Author's Note #1: I am not good at writing criminal themed stories and I am not familiar with locations in NY. I'm more of a character driven oriented writer than anything else so I ask thatyou be gentle when it comes to the lack of detail I may have.

Author's Note #2: Definition of 'Perihelion' as told by Merriem-Webster Dictionary:

"the point in the path of a celestial body (as a planet) that is nearest to the sun"

Prologue

"No," Alexis said in her sleep as she tossed and turned. "No, don't!"

There remained silence for a moment.

"No!" Alexis screamed as she shot up from her bed.

"Alexis," Beckett called out, entering Alexis' bedroom.

Neither of them spoke as Alexis held on to Beckett. She had never done this before. Tears streamed down Alexis' face. For the past two days Alexis had done her best to be strong for her family but now she was letting her guard down. Beckett was glad the young woman was doing that. It wasn't easy to keep in all of the heavy emotions, having known from own personal experience.

She whispered smooth accolades.

"You're going to be okay Alexis. You're going to be okay."

Alexis moved back and Kate wiped away her tears.

"How do you know?" Alexi asked.

Though Beckett knew Alexis knew the truth about her own past, she knew that right now the girl needed to hear words of comfort outloud.

Beckett took hold of Alexis' hand and squeezed it as she looked at her. "Because I know you: You're strong and determined. You've been through a lot and you've strived. I know you can get through this too. And you're not alone here."

Alexis tightened her grip.

"Is this how it was like for you?"

"More or less. I just wish you didn't have to. I wish there was something more I could have done. I wish I could fix this for you somehow."

Alexis nodded. "I'm just glad you're here Detective Beckett."

Beckett smiled. "How about I make you some breakfast?"

Alexis lifted a shoulder and smiled, "S'more-lette's?"

Beckett smiled again, "S'more-lettes it is then."

Alexis smiled and hugged Beckett tightly again.

"Thank you," she said to the detective.

"Anytime," Beckett answered back.

From the doorway Martha let out a somber smile.