More Than Friends

by Adrianna Nadine

This is NOT a one-plot story; it is an anthology. We all know Nick and Niamh were crushing on each other from the moment they met. Upon realising their feelings for each other, they take it a step further and begin exploring a relationship. Meanwhile, Martha finds that there's more to life than work as she creates her own love story.

10. Black Tie Ball

Black Tie Ball

A/N: I have a feeling that this is where everyone is going to start ripping my head off. This chapter starts Martha's love story…Which we'll be exploring here and there after this update in between the usual Nick and Niamh stories. So, for those of you who want more Martha, because I know you exist, it's coming soon. Not much to say about this one other than that and that this is one of the ones that has a plotline that borders on stupid, but as I've said, just roll with it.

And, I know it's a bit too early to update, but this is one of my favourite stories in the lineup and I really, really wanted to share it with you guys. That being said, I'm going to beg here and say: Please review. I'm really, really anxious to know what people think of this one in particular.

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Timeline: Mid-February 2012, the 18-26

Niamh hummed to herself as she moved about the kitchen, getting the necessary materials to throw together a quick lunch. She then groaned when a knock interrupted her. She had been hoping to have the weekend to herself, not having gotten a brief-yet, and hoped that it wasn't anyone from chambers. She took in a breath before she answered to hide her aggravation and opened the door, surprised to see Valerie standing in front of her.

"Mum?" After looking her over in confusion, Niamh motioned her mother in, saying, "Come in. Do you want something to eat? I was in the middle of making lunch."

"I can't stay for long. I just came to give you something," Valerie said, holding out an envelope trimmed in gold.

"What is this?"

"Read it and see."

Niamh flipped it over first, looking for some sort of clue and then opened it, gasping when she pulled out an invitation, also trimmed with gold. "No…" She muttered as she read it over. It was an invitation in her name to the Lord Chief Justice's annual black tie ball. Niamh's parents had been attending since before she could remember, and finally invited her to come along when she was fifteen. Since then, she attended with them every year, minus the two during sixth form.

Valerie nodded. "It's that time again. They sent yours to us because they didn't know your new address."

"I had completely forgotten about this…"

"We go every year Niamh. You used to check the post constantly, waiting for it."

"I know, I've just been busy, I…" Niamh trailed off as she read the invitation over again and, suddenly struck with inspiration, she said, "Can I invite Nick?"

"I don't see why not. The rule has always been that other guests are welcome as long as it's noted in the RSVP and they're over seventeen."

"If that's always been then how did you get me in at fifteen?"

"You father asked permission and since Bob knew us, he was confident in your manners and said you could come if you behaved yourself, which, you did."

Niamh smiled and set the invitation on her coffee table as she headed into the kitchen. "Are you sure you don't want to stay?"

"I have an event at six. I only came to give you this," Valerie said, following her and then laughing at the setup.

"What?"

"Peanut butter and honey?"

"You know it's my favourite!"

Valerie smiled. "On second thought, if you're making it, can I get one to go?"

Niamh laughed. "Fine. Just make yourself at home."

Valerie gave a small nod and sat in one of the chairs at the dining room table, watching Niamh as she worked, then, something caught her eye and she tilted her head to get a better look.

Niamh resumed her humming and looked up a moment. "What are you looking at?" She asked, curious about her mum's expression.

"You have a mark on your neck."

Niamh dropped her knife and immediately put her hand up to cover the mark in question on the right side as Valerie stood and walked over to her.

"Let me see!" She ordered as she pulled Niamh's hand away and then gave her daughter a sly, knowing smile. "Did Nick give it to you?"

"It's none of your business!" Niamh snapped as a blush crept up on her cheeks. She had gotten the love bite the previous night. She had invited Nick over, intending for him to just sleep over, but the lack of work and the long night were far too tempting to ignore. They ended up falling into bed at nine and didn't get to sleep until far after midnight.

"How do you hide that in chambers?" Valerie teased.

"Lots of makeup," Niamh replied as she finished the first sandwich and stepped away to search for her cling wrap. "It'll go away before the ball. Here, take your sandwich."

"Are you trying to get rid of me?"

"You are the one who said you needed to leave."

"Fine…I'll see you soon, Angel," Valerie said, ending with a light kiss on Niamh's cheek.

"Mum!" Niamh groaned.

Valerie simply shrugged and left.

As soon as she was gone, Niamh picked up her mobile with the intention to call Nick, but immediately changed her mind. She decided to ask him out in person instead, thinking that it'd be a bit more personal. She then once again resumed her humming as she cleaned up her small mess and, after eating, she went on to the rest of her chores for the day. For once, she was happy to not have any work to do, as, it let her get some overdue cleaning completed. While doing the housework, she thought over and over again about how to approach Nick, and had finally made up her mind to simply be forward by the time she left for chambers on Monday. However, before she could look for him, Billy caught her attention.

"Reckless driving," He said, handing Niamh a binder.

"Another one? Don't you have anything better? I want to do something exciting, like kidnapping or murder."

"Don't whine, just do it." He ordered as he walked off.

Niamh glared as he walked off and headed into her and Nick's room. She set the brief on her desk and sat to go through her handbag, smiling a little when she saw the invitation. She then pulled out a compact and double-checked her makeup, making sure her neck was well covered. Though most everyone in chambers knew about them now, she didn't want any unnecessary comments being thrown her way and felt it best to cover it. After seeing that she looked fine, she got to work on the brief.

She spent a good four hours looking over pages of details, taking notes and preparing part of the defense, growing impatient with each passing hour. 'Where is Nick?! I know he's not in court today. He better not be playing sick!' She thought a little bitterly as she shifted papers around. Then, noting the time, she picked her handbag up off the floor to search for something to eat and turned at the sound of the door opening. "Nick!"

"What?" Nick asked as he walked to his desk and set his own brief down.

"Where have you been?! I've been waiting since eight!"

"I had to help my sister with a project. I made the mistake of telling her I wasn't in court, so she dragged me to her school."

Niamh didn't respond, instead, she forgot about the food and quickly pulled out the invitation. "I…was waiting, because I…I wanted to ask you something," She said as she stood, holding the envelope to her chest.

"What?"

"Well…I…You see…Every year…" Niamh stuttered, thinking, 'Why am I so nervous all of a sudden? It's not like this is my first time asking him out! He's my boyfriend for Christ's sake!' She took in a breath and started again. "The…the Lord Chief Justice throws a ball every year and I've been invited since I was fifteen. Usually I go with my parents but…I was wondering if…Maybe…Would you be my date this year?"

Nick stepped back a moment, trying to process her words. He had heard about the ball from a few people in chambers, and had gathered that it was an important, black-tie event and that only a few select people were invited. He almost couldn't believe she was asking him of all people to accompany her. This type of event was far out of his league, and he knew he'd never fit in at it. Finally he said, "No."

"No?!" Niamh's heart dropped.

"Look, Niamh…This just isn't my thing. I wouldn't know how to handle myself and I'd never fit in. This kind of thing is just…way out of my hands."

"Okay," Niamh said after blinking a few times, trying to fight off her tears. Though she had never minded being rejected by him for dates before, this one stung. The others had never been this important to her. "I'll just…go with my parents then."

"Niamh," Nick tried to set his hands on her shoulders, but she stepped away and started shuffling around the papers on her desk.

"I think I'll finish at home. See you later," She said as she quickly swept what she could into her briefcase before picking it, her handbag and jacket up. She left as quickly as she could, not wanting him to see her cry.

Nick simply looked down at his work as she left. He hadn't meant to hurt her, but it was clear that he had, though he didn't understand why. She had never had much of a problem with rejection before.

Niamh brushed the tears from her eyes as she walked and just missed running into Martha with an absent-minded turn.

"You okay?" Martha asked, stopping once she caught Niamh's expression.

"I'm fine, really. I just…"

"No you're not. Come with me."

Niamh gave a small nod, followed Martha into her room and took a seat on the sofa at her silent urging.

"Now, tell me. What's wrong?"

"The Lord Chief Justice's ball…" Niamh started.

"What about it?" Martha asked, gently moving a strand of hair out of Niamh's face.

"My family goes every year…It's a big thing for us. And…I asked Nick, but he doesn't want to be my date! I know I shouldn't be upset, but…"

"It's alright," Martha said, setting a hand on her shoulder. "This is important to you. It's a tradition you've had for years that you wanted to share."

Niamh nodded.

"Did he give you a reason why he doesn't want to attend?"

"He said it's not his 'thing' and that an event like this is out of his hands."

"I see," Martha said, thinking, 'That is no reason for rejection! Just because he's never done black-tie before doesn't mean he can't!'

Niamh took in a breath and wiped away the last, stray tear. "Thank you for listening," She said.

"Anytime. Now, where are you off to?"

"Home. I decided to finish my work there."

Martha simply nodded and watched at Niamh left, and, as soon as she was out of chambers, Martha got up and headed straight into her and Nick's room.

Nick looked up at the sound of the door opening. "Martha?" He asked.

Without saying a word, she made her way over to his desk and smacked him in the back of his head. "What is wrong with you?!" She asked.

"What?" Nick rubbed the back of his head.

"Why did you reject Niamh's invitation to the ball?"

"She told you?"

"Answer the question."

"Black-tie just…isn't my thing. It's too formal for my taste and…I'd just embarrass her."

"That is the worst defense I've ever heard. I think you're old enough to know how to properly act at a formal event."

"Look, Martha I…"

"No. You listen to me. This event is really important to Niamh and has been for years. All she wanted to do was share it with you, and you turn her down for stupid reasons. You are going to accept her invitation and attend that ball on Saturday."

"I don't know a thing about black-tie!"

"Then I'll help you. I've been invited as well, and since this is my first black tie event in about ten years, we can learn together."

"How did you get invited?"

Martha shrugged. "That's not important. What's important is that you give Niamh a ring and tell her you're going. And, if you need a reason, just do it for her. She really wants you to go and I know she'll appreciate it."

Nick thought for a minute and finally sighed. "Alright. I'll go-for Niamh. To be honest, I'm a bit intrigued about it anyway."

"Good. I'd do it quickly. RSVPs must be in by tomorrow afternoon."

Nick nodded and turned back to his brief, thinking about what he'd say to Niamh when he did tell her about his acceptance. As he thought, he absent-mindedly worked on his defense while, at the same time, Niamh was heading up the street to her block of flats. When she finally stepped into her flat a half hour later, she put the brief on the coffee table and simply stared at it. After a moment, she decided that she didn't want to work anymore.

'I can't do this…I don't want to do this and it's Nick's fault. I still don't know why this hurts so badly. Maybe I just need to rest…I did wake up a bit early,' Niamh thought, then, with a sigh, she made up her mind to take a nap. She hoped that by doing so, she could shake off her twisted feelings, as they were affecting her will to work. She replaced her clothes with one of her pajama sets and climbed into bed, setting an alarm for two hours later shortly before she fell asleep, only to be woken up a half hour before the alarm by her mobile, which sat on her nightstand with the clock.

"Hello?" She asked sleepily, not bothering to look at the ID.

"Niamh?" Nick said. "It's me, I…"

Niamh hung up with a scowl and dropped her mobile next to her, wanting nothing to do with him, which made it clear that the nap hadn't worked.

Nick sighed and dialed again. 'I didn't spend a half hour pacing for nothing. She has to listen to me!'

"What?!" Niamh snapped a bit groggily when she answered.

"Niamh, are you alright? You don't sound well."

"I was taking a nap. You woke me up!"

"I'm sorry…I just…I…" Nick stuttered, nervously running his hand through his hair as he did so.

"What do you want, Nick?"

"About the ball…I…I changed my mind."

Niamh raised an eyebrow, curious as to where this was going.

"I want to accept your invitation."

"Really?" Niamh asked, all of her hurt feelings immediately leaving her. "What made you change your mind?" She asked.

"Martha. She said that she was invited and would help me."

She laughed. "Of course. Are you sure you want to do this? I don't want to push you into anything."

"I want to do this. For you."

"Alright. I'll include you in the RSVP and give you the details tomorrow morning before we go to chambers. Can you come over for breakfast at seven thirty?"

"Sure."
"Okay. See you then," At that, Niamh hung up and rose from bed after disabling her alarm. She threw on a simple outfit that consisted of only a pair of jeans and a black sweater and searched her handbag for the invitation, as it contained the RSVP number. Once she found it, she dialed and smiled when a familiar voice answered the phone.

"Hello?" A woman asked.

"Lynda? It's Niamh. Niamh Cranitch."

"Niamh! What a nice surprise. How's life at the Barr treating you?"

"Depends on the week. I actually called to…"

"Accept your invitation to the ball?" Lynda guessed as she pulled up a document on the computer she had been working on.

"Yes and I'll be bringing a date."

"Okay then," Lynda said as she typed, balancing the phone between her head and shoulder. "What's your date's name, Sweetheart?"

"Nick-I mean Nicholas Slade."

"I think this is the first time you've ever brought someone with you."

"It is." Niamh admitted, she had never thought to bring any other guys. She only had three serious boyfriends before Nick, and never would have thought of even asking them. She had gotten together and broken up with the first two far before the ball and the last one had left her after only a month simply because he didn't want to have dinner with her parents.

"He must be special then. I can't wait to meet him."

"Kind of. I look forward to seeing you Saturday evening."

"Likewise," Lynda said as a beep came over the line. "That's call waiting."

"It's okay; I'll catch up with you when I see you. Bye," Niamh hung up on her and then dialed Martha.

"Hello?" Martha answered as she flipped through a brief.

"Thank you, Martha," Niamh said.

"For what?"

"You know what. For making Nick change his mind."

"He was being stupid."

Niamh laughed. "He tells me that you're invited too."

"I don't know if I'm going. It sounds nice, but I haven't been to a black-tie event in about ten years and I have nothing to wear."

"Now you're being stupid. It's a wonderful event and is an honor to even be considered for an invitation! There's an easy solution to your problem."

"And what would that be?"

"Shopping. You have to have some extra money."

"I do but…"

"Good. We don't have much time so…When's your trial tomorrow?"

"Ten."

"Mine's at ten thirty, but we should both be done by noon. Why don't we go out for lunch and head off to some of the boutiques?"

"Niamh…I really don't…"

"You don't have a choice." Niamh hung up before she could protest.

Martha sighed. The truth was, she really did want to go. She was a bit wary about accepting and had been contemplating her decision all day, but now, it appeared that Niamh had decided for her, and she pulled out the invitation to RSVP.

Meanwhile, Nick sat in front of his laptop with three pages of research open. He knew nothing about black tie and quickly surfed pages on attire and mannerism, cringing at the prices of the dinner suits. Feeling defeated, he picked up his mobile and dialed, smiling when he got exactly who he was looking for.

"Slade residence, Hope speaking," His mum said.

"Mum? It's me. I need a favour."

"It's nice to finally hear from you! I was beginning to think you forgot about us."

"Mum, if I don't call, it means that everything is fine. I've told you this."

"How are you getting on? Still working on the side?"

"Here and there, but I've been getting steadier work lately."

"How's your sister?"

"I haven't seen her in a while, and that's good. It's better that she's not here creating fake drama."

Hope laughed. "She's always been a bit dramatic. Now, what's this favour?"

"I've been invited to a black-tie ball and I have no idea what to do about my attire. I don't have even a third of the money for a dinner suit."

"You can rent one for the night," Hope pointed out.

"I looked into that too, but there's so many options and…" Nick said, trying to find the right words in his flustered state.

"Wait," She interrupted. "Why are you going to a ball?"

"Niamh invited me. It's something the Lord Chief Justice does every year and she's been going since she was fifteen. I wouldn't do it for anyone but her." Nick explained. "Mum?" He asked at the sudden silence.

"It is so cute that you're going to a ball for your girlfriend!" She finally blurted out. "Do you know what she'll be wearing? You have to match her and knowing Niamh we'll have to find something violet. We'll have to get you a corsage and…"

"Mum!" Nick snapped. "It's a black-tie ball! Not a prom! There will be no corsages or pictures or matching my waistcoat to a violet dress. We're both wearing black. It matches with everything. I just wanted to know if you could help me with my dinner suit."

Hope sighed, thinking, 'You're no fun! Though I should have known…You didn't go to your prom anyway.' Finally she said, "Since I can't rush down and see you and vice versa, I'll call in a favour. There's a small shop just a little way from your block of flats, I have a friend that works there. I'm sure you remember Cheri-Anne."

"Yes," Nick said, thinking. 'I remember Cheri-Anne. She tried to shove me into a purple tuxedo for some stupid fashion show when I was fifteen! That woman isn't right in the head…Never has been.'

"She should be able to help. Though she prefers to work with bright colours, she knows a thing or two about formal wear."

"Sure. Thanks Mum."

"Anytime. You'll take pictures right? I want to see how…"

"Look, I have a brief to do so, I've got to…go…bye." Nick quickly hung up and let out a long sigh. While he loved his mum and was grateful for her help, sometimes she could be a bit crazy. 'Of course she thinks it's cute…' He thought with a small smile, knowing that it was, but still feeling like she needed to tone it down. 'I know she's eager to help but I can handle it…I hope.'

Nick thought uneasily. He then decided to occupy the rest of his time with his work, wanting to be well prepared for his trial at one. He worked for as long as he could, deciding to go to bed early since he had to meet Niamh at seven thirty. He arrived on time the following morning and wasn't surprised when Niamh called him in rather than answering the door herself. Once inside, he found her in the kitchen, throwing together the last bits of a small breakfast.

"Sorry about this. I wanted to have it done when you arrived, but I had some things to work on," She said, moving from the cooker to the counter with the last of the food.

"It's fine. I like seeing you in the kitchen. It suits you," Nick said, taking a place at the table. He turned in his chair to watch her for a bit longer.

Niamh smiled and threw off the apron she had been wearing so she wouldn't ruin her clothes. She then grabbed the plates and set them on the table, following it up with two tea cups.

"You look nice today," Nick complimented, wanting to start off on a good note.

"I look no different than any other day, but thank you."

"Though I would've preferred a skirt," He said, eyeing her black trousers.

Niamh rolled her eyes. "Of course you would," She muttered before she started to eat.

"So, about this ball…" Nick said a few minutes later.

Niamh held up a finger, signaling for him to wait until she finished what she was eating. After a moment, she spoke. "I made you a copy of the invitation. Excuse me." She got up and went into the bedroom, coming back with a paper in hand. "It starts at six-thirty and dinner is to be served from seven to eight-thirty. Then we have until eleven to dance and mingle." She explained once she sat back down.

Nick nodded as he read through it and asked, "I know I have to wear a suit, but, what will you be wearing?"

"I'm not telling or showing. All you need to know is that it's black."

"Why can't I see?"

"If I show you, it will ruin the magic of the moment."

"What moment?"

"You know. The moment you see me for the first time when you pick me up. I want you to be surprised when you see me, and if I show you the dress, it ruins that surprise."

"Okay," Nick nodded. "When should I come pick you up?"

"I'll figure that out later in the week. Eat before your food gets cold, I worked hard on this you know."

"Some eggs, bacon, a biscuit and fruit. Very hard work there."

Niamh kicked him under the table. "If you don't appreciate it, I can throw it out."

"I'm kidding. Thank you for cooking."

"Anytime," She replied, and after they finished she said, "And since I cooked, you can do the dishes. I have to finish getting ready." Then, before he could protest, she headed into the bathroom to finish her hair and makeup.

Nick sighed and did as he was told, washing them all by hand since she didn't have a dishwasher.

"Thank you," She said when he was nearly done, finishing with a kiss on his cheek. "What time do you have to be in chambers?"

"Sometime after my trial, but that isn't until one."

"Well, aren't you lucky?" Niamh teased as she selected and pulled on her court shoes. "What are you going to do with yourself, then?"

"Shopping for my dinner suit," He admitted as he dried the last dish and put it away.

"I guess we'll both be out then. I have to take Martha shopping after my trial. She needs a dress for the ball," Niamh said as Nick put on his own shoes.

"Can't Martha take herself shopping?" He asked as she gathered her belongings for court.

"She could, but I want to help. Come on before I miss the bus," She ordered as she stepped out with him following. Once outside, they exchanged good byes and brief kiss before they went their separate ways-Niamh to chambers and Nick to the shop his mum had mentioned. He didn't know the name, but he knew the place, as he had passed by it numerous times. Once he found it, he walked about lost for a bit, just staring at the products on display until a salesman got his attention.

"Can I help you?" He asked.

"Yeah. I'm…uh…Looking for Cheri-Anne."

"Cherié! You have a visitor!" He called.

Moments later, a woman with dark hair and pink highlights came onto the floor. She was just a few years younger than Nick's mother, and her clothes were bright, mimicking his sister's style.

"Nick! I haven't seen you since you got called to the Barr!" She said, pulling him into a hug with a wide smile. "Look at you! Your mother tells me you're a big barrister now!"

"Actually I'm still in the last stages of my pupilage."

"Same thing," Cherie-Anne said with a wave of her hand. "What's this I hear about a black-tie ball?"

"The Lord Chief Justice's ball. My girlfriend invited me. She's been going since she was fifteen."

"Your mum told me you had a girlfriend. Who is she?"

"Her name is Niamh," Nick said, pulling out his wallet. "Actually, I have a picture. Here."

"She's cute! How'd you get her?" She said with a playful nudge.

Nick shrugged, not wanting to go into detail. "Anyway," He said, taking the photo back. "My mum said you could help me find a dinner suit. I don't have a lot to spend, but…"

"You're not buying it. It's useless to purchase something you'll wear for one day-minus wedding attire. We specialize in formal wear hire, which is why your mum sent you here. All I have to do is get your measurements and find a suit for you. Come with me."

Nick followed as she led him into a small dressing room off to the side.

"Stand up straight and spread your arms," Cheri-Anne ordered as she picked up a measuring tape.

He did so and she wrapped the tape around his waist, made note of the measurement on a pad f paper and moved up to his chest.

"Put your hand on your hip," She ordered, moving up to measure for the sleeve and then his neck, and finally, his leg to measure the inseam, making notes when she finished. "I'm going to take these and find something. You can wait back in the shop and I'll show it to you, then we'll discuss prices and pickup."

"Okay," Nick nodded and browsed the shop while he waited. He didn't find it very interesting, but needed something to occupy himself with. He turned when she called him back and looked over what she presented him.

"This is exactly what you need. A simple, black dinner suit. This set comes with not only the jacket and trousers, but a wing tip double cuff white shirt, cufflinks, bowtie and cummerbund."

"How much?"

"Fifty pounds for the weekend and we do the cleaning for you."

"Are you sure about this?"

"It's exactly what you wear at a black-tie event. It's either this, or you disappoint your girlfriend."

"Do you have anything cheaper?"

"This is the cheapest you can get."

Nick sighed. "Fine, I'll take it."

"I'll set it aside and you can come by to pick it up on Friday. Would you like to pay now or later?"

"I'll pay when I pick it up," Nick said, knowing that he was about twenty pounds short of the cost. 'I guess I just have to do a bit of extra work. Back to babysitting and dog walking for me.' He thought as he left, deciding to go back home to work on his defense a bit more. After two hours or so of steady work, he gathered his things and left an hour before the trial was scheduled to give himself some time with the client. As he was leaving, Niamh paced outside of crown court, looking at her watch in annoyance.

"It's about time!" She said when Martha finally appeared.

"Sorry, the trial ran on longer than intended, as did the meeting with my client. Both of which are more important than shopping," Martha said. "Come on, I have to go to my flat first."

"Okay." Niamh followed her until they found her car, and once everything they had was properly stored away, they headed off. Once inside the flat, Niamh immediately headed to the closet, while Martha organized her things in the lounge.

"What are you doing?" She asked when she walked into her bedroom.

"Are you sure you don't have anything to wear?" Niamh asked as she sieved through Martha's wardrobe, most of it being work clothes. "What about this?" She said, pulling out a black dress with a belt.

"That's a sundress."

"Oh," Niamh said as she put it back. "How do you not have a real, black dress? It's an essential part of every woman's wardrobe!"

Martha shrugged. "I haven't owned one in awhile. The last one I had was a bit worn out and I got rid of it awhile ago."

"What about shoes? Do you at least have shoes to wear?" Niamh asked, moving to sit on the floor so that she could look through Martha's shoe collection, which consisted of mostly court shoes, a few pairs of sandals, a few pairs of boots and two pairs of athletic shoes.

"I could just wear my normal shoes," Martha suggested.

Niamh sighed. "Martha, you can't wear court shoes to a black-tie ball. I guess we have to look for some to go with your dress."

"Then we should hurry up. I'd like to get this over with so I can continue with my trial."

"Fine," Niamh said as she stood. "Lunch first or shopping?" She asked as they headed back out.

"Lunch. We'll need the energy," Martha said, knowing well that with women, especially Niamh, shopping was never a small, quick process.

"Can I drive?"

"No," Martha snapped. No one drove her car but her, and being honest, she wasn't sure of Niamh's driving skill. She knew that she had a license but didn't want to risk anything, since Niamh didn't drive at all due to her lack of a car.

Niamh shrugged and simply got in.

After a small lunch at a local bistro, she guided Martha to one of her favourite boutiques. She had been with Felicia more than once to rent outfits for photo shoots, as, they specialized in women's evening wear.

"How do you know about this place? It looks way out of your price range," Martha said as they stepped out of the car.

"I usually come here to window shop, and Felicia takes advantage of their hiring service to obtain outfits for shoots," Niamh explained. "I know it looks expensive, but some of the simpler ensembles don't cost too much."

Martha responded with an unsure smile and they headed inside. The atmosphere changed almost instantly, and the bustling, London street life was replaced with a world of elegant, silk clothing, shining jewels and seemingly endless racks of shoes. And, though she wouldn't admit it, Martha was sure she'd found part of heaven. "My God…" She muttered.

"It has that effect," Niamh shrugged and pulled at her hand, leading her over to a section of all black dresses. "Just start looking. For black-tie you want something simple that will still make a nice statement." She said as she began to sieve through one of the racks.

Martha watched her a moment and did the same, sighing at the lack of dresses in her size.

'None of these are me, except this one, maybe…' Martha thought as she held a garment in front of her. It was a longer piece with a modest v-neck and short sleeves.

"Not that one," Niamh said. "It's too simple. Try these." She said, holding up three dresses.

"Do I have a choice?"

"No."

"Alright," Martha took the first one she offered and moved into the dressing room. When she came back out, Niamh stood behind her as she looked in the mirror. "I look like a whore." She decided, laughing a bit as she stared at her reflection. The halter top dress Niamh had given her was too short for her taste and for black-tie. It fell two inches or so above her knees and she felt as if the top was constricting her and showing off a little too much.

"You do not. I think it looks good," Niamh assured her.

"For a seventeen-year-old."

"Then I guess this one is out too," Niamh held up a strapless dress that was the same length.

"Yes. And, it's a size too small," Martha informed her, glancing at the tag.

"Oh."

"Why don't you let me pick out my own dresses? You can help decide as I try them on."

"I guess."

"It's not that you're not helping, it's just…You and I have two different taste. Our styles differ by about fifteen years. And God knows I'm not hot enough to wear what you have in your hands."

Niamh laughed. "Okay. You pick the dress and I'll pick the shoes?"

"That sounds fair."

Niamh nodded and took a seat in the lounge chair behind her, waiting as Martha changed and then watching and waiting as she picked out a few different dresses. They went through four, each one having something wrong with it according to Niamh. Martha was grateful for the help but began to get agitated after seven choices, and, as she put the eighth one on, she made a decision.

"This one," She said when she came back out.

"Are you sure? It seems a bit…boring," Niamh said.

"I like it. It's simple, elegant and perfect for me. It has to be this one," Martha said, nodding at her reflection. This dress was a simple piece that fell an inch or so past her knees and had a modest, wide v-neck, perfect for showing off a necklace if she chose to wear one.

"You're right. It works well for you and is more than appropriate."

Martha gave a small nod and quickly changed, then, she glanced at the price tag of her chosen dress. "Thirty pounds. That's not bad."

"We haven't found shoes yet," Niamh pointed out.

"That's your job, remember?"

Niamh smiled and they moved onto the shoes. "Do you have any specifications?"

"No open toes or sandals. I plan on wearing stockings, which looks good with neither of those."

Niamh nodded and began to pick out and present a few pairs of shoes for Martha to choose from, most of them simple heels.

"What about those?" Martha pointed to the pair of shoes that Niamh currently held in her hands. It was another pair of simple, black pumps, but instead of stopping at the heel, the back was ankle-length and had a black strap that was meant to go around the ankle.

"I thought they suited you," Niamh handed the box over and watched as Martha tried them on. "What do you think?" She asked, thinking they looked great and would match perfectly with the dress.

"I think they work," Martha replied. "See, you are helpful. Let's pay for these and head out. We have work to do, you know."

"I know," Niamh nodded, and after they put everything they had looked through back in the proper places, Martha paid for the items and they left.

"What about jewellery?" Niamh asked, heading towards the shop across the street.

"No." Martha grabbed her arm. "I can wear something I already own. No more shopping, not today. I think fifty pounds is more than enough for me to spend."

"Fine," Niamh sighed as they headed back to the car.

Meanwhile, Nick stood in the magistrate's court arguing a juvenile misdemeanor case. Through his research and discussion with the client, he found it to be a simple misunderstanding and a case of being in the wrong place and the wrong time.

"While it's true that my client was out far later than she should have been, that does not automatically make her guilty. In fact, Miss Dowell confided in me that she was trying to stop the situation from getting worse. May I call her to tell her own story?" Nick said, feeling unusually confident that day. The trial was going just as he wanted it to, and appeared to be leaning in his favour.

The judge allowed it, and the defendant, Katelyn Dowell, was allowed to take the stand.

"Why don't you start with why you were out that night, Katelyn?"

Katelyn nodded. "My friend and I made plans to go out to a pub. Of course, we had to use fake IDs to get in, but, I've already been punished for that and it is not why we are here. On the way home, we were both a bit drunk and got wrapped into a conversation with some older boys. They convinced us to come with them, which, at the time, seemed fun and exciting. I know that it was dangerous for several reasons and we were lucky that we weren't kidnapped or something."

"And where did these boys take you?" Nick asked.

"To their neighbourhood."

"Where in their neighbourhood?"

"I'm not really sure. I do know that it was someone's home. They claimed that it was the home of one of their teachers. Then they handed my friend and I cans of spray paint and ordered us to help them. I said no, and I tried to stop them, but in the middle of our argument, a light went on. The shoved the objects into my hands and ran. I was confused, so I just stood there and ended up caught," Katelyn explained. "I know it sounds lame, like something you would see in a film. Personally, I would never believe it if it hadn't happened to me, but I don't often lie and I've never touched a can of spray paint in my life."

"Do you remember the names of these boys?"

"Only their first names, but I doubt that will help much."

"You continuously refer to your friend as just a friend. Why don't you give her name?"

"I didn't want to take her down with me."

"You do know that if you tell us, we can call her as a witness, correct?"

"But I…"

"Katelyn," Nick warned. "You know what you have to do and what's right."

There was a moment of silence, and after some contemplation, Katelyn finally responded. "Her…name is Sydney. Sydney Camilé."

"Is she here with us, today?"

Katelyn shook her head. "I never told anyone she was with me before today."

Nick looked up at the judge. "Sir, may I request we adjourn and reconvene when the second witness is present?"

The judge thought for a moment and nodded. "Court adjourned. We shall reconvene tomorrow at ten AM. All rise."

After everyone filed out, Nick met with the client again, assuring her and her father, who had joined her that day, that it was a good thing that she revealed Sydney's identity, saying that it would help her case.

"I know it feels bad, but you'll feel better once this is all over. It's never a good feeling when you rat someone out, but you don't want to take the fall for someone else, do you?"

"I guess not," Katelyn shrugged.

"I'll do some more research tonight and I'll see you tomorrow, okay?"

Katelyn nodded and they went their separate ways. Nick arrived back at his flat around three and got to work on the second part of the defense and, just as he had figured out the last of the witness questions, his mobile rang.

"Hello?" He answered.

"Nick?" A man said over the line.

"Mr. O'Neill?"

"I know this is a bit last minute, but our babysitter for the night had to cancel and Andrea and I were wondering if you would mind watching Johnny tonight."

Nick considered it for a moment, knowing he could use the money for his suit, and said, "Sure. For how long?"

"Six to eleven. Five hours."

"Okay. I'll be up there at six then."

"Thank you. I really appreciate it."

"No problem. I'll see you then." At that, he hung up and got back to work until he had to leave, his destination being only two floors above.

"Thanks again," Andrea said as she let him in.

"Like I told your husband, it's no problem."

"We should be home by eleven and you know the routine. Johnny hasn't eaten yet, so go ahead and make something for him and help yourself to whatever's in the fridge."

"Thank you," Nick nodded and closed the door once they left. When he turned around, he expected to see Johnny, but the lounge was empty. "Johnny?" He called as he headed down the small hallway, eventually finding the boy pouting next to his bed. "What are you doing in here?" He asked, only to have Johnny turn his back on him.

Nick sighed, walked over and knelt to his level. "Did something happen?" He asked carefully.

"No," Johnny replied.

"Then why are you in here sulking rather than playing with me?"

"Mummy is having a baby," Johnny explained after a moment of silence.

Nick simply nodded, having figured that out himself.

"It's a girl."

"Is that why you're mad?"

"I wanted a brother! It's not fair!"

"Sisters are nice too."

"How would you know?"

"I have a sister. I wanted a brother too, but having a sister is just as much fun. My sister and I played games together, and I helped her with school."

"But sisters are girly! And they want you to play tea and dolls and dress up!"

"Occasionally. But if you play your sister's games once in awhile, then she'll have to play what you like in return. You just can't be too rough. At least, that's how it worked in my house."

"How old is your sister?"

"Nineteen. Two years younger than me."

"You're a big brother."

"And you will be too. As a big brother you get to teach your sister about the world and you have to protect her and keep her safe when you can."

"Like a knight?" Johnny looked up with bright eyes. He had always had an interest in knights and tales of chivalry.

"If you want to think about it like that," Nick said with a shrug.

"That sounds fun…But, I still want a brother."

"You'll learn," Nick sighed as he stood, pulling Johnny up with him, then, changing the subject, he said, "Your mum said you haven't eaten. Did she leave dinner?"

Johnny shook his head. "Tuesday is leftover night."

"In that case, what do you want?" Nick asked as they headed back down the hall.

Johnny thought for a moment and said. "I want a sandwich!"

"What kind of sandwich?"

"Peanut butter! And honey!"

Nick couldn't help but laugh at that.

"What's funny?"

"Peanut butter and honey is my girlfriend's favourite sandwich," Nick confessed as he opened the pantry for the peanut butter.

"You have a girlfriend? Yuck."

"What do you mean yuck?"

"Girls are yucky!"

'Typical six-year-old,' Nick thought. "Actually, she's very pretty. Would you like to see a picture?"

Johnny nodded and Nick handed him the picture from his wallet.

"She is pretty," Johnny admitted.

"And she's mine." Nick took his picture back and proceeded to make the sandwich, deciding on some of the leftovers for himself and setting both plates on the table when he finished.

"Tell me more!" Johnny demanded after they had finished.

"More about what?"

"Your girlfriend."

"I've got a better idea, how about we give her a ring? She should be home."

"Okay!"

Nick smiled, pulled his mobile from his pocket and dialed Niamh.

"Hello?" She answered as she marked something in her brief.

"Niamh, it's me."

"Did you need something?"

"No. I'm babysitting and it came out that I had a girlfriend."

"And?"

"Have you got a few minutes? Johnny wants to talk to you."

Niamh smiled, holding back a laugh. "Sure. Put him on."

"She wants to talk to you," Nick said, handing him the mobile.

"Hello?" Johnny asked.

"Hi, Johnny," Niamh replied.

"Are you really Nick's girlfriend?"

"Yes."

"What's your name?"

"Niamh."

"You sound nice. Are you nice?"

"Most of the time," Niamh admitted. "How old are you, Johnny?"

"Six, but I'll be seven in April! How old are you?"

Niamh laughed. "Twenty-Two. My birthday was two weeks ago."

"If you're Nick's girlfriend…does that mean you kiss him?"

"Sometimes."

"Yuck," Johnny said with a disgusted expression that Nick laughed at.

"You'll understand when you're older."

"Nick showed me your picture! You're pretty."

"Thank you, and I would guess that you're very handsome."

"My mum thinks so." Johnny said. "She's having a baby."

"Congratulations. That means you're going to be a big brother."

"Do you have any siblings?"

"No. It's only me."

"Me too. Is it true that peanut butter and honey is your favourite sandwich?"

"Yes it is. It's been my favourite since I was your age."

"That was a long time ago."

"Not really. Look, I have to get back to work. Can you put Nick back on?"

"Okay. Bye-bye!"

"Bye."

Johnny handed the phone back to Nick. "She wants to talk to you again."

"Yes?" Nick said.

"He's a sweet kid. He switches topics very often though," Niamh said.

"I think that's normal for a six-year-old. Will I see you in chambers tomorrow?"

"That depends, what's your next case?"

"I'm still working with the same one. The trial is extended so we can bring in a witness. It's at ten AM."

"Mine's at ten fifteen. Maybe we could meet up for lunch?"

"Sure. I'll ring you tomorrow to tell you the time."

"Okay. See you then, bye." At that, Nick hung up and turned his attention to Johnny.

"She's nice and pretty but girls are still yucky! I can't believe you kiss her!"

"Enough about Niamh. Let's play."

"Okay! Grandma gave me some new furniture for my castle!" Johnny said, leading Nick into his room where his knight castle was. It was built by his dad and he was always looking to add to it. They quickly got into a game until it was time for Johnny to go to bed. After he was asleep, Nick took to watching television until his parents returned.

"How was he?" Mr. O'Neill asked.

"Good. He was a little upset at first, but I changed his mood."

"He wants a brother so badly. It's hard to explain why he can't just have one," Andrea said as she reached in her handbag. "Is sixteen okay?"

"That's more than generous."

"It's okay. You really helped us in a pinch. Thank you."

"No problem," Nick said again as he turned to leave. 'Just six more pounds to go. It shouldn't be too hard to get that.' He thought as he left. Once he got back into his own flat, he resumed his work and was back in court on time.

Though Sydney seemed in a bad mood, she eventually cooperated and things went well, at least, that's what Nick hoped as he stood outside the courtroom, waiting for them to call him back for the verdict.

"On the count of vandalism, we find the defendant, Katelyn Dowell not guilty," One of the bench members said.

'Yes!' Nick thought. He smiled at Katelyn and was thanked outside of court. Afterwards, he headed back to chambers to find a new brief waiting for him, then, at noon he met Niamh for lunch at a casual café she had picked and they went over the remaining details for the ball.

"I haven't talked to Martha yet, but I was thinking of spending the day getting ready at her flat," Niamh said as she twirled her fork around in the garlic noodles on her plate.

"Why?" Nick asked.

"I want to take her to get her nails done, and it's not fair of me to make her run around to so many places. I just think it's easier if she picks me up, we get done and then go to her flat."

"And how are we getting to the ball?"

"We'll take a cab. An event this formals calls for something far better than the bus or underground. You should probably come around five thirty."

"That's an hour from the start."

"Yes, but I don't know how long the ride will take and then we have to wait to be checked in," Niamh explained, picking up her glass as she spoke.

"Checked in?" Nick asked.

Niamh nodded. "They will have a list of who has accepted and their guests. It's to assure that there are no unauthorized people there. And, nearly every year at least one person tries to bring their kid, but they're always denied."

Nick nodded, understanding why they refused children.

"Do you want desert?" He asked after a few minutes.

Niamh shook her head. "No. Not from here," She said, sieving through her handbag for her wallet. "Do you want me to pay for yours too or…?"

"No. I've got this one. Just give me your share and I'll pay."

Niamh nodded, handed him the money and waited while he paid at the register.

"If you don't want desert here, then where do you want to go?" He asked once he returned.

"The ice cream place down the road."

"Okay," Nick agreed and they left holding hands, each holding a briefcase in their free hands. The walk was short and the place, small and quaint. It was quite homely, Nick thought as the queue moved up.

'I bet she gets something small and simple, like vanilla. Most women I took out for ice cream did, something about not wanting to seem like a fat ass,' He thought as Niamh contemplated the menu board.

"Chocolate dipped in peanut butter in a sugar cone, please," Niamh said when she finally made her choice.

'What?' Nick thought with a slightly confused expression.

"Sir?" The woman at the counter asked, snapping him out of his thoughts.

"Oh, sorry. Can I get a double scoop sugar cone? One scoop strawberry and the other vanilla."

"Okay," The woman nodded as he handed her the money. Then he moved over to the side with Niamh as the waited for the orders to be finished.

"I can't believe you got that," Nick said as they left.

"Why?"

"Most women I took for ice cream would usually get something…"

"Plain? Like strawberry or vanilla?"

"Yeah, how did…?"

"I am a woman, Nick. I used to be like that, until I realized that it was stupid and that I should be able to eat whatever I want without being judged. I found that a good amount of men find it hot when a woman actually eats."

"Niamh?"

"Hm?" She stopped and turned toward him.

"You have a little…" He trailed off as he leaned in and gave her a light kiss. "Never mind. You taste like peanut butter."

Niamh giggled and they moved on, both deciding to go home after their walk.

Once she was inside her flat, Niamh dropped her stuff and called Martha to tell her the ideas she had for Saturday.

"What, Niamh?" Martha asked when she answered, aggravated with the work in front of her. It simply wouldn't come together the way she wanted it to.

"What are you doing Saturday morning?"

"I don't know, why?"

"I'm taking you to get your nails done."

"Why?"

"For the ball! I was thinking we could go out, get our nails done, and spend the rest of our time at your place."

"Niamh, I don't have the money for something frivolous like that."

"I know someone who will do it for free. All I have to is help her out from time to time."

"Okay, but why do we have to get ready at my flat? Can't I just take you home?"

"I don't think it's fair for you to run all over the place for me. Besides, I kind of wanted you to arrive with Nick and I."

Martha thought for a moment and finally she said, "Okay. I'll pick you up at noon, alright?"

"Okay," Niamh nodded, though Martha couldn't see it, hung up and went back to work on her new brief, as the last had only been a one day trial. 'Double kidnapping? This could be interesting…' She thought with a smile as she flipped through the paperwork. The trial was listed for three days, the next, Friday and Monday. She had been told that she'd been given the case simply because those on the senior end were busy, but knew that it was a lie, at least, part of it. She was starting to gain respect in chambers and was developing her own skill. Even Kate once admitted that she was getting good, but still made it clear that she hated her and Nick having places in chambers.

'Well, she can piss off. She mostly does prosecution anyway and I defend,' Niamh thought as she wrote something in her notebook. Though she was unsure of the case, she changed her mind when she met with the client, who seemed to be set up.

"So it wasn't you who picked the children up off the street?" She asked bluntly.

"No," The man said. "My ex wife needed someone to blame and naturally, she blamed me. I was nowhere near the school that day, as my boss will testify."

Niamh nodded as she wrote something down.

"Can I ask you something?"

"Sure."

"How old are you? Because to be honest, I'd feel better if I had someone more…experienced working my case."

"I am twenty-two and perfectly capable of handling this," Niamh said with a glare.

"So, you're one of them. Baby barristers…You're not good for anything but minor traffic cases."

"Look, I'm not asking you to like me, and frankly, I don't care if you approve of me or not. But, I am doing your case and you will have to accept it. You are in no position to be judging barristers anyway. Now, tell me where you were that day."

"Actually, I'd rather do something else with you," He said with a sly smile.

I have a boyfriend!" She blurted out, the statement being the first thing that came to mind.

"Um…Okay? I was thinking more along the lines of replacing you. You didn't think…" The man laughed. "Oh, God, no. Not only are you too young, but you're not my definition of beautiful."

At that, Niamh stood and left the room. She stood outside for a few minutes, calming herself down and trying to resist the urge to go back and slap him.

'His opinion of my appearance doesn't matter. It's my skills that are important.' She told herself. 'Just because he's a jerk, doesn't mean he's a kidnapper. Now go back in there and show him that you are worth something.' She then took in a breath, went back in and pretended as if nothing happened. He cooperated a little more after a bit, and she went into court confident in her defense. Things went well over the first two days of the trial, and Niamh was sure they'd get the verdict they desired and that the client deserved, despite his attitude.

However, she was thinking of none of that when she woke up Saturday morning. After a quick glance at the calendar she smiled. 'Today's the day!' She thought as she got up, spending most of the morning going over her outfit and selecting the proper jewellery and makeup for that night, all of which she swept into her handbag shortly before Martha arrived.

"Now, where are we going?" Martha asked as Niamh set her belongings, including her newly dry-cleaned dress, in the boot of the car.

"Camden. Here's the address," Niamh said, handing Martha a piece of paper.

"You're not going to get me lost are you?"

"Not if I drive."

"No. No one drives this car but me, stop trying."

Niamh shrugged and got in.

The ride was mostly silent, except for Niamh's directions here and there, and whatever small talk they thought of.

"How's your trial going?" Martha asked as Niamh pointed out the next turn.

"My client is a jerk, but the case itself is fine."

"You'll get that sometimes. Left at this light?"

"Yes. Then keep going straight until I tell you to turn."

"So, this is where you're from? It's kind of a…strange place."

"There's a lot of alternative culture, but there are plenty of places that are normal, like my neighbourhood. Turn right up here."

"This place?"

"No, my parents live a few streets down. Number twenty-four."

Martha nodded and quickly scanned the street for a parking spot.

"Come on," Niamh said, grabbing her wrist once they stepped out.

"Where are we, exactly?" Martha asked, looking at their surroundings.

"You'll see."

Though she had a key, Niamh knocked once they came to the door.

"Niamh!" Teresa said when she answered. "What are you doing here?"

"My mum didn't tell you? It's that time of year again."

"Did I miss your birthday?"

"No," Niamh laughed. "The black-tie ball. I was wondering if you could do my nails."

"Of course, Sweetheart!"

"I hope you don't mind, but, I brought a friend with me," Niamh said, moving so that Martha could be seen. "This is Martha Costello."

"Of course it's okay. Nice to meet you Ms. Costello."

"Likewise, Ms…?"

"Greye. But, please, call me Teresa. Come in, come in." Teresa ushered them in. "Just take a seat on the sofa while I get my things. Who's first?"

"Martha," Niamh said.

"I'm fine with that."

"Sit then. Felicia! Pippa! Niamh's here!"

As Teresa went upstairs, two girls ran down.

"Niamh!" Felicia said, pulling her into a hug just as her mother had. "I feel like it's been forever."

"It's only been two weeks, Felicia. I've been busy, and on top of that we live two completely different lives in two completely different areas now."

"I know, but I still miss you!"

"Me too," Pippa said. "Felicia is no help with English."

"I don't need words. I use pictures," Felicia claimed as she titled her head to look past Niamh. "Oh, hi Martha."

Martha simply nodded to her.

"Why are you here anyway?" Pippa asked.

"We are here to get our nails done. The Lord Chief Justice's ball is tonight."

"So you invited her, but not me," Felicia said.

"No, I have my own invitation," Martha said. "Niamh's taking Nick."

"Aww! You two are so cute together!"

"Stop. You sound like my mum," Niamh laughed as Teresa returned with the large, black case that held her at-home nail kit.

"What colour?" She asked Martha.

"I was thinking just a clear…"

"No!" Niamh interrupted. "Clear coats are boring and only for little kids. How about red? It would match your lipstick."

"Very funny, but I guess it would look good," Martha thought as she stretched her arm out, studying her nails carefully.

"Good lord!" Teresa said, grabbing her hand. "When was the last time you had your nails done?"

"About two years ago," Martha confessed.

"No wonder your hands look like this…This'll take some work. How about you hang out with them for awhile?" Teresa suggested to Niamh.

"Okay," Niamh shrugged.

"Good, you can help me build my portfolio!" Felicia said as she grabbed Niamh's hand and promptly pulled her upstairs.

"Where's your dad, today?" Niamh asked.

"He's doing the shopping this week."

"Can you help me with my essay?" Pippa asked. "I don't get poetry."

"Go away," Felicia snapped. "Niamh is my best friend. Not yours."

"You sound like a little kid," Niamh pointed out.

They ignored her.

"You think you're so special because you're an adult! Why don't you get a real job?" Pippa snapped back.

"Should we do something about that?" Martha asked, once she heard the argument.

"They'll work it out," Teresa shrugged as she filed Martha's nails. "Other hand."

Eventually they did work it out, but only because Niamh ended up being the voice of reason.

'It's times like these I'm glad I'm an only child…' She thought, saying, "I'll help both of you." She then took out a coin. "Heads or tails?"

"Tails!" Felicia said.

Niamh flipped it. "Heads. I help Pippa first."

"Fine," Felicia sighed.

"Niamh tells me you're a QC," Teresa said as she searched her polish collection.

"She's right. And, it wasn't easy. The dark red."

"I have around twenty shades of…"

"The one in your hand."

"Oh, okay. How long have you been at the Barr?"
"Fifteen years."

"About as long as I've been at my job, but I guess by that time you're due for a promotion," Teresa said, applying a base coat to the nails on Martha's left hand as she spoke. "You'll have to wait a few minutes for this to dry before I put the colour on, and after that dries, I have a top coat and a concealer. Do you want a pedicure too?"

"I won't be showing my toes, so, no. Thank you though."

"Okay," Teresa shrugged. "So, we all know Niamh is seeing someone, what about you?"

"Not now."

"Oh. What do you know about Niamh's boyfriend? She won't tell me much, just that he's in chambers too."

"Nick's a nice guy and just perfect for Niamh. Being honest, I think they complement each other. Has she shown you any pictures?"

"One at Christmas. He's cute, if I remember correctly."

"He is. But, he's even cuter with Niamh. Even if they haven't admitted it, I think they're in love. Don't tell Niamh I said that."

Teresa sighed. "Young love…Other hand."

After she finally finished with Martha, Teresa called Niamh down, who wanted a mani-pedi with both sets of nails being done in deep-violet.

"Always with the violet," Martha sighed as she watched Teresa apply Niamh's chosen colour.

"Of course," Niamh replied.

Meanwhile, at his flat, Nick was busy getting ready in his own way. When he had gotten up, he took out and set aside the suit he had picked up the previous day, double-checked it and moved on to doing a bit of necessary cleaning and working on his newest brief, which was a prosecution.

'I don't really like to prosecute, but…I guess it's good to try my hand at it,' He thought as he took notes. 'All I have to do is present evidence.'

He figured that he'd start getting ready at four, knowing that it wouldn't take long, while Niamh and Martha, who had returned to her flat at two, started right away.

"We're both going to have to take baths," Niamh pointed out as she hung her dress on the closet door in the bedroom.

"You first, you're the guest," Martha said, lying her own outfit on the bed.

"Are you sure?"

Martha nodded. "Just let me get you a towel and a dressing gown."

"You have lavender and vanilla, right?"

"All the bath solutions are under the sink."

Niamh nodded and headed into the bathroom. Once there, she searched through the stuff under the sink, and found exactly what she was looking for. Since the bubble bath was separate, she took a cup and mixed them together, just as she did at home.

"Here," Martha said, coming in with a towel and dark-blue dressing gown. "What are you doing?"

"Mixing my favourite scents. Lavender and vanilla."

"Okay," Martha shrugged and left as Niamh began to run the water.

She poured the solution in as it ran and stood to undress while Martha got to work in the longue. She had a murder trial coming up on Monday, and wanted to be well-prepared, as always. However, after an hour, she began to get impatient, but not with the work, with Niamh.

'My God! How long does it take to take a bath?!' She thought just as Niamh finally stepped out of the bathroom.

"Your turn," Niamh said, stepping into the living room.

"What took you so long?"

"It's a bath. I'm supposed to linger. Just go get done so we can do our makeup and hair."

Martha rolled her eyes and moved past Niamh and into the bathroom. She decided to use a mixed berry solution for her bath, and while she set it up, Niamh looked over Martha's brief for a bit. Then, she moved into the bedroom, sorted out the makeup in her handbag, set aside her shoes and put only her necessities in the clutch she planned to carry that night. Afterwards, she went back to the brief and read over more of it until Martha reappeared, allowing Niamh to get back into the bathroom.

"You have a curling iron, right?" She asked.

"Of course. It should be on the opposite side of the bath solutions."

Niamh smiled when she found it, while at the same time, Nick got up to get ready himself. He decided to start with a shower, which took far less time than the women's baths. In fact, he spent more time figuring out the different parts of the suit than he did in the shower.

'Why does this have to have so many parts? Can't I just wear my work suit?' He asked himself, though, he already knew the answer. 'I can't believe I have to wear a bowtie…I look like a dork!' He thought when he was finally dressed. He then looked at the clock and realized that he had a half hour left before he had to pick Niamh up and decided to continue working.

Meanwhile, Niamh had convinced Martha to let her do her makeup and was working on the last of it. "Just a little bit of the onyx colour and you'll be done," She said, brushing some eye shadow from Martha's colour pallet. "Okay, open your eyes."

"Do I get a mirror?"

"Not until you get dressed. I want you to see the full effect. I'll take my clothes and dress in the lounge. You can stay in your bedroom," Niamh said as she left the bathroom. She then gathered her clothes and moved into the longue, but realized that it was a bit of a bad idea to be alone with the dress she had. "Martha!" She called.

"What?" Martha replied.

"Can you come help me?"

"With what?" Martha asked as she stepped out, dressed except for her jewellery.

"I can't zip up my dress. The end is too low down my back."

Martha sighed and did as she was asked.

"Thank you."

Martha nodded and turned back around as Niamh found and put on her chosen jewellery as well, finishing off the whole look with her shoes and just a bit of perfume. She then went to the bedroom and carefully knocked on the door, entering at Martha's welcome.

"So, what do you think?" Niamh asked, taking a place behind her in front of the dressing mirror.

"I look hot," She said as she looked herself over. She had paired her dress with her chosen shoes, black stockings and a small assortment of jewellery. Around her neck hung a simple, diamond necklace that had been a Christmas gift from her mum and matched her small, diamond earrings and the bangle around her right wrist. Her makeup was light and subtle, and consisted of only her lipstick, a bit of mascara and the eye shadow that Niamh had done, which was a dark, but lightly applied layer of violet with a bit of onyx mixed in.

Niamh laughed. "You do, really. Come on, we've got a few minutes before Nick is supposed to arrive," She said, motioning Martha away from the mirror to get a better look at herself. She had chosen a simple, strapless black dress that reached to the floor with what was made to look like a sash just a half inch or so under her breasts adorned with a small bow. It was one of two fancy dresses she owned, and she had paired it with a necklace on which the main part was a heart-shaped purple gem, surrounded by small cubic zirconium bits meant to look like diamonds, a birthday gift from her mum. The colour of the heart matched her earrings and the outfit was finished with the black, peep-toe pumps that she had worn on her and Nick's first date, as, she wanted to show off her painted toenails. Her makeup was light like Martha's, as she had used the same colour eye shadow, but her lipstick was a light-pink colour rather than the red Martha favoured.

Both women had decided to leave their hair down with the ends curled; the only real difference was their fringes. While Niamh's was pushed behind her ears, Martha had pushed hers to the side.

'I know I've worn this dress before, but it's never any less stunning,' Niamh thought with a quick twirl, stopping once she saw Martha picking up her handbag. "You can't take that!"

"Why not?" Martha asked.

"Because black-tie is a formal event and is no place for roomy handbags. You should carry a clutch instead. All you really need is your compact, lipstick, keys, I.D. and a little bit of money. You have a clutch, right?"

"I do, actually. And, it's black," Martha said as she opened a drawer on her dresser. After a few moments of searching, she finally found the handbag in question and began to put a few things in it.

"Perfect," Niamh said, grabbing her own clutch just as knock came at the door. "That's Nick. Go answer it, I don't want him to see me yet."

"Alright, alright," Martha said as she left, finding Nick at the door, just as Niamh had predicted.

"Martha? You look…wow…" Nick said, unable to find the right words.

"You clean up well yourself," She replied.

"Oh, well…this is for you." From behind his back, Nick produced a single, red rose.

"Oh, thank you, Nick."

"Where's Niamh?"

"Niamh!" Martha called.

They both heard soft thuds as Niamh's heels collided with the hardwood floor and, when she finally appeared, Nick had to step back a moment.

"Oh, God…Niamh…You look…Gorgeous."

"Thank you," She said with a slight blush.

"For you," He said, presenting her with a rose as well.

"I see Martha got one too."

"I didn't think it was fair to give one woman a rose and leave the other empty-handed."

"Good thinking," Niamh said, then, getting a sudden idea, she titled her head toward Martha and mouthed something.

Reading her expression, Martha smiled and they both took places of Nick's side, and, after a signal given by Niamh, they both leaned in and kissed Nick's cheeks.

"What the…?" Nick said, wiping the lipstick off his face. "Never mind, can we go? The meter's running."

"You already hailed the cab?" Martha asked.

"It was easier that way."

"Just let us get our coats," Niamh said, picking hers up from the sofa and throwing Martha the other one there. Once they were situated, Niamh took Nick's arm as he led them outside and to the cab. "I forgot to say, you look nice," She said to Nick once they were settled inside the cab as Martha relayed the address to the driver.

"What's the purpose of this party, anyway?" Nick asked.

"Hm?" Niamh said, her head leaning on his shoulder.

"I read that black tie is a party with a purpose, so, what's the purpose?"

Niamh shrugged. "There's none really. Unless getting legal people together counts as one. It's just a party."

The cab ride took a half hour and the time was passed by them making small conversation and taking in the sights around them as they passed. When they finally arrived, they split the cost of the cab and stepped out in front of a rather posh hotel.

"Are you sure this is it?" Nick asked.

"I'm sure. It's held here every year," Niamh said as she walked ahead. Once inside, she caught the attention of one of the attendants outside the ballroom who directed them to the coat closet.

"Now what?" Nick asked once the stepped out.

"We wait in queue to be checked in," Niamh explained as they joined said queue behind a woman who held the hand of what looked like a six-year-old boy. "Told you," Niamh whispered to Nick.

They waited patiently as the queue moved and were not at all surprised when the woman in front for them was denied admittance.

"Sorry, no children," The woman at the table, Bob's sister, Anna, said.

"Please? I swear he's really well behaved and…" The woman tried to argue.

"No. The invitation clearly states no guests under seventeen. Occasionally exceptions can be made for those one or two years younger but even those are rare. Black-tie balls are no place for little children and he will not be let in," Anna said back.

"But I…"

"I'm sorry, that's the rule and we will not budge. Please move aside."

The woman stalked off and Anna looked up at Nick and Niamh, "Name?" She asked.

"Cranitch."

"Niamh?"

"Yes ma'am."

"May I see your I.D.?"

"Sure," Niamh said, quickly handing over her driver's license.

"Alright. And, if you're Niamh then you," She looked at Nick, "Must be Nicholas."

"Nick," Nick corrected her.

"I.D. please."

Nick handed over his own card and waited while she checked them off.

"You're both at table five," Anna informed them as Nick then stepped to the side and she went through the same process with Martha, who was placed at the same table. And, once she was done they stepped into the ballroom.

"Niamh!" Valerie called, motioning her over.

"Mum," Niamh nodded when she stepped over. "Papa," She said with a smile before giving him a light kiss on the cheek.

Stephen smiled and gently cupped her face with one of his hands. "Look at you," He said, looking over her outfit.

"Our Angel is all grown up," Valerie whispered.

"Mum, not here," Niamh hissed under her breath.

"Sorry, Niamh."

"Oh, Mum, Papa, you remember Nick and Martha."

"Of course we remember your boyfriend, and it's nice to see you again, Ms. Costello," Valerie said, stepping over to Nick to look him over. "Look at you. You clean up nicely, Mr. Slade."

"So, Martha, may I call you Martha?" Stephen said.

Martha nodded.

"Tell me about your latest case. Niamh doesn't like to relay details of hers."

"I just got it yesterday. It's a murder trial."

"Tell me about it," Stephen said as they walked off.

Niamh rolled her eyes as they headed off. Her father was always looking to hear about and help with cases. "What have you been working on, Mum?"

"I have a wedding coming up soon, actually," Valerie replied.

"When?"

"March sixteenth. I was kind of hoping I could get some help."

"It will depend on my schedule."

"What about you, Nick? Would you like to help serve one-hundred and twenty-seven people dinner and cake at a reception?"

"No thank you. I'm not very good at food service. I could ask my sister though. She's a waitress."

"Really?"

"Mum, you want might to distract Papa before he starts telling Martha how to do her job," Niamh said, tilting her head to the side.

Stephen appeared to be going on about something and Martha looked both bored and aggravated.

"Right." Valerie left and Niamh took Nick's hand.

"Where's the Lord Chief Justice?"

"He usually doesn't show until just before dinner. It's…"

"I just knew you'd be here," A voice said from behind.

Niamh took in a breath and turned around with a smile on her face. "Hello Gregory."

"Hello Miss Cranitch," Gregory said with a slight leer that made both Nick and Niamh uncomfortable.

"How's school?"

"Okay. Little birds tell me that you're actually at the Barr now."

"Yes. Shoe Lane Chambers to be specific."

"Can I count on a dance later?"

"If I have time."

"Come on, we both know that…"

Niamh held up a hand. "Stop there. We've been going through this for the past four years. I have no interest in going out with you, nor will I ever. Besides, I have a boyfriend."

"Who?"

"Nick, this is Gregory. Bob's son," Niamh said.

"Nice to meet you," Nick said as Gregory looked him up and down.

After he finished observing, Gregory gave a disapproving huff and turned around.

"What was that about?"

"He's been trying to ask me out for the past four years. I always say 'no,' but he's persistent. Don't worry about him, he's no competition. Let's go mingle for awhile," Niamh said, gently pulling at his wrist.

Though it was uncomfortable at first, Nick soon found it easy to make small talk with those around him and separated from Niamh for awhile until they had to sit down for dinner. At that time, the Lord Chief Justice finally appeared to formally welcome everyone and to relay the schedule for the night, and, as soon as he stepped off stage, the band began to play a few soft notes.

"What is for dinner anyway?" Nick whispered to Niamh.

"Didn't you read the menu?" She asked.

"There was a menu?"

"I must have forgotten to copy it…It's rosemary and garlic chicken, roasted red potatoes, two vegetables and either rolls or breadsticks-it changes by year."

"Do we get dessert?"

Niamh nodded. "Fruit parfaits."

"Sounds good to me," Nick shrugged as Niamh joined the conversation her father was having with Martha. Moments later, the servers arrived to pour drinks, giving everyone a few different choices.

"Miss?" One of the waiters asked Niamh, in position to pour the remnants of the bottle he held into her glass.

"No thank you. I'll take sparkling water instead."

"Do you have a preference?"

"Cherry, if you have it."

"Yes, Miss."

"Not drinking tonight, Niamh?" Stephen asked.

Niamh shook her head. "Maybe later. I don't feel like drinking right now."

"That's fine," Valerie said, "Now about the garden tea…" She went one about some small catering event and the waiter returned with Niamh's requested drink, which she thanked him for before turning back to her mum.

"But, enough about me. What have you been up to, Niamh?" Valerie finished.

"The usual," Niamh shrugged.

"Any good cases lately?" Stephen asked.

"None that I'm going to reveal."

"Why not?" Nick asked.

"Because, I want to do my job on my own and don't seek advice unless I'm truly stuck."

"Stubborn as always," Stephen whispered to Valerie.

"Of course. She is your daughter," Valerie whispered back, smiling as Niamh struck up a conversation with Martha.

Moments later, the food was served and the conversation died down for a bit, minus a few breaks for occasional small talk.

During desert, Bob and his wife gave a little speech and introduced a few new and important people before the staff began moving tables aside to make a dance floor.

"What are we supposed to do, now?" Nick asked.

"I told you. Until eleven we're to dance and mingle, alright?" Niamh told him.

"I'm not sure if I…"

"I will teach you, then. Come on." Niamh took his hand and led him out onto the dance floor with the other couples.

Nick remembered his mum teaching him how to dance when he was a younger, but he had only done it once at a school dance. However, despite his insecurities, as soon as they moved it began coming back to him. He pulled Niamh in as close as he could and took the lead.

"They're so cute, aren't they?" Valerie whispered to Martha as they both stood off to the side.

Martha nodded and took an absent-minded sip of champagne. "Shouldn't you be dancing with your husband?"

"He's over with a few solicitors and besides, he always dances with Niamh first."

"That's sweet."

"Why are you standing here, anyway? It's a party, go mingle."

"Look, I really don't…"

"Go," Valerie urged, pushing her away.

'I guess it's just like a big touting party…' Martha thought as she walked off. She managed to strike up a few conversations, but they were nothing too interesting. After awhile, she found herself trying to get away from a woman who did nothing but brag on and on about her son's accomplishments. 'How the fuck do I end this politely?' She though, nodding at something the woman had said.

"See! I knew it was unfair. If you ask me the kid who actually won that award was…" The woman started.

"Excuse me, miss?" A man said from behind her.

"Yes?" She said with an annoyed look.

"The woman over there was asking for you," He pointed across the room.

Recognizing the person, the woman nodded. "My sister. I'm sorry, miss, but I have to…"

"No, it's fine. Go on," Martha said with a wave of her hand. "Thank you," She said to the man.

The man shrugged. "You looked like you were having some trouble, so I thought to help. Something tells me you're not at all interested in children's music recitals."

"No. I prefer courtrooms myself."

"Darien Marshall, Solicitor's rep," He said, holding his hand out.

"Martha Costello, QC," Martha said with a nod as she shook his hand.

"No way. You look way too young to be a QC."

"That's something I don't hear every day."

Darien laughed. "And how old are you, twenty-seven?"

"You're funny," Martha said with a smirk. "I'm not telling."

"That's fine. Why don't you tell me about your latest case? Drink?"

"Sure," Martha smiled and they moved across the room.

On the floor, Nick found himself dancing with another solicitor's rep as Niamh danced with her father. They were in perfect sync with each other, and for the first time Nick was truly seeing the softer side of Stephen-the side that truly loved his daughter despite his high expectations and strict attitude towards her occasionally.

When Nick turned back to his partner, Stephen picked Niamh up and twirled her around.

"Either you're getting heavy or I'm getting old," He said when he set her down.

"It must be you, because I am not heavy," Niamh snapped.

"Alright," Stephen replied, thinking, 'I guess it's a touchy subject…'

"How have you and Mum been getting along?"

"She misses you sometimes. The other day I caught her making peanut butter cookies."

"With a touch of honey?"

Stephen nodded. "She may miss you, but she's proud of you," He said, hiding his own feelings. The truth was, he missed Niamh as well. He missed having her around for dinner, her greeting him when he came home, and most importantly, her laughter. There was never a frown in the room when she started laughing.

"And you?" Niamh asked, a slight longing in her eyes. She yearned his praise sometimes, feeling as if she had to work harder not only because of her background, but because of her gender, as she was thought to have been a boy.

"You know I'm proud of you. You have a place in chambers and handle yourself well. You've grown up nicely, Niamh."

"Thank you," Niamh said with a slight blush as the dance ended. "Go dance with Mum. I know she's been waiting."

Stephen nodded and walked off as Niamh tried to make her way back to Nick. However, her path was soon blocked by Gregory.

"Niamh," He said.

"Excuse me, Gregory," She said politely, trying to get past him.

"I came to ask you for a dance."

"I can't. Nick is waiting and…" She trailed off as he grabbed her hands.

"You don't have a choice."

Niamh sighed and nodded, figuring that one dance couldn't hurt and hoping that it would get him off her back for the night.

The dance itself wasn't hard, but slowly grew awkward as Gregory's hand traveled dangerously low down her back.

"What are you doing?" She hissed.

He replied by pulling her closer and resting his hand in the middle of her back for a moment, and once he was sure Niamh had settled a bit, he moved back down and suddenly grabbed her bum.

Niamh shoved him away with a gasp, turned and stomped off, finding it no use to cause a big scene.

"Niamh," He said, reaching for her as he followed.

"Don't," She snapped with a glare.

Gregory immediately stopped and she moved on, finding Nick leaning against a wall.

"What was that about?" He asked.

"Don't ask. Let's get a drink."

"I thought you weren't drinking," Nick said as Niamh linked her arm with his.

"I never said I wasn't drinking. I just didn't feel like drinking during dinner."

"Oh."

As they made their way towards the table in the back, Martha ended part of a conversation with Darien and a few people and excused herself to get a drink. They waved her off and she turned in the proper direction, only to run straight into another person.

"Oh, God, I'm sorry," They both said, almost in sync.

"No, it's fine," The man said. "It's my fault. I should have been looking."

"I wasn't paying attention, I should have looked first," Martha said.

"If we keep trying to shift blame, we'll be here all night."

Martha laughed.

"You've got a pretty smile," He complimented.

"Not really," Martha confessed, feeling as if she should introduce herself to the stranger complimenting her. "Martha Costello, QC."

"John Carter," He thought for a minute. "History teacher."

"Well, Mr. Carter…"

"Call me John."

"Okay, John. What is a history teacher doing at a ball full of legal professionals?"

"My sister's a solicitor and I'm her date. She didn't want to come alone."

Martha nodded. "And, do you always compliment women you run into?"

"Sometimes. And sometimes I also ask them to dance."

"I don't dance."

"Nonsense. Everyone dances," John said, taking her hand.

"No. I really don't. I remember learning a bit when I was younger, but…"

"I'll teach you then," He said once they were out on the floor. "Just…take my hand, and put your other one here…good…"

Though she was nervous, Martha soon found him to be a good teacher, and it became easier the longer they went on.

"That's it…One, two, three…And you said you couldn't dance."

"It's been awhile," Martha admitted as he twirled her.

"I couldn't tell," John replied with a sweet smile.

'His eyes…They're…Sweet…Stunningactually…Can I say that about a man?' Martha though as she looked up, staring almost intently into his eyes.

'Those eyes…Such a beautiful shade of blue,' He thought of her as the music stopped.

"You're a wonderful teacher."

"I would hope so. I'd hate to be out of a job. I assume you were on your way to get a drink, so let's get one."

"Alright," She nodded and they walked off together, talking about whatever came to mind, and Martha was surprised to find him so easy to converse with, not thinking she could have anything in common with a teacher.

"And what do you do when you're not trying to teach teenagers about wars?" She asked.

"Grade papers and try and keep up with my kids."

"Kids?"

John nodded. "I have two, a boy and a girl. They're always full of energy."

"I find myself chasing after children occasionally, but only when I'm defending them. I had a few interesting trials awhile back with a sixteen-year-old defendant."

"Can you tell me about it?"

"He had kind of a hard life and did some bad things is all. But I could tell he was actually a pretty decent kid."

John thought to say something back but was interrupted by another voice.

"Martha!" Darien called. "I've been looking for you. I have a friend who wants to speak with you."

"I'll be there in a moment," Martha said and he walked off. "I'm sorry," She said to John.

"It's okay, just promise me another dance before the night ends."

"Alright," She nodded with a slight blush before walking off to join Darien and the friend he mentioned, who turned out to be a barrister in training looking for a bit of advice.

"I know a couple of people who are better to talk to about this sort of thing," Martha said once she finished explaining her few issues. "Can you wait here a moment?"

The young lady nodded and Martha quickly sought out Nick and Niamh. After explaining the situation, they agreed to follow her and quickly got into a conversation with the young lady about life at the Barr. They explained the process of acquiring tenancy, how briefs were distributed and even a bit of the politics they had seen within chambers.

"But…What if they never give me any work because I'm new? I could be out for days and…" The woman, Lisa, said.

"It's normal to think that way. I still do, actually," Nick said. "But, as long as you're confident in yourself you'll be fine. I promise."

"My mum's a barrister…That's why I'm here. What if they expect too much of me because of it?"

"That's also normal," Niamh said. "My father's a judge so it's usually thought that I'm always going to do well and that I'll just rise higher and higher and that's bloody hard. You'll only prosper by carving your own path and leaving aside the fact that your mum is a barrister. If you compare yourself too much, you'll fail. Trust me."

As soon as she finished speaking, Stephen stepped over and set a hand on her shoulder.

"Yes, Papa?"

"Bob and Lynda want to see you and Nick. Lynda says she's been waiting to meet him."

"Alright. I apologize for this, Lisa."

"No, it's fine. I should find my mum. Thank you for the advice."

Nick and Niamh shrugged and followed Stephen. As they walked, Niamh tried to get close to Nick, but her father put an arm around her waist, keeping her next to him.

"Papa," She whined under her breath.

He ignored it and tightened his grip, making it clear that Niamh was his daughter.

Meanwhile, across the room, Martha joined John on the dance floor again, as promised after sharing dances with two other men who asked.

"I'm going to be honest," He said as they danced. "I'd love to spend more time with you."

"Well…I…I don't…" Martha stuttered. It had been awhile since anyone had asked her out and she was at a complete loss for words, wondering why someone like John would be asking her of all people.

"Can I take you out sometime?"

"My schedule's a little…"

"So is mine. Give me your number and I'll give you a ring soon, we can arrange something then."

"Alright," Martha nodded and once the dance ended, they stepped off to the side and quickly exchanged mobile numbers. She thought to ask him for another dance, but he left before she could at his sister's beckoning.

"Sorry, I'm her ride," He confessed.

"That's alright. I guess I'll see you soon."

"I hope so," He replied, boldly ending with a light kiss on her cheek.

Martha blushed as gently put her hand to the spot he kissed as he walked away.

"Who's that?" Darien asked, coming up behind her with a glass of champagne.

"No one," She said, quickly putting the paper with his number in her clutch. "Thank you."

Awhile later, the music came to a stop and everyone stopped to listen to Bob's final words before being dismissed for the night.

"I hope you'll come visit soon," Valerie said as she hugged Niamh.

"I'll try, but I won't promise anything."

"It's alright. Goodnight Niamh," Stephen said, moving a strand of hair out of her face.

"Goodnight Papa. Mum."

Valerie hugged her again and Stephen kissed her head before they left.

"They don't like saying 'goodbye,' do they?" Nick asked from behind.

Niamh shook her head. "Not since I left home. Where's Martha? Isn't she going home with us?"

"She said she had a ride," Nick said with a shrug. "I got your coat."

"Thank you," She said as he helped her into it. "Let's go hail a cab then. Would you like to stay at my flat tonight?"

"Sure," Nick said, offering his arm.

Niamh linked her arm and they headed out, just catching the sight of Martha walking towards the hotel's car park with a man. "Who is that?"

"I don't know. But, she was talking with him quite a bit tonight. Well, him and one other man."

"Maybe she's found somebody."

"Maybe," He shrugged, not really interested.

Niamh sighed and took the lead, easily hailing a cab for them. She quickly relayed her address to the driver and cuddled up to Nick's side, gently laying her head on his shoulder like always.

Nick smiled and carefully ran his fingers through her hair, making her sigh contently as she settled against him.

They talked a bit, mainly about mindless things until finally arriving at her block of flats. Once there, they split the cost of the ride and headed upstairs.

Niamh yawned at she slipped her coat off and put it in the coat closet, moving to allow Nick to do the same as she pulled her shoes off. As soon as she set her shoes down, she found herself being pulled into his arms right before his lips met hers in a deep, heavy kiss.

She returned it half-heartedly due to her tiredness and rewarded him with another and then another, stopping once she felt his hands on her back.

"Nick…" She muttered, setting her hands on his chest to shove him off. "Nick…No. Not tonight."

"But, Niamh…"

"No. I'm tired. I'm going to bed. Your pajamas are still here from last time," She said as she headed into her bedroom, leaving a slightly disappointed Nick behind. Once she was in her room, she set Nick's pajamas aside for him, pulled her own out of a drawer on her dresser and then went into the bathroom. She took her time changing, washing the makeup off her face, brushing her teeth and then finally applying her usual skin cream and moisturizer.

"Your turn," She said to Nick once she returned, finding that he had taken a place in front of her television as she offered him his own pajamas.

"Oh, okay. Cute," He said, eyeing her simple, blue sleep shirt. It stopped a few inches above her knees, had elbow-length sleeves and was adorned with a rhinestone heart in the middle of her chest.

Niamh simply shrugged him off and went back into her room once he took the clothes. She carefully hung her dress up, prepared the bed and climbed into it on the left side.

After taking only a few minutes to change and clean up, Nick turned off the television and decided to join Niamh in bed. He got in on the opposite side and spent a moment observing her, then, he leaned in and gave her a small, light kiss on the cheek. "Sweet dreams, Niamh."

She shifted a bit, but stayed in the same spot and pulled the duvet tighter.

He smiled and lay down opposite her, knowing that she liked her space when sleeping.

Meanwhile, after a slightly long cab ride, a bit of a walk and some mindless conversation, Darien backed Martha up against the wall in his flat. "Wait…What's your name again?" He gasped amidst a series of heated kisses, his mind blurred a bit, mainly by champagne.

"Martha," She snapped before being pulled into another kiss.

"Right…" He muttered. He then picked her up and practically threw her on the bed when they reached the bedroom.

She could only moan as he proceeded to rip her clothes off, until she stopped him by flipping him over and doing the same, both having the intent to ravish each other, even if it was for only one night.

Soon, deciding that he wanted to be in charge, Darien flipped Martha over and held her arms above her head. "I don't think so," He whispered.

Fueled by pure lust, it was hot, intense and soon over. Sated and spent, they both fell asleep almost immediately afterwards with Martha being the first to awaken at six the following morning.

'Where am I?' She thought, blinking to adjust to the darkness in the room. She sat up a bit and glanced behind her, gasping at the sight of the man next to her. She then lifted the duvet from her body and groaned. 'I've got to get out of here! I have no intent on having him get to know me. At all. Besides, it's not like we'll meet again,' She thought, quickly standing to retrieve her clothes. Though she fumbled a bit in the darkness, Martha eventually found everything, including her jewellery, quickly and hastily changed and ran out. Once outside she quickly checked her small handbag and groaned again. 'Shit. I guess I'm stuck taking the underground…' She quickly looked around, and, recognizing where she was, she headed off to the nearest station, grateful that her wallet always held her transport card.

A few hours later, at ten, Nick woke in Niamh's bed. He was a bit confused for a moment-until he noticed the violet duvet. He then glanced over and found Niamh curled up next to him.

"Niamh…" He whispered as he gently shook her.

"No…I'm sleepy…" Niamh muttered as she turned away from him, pulling the duvet up as she did so.

"Niamh, you can't spend all day sleeping. It's already ten."

"Yes I can," She muttered. "It's Sunday."

Nick sighed and carefully began lowering her duvet. He then eased her sleeve down her shoulder and kissed it, slowly moving up her shoulder, to her neck.

She sighed and he reached his hand around and began stroking her breasts through her shirt. Knowing she couldn't hold back, Niamh turned her head and they kissed, softly, lingeringly. But, as she turned her body their kisses became deeper and more impassioned.

"I want you…" He whispered.

"Then take me," She replied, ending with another kiss as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Nick smiled against her lips, gently rolled her over and climbed on top of her, quickly capturing her lips again in a series of kisses as she took her hands to his back.

She wasted no time in finding the hem of his shirt and quickly pulled it up and off him, her nails scraping his back as she did so, making him groan.

He then pulled her back for another deep kiss and let her take control of it as he ran a hand up her leg, finding and fiddling with the hem of her nightshirt for awhile before slowly pulling it up and off of her, grateful that she didn't wear a bra to sleep once she was exposed to him. Like always, he began his exploration of her body with her neck, but this time he took care, his kisses gentle and lingering. They had the whole day and had no need to rush through it, nor did they want to. As he moved down, one of his hands lazily ran up and down her side, his fingers drawing patterns on her skin, but, after a moment he stopped and switched sides, using the other hand to caress and fondle one of her breasts as he gently kissed the other, soon drawing her nipple into his mouth to suck on it, alternating between that and teasing it with his tongue, bringing forth a series of moans from her. She then softly gasped at the tiny, intimate kisses and love bites he placed over her flesh before moving to give the second breast the same treatment as the first. Once he finished with that, she grabbed him and pulled him back for a long, deep, heated kiss and releasing him with the same force, allowing him to continue what he started.

Nick eagerly obliged, placing soft kisses on every piece of bare skin he came across, again using his hands to trace patterns on her flesh as he moved down. He slipped his tongue into her navel, making her tremble and sigh with pleasure and then used his teeth to pull her minimal panties from her body. He then moved back up, kissing his way up her leg and then gently easing her thighs apart when he found her. Just her, already hot for him, already wet.

Niamh had to bite her knuckles to keep from crying out as he more than eagerly pleasured her, taking his time, his strokes long and languid.

He stopped just before her sent her over the edge as a tease. As much as he wanted to see her break for him, he had an urge to mess with her that disappeared when she forcefully flipped him over.

"My turn," She whispered huskily, a huge turn-on for him. She then quickly removed his trousers before starting her exploration of his body. She did as he did to her, using her hands to draw patterns as she kissed every piece of skin she came across, her tongue occasionally drawing patterns alongside her hands. Fueled by his moans, she lingered a bit as she moved further down, stopping before she went too far and coming up to kiss him while her hand moved down to stroke him.

"Oh, God…Niamh…" He groaned, part of him wishing that she would stop.

"Is this not enough for you?" She teased, ending with a series of small, teasing kisses as she reached over to the side and pulled open the drawer on her nightstand, easily finding what she was seeking. Then, not waiting for an answer she moved back down and, after teasing for a bit, took him into her mouth. Like he had with her, she took her time, her tongue encircling him the entire time. She looked up at him when she stopped and rose up a bit, using her teeth to rip open the condom package in her hand, knowing that he found it sexy. She wasted no time, pleasuring him in the act of protection and then came back up, straddled him and quickly, eagerly, came down on him.

"Don't even think about it," She whispered, forcing his rising hands back on the bed. She knew he wanted to flip her over, but wouldn't have it. She liked being in charge.

Easily giving up, Nick took his hands to her breasts when she released him.

Niamh threw her head back and moaned as he caressed her, using his fingers to tease her nipples, only adding to her pleasure.

Soon, struck with a sudden inspiration, Nick forced himself up and pulled her into a kiss, changing the position a bit as he did so.

Niamh gasped and held onto him for a bit of support, making the sensations a bit more intense.

Nick groaned, loving the feel of her chest as it rose and fell with every hard breath she took, and soon took his mouth to her breasts again, his tongue replacing his previously teasing hands, making her cry out in pleasure.

They moaned together as it went on, Niamh throwing her head back and crying out again once she was brought to climax, followed almost immediately by Nick. They then stopped for a moment, trying to catch their breath as they finally collapsed together.

"Nice wakeup call, huh?" Nick teased as he ran a hand up her side.

"Very nice wakeup call," Niamh agreed, placing her hand over his. "I want to go again."

"Wha…" Before he had a chance to finish her lips were on his in a soft, deep kiss.

She set her hands on his chest as he pulled her closer, and they exchanged the same thought-that it was going to be a very long morning.