Firsts

by Sidewards Dog

These stories captures the essence of Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles's bond and the significance of each "first" they experience together. From their first date to other milestones throughout their lives and relationship.

5. First Proposal

Jane Rizzoli leaned against the worn wooden bar of the Dirty Robber, nursing her drink as she watched the lively atmosphere of the place. It was a rare moment of respite from the chaos of their jobs, and she found herself seeking solace in the familiar company of her partner, Vince Korsak.

Korsak settled onto the stool next to her, his grizzled features softened by the warm glow of the dimly lit bar. He caught Jane's gaze and offered her a small, knowing smile before signaling the bartender for a drink of his own.

"Long day, huh?" Korsak remarked, his voice carrying the weight of years spent in the trenches of the Boston Police Department.

"Yeah," Jane sighed, taking a sip of her drink. "Sometimes it feels like we're fighting a losing battle."

It was their ritual after a long day of solving crimes, a chance to unwind and decompress.

Jane took a sip of her beer, glancing around the bar before turning her attention back to Korsak. "You know, I've been thinking about something lately."

Korsak raised an eyebrow, his grizzled features reflecting years of experience. "What's on your mind, kid?"

Jane paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts. "How do you know when someone is the one? Like, the person you're supposed to spend the rest of your life with?"

Korsak leaned back in his seat, contemplating her question. "Well, that's a tough one, Jane. There's no magic formula or checklist, you know? But there are a few things to look out for."

"Like what?" Jane leaned in, eager to hear his wisdom.

"First off, it's about compatibility. You and the other person just... fit. You complement each other's strengths and weaknesses, and you're able to be yourselves around each other without judgment."

Jane nodded, absorbing his words. "What else?"

"Trust," Korsak continued. "You gotta trust each other completely. Trust that they'll be there for you, support you, no matter what. And you gotta be willing to do the same for them."

"Yeah, I can see that," Jane murmured, swirling the condensation on her glass.

"And then there's love," Korsak said softly. "Real, deep, unconditional love. The kind that goes beyond attraction or infatuation. It's a feeling you can't quite put into words, but you know it when you feel it."

Jane's gaze softened as she looked at Korsak. "Do you think you've found that kind of love, Vince?"

Korsak smiled, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. "Yeah, I do. Took me a while to figure it out, but when you know, you know."

A moment of silence passed between them, the weight of Korsak's words hanging in the air. Jane felt a sense of comfort wash over her, knowing that she could always count on him for guidance, both in their work and in matters of the heart.

"Thanks, Vince," she said finally, breaking the silence. "I needed to hear that."

Korsak reached across the table, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. "Anytime, kid. Anytime. Why the question though may I ask?"

"No reason" Jane was quick to respond "Just too much time on my hand thinking about things I guess." Jane finished the last pull of her beer. "I'm gonna head home, Vince. I'm beat."

"See ya later" Korsak said as she walked towards the door.

— — —

The conversation with Korsak at the Dirty Robber replayed in her mind, his words echoing in the stillness of her room. She couldn't shake the questions that had been stirred within her.

How do you know when someone is the one?

It was a question that had been lurking in the recesses of her mind for some time now, but tonight, it seemed to loom larger than ever. She turned onto her side, pulling the covers up to her chin as she stared at the ceiling, lost in her thoughts.

Korsak's words had resonated with her, each one a gentle nudge toward understanding. Compatibility, trust, love... they all sounded so simple in theory, yet in practice, they felt like elusive mysteries waiting to be unraveled.

She thought about Casey, her ex-fiancé, and the tumultuous journey their relationship had taken. They had shared good times, laughter, and love, but in the end, it hadn't been enough. There had been something missing, a piece of the puzzle that just didn't fit.

Then she thought about her relationship so far with Maura and how all of those values compatibility, trust and more importantly love all seemed to be a part of that relationship.

She never had thought that she would be on this side of the proposal to marriage. She had just assumed someone probably Casey would ask, and she would just agree. However this was different the question, and how it was asked was now very important to her.

She racked her brain remembering how hard it was to choose the perfect first date with Maura, now how hard it was going to be to figure out the best way to propose. One thing she knew for sure was this idea needed to stay to herself for right now. She needed to work out many many more details before anyone could find out what she was planning. This needed to be special. Maura deserved special.

Jane stared at the ceiling, her mind still buzzing with thoughts of love and commitment. As she pondered the perfect proposal to Maura, her thoughts danced through various scenarios, each one more romantic and heartfelt than the last.

She imagined a quiet evening at home, with soft music playing in the background and candlelight casting a warm glow over the room. They would be curled up on the couch, Maura nestled against her side, their fingers intertwined as they shared stories and laughter.

Then, when the moment felt just right, Jane would reach into her pocket and pull out a small velvet box, her heart pounding with nervous anticipation. She would take Maura's hand in hers, her voice steady but filled with emotion as she poured her heart out, telling her how much she meant to her and how she wanted to spend the rest of her life by her side.

And as she opened the box to reveal the ring, a simple yet elegant symbol of their love, she would watch Maura's eyes light up with joy and surprise. Tears of happiness would glisten in her eyes as she whispered a heartfelt "yes," sealing their commitment to each other with a tender kiss.

But Jane also considered more adventurous proposals, like a romantic getaway to their favorite beach or a hot air balloon ride at sunset. Or perhaps something more intimate, like a picnic in the park surrounded by nature's beauty, where they could escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and simply be together.

Jane realized that sleep might not come so easily tonight with all of these thoughts rolling around in her head.

Jane stumbled into the precinct, her eyes heavy with sleep and her mood as sour as a lemon. She rubbed her temples, trying to shake off the exhaustion that weighed her down like a lead blanket. Every step felt like a battle against gravity, and the incessant chatter of her coworkers grated on her already frayed nerves.

"Morning, Jane!" Angela chirped, her voice far too cheerful for Jane's liking.

"Mornin'," Jane grumbled in response, barely mustering the energy to lift her head.

Angela frowned, sensing Jane's foul mood. "Rough night?"

"You could say that," Jane muttered, collapsing into her chair with a defeated sigh.

Korsak approached, his brow furrowed with concern. "You alright, kid? You look like you haven't slept in days."

Jane waved him off, too tired to summon a witty retort. "Just couldn't shut off my brain last night, that's all."

Korsak nodded sympathetically, patting her shoulder in a gesture of understanding. "Happens to the best of us. Maybe grab a coffee before we dive into the day?"

Jane grunted in agreement, dragging herself to the break room with all the enthusiasm of a sloth on a Monday morning. She poured herself a cup of the strongest brew she could find, hoping it would jolt her out of her foggy stupor.

As she sipped her coffee, she felt the caffeine slowly start to work its magic, clearing away the cobwebs of sleep and restoring a semblance of coherence to her thoughts. She glanced around at her coworkers, their energy infectious despite her initial reluctance to join the land of the living.

With a resigned sigh, Jane squared her shoulders and pushed herself to her feet. "Alright, let's get this show on the road."

Maura's presence was a welcome interruption to Jane's bleary-eyed morning. She looked up from her desk, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips as Maura approached.

"Hey, Maura," Jane greeted, trying to muster some enthusiasm despite her lingering fatigue. "What brings you by?"

Maura's expression was a mix of concern and determination as she perched on the edge of Jane's desk. "I wanted to remind you that I'll be away for a few days. There's a case in New York that requires my expertise, and they've requested my assistance."

Jane's eyebrows shot up in surprise, the fog of sleep beginning to lift as she processed the news. "New York? That's unexpected. When do you leave?"

"Tomorrow morning," Maura replied, her tone matter-of-fact. "I've already made arrangements for Bass to be taken care of while I'm away, so you don't need to worry about him."

Jane nodded, feeling a pang of sadness at the thought of Maura being away. "Right, of course. Just... be careful, okay? New York can be a dangerous place."

Maura smiled reassuringly, reaching out to squeeze Jane's hand. "I'll be fine, Jane. I promise to take all necessary precautions."

Jane returned the squeeze, her worry evident in the tightness of her grip. "Just... keep me updated, okay? I don't want to spend the whole time you're gone imagining worst-case scenarios."

Maura chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with affection. "I'll do my best to check in regularly. And who knows? Maybe I'll uncover some groundbreaking forensic techniques that will revolutionize our work here."

Jane rolled her eyes playfully, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Yeah, yeah, just don't forget about us little people when you become a big-shot forensic expert."

Maura laughed, standing up from the desk. "I could never forget about you, Jane. You're stuck with me, whether you like it or not."

As Jane pulled up to Maura's house, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in the pit of her stomach. The thought of Maura leaving for New York weighed heavily on her mind, a constant reminder of the dangers that lurked beyond the safety of their familiar city streets.

Maura emerged from the front door, her suitcase in hand and a determined look on her face. Despite her own reservations, Jane couldn't help but admire Maura's bravery in the face of uncertainty.

"Hey," Jane greeted, forcing a smile as she leaned over to open the passenger side door. "Ready to go?"

Maura nodded, her expression a mix of excitement and apprehension. "As ready as I'll ever be."

Jane glanced at Maura's suitcase, noticing the slight tremor in her hands as she struggled to lift it into the trunk. Without hesitation, Jane stepped forward, reaching out to take the suitcase from her grasp.

"Let me get that," Jane said, her voice gentle yet reassuring. "You just focus on getting there in one piece."

Maura offered a grateful smile, her eyes softening with gratitude. "Thank you, Jane. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Jane shrugged, trying to downplay the significance of her gesture. "Just doing what any good girlfriend would do."

As they drove toward the airport, the silence between them was punctuated only by the hum of the engine and the occasional sound of traffic passing by. Each passing mile brought them closer to their destination, and Jane couldn't help but feel a sense of dread creeping in at the thought of saying goodbye.

When they finally arrived at the airport, Jane parked the car and turned to face Maura, her heart heavy with emotion. "Well, this is it."

Maura nodded, her gaze lingering on Jane's face as if committing every detail to memory. "Thank you for driving me, Jane. It means more to me than you'll ever know."

Jane reached out to squeeze Maura's hand, her grip firm and reassuring. "Anytime, Maur. Just promise me you'll be careful out there, okay? I don't want to hear about you getting into any trouble."

Maura smiled, a glint of mischief in her eyes. "I'll do my best to stay out of trouble. But you know me, I can't make any promises."

Jane chuckled, feeling the weight of their impending separation lift ever so slightly. "Yeah, I know you too well, Maur."

With a final embrace, they said their goodbyes, each reluctant to let go of the other's presence. And as Jane watched Maura disappear into the bustling crowd of travelers, she couldn't help but feel a sense of longing for the comfort and security of her friend's company.

As Jane sat at her desk, her mind wandered to Maura and the upcoming proposal she had been mulling over. With Maura out of town, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to discreetly find out her ring size without raising suspicion.

Jane glanced around the precinct, making sure no one was paying attention to her. With a quick glance at her computer screen to ensure no incriminating evidence of her plans was visible, she pulled up a blank document and pretended to type, all the while formulating her strategy.

Suddenly, inspiration struck. Maura had a had many rings at her house. There was no way she would have taken them all to New York. All she needed to do was stop by the house and causally borrow a ring, stop by a jeweler to have it sized, then return the ring all before Maura retuned home.

The only flaw she could force in her plan was that she wasn't sure how long Maura would be out of town so she needed to act quickly.

With a newfound sense of purpose, Jane began to hurriedly finish the stack of paperwork on her desk all while hoping she didn't catch another case this evening. She would drop by Maura's empty house tonight and put the plan into action.

After a few more hours of paperwork and fortunately no new crime scenes Jane grabbed her coat and headed out for the evening.

Taking a deep breath, Jane got out of her car and approached the front door. She unlocked it with the spare key Maura had given her years ago, feeling a pang of nostalgia as she stepped into the familiar surroundings.

The house was quiet, the only sound the soft hum of appliances and the occasional creak of floorboards beneath her feet. Jane made her way to Maura's bedroom, her eyes scanning the room for her jewelry box.

Jane realized she was moving through the house sneakily even though no one was home. She paused and laughed a little to herself with this notion.

Jane opened one of the drawers and found a multitude of rings. Some looked like they may be worth more than her salary. She made a mental note to not take any of those, just in case. After comparing a few to see if they were in fact the same size she took one with a much smaller stone and put it in a velvet box she found in her dresser drawer to transport the ring safely.

With the first part of her mission accomplished, Jane made her way back to the living room, feeling a mixture of relief and excitement. Armed with Maura's ring, she was one step closer to making her proposal dreams a reality.

Jane made her way back into the kitchen where she stopped to open the fridge looking for any leftovers. All of this sneaking had made her hungry. She placed the small velvet box on the counter as she went to reheat the dinner from a few nights before she and Maura had shared.

She froze as she heard footsteps approaching. This was a part of the plan she failed to think about. Angela's voice echoed through the hallway, pulling her attention away from her exit.

"Jane? Is that you?" Angela's tone was curious, tinged with surprise.

Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Jane turned back toward the kitchen, plastering on a casual smile as she greeted Angela. "Hey, Ma. What brings you here?"

Angela entered the kitchen, her eyes narrowing as she took in Jane's slightly guilty expression. "I live her Jane. I could ask you the same thing. What are you doing here?"

Jane shrugged nonchalantly, trying to play it cool. "Oh, you know, just stopping by to check on things. Thought I'd grab a snack before heading back to my apartment."

Angela arched an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced by Jane's explanation. "Uh-huh. And what's with the deer-in-the-headlights look?"

Jane shifted uncomfortably under Angela's scrutiny, her mind racing for a plausible excuse. "Just... lost in thought, I guess. You know how it is."

In that moment Jane noticed the small velvet box sitting on the counter. Panic ran through her as she clumsily began to slide her body in front of that part of the counter while not dropping eye contact with Angela.

Angela's expression softened, her eyes filled with concern. "Everything okay, Jane? You seem a little... off."

Jane forced a smile, hoping to reassure Angela despite the knot of anxiety tightening in her chest. "Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Just... preoccupied, I guess. I miss Maura even though she just left this morning and then I autopiloted here after work and just decided to eat while I was here."

Jane managed to casually put her hand behind her snagging the box and securing it in her jacket pocket all the while hoping Angela didn't see anything while she was busy making tea.

Angela stopped and studied Jane for a moment longer, her gaze searching for any sign of deception. Finally, she nodded, apparently satisfied with Jane's response. "Alright, well, if you need to talk about anything, you know where to find me."

Jane nodded gratefully, relieved that Angela hadn't pressed the issue further. "Thanks, Ma. I appreciate it. I'm really tired so I am just going to head home. Hope you have a great night"

Jane quickly made an exit after a slight hug to Angela and darted to her car.

After the door shut Angela turned around to see the leftovers still on the counter. She ran to the door yelling "Jane" but only saw Jane's tail lights as she backed out of the driveway and sped away.

Angela closed the door and then said "Lord knows what that girl is up to now."

Jane returned to her desk at the precinct the next morning with a renewed sense of purpose. She glanced around, ensuring no prying eyes were watching her every move, before carefully retrieving the ring from her pocket.

Her fingers traced the smooth metal of the ring. With a determined nod, Jane opened her desk drawer and tucked the ring away in a discreet corner, hidden from view but easily accessible.

Just as Jane settled back into her work, the familiar sound of her phone ringing pierced the quiet of the precinct. She glanced at the caller ID, noting the number belonged to the precinct dispatcher. With a curious frown, she picked up the phone.

"Detective Rizzoli," she answered, her voice a mix of professionalism and curiosity.

"Jane, we've got a new case," the dispatcher's voice crackled over the line. "There's been a body found outside of a store downtown. The owner reported gunshots then ran out to find the victim."

"I'm on it," Jane replied, her mind already racing with possibilities. "Send me the details, and I'll head over there right away."

With a quick exchange of information, Jane hung up the phone and sprang into action. She gathered her things and headed for the door, her senses heightened by the adrenaline rush of a new case.

Jane arrived at the crime scene outside the clothing store, her senses immediately alert as she took in the bustling scene before her. Yellow police tape cordoned off the area, and officers moved about, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.

Approaching the scene, Jane spotted Korsak conferring with a uniformed officer near the entrance of the store. She made her way over, her eyes scanning the area for any clues that might lead them to the perpetrator.

"Hey, Korsak," Jane greeted, her voice firm and authoritative as she joined her partner.

Korsak turned to greet her, his expression grave as he filled her in on the details of the case. "Hey, Jane. We've got a homicide on our hands. Victim's name is Emily Harris, found dead in the alley behind the store. Looks like a mugging gone wrong."

Jane nodded, her mind already racing with possibilities as she surveyed the crime scene. She approached the body, careful not to disturb any potential evidence as she studied the scene for clues.

Emily Harris lay sprawled on the ground, her lifeless eyes staring sightlessly up at the sky. Jane noted the bruises on her neck and the torn fabric of her purse, evidence of a struggle that had turned deadly.

As she examined the surrounding area, Jane noticed a trail of blood leading away from the body, disappearing into the darkness of the alley. Could it be the killer's escape route?

With a determined set to her jaw, Jane followed the trail, her instincts honed by years of experience guiding her every step. She knew that solving this case would require patience, perseverance, and a keen eye for detail. But she was ready for the challenge, ready to bring justice to Emily Harris and closure to her grieving loved ones.

Jane and Korsak set to work methodically combing through the crime scene for any potential leads. They interviewed witnesses, reviewed surveillance footage, and gathered physical evidence with meticulous care.

As they sifted through the details of the case, Jane's mind raced with possibilities. She jotted down notes and theories in her notebook, her determination fueling her every move.

"Korsak, let's start by talking to the store employees," Jane suggested, her voice sharp with focus. "They might have seen something that could help us piece together what happened."

Korsak nodded in agreement, his experienced gaze scanning the area for any sign of potential witnesses. Together, they approached the store manager and began their inquiries.

After hours of interviews and investigation, Jane and Korsak finally caught a break. A witness came forward with a crucial piece of information: they had seen a suspicious-looking individual lurking near the alley behind the store around the time of the murder.

With this new lead in hand, Jane and Korsak sprang into action, working tirelessly to track down the suspect. They canvassed the neighborhood, questioning residents and following up on any potential leads that might help them identify the killer.

The new case had taken up so much of Jane's time she realized it had been a day since she had talked to Maura.

After the long day of investigating Emily Harris's murder, Jane found a moment to step aside and make a phone call. With the case still fresh in her mind, she knew she needed to check in with Maura, both to update her on the day's events and to hear her reassuring voice.

With a sigh of relief, Jane pulled out her phone and dialed Maura's number, her heart pounding with anticipation as she waited for her to pick up.

"Hello?" Maura's voice sounded on the other end, a welcome sound that instantly lifted Jane's spirits.

"Maura, hey," Jane greeted, her voice tinged with exhaustion but filled with warmth. "It's me."

"Jane, is everything alright?" Maura's concern was evident in her tone, and Jane felt a rush of gratitude for the woman who always seemed to know just what to say.

"Yeah, yeah, everything's fine," Jane reassured her, her words echoing through the quiet of the precinct. "Just wanted to check in and see how you're doing."

Maura's response was immediate, her voice calm and soothing as she spoke. "I'm doing well, thank you for asking. How about you? How was your day?"

Jane paused for a moment, contemplating how much to share about the case without burdening Maura with the gruesome details. "It was... busy. We had a homicide downtown, but we're making progress on the investigation."

Maura listened intently, her empathy evident in every word. "I'm sorry to hear that. If there's anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to ask."

Jane smiled, grateful for Maura's unwavering support. "Thanks, Maur. I appreciate it. But for now, I just wanted to hear your voice. It helps."

There was a brief pause on the line before Maura responded, her voice soft with affection. "I'm glad I could be here for you, Jane. You mean the world to me."

A warmth spread through Jane's chest at Maura's words, filling her with a sense of comfort and reassurance. "You mean the world to me too, Maur. I'll see you when you get back, okay?"

"Count on it," Maura replied, her voice filled with promise. "Take care of yourself, Jane. I'll talk to you soon."

After two days of working the case and hitting a slight stalemate in locating the suspect Jane wanted to capitalize on an hour of free time to head to the jeweler. She retrieved the velvet box from her desk discreetly and then made her way to a jeweler not far from Maura's Beacon Hill home.

When Jane arrived she took a minute to take in everything before her. She admitted to herself this was actually a bit overwhelming but she approached the desk anyway.

"Hi, how can I help you" the kind voice of the jeweler behind the counter said to Jane.

"I was looking to find an engagement ring for my girlfriend and I managed to snag one of her rings to get her ring size. Could you help me with that?" She said as she pulled the velvet box from her jacket pocket and handed it over to the gentleman behind the counter.

"Certainly, while I size the ring would you like to look around to see if anything peaks your interest. By the way I am Gary." He man said as she began to grab his tools.

"Thanks Gary. I'm Jane." Jane stated as she started to look around.

"Well this is an exquisite ring, Jane and your girlfriend wears a size 7 ring." Gary said walking towards Jane at the opposite end of the counter. He handed the velvet box back to Jane. "Do you see anything you like?"

"Honestly I don't know where to start. This is honestly a bit overwhelming." She said as she gestured her hands toward all the cabinets of jewelry.

Gary let out a slight chuckle "Yes, there are a lot of options. Can I ask you a few questions to see if I can help you narrow it down?" Jane nodded and Gary continued "When you picture proposing can you picture the ring?"

"I haven't really be able to picture the ring. I feel like I need the ring to craft the proposal if that makes any sense." Jane said as she looked down into the cabinet.

"That makes perfect sense" Gary replied and then continued with the questions. "Have you and your girlfriend every discussed what you would want your engagement ring to look like?"

"We actually had a short conversation at work one day, before we were dating coincidentally. She wanted the ring to be gorgeous but still be able to wear her exam gloves with it own. She is a doctor so that is an every day occurrence. Maybe have the stones a bit more inlayed into the ring?" Jane said trying to remember all of the details of the conversation she and Maura had.

"That's good, we can start with that" Gary said walking towards another counter and unlocking it with his key. "What do you want your engagement ring to say to your girlfriend?" Gary stated as he began to pull some rings out of the cabinet.

"Well obviously please marry me." Jane laughed nervously "but also we are in this together and you will never have to face anything else alone." Jane looked up at some of the rings Gary was holding.

Gary sighed and then said, "Final question, describe your fiancé to me, Jane."

Jane paused for a moment, closed her eyes and pictured Maura then began "She is the most beautiful woman in the room and not just with her physical beauty with her soul also. She is the type of person to literally give a kidney to an almost stranger simply because they needed it. Just the smell of her perfume causes my heart to flutter and when she looks at me I feel like I can all of sudden be this better version of myself. I want to spend the rest of my life getting to know every molecule in her soul and never letting her feel unwanted or unloved." Jane opened her eyes and looked at Gary who was just standing there listening intently.

"Right then" Gary started walking around the counters grabbing a ring or two from each cabinet and as he worked "If you say anything like what you just said during your proposal I am sure she will say yes."

Jane blushed a bit and bit her lip as she watched Gary work.

When Gary returned there were 10 rings in front of Jane. She began to study each one gorgeous in their own right yet different in many ways.

"Ok, so for this ring here it is a traditional diamond in a princess cut but slightly inlayed into the white gold band. Surrounding it are some smaller diamonds that drift down the band." Gary paused

"I think this wouldn't work under the exam glove" Jane put the ring back down and picked up the second.

"This is a triple engagement ring with a blue sapphire and two diamond set, symbolizing the past, present and the future. The blue sapphire represents loyalty to each other." Gary paused

Jane held her gaze on the second ring for a moment longer. "I like the meaning but I think the ring should be a bit more special." Jane stated looking back up at Gary.

Gary smiled and then described the third ring Jane pulled up in her hand. "This is a half eternity ring with the stones fitting closely nestled together. This has a moonstone in the middle of it and diamonds flowing down the band on the sides. The moonstone represents your love will also a lifetime." Gary looked toward Jane

"I like the stone but I think the band needs to be a bit more simple." Jane sighed as she placed it back on the counter.

"This has a blue topaz stone symbolizing peace and tranquility, loyalty and eternal love. This is set on a double gold band." Gary held the next ring to her.

Jane shook her head and he placed it back down.

Before Gary could begin on the next ring in front of Jane she interjected "I like parts of each of these rings just not together. Would it be possible to get a ring made with the components I like?"

"Certainty show me how you want the ring to look."Gary stopped looking attentively at Jane

"I like the three stone set up, but would like the first stone to and emerald cut moonstone in the middle with a blue topaz and blue sapphire on either side emerald cut also. That way the ring represents our past, present and future and displays that our love will last a lifetime and be eternal and also my loyalty to her." Jane looked picking up the ring with the moonstone watching it change as the light hit if differently.

"May I make a small suggestion?" Gary asked grabbing a pen and paper.

"Certainly" Jane replied eager to hear his advice.

"Let's make it a 5 stone setting with the blue sapphires on either end, blue topaz on each side of the moon stone. The five stone engagement ring symbolizes love, trust, friendship, loyalty, and commitment. Also a platinum band for the ring which will be very durable and last a lifetime." Gary said as he sketched a rough layout on paper for Jane.

"That's perfect!" Jane's smile went from ear to ear. "Now's the part where you tell me it's a million dollar ring and I say well shucks guess I am going to have to give her that drawing." Jane joked.

Gary laughed also "Nope, it should be very manageable and in line with the average cost of the rings I have shown you."

"I just thought I would be getting the ring size today not figuring out the whole darn thing. Thanks Gary, I really appreciate all the help and patience you gave me today."

"Anytime I will take the deposit and call you when the ring is ready. Shouldn't be to long thought." Gary replied as he collected the deposit.

As Jane's phone buzzed with an incoming call, she quickly glanced at the screen and smiled as she saw Maura's name flashing across it. With a sense of anticipation, she answered the call.

"Hey, Maura," Jane greeted warmly, her voice tinged with excitement. "What's up?"

"Hi, Jane," Maura replied, her voice echoing through the line with a hint of weariness. "I just wanted to let you know that I'll be arriving back in town tomorrow morning, and I'll need to be picked up from the airport."

Jane's heart skipped a beat at the news, her smile widening at the thought of being reunited with Maura after her time away. "Of course, Maur. Consider it done. What time does your flight arrive?"

Maura checked her itinerary before responding. "My flight is scheduled to land at 10:00 a.m. I'll send you the details so you know where to pick me up."

"Got it," Jane confirmed, already mentally rearranging her schedule to accommodate the pickup. "I'll be there bright and early to welcome you back."

"Thank you, Jane," Maura said gratefully, her voice filled with warmth. "I'm looking forward to seeing you."

"Me too, Maur," Jane replied, her heart swelling with affection. "Travel safe, okay?"

With a final exchange of goodbyes, Jane ended the call, feeling a sense of anticipation building in the pit of her stomach. Tomorrow couldn't come soon enough, and she couldn't wait to be reunited with Maura after her time away.

After ending the call with Maura, Jane's mind shifted back to the case they had been working on before the interruption. With a renewed focus, she made her way back to the precinct, eager to check on the progress of the investigation into Emily Harris's murder.

As she entered the bustling precinct, Jane's eyes scanned the room, searching for Korsak or any of her fellow detectives who might have updates on the case. Spotting Korsak at his desk, she made her way over to him, her steps quickening with each stride.

"Hey, Korsak," Jane greeted, her voice filled with determination as she approached her partner. "Any updates on the Harris case?"

Korsak glanced up from his paperwork, his expression grave as he met Jane's gaze. "Not much yet, Jane. We're still following up on leads and gathering evidence. It's slow going, but we're making progress."

Jane nodded, her mind already racing with possibilities as she considered their next steps. "Okay, keep me posted. I want to stay on top of this one."

"Will do," Korsak assured her, his tone firm with resolve. "We'll crack this case, Jane. I have no doubt about it."

Jane sat back down at her desk momentarily removing the small velvet box from her jacket and placing it her desk drawer. She would return it to Maura's tonight and complete the entire mission.

As the hours wore on still searching for her suspect, Korsak told everyone to call it a night. The search would resume in the morning but everyone needed a few hours of sleep. Jane initially protested but Korsak pulled rank and sent her home.

Jane discreetly grabbed the velvet box, slid it in her pocket and headed toward Maura's house. When she pulled up she noticed all the lights dark in both the guest and the main house as she slowly ambled towards the front door. With fatigue washing over her it took two tries to get her key in the door. Once inside she locked the door behind her resigned to just sleep here fearing she wouldn't make it back to her apartment if she tried to drive any further.

As Jane made her way into Maura's bedroom she removed her shoes and shirt stripping down to her t-shirt and pants. She slid the ring back into the jewelry box and the velvet box to it's previous location. She stumbled back towards the bed removing her pants before slipping into bed in just her boy shorts.

She as asleep before her head hit the pillow.

After what felt like mere minutes Jane was awakened to her cell phone ringing. Slightly disorientated from not being in her apartment, it took a few seconds to realize she had stayed at Maura's house.

Jane looked over at the clock as it said 6AM. She had slept for 3 hours. As she answered her phone her head fell back into the pillow. "Rizzoli"

Dispatch relayed they had a location on her suspect and she sat straight up informing she them she was on her way. She dressed quickly and ran out the house remembering to lock the door behind her.

With the suspect holed up in a nearby apartment building, Jane and Korsak wasted no time in springing into action. They approached the building cautiously, their senses heightened by the adrenaline coursing through their veins.

"Stay sharp, Korsak," Jane murmured, her voice low as they made their way up the stairs. "This guy could be armed and dangerous."

Korsak nodded in agreement, his grip tightening on his weapon as they reached the door to the suspect's apartment. Jane felt her phone vibrate but silenced it to focus on the task at hand. With a quick nod to each other, they burst through the door, ready to apprehend the suspect.

But to their surprise, the apartment was empty. The suspect was nowhere to be found.

"Damn it!" Jane cursed, frustration bubbling up inside her as she surveyed the room. "He must have slipped out while we were on our way here."

Korsak's jaw tightened with determination as he scanned the room for any sign of the suspect's whereabouts. "We'll find him, Jane. We just need to keep searching."

With renewed resolve, Jane and Korsak began to search the apartment, scouring every corner and crevice for any clue that might lead them to the suspect's location. But despite their efforts, the trail seemed to grow colder with each passing moment.

"He can't have gone far," Jane muttered, her frustration mounting with each empty room they searched. "We need to widen the search area. He could be anywhere by now." Jane's phone vibrated again but she silenced it again in an attempt to focus.

Korsak nodded in agreement, his expression grim as he considered their options. "I'll call for backup and have them canvass the area. We'll find him, Jane. We just need to keep pushing."

With that, Korsak made the call for backup, his voice firm and resolute as he issued orders to his fellow officers. Jane stood by his side, her eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of movement, her determination unwavering despite the setback.

As backup arrived and joined the search, Jane and Korsak led the efforts to track down the elusive suspect. They expanded their search radius, combing through nearby streets, alleyways, and buildings with relentless determination.

Every lead, every tip, and every sighting was followed up on with meticulous care. They interviewed witnesses, reviewed surveillance footage, and coordinated with neighboring precincts in their pursuit of the suspect.

Hours passed, the sun sinking low on the horizon as the search continued into the night. Jane's muscles ached with exhaustion, her mind buzzing with adrenaline as she pushed herself to keep going.

"We can't give up, Korsak," Jane insisted, her voice hoarse with fatigue but filled with determination. "We're close, I can feel it."

Korsak nodded in agreement, his eyes reflecting the same steely resolve. "We'll find him, Jane. We just need to keep pushing."

And push they did. They combed through every inch of the neighborhood, leaving no stone unturned in their quest to bring the suspect to justice. With each passing moment, their determination grew stronger, fueled by the knowledge that they were one step closer to achieving their goal.

Finally, just when it seemed like all hope was lost, a breakthrough occurred. A witness came forward with a crucial tip that led them to a rundown apartment building on the outskirts of town.

With hearts pounding and adrenaline coursing through their veins, Jane and Korsak approached the building, their weapons drawn and their senses on high alert. They knew that this could be their last chance to catch the suspect, and they were determined to make it count.

As they entered the building, their footsteps echoing in the empty hallway, they braced themselves for whatever lay ahead. With each step, they drew closer to their target, their determination unwavering in the face of adversity.

And then, just as they reached the top of the stairs, they spotted him. The suspect, cornered and desperate, turned to face them with a defiant glare.

"Freeze! BPD!" Jane shouted, her voice ringing out in the silence of the night.

With nowhere left to run, the suspect raised his hands in surrender, his expression a mix of fear and resignation. And as Jane and Korsak moved in to apprehend him, they knew that their relentless pursuit had finally paid off. They had found their suspect, and justice would be served.

With the suspect apprehended, Jane wasted no time in escorting him back to the precinct. She and Korsak kept a close eye on him, their senses heightened as they navigated the streets, ensuring that he didn't attempt to escape or cause any trouble.

As they arrived at the precinct, Jane led the suspect inside, her grip firm on his arm as she guided him through the bustling corridors. The suspect's eyes darted nervously around the room, his demeanor tense as he realized the gravity of his situation.

"Keep an eye on him, Korsak," Jane instructed, her voice low but authoritative as she handed off the suspect to her partner. "I'll check in with the captain and get the interrogation room set up."

Korsak nodded in understanding, his gaze unwavering as he maintained a firm grip on the suspect. "Got it, Jane. I'll make sure he doesn't go anywhere."

With a nod of thanks, Jane made her way to the captain's office, her mind already racing with plans for the interrogation. She briefed the captain on the situation, outlining the details of the case and the evidence they had gathered against the suspect.

Right before Jane entered the interrogation room she heard "Jane Clementine Rizzoli" and she froze in place slowly spinning towards the voice.

"Jane, where were you?" Maura's voice was sharp with frustration, her eyes blazing with indignation. "I waited for hours at the airport, and you never showed up. Do you have any idea how angry I am right now?"

Jane winced at the accusation in Maura's words, her heart heavy with guilt as she struggled to find the right words to explain her absence.

"I'm so sorry, Maura," Jane began, her voice thick with emotion. "I lost track of time chasing down a suspect, and I completely forgot to pick you up. It was a mistake, and I take full responsibility for it. Just tell me how I can make it up to you."

Despite Jane's sincere apology and promise to make amends, Maura's anger still simmered beneath the surface like a smoldering ember. Jane could feel Maura's resentment hanging heavy in the air, and it weighed heavily on her heart. She knew that she had let her girlfriend down in a big way, and the guilt gnawed at her insides with every step they took.

"I understand if you need some time," Jane said softly, breaking the silence as they reached Jane's desk. "I'll give you space if you want it."

Maura's jaw tightened at Jane's words, her anger still palpable as she turned to face her friend. "Space won't change what happened, Jane. You made a commitment to be there for me, and you failed to follow through. That's not something that can be easily forgiven."

Jane flinched at Maura's words, the weight of her disappointment crushing down on her like a ton of bricks. She had never wanted to hurt Maura, and yet here she was, responsible for causing her friend so much pain.

"I know," Jane replied, her voice thick with emotion. "And I'm truly sorry, Maura. I'll do whatever it takes to make things right, I promise."

Maura's expression softened slightly at Jane's sincerity, but the hurt still lingered in her eyes. "I want to believe you, Jane. But you've broken my trust, and it's going to take time to repair it."

With a heavy sigh, Maura turned away, her posture rigid with unresolved tension. Jane watched her go, a knot of regret twisting in her chest as she realized the depth of the damage she had caused.

With a heavy heart and the weight of Maura's anger still lingering in her thoughts, Jane pushed aside her personal turmoil as she entered the interrogation room. She was met with the steely gaze of the suspect, whose expression betrayed a mix of defiance and apprehension.

Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Jane squared her shoulders and assumed a commanding presence as she settled into her role as the interrogator.

"Alright, let's cut to the chase," Jane began, her voice firm and authoritative. "You've been brought in for questioning in connection to the murder of Emily Harris. We have evidence linking you to the crime, and it's in your best interest to cooperate with us."

The suspect's jaw clenched at Jane's words, but he remained silent, his eyes darting nervously around the room as he weighed his options.

"We know you were in the vicinity of the crime scene at the time of the murder," Jane continued, pressing forward with the interrogation. "We have witnesses who saw you lurking around the alley behind the clothing store. Care to explain what you were doing there?"

The suspect remained tight-lipped, his silence a frustrating barrier in their quest for answers. But Jane refused to be deterred.

"Listen, we have enough evidence to put you away for a long time," Jane persisted, her voice tinged with urgency. "But if you cooperate with us, we can help you. Tell us what you know about Emily Harris's murder, and we might be able to cut you a deal."

The suspect's resolve wavered at Jane's words, his eyes flickering with uncertainty as he weighed his options. After a tense moment of silence, he finally spoke, his voice barely above a whisper.

"I... I didn't mean to hurt her," he confessed, his gaze falling to the table as shame washed over him. "It was a mistake, I swear."

Jane leaned forward, her expression unreadable as she pressed for more information. "What do you mean, it was a mistake? What happened?"

And as the interrogation continued, Jane's determination never faltered.

Steeling herself for the difficult conversation ahead, she made her way down to the morgue where she knew Maura would be working.

As she entered the morgue, Jane's footsteps echoed softly in the quiet, sterile space. She spotted Maura at one of the examination tables, her focus intent as she worked on an autopsy.

"Maura," Jane called out softly, her voice tinged with apprehension as she approached her friend.

Maura glanced up at the sound of Jane's voice, her expression guarded as she met her girlfriend's gaze. "Jane," she replied coolly, her tone betraying none of the hurt and anger that Jane knew lay just beneath the surface.

Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Jane plunged into the conversation, her words earnest and sincere. "I know I messed up, Maura. I should have been there to pick you up from the airport, and I'm truly sorry for letting you down."

Maura's expression softened slightly at Jane's apology, but the hurt still lingered in her eyes. "You should have been there, Jane," she replied quietly, her voice tinged with sadness. "I needed you, and you weren't there for me."

Jane winced at the pain in Maura's words, the guilt tightening like a vice around her heart. "I know, Maura, and I can't even begin to express how sorry I am. I promise, I'll do everything in my power to make it up to you."

Maura studied Jane for a long moment, her gaze searching for any sign of insincerity. Finally, she nodded, a hint of forgiveness in her eyes. "I appreciate your apology, Jane. But actions speak louder than words. You'll need to show me that you're committed to making things right."

Jane nodded solemnly, her determination unwavering as she met Maura's gaze. "I will, Maura. I'll do whatever it takes to earn back your trust, I promise. Can I start with making you dinner tonight?"

Maura paused in her work, her gaze shifting from the examination table to Jane. There was a flicker of surprise in her eyes at Jane's offer, followed by a hint of curiosity.

"Dinner?" Maura echoed, a note of uncertainty in her voice.

"Yeah, dinner," Jane affirmed, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I'll cook and even make sure there are multiple vegetables."

Maura regarded Jane for a moment, her expression thoughtful as she considered the offer. Finally, she nodded, a small smile quirking at her lips.

"That sounds... nice," Maura replied, her voice soft with tentative hope. "I'd like that, Jane."

Relief flooded through Jane at Maura's acceptance, a weight lifting from her shoulders at the prospect of spending time together outside of work.

"Great!" Jane exclaimed, unable to suppress her enthusiasm. "I'll swing by the grocery store on my way home and pick up everything we need. What time do you think you will be home?"

Maura glanced at her watch before replying, "Probably around 7:00? That should give me enough time to finish up here."

"Perfect," Jane replied with a grin.

With a sense of purpose and determination, Jane made her way to Maura's place, a grocery bag filled with ingredients swinging from her arm. As she approached the familiar brownstone, she couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building in her chest.

Stepping inside, Jane was greeted by the familiar warmth of Maura's home, the scent of books and chemicals mingling in the air. She made her way to the kitchen, setting down the bag of groceries with a sense of purpose.

Glancing around the well-appointed kitchen, Jane took stock of the ingredients she had brought and began to plan out the meal. She knew that Maura appreciated healthy, balanced fare, so she set to work chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients with practiced ease.

As she worked, Jane couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over her. Cooking in Maura's kitchen felt like second nature, a comfortable routine that she had missed more than she realized.

Before long, the kitchen was filled with the comforting aroma of simmering spices and savory ingredients. With a satisfied smile, Jane set the table and grabbed a bottle of wine. She looked at the clock which said it was 6:55. Maura should be walking through the door any minute.

As Jane stood in the kitchen reflecting on the last few days from the case to ring shopping, to making one of the biggest mistakes in her life forgetting Maura completely at the airport, Maura entered the kitchen.

Jane leaned over to kiss her as Maura slightly turned so the kiss ended up on her cheek. Jane paused slightly taken a back by the gesture. She quickly recovered taking Maura's jacket from her and hanging it on the coat rack. She then moved towards the island pulling out Maura's chair for her.

"This looks incredible, Jane," Maura exclaimed, a genuine smile gracing her lips as she took in the scene.

Jane returned Maura's smile, her heart swelling with pride at the reaction to her efforts. "I hope you like it. I wanted to make something special for you."

Despite Jane's efforts to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, the dinner with Maura unfolded with a noticeable undercurrent of tension. As they sat at the table, the silence between them seemed to stretch on, punctuated only by the clink of silverware and the occasional polite comment about the food.

Jane couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment at the lack of conversation. She had hoped that sharing a meal together would provide an opportunity for them to reconnect, but it seemed that the rift between them was still too fresh to bridge with mere words.

As they picked at their food, Jane racked her brain for something to say, anything to break the awkward silence that hung over them like a heavy cloud. But every attempt at conversation fell flat, met with polite but distant responses from Maura.

Finally, as they finished their meal and pushed their plates aside, Jane couldn't bear the silence any longer. Taking a deep breath, she mustered up the courage to speak.

"Maura, I don't know what to say other than to apologize again" Jane began, her voice hesitant but earnest. "I love you so much."

Maura regarded Jane with a measured gaze, her expression unreadable as she listened to her friend's words. After a long moment of silence, she finally spoke, her voice soft but tinged with sadness.

"I understand the circumstances Jane," Maura replied, her tone guarded. "But trust is something that's earned, and it's going to take more than a dinner to rebuild what we've lost."

Jane nodded solemnly, her heart heavy with regret. She knew that repairing their relationship wouldn't happen overnight. Jane wanted to stay with Maura but she knew that Maura probably didn't want her around tonight.

Jane excused herself as Maura was replying to a lot minute email and went upstairs getting a bath together for Maura. She lit some candles and grabbed Maura's favorite bath bomb adding it to the hot water filling the tub. She grabbed her robe a placed it next to the tub and then returned downstairs just as Maura was closing her computer.

Jane refilled Maura's wine glass before setting it back down next to her.

"I have a bath ready for you upstairs to relax and unwind from your trip and all of the stress of the day. If you want to head up I'll clean the kitchen and do all of the dishes."

"Thank you Jane. A bath sounds amazing right about now." A small smile crossed Maura's face as she walked towards Jane placing a soft kiss on her lips. "Thanks for dinner, it really was delicious. See vegetables aren't really that bad."

"I guess they can be ok" Jane sighed "I'll finish up then head back to my apartment."

"Your apartment?" Maura, feeling slightly hurt again, questioned waiting for Jane's to explain.

"Well I just figured you wouldn't want to be around me tonight. I wanted to give you some space." Jane said tentatively.

"Even though I am angry," Maura began, her voice quiet but earnest. "I still want you here with me. I don't want to push you you want to stay?"

Jane felt a surge of hope well up inside her at Maura's words, her heart pounding with anticipation. "Of course, that's what I have wanted all night is just to wrap you in my arms and hold you" she admitted, her voice tinged with emotion.

Maura nodded in understanding, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Then stay," she said simply, her gaze meeting Jane's with unwavering determination. "We may have a lot to work through, but we can't do it alone. I need you, Jane."

The sincerity in Maura's words struck a chord deep within Jane's heart, washing away the doubts and fears that had clouded her mind. With a sense of resolve, she made her decision.

"I'll stay," Jane replied, her voice steady with determination. "Once I finish cleaning and locking up I will meet you in the bedroom. I love you Maura ."

"I love you to Jane" Maura said as she headed towards the bath.

Before Maura headed into the bathroom she quickly unpacked her bag from New York. She tossed the dirty clothes in the hampers, placed her shoes back in the closet and pulled a very small velvet box from a side pocket tucking it away in the back of her dresser drawer.

As she slipped into the comforting embrace of the water, Maura let out a sigh of relief, feeling the tension in her muscles begin to melt away. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself to relax completely, letting the gentle lapping of the water soothe her troubled mind.

For a while, Maura simply lay back in the tub, letting the stress of the day wash over her in waves. But as the minutes stretched into hours, she found herself reflecting on her conversation with Jane, the weight of their unresolved issues still heavy on her heart.

Lost in thought, Maura's mind drifted back to the words they had exchanged earlier, the raw honesty and vulnerability of their conversation echoing in her mind. Despite the hurt and anger she still felt, she couldn't deny the deep bond she shared with Jane, a bond that had weathered countless storms over the years.

Maura's mind drifted to the purchase she made in New York before catching her flight. Her friend was a jeweler with a small shop in Brooklyn. Maura had contacted her a week after the first time Jane said I love you to draw up plans for the perfect custom engagement ring. After weeks of back and forth the ring was ready for pickup and Maura secured it before getting on the plane.

Maura was slightly amused that the entire time of going back and forth, sending pictures and answering questions Jane never caught on that Maura was designing her engagement ring. Maura had even been able to slip a ring sizer on Jane's finger one night while Jane was sound asleep to figure out her ring size.

Maura had racked her brain on the perfect ring for Jane. During the design process the conversation they had years ago came into question. She remembered Jane wasn't to thrilled about the idea of marriage at the time but she had wanted a very simple ring which she could wear even while on the job.

Maura hoped Jane's view on marriage had changed since that last discussion. Every one of both of their past relationships had been just slightly off, just never quite fitting right. Maura knew the answer now was because they fit together perfectly, that's why no other relationship had worked before.

Maura chose a simple platinum band but needed to make it fit both of them as a couple. She had the platinum made with crushed rubies and citrines embedded into the band. The band emitted shine but was completely smooth to the touch. Maura had added the red rubies as a homage to the Red Sox but also because rubies represent passionate love which definitely described their relationship. She added the citrine into the ring because it encourages you to live life to the fullest and to pour your entire heart and soul into marriage. She had crafted the perfect engagement ring for Jane.

Sitting in the tub she knew she was no where near close to proposing but she wanted to be ready. She needed to test the waters to find out if Jane's take on getting married had changed from the conversations in the past.

As she recalled designing the ring she felt her anger dissipate and become replaced with love. She knew Jane did not forget her at the airport on purpose it had been a true accident. Maura knew they would move through this argument and come out of it as a stronger couple but planned to make Jane squirm a bit before. After all it was quite an inconvenience to not have a ride form the airport.

As they settled into bed, the tension that had hung between them seemed to melt away, replaced by a sense of peace and understanding. They lay side by side in the darkness, the only sound the soft rhythm of their breathing.

For a long time, neither of them spoke, content to simply bask in each other's presence. But as the minutes stretched on, Jane couldn't help but feel a sense of restlessness stirring within her.

"Maura," Jane whispered softly, breaking the silence of the night.

Maura turned to face her, her gaze searching Jane's eyes in the dim light of the room. "Yes, Jane?"

"How did the case in New York turn out?," Jane asked, her voice filled with sincerity. "I know you said they were close to solving it the last time we talked on the phone."

Maura's expression softened at Jane's words, a small smile playing at her lips. "It turned out the suspect left his DNA on the envelopes he used to write letters to the victims families harassing them. The detectives located him on a job sight and were bringing him in for questioning when I was leaving. Over all it was a satisfying end to the case."

"Jane" Maura began "I know you didn't leave me at the airport on purpose. I know how you get when you are hunting a suspect. I think it more hurt my feelings than anything else. I'm not saying everything is back to the way it was before, I do still need some time to process this. I guess what I am saying is that no matter how angry I get, I always want you here. I don't want you to walk away when one of us is mad. I want to work through the situation whatever it may be together." She said lying on her side looking into Jane's eyes.

"That's what I want also Maura. I will never forgive myself for today but I want to be better, you make me always want to be better than who I am. I never want this to happen again, you should always be my top priority and I didn't do a good job showing you that today. I happened to be laying in bed the night before you left thinking there was always something missing form every relationship I had, and I never could figure out what that something was. I realized that night that the something missing was you. I didn't have you in any of the other relationships and now that I have found the missing piece, I never want to lose it, to lose you." Jane leaned in to Maura kissing her on the lips slowly but then deepening it.

Maura wrapped her arms around Jane and pulled their bodies closer. "I missed this while I was in New York."

"Me too" Jane said as Maura snuggled into her and they drifted off into sleep.

— — —

Jane found herself consumed by thoughts of her future with Maura. The idea of proposing to her longtime friend and partner had taken root in her mind.

But as she pondered the perfect proposal, Jane found herself faced with a myriad of questions and uncertainties. How could she make the moment truly special for Maura? And perhaps most importantly, how could she ensure that the proposal captured the depth of her love and commitment?

Turning these questions over in her mind, Jane spent countless hours brainstorming ideas and researching different approaches. She scoured the internet for inspiration, poring over articles and blogs about romantic proposals and unique engagement ideas

Walking into work one morning she got a call from Gary the jeweler to let her know Maura's ring was ready.

After weeks of anticipation, the moment she had been waiting for had finally arrived.

Rushing to the jeweler's shop, Jane's mind buzzed with nervous energy as she imagined the look on Maura's face when she saw the ring for the first time. She couldn't wait to see the final product, to hold in her hands the symbol of her love and commitment to the woman who had captured her heart.

As she entered the shop, Jane was greeted by the Gary, who smiled warmly at her with excitement. With trembling hands, Jane accepted the small velvet box that held her custom creation, her heart pounding with anticipation.

Opening the box, Jane's breath caught in her throat at the sight of the ring nestled inside. It was even more beautiful than she had imagined, a sparkling five stone masterpiece of moonstone, blue sapphire, blue topaz and platinum that seemed to shimmer in the light.

With a sense of reverence, Jane carefully lifted the ring from its cushion, marveling at the intricate details and craftsmanship. It was perfect, a reflection of the depth of her love and devotion to Maura.

"Thanks again for all of your help. I definitely could not have done this without you, Gary." Jane said as she looked up from the ring.

"It really was pleasure to help you and I wish you and Maura many many happy years." He took a slight pause. "I do have some ideas for a wedding band if you intend to add one in the future" Gary winked.

Jane extended her arm and shook Gary's hand before tucking the velvet box in her jacket pocket. "I am sure I will be back soon" She laughed "Have you seen my fiancé, she deserves so many pieces of jewelry."

Jane walked out of the shop, then almost back to her car she instantly halted. She had an idea to help continue to apologize to Maura for the airport scenario, even though Maura had pretty much forgiven her completely, while also making a sort of practice proposal. She turned around and headed right back to Gary in the jewelry store.

"Well I have to say I didn't expect you to be back so soon" Gary smiled.

Jane started "So I kind of messed up big a few weeks ago, actually right after designing the ring." Gary looked on curiously as Jane continued. "I got wrapped up with work and forgot to pickup Maura from the airport" Jane said as she looked down at her feet.

"Oh no" Gary replied without judgement.

"I was thinking maybe I could find a necklace for Maura and help to continue to show her how sorry I am while also allowing me to practice some in getting ready for the proposal."

"Certainly, did you have anything in mind?" Gary said grabbing the keys to the cabinets from behind the desk.

"I am still very new to this entire jewelry scene, but I trust your recommendations." Jane looked up toward Gary who pulled a few necklaces from one cabinet.

"Ok, well let's start with some questions." Jane nodded and Gary began to ask. "Does she wear her hair up or down the majority of the time?"

"Well it's pretty much 50/50 I guess," Jane shrugged. Gary smiled and then continued on with he next question "What is her eye color?"

"That one is easy Gary, green, she has beautiful green eyes." Jane smiled as she replied thinking of looking into Maura's eyes.

"Ok, final question, does she wear more gold or silver jewelry?" Gary looked up towards Jane as he was pulling out another necklace.

"Geez, saved the hardest question for last, did ya. I have seen her wear both but don't know which she prefers more." Jane shrugged again as she responded.

"That's ok, take a look at these garnet necklaces. I think you should with a garnet because they signify trust, lifelong friendship, loyalty, and passion. And as you can see they come in a multitude of different colors. While the deep red color is traditional, we do have this beautiful green garnet or orange garnet necklace also."

Jane slowly looked between the five different necklaces in front of her. She held up the deep red garnet necklace with diamonds sets in a square around the main stone. The necklace had a silver solid chain and the stones were also set in silver. She watched as the light refracted off of the stones as she moved the pendant in her hand.

"I think this may be the winner, Gary. Plus I am partial to red being that it's the color of the Red Sox." Jane chuckled as she looked up towards Gary.

"I couldn't agree more, and I am sure that Maura will look stunning with this around her neck" Gary agreed as he moved towards the counter.

As Jane left the jewelry store for the second time that afternoon, she could help but think how proud Angela would be at how efficient a jewelry shopper she had become in this short time.

— — —

As Jane and Maura relaxed at home one evening, Jane couldn't contain her excitement any longer. With a nervous flutter in her stomach, she turned to Maura, her heart pounding with anticipation.

"Maura, I've been thinking," Jane began, her voice tinged with excitement. "What do you say we take a little weekend getaway?"

Maura's interest piqued, she turned to Jane, a curious expression on her face. "A getaway? That sounds lovely, Jane. Where were you thinking?"

A smile tugged at Jane's lips as she revealed her plan. "I was thinking we could spend the weekend at a charming bed and breakfast out in the cape. You know, just the two of us, away from the hustle and bustle of the city."

Maura's eyes lit up with delight at the suggestion. "That sounds wonderful, Jane. I could definitely use a break, and some time to relax and unwind sounds perfect."

Encouraged by Maura's enthusiasm, Jane pressed on, her excitement growing with each passing moment. "Great! I've already found the perfect place. It's a small group of cottages on the beach, there are some gardens connecting the cottages, and breakfast and lunch served each day. It looks like an older couple live there and run this full time"

Maura's smile widened at Jane's description, her anticipation evident in her voice. "It sounds absolutely lovely, Jane. When were you thinking of going?"

"I was thinking next weekend since we are both not on call," Jane replied, her gaze searching Maura's face for any sign of hesitation. "But if you don't want to go so soon, we can always reschedule."

Maura shook her head, her enthusiasm unwavering. "No, next weekend works perfectly for me. I'm looking forward to it, Jane."

With a sense of relief and excitement, Jane felt a weight lift from her shoulders. She couldn't wait to spend the weekend with Maura, away from the stresses of their everyday lives, and she was determined to make it a trip they would never forget.

— — —

The week flew by and Jane and Maura found themselves trying to finish packing Thursday night in order to get an early start Friday morning.

Jane attempted to pack as neatly as possible but inevitably she ended up tossing clothes in a bag.

First, Jane selected comfortable yet stylish outfits for their weekend retreat, opting for casual ensembles that would be perfect for exploring the quaint surroundings. She packed a mix of jeans, what Maura considered nice shirts, shirts she considered nice and a few sweatpants and t-shirts, ensuring that they would be prepared for whatever the weather might bring.

Next, Jane turned her attention to the essentials. She packed toiletries, including her favorite shampoo and conditioner, as well as a travel-sized bottle of Maura's preferred body wash.

As she rummaged through her closet, Jane couldn't resist slipping a few surprises into her suitcase. She tucked away a bottle of Maura's favorite wine, along with a box of gourmet chocolates, knowing that they would make the perfect treats for their romantic weekend away.

Finally, Jane held up both velvet boxes. She packed the necklace, knowing it would be the perfect gift for Maura this weekend. As she went to place the ring back in it's designated drawer something caused her to pause. She hadn't intended to propose this weekend as she was still working out the perfect details but something in her gut told her to put it in the bag anyway. Jane realized she would rather be ready for anything in case the perfect moment arose. Tucking both boxes inside one of her socks she zipped up the bag on headed to the car to head to Maura's house to help Maura finish packing and for dinner.

As Maura prepared for their weekend getaway, she approached packing with her characteristic attention to detail and meticulous planning. She wanted to ensure that she had everything they might need for a relaxing and enjoyable trip to the bed and breakfast on the cape.

Maura selected a variety of outfits for the weekend, carefully considering both comfort and style. She packed a mix of casual and elegant attire, including comfortable jeans and soft sweaters for exploring the outdoors, as well as a few dresses and blouses for dinner.

Next, Maura turned her attention to the practical items they would need for their trip. She packed toiletries, including her favorite skincare products and haircare essentials, ensuring that she would feel pampered and refreshed throughout their stay. She also packed a selection of books and magazines to enjoy during quiet moments at the bed and breakfast, knowing that she would relish the opportunity to unwind and relax.

Maura knew Jane would be arriving at any point and wanted to get her luggage packed before Jane could see what she packed. Maura had bought 2 new sets of lingerie she knew Jane would enjoy seeing on her and realized this would be the perfect weekend to show Jane her gift. Maura opened the top drawer of her dresser and grabbed the small velvet box. She hadn't yet made up her mind on whether it was time to propose yet but wanted to be ready in the event of the perfect moment, after all this was supposed to be a romantic getaway.

Maura tucked the box and the lingerie towards the bottom of her suitcase and zipped it up just as she heard Jane walking in the front door.

Jane and Maura sat down to a lite dinner Maura had prepared. As Maura finished putting the salad on the table, Jane poured them each a glass of wine. With their minds buzzing with anticipation, they eagerly began discussing their plans for their stay.

"So, Maura, what do you think we should do when we arrive at the bed and breakfast?" Jane asked, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Maura pondered for a moment, her brow furrowing slightly as she considered their options. "Well, I think we should start by exploring the grounds," she replied thoughtfully. "I've heard that there's a beautiful garden and some walking trails nearby. It would be nice to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the scenery."

Jane nodded in agreement, a smile spreading across her face. "That sounds perfect, Maura. And after that, maybe we could relax with a glass of wine on the beach and watch the sunset."

Maura's eyes lit up at the suggestion. "I love that idea, Jane. There's something so peaceful about watching the sunset, especially in such a picturesque setting."

As they continued to discuss their plans, Jane and Maura found themselves growing more and more excited for the adventures that awaited them. They talked about exploring the nearby town, indulging in a spa day at the bed and breakfast's onsite spa, and even taking a cooking class together.

Jane and Maura woke up with a sense of excitement bubbling within them, eager to embark on their weekend getaway to the bed and breakfast in the countryside. After an early breakfast at home, they gathered their bags and made their way to the car, ready to hit the road and start their adventure.

As they drove out of the city, Jane couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over her. The rolling hills and lush greenery stretched out before them, a tranquil backdrop for their journey as they headed to the coast.

Maura sat beside her, her eyes bright with excitement as she gazed out the window, taking in the beauty of their surroundings. The anticipation of the weekend ahead filled the air between them, their conversation light and filled with laughter as they talked about their plans for the trip.

After a few hours of driving, they finally arrived at the bed and breakfast, greeted by the warm hospitality of the owners, Margaret and her husband Theadore, and the charming ambiance of their surroundings. As they stepped out of the car and breathed in the fresh country air, Jane felt a sense of excitement building within her.

"This place is even more beautiful than I imagined. I can smell the saltwater," Maura exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the picturesque surroundings.

Jane smiled at her enthusiasm, her heart swelling with happiness at the sight of Maura's joy. "I'm glad you like it, Maura. I wanted this weekend to be special for us."

As they checked into their cottage and settled in, Jane couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over her. This weekend was the perfect opportunity for them to relax and reconnect, to leave the stresses of their everyday lives behind and focus on each other.

Maura immediately began packing her clothes into the dresser in the bedroom. Jane sat on the bed watching in amusement as her girlfriend found a designated place for everything in her bag.

"Jane, I couldn't help but notice that you always seem to live out of your suitcase when we go on vacation," Maura remarked, her tone thoughtful. "Is there a reason why you prefer not to unpack?"

Jane shrugged, a faint smile playing at the corners of her lips. "I guess I've just always been a 'throw everything in the suitcase and go' kind of person. It saves time, you know?"

Maura nodded in understanding, but there was a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "But doesn't it bother you not having everything organized? I find that unpacking helps me feel more settled and relaxed when we're away from home."

Jane considered Maura's words for a moment, her brow furrowing slightly as she thought about it. "I suppose I've never really thought about it that way. I guess I've always been more focused on getting out and exploring, rather than worrying about unpacking."

Maura smiled, her gaze softening with understanding. "That makes sense. We all have our own ways of approaching things, don't we?"

Jane nodded in agreement, a sense of camaraderie filling the air between them. "Definitely. And hey, if unpacking helps you feel more relaxed, then I'm all for it. Whatever works, right?"

Jane took her bag and set it in the closet and then wandered into the small kitchenette in the cottage. She retuned to the bedroom with two wine glasses and a bottle of Maura's favorite wine she had packed in her bag.

Maura had just sat back down on the bed as Jane walked into the bedroom.

"Wow, where did you find that? This is my favorite wine, Jane" Maura said a bit surprised as Jane handed her a glass and poured her some of the wine.

As Jane placed her glass on the nightstand and began to fill it she replied "I know your favorite wine" and then with a smirk "You didn't think I wouldn't remember to pack the essentials did you?"

"You brought this from home" Maura exclaimed as Jane sat down next to her on the bed.

Jane smiled and leaned in for a kiss. As the kiss broke she replied "Yes, I wanted to make sure you had everything you needed to relax and also I am pretty partial to this wine now. How could we go an entire weekend if they had shitty wine here."

Maura smacked Jane's arm jokingly, "Language, Jane." She then leaned in and kissed Jane again this time a bit longer and with more passion.

"I love you Jane Rizzoli" She stated as the kiss broke.

"I love you too Maura Isles" Jane said taking both of their glasses of wine and placing them on the bedside table.

Jane now standing turned back toward Maura who was still seated on the bed. She bent down to kiss Maura placing her hands on either side of Maura on the bed, shifting her weight slightly towards her.

Maura reached up and cupped Janes face allowing one hand to become entangled in Jane's thick dark curls. Maura pulled Jane's face slightly into hers as Jane's tongue requested entrance into Maura's mouth.

Their tongues danced taking turns exploring each others mouths as the kiss continued. When they broke for a quick second for an oxygen break Jane began to use her upper body to push Maura onto her back on the bed. Jane ended up on top of Maura with her weight supported on her forearm that was popped up next to Maura.

As they began to kiss again Jane's hand began to travel down to the hem of Maura's sweater. Once her fingers reached the hem they slowly began to work their way under it searching for contact with skin. The instance Jane's fingers found Maura's warm skin, she heard Maura let out a sigh. Emboldened by Maura's reaction her fingers began to move back upward massaging and grasping Mauras skin as they moved. Her sweater began to ride up as Jane's finger reached the edge of her bra. As fingers ran over her nipple hidden under the lace bra, Maura could not help but moan. Jane caught her moan in her mouth then began to kiss down her neck starting with Maura's ear.

Maura squirmed slightly under Jane's touch with both her fingers and her mouth. Everywhere their skin met felt like fire to Maura.

Jane continued kissing down Maura's neck heading for her collarbone. With each kiss Maura could feel the fire shoot into her core and wetness begin to pool.

With every sound Maura made and squirm under her touch Jane could also feel her core began to heat up. Soon Maura's hands were also wandering to the base of Jane's shirts looking to find skin too.

Jane ran her palm over Maura's nipple and could feel it become erect under the lace. She would never tire of this feeling with Maura underneath her responding to her every touch.

After a backwards and forward motion she began to knead Maura's breast slowly. Again a moan escaped Maura's mouth involuntarily.

Maura's hands had now found Janes abdomen and her fingers were running over Jane's hard abdominal muscles. As her fingers began to creep back towards Jane's shoulders she could feel a slight shiver come over Jane.

Jane slid slightly to the side of Maura allowing her thigh to rest right over Maura's core. She could feel the heat through Maura's skirt. Applying a small amount of pressure with her thigh she moved her mouth directly over Maura's pulse point and began to kiss, sucking gently.

"Remember do not leave any marks where people can see" Maura panted jerking her hips up slightly to create a bit more pressure against Jane's thigh.

"Ok, well then I am going to need to remove some of this clothing" Jane smiled as her mouth began to move into the v neck of Maura's shirt.

Maura chuckled slightly as Jane sat up to remove Maura's shirt, pulling it over her head and down her left arm. As Jane leaned back to toss the shirt to the dresser Maura said "I thought we were going to explore the gardens when we arrived."

Jane raised one eyebrow and said "I'm exploring your gardens right now, I am sure the outside gardens will still be there in a few hours"

Maura smacked Jane who let out an exaggerated "Ow"

"If you are taking my clothes off, you better take your clothes off as well" Maura eyed Jane.

Jane met Maura's gaze then allowed her eyes to slightly wander down her chest to her green lace lingerie bra. "Is this new?" Jane questioned

"I knew you would notice" Maura laughed softly. "I can read your mind Jane Rizzoli, and if you want to know if I am wearing a matching set than you better speed up the rate at which clothing is being removed."

Jane smiled and leaned into Maura for another kiss. "How do you know me so well?" Pulling back she quickly removed her shirt and pants. Left only in her black boy shorts and black bra she reached down to unzip and remove Maura's skirt.

"The same way I knew you would figure out what color lingerie I was wearing before we saw the gardens." Maura said gazing up at the exquisite form in front of her.

"We just fit" Jane murmured to Maura as she laid back down to resume exploration of Maura's body with her hands.

Jane started at Maura's belly button kissing up towards the valley in-between Maura's breasts. Placing her mouth on the lace just above Maura's nipple, she could feel it become erect. Repeating the same action on the other side she replaced her mouth with her fingers.

Jane could feel wetness pooling in her boy shorts and shifted slightly to settle her thigh in-between Maura's legs again.

Maura let out a sigh as soon as the pressure of Jane's thigh cam in contact with her core. She knew Jane could feel the wetness in-between her legs through the green lace.

As Jane began to move her mouth back to Maura's neck she lifted up slightly and began to thrust her thigh up and down into Maura corresponding to each kiss touching Maura's skin. She could feel how wet Maura was as each thrust. After a few rounds Maura begged "Jane please."

Jane quickly slid a hand behind Maura's back undoing her bra sending it to the same location as the rest of their piled clothes. Maura's breasts were magnificent. Jane was pretty sure she had never seen a more perfect pair. Each teardrop breast fit in Jane's outstretched fingers. Although there were many parts of Maura that Jane loved her luscious breasts were always in the top.

As her mouth met Maura's nipple sucking it, in and out of her mouth in rapid succession her hand reached down to snag Maura's green lace underwear pulling it down her legs.

In a quick movement Jane stood up and removed her bra and boy shirts. Before joining Maura back on the bed, she took a second to take in her girlfriend laying there waiting for her. Jane could see the moisture between her legs and took pride knowing that she was the direct cause.

Jane laid back down placing her thigh in the same place as a moment before. Her lips crashed into Maura's and again caught Maura's moan as she applied pressure to her core.

Maura's hand found Jane's breast and began massaging and rolling her nippled in between two fingers. Although Jane's breasts were smaller than Maura's they were always soft and responsive to Maura's touches. Maura trailed her hand down Jane's side running down her butt. As she grabbed and kneaded Jane, Jane began to thrust.

Breaking a kiss Jane dropped her head next to Maura panting. Maura begged again "Jane please, I need you"

With those words Jane resumed kissing down Maura's neck towards her breast while trailing her hand down Maura's abdomen ghosting her fingers over Maura's skin. As Jane's fingers reached Maura's wet center she began to suck her nipple in ad out of her mouth.

After a few passes through the entire length of Maura's folds, almost with out warning she inserted one finger causing Maura to moan and grab at Jane's back slightly sinking her nails into Jane's skin.

With one finger inserted she began to thrust back and forth feeling Maura's movements against her hand she added a second finger. Maura continued to make nosies Jane knew she would never tire of hearing and lined her thigh up with her hand to provide a bit more power when thrusting in.

Maura was coming undone under Jane and Jane relished every moment. Jane used her thumb to circle her clit with each thrust.

"More" Maura panted "Jane" more panting then "Deeper"

Jane complied adding a third finger and picking up the pace and thrusting power. With wetness being emitted from Maura's core with every thrust, Jane's mind quickly hoped they weren't ruining the quilt underneath them and made a mental note for the next round to remove it.

Jane could feel Maura's walls starting to tense knowing she had her close to climaxing. Jane continued the pace and then growled, "Come for me baby," right into Maura's ear. Her breath tickling Maura's ear.

That was it for Maura, the sound of Jane growling in her ear was enough to send her over the edge. Maura screamed Jane's name as she let go. Jane slowed the thrusts but continued to brush Maura's clit with the palm of her hand with each slow thrust.

Waves of Maura's orgasm continued to roll though her body as Jane admired the beautiful women she called her own underneath her. Jane's wetness had become almost unbearable at this point but she wanted to make sure Maura extracted every ounce of pleasure available.

As Maura came down from her high, Jane rolled onto the bed onside of her. In an almost instance Maura had flipped Jane completely on her back with her knee applying pressure to Jane's core as her mouth began to kiss Jane's soft ample breasts and her fingers massaged down Jane's abdominal muscles.

"It won't take much" Jane panted "I almost lost it when you came."

Maura's eyes widened slightly at the need laced into Jane's words. Maura would not tease Jane, she knew she was ready for release.

Maura's fingers found Jane's clit and began to apply pressure encircling it. Maura felt the amount of wetness and knew Jane was ready. Without warning she slid two fingers into Jane, as Jane moaned her name.

Maura could listen to Jane moaning her name over and over and over. Hearing it cause Maura to find wetness beginning to pool in her core again.

Maura began to thrust back and forth rapidly feeling Jane's body began to tense she directed some pressure back to her clit. A few thrusts later and Jane cried out "Fuck" as she came directly onto Maura's hand. Maura's lips found Jane's as she rode to the waves of her orgasm.

Jane laid on her back with Maura's head on her chest and their legs entertained on the bed both covered in a light sheen of sweat from their previous activities.

"I love you Maura Isles" Jane whispered as she placed a kiss onto Maura's forehead.

Maura looked up meeting Jane's chocolate eyes. "I love you too Jane Rizzoli."

After a few more minutes embracing each other, Maura began "Now that you have seen my gardens," she began to chuckle "Can we now go and tour the gardens outside?"

Jane smiled from ear to ear replying "Certainly."

— — —

After a leisurely walk exploring the gardens of the bed and breakfast, Jane and Maura decided to take advantage of the beautiful weather and head to the nearby beach for an afternoon stroll. With the sun shining overhead and a gentle breeze blowing off the water, it seemed like the perfect way to spend the afternoon.

As they walked hand in hand along the sandy shore, the sound of the waves crashing against the shore filled the air around them, a soothing backdrop to their conversation. They talked about everything and nothing, their words interspersed with laughter and the occasional pause to admire the stunning scenery.

Maura couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over her as she walked beside Jane, the warm sand beneath her feet and the salty sea air filling her lungs. It was moments like these, she thought, that reminded her of the simple pleasures in life and the importance of taking time to appreciate them.

Jane, too, felt a sense of contentment as she walked with Maura, the sound of her laughter and the warmth of her hand in hers filling her heart with joy. She couldn't imagine a more perfect way to spend the afternoon than walking along the beach with the woman she loved, their worries and cares left behind with each step they took.

As they strolled along the beach, Maura's sharp eye caught sight of a small crab scuttling across the sand. With a delighted smile, she gently nudged Jane and pointed to the tiny creature.

"Jane, look! Do you see that crab over there?" Maura exclaimed, her eyes alight with excitement.

Jane followed Maura's gaze and spotted the crab, its small form blending in with the grains of sand as it scurried along the shoreline. "Yeah, I see it! It's so small," she remarked, her curiosity piqued.

Maura nodded, her enthusiasm evident as she began to share some interesting facts about the crab. "That's a ghost crab," she explained. "They're commonly found on sandy beaches like this one, and they're known for their ability to quickly dig burrows in the sand to hide from predators."

Jane listened intently, her fascination growing with each new piece of information. "That's amazing," she remarked, watching as the crab darted across the sand.

Maura smiled, pleased to share her knowledge with Jane. "There's so much diversity in the natural world, even in seemingly ordinary places like this," she replied. "It's one of the things I love most about science – there's always something new to discover."

Just as they were nearing the path back to the bed and breakfast Jane's stomach began to rumble. Maura looked at Jane smiling and said "Well we better head back for dinner or that crab is going to be hiding from a hungry human"

Jane laughed as they turned up the path hand in hand. When they got back to the cottage Maura began to get ready for dinner while Jane decided to check in with Margaret and Theodore regarding the dinner menu and other details.

"Excuse me," Jane said with a warm smile, stepping up to the front desk where Theodore was organizing some papers. "I was wondering if I could get a little more information on dinner, I know the reservation said it was included?"

Theodore looked up, returning Jane's smile with one of his own. "Of course! We actually have an onsite restaurant here at the inn that serves delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Would you like me to make a reservation for you?"

Jane nodded in agreement. "That sounds perfect," Jane replied, turning back to the Theodore. "I'd love to make a reservation for dinner in about a hour and half if possible in the patio dining."

He nodded, reaching for a reservation book on the desk. "Absolutely. Your table will be ready for you at 7 o'clock tonight. I'll let the kitchen know to expect you."

"Do you know what is on the menu by chance?" Jane questioned and Theodore grabbed a handwritten paper with the nights available dishes written down.

"Thank you so much," Jane said with genuine appreciation.

Walking back to the cottage, Jane decided she would give Maura the necklace at dinner tonight. She found herself speed walking to the cottage to get ready. She snapped a few flowers off one of the garden's bushes right before entering their cottage.

When she arrived Maura had just got out of the shower and was still wrapped in her towel. Jane stopped in the doorway and watched as Maura was walking around getting her outfit for dinner. She walked into the room causing Maura to look up and smile. Jane leaned in for a kiss and then presented Maura with the flowers.

"Jane you did not pick those flowers out of their garden did you?" Maura scolded

Jane suddenly slightly embarrassed looking back at the action now shrugged her shoulder and stated "Maybe?" She paused "I only picked them for you, it seemed like a good thing in the moment"

Maura lightened her scowl and replied "They are beautiful but let's not do that again. I don't want to get in trouble and have to leave."

Jane smiled placing the flowers on the dresser and pulling Maura in for another kiss running her hands up the towel looking for the opening when Maura stepped back asking, "Jane, when are we going to dinner?"

Jane looked at her watch, then back up at Maura "In about an hour we have a reservation for a table on the patio." She thought for a second "Oh and here is a list of the available meals tonight," she said producing the hand written list Theodore handed her.

"If dinner is in a hour then we do not have time to do what you are thinking about." She said jokingly "You need to get in the shower."

"We should have showered together to save water" Jane replied.

"We both know we wouldn't have saved any water." Maura said raising an eye brow at Jane. "Get in the shower," she stated as she pointed towards the bathroom.

Jane leaned in for one more kiss letting it deepen slightly as she pulled away her hand found the edge of the towel and she yanked it back dropping it to the floor.

Taking a step back as the towel fell, Jane grinned extremely happy with herself and the view that was now before her.

Maura smiled letting Jane take in her complete naked form. "Are you happy now?" She chuckled and she continued to point to the bathroom. "Shower, now, or you won't be seeing this" she gestured down her body "again this evening if we miss dinner."

"Ok, ok" Jane slowly backed into the bathroom not taking her eyes off Maura as she bent down to retrieve her towel and placed it back around her body.

— — —

Jane purposely left her phone on the bed in the cottage and right as they walked a few steps down the path she looked at Maura and said "My phone, I left my phone on the bed. I will be right back." With that she turned and ran back into the cottage closing the door for a second behind her leaving Maura in the garden.

Jane ran to her bag and opened the sox with the two velvet boxes. She grabbed the box with the necklace, opening it quickly to ensure she grabbed the right one. Then she popped it closed and placed it in her jacket pocket running back to Maura.

"Sometimes I think you would forget your head if it wasn't attached," Maura stated as Jane rejoined her.

"Possibly" Jane laughed.

As the evening approached and the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the bed and breakfast's patio, Jane and Maura made their way to the inn's onsite restaurant for dinner. They were greeted by the soft flicker of candlelight and the gentle strains of music drifting through the air, creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

Seated at a table on the patio overlooking the lush gardens, Jane and Maura took in the sights and sounds around them, their hearts filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share this special moment together. The scent of freshly cut flowers mingled with the tantalizing aroma of their meal, enticing their appetites and heightening their senses.

As they perused the menu, Jane and Maura engaged in easy conversation, their words flowing effortlessly as they caught up on each other's lives and shared stories from their past. They laughed and reminisced, their laughter mingling with the soft murmur of other diners around them.

When their meal arrived, Jane and Maura savored each bite, delighting in the flavors and textures of the delicious dishes before them. They shared bites of food and sips of wine, their laughter and conversation filling the air as they enjoyed the simple pleasure of each other's company.

Jane felt like the velvet box was burning a hole in her pocket the entire meal but she kept her composure. A mixture of anxiety, excitement and love all swirled around her head. She kept flipping back in forth to if she should have grabbed the ring instead of the necklace all throughout the meal.

As desert came to the table, Jane jumped on the opportunity.

"Maura I got you a gift." Jane started slowly.

"Really Jane, you didn't have to, this weekend getaway was enough." Maura's eyes lit up as she looked at Jane.

Jane fumbled with the box in her jacket pocket for a second before pulling it out.

"Maura" Jane began "We fit together, I am not sure how or why, just the fact that we do.."

"Wait" Maura screamed as she jumped up from the table. Jane froze unsure how to respond or what her next move should be, so she just sat there. Maura jumped from the table and headed toward the cottage "I'll be right back Jane" Maura called over her shoulder as she scurried away.

Left there to wonder if she did or said something wrong, Jane was flabbergasted. She still held the velvet box in her hand extended in the direction of Maura just how she had been when she started her statement. She lost track of time unable to stop the running thoughts through her brain on whether this was the right thing to do or not.

Soon she saw Maura hurrying back to the able and resumed her seat. Jane still frozen was trying to gather her thoughts. While trying to figure out where to begin she noticed Maura holding something also.

"Ok Jane where were we" Maura stated reaching out her hand to hold Jane's.

Jane still sat in silence and frozen.

"Jane" Maura stated looking nervously at her "Are you ok?"

Jane nodded but still sat frozen unable to resume the conversation.

"Jane, I am so sorry for interrupting you but there was something I needed to retrieve from the cottage" Maura began to nervously fill the air with words.

Jane still frozen holding the velvet box.

"Jane, I have something for you too" Maura continued to talk nervously "That is why I needed to run to the cottage"

"You have something for me too?" Jane said now more confused than the moment before

"Jane I love you and I wanted to make sure I had yours for you also" Maura said Jane just continued to stare still completely taken off guard by the turn of the evening, trying to put all the pieces back together in her mind but failing to do so.

"Jane how about you give me my box and I will give you your box and then before we open them, you can say what you had planned and then I can say what I had planned." Maura nodded still looking at Jane concerned.

Jane nodded and handed Maura the velvet box and in turn Maura handed Jane the other velvet box.

Jane took a few deep breaths, still looking at Maura with a bit of confusion.

Maura started "Your were saying we fit together," as she looked at Jane pausing for her to restart their conversation.

"Um yes, we fit together, I am not sure how or why but we do," Jane paused for a second waiting to see if anything else drastic happened "Maura I found my missing piece when I found you and I know recently that I called into question how much I care for you. You are my top priority, and you will always be my top priority. I want to have a future with you, to have a long lasting relationship and I know to do that we must grow and learn together. I know we will both make mistakes but the strength of our relationship will come in how we work through them together. I got you this to show you that I love you and that I am ready and willing to work through any ups and downs." Jane finished and as she looked into Maura's eyes she could see tears beginning to form in the corners.

Maura looked at Jane "I think we should just open them at the same time and then I will say a few words about yours."

Jane nodded and started opening the box in her hand but not taking an eye off Maura opening the box in her hand. Jane looked at Maura's face when a flash of disappointment jumped across but then was hidden behind Maura's smile just not as wide as the one a few minutes before.

Jane glanced down at the box in her hands and saw a ring. Immediately her mind raced, how did these wires get crossed. She didn't just propose to Maura, she was just explaining how she was still sorry for leaving her at the airport. She had given Maura a necklace and Maura had given her an engagement ring. An engagement ring Jane echoed in her head. Thoughts continue to race when Jane suddenly had a moment of clarity.

"Wait" Jane screamed jumping up from the table. "I'll be right back, I just have to go to the cottage" She screamed over her shoulder as she was almost in a full sprint heading back towards the cottage.

Maura sat their frozen holding the velvet box with a necklace in it. Maura was devastated, how did she get the lines so crossed. She had thought she read the moment perfect Jane was going to propose, and so Maura wanted to be able to give Jane her ring at the same time. Maura saw the panic flash across Jane's face when she realized Maura had given her a ring. Was Jane not ready for marriage, Maura thought to herself. Was she running away because Jane previously had run from committed relationships. Maura had thought she had judged this correctly that Jane had changed with her and was open to a long term relationship. Jane just said in her speech that she wanted a future with Maura. Maura let a tear drop from her eye as all of the thought raced through her mind.

Maura looked up and still didn't see Jane, being unaware of how much time had passed another tear drop fell and hit Maura's lap. She looked over at the box holding Jane's engagement ring still sitting on the table where Jane has left if before running off. Maura was crushed, Jane was the best thing in her life and she just lost her, all by being unable to read a conversation.

As Maura dabbed her eyes with her napkin, Jane came running back to the table breathing heavily. She sat down trying to catch her breath and took a sip of water.

"Jane, I am sorry, I didn't realize.." Maura started still teary eyed.

"Wait, Stop." Jane said catching her breath.

Jane stood back up and then dropped on one knee holding out the second velvet box. As Maura's eyes followed Jane's movements still trying to wrap her head around the situation she caught a glimmer coming from the open box.

"Maura Dorthea Isles, you are the best thing to every happen to me. Will you marry me?" Jane said confidently extending the box and ring towards Maura.

"Yes, Jane Clementine Rizzoli will you marry me?" Maura stated grabbing the box with Jane's ring in it and extending it towards Jane.

"It would be my honor." Jane replied as she moved forward to slide the ring on Maura's finger. Maura then slid Jane's ring on her finger and they both sat back down at the table.

After a few seconds of silence Jane started "Well that's not how I had it planned but I guess that is life. Life is always an adventure with you Maura." Jane chuckled "I think it was a little bit less pressure this way. I was overwhelmed just trying to find the perfect way to ask you."

"Life will never be boring" she smiled at Jane. "I didn't know how to propose either but I knew I wanted to be ready when the time was perfect."

"Tonight was the perfect time," Jane said s she leaned in to kiss Maura.