When the Spirit Moves

When the Spirit Moves

Author: Tim

Pairing: C/S

Rating: For All

Spoilers: Crate N Burial

Disclaimer: Jerry's not mine, dammit

A.N.: Thank Yous for everyone birthday ideas

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CHAPTER 1

Catherine POV:

I just told everyone that Lindsay doesn't want a party. Sara asked

how long before someone starts chipping in for gifts. I replied with

"when the spirit moves you Sara, which in your case never." Warrick and

I were working a case of hit and run where a young girl died. We ended

up finding out that the grandson was driving the car and not the

grandfather.

After shift, I went to the locker room. I opened my locker and found

an envelope from someone with "For Lindsay" written on it. I was tempted

to open it, but I didn't. I went to the break room to pick up the other

gifts: two chem sets(Gil & Nick), a card from Warrick, and a card from

Greg.

When I arrived home Nancy and Lindsay were making breakfast. I handed

her the bag with her presents in it, and she asked if I had told them

that she didn't want a party. I told her that I did, but they wanted her

to have them anyway. She opened Warrick's card which happened to have

fifty dollars in it, Greg's had twenty. She asked what the other

envelope was, but I told her that I didn't know.

She opened it and found out that it was a gift certificate from

BuildABear. I asked who it was from, she told it was from Sara. Lindsay

asked me if Sara was the new woman that started recently. Nodding, I

realized what I had said to Sara earlier. I kissed Lindsay goodbye, and

Nancy took her to school.

I called the lab to get Sara's home number. When I called, I told

Sara that I was sorry for what I had said and to thank her for the gift.

I asked her if she wanted to get lunch later as an apology. Sara said

she would, we said our goodbyes, and I decided to get some sleep.

CHAPTER 2

Sara's POV:

I can't believe that she called me about the present and to

apologize. I just figured that she would say something at work, and then

she invites me to lunch.

I still can't believe that I bought Lindsay a birthday present. I

haven't met her yet, but the way everyone talks about her it's like I

already know her as well as anyone. Uncles Gil, Warrick, and Nick

telling their stories, and big brother Greg with his.

At first I didn't know what to get her. I can't get her a Barbie doll

for obvious reasons. Those Bratz dolls are popular, but with those

creepy eyes I can't bring myself to buy one. I didn't want to get her a

chem set because I figured at least Gil would get her one. I decided to

take a trip to the mall to see if anything caught my eye. I was going to

stop in the bookstore, but I didn't know what she liked to read. I

stopped in the toy store, and I saw one of those EZ bake ovens. I heard

that the stuff you bake doesn't taste real great. As much as I like to

give Catherine a hard time, I couldn't do that to her. I was thinking a

stuffed animal, but only as a last resort. I continued walking around

until I ran into this place called BuildABear, so I bought a gift

certificate.

I decided to get some sleep before my lunch with Catherine. I woke up

around twelve getting my usual four hours. I called Catherine to see if

she wanted me to pick her up. She said that would be alright. I made it

over there by one, and we decided to go to the new italian place. While

we were talking she asked about San Francisco, and why I chose to take

Gil up on his offer to come to Vegas. I told that all of those wounds

were still a little fresh and didn't want to talk about it. She told me

that she wouldn't push, but if I ever wanted to talk about it she would

be there. By the time I dropped her it was a little after three. Nancy

and Lindsay had pulled in right before us. Then Catherine asked me if I

wanted to come in for coffee and have Lindsay thank me in person.

CHAPTER 3

We went inside and I said "Nancy, Lindsay this is Sara." Lindsay

walked over to Sara gave her a hug and said "Thank you for the gift."

Lindsay came over to me and asked if Sara could come with us when she

went to BuildABear. I told her that it was up to Sara. She said "I would

love to, maybe sometime this weekend."

Lindsay gave me a hug and got her stuff together to go over to

Nancy's. I told Sara" Why don't you have a seat while the coffee brews,

and I get changed." By the time I came back into the living room, Sara

had fallen asleep on the couch. I covered her up and decided to get some

sleep myself.

I woke up a little after six and decided to check on Sara. I warmed

up a couple cups of coffee and took one to Sara. I nudged her "Hey, Sara

time to get up." She stretched and asked how long she been asleep. I

told her " About three hours, I came in after changing and you were out.

I figured you needed it so I didn't wake you."

We decided to get some dinner before shift. I asked "Do you get alot

of sleep when you're at home?" " Normally, I have too much going on that

I catch three or four tops," Sara replied. I was thinking that is why

she drinks so much coffee at work. I took her over to her place to

change for work. While I was there, I looked around, but there didn't

seem to be much in the form of pictures or anything too personal.

We made it to work and got our assignments. Gil and Nick were paired

up, Warrick got a solo, and Sara and I got a DB dumped in the desert. We

found out that was being abused and finally killed by her boyfriend.

During the interrogation he said, "She was asking for it." Sara jumped

and said " Nobody asks for it." I noticed that her hands were shaking

and took her outside. I asked " What the hell was that all about?" Sara

said, " I will tell you everything, after shift."

CHAPTER 4

After shift, Sara and I decided to get some breakfast while we

talked. Sara said " I was seven when it started. My dad had just lost

his job and started to drink heavily. He normally started on my mom, but

after awhile he would come into my room." The first time I was hit he

came into my room, and saw me doing homework. He asked, " Do you think

you are better than me?" Then he smacked me across the face. I looked

over at Sara and saw a tear running down her face. I wiped it away and

all I could say is " I'm sorry."

I asked, " Should we take this conversation back to my house?"

Sara told me, " It's probably a good idea because the story just gets worse."

I paid the check and walked Sara to the car. When we got home, I talked

to Nancy while Sara and Lindsay were discussing school. I marvelled at

he way Sara talked to Lindsay, since I didn't think she had children. I

gave Lindsay a hug and a kiss, and Nancy took her to school. I told

Sara, " Why don't you get comfortable while I change." When I came back

in, Sara had fallen asleep again. I covered her up and went to bed

myself thinking the talk could wait.

I woke up to a scream coming from the living room. I ran in there,

and Sara was still sleeping. I nudged her and told her, " Sara, it is

just a dream." Whatever was going on in this dream caused her to throw a

punch. It landed on my cheek right below my eye, and I fell backwards on

the floor. Sara woke up, " Catherine I'm sorry I didn't know it was

you." I said, " It is not your fault, I heard you scream so I came to

see what was going on." Sara went into the kitchen to get some ice. She

came back in and said, " You're probably going to have a black eye."

Sara and I sat at the kitchen table drinking coffee while Sara

continued telling me about her childhood. I couldn't believe the horrors

that her father put her through. I realized that Eddie is a bastard, but

he would never hurt Lindsay let alone put her in the hospital. I finally

asked

"How did you finally get out?" Sara said, " When I was thirteen, my

parents killed each other while I hid in the hall closet." I looked at

Sara with my mouth agape, " How did you survive that?" She told me, " I

moved in my grandmother until I went to college."

Nancy has just dropped off Lindsay so we could spend some time

together before I went to work. " Mom, where are you at?" Lindsay

yelled. I said " Sara and I are in the kitchen." Lindsay walked in, "

Holy crap Mom, what happened to your eye?" Sara looked at me and I said,

" Sara was having a bad dream. I came to see what was going on. I tried

to wake her up, but she was throwing a punch at whatever eas happening."

Sara picked up Lindsay on her lap, " I didn't mean to hit your mom, and

I apologized for doing it." Lindsay nodded and decided to start her

homework.

Sara and I dropped Lindsay at Nancy's before going to work. I had no

idea how the guys were going to react to my black eye. We headed for the

breakroom to wait for our assignments. Warrick and Nick were the first

to come in. "What the hell?" Nick asked. Sara stood up, " I did it."

Before she had a chance to explain, Gil walked in. " What's going on?"

he asked. Nick chimed in, " Sara punched Catherine and gave her a black

eye." Gil gave Warrick and Nick their assignments and told them to

leave. "Why did you hit Catherine?" he asked. Sara was about to explain,

but I said " It was an accident." I explained the whole story, and he

handed Sara and I our assignment and we left.

After leaving our scene, I went to see if Greg had anything yet. " I

hear Sara punched you in the face. What did you do?" Greg asked. " I

didn't do anything. She was having a nightmare. I went to see what was

going on, and she hit me." I explained. Greg gave me a funny look. I

told him that we had breakfast that morning. We went over to my place so

I could see Lindsay before she went to school. Sara walked into the room

and Greg asked, " So you and Catherine are dating?" " What?" Sara and I

said simultaneously. " No, Catherine and I are not dating." Sara told

our spiky headed friend.

Sara and I walked into the breakroom for coffee. Warrick and Nick

walked in and wanted an explanation. I gave them the whole story to keep

the rumor mill from exploding. Sara and I solved our case, and made

plans to take Lindsay to the mall. We decided to do it this weekend

since Gil gave us both it off. Sara asked, " How about I come over

around eleven and take you and Lindsay to lunch?" I replied, "Why don't

you stay over with me? I'm sure Lindsay would love to see you again."

Sara answered back," Sure, but I need to stop at my place for a change

of clothes. Also, where am I going to sleep?"

We stopped at Sara's, and I told her she should grab something to

sleep in. When we got there, Lindsay ran up and gave me a hug. Then she

walked over to Sara and hugged her too. " Sara and I are going to catch

some sleep before we take you to the mall." I told my attentive

daughter. Sara chimed, " Okay, we never discussed where I'm going to

sleep?" Lindsay spoke up, " Why don't you sleep in mommy's bed. Whenever

I sleep over at a friends house, we share the same bed. I don't see why

you two can't." Sara and I chuckled and nodded. I told Sara to keep

Lindsay busy while I showered. Sara showered after I did and came into

my room. " What are those?" I asked trying not to laugh.

" What's so funny?" Sara countered. " Your pajamas," I said starting

to laugh. " What Scooby Doo kicks ass. I grew up watching it. It was a

half hour of peace during my childhood," Sara said smiling. I apologized

for making fun and patted the other side of the bed. I watched Sara fall

asleep to make sure she was okay. I rolled over and fell asleep. When I

woke up, I felt an arm and a leg wrapped around my body. Lindsay

knocked, " Mommy, are you and Sara up yet?" Sara groaned and stretched,

" Sorry didn't mean to be all clingy." I told Lindsay she could come in.

She saw Sara's pajamas and asked me if could buy her a set. " We'll see,

let's get some lunch," I answered.

I whipped a quick lunch before heading to the mall. Lindsay insisted

that Sara and I hold her hands while walking through the mall. We made

it to BuildABear. " You two should do this together," Sara told me. I

watched Sara go sit on a bench. While Lindsay was picking what she

wanted, she asked " I think we should Sara a bear." I asked, " Why do

you want to buy Sara one?" Lindsay replied, " She seems to be a little

sad." I saw the perfect thing for Sara at the same Lindsay did. We left

to find Sara, and I found her looking off into space. " Hey you're back,

what's with two bags?" Sara asked. " This one is for you." Lindsay said

handing Sara the bag. She took out the bear from her bag and it had a

Scooby Doo pattern on it. I watched Sara and she looked like she was

going to cry. "Lindsay, go to that juice stand and get yourself

something to drink." I asked. Keeping an eye on Lindsay, I asked "

What's wrong, Sara?"

" I haven't felt this way since my grandmother." Sara said with tears

falling down her face. I asked, " Felt like what?" Wiping tears away,

Sara said " Loved." I looked at Sara and started to cry. Lindsay came

back and asked, "Mommy, why are you and Sara crying?" I told her it was

something Sara said. We sat down with Lindsay and explained the whole

story. Lindsay stood up, " Why doesn't Sara move in with us? We have

that spare room with nothing but junk in it."

" I don't know if that is such a good idea," Sara replied. " Why

not?" Lindsay asked. "Maybe you can sleep on it," I said. Sara nodded

and Lindsay suggested we get a movie. We caught a quick dinner and went

home. Lindsay picked out the new Lilo & Stitch movie. We sat down on the

couch to watch it. Halfway through, Lindsay was asleep on Sara and Sara

had fallen asleep on my lap. I covered us up and fell asleep.

I woke up to the smell of breakfast. I walked into the kitchen, "

What's going on?" Lindsay ran over and gave me a hug, " Morning mommy."

" Morning sweetie," I replied. "Morning Catherine, how did you sleep?"

Sara asked. " Better than expected considering how I slept," I answered.

Lindsay and Sara chimed in, " Sorry about that." " I convinced Sara to

move in," Lindsay telling her mom. " Are you sure Sara?" I asked. Sara

nodded and we ate breakfast.

Sara and I came up with a plan. Since Sara's rent is paid through the

end of the month, we had two weeks to move Sara in. " I think we should

go to your place and pick up a few clothes," I said. The three of us

headed over to Sara's after breakfast. " Lindsay, why don't you sit on

the couch while Sara and I get some things together," asking nicely. I

sat on the bed while Sara packed. I saw the look of worry on her face. "

Are you okay?" I asked. " Yea, I'm just a little nervous about this."

Sara answered. " Why," I queried. " Like I said, it has been awhile

since I have been cared for so much." Sara said with her eyes getting

glassy.

I walked over to her and gave her a hug. I felt tears fall on my

shoulder, " It's okay," I say comfortingly. Lindsay walked into the

room, "Mommy, is Sara okay?" Sara knelt down by Lindsay, " Yea, your mom

was comforting me." Lindsay wrapped her around Sara, " Here I will

comfort you too." I saw what my daughter did and I started to cry.

Lindsay saw this, " Sara it looks like mommy needs a hug, too." We

stopped to get lunch before going home. I asked, " Sara can you watch

Linds while I go grocery shopping?" She replied, "I keep an eye on her

while your gone." When I got home, I walked in on the cutest scene I

have ever seen. Lindsay and Sara asleep on the couch with a Scooby Doo

rerun on TV.

Sara woke up and saw me in the chair with a smile on my face. "What?"

she asked. "Nothing, you're just becoming Lindsay's favorite pillow." I

said trying not to laugh. "Mommy, what's so funny?" Lindsay asked.

"Nothing sweetie, I was teasing Sara." I replied. The three of us went

to the spare room to see how big of a mess we were dealing with. It

actually wasn't that bad, we had it cleaned in a little over two hours.

"Do you want to repaint it?" I asked Sara. "No I like the color," Sara

said looking at her new room. "Mom can I play with Sara while you make

dinner?" Lindsay asked. Seeing Sara smiling I agreed.

After dinner Sara and I did the dishes while Lindsay watched a little

TV. "Mommy can we watch that movie that I didn't see the end of?"

Lindsay asked. "Yes, but go put on your pajamas first," I replied. "Sara

will you put yours on too?" Lindsay pleaded. Sara nodded and took

Lindsay's hand as they disappeared down the hall. They came back into

the room with Lindsay being carried with her legs wrapped around Sara's

waist. "Now what's so funny?" Sara asked looking at me. "How many pairs

of Scooby Doo pajamas do you have?" I questioned holding back a laugh.

"It came in a three pack," she replied.

After the movie, I picked up Lindsay to carry her to bed. "Can Sara

come too?" Lindsay said yawning. "Yeah sweetie I'll help your mom tuck

you in," Sara said following me down the hall. We tucked her in and both

gave her kisses. "Mommy can Sara come with us when you drop me off at

school?" Lindsay said starting to nod off. "Yes she can, sweet dreams

baby girl," I said. Sara started to yawn, "You want to go to bed too?"

She mumbled and nodded while I had her lean on me while taking her to my

room. After tucking her in, I went to the bathroom to change. I came

back in and fell asleep.

When the alarm went off at seven, I got hit in the forehead with a

hand. "Sorry force of habit," Sara said apologizing. "Can you get

Lindsay up? I want to make a call," I asked. I called the lab and asked

for Warrick. "Warrick, do you still have your truck?" I inquired. "Yea,

what do you need it for?" he asked. I told that I invited Sara to live

with us. He said, "I'll drop it off after work." Sara and I drove

Lindsay to school when we got there she gave me a kiss and hugged Sara.

On the way home, "Who did you call this morning?" Sara asked. "Warrick,

I asked to borrow his truck to move your bed." I answered. Arriving back

home, Warrick and Nick were waiting in the driveway smiling.

"Nick what are you doing here?" I asked shutting the car door.

"Warrick told me what you're doing so I figured I'd lend a hand," Nick

answered with a big Texas grin. Sara looking like she was going to cry

walked over to Warrick and Nick and gave them both hugs.

They followed us to Sara's house. "Why don't you start with the bed

then come back for the dresser and bookshelves," I said taking control.

Sara and I started with her bookshelves and packed those boxes in the

car.

"We have the frame loaded up," Nick informed us awaiting

instructions. "Sorry, here are the keys to my house, Sara's room is the

second one down the hall on the left," I said telling them where to set

the frame up.

Sara and I dragged the mattress and box springs into the living room

so we start packing up her room. Sara looked at me seriously, "Why are

you doing all of this Catherine?" I took her hand and led her to the

couch to sit down. "It's because of Holly," I said hoping she wouldn't

freak.

"I don't know what that means," she said looking a little tense. "It

was because I convinced her to stay the night she was killed. The guilt

was overwhelming," I started to explain.

"That doesn't explain how I fit in," Sara said looking a little

confused. "It was something Lindsay said when we at the mall. She said

you seemed happy, but your eyes were telling a different story," I said

putting my arm around Sara. I told her that growing up wasn't that great

for you, and she said we should take care of you.

Trying not to cry, "Thank you, but I feel like I should apologize for

the I treated you when I first showed up." "Don't worry about, I didn't

exactly put out the welcome mat," I said trying to make her feel better.

We were hugging when Warrick and Nick came back, "Hey, I thought this

was a joint effort, or did you just want to see us get all hot and

sweaty," Nick said jokingly. "Sorry, Sara and I needed to have a heart

to heart before continuing," I explained trying not to embarrass her.

"Don't worry about it. We'll load up the mattress and box springs,"

Warrick said politely touching Sara's shoulder. We went back to Sara's

bedroom to pack up. She took the dresser while I handled the closet.

That's when I saw already packed boxes.

"What are these?" I questioned. "It's stuff I never unpacked when I

came here," she answered. "Why didn't you ever unpack it?" I said trying

to get her to open up. "I didn't know whether or not I was going to

stay, or even if I wanted to stay," she explained. "Why?" I asked

pulling her into another hug. "I didn't know if I was going to fit in or

even be a CSI anymore because something happened in Frisco that I'm not

comfortable talking about right now," she told me trying to hold the

tears.

She started to cry, and I just held on tighter. "It's okay, I don't

know what happened there, but I promise nothing will happen to you as

long as I'm around," I said trying not to sound too motherly.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to break down like that," Sara said wiping

her eyes. "Don't worry about it whatever happens from now on, Lindsay

and I will take care of you." I told her.

We loaded up the already packed boxes into the Denali before

finishing packing the rest of her clothes. When the guys got back I told

them take the dresser and bookshelves. Sara went to pack up the bathroom

while I finished the closet.

Talking a little loud so she could hear me, "Sara, you can bring your

recliner, but I don't have room for your couch. Maybe one of the guys

could use it."

I finished up the closet, and Sara and I packed up the rest of the

boxes. The guys came back to see if there was anything else. I told them

to grab the recliner and meet us back at my place.

Sara took a look around to make sure she didn't forget to pack

anything. She locked up and we headed for the SUV.

"You really didn't have all that much to pack?" I asked trying to

loosen things up. "No, I didn't. I really don't have any hobbies besides

work," Sara said telling me something we all suspected. "Well maybe

Lindsay and I can fix that," I said trying to make her smile.

We started to unload the Denali when Warrick and Nick pulled in. I

told them just to put the chair anywhere in the living room. After that

they helped unload the rest of the boxes.

"I want to take you guys to lunch to say thank you," Sara said

smiling. "Rain check, I want to go home and get some sleep," Nick

declining politely. "Why don't you buy us breakfast after shift?"

Warrick offered. "Okay and thanks for everything," Sara replied giving

the guys hugs.

Sara went to start putting her room together while I started lunch. I

went to Sara's room and knocked. "Hey, lunch is ready. Oh my goodness,

what is that?" I asked looking at her bed. "It's my Scooby Doo bedding,

why don't you like it?" Sara answered trying not to laugh. "No it's

alright, but If Linds sees it I have a feeling she'll want a set." I

said smiling.

We headed for the kitchen to eat, and I told Sara it might be a good

idea that we take naps before picking up Lindsay from school.

I woke up a little after two. I walked across the hall to Sara's

room. I stood there for a moment watching her sleep and noticed how

peaceful she looked.

"Hey sleeping beauty, time to get up," I said nudging her lightly.

"Mmnng," she groaned and stretched out. "It's time to pick up Lindsay,"

I informed her.

The drive to the school was quiet. I didn't want to invade her

thoughts. She probably has plenty going on up there. Arriving a little

early, I figured we might talk.

"You aren't having second thoughts are you?" I asked. "No, I'm just

getting used to fact that I can be happy," Sara answered smiling. "If

you ever want to talk about anything, I will always be there for you," I

told touching her hand.

We were so into our conversation that we missed Lindsay arriving at

the car. "Mommy, Sara you're here," she said will a big smile. "How was

school, baby?" I said matching her smile. "Great we got to do macaroni

art in class," she said giving me a hug and kiss.

Lindsay gave Sara a hug before she sat down and buckled up. We

stopped to get ice cream before heading home. We arrived home, and Sara

helped LIndsay out of the car. I couldn't help but smile.

"Sara can you help Lindsay with her homework while I rearranged the

living room," I asked hoping Sara didn't want to help me. "Come on

Linds," Sara said nodding and taking Lindsay's hand.

I decided to put Sara's recliner in the corner by the end table, so

she could put her scanner on it. I know she likes to listen to it to

relax. I don't know why, but to each his own. I started to wonder how

Sara and Lindsay were coming along since I hadn't heard a peep in

awhile. I cracked open the door, and Lindsay had fallen asleep on Sara

who was also asleep. I tiptoed out of the room to get the camera. I took

the picture, but Sara wasn't totally asleep and opened her eyes.

"Did you help Lindsay with her homework?" I inquired. "Yea she had a

little math, but she wanted to sit on my lap while reading the assigned

chapters for history," Sara answered.

"Mommy,what's up?" Lindsay yawned. "Nothing sweetie, I came in to

check on you and Sara," I answered. We decided to watch some TV before I

started dinner. About six I went to the kitchen to start it.

"Mom, do you want Sara and I to help?' Linds asked. "No baby, why

don't you take Sara and help put away more of her things," I answered.

"Come here, LInds," Sara said picking her up and taking her down the

hall.

"Lindsay just start putting the books on the bookshelf," Sara said

showing her how. I started down the hall to tell them that supper was

ready, and I heard music coming from Sara's room. I peeked inside and

saw that they were dancing to Phil Vassar.

"Do you guys get anything done when you're together?" I asked trying

not to laugh.

"Sorry Catherine, Lindsay was putting away my books, and she found my

CDs and wanted to hear what I listen to," Sara said apologizing. "Don't

worry about it, I came to tell you that dinner is ready," I said easing

her worry.

While we were eating, Lindsay was asking Sara questions about how she

grew up and her life before Vegas. Sara was giving her vague answers

even though I knew most of what happened. Lindsay is a little to young

to hear the real story even though she wants to help Sara.

"Lindsay, why don't you get your bag ready for Aunt Nancy's," I said

sensing that Sara could use a break. "Okay mommy," she replied. "Sara,

it's okay," I said pulling her into a hug.

Lindsay wanted Sara to sit in the back with her on the way to Nancy's

house. I couldn't hear what they were saying, but they seemed to be

enjoying themselves. Lindsay gave Sara a hug before she got out. I

walked her to the house and gave her a hug before heading back to the

car.

When we got to the lab, we headed to the breakroom for coffee and

await our assignments. "Evening ladies," Greg said smiling, "Sara, I

hear you have a couch in need of a home."

"Yes I do Greg, would you like it?" Sara asked. "A couch sat on by

the lovely Sara Sidle, you bet," he replied. Warrick and Nick came in

and grabbed coffee when Gil came in.

"Listen guys, it is a slow night so we will be doubling up," he

started "We have a B & E and suspicious circs."

"Nick and I will take the B & E," Warrick said winking at Sara. "I

guess that leaves us with the other. Sara, I'll meet you at the car. I

need to talk to Gil," I said handing her the keys.

"What did you want to talk about?" Gil asked looking worried. I was

trying to find the easiest way to put this. "I asked Sara to move in

with me and Lindsay," I said a little blunter than I wanted. "Is she

okay?" Gil asked looking more worried. "Yes, I'm hoping to help her be

less self reliant," I explained.

When Sara and I arrived at the crime scene, Brass was there. "Hey

Jim, what do we have?" Sara asked. "Evening ladies, the car owner's

husband reported his wife missing. He hasn't seen her in a couple days,"

Brass replied. Sara and I decided to process the car. I took the front

while Sara took the back. "I found a red hair and a little blood," Sara

announced. "Jim, is the wife a redhead?'" she asked. "Yes she is," Jim

answered. "Okay have the car towed the lab and watch the wife's credit

cards," I instructed.

I looked at my watch saw what time it was and speed dialed Nancy.

"Nanc, is she asleep yet?" I asked. She said she had just put her to

bed. "Mommy, is everything alright?" Lindsay asked. "Yea baby girl, I

called to wish you sweet dreams," I replied. "Is Sara with you?" she

inquired. "Yes she is," I said handing Sara the phone lipping 'Lindsay'.

"Hi sweetie, good night and sweet dreams," Sara said smiling handing me

back my phone.

"Catherine," Brass said gesturing to come his direction, "so is it

true, you asked Sara to move in?" "Not that it's anybody's business, but

yes I did. I feel guilty about what happened to Holly, and I wanted to

take Sara under my wing. Plus, Lindsay really likes her," I explained.

Sara and I drove back to the lab to give Greg the samples we had. While

the test was running Greg was staring at Sara. "What?" she asked.

"First, you say you're not dating, but Sara's sleeping at your house.

Now I find out that you're moving in together," Greg replied. "Sara is

moving in because Lindsay and I care for her," I said. "It's canine

blood," Greg announced as the test printed out its findings. Sara and I

looked at each other dumbfounded when my phone went off.

"Willows, yea Jim we'll meet you there," I said telling Sara there

was a hit on one of the credit cards. When we got there, Brass had the

manager unlock the door. We went inside to find the wife handcuffed to

the bed. Then a man came came out of the bathroom. "Ma'am, your husband

reported you missing," Brass said. "We found blood in your car,"

Catherine inquired. "I found an injured dog. You're not going to tell my

husband are you?" the lady asked. I turned around to leave, but I didn't

see Sara.

When I got back to the car, I saw Sara with her face in her hands.

Before I went to the car, I called Gil. "Gil something is up with Sara,"

I explained. "What is it?" he asked. "I don't know, but it looks like

she might need to talk," I said. "Okay, let me know if I can do

anything," Gil offered. "I'll leave my phone on if you need me," I

stated hanging up. I walked back to the car and opened the door

surprising Sara. As I put a strand of hair behind her ear, I asked "Sara

what's wrong?"

"That's the reason I left San Francisco," Sara said sobbing. "What?"

I questioned. "I found out that she was cheating on me," Sara said

completely breaking down. "I'm sorry," I said pulling her into a hug.

"When Grissom called, I jumped at the chance for a change of scenery,"

Sara said regaining a little composure.

"I know how that feels because I caught Eddie cheating, but luckily I

had Lindsay to keep my mind off of it. I'm sorry you had to go through

it alone, but Linds and I are here now," I said starting to tear up.

"I still can't believe that Willow cheated on me. We dated for three

years," she said. "Wait a second, Willow, Sara are you a lesbian?" I

asked. "No actually I'm Bi," Sara answered.

Sara saw the shock on my face and asked, "Catherine are you freaked?"

"What, No," I answered trying to process everything, "Sara it doesn't

matter what your sexuality is. It makes you who you are."

"I think I finally figured you out. Between your childhood and last

relationship, it's no wonder you have love and trust issues. Which

explains why you like to work by yourself," I said stroking Sara's hair.

"Shouldn't we be getting back to the lab?" she asked. "No I called

Gil before getting in the car. I told him you looked like you needed to

talk some things out. Don't worry when we get back, I'll tell him

everything is fine now," I answered touching her shoulder.

The drive back to the lab was quiet which was probably a good thing.

The issues Sara and I talked through were intense. I hope she gets her

bearings before getting back. When we arrived, I told Sara to get her

paperwork, and we would do it in my office.

"So, this is where you two are hiding," Nick said popping his head

in, "Hey are we still on for that thank you breakfast." "I don't know

Nick," I said trying to access Sara's mood. "No it's okay Catherine,

breakfast with friends is just what I need," Sara said smiling. "Why

what happened?" Warrick asked entering the room. "I'll tell you guys at

breakfast," Sara explained.

We drove to the diner and picked a booth in the back. "What's with

the cryptic?" Nick asked. Sara explained the reasons why she takes abuse

cases hard. She even told that she was bi-sexual. Nick and Warrick sat

across the table looking shocked.

"I'm sorry," Nick said reaching his hands across to hold Sara's. "Yea

we call ourselves CSIs, and we didn't see the signs," Warrick said

apologetic. "Guys don't worry about it. I talked it out with Catherine,

and I feel I can start to trust people again," Sara said with a beaming

smile.

Sara paid the bill, and we walked to our cars. Sara had walked over

with Warrick and Nick and gave them both a hug. She walked back towards

the car with a big smile on her face. "What's with the smile?" I asked.

"I can't help it. I'm really happy," Sara replied.

We drove back home and decided to get some sleep before picking up

Lindsay. I didn't go to sleep right away. I wanted to make sure that

Sara fell asleep alright. I went to my room when I saw that she was

sleeping peacefully. My alarm went off at two. I got dressed and went to

wake up Sara.

"Sara, time to get up," I said nudging her shoulder. "Morning,

sorta," Sara said yawning and stretching out. "How did you sleep?" I

asked. "I think it's the best I've slept in years," she answered. I left

to let her get dressed. I went to the kitchen and poured us coffee.

"Here," I said handing her coffee. "Thank you, can I ask you a

question?" she inquired. "Sara you can ask me anything," I replied. "Why

did you watch me fall asleep?" she asked. "I'm sorry, I didn't know you

knew I was there. It's something I do with Linds to make sure she falls

asleep okay," I answered. "Thank you for caring Catherine," she said

giving me a hug.

We drove to the school talking about what we could do with Lindsay on

Saturday since we both had it off. When we arrived at her school, we

decided to wait outside the car for her.

"Mommy, Sara!" Lindsay yelled running towards us. She jumped into

Sara's arms and gave her a hug. "Lindsay, why didn't you give your mom a

hug first?" Sara asked still holding my daughter. "Mommy normally gets

my first hug, and I thought you could use it more," Linds said with her

arms around Sara's neck. "Thank you sweetie," Sara said starting to tear

up. Lindsay leaned over and gave me a hug. I let Sara put her in the

car.

I had Sara help Lindsay with her homework while I made us all a

snack. "So sweetie, what did you do at school today?" I asked bringing

the meat and cheese tray. "My teacher said we had to write a paper about

who our hero is. I raised my hand, and my teacher came over. I told her

I had two heroes and couldn't decide which to choose. She told me I

could write half about each," Lindsay explained. "So who are they

honey?" I asked knowing who they were, but I wanted Sara to hear her say

it. "It's you and Sara, mommy," she answered as I noticed Sara started

to cry as she got up from the table.

"Mommy did I do something wrong?" Lindsay asked looking worried. "No

baby you didn't, why don't you go ask Sara," I said as she got up from

the table. I watched from the kitchen trying not to intrude. "Sara did I

say something wrong?" Lindsay asked. "No sweetie, it's just that I'm

getting used to people care about me," Sara said pulling Lindsay onto

her lap. "Sara, I do more than care about you, I love you," Lindsay said

which caused Sara to start crying again. I couldn't help crying too when

I heard what my daughter said.

I asked Sara if she could keep an eye on Lindsay while I went to the

store. When I got back, Sara and Lindsay had fallen asleep on her

recliner with Linds curled up on Sara's lap. I brushed a strand of hair

out of her eye and kissed her on the forehead. I covered them up in the

Scooby-Doo blanket that Sara bought for Lindsay.

I went to the kitchen to cut the vegetables for the salad that was

going with the spaghetti. After starting the sauce, I went to look in on

Sara and Lindsay. What I saw made me smile. Sara was watching Lindsay

sleep while stroking her hair. I set the table and went into the living

room to get the girls.

"Mommy why didn't you wake us up? We could have helped," Lindsay

asked. "It wasn't that difficult, plus you two looked peaceful. I am

worried that if you keep falling asleep on Sara that I'm going to have

to buy you a Sara shaped bed," I said trying not to laugh. "Yea I hear

they're real expensive," Sara said keeping up the joke.

Nancy showed up while Sara and I finished cleaning up. She needed to

pick up Lindsay early because they were going to see my mom. Nancy,

Sara, and I sat on the couch talking while Lindsay was getting her stuff

ready. She walked up to the couch and gave Sara and I hugs before

leaving.

We left for work a little early in case Warrick or Nick wanted to

talk to Sara. We grabbed some coffee and went to my office to relax

until everyone else showed up. Someone knocked on my door, I went to see

who it was. It was Eddie.

"Can I talk to you, Cat?" he asked making me cringe because I hate

that nickname. "Okay," I said winking at Sara telling her it will be

alright. "Why won't you let me see my daughter?" he yelled. "Hey, I

don't stop you from seeing your daughter, you're never around," I said.

I started to walk away, but he grabbed and slammed me up against the

wall. "We're not done," he said angrily.

I didn't see Sara come out my office. "Yes I do believe you are,"

Sara said trying to pull Eddie's hands off me. "Get off lady," Eddie

said shoving Sara. Sara already off balance hit the floor and her head

hit with a dull thud. Warrick yelled,"Hey," as he and Nick ran down the

hall. He pulled Eddie off me and restrained him. "Sara!" I yelled

running to her prone body. "Come on sweetie, wake up," I

said while stroking her head. "I called for an ambulance," Nick said.

"What the hell happened?" Gil said coming around the corner. "Eddie

shoved Sara after she tried to get him to let go of Catherine," Warrick

explained. "Get him out of here," Gil said coming to check on Sara.

"What the hell was Eddie doing here?" Gil asked glaring at me. "Can

we talk about this later. Sara is more important," I said trying to get

Grissom to back off. "Fine, when the paramedics get here you ride with

Sara," he said angrily. As they were tending to Sara, I was silently

praying for her safety. I followed behind as they took Sara to the

ambulance.

"Did either of you know why Eddie was here?" Gil asked. "No, all we

saw coming around the corner was Eddie had Catherine pinned against the

wall, and then he shoved Sara," Warrick explained as Nick was nodding in

agreement. He went to interrogation to find out from Eddie. "Why were

you in the lab?" Gil asked Eddie. "I came to find out why Cat hasn't let

me see Lindsay," he answered. "Thank you, oh by the way, Eddie you are

being charged with assault," Gil said leaving.

I held and stroked Sara's hand on the way to the hospital hoping she

would open her eyes. "Miss Willows, we're here," the paramedic said. I

had to sit in the waiting room while the doctors assess what is going

with Sara. I suddenly realized that I needed to call Nancy. "Nancy, I

need you to take care of Lindsay for awhile," I said trying to stay

calm. "Why, what happened?" she asked. I explained to her the whole

story. "Do you want me to bring her by after school?" Nancy asked. "Yea,

but don't tell her about her dad. She should hear it from me." I told

her.

After hanging up the phone rang, "Willows," I answered.

"Catherine, any news?" Gil asked.

"No, not yet."

"I called to tell you that you're suspended pending an

investigation."

"On what grounds?"

"I found out that Eddie was in the lab because of something you did,

and Sara was hurt because of it."

"Whatever, I'll call when I have news," I said hanging up.

"Miss Willows," the doctor said. "What's wrong with her?" I asked

trying not to cry. "All of her vitals are good, but we will know more

after the MRI," he explained. "When can I see her?" I inquired. "Not

until we get her into a room which should be shortly after the MRI," he

said as I nodded.

I went to sit back down, but Warrick and Nick walked in. "Any news?"

Nick asked. "No, but I found out I'm suspended," I answered. "Why?"

Warrick asked. "Gil found why Eddie was in the lab, and he suspended

me," I answered. "I'm here to see Sara Sidle," the lady at the desk

said. "Name?" the nurse asked. "Willow Summers," she answered. "What the

hell?" I said walking towards the woman.

"What the hell do you think you are doing here?" I said grabbing

Willow by the shoulder. "Back off bitch," she said pushing me off.

"Whoa, slow down ladies," Nick said trying to prevent a situation. "I

asked you a question," I said getting pissed. "I'm Willow Summers,

Sara's girlfriend," she answered. "Ex-girlfriend, you cheating bitch," I

said clenching my fists. "Where are you getting your information?" she

asked. "From Sara, yesterday," I answered.

"What are you Sara's new girlfriend, a little old for her aren't

you?" she said asking to get punched. "I think you should leave before I

do something I'll regret," I said trying to be the bigger person. "The

hospital called me because I'm her emergency contact," she said. "Mere

oversight, she hasn't change it yet, now leave!" I yelled pointing at

the door.

"I think she would really like to see me," she said smirking at me.

"I don't think so. If you don't leave I will make you leave," I said

walking towards her. "Bring it on bitch," she said shoving me. "That's

enough," the nurse behind the counter said, "If you two don't knock it

off, you both are leaving." Nick pulling me towards the chairs,

"Catherine, sit down."

"Nick, that bitch is part of the reason Sara is the way she is," I

said still pissed. "I realize that, but getting kicked out of the

hospital isn't going to help Sara," Warrick said putting his hand on my

shoulder trying to calm me down. "Fine, but she is not going to see

Sara," I said sitting down. I heard the door open and saw the doctor

come out.

"Miss Willows," the doctor said, "Sara has a mild concussion due to

the fall, but she should wake up soon." "Can I see her?" I asked. "As

soon as we get her set up in her room," he said. "What about ..." Willow

started to say. "I don't think so, you can have the doctors update her

progress, but you will not see her," I said getting pissed again. "You

can see her now," the doctor said.

I walked into the room, and Sara was hooked up to machines keeping

track of her vitals. I sat down in the chair beside her bed. "Come on

Sara, you have to wake up," I said kissing her hand. I must have fallen

asleep because I wake up to someone stroking my hair. I look up and see

that Sara is smiling at me.

"Morning, sleepyhead," she said smiling. "You had me scared you

know," I said smiling back, "I'm sorry I did this to you." "You didn't

cause this, Eddie did, I don't blame you," Sara said wiping a tear away.

" I almost forgot the best part, I am suspended, and Willow is in the

waiting room," I told her trying not to cry. "What, why?" she said

looking pissed.

"Well Grissom suspended me because he said I was the reason you were

injured,"I started to explain. "I don't know why he blames you," Sara

said. "It's because he loves you," I said. "Well I will take care of

that problem later. Now why in the hell is Willow in the waiting room?"

she asked.

"She is listed as your emergency contact," I answered. "Damn it, I

knew I forgot something. How did you handle it?" Sara asked. "Well for

starters, if Warrick and Nick weren't there I would have kicked her

ass," I said hoping Sara wouldn't freak. "What did she say?" she asked

starting to get angry. "Well when I asked what she thought she was doing

here, she shoved me and told me to back off," I said leaving out the

colorful language. "What else?" she said sensing there was more.

"Then she asked if I was your new girlfriend which came with an

insult about my age," I explained. "Did you at least punch her?" Sara

said with a smile. "No, but she kept asking for it," I answered. I told

her the rest of the story even the part where we almost got tossed.

"Thank you for defending me, but we need to take care of this," she said

motioning me to go get Willow.

I went to the waiting room to get her, but then she saw I was

following. "Where the hell do you think you're going?" Willow asked. "I

told you that we needed to talk," I said smiling. When we entered Sara's

room, I took my seat next to Sara and took hold of her hand.

"Willow thank you for coming, but you don't belong here. I have

people who love and care for me now. I forgive you, but I think you

should leave," Sara said smiling holding my hand as Willow left. "Thank

you," I said trying not to cry as I kissed her cheek. "Oh I almost

forgot, what about Eddie and Lindsay?" she asked. "Eddie was arrested

and charged with assault. Nancy is taking care of Lindsay while I'm

taking care of you, but she is bringing Lindsay by after school," I said

hoping she wouldn't freak out.

"What are we going to tell her?" Sara asked looking concerned. "I'm

actually considering the truth," I said. "You really should go home and

get some sleep before Lindsay gets here," she said. "I'm not that tired.

Don't you remember the nap I had when you woke me up," I said trying to

lighten the mood. "I can't say I didn't try," she said yawning. The

doctor told me that she might sleep, but they would have to wake her

every couple of hours.

I woke up to someone stroking my hair again. "I told you to go home

and get some sleep," Sara said smiling. "I don't know, I could get used

to waking up like this," I said seeing that my comment made her blush.

Just then, Lindsay walked in with a nurse. "Lindsay, we need to talk to

you about your dad," I said hoping this wouldn't go badly.

"What is it mommy?" Lindsay asked looking worried. "Here why don't

you sit in bed with Sara," I said picking her up. I told her that her

dad came to the lab, pushed Sara down, and got arrested. "But why did

daddy shove Sara?" she asked. "He was hurting your mom, and I tried to

make him stop," Sara explained. I told Linds that he was mad because he

never gets to see her. "I want to talk to him," Lindsay said hoping I

would let her.

"Hey guys," Warrick and Nick said popping in. "Sara, how are you?"

Nick asked. "Better now that I have my two favorite nurses," Sara