Disclaimer: I do not own them, just borrowing them or previous events for a while to have some fun.

I have huge apologies to make, the last year or so has been completely crazy. We've been house hunting and I've had job issues. On top of that I've had writer's block and been unable to finish the story. I hope by posting this it might give me some incentive to finish the story. I'm torn between continuing the evening, tackling the morning after or a time jump when I sort that out I should be able to move forward.

In the meantime as usual huge thanks to Lily Moonlight for the beta and sorry for the lack of contact.

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Chapter 41 – A night out – part 2

Eventually pulling himself from the moment of reflection as he watched the boat on the water, Flack spoke again, asking, "What will you do? If you move back?"

Karla shrugged. "I don't know, I'll probably live with Dad for a while until I find myself a place in the city. I need to sort everything out in DC first."

"Do you want to come back?" He wasn't keen on the idea of her leaving, not when he was starting to think that maybe there was the possibility of something between them.

"It's going to take a few months before I'll be able to, I need to sell my house, find a job, all of that, as well as wrap up some unfinished business with the Bureau." She was talking about ending her life in DC; however there was one thing he needed to know.

"Unfinished business including Morgan?" Flack replied, taking her hand as they continued to lean on the railings.

There was a sigh from Karla before she answered him. "Derek and I were thrown together hard and fast, for nearly 18 months we only had each other to rely on. He was under pressure from the guys we were after, I was struggling to play the dutiful wife and hold down a normal job, and feed the information he gathered back to our team. More than once our cover was almost blown. When things didn't work out after we moved to DC we just tried to go our own ways and deal with what we had left. He's played the field, while I've become something of a hermit." Flack sensed her looking at him, but he continued to stare at the river. "We'll always be good friends, we just can't live together anymore. But to answer your question, yes, there are things we need to talk about."

"You think you'll ever stop being a hermit and get together with someone again?" He caressed the back of her hand with his thumb, he hoped he sounded neutral, but the fact was that there was something about her that made him feel at peace and made him want more than the snatched conversations they'd shared in the last month.

"I guess I still need to find that out," she answered after a brief pause. Flack stood up from the railing and drew her around to face him, their eyes drawn to each other. "I've enjoyed tonight, but I should get going,' she continued. 'I've got an early flight and I still need to pack," she mumbled. Sensing her sudden unease he wrapped his arm around her waist and resting her hand on his shoulder, he grazed his fingers down her face.

"Karla, tell me you don't want this and I'll stop," he rasped, still caressing her cheek, his eyes fixed on hers as he waited for her answer, the sparkle in her eyes faded as they seemed to darken; he hoped that he wasn't making a huge fool of himself. She seemed hesitant but she didn't move, and after what seemed like an eternity she spoke.

"I can't tell you that and not be lying, but are you sure this is what you want? I don't want to start something that will hurt more later, and maybe I'm protecting myself as much as you when you realise I'm not Jess."

He let his eyes wander over the hesitant look on her face, "I don't want you to be," he whispered, slowly trailing his thumb across her cheek again. He could feel his heart pounding, maybe now wasn't the right time, but if he didn't try now she'd be gone and he would have no idea if he really was able to move on. "I'm not good with words, I'm more of an action kind of guy… But it's you I'm here with… I can't promise forever, but I can promise that right now you're…' He stopped, aware that she was watching him intently. In the last few minutes a refreshing breeze had picked up along the river and a strand of hair blew across her face. Teasing the offending strand back behind her ear, his hand settled on the back of her neck and supported her as he lowered his head to hers. "You're the only thing on my mind," he murmured against her lips before softly grazing them with his own. "I've wanted to do this since I arrested you." He frowned when she pulled away, but only far enough to look him in the eye.

"Technically you didn't arrest me," she whispered, her eyes darting over his face, he licked his lips leaning closer again, his body pressing hers against the railing, he felt her hand grip his shoulder.

"Don't argue," he murmured nipping her lower lip before tightening his arm around her waist, holding her against him and as he gently teased her into a deeper kiss he felt her other hand settle on his hip. The moan from her brought his attention back to her, his hand caressed her neck sliding under the collar of her blouse. He smiled into her lips, brushing them delicately as he eased back.

He waited for her eyes to flutter open, his heart thundering in his chest, suddenly hoping he hadn't just made a mistake. The smile on her face helped ease his anxiety. "Did I ever tell you I like action?" Her eyes seemed to taunt him as she breathed the words out.

What was the point in trying to talk when he admitted he was an action guy and she'd told him she liked it? He tipped his head forward seizing her lips again, whispering her name against them.

Oblivious to the bolt of lightning which lit up the sky around them, the heavy thunderclap that followed startled them.

"Maybe we need to find somewhere out of the rain," she answered tilting her head back as several heavy drops fell, some landing on her face. Flack gently wiped them away.

"Cab?" he asked tentatively, and she nodded. Aware that he still had her wrapped in his arms and pressed against the railings he stepped back, more heavy drops descending as another bolt of lightning flared, apparently across the river over Brooklyn, the trace of the bead lightning lingering for several seconds against the darkening sky. Taking her hand he began to lead her through the cobbled paths of the pedestrian walkway towards the main street.

They had barely taken a few steps when the rain picked up, the drops getting heavier and more frequent, sending pedestrians running for cover. Flack and Karla picked up their pace, avoiding the scurrying masses seeking shelter in nearby bars and shops. By the time they reached the relative shelter of the FDR overpass the rain was falling like a sheet and they were both pretty drenched. Pausing to take stock of the situation Flack frowned as he eyed the traffic on the street. The cabs that normally thronged to the area had all but vanished, the few still plying their trade were full, a typical situation in the city; everyone wanted a cab when it rained. He turned to Karla who was also scouring the street and wrapped an arm around her shoulder.

"Not looking good," he muttered, pressing a kiss to her temple. "And not exactly what I had in mind." He stared at the street again, but turning his attention back to her as he felt her move, he found himself looking into her eyes a coy smile across her lips.

"So what did you have in mind detective?" The smile and her voice seemed to send a warm feeling all through him, he grinned at her and shook his head and fixed her with a look. "Right, a man of action," she muttered patting his chest, shivering as the cooler breeze toyed with their wet clothes. Flack pulled her closer, attempting to keep her warm.

"Let's get out of here before you freeze completely." She agreed and they turned their attention to the street again, just in time to spot a free cab approaching. Fortunately for them the driver spotted them in the throng of people and stopped.

Once inside, Flack gave the driver their destination as he felt Karla entwine her fingers in his and lean against his shoulder.

"Your place?" she queried.

"It's closer and I'm sure it'll be easier for me to find you something to wear than the other way around."

"No surveillance either." She grinned. "Although Adam shouldn't be watching now."

...

As the curtain came down on the final act of the play and the lights went up Mac curled his hand tighter round Stella's, not wanting to lose her in the movement of people now rising from their seats and making for the exit.

They sat for a moment waiting for the crowd to clear a little before they finally rose and followed them. Other than confirming it was a good play they didn't speak again until they were in the foyer of the theatre, content to share the silence and the comfortable connection of their entwined hands.

A buzz of voices met them as they emerged into the foyer and it soon became clear what had caught everyone's attention. Outside the rain was pouring down, leaving people running for cover. Theatre staff had rounded up some umbrellas and were helping to flag down elusive cabs and protect patrons in the gap between the awning and the kerb. Some took the chance and ran from the theatre towards nearby subway stations, getting soaked the minute they stepped outside.

"Looks like the weather's broken," muttered Mac unnecessarily.

"No kidding, Mac, looks like we're gonna get wet," Stella responded flippantly much to his amusement as a smile curled his lips.

"I'm game if you are."

He waited as Stella glanced down at her feet in delicate strappy, high-heeled sandals, then she looked up and scrunched her nose, her curls moving as she shook her head slightly. "Normally I'd say yes, but I'm afraid my heels won't take it, we can wait for a cab."

"It'll take a while with all these people, think you can make it down the block a little way?" he asked with a slight frown, pondering her situation as another idea occurred to him.

"With the emphasis on little," she answered.

"Alright." He loosened their hands and taking her arm linked it in his and they headed purposefully towards the door.

Stepping outside they paused briefly to assess the crowds running along the sidewalk before hurrying about half a block until Mac led Stella down a small side alley. He sensed her moment of hesitation until she saw the glowing neon sign about half way down. Fortunately most people didn't know about this place and only went there on purpose, so the rushing crowds mostly passed it by.

As they ducked in the door and were met with the warm atmosphere and quiet hum of voices they were also able to make out the soft jazz sounds coming from the band on the stage.

"How do you know about this place?" Stella asked as they shook raindrops off themselves.

"Remember when I used to play at Cozy's? For a while when they were renovating we moved over here, it's got its own niche clientele."

"I can see that." She smiled, taking in the place.

Mac nodded at one of the doormen. "Evening, Jimmy."

They shook hands. "Mac, long time no see."

"Yeah it's been a while, how's business?"

"Can't complain. Who's the lucky lady?" He smiled at Stella.

"Stella, Jimmy," Mac introduced them. "Got a table free to let us wait out the rain?"

"Sure, the boss is off tonight so you can use his table,' Jimmy replied affably. 'I guess the rain has interrupted your evening?"

"Not exactly, just diverted it a little, fortunately we were just down the street," Stella answered.

"Good to see you. Mac, go get your lady a drink," Jimmy instructed good naturedly and Mac smiled before leading Stella across to an empty table next to the stage.

Once seated and their drinks ordered they sat for a moment just listening to the music before Mac stuck out his hand in Stella's direction. "Ms Bonasera, would you do me the honour of having this dance?"

He felt his stomach flutter at the easy smile she gave him as she reached for his hand. "Why, Mr Taylor, I thought you'd never ask."

As they moved onto the tiny dance floor and he wrapped an arm around her waist he let every thought in his head go as he focused on the woman in his arms and how right it felt: a feeling that he hadn't had in a long time.

...

Flack opened the door to his apartment and with a hand on her back guided Karla inside. Neither spoke as he closed the door, put on the lights or closed the curtains. Karla shivered as she stood dripping on the wood floors. Having closed the curtains Flack approached her and guided her towards the bedroom, where he pulled warm and fluffy towels out of a closet and handed them to her.

"Thank you."

"Bathroom's through there." He indicated the door on the opposite wall. "I think Sam left some of her stuff in there the last time she stayed, help yourself."

Karla felt her stomach flutter. "Your sister?" she questioned, trying to dredge up from her memories what he may have told her.

"Yeah, I'll tell you all about her some other time," he mumbled his hand cupping her face then brushing his lips across hers. "You should get out of those wet clothes, I'll find you something to wear."

"You know, that argument applies to you too. You're just as wet as I am," she answered with a smile.

He grinned at her. "You know you can be very distracting?"

She looked him up and down. "Goes both ways, Don."

"So what do you say we do something about it? Hot chocolate marshmallows and a movie?" He took the towel from her unfolded it and wrapped it around her shoulders.

"What movie do you have in mind?" she asked taking the edge of the towel and drying her face.

"You can choose," he said and turned towards the door as he stepped out of the room she stepped forwards.

"Don, I can't think of a better way of spending my last night in the city. Thank you." Hearing his name he stopped and glanced over his shoulder, then turned back and stopped in front of her.

"Ta tu go halainn," he murmured as he grazed his lips across hers.

Karla looked up and held his gaze. "You know I still have no idea what that means, are you ever going to tell me?"

"Maybe one day."

She stepped back and partially turned away, not wanting to see the look on his face when she asked the question that had popped into her head suddenly. "Did you ever say it to Jess?"

He reached out and taking her elbow drew her back to him, curling one arm around her waist. "Jess was different, it didn't suit her in the same way, she spoke fluent French and used it more, I guess I didn't feel up to her standards." Holding her gaze he traced his finger over her jaw and she shivered; she wasn't sure if it was because she was cold or the feelings he was stirring in her, but it seemed to have an effect on him and he curled his lip slightly, "we should get out of these wet clothes, I don't want to send you back to DC with pneumonia."

She picked up on the emotion in his voice and nodded, uncertain what to say next. Instead she leaned forwards until he lowered his head and grazed his lips over hers, slowly deepening the kiss, pulling away a moment later he left the room and closed the door.

Karla stood for a moment staring at the closed door wondering if getting involved now was the right thing. Her head told her it wasn't, but since meeting him, she had been drawn to the handsome if somewhat brooding detective and her heart was definitely in control at that moment. Finally she turned and headed into the bathroom. When she emerged there was a small pile of clothes and a note:

Not sure what would work best, take your pick.

I'm out of chocolate and marshmallows, gone to the store.

Back soon, make yourself at home.

Don

Karla smiled as she read the note, then laid it on the bed and pondered what to wear from the selection he had left. The easy scrawl of the note and the sentiment it contained, and that he'd given her the run of his home helped to ease the butterflies she had over where his attention was focused.

...

Stella opened the door to her apartment and Mac stepped inside, performing his customary sweep of the place as she entered behind him a smile gracing her lips. She never tired of him taking the time to ensure that everything was in its rightful place before he left her after a night out.

"All seems fine Stella, make sure you lock the door after me," Mac stated walking back to the front door.

"Mac you know for once you don't have to check my place and leave," she told him merrily then after a brief pause she placed a hand on his chest, feeling the dampness clinging to his shirt where they had been caught in the rain between the cab and her apartment building. "Stay, you won't get another cab and by then you'll be soaked. I have a nice bottle of red wine that would make the perfect night cap and my bed is more than big enough for both of us."

She felt her stomach clench when he didn't immediately answer her. After what seemed an eternity he smiled and cupped her cheek with his hand before pressing his lips to hers. The chaste kiss was brief, but seemed to come with a promise of a whole lot more. "I thought you'd never ask." He grinned cheekily.

As they settled in to end the evening in comfortable companionship she mulled over the way he had broken down her barriers and that he had opened up himself to the possibility of a new relationship after Claire and that she got to see a side of him that was so very rare to see in the lab.

Mac Taylor was an enigma, maybe even a sort of Jekyll and Hyde character - he was quirky and mischievous when it suited him and she was the lucky one that got to share these moments with him.

...

When he opened the door to his apartment he saw Karla flicking through the DVD rack as she knelt on the floor. He saw her turn her head to look up, but he headed straight for the kitchen and set down two plastic carrier bags and a cardboard tray with two takeout drinks cups on the counter. He resisted the urge to look at his house guest for fear he would get distracted and his surprise would go to waste. As he busied himself in opening the bags and depositing the contents on the counter he was aware that she was now standing next to him.

"What is all this? I thought you'd only gone for chocolate and marshmallows," she commented.

"Change of plan, I got a surprise."

"Okay, but first you need to get into some dry clothes before you freeze to death and I don't want that on my conscience." She rested her hand on one of his stopping him from moving to the second bag and this time he looked at her.

It took all of his will power to keep his eyes on hers and not let them take in the rest of her body. He didn't want to make this evening all about sex, and with her leaving he wanted to wait until she returned to take that step in their new relationship. Tonight was all about getting to know her and opening up to her about his past. Apart from the night in the safe house when he had confessed to her about killing the guy who murdered Jess they had not spoken and her question earlier had made him think that if he was to have another relationship he needed to be honest about things. He wanted to have a friendly relaxed atmosphere to do that.

"Don?" Her use of his name drew his attention back to her and he saw a hint of concern in her eyes.

"You're right. I won't be long," he answered huskily, resisting his devious inner thoughts as he turned towards his room.

I hope this found a few readers out there who want to see what happens at the end. I promise to try and sort out what's going on.

Posted: 1 July 15