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"

After spending all of his time with Calleigh and Cerise, Horatio gathered himself and prepared to go and see his family who was waiting for news. It had been hours since he'd last been outside the room and now he was going to face his family and friends a new father. The idea seemed to rest within in him easily and he smiled as he turned the corner, heading for the waiting room.

Approaching, he could see them as they sat together, smiles and laughter wafting between them. The sight of such happiness filled him even more and he exhaled heavily, casting his gaze downward before lifting them to push through the door. The instant he entered into the waiting room, Horatio was greeted with a chorus of questions.

Tim lifted his eyes from his conversation with Alexx to see him entering, his smile wide. He could tell instantly that the event had happened and everything was fine. Standing, he came to Horatio and asked with a smirk of his own, "So...Dad. How's everything?"

Looking down some, his smile grew before looking back up at Tim and nodding, "Great actually. Calleigh and Cerise are both doing fine. Calleigh's resting right now and Cerise is in the nursery."

"So…tell us about everything," Alexx chimed in as she joined the two men, her own smile unable to be contained. Moving to embrace Horatio she remarked quietly, "It had to have been an interesting experience for you."

Giving Alexx a hug and chuckling, he then released her and slipped his hands into his jean pockets, "Interesting isn't the word, Alexx. I think I was scared enough for all of us to be honest. But, Calleigh did a great job and had no complications. She was just pretty tired afterwards. The doctor says that's normal for some women."

"But what matters is that Cerise is here and she's fine. Has Calleigh been able to hold her yet?" Alexx smirked and shook her head, "You can barely contain yourself, Horatio. It looks good on you."

Smiling and nodding, Horatio sighed happily, "Calleigh held and nursed Cerise before going back to sleep. She hadn't been sleeping all that well this week, so it's good she's getting some now."

Looking over as Kyle rolled his chair over with Emma on his lap, Horatio smiled, "Getting a head start on what to be prepared for with your sister, Kyle?"

"Yeah, Emma's giving me the finer points of being a big brother. She's getting me straight on everything." Kyle smiled and moved to tickle Emma, "She says she's going to be checking up on me, right, Em?"

Laughing, Emma wiggled around on his lap and nodded her head, "Uh huh! Kyle has to be good to baby Cerise and make sure he reads to her and plays with her too."

Light laughter filled the room and Horatio knelt down, looking to Emma, "Well, I'm sure you'll teach him well them, Emma. How would you like to go see Cerise in the nursery?"

Emma's eyes grew wide and she got down off Kyle and ran over to Tim, jumping up and down, "Can we daddy, can we daddy? Can we go see baby Cerise and take her, her presents?"

Looking down, Tim nodded, "Yes, we sure can, but you're going to have to leave the presents. There's going to be a better time and place to give them to Ms. Calleigh and Cerise."

Looking up at him, Emma's brow crinkled and she asked, "But what if someone else takes them while we're gone, daddy? We can't leave them here."

"I can stay behind and watch them," Alexx chirped as she looked to Horatio, "I'll have plenty of time to see Cerise. You go ahead on, sweetie."

"Okay, Alexx." Looking to the other, he smiled, "Well, I guess it's time to introduce you to Cerise then. She's in the nursery now, so we can go there to see her. I want Calleigh to rest for now."

Taking Emma's hand, Tim nodded, "That's understandable, she's been through a lot."

Walking towards the door with them following, Horatio opened it and held it open, letting them pass and then Kyle. Once he was through the door, he pointed in the direction of the nursery, "I'll see if they will let me bring Cerise out for a little bit. You'll be amazed at how beautiful she is."

"Oh, I'm not in the least bit surprised," Tim answered with a smile. Walking slowly with Emma at his side, he looked to Horatio and sighed, "Was it really bad for her?"

Thinking back, Horatio raised his brow and nodded, "Yeah. She had some bad contractions and that along with not sleeping well all week, it all exhausted her. That's why I'm letting her rest as much as possible."

Tugging on her father's pants, Emma asked, "Daddy, what are contractions?"

Tim chuckled and arched his brow, "Well, sweetie, it's what happens to help mommies have babies. It's very painful and can make mommies tired."

Frowning, Emma glanced down and asked, "Is it like playing real hard all day?"

Chuckling some, Horatio looked to the little girl, "Kinda, sweetheart. And right now, Calleigh is sleeping so she won't be tried anymore." Coming to the nursery window, Horatio went over to the right of it, spotting Cerise in her bassinet immediately. Smiling, he motioned them over and pointed to Cerise, "There she is…in the middle, second to the right."

Tim lifted Emma and pointed, "See…there she is, kiddo. Do you see her?" Marveling himself, he sighed and nodded, a small smile coming to his lips. "Still in doubt about who her father is, H?"

"Never…" Horatio replied with a smile as he gazed at his daughter. Looking to Tim, Horatio nodded his head, "Thank you for all you've done for me, Speed. Without your help I wouldn't be here now with them."

"You'd do the same for me," Tim answered with a shrug. "I'm just glad that you were able to get yourself together to be here. They are going to need you."

Watching the babies, Emma giggled, "Daddy, I want one. I want a sissy …"

Laughing, Horatio clapped Tim on the shoulder, "Look's like you have a special request, Speed. I'll be right back. I'm going to bring her out for a little bit."

Glancing at Emma he shook his head, "Emma, we're going to talk about this later. Right now, we need to concentrate on Cerise. Isn't she pretty?"

"She's very pretty, Daddy." Watching as Horatio went into the nursery, she smiled, "I still want a sissy, Daddy."

Going into the room's small waiting area, Horatio smiled as the nurse came out to him. Letting her check his ID tag that they had given him to wear, he then waited as Cerise was brought out to him. When she was rolled out in the portable bassinet, he took over from there and moved her out into the hallway where the others were waiting. Looking to Kyle, he moved Cerise to him and smiled, "Say hello to your sister, Kyle."

Kyle gazed at the bundle in the bassinet and sighed, a light smile coming, "She's beautiful, Dad." Reaching to touch her cheek, he looked up at his father, "Dad…she's gorgeous, what are you going to do?"

Chuckling some, Horatio shook his head as he gazed down at her, "Well, son…look's like you and I are gonna have a huge job when she get's older. Until then, we love her, give her what she needs and teach her right."

Retaining his gaze on Cerise, Kyle nodded, "Consider me up for the job then. She's going to know how it feels to be cared for and loved. And now that she's got a big brother, she's gonna be protected."

Happy to hear Kyle's statement, Horatio reached down and carefully picked up Cerise. Adjusting her into his arms, he then moved into front of Kyle and smirked, "Ready to hold her, son?"

Kyle's smile dropped completely as he shook his head, the fear flooding through him like a wave. "No…no, Dad. I can't…I don't know how."

"Kyle…" Horatio said softly as he looked to him. "It's okay. You're not going to hurt her and it's really easy. Trust me on this. If I can do this, I know you can as well. Just hold your arms like mine…that's all."

Taking in Horatio's arm position, he looked to him hesitantly as he approached with his sister. He could feel the apprehension building as she was placed in his arms. Adjusting slowly, he held his breath until he was settled and then smiled, exhaling as the smile eased back on to his lips, "This is…pretty easy."

Looking down at her sleeping form, Kyle spoke softly, "Hi, Cerise, I'm Kyle…I'm your big brother."

Watching his children together, Horatio's heart filled with pride. Glancing to Tim and Emma as they moved closer, Horatio smiled as he looked back at his son and daughter, "I never imagined it'd be like this, Speed. You know…the happiness."

Holding Emma closer to him, he nodded, "It's something you can get used to. It makes life that much easier to go through." He felt Emma kiss his cheek and chuckled, "See, it's the little things that matter now."

"The little things…" Horatio repeated softly and took in a deep breath. Releasing it slowly, he smirked and glanced at Tim, "Got to admit, she's already opened my eyes to a lot…even before she was born."

"Yeah, they tend to do that. Just getting used to the fact that your little angel is going to change your life for the better has you thinking differently. Everything…centers on them." Tim kissed Emma back and smiled, "And the bad thing is, that they soon find this out."

Chuckling more, Horatio looked to Tim, "So I see." As Cerise began to open her eyes some, he shook his head, "Look's like we'll both be one our toes for many, many years with them. Oh, before I forget, Speed…Calleigh and I would like you and Emma to attend our wedding. The date hasn't been set in stone yet, but, she wanted to wait 'til Cerise was born."

"Just give us a date, and we'll be there," Tim said as he chuckled more. Jostling Emma in his arms, he looked to her, "Isn't that right, sweetie?"

"Yeah!" Emma replied happily and then looked back at Kyle with Cerise. Crinkling her brow, she giggled "Was I that small daddy?"

"Yes, you were, kiddo. You were just like that," Tim answered as he met her gaze. He knew the feeling of holding his child for the first time, even if she was already three years old when he did. That stipulation didn't take away from the awe of having her in his arms. He hugged Emma tightly and kissed her on her temple, "You were just as precious."

Wrapping her arms around his neck, Emma kissed him back and whispered in his ear, "I love you, daddy."

"I love you, Emma." Looking to Horatio, he smirked, "It's a perk, you know?"

Smiling shyly, Horatio nodded, "One I'm sure I'll have plenty of." As Cerise began to fuss, Horatio bent down and took her from Kyle, "I think someone is wanting a change and to be fed again, so if you'll excuse us, I'm sure Calleigh will want the feeding job again."

"By all means, H. We're going to go back to the waiting room and then head back," Tim said as he switched Emma to his back. Getting a better hold of her, he nodded, "We'll stop by later to see Calleigh, okay?"

"Okay, I'll let her know. Kyle…" Horatio said as he turned back to his son, "are you staying or going back to the house, son?"

"I think I'm going to go back. Everything seems on the up and up here. Besides, I need to get home and get out of this wheel chair for a few minutes. I'll be glad when this is over." Kyle smiled at his father and nodded, "It's a good look on you, Dad."

"Thank you, son." Giving him a smile, Horatio raised his brow, "I'll uh…I'll call you later and check up on things. I think there's some leftovers in the fridge also if you get hungry. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call, okay?"

"I've got it under control, Dad. You worry about your family here, okay?" Kyle winked as he began to wheel away, "I'll call to check up on you."

"Okay, son." Smiling more as he watched Kyle leave with Tim and Emma, Horatio then looked down to the crying baby in his arms and began to walk with her while pushing the bassinet, "Okay, Cerise let's get you to your mom so she can feed you, sweetheart."

Sitting on the couch with Cerise in her arms nursing, Calleigh adjusted herself to get a little more comfortable and then peeked under the receiving blanket to make sure she was still okay. Smiling at the small infant, Calleigh looked towards the kitchen as she heard Horatio and Kyle in there working on a late lunch for them.

After arriving home only a few hours earlier, Calleigh had spent as much time with their daughter as she could. With the rest she had gotten in the hospital, she felt energized and ready to deal with anything that came her way. The feel of Cerise suction easing told her the infant was finished nursing and she moved the receiving blanket and moved the infant from her breast. Recovering herself, she then placed the blanket over her shoulder and lifted Cerise into position and began burping her.

Getting up carefully, she padded her way into the kitchen and smiled as father and son worked together, "Well, whatever y'all are fixing smells good. How much longer 'til it's done?"

Horatio turned to see her standing and smiled as he reached for the hand towel, wiping his hands quickly. Moving from his position, he approached them easily and chuckled, his eyes going to the bundle in her arms. A feeling of intense warmth bloomed within his chest and he exhaled lightly, almost unable to contain it, "Not long, sweetheart. I take it Cerise is done?"

"Yeah, just waiting for her to…" Hearing the small burp from Cerise, Calleigh smiled, "well, that." Moving her from her shoulder and back down into her arms, Calleigh then gave Horatio a kiss, "Anything we can help with?"

"Actually, we're just about done," Horatio said as he gave her a peck on the cheek. Turning back to Kyle, he waved toward the table, "We've got everything under control. You and Cerise can sit down and relax and let us serve you."

"Well, what gentlemen…I guess we can't refuse that then." Going to the table and sitting down in her chair, Calleigh adjusted Cerise better and looked over at them, "So, any idea when Alexx is coming over? I feel bad I fell asleep on her yesterday."

Horatio prepared her plate and turned slightly to see her sitting and shrugged, "She said some time this afternoon, which could mean any time between right now and later." Bringing her plate to her, he placed it down and bent to kiss her on her temple, "I hope she comes later. You need to eat."

Smirking, Calleigh reached for her fork with her free hand and raised a brow, "I still feel like I can eat a horse, so don't worry. I'm not gonna let this go to waste." Looking at her plate, she speared some of the salad, "This does look delicious."

"I hope it is, there's more if you want some." Watching as she ate, he asked, "Do you want me to take Cerise off of your hands?"

Looking at him as she chewed, she then swallowed, "You're not gonna eat with us?"

"No, I'm fine. I can take Cerise and let you eat. Everything's fine, Calleigh." Coming to her side, he looked down at her and then knelt on his haunches, "I just wanted to make sure you're comfortable."

Giving him a small smile, Calleigh nodded and then handed off Cerise to him. Giving him a quick kiss, she whispered, "Thank you, Handsome."

"You're welcome, Calleigh." Readjusting her in his arms, he stood fully, "We're just going to go right on over here and let mommy eat." Keeping his eyes on his daughter, he smiled, "We won't tell Mom about the fun we're going to have."

Chuckling some, Calleigh raised a brow as Kyle came over to the table and she nodded to him, "And I guess we won't tell your dad about the fun we'll be having while he's over there with your sister, huh?"

Laughing some, Kyle added, "Yeah. Oh well, guess he'll loose out on that one. So…did you see that thing on the computer?"

"Oh yeah, I did. That looked awesome. I think we should try to do that…"

Totally immersed within Cerise, Horatio quirked his brow and spoke without even turning, his smile widening, "What looks so awesome?"

Nodding to Calleigh, Kyle smirked and looked towards his dad, "Oh, just you with Cerise." Trying not to laugh, Kyle added, "That and the feathers on the chicken."

"Oh, that sounds great, you two should totally look into it," Horatio continued as he began to sway gently. He smiled and bent to nuzzle her, the feeling being nothing he'd ever felt before. As if remembering he had something to say, Horatio nodded, "Yeah…you two…should look into it."

Laughing as he picked up his fork, Kyle shook his head, "Dad, you're totally clueless right now. Did you even hear what we said?"

"Sure," he said as he nodded, reluctant to tear his gaze from Cerise. He smiled as he nodded, "You're going to look at something on the computer. Something to do with chicken's and feathers." Returning his gaze, he shook his head lightly, "Although I have no idea why they'd be looking up feathers and chickens."

"Horatio…it was a joke, sweetie. Kyle was seeing how much attention you were actually paying to us," Calleigh chirped in with a slight chuckle. "Apparently, you're attention is on Cerise."

Finally looking away from Cerise completely, Horatio nodded and smiled, "Guilty as charged. I just can't help myself. She's amazing…"

"I know," Calleigh smiled and then took another bite of her salad. Chewing, she got up and went over to get her a drink, "I've got to call sometime today and make her an appointment with the pediatrician for her check up and all. Then I've got to call my doctor for my follow up."

"Let me know and I can tag along," he answered back as he swayed more. "Four hands are better than two."

"True." Getting her drink, she walked over to them and gazed at Cerise, "She looks so peaceful when she sleeps."

Horatio smiled and nodded, "Just like her mother when she sleeps. There are times I could just watch you sleep. You're both angels." Readjusting slightly, he looked to her, "So, really, what's on the agenda other than making appointments?"

Shaking her head, Calleigh went back over to the table to finish her lunch, "Nothing really. Just that and waiting on Alexx to get here. Why? Was there something you wanted to go do?"

"No, not really. Speed mentioned needing some help with a few things. I wasn't going to do it if you had something you wanted to do." Horatio smiled lightly and breathed outwardly, "I barely want to put her down."

"No, I'm good. You can go help Speed if you want. I'm just gonna get some things done around here and visit with Alexx." Taking a bite of her food, Calleigh looked over at him and covered her mouth, "Oh…and when your at the lab…can you grab my mail?"

"I can, are you expecting anything important?" Horatio asked, looking down at Cerise. The thought of going back to the lab filled him with hesitation, knowing now his diminished role. He managed a smile and then met her gaze, "I shouldn't be long, I'll probably bring some things back, I keep meaning to clear my stuff out."

"Take your time, Horatio. We'll be here when you get home," she replied trying to encourage him. Giving him a smile, she shrugged, "Maybe we can go out for a walk down to the water later when it cools off some for Cerise."

"A walk sounds good. I'll look forward to it." Giving a glance to Kyle, he asked, "And you, got any plans?"

Nodding and taking a drink of his soda, Kyle wiped his mouth, "Yeah. Josh is going to come pick me up and we're going out for awhile. He wanted to show me his new boat."

His attention stayed on Kyle as he frowned, "His boat? You're going to take it safe, right? "

"I'm not going on it. It's dry docked at the marina, dad. He's still got some work to do on it. Josh just wanted me to see it, that's all. Besides, even if it was ready to go out, I wouldn't be able to yet," Kyle stated as he motioned to the wheelchair.

"Still, it doesn't hurt to be safe, son. Just take it easy," Horatio answered as he focused on Kyle more. He could tell that he was growing tired of his situation and sighed, "You won't be in that chair forever."

"I know…I just wish they'd hurry up and let me on crutches or something," Kyle replied, his tone laced with frustration. "They keep saying it won't be much longer but it's like they aren't even listening to what they're saying to me."

"Kyle, calm down. There's no need to get upset, things are going to work out." Horatio kept his eyes on him and exhaled, "I know it's frustrating to want progress even if there seems like there is none, but Kyle, you have to be patient. They just want to make sure that you heal."

Breathing out heavily, Kyle shook his head and put his fork down, "Yeah, well, it's starting to be for the birds. I'm about ready to go and get another opinion from a few other doctors."

"Kyle, you have to be patient. They know what's good for you…"

"Dad…they're also known to take there sweet time about things and I don't want to be the one they're taking there time on. I have a life that I'd like to live, ya know."

Horatio knew this frustration well and sympathized, "Son, if you try to rush this, it could turn out worse than it already is. Just…take your time."

Listening to his dad, Kyle sighed and nodded, "I am…but I'm still getting a second opinion."

His tone was firm and Horatio took the cue to change the subject and asked, "What time do you think he'll be by to pick you up?"

"Around three. We might stay out for awhile afterwards…I just don't know yet," Kyle replied and reached for his plate. Placing it onto his lap, he wheeled himself from the table and headed towards the counter, "You need me to do anything before I go?"

"No, just…just be careful son," Horatio exasperated uneasily. As much as he wanted Kyle to have a life, he didn't want him to be reckless. "Give me a call if you need anything."

"I will…" Kyle said as he placed his plate onto the counter. Turning back around, he headed for the kitchen door, "I'll be in my room working on some things until then."

Watching as Kyle left out the room, Calleigh finished up and then carried her plate over. Placing it with Kyle's, she then moved to Horatio, "He'll be okay, Handsome. I think I'd be the same if I were having to spend all my time in that chair also."

Staring after him, Horatio sighed, "I just worry, Calleigh. Some times…some times he's just like me. I would never listen to reason until it was too late. I just don't want him to get hurt."

Rubbing his arm, Calleigh nodded, "I know…but, sometimes it's best we learn that lesson on our own, even if it isn't the best decision. We all have to learn from our mistakes, even Kyle."

"That's what I'm scared of." Shaking his head, he refocused and looked down at Cerise, "I hope I can do my job with her. I've got another chance to get it right."

"You'll do fine, Horatio…just have faith. And with Kyle, you also have to remember he's an adult now…he'll make the decision's he feels he needs to make. Just don't beat yourself up over it." Giving him a small smile, she tilted her head, "You turned him around at a critical point in his life and made a huge difference. Besides, he knows you're there for him if he needs you…and that is very important."

Horatio smiled and nodded, "You're right. Things will sort themselves out. I just have to have faith." Feeling Cerise starting to stir, he looked to Calleigh and arched his brow, "She's gotten tired of me. I think she wants Mama."

Smiling, Calleigh took her into her arms and then looked up into his eyes, "I love you."

"I love you," Horatio answered with a small kiss. Parting from her reluctantly, he ran a gentle finger down Cerise's cheek and sighed, "This is going to be hell for me. I haven't been away from her for more than minutes."

"Well, just think about what you have to look forward to when you get home," she said as she looked down at Cerise. Seeing her eyes open, Calleigh smiled more, "She'll have your eyes."

"You think so? I think it could go either way." Horatio stared at her as she looked up her eyes squinting together, "She still could have your eyes, Cal."

"I doubt it. I think they'll be just as blue as yours." Tracing her finger down Cerise's nose to her chin, Calleigh laughed, "And she's gonna have strawberry blond hair."

"The legacy continues," he grumbled as he leaned to kiss her again. Smiling, he tickled at Cerise, "I'll try not to be too long. Call me if you need anything, okay?"

Nodding, she smiled as she watched him with their daughter and then looked back up at him, "Be careful and tell everyone I said hi."

"I will. See you later, Calleigh. I love you."

"Love you too, Handsome." Watching as he left out, Calleigh went back into the living room with Cerise and sat down in the corner of the couch. Smiling down at the baby, she whispered to her, "Your daddy loves you a lot, sweetie. He'll be back soon and then you can take your first trip to the beach with us. I just know you'll love it there, just like me, your daddy and brother do."

Passing through the corridors of the lab was bittersweet for Horatio. All at once, the years he'd spent chasing the shadows of crimes, bringing justice to those who'd fallen , came rushing back to him and settled squarely on his shoulders. It remained as a reminder of what he had accomplished, but it also reminded him that he was no longer here in that capacity. Now, he was merely an observer and that itched at him more than anything else. To not be able to act on a gut feeling, or see a piece of evidence through played with his mentality, and as he came to the entrance into the lab corridor, he questioned himself one last time, the answer coming clearer than ever. He did this to matter, but mostly, he did this as a requiem for the city he so loved. If he couldn't protect it as a leader, he'd do his best to help protect it as a worker.

Catching Speed's eye, he raised his hand and waited for him to approach, feeling at odds with having to stop at the threshold of the lab. From his vantage point, he saw the every day workings of the lab, things that he took for granted when he was the lab supervisor and sighed heavily, waving almost nonchalantly at those who passed by. For several weeks, he'd helped Speed on several cases; even now, he was being called in on a triple that had gone south, but it seemed as if his position were brand new each day by the amount of onlookers that fanned about when he entered. It was as if he would never live down the legacy that he'd built for himself, but could never retain.

Feeling a hand on his shoulder, he turned to see her standing, her smile widening. In an instant, his daily journey through doubt ended and he exhaled heavily as he attempted to return her smile.

"Hey, Cal. How's it going?"

After having come back to work on a few days earlier, Calleigh shrugged and smiled some as she slipped her hands into her lab coat, "Well…I miss you and Cerise, other then that I'm okay I guess. Tim call you in?"

"Yeah, he has a triple he wanted my help on. What about you? What's on tap for you?" Seeing the light in her eyes, he smiled and averted his eyes, feeling the same way. It literally tore him in half to leave Cerise with Alexx, and even now, he wanted to be there more than here, but in order for them to survive as a family, he had to pull his weight.

Eyeing her lab coat, he nodded and glanced at his visitor's pass, then up to see Speed talking with another tech, "For the moment, I'm stuck right here though."

Giving him a bright smile, Calleigh took hold of his arm and whispered, "No your not, you can come with me being I'm back full time now. I can take you up to the office, I think he's just signing off on one of the other cases."

Allowing her to take his arm and lead him, he sighed, "No matter how many times I come, I still can't get used to this. I never thought that I'd be like this."

Walking slowly with him, Calleigh licked her lips and looked up at him, keeping her voice down, "I know, Handsome. But, it's better then not being allowed at all inside here. At least the Chief saw something in you to keep you here with us."

"Yes, I should be very thankful that I'm allowed back. As it stands, I shouldn't even use the bathroom." Realizing that he was steering toward dark waters, Horatio sighed, "Positive…think positive."

Smiling some, Calleigh leaned into him and whispered, "You're still helping to bring in the bad guys, only, it's safer for you now…and that's a good thing. The target is off your back now and you'll be able to see Cerise grow up without having to always look behind your back."

Horatio smiled and sighed, "You're right. This is much better. My time can be spent living and not ducking and dodging shadows." Looking to her he leaned closer, "I love you."

"I love you too," she smiled as they came to the steps. Taking them up to the office, Calleigh then stopped on the landing as they waited for Tim, "Well, so you know, I might be late getting home tonight. I've got about five dozen projectiles running through the system and so far four have had matches to another case."

"Five dozen?" Horatio's brow crinkled as he nodded and looked toward the office door. It loomed ominously and he exhaled heavily, "This is a new dynamic, you're coming home late, and me waiting up for you."

"I'll try to get done as soon as I can, Horatio. I just want to make sure we nail this guy," Calleigh replied as she looked up at him. "He killed a mother with an unborn child…I owe it to them to put him away."

"I can understand that, Calleigh. Doing the right thing is always important." Crossing his arms at his chest, he leaned against the wall and then glanced to his watch. "How are things otherwise?"

"Good. Everyone is taken with the pictures I brought in of Cerise. They said they can see a lot of you in her," she smiled as she stood just in front of him. "Jesse thinks her hair will get a darker red like yours."

Horatio smirked and then shook his head, "Everyone seems to think she looks like me, when she clearly has your beauty."

Chuckling some, Calleigh sighed, "I think they are looking at her hair and eyes…she takes after you there, sweetie."

"I think everyone else misses the way she smiles or the little chuckles that remind me of you," Horatio answered as he looked to her. Reaching for her cheek, he heard the stern sound of a throat clearing and he straightened up and turned to see Tim standing on the landing with them. Regaining composure, Horatio smirked, "Speed…I didn't hear you come up."

Taking in the scene, Tim nodded and scratched his temple, "I just needed to get to my office. You two can continue where you left off." Moving to his door, he arched his brow, "Although, I think there's a case or two that requires your attention, Calleigh."

Smirking, Calleigh raised a brow as she looked over at Tim, "I've got the projectiles running right now…already matched up 5 to another case, so it look's like both are connected. Paperwork for them is in your box."

"Well, then by all means, proceed," Tim answered coyly as he pushed the door open. Looking back at the two he gestured between them, "You don't mind if I snag Horatio, I've kinda got a triple that's been messing with my head."

"No that's fine." Looking to Horatio, she gave him a smile, "I'll call if I'm going to be too late, okay?"

"Okay. Take it easy, Calleigh." He hated to see her walk away, but knew that he would see her at home. Waving to her as she began to descend the stairs, Horatio sighed and then looked to Tim, "So, ready to get to work?"

Tim stood away and allowed Horatio passage, closing the door behind them. Crossing the room, he came to rest behind the desk and sat down, reclining a bit in the chair as Horatio settled in the chair in front of him. It still felt odd to be in this position, but it was one he was given and he wasn't going to squander it.

Pulling out the file, he placed it on the desk, "I think I've seen this before, but I can't put a face to it just yet."

Nodding as he got comfortable as he could in the chair, Horatio raised his brow, "What are the particulars?"

Opening the file, he pushed it further to allow Horatio to see, "Very up close and personal, three victims, slashed and no trace whatsoever. The laceration is deep on their necks, left to right and all three were found in the same place, feet from each other. There doesn't seem to be a type, the victims seem to be random, but I can't help but think that this is familiar."

Sitting on the corner of his chair and looking at the file, Horatio pondered as to if the case was familiar to him. Turning the page and seeing the crime scene photo's, he looked through them, trying to find something of resemblance. Crinkling his brow, Horatio looked up at Tim, "Speed, pull up the case files from back in 2003 I think it was. See if there were any cases with the same type attack. If I recall correctly, we had one that went unsolved."

Typing furiously, Tim pulled up the unsolved case files for 2003 and frowned, "There's hundreds, H. But I need to just narrow it down." Searching for more, he nodded as his expression cleared, "I found it if you believe it or not. Three victims, lacerations to the neck, left to right, little to no trace found. The difference here is that back then, there was no murder weapon. Today…it was found buried in the first victim. We tried to ascertain the maker of the blade, but couldn't."

Coming to a photo of the weapon, Horatio tilted his head as he studied the photo. Shaking his head and sighing, he looked back up at Tim, "Speed, can I see blade? It'll make it easier without all the blood on it."

Looking up the number, Tim nodded, "I think I can get my hands on the evidence. We'll have to go to the unsolved's to get it." Writing the number down, he stood and logged off, then moving for the door. Taking a glance back, he asked, "So, how are you liking consulting? It's a different pace, I know…but it's okay."

"It's…different that's for sure." Following Tim out the office, Horatio waited as he locked it up and then walked along side him, "I think the only good things about it that it's letting me continue to work here some and also spend more time with Cerise."

"That's a plus in any book." Walking through the corridors, Tim could still feel the presence of others as they stared and sighed, "It doesn't seem to get old with them, does it? You've been coming here for what…eight weeks now? You'd think people would move on."

"It's called curiosity, Speed. And they have every right to be curious. I mean, how many people do you know that have done what I did and were allowed to stay in a certain capacity?" Horatio asked as they turned a corner leading to the corridor for Unsolved Cases.

"Yeah, but you're the same H. You're the same man who has led this lab to where it is today, no amount of addiction is going to take that away from you." Frowning, he exhaled as they came to the door, "I think all of this other stuff is bullshit." Pausing for a second, he rolled his eyes, "Okay, I have to remind you that you can't touch anything in here and if you need to see something, let me know."

Raising his brow and nodding once, Horatio looked at Tim, "Duly noted." Waiting as he unlocked the door, Horatio then followed him inside, closing the door behind them. Walking down the isles of unsolved cases, Horatio took in a deep breath, releasing it slowly as he pushed back his desires to leave and never return.

Once Tim found the box of evidence, they headed to one of the tables. Watching as Tim broke the seal on the evidence box, Horatio smirked, "Has my advice I gave you worked by the way?"

Tim nodded and smiled, "After a few turns with the staff, yes it has. I still have my moments, but I've learned how to delegate more and realize that I can't do it all in one day. Emma thanks you." Pulling the evidence out, he searched for the knife and then reached for it, pausing, "Remember, ask, okay?" Seeing his dubious expression, Tim sighed, "I know how it is, H. You get immersed in the pursuit and forget about the stipulations. I've been there."

Smiling some, Horatio nodded, "I know." When Tim took the knife out of the evidence bag, Horatio gestured him to set it down onto the bag. Bending down and looking it over closely, a smirk formed and he stood back up, "You won't find a manufacturer, Speed…not unless you find the suspect. This blade, it's not a mass produced piece."

Pointing to an area, Horatio tilted his head, "Right here, there is a small indentation near the hilt. And then, the top part of the blade is too thick. It's homemade."

"Home made. Not exactly what I wanted to hear," Tim exasperated as he shook his head. His eyes lit on the autopsy report and he moved quickly, "What…the…What if this knife matches the new set? If it's home made, there's a chance that another could be made. If they match, this could be the same person."

"More then likely it could be. And for all we know, that indentation could be his signature," Horatio added with a raise of his brow. "Have Calleigh check into anyone that forges knives or blades of any size in or around Miami."

Tim could hear the authority in his tone and smiled, nodding as he began to repackage the box. A small chuckle escaped and he shook his head, "It almost seems like old times, H. I'll get Tom to cast the new wounds and see if we can get a comparison going for the '03 murders. You're welcome to sit in if you want."

The need to see the case through ate at him and Horatio licked his lips and looked down as he placed his hands onto his hips, "I'd like that, Speed. Thank you."

"You're welcome. Everyone else seems to be moving on their cases, this one's been a thorn in my side. I'm ready to close it." Closing the box, he sealed it again and put his initials, "And we're on our way to the morgue. On the way, I can call Cal and get her to look into the knife."

"Okay. Also, have someone check into the flea markets also. I know there are quite a few dealers at them on the weekends." Moving with Tim as he picked up the evidence box and carried it back to it's assigned area, Horatio then headed for the door, waiting as Tim followed. Opening the door and going out, he pulled out his cell and glanced at Tim, "I need to call Alexx and let her know I'll be late getting Cerise."

"Okay, take care of your business, I'll wait," Tim answered with a short nod.

Seeing Tim pull out his own cell, Horatio placed his to his ear and waited for Alexx to answer. When her cheerful voice came over the line, Horatio smiled and spoke softly, "I hope I'm not disturbing anyone there."

Hearing his calm voice, Alexx smiled more as she glanced into the bassinet, "No, your little angel is asleep. She's been resting for most of the morning. She did get up to eat and then we sat up for a little while. I tell you, Horatio, she's such a calm baby, I've never seen this before ever."

Chuckling some, Horatio sighed, "That's because she takes after her mother. Look Alexx, the reason I'm calling is…well, I was wondering if it's be okay if she stayed there a little longer then planned? I'm helping Speed out on a case…"

"You're working a case? That's great, Horatio! How's it going? Is it just like old times?" Alexx asked, curious to how he was reacting to his new role. She'd seen the hesitancy in the first few weeks, and thought that he would've allowed the change to catch on, but she could see the vestiges of ache that was in his eyes. Horatio was a man of action, follow through. This new compromise took that follow through away from him.

"I'm still on an advisory level, Alexx. Speed asked if I'd like to sit on for awhile, that's all. But, if you need me to get Cerise…"

"Oh no, Cerise is just fine. Take all the time you need, honey." Alexx could hear the frustrated tone and sighed, rubbing her temple. She knew how much the job meant to Horatio and how much of his life he had dedicated to it and how hard this new stipulation had hit him. "It's going to be okay, Horatio. You'll get the hang of it."

Pursing his lips and turning some from Tim, Horatio sighed heavily, "I hope so, Alexx." Hearing Tim end his call to Calleigh, Horatio rubbed his forehead, "Look, I uh…I need to go. If you need me, call, okay?"

"I will. Take care, Horatio." Hanging up with him, Alexx glanced to the bassinet and shook her head minutely, lamenting the position her friend was in. She hoped that he could get back on track and there were no more upsets.

Seeing Horatio end his call, he gestured, "Everything okay?"

"Uh…yeah. Everything's fine. Cerise was sleeping," Horatio replied, forcing a small smile as he placed his cell back into his pocket. "What did Calleigh say?"

Noticing the change of tone, Tim started moving again, deciding against irritating him further, "Calleigh's going to get to the knife as soon as she finishes the projectiles. Believe it or not, she's almost finished." Silence fell between them and he exhaled lightly, "For the record, H, I still think this is crummy."

"It's for the best, Speed," Horatio said, repeating what a few had told him. Coming to the bank of elevators, Horatio pushed back his suit coat some and tapped his finger on his visitors ID, "Tell me more about the crime scene of this latest victim's."

Tim depressed the button and then looked to Horatio, "Three bodies found within feet of each other, no prints leading in or out of the scene, no prints found. We did victimology and couldn't find anything that connected the three and there wasn't any clear cut motive. It looks random, but then there's a message within all of this. And now, it seems that it's a serial. It's just confounding me."

Thinking as Tim talked, Horatio nodded slightly and then stepped onto the elevator as the doors slid open. Standing back and leaning against the wall some, he looked back at Tim, "Could be dissatisfied customers even. Has anyone checked out all the homes for any bladed weapons of any kind? Like collector knives, swords, things like that?"

Tim's brow furrowed as he thought back, going over the case in his mind. Exhaling, he knocked his head gently into the elevator wall and grumbled, "They're all collectors of some kind. It didn't stand out to me, because the link wasn't there. This could be a lead we can use."

Smiling some, Horatio raised a brow, "Have Frank and Walter go check them all out and do some checking into who they dealt with. There has to be a paper trail that could lead to the killer."

"Sounds like a plan," Tim answered as he adjusted the box under his hand. The elevator opened and he stepped out, turning toward the layout room. Noticing that Horatio turned the other way, he cleared his throat and nodded, "We're going to the layout room, H. Did you have some thing else in mind?"

"I thought we were going to go see Tom," Horatio said with a slightly confused look.

"We are, but I've got to get this laid out, H. I'll get the report out for Tom and call down for the casting of the wounds." Starting off toward the layout room, he called back, "It's not going to take long."

Smiling, Horatio turned to follow and called out, "Want me to call Tom for you and you get Frank and Walter out on those leads?"

"I can get Frank and Walter, it would help a bit to get Tom on board," Tim said as he neared the door. Pulling it open, he then went to the lighted table and placed the box down gingerly. Flipping out his phone, Tim dialed the burly detective and then looked up, spotting Walter as he walked by. Going to the door, he pushed out and called, "Simmons…"

"Whatever it is, Speed, I didn't do it. I was on my way to fingerprinting…."

"And now you're not. You're going with Tripp to follow up on that triple, so stick around."

Walter nodded and then looked into the layout room before entering. Seeing Horatio, he nodded in acknowledgement, "Hey, H. How's it going?"

Giving the younger man a small nod, Horatio then held out his hand to him, "Just fine. Walter." Letting go, he watched as Tim began to lay out the evidence, "Is Jesse working this case also, Speed?"

"As soon as he finishes what he's working on, I'll snag him. But for right now, it's just myself and Walter on this." Finishing with the layout, he beckoned Walter over, "I need you to go over this before Tripp comes, I think H has found a link."

Walter moved toward the lighted table and then shook his head, "The triple. Thought to give it another shot, Speed?"

"Yeah, H gave me an inside line. The absence of a murder weapon and the familiarity of the scene caused me to think of a previous scene. One where the murder weapon was gathered. I'm thinking on a whim here, that if we can match the wounds of the fresh victims to the victims in 03, then we might have a serial. And if we have a serial…"

"We have a history. And you want me and Tripp to canvas the new trio for connections," Walter added as he nodded. He glanced to H and smiled, "A fresh pair of eyes helps all the time."

"Always." Horatio pointed to the evidence that was laid out already and then glanced at Walter, "Walter, we need you and Frank to also check each residence for any type of weapon collections such as knives, swords, anything like that. Also find out who they dealt with when making their purchases…whether they were private dealers or retail shops. Anything that seems little, you need to look into."

Walter nodded and then glanced to Tim, "As soon as Tripp comes, we'll head off. We'll call you if we come up against some flack." Looking to Horatio, he smirked again, "Nice to see you back in the saddle, H. You've gotta come around more often."

Smiling some, Horatio reached for a stool, "Only when Speed needs me here, Walter."

Walter chuckled and moved for the door, "It's not been the same since you've been gone, H. No offense, Speed."

"None taken, Walter. Let me know if you have any problems." Tim smirked as he continued to peruse the information before him.

"Will do. See you later, H."

"Take care, Walter." Watching the younger man leave, Horatio took a seat on the stool and looked to Tim, "With his background in art this should be right up is alley."

"That's why he's my first choice with this. His eye for detail is like none other and the guy is sharp." Tim remarked as he pulled the autopsy files. "I think this will be the key to this case."

Pulling out his cell phone, Horatio flipped it open and hit the doctor's number on his speed dial, "Let's hope so." Hearing the doctor pick up, Horatio spoke up, "Doctor…it's Horatio Caine…"

Hearing his name, Dr. Tom Loman crinkled his brow confusingly as he peered at the body before him, his tone echoing that confusion, "Lieutenant, I didn't think that I'd hear from you. What can I help you with, sir?"

"We need you to take a look at the triple that was brought in and cast the wounds on each victim. Speedle and myself will be down there shortly to fill you in on the rest," Horatio stated as he looked over the photo's that Tim set in front of him.

"Why certainly, sir. This case has been the brain of Detective Speedle's existence. I've never seen him so totally and completely blocked…It's a baffling one to be sure, sir. I was just thinking how in the world can one affect so much destruction and not leave…"

"Doctor…" Horatio interrupted as Tim chuckled some, "We'll be down as soon as we finish up."

"Oh…yes, sir. Definitely. I'll be ready for you when you get here," Tom answered back as he nodded.

"Thank you," Horatio replied as then hung up. Looking at Tim as he tried not to laugh, Horatio placed his cell back into his pocket, "I see some things haven't changed."

"I don't think Dr. Loman will ever change," Tim quipped as he flipped the file. Closing it, he then looked to Horatio. "Let me package this up and we'll go."

"Okay. In the mean time…I'm gonna get some coffee if you don't mind," Horatio said as he got up.

"Not at all. I'll come and get you when I'm ready to go to the morgue," Tim responded as he continued to package the box.

Heading for the door, Horatio looked back at Tim as he continued at his task ad then left out. Taking in a deep breath and then sighing heavily, Horatio headed towards the break room and went in. Finding himself alone in there, he went over to the counter and pulled down a paper coffee cup. Fixing himself a cup, he turned just as Rick walked in and went over to the table, "Rick."

With a smug smile, Rick acknowledged Horatio, nodding, "Horatio. I see that you've been called in today."

Taking a sip of the hot black liquid, Horatio then took a seat and reached for the newspaper that was sitting there, "I have."

"Good…where is Detective Speedle? Isn't he supposed to be with you at all times?" Rick asked as he took a seat opposite of him. Leaning forward, he eyed the former Lieutenant and smirked, his tone less than friendly, "Just so you know, Caine. I'm not on board with you roaming the halls by yourself. You're too much of a liability for this lab."

Smirking, Horatio flipped the page of the paper as his eyes roamed over the print, "Funny, here I thought I was sitting in the break room…not roaming the halls as you say. Or am I just dreaming this, Rick?"

"So, Speedle dropped you off in here then?" Looking around, his brow furrowed, "You don't have any authority to be inside any facility within this building, especially without an authorized personnel escort. You just can't be trusted."

Closing the paper, Horatio looked around and then to Rick as he raised a brow, "Care to hold my hand and escort me to the bathroom then, Rick? I feel the need to flush something."

"Cute, Caine." Standing, Rick adjusted his suit and sneered, "Watch yourself, Horatio. Before I let this lab be tainted, I'll see you out the door. I think the Chief's made a bad mistake with allowing this, but for some reason he saw to spare you. The first time you screw up, which I know you will, you're gone."

Taking a drink of his coffee, Horatio sighed and looked up at him, "We'll see about that, Rick. Now uh…shouldn't you be out doing your job or something instead of harassing me?"

"Making sure that the integrity of this lab is consistent is my job, Horatio," Rick responded, his tone stringent, "your history makes you tainted. It's the type of reputation that comes with the territory of being an addict. You'll slip one day, and I'll be right there to catch it."

Not letting Rick get under his skin, Horatio stood up as he saw Tim coming and went over, pouring out the rest of his coffee and throwing the cup away, "I see my escort is here. Have a nice day, Rick." Leaving out, he looked back towards the other man and smirked, seeing how hot Rick was under the collar.

Laughing slightly, he fell into step with Tim, "Get everything taken care of?"

Glancing at Horatio briefly, he nodded, his attention focused directly on his path. "We have to make it fast. There's been a call out to a middle school…It's…bad." Picking up his pace, he made it to the bank of elevators and hit the button, taking a look back to see Stetler emerging from the break room, "Did he come here just to see how you were fairing, or was he gathering dirt?"

Glancing back at Rick, Horatio lowered his voice, "Same as usual, stirring up shit. So…watch this case carefully, Speed. He's out for blood any way he can get it."

"As if I needed anything else heaped upon me," Tim groused. Stepping into the elevator, he sighed and closed his eyes, allowing a minute to collect himself. "He's the last thing I need looking over my neck."

"If need be, Speed, I'll finish up here today with you and then head on home. Last thing I want is for this lab to have IAB screwing around because of me," Horatio offered as he pressed the button to take them to the morgue.

Opening his eyes quickly, Tim looked to Horatio and shook his head emphatically, "No, H. We stay the course on this and finish it. I'm not worried about Stetler, he's a speed bump. Just as long as we follow the rules, things are going to be just fine. Don't let Stetler muck up your perception."

Nodding, Horatio licked his lips and looked back at Tim, "If you want, Speed, I'll stay with Tom so you can take that call out. I can call you as soon as the castings are ready…and he can make sure I don't get in trouble."

"Actually, I kinda needed your eyes. The scene…there was a bombing at the school. It's just getting out over the airwaves, but the Chief wants me down there and working. I've already called Walter back and Jesse's on his way out, I was going to ask you if you'd accompany me." Seeing the hesitation, he continued, "You're the authority on bomb scenes, H. I'd be crazy not to ask you to do this."

Knowing this was big if Speed was asking, Horatio nodded and licked his lips and pulled out his cell, "Call the Chief, get conformation that I'm allowed on scene. I'll call Tom and let him know to send the castings to Firearms so Calleigh can look them over later."

"I'm a step ahead of you, I called ahead and got confirmation. He's adamant that you have access." The elevator doors opened and Tim walked through, "You'll have stick by me, can't log in any evidence and anything you find, I have to see it first."

"Got it…better get going then. I'll call Tom on the way," Horatio replied as he reached into his inside coat pocket and pulled out his badge. Slipping it onto his belt they headed towards the back exit, there pace picking up some, "Any idea on what we're looking at when we get there, Speed?"

"Initial reports are that portions of the first floor have been taken out and there's numerous casualties. Many of them kids. It's chaos from what I can tell." Tim sighed and shifted the box, "You might want to call Alexx back."

"I'll let her know we'll all be late. I think she'll understand. Hopefully she won't be called in to work," he replied as they hit the door and headed outside and towards Tim's Hummer. Flipping his phone open, Horatio called out, "Have Bomb Squad equip everyone with vest and helmets. Also make sure a three block radius is evacuated incase there is another bomb."

Smirking, Tim nodded and pulled his phone and began dialing, "Gotcha, H." The sound of his authority rang out and Tim couldn't help but smile at the familiarity.