*3 months ago*
It is late in the evening when Jane finally returns home after six weeks. The cold night air envelops her like an old friend as she steps out of the military vehicle. The moon casts a silver light on the quiet streets, and the stars sparkle like jewels in the night sky. The city sleeps, but Jane's heart pounds heavily in her chest.
She reaches the door of the house and exhales in relief before touching the doorknob. Her eyes fall on the small nameplate next to the door, which reads "Jane R. & Maura I." in elegant script. A warm feeling spreads through her as she reads the names. The simple sign has been like a lighthouse guiding her through the storm of the past weeks. She turns the key in the lock and quietly steps inside.
The house is silent, filled with a comforting warmth that immediately envelops her. The familiar scent of jasmine and citrus greets her, blending with the subtle aroma of vanilla candles burning somewhere in the house. She drops her bag and slowly undresses, standing only in her underwear. It's a tradition for her, almost like shedding a cocoon to be reborn as a new butterfly. Jane knows it won't work today, that after missions like this, it takes more than just stripping off olive-green clothing to soothe her bleeding soul. She presses her palms against her eyes, trying to suppress the tears rising again.
Then she moves barefoot and in only her underwear through the house, her senses sharpening with each step. She feels the soft carpet beneath her feet, hears the faint crackling of candles flickering somewhere in the background. The silence isn't oppressive but calming, like the gentle sound of a distant sea.
When she reaches the bathroom upstairs, she stops in the doorway. The sight before her is like a dream. Maura lies in the bathtub, her eyes closed, her features relaxed. Gentle music fills the room, a quiet, soothing song that makes the atmosphere even more intimate. The water shimmers in the candlelight, rippling softly against Maura's body.
Maura's skin is slightly reddened by the warm water, and she looks so peaceful and feminine in that moment that Jane's breath catches in her throat. Her honey-blonde hair is loosely pinned up, a few stray strands dancing in the flicker of the candle flames, falling gently over her shoulders. Her features are soft and relaxed, her long lashes casting shadows on her cheeks. Maura is half-reclined in the tub, her arms resting on the edge, her hands slightly open. She holds a glass of wine, balanced on the rim of the tub. The red wine reflects the flickering candlelight, adding an extra touch of warmth and intimacy to the room. The scent of rose oil, which she had added to the bath, fills the air and mixes with the aroma of vanilla candles. It's a scent that reminds Jane of home, of safety and love.
Slowly, Maura's eyes open, and her gaze falls on Jane standing in the doorway. A gentle smile spreads across her face as she sees Jane. Her eyes wander over Jane's body, starting at her strong shoulders and gliding over her athletic figure. Jane's hair is loose and still slightly damp, falling in soft waves over her left shoulder. Maura's eyes linger on Jane's tattoo, a majestic tree whose roots begin on the inside of her thigh. The vines spread outward, wrapping around her hips, forming the sturdy trunk that winds around her waist and stretches across her back to her shoulder blade. Where the tattoo begins to fade, the leaves drift away like those of a tree in autumn.
The details of the tattoo are mesmerizing. The roots are deep and branched, symbolizing strength and resilience. The trunk is strong, full of life, and the leaves, drifting from the tree, carry a melancholic yet freeing beauty. Maura knows this tattoo inside and out; she has traced and kissed every line, every curve, both the front part she now sees and the back part she knows by heart.
As Maura's gaze continues over Jane's body, she notices the countless bruises and scrapes that mark Jane's skin. She immediately recognizes that Jane has been through a tough mission. The fatigue and exhaustion are clear in Jane's eyes, which are usually bright and full of life but now seem heavy and dull. The damp spots on her cheeks glisten tellingly in the flickering light.
The candles cast a warm, golden light on Jane's face, making her look even more fragile and melancholic in the half-shadow. The sight is both calming and heart-wrenching for Maura. She feels the weight of the past weeks that Jane has carried and, at the same time, the immense relief of finally having her back.
Jane takes a deep breath, the scent of rose oil and vanilla filling her lungs, mixing with the slight taste of salt on her lips. Her eyes burn from the tears she is trying so hard to hold back.
Slowly, Jane steps closer, each step a silent confession of her longing. The urge to touch Maura is too strong for Jane to resist. She kneels next to the tub, her eyes following the contours of Maura's face, the curved lashes, the gentle lips. She lifts a hand and softly strokes Maura's cheek, the touch as light as a feather. Maura closes her eyes for a moment. Then she opens them again, and a soft smile spreads across her face. Her eyes shine in the candlelight, and for a moment, the world around them is forgotten.
Jane can't help herself; she leans forward and kisses Maura. She tastes the salt of her tears mingling with the sweetness of the wine on Maura's lips. The kiss is tender, gentle, yet filled with intense emotion.
"Welcome home, baby," Maura whispers, her voice soft and full of love.
Jane feels the tension of the past weeks fall away, the weight of the world lifted from her shoulders. A single tear rolls down her cheek. Maura pulls Jane's face closer and kisses the damp spot.
Jane slowly starts to pull away, intending to sit beside the tub, but Maura grabs her hand and gently but firmly pulls her closer.
Jane hesitantly lifts her hands to remove the last of her clothing. Maura watches as she moves slowly and carefully, as if each movement causes pain. Jane pulls the sports bra over her head and lets it drop to the floor before slipping off her underwear. Maura notices the tension in Jane's face, the effort it takes her to move.
Slowly and deliberately, Jane steps into the tub, the warm water immediately surrounding her, offering soothing relief. She settles between Maura's legs, finding comfort there. Jane leans back cautiously, her tired muscles slowly relaxing in the soothing warmth of the bath.
Maura watches every movement, her eyes following the tattoo that stretches majestically across Jane's body. Her hand glides gently over Jane's arm, a tender gesture that expresses all her love and care. Jane takes a deep breath and closes her eyes for a moment, letting the warmth of the bath and Maura's presence wash over her. Maura leans forward slightly, wrapping her arms around Jane and pulling her closer.
"I missed you so much," Jane whispers, her voice breaking with emotion.
"I missed you too," Maura replies quietly.
Jane takes a shaky breath, trying with all her might to push back the tears. But it's a battle she had lost before it even began. "It's okay, sweetheart. I'm here," Maura reassures her. Jane falls into the strong embrace, and her tears flow freely. Maura holds her tight until the quiet trembling of her body subsides.
"I love you," Jane whispers so softly that Maura almost doesn't hear it. She kisses Jane's temple and replies just as quietly, "I love you too."
Jane leans further back into Maura's arms, her eyes closing for a moment as she takes in the warmth of the room and Maura's love. The darkness outside and the cold of the night feel far away, replaced by the gentle glow of the candles and the comforting presence of the woman she loves.
xxx Two Days later xxx
Jane stands at the stove, stirring a deliciously fragrant sauce, while Maura chops vegetables and prepares the salad. The warm lighting and familiar sounds of the kitchen create a pleasant atmosphere.
Maura watches Jane lovingly as she works at the stove, the scent of fresh herbs and sautéed garlic filling the air. Maura smiles and steps closer to Jane to peek into the pot. Jane lifts a spoonful of sauce and offers it to Maura. She leans in, her lips closing around the spoon, savoring the rich flavor. Jane smiles in satisfaction as Maura gives her a tender kiss.
The two move harmoniously through the kitchen, their movements perfectly in sync. Jane continues stirring the sauce while Maura sautés the vegetables in a pan. They exchange small, loving touches and gentle kisses throughout. Maura grabs a piece of sliced pepper and offers it to Jane, who accepts it with a smile and bites into it.
While Jane stirs the spoon, Maura sets the knife aside for a moment and steps behind Jane, wrapping her arms around her waist. She kisses Jane's neck, enjoying the moment of closeness. Jane sighs contentedly and leans slightly back into Maura's embrace before refocusing on stirring the sauce.
Maura feeds Jane a piece of sautéed vegetable, and Jane takes it from her fingers before kissing her again. The joy and affection flowing between them are palpable. Maura smiles at the thought of how naturally and harmoniously they work together, like a well-rehearsed team.
As they continue cooking, Jane suddenly puts the spoon down and rubs her back, closing her eyes briefly as a flash of pain crosses her face. Maura notices immediately and steps closer, concern filling her eyes.
"Are you okay, baby?" Maura asks, her voice soft and full of worry.
Jane nods, trying to smile, but Maura sees the tension in her eyes. "Yes. Nothing you need to worry about, Maur."
Maura gives in for now but continues to keep an eye on Jane. A few minutes later, she notices Jane flinch again, this time rubbing her leg. Maura can't miss the lines of concern on Jane's face. Maura watches as Jane's lips tighten as though she's holding back a groan of pain. Despite Jane's efforts to hide it, Maura keeps noticing her rubbing her back and leg.
"Are you sure you're okay, sweetie?" Maura asks again, her eyes filled with worry. Jane avoids Maura's gaze and tries to change the subject. "I'm really okay, Maura."
Maura sighs quietly but lets it go for now. As they sit down to eat, Maura continues to notice Jane's discomfort. Jane pushes her food around on the plate, trying to reposition herself, as if trying to find a more comfortable way to sit. Each time a wave of pain passes through her body, Jane flinches slightly, and Maura can see the worry in her eyes.
"Jane, sweetheart, what's going on? You look like you're in pain," Maura asks softly but firmly. Jane takes a deep breath and tries to put on a smile. "It's really nothing, Maura. Don't worry. Let's just eat."
Maura nods slowly, but she's not convinced. After dinner, as they wash the dishes and tidy up the kitchen together, Maura continues to notice Jane constantly rubbing her back and leg.
"Jane, are you really okay?" Maura asks gently but firmly.
Jane tries once more to change the subject. "It's really nothing, Maura." She's hesitant, and Maura knows she's close to breaking through Jane's tough exterior.
She doesn't give up and places a hand on Jane's shoulder, a soft but determined touch. "What's wrong, Jane?"
Jane hesitates, avoiding Maura's gaze. "It's… it's nothing, Maura. Really."
As they finish drying the last of the dishes, Maura watches as a wave of pain suddenly hits Jane. Jane winces and grabs her back, her fingers digging into the aching flesh.
"Please, baby. Let's talk about this. I want you to be okay."
Jane hesitates, avoiding Maura's gaze again. Maura remains persistent, her voice full of concern. Jane closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. "I've been in pain for a few days now. It gets worse with certain movements."
Maura looks at Jane, her eyes full of worry. "Have you had this before?"
Jane shakes her head, avoiding Maura's gaze. "No, not like this."
"Did something happen that might have caused it?" Maura asks, her voice full of gentle insistence.
Jane hesitates for a moment before answering. "I fell backwards out of the second story of a building and landed hard on my back."
Maura's heart clenches painfully, her eyes widening with concern. "Oh, sweetie," she whispers, her voice trembling slightly. "How could you not tell me?"
"I didn't want to burden you," Jane murmurs. "I thought it would get better."
Maura pulls Jane into a tight hug, holding her close as if trying to give her all her strength and love. "You're not a burden to me, baby. We're a team. You don't have to go through this alone."
Jane hesitates, her eyes filled with fear and uncertainty. "I think… it might be that the bullet shifted. It feels different…"
"Baby, we really need to get this checked out. Let's run some tests at the institute tomorrow, and I'll go over the medical records with my team, okay? Maybe there's something we can do."
Jane sighs deeply and sets the dish sponge down. "Maura, I've been through this so many times. The doctors say it's too risky. Every time, I've had hope, and every time, it was crushed."
Maura stays calm but firm. "I understand your fear, and I know it's hard for you. But this time, you don't have to go through it alone. I'm here, and we'll face this together. You have nothing to lose."
Jane hesitates before nodding. She rests her head on Maura's shoulder and exhales deeply. "Thank you for being so persistent," she murmurs. "I don't know what I'd do without you."
xxx A Few Days Later xxx
Evening falls, and the apartment slowly fills with voices and laughter. The table is simply set, with candlelight dancing on the plain glasses and rustic dishes. A warm aroma of roasted chicken, fresh bread, and a simple salad fills the air, promising a cozy evening together.
Maura stands in the kitchen, finishing the final touches on dinner. Her movements are confident and familiar. Jane steps up beside her, gently placing a hand on her back. "It smells heavenly, baby," she whispers, giving her a quick, loving kiss on the cheek.
Frankie and Nina are the first to arrive. Soon after, Korsak and Kiki, along with Frost and Cavanaugh, join them. The atmosphere is light and cheerful, with the tension of the past weeks slowly easing with each greeting.
Once everyone is gathered, Maura brings the main dish to the table – roasted chicken with potatoes and vegetables. The conversation falls silent for a moment as everyone admires the simple but delicious meal. Jane takes her seat and raises her glass. "To the family that makes us stronger," she says, her voice steady and full of gratitude.
The meal proceeds in a warm, convivial atmosphere. Stories and anecdotes from past evenings and shared experiences are told, and the laughter is heartfelt and contagious. Maura watches the dynamic between Jane and her team, noticing how naturally and deeply their bond runs. It fills her with pride and love to be part of this self-made family.
After the last bite is eaten and the plates are cleared, they decide to continue the evening with a game night. "How about 'Risk'?" Korsak suggests, and the others nod enthusiastically. The board is set up, the armies distributed, and soon they are deep in heated strategic discussions and playful banter.
The players distribute their troops strategically across the world map, carefully selecting their conquests and forming alliances. Jane and Maura sit next to each other, their knees lightly touching. Jane repeatedly places a reassuring hand on Maura's back or hand, a quiet gesture of affection. Frost and Cavanaugh form an alliance, while Frankie is determined to conquer North America. Nina and Kiki laugh at Korsak's bold attempts to dominate Europe.
The game is full of intrigue, alliances, and surprises, and the living room echoes with laughter and occasional, playful arguments. Jane leads her troops with a mix of strategy and intuition, while Maura tries to secure her position in Asia.
The hours fly by, and as the game reaches its climax, Maura feels a deep sense of contentment rising within her. She watches as Jane discusses a daring strategy with Frankie, as Nina and Korsak debate the best move, and as Kiki quietly laughs after making an unexpected play. It's an evening full of small, precious moments that make the heavy times fade away.
At some point, Maura retreats to the kitchen to grab fresh drinks. Nina and Kiki follow her, and they find themselves in a moment of quiet away from the others. The kitchen is filled with warm light and the faint sounds of the game in the background.
Maura opens the fridge and grabs the drinks while Nina and Kiki lean against the counter. A moment of silence falls, only interrupted by the distant laughter of the others in the living room.
"It's nice to have everyone back together," Kiki remarks, taking a glass that Maura hands her. Maura nods in agreement as she fills the remaining glasses. She stands beside Nina and Kiki, watching Jane and her team.
Despite the cheerful atmosphere, Maura has noticed the gentle melancholy that surrounds the team. The conversations tonight are a bit quieter, the laughter not as exuberant as usual. The team members seem to handle each other more gently, as if aware of the weight each one carries.
Maura casts a thoughtful glance toward the room before speaking softly. "Do you also feel like this return was somehow harder?" she asks cautiously. The words hang in the air, and for a moment, a reflective silence follows.
Nina sets her glass down and sighs quietly. "Yeah, I've noticed it too. Frankie seems so… exhausted and sad. It's like he's carrying a burden he can't let go of."
Kiki nods slowly, her eyes becoming glassy. "Korsak was different this time too. Quiet and pensive, like he experienced something heavy that he can't shake."
Maura places a hand on Kiki's hand and looks at Nina. "Jane was the same. I wondered if it was just me, but apparently not. It's hard seeing her like this." She sighs and looks back toward the living room. "I wish I could do more to help Jane. But sometimes it feels like she pulls away, like she doesn't want to burden me."
Kiki and Nina nod sympathetically. "It's hard to be close to them when they build these walls," Kiki says quietly.
"But it's not the first time something like this has happened," Nina adds. "Every few years, there's a mission that weighs heavier on their shoulders. It takes a while, but they get through it. We just have to be there for them during this time."
Maura nods and, followed by the others, returns to the living room. When the game finally ends and the winners are crowned, everyone leans back, tired but happy. One by one, the guests say their goodbyes and head home. Maura and Jane remain, the living room still filled with the warmth and laughter of the evening. They begin tidying up together.
In the kitchen, a quiet, intimate atmosphere settles. Jane takes a plate from the table and places it in the sink, her movements slow and deliberate. Maura stands beside her, wiping down the counter, and notices Jane moving closer. She feels the warmth of Jane's body, sensing her presence before she even turns around.
"Thank you for such a wonderful evening," Jane whispers, placing a hand on Maura's hip. Her voice is full of emotion and gratitude. Maura turns to her, their eyes meeting and holding. It's a quiet moment, filled with unspoken feelings and deep connection.
Maura smiles gently and places her hand on Jane's. "I'm so glad you're home," she replies softly. Jane's thumb lightly strokes Maura's skin, a tender gesture expressing her deep affection.
Slowly, Jane leans in, her lips finding Maura's in a soft but passionate kiss. Maura's hands glide over Jane's back, pulling her closer as the kisses deepen. The world around them seems to fade, leaving just the two of them in this moment.
Jane gently lifts Maura onto the counter, her movements deliberate yet full of tenderness. Maura wraps her legs around Jane's hips, pulling her even closer. Their kisses grow deeper, hungrier, as Jane's hands softly trail over Maura's back and sides. Every touch feels like a promise, every gesture full of love and desire.
With slow, deliberate movements, Jane begins unbuttoning Maura's blouse, one button at a time, savoring the moment of intimacy. Her fingertips lightly graze Maura's skin, sending small shivers of anticipation through her body.
Maura's breath quickens, her eyes half-closing as Jane opens each button. The fabric slowly parts, revealing the soft skin beneath.
Jane pauses for a moment, her eyes roaming over Maura's body, before leaning in again to tenderly kiss Maura's neck. Her fingers continue their work, opening the next button, and then the next.
Jane takes her time, her movements calm and measured, as if she wants to savor every moment. When the last button is undone, the blouse slips from Maura's shoulders and falls to the floor. Jane steps closer, her lips finding Maura's again as her hands gently caress her back and hips.
"I love you," Maura whispers, her voice barely audible between kisses.
"I love you too," Jane replies, her voice just as soft but full of intensity.
With a smooth motion, Jane lifts Maura off the counter and carries her, secure and steady, through the apartment. The atmosphere is charged, the air crackling with tension and passion. Jane climbs the stairs with ease, carefully opening the bedroom door, stepping inside, and gently laying Maura down on the bed.
The candles in the room cast a warm, golden light on their faces as Jane leans down to kiss Maura again. Their kisses are slower now, more intense, as if they want to stop time and hold on to this moment forever.
Jane's hand softly strokes Maura's hair, her touch gentle, almost reverent. Maura pulls Jane closer, her hands exploring the familiar contours of Jane's body. They lose themselves in each other, the world around them fading away, replaced by the deep connection and love they share.
The night passes in a whirlwind of touches, kisses, and whispered words. They move in harmony, their bodies speaking a language only they understand. As the morning light begins to creep in, they lie entwined in bed, exhausted but content. Maura looks up at Jane, her eyes full of love. Jane smiles and kisses Maura gently on the forehead. "Thank you for being by my side."
xxx Four Days Later xxx
Morning breaks, and the first light of day floods the apartment. Jane has packed her bag after receiving an unexpected deployment order by phone early that morning. Maura had already left for an important meeting.
Jane stands alone in the living room, the warm light of the rising sun bathing the space in a golden glow. She's already dressed in her uniform, the one she will wear for this final mission. She glances at the clock. Being called to duty on her last day of active service is an unfortunate but not entirely surprising turn of events.
Her heart feels heavy, but she knows this will be the last time she has to leave. She walks into the kitchen, takes out a sheet of paper and a pen. Sitting at the table, she begins to write:
"I love you. I'm looking forward to our new beginning. J."
Jane carefully folds the note and places it on the table. Beside it, she sets down a single, deep red rose in a simple vase—something she had hurriedly picked up from the florist around the corner. The bloom is full and velvety, a symbol of her love and her promise to always return.
One last look at the apartment, her eyes lingering on the familiar objects that hold so many memories. The faint hum of the fridge, the light filtering through the curtains, the lingering scent of Maura's perfume in the air—home.
Jane takes a deep breath in and out, gathering all her courage and strength. She knows this is a goodbye, but also a promise of a shared future. With one final, tender smile, she turns and leaves the apartment.
Outside, it's quiet, only the distant chirping of birds and the soft rustle of the wind can be heard. The walk through the empty street feels long, each step echoing in the morning stillness. Jane glances back one more time, her gaze lingering on the windows of the house. Then she turns resolutely and continues forward, ready for her final mission.
