Title: Twisted Evidence
Fandom: Forever Knight 
Category: Romance/ Slash 
Pairing: Nick/ Lacroix 
Rating: Adult 
Disclaimer: Forever Knight and its characters were created by Barney Cohen and 
James D. Parriott and are 
copyright to Sony/Tristar. None of the characters in this story belongs to me. 
I'm just borrowing them 
temporarily. No infringement intended. No profit is being made. 

Special thanks to Doris for beta reading and suggestions.

This is the ninth chapter of my "Evidence"-Series that begins with "A Piece of 
Evidence" and continues with 
"Evidence of Love", "Lack of Evidence", "Plain Evidence", "Circumstantial 
Evidence", "Evidence of Trust", 
"Unexpected Evidence" and "Evidence of Fear". It contains several references to 
the previous stories, which 
you will find at www.come-undone.net. So you should read those first in order to 
be up to date with the plot.

"Twisted Evidence" begins exactly where "Evidence of Fear" left off.


Twisted Evidence
by PJ
November 2004


Nick woke with a start. He was not sure what had woken him, but he found himself 
in a rather uncomfortable 
position. He was lying in the middle of Lacroix's bed, his hands tied with silk 
scarves to the headboard. He 
must have really been exhausted when his master had managed to bind him without 
him even noticing 
anything.

He turned his head to the door and saw his master enter, dressed in a robe.
"Ah, you are awake", Lacroix stated with a smile. "Good."
"Lucien, what is your intention?", Nick inquired wearily.
Lacroix sat down on the edge of the bed.
"I intend to drive you crazy with need."
Nick swallowed, a sense of anticipation creeping through his body.

Lacroix reached out and very tenderly brushed his fingertips across Nick's 
cheek, then along his chin and 
neck.
"I'm going to wake a desire in you that compares to nothing else", he whispered 
into his ear.
"And then?", Nick asked.
Lacroix curved his lips.
"Then we shall see…"
He left the statement hanging in the air.

Leaning down he captured Nick's mouth in a demanding kiss, his tongue caressing 
Nick's fangs until they 
dropped. Then he raised his head to observe his handiwork. His son grinned at 
him through extended fangs, 
expecting the continuation of their kiss any moment.
Lacroix leaned down again, but as Nick raised his head to meet him, he evaded 
his lips, causing his child to 
growl in frustration.

Instead he licked his tongue along the length of Nick's neck, lingering a moment 
on the pulse point where he 
left a well placed kiss. Nick's breathing had increased during the actions.

Lacroix continued his downward path, sucking and licking until Nick was lying 
squirming beneath him.
His eyes were on the point of turning crimson and his breath was coming in rags.

"So hungry, aren't you?", Lacroix purred.
Nick nodded in confirmation.
"And so am I", Lacroix answered and retrieved a knife from the nightstand.
As the knife came into view, Nick expected Lacroix to cut his bonds. Soon he 
would be free to feed on his 
master's blood which he so desperately needed for his release.
But instead of cutting his bonds, Lacroix used the knife to make a cut at his 
shoulder.
Nick winced at the pain that soon dissolved into pleasure as Lacroix's lips 
closed over the wound and 
sensuously sucked at the blood that surfaced.
The action was repeated on several parts of his chest. Before long Nick found 
himself looking forward to the 
pain, knowing that immense pleasure would follow immediately.
He was thrashing in ecstasy on the sheets and yet he was acutely aware that he 
was craving his master's 
blood more desperately with each passing second.
"Lucien", he rasped. "I need your blood!"
"And you shall have it", his master soothed. "But not yet."
Nick growled fiercely at the denial.
"Can you feel the desire burning in you?"
He used the knife to cut his fingertip. The sight and scent of his master's 
blood brought Nick to the edge of 
frenzy.
"As it consumes you until you can focus on nothing else?", Lacroix continued.
"Please", Nick begged.
"Do you feel it?", Lacroix asked more urgent.
"Yes!", Nick cried with ardour.
Lacroix leaned over him, just out of reach.
"This is what I have endured over a century. Certainly you can endure it another 
few minutes."
Nick gasped at these words, suddenly realizing that this was not love making. 
This was a lesson.

"In all this time I have been burning for you, Nicholas. Your denial has only 
increased my desire for you. Only 
you can satisfy me. Your jealousy is unnecessary, Nicholas. Do you understand?"
Nick stared at his master. He had not been aware what he had done to him during 
the years he had kept 
running from him. And yet, Lacroix had never given up nor taken someone else.
Another feeling mixed with his desperate craving, he felt cherished and loved 
above all else.
"I'm sorry", he whispered.
Seeing that his son had understood his point, Lacroix reached for the bonds and 
cut them in a swift motion.
"Bois, mon fils, and revel in the desire that is burning for you alone."
Nick needed no further invitation. He pulled Lacroix down and sank his fangs 
into the vein at his neck. 
Fiercely he sucked in his master's essence and cried out in bliss as he felt 
Lacroix's bite into his shoulder.

* * *

When Nick woke up, he still had his arms around Lacroix. The elder regarded him 
expectantly, trying to get a 
hint at his mood.
"Are you angry, Nicholas?"
Nick shook his head.
"No, I just wished ---"
"Yes?"
"I just wished all your lessons had brought me that much pleasure."
"They probably would have if you had paid better attention."
Nick scowled.
"Lucien, I had no idea", he said, changing the topic.
"I know", Lacroix answered. "And I hope you realize now that your jealousy of 
Dr. Lambert or anyone else is 
unnecessary."
Nick nodded mutely.
"Good. Why don't we give it a test and invite Dr. Lambert for an evening out? As 
a thank you for her recent 
favour in providing transportation during the day?", Lacroix asked.
Nick looked at him, surprised.
"What kind of entertainment did you have in mind?"
"The opera perhaps. There is plenty of room in the box I have reserved."
"Okay, I will ask her", Nick agreed.

Lacroix reached for Nick's wrists and untied the end of the scarves. Angry dark 
bruises came into view.
"It was well worth it", Nick stated as he saw his master frown at the sight. 
"Only problem is, I have to work 
tonight."
"Then we have to see that we get you presentable again", Lacroix said and used 
his thumb nail to open the 
vein at his neck.
Nick's lips closed over the wound instantly.

* * *

Natalie entered the bullpen and approached the desk where Schanke sat filing 
reports.
"Hey Schank, where's your partner?", she asked.
"Not in yet", Schanke answered slightly annoyed.
"But I saw his car outside", Nat pointed out.
"Yeah, he told me to drop him off at Lacroix's place and take the Caddy with me. 
Neither saw nor heard 
anything from him since."
"Is everything all right, Schanke?", Nat asked, concerned at his tone.
"Don't ask me. I'm trying to appear busy investigating a case of which I know 
has been closed, except that 
this will never be known officially. I saw my partner cold-bloodedly kill 
another man who then burned to dust 
at sunrise. But apart from this, sure, everything is alright."
Nat had listened to his rants with growing alarm. 
"The least he could do is help me with the paperwork. How should I know what to 
put into the report. But 
obviously he thinks he does not need to bother with the boring stuff."
"Schanke, you know that's not true", Nat interjected.
"So, why isn't he here then?"
"I am here, Schanke", a voice spoke from behind them, causing them both to jump.
"You are late", Schanke stated after he had recovered.
"I'm sorry. I was delayed by something."
Judging from his rosy cheeks, Natalie had her own suspicions what this 
'something' had been. And she 
doubted that Lacroix would approve of being referred to as 'something'.

"Nick, can I talk to you for a minute?", Natalie asked.
"Sure, if Schanke can spare me a little longer", Nick replied.
"Take all the time you need. I've just decided to let you handle the paperwork. 
I'm going to grab some 
coffee."
Nat used the opportunity to drag Nick into a conference room.

"Nick, what happened yesterday? Schanke is going nuts."
"Sebastian, the vampire who is responsible for the killings used Schanke as 
bait. I was able to rescue him in 
time, but he saw me kill the guy."
"Then you saved Schanke and killed the vampire in defence? Why is he so upset 
then?"
Nick cast his eyes to the floor.
"I was ---- a little enraged. It's possible that Schanke was a little shocked by 
the sight of me."
Nat gave him a sceptical look, not sure if she wanted to hear any more details.
"Anyway, you should talk to him about it. He does not know how to handle this 
case. And you should come 
to a mutual agreement how to close this."
"Yeah, I know", Nick said with a sigh, glad that she did not prod him to reveal 
more details about his 
motivation in killing Sebastian.

"Nat", he called her back when she was about to leave the room. "Lacroix wants 
to express his gratitude for 
your help after I had been arrested. Would you join us at the opera tomorrow 
night?"
Nat stared at him. This was the last thing she had expected.
"The opera? With the both of you?"
Nick nodded.
"I don't know", she said more to herself. As much as she would like to go with 
them, she did not want to be 
the fifth wheel. But at the same time her curiosity got the better of her.
"Okay, why not. I'll be glad to come", she announced.
"Good. I'll pick you up at 7 then."

They exited the conference room to find Schanke sitting at his desk, nursing his 
coffee. The mountains of 
paper that had previously covered his blotter were now piled on Nick's desk.

* * *

When Natalie returned home in the morning, she dashed directly towards her 
closet, taking inventory of her 
wardrobe. She hoped to find something appropriate for a night at the opera.
"Lambert, you are going out far too rarely. You definitely need new clothes." 
With a shrug she reached past her work suits to the very end of the closet and 
pulled out a black evening 
dress. She had worn it only once, at Azure, hoping it would be one of the most 
romantic evenings in her life. 
But then it had turned out to be a nightmare without end.

Would they notice that she was wearing the same dress? Hardly, she thought. 
They'd probably only have 
eyes for each other.
Having made up her mind she changed into her nightgown and went to bed.

* * *

Natalie regarded herself in front of the mirror, when the doorbell alerted her 
that it was time to get ready.  
She pulled on her coat and opened the door.
"Hi, Nick", she greeted him. "I'm ready to go."
"Good. Lacroix will meet us at the entrance", Nick explained and led her towards 
the Caddy.

* * *

"Doctor Lambert, I'm glad that you accepted my invitation", Lacroix purred as 
they met him in front of the 
theatre.
They entered the foyer.
"Ah, radiant as always", he remarked as he helped her out of her coat, his 
fingers slightly touching her bare 
shoulders. Natalie shivered involuntarily at the cold touch. Nick noticed the 
rise in her heartbeat and shot his 
master a warning glance.
Then he slid his arm into Nat's and led her upstairs towards the box Lacroix had 
reserved. 

Once the curtain had risen, Natalie soon forgot the men's presence. She was 
totally caught up in the 
performance of "Madame Butterfly".
 
The second half turned out to be as magnificent as the beginning. Although 
Natalie did not understand the 
words as they were sung in Italian, she was quite able to follow the plot. It 
was a moving story and she could 
no longer suppress her tears. Gratefully she accepted the handkerchief that was 
offered and dried her eyes, 
not caring who had been so attentive.

* * *

"Wonderful", Nick stated after the applause had died down.
They left their seats and filed downstairs with the other patrons.
Natalie excused herself for a moment and disappeared into the Ladies' room. She 
wanted to check herself in 
the mirror as she had the feeling her entire makeup had been washed away by her 
tears. She used the 
handkerchief she had received to wet her eyes with some cool water. It was then 
that she noticed the 
monogram on the tissue.
"Damn", she muttered as she stared at the letter "L". Not only had he caught her 
crying her eyes out, he also 
had to let her know that he did by offering her his handkerchief. Nat blushed in 
embarrassment.

That moment a young woman entered the bathroom, obviously struggling to regain 
composure.
"Sad ending, hm?", Nat remarked and handed the offending handkerchief to the 
woman before gracefully 
stepping out of the room.

"I'm taking Nat home", Nick announced as they exited the theatre.
"Very well. I will go ahead. Doctor, I hope you enjoyed the evening."
"Yes, thank you for inviting me", Nat replied.
Nick leaned for a moment close to Lacroix.
"Chez moi ou chez toi?", he whispered.
"Chez toi",  the elder replied in the same manner.
Smiling, Nick took Natalie's arm and departed with her in the direction of the 
parking lot.

Nat had watched the interaction curiously. She had been astonished by the 
behaviour her two companions 
had shown throughout the evening so far. They had acted just normal. No 
significant glances, no secret 
touches as far as she had been able to observe. Being in public they had been 
acting just like friends. 
Nothing in their behaviour had hinted at the more intimate aspect of their 
relationship.

* * *

By the time Nick had returned to the loft, Lacroix had changed into his robe. 
The loft was lit by several 
candles and in front of the fireplace was a comfortable pile of blankets and 
pillows.
Nick took in the setting as he stepped out of the lift. Lacroix was busy in the 
kitchen, filling two goblets from a 
bottle.
Nick shed his tuxedo jacket and approached Lacroix who handed him one glass. 
Nick drained it in one 
swallow and handed it back to him. After placing it on the counter, Lacroix took 
his son by the hand and led 
him towards the fireplace. There he leaned close and gave him a lingering kiss 
on the lips. Nick responded 
eagerly.
After removing the tie, Lacroix unbuttoned Nick's vest and slid it from his 
shoulders. Then he turned his 
attention to the shirt, which soon joined the other items on the floor. Again he 
leaned in to capture his son's 
lips in a passionate kiss. Nick reached for the belt of Lacroix's robe, undoing 
the knot. The robe slipped from 
Lacroix's shoulders, revealing his bare body.
"How do you want me, Nicholas?", he asked in his smooth voice.
Nick swallowed. The mere question caused his eyes to turn golden.
"Rough or tender?", Lacroix continued.
"Tender", Nick replied after a moment of contemplating the possibilities.
He did not mind getting roughed up on occasion but tonight he was more in the 
mood for tender actions.
"Save rough for the next time", he added.
"As you wish", Lacroix whispered and motioned him onto the pile of blankets. 
Nick lay down and found his 
mouth again claimed by Lacroix. Then the elder moved towards his neck, licking 
and nibbling for a while at 
the skin that covered the vein. Nick bared his neck, wishing he would just bite 
into it. But instead the elder 
moved to Nick's shoulder, applying similar attention there. Nick's hands roamed 
across Lacroix's back and 
caressed the back of his neck.
Next Lacroix turned his attention to Nick's nipples, caressing the left one with 
his tongue until it hardened 
under the skilful touch. Simultaneously he used his fingers to stroke the other 
one until it responded equally.
Then he continued to kiss his way downwards, flicking his tongue in and out of 
Nick's belly button.
Upon finding his further way obstructed by the trousers, he paused a moment to 
look up into Nicholas' face 
who returned the glance expectantly.
Smiling he returned his attention to the belt and quickly relieved his son of 
his remaining clothes.
After gazing a moment at the object of his desire, causing his son to cry out in 
impatience, he tenderly licked 
his tongue along the length of it. Nick drew in a sharp breath that was released 
in desperate whimpers as 
Lacroix covered his length with feather light kisses. Nick clawed his hands into 
the blanket. Lacroix's 
ministrations felt wonderful but they did not help to ease the tension that had 
been steadily building in his 
groin.
He groaned in frustration as Lacroix's mouth left his current place and wandered 
up his belly again. But 
before he could mouth a complaint, he perceived a different sensation, realizing 
that his master was poised 
at his entrance.
"Yes, take me, Lucien!", he demanded.
Lacroix smiled at his child's impatience.
"You opted for tender, remember?", he reminded him in a teasing tone.
"I don't care", Nick cried out.
Then he sighed in bliss as Lacroix very slowly eased his way inside. After 
showering Nick's chest with soft 
kisses, Lacroix began to move, withdrawing slowly and sliding back in, each time 
a little more forceful and 
each time a little deeper.
Nick's groans intensified with each stroke. Every time he thought this would be 
the final, there was always 
the next one, deeper and more intense. His senses reeled in blissful overload 
and his muscles ached from 
sheer exertion.
Something urged him to take what he needed before he would pass out completely. 
Releasing a deep roar 
he sank his fangs into Lacroix's neck. Instantly he felt his own shoulder being 
pierced before his climax 
shuddered through him. He clung to his master, taking as much blood as he could 
get, not wanting the 
moment to end too soon.

His breathing was still somewhat ragged as the shuddering subsided. Their lips 
met in a passionate kiss.
"Take me again", Nick requested.
"Ah, my insatiable child", Lacroix replied amused.
"Please", Nick begged.
"Turn around", Lacroix whispered.
Nick complied and soon he found himself invaded by his master again. This time 
Lacroix simultaneously 
used a free hand to caress Nick's front, bringing them skilfully to the edge 
again. He offered him his other 
hand while he bit deeply into his shoulder.
Nick tore into the offered wrist, which triggered his climax. But it was not 
enough. After Lacroix had released 
him he turned and bit into his neck once more. Lacroix returned the bite with 
ardour, revelling in the desire 
he sensed in his son for his blood. Again and again they tore into each other's 
throat leaving a bloody trail of 
torn flesh in their wake. Finally exhaustion prevailed and they collapsed into 
each other's arms.

* * *

Natalie hesitated before stepping out of the lift. She hated it when she had to 
disturb Nick during the day, but 
unfortunately the situation left no other options. 

She had been called to a crime scene in the early afternoon and much to her 
shock discovered that it had 
been the theatre where they had spent the previous evening. A tight knot formed 
in her stomach as she was 
led to a spot in the orchestra, exactly beneath the same box where she had so 
enjoyed herself only 18 hours 
before. Slumped across several seats was the body of a woman. On the floor lay 
the scattered contents of 
her purse.
A cold dread came over her as she recognized the young woman she had met in the 
bathroom. Reaching 
out with shivering hands she turned the head to the side in order to get a look 
at the neck. To her relief she 
noticed that the skin was unscathed, but the neck was clearly broken. 

"Looks like she fell from the balcony and broke her neck on impact", she stated 
in a shaky voice. "I'm afraid 
you'll have to wait until I have her in the lab for more details."
"Dr. Lambert, are you alright?", Captain Cohen asked, concerned.
"I don't know", Nat replied, trying to get a grip on herself. "I was here 
yesterday and I met this woman shortly 
in the washroom after the performance. She seemed to be very moved by the play."
"Then you are probably one of the last people who saw her alive", Cohen said. 
"Could you come to the 
precinct for a statement after you are done with the autopsy?"
"Sure", Nat agreed. 

Captain Cohen turned towards an officer and pointed towards the box above.
"I want to know who had reservations for these boxes last night."
Natalie froze. Then she quickly excused herself, stating she would go ahead to 
prepare the lab.

Once in her car, she drove to the loft as fast as possible.

* * *

As she stepped out of the elevator she was greeted by darkness and eerie 
silence. The only source of light 
came from the glowing embers of the fireplace.
Carefully she made her way towards it. Her foot collided with something smooth 
on the ground, causing her 
to stagger against the couch. Regaining her balance she groped her way to the 
end table, intent on finding 
the lightswitch for the lamp.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you", a voice from somewhere on the floor spoke 
distinctly, causing her to freeze 
in her movements.
"Lacroix?", she asked after she had recovered. "What are you doing on the 
floor?"
"Nothing of your concern", he replied matter-of-factly.
Nat sighed in exasperation.
"Can I turn the light on now?", she asked slightly annoyed.
"No." The tone of voice tolerated no resistance.
"But I can't see anything", she complained.
"Exciting, isn't it?", the voice whispered suddenly close to her ear. "How the 
other senses go into overdrive 
when one is subdued. Especially the mind that conjures up all kind of images 
from the unknown and a 
tension is building inside you, caused by a certain anticipation of what I might 
do next."
Natalie's breathing had indeed quickened and she felt her mouth go dry.
"Ah, yes, I am sure you would enjoy such a game, Natalie", Lacroix whispered 
knowingly. "Perhaps another 
time. Right now I want you to remain just where you are. I will be with you in a 
few minutes."

Natalie took a deep breath, realizing that she had clawed her fingers into the 
couch.
She perceived a rustling on the floor, a muffled moan, followed by a "ssh", then 
a whooshing sound and the 
closing of a door upstairs.

* * *

Lacroix gently placed Nick onto the bed. Then he reached for his clothes and 
made a short dash into the 
bathroom.

* * *

Natalie gasped as the lamp beside her was suddenly switched on and she found 
herself face to face with 
Lacroix, dressed impeccably as usual. 
She blanched, however, as her gaze fell on a pillow on the floor that was 
covered with blood. Before she 
could utter a word of alarm, Lacroix kicked it unceremoniously under the couch. 
The he sauntered over to 
the kitchen and poured himself a glass. The rapid draining of the liquid stood 
in odd contrast to the ease his 
manners conveyed.

"And now I'd like to know what could possibly be so important that it justifies 
a disturbance at this hour?", he 
demanded.
Natalie swallowed.
"There's been a murder at the theatre. The Captain wants Nick there as soon as 
possible."
"I wouldn't count on Nicholas waking up any time soon", Lacroix stated.
"What have you done to him?", Natalie asked, more out of concern than curiosity.
"You do not really expect me to answer that in detail, do you?", Lacroix replied 
incredulously, causing Nat to 
blush.
"Ah, no", she stammered. "But why do you say he won't wake up any time soon? Is 
he ill?"
"No, Doctor, not ill", Lacroix replied amused. "Only exhausted."
"Uhu", Nat mumbled, not wanting to prod him for further details.
Then she found Lacroix's attention focused on the bedroom door.
"You might yet be lucky, Doctor. He is waking up. I will see what I can do."
Taking the bottle with him, he flew onto the gallery and vanished into the 
bedroom.

* * *

Nick stirred in his sleep.
"Nicholas", Lacroix called. "Nicholas, wake up."
"Lucien, what's wrong?", Nick asked drowsily.
"I'm afraid your second night off has been cancelled", Lacroix informed him.
"What?"
"Natalie is downstairs, saying something about a new case."
"But I can't", Nick protested. "Tell her to come back tomorrow."
"I tried but obviously your Captain is insisting on your appearance."
"But", Nick started again.
"I know", Lacroix said and opened his collar. "Take what you need."

Sinking his fangs into the offered neck, Nick drank in hasty swallows. After he 
had taken quite an amount, he 
let go of Lacroix, breathing heavily. Lacroix felt slightly dizzy and reached 
for the bottle he had placed on the 
nightstand.
"You know, I'm glad you opted for tender. Otherwise I'm not sure we could have 
made you fit for company in 
so short a time", he stated.
Nick's eyes turned gold by the mere implication of his words. Quickly he reached 
for Lacroix's neck again to 
take another few swallows.
"Better?", Lacroix asked.
Nick nodded.
"Good. Go, take a shower and get dressed before you join us downstairs."
Nick complied and stumbled into the bathroom.

Lacroix took a deep breath, then carefully made his way back downstairs.
Natalie wondered briefly why he took the stairs instead of flying as usual. Her 
brows furrowed as she 
watched him going into the kitchen again. He took a new bottle out of the fridge 
and filled a glass that he 
emptied quickly. Then he refilled it and drained it, too. After he had refilled 
it a third time he turned back to 
her.
"Nicholas will be here shortly", he informed her.
"Great", Nat said. "How did you -"
Her eyes fell on two pairs of fresh bite marks. That explained his sudden need 
for blood, she thought, 
suppressing a shudder.

* * *

When Nick appeared downstairs, Nat could only stare at him.

She had not been sure what to expect after Lacroix's rather alarming hints and 
the glimpse of the bloodied 
pillow she had caught before Lacroix had kicked it under the couch.

He looked absolutely ravishing. There was a gleam in his eyes and his movements 
expressed a liveliness 
she had rarely noticed before.

Lacroix observed with amusement the effect the sight of his son had on the good 
doctor.
He filled a second glass for Nicholas and passed it to him, immensely pleased 
when he remained leaning 
against him.

Natalie suppressed any feelings of jealousy and rattled down the elementary 
facts from the murder scene.
"Thanks for the warning, Nat", Nick said. "I'll come in shortly."
Feeling dismissed, Natalie stepped into the lift, glad to escape the awkward 
atmosphere.

* * *

Schanke replaced the receiver on the cradle and looked up into the expectant 
face of Captain Cohen.
"Forensics found an ID among the items that were scattered on the floor", he 
stated. "Her name is Roberta 
Mason, student at the University of Toronto. Apart from that they found a black 
men's handkerchief 
embroidered with a silver threaded L clenched in her fist."
"Interesting", Cohen stated. "Any sign from your partner yet?"
"I'm sure he'll be here any minute. In the meantime I'll start with the 
reservations list of last night's 
performance."
He breathed a sigh of relief when Cohen returned to her room.

Schanke scanned the names on the list he had received from the theatre. 
"Oh no, not again", he groaned as his eyes focused on a very familiar name.
Then he froze as a shadow fell over his desk. Looking up he saw his partner 
leaning over his shoulder, trying 
to get a glimpse of what had caught Schanke's attention.
"Let me guess, you were there as well", Schanke said.
"Uhu", Nick nodded.
"But your name is not on this list."
"Lacroix had reserved the entire box under his name."
"That means this list isn't complete at all", Schanke sighed.
"Probably not."

Captain Cohen approached their desk.
"Schanke have you compared the seating chart with the names on the list? I'd 
like to interview those first 
who sat in the boxes above."
"That would be us", Nick stated.
Cohen looked at him, surprised.
"Natalie did not mention that you were having box seats."
"We ---- were invited", Nick explained.
"The box was reserved under the name of Lucien Lacroix", Schanke provided.
"I see", Cohen remarked, immediately connecting the name with the letter on the 
handkerchief. "Then I want 
him here as well. I already told Natalie to come over when she's finished with 
the autopsy."
She turned and rushed back into her office.

With a sigh Nick picked up the phone and dialled a number.
"Your presence is requested", he said after the connection was made.
"No, officially", he added in a hushed tone, clearly embarrassed at the 
implications that were whispered into 
his ear.

* * *

Two hours later Nick, Schanke, Natalie, Lacroix and Captain Cohen were gathered 
around a table in the 
conference room.

"Mr. Lacroix, I suppose you did not attend the performance alone?", Captain 
Cohen asked.
"No, I had invited Doctor Lambert and Detective Knight to join me, as you will 
already know", Lacroix replied 
in a bored tone.
"I also know that the young woman must have fallen from your box. I advise you 
to take this seriously", 
Cohen admonished him. She picked up an evidence bag.
"Is this your handkerchief? We found it in the dead girl's fist. An odd 
coincidence, don't you think?"
"How unfortunate. I suppose that makes me your prime suspect, Captain?", Lacroix 
challenged.
"According to the preliminary report the time of death has been narrowed down to 
three hours after the 
performance ended. Can you provide an alibi for the time?"
"In fact, I can", Lacroix said, resting his gaze on Nicholas, who was getting 
more and more uncomfortable.
"I was spending the day in most pleasant company", Lacroix stated.
"Can you confirm that, Doctor?", Captain Cohen said, turning to Natalie.
Nat blushed, slightly confused why she was asked.
"Uh, I guess so, yes, Captain", she stammered while Nick shot her an incredulous 
look.
"Very well, that clears you for now, but I would advise you not to leave the 
city", Cohen said and exited the 
room, followed by Schanke.

"What?", Nat said as she noticed Nick staring at her.
"Nat, you just admitted to having spent the day with Lacroix", Nick said 
accusingly.
"I did not!", Natalie exclaimed, extremely upset. "I confirmed that you spent 
the day together."
"No, you did not. Lacroix's answer caused the Captain to think it was you whom 
he had spent the day with."
"Oh my god!", Nat cried out in shock, causing Lacroix to snicker in amusement.
"It seems I have to thank you for providing such a delightful alibi for me."

Then he turned serious again as he overheard Captain Cohen talking outside.
"I have a feeling that there is more to it", she said. "I want a surveillance 
team on him and Dr. Lambert."
Nick, who had also heard it, looked at Lacroix in alarm.

"What is it?", Nat asked, aware that she was missing something.
"It seems we are required to put on a little show for the benefit of your 
Captain", Lacroix said, slightly 
amused.
"What do you mean, what kind of show?", Nat asked.
"To convince her that my only ambition lies in the pleasant task of courting 
you, my dear."
"But -----", Nat began.
"Oh, you don't want to be accused of giving false statement, do you?"
Natalie's shoulders slumped down in defeat. Then she stood to leave the room.

"Nicholas?", Lacroix asked softly.
"Just don't make it look too real", Nick remarked sullenly.
"You are aware that we wouldn't be in this situation at all had you simply 
stated that it was you whom I spent 
the day with."
"I know", Nick admitted, anguish creeping into his voice. "I'm sorry."
"Then do not complain about the consequences", Lacroix demanded and rose to 
leave the room as well.

In the bullpen he went straight to Natalie, picked up her hand and raised it to 
his lips.
"I understand that you are finished here for tonight. Permit me to accompany you 
home", he said, causing 
Natalie to blush.
She chose not to comment, but grabbed her coat and headed out of the bullpen, 
very well aware that he was 
following her.

"Your keys", he requested when they had reached Natalie's car. 
"Why?"
"It will appear more gallant when I drive."
Nat regarded him doubtfully.
"You know how to drive?"
"In fact, I do. Although I prefer alternate transportation and rarely require 
the use of an automobile. I took the 
opportunity to acquire the appropriate skills on a Ford Model T if you must 
know."
"But you are aware that this is a slightly different model and does not need to 
be started by a crank", Nat 
pointed out.
He shot her a seething glare that caused her to hand over the keys immediately.
"But you do have a license, do you?", she ventured after he had opened the 
passenger door for her.
"I wasn't aware I needed one", he whispered. "I tend to buy my cars including a 
chauffeur."
Natalie groaned and clawed her hands onto the seat.
But much to her surprise Lacroix steered her vehicle effortlessly through the 
traffic, very aware of the 
surveillance car that followed in the distance.

When they had reached her apartment building, Lacroix rounded the car and opened 
the door for her. She 
grew slightly alarmed as he accompanied her to the door.
"What do you want?", she asked.
"To accompany you upstairs, of course. Or do you prefer that your Captain finds 
out that you lied to her?"
Natalie stared at him. Until now she had been playing along. But the thought of 
taking Lacroix with her into 
her apartment was more than she was prepared to do.
Swallowing she opened the door.
"Did any of you consider the damage this will do to my reputation?", she asked 
in annoyance.
"Yes, the thought has crossed my mind. Unfortunately Nicholas seems to be more 
concerned about his own 
reputation than yours, I'm afraid."

Once in her apartment she watched confusedly as he opened the balcony door.
"What are you doing?", she asked.
"I take my leave", he said in a neutral tone.
"Oh", she breathed, immensely relieved.
He turned back towards her, raising her chin with his fingertips.
"I hope you are not too disappointed. But I had not planned on spending the day 
here as I suppose that you 
have nothing else to offer than the bounty that blushes your skin. But I promise 
to return after sunset."
He stepped onto the balcony and was gone before the implication of his statement 
hit her.
With shaking hands she closed the door and prepared herself for bed.

* * *

"When Lacroix returned to his mansion he found his son pacing impatiently in the 
parlour.
"Is something wrong, Nicholas?"
"How did your handkerchief end up in the girl's fist?", Nick began in an 
accusing tone.
"That is beyond my knowledge. Perhaps she received it from Dr. Lambert when she 
met her in the 
washroom."
"And why would Nat have your handkerchief?", he asked upset.
"Because I offered it to her in a moment of need."
"What moment of need?"
"The opera, Nicholas. Didn't you notice how moved our guest was by the 
performance? One could say she 
literally cried her eyes out."
Nick looked a little lost.
"No, I didn't notice", he confessed. "I guess, I must have been entirely focused 
on the music."
"Obviously", Lacroix remarked in an amused voice which prompted Nick to smile at 
him sheepishly.
"I'm sorry", he apologized.
Lacroix gazed at him solemnly.
"Have you already forgotten our last lesson, Nicholas?"
Nick looked uncomfortably to the floor.
"No, but I can't help how I feel", he stated. Then he raised his head and looked 
at his master through golden 
eyes. "Could you explain that again?", he asked in a voice, rough with passion.

* * *

"Nick? May I ask you something?", Schanke asked while they were driving to the 
university on their next 
shift.
"Sure. What is it?", Nick asked in return, although he had a slight idea what 
Schanke wanted to know.
"Why?"
"Why what?"
"Why are you putting on this show with Nat and Lacroix? Somehow I don't believe 
that he was with her."
"Well, he wasn't."
When Schanke didn't comment Nick added, "He was with me."
"I thought so. But why don't you tell that to the Captain?"
"I already draw enough attention. I can't add another complication to my already 
odd eccentricities."
"But what about Nat? Have you considered what this is going to do to her?"
Nick's mood darkened slightly.
"Thanks to you, Schanke, there are already rumours about Nat and Lacroix running 
the grapevine."
"Hey, it was Grace who started it. So, don't blame me", Schanke defended 
himself.
Nick sighed and turned the Caddy towards the morgue.
"Let's check on Nat", he mumbled.

* * *

Nick and Schanke entered the morgue. Natalie's desk was decorated with a huge 
vase, containing a 
bouquet of white roses. Nick picked up the card that was stuck between the 
stems.
"My dear, allow me to express my gratitude for another day spent in such 
delightful company."
"I think he's exaggerating it a little bit", he stated with a scowl. "I should 
talk to him."
"Don't you dare", Nat objected. "A girl gets flowers rarely enough. I could as 
well enjoy the side effects of this 
arrangement."
"Are you sure?", Nick asked, concerned.
"Don't worry. I know he does that only to make me mad."

* * *

Schanke observed with concern that Nick's mood seemed to remain dark since he 
had seen the flowers.
They had questioned several people at the university and his partner had been 
rather monosyllabic and let 
him do the main questioning.
"We still have no clue how she could re-enter the theatre unseen by anyone. 
Everyone stated that the 
theatre was empty before it was locked up, which was at 12.30 am", he pointed 
out in an effort to rouse Nick 
from his gloomy thoughts.

After returning to the precinct, Nick's eyes lit up as he uncovered a single red 
rose under a pile of papers on 
his desk. He picked it up, inhaling the scent.
"Why is nobody sending me roses?", Schanke complained.

Nick quickly hid the rose beneath his papers when he saw Captain Cohen approach 
their desk.
"Anything new, gentlemen?", she asked.
"We talked to some people at the university. Her roommate mentioned that she had 
gone into a depression 
lately because of a relationship that had obviously ended. She never mentioned 
with whom she was involved 
but the roommate suspected that it was one of the professors", Schanke 
summarized.
"So, watching the opera deepened her depression and she committed suicide?", 
Cohen concluded.
"No, I don't think it was suicide", Nick stated. "Maybe someone wanted it to 
look like that. But the time frame 
doesn't work. I mean if she wanted to kill herself why wait until the theatre 
was empty?"
"That's a good point, Knight. Dig deeper and find out with whom she was 
involved."

* * *

The tingling sensation at her wrist alerted Natalie to Lacroix's presence inside 
the building. She prepared 
herself for a sudden appearance act and was surprised when he knocked politely 
at her office door.
"Look whom I found lurking in the hallway", Grace beamed at her, shoving Lacroix 
into her office.
Lacroix smiled at her benevolently and went to pick up her hand.
"Good evening, my dear. I trust you had a pleasant time at work?"
Nat returned a forced smile. 
"I'm afraid, I'm not finished yet. I might still be busy after sunrise."
"Nonsense, Natalie", Grace chirmed in. "Your reports can wait until tomorrow. 
And I can fax the tox report 
over to the precinct. You go and make yourself a nice morning with Mr. Lacroix."
Having fulfilled her mission she left the two alone. Natalie turned crimson at 
the suggestion.
"Very well, let's go and get this over with", she said in defeat and grabbed her 
purse and coat.
"Allow me", Lacroix said and helped her into her coat, which brought him to 
stand close behind her.
"You look delicious tonight", he breathed onto her neck.
Nat stepped deliberately away from him.
"Would you stop regarding me as food", she pleaded.
"I wasn't", he corrected sincerely. "I was merely paying a compliment."
"Oh", she said, clearly embarrassed. "Well, there's no need for that either as 
there's nobody around to hear 
it."
Lacroix sighed and followed her to the parking lot.

* * *

"Aren't you going to leave?", Natalie asked when they had entered her apartment.
"I'm afraid, I cannot. The sun has just risen", Lacroix replied undisturbed.
"But you can't stay here!", Nat said determinedly.
"And why not? I did not hesitate to offer you shelter in my home."
"That was different. You had enough rooms to accommodate several guests. This 
apartment is much 
smaller. There isn't any privacy."
"And who needs privacy?"
"I do."
"But my dear, you forget that I already know every detail about you since I have 
tasted your blood. So, I don't 
see any sense in privacy."
Natalie blushed at the reminder.
"But don't expect me to entertain you", she said.
"Oh, don't worry about that. It will be my pleasure to just watch you bustling 
around. I have always been 
curious how mortals pass their days."

Natalie stood a little indecisively in her kitchen. Actually she had planned on 
doing her laundry. But that was 
out of the question now. No way was she going to do that with him examining 
every piece of clothing.
"Am I interrupting your morning routine?", Lacroix inquired amused.
"Listen, I had a long day at work. I'm tired."
"Why don't you sit down and relax?", Lacroix asked.
Nat stared at him. Relax? In his company? Impossible.
"I don't think this is going to work", she stated.
"What are you usually doing after you come home from work?", he inquired 
curiously.
"I usually watch a movie before going to bed."
"Ah, interesting", Lacroix remarked and moved to her board with video tapes. 
"Let's see. Which one shall it 
be? Certainly no silly vampire movie. Why refer to a movie when you have reality 
only one step away?"
That was enough, Natalie fumed. She reached past him and picked out a tape 
randomly. She popped it into 
the recorder and sat down on the couch.
"How cute", Lacroix remarked as the credits of Disney's animated version of 
"Bambi" appeared on the 
screen. Natalie tried to ignore him as he took a seat in the armchair and 
concentrated on the movie.

Lacroix found it more entertaining to watch her reaction than the movie itself.
"Isn't it interesting how a children's movie stirs the same emotions as 
something grand like the opera?", 
Lacroix remarked dryly and offered Nat his handkerchief.
Damn, Nat cursed herself. Why did she always have to be crying during movies, 
and in front of him?
She took the handkerchief and blew her nose defiantly. Then she rose and headed 
towards her bedroom.
"Natalie", Lacroix called. "I'd appreciate it if my handkerchief does not turn 
up in the hands of a corpse 
again."
Nat turned and threw the tissue back at him.
Then she retreated into her bedroom and locked the door, ignoring his snickering 
laugh.

* * *

Nick stared at the clock on the mantlepiece. He knew it would be futile to wait 
any longer since his master 
had not returned before sunrise. He certainly would not appear now, three hours 
later.
Scowling, Nick padded upstairs and entered Lacroix's bedroom. He lay down on the 
large empty bed and 
hugged a pillow, inhaling his master's scent that lingered on it.

* * *

After taking a shower and finishing dressing, Nat carefully ventured out of her 
bedroom.
The sun had not yet set. She discovered him lying on her couch, obviously still 
asleep. Hesitantly she 
stepped closer to get a better look at him. His features were relaxed and bereft 
of all the arrogance that often 
annoyed her so.
"Do I pass the inspection?", he spoke suddenly, causing her to jump.
"How long have you been awake?", she asked, watching as he sat up in a smooth 
movement.
"Since your heartbeat quickened by whatever thoughts you were entertaining while 
running the shower."
He caught her hand before it collided with his cheek.
"Now is that any way to treat your guest?", he asked.
"You are not my guest, you are an intruder", she stated.
"Really? Well, in that case I might as well take my breakfast right here."
He brought her wrist to his mouth. With a yelp Natalie pulled her hand away, 
causing him to chuckle.
"Tell me one reason why I should not open the blinds", she said furiously.
"I could tell you plenty, but we do not want to start the evening exchanging 
unpleasantries, do we?" he asked 
with a charismatic smile.
Natalie swallowed. Then she turned on her heels and went into her kitchen, aware 
that he was following her.

She started her coffee maker and put a slice of bread into the toaster. From the 
corner of her eye she 
watched him pulling a bottle out of her fridge and wondered when he had stored 
it there. She reached into 
her cupboard and pulled out a mug for him.
"Thank you", he said and retreated into the living-room.
Nat let out a breath, then continued to prepare her breakfast.

When she had finished eating, she started to do the dishes, wondering if it may 
occur to him to help. Of 
course it did not. When she returned into the living-room, she found him reading 
her newspaper, while 
Sidney lay curled up beside him.

"I'm heading into work now", she announced. "Do you want to stay here the entire 
night?"
"Of course not", he replied and followed her downstairs to the parking lot.
"No, I'm going to drive", Nat said determinedly as he held out his hand for the 
keys.
"If you insist. You can drop me off at Yonge Street."

When Nat pulled up to the curb in front of Eaton Centre she noticed that the 
surveillance car also waited in 
the distance.
"Don't I get a goodbye kiss?", Lacroix asked.
"Get out!", Nat fumed.
Lacroix chuckled and opened the door.
"Until morning", he said. 
Then he was gone.
Natalie pulled back into traffic, noting that the surveillance car remained at 
the curb.

* * *

Lacroix entered  Eaton Centre, aware of the two plain clothes detectives who 
were following him. He strode 
towards a crowded area, made a few turns and exited through another door. When 
he was sure that no one 
was near, he took to the air.

* * *

When Nat entered the morgue, Grace looked at her expectantly.
"And? How was breakfast?", she asked with a knowing grin.
Natalie turned crimson at the suggestion implied by Grace's question.
"Grace, please. I'm not ready to talk about it", she stated. "Has the lab report 
come in?", she asked, changing 
the subject.
"Here it is", Grace replied, reaching for a paper. "Results revealed an 
increased level of carbon monoxide 
and a low pH-value in her blood. It seems that she was suffocated before her 
neck was broken."
"Then we can definitely rule out suicide", Nat concluded. "Have you informed the 
precinct?"
"Everything's sent out", Grace assured her.

* * *

Nick had to smile despite his dark mood as he overheard the conversation Cohen 
was having on the phone.
"We lost him in the crowd."
"Then set up surveillance teams at the club, the morgue and Dr. Lambert's 
apartment. He must appear at 
one of these places sooner or later."

"Nick?", Schanke broke into his concentration.
"What?", he asked as Schanke showed him a sheet of paper where a name had been 
circled.
"A Professor Atkins from the U of T and his wife attended the performance. Might 
be worth to pay them a 
visit next."

* * *

The address led them to an upper class townhouse. The door was opened by an 
elegant woman.
"Mrs. Atkins?", Nick asked. The woman nodded. "Metro Homicide. I'm Detective 
Knight, this is Detective 
Schanke. May we talk to your husband?"
"Is this about the girl that was found dead in the theatre?", Mrs. Atkins 
inquired in a cold voice. "We read 
about it in the paper. Please, take a seat in the parlour. I'll call my husband. 
But I'm afraid, he's not feeling so 
well tonight. You know, she was one of his students."
Schanke cast a significant glance at Nick. "Bingo."

A moment later a man entered the parlour. Nick detected a slight scent of 
alcohol on him as well as a very 
elated heartbeat.
"Is this about Roberta?", he asked, nervously drawing his hand through his hair.
"Yes. You knew her?", Nick asked.
"She, she was in my literature class."
"How well did you know her?", Schanke prodded.
"What are you implying?", Atkins asked in return.
"We have reason to believe that you knew her intimately."
Atkins looked more distressed by the minute. He rose and closed the door to the 
parlour.
"Listen, I'll tell this only once and I don't want it to become public. Yes, I 
had an affair with Roberta. But it was 
over. I told her that I couldn't see her anymore, that I would stay with my 
wife. Then she saw us at the opera. 
But I'd never think she would take her life."
He hid his face in his hands.
"Well, she did not", Nick informed him. "We have cause to believe that she was 
murdered."
"What?", he asked, clearly shocked.
"Mr. Atkins, where did you go after the performance?", Schanke asked.
"Into the bar, next door. I don't remember how long we stayed there. I guess I 
got pretty drunk."
"Thank you, Mr. Atkins. We have to ask you to stay in town for further 
questioning."

* * *

"Poor guy. One cannot blame him for his indiscretions with a wife like that. 
Cold as stone", Schanke said 
after they had left the house of Professor Atkins.
When he got no response from his partner, he turned to find him staring into 
space.
"Nick?", he asked, trying to get his attention.
"Ssh", Nick hushed him and drew him onto the grounds to the side of the mansion.
Schanke realized that the wall belonged to the living-room where they had sat 
only minutes ago.

His partner stood motionless with his eyes closed, concentrating.
He found the sight slightly unnerving and put a little distance between them.

Nick tried to ignore Schanke's elated heartbeat and focused on the voices inside 
the house.

* * *

"Elizabeth, they said it wasn't a suicide", he heard Atkins' voice.
"So what? It's not our concern, so stop talking about it!", his wife demanded. 
"It's already enough that you 
had to tell them about your affair."
"They seemed to know that already anyway."
"Did you tell them about the child, too?"
"No."
"Good. No one needs to know. You have done enough damage to our reputation 
already."

* * *

"Let's go", Nick said suddenly, causing Schanke to jump.

"Would you mind telling me what you did back there?", Schanke asked when they 
were inside the car.
"I listened to a conversation inside the house."
"Uhu. Anything interesting?"
"The usual banter between a jealous wife and her husband. Roberta Mason seemed 
to be pregnant. Did Nat 
confirm that?"
"Not that I know", Schanke replied.

* * *

Natalie entered the bullpen and headed for Cohen's office where Nick and Schanke 
were giving their reports.
"Captain? I just received the results from the lab. Roberta Mason was six weeks 
pregnant. According to her 
OB/Gyn she learned about the pregnancy two days before her death."
"Now, isn't that a motive?" Schanke asked. "She tells the professor about the 
child. He panics and decides to 
get rid of her."
"I don't think so, Schanke."
"What, Nick?"
"I don't think he killed her. I think it was his wife."
"Do you have any evidence to back this up?", Cohen asked.
"No, it's just a feeling", Nick replied absent-mindedly.

* * *

"Come on, tell me Nick, why do you think it was the wife?", Schanke prodded when 
they were driving to the 
bar Atkins had mentioned.
"As I said, it's just a hunch", Nick replied evasively.
"Based on what?", Schanke wanted to know.
"It's what I would do", Nick mumbled to himself.
Schanke wasn't sure if he had heard correctly.
"What did you say?"
"I said experience. I've seen it happen before", Nick corrected himself, aware 
of the doubtful glance he 
received from his partner.

* * *

Nick and Schanke entered the bar next door to the theatre. The barkeeper 
confirmed that Professor Atkins 
and his wife had been to his establishment after the performance.
"Did they behave odd in any way?", Nick asked.
"Nothing out of the ordinary. He got pretty drunk, while she only drank water. I 
suppose she had to drive."
"Ho long did they stay?"
"I guess about two hours. No wait, it must have been longer. I remember that she 
disappeared into the 
washroom for a considerable time."
"And that got your attention?", Schanke asked in disbelief.
"Only because she made such a fuss about her ruined dress. Said there was a nail 
in the wall of the stall 
door, where she got hooked."
"How long was she in the washroom?", Nick asked.
"Almost twenty minutes. I suppose she tried to fix her dress before coming out."
"And Mr. Atkins remained at the bar the entire time?"
"Yes, he was totally oblivious to everything around him."
"Thank you, Mr. Lester", Nick said. "Do you mind if we take a look into the 
washroom?"
"Go ahead. Just make sure nobody's inside before you enter."

Nick went immediately to the window in the washroom and opened it. It led into a 
dark alley. On the opposite 
side he could make out a similar milky glass window. Obviously the washroom from 
the theatre, he guessed. 
It wouldn't be difficult to leave the bar through this window and enter the 
theatre unobserved by anybody 
through the opposite window if one unfastened it beforehand. On the window sill 
he discovered a nail 
sticking out of the wood, probably the cause of the ruined dress.

Satisfied with his observation he returned to Schanke who had stood guard in 
front of the door.

* * *

They paid another visit to the theatre where Nick took a scrutinizing survey of 
the washroom. He decided 
that the window could easily be accessed by a mortal, even in an evening dress. 
Behind the door he 
discovered a closet, where cleaning supplies were stored. There was enough space 
for a body to fit in.

"Have forensics check out this closet", Nick said. "I think the body was stored 
here before it was thrown over 
the railing."
"You mean she was killed here and the killer returned later to arrange it like a 
suicide? Geez, how cold 
blooded is that?", Schanke said in disgust.
"With her husband in a drunken stupor Mrs. Atkins could easily return through 
the window. Then she 
dragged the body to the lift, went upstairs and pushed it from the nearest box, 
which happened to be 
Lacroix's", Nick concluded.
"Makes sense", Schanke commented. "But do we have any evidence that it was her 
or do you have to do 
that hypno thing again?", he asked uncomfortably.
"She must have torn her dress on the nail in the window frame. Forensics should 
check out if there are any 
fibres left. And we should get a hold on that dress."
"Okey, dokey, partner", Schanke said, immensely relieved, before making the 
necessary call to forensics.

* * *

Natalie was extremely glad when her shift ended and no unwelcome visitor had 
come to pick her up.
She drove home, contemplating which of the many things, she had postponed 
yesterday, to do first.
After storing her groceries, the ringing of her doorbell prevented her from 
beginning anything else. 
"Who might come to visit at four in the morning?", she wondered and opened the 
door.
Her spirits sank as a dark clad figure appeared on her doorstep.
"You could have mentioned that your shift ended earlier tonight", Lacroix 
scolded in a strenuous tone. "Miss 
Balthazar was terribly disturbed that I had missed you."
"Well, sometimes one needs time for other important things, which I have to do 
now", Nat replied, pointing to 
the balcony door. "There's the door. You can just go while it's still dark."
Lacroix raised his eyebrows at the impolite dismissal.
"Why do you waste your short life with such tedious tasks?", he asked, "when 
there are so much more 
entertaining pleasures in store."
"Because those other tasks are also necessary, especially when one has only 
limited time", Nat returned and 
watched bewildered as he calmly sat down on her couch instead of taking his 
leave. Immediately Sidney 
joined him and curled up beside him. Nat shook her head. Her cat was acting way 
too friendly with Lacroix.

"Haven't you anything else to do?", she asked.
"No", he informed her. "Nicholas is still busy playing cops and robbers, my show 
is finished and the club is 
closed for tonight. I am perfectly at ease to provide you company through the 
remaining night."
"But I don't want ---", Natalie began in a tired voice when she realized that 
all her protestations would be 
fruitless if he had made up his mind to stay.
He grazed her with a victorious smile and produced a small box.

"You've mentioned that you learned to play chess in your childhood. I was not 
sure if you owned a 
chessboard yourself, so I have taken the liberty to pick one up in a store I 
happened to pass tonight", Lacroix 
declared and opened the box to reveal a set of exquisitely carved figures. 
Natalie noticed the gothic design 
and wondered how much he must have paid for it.

"You want me to play chess with you?", she asked after she had found her voice 
again.
"I thought it might be a little more challenging than another of your motion 
pictures", Lacroix replied.
"But I told you I wasn't very good at it and I haven't played in years. I'm not 
sure if I still know how to", Nat 
protested.
"We will see", Lacroix said and began to set up the board.

"And how does your current investigation proceed?", he asked conversationally 
while Natatlie prepared 
some tea for herself. She told him what Nick and Schanke had discovered so far.
"I'd say it was the wife", Lacroix stated with conviction.
"How do you come to that conclusion?", Nat asked surprised. "Nick said the same, 
but nobody believes him."
Lacroix smiled inwardly.
"Of course he would say so. It's the only logical solution. She does not want 
her marriage destroyed. So she 
gets rid of the intruder. A simple tale of jealousy."


* * *

This time Mr. Atkins opened the door after Schanke had rung the bell.
"Oh, you again", he said. "Any news on Roberta's death?"
"You did not tell us about the pregnancy", Nick remarked, stepping into the 
parlour. "You did know about it, 
didn't you?"
Mr. Atkins looked uncomfortably to the ground.
"Yes, I knew", he confessed in a quiet voice. "She told me about it during the 
break. I think she thought I 
would change my mind and stay with her when she told me about the baby. However, 
before I could say 
anything, my wife joined us and told her to pay close attention to the second 
half of the performance if she 
needed advice. I wanted to talk to her the next day, but by then her death was 
already in the papers."
"We need to talk to your wife, Mr. Atkins", Nick said.
"She should be upstairs. I'll call her", he said and went to fetch her.

"You fool, there was no need to tell them about the conversation in the 
theatre", Nick heard Mrs. Atkins hiss 
at her husband before she entered the parlour.
"Good evening, Mrs. Atkins", he said. "We need to take a look at the dress that 
you wore that night at the 
theatre."
"I'm afraid, I don't have it anymore. You know it was ruined when I tore it by 
accident", she replied matter-of-
factly.
"Yes, we already know that it happened when you climbed through the window", 
Nick stated.
"What?", she exclaimed, for the first time showing cracks in her stoical façade.
"We do not need the dress. Your fingerprints on the window frames in the theatre 
and the bar will suffice to 
prove your way of entry", Nick informed her.
"What is he talking about, Elizabeth?", her husband asked alarmed.
"Mrs. Atkins, you are under arrest for the murder of Roberta Mason", Nick said.
"This is all your fault", she hollered at her husband. "I told you I wouldn't 
allow anything to taint your 
reputation."

Schanke watched in alarm as she pulled a gun from her pocket and aimed it at her 
husband. Pulling out his 
own gun, Schanke knocked her down, but not before she had managed to fire a 
shot.
He looked around and saw that Nick was covering Atkins' body with his own.
"She missed him", Nick told him in a hoarse voice.
Relieved, Schanke pulled out his cuffs and fastened Mrs. Atkins' hands behind 
her back.

* * *

Natalie gasped as Lacroix suddenly jumped from his seat. She found him in front 
of the window, staring out 
into the night.
"What is it?", she asked alarmed.
"Nothing, just a minor inconvenience", he stated, rubbing his shoulder absently. 
Then he resumed his seat, 
studying the board in front of him.

They had been playing for nearly an hour. Natalie found it a little frustrating 
that he made his moves almost 
immediately while she needed several minutes to contemplate on her next move. 
But at least she had 
managed to keep her king out of danger so far and even managed to win two of his 
pawns.

Still, the concentration was getting to her and she felt the beginnings of a 
headache.

* * *

While they waited for backup, Nick remained uncharacteristically silent.
"I need to make a quick stop at the loft", he announced when they were on their 
way back to the precinct.
"Anything to postpone the paperwork on that case", Schanke agreed. "We can't 
close it up anyway until 
ballistics have found the bullet."
"They won't find it", Nick said.
"Why?", Schanke asked, turning his attention on his partner.
"It's stuck in my shoulder."
"You got shot? Geez, Nick, why didn't you say something?"
"Too many people around", Nick replied.

He parked the Caddy outside the loft and proceeded towards the entrance, 
followed by Schanke.
"Is there anything I can do?", Schanke offered, not sure if he really wanted to.
Nick considered him a moment. Schanke's nervousness told him that his partner 
was clearly uncomfortable 
with the situation. But he had accompanied him upstairs. Perhaps it was best to 
let him deal with it.
"I might need your help with this one, Schanke", he said. "I can't reach it 
myself. Do you think you can dig it 
out?"
Schanke blanched at the prospect.
"I don't know. Perhaps you better call Nat or ---"
"No", Nick interrupted him. He did not want to be accused of getting shot 
deliberately only to have his master 
attending to his wounds.

He pulled a bottle from the fridge and took a long swallow. Then he handed 
Schanke a knife and tweezers 
before shedding his shirt. Schanke stared a moment at his partner's pale chest 
before his attention was 
drawn to the marred flesh at his shoulder. The skin had already begun to renew 
itself but the entry wound 
was still clearly visible.
"Just make a cut and dig it out", Nick instructed while sitting down on a 
kitchen chair.
"No disinfectant?", Schanke asked.
"No, I don't need that."
"But, what if it hurts?"
"Schanke", Nick said, slowly losing his patience. "It hurts like hell as long as 
it remains inside. So, please?"
"Sorry, Nick", Schanke apologized. "Ready?"
Nick nodded and squeezed his eyes shut.
He drew in a sharp breath as Schanke made a cut on his shoulder. His fists 
clenched while Schanke probed 
with the tweezers into the wound. He became acutely aware of Schanke's rapid 
heartbeat and realized that 
his fangs had dropped.
Finally he heard metal connect with metal and released the breath he had held as 
Schanke withdrew the 
instrument with the bullet.
Instantly he grabbed the bottle and emptied it hastily. Only when the red haze 
had left his eyes did he 
become aware that Schanke stood frozen in front of him.
"Thank you, Schanke. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have bothered you with this."
"You could have given me a warning", Schanke replied, trying not to sound too 
shaken by the sudden 
change he had just witnessed in his partner.
Then his gaze fell back to the wound that was healing while he watched.
"There won't be any scar?", he asked.
"No, in an hour it will look as good as new", Nick replied, glad that Schanke 
had regained his composure.
"Then how did that happen?", Schanke asked curiously, pointing to a long scar at 
his side.
"That's from before", Nick explained. "Sword fight during the Crusades."
"Weird", Schanke murmured.

Nick stood and picked up his shirt.
"I need to sleep", he announced. "You are welcome to stay the day."
Without waiting for a reply he ascended the stairs and vanished into his 
bedroom.

Schanke stood indecisively in the kitchen.
Would Nick be disappointed if he left? His own car was still at the precinct. He 
would have to take the Caddy 
and he did not want to deal with Nick's ire should he cause a scratch. It had 
frightened him to hell a few 
years ago and at that time he had not even known what he knew now.
Was it safe to stay? He had done it several times before and never felt 
threatened by Nick, except that he 
had seemed extremely annoyed at the prospect of having him stay here.
Perhaps it was time to rebuild some trust, he thought and plopped down on the 
couch.

* * *

"Checkmate", Lacroix announced.
Natalie released an audible breath in defeat.
"Sometimes it's the apparently insignificant moves that should not be 
underestimated. Their sense often 
remains undiscovered until the prize at the end reveals that every single move 
has had its purpose in 
achieving it", he lectured. 
"Listen", Natalie announced, suppressing a yawn. "I really need to sleep now."
"As you wish", Lacroix said graciously.

Too absorbed in their game, Natalie had not noticed that the sun had risen. 
Belatedly she realized that 
Lacroix was stuck in her apartment for another day.

* * *

Once alone in her room her former annoyance at the entire situation returned and 
kept her awake. She 
decided not to let her daily schedule be ruled by a vampire.
At four in the afternoon she donned her robe and pulled the vacuum cleaner out 
of the closet.

* * *

Lacroix was startled awake by a horrendous noise.
Immediately alert he flung himself on the mortal that was responsible for it.
Grabbing her with one arm he used his other to pull the plug out of the socket. 
The apartment fell silent again 
except for the rapid beating of Natalie's heart.

"That, my dear Natalie, was a mistake", Lacroix hissed and dragged her towards 
the light switch. After he 
had turned off the light, the apartment was cast in total darkness.

Natalie realized that this might not have been one of her brightest ideas.
She struggled in vain to free herself from his embrace which felt much more 
intense in the dark. She became 
aware that she was only wearing a thin nightgown under her robe which caused her 
to feel terribly exposed 
to his touch.
"Let me go!", she hollered.
"Ssh", he hushed her.
The feeling of his breath on her neck caused her to shiver uncontrollably.
To her horror she felt her body responding to the ministrations he applied on 
her neck. He let her know that 
he noticed by inhaling deeply.
"Tell me, Natalie", he whispered right into her ear. "Is this what you imagined 
under the shower yesterday?"
She felt her skin blush and hoped he would not notice in the dark.
"Is it?", he repeated his question and pressed her tighter against him.
"Yes", she whispered and gasped as she felt his lips on her neck.
He grazed her taut skin with his fangs, sucking alternately at the vein without 
breaking the skin.
Natalie was breathing heavily and realized that she yearned for his inevitable 
bite.
Instead he pulled her arm towards his mouth and sensuously licked his tongue 
across the scar. The tingling 
sensation that usually alerted her to his presence intensified all of a sudden, 
eliciting a moan from her.
When his mouth returned to her neck, she couldn't hold back any longer and 
groaned in pleasure as her 
body erupted in a shuddering release.

After she had regained her senses, she noticed that the hold on her body had 
lessened. Summoning all of 
her remaining strength she bolted from him into her bedroom and locked the door.

When Natalie ventured out of her room after dark, he was gone.

* * *

As Nick came downstairs he couldn't help but smile at the all too familiar scene 
at his kitchen table.
Schanke sat in front of a plate that was covered with eggs and toast.
"I did some shopping. I hope you don't mind that I used your kitchen", he 
explained.
"Not at all. I don't have much use for it myself", Nick said and joined him at 
the table, where he found a mug 
and a bottle waiting for him.
Giving Schanke a surprised look he filled the mug and took a deliberate swallow.
"Thank you, Schanke", he said, moved by the gesture.

* * *

Natalie drove to the precinct where she spotted Nick and dragged him into a 
conference room.

"Nat, is everything all right?", Nick asked concerned as he noticed her fatigue.
"No, nothing is alright, Nick!", she replied. "He's driving me nuts, he's 
keeping me from house work, I can't do 
anything without him sticking his nose in. If he camps out one more day on my 
couch, I'm going to open the 
blinds."
Nick looked at her, appalled. He had never seen her so upset.
"But Nat ---"
"No buts, Nick. You either go tell Cohen that this was all a misunderstanding or 
you can scrape his ashes off 
my couch."
Nick swallowed.
"I'll talk to him."
Then he opted for a tactical retreat.

Once in his car, he opened his cell phone.
"We need to talk", he announced after the connection was made.
"You know where to find me, Nicholas", came the reply.
"Can't we just meet on a roof?"
"Nicholas, I'm in the middle of my show. How do you think it would look to your 
colleagues if I simply left?"
Nick sighed.
"Okay, I'll be by before sunrise."

* * *

Natalie drove home, observing the pre-dawn sky with satisfaction. Her hopes of 
an undisturbed morning 
were however shattered when a familiar voice addressed her in the hallway.
"You are late. I thought we could continue our game from yesterday", Lacroix 
said casually.
"Don't even think about it", she objected and opened the door to her apartment.
"Why so upset?", Lacroix replied amusedly. "Actually I was referring to our game 
of chess."
In an attempt to hide her blush, Natalie went straight into her bedroom, locking 
the door.

Before Lacroix could make a comment he heard an urgent rap on the balcony door. 
He went to open it, 
amused to find a slightly smoking Nick standing outside.
"Nicholas, how nice of you to drop by", he said, closing the blinds carefully 
after his son had stepped into the 
living-room.
"Why are you doing this?", Nick asked.
"Doing what?", Lacroix returned, raising his eyebrows.
"There's no need for you to stay here during the day. You could just leave 
through the balcony door."
"But I find the proceedings here so entertaining. Besides, Dr. Lambert's work 
detained her almost until 
sunrise. We were glad to make it here at all."
"But I miss you!", Nick blurted out.
"Ah, so this is what this is all about. Then you should consider explaining the 
situation to your Captain."
Nick let his shoulders slump.
Lacroix reached out and pulled up his chin.
"Why is it so hard, Nicholas? Your partner already knows and he seems to have no 
problem with that part."
"But he knows the entire truth. My colleagues already gave me funny looks when 
you picked me up from 
prison. I draw enough attention by never participating in any common events or 
joining them in the lunch 
room. I don't need another thing to set me apart."
"But this peculiarity would explain a few other things that do not match up with 
the image of the ordinary 
mortal cop you profess to be."
"What other things?", Nick asked.
"For example why you appeared to be immune to the charms of your female co-
workers. They certainly must 
have noticed your reluctance."
"But I was not immune", Nick protested. "I just did not want to harm them."
"I know that, but they do not. Certainly they have made up their own theories 
why that is so and I doubt that 
anyone includes your explanation."
"You mean they think I'm gay?"
"I would at least consider that possibility."
"No, someone would have mentioned something. This would have been a feast for 
the grapevine."
"You should give your co-workers a little more credit, Nicholas. People are more 
open-minded nowadays. 
There is no cause for aspersions if someone prefers the same gender."
"I'll think about it", Nick conceded.
"And while you do so, why don't you join me on the couch?", Lacroix said, 
pulling him with him.
"A pity that Dr. Lambert has this large bed all to her own while we have to put 
up with this narrow place, isn't 
it?"
"I doubt she'd be delighted if we used her bed", Nick whispered. "And I don't 
mind narrow", he added, 
snuggling close to his master.
"She won't be delighted to find blood spots on her couch either", Lacroix 
remarked.
"We'll have to be careful then", Nick replied and bent down to caress his 
master's neck.

* * *

When Natalie appeared from her room in the evening she stopped dead in her 
tracks as she noticed two 
visitors on her couch. They lay in a tight embrace, Nick half on top of Lacroix. 
The elder had his arms around 
his son, holding him possessively in place.
"I should take a photo and pin it on the bulletin board. And all my problems 
would be solved", Nat thought.
She did not dare to approach any further as she was not sure how Nick would 
react when he woke up. She 
had learned by now that his stomach usually woke a couple of minutes earlier 
than his common sense. And 
she certainly wanted to spare herself the consequences of accidentally waking 
Lacroix.
So she silently made her way into the kitchen and prepared her breakfast.

* * *

A hiss from Sidney caused her to turn around. Startled she found Nick staring at 
her with an expression on 
his face that could be described as hostile.
"Nick?", she asked, relieved to see his features soften. "When did you come in?"
"He came blown in with the morning sun, so to speak", Lacroix said and joined 
Natalie in the kitchen, where 
he pulled a bottle from the fridge. She handed him two mugs which he filled 
before returning into the living-
room. Nick watched the interaction with a frown on his face.
Silently he accepted the mug from Lacroix. 

"I hear your case is closed, Nicholas?", Lacroix asked.
"Yes, the Professor's wife has confessed that she killed the girl in an attempt 
to save her marriage."
"And have you come to a conclusion how you will solve our current dilemma?"
"Perhaps", Nick replied cryptically. After a pause he added, "I'll talk to the 
Captain."
Lacroix curved his lips in approval.
"In that case I will be expecting you at my mansion by morning."

* * *

Nick hesitantly entered Cohen's office.
"Captain, I need to talk to you about something", he began.
"Yes?", Captain Cohen asked.
"It's about Lacroix. He ---", Nick broke off and concentrated on Cohen's 
heartbeat instead.
"You will call the surveillance team on Natalie and Lacroix back. There is no 
need to follow them any longer."
Cohen stared at him, bewildered.
"I don't understand, Nick. There is no surveillance team on him or Dr. Lambert."
"What?", Nick exclaimed.
"I'm sorry, but I have no idea what you are talking about. Why should I order a 
surveillance team on them?", 
Cohen said with a blank expression on her face that rose a suspicion in Nick.

* * *

When Nat entered her apartment in the morning she let out a shriek as she was 
suddenly grabbed from 
behind before she could turn on the light. Her cat let out an angry hiss at the 
commotion.
A hand clamped onto her mouth, preventing her from uttering any further sounds.
Still she moaned against the hand as she felt a tongue on her throat.
The hand left her mouth to pick up her arm where she felt smooth lips caressing 
her scar.
"Lacroix, not again", she pleaded and cried out in pain as she felt a bite into 
her wrist that was anything but 
gentle.
As soon as it had begun the sucking stopped and she found herself on the floor 
while a cold breeze from the 
open window informed her that he was gone.

Nat scrambled to the light switch and regarded the damage. Her wrist was 
bleeding freely and she quickly 
retrieved her medical bag to place desinfectant and a bandage onto the wound.

Had he not said this would be pleasurable, Nat wondered angrily. Instead she had 
felt nothing but pain and 
fear.

* * *

"What have you done with the Captain?", Nick demanded to know as he faced 
Lacroix in his parlour.
"Excuse me?", Lacroix asked, rising from his seat.
"What happened to the surveillance team?"
"Oh, I dismissed them on the third night. I found their presence rather 
limiting. Then I convinced your Captain 
to forget about the entire affair", Lacroix explained undisturbed.
"On the third night?", Nick asked exasperated. "Why did you continue your 
charade with Nat then?"
Lacroix smiled at his agitated child and brushed his hand along his cheek.
"Because it triggered something in you that I find irresistible", Lacroix 
stated.
"I'm not sure if I like that", Nick replied, but he leaned into the touch, 
savouring the closeness he had missed 
during the previous days.

Lacroix led Nick up the stairs and paused in front of the bedroom door.
"Are you in the mood for a special treatment?", he inquired casually.
Nick looked up at his master, a shiver of anticipation running through him.
"Yes, what did you have in mind?"
"Ah, it would spoil the experience if I told you aforehand", Lacroix replied 
cryptically. He reached into his 
pocket and withdrew a blindfold.
"The essential point is that you do not know what awaits you behind that door", 
he continued while he 
covered Nick's eyes with the silken cloth.
Nick swallowed. His growing excitement manifested itself in the tightening of 
his groin.

Lacroix took him by the hand and led him into the room. After closing the door 
with a sharp report he turned 
back to his son.
Nicholas stood proud in the middle of the room, eagerly waiting for his master's 
next move.
Lacroix leaned close and captured his lips in a passionate kiss. Then he turned 
his attention to his shirt and 
undid the buttons in a few quick motions.
Nicholas stood still as the shirt slipped from his shoulders, exposing him to 
the gaze of his master. Lacroix 
wasted no time to expose more of his son as he reached for the belt. Soon he had 
relieved him from his 
remaining clothing.

"Hmm, you look delectable, mon fils", Lacroix whispered in approval.
"Aren't you going to touch me?", Nick inquired when nothing else had happened so 
far.
"Do you wish to be touched?", Lacroix asked in a seductive whisper.
"Yes", Nick breathed.
"Later", Lacroix stated, causing Nick to frown. "For now you may imagine how I 
will touch you."
Nick drew in a sharp breath as the effect of his imaginations was clearly 
evident on his body. It seemed his 
entire front was tingling from need to be actually touched.
"You are doing very well, my son", Lacroix said approvingly.
In the meantime he had shed his own clothes.
From a drawer he retrieved two silken scarves which he wrapped around Nick's 
wrists. He allowed the ends 
to touch Nick on purpose, causing a ticklish sensation.
"Let's move to a more comfortable position", Lacroix suggested and pulled him 
towards the bed.
"On your stomach", Lacroix commanded as Nick moved to lie down on his back.
"On the front?", he asked a little disappointed as this position meant that he 
still won't be touched where he 
needed it most.
He complied though and gasped as his sensitive skin came in touch with the 
surface of the bed. Not the 
smooth satin sheets he was used to but a very rough towel.
Suddenly his imagination went into overdrive as his mind focused on what this 
rough cloth might do to him 
should he be able to rub himself against it.
While he still lingered on his thoughts he found his arms spread and tied to the 
headboard. Then a pillow 
was shoved beneath him, consisting of an equally rough surface. His pelvis was 
levitated causing his weight 
to rest on his chest. Any movement would now result in his nipples being brushed 
across the towel.
"I believe it won't be necessary to bind your legs", Lacroix remarked. "I am 
sure you will spread them most 
willingly."
Nick did so eagerly, curious what might follow next.
"Are you comfortable?", Lacroix inquired almost concerned.
"Not really", Nick mumbled.
"Good. Then I will see what I can contribute to that."
He was suddenly on his back, demanding entrance.
Nicholas screamed as he found himself invaded so unexpectedly.
Lacroix withdrew slowly before slamming back inside, the momentum sliding Nick 
across the rough surface, 
causing a delicious friction on his front. He screamed again at the unexpected 
sensation.
Lacroix repeated the movement, always giving him time to perceive the sensation 
on his front.
"More!", Nick begged as Lacroix had waited a little too long with his next 
stroke.
Lacroix complied immediately, eliciting another scream of pleasure from 
Nicholas. It spurned Lacroix on to 
intensify the force of his strokes. Nicholas' screams soon became throaty 
groans. His entire front was 
burning like hell from the friction and yet he was eager for the next stroke.
Lacroix drove himself to the edge, Nicholas' groans of pleasure were music to 
his ears. Nick thought he 
would lose consciousness from the sheer bliss he received through his master's 
actions. When the tension in 
his groin had tightened into an unbearable knot he found an arm shoved in front 
of him.
With a throaty roar he bit into it. Lacroix pressed his wrist against Nicholas' 
mouth, levitating him at the same 
time to give him better access to the neck. He gave one more stroke before 
biting into the neck.
Nick shuddered in ecstasy as his release overwhelmed him. He moaned against 
Lacroix's arm, his entire 
body shaking in bouts of pleasure. Lacroix held his child until the last 
trembling had ceased and he passed 
out.

Lacroix smiled in contentment that his little plan had worked out well. He had 
considered the past days as an 
extended phase of foreplay during which the anticipation of their next encounter 
had been gradually building. 
It had been worth the lack of contact when the inevitable reunion was so much 
more fulfilling. 

* * *

Nat was bent over her microscope when she became aware of the tingling sensation 
in her arm.
"Lacroix, how dare you ---", she began, turning around and stopped in 
midsentence as she gazed into Nick's 
unreadable face.

FIN