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"I cannot fucking believe it. We did it!" Frankie exclaimed with excitement as he slung an arm around her shoulders.Jane couldn't believe it either.When Coach Deville asked her to join the men's high school basketball team last year, Jane was surprised. She knew her speed and 3-Pointers were terrific, but being the sole girl on the basketball team filled with meat-headed jocks was something that hadn't appealed to her.But after being pestered by her brother, who was a player on the team, Jane relented and joined.When news came out, the Boston Breakers were openly shocked at the move and initially showed displeasure at her joining.However, Thanks to Jane's skills and her synergy with Frankie, their team went on an undefeated streak that her school had never seen, and those feelings of displeasure had melted away into a comradery that only made them better.And tonight, it all came to a head when she scored the winning shot to take their team to New York for a nationwide tournament.Something their team had never been to…until now."Fucking 3-Shot Rizzoli pulled it off!""The Ace of Boston High strikes again!""The Sniper and Bullet of Boston High! You guys rule, baby!"Jane couldn't help but grin as she walked through the parking lot, wearing a simple blue tank top and her brown and gold basketball shorts while Frankie walked beside her with the largest smile she had ever seen on his face. "Man, this is so fucking crazy," Frankie said with a wide grin."Same here. My body still won't stop buzzing," Jane admitted."Man…Ma and Pops are so going to freak out when we get to the car. A week in New York with a chance to win big bucks for the school," Frankie breathed with stars in his eyes. "We've never been to New York before…I mean, we get to see the Empire State Buildings. The Towers, the museums, the girls, and the best part, no parents!""I bet Ma decides to try and chaperone," Jane said, which instantly deflated Frankie's jubilant mood, which caused her to laugh. "Besides, we're there to win the tournament. We shouldn't be distracted by that.""Jeez, sis, do you have to suck the fun out of this trip?" Frankie dryly asked."Gotta keep it all real. You know that," Jane replied. It wasn't that she was trying to suck the fun out of it. If anything, she was excited by the same thoughts he had, but unlike her starry-eyed sibling, she had to keep her expectations in check.Besides, despite her excitement, she was a little disappointed as well. Her now ex-boyfriend Casey had recently left school to join the army, and her best friend Frost was forced to move thanks to his father's job in the military.Neither of them was here to see her win for her team, but she had won it for them, and one day, she hoped they would see her play again."Come on. We better get going. I bet Pops is already prepping his stomach for the victory buffet," Jane said as she nudged her shoulder against Frankie's, which caused her younger brother to snort and run alongside her.Once the pair made it to the car, Jane couldn't help but mimic the look of dread that was on Frankie's face when they saw their coach leaving their mother at the car, and judging from the grin on her face; it was apparent what the coach had just asked."Oh, congratulations, you two! We are going to New York!" Angela exclaimed as she scooped the pair up in her arms.Frankie shot Jane a distasteful look behind their mother's back while Jane looked apologetic before Angela pulled away, causing the pair to match her grin."I guess Coach just told you?" Jane deduced."He sure did. He just asked if Frank and I wanted to escort, but since Frank has….work and Tommy is still sick, I decided to take Coach Deville on his offer and go with you two! Oh, this will be so much fun!" Angela happily exclaimed."Yeah…Gonna be fun, fun, fun," Frankie droned.Jane snorted in amusement."We leave next week Saturday, so you two better start packing right away once we get home," Angela told them with a pointed stare at Jane."What?!" Jane exclaimed after noticing the stare."You heard me. The second we get home," Angela told her."Fine, fine," Jane said with a slight grin.Even her Ma's pestering couldn't bring her mood down.She was going to New York."Are you feeling any better?"Maura Isles winced as the bright light from the hallway lit up her darkened room. All she could see was the shape of her mother's shadowed form in the doorway.Maura had recently been taken out of school due to an unsavory situation. Her peers tossed some cruel words her way, and when they grabbed her, she saw red.She didn't mean to break her classmate's nose, but the brief burst of anger had caused her to react without thinking, and now, she'll probably be picked on some more.At least her mother understood what had occurred and held no ill will towards her, but there had to be more to life than this, right?"I will be fine, Mother…" Maura softly answered. "Thank you for asking…""You do not need to thank me for that," Her mother replied. "The reason I came is for two reasons. Dinner is ready. I had Lloyd make your favorite meal and dessert, and also, since you are currently out of school for the next week, I wish for you to accompany me to New York for my latest art exhibit."New York.It had been ages since she had gone to the city of lights.And while Maura loved being in France, it would be nice not to have to speak French every single day. But this, combined with Lloyd cooking her favorite foods, felt more like a reward than a punishment.Did she deserve such a lavish trip and food? She knew her mother was expecting an answer, so with a small smile, Maura said, "I'd like that, Mother…Thank you…""Very good," her mother replied before she walked out of the room.It looks like she was going to New York.Jane didn't know where the time went.One week, she had won her team the game, and the next, she was woken up for her flight by Frankie."Shit, shit, shit!" Jane exclaimed as she rushed around the room, packing her clothes in a large-sized black suitcase."Ma is going to be pissed that you waited until now to pack," A young voice teased. Jane looked up from her frantic packing to see her youngest brother Tommy watching her with amusement, his nose slightly running. "I wonder if I should tell her now…""Get bent, dork!" Jane said, launching a pillow toward the wall beside his head, which caused him to cackle as he ran off.She loved Tommy but damn it, could he be annoying."Jane, the cab is almost here. Are you ready to go?!" Angela's voice shouted from downstairs just as Jane closed her suitcase, sweat dripping down her face."Coming!" Jane shouted back as she darted into the bathroom for a quick three-minute shower, tossed on a black Red Sox hoodie, a pair of jeans with ripped-up knees, and black and red sneakers before she reached for her most cherished item.It was a pocket watch necklace with a see-through covering with brass pink flowers etched on the top covering. The clock no longer worked, and the pink flowers faded, but Jane adored this necklace.She placed the necklace over her hand and let it dangle around her neck before she grabbed her headphones and Walkman tossed them both into her hoodie pocket and lugged her now heavy suitcase out of her room and down the stairs where her folks, Tommy and Frankie stood waiting."Waited until the last second?" Angela asked.Jane sighed.With a smug grin, Angela held out a hand to both Franke and her dad, both of which grumbled and handed her twenty dollars each. "Thanks, sweetie," Angela said with a wink, which caused Jane to look at her with bemusement."Anytime," Jane drawled.The cab soon arrived, and after saying their goodbyes, they were quickly off to the airport. "So…Any idea what hotel we're staying at?" Jane asked.She watched as her mother tilted her head thoughtfully before she reached into her purse and pulled out a piece of paper, and after a moment of reading, she blinked in surprise."The Four Seasons," Her mother answered with surprise."Whoa! That's super fancy. What room?" Frankie asked."Room? We got a suite, honey," her mom replied with shining eyes. "The Gotham Suite at that.""Like Batman's Gotham?" Frankie asked."No moron," Jane replied as she bopped her brother on top of his head. "But that does pose the question. Did all of our teammates get suites?""We'll find out when we get there," Her mother answered.Jane nodded but felt weird about this choice. If her family was getting this swanky suite from a well-known and high-priced hotel, it would only be fair if her teammates got the same courtesy…She shrugged and withdrew her headphones, placed them over her ears, and pressed play on her Walkman. Jane then shut her eyes and let the melody of Queen's "Somebody to Love" set her mood.They had a long while until they reached the airport, so she might as well get a small nap in."We are here, dear."Maura opened her eyes and looked around with a dazed expression. They were on that flight for ten hours, and it was a brutal one that was filled with turbulence which caused some mid-sleeping panic within her, so she was barely able to keep her eyes open."In New York?" Maura questioned, her voice thick with exhaustion. Her mother nodded, and despite her exhaustion, Maura's eyes lit up in excitement."Where are we staying this time? I hope it isn't the St. Regis New York," Maura said with a frown. She used to like that place, but that was the hotel where her mother and father had their big blow-up, and it was sad that she couldn't stay at such a beautiful place due to that ugly memory."No…I've had enough of that hotel for a lifetime," Constance said with a slight frown. "No, we are staying at your favorite hotel.""We're staying at the Four Seasons?" Maura asked happily. Out of all the hotels they stayed in when they came to New York, the Four Seasons was her favorite one. Due to the closeness of Central Park and the Madison Avenue Shopping area, it was the very first hotel her parents took her to back when they were together.It was strange to have such an attachment to a building, but Maura didn't mind as much as she figured. "We sure are. The Royal suite, of course," her mother replied. "I figured with the rough time you've had as of late; this should bring your spirits up.""It certainly has, Mother. Thank you," Maura happily replied.It was so strange their relationship now. Back when her father was with them, there was a noticeable distance between them, but her mother had become warmer towards her after her father left.It led Maura to believe that her father was why the distance existed, and yet, she didn't know why.And she didn't know if she ever wanted to find out.The pair soon got off her mother's private plane and made their way onto their ride, which was a black limousine just as it started to rain, and soon, they were off to the Four Seasons.The ride from the JFK Airport to the hotel was thankfully a short one at twenty-eight minutes with some moderate traffic, which suited Maura just fine. She was aching to get out of moving vehicles and sleep on a comfortable bed.Once the limousine stopped, the door opened, and her mother, followed by herself, got out of the vehicle, and found herself smiling at the familiar structure. Once they entered the building, Maura felt herself marveling at the lobby.With its marble floors, giant pillars, and cathedral-height ceilings, along with the warm lighting, she truly felt at home. She hoped that when she had her own home, Maura could have something that replicated the serene feeling she got from the lobby."Wow, it's fairly crowded here," she heard her mother note curiously.Maura looked ahead and saw many families were waiting in the lobby. She was used to seeing adults with a rare child at the Four Seasons to see a large number of teens her age was surprising. "It must be an event," Maura theorized."Hm…" her mother replied.Maura knew that tone well.She was displeased."Very well," her mother said after a moment. "I already set our reservation here. And the other hotels are bound to be the same. Might as well deal with it."Maura nodded in agreement as she continued to look around. She wouldn't say it out loud, but she was mildly disappointed too. She wasn't expecting so many people her age here, and there was no doubt that they would treat her the same way all of her peers did at school.She wanted some time away from kids her age, but she would make the best of her time here with her Mother. After ten minutes of waiting, they were finally at the front desk, where a woman with a black business suit, blue eyes, and strawberry blonde hair, currently tied into a ponytail, sat with a significant smile."Well, aren't you a sight for sore eyes, Miss Isles," the woman said, her faint southern accent hitting Maura's ear."Hello Kimberly," Her mother greeted with a grin of her own."It's good to see you again, Constance," The woman, Kimberly said as a smile formed on her face. Maura had never seen Kimberly before, but apparently, her mother knew her. She would have to ask about her lately."Same to you," her mother replied."I saw posters and commercials for your upcoming event and knew you'd be back, but I was shocked that you would come here to my humble establishment but made sure my face was the first one you'd see in this building when I was told," Kimberly confidently told her."It's a face sorely missed, Kim," her mother said with a grin. "Besides, my daughter is with me, and she loves this hotel; I figured I'd return," Her mother replied."Whew, that is good," Kimberly replied before the blue-eyed woman glanced down at Maura herself. "And you must be Maura…You are certainly gorgeous.""Thank you," Maura replied with a small smile.Kimberly smiled back before she looked back at her mother and said, "Well, you're just in time. They finished your suite twenty minutes ago, so here are your keys..." Kimberly handed her mother the key card, but Maura saw a medium-sized ripped piece of paper being given to her along with it.What was that about?"And when you're ready, we'll send up what you requested," Kimberly said with a smile."Thank you, Kimberly," Her mother replied with a smile before she motioned for Maura to follow along.Maura nodded and began to walk behind her mother, her eyes gazing out at the large group of teens still in the lobby waiting to be checked in before she turned away. "So what do you wish to do now?" her mother asked curiously."I want to go shopping," Maura happily replied.Her mother laughed and said, "Let's get our luggage to our room, and I'd be happy to get some shopping done."After taking an elevator to the 32nd floor and walking down the hall, Constance slid the card through the card reader, and when the door opened, her mother said, "Welcome to our little abode for the next week."Maura smiled happily and walked into the large suite, and the beauty of the living area immediately struck her. It was a vast room with one circular table surrounded by four chairs then two chairs beside the short dresser that held a large mirror above it.Further down, the long stretched-out room, she could see two grey-brown seats positioned across from one another, and across from the marble table was a white couch with two grey pillows and another mirror.Maura walked across the living room area and opened the patio to see two orange chairs with a small white marble table on each end of the terrace with a single medium-length orange chair in the middle, but it was the view that enamored her.From the patio, she could see the view of downtown Manhattan.This was the view that made her love the Royal Suite the first time she ever came to New York. "Breathtaking…" Maura breathed as the rain started to fall in earnest.While most people would hate the rain, it just made the city, and the view, all the more lovely to her."Get inside before you get sick from the rain," Maura heard Constance tell her. Maura pouted a bit before she turned around and walked inside but immediately hugged her mom."Thank you for doing this. I know you tend to like more extravagant lodgings, but it means a lot to me," Maura said."You're my daughter Maura, and while I can be a little distant, I'd do anything for you," Constance replied. "Now, since it's raining, our plans of shopping have gone down the tubes; why don't we relax in the living room while I get our room service?"The rain had started to pour down when the Rizzoli Trio made it to the Four Seasons. Their clothes were all soaked to the bone, and each of them had a look of annoyance."Can't believe we had to walk an entire block to get to this place. In this weather at that," Frankie huffed in annoyance as he dug his hands into his pockets, only to make a face and remove them. "Soaked…" he grumbled."I took down that cabbie's car number and name. I will be speaking to his supervisor about this," her mother said with a grumble of her own."At least we're finally here," Jane said out loud as they entered the lobby of the hotel, only for the trio to stare in surprise. It was like going into a different world. The hustle and bustle and weather from the outside seemed to faint inside.It was jarring, but it was nice in an odd way too.It also helped that it was warm in here compared to outside. "Whew, nice and toasty," Frankie happily sighed."It is?" Jane asked."Yeah," Frankie confirmed as he unzipped his jacket to show his white Red Sox shirt. "That feels good."Jane grabbed the ends of her hoodie and pulled it over her head, revealing her black tank top. "Can you at least wait until we're in the room before you start stripping?" Frankie asked, only to be smacked upside his head by their amused mother, which caused Jane to snort.The trio walked to the Front Desk clerk, checked in, got their key, and made their way down the hall to a nearby elevator. "Man, this place is the definition of class," Frankie said. "I bet people living in this place make twenty times more than our family does.""Never count what is in other people's pockets," Jane recited, which caused her mother to smile. "Besides, we may not be rich, but we're okay, and that's all that matters."Jane saw her mother smile at her word, and while Jane merely shrugged, it was nice to see that her mom was proud of her outlook.They weren't poor or anything like that, but there were times when their family did struggle, and while she worried about money and envied the rich at times, she looked at what she did have versus what she didn't, and that was all in thanks to her parents' substantial work and family ethic."Man, I can't wait to see our room, though. I bet it's huge. The biggest room for the best players," Frankie said with a cocky grin.Jane couldn't help but grin as well and replied, "Well…I'm not arguing that. While I enjoy that our teammates are here, we do deserve the best for bringing us here."Jane snorted.After taking the elevator up to the 50th of the building, the trio walked until they found their suite number. "And here we are!" Angela excitedly said before she slid the card through the card reader and the door opened when they stepped inside, the trio was openly in shock.The Suit was massive with three separate areas, each having a beautiful view of New York.The trio left their luggage by the door as they explored their living space for the next week."Holy moly….Look at all of this space," Frankie gasped as the trio walked into the first area. This area was the living room area where there were two large white couches with two red and green pillows on each, a large TV over the fireplace, and a large window that gave them a view of New York's uptown."Janie, look! A piano!" Angela exclaimed, which caused Jane to turn around with surprise. "It looks brand new too!""Whoa…" Jane whispered as she touched the keys of the piano with a faint smile on her face. She had been so busy with basketball that she hadn't been able to practice her piano skills, but now with one in her living area, Jane would be able to do what she liked."Man! Look at this view! It is killer!" Frankie said with an excited smile, his hands on his waist. "Tommy would be so jealous that he couldn't paint this.""Tommy is going to be jealous of our trip. Period," Jane corrected with a grin.The trio then moved on to the second area of the suite, which showed a king-sized bed with white covers, sheets, and pillows, but in the room, there were two small brown couches, a small coffee table with a medium-sized caramel couch on the other side and a chess table behind it.There was also a desk facing the window that gave a beautiful view of uptown New York once again."I call dibs on this one," Frankie said as he immediately took off his shoes and placed them on the side of the bed.Jane and Angela exchanged looks before they left Frankie in the room to explore the rest, passing by four bathrooms with marble flooring and countertops as they did.They reached the second room, which was smaller than Frankie's but also had a king-sized bed, a much larger window that showed a good view of midtown New York, a brown table with a seat on each side, a TV on the furthest wall, and a small couch in the corner of the room."Small and cozy," Angela said. "I like it. This one is mine.""You sure, Ma?" Jane asked."You see this view?" Angela retorted."Fine, fine…" Jane smiled, but she was turned around and given a hug by her mother as she turned."Ma, what is this for?" Jane asked.Angela pulled away and ruffled her hair, which caused Jane to grumble outwardly but inwardly; she enjoyed it. "For being a good basketball player and getting us this vacation," Angela replied with a grin.Jane snorted and moved away from her mom with a, "Yeah, yeah," before walking out of the area. She finally found her room. On the right side of the room sat her king-sized bed, which sat on top of a wooden bedspring with lights attached.The bed sat snuggly between two short dressers and had a mirror positioned on the wall behind her bed. A few feet away from the bottom of her bed was a table with two chairs and a vase full of roses, and further down was a sofa sleeper on the right corner of the room, a TV on the wall to the left side of the room and a long white couch with two wooden tables pushed together.And on the side of the table sat a large window with a view of Downtown New York.Jane whistled as she walked towards the window and leaned her elbow on it as she observed the city. It was so cool being in such a large suite, but she wished that Frost and Casey were the ones with her.And Frankie, of course."Who wants room service?!" Angela's voice yelled, snapping Jane from her brief funk.Just then, her stomach growled, and she let out a laugh. She might as well grab a bite to eat.It was 11:55 pm, and Jane found herself unable to sleep.She always had some difficulty sleeping in new areas, and this one was no different. She truly envied her mother and brother for being able to sleep anywhere they are. Jane slid off the bed, walked past the window, where the moon was high in the air, and made her way to the bathroom.Once finished freshening up, Jane decided that she would explore the hotel and find out more about their current living situation. Silently, she crept out of the suite and made her way to the elevator.As she waited for the elevator, she gingerly rubbed at the end of her necklace before the elevator opened up. She stepped inside and pressed the base level. If she was going to explore, she might as well start from the bottom.As the elevator began to descend, Jane closed her eyes and leaned against the wall. From what she remembered her Ma telling her, her team was supposed to meet on Monday and Wednesday, and the game itself was on Friday so that left tomorrow, Tuesday, and Thursday to relax, and then they leave on Saturday morning.Just then, she heard the elevator ding suddenly when she opened her eyes; Jane saw a long, honey-blonde teenage girl in a white dress with a blue cardigan standing across from her. While she was stunningly beautiful, it was her eyes that caught her attention.They were the most beautiful hazel eyes she had ever seen. They were so bright that they seemed more golden than hazel.The girl standing across from her seemed surprised before Jane offered a small smile. "Hello…" Jane said, albeit hesitantly. She was surprised she could speak and not throw up due to the fluttering in her stomach."Hi…" The girl responded with a distant but friendly smile on her face.Just then, the doors began to close, and with speed, Jane only reserved on the court, she held the doors open for the girl to enter. That seemed to snap the girl from whatever place she was, and she murmured, "Thank you…" As she stepped into the elevator."Trust me…It was no problem at all," Jane replied as she shot a smile at the girl.And to Jane's delight, the girl smiled back just as the clock hit midnight.
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Maura was nervous.She knew that it was foolish to be so nervous about this person beside her but she was. She didn't think the girl was dangerous…but she was nervous about the reaction her body had to her the moment the elevator doors opened to reveal her.The girl was tall, a little lanky, and had strong features that reminded Maura of the ancient Greek sculpture of Artemis but there was a gentleness to her as well and that reflected strongly through the girl's eyes.Those deep chocolate brown eyes."You're staring," the other girl stated as a smile appeared on her face.Maura flushed. She shouldn't be so blatantly staring at this girl. "S-Sorry," Maura stammered out as she brushed a strand of hair behind her ear."Don't be," The girl replied with a lopsided grin.Maura felt her stomach flutter.Why was her body reacting in such a peculiar way?"So Hazel eyes, what are you doing out here In the middle of the night?" The girl asked.Maura blinked.Hazel eyes?Oh! Because of her eye color!Maura felt proud that she got the reference but then she blushed again. No one had ever commented on her eye color before.No one ever commented on anything that "Maura the Bore-a" had…"I just wanted to grab a snack without waking up my mother," Maura explained. "Mother was so exhausted and my room is across from hers so I figured I'd go down to the restaurant to get one. What about you…Chocolate eyes?"She watched as amusement flickered on the other girl's face. "So my eyes are like chocolate? I like that," The girl said. "I wanted to get the lay of the land. See what this fancy-schmancy has to offer.""Is this your first time in a hotel like this?" Maura asked."This is my first time in a hotel like this AND New York," The girl replied."This is your first time?" Maura asked in surprise. "So what brought you to the city of dreams?""Well, I hail from Boston. I'm on my high school's Basketball team. We won a pivotal game against the Gotham City Sirens which launched us into the playoffs for the first time in our school's history and well this was one of the rewards. We're supposed to play a team here to determine the champion of this region. The winner earns a lot of cash for our school and also a grand prize for the team.""It makes sense honestly. With your height and body structure, you do have the body for basketball," Maura commented only to shut her mouth immediately."You checking me out?" The girl teased with a cheeky grin. "How forward of you, Hazel eyes.""I-I am so sorry," Maura apologized, her face beet red. "It was meant as a compl-"The girl laughed, a wonderful sound to Maura's ears. "Rilassarsi. I'm messing with you," the girl said with a grin."You know Italian?" Maura asked."A few words. My folks can speak it more fluently than I can. The only reason I know that word so well is because of my grandpops," The girl replied before she paused and clarified, "I got some Italian blood in me.""I see. Well, I for one will say you're in for a wonderful treat. This city is very beautiful and has some amazing tourist spots. You'll enjoy it for the time you are here," Maura said."I hope so, no sense in staying in this place and not having an adventure," The girl chuckled with a wry smirk. "So…What brings you to the big apple?""My mother has an art exhibit on Thursday and brought me down with her," Maura explained. "Normally, mother would have left me in Paris but since I'm out of school for the next week, she invited me to come along. I've been to New York a handful of times when I was young and I always wanted to return so I agreed.""Whoa…You're from Paris?" The girl asked with a surprised tone in her voice."Yeah. Been there my whole life," Maura replied."That must be cool. I'm just from plan old Boston," the girl replied.The elevator dinged and the doors opened to reveal the first floor. The pair stepped out and the girl announced, "Well looks like we're at our stop. It was nice talking to you but I better get going on my walk."Maura frowned.Admittedly, she didn't want to part with the girl so soon. She was very easy to talk to and that was hard to find for someone like her. "Well…" Maura began shyly. "I may have only been here twice but I know the place well enough. How about I show you around?"The girl stared at her for a moment before she replied "You sure? I don't want to keep you from getting your midnight snack….""Oh, you won't. We'll be going there last," Maura said with a teasing smile.Jane couldn't help but let out a laugh.This girl was truly something else but admittedly, Jane was glad Hazel eyes didn't depart.Jane liked talking to her and it also helped that she found the shorter girl very cute."You know what? I like that idea," Jane told her new friend. "Besides, this hotel is pretty big…Don't want to wind up lost."The girl laughed a bit and said, "I did wind up lost here once. It was terrifying admittedly. Too many floors so I'm glad I can be your tour guide for this.""And thanks for that. Oh, by the way, my name is Jane," Jane introduced as she held out her hand."Maura," The girl replied as her hand clasped Jane's. Maura's hand was soft, unlike her own and it made sense to Jane as Maura looked as gentle as a feather. "It is nice to meet you, Jane.""Likewise Maura…" Jane replied, suddenly feeling bashful as the other girl's eyes stared at her with warmth. "W-Well, Maura. Show me around this fancy place.""Yes ma'am," Maura replied.From the luxurious Spa area that her mom would adore to the gym which Frankie would adore, to the indoor pool Jane was excited about, the girl from Paris led Jane throughout the Four Seasons and during that time, Jane was able to learn more about the beautiful hazel eyed girl.She learned that:Maura was a few months younger than her. She wanted to become a doctor or an equivalent Her folks were divorced. She had a pet tortoise named Bass She was pulled out of school for a week, most likely due to to her mom's event.But despite this knowledge, Jane felt that there was something more to the girl that she didn't know and it confused her that she wanted to know more.But why?This girl was a stranger who would be gone out of her life in a week and yet…she wanted to know more about her. "And here is the Enchanted Dining room also known as The Garden," Maura said with a smile, snapping Jane from her thoughts.Jane looked and saw a row of four trees that separated two rows of tables. Along with the warm but very dim lighting, the beams of light from the moon filtered through the three oversized windows that sat at the end of the room.But as Maura, who stood in front of Jane, turned around with a smile, the glow from the moon seemed to make an aura around the girl that made Maura look magical to Jane's eyes."Time for a small bite," Maura said with a smile but Jane continued to stare for a moment before she shook her head and grinned back."Lead the way…" Jane murmured.Jane followed Maura to the counter and Jane watched as a bald heavyset man with a salt and pepper goatee wearing a Four Seasons vest walked up and asked, "Hello. How may I help you this Evening/Morning?""What is the lightest thing on your menu?" Maura asked."I would say that would be our signature Lemon Ricotta Pancakes," The man answered."What do you think?" Maura asked."Sounds good to me," Jane replied with a hint of confusion."Wonderful, I would like 2 orders of that. Jane, do you prefer orange juice? Coffee? Tea?" Maura asked."Coffee. Definitely coffee," Jane replied."And I can get 2 cups of La Colombe Coffee as well?" Maura asked."We sure can? Anything else?" The man asked."No, that is all, thank you," Maura said."We'll be right up with your order. Until then, take a seat anywhere, there are plenty of seats available," the man joked.Maura nodded and motioned for Jane to follow, who followed and was led to a table closer to the counter where they had placed their order. The pair sat across from one another and Maura let out a small apologetic smile."Do forgive me. I didn't want to just order for me while you sat there," Maura explained."Nonsense, going around this big place built up an appetite. I just wish I had some forewarning for our morning date," Jane responded with a wink, which caused Maura's face to turn red.She didn't know why but seeing Maura blush made Jane enjoy teasing her that much more. "I should stop teasing you so much," Jane said."Do you enjoy it?" Maura curiously asked."I like the reaction it gets. It's cute," Jane replied before she blinked.She did not mean to say that out loud.Maura let out a giggle, something that made Jane feel funny in the stomach. "No sense in stopping now since you've been teasing me since we met in the elevator," Maura said with a smile that made Jane's heart flutter."Hmm," Jane replied as her smile grew, happy Maura was comfortable with the teasing. "I guess not.""So I'm curious, are you on an all-girls basketball team?" Maura asked."Nope. I play with those meatheads we call males," Jane replied. "Trust me, I'm still surprised by it.""How did that happen?" Maura asked."Well I'm pretty fast you see," Jane began. "Even at my heaviest, I was faster than my siblings and my 3-pointers are out of this world good. Not as good as Larry Bird but good in my own right. I was trying out for the all-girls team when Coach Deville pulled me aside and said he wanted me to go for the men's team instead.""That must've been a surprise," Maura commented."It was," Jane confirmed. "I actually turned it down at first but my brother Frankie, who is also on the team, and my best friend were annoyed about my choice and they both let me know it. So in the end, I joined. My teammates were their normal, charming selves.""Meaning sexist pigs?" Maura asked."Got it in one," Jane replied. At Maura's confused look, Jane smiled and said "That means you've guessed it correctly.""Oh, good," Maura said with a smile."But after seeing me win game after game, they came around," Jane concluded."How do you deal with them being jerks?" Maura asked."Well…As the eldest to two idiotic brothers and daughter to "Mr. Strong Man," I have my ways of dealing with the male lifeform," Jane replied.Maura giggled and propped her right arm on the table and leaned her head against her right open palm, her eyes holding curiosity. "What are they like? Your family I mean?"Jane once again felt the word "Cute" echo through her mind as she stared at the girl before her. "Well…I have both parents and two younger siblings," Jane began and for the next hour, Jane regaled Maura with amusing stories about her misadventures with their, often leaving Maura giggling or full-on laughing.Soon, their food arrived and Jane finished with "And with that one punch, the bad time at the circus ended and our family can never go back…""Wow…Your brother Tommy should have his picture beside the definition of "Trickster" in the dictionary," Maura commented before another burst of giggles left her lips. "I can't remember laughing so hard before.""Glad I can entertain you," Jane said with a genuine smile. "But enough of my weird-ass family. I want to know about yours.""There isn't much to tell really," Maura said with a frown. "My father is an archeologist-""Like Indiana Jones?" Jane asked with excitement in her eyes.Maura giggled and answered, "Not quite like Indiana Jones. More paperwork, fewer adventures.""Aww, bummer…" Jane pouted, eliciting a smile from Maura."-And my mother is an Art Director and a darn good one at that. They adopted me when I was a baby and told me when I was ten years old.""Wow, do have any idea who your birth parents are?" Jane questioned."I've been interested in finding out but Mother has no idea who it could be," Maura replied with a faint tone of disappointment."Well, I think you'll find out soon. Maybe not today or tomorrow but soon," Jane confidently told her."I'm glad one of us has faith in that," Maura softly replied. She then gave Jane a smaller smile and added, "Other than that, I go to school in Paris…Nothing interesting there as well honestly…My life is boring.""Nah," Jane waved off. "Boring is watching the paint dry. You're living in Paris. One of the most popular cities in the world. I bet there are some neat things that you found there and even if you didn't, I'm sure you have some dope friends to make it interesting.""I wish," Maura sadly replied. "I don't really have any friends…"Jane frowned at this and said, "Seriously? I mean from the short time we've talked, you really could have fooled me.""It's the truth," Maura confirmed."Well that's bullshit," Jane huffed with an annoyed tone but then she grinned. She smacked her chest and declared, "Well you know what? You can add my name to your list of friends."Maura looked up in surprise."I mean, sure it'll only be for a week…" Jane sheepishly continued, but Maura could see the determination and sincerity in her eyes. "But I'm seriously lacking in friends and from this night alone, I can tell you're a good person so why not make a new friend?""Really?" Maura questioned."Really, Really," Jane confirmed.Jane watched as a tender smile appeared on her new friend's face and Jane felt giddy at seeing it. "Thank you," Maura replied."No need for thanks," Jane replied. "Trust me."After taking care of the bill (Which was split fifty-fifty) Jane and Maura were back in the elevator. Maura was honestly shocked at how much time had passed. From meeting at midnight to the tour, which was two hours, and after sitting in the dining room for four hours just talking.She had spent time with someone her age for six hours and didn't feel like the other person was forced or pitying her for being friendless. Jane seemed to have a genuine liking to her and that made her feel giddy."I can't believe the sun is rising. Not a bad way to spend your night," Jane replied with a grin."I certainly agree," Maura said.The elevator dinged at the 32nd floor and the elevator opened up and Maura stepped out while Jane stood on the other side. "I guess this is goodnight…Or good morning," Jane said with a grin."I kinda wish we didn't have to sleep so we can talk some more," Maura glumly admitted."I feel the same way…." Jane also admitted. "I-Uh…. I have basketball practice for most of today so I won't be free… but I'm free after 1P.M on Monday, I wanted to know if you were doing anything that afternoon? I-I mean I figured since we're friends…Might as well hang out, you know?Maura felt a burst of both excitement and nervousness at the question and instantly replied, "My mother is going to be gone on business until midnight on Monday, so I was going to go to a Museum around that time…Would that interest you?""Y-Yeah," Jane replied, a broad grin on her face. "My suite number is 3051. Meet me there at 1:30 PM tomorrow.""I will so…see you tomorrow?" Maura asked."Tomorrow…" Jane softly confirmed.Their eyes locked for a moment and Maura felt her face heat up but to her surprise, Jane's face became red as well."Well…I'll see you then…" Maura agreed."See you then…" Jane replied before the elevator doors closed, giving Maura a glimpse of a gentle smile on Jane's face before they closed completely.Maura let out a happy breath and placed both hands on her reddening cheeks.She had made her first friend.But as Maura returned to her hotel room and got situated in bed, still floating on cloud nine, she would never know that the girl she fell asleep thinking about felt exactly the same way."Jane! You are fucking unstoppable right now!" Frankie exclaimed. Jane looked at her shocked team and her equally stunned brother and smirked before she dribbled the ball and took the shot.Nothing but net."Another three-pointer, Rizzoli? You are on fire today," Coach Deville announced with an impressed tone as he clapped her shoulder. "Bring that to Friday's game and we're going to win against the National City Supers for sure."Jane smirked.She didn't know why she was so focused today.Could it be the deep rest she got on Sunday? She did sleep nearly the entire day after her excursion to the hotel. Could it just be luck?Or could it be the hazel-eyed beauty Jane fell asleep thinking about? The same hazel-eyed girl Jane was going to see after her practice today.The thought alone made her buzz with excitement.She shouldn't be excited to see someone that she was going to lose in a week and yet she was. There was just something about this Maura that made Jane want to see her more but what was it? Was it the girl's personality?Jane was able to glean that Maura was very intelligent and from knowing her parents' jobs, probably really rich. However, Maura was lonely but that didn't stop her from becoming Jane's friend. So lonely, smart, surprisingly outgoing, and easily flustered.Jane couldn't help but smile as she landed another shot to the basketball hoop at the memory of Maura's blushing face appearing in her mind.Was it Maura's looks? It wasn't out of the ordinary for Jane to find other girls her age cute and while Jane thought Maura was "cute" several times yesterday morning, now she felt that Maura seemed to make "Cute" an understatement.And that smile…It seemed to light up the room every time she did it.'Maybe both,' Jane thought as she sunk in another three-pointer.Those people in France didn't know how lucky they were to have Maura there.Well, until they were to part, Jane would do her best to show her how lucky she was to have met her."Man, Sis, you have been on you're "A" Game since this morning. What the hell put you in such a good mood?" Frankie asked."A pair of hazel eyes," Jane answered without thinking about it as she nailed another three-point shot."A pair of hazel eyes?" Frankie repeated, which caused Jane to miss her next shot.Had she said that out loud?!"Yo! Did you meet a guy last night when you snuck out?" Frankie teased.Jane scoffed."No, Why would I go out and meet a random guy?" Jane asked as she caught the basketball Frankie had tossed her. "No, her name is Maura.""Maura? That's a pretty interesting name," Frankie said as Jane nailed another three-pointer. "A cute one though. So, what did you guys do then?"For a moment, she could see Maura's smile in her mind and it made Jane return back to cloud nine."I think I'll leave that between me and her for now…." Jane whispered with a fond smile as she cradled the orange ball in her arms.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Frank. Can you just please try and be there for your son while he is feeling unwell?" Angela asked as she walked around her temporary room with the hotel's phone receiver and base in her hands."I'm sorry, Angie, but I got work. And Tommy is feeling better. He can actually taste things now," Her husband replied with a lot more hostility in his voice.Angela let out a harsh breath. Much to her disgust, she knew why he was in such a rush to get back to work and while she could tolerate it for the sake of her children, she would not allow her husband's whoring around town to be at the cost of her child's safety."Need I remind you, Francesco Rizzoli, that children, especially sick ones, take precedence over the needs of their parents' desires," Angela told him. "You can miss a day of work to take care of your youngest child. I'm sure your clients can afford to miss a day of your skills and I'm sure they would understand the reason."There was silence on the other end of the line."You will keep me up to date on Tommy's health when I call later today. And I do expect Tommy to be able to confirm you stayed with him the entire day," Angela concluded before she disconnected the call.Angela gently sat the phone down on the table to not throw it against the wall in frustration. There was a time when she could talk to her husband without it feeling like a hostage negotiation. Now, it seemed that's how all of their talks would remain.Hostage negotiations.It was times like this when Angela realized how alone she truly was.And it was times like this when Angela's mind turned to a dangerous thought.The thought of her.The thought of her once best friend who vanished the day of her wedding.The thought of the one person that Angela had thought would always be there when she needed her.Angela shook her head.When would she let the thought of that woman leave her?Angela blew out a breath and turned her attention to the electric clock that sat next to her bed. That's right, she had to meet Frankie and Jane at the shuttle stop. She wasted so much time with her husband that she had nearly forgotten all about that.She better hurry.Constance Isles was an exhausted woman.She had spent the majority of her Sunday, both day and night, working on getting some of the egregious errors in the art exhibit smoothed out and she needed to get some rest. She walked into the hotel that would serve as her home for the next few days and saw a familiar face at the front desk."Hello, Ms, Isles," Kimberly greeted with a smile on her face."You don't look as busy as you were Saturday," Constance noted."No but I will say this. The sooner this basketball tournament ends, the better my patience will be," Kimberly sighed. "All the families that are attending this tournament act like they've never been in a luxury apartment like this before."Constance frowned at the annoyed tone in her…friend's voice and stated, "As we are both aware, many haven't gotten a chance like this. We shouldn't be so critical if they want to enjoy themselves. Some may not get a chance to be wined and dined on again.""I suppose you have a point," Kimberly said. The woman then formed a seductive grin and asked, "Anyway, are we still on for tonight, Ms. Isles?""Of course we are," Constance replied, her face giving nothing away. "I will inform you once my daughter has retired for the evening.""Good, I'll see you then," Kimberly smiled.Constance nodded and made her way from the front desk to the elevator. She pressed the elevator button that would take her upstairs and eyed her watch. She could not wait to rest her exhausted body.The elevator doors opened up and without looking up, Constance stepped inside, only to bump into someone, which sent her stumbling back outside the elevator. Constance shook her head and hastily said, "I apologize, I didn't mean to bu—"Constance stopped as a familiar pair of brown eyes locked onto her.Memories upon memories forced themselves into her mind as the owner of those brown eyes pressed a button on the console within the elevator and then took a step back toward the elevator wall.Constance could see recognition, anger, and hurt within those expressive and beautiful mahogany brown eyes that she once adored. Constance wanted to speak, to say something, but before anything could be thought about, the elevator doors closed in her face, leaving her staring at them.It couldn't be possible.Not after all this time.She spent seventeen years trying to forget her.Constance shook her head and took a step back from the elevator.It had to be her mind playing tricks on her.She couldn't be here.And yet, those brown eyes had recognized her.Had seen her."Angela….?" Constance breathed.And for a moment, Constance wasn't the forty-one-year-old socialite and artist taking the world by storm. She was a nineteen-year-old girl, caught in the rain, with an eighteen-year-old Angela Rizzoli's warm brown eyes staring down at her.Maura walked out of her room with a bounce in her step.She was so excited about the museum and especially the new friend that she was coming with her.Friend.It was the first time she could ever say that word.Jane was her friend.Maura couldn't stop the smile that started to grow. It felt nice to be able to think that. But Maura felt that there was something different about Jane. She knew that Jane was very attractive, and her teasing in the elevator had made Maura flustered more than once.She wasn't used to being teased and yet, it felt right for Jane to be the one to tease her. Jane seemed very interested to know more about her. Not her parents, not their jobs, and not how rich she was.She just wanted to know more about her and Maura truly appreciated that.Maura opened the door to her room and walked past the living room area where her mother sat reading. From the second she saw her mother, she admittedly noticed something was amiss.Her mother's eyes seemed distant and the book she was "reading" was upside down. Her mother often did this when she was stressed. Was it her art exhibit stressing her out like this? "Mother, I am going to the museum today," Maura announced. When her mother didn't respond, Maura asked, "Is everything alright?"Her mother blinked and then turned to her with a polite, if not strained, smile. "I am fine, Maura," Her mother answered. "I….I have a lot on my mind. That's all." Maura watched as her mother sat down the book, straightened up in her chair, and asked, "Now, what was it that you said?""I said that I am going to the museum today," Maura repeated."Would it happen to be with that brunette girl?" Her mother questioned.Maura froze in surprise. "H-How did you know?" Maura asked."I saw both of you in the restaurant when I went down there for my own midnight snack on Sunday," Constance replied with an amused tone, her stressed expression melting away into the relaxed one Maura had come to know since her father left."W-Well," Maura stammered before she cleared her throat. "Yes. Her name is Jane. She is here from Boston for a basketball tournament.""Hmm…interesting," her mother replied with a small smile. "While I am glad you have met a friend, do not get too attached. We are only here for a week and I would hate to see you saddened by losing her…."Maura nodded at this and promised, "Do not fret, Mother. I will not be saddened when that day comes."Her mother turned around away, shook her head with a chuckle, and said, "Very good. I expect you back here by six. Be responsible but have fun.""Thank you, Mother," Maura said as she gave her mother a brief hug from behind and walked out the door. It was 1:25 P.M. and it would take approximately 5 minutes to get to the top floor. Maura closed her hotel room door after her and made her way to the elevator and pressed it.She waited for a few moments and when the elevator doors opened, Maura was met with Jane, who was talking to another male that looked similar to Jane herself. Jane turned her head and gave her a cheeky grin. "We've got to stop meeting like this Maura," Jane cheekily greeted.Maura returned the grin with a smile and replied,"Hello to you too Jane,"Maura then stepped into the elevator to stand beside her. "Yo Jane, you know her?" The boy asked on the other side of Jane."Of course, she's my friend, Maura," Jane said with a grin to Maura. "Hey Maura, this is my little brother.""Oh, is he the one that punched that clown in the testicles?" Maura asked."No, this is the one that freaked out and threw up on three people during the whirlwind ride," Jane replied.Frankie looked unamused as he looked at Jane and asked, "You told her about the Circus incident?""How could I not? It's a perfect ice breaker," Jane teased."Anyways," Frankie said before he looked at Maura and said "Ignore that story. I'm Frankie.""Maura," Maura replied as she shook his hand. "A pleasure to meet you.""Likewise. So since you two know each other, where were you going?" Frankie asked." I was going to wait for Jane. We made plans to go to the museum once her practice was done," Maura explained as she looked at Jane with a worried expression. "….Unless you are exhausted from your practice?""What? No way Jose," Jane said with a grin on her face. "I do need to change out of my clothes, I'm pretty sweaty.""That would be nice," Maura said as she wrinkled her nose."What? Do I stink?" Jane asked."Just a little," Maura admitted.Jane pouted. "Coach did train us hard today but look at these guns." Jane flexed her arm and Maura could see some definition and felt her face heat up, which Jane noticed and gave her a wink and a cocky grin.Frankie must have seen the grin and the blush as well because Maura could see his eyes flash in realization before a slow smirk appeared on his face. "So I guess this is happening. I was going to ask to go with but I think I'll just take a nap.""Good because I was going to say "No" anyways," Jane joked as she playfully bopped his head just as the elevator stopped. The trio walked down the hall until they stopped at Jane's door. Jane slid the keycard into the reader and the door unlocked.Jane opened the door and held it for Frankie, who walked in before Maura noticed that Jane was waiting on her. "Well don't be a stranger Maura. Come in," Jane invited. Maura nodded and stepped inside the room."Ma! We're back!" Jane yelled out into the large suite but when they were met with silence. "She must be out," Jane said."Or sleeping," Frankie offered. "You know she's a deep sleeper.""Still, it sucks," Jane commented. "I wanted Maura to meet her. Ah well, follow me, Maura."Maura nodded and followed Jane to her room in the suite as Jane said, "Stay put. I'm going to snag a quick shower before I head out.""I shall eagerly await your return then," Maura said as she sat down on Jane's bed."Or we could both hop in the shower," Jane playfully replied.Maura's mind instantly flashed to Jane's naked body drenched with water and she felt her face turn beet red. "I don't offend, do I?" Maura questioned through her flustered tone, unsure whether it was Jane just teasing her or if she did smell terrible.She saw a confused expression before she snorted and answered, "No. I just couldn't resist making you blush."Maura giggled a bit, her face still red and said "You are cruel for teasing me, Jane.""Yeah, but you like it. I see that smile trying not to peek out," Jane replied with a smile of her own before she sauntered off in the direction of the bathroom."I'll be back in a few minutes, make yourself at home."Maura leaned back on the bed, her face unable to cool down. All she could imagine was Jane's naked body now. She placed her legs on the bed and crossed it closed her eyes. She had to focus on erasing the rather lewd, yet enjoyable sight from her mind to calm herself down.Ten minutes passed and Maura's face had finally returned to normal when she felt a presence in front of her. She opened her eyes to see Jane, now dressed in a white tank top, a rather beautiful pocket watch necklace around her neck, and black jeans, standing in front of her, her hair still slightly wet from the shower."Welcome back to the land of the living," Jane said with a grin."O-Oh! I-I'm so sorry. How long was I meditating for?" Maura asked."Well, I was able to get out of the shower and get dressed all while you meditated. I gotta say, I'm a little proud and disappointed that you didn't peek at me," Jane said with another teasing smile.Maura blushed again.This was going to be a long, yet enjoyable, afternoon with her.The trip to the American Museum of Natural History was thankfully a thirty-minute ride and despite being in a bloody art museum, Jane found herself having fun.And of course, that was because of her present company. The pair were in the Fossil Halls of the museum and the pair were standing in front of a Tyrannosaurus Rex when Jane asked "Do you think dinosaurs had feathers?"Maura looked at her with surprise. "Like, bird feathers?" Maura asked."Yeah. I mean I know they are scaly but it's amusing to think this T-Rex would look like a big ass chicken," Jane said with a small grin."Did you know there is a large chicken known as the Brahma Chicken? It is two-point-five to three feet tall and they are and tend to weigh five to eight pounds," Maura said.Jane was disturbed by this cursed knowledge. "You can't be serious," Jane grumbled with a disgusted look on her face."I am one-hundred percent serious. My father had seen some and taken pictures. It's bigger than a normal-sized golden retriever," Maura replied."If I ever see that chicken, I'm punching it," Jane said with a straight face.Maura snorted and asked, "Why? What did those fluffy chickens do to offend you?""Exist Maura," Jane replied with a frown. "No chicken should be bigger than a dog. It's just…Not right. It's like an affront to mankind."Maura smacked her arm playfully, which caused Jane's disgusted look to change into a smile, as she said "The reason I bring it up is because there are scientists that believe there is a link between chickens and dinosaurs so your thought may be close to the truth.""So…Would that make them birds then?" Jane asked."Not at all. Birds tend to have beaks, instead of heavy bony jaws like many of the dinosaurs to reduce the force of weight. They would also have smooth, lightweight feathers to reduce the force of both weight and drag during flight. Not to mention, they would have a sternum, which is an enlarged breastbone, for a flight muscle attachment. That would help with the force of thrust. A dinosaur, such as the Tyrannosaurus Rex, for example, lack these features. Plus its tiny arms would not be able to support any bit of its large bo…dy…." Maura slowly drifted off slowly as Jane stared at her long and hard."Whoa," Jane breathed out. She was impressed at how quickly Maura was able to say all of that without a second thought. She knew the honey-blonde girl was smart but Jane was quickly realizing she may be a bon-a-fide genius."Oh no, I did it again, didn't I?" Maura asked with a growing distressed expression on her face, which caused Jane to snap out of her stunned feeling."Did what?" Jane asked with a confused look."I rattled off again without thinking. I am so sorry I bored you," Maura explained, her voice growing a little higher but Jane shook her head."Whoa, whoa, don't put words in my mouth, Maura," Jane remarked with a frown on her face. "You didn't bore me at all. If anything, I'm surprised because you were able to sprout all of that without hesitation. Like seriously. I can barely remember my brothers' birthdays and yet you could just spit out a fact like that. It's very impressive.""Really?" Maura asked, her voice thick with uncertainty.Jane smiled, took both of Maura's hands, and replied, "Damn right. Shows me that you're really a genius."Maura stared at her for a moment, almost taken aback."Really? You don't think that is odd?" Maura questioned one more time."Nope," Jane replied. She then paused and frowned before she asked "Did your schoolmates say that was odd?"Maura nodded, a downtrodden look on her face.Jane found herself despising this look. Maura should only have a blush or a smile on her face.Never one like this."Well that proves that they're assholes that shouldn't be believed because I like it," Jane said with a smile. Maura looked up at Jane, who gave her a sincere smile and added, "I didn't find it boring or strange or odd. It kind of suits you. Having all that info in that noggin of yours.""Noggin?" Maura questioned."Brain," Jane clarified with a grin. "It's nice to know someone with so much knowledge in their head.""Thank you," Maura softly told her.Jane grinned in response as she let go of one of Maura's hands and tugged her along. "Now come on Maur, let's go to another exhibit," Jane said.After thirty minutes of exploring, the pair found themselves at the Morgan Memorial Hall of Gems, and Jane's eyes were locked on the Star of India, a large blue sapphire that shimmered like the stars in the sky.It was beautiful to Jane's eyes."This thing is gigantic. It's bigger than my fist," Jane breathed in wonder as she looked back at Maura, who was also staring at it. "Penny for your thoughts?" Jane asked.Maura turned to her with a bright smile, which took Jane aback at how stunning the girl looked with that smile. She had smiled at Jane several times but this one really took her breath away. "Rutile, a mineral in the Star of India, gives the gem its milky quality and star effect," Maura explained."I don't follow," Jane stated with a smile on her face."There are tiny fibers of rutile in a three-fold pattern that reflect incoming light in the star pattern. This effect, called asterism, makes this gem look like a true star. It's amazing what the addition of titanium and iron to the mineral corundum can create. And to think, our planet made something beautiful like this." Maura looked away from Jane back at the sapphire. "I'm always taken aback by how wondrous our world can be to create something so beautiful."Jane stared at Maura for a moment and a moment, Jane felt something familiar in her chest. The last time she felt this feeling was when Casey had first kissed her. Jane was surprised by this brief flicker of familiar feelings but it didn't stop her from smiling at the enthralled girl in front of her."So am I," Jane replied with a smile.The pair spent the next three hours going from hall to hall of the museum until Maura felt that familiar ache in her stomach. Maura looked to Jane, her smile still in place, and asked, "I'm a little famished. Would you like to get something to eat?""I could eat a brontosaurus with how hungry I am," Jane replied."Wonderful. I saw a Storico right down the street, we can walk there," Maura cheerfully announced. Storico was one of her mother's favorite places to eat and Maura also wanted to surprise her mom by getting her a bite from there."Then lead the way Hazel-eyes," Jane teased as she pushed Maura lightly, which caused the girl to smile at her.The pair walked back to the entrance of the museum and as they left out the front door and walked passed a group of teens, Maura felt some smack her ass hard, which caused her to jump and squeak in surprise.Jane looked at her in confusion and saw her rubbing her butt with an uncomfortable look on her face. Without thinking, Jane immediately whipped around and shouted, "Who did it?!"A crowd of people swiveled their heads to look at her but Jane stepped in front of Maura, who looked nervous, "Who assaulted my friend?" Jane angrily repeated, her hands clenching and unclenching."J-Jane, It's okay," Maura tried to soothe as she reached out but when Jane looked at her, she was enraged. Maura knew it wasn't at her but it still made her heart ache to see such a look on the normally teasing and smile Jane.There was silence for a moment before one of the teens, a pale-skinned giant of a male with a black and green fauxhawk, black shirt with a green skull, and green pants stepped forward, a crude smirk on his face. "I did it," he said, his tenor ranged voice sounding smug to Jane's ears.The group of teens grew quiet as Jane stepped forward to him with a scowl. "Apologize to her," Jane demanded."Why should I?" The teen asked with a sneer."Because I'll make you otherwise," Jane responded.The boy looked at her, his eyes narrowed in amusement. "And how will you do that? You going to bitch at me until I do?"Jane let a smirk form on her face and without warning, she went for a knee to the groin but his larger hand blocked her knee, only for Jane's right hook to collide with the left side of his face, which sent the teen on one knee and with a hard knee to the middle of his face, the teen fell to his back, blood seeping down his nose."Ow…." The teen grumbled."Apologize," Jane demanded as she stepped in between his legs, lifted her right foot right above his groin."Fuck you!" The humiliated teen spat.Jane raised her eyebrow and then she stomped on it hard, causing the teen to yell in agony."Apologize," Jane repeated."Fuck! I apologize!" The teen wheezed out in pain.Jane removed her foot and with a satisfied smile, she said, "Good boy." Jane walked to a stunned Maura and asked, "Ready for lunch?"Maura nodded, unable to speak.During the walk to Storico and even after placing the order, Maura was a mixed ball of confusion as she sat across from Jane she ate her fries, beside her medium well-done steak from her plate.Storico was a very large restaurant but the pair were currently sitting in the lunch area, which was predominantly white with dozens of white plates, cups, and other assortments lining the walls around them.Behind Maura was a wooden bar area and behind Jane, there were yellow color cushioned seats lining up the wall. It was a nice little restaurant but all Maura could do was stare at Jane. The way Jane had instantly stepped to her offense and fought…well…beat the man that had touched her made Maura feel…Protected.Honored.Cared for."You gonna stare at my beautiful mug all day or are you going to eat your…Whatever that is before it gets cold?" Jane questioned with an amused tone.Maura snapped out of staring and flushed a bit and replied "Jane, It is Risotto with braised chestnuts and piave vecchio.""All I see is rice with a whole bunch of unneeded stuff," Jane brushed off but Maura could tell she was teasing her due to the glint in her eyes."You're incorrigible," Maura giggled.Jane winked and began to eat again but Maura as Maura lifted a spoon to eat, she found herself staring at the girl again. Jane happened to glance up at her and Maura felt her face heat up again.Her blushing around Jane had become a bad habit."Okay Maura, "What's going on with you?" Jane asked. "Ever since that scuffle, you've been staring at me…More than usual.""I just…Can't believe you did that for me," Maura revealed. "Without any hesitation, you defended my honor.""I mean, I'm not going to sit by when someone is attacked. Not my style," Jane explained. "It's why I want to be a cop so damn bad.""You want to be a police officer?" Maura asked."Damn right. I have a knack for it. my friend Frost and I are racing to become cops and…Oh…" Jane suddenly grew quiet."Frost? Who is he?" Maura asked, disheartened to see Jane's excited look melt into sadness."He was my best friend. Knew each other since we were like 10," Jane explained. "Hell, more than that. I counted him as my brother. My whole family did. He was an army brat so after 7 years, his father packed him and his family up and moved to god knows where…I miss that big-headed bastard.""Do you still talk to him over the phone?" Maura asked."You kidding me? The long-distance calling would get me murdered," Jane joked. "However, we have been writing letters. Despite me not liking that at all. But anyways, that's beside the point. I know it'll take a lot of hard work but I'm going to become the best cop of all of Boston. Just wait and see."At first, Maura felt herself feeling concerned over the dangerous job but as she looked at the determination in Jane's eyes, she felt herself slowly smiling. "After getting to know you and you defending me like that, I think you have the makings to be a great one," Maura replied.Jane's wide smile quickly told Maura she had said the right thing.After their lunch, the exhausted girls ordered a cab and made their way back to the hotel. It had just turned 8:25 P.M. when the elevator dinged on Maura's floor. Jane and Maura stepped off the elevator and the pair walked to Maura's door.Maura stood in front of Jane and said, "Well…I guess this is goodnight for now.""Yeah…" Jane said with a disappointed tone. "I had a great time. Even with the brief skirmish included.""I did too…" Maura replied."So…You got anything planned tomorrow?" Jane asked. "I mean, if you want to hit me up for a date again, I'm free.""That was a date?" Maura asked with a dusting of red on her cheeks.Jane wanted to say no and apologize for the dumbass joke but instead of doing that, Jane gave her a lopsided grin and answered, "I mean, a nice trek around a museum, a little fight, and lunch? I consider that a date."Maura let out a small laugh. "Then I had fun on our date," Maura agreed. The two girls let out a small laugh before Maura suddenly leaned forward and kissed Jane on the cheek, causing Jane to freeze in surprise.Her lips were…soft…Maura pulled away, her face a bright red as she said, "That's for protecting my honor earlier. I truly mean it.""U-Um…" Jane responded, flustered beyond belief. She hadn't felt so flustered since she and Casey had their first kiss. "H-Hey, anytime. Especially if I get that again," Jane finished, her voice getting stronger near the end."I'll see you tomorrow…Drop by at any time, okay?" Maura asked softly."Okay…" Jane replied, her voice just as soft. Maura shot her another smile and opened the door.Jane took a few steps back, offering a small wave to Maura before she shut it behind her before she turned around and began to walk away only to leap up and let out an excited "Whoo!" unable to wipe the goofy smile off her face.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"So Jane, how was the museum with your friend?"Jane, who had just taken a bite of her toast, began to cough violently at the sudden question. "O-Oh God," she choked out with tears falling down her face. She quickly grabbed her cup of water and drank it until the piece of toast continued on its journey then asked, "Can you give a girl some warning, Ma?"Her mother laughed in response and then replied, "I promise to give you a warning next time I ask something so innocuous."Jane gave her mother a withered glance only for a small grin to appear on her face at the memory of her date with Maura. "It was fantastic," Jane told her mother after a moment of thought. "Maura and I went to the museum, saw some dino bones and some diamonds, I defended her honor against a perv and then went out to lunch at a swanky place," Jane explained happily."I'm glad you had a good time. When Frankie told me where you went after I returned from getting some air, I was admittedly concerned," Her mother told her. "But thankfully, you came home last night and that eased my worries but please make sure to check in with me if you find yourself leaving the hotel for a long time, okay?"Jane nodded."Alright, enough of that," Frankie declared as he finished his scrambled eggs. "You said you defended Maura's honor against a pervert? How'd you manage that?""Just some punk kid touching her butt," Jane answered with a satisfied smirk formed on her face. "He was so smug about it too. Made it all the easier to beat him down in front of his friends. He won't be making that mistake again.""Jeez, and here I thought you were a guard dog when Casey was around," Frankie joked.Jane frowned at the mention of her ex-boyfriend.For a while, Jane had really hoped that the two of them would make it. Sure, things were pretty hot and cold with him. On some days, he wanted to be with her, and the next, he was in a rush to throw her away.Heck, when she found out about him leaving for the army, she was literally the last person to find out. Being abandoned like a kitten in a soggy wet box was something that still deeply ate away at her inside, even if she realized after he left that Casey wasn't good for her.He didn't want the girl that wanted to be a cop or someone that could speak her mind. He wanted someone calm, and obedient. He didn't want the rough and tumble-person that she was. He wanted someone like a lotus blossom, soft and pale.Everything that she wasn't….Casey was always going to be a sore subject to her, but she knew what Frankie was trying to say.l IN her pursuit to be with and keep Casey, she was a rabid dog to the myriad of girls that tried to take him away from her, and the few he did pursue while being with her, but the situation with Maura was different.Maura had been assaulted by some creep, which activated her "Guard Dog" tendencies.But Frankie must have seen something to make him draw that comparison regardless, but it terrified her to know what he saw. Not because she feared it, but because of what it could mean for her and Maura."Anyways, so what are we doing today?" Jane asked, hoping to quickly change the subject."I was thinking we could go around the city to see what it has to offer and later tonight, there is a cute restaurant and karaoke place called Turntable LP Bar & Karaoke. It is just down the street from the hotel. If you two want, we can go there later tonight," Their mother offered.Jane grimaced.As much as she loved music, she despised singing. Not so much because she could not sing but there was not a song that could match her low, slightly raspy voice. It was all high-pitched and annoying.
'But maybe Maura would like it…'
a voice in her head said to her."That does sound fun. I am supposed to hang out with Maura. Can I ask her if she can join us?" Jane asked."Wow, introducing her to Ma already? This must be serious," Frankie joked only for their mother to smack him on top of his head with a spoon again, which caused a whine of pain. "Okay, okay, no more jokes," he mumbled."That would be lovely Jane," Their mother answered with a smile. "They are reservation based so I will set it up for 7:30 P.M. tonight. It'll be under "Rizzoli" okay?""Awesome! I will go ask her right after breakfast. Thanks, Ma!" Jane ecstatically replied.It was the first time in a long time that Maura had slept in.In a normal situation, she would have been vexed at herself for wasting the better part of a day but after a date with Jane yesterday, she felt she deserved to splurge a little in the sleep department.Maura could not stop the smile that came on her face at the thought of Jane. They had gone on a date and what a date it was. She had such a wonderful time with the Boston native that she could not wait to see what would occur today.She had to tell her mother of her wonderful time.Maura stepped out of bed and walked to her mother's room; she could hear loud fumbling behind it. Concerned, she knocked on the door and asked, "Mother, are you okay?"Why she didn't expect the door to be cracked instead of fully closed so when she knocked, the door opened. There were a lot of things that Maura wanted to discuss with her mother regarding her "Date" with Jane when she woke up that morning but instead, she was treated with a sight she would not forget anytime soon.What lied behind that door was her mother and the woman she had met at the front desk when she and her mother arrived, in bed, naked as the day they were born.Maura's face burned with embarrassment as she shut the door swiftly. "O-Oh my," Maura stammered out, flustered at the brief but searing sight she had just seen. She heard a lot of fumbling come from behind the door and seconds later, Kimberly came out.From the haphazard way, Kimberly's button-down shirt was thrown on, the reddened cheeks, and the disheveled appearance of the woman, Maura could tell the woman was embarrassed at being seen in such a compromising position and needed to escape as fast as possible."Oh! Good morning Maura. So nice to see you. I must be going, however. Have a good day," Kimberly hurriedly explained as she rushed out of the suite. Maura opened the door to see her mother in the closet, who had just finished putting on a shirt, pause and look at Maura with alarm."Um…Mother," Maura began."Ah, good morning sweetie," Her mother said calmly but Maura could see the flustered expression as clear as day on her mother's face. "I see you have awoken earlier than expected.""Was there a time I should have woken up?" Maura questioned."I suppose not," Her mother sighed. "Maura, honey. I'm sure you are confused about what you saw just moments ago and-""It is obvious you and Kimberly had a sexual tryst," Maura stated. "But I was unaware that you were…um….""Into the same sex?" Her mother asked with a raised eyebrow."Yes," Maura replied.Her mother let out another sigh and said, "Honey, this conversation will not be an easy one and I will need some time to think on what I wish to say.""Just answer one question please Mother," Maura requested. "Did Father know?""He had knowledge of my attraction to the same sex, but it never came into play during our marriage," Her mother sincerely answered.Maura nodded and said, "I do apologize for interrupting something that was so private Mother.""There is no need. I should have shut the door fully," Her mother said with a mirthless grin.There was a knock at the door. "I shall go get it, Mother but I would like to discuss this further at a later time," Maura told her. With a nod from her mother, Maura walked to the door and cracked it, only to smile in delight at the sight of Jane."Hey, Maur! Glad to see you're awake," Jane cheerfully greeted.Maura tilted her head and asked "Maur?""Oh, sorry, I came up with that just now as a nickname. Do you…like it?" Jane shyly questioned. Maura was touched. She had never had a nickname before from anyone, not even her parents."I-I do," Maura replied as she brushed a hair from her face."Great! W-Well hey, you have any plans later tonight?" Jane asked."I do not. Do you have something planned?" Maura asked her."Well, my Ma wants to take me and Frankie around the city but tonight, we're supposed to go to Turntable LP Bar & Karaoke and Ma said I could invite you so um…You want to go?" Jane asked."Karaoke sounds lovely!" Maura exclaimed. "Oh, but your Mother and Brother are going, right? Do you think I should ask my mother to come along?""I think that would be a good idea," Jane said. "Give our folks a chance to be old people together, right?"Maura giggled and said, "One moment while I ask her."With a nod from Jane, Maura walked back to her mother's room and saw that the door was closed. She gave it two knocks and then asked, "Mother, my friend Jane, the one I went to the museum with yesterday, is going to Turntable LP Bar & Karaoke tonight and asked for me to come. I wanted to know if you would be willing to come with me as Jane's mother and brother will be there."Her mother was silent behind the door before she answered, "I am free this evening so I would love to come along with you and meet this Jane and her family.""Wonderful! Thank you, Mother," Maura exclaimed happily. She rushed back to Jane and announced, "She would be delighted to come.""That's great. So um, we will be leaving right away but Ma is setting up the reservation for 7:30 tonight under our last name Rizzoli so just say you are with us, okay?" Jane asked."I will," Maura replied."Great. I mean this date will be more public but I'm excited," Jane joked."I'm sure we'll get a chance to ourselves as we did yesterday," Maura said."I sure hope so…I really had a blast yesterday when it was the two of us," Jane admitted."I did too," Maura told her.The two gazed at one another before they laughed, albeit nervously. "Well, that's good to know. I-I'll see you tonight then," Jane said as her cheeks reddened."Until tonight Jane," Maura replied, her cheeks also reddening.Jane nodded and turned away for a moment before she took a sharp breath and leaned forward to kiss Maura's cheek, which surprised Maura and caused her entire face to redden. "That's for yesterday, Maur," Jane whispered before she ran off.As Maura watched Jane run off, she felt as if she would melt in delight.Night had fallen on New York as Jane and part of her family entered the Turntable LP Bar & Karaoke restaurant. The place was deceptively large with two floors. With wood panel flooring, steel walls, and a steel ceiling.From what Jane could see, the walls on the second floor were lined up with record player discs, old radios, and steel doors which she assumed led to the Karaoke rooms, and in the middle was a large turntable set up.On the first floor to the right, there were dozens of old record player discs that spanned across the entire wall but on two plaques separated from one another were a turntable that had been broken down piece by piece.To the left of the room was the bar where several adults sat, drinking what Jane assumed were alcoholic drinks, and finally, in the center of the room were dozens of tables. There were small circular tables for 2-4 people, medium square tables for 4-6 people, and large tables that could fit 8-10 people, all made with dark cherry wood with matching wooden chairs."Man, this place is packed," Frankie noted beside Jane, who nodded. As much as she enjoyed looking at the aesthetic of the place, she wanted to sit down, eat and talk to Maura when she arrived after the long day of being a tourist with her brother and mother.The Maître d' of the restaurant walked over and introduced herself with "Welcome to the Turntable LP Bar & Karaoke. My name is Cherry. You guys have a reservation?""We do. It is for Rizzoli," Her mother said with a smile."Ah perfect! The other two members of your party have already arrived. We already have your table set up with menus. Follow me," Cherry said."Wow, it just hit 7:30…They must have shown up a little early," Frankie murmured to Jane, who nodded with a smile. The Maître d' led them to a table where Maura sat, already looking through a menu.Jane could not stop the smile from forming on her face she noticed Maura look from her menu to her and give her a large smile. "And here is your table. The waiter will be here to take your order shortly," Cherry said before she departed to her duties."Jane, I'm so happy you came," Maura said as she hugged Jane the second the Maître d' left.Jane returned the hug and felt Maura place a tiny kiss on her cheek, which caused Jane's face to redden at the sudden contact. "Y-yeah, you guys are very early," Jane greeted, very aware of her mother and brother's gaze on her."We beat you here by ten minutes. Mother wanted to get situated," Maura said. "Oh! Before I forget, Hi Frankie.""Hey Maura," Frankie said with a salute. "Jane was itching to get here. She was complaining the entire time while we were doing the touring thing.""Frankie…" Jane warned.She did not whine that much….Maura giggled as Jane's mother introduced, "Wow, you guys are very prompt. I'm Angela Rizzoli, mother two these two rug rats.""It is wonderful to meet you, Angela," Maura greeted as she shook hands with her mother. "Jane has been a wonderful friend since we met, and she has told me a lot about you.""Hopefully, good things," Her mother replied before she looked around. "Where is your mother?""She went to the restroom. She will be out momentarily," Maura explained.They didn't have to wait long because moments later, a woman Jane did not recognize walked up to the table and said "Forgive me for the long absence Maura. It took me some…time…"Jane watched as an odd look appeared on the woman's face before she looked at her mother, whose expression seemed to change at a speed that Jane couldn't catch until it settled on neutral. "Hello, my name is Angela Rizzoli.""….My name is Constance Isles," Constance introduced as she held out a hand to her mother. Jane could feel the jovial air of the bar vanish as it suddenly became tense when the two women shook hands."Constance…That is a nice name," Her mother said."The pleasure is mine, truly," Constance replied.Jane noticed the distant tone in both voices but before she could comment on this to Maura, Her mother shook her head and said, "And this is one of my sons, Frankie Rizzoli and this is my daughter, Jane Rizzoli.""It is a pleasure to meet you, Frankie," Constance greeted as she shook Frankie's hand."Likewise?" Frankie questioned as he shot Jane a confused look.Constance turned to her and said, "And you must be Jane. Maura spoke very highly of you after you departed today.""Good things I hoped," Jane said with a smile.Constance nodded and confirmed, "A lot of good things. Well, now that we are all here, let us enjoy this night.""Yeah, we should," Angela agreed."Guys…You two noticing this or is it just me?"Jane and Maura turned back to look at Frankie before he motioned ahead to see Constance and Angela, in the middle of what looked to be a staring contest at their table.The three teens had moved away from their table to do a group huddle near the karaoke stage and despite the distance between the stage and their seats, Jane was fully aware that both women were unhappy."They must know each other…That's the only way we can explain this," Maura whispered to both her and Frankie."But how? I don't think Ma ever mentioned Constance before," Jane said with a cross of her arms, her inquisitive eyes locked on her mother's face. "Then again…Ma's pretty tight-lipped when it comes to friendships."'Should I spy?" Frankie asked Jane. "I think they're talking right now…"Jane looked up from the huddle to see the two women conversing. She looked back at Frankie and gave an indecisive sway of the head before she finally nodded. Frankie nodded and quietly separated from Maura and Jane."The sooner this mystery is solved, the better," Jane told her friend before she grinned. "So…While Frankie does that, why don't we do some karaoke?""I sure am! I wonder what song selections they have," Maura said."Let's go and see," Jane said. The two marched over to the stage and looked at the music selection. "They have some good selections," Jane noted."Quite a few. Why don't we both choose three songs and then do a duet?" Maura suggested."I like it. I think I like it," Jane murmured with a grin. "But let's add something a little sweeter to it. How about a contest?""I'm listening," Maura said.Jane grinned and explained, "Out of the three songs, we should find the ones that fit us the best with the selection they have. ""And what will I get when I win?" Maura teased."Hm…We'll find out that answer when I win," Jane countered, which caused Maura to giggle."I like your style, Ms. Rizzoli. I agree to your terms," Maura said, accepting the honey blonde's challenge. "But what should we do about the duet?""How about we leave it to Frankie?" Jane asked. "He may choose something humiliating for us to sing but you know what? Karaoke is supposed to be fun so I won't mind it."Maura smiled and said, "That is a marvelous idea. Why don't you go first while I discuss our plans with Frankie.""Done and done," Jane replied. "I even know the perfect song to start with."Jane rubbed her hands together as she glanced out at the crowd. Slowly, the first song she had chosen began to play and after a few seconds of standing there, she stepped forward to the microphone and sang.
"It's just a ball of dust underneath my feetIt rolls around the sun, it doesn't mean that much to meTake a chance on the edge of life just like all the restI look inside and dig it out 'cause there's no points for second best"
Jane could see that most of the patrons began to turn their heads toward the stage and grew a little nervous until she glanced at Maura.
"There's a raging fire in my heart tonightGrowin' higher and higher in my soul!There's a raging fire in the sky tonightI wanna ride on the silver dove far until the night"
Jane can't allow herself to lose steam so early in this game.She had to push through it.
"'Til I make you take me on your mighty wingsMake you take me on your mighty wings across the skyTake me on your mighty wingsTake me on your mighty wings tonight."
Jane saw that Maura's eyes were enraptured by her. Jane felt a blush appear on her face but she felt confidence swell in her chest.
"With just a little luck, a little cold blue steelI cut the night like a razer blade'Til I feel the way I wanna feelThere's a raging fire in my heart tonightGrowin' higher and higher in my soul!There's a raging fire in the sky tonightI wanna ride on the silver dove far until the night"
Jane could see the crowd grooving along as she paused in between the instrumental but she wasn't too focused on them.Who she was focused on was Maura, whose large smile bolstered her confidence even more.
"Oh, I wanna make you take me on your mighty wingsMake you take me on your mighty wings across the sky"
She didn't know why but Maura's gentle eyes continued to embolden her confidence, push her past her comforts to finish out the song.
"Take me on out on your mighty wingsTake me on your mighty wings tonightOn your mighty wingsMake you take me on your mighty wings across the sky!"
The song died down and there was applause from the audience but the one person she was ecstatic to see enjoy her little song was Maura. Maura got on stage and chirped, "You sing very well. If being a police officer doesn't work out, I think you could get a career in singing."Jane blushed a bit at her praise and playfully asked, "Trying to butter me up?""I have no need to butter you up, Jane," Maura teased. Jane then noticed a small twinkle in Maura's eyes and suddenly, she realized that she may be in trouble. "But I am trying to soften the blow for my victory.""Oh, who knew we had a trash talker here," Jane grinned."So, that song was very much filled with bravado. It sounds like something a police officer or a fighter pilot would sing," Maura commented."More fighter pilot than cop but heck, this is the song that made me imagine being either one," Jane explained."It suits you," Maura told her with a soft smile, which made Jane flush. "Now, I believe it's my turn.""Good luck," Jane said as she leaped down from the stage and sat down in the chair Maura had sat in previously.Maura took a deep breath and shut her eyes.For a moment, Maura felt self-conscious standing on the stage. While she knew her singing voice was good, per the constant praise her singing coach and music teacher would give her, she was still unsure.And yet, Jane watched her with an encouraging smile.
"Heart don't fail me nowCourage, don't desert meDon't turn back now that we're herePeople always say life is full of choicesNo one ever mentions fear.Or how a road can seem so longHow the world can seem so vastCourage, see me throughHeart, I'm trusting youOn this journey to the past."
Almost immediately, Maura could see the thunderstruck expression on Jane's face and Maura flushed at such a look.
"Somewhere down this roadI know someone's waitingYears of dreams just can't be wrong, noArms will open wideI'll be safe and wantedFinally home where I belong."Well starting here my life beginsStarting now I'm learning fastCourage, see me throughHeart, I'm trusting youOn this journey to the past."
Maura took a subtle breath as the crowd watched her, joining Jane who looked utterly enraptured by her voice.
"Heart don't fail me now, noCourage, don't desert meHome, love, familyThere was once a time I must've had them tooHome, love, familyI will never be complete until I find you.Hey.One step at a timeOne hope, then anotherWho knows where this road may go?Oh, back to who I wasOnto find my futureThings my heart still needs to know "
Maura watched as Jane looked up at her with a broad smile as she neared the end of the song.Just one last push.
"Yes, let this be a signLet this road be mineLet it lead me to my past.Courage, see me throughHeart, I'm trusting youTo bring me homeAt last!At last, ooh!"
The song continued for a moment as Maura caught her breath, the crowd cheering but as she looked at the cheering Jane, she found herself not caring about the crowd.What she found herself caring about was the girl with deep brown eyes, whose smile slowly dropped as something between them shifted. Without thinking, Maura tenderly sang:
"Courage, see me throughOh, Heart, I'm trusting you…."
The crowd continued to cheer once the song ended and Maura watched as Jane's face looked taken aback and admittedly, her as well. She thought from the name of the song that it was supposed to be something akin to friendship but after she sang those lines, she was wrong.So why did it feel so good to sing them?Jane stepped onto the stage and softly said, "That was pretty good, Anastasia."Maura flushed and replied, "I'm glad you think so. Those are my general feelings on my biological family but even if I never find them, I'm happy knowing about who I am, and not what I was.""A good way to put it," Jane said. "Now, I believe it's my turn, yeah?"Maura nodded but as she stepped off the stage, she could feel Jane's eyes on her, watching her every movement.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Constance and Angela sat at the dinner table in silence while the songs their daughters sang lingered in the air. Angela dared not look at the woman in front of her, lest the pain, the betrayal, and the hurt fill her heart."It's been a long time, Ange….You look good…" Constance whispered.Angela felt her heart lurch in her chest at the softness and hesitance of Constance's words. "As do you," Angela curtly replied, struggling to keep her feelings at bay.Angela noticed Constance's shoulders slumped in response to her curt reply. "Ange, I know that—""It's Angela," Angela corrected."Angela…." Constance whispered.Agenal let her heart flutter.Despite all these years, Constance still said her name the same way. Astonishment, with a hint of something in the middle, and ending it with a hopeful finish. "You shouldn't be here," Angela whispered."And where else should I be?" Constance asked her."Anywhere else…." Angela replied. "Anywhere but here."Anywhere but with her."Angela, Please," Constance implored as she reached over to touch her hand, only for Angela to pull it back."No, you can't do this. You can't just come back into my life after you left it. After you freed yourself of me," Angela whispered, trying to keep her voice at bay but failing as it quivered."Is that what you think? That I left to free myself of you?" Constance asked."We're not having this discussion. We are here so our daughters can have fun. That's all. After that, you can do what you did back then and walk away," Angela told her with a firm tone.Constance hummed and gave a subtle nod. "Very well…." She whispered.Angela knew that Constance wouldn't just accept that. She wasn't the type to just give up. They were going to talk again and Angela would be surprised if she didn't attack her later that night.And despite her dread in realizing that, she would face that head on.Because there was a lot of feelings she held for Constance Isles and if Constance wanted to face her, she would have to deal with that....Jane stared at Maura as the girl took her seat, her heart pounding in her chest. Those last words the honey-blonde sang had shifted something in her heart. Something Jane was not expecting but she didn't know what that meant.But while her first song had been all about what she wanted to be, Maura's was how she felt and how she wanted to trust her heart.Well, there was only one song that Jane could do.
"Whenever you feel your world is crashin' down on youWhenever you don't know where to turn or what to doDon't look too far, you've got the guideTo find your way, let your heart decide."
"True to your heartYou must be true to your heartThat's when the heavens will partAnd show the world what you believe inOpen your eyesYour heart can tell you no liesAnd when you're true to your heartThen you've got all you need to make it through."
The crowd immediately began to cheer for the song, while Maura seemed surprised by her choice of song, Jane noted that she was smiling.
"Someone you know is on your side can set you freeI can do that for you if you believe in meWhy second-guess what feels so rightJust trust your heart, and you'll see the light!"
"True to your heartYou must be true to your heartThat's when the heavens will partAnd show the world what you believe inOpen your eyesYour heart can tell you no liesAnd when you're true to your heartThen you've got all you need to make it through.You know it's trueIt'll see you through!"
Jane wasn't paying attention due to being deep into the song, but the second verse caught up and she had to thank the lights above her to hide her blush. She forgot about that verse.But maybe….Maybe that was a good thing.Yeah, it had to be a good thing.
"True to your heartYou must be true to your heartThat's when the heavens will partAnd show the world what you believe inOpen your eyesYour heart can tell you no liesAnd when you're true to your heartThen you've got all you need to make it through!"
"When things are gettin' crazyAnd you don't know where to startKeep on believin', babyJust be true to your heartWhen all the world around youIt seems to fall apartKeep on believin', babyJust be true to your heart!"
The crowd cheered as Maura watched Jane leap down from the stage and approach her with a small, bashful smile. She held out the microphone to her and Maura took it from her. "Thank you, Mulan. You've given me much to think about, Jane.""Well, I hoped it worked," Jane replied with a wide grin. "Because it's true. You should trust in your heart more." Jane emphasized this by placing the side of her left fist against Maura's chest, right above her heart.Maura walked up the steps to the stage and searched for a particular song. Once she did, she turned to Jane and felt herself flush.Trust in her heart.That's what Jane's song was telling her, right? Then perhaps she should….Jane didn't know what song Maura had chosen but from the slow melody of it, she could feel the air change.Something was different. But what?Jane turned her eyes to the stage and watched as Maura stood in the middle of the stage and sang:
"I know that when you look at meThere's so much that you just don't seeBut if you would only take the timeI know in my heart you'd findOh, a girl who's scared sometimesWho isn't always strongCan't you see the hurt in me?I feel so all alone."
"I wanna run to youI wanna run to youWon't you hold me in your armsAnd keep me safe from harm?I wanna run to youBut if I come to youTell me, will you stayOr will you run away?"
Jane felt her heart stop when Maura sang those words.What?
"Each day, each day I play the roleOf someone always in controlBut at night, I come home and turn the keyThere's nobody there, no one cares for meOh, what's the senseOf trying hard to find your dreamsWithout someone to share it with?Tell me, what does it mean?"
"I wanna run to youI wanna run to youWon't you hold me in your armsAnd keep me safe from harm?I wanna run to youBut if I come to youTell me, will you stayOr will you run away?Run away."
Jane felt breathless as the instrumental of the song began, giving Maura a chance to breathe. Did Maura actually feel these things for her or was it just a song she liked?She didn't know and was afraid to find out, truthfully.But a part of her wanted it to be true.She wanted Maura to want her as much as the song she chose did….
"I need you hereI need you here to wipe away my tearsTo kiss away my fears, noIf you only knewHow muchI wanna run to youI wanna run to youWon't you hold me in your armsAnd keep me safe from harm?I'll run to youBut if I come to youTell me, will you stay…."
Jane watched as Maura paused and they locked as the melody began to die down.
"Or will you run away?"
The crowd cheered as Maura took a small bow but Jane's mind raced with the infinte thoughts that ran through her mind.She hoped there was a good song that could combat something like that….Jane was silent when Maura stepped off the stage and approached her. "Your turn," Maura whispered as she held out the microphone to her.Quietly, Jane took the microphone, their fingers briefly touching. Finally, once Jane held the microphone in her hands, she whispered, "I think you should concede Maura,""I mean, we've sung two songs already. We still have one more…" Maura drifted off when she stared into Jane's eyes. There was an emotion in her friend's eyes that gave her pause. She didn't know why but the look made her pulse race to a near uncontrollable level."I won't concede," she finally spoke."Very well…Though I wonder what you'll do after this…" Jane whispered to her and then walked up the steps and onto the stage.Maura watched Jane curiously as the other girl stood there but she didn't stand for long because Jane sat down and crossed her legs right at the front of the stage, her eyes locked on hers.
"I am thinkin' of youIn my sleepless solitude tonightIf it's wrong to love youThen, my heart just won't let me be right'Cause I've drowned in you and I won't pull throughWithout you by my side."
"I'd give my all to haveJust one more night with youI'd risk my life to feelYour body next to mine'Cause I can't go onLiving in the memory of our songI'd give my all for your love tonight."
Maura felt her face flush but she could not take her eyes off her Jane's. They were so mesmerizing that she almost felt that she was in a trance. It was then Maura caught the words that Jane was singing and gasped.Oh….
"Baby, can you feel me?Imaginin' I'm lookin' in your eyesI can see you clearlyVividly emblazoned in my mindAnd yet, you're so far, like a distant starI'm wishing on tonight."
Jane shot her a faint grin and continued to sing and Maura had a good idea that Jane knew what she was feeling at this moment in time.
"I'd give my all to haveJust one more night with youI'd risk my life to feelYour body next to mine'Cause I can't go onLiving in the memory of our songI'd give my all for your love tonight…."
Maura felt her face heat up to near unbearable levels as she saw the look in Jane's eyes but this time, she understood what was in there. Acceptance, fear, adoration, and longing. They were so intense that it took her breath away.
"I'd give my all to haveJust one more night with youI'd risk my life to feelYour body next to mine'Cause I can't go onLiving in the memory of our songI'd give my all for your love tonight…."
Maura wanted nothing more than to reach across and hold the girl before her as Jane finished the song by singing:
"Give my all for your loveTonight…."
The song finished and the crowd cheered once again as Jane moved off the stage and stood in front of Maura. "So….Do you concede?" Jane whispered."Yes," Maura whispered."I guess there won't be a need for a duet huh?" Jane realized."After that? No…. Maura softly replied"I warned you…" Jane whispered back. "So what do I win?"Maura couldn't help but let out a shuddered breath at the smoldering gaze Jane had given her but before she could respond, Frankie came over and said, "Hey guys, you'll never guess what I overheard!"And with that, the moment had dissipated and the two girls looked away from each other with deep blushes on their faces. "Let's get something to eat," Jane quickly stammered."Y-Yes. Food is good," Maura added as she quickly departed, leaving a woefully confused Frankie in their wake."Wait, I thought there was going to be a duet!" Frankie called after them as he followed the pair.
Jane was exhausted.
It was a long day at the office and all she wanted to do was get home.
After she filed away her police report, she got into her fairly nice-looking car and drove twenty minutes to her modest looking home where two children were playing on the yard. The moment Jane got out of the car, the two kids looked up and Jane felt her soul ignite at the bright smiles on their faces.
"Ma!" The two yelled as a smiling Jane knelt down with her arms open for the two excited kids who tackled her into the grass. Jane looked up to see happy hazel eyes staring down at her.
"Hello my little brats," Jane said warmly as she leaned up and pecked each child on the forehead. "You guys enjoy keeping Mommy company today?"
"Darn right," The small boy said with a grin.
"Without pranks?" Jane questioned with a raised eyebrow.
The boy looked slightly guilty but still had the crooked grin that Jane often had. "Maybe…" he replied.
"Well I was a good kid today," The girl said with smile on her face.
Jane snorted and stood up and hoisted one child under her right arm and the other on her left shoulder, much to the children's amusement, and carried them both to the door where she tapped it with her left foot.
After a few seconds of waiting, the door opened and warm eyes were the first thing Jane saw, followed the door opening to reveal and older Maura, her honey-blond hair falling down her shoulders, her dimples pronounced due to her wide smile.
"Welcome home my paramour," she whispered.
"Grazie amore mio," Jane replied before she leaned down and placed a tender kiss on the woman's lips while the children gagged, which caused both women to laugh against each other's lips before they resumed sharing the tender affection for one another.
Jane's eyes snapped open as she panted.She leaned up off the bed and stared out of the window into the night sky and caught her reflection.Before this trip, she was a girl missing her best friend and her ex-boyfriend but now, as she stared at herself in the window, she realized that while she looked the same, she felt different.And it was thanks to Maura.It was obvious what was occurring.She had felt this feeling before with Casey but it never felt like this. It never reached the point where she was having dreams about him.Sure, she enjoyed his presence. He was funny and charming and Jane did miss him but it paled in comparison to Maura.Funny.Compassionate.Smart.BeautifulWarm.And these were just the base words. There was so much more to her than that. But what could she do? It was Wednesday…There were only three days left until she had to leave….Damn her feelings…Why did she let them flourish like this?She had to stop this.She had to-"Ange, please just talk to me."Jane paused.That voice…That was Maura's mom!What was she doing here?"I don't want to speak to you. Not after what happened."And she was talking to her mom…Jane slid out of bed and crept against the wall, close enough so could hear them talk.Constance rubbed her right bicep with a hurt expression on her face as she stared at Angela's angered face."Look, just give me a few minutes to explain and then I'll go, I promise," Constance told her."Seventeen years ago, Constance Isles, I would have listened to you then but after this long? I'd rather never see you again," Angela replied with narrowed eyes. "And I told you earlier tonight. Do not call me that, you lost the right when you left me all those years ago."Constance could see the anger and hurt in Angela's eyes and guilt and it caused guilt to run rampant through her.Constance lowered her head shamefully and said, "You're right…I'm sorry Angela. You have every right to be mad. I was a heartless idiot that day and you didn't deserve that…I'll go…I'm sorry to bother you."Constance went to turn away but it was then she felt Angela grasp her wrist, which caused her to look back at her. "Come inside…" Angela said. "Five minutes to explain yourself…"Constance nodded and allowed Angela to pull her inside where they sat down on the couch. "Now talk," Angela told her with a firm voice."O-Okay…" Constance said.It took a lot for Angela to get angry but she had forgotten how scary Angela could get when she was mad.And it was something Constance had earned."Okay…I need to preface this with something…" Constance said. "It was something that I hid away all of my life up until I left for France to continue the rest of college…I am a Lesbian…"Angela nodded slowly.Constance didn't know how to accept that.That…was so much more…simpler than expected."I knew about this since high school. Remember that week when I was gone?" Constance asked."Yeah, I just thought you were sick," Angela said."No, my parents took me to conversion camp. It didn't work but it worked in making me hate them for the rest of their lives," Constance replied bitterly, her right fist balled up but she then felt Angela's hand take hers and she relaxed."Oh, Constance…Why didn't you tell me?" Angela asked softly."I didn't want to risk our friendship at the time," Constance replied, her voice just as soft. "You were the only friend I had and if I lost you, I wouldn't know what I would do…And I didn't once I left…"Angela remained silent, which allowed Constance to continue."You were my best friend. You knew me inside and out. You were my better half but…Somewhere down the line, that feeling of friendship changed, and I…I fell in love with you," Constance told her, which made Angela gasp in surprise."At the time, I was terrified because you had just met Frank and he seemed like a great guy. I didn't want my feelings to get in the way so I became distant. I did everything I could to not drown in the jealousy I felt…And that day, when you told me that you were pregnant with Jane, I knew I couldn't stay…I just wish you didn't ask me to be the best woman at your wedding…""Oh, Connie…" Angela sadly murmured as Constance looked down, tears building in her eyes."I knew that leaving the way I did would hurt you but I was hurt at least I knew Frank would take care of you," Constance said as she looked down, tears falling down her face. "But it hurt so bad to be separated from you...I'm so sorry…."Slowly, her head was tilted up to stare at Angela's tearful eyes."You're so stupid," Angela told before she leaned forward and placed a soft kiss on Constance's forehead. Constance's eyes widened in shock but before she could do anything, Angela pulled away."Ange?" Constance questioned."That was for the pain you had to go through," Angela told her. "All this time, I thought you left because you hated me, or t-that you realized that your parents were right in being friends with a poor girl…But I see that it's only caused you pain…"Angela let out a tearful laugh. "When you didn't show up at my wedding, I was angry at you but when I realized you were completely gone, my heart shattered. I-I couldn't breathe, I couldn't do anything because my better half was gone. I didn't realize it until Frank and I got into a screaming match that somewhere, somehow, I had fallen in love with you and took you leaving to realize that…."Constance felt something shatter in her at those words. For decades, all Constance wanted to hear was those words from the girl who had taken her heart but to hear them now, those words were true…But so much had changed."In hindsight, it made sense. I always compared him to you. Even after you were gone and I guess that was the catalyst for his change. When I married Frank, he was a good man once but after you left and we got into that argument, he changed. He became a liar and a cheater and a heavy gambler…The kids don't know it but he's made it clear that he wants a divorce but wants to wait until they're grown. And all I could think after years this was that I wish I dared to realize what my heart always felt…"Constance wiped the tears away from Angela's face and slowly, her lips pressed against Angela's in a soft, bittersweet kiss. She felt Angela return her affections and place a gentle hand on her left cheek before the pair slowly pulled away only to rest their foreheads against each other and breathing."I've wanted that for so long," Angela told her as she placed another soft kiss on Constance's lips. "Why did we wait so long? We could have had this…We could've been a family…But now we're not and our daughters…They…""I know," Constance replied. "Hearing them last night…They are in love with one another…"Angela let out a small laugh. "Rizzoli and Isles…Still finding our way to one another…"The pair softly laughed."But it won't last," Angela sadly said. "Eventually, We'll have to go back to Boston…And you…""Will go back to France," Constance softly confirmed. "But I can't…I can't leave you knowing all that I know. Not only about our daughters but about you…What do I do with this?""I don't know…" Angela softly replied as she took her hands. "But what I do know is that I missed you and I don't want to waste the amount of time we have together…While we are still together…""Angela…What are you saying?" Constance asked."Stay…We don't have to do anything…I'm afraid that time has passed and I don't want to rob our daughters of this. I just want to know you again," Angela answered with a faint smile."Then stay I shall do…" Constance replied with a smile.The first real smile she's had in a long, long time.Jane silently slunk away and walked back to her bed in absolute shock.She did not expect all of that.Her father had done and done a lot of terrible things.Her mom was in love with Maura's mom.It sounded sad to her that they never got the chance they deserved but she wouldn't be here if they did…"I don't me and Maura to be that way…I don't want us to do the whole "What if" thing…But three days…" Jane thought before she shook her head.So what if they had three days?She would show Maura in the next three days that they belonged together without a shadow of a doubt.She would not make the same mistake Constance and her mother had…
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Thanks for meeting me down here, Maur," Jane said with a smile on her face. It was 7:34 A.M. as Jane and Maura sat down in the restaurant for breakfast.Ever since her Ma's conversation with Constance this morning, the only thing Jane had on her mind was that she would not allow herself and Maura to walk down the same road that Constance and her mom had before traveled before them.So when the sun finally rose and Constance left the hotel room, Jane didn't want to waste any time summoning the elevator, and to her delight, Maura was already there.She didn't know why Maura was there at first but that didn't matter much to her.She was just happy to see her.Very happy in fact. And feeling that made her wonder…Why wasn't she nervous about this? There was a chance that Maura could not feel the same way towards her. Hell, Maura could be disgusted by it but Jane had a feeling that Maura felt the same way.From the songs she choose last night to all the little moments they shared, Jane knew that there was something there."You do not need to thank me for that Jane. It was my mission to ask you in the first place. You just happened to beat me to it," Maura responded with a smile on her face, signaling to Jane that she was teasing her."Great…So remember how weird our moms acted last night?" Jane asked.Maura nodded."Well…There is a reason for that," Jane told her. Jane then explained in detail the history between their mothers, and by the end of it, Maura's eyes were wide in disbelief."I was unaware that their past was so intimate…" Maura murmured."Neither did I," Jane replied with a solemn expression. It was then she felt Maura's hand touch her own, which caused her to glance at the honey-blonde girl."Do you think we should try to get them together?" Maura questioned. "It would be nice for Mother to be happy again…"Jane shook her head. "I don't think that is a good idea. They seemed to have some sort of closure regarding it…Besides, even if they didn't, I couldn't do it.""Really? Why?" Maura asked.Jane took a deep breath.Now was the time.Jane placed her other hand on top of Maura's as he nervous smile formed on her face. She licked her lips and said, "I didn't come down here just to tell you about our folks…I came down here because I realized something…"Maura remained silent but Jane could see a nervousness and anticipation in Maura's eyes.What was she anticipating?"Ma and your Mother's past told me that I'd rather know the truth than live in a world of "What-Ifs" and "What could have been." That's just not me, you know? I'd rather leave it all on the table and let the chips fall where they may. I know this is rather sudden but…I don't want us to be another what-if…"She watched Maura contemplate her words before a smile began to form but before anything could be said, "Rizzoli!" Her coach's voice interrupted, which caused Jane's eyebrow to twitch in annoyance. She turned around to see an apologetic Frankie and her coach."Coach Deville? What's up?" Jane asked, trying to keep the frustration from her voice."Sorry for interrupting but I came to snag you. We're getting in some additional practice. I know today was the team's day off but I realized there are some plays that we need to go over," Coach Deville explained apologetically."But I…I was just about to—" Jane stammered out."It's okay Jane," Maura interjected, which prompted Jane to look at her.There was a disappointed smile on her face and Jane wanted nothing more than to kiss it away. "Tonight…You can tell me tonight…" Maura told her. "And when you do…You'll have my undivided attention…""Tonight," Jane sighed before she patted Maura's arm, stood up from the table, and walked back with the coach, looking back once to offer a small wave.'Darn, So close…' Maura thought to herself as walked back into her hotel room.She was so close to hearing the words that she knew Jane was going to say. It was obvious after what happened last night that there was something there between them and from Jane's words today, she was going to admit her feelings to her.It was frustrating to have that confession ripped away from her.But perhaps, it was better this way for now. It would give Maura a little more time to think about the ramifications of their mutual affection for one another.In the deepest part of her soul, Maura knew that she wanted Jane. She wanted to feel the girl's lips against hers, their bodies pressing together in a warm and tender embrace. But Maura understood that she was setting herself up for heartache.There were only three more days until they were to part.Her back to France and Jane back to Boston.Could she handle them separating?For a moment, she felt that maybe she should hide her feelings and deny Jane's feelings as well…She didn't want to suffer heartache and she did not want Jane to go through it as well."I don't want us to be another what-if…" Jane's voice echoed in her head.If she were to hide away from the truth of her own feelings, that could start her down the road of sacrificing happiness in the fear of pain.And Jane had given her more happiness than anyone she had ever met.She couldn't do it…She couldn't hide away from the truth.She cared for Jane and if she had to suffer pain to enjoy happiness, then that was an equivalent exchange worth having.But now that she was sound in her decision to continue to accept the feelings she held for the taller girl, she needed to make figure out how to make set the mood for a romantic moment along with finding a place to have it."Penny for your thoughts?" Constance suddenly asked, which caused Maura to jump in alarm before she turned around to face her mother with a pout.Her mother knew that startling her while deep in thought agitated her but as she looked into her mother's eyes, she saw a happiness she had not seen in a long time.'It must have been due to Angela,' Maura thought, recounting her past with Jane's mother. "Actually Mother…I wish to know…Where in this building can I create a romantic atmosphere?"There was no point in sugarcoating her question for her mother. There were no secrets between them."I'm assuming this is for Jane," Constance chuckled. "Hm, I know this might sound strange but why not have it here?"Maura looked confused by this."I have business to attend to tonight and outside of this room, there is no other location in the hotel that would offer the privacy that you would need with Jane," Constance told her."I understand," Maura replied."Good. I would also strongly advise speaking to Mrs. Rizzoli regarding this so you can prepare," Constance advised.Maura paused for a moment as a faint smile formed on Constance's face at the mention of the Rizzoli matriarch, her eyes distant as if she was recalling a memory before she shook her head, "Jane's mom? But why?" Maura questioned."One, to inform her of Jane's whereabouts tonight, two, to assist in any planning and three, to do the age-old tradition when it comes to obtaining a paramour," Constance told her."And that is?" Maura asked her."Become friends with the parent," Constance answered with a grin. "She should still be upstairs so I strongly advise you go to her now to help get started."
"You were my best friend. You knew me inside and out. You were my better half but…Somewhere down the line, that feeling of friendship changed, and I…I fell in love with you."
Angela sat there on her bed, her right thumb and index finger twirling the wedding ring on her finger with a contemplative expression on her face.Seventeen years since she last saw Constance and to her annoyance, the affluent woman still knew how to quicken her pulse.Angela was surprised at the suddenness of the kiss they had shared hours ago but what terrified her was the bitterness, sadness, longing, and love that it was able to convey.How could she not return it and pray that her kiss conveyed the same feelings Constance had given to her?Seventeen years, she had thought about Constance and both loathed and missed the woman that had been her best friend. Seventeen years that she had spent wishing she had a chance to do this with her.But that kiss would have to be the only time they could express these jumbled feelings.Angela shook her head.She can't keep replaying this kiss in her mind.Their time had passed.It was up to their children to realize their feelings for one another and not make the same mistake their elders had made. But as she thought back to the kiss…Maybe…It was then she heard a knock on the door which took her out of her thoughts. Angela walked to the door and opened it to reveal Maura.Think of the devil."Hello Maura," Angela said with a welcoming smile."Hello Mrs. Rizzoli," Maura respectfully greeted."Call me Angela," Angela responded with a small laugh. "But thank you for the respectful hello. My daughter could learn that from you."Maura flushed a bit."So, what brings you up here, Kiddo?" Angela questioned but she had a good idea of what the reason was.And was proven correct when Maura said, "I…I have a crush on your daughter and I wish to make a romantic atmosphere so I can reveal this to her. My mother suggested that you could assist in this matter."Angela let out a laugh.Honest and forward, just like Constance.If they ever met again after the next three days, she knew that she would come to like the honey-blonde Isles girl. "Seems your mother knows me fairly well," Angela told her as she held the door open for her. "Come on and let's talk business, Young Isles.""So like I was saying, Jackson and Tony invited me to their room to chill out with them tonight so I'll be going to their tonight so that should be fun…Jane, glaring at the coach will not make time go by faster," Frankie teased as Jane turned to him with a glower. "Relax. Maura will be waiting when we get back to the hotel…I mean, assuming Maura is the reason why you're so pissed at the coach."Jane grunted as she rubbed her left wrist. "I know. This whole sport is the reason we got this chance…And how I got to meet Maura but still, it irks me that this interrupted us.""Let me guess, you were going to tell her you liked her?" Frankie asked."Yeah," Jane admitted."I kind of saw it coming really," Frankie informed with a smirk. "I mean, you were pouting yesterday all throughout the tour. Not to mention how flirty you get around her and guard dog like when she was accosted the other day.""Yeah, yeah," Jane muttered with a wave of her hand. "You okay with that? With me liking a girl and all?""I'm honestly more stunned that the whole "Catholic Guilt" isn't eating you alive," Frankie joked, which caused Jane to chuckle."Why should I feel guilty about liking someone?" Jane asked with a faint smile."Damn right," Frankie cheered with a smile. "Plus, I think Maura is a good fit. A way better one than Casey anyways.""You think so?" Jane asked."Fuck yeah," Frankie replied enthusiastically. "I mean I'm talking to my sister and not the Barbie doll you nearly changed into when you were with him. She didn't cause you to change like he nearly did.""Changed? What do you mean?" Jane questioned curiously."I mean, remember last year when you were about to leave the basketball team because Casey did not like you playing it because he thought you were a delicate flower or some shit like that?" Frankie asked her. Before she could answer, Frankie then added "Or like that time you started to wear dresses and cut down on the swearing…""It was only after he said he was leaving that you seemed to snap back to normal. The fact you are not a Barbie doll for Maura at this moment is a huge plus to me. Girl or not, you deserve someone that you can be normal with. And if Barry were here, he would agree," Frankie finished.Jane was flabbergasted but as she thought about it, she realized he was telling the truth. She had tried to change herself to keep in Casey's good graces. She loved him at the time and did not want his eyes to wander to the nearest short skirt of a cheerleader…She did not feel the need to change with Maura because Maura accepted her as she was. While Jane had already decided to tell Maura how she felt, this only confirmed that feeling to her. Jane reached over and ruffled Frankie's hair, which caused him to whine as he attempted to move away."Thanks, Frankie," Jane told him with a sincere smile before she stood off the bench. "Well, Coach is calling us over. We better get over there."But then she recalled something.Throughout her entire dating saga with Casey, Frankie would always play "Barbie Girl" by Aqua anytime they were together and at first, she did not know why but his references to Barbie made her wise up.Frankie groaned as he stood up and walked past her but as he did, she smacked him upside the head. "Ow! Jane, explain!" Frankie shouted as he looked back at her."That's for being a wise guy, Barbie boy," Jane responded before she jogged back to the court with a laugh."Alright dear, everything is set up. The food will be here any moment. The place has been decorated to fit the mood as best as we can and the champagne has been set," Angela finished as she dusted off her hands. "Normally, I would not approve of the bubbly but your mother and I agreed that for this situation, we would allow it once."Maura gave Angela a grateful smile and remarked, "I do not know how to thank you enough…I know this might seem strange that a relatively unknown girl has fallen in love with your daughter…"Angela chuckled and gave Maura an affectionate pat on the head. "Don't be silly dear. I have seen how happy you have made my Janie since we came here. Before you, she was all sad and dower due to her ex-boyfriend leaving and her best friend moving away. I haven't seen her smile so much since you came into her life."Maura flushed with embarrassment. Surely, she did not change Jane so much in the last few days they have known one another. But despite thinking this, Maura knew very well that Jane had changed her in short order so maybe she had done something to change Jane."I sure hope so," Came Maura's soft reply."You nervous?" Angela asked."Yes…Not because I fear Jane's reply. I am confident that she feels the same way but…I do not know what will happen after we part ways," Maura admitted. "And that terrifies me, but I will not allow this…in her words…to be a "what-if" for me. I expect to be sad but having this time with Jane will be something I will forever treasure."Angela smiled but there was something in her eyes that Maura saw as regret. It was faint but it was there. "That's a good answer. Leaving What-ifs will only haunt you in the end…" Angela told her. "So take that plunge and deal with the fallout later.""It is very risky, I understand but that is what I will do," Maura told her with a smile.Angela looked at her watch and said, "Hmm Coach Deville said they will be done around this time. I had no idea it was this late…Time flies when you're having fun I suppose."Just then, Constance walked out of the room, dressed in a simple black suit and an undone blue tie, and said, "Wow, it looks nice in here. You're going to really wow her," Constance told Maura. "Good luck tonight.""Thanks, Mother," Maura thanked with a bashful smile.Maura watched as Constance turned to Angela and asked, "How do I look?"Maura watched Angela's eyes widen as if she was transfixed as she stared at her mother. "Like you're taking Cinderella to the ball," Angela finally replied before she eyed the undone tie. "Leaving it undone?" she questioned"My hands are a little wet. Did not want to wet the tie," Constance explained with a sheepish grin."You have not changed," Angela whispered as she began to do Constance's tie. "And here I thought you grew out of the habit of not drying your hands. There are hand towels in these bathrooms you know?""Hm…I know. But you always tied these things better," her mother softly answered. Maura watched as the two exchanged a longing look and a flustered look appeared on their faces. Maura felt wildly out of place as she felt the tension slowly rising between her mother and Angela.Thankfully, the Rizzoli matriarch finished the tie and murmured, "Done…""You are the best," Constance softly told her as she placed a hand over Angela's, which had remained pressed against the tie. "Truly…" she whispered."I do try," Angela gently replied.Their held gazes softened and for a moment, Maura felt they were going to kiss but Angela's eyes flashed over to her, seemingly remembering where she was, and then cleared her throat and hastily said, "I-I better go.""I-I should too," Constance replied, just as nervous and hasty as Angela. "I'll escort you to your room before I head off."Angela smiled in appreciation and said, "I don't want to make you late for your event.""No, the event is on Saturday night. This is just wrapping up the remaining details," Constance explained. A faint smile formed on her mother's face as she added, "Besides, I was taught to be gentleman, remember? Please allow me to escort you back…"Maura watched the two hold each other's gaze before there was a knock on the door."T-That must be the food," Angela hastily announced. "Let me set this all up for Maura and Jane and then, you can escort me back."Constance nodded before Angela looked to Maura and asked, "Mind if I use your helping hands to get this set up.""Of course," Maura said with a smile."You really did not need to escort me back up here, Connie," Angela said as she walked beside Constance, who had her hands in her pockets as they walked down the hall to the Rizzoli's hotel room."I know but I had a strong desire to," Constance replied with a smile."Those girls are going to have a great time tonight…I just hope they don't rush into anything," Angela paused and quickly added, "I mean more so than they are now.""I agree, but Maura can be stubborn about a few things and from what Maura told me about Jane defending her honor, she may hold your fire as well," Constance said."She sure does. It's amazing how much of myself I see in Jane at times," Angela said as she stopped in front of her door. "Well, this is me…" Angela told her."So it is…" Constance said. "I better get a move on then but before I go…Would you and your children like to go to the art exhibit I am hosting this Saturday?""I'd like that. It's been ages since you took me to an art exhibit," Angela replied."I hope I can drag you to more in the future," Constance told her with a small smile. "I will see you soon.""Okay," Angela replied.Constance began to walk away but without thinking, Angela reached out and grabbed her arm, which caused Constance to turn around. "Ange?" Constance questioned."Maura and Jane are going to be busy tonight and my son is staying with some friends down the hall…Instead of you going back and potentially interrupting the girls when your meeting is done…Why don't you come here?" Angela suggested before she hastily added, "I-I mean. Just to talk.""I'd like that," Constance replied, echoing Angela's answer from before. "Actually…I won't be back until ten…Would you mind if I bring dinner as well?""That'll be great. Decorating a good portion of your suite left me tired and famished," Angela admitted with a chuckle. That chuckle soon died away as Constance leaned down and placed a soft kiss on Angela's lips, which caused her to melt against it, her arms to immediately move up around Constance's neck.The kiss was as soft as it was when they had their first and second one the night before but there was something more that this kiss held. The two gently pulled away from one another and Angela panted "Sorry…""You're apologizing for me kissing you?" Constance questioned with a light pant of her own."I'm apologizing for not stopping it…." Angela replied with a soft blush. "Why did you kiss me?""I just needed to get that out of my system…Seeing you down there helping Maura made me, I don't know," Constance said, in a rare moment of her words failing her. "Feel something warm in my chest.""I felt it too," Angela whispered as she rested her forehead against Constance's chest. "But it is their time…We can't allow us to interfere…""I know…" Constance whispered as Angela felt the taller woman's arms around her. "I do not wish to go to this meeting. I wish to stay with you…"Angela looked up at Constance and teased, "Constance Isles, shirking her responsibilities? I never thought I'd live to see the day."Constance laughed softly and replied, "Not every day I am holding on to my best friend again."Angela smiled and placed a tender touch on Constance's cheek, which caused the taller woman to close her eyes. "Go…I'll be here when you get back," Angela told her."Okay," Constance acquiesced as she moved away from Angela and as she did, Angela felt colder than she previously did. "I'll be back.""I'll be waiting," Angela replied.Constance nodded and began to walk away, her head turning every so often to sneak a gaze at Angela as she did so.And once Constance was out of sight, Angela placed a hand on her heart and let out a bittersweet sigh before she unlocked the hotel room door and stepped inside.After another hour of training, Jane found herself on the elevator alone, her body sweaty and smelly due to the intense drills her coach had run her through. Frankie had gotten off on an earlier floor due to staying over his friends' room tonight so Jane was left with her thoughts.Tonight, was the night.She was going to tell Maura how she felt and there was nothing that was going to get in her way of this. She was going to march up to her room, tell her Ma that she was going to be with Maura tonight and that was that.The elevator doors opened and just as they did, Jane found Constance on the other side, who looked equally surprised at seeing Jane as Jane saw her. "Oh, hello Ms. Isles," Jane greeted with a friendly smile."Good evening Jane. I see you've finished practice. Heading to get changed to see my daughter?" Constance asked as Jane stepped out of the elevator."Sure am. I got something important to tell her tonight," Jane answered with a determined grin."I'm sure whatever you will tell her will bring her happiness," Constance told her sincerely as she stepped into the elevator. "Just do not keep her waiting too long downstairs in our suite. She can get quite pouty when impatient," Constance said with a teasing smile."No worries. I won't be long," Jane responded."Good," Constance said."Hey before you go, I want to tell you something," Jane said.She watched as Constance looked at her curiously and pressed the button on the elevator to keep the doors from closing. "I overheard you and Ma last night…How you two were best friends and how you left…And broke my Ma's heart and how you broke your own…" Jane admitted.Constance seemed surprised by this, but Jane said, "I'm not mad or anything. I mean, I'm sad that you guys went through that and I'm happy at the same time because I would not be born for one and two…hearing you guys talk about what could have been made me realize that I had to take this risk with Maura In telling her that I care about her more than I should.""I do not want to be filled with thoughts of what-ifs and heartaches. I know leaving her in three days will hurt but I want her to know how I feel…And I want to thank you for giving me that strength to do so…" Jane concluded with a faint blush.Constance was silent for a moment before she let out a small laugh."One of my biggest regrets was not telling Angela how I felt back then. It drove me mad with grief and insanity at times…If I could inspire that strength in you to take that step and make my daughter happy, then all of it was worth it," Constance told her with a smile.Jane felt choked up at the conviction in the woman's words and smiled back. "But don't worry about Angela and I. We will be just fine. Tonight, I want you to focus on Maura, okay?" Constance softly told her."I will," Jane promised.Constance smiled and said, "Angela raised a wonderful daughter in your Jane. I know she is in safe hands with you." And with those words, the elevator doors closed with Jane more determined than ever as she walked down the hallway, knowing that she had just gained Constance's approval.Jane opened her hotel room door and heard the shower running. She walked to the bathroom door and gave it two knocks before she shouted, "Hey Ma, I'm back but I'm leaving right away!""Make sure you dress nice!" Angela shouted from within.Jane walked to her room and stepped into her shower to freshen up. Once she was done, she walked into her temporary room and slipped on her underwear and bra before she walked to her drawer and pulled out a long-sleeved white button-down shirt and a pair of black slacks.She was lucky Ma had convinced her to pack some nice dress wear just in case they went out to a fancy restaurant. After a brief run of the iron to clear any wrinkles, Jane buttoned up the white shirt and then grabbed a pair of black pants and pulled them over her legs before tucking her shirt in.Jane reached into the drawer and grabbed her pocket watch necklace and placed it over her head and held it in her hand before she slipped on a pair of dress shoes. She finally finished it off with a pair of golden stud earrings."You look nice and neat," Angela stated, which caused Jane to look over her shoulder at her mom as she grinned."Well, I do have a date with Maura tonight," Jane replied."It's a simple look but it works for you, Kiddo. You will knock her dead," Angela said."Hopefully not, I have plans with her later," Jane joked as she turned around and faced her mom. "Hey, Ma…I…I love you, you know that right?" Jane asked. "I know I don't say it much, but I do…Even if you get all…you.""Of course, I do honey. What brought this on?" Angela asked her."I overheard you and Constance last night," Jane admitted.Like Constance before her, Angela was shocked by this, but Jane said, "Relax. It is nothing to get upset or mad over and I didn't mean to. You guys were talking pretty loud.""Oh Janie, I'm so sorry you had to hear all of that," Angela said as she rushed over and embraced her."Like I said, don't sweat because it's thanks to you two that I decided to tell Maura how I feel," Jane told her in their embrace. Jane then pulled away and said "I never knew Pops treated you that way….I wish I had noticed.""It's something that I can handle sweetheart," Angela told her. "Your father is still a good man…""He is not because he's not being good to you," Jane said. "But that's a talk for another day…I just need to know something…You and Constance still love each other but you two aren't doing anything because of Maura and I…And not only that, you're willing to give up someone you love to stay with Pops when he doesn't love you…I don't know how you or Constance can do that…How?"She watched as her Ma ran her right hand through her hair as if trying to find the words. After a moment, Angela nodded to herself, seemingly finding the answer."Because we both love you two and will sacrifice anything to make you both happy. If or when you have or adopt a child in the future, you will see that for your children, you will make a lot of tough sacrifices," Her mother answered as her hands held Jane's face. "But despite my feelings, I do not regret being with your father. He gave me the greatest gifts that I could ever have in you, Frankie and Tommy…And I would go through hell to make you three happy."While Jane had gotten choked up at Constance's words, Jane could not help but allow tears to fall from her eyes from her mother's words. Jane hugged her mother again and whispered: "I love you, Ma…""I love you too," Her mother replied with another tight and loving embrace. Her mother then pulled away and wiped the tears off her face and said, "Now you have a date to get to. You go down there and show little Isles how a Rizzoli loves.""Yes Ma'am," Jane said with a wide smile.After two heartfelt talks, Jane stood in front of Maura's door.When she had first told Casey how she felt, Jane was a nervous wreck but with Maura, there was nothing but confidence in her.The girl sitting in the hotel room in front of her liked her for her, her mother Constance liked and approved of her, her own Ma liked Maura and approved her being with her Maura and Frankie had shown his support in his dorkish way.All that was left was the main boss herself.Jane knocked on the door and after a few moments, the door opened to reveal Maura in all her glory, dressed in a black short dress with sheer, see-through black sleeves, a pair of teardrop earrings in each ear and her lips wet with lip gloss.Jane took a deep breath as Maura's eyes shined with delight. "You're here…" Maura whispered."Where else would I be?" Jane told her with a wide grin.Maura took Jane's left hand and Jane allowed herself to be pulled inside.Jane was not usually intimidated by anything.Her Ma and brothers often told her that she was "The Girl without Fear," but at this moment, as she stood in front of the stunning Maura Isles, she was petrified.It was not like her to be so nervous.When she had a crush on someone, she pursued it with no hesitation. But with Maura, this feeling was more substantial than mere infatuation.This realization hit Jane like a sledgehammer to the chest. Jane understood that she had feelings for Maura, but it was now that she realized how deep they ran.And the feeling only deepened, as Maura said, "You look beautiful, Jane."Jane flushed as she adjusted her top and asked, "You think so?""I know so. You looked very refined," Maura told her as she placed her hand in Jane's, which was a soothing balm to Jane that eased her nerves."I look okay…You, on the other hand," Jane paused as her blush deepened at the beautiful girl before her. "Are breathtakingly beautiful…" Jane breathed with awe as she stared at Maura.Jane watched with delight as Maura's face glowed at the compliment. "Thank you. I was a little concerned. I had never dressed like this for someone. Even at mother's exhibits, I tend to dress less extravagantly.""Really?" Jane asked.Maura bashfully nodded."I'm glad to be the first one to see you like this," Jane told her as a soft smile appeared on her face. "Then again," Jane began as she lifted Maura's hand to her mouth. "Anytime I can see you, it's breathtaking," Jane whispered as she kissed the girl's hand.Maura smiled with a blush, which not only filled Jane with confidence but also evaporated the nervous energy that had buzzed within her.Bolstered with renewed courage, Jane stared into Maura's eyes as she lowered the girl's hand from her lips and softly said, "There is so much I want to tell you, Hazel-Eyes…""There is a lot a wish to tell you as well," Maura responded, her voice matching Jane's softness. "But I am sure you have not eaten today…So let us eat. There will be plenty of time to talk."At the mention of food, Jane's stomach announced itself with a noise, which caused both girls to giggle, with the owner of said stomach blushing. "You aren't wrong," Jane said with a grin.Maura gripped Jane's hand and said, "Follow me."Jane followed Maura through the suite until she found herself outside on the patio where the dining room table sat, petals of roses strewn about on it with two lit candles on the table.On the table also sat two wine glasses that sat beside two cover plates of something that smelled divine.And add in the breathtaking view of downtown Manhattan, Jane found herself blown away."Your mom and I originally wanted it to be inside and decorate the dining room, but after a while, I figured that this would be a better option," Maura explained as she walked to the circular table and pulled out a chair. "If you do not mind, Mademoiselle, please have a seat.""Mademoiselle?" Jane asked, unable to stop herself from smiling at the shorter girl as she walked to the chair and sat in it."It means "Miss" in French," Maura explained as Jane felt the girl push her against the table carefully."You speak French?" Jane asked before she flushed in embarrassment. "Never mind, dumb question since you live in France. Sorry for asking it," Jane added immediately."No question from you could ever be dumb," Maura sweetly told her. "I do fluently speak it."Jane watched as a look of realization appeared on Maura's face. "Excuse me; I nearly forgot," Maura said as she reached over and pulled off the steel cover that sat on her plate, revealing the most divine food she had ever seen."Your plate. Prime New York Sirloin Steak with Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese on the side along with a bowl of caesar salad. In the wine glass is Moscato Wine, and for dessert, that is a surprise," Maura said with a wink.Jane was stunned."Your mother told me that whenever you and your family go to a fancy restaurant, you would also order the steak with mac and cheese on the side and touts it as your favorite. And while you hate anything leafy and green, you seem to do okay with the Caesar she told me," Maura explained.Jane did not know what to think.When she dated Casey, he had never done anything so nice for her. Sure, he took her out, but she always flexed to eat what he had wanted her to eat.Casey choosing what he wanted Jane to eat was why Jane hated salad so much. On the other hand, Maura did not shame her for her love of meat and seemed to support it.It was so simple, and yet, it told Jane more about Maura than she knew before."Whoa…You went all out," Jane breathed out. "For me…""I knew how sad you were about being interrupted earlier, so I wanted to make it up to you," Maura told her with a bashful expression."But by this? A candlelight dinner with a beautiful view, my favorite fancy food, wine, and who knows what else," Jane replied as her eyes began to get watery. "This is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me…"Maura's gaze softened as she reached over and took Jane's hand. "As forward as this may seem, you mean a lot to me, Jane…" Maura told her. "I came here with the notion that it was going to be just another trip. But you shattered it the minute that elevator door opened…"Jane felt Maura's hand intertwin with her own as the hazel-eyed beauty continued with, "You gave me friendship; you protected my honor, and you sang for me. No one has ever done that for me. Jane Rizzoli, you have made the last few days the happiest days of my life."Through the soft glow of the candlelight, Jane saw a lone tear fall from Maura's beautiful face. "You've made me the happiest girl in the world…And if that means doing something like this to show that appreciation, I will do it over and over again."From the sweetest gesture she had ever received to the soft glow on Maura's face to the atmospheric sounds of downtown Manhattan, Jane took a shuddered breath as emotion swelled in her chest."You know, I had a whole ass speech, and everything prepared," Jane said to Maura. "But I don't think words are necessary anymore," Jane told her before she boldly leaned across the table and captured Maura's lips in a gentle kiss.She could feel Maura freeze up for the quickest of moments before Jane felt the other girl's hand on her cheek as she reciprocated the kiss.Jane had kissed a few people in her time. From the coach's son to Frost, which was due to a dare, and then Casey but none of them made her feel as invincible, soft, or as loved as Maura's kiss made her feel.And that was understating it.Jane slowly pulled back and stared at the flushed Maura's face, as if she was seeing her for the first time in her life. She wished that she knew how to summon up everything she was feeling for Maura, but words escaped her.So instead, Jane smiled and pressed her forehead against Maura's and began to chuckle. Maura giggled before the two shared a short laugh. "We better eat before the food gets cold," Maura told her through her laughter.Jane's laughter faded as she asked, "Who needs food?" before she kissed Maura again, who returned it through her laughter before pushing her away gently."I went through a lot to make sure this was perfect, Jane Rizzoli," Maura told her with a whisper as Maura leaned her forehead against Jane's, which caused Jane's eyes to close. "And as much as these kisses are making me feel light-headed with euphoria, you need to eat.""Party-pooper," Jane teasingly replied with a whisper before she felt Maura's lips upon her own, which made Jane return the kiss with a smile.The two did not eat dinner until two hours later.As promised, Constance had returned to Angela's suite after her meeting but checked in on the girls before fully coming upstairs to the Rizzoli suite.Constance tapped on the door with her foot due to her hands being full, and seconds later, Angela answered, only wearing a fluffy white robe. "Coming in pretty late tonight, Ms. Isles," Angela greeted with a teasing smirk, which made Constance's heart flutter."Come in," Angela said as she walked into the apartment. Constance followed, turning around briefly to close the door with her foot while she said, "Forgive me, Mrs. Rizzoli, that meeting ran past the expected time." Constance then held up the bag of Chinese food and a bottle of wine to Angela and added, "I hope you don't mind some Chinese.""When do I not?" Angela replied as she walked to Constance and took the items from her hands before she stood on her toes to place a tiny peck on Constance's lips. "Thanks, I was starving," Angela said with a wink as she walked towards the table.As Angela placed the food on the table, Constance walked up behind Angela, wrapped her arms around the shorter woman's hips, and put her head on her right shoulder. "You're going to make me used to this, Ange."Constance felt Angela's arms rest on top of hers as Angela murmured, "Used to what?""Being able to walk into a living space with you here waiting for me," Constance mumbled against her neck. "Just like back in school."Angela let out a sweet laugh and replied, "I don't remember having this tall, beautiful woman hugging me back in college like this. At least not awake."Constance blushed and murmured, "You dreamt about me?""Quite a few times," Angela admitted. "It wasn't every day you meet a knockout like yourself in the rain, you know?""Well, if you're trying to make me swoon, it worked," Constance told her with a soft laugh. "I used to dream about you too. I would always wake up upset because it made me miss you.""I missed you too, Connie," Angela softly admitted as she leaned back against Constance. "It may have been a rough start to our reunion, but you've made me happier than I've been since my children were born."Constance pressed Angela closer to her as she muttered, "Then, while we're together, I'll have to make you the happiest you've ever been.""Is that a promise?" Angela asked with a coy tone.Constance pulled away only to turn Angela around and placed a tender kiss on the shorter woman's lips. Angela's arms slowly made their way around Constance's neck as the Rizzoli matriarch returned her tender kiss.The two slowly parted, and Constance said, "You have my word.""You have a lot of time to make up for," Angela noted. Constance could see a glimmer of wanting in Angela's eyes and felt her heartbeat quicken."And how should I make it up to you?" Constance questioned with a lick of her lips.Angela pulled away from Constance but took her hand and said, "Maura and Jane have the right idea. I'm tired of being a what-if."Constance's eyes widened in surprise. "Are you sure?" Constance asked."I spent years wanting to see the woman I had inadvertently fallen in love with, and that thought of "What-If" has haunted me for just as long," Angela told her gently."No regrets?" Constance asked."I won't lie, the thought of being with you while being married to Frank, even as terrible as he has become, makes me feel bad but being with you again outweighs any thoughts of regret. Constance, I want to be with you," Angela told her.Constance could see the determination in her eyes and felt herself grin. "Well, show me how I can make it up to you," Constante told her in a breathy whisper.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jane was awakened by a sunbeam hitting her face.She groaned at the offending light and attempted to turn away from it but then realized that there was a weight around her waist. Jane opened her bleary eyes and found herself staring at the sleeping face of Maura Isles.Jane then shut her eyes and let out a soft laugh as her memories from earlier that night played in her head. She had done it. Somehow, Jane had bumbled her way into having a crush on the cute rich girl, and she reciprocated those feelings.They had made out, ate their lukewarm but delicious dinners, and finished the night off by making out again on Maura's bed before they fell asleep. Jane brushed a strand of hair from Maura's face and felt her smile grow when Maura smiled in her sleep.At this moment, all Jane wanted to do was spend eternity with her.Jane blushed at the thought.This girl was making her soft.But weirdly, Jane didn't mind that she was a little bit soft for her.Jane leaned forward and placed a tiny kiss on Maura's forehead before she carefully got out of bed and crept down to the bathroom. Once she finished her business, she grabbed the spare keycard in Maura's room and left the suite.Constance stared up at the ceiling in disbelief, the bare body of Angela snuggled at her side.She did not get any sleep the night before. How could she have? For as long as Constance could remember, she had always imagined this moment, but now that it had finally happened, she was at peace.She looked down at Angela's sleeping form and placed a kiss on top of the woman's head.While Constance knew that this would only be for a short time, she did not want it to end. She wanted to wake up with Angela in her arms every day for the rest of their lives.And she knew that Maura would want to be with Jane after this week was done.What could she do?She then heard her stomach growl, which made her chuckle.Well, she could solve this problem at least. Constance attempted to get out of bed, but Angela sleepily grumbled, "Trying to sneak out on me?"Constance looked down and saw that while Angela's eyes were closed, she had a tired grin on her face. "Well, of course," Constance replied. "How am I supposed to get us breakfast after a long night?"Angela chuckled before she turned away from Constance and mumbled, "Hurry back. I'll be here."Constance nodded and got out of bed.Now to find her clothes."But I know what I like. I know I like dancing with you," Jane sang as she walked down the hallway. "And I know what you like. I know you like dancing with me. Oh yeah," the elevator dinged and opened."Kiss me once. Kiss me twice. Come on, pretty baby, kiss me deadly…." Jane drifted off when she saw Constance, dressed in a wrinkled button-down white shirt and slacks, in the elevator. "Good morning, Constance," Jane said with a smile."Oh! Good morning Jane," Constance said with a smile."I told Maur this the other day. We have to stop meeting like this, Ms. Isles," Jane chirped out as she stepped into the elevator."Call me Constance. No sense for formalities between us. Also, we're in the same hotel, Jane," Constance retorted. "We're bound to keep meeting like this. Also, Lita Ford?""Mom's favorite song," Jane replied."I know," Constance told her. "Who do you think took her to see Miss Ford live?""You are so cool," Jane said with stars in her eyes. Thanks to her mom, Jane adored Lita Ford's music."Why, thank you," Constance replied with a small smile."So," Jane began. "Judging that you're coming from upstairs, you were with Ma?"Jane could see Constance flush as she smoothly replied, "I was." Constance then cleared her throat and asked, "How was your date with Maura?"It was Jane's turn to blush as she answered, "It was magical.""Very good, both she and Angela put in a lot of work to make last night special for the both of you," Constance said."And I appreciate it," Jane told the Isles Matriarch. "That was the best date I ever had.""I can understand that," Constance replied with a wistful smile. She then attempted to adjust her clothes while asking, "So, what are you planning to do now?""Well, I want to get Maura some breakfast. She's still sleeping currently and figured I'd surprise her," Jane said. "What about you?""Great minds think alike, I see," Constance said. "Your mother is resting after our long night, so I planned to get her some breakfast as well.""Great minds indeed," Jane agreed with a grin."Then tell you what, there is a nice little restaurant down the street. We can go there and grab some breakfast. Besides, the restaurant here does not have what Maura would typically eat.""Sweet. I can also tell you mom's favorite breakfast as well since we're sharing," Jane replied as she attempted to fix her wrinkled button-down shirt and slacks.The elevator opened, and the two stepped out and left the hotel.The limo pulled up to Palace Restaurant, a two-level restaurant that served breakfast, lunch, and dinner but seemed to be popular due to its breakfast menu. Jane and Constance climbed out of the limo and walked into the restaurant as quickly as possible.Once they got inside, Constance asked, "So, if my memory serves me correctly, Angela is the Omelette type, correct?""Yeah. Ma digs Omelettes with mozzarella, basil, and tomato on it. Weird combination, but that's just me," Jane said. "She also enjoys French Toast and bacon. What about Maura?""Maura enjoys Eggs Florentine, which is Feta cheese with spinach saute topped with two poached eggs. When the mood strikes her, she also enjoys cheese Blintzes," Constance answered."Expensive tastes," Jane joked with a broad smile."Yes, I do spoil Maura quite a bit," Constance admitted."That's not a bad thing at all," Jane told her. "I think all moms tend to enjoy spoiling their kids. I mean, Ma spoils me too somewhat, but I don't tend to enjoy it.""How come?" Constance asked."Eh, I just feel like Tommy and Frankie need it more than I do," Jane answered with a shrug. "Besides, I think I prefer to do the spoiling instead of being the spoiled one, which is why I'm buying Maura breakfast. Maybe some flowers too.""Flowers, why did I not think of that?" Constance mumbled to herself.After gathering the food for their respective ladies, Jane and Constance got back into the limo, and after a quick order from Constance to find a flower shop, the limo took off. "So Constance, I know that you love my Ma, and I know that Ma cares about you. But I gotta know, what happens now?" Jane asked her."I don't know," Constance softly admitted. "And believe me, I am trying to think of something, but I know your mom. She would not want to rush into anything unless she was sure about it.""She is sure about you?" Jane asked.Jane watched as the woman blushed and looked out the window. "She expressed her feelings regarding us very well," Constance replied."Oh?" Jane questioned before realization settled in. "Oh!" Jane said in surprise. Jane honestly didn't know why she was so surprised. Jane knew how they felt and knew how her father treated his marriage to her, so she didn't feel angry at her mother's actions.But for her and Constance to sleep together.How did that work?Jane flushed and stared down at her lap in thought. Could she and Maura…."Finally, a flower shop," Constance said."Constance, what is Maura's favorite flower?" Jane asked as she stood in the flower shop with the Isles Matriarch, who had a look of concentration on her face.Constance had heard what Jane asked, but her mind was on something more. What she had told Jane earlier was true. Now that she had finally gotten her heart's desire in Angela, she was unsure what would happen next.Angela had taken a considerable risk last night with the two of them, and despite Constance's heart telling her to leap, Constance was unsure of what to do. Constance snagged a bouquet of red camellias and dwarf sunflowers off the shelf and held it out to Jane as she said, "I apologize for not responding earlier. I'm just thinking.""I can understand that," Jane said. This whole thing between you and Ma, and me and Maura, It's a lot in such a short amount of time."Constance agreed with a nod as Jane grabbed a bouquet of violets to add to the flowers she had given her."In such a short amount of time, I went from not knowing Maura exists to never wanting to let her go," Jane continued. "Maura is unlike anyone I have ever met in my entire life. I don't know how I can live without her once we separate….""It's not easy, Jane," Constance finally said as she picked up a bouquet of Morning Glories, yellow tulips, and yarrow flowers. "When I left your mother, it tore me apart. I forgot how to breathe, how to think, and how to live. I knew it had to be done because I was only torturing myself by being with her while she was in love with your father, but it was painful."Constance and Jane walked to the checkout counter and purchased their flowers. "I was on a downward spiral for many years until I managed to stand upright. It took time to heal from how I left my friendship and the person I cared about behind.""You went through all of that?" Jane asked as the two walked away from the flower shop and got back into the limousine.Constance put on her seatbelt and said, "I did. You have to understand, Angela and I met in the first year of college. We knew each other for four years until I left. There is a lot of history between us. She left an imprint on my spirit that no amount of money, relationships, or sex could ever heal."Constance felt a soft smile form on her face as she looked out the window and said, "To be honest, she had me the minute we met during that rainfall.""Wow," Jane breathed out. "I don't know how you survived being away from someone you loved that deeply. I know I couldn't," Jane said to her. "Not anymore, at least…."Constance then looked back at Jane and asked her, "Can I be honest with you?""Of course. I mean, you just spilled your guts about how in love you are with my mom and how hard it was to get past that. I'd be insulted if you didn't," Jane said with a smile.Constance smiled at Jane.Angela did an excellent job in raising this girl."First, I will say that I may have never found Angela again had you and my daughter never met, and I thank you for that," Constance began. "But admittedly, it scares me how you and Maura have this quick and intense connection to one another.""It does?" Jane asked."Yes. As you've said, you only met her a few days ago, and now you can't imagine your life without her. It was such a quick turnaround I've ever seen happen in relationships," Constance explained."I mean, you said that Ma had your heart the minute you two met. Maura had my heart the minute that elevator door opened," Jane admitted. "I love her."Constance's eyes widened at the admission.Deep inside of her heart, while Constance knew the two girls had a crush on one another that they wanted to explore, she had also chalked it up to a whirlwind romance as well due to how quick it was. And yet, Jane had said she loved Maura so casually, confidently, and genuinely that it felt as if Jane had said those words about Maura for years.Jane seemed surprised by the admission. "I love her," Jane repeated, a small smile appearing on her face. Jane then gave a broad smile and said, "I'm in love with your daughter."Constance couldn't help but laugh at the broad smile, instantly reminded of Angela anytime she was confident about something. "The Rizzoli sure does move quickly with their emotions," Constance teased as the limo pulled up to the hotel. "But, considering being in love with one, I should count that in my favor. Come on. We have our ladies to spoil.""I couldn't agree more," Jane happily replied.Using her keycard, Jane slipped into the Isles' suite and silently crept to Maura's room, where she saw the object of her affection had just put on a shirt, looking as If she just stepped out of the shower.After sitting the bag with Maura's food down on the table, Jane snuck up behind the girl and slipped her arms around her, showing her the bouquet."There goes the idea of surprising you with breakfast in bed," Jane joked as Maura melted against her."You startled me," Maura said."I'm sorry, Maur. I hope these flowers more than makeup for it," Jane whispered while she hid her face in Maura's neck, smelling the fresh soap."Maybe," Maura replied before she began to turn her head, prompting Jane to move her head back, only for Maura's lips to meet hers in a soft kiss. Jane nearly dropped the bouquet at Maura's feet as she tightened her hold around Maura's waist, returning the gentle kiss without hesitation.Maura turned around fully, briefly breaking this kiss to whisper against Jane's lips, "You should have told me you had left.""That would ruin the surprise, Maur," Jane retorted with a whisper before her lips met Maura's once again in another soft but brief kiss."You shouldn't have," Maura mumbled, despite the smile on her face. "I would have preferred to wake up next to you."Jane flushed at Maura's admission then grinned. "You trying to butter me up?" Jane asked."Of course. Is it working?" Maura asked with a teasing gleam in her hazel eyes. Jane felt her heart flutter at the sight as her grin turned into a soft smile."More than you know, Maur," Jane gently replied. "But we get into another makeout session; you should eat something. And lucky for you, I got you breakfast.""You did?" Maura asked with a joyful tone.Jane grinned and motioned to the bag of food. "Eggs Florentine with a side of Cheese Blintz. Your mom said it was your favorite," Jane explained with a blush. "I-I wanted to repay you for dinner last night an-"Jane was interrupted once again by Maura's lips crashing into hers in another kiss, which made Jane moan out in surprise before surrendering to the sweet taste of the affectionate girl.Jane could get used to this."Seems the shoe is on the other foot now, daughter of mine," Constance's amused voice rang out, which caused both Jane and Maura to jump before turning to the door, where Constance stood with a grin.Jane felt her face burning red while Maura squeaked and hid behind her. "I thought you would be with Ma right now, Constance," Jane said, trying to beat back her embarrassment."That was the plan before I forgot to mention something to you and Maura," Constance said as she strolled into the suite. "As thanks for hosting the art exhibit this Saturday, which you two along with your brother, Jane, are going to, I managed to land five tickets to the "A Midsummer Night's Dream" play for tonight.""A Midsummer Night's Dream?" Jane questioned."Oh my! That's one of my favorite plays!" Maura exclaimed. "Oh Jane, you would enjoy it so much!""I'll be informing Angela and Frankie of this, so at some point before 7 P.M, you need to return to your room to get properly dressed. Afterward, we will be having dinner out," Constance told her.Jane nodded before her eyes widened.Frankie.In all of the excitement of her and Maura and Ma and Constance, Jane had forgotten about Frankie. He was completely unaware of everything that had gone on!"You seem surprised, Jane," Maura stated while Constance quirked her eyebrow. "What's wrong?""Frankie…He doesn't know what's happened between us or Ma and Constance," Jane explained, much to Maura's surprise and Constance's muted horror."I need to talk to Angela," Constance said as she immediately left the suite."And I think Constance forgot Frankie didn't know either…." Jane stated after Constance left the suite."Do you think he would object to us?" Maura questioned.Jane had to hold back her excited squeal at Maura's phrasing of them as "Us," as she said, "I can hard confirm that he likes us together. But Constance and Ma. They did some stuff last night that he might object to…."Maura looked confused for a moment before a raised eyebrow from Jane caused her face to become scarlet red. "O-Oh my…" Maura whimpered as she hid her face in Jane's neck, which caused Jane to laugh."Let's worry about that later. For now, we need to get some food in your stomach," Jane said with a smile. "And then some in mine because I am starving."When Constance walked into the suite, she expected Angela to be still sleeping.To her surprise, Angela was wide awake with covers hiding her body with a baffled Frankie, who was still in his pajamas sitting in the chair across from the bed Angela occupied.When both Rizzolis turned to face her, Constance couldn't help but blush when Angela spotted the food and flowers and then smiled. "D-Did I interrupt anything?" Constance asked.Oh, how she longed to have what her work colleagues called her "silver tongue" at this moment."Maybe," Angela replied as she motioned for Constance to come closer. "I was just telling Frankie about what happened.""You were?" Constance questioned."You sound as surprised as I do," Frankie said."W-Well, I figured…Um…." Constance drifted off when she heard Angela laugh."You came in at the right time. I just told Frankie the truth," Angela explained. "I did not want him to bust into the room and see anything and get the millions of conclusions that he often got.""She's not wrong," Frankie said. "Boy, I knew you two knew each other but…Man. Little did I know.""Did you tell him about Frank too?" Constance asked.Angela nodded. "Everything Connie. I would have felt too guilty that Jane and potentially Maura knew while Frankie was in the dark about it."Constance then turned to Frankie, who was rubbing his temples, and asked, "So how do you feel about this?""You know, I wasn't blind about Dad, unlike Jane and Tommy. I noticed certain things about him, so the full details about that don't come as a surprise, especially the cheating. But you and Ma? That was surprising," Frankie began. "I mean, If Jane liking Maura didn't make me look at her differently, then Ma liking you."Frankie then turned to Angela and said, "The only thing that is rubbing me the wrong way is that you and Dad are still married, but that would make me a hypocrite for getting mad at you when he cheated countless times. What confuses me is what you guys and Jane and Maura will do when we all have to separate.""I'm working on that," Constance announced."You are?" Angela asked."As best as I can truthfully," Constance answered. "I was going to talk to you about that later, I swear.""Okay, because If I had to deal with both you and Jane sad, Ma, I will not be a happy camper," Frankie said with a frown. "But other than that, I have no issues with any of this. In all honesty, this helps me know what I need to do regarding someone."Constance noticed Angela blink, which caused Frankie to look up in confusion. "Who is this "Someone" Frankie?" Angela asked."Nobody," Frankie quickly replied before he slid out of his chair and said, "I'm going to take a quick shower and then talk to Jane. I'm assuming she's not here, right?""She's in my suite," Constance said as she pulled out her keycard and handed it to him. "Here.""Thank you," Frankie said with a smile before he said, "I'll leave you guys alone now. And Ma? Thanks for telling me."Frankie hugged Angela before he ran off, leaving Constance and Angela alone."And here I thought I would be coming up to a shouting match," Constance sighed.Angela smiled and stood up to kiss her cheeks, causing Constance to blush as the covers slipped off to reveal her naked shoulders. "Give me some credit. After some of our shouting matches, I'm pretty good at de-escalating things," Angela whispered as she took the food and flowers out of her hands. "But, I need a shower. It was not fun having a serious conversation while still naked."