DISCLAIMER: I don't own any of these characters; all rights go to those who do. I'm just using them as a tool for you reading pleasure. The songs used in this fiction are David Berkley's "Fire Signs," Lifehouse's "Take Me Away," and Dido's "Here With Me."
ARCHIVING: Only with the permission of the author.

She Makes Me Want To
By Dearlylovedaimee

Stage 11-Regret

Greg, Nick, and Warwick all looked at each other in confusion. Greg was about to speak, no doubt to make a rude comment regarding Catherine's treatment towards them, when Nick and Warwick both placed their hands on his arm and squeezed it. Greg let out a tiny wince of pain, and pulled back his arm. He massaged the area the guys had attacked, then focused his attention on the figure of Sara coming towards them.

Nick and Warwick were right beside Grissom but judging by the look on Sara's face, they decided it would be wise to move out of her path. They two of them backed up a little ways, pulling Greg by the back of his lab coat. Greg who was perfectly content staying up front where all the action was, almost lost his footing as he felt himself being dragged backwards by the guys.

When Greg decided he had had enough harsh treatment, he shrugged both of them off and adjusted his coat. He was about to tell them what he thought of them, when he saw Grissom out of the corner of his eye, moving towards Sara to meet her. His words never made it past his lips, as the vision of Sara came into clear view. He looked up and saw the tears in her eyes. Greg was completely frozen stiff after that, wanting desperately to punch Grissom and comfort Sara.

Nick folded his arms over his chest and Warwick's head immediately shifted towards the ground as they both waited for things to explode. Sure enough, neither one of them had to wait long. Just as Sara reached Grissom she paused directly in front of him, brought her hand back, and slapped him right across his left cheek. Grissom remained unaffected by the slap, still wearing a blank expression on his face.

"What in the hell did you think you were doing?"

Gil was unable to speak, so he just stood there and let Sara do all the talking. And she talked. She talked so much that Gil wasn't sure he wanted to stick around and listen.

"First you jerk me around, then you have the gall hit on me. What gives you the right? Do you ever stop and think, or do you just do whatever the hell you want? I mean, forget that you hurt me yesterday not to mention almost the entire time I've been here. Forget that you just kissed me and ruined the most important thing that has come along for me in a long time."

"Sara I'm…"

"Don't, just don't! You haven't earned the right to say anything. I'm so sick of you thinking you're God's gift, because I'll tell you something, your not. You just dangle me on a string, and whenever you feel the need for entertainment you play with me. I can't believe I wasted four years telling myself you were worth it. Well it's over! Starting right here right now you will learn to treat me with respect. No more comments about what you think about me, because we both know there as empty as your heart. From now on you treat me like you would everyone else. You remember that I am not here for your amusement or to be your fuck buddy, I'm here to do my job. Now if you think that is beyond your abilities, then you either switch me to day shift or avoid all possible contact with me that isn't work related. You got that?"

Grissom nodded his head yes and sighed. This time he knew he had screwed up and there was no fixing it. Sara wiped the tears out of her eyes and turned to leave.

All the guys watched as she walked down the hall and disappeared around the corner. Grissom turned to look at his team, who were to embarrassed to look him straight in the eye. He swallowed hard and without so much as a peep turned and walked into his office shutting the door behind him.

"What the hell was all that about?" Warwick asked as he looked over at Greg then Nick.

"Beats the hell out of me. Which reminds me the next time I come close to pissing Sara off remind me she has a great right hook."

"Not funny Saunders."

"Geez, who put the stick up your butt?"

"Do you ever shut up?"

"No, not every since my mother lost my remote when I was younger."

Nick rolled his eyes at Greg and started walking down the hallway.

"Hey man, where you going?"

"To find Sara. Something tells me she needs me."

"Okay."

"If you ask me, our boy Nick knows more then he's saying."

"Well since nobody asked you, why don't you take your annoying self back to the lab and run those swabs we brought back."

"You know I sense a lot of hostility around here tonight. If you guys aren't careful, I might just take it personally."

"GREG!"

"I know, I know back to the lab."

Greg turned on the balls of his feet and began to round the corner. He stopped shortly after, then leaned back to catch Warwick taking off in the other direction.

"Where you going?" He called out to a very speedy Warwick.

"To find Catherine."

Greg barely got that last part, before he watched Warwick disappear into the air.

"If I didn't know any better, I'd say I was the only one actually doing any work around here."

Greg shrugged his shoulders, then spun around once and headed back to the lab.

Meanwhile, Nick was down in the morgue looking every place he could think of for Sara. Unfortunately for him, the only two people he found were the Doc and a new intern that he reminded himself he needed to get the number of. When it was clear Sara hadn't stopped by, Nick excused himself and went in search once more.

He had no idea where to start looking, but something told him Sara would mostly likely be looking for Catherine. Nick headed back in the direction he came, not stopping for anyone. He was in such a rush he almost walked right by Catherine's office. He caught himself just before hit the evidence locker, and walked backwards. As soon as he was in eye's view of Catherine's office he leaned his head back and took a look around the corner. Sure enough, there was Sara sitting in the chair on the other side of Catherine's desk. She was leaning forward, with her head hanging down in her hands.

Nick stopped at the doorway to watch the woman in front of him fall apart. Most people didn't know it, but Sara was a lot more sensitive then she led on. She hated to show it, because she felt it made her look vulnerable. But no matter how hard she tried to hide it, Nick knew her secret from day one.

He wet his lips and cleared his throat preparing to say something. He had no idea what that something was going to be, all he knew was Sara needed it right now. Fortunately for Nick, Sara heard him at the door, and had darted her eyes to the side to see who it was. She didn't have the heart to face him right now, so she just choice to keep her current position in hopes he would get the hint. Lucky for Sara, Nick never did know when he wasn't wanted.

"Go away Nick."

"Sara I…"

"I said GO AWAY NICK!"

"Sara I can't just leave you here like this, I wouldn't feel right if I did."

"Nick right now I could care less about how you feel. I want to be alone."

"Then why are you hiding in Catherine's office? Lots of people come here on nights. After all she is second in command."

"Nick I said…"

"I heard you the first time! The only problem is I don't believe you. I think you came here hoping to find Catherine."

"Jesus Christ Nick, just once would you stop trying to look for a crime scene and accept it when a person tells you to butt out!"

"Normally Sara I would, but this time it's different."

"You'll use any excuse won't you?"

"If it means that I'm not leaving one of my best friends alone and crying, then yes I'll use every excuse in the book. Especially when it's a friend I care so much about."

Sara looked up at Nick who was still standing by the doorway. Her stray tears rolled down her cheeks and onto her shirt. When she saw the look in Nick's eyes she knew she was safe. His gaze never left her, as he inched closer to where she was sitting. He was just about to kneel down in front of her, when Sara shot up out of her chair and into his arms.

Sara sobbed harder then Nick had ever heard her. He closed his eyes, feeling every ounce of pain right along with her. Gently, he stroked her hair and rubbed her back in soothing circles. He knew nothing he could say or do would even begin to take away the pain Sara was feeling right now, so he just held her. Finally, when Nick felt Sara's crying turn into sniffles, he pulled back from her and bent down to look in her eyes.

"Tell me what happened Sara, I can't help you if you don't."

Sara shock her head yes, and stepped back a little wiping her eyes and her nose with the sleeve of her shirt. She took a moment to compose herself and then urged Nick to sit down so they could talk.

"Nicky, I screwed up."

"With Catherine."

"Yes." Sara said simultaneously with a nod of her head.

"Oh Nicky I should have never let him come near me, I should have just ran the other way when I saw him."

"Who Grissom?"

"Yes, Grissom. That son of a bitch, I hope he feels like an ass for what he did! I mean what gives him the right to treat me like that. All I ever wanted was for him to notice me, and all I ever got was a slap in the face. And when someone notices me, he has to go and ruin it, just like he did with Hank. It's like every time I finally get a life, he has to show up and make me feel guilty for it. Except this time, I didn't feel guilty. I was really happy and I just let him do it, I let him kiss me and she saw it."

"Grissom kissed you? But Sara, isn't that what you've always wanted?"

"That's just it Nick, I thought I did. Then Catherine took care of me last night and she was so sweet and kind. She talked with me, had dinner with me, got to know me. She made an effort, a true effort to be my friend. I realized all along what I have been missing. I realized I have spent four years overlooking the most wonderful person I've met in along time."

"But I thought you hated Catherine?"

"That's just it, I didn't hate her. I'm falling for her, and now she will never know because I ruined it."

Sara started crying once more, and Nick pulled her into his arms once again.

"Ssh, don't cry sweetie we'll fix this, we'll fix this together. I promise you I won't let you go through this alone. I'll talk to Catherine honey and we'll get this sorted out. Don't give up on her so easily. You should never give up on someone you care about."

Sara looked up at Nick and wiped her eyes again.

"Nick I don't want to loose her, not over a mistake like this."

"Don't talk like that Sara. Catherine has a lot of faith in you and she doesn't loose something like that so easily."

"Nick I've failed her before. Once is acceptable, but twice. What am I going to do?"

Sara's head collapsed in her hands as she sighed. Nick watched as she contemplated her fate. He shook his head and rubbed her back again.

Warwick watched in secret from the doorway and listened to Sara as she talked about what happened. He swiftly turned around, in search of his co-worker and best friend. It wasn't an easy search, considering he had been around the entire office building and not found one trace of her. He finally resulted to asking, and when Connie Jeffries of DNA finally told him she saw Catherine heading into L3 in the research room, Warwick sat out to find her.

Warwick walked into research, with his eyes open. He hadn't been there too many times before, so he relied on the signs posted above the doors for directions. When he reached the end of the room, he saw Catherine sitting in a room, curled up on the couch in a little ball. She had been crying, which was apparent from the smudges on her face. Warwick knocked on the door, then went in without waiting for her to answer. Catherine, caught off guard, stood up suddenly and wiped the makeup from her eyes. Warwick shook his head at her, then engulfed her in a hug. Pretty soon, Catherine relaxed and hugged him back.

"So, you and Sara. This is new. Care to tell me about?"

"Not really, considering what just happened."

"You mean Grissom kissing Sara?"

Catherine pulled back from the hug and looked Warwick straight in the eye.

"How did you…?"

"Don't be so surprised, I am a lead investigator for crying out loud."

Catherine gave him a look of disbelief and one more chance to tell the truth.

"I over heard Nick and Sara. You know, you shouldn't be so quick to judge Sara. I have a feeling she didn't know it was coming."

"I bet she did, she's only been waiting for it for four years now. Why let something like me get in the way?"

"Catherine, you don't know that. Who says Sara doesn't care about you."

"Because I have been giving her signs for four years now and you want to know how she finally found out, hum? She overheard Nick and I talking about it! It took me telling her for her to see. I should have never let myself fall in love with her. I should have known it would never work. She still loves him, I could tell from the kiss. She is just back there talking to Nick, trying to think of a way to let me down gently. Well, I'm going to beat her to the punch. If she wants Gil, then so be it."

Catherine turned away from Warwick and walked out of the office. Warwick tried to go after her, but lost sight of her as she barged out of the research room. Warwick breathed in deep, then ran his fingers threw his hair.

"Damn!" He said, as she punched the wall.

Part 12-Sacrafice

Catherine maneuvered down the hallway as fast as her legs could carry her. It took her less then two minutes in counting, to reach her intended target. She did one last makeup check, then straightened her pants, and knocked.

Gil Grissom was too busy baring himself in work, to be disturbed. The quicker he forgot about Sara the better. It had almost worked for about two seconds, until someone interrupted his concentration. He sighed heavily, and tried to make is seem as if he weren't there, hoping whoever it was would get the hint.

When the knocking stopped, he was sure he was in the clearing. He couldn't have been further from the truth. Catherine knocked a little harder this time, and spoke.

"Open up Gil, I know you're in there. If you don't open up this damn door now, I swear to God I'm going to…"

Catherine didn't get a chance to finish her sentence, as Gil flung open the door and pulled her into his office.

"Jesus Catherine, why didn't you tell me it was you to begin with?"

"Would that have made a difference?"

"Yes. I was worried about you?"

"Funny, could have fooled me?"

"What is that supposed to mean?"

"It means that not more then an hour ago I saw you in this very office in the arms of the women who betrayed me."

"Betrayed you, Catherine what are you talking about? I was only doing what you told me to do! Did I miss something between last night and tonight, because I'm beginning to feel like a criminal and I haven't even done anything."

"Gil what did you think she would do, fall lovingly into your arms. After all the times you rejected her, after all the times you've hurt her, what on God's green earth made you think it would be different this time?"

"Catherine why do you even care? Up until yesterday, you and Sara weren't even getting along."

"Yeah, well we had a lot of time to talk last night. Do you remember last night Gil? That was when you newest bimbo showed up and made out with you in front of the entire night shift."

"Catherine Melissa is not a bimbo. She is one of the top five investigators in the country. She was here at my request. Jim has a case that he needs solved and I thought she could send one of her guys to help us. She is a personal friend."

"Obviously."

"It doesn't matter now. She doesn't matter. All that matters is that I screwed up and I don't know how to fix it."

Grissom threw his arms up the air and collapsed in his chair. His head automatically went down and so did the mood.

Catherine watched Gil's reaction to last night and this morning, and it was apparent he was hurt. She sat down in the chair beside him and prepared herself for what she was about to do. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and spoke.

"Do you love her Gil?"

"Yes!"

"I mean do you LOVE her Gil? I mean really love her. Do you feel like your going crazy every time you aren't near her? Would you do anything to touch her when she walks by? Does your heart skip a beat every time she smiles at you? That's the kind of love I'm talking about. Because if you don't then it won't work."

"Yes Catherine I do really love her. I have loved her for sometime now. I love her so much that I'm willing to do anything to make it up to her. I just don't know where to begin."

"You begin by finding her and apologizing. I don't mean an "I'm sorry", I mean "I will do whatever it takes" kind of apology. Then you give her time. Don't rush her, because she doesn't like to be rushed. Then you just be there for her. And eventually, when she starts to trust you again, things will just fall into place."

"You really think I can pull this off. I don't think I can take another one of those looks when I disappoint her."

Catherine closed her eyes tighter, trying to fight back the tears that were forming behind them. Accidentally, one escaped and made it's way down her cheek. She sucked her hurt in and answered Gil.

"Yes I do. I mean she really cares about you, and I think you guys can make it work."

"I appreciate this Catherine."

Gil got up from his chair and made a move for the door.

"Where are you going?"

"To apologize. I know it's soon, but I can't let her go home tonight without knowing that I care."

He was out the door before Catherine had a chance to react. She slowly opened her eyes and let out the breath she had been holding in since they started. When she looked around Gil's office and saw how empty it was, she realized what she had done.

"It was for the best Cat. She doesn't love you. They'll be happy together and you'll move on."

The words didn't even sound convincing to Catherine, and she was the one who was saying them. But she had to make them convincing, because she knew deep down in her heart that she was right. Sara and Gil were two of a kind. As long as there was always a Grissom, Sara would never be able to move on with her life.

Catherine caught the tears before they hit her cheeks. She wiped them away and got up from her chair.

"It's for the best. Sara deserves the best."

She walked out Grissom's office with a heavy heart. Slowly, she headed to the locker room to gather her things. She didn't even change out of her work clothes; she just headed straight out the front door and didn't look back.

Gil found Sara sitting in Catherine's office being comforted by Nick. He took a second to compose himself, then knocked on the wall. Sara and Nick both looked up to see who it was. Both were shocked to see Grissom standing there in all his nervousness.

"I know I may be a bit premature, but may I come in."

Nick looked at Sara, who closed her eyes and nodded yes.

"Sure boss." Nick answered. He squeezed Sara a little harder and then got up from his chair. He joined Grissom at the doorway, and turned around.

"If you need me Sara, I'll be in the lab with Greg."

Sara smiled at Nick's overprotective nature and then turned her attention towards the man of the hour. Grissom was just about to have a seat, when Nick tugged him back to where he was standing and whispered in his ear.

"You may be my boss, but she's my friend. If you so much as bat an eyelash at her the wrong way, and I'll knock you into next week. I don't love my job as much as I love her. Got it?"

Grissom nodded his head in understanding and patted Nick on the back. In certain circumstances like this, anyone talking to Grissom in that manner weren't to be punished for it. In fact, Gil had to admit that right now his admiration level for Nick had skyrocketed. It took a lot of courage to stand up for someone the way Nick did. Grissom hoped that if the time ever came, Nick would do the same for him.

"I got it Nick."

"Okay."

Nick left the room, glancing back at Sara one last time to make sure she was okay. He watched just long enough to see Grissom sit down. Nick rounded the corner slowly and watched his friends' figures disappear. He didn't feel right about leaving Sara alone with Griss, but he knew he had no choice.

Back in the office, Gil dragged his chair closer to where Sara was sitting and began.

"Sara I know you would rather not speak to me right now and I understand that. I just have a few things to say and I want you to let me say them."

"You have a lot of nerve asking me to do anything for you right now."

"I know that, but I'm taking Catherine's advice again and I'm hoping this time it goes over better then it did the first time."

"Well, then let's have it."

"First off I want to apologize for the kiss. I should have never done that a) at work and b) after making a complete ass of myself. I realize that this isn't the first time I've said or done anything to hurt you and you have to believe me when I say that I never mean it when I do. I'm very new to these kinds of feelings and even newer to expressing them. I only hope that someday you can find it in your heart to forgive me. You don't have to like me, but know that I will always be here for you as a friend. And I am hoping that one day it will be even more."

"You don't get it do you? Again, you think this whole thing has to do with you and just you. Sometimes I wonder how you fit your head threw the doors."

"Sara how can I know what this thing is about if you won't tell me. I kissed you because I thought that's what we both wanted. I don't know how else to say I'm sorry, then in plain English. The only problem is now I'm not so sure what I'm sorry for.

You're angry at me, Catherine has all the sudden started defending you, Nick and Warwick want nothing to do with me; I just wish someone would tell me what the hell's going on around here. When I left work yesterday you and Catherine were at each other's throats, and I come into work today and you two are acting like the best of friends. That must have been some night that I missed, because now Catherine is sticking up for you."

"She's what?"

"For God sakes woman don't you listen? The only reason I'm doing anything remotely normal is because of Catherine. She is the one that tells me to get my head out of my ass; she's the one that keeps nagging me to ask you out. If I didn't know any better, I'd say she's the one who loves you, not me?"

"Wait a minute did you say that Catherine is the one who told you to come down here and talk to me?"

"Not in so many words, but yes. I was going to do it anyway, but she pushed me into it. She told me that she knew that you and I were meant to be together and that I shouldn't let you get away. And I agree with her, that's why I'm down here."

"Gil, where did Catherine go after she was done talking to you?"

"I don't know, she was still in my office when I went looking for you. Sara, did you hear anything I just said?"

"Oh my God!"

Sara leaped from her chair and ran out into the hallway. Gil shortly followed, trying to catch up with her.

"Sara, where are you going?" He yelled down the hallway.

"To find Catherine!" Sara yelled back at him.

"But what about us?"

Stage 13-Honesty

Sara paused the minute she heard the question leave Grissom's lips. As much as she hated to admit it, Gil really had know clue what was going on. Of course, that was nothing new for him. Sara turned around, and headed back down to where he was standing. She didn't want to hurt him, because he really was only doing what he thought they both wanted. She came up along side him and took his hand in hers. She had no time to rehearse this speech, seeing as how she never thought she'd use it. She couldn't think of any witty come back or gentle let down, that would prepare Gil for the heart break he was about to feel; so she decided blunt was best. Sara felt it was the right thing to do. She didn't want to hurt him, but she also didn't want to lead him into false hopes. She bit down nervously on her lip and started.

"Gil, there isn't going to be an us."

"Sara, I know I screwed up, but don't dismiss us that quickly. I'll do anything to make this up to you. I'll wait however long it takes, I don't mind. But please don't give up on me. I sure haven't given up on you."

Sara didn't know where it came from, but suddenly she felt a tear trickle down her cheek. She didn't realize how much Grissom truly cared about her, until she heard it from his own mouth. Sara almost felt bad for having to turn him down. She wasn't sure she had enough courage, but then a picture of Catherine came into her mind and she knew she had to gather her strength some how.

"Griss…Gil, if this had been four years ago, I might, no I know I would be jumping at every chance to start a relationship with you. The fact of the matter is there is someone else."

Gil bowed his head and inhaled. Not that he really needed to know, but he knew he wouldn't be able to sleep tonight if Sara didn't tell him who had replaced his part in her life.

"Who is it?"

"I'm not so sure you want to know."

"I know I don't want to know. The thought of another man's hands on you sickens me, but I need to know. I won't be able to sleep tonight if I don't know."

"Well, at least I know you won't be leaving with that nauseated feeling."

Gil wrinkled his brow and shock his head.

"Sara, I'm not following you."

"Boy, for someone who solves crimes for a living, you really are clueless. Gil, take a minute and think, who has been the one common person in all of this?"

"You don't mean…"

"Yes I do."

"Why Nick? What does he have that I don't?"

Sara rolled her eyes and smacked Grissom on the forehead.

"NO, not Nick! Give me a little credit Gil. Think harder, whom do we always run to every time we have problems? Who's the one person you trust more then anyone here?"

"Catherine, but what does she have to do with…oh, OH!"

"Ladies and gentlemen I think he's got it."

"CATHERINE? Sara, you two hate each other. Just yesterday night you two were ready to punch the other in the stomach, what changed?"

"I opened my eyes. I stopped denying who I was, and started living for once."

"But with Catherine?"

"Gil I don't expect you to understand, because I really didn't until this morning. I've spent the past twelve years listening to the haunting voice of a memory. I got so wrapped up in the past, that I lived in it. I never even gave myself a chance to look forward to my future, until last night. Catherine made me realize that I can't waste all my energy loving the wrong person."

"So I'm the wrong person now?"

"No, that's not what I meant. You see it's not just you; it's a whole list of people. I spent all this time chasing after the wrong types because I was sabotaging my love life. I thought someone who I cared very much for wanted me to live that way. But last night, Catherine made me realize that this person loved me and would want me to be happy with or without her. Catherine showed me what I've been missing all this time, and as crazy as that sounds, I know that I could never go back to the way things were before."

"So you care about her?"

"I think I always have, on some level. I mean all the time I spent trying to gain her respect and approval; I think I was really trying to get her to notice me. I know this doesn't make much sense, but that's the best I can do."

"You make perfect sense, I just wish I hadn't been so stupid."

"Gil if it didn't happen now if would have happened eventually. You can't runaway from who you are. I'm glad this happened now before we got involved. I don't even want to imagine what it would be like if I cheated on you. So be grateful."

"I will be in time, it will just take a while."

"Well, just know that I'm not going to discontinue our friendship. I don't think I would have anyway. I just hope I'm not alone."

Gil's head slowly rose up and his eyes met Sara's. An insecure smile spread across his lips and he pulled her into a hug.

"If I can't have you as a lover, then I want you as a friend."

"Are you going to be able to handle Catherine and I dating?"

"Catherine is my best friend and I love her. It will take me a while to adjust, but I will do it. I just hope that she doesn't hate me."

"I think it's the complete opposite actually."

"I hope so."

Gil and Sara let go of each other and smiled.

"Do I have your permission to leave?"

Gil looked at his watch, then back at Sara.

"Well considering your shift was over twenty minutes ago, I think it's safe for you to clock out."

Sara smiled at him one last time and turned around. Time turned into slow motion as Gil watched Sara walk slowly down the hall, disappearing second by second, until she was finally no more. He knew it would take him some time to patch his heart up, but that he had done the right thing. And Sara was right; honesty was the better way to go.

Gil shoved his hands in his pockets, and then sighed. He headed down the same hallway, to the break room for some coffee. Hopefully one of the guys would be there and maybe even join him for breakfast.

Meanwhile, after searching the entire Crime Lab, Sara learned that Catherine had left about an hour earlier. She quickly gathered her things from her locker, and rushed out the door.

She then made her way to Catherine's house, hoping to catch her before she went to sleep. As soon as Sara reached the driveway, she was disappointed to see that Catherine's car wasn't there. She sighed deeply, trying to think of other possible places Catherine could have gone to.

Suddenly, a light bulb went off in Sara's mind, and she remembered the bar Catherine had taken her to just after she had broken up with Hank. It was about a half an hour outside of Vegas, so Sara got on the interstate, trying to remember the way.

The drive allowed Sara to clear here thoughts, and think about what she was going to say to Catherine. So much needed to be fixed, and Sara really had no idea how to go about it.

Sara remembered something that Catherine had told her earlier that morning. She had told Sara to stop worrying so much about impressing her and start being herself. What it all boiled down was Sara had to feel what she meant and not just be saying it. The only problem was Sara never had been good with words.

Sara tried to formulate sentences in her head of possible thing to say to Catherine. All of them failed to capture what Sara was trying to convey. Her frustration continued to mount, as Sara drove on. She was just about to pull over and turn around; when she heard a song from one of her CDs, come on the radio. She cranked up the volume and listened carefully.

Slowly, that gap-toothed grin that she hated so much was in full affect. She bent down along side her council, and began to search for the case. When she found the song list, she searched for the name and again smiled when she found it.

She stuffed the CD into her pocket and accelerated, breaking all traffic laws. Less then fifteen minutes later, she was pulling into the parking lot of Carl's Pub.

Sara took one last deep breath, as she exited the car. She immediately noticed Catherine's Tahoe parked in the very first parking spot on the right. She removed her sunglasses and pushed them on top of her head. She made her way to the front door and went in.

She was immediately stopped by a middle-aged gentleman and asked to leave.

"Sorry lady, we're closed."

"I know, but I have a friend in here."

"Really, who you talking about?"

Sara pointed to where Catherine was sitting at the bar.

"Her."

"You mean Catherine?"

"Yes, you know her?"

"Sure do, have since she and Eddie were married. I used to be a bouncer at the club she danced for. How do you know her?"

"We work together. I'm Sara."

Sara extended her hand to the bouncer, and he pleasantly accepted, returning a strong handshake.

"Pleasure to meet you Sara, I'm Tiny."

Sara smiled at the man, whose nickname was obviously missed placed.

"Nice to meet you Tiny. Is this your bar?"

"Nah, it belongs to my cousin. He and his wife own it."

"Well, Tiny do you think you'd be able to do me a quick favor?"

"As long as it's not illegal, I'll see what I can do."

Tiny winked at Sara, causing her to smile. She reached into her jacket pocket and pulled out the CD.

"Do you think you could play this for me?"

"Well, we have a jukebox, but I'll see if I can find the CD player in the back. Hang on."

The bouncer disappeared for a short time and returned caring a small CD player. He plugged it into the wall, and then headed back to where Sara was standing and handed her the remote.

"All you have to do is push the number of the song you want and it will start for you. I took the liberty of putting the CD in for you."

"Thanks Tiny."

"Hey, anything for a friend of Catherine's. She's one of my favorite girls."

"Mine too Tiny."

"Well hey, I hate to be rude, but I have to go wait outside for our liquor delivery. Will you two be okay in here?"

"I think we'll manage."

"Okay, well front door's locked, so you girls should be safe. Bye now Sara."

Tiny disappeared once again in the back, but this time he didn't return. Sara gave the room one last go around, before her eyes settled on Catherine.

Slowly, Sara made her way over to where she was sitting and sat down on the stool next to her. Catherine finished the last sip of her beer, then turned to she who had sat down beside her. Her eyes widened, when she recognized the I.D. badge on the coat pocket.

Part 14-Love

Sara turned her head to meet Catherine's gaze and smiled.

"So, what's good here?"

Catherine was so lost in Sara's eyes that she almost forgot to answer. Deciding it was safer to look away, Catherine shifted her eyes back to the front and looked down. She began to fidget with the wrapper on her beer bottle, while thinking of what to say next.

Sara didn't wait for her mind to come to a decision; she turned around in her chair and rested her hands in her lap.

"Catherine, we need to talk."

Catherine tore a piece of wrapper off the bottle, and flicked it on the bar. She then spoke without ever looking up.

"What are you doing here Sara?"

"I would think you already knew the answer to that question."

"Yeah, well a lot of things have happened in the past twenty-four hours that I can't explain. "

"I know that's why I'm here. Catherine we really need to…"

"Spare me the speech Sara, I've heard it before. Eddie was famous for using it. He always had something to apologize for. But funny thing is, he never did me the courtesy of giving me the truth. I hope I can at least get that from you."

"I would never lie to you Catherine."

"I know that, so let's get this over with shall we? I have some more alcohol to consume and I imagine you have to get back to Gil."

"Catherine is that why you think I came out here, to break up with you?"

"I was never aware we were involved."

"Well what did you think we were?"

"Two friends, who got carried away."

"Is that what you think that was the other night, me getting carried away? Is that all it was to you, some crazy mistake? Because if it was, I think I'd better leave now."

Sara rose from the bar stool, and started heading for the exit. Catherine swung back another sip of beer and then spoke.

"For your information, that's not all it was to me."

Sara stopped dead in her tracks and turned around.

"Then what was it for you Catherine?"

Sara folded her arms across her chest, and waited for Catherine's answer.

"Me showing you how much I love you."

Catherine closed her eyes the minute the words left her mouth. She just put her heart out on the line and was awaiting a response that would either scar her for life or make her the happiest person alive.

"If you love me so much, then why were you so willing to dump me on Grissom the minute things went south? I don't think people who love each other do those sorts of things. Is that how you're going to react every time things get tough? "

"I don't know, depends. Are you going to kiss Gil every time you see him?"

"Catherine that wasn't my fault. I had no way of knowing he was going to do that. He just pulled me into his office and planted one on me. Believe me, I didn't want it and I told him that. The only person I want is you!"

Catherine looked up and locked eyes with Sara.

"I'm sorry that it took me four years to open my eyes. If I could go back and change things I would. And this time, I promise I would see the sparkle in your eyes every time we talked to each other. I promise there would be no more arguing over Grissom and more working together. And we wouldn't be at each other's throats, unless we were making out."

Catherine laughed at Sara, who smiled in return. Sara made her way back to the bar, never taking her eyes off of Catherine.

"Catherine I don't want to wake up tonight unless you're next to me. You're all I want. So if you can find it in your heart to forgive me, then I would very much like to spend the rest of my life making it up to you."

Sara paused right along side of Catherine and held out her hand, offering it to Catherine. She accepted, allowing Sara to pull her up from her seat and into her arms.

Sara closed her eyes, enjoying the warmth of Catherine's body next to hers. She kissed the side of Catherine's head, and squeezed her tighter.

"Sara, would you promise me something?"

"Anything."

"The next time Gil's lips come anywhere near yours, you'll rip them off without hesitation."

Sara smiled into Catherine's neck and picked her up. She twirled her around and then sat her back down on the floor. She then pulled out of her embrace and kissed her. While Sara had Catherine distracted with a kiss, she searched for the remote in her pants pocket and retrieved it. She opened her eyes, searching for the correct number and pushed the button.

Catherine pulled back immediately when she heard a man's voice fill the bar.

*This time what I want is you. There is no one else, who can take your place.*

She looked at Sara who was smiling from ear-to-ear, while waving a remote in front of her face. Catherine crossed her arms over her chest and shook her head back and forth.

*This time you burn me with your eyes. You see past all the lies. You take it all away.*


Sara stuck the remote back in her pocket, then offered her hand to Catherine.

"Dance with me?"

"Oh I suppose."

Catherine said as rolled her eyes and sighed.

*I've seen it all and it's never enough. It keeps leaving me needing you.*

"Well if it's that much trouble, we can always…"

Sara turned slightly, gesturing towards the door, when Catherine placed a single finger on her lips to shush her.

"I would love to dance with you."

Catherine smiled as she took a hold of Sara's hand and pulled her close. Sara snuggled into Catherine, as they slowly began to glide across the dance floor.

*Take me away. Take me away. I've got nothing left to say. Just take me away.*

Instinctively, Catherine's head tucked it's self in the safe place underneath Sara's chin. She inhaled deeply, breathing in Sara's intoxicating mixture of lavender and the white musk they had bought at the store yesterday morning.

Sara automatically brought the left side of her face down to gently rest on top of Catherine's head. She closed her eyes, wondering how she had gone so long without loving this woman. Her eye's shot open immediately, the minute she realized she had just used "L" word. A pleasant grin made it's way along her mouth as she closed her eyes again. She did love Catherine, and there was no denying it. It was love, and had been for quite some time. Sara just kept it safely tucked away in her denial that once surrounded her heart. There was no Gil Grissom, Hank the paramedic, or a memory of Samantha that could replace the urge Sara had to love this woman. All there was Catherine Willows, the woman she had spent four years falling for.

*I try to make my way to you. But still I feel so lost. I don't know what else I can do.*

Sara wrapped her own arms around Catherine's back, squeezing her so close she though she would suffocate her. Catherine sensed the uneasiness in Sara's embrace and removed her head from its comfortable resting place, and looked up.

"What?" Sara said as she looked down at Catherine with concern in her eyes.

"I was just about to ask you the same thing. Is everything okay up there?"

"Uhum." Sara said as she nodded her head and resumed her hold over Catherine and placed a short kiss on her head.

"Okay, I just though for a minute there I sensed a little hesitation."

"Actually, is was more like realization."

*I've seen it all and it's never enough. It keeps leaving me needing you.*

Catherine again pulled back from Sara and looked up.

"Sara, here I am trying to make this all romantic, and you keep ruining it with conversation."

Sara laughed at a frowning Catherine. She kissed her forehead, then her nose, and managed to work her way all the way down to her mouth. She captured it very slowly. Catherine decided not to tease, deepening the kiss, until she heard a moan of content coming from Sara.

*Take me away. Take me away. I've got nothing left to say. Just take me away.*

Catherine broke the kiss with her eyes still closed, smiling at the reaction she received from Sara.

"See what happens when you don't speak?"

Sara shook her head at Catherine then bent down so Catherine could put her arms around her neck.

"You didn't even bother to ask me what I was thinking."

Sara said as she watched Catherine's face again wear a look of disappointment.

*Don't give up on me yet. Don't forget who I am.*

"There you go again with the talking."

"Can't help it, rambling just so happens to be a side affect with you."

"Well then, maybe we'll just have to change your dosage." Catherine teased.

"Un-ah!" Sara said as hugged Catherine harder.

"Okay, okay you win. I promise I won't switch your dose, but on one condition."

"Anything."

"You tell me what you were thinking about."

"I thought you told me I was ruining the moment with talking?"

"Did I?" Catherine asked with an innocent look on her face.

Sara rolled her eyes at Catherine then resumed her hold.

*I know I'm not through yet, but don't leave me here alone.*

"You know for a little person you have so much evil."

"I know, I try." Catherine said as she blew on her nails, and then rubbed them across her chest.

"Well for your information smart ass, I was thinking about how much I love you."

"Oh really, and how much is that?"

"I'm afraid I can't divulge that information at this time Ms. Willows." Sara said with a mock professional tone and a smile.

"Well why not?" Catherine asked as she stomped her feet in a childlike manner and pouted.

"Because, in order to do so, I have to demonstrate. And as much as I'm sure Tiny and the boys would just LOVE to see that, I have an image to protect."

*This time what I want is you. There is no one else, who can take your place.*

"Really, and what image is that?"

"The one of you naked."

"Sara!" Catherine slapped her on her arm before she managed to get away from her.

"Hey, you asked."

"Well you know sometimes it's okay to lie to me."

"Nope, that's not how I want us to work."

"Say that again."

"Okay, Nope, that's…"

"Not that part, the one where you used the word "us"."

*I've seen it all and it's never enough. It keeps leaving me needing you.*

"I can't, it wouldn't make since without the first part."

"You want me to hit you don't you?"

"I'll take tough love over no love."

"Good, because judging from how ornery your being, it's gong to be a common thing."

"You know violence against women is a crime."

"Really, damn." Catherine said as she snapped her fingers. "It's okay, I'd much rather kiss you instead." Catherine reached up and placed a sweet kiss on the tip of Sara's nose and smiled.

"Hum, I like that much better."

"Really, well if you love that part, just wait until we get home. Remember, I still have a jar of honey to get rid of."

"Um accuse me waiter, CHECK PLEASE!"


*Take me away. Take me away. I've got nothing left to say. Just take me away.*

Part 15A-Romance

Catherine tailed Sara with her eyebrow raised the entire time. She didn't have a clue where she was taking her All she really knew was it was some place slightly outside of Vegas and not her home. She kept glancing back and fourth between her cell phone and the road, wondering if she should just give into temptation.

Finally, after a solid fifteen minutes of debate, Catherine's curiosity got the best of her and she lunged at her cell phone hitting the speed dial and calling Sara. She frowned when she let it ring for a while and got no answer. Just when she was about to hang up, she heard Sara's voice come over the other line.

"Hi this is Sara…"

"Sara, honey, its Cat. You do realize your place is somewhere back thataway."

Catherine was going to continue, but then she realized it was her voice mail.

"Please leave me a message after the beep."

Catherine pulled her phone away from her ear and looked at it. With a roll of her eyes she flipped it shut and returned her focus onto her driving.

"Where are you taking me?" she said to nobody as she watched Sara turn into a gated entrance way. Catherine's eyes widened as a sign came into focus and she realized just where they were.

"Hey Guys I have to hang up now, we're here!"

"Okay Sara! And don't worry, we took care of everything for you!" Nick, Warrick, Greg, and even Grissom sat on the other side of the speakerphone, winking at one another and smiling.

"Thanks guys, I really owe you one."

"No you don't Sara, you've earned it. And like Nick said before don't worry about anything. We've got yours and Catherine's shifts covered tonight. From the looks of it I have a feeling we'll be slow."

"I really appreciate this Grissom."

"Anything I can do for you just let me know."

"Thanks, and don't forget about Lindsay!"

"Yes Sara, stop worrying. The guys and I are picking her up from Julia's tomorrow after school. Then we all plan on seeing a movie and she'll be waiting here at the lab when you two get back all safe and sound. Remember, I have done this before! "

"I know, but I haven't."

"Just do what you feel!"

"Griss if I stick to that plan, you might be keeping Lindsay for a little while longer." Sara smiled into her phone and the guys all chuckled.

"Well as much as I love Lindsay, I think she'd miss her mother."

"So I've heard. Okay guys I really have to go this time. We're just getting ready to park. Wish me luck!"

"Good luck!" The guys all screamed into the phone just before Sara hung up.

Sara pulled up to the valet and waited for the young man to open her door.

"Welcome to The Springs Hotel Ma'am!" The young man nodded at Sara and smiled. Sara returned the gesture, then handed her keys to the man and told him her friend would be pulling up shortly.

Just before she could finish the sentence Catherine's blue car screeched in behind hers. Sara took one last breath and watched as a confused Catherine exited and came towards her.

"Sara, what on earth are we doing here?" Catherine folded her arms across her chest and waited for Sara to answer her.

Just as she was about to yell, a young kid up to her and took her keys out of her hand. Before Catherine could protest, Sara intertwined their arms and yanked Catherine inside. Sara leaned closer to Catherine's ear and whispered.

"It's a surprise, I guess you'll just have to wait!" Sara said as she moved away from Catherine's ear and directed her gaze to the man who was standing behind the front desk.

Catherine just watched her in amazement, as she walked up to the guy like she owned the place and told them who she was. Then man typed in the information, then snapped his fingers and a younger man showed up to take Sara and Catherine to their room.

As they entered the elevator, Sara pushed Catherine out in front of her and draped something over her eyes.

"Sara, what are you…"

"Did I not tell you you'd just have to wait? Now be quite and enjoy the ride."

Catherine sighed and heard the bellboy beside her obviously laughing at the way Sara was treating Catherine.

"Do you want a tip kiddo?" The bellboy immediately froze up and continued to stare at the elevator doors.

"That's what I thought!" Catherine said under her breath as she felt Sara nudging her with her hip.

"Down girl!" Sara said as she took Catherine's hand in hers and rubbed the side of it with her thumb.

"Um-hum." Was the only response Catherine would give as she heard the elevator bell ding, letting them know they were where they needed to be.

"Follow me this way please ladies."

Sara took Catherine's hand and led her down the hallway and to her room. The bellboy let them in and handed the key to Sara.

"Thanks kid, here you go."

The kid's face lit up when he saw that Sara had slipped him a twenty and he bowed his head and took off.

"Hope you didn't give him too much."

"Oh stop, grumpy."

"Sara, can I take this damn thing off? You know I hate surprises."

"No you don't. You love surprises, it's not being in control that you don't like."

"SARA!"

"Catherine Willows if you don't stop being a pain I'm going to turn you right back around and you won't get your surprise."

"Hey, don't do that."

"Well, do you promise to stop talking?"

"Yessssssssss!"

Catherine grumbled at Sara and shut her mouth.

"You know Cat, you really do act worse than your daughter sometimes."

Catherine was just about to make a smart-ass comment, but then Sara placed a single finger over her lips.

"Remember, you promised to quit talking."

Sara smiled at herself and at Catherine's sigh of frustration.

Sara opened the door to their room and then turned back to Catherine, pulling her forward. Catherine obliged, trying not to trip over her own feet.

"Okay, are you ready?"

Catherine stood there, not saying anything. Sara looked at her for a second, and rolled her eyes.

"Okay Cat, you can speak now."

"Are you sure, because I wouldn't want to ruin the mood for you."

"CATHERINE WILLOWS…"

"I'm ready!" Catherine said in a calm voice. A cocky smile spread across her face that caused Sara to shake her head.

"Alright, here it goes. Although I'm not sure you really deserve it."

Sara removed the blindfold from Catherine's eyes and stood back and watched. Catherine's jaw dropped when she saw the flickers of the candles that were placed all around the room.

Catherine took a few steps; looking at the room she would be calling her home for the evening. Beside the bed sat an ice bucket full of sparkling cider. Then just across was a dining table fully set up and ready to be eaten on. Catherine turned to Sara and then back to the bed.

"Sara, this is, well this is amazing!"

"Why thank you," Sara said with a slight chuckle in her voice.

"No, I mean this is beyond wonderful. How can we afford this?"

"What's this we stuff?"

"Oh Sara, I can't expect you to pay for this by yourself. I mean this room is probably cost as much as one of my house payments. I can't ask you to do that."

"I didn't, Grissom did."

"What?"

"Grissom set this up for me. Well he and the guys, but Gil is paying for it."

"Are we talking about the same Grissom here? You know, the one with the beard, head of the crime lab, and big into bugs. That Gil Grissom."

"Yes."

Catherine turned towards Sara to face her and placed her hands on her hips.

"Okay, how many blowjobs did you have to give him before he agreed to this?"

"CATHERINE, gross!"

"Well, when a guy like Gil participates in something like this, a girl can't help but wonder."

"Catherine there were no oral activities involved whatsoever. Trust me, my gag reflex is still in check."

"Then why did he do this?"

"I don't know, I guess it may have something to do with what happened earlier. He felt terrible about it. When I called to tell him you were okay, he asked if there was anything I could do. Guess he knows never to volunteer again."

"Oh Sara, this is the most romantic thing anyone's ever done for me."

"I know, what can I say I'm wonderful!"

"Yes you are."

Catherine locked eyes with Sara and smiled. Slowly, a gap-toothed grin began to reveal itself and suddenly Catherine couldn't remember what she was going to say."

"Sara I…"

"You know, I just realized that we never had an official first date. So, if you don't mind I'd like to take you out or well in I suppose. Anyway, Catherine Willows would you do me the honor of joining me for dinner?"

Catherine laughed at Sara and then shrugged her shoulders.

"Well, since I don't have anything better to do I suppose I could. But don't expect much!" She winked at Sara, then took her hand and led her to the table.

Just as they got there, Sara rushed to pull out Catherine's seat. Once Catherine was situated, Sara bent down and placed a slight kiss on her lips. The kiss deepened, and Sara found herself being gently tugged forward into Catherine's lap. Before their hormones got the best of them, Sara reluctantly removed her lips from Catherine and sighed.

"Oh I am so not thinking about food right now!"

"That good huh?" Catherine waggled her eyebrows at Sara and smiled.

"You have no idea."

"So, if it was that good why did you stop?"

"Because I have a feeling I'm going to need all the energy I can tonight."

"Hey, who am I to correct you."

"Yeah, well I think I'd better order before I leap across this table and take you right now."

"You won't hear any complaining out of me."

"Catherine, do me a favor and stop helping."

Catherine burst out in laughter and watched as Sara went over to the living area and placed a call.

As Catherine was watching Sara, a light bulb went off in her head and an evil grin spread across her face. Just as Sara hung up the phone, Catherine rose up out of her seat and began to make her way across the room. Sara, who was to busy putting the menu back on the table, didn't notice the look in her eye as Catherine was coming towards her.

"Okay Cat, the food should be here any minute. Can I get you something to drink while we wait?" Sara chose that very moment to look up and catch the sensual way Catherine was walking towards her.

As if hypnotized, Sara's eyes locked with Catherine's hips, causing her voice to catch in her throat and even a little gulp. Catherine smiled the entire way, until she came to the couch Sara was sitting on and plopped down next to her.

"So, what do you want to do while we're waiting?" Catherine twitched her eyebrows as Sara's eyes widened.

"You," Sara said without even thinking then shook herself out of the trance and corrected herself.

"I mean I want to pour a drink all over you, I mean for you. Hell I don't know what I mean." Sara banged her head against the back of the sofa and let out a groan of frustration.

Catherine couldn't keep herself from smiling and leaned over to give Sara a kiss of reassurance.

"It's okay, I think I get what you were trying to say. So, would telling you that I want to put my hands all over you now be a too much of an inconvenience?"

This time, it was Sara's jaw that dropped. She tried to speak, but all that came out were mumbles. Catherine licked her lips, then climbed on top of Sara's lap. She steadied herself with the back of the couch and bent down, capturing Sara's mouth.

The two fought for control, as Sara brought her hands up underneath Catherine's shirt and began to caress her back. Idle fingers worked their way to Catherine's bra, releasing the clasp and bringing Sara one step closer to what she wanted. Catherine smiled into their kiss, grabbing Sara's head and pushing her harder into their kiss. Sara wrapped her arms tightly around Catherine's body and, with one swift move, she lifted her up and began to head over to the bed. Once there, Catherine and Sara both fell backwards on top of one another, nipping and sucking every ounce of flesh they could get their mouths on. Sara slid her tongue down the base of Catherine's neck, stopping at her shoulder blade and placing a tender kiss on it. Catherine worked her fingers through Sara's hair, kissing the top of her forehead the minute she felt her mouth make contact with her skin. She let out a slight moan, when she felt Sara trail her tongue back up the other side of her body and stop her neck.

"I want you," Sara whispered as she took Catherine's earlobe in her mouth and bit it.

Catherine took a minute to catch her breath, but quickly recovered. She pulled Sara's face to her and looked into her eyes.

"Not as much as I do," she said with a smile and placed a gentle kiss on Sara's mouth.

Sara returned the smile and pulled Catherine's body closer to hers, working her hand up her leg. She continued to get lost in Catherine's eyes as she unfastened Catherine's zipper and proceeded to slip her hands in.

Suddenly their door to their room swung open, startling both Catherine and Sara.

"Hello Ladies, here is your…WOW!" The bellboy eyes widened, and he quickly turned around to avert his attention from the couple.

Part 15B-Romance (NC-17)

Catherine and Sara were in such a hurry to reverse their positions, that they accidentally forgot the way they were situated, and ended up fumbling over each other and falling out of bed.

The bellboy heard the loud thump of their bodies, and quickly turned around to see if everything was all right.

"Ladies are y...whoops!" He turned back around, remembering why it was he hadn't been facing them. He then figured it was safer to talk with his back to them. "Are you okay over there?"

Catherine rolled off of Sara and scurried to her feet, zipping up her pants. When she noticed Sara was still on the floor rubbing her head she reached down, taking her by the arm, and pulling her to her feet.

"Young man, haven't you ever heard of knocking?" Catherine scolded him as she went to re-clasp her bra.

"Yes ma'am but Miss Sidle told me to just come on in."

Catherine looked over at Sara who was still rubbing her head and wearing a blush that could have made a cherry jealous.

"Did I forget to mention that?" She said with a tooth-filled grin and a batting of her eyelashes.

"Might have left out just one or two of those details, yeah!" Catherine said with a stern look.

"Sorry for any inconvenience ladies. Here's your food. Now if you'll excuse me I'll be getting back to work."

"Yeah well, consider the show your tip!" Catherine yelled at the bellboy, who was already out the door before she finished her sentence.

Immediately, Catherine shifted her attention back to Sara who was on the verge of laughter.

"It's not funny!"

Just as Catherine said it, Sara was bent over, laughing so hard she didn't think she'd be able to compose herself. Catherine just stood back watching, with her hands on her hips and frowning.

"Sara Sidle, stop laughing this instant!" Catherine said to her with a little more harshness in her voice.

"Cat I would, but it was just so damn funny! I think that bellboy would agree with me that seeing you naked is the best tip anyone could get." Sara collapsed back on the bed, trying to calm herself down to the point she could breathe again.

"Well I'm glad you find this so amusing." Catherine stalked off to the couch, leaving behind a confused Sara.

Sara wiped the tear from her eye and looked over at her girlfriend, who was sitting with her legs and her arms, both crossed. Sara sighed and rolled her eyes, then got up off the bed and went to talk to Catherine.

"Cat honey, don't be mad. You have to admit it was a little funny?"

"Maybe to you, but your not the one who was flashing some 17 year-old kid."

"Oh honey, I'm more then positive he didn't mind. Besides, do you honestly think in his line of work he hasn't seen this type of thing before? Catherine, what's really bothering you?"

"Nothing! Besides I'm sure you'll just laugh at me if I tell you."

"Catherine Willows I would never do that."

"Well if you must know, just once I'd like to be with you and not have a man interrupt us!"

"Oh, so I see. You're mad because I didn't get to finish huh?" An evil grin spread across Sara's face.

Catherine looked at her with anger and went to slap her on her arm. Sara dodged it like a pro, only to grab Catherine and pull her into a hug.

"Honey I promise, I'll lock the door and for the rest of the night I'm all yours! Okay?"

"Well okay, but don't think I'm letting you off the hook with this, because I'm not."

"Yes dear. Jesus, we've only been an official couple for a few hours and already you're making demands. You're a tough woman, Willows! (?)"

"Oh don't pretend like you don't like it!" Catherine winked at Sara, then quickly kissed her.

"I believe we have food waiting!"

"Food, yeah right!" Sara got up off the couch and helped Catherine do the same. They spent an hour, eating their pasta, trading conversation and just enjoying each other's company.

At the end of their meal, then had room service delivered desert and an extra surprise for Catherine. Once they were completely done, Catherine patted her belly and smiled.

"That was amazing. I should make Gil pay for us more often."

Sara smiled at her and then finished the last bite of her cheesecake.

"So I take it you'll be going out with me again?"

"Well I suppose so. But next time I'm making sure we lock our door." Catherine smiled at Sara and then got up from the table.

"Hey Sar, you never did tell me what was under this last sheet!" Catherine went to take a peek, but before she could get a good look, Sara was over there, slapping her hand away.

"Catherine Willows you really are the most impatient person! Now get!"

"Hey, one slap is enough!" Catherine pulled her hand back and frowned.

"Well I told you to wait."

"Yeah, but you don't have to get violent with me. My poor hand, I don't think it will be able to perform tonight!"

"Oh believe me, after it sees what I have in store for it I'm sure it will make a speedy recovery!"

Catherine raised one eyebrow in curiosity and smiled.

"Oh really, and just what did you have in mind?"

"I was wondering when you were going to ask! But first, you have to do something for me."

"Really, and just what might that be?"

"Well, considering all the trouble I had to go through earlier, the least you could do is dance for me."

"Sara I gave that up a long time ago. In fact I'm not even sure I remember how to do it anymore."

"Really, well then I guess you're going to have to make it up as you go along. Or else you won't get your surprise!"

"You wouldn't dare!"

"Oh but Cat, I would! Now let's get going woman, I want to see some clothes on the floor!"

Sara walked over to the stereo and inserted a CD she had been saving for this occasion. She picked up the remote off the table and headed over to the couch. She took a seat, waving the remote at Catherine.

"Anytime you're ready Kitty Cat, I'll push play."

"Alright, you win! But I just want to go on record by saying if this isn't all you've dreamed of don't blame me, I warned you!"

"Enough talking, I want to see some action!"

"Would my fist coming at your face be enough for you?"

"Ha ha! I'm serious, I want you to move for me."

"I can think of a better way of doing that and it doesn't even involve music."

"Cat you're stalling!"

"Yes I am, but I have no idea why you want me to do this! I mean I'm really not as great at it as I might have led you on to believe."

"Why are you being so stubborn?"

"Because I'm good at it. Why are you so insistent on me dancing?"

"I don't know it's just something I've been thinking about."

"Oh really, and how long have you been "thinking" about it?"

"Not long!"

"Sara Sidle you're lying to me!"

"Okay, I've kind of wonder for a while now! There are you happy?"

"Yes!"

"Well in that case you'll have no problem getting in the mood. Should I start the music?"

Catherine grumbled and started to undo her top button.

"Hey what are you doing?" Sara whined as she stood up.

"Relax Sara, I'm just making it easier. I promise I won't start with out you!"

"Well okay, just don't get going until I have the music playing?" Sara sat back down and pushed the eject button. With one click the CD was in the player and the music started.

*I didn't hear you leave I wonder how am I still here And I don't want to move a thing It might change my memory*

Slowly, Catherine ran her hands down the front of her body then back up to the second to the first button. Sara sat on the couch, eyes following her hands as they undid each button, one at a time.

There Catherine stood before for her, shirt hanging open, exposing her black see through bra. Sensually, she ran one finger down her neck and into her cleavage, dipping her head back and starting to move her hips. Back and fourth she rocked as her shirt feel past her shoulders, until it was only being kept on by her arms.

Sara watched as Catherine's head went back then quickly snapped back up as her hands made their way down to her waistband. She slipped them in her pants, only leaving her thumbs hanging out.

She locked eyes with Sara and she removed her hands out of her pants and went to undue her zipper. With each centimeter the zipper came down, it slowly revealed the matching black panties Catherine had been wearing.

*Oh I am what I am I'll do what I want But I can't hide*

Her hips continued to sway back and forth as she slipped her hands back in the waistband of her pants and bunched them down to her ankles. Once there, Catherine stopped moving momentarily to step one leg after another, out of her pants and kick them to the side.

Almost instantly her hips started up again with the music, and she ran her hands smoothly over her stomach and up the sides of her body, until they were touching her own breasts.

Sara's eyes widened as she watched Catherine sensually massage her own chest. She could feel the pulse began to pound between her legs, as the heat of her own passion rose.

Not being able to take it any longer, Sara pushed off the couch and gently crept over to her lover. Just as she arrived at Catherine's side, Catherine turned away quickly.

*I won't go I won't sleep I can't breathe Until you're resting here with me*

Automatically, her hands went up in the air and her movement of her hips became less controlled. Sara placed a hand on Catherine's waist, and pressed herself against her. Catherine smiled as she felt Sara's erect nipples through her shirt.

She brought her arms back down and behind her head to hook them around Sara's neck. Sara leaned in closer, bending forward to place a chaste kiss on Catherine's shoulder.

Catherine twirled Sara's hair in her finger and then slid her hands down the side of her face. She leaned backward into Sara's body, then repositioned her hands so they were now working their way down Sara's and stopping at her waist.

She took Sara's hips in her hands and forcefully moved them side-to-side. Sara matched the beat of the music, allowing Catherine to be in control.

*I won't leave I can't hide
I cannot be Until you're resting here with me*

Sara wrapped her arms tightly around Catherine's body, and ran her fingers down her stomach and underneath Catherine's panties. Catherine quickly turned in Sara's arms, and pulled herself closer to Sara's body. Sara leaned in, capturing Catherine's mouth in hers, causing Catherine to moan as she felt Sara's tongue slip past her lips and into her mouth.

Sara broke their kiss, dipping Catherine backwards, and then bringing her back up, hooking her right left across her behind. Sara ran her hand across Catherine's thigh, and pulled her in for another kiss.

Catherine instinctively lifted herself up in Sara's arms and encircled Sara's waist with her legs. Sara supported her weight, as they backed up slowly to the bed. Gently, Sara lowered Catherine and pulled up only to have her shirt being grabbed from the bottom and be pulled over her head.

*I don't want to call my friends They might wake me from this dream
And I can't leave this bed Risk forgetting all that's been*

Catherine discarded the shirt, and watched Sara as she made a trail of butterfly kisses up her stomach, stopping at her chest. Sara reached under Catherine's body, unclasping her bra and releasing her cleavage. Sara lowered her mouth to Catherine's right breast and took it in her mouth, sucking on it. Catherine's head snapped back as she clutched the bed sheets in her fists and moaned.

Sara licked and nipped the nipple in her mouth and then turned her attention to the other, repeating her same movements. Catherine tangled her fingers in Sara's hair, pressing her harder against her chest. She ran her hands down Sara's back and dug her fingernails into her when she felt her bite her left nipple.

Sara winched in pain only for a second at the feel of Catherine's nails breaking skin. She smiled to herself, then removed her attention away from Catherine's breast and ran her tongue up her chest, then her neck.

*Oh I am what I am I'll do what I want But I can't hide*

Catherine worked her hands down Sara's side, sliding her underwear down past her hips and allowing herself access. Quickly, she ran her fingers up Sara's leg and pushed them inside her center. This caused Sara to gasp as she felt two fingers enter her and begin pumping in and out.

Catherine was so busy concentrating on pleasing Sara, that she didn't notice Sara's surprise attack. Sara slipped Catherine's panties off of her and instinctively parted Catherine's legs, inserting two fingers of her own.

Catherine's eyes widened as she felt Sara match her rhythm. She rocked her hips slow and hard as Sara inserted one more finger and kissed her.

Sara brought one hand up and grabbed the headboard, helping herself grind against Catherine. She used the headboard to ride Catherine's fingers and harder and harder until she felt herself begin to reach the edge.

*I won't go I won't sleep
I can't breathe Until you're resting here with me*

Catherine let out a loud moan as Sara sped up inside of her and wrapped her arms and legs around Sara's body to help her self catch up. Each of them felt the other begin to tense up and with one last swivel of their hips they were released.

Two sweat-soaked bodies collapsed on one another, pulling the sheets up over them and snuggling in. Catherine buried her nose in the crook of Sara's neck and whispered, "I love you."

Sara held Catherine tighter to her body and whispered in her ear. "I love you too," then closed her eyes.

*I won't leave I can't hide I cannot be Until you're resting here with me*

Catherine rubbed her back then looked over at the undisturbed sheet sitting on the table.

"Sara baby, didn't you have a surprise for me?"

"Hum?" A half asleep Sara asked.

"What's under the sheet baby?"

"It's honey." Sara mumbled and began to drift back to sleep.

"Honey! Sara, Sara, Sara…………………… Sara honey, Sara wake up! Sara honey you fell asleep, it's time to get up and go home. Sara?"

"What…?" Sara mumbled as her eyes fluttered open to reveal a concerned Catherine standing over her.

"I said it's to wake up and go home. It's almost seven thirty, our shift ended a half an hour ago. Come on, I'll drive you."

Sara blinked her eyes a few times then sat up.

"What, you mean it was all a dream?"

Catherine gave her a look of curiosity.

"What was all a dream, Sara are you okay?"

"No, what day is it?"

"March 18, why?"

"But it can't be!" Sara shouted as she lunged off the couch and looked around.

"What am I doing in your office?"

"I said you could use it to get your paper work done remember? I took that robbery case with Nick and Grissom and Warwick had that DB in the alley. You had to stay behind because you were behind in your paper work. I said you could use my office. You must have dozed off."

"No, it couldn't have been a dream, it just couldn't!" Sara looked at the clock on Catherine's desk in disbelief.

Sure enough it was seven thirty-five in the morning and the date was March 18. She looked over at a worried Catherine then back at the clock.

"Sara, are you going to be alright? You're really starting to scare me?"

"I…"

"Look, come with me. We'll go to the diner and get some breakfast, my treat. Sometimes it helps to just clear your head. And if you want to talk, I'm there. That okay with you?"

Sara looked at Catherine just standing there waiting for her answer. Suddenly a smile came out of nowhere and she sighed.

"You always no how to make me feel better, don't you?"

Catherine raised an eyebrow and laughed.

"Hey, it was forty years in the making, but it was well worth the wait. So what do you say, how about some eggs?"

"I'd like that." Sara nodded her head yes and followed Catherine out of the crime lab and to her car.

The End

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