Fracture
by AmandaB

Summary: Families cause tension just as Goren and Eames encounter an old enemy. A sequel to All the Way, set seven months after that story (a month after Purgatory). This is the third and final story in my Bobby/Carolyn trilogy. Reading Past is Present is highly recommended, or you will have little idea about what is going on. Comments/suggestions are always appreciated. This story has a T (PG-13) rating.

Disclaimer: Law and Order Criminal Intent belongs to Dick Wolf and USA, not me.

A/N: To give credit where's it's due, this story was partly inspired by the USA Criminal Intent board. Thanks, everyone.


Chapter One: Unexpected Visitor

Waiting on the couch for Bobby, Carolyn looked up in surprise when the doorbell rang. She had arrived in New York early, and had let herself in with the key that Bobby had given her a few weeks ago. Coming over, Carolyn partially opened the door to find a young man standing on the front steps.

"Oh. I wanted to talk to Bobby. Who are you?"

"I could ask you the same thing. I'm his girlfriend Carolyn. Bobby should be home from work in a few minutes."

"All right. I'm Donny, his nephew."

"Frank's son?"

"Um, yeah." He glanced around. "Do you mind if I come in?"

"I suppose so." Donny nodded, and sat down on the couch. This close, Carolyn could smell alcohol on him. After a long moment of silence, Donny turned to her.

"So how long have you and Bobby been going out?"

"Six months."

"He hasn't mentioned you to me, or said anything about Tates?"

"No. I don't know anything about Frank other then the fact they don't get along."

Donny laughed briefly. "That's the understatement of the year. I barely know my dad myself."

"So then you've been living with your mom? What brings you to Bobby's door?"

"I- don't take this the wrong way, but that's between me and Bobby."

Carolyn got up. "You're right. I obviously have no place in family business. Take as long as you need." Grabbing her bag and putting on her coat, she got to the door and closed it, aware that Donny had gotten up, but uncaring. Getting out her cell, she phoned for a taxi.

Carolyn was about to get into the taxi five minutes later when she saw Eames's car pull up. Bobby got out, and Carolyn leaned forward.

"Just give me a few minutes here." she told the driver, then closed the door and turned to a surprised Goren.

"Your nephew is inside. When you're done talking, perhaps you could tell me why you neglected to mention his existence." she snapped.

His eyes widened. "Donny's here? I've been trying to find him for months. How is he?"

"So all those times you said you couldn't see me because you were busy with a case, you were really searching for your nephew? You told me you needed some space, and so I left you alone. But you've barely been in touch for three months, and now you come crawling back to me once you have your job back? Alex told me you'd returned. Bobby, you have to decide whether this is a relationship or not."

"Carolyn, you know our relationship is important to me. I wasn't always looking for Donny..." Carolyn didn't let him finish.

"You know what, I've had a long week and I don't want to deal with your self imposed isolation right now."

Carolyn moved to get into the taxi, but was stopped by Bobby's hand on her arm.

"Carolyn, don't-"

She whirled on him. "Don't what? Don't care that you've essentially divorced your brother and have an alcoholic nephew who's been wandering the streets for the last few months? Don't care that you never mentioned Tates Correctional Facility?" Seeing him pale, she continued, "Let me guess. You weren't on personal leave like you told me; there's another reason you haven't worked recently and you've barely called."

"Fine, you want the truth? I went on an unauthorized undercover mission inside Tates because I heard rumors of abuse from Donny who was there doing time for being part of a meth deal. As a result, I was suspended for five months. As for Frank, he's a liar and a drug addict. Good riddance is all I can say."

She looked at Bobby closely for a long moment. "Nice try. You don't tell anyone anything because once you let someone in, they can hurt you. You're afraid to admit that I actually mean something to you, and so you're hoping I'll run now that I know it all."

Carolyn knew she had crossed a line by how Bobby's face darkened, and how he took a deep breath before stepping closer to her.

"How dare you-you have no right to profile me-"

"Perhaps not, but I thought you needed to hear the truth. Now I'd better go before my taxi leaves." Before he could reply, Carolyn had gotten in the taxi.


In the street, Bobby swore, then remembered Donny. Taking a deep breath, he tentatively entered his apartment.

"Um, hi, uncle Bobby." Donny replied, springing up off the couch. "You never told me you have a girlfriend. She's pretty hot."

Bobby hung up his coat, then turned back to Donny. "So how long have you been on the street, and drinking?"

"I-ah- my mom kicked me out two weeks ago, because she found a bottle of vodka in my closet. She told me that she wouldn't take me in again until I got my act together. I only started drinking two months ago when a friend of mine was murdered. I mean, he was too young to die, you know? I've seen some serious crap in my life so far, but that..."

Bobby nodded. "Why didn't you tell me where you went after you left the hospital? I was worried."

"I'm sorry about that, Bobby. No matter what, I didn't want to go back to Tates. I really thought Frank would help you. He didn't?"

Bobby shook his head. Donny whistled. "That's low, man. How did you get out?"

"My partner and captain did it."

"What about the guards?"

"They got ten years in Rikers a month ago. Speaking of prison, you still have eight months of your sentence left."

"I know. But if the guards are at Rikers too..."

Bobby looked at him. "I understand. Listen, why don't you sleep on the couch tonight, and then I'll talk to Captain Ross and see if we can use a Major Case holding cell while we wait to see if we can transfer you to Allenwood."

"Thanks. Do you mind if I use your shower?"

"Not at all. It's right through there." Donny nodded, and Bobby collapsed on his couch. He wanted to stay here to keep an eye on Donny, but he felt that he wouldn't run off this time. Bobby looked out the window, and remembered his argument with Carolyn. He sighed, and wished he could have a drink. Fifteen minutes later, Donny emerged from the shower to tell him he was going to get some sleep. Bobby waited until he was asleep, then left him a note as he locked the apartment behind him.

On his second glass of Glenlivit, Goren felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to find Detective Logan.

"Easy there, big guy. Surely your day wasn't that bad?"

Goren put down his drink. "Don't take this the wrong way, Logan, but I don't want to talk right now."

"Fair enough." Logan ordered some pop, and remained silent for a few minutes. Then he turned on his stool to face his coworker.

"All right Goren, if it wasn't a case, your drinking must be personal. How's Carolyn?"

Goren coughed as the Glenlivit went down the wrong way.

"Ah, I see. You know, I think the two of you are quite similar, so I'm a little surprised. What did she do; analyze your past for the reason behind something you said?"

"I-how did you know?"

"Barek did that during our first case. She told a suspect something about my past to make him trust us enough to confess. I didn't talk to her for the next few days, when she apologized."

"What was it?"

Logan looked around the bar, which was almost deserted this late at night. "Before I tell you anything, this goes no further, understand?"

"You have my word, Logan." Bobby replied, and the men shook on it. Logan took another sip before he placed his drink down.

"When I was growing up, my mom drank. She sent me out for the booze, and if I brought back the wrong kind or she wasn't sober, she'd hit me. The only reason I went to her funeral is because it was expected of me as her son. There. Now that I've spilled my guts, it's your turn, Goren."

Goren sat back, eyeing Logan with new respect. His resilience and dedication was noteworthy.

"So both of us had difficult childhoods, then-"

"Don't you dare start profiling me. I don't know how Eames can stand it." Logan added quickly. "Oh, and here's a news flash for you. There's no such thing as a normal childhood."

Goren nodded, then smiled slightly. "I agree. As for the profiling, me and Eames made an agreement early in our partnership that I would never analyze her."

"Good idea. Now, you and Carolyn?"

Goren sighed. "I've told Carolyn some stuff about my past, but she didn't know that I have a nephew. I also never told her about the suspension."

Logan spit his drink slightly. "Goren, I've worked with you for three years, and I didn't know that until your suspension. Close to the vest was invented to describe people like you. Anyway, go on."

"Donny showed up this evening when Carolyn was waiting for me to get home from work. She told me, and we had a fight about me not telling her personal stuff."

"Your nephew Donny Carlson?"

Bobby nodded.

Logan paused for a moment. "Wow. It's good to hear that he's off the streets." He looked into Goren's eyes. "So, if you didn't tell Carolyn about Donny or the suspension, she had a good point."

Goren looked down. "Yeah, she did. Most of my previous relationships ended after a few months because the woman couldn't handle my mom, the job, or my quirkiness."

"But Carolyn knows all that, and has decided to stay anyway. Doesn't that tell you that she loves you?" Seeing Goren's uncertain look, Logan pressed on. "Let me guess. She hasn't come right out and said it, and so neither have you."

"Logan, I have better things to do then listen to your advice." Bobby growled, and moved to leave.

"Not just yet, Goren. Sit down."

"What is this, some sort of male bonding ritual?"

"We are in a bar, Goren."

"Right." He sat back down.

Logan lowered his voice, and leaned closer to him. "I'll be blunt. What you have to decide for yourself is if you love Carolyn, despite her faults, and tell her so. Where does Carolyn place in your life? If she's important enough, you'll apologize and ensure she's told everything. You also have to make sure that you spend as much time with Carolyn as she wants you to and that you have time for."

"I have the feeling that an ex girlfriend told you that?"

"Two of them, actually. I might take a little longer to pick up on things then some people, but I'd like to think I learn from my past."

Looking at his watch, Goren grimaced. "On that note, I'm going to have to leave and get some sleep. Carolyn's at a hotel right now. Oh, and thanks for the talk." Logan nodded.

"Good night, Goren. See you around."

"You too, Logan."

The next morning, Bobby woke to the doorbell. Who's there at 8 AM on my day off, he thought. Curious, he threw on jeans and a sweatshirt before opening the door cautiously.

"Carolyn. What are you doing here?"

"I- well, I came to talk, and give you a peace offering. I hope I didn't wake you." She held up an aromatic bag. "Can I come in?"

"Of course." he stepped aside, and Carolyn placed her purse just inside the door then swept past him to place the bag on the kitchen table. "Where's Donny?"

As if summoned, Donny stepped into the kitchen at that moment. "Mmm, that smells delicious. Do you mind if I have one?" Looking between the two adults, he grabbed a croissant, and quickly backed out of the room. "You know, I think I'll go for a walk. See you later."

"Why don't we sit down?"

"I-sure. Do you want something to drink?"

"No, I'm fine, thanks."

An awkward silence filled the room like fog for a few minutes.

"Bobby-" Carolyn stated at the same time he called her name.

"Ladies first."

Carolyn sighed, then looked him in the eye. "I shouldn't have profiled you, Bobby. That's appropriate for suspects, but not for you. It won't happen again. But I was sick and tired of being ignored, and I wanted to know why. I suppose I should have gotten used to the fact that you don't share your personal life. If I had as bad a personal history as you do, I'd be reluctant as well. It's not my job to change you, not that I would want to." She took his hand. "I love you, Bobby Goren, and that doesn't come with conditions."

Bobby let out his breath, and smiled. "I love you just as you are too, Carolyn. You were right that I was pushing you away. I'm so used to the job being all there is. When there was nothing else, I didn't know who I was anymore... Now that Donny is all I have left of my family, I want to get to know him better. But you're also very important, and I'll try to be more open in the future."

"So then I come third place?"

"I-"

"I can live with that, Bobby. After Justin, I threw myself into the job as well. As for my family, well, you know some of that..."

"What part of it don't I know? Disclosure goes both ways, Carolyn."

"You're right." Carolyn took out a croissant, and Bobby took the opportunity to eat one as well. When she was done, she turned to him.

"Well, you already know about Ellen and Kate. But my dad Bernard... Well, let's just say we haven't had the best relationship since Helen died."

"Why?"

"What I didn't tell you is-" Carolyn got up, and faced away from Bobby.

He gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "Take your time."

"The weekend my mom died of the heart attack, I was walking with them around New York. Helen had breast cancer and even with the treatment, she would have died in a few months. Every doctor we talked to said that the exercise we were doing had nothing to do with her death. At the funeral, I commented that it was good that Mom had gone peacefully to avoid more suffering, and Bernard disagreed. He accused me of killing her and that by moving away from home, I had caused them to have to visit me. I shot right back that he loved her more then me and it went downhill from there. We made up that Christmas, but it hasn't been the same since."

"You still blame yourself for her death, just like you blame yourself for Hyun's and Ellen's deaths."

"I-" She turned to face him. "Maybe I do."

"You shouldn't. You have nothing to feel guilty for."

"Thank you for saying that, Bobby." Carolyn wrapped her arms around his waist. Bobby returned the embrace. "I'm sure that you've read Shakespeare. Each of his main characters in the tragedies have a fatal flaw which lead to their deaths by the end of the play. If I had to pick one for myself, it would be my need to control life; to have the power to make sure nothing changes."

"The only thing we can be sure of in this life is that change will happen. When my mom was dying, I wanted to explore every option to keep her alive as long as possible. But I finally had to admit that it was her life, and she would die in her own time."

"That must have been hard, especially since you'd been taking care of her for so long."

"It was one of the hardest things I've had to do." Bobby softly replied. He pulled back slightly.

"Thank you for your honesty, Carolyn. It's one of the things that I love about you."

"You're welcome, Bobby." Putting her arms around her neck, she whispered in his ear. "Is there anything else you love about me?"

"Yes there is. Will you let me show you?"

"That sounds promising." Carolyn said, playing with his sweatshirt.

"Come here." Bobby propelled Carolyn into his bedroom and shut the door.

"First, I love your neck." He kissed it. "Then your shoulder..."

Great start. Donny's back, I see. Logan helping Bobby with his relationship troubles. Glad Bobby and Carolyn settled their troubles. Great place to stop by the way. I am curious where this is going. Post more soon.

Thanks for the reviews. Here's the next chapter.

Chapter Two: Hello Goren

As he felt Carolyn turn against him, Bobby opened his eyes and looked at her.

"Are you hungry?"

"Food can wait." he replied and kissed her. Bobby moved his hand towards- the doorbell rang.

Carolyn gently pushed him away. "Thanks for the thought, but I'll take a rain-check."

"I-definitely. It's probably Donny." The doorbell rang again. Bobby got up, quickly getting dressed. Carolyn stepped into the kitchen a few minutes later.

"Hi Donny. What would you like for lunch?"

"I'm making him a pastrami sandwich. Would you like one, Carolyn?"

"No thanks." She opened his fridge. "Hmm, I think I'll finish off your carrots and have this..." She held up a container. "Dare I ask what this is?"

Bobby smiled. "It's chili, and I just made it two days ago."

"All right." Hearing something, Carolyn put the food down on the counter. A minute later, she poked her head in the kitchen.

"Do you mind if I use your phone? I'm almost out of minutes on my cell."

"Sure, it's in the living room." Carolyn nodded, and retreated.

"What was that about? I thought she had time off." Donny replied.

"Well, just like doctors, cops tend to work irregular hours." Bobby replied as the two men sat down at the table.

After eating in silence for a few minutes, Bobby turned to Donny.

"So, about your mom? Do you want her to be listed as your main contact when you're in prison, and let her have visitor access?"

"Definitely. I mean, who else is going to visit me? Except maybe you if you have time."

"Look, I know Frank hasn't been the best dad. He hasn't been the best brother either. But I wanted to let you know I'm there for you."

"I know that, and I appreciate it. My mom tries her best, but she's busy with work, and most of her boyfriends don't stay that long. I think the longest was there for about six months."

"Frank told me your mom's name, Desiree Carlson, but what does she do?"

"She's a bartender in Pittsburgh. That's how she met Frank. After several meetings, she invited him over, and I'm the result. Apparently Frank left when she told him she was pregnant."

Bobby really didn't know what to say to that. Fortunately, he was saved by replying by Carolyn. She tentatively entered the room.

"I hate to interrupt, but could I have a moment alone with Bobby?" Donny nodded, and winked at Bobby as he followed Carolyn into the hallway.

"What is it?"

"I was hoping to stay another night, but I just had a conversation with Captain Anerand. The case I'm working with Jackson and Gomez just got even longer, and I have to leave tonight to get back to Boston for tomorrow morning."

"That's too bad. But what happened to Nass?"

"Oh, he's on his honeymoon in South Africa for another week."

Goren's cell stopped Carolyn saying anything more. "Excuse me. Yes, Eames, what is it? OK, just give me a second." He turned to Carolyn. "How long do you think you can stay tonight?"

"I have to be on the road by ten."

"Good enough. Yeah Eames, that was Carolyn, and she says hi too. What's the address? All right, I'll see you in thirty." Hanging up, he turned back to Carolyn.

"No rest for the wicked, huh?" she mused ruefully.

"Something like that. Will you look after Donny while I'm gone?"

"Of course." Carolyn replied as Bobby got on his holster, shoes, and grabbed his badge and jacket.

"Take care, Bobby. I love you." she replied as she hugged him.

"Same here, Carolyn." Bobby gave her a kiss, then left. He waved to Donny who was standing at the window for a brief moment before Bobby got in his car.

Once he arrived at the scene, Bobby had put any thought of his nephew away and was ready to focus on the scene. Pulling up and getting out, Bobby was surprised to see Jimmy Deakins talking to Ross.

"Hi Detective Goren. How are you?" The voice was strangely familiar. Bobby spun to see Andrea Lewis looking at him.

"Miss Lewis. What are you doing here?"

"That will become clear once you've seen the body, Goren." replied Eames, walking up to him. She looked very sombre.

Very curious now, Bobby entered the bungalow. He only had to go into the hall to see what they meant. A woman was kneeling on the floor, wearing only a bra and panties. She was bound, gagged, and blindfolded, with her throat cut. Goren circled the body gently, looking for signs that the killer had liked how the woman was positioned.

"Her name is Beth Brooks. There's signs of struggle, but nothing else. As for the murder being a copycat of Alexander Abandanato, let me show you something." Deakins replied. Bobby turned, and watched as his former captain took a pair of gloves from a waiting CSU technician. Deakins knelt down, and moved Beth's right leg. Bobby could now see where the initials AA were carved into her thigh.

"That's something we found on all his victims, but kept out of the media." Deakins said wearily.

Bobby nodded and moved aside as the body was removed. "But it's been three and a half years since his last murder. Why move now? Is he getting restless again?"

Andrea must have heard Bobby as he walked outside with Deakins, because she turned to him. "Somehow, AA tracked me down last week in Colorado Springs, and left me a phone message. I think he feels that New York women are fair game, since he wasn't caught here last time."

"Are you sure that he won't try to hurt you again? Are you staying in a secure location?"

"Yes, I'm in a hotel and surrounded by so many cops I can barely think. But as for coming after me again, that would be stupid. He had his chance before, and-" her voice caught. "Well, let's just say that after having me in his control for three weeks, he didn't see me as a threat anymore."

"So that's why you were left in the open to be found. AA must have known the FBI were on his tail." Eames commented. Andrea merely nodded.

"Perhaps we could continue this conversation at 1PP." Ross put in.

"Sure. Lead on." Andrea commented. Andrea and Deakins rode back in Eames's SVU. There was silence for the first while, then Bobby turned slightly to look at Andrea in the back seat.

"So Miss Lewis, what have you been doing in Colorado Springs?"

"I've been managing a modern art gallery there. Now of course, I'll have to move again."

"I plan to put AA behind bars for good, and then you can do what you want."

Andrea didn't reply to that, merely looked outside the window. Bobby looked down. It certainly seemed that AA had broken not only Andrea's faith in herself, but also the legal system. He was well aware that it was far from perfect, but it was far better then anarchy.

"So Captain- um, I mean Jimmy, how are things? I haven't seen you since the funeral."

"Yeah, both me and Angie have been busy. The kids are always on the go, and I'm driving around a lot in my job. Doing security for multinationals pays well, even if the hours suck." Deakins replied. Andrea looked at Deakins questionably, and Bobby saw him mouth his mother to her. Her eyes widened, then she looked down.

"Well, here we are." Eames replied into the silence. The four of them got out of the SVU, and Goren handed visitor tags to both Deakins and Andrea.

"It feels weird to be a visitor here." Deakins replied.

"Yeah, I never thought I'd be back either." Andrea affirmed.

Without another glance, Andrea quickly followed the rest of them into the conference room.


The next day, Bobby was startled by his telephone ringing. "Goren." he replied absentmindedly.

"Hi Bobby, it's Carolyn. How are you?"

"I'm fine. It's good to have Donny close by again." Eames head snapped up at that one. Bobby had booked Donny last night when there would be a minimum of fuss. Although Ross wasn't happy about it, he conceded it was probably for the best. He had agreed to be in touch to the cops in Pennyslvania and the BOP about a transfer to Allenwood Correctional Institution for Donny.

Carolyn's voice broke off Bobby's musings. "Yeah, Donny seems like a basically good kid who got in over his head. Listen, I was wondering if you could come to my birthday party this Saturday. Kate is hosting it, and you'll get to meet all the family."

Bobby smiled. "That sounds great, Carolyn. It's your 40th, isn't it?"

"A woman never tells, Bobby. But yes. Hold on a minute, will you?"

Some time passed, and Bobby was just about to hang up the phone, when Carolyn came back on.

"Sorry about that. I had to deal with a LUD report."

Detective Richie tapped Goren on the shoulder, and handed him a paper. "What's the address in Washington? All right. Bye, Carolyn."

"Bye, Bobby." Goren hung up the phone. He looked at Eames, who was glancing at him.

"What?"

"Say happy birthday to Carolyn for me, will you, Bobby? Don't worry, I can hold down the fort here."

Bobby nodded and held up the ME's report.

"The autopsy of Beth revealed the same hairs and DNA that was found at all the other AA crime scenes. He must have killed her himself."

"With the FBI still having a warrant for his arrest? That's taking a lot of chances, Goren."

"Yes, he does seem to be a cautious person. Maybe there's a reason he changed his approach this time..."

"But do you really think he would want to flaunt his freedom? We were able to put away Tony. But AA must have found another associate, not only to get him safely to New York, but also for the gun. Speaking of which, do we have a ballistics report yet?"

Interesting. I wonder if it is a copycat killer or the real thing. Carolyn turning 40 and a birthday party. Looking forward to more.

Thanks for the review. Just yesterday my muse decided to tell me who the real killer is, and it was unexpected. But I can't say more, because it's called a mystery for a reason. We get a little more info about Carolyn's family next chapter.

Here's the next chapter. I hope you enjoy.

Chapter Three: Interlude

"No." demanded Carolyn. Richard jumped. "No more lies. Everyone knows you were at Michael's the day he was murdered. So at the least you're an accessory to murder. Given the fact you ran after Michael's death and haven't been found until today, a few days after Sally's death, I think it's a lot more."

"Come on, Sergeant Barek. Don't you think you're getting a little impatient? I don't see the point in questioning me again when Detectives Jackson and Gomez have already talked to me. Why are we even here on a Saturday anyway?"

"The law doesn't keep regular hours. Now, I know you are low in the pecking order of the Eastsiders. But by murdering both Michael and Sally, you could get Mark's attention and get more responsibility. You value hard work, don't you? Or is deception easier for you?"

"You have no idea the conditions that Irish immigrants faced when they came here. We had to work our way up with nothing but our own two hands."

"I've read about Ellis Island, and you're right. But not all of the Irish, even today, value that. America is supposed to be the land of second chances, but it's also the land of making a quick buck, no matter what form that takes. How much did Andrew pay you to get rid of Michael and Sally?"

"Hey, they were family. We don't harm family."

Carolyn leaned closer to him. "Unless they hurt the bottom line. By letting the police know that the paper mill was operating on counterfeit money, Michael and Sally could have collapsed it all."

"They knew to keep their mouths shut."

"Speaking of which, my client is invoking his right to silence." Richard's lawyer added.

"Fine. But before we go, I want to show you something." Carolyn got up, then pushed a picture of a dead Michael and Sally before Richard as she stood beside him. "That's what you did. You ended a couple's life." Carolyn pushed Sally's picture to prominence. "Take a good look at that, Richard. I know you have a three year old daughter. If something ever happened to her, what would-"

Carolyn was abruptly cut off by Richard grabbing her blouse and yanking her closer to him.

"Now you listen to me, you manipulative bitch. Leave my daughter out of it. I don't kill women, understand?"

"If that's the case, who did kill Sally?"

"How the hell should I know?" Richard snarled, and shoved her away. Carolyn fell onto the floor. A knock sounded. Carolyn grabbed her folder and gave Richard a dirty glare before heading out of the room.

"We need to talk, Barek." Captain Anerand demanded.

"Can it wait? I have to finish as much paperwork before my birthday party tonight."

"No it can't."

With one look at her superior officer, Barek put her folder down on her desk, and followed the Captain to his office.

"What the hell was that about?" the Captain questioned as soon as Carolyn had closed the door.

"What? Oh, you mean Richard grabbing me? Nothing much. I can defend myself just fine."

"I know you're perfectly competent, Carolyn. That's never been a problem. What has been the problem since your suspension has been your attitude."

"What do you mean by that?"

"You're still as respectful of seniority and procedure as you should be. But there's driven, and then there's being stubborn. When you were with Nass, it wasn't too bad. But on this case..."

"Permission to speak freely, sir?"

"All right."

"When you gave me this case, you told me that Jackson and Gomez didn't need baby-sitting, just another fresh perspective to help close this case. That's what I've provided. Both of them have worked their butts off and deserved to have today off."

"I know it's your birthday, Barek, and I really expected you would want it off as well. But when you volunteered for the stakeout last night which led to Richard's capture, I was already a man short, so I didn't say no. Maybe now I should have. You haven't had a break since this case started almost two weeks ago."

"Captain, I appreciate your concern, but I'm fine." Carolyn turned to go.

"You don't have to prove yourself to anyone in this department, Carolyn. Everyone makes mistakes." the Captain's voice stopped her. "Just between us, I think Richard is probably the perp. But don't be so determined to finish this case that you miss the obvious."

Carolyn sighed. "I don't mind Jackson and Gomez, Captain. I just-"

"Got used to working with the same partner? It's understandable, Barek. Listen, why don't you leave early today? The paperwork will be here on Monday, and so will Nass. He'll help you wrap up this case."

"All right, Captain. Thanks, and see you later."

Going home, Carolyn changed into more casual clothes, then left to pick Bobby up at the airport. He had taken a cheap flight, and was going back to New York the next day.

"Hi, Bobby. Thanks for coming." Carolyn greeted him.

"I'm glad to be here." Bobby replied, and hugged her.

Pulling away from Bobby and turning to leave, Carolyn gasped. Her ankle had been bothering her since her confrontation with Richard on the drive up to Washington, but she had taken a couple of Advil and ignored it.

"Carolyn, you're limping. What's wrong?"

"I- hurt it at work."

"Do you need to see a doctor? We still have time before the party."

"No, let's just go to a drugstore and get an ice pack. Can you drive?"

"Of course." Bobby helped her into the passenger seat, and she handed him the keys.

"Now I know why Eames drives." Carolyn replied once they arrived at the drugstore. Seeing Bobby's expression, Carolyn continued, "It was a joke, Bobby."

He smiled slightly. "That's a good sign. Your sense of humor is intact. Wait here, I'll just be a minute."

Carolyn unbuckled her seat belt and rested her foot up in front of her.

"So can I expect to be pampered like this every time I get injured or sick?" she asked when Bobby came back in the car.

"Only when it's not a contagious disease. Why, does that bother you?"

"No, it's sweet." Carolyn turned to face him, and leaned over for a kiss. A long moment later, he let her go.

"That was nice, but I really need to look at your right ankle." Bobby grabbed the ice pack, and gently took off her shoe and sock.

"That looks nasty. What exactly happened?"

Carolyn grabbed his hand. "Try not to get mad. I was trying to get a reaction out of a perp, and it worked. When he shoved me across the room, my ankle must have hit the leg of the interrogation room table when I fell."

"What!" Bobby exclaimed, dropping the ice pack. "What's the phone number of your Captain? That's assaulting an officer!"

"Calm down, Bobby. It wasn't anything serious, and I'm sure you've had your fair share of perps giving you a hard time in the interrogation room."

"I've had a few, yes, but that's not the point."

"What, you don't think I'm strong enough to defend myself? Is that it?"

"No, not at all, Carolyn. I just want- I mean-" He rubbed his neck. Carolyn looked at him.

"You want to be able to protect me all the time even though you can't be there. I appreciate that. Listen, when my ankle gets better, why don't we go down to the gym and I'll show you that I can take on anyone that comes my way."

"Sure. That sounds good. But for now, let's make sure that this ankle is all right." He placed the ice pack on her ankle, causing Carolyn to look away.

"Sorry, but I need to get the inflammation down. Do you have a tensor bandage?"

"No. Since when have you become a doctor, anyway?"

"Well, I'm no expert. It's just things I've read. But Lewis was on crutches once in the tenth grade, so I learned how to wrap one then."

"So have you and Lewis been friends that long?"

"Oh, yeah. We used to cruise for girls in his restored cars during high school..." Bobby blushed slightly. "One of these days, I should introduce you."

"Why not? I could always use a good mechanic."

A few moments later, Bobby looked up. "There. How does that feel?"

"Good. Much better, thanks." Carolyn looked at her watch. "We should probably get going." Bobby helped Carolyn get her sock and shoe on. Carolyn gave him directions, and it wasn't long before they were pulling up in front of Kate's one story house.

"So who's here?" Bobby asked as he wrapped an arm around her waist and helped Carolyn walk to the house.

"Kate, Ted, Edmund, Bernard and- Natasha."

"Who's Natasha?"

"A woman my dad is seeing."

"Is it serious?"

"Probably. She was there at Christmas."

Carolyn had only just knocked on the door when it opened.

"Hi, Carolyn. What happened to your leg? Oh, and this must be your boyfriend you mentioned."

Bobby removed his hand from her waist. "Robert Goren. Pleased to meet you."

She shook his hand. "Kate Christeen, Carolyn's sister. Come in. Let me get Ted and Edmund."
Carolyn limped to a couch, and sat down heavily.

"Well, you certainly look like you've had a long week." replied a male voice. A chair spun around and a man in his 60's came forward.

"Dad? What are you doing here?"

"Well, I couldn't miss this, could I? It's not everyday someone turns forty, you know." He turned a discerning eye toward Bobby.

"Ah, and you would be Carolyn's latest guy. What did you say your name was?"

"Robert Goren, Mr Barek."

"No need to be formal here. Call me Bernard, everyone does. Have a seat, won't you?"

A red haired woman stuck her head in the room. "Don't get comfortable. Dinner's ready."

"Thanks, Natasha. Well, shall we?" Bobby came over and helped up Carolyn.

"What's wrong with your leg?" Bernard barked.

"Oh, I just ran into a table at work." Carolyn replied as she and Bobby entered the kitchen.

"You ought to be more careful." said a brown haired man sitting beside Kate. "Hi, nice to meet you, Robert. I'm Ted, and this is Edmund." He pointed to a six year old on his left, who grinned upon seeing Carolyn.

"Aunt Carolyn! How are you?"

"Good."

Natasha cleared her throat. "Bernard, do you want to bless the food, and then we can eat?"

He nodded and did so. The first few moments were silent, as everyone got their food and beverages.

"So Carolyn, how did you and Robert meet?" Natasha began the conversation.

"What, Kate hasn't told you?"

"No, all she said was that you had a new boyfriend named Robert."

"I'm a Detective with the Major Case Squad in New York. We met when Carolyn worked there for a year." Bobby supplied.

"Ah, a workplace romance. I met Kate when I took in Sam to the vet. It took me a couple of visits to work up the guts to ask her out, but she accepted, and here we are." Ted said.

Edmund looked away. "I miss Sam. He was a good dog."

"Yes, he was, honey." Kate said, and gave a glare to her husband.

Bobby cleared his throat. "So Bernard, what work are you involved in?"

"Well, I retired a year ago, but I was in the military. The Marines both during and after World War Two."

"I served some time in Germany and Korea as a part of the Criminal Investigation Division."

"So then why did you decide to become a cop?"

"Well, I wanted a change, and was interested in putting away a different sort of criminal. I was in Narcotics for a few years, and transferred to Major Case when there was an opening."

"How exciting." said Natasha. "I was an emergency nurse until a disability forced me to retire two years ago. But then I met Bernard at the library, and everyday has been exciting since." She patted his hand, and he smiled at her. Carolyn went on just eating, trying her best to ignore them.

"Hey Carolyn, you're done already? Do you want to see my Lego structures?"

"I sure do, Edmund." Carolyn got up and followed her nephew upstairs into his room.

"They're right here. See, this one is a house, with a nice car. That one is a castle."

"Oh, very nice." Carolyn kneeled down beside Edmund. "Now you just have to make knights who can storm the castle."

Sometime later, someone knocked on the door.

"Come in. Now, to make this a moat, you need to extend this out to here. So the knights have got to past two lines of defense before they can enter the castle."

"I hate to interrupt this, but everyone else wants us down in the living room. Apparently both Kate and Natasha have important announcements." Bobby said.

"All right." Carolyn got up gingerly. Bobby took her hand, and let Edmund race in front of them down the stairs.

"He's a cute kid."

"Yeah." Carolyn got the sense Bobby wanted to say more, but instead sat down beside her.

"So what's up?" Carolyn wanted to know.

"Would you like a drink, Bobby?" Natasha offered.

"No thanks."

"Well, I guess I'll start." Kate said. She took Ted's hand. "Me and Ted are expecting again. The baby's due in February. "

"Congratulations, Kate." Carolyn replied. The others quickly added their own congratulations.

"So, girl or boy?" said Bernard.

"Well, we want it to be a surprise, but me and Kate would love a girl." Ted answered.

"Excellent. Well, I don't want to steal your thunder, but me and Bernard have our own announcement to make. We're getting married the last Saturday of September."

Kate gasped. "But that's so soon. It's already the second week of July."

"Well, at our age, Kate, there's no need to wait."

"Definitely not, Bernard. Let me know if I can help."

"Thanks, Ted. Carolyn, you'll help Kate, won't you?"

"I really don't think Kate needs it. Besides, I'll be in Boston, so I don't know how helpful I can be. Excuse me." Carolyn got herself up, and slowly made her way to the kitchen. She sat down at the table.

"Just what is your problem with Natasha anyway?" replied Kate, who closed the door and sat down opposite her.

"Do you really want to know?"

"Well, yes. Natasha's going to be our stepmother, and you should treat her with some respect."

"I'm an adult, and she has no right to tell me what to do."

Kate looked at her closely. "This is about Mom, isn't it? Carolyn, it's been two and a half years since her death."

"I know that. Oh well, at least I won't see her that much."

"Carolyn, I know the two of you are very different and so probably won't ever get along well. But try at least to be civil to Natasha and happy for Dad. He took Helen's death really hard and now he's smiling for the first time in quite a while, not that you've been around to notice."

"Excuse me? Dad took Helen's death really hard? You weren't there in the hospital when the doctors told us the news. I broke down crying and Dad took one look at me, shook his head, then stormed out. As for not being around lately, I resent that. I'm only a phone call away, and I show up when I'm asked. It's high time for you to realize I have a life that has nothing to do with this family."

"Oh, we know all right. You made that clear after moving to Boston and being so busy that months would go by without any contact."

"That was because me and Dad weren't speaking for a while. I wanted to stay in touch, but it was too awkward."

"Oh, and who started the fight at the funeral?" Kate sighed. "Look Carolyn, I'm your sister and I love you, but you can be too stubborn sometimes. You're doing that with Natasha."

"You're right." Carolyn conceded. She moved to leave.

"Oh, and one more thing." Kate said. "I really like Robert. He's a keeper."

"Thanks."

"Have you given any thought to making it more long term? I think the rest of the family really likes him too."

Now Carolyn turned to face Kate.

"It's a little too early for that, don't you think? This isn't like high school where you would set me up with blind dates to get me out of my room."

"You have a point."

Neither noticed the door opening.

"Um, ladies? Are you all right? Bernard and Natasha are leaving, and everyone else wants to go to a movie." declared Bobby.

"Oh, right." Kate was the first to say. "I should get my say in, or we'll watch some shoot up movie."

Bobby nodded, and stepped aside to allow her to leave the room. He walked over to Carolyn.

"So I take it your talk with Kate went well?"

"Oh yeah. She pointed out I was being stubborn, which was true. I promised to be more civil to Natasha in the future. Now what movie are we going to?"

"We haven't decided yet."

"Well, let's make our opinions heard, then."

Wow lots of things going on in Carolyn's family. I love how Bobby wants to protect her even when he is not there with her. Very sweet. The case is moving along very nicely too. Post more soon. Can't wait.

Thanks for the review. I've always thought that Bobby was naturally protective, and I wanted to show that Carolyn, although she gets along well with her family, does have disagreements with them. No family is perfect, after all. But meeting the family is something that everyone has to go through if they are in a serious relationship, and so I wanted to show that. As for the case, it takes an interesting twist next chapter.

I had to do some revision due to Purgatory, so just imagine this whole story is set a month after the events of that episode. cifan70, you deserve a bottle of French wine for being such a faithful reviewer.

Chapter Four: Targets

Mike Logan sighed. Pressing the button for the elevator, he nodded to Captain Ross.

"How's it going? You're in early." his boss asked.

"Yeah, well, I couldn't sleep. Something about this last case me and Wheeler are working on bugged me."

"What is it?" Ross asked as they entered the elevator.

"I can't put my finger on it. Just something a witness said that didn't add up. She claimed that she wasn't there when we found the body, but-"

The door opened, and the detectives walked out.

"Step away from that door, Miss Lewis. I need to check on the prisoner." demanded Detective Pritchard.

"It's too late. He's not there."

"How do you know that, Miss Lewis? Where's your police escort?" Ross demanded.

"Yeah, what's going on here?" asked Logan, very curious.

"I had gone to the washroom while Detective Richardson was inside the room keeping an eye on Donny Carlson. He had agreed to follow me here because I wanted to talk to Detective Goren about these." Miss Lewis held up an envelope. "I was just about to come back into this hallway when I heard a muffled cry. I waited a minute, then entered the hallway and opened the door to find-"

"Allow me." said Logan, who had his gloves on. Andrea stepped aside.

Logan opened the door to find Richardson on his side. He was vaguely aware of Pritchard and Ross standing beside him as he examined the wound.

"Looks like a short blade right to the heart. A professional. It wasn't that painful."

"Tell that to his daughter." Pritchard added.

"He had a daughter?"

"It was with his ex wife."

Ross gazed down at the body of his dead detective for a long moment.

"I'm sorry Pritchard. Could you secure the room for the time being? I need to talk to Logan and Miss Lewis, then you."

"Of course sir." She nodded, then stood outside the door.

"Captain, you might want to invite Goren to talk with us." Miss Lewis stated as they walked to the Captain's office.

"Why?" asked the detective himself, turning in his chair.

"Logan-"

"Captain-"

"Five liters of blood, ten days to live. After that, I hope you have a peaceful grave picked out." Andrea swallowed, closed her eyes briefly and turned to leave.

"AA told you that when he first captured you, didn't he? As a warning that you belonged to only him. Someone close to him has taken someone else, and given you that warning again. It's not Donny, is it?" Goren asked desperately.

"Yes." Miss Lewis said so quietly Logan could barely hear it. She was in front of the elevator before Goren sprung out of his chair and chased after her.

"Wait, Miss Lewis. Can't you help me? Surely he wouldn't hurt Donny..." Goren pleaded.

Miss Lewis took a long breath, then turned to face Goren. She walked right up to him, and looked him in the eye.

"Let me tell you something, Detective. Something that should illustrate just exactly who you're dealing with."

"I know what kind of man AA was."

"Well, I don't know. More information is always valuable, don't you think, Goren?" piped in Logan.

"Come on." Miss Lewis demanded, and led them into the bathroom.

"Why here?"

"Alex is one of the few women in Major Case, and if you remember I used to have a little crush on you..."

To Logan's surprise, Bobby looked away. "Miss Lewis, I'm seeing someone."

She paused. "Good. Detective Logan, turn around."

"Why, are you going to do a striptease or something?"

"Men. Do you always have sex on the brain?"

"Hey, I resent that. I'm a Major Case detective, you know. I'm not exactly Romeo anymore."

"It's true. You can trust him. What is it, Miss Lewis?" Goren wanted to know.

She nodded, leaned against the wall, and lifted her shirt. The word MINE was carved into her stomach. Miss Lewis looked both shocked men in the eye, pulled down her shirt, then turned to leave.

"How long did it take for AA to do that?" hissed Logan.

"Ten days, and those are only the most visible scars. I was close to death when the FBI found me. So don't tell me what the successor to AA can or won't do. He'll have Donny as a bargaining chip for as long as possible, but he won't hesitate to kill him if he thinks he can get away with it. Is there anything else, gentleman?"

"No." stated Goren quietly. "Thank you, Miss Lewis." She nodded to both of them, handed Goren the envelope, and left.

"Wow." stated Logan. "If you need help catching this guy, you have it, Goren."

"I-thanks for offering, Logan. Now we'd better talk to Ross."

"He'll take you off the case, you know."

"Probably." conceded Goren.

His suspicion was accurate, as Ross was far from happy with Bobby, and assigned him to desk duty.

"But sir-" protested Eames.

"No. I remember what happened last time Goren got too involved. I'm not going down that road again. The department-" He paused. "I'll do my best to track down Donny, and I already have an APB everywhere in the state." Ross stated.

Goren opened his mouth, then decided against it at Ross's look. Shaking his head, he went back to his desk.

"Come on, Goren, cheer up. We'll find Donny. But we just have to be creative." Eames replied.

"I appreciate the help Eames, but you already-"

"have your back, Goren."

Goren nodded, and picked up a witness statement.

"Something doesn't add up here. There must be another reason Beth Brooks was killed."

"But why? She didn't have a criminal record, got along with everyone, and by all accounts she was an excellent citizen." Eames paused. "A little too upstanding, you're right."

Goren held up a college yearbook. "Look at this. Beth graduated with a business degree the same year that Patricia Nesoon did." Pausing to type, Goren smiled. "Nesson has got out of jail a year ago, and moved to Albany, New York."

"Fancy a drive, Goren?"

"Let's go."

"Ah, Detectives Goren and Eames. What can I do for you?" Miss Nesson said.

"You can let us in." Eames responded.

"Of course." she replied.

"Did you just finish a workout?" Eames asked.

"Of course. But I expect you want to give me another one, Detective Goren." She winked at him as she put the treadmill away and got something to drink.

Normally, when witnesses flirted with him, Bobby used it to his advantage. But he knew Nesson was just doing it to unsettle him.

"Why don't we sit down?" Eames urged.

"So have you seen AA since your release?"

Patricia smiled. "Define seen."

"Had any contact with."

"No, Detectives. Why, has he been a bad boy again?"

"You could say that." Goren replied, and placed a picture of Beth in front of her.

"So pretty. Too bad." At their silence, she looked up. "Oh, have I ever met her? No."

"She was in the same graduating class of you in college."

"So were two hundred other people. I don't attend the reunions. Can you see me, an ex con, mixing with the people in the high priced suits with the 2.4 kids and dog? I have better things to do with my time."

"Like continuing to lie to us." Eames insisted.

"Come on, Detective. Ever since my release, I've been a model citizen. Ask my parole officer if you don't believe me. His name is Fred Mills."

"Fair enough." Goren responded. "Then who did this?" He replaced the photo of Beth's face with the photo of initials carved into her thigh.

Patricia grabbed it and swallowed hard, placing the photo back down slowly. She sank back into her chair and closed her eyes.

Goren looked at Eames, put the photo away, then cleared his throat.

"Are you all right?"

"This interview is over. Get out of this house now."

"Not until we discover why you had such a reaction to this photo. Do you know who did this?"

"I said leave. Or I'll call my lawyer."

"If you do that Miss Nesson, we'll charge you with obstructing a police investigation. How would that look on your record?" Eames said.

"Fine." Patricia got up, and looked out the window. "AA is dead. I went to his funeral a month ago in Long Grove, Illinois." She turned back around. "Is that all, Detectives?"

"Yes. Thank you." Goren replied. "We'll see ourselves out."

In the car, Eames looked at Goren. "Long Grove is mostly a German community. An Italian man would have stuck out. But then AA was always the name the media gave him, not his birth name."

"He could have changed that as well. We need to check the records in Springfield. But I doubt Miss Nesson would have told us all that when she knows we can check it so easily."

"Which means that we're looking at an inside job. The only ones who knew about the mark AA left on his victims would have been your favorite people in the world: the FBI."

Goren sighed. He really hoped that he wouldn't meet Agent Blevins again. But him and Agent Cunningham had been the ones to find Miss Lewis, so they were probably in Ross's office right now.

"Listen Goren, I don't like them taking over either, but I'm sure Ross will make it known this was our case first."

"I don't care who gets the credit, I just want them to solve this quickly, find Donny, and go home." Goren looked at Eames. "How did you know Long Grove was a German town?"

"I'll answer that if you let me know why you dislike Agent Blevins."

"It's personal. He used to work with Carolyn."

"Oh yes, now I remember. I heard they had quite a fight in the stairwell last time he was here. As for knowing about Long Grove, I used to date some guy from there. Speaking of which, how is Carolyn? How was the birthday party?"

"Carolyn's fine." he stated, mainly because Bobby knew that Carolyn was Eames's friend as well.

Bobby still did not want to discuss personal things with Eames. After their fight about the Stoat case, she had never asked anything that wasn't related to the current case. Bobby had decided he should back off, and let Eames take control, because she obviously wanted more credit for her own hard work. He had never realized until her outburst that she was still struggling with the boys club of the NYPD, and that the fear that she might have killed him was what had driven her angry words.
Logan greeted them as they stepped out of the elevator.

"Ross and the Feds want to see you. Have fun."

"Thanks for the warning." Goren replied.

"Surely you didn't let him get away?" Blevins asked as Goren and Eames entered Ross's office.

"Well.." another woman began, but was cut off by a look from Ross.

"Agents Cunningham and Blevins, I'd like you to meet Detectives Goren and Eames. You'll be sharing information with them fully."

"We've met." Goren and Blevins said simultaneously.

Ross looked between the two men, but didn't comment. "Good. Then it shouldn't take you long to bring them up to speed. Cunningham, I believe you were mentioning a death certificate?"

"Yes, Captain Ross." Cunningham stood up and placed a binder on Ross's desk. Goren moved closer just as she turned to hold up a piece of paper. She raised an eyebrow at his closeness, but made no other comment.

"Alexander Abandanato. Killer of seven women. His real name is Friedrich Esser. Never married and had no siblings." She put that down, and picked up two others. "Here are the ones for his parents Helen and Oliver. They both died of natural causes, him two years before she did. As for the woman that Oliver ran away with, her name was Elizabeth Moore and she died last week during a car crash in Kansas, along with three other individuals."

"Foul play?" Goren replied, looking over the four certificates.

"Probably not. The roads had been slick from a summer rain. A truck and another car tried to slow down at the same time, and instead collided, causing Miss Moore, and the car right behind her to collide as well. She and the truck driver died on the scene, and the others died three days later. The coroner's inquest ruled it accidental."

"Impressive. For once I don't have any questions."

"Just doing my job, Detective. Can I have those papers back?"

"Of course." Bobby handed her back the death certificates. Cunningham looked into his eyes, then away quickly as she turned around. Eames smiled to herself. Why do they like Bobby all the time?
On the way out of the door, Eames made sure to fall into step with the other female detective.

"It's unusual for someone to bond so quickly with my partner." Eames observed.

"Yes, well, Blevins can also be-unorthodox." Cunningham looked at Eames and lowered her voice. "As for the rest, I know Goren's happily taken. I won't poach."

"You're right, but how did you know?"

"New socks and belt."

As Goren sat down, Eames saw that Cunningham was right.

"Well, hopefully that kind of observation will come in handy."

"I hope so too."

"Cunningham, what do you make of this?" Blevins was sitting in Eames chair, and using her computer. Eames scowled, but Blevins either didn't see it or ignored it.

"Well, it only makes sense the perp would pay cash to rent a car to drive up here, and rent another one to divert attention so we are unclear about his or her arrival date in New York. That's the most untraceable way-"

"but I've been through receipts and he didn't stop for gas." finished Goren.

"Then he rented within the state, and didn't have to stop." Eames clarified.

"Here. It says a Patrick Foster rented a Toyota Corolla at the Enterprise lot in Buffalo, New York. He took a Greyhound bus ride from Toronto, Ontario."

"But how the heck did he get the knife across the border? Particularly now that the security is much tighter." Goren wondered.

"If he took out the panel behind the front seat, he could fit almost anything in there." As everyone looked at her, Cunningham continued, "I used to work Customs before I was an FBI Agent. You wouldn't believe what some people would do or attempt to bring into this country, especially on the Mexican border."

"She's right. Wheeler and I picked up an entire van full of illegals from Mexico in our last investigation." added Logan, who was sitting at the desk across from them.

"And you are-" asked Blevins with strong disapproval.

"just adding my input to your investigation. But if that's not allowed, I'll go back to my paperwork." Logan quickly clarified.

"Please do." Goren and Eames looked at each other.


"Carolyn, it's good to see you. I hope you didn't miss me." quipped Nass as he sat down in his desk.

"Of course I did. I trust you had a good time?"

"Gentleman don't tell."

"That good, Nass? Well, I hate to break your good mood, but I could really use your help." Carolyn handed him some files.

"Ah, you weren't able to close a case without me? How flattering."

"More like aggravating."

"So, Richard probably killed Sally, but you had to let him go? He-" Nass looked up at her in concern. "Are you sure your ankle is all right?"

"I'm fine, Nass. I just want this case to be over."

"Detective Barek, I need you and Nass on a scene downtown. It looks like your killer has stuck again." Captain Anerand declared.

"All right." replied Barek, already on the way to the elevator.

"Can I drive?" requested Nass. She tossed him the keys, and they were off.

"So what makes you think this is the same guy?" Barek demanded of the officer on duty.

"Her name is Molly Nelson. Lately, she had been seen in the company of Richard, and three different witnesses place her in this bar last night." The officer gestured to the Irish pub they were outside.

"She's been drinking, that's for sure." replied Nass, crouched over the corpse. "But that's not what killed her." He turned up her fingernails. "Defensive wounds, certainly, so she was taken by surprise and fought back." Moving Molly's head slightly, he peered closer. "She has marks on her neck, probably because she was strangled."

Carolyn leaned down, and a moment later, held something up. "Would a shoelace work? She's missing it on the right dress shoe, so she was probably going out to meet someone important. Also she's wearing a nice dress and missing her earrings and necklace." She handed the shoelace to a tech.

Getting up, Carolyn felt dizzy and had to grab onto a light-post to remain standing.

"You all right?"

"Yeah, just got up too fast. I-" Something glinted off the light, and Carolyn looked down to pick up a white gold ring with a blue stone right by the sewer.

"Interesting. How would the perp get the rest of the jewelry and forgot this? It looks like an engagement ring. Definitely worth at least a few thousand."

"Good point, Barek." Nass turned to the officer. "Was Molly with anyone last night?"

"We haven't questioned the bar owner yet."

"So Richard, it's nice to finally meet you." Nass replied two days later.

"I have no idea why I'm even back here." he growled.

"You don't recognize this woman?" Carolyn slid a picture of Molly closer to Richard.

"No, of course-" Richard grabbed the picture of Molly, paled, then pushed it back toward Carolyn.

"Counsellor, does your client have something to say?" pressed Nass.

"I never thought that-" he softly replied.

"Never thought what? That a person you respected would begin to kill women? Is that what you were going to say?" Nass clarified.

Richard nodded.

"If you don't want to go to jail for this, we'll need more details then that." Carolyn continued.

Richard sat back and sighed. "You know I told you about Mark? He's losing power right now in Boston. There's this guy in New York... Mark told me that the Eastsiders have to take back this city from him, show him who is boss."

"By murdering three innocent civilians?"

"Michael and Sally were married, and Mark had good information that they were helping to make the counterfeit money that had almost crippled the mill."

"From this New York guy? But how would he know?"

"Listen, I don't know. But he's- Mark says that he's not to be crossed. As for Molly, I was sent to kill her so that I could trade her jewelry. I got three thousand for it."

"You missed a piece." Nass replied, and pushed the ring forward.

"Molly was engaged? That was on her right hand, not her left. How-"

"So then you admit that you killed her?"

"I never said that."

"No, but only the killer could have known what hand the jewelry was on. Richard McDougall, you're under arrest for the murder of Molly Nelson." Nass handed the young man over to two other officers, then turned back to see Carolyn still staring at the ring.

"Three thousand dollars. Who knew love was that cheap?" she mused.

"What, you don't think you'll ever get married, Barek? I didn't until I met Alison." Nass replied.

"No, at least not right now."

"Goren might surprise you."

"Perhaps." Carolyn grabbed the conviction report, and Nass got the hint.

Hmmm interesting. I wonder if Richard killed Beth also. I am thinking the 2 cases are related but can't figure out how except that they wouldn't both be in the story if they weren't. Now the FBI is involved in this. Carolyn getting dizzy as she stands?? Preggers maybe?? Just a thought. I can't figure out why else she would get dizzy.

Oh and I don't drink alcohol of any kind. Your offer is very generous. You could replace that wine with Mountain Dew and that would just make my day. I drink that all day long. I love the story.

Richard becomes important by making a throw away comment that Carolyn connects to Beth. I'm aware that Agent Blevins is not the nicest person in the world, but you'll discover a little more about why that is next chapter. There's more to him then meets the eye... I seriously hadn't thought about Carolyn being pregnant; I intended her to just stand up too fast so that she could see Molly's ring (but you're giving me ideas now...). Sure, I'll give you some Mountain Dew. I'm not much of a drinker myself (1 or 2 times a year, maybe). Thanks for the encouragement.

I am glad I could thro a suggestion your way. I very seldom do that with any story. I just read and review and that's it. I really do love the Carolyn/Bobby relationship too. A very nice change from the B/A even though I am writing it, kinda. You get tired of it after a while, you know.

Yes, even when I review other work, I only rarely suggest improvements. Though given the response to this Carolyn/Bobby trilogy (which has been wonderful), I might just do something after this. Though it requires a large amount of suspension of disbelief for me to read B/A, that's because quite often they are put in situations in stories that don't seem realistic to their characters or what we see on the show (and I know you have a good reason for them being married). I saw this trilogy as a good way to expand more on Barek's character on the show. She's usually paired with Logan, and while there's nothing wrong with that, I wanted to try romance with a character that seemed to have a little more in common with her (because they are both profilers).

I've waited until reading through all of it before posting much. I'm really enjoying your story. Please watch your grammar, though, unless you really mean for the characters to come off "dumb". Also watch that your verb tenses match. You often use "then" when the correct word would be "than". You may want to find someone who can proofread your work before you post it.

The plot is great and you have a nice feel for the characters and how they react in certain situations.

I'm enjoying the story. I love pairing Bobby and Carolyn. Different and nicely done.

Keep up the good work!

Yes, my verb tenses could use some work. I usually employ past tense, but sometimes that doesn't convey the immediacy of a scene, and my transitions are not the best. As for grammer, what do you mean come off dumb? Please give me an example. See, this is exactly why I'd love someone to read this through before I post. Any volunteers out there? I already have an idea for a sequel in mind, but I don't really know if I want to go forward with it. I'm satisfied with the ending I've written.

Thanks for the compliment about the plot and characters. It's sometimes difficult to find things you know the characters haven't encountered, and as for the pairing, it's something quite unique, which is why I wanted to try it. Thanks for all of your points. It's only when people are honest about what they do and don't like that I can get better as a writer.

I cut out everything but the part here with the grammar mistake. I really don't recall Logan ever speaking with improper grammar. This should be "Wheeler and I". There are places in the other chapters and parts....The rule to decide if it's right is to use each part separately. 'Wheeler picked up' works, but 'me picked up' does not. See? Hope this helps.

You're absolutely correct, flashymom. Thanks for the reminder. I reread the sentence, and thought, opps. *blushes at simple mistake* If you could PM me with the other mistakes, I'll fix them right away. Usually, my grammer is pretty good, but obviously I missed some things here and there. Logan (and the other characters) do know how to speak well. I really do need to find a beta, but I guess I was so surprised and flattered at the good response these stories have gotten that I forgot that. Anyone want to volunteer? Please?

This chapter is finally done, and it demonstrates that just when you think everything is going so well, things get complicated... Please review.


Chapter Five: Suspicions

"Where the heck were you? You're ten minutes late." snapped Blevins.

"Sorry. I could have told Logan to speed, I suppose..." replied Cunningham.

"You were out with him?"

Cunningham's eyes narrowed. "Let me make one thing clear, Blevins. My private life has nothing whatsoever to do with this case. Now, I think Goren and Eames had something to say about their interview today?"

Goren cleared his throat. "Yes, we do, Agent. We went down to the warehouse in Staten Island where Beth worked. They process fish, cod to be precise. The manager, a Dalia Astrauckas, who moved here from Lithuania five years ago, runs a really tight ship. Dalia seemed sad that Beth was dead, but when we pointed out that two million dollars is missing from the company employee shareholder plan over a three year period, she seemed surprised and vowed that she would investigate."

"So you don't think she has anything to do with this?" Ross inquired.

"No, Captain." Eames stated. "Miss Astrauckas has a clean record, and recently got US citizenship. Though some of the others on the floor didn't really want to talk to us."

"So then they could have known where this missing money is." Blevins stated.

The doorbell rang.

"I'll get it." offered Eames.

"Oh, hi, Alex, how are you? I hope I'm not interrupting anything." Carolyn replied.

"Actually, we were in the middle of a strategy session." Alex looked behind her, then closed the door, stepping outside with Carolyn. "Donny has gone missing, and someone who knew AA has killed a woman. The FBI are here to investigate."

"I understand. I'll be at the Holiday Inn if Bobby wants to talk. Good night, Alex."

"Good night, Carolyn."

"Who was that?" Blevins asked once Alex had sat back down again.

"Sergeant Barek. Now-"

"Ah, I see. I hope you haven't told her anything, Detective Goren."

"No, I haven't."

"Good. See that it remains that way. I wouldn't want this investigation to be jeopardized by a stray word in the heat of the moment."

At Goren's furious look, Cunningham grabbed his arm and steered him into the kitchen. She glanced around once, then ordered Blevins to sit before closing the door.

"What? It's a valid concern. It's happened before..." Blevins protested.

"Not with Carolyn."

"But she slept with her former partner. That, and the paperwork, were the reasons she left. Everyone around the Agency knows that. At least she had the sense to feel guilty about violating protocol. If Barek gets involved in this investigation, Goren will be useless. He's already agitated about his nephew, and if his girlfriend gets captured..."

"Taking a cop would be stupid. Especially since the NYPD and the FBI are looking for him. As for Carolyn, this feud between you has gone on long enough. It's time to admit the real reason you don't like her."

Blevins flushed. "You heard our fight then?"

"It was a little hard not to. But it's more then that. I know about your biological mother."

Blevins nodded. "I- yeah. I guess I believed that it didn't matter, that being an illegitimate son had no affect on me. But maybe it did make me want to prove myself, to show that I was just as good as everyone else." He shook his head. "Then Carolyn, just like my mother, slept with Smith and gave away her reputation and her career... Stupid." He clenched his fist.

"She didn't." Blevins gave her a sharp look. "Listen, you can't tell anyone." Cunningham leaned closer. "One night, after a long stakeout, they went back to her apartment. Things got really intense-well, they broke it off before they couldn't turn back. The next day, she decided to work alone. Carolyn discovered she liked it, and left when the rumors didn't stop because she didn't want to totally ruin Smith's reputation."

"I- that would explain why Smith transferred to the LA office two weeks after she left."

"Exactly. Now why don't we join the others, and you can apologize to Goren."

"Fine. Thanks, Cunningham." She nodded.

They got back to the room to find only Captain Ross and Eames there.

"Where did Goren go?" Cunningham asked.

"Out." Eames stated. Blevins sat down slowly. If Goren had overheard his conversation...

"Well, I think that's enough for tonight anyway. Why don't we all go home and get some sleep? 9 AM at 1PP tomorrow?"

"Goren and Eames have tomorrow off. But I'll be there." Ross replied.

"See you then, Captain."


Thirty minutes later, Carolyn was curled up with a good book when her cell rang.

"Barek. Tina? No, you-" Carolyn paused right before hanging up. Something sounded familiar. "Wait. Is this Sam? Oh, hi, I didn't recognize you at first. Where and when? All right."

Dressed in a low cut gown, Carolyn carefully walked around the waterfront. She detected movement, and turned. An arm went around her waist and another around her mouth. Carolyn struggled.

"Be quiet, woman. It took you long enough."

Stunned, Carolyn turned to see a man she only vaguely recognized by the voice. Then again, Agent Blevins was always good at disguises.

"Who are you tracking?" she whispered.

"Number 87 of the top 100 FBI most wanted."

Carolyn paused, and did indeed hear three men making their way toward them.

"What do I do?"

"Follow my lead."

"Well, hello Sam. Who is this pretty lady?" came a voice.

"This is Tina. I hope you don't mind if she comes along?"
The man, whose face was hidden by shadows, scowled, and then looked 'Tina' up and down. "As long as she keeps quiet."

"Of course. I'm a good girl." 'Tina' made sure to make her voice lower then it normally was.

"Come on." The man turned around, and his two associates walked behind her and 'Sam'. 'Tina' could feel the eyes of the other men on her, but kept a tight leash on her emotions. She was here to do a job.

"Get inside and wait here."

'Tina' followed the man's instructions as he scurried off. The warehouse was filled with tables along the walls and several doors on both long sides of the building, as well as a staircase that led to another floor. Fish was all she could smell. The light was dim, kept that way to keep her and 'Sam' off guard.

A heavy tread shattered her thoughts.

"Hello, Sam. What have you brought me this time?" another rough voice demanded.

'Sam' drew out an .44 Magnum. The second man stepped forward to grab it, and 'Tina' quickly got a glimpse of brown eyes as she determined to stare at the floor.

"Quite nice. I'd say it's worth five hundred. Pay him." The first man gave 'Sam' some money, which was slipped in his jacket. He and 'Tina' turned to leave.

"Tell me. How close are they to discovering the boy?"

"I- I trust that you will still release him?"

"Probably. Bipolar disorder can be rather difficult to handle."

"What about Brooks?"

"Of course I hate to lose any of my employees. But I really had no other choice."

"There are always choices."

Before 'Tina' could move, her and 'Sam' had guns trained on them.

"You're right. I think it's time to end this partnership, Agent. Good night."

Carolyn could hear the man walking away and began to struggle. A needle was plunged into her arm. Everything faded.

Her lungs couching up water, Carolyn crawled onto the shore of Brighton Beach. Spying a rock, she grabbed it. After some long minutes, she was able to get herself free. Standing slowly and shivering, she surveyed her surroundings. Everything-a man lay far down the beach. Forcing her stiff legs into motion, Carolyn rolled him onto his back to reveal the pale face of Blevins. He wasn't breathing. Without a second thought, she went into action.

"Don't you die on me, Andrew. Come on, come on." she intoned between the CPR.

A raspy breath greeted her efforts, and she turned Blevins onto his side only to have him lose his stomach.

"I..." he looked up, and quickly away. Carolyn untied him and helped him to his feet.

"You all right?"

"Yes. Thanks."

"Don't mention it. Now why don't we see if we can find some shelter and you can tell me just why you have a death wish."

Blevins was silent as they began to move off the beach.

"Carolyn, I'm sorry. I knew Anthony Wellington was getting closer to me, and I thought you could handle it. But he had already found out who I really was. If my cover was blown, I at least wanted some assurance he would release Carlson."

"Why did you drag me into this, Blevins? Because I had worked this case before? Or was it because you didn't want Cunningham involved?"

"I- you know that's unfair. You agreed to come, and I needed backup."

"Who exactly is this Wellington guy, anyway?" Carolyn questioned.

"Anthony works for number 87, Victor Yap. If it shoots, Yap has it, and he's not particular about his clients. After you arrested the last guy in charge, Greg Hofer, I was asked to infiltrate this operation from within because- well, Anthony is now in charge of the US operation and he used to be one of us."

"You mean FBI?"

"Exactly." Blevins confirmed grimly. "The director didn't want this to become public knowledge because before the accident that led to his discharge, Wellington was well respected. He helped to solve the kidnapping of the director's daughter."

"What kind of accident?"

"Wellington fell ten stories when he was trying to get a guy down from the roof of a building. He had to get a new leg, plastic surgery, and even then... It was rumored that his wife and son left him because he was so changed, inside and out."

"Just the kind of individual that Yap could use to get the weapons that would have gotten the highest prices on the black market. Because he would feel that he had nothing else left to lose. Speaking of weapons, your fingerprints are on the Magnum."

"No, I was wearing gloves, and the Magnum was legally purchased. That's why I wanted to catch Wellington in selling weapons, so I could have some evidence against him." Blevins reached in his pocket. "Wellington has the money now, and so it's my word against his. Besides, his main supplier is now dead."

"One of his suppliers was this Brooks woman?"

"I suspected as much, and Wellington just confirmed it for me. He had gotten Beth's brother off a cocaine possession charge that would have seen him in jail for quite a while. In return, he demanded weapons, and wiped all traces of the thefts from the system. Somehow, one of Beth's thefts went badly, and Yap decided he couldn't afford the liability anymore. So he ordered Wellington to kill her."

"If you knew all of this, why didn't you tell Goren?"

"Until now, I didn't make the connection from Carlson to Brooks and Wellington."

"So it's all about weapons. Beth and Donny were just a diversion. The real target was..." Carolyn turned slowly to her former coworker in realization.

"Yes. Detective Richardson just happened to be in the way. Wellington wanted to get my attention with how he marked Beth so he could lure me into a trap."

"So what do we do now? Wellington will find out soon enough that we're not dead, and then-" Carolyn swallowed, then gasped.

"What?"

"I just recently arrested a man named Richard in Boston that claimed there was a powerful man in New York, someone that you didn't want to cross. Do you think he was talking about Wellington?"

Blevins looked at Carolyn for a long moment. "If he was, then that means Wellington has recruited a great number of people that left when I rounded up his stockpiles in Nevada, Montana, Alaska, and Kentucky. This is bigger then I suspected." He paused. "Give me some time to think up a plan, but until then, let's both lay low. As of now, this is an undercover operation with the highest level of security. You are now on 24 hr notice to move to a secure facility when I call. I'll bring Cunningham into it as well, as I trust her. There might be one other Agent. But no one else."

"But Anerand, Nass, & Goren-"

"I'll tell your captain it's an undercover operation, and I'm sure your partner will do just fine without you. Surely you can keep your boyfriend out of this? You know what could happen otherwise."

Carolyn nodded reluctantly.

Oh boy, the tension is mounting......yikes!

Thanks, flashymom. This chapter was hard to write, mainly because I wanted to make it believable that Carolyn would get involved in the case. IMO, Carolyn feels a sense of obligation to wrap up a case that has dragged on for twenty years, which is why she helped out Blevins. Cunningham and Logan feature heavily in the next chapter.

Well this is getting very interesting and scary imo. I hope no one gets seriously hurt. I know how Bobby likes to protect people and if he doesn't know about this being that it is undercover, just say I am worried.

Thanks for the review, cifan. As for people being hurt, well, I can't give too much away. You're right that Bobby likes to be left in the loop, and it will not be good when he discovers this...

This is a short update before the last chapter, which I had to seperate into an epilogue as well for the sake of clarity and length. I hope you enjoy.


Chapter Six: Circular Motion

Three weeks later:

"Bobby-"

"I'm here, Donny." Bobby turned to his partner. "I'm riding with him in the ambulance."

"Of course. Let me just tell the Captain."

"Are you sure you're all right?" Bobby asked his nephew once they had left Central Park.

"I- well I always had food and water, even if there wasn't much of anything else in the room. How did you find me, anyway?"

"Eames got a call that you were in Central Park, and when we figured out it was legit, we came by."

"Thanks." Donny drifted off, and Bobby looked up at the paramedic.

"Don't worry, Detective. We'll take good care of him."


Cunningham looked around the bullpen and took a deep breath. "All right, Blevins, what's going on?"

"I'm just done the paperwork for this latest case..."

Cunningham waited for him to sign the last piece of paper, then took away his pen.

"Don't play dumb with me, Blevins. That note that made you look like you wanted to loose your lunch- what did it say? Why did you excuse yourself to make some calls at lunch?"

Blevins looked up into his partner's eyes.

"Want to come over for a movie tonight?" Blevins kept it quiet.

Cunningham blinked, taken aback, but nodded. Now, I'm really curious, she thought. That's the first time he's invited me over to his place in five years of being his partner, which means something serious must be going on.

After they had watched Pretty Woman (at her request), Cunningham set aside her pop and turned to her partner.

"All right, what's going on?"

He got up, and brought back a newspaper article.

"Today, Dalia Astrauckas, the manager of a major fish plant in New York, was found dead in one of the freezers of her own plant. Preliminary reports leave the police to believe she was poisoned, though any one with information is asked to contact Detective Goren or Eames at the NYPD Major Case Squad, as there is a possibility the victim is associated with another criminal individual. A large supply of weapons was found on the second floor of the plant."

Cunningham sat down. "You can't mean the same guy that killed both Beth and Dalia also kidnapped Donny Carlson? But why, and why did he keep Donny past the deadline?"

"What I tell you stays between us. When Goren investigated into his nephew's disappearance, he accidently found out the location of a major weapons stockpile. The manager Dalia was killed because Anthony Wellington, the guy in charge of hiding those weapons in the warehouse, was worried that Goren and Eames would find something odd in her finances. Just five weeks ago, Wellington had two million in a secret bank account under Dalia's part of the employee shares in order to spread the money trail around. I checked about three weeks ago, and there is now only three dollars in there. I haven't been able to track down the rest, though I know the money is in six other accounts. As for keeping Carlson, the longer he was missing, the longer Goren wouldn't be tracking down Wellington."

"So then Anthony carved the initials into Beth to lead us down the trail of AA. But then he's-"

"Not everyone who upholds the law continues along that path forever, Cunningham. As for the note..." He handed her a slip of paper.

Cunningham read aloud:

Dear Sam,
I hope you and Tina are all right. I'll be sure to bring nice flowers to your funerals.
Yours, Anthony

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"The case was on a need to know basis..."

"So you're only telling me now when your life is in danger?"

"Cunningham, I had no choice. The orders came right from the director."

She sighed. "Fine. All right, I'll help you. What do you want me to do?"

Blevins went to a picture on the wall and revealed a safe. He handed Cunningham a big stack of documents. They contained pictures of weapons, big and small.

"This should be everything Wellington had stored in the warehouse, as well as his other stockpiles, though I was unable to complete the inventory before he got suspicious. I need you to take over this investigation and inform Captain Ross that you need the Wellington case file."

"Yes, of course. I'll be on the road tomorrow. Good night, Blevins. Take care."

"You too."


"I'm sorry, Agent Cunningham, but I can't give you the Wellington case without more information about why the FBI wants it. He was arrested within New York City, which is my jurisdiction." Captain Ross firmly stated two days later.

"As I've stated Captain, this is a code delta, which means this has to do with an undercover investigation still in process. If that's your final decision, expect to see a subpoena on your desk by tomorrow. Good bye."

"Wait a minute-"

Cunningham glanced at the display of her ringing phone as she walked out of the office into the Major Case bullpen.

"Wicked Witch." She listened for a moment, then glanced over her shoulder. Ross was right behind her. "Good. No. Tell Judge Higgs I need her assistance with case file 876541-AWABAC. Thanks. Bye."

"Agent..." Taking a deep breath, Cunningham turned to find a furious Ross.

"What gives you the right to-"

"want to protect the men and women who rely on me to close this investigation? Nothing, other then the fact I'd rather not see them dead. Now if there's nothing else, I'll pick up what I need to prevent that tomorrow. See you then, Captain." Without another word, she turned around, sidestepped a shocked Logan, and went for the stairs.

Why is it that men are so territorial, Cunningham mused as she headed for her car in the parking garage. I'm sure that I filled up the oil recently so why... Grabbing a pocket light, Cunningham got under her car, only to be confronted by flashing lights. She ran. Seconds after she took cover, a bright flash of light engulfed her car. Cunningham waited a moment, then slowly moved toward the wreckage. The metal was still smoldering.

"Agent Cunningham! Are you all right?" cried Captain Ross, who was running toward her.

"I'm-" She swallowed. "I'm fine."

"Why exactly do you think this bomb was targeted for you?"

Cunningham stepped closer, shining a pocket light on what remained of her car. "See how the other car was thrown into the post, and managed to crack it in the middle? That would require a very high yield. Wellington wasn't taking any chances, but then considering who he works for, I'm not surprised."

"Holy crap." cried Logan, who had followed Ross. "What the hell happened here?"

Ross looked at Logan. "Detective, I need you to protect Cunningham while I ask Goren and Eames to see if they can track down who supplied this bomb. Oh, and one more thing, Cunningham. Who exactly is Wellington working for?"

"Number 87 on the top 100 FBI list. He's responsible for at least ten million dollars in weapons dealing over the last twenty years. I'm not his only targeted hit, and that's all I can say for now. Come on, Detective Logan."

"What is it?" answered Cunningham wearily later that day when her phone rang.

"Just tell me all of it. But surely Wellington didn't wipe all the serial numbers from the system?" Collapsing on the bed, she closed her eyes as she got an affirmative answer.

"All right. Is there anything else?" She sat straight up. "Wellington is in Taiwan? All right, let our agents there begin a search of the mountains. Good night." Hanging up, Cunningham put her phone on the table and took off her shoes and jacket. Walking around, she joined Logan at the window.

"Some days, it's just not worth getting out of bed."

"Tell me about it." Logan looked at her pale face. "Do you want to talk about it? I'm not a counselor, but I've definitely had more then my share of bad days."

She looked at him. "I thought I recognized the name. You spent some time on Staten Island, right?"

"Yes. That seems to be the worst kept secret in the force."

"Well, we all make mistakes."

"Hey. If there's anything I've learned, it's that there's usually more then enough guilt to go around. The best we can do is just continue, taking everything as it comes."

"I- you're probably right."

"No. I know I'm right."

Cunningham smiled slightly. "All the time?"

"Well, no one's perfect." He yawned. "I'll be sitting in that chair over there tonight, though if you want to change, I can go into the bathroom."

"Thanks. Good night, Detective."

"Call me Mike. Can I call you Anna?"

"Don't push it."

"Me? Never." stated Logan.

Very nice. I love the banter between Logan and Cunningham there at the end. No first name basis for her. The case is coming along nicely too. Keep it coming. I am addicted.

Thanks for the review. Yes, I thought the last thing that Cunningham needed after her awful day was to have Logan flirt with her...
But at least she can handle that just as well as the car bomb. Logan really liked her standing up to Ross, and although I originally had her be intrigued by Mike's background, Anna's a little too worried about Blevins and Carolyn to have much time for romance right now. You'll find out what Carolyn has been up to next chapter.

Can't wait for more! Need it now! Another one that has me on the floor......waiting.....not so patiently.....while eating tacos and triple chocolate cheesecake......(gotta love Mario!)

This is riveting... keep it coming....

Ah, thanks. I'm glad that I can keep you reading. If I have to wait until Thursdays to watch new episodes when everyone else sees them on Sundays, then you can probably wait until next week... But take a seat and relax with the food/beverage of your choice until then.

NEXT WEEK?????!!!!!? I'll be on VACATION next week! I'll have the laptop, but hubby'll have my head if I spend as much time on the laptop during our vacation as I do while he's at work......

Oh right, I forgot. I hope you have a good vacation, and I understand if you don't check this story. Enjoy spending time with your family. When you get back, you