Even as they were holding each other close, saying good bye at the train station, the ache began to form in Nikita’s heart. Knowing this might be the last time she would ever hold her precious Michael, Nikita didn’t want to let go. They confessed their love, promising to be together again one day, and with that he was gone.

The only love that Nikita had ever known was rolling out of the train station and with him he was taking her heart and soul. The worst part of it was, she knew there was nothing she could do to stop him. Adam needed a father, even more than Nikita needed Michael. Adam was just a child and needed someone to shelter him from the harsh realities of the world. She headed back to Section with a heavy heart.

She stood in the perch over looking the world that now belonged to her. The prison that had held her captive for the past seven years, and now she thought bitterly, she was the new warden. It would be her that would hold other people’s lives in her hands, it was her that would rob them of any hope of a normal life, or any of the luxuries that a free person takes for granted. She was now Operations, a title that brought with it a life of misery.

She could still smell Michael on her clothes and it made her long to be in his arms. He was the only person that could comfort her now and he was gone. Michael was the only person that had kept her in Section, the one person she couldn’t let go of. And because she stayed so many times to be with him, she had now been left behind.

With the love of her life gone, Nikita didn’t know if she would be able to go on. She grabbed her things and headed out of Section. Speeding down the road in her car, the top down, the bitter cold stinging her face. As she drove she began to cry and eventually pulled over on a deserted stretch of road. She gave herself over to the tears, deep gut wrenching sobs that came from the very depths of her soul. It certainly wasn’t the first time that she had allowed herself to mourn the loss of Michael and she knew that it would not be the last. As soon as she was able to compose herself she drove home, collapsing onto her bed to sleep away the pain.

Morning came much too quickly and Nikita was forced out of her bed to get ready for a new day. It was the start of her life without Michael. She stumbled to the bathroom and looked into the mirror.

Her make-up had run down her tear stained cheeks, leaving behind a road map of her pain. She jumped into the shower, hoping the warmth from the water would rejuvenate her, and it did, to a point. She then carefully chose her outfit, a pinstripe suit that portrayed power yet exuded her sensuality. It fit her form like a glove and she finished the look with a tight updo. With her precisely applied make-up, she was ready to take on Section.

She strolled in with an air that clearly displayed her new leadership. To those who had barely known Nikita, she looked like her same old self, maybe even more so. She was a striking figure who commanded attention wherever she went. To those who knew her well, they understood she had closed herself off to the world.

She ascended to the perch without so much as a word to anyone. The only friendly gesture she had managed was to look Walter in the eyes as she passed him. She had kept going, not even hesitating. He had expected a greeting and as she continued past him, his mouth was still a gape, his words hanging in the air.

Once in the perch, Nikita called for a briefing to be held in 30 minutes. She needed at least that long to pull herself together.

Though her mind was a jumble of thoughts, mostly of Michael, she managed to descend among the operatives exactly thirty minutes after her arrival at Section.

She began: "As you all know I am your new leader. From this moment forth I will be referred to as Operations. Now some of you may believe that I was given this position solely due to genetics. I can assure you that I have rightfully earned my place here. Anyone who deems me unfit as their leader can say so now, you will be politely and respectfully escorted to your cancellation..." She waited to see if anyone would challenge her. No one did. "Well, seeing as there is no opposition, you can all resume your work. I have to commend you on your wise choice not to challenge me." Nikita began to walk away but stopped short. With the air buzzing at the harsh, new Nikita/Operations, she turned to face them once more.

“By the way, I am not without a heart. There will be a memorial held later today for the late Operations and his beloved, Madeline. They carried Section One for many years and we all owe them a great deal of respect.” With that Nikita retreated to the perch once more.

Nikita kept the perch dark, so as not to be seen. She saw Walter staring intently up at the darkened perch and it brought a smile to her face. She sent for him, knowing that she needed someone she could connect to. As much as she wanted to shut out the entire world right now, it wasn’t in her. She craved and needed human contact maybe more so than anyone else at Section.

Within moments Walter appeared in the doorway. He stood there hesitantly, sizing up the situation. He did not know whom he was meeting, Operations or his Sugar. “Come in Walter, don’t just stand there.” Nikita beckoned and he knew it was his girl he was seeing, not the ruthless leader of Section.

“Hey sugar, quite the speech you made out there today.”

“Did you like it, Walter?” Nikita questioned him with a smirk and a chuckle. This was what she needed Walter for. Someone she could just be herself with.

“Yeah, it was great, spoken like a true leader of a covert antiterrorism agency. Very impressive. You’ve sure come a long way Sugar.” Though Walter said it as a joke, part of him knew his statement was true. She was already assuming her new role with ease and she truly had come a long way since the rebellious recruit she was seven years prior.

“Walter, what am I going to do?” Nikita asked, her voice trailing off as she finished the question.

However there was no time for an answer because Nikita was receiving an incoming message from Center. With her question hanging in the air like an ominous storm cloud, Nikita turned to Walter.

“Walter, I’m sorry but I have...” Before Nikita could finish her sentence Walter already had.

“...to take this. I understand Sugar.” And with that Walter departed from the perch. It was the first of many visits they would share, and the highlight of Nikita’s day, someone to keep her grounded, her focus, as he had been for so long while she was working undercover against the Section that she now controlled.

She didn’t meet up with Walter again until later that day. They were there early for the memorial. Nikita wore dark sunglasses to hide any emotion her eyes might give away. She went up to the closed caskets and stood silently. She prayed to God that Operations and Madeline were still alive. They were cold and ruthless, but if they were here, she wouldn't be stuck with their burden. A tear got away from her, surprising even herself. They had been very hard on her over the years but she would miss them. Walter was sobbing openly for their loss. He had worked under them for many years and though he hated them at times, he would miss their friendship, if one could call it that... When at last he felt he had his peace he reached for Nikita and guided her towards the door. She paused in the doorway to look back and said a silent prayer for their souls. Nikita had now officially said good-bye to everything in her past and was ready to take on her future...

Time passed, quickly in some regards, but life without Michael felt like an eternity. Nikita was kept very busy running Section, which she excelled at. Some saw her the way Paul was thought of, hard, cold, unrelenting. To some extent it was true, she was ruthless, but no more than any other Operations that had come before her.

Nikita did run things more humanely and over time it became to resemble the original Section, as Adrian had intended it. Still, everyone knew not to mess with Nikita. With her operatives, Nikita was all business, never showed emotion. No matter what she may have felt for the people working under her, she never allowed them to see it. Her face was unreadable, and it made her a formidable leader.

She wore her power the way Michael wore his pants, it just fit her.

When she was in the sanctuary of her perch she would let what she was feeling pour out, the loss of an operative or the joy of a successful mission. The only person she ever let in to her private world was Walter. He was there for the tears and laughter. To see her overcome her barriers and set new standards for whomever may succeed her position. But even with him, she would not open herself up completely. She never mentioned how much she missed Michael, or how she ached for him so badly sometimes she couldn’t even breath.

She would not tell him how she would look anxiously for him to be returning from a mission or how she longed to be in his arms. She couldn’t tell him how she would wake up in the middle of the night to find her pillow drenched in tears as she relived their last moments together at the train station. There was no one in the world who ever saw her raw emotions except Michael.

I loved you first: but afterwards your love,
...Outsoaring mine, sang such a loftier song
As drowned the friendly cooings of my dove.

...For one is both and both are one in love:
Rich love knows nought of 'thine that is not mine';
...Both have the strength and both the length thereof,
Both of us, of the love which makes us one.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet.

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

As the train rolled out of the station Michael and Adam settled their sleeping arrangements. Adam wanted the top bunk in their tiny compartment and Michael agreed. He wanted the bottom bunk so he could remain hidden in the darkness. Although he was free of Section now, Michael knew he would never truly be free. He would always have to look over his shoulder. He would never have a normal life, not in the way that most people get to have. But he wasn’t going to let Adam experience any more pain or loss in his life. That was his focus and Adam was going to be the reason and rhyme to Michael’s daily life.

Once Adam fell asleep Michael was left alone with his thoughts. He tried to concentrate on his new life with Adam but he could only think about Nikita. He thought about all the pain he had caused her over the years, his lies and deceptions on behalf of Section. He thought of how difficult it was to leave her behind in the train station. He saw her face contorted by the tears and he felt his own face give way to the pain he was feeling now. He was amazed that Nikita still loved him after all he had done to her. And when all was said and done he left her. He knew in his heart it was not the end for them, because without her in his life, it wouldn’t be worth living. Adam meant the world to him but Nikita had his mind, body, and soul. He knew that they were destined to be together, that there was a higher force working to see things end up that way and he made a promise to himself right there in the dark of his bottom bunk, “some day we will be together again Nikita, and I will never let go of this hope.” It was hard for him to say the words through his tears but it was important to him to say it. Little did he know someone above him heard his words and smiled at the promise.

Michael knew that he had to distance himself, at least physically, from his old life. He took Adam to the United States. They settled down in the midwest. Michael had found a piece of land for sale, about 150 acres in all, on the outskirts of Detroit. He had an enormous home built for him and Adam. While he designed the house, he always kept Nikita in mind. In the master suite he had a giant tub installed so that when his beloved was able to join him they could relax for hours in their spacious bath. Out back they had a nice deck that would be perfect for breezy summer dinner’s and at night a romantic spot for Michael and Nikita to retreat to. There they could hold each other close and gaze up at the stars. Still, that was in the future and he had to live in the present. He had to establish a life for him and Adam.

Michael and Adam settled in to a routine that served them well. Michael would wake up early and cook them both breakfast. When the food was almost done Michael would wake Adam and bring him downstairs. They would eat breakfast, Adam still half asleep and his hair a mess. Then Michael would clean the kitchen as Adam got ready for school. Michael would drive him there, and then return home for his morning run. Michael would shower and dress for the day and spend it taking care of odds and ends. No matter what his plans for the day were, he was always prompt at picking up his son. They would have an after school snack together, and talk about Adam’s day at school. Adam always had stories to tell Michael. Sometimes it was about the kid who ate glue during art class, or maybe who got in trouble with the teacher, but his favorite were the spy games he and his friends played during recess. Adam said his friends agreed he was the best spy, and Adam thought maybe he could be a spy when he grew up. He could fight bad guys and save the world. This always made Michael cringe because he wanted to spare Adam from that life at all costs.

After their snack Adam would do his homework and then he had free time to do as he pleased until supper time. Usually Adam would help Michael make supper and they would cover any details Adam may have missed during snack time. Once supper was complete Adam and Michael would take a walk together and then sit on their deck staring up at the night sky. It was during those times that Adam pondered all of life’s mysteries and Michael had to supply him with answers. It was during their star gazing that Adam first mentioned Nikita.

“Daddy, do you ever think that at this very moment Nikita might be looking up at the same sky? She might be looking at the same stars we are and thinking about us?”

“Actually Adam, when it is night for us, it is early morning for Nikita so I think she is probably in bed right now.” Michael thought this would be the end of the Nikita discussion.

“Well then, do you think she is dreaming about us? Maybe in her dream she sees us sitting here, looking at the sky and thinking about her.” Adam said this with the kind of innocence only a child can possess.

“She may be Adam. I can’t say for sure what Nikita is dreaming about. I hope it is us.” Michael hadn’t meant to say that last part, but it just slipped out. He hoped and prayed everyday that Nikita missed him just as much as he missed her.

“Well Daddy, I hope that she is thinking about us too because I miss her. I want her to come and live with us and be my Mom. I want you guys to get me a little brother or a sister. And we could have a dog, and then we could all play together here in the fields and the woods. You and Nikita could each hold my hands and swing me through the air as we walk together. And...” Adam would have just kept going with all of his plans for Nikita as his future mom, but Michael cut him off.

“Adam, I don’t think that can happen for a while yet. Nikita has a very important job that she can’t leave. She is a boss to a lot of people and they need her to guide them. She makes very important decisions everyday. What she does helps to keep the world a safer place for you and me to live in. Do you understand?”

“Yes, Daddy. So when can Nikita come to live with us?” Adam looked up at Michael waiting expectantly for a definitive answer. Michael sighed, a sound that came right from his broken heart.

“I don’t know when Adam. Can we stop talking about Nikita now?”

“Ok Daddy, I can see it hurts you to talk about her.”

The truth that Adam could see so clearly made Michael think, was he really that transparent? He tried so hard to hide his pain from Adam. He didn’t want Adam to ever think, not even for a second, that he wasn’t completely happy just being with him. But Adam was a very smart boy and it didn’t surprise Michael that he knew something was bothering Michael. He scooped his son into his arms, holding him tight, breathing in his scent. He told him that he loved him with all of his heart. Adam said the same, and then the tired little boy fell asleep in his father’s strong embrace. Michael stayed that way until his body had fallen asleep under Adam’s weight. He decided that it was time to tuck him into bed.

I loved you first: but afterwards your love,
...Outsoaring mine, sang such a loftier song
As drowned the friendly cooings of my dove.

...For one is both and both are one in love:
Rich love knows nought of 'thine that is not mine';
...Both have the strength and both the length thereof,
Both of us, of the love which makes us one.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet.

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

Nikita awoke to the dream again. Every time she dreamt of the train station it was like losing Michael all over again. Her pillow was drenched in her tears and she felt hollow inside. She curled up into a ball with the covers pulled tight underneath her chin. She was able to get through the day without Michael but at night he consumed her every thought. Not having him there with her was hell on earth.

She thought of the saying “It is better to have loved and lost then to never have loved at all.” She knew that whoever had said this had never experienced love. If they had they would know that not having that love in your life was the worst torture one could endure.

As night faded into day Nikita began readying herself to go in to Section. At least she felt some peace there because she was too busy to think about Michael. It was sad she thought to herself, that the one place she never wanted to be was now the only place she felt peace. She had thrown herself completely into her work and as a result was clearly the best Operations Section had seen. Even Paul had been distracted from his work by his feelings for Madeline but Nikita was alone in her job. She could think clearly and objectively about every situation that was presented to her. She hardly ever took downtime, unless her and Walter wanted to get out of Section for awhile. He was the father Nikita had always longed for. Because they were so close he could sense that Nikita felt a deep loss over Michael. She never mentioned it to him but he could tell that over time the separation from Michael was getting worse not better. One day while they were out, Walter decided to broach the subject.

“Sugar, is there something bothering you?” Walter waited for Nikita to finish sipping her coffee to get a reply.

“No, why do you ask?” Nikita forced a smile to prove everything was all right. Everything was going well at Section so Nikita didn’t see why Walter would ask her such a question.

“Well, it just seems that there is a sadness in your eyes that grows stronger every day. I know that it is about Michael. I think you should try and contact him.” Walter held his breath, not knowing how Nikita would respond. He knew this would be a very sensitive subject and though he needed to be blunt he also had to proceed with caution.

Nikita was taken aback by Walter’s questions and comments. She didn’t know how to reply so she just gave him a look that was cold as ice.

“You can’t shut me out Nikita, no matter how much you may want to. I know you almost as well as Michael knows you. Whether or not you admit what you are feeling, I can see it in your eyes, hear the sorrow in your voice. It is there, maybe not detectable to anyone else in Section but I see it. And it is killing me to see you hurt so much.” Walter knew he may have crossed a line but he had to say it. He couldn’t just watch her suffer the way she was.

Nikita tried to speak, but she couldn’t form words. A lump had begun to form in her throat and tears were welling up in her eyes. The more she tried to fight it, the less power she had over her emotions and the tears began to stream down her cheeks. Walter reached out and grabbed her hand tenderly but it only served to make her cry harder.

“Let’s get out of here, Nikita. We can walk and maybe you will find it easier to talk to me if we are not sitting face to face.” Walter gently led her away from the table. With his arm loosely around her he began to guide her down the street. She went with him willingly knowing that she needed to do this.

“Walter, the nights are the worst,” she sobbed, “I can’t get Michael out of my mind. During the day I am busy and it isn’t so bad. But at night I go home to my apartment and the quiet. Sometimes I think of the stolen moments we shared and it warms me some, remembering his touch, his caress, the way we made love. But so many times I see him leaving me behind. Knowing that he is out there and I can’t be with him. That hurts the most. It would be easier for me if he were dead. At least then I could accept our separation. But to know he is out there somewhere without me. What if he finds someone else Walter? He said we would be together again. But what if he moves on, gives up on us?”

Nikita’s fear and pain continued to pour forth and Walter just soaked it all in. He mostly listened and let her get everything she was feeling out in the open. He knew that is what she needed most. When she was done, Walter had only one thing to say.

“Nikita, no matter what happens you will always be Michael’s one true love. You are destined to be together and I know that someday, it will happen. I can’t tell you when, or how, but I know in my heart that you will be together and there is nothing in this world that will tear you apart. A love like the one you and Michael share is so powerful, your connection so true, it is a gift from God himself and God never takes back His gifts. He will make sure they flourish and grow stronger over time.”

“Since when did you get so religious Walter?” Nikita smiled at him, feeling immensely better having shared her pain with her friend.

“There is a lot you don’t know about this old man.” Walter winked and left it at that. Their discussion was over. Walter walked Nikita home and then he headed home himself. It had been a long and trying day for them both.

I loved you first: but afterwards your love,
...Outsoaring mine, sang such a loftier song
As drowned the friendly cooings of my dove.

...For one is both and both are one in love:
Rich love knows nought of 'thine that is not mine';
...Both have the strength and both the length thereof,
Both of us, of the love which makes us one.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet.

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

Once home Nikita settled in for a nice warm bath and a glass of wine. She used the scented bath oil that she knew Michael adored. It made her smile, being surrounded by the warm water, the fragrance of the bath oil, and thoughts of Michael. All of a sudden her peaceful world was shattered by the sound of her phone ringing. What is it now? Nikita thought irritably to herself. She knew it had to be Section or Center and she was just beginning to relax and feel good. She grabbed for her cell, dripping soapy water on the floor.

“Josephine,” she heard whispered seductively into her ear. She gasped, assuming it was the wine playing tricks on her. In her shock she dropped her phone and it fell noisily onto the bathroom floor. She struggled to pick it back up.

“He-he-hello.” Nikita had trouble getting the word out.

“Nikita, are you all right?” There was that sexy voice again, and this time she began to believe it was Michael.

“Michael, is that really you?” Nikita questioned, praying that it was, knowing that it was her love, but it seemed too good to be true.

“It is.” Michael could picture Nikita’s face, at least the way he hoped she looked right now, reacting to the surprise of his phone call. He knew she was in the tub, he had heard the water splashing when she had lunged to pick up the fallen phone. Not to mention he could detect the echoing sound that is always present in bathrooms.

“I have needed to hear your voice for so long, Michael. Today was probably the worst day since you left me but now, talking to you it is better.”

“Did something happen Nikita?” Michael already knew the answer. He and Walter kept in touch so he knew everything that had transpired that day.

“Walter and I had lunch today and our conversation was less than pleasant. He brought up some very painful things for me and it was a long day. But none of that matters now because I am talking with you.”

Nikita’s face was glowing with joy knowing that Michael was on the phone.

“What did you and Walter talk about?” Michael was toying with her, seeing if she would admit to him how badly she missed him. He waited expectantly to hear her answer.

“Nothing much, like I said it doesn’t matter now.” Nikita tried to brush it off. She didn’t want to admit that she had been in tears all afternoon over him. She knew that Michael would never intentionally hurt her again but she couldn’t be that vulnerable with him. Not right now.

Their conversation went on for an hour, both taking turns catching the other one up on their lives. Both needing to say more than they dared to say. To admit to the emptiness they were feeling was beyond what they could share right now. When they hung up they promised each other it would work out. They pledged their love for all eternity and then they hung up. That night they both went to bed with a warmth in their hearts that helped to battle the pain.

The morning after Michael’s phone call Nikita awoke early with an idea. She was on downtime so she dressed casually and headed to the mall. She went to the store where Michael had purchased most of his wardrobe and picked out his favorite black shirt. She bought a dozen of them and continued on to her next destination. She went to the counter where they sold Michael’s cologne and she bought a bottle.

She decided that whenever it got really bad, missing Michael, she could put on one of these shirts, wear some of his cologne and feel a little closer to him. It was neurotic she admitted to herself but it was the best she could have right now. That and his phone calls which she hoped would come on a regular basis.

Michael still wasn’t sure if calling Nikita would make their separation harder on them both but he knew he needed to hear her voice more often. Their connection was so strong that even over the phone he could feel their chemistry. As much joy as talking to her last night had brought him, he still ached for her. He needed to hold her again, to breath in her smell, to taste her, to make love to her tirelessly through the night. He knew it was time to call in a favor...

First a week went by, then two and then three. Nikita had not heard anymore from Michael. She felt rejected and hurt even more than she had before. Then she wondered if something had happened to Michael and Adam. She became bitter towards her operatives without even realizing it. She was distant with Walter and when they did talk she usually ended up snapping at him. It seemed as though Walter knew she was going through something right now. He was never put off by her short fuse. She regretted the way she talked to him but was grateful he understood without questioning her.

At night Nikita would go home, put on one of her Michael shirts, spray some cologne, have a glass of wine, and go to bed dreaming of Michael. Sometimes when she would awake to the smell of his cologne she would think for a second that Michael was there with her. Her heart would beat wildly with excitement but then reality would sink in and disappointment would soon follow. With all of the turmoil she was in, it was a miracle she was able to stay on top of things at Section but her pain was fuel to work off of.

Michael had finalized all of his plans and set out to see Nikita. He couldn’t wait to hold her again for it had been far too long. The plane seemed to be moving in slow motion as it soared above the ocean but he knew it was bringing him closer to his love. In the whole time that he was busy making arrangements to visit her, he never once called Nikita. He was too afraid that he would slip up and tell her, ruining his surprise. He knew she had expected to hear from him, he had promised he would call. He hoped that she wouldn’t be angry when she saw him.

I loved you first: but afterwards your love,
...Outsoaring mine, sang such a loftier song
As drowned the friendly cooings of my dove.

...For one is both and both are one in love:
Rich love knows nought of 'thine that is not mine';
...Both have the strength and both the length thereof,
Both of us, of the love which makes us one.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet.

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

When he arrived he went to his hotel room and showered. As eager as he was to see Nikita he needed to get some sleep to build up his strength for what was to come. As soon as he felt rested he went over to Nikita’s apartment. He knew that she would be busy all day with missions. He lounged about waiting for her, hardly able to contain his excitement. He was so close now that he couldn’t wait for her to return home.

It had been a tough day for Nikita. Half of the missions had gone wrong. There had been faulty intel and it seemed as if there was a mole in Oversight. She was physically and mentally fatigued by the time she got home. All she wanted was to run a hot bath and go to bed.

She entered her apartment and began tossing her things about. She draped her coat over a chair, her handbag on the table. She kicked off her shoes and headed towards the bathroom. Sighing heavily she crossed the space to her bathroom and stopped short, there was light glowing from the bathroom, candlelight to be exact. She reached for her gun and cautiously threw open the door. There sat Michael in a tub filled with bubbles and candles were everywhere. The candles set the room aglow with a soft and sensual light.

“Michael,” she squealed.

“You know, there is something about a beautiful woman with a gun that puts me in a romantic mood,” Michael teased.

Nikita was so happy to see Michael that she jumped into the tub fully clothed. She was on top of him pulling him closer to her, bringing her lips to his, tasting him. She pulled back then, just to look at him, his beautiful face, making sure it was really true, that he was here with her.

She caressed his face, her hands roaming over what was rightfully hers. He grabbed her hand and brought it gently to his lips, kissing it tenderly while staring deeply into her eyes. She moaned, tossing her head back in the air. He then pressed his lips to her neck. She loved the way he felt against her and having their bodies intwined was heaven on earth. She slid her hand free from his grasp putting it on the back of his neck to pull him close to her again. They kissed deeply, passionately. Their hands began to wander over each other's bodies, reaffirming every inch of them was still the same.

Their kisses were slow and sweet, they wanted to savor every moment, committing it all to memory. Nikita began to remove her clothing but the wet sloshing in the bathtub brought them both to laughter as she struggled to undress. The mood temporarily broken, Michael spoke first.

“This isn’t exactly how I had planned it. I didn’t think that you would jump in here with your clothes on.” Michael said chuckling.

“Well, I’ve always been a bit impulsive, acting on my emotions. Isn’t that what Section always said about me?” She began to maneuver her way out of the tub. By now the floor was all wet from the water that had splashed out of the tub. When Nikita went to plant her foot on the ground she slipped, falling back onto Michael’s lap.

“Let me help you,” Michael offered.

“Always a gentleman, aren’t you,” Nikita teased.

“Not always.” There was a gleam in his eyes.

In one swift movement Michael had lifted Nikita out of the tub and carried her to the bedroom where they resumed their activities. He further assaulted her skin with his lips, something she had been missing since the moment he left. He covered every inch of her with kisses that left her skin ablaze. His touch was the most incredible torture. It was enough to drive her over the edge and yet she wanted more. She never wanted to live without his touch again. He continued to love her as if it never would end. They were possessed by their need and neither one would give it up until their bodies gave out due to sheer exhaustion.

Their reunion brought them to a place where only they existed. It was a night of exquisite bliss for them both, filling the void they had been feeling for so long. After hours of making love they finally collapsed into each other's arms, their bodies still tingling from the love they had shared. Holding each other close, feeling their hearts beating as one, it seemed as though all was right in the world.

“ And my plans for the evening had been to come home, take a hot bath, and go straight to sleep,” Nikita said playfully.

“I’m sorry to have ruined your plans,” Michael tried to sound remorseful.

“That’s ok, yours were better,” Nikita smiled. She turned her head and kissed his bare chest. They both fell sound asleep their bodies still holding the other tightly, never wanting to let go again.

As daylight crept into Nikita’s bedroom she found herself alone. She was terrified that it had all been a dream but even now she was aglow from the previous night’s activities. She knew that Michael was there with her, at least he had been. She wondered where he was now. Just then a soft breeze fluttered the sheers around her balcony the wind chilling her exposed skin. Pulling the sheets tighter to her body she felt empty, thinking he had left without saying goodbye. Just then Michael appeared from the balcony. The sunlight behind him lighting him like an angel from Heaven.

“There you are,” Nikita purred, still groggy from sleep but feeling completely at peace.

“Good morning, Nikita. Did you sleep well?” Michael could not take his eyes off of Nikita. Yet he felt a stab of pain knowing that this was only a visit. He would have to return to Adam.

“Sleep was good but it wasn’t the best thing I had last night,” Nikita said mischievously. “And I am jealous that you got a head start on the day without me.” She sat there on the bed, drinking in the sight of Michael, part of her wondering why he had come, part of her wondering where Adam was, but most of her not even caring about the details.

“Well, I will help you catch up.” Michael scooped Nikita off the bed and carried her to the bathroom. He ran a warm bath for her and lovingly placed her into the tub. He began to shampoo her hair, gently massaging her scalp. He wanted much more right now, and so did she but they needed some time to talk.

As Michael’s magic touch made Nikita clean they talked about everything that was going on in their lives. They were both very successful at what they were doing. Hearing about Michael’s life with Adam made Nikita feel empty inside. She knew that Adam was still wherever Michael and he lived. He was nowhere near them and that meant only one thing... Michael was not here for good. He was only here for now. She shuddered at the thought that he would be leaving her and Michael stopped, a look of concern sweeping over his face.

“Did I hurt you?” Michael worried that maybe his touch had been too aggressive. Nikita didn’t reply. “Is something wrong, Nikita?”

“Yes and no,” she managed biting back her tears. They had already formed in her eyes but she willed them not to spread any further.

She stood up and gingerly stepped out of the tub. Michael was still kneeling beside it, wondering what had gone wrong. He quickly stood to offer her a robe which she pulled around her body and closed tightly around her slender waist. The pain in her eyes was unmistakable and Michael wondered anxiously what had changed her demeanor so quickly.

“Michael, tell me honestly right now and I will not ask anything more of you while you’re here. Are you here to stay?” Nikita knew the answer already but she had to hear it from him to make it real. Until he spoke the words she could hope and wish that he was staying forever.

He stared straight into her eyes, holding her pensive but steady gaze. “Nikita, you know I can not stay.” The words tore at his heart as much as it did hers.

“That is all I needed to know,” And with that all her anguish seemed to disappear. It made Michael’s heart stop cold, was she really that anxious to have him leave? He had feared that she moved on, no longer needing him or the love he felt so deeply. Nikita saw the look of hurt and bewilderment on his face and realized his thoughts before he could find the words to express them.

“Michael, please understand... I am not happy to see you go, because when you do, my heart will break all over again. But at least I know what I am facing and I want to cherish each moment we have together.” She walked towards him, kissing him deeply but so tenderly it removed all doubt from his mind about her love. When she pulled back she could see the relief on his face.

From that moment on they wasted not one precious moment. Nikita took downtime for an indefinite period of time. She didn’t care what anyone thought at Section. She needed this time to be with Michael.

He was the love of her life and she was going to live.
I loved you first: but afterwards your love,
...Outsoaring mine, sang such a loftier song
As drowned the friendly cooings of my dove.

...For one is both and both are one in love:
Rich love knows nought of 'thine that is not mine';
...Both have the strength and both the length thereof,
Both of us, of the love which makes us one.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet.

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

They spent their days making love from morning until night and to morning again. They languished in their love and stopped only to eat on a rare occasion. They made up for all the times they were apart and made sure to create enough memories to sustain them during their next separation. There was a desperation and a neediness that made them feel each sensation more powerful than the time before.

Sometimes, when they were gathering their strength, they would act like any normal couple. They would lie around the apartment, watching the television or doing crosswords. Whatever they did, they were always touching, needing the physical closeness they had craved for so long.

One night Michael announced that he would be leaving in the morning. He had been there with Nikita for a month. He needed to return to Adam. That night was the most blissful evening they ever spent together. Their kisses soft and tender, their caresses long and meaningful. When it was over they lay spent in each others arms and fell into the most peaceful slumber.

The next morning Nikita awoke to see Michael finishing up his packing. He was nearly ready to go and still had not even awaken her. She suddenly felt resentful, wondering if he had planned on slipping away.

She jumped from the bed, pulling her robe on as she went. She glided silently into the living room, observing him, the way the light played off his beautiful face. The familiar ache was beginning to form in her heart. She wondered how the world could be so cruel. How could she be given a love like this and never be able to be with him?

“Trying to slip off without saying goodbye?” She asked him, her voice revealing the pain that was coursing through her.

“Never, but I had to be ready to go. If I wasn’t I may not be able to leave. If I had to see you watching me pack, knowing that I was leaving and you weren’t coming too... I might not be strong enough to leave.” He knew his eyes were giving away the depths of his anguish but he couldn’t hide his feelings from her.

“So don’t be strong,” Nikita pleaded, “stay with me Michael.” She knew it was wrong to ask, she knew he had to go back to Adam. But she couldn’t help it, she couldn’t let him leave without a fight. She didn’t know if she was strong enough to lose him again.

“Nikita, I have to go back to Adam. He needs me.” Suddenly Michael felt like he was back in the train station again, seeing it all play out for a second time. Then he saw all the lonely months he had spent without her and the pain that had followed.

“I know. I’ve heard this line before,” Nikita said bitterly. “I know you have to leave me here. But Michael please don’t. I need you more than anything else in this world. Please, we can find a way to make it work. I can’t bear to be apart until Adam doesn’t need you anymore. He is always going to need you. And so will I.” She was crying now, tears of hurt, of pain, and of anger. He was going to leave her again, and she would once more be trapped in the world of Section.

“Come with me,” Michael said it urgently, pleadingly. It surprised even him that he said it. He had promised himself he wouldn’t ask her to make that choice. She was stunned.

“Michael, you know I can’t go. I have to get back to Section, I am Operations now, remember? It is a miracle I was able to stay away this long.” As much as Nikita wanted to leap into his arms and tell Michael she would go with him it angered her that he wanted her to make all the compromises.

“Nikita, if you wanted to walk away from Section, you could. There would be nothing to stop you...” He was begging now, he needed her to come with him.

“Michael, I was born to run Section. I can’t turn my back on my destiny the way that you do on yours. You know we are meant to be together and yet you leave me. You turn your back on where you are meant to be and go at things your own way. Maybe that works for you, but I can’t do it.” Her words were hot with anger but inside she was a mess.

Michael was taken aback by Nikita’s words and they cut him deep into his already aching heart. He responded quietly: “Nikita, we are meant to be. I know that one day we will be together and never again be forced to leave each other’s side. I have never turned my back on my destiny because my destiny is you and I carry you with me always in my heart. It is you that has chosen to keep this distance between us. You are willing to live a life apart from me to lead a place you despise. I can not understand your choice but I love you and respect your decision. It makes things harder for us but not impossible. I love you Nikita, you have my mind, heart, and soul. I will never love another. You are my love, and I will wait for you to join me when you are ready.”

With his words still swirling around Nikita, Michael brought her into his arms. He hugged her and kissed her, tasting their tears in the kiss. He knew that if he held her any longer he would not be able to do what he must, so he let her go. He grabbed his things from her apartment and disappeared out the door.

I loved you first: but afterwards your love,
...Outsoaring mine, sang such a loftier song
As drowned the friendly cooings of my dove.

...For one is both and both are one in love:
Rich love knows nought of 'thine that is not mine';
...Both have the strength and both the length thereof,
Both of us, of the love which makes us one.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet.

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

As Michael journeyed home to Adam he relived every moment of the past month he had spent with Nikita. As hard as their goodbye had been, he knew it had been worth it to see her again. It pained him that Section had such a hold on her. All she had ever wanted was to be free and now when she could at last be free, she chose to remain its prisoner. The tears rolled down his cheeks freely. He cried until he was out of tears but even then the torment didn’t stop.

Alone again, Nikita resumed her work at Section but Michael’s words haunted her, as did the delicious memories of the month they had shared together. Even while she was at Section Michael was always on her mind. She couldn’t escape him no matter what she did. She dreamt every night that she would wake up to find him lying beside her, but when she did wake up, she was alone in her bed. She hated Michael for leaving her again but loved him all the more for being such a devoted father. With frustration, contentment, loneliness, and love churning inside her Nikita would drift back to sleep.

Some time had passed before Walter dared mention Nikita’s absence to her. She knew that it was inevitable, Walter was bound to question her eventually. She was certain that Walter knew how she had spent her month away and with whom. The day finally came when they were enjoying a light lunch in the Tower. Nikita refused to stay there but had decided it would suffice for some quiet time for her and Walter to converse freely. They were just finishing up their meal of pasta primavera and white wine when Walter slid it into the conversation.

“You look quite content since returning from your downtime, Sugar. Wherever you went and whatever you did surely agreed with you.”

“Yes it did,” Nikita replied coyly, a mischievous sparkle in her blue eyes.

“So tell me, where is this magnificent place you visited? Maybe it would be beneficial to me as well.”

“I don’t know about that Walter.” Nikita was unable to stifle a giggle with that thought.

“Ah, it must have been someplace only good enough for Operations, huh? Not for some lowly old man whose life has been dedicated to Section and who is in need of a good, long vacation, maybe even retirement...”

“Retirement? Never. As long as I am here at Section so you shall be. I can’t do this without a cantankerous old man around to amuse me.”

“Cantankerous? Me? Old man? Just who do you think you are talking about?” Walter questioned with mock anger.

“You know exactly who I am talking about,” Nikita teased, “And more to the point of this conversation, I think you already know who I was with. Still, I will play your game, I was with... da-da-dumm...drum roll please.”

“Michael” They both said at the same time, laughing.

“So, how is he?”

“Good. Better than me I must admit. He is free.” Nikita’s voice trailed off there, and her blue eyes gazed into space.

“Well, Michael is better off than all of us in that regard Sugar. But you have to admit that Section has improved under your leadership.”

“Yeah, from hell to a maximum security prison? It is still hell for me not having Michael in my life.”

“Did you ever stop to think that you are living in a hell you have created?”

“Walter you have always been a little zany, but this one takes the cake. I didn’t create Section, remember? Adrian did. I was dragged into it, kicking and screaming. I was torn from my life to be held here, probably forever...” The thought saddened her, resigning herself to a life of involuntary servitude

“You may have not created Section but you chose to stay here. That is when and how you created your own hell Nikita. Most of us don’t have the power or luxury to ever leave this place but you do. You can and yet you don’t. For someone as intelligent as yourself, you can be pretty dumb sometimes.”

His words angered her but getting beyond her anger she knew that they were very familiar. It was the same as Michael’s farewell speech. She had suspected they kept in contact but she didn’t know they shared the same brain. They both were stuck on the idea that she chose to be where she was. How were they so blind to the truth? She only wished what they believed was true. Then she could be with her love and leave these days behind her.

“Walter, how dare you say I choose to live like this! All I have ever wanted from Section was my freedom. Even now it is my greatest wish. Then I could spend my days with Michael and Adam. Do you really believe that I would choose this over the only man I have ever loved?” Her words spat at Walter, her blue eyes were narrow slits, only a glimpse of their iciness visible.

“I never would have believed it, but then you chose to stay here. So it isn’t a matter of what I believe it is what I know.”

“I promised my father that I would run Section. It was his dying wish and he sacrificed his life so that Michael could have his son. I can’t turn my back on destiny Walter.”

“Yet you are doing just that. Nikita, it is time I told you a few things. I must apologize that I didn’t tell you sooner but I was hoping you would figure it out on your own. Since that doesn’t seem to be the case I must ask you now to just sit and listen to me. Don’t interrupt because I have a lot to say.”

Nikita just sat there, she nodded her head in agreement to his instructions. She pushed her anger aside and listened to what Walter had to tell her.

“First off, your father loved you very much. It was never his intention for you to suffer the way you have. He has always wanted what was best for you believe it or not. He watched you all of your life but never got involved. He was trying to keep you from being tracked to him. He knew what it would mean for you if anyone knew he was your father. As you grew he saw the makings of a future leader for his organization and it terrified him. He knew that the Sections were out of control and needed to be stopped. His colleagues wanted to create a duo that would save the Sections and restore its original purpose. They had already found half of the solution in Michael but knew that he was lacking. They began a quest to find the other half. This twosome would eventually lead Center. So the other half would have to be someone extraordinary. It would be someone who had a strong will, could think for themselves, had compassion, and a soul. There was no one left in Section that met the criteria. He knew it was only a matter of time before they would find you.” Walter paused there, letting some of what he had said sink in.

Nikita had a hard time believing what Water told her and her head was beginning to spin. Before she could start asking questions, Walter continued the story.

“Nikita, you will never know how much joy you brought to his heart. It hurt him deeply to know that you were forced into a world gone terribly wrong. Still even he couldn’t deny you were born to lead Nikita but not alone.”

“Michael. My other half is Michael.” Nikita interrupted, smiling at that thought. “I was born to lead Section with Michael at my side.”

“Well, that is part of it but you are missing the big picture Nikita. Yes, they knew that you and Michael would be the perfect team. Though they had never planned on your romance. Your father was delighted because he felt that maybe all of the suffering you had endured on his behalf had only served to strengthen you to accept such an intense love. Most people couldn’t handle the love that you and Michael have. When he saw what had developed between the two of you he started making plans of his own. You were clearly the heirs to the most powerful position the world has ever known but he wanted so much more than that for you. He wanted what any father wants for his daughter. He wanted you to be happy.”

“Walter, what are you telling me? That he found a way for Michael and I to be together and live a normal life?” Now Nikita was beaming, realizing that her long held dream may be reality.

“I don’t know for sure Nikita. He didn’t divulge the details to me. That will be for you to find out.”

“I have so many questions for you Walter. I don’t even know where to start.” Nikita was gushing with hope and wonderment at what she was hearing. Her spirit felt lighter than it had since the day Michael had showed up in her apartment.

“Sorry Sugar, no time for that now. Your future is about to begin. You have a plane to catch.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I told you, you don’t seem to be able to figure things out on your own. Must I tell you everything? You have already managed to straighten out Section One but you have more to do than just that. It is time to move up the corporate ladder. Get your things you have a flight to catch.”

With a quick kiss on the cheek Walter sent Nikita on her way. She had no idea where she was headed but it didn’t matter. She felt a rush of joy because she knew that she would be with Michael soon, very soon.

I loved you first: but afterwards your love,
...Outsoaring mine, sang such a loftier song
As drowned the friendly cooings of my dove.

...For one is both and both are one in love:
Rich love knows nought of 'thine that is not mine';
...Both have the strength and both the length thereof,
Both of us, of the love which makes us one.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet.

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

After boarding the plane she settled in for a long flight, not knowing what lay ahead of her except that Michael was somewhere on the horizon. She fell into a fitful sleep with Michael filling her dreams. She also dreamed of her father who turned out to be a warmer and kinder man than she had ever imagined. She wished she had known him better but was grateful for the little time she did get with him. As the flight dragged on her dreams faded away and she started to get the much needed rest her body longed for.

Michael was busy preparing for Nikita’s arrival. Walter had called as soon as she had boarded the plane. He couldn’t wait to see her again, knowing this time they would be together for the rest of their lives. All of the planning that he and Mr. Jones had done so long ago was finally coming together. He wished for a moment that Mr. Jones could be there to see his dreams for Nikita come to pass.

Michael had met Mr. Jones a few years before. He was summoned to Center for a mysterious meeting. He couldn’t think of a single reason why Mr. Jones, the head of Center would want to see him. It turned out Michael and Mr. Jones had a lot in common, much to Michael’s amazement. They both were legends and mysteries in their own right, and had dedicated their lives to fighting causes they believed in. Most importantly was their deep love and devotion to one woman, Nikita. He gave Michael his blessing for their relationship asking only one favor in return, to love Nikita for all time and keep her safe. Mr. Jones wanted her to have all of the love she missed out on as a child. They mapped out their future and then parted ways, not meeting again until shortly before his untimely demise.

The house was alive with action, everyone bustling about making last minute preparations. Michael insisted the house be perfect for Nikita. It would be her first time here and he wanted her first impression to be a good one. He was about to receive his love into his home, soon to be their home. Adam was the most excited, running around chanting “I get to see Nikita. Nikita is coming to live with me.” Though he was clearly getting in the way of a very busy staff, everyone shared his excitement. As he darted this way and that causing near collisions and sometimes a dropped armful of goods, he brought smiles to all he encountered.

Nikita awoke most of the way through her flight. She still didn’t know where she was headed, but the excitement she felt was like a little kid on the night before Christmas. She was beaming from ear to ear by the time the plane touched down. She hurried off the plane, past the pilot and her body guards. She stopped short to ask the grounds crew where the rest room was. The startled young man was thrown by her beauty and energy. He stared blankly at her until she repeated her question. This time he just pointed weakly in the general direction and grimaced at her. With a genuine thanks Nikita was off.

Once in the bathroom she carefully inspected herself in the mirror. She brushed her hair, which by now had grown long again. She decided to leave it down, hanging loosely. It matched her upbeat mood. She freshened her make-up but made sure that she looked natural. Michael had seen her in all stages of her beauty routine. He had seen her at her best and her worst so she opted for somewhere in between. She reapplied her mascara, and blush, then finished her make-up with a clear gloss on her lips. She had no choice about her outfit, she had not been allowed time to pack anything. She was told it would all be taken care of. Luckily she was wearing one of her favorite outfits today, a cream colored turtleneck sweater that skimmed her figure but left some things to the imagination. She had paired it with cream colored slacks that fit just so. She was also wearing leather boots that were the exact same color beige as her floor length suede coat. She smiled at herself in the mirror and turned, leaving the bathroom. She was ready to see Michael again.

“Daddy, when is Nikita going to get here?” Adam had been asking Michael that question an awful lot today. He smiled at his son’s excitement, knowing it didn’t even come close to his own.

“Soon. Very soon.” Michael’s mind then drifted to his plans for the day, and all the days to follow. He had decided that it was time to make their love official in the last possible way. Nikita didn’t know it but they were going to be wed today on their property. He wanted everything about their new union, professional and personal to spell out forever. Besides, Michael didn’t want to share this home with his girlfriend, his lover... He wanted to share it with his wife. He knew from the first moment he saw her that their souls were bonded for all eternity and now he wanted to remove any doubt in her mind about his love for her.

As the car that was transporting Nikita grew closer to it’s destination Nikita felt a tingling sensation sweep through her. She was close to Michael now and she had this feeling that something big was happening. She couldn’t put her finger on it, but she knew... The car pulled onto a long winding driveway. Nikita was so excited she wanted to leap from the moving car and run the last distance between them. It took all of her will power to stay put. As they neared the house Nikita saw a gathering of people on a snow covered gazebo. They were all dressed in black their breath visible in the cold air . She saw Michael, Adam, Walter. Wait, what is Walter doing here she thought frantically? She couldn’t hold back any longer, she jumped free from the car and began to walk briskly towards the gazebo. Her heart was in her throat at the sight of all the people she loved standing together.

Michael held his breath as Nikita strode towards him. Her coat was billowing in the cold winter wind, her eyes shielded behind black sunglasses. She was as beautiful as ever.

Nikita was close to them now and she stopped for a moment to untangle her hair. Then she walked the last few steps remaining between them. Her steps were slow now for she was sizing up the situation. There stood Michael, Adam next to him, holding his hand. Walter was off to the side and there was one more person there. She hadn’t seen him at first. It was a priest looking expectantly at her.

“And this must be the lovely bride, I presume,” the priest said with a smile on his face.

“Michael, what’s going on?” Nikita asked, tears streaming down her face at the realization. This was even more than she had hoped for when she had boarded the plane. The thought of becoming Mrs. Samuel had been her dream for as long as she had known Michael. Their love they had shared for some time now, but to share his name was an honor she had thought would never be possible.

Michael was staring directly into Nikita’s eyes, even before she had removed her sunglasses. Before he could speak Adam broke free from Michael.

“You’re going to be my mommy, Nikita. You are going to live with us just like I wanted.” Adam was squealing with joy. He bounded over to Nikita and jumped into her arms, nearly knocking her down.

“Hurry up and marry my dad so we can go in the house Nikita. I have so much to show you but Daddy says that he wants the first time you enter our house, well, he wants you to be his wife. So hurry up, be his wife already,” Adam said impatiently. Nikita laughed at his enthusiasm and then looked to Michael questioningly. She gazed deeply into his eyes, seeing them stir with love and passion for her.

“Is this true Michael?” Even though she knew the answer, she had to ask. She wasn’t going to make it that easy on him.

“Yes, if you will have me for your husband.” Michael’s voice was so soft Nikita could barely hear him.

Adam’s head was turning back and forth to look at both Nikita and Michael. He was smiling and his dark eyes were twinkling.

“Well, I’ve heard a certain little boy is looking for a mommy. And I have also heard that this same little boy is in a hurry, so let’s get this show on the road.” Nikita said with a smile.

“All right, Sugar, that is my cue.” Walter then took Adam from Nikita’s arms and placed him on the frozen ground. He offered Nikita his arm and said with his voice cracking with emotion “It would be my honor to give you away on your wedding day.”

Nikita linked arms with Walter, grateful to have him steady her. So many emotions were pulsing through her right now. She stepped lightly onto the gazebo and Walter gave her over to Michael, fading off to the side. The ceremony was a short one. It was more of a formality than anything else but it touched everyone so deeply they were all moved to tears. After exchanging a long and passionate kiss Michael took Nikita by the hand, and led her to their new home. She was eager to go inside and see her new surroundings. Nikita was about to reach for the doorknob when Michael stopped her.

“What’s wrong?” Nikita asked puzzled.

“Nikita, for the first time, I am going to do things right by you. I want to give you everything you deserve. Every bride should be carried over the threshold to her new home.” He looked into her eyes, searching for her approval to his gesture.

“Michael, just love me. That is all I need from you and you will always be doing things right.”

“Please Nikita. We only do this once. Let me do this right.”

“Ok, Ok” Nikita laughed then quickly added, “let this be the only thing we do just once as a married couple.” Michael lifted Nikita quickly into his strong embrace and carried her into their home.

Once inside the main entrance, he placed her softly on the ground, but did not release his hold on her. He held her against him tightly and kissed her again. This kiss revealed all that he was feeling, all of his need for her. She kissed him back eagerly, knowing that she needed him just as much. Their embrace was cut short.

“Daddy, you can have all the time you want with Nikita after I go to bed. This is my time with her.” Adam commanded with hands on hips.

Michael pulled his lips from her mouth and placed them near her ear. “I will let you go for now, Nikita but once he goes to bed, you are mine. Adam said so and we must do as he says.” He squeezed her once more, bringing her even closer to him. Then with a sigh, released her. Nikita laughed and then turned her attention towards Adam. He wanted to give her the grand tour and she eagerly accepted. As they were about to disappear down the hall Nikita glanced back at Michael once more. “remember” he mouthed to her and she smiled knowingly. It was not something she would allow him to forget.

“So, how does it feel to be married?” Walter questioned Michael as they watched Nikita and Adam head down the hall.

“I’ll tell you in a few days, after I have had time with my wife.” Michael was grinning at the thought, his wife.

“How do you think Nikita will take it when she finds out she isn’t free?”

“We’ll have to wait and see.” Michael then turned and headed down the opposite hall to his office. He planned on busying himself with work until dinner.

It was late evening before everyone met up again. Nikita had spent all afternoon with Adam. He was a talkative little boy and Nikita enjoyed his company immensely. She looked forward to being his mother. She knew she could never replace Elena and she wouldn’t try to, but she hoped to honor her memory and care for Adam as her own son.

They gathered in the dining hall, an enormous room that was sparsely decorated. It contained a long table that stretched the length of the room. The walls were bare save for the warm beige Michael had them painted. The ceiling held three grand chandeliers that cast a rosy glow upon their feast. The only people seated at the table were Walter, Adam, Michael, and Nikita. The staff chose to dine on their own, wanting to give this new family some time to themselves. After dinner was complete Walter suggested that he spend some quality time with Adam. Nikita and Michael readily agreed, grateful to have him there. They said good night to Adam and retreated to their quarters.

I loved you first: but afterwards your love,
...Outsoaring mine, sang such a loftier song
As drowned the friendly cooings of my dove.

...For one is both and both are one in love:
Rich love knows nought of 'thine that is not mine';
...Both have the strength and both the length thereof,
Both of us, of the love which makes us one.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet.

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

Once they were behind closed doors all of their pent up passion came loose. They were grabbing for each other wildly, their mouths met up in a passionate kiss. Nikita shoved Michael back against their closed bedroom door, pressing herself into him. She hadn’t even taken time to survey their bedroom, not caring about anything but Michael.

His strong hands held her at the small of her back, making sure there was no space between them. He then began to walk her backwards toward the bed, never once breaking their kiss. Electricity flowed between their bodies so powerfully the air was nearly crackling. Nikita felt her legs bump into something and then they were falling onto the bed. He pulled his mouth away from hers now and started spreading kisses down her neck, burning her skin with his touch. She already missed his lips on hers and she was straining to recapture their kiss.

“Nikita” he sighed. Her hands roaming his chest as he whispered into her ear. Their passion moved them forward, connecting them in a dance they had long been missing. Each movement brought them closer to bliss.

Everything they had ever been, ever would be, and what they were right now merged together, dissolving in the moment. They were being driven by the need to encompass and possess each other like never before. For the first time in their relationship they had what they always wanted. Forever.

Each touch took them higher bringing them to world beyond human comprehension. In this world only two things existed, tactile sensation and the presence of their love. They drew it out, driving each other to the edge with desire and need, but easing off before reaching a point of no control. Time was their friend and they were going to make the most of it.

Their hands and lips made intoxicating trails over each other’s bodies, causing them to shudder and flinch under the ticklishly light caress. Michael kissed Nikita, tasted her, loved her for all he was worth and she did the same for him. When they could take no more they just let themselves go to the overwhelming force that flowed between them.

When it seemed as if there was no where left to go, they were suddenly propelled impossibly higher as the their bodies were flooded with euphoria. They reached their blissful climax at the same moment and in that moment time stood still. There was nothing but them and the wonder of their love. They collapsed at the release they felt and held each other tight. Nikita turned her head to the side, for the first time, looking at the room she was in. That is when she saw the ring on her finger, the light catching her diamond and setting it on fire. It was a large diamond, emerald cut, on a platinum band. She looked back at Michael and kissed him to make sure this was real.

“Michael, tell me I’m not dreaming.”

“You are very much awake, Nikita.”

“I still can’t believe it. Earlier today I was sad, and arguing with Walter... Wanting so badly to see you. And now I am your wife, lying in our bed. I just can’t believe it.”

“It is real, Nikita. I swear to you. It is the fulfillment of our dreams. It is hard for me to believe as well. Still, here we are, the first day of eternity.”

“Tell me again,” Nikita giggled, “Make me believe it is real.”

“I’ll do my best.” And Michael began to kiss her again.

Their night continued in this fashion. Making love that drained them of all their energy and then laying quietly in each other's arms, waiting for their desires to stir again. It was late morning before they were ready to leave their bed. By this point light was fighting to get past the curtains to invade their room.

“Adam must wonder where we are.” Michael stated.

“Just a minute more. I want to take in the sights of my new bedroom, our room. I have been a little preoccupied and not seen much beyond the bed” At this thought Nikita smiled, it was not hers... it was theirs. It was the sweetest thing she had heard.

She sat up in bed holding the royal blue satin sheets against her body. The curtains and carpet were the same shade of beige, creating a warm and neutral look. The bed was a deep colored wood frame. They each had their own dressers and wardrobes that matched their bed. And to her delight they each had their own closet as well. She was pacing the room now, wanting to take in every nook and cranny. She opened the door to her closet and found another surprise, Michael had it stocked with a wide variety of clothes she adored. She quietly closed the door to her closet, a small tear in her eye.

Michael had been carefully watching her inspection of their room, waiting for her approval. When he saw her tears he beckoned for her to come back to the bed. He grabbed her hand and pulled her into his arms and held her close.

“Nikita I never want to see you cry again. I want all of your days to be filled with joy. Let me dry your tears.” Michael then began to kiss and lick her closed eyes, greedily taking in her salty tears.

“Is that better now?” Michael asked when he had removed all evidence she had been crying.

“Yes, much. Maybe we should get ready to go down for breakfast now. I'm famished and I am sure Adam misses us.”

“I’ll show you the bathroom so you can freshen up.” Upon entering the large room he flicked on the light switch illuminating the space. It had a large free standing tub along with a cozy shower stall. There was a double sink where he had imagined they could stand side by side brushing their teeth and readying themselves for whatever plans they may have. It was so hard to believe that all his dreams were coming true and they took pleasure in the smallest of things. They relieved their bodies and then they did as Michael imagined, stood at their respective sinks brushing their teeth. Then they went to dress. Nikita found a beautiful black silk nightgown hanging in her closet with a matching black robe. She slipped the thin material over her head and then wrapped her body in the robe. She felt like a princess and she smiled over at her prince. She saw he had donned a pair of silky pajama pants in his typical black. Together they padded down the stairs.

Adam was already seated at the table along with Walter. Walter eyed the happy couple knowing it was a difficult sacrifice for them to be at breakfast this morning. Adam was bubbling over with happiness.

“Did you sleep well Nikita?’ Adam asked anxiously. Walter stifled a laugh at the thought of them getting any sleep the night before.

Nikita and Michael exchanged a glance that showed their appreciation for this little boys innocence and amusement at the very mention of sleep.

“Yes, Adam. I slept... very... well..” Nikita managed. Then she reached out and tousled his hair. “And what are we having for breakfast this morning? I’m very hungry.”

They dined in near silence just enjoying each other’s company. They knew it would be the first of many shared meals and they didn’t want to ruin it with words. When breakfast was over and their bodies had replenished themselves Michael and Nikita headed back upstairs to continue their honeymoon. They were together now and they would let nothing tear them apart. They were no longer Michael and Nikita. They were the Samuelles, a family.

They stayed sequestered in their room for a month, only coming out to have family meals and spend time with Adam. They were insatiable and made up for lost time. After a month had passed Michael knew they had to get back to work. He couldn’t put it off any longer even though he wished he could. He’d put it off for the rest of his life if he could and spend his days with Nikita and Adam, never looking back... Still there was evil in the world that needed to be stopped and Michael and Nikita were its most powerful adversaries. Walter had been holding down the fort but it was time for the true leaders to take control.

Michael awoke early and showered alone. It was the first time they hadn’t started their morning together since they had been wed. It still made him beam, just knowing that Nikita was indeed his wife. After a quick shower he padded lightly into their bedroom wearing only a towel around his waist.

Nikita reached over to stroke Michael but found his side of the bed strangely empty. Her eyes fluttered open, straining to focus. The room was still dark except for the light that streamed out of the open bathroom door. She saw Michael bent over his dresser looking for clothes. She turned to look at the clock on the night stand and saw it was five in the morning. She groaned, it was so early. “Michael, what are you doing up? If you can’t sleep I can think of things we could do to pass the time.” Michael smiled before answering her.

“Not right now Nikita. It is time for us to get back to work. I will keep your suggestion in mind though.”

“Work? We aren’t those people anymore. We have all the time in the world for just us.” Her voice was quavering, giving her away.

Michael could tell that even she didn’t believe the statement she had just made.

“Nikita, please.” That was all he could say. He knew that in her heart she knew the truth. “You can get up when you are ready. After you have eaten, find Walter. You two have a great deal of things to cover today.” Then Michael took his clothes and disappeared into the bathroom. As the door shut Nikita lost her resolve. She began to weep silently, her honeymoon was over and this was her life. Then the ruthless leader in her took over and she quickly wiped away her tears. She might have to live her whole life serving this cause but at least she could do it with Michael at her side.

After Michael had dressed he came out to the bedroom once more. He was expecting to see Nikita curled up in the bed, crying at the reality she faced. Instead he saw her in her closet, searching for the right outfit. He was surprised at how strong she was and he found new things to love about her everyday. He went to her and kissed the back of her neck.

“I love you. I will see you later.” Again she surprised him. All she said was “Ok. Have a good day at work honey.” She kissed his cheek and they both laughed at her joke. Even now she was making the best of things. Michael left their room and when he shut the door he said a silent prayer of thanks for having such a wonderful woman in his life.

By six a.m. Nikita was in the kitchen, rummaging noisily for her breakfast. She had decided to keep it light today and reached for a piece of fruit to go with her cereal. After finishing her food she downed a glass of juice and then put the dirty dishes in the washer. It was time to find Walter.

She turned the corner to leave the kitchen and stopped short. She nearly ran into Walter. He was leaning casually against the wall, obviously waiting for her. She smiled at him warmly and said, “Let’s get down to work, shall we?”

“Whatever you say Sugar, whatever you say.”

They walked together down the hall and into the basement of Nikita’s massive new home. The place was so large and though she had been here a month, she still had not really explored it fully. Her attention had been devoted elsewhere.

“Where are we going Walter?” Nikita asked after they opened a closet on the far side of the basement and Walter headed inside.

“To my lab. I feel more comfortable talking shop there. I don’t want to ruin the rest of your home by conducting business in rooms meant for living.” Any normal person would have wanted to know why they were heading into a closet. After all Nikita had been through, this seemed perfectly logical. You didn’t leave things like that out in the open, a lab would surely have to be hidden. She grimaced as she thought about the life she led but felt grateful for it, maybe for the first time, because it was what brought her to Michael.

“You’re looking quite chipper for someone who is returning to a job they despise.” Walter was trying to make small talk as they rode the elevator deep below the home to his lab.

“Well, who likes their job anyway?” She quipped. “For once in my life I am like all the ordinary folk out there. I have a husband, a son, a loving fatherly figure” At that point she had to reach out and embrace Walter. Then she continued, “A beautiful home and a job that I hate.”

“You might even have that picket fence, if you want it. And a mini van too. I don’t know about achieving the 2.5 kids, that’s Michael’s department. I could get you a dog and a cat. Then you would have a lot in common with the everyday Joe but trust me Sugar, you will never be ordinary.”

Their joking was put aside as the elevator reached the lab. The cool steel doors opened to reveal Walter’s version of heaven. Nikita just stood there taking it all in. Was this really an extension of her house? Well, it was something to leave off the tour, that was certain.

They were in a mammoth room, dark and cavernous like Section. It sent a chill through Nikita as she was struck by the familiarity. There was at least two dozen work stations and row upon row of storage areas. She could only imagine what Walter kept here. Just then something caught Nikita’s eye. Walter had sleeping quarters down here, for when he worked late into the night she surmised. There above his bed hung a poster of a beautiful model wearing only her smile.

“Nice poster, Walter.”

“Oh her? She is my muse.” Then Walter hurriedly shut the door to his quarters. “Come, let’s sit at the briefing table. It’ll allow us to be more comfortable.”

“Why do I feel a nice long speech coming on? Can I have a cup of coffee to help me digest what you are about to say?”

“Of course.” Walter made the coffee and then he and Nikita settled in for a chat.

“Let’s see, someplace dark and oppressive to remind me of what my life is, check, coffee in hand to keep me awake and focused, check, one mysterious old man about to explain to me the mysteries of my life, check. Ok I think we have all the necessary elements Walter. Time for you to begin.”

“Sure, sure, make your jokes. All right, where to begin today... Well, you finally realized that you needed to be with Michael to get where you are going. Now you are here, the honeymoon is over, and you are trying to figure out where you go from here. Am I right?”

“That pretty much covers it. Unless we can go back to the honeymoon part... I think I have a willing husband a few hundred feet above us.”

“Save it for later, it’s time to work now. Nikita, you are no longer Operations. Section is not your only concern and you need to understand this. You and Michael are now the head of Center. You are Mr. and Mrs. Jones. That makes you two the most powerful people in the universe. The choices you make will hold a lot more weight to them now. And along with it means you will have a lot more enemies.”

“Walter, I understand all of this. Tell me something new.”

“How about this?” It was a new voice, echoing from the darkness. The voice was familiar and it sent chills through Nikita. It was Madeline.

“Wait... what are you...? No, you’re dead. Walter, what’s going on?” Nikita was reeling in shock.

“Nikita,” it was Madeline speaking again, “things are never what they seem in our world. I did try to kill myself when your... betrayal came to light. I didn’t want to live with the consequences I feared were coming. Someone out there had more pressing plans for me. I was revived and kept hidden away from the world of Section. I was being groomed for something much bigger. Even I couldn’t conceive of it all but I see it now. You encompass what Section is all about, what it was created to be. And given your family history it is no surprise that you are now at the head of Center.”

“You’re dead, how can you stand here before me when you are DEAD?”

“Nikita, just listen to Madeline and I will explain the rest later.”

“Nikita, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes. I think we all know that. I had been seduced by power. Paul and I had become very greedy. I can never make up for what I have done but I hope that we can work past that. I swear to you that I come to serve under your leadership freely with no hidden agendas.”

“Serve, as what?”

“Strategist. And if I am lucky, maybe one day we could even be... friends. You’ve changed the way things operate now, and even in the dismal world we live in there is now room for friendship and love. Paul and I will do whatever you ask of us Nikita. Just give us a chance.”

“Paul? What is this, am I having a nightmare? Walter how do I have a staff consisting of the dead? Next thing you are going to tell me my father is actually alive and well.”

“No Nikita, he is really dead. And for a time so were Madeline and Paul. Gosh, how do I explain all of this? Nikita, when Michael went away, he was never free. He took on the job of running Center until you were ready to join him. He knew that for all of their flaws, Madeline and Operations had many good points as well. So he had them preserved on life support. They were essentially vegetables for some time and it was planned to just remove the knowledge they had gained over the years and use it to better our cause. Then some amazing technology started coming out of Center and the rest is history.”

“So Michael has known about this all along and never told me? And when he said that I could leave Section any time I wanted, it was because he held control of Center and would grant my request, then bring me here under the guise that I was free. So no matter what I chose, I would end up here?”

“Yes, Nikita.” Madeline said softly. There was a tender quality to her voice and she reached for Nikita to try and soothe her, calm her anger.

“Don’t touch me.” Nikita hissed at her. She then turned and marched to the elevator.

“Nikita, where are you going?” Walter questioned her. He knew it was a lot to take in, it had thrown him for a loop when he found out. Still, there was more for her to hear.

“I need to see Michael. We have a few things we need to talk about.” She said this with clenched teeth. As she finished her sentence the elevator opened and she stepped in. She hit the button to go up and glared out at Walter and Madeline as the doors closed without a sound.

I loved you first: but afterwards your love,
...Outsoaring mine, sang such a loftier song
As drowned the friendly cooings of my dove.

...For one is both and both are one in love:
Rich love knows nought of 'thine that is not mine';
...Both have the strength and both the length thereof,
Both of us, of the love which makes us one.

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet.