A/N: I've been a bit sad about this story lately. Because I've realized just how close we are to the end. You know it's 7 years next month since I started this. That's a long time to have something in your life. But, I guess we have to let everything go at some point. I just hope it was worth keeping up with the story all that time and I thank everyone for their support.

So, let's get on with it. Just a few more chapters to come. Thank you to calim for yet another super beta.

Chapter 175

Four weeks later…

It had been a tough month for Sara but she'd been strong, stronger than even she thought she could be. Birthing a child seemed much easier on some days than having to deal with a screaming child who seemed hell-bent on driving his mother crazy. And while pulling out her hair and snapping at anyone within arm's reach helped a little, she still plowed on only occasionally giving him up for someone else to look after for an hour or so.

She hated herself during those times. It made her feel weak but Grissom helped her to understand that even the best of mothers needed help sometimes. He was a godsend, her man, putting up with her screaming and pushing, standing there and taking every shout of anger and frustration until she'd calm and he'd pull her into a loving embrace. Usually she'd cry then and he'd carry her to bed and stay with her until she fell asleep. Where would she ever be without him?

Dabbing a little blush on her cheeks, Sara managed a small smile. Today, Thomas was to be christened. Well, not the full ceremony. The newly named godparents, William and Amelia, couldn't make the trip due to the recent birth of their son so Reverend Mathew's agreed to a simple blessing for now. It was enough for she and Grissom.

"Who's a good boy then?"

Turning in her seat, Sara glanced at her husband happily pacing back and forth with Thomas in his arms. Her smile grew at the look on his face as he stared up at his father, so adorable in his white lace embroidered christening gown, pristine and unique. Laura had beamed with pride upon presenting the gift noting she'd personally overseen its creation.

"Now, you're going to be good for Mama and Papa today, aren't you? And you are going to give Mama some peace," Grissom continued, running his finger down the tiny dimple in his son's chin. Thomas kicked out his legs, offering his father a gargle. "I think he's agreeing."

"Let's hope so," Sara chuckled.

Flashing her a smile, he lay Thomas in his basket before approaching her, leaning in close to plant a tender kiss upon her lips. "You feeling all right?" he asked sweetly.

Those eye, those bright, burning blue eyes. Whenever she glanced into them, deeply, she got so lost and a tingle always shot down her spine. And now, she was sure she was blushing as a feeling she hadn't felt for some time began to grow down below.

Rubbing his arm, she returned his smile. "I'm fine," she said softly. "Looking forward to getting out of here for a while and I can't think of a better reason than blessing our son before the eyes of God."

He kissed her again, his eyebrows rising as her hand slipped around the back of his neck to pull him harder against her lips. And then, when he felt her tongue slip into his mouth, his pants become a little restricting. He wasn't quite expecting this vigor at this particular point in time but damn, he liked it.

"Hummm," he mumbled as she pulled back watching her tongue run across her bottom lip. That did not help the current burning his groin. "Where did that come from?"

"What?" she questioned innocently. "Am I not allowed to kiss you?"

Inhaling deeply, he pulled her up, wrapping his arms around her. "Of course," he said softly, hands running up her back. "But it's been some time since you've kissed me like that." His head tipped from side to side. "Well, without my encouragement that is."

Her lips pursed. "I'm sorry if I've neglected you."

Dropping his forehead against hers, he sighed. "You haven't," he said sincerely. "And I didn't mean it like that."

She smirked. "I know," she said quietly. "I'm just," she paused with a sigh of her own and his right eye twitched in anticipation. "Let's just say," she continued, hand running down the lapel of his jacket, "that I'm feeling…better."

His eyebrows soared again. "Oh," he answered sounding surprised. "You mean…better as in…"

"Yes," she snorted, placing her hand against his cheek. "As in 'lie me down and make that bed creak', better." As his mouth popped open and he struggled for a reply to that, she laughed. "A little bit too much?" she asked.

"Um…" He swallowed down the sudden lump that had caught his throat and could feel his cheeks were now a little rosier than they were. The thought of doing just that to her very prime in his mind. "Just a little unexpected," he admitted. "I thought it would be a few more weeks before…you know…"

"Me, too," she confessed. "But, I feel fine and all healed and Marcia says I'm all good, so…"

"Are you sure?" he asked.

Sara smiled at his hesitation. "Yes."

He looked around the room, not entirely sure why. "So…we postpone the christening?"

Laughing heartily, she clasped both his cheeks and softly shook his head from side to side. "An interesting thought, but sadly no."

"Pity," he replied huskily.

"Our son's life in the hands of God is a little more important than our urges, my dear."

"Very true," he breathed, finding it very difficult to pull his eyes away from her now.

"Plus," Sara continued, "We'd need some private time to be able to do anything. And I don't see that happening today but, I thought best to let you know."

"Hmmm," he mumbled. "Thanks. I'm sure going to church with that on my mind was certainly the best call of the day."

Snickering, she kissed him on the cheek as a knock interrupted their moment.

Laura poked her head in just as the couple separated their embrace. "The coaches are here if you're ready," she called over. "And don't forget to wrap Thomas up properly. It is bitter out there."

"Five minutes and we'll be down, Mother," Sara replied.

With a nod, Laura backed out of the door and Sara gave her husband one more quick kiss on the cheek before moving to grab Thomas' blanket from the crib.

"Do you think one blanket will be enough?" she asked, looking back to her husband. "As Mother said, it's really cold."

Trying his best to shake thoughts of making love to his wife from his mind, Grissom approached his son who was merrily kicking his legs and smiled the second he saw his father.

"What do you think, little one?" he asked, tapping Thomas on the nose. "Should we take a spare blanket just in case?" Thomas's legs kicked a little more and Grissom smiled. "We'll take a spare one just in case," he said, picking up the basket and turning back to his wife.

Nodding, Sara moved to the closet and pulled out another blanket, dropping it into the bottom of the basket as Grissom held it up.

"Ready to go?" she asked.

Holding out his free hand, he nodded. "Ready."

CSICSICSICSICSICSICSI

The roads were reasonably clear what with the snowfall light so far this season, so the ride to church was smooth and without incident. A blessing in its own right.

Grissom peered through the carriage's window to see Reverend Mathews and several guests standing just inside the church doors, chatting amongst themselves. Turning toward his wife, he flashed her a smile.

"Ready?" he asked, grabbing ahold of Thomas's basket.

She nodded. "Ready," she confirmed.

Just as he was about to step out of the carriage, the captain poked his head in. "Let me take him while you get out," he said, holding out his hand.

"Thanks," Grissom returned, holding Thomas out to his grandfather.

The captain took the basket then Grissom slid out, holding out his hand for his wife. Smiling, she took hold of him, a waft of cold air hitting her making her shiver.

"Brrrr," Sara complained. "It's freezing."

"It is a little nippy," Grissom agreed, taking his son back from his father-in-law. "So, I don't think we should dally out here."

Quickly, Sara reached into the basket and pulled the second blanket over her son. Thomas did nothing but smile as his mother pulled off her glove and whisked a finger down his cheek.

"Well, he's not too cold," she said. "And he seems happy enough."

Laura took her husband's arm and smiled, Nicolas and Gregory leaping from their carriage and joining them along with Rana and Marcia.

"Gil, Sara."

Everyone turned to see the reverend approaching, Grissom catching sight of Brass and Catherine behind him, chatting with a few other family friends.

"Good morning, Reverend," Sara greeted.

Reverend Mathews smiled. "Good morning," he said cheerfully. "You are both looking very well."

Sara smiled bashfully. "Thank you."

Smiling back, Mathews took a peek inside the basket. "And what do we have here," he said to Thomas who just blinked at the strange face before offering a gargle and a flap of his arms. "Very energetic, aren't we?" he chuckled.

"He certainly likes to move," Grissom confirmed.

"He's delightful," the reverend cooed. "Many congratulations." Everyone smiled now as Matthews placed an arm behind Grissom. "But how about we move inside where it's warmer?"

"Sounds good to me," Grissom agreed. Holding his free arm out to Sara, they headed towards the doors.

"Good morning," Catherine called as the group approached.

"Morning," Grissom replied watching as her eager eyes fell upon the basket and she leaned to get a closer look.

Catherine's face beamed. "Aww, he's so cute," she drawled.

Grissom's eyes flicked to Brass behind who had a wide grin on his face.

"That he is," Sara agreed. "But he's going to get chilly if we don't get inside. There will be plenty of time later for introductions."

"Of course," Catherine agreed, straightening out. "We certainly don't want him catching a cold now."

Why did Catherine usually have the ability to make Sara worry? She glanced to her husband who offered her nothing but a reassuring smile.

"Come on," he urged, tugging on her arm and heading inside the church.

CSICSICSICSICSICSICSI

Sitting in the first row while the guests took their seats to the side and behind them, Grissom and Sidle family settled in. Taking Thomas from his basket, Sara held him in her arms, smiling down at him as he looked around the unfamiliar building.

Reverend Mathews headed up onto the altar and held out his hands.

(1)

"Friends, we gather here today for the blessing of this child." He looked down to Thomas and his parents with a smile. "We wish to give thanks for him, with his family and friends, and to support his parents in their responsibilities with prayer and love.

It is God's purpose that children should know love within the stability of their home, grow in faith, and come at last to the eternal city where his love reigns supreme."

Grissom reached for Sara's hand, squeezing it tightly as the reverend continued.

"This ceremony is not simply a 'naming ceremony' or even just a blessing for a new baby. It is the beginning of a new life and the gateway to eternal life. Many people are overcome by a sense of awe at the creation of such a new life and want to express their thanks to God. This service is the opportunity for friends and family to give thanks for this new life.

"Gil and Sara wish to express and share their joy to all of you on the birth of their son, Thomas. They are pleased that he has arrived safely and they want to welcome him into their family, their community of friends and to the world. It is certain that the more love this child receives, the more he will benefit and, in turn, the more he will be able to give unto others. And the more people with whom he'll relate the more balanced and rich his growth will be.

"So, your presence at this celebration today is appreciated as will be your interest and involvement in the years ahead. Let us pray."

Everyone bowed their heads.

"God bless this little boy. Keep him safe within your sight and fill him with your precious love each day and every night. Surround this child with happiness and contentment every day; and as this child is growing, please guide him in every way. This baby boy is a miracle, a blessing from above. Thank you God for this precious gift of love. Amen."

"Amen."

"Sara, Gil, will you approach please," Reverend Mathews requested.

Giving Sara a beaming smile, Grissom helped her up and the two climbed the steps to the altar to stand before the reverend, Thomas remaining reasonably happy in his mother's arms.

"Sara, may you always have the strength of your spirit to teach Thomas how to stand and walk. May you continually feed and nurture the life that was formed within you. May he always be embraced in your love. May you share his joy, love, laughter and take pride in who he is.

"Gil, may you be honored for the many good things you want for your son. May your love, affection and concern for Thomasalways be part of you. May your strength, wisdom and right direction be Thomas' guiding light. May you always have the respect, obedience and deep affection of your son.

"Recognizing this, you stand before us now as parents to reaffirm your commitment to each other and to your son."

Picking up a small chalice from the water font, Mathews motioned towards the couple. "Please step forward."

Sara kissed Thomas on the forehead before joining the reverend, Grissom right by her side.

"Little one, you are Thomas Albert," the reverend began, dipping his hands into the water as Sara maneuvered her son over the font. "Your name has been given to you in love. May it be a source of comfort and pride."

Carefully, he trickled water over Thomas' forehead, very lightly making the sign of the cross upon his skin. Thomas just blinked at him and, thankfully, no tears came. At least not yet.

"We wish you long life and happiness in a loving and peaceful world."

Now the reverend dipped the chalice into the water, partly filling it before drizzling the water over the baby's head. Thomas kicked out his feet and Sara tried to soothe him, whispering words of encouragement.

"May you bring joy to your parents, your godparents, your grandparents, and to each of us, your family and friends."

Thomas kicked out again, his head shaking a little as the reverend reached for a cloth and lightly dabbed the water away.

Sara smiled, as did Grissom. They were so proud that not a peep of discomfort had come from their son. Lifting him back up, Sara lay Thomas against her shoulder and rocked him. He was more interested in looking around than anything else.

"It is not always possible," the reverend said, "for grandparents to involve themselves in the development of their grandchildren but when they do it is a great bonus and blessing. Their important role is the passing on of cultural values to children. They assist children in finding their identity and their inner security and to integrate themselves into society. The special relationship of trust and mutual enjoyment which develops between child and grandparent is something very special.

"Through this relationship children learn their lineage, their history and many values and skills. This cultural inheritance lays the foundation for the young person to construct their personality during childhood and adolescence and adds great meaning to their existence. For this reason Gil and Sara wish to recognize and express their gratification that Thomas' grandparents are here today."

He held out a hand to gesture Laura and the captain up to the altar. Quickly, they got to their feet to join the group, both smiling with pride when they reached their family.

"Your grandchild, Thomas Albert, is on the first rung of the ladder of life. He will bring you great joy and happiness as you watch him grow," the reverend said to them. "Gil and Sara would like to recognize and express their adoration for you. We hope Thomas will bring as much love and joy to your life as you bring to his."

Laura took her husband's arm and leaned into him with a happy sigh.

Mathews looked out over the gathered. "A tradition in our culture is the responsibility accepted by godparents. However, due to some of the named Godparents being unable to make the journey today, it is Gil and Sara's wish that we hold a second ceremony in order to bestow this responsibility when all parties are available."

A few mumbles echoed throughout the church and Sara took a breath. They were after all breaking the rules by doing this but, in all honesty, when had they ever done everything by the book?

Grissom leaned into her. "Relax," he whispered. "This is our choice."

She nodded, turning Thomas back into her arms so she could kiss him on the forehead again. She knew her parents weren't 100% happy with their decision but in the end they understood. Thomas needed the best Godparents and waiting for William and Amelia was the best decision.

Holding up his hands one more time, the reverend began the last sermon.

"Today we rejoice with Gil and Sara as they celebrate the blessing of their son. God, we thank you for the wonder of new life and the mystery of human love. We give thanks for all whose support and skill surround and sustain the beginning of life. May these parents have your sustaining grace and love and may this child grow in strength and wisdom.

"Thomas, it is our duty, as your family and friends, to present you in the coming years with a broad and balanced view of life and encourage you in the virtues we all agree as good - integrity, honesty, concern, fairness, and love toward fellow human beings. We ask that all of life's blessings be bestowed upon you and that the future will be bright, prosperous and joyous. May you grow in health of body and mind to full adulthood and may it be your good fortune to play some worthy part in making life more pleasant for those whose paths you cross."

Looking out at the assembled, Mathews smiled. "Ladies and gentlemen, may I present to you the son of Gil and Sara, their son Thomas Albert."

Sniffing, Sara felt Grissom's arm slide around her waist and she looked up at him. As the onlookers stood, he nodded for her to approach them.

"Time for everyone to say hello," he encouraged and she nodded, heading down the steps.

*** - "This new life was an anxious life, no doubt; still, he saw that there was a new sustaining pride in it. Nothing unbecoming tinged the pride; it was a natural and worthy one; but he observed it as a curiosity."

*** - Extract taken from A Tale of Two cities by Charles Dickens (adapted)

– Sermon words from Reverend John Graf Jr. (Adapted)

A/N: Awwww. :) Got to love the fluff.