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1 ~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Warrick sat at the table in the break room eyeing Sara and Grissom, who were standing by the door, bantering about a case that had just come into the day shifts inbox. Things were uncharacteristically slow for the night shift lately. It seemed like all of the bodies were being found or reported during the day, which left only spillover work for the night shift, and even that had to be pulled from Ecklies begrudging hands. He shook his head slightly.
Man, you two are never going to get it, he commented in an almost whispered tone. Grissom turned his head to Warrick.
What? Grissom asked, only having heard a mumble. Sara smiled at Warrick, but then her gaze once again fixed on Grissom. Warrick didnt fail to notice this.
Nothing, Warrick said, grinning, just talking to myself. Grissom nodded. Then, Grissoms beeper went off, and smiles came to all of their faces. We actually get to do some work tonight? Grissom checked his beeper and nodded again.
Looks like it. He responded, and then looked at Sara. She appeared almost giddy to finally be working on a case again. Gather up Nick and Catherine while I find out about this, Grissom said as he gave a small grin to Sara and Warrick, and left the room.
Ill go get Nick, Sara said cheerfully. I saw him talking to Greg a couple of minutes ago. Warrick grinned and got up from his seat. He was glad to see her happy about the possibility of working again, but was still bugged that she and Grissom hadnt gotten beyond the occasional flirting stage. He didnt know why it bothered him, but he decided to do something about it.
Guess that leaves me with Catherine, he said as he walked past her into the hall. Sara smiled, and nudged him.
Not that you mind, she commented. He turned around to look at her, and she was already heading toward the lab, but she turned around to flash him another smile. He shook his head. Warrick didnt think that he had been as obvious about his feelings for Catherine as Sara had been about her feelings for Grissom.
He walked down the hall in search of Catherine, sighing to himself. Leave it to Sara to tease me about Catherine, but not be brave enough to act on her feelings for Grissom. Then he smiled. Now I really am going to have to do something.
Within five minutes they were all gathered around Grissoms desk, hopeful for the new assignment. Murder was bad, but boredom was worse, at least for this group. Grissom looked up and started to hand out assignments.
Looks like the underbelly of society heard your pleas for an end to your boredom, Grissom said dryly. Nick smiled. Grissom shot him a look, and then asked, What?
Just thanking God, Nick said, still with a huge smile plastered on his face. Grissom shook his head. Nick was the only one he knew that could possibly come up with a justification for that comment, so he let it go, but not without a roll of his eyes.
Nick, you and Warrick get Warrick cut off Grissom.
Gris, you mind if I get teamed up with Sara tonight? He asked. Every head in the room turned to look at him, and eyed him suspiciously, except Sara, who looked more surprised than anything. Warrick just shrugged. I need to talk to her about something. Grissom raised his eyebrow, but relented to pairing them up. After hearing that Warrick needed to talk to her, Sara figured that it had something to do with her comment about Catherine, for which she was mentally chiding herself because now she didnt get to work with Grissom. Not that she would have necessarily gotten to work with him anyway, but she didnt want to entertain that thought.
The teams headed off toward their respective cases, Warrick and Sara toward one crime scene and Grissom, Catherine, and Nick toward another. On the car ride over, Grissom looked like he was deep in thought, and his brow kept furrowing at the thoughts that were going through his head. Nick smiled.
Already going through possibilities when we havent even collected evidence yet? Man, you must have been more bored than I was, Nick said. Catherine grinned at Nick, but then looked back to Grissoms confused face. She decided against her better judgment, to press the issue that she knew he was thinking about.
So I wonder what Warrick wanted to talk to Sara about? She asked casually, a hint of a smile played on her lips. Grissom swung his head to look at her, but then went back to driving as if nothing had been said, the comment still ringing through his ears. Catherine had to hold back from laughing. It must have been pretty important for him to ask to be partnered with her, she continued. Nick, oblivious to the underlying situation, decided to add to the conversation.
Well, theyve been getting along a lot better since that whole bus crash fiasco, he said. Catherine almost erupted with laughter, and just barely managed to contain it. She wondered if Nick knew what was going on, or if he was just adding his own observations. Either way, it was obviously getting to Grissom, as his hands had clenched around the wheel unknowingly, but with a mix of confusion and anger in his eyes. The car pulled to a stop.
Were here, Grissom stated and went into automatic mode, trying to push the thoughts about Sara and Warrick to the back of his head, at least for now.
Warrick hadnt said a word since he and Sara had arrived at the crime scene almost an hour ago, well, nothing that wasnt work related. It was driving Sara crazy with anticipation. She didnt really want to hear a lecture about how she shouldnt tease him, because God knows he and Nick teased her enough about everything in her life, but she still wanted to know what he had to say since he had gone to the trouble of being assigned with her for the case.
Hey, I think I found something, possible murder weapon, Warrick said from the other room. Sara rushed into the bedroom, but only saw Warrick holding a half-eaten lollipop in his hand. She looked confused momentarily, and then cocked her eyebrow.
Warrick, thats a lollipop, she stated. He smiled and shrugged.
Death by chocolate? He asked innocently. Sara shook her head.
Death by blunt force trauma. Im pretty sure candy doesnt leave big pools of blood on the carpet. She giggled, and then regained composure. She stepped closer to look at the lollipop. Hey! And its not even chocolate, its like, root beer or something, she scrunched up her nose and made a disgusted look. Whats going on with you?
What do you mean? He asked as he continued to collect evidence from the room, making sure to bag the lollipop for possible DNA not belonging to the victim.
Why did you ask to be partnered with me tonight? She asked with an exasperated sigh.
Like I said, I needed to talk to you, he commented, but didnt look at her.
Yeah, and you havent. So whats up? Warrick stopped what he was doing so he could look at her, but then resumed looking around the room.
Ooh, can you get a picture of this? He asked her, pointing to something slightly under the bed. She nodded, and came over to him, crouching down to get a better view with the camera.
What is that? She asked, a small look of horror in her eyes.
Its blood.
No, I meant the design, she said. Warrick shrugged.
Dont know yet, thats why we need the picture, he said, tapping the top of the camera. She shot him a look and he grinned. Someone had taken what was presumably the victims blood and drawn a design on the carpet. Hope this doesnt turn into a serial killer, he said, shaking his head. Sara made a humph sound.
Well, you know if they went to all the trouble to draw with blood that it probably will, she said, turning her eyes toward him, giving him a small smile. I think weve got everything here for now, we should head back and report. Warrick nodded.
Okay, he replied. They started to pack up their various swabs and bags and got into the car. The car drive back to the lab seemed to be taking longer than the drive over. I wanted to ask if you had plans on Tuesday, Warrick said casually, not even looking over at Sara. She turned her head to see his eyes still fixed on the road.
Tuesdays my day off, she said, a little confused by his question. Warrick grinned at this, and turned to face her as they pulled up to a red light.
Im aware of that, he said smugly, otherwise I would already know what your plans were. Sara smiled.
Why do you want to know?
Just thought we could go to dinner or something, he said, taking his eyes off of her and driving again. That caught her off guard.
Why me? She asked. Then she decided to push her luck. Trying to make Catherine jealous? Because I dont think it will work. Warrick eyed her with an unreadable look.
No. It just seems like weve been getting along better at work, and since we both have Tuesday off, I thought Id try and make an effort to be friends, he explained calmly. A surge of guilt passed through Sara.
Geez. Be more of a bitch why dont you Sara? Here he is offering the proverbial olive branch and youre teasing him about Catherine. She gave him a little smile and said, Oh. Then after an awkward pause, she added, Okay, that sounds good. Warrick looked over at her and grinned. They pulled into the parking lot.
Lets get this stuff in, he said, and then noted, Must have been a worse crime scene the others went on, theyre not back yet. The expression on his face was solemn. Sara frowned, and they headed into the building.
When they got to the lab, there was an unfriendly face there to meet them. Greg gave them an Im sorry look and then their attention turned to the visitor.
Hey Ecklie, Sara mustered a monotone greeting. Warrick just gave him a nod of acknowledgment. Ecklie looked very stressed, but still retained his smug demeanor.
Ms. Sidle, Ecklie greeted her, leering at her body, and she cringed. Warrick wasnt comfortable with the way Ecklie looked Sara, though he tried to reason that he wouldnt be comfortable with Ecklie looking that way at anyone.
What do you want? Warrick asked gruffly. He quickly added, Grissoms not back yet. Ecklie briefly glanced at Warrick, then returned his eyes to Sara, who was slowly and subconsciously edging closer to Warricks more muscular form.
Actually, I came to speak with Ms. Sidle, Ecklie sneered.
About? Sara asked. She could only stand to be in the same room with the man for a limited amount of time, and that time was almost up, especially the way he was looking at her.
Day shift is going to be having an opening come open in about a month, I thought you might like to be transferred. Sara looked at him in shock, but came up with a response quickly.
Would it mean working with you? She asked. He nodded.
Of course.
Then no, she stated, shaking her head vehemently. Warrick and Greg both had to suppress laughing. Ecklie didnt seem phased. He just gave her a smile as he started to walk out of the lab.
Just think about it, you could have a normal life again, actually go out on dates, he said, looking her over one more time, and then he walked into the hallway. Saras mouth hung open. It wasnt often that she was at a loss for words, but this was certainly one of those times. Warrick furrowed his brow. He touched her on the shoulder and told her that he would be right back and to start processing the evidence without him. He met up with Ecklie further down the hall.
Hey, he said, commanding Ecklies attention. That whole thing that just went down in there could be considered sexual harassment, you know? Ecklie grinned.
I dont see how, Ecklie feigned innocence. All I did was offer her a transfer to day shift. Warricks eyes narrowed in a threatening manner.
You were undressing her with your eyes the entire time, even I felt uncomfortable. Dont let it happen again, Warrick warned, and started back to the lab. A few steps later, he turned back to Ecklie. And about the dating thing, Saras taken. With that, he went back to the lab, leaving a contemplative Ecklie in his wake, as well as a stunned Grissom, who had just come into the building.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
The next evening, Grissom came into work to see Sara already there, which was no big surprise since it seemed that she practically lived there. What was surprising is that Warrick was there too, and he had apparently just said something to her that made her giggle. Grissom was stunned. He had thought that Sara and he had something special, an unspoken connection, and although he had admittedly been slow to pursue it because of his position as her boss, and his social awkwardness, he thought that she would always be there. He had never imagined that she would actually have that sort of connection with anyone else, especially not Warrick, given their less than ideal history.
Whats so funny? Grissom asked dryly. He didnt really want to know what they were talking about, he just wanted to know what the hell had happened to come in between his and Saras burgeoning relationship. Sara saw him standing there and her face lit up.
Nothing poptart, Sara replied, and then she burst out laughing. Warrick was doing his best to hold his laughter in, but finally exploded as well. Grissom stood there looking completely confused, but shook his head.
Never mind, I dont want to know, he said. What have you got on the Thomason murder? Warrick and Sara eyed each other. They knew that Grissom wasnt going to like the answer to that question.
Nada, Warrick answered. All hair and prints at the scene belong to the vic, the only thing we might have is a half sucked lollipop that suggests the perp is male, or whoever had the lollipop is male.
And so far we have nothing on the design the killer drew in blood, Sara chimed in. Ive been trying to match it against everything I can think of, and so far nothing, but Ill keep on it. Grissom nodded.
Okay, this is okay. Theyre probably just getting to be friends, and Warrick was just trying to keep Ecklie away from Sara. Rational explanation for everything, my world isnt falling apart. Grissom thought.
So where do you want to eat tomorrow? Warrick asked Sara. Grissoms head shot up from the paperwork he had been rifling through.
What? He asked, in a more startled voice than he wanted to let forth.
Oh, since Sara and I both have tomorrow off, we decided to go to dinner. You know, get to know each other better, Warrick explained. Grissoms mouth dropped open slightly, but he nodded, not wanting to betray his inner feelings.
Note to self, never schedule them for the same days off again, Grissom mentally slapped himself. Ah, is all he can get out.
Someplace with asparagus, for some reason Ive been craving that lately. Warrick nodded. So hows your case going Grissom? Sara asked, genuinely interested, and desperately wanting a change of topic. He observed her big smile, the one she uses just with him, and the tone in her voice, and maybe he was making a big deal out of nothing. Grissom sighs.
Cut and dry, kind of wishing I had gone to the other one with you, he said. Warrick grins, but Grissom misses it, his eyes focused on Sara. She grins as well, and then nods.
I wish you would have too, she stated, in a quieter voice than usual. Shes glad that Grissom seemed to be paying attention to her again. It seemed for a while there that he had been distracted, or had just lost interest in flirting with her. The mood was ruined when Nick came into the room, smiling broadly, and waving lab results around.
I was right! He proclaimed, smacking the papers down on the table. Grissom barely tipped his head to the side and looked at him. Nicks smile faded to a grin as he explained. The murderer was her boyfriend, I was right.
There were two sets of footprints at the scene Nick, Grissom started, but Nick just shrugged.
My best guess is he got his brother or a friend to help him move the body to the bedroom, his light drawl smoothly going over the words. Although, Im not sure why. Like nobodys going to notice the big blood splatters on the living room wall and carpet? Come on! He shook his head. Grissom shot him a look, and Nick ducked his head and sighed. I know, I know, find out who the other guy was.
And if it was a guy, Grissom added. Nick rolled his eyes grabbed a coke from the refrigerator, and then sat down next to Warrick.
Hows your case going? Warrick and Sara looked at each other. Warrick shook his head slightly.
Not good. No prints, no nothing. The only thing this guy left us is a sucker, and we dont even know if it belonged to the killer, he answered. Nick smiled, still under a bit of a rush about being right about their suspect.
Hey! He left you candy, nice. Sara laughed.
Would have been nicer if he hadnt had half of it first, she said.
But then you wouldnt have his lovely DNA all over it, and then how would you catch him? Nick jested. Then, the photo of the drawing with blood caught his eye. Whats this? Warrick buried his face in his hands. Although his plan to get Grissom and Sara to admit their feelings seemed to be on track, he hadnt been sleeping well, and this case that left little evidence wasnt helping.
Killers an artist, Sara answered. Nick looked up at her and raised his eyebrows.
Or something else, Nick said. Sara furrowed her brow.
What do you mean?
Looks like the symbol for one of the teams on Galactic War Games, that internet site, Nick explained. Sara and Warrick both looked at him with wide eyes. What? I have nephews, the last time I went for a visit, they were playing on the site. Grissom seemed interested.
So someones trying to play in the real world? He asked, although it came out as more of a statement. Sara She was already up from the table and about to leave.
I know, going to get a warrant for the list of online players real life names now, she said, brushing past him. He grinned. At least she could still read his mind.
Damn, Warrick said as he got up. I was hoping it was Ecklie, he said jokingly, and walked past Grissom. Nick started laughing.
It still could be, he half shouted after him, getting up to leave. Grissom looked at him. Well, it could, Nick smiled and went back to work. Grissom face grew a slight grin as he pondered what Nick had said. Then he shook it off.
I couldnt be that lucky.
~*~*~*~*~*~
Three hours later, Warrick and Sara walked into Grissoms office. He looked up at them briefly, and then returned to his paperwork.
Arent you even going to ask what we found? Sara beamed. He stilled his pen and cast his eyes upon her face, giving her a small grin.
What did you find? His voice was calm, reasoned.
Only two matches for all of Nevada, and one of them is an eight year old, Warrick answered. Grissom gave Sara a look.
Of course, were going to check out both leads just in case he lied about his age, right Warrick? She managed to ramble out. She knew thats what Grissom would say to do next, they were still in sync, or so she kept telling herself. Grissom nodded.
Get to it then, he said and then his head bowed down to look at his paperwork again, as if no further conversation was needed. Warrick and Sara left the office.
You wanna split up? We could actually get this done tonight if we do, Sara asked, her eyes shining brightly. Warrick eyed her, as if thinking about the answer, even though he knew there could only be one he could give.
Better not, he shook his head. If you get the eight year old who turns out not to be an eight year old, but a psychopath, then you die. If you get the 34 year old who turns out to be the killer, then you die. Either way, Ill die, because Grissom will have my head, and I like life. Living is a good thing. Sara suppressed a giggle.
Grissom wouldnt blame you, he knows I can be stubborn, she reasoned.
Somehow, I dont think hell take that as an excuse, he paused, opening up the passenger door on the car. Your chariot awaits mlady. Sara sighed. She knew she wasnt going to win this argument, and especially hated losing to Warrick. He had become a more formidable opponent as of late.
Fine, lets just hurry, she said, seating herself in the passengers seat. Warrick leaned his arm on the open door and arched an eyebrow.
Why? Got a hot date? Sara laughed.
Nope, not until tomorrow, she smiled and winked her eye. Warrick laughed. Not because he and Sara were supposed to be having dinner the next evening, but because he knew something she didnt know, he knew the plan. He got in the car and they began driving to the 34 year old, Steven MacAbees, house. Not because they considered him the more viable suspect, but because it was closer, and as luck would have it, in the same direction as the 8 year old, Jimmy Estess, house. Sara decided to break the silence that had accompanied the ride so far, since Warrick had swatted her hand away from the radio at the very beginning of the trip.
So, you and I going to dinner and everything, Sara paused and tried to think of what to say next, at least in a tactful manner.
Uh-huh, was the only response elicited. Sara rolled her eyes.
You should wait for me to finish the sentence before you start adding in comments to make it sound like youre actually listening. Warrick briefly looked at her. Sara grinned; at least he was paying attention. Anyway, like I was starting to say, when are you going to get around to asking Catherine out? Warrick swung his head around and stared at her. Eyes on the road, I dont want to crash. He looked back at the road and continued to drive.
When am I going to ask Catherine out hmm? When are you going to ask Grissom out? Saras eyes grew large and she started looking back and forth.
I dont know what youre talking about, she pushed the words out of her mouth. God, that didnt sound unnatural, Im so screwed. Warrick didnt look at her this time, but a small grin came across his lips.
Uh-huh, sure you dont.
I dont. Sara said shaking her head slightly. And even if I did, its not the womans responsibility to do the asking. Warrick laughed. What?
You really have been out of the whole dating scene for a while havent you? And besides, you asked Hank out. Warrick pulled the car up to the curb in front of Steven MacAbees house. Saras jaw dropped. Warrick got out of the car with his supplies, leaving a stunned Sara still sitting in the car for a moment. She furrowed her eyebrows and got up.
Hey! She shot back, jokingly punching him in the arm. I thought you wanted to try and be friends? She arched an eyebrow and smiled. Warrick returned the gesture.
Part of friendship is honesty, he said as they walked up to the door. Sara rolled her eyes.
Thanks Buddha. Warrick creased his eyebrows down and placed a hand on his belly. Sara laughed.
Thats not funny. Ill have you know Ive been working out every day, and Im pretty sure Buddha didnt have a six pack, he reasoned. Sara was still smiling when she rang the doorbell.
Yeah, or your unique sense of modesty, she tilted her head to the side, then back up when there came an answer to the door. A boy around 10 years old answered the door.
Hi. My name is Warrick, this is Sara, were with the Las Vegas Crime Lab. Were looking for Steven MacAbee. The boy didnt look stunned or impressed, he looked condescending.
Yeah, thats me. What do you want? Sara raised her eyebrows at the childs obviously snotty behavior.
Does your father have the same name as you? She asked, trying to lighten the mood a little bit, she gave a small grin.
No. He didnt elaborate. Warrick and Sara looked at each other.
Think we got the data mixed up somehow? Warrick asked. Sara shrugged.
I dont see how. She turned her attention back to the boy. Are you part of an online gaming community called Galactic War Games? The boys mood brightened considerably.
Yeah baby! Rogue Deltas rule! He made a little movement with his hand and had an excited smile plastered on his face.
Um, the site gave your age as 34, she said, a little confused. MacAbee rolled his eyes.
Duh. Mom wont let me do anything online unless I give an adult age so someone doesnt try to come and get me, he explained to her like she didnt have a clue what was going on in the real world. Warrick rubbed his temple with his left hand.
Damn. Okay, other guy then? He looked at Sara, disappointed. She gave him a consolation smile and nodded. Okay, thats all, thanks for your help Steven. Steven put a smile back on.
No problem. Rogue Deltas rule baby! He made the motion with his hand again and then shut the door. Sara sighed and they started walking back to the car.
If someone was coming to get him, it would be to kill the obnoxious little twerp, she mumbled. Warrick smiled.
Be nice.
I was being nice.
The drive to Jimmy Estess house was a little longer than expected due to traffic.
What are you thinking? Warrick cast an eye over Saras worried features. She looked so happy when they had arrived at the first house, and now she looked so concerned.
Im thinking that if MacAbee lied about his age then pretty much anybody who used the site could do the same thing, and if thats the case, maybe they can lie about their location too. She sighed. Their first real break on the case was turning into a goose chase, and she was getting frustrated. Warrick nodded.
Would it help if I said I have a special surprise for you tomorrow night? Saras head turned from the window to look at Warrick, who proceeded to waggle his eyebrows at her. She looked at him like he was crazy, but then smiled. He wanted to play, she could play.
How special? At the tone in her voice, he gripped the wheel a little bit tighter than he had been holding it.
If youll recall, I also said surprise, which means that I cant say anything else about it, he sloughed off her previous comment. He could handle this. Things were getting a little more complicated than he had hoped for. His plan had just been to make Grissom a bit jealous, enough to start progressing his relationship with Sara, and enough for Warrick to play mind games with Grissom. No harm in that right? Now he was thinking that he should have told someone else about the plan, namely Sara. She was a little too good at harmless flirting for someone who was supposedly socially awkward. It would be dangerous for him to develop feelings for her, especially knowing how Grissom felt. Life would be hell.
Warrick spotted the turnoff and they headed toward Jimmy Estess house. They had already informed backup about the Steven MacAbee situation, so they were getting ready to come to the house in a short amount of time, just in case they were needed. As they pulled up to the house, a sense of dread encompassed Sara. The lawn was unkempt, two of the windows had boards over them, the paint was faded and chipping, and overall it looked like it had been abandoned. Warrick looked at her. They started their walk to the door, which didnt look at all welcoming.
I dont know about you, but when I was eight, I had chores, he stated, nodding his head to the dry, dead, weedy lawn.
Tell me about it, Im thinking Jimmy Estes, she emphasized his name with a definitive disfavor, either doesnt live here, or
Or hes an over 18 whack job, Warrick finished. Sara looked at him and nodded. They rang the bell. After a couple more rings and a knock, the door opened. In the doorway stood a tall, seedy looking man, with stringy brown hair, and a stench that smelled like he hadnt bathed in a few days. Hi, my name is Warrick
You cops? The man asked. Uncertainty filled Saras head about how she should respond to the man. If they said they werent, surely they would get more information, or they would just get themselves killed.
Were criminalists, we work for the police department, she stated. Warrick moved a hand to the small of her back to steady her. Were looking for Jimmy Estes.
You found him.
I see. The records we have for an online game site called Galactic War Games say that the Jimmy Estes were looking for is eight years old. Do you have a son in your home? Sara questioned as she eyed the man. He wasnt acting how she expected he would after first seeing his appearance. Then, the seedy man smiled. His teeth dirty and rotting, Sara and Warrick had to both hold back a cringe.
Doesnt live here, lives with his mom. He set up the account under my address so he could play the game, his mom doesnt like that sort of thing. Sara and Warrick nodded as Warrick took notes. So, youre here for my kid huh? Sara looked at him again, he had an unreadable expression on his face, but it wasnt a good one, it looked almost evil.
Sara decided to slightly change the topic.
Why did you think we were police officers Mr. Estes? Were you expecting the police? He had no reaction other than to stare at her. She became a little unnerved under his stare, but didnt turn her eyes away. She wasnt going to let some loser make her afraid of doing her job.
Only people that ever dare come up to the door are my kid and cops, he slowly rolled the sentence off his tongue. To Warrick, it almost sounded rehearsed. He furrowed his brow. Then, Estes did something that would allow them to get a warrant to search his house. He leaned his left arm up against the door and his jacket opened to expose a t-shirt with the same design the killer left at their crime scene. Sara and Warrick looked at each other.
You want to tell us why youre wearing a t-shirt with the design from a game that you said your son signed up for? Warrick asked. As if he read Warricks mind, he looked down and then looked at Sara.
You can call all the backup you want sweet pea, Im immune from prosecution, He drew out the last part of his sentence as he leered at Sara in a hungry manner. Warrick cocked an eyebrow.
You a diplomat or something? He asked, knowing full well that the man standing in front of them wasnt anything close to a diplomat. Because if you are, you havent shown us your papers, which means we can arrest you. Estes rolled his eyes.
No, but I got friends. Warrick looked at Sara again and nodded. She called for backup and they arrived a little after five minutes later.
Howd you guys get here so fast? It took us forever, Sara commented to one of the officers. He smiled and gave a shrug. They proceeded to arrest Jimmy Estes, or at least, the man they thought was Jimmy Estes.
Warrick and Sara began the drive back to the lab.
~*~*~*~*~
When they reached the building, Grissom was standing in the doorway waiting for them.
I thought you two would be going through his house right now. He made a characteristic Grissom face and Sara rolled her eyes.
And thats why youre standing there waiting for us right? Warrick asked sarcastically. Grissom shot him a warning look.
We decided to wait until morning, get Nick and Catherine to help so we can get it done faster, she said, grinning at him. Following an uncomfortable pause, she said, Its been a long last couple of days, Im going to go turn in these samples and notes. Warrick nodded his head once, but stayed where he was. Grissom looked back at him.
This wouldnt have anything to do with your date tomorrow night? He asked, trying to keep his jealousy, or any other emotion from running into his words. Warrick grinned.
Its not a date.
I dont want you to feel like you have to hide things from me, I overheard you talking to Ecklie the other night. Grissom looked hurt. He was trying to hide it, he wanted to be happy for them, but he couldnt, not yet.
What exactly did you hear? Warricks demeanor turned serious.
I heard you say that she was taken, Grissom said in a low voice, almost a whisper. His head was down, not wanting to deal with the situation he believed to be in front of him. Warrick rubbed his eyes and looked at Grissom.
He was harassing her. Grissoms eyes shot up.
What?!
He was harassing her. He asked her if she wanted to move to day shift, was looking at her like he wanted to rape her the entire time, and when she turned him down he made some cracks about her needing to get a normal life again, start dating, Warrick explained.
So what did you tell him?
I told him to knock it off, that if it ever happened again that Id report him, then I added that she was taken, thats it. Grissom looked stunned. He had never liked Ecklie, and he was sure the feeling was mutual, but he didnt think Ecklie would stoop so low as to harass Sara to get back at him. Or, rather, he hadnt thought about it at all. He tried to think of Ecklie as little as possible.
Is it true?
I just told you everything that happened, its the truth Gris. Grissom shook his head and looked at Warrick with a sorrowful expression.
Is it true that shes taken? He barely managed to get it out. He had been suffering for the last couple of days over the possibility that the soul mate he had finally found was moving on with her life because she didnt know or didnt care how he felt about her. Warrick smiled. His plan was working. He shrugged.
Dont know. Like I said, he started to make his way past Grissom, its not a date, its just a get to know you thing. He cocked his head to the side. You want me to ask her? Warrick kept a solemn expression on his face to make his emotions and motives unreadable. Grissom just stared at him blankly.
If you dont know then why did you tell Ecklie that she was taken? He asked, trying to get Warrick to admit to something, anything, that would give him some insight as to what was really going on. Warrick sighed.
I just thought it might help get rid of him for a while. Warrick stopped talking and purposely averted his eyes from Grissoms when he continued. Saras right. It has been a long last couple of days, at least for us, and Im gonna go home and get some shut-eye before I have to be at the scene tomorrow. He walked away from Grissom toward the lockers, the grumbling in his head persistent. This is getting way too complicated, I need to find a way to stop it.
~*~*~*~*~
The next morning, Warrick and Sara were accompanied with Nick and Catherine, and all four were scouring through Estess house, but there was nothing there. Literally. There was one makeshift bed, which was just a mattress on the floor with a blanket, a chair, some food delivery containers, and a cell phone. It didnt look like he had been living there very long, if he had been living there at all. They swabbed and bagged what they could, and left to go back to the lab. Nick opted to ride with Sara, citing that he hadnt gotten much of a chance to talk to her lately and wanted to see how the case was going, but with the actual ulterior motive of trying to get information about her possible relationship with Warrick. She agreed to go with him, because it meant Warrick had to ride with Catherine. Which, she knew he would love, and she would be able to tease him about later.
Okay Sara, you wanna tell me whats really going on? Nick glanced at Sara as he was driving. Sara took notice of the smirk that covered his face and smiled.
I dont know what youre talking about, she feigned innocence and looked the other direction. When she looked back at him, he was looking at her with a yeah, right expression. She beamed a blinding smile. Scouts honor. She made the scout sign.
Wow, and I really believe you too Sara, he said, sarcasm dripping off his every note. Lets review the evidence in this case shall we? She eyed him suspiciously. First, we have a dry spell at work, only to happen upon a wiggy case where the suspect apparently wasnt living where he was living and has no obvious motive. Sara nodded. But thats not even the weird part. The weird part is that Warrick specifically asked to be assigned as your partner on this case, and apart from only a few times when I have ever seen you two be friendly with each other, usually at my expense, I have never seen you act in more than a civil manner toward each other.
What are you implying? Sara interrupted.
Im implying that theres usually more than meets the eye, he said, waiting for a response from Sara, but receiving none, he continued. I dont think Ive ever seen you smile as much as you have these last couple of days. Well, unless youre being complimented by Grissom on what a good job youve done. He rolled his eyes. Teachers pet. Sara turned away from him so he couldnt see the blush rising to her cheeks. Anyway, if you two are seeing each other I think I have a right to know.
Sara whipped her head around, her eyes large.
Wha? She started stammering. Im not seeing Grissom, hes She tried to come up with a viable reason that she wouldnt be seeing Grissom, the one man that she really wanted to be seeing. Nicks eyes grew big and then he started laughing.
God Sara! No! I meant you and Warrick, he explained, still laughing. Sara covered her embarrassed face with her hand and shook her head, waiting for the red color to flush.
Oh, man. Nick said, stifling another chuckle. You realize Im going to have to tell him you said that though right? Grisll have a fit. Saras eyes went large again as she realized Nicks implication.
You wouldnt. It came out as more of a question than Sara would have liked. Nick just grinned.
Not if you tell me whats actually going on with you and Warrick, he smiled mischievously. Come on, I thought we had that whole brother sister dynamic going on. He peeked a sideways look at her. Sara grumbled and frumped into her seat.
Yeah. The brother I never had and never wanted. She mumbled as she leaned her face against her palm. Nick laughed again.
Oh, now dont say that. You know you love me sis, Nick teased. Sara looked at him.
Youre not going to start calling me that are you?
Youd better believe it, Nick chuckled and then flashed her a smile. She groaned, but smiled back. Nick paused. So youre really not going to tell me? He feigned being emotionally hurt at her unwillingness to share. Come on, you know you want to.
Theres nothing to tell, she shook her head a little. You have the wrong idea. He just wants us to be friends. Nick raised his eyebrow in a cocky manner.
Was that your idea or his? He asked in an implied tone. Sara glared at him.
His, but you really do have the wrong idea. He just thought since wed been getting along better lately that maybe we could try being friends. Nick grinned.
Uh-huh.
Its the truth Nick.
I believe you Sara, he said, trying to keep a straight face, but then bursting into what could only be described as a mans version of giggling. Sara rolled her eyes, but then gave into a faint smile.
You believe me and yet youre laughing at me?
I believe thats what he told you, he said in an honest manner, but still with the underlying tone that he didnt believe thats what Warrick actually wanted. Sara sighed.
Whatever. Nick just smiled as they pulled up to the building.
~*~*~*~*~
So you got anything for us Greg? Nick asked as he dumped more evidence bags into Gregs inbox and smiled. Greg didnt even look at the work that he had accumulated. He was obviously happy and nodded confidently.
Yes indeed. First of all, Chris Edwards, parolee extraordinaire, left your second shoeprints. He left his fingerprints all over the crime scene, along with the other guy, and according to his file, its his shoe size. Greg rambled off.
Yeah, but lots of guys have that shoe size right? Sara asked, not really knowing a lot about Nicks case.
A size 17? Uh, no. Greg answered.
Oh. Sara hadnt realized the shoeprints had been so large.
You know what they say about guys with big feet right? Cuz Im a size he directed at Sara.
Greg? Nick interrupted.
Yeah?
Shut up. Nick said matter-of-factly. Greg opened and closed his mouth and then just nodded.
Right. He said. Okay, and then on your case Sara, it gets weird. Sara nodded.
Of course it does.
This Jimmy Estes that was brought in, his prints came up as someone else. Dont know if he changed his name or what, but
What name? Sara asked, now more interested in what Greg was saying.
I was just getting to that if youd let me finish a sentence. Nick gave him a warning look. Right, bully the guy who ends up processing all your case breaking evidence, you know, someday you guys will learn to appreciate me. He looked at Nick and Saras glares and sighed. Stuart Fellowes. But thats not the X-Files conspiracy theory part. Hes been in jail for the last 6 months, and then got sprung when the forensics department, our very own daytime forensics department, suddenly came up with some evidence i.d.ing somebody else for the crime. Greg leaned back in his chair, proud of his findings. Sara and Nick looked at each other, clearly stunned.
Who came up with the evidence? Sara asked.
Yeah, and since when do they get to work cases that have already been put to court when they already have new assignments? We dont get to do that, Nick added. Greg gave a sympathetic grin.
Well, Ecklies the one who signed off on it. Grissom would have to give the final say-so, but I couldnt find his name anywhere on the paperwork. Could still be in processing, Greg pondered. Sara shook her head.
No. If it was still in processing, then he wouldnt have been released. Must have been like Estes, or, Fellowes, said. Hes got friends. She was visibly rattled by the information. What had started out as a joke between her and Warrick was looking like a real possibility. Maybe Ecklie wasnt responsible for the murder, but he was certainly involved somehow. She looked at Nick again and he nodded. Too much telepathy going on in this place. She laughed in her head, but not out loud.
We need to tell Grissom, Nick stated.
You need me to call Brass for a warrant or anything? Greg asked. He so wanted to be part of their investigation, other than just the smart guy in the lab. He wanted to feel involved. Nick flashed a knowing grin.
Yeah, itll just save Grissom the time, Nick said as he and Sara started to walk out of the lab. After walking down the hall, they arrived at Grissoms office, the door to which was open. He was sitting in his chair looking at paperwork.
Hey, Sara greeted. Grissom looked up. Thought you worked the night shift, she kidded.
Last time I checked, so did you, he snapped back. Her previous expression of happiness to see him, to tell him what they had found out, quickly changed to remorse. She didnt know why he seemed to be shutting her out again lately. She started to think she should have let Nick tell him the news himself. Nick, noticing the friction, decided to continue the conversation.
Greg found us some interesting information, he said. Grissom stayed silent, but attentive. He listened as Nick filled him in on everything they had just found out. Grissom rubbed his palms over his face, and then started to massage his temples.
Okay. You call Brass? Nick nodded.
Greg said he would call him, Im sure hell be over in no time, Nick responded. Sara had remained quiet, when usually she would be very excited to share the information. She looked at the ground, and then at the door, but avoiding Grissoms face.
I should get home, I need to get some sleep. Without waiting for a response from either of the two men, she left the office. Nick looked at Grissoms fallen features as Sara left. It just then clicked for him, what Grissoms feelings for Sara actually were.
She said theyre just friends, or trying to be friends, he tried to comfort his boss. Grissom raised his eyes to look at him, and stood up. He started rifling through a book, not looking for anything in particular.
And you believe her?
I dont know. I didnt at first, and I still dont know if I do. Either way, you should be happy for her. Grissom glared an unbelieving glare at Nick. You wanted her to get more involved with a life outside of work right? You were complaining that she was here twenty four hours a day.
I wasnt complaining, just observing.
Im not the one you need to tell that to. Nick shook his head as Grissom went to sit down again. You should tell Warrick how you feel about Sara. Another warning look was shot at him. Not that you feel any particular way, Nick covered, but if you do, you should tell him. Im sure hed back off. Grissom sighed and resumed going through his paperwork.
Right now it looks like I have more important things to be concerned with, Grissom responded in an evasive answer. Nick gave a thoughtful nod.
Yeah. Nick turned to leave. But you shouldnt put the rest of your life on hold either Gris. Its not healthy. He left without turning to face the man looking at him from the desk. Grissom just sat there, and within moments of Nick leaving, he shoved his face into his hands.
You beckoned? Ecklie asked as he strolled into Grissoms office. He showed little to no respect for Grissom, as he saw him as the only reason he didnt get the position that Grissom currently held. Grissom gave him a stern look, but underneath it, Ecklie could see Grissoms weary features, and decided to use it to his advantage. Grissom shoved a photocopy of the papers Ecklie had signed at him.
Can you explain this? Ecklie picked up the papers and briefly scanned them with his eyes.
Nothing to explain. He shrugged, but avoided eye contact with Grissom. It was much easier for him to lie to people if he didnt have to look directly at them, so he pretended to still be looking at the papers. New evidence came in on my shift, and I signed the papers. Grissom just stared at him.
You do realize that Im your supervisor and that this should have been run past me to sign? Grissom asked in a condescending tone. This caught Ecklies attention, and he glared angrily at Grissom.
Im in charge of the day shift, it came in on the day shift. Case closed. Im good at my job, I dont need you to tell me how to do it, Ecklie responded in an indignant fashion.
Well, apparently you do. The guy you helped set free is now a suspect in a murder investigation. Ecklie raised his eyebrows, but quickly regained his composure.
What? So youre saying its my fault that this guy went out and killed somebody? Come on, you know better than that. A high percentage of guys who go to jail or prison commit more violent crimes once they come out. Its the system. Ecklie reasoned, although his tone was apparent, and Grissom was surprised.
And were the part of the system thats supposed to prevent against that sort of thing happening. Grissom sighed. Im just giving you the heads up as a courtesy, but a formal investigation is being launched against you and, Grissom paused to look at the name of the investigator who brought in the evidence, Roberts. Roberts? Who is Roberts? His brow furrowed and he glared at Ecklie. Ecklie shrugged.
Hes new, Ecklie responded in an uncaring voice. Grissom tilted his head.
I dont remember approving anyone new for your department, he said. Ecklie stared at him.
You didnt. The request and approval were put in before you were made our commander and chief, he shot back. And a formal investigation is a waste of time, everything was done by the book. I hardly think one missed signature is the end of the world. Ecklie tried to play it cool, but Grissom could see the thin layer of sweat developing on the mans face. Grissom nodded.
Well see. Ecklie got up to leave, but turned around to face Grissom before heading out the door.
Oh, just so you know, I asked Sidle if shed be interested in transferring to days when the opening comes up in the next month. Grissom glared angrily at him. Ecklie smiled. His statement had elicited the response he was looking for. Just trying to keep you in the loop. He left the office and a seething Grissom behind him.
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