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"

Glancing at the clock, Horatio tapped his fingers on the bar, his eyes focusing on skyline, noticing that the sun was dipping lower and lower. Calleigh's last minute errand had been something of a miracle; he had wanted everything to go off without a hitch when he proposed to her, and sunset on the beach seemed like the ideal time. He had dinner waiting for afterwards, and the bedroom was prepared for what he hoped was a night of passion. Now all he needed was her.

Again he glanced to the clock and gave up on his watch, getting up to cross the room. The ring in his pocket jostled and he sunk his hand into the pocket to retrieve it. Holding it up, he smiled at the flawless cut of the diamond in a princess cut and exhaled at the thought of it on her finger. Hearing the door open, he slipped it back into his pocket and went to the hall just as she entered. He smiled more and quickened his step, taking her into his arms as soon as he reached her. Touching her lips gingerly, he pulled her bag from her shoulder and then let it drop, staring into her eyes as he parted from her.

"Finally, she comes back. I was getting worried, it was getting late," he whispered as he wound his finger on a golden strand.

Smiling up at him and wrapping her arms up around his neck as best she could, Calleigh looked up at him, "I'm sorry I took so long. You know how Alexx and I get when we go shopping." Giving him a kiss, she took in a deep breath, smelling the fragrant smells coming from the kitchen, "And from that wonderful smell, you've been busy in the kitchen."

"I have, but that can wait." Pulling away from her further, he took her hand, "Feel like walking with me on the beach?"

"Always. Just let me take my shoes off though. Toeing off her tennis shoes, she then moved them aside as took his hand again. Following him through the house and then out the back door, she pushed back her hair with her free hand, "So did Kyle get off to his friends okay?"

"Yes, he did. His friend came to pick him up earlier. He said he'd call if he needed any help, which he assured me that he didn't. He told me to have a good time this weekend." Arching his brow, he smirked slyly, "Little does he know how much of a good time I'm going to have."

"You mean we are going to have," Calleigh laughed as they walked through the yard and out onto the sandy beach. Taking in the blue waters of the Atlantic, Calleigh took in a deep breath and sighed, "I love the beach this time of evening. It's so calm and peaceful."

Turning them toward the west, Horatio exhaled as he stood behind her, the sun now losing its battle as it dipped into the horizon. The sky was lit with wisps of oranges and reds, the oncoming dusk painting a purplish hue. There was nothing for miles around, and that suited him just fine.

Wrapping his arms around her shoulders, he bent to her ear, "As beautiful as the sun setting is, it pales in comparison to you."

Leaning back against him, Calleigh smiled lightly and turned her head, looking up at him, "You always know when to say the sweetest things…and thank you." Looking back out, she relaxed more against him, "It's funny…this time last year, I would never have thought I'd have you in my life like I do."

"I know what you mean. Life a year ago…was…interesting. We were at polar opposites for so long…But I'm glad we found ourselves. I couldn't think about life without you." Slowly, he moved his hand and slipped it in his pocket. Pulling the ring out, he palmed it and nuzzled her hair, his eyes closing at the feel of its softness.

Blinking slowly as she gazed out, Calleigh placed a hand on the arm that was around her and tilted her head slightly, "And just think next year at this time, Cerise will be out here running around with us."

"Yes, she will." Turning the ring around, he opened his hand to hold it precariously between his index finger and middle finger. "I was kinda hoping we can start from here…Marry me, Calleigh."

Looking down at the ring he was holding, Calleigh took in a breath. Tears began to fill her eyes and she turned around to face him, a smile forming. As a tear trickled down her cheek and Calleigh nodded, whispering, "I'd love to, Horatio."

Reaching for her tear, he wiped it away, his brow crinkling, "Why are you crying?"

Looking into his eyes, Calleigh smiled, "'Cause I'm happy. I've never been this happy in my life."

Taking her hand into his, he slipped the ring on her finger and then looked to her, "I'm glad you're happy. I love you, Calleigh."

Lifting her gaze from the ring on her finger, Calleigh looked back up at him, "I love you too, Horatio…I'll always love you."

Horatio smiled and nodded, pointing to the sky, "You're missing the best part of it." When she turned to watch the last vestiges of sun disappear, Horatio wrapped his arms around her again and settled, nuzzling her neck, "You like your gift?"

"I love it, Horatio. It's beautiful," she replied as she lifted her hand, looking down at it and so he could see also. "It's perfect."

A small chuckle left his lips and he raised his brows, "I told Alexx that this was the one. She came along to help, but as soon as I saw that, I didn't have to look any further. It drew me instantly…just like you did all those years ago. I was stupid to let so much time pass before I told you how I felt."

"No…" she replied softly as she turned some and looked up at him, "We both were scared, that's understandable. The important thing though is that we did find each other…and all those years just made us stronger for each other."

"My love for you is as strong as it has ever been, Calleigh. Nothing's going to take me away from you again." Caressing her face lovingly, Horatio nodded, "We have dinner waiting. Are you hungry?"

"Yeah," Calleigh replied, her voice coming in a whisper. Reaching up and caressing the side of his face, Calleigh turned to him more and leaned in, giving him a kiss. Remaining close to him, she spoke softly, "I love you, Handsome."

"I love you." Closing his eyes, he relished the feel of her and then sighed, pulling away from her, he took her hand, "Come on, let's get you fed. You're going to need your energy."

A bigger smile made birth at his comment and Calleigh began to walk back towards the house with him. Wrapping her arms around his waist as they walked, she sighed, "So…are you gonna tell me what we're having for dinner?"

"I thought something light would do. Salad, baked fish. Does that sound good?" Coming to the door, he opened it and let her pass. His hand lingered on her body as she passed, smirking slightly. He watched as she moved gracefully through the living room as he followed, taking the time to shut the door and lock it. Making his way to the kitchen, he could smell the aromas of the meal as he glanced to her, practically seeing her salivate hungrily. Chuckling, he shook his head as he pulled the meal out of the oven, "I won't tease you any longer. Take a seat and we'll start."

Moving to the already set table, Calleigh took a seat and watched as he prepared there plates. Her eyes caught the glint from her ring and she looked down at it, another smile forming. Glancing back to Horatio, Calleigh raised a brow, "So what other surprises do you have in store for tonight?"

"Well, I had this idea that after dinner, I would love to see you modeling your new gift. I would like to see you in just that, nothing else." Arching his brow, his smile grew, "I'm hungry for more than just food tonight."

Laughing as he brought over their plates, Calleigh looked up at him and cocked a brow, "So I take it we're having dessert in our room tonight then?"

"The room, the living room…stair case. Wherever," Horatio answered with a wider smile. He then moved to her to give her a kiss, "It really doesn't matter the location…"

"Umm…sounds like a very interesting evening for us then. I guess we'd better get to eating so we can get started." Giving him another soft kiss, she smiled, "I don't want to miss a minute."

Taking a seat in front of her, Horatio kept his eyes on her as she began to eat. Taking his own fork in hand, he sampled the fish and nodded, "I was worried with the timing, but it seems that things have worked."

"This is wonderful, Horatio." Looking over at him, she reached with her other hand, placing it on his, "Thank you…everything's…perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better evening."

"Actually, it can be better…But I'll leave that for later." Gesturing to the plate, Horatio chuckled, "Eat up."

Nodding, Calleigh flaked off a piece of her fish and took another bite of it. Chewing slowly, she reached for her glass of tea, "Before I forget, Alexx told me to tell you hi and she wants us all over for dinner one night."

"That will be nice. It's been a long time since I've had dinner there." Lapsing into a small silence, Horatio ate the last of his meal and then watched Calleigh finish and sat back, his content evident.

Wiping her mouth and then reaching for her glass, Calleigh took a drink, her eyes gravitating to him. Giving him a smile as she placed her glass back, Calleigh moved her plate aside some and leaned onto the table, "Dinner was wonderful, Horatio. Thank you."

"You're welcome. I wanted it to be the best you've had." Reaching for her hands, he held them within his and smiled, "There is actual dessert if you want. Key lime pie, I thought it would be appropriate."

"How about…" she said as she moved her hands back and got up. Going over to him, she leaned down, giving him a soft kiss and then whispering, "We have dessert later? I'm ready to spend some alone time with a certain very handsome red head that I love."

"Well, this red head is ready to spend some time with his lovely, very pregnant fiancé." Bringing her closer, he smiled, "Shall we take this upstairs?"

"Upstairs…down here, wherever you want, Handsome." Standing back as he stood up and then brought her close again, Calleigh placed her hands onto his chest, lifting her head to him, "I don't care where we are at really, as long as you're with me."

Weaving his hand through her hair, Horatio's eyes followed his fingers, lost in the sensation of the silkiness falling through his grasp. He could feel the arousal growing and he moved slightly, pushing her against the table, "I think here is a good start then."

Their eyes remained on each other and Calleigh's hands went to the hem of his pullover shirt. Lifting it, she brought it up and then helped him lift it off and tossed it aside. Smiling some, her hands then ran over his chest, "I do also. Don't want to waste any time do we?"

"Not in the least bit," Horatio responded, his eyes sliding shut at the sensation of her touch. He then opened them to see her seductive smirk. With a smirk of his own, he began to tug at her shirt, lifting it up and away from her, tossing it away. Instantly, his hands gravitated to her full bosom, the heaviness of her breasts filling his hands copiously. His grin grew as he felt her nipples bud under the fabric, watching as her eyes slid shut in pleasure.

Massaging them, he whispered, "You're what I've wanted all day..."

Running her hand slowly over the expanse of his chest and then down to his belly, she came to his jeans. Slipping the button through the hole, Calleigh then lowered his zipper and slipped her hand inside and under the waist band of his boxers. Her fingers slid over his cock, feeling his arousal growing and wrapped her small fingers around him. "Now you can have me all night…and all weekend."

Horatio groaned as she began to stroke him, his hips thrusting minutely. Grappling for control, Horatio massaged her breasts more before allowing his hands to dip to her pants. His fingers traced a small pattern on her skin and he bit his lip as she stroked him harder.

"Calleigh..."

Watching him, Calleigh moved her other hand to his waist and began to work his jeans down slowly. Licking her lips, she whispered, "I need you, Horatio. I need you inside me…claiming me."

Her heated words pulled at his control and Horatio reacted, pushing her jeans down. Now that she was totally exposed his heart thumped in his chest rabidly. Licking his lips, he pulled away from her, the absence of her hand causing him to groan. He bent to take her jeans away completely and ran his hand up the expanse of her body, resting at the swell of her belly. Caressing it lovingly, he ascended and then reached behind her to slip her bra off.

Tossing it away, he smirked devilishly, "I want to take you right here."

Reaching for his jeans, Calleigh pulled them and his boxers down, watching as he stepped out of them. Smirking, she cocked a brow and placed a finger to her lips, biting it gently as she looked into his smoldering eyes. Cocking a brow, she reached for him, her fingers ghosting up his chest, "I'm ready for you, Horatio."

Coming back to her, he pushed the dishes away and then focused on her, his lips crashing to hers as his hand wove into her hair. Kissing her passionately, Horatio closed his eyes, trying to keep a reign on the surge of arousal that flowed through him. He was mindful of the restraints that her pregnancy provided but as he traced her lips with his tongue, he couldn't deny his desires.

Pressing against her, he groaned as he descended her body, parting her legs to allow him access. The heat of her sex called to him and as he neared, his mouth watered to taste her.

Perching herself on the edge of the table, Calleigh saw one of the chairs close and lifted her leg, placing her foot onto the seat. Closing her eyes as he kissed his way down her body, her hands went to his hair, running through the soft copper strands. As he reached her mound, she breathed out as he nuzzled her gently and then moaned deeply as his tongue washed over her skin.

Losing himself within her, he brushed against her lips, feeling her tremble, her aroma becoming stronger. Desire itched at him and he pressed forward, lapping at her slit, the taste of her hitting his tongue. It was like gas to a fire and he increased his actions, the sounds of her pleasure finding his ear.

Placing her hands behind her as she leaned back some, Calleigh's eyes closed as her hips arched forwards, giving Horatio more access to her. Crying out as he sucked and then flicked at her clit with his tongue, her breathing began to increase. Biting her lip, she then reopened her eyes, looking down towards him, "Oh God, Horatio, yes…"

Her leg that were perched on his shoulders pressed down in sheer abandonment, propelling him further. He took her relentlessly, as if he couldn't get enough of her, his own arousal being stirred from deep within. Reaching up, he spread her legs even more and moved to her clit as he traced his tongue down her slit, caressing the sensitive nub slowly.

Gasping in pleasure, Calleigh's head lulled back as she leaned back more onto the table. Closing her eyes, Calleigh bite her lip as she moaned, the feel on his tongue driving her crazy. Lifting her head back and barely opening her eyes to mere slits, Calleigh looked down at him, "H-Horatio…need you…"

The desperation in her voice ate at his control, and he dipped with fervor, lapping at her almost insatiably; he wanted her to lose control and crash over the edge. Her cries grew and he groaned as he lifted from her only to return to her clit, the tension in her body growing.

Lying back across the table, Calleigh writhed as Horatio's talented tongue continued to work her. Gripping the edge of the table, her breathing became ragged as she felt her body nearing the edge. With a few more flicks of his tongue and then his lips wrapping around her clit and sucking it, Calleigh arched up off the table, her cry of ecstasy all that could be heard throughout the house as her orgasm washed through her.

Taking all of her, Horatio slowed his actions and then pulled away, looking upon her spent body. Her eyes were closed as her chest heaved from the exertion and the ecstasy, causing his arousal to reach new levels. Allowing his hands to roam over her as he stood, he smirked lightly, "Are you okay, Calleigh?"

Barley opening her eyes as she swallowed hard, Calleigh licked her lips and nodded slightly, "Y-Yeah…" A small smile formed and her sights went up to his as his hands continued to move over her skin, "I still need you though."

"I was hoping that you wouldn't be finished." Pulling her up, he held her close, the sensation of her nipples scraping against his skin causing him to shudder. He smiled as he moved her hair away from her eyes and his touch lingered, tracing her cheek down to her jaw then finally over her lips, "The table is probably not a good place for you."

Gazing up into his cobalt blue eyes, Calleigh nodded slightly and spoke softly, "Where do you want me then?"

"Where would you be the most comfortable at?" he asked as his hands drifted down to her hips. His fingers walked over her skin and he smiled as her eyes closed slightly, "I'll make that decision for you." Leading her to the couch, Horatio laid down and pulled her close, encouraging her to straddle him, "This might be better for you."

Giving him a smile, Calleigh lifted her leg, placing it on the other side of him and eased herself down onto him. Watching as he rubbed her large belly, she tilted her head and smiled, "Here soon we won't have my stomach getting in the way of our love making."

Laughing lightly, Horatio continued to caress her belly as she dipped her hips, "It's been a part of us for so long now….I…oh God…Calleigh."

Continuing to move slowly, she then swirled her hips slowly before dipping them again, his cock filling her. Moaning softly, she whispered, "Talk to me, Horatio. Tell me how it feels."

Horatio's eyes slid shut as she moved on him seductively, the feeling of her sex encasing and clutching him driving him insane. A moan slid from his lips as he licked them and his hands gripped her hips as he said breathlessly, "It…feels…so…fucking good."

With her inner muscles, she gripped him more and rotated her hips slightly, pulling another moan from him. Reaching down and scraping her nails down his chest, she raised a brow, "Tell me everything you want, Horatio."

Losing himself in her, he smiled deviously as he thrust his hips up causing her to gasp. Gripping her hips more, he slammed into her again and whispered, "You…screaming…" Pulling his knees up, he began to meet her thrust and could feel her tensing up and then relaxing rhythmically. The more she moved, the more he countered, her cries growing once more.

Reaching back behind her and holding onto his legs for support, Calleigh began to move up and down on his cock, impaling herself as he thrusted up into her. Crying out, her head lulled back and her chest pushed put as waves of pleasure rippled through her. Biting her lip, she lifted her head, looking down at him and moaned, "Love…you…"

"Love you," he breathed out heavily. Her release provoked his own and he clenched his teeth together as he thrust deeper. Even though she was spent, he could still pull her into the throes of ecstasy, pushing to hit her spot. Success found him as he thrust deeply, an unnatural scream being his reward. Her blissful laden cries stirred his arousal and he stiffened as he pumped her full of his seed, growling as he spent himself. Once finished, Horatio gasped, his eyes closed, "Calleigh…"

Trembling still from her orgasm, Calleigh began to slow her moments until she stilled above him. Breathing heavily, her eyes remained closed as she rested back against his legs some. A shiver ran through her and Calleigh slowly opened her eyes. Her gazed fell down to him and she reached, placing her hand onto his at her hip, "God, you're wonderful."

Horatio caught her gaze and turned his hand to grasp hers, "No more wonderful than you are. The things you do with your body…" Exhaling contently, he caressed her belly and smiled, "You are beautiful, Calleigh."

Smiling some and looking down at his hand as he continued to rub her belly, she smirked, "Keep talking like that and I might think you'll like me being pregnant more often."

"I have to admit, this does turn me on," Horatio chuckled as he took her hand into his. Lifting it, he raised his brows at the ring, "That's some ring you have there, Ms. Duquesne. I have to say, it's the one thing I want to see you in for the rest of the night."

Smiling more, Calleigh raised a brow and licked her lips, "Well, Mr. Caine…I'm sure that can be arranged for you. Anything else you'd like?"

Licking his lips, he arched a brow, "To taste you again, but that's in due time. I'm sure you won't mind it, will you?"

"Not in the least bit," she purred as she smiled down at him. "But, I was thinking…how about we go upstairs and get a shower and freshen up some? Then uh…we can continue with our night of pleasure."

"I love that idea," he answered, kissing her fingers one by one. Smiling, he nodded, "I've been thinking about a shower all day."

"Then I say we don't waste another minute and get up there then," she replied softly and then brought his hand up. Taking his forefinger between her lips, she gently sucked it and then let it slid from her lips, "There's time for more of that as well elsewhere on you too."

Transfixed by her, Horatio swallowed hard as she moved her hip's minutely. A slow smile made berth over his lips and he exclaimed lightly, "You're going to be the death of me."

"Well, if you rather me not…"

Stopping her he frowned, "I'd rather die than not have you in my arms, Calleigh."

Holding onto his hand, Calleigh shook her head, "You'll never be without me, Horatio…I won't let that happen. You're stuck with me forever."

"I make that same promise to you. I'll always be here for you, Calleigh. No matter what, I'll fight to stay right by your side." Horatio lowered his legs and then sat up, holding on to her, "Life's just not worth it without you in it."

Placing her fingers from both hands onto each side of his chin, Calleigh leaned forward, kissing him and then whispering, "Let's go upstairs, Handsome. We still have a lot of celebrating to do."

"I'm all for that." Helping her up, he then stood himself and took her hand, leading her to the stairs. "We have the whole night…"

Walking alongside him, Calleigh looked up at him and smiled, "We have the whole weekend, Handsome."

"That we do." Walking up the stairs, Horatio felt his heart warm at the thought of forever with her.

Moving around the house, Calleigh carried the small pile of clothes in her arms and to the laundry room. After spending most of the weekend making love with Horatio, they had gotten up early that morning and taken a walk on the beach before coming back and fixing breakfast. When Kyle had called, ready to be picked up, Horatio insisted she stay home to rest while he made the trip across town to retrieve his son.

Placing the dirty clothes into the washer, Calleigh then started it and headed out back into the kitchen. The sound of the doorbell caught her attention and she padded barefoot out to the front door, smiling at the man on the other side of the storm door. Unlocking it, she opened it fully, smiling, "Hey, Tim. I thought you had to work today."

"I did," Tim answered as he moved further in, "I just stopped by to see H. Is he by any chance here?"

"No, he had to go get Kyle from his friends," she said as she let the storm door close. Leading him towards the living room, she looked back at him, "Is there something I can help you with though?"

"I just wanted to come by and talk with Horatio. Maybe ask him if he's reconsidered coming back." Tim saw as she stopped and then looked to him with an expression filled with uncertainty. Arching a brow, he asked, "What…did I say something wrong?"

Taking in a deep breath and releasing it, Calleigh raised a brow and sighed as she went over and took a seat on the couch, "Tim…now might not be the time to be asking him that." Looking back up at him and seeing his confused expression, she continued, "Last week, Kyle asked the same practically and Horatio he…he doesn't feel as if he can trust himself there at the lab…or even in public really."

"How does he know if he hasn't tried, Calleigh? He hasn't given himself the chance to see. He stays here almost all the time, he's not trying." Running his hands through his hair forcibly, he shook his head, "He's given up on any type of life for the sake of being safe. Are you okay with that?"

"No, but I also cannot push him to do something he doesn't want to," Calleigh relied back as she stared at him for a moment and then looked away. "Tim, I can't force him to go back to the lab."

"You can't force him to go back to the lab, but you can suggest he start living again. Being sequestered here isn't living, he's not facing anything here." Tim couldn't help the anger that seeped through and shook his head rakishly, "He's hiding out in the hopes that he'll never have to face anything."

Feeling her temper beginning to flare up, Calleigh tried to rein it in and got up, turning to him fully, "Is this all you wanted, Tim? Cause if it is, then this conversation is over. I have things I have to do."

Getting up, Tim spoke through clenched teeth, "You can deny it all you want, Calleigh, but you miss the man that Horatio used to be. You're too afraid of losing him to help him. He's going to be a lost cause if he continues to hide behind these four walls. He has to experience life again to live it, Calleigh." Turning half toward the door, Tim waved her off, "Don't worry about mentioning me coming over."

"Don't worry, I won't," Calleigh growled out, glaring at him, "And don't bother with coming back here either."

"I thought that would be your response," Tim answered lowly. Without another word, he left the home, closing the door tightly behind him. He had wanted nothing more than to have his friends back, but it seemed as if he'd lost them anyway.

Running her hand through her hair, Calleigh paced back and forth around the living room. With a clenched jaw, she mumbled under her breath, and had been at it for sometime when Horatio returned with Kyle. Not hearing the two come in, she continued to move, off in her own world for the time being.

Coming into the living room and seeing Calleigh pacing mercilessly, Horatio arched his brow in confusion. He could feel the charge of tension in the air, and wondered what had taken place in his absence. Moving to stand in her path, Horatio reached out to her to stop her.

"Calleigh, what's going on here? What's wrong?"

Glancing over and seeing Kyle moving towards the hallway to go to his room, Calleigh looked back at Horatio, "We need to talk…privately, Horatio."

Seeing the seriousness of her expression, Horatio nodded and then gestured to the stair case, "We can talk in our room."

Nodding, Calleigh headed towards the stairs with him in tow behind her, her own temper still at the boiling point. Going up, she made a straight line for there room and went in. Starting to pace again as he came in and closed the door, she sighed, "I kicked Tim out."

"What?" Horatio exclaimed as he followed her. Growing annoyed, he stepped up to stop her and placed his hands on her shoulders, "Calleigh, stop. What do you mean, you kicked Tim out? He was here? Why?"

Taking a deep breath, she shook her head, "He came to see you…to see about you coming back to work at the lab. I explained things to him and well, next thing I knew we were fighting. Then I kicked him out and told him not to bother coming back."

Allowing his hands to drop away from her shoulders, Horatio stepped away from her and went to the window, staring out at the vast blue ocean. A heaviness seemed to over take him and he exhaled heavily as he spoke, "What exactly did he say to you, Calleigh? It's got you very upset."

Unsure of how much she should tell him, Calleigh shook her head and went over, sitting down on the edge of the bed, "It doesn't matter now, Horatio. I handled it and he won't be back."

Feeling himself growing annoyed, he bit out, "Just tell me, Calleigh. I'm a grown man." He clenched his fist tightly and shook his head, "What's the worst that could happen?"

Looking down at her hands, her brow crinkled and she looked over at him, "Just promise me you won't do anything first, Horatio."

"What exactly am I going to do, Calleigh?" Horatio asked as his tone grew grave. He stared at her and shook his head, "You think after everything…I'll fall off the wagon?"

"Don't you dare go putting words into my mouth, Horatio!" Calleigh replied as she stood back up and her temper flared. "If I ever thought that do you think I would have came back to you?"

Horatio averted his eyes and exhaled, wearily, "I won't do anything stupid, Calleigh. Just tell me what Speed said."

Running a hand through her hair again, she sat back down heavily onto the bed. "I told him the reason you don't want to go back…and he…he doesn't think your even trying. He thinks you're trying to just play it safe by staying home and not getting out there and trying to get the trust in yourself back."

Horatio looked to her and then shook his head, a small tuft of air escaping his lips, "You know, he's half right. I have been hiding out- afraid of what would happen if I tried to go out." He met her gaze and gave her a wistful smile, "That doesn't mean that I don't have the desire, Calleigh."

Shaking her head, Calleigh got up and went over to him, "Then why don't you go out and try, Horatio? You know any of us would go with you if you wanted. You have loads of support."

Placing his hands on her hips, he kept his head bowed and sighed, "I was planning on approaching you about it today. I wanted to go out tonight, just to see." Lifting his eyes, he smiled, "I wanted to take you out tonight."

Searching his eyes and seeing a flicker of hope there, Calleigh nodded silently before speaking, "You know I'll go anywhere with you, Horatio. I'm not gonna let you do this alone."

Horatio took her hand and held it tightly, "I want to be the man you fell in love with, Calleigh. I know that right now, I'm not, but I also know that I have the power to change that."

Taking in a deep breath, Calleigh looked down at their hands and then back up at him, her head tilted some, "Horatio, no matter what, I'll always love you. Nothing will ever change that." Squeezing his hand, she sighed, "I take it I burned a bridge I shouldn't have with Tim."

"No, I don't think so. I think that after he calms down, he can be talked to." Cupping her chin, he smiled lightly, "I'll run interference. This was about me after all."

"I'm sorry. I guess I just got over defensive," she replied softly. Taking in a deep breath and releasing it, she shrugged, "So…where did you want to go tonight?"

"I was thinking somewhere nice to eat. It would be nice to go out to eat, wouldn't it?" Horatio looked to her and tilted his head, "I haven't had the chance to treat you to a night out yet."

"I'd like that," Calleigh replied softly as she gazed up at him. Giving him a small smile, she whispered, "And after dinner? Maybe a walk along the pier if you're up to it?"

"I think a walk on the beach will do us some good." Horatio leaned to kiss her and then pulled away from her, smiling, "Any ideas on where you want to go?"

Thinking for a minute, a smile rose on her face, "How about El Nortia's? It's there along the boardwalk and right down from the pier."

"That sounds great. Seven sound good to you?"

"Seven sounds perfect." Moving up onto her toes, she gave him a kiss and smiled, "I love you."

"I love you," he whispered back as he caressed her face gently. He stared at her for long moments and smiled softly, "You've been more than I could've ever asked for."

Reaching up and sliding both hands around his neck, she raised a brow, "And you're my everything, Handsome."

Astounded by her words, Horatio chuckled softly and exhaled, moving to embrace her. He never felt as needed as he did in that moment, her acknowledge of how important he apparently was to her filling him completely. The words didn't want to come at first, but he cleared his thoughts and smiled more as his hands slipped between them, caressing her belly, "You've given me so much of you, I don't know how to repay you."

Pulling back some and letting him have better access to her and their daughter, Calleigh whispered, "Just love us, Horatio…that's all we want. We'll always be here for you."

"Now, that, I can do," Horatio answered confidently. He continued to stroke her belly reverently, the love evident in his voice, "I can't wait for her arrival."

"We don't have much longer now. Soon, she'll be here and in our arms," Calleigh replied softly as she looked down and watched his hands. Looking back up at him, she smiled, "She'll probably have us wrapped around her finger."

"She already does," Horatio answered back with a smile. Lifting his eyes to her, he gazed into the green jewels that glittered with love and understanding and nodded, "I don't mind, I'm glad it's her that has the hold on me and not something else."

"I am too," Calleigh replied sincerely. Reaching up and running her fingers through his hair, she smiled, "She and Kyle are the best reasons to never go down that path again. And they are a good focus point to help with getting back out there and trusting yourself."

He knew she was right, he had to gain that trust within him again to be able to find his way back to his life again. The ties that he felt to his family were strong, and he knew that they would be there for him, but he felt the fear of letting them down, the most.

Averting his eyes, he nodded minutely, "I just want to be here for you and our children."

"You will be, Horatio. We have faith in you," Calleigh replied softly as her fingers played at the nape of his neck. Giving him another smile, she whispered, "I have faith in you."

Wrapping his arms around her, he pulled her close, "That means a lot to me, Calleigh. It really does."

Hugging him as best she could, Calleigh closed her eyes, "I just know deep down you can do it, Horatio. You're a lot stronger then you think you are."

"I'm banking on that." Holding her, he caressed her back, tracing light patterns as he whispered, "I think you and Speed need to talk."

"Tomorrow…after he's calmed down some," she replied softly as she melted under his touch. Relaxing in his arms, she sighed contently, "I just want to spend the rest of the day and tonight with you."

"You have that no matter what, Calleigh." Smiling he exhaled lightly, "So, until seven, what would you like to do?"

Looking towards the alarm clock and seeing it was still really early, Calleigh looked back up at him and began to unbutton his shirt, "How about we take a little nap together? Relax?"

"I like that idea, very much." Horatio kept his eyes on her fingers as she took every button and then looked to her with a smile, "I'm going to miss these naps when Cerise is born."

Tilting her head some as her hands moved up his chest and to his shoulders, pushing the shirt off and then down his arms, "Who says they have to stop? I'm sure she'll nap, which means we can too."

"True," Horatio allowed as her hands smoothed over his skin. He closed his eyes and relished her touch as her fingers traced back up his arm. Opening his eyes to slits, he asked, "Are you sure you just want to rest?"

Smirking some, Calleigh ran her hands over his chest and then down to his pants, "Well, I'm sure we could find something else to do. What do you think?"

"I think…" he started as he moved his hands down to her shirt, "I think that we can find something to do." Pulling the shirt over her head, he tossed it aside and smirked, "Two clever adults should be able to think of something, don't you think?"

"Oh I defiantly think so," Calleigh smiled as her hands went back to his jeans and began to unbutton them and then slid the zipper down. The sound of his cell ringing caught there attention and Calleigh leaned her forehead onto his chest and closed her eyes, "This isn't fair…"

Holding her close, Horatio sighed heavily, "I have no idea who that is, but it better be important." Reluctantly, he pulled away from her and bent to retrieve her shirt, handing it to her, "I hope that this doesn't kill the mood."

Taking her shirt in hand, she moved to the bed and sat down as he pulled his cell from his jeans pocket, "It'd better be important or else they can deal with me."

Horatio chuckled as he flipped his cell and placed it to his ear, "I'll be sure to tell them." Turning his attention to the phone he answered, "Caine."

Moving away from the building, Jesse lowered his voice, hating having to call his former boss, "H, it's Jesse…I hope I'm not calling at a bad time."

Furrowing his brow, Horatio looked to Calleigh and shook his head, "Ah…Jesse, I was kind of in the middle of something, but…what do you need?"

Stopping and looking back towards the lab, Jesse brow furrowed and he sighed, "Sorry for the interruption, but I thought you might want a heads up. Stetler's been digging and took some information to the chief on you. He's trying to have you discredited and fired, Horatio."

"What type of information?" Horatio asked, feeling the anxiety coming in waves. Holding on to the phone, he closed his eyes and rubbed his temple, his voice becoming weary, "I can only think of one or two things. Is he there now?"

"Yeah. He's got Speed and the Chief along with a few department heads in a meeting. Speed wanted you to have a heads up on it. H, he thinks Rick might have found out about the rehab center and sober house."

"How could he have found out about that?" Horatio asked, his voice raising. Running his hands through his hair, he started to move, going to the closet. Flinging the doors open, he asked almost angrily, "Who gave him this information? Someone had to have talked." Haphazardly, he pulled a suit out and slammed the closet door hard. He couldn't believe that this was happening, his world was imploding once more, and he didn't know if he could stop it.

"I don't know, H, but Rick's been doing a lot of snooping since you've been gone. Speed and I were even trying to run interference for you in hopes he'd back off." Sighing heavily, Jesse ran his hand through his hair, "Speed took in the case file on Adrianne McIntyre in hopes of convincing the Chief otherwise."

At the sound of her name, Horatio froze completely and shook his head, staring down at the floor beneath him. His worst nightmare was coming alive and he felt his control slipping from him. Feeling her touch, he came back to himself and then exhaled heavily, "I'm on my way, Jesse."

"Okay, H. I'll be watching for you," Jesse replied as he turned his back towards the building. Shaking hi head, he sighed, "I'm sorry about this, H…we've done everything we can from our end."

Allowing himself to calm somewhat, Horatio exhaled, "No worries, Jesse. You've done more than enough. I'll be there soon." Hanging up unceremoniously, Horatio flipped the phone down and gripped it, her soothing touches unable to hold their grasp on him. Stepping out of her touch, he went to the bed and flung his suit down along with the cell and bent to pick up his shirt. Without turning to Calleigh, he spoke stiffly, "I'm sorry, I have to…to leave. Stetler's making his play."

Watching his movements and seeing the tension residing within him, Calleigh licked her lips and then began to head to the closet, "I'm going with you."

Horatio went after her and took her by the arm and held fast, stopping her forward motion. He could see the confusion morph into determination and shook his head, stepping closer to her, "Calleigh, this is my battle to fight. I don't want you anywhere near this- you have to rest." Placing his hand on her belly, he rubbed it gently, "You're too close for anything to upset you. Please, stay."

Looking up at him, Calleigh could see in his eyes he needed to do this alone and sighed heavily. Looking down and blinking slowly, she then looked back up at him, "Promise me that if you need me you'll call."

"I promise. I'll call you if I need you. When I'm done there, I'll come home." He lifted his hand to caress her cheek and then leaned to give her a kiss. Pulling from her, he cringed slightly and then sighed, "Then maybe we can get back to our plans of relaxing."

"Okay." Letting him go, she watched as he went back over and began to dress. Looking to her shirt in her hands, she slipped it back on and went over to the dresser. Opening the top left drawer, she pulled out his ID badge and gun, and then closed the drawer back. Turning, she went over and placed them down onto the bed, "You'll need these."

Staring at his badge and gun, he nodded, speaking quietly, "Thank you, Calleigh." Finishing dressing, he slipped the badge on and fastened the holster to his belt. Picking up his suit jacket, Horatio looked to her, seeing the concern, "It's alright, Calleigh. I'm going to be fine."

Moving to him, she gave him a hug and whispered, "I love you. I'll be here if you need me."

The feel of her warmth enthused him and he nodded, "I love you too. Please don't worry about me." Letting her go, he walked to the door and then turned half toward her with a small smile, "I'll be back before you know it."

Nodding, Calleigh took in a deep breath and forced a smile, "Okay. Be careful…and don't let Rick get under your skin. He's not worth it."

Horatio nodded and then turned to leave, his thoughts on what was about to happen. Making his way down the stairs, he grabbed the set of keys that were on the table in the foyer and headed for the door. The anxiety began to flood through him, despite his attempts to abate it. He had no idea what he faced when he got to the lab, but he was determined not to let it get the best of him.