BECKY'S (HERBARD)FAN FICTION & BOOK PAGE

Natalia meets up with her ex sister-in-law. While sparks fly? Read the newest fan fiction story by Becky

Family Ties

By Becky

If youve read any type of fan fiction, you know the drill. I dont own them, Ive just borrowed them for my fantasys.

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Natalia you cant marry Nick, Annie said as she spun around and came face to face with Natalia Boa Vista.

Dont be silly Annie, of course Im going to marry Nick and be a part of the Townsend family, Natalia laughed.

Annie took a deep breath and sighed. But you dont understand Nat, hes not right for you, the young woman pleaded.

If I didnt know better Id say youre jealous, Natalia responded.

Annie tried to reason with her soon to be sister-in-law, but to no avail. Six weeks later they were married and Annie distanced herself from her brother and his new wife. At first Natalia couldnt understand why Annie wouldnt come over and hang out. Before she had married Nick, they had done everything together. Theyd meet for lunch, go to the movies, or just spend time together. It all ended abruptly after the wedding. Natalia felt hurt by her new sister-in-laws actions, she thought their relationship had been stronger. During the months before the wedding sometimes it had felt to Natalia that she was closer to Annie than Nick. She tried to call Annie, but the younger woman would never return her calls. With a sadness in her heart Natalia finally left her sister-in-law alone.

It wasnt until John Townsend died suddenly from a heart attack that the two womens paths crossed. Annie was forced to sit next to Natalia at the funeral. The tension was unbearable as each woman sat lost in thought. After the service, Natalia tried to pull Annie aside and talk to her, but before she could find her sister-in-law she was gone.

Not longer after Johns death the hitting started. At first Natalia thought it was the pressure of Nick having lost his father but it continued long after John Townsend died.

Hey girlfriend, where are you? Detective Calleigh Duquesne asked her friend and co-worker Natalia Boa Vista. The Officer didnt respond to her friend right away. Calleigh became concerned as she looked at the expression on Natalia face. It was a mix of sadness and sorrow. Natalia, are you okay?

What? Yeah, fine, why do you ask? the Officer asked as she looked at her surroundings.

You were far, far away, my friend, Calleigh joked.

Sorry, I was just thinking about someone I used to know, I guess I got caught up in it, Natalia half laughed.

Well we have to roll a call just came in, an elderly man found in his home after a well being check.

Lets go, Natalia said with forced lightness.

A few minutes later the two women were crossing under the bright yellow police tape that had been put up to secure the crime scene. Meeting the two was Sgt. Frank Tripp.

Hey, Frank what have we got? Calleigh asked her old friend.

Next door neighbor said the victims car hasnt moved for a few days, and when he went over to check on the neighbor, there wasnt any answer at the door, and the mail had been piling up. He called us.

Who found the body? Natalia asked as she scribbled some notes on her pad.

Frank pointed to a young officer standing by the ambulance that had been dispatched. Calleigh studied the young man and knew from his nervousness that this had probably been his first dead body. Stan Wahl, been on the force about a year.

Were going to need to speak to him, Natalia said as she entered the house with Calleigh.

The house was a typical one story Florida ranch house. Open floor plan, kitchen in the back of the house, which had a sliding class door which lead to an in ground pool. There were two good-sized bedrooms off the living room. Officer Wahl had found the man in the hallway between the two bedrooms.

He was face down in the hallway, a broken cut glass vase by his side. They didnt need Dr. Alex Woods to tell them the mans head had been bashed in by the broken vase.

Raleigh put her crime scene kit down on the floor next to the prone man. She opened the kit and handed Natalia rubber gloves. They took pictures of the man before rolling him onto his back. He was elderly, Calleigh guessed him to be anywhere from 70-82. She checked his pockets and pulled out a wallet, which she opened. A drivers license indicated his name was Norman Grady, born November 1934.

Whats that? Natalia asked, pointing to the mans clenched fist.

Calleigh looked down at the mans closed fist and could see a piece of paper sticking out. She pried open his hand and removed the crumpled piece of paper. Slowly she opened the paper.

What does it say? Natalia asked as she took pictures of the mans face.

It has a name and address of a female here in Miami, the older woman said as she handed the paper to Natalia to process.

Natalia looked at the crumbled piece of paper and gasped when she read the name.

What is it Natalia? Do you know this person?

Yes, came the shocked reply, shes Nicks sister.

Youre sister-in-law?

Ex sister-in-law, Natalia corrected.

Looks like were going to have to pay your ex sister-in-law a visit, and see what she knows about Mr. Grady.

Calleigh, you dont think she killed him?

I dont know. Lets get the scene processed and then Ill go talk to her.

I want to go with you.

Sorry kid, if she has anything to do with this, you know you cant be on the case. Look we have to be careful. How about you go interview that nice young officer and see what he has to offer.

Natalia nodded and headed out of the house to speak to the officer.

An hour later, Natalia was back in her lab nervously pacing as Calleigh headed to Annie Townsends condo.

The high rise condo overlooked the bay. Calleigh had passed it a hundred times, always wondering what the view had to offer. Now she was getting her chance. After inspecting the mailboxes she found Annies apartment number and headed up on the elevator. A minute later she was standing at the front door. Just as she was about to tap the door, it flew open. Standing in front of the detective was a late thirty something woman with dark drown wavy hair, piercing green eyes. The woman was holding a laundry basket while trying to juggle the door.

Can I help you? the woman asked Calleigh.

Calleigh took out her badge and showed it to the woman. Im Detective Calleigh Duquesne. Im looking for Annie Townsend.

Im Annie, the woman responded suspiciously. Is something wrong?

Can we go into your place and talk?

The woman nodded and motioned for the pretty detective to come inside. The small condo had a breathtaking view of the bay. Calleigh doubted she would ever tire of taking in such a view.

I work with Natalia, Calleigh started.

Is she okay, came the panicked voice.

Yes, shes fine, Im sorry, thats not why Im here, I didnt mean to mislead you. Calleigh noticed the woman immediately relax.

Then why are you here? Annie questioned, as she motioned for Calleigh to have a seat on the large overstuffed couch.

Natalia and I were called to a crime scene, and the gentleman we found had a crumpled piece of paper in his hand with your name on it.

With my name? Who was it?

An elderly man by the name of Norman Grady. Do you know him, Miss Townsend?

Annie quickly sat down on the nearest chair. Mr. Norman? Hes dead? she asked the shock registering and coursing through her body. I just saw him on Sunday. What happened?

Thats what wed like to know, Calleigh answered. Would you mind coming with me so we can get a statement.

You dont think I killed him? Annie asked defensively.

Miss Townsend youre free to come in on your own, youre not being arrested for anything. Wed just like to speak to you, and find out what you know about Norman Grady.

Annie relaxed a little. Will Natalia be there?

I can have her in the room while youre questioned if you like, Calleigh answered.

No, no, I dont want. I was just asking if she would be there.

An hour later Calleigh had Annie in the conference room ready to find out what she knew about Norman Grady.

How long have you know Norman Grady?

About two years.

How did you meet? Calleigh asked as she wrote down Annies answers.

Annie laughed. We met at a card show.

A card show?

Yeah, a baseball card show.

So you collect baseball cards? Calleigh asked.

I know what youre thinking, a woman who collects sports cards. Well I do, have been since I was a kid. My dad started me, and well its turned into a life long hobby.

Do you have a big collection? Calleigh asked trying to ease the woman into conversation.

I sure do. Last count I had over 160,000 cards in my collection.

Calleigh smiled at the woman. She knew she needed to be objective, but there was something about this woman she couldnt help but like. The few times she had smiled her green eyes twinkled. She seemed a stark contrast to her late brother Nick.

Well, thats a lot of cards, Miss Townsend. So you met Mr. Grady at one of your card shows. How exactly did you meet?

I had seen a few other times at the shows, but never really paid any attention to him. We both came and did our own thing. But the day I met him, we had both left at the same time, and these two kids on skateboards came barreling down the hallway and one of them crashed right into Mr. Norman, sent him onto the floor and his cards went flying all over the place. The kids never stopped. I ran over, helped Mr. Norman up and then helped him pick up his cards. He bought me a cup of coffee as thanks. From then on, we would meet at the shows which are twice a month. Sometimes wed share a cup of coffee afterwards other times wed grab a bite to eat.

Did you ever go to his home?

No, I dont even know where he lived. He never talked about himself very much. The only thing he ever mentioned was his wife had died a few years back and theyd never had children.

Do you know of anyone who may have wanted to harm him?

Just as Annie was about to answer she looked up and saw Natalia walk by the room. The Level I Officer stopped and looked at Annie before walking away. Annie looked longingly at her sister-in-law, a look that didnt go unnoticed by Calleigh.

Miss Townsend, do you know of anyone who might have wanted to hurt Mr. Grady? Calleigh asked again.

Im sorry, no I have no idea. When we were together we only discussed cards. He helped me get started with my online business, so I would seek his advice.

Did he give you money to start your business?

Oh no, nothing like that. He just offered business advice. He wrote up a business plan for me, and I followed his suggestions and before long I had an online business selling trading cards all over the world.

And you actually make money? Calleigh asked.

Last year I cleared 50 thousand dollars. I couldnt have done it without Mr. Norman, the younger woman said sadly. And about two months ago I opened up a small shop. The first week it opened he was there every day.

I noticed you call him Mr. Norman. Why is that?

Well we had gotten friendly to the point where Mr. Grady sounded too formal, but in some ways, he felt like a parent but Norman was too casual, so I called him Mr. Norman. I think he kind of liked it. Miss Duquesne, youll find out who did this to him, wont you?

Thats why were here Miss Townsend. To find out what happened and put the person behind bars.

Annie could feel Natalias presence and when she looked up the Officer was walking by the conference room again. Calleigh took a deep breath and decided to go out on a limb.

Does Natalia know how you feel about her?

What? No, I, no. What do you mean, Miss Duquesne?

She doesnt know youre in love with her?

No, and please you cant tell her. This thing with Mr. Grady doesnt have anything to do with how I feel about Natalia? Annie shot back.

Youre right, one doesnt have anything to do with the other.

Annie looked wistful as she watched her ex sister-in-law walk away and then stop to talk to a couple of male officers. The trio laughed and then Natalia looked over her shoulder at Annie and walked away out of sight.

Have you loved her long? Calleigh asked, not meaning to pry but wanting to know what had happened.

I think I fell in love with her the minute we met. We just hit it off. Finished each others sentences, would laugh at the same thing. But then she started dating my brother. I knew he wouldnt be any good for her. I told her not to marry Nick, but she wouldnt listen. So I quietly slipped out of her life.

But you knew what your brother was like?

You see, while my father was alive, he was able to keep Nick in line. It wasnt until after he died that Nick began being abusive. By then I had moved up to Orlando to teach and had lost contact with Nick and Natalia.

What brought you back to Miami?

I had just turned forty, had put in twenty years teaching, enough for my retirement, decided to move back home and do something different. Thats when I met Mr. Grady and I started on my new career.

Have you been in touch with Natalia?

No, today was the first time Ive seen her in eight years.

Well, Miss Townsend, Ill ask you to please not leave town in case we have some more questions.

Of course not, Ill be here if you need me.

I appreciate youre taking the time to speak to me.

Annie smiled and laughed at the pretty detective. Well, Detective, its not like I had a choice.

No, but you were nice about it. Calleigh opened the door and motioned for an officer who came over. Officer Grand will take you home.

The officer nodded and motioned for Annie to follow. The two walked by Natalia. Annie had all she could do to not take the woman in her arms and touch her.

Annie, how are you?

Instead of answering, which she knew would be her downfall, the woman kept walking away from the love of her life. Natalia stood dejected, unsure of why her old friend and sister-in-law no longer wanted to speak to her.

Calleigh came up behind her friend and put a friendly hand on her shoulder. You okay?

Yeah, I just dont know why she wont speak to me.

Come on, Ill buy you a cup of coffee, and you can speak to me, the blonde woman drawled.

And after that, she just stopped speaking to me. She wouldnt come over and hang out, and she wouldnt go to the wedding, Natalia said as she put her cup of watery coffee down. Ugh, thats such bad coffee, the officer laughed.

Well, maybe she was jealous, Calleigh offered knowing full well the real reason behind Annies abrupt departure.

I cant believe she would have been that jealous of my marrying Nick.

Oh honey, you need to pay better attention to your surroundings, Calleigh drawled as she stood up and threw away her coffee cup.

What does that mean? Natalia asked as she stood up and did the same.

Before Calleigh could answer, Horatio entered the break room.

Ladies, he said as he removed his sunglasses. I understand, Miss Boa Vista that youre sister-in-law is somehow involved in your case.

Ex sister-in-law, Natalia corrected her boss.

I stand corrected, Miss Boa Vista, your ex sister-in-law.

Were not sure how involved she is, Calleigh interjected.

Perhaps this will help, Horatio said as he handed Calleigh a packet of papers.

She thumbed through the packet and whistled. Well Ill be. Certainly looks like motive for murder, Calleigh said as she handed the packet back to Horatio.

What is it? Natalia asked.

It would appear Miss Boa Vista, that our elderly victim left your ex sister-in-law his entire estate, lock, stock and barrel.

The color drained from Natalias face. I cant believe that Annie would knowingly hurt anyone, thats just not in her nature.

Horatio looked at his young Officer and inwardly smiled. That was one of things he liked about his officer, her loyalty to friends and family.

You understand Miss Boa Vista, the seasoned Lieutenant softly started, you will have to excuse yourself from this case.

But sir, I can be objective.

I know you can, but we want to make sure your ex sister-in-laws innocence is proven and not questioned because of her past relationship to you.

Natalia knew her boss was right. If Annie was going to be proven innocent, then she needed to let her friends do their jobs.

Annie entered her condo. The nice officer walked her all the way to her front door, and then with a nod left. She walked over to the large sliding glass door and looked out over the bay. She had been lucky to have bought the condo a year ago from its owner. The price had more than been right, and she appreciated every beautiful sight.

She sat down on her overstuffed couch and thought not of poor Mr. Grady but of how beautiful Natalia looked. The sight of her ex sister-in-law took her breath away. After all she had been through with Nick she was still so beautiful.

A knock on the door made Annie jump as she got up from the couch and peered out door through the peep hole. The last person she expected to see standing there was Natalia. Annie crouched down, not sure why because she knew that Natalia couldnt see in through the peep hole.

Annie I know youre in there, Officer Grand just dropped you off. Please, may I come in? the woman pleaded.

Slowly Annie stood up and took the safety lock off the door, and opened it.

What do you want, Natalia? the woman asked tersely.

Natalia looked tenderly at Annie. I came to see if youre okay, she said softly.

Annie felt the walls starting to crumble as she watched the love of her life enter her condo. Natalia went over to the sliding glass door and looked out over the bay.

Oh, Annie, what a beautiful view! How long have you lived here?

About a year. I got it for a steal. There isnt a morning I wake up that Im not grateful for this place. Its much bigger than I need for one person, but I love the view. You would especially love the sunsets, Annie stopped quickly.

For a moment both women forgot their rift and started back into their old comfortable way with one another.

So, are you okay? Natalia asked for a second time.

Just ducky, the woman responded sarcastically. Lets see, this nice old man I know is murdered and Im looking like the prime suspect.

No one has accused you of his murder. They needed to speak to you because he had your name on a piece of paper.

I sure hope your friends are competent.

I trust them with my life, Natalia responded.

Another knock at the door brought Annie to the peephole. She quickly opened the door to find Calleigh standing there.

Miss Townsend, do you mind if I ask you a few more questions? the detective said as she walked into the condo. She looked over at Natalia who was seated on the couch.

Hey Calleigh, what brings you here?

Calleigh hated to be the bad guy but she needed to make sure nothing was compromised during this investigation.

Im sorry sweetie, you cant stay while I speak to Annie.

Look Calleigh, I wont say a word I promise.

Calleigh looked at Annie for approval. Its fine, I dont care. Annie motioned for Calleigh to take a seat.

Annie, when we spoke earlier you didnt mention to me that Norman Grady sold you this condo.

What? No, he didnt sell me this condo. I bought it from a holding company. Ill show you. Annie went over to her desk, opened a drawer and pulled out a packet of papers. She thumbed through the packet and pulled out a single sheet and handed it to Calleigh. The woman read the paper, and smiled when she looked up at Annie.

What? Natalia asked.

Hush, you promised not to speak, Calleigh joked with her co-worker.

Oh come on Calleigh, Natalia pleaded.

Annie is right, the seller listed on the paperwork is a holding company. How did you come to buy this place?

I had to move out of my old apartment. They were taken by eminent domain to make room for a parking garage near the hospital. I found plenty of places, but they were either too expensive or the ones I could afford werent in the nicest parts of the city. Mr. Norman suggested I go to realtor and gave me the name of a nice woman who helped me find this place. At the time she said it was a steal and I would never regret buying the place.

Do you remember her name? Calleigh asked.

Her card should be in the folder. Annie looked through the folder and removed a business card which she handed to Calleigh.

Calleigh notated the womans name, address and phone number. She would follow up with that later.

Annie, the other thing I want to talk to you about, is Mr. Gradys will. Did you know he left you his entire estate?

Annie looked at Natalia. No, I didnt know.

And by the looks of things, it was a sizeable estate.

I know you dont have any reason to believe me, but Im telling the truth I dont know anything about Mr. Normans private life, his finances, or anything. The only thing we had in common were the cards.

Well it looks like he left his entire collection of cards, valued at over 5 million dollars, to you.

Annie felt the color drain from her face. She was glad she was sitting when the detective hit her with this latest bit of information.

So now this really makes me look like a suspect.

Annie, I dont think for a minute you did anything to hurt Mr. Grady, Natalia said to Annie.

Annie looked at Natalia and half smiled. Its not you I have to convince, she said as she looked over at Calleigh.

Inwardly Calleigh felt conflicted, but she knew she needed to maintain objectivity on this case. If they were going to prove Annie Townsend innocent, then she was going to have to investigate this case by the book. But right now it wasnt looking too convincing for the woman.

Calleigh stood up to leave, and then turned to Natalia. Nat, Horatio wanted me to tell you, he approved your time off request.

Natalia nodded to her friend and co-worker. Thanks. Keep me in the loop? She asked her friend.

As much as I can. Annie, Ill be in touch.

I know, dont leave town, the state, etc.

Calleigh laughed. In spite of all that was happening to Annie, she still seemed to have a sense of humor. Calleigh was out the door once again leaving the two women alone.

So, youre heading off somewhere on vacation, Annie asked, trying to make light conversation with Natalia.

No, I requested time off because they wont let me help on this case, and I thought maybe you could use a friend right about now.

Look Natalia, I dont want you missing work on my account, and I dont need a friend to help get me through this. Ill be fine, I always am.

Annie, whether or not Im here helping you, it wont matter, my boss doesnt want me working on any active case while this one is going on. He doesnt want any case compromised by having someone come back and say I was too preoccupied with your case to pay attention to another case.

Sorry, that Ive made a mess of things for you. It certainly wasnt my intention, Annie said sarcastically.

Annie, just stop it, the Officer said in a raised voice. For once in your life would you just let someone who cares about you, help you?

Look Natalia, Im not trying to be difficult, I just dont want to bother you with my problems.

Natalia sighed as she looked at her ex sister-in-law. Annie, youre not bothering me. I want to help, I want to be here for you. Look, no matter what happened between Nick and myself, Ive always cared about you. We were best friends, and I dont know what I did to mess that up, but please let me help you now.

Annie felt her heart lurch. She could hear the hurt in Natalias voice. She was right she had just walked away from their friendship. She could never tell Natalia how she felt about her, but maybe they could start re-building their friendship once this mess with Mr. Norman was resolved.

Natalia looked at Annie and smiled. I really missed you, you know.

Im sorry I wasnt there when everything went sour with Nick. Maybe if I had been, things would have turned out differently, the woman said sadly.

No, Annie, we cant look back and do what if. What happened with Nick happened. Ive come to learn he had a lot of demons, and whatever he did to me, wasnt because of anything I did, it was because he was sick.

Annie looked at Natalia and wanted to take the beauty into her arms and hold her. Every time she thought about Nick abusing his wife it made her sick. She was glad her younger brother had been killed, glad because he could never hurt Natalia or any other woman again.

I know, but Im glad he cant hurt you any longer.

Me too, the choked words came out. So, tell me about this online business of yours.

Tell you, Ill show you. Annie led Natalia down the hallway to the one of the three spare bedrooms she had. She opened the door and pushed Natalia into the room. The large room was filled with shelves and hundreds of boxes of trading cards.

Annie, collect many cards? Natalia laughed as she took in the room and its contents.

Never stopped collecting. And now I have a successful online business and a couple of months ago I opened a store front thats only open on weekends.

Hows that going?

Would you believe I actually have regulars already? Of course theyre mostly kids, but I have a couple of men who seem to be hardcore collectors. Roger comes in most every weekend and Allan comes in every so often. Roger is probably my best customer.

It seems such a stark contrast to a life spent teaching.

I loved teaching, and did it for over twenty years, but I was starting to burn out and I knew it was time to change gears. I dont know, maybe it was a mid life crisis, but with poor Mr. Normans guidance he helped me make it happen.

Natalia, inwardly hoped that Calleigh could get to the bottom of this case and free Annie from suspicion. But right now it wasnt looking so good.

Calling double checked the address on the card. She found the realtors office and walked in. This was no little realty office, this was apparently by the looks of the foyer a large scale real estate operation. Calleigh was met by a receptionist. She showed the young woman her badge and requested a meeting with a Rita Branyan. Told to wait, the woman dialed a number and spoke to someone. Seconds later a young man greet Calleigh.

Hi, Im Scott Moore. Youre looking for Rita?

Yes, is she in?

Yes maam shell see you right away.

The young man led Calleigh up a spiral staircase, and to a large office at the head of the stars. The plush carpet felt soft even with shoes on. Calleigh wondered what it would be like to take off her shoes and run barefoot on the carpet.

Shes right in here.

Calleigh entered the large office and was met by a pleasant looking older woman who introduced herself as Rita Branyan. She motioned for Calleigh to have a seat.

What can I do for you detective?

Im investigating the murder of Norman Grady.

Calleigh watched as the color drained from the older womans face.

I take it you know him?

Know him? Why yes he was one of my oldest and dearest friends. What happened? The woman asked visibly upset.

He was murdered in his home sometime last night.

Rita put her face in her hands and tried to shake off the sobs. Im sorry detective this is all such a shock. Norman of all people. Who would want to hurt Norman? He was one of the sweetest, kindest men Ive ever known. He and my husband were second cousins. Norman helped me start this company. A company that has become a Fortune 500 company thanks to his business acumen.

What can you tell me about Annie Townsend?

Ann Townsend? I remember the name but, oh wait of course Annie. A nice girl. Norman, sold her his high rise condo near the bay. He sold it to her for dirt cheap, didnt want her to know he was the seller. Said she had done so much to help him after Martha died. Went to his lawyer and had him set up a holding company so the sale would go through and Annie wouldnt be the wiser.

Do you think she knew of his wealth?

I cant say for certain, but my guess would be no. Norman always downplayed his wealth. Never lived in a fancy home, never drove fancy cars. Do you think Annie had something to do with Normans death?

I dont know Mrs. Branyan, were just trying to get all of the facts sorted out.

A half hour later Calleigh was no closer to discovering anything about Norman Grady. By all counts, Annie knew nothing of his wealth. Rita had filled in some blanks but other than that, Calleigh was no closer to solving Normans murder.

She headed back to the lab in the hopes that Eric had gotten some good fingerprints from the scene.

Hey Calleigh, Eric said as the beauty entered the lab.

Anything good from my crime scene?

Lots of good things, but if you mean any good fingerprints, no. I have a partial on a larger piece of glass, but so far nothing has come back from AFIS. Did you fingerprint, Natalias sister-in-law?

No, because up until now she hasnt been a real suspect, just a person of interest.

Shes never been arrested before, Eric said as he inspected a piece of broken glass.

Im heading down to see Alex, maybe shell have something conclusive.

Moments later Calleigh entered the Medical Examiners office. The kindly doctor was just taking off her rubber gloves when Calleigh arrived.

Hi baby doll.

Hey, Alex.

What do you have on our Mr. Grady?

Poor soul, blunt force trauma to the head. Probably died before he hit the ground. He was in amazing shape for his age. His heart and lungs looked like that of a 50 year-old man. He must have taken good care of himself.

All that hard work to stay healthy, and in one second it was all brought to an end by a cold hearted murderer.

The vase you found by his body was the murder weapon. I found shards of glass embedded in his head.

Calleigh shook her head in disgust as she looked at the elderly man. His features portrayed that of a kindly father or grandfather. The who was looking more and more like Annie Townsend.

Saturday morning found Annie opening the door to her card shop. She didnt really have the heart to open, but figured it would take her mind of her troubles. Natalia had called once since her visit to the condo. Annie had hoped for more contact but figured Natalia was probably busy with a boyfriend or friends.

She had only been open for around ten minutes when her first customer arrived. Roger, if anything he was a steady customer. His handsome chiseled face broke out into a smile as he made eye contact with Annie. His sandy blonde hair was still wet.

Hay Annie. Any new cards today?

Hi Roger, the woman smiled as she looked up into his smiling face. Have I got some cards for you.

A half hour later Roger walked out of the store after spending a few hundred dollars on cards. His arrival had been a brief respite from her troubles. The rest of the day was relatively quiet with people coming and going. It wasnt until Annie was ready to close that she received a surprise visitor. Natalia walked in.

Hi Annie, the officer said as she walked into the store and surveyed its contents. Tons of cards at home, tone of cards here. Youre like a card hoard.

For the first time in days Annie actually laughed out loud. I guess you could call me a card hoard. What brings you here to the shop? Is there anything wrong?

Nope. I just thought I would surprise you and take you to dinner, Natalia said through smiles.

I appreciate the offer, but I think Ill just go home. Annie felt herself retreating from the beauty that stood before her. It was one thing to accept Natalias help during this case, but another thing to go out and socialize. It would be too dangerous. Annie didnt want to risk having Natalia find out she felt for her ex sister-in-law.

Oh no you dont, youre going out to dinner with me, end of subject, the young officer said as she pushed her sister-in-law out the door.

Annie laughed as she locked the door and put the alarm on. Okay, then, where to?

Theres a great place by the bay, outdoor dining. Its very romantic at night.

Annie thought shed have a heart attack. The thought of sharing a romantic dinner with her ex sister-in-law was more than she could take. She knew that Natalia wasnt inferring that they share a romantic dinner together, only that the locale was romantic.

Lead the way, Annie croaked as she followed Natalia to her car.

Natalia was right the restaurant was indeed a very romantic spot. It sat on the edge of the bay and the outdoor dining was positioned in such a way that everyone could watch the boats go in and out. The evening was mild as the two sat and finished their meals. Annie could have sat across the table from Natalia all evening just to be able to look into her beautiful brown eyes.

So how was your day? Natalia asked as she sipped her glass of wine.

It was steady, although Roger, hes one of my best customers, he dropped a couple of hundred on cards this morning. Business is slowly picking up. Just hope Ill be around to watch it grow.

You will, Annie, you will.

Finally the evening was over and Natalia was taking Annie home. It truly had been a wonderful evening for Annie. If only it had been a date. But shed take it for it had been, dinner with an old friend.

Natalia walked Annie to her front door. She didnt want to part from her old friend. Ever since she had seen Annie in the conference room, she just couldnt get the women out of her mind. She was in every thought. She was all consumed by her ex sister-in-law and she knew it had nothing to do with the case.

She needed to talk to someone. Calleigh, shed call Calleigh.

Hey Calleigh, feel like company? Natalia said into the phone?

An hour later Natalia was sitting on Calleighs deck sipping a beer. I dont know whats going on Calleigh. It seems Im completely consumed by Annies case.

Calleigh shook her head. The two of you are as dense as wood.

What does that mean?

It means both of you need to pay better attention to each other.

Of course I care about her. After all she is my sister-in-law.

Ex sister-in-law.

Calleigh laughed to herself, but saw clearly for the first time the look on her co-workers face. Everything fell into place, Natalia was in love with Annie.

How long have you been in love with Annie? Calleigh asked with a serious tone.

Natalia just stared at her friend for a minute before answering. I think I fell in love with her the minute we met.

So why did you marry Nick?

I knew that Annie would never care for me the way I cared for her, so by marrying Nick it insured that Annie would be a part of my life. You see I was willing to have Annie in my life anyway I could, even if it was only as friends. But even that backfired. After I married Nick she moved to Orlando, and was out of my life.

Calleigh felt smack dab in the middle. In one respect this was a live case and Annie was their prime suspect, but on the other hand deep down she didnt think Annie was guilty. But she had also made a promise to Annie not to say anything to Natalia about her feelings. Before she had a chance to respond her cell phone rang.

Hey Eric. What have you got? Ill go interview her again. On my way. Calleigh clicked her phone off.

What is it? Natalia asked, concern written on her face.

Eric found that Mr. Grady had a nephew. Im going to go ask Annie if she ever heard him speak of a nephew.

Please can I come?

Okay, but you stay out of the way, Calleigh said sternly.

Natalia saluted her friend. Yes maam, staying out of the way.

The two women left and headed to Calleighs Hummer. Within minutes they were headed to Annies.

Are you thinking this nephew may be involved?

I dont know Natalia. He certainly could have motive if he thought his uncle was leaving him his entire estate. Hopefully Annie can tell us about Roger Weston.

Wait, what did you say his first name is? Natalia asked.

Roger, why?

Earlier when I was in Annies shop she mentioned she has a regular customer, his name is Roger.

Did she mention his last name?

No, she didnt. Im sure its just a coincidence.

Maybe, but lets not take any chances, the Detective said as she hit her blue lights and sirens and increased her speed.

Both women arrived at Annies condo. Calleigh knocked on the door. She tried the door, it was unlocked.

Does Annie usually leave her doors unlocked? Calleigh whispered.

No, if anything shes maniacal about locking her doors.

Both women drew their guns and slowly headed into the condo. They checked the kitchen and found it empty. Slowly they made their way down to the bedrooms and when they opened the door to the card room Natalia knew something had happened to Annie. Boxes of cards had been overturned and spilled out onto the floor. They inspected the other bedrooms and found them empty.

Im going to put an APB out on Annie.

Suddenly it dawned on Natalia. Calleigh, the store, Annies store.

Annie knew she needed to remain calm. Roger was over the top and she needed to keep him calm. When she opened the door, she expected Natalia, instead she found Roger standing there. It didnt register how he had found out where she lived. He barged his way into her condo and demanded to see her baseball cards. Roger meant business, he wasnt going to stay patient very long. Annie cringed as she watched him dump box after box on the floor. When he didnt find what he was looking for he demanded they go to her shop.

Once at the shop he started dumping cards out onto the floor.

Roger, maybe if you tell me what youre looking for I can help, Annie said softly.

He left you his cards, I want the card, he demanded. Id hate to have to hurt you, but I will to get what I want. I didnt hesitate hurting him, and I wont hesitate hurting you. I didnt come this far to have some stupid woman stand in my way.

Whats the card?

Wagner, the Honus Wagner card.

Im sorry Roger, I dont have it.

You have it, they told me he left you everything, he yelled as he grabbed her by the throat and shook her.

No, Roger you dont understand, they havent released his collection to me, because Im under suspicion for his murder. You killed your uncle, she said, suddenly making sense of everything that was happening.

He wouldnt give me any money. That one card will set me up for life. He wouldnt give me a dime. Instead he told me how wonderful you were and what a good friend you had been to him. Told me he was leaving you his entire estate and his entire card collection. That old fool was worth millions, and he wouldnt give me a dime.

Annie only hoped that the end would come swiftly once he figured out she was telling the truth and hadnt seen any of the cards. He was out of control, and there would only be one outcome. Her only hope was in his anger and frustration he wouldnt notice the security camera mounted on the ceiling.

Calleigh pulled into the parking lot at the strip mall. They were far enough away from the store so no one inside could see the two women as they slowly made their approach to the store. Using a pickup truck as camouflage they were able to see through the truck windows directly into the store.

Natalia gasped as she saw Roger put his hands around Annies neck.

Calleigh, Natalia called out.

I see. Backup is at least five minutes away and I dont think we have five minutes. You approach from the left side and Ill come in from the right. Natalia nodded as she quickly made her way to the left side of the store. She had her gun drawn ready to take down the man who was threatening her beloved.

Annie glanced up and thought she caught a glimpse of Calleigh running through the parking lot. She was right, Calleigh made eye contact with the woman and nodded her head. Annie wasnt quite sure what to do only that she needed to keep Roger turned away from the door.

Roger, maybe I can get in touch with your uncles and have them released the cards to me, and then you can take whatever you want, Annie suggested. She kept moving so she was facing the outside, he turned and faced her. Shock registered as he drew a small pistol from his pocket and pointed it at her head.

Great idea, now lets go.

Before Annie knew what was happening, Calleigh and Natalia where converging into the store. Slowly everything went black as Annie heard gunshots, and slumped to the floor in a heap.

Annie, Natalia yelled as she watched Roger shoot Annie in the shoulder.

Before he had a chance to react, Roger was dead in his tracks. Calleigh had shot him in the chest.

Natalia was on the floor cradling Annie, while Calleigh called for an ambulance.

Come on baby, dont you leave me, Natalia said as she waited for help to arrive.

Annie thought she could hear Natalias voice, but everything was blurry, and dark.

Natalia, stemmed the flow of bleeding with her hand. Before long the paramedics arrived and were able to stabilize Annie before transporting her to the hospital. Natalia insisted on riding to the hospital. Calleigh stayed behind to secure the scene.

Horatio arrived at the shop with Eric and before long Alexx had arrived to remove Rogers body.

What happened Calleigh?

When Natalia and I arrived we could see Roger with his hands around Annies neck. He pulled a gun and pointed at her head. It was shoot him, or he was going to shoot and kill Annie.

He may have already done that, Horatio said in his usual quiet voice.

Hey look, a security camera, Eric offered as he looked up at the ceiling. Hopefully its not one of those fake ones. Eric walked into the backroom and went to the security system. A few minutes later he came out smiling. Looks like we have it all on tape, he said as looked at Horatio and Calleigh.

Good job, Eric. Calleigh I think Eric and I can finish up here. Why dont you head to the hospital and see if Natalia needs anything.

Calleigh nodded and headed to her car. She wasnt sure what shed find when she got to the hospital. She quickly found Natalia sitting in the reception area waiting for word on Annie. The blonde detective took Natalias hand in hers.

You okay?

Im so scared shes going to die, and Ill never have told her I love her.

Natalia you have to have faith shes going to be okay.

So do you think Roger did it?

Eric found a security tape. I guess he incriminated himself.

A doctor entered the waiting room and headed toward Natalia.

Are you here for Ann Townsend?

Yes sir, how is she?

Are you family? the doctor asked before divulging anything of a personal nature about his patient.

Miss Boa Vista is Anns sister-in-law, Calleigh said to the doctor.

Shell be fine.

Her bullet wound? Natalia asked.

Bullet grazed her shoulder. Shell be sore for a day or two.

But she was bleeding.

The man that was shot must have bled out all over her.

Natalia took an instant dislike to the arrogant doctor. She just wanted to see Annie, to touch her, hold her.

Shell be ready to leave in a few minutes. Oh by the way she has a slight bumped on her head, probably hit the floor on her way down.

Before long Annie was wheeled out of the ER, to a waiting Natalia and Calleigh. Natalia was at Annies side in a flash. She touched the woman to make sure she was really okay.

Are you okay? Natalia asked.

The doctor said my shoulder has a slight scratch. My head kind of hurts where I bumped it on the floor.

Thank god youre okay, Natalia choked. I dont know what I would have done if he had killed you.

Listen you two, lets get out of here.

Im taking you to my place, Natalia said firmly.

Im okay, you can just drop me off at my place.

No, youre place is a mess. Youre coming home with me so I can keep an eye on you for a few days.

What about work?

Never mind about work. Right now youre more important to me than work.

Calleigh drove the two women to Natalias apartment. Annie felt a little dizzy as they helped her into the small apartment. Calleigh, gave Natalia a hug and then quietly left. She hoped the two women would talk out their feelings for one another.

Can I get you anything? Natalia asked as she took off her shoes.

No, Im fine. So, the doc said Roger was killed.

Yeah, Calleigh took him down, just as he pulled the trigger to shoot you.

I guess I owe her my life. I owe both of you.

No, you dont owe us anything. We were just doing our job. Natalia responded. You need to get some rest. Ill go make up the guestroom. Natalia quickly got up and headed to the guestroom. Annie quietly followed Natalia.

She found the officer pulling sheets out of a closet. Nat can I do anything to help?

Annie, I love you. Im sorry, Im sure you dont want to hear this, but I just cant keep it in any longer.

You what?

I love you and I know you dont feel the same way, but after what happened today, I just cant keep it in any longer. Im sorry, Im sure this is the last thing you need to hear tonight.

Nat, come here, Annie said softly.

Natalia put down the sheets and headed over to Annie. Annie drew the woman into her arms.

Natalia Boa Vista, I have loved you since the day I met you. I just never thought for a minute you could feel the same way.

Why didnt you ever say anything, Natalia asked as tears started to roll down her eyes.

You were going to marry Nick and someone as beautiful as you could never love another woman.

Oh Annie, why do you think I wanted to marry Nick? I stupidly thought if I married him it would always keep you in my life. But then you left and never returned. I was heartbroken. It was you I loved, never Nick.

Annie felt the tears roll down her cheeks as she looked Natalia in the eyes. All she could see was love and tenderness.

You know Nat, Ive been through a lot today, I think Id feel better if you would kiss me, Annie joked.

I think that can be arranged, Natalia responded as she deeply kissed the woman standing before her.

Both women were breathless when they broke apart.

I love you, Natalia.

I love you too Annie.

Sleep with me, tonight? Annie pleaded.

Yes, but not tonight, you need rest. I now know we have plenty of nights to be together. But for tonight you need rest, youve been through a lot.

Annie reluctantly agreed. They did compromise. Natalia allowed Annie into her bed but with the promise they would wait to make love when Annie was feeling a little stronger. Annie finally admitted to Natalia that she had a kicker of a headache.

The two women got into bed, Natalia took her beloved into her arms. Before long bother women were contentedly sleeping. Neither moved all night. In the morning they awoke still in one anothers arms.

I definitely like waking up next to you, Annie said as she caressed Natalias stomach.

Natalia felt a warmness creep into her stomach. She knew she needed to get up out of bed or she wouldnt be able to help herself. Annie continued caressing Natalias stomach until she finally reached her breasts. Unable to hold back any longer, Natalia started to moan, and before long both women were unclothed and exploring one another. They knew how to pleasure the other, and years of pent up frustration finally brought both woman to a heightened climax.

I love you Annie, Natalia whispered to her lover.

I love you too Natalia.

Please dont ever leave me again. Natalia pleaded as she took the woman into her arms.

Im right where I belong, Annie said contentedly as a new wave of pleasure hit her apex.

Epilogue:

Two months later:

Sweetheart theres a deliver at the door, Natalia called as she signed for the small box.

Annie came into the living room from her office, and smiled as Natalia placed the box on the coffee table.

A new shipment of cards? Natalia asked.

Nope, Annie said as she took the small package and held it close.

What? No cards? Natalia joked.

Hey those cards you joke about are my livelihood.

Like you need it after the loot you hauled in from Mr. Grady.

Poor Mr. Norman. He lost his life all because his nephew wanted money. But I guess you see this sadness all the time at your job.

Everyday baby, everyday. Oh by the way, Rita called, she has a taker for my condo.

Great. Was kind of silly to keep it, after all I cant keep you away from here because of the view.

Natalia smiled at her lover. And quite a view, she quipped as she pulled Annie into her arms.

I meant the view of the bay.

Ive been had, I moved in so I can see the view of the bay, Natalia joked. Seriously honey, you have no idea what you mean to me. We wasted so much time by not being truthful to one another. I want to be with you every day.

Annie opened the small box and removed a smaller box from within. She handed the small box to Natalia and nodded.

Whats this? she asked as she opened the box.

Youll see.

Natalia opened the small box. Inside were two rings, set with diamonds and sapphires.

Oh Annie, these are beautiful.

I know we cant get married in the state of Florida, but we can take our own vows, if youll have me.

Have you? Oh baby Im yours.

Annie slipped the ring onto Natalias finger and then lead her down hall to their bedroom for what promised to be a long night of lovemaking.

The End? I dont know, how do you feel about Natalia and Annie starting a family? Email me at Rebecca@yahoo.com