'If we find Murphy, then hopefully we'll find Crawford and they'll lead us to…' PJ could tell that Maggie wasn't listening to him. 'Maggie…Maggie' he shouted trying to get her attention, 'are you alright?'

'Hmmm?' Maggie looked up.

'Are you alright? You look a little pale.' PJ asked.

She scrubbed her hands over her face. 'Yeah, I'm OK. Well, I am feeling a bit off. Maybe it was something I ate.'

'Something you ate?'

Maggie gave him a weak smile. 'Yeah, Dash cooked last night, maybe it was just too spicy for me or something'

'Or something' PJ was not convinced. 'OK. Are you ok to come with me to Cunningham's Lane? I want to follow up on that lead about Crawford's whereabouts on the night of the first robbery?'

PJ and Maggie had spent the last week following a trail of home burglaries where only item stolen was men's clothing. It seemed odd but the last burglary had included the theft of a man's watch which had turn up at Benny Danders second hand shop.

Maggie stood up, more slowly than usual. 'Yeah, sure. Just let me splash some water on my face'.

PJ followed her out to where the washrooms were at the station.

The lead turned out to be nothing more than a steer in the wrong direction. Crawford and Murphy were proving to be quite elusive and more PJ worked on the case, the more doubts surrounding their involvement was raised, their alibis although not water tight, kept checking for each of the robberies. He took it as a sign that perhaps his investigation needed to go back to the beginning. He needed to recheck the facts. Maggie's lack of enthusiasm for spending time with him was not helping. She normally jumped at the chance to spend time alone with him in the car. But things had become complicated following their confessions made while they were stuck in the mine shaft. While both had shared their feelings with the other and share the most intimate of moments, PJ just could not convince Maggie to take the leap of faith to be with him. He had decided that he had been patient this far and Maggie was worth waiting for. Perhaps he could convince her that he was worth taking a chance on even if there seemed to be obstacles in their way.

Three days later, Maggie sat nervously waiting in the doctor's waiting room. She had the day off and given that she was still feeling out of sorts, decided that it was time to get check out by Dr Hamilton. Dr Zoe Hamilton had been in Mt Thomas for a few years now and was a very trusted doctor. She had come to be well known to the local Mt Thomas Police, mostly due to her attraction to Snr Constable Nick Schultz. Maggie always enjoyed watching Nick squirm even at the mere mention of Dr Hamilton's name. Secretly she thought that they made the perfect match but understood Nick's reluctance to make a commitment.

'Maggie' called Dr Hamilton

Maggie followed Dr Hamilton into the consultation room. Hoping that she was just run down or had a bit of a virus. After the usual questions about how much sleep she was getting and whether she was eating right, Dr Hamilton surprised Maggie by asking her if there was any chance that she was pregnant.

'Pregnant…I can't be pregnant' Maggie started to think about that mine shaft.

"When was your last period?' Dr Hamilton asked.

'Umm…well I am not sure. I have been feeling so tired. I have not really paid much attention'

'Well, let's do a few tests then. Can you provide a urine sample?'

Maggie took the little bottle from Dr Hamilton and headed toward the toilet. She was busy trying to think how long it had been since her last period. What was she going to do if she was pregnant? Maggie returned to Dr Hamilton's consultation room a few moments later. Watching as Dr Hamilton tested the sample, counting down the seconds until the results would be known.

'Well, Maggie this test is positive. You're pregnant'

'Are you sure?'

'Well, we can do a blood test to be sure, but these tests are very accurate. I take it this is not a planned pregnancy.'

'Yeah you could say that. I mean don't get me wrong, I have always wanted to have kids someday but after I'm married and settled. Not like this…suddenly and out of the blue'

'You're not seeing anyone…the father?' Maggie could see Dr Hamilton's raised eyebrow and questioning look on her face.

'Umm, no I'm not seeing anyone but there is this one guy…and we…well you know...just one time and in very strange circumstances'.

'Well you'll need time to take this all in. I am here if you need to talk. When you are ready we can discuss the next steps…options…follow up appointments'. Zoe was a little curious, when working Maggie and PJ were never far apart. She wondered if perhaps their working relationship had boiled over to something more personal. Zoe decided to test her theory.

'Maybe you can bring PJ with you next time?'

'Huh, what…why PJ? Why would I bring PJ to my doctor's appointment?'

'Well you guys are obviously very close, I've often wondered if there was something more between you guys'

'We work together'

'Just work…I haven't seen you with any other guys Maggie?'

'Well…there was this one time…' Maggie voice trailed off

'C'mon Maggie, you're not fooling me or Nick for that matter. These strange circumstances…do they include a mine shaft…the timing is about right'

Maggie just looked at Dr Hamilton with a slight laugh.

'C'mon, you guys would be great together...what's the problem? You would make a great couple Maggie'.

'But we are not a couple and we work together and then there is the job...what would the boss think?'

'Are you sure he doesn't already know how you two feel about each other. Everyone suspects you guys have feelings for each other'

'They do…How?'

'Maggie, you and PJ give each other these little looks, a smile here and there, I've seen it at the pub, whenever you are together...there is some kind of buzz…electricity'

'Zoe stop it…you're teasing'

'Maybe, but you have lots to consider'

'A baby, huh' Maggie looked at the positive pregnancy test.

'Yep, call me Maggie if you need to talk'

'Thanks, Zoe'

Dr Hamilton wondered if she was overstepped her boundaries as Maggie's doctor, friend and secret cheerleader for a Maggie and PJ relationship to eventuate.

Maggie left the hospital, she thought about heading straight to the station to track PJ down but instead she wandered around the local botanical gardens for an hour trying to let the news sink in.

……….

A few days later, PJ walked into the locker room to see Maggie siting down, with her head practically between her knees. She straightened up when he walked in.

'Maggie, are you ok? Did Dash try cooking again last night?'

'What? Ah, no, no, she didn't'

'You don't look so good'

'I'm fine'

PJ tried to catch her eye but she avoided his gaze.

'Maggie, are you….'

'Don't fuss, ok. I said I'm fine. Come on, we'd better get out to the McKinley farm or the boss will go spare'

Once again, PJ wasn't convinced. He followed her out to the car, the frown on his face remained.

As they headed out to the McKinley farm, Maggie found herself day dreaming about life with a baby, life with PJ, whether they would be able to make things work, would she end up a single mother, juggling career and child care. She was snapped back to reality when PJ announced their arrival.

Beth McKinley met them at the front door. She had called the station to report stolen clothes from her washing line. Very strange that only men's clothing had be taken. Charlie was going to be flabbergasting when he discovered that his laundry was missing a pair of jeans and several shirts.

'Hey Maggie, PJ, how are you?'

'Great, thanks Mrs Mac'.

Maggie gave Mrs McKinley a big hug. Beth McKinley was the town's favourite mum and always there when anyone needed anything. Maggie was very familiar with Mrs McKinley and her maternal ways. Sharing a house with Mrs McKinley's youngest, Dash, had made Mrs McKinley a regular visitor at her house. Maggie didn't mind, Mrs McKinley never turned up empty handed. She would arrive with a casserole or two every time she visited.

'So how is Charlie going to handle the fact that someone else is wearing his favourite jeans?' PJ asked

'I have no idea' Mrs McKinnley replied. 'Come inside'

Maggie and PJ entered the house. Maggie instantly felt at home, it smelt as if an apple pie was cooking in the oven.

'Been cooking Mrs McKinley?'

'Maggie, call me Beth. So what's news? Dash said you've been a little under the weather'

'I'm ok thanks Mrs Mc...Beth, just working too much. A bit run down'

'Well you make sure you take care of yourself' Mrs McKinley gave PJ a knowing glance. 'Give her a break from time to time hey?'

PJ felt suitably told off just by Mrs McKinley's look in his direction. PJ looked at Maggie wondering what Maggie's relationship with her own mother had been like before she had passed away. Maggie's mother, Kathleen, had died from breast cancer when she was still at the Police Academy. PJ was very close to his mother but had to admit that he didn't spend as much time with her as he would have liked since he had been in Mt Thomas. Plus his own conversations with his mother always ended by her asking when he was going to get married and have kids.

Mrs McKinley showed Maggie and PJ the scene of the crime. Nothing of note really except the missing spot of the washing line showing where Charlie's pants and shirts use to be. Mrs Kinley hadn't seen anything but had heard a trail bike going past at about the right time. Maggie and PJ took note, before heading back to the station.

On the way back to the station, PJ and Maggie engaged in their usual banter until PJ started questioning Maggie about her health.

'Mags, you still feeling off color?'

'Yeah, still feeling a bit run down, I'm heading back to see Dr Hamilton tomorrow'.

Maggie knew her time for telling PJ that he was going to be a father was running out, but she couldn't find the right time.

--

The next day Maggie headed back to see Dr Hamilton. Her blood test results were back confirming her pregnancy. Zoe gave Maggie some information about pregnancy care and arranged her first ultrasound in a few weeks.

'You didn't bring PJ with you?'

"I haven't told him yet'

'Maggie, you need support, he'll be there for you if you ask'

'I know, I know, he'll get so clingy and over protective, I just need time to get use of…of this'

'This is a pregnancy Maggie, which would be difficult on your own given your line of work. Now don't get me wrong I am all for independent woman. But you may need support'

'Zoe, its ok...I'll tell him…I'll tell him tonight'.

'Here's you appointment card'

'Thanks'

It was late in the afternoon, but Maggie headed back to the station to finish off a report she had been working on. The boss was still in his office when she got back, but the office was empty.

'Maggie, what are you doing back here? The others have already headed to the pub for a drink'

'Oh ok, I'm not really in the mood'

'You ok? You seem a bit distracted'

'Yeah…boss, can I ask you something?'

'Sure'

'If had news to share with someone that you know is going to change everything, how would you do it?'

Tom looked at Maggie closely. He knew she had something on her mind, she had seemed unusually distracted for the past few days but it hadn't impacted her work. Maggie was always reliable. She was a valuable member of the team and worked well with PJ. Tom worried if there was something more than just good work colleagues. While workplace relationships were not recommended they were not unheard of. Who better to understand the stresses of a police career better than another police officer? Tom thought that Maggie and PJ were destined to share something special they just needed to admit it to each other.

'Well that depends on what sort of news it is, are you ok?'

'Yeah boss, its good news…I think…just unexpected'

'Well, the longer you put it off the hard it will become. Maybe you just have to bite the bullet. The other person's response could surprise you. Is there something you want to tell me?'

'In time, maybe, boss…but there someone else I need to talk to first, thank you'

--

Maggie left the station to head home. She wanted to get changed before she head out to find PJ. Maggie went to the pub first, but Chris told her that PJ hadn't been in. Dash, Adam and Nick were on their second drinks they asked Maggie to join them but she brushed them off and headed to PJ's house.

Maggie knocked on the familiar door. PJ answered.

'Hi'

'Hi'

They just stared at each other.

'Well aren't gong to ask me in?'

'Sorry, of course, come in, how are you?'

'I'm good…good. How did you go with that abandoned trail bike?'

'Yeah, stolen…just waiting for the fingerprints to come back. So what's up Mags?'

'I ..umm…need to talk to you about something…need to tell you something'

PJ studied Maggie's face, she looked concerned. PJ knew that there was something on her mind. Maggie had been unusually quiet for the past few days and she wouldn't open up to him despite his best efforts to get her to talk to him.

'Well, come in, sit down. What's wrong…Maggie'

'Um…I'm not sure how to tell you this…I've been thinking…' Maggie sat uncomfortably on the couch. She looked around the lounge room, trying to find the right words, trying to figure out if a baby fitted into PJ's life as a bachelor.

'Maggie?...Are you ok...what's going on' PJ hoped that she had had a change of mind and that she did want to consider a future together. The silence was deafening, 'Maggie…', Maggie took a deep breath.

'Pregnant'

'What?'

'Pregnant…PJ…I'm pregnant'

'Huh'

'PJ, I'm pregnant, I'm having a baby' She said impatiently. PJ was in shock, he didn't know what to say.

'It's my baby?'

'Of course, it's your baby, I'm not in the habit of sleeping around, PJ' She responded angrily.

'No, of course not, sorry, sorry I didn't mean that. But we've only done it…one time…so…in the mine shaft…when we…' PJ raised his hand to rub his head in disbelief.

'Yeah, I know I'm still in shock too'

'Maggie, a baby, are you ok?'

'Yeah, I'm ok, I mean a feel sick all the time…'

PJ pulled her into a hug. 'A baby'. PJ had been wanting so long to be with Maggie and of course he hoped for a long term future that included marriage and babies but he knew that this was a shock and it was going to change their worlds in more ways than he could imagine.

'So, how many weeks?'

'Seven weeks. I have my first ultrasound booked in a couple weeks'

'Can I come with you?

'Of course, Zoe wanted me to bring you when I went to see her this afternoon'

'Zoe knows I'm the dad?'

'She guessed, apparently the whole of Mt Thomas is secretly hoping that we end up together. They have their own little cheer squad'

PJ grinned at Maggie. 'Do they, I wonder who is the captain?' PJ was teasing her. 'Well you know I agree with them'

'PJ…' Maggie tried to stop him from speaking. PJ sat down beside her, his hand on her leg.

'Mags, we have something special, I know there are obstacles...the job...the boss...but…wow a baby. But they're only obstacles if we let them be' PJ studied Maggie's face, trying to work out what she was thinking.

"PJ, I want everything that you want but…'

'But nothing, Maggie, we belong together, I don't care about the job, I'd quit if that's what you want me to do. I'll get a transfer...Tell me you don't feel the same way'

'…PJ, I do feel the same way, I want this baby, I want this baby with you, together with you…but'

PJ pulled Maggie in for a kiss if only to stop her from talking. He felt her relax as their kiss deepened.

'Maggie, I love you'

'I love you too'

He knew it was all going to work out. Taking each step at a time he knew that they would work through everything.

Weeks passed by, Maggie and PJ were happily working through the early stages of their relationship and getting use of impending parenthood. Maggie continued to struggle with regular morning sickness. She was running out of excuses and stories to tell her colleagues why she needed such regular bathroom breaks. Maggie and PJ knew that they were running of time and that they would need to tell their colleagues, family and friends and despite the possible spilt of their working relationship. They knew that they were going to have to tell the boss first, but how to tell him was weighing heavily on their minds.

'Why don't we just go to his house and tell him?' PJ said one night to Maggie. Maggie was sitting on the couch after returning from the toilet.

'Why do they call it morning sickness, when it lasts all day!' she exclaimed.

'Maybe Dr Hamilton can prescribe something to help'

"I'll ask her tomorrow after the ultrasound. Are you ready to see your baby for the first time?'

'Of course'

'Do you reckon the Boss was suspicious of us taking the same afternoon off?' Maggie asked.

'Nah, plus I report to CI in St David's. I told them I had an appointment in the city. It'll be fine'

'Why don't we go talk to the Boss after the ultrasound?'

'OK'. PJ smiled at Maggie, he wondered how tomorrow was going to turn. While Maggie was 100% convinced that they would end up separated, PJ knew that there wasn't any official restrictions that meant they could be involved personally and work together plus he knew the Boss had a soft spot for Maggie. The Boss treated her as one of his own daughters and PJ knew that the Boss would hate to lose Maggie to another police station.

A new day dawned, it was a quiet morning for the sleepy town of Mt Thomas until Leila Clegg and Merv walked through the door.

'Hi Leila' Maggie said as she greet Leila at the front counter. 'How can we help you today?'

Merv appeared less than impressed to being dragged into the police station. 'Leila, we are wasting constable's time'. PJ appeared from his office.

'Merv, its ok, what's going on?'

'Maggie dear, Merv is a little embarrassed'

'Well come through to the interview room'. Maggie showed Leila and Merv through to the interview room, PJ followed closely behind.

'What's the problem?'

'I don't like to say in front of the young constable'

'Merv, its fine'

'Oh, alright, someone has been stealing from my clothes line'

Maggie and PJ looked at each other, a little perplexed, having caught the thieves a few days go and no reports or thefts for a week. Maggie and PJ were convinced that the case was closed.

'What's been stolen, Merv?' PJ asked

'My best trousers, a shirt, singlet and two pairs of….well you know….undergarments'

'Underpants?' PJ questioned. He was trying to keep a straight face. 'Who'd steal you underpants, Merv?'

'I don't know, you're the police, you work it out. I didn't even want to come in here today but Leila made me'

'Alright, Maggie and I better come out and have a look at the crime scene. We'll meet you at your house is about 5 minutes, OK'

Merv, Leila, Maggie and PJ left the room as Merv grumbled something to Leila. She gave him the hurry up out the front door of the police station, waving to the Boss as she went.

'Hey Tommy, these two are worth their weight in gold' Leila said as she gestured towards Maggie and PJ.

'Everything alright, Leila?' the Boss asked

'All good, Maggie and PJ will figure it out, thanks'. Leila and Merv disappeared out the door.

'What's going on' the Boss asked

'More stolen clothes'

"I thought we caught those guys?'

'Who knows Boss, Maggie and I are going to check it out'

'Alright, can you grab the lunches on the way back'

'Sure thing Boss'

Despite leaving the station only a few minutes after Leila and Merv, Maggie and PJ's journey took at least 15 minutes longer after Maggie needed a stop to throw up. It was only the second time today, but she was exhausted and hanging out to finishing her shift so she could head to the hospital for her appointment with Dr Hamilton.

When Maggie and PJ eventually arrived, they received the third degree about the tardiness and importance of being on time and given the severity of the crime that Leila and Merv had reported, they were understandable apologetic. Once again there wasn't much to look at except the missing spots on the washing line, however after a closer look around Merv's backyard, they discovered a number of footprints, a trail which lead to the back alley way. The trail went cold after three house but headed in the direction of the main street of Mt Thomas and everyone favorite pub, the Imperial. Knowing that they heading to the pub to collect the lunches anyway they agreed to question Chris, the publican, about any strange characters wandering around town. Chris was a trusted source of information, someone the Mt Thomas police relied on the past.

'Hey, you two, here for the lunches' Chris greeted Maggie and PJ

'Yes, Chris' Maggie responded by taking a seat at the bar, despite being on duty and in uniform.

'Are you ok? You look like death'

'Geez, thanks Chris, just a bit tired, looking forward to the end of shift'. Chris noticed that PJ hovered protectively behind Maggie. This was not unusual but Chris noticed that they seemed closer than ever in the last few weeks, never far apart from each other when at the pub, always looking out for each other. Chris was another member of the Maggie and PJ cheer squad, perhaps even the unofficially president. She had had many a conversation with the town folk about the on-going suspicions most people shared mostly with Dash McKinley who was also very suspicious.

'Chrissy, seen anyone strangers hanging around lately?'

'C'mon PJ, there are strange people in here all the time, can you be a bit more specific?' PJ leaned in to quietly tell Chris that Merv had lost some items from his clothes line earlier that day. PJ always a man of discretion didn't want everyone to learn of Merv's predicament. God knows the way town gossip travelled around this town, it would take exactly 5.2 seconds for the whole place to find out that Merv had had his underwear taken off the back line.

'Well there was one guy, walking around town, in a trench cost, told me he was looking for work, I didn't have anything to offer him. Wasn't local, look very unkempt, homeless maybe, not sure PJ'

'Thanks Chrissy'. PJ picked up the box of lunches and headed back to the station.

As 2 o'clock rolled around, PJ and Maggie finished off their shift, leaving the station through separate exits and meeting up at Maggie's house. With Dash still at work, they knew that they could safety enjoy each other company for a couple of hours uninterrupted before heading to the hospital.

Maggie sat waiting for her name to be called, PJ was quite nervous, fidgeting in his seat next to him.

'You, ok' Maggie asked him.

'Yep, fine…are you ok?'

'Yes' Maggie smiled at him, and gave his arm a squeeze. It that moment she loved him more than she ever had. She recognized the joy he was feeling about becoming a parent but also the uncertainty, the nervousness. Were they really ready to be parents so early into their relationship, a relationship that seemed on fast forward because she was pregnant? Ready or not baby Hasham was on his or her way and they were just going to have get onboard the roller coaster that came with parenthood.

'Maggie Doyle?' The nurse called her name. Maggie rose from her seat, tugging at PJ's arm to follow her. Dr Hamilton met them in the examination room.

'Maggie, take a seat, brought a friend with you I see'

'Yes, he's a little nervous'

'Don't worry PJ you won't feel a thing'. Dr Hamilton spent the next 10 minutes examining Maggie, taking her vital signs asking her questions about her pregnancy. They discussed her morning sickness. Dr Hamilton explained that once Maggie reached her second trimester, that the nausea and vomiting should significantly reduce but prescribed her some anti-nausea medication to help.

'So, PJ how do you feel about becoming a father?'

'Well, it's a bit of a shock Zoe, but I'm sure we'll be fine'

'Ready for baby's first picture?' Dr Hamilton reached for the ultrasound wand, ready to place it over Maggie's belly.

'This won't hurt the baby?' PJ asked

'No, PJ it's perfectly safe' PJ squeezed Maggie's hand as they both watched at their little baby come into view on the screen Dr Hamilton had turned around so they could watch.

'And they we have a little baby, two arms, two legs, and a nice strong heart beat'

'It that's a…' PJ asked squinting at the screen

'Too soon to see baby's gender, PJ. At the 20 week ultrasound we may be able to tell, but that depends on baby's position. Some are too shy to show what's between their legs' Maggie and PJ laughed. Maggie wasn't sure she wanted to find out. She liked the idea of it being a surprise.

Maggie and PJ left the hospital with an ultrasound picture in their hands and an excitement and uncertainty of what the next few months would bring them.

'We need to tell the Boss' Maggie stated. She was so matter of fact about that PJ felt that there was no use arguing. So long as Maggie was sure, he was on board and ready to share their happy news.

'Well, we can go and see him at the station or did you want to go speak to him when he gets home?'

'Let's go and see him at the station, before I chicken out'

When Maggie and PJ arrived at the station, they could see that the Boss's car was the only one left which was a relief, a nice quiet station to share their happy news.

Tom looked up from his desk when heard someone coming through the front door. He looked up to see Maggie and PJ walking in holding hands. Tom knew that this day was coming, Maggie and PJ had been dancing around their feelings for each other for months. By the looks of things they had finally be able to admit to each other just how much they cared for each other.

'Maggie, PJ, everything ok?' Tom asked

'Yeah Boss, everything is good, can we have a chat?' Maggie said.

'Sure, come in'

Maggie was unsure how to begin. 'Boss, PJ and I…'

'Yes'

'We…umm…I don't know how to say this'

'C'mon Doyle, you and PJ just walk in here hand in hand, I assume that you here to tell me that you are in a relationship or something'. PJ jumped in.

'Boss, Maggie and I have a been hiding our feelings for each other for a little while now'

'For a little while, you don't say' Tom smiled at them both. 'The whole station knows that you too are very close'

'Well, yeah' Maggie started to explain but the Boss cut her off before she could share their exciting news.

'I personally are very happy for you two, but office relationships are frown upon, you two know this'

'It's more than just a relationship, Boss' Maggie gave PJ a knowing glance. 'Maggie's pregnant, Boss. We're going to be a family'. The room was silent for a few moments.

'A baby…well that's great news…you guys are happy about this?'

'Of course we are boss, I mean we are shocked but happy' Tom jumped out of his seat to give Maggie a big hug and PJ the obligatory manly handshake.

'Congratulations, I'm so very happy for you both. That's fantastic…well I feel like I'm going to be a grandfather again…you know what a mean a surrogate in anyway…you know what I mean…How's Pat taking the news?'

'We haven't told him yet, apart from Zoe, you are the only other person that knows. It's been a bit of a shock and we were just so worried about what this means for our careers, there's been so much to consider and think about and of course, I can't stop throwing up' Maggie was rambling.

'Yes, well I had noticed the extra trips to the bathroom'

'Boss I just want you to know that I won't…we won't let this impact the job'

'Well, Doyle I appreciate you saying that, but this will change the job for you, for both of you, becoming a parent changes who you are, your priorities but I know that you are both very capable officers and you will always perform your duties to the best of your abilities. I have no intention of breaking you two up as a working team, you are both very good at what you do'

'Thanks Boss'

'Look we'll take it one day at a time. We can figure out work schedules and days off as needed, it will all work out' Maggie was a little perplexed but happy that the Boss was being so accommodating.

'Well shall we go to the pub to celebrate? Just OJ for you' PJ said pointing at Maggie.

'Yeah c'mon'. The three of them heading down to the pub to meet up with the others. When they arrived Nick and Adam were playing darts, Zoe hanging out to the side, watching, she had been waiting for an announcement, maybe tonight was the night. Dash was at the bar gossiping with Chris about the latest rumors around town. Maggie and PJ walked in behind the Boss.

'Big announcement everyone' the Boss brought everyone to attention but most already could tell from the wide grins across their faces, Maggie and PJ hand in hand.

'What, your not going to tell us finally the detective and his favorite blond senior constable have figured out that they are made for each other, are you boss?' Nick always had a way with words, life of the party but very sensitive soul.

'Well their body language speaks for itself, but they have some other news to share'. PJ stepped forward, Maggie whispered something in his ear.

'Yes, the lovely Maggie Doyle has fallen for my charms…at last…but we are going to be parents'

PJ spoke the words in such a loving manner, that the sweetest smile light up Maggie's face, he kissed her gently. Everyone on the pub had their eyes glued to them. A collectively 'Awww' filled the room and for once Nick had no smart arse come back.

'What I was not expecting that, you're a fast worker Hasham'. Nick gave Maggie a big hug and shook PJ's hand. Nick whispered in PJ's ear 'Aren't you in trouble with Pat, got his princess up the duff and you aren't even married'

'Don't remind me' PJ responded but his happiness couldn't be dampened by Pat Doyle's impending reaction even after he had given PJ a warning to not get any funny ideas about his daughter.

The whole pub was suddenly reaching for champagne glasses and ordering drinks. PJ saw Dash plant 20 bucks in Nick's hand, it seems she had lost the bet over their relationship.

Maggie's pregnancy progressed smoothly until the time came that she had to go on maternity leave.

'But I feel fine PJ, I can continue working, what are am I going to do at home, I'll be bored, yes?'

'Maggie, you need to rest a little before the baby arrives, there's no way the Boss is going to let you work any longer, you've pushed it to the limit. Time to stop being a police officer and focus on being a mum'

Maggie and PJ had been arguing for days about her pending maternity leave. Adamant they she wanted to work for as long as possible Maggie had dug her heels in, but in the end Police Service won out regulations dictated the time for Maggie's leave to start and that was today. Maggie had to concede defeat. She knew that working so close to her due date was falling on deaf ears plus once the Boss had quoted regulations at her she begrudgingly agreed to finish work.

PJ was still given her a lecture and they walk in the door of her home.

'Ok, ok, I give up, I'll rest, starting from now, can you go and get some Chinese take away for dinner?'

'Sure, you're usual'

'Yes, thank you'

Maggie sat and contemplated what she was going to do while PJ was gone. She looked around to find that the overhead cupboards looked a little dusty. By the time PJ got home, Maggie was in full swing cleaning the kitchen, every cupboard had been emptied and was being wiped out.'

'What are you doing?'

'Cleaning, look at this dirt'

'Maggie, this is not resting'

'No, but it needs doing and I won't have the time after the baby arrives' PJ let her go, watching closely as she continually tried to stand on a chair to reach the top cupboard. His mum had reminded him to watch out for the nesting phase of pregnancy, it meant the baby's birth was right around the corner. Maggie had cleaned out all the station's cupboards to the point that no one could find anything. She had given her replacement the world's most detailed handover, she had be meticulous with her notes and instructions.

PJ helped her finish the kitchen cupboards before ordering her to the shower and then bed. He went to bed thinking if tomorrow would be the day they baby arrived.

The next morning, PJ woke, Maggie was still asleep, he managed to hide the receipt for an important piece of jewellery which he had on layby. One payment to go as he stuffed he receipt in his back pocket just as Maggie stirred.

'Hey, I'm off to work, you ok?'

'Yeah, PJ, I'm fine, I'll call if anything happens'

'Ok' He gave her a kiss before heading out the door.

Maggie got out of bed, her back was aching so she decided to have a shower. She spent the morning wandering around the house, what can I do she wondered. The baby nursery was already set up, PJ had spent hours frustratingly putting together the crib, Nick had had to come to the rescue. Maggie was too uncomfortable to sit, so she decided a walk was in order. Not use to having nothing to do, a casual walk led her straight to the police station. As soon as she walked through the door, there was a chorus of voices telling her to go home, put her feet up and get some rest. She ignored them all, headed straight to PJ's office.

'What are you doing here?'

'Nice to see you too'

'Sorry, I didn't mean that' PJ gave Maggie a kiss on the cheek.

'I'm so bored at home, I can't sit, I'm uncomfortable, my back aches, and I just needed to get out of the house'

'You just started maternity leave, it only the first day'

'I'm bored PJ, surely you have something for me to do, don't tell the boss, but surely there is something I can do'

'No, absolutely not, no police work'

'You're no fun'

'Home to rest, I'll there for lunch, ok?'

'Ok, I get the message' Maggie headed out of PJ's office.

'Dash give Maggie a lift home'

'Nah its ok, I prefer to walk'

'Ok, I'll be home soon'

'I don't need you checking up on me' Maggie yelled as she headed out of the station. She headed in the direction of the Imperial, maybe Chris had something for her to do. As she saw the pub come into sight, she felt a cramp, wow she thought that one hurt. She had had a few pains earlier that morning but the shower had soothe them. She pushed on the pub where she found Chris busy working the bar. She looked busy but Chris was never not busy, she juggled the pub and being a councilor with ease.

'Hi Maggie, how are you? Shouldn't you be at home resting?'

'Don't you start! That's all I've heard for the guys at the station'

'You've been to the station this morning, aren't you supposed to be on maternity leave'

'I'm bored Chris, I've got nothing left to clean at home, I went to the station to help out but they won't listen to me. I'm pregnant not sick, I can still be a very capable police woman'

'I'm sure you can but they don't want you having a baby out on patrol hey?'

'Suppose not'

'What some lunch?'

'Something light, not that hungry' Maggie shifted in her seat.

'You ok? Do I need to get Zoe?'

'No, I'm ok, just got a sore back and I'm so uncomfortable, can't sit, need to stand up or walk around'

'Maggie come and sit in the parlor, the seats are more comfortable in there' Chris secretly wanted Maggie out of ear shot before ringing PJ just to check that Maggie didn't need a checkup from Zoe. Chris suspected she might be in the early stages of labour.

PJ answered the phone, 'Hey Chrissy whats up'

'I've got Maggie here at the pub'

'What's wrong?'

'Nothing, calm down, but does she need a checkup from Zoe? She's complaining about her back and she can't sit still'

'Zoe thought baby was sitting in an awkward position but she still has two weeks to go. I might drop in anyway, get the lunches'

'Ok, see you soon'

PJ arrived a short time later, Maggie was still in the Parlor but now she was standing and rocking back and forth.

'Hey, what are you doing here?'

'Don't know, just needed a walk and someone to chat to, but I can see Chris has dobbed me in because now here you are'

'Maggie, how often are you having contractions? PJ looked at Maggie.

'I'm not…' she started to say as a she felt a pain across her stomach. She stopped to breathe. She had been having regular pain all morning but it was nothing serious, she felt ok. The pain in her back bothered her more and she couldn't bear to sit down.

'I'm ok'

'Maggie you're swaying back and forth'

'It helps with the pain…' the realization hit her, maybe she was in labour. 'I need to go to the hospital, don't I?"

'Yep, even if it's just to get checked out'

'Ok'

'Ok, let me go get the car'

'PJ wait…' At the moment Maggie's waters broke, she grabbed PJ's arm.

'Chrissy…' PJ threw his keys at Chrissy, 'can you bring the car around?'

'Len, you're in charge' Chris yelled as she headed out the door to get PJ's car. Dash and Nick were headed in. 'Baby Hasham is on his/her way' she yelled at them. PJ was helping Maggie through the bar and out the door.

'Geez that looks like it's happening fast'

'I told ya' Dash said to Nick. Dash had been telling her mum about Maggie's on-going need to clean. A clear sign of nesting she had said. The baby will be born before the week's out she'd told Dash. Mrs Mc should know, she had had 9 kids and countless grandchildren.

'Wanna bet it's a boy'

'Nah no way, girl'

'20?'

'Sure' Easiest 20 she'll make Dash thought to herself, she had taken a peak at the ultrasound picture.

Maggie and PJ made it to the hospital. PJ was unusually calm, Maggie not so much. She didn't have her hospital bag and sound machine, none of the baby's things. Chris managed to calm her down.

'It's ok, Maggie, let me go to your house and get your things, I'll be there and back in 15 minutes'

'Ok'

PJ had managed to find Dr Hamilton. Although obstetrics was not her specialty she had deliver a few babies in Mt Thomas but this one was extra special.

'Maggie's isn't very calm' PJ told her.

'It's ok, let's get her settled in the delivery room so I can examine her see how far along she is. Hi Maggie, how are you?'

'Don't know Zoe, the contractions are coming pretty close together'

'Ok, let's go'

Maggie was wheeled to the delivery room. It was clear to Dr Hamilton and Maggie's labour was far more progressed than anyone suspected. After examining Maggie, Dr Hamilton confirmed her suspicions.

'Maggie, baby is well engaged, you're almost fully dilated'

'I need to walk around Zoe, it's too uncomfortable'

'Ok, just within the room, ok'

PJ looked worried. 'It's ok Mags, just take it easy'

'Easy for you to say, you not about to squeeze a baby out of your…OK' Maggie was breathing heavily, stopping each few steps she took, 'PJ it hurts'

'I know. Zoe can she have any pain relief?'

'It's too late for epidural, we can try some gas' Maggie grabbed the tube from the nurse. 'Just breathe in slowly Maggie'

The gas wasn't helping. PJ rubbing her back felt much better. 'Just keep doing that PJ, don't stop'

It wasn't long before Maggie was trying her hardest to push her baby out. PJ was tucked in behind her, supporting her all the way.

'C'mon Mags, you can do this, you're the strongest woman I know'

'Shut up, shut up, I need to concentrate'

'Ok Maggie reach down and feel your baby's head, one more big push and your baby's head will be born' Maggie reached down, she could feel the top of her baby's head, she pushed with all her strength. 'Ok Maggie that's go ok, give me another big push on the next contraction, ready and go'

Maggie pushed and pushed, and then just like that the sudden relief, her baby was born. Zoe lifted the baby into Maggie's arms.

'What is it?' Maggie asked

'See for yourself'

'It's a girl, PJ we have a little girl' PJ kissed Maggie on the top of her head as he hugged her and the baby.

'PJ, do you want to cut the umbilical cord?' PJ reach around Maggie to grabbed the scissors and cut the cord. The nurse placed a blanket over Maggie and PJ's little girl, giving her a rub which made her start cry.

'Oh baby girl it's alright' Maggie whispered in her daughter's ear. Everyone in the room smiled at the new family and the excitement the town of Mt Thomas would feel for the arrival of this baby girl.

Word of Maggie and PJ's baby arriving had spread quickly around town. PJ rang Tom Croydon first.

'Hey Boss, Maggie had the baby'

'Congratulations PJ'

'Yeah, a little girl, no name yet, both mum and baby doing very well'

'That's great to hear'

'Thanks Tom, can you tell the others?'

'Of course'

'Ok, speak soon'

Of course the Boss didn't need to tell the others, they were all hanging around the door of his office.

'Yes, yes, Maggie had the baby, a little girl, everyone is happy and healthy, PJ sounds a little stressed'

'Ha, a baby girl, told ya Schultzy, now pay up' Dash had won her 20 bucks after betting Nick is was a girl.

'Ha ok, God works in mysterious ways, he's given PJ a daughter, imagine his reaction when she starts dating'

'So what did they call her?'

'No name yet, no further details, maybe when we visit at the hospital' said the Boss as he headed out the station.

'Where are you going?' Dash asked him

'Hospital, I'm pulling rank, going to get a cuddle, Nick keep this lot in line til the end of shift will ya'

When the boss arrived at the hospital, holding a bunch of flowers and pink teddy bear, he found Maggie sitting up in bed holding her newborn daughter, PJ sitting on the bed next to his girls. The boss poked his head in the door.

'Can i come in?'

'Boss, of course' Maggie held a little bundle, a wisp of dark hair poked out from her little pink hat. She leaned forward to show the Boss.

'Oh Maggie, she's beautiful, the boss gave PJ the flowers and teddy bear while Maggie handing him the baby for a cuddle.

'Lucky she looks like her mum hey PJ'

'Yes, definitely takes after Maggie'

'Pat heard the good news?'

'Yeah, on his way up so is PJ's mum. Can't wait to show her to her grandparents'

'She's a lucky little girl! Does she have a name yet?' Tom asked.

'Still under debate' Maggie wanted to call her Helene after PJ's mum but PJ liked the classics, Carolyn, Katherine or Elizabeth.

'I'm sure you'll come up with something, hey beautiful' Maggie and PJ's baby gave a little cry. 'Now c'mon dont make uncle Tom look bad, you wanna go back to mum hey' Tom handed the bay back to Maggie. 'There you go. Well guys I won't sty long, juat wanted to say congratulations, enjoy your new arrival'. Tom gave Maggie a kiss and shook PJ's hand before heading out the door.

'Thanks Boss'

A wave of visitors came and went for the rest of the afternoon. Grandpa Pat held his granddaughter tight wishing that Kathleen had been there to help Maggie in her new role as a mum. Maggie took a little rest while PJ took his mum to their place. When he got back Maggie was sound asleep, their litlte baby gave a cry, PJ picked her up, realising that she needed a nappy change he heading to the nursery. He met Chris on the way.

'Where are you two off to?'

'Nappy change time, wanna help?'

'Maybe not, but I did bring that little jump suit with me'

'Perfect, thanks Chris'. PJ headed to the nursery while Chris headed towards Maggie's room. She stopped at the door, noticing Maggie was sound asleep she didn't want to disturb. She left the little present on the end of the bed, careful not to wake her. PJ as standing behind soon enough.

'Got nappy change done, yeah I'm better pretty good at it'

'Don't lie I'm sure the nurse did it, yeah?'

'Yeah, but don't dob me in'

'Deal. She's exhausted'

'Yeah'

'Do we have a name yet?'

'Nah not yet'

'Well, I'll let you get some rest too' Chris gave the little bub a kiss on the head. PJ lay her back in her crib before settling himself in the armchair next to Maggie's bed.

The next day, the new family were discharged from hospital. They headed home, welcomed by PJ's mum's home cooking, clean laundry and a fully stocked fridge.

'Maggie, darling, come in sit down, PJ careful with the baby' Helene watched PJ placed the baby in her bassinet. 'PJ, go grab Maggie a drink'.

'Thanks Mrs Hasham, I'm ok'

'Please Maggie call me Helene. Does the little one have a name yet'

'She does mumma'

'And...'

'Katie Helene'

'She has my name'

'She does, we wanted to honour our mums, we hope she turns out to as strong a woman as her grandmothers are'

'I honoured, Maggie. PJ, my son, you make your BBC old mumma very happy' Helene gave PJ the biggest hug. 'You are a beautiful couple...family, maybe we get a wedding next? God bless you all' Helene smiled at Maggie while PJ got a little tap on the cheek.