it also helped that when you looked at me, it wasn't the name or the money you were seeing. I turned into a klutz around you because I wanted you so badly but figured you'd never look at me the way I wanted you too," Jessica replied.
"Why didn't you ever say anything?" Nick asked curiously.
"I was so confused by what I was feeling. I wanted you and was being drawn to you and that had never happened to me before. It scared the daylights out of me. I'd never felt anything like that before Nick. With the exception of my time with the Sidles, my life was pretty sheltered growing up and given the fact that my guardians were quite old, I had no one to really help me in that department."
"What about Sara? She's like a sister to you."
"I know that Nick and believe me, I wish I could have gone to her but there is four years between us. By the time I needed to talk to her, she was already at Harvard and it wasn't exactly something I could ask over the phone or in a letter or anything. I think it was during those years that I missed my parents the most, not really having anybody to guide me through it so, when I got hit by such an intense pull towards you, I didn't know what to do or how to react so I ended up tripping all over myself."
"Well, while you were very cute tripping all over yourself, I think I much prefer the beautiful and elegant woman sitting in front of me," Nick said leaning in and kissing Jessica once more, only this time instead of pulling apart, Nick gently laid Jessica down, not breaking the kiss.
Tuesday February 14th, 2006
7:00 p.m.
Venetian Resort
Grand Canal Shoppes
"That was amazing," Sara smiled as she glanced over at her companion. Catherine grinned before linking their arms together once more as they turned from St. Mark's Square. They had just watched the Artisti del Arté group perform, and for a few moments, you could almost believe you were back in Renaissance Venice with the songs and other aspects of the show.
"So, we've raided the majority of the stores here, had people looking at us like we're some sort of models what with just strolling around the shops in our gorgeous outfits," Catherine paused as Sara giggled. "And we have our drinks," she continued holding up her Black Forest drink from The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf shop they had raided an hour earlier.
"That we do, which reminds me, just what is in a "Black Forest"?"
"Well, their secret coffee extract, which I swear we have to break into their building one day and find out just what it is," Catherine began with a smirk. "That and a special Dutch Chocolate blended with ice, chocolate espresso beans, maraschino cherries and non-fat milk."
"Okay, if it weren't for the fact I've sworn off coffee as of late, I'd be so getting that," Sara laughed as they crossed over the bridge on the canal. After Mia and Jessica had gone to meet Greg and Nick, she and Catherine had found themselves with an hour and a half to spare, so they had decided to spend some leisurely time strolling around the stores. An hour into their time together, they were completely relaxed, and Sara herself was surprised to find she wasn't missing Sahidi as she imagined she would. Not that she wasn't missing her companion, but having Catherine to walk with and not worry about killing somebody was making it just a bit less scary than she had once imagined.
"So, what exactly is in your "Malibu Dream"? Since we're comparing drinks here." Catherine teased.
"Strawberry-Banana juice blended with French Vanilla and ice," Sara smiled. "I do intend to sleep at some point tonight after all," she continued with a smile.
"Oh, look, it's a Lladró store," Catherine exclaimed looking over at Sara. "Shall we look?"
"Oh, of course. I adore Lladró. My mother collects figurines and has always dreamed of getting a piece."
"Who knew, all this time there was indeed a girly girl underneath that hard girl exterior," Catherine teased softly.
"Oh, shove it," Sara shot back as they entered the store and began to look around, Catherine describing various figurines.
"Oh, this one is beautiful," Catherine spoke up after a few minutes.
"Oh?"
"It's called 'A Moments Rest'. It's a butterfly resting by a small yellow flower, it's about...two-and-a-half by four-and-a-half inches."
"What does the butterfly look like?" Sara asked curious.
"White with mauve tipped wings and bluish purple markings," Catherine explained.
"Beautiful," Sara agreed picturing it."
"Oh wow, now that is amazing," Catherine sighed when she spotted the figurine further up on the shelf.
"What?"
"It's a couple on a horse, looks just like I always thought the prince and princess did in Snow White when they were going back to the castle."
"Ah, Love Story," Sara nodded knowingly. "That one is amazing," she continued with a smile. "It was released in ninety-three, they retired it six-years ago."
"You know a lot about it," Catherine mused glancing away from the figurine of the prince holding the girl in front of him as they rode the white horse.
"Ninety-three was the year Jyn graduated, I was looking around Lladró for a gift for her, and saw it. If I had the money..." Sara trailed off with a shrug.
"Ah I see," Catherine nodded. "Okay, let's continue to explore."
"Sounds good," Sara agreed with a smile.
Ten minutes later, the two women had made their way out to the Great Hall where Warrick and Grissom were waiting for them, both men dressed nicely in suits, and holding flowers for their lady-loves. Only to just about keel over when Catherine and Sara came into their line of sight.
"Acushla, you look...amazing," Grissom whispered as he took her hand. Waving goodbye to Catherine and Warrick, he led her out to the waiting car with a smile, while she yelled at him for spending so much money that day having "complete knowledge of just how much a day like the one they all had had cost."
Shaking his head once they were in the car he leaned over and gently placed a finger against her lips to silence her before laughing. "Acushla, honey. I'm allowed to spoil you remember?"
"Yes, but spoiling and spending a fortune are two different things," she argued.
"Consider it making up for lost time," he replied softly and she turned to look at him in surprise before shaking her head.
"Fine, but no more spending a fortune on me. I'll be forced to hurt you, and that would be absolutely the worst thing in the world right now," she teased slightly.
"Good to hear," he smiled. "So, just how was your day Acushla?"
"Well…" Sara began as she thought back over the day.
Twenty minutes later Grissom was shaking his head when he heard about Catherine's prediction of his reaction as he turned the car off. "To be honest, that almost did happen," he smiled as she looked over at him surprised. "But on the other hand, you and I both know that I wouldn't do that without your consent in the first place, so having to argue with myself wasn't as hard as it might be for say Greg, Nick, or even Warrick."
Smiling softly she trailed her fingers up his arm to softly brush his cheek. "God, I love you."
"Good to here," he smiled as he turned to kiss her palm. "Cause I love you too. But we're here honey," he continued before turning and making his way around the car to help her from the car and lead her to their destination.
"So where is 'here'?" she asked as they walked from the car.
"Lake Las Vegas."
"Lake Las Vegas?" she repeated glancing up at him. "What's here?" she continued confused.
"Dinner," he replied vaguely, and she glared at him.
"La Sera buona bella signora, i gentiluomini superiori. San Valentino felice."
Glancing away from him in surprise Sara glanced around for the man speaking Italian.
"Good evening Antonio," Grissom greeted the man as he stopped and turned to Sara. "Happy Valentine's Day Acushla, in a few moments, we're going to board a gondola," he began.
"A Gondola?" she repeated completely shocked.
"A Gondola," he replied with a smile. "Are you ready?" he continued lifting her hand to drop a kiss on the back.
"What do you think?" she asked with a laugh. "Okay, girly moment here, but this is so cool," she grinned.
Grissom laughed, "Good to hear you are happy," he replied as he led her to the gondola. Once they were both seated Antonio took his place and they started out on the lake, Antonio beginning to sing different songs in Italian.
"I'm not even going to ask how you heard of this," Sara smiled as she looked towards Grissom.
"I have my sources Acushla," he smiled as he brought dinner over. "Caesar Salad, my Love?"
"Please," she grinned in response.
An hour later, after dinner and a lovely evening listening to Antonio sing and tell them tales of the glorious history of the Gondola, their Gondola being the 'La Fenice'. As they approached the "Bridge of Love", also known as the Ponte Vecchio bridge, Antonio changed to singing That's Amore and Sara laughed softly, of all the rather clichéd songs to sing. But it was beautiful just the same.
"There's a tradition you know," Grissom began and she turned to look at him.
"Oh?"
"Couples are expected to kiss under the bridge," he explained and she laughed softly.
"Sounds like a fantastic tradition, and we wouldn't want to break with tradition would we?"
"No, we wouldn't," he agreed with a smile as he reached over to pick up the small bouquet he'd kept out of her reach during the trip. Laying it on her lap he smiled as she looked at him quizzically for a moment before gently trailing her fingers over the flowers.
"Roses?" she asked with a smile. "And Baby's Breath?" she continued unsure.
"Read the card," he replied with a smile and she carefully trailed her fingers further across the flowers to find the card, her name Embossed on the front of the envelope.
Slipping the envelope open she pulled out the card and read the Braille.
Three flowers, three meanings. Pink and White Roses, I love you and always will. Red Roses, for the passionate love I feel for you, the beat of my heart. And Baby's Breath, for the happiness you bring simply by being with me.
Glancing up at him she smiled softly. "God you're trying to make me cry, aren't you?"
"That wasn't my initial plan, no," he whispered gently taking her fingers and moving them further down the card.
Glancing back at the card when she felt more raised letters she frowned before starting to read.
Spend the next 18,250 days with me.
"18,250 days?" Sara asked looking up at him confused. "Fifty years?" she continued doing the math. "Gil?" she asked slowly, not wanting to jump to conclusions.
"Sara Marie Sidle, Sunshine Princess of Fire," he added and she shook her head slightly as he gently grasped her hands. "Will you marry an old fool like me?"
"Oh my God," Sara gasped as her eyes filled with tears. "Oh baby, what do you think?" she replied with a smile as she sniffed back a fresh wave of tears. "Of course I'll marry you."
Smiling he leaned down and kissed her tenderly just as they passed under the bridge, and Antonio smiled. As they came out from under the bridge Sara pulled back to wipe at her eyes.
Grissom gently traced her cheek before trailing his hand down her arm to her hand and led her fingers back to the bouquet, where she found a rose with a small ribbon around the stem she hadn't noticed earlier. Glancing at him she followed the ribbon down to the end, where it was tied around a ring. Looking up at him she caught her bottom lip between her teeth unsure. Grissom smiled and carefully untied the ring before lifting her left hand and slipping the ring on her finger.
"What's it look like?" she asked softly as she traced the diamonds, she assumed they were diamonds, with her right fingers.
"It's white gold, I know you normally wear yellow, but when I saw it…" he shrugged lightly. "There's one diamond center stone and two round diamond side stones in a prong setting, and four round diamond accents in a channel setting," he continued and she looked up at him with a smirk.
"Who knew that Gil Grissom would have knowledge about gemstones," she teased softly.
"And I thought you would know by now, I have a good deal of hidden knowledge," he teased right back.
"Oh hush," she argued before kissing him once more. "I so have to call Jess later," she continued and he laughed in response.
Tuesday February 14th, 2006
10:15 p.m.
Stokes-Harrison Residence
"Baby, it's time to get up," Nick said lightly kissing Jessica's neck where it met her shoulder.
"I want to stay right here," mumbled Jessica sleepily.
"I do to Baby, but we promised Griss we'd work tonight so he can be with Sara," Nick said as Jessica rolled over to face him from her spot next to the fire.
"Oh all right," Jessica groaned as she let Nick help her up before they made their way towards the bedroom, where they both took quick showers and got dressed.
Luckily they managed to make it into the lab parking lot just as 11 o'clock struck, quickly making their way from the car into the building, hoping beyond hope that nobody noticed the fact that were in fact late, Jessica hurrying into Gris' office to pick up the assignment sheets before joining Nick in the break room where Greg was supposed to meet them
"Ah, so you finally arrive," Greg spoke up when she entered.
"I'm only a few minutes late Greg," replied Jessica. "Okay, Nick a B & E at the Bellagio. Some idiot decided to steal a necklace for his girlfriend," she said handing the slip of paper to Nick, watching him leave with a small smile on her face. "Greg you're with me on a DB. Lover's quarrel turns to murder."
Greg remained silent until they were in the car on their way, and then turned to look at Jessica with a smile. "So, had a good evening I take it."
"What makes you say that?" asked Jessica completely innocently.
"Wet hair in a ponytail, for once not early, and yes, you were never as bad as Ms. Sidle and her two hour early minimum habit, but you are normally fifteen minutes early..." he trailed off.
"Your night must not have been as enjoyable as mine then Greg, if you're so interested in what Nick and I did," Jessica smirked.
"Ah well, I never kiss and tell my dear," Greg answered with a smile of his own. "So, have to ask. Mia wouldn't say, how did Sara look?"
"Let's just hope that Griss doesn't suddenly drop dead of a heart attack," smiled Jessica in remembrance. "I've never seen Sara look as stunning as she did tonight."
Greg grinned. "Oh yeah, us guys have so got to interrogate Grissom about his thoughts tomorrow then while you ladies are doing your own reviews."
Before Jessica had a chance to respond in any way, shape or form, be it to change the subject or what, her phone rang. "Harrison."
"Hey Jyn girl," Sara greeted.
"Sara?" Jessica asked in surprise. "Hang on a sec," she said parking the Tahoe before she and Greg got out. "Greg, go check in with Brass and then start photographing the scene," Jessica instructed before turning her attention back to the phone as she pulled her field kit from the back of the Tahoe. "What are you doing calling me? Aren't you with Gil?"
"I am, we're on our way home. But I had to call you," she replied.
"Sara, I'm at a crime scene, what could possibly be so important?" asked Jessica as she began walking towards where Brass was interviewing the boyfriend of the dead girl.
"Well, I won't keep you long, didn't know if you would be on scene. But do you think I can steal Heaven's Paradise for Christmas?"
"Sara you know that you can borrow Heaven's Paradise whenever you want. Wait a minute...Christmas? As in this coming Christmas like December 2006?" asked Jessica in complete confusion. "Sara what in the world is going on?"
"Well I'm thinking a small group, just Laura, Jack, and Eleanor, Scor will be with Gil, and would you be my maid of honor?" she finished with a giggle.
"What?" Jessica asked. "Sara did you just tell me what I think you just told me, without actually telling me or am I hearing things?'
"I just told you what you think I told you," Sara replied with a laugh. "Gil proposed!" she gave a small shriek.
Jessica screamed and dropped her kit, surprising everyone gathered at the crime scene, Greg giving her a strange look. "Oh my God Sara! Congratulations," she said with a huge smile on her face, completely oblivious to the people staring at her.
Sara laughed and Jessica could hear Gil asking if everything was okay. "Everything's fine, just preparing you for Catherine's response tomorrow," Sara told him before coming back to her. "Thank you! And you better pick up your kit and get to work. And tell Jim I'm going to kill him, I just know he was involved in this. Oh and Gil says tell Jim 'sorry, can't save you from the women'," she continued after a pause.
"Will do," replied Jessica with a laugh. "And tell Gil I said it's about bloody time," she said picking up her kit and starting on her way back over to Jim. "I'll talk to you tomorrow, Sis."
"Talk to you tomorrow," Sara answered before hanging up.
"Okay, what happened?" Greg asked as Jim merely smiled knowingly.
"Thank you Jim, it's about time he got off his butt and made her happy," Jessica said giving Jim a peck on the cheek. "Oh and Gil says he can't save you from us women."
"Oh well, I'll gladly pay the price since it finally got those two heading down the aisle," Jim answered.
"Wait! They're engaged!" Greg gave a surprisingly good impression of a soprano.
"Nothing going on here, too much sweets, that's all." Jim informed the few officers who had turned to look at the younger CSI warily.
"Now might be a good time to get to work Greg," Jessica prompted before pushing him towards the door.
"Ok," Greg answered still in a daze as he made his way inside.