I have a story underway called Can't Love You about Jason McCann and how he eventually falls in love with a girl named Kady who turns out to be Nick's daughter. I will put in a brief summary but since all of it's in Jason's POV, you probably wouldn't understand fully how she came to be. So I put this together for you. I'm possibly gonna rewrite all the seasons with Kady in it as well because I can. :D

I own nothing aside from OCs.

This will be divided into parts so technically, it's a one-shot. Each part contains a song related to the moment. Some will not be exactly related but you will hopefully get what I mean. For example, realization of feelings will be On My Mind by Cody Simpson.

ENJOY!

WARNING! WARNING! OOC ALERT! WARNING! WARNING! And actually, it's intended. He was still serious but more fun-loving than serious at first but that will change when he learns of Abigail's pregnancy with Kady. And, uh...I'm having it as he never worked at the Dallas Crime Lab. So if I get some facts wrong...don't yell at me.

First Meeting – First Time – Lifehouse

We're both looking for something.
We've been afraid to find.
It's easier to be broken.
It's easier to hide.

Is it wrong to feel like a walking zombie? Is it wrong to feel like a nocternal beast? Well, that's what it's like for Nick Stokes. He slowly trudged out of bed and walked towards his bathroom for a nice warm relaxing shower. Then he got dressed, brushed his teeth and made himself a little something for breakfast before grabbing his jacket, keys and heading out the door.

"Just another day at the lab," he grumbled as he started the ignition and drove to the Las Vegas Crime Lab.

Once he arrived, he parked his car, locked it and headed towards the elevator. He pressed the up button and went inside after the automatic doors opened. The elevator was about to close when he heard someone yell,

"HOLD THE LIFT!"

He immediately pressed the button to open the door and when the doors opened once more, he felt his breath hitch in his throat at the sight before him. Before him was a woman around his age; and a beautiful one of that. She looked like an older version of Hayden Panettiere with her blonde hair and hazel eyes. She was wearing a red long-sleeve shirt with dark blue jeans with a nice black belt and black boots. Nick's jaw fell to the floor and his eyes were wide open.

Looking at you holding my breath,
For once in my life, I'm scared to death.
I'm taking a chance, letting you inside.

Nick still didn't lose his facial expression when the young woman walked in. She went to hit a button next to a floor number on the elevator but she saw that the button was already pressed. And it happened to be pressed by Nick Stokes himself. Between the two of them, it was silent. It wasn't until the doors were shut and the elevator was moving that they started making small talk.

"Crime Lab?" she asked.

"Yep. You?" he questioned.

"Yep. First day as an intern," she responded.

"Assault. I've completed about 25 cases so far. If I complete 100, I get promoted to CSI Level 3," Nick boasted.

"I'll look forward to that day," she remarked.

"I'm Nick, by the way. Nick Stokes," Nick introduced himself before offering his hand for her to shake.

"Abigail. Abigail Nelson," she returned as she shook his hand.

Feeling alive all over again,
As deep as the sky, under my skin.
Like being in love, she says, for the first time.
Maybe I'm wrong. But I'm feeling
Right where I belong with you tonight.
Like being in love to feel for the first time.

"So do you know who's going to take you under their wing?" Nick asked.

"Captain Brass said he would assign me when I arrive," Abigail responded.

"Just a warning: Captain Brass can be cool but you don't wanna get on his bad side. He doesn't like it when someone questions his authority. If you do...well, nice knowing you," Nick warned.

"I'll take that advice. Anything else I should know about anyone?" Abigail questioned.

"Catherine Willows is the mother-figure of the bunch. She gives the best advice around. Warrick Brown is the second-coolest guy you will ever meet. He is laid back but serious at the same time," Nick began explaining.

"Second coolest guy? Who's the coolest?" Abigail cut him off.

"Me," Nick laughed, "Then there's Gil Grissom. He's the father-figure of the bunch. But once you get him talking about bugs, you can never get him to shut up." He rolled his eyes a little bit at the last part.

The world that I see inside you,
Waiting to come to life,
Waking me up to dreaming,
Reality in your eyes.

"So unless I want to be talked to death, don't bring up the topic around Grissom," Abigail summised.

"Keep that in mind and you'll be fine around here," Nick reassured her.

"And what about you, Mr Stokes?" Abigail asked.

"I'm like the fun-loving but serious son in a family. I know when to crack jokes and all that and when to be serious," Nick defined himself, "What addition would you be to the bunch, Miss Nelson?"

"I know how to throw a party, I'm down-to-earth, honest and I'm also an excellent cook," Abigail responded.

"I guess we're at our floor. Come on. I'll take you to Captain Brass," Nick offered as they walked out of the elevator.

"Thanks, Nick," Abigail thanked appreciately.

"No problem, Abby," Nick responded.

"Abby?" Abigail repeated.

"You don't like it?" Nick asked nervously.

"It's just I've always gone by Abigail. No one ever gave me a nickname," she explained.

"Well, Abby Nelson, you have just been nicknamed," Nick proclaimed earning giggles from her.

Looking at you; holding my breath.
For once in my life, I'm scared to death.
I'm taking a chance ;etting you inside.

"Come in!" Captain Brass shouted from his desk after he heard a knock on his door.

He looked up as the door opened and he saw Nick and Abigail walk inside. Captain Brass smiled when they walked in.

"Ah, Miss Nelson! I see you found your way OK," Captain Brass remarked, "Thanks for bringing her in, Stokes."

"No problem. I'll catch you guys later," Nick said as he went to leave.

"Not without your new intern," Captain Brass smirked.

"Excuse me?" was all Nick and Abigail could get passed their mouths.

"Well, Stokes, your main point is hair and fibre analysis. Abigail graduated from Harvard with honors and degrees in criminology, biology and forensics," Captain Brass boasted.

"I don't remember asking for an intern. I'm not even high enough in the ranks to have one!" Nick objected.

"First of all, you have the talents and the proficency to take on an intern like Miss Nelson. Second of all, no one ever asks. They just get assigned," Captain Brass retorted.

I'm feeling alive all over again.
As deep as the sky that's under my skin.
Like being in love, she says, for the first time.
Maybe I'm wrong. I'm feeling right
Where I belong with you tonight.
Like being in love to feel for the first time…

"Well, looks like I'm your mentor," Nick remarked to Abigail with a smirk.

"Can't wait to get started, boss," Abigail returned with the same smirk.

"First of all, Abby, I'm gonna need a blood sample from you as part of the standard procedure. Also, I'm going to need you to sign this waevers in the case of you being injured or killed whilst in the field," Nick instructed.

"Yes, sir," Abigail replied.

"Come on. I'll take you to my office. You can dump your things and we can get started," Nick decided as he guided her out of Brass' office.

"So what first, boss?" Abigail asked.

"Well, I had a trick roll yesturday and I have hair and fibre samples that need to be analyzed. That will be a good start," Nick responded, "How long are you going to be an intern?"

"Until I finally earn my doctorate in about a year," Abigail answered.

We're crashing into the unknown.
We're lost in this. But it feels like home.

Now they were in Nick's office analyzing the hair and fibre samples Nick mentioned earlier. Well…Abigail was. Nick was observing her skills. Everytime she did something right, his smile grew even wider. He admired the way she would gaze into the microscope and take down notations and the way she spoke. He was snapped out of his thoughts when he heard her voice.

"The fibre is polyester. As for the hair, it appears to be artificial. Now the victim had all of his hair. He wasn't balding so he doesn't need artificial hair. This could belong to his attacker. There could be enough DNA on the glue here. We just need something to compare it too. Maybe a mouth swab," Abigail informed him.

"That's first rate work for your first day. You're a fast learner," Nick complimented her.

"Thanks. That's what all the professors at Harvard kept on saying about me throughout the entire course," Abigail confessed.

"Hey, Abby, I know this might sound inappropiate to you since I'm your mentor, but can I have your number?" Nick asked nervously.

"Sure," Abigail agreed.

And so September 5 1992 was the day when Nick Stokes and Abigail Nelson first met.

I'm feeling alive all over again.
As deep as the sky that's under my skin.
Like being in love, she says, for the first time.
Maybe I'm wrong. I'm feeling right,
Where I belong with you tonight.
Like being in love to feel for the first time.

Becoming Friends – Breakaway – Kelly Clarkson

Da-da-da-da da, da.
Da-da-da-da da, da.
Da-da-da-da da-da-da da...

Now it's been two weeks since that faithful first meeting in the elevator for Nick and Abigail. They've grown closer but they're not exactly friends. Whenever they introduce each other to someone they know they always refer to one another as their collegue, not their friend. But on this day, all of this is about to change.

"Hey, Abby. How's that analysis going?" Nick asked as he walked in carrying a brown paper bag containing their lunch.

Grew up in a small town;
And when the rain would fall down,
I'd just stare out my window.
Dreaming of what could be.
And if I'd end up happy,
I would pray. (I would pray.)

"Results are in the file," Abigail responded from the couch.

Nick immediately turned to her when he heard how her voice sounded. Her voice sounded so small; so sad. She was curled up on the couch holding her phone. Her eyes were red and puffy and her porcelin cheeks are tearstrained. That appearance struck Nick's heart.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Nick demanded worriedly as he sat next to her on the couch.

"My dad had a heart attack. He didn't make it," she whimpered as fresh tears leaked from her eyes.

"I'm sorry, Abby," Nick murmured as he pulled her against his chest.

Trying hard to reach out.
But when I tried to speak out,
Felt like no one could hear me.
Wanted to belong here.
But something felt so wrong here.
So I prayed I could breakaway...

"The funeral's this weekend. I'm gonna talk to Brass and see if I can take some personal time," Abigail decided.

"That's the best thing for you right now. Allow yourself to spend some time to grieve. Be there for your family. They need you just like you need them," Nick told her, "Where exactly are you from?"

"Silver City. In New Mexico," Abigail whispered.

"Were you and your dad close?" Nick asked.

"Until I turned 16, he was an abusive alcoholic," Abigail mumbled, causing Nick to tense a little, "He used to beat me came close to raping me until he entered rebab. Then he stopped and started helping me recover from my parents' divorce. He encouraged me to go into forensics."

"Do you have any family here you can stay with? I don't want you to be alone," Nick said.

"All of my family's in Silver City," Abigail responded.

"You can stay with me tonight. I'll accompany you to Silver City for the funeral. So you can have a shoulder to cry on," Nick offered.

"Thanks, Nick," Abigail responded.

"No problem," Nick whispered as he pulled her closer as she began sobbing once more.

I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly.
I'll do what it takes till I touch the sky.
And I'll make a wish. Take a chance.
Make a change, and breakaway...
Out of the darkness and into the sun.
But I won't forget all the ones that I love.
I'll take a risk. Take a chance.
Make a change, and breakaway...

The following week passed by for Nick and Abigail in a blur. Captain Brass granted their requests for personal time. The only reason for granting Nick the personal time, though, is because he didn't want Abigail to be alone as she grieved for her father. Over the past two weeks, he saw the two of them as their relationship unknowingly grew from simple collegues to friends. He began seeing Abigail as a daughter of his own and loved seeing Nick being there for her.

Da-da-da-da da, da.
Da-da-da-da da, da.
Da-da-da-da da-da-da da...

Before they knew it, it was Friday and the day that Nick and Abigail would be flying out to New Mexico for the funeral. Abigail had asked her mother if it was OK if she brought someone with her to the funeral and she had said that it was fine because she would at least have someone. Nick held her hand in a comforting manner as they watched her father's casket being lowered six feet into the ground. He was her shoulder to cry on. He never left her side. Not once.

Wanna feel the warm breeze.
Sleep under a palm tree.
Feel the rush of the ocean.
Get onboard a fast train.
Travel on a jet plane.
Far away (I will) and breakaway…

"Thanks for coming with me, Nick," Abigail thanked as they entered her old home for the wake.

"You need someone you can depend on in these times, Abby. I was more than happy to come," Nick reassured her for what felt like the hundredth time.

"Just a little warning: my mother can tend to be overdramatic when she has too much to drink. So if she's drunk more than five glasses of wine, keep a safe distance," Abigail advised.

"I'll keep that in mind," Nick nodded.

I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly.
I'll do what it takes till I touch the sky.
And I'll make a wish. Take a chance.
Make a change, and breakaway…
Out of the darkness and into the sun.
But I won't forget all the ones that I love.
I'll take a risk. Take a chance.
Make a change, and breakaway…

"Abigail!" Tora Jackson sobbed as she embraced her daughter.

"Hi, mum," Abigail greeted sadly as she returned the hug, "I came as soon as I heard.

"It was such a tragedy. He was planning on surprising you at the lab next week!" Tora announced before finally noticing Nick standing beside her daughter, "And who is this handsome young man?"

"Mum, this is Nick Stokes. He's my mentor at the lab and a very good friend of mine. Nick, this is my mother, Tora," Abigail introduced.

Nick shoke Tora's hand when she offered it. He was stunned. Not once did they call one another friend. He was shocked; but happy nonetheless.

Building with a hundred floors.
Swinging around revolving doors.
Maybe I don't know where they'll take me.
But gotta keep moving on, moving on.
Fly away… Breakaway…

"I'm so sorry for your loss," Nick apologised.

"It certainly was a surprise to us all," Tora sighed sadly.

That night, Nick and Abigail returned to their hotel room. The following morning, they were flying back to Las Vegas. So they decided to leave the exhausting wake early so they could get a goodnight's rest before the long flight back home. Nick had showered before and now he was in a pair of grey tracksuit pants and a white tank top while he waited for Abigail to get ready for bed. He really needed to talk to her.

"Is there something on your mind?" Abigail asked as she approached him.

"It's what you called me at the funeral. I was a little shocked. We've known each other for two weeks and we've never referred to each other as friends," Nick confessed.

"Sorry. I've always thought of you as a friend. So…," Abigail started.

"I never said I didn't like that. I consider you a friend to. Why do you think I flew out here with you? I want you to know that you have a friend in me," Nick told her.

"Thanks, Nick," Abigail murmured as they shared a hug.

And so September 19 1992 was the day when Nick Stokes and Abigail Nelson started calling each other friend.

I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly.
Though it's not easy to tell you goodbye.
I gotta take a risk. Take a chance.
Make a change and breakaway…
Out of the darkness and into the sun.
But I won't forget the place I come from.
I gotta take a risk. Take a chance.
Make a change. And breakaway… Breakaway!
Breakaway…

Realization of Feelings – On My Mind – Cody Simpson.

I'm sleeping through the day.
I'm trying not to fade.
But every single night,
I've just been lying awake.
Cause I, (Cause I... Cause I...)
I can't get you off my mind.

"Hey, Nick!" Abigail greeted as she bounced into the room.

It's been six months now since the funeral and Nick and Abigail started calling each other friend. Their relationship has grown more than before and they were practically inseperable. People actually started wondering if they were dating. But they denied those claims with a blush. But Nick, for some reason, didn't want to deny that he and Abigail were in a relationship. He didn't know why.

"Hey, Abby!" Nick returned as he embraced her, "What's gotten you so happy?"

"You'll never believe what just happened!" Abigail squealed like a teenager.

"What happened?" Nick asked.

Abigail was about to answer. But then their pagers went off. They looked down and saw a 911 page from Captain Brass.

"I'll tell you later. We have a case," Abigail decided as they ran out of the office.

The moment that we met,
I didn't know yet,
That I was looking at a face I'll never forget.
Cause I, (Cause I… Cause I…) (Uh!)
I can't get you off my mind.
I can't get you off my mind!

"Oh look, guys. The lovebirds have stopped making out long enough to join us," Warrick Brown teased them.

"Shut up, man," Nick grumbled with a light blush.

"Nick, Abigail, you have a 419 at the Monaco. A girl wins $100 000 at a machine and is found dead an hour later. Catherine, Warrick, Gil, got a 420 at the nightclub down the road from the Monaco. An exotic dancer was found dead in her dressing room," Captain Brass explained.

"Jealousy's such a curse," Abigail sighed as she and Nick walked out.

"So what was it that you wanted to tell me before?" Nick asked as they loaded the stuff into the back.

"You know Officer Jacobs over in Homicide?" Abigail started. When Nick nodded, she continued, "He asked me out on a date for Saturday night."

"Did you say yes?" Nick questioned, secretly hoping she would say no.

"I do need a personal life, Nick," Abigail sighed as she slid into the passenger seat.

Nick just stood there by the boot looking and feeling heartbroken. Sure he and Officer Jacobs got along OK. But they weren't exactly friends. And when he learned that he made a move on his Abby, he felt like he got punched in the gut. Wait, HIS Abby?

Give me the chance to love you!
I'll tell you the only reason why!
Cause you are on my mind!
I wanna know you feel it!
What do you see when you close your eyes?
Cause you are on my mind!

The crime scene was processed in a matter of time. When Nick was around Abigail, he acted like he was happy for her about her date with Officer Jacobs that weekend. But when she wasn't looking or he was alone, he let his heartbreak over her plans shine like neon lights. Contineously, he kept on thinking that it should be HIM taking her out and NOT Officer Jacobs. And yet, he didn't know why he was thinking what he was thinking and feeling the way he was. He definitely needed to talk to Warrick at the lab when they were done.

I wanna be your best.
I wanna be your worst.
I wanna be the gravity in your universe.
And I, (And I… And I…)
I wanna be there to help you fly.
(I'll help you fly, girl…)

"Hey, Warrick. Got a minute?" Nick asked as he walked in.

"Tell Brass I'll have the results in a minute," Warrick requested without diverting his gaze from the microscope.

"Brass didn't send me!" Nick defended, "It's about Abby."

"I'm all ears," Warrick immediately reassured him as he looked up from the microscope. Well, the topic of Nick and Abigail IS his favourite topic.

"Lately, I've been feeling…strange around her. I start acting like an idiot when I'm with her. My heart either races or skips a beat whenever I think about her or I'm near her. When she's with me, all I want to do is press her against the wall and just do things with her. Whenever we're apart, I have to be with her. She's all I think about. She's all I dream about. And I don't know what this is," Nick confessed.

"Dude, you're a fool, but you're a fool in love," Warrick announced.

"What?" Stokes said.

"You're in love with her," Warrick restated.

Oh, the longer that I wait,
The more that I'm afraid,
That someone's gonna fool your heart and take you away.
Cause I, (Cause I... Cause I...)
I finally realized…
That I can't get you off my mind!

"That's impossible," Nick denied.

"All the signs are there, man. Well…that and she's the only girl that can make you act like a lovesick fool," Warrick teased his friend.

"So what should I do about it?" Nick asked.

"Dude, man up! Talk to her! Tell her how you feel! She might feel the same way!" Warrick exclaimed.

"I can't. Officer Jacobs from Homicide asked her out. They have a date Saturday night," Nick sighed.

"You're kidding! She's going out with that sleezebag!" Warrick exclaimed in disbelief.

"He's not that bad," Nick shrugged.

"Trust me, Nick. That sonofabitch isn't the right guy for her! You are!" Warrick objected.

Give me the chance to love you!
I'll tell you the only reason why!
Cause you are on my mind!
I wanna know you feel it!
What do you see when you close your eyes?
Cause you are on my mind!

"It's not like I can do anything about it!" Nick retorted.

"You can drop hints about your feelings for her! Maybe if you'll get lucky, something will happen between them and you'll have a shot with her!" Warrick shouted.

"I may love her but I want her to be happy as well! And if Officer Jacobs makes her happy, then I'm happy for her. She deserves happiness after what she's been though," Nick confessed.

"You're giving up," Warrick accused.

"It's not like it's a battle that I can win, dude," Nick groaned.

"You won't win if you don't fight, man! If you really love her more than life itself, you will fight for her until her heart stops beating!" Warrick yelled.

Girl, I can't live without you.
I can't think straight without you now.
So tell me what should I do!
If I can't get you off my mind!

"I swear on my grave and the grave of my future descendants that I will fight for Abigail Nelson until our hearts stop beating," Nick growled.

"Then start fighting for her, man!" Warrick encouraged his friend's retreating form.

"Believe me! I will!" Nick shouted back.

And so March 19 1993 was the day Nick Stokes realized that he was in love with Abigail Nelson.

Give me the chance to love you!
I'll tell you the only reason why!
Cause you are on my mind!
I gotta know you feel it! (Oh, oh!)
What do you see when you close your eyes? (Yeah…)
Cause you are on my mind!

You're on my mind…
You're on my mind all day and night, oh.
Cause you are on my mind!

Confessing Love – Can't Help Falling In Love – A*Teens

Oooh, ooh-ooh…
Ooooh, ooh-oooh…
Do, do, do, do-do-do…
I just can't help falling in love with you…

"Mallory James, you're under arrest for the murder of Peyton Montoya. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you can't afford one, one will be appointed to you," Nick read the rights.

It's been one month now since Nick confessed to Warrick that he was in love with Abigail. So far, he hasn't had the chance to confess his feelings to her. She went on that date with Officer Jacobs but it ended in a disaster when his other woman came along. Nick decided to wait until she was over Jacobs to confess his undying love for her. But then this case came up and…well, let me put it this way: they've been putting in a lot of overtime. After two weeks of slaving over evidence and leads, they have finally found the killer. But she's not gonna go with them easily.

"Don't come near me! I'll shoot both of you! I swear!" Mallory threatened as she pointed her gun at them.

"Mallory, please don't fight us! We can help you!" Abigail pleaded.

"I took the life of my lover! How am I supposed to forgive myself?" Mallory screamed.

"By accepting the concequences and then starting anew," Nick responded.

"Why? I'm gonna be dead either way!" Mallory sobbed.

"You won't be! We can protect you! Just tell us who paid you to kill Peyton and we will make sure they won't come near you anymore," Abigail swore.

"There are high security cells in prison," Nick added.

Wise men say only fools rush in.
But I can't help falling in love with you.

Mallory pointed her gun at Nick's chest whilst letting out a shrill scream of pure agony and loss. Nick was almost crying as he saw his life flash before his eyes just like the cliché says. He couldn't bear to watch. So he closed his eyes. Mallory prepared to pull the trigger and end Nick's life cold-heartedly. But just moments before the bullet could be released; Abigail drew her gun and stood inbetween Nick and Mallory. Two shots were fired. One shot pierced Mallory's head. Her body crumbled like a sack of spuds. Her blood formed a pool around her.

"Nice shot, Abby!" Nick cheered, only to get no response from her, "Abby?" Nick started to grow even more worried. Then he saw Abigail was about to collapse, "ABIGAIL!"

Abigail's knees buckled underneath her. In two long strides, Nick was next to her. He caught her but then he fell to his knees with her in his arms. Her colour was draining fast and her breathing was shallow and wheezy. He was about to ask her what was wrong but then he felt a warm substance on his arm. He removed his arm from her stomach and saw blood soaking her shirt. That caused his eyes to widen, a shocked gasp to escape his lips and fear to pulse through him. Abigail had been shot. And she didn't have a bulletproof vest underneath her shirt like he did.

Shall I say? Would it be a sin, (Be a sin?)
If I can't help falling in love with you?

"We heard gunshots!" Captain Brass shouted as he, Gil Grissom and Warrick Brown ran inside with their guns drawn. None of them were prepared for the sight before them.

"I need an ambulance! Abby's been shot!" Nick shouted as he cradled Abigail against his chest and applied pressure to the wound.

"I'll call for one now," Captain Brass announced as he ran outside.

"I'll see if anyone else is inside," Warrick decided as he sprinted up the staircase.

"What happened, Nick?" Gil demanded as he fell to his knees near them.

"Mallory was resisting arrest. She pointed her gun at me ready to shoot. But then Abby stepped in front of her and she managed to shoot Mallory in the head before taking the shot for me," Nick explained.

"An ambulance is on the way!" Captain Brass announced as he knelt next to Gil near Nick and Abigail.

"Nick," Abigail wheezed fearfully.

"I'm here, Abby. Help's coming. You're gonna be fine. Just hold on! Please!" Nick pleaded with sobs choking him as he applied more pressure to her wound.

"I can't! AAH!" Abigail shouted as she felt more pain course through her.

"You have to, Abby! Please! I love you! I can't live without you!" Nick confessed.

Captain Brass and Gil looked up at Nick who was openly crying. They felt their hearts go out to him when those words went past his lips. Here he was confessing his love to the only woman who could make him happy and act like a fool as he cradled her in his arms trying to stop her from dying because of a gunshot wound. Their relationship could possibly end before it had even begun. And the thought of that alone was simply heartbreaking; if the sight in front of them wasn't.

Like a river flows to the sea; so it goes. (Oooooh... Oooooh...)
Some things are meant to be…
Some things are meant to be!

"Nick, I-AAH!" Abigail's response was cut off by her scream in pain before she started convulsing violently.

"She's going into cardiac arrest. She's losing too much blood," Gil announced.

"NO!" Nick screamed as he applied even more pressure to her wound and held her tighter.

"WHERE'S THAT FUCKING AMBULANCE?" Captain Brass shouted.

"It's pulling up now, sir!" the officer inside yelled back.

"Tell them to hurry up! Abby's going into cardiac arrest!" Gil exclaimed.

"Did you just say that Abby's going into cardiac arrest?" Warrick asked as he raced down the stairs, fell on his knees next to Nick and helped apply pressure, "Come on, Abbstar!"

"Hold on, Abby. Please," Nick sobbed.

Abigail rested her head against Nick's chest with her eyes closed and tears of pain escaping. Nick felt her body become limp in his tight embrace. That scared the shit out of him. He was losing her. Fast. He held her closer and cried even harder against her than he was when she got shot. At that moment, the paramedics rushed in. Then everything started rushing by in a blur.

Take my hand. Take my whole life too… (Life too…)
But I can't help falling in love with you…

Nick has now changed out of his bloodstained CSI uniform and was wearing all black: black jeans, black t-shirt and black leather shoes. He was now sitting in one of those uncomfortable plastic chairs in the waiting room at the hospital with his head in his hands crying fresh tears. He felt like he was losing a part of him with Abigail in the operating room fighting for her life. Well, he did say that he loved her and that he couldn't live without her. It's a normal reaction!

Catherine Willows was sitting next to him with a comforting hand on his shoulder. She tried to remain strong. But inside, she was breaking down. Like Nick, she had tears spilling from her eyes. She loved Abigail as if she was her own daughter. She was heartbroken when she learned that she was shot during the arrest trying to save Nick. She felt like she was losing her daughter in there. And she is 5 months pregnant with Lindsay at this current point of time.

Gil was leaning against the wall near Catherine and Nick. His head was bent low and resting on his hand. He had been crying as well. He was close to Abigail as well. He loved her like a daughter. He even threatened the doctor to give her the best treatment possible or he would have the DA on his ass. And if that's not fatherly love, I don't know what is.

Warrick was pacing the aisleway in front of Nick and Catherine muttering silent prayers and saints. He was also crying. He had even broken down hysterically a few times. He loved her like a sister. And he couldn't bear the thought of losing his baby sister to some bullet. He wouldn't be able to recover from something like that. And he knew Nick wouldn't be able to either.

Brass was leaning against the wall near the big white doors Abigail was wheeled through when she was brought in. He was worried like the others were. But it wasn't just Abigail he was worried about. He was worried about everyone else as well and how they would cope if the unevitable happened and Abigail lost the battle of life and death. Gil would dive into his work. Warrick wouldn't joke around as much as he did. Catherine would mourn her like her daughter. As for Nick…he couldn't imagine what he would do. Depression and suicide would be in there.

They were pulled out of their thoughts when the doctor walked through the doors.

"Abigail Nelson!" she called out.

"Is she OK?" Captain Brass asked worriedly.

Wise men say only fools rush in…
But I, I can't! I can't help falling in love with you!

"I'm Doctor Ross. I'm in charge of Miss Nelson's case. We have good news and bad news. The good new is that we have managed to remove the bullet. She is responding well to the surgery and medicine and should be able to go home after a few days of observation. The bad news is that the anthesia hasn't worn off yet so she's going to be out for a couple of hours at most. Also, she's lost too much blood from the wound and the surgery so she will need a blood transfusion. Do you know what blood type Miss Nelson is?" Dr Ross asked.

"AB-," Gil answered.

"Abby and I have the same blood type. I'll donate some of my blood," Nick volunteered.

"You're giving her your blood?" Catherine gasped.

"She saved my life back there. There's no reason why I can't save hers," Nick retorted.

"If you'll just come this way, Mr Stokes," Dr Ross instructed as she went to lead Nick away from the others.

"Wait. Can the others see her?" Nick asked.

"Room 233," was Dr Ross' response.

"You guys go see Abby. I don't want her to be alone. I'll meet you guys there," Nick promised before walking away with Dr Nelson.

Like the river flows to the sea; so it goes. (Ooooooh... Oooooooh...)
Some things are meant to be…
Some things are meant to be!

A few hours have passed now and Nick was sitting by Abigail's bedside with his head on her mattress and holding her hand. At Catherine's insistance, he was trying to catch some sleep. Abigail still hadn't woken up yet so none of the CSIs have left the hospital...except Captain Brass who offered to drive Abigail's hysterical mother to her hotel. Gil was getting some fresh air, Warrick was on a food and drink run in the cafeteria and Catherine was contineously making bee lines between the room and the bathroom as per the downside of her pregancy of having to pee all the time. Well...your bladder does become smaller when pregnant so...

"Anything yet?" Warrick asked as he walked in and handed Nick a paper bag and coffee.

"Doctor said she's improving. The anthesia is starting to wear off. She should wake up soon," Nick responded as he sipped his coffee and took a bite of his bagel, "Where are the others?"

"Brass is on his way back. Catherine's getting something to drink and Gil is still outside," Warrick explained, "The only person who hasn't left her bedside is you, Nick."

"I wanna be here when she wakes up," Nick grumbled.

"Man, the only time you weren't in this godforsaken hospital was when you made a pitstop at the lab to get changed out of your bloody clothes! You need to get out of here; stretch your legs. Get some fresh air! You'll start wasting away by her bedside if you don't!" Warrick retorted, "Do you think Abby would want that?"

Suddenly, Nick felt Abigail's hand twitch inside his. They looked up and saw her head moving from side to side and her eyes fluttering. She was muttering something they couldn't understand. Nick couldn't have cared less about what she was muttering. She was waking up. That was more than enough for him.

"She's waking up!" Nick cheered in joy.

"I'll go get the others," Warrick decided before bolting out of the room.

Take my hand. Take my whole life too.
But I can't help falling in love with you!

"Nick," Abigail murmured as she finally opened her eyes fully.

"I'm here, Abby," Nick reassured her as he held her hand.

"What happened?" Abigail asked as she went to sit up before wincing in pain.

"Take it easy," Nick instructed gently as he placed a hand on her shoulder and pushed her on the bed, "We were at Mallory's townhouse to take her into custody for Peyton's murder. But she wouldn't comply. She was about to shoot me but you stood inbetween the two of us. Both of you ended up getting shot."

"What about Mallory?" Abigail questioned.

"She's dead. You shot her in the head. Commander Brass has classified that as self-defence," Nick reassured her.

"What happened to your arm?" Abigail demanded as she referred to the cotton ball stuck to his arm.

"You've lost a lot of blood, Abby. You even went into cardiac arrest at the scene. And your blood type happened to be the rarest blood type in the world. So I volunteered myself to give blood to you since you and I share the same blood type," Nick explained.

"You did not!" Abigail gasped.

"We need to talk," Nick blurted.

"Aren't we already talking?" Abigail joked.

"Did you hear what I said to you? Before you went into cardiac arrest at the scene?" Nick asked.

"Nick, I was in so much pain. The only reason I remember what happened is because you told me," Abigail answered.

"Well, I told you something. You were about to respond but, you nearly died in my arms. I told you that...that I love you and I can't live without you. When I lost you out there, I thought I was losing myself with you. I breathe for you now. My heart beats for you. Whatever I do, I do for you out of love," Nick confessed to her.

Abigail laid there shocked for a moment. He was in love with her and can't live without her. And that he's been feeling this way about her for quite a while. And the best thing was...

"I love you too," Abigail whispered.

Take my hand! (Take my hand!)
Take my whole life too! (Life too!)
For I can't help falling in love with you!
For I can't help falling in love...

Nick just smiled happily with tears of joy spilling from his eyes. Abigail was crying as well. Smiling, he sat next to her on the bed and they kissed happily knowing that their feelings were out in the open. Once everyone walked in on them playing tonsil tennis, everyone started cheering like mad. (AN: I am so sorry about the tonsil tennis remark! I just had to add that in!) And all they could say about the new pairing was...ABOUT DAMN TIME! Then started talking and giggling like a bunch of teenagers into the Las Vegas night.

Falling in love with you!

So April 20 1993 was the day Nick Stokes was close to losing Abigail Nelson for the first time. It was also the day that they finally let their undying devotion for each other out into the open, much to the pleasure of their family and friends.

Like a river flows!
That's the way it goes!
I just can't help falling in love with you!
(Falling in love with you!)

Like a river flows! (YEAH! YEAH!)
That's the way it goes! (Cause I can't!)
Falling in love with you!

Like a river flows!
(I just can't help myself!)
That's the way it goes!
I can't help falling in love with you!

(I can't help falling in love with you!)
(I can't help falling in love with you!)

Falling in love with you!

Officially Boyfriend/Girlfriend – Faithfully – Glee Cast

Highway run into the midnight sun.
Wheels go round and run. You're on my mind.

"Hey, beautiful," Nick greeted as he kissed her cheek.

"Hey, handsome," Abigail returned.

"Did you get the DNA result back?" Nick asked.

"Mmm-hmm. It's a match. Jackson Taylor was at the scene at the time of the murder," Abigail announced.

"OK. We've proven that he was there. We just need to prove if he was our mystery witness or the killer," Nick sighed.

"We seriously need to apply for overtime," Abigail remarked.

"You can say that again," Nick agreed as he ran a hand over his face.

Now it has been a month now since Abigail got shot during an arrest and they confessed their feelings. They started acting like a couple even though they are not officially a couple yet. They still hadn't called each other boyfriend/girlfriend and they didn't talk about being boyfriend/girlfriend. They think of each other that way. Sure. But they haven't said it out loud.

Restless hearts sleep alone tonight...
Sending all my love along the wire...

"Where were you anyways?" Abigail asked.

"Warrick needed to talk to me about something," Nick lied.

"OK. We're still having lunch together right?" Abigail questioned.

"Of course," Nick responded with a smile before his pager began beeping.

"You're needed," Abigail laughed.

"Grissom wants to see me," Nick explained before kissing her quickly and running out, "See you at lunch!"

"See you then!" Abigail called back before examining the fibres in the microscope once more.

They say that the road ain't no place to start a family!
Right down the line, it's been you and me!
And loving a music man ain't always what it's supposed to be!
Oh boy, you stand by me!
I'm forever yours... Faithfully...

"You wanted to see me?" Nick asked as he walked into the office.

"Did Abby get the test results back?" Gil questioned.

"DNA's a match. Jackson Taylor was at the scene at the time of the murder. We just have to prove if he was a witness or the killer," Nick reported.

"That's good. I'll pass it on to Brass. We're close to closing this case," Gil remarked, "And Nick?"

"Yes?" Nick responded.

"I know you're planning on asking her at lunch," Gil announced.

"Are you saying it's inappropiate to ask the woman I love to officially be my girlfriend at the workplace?" Nick demanded nervously.

"No, no. Not at all. Actually, I think it's romantic. And that's coming from me," Gil laughed, "I was going to suggest you give her flowers when you ask her. Make it even more romantic."

"What flowers should I get for her?" Nick asked.

"Amaryllis, White Carnations, Chrysanthemum, Gladiolus, Heather Lavender, Yellow Iris; actually, I think I'll come with you to the flower shop and help you pick out the flowers," Gil decided as he placed a hand on Nick's shoulder and guided him out of the lab.

Circus life under the big top world!
We don't need the clowns to make us smile!

"Hey, Abby," a six-month pregnant Catherine greeted as she walked inside Nick's office.

"Hey, Cathy," Abigail returned as she looked up from her microscope, "What's up?"

"The baby's kicking," Catherine announced with a proud smile.

"Ooh. I wanna feel!" Abigail squealed excitedly as she placed her hands on Catherine's swollen stomach, "Hey. Have you seen Nick? We have lunch in an hour."

"Oh! I saw him leave with Gil 5 minutes ago. Said something about reanalyzing the crime scene," Catherine lied.

"But we've analyzed the crime scene almost five times already!" Abigail stated before she saw through her lie, "Something's going on isn't it?"

"That's something for me to know and for you to find out," Catherine smirked as she walked away.

"Aw come on, Cathy! Can't you drop a hint?" Abigail pleaded.

"Nope! Sorry!" Catherine called back to her.

Oh! Through space and time! (Through space and time...) Always another show!
Wondering where I am! Lost without you...

"Hey. Thanks for helping me out, man," Nick thanked as he and Gil walked back into the lab holding a bouquet of a variety of flowers in many different colours.

"No problem. Besides, I was eagerly awaiting this moment since you two first met," Gil remarked.

"Whoa! Those flowers are amazing! Did you pick these out, Grissom? Nicky here wouldn't be able to be romantic if he tried!" Warrick cackled as he walked into the office.

"Hey! I can be romantic! I didn't pick these flowers on my own!" Nick defended.

"Yeah right, man! Name one romantic present you've given Abby!" Warrick challenged.

"How's this?" Nick smirked as he took a long velvet box out of his pocket.

It was a heart shaped locket; a 9 carot gold heart shaped locket. The words 'I Love You' were engraved elegently in perfect calligraphy on one side of the locket. On the other side, some gold formed the shape of a stem and leaves while there was some silver shaped in the formation of a rose. The locket was a breathtaking sight.

"I take it back," Warrick immediately said as he patted his friend on the shoulder.

"Nick, this is a beautiful locket. That must have cost a fortune!" Gil remarked.

"It will be worth every cent to be able to see Abby smile," Nick sighed dreamily.

"Ooh. Showtime, lover boy!" Warrick announced.

"I've already set up the lights and the romantic mood. So now it's up to Warrick and Catherine to bring her to the cafeteria," Gil reassured him.

"Alright. Operation Romantic is now in motion!" Warrick cheered excitedly before adding, "We need a better name for this."

Nick and Gil couldn't help but laugh at him.

And being apart ain't easy on this love affair!
Two strangers learn how to fall in love again!
And I get the joy of rediscovering you!
Oh girl, you stand by me!
I'm forever yours... Faithfully...

"What's up, guys?" Abigail asked as she saw Catherine and Warrick walk through the door.

"Wanna grab some lunch with us?" Warrick offered with a smile.

"But I'm having lunch with Nick," Abigail reminded them.

"He told us he'll meet you there when he's done," Catherine told her.

"Um...OK," Abigail agreed hestiently.

Catherine and Abigail walked away. Warrick stayed behind to send a page to Nick letting him know they were on their way. Once the page went through, he went to catch up with the girls. Everyone had gathered round the centre table with a pathway towards it down the middle. Once they had arrived, they started clapping and cheering.

Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh! Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh!
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh! Faithfully!

"What's going on?" Abigail asked nervously.

The cafeteria was decorated with streamers, fairy lights and love heart confetti. Even some rose petals were sprinkled here and there. Catherine went to stand with Gil and Captain Brass while Warrick guided Abigail to the table and helped her onto the table top. Once she was safe on the stable surface, he went to join his friends for the happy moment.

"This is going to be romantic," Catherine gushed.

"Everything's romantic to you," Warrick scoffed.

"I'm 6 months pregnant, Warrick. My hormones are crazy. Deal with it before I make you deal with it," Catherine retorted a little too sweetly.

That caused Warrick to shut up.

"Where's Nick?" Abigail questioned as she looked around.

"Right here, beautiful," a voice said.

Oh, oh, oh, oh! Faithfully! Oh, oh! I'm still yours!

Abigail faced the entrance and saw Nick standing there in the doorway with a smile on his face. She smiled while fiddling with the skirt of her white dress nervously. When he was standing near the table, she noticed that he had cleaned himself up a bit. His hair was combed back out of his face. He was wearing a nice pair of jeans, a nice button-up shirt and pretty nice shoes. He also had aftershave on! He climbed onto the table and stood in front of her.

Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh! Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh! Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh! I'm still yours!

"Abigail Mikaela Nelson, one month ago today was the day that I almost lost you and told you that I love you. That was also the day you told me you felt the same. Over the time that has passed, we have grown even closer and our relationship has become stronger than before. But I want to make this official," Nick started as he took out the long velvet case and handed it to her.

Confused, Abigail opened the case and the gold heart-shaped locket inside beamed at her underneath the flurecent lights of the cafeteria above them. She gasped and went to look at Nick. But she had to gaze down because he had knelt on one knee and taken her hand.

Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh! OH! I'm still yours!

"Abby, I love you so much. Will you be my girlfriend?" Nick asked.

"Yes!" Abigail sobbed.

Nick immediately pulled her to him and twirled her around while everyone cheered. When he set her down, he placed the locket on her neck, gave her the bouquet and kissed her joyfully in front of the still cheering crowd containing their collegues surrounding them. This was the perfect moment.

And so May 20 1995 was the day Nick Stokes and Abigail Nelson became boyfriend/girlfriend.

Faithfully...

Proposal – Love Story– Taylor Swift

We were both young when I first saw you.
I close my eyes and the flashback starts.
I'm standing there on a balcony in summer air...

"Hey, baby, you ready?" Nick asked as he did up his bow tie.

"Nearly!" he heard Abigail's muffled voice reply back.

It's been six months now since Nick and Abigail has officially become boyfriend/girlfriend. Everything couldn't be more perfect for these two than it is at this current moment in time. They rarely fought. And when they did, it was over something serious such as actions taken in the field. They weren't afraid to show their love to the world. And two months ago, they even bought a place together! (AN: The address is the same as it currently is in the series.) Everyone was amazed at how fast they were moving in the relationship. They were even expecting Nick to pop the question soon! Because, hello! Free bar! Not! Well...they were looking forward to the free bar but they were also looking forward to seeing them joined together in matrimony.

Anyways, now they were getting ready for the annual gala to rub elbows with donars who make their work possible. And it was something everyone was looking forward to...NOT! Even Captain Brass was looking for an excuse to get out of the gala. Unfortunately, it was either attend and kiss their butts or kiss their fundings and research bye-bye. And nobody wants that; especially Grissom, Abigail and Nick.

"Well, come on! We have to be at the Four Seasons in an hour!" Nick reminded her as he examined himself in the mirror.

"I'm coming!" Abigail shouted.

At that moment, she walked out of the bathroom and as soon as she did, Nick's jaw dropped the same way it did that first day he saw her in that elevator.

She looked absolutely stunning! She was wearing a red strapless dress that suited her figure perfectly. Diamontes covered the dress in a pattern underneath her bust and along the not-to-puffy skirt. On her feet were red high heels. Her long hair was done up in a fancy ponytail with bits of her fringe framing her elegent face. Around her neck was the locket Nick had given her. Her earrings were gold hearts dangling from a small chain. On her wrist was her tennis bracelet. Her makeup was light; only a little foundation, a bit of blush, pink eyeshadow and light lip gloss.

"Close your mouth. You'll let flies in," Abigail teased.

"You look wonderful," Nick complimented.

See the lights. See the party; the ballgowns.
See you make your way through the crowd and say hello.
Little did I know...

"Hi, guys," Nick and Abigail greeted their friends as they arrived.

"You guys look amazing!" Catherine gushed as she embraced them both in her navy blue halterneck dress.

"Hey, Nick. Wanna swap dates? You take Ziva and I take Abby?" Warrick asked jokingly.

"I'm not swapping my girl for anyone!" Nick decided.

"Nice one, Nick! I'm telling ya. If you wanted to swap Abby for Ziva, you'd be dead," Gil remarked with a laugh.

"Yes he would," Abigail agreed.

"Ouch. That hurt, baby," Nick joked as he placed his hand over his heart.

"Way to wound a guy's pride," Captain Brass commented.

"Hey, honey. You wanna dance before we get bored to death by donars?" Nick offered.

"Yes," Abigail immediately agreed.

Smiling, Nick took Abigail's hand and led her out to the dancefloor crowded by many other attendees. Abigail placed her free hand on Nick's shoulder while Nick placed his free hand on her waist. Together, they swayed to the soft beat of the music. Soon, their collegues joined them. Occasionally, they would steal kisses from one another.

That you were Romeo. You were throwing pebbles.
And my daddy said, "Stay away from Juliet."
And I was crying on the staircase.
Begging you, "Please don't go!"
And I said,

"Hey, Nick. You gonna ask her tonight?" Warrick questioned.

Nick and Abigail danced for about five songs on the dancefloor before they had to get tortured by donars. Thankfully, Nick, Warrick, Captain Brass and Gil have managed to escape them. As for Abigail and Catherine...well, they were still getting tortured by dozens of donars. All the boys felt so sorry for them.

"I couldn't ask for a more perfect moment than now," Nick responded with a smile.

"Do you have the ring?" Gil questioned.

"Yep. Just gotta wait for the right time," Nick nodded.

"Take her out to the poolside. There's a romantic atmosphere there; especially when there are fairy lights practically everywhere and a few handfuls of rose petals are sprinkled here and there," Captain Brass explaineded, earning weird looks from his friends, "A friend of mine works here! Oh! I talked to him about your plan, Nick. You have the all clear."

"Thanks," Nick thanked appreciatevely, "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to save my future wife from donars."

"Romeo, take me somewhere we can be alone.
I'll be waiting. All that's left to do is run.
You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess.
It's a love story. Baby, just say yes..."

"Bored yet?" Catherine asked Abigail as they relaxed by the refreshments table.

"How do you survive these things?" Abigail moaned.

"It takes practice. Attend a few more of these functions and dealing with creepy wealthy senior citizens will become second nature," Catherine reassured her.

"I'm amazed that Nick hasn't ripped his hair out yet or dragged me to the coat room for a quickie," Abigail giggled.

"How are things with you and Nick now that you're living together?" Catherine questioned.

"You should see him on bed. Oh my god," Abigail gushed.

"Where's Abby?" Nick demanded.

"Over there with Catherine," Warrick responded as he pointed to where their friends were talking and laughing, "You might wanna intervine because I heard from Grissom and Brass that they're talking about your sex life since you two have bought that house together."

Nick shoved his drink into his mate's hand and took off to the refreshment table like Speedy Gonzales with Warrick remaining where he is laughing his ass off with Gil and Brass at the sight. (AN: *falls to the ground laughing hysterically* I am so very sorry, everyone! I just had to add that in! *clears throat* BACK TO THE STORY, PEOPLE! *starts laughing hysterically again*)

So I sneak out to the garden to see you.
We keep quiet cause we're dead if they knew.
So close your eyes. Escape this town for a little while... Oh, oh!

"Donar at 5 o'clock," Catherine warned with a groan.

"Allow me to rescue my damsel in distress," Nick smirked as he pulled Abigail towards the dancefloor.

"Gee, guys. I love you too!" Catherine called after them sarcastically, "Hi, Fred."

"Thanks for that," Abigail sighed in relief.

"Hey. You're my girlfriend, baby. I'll always have your back," Nick reassured her with a kiss, "Come on. Let's dance."

Cause you were Romeo. I was the scarlett letter.
And my daddy said, "Stay away from Juliet!"
But you were everything to me!
I was begging you, "Please don't go!"
And I said,

"Gee, thanks, Nick, for leaving me to be tortured by Fred Cavingston for five hours," Catherine thanked sarcastically when she joined the gang.

"I wasn't gonna let Abby suffer! What kind of boyfriend would I be if I did?" Nick defended.

"That was low," Catherine commented.

"Believe me. He can go lower," Abigail winked.

"Oooh. Sounds naughty," Warrick howled.

"Warrick, get your mind out of the gutter," Abigail told him.

"Yes, ma'am," was Warrick's immediate response, causing the gang to laugh out loud.

"Hey, wanna go dancing alone?" Nick asked Abigail.

"OK," Abigail nodded.

With that being said, Nick took her hand and let her out of the ballroom towards the pool which shone underneath the fairy lights and the moonlight. There were also rose petals scattered.

"Romeo, take me somewhere we can be alone.
I'll be waiting. All that's left to do is run.
You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess.
It's a love story. Baby, just say yes."

"But we have no music. Out here we can barely hear the music inside," Abigail reminded him.

"Are you sure?" Nick smirked before he pointed to an orchestra which began playing a song.

"Our song!" Abigail gasped.

"Will you dance with me?" Nick asked offering his hand.

"Yes," Abigail nodded eagerly before placing her hand in his.

Together, they started waltzing around the pool carefully so they wouldn't slip and fell in.

"Romeo, save me. They're tryin' to tell me how to feel.
This love is difficult. But it's real!
Don't be afraid. We'll make it out of this mess.
It's a love story. Baby, just say yes."
Oh, oh-oh...

"Hey, Abby. Go along that pathway there. I'll be with you in a second," Nick promised her.

With a nod, Abigail followed the path. She took in the sight of the lucious trees and plant life covered in fairy lights. Underneath her feet, the path was covered by dozens of rose petals. Yep. There's definitely a romantic atmosphere in the air. But why the romance, you may ask. Well, the reason's pretty obvious. Don't ya think? Once she reached the end of the path she saw a gazebo with the same fairy lights and rose petals. At the centre was a glass table with a note. She picked it up and read it written in perfect calligraphy: 'Be my wife.' (AN: Boys, take notes here. Welcome to Romance 101, ladies and gentlemen. Please read on for your lesson.)

"I see you got my note," someone behind her remarked.

I got tired of waiting. Wondering if you'll ever be coming around.
My faith in you was fading. When I met you on the outskirts of town,
And I said,

Abigail turned around and saw Nick standing there with his hands behind his back and a smile plastered on his face. As she looked at him, around the gazebo and back at him, she began to realize who the mastermind behind this romantic gesture is. And she knew who to thank later and HOW to thank him later and that thought alone just sounded wrong.

"You did all this?" Abigail gasped.

"I wanted this moment to be perfect for you. After all, aren't moments like these meant to be romantic?" Nick laughed before stepping forward and kneeling in front of Abigail.

"Romeo, save me. I've been feeling so alone.
I keep waiting for you but you never come."
Is this in my head? I don't know what to think.
He knelt to the ground and pulled out a ring and said,

"Abby, you and I have been dating for six months now. I realize that might not be long enough. But I feel like I've known you forever. I love everything about you: your smile, your laugh, your looks, your personality; the list goes on. That very first day when you asked me to hold the elevator, I knew that I want to hold elevators for you everyday for the rest of our lives. You're the one for me," Nick confessed as he took out a navy blue velvet box and opened it to reveal a ring.

"Nick!" Abigail breathed.

The engagement ring was absolutely beautiful. About three-quarters of the ring was pure gold. The remaining quarter of the ring was silver. There were two love hearts – one silver and one gold – situated next to each other. Each had a diamond inside. Three small diamonds followed the hearts on each side.

"Abigail Mikaela Nelson, will you be my wife?" Nick asked as he slid the ring on her finger.

"Marry me, Juliet! You'll never have to be alone!
I love you and that's all I really know!
I talked to your dad! Go pick out a white dress!
It's a love story! Baby, just say...yes!"

"Yes," Abigail sobbed happily.

Smiling, Nick stood up and kissed her passionately to seal their engagement. Once he pulled away, he held her in his arms and twirled her around the gazebo as the cliche goes. Captain Brass, Gil, Catherine and Warrick happened to walk in on them as he popped the question and started clapping and cheering like mad as soon as Abigail said yes.

And so November 20 1994 was the day Nick Stokes and Abigail Nelson were engaged to be married. (AN: And that, ladies and gentlemen, marks the end of your lesson in Romance 101.)

Oh, oh-oh... Oh, oh, oh, oh...
Cause we were both young when I first saw you...

The Wedding – Written in the Stars – Westlife

Stay with me.
Don't fall asleep too soon.
The angels can wait for a moment...

"Abby, are you ready?" Catherine asked her best friend as she knocked on the door.

It's been six months now since Nick proposed to Abby. And now, the big day was finally here. They decided to elope at the Bellagia Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. It was a beautiful spring day; the perfect day for a wedding.

Catherine was Abigail's maid of honour with Abigail's roomates from college, Alex and Taylor, as her bridesmaids. They were wearing a blue halterneck dress that stopped just above their knees. There were two flowers inbetween their breasts where the halter straps joined together. The three of them were wearing silver high heels on their feet and had their hair pinned back in elegant buns.

"I'm coming out now," Abigail announced as she stepped out in her wedding dress.

Everyone's jaws dropped when she glowed before them. She was absolutely beautiful. She was wearing a strapless Vera Wang wedding dress. (AN: I know that didn't exist in 1995. But I like the dress, alright? It was the prettiest one in the collection I looked at!) There was a medium size bow tied at her right side. The skirt wasn't too puffy and flowed elegently down her body. Her hair was slightly curled with a flower wreath near her veil which had a smaller one attatched to cover her face. Her makeup was the same way it was the night Nick proposed.

"Wow," Alex beathed.

"What? Don't like it?" Abigail asked nervously.

"Are you kidding? You look amazing!" Catherine gushed.

"Nick is one lucky guy," Taylor remarked.

"I think your story is romantic! Especially with how he did everything!" Alex squealed.

"From sharing an elevator one day to sharing your lives forever. It's like a fairytale," Taylor sighed dreamily.

"If this love story isn't classified as one, I don't know what a love story is. Actually, who determines a love story has some serious issues if he doesn't deem this a love story," Catherine remarked.

Come real close.
Forget the world outside.
Tonight we're alone.
It's finally you and I.

"Hey, man. You ready?" Warrick asked as he knocked on the door.

"Well?" Nick asked as he stepped out of the bathroom in his wedding tuxedo.

For his bridal party, Nick had Warrick as his best man and Gil and Greg as his groomsmen. He was going to ask Captain Brass to be one of his groomsmen as well but he said that he was going to walk Abigail down the aisle since her father won't be able to. Both Nick and Abigail were thankful for the kind gesture.

"Excuse me for acting like a gay douche, but you look SMOKING!" Greg howled.

"I betcha you two will be having eye sex the entire wedding!" Warrick winked.

"Abigail is a lucky woman," Gil complimented.

"To be honest, I think I am the one who's lucky. A woman like Abigail is one in a million. I don't know what I would do if I hadn't met her," Nick sighed dreamly.

"Man, don't go girly on me," Warrick pleaded.

"Dude, he's getting married in 2 and a half hours!" Greg reminded him.

"I was joking around! But still, be a man, man! Guys don't go sissy!" Warrick repremended.

"They do on their wedding day and the day their children are born," Gil retorted, "Speaking of kids, have you two ever talked about little versions of you running around the lab?"

"Yeah. We have. We want one or two. I want a little girl. I would love to see a miniture Abby running around the lab...and to be able to shoot her boyfriends," Nick smirked.

"I have to live to see that day!" Warrick proclaimed. (Me: Too bad he doesn't. He could've shot Jason for Nick. Jason: I'm here, you know? Me: Dude, you're not even IN this story! Why are you here? Jason: Because I can. Me: I'm not even gonna argue with that.)

"Anyways, come on. Let's head to the gardens," Greg said.

With that, they left Warrick's house and drove out to the gardens. Only Nick left the house for the last time as a single man.

It wasn't meant to feel like this.
Not without you...

"OK. I have something old: the locket. Something new: the dress. Something borrowed: the wreath from my mum. Now I just need something blue," Abigail sighed. (Me: Remember the tradition? A bride has something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue...most of the time. Not all brides follow the tradition. Yeah. I know. I'm sad. But I can't help it! I'm a sucker for weddings! Jason: You should've seen her with Will and Kate's wedding. Me: Shut your pie hole, McCann! Jason: Whatever, Bu-. Me: Say my last name, I will kill you WITH your own gun. *Jason immediately shuts up* I don't get it. He's a fearless bomber and I can make him wither with that simple threat. Now LEGGO!)

"Leave that to me," Captain Brass said as he walked in and gave her a velvet box, "From your father."

Abigail opened the velvet box and saw inside a blue flower bracelet. She teared up when she saw it.

"He was going to give this to you on the eventuality of your wedding. Obviously, he didn't live for the moment that his little girl would marry her true love. So he asked me to do it," Captain Brass explained.

"Thank you so much!" Abigail cried as they embraced.

"It's time, Abby," Catherine cut in.

"You shall leave your house as Miss Nelson for the last time," Taylor sighed.

"When you return, you shall be Mrs Nick Stokes," Alex proclaimed.

"Excuse me. I'm gonna cry," Captain Brass whimpered. (AN: Couldn't help myself.)

"Aw, come here," Abigail sighed as they all shared a group hug.

"Now let's leave for the gardens," Taylor said.

"We have to get our best friend married!" Alex exclaimed.

"I want to see Nick when he sees you in this dress," Catherine smiled.

"Somehow, I think a dropped jaw will be involved," Abigail giggled.

They all walked out of the house and piled into the car. The car than took off for the gardens.

Cause when I look at my life,
How the pieces fall into place;
It just wouldn't rhyme without you...
When I see how my path,
Seem to end up before your face,
The state of my heart,
The place where we are,
Was written in the stars.

"Nick, nice to see you," the reverand greeted as they walked up.

"You too, father. Thank you for doing this," Nick thanked him.

"I was more than happy too. You were an alter boy in my services. Actually, I was MORE than THRILLED to fly all the way out to Las Vegas to watch my best alter boy marry the girl of his dreams. Think nothing of it," he responded.

"Pancho!," Bill Stokes nodded.

"Hey, Cisco," Nick said as he shook his hand and kissed his mother on the cheek, "Hi, mum."

"I am so proud of you," Jillian Stokes sobbed.

"That girl is one lucky woman," Bill commented, "And you're just as lucky you have found her, son. She's one in a million."

"I know," Nick agreed eagerly.

"Man. Do NOT cross a bridal party. You will die," Greg remarked as he walked up to them dusting off his tuxedo.

"You saw them?" Nick demanded excitedly.

"Just a heads up: Abigail looks smoking HAWT!" Warrick howled.

"Here come the bridesmaids," Gil sang quietly.

They turned around and saw Taylor walking down the aisle closely followed by Alex and then the maid of honour herself. When she was near the front, young Lindsay jumped out of her father's arms and stumbled over to her mummy. Everyone awed at the sight; even the priest. Smiling and laughing, Catherine picked up her young daughter and kissed her cheek before handing her back to Eddie and walking up the rest of the way. Then the music changed and the moment came. And...well, Abigail was right about what she said earlier. Nick's jaw DID drop when he saw her standing there. (AN: What is it with him and jawdrops? Oh wait. That's me.)

Don't be afraid.
I'll be right by your side.
Through the laughter and pain.
Together we're bound to fly.

Slowly, Abigail and Captain Brass ventured down the aisle towards the groom and the priest. Everyone watched her as if she was a masterpiece. Nick's and Abigail's eyes were locked on one another's the entire time. Both of them were smiling. When they finally reached the alter, Captain Brass removed the front veil and kissed her cheek before taking his seat.

"You look amazing," Nick whispered.

"You don't look bad yourself," Abigail murmured back. (AN: I got the script from buzzle. It was really romantic.)

Already, everyone's smiling and crying tears of joy. OK. It's understandable, but...COME ON!

"Dear family and friends, on behalf of Nicholas and Abigail, I welcome all of you for this marriage celebration. We are here today to encourage, celebrate and support the covenant these two people Nicholas and Abigail, beloved to us, now make and to share in the joy that Nicholas and Abigail are feeling as they pledge their love and commitment to each other. We rejoice and celebrate in the ways life has led them to each other and got them to the place where they now stand.

Nicholas, the woman who stands by your side is going to be your wife. She will look to you for comfort, for support, for love, for understanding, for encouragement, and for protection. You must never take her for granted, and always stand by her for good or ill," the priest read.

"Today in presence of God and family and friends, I join my life with yours. Wherever you go, I will go. Whatever you face, I will face. For good times or bad times, in happiness or sadness, come riches or poverty, I take you as my wife," Nick swore.

"Abigail, the man who stands by your side is going to be your husband. He will look to you for comfort, for support, for love, for understanding, for encouragement, and for protection. You must never take him for granted, and always stand by him for good or ill," the priest said.

"Today in presence of God and family and friends, I join my life with yours. Wherever you go, I will go. Whatever you face, I will face. For good times or bad times, in happiness or sadness, come riches or poverty, I take you as my husband," Abigail promised.

"In the Bible, Paul wrote beautifully about the power of love in his 1st book of letters to the Corinthians, Chapter 13," the priest started before reading.

I wasn't meant to love like this.
Not without you...

"If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.

And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

If I give away all I have, and if I deliver my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful, it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong; but rejoices in the right.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Love never ends; as for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will passs away. For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away.

When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I gave up childish ways. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but thenf ace to face. Now I know in part; then I shall understand fully, even as I have been fully understood.

So faith, hope, love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love."

"For God's sake, just get to the vows already!" the entire bridal party (exlcuding Nick and Abigail) shouted, causing everyone to laugh...except for the priest. (Me: Sorry, I was trying to be funny. Jason: And failing. Me: Shut up. Jason: She's the only one brave enough to badmouth me. Me: I won't be the only one soon... Now LEGGO!)

"Sorry about that, man," Nick apologised, "Please continue."

"Very well. Now it is time for the vows," the priest announced.

Cause when I look at my life,
How the pieces fall into place,
It just wouldn't rhyme without you...
When I see how my path,
Seem to end up before your face,
The state of my heart,
The place where we are,
Was written in the stars...

"Since it is your intention to marry, join your right hands and declare your consent," the priest requested as Abigail handed her flowers to Catherine and joined hands with Nick, "Do you take Abigail to be your lawful wedded wife to have and behold from this day on, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?"

"I do," Nick nodded.

"Do you take Nicholas to be your lawful wedded husband, to have and behold from this day on, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?" the priest asked Abigail.

"I do," Abigail agreed.

I made a few mistakes, yeah.
Like sometimes, we do.
Been through a lot of heartache.
But I made it back to you!

"The wedding ring symbolizes unity, a circle unbroken, without beginning or end. And today Nicholas and Abigail exchange these rings as confirmation of their vows to join their lives, to work at all times to create a life that is complete and unbroken, and to love each other without end. May the Lord bless these rings which you give to each other as the symbol of your love and fidelity.

Nicholas, take this ring and place it on finger, and state your pledge to her, repeating after me," the priest requested as Nick took the gold ring Warrick was offering him, "With this ring, I thee wed."

"With this ring, I thee wed," Nick repeated as he slid the ring on her finger.

"I offer you my hand," the priest continued.

"I offer you my hand," Nick recited.

"And my heart," the priest went on.

"And my heart," Nick repeated.

"As I know they will be safe with you," the priest continued.

"As I know they will be safe with you," Nick recited.

"All that I am I give to you," the priest went on.

"All that I am I give you," Nick repeated.

"And all that I have I share with you," the priest finished.

"And all that I have I share with you," Nick vowed.

Cause when I look at my life,
How the pieces fall into place,
It just wouldn't rhyme without you...
When I see how my path,
Seem to end up before your face,
The state of my heart,
The place where we are,
Was written in the stars!

"Abigail, take this ring and place it on finger, and state your pledge to him, repeating after me," the priest instructed as Abigail took the gold ring Catherine was offering her, "With this ring, I thee wed."

"With this ring, I thee wed," Abigail recited as she slid the ring on Nick's finger.

"I offer you my hand," the priest read.

"I offer you my hand," Abigail repeated.

"And my heart," the priest continued.

"And my heart," Abigail recited.

"As I know they will be safe with you," the priest went on.

"As I know they will be safe with you," Abigail repeated.

"All that I am I give to you," the priest continued.

"All that I am I give to you," Abigail recited.

"And all that I have I share with you," the priest finished.

"And all that I have I share with you," Abigail vowed.

Everyone was sobbing tears of joy and smiling as they watched these two soulmates say their vows. And now they knew what was to come next: the moment they've all been waiting for.

Cause when I look at my life,
How the pieces fall into place,
It just wouldn't rhyme without you...
When I see how my path,
Seem to end up before your face,
The state of my heart,
The place where we are,
Was written in the stars...

"Nicholas and Abigail, you have given and pledged your promises to each other and have declared your everlasting love by exchanging the rings. Your vows may have been spken in minutes, but your promises to each other will last until your last breath. As have pledged themselves to meet surrow and happiness as one family before God and this comminity of friends, I now pronounce them husband and wife. You may kiss your bride," the priest proclaimed.

They didn't need to be told twice. Nick took Abigail's face into his hands and kissed her with all he had. Everyone who was witnessing the wedding – including the few passer byers and workers – were clapping and cheering. Well, why wouldn't they? This is a dream come true. These two have had chemistry since that first meeting in the elevator almost two years ago. And now look at them. They stood there, pledged their vows and were pronounced man and wife. Like Catherine said moments before, this is a love story and those who don't agree don't know a love story when they see one.

Eventually, Nick and Abigail began to need oxygen more than each other so they hesitently broke the kiss. Besides, they could 'celebrate' their new marriage later.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you Mr and Mrs Stokes!" the priest presented.

While everyone threw rose petals at them, Nick and Abigail walked back down the aisle smiling and laughing. Catherine and Warrick followed the newlywed couple. They were followed by Alex and Gil who were later followed by Taylor and Greg. Nick's parents and Abigail's mother and stepfather eventually followed them. They were followed by the priest who was then followed by the massive number of family and friends come to witness this momentous occasion.

And so on May 20 1995 on a beautiful spring day, Nick and Abigail became Mr and Mrs Stokes. May 20 1995 was also the day that their lives changed forever and – according to them – officially began.

The state of my heart,
The place where we are,
Was written in the stars...

Exciting News – Mother's Prayer – Celine Dion

"I can't believe it!" Abigail whispered excitedly as she looked at the piece of paper before her.

It's been 14 months since Nick and Abigail have tied the knot. Things couldn't be happier. After the wedding, they took one month off for a honeymoon in the Bahamas (they wanted two weeks but Captain Brass' wedding present for them aside from walking Abigail down the aisle was a month-lonh vacation). And now, Abigail had some exciting news for her husband.

"What's gotten you so happy?" Nick asked with a smile as he walked into their office space.

"Nothing," Abigail sing-songed as she wrapped her arms around her neck and kissed him fully.

I pray you'll be my eyes...
And watch her where she goes...
And help her to be wise...
Help me to let go...

"What's this?" Nick questioned as he made a grab for the paper, only to have Abigail move it out of his reach.

"That's for me to know and for you to find out later," Abigail smirked.

"Aw come on, Abs!" Nick moaned.

"I promise I will tell you when the case is over," Abigail promised.

"Abigail Mikaela Stokes," Nick sighed.

"Nice try, Nicky," Abigail giggled before turning to the fibre samples in the microscope.

Every mother's prayer...
Every child knows...

It took two hours but they solved the rape and murder of 13-year-old Isabella White. Believe it or not, it was her 16-year-old brother. He had been developing feelings for her since he was 13. When he confessed his undying devotion to her, she declined him. In a fit of rage, he pinned her to the bed and took her virginity and crushed her to death. The case affected Nick and Abigail. Obviously, they were planning to have kids in the future. The thought of someone doing that to his own sister was just heartbreaking...

"OK. I changed my mind about kids. After this case, I now only want one child," Nick proclaimed as he collapsed on the couch in the office space next to his wife.

"I can't believe he did that to her. She was his sister," Abigail sighed.

"I'm telling you. If we have a daughter and someone hurt her that way, I would shoot him myself," Nick swore.

Lead her to a place...
Guide her with your grace...
To a place where she'll be safe...

"OK. We solved the case. Now I can tell you my little secret," Abigail announced.

"Please tell me you're not sick," Nick pleaded as he turned to face her.

"Well...on our aniversary two months ago, we ordered our aniversary present to each other," Abigail started, "But it's gonna take a little while to arrive."

"How long?" Nick asked.

"7 months," Abigail replied.

"Mind telling me what it is?" Nick quizzed.

"How do you feel about becoming a father?" Abigail returned.

"No way!" Nick gasped as it finally hit him.

I pray she finds your light...
And holds it in her heart...
As darkness falls each night...
Remind her where you are...

"Way," Abigail smiled.

"Are you serious?" Nick demanded excitedly as he grabbed her hand.

"Yes," Abigail nodded.

"Abby, that's amazing!" Nick yelled as he scooped his wife in his arms and twirled her around.

"Nick, slow down!" Abigail pleaded, "I'm still queezy from morning sickness!"

"Sorry," Nick apologised as he set her onto her feet before kneeling down and kissing her stomach, "A baby. Can you believe it? I love you."

"I love you too," Abigail responded as she ran her fingers through his short brown hair while he hugged her middle and rested his head against her stomach.

Every mother's prayer...
Every child knows...

"Excuse me a minute," Nick suddenly said as he stood upright with a big smile on his face.

"Where are you going?" Abigail asked as he walked out of the office.

"WHOO HOO! I'M GONNA BE A DAD!" Nick cried in joy as he ran down the hall.

"Why is Nick running up and down the halls screaming?" Gil demanded with a smile.

"Because we're having a baby," Abigail answered.

Need to find a place...
Guide her to a place...
Give her faith so she'll be safe...

"What?" Catherine gasped.

"No way!" Warrick shouted.

"That's amazing!" Captain Brass commented.

"Anyone got something for my throat?" Nick's hoarse voice asked, causing everyone to laugh.

"Congradulations, you guys," Gil congradulated as he past Nick a cough lolly.

"You guys will be amazing parents," Catherine promised.

"That little guy's gonna be lucky to have you," Warrick remarked.

"Now remember, Warrick, it can be a girl," Captain Brass reminded him.

"Thanks, you guys," Nick and Abigail thanked.

And so July 20 1996 was the day they began producing a family of their own.

Lead her to a place...
Guide her with your grace...
To a place where she'll be safe...

Bittersweet Moment – Don't Take the Girl – Tim McGraw

Johnny's daddy was taking him fishin'
When he was eight years old.
A little girl came through the front gate holdin' a fishing pole.

"Hey there, Nick," Warrick greeted as he walked into the room.

"Hey, man," Nick returned.

It's now been seven months since Nick and Abigail announced the pregnancy. So far, everything was going to plan. No complications...well, except that Nick and Abigail can't agree on a middle name for their little girl. And YES. Unlike the majority of first-time parents, they decided to ruin the joy and find out the sex of the baby beforehand. They found out they were having a little girl. When they found out, Nick was crying tears of joy...which encouraged teasing from Warrick. This is a dream come true for him. He is married to the girl of his dreams and now they are about to have a beautiful baby daughter. Could life get better than this for him?

"How's your wife?" Warrick asked.

"She's good. She's out with Catherine getting some baby clothes," Nick explained.

"You're about the only couple who left clothe shopping till right before the baby's due. You know that, right?" Warrick laughed.

"I want my little girl to look adorable in the recent styles!" Nick defended.

His dad looked down and smiled.
Said, "We can't leave her behind.
Son, I know you don't want her to go, but someday you'll change your mind."

"Hey. Do you guys know when the girls are going to be back?" Gil asked as he and Captain Brass walked in.

"They said after the lunch break ended. Why?" Nick responded.

"There's been a car accident on the road. They could be stuck in traffic," Captain Brass warned.

"Thanks for letting me know," Nick thanked before his cell phone rang, "Excuse me. *answers phone* Nick Stokes speaking. ...Abby? What happened? ...What? Are they alright? ...Oh my God. What hospital? ...OK. I'm on my way."

"What's wrong?" Warrick asked worriedly as he saw his best friend hang up close to tears.

"Abby and Catherine were in that car accident. They say that Abby and the baby might not make it," Nick explained as he grabbed his stuff.

"Oh my God," Gil mumbled.

"Nick, I'll drive. You're emotionally distraught and I don't want you in hospital too," Captain Brass said as he yanked the keys from Nick's hand, "Don't worry. I'll get us there fast."

And Johnny said, "Take Jimmy Johnson, take Tommy Thompson, take my best friend Bo.
Take anybody that you want as long as she don't go.
Take any boy in the world.
Daddy, please don't take the girl."

"Catherine," Gil sighed in relief as they all ran into the hospital and embraced her, being gentle of her broken arm.

"What happened?" Captain Brass demanded.

"We were driving back to the lab and a car ran the red light. The truck driver was drunk," Catherine explained shakely.

"What about Abby? Please tell me she's OK," Nick pleaded.

"Nick, the car hit the passenger side. Abby was sitting there. Her injuries are pretty bad," Catherine sighed.

"What about the baby?" Warrick questioned.

"They won't tell me anything about her," Catherine responded.

Same old boy, same sweet girl ten years down the road.
He held her tight and kissed her lips in front of the picture show.

"Abigail Stokes. She was brought here because of a car accident," Nick said to the receptionist.

"Relation?" the receptionist asked plainly.

"I'm her husband. I'm also listed as her emergency contact and I hold her power of attorney," Nick explained whilst trying to keep his frustration under control.

"She's still in the emergency room. I can't let anyon-."

She didn't get to finish. Nick sprinted through those big white doors as if his life depended on it. Well, it sort of did. His heavily pregnant wife was just in a car accident and he was close to losing both her and his unborn daughter. And nothing was going to stand between him and his family.

Stranger came and pulled a gun.
Grabbed her by the arm. Said,
"If you do what I tell you to, there won't be any harm."

"Sir, I can't let you inside," the doctor informed him.

"That's my wife in there!" Nick boomed.

"I realize that, sir. But I have protocal to follow," the doctor said to him calmly.

"Captain Brass. Las Vegas Police Department," Captain Brass butted in as he flashed his badge, "Nick Stokes works for me in Criminalistics along with his wife, Abigail Stokes. If he wants to be in there with her, let him."

"But, sir-," the doctor began to object.

"TO DAMN WITH PROTOCAL!" Warrick snapped as he and Gil appeared next to Captain Brass.

"You let me in there to see my wife or I will shoot your brains out!" Nick threatened as he shoved him against the wall.

"And I will be more than happy to help," Gil piped in a little too happily.

"Alright," the doctor finally relented.

And Johnny said, "Take my money, take my wallet; take my credit cards.
Here's the watch that my grandpa gave me.
Here's the key to my car.
Mister, give it a whirl.
But please don't take the girl."

"Abby!" Nick sighed as he moved towards his blood-stained wife.

"Nick," Abigail's fear-filled voice responded.

"Are you OK?" Nick asked worriedly.

"Sir, are you her family?" Doctor Brian asked him.

"I'm her husband," Nick nodded, "What's wrong with my wife?"

"Sir, let's talk over here," Doctor Brain said as he pointed to the corner.

"I'll be right back, baby," Nick promised as he kissed her quickly before going with the doctor.

"Mr Stokes, the injuries are pretty serious. Ruptured spleen, fractured pelvis, cracked ribs, internal bleeding; the list goes on," Doctor Brain explained.

"What about the baby? Abby's almost nine months pregnant," Nick informed him.

"The baby's going into foetal distress. To make matters worse, Mrs Stokes went into labour at the scene. And with her fractured pelvis, she can't give birth naturally. We have to perform an emergency caeserean," Doctor Brain announced.

"What are their chances?" Nick questioned.

"If we don't operate soon, not very good," Doctor Brain sighed, "We would have started sooner. But you hold her power of attorney so we have to wait for your approval."

Nick took a glance at his pregnant wife. He noticed her scared facial expression. And honestly, he was scared to. He was scared he was going to lose her and the baby. And if this surgery gave them a chance...well, he'd be a fool not to agree.

"Alright. But I want to be in there with her," Nick agreed.

"Just come with me, sir. I need you to sign some forms and you need to put on some scrubs," Doctor Brain said.

Same old boy, same sweet girl five years down the road.
There's going to be a little one and she says it's time to go.

Nick signed the necessary forms and told everyone what was going on before washing his hands and changing into scrubs.

"What's going on?" Abigail asked.

"You're going into surgery. They're gonna perform an emergency caeserean to save the baby and then they're gonna operate on your injuries," Nick explained.

"Nick, it might not be too late for the baby. But it is for me," Abigail breathed.

Nick immediately knew what she was saying. And he didn't like it. He started shaking his head as tears began leaking from his eyes.

"No. No," Nick denied, "Don't say that, Abby. You're not gonna die. You're gonna have this surgery. You're going to live. And you're going to be the mother to our baby."

"Don't deny the reality," Abigail repremended him.

"It's time for the surgery," Doctor Brain announced.

"I love you," Nick murmured as he grasped her hand.

"I love you too," Abigail whispered.

Then Abigail was wheeled to the operating room after she was prepared for surgery. Nick held her hand the entire way.

Doctor says the baby's fine but you'll have to leave.
'Cause his momma's fading fast.
And Johnny hit his knees and there he prayed...

Inside the opearating room, Nick would glance from Abigail's face to where the action was going on around her swollen stomach. He would stroke her hair and whisper comforting words. Not once did he let go of her hand. Both of them were awaiting the moment their daughter would be born. It took a little while. But eventually, they heard a cry.

"Congradulations. It's a little girl. And she's healthy," Doctor Brain announced.

"Did you hear that? She's healthy," Nick repeated to Abigail whilst smiling.

She smiled back at him weakly. Nick took a glance at the little cot where they were cleaning and clearing the fluid from the lungs of his screaming newborn daughter. He turned back to his wife. It was then he noticed how pale she was and how loose her grip on his hand was.

"Abby?" Nick said gently.

"I love you, Nick," she whispered before her eyes closed and she flat-lined.

"ABBY!" Nick screamed.

"We're losing her!" one of the doctors cried.

"Sir, you have to leave," one of the nurses said to him.

"I'm not living my wife and daughter," Nick decided.

"We will take good care of your wife and baby, sir. We promise you," Doctor Brian promised as the operating thetre nurse escorted Nick out of the room.

Once he was outside, he leaned against the wall and just prayed that his wife and daughter would be OK. He didn't even bother heading out to the waiting room where Gil, Warrick, Captain Brass, Catherine and all their friends and family were waiting for news.

Take the very breath you gave me.
Take the heart from my chest.
I'll gladly take her place if you'll let me.
Make this my last request.
Take me out of this world.
God, please don't take the girl...

"Mr Stokes?" Doctor Brain's voice snapped him out of his thoughts.

"How are they?" Nick asked worriedly.

"I'm sorry, sir. We tried everything. But we couldn't revive your wife," Doctor Brain apologised.

Nick felt like the world was crashing around him. His wife was dead. He lost the girl of his dreams. He slouched against the wall with tears spilling from his eyes.

"What about my daughter?" Nick demanded with his voice breaking.

"She's perfectly healthy. It's a miracle, to be honest. It's amazing she survived a tragic accident like that," Doctor Brian explained to him.

"I'll come see her in a minute. I have to tell the others," Nick said as he walked away.

"How is she?" Catherine questioned worriedly.

"She's gone," Nick mumbled.

"Oh my God!" Tora sobbed.

"What about the baby?" Bill asked.

"A healthy baby girl," Nick announced with a sad smile.

"We'll go let everyone else know. Spend some time with your newborn daughter. Hold her for the first time," Gil ushered.

With a sigh, Nick tracked down Doctor Brian and had him take him to his newborn daughter. He took him to the nursary and requested for Girl Stokes. The nurse nodded and went to fetch his daughter.

"Now, Mr Stokes, I have delivered thousands of babies in my career; natural and caeserean. However, not many of them were miracles and just as beautiful as your daughter," Doctor Brian complimented.

"Here she is," the nurse announced as she walked up to them with a pink bundle.

Gently, Nick took his baby girl from the nurse's arms into his own. He stared down fully at his daughter for the first time since she was brought into the world. She was an exact replica of Abigail, his now late wife. But the small amount of hair on the top of her head was different. Her hair wasn't as light as Abigail's but wasn't as dark as Nick's either. It was inbetween; a honey brown. As soon as she was in her father's arms, her eyes opened and stared at him. Her small hands reached up to him. Nick held out his finger and she held it with her tiny hands. Tears of joy leaked from his eyes. He wondered how he could create something as small, as fragile and as perfect as his baby girl. He managed to find some light in this moment of sadness. His wife was tragically killed and he was given a beautiful daughter.

"Hi, baby girl," Nick whispered tearfully.

"Have you thought of a name?" the nurse asked him.

Nick looked at the nurse with the same smile. He knew what he was going to name her. He would even use the name his wife wanted.

"Kadelin Taylor Stokes," Nick spoke proudly.

"I'll go get the forms for the birth certificate," the nurse nodded before leaving.

"Would you like a moment alone?" Doctor Brian asked before leaving at Nick's nod.

"Hi, Kady. I'm your daddy. I promise I will take care of you, always be there for you and make sure nobody hurts you. I love you so much. You mean the world to me. Welcome to the world Kadelin Taylor Stokes," Nick murmured to his little girl.

And so February 19 1997 was the day Nick Stokes lost his wife. It was also the day that his daughter was born.

Johnny's daddy
Was taking him fishin'
When he was eight years old...

The Funeral – My Immortal – Evanescence

I'm so tired of being here...
Suppressed by all my childish fears...
And if you have to leave,
I wish that you would just leave.
'Cause your presence still lingers here.
And it won't leave me alone...

Slowly, Nick struggled to open his eyes. He didn't want to. Yet he knew he had to. It has been five days now since the car accident also known as the day Abigail died and the day his little girl was born. And today was the day of the funeral. And honestly, he was dreading it. He and Abigail had only been married for almost two years before she died. This wasn't meant to happen. They were meant to spend 30, 40, 50 years together! They were meant to watch Kadelin and any other sons and daughters they would have had grow to become marvelous people. Both of them were meant to be there to see them get married and have families of their own and make their own accomplishes. He wasn't meant to do this on his own.

These wounds won't seem to heal...
This pain is just too real...
There's just too much that time cannot be erase.

"Hey, baby girl," Nick greeted as he scooped daughter into his arms, "Whew. Someone needs a diper change."

Kady just giggled as her father laid her on the changing table and cleaned her before placing a new diper on her before dressing her. She was wearing a white dress and shoes with a black little jumper and a beenie since it is still winter. Once she was done, he kissed her head before placing her on the table once again so he could shower and change himself. He got changed into an all-black suit; the same suit he wore to the funeral for Abigail's father aka the day they started calling each other friend. With a sigh, he headed to the kitchen and prepared Kady's formula.

Since he was allowed to bring his newborn daughter home two days ago, he found a new routine he could follow until his personal leave from work was up. He would get up, tend to his daughter, shower, get dressed and feed her. He would also visit some family and friends to plan the funeral. After his leave was up, he would return to work. He talked to Captain Brass and he said that he could bring his young daughter to work and have someone look after her while he would go out into the field if need be. Even gave him a raise so he could support a baby.

"Hey. You hungry?" Nick asked rhetorically as he sat in the rocking chair with Kady in his arm and ged her the bottle before laughing, "Whoa. Slow down there, butterfly. There's plenty in there."

Butterfly was something Nick started calling the baby when they found out it was a girl. One day, Nick was leaning close to her stomach and said he saw a butterfly. As soon as he said butterfly, the baby started kicking and...well, the nickname kinda stuck. It was his personal nickname for his beautiful daughter. The nursary even was decorated in a butterfly theme. The walls were lavendar and green with chocolate brown furniture. There was a butterfly chandelier above them and a butterfly rug and little butterflies stuck on the wall courtesy of Gil and Warrick.

"Ready to go, butterfly?" Nick questioned as he hoisted her over his shoulder and burped her.

When you cried, I'd wipe away all of your tears.
When you'd scream, I'd fight away all of your fears.
And I held your hand through all of these years.
But you still have all of me...

"Hey, Nick," Warrick greeted as Nick walked up to them with Kady in his arms, "And how's my favourite goddaughter?"

"How are you coping?" Catherine asked worriedly.

"It's been hard. But thankfully I have a beautiful baby girl to get me through it," Nick responded as he kissed his daughter's head.

"Are you sure you only need the weekend?" Captain Brass questioned, "Because if you want to, you can take longer to get accustomed to having a newborn baby."

"I'll be fine," Nick reassured him as he bounced his daughter a little in his arms.

You used to captivate me by your resignating light.
Now I'm bound by the life you left behind.
Your face; it haunts my once pleasant dreams.
Your voice; it chased away all the sanity in me.

The funeral went on for what felt like hours. Bible readings, songs, slideshows, presentations by Abigail's relatives; you name it. Now it was time for the eulogy. And guess who had the honour of reading it. I'll give you a tip: it's Abigail's widower and the father of her daughter she will never meet. With a sad sigh, he handed Kady to Brass and walked up to the podium to deliver his eulogy. (AN: First try at writing a eulogy speech. I got inspired by reading one online.)

These wounds won't seem to heal.
This pain is just too real.
There's just too much that time cannot erase.

"Abigail Mikaela Nelson, or as she later came to be known as, Abigail Mikaela Stokes. She was my spirit, my inspiration and my strength. It was four years ago when I was entering an elevator in the parking lot at the Las Vegas Police Department for another day at the CSI Crime Lab and you asked me to hold the elevatour for you. Later, I learned that you were my intern. We began to grow closer and eventually, we fell in love. When you got shot while making an arrest, I thought I was going to lose you before I could even tell you that I loved you. I wanted a life with you. I wanted a family with you. You were an angel who fell from the heavens to be with me.

Abigail, your name sounds like chime bells whenever someone says it in my ears. I couldn't get you off my mind. And even the smallest thing reminded me of you.

Five days ago, Abigail was heavily pregnant with our daughter, Kadelin. She was on the way back to the crime lab with our friend and collegue when they were hit head-on by a drunk driver. Our friend escaped with a broken arm, a few broken ribs, a concussion and a few cuts and bruises. Abigail's injuries were severe. She knew she was going to die from these injuries. She was tough. She was brave. She faced her final moments here with determination I will never forget. She fought to live long enough to give her unborn daughter a fighting chance. Sadly, she died not long after our daughter was born.

Abigail was an amazing woman. She faced danger everyday entering the field for her line of work. She never complained about the long hours. She never complained about the hard work. She never complained about the fact that a certain someone was underpaying her with the amount of overtime she put in. She was always there to help us. The amount of work she still had to complete didn't matter to her. She was always smiling, always pitching in brilliant ideas and made her way into the hearts, souls and minds of everyone here today; especially me. She left behind loads of memories that I will hold onto forever.

The entire time I knew her, I would buy her gifts for no reason. Flowers, jewelry, chocolates; you name it. I always either gave it to her on one of our dates or in front of everyone at the lab. She would thank me in every way she knew how; and I mean EVERY way. I wanted her to be happy. And just like every guy who is with the girl of his dreams, I wanted to give her the world. However, I always felt like I wasn't spending enough time with her although we saw each other everyday. I always felt like I was blowing her off for something unimportant. I felt like I wasn't there for her enough. I didn't plan on the fact that she would be in God's kingdom less than two years into our marriage and never being able to see her little girl grow up," Nick began crying. But he managed to continue.

When you cried, I'd wipe away all of your tears.
When you screamed, I'd fight away all of your fears.
And I held your hand through all these years.
But you still have all of me...

"Whenever I had to go out into the field without her to investigate a crime scene, she was always scared that something bad would happen and that she would lose me. I felt every bit of sadness she felt. I felt her heartache. I felt every fear running through her. And I felt her relief when I returned safely. I couldn't be without her. Abigail served me well and at the same time helped me play a few jokes on our co-workers.

Abigail made me who I am today. She changed me for the better. None of us would be able to explain why she had to leave us so soon. All I know is that everything happens for a reason. The only thing I'm holding onto is the Bible teaching that God causes all things to work together and causes all good to those who love God. Abigail's death had a reason. There was a reason why she had to leave us and Kady behind.

Today we mourn for Abigail's loss. However, we rejoice for her new life alongside the Holy Spirit. As much as it pains me, I have to say goodbye to my beloved Abigail. We will be together again when the time is right. I will always love you," Nick vowed as he placed a red rose on her grave.

I've tried so hard to tell myself that you're gone!
But though you're still with me, I've been alone all along!

Eventually, the funeral service came to a close and everyone had to head over to the cemetary to bury the caskett. Nick never let go of his daughter the entire time. He watched with tears in his eyes as they lowered his wife into the ground and placed the dirt on her once more. Even after everyone left, Nick was still there with his daughter.

"Hey, baby. I still can't believe that you're not going to be by my side anymore. I still can't believe that you will never be my wife again, that you will never see your daughter grow; that I won't have my partner-in-crime. I meant what I said to you at the service, Abby. I will always love you. I promise I will look after our daughter, that I will always be there for her and that I will make sure that nothing will ever happen to her," Nick sobbed, "We have to head home. Someone needs her nap. We will come visit again when we can. I love you, Abigail." He turned to his daughter and kissed her head, "Come on, butterfly. Let's go home."

With that, Nick and Kady left the cemetary without looking back once. It was too heartbreaking to.

And so February 24 1997 was the day that Nick Stokes buried his wife long before her time.

When you cried, I'd wipe away all your tears.
When you screamed, I'd fight away all your fears.
And I held your hand for all these years!
But you still have all of me...
Me...
Me...

A Moment – It Won't Be Like This For Long – Darius Rucker

He didn't have to wake up.
He'd been up all night.
Lay'n there in bed listen'n
To his newborn baby cry.
He makes a pot of coffee.
He splashes water on his face.
His wife gives him a kiss and says
It gonna be OK.

Nick awoke to the sound of his daughter's cries. It was the night after Abigail's funeral and the night before his leave would be over and he would have to begin juggling work and raising his Kady as a single parent. Nick was surprised by the sound of Kady's cries. Normally, she was good and slept through the night and was only awake when it was time for him to feed her. He didn't understand why she was suddenly wailing in the middle of the night. Nonetheless, he abandoned the warm embrace of his bed covers and trudged to the nursery across the hall.

"Hey, butterfly. What's wrong? What's wrong?" Nick asked as he scooped his daughter in his arms and gently rocked her, "What's wrong, Kady?" He glanced at the clock and saw that it was 2:30 in the morning, "Ah. I see. You're hungry."

It won't be like this for long.
One day soon we'll look back laugh'n
At the week we brought her home.
This phase is gonna fly by.
So baby, just hold on.
It won't be like this for long.

With Kady still in his arms, Nick walked to the kitchen and prepared her formula. After making it and checking if it was too hot for her, he sat on the recliner and fed his daughter. She sucked in it greedly, making Nick laugh. She definitely was his daughter. Within a half-hour, she was done and he held her over his shoulder as he burped her. Then she started whimpering again. Wondering what's wrong, he smelt near her butt and pulled a face at the aroma that greeted him.

"Whew. Butterfly, you need a diper change!" Nick remarked as his eyes watered a little.

Kady just giggled in response and gave him a toothless smile. (Remember, she's 6 days old. She doesn't have teeth.) Yep. She's cheeky just like him and her mother. He carried her back to her nursery and unbuttoned her pajamas. He grabbed the wipes, the powder and a fresh diper and changed his daughter. Once she was dressed, he tucked his daughter in. He bent down and kissed her head. Just as he went to leave, she started sobbing again.

Four years later, 'bout four thirty,
She's crawling in their bed.
And when he drops her off at preschool,
She's clinging to his leg.
The teacher peels her arm off him.
He says, "What can I do?"
She says, "Now don't you worry.
This will only last a week or two."

Nick sighed as he picked her up once again. Immediately, she stopped crying and started reaching her little hands to her father. That was when he realised what was wrong with her. Sure, she needed her bottle and a diper change. But most importantly, she didn't want to be alone. And honestly, neither could Nick. He still couldn't accept the fact that a day ago, he had buried his wife long before her time. He still couldn't accept the fact that his beautiful baby daughter will grow up without her mother. Nick was saddened at the opportunities in the future Abigail would miss. Her first steps, first word, first day at school, graduations, boyfriends, weddings, children; she would miss a lot of her life.

It won't be like this for long.
One day soon we'll drop her off.
And she won't even know you're gone.
This phase is gonna fly by.
If you can just hold on,
It won't be like this for long.

"You wanna sleep with daddy tonight?" Nick questioned his daughter, only to have her giggle and reach up to him again, "I'll take that as a yes."

He walked out of the nursery and turned out the light. He was thankful he left the lamp on by his bedside. He didn't want to trip over any stray objects on the floor with Kady in his arms. He laid on the bed and tucked himself in with his daughter nestled comfortably on his chest. He reached to turn out the light, but Kady was cooing and pointing at a picture. He turned to what he was pointing at and saw that it was a photo of him and his dead wife not long after they found out about her pregnancy with Kady.

"Yes, honey. That's your mummy," Nick whispered to her, "I'm telling you, Kady. She was beautiful, strong, determined, smart and always so happy. She would always find a way to make you smile without even trying."

One day soon she'll be a teenager.
And at times you'll think she hates him.
Then he'll walk her down the aisle.
And he'll raise her vail.
And the truth is that he don't mind.
As he kisses her goodnight,
And she says her prayers.
He lays down there beside her,
Till her eyes are finally closed.
And just watch'n her; it breaks his heart.
Cause he already knows...

"She would love you so much, butterfly. You would be the light in her eyes. You're the best thing that has happened to me, Kadelin. And I will never let you go. Normally, people tell you to never say never. But I would break the rules a million times to make sure you are safe and still with me. I love you so much," Nick whispered tearfully as he kissed her head. (Me: See what I did there? Jason: No. What did you do there? Me: There's some of Justin Bieber's song titles in there! And you're potrayed by Justin Bieber! Jason: Really? Which songs? Me: Never Let You Go and Never Say Never. Jason: You're sad. You know that? Me: That's what my friends and my parents say to me. LEGGO!)

Kady just gripped his shirt in her small hands and giggled as if to say, 'I love you too, daddy.' Nick smiled. He wanted this moment to last forever. But he knew it wouldn't. He knew the time would pass before he could even blink. He would be smiling as she was awarded her high school diploma. He would be crying tears of joy as he watched his daughter marry her true love. He would be laughing and smiling with his grandkids and then he would watch her raise her own family from his place in the clouds beside his wife.

"Goodnight, Kadelin," Nick murmured as he turned out the light and slept with his daughter on his chest.

And so February 25 1997 was the day Nick swore he would never let his daughter go.

It won't be like this for long.
One day soon that little girl is gonna be,
All grown up and gone.
Yeah, this phase is gonna fly by.
He's try'n to hold on.
It won't be like this for long.

It won't be like this for long...

And yes, ladies and gentlemen, that is the end of the information chapter for CSI: Season 1 Rewritten. Yes, everyone! I've decided to rewrite all of season 1 so whenever I mention previous moments, you can understand them better. I do this for you guys. Remember that. If you want to give me moments you want to be seen, go ahead and they will be seen. And...interesting fact: this took up 57 pages on Microsoft Word. New personal record! WHOO! Whoops. Just went on page 58.

BYE AND PLEASE LEAVE ME A REVIEW!