Danvale Case

by lovlyangl

This story is the very first I'd done in 2007. It's been posted on TalkCSI. I thought it would be nice to fix it and post it here. It's SMacked based. There is a second Danvale Case I've started. Rated M/very long chapters.

6. Chapter 6

Later that night Angell wanted to be released.

"Flack, Flack, wake up."

"What is Angell, what's the matter?"

"I want to go back to your place. I don't feel safe here."

"You don't feel safe with me?"

"No...I don't feel safe here, please, just take me back to your place."

Not wanting to leave Angell to check with the nurse, he pushed the call button.

"Hello, what do you need?" asked the nurse.

"I would like Angell released, I'll be sure she's well looked after."

"I'm not sure if that is a good idea. I'll get the doctor to come talk to you." said the nurse.

When the nurse left to get the doctor, Angell began getting dressed right in front of Flack, who couldn't help but look.

"Angell, what are you doing?"

"Don't be shy Flack, not now. I'm going to your place and that's final."

"Excuse me, I'm doctor Sweth , I understand you'd like to be released."

"That's right, I'm fine, and ready to go home."

"Miss Angell, are you aware someone gave you a high dose of Methotrexate?"

"What the hell is that?" asked Flack.

"It's a drug mainly used for Cancer patients. It attacks the cells that are growing rapidly, it also causes abortions by seperating the fetus and placenta fron the lining of the Uterus."

"So is that what caused me to miscarry?"

"It is. I'm highly surprised someone could even get their hands on the product. I can honestly tell you whoever had access to this medication, was a Physician and or Radiologist."

Angell was shocked.

"Can this hurt me now or later?"

"The worst is over now. But you may still experience some vomiting and or stomach cramping."

"But it's okay to leave?"

"As long as your bleeding has slowed, it should be fine. But if you start with heavy flow or clotting you must return immediately."

"I will. Thank you Doctor."

"You are welcome. I will get your release papers and you can go."

Seeing the tears in Angell's eyes, Flack embraced her and whispered....

"It's okay baby, I promise I will protect you," as he kissed her hair.

..................................................................................................

Once Flack had her safely at his place, there was no way in hell he was letting her out of his sight.

"Angell, I'm going to share the bed with you, I think it's best."

Nodding her head she understood, she walked into the washroom and changed into another one of Flack's t-shirts. Coming out, she overheard Flack talking to someone.

"No. I'm telling you right now, I want this taken care of. I know you know people who can do this. It's not very often I ask you for anything, so do this for me, please."

Once the conversation finished on the other end, Flack turned and seen Angell standing there.

"Jennifer, you okay?"

Angell was a little stunned, it wasn't very often Flack used her name.

"I'm fine Don, who was that?"

"No one important, let's get you into bed. You need rest."

Once Flack had her settled in the bed, he laid down beside her and carefully embraced her.

*whispering*

"Jennifer?"

"Yeah Don?"

"Do you ever wonder why we never tried dating?"

"I did, and still do. The only thing that kept coming back was the fact that we worked together."

"Yeah, I guess that would do it. But Mac and Stella seemed to have overcome it."

"What are you trying to ask me Don?"

"I don't know Jen, I guess I'm just thinking about what could have been, or maybe I'm overtired."

"There is no could have been Don. But I can honestly tell you this, since I first came back, and you held me as I cried, I felt something change."

Looking into her eyes, he could feel the need and want begin, and as he leaned forward to kiss her she softly opened her mouth and invited him in. As the flame fueled, they both knew their lives were about to change forever.

Breaking the kiss, Don whispered.....

"I think our friendship has just become a relationship."

"Know what Don? I think you're right."

.............................................................................................

Meanwhile......

*Phone conversation*

"Listen, I have a job for you. I need this taken care of right away. I want you to go too New Orlean's and deal with a guy named Fredrick Rodwell. Call me when the job is done."

*Phone clicks in the background, as conversation ends

After processing and making some calls Mac headed home to his family. When he got upstairs he found his wife feeding Gary. This always amazed him, how his son suckled on his mothers breast with his little fist curled just above him.

Walking over, Mac caressed his sons crown, as he kissed his wife.

"How's Jennifer Mac?"

"She's doing okay. Don brought her back to his place. She lost her baby, but she seems to be holding up."

"Aww...I'm sorry."

Burping Gary, she passed him to his daddy, while she got up.

"Hon, why do you have that look about you?"

"What look love?"

"The look that says it's going to be a difficult case."

Kissing his son, while rubbing his back, he eyed his wife.

"I guess because it is love. She's gotten herself involved with some pretty shady people in New Orleans. I checked into the background of a couple names, seems they are Mofia connected."

"Oh my, so someone is out to kill her Mac? Can Don handle this alone?"

"He's not alone love, I have undercover units around his apartment. They'll be fine."

Placing his son in his crib. Mac wrapped his arms around her and just held her while they watched Gary sleep.

"Such innocence Mac."

"I know love. It's a crazy world we seem to bring our children into. Yet the world seems intent on reproducing."

Covering up their son, they headed to bed.

.........................................................................................................................

New Orleans.....

He arrived on the 11pm flight. As he came onto the streets of New Orleans, he hailed a cab. Paying the cabby triple the wage, he asked him to wait one block up the street. Heading up to the door, he knocked as a man answered.

"Can I help you?"

"You can, are you Fredrick Rodwell?"

"I am. Why?"

Pulling out his silencer he shot two rounds into him, Mofia style. Carefully shutting the door, he turned walked back up the street and got back into the cab.

"Take me back to the Airport please."

...............................................................................................................................

Earling that morning, Flack was awakened with a call.

"Hello."

"Hello son. I've got that information you needed on Fredrick Rodwell. I have a messenger delivering it to you now. I hope you understand how hard this information was to get, but I hope it helps you."

"I'm sure it will dad. Give mom my love."

"I will son."

Hanging up the phone, Flack got dressed and waited for the messenger to arrive.

......................................................................................................................................

Meanwhile.....

Mac recieves a phone call.

"Hello."

"Mac, it's Danny. You know that Rodwell case we were working on?"

"Yeah, what's the matter with it Danny?"

"It seems we can close it. Someone must have put a hit out on Fredrick. He was killed tonight Mafia style, we just recieved the call from New Orleans."

"Hmm...we still can't close the case Danny. We can't leave it like this. Start working with New Orleans again. Tell them to keep us updated on the case and that we will work it from this end."

"Okay Mac. I'll do that."

"Good. I'll be in shortly."

"Okay Mac, see ya soon."

Hanging up the phone, Danny called back New Orleans Police.

"Mac, is everything okay?"

"It is love. Go back to sleep. I have to go in to the office."

"Is it that case?"

"It is. It seems someone put a hit on Rodwell, so I have to work with New Orleans Police to try and figure out who killed him."

Kissing his wife good bye, he headed out.

.........................................................................................................................

Meanwhile.....

Flack recieved the envelope from the messenger, thanked him and opened it. As he read it over he was shocked to find out that Angell's friend had ties to the Mafia. Thinking to himself he said....

"Hmmm...seems Thomas isn't as clean as he appears."

Knowing he couldn't leave Angell alone. He knew he had no choice but to call Mac with the information.

"Mac....it's Don. I have some very intersting information for you."

"I'll be right there Don. You caught me just before I headed in to see Danny."

"Danny!!Why?"

"It seems someone killed Rodwell. They put a hit on him, he was found dead this morning in his home."

"Christ Mac.....I think I know who may have done it."

"Who Don?"

"Thomas, Angell's friend. I have all the information here for you. See you when you get here."

Hanging up the phone, Don went to Angell.

As Don carefully woke her, she moaned in pain.

"Jennifer!! I need you to wake up. Are you okay?"

"I'm just in pain Don, my stomach feels like it's on fire."

"I know Jen, they told you that would happen, I'll get you your meds."

When Don came back, Jennifer was sitting up.

"Here baby, take these. Then I need to talk to you."

"About what?"

"Your friend Thomas. Mac and Danny are on their way over. I have some very interesting information on him."

What kind of information Don?"

Passing her the file she began to read it.

"Oh my God. Please tell me this information isn't true."

"I can't Jen. It came from a very reliable source."

"That's who you were talking to earlier, wasn't it?"

"It was Jen. I'm sorry I couldn't tell you sooner, I just wanted to be sure first."

Nodding her head she understood, she laid back down.

"Are you going to be okay baby?"

"Yeah. It's just such a shock. He's one of my best friends."

"There's a little more to tell you Jen. It seems someone put a hit on Rodwell, he's dead."

Looking into Don's eyes, she knew what he was thinking.

"You think it was Thomas, don't you?"

"I do Jen. More in likely he did it to protect you, but either way it's murder."

"I know that Don. I'm really tired. I just want to rest."

Kissing her sweetly, he helped her get comfortable and fall back into sleep.

*Knock, knock*

Answering the door, Don let Mac and Danny in.

"Hey Don, how's Angell feeling?" asked Danny.

"She's pretty sick Danny. I just gave her meds, she's sleeping again."

"I'm going to need you to wake her Don. I need some questions answered."

"I know that Mac, just don't upset her. That's something I won't allow you to do."

Passing the file to Mac, they sat down and went through it together, before waking Angell.

................................................................................................

Meanwhile.....

In New Orleans,

"Bring Thomas to me now."

"Yes boss. He's waiting in the lounge."

When Thomas walked into the bosses office, he knew it wasn't good.

"You wanted to see me sir?"

"I did Thomas. You've caused me alot of trouble, because of your carelessness tonight, I now have not only the New Orleans Police on my ass, but Detectives from NY too."

"I'm sorry sir, I don't understand."

"You put a hit on Rodwell without my permission. You caused the Police to investigate me. Me!! Now I have to deal with this situation."

As Thomas stared in fear, he seen the gun fire as he fell to the floor.

"Get rid of him. Take him somewhere he'll never be found. Don't screw this up, we have enough problems. Merrick, I want you to write the note, just have it say he left town on business and nothing else, understand?"

"Yes boss, I'll get right on it. What are you going to do?"

"I'm going to get the New Orleans Police off my back."

"How you going to do that?"

"Why all the questions? Do you know what happens to people who ask to many questions?" they die."

Nodding that he understood, he left the room to plant the note in Thomas's home.

.....................................................................................................................................................

New Orleans

When Merrick left the house, his phone rang.

"Hello."

"Agent Spade, where the hell are you?"

"Are you insane? You trying to get me killed? Where the hell do you think I am?"

"Don't tell me you are working the Rodwell case?"

"I am you idiot. They just killed Thomas Wright."

"You're kidding, where the's body?"

"How the hell do I know. I wasn't put in charge of disposing of it, some guy named Edison was."

"You know we have no case without that body?"

"Of course I know that. You know? Sometimes I swear you are trying to get me killed."

Hanging up his phone, he got into the car and headed over to Thomas's to see if he could find any evidence that would tie into the case.

...............................................................................................................

Meanwhile....

Back in New York.

"Okay Don, you need to wake Angell."

"I'm already awake," she said.

Walking over to the couch she sat beside Don, as he wrapped his arm around her. Seeing the possession in his eyes. Mac knew they were more then co-workers.

"This isn't going to interfere with our case, is it?"

"No Mac. We are both mature enough to know how to handle ourselves."

"Okay. Angell! Can you tell me everything you know about Thomas? I need to know all of it."

"You mean from childhood up?"

"No. Just from New Orleans."

"Well...when I arrived Thomas seemed fine. He was himself for about the first week, then he changed."

"Changed how?"

"Well for one, he became very secretive. Kind of nervous I guess. There were times he wouldn't even leave the house. He'd just sit in his den looking over papers."

"Do you know what kind of papers?"

"No. Everytime I walked in he put them in a drawer."

"Was it kept locked with a key?"

"I don't know Mac. I didn't snoop. I trusted him."

"How about visitors? Family, friends?"

"Just Fredrick. He'd always come over and they would end up in a fight."

"Did you here anything they said?"

"No Mac. Just the one conversation I told you about with the Mafia."

"What are you thinking Mac?"

Looking at Danny he said...."I'm just wondering if Thomas's house is still in one piece, or if it's been ramsacked yet. Angell, did he give you a key?"

"You know what, he did."

Getting up she went to her purse to get the key.

"Here you go Mac. But I don't know why you'd need it."

Just then Danny said...

"Does this mean we are going to New Orleans?"

"We are Danny. You and I leave in the morning."

"Oh come on Mac. You can't leave Stella and the kids."

"Listen Don. This case needs to be solved. I have my suspicions that there are already Agents asigned to the case."

"What makes you think that?"

"The lack of answers to the questions I asked. They are being very secretive, and I think it's time we find out why."

Getting up Mac told Angell to take care. As he opened the door he said...

"I'll keep the undercover units on your apartment Don. I have a feeling once we get to New Orleans trouble is going to hit NY."

"What about Sinclair?"

"What about him?"

"What if New Orleans call him."

"They won't."

"Why won't they Mac?"

"Because whether New Orleans likes it or not. We are going to get them to work with us to solve this case. I have a feeling we know as much as they do, and they are going to need our information to help bring closure to this case."

"I hope you are right Mac. Don't get your asses killed over there."

"Have a little faith Don. Just take care of Angell. We'll call you from New Orleans."

When Mac and Danny had left, Angell knew what Don was thinking.

"You want to go, don't you Don?"

"I do. But you are more important then New Orleans."

"Why don't you go Don. I'll be fine."

"No. I won't leave you Jen. You need to understand that I protect what is mine. But I have an idea."

Picking up the phone, Don called his dad.

"Hello."

"Hi dad. I have a huge favour to ask."

"What is it now son?"

"Remember when we discussed the case. The one you got me the information on?"

"I do son, what about it?"

"I need to go to New Orleans with Mac and Danny. But I need someone to watch Jennifer. She just got out of the Hospital from being poisoned."

"I take it this is the Detective that's in trouble."

"Yes dad. She means alot to me."

"Just how much son?"

Looking at Angell, he said to his dad.....

"Alot dad, I love her."

Silence could be heard through the phone line.

"Dad, you still there?"

"I am son. I just had no idea. Why didn't you tell me sooner?"

"It just wasn't the right time dad. Please, I need someone to protect her while I'm gone."

Sighing into the phone, he said....

"Bring her over son."

"Thank you dad."

Hanging up the phone, he helped Angell dress, grabbed her medication, bag, and helped her into the car. When they arrived Don Sr. noticed the uncover units around his house.

"Get rid of them son. They will do more harm then good."

"Dad, she needs to be protected. Once I get to New Orleans, it could bring trouble here."

"You let me worry about that son. I have people to protect her. You just go do what you have to do."

Looking over at Angell, he seen how ill she looked.

"Come with me young lady, we'll get you settled."

Once they had in her bed, Don's dad left the room.

"Don't cry Jennifer, I'll be home as soon as I can."

"I know Don. But I can't help but worry, I love you."

Taking her by her hair, he wrapped it around his fingers, and kissed her passionately.

"I love you to Jennifer. I promise, I'll be back before you know it."

Leaving her before he changed his mind, he dismissed the Officers, turned and said...

"Keep her safe dad. Promise me."

"I promise son, she'll be safe."

Getting into the car Don drove as fast as he could to the Airport.

When he arrived, he grabbed a ticket, and found Mac and Danny.

"Don? What are you doing here? Where's Angell?"

"She's with my dad Danny. I'm coming with you."

"Flight 207 to New Orleans now boarding at Gate 2."

Knowing it was to late for Mac to talk Don out of coming. The three of them headed to Gate 2 and boarded their flight.

...........................................................................................

Once they were on the plane, Danny asked....

"Umm Mac. What about Sinclair?"

"Don't worry about it Danny. I'll handle Sinclair."

.........................................................................................

NYPD

Sheldon was closing a case when Sinclair walked in.

"Hawkes. Where is Mac?"

"Umm...he had to go out on a case with Flack and Messer."

"What case? I didn't hear anything about a case."

"Oh. It's a case that's been on going. They may not be back for hours."

As Sinclair raised his eyebrow, Sheldon hoped to hell he was buying it.

"When they get back, tell Mac I need to see him."

"Sure. I'll do that."

With Sinclair gone. Sheldon ran down to see Adam.

"Listen Adam, I need the number where I can find Mac."

"You're kidding right? They are in the air by now."

"I don't care. Try and reach him."

Putting through the call to Mac's cell. Adam hoped to hell they weren't to far from NY yet.

..................................................................................................................

Feeling the vibe of his cell phone, Mac picked it up.

"Hello."

"Mac, it's Sheldon. We have a problem. Sinclair is looking for you. I've distracted him for now, but he's going to be back."

"Okay Sheldon. Don't worry, I'll handle it from here."

Hanging up the phone, Mac called Sinclair.

"Sinclair."

"Yeah, it's Mac Taylor calling, you needed to speak wth me."

"Where the hell are you Mac? And where the hell is Flack and Messer?"

"They are with me. We are on our way to New Orleans, I have a break in a case I've been working on."

"Taylor!! You better not be talking about that Rodwell case. I recieved a call from the New Orleans Police Chief, you're not going to get a very warm welcome there. They don't want you anywhere near this case."

Just at that moment the phone line went dead.

"Taylor. Taylor!!!!"

Getting no response, Sinclair hung up his phone and booked a flight to New Orleans.

..................................................................................................................................................

When they arrived in New Orleans, they headed right to Thomas's house. As they arrived they noticed two things. One, there was an unmarked FBI unit in front of his house, and two, there was already someone in the house.

"Mac, I didn't know the FBI were informed of this?"

"They weren't Don. Let's go."

Drawing their weapons, they opened the door moving with caution. As they neared the den, they noticed the suspect placing something on the desk.

"FREEZE, DON"T MOVE," yelled Mac.

Looking up Merrick seen the three with their weapons pointed at him.

"Listen, I'm a Police Officer, don't shoot for christ sakes. Check my back pocket."

As Danny checked, he found the suspects ID. Opening it it read...

New Orleans Police Department.

"It's okay Mac. He's a cop."

Putting their weapons away, Mac asked....

"Is that unmarked unit out there yours?"

"What unmarked unit?"

"The one that's outside this window."

"No. Listen, who the hell are you people?"

"I'm Detective Mac Taylor from NY, and this is Det. Danny Messer, and Don Flack."

"Wait a minute. You are the ones that have been giving us trouble from NY."

"We haven't been giving you trouble. We have interest in this case, as it involves one of my Officers."

"Your Officers, we've had no Officers here from NY."

Mac knew he was dealing with someone who wasn't very capable. But what bothered him even more, was the fact that he hadn't gotten himself killed yet.

"Listen, why don't we have a chat before those FBI guys get in here and take over? I see it as, you can allow us to help you solve the case, and make your department look good. Or we can go back to NY, and allow the FEDS to take your credit."

Looking at Mac, Merrick could tell he was dealing with someone who had alot of knowledge. Extending his hand to Mac he said...

"Okay. I'm Merrick Johnson, what have you got?"

Danny tried desperately not to laugh.

"Listen Merrick I don't think it's a good idea to talk here. I have the feeling this place is bugged. Just let me look for something, and we'll be out of here."

As Mac made his way to the desk, he picked open the locked drawer.

"What the hell are you doing?"

"I'm getting the information that will most likely crack this case for you."

Pulling out the file, Mac noticed the letter on the desk.

"I suppose you wrote this?"

"I did."

"Then I take it you are on the inside of this Mafia gang, and that is a stolen unmarked unit out......."

Just as Mac was about to say his last word, the shooting started. Hiding the file in his jacket, they all began shooting at the two suspects killing them.

"Damn it Mac, where the hell did they get an unmarked FBI unit?"

"I'm not sure Danny. But something about this case isn't right, Merrick call it in."

Picking up his cell, he began dialing.

When the other Officers arrived on scene, they asked Merrick what went down, while Mac, Danny, and Flack headed out to the undercover unit.

"Taylor!!!"

"Christ sakes, it's Sinclair Mac."

"I can see that Danny."

Continuing to the car while Sinclair was ranting in his ear, he opened the trunk and found two FBI agents inside dead.

"Well that explains the unmarked unit Mac."

"What the hell is going on Taylor?"

"Listen Sinclair, this case is about be cracked wide open, and I have no intention of leaving it now. So either help us or go home."

"You're pushing it Taylor. When I get you back to NY, I'll be sure to....."

"EXCUSE ME...yelled the New Orleans Sergeant. Can someone tell me what is going on?"

Mac looked at the Sergeant, and realized there was something not right about him, or the four cops he had with him. Not wanting to give him to much information he said...

"I believe Officer Merrick can explain it to you, Sinclair, let's go."

"You just can't leave like that."

"We can, and we are Sergeant."

Ignoring the Sergeant Mac and his team continued to walk.

"Now you listen to me . I want the file."

"What file, I don't what you're talking about."

"You have five seconds to give me the file, and get your asses back to NY, or I file a complaint against your whole NY Dept."

Mac knew he couldn't give up that file, so he switched them, handing the Rodwell file to the Sergeant.

"Now get back on the fastest flight to NY, you're not welcome here."

Getting into the rental car Sinclair realized that was to easy.

"What did you give him Mac?"

"I gave him the file Sinclair, that's what he wanted."

"The truth Mac."

"I gave him the Rodwell file. I have the file on the Mafia inside my jacket. That Sergeant isn't going to realize it till we are least back in NY. He has enough explaining to do with those two dead FBI agents."

Sighing deep Sinclair said....

"Why is it you always feel the need to bring trouble home to NY Mac?"

.........................................................................................................................................

When they boarded the flight, Mac opened the file and began to read.

"Mac, anything?"

"Alot Danny. Seems that that Sergeant we met is on the Mafia payroll along with several Officers in New Orleans."

"What about that Merrick guy, is he on there?"

"No. But the name of the the boss is Michel Mahonie. It seems he has dealings in almost all of New Orleans. According to this, Thomas has written that this Michel owns over 90% of the buisnesses in New Orleans, and has over 60 men working for him as collection agents."

"Yeah, but that doesn't explain why this Michel guy killed Thomas."

"I have a feeling it has to do with the fact that he killed Rodwell. According to the file Rodwell was his right hand man, he was the one who kept the Special Agents away from Michel and his dealings. With Rodwell now gone, Michel is panicking that FBI is going to be on his case."

"I still don't get how Merrick ties into this, he seemed almost lost with this case."

"I have a feeling Merrick is more then a New Orleans Police Officer, and he was playing us."

"If that's the case Mac, than Merrick's now in danger."

Looking at Danny, Mac knew he was right.

.........................................................................................................

New Orleans....

"Did you find Merrick? I knew there was something strange about him when he joined our Dept."

"No Sergeant, but Michel is waiting on you, he's in your office."

The Sergeant was worried, for he knew once Michel found out Merrick was working for the FBI undercover as a Police Officer, shit was going to hit the fan.

........................................................................................

Meanwhile....

Merrick knew there was no way for him to get out of town by plane, bus, or train. For Michel had all those areas covered by dirty cops now.

"Christ...how the hell am I going to get to New York. I don't even have a cell phone to call Headquarters."

Hiding in the shadows, avoiding the lights of New Orleans, he looked for a way out. Nearing a Hotel he seen a couple getting into their car.

"Excuse me. I'm wondering if you can help me. I need a ride to the outskirts of New Orleans, are you heading that way?"

"Listen Mr. Even if we were, we don't give rides to strangers."

"I'm an FBI Agent, here's my badge."

Showing them the badge, they looked at it carefully.

"Okay. We can take you as far as the outskirts, after that you are on your own."

"Thank you. Umm, one more thing, I need to hide under your back seat."

"Excuse me?"

"I know this sounds really ridiculous, but there are going to be Police blocking the exits out of here, so I need to hide."

"You're scaring us mister, just what are you trying to pull."

"Look, I swear to you. I'm not pulling anything. Please don't ask questions, or you'll put yourselves in more danger."

"What do you think Melissa?"

"I think we should help him. We can't leave him here."

Lifting up their back seat, they helped Merrick climb in. Then getting into their car, they began to drive. When they neared the outskirts of New Orleans, they seen the road blocks.

"Good evening sir, may we ask you to pop your trunk please. We are looking for a dangerous criminal."

"Sure Officer."

Trying to be as cool as he could, he popped the trunk. After checking inside the Officers released their car.

"Okay you can go. Thanks for visiting New Orleans."

Driving off into the night, they told Merrick it was safe to come out.

..................................................................................................................................

When they arrived back in NY, they headed home for a bit to see there families.

"We meet at my office at 11am, that's four hours from now. Sinclair that goes for you too, you're involved in this now."

"Yeah, yeah Mac. I'll be sure to tell the Justice Dept. to prepare for a war."

Walking away in anger, Sinclair knew damn well that this case was going to blow wide open, right in the center of NYPD.

When Mac arrived at home, he found his Claire bear, playing with baby bear.

"Hey, there's my Claire bear, and Gary bear."

"Daddy, you're home. We missed you so much."

"I missed you too Claire bear."

Picking up Gary, he held him tightly against him, inhaling his baby fresh scent, feeling the little heartbeats against his own heart, letting him know that there was innocence and love in a world full of evil and hate.

When Stella came out of the kitchen she seen Mac rocking side to side with li'l Gary.

"Mac...you're back. Did you get everything settled then?"

"No love, I have to back to the office, we are going to be working the case from home."

"Mac, you have that look."

"What look Stel?"

"The look that says the kids and I are in lockdown."

Walking over to his wife, he wrapped his fingers in her hair, neared her lips and whispered....

"I promise you love, this case will end before it even starts."

Touching his heated lips to hers, he kissed her again one last time before heading back to the office.

When Flack arrived at his dads, he went straight to Jennifer.

"Jenn, Jenn, wake up baby, I'm home."

Slowly opening her eyes, she awoke into Flacks baby blues.

"Did you get them Don, did you close the case?"

"No, I have to meet the team back at NYPD. We have the file we need, and there is going to be alot of trouble coming are way. Dad, I need you to be extra careful, maybe there is somewhere safe you can take Jenn till this is over."

"She's safe son. They don't know she is here. You need to stop worrying. Just concentrate on the case, Jennifer will be fine."

Nodding to his dad, he gave Jennifer one last kiss, and headed back to meet Mac and the others at the station.

........................................................................................................................

Meanwhile.....

Merrick had finally made it to NY and a phone. Picking up the phone to call Headquarter's, he wondered just how many agents he could trust there. Looking to the phone, and back to the phone book. He looked up the address for NYPD instead. Once he found it, he headed over to see Taylor, for he knew, he was the only one, he could trust, for now.

Mac, Sinclair and the team were sitting around the table.

"Adam, I want you take these numbers, and get an adddress off one. You are going to be looking for Michel Mahonie."

"I'll get right on it Mac."

Don I want you to have your men watch the Airports, trains, and buses that come into NY, photocopy these pictures that Thomas took of Michel, and several of his affiliates. Get your Officers use to their faces. This way when they arrive in NY, we'll be ready for them.

Nodding his head, Don headed out to copy the pictures, and brief several Officers he knew could be trusted.

When Mac and Danny walked down the hall to the lab, they seen Merrick.

"Mac, Mac, I need your help."

"Christ Merrick you okay man?"

"Yeah. Though it took hours to get the hell out of New Orleans in one piece."

"You look like you've been through hell."

"I have. Listen Mac, do you have a place where I can clean myself up?"

"Sure. Danny take him down to the locker room, and get him the extra suit in my locker, he looks about my size."

"Sure Mac. Come on Merrick, it's this way."

As they walked down to the locker area, Danny asked.

"Is it true you are an FBI Agent?"

"Yeah Danny. Problem now is, I don't know who to trust in my department."

"Hmm...I guess it would be. Anyways, here is the locker area, and here is Mac's suit."

"Nice."

"Yeah. That's Mac for you. He likes to keep the professional look most times. He used to wear a tie, but Stella kinda stripped him of it. Now he wears his shirt unbuttoned. She kinda losened him up over the years. Now they are happily married with two kids."

"Stella...why does that name sound familuar?"

"I'm not sure, she's a Detective here, but now with the new baby she stays at home."

"Wait a minute...Stella Bonasera?"

"Yeah. Only now it's Stella Taylor. How do you know her?"

"A friend of mine, investigated her for possible involvement with a case in Philli."

"Hah. I know Valens, he gave her a hard time at the begining, but then we ended up working the case together."

"He's the one. He also mentioned she was very beautiful, with long curly hair, and the prettiest eyes."

"She still is. I think that's why Mac finally came to his senses, and married her."

"How long have they married?"

Just as Danny was about to answer, Don came in.

"Let's go guys, some of Michel's men have been seen arriving at the Airport."

"Is Michel with them?"

"Not that they could see. So let's go."

Heading out they ran into Mac.

"Where are you going ?"

"Some of Michel's men have been spotted, we need to get down the the Airport."

Mac thought about it for a minute.

"It's seems to easy Don. I think maybe you should take Sinclair, while Merrick, Danny and I stay here."

"What!! Oh no Mac. I'm not taking Sinclair, forget that."

"Then take Danny, I'll stay here with Merrick and Sinclair."

"Fine. Let's go Danny."

........................................................................................................

Meanwhile....

Michel had the home address of Mac Taylor. He had time to do a little investigating on him, and what he found, he knew would help him.

Arriving, he seen the undercover units surrounding their home. Driving past them, he knew he would have to bide his time, till he could get into the Taylor home, and take what Mac valued most, his family.

Back at home Stella realized she was down to her last can of formula.

"This can't be right. I thought for sure I got Mac to grab me another case last week," she spoke to herself.

Knowing she needed formula for Gary, she knew she had no choice but to break Mac's rule, dress the children and go to the Pharmacy.

.......................................................................................................................

Meanwhile.....

Flack, Danny, and some of the Officers had arrested four of Michel's men as they arrived at the Airport. Once they had them back at NYPD the questions started.

"Listen, we know Michel is here, so give him up."

"I want a lawyer."

Danny was getting pissed. He knew damn well if they got a lawyer, they'd never get anything from them.

"Danny, let's go. Chiver, Grands, get these guys to holding."

Walking down towards Mac's office, Danny asked Flack....

"I don't know Flack. I think Mac is right, this was way to easy. I'm really worried about Stel and the kids. I think we should get Mac and go check on them."

As they looked for Mac, he was no where to be found, either was Merrick for that matter, or Sinclair.

"Where the hell is everyone?"

"I don't know Danno, but none of this is right."

Searching the station they could find no trace of them.

...........................................................................................................

Meanwhile.....

Michel waited patiently around the corner. He knew that Mac's family would eventually have to come out, call it instinct, but he knew.

"Mommy, I don't wanna go out today. I not feel well."

"I know Claire bear, and mommy's sorry, but I have to get formula for Gary bear."

She could feel her daughter was quite fevered, even with the childrens Motrin in her. But she also knew how important and busy Mac was with this case. Strapping the kids into the car, she shut the door, and got in the front pulling the belt across.

Then putting the key into the ignition, she started the car.

As she pulled out of the driveway, she was stopped by the undercovers.

"Excuse me Stella, we have strict orders from Mac ,that you are not leave."

"I know that Thompson, but I need formula for the baby."

"Just let me give Mac a call."

Trying his cell, he could get no answer.

"Hmm...okay, we'll follow behind you."

"That's fine, I'll go slow," she laughed.

As they neared the corner, and Stella pulled through the intersection, three vehicles stopped dead center in the middle of the road blocking the undercover units.

"Move your cars, let's go."

As the Officers watched, they seen the black sedan turn, following Stella. Picking up his radio, Thompson went to call it in.

*Bang, bang.*

..............................................................................................................

Meanwhile Don and Danny were driving towards the Taylor home, when they seen Stella's car pull into the Pharmacy.

"Don, isn't that Stella's car?"

Pulling into the Pharmacy, Don yelled Stella's name.

"Stel....Stel, what are you doing out of the house?"

Looking at Don, she seen the black sedan speeding right towards Don and Danny.

"LOOK OUT....."

To late, the sedan nicked them both stunning them. Pulling to a stop, Michel got out pointing a gun at Stella.

"GET IN, NOW!!!!"

Trying to get back into her car, Michel pulled her by the hair, causing Claire to scream in fear.

"Mommy....mommy, don't hurt my mommy."

As Flack tried to reach for his gun, Michel seen him from the corner of his eye, and as he went to shoot Flack, someone kicked the gun out of his hand.

Tackling Michel to the ground, Mac gripped him into a neck lock.

"One wrong move Michel, and I'll kill you with one little twist, of your God damn neck."

Michel was having trouble catching his breath, as his eyes began buldging out of head.

"Check my men Merrick."

As Merrick checked on Flack and Danny, he could tell they weren't hurt to badly. He was more concerned with Michel changing color.

"Mac, ease up, you're choking him."

Turning Michel onto his stomach, Mac released his hold, and cuffed him. As he bent down towards him he whispered.....

"Make one move, and I'll kill you. Count yourself lucky that Merrick was here, or you'd be dead right now."

Walking over to his men, Mac asked....

"You guys going to be okay?"

"Yeah Mac, we're fine. How's Claire, she was screaming."

As Mac looked at his daughter, he could see her tears, and her fear.

"Claire bear, it's okay Daddy's here."

Picking her up in his arms, he could feel her fever.

"Stella...she's burning up."

"I know Mac. I gave her some Motrin, How did you know we were here?"

"Merrick and I have been watching the house all day. We had a feeling this was all to easy, when Danny and Flack left for the Airport."

Just then the FBI pulled up.

"Merrick, you're okay."

"Davenport, what are you doing here?"

"We came to get the suspect."

Interfering Mac angerly said....

"Now you listen to me. My suspect isn't going anywhere. He stays with me in my custody, until you or your Agents bring me papers."

"This is out of you hands Taylor, your job is done, " yelled Davenport.

"Like hell it is. You are in my City, and Michel and his men go no where till I get papers, so move."

Pushing Davenport aside, Mac lead Michel to his car.

"Mac...we'll take Stella and the kids for you."

"Thanks Danny. Merrick let's go."

As Merrick walked towards Mac, he heard Davenport yell....

"If you go along with this Merrick, I'll see you're fired."

Ignoring Davenport, Merrick got into the car with Mac and Michel.

......................................................................................................................

When they got down to the holding cells, they noticed how quiet it was, and the cell door was open.

"What's going on Mac?"

"I'm not sure Merrick. Let's get him locked up."

Once they had Michel locked up, Mac put the jail keys in his pocket. Drawing their weapons, they began walking through the hall.

"Shhh...listen, you here that?"

"I do, it sounds like someone pounding on that door."

As Merrick aimed his gun, Mac pulled open the closet and found Sinclair, all tied up.

"Sinclair.....what the hell happened?"

Pullling off the gag, he said....

"Two God damn FBI Agents came in here, they took the four we had in holding. Then the bastards tied me up, and locked me in here. Did you get Michel?"

"Yeah, he's in holding."

"Are you sure the Agents left the Station?"

"I'm positive Mac. They said they were looking for you, cause you had Michel in your sites."

"Okay. I have the only key for the cell. So Merrick and I will stay with Michel. You go inform some officers to keep a look out and prepare for a fight, when they return."

"Where's Messer and Flack?"

"They are with Stella and the kids. Michel tried to kill them."

"Are they alright?"

"Claire's a little shaken up, but they'll be fine."

After Sinclair left the holding area, he informed the Officers to be ready for a fight."

...................................................................................................................................

Meanwhile....

Don and Danny had Stella and the kids settled.

"How's her fever Stella?"

"It's gone down Danny. Did you turn on the alarm?"

"I did, and all the doors and windows are secure."

"Okay. I just heard from Mac. It seems to FBI Agents helped those four idiots escape. Mac and Merrick just let Sinclair out of a closet, all tied up and gagged."

"Christ. All this for a file?"

"Yeah. Mac has it locked away in his office. They are all ready down there, for the shit to hit. He told us to be ready too. More in likely they will split up. One Agent will come here with two of the goons, and the other two will go after Mac."

"Great. Did you check on your dad and Jennifer?"

"I called him. They're ready on that end. Dad gave Jennifer one of his guns."

"So she's feeling better?"

"Yeah, my dad said she was up walking around, and eating."

"Okay guys. I'm going to make some lunch, coming."

"Yeah, Stel."

"Mommy, I have peanut butter and jelly?"

"Of course you can, with a glass of milk."

Picking up Gary, they all headed into the kitchen.

"Hold on Stel. Let me check outside the window."

Seeing no one lurking, Danny called the dogs, and had them guard the kitchen door.

"Sit. Stay."

As the dogs obeyed, Danny passed them a biscuit.

...................................................................................................................

While Mac and his assigned Officers were ready and waiting. Danny and Don were watching the house with the dogs.

"What do you think Danny?"

"I don't know man, seems to quiet for me. I can't even here anything. Almost like a dead silence."

"I know, I hear that too."

"King, Kong, sniff."

As the dogs sniffed around the house, they could smell smoke. As they started barking, Danny and Flack ran into the den and seen the four coming down the chimney.

"Wake the girls Don, and get them out of here."

"No way Messer, this could be a trap. Let's just put it out ourselves."

"Are you going to climb the flue, cause I'm not."

Running upstairs, they woke Stella and informed her what was happening.

"Stel...wake up Stel. I need you to get Gary dressed, we have to move now."

"Why, what's the matter?"

"They're here, they've started a fire in the chimney. Is there a way out of here, we can't be seen?"

"Yeah, the basement, Mac put in a trap door. It leads under and out into the street."

"Okay, let's get the kids dressed, and get out of here."

As they walked towards the kids room, they could smell the smoke.

"Oh God, hurry."

Once they had the kids and Gary bundled up, they headed downstairs to the basement exit. Removing the slat of wood, they began crawling through, one by one, putting the dogs first.

Once they were out on the street, they seen a cab. Flagging it down, they got in.

"1442 West Avenue, hurry."

When they arrived at Don's father place, he was waiting with the door opened.

"What's going on son?"

"They started a fire in the Taylor home, I've called the Fire Dept. They are on their way. It was a trap, so I need to bring them here, and get into the NYPD to see Mac."

"Well bring them in."

"Hello Stella love, give me little Gary."

"Thanks Don."

"Stella...is everything okay?"

"It will be Angell, do you have a place I can get the girls settled?"

"Sure, they can have my room. This way."

Once the girls were settled, Danny and Don headed over to NYPD.

....................................................................................................................

Meanwhile....

When the Fire Dept. arrived on scene, they found the fire had already been put out and the place had been ransacked.

"Christ, what the hell happened here?"

"I don't know. Looks like a robbery, call NYPD."

While the EMT called NYPD, two undercover officers walked in.

"Excuse me, we are with the FBI, where are the people that were in this house?"

"I don't know. There was no one here when we arrived."

"Where the hell did they go boss?"

"How the hell should I know. And don't call me boss. Your boss is the idiot that got himself caught. Now start searching.

"Yes Sir."

As they looked around, Davenport called Westfield to update him.

while DavenPort and his goon were still snooping, they didn't hear Flack and Danny pull up.

"Don, you see that?"

Looking towards the unmarked unit, they knew that someone was in the Taylor home. Drawing their weapons, they entered quietly through the front door.

"Come on, it has to be here."

"I'm telling you Sir, it's not here. He must have it with him."

"Fine. Let's go."

As DavenPort and his goon neared the door, Don and Danny yelled....

"FREEZE, DON'T MOVE, PUT YOUR WEAPONS DOWN, AND HANDS WHERE WE CAN SEE THEM."

Raising their hands in the air, Don and Danny cuffed them.

"Let's go, we have nice 6x6 waiting for you."

Putting them into the car, they headed back to NYPD.

"You know you are going down for this. I'm FBI for Christ sakes."

"Yeah, sure. And my partner here is really PeeWee Herman in disguise."

When they pulled up to NYPD, Merrick was waiting for them.

"We've caught two of them."

"God damn it Merrick, tell them who I am."

"I don't know who you are. I thought you were FBI, but I was mistaken. I've already called Headquarters, and they are on there way down."

Taking them to holding, they put them in seperate cells.

"You idiots, can't do anything right can you."

"Sorry Boss. You didn't tell us how smart they are down here."

"Shut the hell up Reese, or I'll kill you in prison."

"I'. sorry boss. I'm sorry, please don't kill me."

"Oh, shut up. And as for you DavenPort, what the hell is your excuse."

"Excuse. You're kidding me right. I told you not to come down to NY. I warned you, but no, you just had to have that file. Now look at us, we are stuck in here, and stupid Westfield and his two goons are sure to be caught. You just wouldn't listen. Maybe I should kill you in Prison."

"That's going to be kind of hard. Just how many criminals have you put in those prisons. You'll long be in your grave, before I see mine."

"Oh fuck you, and shut the hell up."

....................................................................................................................

Meanwhile.....

Westfield was watching the station carefully.

"What are we going to do Westfield?"

"There's only one thing to do. GO back to the boat, and get the missle."

"Oh...no way. That's the bosses secret. How'd you know about the missle?"

"It's my job to know. Just do it."

While they left to get the missle, Westfield waited patiently for their return.

"I don't know about this George. That Mac guy already has the file. I'm sure he knows all about that missle arms trade, for the drugs. I think we should get the hell out. Turn ourselves in and tell all. Leave Westfield to handle himself."

"Sounds good to me. But how the hell are we going to get into the station, when Westfield is watching it?"

"We'll call from down the street. We'll tell them where they can find it, and we'll be set free."

Hearing a sound, they turned and seen Westfield.

*Bang,Bang*

"Stupid asses, you want something done, you must do it yourself."

Getting in the car, Westfield drove to the boat to get the missle.

When Westfield returned to the Police Station. He seen the FBI Agents had arrived. Quickly setting up the missles launcher, he placed the missle in it, and waited. He knew he only had one shot to hit the station in the right spot. Otherwise he'd fail.

...............................................................................................................

Inside Mac was introduced to the two new Agents, who handed him the paper work. '

"Are our prisoners ready to go?"

"We only have Michel, and two of his partners. Your Agent Westfield let out the other two, and they haven't been seen since."

"Jusy how much about this case do you know Detective?"

"I know that Michael traded one of the mini missle launchers for billions in cocane. Problem now is, who has the damn missle."

"My guess. That would be Westfield."

"If you are right Merrick, for all we know he could be planning an escape for them right now. Which means my station is the target."

"What do you want us to do Mac?"

"Clear the building, have all the workers sent home, everyone. The only ones to stay will be our group."

"Okay Mac, we're on it."

While they left to clear the building, Mac and the two Agents decided to use the holding area as a bunk.

"We should be safe down here when that missle fires. The only problem I can forsee, is us being blocked in down here. Which means no escape till we are rescued by Troops."

"That's fine with us. As long as Westfield can't get to Michel, we'll be fine."

Once everyone had been sent home, Flack, Danny, and Merrick started bring down food and drinks from the beverage machine.

"I think we'll be okay Mac, we have enough to last a few days. Are you sure you don't want us looking for him?"

"No Danny, he's already here, he's been here all along. I can't see any problem now. As long as no one enters the station, we will be fine."

"Ummm...one problem Mac, where is Sinclair, Sheldon and Sid?"

Just as they were about to race out to find them, they heard the hissing sound of a missle.

"Get down, everyone get down."

*Blaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaassssssssssssssssssst*

Everything came crumbling down, dust and debris went flying everywhere.

"God Mac, what about....."

"I don't know Danny, all we can do is hope they made it out."

......................................................................................................

Meanwhile, outside in the car, the fuel from the missle had set Westfield and the car on fire, through his screams you could smell death.

Over at Don Sr's home he asked...

"Would you girls like anything to eat?"

"No thanks sir, we're fine."

"Then stop calling me sir, you are soon to be my daughter in law."

Stella stared in shock.

"Something I should know Jen?"

Smiling wildly while holding Gary Jr, she said....

"We've kind of come to an understanding. It's been a long time coming. But we finally admited our feelings for one another."

"Congrat's, it's about time. Mac and I always figured there was something there."

While Don Sr flicked through the channels, he seen the news update.

"Today at the NYPD, an unknown assailant fired a missle into the building, causing it to collapse. At this time it is not known if there are any survivors. We have been told by Federal agents, that several Officers, three FBI Agents, four CSI's and one Coroner where inside when the blast happened. The suspect that fired the weapon has been reported dead, by the fumes of the launcher.

We will continue to bring you more information, as we recieve it."

"Oh my God. What are we going to do Don?"

"Get the kids ready, we are going to head down there. I'll grab the keys."

..........................................................................................

Meanwhile.....

Sinclair, Sid and Sheldon were all trapped in the morgue.

"Sheldon, are you okay? Sheldon."

Trying to get over to Sheldon who wasn't moving, Sinclair followed Sid.

"Are you okay Sinclair?"

"No. I busted my leg, and split my head open above my tempo. But I'm more worried about Sheldon, he hasn't answered."

As they neared Sheldon, they seen the beam laying across his chest.

"Oh God, this isn't good."

"Is he breathing?"

As Sid checked for a pulse, he couldn't fine one.

"No, and I can't get to his chest, it looks crushed."

Searching his Morgue, Sid found a oxygen mask, and slipped it on Sheldon's face.

Massaging Sheldon's larynx, he took a breath, and inhaled in pain.

"Shh!!! Try not to talk Sheldon, stay still."

Sid could see the blood coming from Sheldon's mouth, he knew he was in serious trouble if help didn't get to them soon.

"He's not going to make it, is he?"

"He'll make it, stay with us Sheldon, squeeze my hand, that's it, just stay with us, and don't move, or talk."

In the holding cells, Mac checked on Michel and his two men.

"Looks like you two survived. You best hope to hell my three men did, or I'll kill you myself."

Throwing them in some food and water, Mac checked on Merrick, Danny, Flack, and the two Agents.

"Is everyone okay?"

"Yeah, we're fine Mac. I tried Sheldon's cell, but I can't get a signal."

"I know. Just try and stay calm, help is most likely already here."

As they sat down, Mac prayed that his men were still alive.

While everyone waited patiently outside, the Fire and Rescue continued to work on getting through the rubble.

"Damn, this isn't getting us anywhere. It's been over four hours now, they can't have much air left in there."

"Dig deeper, faster, let's go, pick up the pace."

....................................................................................................................................

Meanwhile in the holding cells, Mac and Merrick were the only two still capable of checking on the others. As Mac opened the cell to check on Michel, he found him not breathing.

"Merrick, get in here, Michel's not breathing."

Running into the cell, they stared two man CPR, but with no luck.

"It's been ten minutes Mac, he's gone."

Taking the blanket Mac covered his body, and closed the cell door.

"How are the other two prisoners?"

"Barely alive. I can hear them wheezing away."

"Okay, soak them down with a bottle of water. Get them to take little sips."

While Merrick did that, Mac checked on Danny and Flack.

"How are you two doing?"

"Giving a thumbs up, Mac nodded and sat back down."

"Christ Mac, how much longer can we last?"

"I don't know danny. Michel's already dead, and his two men are on there last breaths. Which means the air is gone. So we all need to sit and not talk."

Downstairs in the Morgue, Sid was gripping Sheldon's hand.

"Come on Sheldon, talk to me. Say something. Sheldon, answer me."

"Mmmm..."

"Good. That's good Sheldon, just hang in there, I'm right there with you."

"Sinclair? You okay."

"I'm fine Sid, I just hope that Mac and his team have some air left in those holding cells."

Sitting all together, Sid had to wonder himself. For he knew the air was thickening everywhere, even in the Morgue.

"I'm going to open the coolers, this will give us more air."

As Sid got up, he heard the deep intake of breath.

"Sheldon....Sheldon, come on Sheldon breathe, breathe Sheldon"

Rushing to the tools, Sid grabbed a scapal and another piece of tube.
Making a slice in Sheldon's throat, he inserted the tube down into his airway.

"Listen to me Sinclair, I need you to breathe for him. Slow, steady breaths into the tube, understand?"

Placing his mouth over the tube, Sinclair began breathing his life into Sheldon.

"Good, I got a pulse. Keep doing that Sinclair, and don't stop. I'll be right back. I'm just going to open the coolers."

After Sid left, Sinclair prayed to himself, that he would be able to keep Sheldon alive.

Back in the Holding Cells, Flack and Danny were trying their best to breathe normal.

"Come on you two, hold on. You can't give up."

"Mac, they don't look good, any water left at all?"

"None Merrick, not so much as a drop."

"Christ, how much longer before they get to us?"

"I don't know. I think we should start moving some of this debris ourselves."

"But isn't that going to bring in more dust, we can hardly breathe now?"

"No. About seven or eight feet above us is a vent. I think we should try and clear it. It leads into the Morgue. Help me move this chair."

As Merrick pulled the chair over, Mac climbed it and unscrewed the vent cover. As he did this, debris came down, followed by cool air.

"You feel that?"

"Yeah, that's air, Danny, Flack, come on. Come on get up, we have some air."

In the Morgue, Sid could have swore he heard Mac's voice.

"MAC....MAC, IS THAT YOU?"

"Sid. Oh God Sid. Is everyone alright over there?"

"No. Sheldon is in bad shape Mac. Really bad shape. His chest was crushed with a beam. Sinclair is breathing life into him. Any idea of when we will be rescued?"

"No. I haven't heard anything, and we can't get an outside line."

"Can you and the boys climb through the vent?"

"I don't think so, there is to much debris in there."

"Okay, I'll try pushing you through some water, and food, just hold on Mac."

"Danny, Flack, how you feeling now?"

"A little better, could do with a drink."

"Sid's trying to pass us through some stuff. Here it comes."

Once all the debris had been pushed through, it was followed by water, and packaged snacks.

"Did you get everything okay Mac?"

"We did Sid. Keep me informed about Sheldon."

"I will Mac, you guys take it easy over there."

"You too."

Outside the crowds were growing, for it had been over 12 hours now, that they were trapped inside, and night was coming.

"Stella, you okay?"

"No. I'm worried Don, really worried, this is taking to long."

"Just try and relax Stella. They'll get there soon."

....................................................................................................

Back in the Morgue, Sid checked on Sinclair and Sheldon.

"How's he doing?"

"I don't know, I can barely get a pulse. What if we try lifting the beam off him?"

"We can't. We don't know how badly crushed he is. By moving the beam we could kill him."

Outside with the rescue TEAM

"Are we making progress yet?" Yelled the Chief.

"We think so, I can see an opening, but we need more man power over here."

"Get team B over here now, let's go hurry."

With the two teams digging away, things were starting to look up.

As the rescuers found an opening, they called inside.

"Hellooooooooooooooooo, is anyone alive in there?"

"You hear that Mac?"

"Yes...we're alive. There are four of us in the Holding area, and there are three in the Morgue. One of my CSI's in the Morgue was crushed under a beam, he's barely clinging to life, you need to get to them first."

"Okay, . You just hang tight, if you have any problems while we are digging in to the Morgue, you yell, and we'll stop. Got it?"

"Got it. Just save my mEn."

While Danny, Flack, Merrick and Mac sat in a corner away from all the debirs, they waited to hear news on Sheldon.

"Sid, do you hear that, someone is coming through the wall."

"I hear it, just keep breathing for Sheldon."

As they knocked in the wall, Sinclair covered Sheldon's body with his, best he could.

"Thank God. We need you over here. One of our men has been crushed with a beam."

As the resuce's looked at the beam, and how it was positioned across Sheldon's chest. They knew it wasn't good.

"What are you waiting for, get it off him."

"We can't."

"What do you mean you can't?"

"The beam is what's keeping him alive. If we move it off him, he will die. His chest is crushed."

"Listen, there's no blood. So how can you say....."

"The beam is holding him together. I'm sorry there's no way of removing it, he'll die."

"I can't accept that, you get me some surgeons down here now, and a slat, we are going to lift him and the beam onto my table. I want to have a look with my Ultrasound machine."

"Listen Doctor, I know how you feel. But it will take about eight to ten men to lift him and that beam together."

"I don't care, get it done now."

while Team C brought in the slat, they slid it under Sheldon. Then grabbing the ends and the middles, they lifted him onto the table.

"Now get me an oxygen tank, hurry, and those damn surgeons."

As they left to get the needed help. Mac, Merrick, Danny, and Flack walked in.

"Oh my God. Sheldon. God Sheldon, hold on bud, don't let go."

As the team watched in pain, and sorrow, Sid's Surgeons finally showed up.

"This is highly irregular, the conditions alone will kill him. Do you have any idea how many infections he'll catch? Even if we are able to save him, the chances of survival are slim to none."

As they turned on the Ultrasound machine, and had a picture of Sheldon's organs, they could see his ribs had punctured in his left lung, along with a ruptured spleen, bruised liver, and bowel.

"What do you think?"

"I think you are crazy Sid, but let's see what we can do. You three will lift one end of the beam, and you three EMT's the other, at my count, understand? Sid, you be ready with that scapal. Where the hell are my units of blood?"

"Right here Doctor, they just arrived."

Once they had the blood, saline solution, antibiotic drips going through, they put Sheldon to sleep.

"On my count, one, two, three."

As they lifted, they could hear the air come out of Sheldon's chest. Working quickly, Sid and two other surgeons faught to keep Sheldon alive.

"Christ, what a mess in here, I can 't see anything. You...get over here."

"The name is Taylor."

"Fine. I need you to suction this blood from his chest cavity. Can you do that?"

"Grabbing the tube, Mac began suctioning out the blood, so the surgeon's could stitch."

"I'm telling you Sid, this is going to be one of those stories that make Medical History. Especially if this young man survives."

Once they had his organs repaired, they checked for anything they may have missed.

"Okay, let's get him stitched up, and transferred."

"Will he wake up?"

"Listen Detective, I'd be more worried about the infections he is now going to have to fight. I can tell you this much. His survival rate is 10% if that."

Once they had Sheldon, on his way. Mac and his team headed out.

"Mac, you think Sheldon will make it?" Cried Danny."

"We can only hope Danny, Sid's with him, he'll keep us updated. Let's get out of here."

Entering out of the rubble, Stella ran into Mac's arms, and embraced the life out of him.

"Easy love. It's okay, I'm fine. Shhh!!!! Come on Stel, it's okay. It's over."

When Jennifer seen Flack, she just about smothered him in her love.

"Oh God Don, I thought I lost you, thank God you survived. Are you hurt, are you okay?"

Kissing her softly on the mouth, he whispered...

"I love you Jenn, don't worry, I'm fine. Let's go home."

"Mac, I'll see you later."

"Okay Don, get some rest. Merrick, you can stay with us for a while, till things get straightened out at Headquarters."

"You sure Mac. I wouldn't want to impose."

"You're not, you were invited. Stella this is Special agent Merrick, he's been helping throughout the case."

"It's nice to meet you. Mac, how's Sheldon? I need to see him."

"I know love. Why don't we go home and get cleaned up, after we rest, we'll go see him."

Walking to the car, they strapped in the kids and headed home.

When they arrived at the Hospital, Sheldon was taken right into the ICU and put on life support. Once they had him comfortable, and hooked up to several antibiotic drips, they allowed Sid to see him.

As Sid walked in, he had tears in his eyes. Oh he knew him and Sinclair had done their best to keep him alive. But Sid now knew the rest was up to Sheldon. He knew he would have to fight his way home to them.

Sitting beside him on a chair, he took Sheldon's lifeless hand, bowed his head and prayed...

"Dear Lord, I'm asking you to hear the pleas for my friend that come from my heart. I need you to help Sheldon find his way back to me and the team. You see Lord. We need Sheldon here. He's not finished on this earth, he has so much more to offer others. We love him Lord, please, bring him home to us.

Amen."

While Sid watched the monitor's beep, Danny walked in with Sinclair.

"How is he Sid?"

"Not good Danny. His chances are very slim, even if he makes it through the night, he still has to battle the infections that are coursing through his body."

"Christ. What the hell happened in there?"

"To much, to fast Danny. If not for Sinclair's help, Sheldon would have died, for I could not be in two places at once. He breathed life into Sheldon, and that made a world of difference."

As Danny looked over at Sinclair, he seen his eyes were misted.

"Oh don't look at me like that Messer, I'd do the same for any one of you."

Nodding he understood, Danny walked to the opposite side of the bed and took Sheldon's other hand.

"Listen to me Sheldon. I know you can hear me. You are to fight, fight hard, and do not give up. I need you man, I need you to come home to the team."

,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,......................................................................................................

Meanwhile Mac had finally gotten home with Stella and the kids.

"Merrick, there's a spare bedroom to your left, get some rest. Is there anyone you need to phone, family wise?"

"No. My wife died a year ago, we had no children together."

Nodding he understood, he watched Merrick leave the room.

Taking Gary from his wife, he held him close, then picking up Claire in his other arm, he sat down and held them close.

"Come here love."

As Stella walked over in tears, Mac wrapped his family in his arms.

"I'm so sorry I scared you all. I love you all so much."

"We love you too daddy. Mommy thought you got hurt real bad."

"No Claire bear, daddy is fine. I want you understand that. Daddy is fine."

Kissing his daughter and son, he walked upstairs and got them ready for bed. Once he read his daughter a story, she fell asleep half way through. Checking on his son once more, he kissed him again and searched for his wife.

"Sweetheart, you okay?"

Seeing her standing by the window, he could see the tears silouetted on her lids. Walking up behind her, he wrapped her tightly in his arms.

"Shhh...come on sweetheart, calm down. It's okay, I'm safe."

"So many times today Mac, I thought I lost you, I thought we'd never see you again. When the building collapsed, I felt my heart die."

Knowing the only way to calm his wife, was to allow her to feel him. He lead her to the bed, and sat her on his lap, facing the mirror. Then without speaking a word, he began caressing her thighs, as he slowly and sensually raised her dress. Touching her where she needed it most, she leaned back against his shoulder and allowed him to seduce her in his love.

A short time later, as she layed drained on the bed. Mac kissed her passionately once more.

"Sweetheart, I'll be home as soon as I can, I need to check on Sheldon. Try and rest. I love you Stella, don't ever forget that."

"I love you too Mac."

Heading downstairs, Merrick was waiting for him.

"Merrick, you okay?"

"Yeah. I just spoke to my Chief. I've been told to hand in my badge, I've been fired."

"What the hell for. You helped, and you got your man."

"Mac, I broke a dozen rules. They don't take lightly to that."

"So what are you going to do?"

"I don't know. This is the only life I've had, since my wife died."

"Why don't you come with me to see Sheldon. The Chief is there, maybe we can find a position for you on our team."

"You sure Mac. You think that would happen?"

"I don't know Merrick. But I do know for sure, that we will need someone to replace Sheldon while he hopefully heals."

"Okay. Thanks Mac."

Heading out the door, Mac turned on the alarm.

When Merrick and Mac arrived at the Hospital, they seen Sinclair ready to leave.

"Merrick, if you give us a minute."

"Sure Mac, I'll just head in and see Sheldon."

"I want to thank you Sinclair for saving Sheldon's life. Sid told me without you there, Sheldon would have died."

"No thanks needed Mac. I'd do it again if I had too. I may seem like a mean bastard at times. But that's my image, and my job. As for you and your team, they are the best I and NY have, and don't think it goes unnoticed, cause it don't. Now I need to get back and see where we are going to call home for the next several months, till NYPD and the lab is rebuilt."

"Before you leave Sinclair. We are going to be down one CSI for a while. Now Merrick in there, just lost his job with the FBI. So I was thinking, maybe we should ....."

"You want him hired on?"

"Just till Sheldon is better, and is capable of returning."

"Do you trust him Mac?"

"I do. With my life."

"Okay, tell him to see me in the morning, and we'll get him set up with a badge and weapon."

Nodding his agreement, Sinclair left the Hospital.

When Mac walked into Sheldon's room, he seen Sid was very messed up.

"Guys, give us a few minutes please."

"Sure Mac. Let's go grab some coffee Merrick."

"Oh...Merrick, you are to see Sinclair in the morning, he has some papers for you to sign."

"Okay, thanks Mac."

Once the room was quiet, Mac walked over to Sid, and took him into his arms.

"You okay Sid? How you holding up?"

"Not good Mac. Not good at all. I can't lose Sheldon. He's part of me, you know. It just can't happen, he can't die."

"Listen to me Sid, you need to stop thinking that way. With your quick thinking and Sinclairs, you both gave Sheldon hope, it was the two of you, that held him together, and kept him alive. You can't give up on Sheldon now, trust me, he can hear you, and he needs positive thoughts."

"I know Mac, I'm just not sure if I have any left."

"Sid, you have more left then you know. Why don't you take a break, I'll stay with Sheldon."

"Sure Mac. I'll be right outside."

"Why don't you grab a coffee, go sit with the boys for a bit."

Once the room was silent, except for the sound of the monitors, Mac sat on the edge of Sheldon's bed, and leaned towards his ear.

"Sheldon...Sheldon, I know you can hear me. I know you think this battle you are fighting within yourself can't be won. But it can Sheldon. I know it can. I know how strong Sheldon Hawkes is, he's a fighter, a fighter who never gives in. He keeps battling the evilness till he's ready to come home. So fight Sheldon, fight hard."

As Mac looked over Sheldon's broken body, he reached for his hand, and held it. Feeling the coldness of it, he knew it wasn't a good sign.

"Sheldon, if you can feel me squeezing your hand, blink your eyes, make a sound, or squeeze mine back, come on Sheldon, you need to come back, please Sheldon squeeze."

Not getting any response, Mac understood it was way to soon. So as he released Sheldon's hand, he felt him grip it. Not tightly, just enough to let Mac know, he heard his pleas."

Bending back down, Mac whispered....

"That's it Sheldon, you keep fighting your way home."

"Any changes Mac?"

Mac wasn't about to give his team false hope.

"No. He's still the same. Listen Danny, I have to get home to Stel and the kids, will you be okay with Sid."

"I will Mac, but what about Merrick?"

"He'll be coming with me, I have a spare room."

"Oh come on Mac. You have your kids that need all your attention, I'll take Merrick with me."

"You sure Danny. He needs to see Sinclair in the morning, 9am sharp."

"He'll be there Mac, no worries. You just get home to Stel and the kids."

"Okay. Merrick after you've seen Sinclair, stop by and see me please. So we can go over how I run my team, and what I expect."

"Sure Mac. I'll see you tomorrow."

After Mac left, Danny whispered.....

"You going to be a CSI?"

"Yeah, just till Sheldon gets better."

"I highly doubt that, if Mac talked Sinclair into hiring you, then you are stuck with us. Mac doesn't pick his team lightly, he must have seen something in you, to fight for you to work as a CSI in NY."

"Hmm...." Was all Merrick could think to say with a smile on his face.

"You're going to like it here, aren't ya?"

"You know what Danny, I think I am."

Once everyone had left the Hospital. Sid pulled up his chair, and sat down beside Sheldon holding his hand.

"Sheldon, I know you can here me. I need you to stay with me Sheldon, I need you to fight. Take my strength if you need it. Sheldon I'll give you everything in my soul, in my spirit, to help you fight."

While Sid caressed Sheldon's hand, and shoulder, he could have swore he flinched his fingers. Doing it again, Sid seen his fingers twitch. Not wanting to be wrong, he kept it to himself for now.

"I know you can hear me Sheldon, I can feel your energy. You don't have to wake yet Sheldon, but you just keep listening, and when you are ready you'll come home."

Laying his head on Sheldon's knees, he fell into sleep.

...........................................................................................................................

When Mac got home, he found his family sound asleep. Walking into the Nursery, he picked up his son, took him to the rocker and sat down with him. As he began rocking, he sang....

"Gary baby, oh won't you be mine.
Gary baby, daddy loves you all the time.
You are daddy's Angel, his little tiny star,
that protects your heart from straying afar.

Gary baby, you are my only one.
Who magically makes my world worthwhile.
Forever and for always, it will always be you,
my Gary baby, with your heart and soul so pure."

When he was done his song, he lifted his precious son and laid him carefully in his crib, kissing his little crown.

Covering him up, he left the room, and checked on Claire.

"Daddy....*Came the little whisper*, is that you?"

"It's me Claire Bear, why aren't you sleeping love?"

"I was afraid."

"Afraid of what Claire Bear?"

"I was afraid you were never coming back home."

"Aww...come here my Claire Bear. Daddy would never leave you, ever. I'll always be with my Claire Bear, always right in your heart."

"Can you sleep with me daddy? Can you hold me like you used too?"

"Of course I can."

Laying back on the bed, Mac took his little Claire Bear into his arms, and wrapped her tight, with her little head laying on his heart.

As she snuggled in closer, Mac could feel her tremble.

"Shh!! come on Claire Bear, it's okay, daddy's here. I promise I'm here forever."

Leaning up her little face, she leaned in and kissed her daddy's lips.

"I love you daddy, you are my hero."

"I love you too my Claire Bear, you and Gary Bear, are my heros."

Closing her eyes, while daddy caressed her back, she finally fell into sleep.

Once she was in deep sleep, Mac crawled out and headed into his room. As he opened the door, he seen his lovely wife sprawled out on her tummy, with her white silken gown half way up her waist.

Stripping himself of his clothes, he knew he needed her tonight. He also knew it would be with a violent need. For his soul was so unpure right now, and she was the only one who could him pure again.

Climbing up upon her, he laid flat out on her back, and raised her hips, as she felt his soul touch hers. Then bending towards to her ear, he whispered...

'I'm sorry sweetheart, I can't be gentle tonight. I need your purity to make me clean."

"Take then Mac, take what you need, and how you need it. Take all of me, I'm yours, till you're at peace."

Mac was so blessed. He had such a loving, beautiful, giving wife, that allowed him to take, because she knew deep in her heart, that he would return the love, the passion, the need twice over.

With no more words between them, Mac possessed his wife's soul, as their fingers locked, their bodies rocked, and their souls merged as one, together in the midnight light.

..........................................................................................................................

While Sid was sleeping, he was startled awake by the nurse entering the room.

"Oh..I'm sorry Sid, I didn't mean to wake you. I just need to take some from vitals from Sheldon."

"Sure, has there been any change?"

"None yet I'm afraid. But he's schedualed for a CT Scan and X-Rays in the morning, so we should know more then."

"Isn't there anything I can do for him right now?"

"Sure, if you like, you can take the oil, and massage his hands, arms, and legs, to help keep the blood flowing."

"Okay, thanks."

After the nurse left, Sid took the oil and dropped a bit on his finger, then began massaging his left hand and arm. While he continued, Mac was watching from the door.

"How is he Sid?"

"Mac...Oh, he's the same. I'm just helping work his muscles. They are sending him for a CT Scan and X-rays in the morning."

"Well that's a good sign. Here, give me that and I'll start on the other side."

Passing Mac the oils, he and Sid worked on Sheldon's muscles through the night.

..........................................................................................................

Meanwhile... Danny and Merrick had arrived at his place.

"Whoa....wow. How the hell did you get a harley in here?"

"It wasn't easy, trust me. So do you play pool?"

"I do. Why, you want a round?"

"Sure, just let me grab a couple beers, while you rack the balls."

While Danny was in the kitchen, Merrick had to admire how close this team seemed to be. They were like family. Something unheard of in the Agency. The more he thought about it, the more he was happy with joining NY's finest.

When Danny came back with the beer, he handed one to Merrick.

"Okay Danny, you break."

"You sure now? I wouldn't want to outshine ya," he laughed.

"Go for it Dan, trust me. By the time I'm done with you, we'll know who's the best," he laughed.

........................................................................................................................................

Meanwhile Flack and Angell had just gotten back to their apartment.

"Jen, how you feeling babe?"

"Okay, a little hungry. Do we have any of that Deli meat left, with that potatoe salad?"

"I think we do love. Why don't I make the snack, and you find the movie."

"Ahhhh...okay, I have the movie already in my mind."

"Oh really? Which one would that be babe?"

"Sliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiver"

"Oh no....not that one with Sharon Stone, where he seduces her and takes off her sweaty clothes, while he admires her beautiful body."

"Mmm..that's the one hot stuff." As she seductively grinded her hips against the wall.

"What are you up to there Jen?" Whispered Don.

"Nothing, just going to set up the movie."

Before she get out the kitchen door, Don had her wrapped in his arms, and began seducing her.

"You know my favorite part of that movie Jen?" When he slowly unclips her sweaty pants, and zipper. Then so erotically he places his hand down and causes her to moan and gring against him."

"Mmmm..Dooooooooooooooooooooon....please."

As he continued his assult on her senses, she felt herself ready to release.

"Don....stop, please, I......"

"shhh!!! let it happen Jen. Let me give you what you so desperately need. Me."