Chapter 8
Disclaimer- Ya know how it goes.
Maura woke up to the sound of cursing, yawning she looked towards the direction of the sound to see Jane Rizzoli in the kitchen. Sitting up she walked towards the kitchen, she was curious on what her friend was trying to prepare. Appearently she overslept which was uncommon for her however they had a long night last night. Jane turned however and embraced Maura in a hug and gave her a quick kiss on the forehead. She then told Maura to get ready and made her leave the kitchen. Maura was a little surprised as Jane seemed to be more affectionate, maybe a burden was lifted from her shoulders. They rarely went into depth of one another's feelings of past incidents.
As Maura finished getting ready Jane knocked on the bathroom door smiling, she seemed very happy this morning. " Hey Maur, breakfast is ready. Hope you like it, its not perfect but should taste ok."
Maura sat down and was surprised to see that Jane had made two different types of crepes. One was filled with fruit and jam while the other was filed with sliced banannas and nutella. Not the healthiest choice for breakfast however Jane managed to make them very well. Sitting down they ate in silence for a while before Maura had thanked and complimented Jane on the well made breakfast.
" Ah its no problem, the least I can do actually. So I heard of this place that seemed pretty amazing and thought maybe we could check it out. It's a park of some sort, seems to be pretty famous and popular. We would definitely have to bring our bathing suits with us." Jane smiled as she thought she did a great job on breakfast this morning. She never had been able to open up to Maura, however she was thankful Maura was there to listen and understand. She was also thankful the M.E. opened up a little as well, she knew Maura often worried about Jane's health and didn't like to burden Jane with her problems.
" Well it certainly does sound exciting Jane. I am sorry if I slept in too late, I really hope you havent been up to long. Again thank you for the breakfast, it was delectable." Maura and Jane both got ready for the day packing a bag with them. Jane just hoped it was amazing, she felt like it was. Jane was very eager as they got into the car left. The park was fairly large and Jane was very surprised it happened to be on key largo and not some other island they would have to drive to.
As Maura sat in the car she enjoyed the scenery, truly she understood why her mother and father often took trips to the carribeans and other islands. A cruise would be just as relaxing however Maura enjoyed staying in one place and getting familiar with everything the area had to offer. Cruises were nice as they took you into different ports and you were able to experience different events. However it didn't take long for Maura notice the highway signs that stated the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. She had heard of this park as it was the first underwater park established many decades ago in nineteen sixty three. Maura immediately knew this was their destination, however they only had one day left before there flight and hoped diving was not amongst the activities.
" Jane you realize John Pennekamp is very popular, over one million visitors seem to pass through the park a year."
Jane shook her head, how was it Maura knew everything. " Well Maura I guess we should be counted in the number. It's like a restraunt, if there always a lot of people then it's probably good. If its empty almost all the time, you probably shouldn't eat there."
" Jane must you compare everything in life to food. Which reminds me, we didn't exactly eat a light breakfast for swimming. I am definitely going to need to apply some more sun block when we get there. I enjoy the uv rays however greatly dislike the pain and discomfort of a sun burn."
" Well Maura life is like a box of chocolates. If you put it in the sun too long it melts. Relax I'm sure your not going to get sick, its not like you eat unhealthy stuff all the time. So I'm excited about this, I wasn't really sure about the diving thing however I planned on snorkeling,boating, and a boat tour of some sort. I'm eager about this, figure we might as well see more of the coral stuff. I thought it was neat you know." Jane couldn't hide the excitement in her voice. Truly she wanted to be under the water again to experience everything all over again. If she lived by the ocean she was pretty sure she would fall in love with diving, she would want to be in the water everyday.
Maura wasn't sure how to respond to Janes statement however she couldn't help but smile. Jane seemed very happy, how could she ruin such a moment. So instead she looked back out the window, " Your right Jane. It'll be a wonderful to be able to experience the coral reefs once again. They are a remarkable sight."
After another fifteen minutes of driving Jane smiled as Maura pointed out the welcome sign to the park. It was certainly busy but after waiting in line they were given all the information they needed from the employee who worked there. Jane glanced at the map and was very surprised on how large the park, the history of the place was fairly interesting as well. " Look here, this is what well be doing. Snorkeling, a glass bottom boat tour, they also have swimming , fishing, picnicking sites."
Maura smiled, " Well you lead and I'll follow."
Jane simply nodded and the two began to wonder off towards there first destination. If you were going to go snorkeling and wanted to see the coral reefs a boat tripped had to be planned. They had boats you could catch a ride on for a small fee as well as a class for first time snorkelers. Jane refused however to take a class. As they were changing into their swimwear Maura had approached Jane, " Jane could you please put sunscreen on my back? Do you need some sunscreen? It's a very good idea to protect yourself from ultraviolet radiation. Most ultraviolet radiation is reflected off the skin however the rest of the radiation are absorbed through the tissues just underneath the skin. Ultraviolet radiation absorbed by living cells can damage sensitive substances that influence the skins normal growth and appearance. Damage can either be a sunburn, increased aging of skin and even skin cancer."
Jane rolled her eyes as she took the suncreen from Maura and gently applied it to her exposed back. Jane had become focused on the feel of the other womans skin beneath her scarred hands. Her skin was very soft and she didn't think she had ever been this close to the doctors exposed back. She could see a few freckles dot the womans back, her shoulder blades were a remarkable sight. Her frame was slender however she wasn't skinny, her body was simply healthy and ever curve seemed like the perfect picture of a womans figure. She wondered how many times a day the doctor appiled lotion or some sort of product on her skin. Then again it was hard for her to reach her back So more then likely she didn't apply products to her back. Maura's skin was perfect, looking at her scarred hands against her back made her aware this doctor had no scars that were like hers.
Jane finished the task now aware she probably took longer then she should have, " There ya go. Thanks for the warning doctor, I will tell you I rarely sunburn and half the time im only in the sun when I'm chasing down suspects."
Maura removed the sunscreen from Jane's hand and motioned for Jane to turn around. Jane grumbled and complied however the next request from the doctors mouth caught her by surprise.
" Jane I'm going to need you to pull your bathing suit halfway down." Maura had stated as if she was asking a question that was a normal everyday subject.
Jane wasn't sure why she become nervous however she complied, they both were woman and they had practically seen each other naked before. As she pulled it down her back tensed and Jane almost let out a gasp as the cool cream touched her back. The doctors hands were gentle yet steady, making circular patterns and making sure to cover every inch of her back. Jane however noticed Maura's hands slowed and she began to almost massage one area. An area Jane knew very well, it was the scar of the exit wound from her self inflicted bullet. Jane's eyes closed, she had been very lucky but she would always be willing to save someone at the cost of her own life.
" Jane just relax. Besides I'm almost done."
Jane let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding. Soon the gentle hands were removed from her skin and Maura was finished. Jane almost wished Maura would continue, the thought was crazy. Maura would always be the only one allowed to touch her scars. She made Jane feel like they weren't there, that they would never cause her pain again. For the most part it was true, however there were times her hands still hurt. Then again they would never be the same and Jane accepted that, however when Maura touched her hands she never thought there was a problem with them.
" Come on Jane don't just stand there. I know very well your capable of putting suncreen on the rest of your body so don't think you can be lazy."
Jane pulled her bathing suit back and turned and took the bottle from maura's hands. " Well doctor. I was actually waiting for you to remark on skin complication or cells or something. I know your jealous."
Maura laughed, " Although I love your complication, jealously isn't an emotion I feel on the subject."
This caught Jane's attention and she was going to further question the doctor however Maura slipped away stating she would wait outside. Truly Jane felt a rush of emotions surface however ignored them, she was happy right now to be here. She felt a rush of excitement as she imagined them both back in the water looking at the coral reefs. This time they would be able to surface and maybe Maura would google rant about what they saw.
The girls walked around enjoying the water and sand and the sights. They rented the proper equipment again, the mask and snorkel, gloves and fins. It wasn't necessary for a wetsuit. As Jane and walked to the pier they boarded the ship. Again they both had to wait for the ship to become mostly full before they departed. The crew gave the people safety protocols as well as standard rules and instructions. Jane leaned on the railing of the boat looking back to island they were leaving. Jane didn't think she could become tired looking at the ocean, or the feeling of traveling on the waters. It was pleasant, something she knew she would miss for a brief amount of time whenever they returned to Boston. The thought of being on the water in boston wasn't as pleasant as being out here. In boston if she was on the water she was probably there looking for a dead body or how a dead body ended there.
" Excuse me I couldn't help but notice you seem to be alone. You are certainly beautiful. My name is Chad."
Jane turned her head and glanced at the man who now stood beside her. He had short blond hair, blue eyes, a well sculpted torso that wasn't hidden by clothing. Glancing at the man in his swimming trunks Jane wondered how many women he had hit on today. Not taking his hand Jane smiled.
" Yeah nice to meet you Chad. I am here with someone actually," Jane stated now glancing around for Maura. Where did she disappear too anyway? Chad continued to have a one sided conversation as Jane slowly scanned the crowded boat. She slowly began to panic, how long had she been staring at the water.
" Maura? Maura!," Jane began pushing past people, trying to excuse herself. It wasn't a large boat, well it was a large but not a cruise ship. Logically Jane decided that perhaps she went to the bathroom, athough she was tempted to shoot that idea down because Maura disliked public bathrooms. A hand grabbed onto Janes and Jane had almost went instinctively into fight mode. However she saw the honey blonde smiling at her, Jane narrowed her eyes at her and hugged her. " Don't do that. Shit Maura tell me when your going somewhere. Or did you just plan on ditching me so that you didn't have to return to Boston."
Maura was surprised as she received a hug from Jane. She clearly heard the woman call for her, Jane certainly knew how to be heard when she wanted to. " Sorry Jane, I was talking to one of the instructors. Also don't be so theoretical , I would never just abandon you. Who else would feed you or help keep your apartment clean?"
Jane laughed and kissed Mauras head, something she was noticing that was occurring more often. Jane glanced down at Maura and stared into green eyes, she was captured for a moment. Jane then took a step back, she was overcome with emotions once again. Smiling she held onto Maura's hand and they made their way through the people back to the railing of the boat. They stayed like that for the rest of the trip until the boat stopped. Jane eagerly put the gear on she had and waited to exit the boat. Slipping into the water she waited for Maura and as soon as Maura was in Jane quickly disappeared from the waters surface. Maura was surprised on how quickly and naturally Jane became at snorkeling. Maura also had a hard time keeping up with the detective. It seemed every time they surfaced jane asked a question and every time she received an answer she was back to looking at the coral reef.
The two were certainly enjoying the time they had, they saw several different colors of parrotfish. Maura then found Jane fighting with a damselfish and couldn't help but think the scene was funny when they surfaced. Damselfish were harmless however protected their homes and Jane didn't know better then to leave the spot. Swimming around the reef Jane and Maura were able to spot some barracuda, Jane had watched them for several moments, some barracuda were almost six feet in length. Jane never knew that barracuda grew to such lengths. The reef was teeming with life and it was a beautiful sight however it didn't seem as bright to the reef they saw while diving. Jane and Maura then came across a very popular sight to the state park, They both were able to see the christ of the deep statue.
To Jane the statue looked amazing, like a long forgotten piece of history that was hidden to the world. Jane could tell that originally the statue was probably breathtaking but years in the water certainly wore it down. The statue was covered with green algae as well as other things. Jane couldn't help but be moved by the sight. The statue of christ with his arms open reaching for the heavens it seemed. It was almost if it was trying to reach the light that reflected into the water. Surronded by the coral reefs it was a moment Jane would remember all her life. The light outside the water, something Jane was lucky to see everyday unlike the statue.
Once back on the surface of the water Maura tapped janes shoulder, " The statue has a plaque on the base. It reads 'If I take the wings of the morning And swell in the uttermost parts of the sea, Even there your hand will lead me and your right hand hold me fast.'."
Jane looked at Maura and nodded, it was beautiful. They spent an hour and half swimming around the reef trying to spend every minute the could exploring the coral reef. Time went quickly and soon the both of them boarded the boat once more. Jane and Maura were discussing what they saw once more, and Jane was able to list off several of the species she saw on the reef. They both however agreed that the statue was something that stood out throughout the whole experience. The christ of the deep was just an amazing sight to behold. Once back to the pier they both agreed that lunch sounded like a good idea.
Maura was hesistant as they once again ordered something not healthy or nutritious. However she didn't have many other options. Taking their lunch they went to the beach where they relaxed, Maura wondered how many times in her life would she be able to eat and drink on a beach. " I don't know if I could do this everyday Jane. Physically it would be exhausting although the experience is very pleasant."
" I'm sure we could get use to it Maur. I mean don't your parents have a beach house or something? I'm going to have to start playing the lottery or something."
Maura tilted her head and glanced over towards Jane, " The lottery Jane? Really? You realize you have a better chance seeing a grizzly bear and a polar bear in the wild in the same day then winning the lottery."
Jane scrunched up her face and sighed and rested her hands on either side of her face, " Wow Maur. Way to quickly shoot down hopes and dreams. I've never heard that comparison, I figured you were going to tell me I'd have better lucky being struck by lighting in the same spot multiple times. A polar bear and grizzly bear huh, that's just crazy."
" Like those who buy lottery tickets daily in hopes of winning. I do not see any harm playing once in a blue moon however it is gambling and gambling can be an addiction."
Jane smiled and laid back in the sand, addictions is what her concern was. Good thing they both liked to drink about the same amount as alchol and normally they drank together. Otherwise it might be an addiction. Maura laid down in the sand beside jane closing her eyes, the weather was beautiful the sand was warm. The sun was resting high in a clear blue sky, everything seemed perfect.
Jane opened her eyes and grumbled as she was hot and thirsty as well. Glancing around all she could see was white spots but after blinking several times she noticed they were on the beach. "God Maura you trying to get me sunburned?" Glancing beside her she noticed Maura was holding her hand however was fast asleep. She looked amazing however Jane knew if she were to stay exposed in the sun too long she would receive a sun burn.
" Hey Maur wake up. Your exposing yourself to ultraviolet radiation."
" That's why I put sunblock on Jane. You know your voice sometimes could probably wake individuals who have been in a comatose like state."
Jane smiled and leaned down a few inches away from Mauras face. Maura felt her heartbeat increase and she was taken by surprise by this quick manuever. She then noticed a sparkle in Jane's eyes as she quickly threw a handful of sand down her bikini top. Maura was up on her feet in seconds almost using profanities as she felt the grains of sand stick to her body. She didn't like the feeling of sand and especially after she been sweating in the sun. Maura narrowed her eyes at Jane who was still laughing at her. Maura was at a loss of words, she wanted to lecture her, she wanted to be angry at her but what had escaped form her mouth was laughter. She attempted to bring down the olive skinned detective however she was much to quick. They ended up chasing each other into the water where they swam for about another thirty minutes. Once they were done they both were smiling ear from ear and made there way back to the pier to prepare for the tour.
Jane had long since pulled her back into ponytail and she and Maura boarded the boat that had a beautiful and interesting glass design dead center. Jane quickly made her way to the middle as it began to quickly fill. She grumbed as they didn't have a spot beside the railing that surrounded the glass. However she noticed a familiar blond amongst the tourists. She excused herself from Maura and smiled as she made her way over.
" Chad right? I didn't expect to see you again this is a…quite some coincedence."
" Wow yeah your right. Um what was your name again?" Chad quickly stood smiling shaking the womans extended hand.
" It's Jane. Wow so are you excited about this tour? I think it seems relaxing don't you. Oh you mind if I sit here for a moment." Jane sat down next to the railing, she could easily have this plan work.
As Chad was about to sit down Jane smiled and grabbed his hand, " Chad do you think you could ask the captain how much longer we have. Oh and what reefs were going to see."
Chad smiled, " Yeah sure. I'll be right back."
As he left Jane motioned for Maura to come quickly. Maura sat down beside Jane smiling, " Who was that? How considerate of him to give up his spot."
" Eh some guy that hit on me. Don't worry about it, I have this situation handled."
Maura tilted her head, " What exact situation are you referring to?"
Chad made his way back and paused to see a woman had taken his spot approaching jane he offered a smile, " He said in another five minutes and we would be visting the west reef. Umm she a friend of yours."
Jane looked at him and smiled, " That's really great chad thanks. Yes this is my friend, her legs are a bit warn out from swimming I hope you don't mind."
Chad rubbed the back of his head, " yeah of course, not a problem. So maybe afterwards we all could go someplace to get a few drinks."
" Wow that sounds," Maura was cut off as Jane pulled Maura into a one sided embrace.
" It sounds like a wonderful idea but she doesn't drink. Thank you anyways." Jane smiled and turned her focus back to the glass as Maura raised an eyebrow at her. Jane smiled and shrugged and Maura shook her head.
After another five minutes they completely forgot about the man named chad as the boat began to move. Watching the water from the glass was certainly a different experience. Once the boat arrived to the reefs everyones attention was on the glass. It was nice to be able to see the reefs while not having to swim, it was beautiful as they knew it would be. Jane was amazed they still were able to see a lot of schools of a variety of fishes, she figured the boat would scare a lot them away. It was calm, the boat hardly made a noise and the glass did a very good job revealing what life lived among the reef.
" These reefs contain many Acropora Cervicornis, otherwise known as the Staghorn coral. Oh there also seems to be several Thalassoma Bifasciatum. I also believe that there are three communities of different types of reefs around the Florida keys."
Jane couldn't help but smile, she hadn't a single idea of what she was talking about. However as she expected Maura was so focused at describing what she was seeing. It was nice to be able hear Maura Google rant while they sat there. Amazingly she didn't go all wikipedia on her for most of this trip, now it was all coming out. A few people looked at Maura oddly, some began to whisper and then one questioned her.
Jane's eyes narrowed as Maura become silent, she forgot how some people didn't know how to keep their mouths shut. Smiling Jane grabbed her hand, Maura didn't seem odd or strange to her anymore. She was perfect, Google brain and all. " So tell me what kind of reef community this one is. They all kind of look the same to me."
Maura smiled, " Well Jane there is the hard bottom communities, the patch reef community, as well as the bank reef community."
The boat tour had lasted a lot longer then Jane expected, to the point where Jane was now able to understand some of the scientific names for the fish's. Once they were docked Jane lead Maura to their next destination, she knew by the time this day was over they both would be exhausted. As they approached the shop Maura paused for a moment and then glanced at Jane as she shrugged and entered the building. Maura was surprised as Jane had reserved a canoe for the two of them to use.
" I really don't know how I feel about this. How are we going to get this to the water? I mean I suppose we could carry it but isn't it heavy Jane?"
Jane sighed as she was given the canoe, she could easily rent one of the wheels to drag it along however that was costly. " Were going to have to carry it Maura. Yeah I'll admit where we are taking this canoe is a little bit of a distance but I'm sure between the two of us this will be no problem. So take the back."
Jane learned that Maura was a lot stronger then what she gave her credit for. She guessed yoga really did work for her, personally she preferred the gym or hitting the dummy she received as a get well gift. Jane wondered how Frost and Korsak were doing. A whole week without Doctor Isles or herself. They probably were going to need a vacation once the two got back. Jane smiled as they finally arrived at their destination. She figured paddling in a boat looking at the mangroves would be right up Maura's alley.
" Alright lets go. I'll let you get in first," Jane figured She give it a little push before stepping in. However when she attempted this Maura had moved making the canoe tilt Jane fell out of the canoe, she stood up and cursed as heard Maura laughing and wiped the water off her face. " Thanks, yeah bet you wouldn't laugh if it was you."
Maura didn't expect Jane to grab the canoe and dump her out. Soon the two were splashing water on each other laughing. It took them a while before they both hopped back into the canoe. Jane realized she was mostly doing the all the hard work as Maura wasn't focused on paddling. " you know we might be able to get through the mangroves more quickly if you also help paddle."
" I'm sorry Jane what did you say? Isn't this amazing? I've always wanted to do something like this, get in a canoe or go camping without a recreational vehicle. Just to try and stay outside against nature for a couple days."
" You watch too many survival shows. Good practice in a canoe I hear is paddling, lets try and practice that first." Jane couldn't be upset because Maura was happy, smiling. Jane could remember when she was little how excited she got about going camping. Sure half the time it was in the backyard but it was fun none the less.
Maura somehow during the trip moved closer to Jane, Jane herself was almost to distracted to even notice. However she did notice once Maura grabbed her arm, " Oh my gosh Jane. It's a Casmerodius Albus. Isn't it beautiful?"
Although Jane's focus was back towards Maura she couldn't help but agree. She realized why she went onto this vacation, why they went fishing, why they were in this canoe, it was all to see her smile. The feeling was new and welcome, she would do anything for this woman. However she wasn't sure if that feeling went beyond friendship. The way her heart was beating and the butterflies in her stomach, she may very well love the good doctor.
Rowing through the mangroves Jane couldn't help but think the roots made the trees look like they were trying to move away from the water, as if they were going to walk. They were able to see a few snakes and several nests within the roots. The route they paddled through seemed almost like a secret path, the trees and roots meshed together forming a single clear route while overhead it formed a canopy. An hour later rowing around in the canoe they finally finished looking at the mangroves. After returning the canoe they visited the rest of the park which they both agreed if they were ever to return on a vacation this park would be the first place to visit. They stayed at the park until the sun begin to set, making sure to gather their belongings they returned to their vehicle. Both were exhausted today, it had been a long day and a busy day at that. The trip back to the hotel was mostly silent, by tomorrow they would back on a plane to Boston. Jane was excited to be able to see what her family did a whole week without her. Jane was hoping that Jo Friday wasn't getting fat as well and her mom wasn't spoiling her.
Once they returned to their hotel Jane somehow convinced Maura to not shower and just have a few drinks at the bar with her. Maura reluctantly complied but was happy once they were there. It almost felt like they were back at Boston at the Dirty Robber, minus all the bad smells and bad food. " You know Jane I hope Bass hasn't felt lonely. Do you think I should have brought him?"
" Where would you put him on the plane? In cargo or just buy a seat or two from him to sit in? I'm sure Bass is fine, he's being taken care of plus Ma is probably giving him strawberries all the time. I just hope she isn't over feeding Jo Friday. How do you think the guys are doing?" Jane couldn't help but think Bass wouldn't notice if Maura was gone, as long as he had his greens.
" Pike is probably driving them crazy by now. I'm sure there at the Dirty Robber everyday wishing we would come back," Maura couldn't help but laugh at this thought. She knew Pike earned his profession however after a while he tended to get on her nerves, pushing her buttons. Maura knew Jane had no patience for him as well as Frost and the others.
Jane laughed, " God I think I'd rather be anywhere else then have to work with him. I think I'd strangle him if I worked with him long enough, he's a good examiner but ugh I don't know."
" Well it's our last night in Key largo. It's been an amazing experience Jane, thank you so much for everything. You're my best friend, so thank you." Maura lifted her glass and again they toasted to one another. Jane couldn't help but feel happy about the vacation and at the same time she didn't want it to quite end yet. Time almost seems to fast forward when you don't want the days to end and when you need the day to end time seems to stop.
After their drinks they took the usual route along the beach bath. Jane stopped and sat down on the beach and offered her hand towards Maura, " It's just sand Maura. Come on sit down with me."
" Do you know what kind of-," Maura was cut off when Jane pulled her down, she almost fell but Jane kept her stable. Sitting down they glanced into the ocean, both silent enjoying the atmosphere. Jane took off her shoes and ran into the shallow water immediately fishing around in the sand.
" Jane what on Earth on your doing?"
" Looking for shells, come on and help me. It'll be fun."
Maura decided she would stay seated but once again Jane dragged her into the water. They managed to find a couple of shells however they began to splash one another and swim further out into the ocean. Maura had been pushed into the water and once she was fully soaked she made sure to hold Jane down under the water the best she could. Jane wasn't sure how long they were out there until they heard a loud whistle and a security guard yell at them from the shore. It wasn't the best idea to go swimming at night. Getting their shoes they made there way back to suite laughing,
Maura shook her head as they entered the suite, " You ladies shouldn't be swimming at night. Didn't you read the signs?"
Jane laughed , " Did you see that man's stomach. You can tell he's been the security here for a while, that was priceless when you went all google on him though. He had no idea what you were talking about."
" Very true but I do still feel a little guilty. We did break the rules. Alright I'm going to hit the shower, I'm muddy and soaked in god knows how much bacteria." Maura shivered at the thought, or perhaps she was just cold.
" Whoa, what am I going to do? Stand here soaked till your done, let me go first. Besides it's harder to get the sand out of my hair." With that statement Jane rushed into the bathroom with Maura on her heels. After a few moments of fighting each other Maura began to remove her clothing her first. This almost made Jane stop dead in her tracks. Why did she feel this way? Maura was so beautiful.
" As I said many times before, they shower is made for two people Jane. Feel free to join me but no matter what you say I'm going in first." Maura winked at Jane and then stepped into the shower. She relaxed once the warm water touched her skin. Maura wasn't sure if Jane would join her, it seemed that this vacation made the two look like a couple.
Jane began to remove her clothing, giving her something to do other then watch Maura. Taking in a deep breath she tried to calm her nerves, they both were close friends, both women, there was no need to feel nervous. Stepping into the shower Jane felt her breath catch in her throat, the shower had a spout on each wall, it was a tiled shower and was made for two, a couple more then likely. Stepping inside she turned her back towards Maura's back and slowly began to wash. She found herself trying to listen to the movements Maura, this made her curse at her foolishness. She began to wash and before she could rinse she felt warm hands on her back.
" Jane don't you attempt to wash your back, here let me see the sponge please," Maura took the sponge from Jane's loose grip and began to wash the area Jane didn't bother to wash. Jane felt lightheaded for a few seconds, this woman was the only person who saw Jane exposed in such a manner. Once she was done she turned to face Maura her back against the water. Maura looked up at Jane and for a moment they were both caught in one another's eyes. Jane stroked Maura's cheek and they both smiled at one another. Jane pulled Maura into an embrace and pulled them both under the water.
" Getting cold standing outside the water," They both didn't argue though. Holding onto one another fully exposed, skin against skin. The contact was needed and desired by both. Maura relaxed and she wasn't sure how long they were like but after a while Maura smiled and took a step away from Jane. Jane turned off the water and stepped out and Maura handed her a towel, they both dried off and stood side by side as they began to brush their teeth and get ready for bed.
Jane didn't feel like drinking tonight, she had enough for one day, " So pick a show you want to watch."
Maura yawned as she got into bed, " I'm not really sure what program I'd like this evening. Why don't you pick one?"
Jane surfed through the channels before picking a movie she enjoyed as a child, " Alien is a pretty good movie. Let's watch this."
Maura wasn't sure exactly what was going on in the movie but she did makes comments about the old computers and other synthetics the we had in today's world. Jane however had long fell asleep, so Maura turned the TV off and laid down and closed her eyes.
The next morning Maura woke up to a odd sensation on her arm. Smiling she opened her eyes to see Jane gently stroking her arm. " Good morning. I must say last night must have been a record for you fall asleep so quickly. Perhaps we should watch that movie more often for our sleepovers."
Jane laughed and leaned forward and kissed her head, pulling back she smiled when Maura kissed her cheek. They laid like that for a few moments, before getting up and having breakfast and getting dressed. Jane helped Maura pack their belongings as they were already dressed for the day. " Listen Maur. You know I had a great time, I wouldn't have wanted to go with anyone else but you. So thanks for putting up with me."
" Thanks Jane. It makes me extremely happy when you enlighten me with such personal thoughts, no matter how small. So today should we just go around the island and go shopping?" Maura sounded too excited especially once she mentioned shopping. Jane wasn't even sure how the woman could have any money left after this vacation. Let along space in her luggage for more clothes.
" Shopping sounds so exciting. Maybe I can pick up a new purse or maybe some shops have fashion designed holsters for my gun." Jane rolled her eyes as picked up the keys and opened the door for Maura. Maura gave her another quick kiss on the cheek as she walked past Jane, she could certainly get use to that.
Hitting several gift shops and clothes shops Jane now wished they were leaving the island, " Maura seriously do you have to try on all those dresses? You just bought like four dresses that cost more then one month of my rent."
Stepping out in a lavender dress that was sleeveless Maura beamed at Jane as she walked towards the mirror and did a quick little twirl, " So what do you think of this? Does it flatter my figure?"
Jane shook her head, the woman looked stunning no matter what she wore. However the color looked very well on her and because it sleeveless you couldn't help but look at her, " Yeah you look you're a model. Are we done now? Let's get lunch and then check out at the hotel, we have to drive back to they goddamn airport."
" Jane language. I think I'll get this and then we can go fill the endless pit of yours."
Jane crossed her arms , " It's not endless. I can't help that I'm normal and eat four meals a day."
" Whatever makes you feel better in the morning Jane."
Lunch had been restaurant where they sat outside overlooking the beach and both ordered seafood. Once back at the suite Jane put all the luggage into the trunk and walked back into the room to see Maura staring out the window. Jane stood beside her and smiled, it was a beautiful vacation. " Maura, think we will be best friends forever?"
" Yes I do Jane. If you remember correctly were llbffs." They both laughed at that memory. It was true though, Jane felt like regardless of her future Maura would somehow be there. Staring down at Maura she wanted to express everything her friendship meant to her. She wanted her to know she would protect and she was sorry for all the other times she thought she didn't protect her. Pulling Maura into an embrace she held her for a few moments. Maura rested her head against Jane's chest and pulled back a little and stroked Jane's cheek. Jane stared down at her and rested her forehead against Maura's, she wanted Maura to understand what she meant to her, as a friend and if not more. Leaning down she caught Maura's lips in a quick and gentle kiss. Although the kiss was brief she hoped Maura would understand.
Maura smiled and stroked Jane's cheek once again, " Let's go home."
As soon as the plane touched down in Boston Jane felt a sense of relief. That was until she heard a very familiar voice and soon a very familiar woman approached her as she was waiting for her bags.
" Ma! Oh my god, what are doing here? We didn't need a ride!"
" I've been trying to call you for a few days now! Now I told you to call me when you got home safely after the plane landed. Why didn't you call me? I was so worried about you, there could have been one of those terrorists on board."
Jane saw Maura laugh and Maura then gave Angela a hug. Luckily for Jane the two of them mostly talked as she once again got stuck with the luggage. Once they went their separate ways Jane shook her head, " I can't believe she drove all they way over here just to see me come home."
" Well Jane I think she loves you very much and it was very sweet of her to do so. Did you turn off your phone?"
" Nope just didn't charge it and Ma killed it with all the texts and calls."
" You realize I had a charger if you forgot yours."
" Yep I'm aware. Feels good to be back home though. You ever thought about buying a Lamborghini or something?" Jane couldn't help but laugh at the expression she received from Maura.
" If that's how it's going to be I want a divorce."
" As long as I get the car. Ouch!" Jane blocked the next punch to her shoulder and smiled and focused back on the road.
Once they arrived at Maura's Jane helped take the luggage upstairs. Maura greeted Bass and talked to him for several moments before Angela came over with Jo Friday. Once Jane came downstairs the little dog barked and ran towards Jane.
" Well aren't we happy. Did Ma spoil you while I was gone? Did you miss us?"
" He actually kept bass company a lot. I guess the two get along, why is that when you come back from vacation you look like crud while Maura looks gorgeous?" Angela felt relieved they were home. The animals were not the only one who missed the two ladies.
Jane rolled her eyes and stuck out her tongue, " Geez Ma I love you too!"
However Maura walked beside her and nudged Jane, Jane sighed defeated and look back towards her mother, " I love you Ma, thank you for letting me and maura-"
" For Jane and I, use those tickets you won. We had such a great time together, again thank you," Maura winked at Jane as she cut her off. She knew Jane hated it when she corrected her but she had to jump in.
" Aww I'm so happy you two had a great time. I'm going to call Frankie and tell him your home." Angela gave them both a hug and left towards the guest house.
Maura walked around the house and went to the kitchen, " Would you like anything to drink? It seems I somehow have pasta leftover in here, are you hungry?"
"No thanks. All I want to do now is sit on the couch and watch some sports."
Maura then heard her phone rang, " Isles. Yes, yes she is. Understood we'll be there soon, thank you."
Jane glanced back at Maura and smiled and stood up, " Right I'll change. So what do we have?"
Maura followed Jane upstairs it was amazing that after a week and returning home everything was the same. As for their relationship, it was hard to define. Regardless of how people thought of them, it was what it was and nothing more, " Double homicide."
- Thanks for reading guys. I know I probably had a million errors but what can I say, I'm only human. I really hate capitalizing too but I tried really hard to accomplish capitalizing things in this story. I wanted to make this story a little longer but it needed to come to an end, I'll be working on another story soon. It's not rizzles but rizzles may be in my future . Thanks for reading I appreciate you putting up with my grammar :D. Also this story was inspired by the song from the beach boys called kokomo. So thats how this story came to be in my head, listen to it if you never heard of it ;).