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"

Sitting out under the large oak tree, the slight breeze blew her long blonde hair back as she stared off in the distance. Blinking slowly, she didn't remember the last time she'd seen her husband, her son, her ex-lover, or anyone that at one point in her life that mattered. She'd always felt alone deep inside, as if the world had turned it's back on her and was against her.

The sound of a throat clearing behind her drew her from the serine place she'd briefly found and lifted her head. Turning some, she looked back behind her to find Horatio and Kyle there to see her. At the sight of her son in a wheelchair, she took in a deep surprised breath before the memories of there last conversation only months before.

"I see like your father that you don't listen to me."

Taking a glance at his father before wheeling closer, he then settled his sights on her, "Mom, I'm not here to fight with you. I wanted to come and see you, I haven't seen you in so long. How are you?" Kyle's voice seemed to crack under the stress of uncertainty as he sighed, "I missed you, Mom."

Turning her head away from him, Julia's brow crinkled briefly, the months of talks with her therapist coming back to her. Licking her lips, she turned to look back at him again and got up from where she was sitting. Slowly, she walked over to him until she stood right in front of him. Looking to Horatio, her sights then went back to Kyle and she slowly kneeled down, "What happened?"

"I was caught by a sniper, the bullet shattered the bone," Kyle replied as he exhaled heavily. His tone was reticent of shame, his head hanging low, "I didn't listen. My company was under heavy fire and my sergeant told us to stay down, I didn't listen…"

Dropping her sights to the cast, she then looked back up at Horatio, her eyes turning cold towards him. Standing up, she shook her head, "You promised to keep him, safe, Horatio. You promised me our son would have a better life then us…and you let him go off like that?" Her voice began to rise over the peaceful calm of the area and her temper began to flare, "He could have been killed, Horatio!"

Keeping his sights on the green grass, Horatio exhaled and spoke softly, "He's an adult, Julia. He makes his own decisions. You have to respect his decision and love him no matter what." Lifting his eyes, Horatio centered on Julia, "He came here to see you, Julia. He just wants to reconnect."

Turning and taking a few steps away as she ran both hands through her hair, Julia closed her eyes, trying to push her anger back down. Stopping, she let her head lull back some and then spoke again, "Why? So he can leave me again?"

Taking a step forward, Horatio started, "Julia…"

Holding out his arm, Kyle shook his head and then focused on his mother, "Mom, I love you. You've done so much for me in these last few years, that the first years don't make a difference. I know you've made mistakes, but you don't have to worry about me. I have to learn just like you did." Pausing, he sighed, "I want you apart of my life, Mom. I need you…and Dad."

Lowering her head, Julia looked down at the grass, a single tear falling and rolling down her cheek at her son's words. Taking a deep breath, Julia shook her head and released a slight laugh, "Why? So I can screw it up again?" Turning back to him, Julia's eyes met Kyle's, "I don't want to hurt you again, Kyle."

"Mom, you're not going to hurt me. Please," Kyle pleaded as his voice dwindled. Shaking his head, he used every bit of strength he had to turn the wheelchair around only to meet more resistance. Looking up, he saw his father's stern stance.

"You can't run from this, Kyle. Face it," Horatio stated firmly.

Kyle stared at his father and felt the frustration mounting, but decided to use it, turning his chair back around. Attempting to control the anger, he closed his eyes, "Mom, it's like this. I need you, and no matter what, we're going to make this happen. Too much time has passed, I just got you back a few years ago, I don't want to lose you again. I'm here for you, Mom."

Staring at him and then adverting her eyes to Horatio, she saw his look and slight nod and then looked back at Kyle. Taking a few steps closer to him, she moved to the side of his wheelchair and knelt down again. Studying him, she then spoke softly, "I love you, Kyle…and I need you too."

Kyle's frustration gave over to relief as he nodded and smiled lightly, "That's good to hear. We need each other if we're going to survive."

Reaching over to him, Julia cupped his face and furrowed her brow, "When did you grow up and become so smart?"

"You had a part in it, as well as Dad. Since I've gotten you back, you've taught me all I needed to know." Kyle smiled more and sighed, "I just hope you forgive me for being so stubborn, it's a trait I got honest."

Horatio snickered as his brows raised and looked to Julia, "That you do, son."

Looking up at Horatio, Julia and his eyes connected briefly before she looked back at Kyle, "I can never stay made at you. You're my son."

"Good, because I'm sure that I'm not done screwing up." Kyle glanced up to his father and grinned more. "But, a good thing comes out of me coming home prematurely, I get to be here for some interesting events. Right, Dad?"

Resting her hand on Kyle's, Julia then looked up at Horatio, her head tilting some as her eyes crinkled, "What's he talking about, Horatio?"

Rubbing his neck, Horatio shrugged his shoulders and then exhaled lightly, his voice maintaining its strength. True, he didn't want to reveal the changes to his life to Julia during her interaction with Kyle, but Kyle's mention brought the items to the forefront. Matching her gaze, he smiled, "Well, he's talking about me having another child, and…getting married again."

Unable to believe what she was hearing, Julia let out a small laugh and shook her head, "A baby…and marriage? Okay, Horatio…what is really going on?" Seeing his expression and then him looking down, Julia's smile dropped, "You…you're getting married? To who?"

"To Calleigh Duquesne. She's been there when…when I needed her the most." Feeling an uncomfortable sensation cloaking him, he stepped back slightly, "I…uh…I went through some things…and she stood by me when there was no one else. I love her."

Remembering the young blond CSI, Julia lowered her eyes and licked her lips before releasing a breath. Her sights went back to the red head and her head tilted slightly as she stood back up, "Your CSI…I remember her. I really didn't think she was your type though…then again, people change, don't they, Horatio?"

"Yes, they do," Horatio responded as he heard the indignation in her voice. Centering himself, he stood firmly, "I love Calleigh, Julia, and we're going to have a family together."

Staring at him briefly, Julia then adverted her eyes, "Well then…congratulations, Horatio. I guess you won't be needing to come here anymore." When a tone from the building sounded, she looked towards it and then to Kyle, "I have to get back inside. It's time for one of my classes. Will you call me?"

"Of course, Mom. I'll call you." Watching as she started away, he called out, "MOM!"

Turning back to him and moving a strand of hair from her eyes, she looked to him. Seeing his concern, she went back to him and leaned down, giving him a hug. "I love you. Don't ever forget that, okay?" she whispered and then gave him a kiss to the side of his head.

"I won't," he promised as he nodded. Smiling as she stood, he replied back, "I love you too, Mom."

Cupping his cheek, she then pulled back, glancing to Horatio. When she looked back at Kyle, she gave him a small smile, "I'll wait for your call." When another tone sounded, she began to walk backwards, her eyes filling with tears and then turned, trotting off towards the building.

Horatio watched as she disappeared into the building and then turned to Kyle, "I think she's going to be okay, son. You did a good thing by coming here today."

Turning his head and looking up at his father, Kyle nodded and looked back at the building, "She seems different, dad. I mean, that's good…but I don't know. Something seemed a little off."

Hearing the concern in Kyle's tone, he tilted his head, "What do you mean, son? With the exception of her surprise about me getting married…"

Shaking his head, he then looked back up at his dad, "I don't know. Maybe it's just the meds she's on." Taking in a deep breath, Kyle tried to turn his wheelchair some, "Dad, do you think we could make a stop on the way back home? There's a couple things I wanted to get."

Helping Kyle turn the chair, he nodded, "Sure. Whatever you need, we can get."

"Thanks, dad." As they began to head back through the grass, Kyle smiled some and looked back to Horatio, "Dad, does Calleigh like Mexican food?"

"She loves it, but it may not agree with Cerise, why?" Horatio asked as he stopped to help Kyle through a rough patch. Kicking the chair up, he pulled it through and then set it back on the sidewalk, letting the chair go so that Kyle could push himself. As they proceeded on, he arched a brow, "Is that what you want for dinner tonight?"

Rolling himself alongside Horatio, Kyle smirked, "Well, I was actually wanting to treat you and her to dinner tonight. I thought if she did we could pick it up on the way…maybe that and a few movies."

"That sounds like a great idea. I think Calleigh would love a movie night." Horatio chuckled at the thought of Calleigh propping her legs on his lap to relax and fighting sleep. Usually, she wouldn't last twenty minutes before her eyes weighed heavily and she drifted away, but he wouldn't deter her. She needed anything that would help her to relax.

Taking a seat with the bowl of popcorn, Horatio glanced to both Kyle and Calleigh as they sat on the other end of the couch, engrossed in a conversation. The movie that was chosen for the night was on cue, waiting for Horatio to come back from the kitchen and as he smirked and settled, he laughed softly and shook his head, relishing the scene. For so long he wanted a family to come home to, to share his life with, and now, it was all in his grasp.

Grabbing the remote control, he pressed play and simultaneously, their attention to each other broke and Calleigh slid closer to him. Instead of her feet in his lap, she opted to lay across it, grabbing a pillow to make herself more comfortable. Horatio waited until she was settled on her side before allowing his hand to settle gently on her belly, rubbing it slowly. The contentment was evident and he exhaled lightly as the movie began, relaxing even more.

Getting as comfortable as she could, Calleigh relaxed as Horatio began to rub her large belly. With only weeks left in her pregnancy, Calleigh had been trying to relax as much as possible, and had even found a few exercises to help her with that. Feeling her stomach tighten some, her brow furrowed for a few seconds until it relaxed again.

The opening credits began and Calleigh moved herself slightly and suddenly cringed, her hand going to her stomach next to his and her eyes getting bigger. Feeling Horatio move some, she bite her lip and then felt her stomach relax again.

Perceiving the movements and the tension that was developing under his hand, Horatio's attention was torn from the screen to Calleigh, looking down at her. Rubbing again, he asked softly, "Calleigh? Is everything okay?"

Unsure, Calleigh just nodded, "Yeah. Just some gas pain's I guess…that or Cerise is pushing weird." Feeling another, Calleigh groaned as her hand tightened around her stomach, "Horatio…"

Helping her sit up, Horatio's heart began to hammer inside his chest as he took in her fearful expression, "Calleigh…is this it?"

"I…I think so…" she replied and then groaned again, leaning forward some and wrapping both arms around her stomach.

Watching, Kyle sat up more, swallowing before asking, "Dad…she's in labor?"

"It seems so, Kyle." Moving into action, Horatio got up away from her and went to the closet, pulling out the premade luggage, and placing it by the door. Coming back in, he went for her and got to his knees, cupping her face gently, "Sweetheart, you gotta tell me how far a part they are coming, okay?"

"Back to back…" she replied as another contraction began. Looking at him, fear filled her and tears began to fill Calleigh's eyes, "It's not time yet for this."

Pulling out his cell phone, Kyle flipped it open, "Dad, want me to call 911?"

Making a quick fire decision, Horatio shook his head, "No, I can get her there before they come." Standing, Horatio glanced to Kyle and then to Calleigh, realizing he had a problem on his hands. A second passed before he took action, pulling Calleigh up gently and holding her close to him, "Kyle, I'm going to get her into the car, give Tim a call and let him know what's going on and ask him to come and pick you up. I've got to get her to the hospital."

Nodding his head, Kyle watched as Horatio began to slowly lead Calleigh, "Okay. Good luck, Calleigh."

Unable to acknowledge Kyle, Calleigh moved slowly with Horatio, whimpering at the pain as it seemed to come back to back and then stop before starting again. Trying to breath through them, they reached the door and Calleigh breathed out, "I'm scared, Horatio."

"There's no need to be scared, sweetheart. Things are going to be fine. Cerise is strong, she's going to be just fine," Horatio said with a hint of disposition. The fear was founded however; Cerise wasn't due for a few more weeks, but he knew he had to stand strong in the face of this fear.

Rubbing her back slowly, he spoke softly, "We'll get to the hospital, and then we'll see what's going on, okay?"

"'Kay…" she groaned as she doubled over some. Feeling his arms around her, tears continued to fall as then moved to the door. Waiting as he opened it and they started out, Calleigh whispered to him, "I love you…"

"I love you," he replied as he held her to him. Walking very slowly, he made it to the car and placed her gingerly down and then returning to the house to find Kyle coming to meet him. He could see the concern in his son's eyes and tried to affect a calmness that even he was having trouble with.

Reaching for the keys, Horatio asked, "Did you get up with Speed?"

"Yeah, he's getting Alexx to watch his daughter and then he'll be here to get me." Seeing Horatio's hand shaking slightly, Kyle licked his lips and rolled himself closer, "Women have babies everyday, dad. Calleigh will be okay, so will Cerise."

"She's in so much pain," Horatio said almost in a whisper. He moved to the door only to be frozen in his tracks by an unearthly scream that made his blood run cold. Coming out of his stupor, he raced to the door to see Calleigh doubled over and glanced back at Kyle, "I've gotta go."

"Go, dad…I'm fine here," Kyle said as he wheeled himself to the door and looked out. Watching as his father got in next to Calleigh, he hoped and prayed everything would be okay with them. Rolling himself back from the door, he swung it shut and whispered to himself, "Please let them be okay."

Getting into the car, Horatio looked to Calleigh and reached to touch her back, feeling the tension that was rippling in her body. Wasting no time, Horatio turned the ignition and then backed out, the tires squealing on the pavement. Slamming the car into drive, he then slammed on the gas, sending them propelling into the city. A moment of humor hit him and he snickered at the thought that ran through his mind, "If ever there was a time for a light bar…this is it."

Sitting back as the contractions began to settle some, Calleigh breathed heavily and licked her lips. Seeing the slight smirk on his face, her brow crinkled and asked, "What's so funny?"

Hearing the edge in her voice, his smirk faded and he cleared his throat, "Uh…just thinking how this is the very moment where a light bar would be…productive."

Rubbing circles on her belly with both hands, Calleigh cracked a small smile, "Yeah, I guess it would be. That or have escorts."

"Yes, escorts would've been better," Horatio said as he scanned the night for any hindrances. Content that they were clear for the moment, Horatio pressed the gas further, "As long as we have a clear shot, we're going to be fine."

Relaxing back against the seat, Calleigh closed her eyes as her hands continued to move, "Did Kyle get hold of Tim?"

"Yes, he was able to get in touch with him. Alexx is going to look after Emma and then he was coming for Kyle." Taking furtive glances to her as she tried to relax, he asked calmly, "How are you doing?"

Opening her eyes and turning her head to him, she nodded, "There not as bad as they were…but I'm still having contractions." Adjusting herself some to try to get more comfortable, she sighed, "This was not how I wanted the evening to go."

Horatio nodded and then sighed, "I can imagine not, but as we're soon to find out, we no longer have our own schedules. It's going to be all about Cerise now."

A smile formed and Calleigh closed her eyes as it dwindled. Groaning as a stronger contraction started, she groused, "I didn't think it was supposed to be like this…"

As she groaned through another contraction, Horatio forced himself to focus more on getting them to the hospital. Turning the corner sharply, he began to relax as he recognized the surrounding area, knowing he was close. Reaching for her, he placed his hand on hers as it rested on her belly and assured her, "We're almost there, Cal."

Hearing that seemed to put Calleigh as ease some, but it was his him that she was getting her strength from. Breathing through the contraction, it began to ease off and Calleigh began to relax again. Shaking her head, she whispered, "I hate labor."

Horatio nodded and rubbed her belly more, coaxing her, "Just a little while longer, Calleigh. We'll be there soon." Speeding through the light traffic of the city, Horatio breathed a sigh of relief as he saw the hospital come into view. Relaxing more, he slowed as he entered the hospital campus and looked to her, smiling, "We're here, Cal."

Opening her eyes, Calleigh continued to hold her stomach as Horatio pulled up to the emergency room door. Doing her breathing to get through the small contraction she was having, she waited as he stopped the car and then jumped out, running around to her side. When he opened the door for her, Calleigh looked into his eyes as he bent down for her, "Don't leave me, okay?"

"Never," he pronounced as someone approached with a wheelchair. Holding on to her hand, Horatio acknowledged the nurse and spoke clearly despite the raging nerves, "She's experiencing contractions right on top of each other. She only got a few weeks left until delivery."

"Okay, we'll get her inside and get her checked out," the nurse replied with a light smile. Watching as the red head helped the blond young woman from the car, she waited as she sat down and then moved in front of her, fixing the leg bars.

"Ma'am, has your water broke yet?" the nurse asked as she moved back around and took off the breaks.

As they started to move, Calleigh shook her head and looked back for Horatio. Seeing him coming with her bag, Calleigh breathed out, "No…just…just contractions"

Catching up to them, Horatio placed his hand on her shoulder to let her know he was there. "We were relaxing and watching a movie when she started having contractions."

"Once I get her in a room in the ER I'll get her hooked up to the monitor and we'll see wheat we need to do from there," she replied as they went through a set of double door. Coming to another set, she typed in a code and the doors opened. Activity was everywhere and she pushed Calleigh over to the desk. Finding a room for her, she looked back at Horatio, "Sir, she'll be in room 12A if you want to go move your car so you don't get towed."

Looking down at Calleigh, Horatio shook his head, "I'll risk it. I said I wasn't leaving her."

Reaching for his hand, Calleigh looked up at him, giving his hand a squeeze, "Move the car, Horatio…then come back. I'll…I'll be fine for a few minutes."

Exhaling wearily, he squeezed her hand back and bent to her ear, "I'll be right back, okay?"

"Okay." Watching as he started off, Calleigh looked back up at the nurse and then back forward. Coming to a room, she was wheeled in and Calleigh continued to rub her stomach, trying to make it feel better.

Preparing the bed for the young woman, emergency nurse Joy Fields smiled widely and shook her head, "You know, you don't see this any more. It's obvious that he loves you very much." Taking a second to look at her, she smiled more, "If you don't mind me saying, you two look like a handsome couple."

"Thank you…" Calleigh replied softly as she tried to concentrate on something other then the contraction she was having. Breathing out several times, Calleigh looked to her, "Is it supposed to hurt like this?"

Joy shook her head and furrowed her brow as she then steered Calleigh toward the bed, "Sweetie, sometimes it hurts worse, but it all depends on the Mama. Some ladies experience no pain, others feel like they want to burn the world down. The pain is worth it though, especially when you see your little one for the first time." Putting on the breaks, Joy then moved to help her up and then settled her against the bed, "Mind if I ask what you're having?"

"A girl…" Calleigh groaned as her contraction spiked and then began to taper off. Looking at the woman as she laid back, her brow furrowed, "Shouldn't I be up in labor and delivery?"

"Well, your water hasn't broken, and there have been instances of false labor pains, called Braxton Hicks. They're usually painless and start by the sixth week of pregnancy, but once you get within the thirty six to thirty seven range, they can get intense. The difference is that Braxton Hicks contractions don't last as long as regular contractions and Braxton Hicks can be eased. Those monsters that signal labor, don't."

"Well these aren't going away," Calleigh complained as she held her stomach. Watching as the nurse moved around the room and wheeled over a machine, she laid her head back, "I'm not due yet…"

"I understand, that's why we're going to monitor you. This machine's going to track your contractions." Pulling out a gown, she placed it near her, "We're going to see just what's going on."

Looking over as the door opened, Calleigh smiled faintly as Horatio came back in with her bag in hand. Holding her hand out to him, she waited as he came to her and took it, squeezing his hand, "They're going to monitor me and see what's going on."

Squeezing her hand, Horatio settled next to her and sighed, "What are they thinking? Are you in labor?"

"They don't know yet," she replied softly as she glanced back over at the nurse. When she was handed the gown, Calleigh looked up at Horatio, "Can you help me get this thing on?"

Taking the gown in hand, he smiled, "Sure." Glancing at the nurse, he leaned in, "Is she going to be here for long?"

Shrugging, Calleigh looked over at the nurse, "Can uh…can I have some ice or something, please? Also, my doctor is Tamara Pierce…can she be informed I'm here?"

"Surely. I'll stop right where I am and go and get some ice for you, and notify your doctor." Joy moved towards the door and then looked back at the couple, smiling as she exited the room.

Horatio waited until the door closed and the smiled as he unfolded the gown, "I would've thought that you needed some privacy." Starting to take off her clothes, he caressed every inch of her skin to further calm her. Once done, he kissed her softly and helped her to lay down, "Now, you can relax more. How are you doing right now?"

"I'm still having contractions…but they aren't as bad as they were. They feel more like bad cramps right now," she said as she looked up at him. "I'm sorry for scaring you."

"It's alright, you didn't know. It's better that we are aware of what's going on." Sitting next to her, he took her hand and caressed it. "Look at it this way, you'll get to rest more."

Looking at there hands, Calleigh nodded and sighed, "I'm just worried about Cerise now though. I don't want her being born too soon."

"I know, sweetheart. I don't want anything to happen to her either." Interlocking his hand with hers, he squeezed, "We're going to be okay. Cerise is going to be fine."

Holding onto his hand, she looked up into his eyes, "I'm trying to stay positive." Hearing a knock on the door, she looked over to see the nurse along with another woman with a clipboard and plain clothes walk in. "What's going on?"

Still holding her hand, Horatio stood and arched a brow, "I'm going to find out." Clearing his throat, he directed his question to the woman in plain clothes, "Can I help you?"

Pushing her glasses up on her nose, the woman looked up from the clipboard and smiled warmly, "Ah, I'm Meredith Davis, from admissions. You missed us when you came in."

"Uh, yeah, sorry. I was trying to get my fiancé some help. What do you need from me?" he asked as he glanced back over to Calleigh and saw the nurse tending to her and getting the monitor hooked up.

"We can do this now, if you don't mind." Slipping the papers off of the clipboard, she handed them to him with a pen, "We'll need her employer's information as well as any insurance she'll be filing under."

"Okay." Taking the paperwork in hand along with the pen, Horatio moved over to the small counter and began to fill out everything. Glancing over to Calleigh, he saw the nurse placing the monitor around her belly and winked to her before pulling out his wallet for the insurance card. Once he was done and had signed the papers, he handed them back to the woman, "Anything else, ma'am?"

"No, that seems to do it," Meredith responded as she perused the papers quickly. Smiling, she glanced to Calleigh and smiled, "I hope things go well for you, and if you need anything, do not hesitate to ask."

Watching as the woman left and Horatio came back over to her, she took his hand again and gave him a faint smile, "All done I take it?"

"Yes, and at the risk of sounding like a broken record, how are you feeling?" Horatio sat down and took her hand into his and held it as he reached to move her hair from her eyes. He could see the weariness that was now present along with the fear and exhaled lightly, "Things are going to be fine, Cal. I promise."

"I know," she breathed out and looked over at the monitor. Seeing the spikes, she looked back at him, "Well, I guess we wait 'til my doctor gets here or Cerise decides to make more noise."

"Yeah, but I think that things are going to slow down for you. Cerise was just letting you know that she's on her way." Moving his hand to her belly, he smirked, "That and she wanted to ruin your night."

Chuckling some, she sighed, "Mission accomplished. I hate hospitals. I'd rather deal with Rick then be here." Placing her hand onto his she gave him a small smile, "You know, we still haven't set a date for the wedding."

"I know, I was thinking that after this little one's home, we can do it then. Something small, if you want." Horatio reached to move her hair out of her face and smirked, "Not that any of that would make a difference. I'd marry you tonight, if I could."

"Small is good for me…and tonight would have been even better," she smiled. "But, we need to get the license still. And I like the idea of being able to fit into a dress. I was thinking, why don't we have it on the beach there at the house? We could invite a few people and have the reception right there."

"I think that is a great idea. Nice and intimate," Horatio said gently. Silence enveloped them completely and he rubbed his face as he stared at her belly, the memory of the pain she was in at home coursing through him. No matter what he did, he couldn't take that pain away from her and that thought scared him.

Getting out the car with Horatio's help, Calleigh sighed with relief, happy to be back home. After spending the night in the hospital, they had been told she was in false labor and had been released that morning. Waiting as he pulled her bag from the back seat, Calleigh smiled as he came back and took her hand, heading towards the door.

Holding his hand, she smiled more as the front door opened and Kyle backed himself to the door, looking out at them. Snickering, she whispered, "I think someone is happy we're back."

"I think so," Horatio whispered back. He couldn't help himself as he snickered along with Calleigh, arching his brow, "Getting lonely there, Kyle?"

Pushing open the storm door the best he could for them, Kyle smiled, "Yeah, a little. So it was a false alarm then, huh?"

"Yes," Calleigh breathed out with a smile as they came to the door and Horatio opened it more for them. "But, the doctor said everything look's good." Waiting as Kyle began to move towards the living room, Calleigh followed behind him, "How's everything here?"

"Good. Speed called and checked in on me earlier. I think he was at a scene. There was sirens and all in the background before he hung up."

Horatio listened to their conversation as he placed the bag down in the hall, moving into the living room behind them. As Kyle turned to face them both, he saw the relief in his eyes and nodded, "I'll give Speed a call later to thank him. But as for you, how have things been going?"

Reaching into his pocket and pulling out a piece of paper, he nodded, "Good. I got a call from the VA an I have an appointment Friday morning at nine for x-rays and to talk with a doctor there about my leg. My records got to them finally."

"Friday…I think… Yes, I can take you if you would like." Horatio then got up and went into the kitchen to check the calendar, "Friday's free for me, Kyle." Returning back to the living room, he smiled, "I'll be ready to go at six."

"Six?" Kyle asked with a raise of his brow. "Dad, that's three hour's before I have to be there. I wasn't planning on getting up until like seven thirty."

"You have to register, don't you Kyle? That could be time consuming. You want to be on time for your initial visit. Once you get in the door, then you can loosen up on the time constraints." Horatio chuckled, "I know it seems to be a bit much, but that's how it works."

Sighing heavily and turning up his nose some, Kyle breathed out, "Okay. But can I just get up at six? Registration doesn't open 'til seven anyways."

"Certainly. I don't see why we can't push it back an hour." Going over to Calleigh he placed a hand on her shoulder and asked, "Are you okay? Do you need anything?"

"No, I'm good for now. I'm gonna go up and shower and change clothes though," Calleigh replied as she turned to him more. "When I finish up there I'll come back down and probably raid the fridge."

"Do you want me to prepare something? I can do that easily."

Thinking for a minute, Calleigh smiled, "Would a couple grilled bologna and cheese sandwiches be too much?"

"I don't see how it could be. You go and relax and I'll cook." Starting for the kitchen again, he called out, "Kyle, do you want something to eat?"

Following his dad to the kitchen, Kyle smiled, "Sure. I'll take a couple of what Calleigh is having also." Going in, Kyle moved his chair over toward the kitchen table and stopped, "So, is Calleigh and Cerise okay now? I mean, she won't have false labor again will she?"

Gathering the materials that he was going to need, he exhaled and shook his head, "We really don't know, but the potential is always there. But right now, I'm just glad to have her home."

"Yeah. I'm glad everything was okay. Speed was pretty worried too about them," Kyle replied as he watched his dad work. "Dad, can I ask you a question?"

Continuing to work, Horatio answered almost absently, "Sure, Kyle. What's on your mind?"

Looking down at his folded hands, Kyle shrugged some as he looked back at him, "Do you think you'll ever go back to the lab? You were great there and everyone there really liked you."

Stopping completely, Horatio closed his eyes and let out a long breath, allowing the words to filter through. The topic hadn't come back up once he made the decision not to go back, but now Kyle had brought it all to the surface again. Shaking his head, he answered, "I don't think I could do my job the way it needs to be done."

Nodding some in understanding, Kyle took in a deep breath, "I've been doing some thinking. I don't know if I want to go back to my unit, dad. I've been actually thinking about going back to school…to become a CSI." Looking up and seeing Horatio's expression, he shrugged, "I liked working there in the morgue and all…but I want to do more."

Unable to speak, Horatio nodded as he averted his eyes to the floor. Exhaling heavily, he scratched his head and finally found his voice, "Kyle…whatever you want…If this is what you want to do, I'll support you on it."

"It is, dad." Taking in a deep breath and releasing it, Kyle added, "More then likely I won't be able to go back to my unit. At least this way I'll still be helping people and doing something I really like." Releasing a breath, Kyle smiled, "You know it's funny. A few years ago I didn't have any goals…and I sure the hell didn't want anything to do with law enforcement or anything. It's funny how your outlook can change with good guidance."

"Sometimes, guidance is all you need," Horatio responded with a wistful smile. He wanted, more than anything to be the one to guide him to be the best CSI there was, to be a shining example of what the job would do for him, but now, that image was forever lost. Sighing, he looked up to Kyle and attempted a wider smile, "Whatever you need, son, I'll do my best to help."

"Thanks, dad. I'll defiantly need your help," Kyle replied as he gave him a smile. Moving closer to his dad, he chuckled, "Um, so you know, I'll be staying over at a friend's this weekend. He's on leave and called this morning. So you and Calleigh can be alone and not have to worry about me."

Horatio arched a brow and kept his eyes on him, "This friend…he's going to be able to help you?"

"Yeah, dad. He's cool, don't worry. He knows how I am now," Kyle replied as he turned his chair some more. "He's staying at his mom's place and it's equipped for wheelchairs already he said."

The desire to trust his friend was strong and despite the worry that began to eat at him, he nodded, "Okay. But, if you need anything, please…call. Calleigh will understand." A small smile came to his lips as he chuckled, "She's going to thank you though."

Laughing some with Horatio, Kyle sat back in his chair and then shifted his weight, getting more comfortable. When there laughter settled down, Kyle looked down and sighed, "By the way, thanks, dad."

Returning back to his tasks, he answered back, "No worries, son. I'm always here if you need me." Hearing her walking around upstairs, he glanced up and then moved faster. "She's going to want these soon. Care to help an old man out?"

Smirking, Kyle moved his chair closer, "You're not old, dad…but I can help. What you need for me to do?"

"Get the condiments for me. These are almost done," Horatio answered as he flipped the sandwiches. Moving quickly, he grabbed the plate and then waited for Kyle to return to finish the sandwiches off. Plating them, he heard her descend and then glanced to Kyle with a smile, "Thanks."

"No worries, dad." Holding his hands out, he nodded towards the plate, "Give it to me and I'll get it on the table for her."

Handing him the plate, he then started on his sandwiches, hearing her enter the kitchen. Turning, he saw her walking with her hand perched on her belly and the smile as it brightened, her gaze going hungrily to the table. He realized that the hospital food couldn't have possibly held her and he gestured to the plate, "Is there something else you want with this, sweetheart?"

Going over to the table, Calleigh gave Kyle a smile as he backed away from her spot and then looked back at Horatio, "No, this is perfect. Are you two gonna join me though?"

"I've got Kyle's working, but I'm going to take a shower. I'll eat later," Horatio said as he finished up. He brought the plate over to the table and grabbed a towel, wiping his hands clean. Bending to kiss Calleigh on her head, he smiled, "I'll be right back."

Picking up a sandwich half, Calleigh smiled up at him, "Okay. Kyle and I will keep each other company for awhile then." Taking a bite, she closed her eyes as she chewed. Opening them, she smiled and covered her mouth, "Sorry, but this is really good."

"Glad you like it. I'll be right back." Leaving them, Horatio made his way up the stairs and into the room to relax some.

Down in the kitchen, Kyle picked up a half and bit it, chewing vigorously. After swallowing, he ran his hand over his mouth and nodded, "This is good."

Nodding and swallowing, Calleigh got up to get a drink, "I grew up on grilled bologna and cheese sandwiches. My momma usta fix them all the time for me." Pulling out two glasses, she looked back at Kyle, "You want some milk with them too?"

"Sure, I'll take the milk." Watching as she got the milk, Kyle took another bite, "So, Calleigh…Cerise gave you a run for your money, huh?"

Chuckling some, Calleigh raised a brow, "Yes she did. Must be that Caine blood in her." Finishing up, she placed the milk carton back and brought over the glasses, setting his onto the table in front of him, "But, she's okay. Just getting ready to make her grand entrance soon."

"Just giving you a preview of coming attraction's. I'm glad you're okay though, Dad was pretty worried." Biting and chewing, Kyle nodded, "I…ah um…I'm going away for the weekend, so that frees up Dad."

Crinkling her brow as she picked up her sandwich, Calleigh looked over at him, "Where are you going?"

"A friend of mine is coming into town, I think I need to give you two a break. It's alright, I've talked to Dad already."

Taking a drink of her milk, Calleigh set the glass down and wiped her mouth with her napkin, "You know, Kyle, we enjoy having you here. You don't have to go if you don't really want to."

"No, Calleigh. I think that you and Dad need to take time for each other. Dad said if I needed him, I could call. Everything's alright though." Finishing his sandwich, he then took a swig of the milk and placed the glass down, "I think this break is something we all need."

"Okay, if that's what you want, Kyle. I understand." Taking a bite of her sandwich, she chewed slowly and looked over at him, "You know, you're dad and I are really happy you're here, Kyle. I uh…I was hoping we could get to know each other better before the wedding. And I also wanted you to know I'm not gonna try to step into your mom's place, but I am here if you ever need to talk."

Kyle nodded and averted his eyes, studying the table. For so long, he'd been without his mother or father, and when he finally found his way to them, the flurry of events that unraveled was unreal. He barely had time to understand his mother, yet, he loved her no less.

"Mom's going to be fine. And I know you mean well, Calleigh." Looking up to her, he smiled faintly, "But I'm willing to get to know you better."

Giving him a smile, Calleigh nodded, "And I want to get to know you better also. Anything you need, please let us know. We're family here, Kyle…and we're here for you."

"Thanks. I hope my situation doesn't last long, I don't like having nothing to do." Fingering the napkin, he smirked, "I'm used to being busy- having something to do."

"Well…" Calleigh said as she finished her sandwich, "what do you like to do? Maybe we could improvise or find something similar."

Kyle laughed and shook his head, his brows raising, "All of the things I like to do are bad. I'm trying to steer away from that. But what I do like to do is learn new things. I told Dad…That I wanted to be a CSI."

Calleigh's brow rose in surprise and a smile formed. Reaching over and patting his hand, she whispered, "You're in the right house for that." Sitting back again, she pointed to him, "If you want to learn, we can teach you what we know. I've got loads of journals you can read along with some stuff on the computer and even some of my old books."

"That will give me something to do when I get bored." Kyle laughed and then nodded, "I appreciate it, Calleigh. This is the boost that I need."

"I'll have your dad get my books from the office along with the journals. You can use the laptop as well. And if I remember right, I think I still have a few of the seminar packets I gave out when I had to teach a few classes."

"To have that, will be awesome! I can't thank you enough, Calleigh. This is a step in the right direction," Kyle responded genuinely.

"Anything we can do to help, Kyle, just let us know. And if there is anything you don't understand about any of it, just ask your dad or me and we'll explain it all to you," Calleigh said as she reached for his empty plate and got up, collecting hers. Taking them to the sink, she came back to him, "What you're doing…your father will be proud, even though he's already proud of you."

"Yeah, it was him I thought about when I decided to make a change." Turning to her more, he interlaced his hands and placed them in his lap, "Cal, can I ask you a question…do you think that Dad will ever go back to the lab?"

Coming back to her seat, Calleigh sat down and sighed heavily. She and Horatio had talked at great length about the matter many times and she shook her head as she looked down at her own hands, "I don't think so, Kyle. Your dad…he…he went through something very traumatic for him and then with the addiction, he just doesn't think he can do the job anymore."

"But he was so good at what he did. I just don't see how he can just turn that off. It's been apart of him for so long," Kyle said as he furrowed his brow. Shaking his head, he let a tuft of air escape, "It's in his blood…"

Hearing the conversation, Horatio paused before entering, listening to the confusion that was in his son's voice. He could admit that the idea of him not going back was puzzling, especially in regards to how much he did care, but he just didn't think he was strong enough.

Silently, he stepped into the kitchen and went for a glass before going to the refrigerator. He could feel their eyes on him and he exhaled wearily, "Um… to answer your question, son, I don't want to let the citizens of Miami down. If I'm not at my best, the city suffers, it deserves my best."

"But dad…you've practically beat this. You even said so yourself that you went to rehab and a sober house and got the help you needed. And you have me and Calleigh to support you now. How would you be letting anyone down?" Kyle asked with a furrow of his brow.

"I don't know what would come of me if I go out there into the world, what I would encounter, how I will deal with it. You can't be with me every second of the day, neither can Calleigh. I don't trust myself to be able to do what the job entails without lapsing."

"Then if the scene is drug related stay away, dad. There are other's that I'm sure would handle it for you," Kyle countered back as he watched his father. "Dad, you're a great CSI, and you can't tell me that deep down you don't miss it."

An anger flushed through him and he shook his head, "That doesn't matter, Kyle! The point is, I can't do the job, I'll never be able to d the job again…" He could feel his control slipping and moved from the counter and to the door, "I'm not the same anymore, Kyle. I'll never be the same man again."

Getting up from the table and going over to him, Calleigh placed her hand onto his arm, looking up at him, "Horatio, calm down. Kyle only spoke his mind cause he cares about you…like you do him. He wasn't trying to upset you."

"No one understands," Horatio answered quietly. Stepping away from her, he glanced to her and sighed, "I'll be outside."

Watching as he headed for the back patio door, Calleigh sighed heavily and turned back to Kyle. Going back to her chair, she sat back down, keeping her eyes down, "Your father doesn't think he can do his job anymore because of the addiction. He doesn't trust himself anymore."

Looking into the direction of where his father retreated, Kyle sighed heavily, "I didn't mean to make him upset, Calleigh, but I see it inside of him. He's not done with this at all. What he did…it's apart of who he is. He's denying himself."

"But it's also something we cannot push on him, Kyle. If and when your father feels like he can do the job, he'll probably go back. But until then, all we can do is support his decision."

"Even if it's wrong?" Kyle asked as he looked toward the door. He wasn't sure that he liked the fact that his father was so doubtful of his abilities, having only seen the strength that he had. Narrowing his brow with thought, he sighed, "It's just not him, you know?"

"I know, but this isn't something that we can push him to do. All we can do is hope for the best, Kyle. I miss him in the lab as I'm sure everyone else does…and I know how great he his. But, at the same time, I can also see his point." Getting back up, Calleigh looked down at Kyle, "Are you okay here for a little bit. I want to go check on Horatio."

Kyle nodded sullenly and then looked up at her, "Calleigh…I didn't mean to make him upset. I just don't like seeing him this way. It's not right."

"I know, Kyle…trust me, I know," Calleigh replied softly. Placing her hand onto his shoulder and giving his a light squeeze as she went by him, Calleigh took the same path as Horatio, heading out the patio door and down towards the shore.

Immersed in the sounds and feeling of the water as it crashed against the shore, Horatio blocked out the outside world, his thoughts burning through him. Constantly, he was dealing with what Adrienne had done to him, how it had caused him to lose everything that he identified with, and constantly, he felt as if a piece of him was missing. True, he had Calleigh, and she was his rock, but there was something, deep down to the core of him, that just wasn't there and he knew exactly what it was. The thrill of protecting the city he loved dearly was absent and with it, a portion of his vitality. Despite missing this, he still couldn't compel himself to trust himself.

Making her way through the yard, Calleigh spied his form down near the shoreline, watching the ocean as he always did when he needed to figure things out. Walking barefoot through the hot sand, Calleigh pushed back a few strands of hair behind her ear as the wind blew. Stopping just a few feet behind him, Calleigh could tell he was deep in though and wondered if she should go back in.

Deciding to not let him go through this alone, she broke the silence, hoping to help him, "Kyle didn't mean to upset you, Horatio. He's just worried about you."

Her voice broke over the roar of the sea crashing into the shore and his head bowed. His thoughts were sliced through by the concern that was interlaced in her tone and he rubbed his forehead as his shoulders sagging just that much more. Never did he want to incite worry from his son, the burden deepening his demeanor. Shaking his head, he sighed, "I…don't want him to worry about me. He's got to concentrate on getting better."

Taking in a deep breath of the ocean air, Calleigh continued to stare out, "He's gonna worry, Horatio...just like you worry about him. That's how families are when they love each other."

"It's just so hard," he whispered as he rubbed his head once again. He felt the need eating at him, knowing that another creature resided deep inside of him.

Looking over at him and seeing how unsettled he was, Calleigh moved to him, rubbing his upper back and tilted her head as she gazed up at him, "Talk to me, Horatio. I can see there is something else bothering you. What is it?"

His brow crinkled and he shook his head, "Kyle wasn't that far off. The desire to do the job hasn't left…I know I can't do it anymore. I don't trust myself…I don't trust myself out in the field…"

"Horatio, you have to learn to trust yourself again, sweetie. You're a good man, a wonderful man and a great father. But trusting yourself is something you have to work at. I've said I'd help you any way I can, and I mean it. I'm not gonna let you go through anything alone again."

Lifting his eyes to her, he moved slowly to envelope her within his arms, exhaling heavily, "You've always been my rock, Calleigh." Holding on to her tightly, he whispered, "Thank you."

Holding onto him, Calleigh closed her eyes and whispered back to him, "I love you, Horatio. Let me help you if you want to beat this next step."

Taking in her strength and warmth, he felt confident to pull away from her. Gazing into her eyes, her ran his thumb over her soft skin and nodded, speaking quietly, "I need your help, Calleigh. I need your help to get through this."

"Okay." Giving him a small smile, she reached up, running her finer down his jaw before leaning up on her toes, kissing him softly, she then whispered, "We do this together."

"Yes, together," he repeated as he pressed his forehead to hers. Relief washed over him and for the moment, the darkness receded, allowing the warmth of her support to cradle him. Moving his hand in circles on her back, he spoke softly, "This may be bad of me, but…I'm glad that Kyle's going away this weekend. I need you…"

Smirking some, Calleigh lifted her eyes to his, "I need you too. You know…we could…as long as we stay quiet and in the bedroom."

Arching his brow, he took that into consideration, "Do you think you could stay quiet?" Inching closer, he could practically feel the desire thrumming through her and smiled more. His hands drifted down further and whispered in her ear, "I can see how it can be nearly impossible."

Smiling more, Calleigh raised a brow, "I can burry my head into a pillow if need be. But, what about you? I know how vocal you get too."

"I'll find a way to restrain myself," he murmured as he dipped his head and allowed his lips to trace her skin, feeling the need more. "Would you feel bad if we…ah…now?"

Reaching for his hand, Calleigh whispered, "Let's get inside, get Kyle set on the laptop with some things to keep him busy with and then I think we'll be set."

Moving through the sand with a new motivation, Horatio pulled her gently along, "Come along, dear. We have some things to attend to."

Laughing lightly as Calleigh increased her pace, she held his hand tighter as the moved. Coming to the yard, she giggled and whispered, "You get the journals from the office and I'll get the laptop."

"And I'll meet you in the room," he responded as they reached the door. Pulling her close, he gave her an intense kiss before parting and winking at her, "See you in a bit, sweetheart."

"Okay," she replied as she smiled back at him. Going to the kitchen and finding Kyle still in there Calleigh went to him, "Hey, you feel like looking at some of that information I was telling you about? I was gonna pull out the laptop before I go up and take a nap."

"A nap?" Kyle asked as he arched his brow in confusion. Turning to face her completely, he looked towards the door, "Where's Dad? Is he okay?"

"He's fine now, Kyle. We talked and I'm gonna help him with some things. But, I think we're both tired from last night and I thought a nap would do us both good. I…I hope you don't mind."

"Okay, well, I can take a look at that material." Kyle nodded toward the office, "So, in the office or my room?"

"Well," Calleigh said as she started out the kitchen and looked back at him, "your dad is working on some things in the office…so you can look at them in your room or out here. We can even set you up on the patio if you want some fresh air."

"I think I'd like to go out on the patio. A few hours wouldn't hurt." Following closely behind her, he asked, "You're not going to need anything, are you, Calleigh?"

Crinkling her brow, Calleigh looked back at him, "Like what?" Opening the door back up, she slid it open fully and pushed back the curtains for him to go through.

"I don't know, some water or something? If you and Dad are napping… He won't be able to give you what you need."

Trying to hide the smirk as she moved one of the chairs from the patio table she shrugged, "I was gonna take a glass of juice up with me. I should be fine then 'til I get up."

"Oh…okay. Alright, well, I'll be fine out here then. If I need anything, I'll get it." Looking up to see her leaving, he nodded, "I guess all I need now is the materials."

"I'll get the laptop. Oh, and if you want, there are some pretty cool games on Facebook now. You might like a few of them. I know I'm hooked to a couple." Leaving him for a moment, Calleigh smiled as Horatio came into the living room with some journals in his hand. Giving him a smile, she whispered, "I told him we're taking a nap being we didn't get much rest last night."

Nodding, Horatio started for the door, seeing Kyle as he stared into the blue depths. A small smile came to his lips as he came closer, "Here are some journals. If you have any questions, save them and we'll discuss them."

Nodding, Kyle took them and then looked up at Horatio, his eyes crinkling in the sunlight, "Dad…about earlier. I'm sorry if I upset you…"

"There's no need to worry, Kyle. I still have some issues to over come, but I know that I'll be able to work through it. Calleigh's done so much to help. She really is strong."

Looking down at the books, Kyle looked back up at him again, "You know I'll help you too…if you'll let me. You've done so much for me, dad…I want to be able to do the same for you."

"I appreciate it, son. I really do," he answered back as he watched him stare at the books. Putting his hand on his shoulder, he squeezed it, "I have a long way to go before I'm back to where I was. Just…just give me time."

Looking back up at him, Kyle gave him a small smile and nodded, "Okay, dad. But I'm here to help too, okay?"

"Alright, son." Seeing Calleigh come back with the laptop, he caught her eyes and smirked as he felt the heat flood his face. Stretching, he moved toward the door and scratched his head, "Whatever questions you have, Kyle, we can go over later."

"Okay, dad. And don't worry about me. I'll probably be engrossed in these journals and on the computer for a few hours," Kyle replied as he set them onto the table and looked over as Calleigh hooked up the power cord.

Waiting for Calleigh, he nodded, "Don't stay out in the sun too long, Kyle."

Smirking, Kyle chuckled, "Dad, I was in far worse then this over there. This…this is comfortable. Hell, at least I can work on a tan while I study."

Horatio laughed and then shook his head. "Alright, well, you know where to find us if you need us." Reaching out for Calleigh's hand, he gestured his head slightly and grinned, "Happy studying."

"Thanks, dad. Oh, and Calleigh…don't forget your juice," Kyle said with a smile and then reached over for the laptop.

Smiling, Calleigh blushed slightly, "I won't, Kyle…thanks."

Going inside with Horatio, Calleigh smiled more and headed for the kitchen. Hearing him come in behind her, she looked back at him, "What?"

"What's with the juice? I thought we were going upstairs." Pulling her closer, he nuzzled her neck, his hands resting on the expanse of her belly, "We were going to…ah…relax?"

Turning her head to him, she smiled, "We are. Kyle was afraid if you fell asleep and I need something I wouldn't be able to get it…so I assured him I'd take a glass of juice up with me." Chuckling some, she whispered, "I didn't want to tell him that I'd have you occupied with my body."

"Well, that wouldn't do, would it?" Horatio asked as he nipped at her skin. Feeling her move out of his embrace, he sighed, "I'll get the juice. You go ahead up and…get ready for me."

Turning to him, Calleigh gave him a kiss and whispered, "I'll be waiting." Leaving him with a smile, Calleigh glanced towards the patio doors seeing Kyle already engrossed in the computer. Heading up the stairs, she smiled to herself, happy that they could spend some time alone with each other.