Disclaimer I don't own DCI Banks. ITV and the original authors own all. No copyright infringement is intended nor should be inferred

1

Annie stared at the ceiling as she thought about the day ahead. She knew Ayla would be awake soon, bounding into the room ready to face the day. It was three days before her fifth birthday and the little girl was so excited it was contagious. She turned slightly to her left to see Alan snoozing quietly. She couldn't help but smile as she watched her fiancé. He was older than her - wise beyond his years and more experienced at life in general. She had no idea what he saw in her.

"Morning." Alan spoke quietly, his voice still thick with sleep.

"Hi."

"Whass the time?"

"Early. Only." She looked at her watch "Half five." Alan rolled his eyes. He'd never really been a morning person.

"Why are you awake?"

"Can't sleep."

"What's wrong?" He sat up, turning onto his side he gave her his full attention. Immediately concerned his eyes flickered to the scar on her side. He remembered the stabbing and her fight to live as if it had happened that week. His hand ghosted over the cotton t shirt covering the healed wound. Annie rested her hand over his.

"Nothing." She smiled as he watched her. "I think I'm ready to go back to work."

"You said that two days after you were released from hospital."

"I mean it now." Worry filled his eyes. "I'm so lucky."

"How? A nutcase tried to kill you twice."

Annie flushed as she remembered the man she would only refer to as her biggest mistake. Alan touched her face, knowing she needed no reminding of the horrific night they had almost been separated forever.

"But he didn't." She smiled softly. "And I can't let him win."

"Annie?"

"I have a job I'm bloody good at and that I love. I have a healthy, happy little girl and you." She kissed him lightly on the lips. He sighed as she wrapped her arms around him. He had always thought he was the lucky one. What Annie saw in him he had no idea. Kissing her he tried to put into action what he could never find the words for. Breaking as the need for air overwhelmed them both he rested his forehead on hers.

"I love you Annie Cabbot."

She smiled as tears filled her eyes.

"I know." She whispered as his lips found hers once more.

Xxxxxx

A/N Please review