Days went by and Olivia had pretty much-done everything to get his attention. Paid more attention to him. Cured him when he came back hurt. Helped him with his daughter. Still, he wouldn't give her the time of day. Things have been getting heated up with BX9 and Los Angelico's. Which meant Rafael was in a bad mood all the time. She wasn't sure what else to do, that wasn't considering making the first move.

That was until this morning.

Olivia was just getting ready to go on her run when she bumped into Rafael.

"Shit, sorry." Olivia mumbled.

Rafael chuckled. "It's alright, I was actually on my way to see you."

Olivia frowned. "What for?"

"Tonight there is an event in the plaza. Dia de Los Santos." Rafael explained.

Olivia smiled. "My mother used to take me to those events. Loved them as a little girl."

"Well, in that case, I was hoping you would join me then?" Rafael asked.

Olivia was hopeful this day would come, just not so damn soon. Trying not to react negatively, she nodded. "I would be happy too."

"Perfect, I will see you here at 8 pm." With that note, he walked away.

Olivia was surprised by this. She figured their first outing would be isolated. Them two only, not in a plaza filled with people. His people. How the hell, was she supposed to act around them? Jogging into her room, she quickly picked out the outfit for tonight. Nothing too fancy, but enough to get Barba's attention. Making sure no one was nearby, she quickly pulled out her phone and sent a text to Craigen.

During this time, Craigen was the only one to have contact with her. Her teammates were prohibited to try and talk with her. Melinda was not too happy about it, but she always made sure Craigen told Olivia how much she was missed. Noah had also sent her, hugs and kisses. She missed her son and really couldn't wait for this to be over and see him. Craigen had told her he was looking for a way to work something out. Just one phone call with Noah would be enough.

Night came by quickly and Olivia was all dressed up. She wore a nice summer dress, with white sandals, and her hair loose. She was anxious, and her stomach was twirling. Craigen had informed her he and the team would be nearby, watching the crowd and people. They needed to get a good profiler on this man and his people.

Barba appeared in the hallway, exactly at 8 pm. He wore a dark gray suit, his hair combed back, and his beard had been trimmed. Damn, he looked good. Giving him a small smile, he paused beside her.

"You look beautiful." Rafael said, holding his arm out for her, he took her out and down the street.

She could hear the music and people's laughter blocks away. It was amazing. Kids playing, adults merging in a happy and wonderful celebration. Barba was greeted by everyone they passed. Some small kids and teenagers would run up to him. Some hugged him, others kissed him. Olivia knew one thing, he was loved by the people in his community. Damon had long gone disappeared with a few of his buddies, while Jack was with his fiancé and friends. She knew Allison was off with her cousins in the cotton candy station.

Olivia, while her date was distracted, turned on her small ear mic. Craigen was currently talking.

Barba uses it as a day for the community to honor and celebrate loved ones who died in the past year.*

Olivia glanced at him, as he greeted a young woman and her baby.

From the highest Angelico's shot-caller to the lowest pee-wee recruit, they are all coming out of the woodwork today. If we do our job's right today, we will have the opportunity to profile guys we don't normally see.*

Rafael was stopped by an older lady, who was handing out small samples of food. Rafael took one and handed another to Olivia.

"Señora Cabral this is delicious!" Rafael moaned.

Olivia had to agree it was amazing.

"Should I add them to the menu at Jack's wedding?" She asked.

Olivia was a bit surprised, she would have thought Rafael would have used a catering business. Not a woman from the community.

"Of course, but please. Don't come in that." He gestured to the food truck behind them, trying to hide his amusement.

"Oh, that?" She laughed. "My son and daughter-in-law's idea."

Olivia couldn't help but laugh alongside Rafael.

"You need someone to help you in your kitchen?" Rafael asked, with a small smirk. "I'll loan you, Javier. He'll work for just a plate of your food."

Olivia glanced at Rafael's brother, only to see him get down on one knee and open his arms. Men. The lady simply laughed as Rafael gave her a kiss on the head and left. Olivia followed behind, taking one more piece of food.

"You said this was for Dia de Los Santos." Olivia said.

Rafael nodded. "It is, but I also use it so that the families have a day to honor those that cannot be here tonight. You'd be amazed by how many of them were innocent bystanders."

Olivia scoffed. "Many taken by your war and men."

"And I do not deny it, Olivia. I take responsibility for it. I look out for their family, they know to come to me if they need something." Rafael explained.

This guy makes me sick to my stomach.* Elliot's voice echoed through her ear. *Look at him shaking hands, kissing babies. Acting like he is the president.*

Olivia shook her head. "Around here he is."

Not for long.* Elliot replied.

Just then a priest came up to them.

Olivia scoffed/laughed. "You were saying."

"Rafael!"

"Father." Barba greeted him with a kiss on the hand. "How have you been? And the family?"

"They are very good. Miguel is doing wonderful in school." He grinned. "Thank you, Rafael, for helping him."

Rafael shook his head. "No thanks needed father. You have done so much for my family, it's the least I can do."

The man then glanced at the woman beside Rafael. "I apologize. I am father Ramiro."

"Padre." Olivia pecked his hand. "I am Olivia."

"Friend of Rafael?" He asked, giving the gang lord a look.

Rafael smiled. "It's an amazing turnout this year, father."

"As always, the community and I have you to thank, Rafael."

"None is needed, father."

"There is a matter I want to discuss with you." Father glanced towards Olivia, then to Rafael.

Olivia got the hint and smiled at him. "I am going to go get something to eat." Stroking Rafael's arm she left.

"Beautiful woman Rafael." Father said.

Rafael watched her walk towards the food truck, with a spark in his eyes. "Yes, she is."

"Rafael."

"Yes?"

"There was a man from the Metas. He came into the rectory this morning and demanded a thousand dollars to cover…' security fees' for the fiesta."

Rafael frowned. "What?"

"He claimed you're no longer in charge."

"Did you give him anything?" Rafael asked.

The father laughed. "No, I don't have that kind of cash on hand. He said he would be back."

Playing it off as nothing, to not scare the father. He smiled. "I'll take care of that father."

"Thank you."

Olivia had gotten her plate and stood on the side. The tacos were to die for. Reminded her of the good moments in her childhood. As a young girl, she remembers huddling with the other girls, smiling and giggling at the group of boys. The occasional make-out session you would sneak off to. The food and music. It was her childhood all over again.

Just then the truck went up in flames. Dropping her plate, she quickly ran towards the truck only to be pushed by the mob of people running. "Rafael!"

Get down there!* Craigen shouted.

Shots were then fired.

"Rafael!" Olivia yelled once more, pushing her way through the scared crowd of people.

Rafael having heard both Olivia and the shots took off running when he spotted the men shooting. "Javier!"

"Rafael!" Father Ramiro tried to stop him before running off.

Javier showed up with two guns in hand, handing one to Rafael. "Take the family out of here Javier. Get them to safety." The man nodded, gathering the boys they began escorting everyone out of the plaza. Rafael spotted Olivia behind the truck trying to let the family out. Aiming, he took down the shooter standing in front of the truck. Then rushed towards Olivia and help remove the screwdriver they lodged into the door.

Once they were all out, Rafael ushered Olivia away from the truck just as it blew.

"Mi hijo!" The same lady from before cried as she pulled her family into a hug. With tears in her eyes, she looked up at Olivia and Rafael. "Thank you."

"No tiene nada que agradeser." Olivia replied.

"Manuel!" Rafael shouted.

A young boy, about 20 years of age rushed up to him. "Si senor?"

"Take them home and make sure they are safe." Rafael ordered.

The young lad did as ordered quickly and without question.

Olivia followed Rafael as he approached one of the shooters. Kneeling beside him, he lifted his shirt and scoffed. "Metas. You a long way from home boy."

"This is Meta's turf now." The man growled.

Rafael stood up and aimed the gun at his head. "Not anymore." Taking the shot, Olivia jumped at the sound of the gun going off. She had seen many people die, some by her hand. But this was cold-blooded murder. Glancing to her left, she spotted her team, minus Elliot staring wide eye at Rafael and the dead man.

"Rafael Barba, drop the weapon!" Fin ordered.

Rafael glanced at them, before tossing the weapon into the fire. "You should not be here officers. It is not safe for you."

"You are coming with us." Craigen replied.

"On what grounds." Rafael asked.

Craigen got closer. "How about the murder of that man."

Rafael smirked. "I did no such thing. I don't even have a weapon."

"You are forgetting the witnesses Barba." Carisi growled.

"Ask away agents, I have nothing to hide." Walking backward, he turned, but stopped for Olivia, holding his hand out for her. "Olivia."

Olivia glanced at her team but took Rafael's hand. She knew Craigen was going to ask her to talk against him, but truth be told she couldn't. Didn't want to. The man saved that family, ignoring the bullets and fire. He killed one of the attackers and saved her life. She had noticed the way he shield her body, as the truck exploded. He risked his life for them. The question was why? Why risk his life for a couple of strangers and hers? Why?

As they arrived home, Rafael went straight to his office and locked himself in there with his brother and three other men. She changed and relaxed in the living room, trying to sort her thoughts out. Something was not right here. Why did that man say the Metas now had the control? What was Barba planning? The sound of Rafael's office door opening caught her attention. Everyone, but Rafael walked out. These men were on a mission, they went straight for the door and left. What now?

"They are going to look for the other three who attacked today. We know who they are and where to find them." Rafael appeared at the threshold of the living room.

Olivia frowned. "But no one died."

"No, but I rather not risk it. The Metas are not ones to take failure well. Much less losing a brother in the process." Rafael explained.

"Yet, you are hunting three more."

Rafael sighed, taking a seat across from her. "I have been planning a way to get out of this life for the past ten years Olivia. Ignoring what you heard or know, I do not enjoy this life. The problems, the death, and pain. My family is never safe, they had cops and rival gangs going after them their entire life. I try and protect them, but it is never enough. Damon is proof of that."

Olivia was somewhat confused. "Where are you going with this?"

"I am telling you this, so you are prepared. You may be new in this house, but I need to know I can count on you." Olivia gave him a small nod. "I made a deal with the Metas. One last shipment and delivery. I make enough money to get me and my family out of this life. The other side of the deal is, the Metas take over my territory."

Olivia was shocked. This man was stupid! "I don't agree with your lifestyle or what you do, but you can't let the Metas take over Rafael! They will destroy everything. Your empire and people."

"The family is first." He whispered. Taking her hand in his he sighed. "I apologize for today. I wanted to show you we are not all that bad."

This was annoying! She felt bad for him. She was learning he was not a bad man. Simply was in a bad world. "You can make it up to me another day."

"Saturday?" Rafael asked. "I know this great place, used to take my family every weekend."

"I would love to." Olivia smiled.

Rafael suddenly pulled her towards him and kissed her on the cheek. "Good night Olivia."

"Good night."

The next morning, she was going over her plans for the next week. She had Thursday and Friday, occupied with Damon's therapy. She had Saturday morning and afternoon shopping with Allison, then Saturday night with Rafael. She had to squeeze a call within with Craigen sometime those days. Speaking of Craigen.

"You can't go in there!" Alma came running after the squad, who was now in Rafael's home. This could not end well. "Please, sir."

"It's okay Alma." Olivia stopped the older lady from shouting. No need to attract the attention of others. "I'll attend to them."

"Fine, pero you need anything you scream." Alma glared at the team before walking off angrily. "Idiotas!"

"What did she just call us?" Carisi snapped.

"Idiots." Fin replied.

Olivia glanced around, making sure no one was around. "What are you doing here?"

Craigen frowned. "We came to talk with Barba and you."

"Why?"

"Olivia, you saw what he did yesterday. He shot a man cold-blooded." Carisi reminded. "With your testimony, we can arrest him for murder and any new charges that appear later."

Olivia shook her head. She knew it was the right thing, but she couldn't. For some reason, she couldn't turn him over. It wasn't right. Not now. "You had me do a job. You ordered me to gather the intel you needed for something much bigger than a murder charge."

Craigen took a step forward. "We arrest him now and we will be given access to everything. By the time we are done with the search, we will have everything we need."

Olivia stepped back. "You do that, and you will find nothing Captain. The moment you put those handcuffs on him, his people will get rid of everything. Not to mention that you know as well as I that murder charge will not stick."

"What do you mean?" Fin asked.

"That man, not only risked his life but saved the lives of four people. Including mine, one you want to put in the stand against him." Olivia explained. "His people will stand by him, so will any cop and judge that want the Metas gone. Compared to Los Angelico's, The Metas are much worse. You know that, and I know that."

"Why the sudden change?" Fin asked.

Olivia was taken aback by his question. "What?"

"Weeks ago, you were pissed off in having to do this. From what Elliot told us you were less than thrilled of the changes done." He pointed out. "Now you are willing to stand by him even longer to get what we need? No offense, but even I would take this and get the hell out of here Olivia. Noah misses you."

"I was given a job and I cannot simply leave it halfway done." Olivia said. Couldn't they understand? She wasn't one to leave things halfway. She knew Rafael would beat the system on such fibula charges. He was smart and somehow always one step before them. "Don't do this now."

"Listen Oli-"

"Olivia?" Everyone turned to see Rafael Barba making his way to them. Rafael had been told by Alma, about the feds walking into his home. She said Olivia was taking care of them, but after hearing what little he could it was not going well. That was when he decided to jump in. He stood in front of Olivia, blocking their view of her. "What can I do for you Detectives?"

Craigen's face was stoned. Showed nothing for the man before him. "Wanted to ask you questions about last night."

Barba shrugged. "I already gave my statement to the officers on scene."

"Well, we want to hear it personality." Fin gave him a fake smile.

Barba glanced at Olivia, before turning to the group. "Then you will have to come back once my lawyer has arrived."

"We just want your statement." Carisi informed.

Barba laughed. "I have learned long ago to never talk to your people without backup. Or have you forgotten your attempt to arrest me last night?." He gestured for them to leave, but stopped them at the last moment. "Another thing."

Craigen stared him down. "What?"

"Don't come near my family again." He wrapped an arm around Olivia's waist, in a clear sign of claim. Rafael didn't know what to make of the look in the man's eyes.

Craigen gave Olivia a look and shook his head. "Excuse us." Olivia watched them leave and if she knew him well, they were going to have a small talk.

Rafael sighed as he took a few steps forward, then turned to Olivia. "Why didn't you come get me?"

"Didn't think it was necessary." Olivia shrugged.

"This was Olivia. I don't want them anywhere near you or my family." Rafael ran a hand through his hair. "What did they ask of you?"

Olivia debated but gave in. "They know I saw what happened at the festival. The shooting and you killing the meta."

"They want you to talk against me." He said it as if, this was not the first time. "Next time please come get me."

Olivia nodded, giving him a small smile. "I'll do that."

Rafael took a deep breath and moved towards his office, but stopped. "Olivia?"

"Yes?"

"How about we move that Saturday dinner to tonight." Rafael asked, having turned to face her and leaning against the door frame. "I got a call today from the restaurant and they informed me an opening had occurred."

Olivia grinned. "I have a pretty full day."

"Don't worry about the kids, Javier already planned to stay if they need anything." Rafael said. "Besides, why wait until Saturday?"

"Because that was the plan." Olivia reminded.

Walking closer to her, he stood about a foot away. "I don't like sticking to a routine." Seeing the amusement in her eyes he tried once more. "Tonight?"

Looking up at him, she couldn't help but feel that little uneasy feeling in her stomach. It was both fear and giddiness. Not sure if that was good or bad. "Okay, tonight."

"Be ready by 9." Leaving her in the living room, he walked back into his office.