Speechless
That called turned her life upside-down. Warrick was dead. He was murdered. The team was working the scene. She took the first flight out. Feeling happy seeing Gil's face after all those months, yet sad under the circumstances. That was not how she pictured the "reunion" of her family—
"Penny for your thoughts?" Her husband's voice brought her back to reality.
"Just thinking."
"I could see that." Gil caressed her arm. "Care to share what it is that has you so distracted?"
Sara blew out a breath. "The day Warrick died." She hated the fact that her husband was so caring because she knew this would upset him. Warrick was like a son to him. Now, Sara could see the distress she was causing her husband. She took his hand. "I'm so sorry for bringing this up. I was looking at my charms and the one he gave me stood out—"
"It's ok, honey. Don't be sorry. It's not that we can't ever say his name. I was away when he gave you this." Gil touched the silver charm. "Tell me the full story?"
"Sure." Sara kissed Gil. "It's still so vivid in my mind. I can picture the day, feel his presence..."
"I miss you." Sara managed while pressing the phone against her ear and juggling Aaron. He was becoming more difficult to manage. Granted he was a small baby, he was a little over one year old. Squeals could be heard in the background. Sara could picture the look on Gil's face at the sound of his almost six year old daughter.
"I miss you too, honey. I'll be home in a few days. How are the kids? I can hear Hal, but what about Aaron?"
Sara blew out a breath. "Fine, just fine."
"Sara—"
"I'm sorry. I'm just a little tired. Hal's is happily playing with her doll and Aaron's in my arms sleeping."
"That's wonderful to hear." Gil paused. "Sara, you're the strongest person I know. I'm sorry I had to leave for this, but I'll be there to help soon."
"Please, Gil. You've dreamed about this conference for weeks. Enjoy your time away. I've just been cranky. You know me, I'm just complaining. I've gone on a lot less sleep."
"Right you are my dear. I don't want to, but I gotta cut this short. I love you guys."
"I gotta go, too. The doorbell just rang. I love you."
After the phone was put down Sara brought Aaron to the playroom. She lowered him into his bassinet and patted Halley on the head. "Mommy has to get the door so watch your brother, ok?"
"Yes, mommy!"
Sara smiled. "Warrick! What are you doing here? I thought you'd be sleeping!"
"I finished my cases so I was sent home early."
"Good for you! Those were the best nights."
"Yup."
"Oh, I'm sorry. Apparently I'm lacking manners. Come in?"
"Sure," Warrick chuckled. "Where are the kiddies?"
Sara motioned them to sit down. She took place on the couch and he on the lazy boy. "In the playroom. Halley's playing doll house and Aaron's sleeping."
"I thought Halley was in kindergarten?"
"Afternoons."
Warrick formed an "O" with his lips.
"This family does not do well with mornings."
Warrick laughed and Sara rubbed her forehead. "They've got you worn out, huh? When's Griss coming back?"
"Friday. Hopefully. I need just a little breather. I mean I love my kids to death, but sleeping and showering does not count as mommy time."
"No girl, I get you. It's tough raising two kids solo even if it's for a week."
"You said it!" Sara dug deeper into the couch. "Want anything to drink? Since it's only eleven I can brew some coffee."
"Nah. Thanks though. I just came to say hi and drop off a little something."
With raised brows Sara sat up and leaned towards Warrick. "What is this little something? We've told you before, we're grateful for all you and the guys have done for the kids, but—"
"No, this one is for mommy."
Sara's eyes widened and she folded her hands in her lap. Just then, Warrick pulled out the signature felt bag. After pulling apart the closed top, he removed a tiny white box. From afar Sara could see the Pandora logo etched on the box's top. Warrick stood up and with outstretched arms handed Sara the box. She graciously accepted with a nod of the head and a "You really shouldn't have, Warrick—"
"Open it," he said.
Long, delicate fingers opened the white box. A gasp escaped her lips. She put a hand to her mouth. What her family did for her never ceased to amaze her. With two fingers she picked up a silver charm of a mother kangaroo holding her Joey. It was the sweetest thing Sara ever laid eyes on. While still staring at the token, she unclasped her bracelet and carefully yet swiftly twisted the charm to join the others. It fit right in. Just perfect.
"I don't know what to say. Warrick, this is...wonderful. It's so beautiful. I absolutely love it!" In one stride, Sara had her arms wrapped around Warrick. He smiled at her reaction and accepted the hug.
"It was nothing. I figured it was about time I added to your bracelet. Practically everyone gave you a charm except me!"
"Thanks again, Warrick. It's really something. It's the perfect charm for a mom!"
Warrick patted her knee. "A little token from your old pal. You've truly amazed me. Marrying Griss than having two children. It's been amazing watching you interact with Halley and Aaron. You're an excellent mother. I hope you know that."
Her mouth was agape. Words could not describe how she was feeling. She could barely whisper her thanks when Warrick embraced her.
"Wow, I wish I could've seen that." Gil took Sara in his arms.
"I was speechless. It was so unexpected...I...found it impossible to show my thanks."
"He knew how touched you were. I'm glad he got to see us have our family. He was head over heels for us. Especially you when you found out you were pregnant."
"I know," Sara said. She took a deep breath in. Her exhale was a tad bit uneasy. With her hand up to shield her face, she let out the tears.
Panic surged through Gil. Instinctively he squeezed her. His arms wrapped tightly around her shaking frame. "It's ok," he encouraged. "Let it out."
Once Sara calmed she spoke, "When he complemented me on my parenting I thought of when we first started working together. From my first impression of him, gambling, I was hesitant. Then we worked this case and he proved his work ethic changed and I remember him asking me if I'd reconsider and I said something like I never said you weren't a good CSI." She paused. "I don't think I ever told him what a good friend he was."
"He knew."
Wow, it's been ages since writing for this series. I hope you enjoyed it! I think I'll stick to adding to this unless I get distracted into writing something else
