Nothing about The Sentinel belongs to me. Everything about it belongs to UPN and Pet Fly Productions. I'd want to keep them if I owned them! There's no owies in this one, just a lot of smarm! :o) Daryl's speech is not my own ... Vicki Silvers is the actual mastermind behind it.
Tara
"Good morning, gentlemen." Simon enthused, greeting the two men warmly as they entered his office. Smiling, he held up a steaming pot of java. "Coffee?" Taking the offered mugs, Blair and Jim settled into the chairs in the office. Waiting.
"So, how was your weekend?"
"Uh, fine ... yours?" Blair said slowly.
Simon beamed at the young man. "Wonderful, couldn't have been better."
"Okay, Simon," Jim chuckled, "what's up?"
With an oversized grin, Simon laughed. Reaching into his desk drawer he pulled out a yellow envelope and handed it over to Jim, who eyed it curiously. Daryl's high school crest was embossed on the front. Some sort of formal invitation, perhaps?
"Well, are you going to open it?" Simon teased, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
Jim complied, sliding the decorative invitation out of the envelope. A pleased grin spread across his face as he handed it over to Blair to read. Sandburg bounced happily in his chair as he perused the invitation.
"It's Daryl," Simon announced, "he's graduating this Wednesday. In fact, he's been selected as the valedictorian." Pride evident in his voice.
"That's great!" Blair enthused, smiling. "We ARE going, Jim, right?"
Jim nodded, smiling at the excited young man. "You know it, Chief."
Blair's expression turned thoughtful. "That only leaves me two days to find just the right gift." He mused.
"It only leaves 'us' two days, Chief." Jim admonished his guide.
Sheepishly, Blair smiled. "Hmmm, oh, yeah, right."
Simon grinned. "For once, Joan and I agreed on something. Daryl's been really good about driving her car since he got his license. We're meeting for a late lunch, and afterwards we're going to see about getting him a car of his own."
Blair grinned. "Cool. He's going to be so jazzed, Simon."
With a bemused expression, Simon shook his head. "Anyway ... the commencement ceremony is Wednesday night, and Joan and I want to throw him a party afterwards."
"A surprise party?" Blair guessed, bouncing once again.
"Of course." Simon chuckled. "He deserves it, don't you think?"
Jim nodded. "Can we bring anything?"
"No, just yourselves will be fine."
Jim grinned and stood up, crossing to the door. Blair bounced along beside him as they moved through the bullpen. Reaching his desk Jim looked over his phone messages. "Speaking of lunch, have you eaten yet, Chief?" Hopeful.
Blair smiled. "Not yet. What do you have in mind? And don't say Wonderburger." He ducked a playful swat to his head.
"How about that new deli that just opened up down the street?"
"Sounds good, man."
Sitting at the kitchen table, the youth seemed lost in thought. Several crumpled pieces of paper adorned the tabletop as he chewed intently on his pencil, mumbling to himself. Joan swooped down on him, planting a quick kiss on his cheek.
Daryl looked up at her. "Oh, hey, mom." He glanced at the crisp almond business suit she was wearing. "Are you going to meet dad now?"
Joan nodded. "I won't be long. Are you sure that you'll be OK here by yourself?"
He groaned. "Yes, mom, I'm sure. Besides I need to work on my speech."
"Can I read what you have so far?" Reaching for the paper.
Daryl grabbed it away from her. "No!"
Surprised by his tone, she looked at him in puzzlement. Daryl dropped his eyes in avoidance. "I ... I can't do this mom. I can't give this speech. All those people staring at me ... I just know that I'm going to do something really dumb, like pass out. Mom what am I going to do? I can't do this. I just can't." He looked up at his mother with panic-stricken eyes. "Can't I just decline the honour?" His plea and panic almost making her smile. She knew perfectly well that her son was more than capable of doing this. Her own pride of accomplishment would not allow her to think otherwise.
"Oh, honey. Of course you can do it. I'm so proud of you. You're going to do just fine. Get your speech written, first, then worry about giving it." She turned away to slip into her jacket and didn't see the expression of disbelief on her son's face at her automatic discounting of his fears and concerns.
He shook his head in dismay. He needed to talk to somebody about this. He suddenly smiled, as he thought of the one person of his acquaintance who fit the bill perfectly.
Joan smiled, and patted her son's shoulder. "OK, I need to get going. You have my pager number. If you need me for anything ..."
"I'll beep you." Daryl finished for her, ushering her towards the door. Anxious for some privacy. As his mother's car left the driveway, he ran to his room to make his call.
"Hello, Blair?" The anthropologist was probably one of his closest friends. They could talk about anything.
"Hey, Daryl." Surprised to hear from the young man. Blair set aside the stack of assignments he'd been grading. "I hear congratulations are in order."
"Uh ... yeah." Daryl replied, unsure.
A long pause followed. "Daryl, is everything OK?"
"No." The reply was soft. "Can ... can you come over? I really need to talk to someone."
"No problem, Daryl. I can leave right now." He replaced the receiver in its cradle and grabbed his jacket.
His jovial mood had spread like wildfire throughout Major Crimes. All morning, his detectives had been stopping in with well wishes for Daryl. Cassie and Megan had even volunteered to help with the food and decorations for the party. Pouring himself a fresh cup of coffee, he sighed contentedly. Returning to his desk, he chuckled at the sea of cards. Clearing a small space, he sat down to continue going over a stack of reports.
Not long after, there was a knock on his office door. He looked up. With a smile, he stood up and walked over, greeting his former wife with a chaste peck on the cheek.
"Ready to go?" Joan asked, smiling as she noticed the cards that had taken up residence on Simon's desk. He followed her gaze, his eyes twinkling with pride in his son.
Smiling, he slipped into his jacket. "Of course."
As soon as the grad student had arrived, Daryl launched himself at the older man, demanding a hug. He felt himself crushed against his friend and smiled. "Thanks for coming over." His words were muffled against Blair's chest.
Blair smiled at him. Obviously Daryl was upset. His words were soft and gentle as the teen released him. "No problem. What did you want to talk to me about?"
"I ... I kind of wanted to know what it's like for you. Teaching, I mean." Sighing, gathering his courage. "All of those people staring at you ... how do you stand it?"
Blair grinned. "Well, I like what I teach ... that helps. But I'm usually pretty well prepared for the lectures. I spend a lot of time studying and making notes."
"But don't you get nervous?" Daryl said quietly.
"Yeah, of course. I'm always a little nervous every time I teach. Not to mention shy." Looking into the teens eyes. Daryl dropped his head, and turned, crossing to the living room.
"Blair I can't handle this. I'm not good with words. If I have to get up in front of that entire gymnasium I know I'll look stupid ..."
The anthropologist managed to hold back his aggravation at Daryl's low self esteem which was so obviously part of the problem. He put his hands on the teens shoulders. "Daryl, you have worked so hard this year. You never would have been able to bring your grade average up if you were stupid." Daryl finally looked up at him. The look he received was almost hopeful.
He reached up to hold the young man. Daryl buried his head against Blair's shoulder. "I know you can do this, Daryl. You're smart, and you're funny ... and YOU were chosen to be the valedictorian out of your entire graduating class."
Daryl sniffled a bit, clinging tightly to his friend. "Thanks, Blair." A soft smile played at his lips as he pulled back.
Blair playfully swatted him in the shoulder. "Anytime, Daryl. I'm always here for you, OK?"
"OK." Daryl repeated, smiling broadly now.
They'd decided on a cozy little Italian restaurant that Joan favoured. The food was delicious and disappeared quickly. Simon glanced across the table, smiling. "Oh, I forgot to tell you before. Connor and Wells volunteered to help out with Daryl's party. They'll really be in their element with the decorations."
A pleased smile lifted her lips. "I appreciate the offer. It's going to be a big help." She trailed off wistfully, sipping her coffee.
After lunch they headed off to the car dealership that Brian had recommended. He was friends with one of the salesmen. When Simon had mentioned finding Daryl a car, he seemed sure that his friend would give them a good deal.
As they browsed through the lot, looking at several cars, a young salesman approached them, smiling. "Captain Banks?"
Simon blinked, a little surprised. "Yes."
The man held out his hand, Simon shook it. "Brian gave me a call, said you might be coming by." Simon smiled. "So, what kind of car are you looking for?"
"Oh, nothing too flashy. As long as it runs well, and it's safe, that's the most important thing."
Half an hour later, they were sitting down at the man's desk discussing the cost of the vehicle. The deal was closed soon after with a handshake and some signatures. Simon made a mental note to thank his detective for his advice when he returned to the station.
"Geez, Jim!" Blair yelped with surprise, nearly dropping his armload of grocery bags as the door to the loft was swung open before him.
Jim chuckled softly as he reached for one of the bags. "Do you want some help or not, Chief?" Blair smiled and surrendered the bag. Balancing the now lighter load, he shut the door and followed his partner into the kitchen, setting the bags down on the counter.
"Thanks, man." Blair said as he started to put the groceries away. "I was thinking maybe stir fry tonight. Is that OK with you?"
"Works for me." Jim smiled as he put the milk in the fridge.
Blair nodded as he finished emptying the bags. "OK, fine. I'm going to take a quick shower first, and then I'll get things started."
Jim was sitting on the couch, rolling his eyes at the news report as Blair emerged from the shower. With a annoyed sigh he flipped the television off and shook his head. Blair smiled. "Nothing good on?"
Jim grimaced. "Clinton, again."
"Oh." Blair laughed. They were both sick of hearing about that particular scandal. Padding into the kitchen, the grad student filled a pot with water and the rice and set it on the stove to heat. While waiting, he rummaged around in the fridge for vegetables and the chicken.
Walking over, Jim rinsed the vegetables in the sink and dried them. He chuckled at the stunned expression on his guide's face as he snagged a cutting board from the cupboard. "What?" Trying to smother a smile as he sliced the veggies.
Blair choked back his own laughter. "Who are you, and what have you done with Jim Ellison?"
Jim laughed. "I know I don't do this often ..."
"You're not kidding." Blair teased, smiling. "Normally it would take an act of God to get you to help out in the kitchen."
Ellison couldn't decide whether to glare at him or laugh. Glaring came more naturally, so he went with it. "Oh, that's cute, Blair."
The guide turned oh so expressive blue eyes on his friend. Jim smiled inwardly, wondering just where Blair had learned that particular skill. Blair grinned. "Oh, come on, I was just kidding. I really do appreciate the help, man."
Jim smiled. "Yeah, I know." He turned back to the counter, returning his attention to the vegetables. "Just don't get used to it." He tossed over his shoulder, chuckling as Blair slugged him playfully on the arm.
"I've been thinking about Daryl's gift. How about a set of luggage?" There was no missing the amusement in Jim's eyes. "No, seriously," Blair continued, turning the heat down to let the rice simmer, "graduation gifts are supposed to help a person in their transition from childhood to adulthood." Jim shrugged non-commitally. Sandburg grinned. "It's true, man ... I did this paper once ..."
Jim sighed inwardly as Blair chatted on. "Sandburg, the breadth of your knowledge never ceases to amaze me." He muttered as Blair finished his story. Fishing out a bowl, he dumped the contents of the cutting board into it and set it within Blair's reach.
Blair chuckled. "Seriously, Jim. What do you think about the idea?"
Jim shrugged. "I'm OK with it." Smiling he looked at his guide. "Why don't we meet for lunch tomorrow and we can pick up everything afterwards?"
"Fine with me." Blair said as he finished browning the chicken and added the vegetable mixture to it.
They chatted lightly over dinner, which vanished quickly. Between the two of them, the cleanup went relatively quickly and then Jim disappeared into the bathroom for a quick shower. Blair ventured into his room, re-emerging with a handful of papers. He settled into a chair at the table to continue grading a large stack of assignments.
Finishing with his shower, Jim slipped into his robe and padded out of the bathroom, rubbing his short hair with a towel. He chuckled as his partner's pen flew across the papers. "You're not finished with those yet? How much longer are you going to spend on them?"
"They better be done by tomorrow afternoon." Blair grumped, pausing to take a sip of his now lukewarm coffee. Making a face of distaste he set the mug down again. "I promised my students that I'd have the grades posted by then."
Walking by him, Jim picked up his coffee mug and carried it into the kitchen. Dumping its contents into the sink he poured out a fresh cup and brought it back over to the table. "Thanks." Blair smiled.
Jim returned the lopsided grin and tousled his guide's hair affectionately. "Just don't sit up all night again, Blair, OK?"
"OK." Blair shrugged, muttering under his breath about the paragraph he was reading.
Jim smiled. "Night, Chief."
"Night." Blair repeated, looking up briefly to smile as Jim ascended the stairs. "I'll try to be quiet."
Heading upstairs, Jim slipped out of his robe and stretched out on his bed. He managed to control his aggravation until around one in the morning as the scratching of Blair's pen across the paper became too much. With an exasperated sigh, he dragged himself out of bed, padded downstairs and snatched the pen away from the tired young man.
Sandburg looked up with bleary eyes. "I wasn't done with that."
Jim glared at him. "Sandburg, take a break for crying out loud. You need some sleep ... not to mention that I'd appreciate some. You said these didn't need to be finished until tomorrow afternoon. You can finish up in the morning."
Blair opened his mouth to argue, but thought better of it. "'Kay." He mumbled sleepily. With forced effort he started to gather the pile of assignments together, but Jim caught his hands.
"I'll take care of it. Just go to bed, Blair."
"Thanks." He yawned. Managing to keep his eyes open long enough to reach his room, he collapsed fully clothed on his bed, snoring lightly even before his head hit the pillow. Jim finished clearing off the table and brought the stack of papers into Blair's room.
With a soft sigh he gently removed Blair's shoes and socks. In one easy movement he pulled the soft blanket up to cover his exhausted friend. A smile lifted his lips as he left the room, pulling the door shut behind him. With a contented sigh, he headed back upstairs and buried his face in the coolness of his pillow.
Jim woke the next morning to the tempting smell of breakfast intermingled with coffee. Slipping into his fuzzy blue robe he padded downstairs. Blair slid a plate in front of him as he sat down at the table. "Smells good, Chief. Thanks." He was rewarded with a brilliant smile as the young man poured two glasses of orange juice and brought them to the table.
"Sorry about last night."
Jim chuckled. "It's OK. So, what's the plan for today anyway? When can you get away from the university?"
Blair swallowed a mouthful of food. "Well, I have office hours this morning, and I'll need most of that time to get the rest of those assignments graded and then I have a class. I should be able to meet you around twelve thirty."
"Sounds like a plan."
Smiling, Blair polished off his breakfast and took his plate into the kitchen to rinse it off. Then, slinging his backpack over his shoulder he headed towards the door. "OK, I have to get going. I'll see you later."
Jim nodded. "Right, Chief." Blair smiled and then disappeared out the door. Jim finished his breakfast and then rinsed his plate off. Grabbing a fresh towel he padded into the bathroom, rubbing his hand across the stubble on his chin.
Turning on the shower he stripped quickly and stepped underneath the spray, letting the warm water cascade down over his body. Tilting his face up into the water he washed up and turned the shower off. Reaching for his towel, he wrapped it around his narrow waist and walked over to the sink. Clean shaven, he emerged from the bathroom several minutes later and went upstairs to dress. Satisfied with his appearance, he flipped the lights off on his way out and locked the door.
Setting down his cup of coffee, Brian Rafe perused his phone messages. He looked up as the shadow of his captain fell upon his desk. "Morning, sir."
"Morning, Brian." Simon beamed at his detective. "I just wanted to thank you for your advice."
Rafe smiled. "No problem, sir. Nick's a really good guy. Did you find what you wanted?"
"Actually, yes."
Rafe took a sip of his coffee. "Great. I hope he gave you a good deal."
Simon nodded. "Yes, he did. Joan and I ended up spending a little more than we'd planned, but not much. Besides, Daryl's worth it." He clasped Brian on the shoulder and smiled as the detective's phone started to ring. Simon started to make his way back to his office as Rafe picked the receiver up, wanting to give the man some privacy.
"Did I hear you two right?" Jim's soft-spoken voice came from behind. "You found Daryl a car?"
Startled, Banks jumped a little. The man walks as softly as a damn cat. Simon mused to himself as he turned around. He returned Jim's gentle smile. "Yeah. We're going to give it to him before graduation, let him drive the three of us to the ceremony."
Jim chuckled gently. "Think you can handle that, Simon?"
Banks laughed. "Not everyone has your driving record, Jim. I'll live."
Jim smirked. "Oh, I'm sure you're right. Besides, Daryl's probably forgotten the driving advice I gave him." There was no missing the brief flash of fear in Simon's eyes as Jim fought to maintain control.
"Oh, God ..." Simon murmured to himself.
Jim lost his up-hill battle and began to shake with laughter, putting Simon out of his misery. A devilish smile lifted the sentinel's lips as the tall captain glared at him. "Funny. Very funny, Ellison." Simon muttered, trying to smother his own laughter as he walked past Jim into his office.
Still chuckling softly to himself, Jim detoured to the break room and poured himself a fresh cup of coffee. Smiling, he returned to his desk to continue working on his reports.
The morning had been rather uneventful. Jim was still sitting at his desk hunched over a file folder when Blair walked into the bullpen A soft smile played on the grad student's lips as he approached his partner's desk. "Hey, Jim. Ready to go?"
Jim looked up with a smile. "Sure." Tossing the file folder into a drawer he stood up and slipped into his jacket. "So, how was your morning, Chief? Did you get everything finished?"
Blair nodded. "Good thing too. I really didn't want to face a few dozen pissed off undergrad students asking why their grades weren't posted."
Jim grinned as they walked outside and climbed into the Expedition. "Can't argue with that." They continued to chat happily as Jim pulled out into traffic. After a quick, light lunch, they headed to the mall.
"There are a few different stores here we could try, man." Blair said as they hiked through the mall, wandering in and out of stores. After nearly an hour, Jim stopped and crossed over to a luggage store, Blair close behind.
Walking at a brisk clip, Jim led the way to the display at the back of the store. Crouching down, they inspected the different bags. Both men exchanged a pleasant grin at the quality of the luggage. "What do you think, Chief?" Jim asked, fingering the visible price tag. $200.00.
Blair looked at him. "It's a little expensive."
"Yeah, but the quality is really good. And it doesn't hurt that the price here is a little lower than in that designer shop down the mall."
Blair grinned. "You have a point there."
After paying, the two men left the store. Jim smiled, suddenly thankful that they had brought his truck with them instead of Blair's old Volvo. It took some rearranging, but finally every last piece of luggage was nestled into the Expedition.
Blair had left his car at the station; so, after a brief stop at the loft to unload the truck, they headed back to central. As they arrived, Blair slipped out of the truck and fished his backpack off of the seat.
"Are you coming in later?" Jim asked as he walked with Blair over to his Volvo.
"No. I have another class and then my study group is meeting. I'll see you at home tonight though, man." Opening the car door he tossed his backpack inside then he turned back to his partner, "How about I just pick up some take-out on the way home? Is Chinese OK with you?"
Jim nodded. "It's fine."
"OK. Well, I'll see you later, man."
"Yeah, later." Jim echoed, smiling.
With a soft, contented sigh he fished out the last report from his printer tray and signed it. It had been a long, slow day, with nothing of much importance happening. And so, here he was, watching the clock move like it had been coated in honey. Every muscle in his body was screaming at him, fully aware that he'd been in the same position for hours. Closing his eyes he raised a hand to his neck, rubbing gently, trying to relieve some of the tension he felt growing there. Finally, deciding it was useless, he got to his feet and went to the break room for a fresh mug of coffee. Returning to his desk he grabbed the stack of reports and went to knock on Simon's door.
Banks looked up from his desk. "Hey, Jim." A smile lifted his lips as he glanced at his watch. "I didn't realize you were still here."
Jim grinned. "Yeah, I just wanted to finish up these reports before heading out." Handing over said reports he downed the remainder of his coffee.
"Everything OK, Jim?"
"Fine, sir. I'm just a little tired, that's all."
"Well, get out of here then. There's nothing happening that can't wait. Enjoy your evening."
"Thanks, Simon." Jim smiled gratefully and complied.
The loft was cool and dark. Jim reached out with his senses, not surprised to find that Blair wasn't home yet. He took off his shoes and went over to the television, flipping on the late news and turning down the volume. Stretching out on the couch he rested his head against the welcome softness of the pillow and let his body relax into sleep.
The sound of the door opening, some three hours later, woke him. Clutching a large bag Blair walked into the loft. Closing the door the grad student tossed his keys into the basket. "I woke you up, didn't I?" He smiled sheepishly as Jim nodded. "Wow, two times in one week ..." he trailed off holding up the bag, "Peace offering?"
Jim laughed. "It's a start." He stood up, turned off the television and walked into the kitchen to grab a couple of plates and some silverware.
"So, how was your day?" Blair asked, grabbing a couple of beers from the fridge and bringing them to the table.
Jim shrugged. "It was OK, mainly paperwork, just a little too slow."
"Oh, I know. You want to be out there shooting the bad guys and saving the girls." Blair teased. Giggling he struck a pose, gracing Jim with, what he hoped was, a good 'cop' impression.
"Overboard, Sandburg." Jim smiled, the laughter evident in his voice.
Blair sat down at the table. "There's just no pleasing you is there?" He grumped, trying to keep the smile off of his face, unsuccessfully.
They polished off dinner quickly, chatting and laughing. Half an hour later, both men settled onto the couch to watch the latest Jags game.
Jim shifted restlessly, annoyed by the persistent tension in his shoulders and upper back. Closing his eyes he rubbed absentmindedly at his neck. Blair gently touched his arm. "Want some help?" He offered softly. At Jim's grateful nod he scooted closer and lifted his hands to his partners shoulders, kneading the flesh softly.
Ellison concentrated on the careful motion of Blair's hands. The touch by now so familiar that it was instantly soothing. He sighed contentedly as his body relaxed, the gentle rhythm of Blair's hands soon lulling him to sleep. A soft smile parting his lips, the grad student gently swung Jim's legs onto the couch. Pulling the afghan off of the back of the couch he draped it over his sleeping partner. After turning off the television he checked to make sure the door was locked and then flipped off the lights before heading to bed himself.
The smell of waffles cooking downstairs woke him, his favourite breakfast. Daryl's stomach growled in anticipation as he rubbed his eyes sleepily and got out of bed. After showering and dressing he padded downstairs to the kitchen where his mother ... and father were waiting for him.
A broad smile exploded onto the teenager's face as his father swept him up into a tender bear hug. "Good morning, Sleepyhead." Simon chuckled, gently pressing his lips against Daryl's temple.
"Morning." Daryl murmured as he pulled away, demanding a hug from his mother as well.
The three of them sat down to eat. Starving, Daryl was soon wolfing down a second helping of waffles, but there was no missing the mischievous smile his father was trying unsuccessfully to smother.
Daryl looked at his father. "What?"
Simon threw him a 'what did I do' face and managed to make his "nothing?" sound sincere. There was a wicked gleam in his eyes as he smiled in Daryl's direction and returned his attention to his breakfast.
Daryl ventured a glance at his mother. Her slender shoulders were trembling slightly with the effort to stifle her laughter. She looked away in avoidance, getting up to pour herself a fresh cup of coffee.
"Wha-at?" Daryl groused, his voice had an unmistakable edge to it. Simon smiled innocently at his son, and held out a large ball of blue yarn. Daryl looked at his father as though he'd lost his mind.
"Just follow it." With a bemused expression Daryl stood up and followed instructions. The trail of yarn led him to every nook and cranny of the house, driving him nuts. Simon had even looped it around the banister. Grumbling, the youth headed upstairs. Both of his parents were waiting for him by the front door as he stalked back downstairs.
He opened his mouth to protest his father's little 'game' but closed it again as he noticed the thin blue yarn disappearing through the door. Simon's eyes sparkled with mischief as his son yanked open the door.
Daryl's jaw dropped as he stood in the driveway. An oversized blue bow adorned the hood of a car, marking the end of the yarn trail. Hearing his dad's soft chuckle, he felt his father's hand fall onto his shoulder. "It's yours, son. Your mom and I are SO proud of you."
"Ohmanohmanohman ... this is so cool!" Bouncing excitedly Daryl spun around. Throwing his arms around his father he hugged him. Grinning Simon returned the vise grip, mentally wondering if his ribs were going to survive. Daryl continued to babble incoherently as he released his father and tackled his mother.
Smiling, Simon dangled a set of keys. "How about a ride to work?"
"Seriously?" Daryl's bouncing increased in intensity as he looked over at his mother. She nodded her approval. "COOL!" His hand shot out and snagged the keys.
Slipping into the passenger seat of the car, Simon watched his son. Practically vibrating with excitement Daryl managed to calm down long enough to go through the checklist ... seatbelts, mirrors ... satisfied, he started the car and checked all around before carefully backing down the driveway and onto the road. Checking all directions he shifted into drive and pulled out into traffic.
The transitions were smooth, and Simon smiled over at the excited youth behind the wheel. Daryl's focus was on the road, constantly checking all directions.
"Dad this is so great." Daryl enthused, venturing a quick smile at his father before quickly swivelling his head back around.
Simon chuckled. "You deserve it, Daryl." A wistful smile crossed his face as he thought of how much his 'little boy' had grown. His son was becoming an adult, with adult responsibilities. He felt an almost overwhelming surge of pride in his son's accomplishments. "I'm very proud of you." Looking over at his son.
Arriving at the station, Daryl checked the traffic, pulled the car over and parked. Turning off the engine he snuggled close to his father and reached out for a hug which was immediately provided. Simon held him close for several long minutes murmuring words of praise.
"I love you Daryl." He whispered into the top of his son's head.
"Love you too." Daryl echoed, tightening his grip.
When they finally broke apart they smiled at each other. "I want you to be extra careful on your way home, understood?"
"Got it." Daryl grinned. He reached out to touch his dad's arm as Simon started to get out of the car. "Do I get to pick you up too?"
Simon nodded. "It's your night. Your mother and I thought it was only fitting that you should be the one to drive to your own graduation." Daryl graced him with the patented Bank's smile.
"OK," Simon laughed, "your mother's waiting for you at home. I'll see you tonight."
"Bye, dad." Daryl said softly as his father got out of the car. Standing on the curb Simon watched his son start the car again, check traffic and pull away. Humming softly to himself he walked into the building.
Megan and Cassie were waiting for him in his office. "Good morning, ladies." Simon greeted warmly. "What can I do for you?"
"Morning." Both women chorused in unison.
"You never gave us an answer before." Cassie began, "Are you going to take us up on our offer?"
A sheepish grin lifted his lips. "Yes, definitely. I just wanted to run the idea by Joan first."
Megan smiled. "All right, then. We were thinking that we could get things ready while everyone's at the ceremony tonight. Would that be all right?"
Simon grinned and reached into his desk. He pulled out a spare set of keys and handed them over to Wells. "It's fine. Just let yourselves in. Anytime after 6:30 will be fine."
Cassie smiled as she took the keys. "Thanks, sir. Actually things have worked out perfectly. I loaned Blair my video camera so we won't miss anything tonight." Simon beamed at the pair as they left his office. Sighing contentedly he sat down to start going over a stack of reports.
Waking early, Jim listened to the quiet sounds of the loft. He could also hear Blair's steady, even heartbeat telling him his guide was still asleep. Getting off of the couch he padded into the bathroom. He showered quickly and slipped into his robe then walked back out into the kitchen to start the coffee.
With a smile he started to rummage around in the fridge. By the time Blair woke up he'd have breakfast on the table ... eggs, toast and maybe some bacon.
The smell of food penetrated his dreams. He decided it was time to get up, rising from his bed, he padded out into the kitchen.
"Morning, Chief." Jim smiled.
"Morning." Blair mumbled sleepily, running a hand through his long hair.
"Breakfast is almost ready. You have time for a shower." Jim suggested gently.
Blair emerged from the bathroom with a renewed bounce in his step. He padded into his bedroom to dress. Jim had breakfast on the table when he was finished and both men sat down to eat.
"This is really nice. Thanks, man." Blair grinned across the table at his partner.
Jim swallowed his mouthful of eggs and grinned back. "You're welcome." He paused to take a sip of his coffee. "You probably needed the sleep anyway, what with all the late nights you've been putting in."
Blair nodded. "Yeah, well those papers weren't going to grade themselves, man. Not with most of the anthro department out sick with the flu. It is nice to have them finished, though." Smiling.
"I hear that." Jim chuckled.
They finished up breakfast and Blair jumped up to do the dishes. He gave his partner a gentle shove out of the kitchen when he volunteered to help. "No way, Jim. You cooked, I'll clean up. It's only fair." Suiting actions to words he started to fill the sink with water.
Jim chuckled. "OK, suit yourself." Walking upstairs he shrugged out of his robe and dressed. He returned a few minutes later.
Blair looked up from the dishes. "Heading out, man?"
Jim nodded. "Yeah, I'll see you later, Chief." He smiled, then walked out of the loft. Humming softly to himself Blair continued with the dishes.
Finishing up, he was surprised to hear a knock at the door. Drying his hands on a towel he went to open it, Cassie stood on the other side. "Hey, Cass." Blair said softly. "What's up?"
Cassie smiled at him. "I wanted to ask a favour."
"Shoot."
She held up a large brown bag. "Well, Megan is busy with the decorations for Daryl's party and I was getting kind of lonely just standing around in my kitchen alone. So I was thinking that maybe if you weren't busy ..." She trailed off, chuckling a little as he pulled her into the loft.
"You're in luck." He laughed. "I've been covering a friend's classes while he was out sick. He's returning the favour by covering mine today so I can go to Daryl's graduation."
"Great." She enthused, walking into the kitchen and setting the bag on the counter. Blair followed her and started to empty the bag's contents onto the counter.
Cassie touched his arm. "You really don't have to help. I just wanted some company."
Blair smiled at her. "I don't mind. What can I do?"
"You could help me get the rest of the stuff out of my car. There's another bag in the back, not to mention my video camera."
"No problem." He kissed her softly. "I'll be back in a bit." He exited the loft, returning a few minutes later with the required items.
They spent the entire day together, cooking, laughing and just enjoying each other's company. Involved in a serious lip lock, neither of them noticed the door to the loft opening. "Well, at least you're keeping busy, Chief." Jim teased. A soft pink hue crept onto Blair's cheeks as his partner laughed softly.
Cassie smiled. "Hey, Jim."
Jim grinned back at her. "Hi, Cassie." He moved toward the bathroom. "Don't let me interrupt. I'm just going to take a shower before changing."
Cassie turned to Blair, gently caressing his cheek. "You should probably get ready too, hon. I'm supposed to be meeting Megan soon anyway."
Blair smiled. "OK." He gestured towards the platters of food on the counter. "I'll help you take everything down to your car."
It took them two trips, and some balancing, but the pair finally succeeded in transferring all of the food. Looping his arms around her waist, Blair pulled her close for a gentle kiss. Her hands came up of their own volition to cup his face. They stayed that way for several long minutes, finally breaking apart from the lack of oxygen.
He shut the door behind her as she climbed into her car. With a smile he waved as she pulled away from the curb. Jim had finished with his shower by the time he got back upstairs so he took the opportunity to dart into the bathroom. He stripped quickly and turned on the shower, stepping under the spray. He washed up, then turned off the water with a gentle twist.
Towelling his hair dry he padded into his room to dress for the ceremony. "Not too formal, but not jeans ..." he mumbled to himself as he picked through his closet. Finally deciding, he slipped into a deep crimson blazer and a stylish pair of black dress pants. Snagging a wide toothed comb from off of his dresser he dragged it through the mass of curls on his head, pulling the silken tresses back into a ponytail.
Walking out of his room he didn't see his roommate. "Jim?"
"Up here, Chief." Came the soft reply. He looked up briefly from the photo album as his friend came into the room, smiling fondly. "I can't believe how much Daryl's grown." He reminisced softly as Blair sat down on the bed beside him.
"I know. You're proud of him. I am too." Blair said, smiling, as well.
Jim chuckled softly, his eyes falling onto a picture of a young Daryl and himself. The boy had barely reached his belt buckle then. Now he fully expected to be looking up at Daryl in the near future.
Down the page was a picture of Daryl looking up at his father. There was no missing the worship and love in those expressive young eyes. In his minds eye he saw himself at that age. Much like Daryl his father had been the one man he'd always wanted to please. He swallowed past the tightness in his throat at the sudden wave of nostalgia.
Blair reached over and touched his arm. "Jim? Everything OK?"
Jim looked over at the young man with whom he shared an unbreakable connection. Smiling at the warmth his touch conveyed. "Fine, Blair." He replied softly, covering the smaller hand with his own. He stood up and closed the album, laying it down on the bed. "Ready to go?"
Blair nodded and turned to head back down the stairs. He didn't see Jim's hand brush away a sentimental tear that had the audacity to slip out from under his control.
The grad committee had really outdone themselves, the gymnasium looked terrific. The main platform of the stage had been decorated to look like a lush tropical jungle. Dozens of strands of twinkling white lights had been meticulously threaded through the rafters and across the top of the stage. The senior art class had painted a banner with the words 'Tackle the great adventure ... Congratulations class of 2000'
Noticing some familiar faces in the gathering crowd, Jim nudged his partner. Weaving through the sea of chairs the two men made their way over. "Hey, Simon." Jim greeted, chuckling at the obvious pride his captain exuded.
Banks smiled warmly. "Hey, guys." He turned to his wife. "Joan, you know Jim Ellison. And this is his partner, Blair Sandburg." She nodded, extending her hand. Jim shook it and moved over a little, letting Blair do the same.
Sitting down they chatted lightly. Chuckling softly Jim leaned over to his partner as the lights were dimmed and the senior band was introduced. "I wonder who's more nervous ... Simon or Daryl?" The tall captain kept fidgeting absentmindedly with his program, shifting ever so slightly in his chair. Blair smiled, smothering his own laughter.
Everyone rose as the graduates began their processional, filing into the gymnasium in two rows. Daryl's slender shoulders were shaking slightly as he walked by, clutching the paper in his hand. Blair caught his eyes briefly, smiling reassuringly.
The invocation was given, and then the principal and several members of the school board spoke briefly, their words full of praise. After a musical interlude it was time for the valedictory address. Daryl made his way onto the stage and over to the podium.
" ... There comes a time in your life when you realize that if you stand still, you will remain at this point forever. You realize that if you fall and stay down, life will pass you by. Life's circumstances are not always what you might wish them to be. The pattern of life doesn't necessarily go as you plan. Beyond any understanding, you may at times be led in different directions that you never imagined, dreamed, or designed. Yet if you had never put any effort into choosing a path, or tried to carry out your dream, then perhaps you would have no direction at all. Rather than wondering about or questioning the direction your life has taken, accept the fact that there is a path before you now. Shake off the "why's" and "what if's," and rid yourself of confusion. Whatever was - is in the past. Whatever is - is what's important. The past is a brief reflection. The future is yet to be realized. Today is here. Walk your path one step at a time - with courage, faith, and determination. Keep your head up, and cast your dreams to the stars. Soon your steps will become firm and your footing will be solid again. A path that you never imagined will become the most comfortable direction you could have ever hoped to follow. Keep your belief in yourself and walk into your new journey. You will find it magnificent, spectacular, and beyond your wildest imaginings."
As the applause thundered through the gym Daryl ventured a glance at his parents. There was no missing the pride in their eyes. When his father mouthed the words "I love you" Daryl felt his lower lip tremble a little from the effort to hold back his tears. He slipped quietly off of the stage and back to his seat.
After the ceremony Daryl raced down to the library to return his gown, and then back to the gym where some light refreshments were being served. Simon soon found his arms full of a wriggling bundle that was his son.
"Love you too." Daryl whispered brokenly, hiccuping through his tears. Simon held him snugly, glad his son had never outgrown being hugged in public.
"And you were worried." Blair chuckled gently, squeezing the teen's shoulder.
As Simon and the others kept Daryl busy his classmates began to arrive at the house, smiling shyly at the adults. Humming softly to herself Megan finished up with the last of the decorations and glanced around.
"Admiring your handy work?" Cassie teased. "You did a great job, Megan." She smiled, touching her friend's arm.
"Thanks." Megan smiled. She exchanged a sly grin with the chief of forensics as they both noticed the cars pulling up to the house. "They're here." She hissed to the gathered crowd. Flipping off the lights they stood motionless, waiting in silence.
As soon as the door opened, the gathered crowd shouted "Surprise!" Daryl looked at everyone, a delighted grin playing on his lips.
With a smile, Cassie slipped a CD into the stereo. From out of the crowd Daryl's girlfriend, Angie, approached him, kissing him softly on the cheek. Daryl just stood there. Blair chuckled.
"Don't just stand there, man. Ask her to dance." He whispered into the teen's ear.
Daryl smiled shyly, reaching out for Angie's hand. "May I have this dance?" He suggested gently, blushing a little at the smiles the adults were giving him. At her nod he pulled her gently into the middle of the living room, never taking his eyes off of her.
It was a great party. Daryl had introduced his parents and the other adults to his friends and then the graduates broke off into their own corner of the room. "Sort of makes you feel old, doesn't it?" Jim laughed as the teens partied.
"Nah," Blair replied, his eyes glinting with mischief, "well, OK. Maybe in your case..." He laughed as Jim slugged him gently.
Simon leaned in towards the two men, summoning their attention. "If you two could give it a rest for a minute, I could use your help in the backyard."
"You got it." Jim smiled.
As the night wore on Blair was sent into the living room to usher the teens outside where they were treated to a fireworks show.
The celebrating didn't end until well after midnight. The adults made short work of the cleanup as Daryl said goodbye to all of his friends. Sighing contentedly, the sleepy teen curled up on the couch, asleep before his head hit the pillow. With a gentle smile, Simon leaned down and softly kissed his son's forehead. Pulling the soft afghan off of the back of the couch he draped it over his son's body. "Congratulations, Daryl." He whispered proudly just before leaving the young man to his dreams.
The End