What can I say…my muse decided to take an unexpected vacation. I do believe she is back…at least I hope she is. I struggled with this one…a lot. Thanks for the patience and a special thanks to those of you who have been supportive and encouraging…I definitely needed it this go around. I hope you all enjoy.

Chapter 32- Tonight

Crossing her arms, Jane stood back and frowned down at the black garment bag that lay across her bed. She should have known something was up the minute Frankie knocked on her door, shoved the garment bag at her, and hightailed it back to his room without saying a word.

She already knew what was inside the bag, the logo and name of Rocky's store was emblazoned across the front with the same type of flourish that made his personality stand out. The idea of wearing the tux intrigued her but it also left her feeling uncertain as she faced yet another surprise, so instead she just stood back and stared.

"What are you doing sweetheart?" Angela leaned against the open door frame and watched Jane. She had noticed right away the stiff set of Jane's shoulders.

"Just wonderin'…" Jane sighed as she uncrossed her arms, looking over her shoulder at her mother.

"Wonderin' about what?" Angela stepped further into the room. Her curiosity had gotten the better of her as she wondered what lay beneath the confines of the garment bag that Frankie had brought home. She had seen the tuxedo he was going to wear, but she had yet to see what Jane was going to wear.

"About what little scheme Frankie and Maura have come up with to piss me off…" Jane's brow furrowed into a frown again at the thought of being angry with Maura. She didn't want to be angry, not really, but this whole secret thing was starting to get on her nerves.

"Why do you assume you're going to be angry?" Angela gave Jane a sideways glance, not sure if she wanted to see the expression on Jane's face. She was relieved to see the frown soften into a pensive smile as she watched Jane's ire abate.

"Don'know…call it a hunch." The small smile that creased her lips couldn't be contained as she thought about the look in Maura's eyes when she had tried on the tuxedo. As she stood there thinking about Maura, a different thought muscled its way to the forefront of her mind. "It's prom night…isn't it." She turned to Angela for confirmation. When she didn't get an answer in return, she started to get angry again. "Damn…I told Frankie I wasn't going…" Her temper was on the verge of a full blown melt down.

"Hey…before you go and have a full blown tantrum, I think you should know something." Angela crossed her arms and glared at Jane, giving her the best 'I'm the Mom' look she could.

With her anger barely contained, Jane huffed and tried to emulate her mother by crossing her arms and giving the best glare she could. "What?" She all but growled through clenched teeth.

"Frankie doesn't expect you to go to the prom…at least not the one at school." Angela sighed before uncrossing her arms in an attempt to try another tactic.

"What's that suppose'ta mean?" Jane arched an eyebrow in question as she too relaxed her posture.

"W-e-l-l…" Angela drew out the word as a stalling tactic. "Your brother has made arrangements for you and Maura to spend the evening with friends tonight. He has come up with his own version of prom for you…"

"I can't let him miss his prom…he'll regret it in the long run." Jane tried to reason.

"The only thing that could cause him to regret missing it would be if you made him regret it." Angela held up her hand to stop Jane from interrupting before trying to explain. "What I am trying to tell you Janie is that your brother loves you…he didn't want to celebrate this night without you, so he made sure he didn't have to. Just accept it for what it is…a gift."

Jane's frown transformed into a sheepish grin as she felt the first strains of anticipation warm her heart. In that moment, she realized that she had indeed wanted to feel the excitement that going to prom elicited in most teenagers.

"Um, yeah…okay." Jane ran her fingers through her hair, only stopping when she found her hand tangled in the unruly curls. "Let me guess…Maura knew about it, didn't she?"

"I think she may have had a little something to do with the planning. I suppose she also had something to do with what's in that garment bag…" Angela couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. "What's in the garment bag Jane?"

"Hummm…that would my tuxedo Ma." Jane's cheeks colored slightly as she recalled the things that Maura had said to her when she tried it on.

"Wow…" Angela reached down to run her fingers along the zipper. "May I?" She asked without looking at Jane.

"Yeah…yeah…go ahead…" Jane answered. She was surprised her mother was accepting the idea of her wearing a tux so readily.

Angela let out a long, slow whistle as she pulled the zipper down to reveal the black jacket framing the stark white shirt underneath. Peering over Angela's shoulder, Jane's eyes grew wide at the sight before her. The black bow tie she had tried on was now replaced with one that was green. She rested her chin on her mother's shoulder as she studied the soft green that reminded her of the green that swam around within the depths of Maura's hazel eyes. As Angela pulled the jacket open, a vest the same color as the bow tie was revealed.

"It's beautiful…and I am sure you look incredible in it." Angela reached up to give Jane's cheek a gentle pat. "I like the green…it looks like clover."

"It reminds me of the green in Maura's eyes." Jane let out a breath when she felt her mother's warm hand on her cheek.

"You've got it bad my dear…" Angela's body shock slightly as she gently laughed at her daughter's predicament.

"Does it upset you cuz I'm not wearing a dress?" Jane rested her chin on Angela's shoulder in an effort to seek out some reassurance.

"Um…no." Angela turned slightly to smile at Jane, a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

"Okay…what aren't you telling me?" Pulling back so she could see her mother better, Jane wasn't sure she was ready to hear what her mother had to say.

"Maura promised me that I could go shopping to help pick out your dress for the ballet." Angela couldn't stop herself from smiling.

The smile was infectious and Jane couldn't bring herself to be angry. She put her chin back on Angela's shoulder before wrapping her arms around her mother's waist and giving her a gentle hug. "I guess I don't have much say in this, do I?" She let out a huff.

"What can I say? You're whipped…" Angela placed her hands on top of Jane's resting on her stomach.

"Hey…you're suppose'ta be on my side Ma." Jane laughed.

"Sorry…but being allowed to partake in dress shopping kinda causes me to turn a blind eye." Angela closed her eyes and allowed herself to absorb the warmth of Jane's hug. It wasn't every day that Jane opened herself to being affectionate, so Angela was going to enjoy every minute.

"Yeah, I see how it's gonna be." Jane continued to laugh before letting her mother go. "I guess I should shower and get ready…"

"I suppose it is about that time." Angela sighed as she ran her fingers along the satiny material of the vest. She had an overwhelming feeling of loss in that moment as she realized that so much had changed over the year. It wasn't Jane's relationship with Maura that had her feeling sad, but the fact that Jane was growing up and would eventually be leaving for school. 'Well, I've still got Frankie and Tommy…' She sighed to herself as she watched Jane gathering her things before leaving Angela alone with her thoughts.

"You look beautiful." Jane's husky voice whispered in Maura's ear as they posed for pictures. "I can't wait to get you alone."

The whispered words tickled Maua's ear as she shifted just enough out of Jane's grasp that she could no longer feel Jane's body heat melting into her own. She was doing her best to keep a smile on her face as Jane continued to move against her in the most delicious way causing her heart to race and her palms to sweat. As a last effort, she looked up at Jane with pleading eyes wordless asking her to have mercy on her.

"Let's get one with all four of you." Angela directed the four teenagers to stand side by side so she could take a picture. She couldn't wipe the smile from her face as she watched Jane and Frankie standing next to each other, arms around their girlfriends, and beaming happiness.

"Alright Ma…we gotta go…Carly's waiting on us." Frankie started ushering them towards the door and the black limo that awaited them outside.

"Wow…nice." Jane said from the porch as she noticed the limo.

"It is one of my mother's contributions for the evening." Maura held onto Jane's hand, her grip tight as she did her best not to swoon at Jane's appearance. She had seen her in the tux before, but something about the cut of it, the way it accentuated Jane's curves, the way it showed off the swell of her breasts had Maura flustered. Rocky had outdone himself and Maura decided she needed to send him a gift basket or something, anything to thank him.

"What is your contribution for the evening Maura?" Jane used that husky voice again as she attempted to fluster Maura yet again. She couldn't help herself, Maura was just way too cute when she was flustered.

"You'll just have to wait and see…" Maura glanced up at Jane before giving her a gentle backhanded slap to her middle.

"You look incredible in that dress." Jane quickly changed the subject as they moved toward the limo. "The green really brings out the color in your eyes…"

Maura glanced down at the gown she was wearing and gave a slight shrug of her bare shoulders. "This old thing?" She feigned disinterest. "I picked it up at a second hand store." It was true that she had picked it up at a second hand store, but what she hadn't told Jane was that it was a vintage dress from the 30's and it had cost her a pretty penny. She reasoned that if Jane could look like Marlene Dietrich, then she could look and feel like Greta Garbo.

"Second-hand huh?" Jane smiled as she slipped into the limo behind Maura.

They sat on one side as they made room for Frankie and Cindy to follow before the door was closed on a waving Angela and Frank.

"Whew…I never thought we'd get out of there." Frankie leaned back in the seat as he nervously ran his fingers through his hair.

"Don't look so nervous Frankie." Jane gave him a smug smile. "You got me this far." She held out her arms to indicated that she was there taking up space in the limo. "No turning back now."

"Yeah…um…thanks for being a good sport about this Jane. I know how you feel about surprises." He leaned closer to Cindy as he sought out her comfort.

"Yeah, well…I'm learning to like surprises…" She gave Maura a gentle shoulder bump.

"That dress is beautiful Cindy…it looks great on you." Maura attempted to change the subject as she felt her cheeks flush as she thought of the last time she had surprised Jane.

"Oh, thank you…yours is beautiful too. That color really brings out the green in your eyes." Cindy sank back into Frankie's warmth as her eyes traveled from Maura to Jane. She hesitated as she looked at Jane, not sure if she should say what she was thinking. When Jane gave her a small smile, she decided she would. "You know, Frankie looks really good in his tux, but…wow Jane…you are stunning."

Jane's cheeks colored at the unexpected compliment causing her to give a crooked grin in response. Watching Frankie tilt his head slightly to give Cindy a surprised look, Jane couldn't help but laugh out loud.

"Sorry sweetheart, but even a straight girl like me can appreciate all of…that." Cindy moved her hand in a sweeping motion to indicate Jane.

The comment caused Jane to laugh harder and Frankie to give Maura a pleading look as if to ask her to rein in Jane's magnetism. It was when she felt Maura gently intertwine their fingers and give her hand a light squeeze that she leaned back into the comfort of Maura's body, but she couldn't wipe the grin from her face.

"If you will all follow me…" Giorgio, the owner of the small Italian restaurant led the group towards a staircase in the back. As he led them through the dining room, their appearance drew a few glances and even some outright stares.

Letting go of Maura's hand as they made their way through the restaurant, Jane felt an uncomfortable twisting in her stomach brought on by the curious eyes of strangers. She reached up to pull the collar away from her throat as she tried to swallow. Her mouth was suddenly very dry and she realized that this was the reason why she hadn't wanted to go to prom in the first place. She knew she shouldn't let it bother her, but for some reason she really did care about what people thought. Since her and Maura had been spending most of their time around family and friends, she never had to worry about what complete strangers thought. The uncomfortable feeling that started in the pit of her stomach caused a wave a nausea to wash over as the thought of having dinner surrounded by curious looks and stares started to get the better of her. She was quickly regretting her decision to give into Frankie and her mother.

Maura felt a sudden loss when Jane let go of her hand, but she did not miss the look of sheer panic that flashed in Jane's eyes. Jane was doing her best to maintain her cool under the pressure of a room full of strangers and Maura realized that Jane thought they were going to eat in the dining room.

"It's okay…we aren't staying in the dining room Jane…" Maura spoked softly so only Jane could hear.

The feeling of panic that had griped her abated when she heard Maura's words and found herself standing in front of a staircase. She let out a soft sigh in relief as she followed Maura up the stairs towards a garden terrace on the roof.

It was a beautiful sight to behold as they stepped out onto the roof top causing the breath to catch in Jane's chest. The sky was a dusky grey with wisps of pink and red as the late afternoon sun dipped down past the horizon casting the city in a soft shadow. Small, white lights dotted the canopy overhead giving the illusion of stars or fireflies and there were candles everywhere casting their soft glow all around. A long table set for ten was sitting off to the side. It had a rustic appeal to it and Jane couldn't help but think that it looked like something she would see in Italy. It was Maura's gentle squeeze that brought her attention away from the sight before her. She looked down at the smile she had come to love and noticed that Maura was biting her bottom lip in that nervous way that made Jane weak at the knees.

"Do you like it?" Maura worried her bottom lip between her teeth as she shyly looked up at Jane.

With an enthusiastic nod, Jane wrapped an arm around Maura's shoulders. She looked over at Frankie when he stepped up beside her, a grin spreading across his face as he watched Jane's reaction.

"Cindy, Ma, and I decorated…with the help of Cindy's brother Luc." He put his hand on Jane's shoulder and gave a little squeeze.

"Wow…it's amazing." Jane sighed as she looked around trying to take everything in. She noticed a small decked in area that she suspected was about the size of a dance floor. Her suspicions were confirmed when she saw a turn table set up to the side. She could already hear the soft, melodic strains of some kind of classical music playing in the background. "Thank you Frankie." She let go of Maura to pull Frankie into a hug.

Jane's sudden movement caught Frankie by surprise but it didn't take him long to accept the hug for what it was, pure gratitude.

"Well, you know…I just wanted you and Maura to have a special night…I mean…something we could all share in." He said as he awkwardly patted her on the back before letting go. When they pulled back to look at each other, he thought he saw tears in her eyes before they were interrupted by Giovanni.

"Hey…it this a private party or can anyone join?" Giovanni's loud, jovial voice carried over to where they were standing.

"Hey Gio…" Jane mumbled as she stepped away from Frankie in an effort to bring her emotions under control. She was also still slightly put off by what had happened between them earlier in the week.

Noticing the reserved way that Jane had greeted him, Giovanni felt the need to clear the air once and for all. Jane was one of his best friends and he hated to have her mad or 'irritated' as was the case.

"Hey…can I talk to ya?" Giovanni slipped from Marti's hold to take Jane by the elbow and lead her away from the small gathered group.

"Yeah…" Jane gave Maura a solemn look as she allowed Giovanni to lead her away.

Once they were a safe distance away from everyone, Giovanni put a hand on each one of Jane's shoulders so she was forced to face him.

"Okay…let's get one thing straight before I start…you look amazing in this tux." He tried to smile at her as he attempted to break the ice.

"Thanks." Jane mumbled, not sure she liked where the conversation was heading.

"I also just want to tell you that I am sorry for the way I acted the other day. It was brought to my attention that I may have crossed the line with the subject of our conversation." He sighed as he gave her a heartfelt smile.

"Ya think…" She tilted her head as she gave him a stern look. It was all she could do not to cross her arms.

"I guess I just forget sometimes. You're like…one of my best friends." He gave her a sheepish smile.

With a loud exhale, Jane felt all of the tension and anger leave her body as she looked into his sincere hazel eyes. His soft expression took her by surprise causing her to smile back. "I feel the same Gio, but you've really gotta learn to censor yourself sometimes. I do appreciate that you treat me like one of the guys, but when it comes down to it…I'm not."

He shrugged his shoulders before giving her cheek a quick pat with his right hand. "I get it…but having you to talk to keeps me from running my mouth off to everyone else. I guess I know you won't go talking behind my back…or Marti's."

"I've always got your back Gio and I suppose if you tone down the details…" She raised her eyebrow in question as she watched him earnestly shake his head. "You can always talk to me, now if you'll excuse me…I need to get back to Maura."

"Yeah…has anyone ever told you how hot you guys look together?" He wiggled his eyebrows. "If you're ever interested in adding a third person…"

"Gio…" Jane growled causing him to pull back and give her a guilty look.

"Too soon?" He tried to smile.

"We'll work on it, but I'll let Marti know if we're interested…" She returned the favor by giving him a not so gentle pat. With an evil grin and wink, she left him with a stunned look on his face.

"Hey, where was that attitude last week?" He shouted to her retreating back, but only got a shrug of her shoulders as a response.

Maura watched Jane and Giovanni move away from the crowd to have a more private conversation. She tried to give Marti a friendly smile and felt herself bristle slightly when Marti moved to stand next to her.

"Um…look, I'm sorry about what Gio was saying to Jane. I didn't realize you two were…um…" Marti shifted her weight from one foot to the other.

"Yes…we're together." Maura wasn't sure why but she was suddenly annoyed that she had to make small talk in Jane's absence.

"I told him he needed to apologize to Jane…and I'd like to extend the same to you." Marti seemed uncomfortable as she continued to fidget.

"Thank you…I am sure Jane will appreciate the apology from Giovanni…she considers him a good friend." Maura let out a silent sigh of relief when she saw Jane making her way back over.

"Well…um…thanks for including us tonight." Marti mumbled as she watched Jane stroll their direction. Her eyes widened at the sight of the controlled confidence that poured from Jane with each step she took. A rush of attraction washed over her, its force catching her by surprise. Shaking her head as if to dispel the feeling, she gave Maura another apologetic smile before heading over to Giovanni.

"You know, the green in this dress really brings out the green in your eyes…or maybe it's something else." Jane teased lightly as she bent down to give Maura a quick kiss on the cheek.

"She was checking you out…" Maura huffed as her eyes continued to follow Marti.

"Well…it can't be helped, I am pretty dashing." Jane chuckled at the annoyed look on Maura's face.

With a sudden burst of movement, Maura reached up to place a hand on either side of Jane's face pulling her down for a deep, soul possessing kiss. "You're mine…and don't forget it." She whispered into Jane's ear when she pulled away from the soft lips she craved to feel against her skin.

The force of the kiss took Jane by surprise causing her to feel light headed. But if the kiss made her light headed, Maura's whispered words made her knees go weak. She pulled back to look at Maura and what she saw took her breath away. In Maura's eyes, Jane saw everything she would ever need looking back at her.

As they stood silently conveying their love for each other the sound of someone clearing their throat interrupted them. Blinking a few times, Jane wasn't sure what had drawn her attention away from Maura's gaze but when she felt someone come to stand behind her, she looked over her shoulder to see a slightly flustered looking Carly.

"Time to eat…dinner." Carly gave Jane a sheepish grin and Maura an apologetic wink.

"You made dinner?" Jane maneuvered so she could turn to look at Carly without losing contact with Maura.

"Yeah…ravioli…" Carly started to say but was stopped when Jane interjected.

"Three cheese…?" Jane's voice was hopeful and filled with excitement. Her smile grew when Carly nodded in response.

"Of course…" Carly gave Jane a pat on the back. "I am giving you guys the ten minute warning…once I drop the pasta…it won't be long at all."

"Hey…" Frankie came over to give Carly a hug. "Thanks for doing this." He pulled Cindy over to stand next to him. "Um…Cindy's brother is running a little late. He should be here in time for dessert."

"Thanks for letting me know kiddo…" Carly gave him a pat on the back. "I guess I'd better get back to the kitchen." As she turned to leave, her eyes swept over the romantic setting before her. She let out a sigh and give a small but sad smile as she left.

Carly's sad smile was so subtle that the only person who noticed was Maura. She watched Carly make her way across the terrace and couldn't help but wonder what had Made Carly sad. As her eyes followed the retreating figure, she realized she might have an idea of what was bothering Carly.

"Hey…I'm going to go to the bathroom, I'll be right back." Maura touched Jane on the arm as she pushed past her not waiting for a response from Jane.

"Um…okay." Jane turned to watch Maura leave. She was surprised by Maura's abrupt departure but as she watched her leave her eyes fell upon Barry Frost. "Hey, isn't that Barry Frost?"

"Yeah…hope you don't mind." Frankie gave her an uncertain smile.

"Nah…I like him okay. Doesn't he have prom tonight too?" Jane asked.

"Not until next week." Frankie assured her.

"Guess we'd better have a seat." Jane threw her arms over both Frankie and Cindy's shoulders to lead them to the table.

Taking her last bite, Jane leaned back and set her fork down next to her plate. "Wow…that was so good." She grinned.

"Hey…how 'bout I let you guys digest before I serve dessert?" Carly came up behind Jane. She put her hand on Jane's shoulder and gave it gentle squeeze. "Maybe give you some time to socialize with your friends…"

"Thanks…" Jane put her hand on Carly's. "This has been so nice…I really appreciate it."

"Glad I could be a part of it Cuz." Carly smiled down at Jane and then winked at Maura before disappearing again.

"Hey, how 'bout we get some real music playing so we can use the dance floor…" Gio pushed himself away from the table and looked around for everyone's approval.

"Sounds good…I've got a stack of CD's and some records over by the sound system." He looked over and got a nod of approval from Jane at his mention of records. "Should we start with slow or with something that has a little rhythm?"

"Surprise us…" Jane said as she felt her stomach tighten with uncertainty. It was one thing to hold Maura's hand and kiss her on the cheek in front of everyone, but to have their bodies pressed together in a slow dance had her nerves running overtime.

Sensing the apprehension in Jane's posture, Maura leaned over to whisper in Jane's ear. "What's wrong?"

"Um…nothing." Jane wasn't sure she could articulate what it was she was thinking.

"It's not nothing…" Maura leaned into Jane to offer her comfort. "But I'll wait until you're ready to talk about it." She reached under the table to take Jane's hand. Lacing their fingers together, she gave a reassuring squeeze.

All Jane could do was give Maura a sheepish grin in response. It still amazed her that Maura always knew the right thing to say to set her mind at ease. To her relief, Frankie picked a fast song to get everyone moving, but she couldn't help but grumble when Maura pulled her from her seat and dragged her towards the dance floor.

"Come on…I've never had the pleasure of dancing with you." Maura grinned at Jane who had a half-hearted scowl on her face. "Dancing for you I've done…"

"Maura…" Jane warned as her checks grew warm with the blush she couldn't fight as images of that night played through her mind.

"You're cute when you blush." Maura gave a gentle pinch to Jane's side causing her to jump in surprise.

"My, you are frisky tonight." Jane's scowl was quickly replaced by a genuine smile.

"You have no idea." Maura moved to the rhythm of the music as Barry and his date, Gio and Marti, and Frankie and Cindy fell into place around them.

"This is nice…getting to dance with you, without worrying about what other people think." Jane mused as she looked around.

"Um, Jane…what is your brother doing?" Maura's eyes widened at something just over Jane's shoulder.

Looking over her shoulder, Jane couldn't help but laugh as she watched Frankie doing his best impression of 'the running man' with Barry trying to show him up. Jane all but lost it when Giovanni joined, but she knew what she had to do when Frankie looked over at her and smirked, she had to show them all how it was done.

Maura stepped back and watched with a huge smile on her face. Seeing Jane relax and have fun made her feel light and happy. Jane was always on guard, especially when there were other people around. When the tempo of the music slowed down, she saw the look of panic cross Jane's face as the boys scattered to dance with their dates. It wasn't until their eyes met that Maura realized how terrified Jane truly was.

"What's wrong Jane?" Maura moved to stand in front Jane's frozen form.

"Um…I've never slow danced with another girl before." Her face was flushed from a combination of embarrassment and the exertion from dancing earlier.

"Hummm…." Maura wrapped her arms around Jane's waist. "There are a few thing you never did with a girl before but that never stopped you…" She looked up to find that Jane was trying her best not to smirk at her comment.

"Yeah, well I didn't have an audience before…" Jane put her hands on Maura's hips as casually as she could. She was afraid to look at anyone else but Maura so she kept her head bent so she could find safety and comfort in the hazel/green of Maura's eyes.

"For what it's worth…you don't have one now." Maura moved closer until their bodies were almost touching. "It doesn't bother anyone here Jane…we are in a safe place." She let out a sigh as she leaned her head against Jane's chest.

Finally allowing herself to relax, Jane rested her chin on top of Maura's head. It wasn't until they were both quiet that the soft, sultry strains of Chris Isaak's "Wicked Game's" floated to her. "I really like this song, but it's kinda sad…" She mused as she slowly rocked Maura in her arms gaining confidence as each second passed.

"I can't say that I know this one…" Muara pulled back so she could look up at Jane again, but a huge smile crossed her lips when she caught sight of something of interest over Jane's shoulder.

"Hey…what's that smile for?" Jane tried to twist around to see what Maura was looking at.

"Wait…" Maura gently guided them around until Jane was facing what had caught her interest. "Do you see that?"

"I thought Ryan had to stay home and study…" Jane countered.

"Yeah, well…I may have called her…" Maura had a sheepish grin on her face as she moved them around again so they could both watch. "I just couldn't help but notice that Carly seemed kind of sad tonight."

"Yeah…I suppose so." Jane thought for a moment before something hit her. "You know…I don't think Carly got to go to her prom either. I think she was already in Paris…"

"Maybe that is why she looked so sad. I also think she was missing Ryan…" Maura reasoned. "I just thought it would be nice for them to be together." She shrugged her shoulders.

"You are very sweet to think that…and from what I can tell, it is a much appreciated gesture." Jane sighed as she wrapped her arms tighter around Maura's waist. With a small smile, she watched as Ryan approached an unsuspecting Carly from behind, before wrapping her in a hug.

When Ryan had returned from her study group, she had had every intention of staying home and curling up on the couch with her text book and notes, but when Maura called, everything changed. There had been no urgency to the plea, but Ryan could tell that Maura had seen something in Carly that only she could make better. So with a renewed vigor for how the evening was going to go, Ryan headed to the restaurant to surprise Carly. As Giorgio led her up the staircase towards the garden terrace on the roof, she hadn't expected to see such a beautiful sight. Even though Giorgio chatted away about what a wonderful cook Carly was, Ryan wasn't really listening. All she could think about was how much work Carly, Angela, and Frankie had put into the night and she suddenly felt guilty for not showing more interest in what they had done.

As Ryan stepped out onto the terrace, it took a few seconds for her eyes to adjust to the dim light. The sun had long ago set over the cityscape, leaving them in grey shadows. The lights that hung overhead illuminated the night sky with a soft, white that painted a picture of romance. Orange flames from the candles that dotted the tables and railings was a mixture of light and dark that blended with the shadows as well as the soft light that played across the small group of teenagers engaged in a slow dance. It wasn't until she saw the familiar figure of the other half of her heart leaning casually against the wall by the service door that she recognized the song playing in the background. As quietly as she could manage, she moved through the shadows until she was standing behind Carly. Ryan knew the instant Carly realized she was there by the relaxed posture that appeared at her presence.

"It's been awhile since I heard this song…" Carly's voice was hoarse, causing her to clear her throat.

"Yeah…? I suppose it has…" Ryan wrapped her arms around Carly's waist and rested her cheek in the space between broad shoulders.

"I almost lost you…" Carly's voice trailed off into a whisper.

"But you didn't." Ryan pulled Carly closer to her.

"How could I have been so stupid…to fight this…" Carly turned around in the circle of Ryan's arms and rested her cheek against light blonde hair.

"Honey…what brought this on?" Ryan snuggled within the confines of Carly's embrace.

"Oh…I don't know." Carly let out a long, heavy sigh. "I guess seeing them…" She tilted her head in the direction of where everyone was dancing. "They are so young and have their whole lives ahead of them. I guess I was just feeling nostalgic…but then it turned into brooding." The admission had her heaving another sigh.

"I guess the song didn't help…" Ryan offered.

"I must have listened to it a hundred times a day when we first started dancing around the idea of being together…" Carly rolled her eyes at the memory. It seemed like the right song at the time when she was struggling with her feelings or trying to flat out deny them.

"Well…speaking of dancing, may I have this one?" Ryan pulled back to look up at eye's the color of the sky. When Carly reached over to run a finger down her cheek, Ryan couldn't help but lean into the tender touch. She shivered slightly as Carly's fingers traced down her jaw line before resting a palm against her cheek.

"It'd be my pleasure." Carly leaned down to place a soft kiss on Ryan's lips. "And thanks for being here."

Ryan looked up and smiled, her green eyes alight with the love she felt as they began to move slowly within each other's arms. "I love you…" Her voice was thick with emotion as they continued to dance in the shadows long after the song was over.

"I think Carly and Ryan are what you would call soulmates." Jane mused aloud as she continued to move slowly, holding Maura in her arms.

"Soulmates?" Maura lifted her head from where it had been resting against Jane's chest. They had both been quietly watching the interaction between Carly and Ryan, so when she heard Jane's voice it drew her from contemplative thoughts.

"Yeah…soulmates. You know…like no matter what lifetime they are living…they will always find their way back to each other." Jane pulled away from their embrace just enough so she could look down at Maura. When she saw that Maura had a pensive look on her face, Jane cleared her throat and continued. "You don't believe in soulmates?"

"I never gave it much thought Jane." Maura shook her head slightly. "The idea that soulmates exist is a foreign concept to me. From what you have said, I would have to believe in reincarnation as well. There is no scientific evidence for such a thing."

"Sometimes the proof is what you feel in here." Jane took Maura's hand in her right and placed it over her heart. "This…" She pressed her left hand over Maura's heart. She could feel the strong, steady beat against her palm and knew that her own heart beat would match the same rhythm. "…is all the proof I need."

"Do you…um…think that we're soulmates?" Maura bent her head to avoid eye contact, suddenly feeling shy.

Reaching down, Jane used her finger and thumb to lift Maura's chin back up so they looked into each other's eyes. Even though the music was still playing softly in the background, she stopped their movement. She gazed into questioning eyes and her heart ached at the uncertainty she could feel radiating off of Maura.

"Is this because you don't believe or because you're afraid I'll say no?" Jane raised an inquisitive eyebrow before running her thumb over Maura's bottom lip. "Because I absolutely believe and to answer your question…yes."

Even though Maura let out a sigh of relief, it was tainted with a hint of sadness. She closed her eyes as Jane's thumb continued to lightly brush against her bottom lip and she tried to take comfort in the soft contact.

"I want to believe…I really do…but…" Maura's voice was shaky as she struggled to speak.

"But…I guess I will have to spend the rest of this lifetime trying to prove it to you." Jane said.

"That could be fun…" Maura tried to joke.

"You have no idea how much fun…" Jane wrapped her arms around Maura and pulled her close in a tight hug.

Maura shivered against the words and their implications as she buried her face in the long, dark hair that hung around Jane's shoulders. She took a deep breath, inhaling the faint fragrance of lavender and vanilla. It was the scent she had come to associate with Jane and it caused her to shiver again.

"Hey…you cold?" Jane tightened her hold when she felt Maura's body tremble against her own. When Maura didn't answer, Jane released her from their hug. Without a word, she slipped her jacket off and placed it over Maura's bare shoulders before pulling her back into a hug. "Better?" She asked as she placed a kiss on Maura's forehead.

"Ummhummm…" Maura nodded as she felt Jane's warmth seep into her body. As the song they were dancing to finally ended, Maura realized how very much she wanted to believe Jane.

"Well, since I made one of Jane's favorites for dinner…" Carly said as she set a tray filled with small remlikins on the table. "I decided to make one of Maura's favorite desserts." She placed one of the small dishes in front of Maura with a mile wide grin. "Crème Brule…"

"It looks delicious…" Maura beamed clapping her hands in excitement.

"It has a coffee, mocha base with chocolate covered espresso beans mixed in." Carly explained as she continued to hand out the desserts with Ryan's help.

Just as they had finished passing everything out, a slightly older, male version of Cindy appeared at the top of the stairs. By the flustered look on his face, it was obvious that he had rushed to make it there in time for dessert.

"Hey…I made it." He said opening his arms wide as Cindy jumped from her seat and rushed towards him.

"Luc…" Cindy shouted as she wrapped her arms around him. "Let me introduce everyone to you."

As Cindy went around the table making introductions, Jane couldn't help but study the young man with a slightly critical eye. He was about the same age as Carly, maybe a year or two younger she presumed as she watched him smile and shake hands. He had blonde hair and blue eyes to match his sisters, in fact they looked like they could be twins. The easy smile that was fixed on his face radiated warmth and friendliness. It wasn't until she heard her name that she turned her attention to what Cindy was saying.

"And this is Frankie's sister Jane…,this is my brother Luc." Cindy said proudly.

"Um…yeah…nice to meet you Luc." Jane stood to shake his hand.

"It is nice to meet you too…officially that is." He shook her hand. "I must say that your reputation does precede you…" He gave her a sheepish grin. When Jane's only response was a raised eyebrow, he continued. "Actually I graduated from the same high school as you three years ago. Even then you had a stellar reputation as a star athlete."

"I guess that would make me a sophomore when you graduated…" Jane tilted her head slightly to regard him. "I don't remember you…"

"Yeah…well I kinda kept to myself in those days…being a computer geek and all." An embarrassed blush colored his cheeks. His attention quickly turned to Maura who caught his eye over Jane's shoulder. "And you must be Maura…" He reached out to take her hand as she moved around from behind Jane. "You are an absolute vision in that vintage gown…" he said as he brought the back of her hand up to brush a soft kiss across her knuckles eliciting a giggle from Maura.

"I'm very happy to make your acquaintance…" Maura smiled.

"Enchanté…" He placed his other hand over the back of the hand he was already holding eliciting another giggle.

Jane watched wide eyed as Maura giggled not once but twice in the span of a few seconds, something she rarely experienced from her normally reserved girlfriend. "Yeah, yeah…enchan…whatever…" Jane grumbled as she possessively took Maura's hand from Luc's. The move brought a puzzled look from both Luc and Maura, but Maura didn't resist the comfort of lacing her fingers with Jane's.

"Mind if I have a seat and join you for dessert?" He nodded at the empty chair next to Jane, taking a seat without waiting for a response. "This looks delicious Carly…" He smiled up at Carly who was watching Jane with a mixture of surprise and uncertainty.

"Thanks Luc…" Carly turned her attention to Luc and smiled. "This is Ryan…" She said as she pulled Ryan out from behind her.

"Aw…I've heard so much about you." He stood again to shake Ryan's hand.

Cocking her head slightly so she could look up at Carly, Ryan raised both eyebrows in question.

"What can I say…I missed you today." Carly shrugged her shoulders at the admission.

"Well, I hope it was mostly good." Ryan turned her attention back to Luc.

"Mostly…" He gave her playful wink before taking his seat again.

Watching the interaction between Luc and Carly and Ryan, Maura couldn't help but notice the tension that rolled off of Jane in waves. It wasn't until Jane cast a wary glance in her direction that she realized jealously was the culprit. Although she had taken her seat already, Jane was still standing, stiff and hesitant as to what she should do next. With a gentle tug, Maura pulled Jane down to sit next to her. Knowing she needed to reassure Jane that everything was okay, Maura leaned over to whisper into Jane's ear.

"Luc's gay…" The words were whispered into Jane's ear, drawing a sigh of relief as a response.

With a subtle nod, Jane acknowledged what Maura had told her. She squeezed the hand that she still held in her own as she finally allowed a smile to grace her lips. At Carly and Ryan's exit, she turned her attention back to dessert in contented silence.

As the evening began to slowly come to an end, Jane found herself sitting alone with Luc while Maura bid farewell to Barry and his girlfriend and Gio and Marti.

"So if you went to high school here, how come we haven't met until now?" She inquired.

"I've been going to school in San Francisco." Luc answered with a sad look on his face.

Jane recognized the shadow that flitted across his face as sadness piquing her interest. "Hummm….something gives me the impression there's more to the story…"

"Well…I guess there is." He looked away before sighing heavily. "Do you know how lucky you are Jane?" He turned to her, a serious expression on his face.

"I think I have an idea." She fidgeted slightly under his gaze.

"Do you…really?" Blue eyes locked onto brown and held for moment. When Jane nodded, Luc continued. "Not all of us have a happy ending when we come out to our family…at least not for me."

Doing something that was completely out of character for her, Jane reached over and placed her hand on his arm. "I'm sorry…" She gave his arm a gentle squeeze.

He looked away again, focusing on a candle that was flickering in a desperate attempt to stay lit as it was on the verge of reaching the end of its wick. In a valiant attempt to hold on, the flame began to tremble wildly just before it went out in a puff of smoke. He watched it curl up and float away before disappearing into the dark.

"The day I came out to my parents was the day they disowned me…I haven't seen or spoken to them since." He nervously rubbed the back of his neck.

"But you've still got Cindy…?" It was more a statement than a question.

"Yes…my little sister is an incredible girl…um…I guess I should say woman now…" An embarrassed flush colored his cheeks. "Hard to believe how grown up she is."

"Yeah…that kinda happens when you're the oldest sibling." Jane leaned back in her chair to watch her own brother across the way as he stood with his arms around Cindy looking over the city lights.

"So…what are you studying?" She asked as her eyes moved from Frankie and Cindy to Maura. She watched Maura move in her direction causing her to shift slightly to make room. It surprised her when Maura climbed onto her lap, wrapped her arms around her neck and snuggled against her.

"Computer engineering…" His smile was genuine as he watched the interaction between Maura and Jane. "And I hope that Cindy will be joining me out there next year."

"Oh, that is a great field of study…so much is happening in the world of technology and you must be right in the middle of it there near Silicon Valley…" Maura's interest was piqued.

"Absolutely…" Luc shook his head enthusiastically.

"It'll be hard on Frankie if Cindy leaves…" Jane mused aloud as she unconsciously ran her hand up and down Maura's back.

"I suppose it will be…but she'll be here another year yet…and a lot can change in a year." Luc's answer was merely a statement of fact, not one meant to insinuate that Frankie and Cindy wouldn't still be together by then.

Jane took what Luc had said as such, just a statement of fact as she tried to tramp down the heavy feeling of foreboding at the thought that her and Maura would be going to separate schools in the fall. "Long distance relationships can be hard." She sighed.

"But they are doable…" Maura pulled away slightly so she could look up at Jane. "We will be okay Jane…" She tried to reassure the uncertainty she could see in Jane's eyes.

Sensing that Jane's mood was turning gloomy, Luc quickly changed the subject. "You look great in that tux…" He said with a grin.

"Yeah? Thanks…guess it was Frankie's idea." Jane gave an embarrassed smile.

"Don't give him all of the credit…I was dying to see you in a tux…" Maura gave Luc a small smile, grateful for the subject change.

"You wear it well…" He reached over, giving Jane's arm a light pat. "Got that Marlene Dietrich thing going on…"

"So I've been told…" Jane rolled her eyes at him. She couldn't help but join him when he started to laugh.

"I'm really glad I got to meet you two…" Luc leaned forward in his chair as he got ready to get up. "Seeing you together like this…it gives me hope for a happy ending, ya know." He stood up and put his hand on Jane's shoulder. "Good luck to you both." He shook Jane's hand before leaning down to place a light kiss on Maura's cheek.

"It was a pleasure Luc." Jane smiled up at him as Maura nodded in agreement. "I hope we'll see you again."

"Me too…now it you'll excuse me ladies, I think I'll go spend a little time with my sister." He waved as he left them alone for the first time since their evening had begun.

"And then there was two…" Jane sighed as she placed her cheek against the top of Maura's head, grateful for the reprieve.

Jane looked down when she felt Maura moving against her to find small hands untucking her shirt before disappearing beneath the material.

"What're you doing Maura…?" Jane scrambled to stop Maura's now hands from wandering too far up her shirt.

"I'm just trying to warm my hands…" The feeling of Jane's hot skin against the palms of her hands caused Maura to tremble in anticipation. Spending the evening with friends had been wonderful, but she was ready to get Jane alone. She was unable to resist the expanse of Jane's neck that lay so very close to her mouth so she placed several light kisses there, drawing a shuttering breath from Jane.

"Maur…" Jane's voice was breathless as she struggled to stay in control. "We can't…not here…"

There was a silent plea in Jane's voice that caused Maura to stop. "You're right…" She pulled her hands away from the warmth she had found under Jane's shirt. "Which is why I have reserved us a room in the city for the night." She looked up into grateful brown eyes and smiled. "This was wonderful…" She waved her hands around, indicating everything around them. "But tonight…tonight belongs to us…" The words were followed by a slow, sensual kiss that brought a moan from deep within Jane's chest.

"Do you think they'll miss us if we leave now?" The words were spoken against Maura's slightly parted lips.

"No…" Maura pulled away from their kiss to answer.

"What'll Frankie and Cindy do if we leave?" Jane asked as she pushed a piece of stray hair away from Maura's face, tucking it behind an ear.

"They'll be fine…I think Frankie has something planned." Maura tried to push down the barest hint of guilt. Frankie had asked her if she could help him reserve a room so he and Cindy could spend the night together. She had agreed, but she had also agreed not to tell Jane, something she wasn't happy about. When she felt Jane's lips find hers again with more urgency than before, she forgot where her thoughts were headed.

"Then what are we waiting for?" Jane moved her lips, skimming across Maura's cheek to whisper the words in her ear. With gentle movements, she lifted Maura from her lap and stood to tuck her shirt in giving Maura a sheepish grin in the process.

With a smirk on her face, Maura watched Jane tuck her shirt in. "Don't know why you're bothering to do that…I'm only going to untuck it when we get to the limo…"

Jane's cheeks turned bright red with the blush that raced across her face as she imagined what Maura had planned for them. "Hey…" She called out to get Frankie's attention. "Thanks for tonight…it was great. Will you tell Carly and Ryan thanks and goodnight for us?" Grabbing Maura's hand, she headed towards the exit.

"Yeah…night." Frankie waved as Jane led Maura away. He couldn't help but give Maura a shy smile when their eyes met and she gave him a knowing wink back.

'Tonight belongs to us indeed…' Maura thought to herself shivering in anticipation as she allowed Jane to lead her away. Even though it was almost midnight, she smiled at the thought that their evening was just beginning.