Michael and Nikita headed back to Section One after delivering the damning evidence against Paul and Madeline to Oversight, George in particular. Once in the car they both gave a big sigh of relief. They knew they were far from completing their end game but they were at least taking steps in the right direction. Both were still trying to come to terms with what had taken place over the last twenty-four hours, but both knew that as long as they had the other, they could survive anything that they had to face.

Nikita was dealing with the fact that once again Michael had been shot. She knew he was in great pain but she also knew that he was headstrong and would refuse any help, either physical or medicinal. She also knew that he was concerned that now that he was in charge of Section One he would be able to maintain control and the structural integrity of the Section. Nikita worried about Michael. She knew he would die before he would ever admit defeat, even if he had to take down the Section and Oversight with him. Besides, she felt it was better for her to worry about Michael right now than to concentrate on her own mental state.

Michael, on the other hand, was very concerned about Nikita’s emotional state. He knew she was basically functioning on autopilot. He knew she did not want to bother him. Nor did she have any idea of how to come to terms with the function she had performed that afternoon. Michael himself was having difficulty coming to terms with what she had done. He knew she had done what she had felt she needed to do. Michael had been about to go and execute the rogue operatives. He, after all, was accustomed to killing in cold blood. But Nikita had grabbed a gun before he realized what was happening and was moving in for the kill. If he had made a move to stop her he would have destroyed both his own tenuous power and undermined the integrity of Nikita’s position and her decisions. So he had held back and allowed her to go through with her decision.

By the time they reached Section One, both were nervous as to what they would find there. They had left quite quickly after the execution of the operatives in order to get to George before too much information had filtered out to him. They had left Birkoff and Walter in charge. They hoped that there had been no further resistance while they were gone. As soon as they walked in they were inundated with reports. There had been no further resistance within Section One but the heads of all the other Sections had called in to speak to them. Michael and Nikita were sure that each wanted to make sure whether or not their hold on Section One was tenuous or strong. They were sure that the other leaders were feeling them out to see if One could be easily taken. Michael ordered Birkoff to contact the heads of the Sections and tell them there would be a debriefing the next morning before they were all to report to Oversight.

Michael and Nikita turned to go upstairs to the aerie. As they walked through the open area of Comm and Systems, Nikita stopped. She stood still looking at the place where she had cold-bloodedly killed a dozen of her fellow operatives. Michael turned to go to her. Nikita just shook her head slightly. Michael nodded and turned to resume his walk upstairs. Nikita stood in the spot where she had calmly pulled the trigger to end twelve lives. She knew there were operatives watching her to see what she would do. She took one look up to the heavens and shook her head slightly. Turning towards Comm she called to Birkoff.

“ Have housekeeping sanitize my new office immediately. I want absolutely nothing left in there. I will get together with them tomorrow about how I want it decorated.”

As Birkoff nodded his head, Nikita turned and slowly climbed the stairs to Operations aerie. There she joined Michael as he looked down over his new domain.

**********

Michael and Nikita stood for a long time looking out over Systems and Comm. They watched as operatives scurried about carrying out their assignments. Both operatives knew that they should be reviewing files and bringing themselves up to date with all current missions. Both, however were physically and mentally drained. Birkoff and Walter seemed to have everything under control and things seemed to be running smoothly.

Suddenly, Birkoff buzzed the aerie. “Sir!”

“Yes Birkoff?”

“ Davenport would like to speak to the both of you if you are available?”

“Send him up Birkoff.”

Neither Michael nor Nikita knew what it was that Davenport wanted. They were both tensed as he walked into the aerie. Davenport looked around tentatively as he realized that they had failed to clean up the aerie adequately. There was still blood on the floor in some spots and the walls were still riddled with bullets. Nikita and Michael didn’t seem to have noticed.

“What is it Davenport?”

“Sir, I just wanted to report in that all remaining operatives have been accounted for. Things are well under control at the moment. No one else seems inclined to fight against your control of the Section. I just wanted to convey my thanks along with those of many other operatives. What has been accomplished in the last twenty-four hours could never have even been dreamed of without you two. We do appreciate all that you have done to accomplish your goals. We all understand that this is still Section. We all know what that means and we are all resigned to the fact that we all must remain here and that we have a job to do. However, we feel that lately our goals and objectives have changed for the worse. We are all counting on you to get us back on the right track with our goals and objectives. We were getting very tired of paying for our own individual sins y committing more crimes. Maybe now we can accomplish more good than bad. After all, that was the original intention of this place. We all realize that we are not going to like everything that we are forced to do. But at least we all have the hope that it is all for the greater good again.”

Michael thought a moment before responding. “We too hope to accomplish goals for the greater good Davenport. We understand that everyone has worked very hard to get us to these positions, especially over the last few hours. We do appreciate that. Please convey our thanks to all the operatives. However, please convey to them that whether they like their assignments or not, they must be carried out. This is still Section One and it still is a very ruthless taskmaster. Anyone not completing assignments will be dealt with in a harsh manner. Do not let the operatives get complacent Davenport. This place was not designed for complacency. Am I making myself clear?”

“Perfectly clear sir. I would not have expected it to be otherwise. Please do not get me wrong. That was surely not my intention or suggestion. I will convey your comments to the operatives.” As Davenport began to turn away, he stopped. “Excuse me sir.” At Michael’s nod he continued. “ Earlier I took the liberty of having Christopher prepare a meal for the two of you. It is in the Tower. You two look like you could use some rest. You have had a very rough twenty-four hours and I am quite sure you have several more rough hours to come. Please, go and get some rest. We need you to both be in top form for the ordeals which are still to come. Birkoff, Walter and I have everything well in hand. Do not worry, if you are needed we will not hesitate to call.” At Michael’s nod, Davenport turned to leave.

When Davenport had reached the door, Michael spoke again. “Davenport, a moment please?” Davenport turned to face Michael and Nikita again. “ I would like to offer you a promotion Davenport. I would like for you to take over my position. Top Class Five operative in charge of all of the cold-op teams. I think you would make a great leader. Now I know that position takes a lot of responsibility. It is completely up to you whether or not you accept the promotion. No hard feelings on my part if you refuse. I am sure I can find someone else to take it if you do not want it. Think about it. I will need your answer in the morning. That will be all Davenport.”

“Thank you. I will give you my answer first thing in the morning. Have a good evening, sir, maam.” Davenport turned to leave. Nikita took Michael’s hand and led him to the Tower to enjoy their meal.

***********

Michael and Nikita were awakened by a pounding on the door. Both jumped, as they at first had no clue where they were. Michael was the first to realize that they were in the Tower and that it was Birkoff pounding on the door. Suddenly, everything that had happened in the recent past came rushing back to both of them. Michael jumped up and grabbed his Glock. He cautiously opened the door and peered out at the owly eyes of Birkoff. “Birkoff, what the hell is it? You scared the s--- out of me!!”

“Sorry Operations, I tried to buzz you but the Comm unit up here is down.”

“I know! I disabled it myself! What’s the problem?”

Birkoff smiled. “We just got word that some remnants of Glass Curtain have resurfaced very close to Paris. They are about to go on the move. We have to get to them quickly. Here is the Intel. I have scheduled a briefing for a half-hour from now. The teams will be waiting for your orders sir. Sir! Michael! Are you sure you are awake?”

“I’m fine Birkoff. We will be down in a few minutes. Let me read over this with Nikita and we will decide which scenario is best. Thank you Birkoff.”

Michael turned back into the room to see Nikita pulling on a pair of pants. He stopped for a moment to admire her finely shaped legs as the pants worked their way up. Michael sighed. So much for a good night’s sleep he thought ruefully.

Within minutes Michael and Nikita had perused the files that Birkoff had left for them. Nikita had made a pot of coffee for Michael because she knew just how little sleep he had gotten. As they got ready to leave the Tower they looked at each other. They could read the message in each other’s eyes. This first mission could make or break them. They needed for this to work.

Downstairs, Michael slowly took his position behind the briefing table. This was a very strange feeling for him. He noticed that the operatives had unthinkingly left his chair empty. He guessed that they too would need time to adjust to the new positions within Section One. Davenport walked in and quietly took Michael’s seat. He looked at Michael and nodded. Michael returned the nod and began the meeting. The nods signified the acceptance of command on both parts.

Michael began his briefing. “ Your attention please.” All heads turned to watch him. “It has been brought to our attention that these three men, known members of Glass Curtain, have been attempting to resurface, not far from here. They have been attempting to sell what we believe to be parts of our own Directory. We had believed that the entire Directory had been destroyed when we took out their home base several months back.

You all remember that I am sure. The incineration of Section One was not something to be easily forgotten. However, it seems that at least a part if not all of the Directory escaped our detection and destruction. We must infiltrate and destroy whatever it is that they have. Davenport will be in charge of the teams. You have 2 hours to profile your mission before you must leave. If anyone has questions I will be in my office. Get busy. You do not have much time. Dismissed.”

As the operatives began to rush off, Michael spoke again. “Davenport, a moment please?” As Davenport stayed behind, other operatives continued walking. Michael waited until the briefing room had been cleared. “Davenport, I am glad that you have chosen to accept the promotion. Remember that I will not be an easy taskmaster. But also please remember that I have been in the same position and I do understand where you are coming from. Now, I want you to understand, this mission can make or break the new regime in Section. You fought hard by my side today in order to get us to the position we are now in. You are in charge of this mission and I am counting on you to carry this through. You have been a Class Five op for some time. Now you have a greater responsibility. Can you handle it?”

Davenport thought for a moment before he answered. “Operations, you offered me the position earlier. You would not have done so if you did not believe that I could handle the job. How could I not feel that I can handle the job when you believe I can. Don’t worry, I can handle it. Is that all, sir?”

Michael nodded and watched Davenport hurry off to profile the mission. Michael sighed and turned to go to his office. He noticed Nikita standing in the doorway to the briefing room waiting for him. He smiled as he realized that she had been near in case he needed her but had chosen not to add anything. It had not been necessary and she knew it. Michael again thanked the God he had forgotten existed for allowing him to reach Nikita. He knew that they both had a long way to go, and that Nikita still had a lot of different emotions to rediscover. But he also knew that they would be able to face the challenges together. They both turned to go upstairs to await the outcome of this first mission.

**********

Davenport reported in to Birkoff back at Section One. Michael and Nikita had been hovering over Birkoff’s shoulder the entire time the teams had been gone. Birkoff was thankful when Davenport reported in because they were beginning to grate on his nerves. Davenport reported that they had closure. He had the Directory in his hands and all remaining members of Glass Curtain who had been in the compound had been eliminated. Estimated time of arrival at Section One would be just over one hour. He directed Birkoff to have Med Teams standing by for there were several injured operatives.

Michael and Nikita met the teams at the door to van access. They watched worriedly as several operatives were carried off on stretchers. Three were taken off covered with sheets. Davenport handed the disks to Nikita and turned to follow his team to Med Lab.

Michael’s voice rang out in the near silence. “Davenport, my office, 20 minutes!” Michael turned and walked off with Nikita following quietly behind him.

Nikita was wondering what was going on with Michael. He had been rather curt and abrupt with Davenport just then. She chose wisely however to not question him at this moment. She would allow him to play this scenario out and then question him later when they had more time and when they could be alone. She knew she could get him to talk to her. She also knew she could do nothing to undermine his authority as Operations.

Davenport had taken the 20 minutes afforded him to shower and shave. He had been covered in blood and did not want to appear before Operations and Nikita in such a shabby state. When Michael had been in his position, he had never appeared so. Davenport did not want Michael to look down on him. He wanted to appear like he knew what he was doing and as if he belonged in his position.

Michael conducted the debrief with his usual minimalist aplomb. Nikita stood apart from the two men as they squared off. She watched the two of them. She was curious as to the performance that Michael was giving. He was curt and abrasive with Davenport, asking questions with very few words, but which in actuality spoke volumes. Nikita had not seen Michael act this way in quite a while. It actually amused and amazed her that he felt he had to put on this performance for Davenport.

Watching Davenport, Nikita was proud of him. He stood toe-to-toe with Michael, deftly answering each question that Michael spat out at him. He never once took the bait that Michael had lined his trap with. Davenport was good, Nikita surmised. He would make an excellent leader of the teams, for he followed orders, yet he seemed capable of dealing with Operations and the demands that would be placed on him. He would subsequently prove a good leader, for he would surely understand the concept of being a strong leader and make sure that his orders were followed to the letter. Nikita knew that this was the reason Michael was testing Davenport. She also knew that he would continue to do so, because Michael would never want his top operative to become complacent in his position. Michael had surely never been allowed any such privilege.

As Davenport left the office, Michael turned to the window and looked out over the main floor of Section. He gave a great sigh and closed his eyes for a moment. Nikita walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. Michael opened his eyes and smiled at her. Nikita just smiled back. She knew that Michael was exhausted. He was physically and mentally drained. She knew it would take him a while to adjust to his new position. He had always been thought of as a hard-ass in Section, but now his position demanded that he be that hard-ass at all times. He would never again be able to let his defenses down. His position was too great. I f his defenses ever slipped it would mean the end for both of them. Nikita understood that now, watching Michael stiffened his resolve once more.

“Michael, it is only 3:00 in the morning. You have not had any sleep lately. Go back to the Tower and get some rest. I will wake you if you are needed. If not I will wake you so that we can get ready to report to Oversight later. Rest, darling. I know that you need it. So do you. You will not be able to function correctly if you do not rest.”

Michael smiled. “Join me?”

“Not this time my love. I have work to do. I want to read this Directory so that I can bring myself up to date on our operatives and their locations. I had some rest earlier. Besides I have the feeling that if I accompanied you, you would not get any rest! Go now, sleep. I will wake you later.”

Michael kissed Nikita on the cheek and turned to go to the Tower for some much-needed rest. He knew he had a long day and long weeks ahead of him. She was right he needed sleep if he were to be in top form to face Oversight in a few hours.

Nikita smiled as she watched him walk away. Turning she gazed out over the lower floor of Section and steeled herself for whatever was to come.

***********

Michael felt much more refreshed when he was awakened a few hours later by Nikita. She had wakened him so that they could enjoy a leisurely breakfast and still have time to get ready to go to Oversight. Both wanted to make a good impression on the leaders of the other Sections. Michael had met them all before when he had had temporary control of Section One but Nikita had never met any of them.

Nikita had learned a lot in the few hours she had had alone to study the Directory and the operative files. She had never realized how vast an entity Section One really was. She knew that she and Michael had their hands full. And she knew that a part of her job was to evaluate and make recommendations for all of these operatives within Section One. She had always hated paperwork but she guessed she would just have to get used to it.

Nikita decided that she would refrain from telling Michael about the conversation she had already had with George that morning until after their meeting at Oversight. She figured if he knew that she had spoken with George, he would be upset. She knew he would be even more upset if he had any idea just what the conversation had consisted of. Later, would be a much better time to discuss that. Later, after his accession to control had been confirmed.

After breakfast they both went to shower and dress for their meeting. Michael had hoped to share a shower with Nikita but he knew it was definitely not the time. By the time they were ready they were impeccably dressed in matching Versace suits. The only difference being that Nikita wore no tie. All who saw them leave Section were duly impressed at the striking figure they both cut.

Davenport met Michael and Nikita at the entrance to Section One. He reported in that he had stationed operatives outside of Oversight and along their route. They were all prepared if the need arose. Michael just raised an eyebrow, thanked him and dismissed him. As Davenport walked away to consult with Birkoff, Michael turned to Nikita. “Your handiwork I presume?”

Nikita smiled. “ I told you I had things to do while you slept. Michael, I may never have held this position before, but I do know full well the requirements of this job. Part of that job is securing both your position and my own. We cannot allow George, or anyone else for that matter, to have the upper hand. I am just assuring that if anything untoward should happen while we are at Oversight, we will have backup. Since when do you go anywhere without backup anyway?”

Michael laughed. He totally agreed with Nikita’s assessment. He simply had not thought to have backup provided. He saw the intelligence in bringing backup. He hoped they would not need it but it was better to be prepared and not need than to need and not have. He was grateful that Nikita had thought to provide the backup. Maybe she was really cut out for this job of second-in-command.

Luckily they did not need the backup. Things went very smoothly at Oversight. All of the other leaders of the Sections welcomed both Michael and Nikita and wished them well. They were, however, adamant about the fact that they expected no slack off in production for Section One. After all, the other Sections looked to One to be their example.

As they left Oversight, Nikita turned and smiled at George. George responded by a slight nod of his head. Michael contacted Davenport and had him return all teams to Section One. Nikita figured the best time to talk to Michael about her conversation with George would be after they had enjoyed a celebratory dinner. She knew she could not put off telling him forever. She just figured they could enjoy a nice dinner before she had to face the wrath of Michael.

***********

Nikita sat back to relax a little after the fine meal she and Michael had just shared. She had stuffed herself on squabs, stuffed with wild dressing and wrapped in bacon. Michael had relished the fine meal too. They had topped it off with their favorite ice cream: Rocky Road. Michael was just finishing off the carton.

Nikita had been dreading this moment all day. She knew it would be better if she just got it over with. But this time, Nikita was truly frightened about how Michael would react to what she had to tell him. She knew she deserved his wrath. She just was not sure if she could survive the onslaught.

Michael sat watching Nikita. He knew she had something that was troubling her. He had watched her covertly all day and he knew she was trying to hide something from him. He just could not figure out what it was. He suspected it might have something to do with the fact that he had turned Madeline and Paul over to George after they had left Oversight. He had promised to send them immediately to George when they had gone to Oversight yesterday. However, after he and Nikita had left Oversight, Michael had decided that it would be in his best interest too keep a hold of them until his position had been approved by all of Oversight. Michael wondered if Nikita was now regretting their actions and regretting sending Madeline and Paul to George.

Michael watched Nikita as she sat struggling. He knew she would not be able to relax if she did not get whatever was on her mind into the open. Since she was not inclined to bring it up, Michael decided he needed to question her. “Nikita, spit it out! What is bothering you today? You have been quiet and sullen all day long. Especially since we returned from Oversight. Are you having second thoughts about the change of command?”

Nikita took a deep breath. “ No Michael, I am not having second thoughts. Can we leave it at that?”

Michael smiled, stood and took Nikita by the hand. “ I know you better than that Nikita. You will not be able to function until you have cleared whatever is on your mind. If it is not the change of command, then what is it? I will not let this go Nikita. You will tell me what is bothering you. So, you might as well get it over with now.”

“All right Michael. If you insist. But I am warning you now, you will not like what you hear. It was never my intention to hurt you but hearing this may very well do that. Michael, please, sit down and let me explain to you.

Michael sat. He was very curious to find out what Nikita had done that would cause her to actually fear his reaction. He could read the fear in her eyes. That scared him. What could she have possibly done that would cause the anger she feared?

Nikita took a deep breath. She really did not want to do this now...or ever actually. But she saw the look in Michael’s eyes. He would not let this go until he knew the whole truth. He could read her like a book and would know if she tried to lie to him.

Nikita cleared her throat and began to speak. “You remember, quite well, the Adrian fiasco?” She smiled as Michael nodded his head. “ I was sent in by Madeline and Operations to trap Adrian. I fell for their story as you well know. However, when I met Adrian I learned many things about Madeline and Operations. I knew I was in no position to go against their orders, so I continued with the assignment. You know how that assignment ended up.”

“Yes, go on Nikita.”

“What you do not know, Michael is that two months ago, George called me on a secure line at my apartment.”

Michael merely raised his eyebrows at this information.

“ He knew that I had been a part of the mission to lure Adrian here to Section One. He still was not sure of the true outcome of that mission. He did, however hold me responsible for my part in it. He “asked” me to help him.”

“He “asked” you? What did he ask you to do? I suppose this is the part I will not like?”

Nikita nodded before she continued. “He said that if I helped him take down Operations and Madeline, he would forgive my part in the Adrian affair. He knew that I really had no choice in the matter. In return, he promised me that you and I would be in charge of Section One if we wanted it. He promised to smooth things over with Oversight.”

“How were you to trap Operations and Madeline? So far Nikita I do not see why you have feared telling me this. Nothing you have said so far has aroused my anger. Maybe a little that George dared to approach you but otherwise, not a big deal. All a part of the job here at Section.”

“That’s the difficult part to explain Michael. Brace yourself, you are not going to like it. Madeline had a secret project that she had recently approached George for approval for. It was called Level 9. It was an experimental deprivation chamber. George wanted me to allow Madeline to use me as her experimental subject.”

Michael’s back stiffened visibly.

“ George needed someone strong enough to want to take over Section One. He knew that the only person capable of that was you Michael. He needed Operations and Madeline to be toppled. In other words he needed you Michael. The only way he could think to get to you was to go through me. If I allowed Madeline to wipe the emotions and feelings from my brain, you might be angry enough to go after them. Which was exactly what George needed.”

Michael’s ire was rising visibly. Rather than shouting, Michael’s voice was icily quiet when he spoke. “ You mean to tell me that you “voluntarily” allowed Madeline to put you in a deprivation chamber and wipe your mind of all emotions, including the love that we shared? Good God Nikita, paying George back for setting up Adrian was not worth that. Nothing is worth that. Luckily you found your emotion of love. What of your other emotions. We have not even explored the depth of destruction on your other emotions Nikita. Whatever gave you the idea that giving up what we had was worth being in charge of Section? Did you believe that I wanted it that badly? Did you? I can’t understand that Nikita. I know you are expecting anger from me. But, I do not feel anger toward you. I feel disappointment Nikita. Disappointment that you did not care enough about the love we shared to preserve it. You gave it up willingly for nothing. We could have survived very well even if we were not in charge of Section. Nothing is worth giving up the love we felt for each other. Nothing.”

Nikita’s heart was breaking as she watched a single tear roll down Michael’s cheek. She knew how he felt. She understood why he was disappointed. She however was not finished with her tale. She continued. “Michael, you are completely right. None of that was worth giving up the love we shared. There was another part for George to play. Not only did he promise that we would have control of Section. He promised me something else in return. Something that really was worth giving up my love for you Michael. It was something I could not pass up.”

“What? What could possibly be worth giving up what we had?” Michael shook his head in confusion as he attempted to sort out Nikita’s words. Nothing could come to his mind that would justify giving up.

“Michael, I am not sure you are ready for this, but I cannot keep it from you any longer. I want you to know I did this for you. For me. For us. It is something I know you have been suffering over for quite a while. Now I hope I can end your suffering. Michael, I have Adam.”

**********

Michael sat in stunned silence. His jaw actually hung agape. No, he had not heard her correctly. That was impossible. There was no way she had said those things. She could not have willingly allowed herself to be wiped clean. She could not possibly have his son. He didn’t even know where Adam was. How on earth could she?

Nikita watched Michael’s reaction carefully. His face drained of all color. His mouth hung open. It looked as if he were not breathing. She watched as he took a deep breath and his eyes closed involuntarily. When his eyes opened they were shimmering with tears.

“What do you mean, you have Adam? You mean you know where he is? I s he all right? Are they both all right? Where are they?” The questions poured out of Michael.

Nikita steeled herself to answer Michael’s questions. One at a time she told herself. “I mean that I have Adam, Michael. I not only know where he is but I placed him there myself. He is fine, Michael. He is perfectly all right. He is the wonderful, beautiful child that we know. Michael, listen to me carefully. He was devastated when he lost you. So was Elena. Two months ago she couldn’t take it anymore Michael, she committed suicide. Adam had been in a foster home when George found him for me. Five days ago I had him removed from the foster home.”

“Why? Why Nikita? What did you think you could do? What purpose does it serve for him to be out of the foster home? It is not as if I can see him anyway. He thinks I am dead. I cannot live with him, that would put him in danger. Especially since I am now Operations. What were you thinking?” Michael’s voice had risen noticeably while speaking. He had gotten up from his chair and was pacing the floor.

Nikita blanched under Michael’s tirade. “Michael, I did this all for you! You are now Operations, you can do what you want. If you want to see Adam you can. If you want to live with Adam, you can. You have the power. I know it will shock him to know that you are still alive. He is young, he will get over the shock. You can be a family with him if you want Michael.”

“I would have to spend too many long hours here Nikita. How could I spend any quality time with him? How could I protect him? I just thought I was a wanted man when I was a Class five Op. Now I am the head of Section One. I will be the target of every terrorist organization we come up against. My son would be a fresh target for them. I can’t protect him Nikita. He is better off in the foster home.”

“I don’t think so Michael. Come, sit down and calm down. Let me tell you my plan. Believe me, I thought long and hard about this before I set things in motion. You can set up an apartment and take him there, or you can use one of the apartments here in Section. He would probably be safer here. You know we have those set up to where the people in them have no idea they are within Section. Now during the daytime I figured we could find a young female operative to sit with Adam. She would be trained to protect him. He would be her main focus. That way he could be protected when you were away from him.”

Michael stared at Nikita as she spoke. He began to wonder how real this scenario was becoming. He wondered just how long she had been working on this without him knowing a thing about it. The only thing that struck him as odd was that she kept saying ‘you’. ‘You’ set up an apartment. ‘You’ be a family with him. What about her? Where did she fit into this scenario?

When Nikita finished speaking, Michael began asking questions again. “Why would you do this for me? Before I agree to this, I want to know your motivation for doing this. I also need more of an outline of this operative we could use for Adam. It would have to be a brand new recruit for I would want you and I to train her together. We cannot have just anyone watching over our son. Now the last thing I want to know Nikita is where is he?”

“Did you just say we Michael? Our son?”

As Michael nodded and smiled, Nikita launched herself into Michael’s arms. She hugged and kissed him deeply. She loved him so deeply. She hoped that they could work this out and become a family with Adam. She knew if they worked on it together they could make it happen.

Michael broke the embrace. He lifted Nikita’s chin and looked into her eyes. “Nikita you did not answer my question. Where is my son? Where is Adam?’

Nikita walked away from Michael and wrapped her arms around her. She knew this could be the sticking point in the issue. She moved closer to the door. She turned around and said, "I have two words for you Michael. Mick…Schtoppel.” Nikita hurriedly exited the room before Michael could attack.

***********

“MICK…SCHTOPPEL???” came the roar from the other side of the door. “Nikita, I am going to kill you!! You can run, but you can’t hide. I will find you. And when I do there is going to be hell to pay!”

Nikita scurried away and sought refuge in Walter’s munitions center. She knew the old man would protect her from Michael. She fervently hoped Michael was not truly angry with her. She had done the only thing she could possibly think of to do. Mick had been convenient. With Adam just across the hallway, Nikita could keep an eye on him.

Michael calmly walked into Walter’s work area. He saw Nikita there standing strangely close to Walter. Very calmly, Michael said, “Nikita, I need to see you in my office, now!”

Nikita knew she was trapped. How could she contradict an order? And to top it all off, she saw Michael smile slightly as he realized how he had trapped her. She threw her hair back away from her face and walked undauntingly ahead of him. She figured she better go ahead and get this over with.

As they walked into the aerie, Michael reached over and flipped to switch to make the windows go dark. Turning toward Nikita he said… “Now, exactly how long has Mick Schtoppel had control over our son? How long will it take for us to set up an apartment here at Section? How long before we can find the right operative and have her trained? I want us to set up an apartment here. I do not want our son to be separated from us for much longer. You know I should strangle you for keeping this information from me. But God help me, I love you for getting my son for me!”

Saying this, Michael wrapped Nikita in a bear hug. He kissed her deeply. He so loved her for this. She had gone out on a limb to bring him his son. She had risked her life in order for him to have some happiness. Although he would have been hard-pressed to be happy if he had lost her, she had realized that it was hard for him to be complete without his son. He would never be able to repay her for the gift she had given him.

Nikita melted into Michael’s embrace. She loved being there. She was so thankful that he was not truly angry with her. She loved the fact that he was so excited about getting his son. She was even more thankful that he wanted her to be a part of their lives. She had feared that he would want to be alone with Adam. That he would not have room for her in his heart. But she had been wrong. They could take Adam together and raise him as a family. Together they could help him heal over the shock of finding out that his father was not dead and the shock of his mother’s death. She would also be grateful to Mick for helping her out in a pinch. He had owed her after she had agreed to be his wife when his mother had come to town. The biggest concern she had was to keep Michael from hating Mick. They had never really gotten along but she hoped that Michael would have a little more tolerance for Mick since he had taken good care of Adam. Adam loved Mick to death even though they had only been together for 5 days. Nikita knew that Mick would stay close with the young boy.

Michael broke the embrace. He smiled into Nikita’s eyes. He kissed the tip of her nose. Smiling again, he whispered “Let’s go get our son!”

Together they walked out of Section One to claim their son from Mick Schtoppel.

**********

On the way to her apartment complex, Michael was anxious and nervous. What would Adam’s reaction be to seeing him again? Nikita had not told the boy anything about his being alive. He still believed his father dead. How would the boy feel when he realized that his father had left him and his mother? Could he explain any of it to the boy? Would he understand? Could their relationship pick up where it had left off? Michael loved his son very much; he was just not sure where the strength of explaining would come from.

As they had agreed in the car, Nikita let Michael into her apartment. She would go across the hallway to Mick’s apartment and bring Adam across. Neither had figured out a good way to tell Adam that his father was still alive. It was agreed that Nikita would tell him that she had a surprise for him and bring him across the hallway. They would let it play out as it might after that. Mick had been warned that they were on their way so he was prepared. Mick readily agreed to this plan for he had no desire to find Michael standing on his doorstep. Especially since he had Michael’s son.

After closing her apartment door, Nikita took a deep breath, crossed the hallway and knocked on the door of apartment 411. Mick opened the door, greeted her, kissed her cheeks and ushered her in the door. Nikita found Adam engrossed in a game of Pokemon on Mick’s Nintendo 64. When she called his name, Adam jumped up and ran to wrap his arms around her neck, hugging her tightly.

“Adam! How are you sweetheart? Has Uncle Mick been taking good care of you?” Nikita smiled as the boy grinned up at her.

“Auntie Kita, Uncle Mick has been fun to stay with. Did you know that he likes the same ice cream that we both do? He just loves Rocky Road ice cream. And he had this woman here the other night, really pretty Auntie Kita. Except Uncle Mick kept calling her a “bird”. I couldn’t understand that Auntie Kita. She didn’t look like any bird to me!” Adam paused to take a breath. As he did, Nikita looked at Mick and rolled her eyes. Mick wisely left the room.

Nikita hugged the little boy tightly. “Adam, you like surprises don’t you?” At Adam’s nod, Nikita continued. “Well I have a surprise for you, little one. It is across the hallway in my apartment. Go and tell your Uncle Mick goodbye and don’t forget to thank him for taking very good care of you. You may tell him that you might come and visit with him again. There, be a good boy and go.” As Adam skipped off to the bedroom to tell Mick goodbye, Nikita stiffened her resolve for what was to come.

Adam held tightly to Nikita’s hand as they crossed the hallway. The little boy was chattering away, to no one in particular. He was mixing the things he and Mick had done and his excitement about the surprise he was about to receive. Nikita fervently hoped that excitement would continue, but she knew that this was going to be a rough experience.

When they entered the apartment, Michael was nowhere to be seen. Nikita knew he was up in the bedroom preparing himself to see his son again. She too needed to prepare for she felt that during this first meeting she must sit back and watch. She did not intend to participate. It was going to be very difficult for her to stay out of it, but she knew it was Michael’s opportunity to explain things to his son. He did not need any interference from her.

Nikita poured Adam a glass of milk and began talking to him. He was really antsy about getting his surprise. Nikita continued to ask him how things were while he was with his Uncle Mick. Nikita was stalling. She knew Michael would come down when he was ready. When she looked up and saw Michael standing silently on the landing to the bedroom, Nikita leaned down and told Adam to turn around and see his surprise.

What happened next surprised both Michael and Nikita. Adam, having seen his father scurried off of the stool he had been sitting on and ran to hide behind Nikita. He was screaming. “Make it go away Kita. Make it go away.” Nikita could feel the child trembling behind her. She turned and picked him up. Adam buried his face in her shirt front. “Make the ghost go away, Auntie Kita. Please!!”

Michael was stunned. He came back to himself and started moving toward Nikita and Adam. Adam screamed louder as he saw Michael moving. Nikita quickly waved Michael back. Michael stood stock still while Nikita tried to calm Adam down. “Adam, look at me. It’s ok. That is not a ghost Adam. That is your daddy. Listen to me. I am not lying to you, Adam. Your daddy is not dead. He is right here. He loves you very much Adam. He does not want you to be frightened.”

Adam looked into Nikita’s eyes. He knowingly saw that she was telling the truth. That truly was his daddy. Adam’s heart filled with love. He hugged Nikita once again, tightly, and then sprang across the room jumping into his father’s arms. Yes, he thought. This is my daddy. These arms feel right. He kissed his father’s face profusely. “Daddy!! Daddy!! How I’ve missed you!” Adam could feel his father’s body shaking beneath his body. He looked and realized his father was crying. This was something he had never seen. His daddy was crying. Adam did not understand why.

***********

Michael held his son so very close to him. He loved the feeling of the little warm body next to his. He was crying. It was different from when he had cried with Nikita a couple of days ago. He couldn’t explain it, it was just different. He knew that he would never allow his son to be taken away from him again. He had missed him so. He would do everything in his power to make sure that Adam was protected and could have a full and productive life.

Michael was not sure when his sobs began to subside and he began to realize that his son was himself sobbing. He did not fully realize it until Adam began struggling in his grasp. The sobs were wracking the little body. A high pitched squeal emitted from the tiny body. Adam pushed away from Michael ‘s chest and began pummeling him about the chest and head with his small fists. Michael was shocked. He had no idea what was going on.

“Put me down!! Get your hands off of me!!” Adam was screaming at Michael as he struck out at him. Michael put him down on the floor but attempted to keep a hold of him. He was concerned and wanted to know what the hell was going on. Adam managed to break free, stepped away from Michael and began berating him with his words.

“You left me and my mommy on purpose! You knew we were hurt and scared and you didn’t do nothing about it! I hate you! I hate you! My mommy and I cried ourselves to sleep every night, thinking you were dead. But you weren’t! You didn’t care enough about us to let us know you weren’t dead! You are mean! I hate you! My mommy cried all the time! She cried so much because she missed you! She wanted so much to be with you that she hurt herself so she could go to meet you! But you hurt her even more daddy! You wee not where she thought you were. Now she really is all alone! I never want to see you again!”

Saying this, Adam ran to the door and disappeared across the hallway. Nikita heard Adam pound on the door to Mick’s apartment. Michael stood in stunned silence. As he began to comprehend what had happened, he began to walk toward the door. Nikita intercepted him.

“Michael, before you go over there, you need to calm down. You need to let him calm down. Michael, you knew before we came here that there would be a lot of issues to work out with Adam. He just happened to dump a hell of a lot in your lap right away. He is a little boy and he is hurting, Michael. Give him some time to adjust.”

“Nikita I am calm. I understand the pain he is going through. Remember I went through the same pain, maybe more. He is my son, Nikita. If I don’t go and talk to him now, I just might lose him forever. I just found him again, Kita. I cannot afford to lose him! Come with me? For moral support?”

“All right, Michael. I will stand by you for this. I know how much you love Adam. Know that I love him too, and that I love you. I just cannot stand to see either of you hurting like this. Whatever you think is right to tell him, I will back you 100%.” Nikita kissed Michael on the cheek and they both walked across the hallway to deal with their hurting son.

***********

Michael knocked gently on Mick’s apartment door. He knew that he had his hands full at this moment. Maybe overfull. He did not want to antagonize Adam but he knew if he did not explain to him, and soon, then the hatred within his son would fester. He would lose him in a far worse way than if he had never seen him again. He was not exactly sure what he would tell Adam but he knew he had to try.

Mick opened the door to the apartment. He looked rather bewildered. He had no idea what was going on. Moments ago Adam had come storming into the apartment and curled up on the couch sobbing. Mick had tried to comfort him but it was no use. When Mick opened the door and saw Michael standing there with a dejected look on his face, Mick was even more stunned.

“Where is he Mick?” It was said in almost a whisper.

“He’s on the couch Michael. What the bloody hell is going on? That child is all torn up inside Michael. There is no consoling him.”

“I’ll take care of it Mick. If you will let me in?”

Mick moved aside and watched as Michael walked into the living room. Mick turned to the door and his eyes locked with Nikita’s. Nikita just shook her head in answer to Mick’s unspoken questions. Nikita followed Michael in and sat on the opposite end of the couch from Adam. Mick leaned unnoticed in the doorway between his living room and his kitchen.

Michael was sitting cross-legged on the floor near the end of the couch where Adam lay curled in the fetal position. The little boy’s body was wracked by his sobs. Michael placed a gentle hand on the little boy’s shoulder. Adam, however, scooted away from his father’s touch. Michael took a deep breath and pulled his hand slowly back to his lap. He looked questioningly at Nikita. She just smiled slightly and nodded her head, giving him the encouragement he needed to talk to his son.

“Adam. I know you are hurting right now son. I understand that. But I need for you to listen carefully to me. I know you will not understand all that I have to say to you right now. Hopefully some things will become clearer for you as you grow older my son. But I need for you to at least hear them now.”

Michael took another deep breath and another glance at Nikita. Then he plunged into his tale.” “Adam. I did not leave you and your mother of my own free will. You may not understand now, but I need for you to know that. You see, I work for a company that has some very strange rules. We are a lot like cops in that we try to help people by putting away the bad guys. The people that I worked for believed that because I had you and your mommy to worry about, I could no longer worry about catching the bad guys. They thought, if they could get me away from my family, I would work harder for them. So they faked my death and took you and your mommy to a place where I had no idea where to find you. These people were very good at moving you two around so that daddy could not find you. No matter how desperately he wanted to Adam. I know not having me around hurt you badly, Adam. But, please, realize that it was not daddy’s choice. I love you so very deeply my son. I never meant to hurt you, or your mother. I know you have been very upset at your mother’s death. If there was anyway I could change that for you , I would, Adam. I cared a great deal for your mother and she was very good to me. I am sorry if you blame me for her death. But, please Adam, know that I love you; with my whole heart, my whole soul, my whole being. I will work very hard not to ever hurt you again, if only you will let me try.” Tears were streaming down Michael’s cheeks as his voice trailed off.

Adam’s little body had quit shaking while Michael had been speaking. When Michael’s voice trailed off, Adam turned his face tentatively to the side to look at Michael. saw the tears streaming down Michael’s cheeks and watched as Michael’s head dropped in defeat. He very slowly sat up and looked at the bent head of his father. The little boy noticed his father’s shoulders shaking as he valiantly tried to fight back his tears. Adam placed his small hand underneath Michael’s chin, effectively raising his father’s eyes to meet his own. “Please Daddy, tell me again? Explain it to me again. This time I want to watch your eyes, for by watching them I can always tell if you are lying to me. And for some strange reason, Daddy, I don’t think you are lying to me.”

Michael took a deep calming breath, gave a slight smile to his son, nodded his head and began his discourse again. This time it hurt a little less because he was sharing his innermost feelings with his son, for probably the first time.

************

Adam, temporarily placated, agreed to go back across the hallway to Nikita’s apartment. He was a very tired little boy as well as being emotionally drained. Nikita made him a bed on her couch and Adam quickly drifted off to sleep. Nikita opened a bottle of wine while Michael sat on the floor next to the couch holding his son’s hand. Michael could barely tear his eyes from his slumbering son’s visage in order to take the proffered glass of wine. Nikita just smiled at him and sat next to him, leaning her body up against his.

Neither spoke for a while, both lost in their own thoughts. Nikita gently reached out and smoothed Adam’s ruffled curls back away from his eyes. As she pulled her hand away, Michael took her hand in his and gently lifted it to his lips. Kissing it, he looked deeply into her eyes. His words were simple. “Thank you for this!” He leaned over and gently placed a kiss on Nikita’s lips.

Before they could proceed any further, Nikita’s cell phone began to ring. She smiled at Michael, smoothed his curls back from his face and went to answer it. While she spoke quietly, Michael continued to watch his son sleep. He was amazed how angelic Adam looked in sleep. He had noticed the same about Nikita. He wondered what he himself looked like in sleep.

Nikita came back to him, pulling on her coat. Michael looked up questioningly at her. Nikita just shrugged and said, “Walter was on the phone. Something he needs me to do. You stay here and take care of Adam. I will be back as soon as I can.”

“You sure there is nothing I can do?”

“ No Michael, you stay here with Adam. If I need you I will call. You can leave Adam with Mick if I need to call you in.”

Michael had walked with Nikita to the door of the apartment. He helped her pull her hair out of the collar of her coat. He kissed her again. “Thank you Nikita, from the bottom of my heart. Call me if you need me sweetheart.” Nikita smiled and walked out the door.

When Michael had closed the door, Nikita leaned heavily against it. Her mind was racing. How was she going to fix this problem without Michael finding out about it? She knew he would hit the roof if he knew what had happened. She would just have to handle it on her own. She hurried to Section to talk things over with Walter.

***********

By the time Nikita had arrived at Section, she had spoken with Walter three times. They had been debating what to do since she left the apartment. Above all, Nikita wanted to keep Michael out of this but she knew in the end she would have to tell him what had happened. She knew that he sensed something was wrong before she left the apartment.

When she arrived in Section, she called Walter to her office. He came in dressed in fatigues and Kevlar. He had just come in from his mission. He was concerned how they were going to handle things. Birkoff was his main concern. He was afraid if things did not work out that Birkoff would rebel. Nikita knew he was right.

Nikita buzzed Birkoff and told him to report to her office. He walked in quietly and sat meekly before her desk.

“Birkoff, tell me what happened. And do not leave out even the slightest detail!”

Birkoff looked up at Nikita. He could see the anger in her face. He gulped in some air before he began to speak.

“ I was enjoying my weekend away from Section as you know. I met a girl a while back. I was spending some time with her. I slipped Nikita. I didn’t mean to.”

Nikita broke in. “Birkoff, you had better start at the beginning. Where did you meet this girl? Tell me about her.”

“ I met Lynnadaine at a Renaissance Festival about 5 months ago. We were sitting at a banquet table resting after eating a sumptuous meal. We exchanged pleasantries and then began to talk. I found that we had so much in common. She likes computers; so do I. We read the same books. We watch the same TV shows. So many things in common. Anyway, we spent the rest of the day together at the Renaissance Fair and we got along very well. The next day I called her on a secure line and we talked for a couple of hours. Nikita I was falling in love with her but AI knew there was nothing I could do about it.”

“Why Birkoff?”

“Because she is underage. She won’t be 18 for another year. But I know that I have fallen in love with her. It does not matter to me that she is under 18. I can wait for her. That is not a problem.”

“OK Birkoff, I understand how you feel about her. I am also happy that you are willing to wait for her. What I don’t understand is how you got her into this predicament?”

“OK. Well after talking to her on the phone a few times, I suddenly got an email from her. Now the funny thing about this was I had not given her my email address. She had found it on her own. And she did not send it to my personal email address at hotmail. She sent it to my terminal here in Section. I knew she had somehow hacked in. I covered for her and told her not to email me here aver again. She would not give up. She wanted to know why she could not email me here and wanted to know exactly what here was. I told her I could not tell her. It was a secret. This weekend she was persistent. She wanted to know what I did for my job. She would not take just working with computers for an answer. She wore me down Nikita. I wound up telling her I worked for the Section. As soon as I got back here, I got scared and went to Walter.”

“Birkoff! I cannot believe you told her where you worked. That was the biggest mistake you ever made. Now we have some major decisions to make. I thought I could handle this alone. Now I know I cannot. You do realize that I must tell Operations about this? Michael will not like it Birkoff. He could very well order me, or you, to cancel her. God Birkoff! Why do you get me into these messes?”

“I’m sorry Nikita. I couldn’t help myself. If Operations orders her cancellation, I will take care of it myself, I promise. It will kill me to cancel her but it is my own fault. I better go and track her down and make sure she stays put until Operations makes his decision.”

Birkoff got up slowly and dejectedly.

Nikita placed a hand on his arm. “Don’t bother, she is here in Section. Walter brought her in while you were out working on the Embrolie mission.”

Birkoff froze. “Lynnadaine is here, in Section?” As Nikita nodded her head, Birkoff finally realized the enormity of his mistake.

***********

Michael was livid when he arrived at Section One. He had had a rough night. He was concerned about what had called Nikita back to Section, and Adam had needed him so much last night. Adam had been wracked by horrible nightmares. All Michael had been able to do was hold him. His poor son had been through a lot in his few years. Michael had no way to combat that. Now, Nikita had called him in to Section. Michael had been forced to leave Adam with Mick in order to report in to Section.

Michael had Christopher bring him some coffee and then called Nikita up to the aerie. He demanded to know exactly what was going on and why Nikita had been called into Section earlier. Nikita was quick to answer him for she could see that he was upset.

As Nikita talked, Michael began pacing the floor of the aerie. His mind was reeling. He was furious with Birkoff for putting him in this position. Here was an innocent girl who had been compromised because Birkoff had not been able to keep his mouth shut. Now he knew what his orders had to be. He had to have her canceled.

Nikita obviously did not like his answer. Michael could tell that she had suspected what his answer was going to be. He also knew she would argue with him over his decision. He was at least willing to hear her out.

“Michael, I understand your decision for cancellation. Believe me I thought it was the only alternative too. Then, I decided to talk with Lynnadaine. She is a very lovely young lady. Also she is very bright. Here is her file. If you want to I can recap it all for you.”

At Michael’s nod, Nikita continued. “She had only two weeks of school left. She was graduating fourth in her class. The only thing stopping her from graduating top in her class was a D in Biology in her sophomore year. She has been very involved in extracurricular activities, including drama and renaissance festival. She is an expert artist, mainly drawing. She has also learned a lot about computers. She is very good at hacking, as we have found out.”

“What about her family?”

“ Ah... there is the interesting twist. Her father is a lawyer. He and her mother are divorced. She has two younger sisters. She has been threatening to run away for years. She cannot tolerate her mother. She is so much more intelligent than her mother that her mother cannot understand her. In fact just a couple of years ago, Lynnadaine wrote a girlhood letter to an actor on a spy show. The letter was returned because it did not have the proper postage. Her mother accused her of selling secrets to the Canadians. The actor, it seems was on a spy show, and seeing as the show was filmed in Canada, the mother assumed that she was trading secrets with spies from Canada. Totally batty. In my opinion, Lynnadaine is better off away form her.”

“So, you obviously have thought this through. What do you want to do with her? I obviously will not get my way.”

“You and I talked the other day about finding someone for Adam. Lynnadaine could be perfect for that. She is still young enough to relate to Adam and be able to play with him. She is obviously bright enough to challenge him in his education. And most importantly she is still young enough and fresh enough for us to teach her the things we feel she needs to know in order to protect Adam.”

“What do you intend to do with her when she is not with Adam? She is still a minor after all.”

“She won’t be for long. It will take us a while to train her. She can stay in quarters here or we can set up a room for her in our new apartment, whichever you feel more comfortable with. She is very close to Birkoff. Maybe she can work in Comm with him when she is not with Adam. I would not mind seeing him have a relationship with someone. He needs one.”

“Very well, Nikita. We will try it. But I want to talk to this young lady first. I am still not too sure about her. But, I must admit you do have a good instinct when it comes to people. Bring her to me later today after I have read her file.”

Nikita smiled as she walked out of the aerie. She was pleased that she had won this first of many battles to come. ************

Birkoff was totally ecstatic when Nikita informed him that Lynnadaine was not to be canceled. He knew that he had screwed up and that he had been a complete fool. He still had no clue how Operations was going to deal with his screw-up. He willingly gave in to the punishment of a two-week stint in DRV as his reprimand for bringing an innocent into Section.

Michael was still questioning his decision to keep Lynnadaine alive. She seemed to go along with everything both he and Nikita asked of her but it was as if she always had an ulterior motive for following orders. He was pleased because she was quick to learn every task he set before her. She had fallen in love with Adam immediately and she genuinely seemed to enjoy being in Section. This was immensely different from most other operatives that were brought in. Especially the innocent ones.

Lynnadaine had been in Section One about two months before Michael and Nikita decided to leave her alone with Adam. The little boy loved her dearly and he was excited about staying with her. Birkoff and Walter promised to check in on them and make sure things were going well. Michael was taking Nikita off on a long weekend. They had basically not been outside of Section One since the takeover. They both needed a little getaway.

Michael and Nikita were both nervous about leaving Section. They knew they could trust Birkoff and Walter to run things and make sure both Lynnadaine and Adam were OK, but they were still concerned. Much like new parents when leaving their baby home for the first time. Walter just laughed at them and practically threw them out of van access.

Michael had again decided to take Nikita to the cottage outside of Brussels. They had not really had any private time together since the takeover of Section. They had been extremely busy. Adam also had been sleeping with them because of his nightmares. Michael hoped that Lynnadaine was prepared for this. Michael knew that they scared the hell out of him. He had always hoped since Adam was born, that his son would never have to suffer the nightmares that he himself suffered. But this hope had been to no avail. Adam had survived too many hardships in his 5 years to not have nightmares.

Michael hoped that by taking Nikita to a familiar place, they could rekindle some of the passion they had shared in the cottage. Nikita again had no clue where they were going. She was just thankful that they were going to have some private time. She was not used to the constant demands that were now laying squarely on her shoulders. When Nikita finally realized where they were headed she smiled at Michael, took his hand and kissed the palm of it. She too had hoped for a way to rekindle the passion that was stoked inside both of them.

When they arrived at the cottage, both set about making the place cozy and comfortable. Michael lit a fire in the fireplace. Nikita went to the back and dug vegetables for their dinner and picked flowers to decorate the cottage with. Both sang along with the CD that was playing softly in the background. Both Nikita and Michael prepared dinner, quietly enjoying their own thoughts and expectations of their weekend away from Section.

************

Michael and Nikita began their relaxation weekend with a nice long soak in the large bathtub in the cottage. They had both needed this but had not realized it. They luxuriated in the warmth of the water and soothing feeling of the bubbles. Michael enjoyed just holding Nikita close to his body and allowing his hands to run lazily along her arms and back.

Nikita, for her part was deep in thought. She loved the feel of Michael’s arms around her. She wondered how she had been lucky enough to be able to deserve this kind of treatment. She had a solid job, even if she did not like all of the things she had to do; she had a loving partner that she knew would die for her if it came to that; his little boy loved her to no end and she returned that love. What else could she ask for? She had always thought she wanted freedom. She knew now that she could never survive freedom; either with or without Michael. She was no longer capable of functioning in a free world. It had been a rough realization but she now knew it to be true.

Nikita lifted Michael’s hand from the water and kissed his palm. She snuggled in closer to his body and laid her head back on his shoulder. Michael laid his head against hers after placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. Nikita sighed and snuggled closer.

“What’s the matter sweetheart? Is something wrong? You seem rather unsettled this evening. Have I done something to upset you?”

“ No Michael! You have not done anything to upset me. I was just thinking about how our lives have changed over the past few weeks. We have gone from cold operatives to even colder and more ruthless leaders. I have killed more people cold-bloddedly in the last four months than I have in my whole life in Section One. I am not sure if I like that

“Baby, I know that you have had a rough time lately. It has been hard for me to adjust too. We just have to trust in each other and hope and pray that things work out. So far, we have had the backing and the protection of Oversight. We also have a great group of operatives who have stood behind us in our endeavors. I am not sure how they will react though when we begin cracking down on some of the rule-breaking that they have been doing.”

“ I know Michael. Some of them have taken our leniency to the extreme. We will have to stop this activity. They won’t like it. Some will get to keep their perquisites, while others will have them completely removed. We just might have a mutiny on our hands.”

“We just will not allow a mutiny Nikita. We must maintain our tight hold on the reins of Section One. If we allow operatives to continue breaking the rules, we will be better off than when we were operatives ourselves. The only question is who do we allow to break the rules and who do we clamp down on?”

“Michael. I don’t care what we decide to do. The only ones I am concerned with are of course Walter and Birkoff. They have to be allowed some leeway. Can we agree on that?” As Michael nodded, Nikita continued. “The other request I have is from Davenport. He came to me last week and requested that I allow him to add an operative named Pam to his team. He trained her and he feels she is ready for the work. Now, not only does he want her on his team, he also wishes to promote her to his second-in-command. I told him I would speak to you about it because it is rather unorthodox for such a young operative to be second-in-command of the top team within Section. The only other concern I have about her appointment is the fact that they are lovers.”

“Really? And how pray tell did you come across this information, Nikita?”

Nikita smiled up at Michael. “Remember sweetheart, this is now a part of my job. I must know of everything going on within the Section.”

Michael laughed long and hard. “All right my dear. I see that you have already thought this through. He may assign Pam to his team and he may try her out as his second-in-command. But, under no circumstances is anyone else to find out that they are lovers! Is that clear? Make sure you stress that point to him. I would hate to have to cancel her if that information got out!”

Nikita smiled at Michael, exited the tub and drew him out after her. She planned to give him a back rub that he would not soon forget. She was so glad that he had noticed that she was unsettled. She could not have thought of a more perfect way to hook up Pam and Davenport.

************

Nikita took Michael to bed and gave him the most wonderful full body massage he had ever had. And Michael had had plenty in his lifetime. He loved the feel of Nikita’s hands on his bare skin. He knew the rough work she did. Hell he did the same thing. But, somehow, Nikita always managed to keep her hands soft. Never a callus or broken and jagged nail on her hands. And she always to be so gentle with him, even though she worked hard enough to get the kinks out of his muscles.

After Nikita had gotten his body very relaxed, Michael decided to return the favor. More times than not, Nikita put Michael to sleep with her ministrations. Tonight, however, he had vowed not to sleep. He wanted to give Nikita a full body massage as well. She had been working very hard and could use the relaxation. He wanted to make sure that they both benefited from this downtime this weekend.

Michael began with Nikita lying on her stomach. She had pulled her hair to the side as well as turning her face to the side so she could see him in her peripheral vision. Michael’s supple fingers began kneading the skin over her shoulder area, the pressure penetrating deeply in the firm and tight muscles. Nikita sighed, as she had not really realized how tired her muscles had become with the strain of her job. Nikita stretched like a lithe cat as Michael worked lower and lower on her back. She almost purred as Michael massaged her lower back near her kidneys. That part of her back had a chronic ache from all of the hours that she spent in heels, either walking or running in them.

Michael rhythmically massaged Nikita’s legs. He knew her major area of pain had always been her calves. He took great care with each calf, making sure to work out every knot he found there. By the time Michael had reached Nikita’s feet, he had noticed that her body was completely and totally relaxed. He smiled to himself as he watched her drift off to a peaceful sleep.

Michael chuckled quietly to himself. Most women that he had known in his lifetime would have expected him to make passionate love to them after giving them a massage like that. But Nikita was not pretentious like most of the women Michael had known. She knew she was safe enough in their shared love that she could actually sleep at a time like this. She knew that she had given Michael pleasure when she had given him a massage; she had never expected him to give her any more pleasure than the reciprocation of her own favor. Michael loved Nikita all the more for that.