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"

Smoke rose into the sky over East Shore Middle School in the middle of Hialeah near Benny Babcock Park. As the Hummer pulled up, Horatio took in the destruction that the bomb had cause to the school, cringing inwardly at the loss of life that he knew they would witness. Several fire trucks, ambulances, Bomb Squad and most of the PD were already on scene, working to get control over the situation.

Getting out the hummer, Horatio could smell the burning of wood, papers and even human flesh in the air as it settled over the area. Coming around to the front and meeting Tim, Horatio shook his head, "Get the other shifts out here also, Speed. We're gonna need all the help we can get."

Tim stared at the burning shell of the school and grumbled, "I'll never understand the human mind." Taking out his phone, he started for the yellow tape that had been draped precariously around the scene, the acrid smell of death hitting him head on. It was days like this that coming to work was something he could've done without. The sounds of fear and despair filled his head and he couldn't help but think about Emma. "I'll get it going."

Following, Horatio spotted Calleigh as she and Jesse got out another Hummer with Ryan and Walter behind them. Knowing this would play havoc with her, he pulled out his cell and hit her number, placing the phone to his ear as he signed him behind Tim. Hearing her pick up, he scribbled his name "I'm here with Speed. If this gets to be too much for you, then I want you to head back to the lab, okay?"

Looking around and spotting him, Calleigh took in a deep breath, "I should be fine, Horatio…but I do know my limits. I'll leave if I can't handle it in there."

Horatio nodded and sighed, "I'm around if you need something, okay?"

"Thanks, Handsome. Be careful in there, okay?" Calleigh replied, knowing he'd be going in first with Tim and the Fire Chief.

"You too, Cal." Folding his phone down, he slipped it in his jacket and then looked to Tim, "Is the Fire Chief ready for us?"

Tim handed him a pair of gloves and sighed, "He's on his way over. I think he's checking the structure to make sure it's sound."

"The morgue is gonna be swamped. Do we know if there are still victims inside?" Horatio asked as he took the gloves and slipped them on.

"They are still looking, but I think that mostly everyone has been rescued or recovered." Picking up the case, he turned to see the Chief coming. Clearing his throat he got Horatio's attention, "I think we're about to go in."

Coming over to the two men, Chief Robert Williams carried two hard hats with him and nodded to Horatio as he handed one over to him, "Horatio…good to see you back in the saddle. Too bad it's under these conditions."

Taking the helmet, Horatio sighed, "I agree. What are we looking at in there?"

Shaking his head, Robert looked back at the school as they all started to walk towards it, "Look's like several different blasts. The main one's took out most of the second floor. We've still got almost seventy five students missing and nine teachers missing in there. My guys are still searching through the ruble."

"You say that the main one took out the second floor? What about the other blasts? Where were they concentrated at?" Horatio asked as he continued to survey the scene.

"There were three other separate blasts. One on each grades wing. We think that empty lockers housed the bombs, but, you're the expert, Horatio." Coming within feet of the front entrance, Robert waited as Tim and Horatio both put on there helmets. When they had then secured, he pointed the way and started to walk again, "Whatever was used sure packed a punch down here though. Took out a few wall's. We got lucky though, none we're weight barriers."

"That's the one place we got lucky at." Horatio started to walk forward and shook his head at the destruction. The further he went, the more damage he saw and he exhaled heavily, "We'll need to see the seat of detonation."

Stepping over a beam, Robert nodded, "We'll start on the sixth grade wing then and work our way around to the others." Moving carefully through the ruble, he shined his flashlight on the path he was taking. Shaking his head, he looked back at Tim and Horatio, "Hope you two brought masks with ya. If so, you might want to put them on. With all the dust and debris in the air, you don't want this stuff in your lungs."

Tim stopped and bent to open the kit, producing two masks. Handing one to Horatio he nodded and then stood, "We're ready to go."

Slipping on his own mask, Robert began to lead them through the hallway. Hearing a flurry of action ahead of them, he picked up the pace, "We've got something going on up here."

Coming around the corner carrying a teenaged girl, Fireman Todd Robinson called out to the Chief, "We've got survivors back there…they need help." Heading towards the front entrance, he pushed past them, not stopping, his only concern for the girl in his arms.

Moving quickly, Robert called back to Tim and Horatio, "We could probably use some extra hands."

Tim looked to Horatio, "H…"

"Lives are at stake, Speed…lets go help," Horatio said as he moved past Tim and ran to catch up with the chief.

Running to catch up, Tim stopped short as he entered, seeing the mass of bodies that were strewn about, the smell of burned flesh stronger here than anyone else. Slipping on the mask, he wasted no time to dive in, coming to the first person he could and reached out to grab the hand that jutted up. Looking down, he could see her long hair and the fear in her eyes as they began to slide shut.

Shaking his head, Tim moved and picked her up, hefting her into his arms, "Don't worry, you're going to be alright. I'll get you out of here."

Moving to another pile of ruble, Horatio began to quickly move pieces of the caved in ceiling from the girl underneath. Speaking softly, his hands moved quickly, "It's okay, sweetheart, you're safe now. I'm gonna get you out of here and get you some help."

Tears filled the girl's eyes as she tried to look around, "Towanda…where…where is she. She was next to me."

Trying to focus on the girl, he asked, "Who is Towanda?"

"My…my sister. We're twins…" she said as more tears began to fall.

Getting the last of the debris off her, Horatio carefully lifted her into his arms as more firemen poured into the room, "We're gonna find her. What's your name?"

"Latonia," she sniffled as he lifted her and then stood up.

"Okay, Latonia, I'm gonna take you out of here and get you checked out and then I'll come back and find your sister for you," Horatio said as he began to head out.

Handing over the girl, Tim could see Horatio emerging with another girl in his arms and then moved to him, passing him, "I'm going back in, there's more."

"Let me know if you find a girl named Towanda, Speed," Horatio called out as he continued to move. Exiting the building, Horatio moved quickly to an awaiting gurney and laid the girl down on it. Moving his mask, he leaned down, whispering to her, "You're going to be okay now, Latonia. I'll get your sister…let these people care for you now."

Nodding, Latonia watched as the red head placed his mask back on and took off running back towards the building.

Going back the way he'd came, Horatio couldn't stop, his adrenaline now pumping through his body. At that moment, nothing else mattered, there were hurt children that were waiting to be found. Moving to the side as Tim came out with another one, he then went back in, searching for more survivors.

Going back to the area where he'd found Latonia, Horatio began a search for her sister, knowing that time was running out. Moving debris out of his way, he saw a hand protruding out from under some of the concrete. His heart began to race as he worked faster, "Speed! I need help over here!"

Tim came over to Horatio's side and saw him frantically clawing through the concrete. Bending, Tim did the same and heard an audible gasp as Horatio reached for the hand and pulled her out. At first sight, the girl didn't look to be breathing, but then he saw her eyes open slightly. As Horatio moved quickly, he could hear her begin to scream in his arms.

Trying to not to scare or hurt the girl anymore then she already was, Horatio tried to calm her, "It's okay, it's okay…you're safe now. We're not going to hurt you."

She trembled in his arms as her eyes widened in fear, her voice coming shakily, "Wh-what happened? Where's…where's my sister?"

Smiling some, Horatio raised a brow and asked softly, "Sweetheart, are you Towanda?"

Coughing, she began to cry and then nodded, "Latonia. Is…is she okay? She was right beside me…"

"She's fine, sweetheart. She's waiting outside for you. I'm gonna take you out to her, okay?" Horatio replied as he glanced at Tim and nodded for help standing with the girl. "Now, Towanda, are you hurting anywhere?"

"My legs hurt and my head." Crying some, she held on to him and asked, "What happened?"

"There was an explosion, but you're okay. You're safe now and me and Detective Speedle are going to get you out of here." Looking over her legs, Horatio didn't like the way they looked and looked to Tim, "Speed, you're gonna have to support her legs."

Tim nodded and then moved to their side, taking her legs up gently. Hearing her scream in agony, Tim winced and apologized, "I'm sorry…I'll be more careful. We're going to have to take it slow."

Preparing to stand, Horatio looked to Tim and counted and then both men stood together. Holding Towanda close to his body, they began to move slowly, "Okay, sweetheart, we're gonna get you out of here…and then…then you can see your sister…"

Nodding slightly, she held on tighter as the movement jostled her and she bit down on her scream. The pain was like nothing she'd ever felt and each movement shot through her like a lightning bolt. She knew that the men were trying to help her, but as they came closer to the exit, she couldn't help the scream that tore from her lips.

Stopping them, Horatio looked to Tim, "This isn't working. I'll stay here with her, get the medics in here with a gurney and tell them they'll need to immobilize her legs."

Letting her legs down, Tim moved and glanced back as he started for the exit. "I'll get them as close as they can."

"Alright." Focusing his attention back to Towanda, Horatio reached up and smoothed back her hair from her face, "Speed's getting some help in here for you, sweetheart. I don't want you to worry now, okay?"

Nodding, Towanda cringed at the growing pain and clutched to him, "I don't want her to worry…Okay…"

Smiling some, Horatio nodded, "I'll be sure to tell her." Hearing other workers coming, Horatio pulled his mask down, sweat dripping down his brow, "Now, when they get in here, they will have to move you some, but, I want you to be brave for me, okay? They'll be as careful as possible and try not to hurt you."

"Okay," she answered softly as she cringed slightly. Looking up at him, she gave him a faint smile and said, "Thank you, sir. Thank you…"

"You're welcome, sweetheart…" he smiled as he looked down at her in his arms. Looking back up as the medics came to the door with the gurney with a few more firemen, he nodded and looked back at her, "Look's like your ride is here."

Before she turned to look at the gurney, she thrust herself against him and hugged him tightly, a surge of emotion filling her. Without the help of this man, she and her sister would've probably died. Letting him go, she wiped at her eyes and smiled, "You didn't have to do it."

Giving her a smile, Horatio sighed and nodded, "I wanted too." When the medics came to them, Horatio let them take her and he stayed close until they had her securely on the gurney. Going to her, he bent down and whispered to her, "Take care, I'll come check on you and your sister soon."

"Okay," she whispered as they began to roll her away. She smiled as much as she could as she lifted her hand to wave, the smile then disappearing under a haze of pain. As much as this day was memorable, she would never forget the bravery of one man.

Coming up to Horatio, Tim watched as they loaded the young girl and asked solemnly, remembering the condition of her legs, "Do you think she'll be okay?"

Shaking his head, Horatio looked to Tim, "It's hard to say, Speed. I think they both might be broke…but, there could be more damage." Looking back towards the room, Horatio turned towards it, "Come on, there could be a chance some more kids are in there."

Coming to a protruding hand, Tim knelt and started to pull the debris off, taking the hand and squeezing. When there was nothing, he felt the need rise to extract this person and dug in deeper, pulling the concrete off and disregarding it. Once he was finished, he reached for the body to pull it closer, realizing with great sorrow that the child was dead.

Standing slowly, he shook his head, "Unnecessary. This shouldn't have happened."

Clenching his jaw, Horatio sighed heavily as he looked around, shaking his head, "We've got to find the bastard that did this." Looking back at Tim, he nodded to him, "You gonna be okay, Speed?"

Taking a moment as he stared at the body, he nodded, "I'm…I'm going to be okay. Let's get started, okay?"

"Yeah. We need to let them know that they're still bodies in here," Horatio said as he looked down and saw both Latonya's and Towanda's blood on himself. Reaching into his pocket and pulling out his flashlight, Horatio turned it on, "Let's get going."

Following him, Tim pulled out his own flashlight and went back out into the hallway, met with several firefighter's as they came back and forth, some carrying the last of the survivors. The work was grim, but in order to find the person responsible, Tim knew he was going to have to dig deep and pull at the strength to keep himself together.

Hours had passed, and as they progressed further into the school, it was obvious that the destruction was wide spread. Even though a good portion of the school hadn't been touched by the blast, the debris that resulted punched holes into the walls, deeming it dangerous. The closer that they got to the seat of detonation, however the more grotesque the scene became. There was an eerie silence that prevailed and short from the sounds of dripping and the soft sounds of their feet shuffling to remind him where he was, Tim was lost in his own thoughts.

Breaking the tenuous silence, he exhaled heavily, "Whoever did this…knew exactly what they were doing. A filled middle school, three different bomb's. This was intentional, without any reason." Tim looked to Horatio and shook his head, "This is unthinkable, H. They were just children."

Milling through the rubble, Horatio nodded and spoke softly, "I agree, Speed. Whoever did this is more then likely a former student here, that or related to someone that works here." Shining his light over a small area and scanning it with his eyes, he glanced to Tim, "We're gonna have a long line of suspects either way."

Returning to his task, Tim exhaled heavily, "I just want to know why, H? What did any of these children do to deserve this?" Instantly, thoughts of Emma rose and he cringed, "This could've easily been Emma's school…"

"Speed. You need to stop and focus," Horatio said, noticing Tim slipping. Seeing something, Horatio's eyes crinkled as he shined his light onto an object. "Speed, I need you over here. Bring an evidence bag with you. I've got some wire and what look's like a timing device."

Pulling himself together, Tim picked up an evidence bag from the opened kit and approached gently. Kneeling next to Horatio, he asked as he opened the bag, "This could be a part of the bomb. Do you see anything familiar?"

"Not yet. I'll need to take a closer look at it at the lab." Realizing what he'd said, Horatio sighed and corrected himself, "I mean, you guys will need to take a closer look at it."

Tim heard the distraught tone and then shook his head, "I still think they ought to make an exception here. We need your expertise in this."

"I'm not going to have this case thrown out because of me," Horatio said as he handed Tim a set of tweezers. Shining the light more onto the area, he eyes the piece, "It's more then likely the timing device for one of the bombs."

"Can you see a distinct signature from first glance?" Tim asked, trying to get as much as possible. Once they left the scene, his ability to get the pertinent information would be non existent. Watching as Horatio placed the piece in the bag, Tim continued, "What we need is you to further inspect the piece and anything else. You're the one person who I can trust with this."

"Speed, you and I both know they aren't gonna let me touch any of this. Rick will have a field day and have that lab shut down," Horatio said as he placed it into the evidence bag. "It'll take a miracle to get it to where an attorney won't have the evidence thrown out."

Tim knew what he was saying was right and groused, "Just that many more criminals will be free to roam the streets." Standing quickly, he continued to survey the area, his demeanor dropping with each second. Silently, he swept the beam of light over the area, stopping as he spied something else. Grabbing another bag, he moved toward it, collecting it slowly.

Pushing through the front door, Calleigh held it open as Horatio brought in Cerise behind her and then closed and locked the door. The day had been long and hard on the both of them, each working the scene at the middle school and then leaving together to get Cerise from Alexx's. Slipping off her shoes and putting her purse and key's onto the foyer table, she went over to him and took the car seat from his hands.

His shirt still had the blood of the kids he'd rescued from the ruble and dust and soot covered him. Reaching up, she caressed his cheek and spoke softly, "Why don't you go on up and shower. I'm gonna feed Cerise and then I'll do the same."

Horatio felt numb as he looked to her, processing that she was speaking to him. Between the carnage of the scene and the disappointment at his hands off status of the case, he was left feeling empty and beat down. Nodding, he exhaled and turned from her almost robotically, feeling the absence of her warmth. The destruction that he took in was too much and being unable to fully come to terms with it, he remained silent.

Taking in his demeanor, Calleigh could tell that the day had taken it's toll on him. Setting Cerise down carefully, Calleigh placed her hand onto his arm and turned him towards her. Looking up at him and seeing disappointment in his eyes, she then closed the distance between them, her arms going up around his neck and holding onto him, "I'm here if you need me, Horatio."

Her body felt good against his and it broke his momentary melancholy, pulling away from her. Looking at her, he nodded and whispered, "Thanks." He drew her back to him and held on to her as he exhaled and closed his eyes. The images continued to haunt Horatio and he found himself pulling away from her again, "I'm going to be okay. I just need a moment."

"Okay. I'll go feed Cerise and then we all can relax together, okay? I'm sure we all could use it," Calleigh replied softly as she let him go. Picking up the car seat again, she looked to the baby and sighed, "I can't imagine what those other parents are going through tonight."

"Hell," Horatio sullenly. He bent to the car seat and reached to caress Cerise's face and sighed heavily, "They were only children, Calleigh. Who would do such a thing to children?"

Shaking her head, Calleigh took in a deep breath and released it slowly, "I don't know. But, whoever it is, we need to get him off the streets before he tries to hurt more." Cerise small cries began and Calleigh smiled, "I'll get her fed, you go get a shower and relax. Do you want anything to eat?"

"Maybe later, okay? I'm going to take a shower, I'll be right back." Standing, he took a parting look at them both before ascending the stairs slowly, each step taking him painfully forward. Once he got to the bathroom, he began to undress automatically and then started the shower, stepping into the relentless stream. For long moments, he stood under the stream and watched as the dust and blood began to rinse away, with it, the hold that the scene had over him.

Washing slowly and methodically, Horatio then washed his hair, his thoughts going to the sisters. After spending hours on site, he wanted to go and check on them, but rationalized that after the ordeal, they were going to want time to recuperate and rest. The decision to visit them later was a wise choice being that he would not have been receptive to them.

Downstairs in the living room, Calleigh nursed Cerise as she sat down with a glass of milk for herself. Looking down at the suckling infant, she blinked slowly as tears filled her eyes. With all the death and destruction she'd seen earlier in the day, she needed this bonding moment with her daughter, a reconnection. Wiping at the tears, she sent a silent prayer out for the other parents who could no longer hold there own children.

Finally coming back down, Horatio found the two in the living room. Watching them bond, he was renewed and he approach her gently, clearing his throat, "Sorry for earlier. I just needed time to get myself together."

Looking up at him, Calleigh gave him a small smile and patted the cushion next to her, "It's okay, Horatio…I understand. I know you needed time to unwind." Watching as he sat down next to her, Calleigh then looked back down at Cerise as she continued to nurse, "I think someone was really hungry tonight."

Smirking at Cerise, he touched her head slightly, "She's been away from you all day. Even though you've put milk in the bottle, there's still nothing like having your flesh and blood close. It's something to relish."

Looking up at him lovingly, Calleigh leaned over to him some and gave him a kiss before adjusting herself better for Cerise. "I missed her today a lot. I had to excuse myself a few times to go change the padding in my bra because I was leaking."

"I can understand that, she's still with you even though she can't be with you. But now you're here with her so…we should just be in the moment." Horatio leaned to kiss her temple and then asked, "Feel like eating anything?"

"Truthfully…a bowl of cereal is sounding pretty good right now." Giving him a small smile, she shrugged, "It's quick and simple and I think will hit the spot."

"Okay, well, I'll go and get the cereal. After you eat, I can take Cerise and put her to bed," Horatio said as he stood. Starting for the kitchen, he smiled lightly, "I'll be right back."

"Alright." Noticing Cerise was once again asleep, Calleigh smiled as she moved her from her breast and then covered herself back. With the burp towel in place, Calleigh lifted her to her shoulder and began to burp her, listening as Horatio got dinner. Smiling when Cerise finally burped, Calleigh rubbed her back as the small baby took in a deep breath and then released it, a content coo coming from her as she continue to sleep.

The preparation of dinner took mere minutes and he returned to her with a singular bowl and placed it on the table. With his arms outstretched, he smiled, "Let's trade."

Giving Cerise a kiss on her cheek, Calleigh moved her gently into his arms and then waited for him to sit down. When he did, Calleigh got her bowl and spoon and sat back, "I was thinking, on my next day off, why don't all of us go down and get family pictures done."

"I think that is a great idea." A wide smile came over him as he gazed at her sleeping form and trailed a finger down her cheek, "I've never had a family portrait before. This is going to be something new." Breaking his gaze with Cerise, he then smiled, "You've given me more than I could possibly hope for, Calleigh."

"You've done the same for me, Horatio. Granted we both had a rocky start…but all that just made us stronger," Calleigh said as she looked over at him. "It's made our love stronger also."

His eyes met hers and he smiled, "It's through our trials and tribulations that we are forged. We can get through anything together." Glancing back at Cerise, he raised his brows, "And she'll keep us strong."

"Yes she will." Giving him a smile, Calleigh then spooned herself some cereal and took a bite. Chewing, Calleigh watched as Horatio immersed himself into his role as a father with Cerise. Swallowing and pushing around some cereal with her spoon, she glanced back at him, "Are uh…are you going to go back in tomorrow?"

At the mention of the lab Horatio sighed heavily and shook his head, "I will if I'm called. Speed managed to find the majority of the bomb – he's going to process it and if there's anything that he doesn't get, he said he'd call me. Other than that, I think it's me and this little one."

"I'm sure she'll love being with her daddy," Calleigh said and then took another bite of her cereal. Sitting up some, she held onto the bowl as she ate and before long, she'd finished. Setting the bowl back onto the table, she sat back with Horatio, leaning against him and watching Cerise, "You know, today is her seven week birthday. It's hard to believe how time has flown by."

"Seven weeks. It just doesn't seem that much. Before you know it, she's going to be graduating college and we'll wonder where the time went." Staring at her, he sighed with content, "She's just so…beautiful. I can't fathom a second away from her."

Smirking, Calleigh moved her legs up under her and turned towards him more. Her fingers played in his hair and she whispered, "Well, you know, if we go on and put her to bed, I can show you some attention after my shower."

Horatio licked his lips and arched his brow, relishing the feel of her fingers in his hair, "I think that's a great idea. I'll go put her to bed…"

"And I'll go get in the shower. Meet you in bed in a few minutes?" she asked as she got up and looked back down at him.

Getting up gingerly, he leaned into kiss her, whispering, "I'll be waiting." Moving toward the stair case, he glanced back and gave her a knowing smirk before ascending the stairs.

Reaching down for her bowl, Calleigh carried it to the kitchen, placing it into the sink and then turning out the lights. Making sure everything was locked up for the night, she went up stairs and to their room. Going into the master bath, she turned on the water in the shower and then went back out into the room. Putting her gun and badge into the dresser drawer, she then stripped off her clothes, placing them into the hamper and then went back to the shower.

In her nursery, Horatio took great care to place her gently into the crib, watching as she fidgeted before settling and releasing a small coo. The sound caused him to smile as he stared, placing the cover over her body, already missing her warmth. His hand stayed on her and he whispered, "Sleep well, sweetie. Mommy and Daddy love you."

After a few moments, Horatio checked the monitor and then started for the door, taking one last glance before pulling the door to a mere slit. Going to their room, he pushed the door open and then closed it tightly, hearing the sounds of the shower. Turning the bedding back, he then shed his shirt and sat, awaiting the moment that she would be finished.

Rinsing off the soap, Calleigh then turned off the water and slid back the glass door. Reaching for a towel, she began drying herself off and then stepped out onto the bath map. When she finished and wrapped the towel around herself, she then brushed her teeth and ran her brush through her hair.

Shutting off the lights, Calleigh then headed out into the bedroom and smiled as she found him sitting on the bed. Going over towards him she moved between his legs as he sat on the edge of the bed and draped her arms over his shoulders, "I take it she went down without any problems."

Raising his hands to cradle her back, he looked up to her and smiled, "No, she didn't. She must've been tired from Alexx's today." Running his hands up her back to the towel, "How about you…how are you doing?"

Smiling some, she sighed with a relaxed tone, "I'm much more refreshed now that I've had my shower. Maybe next time though…you can join me."

"I'd like that," he answered with a wide smile. Deftly, he undid the towel and allowed it to slip from his hands as his brows rose, "Right now, I think we both could do with some relaxation."

Standing nude within his embrace, Calleigh smiled down at him and whispered, "I agree, Handsome." Running her fingers through his hair and pushing it back some, she then bent her head down to him, giving him a slow and seductive kiss. Tracing her tongue over his lips, she moaned lowly as he opened willingly for her and there tongue's met.

Losing himself in her kiss, Horatio allowed his hands to roam her warm skin, the softness beckoning him. As their tongues dueled for dominance, he could feel his arousal spiking, the aroma of her sex catching him. Breaking away from her, he groaned, and pulled her closer, his lips skimming over her skin. A frenzy began and he could feel her body thrumming within his touch.

Standing back up, Calleigh closed her eyes as his lips moved over her body. Moving one hand from his hair, her hand trailed over his bare freckled shoulder and she leaned into him more. Her body flushed with sexual need for him and she moaned softly, "I need you tonight, Horatio…"

"I'm here," he whispered breathlessly, his lips traversing down further. His eyes closed in bliss, her touch igniting a scorching fire. Unable to help himself, he ran his hands over her ass and down, hearing her moan in acceptance. He could practically feel her arousal and as he went lower, his own began to become prominent. He nuzzled her blond curls and groaned at it's sweet aroma, wanting to taste her.

Opening her eyes to slits and looking down at him, her other hand continued to move through his hair, his copper stands tickling her fingers. Licking her lips, she lifted her right leg, placing her foot up on the bed next to him and opening herself for him. Her breathing began to increase and she whispered, "It's been too long…"

Delving deeper into her core, his lips skimmed her sex as his hand caressed her offered thigh, his fingertips dancing over the heated skin. The more she moved, the more he wanted, pressing her closer with his free hand. Lifting from her briefly, he intoned almost drunkenly, "Extremely too long."

Getting an idea, Calleigh pushed him onto his back and hovered over him. Reaching for the hem of his sleep pants and then pulled them down his long lean legs. Discarding them, she then moved up his body, straddling him, her wet sex rubbing over his hard cock. Lowering herself down to him, she kissed his lips softly and whispered against them, "Tell me what you want, Horatio. Control me tonight."

Thrusting his lips against her soft kisses, Horatio growled as her hips dipped lower. Her actions infused him with a desire he'd never thought he'd have and he lifted his body and twisted around, bringing her to her back. Hovering over her, he smiled deviously as he pinned her arms above her, the sensation of power coursing through him propelling him forward. Bending, he nipped at her lips before trailing to her neck, devouring her almost hungrily. Sweeping up her neck, he nibbled at her ear lobe and then whispered breathlessly, "You're mine tonight. The only sound I want to hear is your screams."

Nodding breathlessly, Calleigh bite her kiss swollen lips and whispered back to him, "Yes, sir." Giving him full control over her was something she knew that he needed at this point. The feel of his lips and tongue on her neck caused her to lull her head to the side, giving him more access. Moaning softly as he hit one of her hot spots, her eyes slid closed and before she could stop herself she breathed out, "Please take me, Horatio."

The sound of her voice prompted a growl and his tender kisses became tiny bites as he pressed down on her. His voice was tinged with a sexual edge and rough as his hips thrusted against her, "No…talking…sweetheart."

Calleigh's chest heaved with her breathing and she nodded silently to him, not wanting him to stop. She loved how he took control over her and would then push her to the edge and then pull her back before falling over into pure bliss. Times like these had been few because of her pregnancy, but now, she was hoping he wouldn't hold back with her. Taking in a long deep breath, she released it slowly, relaxing more under him and giving her body over completely.

When she responded with silence, he smiled wickedly as he rose up slowly, his eyes piercing into hers. Releasing her hand, he moved her hair gently away from her eyes and allowed it to then travel the expanse, moving from her temple to the base of her jaw, his hips moving minutely. Her eyes drifted closed and he thrust against her body once again as his hand took it's place above her head, "I'm going to take my time with you. No talking, understand?"

Nodding yes in response, Calleigh reopened her eyes, looking up into his piercing blue ones. It had been a long while since she'd seen the determined look they now held. Her lips parted slowly as she breathed out her mouth and she could feel his hard cock pressing against her. Feeling her wetness increase between her legs, she shifted slightly under him, the feel of his body pressing against her turning her on more.

Her movement pulled a breath from him and he lifted almost completely from her, his brow furrowing, his voice becoming determined, "Move when I want you to move."

Swallowing, Calleigh nodded slowly, never seeing him like this before. Realizing how turned on she was becoming over his demeanor, Calleigh struggled with herself to do as he wished and stilled her body under him.

As she struggled to relax under his hand, Horatio shook his head, "You're over thinking this, sweetheart. Let me show you." Standing swiftly, he pulled her up and crushed her to his body, his lips crashing against hers. Kissing her passionately, he moved her bodily to the wall and pinned her against it, planting her arms above her head. Breaking from her, he smirked deviously, "Now…let's see if this works better." Kicking her legs open, he pressed closer and impaled her. The feeling of the smooth entry took his breath away and he growled as he thrust, filling her completely. "No…talking…"

Calleigh's eyes closed and she bite her lip in order to keep a moan of pleasure from slipping out. With each thrust he made into her, she felt herself slipping more and more towards the edge of ecstasy. Crying out suddenly as he thrust hard into her body, Calleigh felt his power over her, wanting more.

Dancing the edge, he pulled from her and grimaced, "No…talking. Do you want to finish this?" His chest was heaving and waves of frustration began to build. Covering her with his body, his lips glanced over her neck and up to her ear as he whispered, "I can take you to places you've never been. Just…listen."

Closing her eyes tight and nodding, Calleigh bite her lip, wanting to do as he said. No man had ever dominated her like this before, but the more he did, the more she liked it. Focusing on him and his voice, she dug down deep, clenching her jaw and doing as he said.

Repositioning, Horatio slipped back into her, thrusting hard. Once he was seated fully within her, he growled as her body gave with no resistance. He could hear her struggling to remain silent, the effort infusing him with just that much more power. Becoming heady with it, he manipulated her body to his desires, nipping and biting his way around her neck. Her response were simmering, and he could feel her need as he began to plummet into her body, her essence flowing easily. Now that he knew he could have it, he began to relish in the knowledge, a devious smile inching over his lips. He mastered her and now he was going to reward her. Slamming against her, he bit out, "Ride me…now."

His authoritive tone with her caused a shiver of pleasure to run down her spin and Calleigh lowered her arms down onto his shoulders for support. Lifting one leg, he grabbed hold of her and then lifted her other, wrapping both around him. Holding onto him as he pinned her against the wall, she began to move her hips as best as she could from the position she was in.

Horatio met each move with fervor, the feeling of her skin sliding against his driving him mad. He wanted to pull out her last reserves, to master over her passion as well as her release and he was greedy to take her control as well. Pushing off of the wall, he held her weight up easily and groaned as the depth of penetration changed causing him to thrust harder.

"That's it, Calleigh. Ride…harder," he coaxed as he stared at her, lost in the throes of passion. With each slam of his hips he felt his own control slipping and he breathed out, "Talk to me…"

A fine sheet of sweat covered their bodies and with his permission to now talk, Calleigh moaned out, "God, yes…Horatio…yes…" Moving her body more as he instructed, she held tight to his shoulders to help lift herself and then drop back down hard as he thrusted up into her. Her head lulled back and she cried out his name as pleasure like she'd never experienced coursed through her body.

Keeping their rhythm, Horatio cradled her back with his hands and leaned to devour her skin, his lips brushing over her rock hard nipples. He was filled with ecstasy, unable to contain his primal desires as he took a straining nipple into his mouth and bit, listening to her cries of pleasure mixed with pain. To ease the pain, he skimmed the nipple with his teeth before bathing it with his tongue, repeating the cycle with it's mate. He held her within the palm of his hands, and he relished how she responded with enthusiasm, but mostly, with love.

Time seemed to stand still as Calleigh continued to ride him. In what seemed like a blink of an eye, she suddenly felt the familiar feeling of her orgasm starting and cried out as her body seemed to move more on it's own accord. "Horatio…gonna…cum…"

The dynamics shifted in her body and he could feel her words come to life as she began to pulsate around him, the friction pulling at his own release. He increased his pace and depth, hearing her cry out more as he hit her spot. Her body tensed and he drilled through, her screams growing in intensity. Just as she climaxed, his followed and he stiffened and bellowed as his seed pumped into her pliable body.

Holding tight to Horatio, Calleigh's head lulled back as her body shook with her orgasm. Riding through the ecstasy, her body began to slow as she began to come down off her orgasmic high. Breathing heavily, she lifted her head and then laid it against his shoulder, small tremors running a course through her body as he moved slightly within her. Licking her lips, she barely opened her eyes and breathed out, "Where the hell…did that come from?"

Horatio chuckled as he moved minutely through her body, his own orgasm dwindling slowly and exhaled lightly, "I…I don't know. I'm not used to not having the authority…" He allowed his fingers to drift over the planes of her back as his voice trailed. After a moment of contemplative silence, he asked, "Are you okay?"

A smile began to form as she continued to gain control over her breathing. Lifting her head and looking into his eyes, she nodded, "I…I'm great. You really need to do that more though."

"Oh really?" he questioned with an arched brow. He licked his lips as he leaned in to kiss her, the tremor of pleasure still pulsating between them. Smiling as he parted from her, he nodded, "If it's what you want, I will."

"It is what I want. I like that side of you," Calleigh replied with a smile as she hooked her legs behind him and held onto him more. Leaning forward, she hugged him and whispered in his ear, "Next time we should also try a different position."

Intrigued, he questioned, "Different position? And what position did you want to try?" The playful side was coming out of her and he chuckled as his fingers caressed her sweat laden skin, "I can see that I've started something."

"Maybe you have," Calleigh chuckled as he carried her over to the bed. When he laid her down, she kept her arms and legs around him, keeping him there with her, "Where do you think you are going?"

Mildly surprised, he shook his head, "Apparently nowhere." Reaching to move her hair out of her eyes, he bent to her, nuzzling her neck as he lazily asked, "Now…what positions were you thinking about?"

Smiling and closing her eyes as he nuzzled her neck, she sighed contently, "I don't know. Any really would work…as long as you're controlling again. I enjoyed that side of you."

"You really enjoy that?" Lifting from her slightly, he arched a brow, "Why is that? I mean," he dipped down and nipped at her skin. Kissing it reverently, he continued, "I aim to give you what you want. I just want to know why."

"It's the tone of your voice I think. So demanding and authoritive, but, I also know, that if I say stop you will. I know you won't hurt me or anything." Running her hand through his hair, she smirked, "Now you know why I also loved to sit in when you were interrogating a suspect."

His chuckle grumbled through him as he kissed back around her neck, giving attention to the other side. Humming, he then nipped at her ear, "Can I admit something?"

Calleigh's smile grew and she nodded, "Of course you can."

Licking the shell of her ear, he smiled deviously, "I have a fantasy. Just like you like to see me in an authoritative position…I…I want you to control me."

Taken back by his admission, Calleigh turned her head some and looked at him, "You do? I mean, I've never had anyone ask me to do that before."

"I want you to," he answered as he found her gaze. He sat up and then away from her, feeling the hesitation, "Maybe I shouldn't have asked you to do that…"

Shaking her head, Calleigh sat up and reached over, her fingers turning his head back to her, "No, Horatio. It's okay. I just never knew you liked that." Taking in a deep breath, she looked him in the eyes, "I'd like to try though."

"Are you sure? I mean, if you're not comfortable with it, Calleigh…"

Placing her finger of his lips to quiet him, Calleigh smiled, "When have you ever known me to back down from something?"

"Never. So, when would you like to try?" He smiled widely and took her finger and kissed it. "I'm okay to try tonight."

Smiling again, Calleigh sighed, "I wish I could tonight, sweetie…but I've got to be in to work tomorrow." Seeing his disappointed look, she added, "But, I have the following day off…so we could try tomorrow night if you want."

"We'll see how it goes," Horatio said as he attempted a smile. He kissed her and then moved to get up, "Do you want something to drink? I'm going down stairs for a minute or two."

"Yeah." Stopping him, she raised a brow, "Horatio…are you okay?"

"Yeah…I'm okay. I'll be back in a few minutes." He got up and found his pants, slipping them on. "Don't worry, okay?"

"Okay." Watching him get his pants on, Calleigh pulled the sheet up around herself and moved to her side of the bed. Laying back, she spoke softly, "Hurry back, Handsome."

Horatio nodded and then opened the door, "I won't be long." Closing the door behind him, he started off slowly for the stair case and followed it down. Looking around in the darkness, he knew his destination and instead of going to the kitchen, he went to the patio door and opened it, allowing the sea breeze to wash over him. He wanted the clean breeze to clear his mind of the doubts of including Calleigh in his fantasy. Closing the door, he sat down on the chair and stared out into the white caps of the ocean.

Waiting for almost twenty minutes, Calleigh finally got out of the bed and got her robe. Tying it around her, she then got the baby monitor and went to the door. Leaving out there room, she first checked on Cerise and then went downstairs in search of Horatio. Reaching the bottom of the stairs, she looked around, not seeing any lights on and went to the kitchen. Not finding him there, she then went back to the living room and called out his name softly.

Not getting a response, Calleigh sighed heavily and glanced at the back door. Pursing her lips, she decided to see if he'd gone outside. Walking to the door, she looked out, seeing him sitting alone on the patio and staring out towards the water. Opening the door, she stepped out, the light breeze pushing back her robe some and bit her lip. Unsure if she should let him have his time alone, she decided to push on and spoke softly, "Horatio…"

Hearing her soft voice, Horatio broke his gaze with the ocean and crinkled his brow at her presence. The last thing he wanted to do was to worry her, but as the muted moonlight hit her, he could tell that worry was written all over her face. Getting up, he went to her and exhaled lightly, "Calleigh…what are you doing out here? You should be resting."

"I'm fine, Horatio. But something is eating at you. Talk to me," Calleigh said as her eyes pleaded with his. "You know you can talk to me about anything."

Wondering if he should bother her about it, he shook his head minutely and snickered, "It's nothing, really, Calleigh. I just needed a moment to think about things. You know, we still have a wedding to plan."

Breathing out, Calleigh crossed her arms over her chest and stared at him. For years, she'd been able to read him like a book and could tell when something was bothering him. Shaking her head, she raised a brow, "This isn't about the wedding, Horatio. Now, talk to me…please."

Turning away from her, all pretenses dropped and he exhaled heavily. He didn't know why Calleigh's denial hit him as it did- she had a perfectly good reason for not wanting to further their activities- but something had stirred within him prompting the doubts. He struggled for the words to come and hung his head, feeling her hand on his back.

After a few more moments of strained silence, he spoke softly, his voice breaking the tranquil atmosphere, "I don't know why I revealed that about myself. It's not like I've had these inclinations all the while…I…"

Listening to him, Calleigh remained silent, hearing the doubt and stress in his voice. Rubbing his back she finally spoke as he stumbled over his words, "It's okay, Horatio. All of us have hidden desires deep within that we'd like to act on." Turning him to her, she looked up at him, "And I do want to give you your fantasy, Horatio. But for me to be at a hundred percent tomorrow for all those children that were lost today, then I think we should wait 'til tomorrow night."

Giving him a small smile, she took in a deep breath, "And I do want to give you your fantasy…more then anything, I want to."

The thought of what went on earlier hit him and he waved it away, "Don't worry about it. You need to be able to concentrate on finding who planted the bombs." Making sure to keep the strain out of his voice, he smiled, "You should be getting your rest, Calleigh."

"Come to bed with me?" she asked as she leaned into him some. "I think we both sleep better when we're in the bed at the same time."

Nodding, he sighed, "I'll be up there, okay? You go ahead."

Knowing she wasn't going to win this one, Calleigh nodded and closed the distance between them. Going up on her toes and giving him a kiss, she whispered against his lips, "I love you."

"I love you," he answered as he moved her hair away from her face. His inner turmoil crested and he pulled his hand away from her, "I'll be up. I promise."

"Okay." Leaving him, Calleigh walked back to the door and opened it. Looking back at him once more, she then went back inside, closing the door behind her. Releasing a deep sigh, she headed for the stairs, hoping that he'd be able to come to terms with whatever was really bothering him.

Watching as she left, he could tell that she was at odds about his inability to confide in her and that tore at him more than anything. Staring out into the ocean for a little bit longer, he made a decision not to let this come between them, determined to tell her everything. He didn't know how she was going to react, but he had to tell her.

Going in, he closed the door and locked it back, pulling the sheers. The silence of the home was comforting, and as he walked to the staircase, he could feel his confidence returning. He needed to do this and he would, the survival of their happiness depended on it. Taking the steps, he then came to their door and opened it slowly to see her lying in bed. Unless she was exhausted, she wouldn't be asleep yet, and he wanted to get this off of his chest as soon as possible.

Coming to his side, he slipped in and pulled her close, whispering, "Calleigh…are you asleep? I need to talk to you."

Turning over onto her back and looking at him through the moonlit room, Calleigh shook her head, "I'm awake, Horatio."

The exhaustion was evident in her voice and he sighed, "I want to explain…about…my request."

Turning onto her side to face him, Calleigh nodded and spoke softly, "Okay, sweetie. I'm listening." Remembering his struggle outside, she took his hand into hers and gave it a squeeze.

Feeling her support he closed his eyes and then breathed out, "You were right, partly. I never wanted that type of experimentation, but something happened." Pausing, he opened his eyes and stared at her, hoping she would understand. "Before I was taken, I had no interest in playing roles…but Adrienne…she…I liked that she took control." Seeing her stricken expression, he shook his head and explained, "I didn't like the torture, Calleigh. I liked that she took all of the responsibility away from me. I could think clearly."

Letting his words settle in her mind, Calleigh understood what he was saying. He'd always been the one in control, he was the one everyone looked to for support, for understanding, for guidance…and for him to let that control go even for a brief moment freed him in some ways from the stress of those responsibilities. Licking her lips, Calleigh's eyes met his again and whispered, "If I'm understanding correctly, it freed you in some ways, right?"

"Yes, exactly. I didn't have to worry about anything," he answered as he reached for her. "I felt absolute…peace knowing that I didn't have a stake in pleasuring her. Having that control was her pleasure."

Lowering her eyes and thinking about it more, she then looked back up at him and held tight to his hand, "I want you to feel at peace here too, Horatio. I'll try it…for you. Who knows…" she said as a smile formed, "I might like it too."

Instantly, Horatio felt relieved and he smiled, "I would like that very much, Calleigh. But…if you ever feel as if you don't like it, we'll never do it again."

"Okay," she whispered softly. Leaning to him, she kissed him softly and whispered again, "I'll try anything with you, Handsome."

"Thank you," he responded lightly. Giving her a kiss, he nodded and then moved to take her into his arms more. "I really don't know what I did to deserve you."

Smiling as she wrapped her arms around him and laid against his chest, she looked up at him, "You were you. You didn't put on any act to hide the real you…and you loved me like I wanted to be loved."

"And I love you more than you'll ever know. I can't thank you enough for being this open and understanding." Keeping her gaze, Horatio sighed heavily, "I didn't know how you would perceive my liking something that another woman had introduced me to."

Shrugging some, Calleigh sighed, "It wasn't something you asked to happen. Besides, at the time, I had kicked you out, remember? In some ways it's my fault for being such a bitch that night and not listening."

Crinkling his brow, Horatio exasperated, "I could've been better at expressing myself, Calleigh. I should've told the truth." He pulled away from her to look at her and centered on her, "But this is neither here nor there now. It happened, and…now, we have to move from it." Caressing her face, Horatio smiled lightly, "But there are things that are now apart of me. Addiction…and well, now this."

Reaching up and cupping his cheek, Calleigh gave him a small smile, "Like I said, I'm willing to try for you. Just don't hold back from me again, Horatio. Don't be afraid to talk to me about anything, okay?"

"Okay." Bowing his head slightly, he huffed, "This is new to me, revealing so much about who I am and how I think. Thanks for understanding me, and loving me." Horatio smiled and glanced at the clock, "You need to sleep now. Work waits for no one."

"True." Leaning back to him again, Calleigh gave him another soft lingering kiss and then pulled back, "Love you."

"Love you," he whispered as he closed his eyes. The weight of the day hung over him and he blinked slowly, exhaling lightly, "It's just me and Cerise tomorrow…"

Snuggling closer to him and laying her head in the crook on his arm, Calleigh's hand rested on his chest and closed her eyes, "And you and me tomorrow night."

"Yes, I love the sound of that." Relishing her warmth, Horatio soon drifted off to sleep, leaving his doubts and worries behind.