© Fan Fiction By Linda A. Brown
Started 08/15/2001
Last Edited 09/27/2002 @ 05:32 AM PST
Finished 08/22/2001 @ 11:30 PM CST

CHAPTER 2
A Night On The Town
It's Time To Move

CHAPTER 3
A Quiet Dinner At Home
A Bump In The Night

CHAPTER 4
It's Time To Go Home

IF I HAD TO GIVE THIS STORY A RATING IT WOULD BE: R OR WORSE

Nash and Joe are in the Cuda on their way back to the SIU.
Joe: You are awfully quiet this morning, bubba. What's up?
Nash: Oh, nothing. Just thinking about all the different cases we have worked on this year. It has been a busy one.
Joe: Ah...it's that time again, huh?
Nash: And what time would that be, bubba?
Joe: End of the year report time. It's the first week of the new year. Time for you to start working on that report for last year.
Nash (laughing): Yeah, it's that time of year again.
They pull into the parking lot at the SIU, get out and walk inside. Nash makes it to his desk without anyone stopping him, glances through his messages and heads back to the coffee pot. Harvey is there getting himself a cup of coffee.
Harvey: Morning boss!
Nash: Just morning? It isn't good?
Harvey (laughing): Of course it is, for me. I just didn't know about you.
Nash (laughs): Yeah it's good, Harv. I made it to my desk without 20 different people stopping me with questions.
Harvey: Glad to hear it, Nashman...glad to hear it!
Harvey walks off with his coffee and Nash takes his coffee back to his desk. He is returning phone calls when he sees his old friend the chief come into the SIU. Nash gets off the phone and stands up.
Nash: Chief, to what do we owe this honor?
Chief: Morning Nash. How you doin'?
Nash: Good, and you?
Chief: Good, but I need a favor.
Nash (laughs): Should have known, you coming down here to the trenches and all.
Chief (laughs): We've known each other that long, huh?
Nash: Yeah we have. What's the favor? 
Chief: A friend of mine called me last night from Florida. His daughter-in-law is staying here in San Francisco and he thinks she's in a little bit of trouble.
Nash: What kind of trouble?
Chief: Well, a couple of years ago she and her husband won the lottery out in Louisiana. The following year her husband was killed in a freak accident when they were traveling over in Europe. Since her husband's death last year she hasn't even dated, but there has been one guy that has been harassing her to go out with him. She finally decided to take a trip here to get away from him and it seems the bastard has followed her here.
Nash: You want me to find the guy, is that it?
Chief: Well, yes and no. I want your team to find the guy and I want you to give her protection.
Nash: Sure, I will get Evan to watch out over her.
Chief: Nooo Nash, I want YOU to watch over her. Her father-in-law and I went to college together and are very good friends. I promised him she would get the best, and buddy that's you.
Nash: Now Chief, you know it's the first of the year and I have all of those reports and stuff that I have to start working on, not to mention all the open cases we have.
Chief: Well as for the reports you can get Joe to do those, and as for those open cases, I know better. If you have more than a couple of those there is a problem. You have a crack team of people here that can handle those. Come on Nash. I really need you to do this.
Nash (hesitantly): Alright, but you owe me!
Chief: Great. Thanks. She will be here soon.
Nash: She is coming here?
Chief: Yeah, she said she had some shopping she wanted to do today and that she would meet you here.
Just then they heard a female voice asking where she could find Captain Bridges and an officer pointed her in the direction of Nash's desk. She comes walking over. She is dressed quite simply in a pair of faded jeans, black loafers, and a dark hunter green turtle neck sweater with a green/white/black plaid vest, the gold buttons unbuttoned. Her hair was long and straight, down to the middle of her back and dark brown. She had the sides of her hair pulled up in the back with a gold clip. Nash noticed her eyes, they were the bluest eyes he had ever seen and her lashes were full and long.
Chief: Lynn?
Lynn: Yes.
When she spoke she had a touch of a southern accent Nash noticed. He thought it sounded pretty.
Chief: Lynn this is Captain Nash Bridges, the friend of mine I told you about. Nash, this is Lynn Baker.
Lynn: Captain, it's very nice to meet you, and I want you to know that I really appreciate what you are doing. I really don't want to be a pain but my father-in-law and the Chief here insisted that I have someone with me at all times.
Nash: It's nice to meet you too, Ms. Baker. Don't worry, your not being a pain, it's not like this is your fault.
Lynn: Thank you.
Chief: Well, I am going to leave you two and get back to what I do. Nash, thanks again. Lynn, enjoy your stay here in the city and I hope everything works out for you.
Lynn: Thanks Chief.
Nash: See you later Chief. (To Lynn) So I hear you have some shopping you wanted to do?
Lynn: Yes I do, if that is alright.
Nash: Sure is, but before we take off to do that I would like for you to explain to a couple of my guys what's been going on. How about a cup of coffee or something while we do this?
Lynn: Sure, thanks.
Nash shows her back to the interrogation area and goes to get her a cup of coffee. He motions to Harvey and Evan to join him. Joe is walking to the coffee pot and Nash asks him to join them. Nash and Joe join Lynn at the table and Harvey and Evan stand behind Nash and Joe around the table. Nash introduces Lynn to everyone and asks her to explain what has been going on.
Lynn: Last year after my husband was killed I pretty much became a hermit for about 3 months or so. After that I started getting out doing things like shopping and errands and stuff. One day I went to get the oil changed on my truck and one of the mechanics who I had always talked to in the past asked me out on a date. I turned him down explaining that I wasn't ready to date yet and he said he understood. A few months later when I went back to get some work done on the breaks he asked again. I told him I still wasn't ready. And honestly, I hadn't even really thought about dating, so I didn't know if I was ready or not. I just knew he was someone I didn't want to go out with. Then about 2 months ago I went in to get new tires. I knew I should have gone somewhere else but I was so used to going there that there is where I went. I just figured I would tell him no again. This time he got a little angry telling me it was time that I get out and start dating, like it was his business. From there it escalated to phone calls all the time during the day and evening at home. Then the late night calls started. Then one day I was at the grocery store and I saw him following me up and down the isles. I reported him to the store manager and by the time security showed up he was gone. Then a couple of weeks ago I started seeing him parked outside of my house. I live in a very upscale neighborhood and there are no cars around that are more than a year or two old and he drives some old beat up thing, so he stood out like sore thumb. One night last week at 2 in the morning he rang my doorbell screaming for me to open the door. Of course I never did. I called the police but by the time they got there he was gone. That is when I decided that after the first of the year I was going to take a trip. Go away. I figured out of sight, out of mind. I checked into the Ritz yesterday morning and yesterday afternoon when I was out sight seeing I saw him. He tried to catch up to me at one point but I found a police officer parked on at a street corner and I guess he saw me talking to him and he took off.
Nash: Did the officer see him?
Lynn: No, when I turned around to point him out he was gone. The officer thought I was nuts. I know what I saw. He was there.
Joe: Did you say or do anything else that might have given him the impression that you were interested in him.
Lynn: No. When he and I used to talk, I talked to him the same way I am talking to yall now. I wasn't flirting or anything.
Harvey: What does this guy look like?
Lynn (pulling a picture out of her purse): This is him. (She hands the picture to Harvey) I took that yesterday when I was out sight seeing and he thought I was just taking pictures. I took it to a photo place and had them developed and that one blown up.
Evan (looking over Harvey's shoulder at the picture): Good picture. Do you know his name? First and last that is?
Lynn: Chet Jackson. I wrote the name of the shop where he works on the back of the picture.
Joe: You were lucky to get that picture.
Lynn: I know. I just hope it does yall some good.
Nash explained to the guys what the Chief wanted as far as Lynn's protection. He told Joe he was going to have to do the annual reports and that Harvey and Evan would be checking into Chet. When Joe wasn't working on the reports he would be working with Harvey and Evan.
Joe: Reports, huh? You owe me.
Nash (laughs): I know.
Lynn (smiling at Joe): No, I owe you.
Joe: No, I like it when he is in debt to me. This is a good thing, not your situation but that he owes me.
Lynn: Ok, but maybe one night you'll let me buy you all dinner or something once this is over...if it is ever over.
The guys tell her that's not necessary but she insists and they finally agree.
Nash (to Lynn): Are you ready to take off now?
Lynn: If you are.
Nash (to Joe): I will check in every couple of hours. You know the number if you need me bubba.
Joe: Cool brother!

Nash and Lynn spent the day shopping, sight seeing and they even had lunch. He told her about being a cop and she told him about winning the lottery and what life was like for her and her husband prior to that. They laughed, they talked and she even opened up to him about her husband's death and how she was dealing with everything since then. Every couple of hours Nash would call and check in with Joe letting him know that nothing had happened. At first Lynn had been keeping an eye out for Chet but after a while she relaxed and forgot to look for him, and so did Nash. Around dinner time they went by his apartment so he could check in on Nick.
Lynn: Nash, your telling me this building is condemned?
Nash (laughing): Yeah...it's really quite safe to live in, it's just that it isn't a good place to be in an earthquake or something like that.
Lynn: But yall have earthquakes out here! Why would you want to live somewhere like this if it isn't safe?
Nash: It's free.
Lynn (smiling): Ah...good reason.
The get off the elevator and walk down the steps into the living area.
Nash (calling out): Nick?
Nick (coming out of his bedroom): Yeah, right here.
Nash walks over the fridge and offers Lynn something to drink and she asks for a glass of water.
Nash: Nick, this is Lynn Baker. Lynn, this is my father Nick Bridges.
Lynn: Nice to meet you Mr. Bridges.
Nick: Nice to meet you too, young lady. And please call me Nick. Is that a southern accent I hear?
Lynn: Yes sir. I was born in Texas but raised in Louisiana. 
Nick: So you have kind of a combination of both accents. It's pretty.
Lynn (blushing): Thank you.
Nash: Nick, your embarrassing her.
Nick: I was just paying her a compliment.
Lynn: It's alright.
Nash explained to Nick what was going on and why he and Lynn were together.
Nick (to Lynn): Some people just can't take no for an answer can they?
Lynn: No they can't.
Nick: Don't worry. If anyone can catch this guy it will be Nash and the SIU.
Lynn (laughing): I thought they were San Francisco police officers, not Royal Canadian Mounties, always getting their man.
Nash: Nick is exaggerating. There have been a few that I haven't caught.
Nick: Maybe two.
Nash: That's enough.
Lynn: That's not a bad record. Actually I would say it is a damn good one.
Nash: Thanks. I try. (to Nick) We are going out to dinner. Do you want to join us?
Nick: No I don't want to impose.
Lynn: Please, you are not the one imposing. It's me, taking Nash away from his home life. Join us. I insist, it's my treat.
Nick: Well, I have never been one to turn down a dinner invitation from a beautiful lady. I'd be happy to. Just let me go change.
Lynn: Good.
Nash calls Joe again to check in. While he is on the phone Lynn steps out onto the terrace to take in the view. She is looking out over the city thinking how pretty it all was when Nash walked out and joined her.
Lynn: Pretty, isn't it?
Nash: Yeah, it's even prettier at night all lit up. I guess you don't get a good view of it from the hotel your staying at huh?
Lynn: No, I'm actually kind of in the middle of it all, or it at least feels that way. Nash, how long do you think it is going to take to catch this guy?
Nash: I have no idea. It could be a day or two or longer. How long are you planning on staying?
Lynn (laughing): You mean, how long do you have to baby-sit?
Nash: No, I didn't mean that at all.
Lynn: Come on...this has to be boring for you.
Nash: No, it isn't boring. I actually had a good time today.
Lynn: You did?
Nash (smiling): Yeah! Your a fun person to be around. I wasn't bored at all. It was fun.
Lynn (smiling): Good, I'm glad.
They both realized that they were standing pretty close together and that there was a strong attraction between the two of them. Just then Nick walked out of his room and announced he was ready. They stepped away from one another and Lynn walked back into the apartment with Nash following her.
Nash: Well then, let's go to dinner. Is The Cypress Club alright with both of you?
Lynn (laughing): I have no idea. So I guess it's fine.
Nick: Fine with me!

Everyone had a good time over dinner. Nick kept Lynn laughing and Nash couldn't believe that she found so many of Nick's old jokes and stories to be funny, so he was laughing because she was laughing. After dinner Nash and Lynn took Nick home. Nash was driving Lynn back to her hotel when he thought about something he wanted to show her.
Nash: How tired are you?
Lynn: Not too tired, why?
Nash: There is something I want to show you if your up for it.
Lynn: Sure, I'm game.
So Nash turned around and headed in the other direction. Before she knew it, they were pulling into the SIU parking lot.
Lynn: Nash, I have already seen your offices.
Nash (laughs): I know. You'll see in just a moment.
They get out of the Cuda and he takes her by the elbow and leads her into the SIU. Most everyone is gone. There are a few uniformed officers around and several say hello to Nash as they walk through. He takes her up the stairs and to the back of the barge. There was an area on the back that was open to the outside. From there you could see Alcatraz all lit up in the middle of the bay and the bridge was all lit up as well with city lights glowing all around them.
Lynn: Wow, this is a site.
Nash: Isn't it? Sometimes, when I'm in the middle of a case and working late, I come out here for a break and just look around and enjoy the scene and the peace and quiet until I have to get back to work.
Lynn: Nice thing to be able see when you take a break.
They stood there in silence for a while. Lynn was very conscious of the fact that Nash was stand less than 2 inches away from her. It made her feel safe. Actually, she had felt really safe all day, the safest she had felt in a long time. She turned to ask Nash a question and realized he was staring at her.
Lynn: Is something the matter?
Nash: No why?
Lynn: Your staring.
Nash: Sorry, I didn't realize.
Lynn: Nash...
Before she could finish Nash reached down and cupped her chin in his hand and leaned down and kissed her. He was really surprised when she kissed him back. Her lips were sweet and she smelled great, fresh, he thought. The kiss only lasted a few seconds and when he drew back he was a little concerned by the look on her face.
Nash: I'm sorry. I shouldn't have done that.
Lynn reached up and placed her finger over his lips to silence him and then placed her hand behind his head and pulled him down to her and she kissed him this time. The kiss was soft at first but grew with intensity. They wrapped their arms around each other, holding each other close but gently. Lynn leaned into Nash, gently pressing her body into his. They kissed for quite a while and then Nash pulled away.
Nash: I better get you back to your hotel.
Lynn: Ok.
On their way to the hotel Lynn is thinking that maybe that second kiss shouldn't have happened. Or that maybe she shouldn't have initiated it. Maybe Nash was an old fashioned kind of guy that liked to make all the moves.
Nash: Uh, listen. We need to talk about the sleeping arrangements for tonight.
Lynn: Sleeping arrangements?
Nash: Yeah. Technically you are in protective custody. I'm not supposed to leave you alone. Period.
Lynn: Oh...The Chief didn't tell me that.
Nash: He probably assumed you understood that.
Lynn: Well, I have suite, and I think the couch pulls out into a bed.
Nash: That will work. Good.
A few minutes later Nash notices that a car has been following them in the rear view mirror.
Nash: Do you know what kind of car Jackson is driving here in San Francisco?
Lynn: No. Why?
Nash: I think a car has been following us for a little while now.
Lynn (nervously): Oh God.
Nash: Don't worry. It's going to be alright.
Nash pulls out his cell phone and calls Joe and tells him what is going on and asks him to meet them at the hotel. He also gives Joe a description of the car and what he could make out on the license plate. Lynn says nothing the rest of the way to the hotel. When they arrive at the hotel the car pulls in right behind them.
Nash: It is possible he doesn't know I am a cop. When we get out of the car, I am going to walk you into the hotel with my arm around you. If he thinks we are just together he will be likely to approach.
Lynn: We want him to approach us?
Nash: Don't worry, I'll be right there, ok? We want to catch him in the act.
Lynn: Ok, if you think it's best.
Nash gets out of the car and walks around to open her door. The driver of the car doesn't get out at this point though. He stays in his car. They are walking through the parking garage towards the elevators when the driver finally gets out of his car. Lynn gets a good look at him and it is Jackson. She whispers to Nash that its him. Nash walks them to the elevator as if Jackson isn't even behind them. They get to the elevators and Nash presses the button for the elevator car. Then he turns to Lynn and pulls her into his arms and leans down and kisses her.  She's thinking what is he doing? This stalker is right behind us and he's kissing me, but then the kiss becomes more passionate and she forgets about Jackson. Nash pulls slightly away and says in a normal voice...
Nash: When we get to your room do you mind if I get comfortable.
Lynn (confused): Sure...
Nash (more seductively): You get comfortable too, alright?
Lynn (still confused): Ok.
The elevator door opens and they step in but Jackson does not.
Lynn: Do you want to tell me what that was all about?
Nash (smiles): Now he thinks we didn't notice him. We were too wrapped up in our "own thing".
Lynn: Oh, I get it. To throw him off.
Nash: Yeah.
The door opens and they are at the hotel lobby. They step out and head towards the front desk. Lynn collects her messages, and Nash notices Jackson coming in through the front entrance and then he sees Joe standing over on the other side of the lobby and he motions to Joe towards Jackson, Joe nods back and then they start for the elevators. They get in an elevator.
Nash: What floor?
Lynn: 10
Nash pushes the button and then just as the door is closing Joe rushes over and stops the door with his hand and steps in and says "thanks" as if he doesn't know them. The door closes. Nash quickly explains to Joe what has been happening and tells him that he wants Joe to find Jackson and watch him. They arrive at the 10th floor and Joe gets off with them. He is going to wait and see if Jackson shows up on this floor. Nash and Lynn go to her suite and Nash locks the door behind them.
Nash: Are there any other doors that lead into here?
Lynn: Yeah, there's one in the bedroom.
Nash goes into the bedroom to make sure the door is securely locked. It is. He goes back into the main room of the suite.
Nash: You can relax now. Joe has it under control. If he needs us for anything he will call.
Lynn: So its over for now?
Nash: Well, it should be. We'll just have to wait and see.
Lynn (frustrated): How can you be so nonchalant about the whole thing? The guy is crazy and your telling me basically just to relax!
Nash: I'm sorry. I know this is new to you, but believe me, I have been here before and the only thing we can do now is wait on him to make his next move.
Lynn (angry): First of all, I can't believe I have let this nut make me feel so scared. Secondly, I can't believe you are so calm. This is ridiculous.
She storms out of the room into the bedroom and slams the door. Nash understands that she's scared and frustrated over all of this but now she is acting as if the whole thing is his fault. Women! He takes his coat and vest off not even bothering to pull the bed out or take his shoes off or remove his gun and holster. You never know what is going to happen. Better be prepared. He leaves one small light on and turns the rest of the lights off and lies down on the couch with his arm over his eyes. Before he knew it he was asleep. The next thing he knew he heard a chilling scream come from the bedroom. He flew up with his gun drawn and barges into the bedroom. Lynn screams again at the site of him with a gun. Nash looks around the room and sees nothing. Lynn is sitting in the middle of the bed with the sheet pulled up to her chin and crying.
Nash: Are you ok?
Lynn: Yeah, I just had a bad dream is all. Sorry I scared you.
Nash (smiling): It's ok. It happens. Sorry about scaring you with the gun though.
Lynn: You just caught me off guard is all.
She wipes the tears off of her face, and Nash walks over to the bed and sits on the edge.
Nash: Are you sure your ok?
Lynn: Yeah I guess. Just a little shook up is all. This whole thing is now messing with me in my sleep. I feel like I am going crazy.
Nash (gently touching her arm): Your not crazy.
Lynn (crying more): Oh Nash...what did I do to deserve this? All I want is to get on with my life. First my husband is killed and I have to deal with all that and now this...is it ever going to end?
Nash: Yeah, it's going to end. I promise.
She reaches over and throws her arms around his neck and begins to sob quietly. He puts his arms around her and just holds her so she can let it all out. She cried for about 5 minutes and then pulled back slightly looking Nash in the eyes.
Lynn: Thank you. I needed that.
Nash: No problem.
He looks her in the eyes searching for what he didn't know, but he thought he saw something there and kissed her. She wrapped her arms tighter around his neck and he leaned her back onto the pillows all awhile still kissing her. She had on a black spaghetti strap chemise and while he was kissing her he kicked off his shoes and started to pull one of the straps off her shoulder. He then began to kiss down her neck and she arched her head back. He began to kiss down her chest. She moved her arm so he could get the strap off of her shoulder completely. When her breast was exposed he gently kissed her breast, at first everywhere but the nipple teasingly. Then he took her nipple in his mouth and gently sucked on it causing her to arch her back even more. She moaned. He slid the other strap down her other shoulder and pushed her gown down and then he paid attention to her other breast just as he had done on the first one. Every sense of her being was alive with all kinds of emotions and feelings. She hadn't felt like this in a long time. She took Nash's head in her hands and pulled him back up to her. She kissed him, gently probing inside his mouth with her tongue. Nash let out a low moan and placed his hand on her hip. She reached for the buttons on his shirt and started to unbutton them. Just then there was a loud knock on the main door to the suite. Nash bolted up. Lynn pulled the covers up over her.
Nash: Get dressed...quick.
Nash goes to the door with his gun in hand. He looks through the peep hole and sees Joe standing there. Nash opens the door and finds an out of breath Joe holding onto the door jamb.
Joe: You don't answer when your called for anymore?
Nash: When did you call for me?
Joe: Oh about 5 minutes ago. Jackson was up here. I tried to get him but he out ran me. He went down all 10 flights of stairs like a damn jack-rabbit.
Nash: Come on in. Sit down and catch your breath.
Nash goes over to the kitchenette and gets Joe a glass of water and brings it back to him.
Nash: You gonna live, bubba?
Joe: I think so. What the hell were you doing? Did you fall asleep, man?
Just then Lynn walks out of the bedroom, she looks at Joe and then at Nash. Not understanding what is going on, and the look on her face said as much.
Nash: It was Joe at the door. Jackson was up here but he got away.
Lynn: Oh!
Joe: Bubba, you never answered my question...were you sleeping or something?
Nash (smiling): Or something.
Joe: Oh...should I leave?
Lynn: No, your fine right where your at. Can I get you some more water?
Joe: Yeah thanks.
Lynn leaves the room to get the water.
Joe: Man, what are you doing? You break this one's heart and the chief is going to have your head on a platter, you know that right?
Nash: I'm not going to break her heart.
Joe: You always break their hearts, one way or another.
Nash: Stop.
Joe: Ok man, but I told you so.
Lynn comes back into the room with the water for Joe and hands it to him.
Lynn (to Nash): Now what?
Nash: I suggest we all get some sleep. Joe, go on home. I seriously doubt Jackson will be back tonight. He thinks we're waiting for him.
Joe: Your probably right. Inger will be happy that I actually got to come home.
Joe finishes off his glass of water and heads for the door.
Joe: I'll talk to you guys tomorrow.
Lynn: Goodnight Joe, and thanks.
Nash: Night, bubba!
Joe: Later...
And Joe leaves. Nash closes the door and locks up. When he turns around Lynn is gone and the bedroom door is shut. He thought to himself that something was up but he wasn't sure what to do about it. A few minutes later while he was lying on the couch Lynn came out of the bedroom with her robe on and sat down in the chair across from him.
Lynn: Hi.
Nash: Hi.
Lynn: I think we should talk.
Nash: Maybe we should.
Lynn: Nash, you know that no matter what happens between the two of us that in the end I am gonna have to go home. I have family, friends, and responsibilities there.
Nash: I know.
Lynn: So, do you think it wise that we start something we know is going to have to come to an end, sooner or later? I mean, there is not potential of a long term commitment here.
Nash (smiling): Sweetheart, if you only knew how bad I was at long term commitments.
Lynn (smiling): Well, let see...over lunch yesterday you told me about Lisa, Kelly, Whitney, and Caitlin. So I think I can guess. This may be something of a regular thing for you but usually when I give myself to someone, in anyway, it's not just because I am attracted to that person. I want a commitment...I want to grow old with someone, share my day with someone at night...have someone hold me at night, every night. I like that kind of thing.
Nash: I like that kind of thing too, it just doesn't usually work out.
Lynn (smiling again): Would you be terribly offended if I said I wanted to hold off on making love with you? I'm not shutting out the possibility completely, I just want to make sure I can handle that sort of thing. I'm not a kid anymore and...
Nash: I understand, and no, it is not going to offend me. We will take this at whatever pace you want to.
Lynn: Thanks. I really appreciate it.
She gets up and walks to the couch and leans over and gives him a simple quick kiss and looks in his eyes.
Lynn: I'll see you in the morning.
Nash: Good night.

The next morning Nash and Lynn get up and order room service for breakfast. They sit around for a while talking and reading the paper. Then they decide they are going out to do some more site seeing. Nash takes her    to see the Palace of Fine Arts, Alcatraz, and few other places and then she takes him to a late lunch. After lunch he took her down to Union Square to do some shopping. Afterwards on the way back to the hotel he teased her about buying out the stores. All she did was laugh and say why not! When they got to the hotel he carried her bags up for her. They got to the room and let themselves in. Nash placed the bags on the coffee table and Lynn went into the bedroom. Nash was just about to go to the kitchenette to get a drink when Lynn called out for him. He went into the bedroom and she stood in front of the vanity, shaking. In front of her on the vanity were candles and flowers all over the counter. Written on the mirror in her lipstick was "Your mine and don't forget it!" She looked at Nash.
Lynn: I had almost forgotten all about him. How did he get in here?
Nash (putting his arm around her and turning her to lead her from the room): I don't know, but I am going to find out. Don't touch anything in the vanity area but get your things packed. Your not staying here anymore.
Lynn: Where am I staying?
Nash: I'm going to take you to my place. And while your at it change your clothes.
Lynn: Change my clothes?
Nash: Yeah. I'll explain in a minute. Just get packed.
Nash walked off to the living area to make a couple of phone calls. First he called Harvey and told him to get a CSU team over to the hotel right away. Then he called Joe and told Joe to find a female officer that matched Lynn's physical description and get her over to the hotel. Then he called down to the front desk, identified himself and asked that the hotel manager and head of security be sent up to the room right away. He then went back to check on Lynn. She was still packing but had already changed clothes.
Nash: Where are the clothes that you just had on?
Lynn (pointing to a chair): Over there why?
Nash: When we take you out of here, your going out in a disguise and a female officer is going out dress as you, in case he is watching.
Lynn: When we sneak me out of here your taking me to your place?
Nash: No, Joe, Harvey and Evan are taking you over there. I'm going "out" with the female officer.
Lynn (nervous): Nash I don't know. I mean, I feel really safe with you...
Nash (smiling): I know...don't worry. I will be there shortly. Those guys are my best. You will be totally safe.
Lynn: Alright, I trust you and your judgment...
There was a knock at the door. Nash put his finger to his lips indicating that she be quiet. He drew his gun and went to the door checking through the peep hole and asking who it was. It was the hotel manager and head of security. Nash opened the door and motioned for them to come in. He explained to them what had happened and showed them the vanity area. He told them that Ms. Baker would be checking out and that the manager needed to get her bill together but as far as anyone asking for her, the hotel staff was to act as if she were still staying there. He told the head of security that they made need security's assistance in getting Ms. Baker out of the hotel safely. They both agreed to everything Nash said. Lynn walked into the room.
Manager: Ms. Baker, I am really sorry that this has happened to you while you were staying with us.
Lynn: It isn't your fault. The guy is crazy. This probably would have happened regardless of where I stayed.
Manager: I'll have your bill brought up to you right away.
Lynn: Thank you. Nash?
Nash: Yeah?
Lynn: I'm all packed except for my things on the vanity, which means sometime later today I am going to need to replace them all.
Nash: Don't worry, we'll take care of it.
There was a knock a the door. Nash went to the door. It was Joe and the female officer.
Joe: Nash, this officer Nelson.
Nash (looking her over): Good match. Lynn, show her where the clothes are that you had on earlier.
Lynn and officer Nelson go into the bedroom.
Joe: How is she holding up?
Nash: As well as can be expected.
Manager: I am going down to my office to take care of everything. Just let security know what you need.
Nash: Thanks. (to Joe) Where's Harvey and the CSU guys?
Joe: They were right behind us. They should be here any minute.
Just as the manager was leaving Harvey, Evan and the CSU guys were walking up.
Harvey: Where do you want them boss?
Nash: In the bedroom, but they're going to have to wait a minute. Officer Nelson is changing.
Evan: Officer Nelson?
Just then Lynn and Officer Nelson walked out.
Evan: Wow, you two could almost be twins.
Nash: I didn't realize it before but now that your both wearing the same style of clothes, he's right. Wow!
Joe: Yeah what he said...Wow!
Lynn: Well, now that you guys are through ogling us, now what?
Nash: Evan, go downstairs with security and get two bellhop uniforms and one of those luggage carts, but we are going to need a cover for it.
Security: We have a cover.
Nash: Good. Lynn, Give Nelson your sunglasses and you two change purses. Wait...your shoes...their different.
Lynn: Yeah, she wears half a size larger than I do.
Nash: Nelson, you think you could get into her shoes?
Officer Nelson: It will be tight but yeah.
Nash: Do it...we don't want to leave anything to chance. Joe, when Evan gets back with those uniforms you and he change into them. Harvey, it's going to be you that is "checking out". Call down to the manager and tell him we need to borrow the hotel limo, but we want the pick up in the garage, not at the entrance.
Harvey: You got it boss.
Evan returned with the uniforms and he and Joe went into the bedroom to change while Harvey was on the phone. Nash turned to Lynn.
Nash: Nelson and I are going to take off in just a moment. Then about 10 minutes later your going to crawl into that luggage cart with your luggage and they are going to roll you out of here.
Lynn: Your kidding right?
Nash: No, I'm not.
Lynn: You don't think this is going a little too far?
Nash: No I don't. You said you trusted me, right?
Lynn: Yeah, I do.
Nash: Then trust me on this one. We want to make sure that if Jackson is watching that he follows me and Nelson and that he has no idea that your still here in the hotel.
Lynn: Ok...your the expert.
Nash: Look, I know your worried about all of this. Try not to. (He caresses her cheek) Everything is going to be fine.
Lynn: Alright. So I will see you in about an hour?
Nash: Something like that. I'm going to call Nick on my way down and let him know that your on your way.
Lynn: Ok. Nash...be careful.
Nash (smiling at her): I will.
Harvey: All ready boss.
Nash: Ok Harv...(to Lynn) You ready?
Lynn: I guess so.
Nash: Alright, Nelson...lets go. Guys, wait about 10 minutes and head out.
Joe: You got it brother.
They all sit around waiting for about 10 minutes. Then Joe turns to Lynn.
Joe: Lynn, are you ready?
Lynn: As I'll ever be...let's get this over with.
Harvey: That a girl.
Lynn: Harvey? Don't you know frustration when you hear it?
Harvey (grinning): Just trying to be optimistic.
Lynn grins at him and then climbs on to the luggage cart with her luggage. They pull the cover down around her and roll her out of the room, Joe in the front, Evan in the back, Harvey walking along side. Down the hall. Into the elevator. Out of the elevator into the lobby. Over to the garage elevator. Into the elevator. And finally into the garage. They guys look around making sure no one is watching and then Evan pulls the cover back so that she can get off the cart and into the back of the limo. Harvey gets into the driver seat while Joe and Evan load the luggage into the trunk. Harvey explains to Lynn that they are going to wait for Evan, and then Joe will follow in his own car. Finally everyone is settled and they take off with Joe following the limo. Harvey takes "the long way" to Nash's place to make sure they aren't being followed. They weren't. When they got to Nash's place Joe rushed her quickly inside and up the elevator. Harvey and Evan brought up her luggage. Nick was sitting in the living room reading the paper when she walked in.
Nick: Well hello there, roomie!
Lynn (smiling): Hi Nick. Thanks! That makes me feel a little better.
Nick: Only just a little?
Lynn: Actually, a lot. I really hope this isn't too big of an imposition.
Nick: No, not at all. You just make yourself at home. If you need anything at all you just let us know.
Lynn: Thanks.
Joe: Nick, have you heard from Nash since he called to tell you we were coming?
Nick: No, I haven't. Was I supposed to?
Joe: No, just checking.
Harvey and Evan walk in with the bags. Nick tells them to just set them over by the plants and that they would put them somewhere later. Then the phone rings. Nick answers it.
Nick: Hello?
Nash: Hey Nick! How is everything? Is Joe there?
Nick: Yeah he is...hold on a second, son...Joe, for you.
Joe (taking the phone): Yeah, Dominguez.
Nash: Hey bubba. How's stuff?
Joe: Good! Couldn't be better. And you?
Nash: Great. Just left the hotel. Should be there in about half an hour.
Joe: Good...hold on a second..someone is saying that you need to stop at the store.
Nick: Tell him to stop by the store and pick up something for dinner.
Joe: Nick says pick up something for dinner from the store.
Nash (laughing): Yeah I guess I was suppose to do the shopping the other day and never did. Alright make it about 45 minutes or so then.
Joe: Alright, I'll let Nick know. See ya then. (Then to Nick and Lynn) He said he would stop at the store, but it would be about 45 minutes or so before he got here.
Nick: That's fine. Everyone come on in and sit down.
Joe: We don't all need to stay...
Harvey: Joe, you and Evan take off. I know Ev has a hot date and I'm sure Inger would like to see you at home. I'll stay.
Joe: Are you sure Harvey?
Harvey: Yeah sure! I don't mind sitting here with a pretty lady and Nick.
Nick (laughing): I noticed you didn't say I was handsome.
Everyone laughs and Harvey again reassures Joe and Evan that they can take off. Finally Joe and Evan take off and Lynn, Nick and Harvey take a seat in the living room and talk until Nash arrives. He comes in with an arm full of groceries. Harvey jokes with him.
Harvey: What's for dinner, dad?
Nash (laughing): I don't know, why don't you go check your pantry.
Harvey (grinning): Good one, boss.
Lynn gets up and goes into the kitchen and helps Nash unload the groceries. Nick tries to get her to go sit down but she insists on helping.

After Harvey left, Nash started cooking dinner and Lynn helped. Nash tried to get her to go sit down but she insisted. He thought it was fun though. The two of them cooking together. Everything he did she had a suggestion on how to do it better. He had to laugh, he hadn't had this much criticism over his cooking since Lisa had left town. He had to admit though, her suggestion did help, but he thought, how much more could you do to spaghetti? Apparently a lot. While the sauce was simmering Lynn went out onto the terrace. She found a bench and laid down and before she knew it she had fallen asleep. When Nash came out to join her he found her asleep and went in and got blanket for her since it was chilly and he covered her with it. Then he sat in a chair and just watched her sleep. She looked so peaceful, and beautiful. He thought about what she had said last night about commitment. He liked this lady, a lot, and he hated to see her go home when all was over and done with, but she was right. He couldn't commit right now and with her living in another state even if he could, he wasn't sure a long distance relationship is what he would want. She stirred and opened her eyes just then. She saw him sitting there and smiled at him. He got up and when he did she sat up and he went over and sat next to her. She pulled the blanket up around her and then he put his arm around her and she leaned against him resting her head on his shoulder.
Lynn: Thanks for the blanket.
Nash: Not a problem. Couldn't have you freezing to death.
She laughed and they sat there in silence for awhile. He kept his arm around her, even pulling her in closer to him, and she snuggled into the crook of his arm.
Lynn: Nash, I want to thank you for everything that you have done over the last couple of days, and not just for the protection. I mean for the shopping, site seeing...just everything.
Nash: No need to thank me. I had fun myself. It isn't often that I get to have fun on my job.
Lynn (with a laugh in her voice): I bet.
Nash took his other hand and placed his index finger under her chin and turned her head toward him and he leaned down and kissed her. She returned the kiss passionately. When the kiss was through she turned her head back and rested it against his should again and smiled. She liked him, a lot. This was getting way too tempting, she wanted him, badly, but still wasn't sure she was ready for something like that. Nash interrupted her thoughts.
Nash: I better go check on that sauce.
Lynn: I'll go with you.
Nash: Ok, how about a glass of wine?
Lynn: Sounds good.
The sauce was just about ready and Lynn made some garlic bread while Nash poured them each a glass of wine and started the pasta. Nick came in and set the table, all awhile everyone was talking and having a good time. After dinner they all sat around talking some more and then later in the evening Nick announced that he was going to bed. Nash and Lynn we alone in the living room on the couch cuddled together in each others arms just talking. He made her laugh and she made him smile with the things they talked about. Finally it was late and someone had to bring it up.
Lynn: So where do I sleep tonight?
Nash: You can take my room, and I will take the couch.
Lynn: No. That is not acceptable.
Nash: Well, do you want the couch?
Lynn: No.
Nash: Well then we don't have any other options.
Lynn (standing up, taking his hand in hers): Yes we do.
Nash stood up and she led him to the bedroom. Once in the bedroom she closed the doors and turned to him.
Nash: Are you sure about this?
Lynn: Yes.
Nash: I don't want you to feel you have to do this...
Lynn (while unbuttoning his shirt): I don't. I want to.
Nash (leaning towards her): Ok.
They kiss while undressing each other standing next to the bed. Once their clothes are removed they lie back on the bed and spend the next hour caressing, kissing, and tasting one another. They make love as if they never wanted it to end, slow and easy at first, and at the end it was passionate and loving. When they were done Nash held Lynn close to him while they slept. 

About 4am Lynn woke up because she heard a noise, but it not being her home she wasn't sure what the noise was. She shook Nash gently.
Lynn (whispering): Nash...wake up.
Nash: Hmm...what is it baby?
Lynn: I heard a noise. It sounded like it came from the roof but I'm not sure.
Nash (more awake now): From the roof?
Lynn: Yeah.
Nash: Grab my robe from over there...put it on quick.
Nash pulls on some sweat pants and a jersey as she puts the robe on, and then he grabs something from a drawer. Once she has the robe on he grabs her by the arm and drags her into Nick's room. He wakes Nick and tells him about the noise and tells him to stay in his room and to keep Lynn in there with him. He hands a gun to Nick and tells him to use it if he has too. Nick tries to convince Nash that he isn't sure he could fire it safely because he is so asleep.
Lynn: Give it to me.
Nash: Can you shoot?
Lynn: Honey I'm from the country...I can shoot...and I don't miss.
Nash: Ok here...just don't shoot me. (He smiles)
He leaves closing the door behind him. A few seconds later they hear him say "Freeze, SFPD!" A few seconds after that there is a loud crash and some mumbling, then silence. Lynn gets up from the corner she and Nick are in and starts for the door slowly. Nick tries to stop her, but she silences him. She creeps to the door and opens it slowly peeking out into the apartment. She sees Jackson standing in the dining room with his back to her and he is looking down with a gun in his hand and talking...TO NASH! Nash is lying on the floor on his side. She creeps from the bedroom and down the steps and is a couple of feet away from Jackson when she raises the gun and points it at him and positions herself.
Lynn: Drop your gun...NOW!
Jackson (turning towards her): There you are...can you believe it...this asshole was trying to keep us apart. Come here sweetheart.
Lynn: Don't make me sick. Drop your gun Chet...NOW! I'm not going to tell you again.
Jackson: Lynn, sweetie...what are you doing? (He takes a step towards her)
Lynn: You take another step and I will shoot you.
Jackson: You know you wouldn't shoot me. We love each other.
Lynn: I don't love you...hell, I don't even know you!
Jackson takes a step towards her and she shoots hitting him in the shoulder.
Jackson: YOU SHOT ME!
Lynn: I told you if you moved I was going to shoot...you moved.
Jackson: YOU BITCH...
He starts to move towards her again and she shoots again, this time hitting him in the side of his abdomen. This infuriates him even more and he lunges towards her and she steps back and shoots again this time hitting him in the knee. He falls to the ground screaming, dropping his gun and holding his knee.
Lynn (as she kicks his gun out of reach): Now you won't move anymore.
He keeps yelling at her but she ignores him and runs to Nash. He had been hit on the head with something and there was blood all around his head. Nick comes out of the bedroom and walks around Jackson and goes to Nash. Lynn tells him to call 911 and get a towel. She holds Nash and tries to wake him up. After a few minutes he starts to come around.
Nash: What happened?
Lynn: He hit you over the head...your bleeding pretty badly. Stay still.
Nash (trying to sit up): I'm fine...
Nick: No your not. Stay still like she said, at least until the paramedics get here and clear you.
Lynn: Sweetie don't move. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Nash: Where's Jackson.
Nick: She shot him...he's lying over there.
Nash (looking over at Jackson): Is he dead?
Lynn: I wish...I just wounded him...actually I had to wound him 3 times because he wouldn't stop. The last one did the trick. I shot him the knee so he couldn't walk anymore.
Nash: The last one?
Lynn: Yeah, I had to shoot him 3 times before he would stop. The first time I shot him in the shoulder and he kept coming at me...then I shot him in his side and still kept coming...so finally I shot him in the knee so he would have to stop.
Nash (reaching up to touch her face): Good girl.
Lynn: Thanks. All I could think about was getting to you.
They hear the sirens of police cars and the ambulance. Joe, Harvey, Evan and a few uniformed officers come barging into the apartment with their guns drawn.
Nash: It's ok guys. He's down.
Joe: And it looks like you are too. Who shot him?
Nash: Not as bad as it looks. I'm fine, these 2 are just being over protective.
Nick: Just as you would be if it were one of us.
Nash: I guess your right Nick. Lynn shot him
Harvey: Evan, tell the paramedics it is ok for them to come on in.
Evan: You got it.
Joe: Lynn? You shot him?
Lynn: Yeah.
Joe: I am really impressed!
Lynn: Thanks!
The paramedics come running in. One goes to Nash and the other to Jackson. The one attending to Nash tells him he needs stitches and Nash insists that he is fine so his paramedic cleans his wound and then goes to help his partner with Jackson. After Jackson is removed from the apartment all of the uniform officers leave and then Harvey and Evan leave.
Joe: You need me to stick around?
Nick: Joe, I think we have it under control...at least I think Lynn does.
As Nick was saying this Lynn was helping Nash up the steps to the bedroom, holding him around the waist.
Joe: Looks that way...guess I am out of here.
Nash (hearing Joe): Hey bubba, Thanks!
Joe: No problem brother! Listen, with that bump on the head maybe you should take a couple of days off. We'll cover for you.
Nash: You sure man? I have been out of the office a lot this week...
Joe: Don't worry about it. We have it under control. If we need you, we will call you.
Nash: Thanks, I appreciate it.
Joe: Lynn, let me know if he needs anything, cuz he won't.
Lynn (laughing): Sure thing. Thanks, Joe.
Joe: You guys enjoy the rest of your visit. I'll talk to you later.
Joe leaves and everyone returns to bed.

Over the next few days Nash and Lynn spent every minute together. Every once in a while Nash would call in to the SIU but that would only last a few minutes. They went shopping, site seeing, to dinner, to lunch, to the movies and much more. They would get back to Nash's apartment in the evenings and head straight for the bedroom and would stay there usually until about noon the next day. Finally the day came and it was time for Lynn to go home. Her flight wasn't scheduled to leave until 2pm but they just hung out at the apartment that morning in bed. Lynn and Nick had said their goodbyes the night before and Nick had gone out for the day to give them time together. They made love and talked all morning. Then about 11 Lynn got up and started to pack while Nash was in the shower. When he got out of the shower she got in and he fixed them some lunch. During lunch they were both quiet, both afraid if they spoke the time for her to leave would come a lot faster. After lunch they sat on the couch for a while just holding each other until it was time to leave for the airport.

Once at the airport they checked her bags, still not speaking to one another. Lynn was afraid if she said anything she would start to cry. Nash didn't say anything because the last time they talked she teared up and he was afraid of making her cry. The got to the gate and sat down to wait for the flight t board. He put his arm around her and she settled into the crook of his arm and put her head on his shoulder and they sat in silence. About 20 minutes later the flight was called to board and they just sat there until they couldn't wait any longer. Nash stood up and helped her up. They walked to the gate with their arms around one another. At the gate they turned and looked at one another.
Nash (quietly): I guess it's that time, huh?
Lynn (with tears in her eyes): Yeah I guess so.
Nash: You'll come back and visit again, right?
Lynn: Yeah...and one day if you ever decide to take a vacation you'll come see me right?
Nash: Sure will. Try and stop me.
She smiled at him and he kissed her. The kiss was soft and sweet, but then he started to taste the salt of her tears.
Nash: Don't cry. It hurts me to see you cry.
Lynn: I can't help it. I'm sorry. I don't want to go, but I know I have to.
Nash: You could stay...
Lynn (smiling through her tears): You know that would not work out. We talked about that, remember. The whole commitment thing.
Nash: I could possibly change my point of view on that subject, for you that is.
Lynn: And you wouldn't be happy for long, would you? No, we'll see each other again.
Nash: Yeah...
Lynn: I better go...
He grabs her and kisses her passionately this time, probing his tongue in her mouth getting one more good taste of her before she leaves, and she did the same.
Nash: I'll call.
Lynn: Me too...goodbye Nash.
Nash: No goodbyes...I hate goodbyes. See ya later.
Lynn (smiling): See ya.
She turns and walks down the ramp to the plane. He watches her go. She doesn't look back...she can't if she did she would run back into his arms and never go home. Instead she kept walking forward with tears streaming down her face. She gets to the plane and the flight attendant showed her to her seat in first class. Luckily no one was sitting next to her. She looked out the window and could see him standing by the window in the terminal. She waved but she knew he couldn't see her. She smiled and whispered...Thank you Nash, for everything. I love you. The plane began to move from the terminal and she put her head back and settled in for the flight home.

THE END