Well, here it is – the final chapter. Thank you to those of you who have favorited, followed or reviewed this story and to those of you who have stuck with it and are coming back for this last chapter. I apologize for the long delay in getting this final part posted - it was the only chapter I hadn't already finished when I initially published the story and it took me longer than I thought to finalize the ending. I really wanted to get this posted before the new season starts though so I buckled down and here it is…

LuckyStarPham requested more Chin and I was happy to comply so you'll find more of him in this chapter – I hope I've done him justice and that you'll enjoy!

Conquering Nightmares

Chapter 5

As it worked out, once they arrived back on Oahu Steve was only able to keep Catherine in bed for the better part of three days before their lives descended upon them again.

They had left Kabul on the first flight going in the right direction and had a couple of stops before they finally landed in Honolulu. It was almost midnight when they ultimately got back to the house and, since both wanted to wash the trip off them they got reacquainted again in the shower before falling into bed. They had been exhausted and slept peacefully until around 10:15 the next morning.

Steve opened his eyes slowly and stretched then rolled to drape himself over the woman sharing his bed. He nuzzled the blue star tattoo at the nape of her neck with his lips and she groaned half heartedly, although she didn't mind his ministrations in the least.

He took a break from outlining her ear with his tongue to chuckle. "You can't still be tired. I can't remember the last time I slept that long."

"Me either. But I still feel like I could sleep all day," she said as she turned onto her back to face him more fully, "I can't remember the last time I slept straight through." She moaned with pleasure as Steve returned to worshipping her ear. "Hmmm… I missed having you in my bed."

He paused, halfway to her lips, and leaned back on one elbow, suddenly serious. "I wish I'd been there with you."

She rolled over to her right side to look him in the eye. "No," she told him firmly. "Don't do that. Your place was here." She grabbed his right hand with her left. "I needed to do it on my own. I had to."

He released her hand to tenderly stroke the side of her face. His voice was rough and deep when he replied, "I know you did."

She saw the truth of his statement in his eyes and also something else that filled her with sadness and regret.

Steve saw the change come over her and shifted into over-protective mode in a heartbeat. "Cath?" His eyes searched hers. "Hey, what is it?"

She looked away. "It's my fault we missed so much time."

"Hey." He gently cupped her face and made sure she was looking at him. "Don't do that. Yes, we missed time. But it's on me, too and I'm planning to spend the rest of my life making up for it."

She smiled, wondering when he had gotten so good at knowing exactly what she needed to hear. "Hmmm… Me too." She shifted closer and ran her hand down his bare chest. "I wonder if there's something I could do right now to start making amends."

"What did you have in mind, Rollins?"

She shifted again so she was propped up on her right arm, hovering over him. "Maybe a little bit of this…" She kissed his forehead as her hand stroked his chest. "Or maybe a little bit of this." She kissed his nose. "Or maybe…" She finally captured his lips as her hand made its way south under the covers.

He growled and flipped them both over so he was hovering over her. He was just leaning in for a kiss when he paused and gazed at her for a moment.

She brought her hand to his cheek and whispered, "Steve?"

"I love you." A shiver ran through him and his face split into the happy smile that was only for her. "I don't think I'll ever get tired of telling you that."

They next time they stirred it was 2:00 in the afternoon. Although they had been cuddled together when they fell asleep, at some point during their nap Steve had rolled over onto his back. He stretched his arms above his head before rolling onto his left side to watch as Catherine blinked her eyes sleepily.

He grinned. "Morning. Again."

She laughed softly as she stretched sleepily. "Morning." She rolled onto her right side so she was facing him and lifted her hand to his face, running her fingertips teasingly down his jaw. "I like this," she said, referring to his beard, "are you planning to keep it?"

He stroked his chin. "Probably not." Then he paused, grinning, and grabbed her hand. "Unless… do you want me to?"

She brought their joined hands to her mouth and placed a gentle kiss on his knuckles. "Hmmm… I don't know." She leaned back a bit to focus on his face. He tilted his head questioningly and raised his eyebrows in response as he watched her study his face. "I think it brings out your eyes, and those amazing lashes you have," she said.

He smiled at the compliment and teased, "Are you jealous, Rollins?" He rolled toward her and released her hand so he could brush some stray hair out of her face before cradling her cheek and caressing it with his thumb.

She looked up at him and said, "Have you had it long?"

He thought for a moment. "Not long – couple weeks maybe, part of my cover. Needed to match the passport photo." Before they had left Afghanistan he had made her aware of his alias and she'd seen the false passport he was traveling under.

She tilted her head, pondering, before she ran the backs of her fingers over the beard. "Well," she said, "as much as I appreciate Alex Jones for travelling to Afghanistan to come get me I think I'd rather have Steve McGarrett back."

He leaned forward and captured her lips in a sweet kiss before he pulled back slightly and smiled at her. "He's all yours. You want to help me shave it?"

"Now? Hmmm… What time is it?"

He rolled to see the clock on the bedside table. "Fourteen hundred."

She stretched languidly and ran her hand down his bare chest. "Maybe later? I have other things I'd rather help you do right now."

"Later it is," he agreed before he rolled her underneath him in one quick move and her squeak of surprise turned into a moan of pleasure as he claimed her mouth with hers.

The third time they awoke on that first day they decided to actually leave the bed for a while to get something to eat. Steve grabbed a pair of running shorts out of a drawer and slipped them on while he admired the view of Catherine's naked profile as she stood at the closet looking for one of his shirts. As she grabbed one of his blue button downs he slid up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, nuzzling her neck.

The shirt in one hand, she crossed her arms over his and tilted her head to give him better access at the same time she told him laughingly, "If you keep that up we're never going to eat."

"Hmmm…." His voice was muffled on her skin as he worked his way down toward her shoulder, "I think we'll survive a little while longer."

She turned in the circle of his arms, slid her arms into the shirtsleeves and put her hands on his chest. "Steve," she admonished gently, "we've been in bed all day."

"I know." He used his index finger to gently brush a lock of stray hair out of her face as he searched her eyes. "But it's not enough. I'll never be able to get enough of you."

She was visibly touched by the sincerity of his words and gathered him in her arms. He pulled her close and they held each other tightly until Steve moaned. "This is not helping get my mind off what else I'd like to be doing right now."

She smiled and pulled back enough to button two buttons on the shirt. "There. That better?"

He shook his head like a petulant child. "No. Because I know what's underneath."

She smiled up at him. "Come on, Commander. Food will give me energy for round four."

His expression turned more serious and he asked, "You're really hungry?"

She nodded. "Starved."

"All right," he said before he dropped a quick kiss on her lips, "let's get you fed." He took her hand and led the way out of the room.

When they arrived in the kitchen he released her hand and went to inspect the fridge. "We have… eggs… cheese. You want an omelet?"

She thought for a moment. "How about scrambled eggs?"

He nodded and said, "Scrambled eggs it is." He removed a carton of eggs, cream and some grated cheese from the refrigerator, turned and set everything on the island before leaning back down and inspecting the shelves again. "No pineapple, but there's some…cantaloupe?" He turned his head and glanced at her over the appliance door.

"Perfect," she agreed and pushed off the counter to retrieve a bowl from a cabinet. While she broke eggs into the bowl and beat them with a fork Steve secured a shallow pan and made no effort to hide the fact that he was brushing up against as much of her as he could as he slid behind her to put it on the stove.

He sliced the fruit and toasted some bread as she cooked the eggs and in no time they were devouring their meal. Catherine sat on the counter as Steve leaned against it, holding the plate, and alternated feeding himself and feeding her.

As she finished chewing and swallowed a bite she was focused on his bare chest; she reached out a hand and gently touched one of the scars that hadn't been there before their fateful trip to Afghanistan. Steve paused and gently set the plate down as she brushed feather light touches over various marks on his torso then continued to his arms and finally his forehead. As she started to lower her hand he grasped it and pulled it in to cradle it against his chest.

When she turned her head to meet his gaze he saw the concern on her face and wanted to address it immediately. "Hey," he told her, "I'm fine."

"I know," she replied halfheartedly and he tilted his head in silent encouragement for her to continue. "I know," she repeated with a sigh, "really I do. It's just… It's hard…" she trailed off.

When she didn't continue he prompted her gently. "What is?"

She took a deep, cleansing breath and exhaled it slowly. "What happened to you… In Afghanistan and here with Wo Fat - I can only imagine-"

"Hey," he interrupted. "Don't. It's over – all of it. It's in the past now and I don't want to focus on that. What matters to me now is the future. Our future."

She nodded and offered him a small smile. He responded by squeezing the hand he still held against his chest and stepping closer to her before he continued. "I'm not going to lie and say I didn't miss you and wish you were there-" When she glanced away he touched her face gently to bring her attention back to him. "-but it wasn't the first time, for either of us. We've both been there before, right?" He waited for her to grudgingly acknowledge his point. "But I know it was the last. Because I'm going to be your husband, and you're going to be my wife and…" he paused and grinned, lightening the mood, "well, it's part of the vows right? The whole sickness and health thing?"

She returned his smile with an honest one of her own and nodded. "Yeah, it is." Her face fell slightly and she bit her lower lip for a moment. "How have you been handling it, really?" When he shrugged in response and looked down her tone became firmer, more insistent. "Steve?" Seeing he was struggling she relaxed and continued more gently, her tone soft, caring. "Hey, Sailor. I'm not going to leave again – no matter what you tell me. I'm not going anywhere. Okay?"

He looked up, searching her face; seeing the truth behind her words he squeezed her hand again and breathed out, "Okay".

"Besides, I already know the answer because I know you. But I love you and even though it may hurt me to hear you admit it I think we should talk about it. You've been struggling with your PTSD again, haven't you? Are you still having nightmares?"

Steve sighed. "Yes, all that. But nothing since you came home. I sleep better with you beside me, Cath, I always have."

"I know. Me too. "

He released her hand and stepped between her legs to wrap both arms around her and hold her against him. She returned the gesture and they held each other for a minute before her hands and lips began to wander. Steve pulled away just enough to capture her mouth in a searing kiss that left them both breathless.

No words were necessary because they were already on exactly the same page as he lowered his arms to lift her off the counter and she wrapped her legs around his waist.

"Bed?" he breathed against her lips.

"Too… far…" she replied.

He broke the kiss long enough to eye the living room skeptically. "Couch's too sticky," he mumbled in between nips at her lower lip and headed for the stairs.

"Can't… " Catherine moaned against his neck as she licked and sucked at the sensitive skin. "Need you…"

He backed her up against the front door so he could concentrate on the sensations she was evoking throughout his entire body before he hungrily attacked her mouth again. She broke the kiss, looked at him with hooded eyes and said, "Bed or floor. Now."

That was all the encouragement he needed as he moved her away from the door and shifted so he was carrying her bridal style up the stairs and into the bedroom. He dropped her onto the soft mattress and pushed his shorts down over his hips as she knelt on the bed and worked with fumbling fingers to undo the buttons on the shirt she was wearing. He watched her anxiously for a moment and then shook his head.

"Uh uh," he said, just before he grasped the bottom of the shirt and simply pulled it up and over her head. He eased her backwards and climbed up to cover her body with his.

"That was very… Ooh."

"I aim to please," he said between hungry kisses and they let their actions do the rest of the talking.

The second morning Catherine opened her eyes to find Steve clean-shaven and standing over her with a tray. She blinked a few times and stretched before smiling up at him. "Good morning, sailor."

Steve's smile nearly split his face in two. "I missed that," he told her.

"What? Me telling you 'good morning'?"

"Well, yes. And the way you say it." He grinned.

She sat up, pulling the sheet to cover her naked torso. "Whatcha got there?" she asked.

"This? This is breakfast in bed." He set across her lap a tray filled with yogurt with granola, fresh fruit, French toast, an omelet and orange juice. There were fresh flowers in a small vase on the far right corner as well as silverware wrapped in a napkin on the left side.

"Wow. That's a lot of food." She looked at him and asked, "Is this all for me?"

"Yes," he replied, then added when she looked doubtful, "I'll help, but you're too thin."

"I see. So you're trying to fatten me up?" she asked with a smile on her face.

He snagged a piece of pineapple off the tray and popped it in his mouth, smiling around it. "Yup."

Together they finished all the food Steve had brought up. Catherine sat against the headboard with the tray across her lap and he lay alongside her on the bed eating whatever bites she offered. He was happy when she ate almost everything since that had been his intention anyway.

As she speared the last piece of mango he sat up and lifted the tray, then pivoted so he could set it down on the floor next to the bed.

"Ohhh," she groaned, "I am so full. But it was so good."

"Are you too full to…" he waggled his eyebrows at her, "work some of it off?" he asked, while he tickled his fingers lightly up and down her arm.

"Why Commander, whatever did you have in mind?"

When he answered her question by leaning over and kissing first her chin, then her bottom lip, then finally her mouth she simply slid back down the bed and welcomed him into her arms.

Steve woke a couple of hours later, both of them having fallen asleep after burning off some of the calories of their breakfast. He rolled over to his left and watched Catherine sleep for a few minutes until she stirred and opened her eyes, taking a moment to focus on his face.

"Good morning, Commander… again."

He smiled and planted a quick kiss on her lips. "You need to get up. We have to be downtown in…" he rolled over so he could see the clock on the bedside table, "… an hour."

"Downtown? Where are we going?"

He just smiled at her. "You'll see."

Their meeting downtown turned out to be with a jeweler John McGarrett had bought many pieces from years before. Steve had made an appointment with the proprietor, now an elderly gentleman, to see about getting an engagement ring for Catherine. He had considered surprising her with one but decided he wanted her to help him choose.

Mr. Kamaka had been thrilled to take Steve's call earlier that morning and overjoyed to hear that the younger man was engaged to be married. He remembered meeting him as a young man when Steve had accompanied his father to the shop once or twice. He had been saddened a few years later to hear of the death of John's wife and then that Steve and his sister had left the island. He had crossed paths with John a few times in the subsequent years and always asked after the other man's children. John, of course always the proud father, was more than willing to relate Steve's many accomplishments: Graduating from the Naval Academy near the top of his class, successfully completing BUD/S and becoming a SEAL, being given command of his own team, each promotion…

The jeweler had been happy to hear John's stories about how the boy who had suffered so much sadness as a youth had managed to overcome the obstacles he had been faced with and was doing so well in his career. But it had never escaped his attention that the younger McGarrett had not returned to the island of his birth and he did not think John had seen his son in person for many years.

Mr. Kamaka was a family man himself; still happily married and able to enjoy the many grandchildren they had been blessed with. He could not imagine his life without his family and felt sorrow for his friend John who had lost his family after too little time together.

He had mourned the death of the elder McGarrett who he felt had been taken from the world much too violently and much too soon but had been happy to hear Steve had returned to the island and stayed to run the new Five-0 task force. Since that time he had somewhat followed the SEAL's career through the news, was aware the team was known for being good at what they did and Steve was a large part of that. He had always hoped the now grown man had found a new sort of family and would someday settle down, maybe get married and perhaps experience the incomparable joys of fatherhood. So when Steve called he had been thrilled to hear of the young man's engagement and felt incredibly honored at having been selected to facilitate such an important purchase as the rings. He was also quite excited to meet the couple in person and spent some time preparing to ensure everything would be perfect for their appointment.

Mr. Kamaka watched as Steve and Catherine entered the shop promptly at 12:30. He had worked with hundreds of couples over the years and felt he could tell when a relationship had what it took to go the distance. He noticed their body language, saw that Steve held the door open for her to enter first and kept a hand at the small of her back as he followed her into the store and the glances they exchanged did not escape his attention, either. He smiled as they approached the counter; yes, these two were a handsome couple and very much in love. He emerged from behind a display and extended his hand to Steve. "Commander, so nice to see you again. It has been a long time."

Steve shook his hand warmly. "Mr. Kamaka, I'd like to introduce you to Catherine Rollins."

"It is a pleasure to meet you Miss Rollins. And, may I say, you are even more beautiful in person."

Catherine blushed as she shook his offered hand. "Thank you."

Steve agreed. "She is, isn't she?" He wrapped an arm around her waist, leaned in and kissed her temple.

Catherine flashed him a grateful smile before turning her attention to the shopkeeper. "You have a lovely store, Mr. Kamaka."

"Thank you. I've been in business here for over fifty years."

"Has it been that long?" Steve said. He thought back for a moment, "I guess it's been what, close to twenty-five years since the last time I came in with my dad."

"Yes, I believe he was selecting something for your sister's tenth birthday… Earrings, was it?"

Steve was impressed. "I think that's right."

"How is she?"

"She's well, living in California with her young daughter. Thank you for asking." Steve answered. "And your family?" He remembered Mr. Kamaka had a wife and several children.

The shopkeeper smiled fondly. "Also well. I have nine grandchildren," he said proudly. He gestured toward the case behind him. "Although it has been a pleasure catching up, I certainly don't want to waste any more of your time. Based on our discussion earlier I have pulled together several options for you and your lovely fiancée to choose from. Shall we?"

Steve nodded. "This has certainly not been a waste of time," he said and smiled like a kid in a candy store, "but I – we," he glanced at Catherine who smiled and nodded, "would love to see what you have for us."

They proceeded toward the front of the glass case as the elderly gentleman stepped behind it and pulled out a black velvet display holding several rings.

Catherine took one look and shook her head. "These are beautiful," she said to Mr. Kamaka and then directed her attention her fiancé standing next to her, "but too much. Steve, I can't-"

"Of course you can, Cath." He leaned over to look more closely at the variety of rings before selecting one and holding it between his thumb and forefinger. "I've given this some thought and it means a lot to me. Mr. Kamaka and I discussed it this morning," he said to Catherine but glanced up at the shopkeeper who nodded his agreement, "and I thought about coming to pick it out myself, but I would rather spend the time with you than away from you." He smiled softly for a moment until his face fell slightly. "Unless you'd rather I surprised you…" he said, suddenly a little unsure.

"No," she said quickly, shaking her head, "I love the idea of doing this together. It's just… are you sure?"

He nodded and a grin broke out on his face. "Besides," he said teasingly, "might as well prove to Danny that I'm not as cheap as he thinks I am." His grin softened into an affectionate smile as he gazed at her, his eyes full of love. He lifted the ring in his hand as if presenting it to her and his voice was quiet when he spoke. "I don't mind spending money on the important things."

They continued to lose themselves in each other's eyes until Mr. Kamaka cleared his throat softly and they turned their eyes to him sheepishly. "So, Miss Rollins-"

"Catherine, please," she told him

"-Catherine, do you see one you like?"

Steve replaced the ring he had been holding and moved back slightly, looking over her right shoulder as she turned her eyes on the selection. Mr. Kamaka had taken great care to ensure that there were different options to choose from, although he had mostly stayed with solitaries based on Steve's information that Catherine tended toward simple and classic in her jewelry. There were a variety of diamond shapes and band styles represented, each one sparkling and quite beautiful.

She inspected the options for a few moments before focusing on the one Steve had selected previously, a round solitaire with a yellow gold band. She picked it up and looked at Mr. Kamaka. "May I?" she asked.

He smiled in response. "Of course, please."

Steve covered her hand with his and shook his head. "No." She glanced at him quickly, confused, before he took the ring gently from her and turned to face her. He grasped her left hand. "Let me." He slid the ring onto her finger and admired it for a moment before lifting his gaze to her face. "What do you think?"

She held her hand up and gazed down at it, smiling. Her happiness shone in her eyes for a moment when she looked back up at Steve, but her smile faded slightly and she bit her lower lip. "It's beautiful, but I'm not sure…"

He could tell she loved the ring and it warmed his heart. But he knew he needed to reassure her so he took her hand, seeming to inspect the ring more closely for a moment. "Well, I am," he said, "It's perfect."

He turned his attention to the shopkeeper, who had been observing quietly. "We'll take this one."

Mr. Kamaka was pleased that they had selected his favorite of the bunch. "Wonderful!" he said and clapped his hands together. "It doesn't appear to need sizing. Would you like to wait while I inspect and clean it? It will only be a few minutes and then you can wear it out of the store."

Steve looked back to Catherine and smiled at her though he directed his words at Mr. Kamaka. "I don't know," he said teasingly, "she doesn't seem too excited." He grinned at her. "Should we wait?" He raised his eyebrows and shook his head slowly side to side, then began nodding it up and down. Catherine giggled at his antics and squeezed his hand affectionately. Steve he looked back at the elderly gentleman. "We'll wait," he affirmed with a smile.

Catherine removed the ring from her finger and placed it on the cloth Mr. Kamaka was holding open. She watched as he turned and entered a back room then returned her attention to Steve. Her happiness shone on her face and he cupped her cheek with his hand before leaning in to place a gentle kiss on her lips.

He gazed at her for a moment then wrapped his arms around her suddenly and pulled her close. She returned the gesture and they held each other for a moment before Steve pulled back just enough to gaze at her again. "I love you, Catherine."

Her eyes were moist when she responded. "I love you, too.

An hour later they were seated at an out-of-the-way café they had visited on occasion in years past. Steve noticed Catherine couldn't help admiring her new engagement ring repeatedly as they ate. He put down his fork and offered his hand over the table, which she happily took. He rubbed his thumb over her fingers for a moment before he spoke.

"Do you want to move in with me?" he asked.

She looked taken aback for a moment, her voice uncertain when she spoke. "Sorry - I kind of assumed you'd want me to stay with you. But, if you want me to find my own place –" She broke off as he shook his head and squeezed her hand.

"No, Catherine, that's not what I meant. I have no intention of living apart from you ever again."

She cocked her head to the side and asked, "Then what?"

"I was asking if you wanted to move into my house, or whether you'd rather we find a new place together."

"What do you want?"

He looked up at her, studying her face. "I would like to stay in my place, make it our place. But I didn't want to just assume you –"

She interrupted him. "That's what I want too. I love that house. I love that it was your father's house. I love the beach out back. It never once crossed my mind that we would live anywhere else." She smiled gently at him and said, "But thank you for asking."

He grinned and rubbed his thumb over the back of your hand. "You're welcome." He leaned in closer. "It's important to me that you feel comfortable there," he spoke quietly and his expression left no doubt what he was suggesting, "what do you say we get out of here and work on that some more?"

She released his hand and pushed back her chair. "I can't think of anything I'd like more."

The morning of the third day Steve woke to Catherine's warm breath on his neck as she placed sleepy kisses on every part of him she could reach from where she lay sharing his pillow. The sleepy kisses quickly turned into an energetic round of lovemaking, though, and they fell back asleep for an hour.

They decided on breakfast on the lanai instead of in bed and enjoyed each other's company along with their omelets and fresh fruit. Catherine started to gather the plates but stilled when Steve took her left hand and ran his thumb over the ring that resided there before bringing it to his lips and kissing it softly.

"Let me get these. I should probably call Danny anyway."

He took the dishes in the kitchen and loaded them in the dishwasher before heading upstairs to grab his phone. He dialed and listened to it ring as he descended the stairs. His partner answered as he was crossing the living room toward the back door.

"Well, guess who decided to check in," Danny said by way of greeting, although his tone gave away that he was joking. "How's things?"

Steve laughed. "Good. They're good. How is everything there?"

"Same, no new cases in the last couple days."

Steve assumed Danny must have exited his office into the main room because he heard Kono in the background.

"Tell the boss that we're going to drop by unannounced if they don't get out of bed and let us come visit them soon," she said.

Danny didn't repeat the message but simply asked, "You get all that?"

"Hold on a sec." Steve moved the phone from his ear and muted the microphone as he turned toward Catherine with a smile on his face. "I think Kono missed you. When do we want to see them?"

"Why don't we have everyone over tonight? We can grill, hang out on the beach…"

Steve considered her words for a moment. "We'll have to go to the store."

She grinned at him from across the lanai. "I think, if we work together, we can plan and execute that op."

Steve put the phone back to his ear and his smile was evident in his voice when he spoke. "We'll have everyone over tonight for a cookout on the beach."

"Everyone?" Danny asked. "Who's everyone?"

"Who's everyone?" Steve raised his eyebrows in a silent question and Catherine nodded in response. "The more the merrier."

And so, about eight hours later people began descending on Casa McGarrett. There were many hugs, some tears and repeated exclamations of surprise followed by expressions of congratulations that Steve had proposed and the couple was now engaged.

Danny had greeted his best friend warmly and pulled Catherine into an embrace, telling her he was happy she was home safe. He seemed shocked at the engagement ring adorning Catherine's finger but recovered quickly and wished the couple his best. Despite having arrived at the gathering with Melissa and Grace in tow he had spent quite a bit of the evening alone, quietly observing those around him. He watched as his partner manned the grill, looking up and catching the eye of his girl- sorry, fiancée- every few minutes.

Danny watched at one point as Catherine excused herself from a group and made her way over to stand by Steve. The commander immediately wrapped one arm around his lieutenant and pulled her close, leaning in as she said something that must have been funny because he laughed. A real laugh, the kind of sound Danny had not heard come from Steve for way too long. Same thing with that smile; the one that made him look truly happy and only appeared when Catherine was around.

He had to admit they did look happy, and he was relieved to see the parts of his friend's personality that had been missing for almost a year starting to reappear. But he was rationally concerned that Steve's proposal had, at least partially, been a desperate attempt to get Catherine to accompany him home and that his best friend was rushing into something and would get hurt again. Only this time, the hurt would be much, much worse.

He needed to think on whether or not to try and broach the subject with his partner. Steve had never really taken advice on his relationship with Catherine very well. Although, Danny had to give credit where credit was due – his partner's relationship was longer-term than any of Danny's had been. In the meantime, he figured he'd just have to just wait and see.

He saw Catherine look up and catch his eye before she said something in Steve's ear and ducked out from under his arm to head in his direction. Her smile was genuine as she approached and she pulled him into a hug.

"You know, Danny, I really missed you."

He smiled as they released each other. "I really missed you, too," he replied, and he meant it.

Her smile faltered as her expression became more serious. "I wanted to um… I wanted to thank you for… everything."

She didn't have to elaborate – Danny knew exactly what she meant and, despite the resentment he'd harbored since the incident he found himself wanting to just put it behind him.

"Hey – no need to thank me. He would have done the same thing for me."

"Yes, he would. But it's more than that. I could never have stayed away if I didn't know you'd have his back."

With those words Danny realized Catherine had opened the door to the very subject he had been wanting to broach and figured there was no time like the present. But he knew he'd have to tread carefully to get the answers he needed without alienating one or both of his friends. He shuffled for a moment, trying and failing to hide his discomfort. But he forged ahead because his best friend's long-term happiness was too important.

"Can I ask you…" he paused for a moment, gesturing with his right hand as he continued, "why did you stay away? For so long, I mean."

He noticed Catherine's gaze shift to where Steve was standing at the grill talking with Lou and he followed her line of sight. The SEAL must have felt their eyes on him because he looked over his shoulder at them questioningly. He cocked an eyebrow almost imperceptibly and Danny noticed Catherine nod at him and flash a quick smile. He realized they were communicating from a distance and without using words but whatever Steve saw was apparently enough to reassure him because a moment later he turned back to his conversation with Grover.

Worried he might have offended her with his question Danny touched her arm lightly to get her attention. "Hey - if it's none of my business you can tell me so and I'll just shut up."

She met his eyes and smiled briefly before casting her gaze downward. "No, it's uh, it's okay. I get that you're just protecting him," she said softly. She closed her eyes and exhaled before opening her eyes and turning her gaze back to Danny. "I, uh – I thought I was doing what was best for him. I thought he'd be better off without me."

Danny waited for a beat and then prompted, "And now?"

"Now?" She shook her head. "Now… I'm happy to be home."

Danny considered his next question carefully. "So, uh… Are there any other families out there that might, uh…" he paused, seeking the right words, "need your help in the future?"

Catherine smiled fondly. "No." Her voice was soft but her words firm. "You don't have to worry, Danny. I have no intention of ever leaving Steve again. He's stuck with me for as long as he'll have me."

Danny cleared his throat and grinned. "That's, uh, that's good. I am very glad to hear that."

Some time later when the party had started to wind down Chin-Ho exited the downstairs bathroom and noticed Steve in the kitchen, standing by the window. Steve had spent most of the evening within arm's reach of his intended and so Chin wondered now what Steve was doing inside by himself. He changed direction and headed toward his friend asking, "You do know the party's outside, right?"

Steve turned and watched the other man approaching. "Yeah. I was just putting the leftovers away. You on your way out?" he said distractedly.

Chin nodded and turned slightly, assuming Steve would follow him. But when his boss turned back to the window Chin wondered what had captured the man's attention and moved to stand beside him. Catherine and Kono were sitting on the lanai talking and laughing and Steve couldn't seem to tear his eyes away.

Chin smiled softly. "I'm glad you're not wasting any more time," he said.

Steve glanced at him. "Sorry?"

"There's never enough time. I wasted so much time... with Malia." Chin sighed. "I would give anything for just one more day."

Steve looked down for a moment before making eye contact with his friend. "Yeah," he said somberly. He put his hand on Chin's shoulder. "I don't, uh… I don't know how you got through it the way you did," he said, his respect for his teammate evident in his voice. "But I admire the hell out of you for it."

Chin nodded once. "You just take it one day at a time, you just find something to live for every day."

It was Steve's turn to nod and they were silent for a few moments. "Are we, uh, are we having a moment right now?" he said, attempting to lighten the mood.

Chin grinned and shook his head. "Maybe?"

They shared a laugh before Steve looked out at Catherine again. Chin observed as Steve watched Catherine with an affectionate smile on his face – his happiness was written all over him and it made the Hawaiian happy for his friend. Steve turned to head outside and Chin fell into step beside him. Steve stopped at the cooler on the lanai and held out a beer to his teammate and then grabbed a second bottle for himself.

"You guys set a date?" Chin asked.

"Not exactly. We'd like to do it soon. Maybe a couple months?"

Chin nodded, understanding completely, and extended his bottle in a toast to his friend. "Like I said, I'm glad you're not wasting any more time."

Steve grinned as their bottles clinked and replied, "Me too, Chin." He looked over at where Catherine and Kono were catching up, smiling and chatting animatedly. "Me too".

Six weeks later Steve was again standing in his backyard, this time facing the house and wearing a light grey suit, a crisp white shirt with the collar open and a traditional, green, Maile lei that hung open-ended to just below his waist. Standing to his left were Danny, Chin, Joe and Lou, similarly attired. Behind him was a chaplain wearing a black suit and draped in a ceremonial lei and in front of him was a small number of white chairs filled with his and Catherine's families and closest friends. It was an intimate setting, as they wanted to share this day with only those most important to them. Steve was happy now they had made that choice as he looked out amongst those gathered and recognized each and every face and knew they all had a place in his and Catherine's lives.

He stood next to his best friend as music began to play and watched as the processional began. Danny's daughter Grace, now a beautiful thirteen-year old young woman, then Ellie Clayton, who had become fast friends with Catherine as soon as Steve introduced them, then his sister Mary, and finally Kono proceeded down the aisle and took their places on the opposite side of the Chaplain.

The music swelled and he forgot to breathe as Catherine appeared on the lanai on the arm of her father. She was more beautiful than he'd ever seen her in a simple dress that was white, strapless, and highlighted her trim figure. He was still feeding her well to help her gain back the weight she'd lost in Afghanistan and was almost there; the dress fit her figure perfectly. Her hair was up in a looser-than-regulation bun at her neck and he hoped he'd be able to catch a glimpse of her blue star tattoo underneath it but knew he'd be searching it out later, regardless.

Rather than wear a lei she had a white Plumeria blossom tucked behind her left ear. He smiled; happy about the placement of the flower and recalling a weekend they had spent in Mumbai years before where they had discussed that very thing. She was carrying a simple bouquet of white flowers in her left hand and her right arm was looped through her father's. Steve thought his heart might burst from the love he felt at the sight of his beloved approaching and he couldn't recall a time in his life when he had felt happier or more content.

He had reluctantly returned to work the morning after the 'welcome home' party when they had been handed a case the governor had a special interest in. At Danny's urging he had convinced Catherine to accompany him to the office because it was an 'all hands on deck' sort of thing and to the surprise of no one her help had proved invaluable.

It seemed a natural progression of things and neither one of them had questioned it when she partnered up with Kono a few days later to question a suspect and a week after that she was back in the field as if she'd never left. Steve had silently supported her all the way always hoping she'd find her way back to the team but allowing her to make her own decisions and it had paid off. He had never doubted her having his back and, given time, she had stopped doubting herself; she and Kono had become an excellent and effective team.

He loved working with her every day and returning to the home he shared with her every night. Although he still regretted that it took them so long to get to this place he was more ready then he ever thought he would be to pledge to spend the rest of his life with Catherine as his wife.

Danny broke him out of his reverie when he leaned over and murmured, "You done good, buddy." Steve glanced at his best man and nodded appreciatively. When Catherine and her father reached them Steve shook his future father-in-law's hand before taking Catherine's hand in his as she came to stand facing him.

"You are beautiful," he told her softly.

"Thanks, handsome. You're not so bad yourself."

The Chaplain took over then, and guided them through the remainder of the short ceremony. They had elected to go with traditional vows, although each planned to make additional, more private promises to the other later. Each said 'I do', then Steve slid a simple gold band onto Catherine's left ring finger to rest again the diamond solitaire that already resided there and she placed onto his finger a similar band, although she had insisted his be made of titanium so it would last the lifetime they planned to be together.

Steve could barely wait for the Chaplain to pronounce them married but once he did Steve just looked upon his wife for several seconds, memorizing the way she looked and how he felt at that moment. Danny finally poked him and whispered, "Just kiss her already," which got a laugh from those in attendance.

Catherine reached up to place a hand on the side of Steve's face and stroked his cheek with her thumb before mouthing, "I love you," and flashing him a dazzling smile. He pulled her to him and they finally shared their first kiss as husband and wife.

A few hours later the group had moved into an open-air tent – erected to keep the sun and potential afternoon rain off the guests. Danny stood in the back quietly observing the festivities. Chin approached his friend, noticing Amber and Grace chatting animatedly at a table nearby. Companionable silence ensued between the men and Chin realized Danny was watching the bride and groom as they made the rounds, visiting with their guests. They both noticed how Steve kept a hand on his wife at all times, leaning in for a kiss whenever they had a free moment. They looked like newlyweds, which they technically were, and obviously very much in love. But those who knew them knew what they'd experienced, seen and overcome in their lives and that their relationship was far from new.

Chin recalled his first exposure to the woman he now called a close friend. Five years prior he and Steve had been pursuing an escaped inmate and were about to lose traffic camera coverage. Steve, without missing a beat, had called Catherine who, from her duty station on the USS Enterprise, had used military satellites to give them a location on their suspect and then he made a date for the next time she had leave. Chin had been both impressed and intrigued by this mysterious Catherine and was happy, and no less impressed, when he finally had the pleasure of meeting her in person.

Steve had waited for months to finally introduce her to his team. Chin had always presumed it was because Steve wanted to keep her to himself for as long as possible, especially in those days when she was active duty on deployment and the time they could spend together in person was rare. He had seen them together very little in those early years, but what he had seen had been very good.

Then, after a couple years she was transferred to Pearl. Whether it was something she'd requested or by chance he still didn't know but it had been nice seeing the changes having her on the island full time brought out in his boss. She worked with them on a few cases, her help always invaluable, and he and the team really got to know her and she became part of their 'ohana.

Chin was never really sure what happened after Afghanistan. Sure, he knew Steve had been captured and been rescued by a SEAL team. He also knew Danny had a heck of a time convincing him to leave the country without Catherine, but had finally wrangled the man back on U.S. soil. Catherine had been gone for the better part of a year until one day Steve had left the office like a man on a mission and had returned four days later with her as his betrothed.

He recalled how unhappy Danny had been during Steve's time away, how truly worried he had been for his friend. But Steve had checked in as he had promised, so they knew he was safe and they knew when to expect him home. He had told them only that he had found Catherine, and that she was okay and he was bringing her back to Hawaii. It had been clear to both Chin and Kono that Danny's reaction to Steve's news was not altogether positive, but the man had covered it well. Chin wasn't sure Steve ever knew, and it didn't matter anymore, not now.

Chin glanced over at his friend, "Didn't think we'd ever see this day. You?"

Danny grunted, "You mean we should have foreseen this back when the Neanderthal wouldn't even call her his girlfriend?"

Chin laughed at that then asked, "Do you know what made him go and bring her back home?"

"Hey man, I'm happy for you… Do you guys need a ride or… No, we're good. Take a couple days… Okay, safe flight, babe."

Danny disconnected the call and looked over at his teammates. Chin and Kono were gathered around the smart table with him and Grover was in court on an old case from his time with SWAT. "That was Steve," he said, unnecessarily.

"Yeah, brah, we got that." Chin directed his smirk at Kono. "Good news?" he asked Danny.

"Um… yeah. He found Catherine and they're coming home soon."

The cousins turned and fist bumped each other.

"I'm glad she's coming back," Kono said, rubbing her hands together, "it's about time. Finally, another sistah around here!"

"I'm uh…. I'm not sure she's coming back to Five-0. At least not right away."

Danny's distinct lack of excitement had his teammates puzzled. Chin decided to take the bull by the horns. "You all right, Danny? You don't seem too excited."

Danny was quick to respond. "Yeah. It's all good... Steve sounded happy."

Chin raised his eyebrows. "But?" he asked, drawing out the word.

"I dunno, man. I guess I just don't want to see Steve get hurt again."

"I thought you said they were safe and heading home," Chin said, his worry rising.

Danny was quick to correct the misperception. "Oh, yeah, no! No, as far as I know they'll be home safe in a couple of days."

He looked at the table, seeming to search for something while Chin and Kono observed him with amused looks on their faces. "Although knowing SuperSEAL I should probably find some wood to knock on."

Chin nodded with understanding. "Ah." When Danny didn't elaborate he raised his eyebrows as a prompt for the man to continue.

"I just meant, uh… well, you know it was tough on him when she stayed behind. I just wouldn't want something like that to happen again."

This prompted Kono to chime in. "Yeah, but that was a special case, brah. I can't see them ending up in that kind of situation again."

"Yeah. No, Kono, you're right. I guess I just can't help worrying about the big lug, you know. Guy can't seem to keep himself out of trouble." Danny sounded sincere, but the cousins still felt there was a something off with their blonde teammate.

Kono was excited to see her good friend again and asked Danny, "So, are they going to call when they get in so we can go visit?"

"Uh, Steve said they wanted to take a few days. Said he probably wouldn't be coming in unless we got a big case and then to call if we need him."

Kono smiled. "Awww… Lovebirds want to be alone."

"Yeah, I guess so," the blonde replied.

Danny came out of his recollection and noticed Steve and Catherine had migrated to the dance floor and were swaying in time with the music. He watched as they gazed into each other's eyes and spoke quietly to each other.

Danny cleared his throat before answering Chin's question, his eyes still on the bride and groom. "Yeah. He, uh, he said it was something Kono said to him, made him realize she was running away." He met Chin's eyes before looking back over at his honorary brother and new sister-in-law. "I guess he decided to go after her."

Chin followed Danny's gaze to the happy couple. "I'm glad he did," he said.

"Me too," Danny echoed.

Chin turned toward his friend. "You mean that?" At Danny's questioning look he raised his eyebrows. "I know you had some… reservations when she first came back."

Danny nodded. "Yeah, I mean that." He jutted his chin toward the dance floor. "Have you ever seen him that happy? He's the best version of himself when she's around."

They both kept their eyes on Steve and Catherine as the music changed and Steve spun Catherine out and back without missing a beat. They had transitioned into some sort of ballroom-looking dance, like they'd practiced for years and Danny just shook his head. "Damn."

Chin looked over at him, surprised. "What?"

Danny chuckled. "Is there anything he can't do?"

Chin smiled and shook his head. "No brah, I don't think there is."

Steve and Catherine were in their own little world and only vaguely aware of the eyes that were trained on them. Steve watched his wife smile as he twirled her and couldn't remember a time when he had ever been so happy. The song ended and they stopped moving, hands still joined as they gazed in each other's eyes for a moment.

Steve pulled Catherine to him and folded her in his embrace. "I love you, you know," he said into her ear, echoing his words from almost a year prior.

She pulled back just enough to see his face. "I love you, too."

"Thank you for marrying me, Lieutenant."

Catherine smiled. "You're welcome, Commander. Thank you for asking."

He flashed her one of those grins that were reserved only for her and always made her heart soar. "Anytime."

He dipped his head to kiss her as their friends and family looked on, watching two people who were so obviously made for each other and had finally found the lasting happiness they both deserved.

End