To the fine folks at Michael's Retreat: I have a story that I am going to post. Although new here, I have been\line devouring LFN Fan Fiction any place I can find it. I have been working on this since July ' 01. I am not the world's greatest writer but I have had this story inside me and need to get it out. I am a HR and this is how I would like to have seen things progress after the end of Season 5. Please realize that this is not a short piece. I won't dump it on you all at once. I will tell you that I have lots and lots of pages. Yes, it is sappy in places. It is simply written and will lack in sophistication. Some things happen that will be a stretch but it is how I wanted them to go being the HR that I am. I will try to stay accurate with the LFN story line. IT IS UNDENIABLY NC17 !!! (hence my question to CarolinaM) So, you've been warned. The characters belong to LFN, USA, Fireworks etc. and I do not mean to infringe by using any of them and claim no rights to anything copyrighted. So, without further fanfare and lowering of your expectations, I offer....

CHAPTER 1

She walked up the steps and into the door of the home, the fortress, her father had left her. Her mind was reeling with a million emotions, most of them involving deep sadness. Michael and Adam had left after the funeral.

Nikita was alone. She had lost her father, the final piece in the puzzle of her complicated and often tragic life. Her father, was a man who until recently, had been a dream that Nikita was never sure would become a reality. He had become real and she now understood her painful past. She was just starting to know him, understand him. That cut short, all she was left with was respect and admiration for what he had done. He had sacrificed for her. He knew it was the only way to prove his love. Nikita had already given up so much of herself. She had died internally more than once. With his death, she could now live. She now understood how much she had meant to him. He had given her the one person that meant everything. The one person she had based her entire existence on was her one true and everlasting love: Michael Samuelle.

A wave of deep grief swept over her. She was empty inside. Walking down the hallway, tears again welled. Her vision blurred. She stumbled into her room utterly lost and alone. Without taking off her coat, she crawled onto the bed and curled up into a ball. She shut her eyes. Her tears leaked out the corners and she drifted off to sleep. She needed to sleep. It had been weeks of uncertainty, worry and loss. She knew that no matter what happened, she would end up losing someone important to her. How ironic it was that she lost them all? Her body took charge of her emotions and there she felt release in sleep. The problems would be back. For now, slumber was and had been her only asylum and she chose to stay there for as long as possible.

One day turned into three. Nikita was hibernating herself from sadness and the upcoming tasks at hand. She knew the road ahead was going to be long and lonely. For now, sleep and dreams were her refuge.

A knock came on the door. It opened slightly.

"Miss Nikita? Are you awake?" A man's voice, gentle and British filled the room.

No answer.

The door opened a bit wider revealing an older gentleman, a butler type.

Nikita awoke and reality washed over her. Her dreams had been better. Her memories were so sweet. Turning her back to the older gentleman, she laid there, and closed her eyes once again. Her mind was reminiscing of the last time in Michael's arms. In the very bed in which she was now taking refuge. Ignoring the gentleman at the door, her mind drifted. It had seemed like years had passed, had it just been five days?

Michael and Adam were soon to leave on a train headed for God only knew where. As Adam lay sleeping with Michael in the room across the hall, Nikita entered quietly and slowly walked across the room. How peaceful they looked sleeping. There was not a trace of trauma on Adam's face.

Adam had experienced Hell first hand. In his young life he had to deal with the sudden supposed death of his father, the death of his mother, his kidnaping and the terror he experienced at the hand of The Collective.

None of that mattered now. His daddy had come back, from the dead. This could not be said of his mother. His heart was healing and he was safe. He would bounce back. Children have that ability if there is love. Adam knew love from the moment he was born. His mother and father had loved him dearly. Nikita too, loved him. He knew it when he was with her.

"Daddy, I don't understand, Is Nikita your cousin? My Aunt? How is she related to me?" He would question Michael with trusting eyes. His eyes had the same look of trust as did his mother's. He knew that Nikita was more than just a friend. He could feel her love and fierce protection. Although he missed his mother terribly, he somehow understood that Nikita belonged with them. Perhaps, one day he would understand it all.

"Nikita is your dear friend, Adam. She loves you and me. I love her. No, she is not related but she is my best friend. We are so lucky to know her," Michael's soft voice purred, gentle and true.

He would then look at Nikita with loving eyes. Just to hear him say those words, the look on his face told her. She would melt. Her heart had been right all along. It had always known the truth.

Her mind returned to their last night together. She had quietly entered the room Adam was staying in to find Michael and Adam asleep in the bed.

Kneeling down, she softly touched Michael's cheek. His sleepy green eyes opened. Reaching up, he took her hand and brushed it against his lips.

His eyes never left hers. There they were in the darkness gazing upon one another with the moon providing ample light. Whose tears formed first? Michael was crying. He almost had it all. His love was overwhelming him.

His heart was heavy and full. The two things that mattered most were by his side. Adam sighed in his sleep and turned onto his side. Slowly, Michael slid his arm from under Adam's tiny neck and then rolled off of the bed onto the floor. He then tucked a bear into Adam's arms and the covers around him. Adam let out another sigh and settled even deeper into a blissful slumber.

Michael then turned to Nikita. They sat together on the floor soaking in the reality that they were alive and together. He smiled at her, leaned forward and gently kissed her. His tongue lightly swept into her mouth along the edges of her teeth. Nikita leaned forward and kissed him back, harder, much harder.

Michael wrapped one arm around her waist, using his chest, he eased her back onto the floor. His thigh pushed between her legs and pressed against her, gently rocking. His mouth disclosed to her all he was feeling. His desperate passion was now evident. Just to be kissing her was a miracle. Days before, he had to deal with the terrifying thought of leaving this world and leaving her and Adam behind. His soul was grateful for being given the gift of one more day with them. He buried the sudden sadness that he felt knowing he would soon have to leave her to be with Adam. His goal was to love her, worship her and leave her with a memory that would sustain her.

Lying on the floor entwined was incredible.

Michael's mind raced. There was so much he wanted to relay to her.

Slowly, he kissed her neck. First his kisses were soft and full but gradually the kisses turned to bites and then he sucked and licked her skin, tasting her.

Nikita felt herself turning to liquid. She sighed and wrapped her fingers in Michael's hair, holding on. She was trying to remember every feeling and touch. Her hands moved down Michael's bare back. Every scar she felt, made her love for him stronger. Many scars were made saving her life.

He had put her existence and protection before the missions. She was his strength, and his weakness.

Michael was wearing silk pajama pants while Nikita was still fully dressed in a sweater and jeans. He rose up on his knees and reached down. He pulled up on her black sweater, exposing her soft skin in the moonlight.

Unhooking her bra, he then nuzzled her breasts with his face. The scent of her skin, the taste of her in his mouth burned into him. With the thought of what was to come, Nikita could feel Michael's hardness against her thigh. She knew it was to be inside her-soon. Another wave of warm wetness washed inside her and out into her panties.

She took Michael's hand and placed his middle finger into her mouth.

Tracing the edges with her tongue, she licked and sucked the tip. Michael groaned. She quickly moved to his index finger and did the same. She then put both fingers in her mouth and sucked the long soft fingers deep within her mouth, rubbing her tongue between the two. Michael envisioned her intentions and liquid seeped from his penis, preparing him for what was to come.

Adam stirred. It was time to get off of the floor and go to Nikita's bedroom.

Michael rose to his feet. He turned his back to Adam to hide the erection that pulled his pajama pants taught. He held his hand out to help Nikita up from the floor. She stopped when on her knees. She looked up at Michael longingly while she tugged the waistband on his pants up and over his engorged penis. It leapt out at her. Nikita firmly placed her hand around it's base while holding the elastic band in place. Her mouth watered at the sight. Had it been so long since she was this close? It felt like it had been eternity. She loved every part of this man. She thought of his eyes and how they had always betrayed his hurtful, cold words. Then there was his mouth that God had made to fit just perfectly with hers. His strong arms had saved her life so many times. His stomach, strong and ripped. She looked lovingly at his chest. It held the heart she loved to hear pounding after they made love. Then there was his penis. It was long, thick and so engorged. It was also all hers and she hungered for it. She licked her lips and then traced them with the head. The tip of her tongue then tasted him.

Michael closed his eyes and took a deep breath. She opened her mouth and welcomed him into her. Slowly, she sucked the head while she rubbed her tongue around and around. She could taste the glandular liquid oozing from him. She moaned at the taste. Michael grabbed her hair to hold onto. God knows he had to do something to help steady himself. He could feel the familiar hotness in his thighs and buttocks. The hot, buzzing sensations were enveloping him. Nikita opened her mouth further to take in as much of Michael as she could. All the time she was rubbing her tongue on the underside. She hungrily sucked and moved back and forth on his throbbing shaft taking him as deep within her as she could. She could feel the fire burning inside her. Her clitoris throbbed as it rubbed against the seam of her jeans.

Michael regained enough mental clarity to know that she had to stop. He couldn't take much more of her attention. Nikita knew where she wanted him to be as the ache within her made her moan. He took a deep breath and then gently pulled her away. She carefully returned the waistband of his pants to its proper position. Her eyes were wide and dark as she smiled up at him with a smoldering look that only added to his desire. He lifted her up to her feet. Hand in hand, they silently left Adam's room and walked down the hallway to Nikita's room.

They were now alone. They no longer had to hide their passion. This time, there were no cameras to record and no eyes watching. A huge bed with the best linens pulled down waited for them. Candlelight made the scene before them perfect. Once they were both inside, Michael turned to shut the door and locked it.

"Little eyes," he whispered explaining the locking of the door. His eyes danced with happiness and desire. How funny and comforting it felt to have to worry about a little person walking in on their lovemaking even though their passionate display on the floor had not stirred him. Adam being in the same house with them felt natural. Michael thought about this and yearned for them to be together forever.

Nikita turned to Michael and their lovemaking resumed. He lightly stroked her cheek and kissed her softly. They both smiled knowing what was to follow. He reached down and grabbed both sides of her sweater and gently pulled it up and off. Nikita stood there with her breasts exposed as the front hook bra dangled off of her shoulders. With one finger of each hand, he easily slipped the bra off of her. Her nipples, pink and erect, waited for his touch. He gently rolled them with his finger tips. She took hold of his head and pulled him close to her.

"I will never tire of the scent of your skin, Kita," he whispered while kissing, licking and sucking her. His hands were busy attending to her jeans. With just one hand he was able to unbutton her fly. Her spine tingled as he slid his hand down into her panties. She remembered the first time he had touched her there. He expertly moved his hand further down past her mound and into the wetness that was eagerly awaiting his touch.

"Oh, God. Michael," she sighed. "I love you so much. Just the thought of your touch drives me wild."

Nikita could barely stand. He caressed her with his hand, occasionally plunging a finger into her wet and waiting body. He could feel her sway with his strokes and knew she needed to lie down. Michael withdrew his hand and lustfully licked her juices from his fingers. His eyes locked with hers.

Nikita had always tasted so delicious. This time was different. Her taste was even sweeter than before. Her flavor and essence were enveloping him. Gently, he laid her down and stood back up gazing at her intently. He took her pant legs and tugged. Nikita lifted her hips from the mattress and the tight fitting jeans slipped off her long, lean legs. Michael pitched them on the floor. Her panties were white lace and down around her thighs. The crotch was drenched with her desire. The tight jeans had helped Michael with the task of removing them. He leaned onto the bed and pulled her panties off the rest of the way. Holding them close to his nose, he inhaled her scent again.

"My God, Kita. I swear your scent is sweeter than ever," his voice burned into her.

Nikita writhed watching him soaking in her scent. He then tossed the drenched panties onto the floor and returned his gaze to her. He leaned onto the bed and parted Nikita's legs, opening her to him. He knelt on the bed, his legs hanging over, knees on the floor. It was as if he was there to worship her. In many ways, he was. He scooped her thighs and bottom with both arms, exposing her most private area and leaned forward to taste her. She was so wet for him and he eagerly licked her, tasting her, loving her. His tongue was pure magic. She drifted with the feeling, closing her eyes and lost herself in his love. Her bottom started to buzz and burn. He worked hard savoring every part of her flesh. Her clitoris throbbed with the licking and sucking of it. There was no one like Michael. There would never be anyone but him ever again. He would bring her so close to ecstasy and then back down. Nikita could feel herself getting pulled out into the waves, so close to climax. Michael knew how close she was. His pleasure was multiplied at the thought of how much he pleased her.

"Kita.....Let yourself go. You are so beautiful," his voice gave her permission to release. His mouth and expert hands returned to their vocation. She lost herself in the building pleasure. With one more intense stroke of his fingers, she was set free. Nikita's body convulsed against him. Michael held her down and drank from her. His fingers stroked inside of her, feeling her contract against them. She drifting in another place as her body pulsated.

Slowly, he worked his way back up her body and stopped at her breasts.

He again concentrated his efforts to arouse her. His attention there, the biting and sucking sent shocks deep inside her. She once again felt the need to feel him, to please him.

"I want you inside me," she growled. "Now! Oh God, Michael." Her panting was getting shallower. "I cannot take it. Please, please help me. Love me." Her growl was now just a whimper.

With that, he knew it was time. He had to help her, love her, worship her.

He wanted to take away all of the pain she had ever endured and give her nothing but bliss. He quivered with anticipation. The mere taste of her had driven him wild. The sounds of utter pleasure coming from Nikita's mouth made his desire border on insanity. He stood up to remove his pajama pants. Nikita stared at him and his erection. She moaned in anticipation.

He took in the beautiful scene before him. Nikita basked in the candlelight. The radiant glow of love was on her face and body. He knelt on the bed and slowly crawled between her welcoming thighs. She reached and grabbed his penis and guided it into her warm waiting vagina. Both let out a sigh. Nikita felt emptiness filled and Michael felt her warmth envelope him. This was home. The safest place either had ever been. Michael kissed her softly. They gazed into one another's eyes. This moment was perfect. Neither wanted it to ever end.

It was not long after that their desire overtook them. He began to slowly stroke in and out. Each thrust was a devotion to her. Their eyes never left the other's gaze. Their love was so immense and consuming. She pushed herself against him taking him deeper and deeper into herself. This was not their animalistic mating of the past. It was a slow strong dance. It was an expression of their eternal love. Nikita could feel a deep throb within her.

The insides of her thighs were burning and tingling.

"Kita, you are so beautiful when I am inside you," he whispered reverently.

Michael could feel the heat building within him. The pure pleasure washing over him, layer upon layer. He could no longer keep his slow, methodical pace. The look of love and pleasure in her eyes penetrated his soul. He had to show her how much he loved her. His body slammed into hers with harder, deliberate strokes. His mouth overtook hers, kissing her, exploring her with his tongue. He broke from the kiss and turned her head to the side. He attacked her sweat-covered neck with his mouth. He bit her and then soothed the same flesh with his lips and tongue. His mouth then found her ear and repeated the torment. The combination of pleasure he bestowed sent her even further into delirium. His next move would be her undoing. He grabbed her hair and bit her sensitive neck one more time. "Come for me, Nikita," he moaned. "Let it go. Let it go."

He then wrapped his hands tightly around her ass and drove himself into her. Nikita cried out in long low moans. The pleasure was so intense. The crest within her commenced. The sound of her cry, the stroke of him into her hungry walls was too much. The feeling swallowed them both. Neither could last - the pleasure too intense, too perfect. They were made for one another, a perfect fit. Michael kept a pattern of tight circular motion as he pressed himself against her. This was their undoing. Waves of ecstasy overtook them as the climax exploded in both. She held onto him as if they were falling from the sky. Her orgasm intensified beyond anything she had ever experienced. Nikita's mind was reeling as her body convulsed with euphoria. Michael's hot liquid burst into Nikita's contracting womb. She could feel his warmth filling her, comforting her. He could not stop the ejaculations. His legs were without feeling as his arms continued to hold her tightly against him. He was giving her all of his body and soul. She closed her eyes, drifting, throbbing. Her tight walls milked him with pleasure. Her own juices washed over him. Michael collapsed onto her, breathing heavily. He did not want to leave her warmth. He wanted to stay inside her for eternity.

They rested in silence. This was heaven.

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

After each had come down, Michael lifted his head and looked deep into Nikita's eyes. His love so was evident upon his beautiful face.

"Nikita, you know that I love you. I always have."

She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply. She knew the only reason for his spoken confession was to ease her weary soul. Both knew he and Adam would soon have to disappear. His next words confirmed and tormented her. To hear him articulate so directly was bittersweet.

"From the moment I first laid eyes upon you, I knew. I knew that I had found the 'one.'I never used to believe that there was someone out there just for me. My faith in God and the human race had been extinguished. One look, and a flame ignited within me. No matter how hard I tried to push your love away, it came back to me even stronger. Regardless of what happens to us, please know how much I love you...cherish you."

He kissed her softly and gently pulled himself off of her. Not wanting to lose the closeness, he then laid next to her. He pulled her to his side and started to stroke her forehead and smoothed back her tousled hair. She stared at the ceiling trying to reign in her emotions.

"Michael. How will I go on without you?" She was now sobbing. "My love for you is so immense. I don't think I can live without you. I have tried. I am incomplete. My heart is breaking at the thought of you leaving me." She rolled onto her side away from him. She sighed, "Tell me, how will I survive this? In your arms is where I belong. I love you so much and now I am losing you. I will not make it, I just know that I will die without you."

Her sorrow burrowed deep within him. His logic told him that he had to leave to protect Adam, but his heart ached at the realization that he was going to be severed from his soul-mate. They laid there in the silence.

There were no easy answers. He pulled himself to her again. Stroking her hair behind her ear, he softly whispered, "Sleep, Kita. Let me hold you. Dream of our future. It will happen. After this life and the love we will share in the future, we will have an eternity to spend together. Surely, heaven waits for us."

His words soothed her aching soul. Michael had done his best to give her hope. He held her even tighter and caressed her. The warmth of his touch and the gentle reassurance comforted her.

Exhausted, she drifted into sleep. Michael watched her. Tears ran down his face. His words had consoled her for the time being, however, they did nothing to mend his heart. He wanted to be with her forever. He kissed her bare shoulder and then laid his head on the pillow. Fatigue overtook him.

He drifted into sleep.

Nikita's memories then flashed to the next morning.

A good night's sleep had renewed her will to fight for their love. She had awakened to find not one man in her bed, but two. When had Michael got up and put on his pajama pants and unlocked their door? When did Adam come into their room? Michael was a father. He knew to do these things.

Nikita smiled, his fatherly instincts were turning her on. Adam lay on top of their covers with his own blanket. Nikita's nude body was covered with the bed linens, thanks to her lover.

"Good morning." Michael whispered. Love was in his eyes as he gazed upon her.

Nikita smiled. He then handed her a silk robe. Carefully, she slipped it on and headed for the bathroom. Her body reminded her of what had transpired. She loved the soreness she felt after one of their sessions.

After taking care of mother nature, she brushed her teeth and jumped in the shower. The hot water and steam reactivated the scent of their lovemaking emanating from between her thighs. She inhaled the musky scent of sex and smiled. The bathroom door opened and Michael walked in. He then shut the door and locked it. After taking care of a few of his own necessities, the shower door opened. Green eyes and a mischievous smile met her.

"Michael! Adam? Sleeping in our bed? What do you think you are doing in here?" Her voice was hoarse and exasperated.

"Shhhhh. He's down having breakfast. You know that there are people here to assist." He grinned at her. His eyes were heavy with desire. He kissed her and pulled her under the stream of hot water. Their lovemaking commenced once more.

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

CHAPTER 2

"Miss Nikita. It's time." The older man's gentle voice broke into her sweet memory and awakened her to her new reality.

"I'm sorry,"she said and did her best to smile as she stretched her arms above her head. "What is your name, sir?"

"I am Smith, ma'am. I served your father for twenty years. Now, if you choose to keep me around, I would be honored to work for you." His gentle voice and demeanor soothed her.

"Ohhh. I haven't been too functional for the past few days. I apologize." Nikita's voice was soft and shaking.

"It was to be expected. We had all planned for it. The past few weeks have been difficult for us all, my dear. Your father was a good and fair man. You have been left quite a task and legacy. A legacy as such that he was certain you could handle, with help. Now, I have taken the liberty of laying out some clothing and your bath has been drawn. I will leave you now. Please come to your father's office when you are dressed and ready. Breakfast will be waiting for you." Mr. Smith then turned and left the room, closing the door behind him.

Nikita did as she was told. It had become automatic for her to take orders from people over the years. It was comforting to be told a plan of action even if it was to bathe, dress and come to breakfast. For Nikita was at a loss as to how to go on living past that.

Michael was gone. Sure, there were the hope and promise of a future life together, when Adam had grown. They would be safe away from her, away from anything that had to do with the organization that had brought them together. Michael and Adam's needs would be met. That was a comfort to her. The emptiness that she now felt inside was the most painful thing she had ever endured. She would have preferred physical torture at the hands of some deranged terrorist, than the pain she was feeling now. This pain seemed to have no end. As if on an autopilot, she did as she was told. She went through the motions and showed up in her father's office where her breakfast waited for her.

She had forgotten how hungry she was. Devouring her breakfast, she gazed out into the woods that surrounded her new home. Mr. Smith walked in the room.

"Nikita. Your father planned very carefully for this day. He knew that there was a very good chance he would not be here when you took on this position. If you will direct your attention to the screen, I will leave you alone with your father. If you need anything, just call for me." Mr. Smith smiled, turned and left the room.

Nikita leaned back in the well-worn leather chair. Her father's taste in decor was all around her. It was not quite urban enough for her liking, but somehow the style fit her new life and she found comfort in her father's surroundings. With a cup of tea in hand, she pressed the remote and the video screen appeared. There was her father, sitting in the very chair she now occupied.

"Hello, Nikita. If you are watching this, it means that my time with you was cut short. However, being a man of details, I prepared. First off, let me tell you how proud I am of you. It was never my intention to abandon you as a child, it was the only way to keep you safe as I am sure you know from your experiences with Michael and little Adam. I couldn't let anyone know about you and your sister. Even sending money was dangerous. I could trust no one. Things were not as sophisticated as they are now. I had to abandon you to keep you alive. Your life was difficult and often tragic but you had the enate ability and found the strength and will to survive. Your success and growth in Section One had to be earned. That was imperative for you to be successful in your current position." Her father's voice was gentle and reassuring.

Nikita felt as if she had crossed over some barrier and was now on the other side of the picture of her life. She could feel the love and pride in her father's voice.

Her father continued, "I need to tell you about your past. You need to know our heritage, and that of your half-sister, Michelle. Please use your heart when trying to understand all that has happened. When it comes to our history, the heart is better suited in understanding rather than the head."

His story was long and often painful. So much was revealed to her. She was filled with a sense of pride, relief and contentment. For the first time in her life, she felt like more than just a street urchin in designer clothes. Her lineage and history were so much more important and relevant than she could have imagined. The realization that she was valued by more than just Michael, astounded her.

After her personal history lesson, her instruction ensued. Countless hours of advice, biographies on world leaders and secrets only known to a handful of people were revealed to her. Protocol and procedure were explained to her in the most logical way.

She was introduced to those she would have to answer to. Her father gave her in depth profiles on each person. It astounded her to find not only people of tremendous political power and clout, put peaceful, philanthropic individuals, most deeply involved in their various charities and faiths. Nikita had been hired to keep the world safe by whatever means. Most members of the committee did not have the penchant for the bloodshed that was necessary, but they understood that someone had to be there to fight the pure evil that existed in the world. She now understood that she had to do the best job possible, to keep this committee in control. Her protection of them was a symbiotic relationship. As long as both kept the other in power, both would benefit and the world would be a safer place.

Her father had left her that fateful day on the bridge with the thought that she would be running Section One. She had spent a day there after Michael and Adam had left, before she was summoned home where she would be sheltered from the impact of some of her choices. Her father had thought it too much to tell her the actual truth of her new position at the time he saw her last. Little did she know that her real task was to be that of running Center. He had not told her of his real intentions because he knew that her fragile self image would not allow her to think she was capable. Running the Sections, Oversight and Center were huge tasks. Nikita was overwhelmed at first.

Knowing now what she knew, something deep inside told her, she was more than capable. Her technical and tactical knowledge was more than adequate, but it was her heart and sense of compassion that made her the perfect choice.

"Nikita, you have spent countless days reviewing this information. Now, I would like to give you some fatherly advice. First and foremost, take care of yourself. Now that you know that who the committee members are, you know that you do not have to fear for your life because of them. You are there to protect them and they will do the same for you. As long as you continue to produce favorable results. Your enemy is the same one it has always been, evil. Fight it by surrounding yourself with the best. Your only weakness is also your greatest attribute, your compassion. Follow your heart, but use your brain. My dream for the Center and its entities is to have you make them your own. The Sections are the killing machines of this organization. That cannot change. However, you lived as an operative and you know what can and cannot be modified. Section has to evolve if it is to survive. Your rules, it is in your hands. My child, so to speak, is now yours. Remember, surround yourself with the best. You know whom you can trust." With that, the screen went blank and her father's wisdom and instruction were complete.

She shut off the screen, closed her eyes and sighed. The huge task was now at hand. It was up to her to protect the innocents. She knew that she had to have the very best, the most ruthless, the intelligent and the wise. But she couldn't have Michael. She laughed at the irony.

It was time once again to turn on the machine, so to speak. Calls were made. People were in place. Sections were consolidated, closed and combined for new efficiency, until their numbers were up with quality people. The machine was up and running.

Nikita was able to use her head, heart in check. The ends were to justify the means.

************ Michael and Adam had been gone for four weeks and three days. Nikita kept the tally running in her head. There had been no word from them. That was their plan, to ensure their safety. Nikita's days were filled with tough choices, tactical planning, personnel issues and the like. The thought of Michael would drift into her mind at times when his kind of thinking was needed. Nikita's nights, however, were filled only with dreams of him, their love and loss. She had not left the fortress she now called home. There was no reason to leave. All commands emanated from there. It was much easier and safer due to the anonymity it offered, to make the tough choices so far removed from the very lives those choices affected.

Nikita could feel her heart growing stronger and more immune to some of the decisions she had to make. She was learning to split herself into two different people.

One was the real Nikita. That was where she kept her love for Michael and Adam. The other persona was that of a tough leader. She was now one who was ruthless when necessary and able to make the tough judgements. Nikita was finding it easier to be the later. Her heart didn't ache nearly as much in this role. It was easy to assume this role with no one around to unveil her heart. She was a machine, and those around her where in awe and admiration of how right she was for the job. Her father had been right.

The thought of her true love was always present in her dreams and often during her work day. During her day, when the situation arose, she would often use Michael's kind of logic to help her. Many of her options were based on what she felt Michael would have done. All the years of anger toward Michael and his ruthlessness where now looked at in a different light. Nikita had known, deep down, that Michael had made the right choices even when those choices hurt her deeply. Her anger never lasted then.

Now, she was ashamed at some of her outbursts at his decisions. She knew that he had seen more, lived more and knew what it took to keep himself and her alive. She incorporated his persona with her own.

Nikita's sister, Michelle, stayed in the house part of the time and also had her own place and identity in the real world. Michelle was different from Nikita. Michelle had another life outside of the Center. She was able to have a life outside due to her mother's placement in society. Nikita had developed into the perfect operative while Michelle had become the perfect assistant. Take any family and the personalities differ.

This was true here also. Michelle was a follower and happy in that role. Nikita was growing to love her sister. They had nothing in common except for exceptional taste and a penchant for the finer things. Michelle had grown up in wealth and privilege. Her mother was wealthy and although her pregnancy was not planned, it did not devastate her financially. Michelle had not had to fight for survival like her half sister did. She had grown up with the best and it was all she knew. Nikita grew up with nothing and learned to appreciate the goods things. She knew what it was to have nothing beautiful in her life.

Nikita and Michelle were learning to start to talk to one another as sisters. However, there was so much that Nikita could not bring herself to tell Michelle. Many of Nikita's life experiences were not the things to share with someone outside of Section. Only those that lived the life of an operative could relate or understand. Nikita missed Michael when their talks turned to Nikita's life. Michael understood more than any other person could. Michael was gone. Michelle knew that Nikita missed him terribly.

Michelle's personality reminded Nikita of many of the Section trainees that didn't quite make it as operatives. Michelle was too soft. Nikita realized that her father had also found this to be true and therefore pulled Michelle under his wing early to protect her.

Michelle could give him the comfort of having a daughter. Nikita had been chosen to take over the family business. Nikita now felt pride that her father thought of her as the strong one. She had been given the gifts of both his strength as well as her mother's, before drinking and drugs had taken over.

Michelle knew how deeply Nikita loved Michael. Her father had kept her abreast of their relationship. Michael was Nikita's savior in Section and had secured her growth there without Mr. Jones having to step in and save her. Michael was Nikita's benefactor, and Mr. Jones was thankful. Michelle wondered if she could handle love from someone like Michael Samuelle in her life. Her fear was that she would fall deeply in love only to lose him. She doubted she could be as strong as Nikita was. Nikita outwardly seemed to be coping with her loss.

Michelle could hear Nikita crying in her room at night. Nikita also talked in her sleep. Much of what she said was nonsense except for his name, Michael. Every once in a while, Michelle would catch Nikita standing in her office, looking out the window into the woods, staring at the stark winter scene, her eyes welling with tears. Nikita was suffering and Michelle did not know if she would be able to endure the profound loss Nikita was experiencing.

Nikita was indeed suffering. However, suffering in one form or another had been part of her life for so long that she didn't know any better. It broke Michelle's heart to see the sacrifice Nikita had made. Was this what their father had wanted? What had he sacrificed himself for? Did he intend for Nikita to live the next decade or so in pain and loneliness? Was it worth trying to protect the innocents of the world so she could die a little inside every day? Michelle knew Nikita had the mental fortitude of her father to make it work. It all seemed so senseless though. With Nikita's new position and obvious overwhelming approval from the committee, she was practically untouchable. Why then, did she have to grieve like this?

**********

Chapter 3

Michael was with his son once again. After leaving Nikita at the station, he carefully charted a journey and eventually they arrived on the Northeast coast of the United States. There, he purchased a boat and they set out to sail down the coast of America.

Michael wanted to immerse Adam with the sights and sounds of the country he had planned for them to call home. There were so many opportunities and ways to delight the small boy. Michael talked of Adam's mother and did his best to explain why he had left Adam and her. He never lied to the boy. He just kept the explanations simple. He always assured his love for Adam and Elena. Michael wanted Adam to know the truth, however painful, so he could understand their new lifestyle. Michael had no more need for deceit or the pain that it caused. He wanted Adam to have as normal life as possible.

Adam often asked about Nikita. Would she visit them? Michael had told Adam that he loved Nikita but that they could not be together. This made no sense to the boy. He loved her too and could not understand why they could not see her.

"Dad, why can't Nikita come and live with us? She would take good care of you and me." Adam would say innocently.

Adam was too young to understand the current conflict in Michael and Nikita's relationship. He just understood Nikita meant love and goodness.

"Someday, when you are grown, Nikita will be with us. With her job, she cannot be a part of our lives. I know it is hard to understand and I wish it could be different. Just know that she loves you and misses you. You can feel it your heart, can't you?" Michael replied. "Let's get out some books and think of something else. What do you want to read? Something in Spanish, or perhaps German?"

"French, daddy." Adam eagerly replied. He wanted to be like his father.

Together they settled on the overstuffed leather couch and opened a French children's story book. Michael began to read to his son. The contentment of the moment was only tainted by the sadness he felt and his unending longing for Nikita. She was the missing piece. Deep inside his soul ached. He was so happy to have his son, but lost and alone without her. **********

Chapter 4

Michael and Adam had reached Florida. Michael rented a car and drove Adam to Disney World as he imagined all good father's did. They stayed in one of the resort hotels owned by Disney. It was not the most expensive, but it was nice and on Disney property which was close to all the venues. Michael was patient. The crowds and lines set him on edge. This was for Adam, he would remind himself. Together, they explored every square inch of the place. It took Michael time to learn to enjoy being a father, doing what normal fathers and sons would do together. They ate at Epcot every night for supper. They sampled the varieties of food served from the different "Countries."

Adam's father always impressed the wait staff, who were usually from the "Country" they were representing, with his fluent command of their native language. Adam longed to be just like his father. Michael could see the joy return in his little boys eyes. Michael enjoyed the feeling of being a normal father, raising an extraordinary son. The day to day adventures as well as quiet times spent together were beginning to ease the guilt Michael had felt for not being there for Adam and his mother.

Adams nightmares were decreasing. Michael's, however, continued. Sleep was the one area Michael where could not control his thoughts. Most of Michael's nightmares revolved around his inability to protect those he loved. Simone and Elena were gone.

Nikita was always out of reach and in danger in his dreams. Michael was unable to save her. She never would die in his dreams as Simone and Elena did. She would just drift away. Her beautiful image would fade and no matter how hard he would search and call for her, she would disappear. This horrible feeling would always wake him and he would find himself drenched in sweat and shaking. Was Nikita going to drift away in real life? His love for her was as strong as ever, perhaps even stronger. His fear of eventually losing her by their complicated lives getting in the way, terrified him.

He would catch the glimpse of a stranger. A leggy blond would make his heart race. He would laugh at himself. Could it be? No, of course not. The stranger's face always disappointed him and her voice sounded like fingernails on a blackboard. No one, no one had a voice like his Nikita. He needed her face, her intense blue eyes, her lips and every inch of her body. He longed to hear the one incredibly sexy voice that could make a simple request such as, "Please pass the salt," sound like a come on. Having no contact was the price he had to pay in order to keep Adam safe.

Michael immersed himself in Adam. Michael had a wealth of knowledge to share. He surrounded Adam in art, literature, music (he on the cello and Adam starting with the violin), and physical exercise. Adam was coming along very quickly in the martial arts.

Martial arts were something he had been learning from a very young age. Michael taught him as much as he thought Adam could handle. Although Adam was small, Michael wanted him to have some basic skills. Adam relished the idea of being able to defend himself and escape from his captors. He knew what it was like to be held against his will. The empowerment his father was teaching him was exhilarating to Adam. It gave him a sense of control. Adam possessed a prowess in this area. It disturbed Michael, deep inside, that his son showed so much aptitude in this discipline.

Michael had decided that he and Adam would spend the cold winter months in the Florida Keys. The warm weather would sooth Michael's joints. Old injuries did not haunt him nearly as much without the cold weather to inflame them. He enrolled Adam in a local school. He provided the necessary forged documents to blend in. As far as the staff knew, Michael was a writer, working on his latest book. He told them he wrote technical manuals, not fiction. This curbed their curiosity and not wanting to appear nosy or ignorant, they kept their questions to a minimum. This suited Michael and intimidated the school staff.

Adam made friends easily and was skilled at not revealing too much about his father or his life. Adam had discovered that the way to do this was to be the one asking questions. Again, Michael could see himself in his son. Already cunning? Adam's innate abilities disturbed Michael. However, Adam also had much of his mother in him. Her skin tone and dancing dark eyes and her sweet smile were all part of Adam. Adam's trusting nature was also a gift from his mother. Perhaps Adam would have a chance at a decent life.

*********** Chapter 5

A week and a half had passed since Nikita's flu had started. She had become a picky eater, which was totally unlike her profile. The symptoms were getting worse, not better. She ignored them the best she could. She did her best to focus on her new role for it was the only area she had any control. Nikita forced fluids upon herself and was successfully keeping them down roughly half of the time.

After a particularly turbulent day, filled with decisions that would alter many lives, she announced to Michelle and Mr. Smith,

"I am exhausted. I am going to bed. Please do not disturb me unless the world is ending." She then smiled rather weakly and stood up, stretching and yawning.

She headed to her master suite. Once inside, she spent an hour exercising. Her fitness equipment tucked neatly into one of the many closets when not in use. She strived to be as strong and nimble as when she was as an operative. No matter how tired she was, something within pushed her. She never wanted to lose her edge or get soft. Although she was safe, she could not adjust her mind set. She could not shake the feeling that her status could change in a blink of an eye.

After her workout, she headed for the bathroom for a quick shower. It used to be that a good, hot soak in the tub suited her after a long, stressful day. Since her illness, the hot water of the tub did nothing but activate her nausea and make her feel weak. After a quick shower, she did her nightly ritual of applying a moisturizer to every inch of her body.

Her body was now visibly thinner. Nikita looked at herself in the mirror. Her ribs were now evident. Her cheekbones were gaunt and her legs were downright skinny.

"I just need more rest," she sighed.

She brushed her teeth, again careful not to trigger the gag reflex and popped a multi vitamin onto her tongue. She knocked it back with tap water from her cupped hands. Standing back up, she took another look in the mirror. What would Michael think of her body? It looked as if it belonged to someone else entirely.

Michael. Her mind always found away to bring him to the forefront. She closed her eyes and focused on her mental image of him. In her mind, he was behind her, brushing her hair from her neck and tenderly kissing her exposed skin. Her vision continued with his hand sliding down between her legs. With a deep breath, she brought her own hand between her legs. It was Michael touching her.

"Michael," she whispered, "Michael."

Could he feel her loneliness? She missed his touch. Her heart ached as she caressed herself. Just the mental image of him coupled with her own manipulation was enough. Her body was on edge with desire. Slowly, she reached her right breast with her other hand. There, she found pain, not the pleasure she anticipated. It ached and was tender to the touch. It felt as if it were swollen. Her nipple hurt to the point of being ultra sensitive.

Surprised, she opened her eyes and looked at her body again. Again, her first thought was that it looked like it belonged to someone else, not Nikita.

She was indeed gaunt in some areas however, her breasts were swollen and her nipples, perhaps it was the light, the areolas looked like they were a deeper shade of pink. They were darker. She leaned forward with her hands on the sink vanity and looked at her face in the mirror. The remnant of the hemorrhage in her eye was still visible.

A hot rush enveloped her. She felt weak, dizzy. Her skin crawled. Goose bumps ensued. She leaned against the wall for support. After a few deep breaths, she again looked at herself in the mirror. Her first view was straight on. She then turned herself sideways for a look. Everything was so thin. She was too thin. Her legs were stick like. No fat, just muscle and bone were evident. Her arms were too thin. Weight loss was evident in all areas of her body except for three: Her breasts seemed larger and her tummy, was it rounder? Her hips were less boylike and more curvaceous.

"Oh my God. No." She gasped as she stepped back to the toilet and sat down. Her mind was reeling while she was counting, back tracking. While in Section, Nikita was forced to use birth control. Many different methods, most of them experimental, had been used on her. The last few years she had been given a shot of Depo-provera every three months. This was an approved drug and for that, she was thankful. It prevented pregnancy and kept her from even considering having children.

Mandated birth control had been lifted when Michael left, escaping with her assistance. As the daughter of Mr. Jones, she no longer had to take orders or injections. Without Michael, there was no need and therefore, no risk. Her cycle had not returned to normal and she had learned to expect her period at usually the least convenient of times. Everything had happened so quickly after Michael had left. Nikita's life was turned upside down. Nikita lost track of time and her body. Her father, the kidnaping, the deals, the deaths and the unprotected love making she and Michael shared before he left, all had blended together.

She quickly walked into her bedroom dresser and pulled out her PDA. This was a personal one she kept and was not linked to the Center in any way. She used it for writing journals, love letters to Michael that someday he could read, and as a monthly calender. Pressing the calendar page, she figured, the best she could, the start date of her last period. It hadn't amounted to much and she had to think of what she was doing at Section to even be able to estimate a date. Again, the hot tingly adrenaline rush washed over her. She staggered for the bed to sit down. She and Michael had made love approximately two weeks from her start date.

The puzzle pieces fit. Nikita was not sick. In any other person's life, this would have been a moment of great joy, for Nikita, it was a moment of bittersweet sorrow. The one thing she had only dreamed of had happened.

Could it be? Again, Nikita felt very alone. This loneliness was quite different than her previous emotions. This desolation was mixed with panic and fright.

The strong persona of the Nikita that Center knew vanished. Her true, vulnerble persona was once again on the surface and once agian, she was without her Michael.

She sat on the bed and cried.

"Oh God." After a few minutes of self pity, she stood up.

"Trust no one," she said to herself as she looked in the dresser mirror. She brushed her wet hair and pulled it up into a knot like bun.

Dressed in black, she slipped on her black leather jacket that still held her car keys in the pocket. Quietly, she lurked out of the bedroom, down the hall and steps. She was careful to avoid her security team. No one expected her to want to leave the house.

Their focus had been intruders, not escapees. The members of her security detail were not familiar, first hand, with her stealth abilities. She headed down to the parking garage. Her Porsche waited. The night garage attendant was surprised to see her.

"Ma'am.? What are you doing down here? Where are you going this time of night?"

"Out." Her reply was cold as she sauntered up to him and placed her hand firmly on his throat. Her next words, though barely audible, were crystal clear, "Not a word of this to anyone. Understand?"

"Yes. You were never here. Please be careful," he choked out, gasping.

"Good," she purred.

A boss this beautiful and deadly was easy to comply with.

Nikita eased into the Porsche and fastened her seat belt. She turned the key and the car responded with a purr. She set off, unaware of the person in the shadows watching her.

Nikita headed out into the night. The car responded to her mood as together they sped through the countryside. She pressed the automatic window controls and a cool blast of air poured into the car. Had it been warmer, she would have dropped the top. The frigid air filled her lungs. Nikita took in deep breaths and did her best to clear her head.

Once close to the city, she rolled up the windows and adjusted her speed within legal limits. She quickly found her way to an all night grocery store. She had hoped they had a proper health and beauty department. On her way from the car to the store, she did her best to smooth the wisps of hair that come undone during her ride.

Once inside, she went directly to the area looking for the home pregnancy tests. What to buy? In all of her years, this was a first. She read the packages. Which one was the best? They all said they detected pregnancy even if one was just a few days late. In her estimation, she was at least two weeks late. Finally, giving up, she chose three different brands, just to be sure. She placed the tests in her small plastic shopping basket and headed toward the checkout.

The young check out girl shot a look at the bag boy and together they smirked. Nikita's mind was elsewhere and she was totally oblivious to their observation.

The total was rung up and Nikita handed her cash. The clerk handed Nikita her change and stated,

"Good luck. I hope you and your husband are-- successful." She tried to hide her grin.

"Oh, thanks." Nikita answered politely, suddenly aware of the ring on her left ring finger. It had belonged to her father. She had it sized down to fit her long, slender fingers. She had chosen to wear it as a reminder to herself and those around her, just who she was and where she came from. She had a father, albeit not the typical kind, but she did once have a father. For a girl that had grown up without one, this man's ring was a confirmation. Walking out the door, she transferred the ring to her right hand.

Her left hand was to remain naked. Once again, the family legacy would be passed on.

Another fatherless child. Besides, the ring no more looked like a wedding band and she was not married. That was a fantasy that would never come to fruition.

She rushed out into the night and back into her car.

Had they missed her?

"You weren't gone long." The attendant smiled.

"Just a quick errand," she gushed. Her beautiful face and charming disposition were not wasted on him.

"I hope it is the start of you getting out more," he replied as he was well aware of her new reclusive lifestyle.

"I doubt it. Remember, not a word." Her tone had gone from pure honey to dead cold. She then turned and headed up the stairwell.

Once in her room, she sat on the bed. Her secret purchase was in the inner pocket of her coat. Taking out the three tests, she opened the packages and carefully read the instructions. She could take all three tests now, or wait until the morning. Would it be more accurate to wait until morning? Exhausted by fatigue and emotion, she laid down and tabled the issue. She curled her body around her purchases and fell asleep. One last night of not knowing felt right. She would test in the morning.

Her dreams were strange. Incidents from her childhood disturbed her. She was little again. Once more lost and alone, hiding from her mother's abusive lovers. Her unconscious mind was feeding her nothing but feelings of helplessness and pure fear.

There was no one to protect her. It was not the restful night she had hoped for.

The middle of the night had arrived. Michelle quietly crept into Nikita's room to find her asleep in her street clothes. Nikita was curled into a fetal position with boxes and papers protectively tucked inside her ball. Nikita's sleep once again did not look peaceful. It was obvious that Nikita was in the middle of an intense dream or nightmare. The sorrowful look on her face and the sudden fits of movement bore into Michelle's soul.

Michelle walked into the bathroom and saw that there were no pregnancy tests on the counter or in the trash. She knew that Nikita had not found the nerve to take them yet.

She would have to come back in the morning, after Nikita went to her office, to find out the results. In her heart and mind, she knew what they were already. She could tell by the anguished state of Nikita's sleep that Nikita knew too. Michelle may not have had what it took to be an operative, but she was very gifted at being a concerned, inquisitive sister. It was not quite dawn. The house was still dark and quiet. Nikita awoke to find herself still dressed in her dark clothes from the night before. The feeling of dread once again surfaced. It had all came back to her as did the urge to pee and vomit. She jumped up and ran to the bathroom, making it just in time to vomit in the toilet. The violent contractions of her stomach shook her. She crossed her legs and held on, not wanting to wet herself.

She was so out of control with the strong waves of nausea washing over her.

"Damn it, Michael." She choked out between heaves. "This would be just like you to cause this intense a symptom." Michael never did anything halfway. She retched again into the toilet. Catching her breath, she hissed, "This would be just like our child to cause such a ruckus."

Whoa! Where did that thought come from? She couldn't logically be for certain she was pregnant (deep down, she knew). She stood up and grabbed a tissue to blow her nose and wipe the tears that always came when she vomited.

She quickly walked back to the bed and scooped up the boxes and returned to the bathroom. She had read what to do with the tests the night before. Frantically she ripped the Mylar covers and opened the tests. She hastily pulled down her pants and squatted on the toilet with her legs astride. Her stream of urine, hot and dark shot out from her. Grabbing the first test, she stuck it into her stream of urine. The gold liquid spattered again the white stick due to the force.

She laid the test down and repeated the procedure with the second and third tests. After all three had been soaked with her urine, she relaxed and finished.

She sat on the toilet with her head in her hands and waited. The instructions said that test could take as long as three minutes for results to show. It had been less than a minute. Never patient, Nikita stood up and looked down at the three plastic wands. The sight before her was absolute: a blue line, a pink line on the second test and a plus sign on the third. The tests confirmed it. Reality bolted down her spine.

Nikita looked at herself in the mirror with awe. She then placed her hand on her tummy and closed her eyes. There was a life within her. Michael's love was inside her. Their child. Tears streamed down her cheek. How could something feel so right and yet be so terrifying at the same time? She was lost and alone in her discovery. She was pregnant with Michael's baby. Vulnerability and fear rose inside her. Her next emotion was a feeling of fierce protection for this child. No one could know.

The operative within Nikita surfaced. The most important mission she had ever been part of was now starting. The innocent she had to protect was her and Michael's child. Her mind raced with what to do next. She had to appear to overcome the symptoms of the morning sickness (which lasted all day) she was fighting. She had to buy time and devise a plan. She estimated only four or five weeks in which to hide her pregnancy. Clothing could mask it to an extent for only so long. Mentally, she slipped herself into a role of a non pregnant, non nauseous Nikita. She then showered, dressed and headed off to her office. She was chipper. This was the role of a lifetime. Mind over matter.

"Good morning!" she exclaimed as she rushed into her office. "What's for breakfast? I am famished!"

Mr. Smith gave Michelle a puzzled look.

"Feeling better, dear?" He mused.

"Oh, yes. Much better. I am so glad to be rid of that flu or whatever it was. I hope no one else catches it."

Michelle smiled.

"I sure hope I don't. (pause) Well, it's off to do some organizing. Just beep if you need me." Michelle stated. Her eyes danced with all sorts of emotion.

"Sure." Nikita answered as she boldly dug into her oatmeal with berries. Meat had been banned from her breakfast menu, as well as her lunch and supper menus. "Mr. Smith, perhaps you could order some bacon for tomorrow. It really sounds good to me." Nikita lied while concentrating on swallowing her bite of oatmeal. The desire to vomit was so strong.

"Certainly, Miss Nikita." He said as started to exit the room.

"Oh, and starting tomorrow, I want my breakfast served in my bedroom if you don't mind. I think part of my problem is that I am not allowing time to digest it properly before I am sifting through the mess that is my job."

"Of course."

Nikita was fully aware of the security cameras. She then let out a little burp, helping to relieve some of the nausea, took a deep breath and started to work. Never could she let on how truly ill she felt. Too much was at stake and she did not have a plan as to how to make the whole situation work.

Her mind raced when she thought of possible outcomes. She wanted this child. What were her chances? She then took another breath and slipped into the Nikita persona that enabled her to do what her father had asked of her.

Michelle walked down the hall. She had to beat the housekeeper to Nikita's room. Quietly, she slipped into Nikita's room and shut the door. Michelle looked around the bedroom. The tests had to be in the bathroom. She went into the bathroom and did not see the tests on the counter. The wet towels still hung on the shower door. The housekeeper had not been in yet.

Reaching into the trash can, which had an abnormally large amount of tissue in it, she felt for the plastic tests. She found one, and pulled it out. It was carefully wrapped in toilet tissue. It had been hidden under layers of lipstick imprinted Kleenex. Nikita had planned on the evidence being burned with the other household refuse. The test was bold in its result: Positive. A "plus" sign, there was no doubt. Michelle slipped the positive test into her pocket and quickly left Nikita's room, undetected. She met the housekeeper on the stairs, greeted her and went to her own office. There was much to be done.

***********

Chapter 6

Michael woke up that morning drained emotionally and physically. His horrific nightmare had left him deeply shaken. The events in it far too real. They were the perfect mix between his distant past, his life in Section and the unknown future. It haunted him. Those he loved were present. The dream had started simple enough. He and Adam were there as was Nikita. He was taking Adam to enroll in a day school.

Children played happily in the school yard. A group of boys were busy with a game of soccer. Adam was immediately interested. Nikita was there waiting for them to arrive.

She waved at them as they made their way through the gate.

That was when he noticed the package. It was like the one that earned him his way into Section One. Nikita had noticed it too. She looked at him in disbelief and immediately did her best the clear the school yard. When the children did not head her commands, she panicked.

"Run! There's a bomb. Everyone run!" She screamed.

Michael stood frozen watching the horror take place. He stood there holding Adam's hand. Finally, his feet could move and he turned to run. Adam slipped from his grip and ran toward Nikita.

"Adam, run. Go with your father!" She cried as she pulled a young child with her, desperately trying to outrun the impending blast.

The explosion then rocked the school yard. The nails and debris from the bomb enveloped them. The force threw Nikita and little Adam several meters. The blast knocked Michael to the ground also. Staggering, he regained his stance and ran to Adam. He was dead. Shrapnel had pierced his neck. His broken body laid in a large pool of blood. Nikita was nearby. There was no pulse. Her neck broken. Her hand was still holding onto the small child, obviously dead too.

Michael screamed at the scene before him. Why couldn't he die too? The screaming woke him from the nightmare. He sat up in bed. His pulse was once again racing. He was soaked in sweat. Adam laid in the bed next to him. His eyes were large and full of wonder and fear.

"Daddy, what is wrong? You were screaming and it woke me up." His voice was small and frightened.

"Sorry, dear one. Daddy had a bad dream. It's okay. Go back to sleep." Michael's voice was soft and soothing.

Adam, turned on his side, facing Michael and closed his eyes. Michael pulled him close and stroked his hair.

"It's okay. It's okay. Shhhhh," he whispered over and over. Adam relaxed in his father's embrace. Michael's gentle, reassuring words had worked their magic, and he drifted, once again into a blissful slumber.

Michael laid there replaying the dream from a conscious state. What did the dream mean? Was Nikita is some sort of distress? She was the other half to his soul. He could feel her. Perhaps this was just his subconscious telling her goodbye. Rubbish. Michael knew that was not true. In every dream he had of her, she was trying to protect Adam.

He and Adam were the only link to her past. In many ways, they were her only family.

Michael thought of Michelle and wondered if she and Nikita would ever be able to grow close. Michelle was her sister, but they shared no history.

Nikita owned his soul. She loved Adam as if he was her own child. He missed her. How could he go on without her? He could feel her need for him. This arrangement was not working. He came to a conclusion that settled his distress. Once Adam was at school, he would start exploring options to be with her. Perhaps then his soul would become whole again.

He quickly turned his thoughts to ones of love, and not of fear. He slipped Adam from his arm and carefully rolled him onto his side. Michael closed his eyes and imagined her sleeping in his arms. He could feel her love and this calmed him. Would peaceful sleep finally became obtainable? He hoped his positive thoughts would give him the rest he needed.

Dawn arrived and he wearily began the task of getting Adam ready for school. The nightmare was still with him, lurking in his mind.

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

CHAPTER 7

Michelle started the process. Having assisted her father over the years, she had enough contacts. There was one person that she could trust with any task. That person was Jason. She had met him during his stint in Oversight and knew that he would do the search discreetly.

Michael's file had been purged from the system. He did not exist in Section One any longer. Only a handful even knew he was alive. Michael was provided for financially through a Center fronted corporation. His freedom from Section One was rare. However, Jason knew where to look for the trail. He found the proper codes and numbers so obscure, no one but those that knew Michael had survived would have a clue as to what they meant. Jason knew what he was looking for and within days, he was able to track Michael's spending, expenses and therefore the route traveled. Michelle was pleased to see how modest Michael had been with the money. For a man that was accustomed to the best of material goods, Michael was doing nothing to attract unwanted attention.

Key West. She smiled. A great location. An interesting place for a child. But warm and friendly. Just enough off beat people to make Michael less of an attraction. A boat would blend.

Michelle decided to send Michael a packet in the least covert way possible: UPS International Air. This was after all, not classified material. Often, the direct approach was the least noticed. "Hide in plain sight,"had been one piece of advice her father had given her.

Carefully, Michelle wrapped the "gift" and enclosed a simple card complete with instructions. She waited to address the package at the shipping office.

Heading down to the underground garage, she and the life changing package headed for the city. Alone, she sped off in her grey Mercedes. Making her way through the busy streets, the excitement made her feel so alive. Something positive was going to result. There had been so much sadness. This was the right thing to do. In her heart she knew it.

Once she arrived at the UPS office, she walked in and waited in line. It felt abnormal to her to be doing something an average citizen would take for granted. When it was her turn, she requested and then placed the gift in the International air freight envelope. Carefully, she addressed the label:

Mr. Michael Samuelle and Adam
Slip 47A
Key West Harbor
Key West, FL 33040
USA

She then filled out the proper customs forms, paid for the transaction with cash and left. Her exhilarated heart and soul added a spring to her step. The plan was now in motion. She prayed that it would work. Nikita and Michael deserved nothing but joy.

Her father would have approved. She felt this in her heart. This was the right thing to do. Sometimes a simple, straightforward approach was the best. To hell with being covert, it wasn't her style.