Espresso and Musings

"Let's call it hope. Hope is everything." ind. semi selective low activity live action multi-muse. Please read rules, especially about the low activity. Currently watching: CSI: Miami & The Haunting of Hill House

[espressoxmusings]

Continued from here. @house-of-lineage

Marisol's heart was in her stomach when she saw the blood on Horatio's face, instantly worried that something had happened to him. That he had been hurt. But when he swiped it, assuring her that it wasn't his, she relaxed. But only a little. Because according to him, there was an incident.

"An incident?" He questioned, brows furrowed in concern. "What kind of incident, Horatio? Are you," she scanned his face, his eyes. "Are you alright?" She knew he couldn't discuss everything about his job with her, and sometimes that was for her own safety, her own wellbeing, but it didn't stop her from caring about his safety, about his wellbeing. "I'm not worried about me. I'm worried about you." She took a step closer to him and reached out to touch his face, searching for the answer in his eyes. What he couldn't say with words, she often found in his eyes. "What's going on, Horatio?"

[house-of-lineage]

Open starter -

The crime scene is quiet - almost too quiet for Miami. The flashing blue and red lights reflect off the water, rippling through the dock like fractured glass. Lieutenant Horatio Caine steps under the police tape with the kind of calm authority that settles the entire scene around him. His sunglases hang loosely in one hand, turning slowly between his fingers.

He notices you before you speak, his gaze steady, patient and sharper than most people expect.

"You shouldn't be this close to an active investigation..." he says gently, not unkind. His voice carries that familiar calm - measured, protective. "But I'm guessing you already know that."

Horatio approaches with slow, purposeful steps, scanning the bruised sky above the bay, then the expression on your face. There's something about the way you're standing there - tense and uncertain that makes him take pause.

"If you saw something" he continues, "I need you to be honest with me. People's lives may depend on it." He tilts his head slightly, a subtle gesture that softens the intensity in his eyes. "And if you're not here as a witness... then tell me what brought you out tonight. This isn't a place anyone wanders into by accident."

A breeze drifts off on the ocean, carrying the distant hum of Miami life. Horatio slips his sunglasses back on.

"You talk to me? And I'll make sure you're safe. That's a promise."

--

Reply to this to start a thread! Simple as that.

[espressoxmusings]

It's him.

It has to be him.

But it can't be.

He's dead.

Allyson stood just beyond the yellow crime scene tape spread throughout the area, lurking from a distance, but close enough to recognize the body that lay lifeless... in a pool of blood. A scene so gruesome one would think young eyes such as hers would look away with haste, but not her. Not Allyson Nelson. The girl who has seen worse, who has been through worse.

She stood there, frozen, with a look upon her face that gave off many different emotions at once. Horror, anguish, distress, and maybe even anger. Disbelief, just as much, because... how. Why? Why did this happen? Why her friend? And why now? After she came to Miami for a fresh start, why was this happening now?

It wasn't until she heard the voice so close to her that Allyson was visibly startled back to reality - pulled from her thoughts, her agonizing memories - her body jumping as a result and her wide eyes landing on the man in front of her. It wasn't uncommon for her to lash out if someone got to close, if someone snuck up on her, but somehow, this time, she refrained from doing so. Maybe because there was something... calming about this man. Something that told Allyson she wasn't in any kind of danger, that he wasn't a threat, but still, she was cautious. Forever cautious.

She's silent at first, as though debating if she should say anything at all or keep quiet. Keep whatever she knew to herself. But given how close she was to the scene, and the look of horror and bewilderment upon her face, it was obvious she was here for a reason. She'd given that much away already, she was sure.

"You talk to me? And I'll make sure you're safe. That's a promise."

Safe. A promise. Was that even possible anymore? For her to be safe? She thought maybe she was after moving here to Miami, but her friend laying there, killed, made her think otherwise.

"I-I-I knew him... knew t-the, um, the victim.." Allyson admits with a gesture of her hand towards the body. "He was... h-h-he was my friend. Um... A-Alex," she takes a deep breath, an attempt to steady herself. "Alex Collins." Another deep breath as she looks over at the body, her eyes almost becoming distant, then. There was story there, a history, full of anguish and grief, and something akin to rage, caused by things a teenager shouldn't have had to endure. And here she stood, as either a suspect or a potential future victim. Again.

[caiiine]

Oh the disappointed looks on their face serves like a winning scores to the red - haired Lieutenant , and those small smiles he simply hides behind the ' Miami's Badass Cop ' ? It do curved into a soft little grin while he pretended to be contemplating the report he made hours ago .

Horatio truly couldn't help himself earlier when his eyes met for exactly split seconds , which is why his smiles turn into soft little grin - - - like a children being told that they'll be going to the playground . Yet , he is able to maintain that stoicism expression on his face despite smiling like an idiot ( and he knows it ) - - - and clearly he enjoys it more when Ryan and Eric is trying to figure out what makes the Lieutenant smiling . Or grinning .

" Whatever's got our Lieutenant smilin' like this - Must be pretty amazin'. " And that amazing things ? Is her . The very best thing ever happen to him . Only both of them knew what makes him happy but others couldn't figure it out just yet . Thanks to Horatio and his unreadable confusing expression .

[espressoxmusings]

Ryan and Eric continued to look between the two of them, wondering why their boss was so happy and wondering if Calleigh knew why. She claimed she didn't, but Ryan was hesitant to believe her because if there was anyone that knew more about Horatio than anyone else, it was Calleigh.

"Okay, but what--"

"Alright, boys, that's enough." Alexx cut in before Ryan could continue, ushering them towards the door. "Whatever's got our boss on Cloud 9 is his business and when he wants the rest of us to know, he'll tell us." She stated, giving Ryan a look of warning when he opened his mouth to argue. He suddenly felt like a kid being silenced by his mother. "But for now, let him be." She left no room for discussion and her quirked brow conveyed that.

Ryan sighed in defeat, arms crossing over his chest. "Yeah, yeah. Alright. Fine." He mumbled and Eric laughed.

"Come on, Wolfe. Let's get out of here before she puts us in timeout." Eric grinned, eliciting soft laughter from Calleigh. He tapped Ryan's arm and the two headed out of the room, but not before Ryan took one last glance at Horatio, muttering to Eric underneath his breath. "So, really no clue..." the rest of his words trailed off when they went out of sight.

Once the boys were gone, Alexx turned to both Calleigh and Horatio, looking at them with a grin on her face.

"...What?" Calleigh questioned, standing next to Horatio with her cup of coffee in her hand.

"Hmm," Alexx hummed, eyeing them suspiciously before she turned. "See you later, you two." She sang on her way out of the room, leaving just her and Horatio now. Alone.

She turned back to Horatio, unable to hold back the laughter that fell from her lips. "Rumor is you're pretty happy lately." She played along, unable to help herself. "Any chance you can let me in on what it might be?" Obviously she knew, but she was being cheeky right now. And she stood just a little closer to him, now that they were alone. "Because, uh, well, I'm feelin' pretty happy myself." Made evident in that beaming smile of her own, her green eyes looking at the very reason for her happiness.

[espressoxmusings]

Calleigh had just finished closing up. The case they dealt with today involved at least four different guns and that meant a lot of work for Calleigh. Paperwork, especially, but as always, she completed it with remarkable timing. More so because she didn't want to have to deal with it tomorrow or later on. She wasn't someone that procrastinated, even if it meant working extra late which wasn't uncommon for the CSI. To be quite honest, out of the entire team, with the exception of Horatio, of course, she's stayed the latest and longest - finishing up paperwork, tying up loose ends, whatever needed to be done she was determined to get it done that day if possible. Calleigh Duquesne wasn't one to leave things unfinished. She was dedicated to the job and she proved that every single day she came to work.

And today had been no different.

But finally, she was finished. After bidding goodnight to the nightshift Ballistics specialist, Calleigh grabbed her purse and headed for the elevator. Though, she wasn't heading home quite yet. Instead, she selected the floor that would take him to his office, where he'd been waiting for her, despite her urging him to head home after the long day he had. She could tell something was bothering him earlier, but sadly, they didn't have much time to talk throughout the day due to the different cases they were investigating and Calleigh having several guns and bullets to check. She spent almost the entire day inside of the lab, but she wasn't necessarily complaining: it's what she loved.

But now she could finally see him. Finally talk to him and make sure he was alright. She missed him. Even though she saw him this morning when they woke up together, they barely talked about that except once or twice about the case and that's when she noticed the troubled look on his face. But just as she had started to ask about it, he received a call that needed his full attention elsewhere. But hopefully she'd have his full attention now. For the rest of the night.

Arriving at his office, Calleigh didn't bother knocking, only because she knew he was waiting for her, but she announced her presence with a soft 'knock knock' as she walked in, expecting to find him at his desk, but instead... he was on the couch. Looking... comfortable. Very comfortable. "Well, don't you look all comfy," Calleigh said with a smile as she closed the door behind her, unable to help but admire the way he looked... sitting there like that. Body slightly slouched and legs slightly spread. Calleigh bit down on her bottom lip, seemingly enjoying the sight of him like that. She was tempted to sit... but not on the couch itself.

She cleared her throat, willing away that temptation. "You really could've gone home, Horatio," she said with an apologetic smile, noting how tired he looked... and the drink in his hand. She felt bad for keeping him waiting so long, but she was happy to finally be alone with him. She made her way over, standing closer and looking down at him, still fighting the urge to take a seat. "Alright, so what happened today?"

[caiiine]

He looked like he was beaten up by those reports - - - judging by the looks on his face and an almost red-rimmed eyes that seems so exhausted . And still , he is a defiant man where nothing can really defeats him .

However , tonight was different . Reports that has been returned to his table was observed with several misaligned evidence or whatever the upper level found to add another round of pressure to the poor man tonight .

When Calleigh came , he swears that almost half to nearly all of the pressure built up were internally evaporates . He had no better terms to say it himself .

❝ Just some reports that has returned back , ❞ Horatio responded with his usual gravelly voice but with an underlying way more exhausted tone . ❝ I guess they're not satisfied with the information I placed in the paper itself . ❞ Horatio set his glass on to the small coffee table , right besides the couch while his other hand reaches out to hers , gently tugging her to his awaiting lap .

❝ Won't you mind to stay here for a while ? Just for a little while . . ? ❞ He asked , almost as if desperately pleading her to stay with him .

[espressoxmusings]

"You're not serious." Calleigh sighed, annoyed for him. "It's Stetler again, isn't it?" If it was the case report she was thinking of, it had to be. "I don't understand how they can't see the personal vendetta he has against you. He's worse than a toddler, Horatio." Aside from Horatio, the one person that couldn't stand Rick Stetler was Calleigh. She'd been with Horatio since he was given the position of the Crime Lab Supervisor, having been the first one on his team, and because of that, she's witnessed the ongoing feud between the two men. A feud that was caused by Stetler's jealousy over Horatio being given Lieutenant and not him. Frankly, it was ridiculous.

The things she'd love to say to that man if it didn't put her job, or Horatio's at risk... try as he may, he'd yet to successfully take down Horatio and his team and Calleigh was confident it would stay that way. Horatio had their back and she had his. They all did, but especially, Calleigh.

She'd been about to ask if he wanted some company or if he preferred to be alone, but her question had been answered when he reached for her hand and tugged her towards him. Towards the seat she'd been resisting the urge to take, but at his invite, at his soft plea, Calleigh wouldn't dare refuse. Not when he looked up at her like he did, needing the company, her company. Maybe even her reassurance. Her touch.

Without a word, Calleigh gently straddled his lap, her legs on either side of him and her hands finding rest on his shoulder, but only for a moment before she moved one hand to his face, green eyes gazing into his - her own filled with a warmth that matched his, a warmth that was only for him. They're also bright and thoughtful, reading him in a way no one else can. She always sees the weight he carries on his shoulders and the way she looks at him is a reminder that he isn't alone. He never will be.

Silence falls between them, creating a soft stillness and she moves her fingers into his hair. "I'm not goin' anywhere." She reassures him, not just in this moment, but... ever. "Especially now that I'm comfy." She adds with a lighter tone, a shimmer in her eyes. Her gaze falls to his lips for a brief moment, the urge to kiss him suddenly strong, but she waits for him. Her focus on him and being here for him, whatever he needed.

[rpmemes-galore]

Send me “Cold?” to wrap a jacket around my muse’s shoulders

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol was trying her hardest to get used to having protection detail. She knew it was necessary after the attack at the spa this morning and that she wasn't the only one who'd been assigned protection. What with the men having escalated to home invasion, seemingly targeting some, if not all, of the women that were at the spa. Unfortunately, she seemed to be one of those targets, but to make matters worse, one of the suspects had been killed inside of her home while she was at the hospital. Needless to say, it freaked her out a little. Hence why the officer was stuck to her side, driving her to and from wherever it was she needed to go. Currently? He was driving her to the Miami Dade Crime Lab where she was to meet with Horatio before heading back to his place for the night, and possibly more, depending on how long it took for them to catch everyone involved. He'd invited her, earlier, to stay with him until it was over and she almost declined purely because he's done so much for her already, since the moment they met, but he insisted with that tender gaze of his and warm smile on his face that she just couldn't say no to. Nor did she want to say no to because of how much she enjoyed being around Horatio, how much she enjoyed being with him. Their relationship had certainly progressed rather quickly, but... she was happy.

He made her happy. Happier than she'd ever been, especially with this cancer weighing her down and making it difficult to enjoy life, let alone hope for a future. But Horatio? He made it easy. He made her feel hopeful and strong and like she didn't have to be afraid. Of anything. And the fact that he was still with her, even though she was sick and may not have a long future, it... it meant everything to her. He meant everything to her.

So with an excited, albeit nervous, smile on her face and a constant fluttering sensation in her chest, Marisol exited the police car, thanking the officer for his help today, and heading up the steps into the crime lab. She was familiar with the building, having been here quite a few times, and after checking in with the receptionist, she was directed to his office. She took the elevator to the correct floor and headed for Horatio's office, figuring it would be best to wait in there for them until he was ready to go home for the night, even sending him a text message that she was here, but to take his time. @ofmulti-fandoms

[ofmulti-fandoms]

Horatio stood in the big, tall window directly behind his desk as the Miami sun shone down on him, making the red in his hair stand out more. He hears the familiar clicks against the marble floor of the lab and he turns to see Marisol. He admired her bravery to give him a chance even with her health not at its best right now. He couldn't help but be mesmerized by her beauty as well as her kind heart.

"Hey sweetheart." Horatio says in a gentle voice, with a soft smile on his face. He approaches and gives her a hug and a kiss to her right cheek. "Everything alright on the way over?" He asks taking her hand and letting her take the comfy chair behind his desk.

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol's heart fluttered when he turned to greet her, the way he calls her sweetheart with that gentle voice of his never failing to make her weak at the knees. She reciprocates the hug happily, having missed this all day, having missed him even though she saw him a couple of times today; the first when he arrived at the crime scene and saw her there and the second when he invited her to stay with him. Though, he'd been working so their hands had been kept to themselves.

She leaned into the kiss with a smile, taking his hand in hers and sitting on his chair. "Yeah... the officer with me today was great. Just, um, just wasn't used to it, you know?" She smiled, her eyes on him. The cut on her forehead had been stitched up and bandaged, and though it hurt a little, along with the rest of her head, she was just thankful it wasn't any worse. "Is everything okay here? Were you able to find them all?" She asked, not letting go of his hand.

[ofmulti-fandoms]

Horatio holds her hand, kneeling down beside her as she sits in his chair. "I know this isn't exactly ideal, sweetheart. But you are in great hands. I'm proud of you for being a good sport about all this, with everything going on. I promise it won't be much longer. We are very close to getting our guy. Just do me a favor. If you are approached by Stetler or anyone for IAB don't say anything. Stir clear. He's still got a bug up his ass about some things I said to him, and he is searching for any reason to investigate me. You, understand?"

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol look relieved when he said they were close to getting the men. But she didn't doubt him. No. She never doubted Horatio. If there was one person that could get the job done, it was him. It's why she always felt so safe with him. Any worries from the day, or any other day, always disappeared when she was near him. Though, when she mentioned IAB, the concern returned to her eyes. "I do, but..." she swallowed. "Horatio, you're not in trouble are you?" Marisol asked, squeezing his hand. "You've done so much for me, more than I could ever truly thank you for, and I don't want to... be trouble for you." That was the last thing she wanted and it scared her. "If I'm..." she frowns. "if us seeing each other is going to cause you any problems..." She trailed off. She didn't want to lose what they had, but she didn't want him to lose his job or be at risk for it, either. Especially because of her.

[ofmulti-fandoms]

"No no no sweetheart...we, are not a problem at all. I said some things to my boss that got under his skin and rubbed him the wrong way. Nothing to do with you honey. I just gotta watch my back. Stetler plays dirty." Horatio says. "I will always choose you when it comes down to it, at the end of the day."

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol let out the breath she'd been holding after he reassured her that their relationship wasn't causing him any trouble. Still, she worried... after all, he was the one that saved her from prison time after she stupidly bought five baggies of marijuana for her entire cancer support group. Something she'd never do again. Then came her smile at his words about choosing her, making her heart melt all over again. He had such a way with words. How did she get so lucky? "You're too good to me, Horatio.." She smiled, her eyes dropping to their joined hands for a brief moment. "Sometimes I wonder what I did to deserve this... you." She sighed, chewing nervously on her bottom lip. "I just... I hope I'll get to have a lot more time with you.." That's why she was fighting this cancer so hard. Not just to survive, but to live.

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol was trying her hardest to get used to having protection detail. She knew it was necessary after the attack at the spa this morning and that she wasn't the only one who'd been assigned protection. What with the men having escalated to home invasion, seemingly targeting some, if not all, of the women that were at the spa. Unfortunately, she seemed to be one of those targets, but to make matters worse, one of the suspects had been killed inside of her home while she was at the hospital. Needless to say, it freaked her out a little. Hence why the officer was stuck to her side, driving her to and from wherever it was she needed to go. Currently? He was driving her to the Miami Dade Crime Lab where she was to meet with Horatio before heading back to his place for the night, and possibly more, depending on how long it took for them to catch everyone involved. He'd invited her, earlier, to stay with him until it was over and she almost declined purely because he's done so much for her already, since the moment they met, but he insisted with that tender gaze of his and warm smile on his face that she just couldn't say no to. Nor did she want to say no to because of how much she enjoyed being around Horatio, how much she enjoyed being with him. Their relationship had certainly progressed rather quickly, but... she was happy.

He made her happy. Happier than she'd ever been, especially with this cancer weighing her down and making it difficult to enjoy life, let alone hope for a future. But Horatio? He made it easy. He made her feel hopeful and strong and like she didn't have to be afraid. Of anything. And the fact that he was still with her, even though she was sick and may not have a long future, it... it meant everything to her. He meant everything to her.

So with an excited, albeit nervous, smile on her face and a constant fluttering sensation in her chest, Marisol exited the police car, thanking the officer for his help today, and heading up the steps into the crime lab. She was familiar with the building, having been here quite a few times, and after checking in with the receptionist, she was directed to his office. She took the elevator to the correct floor and headed for Horatio's office, figuring it would be best to wait in there for them until he was ready to go home for the night, even sending him a text message that she was here, but to take his time. @ofmulti-fandoms

[ofmulti-fandoms]

Horatio stood in the big, tall window directly behind his desk as the Miami sun shone down on him, making the red in his hair stand out more. He hears the familiar clicks against the marble floor of the lab and he turns to see Marisol. He admired her bravery to give him a chance even with her health not at its best right now. He couldn't help but be mesmerized by her beauty as well as her kind heart.

"Hey sweetheart." Horatio says in a gentle voice, with a soft smile on his face. He approaches and gives her a hug and a kiss to her right cheek. "Everything alright on the way over?" He asks taking her hand and letting her take the comfy chair behind his desk.

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol's heart fluttered when he turned to greet her, the way he calls her sweetheart with that gentle voice of his never failing to make her weak at the knees. She reciprocates the hug happily, having missed this all day, having missed him even though she saw him a couple of times today; the first when he arrived at the crime scene and saw her there and the second when he invited her to stay with him. Though, he'd been working so their hands had been kept to themselves.

She leaned into the kiss with a smile, taking his hand in hers and sitting on his chair. "Yeah... the officer with me today was great. Just, um, just wasn't used to it, you know?" She smiled, her eyes on him. The cut on her forehead had been stitched up and bandaged, and though it hurt a little, along with the rest of her head, she was just thankful it wasn't any worse. "Is everything okay here? Were you able to find them all?" She asked, not letting go of his hand.

[ofmulti-fandoms]

Horatio holds her hand, kneeling down beside her as she sits in his chair. "I know this isn't exactly ideal, sweetheart. But you are in great hands. I'm proud of you for being a good sport about all this, with everything going on. I promise it won't be much longer. We are very close to getting our guy. Just do me a favor. If you are approached by Stetler or anyone for IAB don't say anything. Stir clear. He's still got a bug up his ass about some things I said to him, and he is searching for any reason to investigate me. You, understand?"

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol look relieved when he said they were close to getting the men. But she didn't doubt him. No. She never doubted Horatio. If there was one person that could get the job done, it was him. It's why she always felt so safe with him. Any worries from the day, or any other day, always disappeared when she was near him. Though, when she mentioned IAB, the concern returned to her eyes. "I do, but..." she swallowed. "Horatio, you're not in trouble are you?" Marisol asked, squeezing his hand. "You've done so much for me, more than I could ever truly thank you for, and I don't want to... be trouble for you." That was the last thing she wanted and it scared her. "If I'm..." she frowns. "if us seeing each other is going to cause you any problems..." She trailed off. She didn't want to lose what they had, but she didn't want him to lose his job or be at risk for it, either. Especially because of her.

[espressoxmusings]

Plotted starter for @ofmulti-fandoms

Engaged.

She was engaged.

Izzie Stevens still couldn't believe it. It almost felt like a dream. But it wasn't. It was real. All of it. Denny made it through surgery, he had a brand new heart, he was alive and he asked her to marry him.

Was it wrong to feel so happy? Was it wrong to be smiling so much after what she had done? She knew she was in trouble and she expected suspension, maybe to even be fired, although it didn't seem like that would be happening, but all she could think about Denny and the fact that he was alive. Maybe not out of the woods just yet since the next few days would be the most important to make sure his new heart didn't have any problems, but she felt optimistic. Izzie Stevens always felt optimistic, but god, she was just so happy right now.

Dressed in her new maroon prom dress, the blonde made her way into the elevator, pressed the button to take her to Denny's floor and took in a deep breath as she stepped off of it and headed for his room. Her heart beat faster and faster the closer she got to his room, her nerves higher than ever. She turned the corner to his room and appeared in his doorway, absolutely glowing, and with that radiant smile of hers, she made her presence know. "See? I told you I would show you my dress."

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol was trying her hardest to get used to having protection detail. She knew it was necessary after the attack at the spa this morning and that she wasn't the only one who'd been assigned protection. What with the men having escalated to home invasion, seemingly targeting some, if not all, of the women that were at the spa. Unfortunately, she seemed to be one of those targets, but to make matters worse, one of the suspects had been killed inside of her home while she was at the hospital. Needless to say, it freaked her out a little. Hence why the officer was stuck to her side, driving her to and from wherever it was she needed to go. Currently? He was driving her to the Miami Dade Crime Lab where she was to meet with Horatio before heading back to his place for the night, and possibly more, depending on how long it took for them to catch everyone involved. He'd invited her, earlier, to stay with him until it was over and she almost declined purely because he's done so much for her already, since the moment they met, but he insisted with that tender gaze of his and warm smile on his face that she just couldn't say no to. Nor did she want to say no to because of how much she enjoyed being around Horatio, how much she enjoyed being with him. Their relationship had certainly progressed rather quickly, but... she was happy.

He made her happy. Happier than she'd ever been, especially with this cancer weighing her down and making it difficult to enjoy life, let alone hope for a future. But Horatio? He made it easy. He made her feel hopeful and strong and like she didn't have to be afraid. Of anything. And the fact that he was still with her, even though she was sick and may not have a long future, it... it meant everything to her. He meant everything to her.

So with an excited, albeit nervous, smile on her face and a constant fluttering sensation in her chest, Marisol exited the police car, thanking the officer for his help today, and heading up the steps into the crime lab. She was familiar with the building, having been here quite a few times, and after checking in with the receptionist, she was directed to his office. She took the elevator to the correct floor and headed for Horatio's office, figuring it would be best to wait in there for them until he was ready to go home for the night, even sending him a text message that she was here, but to take his time. @ofmulti-fandoms

[ofmulti-fandoms]

Horatio stood in the big, tall window directly behind his desk as the Miami sun shone down on him, making the red in his hair stand out more. He hears the familiar clicks against the marble floor of the lab and he turns to see Marisol. He admired her bravery to give him a chance even with her health not at its best right now. He couldn't help but be mesmerized by her beauty as well as her kind heart.

"Hey sweetheart." Horatio says in a gentle voice, with a soft smile on his face. He approaches and gives her a hug and a kiss to her right cheek. "Everything alright on the way over?" He asks taking her hand and letting her take the comfy chair behind his desk.

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol's heart fluttered when he turned to greet her, the way he calls her sweetheart with that gentle voice of his never failing to make her weak at the knees. She reciprocates the hug happily, having missed this all day, having missed him even though she saw him a couple of times today; the first when he arrived at the crime scene and saw her there and the second when he invited her to stay with him. Though, he'd been working so their hands had been kept to themselves.

She leaned into the kiss with a smile, taking his hand in hers and sitting on his chair. "Yeah... the officer with me today was great. Just, um, just wasn't used to it, you know?" She smiled, her eyes on him. The cut on her forehead had been stitched up and bandaged, and though it hurt a little, along with the rest of her head, she was just thankful it wasn't any worse. "Is everything okay here? Were you able to find them all?" She asked, not letting go of his hand.

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol was trying her hardest to get used to having protection detail. She knew it was necessary after the attack at the spa this morning and that she wasn't the only one who'd been assigned protection. What with the men having escalated to home invasion, seemingly targeting some, if not all, of the women that were at the spa. Unfortunately, she seemed to be one of those targets, but to make matters worse, one of the suspects had been killed inside of her home while she was at the hospital. Needless to say, it freaked her out a little. Hence why the officer was stuck to her side, driving her to and from wherever it was she needed to go. Currently? He was driving her to the Miami Dade Crime Lab where she was to meet with Horatio before heading back to his place for the night, and possibly more, depending on how long it took for them to catch everyone involved. He'd invited her, earlier, to stay with him until it was over and she almost declined purely because he's done so much for her already, since the moment they met, but he insisted with that tender gaze of his and warm smile on his face that she just couldn't say no to. Nor did she want to say no to because of how much she enjoyed being around Horatio, how much she enjoyed being with him. Their relationship had certainly progressed rather quickly, but... she was happy.

He made her happy. Happier than she'd ever been, especially with this cancer weighing her down and making it difficult to enjoy life, let alone hope for a future. But Horatio? He made it easy. He made her feel hopeful and strong and like she didn't have to be afraid. Of anything. And the fact that he was still with her, even though she was sick and may not have a long future, it... it meant everything to her. He meant everything to her.

So with an excited, albeit nervous, smile on her face and a constant fluttering sensation in her chest, Marisol exited the police car, thanking the officer for his help today, and heading up the steps into the crime lab. She was familiar with the building, having been here quite a few times, and after checking in with the receptionist, she was directed to his office. She took the elevator to the correct floor and headed for Horatio's office, figuring it would be best to wait in there for them until he was ready to go home for the night, even sending him a text message that she was here, but to take his time. @ofmulti-fandoms

[caiiine]

SEATS with Calleigh (@espressoxmusings)

It's late hours and M . D . P . D were nearly silent , except for those who worked at the night shift . Yet , night shift almost felt like nobody is even working around and just purely silence except for the hum of the air-condition within his office .

Horatio isn't a drinker but tonight , something that happens today especially with the report that needs his immediate nor urgent attention made him poured out cognac into the glass , which he swirled mindlessly in his hand . . . while the report is swirling in his head .

Ditch the office chair , the Lieutenant seems to be seated himself into the couch he rarely took a seat on - well , he is always outside his office , doing the ' Lieutenant ' things .

Sunk himself back to the couch , his legs spread comfortably forward and the Lieutenant looked almost like he is tired but still highly alert . Thanks the cognac to keep his mind awake for a little .

[espressoxmusings]

Calleigh had just finished closing up. The case they dealt with today involved at least four different guns and that meant a lot of work for Calleigh. Paperwork, especially, but as always, she completed it with remarkable timing. More so because she didn't want to have to deal with it tomorrow or later on. She wasn't someone that procrastinated, even if it meant working extra late which wasn't uncommon for the CSI. To be quite honest, out of the entire team, with the exception of Horatio, of course, she's stayed the latest and longest - finishing up paperwork, tying up loose ends, whatever needed to be done she was determined to get it done that day if possible. Calleigh Duquesne wasn't one to leave things unfinished. She was dedicated to the job and she proved that every single day she came to work.

And today had been no different.

But finally, she was finished. After bidding goodnight to the nightshift Ballistics specialist, Calleigh grabbed her purse and headed for the elevator. Though, she wasn't heading home quite yet. Instead, she selected the floor that would take him to his office, where he'd been waiting for her, despite her urging him to head home after the long day he had. She could tell something was bothering him earlier, but sadly, they didn't have much time to talk throughout the day due to the different cases they were investigating and Calleigh having several guns and bullets to check. She spent almost the entire day inside of the lab, but she wasn't necessarily complaining: it's what she loved.

But now she could finally see him. Finally talk to him and make sure he was alright. She missed him. Even though she saw him this morning when they woke up together, they barely talked about that except once or twice about the case and that's when she noticed the troubled look on his face. But just as she had started to ask about it, he received a call that needed his full attention elsewhere. But hopefully she'd have his full attention now. For the rest of the night.

Arriving at his office, Calleigh didn't bother knocking, only because she knew he was waiting for her, but she announced her presence with a soft 'knock knock' as she walked in, expecting to find him at his desk, but instead... he was on the couch. Looking... comfortable. Very comfortable. "Well, don't you look all comfy," Calleigh said with a smile as she closed the door behind her, unable to help but admire the way he looked... sitting there like that. Body slightly slouched and legs slightly spread. Calleigh bit down on her bottom lip, seemingly enjoying the sight of him like that. She was tempted to sit... but not on the couch itself.

She cleared her throat, willing away that temptation. "You really could've gone home, Horatio," she said with an apologetic smile, noting how tired he looked... and the drink in his hand. She felt bad for keeping him waiting so long, but she was happy to finally be alone with him. She made her way over, standing closer and looking down at him, still fighting the urge to take a seat. "Alright, so what happened today?"

[espressoxmusings]

“ hey, look at me… I can do this. okay? “ Kate Carter to her parents

The wind was picking up with each second, growing stronger and stronger with the storm above them, around them. The sky a dark and eerie green color, but they didn't have to look at the radars to know why. They already knew. This is what Bill and Jo did for a living - what they've done for several years and what they'd been training their daughter on for the past couple of years. Though, it didn't make them worry any less, which was a little hypocritical considering how often they put themselves in danger because of the job, for the job. But it was different when it was your child.

Still, she'd been trained. Not only by them, but by other professionals, too.

"Fine." Jo was the first to agree, though not without hesitation. "You take the lead on this one, but we're not going to be far behind." There was no room for discussion. It was a fair trade. Kate leads in her own vehicle, but they follow not too far behind. Enough to give her room to work, but also enough for them to intervene should she be put in danger.

"Jo," Bill almost wanted to argue, but she stopped him.

"She's going to be on her own at some point," She told him with a sad smile. "I think it's time she shows us she's ready." She told him. "Besides, she's your daughter, remember?" She said with a smirk, knowing she didn't have to explain more than that. There was a reason why she was nicknamed Little Extreme. A name she earned when she was much younger.

Bill sighed. "Alright, alright. Just... just be careful, alright? Watch your surroundings, pay attention to the sky, and--" A loud clap of thunder interrupted his words. They needed to get going now.

"Go." Jo told their daughter, giving her a kiss on the cheek. "We'll behind you."

[espressoxmusings]

Continued from here. @caiiine

The beeping on the machine had been slow and steady for the past few hours while Marisol slept, but now that she started to come to, the beeping increased in frequency. Even more so when her body started to twitch and shake, a response of the nightmare she was having. To the panic it was causing her body.

Her heart started to race and the machines picked up on it, the beeping growing faster and faster. And it was when Horatio's hand slipped from hers just before exiting the ambulance that Marisol woke up with a start, her eyes wide and suddenly blinded with the bright light that filled the room. She was somewhere unfamiliar and the machines continued to pick up on her panic, but it was when she heard Horatio's voice next to her, followed by the warmth of his hand grabbing hers, that she began to calm down. That she was able to remember where she was and why she was even here.

So, it wasn't just a nightmare. It was a memory.

She really had been shot. And the more she came to, the more she could feel the pain in her abdomen where she had been hit.

Marisol's hand closed around Horatio's, holding it tightly in hers as though scared he was going to disappear. That he was going to leave again. "You're here..." She murmured in relief, her voice hoarse. Painfully dry. She took in a deep breath, the small action enough to wake her wince in pain, causing her hand to squeeze his even harder. It hurt to move and it hurt to breathe. What damage had the bullet done? Were they able to get it out? She didn't know if it had been a through and through. All she remembered was getting shot and falling into Eric and-- Marisol's heart sank.

"E-Eric.." She struggled out, her body filling with panic again, causing the machines to start beeping rapidly once more. He had been shot, too. Right before her. "H-Horatio... i-is he, is... is Eric.." She was almost afraid to ask, the thought of him being hurt or worse making her eyes fill with tears. She could barely talk without her throat or abdomen hurting, but she hoped Horatio knew what she was trying to ask.

[espressoxmusings]

Marisol happily let Horatio pull her even closer, little to no space left between them now. This is how she preferred it. How she wanted it all the time when she was with him. Her body held against his, as closely as possible, almost melding into him. She felt safest when she was in his arms like this, even forgetting that she had cancer, that she was fighting for her life. He gave her more strength than anything else. Since meeting him, she's fought harder. She felt as though she had even more of a reason to fight and to win, to beat this illness that weighed her down some days, that made her wonder if it was worth fighting against.

But it was. Horatio reminded her the fight was worth it and that she was strong enough to win. Any time doubts filled her mind, so would his voice and the doubts would fade away. Anytime he touched her, she'd feel the illness melt away. Anytime he smiled at her, her heart would flutter and her stomach flip, filled with butterflies.

And when he kissed her? Oh, she'd go weak at the knees and completely melt into his body. He truly breathed new life into her since the moment they met, and more so, since their first kiss.

And that was happening again in this moment. Though, she'd argue this kiss was possibly better than all the rest because of where they were. Because of how closely, how possessively, he held her and how he was kissing her with such fervor that her knees were shaking. He was claiming her. He was showing everyone that she belonged to him, belonged with him, and it was everything to the young woman. This fierce, powerful and intimidating Lieutenant was making it known that they were together. That he loved her. He chose her. It was a side of him only Marisol knew, that only she would ever know, and god, it made her fall even deeper in love with him.

And admittedly, it was arousing. To be kissed so passionately without regret, to be loved so completely without doubts. Never had Marisol been loved this way Never had she been kissed this way. Never had she been cherished. Horatio made her feel all of that and so much more.

The kiss broke and Marisol was breathless. She was practically panting, her body leaning heavily against his, and a blush spreading throughout her face. And then he said those words and she let out a soft little moan, nodding and smiling. "Y-yes. I... I am," she said, her eyes falling closed as their foreheads came together. "I'm yours, Horatio." Marisol licked her lips, the taste of him strong. Her lips still warm and tingling. "I... wow." She chuckled breathlessly, still so stunned by that kiss. In awe and aroused.

Sighing, Marisol tried to move closer, but she was already as close as possible. Still, she tightened her hold on him and couldn't resist kissing him again. "Tell me... I'll always... be yours, Horatio..." She murmured, begged, in between the kissing. Her eyes welled with tears, overcome with emotion. Overcome with how deeply she loved him. "Promise me, please...I-I don't..." another shaky breath. "I don't ever want to stop being yours, okay?"

[caiiine]

❝ You're already mine since the day I laid my eyes on you . ❞ He spoke and followed with a silenced yet heavy exhale after the sharing the passionate kiss with her .

His other hand raised and gently cupped her face . Oh how her skins felt so soft against his rough calloused hand as his thumbs rubs circle , and wiping away the tears that rolled down her cheek . For the moment , he didn't move and kept his face close while resting foreheads upon hers .

Once more , his blue eyes gaze deeply into her and something in him beneath those blue eyes , cracked down . Perhaps it's the composure he held up for too long went slightly faltered a bit . Only she could make him feel so .

❝ You're the one thing in this world untouched by all this chaos . ❞ He had meant about all the weight , the chaotic life and every . ❝ You are the only one that keep me grounded when everything goes wrong . ❞ He let out a shaky breath , his composure are completely dropped down as he confessed so with a soft tone - - - the tone that only she is able to listen to it .

Horatio lowered his head , his lips almost touches upon her earlobes and nearly to her jaw - - - almost as if he needed to kiss her there or leaving his mark on her . ❝ You don't know it that you brought me peace in a world that doesn't offer very much . And I just wanted to say . . . ❞ He trails as his head turns and now his lips almost closing in to hers once more , ❝ I love you , Marisol . I love you . ❞

[espressoxmusings]

❝ You're already mine since the day I laid my eyes on you . ❞

Did he realize what he was doing to her? Maybe he did and that's why he kept saying these things to her, because he knew what he was doing to her. What he did to her. How she was weak at the knees for him. How her heart was constantly fluttering because of him. The butterflies in her stomach, too. His words weren't just romantic, but arousing, too. Only this man could be both at the same time.

But to be told she was already his from the moment they met? God, it was sexy. It was everything. He was everything. And he always made her feel like she was everything in return. The way he loved her, the way he cherished her, and took care of her. Never in her life did she expect to be loved like this. Nor did she think she'd have time to experience it because of her cancer, but Horatio... he made it possible. He made anything and everything possible. Everything she wanted in life, she found with Horatio.

His thumbs wiped her tears away, but more fell from her eyes. She was just so overcome with emotion, but in the best possible way, and she couldn't help but shed tears over it. Yet at the same time, in this moment, she so badly wanted to make love to him, but they couldn't. Obviously. "You've... given me a life I never thought possible, Horatio." She murmured, still sounding so breathless. "I never thought," deep breath. "I never thought I'd... have any of this. Joy. Love.." A sniffle. "a future, but you've... you've given all of that to me. And so much more and I... god, I'm sorry," a tearful laugh, almost embarrassed that she was crying.

"I feel that you've given me so much more than I've been able to give you," he's done so much for her. Helping both her and her brother, being there and being patient during her cancer treatments, and just being her source of strength and willing to give her anything and everything she needed. Or wanted. What did she do to deserve him? She shivered when he kissed just below her ear and then he said those words that never failed to make her heart dance and soar. Words that only she was lucky to hear. To be loved by Horatio Caine? There was no feeling greater or more wonderful than that.

"I love you, Horatio." She kissed him again. "I love you so much." She breathed into the kiss, her arms wrapping around him once more, wanting to be as close as possible for as long as possible. For as long as he had left during his lunch hour, which didn't go as they planned, but for Marisol, this was even better.

After a moment, Marisol broke the kiss. Once again, breathless. "Tonight," she started, her lips ghosting over his for a moment before moving up to his ear, her voice barely above a whisper and her breath warm. "make me yours again." His to claim, to have, to keep.

[espressoxmusings]

Continued from here. @caiiine

The two guys closely watched their boss as he raised the mug to his lips and took a drink, still smiling. They've seen him smile before, especially Eric, but this... this was different.

Really different.

This wasn't related to the case they were working. This wasn't related to some dumb joke someone may have told their boss.

No. This smile was... personal.

Ryan waited expectedly for an answer, his brow quirked, but when their boss only gave them silence, Ryan looked to Eric, then Alexx. "He's, uh, he's not gonna tell us, is he?"

Eric smirked. "Nah. Not yet, anyway. But it's something good. Really good. Right, H?" He asked, an attempt to get some information about of him.

Alexx chuckled which earned her a look from Ryan. "What?" She asked after noticing that look.

"Do you know something?"

"Me?" She scoffed. "Honey, this man is the most private man I know, but when he has something to share, he'll share it." She grinned, though she did have her suspicions. But she wouldn't be sharing those out loud. And not with anyone that wasn't Horatio first.

"Yeah, but you're always good at knowing when things are up with one of us." Ryan reminded her, then looked at Eric, muttering below his breath. "You think he's seein' someone?"

Eric considered it. "Maybe, I don't know. But I bet I know who does.."

Ryan had been about to ask who, but then Calleigh walked into the room with a bright smile of her own.

"Oh, wow. Didn't know we were havin' a party. Where was my invite?" She joked with a giggle, her eyes landing on Horatio and for a brief moment, her smile widened and her heart fluttered, which went unnoticed by the guys, but not by Alexx. Though she kept quiet "'scuse me," Calleigh whispered to her boss, reaching next to him to pour herself a cup of coffee, her arm just barely brushing against his.

She turned to look at everyone, her brows furrowing in confusion. Especially when she looked at Eric and Ryan. "You guys okay?"

"Yeah, we're uh, we're just trying to figure out what's goin' on with H." Eric answered, prompting Calleigh to give him a concerned look.

"Is somethin' wrong?" She was quick to ask, suddenly worried.

"No, no. Nothing like that. It's the opposite, actually." Eric clarified which prompted another confused look from Calleigh. "He's... smiling."

"A lot." Ryan added. "And not, you know, not just any smile. It's like..."

"Different." Eric said. "Like something's got him really happy."

"Or someone," Ryan smirked, arms crossed over his chest. "And we were, uh, we were hoping you might know."

Calleigh tried not to choke on her coffee. She cleared her throat after taking a drink of the hot liquid. Did they know something? "Me? Why?"

"Cause, uh, you've known him longer than any of us." Ryan answered. "You've been with him since the beginning, right? And, well, you know him more."

Calleigh was trying her hardest not to laugh or give anything anyway. She looked at Horatio as though studying him, trying to play along. But it allowed her to look at him, with that certain look in her eyes only Horatio knew. A look only for him. "Different smile, huh?" She asked, pretending as though she hadn't noticed it, but oh she did. And she knew why. The same reason she'd been smiling more, as well. The answer was right in front of the other, but no one needed to know that. Not yet.

Alexx was watching the two of them closely, her suspicions strengthening, but again, she kept quiet. She just grinned.

After a moment of gazing into his eyes studying him, Calleigh shook her head. "No idea guys, sorry. But even if I did know somethin', I wouldn't say." Which showed her loyalty to Horatio. How much she respected him and cared for him. They were right that she did know him more than anyone else, but she wouldn't out anything about his life. Or their life.

Eric and Ryan looked disappointed.

"But, you know, whatever's got our Lieutenant smilin' like this," Calleigh added, a smug grin behind her mug. "Must be pretty amazin'." Oh, she couldn't help herself.

[espressoxmusings]

from @caiiine to Calleigh :

Horatio had noticed that Calleigh were shuddering in her usual shirt and field vest . While daytime in Miami is extremely hot , nighttime is much harsher - - - where at the same time crime scene is reported and requires their intervention .

He slips off his black coat as he approaches her from the back , and gentle as ever , Horatio drapes it over her shoulder .

❝ You're freezing and I won't let my best ballistics expert catching cold . ❞

It looks oversized for her and those sleeves nearly cover her hands . But at least , it is warm and smells of his very own scent .

It wasn’t often that Horatio’s team worked at night, but it wasn’t uncommon either. Sometimes whatever investigation they had during the day, continued on into the night. Sometimes into the late hours and it seemed as though this investigation would be one of them. Not that she minded. This was her job, her duty, and she loved what she did.

She loved her team. She loved helping people. She loved being able to get answers for the victims and their families. Something she and Horatio had in common which is why they always worked so well together. Their dedication to the job, their willingness to work no matter the hours. Perhaps it had something to do with working with each other, too.

But the one thing Calleigh didn’t particularly love? The cold. What people didn’t realize, or think, is that Miami could get cold. Especially at night. And tonight, was one of those nights. The night prior? It was mostly warm, but it seemed as though a cold front decided to ‘bless’ Miami which the ballistics expert hadn’t been prepared for. No jacket. No long sleeved. Just her usual slacks and short sleeved blouse.

Since the moment she arrived, she’d been shivering. Ryan teased her about it which she brushed off with a roll of her eyes and snarky comeback before getting back to work, surveying the crime scene and looking for any bullet casings. It was a little hard to focus with the amount of shivering, wishing she would’ve checked the weather today, but it didn’t stop her from working. Nothing ever did, really.

But that’s when she felt it. Felt him. His coat, warm and large, being draped over her shoulders and that was more than enough to warm the blonde. Both inside and out. She smiled and looked up at him, her eyes holding appreciation within, her smile the same. As well as a certain warmth she felt only when she was around him. She let out a soft giggle and reached up to pull it further around her shoulders. “It’s been a while since I’ve been sick, you know, but I suppose tonight would be the night for it, huh?” It was a night colder than it had been in a while.

Her heart fluttered as she slipped her arms through the sleeves. It smelled of him and that made Calleigh feel even warmer. It almost felt like he was holding her and that thought made her weak at the knees. It made her felt and that was made evident in the way she relaxed and stopped shivering. “Thank you, Horatio.” She murmured sweetly. There was no man sweeter or more caring than him. “You sure you won’t get cold now?” She asked, caring just as much for him. “If you do, I’ll lend you my jacket.” Calleigh couldn’t help but tease, pulling the jacket further around her, clearly feeling at ease. Comfortable. Safe.

All things, and more, Horatio never ceased to make her feel.

[caiiine]

For @espressoxmusings - Pillow Duty

Horatio didn't respond but only to let out a low hum - almost like a chuckle - before laying still . Both hand rested on top of his abdomen , almost looked relaxed but the gentle massage from her only deepening his relaxation .

❝ If you keep doing that , I won't be getting up sooner . ❞ He said quietly , eyes closed as he shifted his head , face against her body with those calm expression . For once , he almost looked so much at peace , a bit of a boyish if she ever thought so .

[espressoxmusings]

Calleigh felt his body vibrate when he let out the low hum, followed by the feeling of his body relaxing which is what she was hoping for. If there was one person that deserved to relax, that needed to relax, it was her Lieutenant. The man that never stopped working, the man that gave it his all every single day to keep the city and its people safe. To bring justice to the victims and their families. Everyone on the team worked hard, but Horatio? He went above and beyond. Rarely, if ever, putting himself first.

So, in this moment? She was putting him first. She was taking care of him like he always took care of everyone else.

They didn’t have anywhere to be at the moment so she was in no rush to go anywhere. In fact, she wanted to stay here with him like this. “Hmm, then I guess I’ll keep going.” She chuckled, gliding her nails over his scalp and back into his hair. Her heart fluttered when he turned his head and nuzzled his face into her stomach, her fingers scratching behind his ear for a few seconds. To be the one that saw this side of Horatio? Did it make Calleigh happy. She… never intended to fall in love with him, with her boss, but it happened and there was no going back. She didn't want to go back.

How could she when he looked so at peace like this? Nuzzled into her stomach, completely and utterly relaxed under hands. “Not so bad when you let someone take care of you, is it?” She murmured in a soft whisper, leaning down to press her lips to his forehead, closing her eyes and smiling. One hand moved down to his torso, rubbing her nails up and down his clothed chest, then she stopped on his hand and threaded her finger through his, with a sweet smile, giving it a gentle squeeze.