We would like to thank ALL our loyal readers for your support while we have been away. In the next few weeks, you will see our stories being reposted here for all of you to read along with several NEW stories we've written while we've been away.

We appreciate all the kind messages we've received for our readers...we didn't realize how many of you were reading our stories, lol. It has brought HUGE smiles to us and we hope you'll continue to stick with us as we re-post some old favorites and hopefully new favorites. Thanks again!

CaineSpeedle & Speedfanatic05

Now for the good stuff!

**WARNING: STRONG SEXUAL CONTENT AND LANGUAGE! You Are Warned**

DISCLAIMER: We don't own any of the Miami characters and we're NOT making any money off of them!

SEQUEL TO: "Legacy Of Madness"

Moving around the kitchen, Horatio kept his eye on the bacon that was sizzling in the pan along with the eggs that were cooking next to them, hoping that they wouldn't burn. Reaching for the glass, he poured the juice and set it on the tray, then glanced up at the clock, realizing that she would be up despite not having to. He was hoping she'd stay in bed just a little bit longer so he could surprise her, and start off her first day on maternity leave on the right note.

Placing the tulip bulb on the tray, he then grabbed a plate and pulled the bacon out of the skillet, moving deftly to the eggs, doing the same. Satisfied that the plate was ready, he then set it on the tray and sighed heavily. He wanted everything to go right and as he looked up, he saw her standing in front of him with a knowing smile.

Groaning, his expression dropped, "Calleigh, what are you doing out of bed?"

Shrugging some, she smiled shyly and shrugged, "I'm pregnant…and I smelled the bacon. I couldn't resist it anymore." Coming over to him, she smiled up at him, "Do I need to go back upstairs or something?"

"Yes, you do. I was trying to surprise you with breakfast in bed." Moving to place the tray down, he stood aside, "Well, you might as well come and sit."

Pushing a stand of hair back, Calleigh then wrapped her arms around his waist, giving him a hug, "Thank you for breakfast, Handsome..." Looking up at him, she smiled, "How about we eat out in the living room instead? We can open the patio doors and let the breeze in."

"Sounds good," he answered back as he gave her a peck on the cheek. Pulling her arms from around him, he took her hand, "At least go and sit so I can serve this properly."

"Okay," she replied softly. When he let her go, she turned and headed out the kitchen and padded into the living room. Going to the couch, she sat down in her corner and adjusted the pillows like she liked them before sitting back and bringing her legs up, stretching them out.

Picking up the tray, he moved out and then into the living room, placing it in front of her gently, "I hope you like it."

Looking at the food he'd prepared for her and then picking up the tulip and smelling it's sweet fragrance, she smiled up at him, "Thank you, Horatio. I'm sure I'm gonna love it."

Taking a seat next to her, he smiled as he relaxed, "I just wanted to make your first day on maternity leave special." He watched her start to eat and then asked, "Is it good?"

Chewing and nodding, she then wiped her mouth with the napkin and smiled, "It's wonderful, Horatio. Everything is just like I like it."

"Good, there's more if you want it. Do you need anything else?" Horatio stared at the flower for a moment before meeting her eyes, "Everything's okay?"

"Everything's perfect. Thank you, Handsome." Picking up a piece of bacon, her brow furrowed, "Aren't you going to eat too?"

"No, I just wanted to make sure your breakfast was perfect." Seeing her expression, he shook his head, "I had a bowl of cereal earlier, Calleigh. I'm fine. You eat."

"'Kay." Taking a bit of the bacon, she closed her eyes and smiled, "Cerise and I have been craving this since I woke up smelling it."

Horatio chuckled and raised his brows, "Well, it's a good thing that I thought to buy more while I was out yesterday. I heard you talking about wanting a nice cooked breakfast. So, what better way to start your leave?"

Swallowing and spearing some of her eggs, she chuckled as she looked up at him, "You know, keep this up and I'll get spoiled, Horatio."

"That's the idea, sweetheart. You deserve to be spoiled with what you've been through, and still yet to go through." Reaching, he caressed her belly slightly and then smiled at the minute movement, "She's awake."

Nodding as she chewed, Calleigh swallowed and reached for another piece of bacon, "Yeah. I think she like the breakfast you fixed for us." Taking a bite, she watched him, seeing the love in his eyes and smiled some, "So what did you want to do today?"

"I was actually going to ask you. Despite contrary belief, I thought you'd like to spend it resting. But I can see in your eyes that you want to do something. What would you like to do, Calleigh?"

Swallowing, Calleigh speared more eggs and looked at him, "I was thinking maybe we could go to the movies or something later. We've never done that. Or…maybe even go walk down along the pier."

"I like both of those ideas. Have anything you're interested in seeing?" Horatio watched as she continued to eat and smiled at her complacency, glad that she was finally happy. For too long, he'd seen her swathed in darkness, fighting. It thrilled him that she was finally in a good place.

Shrugging some as she reached for her juice, she pursed her lips, "I don't know. We could call and see what's playing and what times. It's been ages since I've been in a movie theatre. But, if we do, I want popcorn."

Horatio laughed and raised his brow, "Well, I'll make the call and see what's playing, okay?"

"Okay…" she replied after she took another drink and set it back. Watching as he reached for the phone and phone book, Calleigh continued to eat her breakfast. Smirking some, she moved her feet, placing them against his bare leg where his shorts didn't reach and smirked, knowing they were cold.

Jumping at the cold feet assaulting him, he groaned as he turned back to her, "Calleigh. Your feet are like ice. Do you need some socks or something." Settling, he moved her feet, lifting them up and placing them on his lap, "You really need to seriously think about wearing socks." Beginning to massage her feet, "Let's see if I can warm them."

"I hate socks," she said as she chewed her toast. Finishing it, she shrugged, "I never liked wearing them, not even as a kid. Momma and daddy would both fight tooth and nail to get me to wear them."

Continuing to massage her feet, he laughed softly, "I guess it's what I'm up against with Cerise. " Rubbing them, he stared at them and sighed, enjoying the moment.

Finishing up her food, Calleigh released a deep breath and smiled at him, enjoying there alone time together, "That was wonderful, Horatio. Thank you."

"You're welcome." Slowing his actions, he then released her feet and moved them gently. Getting up, he reached for her tray. "I'll call the theater after cleaning up. Do you need anything else?"

"I'm good, thanks." Giving him a kiss when he leaned down to her, she then smiled and whispered, "I love you, Horatio."

"I love you," he answered back as he returned her smile. "I'll be right back, okay?"

"Alright." Watching him leave the room, Calleigh smiled as she rubbed her belly and smelled her tulip again. Looking over at the patio door, she got up slowly, her large belly making it a little difficult and then went over, opening the doors and letting the fresh air in. Going back over to the couch, she got the remote and turned on the morning news. "Was there anything special you wanted to do today, Horatio?" she called out to him as she found the channel she wanted.

Cleaning up methodically, Horatio called out, "No." Putting the dishes in the dishwasher, he then went back to her and sat down, "Nothing at all. Whatever you want to do is fine."

Setting the remote aside, she turned on the couch and laid up against him, "I want to spend it with you doing whatever we want. We haven't been able to really do that and I want to enjoy my time off."

"I'm good with whatever you want to do, Calleigh. I don't mind, really." Horatio stared at the screen and watched the news show, feeling her eyes on him. Turning to her, he asked, "What?"

"Nothing. Just thinking about us." Leaning to him, she gave him a kiss and whispered, "I was thinking how much I enjoyed last night actually."

Smirking deviously, he nodded, "I concur. Last night was very enjoyable."

"You know, I was thinking," she said as she cuddled up beside him, "maybe we could do some shopping for…us while I'm off too."

"Shopping for us," Horatio responded with an arched brow. Licking his lips, he nodded, "Go on. Explain further."

Smirking some, she ran her hand over his chest and arched a brow, "Well, maybe we could find me some things to wear…or even some things we could both enjoy in the bedroom. I mean, if you up to that."

"I'm very up for that. I'm interested in what we can get." The thought of her in a barely there negligee hit him and he readjusted himself, "Extremely interested."

Moving some and laying down with her head in is lap, Calleigh looked up at him as both their hands went to her stomach, "Maybe while we're out we can get a few things then." Looking towards the tv, she felt as his hand moved up some and smiled, "Or would you rather stay home and do other things here?"

Caressing her softly, he warred with himself in how to answer. True, he wanted her to himself today, but she had expressed going out, and so he was inclined towards her desires. Running his hand over the swell of her breast, he smiled easily, "There's time enough for that later. We can do what you want to do today. Tonight, however, that's a different story."

Smiling as she gazed up at him, Calleigh sighed contently, "Hmm, then I think we'd better do a little shopping for us then while we're out. Cause what little I do have, doesn't fit."

"Well, you know, the best lingerie is the kind that ends up on the floor, but I do have some ideas." Circling her breast slowly, he smiled down at her, "It's the thrill of the lure."

Biting her lip as she smiled at him, Calleigh then raised a brow, "And exactly what idea's do you have in mind then?"

"Silk and lace come to mind," he answered back softly, becoming entranced by the feeling of her soft skin under his hand.

Closing her eyes and enjoying the feel of his hand on her, Calleigh breathed out softly, "I like that idea."

Squeezing her lightly, he chuckled and bent lowly, "It seems that you've changed your mind about going out. You seem to be comfortable right where you are."

Smiling, Calleigh slowly opened her eyes and gazed up at him, "You have a way of making me comfortable, Handsome. But we have all day, so I'm not in any rush."

Arching a brow, he inquired, "So, the question now is, what next? Do you want to continue to watch the news?"

"Not unless you want to," she said softly. It had been awhile sine Calleigh had been able to really relax at home with him and every moment they spent with each other meant more to her then anything. Reaching for the remote, she muted the sound and set it back before looking back up at him, "I do want to know one thing though…what are you working on under the sheet in the office?"

Glancing from her towards the direction of the office, Horatio shook his head, "I've been having trouble sleeping lately, so I just started painting. It's the beach at sunrise. Right now, it's in progress, but if I have a few more sleepless nights, I'll be able to finish it."

Crinkling her brow, Calleigh placed her hand onto his and interlocked their fingers, "Why aren't you sleeping? Something wrong?"

"It's nothing really. Anxious…excited. Cerise will be here soon and well, I think I'm a bit nervous. I get worked up and then I can't sleep. Instead of leaving, I go to the office. It takes me a while to find my groove, and all the while, I'm fighting it, but I keep myself here." Horatio squeezed her hand and smiled lightly, "Nothing to get upset about, Cal. Things are okay."

Nodding, Calleigh took in a deep breath, "Well, if it helps, I'm nervous also, Horatio. I mean, I've never had a child before…I don't really know what to expect when I go into labor. The classes I've took helped some, but like everyone has said, everyone's delivery is different. I think it's the not knowing about it all that's making me nervous."

Reaching for her face, Horatio smiled, "I'm nervous for a whole set of reasons. I don't know what to expect, I'm afraid for your health, Cerise's health, if I'm going to be a good father. There's just so much… But in truth, I'm excited. I can't wait for her to arrive."

"Horatio, you're already a great father. Look at all you've done for Kyle. Most wouldn't have wanted to take on that responsibility…but you did and look how good he's doing now. You…you have a way with kids…and they seem to love you."

Horatio laughed and then scratched his eyebrow, "Kyle practically raised himself and I've never had a toddler. It's scary, Calleigh. I just want to be prepared when she comes."

"I'm sure you will be, Horatio. Wait, what about Ray, Jr. Weren't you around him when he was little?" Calleigh asked, remembering as far back as she could how much time he'd spent with his nephew.

Horatio chuckled, "Enough about me and my jitters. You're content in being here with me today?"

"Of course I am," she smiled as she looked up into his eyes. "I wouldn't want to me anywhere else, but with you."

Horatio nodded and then his brow furrowed, "You asked about the painting… you didn't see it yet?" When she shook her head, he smiled and then moved slightly, "Would you like to see it?"

"I'd love to." Sitting back up with his help, Calleigh then got up holding his hand and began to follow him towards the office. "You know, I was tempted to peek, but, I didn't cause I didn't know if it was a surprise or not."

"Well, this one, I wanted to put in Cerise's room, but there's one that's turned backwards at the side of the easel, that one's for us." Seeing her eyes light up, he snickered, "Don't worry, you can get a sneak peek at that one too." Opening the office door, Horatio went to his easel and then flipped the sheet up, revealing the painting. Standing back, he eyed it appreciatively and sighed, "It's still got a ways to go, but I think I'll be done by the time Cerise comes."

Staring at the painting, Calleigh was in awe of his work. Never before had she seen something as beautiful as it already was. Looking to him, she shook her head and looked back at it, "Horatio…this is beautiful. The colors are so vivid."

"It's what I see when I watch a sunrise. It's such a venerable time, you know between the retreating night and the coming morning. It's where I find the most solace." Staring at the picture more, he smiled and shook his head, "If that made any sense whatsoever. Did you want to see the other one?"

"Yes, of course," Calleigh replied. Watching as he picked up the other and turned it to her, her eyes danced over it as a smile formed, "Horatio…"

Horatio watched as her smile grew and exhaled with relief. The painting reflected what he felt about their relationship, the colors running in concert with each other and twisting, meeting in the middle. He hoped that she could see the meaning and pulled it to the side, "It's us. The two of us, mixing and affecting each other. I blend into you, and you…well, you blend into me. At least that's how I see it."

"It's beautiful , Horatio. Is it done?" she asked as she continued to look at it and then back to the one he was working on for Cerise's room.

"Almost, I was hoping that you'd be okay with it hanging in our room. I think it would add to the…décor." He looked to her and asked, "Really, Cal, you're not jerking my chain are you? They're okay?"

Looking at him, Calleigh closed the distance between them and slipped her arms around his waist as she looked up at him, "They are beautiful, Horatio. And I'd love to put the one for our room over the headboard of the bed."

Horatio stared at the picture and smiled, thankful that she liked it. Holding her tightly, he leaned to kiss her softly, "Thanks. And wherever you want it, it's going to go. I'm just so glad that you like it."

"Horatio, all your work has been beautiful. I haven't seen a piece yet that I haven't liked," she replied softly as she looked up at him. Feeling Cerise move some and push on her, she looked down and placed her hand over the spot, "I think someone might be agreeing with me."

Covering her hand, he pushed it slightly and grinned, "She's becoming more active, isn't she? Maybe she's ready to come out."

Laughing some, Calleigh shook her head, "No, not yet. We've still got a few things to get still for her." Looking back up at him, she smiled, "You're gonna be a great father, Horatio…I just know it."

"And you," he said as he lifted a finger to caress her cheek, "you're going to be a phenomenal mother." Holding her more, he then dipped his head to her neck, nuzzling her softly. Mumbling, he asked, "Now what do we do?"

Smiling more, Calleigh closed her eyes and placed her hands onto his bare chest and running them over his skin, "What would you like to do, Handsome?" Lowering her right hand, she moved it to the crotch of his shorts and found him already getting hard, "Hmm, I think I know what you're wanting."

Horatio grinned and nipped at her again, his voice becoming low and thick with desire, "I do want…you." His hands traveled from her hips to her shoulders then down to her breasts, massaging them, "I want you now."

Lifting her head, she looked into his eyes and then whispered, "Then take me, Horatio…I'm all yours."

Keeping her gaze, Horatio moved her against the wall and smiled, "How about we start here?" Leaning in to kiss her, his hands lifted her gown to expose her and grinned devilishly, "So we're going without now, interesting revelation."

"I thought you might like that. Easier access for you," she purred as she gazed up at him. Taking the button on his shorts, she slipped it through the hole and then brought down the zipper, "What about you though?"

Arching a brow coyly, he shrugged, "Why don't you find out for yourself." His eyes drifted to her bountiful breasts and licked his lips hungrily as he felt her hand tug on his shorts, "I want to take you against this wall…" Losing more control, Horatio closed his eyes, "Is…is it safe?"

"We can't be rough…" she replied as she slipped his shorts down, letting them fall and finding him without his boxers. Smirking, she wrapped her hand around his cock and began to stroke him, "I see someone else had the same idea this morning."

As she stroked him, Horatio caressed her breasts, growling underneath his breath. He had to be careful of her and not lose his control. Pressing her back to the wall more, he then allowed a hand to skim down toward her leg and then to her inner thigh, seeking her heated sex. Finding success, he parted her engorged lips and then reached to circle her tight nub. Breathing heavily, he whispered, "Calleigh…"

Closing her eyes, a shiver went through her body, her hand tightening around him. Parting her lips, she began to breathe heavily, the sensations of his fingers on her making her wetter. Slowly opening her eyes, her free hand moved up his chest and to his neck, her fingers splayed over his skin. Beginning to pant, she breathed out, "Kiss me, Horatio…"

Moving in closer to her, his lips crashed onto hers and he allowed a slip of control, taking her mouth roughly. His fingers began to glide through her quickly, the sounds of her pleasure pushing him further. His cock grew harder at the feel of her slickened walls and he cringed as he pulled away to breathe, "Dammit, Calleigh…"

Continuing to stroke him, she looked into his eyes and ran her fingers around the sensitive head of his cock, "Take what you need, Horatio." Biting her lips and getting an idea, she let him go and turned around towards the wall. Planting her hands there, she pushed back some, her ass coming in contact with his cock and looked back at him, "Take me…"

Horatio took her hips and whispered, "It's okay?" When she nodded, he guided his cock in between her folds and then groaned as she enveloped him completely. His eyes slid shut and he growled, "Calleigh…you're so tight."

Pushing back against him more as she bent forward, she then closed her legs some, and looked back at him with a smirk, "You like tight don't you, Horatio?"

Licking his lips, he thrust slightly harder and answered, "Yes…" Horatio reached for her back as he continued to move inside of her, his hand slipping on the gown. Pushing it up further, he then palmed her ass setting a rhythm. He could feel the surge of sexual energy and he gripped her flesh hard to keep him from slamming into her. "God…Calleigh…"

Closing her eyes, Calleigh breathed heavily with each moan that fell from her lips. Holding her hands in place on the wall, she pushed back again, releasing a small cry of pleasure as he thrusted forward at the same time. Licking her lips, Calleigh moaned loudly, "Horatio…yes…oh yes…"

Pounding into her harder, Horatio listened to her cries as they echoed through the office, her sex pulsating around his cock. He growled as he took her rougher, his hand circling around to find her clit. Massaging it, he could hear her cries grow and her body react, clamping around him as he stroked her deeper.

Closing her eyes tight, Calleigh could feel herself nearing the edge quickly and fought to hold back for him. Gasping as he hit her spot, it was enough to push her over the edge and she cried out as her orgasm tore through her causing her body to shake, his touch seeming like fire to her skin.

As her release poured through her, Horatio increased his pace, slamming into her as she gave up her essence. It wasn't long before his own release came, his body stiffening as he pumped her full of seed, a strangled cry escaping his lips. Once he was spent, Horatio began to slow down and then pull out of her, his hands resting on her back.

Recovering slowly, he asked, "Are you okay?"

Breathing hard, Calleigh nodded as she used the wall to help hold her up. Opening her eyes slowly, she swallowed hard and nodded slightly, "I…I'm okay." Biting her lip as she moved to stand up straight, she faltered slightly and felt as his arms went around her, "I'm…I'm okay…just weak in the knees."

Holding onto her, he frowned, "Maybe I was too rough." Bringing her closer, he ran a hand over her belly, "Is the baby okay?"

"Yeah." Giving him a smile, she placed her hand onto his and looked up at him, "It was just an intense orgasm, Horatio, that's all. You weren't too rough, I promise." Leaning against him, she closed her eyes, "You were perfect."

"You were…outstanding," he breathed out. Whispering in her ear, he stroked her stomach softly, "How about we rest for a few before going out? I'm sure you can deal with a nap, right?"

"I'm sure we both can," she sighed and then looked back up at him. Giving him a soft kiss, she reached up, touching his chin with her fingertips, "Thank you."

"You're welcome. And now…I have to find my shorts." Tentatively letting her go, he asked, "Are you going to be okay?"

Nodding, she stood there as he went over to collect his short and pulled her gown down all the way. When he was done and came back to her, she bit her lip as she looked up at him, "Horatio, I want you to do something for me while I'm on leave."

"And what will that be?"

"I want you to paint me…nude," she replied as she watched his reaction to her request. Seeing the surprise there, she smirked, "What? You don't want to paint me nude?"

Horatio smirked and shook his head, "No, it's not that I don't want to paint you nude. I've never gotten a request like that." Pulling on his shorts, he buckled them and then looked to her as she held her belly protectively, "When would you like for me to do this?"

Shrugging, she walked over to him, "When would you want to? I've got the next two months off. Do you want to do it while I'm pregnant or after?"

"How about both? I'll paint you pregnant, and then I'll paint you afterwards. Then you can tell me which one you like." Reaching to caress, he smiled, "Of course, this will entail if I can keep my hands to myself."

"Well, I'm sure I can convince you to be good. Especially with the reward you would get," she said with seductive tone to her voice. Taking his hand, she began to lead him out the room, "But, for now, let's rest up, then later we can go out for awhile and actually be a couple out in public."

"I like that idea," Horatio answered, following her. The change in the air felt good against his skin and Horatio smiled widely, "I got up early this morning to cook. A nap will be just what I need."

Going into there room, Calleigh went over and opened the windows, letting the breeze from the water come into the room. Going back over towards the bed, she took off her gown and climbed into the bed and pulled the sheet up around her. Watching as he took off his shorts, she smiled, "You know, this is weird. I feel like I'm cutting work or something."

"You'll get used to it, believe me," Horatio answered as he moved in behind her. Slipping his arm around her, he settled and then moved her hair from her face, whispering, "You'll never think twice about that after a day or two."

Looking into his eyes, Calleigh leaned to him, giving him a lingering kiss before pulling back, "As long as I'm here with you, I'll be enjoying every moment of it."

Horatio sighed and then rubbed his hand over her belly once more before his eyes slid shut. Listening to her breathing evening out, Horatio could feel the lure of sleep as he began to drift. Succumbing, Horatio clutched her closer, and smiled as he fell into darkness blissfully.

Sitting out on the back patio reading her magazine and drinking her tea, Calleigh glanced out into the yard where Horatio was busy mowing the grass. In the week that she'd been home on leave, she'd never imagined how nice it could actually be. They'd been able to rent out her house and had even finished up a few things around theirs. The new life she had with him was something she'd ever only imagined, and she was happy that they'd been able to work past their problems and make things work between them.

Adjusting herself on the lounger, Calleigh set her magazine aside to watch him. Taking in his trim form, she could see the sweat covering his shirtless back, his muscles in his shoulders and arms flexing with his movements. Licking her lips slowly as she stared she barely heard the phone ringing next to her and reached blindly for it. When she couldn't find it, she pursed her lips, aggravated that someone was pulling her away from watching him. Taking the handset in hand, she looked at the ID and furrowed her brow as she saw "US Government" on the screen.

Hitting the talk button she answered, "Hello?"

Sitting at his desk with a report in front of him, Staff Sergeant Louis Weld crinkled his brow slightly, and sat back, "Yes, may I speak to Horatio Caine, please?"

Sitting up some, Calleigh's brow crinkled, "May I ask whose calling, please?"

"This is Staff Sergeant Weld with the US Army. Is Mr. Caine available?" he asked, looking back at the report and file and not seeing a woman's name listed.

Calleigh's concern grew and she got up slowly, her free hand on her stomach, "Just a minute, I'll get him."

Slipping on her flip flops, Calleigh went down the steps of the patio and out into the yard. Motioning to him, he shut off the mower and she held out the phone to him, "Horatio…it's a Staff Sergeant Weld with the US Army."

The utterance of the title coupled with Calleigh's expression made Horatio's blood run cold. Lost in thought for a moment, Horatio finally came back to himself and took the phone in hand, watching Calleigh carefully. The sudden tone at the unexpected call had him anxious and he cleared his throat roughly before speaking.

"This is Horatio Caine, how can I help you?" he asked as calmly as he could, despite the nervous tension that began to run through his body.

Tucking his chin down some, the older man then nodded as another officer passed his desk and spoke again, "Yes, sir, Mr. Caine, this is Staff Sergeant Weld with the United States Army. I'm calling to inform you that your son, Private Kyle Harmon, was injured in the line of duty and will be being transported back to the States. His eta into Miami is set for August 12th at approximately fourteen hundred hours."

Horatio could feel the fear as it took a hold of him and he shook his head as he grasped the phone tightly. "N-No…is…is he okay? Sir…is my son okay?"

"I'm sorry, Mr. Caine…I don't have that information." Taking a deep breath, the Staff Sergeant raised a brow, "Sir, if he wasn't, you would have been notified otherwise. Now, he'll need transportation from Miami International, will you be able to provide that, sir?"

"I – I will. I'll be there. What gate will he be arriving at?" Horatio asked as he finally lifted his eyes to Calleigh. He could see the fear laced in her expression and he exhaled as he rubbed his forehead roughly. He didn't know what type of condition his son would be in when he saw him again.

Double checking, the Staff Sergeant placed his finger onto the paper, "He'll be coming in on a private charter, so you'll need to go to terminal B gate 12. Now, it's limited access out there, so he'll be shuttled to the terminal, but you can meet him at Gate 12. There will be a flight nurse with him."

"Gate twelve at two. I'll be there, Sergeant." Horatio stepped away from Calleigh and rubbed his neck, beginning to pace, "Is there anyway you can tell me where he's at?"

"He's in flight right now, sir. He'll have a stop in Washington before heading down to Miami," the Sergeant replied as he signed off on the file.

Horatio nodded as his eyes closed, hoping that Kyle was okay and exhaled heavily. Opening his eyes, he turned toward Calleigh and then started walking back to her. Keeping his eyes on her, he spoke softly, "Thank you, sir. I appreciate the call."

"You're welcome, Mr. Caine. And sir, try not to worry too much. If it was bad, you would have been contacted in person," the Sergeant said with compassion in his voice. "Try to have a good day, sir."

Watching as Horatio ended the call, Calleigh could only imagine what was going on. From what little she'd heard, she knew it involved Kyle, and from Horatio's expression, she guessed it wasn't good. Going to him, she searched his eyes, seeing the slight fear there, "Horatio…what happened? Is Kyle okay?"

Keeping his eyes down, he shook his head and then exhaled wearily, "Kyle…Kyle's been injured. He'll be back in Miami tomorrow. I'll have to meet him at Gate twelve at two o'clock." Turning towards the sea, he wrestled with his emotions, "I don't know what happened to my son, Calleigh. He's hurt…that's all I know."

Rubbing his back gently, Calleigh continued to watch him, "I'll get the guest room ready in case he's okay enough to come home, Horatio. That way we can be there for him, okay?"

Allowing her touch, Horatio nodded, his hands going to his hips, "I think I should call Julia to let her know."

Knowing Julia was being treated in a mental health facility, Calleigh bite her lip and looked out to where he was, "Are you sure she'll be able to handle it, Horatio? Maybe it's better to wait until we know for sure what his injuries are. I'm sure she'll have questions."

Thinking for a moment, Horatio nodded, "You're right. I should wait." Glancing back at the house, Horatio moved to her, pausing to give her a kiss, "I'll get the guest room ready. You rest."

Holding onto his forearm, Calleigh then lifted her arms to him, taking him into her embrace. She didn't care that he was still covered in sweat from working in the yard, all she cared about was making sure he would be able to deal with what was happening, "I'm here if you need to talk, Horatio," she whispered as he hugged her back.

"Thanks, Calleigh. I'm okay." Watching her eyes, he gave her a small smile and a short kiss, "I promise, I'm okay."

"I'll go get changed and go to the store and grab a few more things while you get his room ready. Is there anything special he likes?" Calleigh asked, wanting to make Kyle feel at home as possible while he stayed with them.

"Calleigh, you should rest, I can go to the store," Horatio answered back as he looked to her. Placing a hand on her shoulder and squeezed, "I don't want you stressing over this."

"I'll be fine, I promise. It's only the store and I'll come right back. Besides, it'll be good for me to get out for a little bit," she replied softly and then gave him a small smile. "I've been resting all day, please, let me do this."

"Calleigh…" Horatio started as he looked away. He then exhaled and shook his head, "Okay. I'll stay and do the guest room, but when you come back, rest."

"I will. Now, is there anything in particular that he likes or doesn't like?" she asked again, already making mental notes of other things they would need.

"I- I'm not sure," Horatio responded as he gazed off. His brow furrowed and he shook his head absently, "Ah…what do teenagers like?"

Furrowing her brow, Calleigh shrugged some and shook her head, "I have no clue, Horatio. I'll just get what we'll need for tonight and tomorrow then we can find out from Kyle what he likes. It'll be easier that way." Reaching up and caressing his cheek, Calleigh spoke softly, "If he wasn't okay, Horatio, they would have told you."

Leaning into her touch, Horatio sighed, "It doesn't stop me from worrying. I don't know how bad he's injured, how he got injured. I…I just don't know."

"Just hope for the best, Horatio." Leaning up to him, she gave him a kiss and whispered, "No matter what though, I'm here for you…and for Kyle, okay?"

"Okay." Staying with her for a second longer, he pressed his forehead with hers and whispered, "Thank you."

"You're welcome, Handsome. Family sticks together." Giving him one more kiss, she looked back at him, "I'll go change and get to the store, okay?"

Horatio nodded and released her, watching her as she moved into the house. When she disappeared, Horatio retrieved the mower and walked it around to the garage. Entering into the house, he then made a bee line to the guest room, surveying it for possible ways to make it comfortable for Kyle.

Pacing the floor of the terminal, Horatio glanced at his watch for the umpteenth time and then glanced to the gate. He had wanted to be there ahead of time in the instance that Kyle's plane would arrive early, but now that was proving to be a mistake. With each second that ticked by, he found himself becoming more anxious, unable to focus. If he could only see him, he felt as if he would be better, but the waiting was becoming a heavy burden.

Feeling her coming behind him, he stopped and exhaled, shaking his head, "This is taking too long. Where's the plane?"

Placing her hand onto his back, Calleigh looked out with him and then up at him, "The attendant said the flight was about ten minutes late on take off from Washington. They'll be arriving soon, Horatio."

For most of the night and the day, Horatio had been restless, and Calleigh had taken a notice to it. She'd never seem him this way before and knew the stress could take it's toll on him. Doing everything she could think of to help keep his mind at ease, she had even called Tim over while Horatio was in the shower, hoping the his presence would help.

Taking in a deep breath, Calleigh slipped her hand into his, giving it a squeeze, "It won't be much longer, Handsome."

Her attempts soothed him for the most part and he nodded, "I'm sorry. It's just I can't…I just have to know." Turning to face her, he saw the concern and reached to caress her face gently, shaking his head, "I'm going to be okay, Calleigh. It's nerve wracking, but I'm going to be okay. As soon as I see Kyle, I'll be fine."

"I know." Giving him a caring smile, she squeezed his hand, "We'll get through this together." Hearing the call for his plane's arrival, Calleigh breathed out a sigh of relief and looked back at him, "You said they'd bring him to the terminal in a shuttle from the plane?"

"Yes, the area where they deplane is off limits, so he's going to be transported. He's going to have a flight nurse with him." He could feel every fiber of his body strumming with apprehension, his eyes now gravitating to the gate. He squeezed Calleigh's hand more and waited, ready to jump out of his skin.

Waiting patiently as the flight nurses prepared everything for unloading, Kyle looked out the window the best he could, trying to see the terminal. He hadn't wanted to come back home in this manner, knowing both his parents would be worried about him. Sighing heavily when he couldn't see the building, he sat back in his wheelchair and looked at his casted leg.

When his nurse came to him, he gave her a smile as she took off the break and unlatched the wheelchair from the restraints. Holding onto his small bag, he sighed in relief as she began to push him towards the door, already feeling the heavy humidity in the air.

Horatio looked up to see a woman pushing a wheelchair and he released Calleigh's hand to move closer to the door, waiting for him to come through. Glancing back at Calleigh, he could feel a slight smile coming and then turned back to the door to see them walking through. Immediately, his eyes gravitated towards his son, taking in every aspect of him. He saw the small bag and the weary expression that was laced with disappointment on his face. He could only assume that he was upset that he was back home, wounded.

Coming closer, he saw the casted leg and frowned slightly, then shaking it off. Without thinking, Horatio knelt and then took his son in his arms and exclaimed, "Kyle…are you okay?"

Leaning over the side of the wheelchair and hugging his dad back, Kyle nodded slightly, "I'll be fine, dad. Just had a run in with a sniper, that's all." When Horatio pulled back and looked at him, Kyle gave him a small smile, "I'll be like this for awhile though."

Horatio stood and sighed, "Well, we've changed the house around so that we can accommodate you." Glancing at the nurse, he asked, "Is there any additional paperwork?"

Giving the older man a small smile, she shook her head, "Everything's been taken care of, sir. He's in your care now."

Taking his place behind him, Horatio nodded and then pushed him towards Calleigh, "Someone wants to see you."

Looking ahead of them, Calleigh came into view and Kyle smiled, and then lowered his eyes to her belly. His eyes went back up at her as they came to her, and Kyle gave her a bigger smile, "Hi, Ms. Calleigh."

Seeing so much of Horatio in Kyle, Calleigh smiled down at him, "Hi, Kyle. Welcome back home."

"Thank you. It's good to be back," he said, his tone not all that convincing.

Perceiving a change in Kyle's voice, Horatio stepped up and cleared his throat, "Ah…Kyle, do you need anything before we go home?"

"Yeah, my duffel should be at baggage claim, dad." Opening his small bag, he pulled out his claim slip and handed it to him, "Being I'll be out for who knows how long, I had to check in my rifle before we left out."

The disappointment rang in his voice and Horatio glanced to Calleigh as they started towards the baggage claim. He was expecting a bit of despondency, but he could detect it was much more than that. Arriving at the baggage claim in silence, he then cleared his throat as he placed a hand on his shoulder, "Do you want something to eat before going home?"

Looking up at him, Kyle shook his head, "No, I'm good, dad. They gave me something to eat on the plane. Thanks though."

Seeing the wall Kyle was putting up between them, Calleigh smiled and then looked to Horatio, "Why don't you get his bag, Horatio. I'll stay here with Kyle and keep him company."

Watching his Dad move towards the baggage claim, Kyle tried to reposition himself and groaned, "I can't wait to get somewhere to relax."

"Well…" Calleigh said as she pushed a strand of hair back behind her ear, "your dad fixed up one of the rooms for you at the house, Kyle. You'll even be able to sit out on the back porch and relax as well if you like."

"Yeah, thanks." Kyle looked around the terminal and exhaled, "Did anyone call my mom? Does she know I'm back in Miami?"

Licking her lips, Calleigh shook her head, "Not yet, Kyle. Your dad and I thought it'd be best to see how you were first. We did want her to worry being we didn't know how bad you were injured. It wouldn't have been good for her."

"It wouldn't be good for her. That's funny how you know what's good for my mom." Shifting again, Kyle shook his head, "Never mind, when I get to the house, I'll call her."

Taken back by his attitude, Calleigh looked to see Horatio coming back with a large duffle bag and sighed, "Here comes your dad."

Looking towards him, Kyle held out his hands for the bag, "I can carry it dad."

Horatio sighed and handed over the bag, "Of course. " The atmosphere was charged with discomfort and he began to move slowly, "Um…any idea on what you want for dinner?"

Becoming more and more frustrated, Kyle clenched his jaw and bite out, "Look, I'm not hungry, okay?" His hands went to the wheels and he firmly pushed them, slipping away from his father's hands, "And I don't need your help. I'm not some cripple."

Horatio watched helplessly as Kyle wheeled himself towards the main terminal, wondering what he was doing wrong. He wanted nothing more than to make Kyle comfortable. He felt Calleigh take his hand and shook his head, his voice filling with defeat, "I'm doing something wrong, Calleigh. He doesn't want to be here, I'm not helping him." He could feel the anxious sensation as it began to course through him, and he loosened his grip on her hand, his voice now deadened, "We need to get going."

Walking slowly with him, Calleigh kept her voice low to where only Horatio could hear her, "Horatio, you're not doing anything wrong. Kyle's upset…and I think I know why. Think back to when you first got hurt on the job to where you had to stay out. I know when I did I was pissed off at myself and even took it out on others. I didn't want to be home, I wanted to be out there with my partner working, catching the bad guys. Kyle is probably going through that same thing."

Giving his hand a squeeze, she looked towards Kyle as he wheeled himself, "Talk to him when we get to the house. Let him know you know what he's going through and that he's not alone. Also…you uh, you might want to explain to him better then I did as to why we didn't call Julia. He asked me about it and wasn't to thrilled."

Horatio looked towards Kyle and exhaled, "He's so angry, do you think he'll listen to me?"

"Horatio…you need to make him listen. Otherwise…otherwise he could build up a wall that won't ever come down," Calleigh replied softly as they neared the terminal entrance. "When we get to the house, I'll go upstairs to rest…you two really need to talk though."

Horatio realized that Calleigh was right and that he was going to have to talk with him in order to save his relationship with his son. Coming to the door, he opened it and allowed Calleigh passage, his hand skimming her back gently. Looking to the curb, he saw Kyle as he stared off into nothingness, his expression telling of the despondency. Taking Calleigh's hand, he approached Kyle and offered, "I'll take your bag, Kyle and you keep Calleigh some company while I go and get the car."

"Why can't I just go to my place? I don't need babysitters," Kyle replied irritably as he cut his eyes at Horatio.

"Because your place is not suitable for you at the moment, Kyle. We're able to help you with anything that you need." Reaching his hand out, he repeated sternly, "Bag."

Handing the duffle over roughly, Kyle looked away and mumbled to himself, "I should have stayed there."

Ignoring the attitude, Horatio shook his head and turned to Calleigh, pressing a kiss to her cheek, "I'll be right back, sweetheart." Moving away from them, he shot a glance back, noticing that Kyle was stringent in his rancor. In his mind, he was going over the ways that he could reach his son effectively, knowing that the situation was precarious at best. As he neared the car, he breathed out heavily, his anxiety level jumping slightly. He wasn't going to let it get to him, there was too much to lose.

After the long drive back to the house, Calleigh retreated upstairs while Horatio got Kyle settled into his room downstairs. Looking down at his hands as he waited on Horatio to leave the room, Kyle wouldn't look at him or say anything, preferring to keep to himself. When his dad finished getting things put away, Kyle turned the wheelchair towards the window and placing his back to his father.

Instead of leaving, Horatio approached tentatively. The situation was touchy at best, and he easily recognized the deflection that Kyle was doing. Clearing his throat gently, he spoke with an unassuming tone, "Kyle, I think we need to talk. You're obviously upset, but you have to realize, we're not here to take away from you, we're here to help."

With his brow furrowed as he looked out, Kyle bit out, "I don't need you're help. Just…just leave me alone."

Horatio stopped in his tracks, the words repeating in his mind as if on a loop. He'd said that same thing time and time again when he was going through rehab, and now he knew why no one adhered to his request. Kyle didn't need to be alone, he needed to be understood, and Horatio was determined to make sure he was.

"Right now, Kyle, I can't. I understand where you're at right now. I've been there, but the last thing you need at the moment is to be left alone." Taking a seat next to him, he rested his elbows on his thighs and exhaled, "I'm going through the same thing right now, Kyle. I can't show my face at the lab, no matter what anyone else says, because of what I've been through. My job was my life, it's been hard…but I've learned how to cope, son. That's what you'll have to learn."

Continuing to stare out, Kyle listened and then replied, "What if I don't want to cope? I shouldn't be here…I should be with my unit!"

"I understand that, Kyle. More than anything, I understand, but," he paused briefly as he took in a deep breath and let it out slowly, "but if you're not at a hundred percent, you risk the lives of your guys. You don't want that, do you? You're here to heal, and if they will allow you, you can go back. But for right now, allow us to help you."

Dropping his sites to his hands as they fiddled with his shirt, Kyle asked, his voice still raised, "Why didn't you tell mom? She has a right to know I'm here. Or is this one of your games to keep me from her?"

"I'm not trying to keep you away from her, I've never tried to keep you away from her, Kyle. She was a danger to herself and to you. I've only looked out for your interests." Looking to Kyle, he placed a hand on his shoulder, "Your mother's in a fragile state right now, Kyle. Unless I had specifics, I wasn't going to worry her. If you want, you can call her."

Clenching his jaw, Kyle shook his head, fighting his emotions back. When he felt he had them under control, he spoke again, "I should have stayed down like I was taught…I was stupid and didn't stay down."

Listening, Horatio nodded and squeezed his shoulder, "We all have our moments in which we think we should've done something different, but Kyle, it's done. No amount of regret is going to change the facts." Reflecting back to the past few months, Horatio exhaled heavily, "I've made some bad choices, but what matters is what I'm doing now. Use this as a chance to learn, Kyle."

Relaxing some, Kyle looked at his leg and spoke softly, "There not sure if I'll be able to have full mobility in my leg again. The…the bullet shattered the bone." Closing his eyes and swallowing, Kyle took in a deep breath and released it slowly before speaking again, "They said I might have to have more surgeries."

"As disappointing as that is, Kyle, you are still alive, and there are things you can do. Don't count yourself out just yet." He moved closer and then released his shoulder, sitting next to him completely. He could see the defeat in his posture and shook his head emphatically, "You're giving up, Kyle. Don't. There's so much there, but for right now, heal."

"I feel like I let you and mom down…I let my unit down…" he replied softly, keeping his eyes down.

"You haven't let us down, or your unit, Kyle. You've brought yourself up, you acted honorably with your unit- you worked hard alongside them. You've done nothing wrong. You cannot help that you were injured. I'm just glad you were able to come back to us at all."

Finally looking to his dad, Kyle shook his head, his voice breaking slightly, "I didn't want to come home like this."

"You've served your country valiantly, Kyle. There's no reason for you to be ashamed. You're more of a hero than I will ever be."

Dropping his eyes, Kyle shook his head, "I don't feel like it." Looking back to him, Kyle bit the inside of his lip and then spoke, "I'm sorry, dad…I just…I…" Unable to say anymore, Kyle's eyes teared up some and he looked away.

Horatio wrapped his arm around him and pulled him close, "It's alright, Kyle. It's going to take some time, but you're going to be just fine. We're here to help…and this includes Calleigh. She's not looking to replace Julia, she just wants what's best for you."

Closing his eyes and remembering how he'd treated her at the airport, Kyle moved from him and shook his head, "I don't know if she'll want to now. I wasn't exactly nice to her at the airport when you went to get my bag."

"She's the one who advocated for us to talk. She's not the enemy, Kyle. She's a part of my life, and I love her and in turn, she loves me. Everything about me, including you." With a slight smile, he nudged him gently, "Soon, you'll have a sister to spoil."

Taking in a shaky breath, Kyle nodded and then looked to his dad, "Are you gonna tell mom about Ms. Calleigh and the baby?"

Horatio took in a deep breath and let it go slowly, glancing to Kyle before averting his eyes. His brows rose as he gestured, "This is a touchy subject, Kyle. Would you want to know if you're ex girlfriend was seeing someone else and was pregnant?"

"Probably not…but you know she'll find out sooner or later. I just thought it be best that she'd know while she was in the hospital so they could help her with coping with it all."

"I'll discuss it with Calleigh. Speaking of which, I would like for you to apologize as soon as possible. She's resting right now, but later, I think she'll appreciate it." Horatio caught his eyes and nodded sternly, "I'm giving you a chance to be an adult about this all, Kyle."

Nodding slightly, Kyle breathed out as he looked back at him, "Yes, sir." Looking around the room some, Kyle shook his head, "This place is nicer then the other one was." Seeing his father's expression, Kyle smiled slightly and shrugged, "It's true. It's…roomier."

"You can thank Calleigh and Tim about it. They are the ones who decided to make the change." Horatio smiled, and nodded, "I think it's got plenty of room, you should have plenty of space."

"Yeah," Kyle breathed out as he looked back at his dad. "Dad…are…are you okay though? You're still doing okay since you left rehab?"

Horatio grimaced and then sighed heavily, "Some days are better than ever, but some days…it's a struggle." He gave him a smile, "But I'm taking it all in stride."

Taking in a deep breath, Kyle looked back down at his hands and shrugged, "You can talk to me if you ever need someone to talk to dad. I can at least listen, ya know?"

"I appreciate it, Kyle. Sometimes, all it takes is for someone to listen." Horatio paused and then chuckled lightly, "Don't worry, I won't bore you. But just to let you know, the office's off limits, okay? I'm working on a few things."

Crinkling his brow, Kyle nodded to him, "Like what, dad?"

Horatio rubbed the back of his neck and smirked, "The kind of work that doesn't concern you, son. Just don't go in the office, alright?"

"Okay…" Kyle replied, wondering what his dad could be doing. Looking at him, he tilted his head slightly, "It's legal right? What you're doing I mean?"

"It is. Don't worry, no one's going to come raid the house. It's just that this is of a personal nature." He tilted his head and smiled lightly, "Maybe when I'm done, you'll be able to see."

Kyle nodded and gave his dad a small smile, "Okay." Sighing heavily, he shrugged, "Well, I guess I'm gonna have to find something for me to do while I'm here. I can't do too much, but, maybe you can go to my place and at least bring me my laptop?"

"I'll go and do that when Calleigh wakes up, okay? Is there anything else you're going to need?"

"Yeah. Some more clothes…mainly shorts. They had to cut these so I'd at least have something to wear back here," he replied as he referred to his camouflage pants. "We weren't really allowed to wear too much of anything else over there, so I left most of my things here."

"Okay, so clothes. Meanwhile, there are several shorts in my room that will do the trick. Do you want to change?" Horatio was glad that the tension had lessened and Kyle was more subjective to the idea of being here. Starting to get up, he said, "We'll have dinner here tonight, will there be anything that you like?"

Smirking some, Kyle nodded, "Yeah, anything as long as it's not liver or powdered eggs. Other then that, whatever is fixed I'll eat. It's been awhile since I had a good meal."

"Well, prepared to be dazzled, Calleigh is a whiz in the kitchen. It's like art to her. If you have any preference, I can tell her and we'll fix it." Horatio smiled and shook his head, "She's really good."

Looking up at his dad, Kyle turned his wheelchair some, "Dad…when…when are you two getting married?"

Shrugging uneasily, he exhaled heavily, "Uh…we haven't discussed it yet. She's okay with how things are going, I was thinking to wait until Cerise was born, but I don't know. Why?"

"Well," Kyle said as he turned the chair fully towards his dad, "I was hoping that maybe I could be there. You'll need a witness won't you?"

"Yes, we will. You…you want to be a part of the wedding?" Horatio was amazed at Kyle's forwardness, especially toward the wedding.

Licking his lips, Kyle looked around the room some and then back up at Horatio, "She's what makes you happy, right…and she loves you?"

"Yes, she does on both accounts. She's good for me and good to me," Horatio responded with a smile. Thinking about her lying upstairs, his smile grew and he exhaled wistfully, "She's the glue that's holding me together."

"Then that's what's important, dad. I'll be there if you want," Kyle said sincerely. Looking down and smirking some, Kyle shrugged, "I mean, she's family now…but it's gonna be weird having a baby sister. I've never been around a baby before."

"That makes two of us," Horatio answered back with a light chuckle. "I've never been around a baby before, it's going to be…interesting to say the least, but that's what makes it exciting. I find that I can't wait for Calleigh to go into labor."

"Are you going to be in there for the birth and all?" Kyle asked as he saw the happiness in Horatio's eyes again.

At the thought of the moment arriving, Horatio beamed, his heart blooming with warmth, "I want to be. I want to be there when Cerise comes into this world. I want to hold her…tell her that I love her." Gazing far off, Horatio imagined the scene but then shook himself quickly, looking to Kyle. His expression changed as his head bowed, "I- I wasn't there for you and for that, I am truly sorry. I should've been there."

Folding his hands in front of him, Kyle sighed, "Mom didn't tell you…so how could you even know about me? I don't blame you, I know if you did you would have been there as I was growing up and all." Looking back up at him, Kyle's voice lowered, "It wasn't your fault, dad. That's something mom has to live with."

Hearing the regret in his son's voice, Horatio moved closer to him and covered his hands with his, "Kyle, your mother did the best that she could, she may have made some mistakes with you, even with her own life, but there's no doubt that she loves you. She's going to get better and she'll be apart of your life again."

"I hope so, dad…cause the last time I went to see her, she told me if I went overseas, she didn't want to see me again," Kyle said and then looked up at him. "She didn't want me to join…she wanted me to stay here."

"I can understand her stance, Kyle, even if I don't share in her ideas in executing them. It was your choice to make, we couldn't make it for you. She has to understand that you're becoming a man, and maybe…maybe she can gain some coping skills in the facility she's in. She needs all the help she can get, son, but that doesn't stop her from loving you."

"Do you think we can go see her while I'm here?" Kyle asked as he shifted some in his chair, trying to get more comfortable.

"If you want to, we will," Horatio said as he nodded. "Just let me know when you want to go and I'll call and make sure it's okay."

"Give me a few days. I've got to make a couple doctor's appoints and all for my leg so they can x-ray it again and make sure the bone is healing like it should be and then I'll have to have the see when the staples can come out."

"Do you need any help with making the appointments? We're both here all day now," Horatio chuckled, "so whatever you need, we can help you take care of."

"Yeah. I'll have to make the appointments at the VA Hospital and I'll defiantly need rides to and from being I can't drive for awhile. They want me in as soon as possible to check there the rod and whatever else they put into me."

"We can work on that later if you want. Do you need anything right now?" Horatio could finally see Kyle coming around and exhaled lightly, feeling at ease now. Giving him a smirk, he asked, "So, thought about what you want to eat tonight?"

"Maybe a drink for now so I can take a pain killer, my leg is starting to hurt some. There in my smaller bag," he said pointing over to it on the bed. When Horatio went for it, Kyle smiled, "Would you and Calleigh mind if we got some pizza tonight? It's been awhile since I've had one."

"I think Calleigh will enjoy pizza, and it will give the kitchen a break. With her being home, she's been trying to fill her time doing whatever she can, including cooking. "

When Horatio brought him back the pills, Kyle took one out and then reached over placing bottle on the dresser. Holding onto the pill, he nodded, "What's there to drink?"

"Tea, water, lemonade," Horatio said as he moved toward the door, "which one do you want?"

"Uh…" Kyle said as he began to move the wheelchair over the carpet, "tea sounds good. Is it sweet though? I'm tired of tea's without sugar in it."

"Well, you've come to the right place. Calleigh makes sure that the tea is sweet, believe me." Horatio smiled and opened the door, "One sweet tea, coming right up. Anything else?"

"Yeah…" Kyle said with a slight smirk as he rolled himself towards the door, "Uh, where's the bathroom? I really need to go."

Opening the door more, Horatio nodded, "Come on, I'll show you. Do you think you'll need any help?" Horatio watched his expression turn and amended, "I meant to get you there. I'll get some rails installed to help you."

Thinking about it for a moment, Kyle began to move again, "It might help. My main problem will be bathing being I can't get the cast wet and all. Well that and using the toilet sometimes," Rolling himself out the room slowly and trying to manipulate the turn, Kyle felt as his father took over moving him, and looked back at up at him, "Thanks, dad."

"It's what I'm here for, son." Pushing him down the hall, he turned to the bathroom and exhaled as he looked in, "Okay, you tell me what to do."

Looking in and seeing it looked big enough, Kyle pointed, "Straight in, dad. I can uh…aim pretty good." Feeling his cheeks redden some, he sighed, "I really need to learn to listen better."

"It's alright son. This is what we call a learning experience." Pushing him in further, he positioned him at the toilet and sighed, putting the breaks on. "Okay, Kyle, the only way I see this happening is that I transfer you to the toilet." Watching his expression drop again, Horatio nodded, "I'll look into getting you a bottle urinal, but for right now, we do it this way."

Sighing heavily, Kyle shook his head, "Okay. At least it's you and not one of those nurses at the hospital." Slipping his pill into his pocket so he wouldn't drop it, he nodded that he was ready. Groaning as Horatio helped him stand from the chair, he groused, "Remind me not to get shot again."

"Don't get shot again, Kyle." Helping him to stand, Horatio kept him talking as he used his weight to hold on to Kyle.

Once Kyle got into position, he glanced to Horatio, "I can get it from here, dad. Would…would you mind closing the door and I'll let you know when I'm done, okay?"

"Okay." Leaving the bathroom, Horatio closed the door and waited, willing to be there when he called.