Michael had been uneasy about the idea of the shopping trip. As a precaution he sent a security team to trail Nikita and Madeline. It eased his mind a little to know Nikita and Madeline were capable of taking care of themselves.

Still, by 9:30 they weren’t home. The mall had closed at nine and he hadn’t heard from his wife. He tried her cell but she didn’t answer.

Fear began to gnaw at him. Just then his phone began to ring. His heart soared at the thought it was Nikita trying to contact him.

When he it was the number of his security team his blood ran cold.

“Sir, we have a problem.” The voice on the line was shaking. Obviously he did not want to say what he was about to.

“What’s that?” Michael’s voice was even, trying to remain in control as he imagined the worst.

“They’re gone.” Two words that changed Michael’s life forever, followed by silence.

“What do you mean they are gone? When was the last time you saw them?” Michael closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose while he thought.

“They went into an elevator. They were going to the Baby Gap. We were going to pick them up again on the third floor but they weren’t in the elevator when it opened. All of their bags were there but they were gone.”

“Find them.” Michael commanded. Then he hung up the phone and clenched it in his hand. When it appeared the phone was on the verge of shattering in his iron grip he put it back in his pocket and headed for the lab. He needed to assemble a team immediately.

~*~

Nikita awoke to find herself in a makeshift dungeon of sorts. The walls were stone and the floor was cement. It appeared they were deep underground, wherever they were. Madeline had not woke up yet and for a moment Nikita feared she was dead. She rushed to her friend’s side and felt for a pulse. It was a tremendous relief when she felt a strong rhythm pushing against her touch.

Once she knew Madeline was all right, Nikita began to explore her surroundings. The door was made of metal, at least a foot thick. There was ventilation to the room but escape through the system was virtually impossible. This far underground their trackers would cease to be effective. They were stuck. Nikita leaned against the wall as she sat. She prayed for a miracle. She prayed for Michael. She had lived through many impossible situations before. Now it was even more important.

Madeline began to groan and stretch as she came around. Nikita went to her, cradling her head in her lap. She brushed the hair off of Madeline’s face and did her best to comfort her. It took sometime before Madeline’s eyes could focus clearly on Nikita. When they did, she struggled to form words. Nikita explained to her what she already knew. Then they sat, huddled together, trying to conceive of a plan.

After the initial shock Michael, Walter, and Paul formulated a plan.

They would leave Adam at the house. He would be safe under the care of Mrs. Weatherby, the security staff, and Jason and Quinn. The three men donned their mission gear, took a small team with them, and headed out into the night but not before taking the time to say goodbye to Adam.

Each man hugged the little boy fiercely and kissed him on the head. Paul and Walter let Michael have a moment alone with his son.

Michael explained they were leaving and he didn’t know when they would return. He told Adam that some bad people had kidnapped Madeline and Nikita but not to worry because he would get them back.

The news hit Adam with the force of a speeding train but he didn’t cry. He was strong for his dad. He hugged his father and told him, ‘Bring Nikita and Aunt Madeline back to me. I need my mom.” It was the first time Adam had called Nikita mom and she wasn’t even here to hear it. Michael held his son for a minute longer before letting him go. He needed to get started.

Madeline asked Nikita if there was a possibility to escape. When she heard the sad news they were really trapped it just steeled her resolve even more. It was not the first time Madeline or Nikita had found themselves trapped like this nor would it be their last. They set to work searching the room once more knowing somehow they would get through this.

Michael had already met with the team that had been tailing Nikita.

The men had confiscated the mall’s security tapes but it didn’t give them much to work off of. A group of five people dressed in regular clothes had assaulted Nikita and Madeline. It appeared as if their leader was female. The group was seen carrying Madeline and Nikita out of the elevator and into a hallway that led to an emergency exit. However the mall had failed to install camera’s in the emergency hallways. Michael was angry beyond words. He watched the tape once more, fearing that Nikita and Madeline were already dead. They did not try to fight their attackers in any way. As Michael closed his eyes in despair, Walter jostled his arm forcibly. Michael opened his eyes to glare at Walter but saw his face was that of joy.

“Look Michael! You can see Nikita is breathing! Madeline too. They’re alive!” Michael watched the tape again and saw that Walter was right. Seeing they were still alive gave the men a new, stronger, determination to find the women they loved.

The security vehicles were en route, hoping to pick up a signal from Nikita and Madeline’s transmitters. Certainly their captors could not have taken them far. It was grasping at straws but they figured as long as they were moving they stood a better chance of finding them then if they were standing still.

In the mean time, they were keeping in constant contact with Jason and Quinn. The pair were searching to identify the people foolish enough to instigate problems with the Samuelles.

Nikita and Madeline’s search for escape was interrupted when they heard someone outside of the door. They stopped what they were doing and braced themselves for what was to come. Two men stood outside of the door. They were burly individuals with scowls permanently painted on their faces.

“Come with us.” The man on the left commanded. As expected neither woman moved. “We can do this the hard way or the easy way. Its up to you.” The men looked tough but inside they feared Nikita and Madeline. When they had aligned themselves with Alex they never believed they would come face to face with Nikita Samuelle or Madeline. They knew from the moment Alex had these women kidnapped, their days were numbered. Still they were obedient to their leader.

“I’ve never done things the easy way. Have you Madeline?” Nikita used her sarcastic manner to distract the men.

“No.” Madeline affirmed. The men knew they were being warned. They also knew these women spoke the truth. Despite their fear they advanced upon the two, hoping beyond hope, that the drugs had left them out of sorts.

No such luck. Nikita landed a well placed kick directly to the side of one man’s head. Madeline mirrored Nikita’s movements as she assaulted the second man. They fell heavily to the floor giving Madeline and Nikita time to dart out of the room. They ran down the hallway, not knowing where they were going, but at least it was progress compared to being locked in a room.

As they continued to try and find a way out they began to ascend a flight of stairs. One flight after another bringing them closer and closer to the earth’s surface. They hoped that daylight would soon be visible or a starry sky, whatever the case. They didn’t know how long they had been locked up. All they wanted was their freedom. Michael’s team was driving, searching, and praying. Suddenly two blips began to appear on their radar screen. Hope surged in Michael’s heart. It was at least clear his wife was still alive.

The van turned around, heading full speed towards the dots on the screen. Each passing mile was bringing them closer to the women, drawing the group’s hope ever higher.

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.

***********

Back at home, Mrs. Weatherby was trying in vain to distract Adam from his very real fears. She tried to entice him to play a game of chess with her but he refused. He told her he wasn’t capable of concentrating right now. It broke her heart. No child should have to live this way. The world was scary enough for normal children but to have his parents regularly kidnapped, tortured, beaten, etc. was just too much. She finally was able to occupy Adam with the task of baking bread. It was a very involving task, kneading the dough, and it would fill the home with a lovely aroma.

Madeline and Nikita were sure they were nearly free. Each step brought them closer to freedom. It seemed as if whomever had kidnapped them was not too bright. They had made it very easy for the women to escape. With their last burst of energy, Madeline and Nikita lunged for the door leading to fresh air. They threw open the door, running through it without hesitation. To their horror they ran smack dab into Alex and ten bodyguards.

The guards instantly restrained the two women. Alex chuckled mirthlessly.

“Nice to meet face to face, don’t you think?” He was strikingly handsome but his very presence revolted Madeline and Nikita. They stayed silent, not wanting to give him any sort of advantage beyond the obvious. He eyed them, taking in the sight of each woman individually. “Well, I must say, I never realized how truly beautiful you are, each of you. Not until this very moment. I would come closer but I don’t dare. I am sure you will fancy yourselves strong, rebellious. Probably you’d try to assault me despite the fact you are restrained right now.” Alex laughed. He was confident how well he knew each woman. “Well, it’s time to make a little home video, shall we?” Nothing he said got any response from either woman. He chuckled again, finding himself amusing. “Don’t worry, it’s not that kind of movie. I just need a little leverage to use against the great Michael Samuelle.”

The guards dragged Nikita and Madeline to cages that hung in the middle of the room. Three guards held each woman still while the four remaining guards opened the cage doors. Nikita and Madeline were thrown into the cages hard enough to have the wind was knocked out of them. The guards manning the doors slammed them shut before either woman could react. Then the guards retreated.

Michael was beginning to grow concerned. The dots on his screen had stopped moving. Why had Nikita’s efforts to escape ceased so suddenly? The fear was back, strong as ever. It gripped his heart with an unrelenting hold. His team was still some distance away. He prayed nothing would happen before he got to them. The tension in the security van was tangible. While everyone was certainly eager to get their leader back they feared Michael. No one dared speak. Not even Paul or Walter.

The bread was already in the oven. Adam was helping to clean up the mess. Mrs. Weatherby kept complimenting Adam. She told him what a wonderful helper he was. She told him he was the bravest little boy she knew. He smiled, a halfhearted effort, and went back to the thoughts swarming his mind.

The van had not yet reached the location of the glowing dots on the screen. Jason and Quinn cut in. They routed a transmission sent to Section minutes earlier. The screens on the computers went black for a moment. Then the sight of Nikita and Madeline confined to cages. The women looked well, alive, alert, and in good status. Then Alex walked in front of the cages.

“Michael Samuelle, you and your meddling wife have something that belongs to me. I know I threatened to attack the substations unless you relinquished power to me. However, I would never dream of destroying something I am soon to control. Only a fool would act out in such a manner. Instead I decided to take something that belonged to you. And it appears today is my lucky day, I got to take two somethings. If you want to see your wife alive again, give me what I want. By the way, don’t get any crazy ideas of invading my home in a valiant rescue effort. I have this place rigged so well that any attempt at unauthorized access will blow you into the next millennium. Ciao!’

Michael’s blood was boiling. He knew they couldn’t act until they were able to verify if Alex’s threats were real. Every minute they waited gave Alex an even greater advantage. In a rare outburst, Michael pounded his fists on the table before him. Then he cleared the surface of the table in one swift pass of his arm. His team just sat in a terrified silence.

Nikita and Madeline were left alone in their cages once the video had been shot. They were not granted the privilege of food or water. To pass the time and keep their focus strong the women spoke. They talked of the old days and the long journey they had made to get to the point they were at now. It was strange, they had started almost as friends and from the beginnings of friendship became bitter enemies. Madeline had even attempted to take her own life rather than let Nikita hold any power over her. Then there was now. They were friends, sisters, confidants. It was a welcome and miraculous change.

Alex was in his room contemplating his next move. He was fairly certain it was time to start the torture part of Nikita and Madeline’s stay at his humble abode. It had been a stroke of good luck when apprehending them. Now he needed to find out exactly where Center was located. He needed to eliminate the Samuelles. They were standing in his way. He was so close to victory he could taste it. Those he kept in his employ tasted something too. Fear.

Adam settled into a fitful sleep. He dreamt his parents would be home soon, along with the rest of his family. Mrs. Weatherby watched him as he slept. The security detail that night told her it wasn’t necessary for her to watch Adam sleep all night. They reassured her he would be safe in the home. Still, she couldn’t drag herself away. There wasn’t much she could do for Michael and Nikita right now. But she could watch over their son and guard him with her life. So that is what she did.

Nikita wanted to cry out in pain but she didn’t. She would not surrender her will to Alex or his henchmen. They had strapped her arms above her head, using chains that hung from the ceiling. Her legs were bound as well to prevent her from kicking her tormenters. Two men took turns whipping her, kicking her, punching her, and otherwise working to beat her senseless. Every blow rocked her in her in restraints. The pain was rushing through her body, an almost unbearable force. She disconnected her mind from her current situation. She thought of Michael, Adam, the baby. She thought of all the things they would do as a family. She thought of anything but what was happening right now.

When it was clear the men were making no progress in breaking her spirit, they threw her back in her cage. She landed in a corner, her body slumped against the cold metal. Bruises were already distorting the color of her face and body. She moaned, the first acknowledgment to her physical pain. Madeline’s eyes widened in fear. Her first thought was of the baby. Nikita met her eyes and Madeline knew Nikita shared her fear as well. Then Nikita looked away. As she turned her head Madeline saw tears start to mix with the blood running down Nikita's face. Her heart broke for her friend.

Much to Michael’s dismay it seemed as if Alex spoke the truth. His home was indeed rigged, booby trapped, and otherwise wired to prevent unauthorized entry. Michael closed his eyes in frustration. Suddenly he had a vision of Nikita, badly beaten, huddled in a cage. His heart suffered at the thought of what she was enduring right now. He would kill Alex the first opportunity he got.

Alex checked in with the guards. They were concerned about Nikita’s condition. Mrs. Samuelle had endured the beating stoically but now she was looking quite the worse for wear. Alex was not as concerned. He said they still had one healthy hostage as Madeline had not yet been touched. The guards persisted out of fear. They finally convinced Alex to bring in medical treatment for Nikita. They knew if she died there would be hell to pay. They did not want any more problems then they would already have with Michael Samuelle. “Nikita? Are you ok?” Madeline’s voice pierced the quiet. Silence was the reply. “Nikita” Madeline tried again. Nikita stirred a little in her cage. The effort was sheer torture causing Nikita to cry out in agony.

“I’m... all... right...” Came the reply. Madeline sighed in relief. At least she knew Nikita was still alive. However, Madeline’s worries were far from over.

“Is, um... Is everything all right?” In case their conversations were being monitored Madeline did not want to mention the baby Nikita was carrying. Since she was not showing, at least not with her clothes on, Madeline figured her pregnancy was still a secret from Alex.

“I think so.” Now Nikita’s words came a little stronger but it was clear everything she did was a tremendous strain on her. Seeing this, Madeline told her to rest.

“Everything is going to be all right Nikita.” Madeline hoped her optimism would reassure her. One of them needed to be confident right now. Nikita nodded her head once before drifting off to sleep. Paul was sitting in the mission van next to Walter. His elbows were on his knees and his head rested in his hands. Since they had left the house Paul had barely spoke. His skin was pale, his eyes tortured. No one had noticed his agony for they were too busy watching Michael. It wasn’t until Walter drew attention to Paul’s condition that anyone else took note.

“Paul, are you all right?” Paul mumbled something to the affirmative but did not raise his head. “We’re going to get them back.” Walter stated without even a hint of uncertainty.

“Yes. We will.” Paul mimicked Walter’s conviction. Still, he was not very convincing. Michael had been lost in thought but hearing Walter and Paul talking roused him from the corners of his mind.

“Are you all right Paul?” Hearing Michael address him shocked Paul enough that he raised his head to look at Michael.

“I will be once we get them back.” Paul grimaced at Michael. Michael nearly smiled back in understanding. It made their subordinates very uncomfortable. Never before had they seen Paul or Michael express emotion so clearly and without hesitation. It was as if everything they had been before was lost now and their operatives got to see their human side. It was something none of the people present would ever forget. Right when the feeling in the air was getting to be too strong Walter cleared his throat. The moment was over and it was time to get back to work. Having witnessed what they just had, the operatives were even more determined than before to get Nikita and Madeline back alive.

“She’s pregnant. About two months along, maybe more.” The news shocked Alex. Once he got past the shock he giggled with evil glee.

No one understood his merriment. “Alex, you should be concerned right now. As far as I can tell the baby is still doing well but she can’t endure any more torture. She’ll lose the child for sure if you do.”

“No. She mustn’t lose this child.” Alex smiled even broader. Then he left his office to go see Nikita. She was back in her cage now, removed only long enough for the doctor to do his exam, and returned as soon as he finished.

Alex walked into the room where the cages were. Madeline cringed when she saw him. He was beaming from ear to ear.

“Mum. Wake up Mum.” He used a sing song voice. Nikita did not acknowledge him. Madeline’s blood ran cold. Alex knew Nikita was pregnant. Out of frustration from being ignored, Alex kicked Nikita’s cage, causing it to swing to and fro. The motion made her groan, part from motion sickness, part due to the pain that surged through her. “I can’t believe my good fortune.” Alex crooned.

“Go to hell.” Nikita didn’t struggle with those words. They came out loud and clear. Alex laughed, so much so he threw his head back in the air.

“Too late, Mum. Already there and I’m king. You are about to be my queen.” He studied her closely, cursing himself for ruining such beauty. Her skin was already five shades of blue.

“I’ll never be anything to you but an enemy.” Her words spat at Alex.

“Have it your way. I was going to take care of you, make sure you stayed healthy and strong so our heir would be too. But if you aren’t interested then I will not make any considerations for you or the babe.”

“Please let her go. You only need one hostage.” Madeline pleaded with Alex out of her love for Nikita and the child she carried.

“I never thought I’d see the day.” Alex stared at Madeline in genuine amazement.

“Just let her go.” Madeline repeated. Her words dissolved in Alex’s dumbfounded stare.

“The great Madeline has gone soft. Such a pity. You used to be so good at what you did. Now you are weak. See what happens when the wrong people are in power? My parents made a mistake when they overlooked me. I’ll fix it for them. It’s the least I can do, take the Samuelle’s out of power.” Then Alex strutted out of the room.

“What’s our status?” Michael asked his edgy staff. His eyes began to search eagerly for answers that weren’t there. The men under his gaze shifted uncomfortably but had no reply. “What is our status?” Michael repeated. They began to squirm, not caring how inadequate it made them appear to their leader.

“Sir, we have nothing new.” The man who had been brave enough to speak soon ducked his head. He did not dare meet Michael’s penetrating gaze again.

“Michael, they’re doing the best they can.” Walter provided. He hoped he could calm Michael some.

“Their best is not good enough. We are supposed to be the elite antiterrorism agency in the world and yet a man with minimal training has managed to kidnap my wife, unborn child, and Madeline!” His rage was evident. It took both Paul and Walter to restrain him. They forced him into a chair and held him down.

“We’ll get them back sir.” The same man spoke again. His voice captured Michael’s attention. He started at him, a steady look. This time the man held his gaze.

“Who are you? What is your name again?” Michael’s voice had once more returned to the nearly imperceptible whisper.

“Grant.” Grant’s voice was nearly shaking as he mumbled his name.

“Yes Grant. You will help me get them back or die trying. Nikita is the one thing in this world I can’t live without. Everyone in the van knew Michael meant it. They were still reeling in shock at the revelation Nikita Samuel was pregnant.

“I know it isn’t the best time sir, but congratulations.” Grant’s eyes were hopeful when they looked upon Michael again.

“Thank you.” Michael uttered. It brought a calm to those present. Paul was the next to speak “Let’s get back to work, shall we?”

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.

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

Meanwhile, in Alex’s domain things were buzzing with activity. Out of advice from his subordinates Alex was on the move. They convinced him that Michael Samuelle had surely found out their location and it would just be a matter of time before he penetrated the security measures. Then all hell would break loose. Alex opted to leave Madeline behind, knowing his real leverage lay in Nikita. He took with them a small entourage and began the task of staying alive.

They exited from his underground parking garage. The air was tense. His team was fearful they had not managed to beat Michael and they would meet their deaths as they fled. They breathed an air of relief when they made it to the freeway alive.

Alex’s group headed past the state line into Ohio. They figured the more distance they put between themselves and Michael Samuelle the better. Still, his followers were uneasy knowing that one day they would pay for their sins.

“Sir. It appears we will be able to deactivate Alex’s security system in the next two minutes. We’re in.” Grant smiled broadly as he delivered the news to Michael. In two and half minutes time Michael’s teams were already in the perimeter and searching cautiously for Nikita. It was not long before Madeline heard noises of people approaching. She was nervous but not showing it. In the back of her mind she hoped it was Section coming to save her but in the forefront of her mind was the very real fear Alex or his henchmen had come back to torture her.

“Sir, we have located the room where they were being held. Madeline’s still here. Nikita is not on site.” Madeline’s body felt instant relief. The good team was here for her. Now they could focus all efforts on recovering Nikita.

“Madeline, thank god you are all right.” Paul proclaimed as he rushed towards her cage. She smiled to him gratefully. Their love, thought to be a relationship of convenience back when they ruled Section, was now obviously real. Paul worked to freed her from the cage while Michael asked the question that was pressing on his mind. “Where’s Nikita?” His voice caught everyone’s attention at once.

Madeline turned to face him, sorrow and pain filling her eyes. “I’m sorry Michael. I wasn’t able to protect her. I feel personally responsible for our capture. I should have been more aware. I don’t know where they took her. They’re gone though. And they know she is pregnant.” Those last words made Michael’s heart stop. He had been hoping they would get her back before anyone outside of their world knew of her pregnancy.

“It’s not your fault.” Then Michael turned away and headed back to the mission van. He did not want to let his pain interrupt Paul and Madeline’s joyous reunion.

Madeline had not endured physical torture but her worries over Nikita had exhausted her mentally. She was weak and in need of rest. Paul helped to steady her as she made her way out of the building. He carried her the last distance to the van.

It was another unnerving experience for the operatives. Never before had Paul or Madeline seemed so human, so vulnerable. No one knew how to react to them or what they were seeing today. Grant took it upon himself to keep his team on track.

“Men. We’ve recovered one of the missing persons but we still need to get Mrs. Samuelle back. Time is of the essence. As we all know, she is pregnant. For the safety of her unborn child we need to rescue her before any harm may reach her.” Grant cleared his throat, looking towards Michael for approval and support. All he received was the patented blank stare.

Nikita was laying in the back of a Suburban. The sport utility vehicle was bouncing heavily on the gravel road. Each bump sent excruciating waves of pain through her body. Despite her desire to remain strong she called out in agony, pleading with the driver to be more careful. Her pleas fell upon deaf ears. In fact, he seemed to pick up speed each time she requested his cooperation. Finally, she gave up and just braced herself as best she could for the time being.

She didn’t know where they were taking her. She just hoped that she was above ground long enough for her people to track her. As if reading her mind, Alex began to speak.

“Nikita, you do realize we have neutralized your tracking device. They can’t find you now.” He laughed, a menacing sound that made her blood turn.

“Michael will find me.” Her words were tougher than she felt.

“Oh yes, that’s right. Help, Superman, save me! Is that what you think will happen? You fancy yourself to be Lois Lane don’t you? Well let me tell you this Nikita. You are not Lois, Michael is not Superman. This time, even he can’t save you.” She glared at him, her blue eyes were fixed upon him. She was about to tell him he was wrong, that Michael would save her. Before she could get the words out her body was hit with the most intense pain she had ever experienced. Pain combined with an odd tightness in her belly. Fear instantly over took her. She was losing the baby.

She moaned, an animalistic sound. The guards turned to peer at her. She had wrapped her arms around her abdomen. Her body was curled up in the fetal position and sweat was beading up on her forehead. As she was hit with another wave of pain she cried out. “Michael. I’m sorry.” The guards looked at each other. It took them a minute to figure out what was going on.

“Oh @#%$!” One of the guards called out in fear.

“What? What is it?” A second guard questioned anxiously.

“She’s going into labor man. Look at her.” The first guard answered.

They both turned to look at her once more. She was writhing in pain, sweat covering her face.

“Oh God no. Please don’t take my baby.” She pleaded. “Please.”

The mission van rolled on. They were meeting a second van at a predetermined rendezvous point. The second van was to take Madeline home. She was in no condition to be of use to them right now. She needed to rest.

Tension filled the air as Paul said goodbye to Madeline. As relieved as he was to have her back he was worried to let her out of his sight again. She reassured him she would be fine. He needed to help Michael find Nikita. That should be his only concern. Then Madeline was in the second van, speeding away to the estate. She would soon be on the mend.

The van carrying Michael, Paul, and Walter went off in search of Nikita once more. Jason and Quinn had picked up a signal from Nikita. She was already entering Ohio. Michael’s brow furrowed in thought. It seemed that she was so far away. A million thoughts overwhelmed him while the van made its way to the airport. They had a plane waiting for them.

“Madeline! Madeline! You’re home!” Adam squealed. He ran to jump in her arms but Mrs. Weatherby stopped him.

“Adam dear, Madeline isn’t feeling well right now. I bet she would like it more if you gave her a very gentle hug.” Adam nodded his head in understanding. Then he approached Madeline slowly, wrapping his little arms around her waist. She looked down at him, a tear falling onto his head.

“Madeline, why are you crying?” He looked up at her with eyes that had already seen more than they should have. She didn’t know what to say. She wanted to spare him pain at any cost but it didn’t seem possible with the lives his parents led.

“I’m just so happy to be home at last.” Madeline smiled.

The guards were pleading with Alex to let Nikita go. Alex was not relenting.

“Look at her.” The first guard ordered. “She just lost her baby because of us. Do you have any idea how much trouble we are in? Michael’s going to kill us as soon as he finds us.” His words hung in the air. Nikita moaned again, breaking the tension in the air.

Alex turned to look at her. “Pathetic.” His words spat at her. Then he turned to his guards. “Even if we let her go Michael will kill us. That is without question. So maybe we lost the child. So what? We still have Nikita, that is our greatest leverage. Michael will come for her and when he does, we kill him. Then I can assume my role as the rightful leader of Center.” Alex chuckled.

“What will you do with her?” The second guard asked. Alex’s eyes lit up at that question.

“She is stunning, I may keep her for myself. After all, she is the daughter of the late Mr. Jones. Surely I can make room for her in my world. Still, she is strong willed. If necessary, I will dispose of her. It would be a pity though.” Nikita cringed inwardly. She would never spend her life with this man. Never.

The men boarded their private jet. Each minute brought them closer to finding Nikita. Michael chose a seat towards the back of the plane. He slumped against the chair and closed his eyes. He would not relax until he could hold Nikita in his arms once more.

Then something was poking Michael’s back, causing him to stir in his seat. He reached behind him to see what it was. He started to cry as he pulled the object free from the chair. Nikita’s hairbrush. She must have lost it on her flight that brought her to him. One of her hair bands was wrapped on the handle. It was blue, like her eyes. He held the brush, staring off into space, thinking of the moment he would have her back. If any harm had come to her, Alex would pay. He would die a slow and painful death. Michael would see to that.

“Sir... the signal just stopped.” Michael knew that meant one of two things. Either Alex had found a way to neutralize Nikita’s transponder or she was dead. He hoped it was not the latter. He could not live without her in his life. He looked at his team for a very long moment.

“Where is her last known location?” He waited to hear the words. “It appears they had just entered a city, Sandusky.”

“Let’s get there.” Then Michael was lost in his thoughts and fears once more.

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 soon as she was able to, Madeline pulled herself free from Adam. She wanted a warm bath and then time for bed. However, Adam was in need of comfort, so after her bath he went in search of his newly deemed aunt. She was relaxing in her quarters, drinking some chamomile tea, and resting.

Adam knocked quietly at the door to which Madeline replied, “come in.” Adam peered in cautiously, always wanting to help a person maintain their privacy. When he saw Madeline smiling at him he felt more comfortable and finally entered the room.

“Can I come sit with you?” His little boy voice was so sad.

“Of course.” Madeline granted him permission. It was the same tone she had used a million times before when granting someone entrance to her office in Section.

“Madeline, what’s going to happen to my mom?” His question made her heart stop. What did she say? The odds were not in her favor. The only thing Nikita had going for her right now was Michael, and their love. Then again that had always been enough. It got them through time and again.

“She is going to be just fine. Your dad will find her and bring her home.” Her tone was resolute. The idea of love conquering all caused a smile to creep along Madeline’s lips. Hadn’t she believed in the power of love somewhere in her past? She hoped she could believe in it again, in a personal experience.

“Madeline, I know my dad will save her but... could I maybe sleep in here with you? I just don’t want to be alone.”

“Of course.” The pair walked hand in hand to Madeline’s bed. With great effort she pulled back the floral spread. Adam crawled into the bed first followed by Madeline. In minutes they were both asleep.

“Come on.” The guards commanded as they pulled Nikita out of the SUV.

“Where are we?” The question came out as more of a moan than intelligible words.

“The best amusement park in the midwest.” Alex chuckled. Great, he planned to hide out in the crowd Nikita realized.

“Where are we with tracking Nikita?” Michael’s voice came as close to sounding anxious as he would ever let it be.

“Sir they just entered a place called Cedar Point. It’s an amusement park. It seems he thinks the crowd will provide him sufficient coverage until he plots his next move.” Michael scowled.

“That’s not the only thing he is thinking.” He was finally beginning to see. “Alex thinks I have gone soft. That I will hesitate to shoot with so many innocents present.” The group reacts in shock.

“That’s crazy. You are Michael Samuelle. You have never hesitated,” Paul stated. Michael just gave him that almost smile and told the team to have a van waiting at the airport.

“Michael will find me here, you do realize that don’t you?” Nikita’s tone was stronger than it had been in some time.

“Not if your transponder doesn’t work and it doesn’t work. It’s been disabled. Do you really think I am that ignorant? Just because I wasn’t raised in Section as I should have been does not mean I am completely clueless. My friends taught me well.”

“Your friends? Your friends? You were trained by the enemy. One of the greatest enemies your parent’s organization ever faced. Do you have any idea how many lives were lost while fighting against them? Their greatest wish was to destroy Section, Oversight, and the Center. You are only the latest attempt, poetic justice if you will. You do know what poetic justice means, don’t you Alex?” The way she said his name was eerie. Her voice rolled past her lips in a wave of disgust.

“They only helped train me to take what is mine. You have no idea what you are talking about.” Alex was getting angry with Nikita. She was talking too much. For everything she had endured she should be weak. Uncommunicative. The fact that she was spinning these lies was unsettling.

“No. Alex you have no idea what you are talking about. They were never your friends. You were a toy. A seed they could plant and watch grow. You were angry at being abandoned. I understand that. So did Red Cell. They used your vulnerability. They trained you and used you so you would be the downfall of your parent’s creation.”

Nikita’s voice was growing stronger as she continued to try and make him see the truth. Alex didn’t want to hear the words spewing forth from her mouth.

“Nikita?” Alex’s voice was momentarily softer.

“Yes?” She hoped he was beginning to see the truths she knew so clearly.

“SHUT UP!!! I will not have you slander the only people who ever cared for me. They would not have me destroy my empire. They only trained me so I could gain control. They cared for me more than my parents ever did.” His voice was quiet now. The mention of his parents, the very idea of them, was still a wound. A very raw, gaping wound in his life.

“Your parents loved you. That is why they were never involved in your life. Don’t you get that Alex? Had they claimed you as their own you would have been a target from the moment you were born. So in your best interest you were kept secret. You were given your freedom, the best thing they could offer you. They didn’t want to see you live the lives they had chosen for themselves. What they did. What we do, is to protect the innocents. It is honorable but it comes at a price. Those of us who are on the inside will never be free again. Never. Once you are in, you are in. That is it.” She saw his face twisting as he listened to what she said. She knew she wouldn’t have his attention much longer. She was right. He began to drag her deeper and deeper in the park.

“Nikita, you could leave. Whenever you want. In fact my intel shows that you have left several times. You always went back. The power, my power, seduced you. You went back so you could take control. So you could take your father’s place. In fact I bet you even set him up, helped him into the grave. All so you could take power that was never meant for you anyway.” His words were harsh. He could not be farther from the truth.

“Alex you are so full of lies it is amazing. If you think even for a moment this is what I wanted for my life than you are even dumber than I thought. I wanted a family, I wanted my mother to be healthy and not under the influence of drugs and alcohol. I wanted a father. I wanted a home. Instead I’ve lived on the streets, been convicted of a crime I didn’t commit, and have since then been drawn into a world I will never be free from. This is never what I would have chosen but I didn’t have a choice. I was dragged in and now I’m captive by it. Not by the power but by reality. The reality is even if I tried to leave there would be so many people out there trying to take my life that I am safer living this way. Having the cover of this world to protect me. To protect Michael, Adam, everyone that matters to me.”

“Nikita you had your father. Mr. Jones. The elusive, powerful, and seemingly too compassionate Mr. Jones. Don’t complain to me that you were ever alone in this God forsaken world.” Their challenge raged on.

“Sir, before we progress any further we think we need to point out two probable scenarios. One, Mrs. Samuelle, managed to undo whatever they did to block her transponder frequency. Or two, they are dragging us into a trap.”

“Whatever it is, I am not going to waste any more time. If it is a trap I ask this one favor. Paul, Walter, take care of Adam. If Nikita’s already dead than I may as well be. I can not live without her. If we are able to pick up her signal again because of her own doing, then I have to save my wife. I will not ask any of you to step into the line of fire for me but I will tell you now that I am not going to come this far to watch her slip away again.” His words hung in the air as he exited the plane and headed for the van.

“I did not have a father until a short period before he died. If your intel holds any truth at all you would know that already.”

“You don’t expect me to believe that, do you?” Her words were incredulous. Completely contradictory to what his friends had told him.

“Our lives are so similar and so distant at the same time Alex. My father loved me so he set me free. He watched me, the same as your parents watched you. All of them knew one truth, if their children were discovered it would mean their deaths. We would have been used by one terrorist agency or another as a pawn to gain an advantage over our parents. That is why they left us alone. It wasn’t because they didn’t care. It was because they cared so much.” Telling their life stories to Alex reawakened truths to Nikita that until now even she had not fully comprehended. She had always understood on some level but not until this very moment did the full force of it hit her.

“Love someone and set them free. That is what you are trying to get me to believe, isn’t it?” She knew now that he was toying with her. “Essentially, yes.” Her eyes were weary from all she had been through. She was afraid of what he would come up with next.

“Well, following that logic, your precious Michael will not be coming to save you then. You see, I know he loves you. More than life itself. But he feels a strong duty to his calling. He may die if he comes to save you. So because he loves you he will set you free. Even if it means you will die. Which you will, if you fail to cooperate.” He was nearly laughing now. A sound that made Nikita shiver. She knew right then and there she would never be able to convince Alex of the truth. Not entirely. Such a waste of a human being. He could have been so worthy to their cause. If only... “Sir, we are not going to be able to sneak into Cedar Point. Doing so may attract attention. It may be best if we purchase tickets like the general public. Enter through the front like everyone else.”

Michael eyed the entrance and saw that at this point there was no line. He knew his team was right. They marched to the ticket booth and paid their way inside the park. Then they split up, acting under the guidance of Quinn. She was running Comm back at the house.

“Michael can’t save you now. I won’t let him. I don’t think you’ll ever learn to love me, so once I manage to remove Michael from my ascension to power, you too will be dealt with.” Then their conversation time was over. Alex didn’t want to hear from her any more. Maybe because the words she spoke would derail everything he believed. Or maybe because he would never see the truth. At the estate, the air was tense, though they tried their best not to let it seem that way. Everyone wanted to provide a sense of calm for Adam’s sake. It wasn’t working. He was anxious to have his parents return. He did not deal well with the separation.

“Madeline, do you think it would be all right if I went to the gym?”

He was so much like his parents it was amazing. Even now he was dealing with his situation they way they would. He was going to exercise until he was completely exhausted.

“Of course it would be all right. Would you like me to go with you?” Her voice was soft. It was hard to believe she was the same person who so coldly calculated who lived or died in Section.

“No, I’ll be all right on my own. Thank you though.” Then he departed from her presence in the same stoic manner she had grown accustomed to with Michael. Madeline went to the kitchen to have some tea and converse with Mrs. Weatherby.

“How was Nikita when you were separated?” The older woman had never seen action in the field but she was terribly familiar with the ways of Section, the lives their operatives led.

“She was good.” Madeline’s voice was calm, even. Calculated to reveal very little emotion.

“Good? As in they hadn’t touched her? Or good as in she’s still alive?” Mrs. Weatherby couldn’t think of anything else to say.

“Good as in she’s strong. She can endure until Michael gets to her. They were rough on her but she’s been in worse situations.” It chilled Mrs. Weatherby to see Madeline this way. The way that Section knew her to be. The version her enemies feared.

“What about the baby? Do you think, um, do you think the baby is all right?” It would break the old woman’s heart to hear otherwise but she needed to know. She didn’t want to be in the dark anymore.

“I don’t know. I really don’t know. Nikita’s strong. So is Michael. Probably their baby is a fighter but like I said, they were rough on her. I don’t know for sure.”

“Oh.” That was the only thing left to say. Followed by, ‘I’m going to pray for them.” Madeline nodded. The women let the conversation fade away. Neither of them were willing to voice any more concern over the situation.

“Michael, Nikita should be just ahead of you. I can’t really tell how many people are with Alex. They are in the middle of a crowd. Thermal scan indicts they are surrounded by innocents.” Quinn’s voice was apprehensive. She was holding her breath, then releasing it ever so slowly in an effort to remain calm. They were so close to having Nikita back but... if anything went wrong, they may lose them both. As for the baby, that was in God’s hands. Quinn wasn’t going to make any guesses on that.

“I see them. We have visual.” Michael responded. “Teams, get ready to move.” Excitement mixed with fear filled the air. Michael was in control, like so many missions before. The way he operated with such perfection and ease. To see him in action was an amazing experience for his subordinates. They were seeing a legend come to life before their eyes.

“So, what is your plan Alex? We can’t hide out here forever. The park closes eventually.” Nikita had spotted Michael in the crowd so she was trying to do her part in distracting Alex.

“My plan is none of your concern.” His reply was abrupt.

“Well, seeing as I am with you, and you are trying to kill my husband and myself to take over the organization which we currently lead, I think it does concern me. Just a little.” Her taunting sarcasm was driving him mad. How did Michael ever stomach her, he wondered.

“Nikita is distracting him. Teams one and two, close in. Don’t let them see you. Blend with the crowd. When they clear the corner, take out his security, but Alex is mine.” They did as they were told.

When Alex’s men turned the corner, putting them out of sight for most of the public, Section proceeded to block them in. They were now hidden behind one of the park’s monstrous rides in an area fairly well shielded.

With their gunshots silenced it took Alex a moment to see his team was under fire. In fact, his guard were already dead, laying on the ground before Alex could even react.

“What the $@#&?” He exclaimed as he pulled Nikita against him. She was the only thing he had left now. He used her to shield his body. “It’s over Alex.” Michael commanded. His voice seemed to appear out of nowhere as he was still not in view.

“No Michael. It will only be over when I have control.” Alex tried to be brave but his voice was shaking.

“Let Nikita go. This is your last chance.” Instinctively Nikita knew what Michael wanted. She could tell by his voice that he was drawing closer. She used every ounce of strength she had left to throw herself to the ground. One shot. Then Alex was falling backwards to the pavement.

“Alex is down.” Quinn announced into the comm units.

“Housekeeping.” Michael announced. Then he ran to Nikita. She had not stirred since she moved herself out of harms way. She was still laying on the pavement in front of Alex’s now lifeless body. Michael scooped her in his arms. She was unconscious but breathing.

“My beautiful Nikita.” He cried into her hair. Her body was limp.

“Michael, was she shot?” Paul’s voice was terrified.

“No. We need to get her out of here. She needs medical treatment. Michael made the call.

Those back at the house let out an air of relief when they knew Nikita was in transport. She was alive. Adam looked as if the weight of the world had suddenly been lifted off his shoulders. Madeline laughed as she pulled him into her arms.

“It’s ok. Your mom is on her way home.” Madeline kept repeating. Mrs. Weatherby set to work preparing the Samuelle’s room. She picked out the softest bed linens to keep Nikita comfortable. There was a joy in her heart she could not begin to describe. She didn’t know what sort of condition Nikita would be in when she got home, but the point was, she was coming home. The details didn’t matter.

Nikita was still unconscious as they boarded the jet that would take them to the estate.

“Sugar, I’m so glad to see you. I hope you can hear me.” Walter was crying tears of relief as he held Nikita’s hand. Michael was on her other side, watching protectively over her. He was not about to let her out of his sight again for a very long time.

“Nikita” Operations said tentatively. “I don’t know if you can hear me. I just want you to know, we got him. Michael took care of Alex. You have nothing to worry about now. Just getting better. All you have to do is get better.”

The flight back was quiet after the initial concern over Nikita’s well being. It had been a long road in getting her back. Now they were drained, physically and emotionally. The group sat in silence, hoping for the best. Knowing Nikita would survive. She had to after everything she had been through.

“They’re home!” Adam called out as he watched the van approach. It was getting bigger and bigger on the security screen. He leapt out of his seat to run towards the entrance from the parking garage. As soon as the door opened Adam was jumping into his father’s strong embrace. “Daddy, you’re home. How is Nikita?”

“She’s going to be ok. For now she needs to rest.” Michael smiled a tired smile as he held his son closer to him. This was the moment he had been waiting for.

Michael set Adam down in exchange for Nikita. He lifted her body from the stretcher and carried her to their room. The doctor would arrive shortly.

“Michael, why don’t you go ahead, shower, relax. Nikita will be all right.” Madeline was trying to be helpful. She knew that her suggestion would fall on deaf ears.

“No. I want to be here when she wakes up. I’ll wait.” His voice was resolute.

“Come on Adam,” Madeline said, “let’s give your mom and dad sometime alone.” She took Adam’s hand and led him out of the room. As much as he wanted to be with his parents he understood their need for privacy.

Nikita’s eyes fluttered open. They strained to focus. They were unsuccessful.

“Michael? Is that really you?” She asked as she tried to reach out and touch his face. Her arm was shaking and she was unable to will it to his face.

“Yes my love.” He pulled her outstretched hand to his mouth and kissed its palm tenderly. “You’re home now.” He murmured the words into her palm. She smiled but it quickly turned to a frown.

“I lost the baby.” She said before tears welled up in her eyes.

“It doesn’t matter.” He lied. It hurt but at least he still had Nikita. That was what mattered more to him than anything else in the world. Her blue eyes broke their stare. She slipped back into unconsciousness.

“As long as I have you, that is all that matters Nikita.” He was sobbing when the doctor knocked hesitantly at the bedroom door.

“Yes, come in.” Michael managed as he wiped away his tears.

The exam was very thorough. Nikita had some broken ribs, bruising, and was suffering from overall exhaustion. Her body was in shock after its ordeal.

“Were there any complications from the miscarriage?” Worry was written all over Michael’s face.

“Miscarriage?” The doctor was truly perplexed.

“She lost the baby. She told me before she lost consciousness again.” Michael was getting angered by the doctor’s evident incompetence.

“Michael, she didn’t lose the baby. In fact, the baby is healthy as a horse!” He chuckled. “She is three and half months along. Her due date is the beginning of November. The Samuelle family will have one more child celebrating Christmas this year.” Michael’s face broke out into a grin. Baby Samuelle was alive!

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 woke up for good a couple days after her homecoming. Michael kept a watchful eye over her long after she was recovered. Many times she tried to reassure him that she was fine but it was to no avail. He wanted to be with her all the time. He needed to know for himself that no one would take her away again.

She was shocked to say the least when she learned she was still pregnant. She had been positive she lost the baby during the kidnapping. Her relief was tremendous when she discovered it had only been severe cramping with some bleeding.

The months flew by, her stomach growing a little bigger each day. Or so it seemed. Michael was officially paranoid now, so out of consideration for his wishes, she lightened her workload. She was always a part of things but she tried her best to take things easy.

He surprised her one day when he presented her with her purchases from that fateful shopping day. Her eyes welled with tears and she pulled Michael into her arms.

“Have I ever told you I love you?”

“Not today.” He laughed before claiming her lips again. He ran his hands over her swollen tummy, overjoyed by the life she was carrying inside.

“Well then let me make amends for that. I love you.” She cooed before resuming their kiss. His answer he gave in their kiss.

“Ewwww, yucky!” Adam exclaimed as he stumbled upon them.

“You won’t think so when you are older Adam.” Nikita teased him.

“Yes I will.” He cried back.

“We’ll see.” Nikita laughed.

“We can only hope.” Michael whispered to Nikita, already dreading the idea of Adam dating one day.

“Michael!” Nikita cried out suddenly.

“What is it Nikita?”

“My water just broke.” She wasn’t sure if she should smile or cry. It had caught her so off guard. Michael looked at her and grinned. Their baby was getting ready to make its grand entrance into the world.

“Let’s get you to bed and I’ll send for the doctor.” He escorted Nikita to their room. They had opted long ago to have the child at home, it was safer that way. They didn’t want to risk the exposure a hospital would bring.

“Nikita’s having the baby!” Adam squealed as he ran throughout the home. One sentence that captured everyone’s attention. They anxiously waited outside of the Samuelle’s room, hoping Michael would come out and give them an update. The nervous family paced. The birth of the Samuelle Baby. It was an event no one would have deemed possible before. Now it was happening.

Michael came out for a moment when the doctor arrived. He confirmed that she was fine but did not say anything beyond that. Then he disappeared back into the room with the doctor.

The hours seemed to drag on. The group waited in the silent hall. Sometimes pacing, sometimes slouched against the wall.

“Do you think Nikita is ok?” Adam asked. He was terrified and excited.

“I’m sure she is fine.” Madeline reassured him. The men muttered something to the affirmative but were too lost in thought to be much comfort to Adam. Sometimes when they paced by they would pat Adam on the head. The poor child just sat there, his head bobbing every pass of an anxious adult.

Back in the room was calmer than the scene in the hallway.

“Breathe Nikita.” Michael coached tenderly. She was in pain but her body was accustomed to pain. Her contractions came and went, each one getting stronger than before. She was managing the pain well. Her brow was damp with sweat but other than that she really was fine. Still, she was getting impatient.

“How much longer?” She pleaded with the doctor.

“It all depends on the baby.” He chuckled.

“OH MY...” Her voice cut off as searing pain raged through her body. So this is what labor is really about, she thought.

“We’re in the home stretch now” The doctor declared. “A few more pushes and you’ll bring your baby into the world. You can do it Nikita.”

“Push Nikita, push.” Michael urged. She squeezed his hand till it was in danger of being crushed.

“A little more” The doctor encouraged. “Almost there.”

“You do it.” Nikita pleaded with Michael. She didn’t want to feel the pain anymore. It felt like she was being ripped apart.

“One more push Nikita.” For as strong as she was, she felt weak now. As if she had finally met her match.

“I can’t.” She moaned.

“Yes you can.” Michael turned so their eyes met. He gave her the last ounce of strength she needed. She bore down on the pain. She pushed for all she was worth.

“AAAAHHHHHHHHHH” She yelled as the baby came free.

“Mr. and Mrs. Samuelle, welcome your new baby girl into the world.”

They looked anxiously at the child in the doctor’s hands. She was bloody, she was a mess, but she was theirs and she was absolutely perfect. “What are you going to call her?”

“Amelia,” they said together. Neither had discussed it until now.

“That’s a beautiful name. Did you two pick out a middle name?” This had them momentarily stumped.

“How about Adrian?” Michael suggested softly.

“I love it.” The Samuelle’s kissed. Then the doctor handed them Amelia Adrian. Once she was safe in her mother’s arms the doctor disappeared. He had worked in Section for years, had always heard the rumors about Michael and Nikita. Like anyone else even remotely involved in their new lives, he was honored beyond words. Still, he knew that they deserved to be alone.

When they saw the doctor leaving the room, the group pounced on him. Their questions buzzing in the air. He only confirmed that both mother and daughter were doing well. Then he slipped away, refusing to share any more details. He knew the Samuelle’s would want it that way.

After spending time with just Nikita and Amelia, whom they already affectionately called, Mia, Michael went for Adam.

“Adam, how would you like to come meet your baby sister?” He beamed from ear to ear at the offer. Slowly, he crept into the room, cautious of what he might see. The room was already tidied up. Mia was sleeping in Nikita’s arms.

“Hello Adam, you want to see your sister?” Nikita was tired but happy.

“Uh-huh” Adam nodded. He slowly made his way to the bed. He stood tentatively by the bed, staring in awe.

“You can come up here.” Nikita told him. He was still uncertain, until Michael lifted him gently onto the bed.

“She’s so little.” He said.

“Do you want to hold her?” Nikita offered him.

“Can I really?”

“Of course, you’re her big brother.” Michael was so tender with his family. Adam sat against the pillows and headboards, then Michael handed him the baby.

“Hi Amelia Adrian Samuelle. I’m Adam. I’m your big brother.” Nikita and Michael’s eyes were moist with unshed tears at the sight of their two children together. “Hey, Mom, Dad, can we call her something else? That name is too long.” They laughed before telling him Mia was acceptable too.

Finally Madeline, Paul, and Walter were invited to see little Mia. They were in awe of her beauty. They exclaimed at the wisps of blond hair covering her head. Her beautiful hazel eyes. She was just as Nikita had dreamt her to be. Only now, it wasn’t a nightmare, Alex was dead.

A few days before Christmas Jason and Quinn arrived at the Samuelle estate. They were surprised to be included in the festivities but it was Michael and Nikita’s way of saying thank you for all their help. They were glad to be back in the presence of the Samuelle family, especially grateful for the chance to meet Baby Samuelle. They were smitten with Mia from the moment they laid eyes on her.

On Christmas Eve, everyone gathered in the dining hall for an exquisite feast. They had food to represent every culture and tradition. Laughter and merriment filled the room. Walter proposed a toast: “To the Samuelles, for giving an old man what he wanted most. Family, a place to call home, and the chance to witness ordinary miracles every day. Michael and Nikita, you were told your love would be the death of you both, but instead it was new life to everyone you’ve encountered. We are forever grateful. God bless!”

All present heartily agreed. It brought tears to Nikita’s eyes.

Michael simply nodded his head, ever so slightly.

Once supper was complete they adjourned to the living room. People took turns holding Mia, catching up on each others lives. Just enjoying the normalcy of the moment. It was not something they were entirely used to. They loved it just the same.

The minutes slipped away until finally it was nearing midnight. Adam was beginning to yawn though he insisted he wasn’t tired.

“If you want Santa to come, you have to go to bed.” Nikita warned.

“All right Mom.” He whined. It was strange for Quinn and Jason to hear Nikita referred to as “Mom” but it fit her. Michael and Nikita excused themselves to put Adam to bed. By the time his head hit the pillow he was sound asleep. When Michael and Nikita returned to the living room, their guests had already retired.

“Well, I guess we can start bringing out the presents.” Nikita suggested.

“Yes.” Michael pulled into his arms for a quick kiss before releasing her. They dragged bag after bag into the living room each one bulging with gifts. Lovingly they placed each brightly wrapped package under the tree. Both parents had went overboard celebrating their first Christmas as a family.

When the last bag was emptied they looked at the tree and smiled. It was perfect.

“Now what?” Nikita asked. She wasn’t a bit tired. Too excited for sleep. It was her first real Christmas as well.

“Let’s go have a glass of wine and sit on the deck.”

“I’d like that.” Nikita accepted his invitation. He poured them each a generous glass of red wine while Nikita gathered their coats, scarves, hats, boots, and mittens. Her mother instinct was working overtime.

“Nikita, it isn’t that cold.” Michael scolded lightly.

“It is a Michigan winter. I don’t want us to get sick.” She reasoned with him.

“Mon ami” he whispered into her temple as he kissed her lightly.

Together they made their way into the cold. They sat in silence for awhile, wrapped in each other’s arms. They sipped their wine as the cold nipped at their noses. Words were beyond them. It started to snow.

“Looks like we’ll have a white Christmas after all” Nikita’s voice sounded like a little child. She opened her mouth to catch snowflakes on her tongue. Michael had another idea, he pressed his lips to hers. He kissed her tenderly but released his hold on her.

They had not yet resumed physical intimacy since Mia’s birth. He didn’t want to start something they couldn’t finish. That would have been unbearable torment for them both.

“I’m sorry. You were trying to catch snowflakes.” He teased, hoping humor would cool the fire he had started in both their bodies.

“I prefer your lips.” She said, her voice hoarse.

“Nikita, we shouldn’t...” She silenced his pleas with a kiss. She was tired of waiting, she knew it was time. He needed some more convincing, so she crawled onto his lap. Pulling him closer to her, she kissed him deeply, passionately, claiming him. She needed him tonight.

“I’m ready.” She said when she broke their kiss.

“Are you sure?” He didn’t want to rush things, he could wait.

“Yes.” She held his gaze, stared him down, until his resolve melted in her heat.

They went inside, tearing at each other’s clothes as they progressed to the bedroom. It had been too long since they last new the feeling of being together as one.

“Wait, is Mia still sleeping?” Michael was always the voice of reason. Nikita sighed in exasperation but checked on the baby while he locked their door.

“Yes, she’s fine.” Nikita stated. Michael was still at the door. Too far away. She began to disrobe, hoping that it would draw him in closer. Slowly she slid out of her clothes until they lay in a pile on the floor. He watched her every movement intently, not coming any closer to her, until she was standing naked in front of the bed. “I love you.” He said out of nowhere. Then he closed the distance between them. He reached for her, pulling her into his arms. Holding her close. He wanted her, she could feel it. She reached for the hem of his shirt and lifted it over his head. When his shirt was discarded she ran her fingers over his chiseled body.

“Michael.” she moaned as she brought her lips to his chin. She started down his neck, to his chest, down his stomach, until she was kneeling in front of him. She reached for his pants, unzipping them, pulling them.

“Nikita, no.” He pulled her to her feet. Tonight was for her. He lifted her in his arms, her legs instinctively wrapped around his waist. Placing her lightly on the bed he fell onto her, into her. They didn’t want to draw things out, they needed to feel now. She shuddered at the feeling of him inside of her. It was even better than she had remembered.

He had been nervous for nothing and she rose to meet him, reassuring him that she was fine. Pleading that he wouldn't go easy on her. When their eyes met she saw he was still concerned. In a flash, she rolled him over, taking control.

“I’m ready.” She reaffirmed. He reached up to clasp her hips as she began to sway against him. It was desperate, it was needy. It was perfection. They moved together, bodies surging with pleasure. She was close but willed herself to wait for him. He started to dig his fingers into her hips, pulling her into him, she knew he was feeling it too. In one last explosive moment they smashed together, the friction sending them over the edge. She bit her lip to prevent herself from yelling and waking the baby. To muffle her name he buried his face in her breasts, nuzzling her soft flesh.

They stayed that way, joined together. Her hands were tangled in his hair. Her fingers running over his scalp. He held her close, letting his fingers slide over her spine. Then Mia started to cry. She wanted to be fed.

“Do you remember when we made love all night?” Nikita sighed into his ear.

“Always.”

“We won’t be able to do that for awhile, will we?” Her voice was sad.

“We’ll manage. We always have.” Michael reassured her. They slowly pulled apart. One person, splitting into two. She was searching for a robe, pleading with Mia to be patient. The child screamed, demanding her meal. Before Nikita could lift her from the crib Michael grabbed her by the hand. He pulled her into his arms again, kissing the back of her neck. She moaned at the feeling of him pressed against her.

“As soon as I’m done with Mia...” He kissed her in reply.

The next morning Adam came bounding into their room at seven sharp. As he bounced on the bed Nikita wondered when Michael had unlocked the door. She couldn’t recall. She tried to sit up and realized her body was sore. It was familiar and it felt good.

Michael saw her grimacing, his eyes expressed concern. Perhaps he had been too rough. She read his thoughts, and immediately kissed him fiercely. She wasn’t going to let him back off, she was already looking forward to tonight. They had a lot of time to make up for.

“Let’s go open presents!” Adam begged. He reached for both their hands, tugging on them. They laughed but got out of bed. Nikita lifted Mia from the crib while Michael carried Adam downstairs.

“Whoa!” Adam exclaimed when he saw the tree surrounded in presents.

“Are these all for me?” His voice was squeaking.

“Not all of them, but most of them.” Michael cautioned. “You’ll have to read the tags before you open anything.

“Ok,” he relented. When the last gift was opened, Michael’s phone rang. Nikita’s head snapped in the direction of the sound. Fear snatched at her heart.

“I’ll be right there.” Michael confirmed to the caller.

“Michael what is it?” Nikita’s throat was tight, she was afraid.

“I’ll be back.” Michael disappeared while she was still digesting the words. Nikita could hear the front door being opened.

“Nikita, I’m sure it’s ok.” Madeline tried to soothe her. It was without success for Nikita could hear the concern in Madeline’s voice as well. Heavy footsteps followed Michael’s as he made his way back to his family.

“Sorry I’m late, the snow delayed my flight.” All eyes turned towards the voice. Noise stopped. Then questions electrified the air.

“Amigo! Is that really you?” Walter asked in disbelief.

“Walter, it’s been too long.” Birkoff said as he dropped his bags in the doorway. He embraced his long time friend. Tears were running down Walter’s cheeks.

“Michael, I thought we agreed no more secrets.” Nikita scolded when she was able to form words.

“I didn’t know myself until a few days ago.” No one understood how Birkoff survived, or where he had been until now. No one cared either. He was back, and he was just in time.

When Madeline approached with outstretched hands, Birkoff clasped them warmly. She had tears in her eyes.

“It sure is good to see you again.” Something caught his eye, “what’s with the rock on your finger?” He questioned.

“I finally came to my senses.” Paul supplied the answer. It was another surprise that caught everyone off guard. The moment was confusing and loud. No one knew where to start, all were talking at once. Michael wrapped his arm around Nikita’s waist, squeezed her tightly to him. She turned her head and kissed his lips. Mia gurgled, her little baby noise.

“Hey, sugar, this is your first real Christmas. What did you ask for?” Walter questioned out of the blue. Suddenly the room quieted.

All eyes were now on Michael and Nikita, the Samuelles. Nikita looked around the room for a very long time. Adam was playing with his new toys. Madeline and Paul were beaming at the announcement of their engagement. Quinn was perched on an ottoman, smiling at her leaders, her friends, her family. Jason and Birkoff were standing side by side, for the first time. Walter stood in between them, celebrating the arrival of his long lost best friend. The smells of Mrs. Weatherby’s feast teasing their noses.

“Nothing. All my dreams have already come true.” She said with tears glistening her eyes.

THE END

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.