There was a silence in the briefing room as Michael walked into it. Michael sat down and Operations looked to Madeline and then to Michael. Operations set down the pointer and looked at Michael and cocked his head to the side.

"Where is Nikita?" Operations asks and Michael blinks his eyes and looks to the screen.

"Have you gathered new Intel?" Michael asks and Birkoff snaps his head towards Michael. Birkoff stands up and looks out towards the hallway.

"Michael, where is she?" Madeline asks and Michael stares at the screen and stands up.

"What is this building? This wasn't in my profile." Michael says and Birkoff turns back around and touches Michael by the shoulders.

"Is something wrong, Michael?" Birkoff asks and Michael looks at Birkoff shakes his head.

"She was eating." Michael says slowly and all of the operatives press their lips together and stare at Michael.

"Go fetch her, Michael." Operations says as he grabs the pointer and shuts down the screen. Michael turns and looks at Operations and Madeline.

"It is not necessary. She probably split pickle juice over her white shirt." Michael says and Madeline steps forward and stares at Michael.

"Humor us." Madeline says and Michael nods his head. He slowly stands up and looks at Operations.

"Sending me isn't going to fix things." Michael says as he walks out of the room. Operations looks around the room and sees Ayn as she is walking down the hallway with Trevor.

"Ayn! I don't want him in these parts!" Operations says as he rushes towards her.

"Could not be avoided. He wants to see Nikita. Since you won't arrange it…"Ayn says sharply and Operations slams his hand against the wall.

"I have enough concerns about Nikita right now, that I can not allow her more stress in her life. He is classified as stress." Operations says and turns away from Ayn.

"I don't understand you, Viktor. Why are you concerned?"Ayn challenges as she points to Walter's area , where his buddy O'Neil stood handing out weapons, and Trevor runs off.

"She is my daughter." Operations says back and Ayn turns her head to the side.

"Michael can take care of her. I saw you send him back to get her. He knows Nikita the best."Ayn says and Operations presses his lips together.

"I will not discuss Nikita with you." Operations says and Ayn nods her head and walks away. Madeline nods Birkoff out of the briefing room and walks to Operations.

"You are concerned." Madeline says and Operations turns his head to the side.

"Of course. She still is not showing. Elana is concerned also." Operations says and Madeline leans against the desk and folds her hands on her lap.

"If you read Elana's notes, she feels that until Nikita is showing that all missions involving her should be cancelled or rewritten to not involve Nikita." Madeline says tensely and Operations turns and looks at her.

"They haven't trained another couple yet. Hell, they haven't even picked a new couple yet. Plus, you know what is needed on this mission." Operations says and Madeline nods her head.

"Of course. We do need Michael's and Nikita's dancing abilities. But I think we are all wrong here." Madeline says and Operations turns his head and looks at Madeline.

"And what do you mean by that?" Operations asks and Madeline looks to the screen.

"She may be showing.. and we might not even be noticing." Madeline says as she starts to flip through some files. She was sure that Nikita was.. but it was hard to compare Nikita from day to day.. when she was in here constantly.

"I think we all would have noticed." Operations says and Madeline nods her head and looks to her hands.

"Well.. this tango mission should not be a problem if she is showing." Madeline says and she looks to the hallway and starts to wonder what was actually with Nikita.

*

Michael opened the door to the office, and the face that was hard, instantly turned soft. Nikita had curled back up on the couch and fell back to sleep. Michael looks behind him, to see if an operative had followed him, and closed the door.

He did not want to wake Nikita. She looked so peaceful, and the circles underneath her eyes had almost disappeared. They would soon reappear if Michael did not watch out and protect his family. Michael sat down by the side of the couch and stroked Nikita's hair softly.

There was the worry for the baby. He could not remember how many lectures in the past week that Elana had given Michael about Nikita and the baby. The only thing that Michael as successful on was getting Nikita to eat more. Yet, Michael was sure that most of what she ate was being burned away with the long missions.

"Michael… are you and Nikita in there?" Birkoff calls out as he knocks on the door. Michael turns towards the door and stares at it. He wills Birkoff away. Once there is no more noise, Michael turns back to Nikita. He was going to have to wake her. It did not seem right.

"Nikita…" Michael called out softly and Nikita only moved her head slowly. Michael smiled and brushes his hand against her cheek. He leaned in closer and touched her shoulder.

"Nikita." Michael called out, still softly and in a mild manner. He watched and waited. Nikita's feet moved together and Michael smiled. Nikita had started to rub her feet together more and more now. He didn't know why, but she just did.

"Nikita." Michael said before he leaned down and kissed her lips softly. He ran his hands down and held her hips. Nikita's blue eyes opened slowly and blinked at Michael. He smiled and kissed her again.

"Good morning, again, sleepyhead." Michael said and Nikita nodded and yawned while struggling to sit up. She stretched her arms with her second yawn.

"You are late for a briefing." Michael said and jumps up to her feet and ends up back down on the couch. Michael's arms are intertwined with her arms.

"Nikita, remember. Slowly." Michael said and Nikita smiled.

"Things aren't slow in our life, Michael." Nikita said and Michael smiled and nodded his head. Nikita stood up again, this time slowly. She patted at her hair and turned to Michael.

"We must get a new couple trained." Nikita said firmly and Michael nodded his head firmly.

"If we have time today, I will start looking for a couple." Michael said and Nikita stared at Michael harshly.

"You. What about me?" Nikita asked and Michael brushed his hand against her cheek.

"I was going to say, while you took a nap." Michael said and Nikita shook her head.

"Michael. I am pregnant! That's all." Nikita said and Michael smiled and looked at his wife. She wasn't going to stop till someone made her too.

"Do you remember this mission, Nikita?" Michael asked as he looked out the door to see if Birkoff was still hovering around. Michael opened the door and looked outside to the hallway.

"I don't." Nikita admitted and Michael turned and looked at Nikita. He didn't think that she had listened to him on the way into Section that day. Michael squeezed her hand and led her down the hallway.

"Follow my lead. It is not complicated." Michael said and Nikita smiled broadly.

"I think… did it involve dancing?" Nikita asked and Michael kissed her nose lightly as they turned the corner and came in view of the briefing room.

*

"How are you feeling, Nikita?" Operations asked as he pulled away from Madeline. Nikita smiled and pulled the chair out.

"I'm fine." Nikita said and Madeline turned her head and smiled at Operations. Nikita looked at Michael and he gave a slight shrug. Nikita looked back at Madeline and Operations.

"So, why are you late?" Operations asked and Nikita looked around and blushed.

"I had to change. I got pickle juice on my shirt." Nikita lied effectively and Operations looked at Michael and then to Nikita.

"I hope that was what truly occurred." Operations said and Nikita tilted her head and smiled at Operations.

"Now, why would I lie to you?" Nikita asked in a sarcastic voice that made Madeline smile broadly. It was good to hear that line coming from Nikita. Madeline had missed it.

"Nikita.. The mission." Michael said tensely and again Madeline said. It finally felt that everyone was getting back to the way it used to be.

"Michael, she is a big girl now." Operations said and Nikita started to rub her hands together as she smiled up at Operations.

"It doesn't matter, Michael. I will never be daddie's little girl. Maybe daddie's little mistake.. But not daddie's little girl." Nikita remarked and Madeline turned her head away, as she was about to smile too broadly and would surely be noticed.

"I never wanted you to be my little girl!" Operations argued and Nikita frowned at him.

"That's good. You didn't know me. And I am quite big." Nikita said sharply and there became a silence over the room. Michael pointed towards the screen and Madeline turned back around.

"About this mission…" Michael said and Operations slammed the pointer to the table.

"If you know so much, Michael. Why don't you run this briefing!" Operations hollered and Michael turned his head up and looked at Operations.

"I think we have gotten off track. Continue with the briefing." Madeline said as she picked up the pointer and handed it back to Operations. He looked at Madeline as Birkoff reentered the briefing room.

"Al Troat. He is our target." Operations said and Madeline looked at Nikita as she tried to stifle her yawn. Madeline looked to her notes and then back to Nikita. Nikita had lifted her head and listened intently. It was not normal for Nikita. Madeline instantly knew that Nikita had forgotten the profile.

"Of course, you will be expected to dance, and dance well." Operations said and Nikita turned her head to Michael.

"Is there a problem, Nikita?" Operations asked and Nikita shook her head.

"You won't have to practice much, Nikita. We will work with a dance you and Michael already have done before." Madeline pitched in and Nikita nodded her head in a thankful manner.

"The computer is in his private office. If you do well dancing, it will not be difficult gaining access. He celebrates in that office." Operations said and he clicked the screen down. "This mission must be complete. I want Al Troat dealt with and with no mistakes." Operations said and left quickly. Nikita turned her head and looked at Michael. He diverted his gray-green eyes away from Nikita and looked up at Madeline.

"Why don't you get into some workout clothes." Madeline said as she walked over and patted Nikita's shoulder.

Madeline turned and walked to her office. She had her own plan to implement.

*

Madeline stood in front of Michael and Nikita and blinked her eyes. Something was going on here, and she wasn't sure what. She started to get this bad feeling about the mission, and suddenly she wished that she could stop it.

"Have you selected the music?" Madeline asks and Nikita shakes her head as she looks at Michael.

"Let's do that Gloria Estefan one…" Michael says and Nikita shakes her head. Madeline goes over to the CD player and looks at the music that Michael was speaking about.

"I don't like it, Michael. It isn't us, now." Nikita says and Michael moves slightly away from Nikita.

"It doesn't matter if it is us now. We need just to dance to it." Michael says and Madeline wrinkles her nose. She didn't think that the song Michael was speaking about was working either.

"Michael, I have to agree with Nikita. You might like the music, but it wasn't clicking." Madeline says and Michael turns his head to the side and sighs.

"But.. If that is what you want…" Nikita says with a tired sigh. Madeline raises her head and sees Nikita. Michael protectively tucked Nikita underneath his arm.

"What about a different song, but by Gloria. You have had success with her before." Madeline says and Michael looks at Nikita for a response. He gets nothing.

"What are you thinking about?" Michael asks and Madeline smiles and nods her head.

"There are other songs we can use. I don't think some of these are good for you two." Madeline says and Nikita turns her head.

"I like "Real Woman". It is good." Nikita says and starts to move out of the room. Michael looks at Madeline and looks to the floor.

"Bathroom." Michael says and Madeline nods her head as she moves to the song that Nikita indicated. Michael started to tap his foot instantly.

"This is the song." Madeline says and Michael shakes his head.

"It's going to be a whole new dance." Michael complains and Madeline nods her head and smiles.

"But I think it will benefit you both. Nikita right now seems to be wanting a good spotlight.. And not a spotlight on her because of the baby." Madeline says and Michael looks to the side.

"She wouldn't have a spotlight on her if she was showing." Michael says and Madeline nods her head.

"But that isn't the issue now. This might help Nikita settle in." Madeline says and Michael presses his lips together.

"She would definitely be the center of the attraction." Michael says softly. Madeline smiles and inwardly laughs. She would definitely be the center if Madeline's plan goes correctly.

"Michael, she needs to feel special. Operations has been particularly difficult on her. Now… today.. It was like she was back. I have a feeling you spent some time… worshipping her lately." Madeline says and Michael lifts his head and smiles at Madeline.

"It was nice to have that quick and sharp Nikita back." Michael comments and Madeline raises an eyebrow. So Michael wasn't going to give her anymore information. Madeline turned her head to look at the bathroom door and then back at Michael.

"That might be her only defense against Operations. She needs to make her own decision, but she can't do that if she isn't feeling… like herself." Madeline says and Michael nods his head.

"We'll use this song, Madeline." Michael says and Madeline smiles and nods her head. She turns as Nikita starts to walk into the room.

"The song has been picked. Don't work long with it." Madeline tells Nikita and exits the room, leaving husband, wife, and baby together.

*

"Helen and Vern." Michael says out for Nikita to hear. He turns again to look at Nikita as she holds ice to her ankle.

"Nah." Nikita says and Michael drops his hands from the computer and looks at the couch. Nikita drops her head to look at the ankle. It was just sore. Nikita had pushed it too far, and now Michael was enforcing a rest period.

"You didn't even hear about them." Michael says and Nikita looks up with an innocent smile.

"I don't like the name Vern." Nikita says and Michael laughs.

"It's not like we will be naming our son Vern!" Michael says and Nikita looks at Michael and smiles.

"I didn't like the name Helen." Nikita says and she lifts her head and smiles again. "And we are having a girl." Nikita says and Michael's body relaxes as he hears Nikita's laughter.

"Millicent and Logan." Michael says and Nikita starts to laugh.

"Millie and Logan." Nikita says and Michael turns and stares at Nikita.

"She doesn't like to be called Millicent. She.. got quite violent with the last one who did call her that. Not that I didn't mind." Nikita says with a sly smile and Michael presses his lips together.

"But Operations always calls her Millicent." Michael says and Nikita smiles and claps her hands together.

"That has some possibilities." Nikita says and Michael shakes his head.

"We want a new couple because they are right for each other. Not because one of the members of the couple likes to punch your father." Michael says and Nikita again smiles broadly.

"But it is a bonus!" Nikita laughs as she flicks her hands towards Michael, spraying him with the ice cold water.

"I'll put them on the possible list." Michael says softly and Nikita nods her head.

"Peta and Roy." Michael says and Nikita wrinkles her nose.

"They are together?" Nikita asks and Michael nods his head.

"God, they must be a dramatic pair!" Nikita laughs out and Michael can't stop from laughing. He had believed the same thing.

"Ok… next…. Jonnie and Keith." Michael says as the phone on Nikita's desk rings. Michael stands up and picks it up.

"Hello?" Michael asks and he listens, rolls his eyes and hands the phone over to Nikita.

"Hey… we were just going over names… What about Peta? No? You don't like it? What about Vern?" Nikita asks and Michael shakes his head. His playful Nikita had reemerged. It was refreshing.

"Now? I was just going to ice Michael down." Nikita complains and she rolls her own eyes and hangs up the phone. She is about to slide her shoe onto the sore foot, but instead pulls off the other shoe and stands up.

"Fitting time. I wonder how many lectures I will get now." Nikita says and Michael walks over and hugs Nikita tightly.

"Nikita, it doesn't matter." Michael says and Nikita smile as she slides the cube of ice down the back of his shirt. He shakes his head and takes the ice out of his shirt and hugs Nikita. He quickly slides it down her shirt. Nikita start to tickle him in return. Soon, both of them end in a huge hug.

"I better go. She wasn't in a good mood." Nikita says and heads towards the door and turns back to Michael.

"Look up Jonnie and Keith. I might like them." Nikita says and hurries into the hallway. Michael smiles and sets to work. At least they had eliminated some of the field.

*

Nikita walked into Madeline's office and stared at the assortment of dresses hanging up. Nikita blinks at them. They are all long. Nikita places her hands on her hips and stares at Madeline.

"Why are they all long?" Nikita asks and Madeline turns and smiles.

"Well… your condition." Madeline said and Nikita laughed.

"We are going to be dancing to \lquote Real Woman'and I am going to be wearing a dress like a nun?" Nikita asks sharply and Madeline smiles.

"It is nice to hear you like that." Madeline says and Nikita narrows her eyes and stares at Madeline.

"Like what?" Nikita asks sharply and Madeline lets her smile expand.

"Sassy. Sharp. Sarcastic. Yourself." Madeline says as she hands Nikita a dress. Nikita rolls her eyes in classic Nikita style and walks to the back dressing room. Nikita is heard throwing her dress to the chair.

"Nikita!" Madeline said in a warning tone and all noise ceased in the room until there was laughter.

"There is no way that I am wearing this dress!" Nikita laughed as she stepped out of the room. Madeline walked over and looked at the tag.

"You should be wearing this dress, Nikita." Madeline said and Nikita shook her head.

"Look how big it is." Nikita complains. Madeline leans back on her desk and studies Nikita.

"It wouldn't be big." Madeline said and Nikita rolled her eyes.

"If I was showing properly. I KNOW." Nikita says tensely. She walks over to the rack of dresses that Nikita has worn before and grabs a dress that she had liked before.

"Nikita…" Madeline called out and Nikita slammed the dressing room door closed.

"I know that this one will fit, Madeline." Nikita says sharply and Madeline taps her fingers lightly on the desk.

Nikita steps out and Madeline smiles and starts to shake her head.

"What is wrong? It fits fine!" Nikita cries out and Madeline turns Nikita to the side and points to the mirror.

"You can't wear that." Madeline says as she points to Nikita's little stomach and Nikita smiles broadly.

"Oh…" Nikita mutters out as she stares at the image in shock.

"Nikita… we'll try another dress." Madeline said and Nikita's head turned quickly.

"No. I am wearing this one." Nikita said sharply and Madeline shook her head.

"It doesn't fit correctly." Madeline says and Nikita presses her lips tightly together.

"I AM SHOWING!" Nikita cries out and Madeline slowly nods her head.

"Yes. You are. Congratulations." Madeline says and turns towards the room to search for another dress.

"I just have to find the right maternity size. Once you start to really show, I can go buy some outfits in the correct size.. But I can't yet." Madeline says and Nikita looks to the door. She looks down at her bare feet and smiles.

"But I want to wear this!" Nikita cries out as she starts to silently inch her way to the door.

"This one is 7 months.. I don't think you will ever get that big…. And this one… ugh.. This isn't maternity." Madeline says as she throws the two dresses away from the where she was.

"Now this is a very pretty red one. And look.. It has a short…." Madeline says as she turns and looks, and happily finds the room empty. Madeline smiles and cleans up the mess before continuing her planned mission.

*

Michael was looking at the files of the possible couples. He turned his head as a shadow filled the door. He smiled as he saw Nikita's smile.

"How do you like my dress?" Nikita asks slowly. Michael nods his head as Nikita turns. He turns back to the screen.

"I was thinking that….." Michael starts out, and then he turns his head to Nikita. She has shifted to the side and smiled at Michael.

"You…" Michael musters out and Nikita rubs at her stomach.

"You are showing!" Michael cries out with tears springing out of his eyes. Nikita nods her head and moves closer to Michael.

With Nikita standing up, Michael wrapped his hands around Nikita's waist and his face was level with the little pouch that both mother and father wanted to see.

"It's so.. Beautiful." Michael says softly as he looks up at Nikita. She runs her hands through his hair as she looks down with her own tears.

"Michael.. Nikita… The Observation Desk." Operations voice says sharply from the intercom. Michael kisses the little pouch and walk out of the room, hand in hand.

*

Nikita walks in and wraps her arm around Michael.

"Madeline has told me that she disapproves of your dress." Operations says and Nikita smiles and looks at Michael.

"Has she told you why?" Nikita asks and Operations shakes his head and Nikita looks at Michael and turns to her side.

Nikita looks up at Michael as Operations'mouth starts to drop. He moves around from the desk and Nikita turns back to the original position.

"I am wearing this dress." Nikita says firmly and Operations only nods his head.

"I agree. It is suitable." Operations says and Nikita grabs Michael's hands.

"We have to get a picture and send it to Walter!" Nikita cries out and pulls Michael out of the office before Operations could say anything else.

Nikita runs down the steps and Michael smiles. It was great seeing Nikita so happy. Nikita taps on Birkoff's shoulder and turns to the side. Birkoff jumps to his feet and hugs Nikita.

"You don't know how worried everyone was!" Birkoff says and Nikita nods her head and grabs Michael closer to her.

"Birkoff.. We need a digital picture sent to Walter. He would want to see this." Nikita says and Birkoff nods his head.

"He would kill me if I didn't get a picture." Birkoff agrees and Nikita smiles broadly.

"Where do you need us to stand?" Nikita asks and Birkoff points to the gray wall. Nikita turns to the side and leans against Michael's shoulder.

"Michael… can you smile for this?" Nikita asks before she looks up and finds Michael smiling.

"I have been smiling. You look… I can't even pick the words, Nikita." Michael says emotionally and Nikita turns her head up and starts to cry. Michael picks his hands up and wipes the tears off of her face. Nikita turns and smiles towards Birkoff.

"Got it! I will send it!" Birkoff says and Michael and Nikita walk off together.

Birkoff smiles as he sends the entire video to Walter. He would be balling his eyes out himself.

*

(Lyrics from Gloria Estefan's Real Woman from the Gloria CD)

Nikita smiles at Michael as the music starts. He had not been able to wipe his smile off of his face from the time Nikita entered the office with the dress on. She looked in a way that Michael still could not describe. He wondered if he would fell this way for the next five months.

WHAT YOU NEED IS A REAL, REAL WOMAN TONIGHT

Michael had not believed the music was right for them, but it was. Nikita was in the ultimate form of being a real woman. All of the movements that Michael could try, he would rub lightly against the pouch. He loved it. It made the baby more real. More definite.

A REAL WOMAN TONIGHT

Nikita doesn't hold anything back. It is like the music is possessing her. She uses long motions to move and rub her body against Michael's. Michael's touch, especially those that rub her stomach, ignite her with a passion. She wishes she could have Michael right on this dance floor.

SOMEONE THAT DOES YOU RIGHT…

Michael smiles as Nikita's leg is thrown around his tight legs. He holds her as her shoe teases the back of his knee. He pulls Nikita up and kisses her hungrily as they swirl around in a circle.

KEEPS YOU AWAKE ALL NIGHT NOW HONEY….

The crowd might not even notice the stomach, but Michael does. The crowd is making catcalls, but both Michael and Nikita are use to that. It no longer bothers either of them. Nikita wraps her hand around Michael's neck and kicks her legs up in a split fashion. Michael pulls her back a few steps where they kiss again.

A REAL WOMAN TONIGHT, HONEY….

Michael thinks that in less than a month, Nikita won't be able to do that dance move. Nikita slowly shimmies down his leg and then stands up. She turns her back at Michael and playfully turns her head back to smile at him.

REAL WOMAN TONIGHT…

Nikita turns to the side and sees the target, Al Troat. He smiles as Nikita is rolls forward and Michael wraps his hands possessively around Nikita and pulls her towards him.

ONE THAT HOLDS YOU TIGHT…

Nikita now throws her legs around Michael's waist. Michael leans his head into her chest and kisses it. Carefully, Michael holds onto Nikita and swings her upper body down and around. Nikita comes back into the position and licks her tongue from his chin to his forehead. She emits a loud growl that causes some more audience participation in shouts, moans, and groans.

DON'T YOU PUT UP A FIGHT NOW HONEY….

Slowly Nikita's feet are lowered to the ground. This is not finished before Michael feels Nikita's little pouch that their child lives in, rub against his stomach. He can't believe he didn't notice before that day. It was very pronounced.

A REAL WOMAN TONIGHT…

Nikita takes her mouth and attacks Michael's throat and starts to unbutton his shirt. Michael sucks in more air, as Nikita has fallen away from the planned dance. Michael turns Nikita around with a quick spin and presses her hard against his body and captures her mouth for another long and wet kiss.

YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT'S GOOD FOR YOU…

Michael almost could not pull his mouth away from Nikita's at that moment. It felt as if they were in their own private bedroom. Michael snaps back to the mission and starts to push at Nikita's dress straps.

AND ALL THE GIRLS YOU HAD, JUST HAD NO CLUE…

Nikita turns away from Michael and then preciously and sexily presents her behind to him. Michael rubs it with his hands. He holds his hands against the heat and then drops to his knees and hungrily bites at the material. He could have done more, but stands up and twirls Nikita back to his mouth for another kiss.

YOU NEED A WOMAN BY YOUR SIDE…

Nikita's right leg curls around Michael's. They can no longer move. They can grind.

WHO CAN TURN ON BOTH YOUR BODY AND MIND…

"Nikita…" Michael breathes out as he takes his hands from around his waist and moves them between their hot bodies.

SOMEONE WHO GIVES YOU WHAT YOU REALLY NEED…

Michael hears the music and stares at Nikita. She smiles and Michael wants to hold her forever. She was giving him all that he could ever ask for, and more than that.

The contest ended quickly. Only one couple performed after them. Michael and Nikita could not separate their bodies.

*

Nikita walked into the private office and looked around. She had expected something more than what she was seeing. Michael's hand was on her waist and led her to the couch.

"You are a beautiful couple. Are you expecting?"Al Troat asks and Nikita smiles and nods her head.

"Yes." Nikita says and Al Troat smiles at Nikita.

"Well.. If you were my daughter.. I would keep you at home. You are too pretty to be out there."Al says and Nikita tenses up.

"You aren't my father." Nikita says. Michael holds Nikita's hands and squeezes it. Nikita looks at Michael. Michael pulls his hand away. The statement Nikita had made was correct. Operations had sent her out here.

"Well.. You are a sweet thing.. And I hope your husband here is taking care of you."Al says as he sits down at his desk. Nikita brushes her hair back and activates the comm unit.

"Nikita…. The computer… we need to get in it." Birkoff says and Nikita tilts her head and rubs Michael's neck softly and his comm unit is activated.

"Actually.. He stands in front of me almost all the time.. Protecting me." Nikita says and Al laughs loudly.

"Not on that dance floor!"Al comments and Nikita smiles.

"That's when I have control." Nikita says and Al smiles again and looks at the couple.

"Take him out." Birkoff orders and Nikita looks to Michael. Nikita stands up and starts towards the desk.

"It's a shame you think of me like a daughter." Nikita says and Michael stands up and stares at Nikita. She had taken the only opening that had so far, but Michael didn't like it.

"What is she doing, Michael?" Birkoff cries out and Michael laughs.

"Nikita… you are never satisfied are you?" Michael asks with a laugh and Nikita winks at Michael and moves behind Al.

"Never." Nikita says as she rolls her fingers down Al's neck. Michael nods his head and Nikita quickly snaps his neck. Nikita looks down at the ink blotter and looks at Michael.

"We have less than five minutes." Nikita says as she sees the scheduled meeting. Michael moves to the computer as he draws the gun out from way deep in his pants. Nikita moves to the side and opens the safe and empties the contents.

"Birkoff.. Our exit?" Nikita asks as Michael starts to download the information. They were going to be cutting it close.

"There is a vent on the floor. Pull up the rug on the right corner, near the window." Birkoff says and Nikita starts to work. Michael pulls the disk out and runs to where Nikita was.

"Birkoff!" Nikita exclaims and Michael and her start to squeeze into the vent. They barely are in, when they replace the carpet and begin to travel on the slight downward grade.

"Michael!" Nikita moans out as their bodies are pushed closer together than they were in the dance. Michael turns to them. They had no time to go down one at a time.

"What is it, Nikita?" Michael asks, as there was something in her moan that didn't feel right to his ears.

"Your knee." Nikita says painfully and Michael looks down and sees what is going on.

"Damn!" Michael says as he sees his knee firmly against her stomach.

"They are in the room above. Stay still." Birkoff says and Nikita turns her head from Michael.

"Birkoff.. We need to move." Michael whispers.

"NOT NOW!" Birkoff hollers into the units.

"Birkoff.. Please." Nikita moans out and Michael and Nikita both look up as they hear and feel the footsteps.

Silent mode." Birkoff hisses and Nikita keeps her head away from Michael. *

"Birkoff.. why haven't Michael and Nikita reached the van yet?" Madeline asks as she moves down the hallway quickly. She walks to him and he looks up at Madeline.

"Al Troat had a meeting. They had to stop." Birkoff says and he looks to Madeline has he hears a sob from Nikita again.

"And there is a problem." Birkoff says and Madeline pulls the closes chair over and stares at him.

"What do you mean a problem?" Madeline asks and Birkoff swallows.

It's really tight in the vent." Birkoff says and Madeline picks up another comm unit and hears Nikita's small whimpers.

"Why?" Madeline asks and Birkoff drops his head.

"Michael's knee is near her stomach. Actually, I think it is pushing against it." Birkoff says and Madeline stands up and motions Operations down from the Observation Deck.

"Patch me in, Birkoff." Madeline says and Birkoff shakes his head.

We had to go silent." Birkoff says and Madeline turns and stares at him. Birkoff pushes a button and Madeline turns to the side.

"Michael, Nikita, how are you?" Madeline asks.

"We need to get out of here." Michael whispers and Nikita starts to cry.

"Michael… we need out.. I need to stop this pain… now.. Michael… what if… I need out of here." Nikita says as she starts to panic. Michael tries to stop her struggling.

"We need a diversion to get Michael and Nikita out." Madeline informs Operations as he walks to Madeline and stares at her.

"Why?" Operations asks and Madeline nods to Birkoff.

"Nikita.. panicking won't help…" Michael says softly.

"I need out.. Michael.. your knee… it is hurting me… I need out.. too dark…" Nikita cries out and Operations turns to the side and looks to the wall.

"Have them blow up some cars.. and find out where that vent comes out and have the van right there. Notify Elana." Operations says and quickly walks away.

"Michael.. Nikita.. move.. Now.. quickly." Madeline says as Birkoff sends the other orders.

"Michael… Nikita… turn to the right… that will take you to the outside wall… the van will meet you there." Birkoff says and Nikita starts to crawl frantically.

"Nikita… slow down!" Michael calls out as her legs get ahead of Michael and she starts to slide. There are explosions and Michael looks at Nikita slips further ahead.

"Nikita… the van is held up… don't…" Birkoff says and then he hears the loud metal clang.

"Go out of the vent!" Birkoff says.

"DAMNIT!" Nikita hollers and Michael hurries to reach Nikita. Michael grabbed for her arm, as she dangled about ten feet up from the ground.

"WHERE IS THAT VAN!" Michael hollers and Birkoff looks up to Madeline. Something had to be done. *

"Van get to exit point near vent!" Birkoff says.

"There are innocents."The driver responds and Madeline slams her hand against the console and stares at the screen.

"If you plan on living when you come back, you will go, NOW!" Madeline says firmly. She quickly turns and switches the channels.

"Nikita… I am going to pull you back in." Michael says and Nikita starts to shake her head.

"No… I don't want back in there…. Too tight…" Nikita says and Michael stares at her.

"Nikita!" Michael says as he starts to pull, but now Nikita starts to squirm. He stops and looks down at her. There are tears that he can see.

"Where is that van!" Michael cries out, as there are more explosions.

"It is in route." Madeline informs and Michael drops his head, as he sees nothing approaching them.

"It should be here. Nikita is hanging out of the vent and won't let me pull her back in." Michael says loudly as more explosions go off.

"I won't let you kill my baby!" Nikita cries out and Michael closes his eyes.

"Just keep holding her.. We are working on the van." Madeline says tensely as she moves back to Birkoff and stares at him.

"I don't care if you have a flat tire…. Get that van there, now!" Birkoff screams as he stands up and starts to pace.

"Birkoff…"The van driver says and Birkoff jumps back into his seat.

"If you don't, I will allow Michael to have fun with you before Madeline gets you. Nikita is hanging outside of the building because you couldn't drive fast enough to get to the building. Do you want Michael to work you over?" Birkoff threatens and Madeline raises an eyebrow. She was very proud of Birkoff.

"Going."The van driver says sharply.

"Michael… look for the van. He should be arriving." Madeline says and Michael lifts his head from his gaze down at Nikita.

"It is here." Michael says as it squeals close enough to the building that Michael could gently lower Nikita to the rooftop. Nikita slide off the back and then Michael jumped out. He slides down the back and found that Nikita had not entered the van.

"We have to go there." Nikita said and Michael stared at her.

"Van is down." Madeline replies. They had the report. Three tires were gone now. There was no way that the van was going to get them out. Nikita jumped out of her dance shoes and took a hold of the gun the driver gave her.

Michael moves in front of Nikita. She had no body armor on, and neither did Michael. He wasn't about to jeopardize Nikita. Michael took Nikita free hand and made the dash out. He was relieved when no one noticed them. They slipped into the parking lot of the Denny's that adjoined the club and hid their guns.

"Are you hungry, Nikita?" Michael asked and she nodded her head slightly.

"As long as you eat my pickle, we can get something here." Michael says as Nikita slides her shoes back on and rubs against Nikita. He reaches to her and with the sleeve of his black jacket, rubs at her face to rid it of the running make-up.

"Michael…. We will send a van in an hour." Madeline says as she moves away from the console. She immediately walks up to the Observation Deck and looks at Operations.

"She panicked." Madeline says and Operations nods his head.

"That will have to be dealt with." Operations says and turns away. Madeline leaves and Operations turns back. He didn't want Madeline to deal with Nikita on this one. He really thought her react was natural and that the mistake did not fall on Nikita for panicking, but fell on the Intel that the vent was larger than it was.

*

Michael pulled the blanket out from the storage closet of the van and wrapped it around Nikita. He rubbed her arms and looked at her. She had been so quiet. Gone was the Nikita that was excited about the little pouch that everyone now sees and notices, but one that worried Michael.

"You know that Madeline is going to speak to you about what happened." Michael said softly. He had not even mentioned Section during their quick meal at Denny's. Michael had a salad, which had no pickles, and Nikita had a Patty Melt, with extra pickles. Michael tried to speak about the baby, but Nikita did not really respond to him.

"I know." Nikita says shortly and turns her head to the side.

"Just remember. It wasn't your fault. It was faulty Intel." Michael says and Nikita turns her head towards him.

"That won't be why she will be talking to me, Michael. You know. I know. I am sure all of Section knows it." Nikita says and keeps her head away from Michael.

"Would you rather speak to someone else?" Michael asks but again, Nikita does not respond. Michael sits down by her side and rubs her arms softly.

"Ayn? Maybe even Walter?" Michael asks and Nikita shakes her head softly.

"No. It will be Madeline. You know it has to be Madeline." Nikita says as she keeps her face staring at the back wall.

Michael dropped his head. She was right. Most times, these kinds of panicking activities always fell into Madeline's hands. Michael was sure though that if Nikita asked for someone else, that Madeline would respect that. Nikita was one of the few that could ask for special requests.

"Would you care to explain to me what happened?" Michael asked and Nikita sharply stood up and walked to the other side of the van. Michael leaned back at where he was sitting for a moment before crossing the van and sitting next to Nikita again.

"I am sorry. I didn't expect you too." Michael says as he rubs her shoulders softly. He feels the van going down and stops rubbing Nikita's shoulders.

"We are back." Michael says and Nikita nods her head and walks towards the door of the van.

"Do you want to do this in Madeline's office, or would you rather be in our office?" Michael asks and Nikita looks at Michael blankly.

"I don't think I have a choice." Nikita says and Michael smiles softly and leans into Nikita's ear.

"Whose office has the closest bathroom?" Michael asks and Nikita nods her head without a smile as the door opens and waiting on the other side is Madeline.

"Nikita. We need to speak." Madeline says as Michael helps Nikita down out of the van.

"Can't she get changed?" Michael asks and Madeline stares at Michael as they begin to walk.

"It needs to be done, now." Madeline says and she looks at Nikita, who has been staying quiet.

"My office." Madeline says as she takes Nikita's hand and tries to direct her. Nikita shakes her head and looks at Madeline.

"My office. Closest bathroom." Nikita says and she turns and starts off in a dash towards her office. Michael looks at Madeline and she stops.

"Michael… I believe that Operations has been going through your list of finalist for the next couple. I believe he wants to go over them." Madeline says and Michael nods his head and turns and heads for the Observation Deck. *

"Nikita, I am very concerned about what happened." Madeline says as Nikita steps out of the bathroom with a wet towel that she had used to wipe her face down with.

"Oh. So you want Elana to check me over?" Nikita asks as she moves towards the door. Madeline steps in-between Nikita and the door and looks at Nikita.

"You know what I am concerned about. You panicked." Madeline says and Nikita drops her towel down on the desk and puts her hands on her hip.

"I was worried for the baby, Madeline. His knee was in my stomach." Nikita says calmly.

"You panicked. We cannot have operatives panicking." Madeline says firmly and Nikita stares at her.

"It was a one time thing, Madeline." Nikita says as she turns away and Madeline drops her head.

"Nikita, I know that right now your life seems to be centered around the baby, but don't let that baby cloud your judgement. You did not think when you took off for the exit." Madeline says and Nikita turns and looks at Madeline.

"You never felt the way I did." Nikita says and Madeline looks at Nikita.

"I know it was more of a mental panic than from the physical pain." Madeline says and Nikita looks at Madeline harshly.

"And how do you know that? Have you been stuck in a vent with a knee pressed against your baby?" Nikita challenges and Nikita shakes her head as Madeline shakes her head no.

"Have you even been stuck in a vent with a knee stuck to your stomach?" Nikita asks and Madeline parts her lips.

"That is not the issue…." Madeline starts to say until Nikita drops Madeline down to the floor and presses her knee roughly against Madeline's own stomach.

"Do you feel it? Do you? Do you feel the pressure in your back? Do you feel the need to pee? Do you feel the pressure of my knee spreading up to your chest and starting to spread down your legs? Do you feel the pain, Madeline?" Nikita screams as her body pushes against Madeline's. Madeline nods her head and closes her eyes. Nikita pulls back and sits on the floor with tears rolling down her face.

Madeline slowly stands up and readjusts her clothing. She turns and looks at Nikita and then rubs her neck softly. There was still some pain. Maybe she should have Elana check Nikita over.

"Nikita… I do not argue that there was pain. But on this, you didn't think. You reacted with your heart, and it could have gotten you and your child killed." Madeline says sharply and Nikita stares at Madeline.

"Sometimes a mother has to do what is in her heart." Nikita challenges and Madeline leans down and takes Nikita's chin in her hand and pushes tightly.

"I am going to forget that this happened, Nikita. Use your brain first. Not your heart. If a mother only did what was in her heart, I would never let Anna out of my hands. Use your brain." Madeline says and storms out of the office; not thinking much was achieved. Nikita nods her head and walks to her computer and sits down.

She was losing her composure quickly. Her mind was jumping around. She needed Michael but did not know where he was sent.

"Birkoff…" Nikita says as she feels her body tremble. Now she was realizing what she had done to Madeline and the ramifications.

"Yes, Nikita." Birkoff asks with concern.

"Find me.. Michael…" Nikita starts to say as she starts to cry and tremble.

"And then come to my office… please…" Nikita says as she can barely sit still.

"Right away." Birkoff says as he looks up to the Observation Deck. He was going to be in Nikita's and Michael's office quickly. *

Birkoff ran up the stairs and firmly knocked on the Observation Deck's door and waited as Michael opened it. Birkoff stepped in and looked at Michael.

"Nikita.. ah.. wants you." Birkoff says and Michael looks back to Birkoff sternly.

"Tell her I will be there when I am done with this meeting." Michael says and Birkoff turns his head to the side and looks out of the window.

"Michael…. She needs you." Birkoff says and Operations steps forward. He had just flipped down his computer screen where Madeline was ranting about Nikita's behavior in the room.

"Birkoff. Later." Operations says and Birkoff shakes his head as the two men and dash off. Operations looks at the window and watches Birkoff sprint down the hallway. He wondered if he should have allowed Michael to go. Operations was sure if Michael was really needed that Birkoff will call or scream.

*

Birkoff opened the door and found Nikita trembling in her chair with tears running down her face. She had not changed out of the dress, which in all of the mess had gotten dirty and very uncomfortable.

"Nikita…" Birkoff says as he crosses to her desk and hugs her tightly. Nikita grips onto Birkoff like a life preserver pulling her to safety. She holds and holds and closes her eyes.

"Nikita… what has happened?" Birkoff asks as he tightens his grasp on Nikita. He feels his own body tremble with fear. This should be something Michael should be doing.

"Just hold me, Birkoff… where is Michael?" Nikita asks without opening her eyes.

"He is meeting with Operations." Birkoff says softly, knowing that the word Operations was sometimes something that made Nikita worse.

"About the new couple." Nikita says as she brings her legs up on the chair and Birkoff rubs her back lightly.

"Tell me, Nikita." Birkoff says, hoping to calm her down.

"I kneed Madeline. I'll probably be canceled." Nikita cries out and Birkoff reaches for the phone and hits the intercom.

*

"Michael, I had Madeline ranting at me that Nikita became violent." Operations says as Michael looks out of the window. Birkoff had not returned to his console.

"She is protective of the baby." Michael replies and Operations nods his head.

"I tried to argue that. Madeline seems to be upset about it." Operations says and Michael turns and looks at Operations.

"Well, I can't blame Madeline. Remember when Madeline was pregnant, I think Nikita did not civilly talk to Madeline for months." Michael says and the intercom buzzes.

"Michael! GET YOUR BUTT DOWN HERE!" Birkoff says loudly and Michael looks to Operations and starts out quickly. That was not the normal Birkoff speaking. Michael moves quickly, not noticing Operations walking behind him.

Michael flew down the stairs and across the hallway. He opened the door and saw Nikita curled up and holding onto Birkoff.

"Nikita… I am here…shh…" Michael says as Birkoff steps back. Michael wraps his hands around Nikita and kisses her head.

"I want to go home." Nikita mutters out and Michael lifts his head. He looks to the hallway where Operations stands.

"Is she going to be punished for her actions?" Michael asks and Operations shakes his head no.

"I won't do anything, but tell her to go home for the night." Operations says and moves away. He was certain that Michael is the best healer for the situation.

"We'll go home, Nikita… Once you calm down… shhh.. It's all right. I am here…" Michael whispers and Birkoff swallows. Michael looks at him with a soft look on his face.

"Thank you, Birkoff. You can go." Michael says and Birkoff nods his head and starts to move.

"I'm not far if you need me." Birkoff says and Michael nods his head and holds Nikita. He couldn't imagine what else Section was going to put them through for the next five months.

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