"All in the Family" is the first of three stories in a new series. If you've read the Cabin series, thank you! This set of stories is separate, as the just plots wouldn't leave my mind. I do plan to continue to follow the Flynns as they enjoy retirement in their cozy cabin, however. I'm just very new to writing and wanted to try this new direction, but I promise to get back to the "Flying Monkey" very soon. With a few exceptions, of course, these characters are not mine. Just imaginary playmates, I suppose.

All in the Family

Merry, Christmas, Darling

Christmas in L.A. Artificial greenery and red bunting were draped across building facades, and festive lighting was strung from one lamppost to the next. It was on the chilly side, for California anyway. With temperatures in the mid-fifties, it actually felt like the holiday season. It did nothing, however, to improve the traffic situation, or the flaring tempers it brought about. Christmas was only days away. Her children would be arriving over the weekend. She couldn't wait to have all three of them together. It had certainly been a while. They would be joining Andy's two for Christmas Day at his daughter's home. She had been dancing with excitement all week, baking and decorating for days.

That morning had put a dent in her holiday spirit. An accident on the docks had taken out their last remaining witness to the murder of Judge Martin Whitlow, and there was a very real possibility that the head of the Berlusconi crime family would walk. Yes, they had prints and biological evidence tying the suspected killer, Lorenzo Esposito, to the murder. Esposito was just a low-level goon for Berlusconi though, and they wanted the big fish himself, not just his trigger man.

Their two eye-witnesses, a mid-level employee of Berlusconi, and a dock-worker at the Port, were the only ones able to tie the boss to the hit he had ordered. Both were now dead.

Esposito had been ready to deal, to name his boss in exchange for serving a life sentence. However, given the events of the morning, and the implications, he was no longer so sure. His fear of Berlusconi ran as deep as the Pacific. If he could take care of the other obstacles, he could certainly take care of him. No, he would keep his mouth closed.

As she watched the web of traffic through her office window, she sighed heavily. So much for my perfect family Christmas, she thought to herself.

A gentle knock sounded on her door. Without turning from her view of the city, she mumbled, "Come in." She heard the door close behind her and felt, rather than heard, his footsteps approaching. When his hands rested upon her shoulders, she sighed again. When he drew her back against his chest, she allowed it, and melted into his warmth.

"Hey," he murmured. He nuzzled her neck and placed a gentle kiss there.

"We're at work," she stated, but showed no sign of moving away from him. He held her tighter still and assured her.

"Provenza's in the break room, Mike and Buzz are in electronics, and Sykes and Sanchez made a lunch run." When she finally turned in his arms, he looked in her eyes and sighed at the disappointment he found there. He raised a hand to gently stroke her cheek and said, "Hey. This doesn't ruin all our plans, you know. Hobbs got a continuance. We'll get back to it after the break and we'll nail 'im. We can even take a few fours and review everything we've got. The kids won't be around the condo all the time."

"That's no way to spend our vacation, Andy," she told him.

"I know, but I also know part of you won't be able to just forget about it for the next week either. We'll just set aside a little time to go through the evidence with fresh eyes. We'll still have Christmas with our kids. Hey, at least we weren't planning to travel to them. We'd have had to cancel for sure. At least they're coming home." He watched her for any sign that she was following him, sharing his optimism.

"Yes, that's true. Ok, this is what we'll do." She stood taller and gave a shake of her head, as if clearing out her negative thoughts. "We'll drive out to Hollenbeck and check out the evidence. They're taking too long to get it couriered over and I want to dig through it back here this evening. Per Assistant Chief Taylor, I have to send everyone home promptly at five, due to the shutdown. But it won't stop me from coming back here to see what I can put together. I won't be able to just leave for the holiday knowing Berlusconi is going to walk."

Andy sighed. It was not how he'd planned his Friday night, but she was right. He'd never get her mind off the case anyway.

"Alright. Let's go. It's liable to take us a good hour or more in this traffic. We'll grab something to eat and bring it all back here."

"I'm sorry," she said, laying a hand over his heart. "Not exactly a romantic date night." He covered her hand with his own.

"We'll lower the lights and turn on some music," he joked playfully. "It'll be fine." They shared a look,92 then finally moved apart.

Sharon grabbed her coat and purse and made for the door, Andy in tow.

"I'll just grab my keys," he said. He opened the door for her, and upon leaving her office she found none other than her ex-husband, Jack, sitting on the corner of Andy's desk, his eyes on a stack of paperwork. Sharon and Andy froze in unison.

"Jack, what are you doing here?"

Jackson Raydor turned to face his former wife with a ready smile that fell the instant he saw her lieutenant behind her.

"Wow, some greeting, Shar-ron. I see Flynn her is rubbing off on you," he sneered.

"Hello, Jack. You're looking, uh, tanned. Now, what are you doing here?"

Andy stuffed his hands in his pants pockets, rocked back on his heels, and puffed his lower lip out, managing to avoid the smile he felt creeping up.

"I came to talk about Christmas! I know the kids are coming in this weekend and just wanted to know what the plans were. You hadn't called or texted. It'll be great having the four of us together at Christmas. Just like old times."

Sharon turned to look at Andy. When he met her gaze, she gave him a look which asked Is he for real? Turning to once again face her former husband, she regarded him with a cool eye.

"Well, Jack. My plans with my three children are set. The five of us," she altered her stance and gestured toward Andy, "Will have dinner before Mass on Christmas Eve, and then we will be joining Andy's children for Christmas Day. If you'd like to call Ricky and Emily, I'm sure the three of you can set aside some time to spend together while they're here. I know they would like that."

Jack stared at her, his eyes wide and his jaw dropped.

"What about being together? The four of us? Sharon, come on. It's Christmas!"

"Jack, the last time the four of us were together for Christmas, Ricky was in diapers. There is no four of us. If you want to see the children, call them yourself." She spoke plainly, but not unkindly, with soft eyes.

With that, she moved on to speak to Lieutenant Provenza, who had just returned from the breakroom with a fresh cup of coffee.

"Lieutenant, Andy and I are headed to Evidence Management to collect everything on the Berlusconi case. Hollenbeck is short-staffed like everyone else, and I don't want to wait on the evidence transfer. Barring anything new, please send everyone home at five." She turned to her partner. "Andy? Ready?"

Andy simply grinned as he reached around Jack to grab his coat and keys. "Yes, Ma'am."

Sharon called softly beyond him. "Merry Christmas, Jack."

Sharon looked toward Provenza again and smiled. "Thank you, Lieutenant." Provenza nodded and replied,

"Captain."

As Sharon and Andy made their exit, Provenza turned toward Jack and asked, "Anything else I can help you with, Jack?"

The Siege

Traffic was a nightmare. They crept up the street, Andy's ire rising minute by minute. Only Sharon's hand on his thigh kept it from boiling over.

"Well," she sighed. "We wanted more quality time together." She gave him a side-glance and smiled.

He squeezed her hand where it rested atop his leg.

"I think your idea of quality time is a bit different from mine, babe," he said. "I was thinking soft lighting, soft music, soft hands." He winked at her. Sharon turned her hand over in his and braided their fingers together.

"I know. I'm still trying to find the positive in all this. Help me out," she chuckled.

"I know," he said, lifting her hand to his lips for a kiss. "We'll dig into this tonight, maybe tomorrow before we set it aside for Christmas. You'll feel better, like you've done whatever you could, then we'll enjoy our holiday. Everything's ready, yes?"

She resituated herself in her seat so she could better see him. They were all but stopped, barely moving at all.

"I think so. It'll be tight, as usual, but we'll make it work. Baking is done, gifts are wrapped and under the tree. The boys' presents are all in the large gift bag behind the tree, along with the gifts for Nicole and Dean. Are you all finished?"

"All finished," he nodded. "I picked up your dress and our suits from the cleaners the other day. They're on the back of the bathroom door."

"Thank you. I appreciate that. So many meetings this week. Trying to get everything in before the holiday. It doesn't look as if the shutdown will be over anytime soon. What with determining essential workers and reallocating resources, it's been one thing after another."

"I'm afraid you're right, and speaking of, you know there's just a skeleton crew out at Evidence Management. Just the desk sergeant and a couple of clerks. We're on our own."

"I've got the file number. Hopefully, we can make quick work of it," she assured him.

"Hope so," he huffed. "I don't share your confidence in the clowns down at Hollenbeck."

Their hour's drive took two. They parked along the street that stretched along the side of Hollenbeck Station. What little sunlight had made an appearance was quickly descending behind the large grey structure. The wing which housed the active files and evidence lockers was situated toward the rear of the building, and while it had its own door in back, it was currently inaccessible. With the ongoing government shutdown in full force, available resources were relegated to officers on the street, not file clerks in the basement.

Andy and Sharon made their way across the lobby, registered with the front desk, and crossed the wide space to the elevator bank. Selecting the button for the basement level, Sharon leaned back to rest against the wall of the cabin. Instead, she found herself leaning against Andy's chest. Instantly, she took a deep, cleansing breath, and slowly let it go.

"Thank you again for this, Andy. I know we were supposed to kick off our holiday week tonight. This isn't what we'd planned for our Friday night," she lamented, giving him a rueful smile.

He wrapped an arm across her chest from where he stood behind her, and nuzzled her neck.

"It's really alright, Sweetheart. I doubt we'd have had much luck leaving the case behind tonight anyway. There are just too many moving parts to this one." Witnesses were dropping dead; Esposito was getting antsy. They had the necessary evidence to get him dead to rights, but they'd need his cooperation to get his boss. "Let's grab the files and get it all back to the Murder Room. Worst case, we nail Esposito, but I'm betting that sexy brain of yours is gonna find something on Berlusconi that everyone else has missed."

In response, she only sighed.

Exiting the cabin, they approached the clerk seated at a glass-encased counter. After showing their badges and signing in, they were admitted. They took a minute to orient themselves to the basement-level evidence unit almost the size of a gymnasium. Multi-level shelves were labeled on the end, much like a library, with file numbers. The most recent additions, those of active cases, were labeled as such and located on the wall to the right.

Sharon drew the slip of paper containing the Berlusconi file number from her pocket and held it up to the florescent lighting overhead. Scanning the numbers printed on labels affixed to the cartons in front of her, her eyes finally landed on the crate she sought.

"There," she pointed to a shelf just above her. Andy reached around her to lift the carton from its perch.

"Got it." He pulled the box free and gave her an odd look as he turned to place it on the empty counter behind him. "Kinda light."

Sharon reached around him and lifted the lid.

"Aw, hell," Andy grumbled.

The elevator opened to the parking garage, and Lieutenant Provenza stepped out with Julio Sanchez just behind him.

"Come on, Sir. You can ride with me. That way, I can drop you at home if you start your celebration a little early," Julio suggested.

"Ha! I appreciate it, Julio, but I'm planning to come back after we eat. I've a feeling Flynn and the Captain will spend the evening in the Murder Room trying to figure this case out. Three pair of eyes are better than two," said Provenza.

Julio studied the older man. He was right. The case wasn't setting well with any of them. His Captain wasn't going to simply take the week off for Christmas when Anthony Berlusconi was on the cusp of walking free yet again.

"And four are even better than three. Let's grab a quick bite then we'll both head back upstairs," Julio told him with a smile. "We'll even bring back a couple of sandwiches. The Captain tends to skip meals when she's focused on a case."

"Good thinking." Provenza patted the younger man on the back as they headed toward his car. Julio stopped short and pointed toward the edge of the visitors' section of the garage.

"Isn't that Jack Raydor? I thought he left a couple of hours ago after the Captain. What's he still doing hanging around here?"

"And who's he talking to? Seems a little riled up," replied the lieutenant.

They saw him turn and stomp toward his car, his hand tugging at his collar as if to loosen its hold on his neck. The two officers looked at one another and shrugged.

"Yeah, I'm sure. Its' no problem. She mentioned going to Mass tomorrow so she'd be here when you got here on Sunday. I'll pick you guys up while she and Andy are at church and we'll all be here to surprise her by the time they get back."

"Okay, great," said his sister. "There are only about forty-five minutes between my arrival and Ricky's, so that'll give me time to find my bags. We'll meet you at pick up. So, Mom and Andy should be home soon, yeah?"

"Should be, yeah. They were looking forward to a quiet night at home. This case they're on has been brutal. Dinner's in the oven. I was gonna clear out as soon as they get home. I've got like one more thing to buy and they 'd probably appreciate having a night to themselves before we're all packed in here for the next week. I changed the sheets on my bed for you, by the way. They're now pink and girlie," he said with a grin.

"Thank you, Rusty. I do appreciate you giving up your room. I really would have been fine in the living room with Ricky."

"I know, Em, but I wouldn't have. It's fine. We'll probably stay up all night paying games anyway. You'll be wiped out after your flight from New York."

"You're right about that. Okay, I'll call you tomorrow and we'll see you when we land," Emily told him.

"Alright. See you soon."

Andy rubbed his hand through his hair, leaving it in short grey spikes. He then turned to Sharon in frustration.

"What the hell? It's empty."

Sharon looked at the label again and then at the slip of paper in her hand. It was a match. She shook her head and sighed. "Damn it. First our witnesses and now our evidence?" She turned and leaned on the counter lining the wall, her weight on her hands. Hanging her head, she tapped her nails on the surface.

With this latest catastrophe, their case was dissolving before her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she dug her phone out of her back pocket and thumbed through her email.

"What are you looking for?" Andy asked her.

"The original email from the clerk. It had file numbers for cross-reference. Whoever took our evidence on the judge's murder might not have known about the other files on Berlusconi. His jacket's probably bigger than yours." She turned to face him. "Can you check the cabinets for his records? Maybe there's something on one of the indictments that will give us a clue."

"Got it," he called as he turned, his long stride covering the distance to the other side of the room. It took him some time, but he located the files on Berlusconi, and pulled several files on Judge Whitlow for good measure. Together, they wrote down all the additional case file ID's they found and set to work digging through the archives for everything they could find.

They made themselves as comfortable as possible on the cold, hard floor. Each took a box and spread the contents before them. After cursory glances at the physical evidence, they each began a closer examination of the case notes provided. Berlusconi was clearly implicated in each, but he was just as clearly protected. Those charged with crimes at his alleged direction had never turned on him. Not once. While it certainly supported their theory, it did nothing to prove complicity. Packing up the cartons, they returned them to the shelves and turned their attention to the files. Suddenly, they heard the unmistakable sound of gunfire.

Sharon and Andy reached for their weapons out of reflex. Andy then grabbed Sharon's hand and pulled her toward the far end of the wide shelving unit. She grabbed at the stack of files and followed him, both squatting on their haunches. Sharon kept one hand on her weapon and shoved the other in her pocket, fumbling with her phone. Their breaths came quick and shallow, their ears listening intently for any clue as to the situation unfolding around them.

Provenza stood up to stretch and eyed his watch yet again. They should have been back by now. He picked up his phone and touched his partner's name again. Listening for a moment, his arm dropped. The call was still not going through. He thought of calling Rusty, but didn't want to alarm the boy. Just then, his phone vibrated in his hand.

Rusty emerged from his room. He checked his mom's room on the way to the kitchen. Standing at the counter, he debated putting dinner in the refrigerator. Surely something had come up to delay them, but Sharon always called or texted him when that happened. Deciding to just cover his bases, he called his mother, then Flynn. When neither answered, he called the lieutenant.

"Uh, Rusty, what can I do for you?" Provenza asked, keeping his voice steady.

"Hi, Lieutenant. Hope I'm not calling in the middle of something. I was just checking on Sharon. She and Andy were due home for dinner, and neither are answering their phones. I'm guessing you guys caught a case or something," the boy gracelessly stammered.

"Or something, yes. They're out chasing down a lead, but I'll be sure and have one of them get in touch. It may be a long night."

"Okay then. I'll just wait to hear back then. 'Night, Lieutenant."

"'Night, Son."

Provenza sat back in his chair and rubbed his free hand roughly across his stubbled face.

"Ah, Sir," came Julio, "Lieutenant Tao just sent me something his queries turned up. Something you need to see."

The silence in the wake of the initial blast of gunfire was deafening. There was, however, someone in the wing with them. Their voices carried well against the hard surfaces of the spacious building. Unaware they were not alone, the intruders didn't bother guarding their words. Sharon quickly retrieved her phone from her pocket and immediately switched it to silent. She then pulled up her contacts and attempted to call her second in command. When that failed, she quickly tapped out a text, which failed to send. Andy followed her direction, hoping they might get an intermittent signal so the messages would send.

"Damn it! It's not here!" they heard from the entrance. From their hiding place, about half the distance between the entrance and the back wall, they could hear clearly the conversation of at least three distinct voices.

"Where the hell is it?"

"This is where he said it would be."

"Think ol' Jay Ray is setting us up?"

"Dunno, but if we go back empty-handed, the Boss ain't gonna be happy. You've seen what he's like when he ain't happy. After what he had us do down at the docks, you don't think he'll have it done to us too? No way. We gotta find that evidence."

"Alright, alright. You got the numbers Jay Ray gave us? You look over in the file cabinets and I'll hit the stacks."

Sharon's eyes grew wide as she searched Andy's. What had they walked into? Their answer wasn't long in coming. They heard another blast of gunfire, followed by an angry Damn cameras.

"Hey, what are you doing? The Boss said in and out, no mess. You already shot the clerk. Don't go losing it on me!"

"I just took out the cameras," he barked, indicating the camera now hanging, shattered, from its mount high on the wall.

Yet another player sat quivering in his hiding place behind a row of cartons, a handful of paperwork in one hand, a bag of evidence in the other. What was I thinking? Why did I ever get in bed with these people in the first place? Now, he was caught. He would have to see it through.

Slowly, he stood from his hidden spot among rows of boxes, he stuffed the sheaf of papers into the waistband of his trousers, snug against his back. He then jammed the bag into the inside pocket of his jacket. The bag was much too large for the small inner pocket, but he wedged it in good and tight. Then he drew a gun from his side pocket and held it out in front of him with a shaky hand.

The cruiser pulled to a stop under a street lamp wrapped in a festive green garland. Traffic was heavy but flowing, but the building before them appeared deserted.

"Looks like there's no one home," Provenza said without looking at his companion.

"Shutdown, Sir. Only the desk Sargeant and the records clerk, maybe a security guard. Besides, it's late. Even the clerk is gone by now. It's after eleven."

"Tao should be here any minute, along with Sykes. I'll take Tao through the front. You and Amy see if you can manage the back door."

"Yes, Sir. There's Tao now."

Footsteps approached. As they came closer, Andy clasped Sharon's forearm and pulled her around the corner. They perched their weapons on the shelf in front of them, barrels aimed through a small space between cartons. Andy reached his left hand around Sharon's head and drew her close, whispering in her ear, then pressing a quick kiss there, before moving to the shelf opposite her, there to better cover both directions. Suddenly, they heard movement coming from a different direction, along with the telltale cock of a gun. They now had strangers approaching from both flanks. To their left, conversations continued.

"I found it. Jay Ray's numbers match."

"'bout time. I don't like this."

As they set the box down to examine its contents, they were alerted to movement around the corner of the shelves. They grabbed their weapons and stepped into the open area at the end of the rows. There they found the man approaching from the far end. The trio aimed at one another, two angry and ready, one in a blind panic.

"What are you doing here?"

The lone stranger had emerged from his hiding place, his hand shaking violently. He was clearly outside his bailiwick. With a heavy, quivering arm, he redirected his aim toward the duo before him, Berlusconi's goons.

"I'm not going down for this. He said I'd be protected!" he practically shouted.

"It's all under control. Cool down."

Apparently, cooling down was beyond his current ability, panicked as he was. The shaking in his hand was out of control, and before he knew it, he had pulled the trigger. His aim was off by several feet, hitting the corner of the metal shelving and sending sparks flying. Andy let out a shout which was, fortunately, covered by return fire from the other two. He fell to the ground, hands over his eyes.

"Damn it," he cried behind his hands.

Sharon turned and dropped to her knees beside him. Setting her weapon beside her, she placed one hand along his cheek and the other along his arm. Alarmed, she drew her hand away from his bicep, her fingers covered with warm, sticky blood. Andy, however, sat shaking, his eyes covered.

The third of the original trio ran through the shelves to join his partners, drawn away from his file search by the sound of gunfire. He ran along the ends of the aisles, quickly scanning the length of each. Unsure of the cause, or source of the firefight, his gun was raised and ready.

"Hey!" He slid to a stop when he saw them at the far end of the aisle.

Suddenly, there was an explosion of gunfire from every direction, shouting, screaming, and noise like thunder, followed by slamming doors, heavy footsteps, and further orders shouted.

Andy missed her touch instantly. Lowering one arm from his face, he reached for her, blindly, but she was not there. "Sharon!"

Footsteps approached at a run.

"Damn. Hold on, Captain. Help's on the way. Stay with me."

Provenza? Where'd he come from?

"Sharon? What's wrong?!" Again, he reached, unseeing, for his love. Finally, his hand brushed hers. He crawled toward her and held fast to her palm. "Sharon?" he rasped, his throat tightening. "Sharon?"

Could they ever get through a single season without a trip to the hospital? Sitting, yet again, in the uncomfortable chair along the wall of the waiting room, his head between his hands and elbows on his knees, Rusty stared at the floor. Patterns began to form in the speckled tile. When the phone resting in his lap buzzed against his jeans, he sat up just enough to pick it up and read the text from his sister. Floor?

Quickly, he keyed his response, four, and sent it. Not a minute later he heard his name and looked up to find a frantic Emily and Ricky, followed by a very somber Buzz.

"God, Rusty, what happened? Where's Mom? Is she okay?"

Emily knelt in front of him, firing questions at him. Ricky took a seat beside his brother and laid a hand on his shoulder.

"Rusty? Hey, you okay?"

Rusty looked from his sister in front of him to his brother beside him.

"No. No, I don't think so."

The room was still and stale, the smell of antiseptics cloying. The endless beeping of machines his only constant, other than the pain. As he came awake, he felt the throbbing in his left arm. He raised his right, still heavy from the anesthesia in surgery, and touched his face. Well, hell, he thought to himself. Sighing heavily, he reached around for the call button that had to be close by. Experience had taught him that. The movement aggravated the fire burning in his arm, reminding him, not for the first time, why he wished he could have more than minor pain relievers.

"Quit wiggling, Flynn. It's only gonna make it worse," grumbled his partner, who reached for the call button and pressed it into his friend's hand.

"Sharon?" That was all he really wanted to know.

"Lieutenant Flynn, I'm Dr. Fleming. How are you feeling, sir?" The young doctor made his way to the machines to the left of the bed, a nurse behind him.

"Where's Sharon? She was with me and she was hurt. How is she?" He was getting anxious, causing his blood pressure and heart rate to rise and his injuries to throb all the more.

The doctor eyed Provenza, who simply lifted his hands as if in surrender.

"They're together," he said with an exaggerated eyeroll. The doctor nodded knowingly.

"Yes, I'm aware. I've just spoken to her children. They let me know, although it's also in her chart. You are her medical proxy, but you were also unconscious for a while. Sharon, uh Captain Raydor is in recovery, again." He paused at the sight of the patient gripping at his bedding. "She had a tough time in surgery and we had to close her up until she was more stable, which she was within a few hours."

"But what happened?" Andy asked, his frustration mounting.

"Captain Raydor took two bullets to the abdomen, tearing up her liver and small bowel. The bullets exploded on impact, causing a lot of damage."

"Dumdums," Provenza growled.

"I'm afraid so," the doctor agreed. "She's resting now in recovery. She's stable, but guarded. We're keeping a close eye out for infection and sepsis. It's a messy place for a gunshot, but she tolerated the second surgery well. We gave her a transfusion. That helped. If she remains stable for the next few hours, we'll move her. I'm relatively optimistic, Mr. Flynn."

"Okay, thanks," Andy murmured, unsure.

"Now about you."

Provenza leaned forward, his attention on the doctor.

Sharon's children sat together in a waiting room, this one on the second floor. Before them was a half-eaten pizza. Somewhat comforted that their mother was resting well after the successful removal of two bullets and the repair of extensive damage to her abdomen, they had nibbled mindlessly at the meager dinner brought by Buzz. They had been given a rundown of their mother's condition, if not what had caused it in the first place. Provenza only told them that she, along with Flynn, had been investigating their current case when they found themselves in the middle of a firefight, resulting in both of them being shot. Figuring that was all the information they'd get for now; they fell into an uneasy silence.

That was where Provenza found them when he left Andy's room with his daughter on his arm. Nicole dabbed at the moisture under her eyes as she joined them. Taking an empty seat next to Rusty, she reached for his hand and gave it a squeeze.

"How's Andy?" he asked her.

"Frustrated, impatient, more worried about Sharon," she cocked her head to the side. "His arm hurts, but he'll heal. Unfortunately, he can't take much for the pain, or he won't."

"What about his eyes?" Ricky asked her. "The lieutenant said he had a uh, corneal flash burn, or something like that."

"Yes. Dad says it hurts, feels like there's something in his eyes, and it burns. The doctor said it should clear up eventually. It was the flash from a gun barrel, not a nuclear bomb. His words, not mine," she assured them. "Anyway, the nurse said your mom would be moved soon. That made him feel a little better."

"Yeah, they just told us. We're just waiting for a room number," said Emily.

"I'm so glad they're both going to recover," Nicole said, the tears falling anew. "Dad would be lost without your mom."

Emily leaned forward and touched Nicole's hand. "I'm pretty sure she feels the same way about your dad."

When he heard the door to his room open, he turned his face toward the sound.

"Lieutenant Flynn, I've brought you a roommate." If he could have, he'd have rolled his eyes.

"We figured it would be easier on everyone if you were both in the same room," the nurse said as she went about hanging and hooking up various IV's and monitors.

"Sharon? Is she okay?" He reached for the remote to raise the head of the bed.

"She can speak for herself," she mumbled, clearly still under the influence of heavy sedation. The nurse quickly checked Sharon's surgical site and applied a fresh bandage before changing gloves and doing the same with Andy.

He waited until the nurse and orderlies had retreated and stretched his good arm out toward the other bed. As he couldn't see what he was doing, he was careful to keep his fingers light when they found first the edge of the bed, and then her arm.

"Sweetheart, you okay? I'm so glad you're here," his voice husked.

Sharon lay in her bed, eyes closed against the light and the dizziness. When she felt his hand on her, she lifted her own to find it and gave it a weak squeeze.

"Been better," she managed. "You?"

"Peachy. For the record, crappiest date night ever," he groaned.

"Agreed," her voice trailed off as the drugs claimed her again, her hand holding weakly onto his.

Half an hour later, their children found them just that way.

Returning to the waiting room, they made a plan for watching over their respective parents. As Sharon's kids had either travelled all day or sat up all night, they were sent home to sleep. Nicole had to get home to her boys, but promised to be back soon. Detective Sykes would stay until relieved by Provenza, who insisted on only leaving for a few hours.

When next she awoke, the pain in her gut reminded her where she was and why. She took a few shallow breaths to center herself. She noticed first her hands. One was very cold, typical for her. The other, however, was warm. She opened her eyes just enough to see her small hand enfolded in a much larger one. She loved that feeling. Their hands fit together so perfectly.

Following the length of his arm with her gaze, her eyes came to rest on his face. Her eyes grew wide.

He felt her hand shake where it rested in his own. Giving it a gentle squeeze, he asked her,

"Sweetheart, you in pain? You're shaking." There was no reply.

"Sharon, Babe?" He heard her sniff. "Baby, are you okay?"

"Andy? What happened? Your eyes, Andy," she stammered.

"Hey, hey. It's okay, Sweetheart. I'm fine. I took one to the arm, and the flash burned my eyes. They'll be fine. I'm more worried about you. Are you in pain? Do you need your meds?"

"I'm so sorry. We shouldn't have gone out there at all. We should've just gone home like we planned. Now we're both in the hospital and you're hurt, Andy."

"Shh, Sweetheart." He ran his left hand along the railing of his bed until he found the release. With the side rail lowered, he gingerly sat up and swung his legs over the side until they touched the floor.

Carefully, he stood and reached toward her bed and guided himself to her side.

"Andy, no. You'll fall. Get back in bed," she cried.

"Babe, I'm used to stumbling around in the dark every time Provenza wakes me in the middle of the night to run to a crime scene. It's fine."

"My name! I heard it called," announced Provenza as he eased the door open and heard their voices. "Damn it, Flynn! Sit yourself down."

"Hey, Provenza, lower the rail on her bed, will you?" The old lieutenant grumbled as he set his coffee down.

"Only to keep you from falling on your ass, you stubborn old goat."

He reached around the railing and hit the release. Then he guided his friend until he could rest his hip against the mattress.

Andy reached for her again, and Sharon placed her hand in his. He leaned over her gently searching for her lips. As he neared her, she met him for a kiss.

"We're gonna be okay, Babe. Please don't cry. You'll hurt worse and I couldn't stand that."

The lieutenant drug a simple straight-backed chair up next to the bed for his partner to sit in. He wasn't sure he needed to be leaning against the bed with the injury to Sharon's middle.

"Here. Sit before you hurt her."

"He's not hurting me. Other side. But he's right, honey. You should sit before you fall." Provenza chuckled.

"Hear that, Flynn? I'm right. Mark it on your calendar."

Sharon reached for the button near her head that would allow her to change the position of the mattress. She'd barely raised her head when the wounds in her side pulled angrily. It was enough, however, to lift her head just a bit.

"Lieutenant, can you please tell us what happened? The last thing I remember was gunfire, Andy getting hit, then I went down after him. I've a vague recollection of one of the men taking one to the leg, maybe? He grabbed at his leg as he fell. Did I dream that?"

"Not sure, Captain, though it's possible. Two got away in all the confusion, one was treated and moved to the infirmary at County, the fourth died at the scene. Julio and Sykes will be back there in a few hours after they get some sleep. Tao is combing through everything found at the scene. The files and evidence you found, as well as what was recovered after you were taken away. We're on it. Don't worry. Just get better." He looked at his long-time friend and partner and patted him gently on the back. "Both of you."

Though still sniffing and blinking away her remaining tears, Sharon had settled down again. The events of the weekend completely overwhelming to her.

"Thank you, Lieutenant. I appreciate the update as well as showing up at the warehouse when you did. You saved our lives."

A soft knock sounded at the door, and it opened slowly to reveal Nicole. Andy's daughter wasn't sure they would be awake and didn't want to disturb them, but really wanted to see both her dad and Sharon.

"Good morning, Nicole. I'll let you take the next shift. You keep these two in line for me," said the older man.

"Well, I'll give it my best, Lieutenant," she replied with a smile. She approached her father and rested her hands lightly atop his shoulder. She kissed the top of his head in greeting.

"Hi, Daddy. You doing okay? Should you be out of bed?" Andy leaned his head toward her hand.

"I'm okay, kiddo."

Nicole moved around to the far side of the bed and bent low to kiss Sharon's cheek.

"Hi," she said sweetly to the woman she admired so much and had come to dearly love. "How are you, Sharon?"

"I'll be fine, Sweetheart, in time. You look wonderful. How are those sweet boys?" Sharon looked at the younger woman with a brightness that masked her pain and exhaustion.

"Oh, they're great. Still asleep, actually."

Sharon shook her head as if to free the cobwebs.

"I don't even know what day it is or what time? Can you believe that?"

"Well, it's just after six o'clock, Sunday morning. That help?"

"Sunday? Goodness, only one more day before Christmas Eve! Wait a minute!" Her eyes grew wider. "My kids," she began.

"Have arrived safely. They'll be here in a while. They went to the condo for showers and sleep," Nicole told her. "They peeked in on you both before they left, but you were both out."

"Thank you, Nicole. I hate to have ruined Christmas for everyone," Sharon said sadly.

"Oh, you haven't ruined anything, Sharon. You're both alive and you'll recover. The alternative would have ruined Christmas, as well as everything else. As long as you're both okay, that's all that matters." She looked from Sharon to her dad. "Oh, before I forget. Rusty asked me to tell you that you can text him a list of anything you need from the condo, and he'll bring it when he comes this morning."

"Good, good. We'll do that, Nic," her father said, his wheels spinning.

An hour later, the kids arrived, surprised to find Andy alone, dozing in his bed. Nicole saw their confusion and was quick to reassure them.

"Sharon was just taken down for a scan. Routine, they said. Takes about an hour."

Andy stirred from his nap and smiled when he heard Sharon's bunch.

"Hey, guys. Glad you're here. Sorry for the lousy welcome." Emily rounded the bed and bent low to kiss his brow.

"How are you feeling, Andy?"

"I'm fine, Em. How are you, Honey?"

"I'm good, Andy. We're just so sorry this has happened."

"Andy, Ricky and I are here too. We packed you a bag so you guys will have something other than those fancy hospital smocks to wear," grinned Rusty.

"Thanks, boys. Ricky, glad you made it, son."

"Good to be here, Andy. Nicole said you were better this morning. Is there anything we can do to make you guys more comfortable?"

"Well, depending on what they find when they take these off in the morning," he gestured to the bandages covering his eyes, "I'll be out of here before long. The arm isn't sufficient for a lengthy stay. Your mom might be here a few more days, I'm afraid. I have an idea of how we could help her out though. You guys in?"

They shared a look and a smile.

"Definitely," came the reply.

When Sharon was wheeled back into the room, her family was waiting. Exhausted by being out of her bed for the last hour, she nonetheless brightened instantly upon seeing her children. It had been far too long since she'd see her older two, especially Emily, who lived on the east coast.

"Oh, you're here!" she cried. "I'm so glad." She remained in the wheelchair as, one at a time, they bent to gently embrace her. First Ricky, the Emily, and finally Rusty greeted their mother. The nurse then helped Sharon to rise from the chair. Sharon stood still for a moment to gain her balance, then turned toward Andy. She ran her fingers through his silvery hair, standing on end from his time in bed, and rested her palm against her cheek. Bracing herself against his bed, she bent to kiss him.

"Hi there," she spoke softly.

"Hi, yourself," came his reply.

She kissed him again before allowing the nurse to assist her in situating herself in her bed again.

Once she was as comfortable as she was likely to get, she sighed and rested her hands in her lap.

"So, how have you been? Were your flights alright? Tell me everything."

The kids all chattered softly with one another, catching up in a way that their skypes and facetimes didn't allow. All the while, Sharon and Andy lightly dozed, smiles on their faces.

Monday morning came and the doctors removed Andy's bandages. His eyes were indeed healing on schedule. Although still blurry and burning, he could make out large images and colors. The details would follow. Things were looking up for him. For Sharon, however, things were a bit more complicated.

During the night, she had spiked a fever high enough that the night nurse instantly flipped on the overhead light and summoned the doctor on the night shift. Blood was drawn for cultures and new meds were added to her IV before they shut the light off and excused themselves. Sharon was sick enough that most of it eluded her, but Andy was panicked enough to remain awake until the nurse returned with Sharon's test results. Her cultures showed the initial presentation of sepsis. It was a frightening complication, but the doctor believed they had caught it early. Sharon was switched to a different, stronger antibiotic, as it seemed she was resistant to the first.

The actual wound site, however, seems to be healing quite well. That is how Provenza happened to find them sharing a bed when he arrived mid-morning. He was relieved to see the bandages gone from his friend's eyes, as he lay next to Sharon in her bed. The lights were dimmed in deference to his still healing eyes, and Sharon was tucked snuggly into his side. With new and aggressive drugs on board, she was sleeping soundly.

"You look better. How's she? Looks a little flush to me," Provenza said, concerned.

"I'm fine. Eyes are coming along. Sharon spiked a fever of one hundred four in the middle of the night. Infection. They're working on it, but she feels pretty lousy right now. The meds for the infection are hell on her stomach. Fever's come down a little. Not enough." He leaned in close and placed the gentlest of kisses against her brow, grimacing at the heat that lingered there.

"Damn," grunted his partner. "Two steps forward and all."

"Yeah. She's been so excited to have all three of the kids home for Christmas, too. It's her favorite."

"Yes, I'm aware. The decorated Murder Room is a constant reminder." Provenza leaned back against the stiff vinyl and crossed his ankles. "So, Tao came across some intriguing connections in those files left at the scene."

Late afternoon felt like yet another step backwards. Andy sat in the oversized vinyl recliner, dark lenses shielding his sensitive eyes from the sunlight pouring in from the window.

Peering around the door, left ajar by the staff in their hasty retreat, Nicole found her father sitting motionless, save for his hands. Turning them over and over was his tell.

"Dad," she spoke softly, not wanting to startle him, "you okay? What happened?" She quickly covered the space between them and knelt before him. "Where is Sharon?"

Though Andy had told Sharon's kids about the latest frightening development, they had agreed to keep on with their plans. It was just as well. They were an exuberant bunch, and he loved them. Right then, however, he needed the peace, the quiet serenity his daughter carried. After explaining the situation to Rusty, with whom he was closest, he called Nicole and simply asked that she come.

"Hi, baby. Thanks for being here."

Nicole pulled him into a hug and felt a shudder roll through his body. She released him and stepped back to perch on the end of the bed.

"Can you tell me what's wrong?" she asked, not wanting to push him.

The sun was warm against his back as it beamed through the window, creating lacy patterns across the linoleum. Andy leaned back against the ledge, staying out of the way. The soft cotton t shirt and running pants were far more comfortable against his skin than the stiff and itchy smock he'd finally discarded. He looked on through the grey shield stretched across his eyes as Sharon's surgeon and a nurse examined her abdominal region and wound site.

As they turned to look at him, faces clearly set and determined, Andy stood taller, took a step away from the wall, and crossed his arms at his chest.

"So, Doc, what's going on? The fever should be down by now, right?" He was trying his best not to sound as frantic as he felt. He'd sat with her all day, her body baking beside him. She'd slept the entire time.

"It should, yes. Her latest blood test shows her white count is soaring, which is definitely the wrong direction. Her heartrate is faster than I'm comfortable with. Fever's still high, she's flush and, most telling, her abdomen is distended."

Andy rubbed his hand roughly across his forehead as he inched closer to Sharon's side.

"My God," he said to himself, and then to the doctor, "So what do we do now?"

The doctor dropped his arms and clutched a chart in front of him. His face displayed his concern for his patient, but also the confidence of a skilled physician. It inspired calm in his patients and their families.

"Now, unfortunately, we go back in."

After explaining as best he could, he sat back against his chair and sighed.

"They just took her back about an hour ago. I think they expect to find some internal bleeding or something they missed before in all the damage."

He closed his eyes and tried to get comfortable. His arm was throbbing and he hadn't slept well since entering the hospital.

Nicole sensed he was talked out and in need of some peace and quiet. Rising from the bed, she walked to the corner and lifted the plain, straight back chair. Walking towards her father, she set the chair next to his and took her seat. Slipping her phone from her purse, she settled in next to her dad, and keyed a text to update her brother, as well as Sharon's kids. Then, they waited in silence, together.

A couple of hours later, they were joined by the doctor, who explained that Sharon was once again in recovery. They had indeed found a bullet fragment in a cavity created by the trauma to the bowel. After removing it, they cleaned out the infected tissue and carefully checked the area before closing. Assuring them she would be returned to them after some time being closely monitored, he left them to update their family.

Nicole took care of that, sending a group text, which included her brother and Sharon's kids, and a second to her mother who, despite everything, liked Sharon very much.

The kids arrived before their mother was brought back to the room. Rusty had selected a sandwich and soup for Andy, hoping it would tempt him more than the hospital cafeteria's offering. Understanding their mother's diet would be much more restrictive, they brought her only a large glass of iced tea for sipping.

Setting down their offering, they checked on Andy. Emily hugged him carefully before moving toward the window's ledge. Ricky gave him a squeeze to his forearm, not as comfortable with the hugging as his sister, but genuinely concerned for this man who had treated him so well. Rusty, who still lived at home, knew him best. He knelt before him and placed a hand on Andy's, waiting for him to meet his eyes.

"Andy," he said, pausing a beat. "We brought you something to eat." Seeing the older man gearing up to argue, he squeezed his hand gently and continued. "As soon as Mom is back here and resting, you need to eat a little something. Got it?"

Andy looked at the determined faces around him and murmured, "Yeah, okay."

"Impressive," Nicole grinned.

Rusty rolled his eyes and stated, "I've been in charge of his diet before."

A short while later, a nurse appeared. She asked them to step outside long enough to get Sharon back in the room and situated. The kids decided to check out the cafeteria's coffee an found two of their mother's team members at the door."Ah, Raydors," said Provenza as he hoisted himself from his chair. "How are the patients?"

"Andy's okay, Lieutenant," Rusty told him. "They're bringing Mom back now," he said, gesturing toward the approaching gurney.

Provenza stretched out his hand, his fingers just ghosting over his captain's hand as the bed passed him. Her children looked on, touched by the affection the team clearly felt for their mother. Their eyes followed her until the gurney rounded the corner and the door closed.

Ricky stepped forward and extended his hand first to the lieutenant, and then to Julio just behind him.

"We were just headed down to check out the coffee situation while they get her settled again. Can we get you guys some?" he politely offered.

"That would be great, yes. Uh, Detective Sanchez, why don't you go along and update the Captain's family? I'll bring Flynn up to speed."

"Yes, Sir," he said, extending his hand. "I definitely need coffee."

He watched as they retreated down the hall toward the elevators, talking in hushed tones, respectful of their surroundings. Again he sat, waiting until he was permitted to enter.

Andy stood when the orderlies brought Sharon back. He stayed in the corner, out of the way, while they arranged the various lines, monitors and drains attached to her. When they were satisfied, they left only a nurse to check the patient and record her vitals. After she left, Andy finally approached her bedside and bent low to kiss her brow.

When her eyelids fluttered, she caught a glimpse of him and gave him a weak smile, before drifting off again. Such a small thing, but it was the world to him.

Upon entering the room, Provenza found his friend sitting in a chair pulled close to the bed, his hand holding Sharon's. He smiled. Perhaps, he thought, if those two could find this kind of love, there was hope for them all. He patted his friend's shoulder in greeting, then took a seat in the recliner by the window. They needed to talk, but now just didn't seem like the right time.

"What'd the doc say?"

"They think they got it all. Hidden bullet fragment. It happens sometimes, they say. Fever should start coming down. She'll be out for a while." He took a heavy breath. "Your turn."

Provenza huffed. "Two bodies. Worked for Berlusconi. Shot, execution style. Our pal, Esposito did the identification. He's getting spooked, but I think he's ready to take us up on the deal, if only for the protection. We think they were two of our shooters at the warehouse Friday night, given what was found on their persons."

Andy had figured it was all connected, given what they'd overheard that night.

"That still leaves the one that got away. We think he was hit too, by the blood trail."

Andy angled his body just enough to meet his partner's gaze. "And?"

Provenza pursed his lips and sniffed.

"And that leaves just two witnesses to what went down there."

Andy returned his gaze to Sharon and nodded. "Me and Sharon."

Both men sat quietly, allowing the latest development to soak in. Provenza then leaned forward, elbows against his knees and his ever-present bucket hat in his hands.

"It's all taken care of. You know how the mob characters are, so don't argue with me. There's a guard on you and the Captain 'til we see this thing through."

"What about our kids? These guys have a habit of targeting families to keep their witnesses quiet. Now, I've no intention of keeping quiet but I don't want these guys anywhere near our kids."

"Which is why they're already covered. Julio is downstairs with them now. He's explaining the plan. It's covered. Just trust me to handle it, please. You worry about getting yourselves well."

Andy ran his fingers through his hair, and not for the first time, as evidenced by the silver spikes sticking out in all directions. His partner decided to try a little guilt.

"You do trust me, don't you?"

From her place on the bed, Sharon who'd awakened and been listening, pressed her lips into a smirk and softly muttered "Yes, lieutenant. We do."

Both men quickly stood and moved closer to her, surprised at her voice.

"Hey, Babe. There you are. How are you feeling?" Andy bent low to press a kiss to her brow, then pulled back and cupped her face in his palm.

"Like I've slept a week and could sleep another. I feel better and worse at the same time. What happened?" Her voice was low and gravelly, from both her medication and the intubation from three surgeries. When she reached for Andy, he gently lowered himself onto the edge of her bed, mindful of her wounds and all the various wires and tubes snaking out from beneath her blanket.

"You spiked a fever and were showing other signs of sepsis, so they opened you up again and managed to find a bullet fragment hidden in there really good. Everything is looking better now, and your fever is down." He gave it to her straight. She did better with all the facts.

"That explains feeling better and worse, I guess." Turning to face her second in command she said,

"Your turn. Who's covering the kids? What's the latest?" Spoken in a soft, but determined voice, her eyes still closed, her meds starting to pull her under again. Provenza reached for her hand and gave it a squeeze.

"Captain, Sanchez and Sykes are coordinating security for your family, and Tao has a team combing through everything we've got. It's taken care of, on all fronts. Now please, rest. Your team's got this." He paused until he felt her weak squeeze of his hand in answer. Then he returned to his seat and took out his crossword puzzle.

Ricky looked over his shoulder at the man who followed them back to their mother's room.

"Well, this is different," he muttered.

"Just pretend he's not there," replied Rusty. He was not pleased in the least to be under guard yet again, but he had no intention of making things even worse for Sharon than they already were. He'd matured a lot since the last time and was determined to keep his displeasure to himself.

Ricky and Emily shared a look, then turned toward Nicole and shrugged. They approached the door to the room and Emily gave a soft knock in case the occupants were sleeping. At Andy's soft summons, the group quietly entered the room and quickly gravitated toward Sharon's side. Nicole reached to hug her father.

"How is she?" she asked him.

"Better, I think. She was awake for a minute or two then she was out again. Nurse said that would probably happen."

Andy then addressed Sharon's children.

"How are you guys? Julio told you guys what's up?" They all nodded and shrugged, not fully understanding but accepting. "I'm sorry to make your holiday even worse."

"It can't be helped, Andy. Whatever you need, whatever we can do, we'll do it. Okay?" Rusty looked at the people who'd become his parents and gave a nod. His siblings, less certain, followed his lead and nodded at Andy as well.

"Thank you, guys. Really. I know this, well, it sucks. I'm sure there's a lot of moving parts, stuff you don't understand, but knowing you guys are safe..." he paused. "Well, that's really all we care about." His gaze passed over each of them. "And," he continued in a hushed voice, "the plan is a go. As long as we keep it low key, your mom will love it when she wakes up." Again, the kids looked at each other. This time they smiled.

As evening fell, Sharon had again awakened for a brief while. Andy took his place in the hard, uncomfortable chair, sitting at her side. They talked about her latest surgery, the details assigned to them and their collective children, her gloom at the loss of her family Christmas, and her great relief at Andy's healing eyes.

He could rarely refuse her any request, but would not crawl in bed next to her when she asked, not so soon after surgery. Instead, he bent over her where she laid, and rested his head across her legs, just below her stomach, his good arm thrown around her.

She reached forward and ran her fingers through his hair, instantly relaxing them both, until they drifted off to sleep. He would return to his own bed eventually, but for now, this was exactly where he wanted to be.

Christmas Eve found them much the same, confined to beds in a hospital. After a breakfast of dull and tasteless for Andy, and weak coffee for Sharon, they had a visit from the surgeon. He told them he was pleased with Sharon's progress and would, depending on her scan that morning, likely allow her soft food for lunch. Upon hearing that, Andy set a quick text to Rusty to update him and to check on them all.

While Sharon was gone for her tests, the kids arrived and got to work.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Just over an hour later, Sharon was returned to a transformed room. Rather exhausted from her trip to radiology, her eyes remained closed and her head rested in her hand. When she was greeted with a soft, but energetic chorus of "Merry Christmas," her eyes opened and a surprised oh ghosted her lips.

After briefly stepping into the hall while the nurse helped Sharon to clean up, change, and get situated in a freshly made bed, they rejoined their parents to enjoy a holiday movie on Ricky's large tablet. Less than half an hour in, both Sharon and Andy were asleep.

Upon awaking, they enjoyed a pared down dinner of holiday favorites, including a red and green wreath-shaped jello mold especially for Sharon. It was about all she could currently have, and it gave her a laugh. It was like music. As a special treat for his mom, Ricky pulled up a livestream of St. Joe's Christmas Eve mass. Tears pooled in her eyes at missing midnight mass at her church, and at Ricky's thoughtfulness. She extended her hand toward Andy, silently beckoning him to join her. This time, he didn't refuse her.

Ricky and Emily crawled into Andy's vacated bed and Rusty stretched out on the vinyl sofa. They watched the service together and this time, only Sharon made it through the program. As the service ended, her heavy eyes scanned the faces of her dear ones before allowing them to close.

Strains of "Joy to the World" ringing through the hospital's intercom the next morning rustled them from their sleep. They stretched away the stiffness from a night in confined, unfamiliar quarters. Despite sharing Sharon's small bed, she and Andy rested better than they had since landing in the hospital.

After helping Sharon to the small bathroom to freshen up, Andy turned to the kids, clapped his hands together, and told them "Merry Christmas." With sleepy grins and a disheveled appearance, they returned his greeting and got ready for the day.

When the bathroom door opened and Sharon shuffled out, Andy wrapped an arm around her and led her to the recliner in the corner. When she was settled, with her IV protected and a blanket draped across her lap, Christmas began in earnest.

There were gifts situated around the miniature tree on the window ledge, just a fraction of those still under the tree at home. While the kids made a quick trip to the cafeteria, the nurse brought breakfast trays to the room. While Andy was given a traditional tray, Sharon was still limited. However, she was upgraded to eggs and applesauce. A Christmas miracle, she had joked.

When the kids rejoined them, they gave their parents a gift each. Sharon and Andy opened matching boxes, revealing soft, cotton pajamas. They smiled and indicated they would be changing into them the first chance they got. The rest would wait until later in the day.

Ricky managed to find a holiday movie marathon on the television and they settled in to watch "White Christmas."

Later in the afternoon, they were joined by Nicole and her family along with her brother Nate. Sharon's kids excused themselves so as not to crowd the room, and headed toward the cafeteria.

"Grandpa Andy!" cried his grandsons. They hugged both Andy and Sharon, as did Nicole and Nate. Making themselves comfortable, they filled each other in on their morning. The boys were bouncing with excitement as the told them of everything Santa had brought them.

"There are things at our place for all of you as well," Sharon told them.

"We can have Christmas with you both when you're home and feeling better," said Nicole.

Sharon nodded, "Sounds lovely."

When it was time to wrap up their visit, the boys gave careful hugs to their grandfather and to Sharon. While their father, Dean, helped them into their coats, Nicole hugged her dad. As she kissed him on the cheek, she whispered in his ear, "Text me later." She then turned to Sharon and placed a kiss to her cheek as well. "Merry Christmas, Sharon. I'm so glad you're better."

Nate, then Dean, followed behind her, hugs, kisses, and handshakes all around. When they made their exit, security right behind them, Sharon's kids returned, long enough to say their goodbyes. They had plans, and their parents needed rest.

As evening fell, the room was finally, blissfully quiet. Andy managed to find a station on the television playing classic carols, accompanied by Currier and Ives-inspired winter images. Now, they were alone and dressed in their new sleepwear, courtesy of the kids. Andy knocked on the bathroom door to check on Sharon.

"You done, babe? Need help?"

The door opened. Sharon smiled at him as she reached up to turn off the light, and stepped close to him.

"These are much better than the others, softer too." She looked around, noting the lights were off, and smiled at the festive lights of the tiny tree.

"Merry Christmas, Sweetheart," he said softly.

"Merry Christmas, Andy."

"Are you up for a dance?" he asked hopefully.

"I think so, yes."

He opened his arm wide in invitation, and she eagerly stepped in. Pulling her in close he said to her

"If you get too tired, tell me."

She hummed in response.

When the song ended, he took a single step back so that he could see her face. "You good?" When she nodded, he smiled, reaching into his pocket. When he withdrew a small box and held it before her, her eyes began to water and she nervously bit her lower lip. "Andy?"

He looked at her and smiled.

"I know this has been a lousy way to spend Christmas so far. I'm hoping to regain a little of the magic. You know, I can handle the hospital, the crappy food, even getting shot. The only thing I cannot handle is the thought of ever being without you. So far, everything about the last few days has gone wrong, but standing here with you, by the sorriest little tree ever, I'm happier than I've ever been. I want that every day." He paused. "The happy part, not the hospital and gunshots."

She laughed with him through her tears. "I want that too. The happy part," she specified and laughed again.

"Then, and pardon me for not dropping to one knee. I probably couldn't get up right now," he grinned crookedly. "Sharon, Sweetheart, I love you more than anything. You make everything in my life better. I want nothing more than to do the same for you, if you'll have me. Will you marry me, Sharon?" His teary eyes matched her own.

She sniffed and blinked away the moisture pooling in her eyes, then traced the length of his face with her fingertips. Taking a shuddering breath, she said "I will." She stepped close to him, his arms enfolding her. "I will," she repeated.

He released her enough to open the box and show her the ring, a cushion-cut stone surrounded by smaller diamonds. Tiny sparkling stones cascaded down the sides. The center stone was large, but not gaudy, and was tucked deep into the setting.

Sharon's eyes grew wide.

"Andy, it's stunning. Honey, this is too much. It must have cost a fortune."

"On the contrary, it's pretty priceless. The setting is new, but the stones came from my mother's and grandmother's rings. Something old and new. I liked the idea."

She studied it again as the tears fell anew. "I like it too. It's breathtaking."

"Well then, it fits. You take my breath away. Love you," he said, pulling her close again and swaying to the music.

"Love you, Andy."

After another couple of songs, they snuggled into her bed. Andy keyed a text to the kids. She said yes.

When their response came, a short video of all five kids plus the grandkids wishing them a "Congratulations! Merry Christmas!" they snuggled closer, exchanging sweet kisses, until they drifted off to sleep.

Two days after Christmas, they arrived home from the hospital. Sharon still had substantial healing ahead of her and Andy was already on the mend. The condo was curiously empty, but the tree was alive with twinkling lights and colorful decorations and there were, of course, angels everywhere.

Sharon took a seat on the sofa while Andy sat their bag behind it. He then took their meds into the kitchen where he found a note affixed by a magnet to the refrigerator.

"'Welcome home,'" he read aloud. "'Enjoy your afternoon. Christmas Part Deux commences at 6pm. See you then. Love Ricky, Em, Rusty, Nic and Nate.'" He reached over and placed his hands on her shoulders from behind and kissed the top of her head before dropping the note in her lap.

"Feel like a nap?" he asked, already tired from all that went into getting them both home from the hospital.

She looked up at him, eyes just as exhausted as his and replied "Shower first?"

He extended his hand in offering. She stood and accepted his hand, rounding the sofa to join him. Grabbing their bag, he led her into the bathroom.

After a shower filled with more than a few laughs and groans, as they did their best to wash away the antiseptic odors of the hospital while navigating the trail of scrapes and incisions mapping their battered bodies, they crawled into fresh linens, courtesy of their kids, and quickly slipped into sleep.

Waking a few hours later, stiff but refreshed, they dressed in soft, loose loungewear and made for the living room, eager to sit and gaze at the tree. It was a bit of peace they both enjoyed but had thus far been denied due to the events of the past few days.

Entering the room, however, they found their children and grandchildren doing just that. Scattered about the room on the furniture as well as the floor, all eyes were on the tree while soft, instrumental carols played in the background.

"Oh, hey" call Ricky. "Join us!"

Andy led Sharon around to the couch where they took their seat and marveled at the tree.

A short time later, Ricky piped up.

"Well, it's been fun, but I'm famished," he said.

"When are you not?" asked his sister. "Keep your seats," she added to her mother and Andy. "We've got it. We'll call you when everything's ready."

It was a holiday spread indeed, with turkey and trimmings. There were extra vegetables for Andy, and an entire meal of soft foods for Sharon. She laughed at the plate of offerings, impressed with the variety of things they'd created from her very limited list of approved foods. The time they'd taken to be sure she could enjoy something was very thoughtful, though not surprising.

Following dinner, more gifts were exchanged, toys and puzzles for the little kids, clothes and gadgets for the big ones. Sharon and Andy were given a pair of tickets to the ballet and to a Dodgers game, thereby covering both of their interests. Also, as a gift from them all, a framed photo of all five kids- his and hers. It was a candid shot, taken at one of the boys' t-ball games. Sitting in the stands, they huddled together for a casual selfie. Though early in their relationship as future step-siblings, they'd seen the writing on the wall. Plus, they knew their parents would love it. And they did.

Sharon's ring received plenty of admiration, especially from the girls. The boys were pleased. Rusty, who'd snuck it into the hospital to surprise Sharon, had already seen it.

"We sat here all evening, waiting for Dad's text," Nicole said.

Sharon gave her a curious look.

"You were here? Together?"

"Well, we decided to spend as much of Christmas Eve together as possible. Plus, we wanted to know how the proposal went," she giggled.

"You knew already?" Sharon eyed them all, then Andy. "They knew before I did?" she teased.

"Actually," Ricky explained, "We knew because Andy here," clasping him on the back, "got all five of us together via Skype and asked for our blessing. Quite a guy you picked, Mom. I think we'll keep him."

Sharon looked at her fiancé with a wide, tear-filled eyes and nodded. "Yes, I agree."

"Aw man, she's crying again," teased Rusty. "Always with the tears!"

"It's Christmas, Rusty. Plus, she got both shot and engaged over a single weekend. She's emotional. There will be tears, little brother," joked his sister.

"Oh, stop it, you all. They're happy tears, I assure you and yes, I'm probably a little overwhelmed," she admitted. She turned to Andy, framing his face with her hands, and said to him,

"Thank you. You make me so happy, every single day." Kissing him, she grinned at him again before turning and settling her back against his chest.

Andy dug into his pocket and then stretched his arms over her head suspending a delicate chain in front of her. Bringing his hands back toward him, he fastened the clasp at her neck.

"Merry Christmas, Sweetheart," he whispered.

She looked down and gazed at the pendant, a single emerald suspended from a gleaming gold chain. "Oh, Andy. It's beautiful." She turned to face him again.

"You already gave me my lovely ring. You didn't have to..." she began.

"That wasn't a Christmas gift, Sweetheart. That was an engagement," he corrected her. "I hope you like it. It matches your eyes," he said tenderly.

"Oh man," Ricky said to Dean. "He's really got it bad."

Emily elbowed her brother.

"Pay attention, Ricky. Maybe learn a thing or two!"

"Hey!" Ricky looked at his sister, his hand over his heart, feigning scandal.

The rest of them laughed together before settling into playful conversation.

By the end of the evening with the condo once again quiet, Andy reclined against the end of the sofa, Sharon resting between his legs snug against his chest. Together, they gazed at the bright tree against the darkened room, carols softly playing.

"So, beautiful," she said of her view.

Andy gazed at her, his chin on her shoulder. "Certainly is," he said of his.

A soft knock on the door greeted them Saturday morning. Having decided to give them a chance to settle in at home, Provenza arrived in time for brunch with Andy and the captain.

Opening the door, Andy greeted him with their particular brand of nonchalance and gestured for him to enter.

"Enjoy your Christmas, old man?" he asked his friend. "Which ex-wife drew the short straw this year?" he joked, a warm smile to temper his teasing.

The lieutenant made his way into the condo, depositing his jacket and bucket hat on the stand near the door, then heading toward the kitchen. He set a large, festively decorated gift bag atop the table, then turned to offer Andy his hand.

"Merry Christmas, Andy. Glad you're both on the mend. Really."

Andy accepted his hand and smiled. They didn't usually do serious well.

"Thanks, Pal. Appreciate it. Did you enjoy your Christmas?" asked Andy.

"Ex-wives, kids, grandkids," he moaned in exaggerated complaint before offering a small grin. "Yeah, I did. You?"

"Oh yeah. Despite the whole hospital thing, it's been okay. We had the family over last night. It was nice. Then Sharon's kids went and spent the night at Nic's. Seems I'm not the only one who can't say no to her boys. Coffee?" he asked, pouring cups of hot, steaming brew.

"Definitely. How's the Captain?"

"The Captain in fine, thank you, Lieutenant," said Sharon as she moved slowly, yet still gracefully, through the condo. "And it's Sharon. It's Christmas time!" She placed a kiss to his cheek before sauntering to the kitchen where she gave Andy one as well.

He handed her a mug and another kiss in greeting. "Good morning," he murmured in her ear, a low hum her only reply.

Seeing as it was Christmas time, Provenza chose to ignore them and set his coffee on the table. Taking his seat, he dug into the bag and pulled out three gifts, placing them on the table and the empty bag beneath.

"Oh my, lieutenant. What have you brought us?" Sharon gave Andy a curious smile and joined Provenza at the table. After setting their meal before them, he took his seat as well.

"Well, as you said, it is Christmas time," he told her, trying not to make a big deal. "I brought gifts, of course."

He and Andy had long exchanged simple presents during the holidays. This time, almost as if acknowledging his friend was a part of something bigger than himself, he included Sharon and Rusty.

"How lovely, thank you." She slipped from her chair and walked to the tree standing proudly in the corner. From underneath, she drew a mid-sized square box and brought it back to the table.

"Shall we eat while it's hot?" she asked.

"I think we'd better. Not sure how good it will be cold," replied Andy.

"What do we have?" the lieutenant said as he rubbed his hands together, eager to load up his plate.

"We have a casserole with eggs, potatoes, and cheese. The bacon is all yours. I don't eat it and Sharon can't have it. Then there are cinnamon apples, which she can. Plus, plenty of juice and coffee," he said smiling.

"Looks wonderful, honey. Thank you," Sharon said as she reached out and gently squeezed his hand.

Provenza, not surprisingly, piled his plate high. Sampling every offering, his eyes grew wide and he exclaimed, "This is fantastic, Flynn. You never cooked like this for me. All I ever get is burgers and dogs!"

Andy and Sharon grinned at each other before the former eyed his partner and explained.

"She's got better legs."

Sharon rolled her eyes and swatted him playfully with her napkin.

After enjoying their breakfast and coffee, the trio made their way to the living room to continue their visit and exchange gifts.

The lieutenant was over the moon to receive a baseball signed by more than two dozen of the 1958 L.A. Dodgers. He couldn't take his eyes off of it, as he imagined where he would place it among his vast, much- treasured Dodgers collection. Obviously thinking along the same lines, he had presented his partner with an official Dodgers jacket and, much to her surprise, a jersey for Sharon. Provenza told her she may as well look the part. He also tucked a gift, a book chronicling journalists who had blown their cases wide open, for Rusty. It was all very thoughtful and a wonderful way to wind up their extended Christmas.

Eventually, however, talk turned to the Berlusconi nightmare. While Provenza had taken point after his captain and Flynn joined the lists of both victims and witnesses, it was time to bring them up to speed. The ever-present security details covering them and their children were enough to remind them of the ongoing threat.

The lieutenant leaned forward in the large orange chair and set a file folder on the coffee table. Lifting the cover, he fanned the various photos and pages across the dark walnut surface.

"Body count is up to seven, not counting our victim, Judge Whitlow. Still one missing gunman, the one who left his blood at the scene. Then the two of you, of course," Provenza sighed.

"Mr. Berlusconi and his crew have been busy," Sharon mused with a rueful smile.

Andy ran his fingers through his hair in frustration, then draped his arm around Sharon where she sat beside him on the sofa.

"Man, I hate mob crap. The bosses are always protected by layer upon layer of legalese and lapdogs. Believe me, the guy that got away is in the wind, too," Andy fumed.

Sharon shifted on the sofa, changing her position to better address both her lieutenants. Worrying her lip with her teeth, she looked at neither man, her thoughts drifting.

"What I find rather curious is the timing of it all. The evidence collected has been at Hollenbeck the whole time. We only decided to run out there on Friday because the case was falling apart and we didn't want to wait the holiday for the files to be transferred. I confirmed they were there. I called the evidence clerk an hour before we left."

She returned her gaze to the two men seated with her. "But by the time we arrive, the evidence is gone and there's a team there to not only grab the file, but who's informed enough to know how to search the cartons?"

"Yeah. They had the actual case ID's. And who is this 'Jay Ray' character they kept talking about? They said 'Jay Ray's numbers match' or something. Who would have access to the numbers?" Andy asked them.

"Someone on the inside?" his partner suggested. "Dirty cop?"

"Gosh, I hope not," sighed their captain.

"Thought those were your specialty," Andy said with a playful wink, which earned him an equally playful elbow and eyeroll. When she reached across her face to tuck a stray lock of hair behind her ear, Provenza caught the sparkle of her ring.

"On a brighter note, may I say congratulations, Captain? Flynn texted me with the good news. I'm happy for both of you." And he was, despite the snide idiots and exaggerated eyerolls at their expense. His friend had never looked happier and the Captain, well he held her in greater affection than he'd ever imagined when she first took command.

"Thank you, lieutenant. We're very happy," she nodded and reached up to cup her fiancé's cheek. Eyeing him with such love, she whispered "So very happy."

Provenza looked at partner, raised his cup and said "Looks like the right one indeed," before sipping his coffee. Whether he referred to the ring or the lady, well, it didn't matter.

Suddenly, she had an idea, one to further redeem the holiday.

"Would you like to join us on New Year's Eve, Lieutenant? Neither of us is up to going out and I would imagine our kids all have plans." She looked from one man to the other. "Maybe the team could join us. You can see lots of fireworks from the roof."

"Hey, that's a great idea," said Andy. "You in, Provenza?"

He was in, relieved even. Since his partner had been with the Captain, their time at dinners and games had understandably declined. Though very pleased by the idea of being together, he masked his enthusiasm and gave them a simple "Oh, I guess so."

Sharon gave Andy a look of understanding. They knew their friend. He was pleased to be asked.

"Uh, getting back to the case," he stammered awkwardly, "Tao is focusing on any and all persons privy to those files- clerks, attorneys, legal assistants, and he's double checking everyone in the chain of custody. Tao is thorough. If there's something to be found,"

"He'll find it. I agree. Thank you, Lieutenant. I hope all this hasn't taken up too much of your vacation," she said.

"It was this or the ex-wives. It's no hardship, Captain. We look after our own."

Even now, after all their time together, the cases, the people they'd helped as a team, she was still surprised each time they claimed her. Every time they reminded her she was family.

A warmth spread through her, a light pink blush on her cheeks. Softly, she nodded and managed only a "Thank you."

The old lieutenant slowly hefted himself from the chair. Giving a stretch, he started toward the door.

"Well, I'll leave you to it. You can keep the file. The originals are at the office with Tao. Try to get some rest before your brood gets back. I'll be in touch. He retrieved his coat and hat, along with his prized baseball. "And thank you both. This is really great."

He shook his partner's hand, and placed a shy kiss to his captain's cheek, the left them alone.

"Alone again," Andy said, wrapping his arms loosely arounder her waist. She rested her forehead against his chest and sighed.

"I have waited weeks for my kids to arrive and now I feel like I've hardly seen them. I've slept through their visit."

"Well, you've been largely unconscious, Babe. Hardly your fault."

"I'm very glad they've be spending so much time with your kids though. That's turned out far better than I'd hoped," she smiled.

"It has. They're good kids, all of them. They had good moms."

She gave him a sad smile and touched his face with her fingertips.

"You're a good man, Andy Flynn, and a good dad. Took a lot of work, but you got here. Don't forget that."

He studied her face, only truth in her eyes. Hard to believe, he thought.

"I'll try. I'm still not sure I'll ever deserve the faith you have in me, but I'll never stop trying," he told her.

"Oh, honey, don't you see? It's because you try so hard that I have that faith," she said, stretching up on tiptoe to press a chaste kiss to his lips.

"Then you're not just a glutton for punishment?" he asked, only half joking.

She huffed a wry laugh and rolled her eyes. "Well, not anymore."

He kissed her back, this time not so chastely. "How 'bout a movie? I'll even watch a sappy one since you sat through "Die Hard" with me and the kids.

Tightening her arms around him, she said, "You've got a deal. I can't promise I won't fall asleep cuddled up next to you under a warm blanket."

"Even better," he said with a kiss to her forehead. "Accidental naps are the best naps."

He led her to the sofa and draped her with a blanket. After starting a movie, he joined her. For a nap.

New Year's Eve dawned cool and clear. Sunlight reached its fingers into the condo and bathed the room in an ethereal glow. Ricky and Rusty were sprawled out in sleeping bags, still in the clutches of deep sleep.

Andy and Sharon worked side by side in the kitchen preparing breakfast for all. Andy was busy working a skillet full of eggs, while Sharon perched on a stool, slicing fruit. The aromas of bacon, peppers, cinnamon, and coffee filled the air. Andy heard his fiancée's stomach groan and chuckled.

"This is ready. Want to set the table? I'll get everything else."

She set to work arranging plates and cutlery while Andy brought breakfast to the table. By the time everything was ready to serve, the kids had joined them. They enjoyed a lazy, pleasant meal, catching up on the antics of Nicole's boys and letting them know of their plans to visit with their father that evening. The news pleased their mother, who so wished a good relationship for them. She silently hoped they wouldn't be disappointed yet again.

Deciding on a quiet day of preparing for party guests, they set about cooking for their get together and putting away sleeping bags before settling in for an afternoon of movies and the simple joy of togetherness. Sharon had insisted on keeping their security teams fed, especially since they were working over the holiday, so they rotated in for a late lunch with the family.

That evening, Ricky and Emily set off for dinner with their father and Rusty left to meet friends. Sharon emerged from the bedroom, having enjoyed a late afternoon nap. She was still healing and between her surgeries and her prescriptions, she was still rebuilding her stamina.

Despite all of it, Andy found her stunning in a pair of black jeans, hanging a little loosely on her slender frame, and a striking sweater of royal blue angora- a Christmas gift from her fiancé.

"Wow, Sweetheart. You look lovely," he said, opening his arms wide in invitation. She stepped into his embrace and in her low-heeled boots, she fit perfectly under his chin.

"Why, thank you. I thought I'd make the effort. They say it helps you feel better. You clean up nicely yourself."

He did indeed, in a pair of jeans which accentuated his backside, to Sharon's delight, and a dark button down of green and blue plaid. Digging his phone from his pocket, he extended his arm.

"Here. Let's take a pic for Nicole. She's always taking pictures of us. Thinks we're so cute. Smile," he said, aiming the camera. Before he snapped the photo, he turned to sneak a kiss to her cheek. She giggled and turned to kiss him through her smile. Having held his thumb on the button, several pictures were taken. Looking through them, they chose their favorites and sent them to the kids' group text with the message Happy New Year!

They then set about their final preparations before their guests arrived.

The party was a hit, with the Taos, Provenza, Julio and Andrea Hobbs joining them, while Amy and Buzz each already had plans. It was a light-hearted evening, with little talk of criminals and court cases. They enjoyed dinner and wine, cake and coffee, and the relaxed ease of conversation with close friends with share experiences.

Together, they made their way up to the roof to enjoy the firework display. There were others, residents of the building, but more than enough room. Provenza and Julio took a seat near the edge of the pool, drinks in hand. Andrea stood nearby, sipping her champagne. Tao stood back from the group, arms wrapped around his wife, Cathy.

Sharon and Andy remained far from the others, paying little attention to the lights above. Their eyes, as well as their hands and their lips, were focused only on each other.

"You were right," he whispered to her. "Plenty of fireworks up here."

You're Under Arrest

January second arrived. They were technically still on vacation. Unofficially, most of the team had worked most of the week anyway. With the Berlusconi trial approaching and their witnesses evaporating, time was of the essence.

Sharon was enjoying breakfast with her children before having her team over to talk strategy.

"So, dinner with your dad went well?" she asked, hope in her eyes.

"It was okay. It wasn't exactly dinner. He had company when we got there. He didn't seem interested in introducing us," said Emily.

"He didn't seem interested in feeding us either," added Ricky. "He made such a big deal about cooking for us, but then there was nothing. So, we went out, and let me tell you it is slim pickings on New Year's Eve when you don't have reservations."

Sharon wanted to shake her head. Actually, she wanted to shake Jack's.

"But you found something? You enjoyed dinner?"

"Yes, he let us pick," sneered her daughter.

"Which is fitting, since we also paid," added her son.

Andy stood at the kitchen counter, gripping his coffee cup. He turned to face the wall, let his face give away his frustration.

"It was fine. At least he was there, and he was sober. He seemed very worried about you. Like, really bothered about it. Angry even. Wanted us to keep him updated," Emily told her.

"Strange, though. It's usually the other way around. Always wanting to talk to you himself, but he absolutely did not want to call and check on you. Kind of backwards. Oh well, that's Jack for you," said Ricky, with a shake of his head.

Emily playfully swatted his arm. "Don't you mean 'Jay Ray?'" she laughed. "That was different," she said rolling her eyes.

Suddenly, Sharon sat forward in her seat just as Andy spun around in the kitchen. They looked at each other, eyes wide and mouths dry.

"Say that again," Sharon said to her daughter, laying her hand across Emily's arm.

The team was gathered around Sharon's large dining table, on top of which were a vast assortment of files, photos, printed emails and more. Sharon had just shared with them the not so little tidbit she'd accidentally learned from her children earlier. She had not told them the reason behind her interest or the potential importance of the information.

"Well, Captain, that might explain a few things," Tao began. "Jack's name is listed as part of Berlusconi's legal team. You know those types show up in court with an entire army. He hasn't actually appeared in any of the court proceedings to date, but he is on the list and on a number of court documents from legal filings to depositions. He's tied in."

Andy stood behind Sharon; his hands stuffed in his pockets. It was a fine line. He did not like Jack Raydor, at all. However, he was Emily's and Ricky's father. If he was in his mess, those kids would be devastated. He didn't want that for them, or for Sharon.

"The kids said Jack had company when they arrived at his apartment for dinner. Also, he didn't introduce them and was anxious to get them out quickly. And," he drew out, "they called him 'Jay Ray,' as in J. Raydor. Nothing more was said and soon after, they left for dinner. Plus, he was very upset about Sharon being hurt but didn't call or visit, which is odd," Andy told them, reaching for his coffee.

"Yes," agreed Sharon. "Jack would use any excuse to pop in and check on me, when he's around anyway. He hasn't said a thing about our engagement, which is shocking, frankly. That's the kind of news that usually elicits his usual brand of concern." She gave them all a wry smile, and reached for Andy's coffee.

"And don't forget we saw him hanging around the parking garage the day of the shooting, Sir," Julio reminded Provenza. "Remember? When we left for dinner?"

"What?" Sharon asked. This was the first she'd heard of it.

"We couldn't see who he was talking to, ma'am. Someone in a car, which quickly left the garage. We thought it was strange he was still in the building since it had been at least a few hours since he visited you in the Murder Room.

"Well, Jack Raydor's always been a little strange," said Provenza. He then looked at his captain and muttered a "Sorry, Captain."

Behind Sharon, Andy raised his coffee cup in a mock toast to his partner, glad he had said what Andy was thinking.

Julio looked at his boss with regret.

"It's possible, ma'am, that he knew you and the lieutenant were headed to Hollenbeck and tipped someone off before you could arrive and collect the evidence. The timing makes sense," he quietly suggested.

Andy shook his head, anger taking root.

"Jack's capable of a lot, but he wouldn't let anybody hurt Sharon, not physically," he said, trying to convince himself.

Sharon reached up and covered his hand where it rested on her shoulder. She appreciated his words and what it cost him to say them.

"I don't imagine he foresaw that consequence. Jack's never been one to look too far enough ahead to see the possible outcomes of his actions. I can definitely see him getting in too far over his head though, and then making equally bad decisions in an effort to save his own hide," she said sadly.

"How would you like us to handle it, Captain? Bring him in? Follow him? Tap his phones?" Provenza asked her and leaned forward in his seat.

She turned and looked up at Andy, who returned her gaze and simply shrugged his shoulders to indicate it was entirely up to her. When she turned around, once again facing her team, she said, "I have an idea."

"I don't like this plan of yours, Sharon. I've gotta tell you. I don't like it one bit," Andy said as he watched Buzz working his techno-magic around the living room.

"I know you don't, honey, but I'm afraid if we simply call him in to answer our questions, Jack will be in the wind. I hate to think he's in the thick of it, but if he is, we need to know what he knows. Inviting him to dinner here with just our kids? Well, I knew he couldn't resist that." She placed her hands against his chest. Buzz respectfully turned away. "You'll be in the next room. Buzz is wiring the condo. The team will be listening in and standing by. The guard will be away from the door just long enough for Jack to enter the condo. It'll be fine. The part that bothers me the most is misleading everyone. Using the kids to get their dad here, then sending them out to keep them from actually being here."

Andy kissed her forehead.

"Like you said, it's the only way. There's no point involving the kids if his involvement is minimal. There's no point disappointing them if it can be avoided," he said.

"Thank you for looking out for them," she said.

The clearing of a throat reminded them they were not alone.

"Uh, ma'am, you're all set here. The dining area and the living room are wired. The team will hear everything from the car downstairs," Buzz informed her.

"Thank you, Buzz. I appreciate everything," she told him.

"I'd better get going if I'm going to meet your family at the theatre. Good luck," he said and excused himself.

Later, Andy received a text from his partner letting him know that Jack Raydor had entered the building. Andy let the security detail know to slip into the stairwell. He then approached Sharon and lay his hands atop her shoulders.

I'm in the next room, just in case he gets defensive or panics or something. You just do what you do best, get your man to crack, Darth Raydor." He then kissed the tip of her nose and made his way to the bedroom to wait.

A soft knock sounded at the front door. Sharon took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, and approached the door, a million thoughts mingling in her head. What would this do to her children was chief among them.

Offering up a quick prayer, she opened the door.

"Jack, come in."

He stepped inside and leaned in to press a chaste kiss to her cheek. Looking around, he was pleased to not find Flynn there.

"Flynn out tonight? I'd have figured he'd be displeased to have me here," he scoffed.

"Andy has plans tonight, Jack. Why don't you have a seat. Can I get you something to drink?"

Looking around at the quiet condo, perfectly tidy and festively decorated, he said, "Yeah, sure."

"Coffee okay?" she asked from the kitchen.

He turned toward her voice and answered, "Yeah, coffee's fine. Uh, where are the kids, Shar-ron?" Standing from his place on the sofa, he sauntered toward the dining room table, which was bare. "Um, dinner, Sharon?" He stood, hands on hips, and watched her gracefully move about her kitchen.

Spinning where she stood, she eyed him over the glasses perched on the end of her nose. "About that," she began. "The kids won't be joining us after all, Jack. I hope that's not a problem."

She walked past him, taking both coffee cups to the living room. Taking her place on the couch, she patted the place beside her and invited him to join her there. Gleeful, he joined her, sitting closer than necessary. Stretching his arm across the back of the sofa, he leaned in close and asked her, "So, what did you have in mind, Shar-ron?" he drawled.

"Oh, I thought we might just catch up, talk about work."

"Work? Why would we talk about work?"

"How about you tell me what you've been up to lately. Anything interesting, 'Jay Ray?'" Her eyebrow lifted and her head cocked. Her smile disappeared.

"Wha, what?" He tried to feign confusion, as if he didn't understand. It was a look he'd attempted numerous times over the course of their marriage, but never quite pulled off.

"Got yourself some new playmates, Jackson? I've got to say, you made a dangerous choice in friends, once again."

"I don't know what you're talking about, Sharon. It's just a nickname I got from one of my clients. What's it to you?" he asked, a smarmy countenance about him. "Is this why you called me over here, under false pretenses, I might add? To grill me about my cases? That's privileged and you know that."

He stood and headed toward the door. "You should know better, Sharon!"

"You're not going anywhere until you explain your association with the men who shot me last week! Now sit down. Now."

"Now, Sharon, that was not me! I would never..." he began.

"Never what, Jack? Never betray me? Cheat on me? Never lie, never put me in a bad position? Never endanger me? Because that's what you did, Jack, when you let me and Andy go into that warehouse with your new friends!" She turned away, unable to look at him. "How could you be a part of this, Jack?"

She stood, shaking. Her reaction did nothing to temper his anger.

"I did not send you and that Flynn" he sneered at the name, "in to get shot. I wouldn't do that."

"Oh, wouldn't you?" she spun to face him.

"No!"

"Then what the hell happened, Jack? Because I sure as hell got shot. I've got the stitches to prove it. Three surgeries, Jack and Andy almost went blind!"

That only fueled his anger further. "Oh, the hell with Andy," he drawled out the name. he reached for her and grabbed her by the arms, tightly. Shaking her, he shouted at her. "You weren't supposed to be there!"

Her head fell to the side as she spoke through clenched teeth.

"Jack, let go of me. You are hurting me."

"But you've got to believe me. I never thought you'd be there!"

"Get your hands off of her this instant," came a deep baritone. After a beat, it sounded again. "Now, Jack."

Neither had heard Andy enter, and Sharon may not appreciate his interference. He had told her, however, that if the situation escalated, he would step in.

As Jack loosened his grip and dropped his hands, Andy stepped closer to Sharon, but kept his own hands to himself.

He simply looked at her, his eyes asking. Her own answered that yes, she was alright. Then Andy turned to Jack and ordered him to sit.

Jack, head hung low, took the large arm chair near the desk. Andy laid a gentle hand to the small of Sharon's back and led her to the sofa. The defeated look on Jack's face told them he might be ready to give them some answers. When she sat down and lay her hands atop her crossed legs, her ring shimmered brightly in the light of the tree. The sparkle caught Jack's eye and he sneered.

"I see you won, Flynn," he growled.

"Excuse me?" Andy asked, genuinely confused.

"You're no better than me, you know? And Sharon, yeah Sharon always wins. The hell with the rest of us," he said, almost to himself.

"Jack, what are you talking about?"

"I just wanted to get ahead; you know. I am not a loser."

"You'll have to do better than that, Jack. We need answers. There are seven bodies now, a result of this case. Andy and I almost made it nine."

"I didn't shoot anyone," he seethed, "and I didn't send you there to get shot either."

"What, exactly, did you do, Jack? Because you are connected somehow, and if the body count climbs and you didn't help me, I'm coming for you."

"You wouldn't do that, Sharon. You couldn't stand to see the kids hurt," he threatened.

"That's on you, not me. Now start talking."

Jack looked at her, down at the ring, then shook his head.

"All I did was make a call. Let someone know the files wouldn't be there much longer. That's all."

"Oh, that's not all, Jack," she said. "You shared privileged information. You gave out the case ID and file numbers. You helped steal records from a police station, Jack. What have you gotten yourself into?"

Jack stood and started to pace the room.

"I just wanted my piece. To score big, you know? I met a guy in Vegas. I dropped a bundle and couldn't cover my bet. The guy covered it for me in exchange for some legal work. Turned out he did legal work for Berlusconi's people. The money was great. The girls," he looked at Sharon, the reconsidered finishing his statement. "I was making more money that I ever dreamed of until, until I blew it all. I was so close. The biggest score of all. So, my guy covered me again, only this time it was a much bigger note. And they had me. I had no choice."

"Jack," she said seriously, "you could have to come to us for help. Despite everything. We'd have helped you do the right thing.

He laughed out loud. "Call you? Are you kidding me? So you could win again. You'd love that, wouldn't you? To see me lose again. The hell with you, Sharon!"

She looked at him and shook her head. Had he ever really known her?

"Jack, you're about to go down to my office and explain to my team everything, and I mean everything about your association with the Berlusconi operation. Don't leave anything out." She turned her gaze toward Andy and her eyes instantly softened.

"Andy, would you please see our guest out?" She then left the room.

Andy nodded and headed toward the door. When Jack ambled toward him, Andy opened the door to reveal Julio.

"Detective Sanchez will escort you to Major Crimes, where you will give your statement."

Jack turned and glared at him.

"I just bet you're loving this, Flynn."

"You know, Jack? You're wrong about that. You're wrong in thinking everybody wants you to fail, everybody's against you. We don't have the time to waste plotting your downfall, Jack. You know what, though? You keep setting yourself up to fail. You keep rolling the dice because you think you're too good to just work hard like the rest of us. Pay your way, like the rest of us. You walked out on two dynamite kids who, despite the way you treated them, took you back time and time again. You had that angel in there and you threw her away like she was nothing, when she's," his breath shuttered through him. "When she's everything. So yeah, you are a loser, and you did it to yourself."

Shifting his gaze to Julio, he simply nodded. When the detective said, "Come with me, Sir," Andy closed the door.

When Sharon emerged from the bedroom, she found him rinsing their coffee cups and placing them into the dishwasher. Approaching him from behind, she reached her arms around him and rested her cheek against his back.

"That could have gone better," he murmured.

"Hmm," she replied. When he turned in her arms, and wrapped his own around her, he found her smiling sadly up at him. "Angel?"

He smiled and kissed her forehead. "Yes. Absolutely an angel. My angel."

Unwilling to belabor the evening further, she pulled him closer and looked him in the eyes.

"Wash the angel's hair?" she purred. he grinned.

"Certainly a better way to wrap up the evening."

The water was warm, not quite hot. It was enough to beat down on their weary bodies without aggravating their still-healing wounds. The injuries to his shoulder and her abdomen were coming along nicely, improving on schedule. By the time they were released to desk duty, he in one week, she in two, they would be in relatively good shape. They would be back at work in time to testify in the Berlusconi trial and see to all the other players, major and minor.

For now, though, they would attempt to set it all aside. Their team, their family, would tackle Jack and everything he might say. Tonight, they would even attempt to rid the other's mind of the ugliness of Jack's words and the vitriol with which he delivered them. In these few moments, he would make her know his love.

Two days later, they met with their team in the conference room of Major Crimes. Officially on medical leave, they were limited in their participation, but no one would refuse their presence.

Their suspect and his attorney were due in soon and Provenza would be taking point. The one remaining witness, the who had fled the shoot out in the warehouse, was gone. Or dead. At any rate, they wouldn't have his testimony. Without it, they were unlikely to have enough to nail Berlusconi this time around. Best case, they'd be able to take down enough members of his enterprise that somebody would be willing to turn on him. With a body count of seven, they had some legal leverage at their disposal. They just needed the opportunity to use it.

Berlusconi and his attorney, Ciro Ricci, joined them in the conference room, allowing most of the team to be in attendance, while Sharon and Andy remained in electronics with Buzz. Upon entering the room, they made their way around the large conference table, Berlusconi wearing his usual smug grin, his lawyer carrying less swagger than before. He carried a slight limp as he made his way to the free chair next to his client.

"Are you well, Mr. Ricci?"

"Fine, gentlemen. Just twisted my knee on the tennis court. Got to keep active."

The orange-hued tan he sported was more indicative of a tanning bed that a tennis court but working for Berlusconi, he could easily afford either or both.

"Gentlemen, we appreciate you both coming down this morning. We have some information and would like to give you a chance to comment."

The lawyer sat forward; his client simply relaxed all the more.

"We have in custody a witness to the break in at Hollenbeck Station Evidence Warehouse just before Christmas. Our witness will testify to having given sensitive information to the parties involved in the theft of police files and the murder of the desk sergeant and the evidence clerk. Also, testimony will include the identities those present at the warehouse shooting."

"None of which, I assure you, will implicate my involvement," smirked Berlusconi, tugging pretentiously at his cuffs.

"But it does implicate," Tao paused, "you, Mr. Ricci," he said to the lawyer.

"Doubtful," he said with a confidence he lacked.

From the speaker placed high on the wall came distant, tinny voices.

"What are you doing here?"

"I'm not going down for this. He said I'd be protected!"

"It's all under control. Cool down."

With a click, the recording stopped. All eyes were on Ricci, trusted attorney to the Berlusconi crime family. Ricci himself stared straight ahead, frozen under their cold eyes.

"I'm not," he said, repeating the words they'd just heard. "I'm not!" he said, more emphatically this time.

He stood abruptly, grasping at the table for support. Glaring at his boss, he said angrily, "You said I'd be protected!"

"Mr. Ricci, you will be quiet," Berlusconi said.

The lawyer stepped forward, still favoring his leg. "You said you'd protect me!"

Back in electronic, all eyes were glued to the monitors, shocked what was unfolding before them. Sharon stood and slipped from the room.

"Mr. Ricci, I'd advise you to take your seat, sir. We couldn't want you to startle Detective Sanchez," Tao advised.

"If I go down, you go down!" the lawyer told his boss.

"You will say no more, Mr. Ricci," his boss said, his voice growing louder, his relaxed demeanor gone.

"He's the one who ordered those men to steal the files. I only got to them first so I'd have something to bargain with. But he told them to take the evidence, just like he told them to kill the witnesses. Whatever he said, they did. Never asked any questions. But he's the one!" he shouted, pointing at his boss.

The door opened and the Captain stood in the opening, Sanchez at her side.

When Ricci began to move, Sanchez started to intercept him. The Captain stepped forward first and grabbed the clipboard from the table. When Ricci started for the door, she stopped his exit by swinging it into his leg with all her might. He howled in pain as the wound began to bleed.

Her team looked at her in shock.

"Tennis accident, Mr. Ricci, or gunshot wound?" she asked, knowing.

The lawyer's eyes widened and his lips twisted angrily.

"You're the missing gunman from the warehouse, aren't you, Mr. Ricci? You shot at me and my lieutenant, sir, and I find that I am very offended," she said, calmly and to the point.

"I...I," he said I'd be protected.

"Gentlemen, arrest them both."

She turned on her heel and walked directly to her office.

In electronics, her team sent up a cheer.

Fresh Start

By end of day, Berlusconi and his attorney were in custody, awaiting arraignment. Esposito had signed his deal and was in protective custody far from Berlusconi and his men. The Berlusconi estate had been raided, along with Ricci's residence. All possible loose ends had been tied up.

Having been sent home, Sharon and Andy retreated to the balcony to absorb the events of the day. The kids were expected for a family dinner. Their holiday visit was nearing its end. There was a conversation which needed to be had, and they weren't looking forward to it. The kids were running late, putting off the inevitable.

Andy rested on the chaise, Sharon seated between his legs and reclined against his chest. He'd pulled a warm throw over them, shielding them from the chill of the January evening. Curled tightly into one another, they were warm and safe and whole.

That is how the kids found them, not sleeping and not talking, but simply content in being. The glass patio door opened silently on its track and the trio slipped out into the night. Seeing their folks so settled and serene, they were loath to break the spell.

Hearing their hushed voices, Andy opened his eyes and smiled.

"Sweetheart, they're home," he said and kissed her forehead.

Sharon opened her eyes and smiled at her children. Giving Andy one last squeeze where she snuggled against him, she slowly sat up. Remaining perched between his legs, she straightened her clothes and ran her fingers through her hair. As the blanket fell away, she shivered.

"It's gotten colder. Should we move inside?" she asked.

They all agreed and made their way into the living room, which was dark. The lights on the tree gave a magical illumination to the space, and made it seem somehow easier to talk. It was quiet and inviting.

Taking their seats around the room, Sharon and her children made themselves comfortable, while Andy disappeared into the kitchen. He returned shortly with a carafe of decaf and a tray of mugs. He set it on the coffee table and removed one, with a tea bag dangling from its side, and handed it to Sharon as he joined her on the sofa.

"Thank you," she whispered. Turning to her kids, she asked. "So how was your visit?" They had planned on spending the afternoon with college friends also in town for the holiday, while Rusty had plans with Buzz.

"It was nice. Everyone looked good. Living the life," Ricky said of his old friends. "They asked about you. They'd seen the news, you know."

He had a look about I, something she couldn't define. It was part disappointment, part sadness.

"What is it, Ricky? Emily?" They seemed, burdened, maybe. If they were already upset about something, she'd feel even worse adding to that burden. She had to talk to them about the situation with their father. Face their disappointment, their sadness. There was also the possibility they would be angry with her. No matter how he'd let them down, they tried to protect their dad, especially her daughter. She prayed they would understand that her hands were simply tied this time.

The kids eyed one another in a manner that only added to her concern.

Emily sat forward in her chair, sipping at her coffee. Setting it on her knees and cupping it between her hands, she looked at her mother.

"We visited with someone else today, Mom."

Sharon looked at her daughter, and then her son, expectantly, and then turned to Andy, who simply shrugged.

"We saw Dad this afternoon, Mom," Ricky clarified. He watched his mother's eyes grow wide with shock and concern. He also noticed that when her hand shot out, Andy's found it in an instant. That instinct, that lifeline was something she'd never had with their father.

"Let us explain, Mom. Okay?" he asked, hoping to settle the panic he saw creeping into her demeanor.

"Lieutenant Provenza called today and asked us to meet him at the office to talk about the case. He said he had some information he thought might help us to better help you with everything that has happened. As you know, even with all the security, we've not gotten the full story on things, which was fine. All that was important was that you guys would be okay."

Sharon nodded, following but still frightened by the idea that they now knew about their dad and it had come from someone else.

"Apparently, he wanted to spare you the job of telling us about Dad's involvement in your shooting," he said, frustrated.

"Ricky, I..." she started.

"Mom, let me finish, please."

Sharon sat back, just slightly, allowing Andy's arm to trace lazy patterns up and down her back in an effort to calm her.

"He told us everything, well everything he could. He seemed to think we might resent you for not trying to bail him out, and assured us it was entirely out of your hands."

"We heard the recording, Mom," Emily said in a flat tone. "We heard what he said to you and what you said to hm" she paused and looked at the man at her mother's side. "We heard what you said too, Andy."

Andy rubbed his hand across his face and looked at the kids sitting across from him.

"Em, Rick, I'm sorry. It was a difficult night after a difficult week. I shouldn't have said your..."

"Mom is an angel? That's the part I'm choosing to dwell on," Ricky assured him.

Andy looked first at Rick and Emily, then at Sharon, stunned.

Sharon looked at her children and her eyes filled with tears.

"You're not angry you found out before I could tell you?"

Ricky shook his head, a sad smile ghosting his lips.

"Mom, wasn't that exactly the point of this family dinner? We know you were gonna tell us. The lieutenant just made sure you wouldn't have to," he reassured her. "And then, he took us to see Dad."

He paused, allowing that to sink in. His mother looked at him with eyes full of confusion and sadness.

"Oh, Ricky."

"We asked, Mom. That's on us."

She looked at him, then his sister, then Rusty, who looked at her and shook his head.

"Hey, not me. He's not my Dad. I stayed in the car," he said, hoping to lightening the mood.

It worked. A chuckle passed through the group and they took a beat to breathe.

"He tried the usual poor, pitiful me routine, until we told him we'd heard every word. How he ever let himself get in so deep, I don't know." Ricky shook his head.

"You were right though, Mom. He's always been his own worst enemy. The easy score, the quick fix, was always easier than hard work and dedication. To his job, to you, to us," Emily said sadly as she leaned toward her brother.

"We needed to see him and tell him goodbye, at least for now. Whether he intended to or not, Mom, he put you in a dangerous situation. You and Andy were shot. You could have died, Mom. He's got a lot to play for. Losing his law license is the least of his worries," Ricky said. His mom was his only real parent. His constant. His dad had almost taken her away. He wouldn't move past that quickly or easily.

"I know we'll see him again, in time. But this is a lot. We need to focus on getting you well and back to work," Emily told her. "And we have a wedding to plan," she said with a genuine smile. "A new family to celebrate."

Holding tightly to Andy's hand, Sharon sniffed and shook her head.

"I'm just so sorry all this happened," she said.

"So are we, Mom, but it happened to you. Nothing is because of you. So, no more apologies, okay?" Ricky looked at her, determination in his gaze.

Sniffing again and pulling her hand free, she stood and walked toward him. "Okay." She pulled all three of her children into her embrace. "Love you all so much."

Ricky eyed Andy and motioned for him to join them, which he did. Their new family was indeed worth celebrating.

Spring returned and with it came warmer temperatures and hordes of spring break visitors. This year, however, also brought a wedding.

It was decided after the harrowing events of Christmas that springtime was as long as they were willing to wait. It was a time of new beginnings, a fresh start, and they were taking it literally.

Nicole hosted the small, intimate ceremony in her backyard, with only the family- including the team, in attendance. Father Stan officiated, a dream come true for Sharon, and they were finally wed, a dream come true for Andy.

The mid-morning ceremony was followed by an informal luncheon in the yard and a photo shoot conducted by Buzz. The newlyweds were healed and happy, and their family, blood and blue, was whole.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed "All in the Family," watch for the second story in the series, "At the Ballet."