DISCLAIMER: I do not own the show "Hawaii Five-0" or any of it's characters.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Hi everyone! Thank you sooo much for your patience. You guys rock! I loved all your reviews! I hope you enjoy this chapter as you see a side to Steve that only Maddie sees. You also get glimpses of the real Maddie and how well they know one another. Also, just a heads up that I did remove some more in depth sentences to match the description for the T-Rating that are in the main version of the story. But the gist is still there.

Reminder: it's only been 3 days and thoughts are in italics.

ENJOY!

xo

Divalola

CHAPTER 23

Maddie immediately snuggled into the pillow, closing her sleepy eyes, when Steve laid her on the bed. He smirked as he noticed that, even half asleep, she'd made sure her feet were hanging over the edge of the bed. She'd always hated shoes on the bed even when they were in preschool. Not wanting to bother her, he turned and walked into her closet. As he stood in the middle he felt completely overwhelmed. Who needs this many clothes? he wondered. Having no idea where she kept her pajamas, he opened the drawer she kept his stolen clothes in and pulled out a short sleeve Annapolis t-shirt. He'd wondered where that had gone. "What a little klepto," he chuckled. As much as he'd love for her to wear only his shirt, he'd be too tempted to touch her and lose himself in her, and they weren't there yet. They still had too much to talk about and figure out. He began opening all the surrounding drawers hoping to stumble across something she could wear to bed. "Ah ha," he mumbled triumphantly as he found her drawer of leggings and pulled a pair out.

As he exited her closet Steve smiled as he met Maddie's blue eyes. "Hey sleepyhead," he quietly greeted. She flashed him a tiny smile as he sat next to her. Taking in her complexion, he asked, "You really don't feel well, do you?" She shook her head. "Mads, I wish you would have said something earlier."

"I didn't want to disappoint Gracie," she mumbled earning her a pointed look as Steve unbuckled her sandals. Pulling them off, he dropped them on the carpet. "Don't tickle me," she giggled.

"I didn't even touch your feet," he laughed as he reached his hands out to her. When she took them, he slowly pulled her into a sitting position. She groaned at the spinning room and leaned her head against his shoulder. Although still worried, Steve sighed contentedly as he wrapped his arms around her and laid his cheek against the top of her head.

Maddie lifted her head once the dizziness subsided and immediately found herself lost in Steve's blue eyes. She'd always found it fascinating how his eyes changed color. Every fiber of his being wanted to give in to the magnetic force pulling him closer and closer to her. He'd been dying to kiss her again since their mini make-out session the day before, but knew it was smarter to wait.

God, he's hot, she thought, wanting nothing more than to have his mouth, and hands, on her."Stupid tequila," she mumbled.

"Is it making you sick?" Steve asked, confused.

She shook her head as she struggled with her hormones, currently hating that alcohol had this effect on her.

Trying to take her mind off the clawing need, she forced herself to take in cut up face. Slowly she reached her finger up and gently touched the laceration on his left cheek, the one Malia had just stitched. "How bad?" she whispered.

"How bad what?" he smiled slightly, reveling in her touch.

"Your cut."

"Not bad," Steve assured her.

She looked down, pulling his left arm away from her body. "Oof. That looks like it hurts," she noted.

"Nah, it's okay."

"That's a lot of stitches. I can't believe you were okay with her doing it in the kitchen. Didn't it hurt?"

"It wasn't too bad actually. I've dealt with worse."

Maddie's gaze returned to his face, her eyes so expressive. "Everything looks painful. I'm really sorry, Steve."

"You have nothing to be sorry about. You didn't hit me. Trust me, I'm fine." Steve's arm, returned to her back. "It's you I'm worried about."

She wrinkled her nose at him. "We've talked about this... I'm okay. Promise." She leaned forward and kissed his nose, however it took everything to stop there.

Although he knew he needed to put some distance between them, he made the mistake of briefly glancing at her lips as her tongue darted out and licked her bottom one. He immediately felt a warm, tingly feeling in his lower belly as his pants began to tighten. Come on, Steve, remove yourself from the situation, he told himself. Taking in a shaky breath he asked, "Do you need help getting changed? Or are you okay to do it yourself?"

Maddie smiled at him, biting her lower lip. "I'm good." Without realizing it, her hands moved to his chest and she began to gently rub. "Tequila wants me to answer differently," she whispered looking at him mischievously.

The sensual way she was rubbing his chest and her cute little nose wrinkle was making it so hard to remember why they shouldn't just throw caution to the wind. Why he shouldn't just lean her back on the soft mattress and fuse his mouth to hers. It was hard to focus on anything except the feel of her caressing him, but he forced himself to respond. "What are you talking about?"

Maddie smirked at him. "Nothing."

The breathy one word response paired with her sexy smile nearly undid him. "You can't say something like that with that mischievous look on your face and then tell me nothing," Steve grinned. "Tell me."

She giggled and smiled as she shook her head. She pushed him away lightly, forcing him to rise from the bed. He took a step back, his eyes never leaving her. Continuing their eye contact she slowly stood, a flirty, sexy smile on her face. A smile he discovered drove him wild and had him wondering all the ways he could get her to give it to him.

Trying to keep as much weight off her right leg as possible without looking like she was leaning, she began unbuttoning and unzipping her denim shorts. Steve took another couple steps back and his eyes widened as he watched them slowly slide down her gorgeous legs. Legs he really wanted wrapped around him right now. "I... I'll... turn around," he finally managed to say.

Still obviously drunk, or she wouldn't be so brave and brazen, especially given how the night had gone between them, Maddie laughed. "It's okay, Steve. It's just underwear. Like a bathing suit. Or like one of my stage outfits." Despite her words, he turned around anyway, immediately bringing the doubt and disappointment she'd felt all night careening back.

Just a minute longer and she'll be dressed, Steve told himself. Hold it together for just a bit longer. You can do this. He tried to focus on loosening his fingers, his back, his shoulders, Think of anything other than the fact she's nearly naked behind you.

Maddie pulled her top off, leaving her standing in her matching black lace underwear and bra. "Tell me when you're done," Steve mumbled hoping he sounded calmer than he felt.

As she unhooked her bra and dropped it on the bed, she quietly responded, "Would not turn around now."

His brows furrowed in confusion at the loss of playfulness her voice had held just a moment earlier.

After slipping his Annapolis shirt over her head, she sat on the edge of the bed and began tugging on the leggings. Once she got them to her thighs she slowly stood to pull them the rest of the way. However, Maddie put too much weight on her right leg causing her to hiss in pain.

"You okay? Need help?" Steve immediately asked without turning around.

"I'm okay," she quietly answered as she tugged the leggings over her butt. Quickly she folded her discarded clothes and set them next to her. "I'm done," she told him.

As Steve turned to face her, she was pulling the gem headband from her hair. The one that had been laying across her forehead. He chuckled.

"What?" Maddie asked, suddenly feeling self-conscious.

"You've got an indent of the headband thingy on your forehead," he told her gesturing to his head as he spoke.

Her face blushed and she forced a laugh. "Oh, it'll go away."

Both feeling uneasy, they silently stared at one another. Things have definitely changed, Steve thought. What if this goes wrong and I lose her? His mind went to worst case scenario. But I was going to lose her anyway, he acknowledged, trying to quiet his thoughts and not panic.

Needing to escape the awkward silence, Maddie slowly stood. "I'm gonna go get ready for bed." Before she had a chance to take a step Steve was at her side.

"Here let me help you."

Nervous and feeling the need to protect herself she replied, "It's okay. I got it." Maddie took a step forward with her right leg and winced.

"We had a deal. No more pushing me away. I know I hurt you, but I'm trying to fix it. You're in pain. Let me help you." Maddie stared into his pleading eyes, which were a bit greener than they had been moments before. Knowing he was right, she slowly reached her hands forward and tentatively laid them on his chest. Grinning at her he lifted her into his arms and carried her into the bathroom and set her on the counter between the two sinks. "Good?" When Maddie shyly nodded, he added, "I'm gonna go change and then I'll come back for you." Recalling Joe's words and advice, Steve reached out with his left hand and caressed her cheek as he stared into her eyes, smiling.

At his touch, the tingling between her legs intensified. "Tequila, you're killing me," she murmured once he was gone.

Although he heard her comment, Steve ignored it, planning to ask her about it when he returned.

Maddie's mind wandered as she recalled what they did in the movie theater the day before. God, she wanted a repeat performance like she wanted her next breath.

Barefoot and wearing a white t-shirt and grey sweatpants Steve stood across from Maddie, leaning against the shower door as he watched her. He couldn't keep the large smirk from his face as he watched her smile and stare off into space. She had no idea he was even there. What is she thinking about, he wondered. Whatever it was made her happy.

"Whatcha thinkin' about?" he asked as he pushed off the shower door and approached her. She immediately jumped, nearly slipping off the counter. Thankfully, he was close enough to grab her. "Sorry, Mads."

Clutching her heart, she breathed out a sigh of relief. Turning to him she playfully shoved at him. "Steve! Stop sneaking up on me!"

"Sorry! You never used to scare so easily." Taking in her dilated eyes and blushing face, he smirked at her. "What were you thinkin' about anyway?"

Her light blush worsened, embarrassed she'd been caught fantasizing about him. "Nothing," she mumbled, immediately looking away.

"I find that hard to believe since your face is the color of a tomato right now," Steve teased. Ignoring his comment, she flipped the water on and stuck her toothbrush in her mouth. He leaned in, his mouth near her ear. "That's okay... I'll get it out of you," he whispered seductively, his breath tickling her ear.

Maddie eyes grew wide and she nearly choked on toothpaste. Damn tequila, she inwardly cursed feeling her panties dampen. He pulled away and set the small bag he'd been holding on the counter. He smirked at her reaction and then opened the bag, pulling out his own toothbrush.

Silence descended over them as they brushed their teeth. Still sitting on the counter, Maddie leaned to her left and spit in the sink. Once she'd rinsed her mouth she began to scoot towards the edge of the counter. Standing in front of the other sink Steve caught her actions out of the corner of his eye. He took a couple steps towards her and reached out his left hand, still brushing with his right. Maddie held his hand tightly and dropped down to the floor. He leaned forward into her sink and spit, never once letting go of her hand. After rinsing his mouth, he turned to her. "What are you doing? You okay?"

She nodded, swaying slightly. He wasn't sure if it was because she was drunk, dizzy, or tired, or a combo. "Wash my face," she murmured.

"Okay." Still holding her hand Steve helped her take a couple steps so she was standing in front of the sink. Once she was holding the counter with her left hand he released her right. "I'll be right here," he said standing behind her, his hands lightly on her waist.

Giggling, she bent forward, wetting her face. He tried to force images of their current position from his mind. Keep it clean, he admonished himself forcing his thoughts to her laughter. Maybe getting drunk was exactly what she needed to let loose a bit. The giggles continued as she rubbed the face cleanser into her skin. They turned into full on laughs as she playfully wiggled her butt at him.

Steve sighed, doing his best to concentrate on making sure she didn't fall as opposed to the fact her cute little butt was practically touching his groin. He groaned as it made contact with the front of his sweats. His mind immediately returned to the previous day's activities in the movie theater.

"Steve?" Maddie called.

"Yeah?" he answered, pulled from his thoughts. She didn't have to respond when he saw her trying to reach across the counter for a towel, her face dripping wet and her eyes closed. "Oh, right." He took a step to the left and grabbed one with his long arm, his right hand still firmly holding her waist.

Maddie dried her face on the soft, pale blue towel he'd handed her. Setting it on the counter next to her she reached for a bottle of saline and a small case. As she pulled her contacts from her eyes, he continued to hold on to her waist, not realizing he was playing with the waistband of her leggings. Every time his fingers lightly brushed her skin, she became more turned on. I hope he makes a move. I want him so bad, she thought ignoring all the reasons she couldn't go there with him.

Finally finished, Maddie put some moisturizer on her skin and then reached for her glasses. "Okay, no making fun or laughing," she told him.

"I would never do that," Steve claimed.

Although her back was to him she knew he was smirking. She could hear it in his voice. "Yeah right," she said as she turned to face him, his hands hovering. When she turned to finally face him, he smirked and bit his lip. Her unsurety was quickly replaced by her dimpled smile. That mixed with her tortoise colored plastic glasses and her wavy hair wild, he couldn't control himself anymore. Desperately needing to kiss her in some way, he leaned forward and kissed her nose before picking her up. "Woah!" she laughed as she wrapped her arms around his neck. He felt his hair stand up as her fingertips lightly brushed the skin of his neck. If that little of a touch had such an effect on him, he couldn't wait to find out what it felt like when she touched other areas, on purpose. Don't go there, he thought as he felt his body respond to the idea.

As they neared the bed Maddie pointed to her closet door. "My tootsies are cold."

Steve changed courses and walked to her closet. "You are such a girl," he told her as they stood just inside the door, surrounded by rows and rows of clothes, shoes, and accessories.

"How would you really know for sure?" she flirted, her words slurring slightly.

Looking into her eyes he smirked, "Is that an invitation to find out?"

Yes, she thought, the clawing need growing louder. "Oh tequila, I curse you."

"I don't get it," he responded. "Why are you mad at tequila?"

Ignoring him she pointed to the right. "Over there!"

Walking down an aisle he asked, "Okay, where are your socks?"

Maddie's forehead crinkled in thought. "Oh wait. Just kidding. Over there." She pointed in the opposite direction as she giggled.

"This is a perfect example why you don't have a closet this size," Steve joked.

"Psshh. What do you know? I bet you wear the same pair of underwear in the jungle for a week," she teased.

"That is absolutely a lie. I change my underwear," Steve shook his head at the fact he was actually defending himself. He looked at her unable to keep from smiling.

She was laughing so hard her eyes were tearing up. "I wish Danny had just heard you defend your underwear habits to me. Or Pete. Why is this wasted on just me?"

"Because it only happens with you. I would never have responded to anyone else." Steve stopped looking around. "Where are the socks, Mads?"

"Right there! That drawer!" she pointed to the middle drawer in front of them.

He squatted down as he held her and she opened it, grabbing a pair of white socks. "Got 'em!" she cried happily, wrinkling her nose as she looked at him.

Steve sighed, shaking his head at her ability to affect him with a single expression. He'd never been like that with anyone else, but he couldn't think about that. He didn't want to risk going down a thought process that might freak him out.

As they approached the bed, he carefully lowered Maddie to it. She immediately flopped on her back, her legs dangling over the edge. "The boys can't say I'm a wuss. I proved I still got it!"

"Got what?" Steve asked grabbing the socks she'd abandoned next to her.

"I can drink with 'em! I mean, just cause I haven't had any alcohol in months, doesn't mean I'm lame and can't hang. I mean hello, I had more than they did tonight and I'm totally fine," she slurred.

"Yeah, totally fine," Steve mumbled sarcastically. "How much?" he asked grabbing her bare left foot.

Wrinkling her nose and biting her lip she stuck her hands in the air to count the drinks on her fingers. She unconsciously wiggled her toes and feet making his task harder. "Um, I dunno. Five or six shots and then the beers. I wasn't counting."

"Geez... Why'd you have so much tequila?" Steve tried again to put her sock on. He chuckled as her dark purple painted toes continued wiggling. "Stop wiggling your toes! I can't get the sock on."

Maddie lifted her head and flashed him a sheepish look. "Sorry."

With her foot finally still, Steve slid the white sock on. "Do I really need this? It's super itchy," Maddie randomly stated as she scratched wildly at the IV.

Steve immediately, but carefully, grabbed her bandaged hand. "Leave it alone. It'll stop. If it doesn't, I'll tape it differently. Just give it time and under NO circumstances are you to pull it out." Maddie looked at him mischievously. "I'm serious! That stays in," he demanded, the look on his face mirroring his words.

"Fine," she pouted as she pulled her hand from his.

Returning his attention to her bandaged right foot Steve tried to check the dressing. She wiggled her toes around to drive him crazy. He looked up at her intending to give her a stern look, but couldn't when he saw her smiling. It was so good to see her smile and to hear her laugh. He tried to look at it again, but when she continued moving he laughed and exclaimed, "Let me see it!" She stopped although her giggles continued. "So, why'd you take so many shots?" he asked as he inspected the bandage. Remembering the events of the evening and how much he'd hurt her, Maddie immediately quieted. Her behavior didn't go unnoticed by him as he slid the other sock over her bandaged foot, careful not to cause her pain. "Mads?"

Sighing, she answered, "Just to blow off steam."

"Why would you-" he began, but was interrupted by his cell phone.

Maddie grabbed it from where he'd laid it on the bed. "Here you go," she mumbled.

"Thanks," Steve replied. "McGarrett," he answered and then waited while the other person spoke. "Hey, Malia. I didn't recognize the number. Thanks for calling me back." After he'd changed he'd called Malia to tell her about Maddie hitting her head, but he'd had to leave a message.

While he spoke to her he folded his discarded clothes and put them back in his bag near the couch in the bedroom. Turning her head to see what he was doing, Maddie chuckled at his cleanly behavior. He glanced at her, furrowing his brow in silent question.

She flashed her dimples at him. "You're such a good little Navy boy." He smiled, unable to take his eyes away from her. He'd always loved her dimples, but now that their relationship was shifting they affected him even more than they had. Or have they always affected me like this and I didn't notice, he wondered before forcing his mind back to Malia. Going down this kind of a rabbit hole wasn't a good idea.

At a knock at the door, Maddie's eyes left him. "Come in!" she yelled much louder than she realized or intended.

"Well, you're still obviously drunk," Tina laughed as she approached Maddie.

"Tina!" Maddie sat up. "Woah, you're spinning," she whispered not wanting Steve to hear and worry. "What's up?"

"I just hung up with Johnny. I was able to arrange for you to go in later tomorrow. Give you a couple extra hours to sleep, and hopefully get rid of any hangover you might have."

"Good call. Thank you! Have I told you how much I appreciate you?" Maddie asked, putting her arm around her friend.

"Not today, but every other day," Tina laughed.

"Well, let me cover today. I don't know what I'd do without you. You're the best! Thank you!"

"You're welcome!" Tina smiled. "Who's he talking to?" she asked motioning to Steve with her head.

"Malia. They're talking about me," Maddie loudly whispered. Turning to him, she wrinkled her nose and said, "Which isn't very nice! I'm right here, ya know?"

Steve ignored her as he told Malia how Maddie hit her head again.

"It's sweet how he worries about you, Mads."

Maddie turned to her friend, her eyes wide. "Are you crazy? If you think it's so sweet let him worry about you."

"You know you'd be upset if he stopped."

Maddie looked at Tina, her face falling a little as she thought about it. "Yeah, I would. It is sweet. Just makes me feel bad... and guilty." She still couldn't believe she'd ignored his calls when he'd needed her the most. She wasn't sure she'd ever forgive herself for not being there for him when his dad died.

Picking up on the need for a topic change Tina said, "The band is going to start working on the new songs before you get there tomorrow. So, I need the music for them. Did you write the songs out?"

"Why, yes sir, I did!" Maddie smiled. "They're in the studio."

"I know I look tired, but do I really look like a guy? Seriously, it's that bad?" Tina joked.

Cracking up Maddie patted her friend's back. "Ma'am, I meant ma'am. Sorry."

Tina couldn't help but laugh. It was great getting to spend time with her sister and niece, but she'd really missed her friend. "Alright, I'll go get them. Thanks, Mads!"

"You'll have a hard time finding them. I'll go with you," Maddie whispered as she slowly began to stand. She held onto Tina's upper arm waiting for the dizziness to subside before sliding her feet into the pair of slippers she kept by her bed. "Okay, let's go while Mr. Worry Wart isn't paying attention."

Tina hesitated knowing Maddie need to stay off her right leg as much as possible before tomorrow. Before she could convince Maddie to stay, she felt her tug at her arm. "Okay," she said reluctantly.

Steve caught sight of the movement. "One second, Malia." He turned towards them. "Mads, where are you going?" The two slowed in the doorway.

"Be right back. Work stuff. Just gotta give her music for the morning," Maddie explained. "Don't worry." Before he could argue, the two disappeared into the hallway, Maddie limping.

"Crap." Hearing Malia's voice asking if everything was okay, he said, "Yeah. Sorry. Anyway, what were you saying I should watch out for?" He'd have to speed the call up to go catch them. He worried that if Maddie fainted, Tina wouldn't be able to catch her.

Although she refused to admit it, Maddie was in a lot of pain and the walk to the studio was a struggle. Tina tried to help her as much as she would let her, but it wasn't much. As they entered the piano room, Maddie sat on the bench and began to play. "Tina, I don't know how I'll sleep in the same bed as him tonight."

Tina sat next to her. "Why? What's wrong?"

"I forgot how turned on I get when I drink," Maddie admitted her eyes wide as she confided in her friend. Although her attention was on Tina she continued to play.

Tina chuckled at her predicament. "Uh oh... Vodka?"

"Oh no! No vodka! If I'd had vodka I'd have already ripped Steve's clothes off and just attacked him. Whether he liked it or not." Her eyes got bigger and her lips turned into an exaggerated frown before she continued. "I had tequila. Still makes me horny, but nothing compared to vodka."

"Oh yes, I've seen you when you've had vodka... I'm well aware of what it does to you," she laughed remembering a couple specific situations. "Everyone has their kryptonite. Mine just happens to be champagne."

"Good to know... I'll have to make sure I give you champagne around a certain bodyguard of mine," Maddie teased. Wiggling her eyebrows in a suggestive manner, she lightly elbowed her friend. Tina immediately shut her eyes and blushed. "I've gotta figure out a way to get you two together. Now I know maybe champagne is the answer."

"Don't you dare," Tina warned.

Again, Maddie wiggled her eyebrows a few more times before returning to her own situation. "But seriously, I shouldn't have had that tequila only for the reason that now I just want to jump him."

"Use it to your advantage. Hook up with him."

"I don't think he wants to."

"I find that really hard to believe. I'm pretty sure he wants to play with you... if you know what I mean?" It was now Tina's turn to wiggle her eyebrows.

"Oh my God! I have the best idea!" Maddie suddenly exclaimed, turning to the piano and immediately playing chords and humming along.

Tina knew she'd just been inspired and needed a minute. As she watched her friend play and scribble notes and words on a blank piece of sheet music, she was in awe of her.

Five minutes later, Maddie laughed and set the pencil down. "Okay, I'll finish the rest tomorrow... Anyway, what were you saying?"

"Just that I think you're wrong that he doesn't want to go there with you. Especially with the way he's been looking at you and taking care of you. There's major feelings there, Mads." Before Maddie could interrupt and argue, Tina continued. "And if you try and instigate something and he doesn't want to, you can always blame it on the alcohol, and then pretend to not remember tomorrow. Worth a try... Never know…" she finished in a sing-song voice.

Maddie thought about it, her mind returning to the movie theatre. But then Lori happened, she thought. Not wanting to talk about it anymore, she changed the subject. "I have a list of some things I need to get for a prank, but at a sex store. Would you mind going for me before the show?"

"I'm sorry?" Tina asked, shocked by the change in topic. Maddie only laughed. "I have so many questions... starting with what kind of prank will this be that I need to go to a sex store?" Maddie only laughed harder. "Is it a bra? Do you need a specific bra? Do they even have it in your size?" She cocked her head and smirked at her friend. "I mean... you're very blessed in that department. I don't know where you get them."

"Get what?" Steve asked, entering the room.

"I told you to stop doing that!" Maddie cried, holding her hand to her heart.

"Sorry," Steve said not looking even remotely apologetic. "You aren't sure where Maddie got what?" he asked Tina.

"Her boobs," she answered nonchalantly.

Maddie's face turned bright red. "Tina," she angrily whispered. Steve grinned at how embarrassed she was.

"I mean really, Maddie. You're so teeny and then wham! There they are!" Tina continued enjoying teasing her friend.

Although a bit uncomfortable with the conversation Steve was also finding it amusing. He wasn't going to lie; he'd noticed her breasts before. Tina was right, for someone as petite as Maddie, they were large.

Maddie's forehead wrinkled as she frowned. "Like bad too big?" she asked self-consciously as she crossed her arms against her chest.

"I don't think so, but then who better to ask than a man?" Tina turned to Steve, pure mischief on her face. "What do you think, Steve?"

His amusement died and his nervousness rose. "I don't know if I'm the best person to consult on this particular topic."

Why? Because I'm like your sister? Maddie immediately thought. She could kill Tina for doing this to her.

"Actually, you're the perfect person to ask. Come on, what do you think?"

"Tina," Maddie ground out, her face turning redder and redder. She wondered if it was possible for the floor to swallow her up. She glared at her long-time assistant and friend. I'm gonna kill her, she promised.

They're amazing and I can't wait to see them, Steve thought, but knew he couldn't say that. "No, they're not too big," he finally answered.

Tina flashed him a knowing look. "Perfect, don't you think?"

He met Tina's stare head on as he tried to keep from smirking. He knew exactly what she was doing and that she wouldn't let up until he answered. "Yes," he said quickly, not elaborating. Knowing it was past time the subject needed to be changed, he added, "Alright, Mads, time to sleep."

"Wait. I have to give Tina the music," she replied, avoiding his eyes.

"What've you been doing out here this whole time?" he asked.

Maddie finally met his eyes, a mischievous look on her face. "Inspiration hit."

"That look better mean you have a great song and not that you're gonna pull some stunt during the show," Steve told her.

"Of course," Maddie replied, purposely being vague.

Wanting to alleviate some of her embarrassment, Steve positioned himself behind her and placed his hands on her shoulders. "Grab the music and give it to Tina. It's getting late."

Maddie collected all the pages of music from the piano and quickly flipped through them, occasionally setting pages to the side. Once finished she handed a small stack to Tina. "Here you go, T."

"Perfect. I'll send them over to Ben before I go to sleep."

"Thanks." Steve took a step back so Maddie could stand although he stayed close.

"Dizzy?" he asked.

"Not too bad," she responded. Pain crossed her face when she carefully took a step.

"Let me carry you to the house," he immediately offered. When she shook her head he sighed, "Mads..." However, he didn't continue when she hooked her arm in his for support. As they exited the piano room, he could tell the walk out here had made the pain worse. Not only was she limping more, but she was much slower. At this pace it was going to take them at least twenty minutes just to get to the kitchen.

Wanting to give them some time to themselves, Tina announced, "I want to catch Ben before he heads to bed."

"Okie dokie. Thanks for everything, T. See you in the morning," Maddie said.

"No problem. Night!" Stopping a few feet in front of them, she turned and added, "Oh, and don't forget what I told you... It's worth a try." Tina winked at her friend before heading back to the house. She swore she could feel Maddie's glare on her back, making her giggle.

"What's worth a try?" Steve asked as they exited the front door of her studio.

Maddie's face quickly reddened and mumbled, "Nothing."

"Your face is the color of a fire truck," he chuckled. She looked up at his beat up face, clear strips everywhere, and glared. "You know, I've never seen you blush as much as you have today."

"Stop noticing things. It's annoying," she grumbled.

He belly laughed. "I'll do my best." With every step he felt Maddie lean against him more. "Come on. Let me just carry you."

"I can do it," she said quietly.

"I didn't say you couldn't. I know you can. But you don't have to right now. Let me just help you," Steve responded.

"I gotta do this. You won't be carrying me during rehearsals or the show." They continued their slow walk to the house while Steve rolled his eyes at her stubbornness.

"That's it," Steve whispered as he scooped her up when she paused and her eyes briefly fluttered closed.

"No, I can do it," she murmured, but instead of fighting him she leaned her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes.

"I know, baby," Steve whispered, kissing her forehead.

Arriving in her room Steve gently set her on the bed and pulled her slippers off before quickly going to use the bathroom. Just as he was finishing he heard his cell.

Maddie opened her eyes and looked around for the ringing object. Finally spotting it laying slightly behind her, she grabbed it, unintentionally catching sight of the screen. The name "Lori Weston" taunted her, effectively reminding her of her place in Steve's life.

"Here," Maddie mumbled as Steve walked out of the bathroom and approached.

"Thanks," he replied. He looked at the screen and then to Maddie who was staring at the ceiling. He was unsure of whether he should answer it. However, it was probably work related. "I'll be right back."

"Okay," Maddie replied trying to keep her disappointment and heartache from her voice.

Steve walked out of her bedroom shutting the door behind him. "Rude awakening," Maddie whispered to herself. But, at least Lori had called before she let tequila cloud her judgement and she'd hit on him and made an even bigger ass of herself. Deciding it was best to just get in bed and try and go to sleep, she pulled herself into a sitting position. An onslaught of nausea and dizziness hit her. "Please don't puke, please don't puke," she chanted as she pulled back the down comforter and blankets. Scooting up to the head of the bed, she slid in and shut off the light. Eyes closed, Maddie laid on her right side wishing things could go back to how they used to be. When she hadn't realized she was head over heels in love with Steve and there wasn't a psycho after her and threatening his life.

Steve had answered the phone as soon as he'd closed the bedroom door. "McGarrett" he greeted as he walked down the stairs and into the kitchen.

"Hey Steve, I'm sorry to bother you," Lori said.

"You're not bothering me. Is everything okay?" he asked.

"Yeah, I just," she began. "I was thinking about Maddie's stalker and was curious if you'd asked Tina about it."

"What do you mean?" Where is she going with this, he wondered as he leaned against the kitchen island, his legs outstretched and crossed in front of him. And this couldn't have waited until tomorrow?

"Well, I heard her talking about her new niece and how she'd been with her family for a couple months," Lori elaborated. "I was wondering if you'd asked her if she noticed anything different with Maddie before she left or if she remembered any sort of incident." She paused and when he didn't say anything she continued. "I know it's late, but I thought in case you hadn't you'd be able to ask her about it. I know they head to rehearsals early in the morning."

"I haven't had a chance to ask her about it, but I will. I also plan to ask Ryan," Steve answered as he glanced at the clock on the microwave. He was anxious to get back to Maddie. The last thing he needed was for her to get the wrong idea and start pushing him away again.

"Okay, great," Lori said. After a brief pause she changed the subject. "Thanks again for inviting me tonight. I had a great time with everyone."

Steve found the entire conversation odd. He didn't really buy that this was the reason behind the call, but instead worried she was just using it as an excuse to reach out. Maybe she didn't take the let down as well as she seemed to, he thought. "No problem," he returned before continuing, "Thanks for reaching out about the suggestion. I appreciate your help on this." Hoping to reiterate his earlier statement that they'd only be friends, he added, "I have to go. I left Maddie upstairs in bed and I need to get back to her."

Lori felt her chest tighten at his words. "Oh, okay, yeah, no problem. See you at work."

"See you then. Have a good night," he replied before hanging up. He sighed, worried that Lori was going to be a complication he really didn't need when he caught sight of the bag of fluid for Maddie. He grabbed it before taking the steps two at a time anxious to get back to her. Walking down the hall, he sighed and opened her bedroom door surprised by the darkness. Soundlessly he moved to the bed and reached his hand forward to the lamp on her nightstand making sure to flip it on the lowest brightness. The fact she didn't hide her face and make her little sleepy noises told him she wasn't really asleep. He assumed she'd gotten the wrong idea about his phone call. Carefully he hooked the saline bag to the IV and then rigged it to hang on her bed. Smirking, Steve bent forward and kissed her forehead. "Good night, beautiful," he whispered and turned off the lamp.

Maddie's heart sped up at the sweet gesture and endearment. Damn, she thought as the tingling feeling between her legs increased.

He had hoped she'd have opened her eyes when he said goodnight, but given how the barbeque went, he couldn't say he was surprised. After climbing in his side of the bed he found himself antsy, wishing she were in his arms. He stared at the ceiling while Maddie laid on her right side, her back to him. After five minutes he couldn't take it anymore. He'd been anxious to hold her all night. "I know you're awake," he said softly. She said nothing, so he reached over and began rubbing her back. Although the admission made him nervous, he knew he had to say it anyway. "Come here. I want to snuggle."

Oh, come on! It's like he knows I'm extra sensitive to his touch tonight, Maddie thought, loving the way he was rubbing her back.

When she hadn't given him any response after a few minutes he brought his arm back to his side and sighed. Deciding it was time to clarify a few things, Steve cleared his throat before softly saying, "Mads... I didn't sleep with Lori last night. Nor did I any other night. She kissed me and after a second I pulled away. That's all that happened."

Maddie was shocked. She definitely had thought they'd slept together especially since he hadn't answered his phone when Pete had called. Nervous, she continued to lay with her back to him, her heart racing. Should she say something? And, if so, what?

Steve was disappointed when she still said nothing. He didn't know what else he could say to her except things he didn't feel either were ready to talk about. Just as he was about to admit defeat and say goodnight, he felt the bed move. Before he knew it Maddie was scooting towards him. A huge smile broke out on his face and he used his right arm to pull her the rest of the way. "Now that's so much better," he sighed happily as he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her temple.

Maddie continued to remain silent, still unsure of what to say. However, she snuggled into him, breathing him 'd always loved the way he smelled. It had always calmed her. It was one of the reasons she'd been stealing his clothes.

After a few quiet minutes of lying in the dark, Steve spoke up. "You know, you could've just asked me instead of letting it bother you." She said nothing, too embarrassed. "Just so you know, there was no kiss goodnight or anything tonight. Barely a hug. I told her I wasn't interested in anything but friendship with her." He waited for some kind of response from her. "Are you really not going to say anything?" he asked as he rubbed her back with the hand connected to the arm she was lying on. With his other hand he began lightly rubbing the top of her right hand and forearm where it laid across his stomach.

He's torturing me, she thought as goosebumps covered her whole body. His touch was so gentle, so loving. Say something, Maddie. Anything, she told herself. "I dunno what to say," Maddie finally admitted shyly.

"She speaks! She's alive!" he joked before growing serious and asking, "Why didn't you just tell me why you were upset when I asked?"

"I'm too drunk for this conversation."

"No, you're not. In fact, you're just drunk enough. Honest, but coherent," he told her. "Now answer."

Maddie sighed, knowing he was right. "Because I was scared."

Steve furrowed his eyebrows in confusion. "Scared of what, Maddie?"

She paused afraid to answer. "Of a lot of things."

Steve reached over and flipped his nightstand light on. "Look at me," he ordered. Sighing, Maddie reluctantly tipped her head up to meet his eyes. "Talk to me. What kept you from telling me the truth?"

She looked away from him for a second before she met his eyes again. "Scared of the reaction."

"My reaction?"

She nodded, looking down. "Maddie... I don't know what's going on with us. And I don't want to overanalyze it. I think we owe it to ourselves to just go with the flow. However, you have to talk to me. We're going to have to learn to communicate better. I don't want to lose you." He paused for effect. "I can't lose you."

"You won't," Maddie quietly responded squeezing his abdomen for effect. She felt his right arm tighten around her body in response. Maddie sighed in contentment as she nuzzled against his chest.

Laughing, Steve said, "You've always been like a kitten or puppy when your sleepy."

"Are you calling me an animal?" she scoffed.

"Yeah," he joked. "You rub your face and head around as you try and get comfortable. You've done it since we were little."

She glanced up at him in the dark, shocked by his words. "You notice that?"

"Yeah," he replied quietly, starting to wonder if everyone hadn't been right all this time. That men only noticed small things like that if they had romantic feelings for the person.

The tingling between her legs increased and she suddenly blurted, "I need to go to the bathroom."

Steve chuckled, surprised by the change of topic. "Okay, let me help you." He threw back the blankets and sat up.

Not sure she could handle him touching her without jumping him, she quickly insisted, "I got it." Feeling his eyes on her, she fumbled as she clumsily unhooked the bag of fluid from her IV. She was grateful her back was to him because she was positive that her face was red and her hands were shaking. As soon as she was free from the bag, she stood, fighting the spinning room.

"You good?" Steve asked, watching her closely.

She cleared her throat nervously. "Yeah." Feeling like she could stay upright she hurried to the bathroom, her limp even more prominent than it had been a little while earlier. As soon as she closed the door behind her she slid slowly down the door. Get it together, she chastised. It wasn't just the effects of the tequila that had her running, but their conversation in general. If he knew she'd been upset about Lori then did he know she was in love with him? Had he figured it out, or had Joe told him? Crap, she thought as her eyes drifted shut in mortification before they flew back open. Wait, did he say that he told Lori he didn't want to pursue anything with her, she wondered, his words suddenly sinking in. Maddie swallowed hard, her nervousness ratcheting up a notch. She winced at the pain in her throat. Shit, I can't get sick. The show was already going to be nearly impossible to pull off. Knowing what she had to do, she clumsily got to her feet, the pain in her knee and foot excruciating. Since she'd told Steve she had to go to the bathroom, she quietly hobbled to the toilet and flushed it before going to the vanity. She flipped on the sink to mask the sound of her rummaging around in her bathroom bag she still hadn't unpacked fully. Once she found the prescription bottle she opened it and poured two pills in her hand and quickly threw them in her mouth and swallowed. Knowing Steve would lose it if he saw the pills she put the morning dose in her bottle of vitamins and the rest of the bottle safely tucked away in her makeup bag. Before she exited the safety of the bathroom she forced herself to take several deep breaths. Don't do anything stupid, she told herself. Just close your eyes and go to sleep. Just ignore his close proximity.

As she entered the bedroom Maddie noticed he'd turned his nightstand light off and saw he was exactly where she'd left him. Maybe he was asleep. It was probably better if he was as it would make it easier to not hit on him. Damn tequila, she thought as she hooked the bag of saline up to her IV. Trying to be as quiet as possible she slowly climbed back in bed and settled with her back once again to Steve.

Steve had been hoping she'd come back and snuggle with him, but he couldn't say he was surprised when she didn't. Knowing he needed to do something to further drive his point across, he took a deep breath and reached his right arm out, sliding it under her. His heartrate increased as he pulled her to him. He knew what he was about to do would change them and he couldn't keep from kind of panicking at the idea. Just remember what Joe said, he told himself. "Why were you all the way over there?"

"I thought you were asleep. I didn't want to wake you," Maddie nervously whispered.

Taking a deep breath Steve used his left hand and tipped her face up to look at him. Although it was dark he could still make out her blue eyes. Before she had a chance to ask him what he was doing his lips gently met hers.

To say she was shocked was an understatement. His lips lingered on hers as the fingers of his left hand gently caressed her cheek. He pulled away slightly, smiling at her. Maddie's eyes fluttered open and widened in surprise. Already missing the feel of her lips Steve closed the small distance and kissed her again. Once more his lips lingered before pulling away. More than anything he wanted to slide his hand into her hair before making his way down her body, but he knew they shouldn't rush. This was Maddie, and there was too much at stake.

Steve pressed his forehead against hers as he smiled at her. She knew what he was wordlessly saying and she couldn't have been happier. However, she wasn't thinking about why this was a bad idea. She wasn't thinking about the threat to Steve. She was only thinking about how much she loved him and wanted this. So, she let herself enjoy it. Biting her bottom lip Maddie shyly smiled back. Slowly it grew and before he knew it she was flashing her dimples. He shook his head his forehead still against hers as they gazed into one another's eyes. "Those dimples," he whispered before kissing her nose and then her forehead. "Goodnight, Mads."

She rested her head on his chest and snuggled into him as he pulled her closer. "Night, Steve." It was only minutes before they both fell into a contented sleep.

"SON OF A BITCH! She's MINE!" he screamed as he punched his hand through the wall next to him. He stared at the screen of them sleeping together. He hit rewind and watched them kiss again. "She knew better! I told her what would happen if she had any contact with him," he seethed.

He quickly stood and walked to his bedroom closet. He changed into black cargo pants and a black t-shirt, slipping on a pair of gloves of the same color. Grabbing the large, filled, black duffel bag he headed out to his truck. "Well, enjoy tomorrow you bitch," he mumbled to himself as he started the car and drove in the direction of the arena.