I'm glad you liked the first chapter. This one is a little more serious, but the negotiating is necessary so we can get back to the fun and games in chapter three.

Thanks to mamaverd and Sairs J for their honest appraisals when I needed feedback. And thanks to SMChick for the PM conversation that sparked this; I hope I did it justice.

It was Tuesday afternoon and Andy was just walking into Headquarters. Her appointment was in thirty minutes and she wasn't about to rush in at the last second. She knew how important this meeting was and it could make or break her; she had to be calm, cool, collected… and prepared.

It had been two days since they had taken their twenty minutes… well okay it was more like a half an hour. Just long enough to eat and… satisfy their appetite. But before Sam left, they had agreed to give it a go. As soon as they were free to see each other, they would… see each other, that is. So she was not about to screw this up; she had plans. And if the first part of her plan worked, the suspension was going to go a lot smoother.

Andy looked around for the familiar face; he had said he would see her there. She wasn't sure if she should go looking for him or wait for him to find her. She didn't have to wonder long though before she saw him approach.

She flashed him a smile, which he happily returned.

"Hey."

"Hey."

"I was surprised you wanted to meet me. I wasn't really expecting your call this morning."

"Yeah, it was kind of a long night. Sorry."

"It's okay, just, why are you here?"

"Traci told us what you were planning to do today and…"

"You can't talk me out of it." Traci had already tried that.

"I know. That's not why I'm here."

Andy furrowed her brow.

"Traci really wanted to help." He defended, worried that he was getting her in trouble.

But Andy wasn't angry; she hadn't told Traci it was a secret besides if it worked, she was pretty sure the news would travel fast. She just really didn't know why he was here. "Okay…" Andy let the implied question trail off.

"She came to me yesterday afternoon; she wanted to know everything in the manual that pertained to the situation, what they could possibly throw at you today. I told her what I could and then asked her why she wanted to know." He looked at Andy warily, unsure of what her response would be. "She told me what you had told her when she came to see you."

Andy nodded in understanding.

When she didn't get upset, he continued. "She said she wanted to help you but wasn't sure how. Between the three of us we were able to figure out what we needed to do."

He handed her a stack of papers. "We pulled an all nighter putting it together."

Andy flipped through the pages; she couldn't believe what they had done for her. "Wow. Thank you… this is… I really appreciate this."

He smiled remembering how it felt when they discovered Maggie Wilder's house in Pickering. "Hey. We're a team; we stick together. Well if you don't count Frosty the Snow Bitch."

"Chris!"

"Sorry," Chris shrugged his shoulders passing her a sheepish smile. "I think I spent too much time with Traci and Dov last night."

Andy laughed; it sounded like something her best friend would come up with. "Come on. She's not that bad. Gail did help us figure out Boyd's cover up."

"Yeah, she did." He conceded. "But that was an actual case and I have a feeling she was just doing it to…" He shook his head quickly, "... anyway, we asked her to stay and help us last night but I think her exact words were 'They made their bed, now they need to lie in it… alone!'"

Andy laughed again; it sounded like exactly the kind of thing the ice blonde would say but… that was just Gail and she wasn't surprised. "If this all works out, I'm going to owe you a drink… all of you."

"Sounds good." Chris agreed before motioning towards the door. "I gotta get going so… let me know?"

Andy gave him a distracted nod as he walked away, her attention already on the papers in her hand. She began to study them, thankful that she had come early and before she knew it she was being called in. She stood up confidently and took a deep breath as she followed the officer into the room.

Andy was greeted by the head of the Internal Affairs board who introduced everyone at the table; she didn't know any of the three member panel, though Superintendent Peck who was also present needed no introduction. To the side, Sergeant Best and her union rep were noted as observers who would only become involved should they be asked to.

Andy listened as they outlined the process and then proceeded to ask her to provide her recollection of the events. Periodically she was asked for clarification which she provided to the best of her knowledge.

Once they were satisfied that they had all of the answers, Superintendent Peck outlined the conditions of the suspension explaining to Andy, among other things, that the imposed suspension would remain in effect for eighteen days; at the end of which Sergeant Best would contact her to resume her schedule. Andy was then asked if she had anything to add.

She cleared her throat and squared her shoulders. Frank caught the determined look in her eye and hoped she knew what she was doing. She was a rookie and he wouldn't have recommended pushing her luck; hell, Sam had been on the force for years and he wouldn't have recommended that he push his luck either. He should have known though; this was McNally and she didn't shy away from anything…work related anyway.

"I understand that I have been suspended and I accept that after what I did but with all due respect, what is the purpose for having Officer Swarek and I stay apart?"

"Excuse me?"

"I was informed that part of the condition of the suspension was that Officer Swarek and I were prohibited from having contact with each other."

"That is correct."

"I'm also told that Officer Swarek will be coming in here as soon as you are finished with me. But once the hearings are over, what is the purpose?"

"The purpose?"

"Yes. I recognize that prior to these hearings you may not have wanted us to discuss the events before giving our statements. But now that my statement is over and his soon will be, what will our being together undermine? I would think…"

"Officer McNally you're hardly in a position to be making demands."

"I'm not making demands Ma'am. With all due respect, I'm just trying to understand. The damage has been done and I am more than willing to serve the suspension but I do not believe that banning contact serves any purpose. In fact I believe it would be counterproductive."

"How do you mean?"

"Officer Swarek's record prior to this, were you happy with it?"

"Of course."

"From what I've seen, he's probably one of your most capable officers."

"He is."

"So you would of course want him back."

"Of course, but I think that's obvious in the fact that he wasn't let go."

"Then don't you think it's important for his support system to be even stronger now. I understand that what we did was wrong; we both know that. But our actions notwithstanding, he was held hostage and tortured; that doesn't just go away."

"As with any case such as this, he will be referred to the department psychologist."

"A psychologist isn't there 24/7. They can't be there in the times that he would really need the support; you don't just turn those feelings on and off as it's 'required'. Is he/she going to be there when Sa...Officer Swarek has a nightmare? Will he/she just happen to be there when something reminds him of what he went through?"

"And you think you will?"

"I hope so. But even if I'm not, at least the option is there. I should think you'd want to avoid any undue stress. I'm not saying that not seeing me will cause that, but I just don't think it's necessary to put any extra strain on him."

Andy was gaining steam and Frank, though still leery that she was pushing her luck, was also proud of her. He knew Sam well enough to know that the department psychologist wasn't going to do him much good. Any time Sam came back from a UC and had to go see her, he would come out of there with the all clear to go back to work and joke about how he had her eating out of his hand within five minutes. And even though Frank knew Sam could probably benefit from the sessions this time, because Andy was right this doesn't just go away, he knew his friend well enough to know that Sam wouldn't share with a stranger; hell Sam hardly shared with his friends. But if his feelings for Andy were strong enough that he was willing to put everything at risk, maybe they were strong enough to let her in too. She probably was his best bet because Frank knew this wasn't something he would share with his sister. He didn't know the whole story there, but he did know that Sam told them never to worry her until it was a last resort.

"We will take that into consideration, Officer McNally." The Superintendent assured her. "Now if there's nothing else." It was a statement but the question was inferred.

"Just some evidence Ma'am."

"Evidence?"

"Well, more like back-up I guess. In your consideration, I would like to give you some studies regarding PTSD and the documented benefits of a healthy support system."

Frank couldn't help but notice that Superintendent Peck was a little surprised and what he thought was impressed? It wasn't often that someone took enough initiative to catch her attention, but it appeared that McNally had done just that. She had definitely done her homework, and Frank knew that moves like that went a long way with the woman in charge.

"I've also had some previous records pulled addressing the precedent of the department involving itself in an Officer's personal life…"

"With all due respect Officer McNally, you were the ones to bring your personal life into work; you didn't leave us much choice but to…"

"You're right; we did. And it was wrong; I'm just trying to right that wrong."

Peck was again caught off guard as was the rest of the panel. The people who stood up to the Superintendent like that were few and far between. This girl had guts.

Peck pulled herself back together quickly. "As I said, we'll take it into consideration."

"That's all I can ask Ma'am. Thank you for your time."

"You're Welcome. You'll be informed if there are any changes." She said by way of dismissal.

It wasn't an outright refusal and Andy couldn't help but feel some hope at that, though she did her best to remain professional as she moved towards the exit.

"Sergeant Best will be contacting you."

Andy exchanged a quick nod with Frank in confirmation. She could see the pride in his eyes and it only served to boost her confidence even more. "Thank you." She announced to the room before making her way out.

When she got to the foyer, Andy took a deep breath and smiled a contented smile; it was over and she was satisfied that she had done herself proud. Now it was in their hands… and Sam's.

She knew he was scheduled for four o'clock and it was only three forty-five. She took a quick look around and didn't see him, but what would she do if she did anyway? There were still forbidden to see each other so it's not like she could do anything about it.

She pulled out her phone and scrolled through her contacts till she found the one she was looking for. 'Went well, I think. Keep your fingers crossed.' She typed, walking out as she hit send.

Sam had been watching her; he was early as usual. Any other time, he would have gone out of his way to run into her, but that was not a good idea. He wasn't about to make any waves. He just wanted to go in there and get it over with, accept his punishment and go serve his time till he could be with Andy again.

He was happy to see that she wasn't upset; hopefully that meant it wasn't that bad. Though there was no sense in worrying about it. He knew what he had to do; he needed to take responsibility for his actions. He may not feel completely sorry for everything, especially getting the chance to be with Andy, but he would do his best to act apologetic and take whatever was coming to him.

When they didn't come out to get him right away, he sat down to wait for his turn. He was tired. He hadn't slept much the last couple of nights and he still had about ten minutes so he closed his eyes telling himself it was just to rest them for a bit. His thoughts wandered to Andy and stayed there until he was jolted from them by the scraping of a chair across the room. He looked down at his watch and was surprised to see that it was already ten minutes after four.

He was just starting to worry, when he was approached by another officer and ushered into the room. He watched the panel as they handed their papers back to Superintendent Peck. He recognized a couple of familiar faces, though he didn't know them well enough to feel that it was in his favor or not.

As with Andy, Sam was greeted by the head of the IA board who introduced everyone at the table. After exchanging nods with all of them and Sergeant Best and the union rep off to the side, Sam listened as they outlined the process and then proceeded to ask him to provide his recollection of the events. He answered any questions they had and he made sure to stress that it was Boyd's back story that allowed Brennan to make him. He wanted to defend Andy to say that her presence did not raise any suspicion but he thought it better to keep the focus on Boyd's actions so he simply stuck to the facts when describing Andy's involvement. He told them what happened and nothing more and when he described what went on at the house, he made sure they knew that Brennan told him that it was the name of the boat that did him in. He knew what he and Andy had done was wrong, but he needed them to know that wasn't the reason the case went to hell. In fact, the more he thought about it, the more he wondered if it had actually saved his life. If she hadn't been there, would they have realized as quickly that he was gone?

"Is there something you'd like to add Officer Swarek?"

Sam was torn; he had been trying to stay impartial when it came to Andy's involvement and to refrain from what would look like him defending their actions. Could this help? He wasn't sure how. "Just… I know that what we did was a blatant disregard for policy, but now that I think about it, if she hadn't come, I'm not sure they would have known as quickly to come and get me. I was made…whether she was there or not… I was made because of Boyd."

"We get that Officer Swarek and Detective Boyd will be dealt with at another time so if we can…"

"I know… sorry. But if I was made and she hadn't been there, I can't help but wonder if I would I have been found in time?"

Frank spoke up; he didn't care if he wasn't summoned by the 'queen'. "He's right. Not only did she come to me with her concerns, at the risk of losing her job I might add, but she was instrumental in uncovering the truth about the cover up of Brennan's family's accident and the location he was holding Sam."

"Thank you." Superintendent Peck said curtly, obviously not appreciating the interruption. "Now if there's nothing else."

The panel waited to see if Sam would put in the same plea as Officer McNally. "No Ma'am."

"Good. Then as I believe you are aware, the suspension is set for three weeks. With time spent, you have fifteen days remaining. At the end of those days, Sergeant Best will contact you to resume your schedule."

"Yes. Thank you." Sam knew it would be a long suspension without work or Andy to keep him busy, but he still had both to go back to at the end and for that he would be thankful and respect their decision.

Sam stood up to leave but halted at the Superintendent's voice. "If you could, please wait for just a moment Officer Swarek."

"Sure." Sam said in confusion looking at Frank and his union guy for any clue. They both looked as puzzled as he did as they all watched the panel gather in discussion.

"Officer Swarek."

"Yes."

"You will be expected to report to the Department Psychologist within the week."

"Yes Ma'am." He knew it was coming; it was standard when you returned from any long-term undercover and especially with one that involved what they would consider 'a traumatic event'.

"May I ask you a personal question?"

Sam was a bit shocked by that, but did his best to conceal it. "Go ahead."

"You've been through quite an experience and there's not a lot of precedence set for it. But we believe the psychologist can help you with that."

Sam kept looking at her; it wasn't really a question.

"However, we also believe that a person must be open to that type of assistance."

"Agreed." Sam answered guardedly; he was starting to get worried. Did they suspect that he wouldn't be forthcoming in his sessions?

"Do you believe that the psychologist can help you with this?"

"Truthfully, I don't know. I'd like to say yes, and I'm sure she's very good at her job, but..." Sam wasn't sure how to put it; he wasn't one for baring his soul but he was pretty sure that wasn't what they wanted to hear. "I'll go. I know it's a requirement and I'll do what needs to be done."

It was easy for them to see that meant he would likely just be going through the motions. "Do you have friends or family you can talk to as well?"

Andy was right, he compartmentalized a lot and generally he would just suffer through the nightmares until he could push them deep enough so he didn't have to think about them anymore. He knew both Jerry and Ollie would listen to him, but he just wasn't that guy. He didn't talk about his feelings, but again he knew that's not what they wanted to hear.

"I have friends on the force; they know what it's like. If I want to talk, they're there."

There was another quick gathering. It was obvious that Officer McNally was right. Officer Swarek would not be talking on cue; if and when he talked, it would be on his terms and more than likely unplanned.

"Thank you, Officer Swarek.

"Thank you."

"Before you go, I would just like to reiterate the conditions of your suspension. You are suspended with pay for eighteen days, three days of which have been served. You will not go to the division or get involved in any open cases with any active member of the force. Any department issued equipment will be signed back in, if not already, and your badge will be given to your Sergeant to be returned when you are reinstated. Is that understood?"

"Yes, Ma'am." Sam couldn't help but notice that they did not mention anything about contacting Andy. Should he bring it up? Should he go see her and claim ignorance because they didn't mention it? He didn't want to take the chance.

"Is that all of them Ma'am?"

"Yes."

"What about Officer McNally? You didn't…"

"That condition has been lifted; you are no longer prohibited from contact with Officer McNally."

It took everything in Sam's power to keep his poker face. If he wasn't in front of his superiors, his dimples would have been front and center; in fact, he was definitely struggling to keep them at bay. How in the hell did that happen?

"Thank you." He couldn't hide the relief though and the panel was sure they had done the right thing. He would need someone around to make sure he talked, and after meeting with Andy they knew she would be up for the challenge.

"Don't thank us. Thank Officer McNally."

"Ma'am?"

"Let's just say she makes a strong case."

Sam looked over at Frank, who gave him a nod confirming that Andy had indeed stepped up to the plate for them.

Sam shook his head. He never even thought to fight it; didn't really think it was an option. He was just going to accept his fate and deal with it. Apparently Andy had other plans… and now he could be a part of them. He couldn't wait to find out what she said, and he was glad that he wouldn't have to.

"Sergeant Best, you'll let Officer McNally know about our decision."

"Yes, Ma'am." Frank confirmed. Sam could see he was holding back a smile as he stood and walked out with Sam.

"Wow!"

"She was good!" Frank bragged.

"What did she say?"

"I think I'll let her tell you that. And Sam, I know you're not big on sharing, but if you won't talk to the shrink talk to McNally. It will help."

"I know." Sam conceded. "It's just… I'm used to taking care of things on my own."

"But maybe this time you don't have too. You've got to admit this wasn't your run of the mill UC."

"I know it wasn't." And he did.

The first night after with Andy, it hadn't been too rough. He had woken up a number of times, but when he saw that she was there and they were safe he was able to fall back to sleep. Even if they hadn't talked, just having her there had made it better. These last couple of nights, on his own, they were a little tougher and sleep didn't come quite so easily.

"She can handle it, Sammy, and she obviously wants to be there for you."

Sam smiled, just a hint of a grin. "I know."

"Let her." Frank commanded, even knowing it wouldn't be as easy as that.

"Is that an order?" Sam's answer was almost automatic. He was the master at keeping things locked away – small compartments that he denied even himself access to.

"Does it need to be?"

Sam surprised himself a little when he realized. "No."

She already had the key.