Dead Cheat

In the middle of June the restaurant and the house sold. She let the staff know by the middle of June the restaurant would be closing.

Kailani texted Horatio and told him she would be back in Florida around July and would get the kids enrolled in school when she got there.

By the beginning of July Kailani had the house and restaurant packed up and handed over to the owners.

She and the kids left Alaska on July 5th. Their flight left at 2 a.m. and arrived in Miami at 4:15 p.m.

Horatio met her by the luggage carousel

She was carrying Kalani on her back, and Bella on her hip.

He watched her carrying the kids and smiled, she looked so beautiful

Kailani found the carousel where she needed to be and saw Horatio. She walked over to him. "Hi" she said smiling

"Hi" he said

The carousel started. She found their bags and told Horatio which ones were theirs. He got them and took the three of them and their luggage to the car.

She had forgotten how muggy it could be in Florida. She gotten so usd to Alaska and it's colder temperatures that she now felt like she was in a crab pot

"Welcome home. It's suppose to rain later" Horatio told her

"No surprise there" she said

He drove Kalani and the kids to his place and helped her unpack the car.

She carried the kids in the house, it would take the three of them a few days to adjust to the time difference.

"We're still on Alaska time" she said. It's going to take me some time to adjust again, it's after 2 in Alaska and it's just now after 6 here"

"Are you hungry? I can order out for you" Horatio offered

"Pizza" Kailani suggested. It's easy to heat up, and I can unpack my stuff up until you go to bed"

He ordered a large pepperoni pizza for all of them

The kids slowly woke up, both one on each side of the couch.

"Mama!" Bella whined.

"I'm here, Bella. What's wrong?" Kailani asked

"I'm hungry...when are you starting dinner?" she asked

"Oh pumpkin I'm not cooking today. Remember today was moving day? We are in Florida now, and we're having pizza for dinner"

"Again?" Kalani asked.

"Yes again. I will make dinner tomorrow" she promised. "It's later here then it is in Alaska, it's after 6 here and just after 2 there. So yes I would be making dinner right now, say hello to Horatio" she told the kids, reintroducing him

"Hi" they said

"You guys still look so tired" he said

"We are! Mama kept us up in the airports" Bella said

"Horatio?" Kalani said

"Hmm?" he asked

"What can you tell us about our dad?" Kalani asked

Kailani groaned inwardly. Couldn't they have waited a little longer to ask about him?

Horatio was getting ready to answer when the doorbell rang. He peeked out to see the pizza delivery guy. He then opened the door and paid for the pizza. As he was closing the door, he saw Eric and sighed to himself

"Hey H, ordering a late dinner?" Eric asked

"Eric, Eric- I just got home. Is this important?" Horatio asked wearily

"I was just wondering when the last time was that you talked to Lani I really miss her, and I don't know where she is"

"It's been a while Eric, can we talk tomorrow at PD?"

"Sure, H. If you talk to her tell her I miss her" Eric said

"I will Eric" Horatio said closing the door

Kailani had both kids stay super quiet while Eric was at the door. 'You may still love me Eric but you are the one that broke up our marriage because you couldn't handle my baggage' she thought to herself.

Once the door was closed and the pizza was in the kitchen Kailani sighed in relief.

"Has he always sounded like that, like he has a bit of a lisp?" Kalani asked.

"Yes. And he is basically a good guy" Kailani said

"Then why are you two not together anymore?" Isabella asked.

"Because your mama is complicated and he couldn't handle that" Kailani answered

"If you love someone you should be able to handle all of them. It doesn't matter if they are complicated or not" Kalani said

"Wise beyond your years" Horatio said. "Come and eat"

Kailani texted Calleigh. "Hey beautiful, I'm home" she texted

Calleigh looked at her phone and smiled. "Welcome home stranger! We need a day. I missed those babies"

"Smile, you two" she said holding up her phone to take a photo. Isabella leaned into her twin for the picture, both giving their best smiles

She snapped the picture and sent it to Calleigh. Calleigh got it just as Eric pulled up the driveway.

"Eric's here" she texted Kailani

'Damn, I was just going to call her, too' Kailani thought to herself. "Alright, let's get some food" she said to Horatio and the kids. The twins got off the couch and went to the kitchen for some pizza.

While Kailani had been gone Eric and Calleigh had started dating

Eric walked into the house and smiled at Calleigh. "Hey, I'm home"

"Hey" Calleigh said smiling back. "Where were you?" she asked

"I went to Horatio's. He had a large pizza, he doesn't eat that much. Actually, I've never seen him eat"

"Eric, that doesn't mean he doesn't eat" Calleigh said

"Any news from Coop?" he asked

"No, not yet" Calleigh paused, wondering how to broach a sensitive subject. Finally, she said, "Hey Eric--I've been thinking about something...tell me again what happened with you and Kailani. Why did you split up again?"

"Come on Cal, you know why...I cheated on Kailani and she took the kids and left. I don't know where she is..." he said. "Why do you ask?"

"No, I just forgot what you had told me" she said

"Wait a minute...you know something, I know you do"

"Eric I don't know anything. Why do you think I do?" she asked

"Alright maybe you don't. But it's been three months since you asked me about my marriage? So, why are you bringing up the past?"

"If you are going to be with me, you have to be able to face your past and why you cheated. Is it because she was so broken you couldn't handle it?" she asked

"Calleigh..." he said

"If I was that broken would you cheat on me?" she persisted

"Enough Calleigh" he said now pissed

"I'll sleep in the spare room tonight" she said, going to get her charger. Once in the spare bedroom, she changed her password so Eric couldn't get into her phone, then turned down the volume.

"I know it's getting close to time for you to go to bed for work tomorrow, but I've missed you, and I'm sorry I've had to send messages through H" Kailani texted Calleigh

Calleigh had come back in from brushing her teeth and getting her pajamas on and saw the message. "Hey it's okay, just hearing the updates was good, I'm glad you are doing okay and sorry to hear about your mom. She was a great lady"

"Thanks Calleigh, that means a lot to me. How is everyone else?"

"Natalia, Ryan, and Eric are good...hey, can I ask you something?" she asked

"Sure, what's up?"

"Well it's two things. How come you came back? And how would you feel if I were to date Eric?"

She inwardly cringed when she read the question Calleigh asked about Eric. "I came back to face my demons, and that includes Eric. And just be careful, Calleigh, I don't want you to get hurt"

"I think that's very honorable of you, to put your past in your past. Did you ever make captain?"

"I did, I retired as captain...I might open another restaurant here and name it after mama" she said

"Why not just retire? You deserve that"

"I don't want anyone to think I'm taking Horatio's money"

"That's fair. Hey, I'm going to go to bed now. I'm glad you're home" she said putting her phone down

"Night Calleigh. And thanks" she said

Kailani got the kitchen cleaned up and put away the food. Then she got the twins bathed before putting them into light pajamas for the night. They read stories until midnight which was 8p.m. Alaska time.

Kailani got into bed with Horatio at 11 p.m just an hour after he laid down for the night. She put her head on his chest. She usually didn't go to sleep until 10 p.m. after the kids were in bed, but she had been up for over 24 hours. She was very exhausted and fell asleep quickly.

Horatio was up and out around 5 a.m., and his team showed up at PD around 7 a.m.

Calleigh was there at 6:30 a.m. and was in Horatio's office talking to him before Eric came in. "So she made it into town safely, I got a text from her last night" Calleigh said

"Yes she did. I left her asleep curled around my pillow this morning, she was so exhausted" he told her

"I'm glad she's home. She told me she came back to face her demons"

"Yes, she's got a couple of them to face. Her rapist/abuser and Eric. To be honest she should go back to New York and start there. That's where it all started, this is just the last part of it"

"What if when she was in New York after being hospitalized here she did face those demons, but now she's got to face the ones here?"

Horatio thought about what she said carefully. "Calleigh, Calleigh you could be right about that" he said. "I remember that call, that was when she first got here before the kids"

Calleigh nodded not saying much, and looked at her watch. "Well, I should go to the lab and get started, never know when we'll be called out" she said, smiling

Horatio sat back in the chair and thought about everything Kailani had gone through from being childhood to adulthood. She had made it to captain before she retired, before going into business with her mom and he chuckled.

Around 9 a.m. Kailani got up and started a fresh pot of coffee. She looked in the fridge. "Oh good, he got groceries" she chuckled pulling things out to make crepes for her and the kids. She was going to make spaghetti for dinner later, with homemade garlic bread.

As she cooked, the kids started to move around, and smelled breakfast.

They stayed in their routine. Kalani was usually the first up, so he would check on his sister. Then he would go and do all his bathroom things, including brushing his teeth before checking on his sister again and telling her to get out of bed. He finished off his routine by going to the kitchen.

"Buongiorno mamma" (Good morning mama) he said

"Buongiorno Kalani" Kailani said. "Dov'è tua sorella?" (Where is your sister?)

"Essere pigri come al solito" (Being lazy as usual)

Kailani sighed. "Isabella! Vieni a fare colazione prima che faccia freddo!" she called. ("Isabella! Come to breakfast before it gets cold!")

Isabella took after Eric in terms of being slow to get out of bed.

"Ho troppo mamma? sono ancora stanco..." she whined. ("Do I have to mama, I'm still tired...")

"Devi alzarti, abbiamo tanto da fare per prepararti per la scuola quaggiù e non posso averti a letto tutto il giorno essendo pigra, cosa direbbe la nonna?" she called. ("You need to get up, we have to much to do to get you ready for school down here and I can't have you in bed all day being lazy, what would Nonna say?")

"Hai dovuto coinvolgere Nonna in questo...?" (Did you have to bring Nonna into this?") she asked getting up and getting ready for the day

Before long, Isabella was in the kitchen as well sitting at the table and eating.

"What's on the list for today?" Kalani asked.

"Well I'm going to text Horatio and see if I can get his car so we can go do some shopping and errands"

"Aren't you worried about running into Eric?" Isabella asked.

"Mmm- good point. Well we could stay here today and help clean the house instead, since we will be living here"

Both kids groaned as she called Horatio.

He looked at the phone and smiled. "Good Morning, Kai. What's up?" he asked

"I need to run errands, and I don't want to take a cab. Can you bring me the car?" she asked. "I can drop you back off at PD"

"I'll be right there. Let me tell Calleigh where I'm going, she's my second in command"

"See you soon," she said hanging up. "Well, at least you two are dressed," she told the kids. "Horatio will be here soon"

They cleaned up their dishes and got ready to go.

Kailani had their papers from school so she could get them registered there. She was just making sure she had everything when Horatio came in the door

Horatio came in smiling. "I'm back" he said softly

"Come on guys," Kailani said. "Hey, can I have your house key? I'm going to make a copy"

"Of course you can Kai" he said

She smiled and got the kids out to the car. She got them in, then sat in the passenger seat. Horatio drove back to the PD

Once they were there, he got out. She scooted over to the driver's seat, he then closed the door and took her hand. "Drive safe, I'll call you when I'm ready to be picked up. We'll get you a car soon enough" he said

She squeezed his hand gently and smiled at him. "See you later, H"

He nodded and went into PD. Kailani drove away

As she turned the corner, Eric came out of PD and saw Horatio's car turning the corner. He thought he saw Kailani, but... 'Nah, it can't be her' he thought to himself

After a short drive, Kailani pulled up to the school that was close to Horatio's house, and got the kids registered. While she was there she picked up the school lists, then took the kids shopping.

Meanwhile, back at PD, Eric pulled his kit out of the Hummer and went back inside. He saw Horatio. "Hey H, can I ask you something?" he asked

"Go ahead, Eric" He said fiddling with his sunglasses

"Is Lani back? If she's not back, then your car may have been stolen"

"I'm not at liberty to say Eric" Horatio said. He hated being in the middle, but he knew Kailani would show herself to Eric in her own time.

The thought of her being back in Florida weighted on Eric's mind all day. He couldn't shake the thought of seeing her, wondering if it was her in Horatio's car.

Later, Eric and Calleigh were dispatched to a new crime scene. Eric just couldn't get it together long enough to focus on the task at hand.

Calleigh had collected the evidence, and she touched his shoulder. "Are you okay? You look lost in thought, do you need to go back to PD?"

"Yeah, I think I do...I think Horatio is withholding information about my ex-wife"

"Oh? What makes you think that?" Calleigh asked innocently

"I asked about her, and he told me he wasn't at liberty to say anything" Eric explained.

"Eric...do you think maybe- and this is a big maybe-, IF she was back, she would want to tell you herself?"

"You know something, don't you? Give me your phone" he said

"I don't know anything and no" Calleigh told him

"Don't lie to me Calleigh, don't you dare lie! You know more than you're letting on!! Tell me damn it!!" he insisted

She gathered her kit and walked out of the house. "I'll have Horatio come get you," she said. "I'll meet you back at PD"

She left. Eric was so upset that he called Kailani's phone.

Kailani heard the call come in, but let it go to voicemail. "Hey this is Kailani, leave a message after the beep" her recording said.

"Lani, it's Eric, are you back in Florida? Did I see you in Horatio's car earlier? Call me back. How are the twins? When can I see them?" Eric asked; then he hung up

Kailani heard the message. She sighed deeply as they pulled into the parking lot of Target. She parked the car, and turned to the kids. "Do you guys want to see Eric? I'll be there for you the entire time, you won't have to go with him at all"

"Do we have to? I don't want to see him right now" Isabella said

"No you don't have to...but just last night you were asking to see him" Kailani pointed out

"If it's going to stress you out, Mom we don't have to see him" Kalani said

"Do you mind if I call him back before we go in, then?" Kailani asked

"Can it wait?" the kids asked in unison.

"Sure it can. Let's go" she said, turning the car off. She waited for them to get out. Kailani was thrilled they had asked her to hold off on the phone call. She took a picture of Horatio's license plate so she could remember it, and locked the car up. Then they went into the store for clothes and school supplies.

A couple of hours with bags and drinks later, they went back to Horatio's and started to get things ready for school.

Kailani started dinner and turned on some music and got into her groove as she made spaghetti and bread. The kids were having fun dancing and being silly as she cooked

Her phone started to ring again, and she saw the name and sighed. "I'm going to answer this" she the kids

They nodded and stopped, listening to her.

"Hello?" she said.

"Lani? It's Eric"

"Yeah, I know who it is, your name popped up on my phone. What can I do for you?"

"Are you back in Florida? Can I come over to see the kids?"

"Yes I am, and no you can't. They aren't ready to see you right now, Eric. Horatio couldn't tell you because I wanted to tell you myself," she explained I was going to show up to PD later when I come to pick up Horatio"

"You have to let me see the kids, I need to see how big they've gotten"

"They aren't ready to see you Eric. When they are ready to see you, I'll let you see them. And when school starts you aren't to pick them up, only Horatio and I"

"And your mom" Eric said not knowing Isabella had died.

"Yeah...she died Eric, she died in May...thanks for bringing up the one person I wish was here right now" she said. She threw her phone across the room; it hit the wall hard breaking into several pieces

"Lani..." he said as the call was abruptly ended. Eric then called Horatio

"Eric, Eric what's wrong?" Horatio asked

"It's Lani-, I called her wanting to talk to her, then nothing. The call cut off. I'm worried she'll do something stupid"

"I can't get home, she has my car" Horatio said, now worried

Calleigh was getting ready to leave for the day and stopped by to see Horatio. "Hey, is everything okay?"

"Can you go check on Kai?" Horatio asked her. "Eric is afraid she'll do something dangerous"

At Horatio's, the kids stayed quiet and held on to each other. They had never seen her their mother this upset before. They wanted to ask what was wrong, but neither was willing to risk her wrath.

Back at PD, Calleigh listened with concern. "Sure I can do that, Horatio. Do you want me to take you home?"

"I still have work to do here..." he said. "Hey, Mr. Wolfe"

"Yeah H?" Ryan said

"Can you handle this and call me when it's done I have to get home to check on Kailani"

"She's back?" Ryan asked, a little shocked. "Yeah, sure H"

"Thank you" Horatio said clocking out, and caught a ride home with Calleigh.

Kailani had been curled up in the corner, hugging herself and crying. She missed her mom so much.

Horatio arrived and knocked on the door.

Isabella went to the door. "Who is it please?"

"Bella, it's Horatio" he said "Can you open the door for me?"

Bella unlocked the door and opened it slowly, to see him knelt down on the porch. "Mama's in the corner crying" she said letting him in. "She threw her phone and it broke"

Calleigh took the kids to their room. "My name is Calleigh" she told them. I'm a friend of your mom's. You two okay?"

"Our dad called her, he mentioned Nonna and mama went crazy" Kalani said.

"Who's your dad?" she asked.

"Eric" they said.

Calleigh barely flinched when they told her that. "Oh my goodness- you guys were just little ones when your mama left with you guys. Look how tall you are now!"

Horatio went over to her. "Kai...Kai, honey it's Horatio" he said softly

She looked up. "I broke my phone...I scared the kids...dinner is ruined..." she cried

He pulled her into his arms gently and sat with her. "It's alright, we'll get you another phone. And we'll order out tonight" he told her

Eric, meanwhile, was on his way to Horatio's. He arrived and parked the car, and walked right in. "H?" he said. When he went into the kitchen he saw Kailani had been making dinner, then he saw her in the corner. "Lani"

Kailani looked up at Eric and scrambled to get out of Horatio's grip. She was going to strangle him.

Eric backed up. He had never seen her like this towards anyone, including him. He went to find Calleigh.

Horatio held Kailani close to him and talked to her in Italian. "Non vale la galera, non vale la rabbia e il dolore che provi in questo momento" ("He's not worth the jail time, he's not worth the anger and hurt you feel right now")

Kailani nodded, not saying anything. She knew he was right. She took the time to calm down in his arms.

Calleigh was playing Uno with the kids, when Eric came into their room.

The kids saw him and froze, unsure of what to do.

"Hey Cal" he said. "Hey Isabella, Kalani"

The twins stayed quiet

"Isabella, Kalani, this is Eric...this is your dad" Calleigh said introducing them

Both kids looked up at Eric unsure of what to say. They barely recognized the man standing before them.

He stayed near the door and knelt down. "Hey, you guys have gotten so tall! I know you don't remember me, but I remember you guys. I have missed you both so much" he told them

"Sei un estraneo, mamma non vorrebbe che tu parlassi con noi" ("You're a stranger, mama wouldn't want you talking to us") Kalani said

"Well you have perfected your Italian, you probably lost all the Spanish you knew" he said with a little acid in his voice.

"We never knew Spanish" Isabella said taking his tone

Calleigh sat there watching father and daughter arguing. She found it amusing.

"Yes you did, when you were two" Eric told Isabella

"That was a while ago, I don't remember any Spanish! I know English and Italian!" Isabella spat "You upset mama by talking about Nonna!"

Kalani sat down and let his sister fight with their dad.

"Well I'm sorry!" Eric said. "How was I supposed to know Isabella died? No one tells me anything!"

"That's because mama didn't want you to know! I don't want you as my dad, I don't want your last name!! Get out!!!" Isabella told him

Kailani looked up at Horatio and kissed him softly. "Thank you. Go- rescue Eric before Isabella chews him up and spits him out" she said chuckling a bit. She stood up and held her hands out to Horatio to help him up.

He placed a kiss on her forehead, and went to the bedroom to rescue Eric. "Eric, Eric- I see you have met your mini me" he said smiling, watching Isabella stand her ground.

"No way she gets this from me, this has to be Lani" Eric said looking over at Horatio.

"Non osare distogliere lo sguardo da me! Guardami quando ti parlo!!!" ("Don't you dare take your eyes off of me! Look at me when I'm talking to you!!!") Isabella said stomping her foot at him.

He looked at her a little surprised. "See? That's not me, H, that's Lani"

"Isabella, non essere scortese ora. Devi delle scuse a Eric per essere stato scortese" ("Isabella, don't be rude now. You owe Eric an apology for being rude") Kailani scolded her daughter.

"Ma mamma, stava inventando bugie sul fatto che conoscessimo lo spagnolo, gli ho detto che non lo sapevamo, non lo voglio come mio padre, voglio Horatio come mio padre" ("But mama, he was making up lies about us knowing Spanish, I told him we didn't know it, I don't want him as my dad, I want Horatio as my dad") Isabella told her

"Isabella, non sta mentendo, tu sapevi lo spagnolo, ma dato che siamo stati via per così tanto tempo, non ti ricordi niente, forse faremo un paio di parole come sì e uno, alcune delle parole che sono in Lo spagnolo può essere tradotto in italiano. Io e la nonna parlavamo molto italiano intorno a voi due, quindi avete perso completamente la conoscenza del vostro spagnolo" ("Isabella, he's not lying, you did know Spanish, but since we were gone for so long, you don't remember any of it-, well maybe a couple of words like yes and uno, some of the words that are in Spanish can translate to Italian. Grandma and I spoke a lot of Italian around you two, so you lost all knowledge of your Spanish") she explained gently. "Sei sicuro di non volerlo conoscere?" (Are you sure you don't want to get to know him?")

"Can I think about it?" Isabella asked

"Of course you can. Kalani?"

"I don't know mama...we've not been around him for so long...Horatio was the last person we saw, we know him" he said softly. "But if we decide to do this, it has to be on our terms"

"Oh? Like what?" Kailani asked.

"Only with you and Horatio around, maybe a half an hour or an hour at a time" Kalani said. "We start with hello, and end with good-bye. No hugs, no touching"

"That sounds fair" Kailani said. "What do you think Eric?"

"Oh, I can speak now?" he asked sarcastically.

She furrowed her eyebrows, a habit she had gotten from her dad. "Yes, you can" she said. Kailani could feel her anger rising.

"I don't like it," he said. "I want to be able to hug them, hold them"

"If you don't like it you don't have to do it, it won't hurt our feelings any" Kalani told him.

"Yeah, we never asked to be moved out of state," Isabella said. "And we certainly never asked to come back to Florida. And we sure as heck didn't come back for you!"

Kailani noticed her daughter had inherited her stubbornness and her smart mouth. She was proud of her daughter for tapping into her Italian side and using it to defend herself.

Eric was taken aback. He felt disrespected by them.

"I'm going to fight for custody, Kailani," he said. "I will get what I want"

"Eric, I didn't make them say this. This is how they feel, they are 8 years old. Why would you rip them away from me?" she asked. "They said they wanted to set the terms of you getting to know them and you didn't like it so now they don't want to talk to you. I thought it was very fair"

Horatio held out his hands to Calleigh and helped her up.

"Thank you" Calleigh said. She looked at Eric. "It seems to me you aren't used to an eight year old backtalking you. They are old enough to make their own decisions. Kailani was in the corner crying when we came in-, so tell me how she had time to come to the room and tell them what to say?"

Eric sighed. He didn't like being ganged up on like this. "Fine. Alright" he said. "Isabella, is it too late to go along with your terms and conditions?"

"I don't know, you'll have to ask Kani, he made it up. Not me" Isabella said

"What do you think, mama?" Kalani asked.

"I don't think it's too late for him to accept it" she said. "BUT, it has to be their way or no way"

Eric nodded. "Okay, I guess that's fair" he said

"More than fair" Kalani said

Kailani started to clean up her smashed phone and put everything away for the next day.

"What were you making?" Eric asked her.

"Spaghetti" she answered, not really looking at him.

"Can you and I talk for a minute?"

"We are talking" she said turning around

He sighed. 'Stubborn woman' he thought to himself. "Where did you go and why did you come back?" he asked

"Where I went is none of your business. We're not married anymore, I don't have to tell you that. Why I came back, is to face you. And I needed to come back to the first place I was raped and abused, to see if I could handle it" she said. "If I want to make a future with Horatio, I have to do this. You couldn't handle me at my worst, you don't deserve me now, at my best"

He started to argue he had a right to know because of the kids, but decided to keep his mouth shut.

"You cheated on me Eric, you destroyed our marriage, I didn't!" she continued angrily. "I NEVER stepped outside of our marriage, not once! But you did it like it wasn't a big deal. You broke me Eric!! I hate you so much for breaking me like that. I had a terrible time trying to put myself back together. Do you know how hard it is to pick up the pieces of your life after being cheated on again?! You KNEW my past! You KNEW I had been cheated on and abused! So many times I waited for the slap, to be put into the hospital by you, but it never came. And I thought you were different, I thought you were the one to heal me...it turns out, you're no different than my past. So no...I personally want nothing to do with you. But for the sake of our kids, I will be civil to you" she said, finally taking a breath. She walked past him to Horatio's room and closed the door.

The kids were in shock. They had never heard anything about their mother's past, no one in the house had ever talked about it.

"Cal, I'll see you at home. Horatio I'll see you at PD in the morning" Eric said quietly, after a minute of silence. Then he left

"Are you two okay?" Calleigh asked the twins softly.

"She doesn't talk about her past," Kalani said. "This is the first we are hearing of it"

"Why would anyone want to hurt mama?" Isabella asked. "She's such a good mom"

Horatio knelt down to them. "There are bad people in the world that like to hurt people for fun. Your mom went through a lot of bad before she found Eric" he said. "Eric wasn't thinking when he hurt your mom like that"

"Horatio?" Kalani said

"Yes, Kalani?" Horatio answered.

"I don't think I want to see Eric anymore" Kalani said

"Why not?" Calleigh asked

Kalani sighed. "Because him being here isn't good for mom...she's protected us all this time and now we wanted him in our lives so much we made her cry" he said

"No, no that wasn't your fault" Horatio told him. "That was years of pain coming to the surface. Your mom stuffs her feelings until she can't anymore, and then they all come out at once. That's why she broke the phone, and went off on Eric. This was the release she needed"

"I think I'll go" Calleigh said. "This is something for you guys to work through"

"Calleigh will you come see us again?" Isabella asked.

"Of course I will!" she said. "You guys go give your mom a big hug, okay? Now goodnight"

Horatio walked Calleigh to the door. "Thank you for staying and distracting the kids" he said

"You're welcome Horatio. They are such sweet kids," Calleigh said. "She is raising them well. See you tomorrow"

"Yes, yes you will" he said. "Although I may be late"

She nodded. "See you then Horatio" she said turning to leave to go home

The kids went to their mom and gave her a big hug. "It's okay mama" Kalani said rubbing her back

Isabella didn't say anything for a while and wiped her mom's tears. "Mom, you can always talk to us" she said

"I know, but my past isn't your concern. And it isn't your job to care for me, it's mine to care for you" Kailani said

Horatio had shut and locked the door, before coming to stand in the doorway of the bedroom. There was so much love in his eyes for Kailani, so much progress had been made here tonight.

"Alright, you two go get ready for dinner," she said. "We're going to order out"

"Not pizza again" Kalani said

She laughed. "Alright, not pizza..an Italian place, or burgers?" Kailani asked.

"Burgers!!!" the twins said in unison. Burgers were a treat for them, since they always ate homemade Italian food.

She smiled as the kids left the room. Horatio went in and hugged her tight. "That was amazing Kai, you got over one hurdle" he said softly.

"Yes, just one more" she told him. "I'm going to shower, do you think you can watch the kids? I don't want anything, I can have the pizza" she said

"Of course" Horatio said. "Are you feeling alright?"

"Honestly?" she asked.

He nodded holding her around the waist.

"No, I'm not" she told him. "I need time for myself to really get over mama's death, to bring myself back to me. I haven't been able to do that"

"I can take tomorrow off and take the kids somewhere" he offered

It wasn't that she didn't trust Horatio with the kids, but she didn't trust herself without them. School was a different story.

"Take tomorrow off, but please don't leave with the kids" Kailani told him.

He hugged her again. "Alright Kai, I won't take them" he promised her

"I love you, Horatio" she said kissing his lips softly. Then she went to get stuff to get into the shower with. She closed the door between the bathroom and their room.

As the door shut, Horatio could see the pain on her face. He remembered a time where she had once tried to commit suicide; he hoped it wouldn't come to that again. The kids couldn't lose her. Once the kids went to school what was to stop her from trying again? He would give her the day-but if she was still showing anything that look liked suicidal ideation, or anything that looked like the behavior that led up to her previous attempt, he would take her to get help. Right away.

Alone in the bathroom, Kailani let the tears flow again. She was having a very hard time with her mother's death. It had reminded her of when her dad died, and brought back all the terrible feelings. That had taken her a long time to get over. 'I don't know if I can do this again...' she thought to herself. Kailani heard the kids tell Horatio their orders then Isabella asking about her.

"Your mom needs one day to herself, to figure it all out," she could hear Horatio tell Isabella. "Her life hasn't been the easiest, but she still loves you guys. Never forget that"

Isabella had always been the bold one with asking questions, but she wasn't bold enough to ask if they had to get to know Eric quickly.

Kalani had always been the quiet one, but he asked the question his sister couldn't. "Is mama going to die?" he asked

Back inside the bathroom, Kailani sat there trying to pull herself together, it was harder, now that she didn't have her parents to turn to. "I need you daddy, mommy" she whispered.

"E ke kaikamahine, ua ʻoi aku kou ikaika ma mua o kou ʻike, ma mua o kou ikaika. Ua ʻeha paha ʻo Mama e make ana, akā aia ʻo ia i loko o kou puʻuwai. E helu i kāu hoa. E kōkua ʻo ia iā ʻoe, e loaʻa mau ana ʻo māua ʻo mama i loko o kou puʻuwai a mau loa aku, loaʻa iā ʻoe kēia" ("Baby girl, you are stronger than you know, than you'll ever be. Mama dying may have hurt, but she is always in your heart. Count on your partner. Let him help you, you will always have mama and I in your hearts forever, you got this") she heard her dad say.

"Pāpā? Pāpā makemake au iā ʻoe. Pono au iā mama. ʻAʻole hiki iaʻu ke hana iaʻu iho. Pono wau iā 'oe. ʻAʻole maopopo iaʻu inā hiki iaʻu ke hana i kēia (Daddy? Daddy I need you. I need mama too. I can't do this on my own. I need you. I don't know if I can do this") she said


Her father's voice spoke again."Hiki iā ʻoe e kuʻu aliʻi wahine liʻiliʻi, hiki iā ʻoe ke hana i kēia, e noho mau ʻo mama a me papa i loko o kou puʻuwai. Aloha nui au iā ʻoe Kailani, hilinaʻi iā Horatio. E hoʻomanaʻo ua ʻoi aku kou ikaika ma mua o kou manaʻo, e kuʻu kaikamahine uʻi" (You can my little princess, you can do this, mama and papa will always be in your heart. I love you so much Kailani, rely on Horatio. Remember you are stronger than you think you are, my beautiful girl"

"Aloha au iā ʻoe e papa, aloha au iā ʻoe. E haʻi aku iā papa i koʻu aloha a aloha hoʻi iā ia" ("I love you too daddy, I miss you. Tell papa I miss and love him too")

Kailani felt her father's touch on her face, and cried again. If she had her way, she would spend the night in the bathroom.

The kids heard her through the door, and looked at Horatio. "What language is that?" Kalani said

"Hawaiian," he said. "Your mom is Italian and Hawaiian, you have a little Hawaiian in you too"

The next morning Kailani was still in bed and Horatio ordered out breakfast. The kids got up and stayed in their routine.

"Good morning," Horatio said as they came into the kitchen. "I ordered pancakes, waffles, bacon, sausage and eggs"

"Morning" they both said sitting down.

"How's mama?" Isabella asked.

"Still sleeping, when I checked on her a couple of minutes ago" Horatio said

Isabella nodded. "That's good" she said. "I'm glad you're here, you're a good friend to Mama"

Horatio smiled. "Me too Bella, me too" he said. "What would you guys like to do today?"

"Can we go to the park?" Kalani asked.

"I'm sorry buddy, but your mom asked me not to take you out today" he said. "I have to respect her wishes"

"But...it's so pretty outside" Kalani said

"I know, maybe we can play in the backyard?" Horatio suggested. "We can leave the door open"

Kalani was disappointed but nodded. "Okay..." he said.

"Hey Kani, it's okay" Isabella said. "We did pick up something from Target with Mama remember?"

"Oh..yeah" he said.

"How about for lunch I make you guys some grilled cheese sandwiches?" Horatio suggested

"Ooh yes please!!" Isabella said excitedly.

Kailani groaned and woke up. She looked at the time, then freaked out. "Oh no! I overslept!! Kids! If you're not up already please get up" she said getting out of bed, running to the bathroom. She then ran to the kitchen, and saw the twins and Horatio. "H, what are you doing here? You're supposed to be at work..."

"I took today off to stay home with you and the kids" he said. "Remember?"

"Oh..right," she said. "I forgot"

"Are you okay mama?" Kalani askeed. "You look upset"

"No, I'm not upset," Kailani said. "I'm feeling better now. I feel..at peace"

"We were just finishing up breakfast," Horatio told her. "Would you like to go get a phone today?"

"Yes, I would like that a lot thank you," she said. "And maybe another car?"

Horatio smiled. "Sure, let's see what we can do" he said softly. "Coffee?"

"Yes please," she said. "I would like that"

Horatio poured her a cup, just the way she liked it and handed it to her. "What's on the menu for dinner tonight?"

"Well if it doesn't take forever, I would like to attempt spaghetti and bread" she told him. "I was going to make it last night"

"That sounds good" he told her smiling. "I'm glad you got some sleep"

"Me too. Thanks Horatio, for everything" Kailani said kissing him softly

He kissed her back. "You're welcome Kai," he told her handing her some of the leftover food.

She took it and picked at it before eating it. Kailani realized that she no longer had her mom's voicemails on her phone.

"I can't get a new phone" she told Horatio softly.

He went and knelt by her. "Kai, Kai why can't you get a new phone?" he asked.

"Because the first person I'll want to call is mama, to give her my new number," she told him. "But I won't be able to. I just want to hear her voice again, tell her I love her..to hold her"

"Alright, we'll skip the phone," he said, not realizing having a phone would make her think and miss her mom more. "How about going to take the kids out to the park?"

"You can take them, I'm not in the mood to go out" she said

"Are you sure?" Horatio asked. "You're sure you're okay with me taking them out?"

"I trust you, H," Kailani said. "I trust you with my kids. I'm going to lay down for a bit before starting dinner" she said

The kids put their dishes away and went to get ready to go. Kalani couldn't help but see how sad his mom was, and he ran to her to hug her. "Ti voglio bene mamma" ("I love you mama")

"Ti amo anch'io Kalani" Kailani said ("I love you too Kalani")

Kailani went to lay back down. She was very grateful to Horatio for giving her the day. She laid down and went back to sleep

A couple of hours later she got up and started working on dinner. When Horatio and the kids walked back in, the house smelled amazing.

The bread was almost done, along with the spaghetti. Horatio smiled as he closed the door behind the kids.

"It smells so good in here!" Isabella said. "Mmm! Mama's home made bread! Yum!!"

"Go wash up you two," she said. "Dinner is ready"

Horatio had a bouquet of flowers for her and a new phone. He had also arranged it so she could always have her mom's last message to her on her phone. "Kai" he said. "Kai, I got you flowers and a new phone"

"H..." she said. "Why? I told you not to worry about the phone"

"Kai," he said. "Kai, push pound 1-5. That has a special surprise for you"

She pushed the buttons. "Cara Kailani, mamma qui. Non ti ho mai inviato questo messaggio, volevo ma non l'ho fatto. Ti amo moltissimo. Sei così forte, appoggiati a Horatio. Vivi una buona vita e non dimenticarmi mai. Non dimenticare mai le lezioni che ti ho insegnato. I bambini stanno crescendo magnificamente grazie a te. Prenditi cura di te e di loro. Sarò sempre nel tuo cuore per sempre, ti amo... mamma" ("Dear Kailani, mama here. I never sent this message to you. I meant to but didn't. I love you very much. You are so strong. Lean on Horatio. Live a good life and never forget me. Never forget the lessons I taught you. The kids are growing up beautifully because of you. Take care of yourself and them. I'll always be in your heart forever, I love you...mama")

Kailani sunk to her knees crying. She missed hearing her mom's voice and now she could hear it anytime she wanted. "Thank you Horatio," she said. "I needed to hear her voice again. Now I can hear it over and over"

"You're welcome," he said. "I know how much you miss her, we all do" He then picked her up and held her close to him.

She held onto him for a few minutes. "You can put me down now" Kailani said softly.

Horatio gently put her down and kissed her cheek softly. "I'm always going to be here for you Kai," he said. "I'm not leaving you"

She wiped her eyes and smiled at him. "Thank you Horatio," she said. "I hope I can do you justice as a good wife one day"

He smiled at her. "I know you will," Horatio said. "Kai, I know you will"

Kailani went back to her cooking and got dinner on the table before long. She set an extra plate at the table for her mom. "For you mama" she said softly

Horatio smiled watching her, he then sat at the table.

"H, I don't do this often but can we say a small prayer for mama?" she asked

"Kai," he said. "Kai, of course we can"

She bowed her head. "Dear mama, I ask that you bless this food and watch over us," she said wiping her eyes. "Thank you for being my mom. The kids' Nonna. We miss you so much. Rest in peace mama...Amen"

After dinner the kids got their baths. The four of them watched TV for an hour, before Kai and Horatio put the kids to bed.

Once they were tucked in, Kailani went back to the bedroom. She then went to the bathroom to change clothes. She still wasn't comfortable with changing in front of Horatio. It was a trigger from her first relationship, reminding her of the harsh way her boyfriend would criticize her appearance every time he saw her undressed

She came back to the bedroom, then snuggled in bed with Horatio. "You make me so happy," she said. "I'm sorry it took me so long to be with you"

He held her close and kissed the top of her head. "It's alright Kai," he said. "We're together now and I'll never step out on you"

Kailani had her head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat. "I love you Horatio Caine," she said. "Always and forever"

"I," he said. "I love you too Kailani Brown, now and forever"

She fell asleep on him with a smile on her face.

He held her close and fell asleep as well.

The next morning he left her a note and headed out to work to talk to Eric about asking Kailani to marry him.

Callie and Eric both showed up at the same time to PD.

"Good morning Horatio," Calleigh said. "How was your day off yesterday?"

"Good Morning ma'am," Horatio said. "It went well enough"

She smiled and walked into the lab.

"Morning H," Eric said. "How is Lani?"

"She's fine, Eric," he said. "Eric, do you mind if I ask your permission on something?"

"Sure H," Eric said, already had a feeling what it would be. "What is it?"

"Eric," Horatio said. "Listen, Eric, can I talk to you in private for a minute? I need to ask you something; it's personal"

He led him to the corner of the lab. "Eric," Horatio said. "Eric, would you mind if I asked Kai to marry me?"

"I don't know H.." Eric said softly. "Are you sure this is what she wants?"

"I am," he told him. "She told me last night she loved me, and I have always secretly loved her. But now she knows how I feel for her"

Eric sighed, he wasn't thrilled with this idea. "Yeah..sure H," Eric said. "If that's what she wants, I'm good with it"

How did he know Eric wasn't okay with it? Was it in his body language, or his tone of voice? He knew it hurt Eric to give Horatio his blessing to marry his ex-wife.

"H," he said. "What about my kids?"

"It is a decision Kai and I are going to let them make," Horatio told him. "They have the power to decide what they want"

Horatio knew it hurt Eric to give him his blessing to marry Kailani. He could see it in the expression on his face, in the way his tone of voice changed.

Eric walked away. He was having a hard time accepting what Horatio asked of him.

Horatio got a call, and left. He arrived at the scene first, then called the rest of the team in.

"Are you okay?" Ryan asked Eric, back at PD

"No," he said. "I'm not okay, Ryan"

Ryan looked over at him. "What's wrong, man?" he asked.

"Horatio just asked if he could marry my ex-wife," Eric said "That means he's probably going to end up wanting to adopt MY kids"

"Look man," Ryan said. "I'm sorry that this is difficult for you. But, the kids, and your ex-wife have that choice"

"Shut up, Wolfe" Eric said, sulking out of PD and heading to the scene

Ryan sighed as Calleigh came by. "Hey Calleigh," he said. "Can I catch a ride with you?"

"Yes," Calleigh said. "But I thought you were going with Eric"

"I was supposed to," Ryan said. "He told me to shut up, and left me here"

They walked out to Callie's Hummer. She drove to the crime scene

Back at home, Kailani had a feeling about Horatio. She got the kids up and took a cab to where he was.

Both Calleigh and the cab showed up at the crime scene at the same time.

Kailani got the kids out and paid the cab driver. She saw Eric confronting Horatio, and ran and stood between them. "Eric, don't do this" she said.

Callie saw what was happening. She kept the kids back and kept them entertained.

Ryan went over to Horatio and Eric. He found Kailani in the middle of it all.

"Get out of the way, Lani," Eric said. "I don't want to hit you"

"Then hit me, Eric," she said. "I won't let you hit him"

Kalani saw what was going on and charged Eric, knocking him down. "Don't you dare hit my mom!!" he said

Eric was taken by surprise by this. "Kalani," he said. "What are you doing?"

"Protecting my mom!" Kalani said. "She protects me! DON'T YOU DARE lay your hands on her!!" he snapped at Eric.

"Kalani," Kai said. "Are you okay?"

"Yes mama," he said. "You protect us all the time, I just thought I could do the same for you" He then turned and looked at Eric. "I don't want you as my dad, I want Horatio as my dad"

Eric looked up at Kailani. She didn't flinch, she held his gaze.

Finally Eric stood up and walked into the house

Kailani turned around and hugged Horatio. "Are you okay?"

"Kai," he said softly. "Kai, I'm fine. How are you?"

"Shaken a bit, but fine. Kani?"

"I'm good mama," Kalani said. "Can we go home?"

"I'll drive you," Horatio said. "Go get your sister"

Kalani nodded, and went to see Calleigh and his sister. "Horatio is going to take us home" he said to them.

"You were very brave to protect your mom like that," Calleigh told him. "Do you really not want Eric as your dad?"

"He hasn't showed me that he can be a dad to us," Kalani said. "He promised to get along with mama, but I really thought he was going to hit her..."

Calleigh looked at him. "Kalani," she said softly. "Eric wouldn't dare to hurt your mom. I'm here, and so are Ryan, and Horatio. If he tried, Ryan or Horatio would arrest him and take him in"

He nodded. "Mama's always saying he is a good guy," he said. "What I saw today wasn't what a good guy would do"

Kailani heard what he was saying and picked him up. "Oh baby," she said cuddling him. "You are such a good boy. You will grow up to be a great man, I'm honored to have you as my son"

He hugged her tightly. "Thank you mama," Kalani said. "I'm glad you're my mama too. I couldn't ask for a better one"

Isabella thought Kalani sucked up too their mom a little to much at times. But, today was not one of those times- she knew he was being genuine towards her.

Horatio took Kailani to his Hummer before gathering up the kids and taking them home.

The kids and Kailani were super quiet on the way home. "Kai," Horatio said. "Kai are you okay?"

"Yes, I'm fine" she said smiling and taking his hand.

He pulled into the drive and kissed her hand softly. "I love you" he said. "I'll be home shortly"

Kailani nodded and smiled. "Okay," she said. "I love you H, see you soon"

"Yes," Horatio said. "See you soon" Then he drove away back to PD

Kailani watched him until he was out of sight, then went to unlock the door so she and the kids could go inside.

Kalani went straight to his room to calm down. He was still upset as a result of what he had seen earlier with Eric, and from what he had done.

Isabella stayed with her mom. "Mama, what are we going to make for dinner?"

Kailani hadn't even thought about dinner until Isabella said something. 'Did she say..we?' she thought to herself, surprised.

"Bella, honey," she asked. "Did you just say we?"

"Yes mama," she said. "I did say we, I want to learn"

She smiled and picked up her daughter to hug her. "Yes, I would be happy to teach you. I know you aren't going to learn this all in a day" she told her softly. "But we can get started today. Thank you for wanting to learn!"

"You're welcome" Bella said getting down. She pulled her hair back, and washed her hands as well

Kailani was in the kitchen getting the measuring spoons and cups out to walk Bella through the process, just like her mom had done with her. She was so happy to pass her knowledge on to her daughter.

Isabella wasn't the type to get her hands dirty, but she decided to help her mom in the kitchen. She knew it would distract her from what had happened earlier in the day with Eric and Horatio. The girls turned on some music and it made making dinner fun.

Kalani was still in a mood. After punching his bed and pillow, he decided to play a video game. He decided to play Kingdom Hearts, the one game he knew his mom didn't mind him playing.

Dinner was coming along nicely. Kailani showed Isabella how to make homemade marinara sauce and bread.

"Mama, why do we have to hand make things? Why can't we just buy the stuff from the store?" Isabella asked.

"We make things ourselves because it tastes better homemade," she said. "And store bought stuff, is often filled with things that aren't good for you, so it's better to make homemade"

"But it takes so long, mama" Isabella complained

"I know it does," Kailani said. "But I've always enjoyed cooking from scratch. I feel everything tastes better that way. Tell you what, when we go shopping again, I'll let you get a small container of ravioli. You can make it, and then you tell me the difference between the kind from the store and homemade"

"Deal!" Isabella said, her eyes lighting up. "And if I like the kind from the store better?"

"Well then, I'm going to say too bad," Kailani told her. "Because that will be a one-and-done thing"

"You never let us have anything like that!" Isabella said. "We never go out to eat either!"

Kailani took a deep breath to calm down before talking again. "Bella, what do you think the pizza we've ordered has been?" she asked. "What do you think the burgers and fries, even the breakfast Horatio called out for, have been?"

Isabella sat there quietly listening, she knew her mom had a point.

"You say I don't let you have anything, but what do you think all the take out is?" Kailani asked. "I could spend $20 on buying us takeout pizza or taking you guys to McD's. But if I save it instead by cooking at home, that's $20 we can spend on something fun, like going to the zoo or going shopping for something you want"

Isabella sighed. "Yes mama," she said. "I see what you are saying- wait, we can go to the zoo?"

"Well yes," she said "Sometime soon we can go, "I need to get a car first, I still take Horatio to and from work when I need the car for the day to do shopping for the house"

Bella nodded. "Now what do we do mama?" she asked, looking at the food.

"Well now, I'll drop these in the boiling water," Kailani said. "Go get Kani, and you two wash up. Dinner will be ready soon"

"Right!" Isabella said leaving the kitchen and headed to see her brother. "Hey," she told him. "Mama says dinner is almost ready"

He shrugged. "Alright," he said. "I don't care, I'm not hungry"

Isabella went to wash up. "Come on Kani," she said again. "Dinner's almost ready!"

"I heard you the first time!" he snapped at her. "I said I wasn't hungry!! Leave me alone Isabella!!"

Kailani heard the arguing and went to their room. "What is going on in here?" she asked

"I'm not hungry mama," Kani said. "Tell her to leave me alone"

"Bella, please go to the table," Kailani told her. Isabella complied, leaving the room and going to the table.

Then Kai turned to her son. "Kalani, what is going on here? Are you having a day?"

"She was being a pain mama! I'm not hungry!" he snapped at her. "Just leave me alone"

"Alright," Kailani said. "Because you want to act this way, I'm taking your game console and controllers. You are to stay in your room until you can be nice"

"No! That's not fair mama!" he said. "Please don't take it...please!"

Kailani took the console and controllers; she put them on the shelf in the the closet. Then she went back into the kitchen to finish dinner.

Kalani destroyed the bedroom screaming and crying. Kailani sighed deeply, listening to the ruckus from Kani's room. She didn't take the consoles away often, but today, Kalani wasn't being nice to anyone.

As Kai and Isabella continued cooking, Horatio pulled into the driveway and shut off the car. He came inside, putting his keys on the hook.

Kailani looked over. "Hey babe" she said. "Kalani is in his room, his electronics are taken away. He may need you to listen to him"

Horatio nodded, then kissed her softly before going to Kalani's room. He knocked on his door

"Go away mom!!" Kalani yelled not knowing it was Horatio

Horatio opened the door and poked his head in. "May I come in?" he asked.

"Yes" Kalani said feeling a bit better.

Horatio went in and closed the door. "Kalani," he said. "Kalani, is there anything you would like to talk about?"

"Yes, I would like to talk about today" he said

Horatio leaned forward so they could talk about what happened that morning between him and Eric. Kalani had a whole range of emotions he needed to talk through with Horatio.

"Alright, what would you like to talk about?" Horatio asked Kalani

"How did mom know that you were in trouble?" Kalani asked. "It was weird"

"Your mom- has super powers," Horatio said. "She knows when her friends are in trouble, and when her children are too. It's a gift that not all mothers get, but your mom was special enough to get that power"

"Mom's powers didn't work when I was mad" Kalani pointed out.

"Oh, but they did," Horatio countered. "She knew you were very upset and angry about what happened, so she let you come in here and get your anger out"

"But she took away my console," Kalani said. "She said I was being mean"

"Were you?" Horatio asked. "Were you being mean? To Bella? To your mom?"

Kalani thought about his behavior towards them. "I guess I was," he admitted. "I was just so angry; I thought Eric was going to hurt mom- I may not understand why she took us to see you, or how she knew where you were at exactly. But when I saw her defending you..." Kalani trailed off

Horatio sat patiently and waited for him to continue. Feelings were difficult for kids, especially boys.

"For a long time, Isabella and I didn't understand why we didn't have a dad. We asked for him for a whole year, but mom never brought us back here," Kalani finally said. "She always told us Alaska was going to be our home, that we weren't coming back. She loved it up there"

Horatio nodded, listening to him.

Kalani took a deep breath to try and calm down. "We fell into a routine with mama and Nonna, and we forgot about having a dad," he said. "It was fun because we made new friends, and mom retired and opened a business with Nonna. Then Nonna got sick, and you came...you held mom so close and whispered comforting words to her." He looked up at Horatio, puzzled. "But how did she know you were in trouble?"

"Your mom and I have been friends for a long time," Horatio said. "She just knows. Super powers, remember?"

"She's an amazing mom," Kalani said. "We're lucky to have her"

Horatio hugged him. "Let's go talk to your mom now," he said. "And maybe she'll give your games back"

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Kailani had pulled the bread out of the oven and let it cool. She had dropped the raviolis in the boiling water, walking Isabella through the steps. She started to plate up the ravioli with the sauce and the bread. "Boys, dinner!" she called

Kalani heard his mom shout for them. He hugged Horatio back and nodded. "Let's go," he said. "She doesn't want to have to call us again"

Horatio nodded and stood up, opening the door. "After you sir," Horatio said. "You go tell your mom what you told me"

Kalani walked out first and hugged his mother. "Mama," he said. "You have the most amazing superpower in the world. You know when someone is in trouble. I'm sorry I was rude to you and Isabella"

Isabella nodded, accepting the apology. "It's fine," she said. "I know today was a hard day"

Kailani hugged her son back. "Thank you for the apology," she said rubbing his back. "Tomorrow I will give back everything. But tonight you have a room to clean and dinner to eat"

"Yes mama," he said hearing her words. "You're welcome"

The three of them washed their hands and sat down to eat. "Tonight's dinner is special," Kailani said. "Isabella helped me make it"

Horatio looked surprised, as did Kalani. "Really?" Kalani asked. "You helped mama? You never want to get your hands dirty!"

"Well," Isabella said. "I figured, that today was a rough day for both of us, so..I thought I would be nice, and help mama with the cooking"

"I wanna help tomorrow, mama," Kalani said. "I want something with chicken"

"Alright, we'll look through the recipes tomorrow" Kalani said.

"Kai," Horatio said. "Kai, I was thinking tomorrow we could go look at cars for you. I could ask Calleigh to come watch the kids tomorrow, while we shop"

"I would like that very much," Kai said. "I don't want to inconvenience you by taking your car all the time"

"I will text Calleigh after dinner" he told her.

Horatio took the first bite. It had a little too much filling but it was still good. "Bella, very good for your first attempt," he said. "I'm proud of you"

"Thanks," she said. "There's not too much filling? Mama said it was too much"

"Cooking," Horatio said. "Is a learning curve. There is a little too much filling, but that's okay. It's still good"

Isabella beamed. "Thank you, Horatio" she said. "I'm glad I did okay. Mama made the bread"

"I will make Ciabatta bread soon" Kailani added.

Horatio's phone rang during dinner and he excused himself.

Kailani understood that Horatio would have to answer calls from time to time during dinner. Although in this case, the caller could have waited to call.

Horatio stepped outside to answer the phone. He was surprised to find Eric there outside, waiting for him, an angry look on his face. "I'm not letting you do this, H," Eric growled. "I don't care what I have to do to stop you-I'll do it"

"Eric," he said. "Eric, is that a threat? Because if you're threatening me, or Kai or both of us, it's not going to end well for you"

Eric shrugged. "I don't care H," Eric said. "I don't care if I lose my job over this, I won't allow you to marry Lani"

Horatio sighed. "Eric-I don't want you to lose your job. Think about what you're doing. I'm prepared to overlook this, but only if you back off. This isn't your choice anymore"

Kailani heard the heated conversation outside. She turned to the kids. "Bedroom, now" she told them, getting up from the table.

Both kids ran to the bedroom and shut the door.

Kailani grabbed her keys. She went outside and locked the kids inside the house, then put the keys back in her pocket. She once again stood between Horatio and Eric. "Eric, you're being insane right now," she said "I won't let you hurt him. I love him. I've loved him since we were kids, but I never knew it until recently.. I loved you too Eric, but you broke me when you cheated on me. I have never talked ill about you to the kids, but what our son saw today...he's having a hard time dealing with that"

"I still love you, Lani," Eric said. "I want us to be a family again"

"No," she said. "No, you don't love me, you love the old me, the one that needed you. The one that needed you to feel safe from fear, and from herself. I'm no longer that woman, Eric..I know who I am now, and I know where I belong" she said pressing her back into Horatio's chest. "I belong with this man right here. You gave me something of you that I will always have. You gave me two beautiful children, and I see so much of you in them. But, please Eric, let me go"

Horatio held her close to him, his arm around her waist. He felt her inhaled a breath.

"Lani...Lani please," Eric said. "I need you and the kids, please. Please think about this"

"I have, Eric," she said. "I have thought about it. I know who I am now. I'm sorry Eric. I have made my decision and it's Horatio"

"You're going to regret, this Lani" Eric warned

"Eric," Horatio interrupted, stepping around Lani. "Eric, give me your badge and gun; you'll be on desk duty as of right now"

Eric reluctantly handed over his gun and badge. "You're not going to win this H," Eric said. "I will have Lani, she will come back to me"

Horatio sighed. "No Eric," he said. "She won't be coming back to you. Come on, let's go in the house Kai"

Kailani nodded, she was shaking as she unlocked the door. They both went inside, then, she went into the kitchen and knelt down on the floor.

Horatio made sure Kai was okay. Then he called Calleigh and asked her to come over tomorrow for a few hours, and watch the kids while he took Kailani car shopping.

"Of course Horatio," Calleigh said. "I'll be there around 8"

"Yes ma'am," he said. "See you then" He hung up and turned back to Kai putting his hand on her shoulder. "Kai..."

Kai stood up and hugged him. "H..." she said her voice shaking a bit. "I know we're going to get a car tomorrow, but I want to go to the courthouse too, I want to become your wife. And we'll get the kids adopted, or ask them what they want, but I don't want to wait anymore"

Horatio put Eric's stuff on top of the fridge and just held her. "We can do anything you want," he told her. "We'll go first thing in the morning. Why don't you go take a bath? Go relax"

"Thank you," Kai said. "I love you"

"I love you too," Horatio said. "I'll go talk to the kids"

Kai nodded and went into the bedroom. She got her night clothes before going into the bathroom to take a bath.

Meanwhile, Horatio knocked on the kids' door and went in.

Kani and Isabella were on the floor between the beds holding hands, they looked really scared. "Is he gone?" Isabella asked.

"Yes, sweetheart," He said. "He is. Are you two okay?"

"Is mama okay?" Kalani asked. "She sounded angry when she told us to come in here, is she mad at us?"

"No," Horatio said. "She's not mad at you, she's mad at Eric. He doesn't want your mom to marry me"

"Why?" Isabella asked. "He tried to hurt you, and mama protected you, twice"

"I've protected your mom a lot," he said. "There were times I couldn't protect her, but now...now I have the chance to do that. I will protect you both as well"

The siblings looked at each other, both having the same thought in mind. "Horatio..." Kalani said. "Will you adopt us?"

"Is that what you both would like?" he asked. "Is for me to adopt you both? Would you like to change your last name as well? From Delko to Caine?"

They talked about it for a minute before looking at him. "Yes, we would like our last name to be Caine" Isabella said

"Alright," Horatio said. "I'll talk to your mom about it tomorrow. Would you two be okay if I married her?"

"YES!!" they said in unison.

"Mama is so happy with you," Kalani said. "We just want her to smile. She's pretty when she smiles"

"Yeah," Isabella said. "The whole room lights up when she smiles"

"Yes," Horatio agreed. "Yes it does. Alright, let's get the room cleaned up, pajamas on, and then kisses and hugs for mom before bed"

"Why do I have to clean the room?" Isabella asked. "I didn't make the mess"

"Bella, we're going to be nice today," Horatio told her. "It's been a rough day for the both of you. Helping your brother is kind and it goes faster with more people helping"

"Okay," she said softly. "I don't like cleaning other people's messes though"

Kalani felt his temper rising again and looked at her. "I don't like it either!" he snapped at her. "I hate cleaning up after you! You leave your clothes and things all over the place...I'M ALWAYS cleaning up after you!!"

Isabella was taken aback by this. "Kani..." she said. "I-I'm sorry..." She looked at him before running out to the living room to cry.

Horatio sighed a bit. "Alright now," he said. "Did you mean to yell at her?"

"No," Kalani admitted. "It's just I'm always cleaning up after her in here, and she's saying she doesn't want to help. It just made me mad...it's like she's a princess who doesn't have to do anything and I get blamed for it when she doesn't"

Horatio hugged him. "We will talk to your mom," he told him. "About getting you, your own room. Would you like that?"

"I would," Kalani said. "I would like that very much"

"Maybe," Horatio said. "Maybe we'll get a bigger house, this one is kinda small"

Kalani nodded enjoying the embrace. Before long he ended up falling asleep on Horatio.

Horatio smiled and looked over to see that Kani was asleep. He held him a little longer before laying him down in bed. "Goodnight buddy" he whispered. He then headed out to the living room, where he found Isabella curled up asleep on the couch. He picked her up and put her to bed. "Goodnight, Bella"

He checked to make sure the house was locked up, then went to the bedroom to find Kai in her nightgown, looking over at the door. "Hey babe, is everything okay?" she asked

"Just a little scuffle," he assured her. "It's worked out now, they are both sleeping. How was your bath?"

"Relaxing," Kai said. "What did you three talk about?"

"How messy Isabella is," he started. "How they both asked me to adopt them, and about maybe getting a bigger house"

"Yes, I think a bigger house would be nice," she said. "One with four bedrooms, two bathrooms"

He smiled and pulled her to him. "Tomorrow," he said softly. "Tomorrow you will be Mrs. Horatio Caine"

"I can't wait to be your wife," she said. "I'm so happy we finally get to be together!"

"As am I," Horatio said smiling. "As am I, Captain Caine"

Kai giggled. "I retired, H," she said. "But that sounds amazing coming out of your mouth"

He chuckled. "Your laugh," he said. "It's so sweet to hear, Captain"

Kailani laughed again. "Lieutenant," she said. "As your captain, I order you to kiss me"

He smirked and kissed her deeply, pushing her back on the bed gently

Kai was a little nervous, she hadn't been with anyone since Eric. "Be gentle H," she whispered. "I haven't been with anyone in a while"

Horatio half-knelt over her, hands braced next to her shoulders. "So, Kai," he said with a gentle smile. He rested his hand on her cheek, thumb stroking the soft skin. "It's been a long time, has it?" He popped the top button on her shirt, sliding a hand inside. "Don't worry. We'll go slow, make this something to remember."

She nodded and moaned softly watching him, touching his face with her hands before undoing his shirt. Kai was nervous and wasn't afraid to show it to him, she knew he would be gentle with her.

Horatio kissed her softly, then bent to press his lips to her throat. He peppered a line of soft kisses down her neck as he undid the rest of her buttons, spreading her shirt open. She was just as beautiful as he expected. He ran his hands over her, eyes following his fingers. "My beautiful Kai," he said.

She blushed as her breath hitched in her throat from the trail of kisses. "Thank you," she whispered letting her hands roam from his cheeks to his chest. She lightly scratched him before letting her hands roam down to his stomach

The light, gentle movement of Kai's hands made Horatio's pulse race. It hadn't been as long for him as it had been for her -- but this was something he'd dreamed of doing, more than once, since they'd known each other. Kai had always belonged to somebody else, and it had never been the right time. But here they were, finally. He bent to suckle gently on her breasts as he finished undressing her. Then he pulled his own clothes off, climbing back onto the mattress to lie beside her.

"Mmm, H..." she moaned turning towards him kissing him more. She trailed her kisses from his lips to his chest before kissing down to his stomach and back up to his lips, letting him feel every little brush of her lips.

Kai's attention sent another rush of blood flooding southwards. Horatio's eyes dropped closed as her soft lips brushed across his skin, and he throbbed thickly, already fully erect. Slow and easy, he reminded himself. "Your mouth, Kai," he said in a low, quiet voice. "Your mouth is amazing. Come back up here and kiss me again." He skimmed a hand down the side of her body, following its contours, fingers coming to rest lightly on the arch of her hip.

She kissed her way back up to his lips. She put her hand on his cheek kissing his lips, a low soft moan escaping her throat as they locked lips. "Mmm" she said as her hand combed through his hair.

Kai's mouth was warm and soft, and tasted like Tiramisu. Horatio groaned quietly against her lips, too aroused to wait much longer. He slipped his hand off her hip and slid it gently between her legs, stroking and touching softly.

She let out a soft surprised moan while still kissing him, allowing her face to show her pleasure at his actions. "Oooh H..." Her body felt like it was on fire with everything he did, the light touches, the rubbing, the kisses. Kailani wasn't going to last much longer if he didn't take her, she wanted to feel everything, everywhere.

Horatio continued stroking Kai softly, exploring, fingers finding her sweet spot and rubbing gentle circles. Before long she was slick and wet and moving against his hand. He gently rolled her onto her back. She spread her thighs eagerly for him, and he knelt between them, stroking himself against her for a moment before entering her.

Her back arched as he entered her; she let out the sweetest moan he had ever heard thus far. "Oh H..." she whispered pulling him down to kiss him. "I'm ready for you to take me, make me yours"

He slowly pushed in all the way, and waiting for her to adjust to him.

She nodded when she was ready. She wrapped her legs around him and put her arms around his neck

Horatio leaned over her, kissing her as he started to move inside her, letting her feel every inch of him.

Kailani's hips started to match Horatio's rhythm and she let the moan she was holding back escape her lips. "Oh H..."

He put one hand under her and let the other hand wander her body. His thrusting got a little harder and faster as they made out.

She felt him hit that sweet spot and gave him a little louder moan. Her nails scratched his back. "There..." she breathed out. "Right there"

Horatio matched her moans as she ran her nails down his back, hearing her sounds as he hit her spot. He sped up a bit more continuing to hit that spot that made her moans seem sweeter to him. "Oh Kai..."

Kailani matched him pace for pace. She continued to scratch down his back, which she found made him thrust harder. "Oh yes...H..." she moaned, the moan leading into a pant

"Kai..." he moaned out, he was on the edge. "Kai.." Horatio sped up

She kissed him deeply as she continued to scratch his back. "H..I'm going to..." she moaned arching her back and getting as close to him as possible

He went faster and released hard into her "Ahh..." he said, thrusting a few more times, giving her everything he had.

She had clamped down on him releasing everything she had to give him. "Oh!! Mmm...H..." she said, as she felt him thrust one final time.

With his final thrust he kissed her deeply. When he broke the kiss he looked into her eyes.

Kai smiled as they gazed at each other. "I love you Horatio Caine, always and forever" she whispered.

"And I," he said smiling down at her. "I love you too Kailani Brown, forever and always. Tomorrow, I will make you my wife"

She nodded. She was content and didn't want to separate herself from him just yet. She looked into his eyes and saw the future she had dreamed of from the start.

After a few minutes Horatio slowly pulled away from her. He felt her shiver as he pulled away. He went into the bathroom and got a towel so they could both clean up.

He crawled back into bed with her and pulled her closer to him, kissing her softly. "I love you" he said softly

Kailani was almost completely asleep by the time he held her. She nodded as laid her head on his chest. Within seconds she was completely out for the night.

Horatio smiled, holding her and finally falling asleep himself. He couldn't wait to have this beautiful lady as his wife

Around 6:30 a.m. the next morning Kailani was up and showered before making breakfast. She was making Italian baked eggs & sausage for breakfast, along with two latte macchiatos. For the kids, they had chocolate milk.

The kids got up and got ready for their day. They had a few days left before school started, and did their best on that day to stay in their routine.

Horatio got up after the kids and got into the shower as Kai finished up breakfast. While he was in the bedroom dressing he heard her talking with the kids.

"Mama, you haven't hummed in a long time," Kalani said. "Did something good happen?"

"Yes," Kailani said. "Something good did happen. And more good will happen today. Calleigh will be here soon, Horatio and I are going out. I'm going to get a new car, and..." she couldn't stop smiling.

"And...?" Isabella asked.

"Today Horatio and I become husband and wife," Kai said. "Would you like us to put in adoption papers for Horatio?"

"Yes!!" the twins said in unison.

Horatio came out of the bedroom smiling. "Good morning you three," he said. "Are we ready to have a great day?"

"We are!!" Isabella said happily

Kailani served everyone breakfast. She set down the milks for the kids and the coffees for herself and Horatio, then came back with the food for everyone.

Kalani looked at the food. His mom hadn't made that particular breakfast since before his grandmother died. He smiled to himself and started to eat.

Horatio smiled and ate. Everything smelled and tasted as amazing as it had the first time he got to try her cooking, years before. The aromas brought back so many good memories for him. The first very time he had tried her cooking, he vowed one day she would be his wife- and today he was going to make that dream a reality.

Kailani finished first, she then kissed Horatio before taking her dishes to the sink. She went to get dressed for the day. She chose a simple sundress, white with red roses on it. It was the perfect dress for a simple courthouse wedding and car shopping.

Around 7:45 Calleigh showed up. Horatio let her in. "Good morning ma'am, are you hungry?" he asked.

"Good morning Horatio," she said. "I am, it smells amazing in here. Good morning kids"

"Morning!!" Isabella and Kalani said in unison finishing up their food.

Kailani came out of the bedroom, with her hair pulled back and wearing the biggest smile Calleigh had ever seen. "Good morning Calleigh. Would you like some breakfast and coffee?" she asked.

"Yes please," Calleigh said. "It smells amazing in here and you look fabulous"

Kailani blushed as she made Calleigh a plate and some coffee. "Thank you," she told her. "I feel fabulous, I'm just so happy"

Calleigh took the food and sat down. "Thank you," she said as she took a bite. "Oh my..this is..."

Kailani smirked. "Wait until you try the coffee," she told her kissing the kids' heads. "Be good for Calleigh, I love you and I'll see you soon"

"Okay mama!!" Kalani said. "See you later"

"Later mama," Isabella said. "We'll be good"

Kailani and Horatio left. They went to the courthouse first. While there they put in the adoption papers for the kids. Then they went to get a car for Kailani, so she didn't have to use Horatio's car all the time. She picked out a Nissan, it felt right for her and the kids. She test drove it and bought it, right then and there. She was in love with the car. Once the purchase was complete, she followed Horatio home.

Calleigh was playing the game of Life with the kids at the table when they arrived. Horatio came inside first.

"Ladies, and gentleman, may I present to you," he said with a wide smile on his face. "Mrs. Horatio Caine!"

Kailani came in with an even bigger smile on her face than Horatio's. "Hello my babies," she said. "And Calleigh, how were the kids?"

"They are terrific, we've been playing games," Calleigh said. "We've had tomato soup and grilled cheese for lunch"

"Oh, that sounds amazing!" Kai told her. "Thank you for taking care of the kids for us"

"You are more than welcome Kai," Calleigh told her. "You look so happy, your smile is lighting up the room!"

"I am happy!" she said. "Being with Horatio...feels right, feels natural. He's going to adopt the kids, too"

Calleigh smiled. She knew that would piss Eric off royally. "Well," she said. "I'm glad you are both happy. And I'm really glad that the kids are going to have a dad"

"Calleigh...we're going to go look for a new house," Kai said. "Would you go with us?"

"We are?!" Isabella said.

"Really mama? Dad?" Kalani asked looking at Horatio with a bit of a guilty feeling.

Horatio smiled. "Kalani," Horatio said. "You don't have to call me dad right away. Horatio is fine. You're not in trouble"

Kalani nodded. "Thanks, Horatio" he said

"Absolutely," Calleigh said. "Let's go!"

The five of them piled into Kailani's new car. Callie sat behind Horatio, so she didn't block Kailani's view, and the twins had to actually sit next to each other.

Horatio had a few houses pulled up on his phone to look at. They looked at several different place before they found the perfect one. The first few houses they looked at didn't have the right feel to them, and they were out of the school district Horatio was already in.

On their was home, they made one last stop. Kailani looked over at the address 2321 Poplar Lane- and saw the house. The real estate agent that was working with them got out and met them at the front door. She looked down the road- they were so close to Horatio's old place that she could just see Horatio's car, sitting down the street. This caused her more excitement, and she went into the house. They looked around, as she went to check out bedrooms.

"H," she called to him and ran out of the bedroom. "This is the one, this is the house...it's perfect. We can raise the kids here, it's in the same district, and it's just down the street!"

Calleigh saw how excited Kailani was, and smiled. "What do you two think?" she asked the twins.

They took Calleigh's hand explored the yard. "It's so big, more room to run and play!" Kalani said. "I love it!"

"Me too!!" Isabella said

Horatio smiled. He pulled the real estate agent to the side and hold her this was the one. She drew up an offer for him to sign, and sent it to the selling agent.
"Next week" he said.

Horatio thanked her. "We really want this place," he told her. "Call me right away when you hear back from the sellers." He loved seeing Kailani and the kids so happy and excited. He knew Kailani would already be making plans, setting things up in her mind about how to arrange the kitchen and the rest of the house.

"So, what happens next?" Kailani asked him, excited

"Well Kai," he said, smiling down at her. "If the owners accept my offer, then we take out a mortgage and get the place inspected, and set a closing date.

"If they accept, how soon could we move in?" She asked.

"It depends on how fast everything happens," Horatio explained. "Maybe a month"

"Perfect. That will give me time to get things packed and ready to move while the kids are in school, " she said. You won't have to worry about me, H. Once it's ours and have the keys, I'll be making this house a home for all of us"

"I can also come over and help on my days off" Calleigh offered.

"Ooh, I would like that very much," Kalani answered. "Is this house perfect or what?"

"It is perfect," Calleigh said. "When you know, you know"

The agent promised to call Horatio as soon as there was any new, and they all piled back into Kailani's new care and left the house

The kids hadn't seen their mom in this good of a mood in a long time. They were excited about the house and talked about it on the short drive back home

Calleigh smiled. She was happy for Horatio, Kailani and the kids. This was the first honest smile Calleigh had seen from Kailani's face in a very long time.

Horatio hadn't seen her smile like this since they were kids. It warmed his heart to see her so happy.

"Hey Kai, can I get a picture of the four of you?" Calleigh asked. "A family photo. Your very first one."

"You should be in the photo too Calleigh," Kailani said. "You're apart of the family too"

Kailani got the tripod and her phone set up. Calleigh stood on Horatio's left, Kai on his right and the two kids in the middle. The timer went off and took the picture. Kai took a quick look at the view screen and smiled. It was the best picture she had of her best friend, her new husband and the kids. This one, she thought to herself, was going on the wall by the door in the new house. The picture was a start of all the new memories she would be making in her new life with Horatio and the kids.

A week later school started for the kids. Kailani got them to school and walked them both to class. They had separate classrooms, but the rooms were close to each other.

"Alright guys, have a great first day! I'm going to get stuff ready for a yard sale" she said. "Just things like old shirts and pants you don't wear anymore, little things like that"

The kids nodded. They were scared to start a new school.

Kalani pulled her down. "I wish we were still in Alaska" he whispered.

Kai knelt down next to him. "You'll do great here, you'll make friends here just like you did there," she told him. "You got this, buddy, I have faith in you"

"Okay," he said. "I still wish we were there"

"Call me later about lunch time if you can't handle it okay?"

He nodded and gripped her hand tighter.

Isabella approached a little girl. "Hi, I'm Isabella" she told her.

"Great, don't care, go away" the little girl replied.

Isabella shrugged and went to her classroom. She found her seat, and set up her desk.

Kailani looked around for her daughter, and saw her in the classroom across the hall. She smiled. "I have to go now Kalani, you'll be alright" she promised.

Kindergarten had been a snap compared to today. "Andrà tutto bene Kalani, sei un ragazzo forte e aspetterò di sapere della tua giornata quando torni a casa" Kai said ("It's going to be okay Kalani, you are a strong young man, and I'll be waiting to hear about your day when you get home")

"Non posso andare a casa con te mamma? Ho paura" he asked. ("Can't I go home with you, mama? I'm scared")

"Go take your seat" she told him.

He dragged his feet in doing so, but got there eventually and sat down.

Kailani knelt next to him. "You'll be fine. Stay until lunch" she told him

He nodded and watched her leave.

The teacher in Kalani's class stepped up to the blackboard. "Okay class, we have a new student," she said. "His name is Kailani Delko."

"No, my name is Kalani Delko...my mother's name is Kailani"

"Oh...I apologize" the teacher said. "Tell us about yourself"

"Well..my twin sister Isabella and I were born here in Florida," Kalani said "We moved to Alaska when we were two, and just recently moved back. My mom was a CSI, my bio dad and my stepdad are both CSIs"

"Oh that's interesting!" the teacher said. "What are their names?"

"Eric Delko and Horatio Caine," Kalani said. "I have Italian, Hispanic, and Hawaiian in my blood"

"Can you speak any Hawaiian?" one kid asked.

"No," Kalani answered. "Our mother never taught us, we didn't know we were Hawaiian until recently. I can't speak Spanish either, but I can speak fluent Italian" he said.

"Say something in Italian" another kid said.

"È un piacere conoscervi tutti, mi chiamo Kalani Delko" ("It's nice to meet you all, my name is Kalani Delko") Kalani said.

"What did you say?" the teacher asked.

"It's nice to meet you all, my name is Kalani Delko" Kalani repeated in English.

"Please go sit down" the teacher said.

He nodded. Kalani felt like he had done something wrong. Still, he would wait until lunch to call his mom.

Kai got home and started to work on dinner, but didn't know what to make. Something with chicken? As she debated this her stomach churned. Kailani wondered what was going on, then remembered her stomach had felt funny earlier too. She looked at the ingredients she had pulled out "Of course," she said, thinking aloud. The garlic and spices all had strong aromas; maybe they were bothering her already sensitive stomach. She decided to take a break and go lie down; on the way to the sofa she dialed Horatio.

He looked at his phone and smiled. "Good morning Kai" he said

"Horatio..." she said. Then she fell to the floor along with her phone.

Horatio heard a thump on the other end of the line, then silence. "Kai," he said. "Kailani!!"

Calleigh came running when she heard him yell into the phone. "Horatio, what is it?"

"It's Kai, something's wrong" he said.

"Let's go" Calleigh said

They ran past Eric and Ryan. "H, what is it?" Eric asked.

"Not now, Eric" Horatio said getting into the drivers side of the Hummer. He picked up the radio to make a call. "This is Lt. Horatio Caine, I need an ambulance at 2317 Poplar Lane for a Captain Kailani Brown"

As he was pulling up to the house the ambulance pulled up too. Horatio got out and opened the door of the house. "Kai," He called. "Kai!!"

He found her in the hallway and gently picked her up. "Kai, wake up" he said softly

The EMTs went into the house, and Horatio laid her on the gurney. "Take her to Miami Dade Gen, I'll be right behind you," he said. "Calleigh, I need you to go get the kids..I'm sure Kai put you on the pick up list"

Calleigh nodded, and drove over to the school. The front office clerk looked up at her. "Hello my name is Calleigh Duquesne. I was wondering if Kailani Brown put me down to pick up her kids," she asked. "Kalani and Isabella Delko"

The lady looked through the records. "Yes she did. Do you need them now?"

"Yes please, I need to take them home" she said. "Lt. Horatio Caine sent me"

"Yes ma'am" the office clear said, calling the teachers for both kids.

While Calleigh was getting the kids, Horatio was behind the ambulance that held Kailani, following it as it rushed her to the hospital.

He parked and went inside the ER. He explained to the doctors about what happened.

The kids came to the office and saw Calleigh. "What's going on?" Isabella asked. "Where's mom?"

"I'll tell you back at the house" Calleigh promised signing them out

The doctors rushed to draw lab samples and check vitals, and do a work up on Kailani, trying to determine what had caused her to faint.

An hour later, Horatio had Kailani's results. "Congratulations Lt. Caine. You're going to be a father, your wife is pregnant!"

Horatio looked a little confused. "Is that what caused her to faint?"

"Yes, more than likely. Did she do this with her last pregnancy?" the doctor asked

"No. As far as I know with her last pregnancy everything went smoothly. But I wasn't around at that time, either, so I can't be positive" Horatio said

"Should I contact the father from the last time?"

"No," he said. "She wants nothing to do with him. Her mother has passed away. You could call on Dr. Alexx Woods or Calleigh Duquesne, they were around Kailani a lot"

The doctor nodded. "You may go see her now, you'll be able to take her home soon"

"Alright, doctor," Horatio said. "Thank you"

Horatio got Kailani room number and went to sit with her. He took her hand. "You," he whispered, "gave me quite the scare"

Calleigh got the kids home and into the house. "Alright Calleigh, spill it" Isabella said.

"Alright, miss sassy pants," Calleigh said. "Let's drop the 'tude"

"Sorry," she said. "I'm just worried about mama"

"Well," Calleigh told them. "I don't know all the details, but your mom called Horatio. And right after he answered, she just fell over with her phone in hand. She's in the hospital right now getting checked out"

Kalani was deep in thought. He was almost positive his mom hadn't looked like herself this morning, she had looked paler than normal. Kalani had thought he was going out of his mind with what he had seen. That could explain why he had wanted to be home with her, he had known something was not right, and wanted to protect her.

Meanwhile, back at the hospital, Kailani was just waking up. "H...?" she asked, looking up.

"Welcome back" Horatio said to her. "How do you feel?"

"I'm okay," Kailani said. "I didn't make anything for dinner; I was getting ready to cook but, my stomach didn't feel right...I don't know why I fainted"

About that time the doctor came in. "Lt. and Mrs. Caine. I have your results back; now we know why you fainted" the doctor said

"Oh?" Kailani asked. "What's the reason?"

"You are anemic this time around, so I'm giving you prenatal vitamins with more iron in it" the doctor explained.

She made a face at that. "That would explain the queasy feeling I had" she said. "I thought it was because I ate something weird...wait...what? I'm pregnant?!"

Horatio had watched her connect the dots in her head, and he chuckled. "Kai," he said. "How do you feel about this news?"

"But..we just.." she said. "It hasn't even been that long...it was just a week..what..?"

Kailani felt so confused about what was going on. She wasn't sure what she was going to tell the kids. How would they feel about this? Could she do this again with Horatio? What was to stop her from running with three kids? Kailani looked over at Horatio. 'He's the reason, I can do this, I have to lean on him, he is my support now' Kai thought to herself.

"Mrs. Caine," the doctor said. "I'm sending you home, I suggest you start taking the prenatal vitamins starting tomorrow, we've already given you some iron today so that should help. If you have anymore problems please don't be afraid to call the hospital" He took the IV out as they talked.

"Kai," Horatio said kissing her. "I'll be right back"

She nodded and sighed. This would give her time to think. Kailani texted Alexx. "Hey Alexx," she said

"Hey baby, what's wrong?" Alexx asked, concerned. She had been very protective towards Kailani ever since the day they met.

"I'm pregnant," Kailani told her. "And, don't be mad, but I'm married too"

"Does Horatio know about both?" Alexx questioned.

"Yeah, he does," Kai said. "He's my husband and the baby's father"

Alexx took a moment to be excited, then composed herself. "Congratulations baby, I'm so happy for you both!" she said. "You better take your prenatals"

"Yes mom," Kailani said rolling her eyes as she said it. "Alexx, please don't tell Eric...or anyone else...I want to tell them myself"

"You got it Kai, my lips are sealed" Alexx promised, just as Eric walked in. "Talk to you later baby" Alexx quickly hung up.

"What's going on Alexx? Was that Lani?" Eric asked.

"I can't tell you that Eric," Alexx said. "Are you here for the case, or are you trying to get information out of me about your ex-wife?"

"Both," Eric said honestly. "She hasn't called me, or talked to me since I went over to the house"

Alexx gave him the 'I wonder why' look. "Well baby you did threaten both her and Horatio," she reminded Eric. "Did you really think she was going to call or talk to you after that?"

"I miss her so much," Eric said. "My kids told me they don't want me as their dad anymore, they would rather have H...I miss them Alexx. This hurts worse than her moving out of state"

"You're lucky Horatio didn't press charges," Alexx told him. "You're damn lucky all he did was give you desk duty. You need to get over the past and move forward"

Eric took the file and evidence and left the morgue, sighing. He knew Alexx was right, she was always right. 'Damn her,' Eric thought to himself. 'Damn her for always being right'. He took the short elevator ride back to the lab and handed everything to Natalia. "Hey Nat, have you talked to Kailani lately?" he asked.

"Delko," Natalia said. "You need to get over her. You're obsessed with her, and that's not healthy" She took the things into the lab, and got to work.

Eric went to sit in one of the interview offices. He sat there thinking heavily on how to get over Kailani.

When Horatio came back he had a gift for her. He had also made lunch reservations for a couple of days from now so they could celebrate her pregnancy and their marriage.

"Kai," he said softly. "Are you ready to go?"

She jumped when he spoke, as she had been deep in thought. "Yes," Kailani said. "I'm ready to go..this is going to be big news for the kids"

"Yes," Horatio said. "It is going to be big news. Kai, while I was out getting you a gift, I made reservations at Caffee Vialetto for a couple of days from now. For lunch, as a celebration of us"

Kailani got out of bed and took his hand. "I love you H," she said. "How are you always my knight in shining armor? How did I get so lucky?"

He pulled her close and kissed her. "Kai," he said. "I'm the lucky one. The day I met you, I knew we were meant to be, but it wasn't the right time for us. Now is the right time, I'm never letting you go again. I'm never giving up on you"

She nodded and smiled. "I'm not giving up on you either," she said. "I love you so much"

He walked her to the car and opened the door for her. "You, missy," he said looking down at her, "need to stop scaring me while I'm at work. You're going to give me a heart attack"

Kailani got in and looked up at him. "I know," she said. "I'm sorry H, I'm not doing it on purpose"

He leaned down and kissed her again. "I know Kai," Horatio said. "I know". Horatio walked around to the driver's side and got in and they headed home.

The kids didn't make it to lunch, as they were pulled out early on their first day. Calleigh had them make crafts for their mom, to keep them occupied and to make her feel better.

Kalani made a heart. When he saw Horatio pull up the drive, he took his heart over and stood by the door. "Come on Bella," he said. "Mama's home!"

Bella had made an Italian flag. She picked it up and stood by Kalani. He was trying not to smack her for making a flag. "What?" Bella asked. "She'll love it!"

Horatio help Kai out of the car, walked her to the door and let her in first. "Welcome home," Horatio said. "You have a welcoming crew"

She smiled. "Hello babies," she said, hugging them both. She made a fuss over the crafts the kids had made for her, admiring them out loud "Bella, I love it, but why the Italian flag?"

"I was thinking, that you would like to see it," Bella said trying not to cry. "I know you miss Nonna. And I wanted you to feel closer to her"

Isabella threw down the flag and ran to the bedroom. She was upset. She wasn't one to show emotions often but this bothered her, really bothered her.

Kalani handed her the heart. "Here you go," Kalani said. "Thank you for talking me into staying. I think I got in trouble after you left though--another kid asked me to speak Italian, and I did, and the teacher told me to go sit down"

"Kani," Kailani said softly. "I'll come back to talk to you, but I need to talk to your sister first. She's upset" She picked up the flag and carried it with her to Bella's room.

Kalani felt like his mom was dismissing his feelings and he didn't like it. He went to the living room to pout.

Horatio called after him. "Talk to me," Horatio said. "Tell me about it, I will listen to you"

Kalani nodded and waited for Horatio in the living room. Calleigh looked over at Horatio and shrugged. "He never said anything to me about it" she told him.

"Thank you, ma'am," Horatio said to her. "For coming with me and helping me out. I couldn't have done this without you. And it's alright"

"You're welcome," Calleigh said, then turned to Kalani. "Kalani, I'm going now bud, you know you can always talk to me"

Kalani went over to her and hugged her. "Thank you Calleigh," he said. "I'm glad you're my mom's friend, and Horatio's too"

Calleigh hugged him back. "You're welcome bud," Calleigh said. "You can always call me, Horatio can give you my number. And if you are home with your mom and it's just you three call me"

He nodded. "Thanks Calleigh," he said. "That means a lot to me" He gave her one more hug then let her go and went back to the living room to wait for Horatio.

Kailani went in the room and sat on the bed next to Isabella. "Bella," she said softly. "Come here"

Isabella sat in her lap. "Kani told me not to do the flag," she said. "I should've listened to him.."

Kailani smiled and petted her daughter's hair. "I know you miss Nonna," she said. " And I love the flag. I tell you what, why don't we put in the front room, where we all can look at it? That way we can both keep Nonna close to our hearts. And you're not stupid, never put yourself down. You are a smart girl. I know Nonna is smiling as she watches over us"

Meanwhile, Calleigh left the house. Horatio locked up behind her and went to the living room to talk to Kalani.

Kalani launched into all the details of the day. He talked about how he felt his emotions were being dismissed by his mom and how it made him feel.

Horatio patiently listened and nodding when he needed to. "I know today was a busy day for everyone," Horatio said. "I know you think your feelings were being dismissed by your mom. But, how often does Isabella show her feelings?"

He sighed. "Very rarely," Kalani said. "But still..I should've been here! I should've protected mom...today was bad and I don't want to go back tomorrow" He looked up at Horatio with tears in his eyes. "I just want to protect mom..."

Kailani overheard and took Isabella to the living room. This probably wasn't the best time to tell them they were getting a new sibling but she wanted to be honest with the kids. "Bella, Kani," Kailani said. "I have to tell you the reason I was in the hospital today, I want you to listen carefully and really hear what I say"

Both kids nodded. "Yes mama" they said

She had Isabella sitting on one leg; she patted her leg for Kalani to sit on the other one. He moved to her lap and leaned into her.

"Isabella, Kalani," she said. "I went to the hospital today because my iron is low. That's why I fainted" She took a deep breath. "And, another piece of news Horatio and I found out today is...I'm pregnant with Horatio's baby"

The twins sat there taking in everything she said. Kalani looked up at his mom first. "We're going to have a new baby?" he asked making sure he heard her correctly.

"Yes," Kailani said. "You're going to have a little brother or sister sometime in May right before summer break"

"Oh cool! I hope it's a girl," Isabella said. "Don't you, mommy?"

"I've already got one of each, but this would be Horatio's first girl," Kai said. "Kani, what do you think it will be?"

Kani frowned. He didn't want a new baby in the house. He liked the small family they had already. "I don't care," he said. "Once the baby is here you're just going to push me aside like you did tonight, I don't want a new sibling! I like our family now!!" he said getting down and going to his room. His feelings were hurt.

Kailani put Isabella down and curled into the couch. This was going to be hard for all of them, the kids especially. Horatio wished he could take the pain away from all three of them, but it was an impossible task. He started with the one pain he could try to take away, Kailani's. "Kai," he said softly. "Are you alright?"

"No," Kailani said. "I'm not...I thought they would be happy...I guess I was wrong"

"You have one that is happy," Horatio pointed out. "Isabella is happy, I'm happy. And I know you're happy"

"Nonna is happy too," Isabella said. "I know she is! Don't worry about about Kani, he'll be alright. He'll get over it"

Horatio and Kailani had both forgotten Isabella was still there. Kailani looked over at her daughter and nodded. "I really miss Nonna right now," Kailani said. "I'm glad you made that flag, to keep her close to our hearts"

Isabella hugged them both, then went to the bedroom to sit with her brother. Kailani cried, her heart was hurting. This was the first pregnancy without her mom to share it, to support and tell her how beautiful she was. But, this was the first and only pregnancy with Horatio by her side. That meant so much to her. And it didn't make up for her own mom not being there, but it helped knowing that Nonna would watch over her always.

As the day wound down, Horatio ordered out. He decided tonight was a good night for food the kids rarely had hamburgers, french fries, steaks and ribs. He even ordered shrimp as a special treat.

When the food arrived he called everyone to the kitchen to eat. The kids came out of their room. "Hamburgers?!" they said in unison.

"Yes," Horatio said. "I ordered a lot of food, I hope you like it"

"What about mama?" Kalani asked.

"I'll save her some food," he said. "She's very tired right now. Your mom thinks you're mad at her"

"I'm not mad," Kalani said. "I just like how we are. Just the four of us...I feel like attention is going to be taken away from us because of the baby"

"We won't let that happen," Horatio told him. "Your mom and I are going to make sure you get equal amounts of attention, just like always"

"Right," Kalani said. "She's going to have the baby all day. Do you expect me to believe she's going to want to give us attention?! We're just going to be pushed aside! Neither of you are going to care if we are here or not!!" He got down from the table slamming the bedroom door closed behind him.

Kailani, who had been resting, jumped and sat up. "Horatio, what's going on?" she asked.

"It's Kalani," Horatio said. "Feels like he's going to be pushed aside when the baby is born"

Kailani got up and knocked on the door. "Kalani," she said. "May I come in?"

"No!" he said. "Just leave me alone!!" He sat on his bed crying. It had been a very bad, very rough first day of school; he felt like nothing was going right today.

Isabella sat there eating quietly. She had, had a great first day of school. She was sorry Kalani hadn't had a good day, but she wasn't going to say that and rub it in his face.

Kailani went to the kitchen and saw the food. It smelled good, but at the same time her stomach did flip flops. She went and sat down, and grabbed some food.

Horatio kissed her hand and smiled. "It's alright," he said. "Just breathe, everything will work out fine"

Kailani didn't eat a lot. She was starving, but the food H had ordered wasn't appealing to her.

"Kai," Horatio asked. "Is something wrong? Did I order something wrong?"

"No," Kailani said. "You did good, H, I'm sorry but the smells just aren't agreeing with me. Nothing feels right to me, I'm sorry"

"Come on," he said, taking Kai back to the bedroom. She laid down on the bed and closed her eyes. Horatio came back to the kitchen to clean up. "I'm sorry Isabella" he said.

"It's okay," Isabella said. "I'll help you clean up. Is mama going to be okay? Kani always always been a mama's boy. But his feelings are still valid"

"Yes," he said. "Yes they are. Thank you for the help. As far as I know your mom will be okay. I have a date with her for the day after tomorrow, while you two are in school"

Isabella smiled. "She'll like that," she said. "Mama really loves you, Horatio, I'm glad you two finally got together"

"Thanks," Horatio said. "That means a lot to us" The two of them put dinner away and Isabella made school lunches for the next day for herself and Kalani. Horatio cleaned the kitchen. Isabella went and got her pajamas on and checked on Kailani, who was now asleep again.

Meanwhile, across town, Eric sat on the sofa watching TV with Calleigh. "Hey," Eric asked her. "What took you so long to get back to PD? Is everything alright with Lani?"

"I don't know," Calleigh said. "I really don't know what happened today. I just know Horatio needed me there with him today, and I went to help. Why? What are you up to?"

"What do you mean, you don't know?" Eric questioned. "You were there, you were with the kids right? How's Lani? And I'm not up to anything"

"Why, Eric Delko," Calleigh said looking at him. "I do believe you're lying to me. You still have feelings for Kailani, everyone knows that. You want her back don't you?"

"Why is that a secret, Cal?" Eric asked, annoyed. "I've been trying to get her back since she came back to town. I still have time before she and H get married"

'You poor bastard,' Calleigh thought to herself. 'You can't see the ring Horatio has on his finger? Or maybe you just don't want to see it'

Calleigh pretended to watch the TV show. As she did so she was trying to figure out what Eric was up to and how Kailani was involved. "You better not do something stupid," Calleigh told him. "Don't do anything that is going to cost you your job, or this relationship. If you hurt Kailani in anyway Eric Delko, I will never forgive you"

He chuckled out of nervousness. "Why would I hurt her?" he asked. "I just want to talk to her"

"Not one hair," Calleigh enunciated. "Got it?"

"Yes ma'am," Eric said. "I got it" He looked at Calleigh and knew she was serious. Eric knew she wasn't messing around, he knew how intense she could be. She made a few clients uncomfortable from time to time, Eric knew she could do it to him too, in a heartbeat.

Calleigh laid down, but didn't sleep. She couldn't get what Eric had said out of her head. She had a bad feeling, and started to text Horatio. But then she reconsidered-maybe she was just overreacting.

Eric laid down with his back towards Calleigh. He knew she would go grocery shopping soon, he still knew her schedule though it had been years.

The next morning Horatio went to work. Kailani hung over the toilet, being sick. The twins got up, got something to eat, and got ready for school.

Kalani went into the bathroom and held his mother's hair back as she threw up. "I'm sorry mama. Call me out of school; I want to stay home and take care of you" he said

"Hmm," she said. "I can call you both out today, but tomorrow you have to go to school" she told him. "I have errands to run tomorrow and I can't have you guys out of school a lot, and it's until I can get the stuff to homeschool you both"

Calleigh had the day off. She decided to call Kailani to check in on her.

Kalani answered the phone. "Hello, Kailani's phone," he answered. "This is Kalani"

"Hey Kani, it's Calleigh," she said. "May I talk to your mom, please?"

Kai took the phone from him. "Thanks, baby," she said. "Hey Calleigh, what's up?"

"I have the day off," Calleigh said. "I was wondering if you would like me to keep you company today"

"Yes," Kai said. "I would like that very much"

"Mom!" Isabella called from the other room. "We've got to go!!"

Kai looked at the time. "Damn," she said. "Bella...can you walk to school? I don't feel so good"

Isabella came into the room. "Seriously?" she asked her mom. "I can walk to school? You never let us. Hey, Kani," she yelled to her brother. "Why aren't you ready to go?"

"I'm going to stay home and take of mom," Kani said. "I don't like school"

Isabella rolled her eyes and left the room. As soon as she opened the front door, she saw Calleigh. "Hey Calleigh," Isabella said. "Can you walk me to school?"

"Kai?" Calleigh called. "Is it okay?"

"Fine," Kai called back from the bathroom before throwing up again. "Take my keys to lock up"

Calleigh took Kai's keys, and took Isabella to school. "What's on your mind?" she asked Isabella as they walked. "Is it about Kani or your mom?"

"Both," Bella said honestly. "Mom's too old to have another kid. Although I'm happy about it, Kani's not. And I think Kani was getting bullied yesterday by the teacher and class, that's why he wanted to stay home today"

They arrived at the school and Calleigh squeezed Bella's hand. "I'll take care of your mom and your brother," she told her. "Don't worry they are in good hands"

"Thanks Calleigh," Isabella said. "Will you pick me up after school?"

"Of course!" Calleigh promised. "Have a good day kiddo, see you later"

Bella waved to Calleigh and ran into the school. She couldn't wait to get the day started.

Meanwhile Kai had climbed back into bed napping. Kalani sat with her, reading a book. Calleigh walked in and poked her head into the bedroom to see Kai napping. She then called Horatio.

"Good morning ma'am," Horatio said, answering the phone. "To what do I owe this phone call?"

"Hey Horatio," Calleigh said. "I'm here with Kai this morning. She's not feeling too good this morning, so I just walked Isabella to school. And listen...I talked to Eric last night, and I'm kind of worried. I almost texted you last night. Maybe I'm overreacting, but I just have a bad feeling about something" she confessed

"What kind of feeling?" Horatio asked. "Is it about Kai?"

"Yes," Calleigh said. "I don't know if Eric is ballsy enough to do it, but I'm worried he's going to do something stupid"

"What kind of something stupid? What are you worried about, Calleigh?" he asked

"Well, I could be wrong..but I think he's either going to go after the kids, or Kai" she said.

"Alright, Calleigh," Horatio said. "Thank you for letting me know; I'll be taking the kids to school tomorrow then"

"Also, I have to talk to Kai about something," Calleigh added. "Isabella said that she thinks Kalani was bullied yesterday at school"

Horatio listened to what she was saying. "That would explain everything" he told her. "He said yesterday he got in trouble at school for speaking Italian, even though they asked him to speak it"

"I'll see if I can talk to him," Calleigh said. "I'll let you go so you can get back to work; I promise to take good care of your girl"

Horatio chuckled. "Thank you ma'am," he said. "I'll talk to you soon, and I won't say a word about what you told me"

"Thank you Horatio," she said. "I don't want to worry Kai for no reason. I want to be wrong about this; I hope I'm wrong"

"Me too, Calleigh," Horatio said. "Me too, and thank you again"

Eric was in an interrogation room writing down what Kailani's schedule would be. "First she'll drop the kids off at school," he mumbled, as he wrote it down. "I'll avoid the school. I'm sure she'll go back to the house, then go out grocery shopping to make an amazing dinner. I'll talk to her at the store; probably on the way out would be easier...but should it be my car or hers?"

Ryan and Natalia stood in the lab, and watched Eric making notes. "What do you think he's doing?" Ryan asked.

"Honestly?" Natalia asked. "I think he's lost his mind. He's still hung up about his ex-wife. I wouldn't be surprised if he was planning on cornering her somewhere and talking to her, about going back to him"

Little did either of them know Horatio was listening to their conversation. He looked over to see Eric making a list.

"You mean Kailani?" Ryan asked Natalia. "Didn't Eric cheat on her? Wasn't he the one that broke up the marriage, and caused her to leave Florida in the first place?"

"Yep," Natalia said. "He knew she had a past, and him cheating on her was a kick in the teeth" She looked over the case file about their latest case, voluntary manslaughter.

Ryan looked back at her. "Alright, so what do we have?" he asked looking over the case with her. "Evabeth Ragsdill, is that who is on Alexx's table?"

"Yes," Natalia said, looking at the name. "Did her parents hate her? This poor girl, she had to have been teased..."

"Either they hated her," Ryan said. "Or the mother was really high on some good drugs while she was in labor"

Horatio had a way of sneaking up on people, and Eric was no exception. "Eric," Horatio said softly. "What's the list you're making? Is it something about Kai?"

Eric jumped, and covered the papers with his body. "H..," he said, looking at him. "You scared me. Why would it be about Lani? What gave you that idea?"

Horatio put his hand on the table, so Eric could clearly see the wedding ring. "You're not thinking about doing anything that would endanger Kai, are you" he asked. "Or the kids. You wouldn't put your job at risk would you?"

Eric chuckled nervously, the same way he had with Calleigh. He also chose to ignore the ring on Horatio's finger. "No," he said smiling at Horatio. "Why would I hurt Lani or the kids? I just want to talk to her H; that's it, I swear"

Ryan nudged Natalia, and looked over at the interrogation room where Eric and Horatio were. "He's up to something," Ryan said. "I have a feeling we're going to be really busy tomorrow"

"Maybe not us personally," Natalia said. "But probably PD themselves. We should concentrate on this case, and just let Horatio come to us if he feels we need to know"

Ryan nodded agreeing, and went down to the morgue where Alexx was working on Evabeth.

Alexx stood over the body, looking down. "Baby, did your mama hate you?" she asked. "You poor girl, you didn't deserve to die. Don't worry baby. I'll let you rest in peace soon enough"

"What is it about this name?" Ryan asked. "To make both you and Natalia think her mother hated her?"

"Baby," Alexx said "no woman, don't matter her color, would name a child Evabeth. That name is ugly as sin; sounds like an old-day name. This poor child probably got teased to no end" Ryan sighed softly. "Alright," he said. He knew better than to argue with her. "Do you have anything for me?"

"You know where the evidence is Ryan," Alexx said. "How's Horatio? I know he left earlier with Calleigh; is everything okay?"

"As far as I know, it is," Ryan said. "Alexx, you've known Kailani for a while right?"

"Yes," she said. "Why? What's going on Ryan?"

Ryan was hesitant to answer her. "Tell me about Eric and Kailani," he said. "Before he cheated on her"

Alexx sighed. "Ryan, baby," she said. "That's a story for another day. Unless- wait do you think Eric is going to do something stupid?"

"Natalia said," Ryan stated, "that he is still hung up on Kailani"

"And," Horatio said, overhearing the conversation, "Natalia is correct. He is still hung up on Kai. He couldn't handle her at her worst, which was when she was being broken, trying to heal. And now he wants her at her best, which is healed and happy. She told him- he couldn't have her, but he's not taking no for an answer"

"Does he know you two are married?" Alexx asked. "Or does he think the ring is still from Marisol?"

"I don't know, Alexx," Horatio said. "If he does think it's from Marisol, it's been a while since she's been alive. I won't be in tomorrow. I'm planning to take Kai out on a date, but that may get put on hold"

Ryan left to take the evidence up to the lab, leaving Alexx and Horatio alone in the morgue.

"You're worried aren't you Horatio?" Alexx asked. "You're worried he's going to do something stupid. Does he know about her being...you know?"

"No, Alexx," Horatio said. "He doesn't..., but, how do you know?"

"Kai told me," Alex said. "I guess congratulations are in order?"

He smiled. "Yes. But she's actually not feeling too well right now," Horatio told her. "A lot of smells are making her nauseous. I hope it doesn't last forever"

Alexx smiled listening to him babble on like a first-time father. Technically, he was. He hadn't found out about his first one until a few years, ago and the boy was practically already an adult by then. He was acting as a dad to two amazing kids, from his current wife's first marriage that hadn't panned out so well- but for all practical purposes, he was still a first time father.

Alexx could tell he was worried and concerned for his wife. She listened to his concerns. "Horatio, Kailani has some odd luck," she told him. "She'll be fine; she'll be sassier than ever, you just wait"

Horatio smiled at her. "Alexx," he said. "You're right. If it wasn't for her odd luck she would have no luck at all. God knows I love that woman with all my heart and soul, and I would be heartbroken if anything bad happened to her"

"Go home, Horatio," Alexx said, smiling. "Your wife needs you, the kids need you. Go pick her up her favorite flowers, favorite chocolates, movie, whatever. Show her how much you love and care for her"

"I think I'll do that, Alexx" Horatio said. "I think I will; thanks for listening"

"Anytime Horatio," Alexx said. "Anytime. You tell Kai to call me if she ever needs to talk"

Horatio smiled and bid Alexx goodbye, then he went back to the lab to finish up. He decided to take Alexx's advice and went to pick up Lani's favorite things.

Meanwhile, back at the house, Kalani was in the kitchen with Calleigh, making some homemade chicken soup. "Calleigh..." Kani said.

"Yes, Kani?" Calleigh asked softly. "What's on your mind?"

He was cutting up vegetables under Calleigh's supervision. "I don't want to go back to school," he said. "I want to be homeschooled. I hope mama agrees to it"

Kailani was laying in bed in the next room, her stomach finally settled, no long queasy. She laid there, listening to the conversation between her best friend and her eight year old son.

"Why would you like to be homeschooled?" Calleigh asked pulling the whole chicken out and using what was in the pot for the broth. It was a recipe her mom had taught her. "Did something happen?"

Kalani was quiet for a moment before answering her. "After I finished my introduction on the first day" Kani said. "One of my classmates asked me to say something in Italian, and I did. I said it in English exactly what I had said in Italian, and I thought I heard the teacher make some snarky remarks...Until you came to get us yesterday, I was going to call mama to come get me. She said until lunch...but we didn't make it to lunch. I'm pretty sure no one in my class likes me, including the teacher"

Kailani, listening from the other room got out of bed . It made sense to her now why Kalani felt like he was being pushed aside, and his feelings disregarded. "Kani," she said coming into the kitchen.

She hugged him. "Piccola mia, mi dispiace tanto che ti sia successo. Non aver mai paura di dirmi cosa hai in mente, i tuoi sentimenti contano. Metti da parte me o Horatio o anche Calleigh e raccontaci i tuoi sentimenti, non sarai mai nei guai per come ti senti, sempre" ("My little one, I'm so sorry that happened to you. Never be afraid to tell me what is on your mind, your feelings matter. Just pull me or Horatio or even Calleigh aside and tell us your feelings, you will never be in trouble for how you are feeling, ever")

"Va bene mamma," he answered. "Inizierò a parlare con uno di voi dei miei sentimenti. Non sono felice a scuola e non sono felice per il bambino, vorrei che fossimo solo noi quattro. Mi piace la nostra famiglia così com'è, non voglio che quell'equilibrio si rompa in ogni caso... mi dispiace mamma ma non mi interessa o non voglio questo bambino" ("Okay mama. I will start talking to one of you about my feelings. I'm not happy at school and I'm not happy about the baby, I wish it was just us four. I like our family just the way it is, I don't want that balance disrupted in anyway...I'm sorry mama but I don't care or want this baby")

Calleigh didn't understand much Italian, but she understood the frustration in Kalani's voice when he spoke about the baby. She stayed out of it and went back to cooking.

Kailani on the other hand, heard his concerns loud and clear, it brought her to tears. She felt rooted. She wanted to go back to the bedroom and cry, but her feet wouldn't move. She covered her face with her hands and crouched down.

She had been crouched there for a few minutes, crying when Horatio walked in the door. He went to her side, concerned. "Kai," he said softly. "Kai, what's wrong?" He picked her up and carried her to the living room, sitting on the couch with her in his lap.

Kalani picked up the flowers and other things Horatio had laid down for Kai to surprise her. He handed the flowers to Calleigh to put in a vase. She did so, then set them on the dining room table, before returning to her cooking.

Kailani had shut herself down after hearing what Kalani had to say. She was in her own head about everything, and she couldn't pull herself out. Horatio shook her gently. "Kai..."

She finally looked at him but didn't answer him. Kai couldn't tell him what she heard. She couldn't tell him what Kalani said.

"You should go tell Horatio what you told your mom," Calleigh told him. "If she completely shuts down then they won't be able to go on their date tomorrow"

Kalani nodded and went to the living room. "Horatio...it's my fault mama shut down," he told him. "I told her I didn't want the baby, And, I don't want to go to school anymore, I'm being bullied..I want to be homeschooled" he said his feelings of hurt and betrayal coming back to the surface. "I like our family of four! I don't want to be a big brother, I'll be pushed aside and ignored..." Tears were rolling down his face.

Horatio didn't know what to say. He set Kailani down on the couch and went over to Kalani and took his hand. He took Kalani to his room and set him on the bed. "Is that why, your mom shut down?" Horatio asked. "Because you expressed how you felt to her"

Kani nodded. "I didn't mean to hurt her feelings," he said. "I just wanted her to know how I felt. I like it just being us. I don't want an odd number in our family...it was different with Nonna, it felt right. But, now, it feels wrong"

"How does it feel wrong?" Horatio asked. "Why is this a bad thing?"

"Is this how you felt when your brother was born?" Kalani asked him. "I don't like it; I feel like you two aren't listening to me"

Horatio looked at him. "What happened yesterday?" he asked. "Did something happen to make you not want to go back to school today?"

"I was asked to speak Italian," Kalani said. "And when I did I thought I heard the teacher make a snarky remark about it."

Horatio listened. "School gets out soon," he told Kani. "How about you and I go to the school to get Isabella, and we'll talk to the teacher? Because tomorrow I'm taking you both to school. And then I will be taking your mom out on a date"

"Okay," Kani said. "I didn't mean to upset mama. I'm just thinking of her and her past. I remembered it from a conversation we had; she said her past wasn't the best"

"That's correct," Horatio said. "When I got your mom out of the hospital yesterday, she was deep in thought. Maybe she was already thinking about it before you said anything"

"Maybe," Kani said. "I know I would be a big brother and I would help with the baby, but right now it just doesn't feel that way. It just feels like I'm being pushed out of the picture, and I'm having a problem with that"

While the boys were talking, Calleigh put the veggies in and let them cook. Then she then went into the living room and sat with Kai. "Kai," Calleigh said. "It's okay to be scared about this one. The kids, Kani especially, will be great. He'll be a great big brother. Don't worry so much" she told her.

Kai looked at Calleigh. "Hmm?" she asked. "Did you say something, Calleigh? I'm sorry, I didn't hear what you said"

"Are you okay?" Calleigh asked, worried. "You seem to be a bit off today"

"No, I'm not actually," Kai said. "It started yesterday when I fell. Then when Horatio picked me up from the hospital, I was deep in thought. I'm scared, Calleigh. I'm scared Horatio's going to leave. I've had such a bad past, I'm stuck in my head about it...I want it to work out with Horatio, and the kids and the baby, but..I don't know if it will."

Calleigh pulled her friend close and hugged her. "It's going to be okay," Calleigh told her. "We're all here for you. Alexx, Natalia, Ryan, H, the kids, me, Valera...We're all going to be here for you, no matter what, you're our friend, mother, wife...your parents are watching over you right now, too" she told her softly.

Kailani hugged her before laying her head in her best friend's lap. "You and H are truly my best friends," she told Calleigh. "I don't know what I would do without you guys" She took a deep breath, and smelled the soup. "That smells amazing Calleigh. Thank you...you don't know what this means to me"

Calleigh was rubbing Kailani's hair, trying to soothe her. "You're more than welcome," she said. "I'll do whatever I can to help you"

Kailani went back to sleep for a bit. Being in her head was really getting to her already. The last time she had started getting this way, her mom had been there to talk her out of it. Her mom had always been her voice of reason. Kai's overthinking everything had started when her parents divorced. Kailani blamed herself, even though both parents told her that, it wasn't her fault, they just weren't in love anymore. They would still love each other, but they weren't in love with each other.

Horatio looked at his watch. It was 2:30. School got out in 15 minutes. "Alright Kani," he said. "We should get going if we are to pick up Isabella; we have 15 minutes to get up to the school"

Kani nodded. He hugged Horatio, then went to tell Kai they were leaving- but he found her asleep on the couch. "Calleigh," Kani said softly. "When mama wakes up, will you let her know Horatio and I are going to get Bella, please? We're going to talk to my teacher too about yesterday"

"Of course, Kani," Calleigh said smiling at him as Horatio came out of the bedroom to see his wife sleeping on her lap. "Go get your shoes on"

Kani nodded and went to the door. Horatio went over to Calleigh. "Calleigh," he said softly. "What's wrong?"

She told him quickly what Kai had said and how she wasn't listening. "She did that to me yesterday, too. It's like she couldn't even hear me. I'll look into getting her help. We'll be back soon. And the soup smells great"

Calleigh smiled. "Thanks," she said. "My mama taught me how to make it, I thought it could help Kai. It's a big enough pot for her to have some, and I could freeze some too"

"That would be helpful," Horatio said. "Thank you. We owe you a lot Calleigh"

"It's not a problem Horatio," Calleigh said still petting Kai's hair. "I'm happy to help, you know that"

Horatio went and got his shoes before leaving with Kalani to get Isabella. "I'm nervous Horatio," Kani said as they walked to school. "What if the teacher isn't sorry? What if no one likes me?"

Horatio looked down at Kani. "Kani," he said. "I know it's scary to start a new school. But I believe you have the power inside of you to make it better."

"What do you mean?" Kani asked. "How can I make it better, I'm just a kid"

"Yes, you are," Horatio said. "But, you can ask them to stop if you feel they aren't treating you right. Use your words not your fists. Fists are always a last resort. And if you can't find an adult to listen to you, call me or Calleigh, and we'll come help you"

"Why not mama?" Kani asked as they walked. "Is it because mama's worried and if I call her it will make her worry more?"

"That's exactly right," Horatio said. "Your mom is a former CSI, but when her babies are in trouble she won't act like a CSI. She'll act like a mama bear, protecting her cubs. You and Bella are her cubs"

Meanwhile back at the house, as she slept in Calleigh's lap, Kailani dreamt of her parents. "Mama...daddy," she said crying. "Mama, I'm scared..you're not here to get me out of my head"

"Kai, questo bambino che stai portando..." her mom said. ("Kai, this baby you're carrying...")

"Che mamma, che c'è?" Kailani asked. ("What mama, what is it?")

"Kailani," her dad said "Kēia pēpē...E kala mai e ka meli, he inoa kou no kāu kaikamahine?" (""This baby...I'm sorry honey, you have a name for your daughter?"

Kailani felt herself shaking. "Pehea ka lōʻihi?" Kai asked. "He kaikamahine? He kaikamahine kaʻu? Pāpā..." ("How long? A-a daughter? I would've had a daughter? Daddy...")

"ʻAʻole maopopo iaʻu iā Kaia," he said. "Akā..koke" ("I don't know exactly Kaia, but..soon")

"ʻAʻole au i haʻi aku iā Horatio i ka inoa," Kai said. "ʻO Noelani kona inoa. Manaʻo wau he kaikamahine kā māua, ʻaʻole wau i noʻonoʻo i ka inoa keikikāne" ("I hadn't even told Horatio the name...her name would have been Noelani. I was positive we were having a girl, I never thought about a boy name")

"Noelani, he inoa maikaʻi." he smirked as he said more "Noelani, it's a good name. Manaʻo wau inā paha ua like ʻo ia me Horatio me kou ʻano Italia ("Noelani, it's a good name. I wonder if she would have been like Horatio with your Italian attitude")

She saw her mom smack her dad's arm. "Cosa ti fa pensare che avrebbe un atteggiamento italiano?" her mom asked her dad. "Perché non si sarebbe comportata come suo padre?" ("What makes you think she would have an Italian attitude? Why wouldn't she have acted like her father?")

Kailani smiled. "We don't know what she would've been like, but it would've been nice to meet her. I'll keep her safe until then. I miss you both so much...I wish you were both here. You would love Horatio, and Calleigh too..she's my best friend"

Her dad touched her hair. "We already love Horatio," he said "We're so happy you are with him. He's good, he'll protect you, you'll protect each other. The twins are getting so big, tell them their kupuna kāne (grandpa) loves them so much"

"I will," she said. "Thank you daddy, mama. I love and miss you guys so much; take care of Noelani for me." She watched them disappear, then she sat up crying harder.

Calleigh watched her friend. "Kai," she said softly. "Are you okay? What happened?"

Kai took a moment to compose herself. "My parents," she said. "I saw them in a dream..this baby...this baby wasn't meant to be. Daddy told me this baby is a girl. Her name would have been Noelani Calleigh Caine"

Calleigh hugged her. "That's a beautiful name, Kai," Calleigh said rubbing her back. "But this is a conversation for you, Horatio, and the kids to have."

"Yes, I know," she said. "But, I wanted you to know when you go back to work you can let Alexx know, she knows I'm pregnant too. I wanted this baby with Horatio so bad..." Kai was still hugging Calleigh with tears rolling down her cheeks.

The boys arrived at the school just seconds before the bell rang to dismiss everyone. They were walking in as the bell rang. Isabella rang to the front of the school hoping to see Calleigh but saw her twin and Horatio instead. "Aww," Isabella said. "Calleigh promised she would pick me up"

Horatio touched the top of her head. "I'm sorry," Horatio said. "I'll be walking you home today and walking you both to school tomorrow. Calleigh is with your mama, whom when we left was asleep in Calleigh's lap"

"Is mama okay?" Isabella asked. "Is everything okay?"

"We'll talk about that later with your mama," he said. "But right now I need to talk to Kani's teacher"

No sooner did the words come out of his mouth the teacher was up front. She looked very surprised to see Kalani with Horatio. "Are you Lieutenant Caine?" she asked.

"I am," Horatio said. "I'm here on Kalani's behalf to talk to you about yesterday"

"What's to talk about?" she asked. "He did wrong and I let him know about it"

This upset Isabella, who like her mother could barely keep her mouth shut. "Excuse me," Isabella said. "If he was asked to do something, and he did it, why would he be in trouble?"

"Bella, shut up!" Kalani hissed. "Don't get me in more trouble"

The teacher looked at Isabella. "You'd be wise to listen to your brother," she told her. "I already don't like him, and I certainly don't like you"

"Ma'am, what is your name?" Horatio asked.

As they were talking, the principal had been listening to this conversation. She remembered parents complaining about Ms. Nelson, disliking some of the kids in her class.

"Excuse me, Lieutenant," the principal said. "The teacher's name is Ms. Nelson. I'm Mrs. Garcia, the principal...would the four of you come into my office, please? We have things to talk about"

"What did I do?" Isabella asked. "I just stood up for my brother"

Mrs. Garcia smiled. "I know," she said. "I'm so happy you did, come on"

They followed Mrs. Garcia into the office, and twins sat by the door to let the adults talk. Isabella started her homework, and Kalani helped her. The adults talked about Ms. Nelson's attitude towards Kalani, and how it could be fixed.

"Isabella, Kalani," Mrs. Garcia said. "Could you two please go sit in the hall while the three of us talk please"

"Sure" they said in unison packing up Isabella's homework. Kalani held her hand up to her helping Isabella up. "Thank you" Isabella said.

"You're welcome," Kalani said, smiling at her. "Let's go, tell me about your teacher."

"Miss Jones is amazing," she said. "She's so much fun! I taught my class an Italian word that means a lot to both of us"

"Oh yeah?" Kalani asked. "Let me guess- Nonna?"

"Yes!" Bella said happily. "Everyone really liked that one"

"Yeah," he said. "It didn't go that well in my class. I told them who I was and it was nice to meet them in Italian, and I got in trouble for it"

As they sat out in the hall talking another fourth grade teacher saw them. "Hey you two," he said softly. "Do your parents know you're here?"

"Yes sir," Kalani said. "Our stepdad is talking to Mrs. Garcia and Ms. Nelson"

He sat with them. "Oh?" he asked. "How come?"

"Yesterday," Kalani said. "When, I was in Ms. Nelson's class, my classmate asked me to say something in Italian, and I did..Ms. Nelson didn't like it"

"Can you tell me what you said?" the teacher asked. "Was it bad?"

"No, it wasn't" Kalani said. "È un piacere conoscervi tutti, mi chiamo Kalani Delko" ("It's nice to meet you all, my name is Kalani Delko")

"Hajimemashite, karani deruko, watashinonamaeha Suzuki wa toridesu" the teacher responded. ("It's nice to meet you Kalani Delko, my name is Hatori Suzuki")

Both twins looked at him, very impressed; the principal listened in. "I'm sorry to interrupt," Mrs. Garcia said. "But, Mr. Suzuki, do you have room in your class for one more student? It seems to me like you and Kalani are getting along quite nicely"

"Actually," he said. "Mrs. Garcia, I would love to have this young man in my class. I do have room for one more, and my room is right next to Miss Jones'"

"Great!" Mrs. Garcia said. "I will let Lieutenant Caine know that we got everything worked out. Kalani, we can't wait to see you back tomorrow. Lieutenant Caine said you stayed home to help your mom, who isn't feeling good"

"Yes ma'am," Kalani said. "She's pregnant and she wasn't feeling good this morning, so I wanted to take care of her. I will be here tomorrow, and I'm sure Isabella will walk me to class"

"You know it!" Bella said. "I will help you like coming to school"

They hugged and the two educators smiled. "Great," Mr. Suzuki said. "I will see you in the morning"

"Yes!" Kalani said. "I will be here!" He was very excited to go home and tell his mom what had happened

Horatio came out into the hallway and saw the new teacher. "I'm Lieutenant Caine," he said. "I'm the twins stepdad. Here is my card if you ever need to get a hold of me for anything about Kalani, or Isabella"

The teacher stood up and bowed. "Nice to meet you Lieutenant Caine," he said. "I'm Suzuki, Hatori. I'm from Japan and I moved to Miami a few years ago. Your son will fit in nicely in my class, I can't wait for him to introduce himself to the rest of his classmates"

"Horatio!" Kani said. "I can't wait to come to school tomorrow!! I can't wait to tell mama!!"

Horatio smiled at him and saw the excitement in his eyes. "Yes," Horatio said. "Let's go home and tell your mom all about it! It was nice to meet you Mr. Suzuki, and thank you Mrs. Garcia"

"Have a great night," Mrs. Garcia told them. "I will change it tonight so that Kalani will go into Mr. Suzuki's class tomorrow"

Horatio nodded, and took both kids by the hand. He walked them home, he could feel Kalani's excitement, and was glad to have a happier outcome for the boy. Kai, he thought, would be happy too.

"Thanks Horatio!" Kalani said happily. "I was worried about going back to school, but now I have a new teacher who is awesome and can speak another language like I can, and he seems super cool!!"

Isabella smiled, she loved seeing her brother happy. "Yeah," Bella said. "And to think I'll be next door instead of across the hall"

He smiled at her. "Yeah!" he said happily. "I'm so happy!!"

Once they reached the house Kalani broke out into a run. He ran in, took off his shoes and ran to the living room. "Mama!!" Kalani said, jumping up and down happily.

Kailani watched him smiling. "What?" she asked smiling. "I can tell you got some big news, what is it?"

"I should go," Calleigh said. "The soup should be ready soon"

"No!" Kalani said. "Stay, I would like you to hear my news!!!"

Horatio had come in with Bella, and heard Kalani telling Calleigh to stay for the big news. They both came into the living room. Isabella hugged her mom. "Mmm," she said, inhaling the aromas. "Mama, the soup smells amazing!"

"Thanks baby girl," Kailani said. "But that wasn't me, that was all Calleigh and Kalani"

"Ooh," she said. "That's smells amazing! Good job Kani, you're going to be a better cook than I am"

Kailani smiled. She knew Isabella wasn't lying about that. "So," Kailani said. "What's this big news that Kani is busting at the seams to tell me?"

"Well," Horatio started. "Kani and I went to get Bella, who was disappointed that a certain pretty blonde didn't pick her up from school"

Calleigh blushed at Horatio's compliment. That was a very rare thing he did. Calleigh laughed. "Yeah," Calleigh said. "I kinda had a Kai in my lap sleeping"

"That's what Horatio said," Isabella said. "But that's okay, because, me being the big sister had to stand up for my little brother...again"

"Wait," Kai said. "What happened? What's going on?"

Horatio quickly explained everything, as he was telling her what happened, she was zoning out and got lost in thought.

"Mama," Kalani said touching her hand. "Mama...hello?"

The two CSIs looked at each other and they both sighed. They both knew this was going to get worse before it got better.

"What's going on?" Isabella asked. "She's never done this before. Is mama okay?"

Horatio sighed. "I think," Horatio said, "I'm going to take her in to get her evaluated tonight, Calleigh, would you mind staying with the kids?"

"I don't mind," Calleigh said. "What's your big news, Kani?"

Horatio picked up Kai, who was completely zoned out by this point, and carried her to the car.

Kani sighed. This was big news he wanted to share with his mom. He looked up at Calleigh. "I'm sorry," Kani said softly. "I wanted to tell mama too." He went to the twins' shared room.

Calleigh understood, and she felt for the twins. Kani especially- he had some really big news, but Kailani had zoned out so completely, that it killed the mood for him. He didn't understand what was wrong with his mom, and he thought it was his fault.

As Horatio put her in the car she snapped out of it. "H...? What's going on?" she asked. "Why am I in the car?"

"Kai," Horatio said. "You zoned out while Kani was telling you something important. If this keeps up, I'm going to have to take you to get checked out"

Kailani nodded she felt horrible. "Poor Kani," she said. "I'll go back inside and talk to him" She got out of the car and squeezed Horatio's hand before going back into the house.

Isabella and Calleigh looked over as they heard the door opening. Kai went straight to the twins' room and knocked. "Kani," she said softly. "Can I come in?"

Kani opened the door and looked up at her. He had been crying. She took his hand and led him to his bed, sitting on it, then pulled him into her lap. Kailani didn't care if he was eight years old, he was still her baby boy. They sat cuddling for a while. "I'm sorry," she told him. "I don't know what's going on with me, but please be patient, Kani. What was your news? I'm ready to hear about it now"

"Are you sure?" he asked, worried "I don't want you zoning on me again"

"I will do my best Kani," she said. "It comes and goes..I can't control it. So what's your big news?"

He sat across from her. "I got switched to a new class!!" he said a little bit excited. "My first teacher, she didn't like me. Doesn't like anyone who speaks other languages like I can. But, I was talking to a different teacher today, and he's from Japan! Mama he is so cool! I get to go to his class tomorrow, and I can't wait!"

"That's wonderful Kani!!" Kailani said happily. "I'm so glad it worked out. Is Bella's class close to yours?"

"Yes!" Kani said. "It's right next door instead of across the hall! This teacher is super nice"

"That's great, baby!!" Kailani said happily, hugging him. "And Horatio talked to the principal?"

"Yes, he did," he said. "And to my first teacher. I met Mr. Suzuki in the hall while talking with Bella. He's so nice, mama; you would like him. I can't pronounce what he said, but if it's anything like what I said, I believe he said it was nice to meet me."

Kailani was smiling, listening to Kalani telling her everything. Meanwhile in the living room Horatio had come in from outside. He looked over at Calleigh.

"Is everything okay Horatio?" Calleigh asked. "Kai came in pretty quickly"

"I'm worried about her," Horatio said. "She snapped out of it before I could put her seatbelt on...I don't know what's going on but it started yesterday..." he said

"I'm sure there is an explanation for it," Calleigh said. "But if you still need me to watch the kids.."

"No," Horatio said. "She seems to be alright for now, and tomorrow is a big day. Bella, let's get you in the bath, so you can get ready for bed"

"Sure," Bella said heading towards the bathroom. "I'll make a sandwich to go with my soup when I get out!"

"I really should go," Calleigh said, watching Bella head for her bath. "I hope Kai tells you what she needs to tell you"

Horatio looked at her, a little confused. "What?" he asked. "What does she need to tell me?"

"It's not for me to say," Calleigh said. "I shouldn't have brought it up; I'm sorry"

Calleigh went to the door and got her shoes on. "I'm sorry again," she said. "Let her tell you; it's pretty big...she may want to wait until the kids are in bed to tell you"

Horatio nodded, and held the door open for her. "I will call Mr. Wolfe in the morning," Horatio said. "Before I take the kids to school. I'll have him with me and I'll have you and Frank at PD. Keep everyone quiet that knows about Eric and Kai; we don't want to spook Eric into thinking we know what he's doing"

She nodded. "I'll call you as soon as he leaves PD, or if he doesn't show up," Calleigh said. "Either way, you will know. I hope he doesn't do anything stupid, I told him not to hurt one hair on her head. After tomorrow, we will see. Goodnight Horatio, give Kai a hug for me"

Horatio bid her goodnight, and locked up behind her. He heard Isabella in the tub, before going to get Kai and Kani for dinner. "Excuse me," he said smiling. "But I do believe that Calleigh's wonderful dinner is ready. Bella will join us shortly when she is out of the tub. Then Kani can get in after dinner. We have a little celebration for tonight: the starting of a new class"

"Yeah!" Kani said happily, as he went to him to hug him. "Thanks again Horatio, you're amazing! Best dad ever!"

Kani went to the kitchen to wait on Horatio and his mom; Horatio pulled Kai close to hug her, and gave her a kiss on the lips. "Shall we?" Horatio asked holding his hand out to her.

"Yes," Kai said smiling like a fool. "We shall enjoy this food that Calleigh so graciously bestowed upon us!"

Horatio smiled. This was the old Kai. The one he fell in love with years ago...the one who, just a few short years ago, a member of his CSI team. Eric indicated he just wanted to "talk to" Kai. But something nagged at the back of Horatio's brain -- it seemed fishy, and he wondered exactly what Eric was up to. Luckily, Kailani didn't seem to suspect anything untoward. And Horatio planned to keep it that way. There was no point upsetting or scaring her; she had enough on her mind already. indicated he just wanted to "talk to" Kai. But something nagged at the back of Horatio's brain -- it seemed fishy, and he wondered exactly what Eric was up to. Luckily, Kailani didn't seem to suspect anything untoward. And Horatio planned to keep it that way. There was no point upsetting or scaring her; she had enough on her mind already.

After dinner, and after both the kids had their baths, Kai got Kani and Bella into bed and tucked them in. "I love you both so much," she said. "Sweet dreams my babies; I'll see you tomorrow. Remember Horatio is taking you to school"

"Night, mama," Isabella said. "Love you"

"Goodnight, mama," Kalani said. "I love you and the rest of our family so much" He rolled over and fell asleep

Kai went back to the bedroom and got into her pajamas. She didn't know how to tell Horatio about her dream. Kai was afraid of his reaction. "H...I have something to tell you. Just let me say it okay?"

Horatio nodded and took her hand. "Okay Kai," he said. "I'm listening"

She took a deep breath. "H," she started. "I had a dream today. I saw mama and daddy...they told me about the baby; they said I'm not going to be able to keep the baby. I'm going to lose the baby. We were going to have a daughter; I even had a name picked out for her"

"What was the name?" Horatio asked. "What beautiful name did you pick out for her?"

"Noelani Calleigh Caine" Kai said. "Calleigh since she is my best friend"

"That is a cute name," Horatio said smiling sadly. "I bet it would've fit her well. We will get through this together. I will always be here for you Kai; I'm not leaving"

Kai hugged him tight. "I'm so scared," she said. "I wanted this baby with you so badly"

Horatio took her face in his hands gently. "Kai," he said. "The fact that you and I are together is more than enough for me. Bella, Kani- I've known them their whole life. I want nothing more than to be the best stepdad to them, and to be the best husband for you. I'm not leaving you. I know you wanted a baby with me, and it's sad to think we may not have her, but...the fact that she would've been so loved is more than enough for me"

Kai started to cry; her emotions were all over the place. One minute she was happy, the next sad. Kai knew that the one thing she didn't regret from her relationship with Eric, were the two beautiful kids he given her. She had hoped in her heart that Eric would understand her past, but he hadn't. Horatio, however... Horatio understood everything she had been through. So many times Kai had called him and relied on him heavily. In a way she, felt guilty she hadn't gotten together with Horatio before Eric. She thought it would've been funny to see twins, one with red hair, and one with blonde or brown hair.

Horatio laid her down in bed gently and held her close to him. "I will protect you," Horatio told her. "Always and forever"

Kai nodded, and started to fall asleep with her head on his chest. "I love you, Horatio," she said softly. "Forever and always"

Horatio kissed the top of her head. She was now completely out for the night; before long he fell asleep himself.

The next morning Horatio got up, showered and got the twins up. He made them bacon and eggs with a half of a bagel each for breakfast, along with some orange juice.

Kalani came bouncing out of the bedroom so happy. "Good morning," he chirped. "Breakfast smells amazing!"

"Thank you," Horatio said. "Where's Bella? Dragging behind again?"

"Always," he said. "I know I can't yell, because mama is still sleeping. Is she okay? Something still feels off with her"

Isabella came out of the bathroom, looking very sleepy. "Morning," Bella said. "Am I too young to start drinking coffee?"

"Yes," Horatio said. "You are, and I'm sure Kai would not approve of me giving her daughter coffee. Here have some orange juice. Late night?"

She nodded. "I heard mama crying," she said. "Is mama okay? I mean is she really okay?"

"That's not for me to say," he told them. "That is your mom's news to tell, not mine. But- we will discuss it after school. It's time to eat, and get ready to go. Remember I'm walking you both to school today"

The twins ate, both knowing Horatio was right, they had to wait for their mom to tell them the news. It wasn't his place. They finished up and got ready for school, as Horatio cleaned up the kitchen and dishes. He turned to see both of them at the door getting their shoes on. "Are you two ready?" he asked, picking up the phone to call Ryan.

"Yeah," Ryan said. "Wolfe here. What's up H?"

"Mr. Wolfe," Horatio said. "Please meet me at the school, I'm walking the twins there right now"

"You got it, H," Ryan said. "I'm on the way. The school by your house, right?"

"Yes," Horatio said. "By the house; I will meet you there."

Ryan arrived at the school just as Horatio was walking in with the twins. "H!" Ryan called to him. "What's going on? Is this about...?"

Horatio nodded and turned to the twins. "We're going to hang out here for a little bit," he told them. "If you need me or Mr. Wolfe, you let your teachers know. Mr. Suzuki has my card. Bella, give this to Miss Jones, please"

Bella took the card. "Okay Horatio!" Bella said. "See you after school?"

"It might be Calleigh," Horatio said. "Remember, I'm taking your mom out on a date today, so I may not make it back in time."

"Have fun!" Kalani said. "See ya Mr. Wolfe! Come on Bella, I don't wanna be late!!"

"I'm coming, Kani!" she said. "Dang don't pull my arm out of its socket!"

Horatio chuckled softly, watching the twins go to class, and then went to talk to Mrs. Garcia about why there were two CSIs at the school.

Meanwhile, back at the house, Kailani got up. It was the first morning she didn't feel like her insides were tumbling around. She went into the bathroom to start her morning routine. Today was her date with Horatio, so she wore her hair up. She put on her dad's bracelet, the one she wore only on special occasions. It was a corded bracelet, with a clip that made it easy to slip on and quick to take off. Her father had made it out of cord and Koa wood, with two flowers. Yellow Hibiscus, that is found in Hawaii and a rose, which is New York's state flower. She dressed in a light blue sun dress, one that she knew would match Horatio's eyes.

Kai got her grocery list together- as she nibbled on a bagel, then texted Horatio. "Good morning H! I'm making my grocery list and heading to the store. Thank you for walking the kids to school. I can't wait to meet you for lunch; my stomach is being nice. I love you so much -Kai" She finished her bagel and grabbed the grocery list, then headed out to the grocery store, unaware of who would soon meet her there.

Over at PD, Eric looked at the clock, then found Calleigh. "Hey Cal," Eric said. "Do you know where Ryan and H are? It's not like H not to be here."

"They are probably at a crime scene," Calleigh said, knowing where Horatio was. "You know Horatio, always getting here early and leaving late"

He chuckled. "Yeah," he said. "That's H for ya..hey have you talked to Lani lately?"

"No Eric," she said, lying to him. "I haven't seen Kai lately. Why do you ask?"

"Well," Eric said, "when you came home yesterday, you smelled like her cooking...I just thought you went to see her. I haven't seen her or the kids but just a handful of times."

"Eric," Calleigh said. "Did it ever occur to you that maybe, when you almost fought Horatio, maybe Kai decided then and there not to have anything to do with you? Why do you want to jeopardize your job with MDPD, just for a few words with her?"

"I can't stop thinking about her, Cal," he said. "I know I messed up big time with her, but I need her in my life. I want my kids in my life. Have you seen them? Have they asked about me?"

Calleigh was getting frustrated with Eric. She walked away towards the lab. When she got to the door, Natalia grabbed her and pulled her inside the lab. "Whoa!" Calleigh said, not expecting to be pulled. "Natalia, what is going on?"

Natalia dropped her voice so Eric wouldn't hear her. "Eric told me what he was going to do here in a bit," Natalia said to Calleigh. "He's going to the grocery store to look for Kailani. He said- he'd find her even if he had to search all of the different stores for her, just to "talk" to her about getting back together. You should let Horatio know!"

"If I know Eric," she said. "He will do exactly what you just said." She thought for a minute. "Okay, so I already have a plan with Horatio. When Eric leaves, I need to call Horatio and let him know that he left"

Down the hall, Eric grabbed his kit and left PD. Calleigh called Horatio as soon as she saw Eric get into his car- his personal vehicle, not the PD Hummer.

"Talk to me," Horatio said, picking up. "What's going on ma'am?"

"Horatio," Calleigh said. "Eric left in his car; he didn't take the Hummer"

While they were talking, Kailani was stepping out of the house to go grocery shopping. She was starting to feel light pressure, like when she had her period, but thought nothing of it. She headed to the grocery store. Kai had quite the list; she had made herself a note to get Bella's frozen ravioli. She parked the car when she got to the store and grabbed a cart. By then the cramping had stopped, which made it easier to shop.

By this time, Eric was just pulling up to the store. He didn't recognize Kai's car. 'Is this Lani's new car? It's nice,' he thought to himself. He sat watching, waiting for her to come back out of the store.

When Kai was done with her shopping, she went to the car and put the groceries in the back. Eric got out of the passenger side, closing the door quietly, and came up behind Kai, covering her mouth. "Lani," he said calmly. "We need to talk..we're going to take your car, and you're going to drive to where I tell you"

Kailani nodded. She was scared, she wasn't going to lie. This was a side of Eric she had never seen before, and she didn't like it. Kai knew she couldn't call Horatio without Eric knowing and stopping her. Luckily, the store manager saw what was going on. He called 911, watching Eric push Kai into the car. He told the 911 operator the license plate number of the car and described what he had seen. As he watched, he saw Kai drop her bracelet onto the asphalt.

Kai got into the driver's seat, then Eric went around and got into the passenger side. "Where are we going?" Kai asked so she knew where to go. She had a feeling the store manager was watching--she hoped so, anyway- but didn't say anything.

"To the Hilton Miami, downtown," Eric said. "I just want to talk to you Lani, you've been so distant with me lately"

Kai knew where that was, and headed towards the hotel. "Eric," Kai asked. "Why are you doing this? You know I'm with H now; we're married"

Inside the store the manager watched the car leave the parking lot, and told 911 the direction they were heading in

The 911 dispatcher called Horatio. "Lieutenant Caine," she said. "I have the manager of the grocery store your wife was just at on the phone. He said he saw your wife and a Latino male get into her car. Then they left. He isn't sure where they were going, but he saw your wife drop a bracelet in the parking lot, a corded bracelet."

"That bracelet has special meaning to her," Hortatio said "Thank you." He hung up and yelled for Ryan. "Mr. Wolfe.." Horatio ran out of the school, and got into the Hummer Ryan had brought from PD. Ryan had no choice but to give the keys to Horatio and let him drive. "Ryan, call Calleigh, tell her what is going on"

Ryan called Calleigh and told her everything that had just happened, from the school to where they were going.

Meanwhile, in the car with Eric, Kailani gripped the steering wheel tightly. She winced in pain; instead of heeding Eric's directions, she pulled into Dade General. "Eric," she said softly. "I'm pregnant, and I think I'm losing the baby"

"Wait, what?" Eric asked as Kailani passed out in the car. "Lani...LANI!!!" Eric turned off the ignition and took the keys, getting out. He ran around to the driver's side and lifted her out of the car, locking the car behind them. He rushed her into the ER. "I need help!!" he called out.

Doctors and nurses came running as quickly as they could to assist. "Sir, what's going on?" the doctor asked.

"Kailani Brown" Eric said. "Pregnant, not sure how many weeks. She just told me she was pregnant, and that she was losing the baby. She's not my wife but I was with her when she pulled into the parking lot and passed out"

They took her into a room, forcing Eric to wait outside. They took her out of her dress and got her into a gown, as quickly as they could. "Doctor," the nurse said. "We don't have a Kailani Brown in the system. But we have a Kailani Caine, that was here a couple of days ago after a fall at home"

"Okay. Look up her next of kin-her husband maybe. Find a phone number and call him" he told her. "Tell him she is here, and she is being treated"

The nurse nodded. She went to a computer terminal at the nurse's station, looked up Kailani's records, and called Horatio.

"Horatio, here" he said, answering.

"Lieutenant Caine," the nurse said. "My name is Nurse Lovejoy. I'm at Dade General Hospital, and we have your wife Kailani here. She's experiencing some unexplained blood loss, and we're working on getting her check out right now. Can you confirm- Is Kailani pregnant?"

"Yes," Horatio said. "She is. Who brought her in?"

The nurse explained, describing the man had been with Kailani when she arrived. "Who is he?" she asked.

"Her ex-husband," he told her. "Erik Delko, one of my CSIs"

"He's the one that brought her in bleeding" the nurse said

"I'm on the way right now," Horatio said. "Don't let Mr. Delko leave"

Horatio drove towards Dade General where his wife was. At the moment he was none too happy with Eric. "He," Horatio mumbled to himself, "Had better not have hurt her"

"You okay H?" Ryan asked. "You look really upset"

"Mr. Wolfe," Horatio said, "Eric may have hurt Kai...and we're about to go find out for ourselves," he said, pulling into the parking lot at the hospital. He parked next to Kai's car and looked in, seeing the blood on the seat. His stomach sank, and he swallowed hard. "The baby..."

Horatio ran as quickly as he could into the hospital with Ryan hot on his heels. He saw Eric. "Mr. Wolfe sit on him," Horatio said going into the room and looked at Eric. "Ass"

Ryan cuffed Eric. "What the hell were you thinking man?" Ryan asked escorting him to the Hummer. Then he called Calleigh.

"Duquesne," Calleigh said. "Ryan?"

"Yeah, Calleigh," Ryan said. "I'm sitting on Eric right now. We're at Dade Gen., I'm sure H is going to want you to pick up the kids"

"Is it Kai?" she asked. "Is she alright?"

"Let me go, Wolfe!" Eric said sitting uncomfortably in the Hummer. "I didn't hurt her, I swear it"

"What were you going to do Delko?" Ryan asked. "Why is she here?"

"I was just going to talk to her!" Eric said. "Come on man, let me out of these cuffs! I didn't do anything! She's pregnant, she drove here and passed out, I just took her in!"

Ryan stared him down. "You know I can't do that," he said. "When H says to sit on someone, I do as I'm told. You're stupid for doing what you did"

Meanwhile back at PD, Calleigh looked at her watch. It was just now noon; she would have to leave within the hour to get back to the house to get the kids. But first she needed the keys. "Hey, Natalia," Calleigh said. "I have to pick up the kids, but I have to get the keys from Horatio first., Kai is in the hospital. Ryan said she was bleeding. I wonder if she lost the baby.."

"Wait Kai was pregnant?" Natalia asked. "Why didn't I know about this?"

"She didn't tell a lot of people," Calleigh said. "It's not that she doesn't trust you, Natalia, but she knows it would've gotten back to Eric. That's why not everyone knew. And Horatio's been through so much already with Eric since Kai and the kids came back to town a couple of months ago; she doesn't need more of a headache"

"Is that why everyone was hush hush around Eric?" Natalia asked. "Whenever he came in, everyone got quiet"

Alexx came up from the morgue. "Hey," Alexx said. "Has anyone seen Horatio or Ryan today?"

"I'm about to go to Dade General to see Horatio," Calleigh said. "Want to come with me? I can explain along the way"

"Oh baby," Alexx said. "If you are about to leave me stranded with no way home, I'll follow you in my car. See you later, Natalia."

Natalia waved to the two women and went back to work shaking her head. She knew Eric was going to suffer Horatio's wrath.

Back at the hospital, Horatio talked to the nurse that had called him about Kai and what was going on. "I know she was in here a couple days ago," the nurse said "Is that when she found out she was pregnant?"

"Yes," Horatio said. "It is. How long before I can see her?"

"About twenty minutes," the nurse told him. "Go do what you need to do until then"

Horatio took a deep breath to steady his nerves before going out to the Hummer. "Mr. Wolfe," Horatio said. "Let me know when it's been twenty minutes"

"Sure H," Ryan said walking away from the Hummer. He saw Calleigh and Alexx pull up next to the hummer. Ryan went over to Calleigh. "Now may not be the best time to talk to H," he told her

Alexx ran into the ER. "Doctor Alexx Woods," Alexx said. "I need information on a Kailani Caine"

"I'm sorry we can only give information to the next of kin which is her husband," Nurse Lovejoy said looking at the list. "Oh, wait there is one for a Calleigh Duquesne"

"I'll be right back" Alexx said running out to the parking lot.

At the Hummer, Horatio glared at Eric. "What," he asked, "where you doing with Kai? I told you to leave her alone. She didn't want to talk to you. Leave her alone, or I'll arrest you and put a restraining order on you."

"H," Eric said. "I didn't hurt her, honest. I asked her to go to a hotel so I could talk to her, but she didn't go. She came here instead, but she passed out after telling me she was pregnant and that she might be losing the baby. So I took her straight in. I love her H, I always will...I messed up with her, H. I can't and won't accept you two being married; I know, somewhere deep down inside she still loves me."

"You are hereby suspended until further notice," Horatio told Eric. He turned to Ryan. "Effective immediately, Mr. Wolfe...escort Eric back to PD, please, and put him in the interrogation room until I get back"

"You got it H," Ryan said putting Eric in the back. "See you soon"

Inside the hospital, Alexx walked up to Calleigh. "Calleigh baby," she said coming up to her. "I need you or Horatio to tell the nurse to give me information about Kailani"

"Alexx," Horatio said softly. "Kai..Kai lost the baby. Or at least I believe she did; the driver's seat of the car is covered in blood"

"What..?" "Alexx said not believing her ears. "No..you were so excited..h-how did she know she was losing it?"

"She had a dream," Calleigh said. " She dreamt about her parents, and in the dream they told her she was going to lose the baby. She was very upset by it yesterday"

"I knew it!!" Eric said, as Ryan was leaving to take Eric back to PD. "I knew you saw her!! You lied!!"

"Ladies," Horatio said. "Let's go see our girl. See if she's awake and ready for visitors"

"I can't," Calleigh said. "I just came to get the house keys so I can pick up the kids. Do you want me to have the car towed back to the house?"

"No," Horatio said. "I'll need a car to bring her home in. I'll see if I can get some towels for the seat until I can get it cleaned up"

"Alright," Calleigh said holding her hand out for the house keys. "I'll keep it quiet until you two get home"

"Thank you" He said handing her the keys and picking up the phone to call Ryan.

Ryan had just pulled into PD when his phone rang. "Wolfe" Ryan said.

"Mr. Wolfe," Horatio said. "Are you and Eric back at PD? If you are, I need you to put him in a holding cell until I can get there" Ryan said. "We just got here; I'll make sure he's in a holding cell overnight" He then got out of the car and got Eric out as well. "Come on, Delko"

"You can't be serious right now," Eric said. "Wolfe, get me outta these cuffs, this is embarrassing"

"No can do," Ryan said. "I have to follow H's orders, and tonight you are in lock up"

Ryan escorted Delko into PD and put him in a holding cell per Horatio's orders.

There was a buzz around PD about Eric being in lock up for the night

Back at the hospital, Calleigh climbed into the car and headed towards the school as Horatio and Alexx headed into the hospital.

"Kailani Caine please," Horatio said. "I am her husband Horatio Caine, and my Crime Scene Doctor. Dr. Alexx Woods"

"Yes sir," Nurse Lovejoy said. "I talked to you on the phone, we got her into a room, she's resting. The doctor would like to keep her overnight, but if you take her home we would need you to sign a waiver saying you went against medical advice. Are we to put Dr. Woods on her emergency contacts?"

"I would," Horatio said. "There maybe a time I'm out in the field along with Calleigh, Alexx would the the only other one to come to her until I could"

She led them into the room. "I'm sorry Lieutenant," the nurse told him. "But the baby did not survive"

"Is, Kai okay?" he asked. "Just tell me she's okay, I will probably take her home tonight."

"She's fine," Nurse Lovejoy said. "But she's going to be upset for a bit and her body will think she's still pregnant, but she's not"

She nodded and let the two go into Kai's room where she was sleeping. To him, she looked like an angel, one he couldn't lose.

He went over and took her hand, sitting down. "Kai, baby," Horatio said softly kissing her cheek. "Alexx and I are here, Calleigh when to get the kids from school"

She slowly opened her eyes and looked up at him. "H," Kai said softly. "The baby...she's gone, please tell Kani this isn't his fault, he had nothing to do with me losing the baby."

He climbed onto the bed with her and held her, while rubbing her hair. "I know," he said softly. "We're going to be okay. I'll take care of you Kai, I'll leave Calleigh in charge. And I'll make sure she talks to Kani."

Kai clung to him and cried. "It's not fair," she said. "I just wanted something from both of us! I don't have that anymore, I ruined...no Eric ruined it all by showing up. H, he put his hand over my mouth so I couldn't scream...I was so scared. Oh! The groceries!! I have to take them home, they'll go bad..."

"Kai," Horatio said. "Kai, it's okay...I'll take care of it for you. Don't worry. And as for Eric he's in lock up tonight. Calleigh's got the kids for now; I'll take them kids to school tomorrow and pick them up. Do you want me to take you home?"

"No," Kai said. "No, home is a danger to me right now. I'm not in the best mental space right now H, it's better I stay here..."

Horatio heard what she had to say loud and clear. "Alright, Kai," he said sadly. "I'll take care of the kids; maybe Alexx can help too?"

Kai had forgotten Alexx was there. "Yeah," she said. "Take Alexx with you to the house, let her meet the twins...I don't want to see them right now, I'm too upset and it'll just make them upset too."

Horatio kissed her softly. "Alright, Kai" he said. "I'll leave you here until you're ready to come home. I love you so much."

Kai kissed him back. "I'm sorry, H," she said. "I want to be able to be there for you and the kids, and I can't do that if I'm getting stuck in my head and crying over everything. I need to get better, for me, you and the twins...I know I ask a lot of Calleigh, but I forget I have Alexx and Natalia to help out too. Maybe ask Natalia to come over too? I want both Alexx and Natalia to get to know the kids, I know Natalia is good with them, and Alexx is a mom too, so...I might not be home for a while"

Horatio nodded. "I want you healthy and safe," he told her. "I heard what you were saying. You'll probably be here a couple of more days and we're going to start back up on your therapy"

"I would like that," Kai said. "I guess seeing and dealing with Eric brought up trauma I thought I had gotten over. Please don't let the twins eat a lot of junk food while I'm gone, okay? Maybe pizza tonight? I don't know"

"Kai, baby," Alexx said. "I will make sure they have a home cooked meal- maybe homemade hamburgers, a starch and a veggie. I got you. I'll make sure Horatio eats too. You relax and concentrate on you tonight, okay? I'll come check in with you before work tomorrow."

"Thanks Alexx," Kai said. "I would like that very much. And H, go to work and deal with Eric, please. I don't want to see him, I don't want to hear from him, and I don't want him around the twins. I'm sound enough in my mind to know that for a fact"

Horatio nodded. "Can I record you saying that?" he asked. "So Eric can hear it for himself? That way I can't get called a liar when I tell him that" He then took out his phone and hit record

"Absolutely," Kai said. "Eric, I don't want to see you, I don't want to hear from you, and I don't want you around the twins...they are happier without you. And I am too."

Horatio stopped recording, and kissed her. "I love you," he said. "We will get through this, I will help you get through this. Maybe we'll start going for walks, after the kids get home from school and before dinner"

"I would like that," she said. "I would like that very much, H. I'm so happy we're married, I'm so very happy you're my best friend and husband; I couldn't ask for anyone better"

Horatio blushed lightly. "I couldn't ask for anything better either," Horatio told her. "You are a great wife, a terrific mother, and my very best friend. I'm so glad we met." He kissed her softly. "I love you, so much"

They all said their good-byes and Horatio went to talk to the doctor about a psych eval. He told the doctor about Kai's history with suicide attempts, how it was just once but they were being cautious this time around. He and the doctor talked. Horatio asked for a couple of towels for the car. The doctor agreed to move Kai upstairs for a couple of days and to restart her therapy

Horatio took the towels. Then he and Alexx left the ER together, as they talked about what had happened in the room. Once they got to their cars, Horatio touched Alexx's elbow. "Alexx," he said. "Follow me to the house, please. That way you can meet the kids" He then called Natalia.

"Boa Vista," Natalia said, answering. "What's wrong Horatio?"

"Miss Boa Vista," Horatio said. "Please, come to the house. There are two children I would like to reintroduce you to."

"I'm on my way, Horatio," she said. "Hey, how's Kai?"

"We'll talk about that later," Horatio said. "Right now, I need to get home to the twins"

Meanwhile Calleigh was at the school, picking up the kids. "Kani," Calleigh called. "Bella, over here!" she said waving to them. They ran over to her.

"Hey," Bella said. "Horatio said you were picking us up today. Is mama home?"

"No," Calleigh said. "She's not. I think Horatio wants to talk to you guys about something important"

"Okay," they said in unison. "Is the baby okay?" Isabella asked.

"You'll have to wait for Horatio," Calleigh said. "I can't tell you anything without his permission"

Kalani had a feeling, but didn't say anything; he didn't want to be in trouble. "Are you going to stay with us?" Kani asked. "Until Horatio gets home?"

"Yes, I am," Calleigh said. "You know I would do anything for you guys right? Your mom and Horatio, too"

The twins nodded. "We know," they said. "Kani, what is wrong with you?" Isabella asked seeing his frown.

Kani shook his head; he didn't want to talk right now. "I just want to go home," he said. "And start on my homework"

Isabella shrugged as they got in the car. "Whatever," she said. "You are such a mama's boy"

Kani stayed quiet and looked down, as Calleigh did a quick drive to the house. She pulled into the driveway at the same time as Horatio. Seconds later, Alexx arrived and parked behind Kai's car.

Horatio parked and got out, then went to help Alexx out. Kalani got out and helped Calleigh then his sister. Isabella thanked him, and went to see Horatio.

"Hey," Horatio told the twins. "Let's go in the house and get a snack. I need to talk to you both about something very important"

"We don't usually have snacks before dinner," Isabella said. "What's going on?"

Horatio opened the door for the kids and let them in first, as Natalia pulled up and parked by the sidewalk. She got out. "What's going on?" she asked.

"Ladies," Horatio said. "Once we get inside, everything will be explained. What would you guys like for dinner?"

"Horatio," Alexx interrupted. "I'll make dinner, you focus on the kids. I promise it will be good" Alexx went in, took her shoes off, and went into the kitchen to see that Kai had already left some hamburger out to defrost. Alexx looked for spaghetti noodles but didn't see any.

"What are you looking for?" Isabella asked Alexx

"Where does your mama keep the spaghetti noodles?" Alexx asked. "I was going to make that for you guys"

"Mama makes her own noodles," Kani said. "She doesn't buy the ones from the store; she always says fresh is best"

"Smart mama you have there," Alexx said. "I guess I could learn a thing or two about cooking from her!" She started making some hamburger and fries instead.

"Alright, you two," Horatio said from the living room. It was going to be hard for him to explain to the kids why their mom wasn't home. "Come to the living room please, we have to talk"

The twins looked at each other, and both of their stomachs sank. "Is mama okay?" Isabella asked. "I mean really okay?"

"No," Horatio said. "She's not. She's still in the hospital, and she lost the baby. She may not be home for a couple of days yet. You've met Alexx, and this is Natalia...you haven't seen her since you were two, before you left. And Alexx will come over and help cook for you guys while your mom is recovering"

"H," Kani said. "Is it my fault mom lost the baby?"

Calleigh looked at him and hugged him close. "Kani," Calleigh said. "This is not your fault, I promise you this is not your fault"

"Really?" he asked. "It feels like it is because I told her I didn't want her to have a baby"

Horatio looked at him. "Kani," he said softly. "This really isn't your fault. Your mom told me to tell you so. Sometimes things like this just happen, no one can predict something like this happening"

Kani nodded, but he was still upset. "When can mama come home?" he asked.

"In a couple of days," Horatio said. "She chose to stay in the hospital for a little while. Before you two were born and she was married to Eric..." He took a deep breath. Horatio didn't want to share this with the kids, but he felt they had to know.

"What happened?" Isabella asked. "What did Eric do?"

"It wasn't Eric's fault," he said. "Your mother, before she was pregnant with you two, she tried to take her life with pills...she was unsuccessful, but given the fact that she tried to do it once, we were worried she might try again. So she chose to stay to get help. Your mom wants to get better for the three of us. We'll still move, and once we do, she'll have something good to focus her attention on"

"On my days off," Natalia said, "I can come over and keep your mom company, help with the packing"

"Me too, Horatio" Alexx said from the kitchen. "I'll come help her out too, anything for that sweet girl"

"Count me in," Calleigh said. "I'm here a lot anyway, so I'll still pick the kids up from school. And when you're both busy, I'll stay with Kai as well, so she won't be alone"

"Ladies and gentlemen do we have a plan?" Horatio asked.

Everyone agreed. "We're still going to worry about mom," Isabella said. "But this is a good plan, because I know you three ladies are really there for her"

"We love your mom," Natalia said. "We would do anything for her and Horatio. Right, Calleigh? Alexx?"

"Oh yes," Alexx said. "We would"

"Definitely," Calleigh said. "We're all going to pitch in to help; we love you guys so much."

"I like that plan," Kalani said. "Thanks H, and everyone"

Horatio smiled at him. "You're welcome, Kani"

"Hey everyone," Alexx said. "Dinner is ready. Wash your hands and come eat"

That night, the kids enjoyed the dinner Alexx made for them and raved about it to her. She laughed. She had known they would love it, and she decided to start planning some more meals for them.

A couple of days after Kai had her psych eval, she was released from the hospital. Horatio told the doctor what the plan at home was for Kai and he agreed.

Kai continued with her therapy appointments, to help her deal with both the trauma of losing the baby, and the trauma of dealing with Eric.

Eric was back to being a tow truck driver. He was suspended from being a CSI until Horatio felt it was safe for him to come back. Safe for Eric, that is--for the time being, Horatio didn't trust himself not to retaliate, he was still to angry about Eric's interference with Kailani.

Three weeks later Horatio got a call from the real estate agent with much-needed good news: the house was theirs. Everything had been fixed, and they were scheduled for a final walk through and to sign the papers. He couldn't wait to get home to tell Kai the good news. It would be something positive for her to focus on.

Kai had been home resting a lot while the kids were at school, letting her body recover from losing the baby. On most days she would watch a couple of hours of TV, while she sat and sorted out clothes to be part of an upcoming yard sale.

Since the day Kai came home from the hospital, she was never left alone. And she always came home to a clean house, thanks to Horatio, the twins, and Natalia. Today was the first day she was home alone, as Calleigh, Alexx, and Natalia had to work. She was a little leary about being home by herself, but she was doing okay on her own.

As Kai was going through her clothes, and the kids', Horatio called her. Kai smiled and answered the phone. "Well hello there handsome," Kai said. "To what do I owe the honor of your call today?"

Horatio smiled softly as he listened to her answer the phone. "Hello beautiful," he said. "I'm calling to check in on you and to tell you some good news"

Kai rolled her eyes, but she loved that he did check in on her. "I'm doing okay today, H," she told him. "I'm in the bedroom watching TV and sorting through my clothes and the twins clothes for the yard sale. I have dinner going. I'm okay. Thank you for checking in on me. So what's the news?"

"You remember about a month ago we looked at a house?" Horatio asked. "The one we made an offer on, just a few houses down?"

"Yes," she said. "What about it? Did we get it? Please tell me we got it!"

He chuckled, listening to her get excited and then worked up. "Alright, Kai," Horatio said. "I got the call today. Everything's been approved. We get to do a final walk through and sign the papers, so yes. Very soon we'll be moving into our new house"

Kailani's mind was racing, thinking of all the things she would need to do. "That's great!" Kai said. "When you come home, can you bring home some boxes, packing tape and a marker? I need to set up for the yard sale soon. And maybe also, some wine for us?"

"Of course I can Kai," Horatio said. "You know, I still owe you a date, too"

"I know," she said softly. "H...I don't think I can do a date right now...or even drive. The car is a reminder of everything that happened with Eric, and the baby...I just can't." She hung up quickly and went to the kitchen. Her mind was racing and she wasn't thinking straight.

Horatio heard the line disconnect. "Kai..? KAI?!" he yelled into the phone. "Damn you, Eric!" he mumbled as he ran out of PD.

"Hey H," Ryan said following him. "What's going on?"

"Not now Mr. Wolfe," Horatio said getting into the Hummer. Backing out quickly, he sped towards home.

Horatio parked along the curb, killed the engine, and unlocked the door. He rush past the kitchen, looking for Kailani. It didn't take him long to clear the rooms, bathrooms, living room, and yards. Then he went back into the kitchen and found her there, curled up into a ball, her defense mechanism against the world.

She was crying. Horatio couched down next to her and checked her over carefully. He looked around the room- to his relief, there was nothing in her hands or on the floor, nothing to suggest she had to hurt herself in any way. "Kai," he said softly. "Kai, it's Horatio. Are you okay?" He sat down and touched her hand gently. "Come here, baby."

She looked up at him and crawled into his lap; he held her and leaned back against the wall. I'm afraid, Horatio," Kai said. "I'm afraid to get into the car..I'm okay with being a passenger but not driving..I'm scared to run into Eric. I don't want to be afraid..I want the fear to go away; please, make it go away."

Horatio didn't know how to take the pain away. He just held her close to him rubbing her back to comfort her. He called Calleigh to see if she could pick up the kids, as he was tied up.

"This is Calleigh," Calleigh answered. "What's up Horatio? Is everything okay with Kai?"

"Calleigh," he said. "Calleigh, can you pick up the kids? I have Kai in my lap and she's having a problem right. She hung up on me earlier, so I came home. I found her in the corner of the dining room curled up shaking like a leaf."

"Sure," she said. "I can pick the kids up from school, I'll leave now. Do you want me to bring them home?"

"Yes, please," Horatio told her. "Maybe you and Kai can go for a little walk? Get her out of the house for a little bit."

"Sure can," Calleigh said. "Be there soon" She hung up and left PD to get the kids.

On the kitchen floor, Horatio comforted Kai. "Kai," he said softly. "Let's get you ready to go on a walk with Calleigh. Maybe you can take her and the kids to the new house. Tomorrow morning we'll drop the kids off for school, and go sign the papers do a final walk through and get the keys. Then we'll set up for the yard sale, and start moving things over"

Kailani looked up at him and nodded. "Okay," she said. "I love you. You're so amazing to me. After dinner, and the kids go to bed, I just want to cuddle, H. I have my appointment tomorrow."

"Do you want me to pick you up to take you there?" Horatio asked. "Or do you want to take a cab?"

"I don't know," Kai told him. "I just don't know." She got up off of his lap and went to get ready, she really wasn't feeling good about going anywhere. But maybe this would be good for her.

Calleigh picked up the kids and brought them home. Horatio could hear them as they were coming in the door. "I thought mama was picking us up" Isabella said.

"I was," Kailani said coming out of the bedroom. "But- I had a mini meltdown"

Kalani hugged her. "It's okay mama," he said. "I have something for you"

"Oh?" Kai asked. "What is it? Calleigh, hold on, I just have to get my shoes on. I have a surprise for you two as well"

Calleigh nodded, wondering what Kalani had to give Kai.

Kalani put his backpack down and handed his mom a card he made during art class. "Here you go, mama," Kani said. "Open it!"

Kailani took it and opened it, seeing the letter from the teacher. She got worried for a minute, before reading the card from her son. "Mama, you are the best mom there is. Thank you for being our mom," it read. Remember you were blessed with super powers. Please use those powers to find your smile again. Love Kani"

Kai started to cry again. She didn't know how to use her "super powers" to be happy again, but she knew she had to try. She then looked at the note from the teacher. It said. "Dear Mrs. Caine: You son Kalani is an absolute joy to have in class! He recently told me you weren't feeling well. He seemed really upset about something, but I haven't pushed him to talk to me about it. I do hope you are feeling better a little everyday! If not, I have an old Japanese remedy I'm sure will work! Or at least my mother swears by it. Best regards, Mr. Suzuki"

Kai's emotions were all over the place. The touching card from her son and the sweet letter from the teacher, it opened the flood gate of tears. Horatio took her in his arms and rubbed her back. "It's alright, Kai," Horatio said gently. "Come on, let's go for that walk, the five of us"

She nodded and dried her eyes, then got her shoes on, as did Horatio. They all walked out of the house, and Horatio locked up behind them. Horatio looked over at the Hummer; he knew after the walk he would have to take that back to work. Kai took his hand.

"Are you two ready for the good news?" Kai asked the twins. "I know you'll be over the moon"

"What is it mama?" Isabella asked. "Are we moving?"

"What's the fun in me telling you?!" Kai laughed as they made their way to the new house.

Kalani remembered it, from the first time they had gone to look at it. He turned looking at Kai and Horatio. "Is this ours?!" he asked excitedly.

"Congratulations!!" Kai said happily hugging the twins. "You are both correct! H and I have a couple of things to do tomorrow! We'll come get you after our errands, and we can all start moving things over to the new house! We'll leave the extra bedroom for Calleigh, in case she ever needs a place to crash"

Calleigh laughed, but knew that Kai meant what she said. She would have to talk to Kai and Horatio later about the offer. Or maybe just Horatio; given Kai's history with Eric, Horatio seemed like the better choice.

"I can't believe we get to move in!!" Isabella said happily. "Oh!! I got an idea!!"

"What's that?" Kai asked, looking at her. "What's your idea? I wonder if it's the same as my idea"

"When we move some of the stuff over tomorrow," Isabella said, "why don't we all have a camp out in the new living room?"
|
"Great idea!!" Kai said. "I was thinking the same thing!! I'll have to get some new blankets and stuff, but yes! We can certainly do that!"

Horatio smiled at this. Isabella's idea had brought out the smile he hadn't seen yet that day. "I believe," Horatio said, "that is a wonderful idea. We'll get all the stuff tomorrow- and I know your mother she'll want to wash everything first"

"Yes, I will!" Kai said. "Come on, you two," she said running towards the backyard to show the kids.

"Horatio," Calleigh said. "What's going on with Kai? It seems like she's on a roller coaster"

"That's because," Horatio said, "she is on a roller coaster. Eric screwed her up so bad, that all the previous trauma she had from him before came back. And this time it wasn't just Eric, it was also the loss of our daughter that has her upset and stressed"

Calleigh nodded. "Eric is still mad that you suspended him," she said. "He went back to work as a tow truck driver. He's real mad"

"Not nearly, as mad as I am," Horatio said. "If I let him come back to work right now, I would end up in jail and I can't do that to Kai"

Kailani and the kids were running around the backyard, laughing and having a good time, before she sat down and pulled the twins into her lap. "Tomorrow my babies," Kai said. "Tomorrow this will be our house. We can start fresh here with Horatio. It's a little more of a walk to school, but we can do it if we leave ten minutes earlier"

"Can you drive us, mama?" Kani asked. "The teachers think you're a myth"

Kai laughed softly. "I'm not a myth," she said. "Tomorrow Horatio and I are driving you to school, then I have to go to my therapy appointment. On our way back we'll stop and get the stuff for our new house. We should be done with everything before you get out of school; we'll be there to pick you up if we are cutting it close"

Isabella partially knew why Kailani had avoided her brother's question; she knew it had to do with the baby. "Kani," she said softly. "Mama will drive when she's ready. We can't force her"

Kani nodded. He understood, but he just wanted his mom happy and to be who she was. "Tomorrow, though!" he said. "Tomorrow we move!!"

Horatio and Calleigh were talking between themselves, keeping an eye out for Kai and the kids, while they discussed what had happened between Eric and Kai. After awhile Kai and the kids finally came out from the backyard. Horatio and Calleigh both noticed Kai was really quiet, as were the twins. The two CSIs looked at each other, and started to walk with them

"Kai," Horatio said handing her his house keys. "I need to take the Hummer back. I'll be right back okay?"

Kai nodded not saying much and took his keys. She let everyone into the house, and went to the kitchen to serve up dinner. There was only one plate and it was for Calleigh.

"Aren't you going to eat?" Calleigh asked Kai. "It looks and smells amazing!"

"No," Kai said. "I'm not hungry. I'm too upset to eat. The twins are not eating either; I'm not going to force them"

Calleigh nodded, and started to eat. As Calleigh was eating, Horatio pulled up to PD to return the Hummer for the night. As he got out of the Hummer, he ran into Ryan.

"Hey H," Ryan said. "What's going on? Is everything okay?"

"It is now," Horatio said. "What can I do for you, Mr. Wolfe?"

"Eric came by while you were gone," Ryan said. "He wants to know when he can have his job back"

"As of right now," Horatio told Ryan. "he's not coming back. Did Eric tell you he tried to kidnap Kai? I'm still not convinced he didn't have something to do with her losing the baby- Kai is having nightmares, and she's scared. Worse than I've ever seen her"

"What do you mean?" Ryan asked. "How is she worse?"

"She barely eats," Horatio said. "She refuses to drive. Kai doesn't want to go out; she's afraid she'll run into Eric again"

As if on cue, Eric came strolling into PD. "Hey H," Eric said. "When do I get to come back? You told me once that I was too good to be driving tow trucks. I still am, I miss it here; I want my job back."

Horatio walked away from Eric without a word. He went to turn in the Hummer keys, so he could head home to Kai and the kids. The drive back to the house was going to be a long one. He had a feeling the walk from the new house to the current house was going to be a somber one. Horatio noticed the kids nor Kai were talking, he was guessing it had to do with what they talked about in the backyard.

Eric watched Horatio walk away from him, and it upset him more. "Horatio!!" he called after him. "Answer my question! When can I come back to work?" His hands were balled into fists ready to strike.

Horatio turned slightly. "When I can trust myself around you, Eric," Horatio said. "As of right now, I cannot trust you not to be around MY wife. And because of that I cannot trust myself not to physically harm you. You can come back to work when I say you can. Now if you'll excuse me-" Horatio walked away from Eric. He had problems to fix at home before the end of the night.

"Don't you walk away from me H!" Eric yelled. "You know I deserve to come back to work! This is where I belong! You don't belong with Lani!! I do! You took my family from me! Lani, my kids! If anyone shouldn't trust one around the other, it's me not trusting you!"

"Eric," Ryan said, stepping in to intervene. "Don't do this! You're going to get yourself fired- and you won't be able to come back at all. Ever."

"Shut up Wolfe!" he snarled. "You're nothing without me on the team! I'll go against you in court if I have to! Fire me, and CSI will go down!"

"I doubt we'll go down, Eric," Horatio said. "But you've earned yourself more time as a tow truck driver. Now have a nice night," he said walking out of PD

Frank Tripp witnessed the whole showdown between Horatio and Eric. "Delko, don't be an idiot," Frank said. "Leave Horatio and his family alone."

"They aren't his family, Tripp!!" Eric said. "They're mine! He took them from me! I'm going to take something from them!" he said. He suddenly leapt forward and grabbed Ryan's gun out of it's holster and went after Horatio.

"We're going to need backup!" Ryan yelled as he ran after Eric.

At home, Kai suddenly looked up, startled. "Calleigh," she said getting up. "Please stay and watch the kids. I'll be right back." She got her shoes on and grabbed her keys. She knew something was wrong with Horatio- she could feel it. Without thinking about it she got in the car and drove to PD.

Meanwhile, at PD, Eric had Ryan's gun pointed at Horatio. "H," he said. "I'll kill you, then I'll have what I want"

"If you kill me," Horatio said. "you'll have two deaths, on your hands, because Kai. If you kill me, you'll be killing her too. She'll fall into another spell of depression, and this time she might not make it out. And even in death, she won't let you have the kids. She'd find a way to make sure you didn't get them."

Kai pulled up to the PD, and saw the gun pointed at Horatio. She quickly parked, turned off the car and ran to Horatio. "NO!!!" she said running towards Horatio.

Eric jumped and pointed the gun at her instead. "Lani, I'm sorry" he said as he shot the gun. "If I can't have you, nobody can." The bullet hit her in the shoulder, and she went down.

She yelped as the bullet hit her shoulder, passing straight through it.

Frank and Ryan were just getting outside when they saw Eric fire the gun. "Delko!" Frank shouted, grabbing him. "You are hereby under arrest for the attempted murder of Kailani Caine"

"I wasn't aiming for her" Eric lied fighting Frank. "I was aiming for Horatio. Lani was just stupid enough to get in the way"

Both Ryan and Frank wrestled him to the ground and got the cuffs on him and put him, then put him in a holding cell until morning.

Meanwhile, Lani lay on the concrete in a pool of blood, gasping for breath "H..." she said to Horatio, looking up at him before passing out from the blood loss.

Horatio scrambled for his phone and called 911. "This is Lieutenant Horatio Caine" he said. "I'm in front of Miami Dade PD. I need an ambulance as quickly as possible. The victim is my wife Kailani Caine. She is rapidly losing blood from a gunshot wound to the shoulder; it is a through and through"

Within minutes an ambulance showed up. The medics stabilized Kai and got the bleeding under control, then got her onto the gurney. As they loaded her into the ambulance, Horatio noticed her car there. He was very surprised; he smiled softly as he got in with her.

They drove quickly to get to Dade General. Horatio told the doctors what had happened and they rushed her back to the OR.

Horatio called Callie. "Duquesne," Calleigh answered. "What's up Horatio? Is everything okay?"

"No, it's not," Horatio said. "Kai is in surgery"

"What?!" she asked. "What do you mean she's in surgery? What happened?"

The twins heard Calleigh talking on the phone with H, and slowly came out of their room. They had no idea their mom had even left the house.

Horatio quickly filled Calleigh in on everything that happened, from the time he left the house to return the Hummer to the moment Kai showed up at PD. He told her about the shot and it's aftermath, and Eric's arrest.

Calleigh listened carefully. Out of the corner of her eyes she saw the twins creep out their room. She motioned for them to come over to her. "When do you think you two will be home?"

"In the morning, maybe" Horatio said. "I'm staying tonight with her in the hospital. Please make sure the twins try to eat and get a bath, and help them get their homework done. Please ma'am"

"I have two kids here," Calleigh said. "who are very worried and would really like to talk to you." She then put the call on speaker so the twins could talk to Horatio.

"What happened to mama?" Kani asked. "Did Eric hurt her again?"

"Yes," he said. "He did buddy, but I'm here and I'm taking care of your mom. Don't worry too much. We'll see you two soon okay? Hopefully tomorrow. We love you both very much Kani, Bella. Sweet dreams."

"I hate him!" Kani said. "I freaking hate Eric!!"

Calleigh looked at him. She knew this was the final straw for Kani with Eric. "You don't mean that, Kani," she said.

"Like hell I don't!" he said. "Every time mom and Horatio are happy, he shows up! Every time he tries to take mom from Horatio or Horatio from mom, she has a set back, more trauma! I wish he wasn't our biological father!!" He ran off to the bedroom and threw himself on the bed, crying.

Calleigh sighed and turned back to the phone. "You take care of Kai," she told Horatio. "We'll deal with Kani. See you tomorrow, hopefully." Calleigh hung up, then went with Isabella went into the bedroom. "Kani?" she asked

Isabella was just as mad at Eric as Kani was, but was handling it a little more calmly. "Kani," Bella said softly. "We're not allowed to swear, I know you're really upset by what Eric did, and I don't blame you. I am too. Calleigh, is there a way we can force him to give up his parental rights to us?"

"We'll talk to your parents about it as soon as we can," Calleigh said. "But for now let's get you fed, and bathed, so we can get you to school tomorrow"

"The three of us will talk to mama and dad? Promise?" Kani asked. He looked a little surprised to hear himself call Horatio dad. But he felt it right, and he smiled. "Horatio is a great dad; I'm so glad he married mama."

Isabella smiled. "Yeah!" Bella said happily. "Horatio is a great dad! And..oh! After we eat and take our baths, can we make cards for them?"

"That's an excellent idea!" Calleigh said happily. "Now let's get you two fed. Your mama left us some really good food. Come on"

The kids were still worried, but felt a little bit better. They went to eat dinner. Afterwards Kani took a bath first, giving Isabella a chance to make her two cards. She left them on the table for Kai and Horatio. Isabella then took her bath, giving Kani time to make his cards.

Calleigh, eager to do something to help Kai, made a few yard sale signs. She was angry at Eric. There was no way he was getting job back, not now. She knew they just lost a good CSI. 'You're so stupid Eric,' she thought to herself. 'If you had just left Horatio and Kai alone, and accepted their marriage, you could still have kept seeing Kai and the kids'

After she got the kids into bed, Calleigh cleaned up the kitchen and put everything away. Then she went to the living room and watched some tv before going to sleep. As she got settled in on the couch her phone rang. She knew the number, and declined the call. It was a good idea, Calleigh decided to distance herself from Eric. She decided that in the morning after she got the kids off to school, she would call Natalia and Alexx to fill them in on what had happened that day.

Back at the hospital, Kai had come out of surgery and had just been moved to her room. The doctor came by to talk to Horatio. "We're keeping her here tonight," he said. "Her therapist will come down and talk to her in the morning. If she continues to be stable and there are no complication, she can got home after that. But no heavy lifting, lots of rest, and no driving."

"She's been having a bit of trouble getting comfortable with the idea of driving again," Horatio said. "But that's because of what happened with her ex-husband, recently."

"Would you like me to call her therapist?" the doctor asked. "He's still here"

"Yes," Horatio said. "Thank you. You know my wife is a stubborn woman"

The doctor made a call. "Okay. He's on his way down," he told Horatio. "And yes, I know she's stubborn, but she'll still need to listen to doctor's orders. Horatio, there is a chance she may not have full use of her shoulder, there could be permanent nerve and joint damage."

Horatio listened to what he was saying. "So," Horatio said. "What you're saying is, is for me to tell my Italian wife that there's a chance she might never be able to cook again?" He laughed. "You tell her that when she wakes up; let's see how fast a string of Italian curses and curse words come out of her mouth."

The therapist heard talk of Italian curses and chuckled. "That wife of yours is scary," the therapist told Horatio. "What's going on, Horatio? What happened to Kailani?"

Horatio told him everything that happened since Kailani's last visit to the hospital, and how without thinking about it she had gotten in the car and drove to protect him from Eric.

"That's great that she drove," he said. "But, if you don't mind a little advice-I think the best thing would be to sell the car and get another one, something that doesn't remind her of tragedy and trauma. We'll get her into physical therapy for her shoulder. Hopefully it'll help; we'll see what we can do for her. But even if it does help, it's going to be awhile before she can cook. Unless she can do it one-handed."

Horatio winced hearing that. "She isn't going to like hearing that." Horatio said. She takes pride in her cooking. What about driving?"

"That might be a no go for right now as well" the doctor said. "We will have to see, luckily it was a through and through, but...only time will tell, Horatio"

Horatio nodded and sighed. 'Her world had already been rocked enough.' he thought to himself. ' With the kidnapping and losing the baby, let's really turn it upside down by telling her she can't cook or drive.' He was angry, because he knew how much all this was going to upset her. As soon as she heard the news, he knew what was going to come out of her mouth: a stream of Italian curse words, and probably some curses as well.

The kiss woke Kai, and she slowly opened her eyes. "H..." she said grunting a bit in pain. "The twins...we have to go!" She tried to sit up but Horatio wouldn't let her.

"No Kai," Horatio told her. " Calm down. You just had surgery. Calleigh is with the kids. I'm staying here with you tonight, and Calleigh is going to take the kids to school tomorrow. We'll do everything just like we planned, but with one exception."

"What's the one exception?" she asked hoping it was nothing bad

"You'll be the supervisor of the move," he said. "You are on restricted duty, Captain, until the doctor's orders say otherwise."

She narrowed her eyes and let a string of Italian cuss words out, just as Horatio had predicted she would. Kai had already had numerous reasons to be pissed with Eric. And this was one more, one more thing wrong with her. Kai started to cry.

"I hate you Eric Delko," Kai said, her words full of anger and hate. "I will hate you for the rest of my natural life. And if we meet in the next one I hope I don't remember you. From this day forward, you are dead to me and the kids"

Horatio knew it was a justified hurt, and she had every right to feel it. He knew she didn't hate many people- but, her abusive ex was one, now Eric was the second, and the guy that tried to kill her mom was the third. She hated the horrible situations she had been put in.

She knew, thought, that she had to overcome her traumatic past. Not only for Horatio and the kids, but for herself. It was time to heal and grow and move forward.
Starting therapy tomorrow, with Horatio by her side, would be the first step on her long road to recovery. She lay her head on the pillow, holding Horatio's hand, and vowed to herself that tomorrow she would work on forgetting Eric and her past, and moving on with her life.

Kai closed her eyes holding his hand, but didn't sleep. She was glad he was there with her and that Calleigh was taking care of the kids. If this went to court would she have to be there to see Eric? Would the kids have to see him? How upset were the kids at Eric? These questions plagued her mind that night and into the morning.

Horatio saw she wasn't sleeping because there was something on her mind. "Kai," Horatio said softly. "Talk to me, tell me how you are feeling."

She sighed opening her eyes. "A lot of things," Kai said. "I feel a lot of things. Pain in my shoulder from being shot and the surgery, being told not to do something...is this going to court? If it is are the kids and I going to see and deal with Eric? I just can't anymore. Every time I'm happy, something happens, and there's another setback. The last one was just last month"

"We will see, Kai," he said. "I will see what they have to say about it. Frank will probably want a statement from you, but we can record it if you want. One from me, and one from Ryan. Frank will probably give one of his own as well. I will do my best to keep you out of the courtroom. I'll let the state know that seeing Eric is traumatic for you."

Kai nodded. "What, no..how are the kids?" she asked. "I bet Kalani is really upset with him, Isabella too"

"Kani swore," Horatio said. "But it was justified. Nothing too major, just the word 'hell'."

Kai looked at him. "Mama and I always told them," Kai said. "You get one free pass when you are young. Once you are out on your own, you can do as you please; just don't bring it into the house when you come visit. Now he has used his one free pass"

"That's a good rule," Horatio said. "Isabella stayed quiet when he did swear. I bet we have a surprise waiting at home for us tomorrow" he told her

She nodded. "Yes," she said. "My kids are good at making me cry. I think there are going to be about four to six cards four of them from the kids probably. And if there is more, they will come from Calleigh, along with everyone in the lab and PD. Then the kids will talk their teachers into making cards for us. So I would say...no more than ten but no less than eight."

Kai and Horatio talked through the night both fell asleep around 5 a.m. for a few hours. The doctor woke them up around 9:30. "Mrs. Caine," he said. "You have a 10 a.m. appointment. Everything looks good. I'll give Horatio the scripts you have, and after your appointment you can go home and relax. Then I'll see you in a couple of weeks to see how you're healing."

"Great, thank you," Kai said getting out of bed. Getting on her feet made her realize she was going to need help with a lot of things. "H..." she said, reaching out for him.

He saw that she needed a hand in the bathroom. "Come on," he said helping her into the bathroom. "I think dresses will be your best friend while you're healing up"

Kai sighed softly as she used the bathroom. "I didn't ask for this, H," she said, near tears. "I didn't ask to be shot, but I had a bad feeling about you. I knew something was happening to you," she said, finishing up. She washed her one hand, then brushed her teeth.

"Let's get to your appointment," Horatio said. "And then you can cry it out there; I'll be right there with you. Then we'll go sign the papers, and I'll take you home and let you rest while I do the walk through. And before long the kids should be home with Calleigh"

Kai nodded. "Oh!" she exclaimed, remembering. "What are we going to do for dinner?" She asked making sure her clothes were pulled up and adjusted, with Horatio's help.

"We'll talk to Calleigh about it when we get home," he said, grabbing her purse. He then escorted Kai to her appointment.

While Horatio and Kai were sitting and talking to her therapist, Calleigh was at work. Ryan came up to her. "Hey Calleigh," he said. "How's Kai?"

"When I talked to Horatio last night she was in surgery," Calleigh said. "What exactly happened last night, Ryan?"

Ryan went into detail about everything that happened -from Eric arriving before Horatio got there and how he left, then came back to talk to Horatio about his job. And how he had flipped his shit.

Calleigh listened to Ryan, and looked around. "So everyone has heard about Kai?" she asked as Natalia came up to her. "Hey Natalia, were you here when it happened?"

"No," Natalia said. "I had just left- I think Valera was here, though I don't know for sure. How is she?"

"I don't know," Calleigh said honestly. "They were hoping she would be out today. We should make a card for her and I'll add it to the ones the kids made last night"

"That's a great idea!" Natalia said. "I'll go get the supplies. Do you think Horatio will ask us to help with Kai again?"

"Most likely," Calleigh said. "Though I'm sure more people are going to be involved with her care now. And if he can he'll swing it so the kids and Kai won't have to see Eric in the courtroom"

"It never fails," Alexx said coming up behind them. "Every time something goes right for her or Horatio, Eric has to destroy their happiness. And it sets Kai back on her progress towards getting better. Poor Kai can never catch a break"

"I agree Alexx," Calleigh said. "Hey Ryan, I'm going to be taking off shortly to get the kids from school. Horatio and Kai should be there by the time I get to the house"

"I'll go over and cook for them tonight," Alexx said. "That way, if something needs to get done, I can do it and you can come back to work"

"Great thanks Alexx," Calleigh said. "I'm sure that will help Horatio and the kids out a lot too. I know there are some signs for the yard sale to make. And Ryan, you might get called in to help watch over Kai"

"Me?" Ryan asked. "Why? That would be a little weird, don't you think?"

"Because we're going to need more help," Calleigh said. "With Kai injured, it will be good for you to get to know her. But whatever you do, do NOT argue with her. She is a true Italian and she'll chew you up and spit you out while she rattles off strings of swear words and curses, all in one breath. And for the love of God do NOT bring up Eric's name!"

Frank came up behind everyone. "Has anyone seen Horatio today?" Frank asked. "I need to talk to him and his wife"

All four of them looked at Frank and smirked. "I think he should be the first one," Ryan said, "to go sit on Kai"

"What the hell are you talking about, Wolfe?" Frank asked. "I'm not sitting on no one, it's not my job"

"You will if Horatio says you have to," Calleigh told him. "Natalia, Alexx, and I can't be the only ones to stay with her"

"He'll be the first one to piss her off," Alexx said. "I know he will"

Meanwhile back at the hospital Kai's session ended. As they walked out to catch a cab to the realtor's office, she picked up the phone and called Calleigh.

"Duquesne," Calleigh answered. "Kai? Is that you?" She then put the call on speaker phone. "Everyone here wants to say hi!"

Kai smiled, and put it on speaker on her end as well. "Hey everyone," Kai said. "I'm out of the hospital and just got done with my appointment. We are going to go sign for the house, and then Horatio is taking me home and putting me to bed. Calleigh, are you picking up the kids so Horatio can do the walk through?"

"Yes," Calleigh said. "I am, and then Alexx is going to come over tonight and cook. She also said she would help with anything for the yard sale"

"Great," Kai said. "H and I think we're going to need some extra help with me, while the kids are at school."

Calleigh smirked; she had already known that. "That's fine," Calleigh said. "We'll get Frank, Ryan, and Max Valera to help"

Kai smiled. "Thanks, Calleigh," she said. "Talk to you all later. Love you guys"

They all said their good-byes and hung up. Frank and Ryan were livid. "I shouldn't have to watch Horatio's wife, damn it!" Frank said.

"Neither should I," Ryan said. "We didn't work with her!"

"You won't even do this for Horatio?" Calleigh asked. "It's either we go work with her at home or she comes here and supervises us"

"She can't do that," Frank said. "Can she?"

"Baby," Alexx said. "She can and she will. She retired as a captain. Kai is above Horatio"

"So what's that got to do with us?" Frank asked. "So she retired as a captain, what's your point Alexx?"

She looked at him in a way that made her kids shiver. It was the mom look. "So Frank," she said. "That means she even outranks you"

"Wait," Ryan said, holding up a hand, looking meaningfully at Frank. "I just thought of something."

Frank looked back, then a look of recognition dawned on his face. "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" he asked Ryan, brows arched. "Yeah, you are, aren't you?" He grinned.

"Probably." Ryan and Frank turned to Alexx almost in sync; Frank crossed his arms over his chest. "Alexx," Ryan said smugly, "she can't tell us how to do anything. Not anymore, she's retired."

Alexx looked from one man to the other and back, then burst into laughter. "Y'all are too funny, you know that?" she grinned, shaking her head. "You know she's retired. And I know she's retired. But we all know damn well that's not gonna stop her. She's gonna be up y'all's butts all day, every day, telling you what to do, picking out every mistake."

The two men's faces fell. Alexx was right. "Shit," Ryan said bleakly.

"So," Alexx continued. "Pick your poison. Have Kai here every single damn day, over your shoulder bossing you both around -- or just do what Horatio asks, go on over there, and sit with her for a few hours every day. Gettin' paid for sitting on the couch eating snacks, helping Kai with little stuff here and there. Sounds like a pretty sweet gig to me."

She craned her neck, looking up and over Frank's shoulder. "Either way, y'all better hurry up and decide. Here comes H," she said, and scuttled away before the fireworks started.

Outside, Horatio and Kai got out of the cab. Kai stood by Horatio's car as he paid, and waited while he went into PD. Coming in, he saw his CSIs and Frank standing there talking.

"Where's Kai?" Calleigh asked Horatio. "I'll give her the keys to your car"

"Outside, standing by the car," Horatio told her, as he walked up to the two men.

Calleigh went outside to see Kailani. "Hey there," she said. "Here are Horatio's keys. I got them from Ryan; he picked them up last night"

"Hey," Kai said, smiling. "Thanks. Were the kids good?"

"Very good," Calleigh said smiling back. "They miss you so much; both of them were so worried!"

Meanwhile back inside PD, Horatio spoke to his CSIs. "Frank," Horatio said. "Ryan. Gentlemen, I have a little favor to ask you."

Frank and Ryan sighed grimly and looked at each other.

"Let me guess," Ryan grumbled.

"Would you two gentlemen watch my beautiful wife for me while I'm here at work?" he asked. "She's not quite ready to be at home all by herself yet"

"I don't know H..." Ryan said.

"Yeah, it's not like we worked with her, Horatio," Frank said. "She's not- like- a personal friend, or anything."

"Well, then maybe I can sweeten the pot for you;" Horatio said looking back and forth from one man to the other. "How about I throw in a pair of Miami Heat tickets?"

Both men looked at each other, then back at Horatio. "Seriously?" they asked in unison.

"Why not Dolphins tickets?" Ryan asked.

"Because basketball is what I'm offering. And if you refuse the tickets I'll just bring Kai to work with me everyday," he said. "And I'm pretty sure you're not going to like that so much."

"Basketball is fine," Frank said. "Damn, Horatio, you drive a hard bargain"

Horatio smirked. "Nice doing business with you guys," he said. "Expect the tickets soon"

Having gotten that issue settled. Horatio then left and headed out to where Kai and Calleigh were talking. "Good. All set. Now, tomorrow, either Ryan or Frank will be with you at home while I'm at work. I will take the kids to school and pick them up"

Kai nodded, as Calleigh hugged her gently. "I'll get the kids from school, Horatio," Calleigh said. "That way you can do your errands, and Kai can rest"

"Thank you, Calleigh," Kai said getting into the car. "You are truly my best friend. See you soon"

Horatio made sure Kai was comfortable and helped her with her seatbelt, then went to the driver's side and got in. He took her to sign the papers for the house, and to the drugstore to get her prescriptions before taking her home to rest. She fell asleep in the car while he drove.

Once home Horatio got out and unlocked the house door. Then he went to get Kai from the car and took her inside, and laid her gently on the bed. He made sure she was comfortable, then scribbled out a note saying that he was doing the walk through and doing errands for the yard sale, and would be back soon.

Meanwhile back at PD, Calleigh was getting ready to clock out so she could go pick up the twins.

"Hey Calleigh," came a voice from behind her. "Wait up a second"

Calleigh turned to see Max Valera jogging up behind her. "What's up, Valera?" Calleigh asked. "I was just getting ready to leave to get the kids from school"

"Hey, I heard Frank and Ryan talking," Valera said. "They were talking about having to sit on Kai. Why would they have to do that?"

"You were the other person I was supposed to talk to," Calleigh said, turning to her. "Horatio would like extra help with Kai, since she was shot in the shoulder and can't do much for herself. She just got home today, and she'll need help for a few weeks. Would you like to help too? She can tell you wonderful stories her mom told her; she is really worth getting to know"

Valera stood there thinking for a minute. "And what about my work here?" Valera asked. "Am I supposed to work after working with her?"

"No," she said. "It would be a paid day at Horatio's watching Kai, making sure she takes her pills and rests, and helping her with anything she may need. If you agree to do this, you can talk about anything. Anything, except Eric. We are down a CSI because of his poor choice"

"So I have to entertain her and listen to her basically?" Valera asked. "And don't mention Eric. Okay, got it. So, who's taking the first shift?"

"I believe it is Frank," Calleigh said. "Then tomorrow Ryan. So, you would be the next day. You work two days here, then a day with Kai, and so on. It'll keep going that way until she can be left alone.

"Count me in," Valera said. "I bet Kai's got some great stories from her career as a CSI"

"Great, thanks," Calleigh told her. "And she sure does. Now I do have to get going to get the kids. Alexx is coming over to make dinner for them. So, see you tomorrow Max"

"Sure," Valera said. "See you tomorrow"

Meanwhile Horatio went to the final walk through of the house. He looked over the yard first, seeing no signs of animals other than wildlife. He made sure the house didn't have have any exterior damage. When things seemed satisfactory outside, he went inside and checked all the lights and everything else. He smiled a sad smile, knowing that Kai would probably not be able to cook again. But knowing she would make this house into a home for the two of them and the twins excited him.

Horatio and the realtor talked, and Horatio got the keys. "Thank you so much for all the help," Horatio said. "I think this is my wife's dream home, a chance to start fresh and new"

"You are more than welcome," the realtor said. "I wish your wife a speedy recovery, and I hope you enjoy your new home" Then he left.

Horatio looked around again knowing that if Kai couldn't help physically set up the house, she could at least get people to do what she wanted. It was something she'd always been good at, he thought, smiling. He then left the house, and went to check on Kai.

As he was coming up the drive he saw Alexx pulling up into the driveway. He jogged over to the car. "Hey, Alexx," Horatio said smiling at her. "Thanks for coming over to cook tonight"

"No problem Horatio," Alexx said. "I enjoy cooking. Anything I can do to help. Do you have a rotation schedule made up for us?"

"Not yet," he said. "By tomorrow we will, though. I'm sure. I know Frank is going to be here with Kai...I just hope he doesn't do or say anything that is going to set her off"

"How did you get both Frank and Ryan to say yes?" Alexx asked getting out of the car and followed Horatio to the door. "Wait, I know. You bribed them, didn't you?"

Horatio smirked and unlocked the door, letting Alexx in first. "Yes," Horatio said. "Yes I did. They asked for football tickets and I told them basketball was what I was offering, take it or leave it. And if they left it, Kai would be at work with me everyday bossing them around."

Alexx went in first and snorted. "That's what I told them, too" Alexx said. "Either they come stay with her, or she would be there, hovering over their shoulders"

Horatio chuckled and followed her in. Alexx took off her shoes and looked in the kitchen to see if anything had been pulled out for dinner. Nothing had, so she pulled hamburger and ran it under cold water to help thaw it faster.

While Alexx was doing that, Horatio went to check on Kai. She was still asleep; she hadn't moved much from the position Horatio had left her in. He touched her face gently. "Così stanco..." ("So tired) Kai mumbled in her sleep, moving just a little bit.

Horatio smiled again and placed a kiss on her forehead. Then he left the room, closing the door all but a crack. He came into the kitchen to find Alexx peeling potatoes.

Alexx looked over at him. "How is she, Horatio?" she asked as he sat down at the dining room table. "Is she okay?"

"She's sleeping," Horatio said. "Which is going to be normal for a few days I think. I don't know if she'll actually get any sleep with Frank here, but I know with you, Calleigh, and Natalia she will sleep"

"Because she knows us," Alexx said. "The three of us were here for her when the whole thing happened last month, so..she knows we'll be here for her again. And if I know you, you probably feel like you're asking too much of us. Calleigh especially"

Horatio looked up from the cards on the table to Alexx. "You're right ma'am," he said. "I feel like I'm asking a lot of everyone, especially Calleigh. I know it's my job to take care of my family, but I feel like I can't be a good leader for you all if I have to worry about my wife. I'm glad we have great friends like you, Calleigh, and Natalia. I know I can't take the time off, and if I do, I have to put Calleigh in charge"

"Whoa, Horatio," Alexx said. "It's okay. Why don't you see how this week plays out, with everyone coming in and watching Kai? And if you feel like you need a couple of weeks off to be here with her to care for her, then ask Calleigh to take over for that time. Then after that we'll see how Kai's doing, and if you feel like she needs to stay here with people or if she can do something else"

Horatio thought about what she was saying for a few moments. "You know what Alexx?" he said. "I think that's a great idea. When Calleigh gets here with the kids I'll ask her about being in charge for a couple of weeks after this. And if Calleigh's okay with that, I'll stay home and help Kai with everything she needs. Then I'll hire movers to pack up this house and move our things a few houses over, to the new house.

A few minutes later Calleigh came home with the twins, who were very excited to see their mom. They ran into the house like two wild animals. First they looked in the kitchen to see Alexx and Horatio. They ditched their shoes, and ran over to Horatio and hugged him.

He hugged them back. "Your mom is sleeping," he told them. "You're going to have to be very gentle with her"

They nodded and looked at the cards still on the table. "Oh!" Isabella said. "We have two more cards for her from our classrooms! I hope these cards will make her feel better"

"I bet they will," Alexx said. "You two are so sweet; I know your mama is so proud of you"

"Thanks" Kani said. "Can we see mama?"

"She's sleeping, Kani," Isabella said. "Let her sleep"

Calleigh came in the door to see Alexx working on dinner. "Hey, Horatio," Calleigh said. "Can we talk outside for a minute?"

Horatio nodded. "Of course we can," he said. "Please, kids, start on your homework" He then followed Calleigh outside. "What's wrong?"

"Well as of right now, nothing is wrong," Calleigh said. "How's Kai feeling? Are you sure having Frank and Ryan here is going to help?"

He looked at her. "It's going to be rough, I know," he said. "But I think it could all work out. When I go to work tomorrow, I'll tell our boss that I need two weeks off with my wife, and that I'm leaving you in charge. If you find someone that is interested in being apart of our team, go ahead and bring them on board, and I'll meet them when I come back. PD is one of the last places Kai's going to want to be...and if Frank and Ryan quit this is going to be a hard forced reality for her until she can be left by herself."

The twins were in Kai's room on the bed doing their homework quietly. They had just wanted to be close to their mom, even if she was sleeping. Kai slowly woke up. "Mmm, I sense two kids on my bed," she said sleepily.

They smiled at her. "Hi, mama," they said in unison.

"We're happy you're home," Isabella said. "We missed you, we have more cards for you!" Kani nodded. He was quiet, though because he didn't want to cry and not have his mom be able to hold him.

Kai sat up as best as she could and held her good arm out for Kani. "Come here, my little one," she said to him. "Bella, you can sit at my feet if you would like. Would you like to talk about what happened?"

The twins nodded as they took their spots by their mom. "We were so worried about you mama," Kani said. "Neither of us slept well last night"

"We were worried all day, too," Isabella said. "Then when Calleigh came to get us and she said you were home...we were so happy! She said we had to be super gentle with you because of your shoulder"

"And she's right," Kai said. "But, let's be positive and think positively! You know Nonna wouldn't want us to dwell on it, I've been shot, but that's in the past now; the important thing now is to recover. Eric is in jail for attempted murder I'm sure. I will do my best to move on and to forget what happened. And this is the last time Eric Delko's name will be said in this house"

The kids nodded. They didn't really remember After all the time they had spent in Alaska, they had forgotten about him. When they came back, to Florida, he had tried to barge his way back into their life, and Kai hadn't reacted well to that.

Up until Eric had kidnapped her, Kai had never spoken an ill word about him. Now, she set a lot of the old Italian curses on him. The next time the kids would see him, if they chose to do so, would be years later, when they were older. Eric Delko was now a chapter that was forever closed in their lives.

The next day Horatio was up early with the kids getting them ready for school. He made them bacon and eggs for breakfast.

"Isn't Calleigh taking us to school today?" Isabella asked. "She's been taking us to school a lot lately"

"No, I'm taking you," Horatio said. "We're going to let your mom sleep in a little. Frank should be here soon. I'll pick you up from school today"

"Is Alexx coming to cook again?" Kani asked. "She makes food we don't usually eat, and it's a nice break from Italian. Is mama going to be able to cook again soon?"

"I don't know Kani," Horatio said. "Eat and please finish getting ready for school." He thought for a minute. "You know, I know I said to let mom sleep but she needs some food in her stomach before taking her pill."

Kai was up and in the bathroom trying to get ready to go. She was going to show the teachers she was real. She looked over when Horatio came in.

"Hi, babe" she said smiling trying to get her make up on.

"Kai," Horatio said gently. "Kai, where are you going?"

"I'm going with you to take the kids to school," she said. "I can't stay here all day!"

"Kai, come eat," he said gently. "You need to rest."

"I'm fine," she said, smoothing out her dress which was on backwards. "Damn it"

Horatio went to help her. "Come eat please," Horatio said. "You need to take your pill too"

"I out-rank you H," Kai said. "I'm not some little girl you can boss around!"

"Oh yeah? Well, I, out-age you" he said. "This is so you can get better. I know before long you'll be in Physical Therapy and we're going to try to get your shoulder mobility back. So rest now, and in a few weeks we'll see about you getting out of the house for a little bit"

Kai stared at him in disbelief, surprised that he would pull the age card with her. She huffed and walked out of the bedroom. As she headed to the kitchen there was a knock on the door. Kai answered it and looked at the heavy set man on the other side of the door. Then she slammed it in his face, and went to get some juice.

The twins looked at each other. They knew when she was this upset it was best not to do or say anything to cause her to snap more.

Horatio came out of the room and opened the door again for Frank. "Frank, won't you come in?" he asked. "Kai, this is Frank. Frank is going to be here with you today while I'm at work"

"Questo maiale grassoccio mi guarderà?" Kai said. "Fare cosa H? Mi guarderà mentre vado in bagno? Se incasina la casa, la pulisce finché non brilla!" ("This pudgy pig is going to watch me? Do what H? Is he going to watch me go to the bathroom? If he messes up the house he's going to clean it until it sparkles!")

Horatio and the twins laughed. The three of them knew she meant what she said about cleaning the house.

"What did she say?" Frank asked wanting in on the joke. "What did she say Horatio?"

Horatio whispered in her ear. "Ehi, anch'io sono un maiale. Ma questo maiale ti ama" he said. ("Hey, I'm a pig too. But this pig loves you")

Kai laughed. "Può essere vero, ma io sono innamorato di te, e lui è solo grasso... non posso avere qualcun altro oi bambini stanno a casa?" she asked. ("That may be true, but I'm in love with you, and he's just fat...can't I have someone else or the kids stay home?")

"No," he said. "To both questions. Now, play nice like I know you can. Be good and take your pill, your breakfast is in the bedroom. Maybe while you're home you can make price tags for the yard sale"

"Oh!" Kai said. "Yes, I think that could work. Alright H, I'll be good. I love you so much. Alright my babies!" she called to the kids. "Be good and have a great day at school!! I'll look at the cards today; I love you both so much!" She kissed them, and went to get her food.

When she came back she pulled chicken out of the freezer and looked through her mom's recipe book. "Ooh this looks good; maybe I can have whomever is coming over to cook this" she said to herself. She turned to Frank "Ehi grassoccio, ho bisogno che tu faccia una commissione per me" ("Hey pudgy, I need you to run an errand for me")

Frank sat on the couch watching TV; he didn't hear her

"Hey!" Kai said snapping at him, voice raised to get his attention "I need you to do me a favor"

"What could you possibly need me to do?" Frank asked. "I just got here, and I'm busy."

"Listen here you maiale grassoccio!" (pudgy pig) she said, snapping at him. "You work for Horatio today, and he told you to keep me happy did he not? Well, in order for me to be happy I need you to run to the store and get things for my dinner tonight! It's Chicken Piccata!"

"And you're supposed to be resting!" Frank fired back at her. "Now! Take your pill and go to bed!"

"Ascolta qui, porco grasso!" Kai said in Italian. "Se non puoi fare come ti chiedo, allora puoi andartene e chiederò a Horatio di prendere la roba mentre torni a casa! Dannato maiale.." ("Listen here you fat pig! If you cannot do as I ask then you can leave and I'll ask Horatio to pick up the stuff on the way home! Damn porker..")

Frank stood there confused by what she was saying until Horatio's name came up. Then he picked up the phone and called Horatio.

Meanwhile at PD, Horatio had just arrived after dropping the twins off. He was on his way to go see his boss, to ask for two weeks off, when Frank called. "Frank," Horatio said. "Frank, what's the matter?" Horatio could hear Kai going off in the background; he rubbed his temple.

"Your goddamn wife here is yelling at me and I can't understand her!" Frank said. "The only thing I understood was 'Horatio' and I called you, I can't do this."

Kai overheard, and that caused her to get louder. She went off even more slamming pots and pans, ignoring any and all pain she was in.

"Okay, Frank," Horatio said calmly. "I need you to listen, and listen carefully. You are going to repeat this to her after you get it right"

"What am I repeating" Frank asked a little nervous. "It better not be something that's gonna piss her off more"

"No," Horatio said. "It's supposed to be funny. Trust me, you want to hear her laugh. Whatever she wants you to do, do it. Ready?"

"Even if it's telling me to go to the store?" Frank asked. "For dinner tonight"

"Yes," Horatio said. "That means she's got something in mind for tonight. If I know her, it's a chicken recipe. Now listen carefully Frank. Respira, altrimenti avrai il pollo che ti becca le dita dei piedi per farti ballare" ("Breathe, otherwise you'll have chicken pecking at your toes to make you dance")

While all of this was going on, Kai was in the bathroom struggling to go. "Wear a dress, he says" Kai said mocking Horatio. "It will be easier, he says. Cosa diavolo c'è di più facile nell'indossare un vestito quando ti sparano alla spalla?" ("What the hell is easier about wearing a dress when you're shot in the shoulder?") She finally used the bathroom and washed up the best she could all while Frank was on the phone with Horatio.

"Good. Now," Horatio said. "Repeat it phonetically word for word and I promise you, she'll laugh"

"I don't know, Horatio..," Frank said seeing Kai come out of the bedroom. "I'll try it, hang on" He put Horatio on speaker phone. "Kailani, Respira, altri avr ll pollo ch ti bec la dit pie per fart ball"

Kai stood there trying to make sense of what Frank said. Then she started to laugh; she couldn't stop laughing because it was so funny.

"She's laughing.." Frank said. "Horatio, she's laughing! I did it"

"You did, Frank," Horatio said chuckling. It was quite funny. "Now, whatever she needs done please, go get it. She'll eat and take her pill, I know she will"

Kailani wiped her eyes from the tears, and made herself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich so she could take her pill.

Frank looked over to see her eating, her pill next to her on the table, and smiled a bit. "Okay Horatio," Frank said. I'll go get what she needs"

"Oh," Horatio said. "Make sure you clean up after yourself, or she'll make you clean until it sparkles. Her words, not mine"

"She can't make me do that!" Frank said a little worried. "Can she? But she was pissed at you before she was pissed at me, even the kids looked scared."

"She can and she will," Horatio told him. "She is a stickler for a clean house. Her mom was the same way. I have learned in the time I've known Kai, not to step on toes about things like that."

And," Horatio continued. "I don't really piss my wife off. Not as much as Eric did, and now not as much as you do. So to get back into Kai's good graces, go to the store, buy what she needs AND clean up after yourself. I'll be home after while. I think it's Calleigh coming today to cook. I bet Kai has a plan in mind for dinner. Good luck Frank" Horatio then hung up and chuckled before going to check on his team.

Calleigh was just walking up to him. He spotted her, and stopped. "Hey Horatio," Calleigh said. "How is Frank surviving?"

"Barely," Horatio said. "Sounds like Kai already chewed him up; I could tell from the panic in his voice when he called me. I made him repeat a phrase in Italian until it was correct, so he could tell it to her. He screwed it up, but it made her laugh, so..." he shrugged, smiling.

Calleigh laughed. "Poor Frank," she said. "What's he doing now?"

"He went to get her some food from the grocery," he said. "I think she may have something in mind-some recipe for dinner-but you may have to help her."

"You got it Horatio," Calleigh said. "I will help her in anyway I can- I can't save Frank or Ryan, but I can help Kai." Calleigh laughed. She could see Kai doing everything single thing Horatio said. "So, last night," she said. "Before I left, Walter Simmons came up to me and asked if we needed help on the day shift. I told him we did, that we were down one CSI"

"And he asked who we were missing?" Horatio asked. "Or did he know who it was?"

"He knew," Calleigh said. "He was here the day Eric tried to shoot you and shot Kai instead. He's looking to transfer to day shift. Here's his number"

Horatio took it and called Walter right away. He left a voice mail, asking Walter to come over to his house so they could talk. "Thank you ma'am," he said to Calleigh. "Are you coming to make dinner tonight or is that Natalia?"

"I am," Calleigh said. "Do you have anything in mind?"

"No," Horatio said. "But I think Kai might. Frank has to go get Kai's mini grocery list..it's an Italian recipe"

Calleigh nodded. She already knew the kids weren't going to like it, she was sure of that already. They loved the comfort food Alexx had been making for them -- burgers and hot dogs -- but Kai had decided it was time for them to go back to their normal, healthier diet.

Meanwhile at the grocery store Frank was trying to translate the grocery list Kailani had written. He stared at it in consternation, then sent the picture to Horatio. "Help," he said.

Horatio looked at the list and smirked, before showing Calleigh. "She wrote it in Italian," Horatio said chuckling more. "Besides the kids I'm the only other one in the house that can read it. I think she did it on purpose. She doesn't think about the list when she writes it, she just writes it" He then translated everything on the list for Frank.

Frank saw the list and sighed. "Why didn't she just write it in English?" he asked.

"She doesn't think about English when she writes her grocery list out, it's always in Italian" Horatio explained to him.

Frank sighed deeply and put the phone away. He went to get everything on the list for dinner, and other things she had listed that weren't food related. "Who the hell writes their list in another language?" Frank mumbled to himself.

Horatio finally made it to his boss, which he realized was himself. He chuckled. 'I forgot I was the boss,' he told himself. 'Guess I'll let Calleigh know later that she's in charge for two weeks.' Horatio put the time off in the computer so everyone would know he wouldn't be there for two weeks.

Meanwhile, back at home Kailani was in the bedroom asleep, and was having nightmares from the last month leading up to the shooting. "ERIC NO!!" she shouted sitting up, wincing in pain. She looked at the clock. She then called Horatio.

"Hello, beautiful" he said, smiling.

"H," she said her voice shaking. "I need you to come home"

"Kai," Horatio said softly. "Kai, what's wrong?"

"I-I had a nightmare" she told him. "Please"

"Alright, I'll be there soon," he said. "I have to do one more thing then I'll be on the way"

"Thanks H," Kai said. "I love you, see you soon"

Shortly after she hung up, Frank came in with the groceries. Kai got up and went to the kitchen. "Thank you, for getting this for me," she told Frank. "It means a lot to me, I don't try to be difficult, it's just hard when I'm told I can't do something and I still want to do it"

Frank listened to her apology and noticed she didn't look at him. "Are you alright, Kailani?" Frank asked. "Did you rest?"

"I tried," Kai said. "I just woke up from a nightmare about Eric...I called H, he'll be on his way soon"

Frank knew he wasn't supposed to talk about Eric as it was a trigger for Kai. "What are you having for dinner?" he asked changing the subject.

Kai looked up. "It's my favorite recipe my mom used to make for me," Kai said smiling. "It's my comfort food, chicken piccata. It's why I asked you to get the ingredients for me"

"What was your mom like?" Frank asked. "And your dad"

"Well," Kai said. "My dad was my hero. I got my name from him. He's Hawaiian. So I'm Hawaiian and Italian. I can speak both languages. When my dad died I was very depressed. I lost a part of myself and relied on my mom a lot" She took a deep breath. "My mom was my best friend; I learned everything from her. How to make my own pasta, my own desserts, how to do portion control for food. Everything! When she died this past year...I was broken again. I thought of taking my own life to be with my parents. I never thought I could ever live without them. Two things stopped me..H, and the twins."

Frank nodded sympathetically, not knowing what to say, and helped unpack the groceries.

Meanwhile, back at PD Horatio and Calleigh were both getting off work. "Do you need me to pick up anything from the store Horatio?" Calleigh asked. "I'm on my way over to the house now"

"Not that I know of, or can think of," Horatio told her. "I'm on my way to get the kids. Maybe I should pick Kai up and take her with me"

"That would be a good idea," Calleigh said. "She might need to vent about Frank"

He laughed as they walked out together. "Oh, I don't think she needs to," he told her. "She vented a lot in Italian, when he pissed her off more"

Calleigh laughed and reached her car. "Who's with her tomorrow?" she asked.

"I was going to talk to you about that," Horatio said. "Do you think you'd be good on taking over the department for a couple of weeks while I stay home with Kai?"

"Of course, I can!" Calleigh said. "Since you two have gotten married, I don't think there's been really a moment you've been home with her..you've been here at work or in the hospital with her"

"That's true," he said. "Since we got married, I haven't really been there for her..she called earlier saying she had a nightmare. I think I'll stop by the store and pick up some flowers before going home"

"Alright," Calleigh said. "See you at the house" Calleigh got in the car and headed for the house. Horatio then left, going to the store to pick up flowers. Then he headed home to get Kai before getting the kids from school.

Meanwhile back at the house, Kai had things washed and ready to go for dinner. Frank was making sure the living room was cleaned. "Hey, Kailani," Frank said. "Is this good, or do I have to do more?"

Kai went into the living room and checked the cushions; she found some money which was now hers. "It's good enough," Kai said. "Calleigh and H should be here soon, you can go."

"I'll wait," Frank said. "I can wait with you"

Kai sat on the couch and flipped on the TV. "You can go, I'm going to watch TV until Horatio gets home," she said. "Really, I'm good"

Frank sighed and decided not to argue with her. He left the house. As he was getting in the car, he saw Calleigh pull in the driveway.

She got out after parking and looked over at Frank. "How did it go with Kai?" Calleigh asked. "I see you're still standing."

"Barely," Frank said. "She's a hard ass and mean"

"That's the way she was raised," Calleigh said. "She really is a good person, really sweet. Once you get to know her."

"Maybe it's best I don't get to know her Cal," Frank said. "She yelled at me, called me something, I don't know what...I asked her about her parents, and she was okay with that. I didn't bring up Delko, but she did."

"I'll go sit with her," Calleigh said. "Trust me, it will be easier. Oh, and within the next couple of days you'll be reporting to me. Horatio will be home with Kai for a couple of weeks"

"Is that a good idea?" Frank asked. "Him being away like that?"

"He needs to be," she said. "Kai really needs him, and since they got married he really hasn't been home for her. It's either been he's at work, or at the hospital with her"

Frank thought about it and nodded, before getting into his car. Calleigh then went into the house, to find Kai asleep with the TV on. She covered Kai with a blanket.

Meanwhile, at the store, Horatio picked up flowers for Kai, then stopped by the school to get the kids. He went into the school, and the principal smiled.

"Mrs. Garcia," Horatio said, smiling a bit at her. "I need to update you on what's going on with the twins' mother"

"Lieutenant Caine," Mrs. Garcia said. "Of course, I heard them talking about her. I'm starting to wonder if she's real or not."

He chuckled, and showed Mrs. Garcia a picture of Kai. "She's very real," he said. "She's just home resting. She was shot in the shoulder by the twins' bio dad, Eric Delko"

"She's beautiful," Mrs. Garcia said. "Isabella looks just like her. I'm sorry to hear about her being shot, I will keep the security here on high alert, just in case, Lieutenant"

"Thank you," Horatio said. "I know school is out soon; I'll wait here for them if you don't mind"

"Walk with me," Mrs. Garcia said. "I'll show you how well Kalani is doing in his new class"

"Lead the way," he said. "How is Bella doing? Good I hope"

"She's doing excellent!" Mrs. Garcia said. "Kalani has just bloomed in his new class! He's loving the fact that every Friday he learns Japanese with Mr. Suzuki. The entire class takes the day to learn it; it's an earned privilege, so it give the students incentive to do well all week"

Mrs. Garcia knocked on the door, Mr. Suzuki looked over and waved her in. "To what do we owe the pleasure, Mrs. Garcia?" he asked.

Kalani looked up and smiled. "Hi dad," he said. "Is mama okay?"

"Yes, she is," Horatio said. "Calleigh is with her; I came to get you and your sister."

"Lieutenant," Mr. Suzuki said. "I would like to invite you and your wife to come to the school Friday to watch our lesson. Kalani has been doing so well on his Japanese so far, and he's been teaching me Italian as well"

Horatio smiled. "Good job Kani," he praised. "Ready to go get Bella and go home to see your mom?"

"Yes, I am," Kani said. "Tanoshī tsuitachi o arigatō!" ("Thank you for the fun day!")

"You're welcome," Mr. Suzuki said. "Ci vediamo domani!" (See you tomorrow!)

Kani gathered his stuff and went to Horatio. "I'm ready to go get Bella!" he told him

Horatio smiled and held the door open for him

Mrs. Garcia had already gone next door to get Bella who was waiting in the hallway. "Hi dad!" Bella said happily. "Guess what language I'm learning!"

"Spanish?" Horatio guessed. "German?"

"Spanish is correct!!" she said. "Miss Jones is teaching the class Spanish, after lunch usually on Wednesdays!"

Horatio smiled, and took the two to the office to sign them out. "That's wonderful!" Horatio told her. "Let's go home and tell your mom; Calleigh's there too."

The twins were both so excited to get home, to see their mom and Calleigh. "I hope she makes food like Alexx!" Bella said

"Me too!!" Kani said. "I really love the hamburgers!"

"Well I think your mom found a recipe of your Nonna's," Horatio said. "So I think tonight is Italian night"

Both kids groaned. "Do we have to?" Isabella asked. "It's been so nice not having Italian dinners"

"I know," Horatio said. "But your mom just wants you to eat healthy and grow up healthy. There is nothing wrong with that; she loves you guys"

They got to the car and got in for the quick drive home. The kids continued to voice their opinions while Horatio drove.

"Then you two need to talk to your mom about your concerns," Horatio told them. "She will listen to you"

He got the kids out of the car and took them inside. "We're home" Kani said taking off his shoes. "Mama?"

"She's sleeping right now, Kani," Calleigh said. " I don't think she had a good nap. I'm making Chicken Piccata for dinner' it was your Nonna's recipe"

The twins both gave her a disapproving look before they went and started on their homework. Calleigh chuckled. She had expected that reaction from them. "Sorry guys, I've got to follow what your mom tells me to make" she told them.

Horatio went into the living room where Kai was napping. He kissed her softly, and watched her sleep. He was so in love with her. It made him proud to be her husband and to hear the twins call him dad; he couldn't ask for anything more than what he already had.

Kailani started physical therapy and it helped her regain some mobility in her shoulder. She could once again do most of the cooking.

Kai, Horatio, Calleigh, and the kids moved into the new house. By the time they had full settled in and unpacked, it was October. Halloween was just around the corner, and Kai started decorating, excited about the family's first holiday in their new home.

"Mama, can we go trick or treating this year?" Kani asked. "I want to go as a CSI, like you and Dad."

"Well," Kai said. " If that's what you want to do, then we'll need to get you a new suit, and you can use my old badge and sunglasses. Bella, what about you?"

"I don't know, mama," Bella said. "I don't what I want to be, Nonna always knew what I should go as...but she's not here! How can you go trick or treating without her, Kalani!" she screamed. She went to her room, crying. "It's just not the same!"

"But Nonna's always here with us," Kani said. "Why doesn't she go as Nonna..?" he asked his mother.

"That's a great idea, Kani!" Kai said, running off to Isabella's room. She knocked before going in. "Hey, Bella, why don't you go as Nonna? Kani suggested it, and it would be a great honor to her"

"You think so?" Bella asked tearfully. "Nonna was my hero, mama. I mean, you are too, but..."

Kailani smiled. "I knew your Nonna was your hero," she told her. "She was mine too, I also know that you love me and respect me. I don't have to be everyone's hero, but I do have to be me, and I love you so very much Isabella. You make me so happy, you and Kalani"

Bella hugged her mom tight. "I love you too, mama," she told Kai. "I'm glad you're my mom. I'm sorry bad things always happen to you"

Kai laughed. "Me too kid, me too. Just know, that, I love you. One day you and Kani will be grown up and on your own..H and I will show you what it takes to survive in the outside world."

Isabella nodded. "Mama," she said. "One day when I have kids, will you be as wise as Nonna?"

Kailani smiled and nodded. "I'll be your kids' Nonna, I'll teach them and you everything I know, so you can keep being a Nonna alive. But, that is only IF you want to Bella. You don't have to have kids. I'm not going to force you, but if you do...H and I will be here to help you"

"Thanks, mama," Bella said hugging her. "I'll remember that"

The days flew by, and soon it was Halloween. The kids went trick or treating with Horatio and Kai. Kalani dressed as a CSI, in his brand-new suit. Bella dressed as Nonna. They had fun, and got lots of candy. Horatio and Kai took loads of photos of the kids in their costumes, to commemorate the occasion.

When they went to bed that night, after all the Halloween festivities, Bella told Kai what she wanted to do when she grew up.

"Oh yeah?" Kai asked. "What's that?"

"I wanna be a CSI, like you and dad," Bella said. "Will you guys help me with that?"

Of course we will, Bella! Kai assured her. "We'll support you no matter what. We're proud of you!"

"Dad, is it okay if I don't know what I want to do yet? When I grow up, I mean?" Kani asked, as Horatio tucked him in. "Do I have to decide right now?"

"Kani," Horatio said. "You take your time on deciding what you want to be in life. If you want to be a chef, be one. If you want to be like me and your mom, we'll help you make that dream come true. If you want to be a banker, do it. You can do whatever you want."

"Thanks Dad," Kani said. You're the best. I'm glad you adopted us and changed our last name from Delko to Caine."

"You're welcome," Horatio s aid. "Now, get some sleep. Before long it will be Thanksgiving, and then Christmas break."

"Okay Dad," Kani said. "I'll get some sleep. Maybe, just maybe, I'll be a CSI like you and mom when I grow up."

"Do what makes you happy, son," Horatio said. "Do what makes you happy." He left the room and turned out the light, then went to the living room where he saw Kai sitting on the couch. "Hello beautiful," he said.

Kai looked up. "Hello handsome," she replied. "Bella told me tonight that she wants to be a CSI like us when she grows up."

"Oh really?" Horatio asked, sitting down next to her. "Kani said he might be one as well. I told him to do whatever makes him happy."

"That's a perfect answer," Kai told him, smiling. "You're pretty good at this 'Dad' stuff."

Horatio laughed and kissed her, and they both went to bed for the night.

A few days later, Kai woke up and padded into the kitchen. She looked at the calendar. "Good lord, it's already November 6!" she said. "Time to start planning for Thanksgiving." She made herself a cup of coffee and got out a notebook and pen. By the time H and the kids got up, she was already in the dining room, starting to plan a Thanksgiving menu.

Before she got very far with the menu, an idea occurred to her. "H," she said, getting up and going over to him. "What is a typical traditional American dinner for Thanksgiving?"

"Either ham, or turkey," Horatio said. "Mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, a vegetable, pumpkin pie, apple pie...why what are you thinking?"

"Well, I was thinking about mixing both American and Italian together," Kai told him. "Maybe ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, the veggies of course." She tapped her finger against her lips, thinking. "The Italian part could be the desserts..maybe cannolis, tiramisu, and panna cotta?" She frowned, not happy with the idea. "But that's not traditional enough," she worried aloud. "Maybe a little more traditional stuff, like risotto and lasagna, and..." She paced. "But knowing the kids, they'll want something more American food..."

Kai was on the verge of tears. She wanted her first Thanksgiving with Horatio, in their new home, to be special, but it felt like it was turning out to be a big mess.

Horatio hugged her. "We can do Thanksgiving the Italian way," he told her. "We don't have to do an American Thanksgiving"

"But I want it to be perfect," Kai told him. "I want it to be perfect for you, it's our first one together..."

Horatio kept her close rubbing her back. "Then I want an Italian Thanksgiving, I want you to shine on making food you love"

"You're too good to me H," she said. "I'm glad you want me to do what I love, BUT I will make one American pie"

"Okay deal," Horatio said. "Apple then, if you don't mind"

She kissed him softly. "I love you so much H," Kai said. "I'm glad you're my husband"

"I'm glad you're my wife," Horatio told her. "We finally have the chance to be together. We've had a lot of firsts together, your first new car, our first new house, the twins calling me dad, our first Japanese/Italian debate." He smiled.

Kai laughed. "Yes, we have," she said. "The bad has outweighed the good, but I'm determined to make sure more good happens than bad. I need a break from the bad. I understand now why the doctor said my shoulder wasn't going to be a hundred percent, remember when I first moved here before the crap with..."

"Yes, I remember," Horatio said. "You were so scared, shaking like a leaf."

"I remember that, the bastard shot me in the shoulder and I passed out," she said. "Then HE shot me, and now I have about 80% of my range of motion. I'm going to need help with Thanksgiving"

Calleigh was listening to the conversation from her room, and came out to join in. "I can help you, Kai," she said. "I can help cook; you tell me what to do and I'll do it!"

"What? Really?" Kai asked. "Oh Calleigh you don't have to! But I'm glad you want to. Oh! I know! Why don't we do both American and Italian? And those that have to work on Thanksgiving can have a little bit of everything!! We can still have ham and all the other stuff, and then we can have the Italian side of it! Oh!! I'm so excited!"

"That's an excellent idea!" Calleigh said. "I know it will be great! If I know you, you've already got the Italian menu planned"

"I do!!" Kai said. "And there's a bake sale at the school before break! I'm going to be a baking fool!! Pies, cakes and cookies for the bake sale!"

The two CSIs laughed. Horatio hadn't seen Kai this excited for a while. She seemed in his opinion to be okay with 80% range of motion. It had slipped his mind that she had been shot once before in the shoulder, but remembered that it hadn't done a lot of damage the first time.

While Kai was debating what to do with Thanksgiving, Horatio was trying to come up with an idea for a Christmas present for Kai. It would be their first Christmas together as husband and wife.

Horatio came up with an idea. He looked up four tickets to Hawaii around the time of the kids' winter break, and bought them. Then he slipped out of the house to make a phone call while Kai was distracted. He was going to get her a couple of corded bracelets, one with the Italian flag on it and one with Hawaii's state flower.

"What's her name?" the guy on the phone asked.

"Kailani Caine," Horatio said. "Her maiden name was Brown"

"Kalani's daughter?" the guy asked. "He was my best friend! I would do anything for that girl! Absolutely! You can pay when you get to Hawaii! Ask her about her dad's best friend Kawehi"

"I will," Horatio said. "I will try my best, anyway, and thank you for doing this"

"You're welcome" he said. "Aloha"

Horatio hung up and smiled. He couldn't wait to take Kai and the kids to Hawaii. He remembered there had been times when Kai had gone to Hawaii to visit her dad. She had even lived there for a year, because of her mom and her stepdad. Horatio never asked her what happened to the CSI that married her mom and became her dad. He always wondered but didn't want to open that can of worms, he had never asked Isabella, Kai's mom.

He went back in watching Kai and Calleigh plan dinner for Thanksgiving and smiled.

The kids were so happy to help decorate the house and asked to start making decorations for Thanksgiving.

Kai agreed and then sat down with Calleigh looking up recipes. She showed Calleigh her mom's recipe book for the Italian foods. "Do you want me to cook the Italian food, and you do the American stuff?" Kai asked. "Or do you want me to cook..." she began than stopped, laughing. "Never mind, I'll do the Italian, I love you, girl, and no offense, but I'm the expert on Italian food around here."

Calleigh laughed. "I was going to say I'll cook American," she said. "But do you still want to try to make the apple pie?"

"I don't know," Kai said. "Let me think about it. I'll have to find the best apples and everything"

"Mama," Kani said, listening in "Can we, with your permission, have the American food?"

"Of course, Kani!" Kai said. "I know it's not something I do everyday, but yes. You guys will be able to have whatever you want on Thanksgiving, even cannolis"

"Oh! I love cannolis!!" Kani exclaimed. "You don't make those often; can you make some for the bake sale?"

"Baby," Kai said smiling, "your school is going to be so rich with cannoli's, pies, cakes, and cookies- everyone is going to be so full!!"

The twins laughed. "We can't wait!" Bella said. "Everyone is already talking about your sweets!"

Kai laughed. "I bet," she said. "It's been nice to be at the school and help out. I love it and both of your teachers are so nice! I'm glad you guys are learning other languages! I hope one day, I can take you two to Hawaii!"

"I remember you going to Hawaii," Horatio said. "When you were younger. I remember you telling me a little bit about your dad's best friend"

"Kawehi?" Kai asked. "Oh yeah," she said, smiling at the memory. "Him and daddy hung out all the time! He was so cool. Daddy said I couldn't have sweets, but Kawehi always made sure I had some! He was a pretty cool guy; I leaned on him a lot after dad died. He made me a bracelet once- Daddy designed it and Kawehi made it. I don't wear it at all since the day that crap went down. I love it, because it's a piece of my dad, but not it's kind of tainted..." she said, sadly.

The kids heard the sadness in her voice. They went to her side and hugged her. "Didn't you have a stepdad, too?" Bella asked. "One that got you into being a CSI?"

"I did," Kai said sighing. "The day Speedle died was the way Noah died. Noah didn't clean his gun unless he had to, so from him I learned to always make sure mine was clean. When Speedle died I was there with him; it gave me flashbacks, and I couldn't talk about it. I tried to stay calm, and I continued on with what I was doing and make the arrest, but I went home that night and told mama about it..." She broke off, shaking her head; the memories were too much for her to handle.

Calleigh and Horatio looked at each other, both worried she was going to have another setback. They watched her carefully for a minute, relieved when she finally snapped out of it. "Sorry, guys," Kai said. "I don't talk about Noah often; he was a good man."

The twins felt bad for bringing up the subject. "We're sorry mama" Kani said. "We just wanted to know about him; we didn't mean to make you sad."

"It's okay," Kai said. "I know H has been wondering for a while. He's never brought it up; I figured he's wanted to but was unsure of how to approach it." She looked at him.

Horatio nodded; she had gotten it right. "I didn't want to upset you- by asking," Horatio said. "I had a feeling when Speedle died, it triggered something for you. But I never pushed you to talk about it"

"You could've," Kai said. "I would've told you. Mama had a hard time accepting it as well. We both did eventually accept it. But being there when Speedle died just brought it all back to the surface." She paused for a minute, then brightened. "But! I've come this far, and it's not going to bring me down anymore. So let's get past the rest of this year, and move on. I'm sure there's going to be a trial for you know who. I'm still not ready to be in the courtroom with him, and I'm not putting the twins through that."

"Well on a positive note," Horatio said, "I did turn in papers from your therapist stating you aren't to be in the same room as him. So neither you or the kids will have to go to court, but you three will each need to write a statement about him"

"I can do that," Kai said. "I'll have the twins write theirs too and you can turn them in for us."

"So- on a lighter note," Calleigh interjected, hoping to lighten the mood, "what's the Christmas plan? Are you guys staying here? Or...?"

"Well, that's up to H," Kai said. "If we do go anywhere, it's going to be one of two places, either Hawaii or New York. I would love to go to Hawaii. I want to visit my dad's grave. I want to show the kids a lūʻau. Oh, they are so much fun! And if we do go we'll have to get Hawaiian shirts for the guys here and floral dresses for Bella and I!"

Horatio smiled to himself. He couldn't wait to show Kai the tickets he had purchased to take the family to Hawaii over Christmas break.

Kai looked over at Horatio. "Babe..." she said. "Can we go to Hawaii for Christmas?"

"Maybe," Horatio said, keeping a poker face. "Just maybe we will Kai. We will see"

"H," Kai said. "When you retire, I would like to go to Hawaii. I feel like it's time to be there."

"I will go anywhere you want to go," Horatio said. "Hawaii, New York, Alaska, Georgia, wherever."

"I don't really see you going back to New York, H," Kai explained. "I loved Alaska, but, I don't know...I just really want to go to Hawaii. I miss it." She sighed. "Anyway- we should go to bed. It's been a long day. And, it's going to be a crazy month. And then, before you know it, it's going to be Christmas and we need gifts...what do you want for Christmas, H?"

"I don't need anything," Horatio said. "I have all I want and need right here- you, the kids."

Kai nodded. "But I still want to get you something," she told him and smiled. "I have an idea; I'll have to go to the craft store tomorrow."

Horatio laughed and kissed her, and they both went to bed for the night. He couldn't wait to surprise Kai with the tickets to Hawaii. He decided he would show them to her the first of December and as soon as the kids went on break they would go for the full two weeks. They'd celebrate Christmas would be after they got home.

The rest of November came and went in a blink of an eye. Before long it was time for the bake sale, then Thanksgiving break. The day before Thanksgiving; Kai and Calleigh were in the kitchen with Kani. They worked on making pies and other things that could be made and chilled the day before; including lasagna, the biggest job. It was a long day, and a lot of work, but working together having each other to talk to made it go by quickly.

Thanksgiving day was the busiest for the three of them. Kai was up around five a.m. making cannolis, risotto and other things. Dinner was served around three p.m. Everyone enjoyed it. Kai made up a few plates and took them to MDPD for those that were working. They smiled at Kai and thanked her for the food.

As she was leaving the MDPD she ran into Max Valera. "Hey! I have a plate of food for you in the car," she told her.

"Oh you didn't have to do that!" Valera said. "I brought a sandwich"

"No, no sandwich for you! Not on Thanksgiving!" Kai told her. "I brought you enough food for a couple of days, so please just enjoy it. Happy Thanksgiving Max. If you ever want to hang out, call me."

"I will do that!" Valera said. "Thanks Kai, and Happy Thanksgiving to you too. Stay safe my friend."

Kai hugged her and left the station. She noticed there was still one more plate in the car. She was unsure of who it was for, until s he saw the name. "Walter..Walter..do I know him?" she asked herself, going back inside and almost ran into him. "Oh!"

He looked around hearing a voice; he saw foil then saw Kai. "Oh!" Walter said. "I'm so sorry! Horatio called and said his wife was bringing food. You must be Kailani. I'm Walter Simmons"

"Yes," Kai said. "I'm Kailani Caine. I hope you enjoy this food, it's a little bit of American and Italian food mixed."

"Thank you so much" Walter said. "Horatio talks about you all the time. He raves about your cooking all the time"

Kai blushed. "Thank you," she said. "That means a lot to me. In case you didn't hear or know, I was injured recently. Delko shot me-long story- and I only have 80% range of motion. Delko wasn't the first one to shoot me in the shoulder, but he's going to be the last." she explained. "Anyway it was nice to meet you Walter; I'm sure I'll see you again. Happy Thanksgiving!"

"Happy Thanksgiving," Walter said. "Thanks again for the food, it smells amazing!"

Kai nodded and waved and left MDPD. She sighed deeply before getting into the car, then started to drive home. As she drove home she replayed the visit in her mind. PD had changed since she was last there. She liked the changes, it looked nice. Once she was home she sat in the car for a few minutes before going inside. "I'm home" she called out, coming through the door.

"Mom! Mom!" Bella said running up to her. "Come to the living room!!" She took her mom's hand.

Kai took off her shoes and came inside. She looked at the flag Bella had made, and smiled. "Buon Ringraziamento mamma" Kai said to the flag. ("Happy Thanksgiving mama") "Alright Bella, come on"

They walked into the living room together. Isabella told her mom to sit on the couch, and that she would be right back. Calleigh was on the couch as well, although she was mostly there to capture Kai's reaction.

"What's going on?" Kai asked Calleigh, puzzled.

Calleigh shrugged distracting Kai from the sight of Horatio and the kids coming out of the bedrooms with candy leis. Calleigh turned her phone to camera and started to record. "Turn around and look" Calleigh told Kai.

Kai turned and saw her husband and kids dressed in clothes for a luau. She gasped. "Oh! H!" she said, looking at them and trying not to cry. "Are we really going to Hawaii?"

"We are," Horatio said. "We're going for the full two weeks the kids have off of school. We'll do Christmas when we get back. It's time to see where we're going to retire to."

Kai got up from the couch and hugged Horatio while crying. "Really?!" she asked. "Oh H! I'm so happy!! Thank you!" Then she kissed him.

Horatio kissed her back and hugged her close. "I'm glad you're happy," he said. "I knew it was time when you asked to go. I have had these tickets for a while already; I bought them before Halloween. I just let the kids know about the trip today, while you were gone. Calleigh's going to take my place for a couple of weeks while we're gone. This is going to be our first family vacation."

"Oh my boys look so good in Hawaiian shirts!" Kai said. "Bella, you are so beautiful in that dress!! I can't wait to feel the sand beneath my toes!"

"Mama," Kani said. "We have sand here, we go to the beach here sometimes. What makes Hawaii's sand different?"

"You just have to feel it," Kai said. "It's hard to explain. It's just different"

"We can't wait to go, mama," Bella said. "Dad said one thing you're going to do while we're in Hawaii is visit your dad's grave. Is that right?"

"I am, Bella," Kai said. "I haven't been to his grave in a long time, and it's time. I know he would love you guys so much...I wish.."

"You wish what mama?" Kani asked.

"I wish," Kai said. "I wish my dad was still alive to meet you guys. He would give you the biggest bear hug...I miss those hugs"

Horatio smiled. "Your dad's best friend," he said. "is making your Christmas gifts from me to you"

"Kawehi?" Kai asked, surprised. "Really? He was always so sweet to me..." she remembered. "Oh! I have an idea!"

Kai ran to the bedroom and got a little boombox and a tape that had Hawaiian music on it. It had been a long time since she had hula danced but she was going to do her best to show off for her kids. Bella and Kani watched her, smiling. Kailani got lost in music, finding the rhythm and started to dance, forgetting everything and everyone around her. Everyone watched in awe as she danced.

Once the music ended, she looked up and smiled. Everyone's jaw had dropped. Not even Horatio had seen her dance like that; he liked what he saw.

Whoa..." Bella said. "Can you teach me that, mama? That was so cool!!"

Everyone agreed with Bella. "I didn't know you could dance like that!" Horatio said.

"It's not something I show everyone," Kai said. "But I enjoy it. I learned while I was in Hawaii for the year I lived with my dad..and he also taught me how to do it."

"I can't wait!" Isabella said. "Can boys hula too?"

"Of course they can!" Kai told her. "Both boys and girls can hula!" She showed them some of the basic steps and encouraged Calleigh to join them.

Calleigh turned off the camera to her phone and went to join the three of them. Horatio sat to watch them. This was a different side of Kai he had never seen. She lit up like a Christmas tree showing off her Hawaiian side to the kids and Calleigh.

The house was filled with laughter and dancing. It was music to Horatio's ears to hear his wife laugh and be silly with the kids. He loved her and the kids with all his heart; she lit up his life.

Soon it was time for parent/teacher conferences. Kai found out both kids were doing very well in their classes. She decided that night was going to be a special dinner for them, to celebrate their surviving the first half of they school year. She talked to the principal; who thought about an assembly on the last day of school and early dismissal after the assembly. Mrs. Garcia asked Kai to do the hula, and thought about asking Calleigh and Horatio to talk about the life of a CSI.

"I can help with that too," Kai told Mrs. Garcia "I'm a retired CSI, I retired as a Captain"

"Oh!" Mrs. Garcia said. "That's awesome! Do you have to change into any outfits for the hula?"

"Yes," Kai told her. "I can speak with Horatio and Calleigh for about thirty minutes. Then I'll change, and we'll finish up the assembly with the hula and I can help kids get ready to go home."

"Mrs. Caine," Mrs. Garcia said gratefully. "You have been such a big help this year! I hope you and your family enjoy your holiday break"

"We will," Kai said. "Horatio is taking us to Hawaii. It's the kids' first time and I'm no stranger to Hawaii. I grew up there, and in New York. My father was Hawaiian. So I will be visiting his grave while we're there"

"Oh!" Mrs. Garcia said. "I bet your dad would've loved your kids!"

"I know he would've!" Kai said. "They would've not only know, Italian but Hawaiian too. It's my fault they don't know that, really"

"They learned exactly what they needed to learn," Mrs. Garcia reassured her. "There is nothing wrong with not knowing everything. They are delightful kids, and a pleasure to have in class. I cannot wait to see what they do with their lives."

Kai smiled. "Yes, neither can we," she told the principal. "We're excited to see how life will turn out for them. Thank you again. We'll go to the book fair now, then go home. Have a great rest of your day!"

She took the kids to the book fair in the library. It was nice to hear that their teachers liked them. "Hey," Kai said to the kids. "What would you like for dinner tonight?"

"You don't have anything planned?" Kani asked.

"No," she said. "Nothing is planned. Tonight is a special night. You got your books?"

"Yes!" Isabella said coming over with a stack of books. "I got mine"

"Me too!" Kani said. "I'm not even sure, what I want to eat, though."

Kai smiled. "Alright," she told him. "We'll go ask dad too. We'll make it a family decision"

They nodded and smiled at her. "Okay mama!" they said in unison. They went to the checkout counter and bought their books, then went home.

Once home the kids put their books away. Kai looked around for takeout menus; they rarely got takeout, but she was able to find a few tucked away in a drawer. The twins looked through the menus and found what they wanted, deciding on Mexican food for dinner that night.

Kai called Horatio and asked him what he wanted from the Mexican restaurant for dinner. "Can you ask Calleigh too?" Kai asked him.

"Hold on, Kai," Horatio said. "Here she comes. Ma'am," he said to Calleigh. "Kai would like to know what you would like from the Mexican place. Tonight is a celebration!"

"Oh! Really? Hmm, well," Calleigh said. "I think a taco salad would be in order!"

Kai laughed, overhearing Calleigh. "You got it," Kai said. "Sounds like taco salads all around tonight! See you guys later on! Love you!"

"Love you too" Horatio and Calleigh said in unison as Horatio hung up.

Horatio smiled. "Ever since I told Kai we were going to Hawaii for Christmas," Horatio said. "she's been so excited. And when she did the hula in the living room it was like a whole other side of her came out. She was so happy to do it"

"She lit up like a Christmas tree," Calleigh agreed. "And speaking of trees, are you guys going to get one and put it up? I kinda went shopping for everyone for Christmas already, I'll be working so it will be okay."

"I think we're going shopping tomorrow," Horatio said. "Unless they went shopping already without me! And if they did, I don't mind, I don't really need a Christmas gift, my beautiful Kai and the kids are all I need."

Meanwhile, at home, Kai was sitting at the dining room table putting the finishing touches on the scrapbook she made for Horatio. It contained copies of all the pictures from their childhood to the present day. She had also included a few photos of her stepdad when she first became a CSI.

"What are you making mama?" Bella asked. "Is it for us?"

"No, silly girl," Kai said. "I would've shooed you away if it was. It's Horatio's Christmas gift. I know he said he didn't want anything, but there are of me that he's never seen. I just bought the book and stuff to decorate it, but the pictures are one that I've always had. Now, you can't tell him Bella, " She cautioned Bella. "It's supposed to be a surprise."

"I won't, mama," Bella promised. "He'll love it, I know he will"

Kai smiled. "Thanks kiddo," she said. "I should clean up before H gets home"

As she was cleaning up she came across a letter she had never seen before. It wasn't from either of her parents. It looked to be Horatio's handwriting. 'When did I get this?' she asked herself. She kept the letter out, and put the rest of the things away.

Kai took the letter into the living room and sat on the couch to read it. From the first word she realized it wasn't a letter from Horatio but from her grandfather, on her dad's side. She thought he had never liked her. As she read it she teared up.

The twins were on the floor watching TV and looked over. "Mama?" Kani said. "What's wrong?"

"Oh.." Kai said softly. "I'm just reading a letter from my kupuna kāne." (grandpa) "All this time I thought he never liked me because of my makuahine, (mother) but it turns out he wishes he had gotten to know me more before he passed away. I don't know how I never saw this letter until now"

As Kai sat on the sofa, pondering the letter, Horatio and Calleigh came in with the food. "We're home!" Calleigh said.

The twins ran to help. "Mama's crying" Kani said.

"Is she hurt?" Horatio asked, very concerned. "Kai?" he called.

"I'm fine," Kai told him, drying her eyes. "I found an old letter from my grandpa and read it. I didn't even know I had it until today"

"Funny," Horatio said. " It's odd how things show up when we least expect them, or when we need them to."

Kai nodded in agreement. Everyone sat down to eat. Kai told Horatio and Calleigh what Mrs. Garcia asked her to pass along to them, and both agreed.

"Do we get to see you dressed up like Calleigh, mama?" Isabella asked. "I think you would look amazing in a pantsuit.

"Yes," Kai said. "Though I think I need to go get a new pantsuit, I gave all of them away when I retired. AND I need to bring my hula things to school, too"

The twins were so excited to have all three adults there. They all sat and talked as they ate. It was a big night for the twins, and they were having a blast hanging out. There was talk of going to Hawaii with Horatio every year. as a family tradition.

"I think," Horatio said, "that would be a great idea. That way you and your mom have something to look forward to, and she'll be able to visit her dad's grave more often."

Kai was beaming. "Horatio," Kai said looking at him, her eyes full of love. "Have I told you lately how proud I am to be your wife?"

"Kai," Horatio said. "Kai, you tell me all the time. I will never stop loving you, or get tired of hearing you say it."

The time passed quickly, and soon it was time for Christmas break. The day before Christmas break was exciting for both the kids and the adults. Kai was getting ready to go up to the school, as were Horatio and Calleigh.

"I can't believe we leave for Hawaii tomorrow morning!!!" Bella said. "So early!! Dad, why did it have to be so early...?"

"Sorry, Bella," Horatio said. "It was the only time I could get a flight. And we have a lot to do tonight, getting ready."

"Yes, we do," Kai said, coming out of the bedroom. "How do I look? Do I look okay? Why are you staring at me? Do I have something on me?"

Horatio looked at her his eyes full of love. "Kai," he said. "Kai you look amazing. I forgot how amazing you look in pantsuits."

Calleigh came out of the bedroom and looked at Kai. "Wow!" Calleigh said. "You are...wow!"

Kai blushed. "Thanks, you two," Kai said. "Kids? How do I look?"

"Beautiful!" Kani said. "Wow! You look beautiful mama"

"Wow!" Bella said. "Just wow!"

"Alright," Kai said. "It's early dismissal, so let's go do our best today!"

Horatio, Kai and the kids got into one car. Calleigh got into her own car and they all drove to the school. Kai stored her stuff in the office for later. The three CSIs walked around the school. Kai visited the kindergarten classes. She missed the twins being that little.

"Teacher!! Teacher!! Her's a cop!" a little girl said. "Her's so pretty!!"

Kai smiled and sat on the floor with the kids. "Yes, I was a cop!" she told the little girl. "And you are so pretty, too!"

She sat there for a bit as the kindergarteners flocked to her and gave her lots of hugs. Kai smiled. "Oh, you guys are so sweet! Mmm, I will come visit you guys again after the new year!" Kai got up and smiled at them. "You guys have a good holiday!"

Kai left the room and went to find Horatio and Calleigh. Then they all went together to find the twins and sat with them to have lunch. They talked about the holiday and the flight to Hawaii.

After lunch the kids went back to their classrooms and the three CSIs went to the gym to sit and wait. The kids were then called down to the gym to sit for the assembly. As Kani and Bella filed into the gym, they passed Kani's original teacher, Ms. Nelson. She shot Kani a dirty look as he enter the gym, then turned to speak to another teacher. "There's the little Italian brat and his sister," Kani overheard her say, and his face fell. "That's the little shit that got me in trouble with administration, and nearly got me fired," she continued. "I'd smack the crap out of him, if I thought I could get away with it."

Kani, upset, broke out of line and ran to Kailani stood, taking her heels off in preparation for her hula demonstration. "Mama," he said, in tears, "My old teacher Ms. Nelson just talked bad about me and called me a name- a bad word."

Kai knelt down next to him, shocked. "Are you serious, Kani? What did she say?"

Kani recounted tearfully what he had overheard. "It was right over there," he told Kai, turning to point towards the end of the bleachers, where Ms. XXX and her fellow teacher stood talking.

"I heard it too, mama," Isabella said, joining them. "Teachers aren't supposed to talk about kids that way, are they?"

"No," Kai said, furious, the mama bear in her coming out. "They aren't." She stormed over to where Ms. Nelson stood, and tapped her sharply on the shoulder, interrupting her conversation. "Excuse me, are you Ms. Nelson?" she asked.

Ms. Nelson turned around and looked Kai up and down. "Yes. And you are...?"

Kai drew herself to her full height. "I'm Mrs. Caine. Kalani's mother. And I hear you've been badmouthing my son and calling him names. A 'brat' and a 'little shit', apparently."

Ms. Nelson's face flushed, but she didn't back down. "I said no such thing. I'd never speak that way about a student."

A girl two rows back in the bleachers, who had been listening, stood up. "She did too!" she insisted helpfully, looking at Kai. "She called him a...a bad word. I heard it!"

"Me too!" a little boy in the next row piped up.

Ms. Nelson turned around, angry. "Sit down, you little tattletale!" she hissed at the little girl. She turned on Kai, defiant. "And it's not my fault your little brat is a show off, spouting off in Italian, trying to impress everybody!"

Kai could barely hold her temper. "My son is not a showoff, and you have no right to behave this way. I'm going to take this up with the principal right now, and you're coming with me to explain yourself," she said, and took Ms. Nelson's wrist.

"I'm not going anywhere," Ms. Nelson barked. "I'm so sick of you people; I don't know why you don't just go back where you came from." She tugged at her wrist; when Kai wouldn't release her she reared back and shoved Kai, as hard as she could, pushing her into a cluster of teachers and students.

"That's it!" Kai snapped, righting herself. "Bella," she called to her daughter, "go get H's cuffs." She grabbed Ms. Nelson's wrists, tighter this time.

Isabella got up and went to Horatio for his cuffs. "Mama's super mad," Bella said. "Ms. Nelson called Kani bad names, and then when Mama went to talk to her about it, she shoved Mama."

Horatio, worried, looked over to where Kai stood, relieved when he ascertained that was mad but unharmed. "Mama bear mode," he told Bella, "Activated. She just made a HUGE mistake. I'm coming with you." He gathered the cuffs and everything else and followed Bella to where Ms. Nelson stood, still arguing and trying to pull out of Kai's grip.

Mrs. Garcia and Mr. Suzuki saw the ruckus and came over quickly. "What's happening here?" Mrs. Garcia asked.

Kai filled her in quickly, as Horatio took over with the cuffs. "What's happening here," Horatio added, "is, your Ms. Nelson's being arrest for assault."

Mrs. Garcia frowned and crossed her arms. "And I'm afraid you're also going to be suspended from teaching, until we get to the bottom of this."

Ms. Nelson wriggled as Horatio cuffed her. "Stupid immigrants," she spat. "They're the reason this country's going to hell in a handbasket."

Mr. Suzuki blinked surprised. "Does that include me? I'm from Japan, and we've worked together for years." Ms. Nelson, being towed away by Horatio and read her Miranda rights, didn't answer. "Wow," Mr. Suzuki said shaking his head. "You think you know people, and..." he shrugged, disappointed.

Kai knelt down with Bella and Kani to comfort them, as Horatio called for a squad car to come pick Ms. Nelson up. "Unit's on the way," Horatio called back to them.

Kai turned to Mrs. Garcia. "I'm going to talk to Kani and Bella for a minute; Horatio will sit on Ms. Nelson until the squad car arrives." She glided up to the bleachers, which were in a bit of an uproar. "Could you go calm the crow down, please?"

"I'm on it," Mrs. Garcia said. She went over and stood in front of the bleachers; the kids saw her and everyone got quiet. "Great job on settling down" she praised them. "Let's talk about it."

A third grader raised his hand. "Ma'am," he asked. "Why don't she like people that aren't like her?"

"I do not know," Mrs. Garcia said. "But, I promise you after the new year she will not be here. Mr. Suzuki, are you okay?"

"Yes, ma'am" Mr. Suzuki said. "I'm fine, it's the kids I'm worried about."

The squad cars were there in no time at all with Walter and Ryan walking in. "Hey Kai," Ryan said. "Where's the perp?"

"I've got her over here," Horatio called.

Meanwhile, Kai talked with Bella and Kani. She knelt down. "How are you doing bud?" she asked Kani. "I know your feelings were hurt, and I'm sorry that happened. I have to talk to Ryan for a minute, okay?"

He nodded. "Okay, mama," he said drying his eyes.

"She's the one that made me sit down on the first day of school," he added. "It's why I wanted to go home so badly.

"Oh, baby," Kai sai softly. "I'm so sorry I didn't listen to you, but you know what? If you hadn't stayed, Calleigh would never have come to get you. And you wouldn't have gotten to stay home, AND you wouldn't have gotten the awesome new teacher you have now. Your first teacher is a very mean person, and I'm sorry she treated you that way. You're lucky my super powers still work."

Kani looked back at Walter. "Can I hug my mom now?" he asked. I really need her hug."

"Of course, big man," Walter said. "Hug away,"

The three men walked to the door as Kailani hugged her son.

Horatio took Kani and Bella back to the gym, while Kai gave a brief statement to Ryan. Meanwhile, Calleigh was talking about what happened with the students. Before long Horatio, Kani, and Bella were back in their seats, and Kai went into the girls' locker room and changed into her hula outfit.

Mrs. Garcia had seen Kai slip into the girls' locker room, and waited for Calleigh to finish. Once Calleigh sat down, Mrs. Garcia gave a big smile. "Alright boys and girls!" she said. "We have a very special dance for you today. Kalani and Isabella Caine's mom is going to dance the hula for you! I hope you enjoy it!"

Kai slipped out, and got to where she need to be. 'Here I go' she thought to herself. 'Daddy, if there is ever a time I needed you, now is it.'

Mrs. Garcia put on the CD, and the music started. Kai felt the rhythm of the music and started to dance.

Everyone was so captivated by the dance that Kai forgot she was in a school. She performed beautifully, the smell of the bonfires and the sound of the drums in her head. At the end of the dance, she said. "Aloha Kalikimaka" ("Have a great Christmas).

All the kids and adults stood up, clapping for Kai, and she smiled and bowed. "Thank you, and Merry Christmas," said said, going to Horatio.

Mrs. Garcia took Ms. Nelson's class back to their room and got them ready to go for the day, as the other teachers took their students back to class.

Meanwhile down at PD Walter was trying to talk to Ms. Nelson. "Why would you threaten a student, and push a police officer?" Walter asked her.

She spit at him. "I refuse to talk to you!" she said. "Bring me someone else"

Ryan was waiting outside for Walter as he came out. "Hey man," Walter said already steamed. "I don't think I can do this"

"It's alright man," Ryan said. "I already texted Horatio, he'll be here soon. She can sit there for now"

Horatio whispered to Kai that he needed to go in. "Okay go," Kai said kissing his cheek. "We'll go home and get ready. Calleigh, can the twins and I catch a ride with you?"

"Of course!" Calleigh said. "Let's go! I'm going to follow Horatio in after I drop you off"

Kai hugged Calleigh. "You are amazing!" she told her. "Thanks Calleigh, for being an amazing friend."

Calleigh smiled, and they all left to go home. Calleigh dropped them off. Kai and the kids went into the house, and they all were super excited.

"This is it, babies!" Kai said. "Tonight is the night you're going to Hawaii!! Oh! I can't wait to show you everything! Kani, you no longer have to worry about Ms. Nelson! Babies, I'm so happy right now! You cannot fathom how happy I am! Let's get packing, get the tree up and decorated, then have our dinner and baths. But, you won't be going to bed tonight, you can sleep on the plane."

The kids nodded and got everything done. They were just wrapping up when Horatio and Calleigh came in for the night. Calleigh would be taking everyone to the airport early in the morning. They packed a bag so the kids would have everything they needed to stay busy on the plane.

In the morning, at the airport, Kai, Horatio, and the kids boarded the plane. They found their seats, Horatio was in the aisle next to Kai the kids.

The plane departed from the gate. Kai held the kids' hands and looked over at Horatio, smiling. She couldn't believe her little family was going to Hawaii for Christmas break. As the plane took off she felt the rush of the warm island air and the smells. Kai couldn't wait to introduce H and the kids to Hawaii. And most importantly, she couldn't wait for H to retire, so they could go back to Hawaii full time.

Kai slept on and off during the flight. She had felt the island spirit before they landed.

She woke the kids and Horatio about twenty minutes before touch down. "Hey guys," she said. "Wake up. We're almost there"

They were a bit groggy from sleeping the whole way from Miami to Kona. When the flight attendant got on the PA it was a little loud for them. "Ladies and gentlemen, we will be landing in Kona International Airport shortly. The flight attendants will come around and pick up trash from the flight. Please enjoy your time here in Kona, and thanks again for flying with us, here on Kona Airlines."

Once they touched down and everyone was getting their things, Kai waited for the other passengers to get off the plane before the kids and Horatio got off the plane.

She got up and stretched. "Mmm, I forgot how long that flight was!" she said. "Welcome to Kona! This is where my dad was from, this is where I used to come a lot..oh I have to use the restroom! Let's go babies before they have a puddle to clean up!"

Horatio got their bags and walked them off the plane. "It's warm," Horatio said. "Warmer than Miami"

"Yes, it is!" Kai said spotting the bathroom. "Come on Bella!" They went into the bathroom and came out a couple of moments later, letting the boys use the bathroom as well.

No one expected the surprise at the luggage claim. Kawehi was waiting for them with a sign that said "Caine". Kai's eyes went wide, and she ran to him. "Kawehi!" she said hugging him tight. "It's been so long!! May I introduce you to my children- Kalani, and Isabella Caine. And my best friend and husband, Horatio Caine"

Kawehi had leis for them and a flower for Kai. He brushed Kai's hair aside and put it behind her ear. "Welina mai i ka home," he said hugging her again. ("Welcome home little one") "It's nice to meet you all"

Horatio got the luggage, and shook Kawehi's hand. "You didn't have to do this," he told Kawehi. "We could've just rented a car"

"No," he said. "This is Kalani's daughter, nothing but the best for her and her family!"

"Hey...that's my name" Kani said. "Mama...?"

"I named you after my dad, my grandfather, and Horatio," Kai told him. "It was to honor my family"

"Wow..." Kani said. "I was named after my grandpa..., I bet he was a great man!"

"Yes, you were, and yes he was" Kai said. "Here in Hawaii, family is important. My father was important to me, and so was my grandpa. And Horatio has always been important to me, so it made sense"

Horatio smiled. "Am I to assume you'll take us to the hotel?" he asked Kawehi. "I'm sure Kai would like to rest, and I have a debt to pay"

"I am a little tired," Kai admitted. "Getting everything ready and decorating for Christmas before hopping on a plane is exhausting!"

"Excuse me, Kawhei," Kani said. "I'm sorry I messed up your name...and I wanted to tell you, that mama did the hula for our school!"

"She did?!" Kawehi asked. "Don't worry about messing up my name, it's not easy to say. So you can call me Kae, if that makes it easier Kalani"

"Kae, Kae..." Kani said testing it out. "Yes that is much easier, thank you. Could you call me Kani please?"

"Of course I can!" Kae said. "I hope somewhere in your day you all find the time to take a nap, because there is a luau tonight!"

"I love luaus," Kai said getting in the car. "It will be nice to attend one again; it's been so long! Now- you three can explore the island with Kawehi if you wish. But I'm going to have a nap"

"Kai," Horatio said, worried. "Kai are you sure about this? Are you sure you don't want us in the hotel with you?"

"Well," she said. "H, you may want to change from what you are wearing to something cooler, like shorts. If you guys are still tired, we can all nap together instead."

"I think," he said, "a nap for all of us would be in order. What time is the luau?"

"It starts at 6," Kawehi said. "I'll let everyone know that Kalani's little girl has come home"

"Just for a couple of weeks Kae," Kai said. "I brought my husband and kids to explore Hawaii on their Christmas break from school"

He smiled. "Yes," he said. "The island has a way of calling you home"

"It does," she agreed. "It really does! Thank you for the ride, and thank you for picking us up Uncle, it means a lot"

"You're welcome," Kawehi said. "You look so beautiful, and your family is beautiful too. I'll see you later tonight"

"Yes, you will," Kai said. "Yes you will, and thank you again" The four of them went into the hotel and checked in.

"Name on the reservation?" the front desk clerk asked.

"Horatio Caine," Horatio said, watching her. "For a total of four"

The clerk looked at him, then at Kailani. "Hey, I know you!" she said. "Your picture is in the temple, next to your dad's!"

"Why is my picture in the temple?" Kai asked, puzzled and a little irritable. "I haven't died, I'm standing right here!"

"Obviously" the clerk said. "Kawehi said your father's spirit called out for you, but you weren't here...so he took a picture of you, when you were a teenager and left it in the temple for him to always have you around"

"That's nice and all, but you know what? I'm way too tired for this!" Kai snapped at the clerk. "Look! Right now I give no shits. I've been awake over 24 hours, and I would just like to sleep! Please, finish checking us in and give us our room key!"

Horatio and the kids stared at her. They knew she didn't get this angry unless she was really tired. The clerk finished checking them in and gave them the key, which was to the penthouse. Kawehi had upgraded them, since he owned the hotel.

The four of them got to the elevator and filed in quietly. As Kai hit the button, she looked at the key. "H," Kai said a little more calmly. "Did you pay for the penthouse?"

"No," Horatio said. "I paid for a room on the second floor..how did we get the penthouse?"

"Kawehi," she said. "Welcome to his hotel. He's had this place since I was a kid. I'll talk to him later about it, I'm to tried too tired fight with anyone right now"

They all got off the elevator and got to the door, and Kai looked around. "It has changed so much," Kai said. "Let's go in." She tapped the card on the card reader and opened the door. When they looked in they saw balloons.

The kids and Horatio went in first, leaving Kai to look around. "ʻO kuʻu akua ʻakaʻaka..ʻAʻole wau i manaʻoʻiʻo i kēia!" she said. ("Oh my fucking god..I don't believe this!")

The three of them looked at her. Since none of them knew Hawaiian, they had no idea what she was saying. "What's wrong, Mama?" Kani asked. "I think it's a nice room!"

"Yeah!" Isabella said. "I really like it! Please don't make us move rooms!!"

She went off on a tangent with her Hawaiian. Horatio did pick up bits and pieces of her tone which told him she wasn't happy about the the surprise in the room, or being bumped to the penthouse.

"E hele wāwae ana au, e hoʻi au!" Kai said. ("I'm going for a walk, I'll be back!) She grabbed the key and headed out.

The twins looked confused. "What's wrong with her Dad?" Isabella asked. "I've never seen her quite like this"

"I don't know," Horatio said. "I think the clerk upset her. But we'll wait here until she comes back"

A couple of hours later she came back, she was calmer. "Mama!!" Kani said. "We were worried about you"

"I'm okay," she said softly. "I had a long talk with my dad; I needed to. I also need to sleep. So- if you want to explore the island you can, don't let me stop you guys"

"Are you sure?" Horatio asked. "Are you sure about us going out without you?"

"Of course!" Kai said. "It's your vacation too! And yes, H, you needed a vacation. You work so hard! Oh, and H..Kawehi, he's a good guy. He hasn't seen me since Jonathan was put in jail. I talked to him too. He would like to apologize for everything; he insisted we keep the penthouse."

"Kai," he said. "To be honest, I'm a little jealous of him. It felt like he was being too friendly with you. I'm not okay with that, but I will do my best to tone it down, for you. I know you consider him family. Thank you for talking to him; I will do my best to get to know him."

Kai laid the keycard on the night table and went to get her pajamas on. When she came back the kids and Horatio were changed and ready to go out. Horatio took her in his arms and kissed her. "I love you," Horatio said. "I love you very much"

She smiled at him, and kissed him back. "I love you too. Enjoy the island. Remember to save room for the luau"

Horatio nodded. "We will," he told her. "We'll remember that"

The three of them left to explore the island without Kai. It felt odd not having her there with them to explore and telling them about different parts of the island. The first stop they made was to visit Kawehi. Horatio was going to pay for the bracelets. Horatio asked where they could find him, and one of the locals took him to see Kawehi.

Kawehi was talking with some of the others about the luau that night, when he saw Horatio and the kids. "Aloha!" Kawehi said. "Did you come for Kai's gifts?"

"Yes," Horatio said. "Yes, I did. And I want to apologize to you about what happened at the airport"

"Don't worry about it," Kawehi said. "I was her keeper whenever she would come to the island- Kai leaned on me a lot when her dad died; they were very close. She calls me uncle because that's how she saw me, how she sees me. I'm not out to take her away from you or to harm her. She's family, you're family. I love her like she's my own child. And I made a promise to her dad to always be there for her, whenever she needed me."

Horatio and the kids listened to what he had to say. "Can you tell us more about Mama?" Bella asked. "What was she like when she was here?"

"Your mom was, and still is, a free spirit," Kawehi said. "She was dedicated to her studies, and she did well in school. Stood up for those that were bullied. Hula, was her passion when she was here; Kalani was always teaching her how to hula. He would always tell her, 'One day the student will out perform the teacher.' And when that day came, he wore the biggest smile I had ever seen."

"So she got even better at hula than her dad?" Bella asked. "Really?"

"She sure did," Kawehi told her, smiling. He looked across the room, out through the glass door, where some tropical flower were growing in the garden. "Hey, why don't you two go pick some flower for your mama?" he suggested to the kids, gesturing outside.

"Yeah!" Kani said. "She'd love that. Come on, Bella," he said, leading her out into the garden.

When they were gone, Kawehi turned to Horatio. "Okay, now that it's just us grownups...something I didn't think the kids needed to hear. Kai's temper, though...it's gets out of control. When she knew her dad way dying, everyone was at fault; she was mad at the world. He was her best friend. And when he died, she stayed for his funeral, and then she became very withdrawn, very quiet. And suicidal. She didn't want to be here anymore, without her dad..."

"That was the first time," Horatio asked. "that she tried to commit suicide?"

"Yes," Kawehi confirmed. "Pills, that was her choice"

Horatio frowned, hearing this. "Who found her?" he asked. "What happened?"

"My sister did," Kawehi said. "She rushed her to the ER to have her stomach pumped, and when Kailani could leave Hawaii my sister..." He stopped as the twins ran back inside, arms full of plumeria blossoms. "Heyyy!" he said to them. "You picked some great ones, your Mama will love those!" He smiled at mussed Kani's hair. "Anyway, your timing is perfect; I was getting to the good part of the story, where your mama went back to New York."

"Cool!" Bella and Kani said in unison.

"Sit," Kawehi said, motioning to the big pillows on the floor.

"So...after your grandpa passed away, my sister Lokelani took your mama back to New York, to live with Nonna. Lokelani and your Mama were very close; Lokelani is ten years younger than me, and she was like an older sister to an auntie to your Mama when she was growing up."

"Where is she now?" Bella asked. "Your sister?"

"She fell in love with New York and stayed there," Kawehi said. "She comes back to the islands once in a while. I'm sure she'll be back tonight; I told her your Mama was coming back for a couple of weeks and I'm sure she booked a ticket."

Little did Kawehi know, Lokelani was just landing at the airport. She was going to be a surprise for both Kawehi and Kailani, whom she hadn't seen in years.

Lokelani took a bus to the hotel and walked from there. When she arrived she saw her brother and people she didn't know. "Aloha, Kawehi" she said going into the house.

Kawehi looked up. "Lani.." he said, going to hug her. "Aloha! You look beautiful. And I have some people for you to meet"

"Oh?" she asked, looking over and seeing the twins and Horatio.

"Lokelani," he said. "May I introduce- Isabella, Kalani, and Horatio Caine. Kailani's family"

"Kai's here?" Lani asked. "How is she? I bet she's beautiful."

"Kai is at the hotel," Horatio said. "She's sleeping; we just got in a little while ago. Kai told us to go explore the island without her."

Kani looked up at her. "Excuse me," he said. "I wanted to let you know that our mama did the hula for our school, and everyone loved it!"

"She did?!" Lokelani asked. "I wish I could've seen it. Your mama learned how to hula from her dad, your grandpa"

"Ohh, yes," Bella said. "That's what Kae was telling us! I bet he was a good man. My brother is named after him and his dad and Horatio. I'm named after my Nonna and my auntie that I don't really remember"

Lokelani smiled. "You are so beautiful," she said "I bet your Nonna is so proud of you"

"Nonna died," Kani whispered. "A few months ago. It's been really hard on Mama..."

"Oh! I didn't know..." Lani said. "I'm very sorry to hear that! Are you two okay?"

"We're okay now," Isabella said. "But mama...it was really hard. She's doing better now, but her life since we went back to Florida has been really...I don't know the word...okay I do know the word but I don't wanna get in trouble for saying it."

"Hmm," Kawehi said. "He hōʻike hōʻikeʻike?" (A shit show)

Isabella looked really confused. "Yes...?" she said. "I'm not sure what you said, but yes?"

Kawehi and Lokelani laughed and Horatio smiled. He had an idea of what it meant, but wasn't about to tell the kids. "Bella," Horatio said. "Kawehi said the bad word for you. You know you are allowed one time to swear right?"

"I know," Bella said. "But I didn't want this to be the one time I used it"

"Ah," Kawehi said. "Kalani would do the same thing. One time and after you left you can swear as much as you wanted"

"Kai told me," Horatio said. "that her and Isabella came up with that rule. But I'm guessing that, Isabella and Kalani came up with it together and used it separately, so Kai adopted it too"

"She had good parents," Lokelani said. "So, Horatio, was it? How do you know Kai?"

"Yes, it is Horatio," Horatio said. "I grew up with her, a couple of houses down, actually. The three of us, me, her, and my brother Ray. Her parents became like my parents, since mine weren't the greatest. I had much respect for the both of them. I remember how much she cried when her dad left...When she came back to New York she seemed so quiet, different. I would always sit with her and just hold her, rubbing her back, letting her cry."

"I'm glad you grew up with her," Lani said. "You knew her the best. When I took her to Isabella, I couldn't come home, I knew the island life all too well...I fell in love with New York, I have my own restaurant. I'm sure Isabella and Kai came in a few times as she was growing up. She must've forgotten, or blocked the memory of Hawaii. But when they came in I would always give them the family discount, because she's my family too."

"Ooh dad!" Bella said. "Can we go to New York for spring break?!"

Horatio smiled. "Is it because of the restaurant?" Horatio asked her. "Or do you have something else in mind?"

"Mama said she wanted to take us!" she said. "I want to go everywhere I can!"

Kani looked at his sister. "We've gone to New York," Kani said. "Mama always said we were going to see Nonna"

"Do you remember it?" Bella asked, stomping her foot at him. "Do you honestly remember going to New York with Mama to see Nonna? We remember Alaska, Florida, and NOW Hawaii!"

"Alright, Bella," Horatio said. "That's uncalled for; if you continue you won't be going to the luau tonight"

Bella looked at Horatio and sat down pouting. She felt like Kani always got his way. Kani stayed quiet; he knew better than to argue with his sister especially when he knew she was right. But he knew he was right, too.

Kawehi looked back and forth between them. "They are both so much like Kai," Kawehi said. "Bella stomps her foot like her mother, while Kani gets quiet and looks away to avoid arguing, like his mother..."

"You know what, Kani?" Bella said. "You're spoiled! And everything is your fault!!"

"Isabella..." Horatio said in a warning tone, not liking where this was going. "Stop right there, don't say another word."

Kani didn't say anything, he didn't want to fight with his sister. He looked up to Horatio for help.

"It's your fault mama lost the baby!!" Isabella continued.

Kawehi and Lokelani were shocked. They looked to Horatio, who put Isabella in the corner. "Stay there until you calm down," he told her.

Kani ran out of the house and back to the hotel. He got in the elevator and rode it up to the penthouse, then knocked on the door until Kai opened it.

When she opened the door, she looked down to see her son. "Kani.." she said, still waking up. "Where are H and Bella?"

Kani explained what had happened at Kawehi's and how Isabella was being mean to him. Kailani sighed and got dressed. She then put on her flip flops and took Kani back to Kawehi's.

Isabella was sitting in the corner, pouting when Kai came in. Kai knocked briefly before she came in, then focused her attention on Isabella and started to reprimand her in Italian.

Horatio spoke softly to Kai in Italian, telling her to stand down.

"Who started it?" Kai asked, angry. "I came here to have fun, not to have my family fight! Is it not bad enough Kani got bullied by a teacher?! I just wanted us to have a good time! I didn't want to be woken up to Kani pounding on the door of the penthouse!"

"E Kai, pono ʻoe e ʻoluʻolu a hoʻolohe iā ia. Hiki nō iā ʻoe ke leʻaleʻa...he uʻi ʻoe ke luhi ʻoe" Lani said, waiting to see how long it would take for it to click in her head who was talking. ("Kai, you need to calm down and listen to him. You can still have fun...you're a bitch when you're tired")

Kai turned to the direction of the voice and stared at Lani. "I ka manawa hea ʻoe i hoʻi mai ai? Ma hea aku nei ʻoe?! Nui koʻu hala ʻana iā ʻoe!! Pehea ka lōʻihi o kou noho ʻana ma ʻaneʻi?" she asked Lani. ("When did you get back? Where have you been?! I've missed you so much!! How long are you here for?)

"Not too long ago," Lani replied. "I'm here for a week, and I've been in New York. Remember when I took you back to your mama? I stayed, and I opened an Hawaiian restaurant. You've been in and out of there so many times. I watched over you in New York."

"Kaikuahine, ua hala au iā ʻoe" Kai said hugging her. ("Big sister, I've missed you!") "E ke Akua, ua hala au iā ʻoe" (God, I've missed you!)

"Ua minamina au iā ʻoe i ke kaikuahine" Lani said pulling back. ("I've missed you too little sister") "Ua ʻōlelo kāu kaikamahine ua loaʻa iā ʻoe nā mea he nui, he ʻoiaʻiʻo anei?" (Your daughter said you have been through a lot of stuff; is that true?")

Kai looked over to Isabella and sighed. "I'm sorry baby," Kai said softly. "I didn't mean to...come here and yell."

Isabella shook her head, she wasn't ready to go to Kai. She was still upset and scared of her mom. Kai understood and sighed.

"Kai," Horatio said. "Let's you and I go for a walk. Would you two mind watching the kids? he asked Kawehi and Lani."

"Sure," Kawehi said. "I can teach them the steps of a hula, get them a snack. It's okay, they are safe here"

"I love you two," Kai told the twins. "I love you both very much. And Bella, I'm deeply sorry baby" She turned, eyes filled with tears as Horatio took her out of the house. "I swore to myself I would never do that to them." she told Horatio. "I promised myself I'd never get so mad that I would scare them...and I just did- I'm a horrible mom. Maybe coming here was a bad idea"

Horatio listened to everything she had to say, letting her get it out. Then he looked over at her, eyes soft and sympathetic. "You aren't, a horrible mom," Horatio said. "You're jet lagged and exhausted. Isabella told Kani it was his fault you lost the baby, that was what upset him. You're a great mom. The wrong bear came out, that's all." he said trying to joke away some of her tension.

She knew he was trying to lighten the mood and sighed softly. "I'm sorry..." Kai said. "I feel horrible. But now I'm thinking this trip was really a bad idea. H, this is where it all started- the suicide attempts and everything else. There were a few times I came down to the beach while I was here, after dad came back to Hawaii. I thought it was my fault that my parents divorced. I was so upset. And I wanted to die. So, before the pills came the ocean; that was the first time I tried."

She shook her head, remembering. "When daddy died it became too much," she continued. "I didn't want to live anymore; I felt like I couldn't live without him. There are so many good memories here, but a lot of bad ones too. Maybe..maybe we can go to Georgia instead when you retire. Hawaii is a trigger and I didn't realize it. I didn't realize I needed to be distanced from my past..." She looked up at Horatio, hoping he understood.

Horatio listened to everything Kai told him. "Are you sure?" he asked her. "Are you sure you don't want to retire here? We can go wherever you want to go. New York holds memories for you; Hawaii and Alaska hold memories and secrets too, I've got a few years left before I retire Kai. We don't have to decide right now; we'll figure it out-when it comes closer to time." He kissed her forehead and held her tight, rubbing her back. "Would you please take me to the graveyard and introduce me to your dad? I would like to pay my respects to him."

Kai nodded. She took him to her father's grave and knelt down. "Hi daddy," she said. "I'm back. Horatio's with me. I'll bring the kids tomorrow. I'm sorry I was such a problem for you and mama. Your death still feels fresh to me. But, I'm not going to try to kill myself, not anymore. Horatio is here with me now. Daddy...I don't know if we can retire here. I thought we could but.." Kai sighed. "There is so much going on- And being back here is bringing back so many memories, some of them really bad. I'm afraid if I stay I'll get overwhelmed and depressed again. I don't want Horatio to find me passed out one day, or washed up on the beach. I'm sorry I was a horrible daughter. I'm sorry I'm a horrible mother. I'm sorry I was a bad wife to Eric...I'm just sorry about everything!"

Horatio listened to Kai as she spoke to her father, and thought about her concerns. All of her emotions were valid. She was showing her vulnerable side, a side he hadn't seen from her since they were kids.

Kai was on her knees, crying. "I wish you were here daddy..." she said. "I need you; I need your advice and wisdom. I need to feel your hugs, the ones that helped me make the world make sense"

Horatio put his hand on her shoulder to let her know he was still there. As he was kneeling down to hug her, he swore he felt a hand on his shoulder. It startled him and he took a couple of steps back. Maybe it was just jet lag but he could've sworn he saw Kai's dad, right there in front of him. He watched as Kai was wrapped in his arms. Horatio saw the little girl she once was; he watched her turn into the hug and take a couple of deep breaths. He heard a conversation in Hawaiian between father and daughter. This lasted a couple of minutes, and when Kai was handed back to Horatio, she was asleep in his arms.

"Kailani is a major daddy's girl" her father Kalani told him. "I know my death was hard on her, but you are taking good care of her. And I have your daughter with me; we watch over you both all the time. Hawaii isn't the place for Kai to be anymore. It's making her angry and bringing back sad memories, and she doesn't need that. This visit was a wonderful surprise. I want to meet my grandkids while you're here, but I don't expect anymore visits after that. When the week is over, take Kai home. If you don't, her temper will flare more, and it will be worse. Take care of my little girl, Horatio and I'll take care of yours." He smiled at Horatio. "Oh-by the way she has red hair like yours and Kai's brown eyes. And please tell my grandson it wasn't his fault his mother lost the baby; it just wasn't meant to be. Aloha."


"Thank you," Horatio said. "I'll take care of Kai and the kids. Give our little one a kiss for us; we miss her everyday. Aloha"

He then carried Kai back to Kawehi's, where he saw the kids practicing hula. Horatio heard Bella's laugh and smiled. Lani ran over to him. "Let's take Kai inside," Lani said. "She can lay on Kae's bed. She seems more at peace now- I'm glad she's sleeping and getting some rest. So- what happened?"

The kids looked over and saw their mom sleeping. Bella looked down. "I don't deserve to go to the luau tonight..." Bella said. "I was mean to Kani, and he had to go wake up Mama. I hurt his feelings...I'm sorry, Kani, it wasn't your fault," she told her brother. "Can you please forgive me?"

"Yes," Kani said. "Of course I can. I know it wasn't my fault. And you're right I don't remember going to see Nonna, but Mama always told us stories about the times when we would go to New York to visit her. Anyway, we came here to have fun, so c'mon let's have fun!"

While the twins made up, Horatio laid Kai down in Kae's bed and closed the door. "Kids," Horatio said, coming back into the front room. "I need to talk to you two along with Kae and Lani."

"What's up, dad?" Bella asked. "Are we in trouble?"

"No," he said. "Your mother broke down earlier when we were at her dad's grave. I think it's best that we stay here for a week here and then go back home. Your mom needed to come here to say good-bye again, but she can't stay here."

"But..." Kani said. "We were supposed to have two weeks here..."

Kawehi looked at Horatio, then at the kids. "I think that's a wonderful idea!" Kawehi agreed. "A week is plenty of time to see the island, go to luau's, and to buy souvenirs for everyone, and then go home. This island holds both good and bad memories for your mom, and the bad memories are really hard for her. So, I think it's best to listen to your dad. He knows your mom the best, and I'm sure they talked already about what will happen when your dad retires."

"We did," Horatio said. "She wanted to retire here, but earlier today she said she wanted to move to Georgia after I retired instead."

"Georgia?" Kani asked. "Why Georgia? Why not stay in Florida or come back here?"

Bella looked at him. "Kani, didn't you just hear Kae? Mom and dad coming back here after he retires isn't going to work out. Yes it's beautiful here, but we want mom to be okay as she gets older...Do you understand? Mom is a good person but- bad things keep happening to her. If she's here when dad retires, her super powers won't work, it's too far away. But if she's in Georgia...it's not that far of a drive from Georgia to Florida and she can still come see us, and we can travel to see her. And who knows, maybe we'll go some where else for Christmas next year"

Kani sighed. How was his sister always right? Kawehi and Lani looked at each other, then at Horatio, a little confused.

Horatio looked back at them. "I'll tell you later," he mouthed silently. He then watched the kids carefully to make sure no other fights were going to break out. Thankfully, they didn't seem to be angry with each other anymore. "You know, Kani, we could go to New York for spring break. Then we could go to Alaska, for summer break...and next Christmas go to Disney World? Would you like that?"

The twins looked at him. "For real?" they asked in unison. "Could we?!" Kani asked. "Really?! We would love that!!"

"I'll talk to your mom about it later" Horatio promised. "But for now, let's enjoy our time here. We'll get stuff for Walter, Alexx, and all of our friends back in Miami"

"Hey Kae," Isabella asked. "Could you show us how to make the leis now. I wanna take one home to Calleigh!"

"Sure I can!" Kae said. "But, it will have to be made from fake flowers; the real flowers won't last on a flight from here to Florida. We can make all kinds of leis. If it's okay with your parents, I can keep you and your brother here for a while, and I can teach you guys how to make leis"

The twins got excited and looked to Horatio. He nodded. "It's okay with me," Horatio said. "But, it's up to your mom"

Kai had woken up a few moments before, and while the twins and Horatio were talking she came out of the bedroom. She overheard Horatio. "What's up to me?" she asked, rubbing her eyes. "Hey Uncle, do you have any coffee?"

"Sure I do" Kawehi went to get her some. "I was just telling the kids," Kawehi told her. "With permission from you and Horatio, I could take the kids for the day and teach them how to make leis. Isabella wants to take one home to Calleigh."

"Oh!" she said. "Calleigh would love that! Mmm," she said, turning to Horatio. "H, if Kawehi takes the kids for awhile, we could go on a date."

Horatio smiled as Kawehi came back with the coffee. "Here you go, Kai," Kawehi said handing her a steaming mug. "It's my own special blend."

Kai took the mug and sat down. She closed her eyes to take and breathed in deeply, taking in the scent of the coffee and took a sip. "Oh!" Kai said. "This is so good!! Uncle, some of this has to go back home with us! Is there anything you can't do?! Here, H, try this," she said, holding the mug out to him.

Kawehi laughed. "I'm glad you like it" he said. "It sweet, without being too sweet. No need for cream or sugar."

Horatio took the cup from Kai. He tried a sip, and smiled. "It is good" he agreed.

"But..?" Kae asked. "It's not your thing right? I'm sure Kai makes good coffee too. She has many skills that I'm sure she hasn't shown off in years"

"Correct," Horatio said. "It's not really my thing. I like my coffee with a little cream and sugar, and I love Kai's coffee. This coffee is special to her, it is good coffee, wonderful flavor, but it's more her style, not mine"

Kai took the mug back and sipped it again. "Mmm," she said. "I'm just happy he tried it. I know it's not his thing, and I would never make him drink it."

"I'll give you a couple of bags of beans to take back with you" Kawehi said. "I'm glad you like it"

"So," Lani said. "Little sister, you have this whole island to show off to your kids and husband. But before you get started, let's go practice some hula!"

Kai put her hand to her forehead. "Oh! Must we?" she said, joking. "I'm so tired of hula."

Lani laughed. "Yeah, right. You're so funny!!" she said. "Finish your coffee, and let's go!"

Kani listened to their conversation, curious. "Excuse me, Lani, but...why does Mama call you sister?" Kani asked. "And why does she call Kae uncle?"

"Because," Kai started to explain. "Lani is older than me, and she's like a sister to me, always has been. Kawehi, was my dad's best friend...they were like brothers, and Kae was around all the time when I was growing up so therefore he's like an uncle to me."

"There," Lani said. "Perfect. I couldn't have said it better myself! But I think your mama thinks I'm to old!" She teased, pretending to be offended.

Kai looked at her sideways. "When's the last time you did the hula?" Kai asked. "I did a demo for the twins' school, so...I think I got some practice in" Kai laughed.

"For what?" Kani asked, he wasn't understanding the humor between the two women.

"Ah..never mind," Lani said. "I was trying to make a joke, I guess it wasn't funny."

Kai finished off the coffee and went to wash the cup, when she was done she dried it and put it away before coming into the living room. "Come on," Kai said taking Lani's hand. "Let's go practice the hula like we did when we were kids."

Lani sighed. "I guess the flight is kicking my butt," she said. "I'm going to bow out for now...you go, and I'll see you later"

"He aha ka Lani?! Ua paʻa ʻoe a pau e kiʻi iaʻu i laila e hoʻomaʻamaʻa a loaʻa iā ʻoe ka ʻeha āpau ke ʻakaʻaka ʻole kekahi i kāu hoʻohenehene....e kiʻi i kāu hoki i laila NOW!!!" Kai said very upset. ("What the hell Lani?! You're all determined to get me out there to practice and you get all butt hurt when no one laughs at your joke....get your ass out there NOW!!!")

Everyone turned to look at Kai very surprised with her tone and attitude towards Lani. It hadn't always been that way. Up until her dad died, she had been the sweetest girl on the island; everything Lani said had been funny to her. But after her dad died...nothing was as it had been before. Her attitude towards everyone, even towards Hawaii had changed.

Once she was back in New York everything began to settle down for her. Kai had slowly become her happy self again. She had put Hawaii and her memories out of her mind. At least until the death of her dad had come up, and then she closed herself in her room for the entire day, with no food. She had told her mom she was fasting for the day. Isabella had checked on her, and made sure she stayed hydrated throughout the day.

And now, back in Hawaii, her mood had darkened again. Lani looked at Kai and went to lay down, ignoring Kai's fit.

Kai stood to her full height and glared after Lani. "Let's go" she said to Horatio and the kids

Horatio sighed when she did that. 'Twice in a week now she's done this' Horatio thought to himself. 'Though now her past is starting to make sense to me'

They all left and walked the beach in silence. No one dared to speak when Kai this was mad. The twins went over to Horatio and held his hands, a little scared of Kai.

Kai stepped away and walked over to her dad's grave. "Hey daddy...these are your grandkids," she said softly. "May I introduce Kalani and Isabella," she said, calling the kids over. "Kids, this is your grandfather-, my daddy, Kalani"

Kailani and Isabella stood with their heads bowed, paying their respects to their grandfather.

Kai's stomach started to growl. "Oh..heh" she said. "I guess, I'm hungry. Come on babies, let's go get something to eat. For this entire week no Italian food"

The twins smiled. "What's good here mama?" Bella asked.

"Oh...I don't know, baby" she said. "It's been a long time since I've been here. Things have changed. Let's go find something though."

They went to Island Ono Loa Grill. "This looks new" Kai told them. "I don't remember this being here when I was here last"

"It smells yummy" Kani said. "Please mom, can we eat here?"

"Yes, of course we can," she said. "What do you think, H?"

"Sounds perfect," Horatio said. "It smells amazing, let's go in and get something to eat!"

As they walked in, the restaurant got quiet.

Kailani and her family waited for someone to seat them, but no one moved towards them as she looked around. "Hello, may we be seated please?" she called out.

The hostess looked at the manager and the manager nodded. "Hi and welcome in, a table for four?" she asked politely.

"Yes, please." Kai said irritably. "And could everyone stop staring at us, please? It's uncomfortable."

One of the cooks came out from the kitchen. "Kailani?" he asked.

"Yes?" Kai asked. "Do I know you?"

"I'm Kau'i," he said. "I was about 15 when you came to the island to spend the year with your dad. Then I met you again when you came back a couple of times"

"Sorry," Kai told him. "I don't remember you at all, I'm sorry...the only two people here I remember is Kawehi and his sister Lani. I just brought my family here to eat."

"Yes, of course," Kau'i said. "I'm sorry, I should've known you wouldn't remember me"

Kai got an odd feeling from him and shifted uncomfortably. "I'm sorry kids, but we're going to find another place to eat," she told Kani and Bella.

"Aww..." both kids whined.

Horatio sensed how uncomfortable Kai was, and pulled her closer to him. "I think your mother is right about this. Let's go find somewhere else to eat."

"Okay, fine..." Kani said. "But I was really looking forward to this place...."

"Let's go back to the hotel and order room service" Kai said. "We'll try another place tomorrow and if we eat a light snack then we can save room for the luau..."

The twins nodded and looked down, as Horatio led them out of the restaurant and back to the hotel.

Kai couldn't shake the odd feeling that Kau'i gave her. She was really quiet when they got back to the room.

Horatio ordered room service for him and the kids. And as Kai seemed to be overthinking things as usual, he looked into getting an earlier flight home. "Bella, Kani" Horatio said. "How about, after we eat, we go get gifts for everyone at home? I think...well I have a feeling your mom may want to go home earlier than what we planned"

Kani was bothered by this, but stayed quiet. They had just gotten there, and now they had to go home? He was wondering what had really happened to his mother when she was a kid on this island, and later after she grew up.

"Okay, dad," Bella said. "I get it, mom's not doing well..she wanted us to meet grandpa and we did"

"That's right," Horatio said "Your mom has some really bad memories from her life here, so..I will try to make it up to you guys"

The twins nodded. "Okay dad," Kani said softly. He was really enjoying the island. "I guess one day I'll come back here on my own"

Horatio nodded. "That would be a good idea," he said. "I bet you'll really enjoy it."

Room service came and everyone but Kai snacked on the food.

Horatio watched her. 'What happened with that guy to make her uncomfortable?' he thought to himself.

Meanwhile back at home, Calleigh was getting the house set up and talking everyone including Frank into throwing Kai a proper retirement party.

"I don't know Calleigh," Frank said. "I mean, having to watch her when Delko shot her, and now throwing her a retirement party? Didn't they already throw one for her in Alaska when she retired?"

"No," Calleigh said. "They didn't. She wasn't there long enough for them to get to know her like we do"

"But we don't really know her," Ryan said. "You and Alexx know her the best. And Delko of course, but he's not coming back. I would throw Horatio a retirement party right now, if he said he was retiring today."

"Will you two clowns quit bringing up Eric?" Alexx said walking up behind them. "Shame on you both. Kailani is a good lady, she deserves a retirement party and of course so will Horatio, when his time comes. I can bet you anything they won't be staying here when he retires"

Ryan laughed. "What makes you say that?" he asked her.

"Oh they'll probably go back to Hawaii or something," Alexx responded.

As Alexx was trying to get her point across to the guys Calleigh texted Horatio. "Hey Horatio," Calleigh said. "I hope you guys are having a good time. Please don't tell Kai but I'm decorating the house for an official retirement party. How much time do I have?"

Horatio looked at his phone. "Not long," he said texting back. "I will fill you in later, but the kids and I are heading out to get surprises, so we'll be home probably late tomorrow night early the next day."

"Okay," Calleigh said wondering what happened and why they were cutting the trip short. "See you soon" she said, then put the phone in her pocket. "Okay guys," she told the others. "If this happening we need to hustle, Horatio said they'll most likely be coming home very very soon, like by the day after tomorrow, if not tomorrow night"

The guys hemmed and hawed, but got over it, and helped Calleigh with the party plans.

Meanwhile, back in Hawaii, Horatio put his phone away and took the kids out to buy gifts for everyone.

While H and the kids shopped, Kailani was sitting on the bed trying to rack her brain about the guy in the restaurant. 'Where have I seen him before?' Kai asked herself. 'How does he know me? Was I engaged to him?'

While they were out the twins whispered to each other in their own little twin speak, trying to find out why their mom was acting so weird and what had happened to her. "We should ask Kae," Kani said to Bella. "Or other people that know her personally"

"Yeah, but we'll have to shake dad first, so he won't know we're talking to Kae" Bella said. "You know, we won't be able to shake him easily"

"Oh! I know! Let's ask dad to take us to McDonald's," Kani said. "We'll get some fries and drinks to munch on, and then we can go in the playground somewhere and call Kae and talk to him. Or we can pull him aside at the luau"

"What are you two talking about?" Horatio asked. "Better yet, what are you two plotting?"

"Dad," Bella said. "Can you take us to McDonald's? Maybe for a snack like fries and a drink? And a little play time?"

"Please dad!!" Kani chimed in. "It's just a little snack and a little playtime"

"Okay," Horatio said. "But we can't stay long we'll have to go get your mom soon for the luau"

"Yes!!" the twins said in unison helping him pick out things for everyone.

When they were done Horatio took them to McDonald's and led them inside the playland. They sat and nibbled on their fries.

"Dad," Isabella said. "We're going to go play now" she said.

"Okay," Horatio said. "I can catch up on some e-mails while you guys play, just don't leave the play area without me"

"We won't!!" they said in unison running to the tubes, where no one else was.

There were a ton of kids elsewhere in the play area, so their noise would help drown out the twins calling Kawehi.

The phone rand, and Kawehi answered, expecting Kailani. "Kai, are you okay?" he asked.

"It's not Kai, it's Isabella and Kani" Kani said. "We really need to know what happened to mom. She freaked out at the restaurant we went to for lunch"

"Freaked out is to strong," Isabella said. "But she was really uncomfortable."

"What happened?" Kawehi asked. "Where are you guys?"

"We talked dad into bringing us to McDonald's playland," Kani said. "We're in the tubes and he's on his phone checking e-mail, mama's back at the hotel."

They heard Kawehi sigh. "Your mother would kill me," Kawehi said, "if she were to find out that I told you this. But if you think you're ready to hear it..."

"We are," Bella said. "We can handle it. We really need to know why mama is acting weird, I guess is how we can describe it"

Kawehi told them everything that he could over the phone. "I have to go," he said when he finished. "I have to get ready for the luau. I hope to see you guys there."

"Thanks," Kani said hanging up. He turned to Bella. "I don't think we are ready for this," he told her.

"To late now," Bella said. "We started it, so we have to finish it"

Kani nodded and both kids went down to Horatio. "Hey dad" Kani said.

"What were you two up to?" Horatio asked. "Why do you have your mom's phone? Does she know you have it?"

"No, she doesn't" Isabella said. "We took it so we could keep track of the time while we were out"

Horatio knew she was lying but wasn't going to call her on it. "Whatever you two are up to," he said, "don't continue on with it...it's not for you to know. At least not yet"

"But we need to know" Kani said. "Mom is acting weird; we want to know everything."

"Drop it," Horatio said sternly. "You don't need to know, and it would be wise if you two stopped digging about in your mom's business"

They nodded and knew not to argue with him. "Alright dad" they said in unison and gathered their trash to throw it away.

But it didn't stop them from wondering, and talking amongst themselves about what Kawehi had told them. He had given them only some vague clues, not nearly enough. Kani and Bella agreed to try to find out more later, at the luau.

After they left McDonald's they went back to the hotel to get ready.

Horatio let the kids in first and was greeted by the sound of the shower running. He heard Kai singing, something she rarely; if ever did anymore.

Bella still had Kai's phone. She put it on the charger so it would have some time to charge before they left

After a few minutes Kai got out of the shower; she was still singing. She dressed in her luau clothes and put her hair up. Then she came out of the bathroom to see Horatio and the kids. "Hey babies; hey H," she said, smiling.

"Hi, mama," Kani said. "How was your day after we left?"

"It was okay," Kai said. "I remembered who the guy from the restaurant was. He was my bully in school while I was here for that year, and then again every time I came to Hawaii after that..."

"Well, that's not nice," Bella said. "But we understand we've met bullies too"

"I would tell him off in Italian," Kai remembered. "If he is at the luau tonight and wants to tell me off let him. This is the last time; I'm coming to Hawaii. I'm sorry our time is cut super short, Bella, and Kani, but I didn't realize all the bad memories that were here."

"Mama," Kani said. "We want to know everything that happened, from the time you were a little girl until now. All of it."

"Does it have to be tonight?" Kai asked. "I just want tonight to enjoy the luau. I haven't been to one in so long, and I want it to be a happy night for all of us. You guys aren't going to have another chance like this for a long time, and I want tonight to be special. Tomorrow or sometime before you go back to school, I will tell you everything, I promise. But please, tonight, let me just enjoy myself. Let me have this..please," she beseeched them.

The twins looked at each other, then at Horatio, who didn't look happy that they had disobeyed him. And then they looked back at Kai. "Okay, mama," Bella said. "We'll let you have tonight"

Kani nodded. "Okay..." he agreed.

"Good, go get ready please," Kai told them.

They nodded and went to get their clothes. Bella went into the bathroom to change first

Horatio took Kai in his arms and kissed her gently. "I haven't heard you sing since we were kids," Horatio said softly. "I forgot how beautiful your voice is."

Kai blushed and playfully hit him. "Oh stop," she said. "I'm a horrible singer, you're just flattering me"

He smiled and kissed her again. "Have I told you how proud I am of you?" he asked.

She shook her head no and looked into his eyes, which held so much love for her.

"I'm so proud of you, Kai," Horatio said. "You've overcome a lot of hurt. That which didn't kill you made you stronger. I only hope you can continue to be strong with me, the twins, and our friends by your side."

Kai looked at him. Behind him, Kani disappeared into the bathroom to change and get ready to go. "I couldn't ask for a better husband and family," Kai told H. "Our friends are my family too. Eric gave me two amazing human beings, and I will always be grateful for that. Everyday I miss our little girl. I wish she could've been here with us..but I know she is anyway, in spirit," she said breaking down, crying in Horatio's arms.

Horatio held her and rubbed her back. He kissed her forehead. "I miss her too," he said softly. "I know the twins do too. She'll live in our hearts forever, babe. And I bet your mom has met her too"

Kai nodded; she got off of his lap to go wash her face. Horatio followed her into the bathroom to change. "We'll make it through everything together," Horatio said softly. "I'm always going to be here for you."

Kai nodded as she redid her face. Horatio changed into the luau clothes. That weren't his style at all, but he was doing this for the love of his life.

"You look so handsome in that" Kai said. "I know this isn't you, but thank you for doing it. I love that you can step out of your comfort zone for me, I promise this is the only time I will ask you to do this"

Horatio kissed her again. "You're welcome." He said. "You are an amazing woman and I wouldn't do this for just anyone"

They left the bathroom together and put their shoes on. "Do we have everything?" Kai asked the twins and Horatio. "I'll keep the phones in my purse. And while we're at the luau, I don't want you two bothering anyone about my past"

Kani and Bella nodded. "Okay mama" they said in unison. Once Kai looked away, they looked at each other. Neither of them sure how they would sneak away to talk to Kawehi.

"Are we ready?" Horatio asked going to the door and opening it. "It would be rude to be late"

Kai nodded. "Yup, let's go," she said. "Let's go make some good memories!"

As they left Kai had a feeling, but didn't know what it was. She was trying hard to be happy for the night, but something was bothering her, and she couldn't figure out what was wrong.

The smell of the luau filled the air with aromas that she had forgotten about- things that she had love and forgotten about, and, that the kids and H had never really experienced. She couldn't wait for them to taste everything.

Kawehi looked over. He saw Kai and her family and smiled. He had made the night all about her, coming home for the first time in a long time, and now for the last time.

The kids took everything in. They both had cameras that Horatio had bought them so they could take pictures of that night, and they put the cameras to good use. Little did either of them know they would get to stay up past their bedtime again.

Lani was there with flowered crowns for Kai and her family. She wore a big smile. "I'm sorry for earlier," she said. "I really was jet lagged and I was rude."

Kai smiled at her. "You're forgiven sister, always," she said hugging Lani. "So...why the crowns?" she asked.

Lokelani walked the four of them to where the chairs were. "Ladies and gentleman," she began. "Tonight, we honor one of our sisters. She has fought her way through hell and back, more than once. She stands before us today, with her husband, and two children. She is my best friend and sister, Mrs. Kailani Sloan Kaʻanāʻanā Brown Caine"

Horatio took her hand and squeezed it. He hadn't heard her dad's last name in years and had forgotten how hard it was to pronounce. 'No wonder, he told me to call him Mr. Brown,' Horatio thought to himself, smiling. 'That was a mouthful to say'

The twins looked up at their mom with nothing but pride and love in their eyes, happy that she was their mom.

Kawehi said a few words. Some of what he said, gave the kids a clue about Kai's past. "When Isabella brought Kailani to the island for the first time," Kawehi began. "she fell in love with the island. It quickly became home to her. Lokelani took her around and showed her everything she could. When Kailani started school here, she excelled at everything she did. But, she was having a hard time with something, something she never told anyone. Lokelani knew that Kailani was being bullied. She didn't know what to do, so she confided in me. And I told Kai's father. He was my best friend, after all."

The twins and Horatio looked at Kai. It made sense now as to why they didn't stay at the burger place for lunch. Kailani didn't show that she was upset or embarrassed by Kawehi's story, but she was. She stood strong, but she would have words for Kawehi later.

Kalani and Isabella felt instant regret about their secret plans. They just wanted to know more about their mom; they had never thought Kawehi would spill everything in public for them. To them, their mom was the strongest person they knew. They had seen her at her weakest and at her strongest, but, tonight they would hear and see her in a different light.

Kai prayed Kawehi would stop talking. She didn't like feeling vulnerable and powerless. 'Please stop' she thought to herself. 'This isn't what I wanted.'

Everyone sat and listened to what Kawehi had to say about Kai. The good, the bad, and the ugly parts about her growing up there, and running to the islands when things went wrong, horribly wrong in her life.

Horatio knew his feeling about Kawehi was right. But, Kai had insisted that he give Kawehi a chance, and so he did. But he wasn't liking anything he was hearing.

Kau'i watched with satisfaction as Kai got picked apart by one of the most important people in her life. 'Finally, I'll be able to finish what I started.' he thought to himself. 'Now to get her off to herself, without her husband and kids.'

Once Kawehi was finished with revealing Kai's entire past on the island, no one said anything. They were in shock, with the exception of Lokelani, Horatio, and of course Kailani herself.

When the shock of everything Kawehi had said wore off, Kau'i stood up. "Kailani would you like to go for a walk with me?" he asked.

Horatio was still holding her hand. "Kai" he whispered softly. "Let's go home"

"I would like that H," Kai said. "But there one thing I have to do first"

Kau'i didn't get the response he had hoped for, and it made him angry. He started to cuss her out in Italian, and that got her attention.

Kai looked up, her eyes hard as steel and fired back at him with her own Italian.

Kau'i kept going, insulting Kai in Italian. She laughed it off. She was used to the Italian insults. Her mother had thrown them around easily, and Kai had always respond accordingly. Now, she had no one to stop her with her words, and they weren't chosen carefully anymore.

What surprised Kau'i the most was when Kai used a string of Italian curses on him, and a few other choice Italian profanities. "I'm not afraid of you anymore! You don't scare me!" she told him. "NO, I don't wanna go on a walk with you, because I know what you're going to do. It's something you've been dying to do since I got here. I'm not stupid, I was just coming out of an abusive relationship! You were going to take me down, away from everyone and rape me!" she spat at him

Everyone was surprised at her accusations. Kau'i put his head down, embarrassed he had been caught.

The words that came out of Kai's mouth surprised everyone. "I came to Hawaii with my family to make memories," Kai said. "Good memories. But the bad ones outweigh the good. I wanted my family to experience a luau, the fun, the food and the laughter. But tonight there is none of that, just my past being dug up and brought to light."

"I have two nosy children that couldn't help themselves, and were determined to get involved in my past." she continued. "I have...I had family here that I thought wouldn't betray me. The only person being true to me right now, is my husband. I know he has a right to know my past" Kai said looking down at the twins. "But you two..I would've told you when you were older, when I thought you were ready. You've broken my trust, and now you have to work to earn that back. You weren't ready for the truth, so what little I did tell you should have been enough. And, now you know all of my secrets. You all do." With that she took off the crown and the leis and walked away to the temple where her father's ashes were held.

They all watched as she walked away. No one moved and no one followed her, they all let her be.

The twins looked up to Horatio, then down. "We're sorry we didn't listen," Kani said. "We were just curious, that's all."

"Next time I tell you to drop it," Horatio said. "drop it."

Lokelani was exhausted from jet lag, and slept all that day, right up until time for the luau. She hadn't spoken to her brother all day, and had no idea about what he was planning to do. "You just lost her, and you now lost me," Lokelani said as she went to the temple. Once there, she went inside and found Kai lying on the floor; she looked almost lifeless. Lani quickly searched through her bag and nearby before running out of the door. "Horatio!!" She called "HORATIO!!!"

Horatio looked up and ran towards her. "Lani, what is it?" he asked. "What's wrong?!"

"It's Kai...she's almost lifeless on the temple floor," Lani said, frantic.

"Watch the twins," Horatio told her. "At the moment, you're the only one I can trust with them"

"Mama!!" Bella and Kani screamed, both scared, as Lani gathered them into her arms.

Horatio ran into the temple, bowed quickly, and went to Kai. "Kai," he said. "Kai stay with me." He picked her up and walked out with her. "I need a bird now! I need to take her back to Miami!"

"I'll get your stuff and we'll follow you in another helicopter" Lani said calling in for a helicopter to take Horatio and Kai back to Miami.

Horatio got Kai to the helicopter and told them to call ahead to Dade General. From what Horatio could see there was nothing physically wrong with her. "Kai," he said. "Kai, does anything hurt?"

"My pride," she said softly, not saying anything else.

Horatio called Calleigh.

"Duquesne" Calleigh answered, not looking at the number first.

"Calleigh," Horatio said loudly into the phone. "It's Horatio, meet us at Miami Dade General"

"Horatio," she said. "What's going on?"

"I'll explain later- we'll see you there," Horatio said, and hung up.

Calleigh called Alexx and explained what was going on, in very vague details. She didn't know much.

"Calleigh?" Alexx asked when she answered the phone and heard what was going on. "How long have they been in the air?"

"I don't know" Calleigh said. "I know it takes a few hours to get from Hawaii to Florida, so I'm going to say a few minutes"

"What about the kids?" Alexx asked.

"I don't know; Horatio didn't say anything about them," she said. "He told me to meet them at Dade General, but I'm sure it will take a few hours for them to get there..and now that I'm awake, I guess I'll make some coffee and set out presents for them."

In the second helicopter, behind Horatio and Kai by twenty minutes, sat the twins and Lokelani. The twins had their bag of things to do on the flight to Hawaii, which they hadn't done before because they were asleep. Now they were away from their mom, racked with guilt and worry.

'I can't believe he did that to her!' Lani thought to herself. 'He knew her life was hard, did he plan that with Kau'i? Did that jackass make Kawehi say all that? Kai looked so small and fragile. And I haven't seen her that mad since her dad died.'

"I feel so guilty," Kani wrote to Isabella. "How do we get her to trust us again?"

Isabella read it and shrugged. "I don't know" she wrote back. "We should've listened to Horatio when he said to drop it. We have all this knowledge now, we have to let it go and move on, and never mention to mom or Horatio again"

Kani nodded and looked out the window. Both kids were really worried about their mom. They knew that Horatio had a handle on it, but they couldn't help but worry anyway.

A few hours later, the first helicopter landed on the roof of Miami Dade General. Alexx and Calleigh stood on the helipad awaiting them. "Alexx, we need to get her downstairs," Horatio shouted. "Calleigh, I need you to wait for the twins, they should be right behind us." he said.

Calleigh nodded as Alexx and Horatio took Kai downstairs to the ER to get her checked out. 'What the hell happened?' she asked herself, as she looked for the next helicopter to come in.

Kani looked out the window of the helicopter and saw Calleigh waiting on the helipad below. "Bella, look!" he said excited. "It's Calleigh!"

Bella looked and saw her. "Oh! I wonder if mom and dad are here already," she said. "Lokelani, that's mom's best friend here in Florida. Her name is Calleigh Duquesne. She is super nice"

Lokelani smiled. "Guys," she said. "I had no idea my brother was going to do that tonight. I'm sorry that you didn't have a good experience in Hawaii. Your mom wanted you to experience the luau. Maybe one day, if you both are willing to come back, you can try the luau again"

"Well," Kani said. "It was rude of him to do. And now I guess the only family Mom has from Hawaii is you"

The helicopter touched down, and the kids grabbed their things. Lokelani helped them out first, and then she got out as well.

Calleigh shepherded them out of the way so the helicopter could take off again. Once it left, Calleigh introduced herself. "Calleigh Duquesne, CSI," she said holding out her hand.

"Lokelani,"Lani said, shaking Calleigh's hand. "Old friend of Kailani's"

"What happened?" Calleigh asked. "I know they were supposed to come home tomorrow, not tonight"

Lokelani went into details of what happened at the luau, and how she found Kai in the temple looking like death. The twins stayed quiet as the two adults talked.

As the adults talked, they all walked towards the hospital entrance. Once inside, they made their way down to the ER to find Horatio and Kai.

Kai was now having tests done to make sure nothing was physically wrong with her.

Horatio saw the twins, Lokelani and Calleigh. "Hey Lokelani," Horatio said. "Can I talk to you for a minute?"

"Sure, Horatio," Lani said. "What's up?" They walked out of earshot of the twins and talked about Lokelani's brother.

Meanwhile, the twins sat quietly on the chairs not saying a word.

"Are you two okay?" Calleigh asked them. "You have guilty looks on your faces."

"No, we aren't okay," Kani said. "We wanted to know everything about mama's past. And it was told to us tonight in a bad way. And we betrayed mama and dad. Dad told us to drop it, and we didn't...and now mama doesn't trust us"

"She said," Bella added, "that she was planning to tell us when we got older. But we were too impatient to wait"

Calleigh listen and watched them. "You know," she said, "sometimes parents don't tell us things for a reason. And that reason is to protect us. Now that you know what happened to your mom, maybe you can learn from it. And, remember, when your mom and dad tell you to drop it, that means it's done. It has no more importance to the here and now."

"Yes Calleigh," they said in unison. "We'll find a way to make it up to mama"

Horatio came back with Lokelani. "Calleigh, would you please take the twins home?" Horatio asked her. "Straight to their rooms, and to bed"

Bella looked up at him. "We're sorry," she said. "We broke both you and mama's trust."

Horatio accepted the apology. "I don't know when we'll be home, so please go home and try to rest," he told the twins.

They nodded and gathered their things, and took Calleigh's hand

"I should go too...I can't, though. I didn't bring anything with me, no ID, nothing at all," Lokelani said.

"I can get a bird to get you home" Horatio assured her. "You have done so much for me and Kai in the short time I've known you. She's lucky to have a friend like you to call her sister. If we've left anything else in Hawaii, please let me know and I'll send you the money to send it home to us." He then called for a helicopter to take Lokelani back home. "Call me, when you arrive back in Hawaii, please. Let me know you got home safely."

"I will," Lani said. "Please keep me updated on Kai; I don't want to miss out anymore"

Horatio nodded and squeezed her hand. "We'll come visit you in New York soon," he said. "Probably over spring break"

"I would like that," she said. "Walk with me to the roof?"

Horatio did so, knowing all the tests were going to take time to run.

Calleigh drove the twins home. It was a long and silent car ride. Once they were home, they put the Christmas gifts they had made and bought under the tree, and hung stockings. Then they went to their rooms.

Kai's tests were completed while Horatio was taking Lokelani up to the roof. She lay in bed, asleep. Physically, there was nothing wrong with her. Alexx ordered all the tests she could think of, all the results came back normal. Clearly, nothing was physically wrong, but Alexx did notice in Kai's records that depression had played a part in her life. She prescribed some anti-depressants for Kai to try.

Once Lokelani had departed safely, Horatio went downstairs to see his wife and to talk to Alexx.

"Alexx," Horatio said. "What's wrong with her?"

"Nothing," Alexx said. "Nothing physical anyways. But her chart says she has a history of depression, so- I'm prescribing her some anti-depressants"

Horatio nodded. "Can I take her home now?" he asked. "Or do you want to keep her here for the night?"

"She can go home," Alexx said. "But- next time you call out of the blue like that from far away and scared the hell out of me and Calleigh I'll have a few choice words for you, Horatio Caine"

He smiled knowing her words were true. "Thank you Alexx," he said hugging her. "This means a lot to me and to Kai."

"Go on now," Alexx said. "Take miss thing home. She, will have her script filled the day after the holiday. You guys didn't stay in Hawaii long, did you?"

"We couldn't," Horatio said. "After tonight, we're not going back to Hawaii, ever. Goodnight ma'am, we'll see you later."

"Goodnight Horatio," she said. "Oh, wait. Kai has a surprise party tomorrow..."

"She may not want that right now," Horatio said. "But I will see how she feels in the morning, and I'll call you." Horatio went into the room and got Kai discharged, then called a cab to take them home.

Calleigh was still waiting up, watching out the window for them, looking for either a cab or Alexx's car.

The cab pulled up a few minutes later with Horatio and Kai inside. Calleigh got up and let them in. "Welcome home" she said.

Horatio took Kai in and smiled at her. Then he went and got her settled into bed, before coming back out to sit on the couch. He was worn out.

"You want to talk about it?" Calleigh asked him. "How was Hawaii?"

"Well..I learned a lot," Horatio said. "I watched Kai go from being excited, to sad, scared, and ready to end her life..that was all in a span of 24 hours. And I learned a lot about her dad's friend Kawehi. Come to find out that her dad's friend was up to no good. But- he did give me more information about Kai"

"Oh yeah?" Calliegh asked. "Like what?"

He dove into details about everything, from the time they landed to the luau.

Calleigh took it all in, listening to everything Horatio said. It was a lot to absorb. "Wow," she said. "That's a lot."

Horatio nodded. "Yeah," he said. "It is. From watching Kai just light up, then get angry, to being out of it. It was like someone let the air out slowly of the balloon. I'm not sure if she'll really be up to a party by tomorrow."

"I would like to try, anyway," Calleigh said. "I mean she never really got a retirement party, so, it's about time we did it for her. And we'll do one for you when you retire, too."

Horatio smiled. "Well, ma'am," Horatio said. "It's been a long day. So if you'll excuse me, I'm going to head to bed. Could you please make sure everything is locked up?"

"Absolutely," Calleigh assured him. She got up to check the locks as Horatio went to bed. Then she checked on the twins who were now asleep in their beds. She smiled and made herself some tea and took it to her room.

Later, after Horatio had left the hospital with Kai, Alexx looked at her calendar. She realized it was only the 20th of December not Christmas Eve. She shot Horatio a text, saying that he could get Kai's medicine tomorrow instead of waiting, and explained that she had forgotten what day it was.

Kai had a fitful sleep that night. She tried snuggling into Horatio to get back to sleep, but couldn't. So she decided to watch him sleep instead. 'I don't deserve him' she thought to herself. 'He's always been my rock, my protector...so why now when I feel so vulnerable, does this feel wrong? It's not wrong, this is right, this is meant to be...do I need to face more of my fears? Do I have to go to that courtroom to face Eric?' Her mind raced with all the questions, making it impossible to get back to sleep.

The next morning Horatio was up before Kai. He made a light breakfast for himself and Calleigh. Calleigh came out of her room with her hair pulled back, ready to head to work. "Good morning," she said. "How did you sleep? How did Kai sleep?"

"Good morning, ma'am" Horatio said. "Breakfast and coffee are ready. I slept well, but Kai did not, I don't even know if she's awake right now. As far as I know the twins are still sleeping. I have to run some errands today, so I hope Kai will be okay here alone with the twins"

"Well thank you for breakfast," Calleigh said. She sat down. "Ooh coffee!" Calleigh exclaimed and started to eat.

In the bedroom, Kai was awake and texting Lokelani. "Thank you for bringing the twins and my stuff home," Kai said in the text. "You are truly a good sister and friend, and I love you so much. I won't be coming back to Hawaii ever, that was..last night was embarrassing, and I was defeated. I never thought in a million years my problems would be aired so easily..."

"Yes, I was surprised too, usually Kawehi doesn't do that," Lokelani texted back. "But, I found out this morning he accepted money from Kau'i to spill everything. He went against his own code of keeping your secrets, so now the whole island of Kona knows. If Horatio hadn't gotten you out of here when he did...I don't think you and your family would've survived..."

Kai couldn't believe what she read. She had to reread Lokelani's last sentence a few times before it sunk in. It made her heart hurt to know, that what used to be her happy place before her dad died was no longer safe for her or her family. Kai laid down and held Horatio's pillow, breathing in his scent, and slowly drifted off to sleep. She wasn't in the mood for parties or fun; instead, she was going to try to spend as much time away from everyone as possible.

In the kitchen, Calleigh cleaned up her dishes and headed off to work. "See you later, Horatio," she said, leaving the house.

"Alright," he replied cleaning up his own dishes. He went to check on his wife and kids. He went to Kani's room first; seeing him still asleep, Horatio smiled. He then went to Bella's room; she looked like an angel sleeping. 'Good' he thought to himself. 'They are still asleep. This has been a crazy week so far'

Horatio then went to his room where he saw the covers pulled up over Kai's head, with only a small air hole remaining. His pillow had disappeared from sight. "Kai?" he asked.

Kai was almost asleep when Horatio came in. "Horatio," she said. "What's wrong?" She pulled the covers down and squinted. "I was just getting back to sleep."

Horatio went and cuddled with her. "Please don't lock me out," Horatio said. "Please don't think that, our marriage is a mistake because it's not. Don't shut me out, talk to me."

"I don't deserve you," Kai said softly. "Sister said, if you hadn't gotten me out of there, both you...we would've never made it home alive.." She shuddered to think of what might have happened. "Lani said- that Kawehi was paid by Kau'i to tell all my secrets, Kawehi went against his own moral code. The only person I had expected him to tell my secrets to, was you. Now the entire island knows everything about me."

"I was so scared, H," she admitted. "I was so scared to go back to that abusive road...the fact that Kau'i stated.." Kai took a deep breath and looked up at Horatio. "The fact that he stated, he wanted to rape me. He said it so casually, in front of you and the kids. "That's what knocked the breath of out me last night. And I'm sure the twins must hate me for keeping everything a secret. I just wanted to protect them, I just wanted to keep them safe." She was now fully crying in his arms. All the hurt, anger and pain came through clearly in her words.

Horatio held her and rubbed her back, speaking in soft hushed tones to her, to calm her and soothe her. He wiped her tears, when she needed them gone. He put on soft soothing sounds on his phone, mostly the sounds of rain, to help calm her and put her to sleep. Which still didn't happen.

Later on, around two in the afternoon the twins finally stirred and got up out of bed. They were still tired as a result of crossing multiple time zones within 48 hours, and they were still jet lagged. They got dressed and went to get something to eat. They decided on bagels, cream cheese, fruit and juice. It was quick and easy, and cleanup was simple. And it was something they didn't have to bug Kai to cook for them. After they were done eating and brushing their teeth, and had cleaned up after themselves, they turned on the TV and set the volume to low.

In the bedroom, Horatio heard the twins moving around in the kitchen and family room. "I have errands to run," he told Kai. "Would you like to go with me? It sounds like the twins are up"

"I would like that," she said. "Is Calleigh planning something for me? If she is it would be a welcome distraction"

"Possibly," Horatio texted Calleigh, telling her the party would be a go. "But only if you want that."

Kai got up and got ready to go while Horatio went to the living room. "Afternoon" he said to Bella and Kani.

They turned to look at him. "We're sorry...we didn't know if we could watch TV or not," Bella said. "We'll turn it off."

"Well, I'm glad you did turn it off," Horatio said. "I have errands to run, and your mom is coming with me. So please, if you aren't already ready to go, please go get yourselves ready."

"Okay dad" Kani said. He put the remote away and made sure he was ready to go.

Isabella made sure she was ready to go too, making sure her bed was made before they left. Kai, came out of the bedroom. "H," she called. "Do we have time to stop and get a coffee?"

"Of course we do," he said. "Kids, come on"

They all went to get their shoes on, and left the house. The twins were extra quiet; they didn't want to upset their mom more than they already had.

Kai looked behind her, and smiled at them. "It's not fair that I'm taking things out on you," she said. "And I'm sorry. And I understand why you did it. Thank you for wanting to learn more about me. I would rather have waited, and told you when you turned 13, but now works too. I'm not as mad as I was, I was going to ground you for the rest of break but, there is no point, so running errands with the adults will work"

The twins nodded and smiled back. "We weren't trying to hurt you mama" Bella said. "Just trying to learn more"

Meanwhile, while the family ran errands together, Calleigh got everyone over to the house for the party.

"Are you sure about this?" Ryan asked Calleigh. "What if Kai changes her mind?"

"I'm sure," Calleigh said. "Horatio texted me and said it was a go. He got her out of the house for a bit, so, we'd have time to set up the food and everything else. If you need to duck out because of a case, just let me know, Horatio is still on vacation and right now Kai needs him the most"

"Calleigh," Walter said. "I don't know her well; what should I bring as a present?"

"I'm not sure," she said. "Use your best judgment. Nothing frozen, please; don't insult her. You know she's Italian, and you know how she is about food."

Walter nodded and left. He went and got Kai a new pasta press. It was It was kind of an expensive gift for someone he didn't know well, but he bought it anyway. Maybe he'd get lucky and Kai would share some of her homemade pasta with him. He figured that she'd have more time to make home-made food, now that she was officially retired. Walter had fallen in love with Kai's cooking at Thanksgiving, and knew he had to have more. He hoped maybe if she liked the gift, she'd offer him some of the fresh pasta she made with it.

Out on the road, before their first errand, Horatio stopped and got coffee for himself and Kai, and fraps for the kids. "What are you thinking of for dinner?" he asked. "Do you feel like cooking, or ordering out?"

"Maybe a pizza or two?" Kai said. "I'm in no mood right now to cook. Oh, and sister made it home safely; I don't know if I told you or not"

"Good, I'm glad to hear that," Horatio said as he pulled up to the pharmacy. "I told her to keep in touch with me. And if we left anything there to send it back to us"

Kai saw the pharmacy sign. She looked out the window knowing the one thing she didn't want to do, was about to become a norm for her. She hated taking medication unless she felt it was needed, and in this case she didn't feel like it was worth her time.

"Mama," Kani said softly. "Are you okay?"

"I'll be okay babies," she said. "I'm just a bit upset is all"

"We love you" they said in unison. "We'll listen to you and dad from now on- well, more so, anyway," Bella said

"Thank you, that means a lot to me," Kai said. "You three are my life...and last night I almost gave up on my life"

"We're glad you didn't, mama," Kani said. "We would be so sad without you here"

Kai turned to look back at them. "I'm glad Eric gave me you two," she said softly. "You two, along with Horatio are the best things in my life"

Horatio came out with Kai's new the medication, and some flowers for her and the kids. "Here," Horatio said handing Kai the biggest bouquet. Bella and Kani got a couple of flowers each.

"Oh, H..." Kai said with tears in her eyes. "These are beautiful! Thank you so much, babe"

"Thanks, dad!" the twins said in unison

Horatio smiled and kissed Kai, then smiled at the twins. "You're all welcome," he said. "You seemed so sad, so I wanted to make you all smile"

That was the biggest errand the family had needed to do. Before they headed home, He texted Calleigh. "We're at the pharmacy," he told her. "Is it safe to come home?"

Calleigh texted him back. "Yes," she said. "Yes, you guys can come home now. Thank you for distracting Kai."

Horatio put the phone away and smiled. "Ready to go home?" he asked Kai and the kids.

"Yes," they all said. Kai was still tired from being awake for so long.

As Horatio drove them, home Kai closed her eyes for a moment. She hoped whatever Calleigh had planned would make her feel better about everything.

Back at the house, Calleigh had everyone there hurry up and hide. "Horatio will be pulling up anytime now," she said.

On the way home, Kai had a short nap in the car. Horatio pulled into the drive. "Kai, baby," he said. "We're home, time to wake up."

Kai yawned and opened her eyes as he parked the car. "Mmm, that was a nice little nap" she said. "Alright babies, let's go inside"

"Okay mama" the twins said in unison, waiting for Horatio to turn off the car.

Once he did they all got out, and they made their way inside. Horatio had his hand over Kai's eyes, guiding her in. Once everyone got their shoes off and stepped into the living room, they heard a big shout "SURPRISE!!!"

Kai jumped, and Horatio took his hand off of her eyes. "Oh my..." she said looking around. "Calleigh...you didn't have to do this"

"Yes, I did," Calleigh said. "When Horatio told me you never had a retirement party, I wanted to give you one. I kinda had to twist Ryan's and Frank's arms to get them to come. But no Captain, officer or CSI- should ever go without a retirement party."

"I agree, baby," Alexx said, hugging Kai. "You're looking better."

Kai hugged back, then excused herself. She went to put the flowers Horatio got them into vases, and put her medication up in the cupboard. She would wait until later to inform Alexx later she wasn't going to take them.

Kai felt very blessed to have friends like Calleigh and Alexx and the others to do this for her. She took a deep breath and went back into the living room, all smiles.

The twins watched her compose herself before going back to the living room. They knew their mom's smile could light up a room, and even if it was all an act, she was doing it because it meant a lot to Calleigh.

Kai looked at the food on the table, and thought something smelled a little off. Everyone gathered their food and stood around talking to each other as Kai made a sandwich for herself. She wasn't really in the mood for the food.

Calleigh came into the kitchen and saw Kai. "Kai," Calleigh said. "Are you okay? Was this not what you wanted? I'm sorry, I should've asked."

"It's fine, Calleigh," Kai said. "I love the party..it's just been a rough couple of days. I lost respect for my dad's best friend, I reconnected with my childhood friend, I almost died in Hawaii..it was a lot. Again, Italian food is the last thing on my mind. Most of it looks wonderful-but I'm not sure about one of the dishes. It smells like the meat went bad, and I'm worried that everyone could get sick from it."

"Oh?" Calleigh asked, concerned. "What dish is it?"

"The chicken Florentine," Kai said. "Everyone, excuse me," she announced loudly.

Everyone stopped to look at her. "If you have taken the chicken Florentine," she began, "do no eat it. I think the chicken is expired and doesn't smell right, and I do not want you guys to get sick from it"

No one had taken any. And now, they were glad they hadn't. "C'mon now. How can you tell the chicken is bad?" Frank Tripp asked.

"I just can Frank," Kai said. "I used to work in the restaurant business. If it smells bad, it gets tossed out or goes back to the place we got it from. Trust me, you do not want to get sick from this. I can make proper chicken Florentine another day, but DO NOT eat this one"

"Alright, now," Calleigh said trying to break up the dispute. "Why don't we open gifts? Then we'll have some cake and we'll wrap up after that."

"That is a great idea," Horatio agreed, escorting Kai into the living room. "Now then, who's first?"

Walter volunteered. "I'll go first" he said. "Be careful miss, it's heavy"

Kai nodded and took it and felt the weight. "I think I know what it is," she said. "And if I'm right, I will be very happy and you'll be the first to get fresh pasta" She then opened it and smiled. "I was right! How did you know I needed a new pasta press?"

"Lucky guess?" he said. "I'm glad you like it. Yessss! I was hoping you'd say that!!"

Kai laughed and opened the other gifts. One was a plaque that Calleigh had made for her, commemorating her time as a CSI, from the day she started to when she retired. Alexx had made Kai a collage of the CSIs, including Tim Speedle. Ryan got her a couple of mugs that had to do with her Italian heritage. Frank got her an authentic food gift basket from Italy. Nataila got her a bunch of bath stuff. And Valera got her a gift certificate to a spa call The Breakers.

Horatio and the kids didn't get her anything. The kids hadn't known about the party. Horatio had only just found out himself, and hand had time to relay the message to the kids before they all rejoined their mom.

Kai was so overwhelmed with the kindness of her friends that she cried happy tears. "Thank you everyone," Kai said. "You guys are so amazing, Ryan I really loved the mugs. Alexx...this collage is beautiful, I'm glad you included Tim in it"

"Of course baby," Alexx said. "Can't leave Timmy out, but I did leave one out and that was hard to do"

"I get it," she said. "Thank you for doing that for me"

"You're welcome baby" she said. "I know this is a hard part of your life right now"

Ryan pulled Horatio aside to talk to him about the three letters Eric had written. One each for the twins, and one for Kai.

"Mr. Wolfe," Horatio said. "She's not going to want that letter from Eric; I don't think she's going to forgive him"

"I told him I would give the letters to them H," Ryan said. "I can't go back on my promise to him. I think he realizes now he's not getting her back and he's feeling bad for shooting her"

"He should've felt bad when he shot her," He said. "He's tried to shoot me a couple of times, so why them? Why not a letter for me?"

He shrugged. "I don't know H," he said. "Maybe he wants to tell you in person, or tried to and you brushed him off. I'm going to put these letters in their stockings and head out; welcome home"

"Maybe- I'll go see him later or tomorrow," Horatio said. "Right now, I'm not leaving my wife alone"

Ryan nodded. He went to the stockings and put the three letters in them and told Calleigh he was leaving. "It was nice to see you again, Kai," Ryan said. "Merry Christmas."

"Oh!" Kai before he left. "For anyone that doesn't have plans, you can come by and pick up some food for Christmas. Or we can bring it, just text Calleigh what you want if you are at PD with her. If that's okay with you, Calleigh.."

"That's fine," Calleigh said. "Your food was such a big hit at Thanksgiving, I think it would be nice to do it again at Christmas."

"Your ravioli is really good," Ryan said. "I look forward to that"

"Well then, tomorrow I will start on dinner plans and gifts!" Kai said. "Tonight, you bet your butts I'm sleeping, I might take a sleep aid so I can actually rest."

After Ryan left, Horatio pulled Calleigh aside to see if she would be staying home, so he could go run another errand or two.

"Yes," she said. "I'm staying here, I only went into work for a bit. Go do your errands."

Horatio nodded. He went to Kai and softly told her he had errands to run that he had forgotten.

"Alright, H," Kai said. "Be safe, I love you. Oh can you pick up some sleep aid for me, please?"

"Sure, Kai," Horatio said. "I'll be back"

When Frank and Walter had gone, it was just the kids, Alexx, and Calleigh. Kai cleaned up from the party and made the kids something light. She sent them to their room to eat, so the adults could talk.

Kai knew she had to go shopping for the holiday food and gifts, and she made a grocery list as she cleaned up. "Alexx," she said as she worked. "I'm not taking those pills, I don't think I need them yet"

Alexx looked at her. "Look, Kai," Alexx said. "They are to help you, I wouldn't have prescribed them if I didn't think you needed them."

This was one argument Calleigh didn't want to step into, but knew she had to. "Alexx," Calleigh said. "If things get worse for her, she will take them I'm sure. I'm almost 100% sure that Kai is an herbalist; she'll try something natural first."

"You're right Calleigh," Kai said. "I am an herbalist. I would rather try nature's stuff than man made stuff. IF and only IF I need the pills I will take them. But I think I'll be just fine after some decent sleep. It's been a stressful week. I've lost all but one of my Hawaiian family members. I'm still stressing out over court and whether the kids and I will have to go, even though Horatio said we won't...I feel like I have to face Eric. I'm never going to be truly myself again like when my parents were alive and together, but I'm going to get as close as I can."

Alexx looked disappointed. "Well then, I won't be here for Christmas," she said. "I have a family of my own, and I'm tired of coming to your rescue. Especially when you refuse to help yourself." Alexx then grabbed her stuff and left.

"Alexx!" Kai said going after her. "Alexx, wait!"

Alexx turned and looked at her. She was upset. "What Kailani?" she asked.

Kai was taken aback by this. "I'm sorry," she said. "But you should've asked me how I felt before prescribing depression medicine. You're my friend; please come over for Christmas. I'll do what I did for Thanksgiving. Turkey, ham, everything American, Italian. Please, our kids have so much fun together"

Alexx paused for a moment, but didn't agree. She shook her head sadly. "Good-bye Kailani" she said as she got in the car, leaving Kai to stand there alone, confused and hurt. Alexx then start towards home, and Kai went back into the house.

The next few days passed in a blur for Kai as she got ready for Christmas. She had sent Horatio and the kids out shopping for groceries and Christmas things. She had already made and bagged quite a bit of food for Walter and her other friends. Out of habit, she made some for Alexx too.

Christmas Eve Day was where the magic happened. The four of them made cookies for "Santa", and watched the parade. Kai got the turkey prepared to be cooked. Kani had made the lasagna with his mother's instructions. "Perfect! We'll cook this tomorrow Kani," Kai praised him. "It looks amazing figlio" (son)

"Thanks mama," Kani said. "I want to be able to cook like you. I know I complain about always having Italian food. But really, I just want to be able to cook for myself. I know it's a long process, but I can freeze a lot of this. I want to make you proud of me, mama."

Kai hugged both kids to her. "I'm very proud of you both," she said. "I'm sorry this last week has been a nightmare, but..we'll get through it. I know I usually run when things get tough. I'm not doing that anymore. With Horatio and you guys by myside, along with our friends, anything is possible."

That night, Kai gave Horatio stuff to take to Alexx. "Please give this to her," Kai said, handing him a basket of homemade food for Alexx's family along with an apology letter. "I love you and drive safe."

Horatio nodded and took everything, then kissed her and left. Kai got the kids off to bed after they had set up everything for Santa. She read to them, tucked them in and kissed them both, then went to the living room where Calleigh sat looking at some cases.

"Working on Christmas Eve?" Kai teased. "Shame on you"

Calleigh laughed and looked over. "Okay, Captain," she teased back. "I could use another pair of eyes. I feel like I'm missing something"

Kai laughed and sat down looking over the files with Calleigh.

Meanwhile Horatio arrived at Alexx's. He went inside to sit and talk with her. He had convinced her to take the basket and read the letter from Kai.

"I don't know, Horatio..." Alexx said. "I don't feel right going over tomorrow..I said some mean things to her, and she said some things to me that I didn't like either"

"Alexx," Horatio said. "Do you remember when I said she wouldn't be happy with having to take medicine?"

She nodded. "Is that what you were trying to tell me?" she asked. "That she's an herbalist first? Then why, when she was shot by Eric did she take the pills? Why not the herbs?"

"Because," he said. "She couldn't grind up what she needed, her shoulder was too sore for that. So, she really didn't have a choice but to take the pills. Kai misses you. Don't let an argument between the two of you end a nine year friendship"

"I've come to her aid often," Alexx said. "And so have the rest of us. She doesn't do anything for us in return."

"Never?" Horatio asked. "I doubt that's true, that's not Kai. Maybe the things she does are so subtle you don't notice."

Alexx really thought about what Horatio was saying. She remembered that when Kai left for Alaska, there were things sent down to her, with a card that said "Thank you," There had been times when Kai sent Alexx a gift card so she could go grocery shopping, or shopping for herself.

"You're right Horatio," she said. "There's always been some sort of subtle way she says thank you. When she lived in Alaska, she sent a bunch of neat stuff with a card. And other times; gift cards, just when I needed them the most. I don't know how she knows, but she always seems to sense when her friends need cheering up"

Horatio nodded. "Please come over tomorrow," he said. "She talks about you and the kids all the time. How you and Calleigh are her best girl friends. She said when you told her good-bye, she felt crushed. But she didn't let it bother her, she kept making things for you- and your family anyway. She wants you two to cook dinner side by side one night. She loves you, Alexx. Kai gives all her love to everyone around her. There isn't a time she slows down for herself. That's not her, that's not what she does"

"I don't know Horatio..." Alexx said. "I prescribed her antidepressants and she won't take them. What's the point of doing things for her, if she doesn't take what I give her?"

"Well then, take your time and think about it. We'll be around when you're ready," Horatio said. "No pressure. Just knowing you got the stuff will make Kai happy."

Alexx nodded and walked him to the door. "I will think about it, Horatio," she said. "Merry Christmas, and welcome home, if I haven't already said it."

"Merry Christmas, Alexx," Horatio said. "Stay safe."

Horatio made one last stop before heading home. He stopped and picked up the bracelets from Hawaii but wasn't sure if she was going to want them. So he went and got her a couple of new bracelets too, and wrote a note to go with them. He had them wrapped while he was at the store.

Meanwhile, at home, Kai was working on Horatio's gift. She was making him a blanket and a scrapbook of photos and mementos from when they were younger. She liked making homemade gifts; they felt more special than store bought. She was making Walter a bunch of pasta that he could heat up and eat. Ryan and the rest of her friends, she frowned at. Kai didn't feel like she was being a good friend to anyone, especially as of late.

The twins were coming up with ideas of their own for their mom. Or trying to come up with ideas, anyway. "What should we do Kani?" Bella asked. "We gotta do something for her, she's our mom!"

"I don't know, Bella," Kani said. "I'm sure whatever we try, she's going to cry or get mad...her mood swings lately have been rough..."

Bella nodded and looked at the construction paper. It gave her an idea. "I know!" she said. "We can make her and dad some coupons!"

"Coupons?" Kani asked. "Coupons for what?"

"To be redeemed anytime they want!" Bella said. "Coupons for things like- helping with dishes, putting them away or washing them. Hugs, little things like that. Little things to show them that- we love them and appreciate the things they do for us."

"Yeah!" Kani said getting to work. "Let's give them a nice little surprise!"

They got to work on the Christmas gifts as Kai finished up the scrapbook. 'Now to finish the blanket' she thought to herself. She was very thankful that her mom had taught her how to knit and crochet. It was something she had done for years, but kept others in the dark about it. She usually knitted and crocheted while the kids were at school, while she watched TV. She went to the closet to get the blanket. Horatio would be home soon, so she decided she would wait until everyone was in bed to finish it.

Kai left the TV on and got up to make dinner. She decided on spaghetti with meat sauce, and some of the leftover bread. When she got up, she noticed her stocking and the kids' stockings and looked in them. Kai saw the letters from Eric. 'Why?' Kai thought to herself. 'Why won't he leave me alone?'

A short time later, Horatio came home to find Kai in the kitchen making dinner. He had her gifts hidden in his coat. He leaned in and kissed her. "What's on the menu tonight?" he asked.

"Spaghetti with meat sauce and bread," Kai said. "Did Alexx get the basket?"

"Yes, she did," he said. "I wouldn't count on her coming tomorrow, though"

Kai sighed deeply. "It's all because of the pills, isn't it?" Kai asked. "I would understand if I didn't have a choice, or anything else to try, but, in this case I did have a choice...I just feel like a bad friend. I know I'm not it just the way I feel"

Horatio pulled her to him and hugged her. "You're not a bad friend," Horatio said. "I love you, our friends love you. Alexx appreciated the basket, I told her to think about it, about coming over. She knows of all the little, subtle things you've done for her. Everything will work out, don't give up hope" He then kissed her forehead and gave her a smile.

Kai looked up at him, her eyes so full of love for this man. In the five short months they had been married, both of them have been through so much trauma, Kai more than Horatio. Kai knew with all her heart that they would, have ups and downs, but she was really hoping for more ups, than downs in their future together. There was nothing she wouldn't do for the man who was doing his very best to comfort her. Kai couldn't ask for more than what Horatio was already giving her...and that was all of him.

Shortly after dinner the kids had their baths. They also got to watch a couple of shows and open one gift each from under the tree. Kai had taken the letters out of their stockings so it wouldn't ruin their Christmas.

Both twins got microscopes for Christmas. When they opened them they were very surprised. "Whoa...!!!" Kani and Bella said in unison. "Thanks!!"

"You're welcome," Kai said. "Now, it's time to get ready for bed. Please take those to your rooms and then we'll set out cookies and milk."

"Yes, mama," they said, running off to their rooms to get ready for bed.

"And as for you, Lieutenant," she said to H as they were standing under the mistletoe. "I order you to kiss me"

Horatio looked up and smiled. "Yes ma'am," Horatio said kissing her deeply. Then he slowly broke the kiss. "Will that do Captain?"

Calleigh had caught it on camera and giggled. "You two are so cute together!" she said. "I'm going to retire to my room for the night, goodnight and Merry Christmas"

Kai blushed. "Yes, Lieutenant," Kai said. "That will do." She then turned and went to hug Calleigh. "I love you, Calleigh; I'm so glad you're my friend. Sleep well."

Calleigh hugged her back. "I love you too," she said. "I'm so proud to be your friend." Calleigh then smiled to Horatio and went to her room

The twins came out of their room very excited. "We don't know if we'll be able to sleep" Bella said. "We're so excited!!"

"Come on, babies," Kai said. "Let's get the milk and cookies out! Oh! Any last minute gifts you have please put them out before you forget."

Isabella and Kani ran to their rooms to get the coupon books and put them in Horatio and Kai's stockings. "There, last minute gifts completed!" Bella said.

"Good job, babies!" Kai praised them. "H, could you get a small plate down, and a glass please? I'm overdoing it, and my shoulder is starting to throb a bit"

Horatio smiled and kissed the tip of her nose before going to the kitchen. The twins followed him.

Once they were in the kitchen Kai looked at the wall. There were five stockings where there should have been six. 'It's my first Christmas without mama...' Kai thought to herself. 'I can't let the kids see me cry anymore..they've seen enough tears'

Kai took a couple of deep breaths to calm her nerves. She put on a smile and turned around as Horatio and the kids came into the living room with the milk and cookies. She helped them put the snacks down. "Perfect!" she said to them.

"Mama," Kani said softly. "I miss Nonna"

"Me too," Bella said. "It's our first Christmas without her"

"I know," Kai said. "I know this is going to be hard, but- you know, Nonna's spirit is always with us and she loves us very much. I miss her too. How about we put Nonna's stocking up? Would that help?"

They nodded, but both were unsure if it would help them. Thanksgiving was hard, but Kai made it special for them, like she would make Christmas special for them now. She understood this was hard for them; she had felt the same way when her dad died. But Kai had learned his spirit never left her and he was always there, just like her mom was there now.

Horatio hung up Isabella's stocking, making sure it was perfect before joining his family. Bella and Kani went to the stocking and touched it gently. "Buon Natale Nonna" (Merry Christmas Grandma) they said in unison. "We love and miss you so much" Kani said.

Kai smiled softly. "Come on" she said gently. "Let's get you two to bed."

The twins took her hands and walked with her. Horatio watched them walk away. As he watched them, he swore he saw Isabella with her family. While Kai was putting the twins to bed, Horatio put her Hawaiian- made bracelets in her stocking, and her other bracelets under the tree.

Horatio went to the closet to get something out for Calleigh, and saw the blanket. 'Who made this?' Horatio asked himself. 'Was it Kai?' He thought about it for a minute, then shook his head before grabbing Calleigh's gift. It wasn't anything big, just a gift card for a spa. And it was of course Kai's idea. Calleigh, like himself, didn't know when to stop working.

In Bella's room, Kai helped her daughter settle into bed. The girls talked for a few minutes, and then Kai gave her a big hug, like she had done to Kani. "I love you so much, Bella," Kai said. "You and Kani are the best thing to be brought into my life."

"Better than Horatio even?" Bella asked genuinely curious.

"Including Horatio," she said. "But now I wonder which one of you would have had the red hair like his" Kai giggled at this thought, seeing Bella with more of Horatio's red hair and Kani having the blonde-ish brown hair like her own. "Goodnight my sweet girl, sweet dreams" She tucked Bella in and left the room closing the door behind her, like she had for Kani's room.

Horatio looked behind him to see his beautiful wife coming towards him. "Hey, beautiful," he said. "Do me the honors of a dance?"

"Hey yourself," Kai said. "Of course, I would love to dance with you"

Horatio turned on the CD he had found and played it. The first song to play was "When I Said I Do" by Clint Black. It was one of Kai's favorite songs as of late, and she would listen to it over and over. Horatio pulled her close to him as Clint crooned.

As they danced Kai sang along softly as she looked into Horatio's eyes. "Only you and I can undo, all that we became. That makes us so much more than a woman and a man. And after everything that comes and goes around, has only passed us by, here alone in our dreams. I know there's a lonely heart in every lost and found, but forever you and I will be the ones, who found out what forever means. When I said I do, I meant that I will 'til the end of all time. Be faithful and true, devoted to you, that's what I had in mind when I said I do"

Horatio looked down into her eyes, that held so much love. The song changed from Clint Black to; Keith Urban's Making Memories of Us. Horatio and Kai really hadn't danced together since their wedding day, five months ago. He had seen her dance, of course, and she was supposed to dance at the luau, but never did. The lyrics rang out: "And I wanna stand out in a crowd for you. A man among men, I wanna make your world better than it's ever been. And I'm going to love you, like nobody loves you. And I'll earn your trust making memories of us." Neither of them sang, but the song hit differently for Kai this time. It was more believable, because her true love was by her side.

Once the song ended, Horatio dipped Kai and kissed her. Kai kissed him back, with all the love and passion she had for him. He broke the kiss and touched her cheek gently. "I love you so much," Horatio said. "And I meant what the song said. I want to make your world better than it's ever been. Always."

Kai looked up at him. "I love you, Horatio," Kai said. "Always and forever."

"Forever and always," he said kissing her again. "So...there is a blanket in the closet, Captain; would you like to explain to me how it got there?"

"You saw it?!" Kai asked. "Oh H...that was supposed to be a surprise! It's for you, it's part of your Christmas gift. I made it for you"

"I'm sorry," Horatio said. "I was getting some gifts out of the closet and saw it. You don't have to hide your passion from me. If you like to do things like that, then do so."

"Really?" Kai said softly. "It's not done yet, but here soon it will be, I was trying to get it done tonight, but I'm still so tired and jet lagged."

"I know your mom taught you how to crochet and knit," he started. "But you shouldn't have to hide it. I'm sorry I peeked, I didn't know. It felt really soft though."

"You think so?" she asked. "I can show you before we go to bed...oh, the milk and cookies and the rest of the gifts..."

Horatio took her by the shoulders gently. "Kai," he said. "Go to bed, I will take care of everything else. The sleep aid is in the bag on the table; take one and go lay down. I'll be in shortly."

Kai hugged him. "I love you so much Horatio," she said softly. She felt safe in his arms. "I'm so glad you're my husband."

Horatio hugged her again. He wished he could take away all the hurt and pain she had gone through in life, but that was what patience and understanding was for. "I love you so much too," he said, petting her hair. "I'm honored to be your husband, and I'm just as honored to have you as my wife. Now..go to bed."

Kai giggled a bit and gave him a quick kiss before going to the kitchen to grab the sleep aid. She then went to brush her teeth and change into her pajamas, and left the sleep aid on the nightstand. After she was done she crawled into bed, snuggled down and fell asleep without the use of the sleep aid.

After Kai had gone into the bedroom Horatio took a bite of cookie and drank some milk. He then put the rest of the gifts out. He saw the three letters in the closet on the top shelf and shook his head, knowing that at some point Kai would have to give the kids their letters and she would have to read hers. Or she wouldn't, the choice was up to her. Horatio looked around the house and locked up before retiring for the night. Tomorrow was going to be busy, full of fun and laughter.

Around six a.m. the next morning the twins shot out of their beds to see if Santa had come. And he had. "Whoa!" Kani said excitedly. "He took a bite of cookie and drank almost all the milk!! We should go get mom and dad up!"

Isabella nodded excitedly as well. "And Calleigh!!" Bella said. "Let's go, you get mom and dad..I'll get Calleigh!!"

They split up and went into the bedrooms. Kani went into Horatio and Kai's room and found Kai. She was half sleeping on Horatio, and Horatio's arm was holding her close to him. Kani almost didn't want to wake them up, but his excitement was too much. "Mom!! Dad!!" he said. "Santa was here!!"

"Who was here?" Kai asked sleepily, trying to wake up. "Kani, it's like three am son...go back to bed."

Kani shook his head. "Mama, it's 6:15 in the morning," he said. "Bella and I would like to open our gifts, please and we made some for you and dad too!!"

"Alright, alright..." Kai said, uncurling herself from Horatio. "Go to the living room, we'll be right there."

Meanwhile in Calleigh's room, Bella was trying to wake Calleigh up by shaking her foot. "Calleigh," she said. "Calleigh, Santa was here!! Please get up so we can open gifts!"

Calleigh opened her eyes and looked at the clock. "Okay, okay," she said. "Scoot so I can get up and at least get a house coat on and slippers on."

Both Kani and Bella met each other in the hall outside the bedrooms and went to the living room to inspect the gifts.

Kai threw the covers over herself and went back to sleep; Calleigh had done the same thing.

When Horatio, Kai, and Calleigh didn't come out right away, the twins turned on the TV and watched some kid friendly shows until the adults got up. Kai was the first one to stir, around 6:45. She then kissed Horatio as she got out of bed. After using the bathroom and washing her hands, she made her way out to the kitchen to make coffee for everyone. "Morning babies, Merry Christmas," she said.

Bella looked over. "Mama!!" she said. "Come look!!"

Once the coffee was on, Kai made her way to the living room. "Oh my goodness!!" she said looking at the gifts. "Wow! I'm sorry I didn't get up sooner, babies!"

"It's okay, mama," Kani said. "We figured you guys were still a little tired, I know you haven't slept well since we came home. Did you sleep okay last night?"

"I did, actually," Kai said. "H told me to go to bed, and I did. No sleep aid required. Would you guys like a bagel or something to drink before we open gifts?"

Horatio and Calleigh, finally left their rooms as well, as the coffee finished brewing.

"Mama," Bella said. "What does coffee taste like?"

"It has a bitter taste," Kai told the twins honestly. "But I like mine with some sugar and milk. Would you both like a sip before I add the other things?"

They shook their heads no and waited for the adults to grab their coffees and return to the living room.

Kai made Horatio's coffee just the way he liked it, then stepped out of Calleigh's way so she could get hers. "Merry Christmas Calleigh," Kai told her.

"Merry Christmas, Kai," Calleigh said back. "You look rested."

"I am," Kai said honestly. "Horatio and I danced last night for the first time since our wedding day. He told me to go to bed, he would lock up and come in. I did, and I fell asleep quickly, no sleep aid required." Kai felt proud to have fallen asleep without having to take the medicine.

Calleigh hugged Kai again. She was proud of her. "Great job!" she praised.

Horatio smiled, and let the two ladies go first to the living room. Both ladies thanked him, and walked into the living room to see the twins waiting impatiently to open gifts.

On the last Christmas with Kai's mom Isabella, Kani had passed out gifts. So technically, it would have been the elder Isabella's turn. "H," Kai said softly. "Would you hand out gifts? This time it would have been mama's turn, but..."

"I would love to," Horatio said, softly kissing her head. He sat on the floor. He started with the twins, as Calleigh and Kai sat on the floor as well.

Once all the gifts were opened, the twins took off to their rooms to play with their CSI kits and microscopes. Kai smiled softly, then got up to start breakfast.

Once in the kitchen, Kai stood at the counter and just let the tears fall. She thought back to when Isabella had first gotten those CSI kits.


Kai and her mother had been out shopping for the day, when Nonna had spotted the kits in the toy section. "Kai, prendiamo questi per i gemelli. Questo sarebbe un ottimo regalo di Natale per loro. Non vedo l'ora di vederli aprire" Isabella had said. ("Kai, let's get these for the twins. This would make a great Christmas present for them. I can't wait to watch them open it!")

Kai had agreed and put them in the cart. "Mamma, perché non metti anche un biglietto nella scatola, da te. Amano i tuoi appunti" Kai had suggested to her mom. (Mom, why not put a note in the box too, from you. They love your notes")

Isabella agreed as they walked around the store. There was one other gift, Isabella had picked out and it was for Kai. It was a heart sculpture with words of love written for it. She was hoping to give it to Kai for her birthday, but it felt more like a Mother's Day gift. One Isabella knew Kai would love for all time.

When the twins opened their kits, they each found a hand written letter from Isabella. They sat down to read them.

Horatio and Calleigh heard Kai crying in the kitchen, and rushed to her side quickly. "Kai," Horatio said. "Kai, what's wrong? Are you hurt, is everything okay?" He quickly checked her over. Finding nothing wrong physically, he pulled her in for a hug.

"I'll make breakfast," Calleigh told Horatio. "She needs you right now."

Horatio nodded, and took Kai to the living room as the kids came out of their rooms. "Mama..." Kani said softly.

Horatio patted the couch for the twins to come and sit. They went and sat with Kai. The three of them were very quiet as Kani handed Kai his letter from Isabella. As Kai read it, it started a fresh wave of tears.

Bella looked at the tree and noticed something under it. "Mama," she said. "There's another gift under the tree."

"I thought Horatio had gotten all the gifts from under the tree already," Calleigh said from the kitchen. "Do you kids want scrambled eggs with bacon?"

"Yes, please," Kani said.

"Yes, please, Calleigh" Bella said as well. "We got these letters, in our CSI kits"

Kai smiled. Her mom had taken her advice. "I suggested that Nonna put the notes in there for you guys. Keep those close," Kai said. She went to get the other gift that hadn't been there before.

As Kai picked it up, she noticed it was heavy. "What did you get me, mama?" Kai asked softly. She opened the gift and gasped. "Oh..."

Horatio watched her. "Kai," he said softly. "Kai, what's wrong? What is it?"

Kai held up the heart sculpture. "This was supposed to be my mother's day gift, but now it's my Christmas gift instead." she said. "This is the last thing other than the letter that I have from mama."

Calleigh stayed in the kitchen cooking breakfast for everyone, as the others talked about the gifts and letters. As they talked, Kai's phone rang. It was Lokelani.

Kai looked down at the phone and smiled. She answered, then put the call speaker phone. "Mele Kalikimaka e ke kaikuahine" she said smiling. ("Merry Christmas sister")

"Mele Kalikimaka, Kai," Lani said. "I have something for you and your family, and it's being sent along with the rest of your stuff to Horatio's. I hope you all like it."

"Including Calleigh?" Kai asked. "Because, you know you didn't have to do that."

"Yes, including Calleigh," Lani said. "I think she's charming."

"Why, thank you," Calleigh called back from the kitchen, hearing the conversation on speaker. "I think you're charming too, but you didn't have to do that."

Lokelani laughed. "I can't wait for you to see it," she said. "I'm so glad I met you, and I'm so happy I got to meet up with you again, Kai. Horatio said maybe over spring break you'll come to New York."

"Yeah!!" the twins said in unison. "Mama can we? Please?!"

"I don't see why not," Kai said. "I would love to eat at Lani's restaurant; it's been way too long."

"Great!" Lani said. "The four of you will stay at my place. Don't even try to argue with me on this"

"Never!" Kai giggled. "No arguments here. Alright dear. Calleigh was gracious enough to cook for us this morning. Then it's going to be busy and hopping in here with our friends. Next Christmas, you're coming to Florida, no ifs ands or buts about it!"

"Deal!" Lani agreed. "I'll be there! Love you all. Later."

"Later," Kai said softly. "I love you too." She then hung up, and everyone ate breakfast and talked about spring break.

Calleigh had asked what they were going to have for dinner that evening. Kai told her everything. "Oh!" Calleigh said. "That sounds amazing!! "A mix of both Italian and American! It was a hit last time!"

"I'm going to help again, mama!" Kani said. "I want to learn everything from you!!"

Kai smiled. "I would like that," she said. "H, you and Bella can entertain guests when they come over."

"Will do, boss," Horatio said chuckling. "Come on, Bella, let's go get dressed and get ready for the day."

Kai cleaned up the kitchen as everyone got dressed. Once Calleigh came out of her room, Kai went to get dressed herself. When she came back she had her hair up with a flowered hair pin; it was a gift her dad had given her before he died, and it was special to her.

"Alright!" she said. "Let's get this party started!! H, please turn on some Christmas music"

Horatio did so, and everyone got started on what they were doing. Kai began showing Kani the basics to Italian cooking, and Kani picked it up quickly.

Once there was a rhythm established in the kitchen, everything came together, and the guests started to arrive. The first to arrive were Alexx and her kids.

Horatio answered the door and smiled. "Merry Christmas ma'am," he said, moving out of the way to let them in. Once Alexx was in he leaned over. "This will make Kai so happy," he whispered.

Alexx nodded and smiled as she entered the house. "Kailani!" Alexx said.

Kai turned to see Alexx standing there and smiled. "Merry Christmas, Alexx!" she said happily. "I'm so glad you could come!"

Isabella took the kids to the living room, and they started to play a game.

Calleigh could sense a little friction remaining between Alexx and Kai. "Alexx, come cook with us," Calleigh said. "We would enjoy it!"

"No, thank you," Alexx said. "I'll go sit in the living room with the kids."

Kai looked at Alexx and sighed softly, then continued to cook. She felt defeated. "Excuse me," she said to Calleigh and Kani. She went to the bedroom and closed the door, then locked herself in the bathroom and cried.

They all watched Kai go into the bedroom and heard the bathroom door slam shut. The twins knew when she was like this it was best to let her be. Horatio gave her ten minutes to sit and cry, before going to get her.

He knocked on the bathroom door. "Kai," he said softly. "Kai, please unlock the door and let me in."

Kai sniffled and unlocked the door, and looked up at him. "I'm sorry," she whispered softly. "I wanted today to be a good day...I'll go back out and I'll be a good hostess, but I don't think there is a friendship between Alexx and I anymore"

Horatio held her close and rubbed her back. "You got this," Horatio said softly. "I'm still here and Calleigh is too. And give things between you and Alexx a chance; give it a little time."

Kai nodded and washed her face, then went back out with Horatio. She kissed him softly. "Thank you," she mouthed going back to the kitchen; she avoided looking at Alexx.

Alexx watched her kids and Isabella play. When Horatio came in the living room, she looked up. "Merry Christmas, Horatio," she said.

Horatio nodded and smiled, watching Isabella playing with the kids. "How has your day been?" he asked. "Good, I hope?"

"Very good," Alexx said. "How's it been here today?"

As they sat and talked Kai zoned out. It wasn't the first time she had done this. Kai had zoned out before when she was pregnant. But now, as there was nothing physically or mentally wrong with her, there was no reason for her to do it again.

Calleigh touched her shoulder and whispered her name. "Kai," she whispered. "Are you okay?"

Kai jumped. "Calleigh," Kai said. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to zone out. Kani go play, baby. Thank you for your help."

Kani looked at Calleigh, then at his mom, and nodded. He knew better than to argue with her; instead he went to the living room to join the others.

Calleigh and Kai continued to cook as more people arrived at the house. Horatio let all the guests in and they all gathered in the living room.

Kai brought out some bruschetta to whet everyone's appetites, and set the tray on the table. "Enjoy," she said going back to the kitchen.

Everyone took one and bit into it. It was a heavenly flavor that they all enjoyed. This was a rare treat for the twins; bruschetta was one of their favorites.

Calleigh took some drinks into the living room for everyone to enjoy. "Dinner should be ready here soon," Calleigh said. "I believe it's going to be a buffet style."

Kai was getting everything set up on the table as the kids played. Calleigh went to help her, "No, I got it." Kai told her. "It's okay"

Calleigh called everyone to dinner. The very last person to take anything was Kai, as she was still cooking and baking.

Horatio went to the kitchen and whispered in her ear. "Come sit and eat," he said quietly. "It's okay to do so"

"I can't," Kai said. "I don't have time to eat...I zoned out again"

Horatio looked concerned. "Kai.." he said.

Kai waved him off as she kept cooking. She ate as she cooked. She didn't want to be around Alexx, because her feelings were hurt and she knew the friendship was over. So she opted to stay in the kitchen; she knew it was safer there than in the living room.

Horatio took his food to the living room, and sat to eat. Everyone sat talking. The only other person that noticed Kai hadn't made an appearance in the living room was Calleigh. She started to get up to check on Kai, but Horatio caught her eye and shook his head.

Kai ate in the kitchen alone, away from everyone. The hurt was hard to deal with. It wasn't comfortable to sit and break bread with someone that really didn't want to be there, who had only agreed come because of the kids.

Alone with her thoughts int he kitchen, Kai reflected on the first time she met Alexx, and everything that had led up to that day. She had been so very grateful to meet Alexx, and to call her friend. It was hard to believe the friendship was coming to an end, after so many years.

In January the kids went back to school. The teachers asked how everyone's Christmas was and the twins replied that their Christmas had been alright. The teachers asked for more information, but the twins didn't want to talk about it. They dropped it and moved on.

Both fourth grade teachers decided to do a play about the CSIs. Since both of the twins' parents were CSIs, the teachers felt that the kids could learn a lot from both of them.

Mr. Suzuki and Miss Jones asked the twins if their parents could come in to talk to them about the play. They invited Calleigh too. The twins agreed; they knew Kai would be picking them up from school at the end of the day.

"Mr. Suzuki," Kani said. "you can talk to my mom when she gets here later. I'm sure she'll want to help with this."

"Oh, Kani," Mr. Suzuki said, "I know she will! She'll probably want to be in charge, maybe direct the play. And I'll talk to Miss Jones about it."

Kani nodded, knowing he was right. His mother liked to be involved with the kids, and that included being involved with school events as well.

Meanwhile, at home, Kai was getting things set up for dinner. It was everyone's first day back to school and work. Calleigh had gone in early, and Horatio had been right behind her. While everyone was gone, Kai took the time to bring the blanket out; she worked on it so she could give it to Horatio. As she was getting things from the closet, she saw the letters. She decided now was the right time to give the twins their letters, and to read hers as well.

Horatio took some special treats in to work for the other CSIs, courtesy of Kai. She spoiled him, and he knew it. Horatio couldn't see himself, or his future, without Kai in his life. His first stop of the day was the jailhouse; he wanted to talk to Eric.

The guard led Horatio into a room and went to get Eric. When they came back, Eric looked a little thinner than when Horatio had last seen him. "Eric," Horatio said.

"H," Eric said. "How's Lani and the kids? Did they get the letters I asked Wolfe to take over? Do the twins have any questions for me?"

"The twins and Kai are fine," Horatio said. "As for the letters, Kai took them out of the stockings and put them away. It was a hard enough Christmas for them without the letters. I'm sure Kai will give the twins the letters sometime soon. But right now she's not ready for the questions that she doesn't have the answers for."

Eric sighed deeply. "I messed up so bad, H," he said. "I was so determined to be with her again and repair our relationship and build one with the twins, that...that I couldn't see how much I was actually hurting her. I just wanted us to be happy again like we were before I messed everything up for us. Now I don't get to see them at all. And I'm sure they never ask about me, I'm sure Lani has nothing nice to say about me. I don't want them in court, H. If I were to see her and the kids again, I'd do every stupid thing that led up to my arrest, all over again." he explained. Then he turned and yelled for the corrections officer. "Guard."

Horatio listened to everything Eric had said. "Eric," Horatio said, "Kai hardly ever speaks of you. She never talks ill about you. When she does talk about you, it's to the twins, and she tells them how thankful she is to you for giving her the two most precious people in her life. Kai has mentioned that she doesn't want to come to court; she's afraid of you. You've hurt her so badly that it's even hard for her to trust me, her husband."

Eric looked at Horatio before he was taken away. Horatio could see the hate for him, and the hurt in his eyes. The hurt for what he had done to Kailani. Horatio knew Eric regretted hurting Kai, and he didn't blame Eric a bit for hating him.

Horatio went to the lab, where everyone welcomed him back. Calleigh waited to fill him in on everything. He thanked everyone, and then gave Calleigh his undivided attention.

They walked together and talked about cases. As they talked Alexx came in to see Horatio. Calleigh and Horatio looked over. "Excuse me," Calleigh told Horatio; she turned and walked away, to give he and Alexx some privacy.

H nodded and walked over to Alexx. "Alexx," Horatio said. "Alexx, to what do I owe this pleasure?"

"Hello, Horatio," Alexx said. "How's your wife doing?"

"Kai?" he asked. "She's fine; why do you ask?"

"Unless you have some other wife," Alexx remarked. "Yes, Kai. Because I noticed that when we came over, she never came to sit with us while we ate. My kids really enjoyed themselves with the twins, but I didn't expect Kai to be that rude."

Horatio sighed softly. "Alexx," Horatio said. "Alexx, she didn't eat with us because she wasn't comfortable with everything that happened between the two of you. After everyone left, she told me it felt like you were only there for the kids. When Calleigh asked you to cook with them, Kai had hoped you would agree. When you said no, it crushed her," he explained. "She told me it was hard to break bread with anyone who was there just for the kids. She couldn't face you, because she was embarrassed." "Kai still hasn't taken what you prescribed for her," he went on, "but she's been doing well. Pretty soon things will be getting busy- before long she'll get involved with the school again. And we have plans for spring break and summer break. So, if you want to go over and talk to her, now would be a good time. I'm sure Kai would like that. It hurt her to lose such a good friend."

Alexx listened to Horatio's words. "Me not cooking with them crushed Kai?" Alexx asked. "Why would that crush her? It's not like she's ever invited me to do so before!" she exclaimed surprised. "My point is, I miss her. And I really don't want to end this friendship over a prescription I wrote for her before Christmas."

"I can call her, if you would like me to," Horatio offered. "And ask if she's okay with you coming over to talk."

Alexx nodded. She stepped back a bit to give Horatio time to talk to Kai. He made the call, and Kai answered. "Hey handsome," Kai said.

"Hey beautiful," Horatio said. "Are you up for some company today?"

Kai looked at her watch. "Yes," she said. "I have some time before I go get the twins. Who's coming over?"

"Alexx," Horatio told her. "Is that okay? She would really like to talk with you"

'Oh, NOW she wants to talk to me?' Kai thought to herself. But she didn't say it. "Yes, that's fine" she said instead. "I love you,"

"I love you too," Horatio said hanging up. "Yes," he told Alexx. "You can go over; she's expecting you."

"Thanks Horatio," Alexx said. "I'll talk to you soon."

Horatio nodded and walked off to check on his team. 'Good luck' Horatio thought to himself, turning to watch Alexx leave. 'You're going to need it.'

At home, Kai put her crocheting away and did some light cleaning. The house was rarely dirty; no one was exempt from her wrath when it was. She was nervous. She hadn't seen Alexx since Christmas which hadn't been very long ago. The Caine family's Christmas tree up; it was tradition to leave it up until the 6th of January.

Alexx left the PD, and headed over to Horatio's house to talk to Kai. She didn't know what she would say when she got there. She thought about it all the way to the house.

In the kitchen, Kai heard the bread machine go off. She had made sourdough to go with the lasagna for that night's dinner. "Oh, does that smell good!" she said out loud. "I can't wait to dive into it with Horatio, Calleigh, and the kids!"

When Alexx arrived, she sat in her car a few minutes before getting out and knocking on the door. Kai answered it and let Alexx in. "Mmm, it smells wonderful in here!" Alexx said, looking to the living room. She was surprised to see the Christmas tree still up. "Um, Kai...the tree?"

"Thank you," Kai said. "I'm just getting things ready for dinner tonight. And yeah, the tree stays up until the 6th; it's an Italian tradition. Now, what can I do for you?" Kai offered Alexx some tea or coffee, and Alexx chose tea. Kai made two cups and brought them to the dining room table. "Come sit"

Alexx followed her to the table and sat down. Kai sat as well, and waited for Alexx to begin.

When she finally started talking, Alexx brought up a lot of concerns to Kai. "And you couldn't have said anything sooner?" Kai asked, upset. "I can't fix it until I know it's broken. And in reality, you're the one who walked out of my door, basically declaring our friendship was over! THEN you come over here and pretend like nothing was wrong!" Kai's thick Italian accent was coming out, making it hard for anyone to understand her.

"Well you hurt my feelings by not taking the pills!" Alexx countered. "I ONLY came over because Horatio asked me to think about it! I really didn't want to come! Then the kids asked if we were coming over, and I couldn't say no to them!"

Kai spoke only Italian, and wouldn't let up. Alexx called Horatio, so he could hear his wife having a tantrum.

When He answered the phone, he could hear Kai going off in Italian. "So you called my husband?!" Kai shouted at Alexx, when she saw Horatio's name and number on the screen. "Nope, not getting involved," Horatio said hanging up, which surprised Alexx.

Calleigh heard the screaming too before Horatio hung up. "What was that about?" she asked. "I bet Alexx upset her somehow.."

"I don't know," Horatio said. "I'm not getting involved. When she's screaming in Italian like that, there is no consoling her...She's going to be upset for a while, so tread lightly with her, and don't bring up Alexx's name."

Calleigh nodded and sighed. "Okay the reason I came out here is this," she said, showing Horatio what she found out about the new case. He leaned in to look.

Meanwhile back at home, Alexx looked at Kai, confused by what she was saying. 'I didn't know her accent could get thicker,' Alexx thought to herself. Frustrated, she held up her hands. "I'm going to leave now; I'll come back when you're calmer."

The look Kai gave Alexx was scary. If looks could kill, Alexx would've been dead on the floor from the glance alone. Kai went to the door and opened it, waiting for Alexx to leave; she was still fuming.

Alexx took the hint and left. Kai slammed the door shut behind her, and Alexx jumped. Once Alexx was gone, Kai looked at the clock and noticed it was almost time to go get the kids. She went and got ready to leave the house, trying to calm down as she got ready. Walking to the school, she decided, walking would be a good way for her to calm down, and relax after what had just happened. She heard Alexx's car leave and let her breath out.

She grabbed her coat and got her shoes on, she then grabbed the keys and headed for the school. Meanwhile, Alexx drove back to PD, to talk to Horatio about his wife being out of control.

The school bell was ringing for the end of the day when Kai walked up to the school and went in. Mrs. Garcia saw her and smiled. "Hello, Mrs. Caine," Mrs. Garcia said. "How are you today?"

"Hello Mrs. Garcia!" Kai greeted her cheerfully in return. "I'm very well, thank you, I've come for Isabella and Kalani."

"Yes," Mrs. Garcia said. "Of course. The twins and both teachers are in Mr. Suzuki's classroom; I think they are discussing a play or something."

"Wonderful!" Kai said. "I'll head over there now and talk to them. Have a great rest of your night!"

As Kai approached the room she heard Bella talking. "I think she'll be okay with it," Bella said.

"What am I going to be okay with?" Kai asked, walking into the room. "What's going on in here?"

"Mama!" Kani said happily. "We're talking about a play! Our teachers would like to do a play about CSIs!!"

"Oh really?" Kai asked with curiosity in her voice. "Bella, Kani who would you play?"

"I'd want to play dad" Kani said happily. "I could get a red wig!"

"I don't know," Bella said. "You're my mom...but..."

"You'd want to play Calleigh, maybe" Kai asked. "Bella, it's okay if you want to ask Calleigh about it, I'll right here helping the teachers"

"As we knew you would, " Bella said. "But I know the rule, you have to ask dad and Calleigh before you totally sign off on this."

"Correct!" she said. "Let's call them now!" Kai then got out her cell phone and called Horatio.

Back at the PD, Horatio's phone rang. "Excuse me," Horatio told Alexx, stepping away to answer the phone. "Hello beautiful... let me guess, you are at the school with the twins. Right?"

"Yep!" Kai said. "And, the teachers, Mr. Suzuki, and Miss Jones, would like to do a play about CSIs. I've said yes, but we would like you and Calleigh to weigh in first."

As if on cue, Calleigh came over. "What's going on?" she asked Horatio.

Horatio explained everything, and Calleigh gave the green light to go ahead with it. Horatio, gave the go ahead as well. "We'll see you at home soon"

"Alright, love you," Kai said, hanging up. "Great!" she said to the teachers. "Everybody is on board. Just tell me what you need me to do."

The three adults talked a bit more before Kai and the twins left. As they were leaving, they saw Mrs. Garcia. "Mrs. Caine!" the principal said. "What do you think of the twins' teachers' idea?"

"I love it!" Kai said. "I will be here to help with lines; I will help to make costumes, I'll help with costumes and auditions too."

"Auditions?" Kani asked. "But I thought because we're kids of CSIs, we'd get the main parts."

"That's not exactly fair, now is it?" Mrs. Garcia asked them. "If you just got the lead parts without trying out, the other kids might be mad at you. They might not take it well."

"That's a very good point," Kai said. "Kani, in order to be fair to everyone else, we're going to have to audition everyone. It's only fair. AND if you two do get the lead, then you will have earned it"

Kani looked bummed out. "Okay, mama," he said. "Okay, Mrs. Garcia..we understand. We want to be fair."

"Alright, guys," Kai told the twins. "Let's go home and we'll talk to dad and Calleigh about the play tonight."

The twins nodded. They said good bye to Mrs. Garcia and started to head out with Kai.

"Oh! Mrs. Caine!" Mrs. Garcia said, hurrying after them. "Wait!"

Kai turned around. "Yes, Mrs. Garcia?" she asked. "What can I do for you?"

"Soon we'll be doing another bake sale," Mrs. Garcia said. "I was wondering if we could count on you for more yummy Italian goodies!"

"Absolutely!" Kai said. "I would love to help! When is it?"

"Right before spring break," Mrs. Garcia said. "Is that okay?"

"Yes," Kai said. "Yes, that's fine! I'll make Italian goodies and regular goodies as well. Do you want pies and bars too?"

"Whatever you want to make!" Mrs. Garcia said. "It was a big hit last time, and we would like to do it again."

Kailani nodded. "Yes, I will help you again," she said. "Now let's go home you two," she told the twins. "I have lasagna waiting to be cooked!"

"Enjoy your dinner!" Mrs. Garcia called after them. "See you two tomorrow!"

"See you tomorrow!!" the twins said leaving with Kai. As they were walking home, Bella noticed Kai was quiet. "Are you okay, mama?" Bella asked.

"Yes, I'm alright," Kai said. "I really don't want to talk about it okay?"

"Okay," she said. "Well then, what kind of bread did you make today mama? White? Wheat? Multigrain?"

"You little turkey," Kai said laughing. "I made sourdough; it was Nonna's recipe."

"Nonna's recipe for bread?!" Kani asked. "I really miss Nonna, especially her cooking...yours is just as good mama, but..."

Kai smiled. "I know, baby," she said. "I miss Nonna too, but remember how much she loved us. My favorite food from Nonna is her chicken gnocchi soup. I will make it for you sometime. And her pasta e fagioli, too."

"That sounds good mama," Bella said. "Is there more that Nonna made?"

"Yes," Kai told her. "We'll go through Nonna's recipe books before bed and we'll mark the ones you want me to make"

Both Kani and Bella nodded and smiled as they got back to the house. Kai handed the keys to Bella to unlock the door. Bella did, and they went inside.

They took off their shoes. Then they got their homework out and started it at the table, while Kai got the oven ready to put the lasagna in.

After Kai put the food in the oven to cook, she sat down at the table. She got out paper and pen, and started to write about what it was like being a CSI. Bella and Kani looked over a couple of times, watching her write. They would wait and ask her for help when needed. After a half an hour went, Kai had them clear their things off the table and get ready for dinner. She knew Calleigh and Horatio would be home soon.

The twins went to put their homework in their rooms. They saw the letters on their beds, and sat reading them. Both letters said the same thing.

"Dear Kalani and Isabella;

I want to start off by saying Merry Christmas! Both of you look so much like me. Isabella has your mother's attitude, but Kalani, you are a mini me. I hope you both are well, and your mom too.

I regret everything I've ever done to your mom, to you guys and H. The day your mom told me she was pregnant, I was so scared and happy. I thought I'd be there with her raising the two of you, and that the four of us would've been a family for years to come. But, I got stupid. I did something stupid, and in the blink of an eye you both were taken from my life. Isabella was a daddy's girl..Kalani, maybe it was easier for you, since you didn't want anyone but your mom or grandma. When you guys left Florida it hurt, knowing I couldn't see you whenever I wanted.

But the day you came back..the first time I saw you guys again-oh you guys had gotten so big! And your Italian is spot on. I wish you had retained the Spanish I taught you. Isabella, Kalani..I'm sorry for everything I've done to you. I know I'm repeating myself, but I don't know how else to say it. Please take care of your mom, and I hope one day when I'm out of jail, maybe of your own free will you'll want to see me and get to know me again. I won't blame you if you don't.

I wrote your mama a letter too. Remember, just because Horatio is raising you guys, it doesn't mean I don't love you. I think of you everyday. Take care, Eric"


Something about the letter didn't sit right with Kalani. He went to the dining room and set the letter on the table. "Mama," he said. "I don't like this letter. I don't like its tone or something. Something about it feels fishy to me"

Isabella came out of her room with the same look on her face. She looked at Kalani. "You too, huh?" she asked.

"May I?" Kai asked picking up the letter. "Maybe I can answer some of your questions."

"Go ahead," the twins said in unison

She read it. "What's fishy about it?" she asked, puzzled. "The fact that I put it on your beds today? I'm sorry it wasn't in your stocking where it was to begin with. But there really is nothing wrong with what he wrote. He's apologizing to you both about not being in your lives. He's giving you a choice to see him later on, but only if you want to. When you're old enough, I won't stop you from getting to know him. Yes, you knew Spanish, no you don't anymore. My fault for that...I should've stayed here and I ran instead! It's my fault! Everything is my fault!!!"

Horatio and Calleigh walked in to find Kai ranting, proclaiming that everything was her fault. "What's going on?" Calleigh asked, taking her shoes off. "What's your fault?"

"Everything!" Kai said. "The abuse, the rape, Eric...EVERYTHING!!!" She ran crying from the kitchen to the bedroom, and slammed the door shut behind her.

Kani handed Horatio his letter from Eric; Horatio skimmed it. "Ah," he said, showing Calleigh the letter. "I knew this was going to happen. Bella, Kani, your mom got a letter from Eric as well. So, yours is probably tamer than hers is."

"I feel like it's fishy, dad. It doesn't feel genuine," Kani said. "Mom said it was fine, and then you walked in and witnessed the meltdown."

Calleigh took the food out of the oven. "I'm sure your mom doesn't want dinner to burn," she said. "So, why don't I serve you guys up some food? Let's let your dad go talk to your mom."

Kai locked herself in the bathroom, crying. She wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone, not even Horatio.

Horatio looked at the kids, then at Calleigh. "No," he said. "When she's like this it's best to let her cool off and then come to us when she's ready. Let's sit and eat. She won't want us to wait for her."

"Are you sure?" Calleigh asked. "It feels wrong..."

"Yes," Bella told her. "The last time mama was really angry like this was with Nonna in Alaska, and we ate without her. She came out a couple of hours later to eat...she'll be fine; I'm sure there must be something more than just the letters triggering her anger today"

Calleigh cut some bread and served everyone while Kai sat in the bathroom crying, feeling sorry for herself.

Horatio and Calleigh looked at each other, knowing what it was, but didn't want to bring it up. "That must be it," Horatio agreed. "Something else is bothering her. We'll save her some dinner. Let's get your homework finished, baths, then bed."

"So, what's going on at school?" Calleigh asked the twins trying to break the tension. "Anything fun and exciting?"

"Yes!" Bella said. "Our teachers, Miss Jones and Mr. Suzuki want to do a play about CSIs!"

"That's exciting," Horatio said as he took a bite of dinner. "What does mom think about it?"

"She's making us audition along with the rest of the kids," Kani said. "I thought because were kids of CSIs, we would get the leads. But Mrs. Garcia said if we got the leads without trying out, the other kids would be mad and jealous."

"Well," Calleigh said. "They're right. If they give you the leads because you are kids of CSIs, it's not going to be fair. You two know what your dad and I do, and what your mom did before she retired. Some things aren't easy to pronounce but we do our best, and we went to school to learn it. So, if the teachers give everyone a fair shot to try out...you never know! You two might be the best for the lead parts after all. Let me guess... we have to go to the school before work in the morning to talk to the teachers?"

"Would you?" Bella asked. "And I guess you're right. It would be selfish of us Kani. We need to let the other kids try too. We know how to dress already because we live with three CSIs. Even if mama is retired, it doesn't stop her from putting her job to the test with us," she pointed out. "I know we can be a bit spoiled sometimes, but remember mama knows everything, that's her super power. She knows when we're lying, and she knows when something isn't right with her family or friends. That's not just, her mom power, that's her CSI power too."

Calleigh and Horatio smiled listening to Bella's explanation. Horatio thought that sometimes Bella was too smart for her own good.

Once they were all finished eating Horatio cleared off the table and started the dishes. He made sure to set a plate aside for Kai, while Calleigh helped the kids with homework.

A little while later, Kai came out of the bedroom and warmed up her food. No one spoke to her, as they were afraid she would go off on them again.

Kai sat and ate as the kids finished up their homework. "Did you guys think about what I said, with the auditions for the play?" she asked them.

"We did," Kani said. "And we'll audition"

"Good job," Kai said. "The three of us will go in tomorrow to talk to the teachers. And, I'm sorry for my behavior today...something happened that I don't want to talk about right now, but it wasn't right for me to take it out on you."

The twins hugged her. "Mama," Bella said, "we understand. We helped dad and Calleigh understand too. You don't get that angry often; the very last time I can remember was with Nonna."

Kai hugged them back. "I love you both so much," she told them. "As much as I love Horatio and Calleigh. Now that your homework is done, go get ready for your baths. After that we'll look at Nonna's cookbook, and then bed."

The twins ran to their rooms to get ready, taking their books with them.

Once they were in their rooms Kai took Horatio and Calleigh's hands. "H, I'm so sorry Alexx called you today," she said softly. "That friendship is over. If I need medication from the hospital, please ask for another doctor. I don't want Alexx on anymore of my cases. And Calleigh, I don't want to lose you as a friend. If I do something you don't like, please, please tell me..I can't lose another friend."

Horatio nodded. "Alright," he said. "I'll make a note in my phone as a reminder."

"Absolutely!" Calleigh said. "I don't want our friendship to end either, Kai. I promise not to bring Alexx's name up; if I do just glare at me or something"

Kai laughed. "I can do that!" she said. "H, I'm sorry my accent was thicker earlier, you know how I can be when I'm that upset. I would like one day to go to Italy, all of us"

Calleigh laughed. "Kai, I would love to go with you," she said. "But you know damn well PD would fall apart without me and Horatio there! Now, if it was you, me, and the twins..then everything would be okay. The twins would have to translate for me. But if Horatio and I both left at the same time, PD wouldn't be standing when we came back."

"Oh!! I have an idea!" Kai exclaimed looking at both of them. "H, in the summer we'll take a week to go to Alaska, the four of us. Then, me, Calleigh, and the twins can go to Italy for a week. When Calleigh goes home, the kids and I can stay, and you can join us after Calleigh gets back to work. I want you in Italy too!"

"Let's talk about this later, okay?" Horatio suggested. "We'll all sit down to discuss it, and come up with a plan of action for the summer...wait, I think I have an idea." He wrote it down, just as Bella came out of her room.

"I'm ready for my bath," Bella told Kai. "Are we still going through Nonna's book?"

"Yes, we are," Kai said happily, quite proud of her idea. She had come up with it, and now Horatio was taking over. She watched him step out the back door to make a call.

The call was to Lokelani. He had an idea after hearing Kai talk about Italy.

Up in New York, Lani's phone rang. "Aloha, this is Lani," she said, answering. "Horatio, is everything okay with my sister?"

"Aloha," Horatio greeted her. "Yes, we had a slight hiccup today but she's in good health. There is a reason I'm calling. It's actually Kai's idea and I'm just running with it."

"Oh?" Lani asked. "Glad to hear Kai's in good health. So, what's up? Are you and the kids okay?"

"That's why I'm calling," Horatio explained. "Kai suggested going to Italy after we go to Alaska with the twins. But it will be her, the twins, and Calleigh going at first, then I'll join them when Calleigh comes home. But," he added. "I think Kai kinda wants a honeymoon, since we never had one...so I'm thinking maybe the kids can come back with Calleigh, and you could take them for a week? Spoil them, get them school clothes..whatever they need."

"I would love that!" Lani said. "I know I could take care of the twins for a week! Oh! Broadway plays, they can eat at the diner everyday! They'll be begging for their mom's cooking when you guys come back! Keep me posted please!"

"Will do," Horatio said. "I know she'll love a week in Italy with just the two of us. Thanks Lani."

"Anytime Horatio," Lani replied. "Anything for you and Kai!"

Horatio chuckled. "I'm not keeping this from her," Horatio said. "Last time I tried to keep something secret, she almost murdered me. I know she likes surprises but that one, she kinda still has nightmares about it." He paused. "Have you talked to your brother?"

"No," Lani said. "I went back and sent your stuff home, I told him I was done with his behavior towards Kai, and I'm not going back to Hawaii anytime soon. Take care of Kai, Horatio. Please. I can't lose anyone else."

"I will," he promised. "I will take good care of her." Then he hung up and went back inside, to find Calleigh and Bella talking about the play.

Kani was in the bath and Kai sat on the bed in her room, thinking. 'Maybe I overreacted with Alexx,' she thought to herself, sighing softly. She held Delko's unopened letter in her hand. 'But I can't bring myself to open this yet.' She put the letter away, just as Horatio came into the bedroom.

"You okay?" Horatio asked, closing the door behind him. "Is that Eric's letter?"

"Hmm?" Kai asked. "Oh...yeah, I'll be alright. And yes, it is. You know, I feel like I may have overreacted with Alexx today but she made me so angry..."

"I heard," Horatio said. "I knew better than to step in the middle of that one. So, I have possible good news for you."

"Oh?" Kai asked curiously. "Is this about summer break for the kids?"

"It is," Horatio said nodding. "So, I'll set it up to go from here to Alaska and back. I'll work for the week you four are in Italy. Then I'll ask Calleigh to bring the kids back here, and I'll have Lani come get the kids and take them to New York for a week. I'll fly out to meet you in Italy." Calleigh will have a week by herself with no kids, no us, like she did at Christmas. But I think she got jipped at Christmas, so this time she'll have two weeks. The first week when we're in Alaska, and the second one when we're in Italy and Lani comes to get the twins for a week."

Kai straddled Horatio and hugged him tight. "Thank you H, you're so amazing!" she said. "Sister will do a great job with them! There is so much to do in New York; they can eat Hawaiian food for a week and take in the sights, sounds, and shows! H, we'll go on a honeymoon...we've never had one. I had an idea, and you ran with it. There are a lot of decision I regret making, H. But having the twins isn't one of them, and neither is marrying you."

Horatio smiled and kissed her softly. "Yes," he said. "A honeymoon, just you and me. You'll translate for me?"

Kai laughed and nodded. The twins poked their heads in and Kai looked over. "Come in, you two," she said sitting on the bed next to Horatio. "We would like to talk to you both. Calleigh?"

Calleigh poked her head in. "What's up?" she asked. "Is everything okay?"

"It's fine" Kai said. "We have an idea for summer break."

"Oh?" Kani and Bella asked in unison. "What is it?"

"Well, you know how we're going to Alaska to visit Nonna?" Kai asked.

They nodded. "Yes, we're not moving back there are we?" Bella asked.

"No," Horatio said. "No, I'll go with you three to Alaska to visit Nonna's grave; we'll stay there a week. Then, we'll come back. And right away, without much turn around time, you three will leave again, to go to Italy with Calleigh. I'll go back to work while you're away. Then, if it's okay with Calleigh, she'll bring you back here while your Mom and I have a honeymoon in Italy. And while we're gone, Lokelani will take you to New York for a week and you'll hang out with her."

"Wow! Sure!" Calleigh said. "Italy, huh? You three are going to have to translate for me," she told Kai and the twins.

"Of course!" Kai said. "Though it may be hard to understand me; I'm sure my accent will get thicker. Okay, so that's what we wanted to talk to you about. Now let's go get Nonna's cookbook, and see what we can make tomorrow!"

The twins ran out of the room, excited, leaving the three adults in the bedroom. Kai got off the bed and hugged both Calleigh and Horatio. "I love you both so much" she said. "We'll talk about Alexx some more tomorrow"

The two CSIs nodded. Kai broke the hug and left the room to find her mom's cookbook. After she departed, Calleigh looked at Horatio. "I know what you're thinking" she told him.

"What would that be?" he asked. "Wait, let me guess. That she overreacted with Alexx today? Probably. That she has a sharp tongue that can hurt people's feelings? Yes, I know. I'm used to it."

"Yes, her sharp tongue." Calleigh said. "But yes. I think you're right she overreacted, but then so did Alexx. There was no need to have her feelings hurt over the pills. I'm sure Kai told her many times that she was an herbalist and had her own ways of treating things. I rarely see things from the store in the house in pill form."

"Isabella was a big herbalist too," Horatio said. "Isabella and Kani were both big herbalists. They taught her everything she knows. I know she has their remedies written down. Whenever Raymond and didn't feel good, I swore Isabella knew when we were sick, and always knew what to do; she loved us like we were her own."

"She seemed like a good lady" Calleigh agreed. "Very caring, genuine."

In the living room, Kai and the twins sat on the couch, looking through Isabella's cookbook. The twins put bookmarks on the pages with the recipes they wanted Kai to cook. "I should print these up on the computer," Kai said. And rebind them..or laminate them..."

The twins snuggled into her on the couch, and slowly started to fall asleep next to her. Kai rubbed their hair softly. She thought about what to make the next night for dinner and decided she would take some of the left overs to the school the next morning to share with the teachers and kids.

Later on, after the twins fell asleep Horatio put them to bed. Then he came back and pulled Kai to him. "Hey, you okay?" he asked. "You seem excited to do this play."

"Yes!" Kai said. "Yes, I am! I'm so excited! I'm alright; I'm just processing everything from the day. Oh, and before spring break the school is doing a bake sale; I'm sure there will be one more bake sale before summer break. I told Mrs. Garcia I would help out."

"You are so happy and excited when it comes to the school," Horatio told her. "What are you going to do when they are in high school and don't want you there with them?"

"I don't want to think about it," Kai said leaning into him. "We'll cross that bridge later. For now, I'm just happy we're going to Italy for a honeymoon, I think I've been twice with mama."

"This will be exciting for you then," Horatio said. "It's been a long time, and I know things have changed since you were there last."

"I went to Genoa last time," Kai said, holding his hand. "And either Pompeii or Sicily...I can't remember, we can look it up before we go to bed. So, where would you like us to go on our honeymoon? Do you want country, or city?"

"Let's go take a bath and we can discuss it in the tub" Horatio suggested. "Ready?"

"Ooh," Kai said, kissing him softly. "I like that idea; come on." She then got up and held out her hands for him.

Horatio took them and stood up. "Bath bombs?" he asked. "Something to make the bath smell good?"

"I would really like that," Kai said. "I think I may have picked up some pina colada bath salts and bombs. Unless you want flowers? Sorry, I didn't think about scents for men..."

Horatio laughed. "It's fine," he said, kissing her forehead. "If we have flowers, that will be fine. I will be happy with whatever you want."

Kai smiled and hugged him. "I love you," Kai said softly. "You're amazing. And for the honeymoon, I'm thinking maybe Tuscany; I've heard it's away from the crowds. Or we can go to Florence."

They walked into the bathroom and closed the door behind them. Kai started the water, then put some bath salts that smelled like honeysuckle in the tub. As the water ran, they shed their clothes. Horatio got in first, and helped Kai into the tub. She sat back and relaxed against him. Horatio gave her his opinion about Tuscany.

Settling into the hot water, Horatio gave Kai his opinion about Tuscany. "That sounds nice," he said. "But I'm leaving it up to you- Tuscany, Genoa, or even Sicily. I don't care as long as I'm with you; anything to see you light up. They way you lit right up when the teachers mentioned the play and what it was about. I bet your mind started to race, didn't it?"

"Guilty," Kai said. "My mind went into over-drive. I'll have to take measurements for the kids, in case their parents don't have the right kind of clothes for them already. I know our kids have the right clothes. And Kani said if he gets the lead, he wants to get a wig, so it will go with the lead. He's proud to be Horatio Caine's son."

"Is he now?" Horatio asked smiling. "I'm proud to call him my son too. They are both good kids."

"But..?" Kai asked, waiting for the other shoe to drop. Her day hadn't been that great, and she was trying hard to make it better.

"No buts," Horatio said. "They are good kids; you should be proud of them. They rarely fight with each other or with you. They know your moods and how to handle them. They have a full time dad, and Calleigh too."

"They are going to be great adults." he continued. "You're teaching- we're teaching them well. They're smart kids; they can be anything they want. Isabella and Kalani are going to remember everyday lessons you taught them for the rest of their lives. You are their hero Kai. When they look at you, they are so full of pride. They do whatever they can to make sure you are loved, honored, and respected. You learned a lot from your parents, and now you're passing that wisdom and knowledge on to them. Your parents would be proud. You should be proud."

'How does H do that?' Kai asked herself. 'How does he always know what to say and when to say it?' Kai then looked up at him. "Your super power must be knowing when to take my doubts away. I know when I was growing up, between my parents and you...you three would always say I'd be a great mom. And there are days I swear I'm letting them down. I know I have to rely on you, H; I just feel ever since mom and dad divorced my life has been a shit show. From the first day we met, I knew I wanted you and only you as my husband. Now I have you. And I'm so very happy, even if I'm not happy about the bad things I went through to get you. When I got kidnapped, and was pregnant with the twins, I never worried, because I knew you would find me..."

Horatio listened, but didn't interrupt her. He remembered that day well; he had had a feeling, but couldn't do anything about it until Eric said something. He was still slightly mad at himself for not asking Kai to marry him first. He would've loved to have had two gingered kids running around. Would they have been able to speak Hawaiian along with English and Italian? Would they have learned Spanish too? Would they look like him, or be a beauty like their mother? He wondered: If he had been there from the beginning, would Kai and the kids have had an easier time with Nonna's death? Could he have eased their struggle? Then again, on the other hand--maybe handling it on their own, without a father in the picture, had made them all stronger.

One thing he knew for sure was their kids still would've never known Kai's dad Kalani. Horatio remembered the time he and Kalani had talked. Horatio knew right then and there that he wanted to be a good father to whatever kids he might one day have. And adopting Kailani's kids had been the best move he ever made. He loved them just like his own kids. He still ran a lot of things past Kai, as he knew a partner should do. He had learned that from her parents, too.

And he remembered the day that Kalani left New York to go back to Hawaii after the divorce. He had watched her world just break down. He hadn't known how to help her then, except to be there for her. From the first day they met, he had sworn to protect her in everyway he could. Horatio loved Kai with all his heart and soul.

"I will always find you," Horatio said. "That's a promise I intend to keep."

Kai smiled. "I promise to try not get myself into trouble," she said. "I hate always being in trouble, first with that ex I refuse to name, second and a few other times with Eric, then with daddy's best friend..."

"I don't want to put an officer on you," Horatio said. "So you get places safely. I want to know that you made it there on your own, safe and sound. I worry about you Kai, all the time..."

"I don't want that either.." Kai said softly. "I don't want you to worry about me all the time; I know I worry about you, but it's the result of our job as CSIs; you just never know what might happen from one day to the next. But...what if instead of thinking badly, we're going to think positively! We're going to New York soon to see Lani, then we're going to Alaska, and we're going to Italy..we're going to have a honeymoon, H, a real honeymoon!!"

"Yes," Horatio said. "A real honeymoon. I would do anything for you."

"We should get out now," Kai said, getting up and stepped out of the tub. "I just have a feeling" Kai quickly dried off and dressed, before going to going Kani's room.

Meanwhile, in another bedroom Kani was laying on his side. His stomach wasn't feeling good. 'Why now?' Kani thought to himself. "Mama..."

"I'm here," Kai told him, giving him a bucket. "Don't worry, Kani; mama will be here all night if you need me"

He nodded as he threw up in the bucket. "I don't feel so good," he said. "Don't go, mama"

"I'm right here, baby," Kai said softly. "Mama's right here." She sang him a song that her dad had sung to her whenever she was sick, to help her feel better.

Horatio got out, dried off and got dressed, then went to Kani's room. "What can I do to help?" he asked Kai.

"Some water, please," Kai told him. Kani's not going to school tomorrow, H. And I have a feeling that neither is Bella; she'll be in soon."

"Would you like Calleigh and I to go talk to the teachers?" Horatio asked as he left, leaving the door open while he went to get water for the twins and Kai. "I can call them out, too."

As Horatio came back in, Kai was in the bedroom. Both twins were in her lap, and each had their own bucket. Kai sang them a Hawaiian lullaby. While she sang, the twins started to fall asleep. Kai sat against the wall, so could hold both of them as they slept.

When they were asleep in her arms, she looked up at Horatio. "Yes, please," she said. "I would like that very much. Go to bed H, you need your sleep. I'll be alright...I'll make chicken soup tomorrow for them, mama's recipe."

H nodded, and took her hand squeezing it. "I love you," Horatio said. "You are an amazing mom."

Kai blushed and tilted her head back, she knew there was going to be little to no sleep for her tonight. Horatio then went to their room and laid down on the bed. He tried to sleep, but couldn't. Horatio was used to Kai being right next to him when he went to sleep. It had taken time for him to get used to sleeping next to her, but now he couldn't sleep without her next to him. Horatio laid awake all night. He knew he would be very tired the next day. He was hoping Kai would be in bed with him tomorrow night; he loved her cuddles. Holding her close to him and breathing in her scent was intoxicating to him.

As Kai rested in Kani's room, holding the twins close, she thought back to when she had been sick as a child, and her dad had been there with her. His hugs were the best medicine for her every time; the songs he sang to her whenever she was sick were the same ones she sang to her kids now. 'Daddy, I wish you were here,' Kai thought to herself. 'Look at me doing what you did for me. I'll make them soup tomorrow, just like mama did for me...with rice, like you always put in there instead of noodles. I love you and miss you so much, daddy.' She closed her eyes, and slept off and on through the night.

By the next morning the twins were on Kani's bed curled into each other and Kai was on the floor asleep with her arm curled under her head. Horatio came in and checked on them, and felt the twins foreheads. They were warm, but not hot; he then knelt down to Kai and felt her head too. She felt cool to him, and he gently shook her. "Kai, baby," he said softly. "Time to get some coffee in you."

Kai opened her eyes and took his hands to stand up. Her body quickly let her know she was in pain everywhere from being on the floor all night, and she fell into Horatio. H put his arm around her and took her to the couch and laid her down.

"There are a few things of lasagna and bread," Kai said. "Three of them, one for Mrs. Garcia and the others for the teachers"

"Of course," Horatio said. "Then I'll come back and I'll take care of you and the twins. You don't look like you feel well."

"I'm alright, H," Kai said trying to sit up and failing. "I have to make the chicken and rice soup for the twins."

"No, you don't," he told her pushing her back on the couch gently. "I'll stop at the store and pick some up. I know you would rather make your own, but..today will be canned soup from the store. You need to rest."

Kai was to tired to argue. She hadn't been sick in a long time, and neither had the twins. "Thank you, H," she said. "You should go to work today"

Calleigh had come out of her room to see Horatio covering up Kai on the couch. "Hey," Calleigh said softly. "What's wrong?"

"The twins got sick last night," Horatio said. "Kai, being the devoted mother she is stayed with them and slept on the floor. Now, she just needs to rest before returning to mom duties. I'm going to stay home and take care of them today; you go ahead in to work."

"With all due respect, Horatio," Calleigh said. "I will stay home and make the soup, you go to work. We'll go to the school, and I'll pick up chicken, rice and veggies and make Kai the soup. I will help her with the twins. I've seen your cooking skills- it's best for you to go to work after we go to the school, and let me handle things here."

Horatio was not about to argue with Calleigh. She was just as scary as Kai. "Yes ma'am," he said. "Let's go to the school, and then you can do what you need to do and I'll go to work. Call me if anything changes with any of them."

"Of course!" Calleigh said. "Why would I not call you? I know you want to be here for her, but- I can take care of her. You bring her home something... a teddy bear, flowers- whatever. But for now, we must go." She then grabbed her keys and got her shoes on, and walked out of the door before Horatio.

Horatio followed Calleigh out, and drove to the school. He couldn't help but worry about Kai and the kids when he wasn't around them. Horatio had always worried about Kai, especially when her parents divorced and then again when her dad died. He had never seen her so broken, so lost.

Once at the school, Horatio went to the office and excused the twins for the entire day and the entire next day. Mrs. Garcia came out of her office. "Lieutenant Caine," she said. "What brings you by? Is everything alright?"

"Good morning, Mrs. Garcia," Horatio said. "First, here is some homemade lasagna and bread for you, courtesy of Mrs. Caine. Second, the twins are sick, and their mom asked me and Officer Duquesne here to come and talk to the teachers about the play."

Mrs. Garcia took the food. "This smells heavenly!" she exclaimed excitedly about the food. "Sorry to hear the twins are out sick. I hope Mrs. Caine is feeling well."

"She is alright," Horatio said. "Mrs. Caine slept on the floor with them last night and is in a bit of pain, so she's resting on the couch at home." Finishing up with Mrs. Garcia, he and Calleigh went to meet up with the teachers and pass off Kai's food to them. The teachers thanked him, and talked to both the CSIs.

Meanwhile back at home, Kai was trying to sit up but her body was not having it. "Ow.." Kai said. "Ow ow ow...I'm not young anymore, I can't just sleep on the floor." She got up off the couch slowly and made her way to the bathroom. She vaguely remembered a conversation with Horatio about the twins and food. When she came out of the bathroom she was feeling less stiff, and made something to drink for the twins and herself. Then she started on the soup. She was glad she pulled the chicken out the day before and started the stock for broth.

While the stock simmered, Kai woke the kids up. She gave them something to drink and some toast with butter. "Small bites," she told them softly. "Small sips. Mama's going to make some broth for you guys, maybe chicken and rice soup"

"The chicken..." Kani said taking a sip of the mint tea. "I don't feel good, mama."

"I know, babies," Kai said softly. "I know, it's okay..I'm here. I'll call dad okay? You two rest"

Kani and Isabella nodded and laid back down, then fell back to sleep. Kai left the room and called Horatio.

"Excuse me," Horatio said back at the school, and stepped away to answer his phone. "Good morning, beautiful. How are you feeling?"

"Good morning handsome," Kai said. "Sore like a horse ran me over, I'm too old to sleep on the floor, H!"

Horatio chuckled. "You're still beautiful and you're not old," he told her lovingly. "What can I do for you, Captain?"

Kai smirked. She loved it when he called her captain. "Well then, Lieutenant," Kai said. "I just wanted to call and tell you good morning. I'm feeling pretty sore, so I don't need a babysitter today. You and Calleigh can go to work. I have everything I need here for chicken soup already."

"Alright, Kai," Horatio said chuckling again. "I will let Calleigh know we can go to work, now that we have your approval."

Kai laughed. "Are you giving your captain a hard time?" she joked, while arching her eyebrow. "If you are, we'll have to discuss your actions later, lieutenant."

"No ma'am," Horatio said. "I would never question my captain. I'll see you later; I love you."

"Love you too, H," Kai said smiling over the phone. "Tell Calleigh, your captain says to have a good day" she added before hanging up.

He hung up and went back over to Calleigh to wrap up talking about the play. "If you'll excuse us," Horatio told the teachers. "We must be off to work. Ms. Duquesne"

"Yes sir," Calleigh said, chuckling. "Thank you for talking to us about the play," she told the teachers. "We'll come to help in anyway we can. H, do I need to go to the store?"

"No," Horatio told her as they departed. "Kai called to say she's okay, and she already has everything she needs at home to make the chicken and rice soup."

"Great!" Calleigh said. "Let's go. Before Frank pisses everyone off."

They left the school and headed to work, as the teachers started their day with homemade lunch from Kai.

Back at home, the twins were still sleeping. Kai pulled the blanket out and worked on it for a bit while the broth came together. Her body still hurt from sleeping on the floor, and she had taken medicine for it. She looked down at the blanket and smiled. 'H is right,' she told herself. 'I shouldn't hide what I love to do, but I had to hide it from my first...I never did this while I with Eric. I guess hiding it is a habit I can't break just yet.'

Once at work, Horatio texted Kai. He let her know he had made it in safely, and that he would probably make it a short day. Kai saw the text and smiled, as she got up to check on the broth. When it was where she wanted it, she continued adding ingredients.

Kani was up and slowly moving about; his stomach felt better because of the rest and the light foods his mom had given him. He came to the kitchen. "Mama," he whined a bit. The only time he really whined was when he was sick, and that wasn't often.

Kai looked over and went to him. "How are you feeling, baby?" Kai asked, feeling his forehead. The fever had gone down a bit. "Let's get you more medicine to break your fever."

He nodded. "My body hurts," he said to Kai. "I don't like being sick.."

"I know," she said getting him some medicine. "I'll change your sheets and Bella's too, so you'll have fresh sheets. Oh my sweet boy...mama hates when you two are sick...I bet dad called you out for tomorrow, too."

She went and got the blankets and pillows, so they could make a little area on the floor for the kids to lay by her as they watched TV. By this point, Bella was coming out of the bedroom, looking like Kani. "Go to the living room and sit on the edge of the couch," Kai told Bella softly. "I will make you guys a make shift bed out there, so you can both lay by me. I can sit on the couch right next to you, and then I won't hurt again like I do now."

Bella nodded and went to sit with Kani, as Kai gathered everything up and took it to the living room. She made a spot for the twins by the couch with their favorite stuffed animals. Once the tv was on for them, Kai continued her chores. She started by putting the sheets and blankets in the washer, then washed her hands and went back to the soup.

As she was cooking, there was a message from Alexx. "Kai, I'm sorry," was all it said.

Kai ignored the phone and put the lid on the soup. She turned it to low and went to switch out the laundry, then went to put fresh sheets on both of the kids' beds. When that was done, she cleaned out the buckets and brought them back out to the kids. She then texted Horatio. "Can you please," Kai texted. "Pick up some ginger ale and crackers for the twins. A two liter should be okay for them to share. Oh and some ginger too please."

Horatio looked at the phone and chuckled. "Calleigh," he said, going over to her. "I'm going to leave early. Kai has me on grocery duty. The list started off with only two things, but you know Kai."

Calleigh chuckled. "Yes," she said. "I know; I'll pick something up for myself later on so it doesn't upset the twins' stomachs. I bet you Kai's in cleaning mode now."

"I have no doubt," Horatio said, chuckling. "You know she likes a clean house, and knowing her, she'll open the windows a bit to help air out the house. Call me, if you really need me."

Ryan was passing by, and saw Horatio heading out. "Hey H!" he called. "I need your help talking to a certain judge."

"Mr. Wolfe," Horatio said in a worn voice. "Does it have to be right now? I have sick kids at home and I'm on grocery duty for my wife. Can it wait until tomorrow?"

"No," Ryan said. "I need this warrant today, and he's refusing to give it to me."

Horatio sighed deeply, a bit annoyed. "Alright," he said. "Let's go"

The two men left to get the warrant for Ryan, which in Horatio's opinion could have easily been obtained from another judge, without his involvement. He was tired from not sleeping all night, unable to doze off without his wife by his side, and he was cranky because he didn't like this judge. This judge was an ass to everyone.

Once the warrant was secured, Horatio dropped Ryan back off at PD, then headed to the store. He looked at his phone and noticed the list had got bigger; he chuckled while shaking his head. In the store, he got everything that was on Kai's list and then some.

Back at home, when Kai was done cleaning, she checked on the twins and saw they were asleep. She closed the windows, and moved on to the kitchen to stir the soup.

Horatio arrived home and put the groceries on the porch to take in. He started to feel hot and cold himself, and frowned. He couldn't afford to be sick right now.

Kai opened the door to see Horatio bringing the groceries up; she brought them in to put away. "H," she called. "Come inside; I'll get the rest of them in a minute. You look pale."

H was about to tell Kai he was fine as he came up the steps, but everything turned upside down for a second. Kai helped him inside, then taking off his shoes and jacket, she got him to bed. She quickly took his clothes off. leaving only his undergarments. "Rest now," she told him. "I'll come back to check on you soon." Horatio nodded and fell asleep.

Kai took care of the groceries that were in the house already, and went to get the rest of the stuff. In the front seat of the car there were some flowers for her, and she smiled. She took it all in and put the flowers in a vase. With everything inside and put away, Kai woke up the twins and gave them some ginger ale and soup. She then went to wake Horatio and gave him some soup too.

A few hours later Calleigh came home from her day and noticed the house was pretty quiet. She checked the living room and found Kai crocheting a blanket. "Hey, Kai," Calleigh said softly sitting next to her. "How's it going?"

Kai looked over and smiled. "It's alright," Kai said. "Horatio came home sweating and swaying. He won't be going to work in the morning. The twins are feeling a little better with the ginger ale and soup."

Calleigh nodded. "Let me guess," she said. "You went into deep clean mode?"

Kai laughed. "Damn," she said, laughing more. "You know me so well!! But yes, I've cleaned the twins' sheets, deep cleaned the house. Washed your sheets, and my sheets too. I apologize for going in your room without permission, but I just wanted to get clean sheets on your bed."

"It's alright." Calleigh said, reassuring her friend. "I know it was just the sheets, my clothes I usually wash myself. I was honestly going to do the bedding this weekend, but you beat me to it."

"Are you hungry?" Kai asked. "I made chicken and rice soup, like my dad made for me. It's not quite like his but..it's close to it."

"No, thank you," Calleigh said. "I ate before I came home. I wanted to check on you and see how you were doing"

Kai showed Calleigh her phone and the text from Alexx. "I haven't answered back," she said to her. "I'm scared to."

The two friends talked for a while before Calleigh headed to bed. Kai got up and went to check on Horatio, who was still asleep. She checked his breathing which was regular for sleeping, and sighed softly. Kai took Eric's letter out of the drawer and went to the living room with it. She sat on the sofa and stared at it. She couldn't bring herself to open it, and she couldn't bring herself to answer back to Alexx either. Kai sat and let the tears fall softly. She was up all night again with Horatio and the twins, making sure they were all okay.

The next morning found Horatio out in the living room with Kai curled into him on the couch. He was feeling better after the much needed sleep, but stayed home just to be on the safe side. The twins were feeling much better. Kai was asleep on Horatio, her head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat.

When he had come out to the living room earlier that morning, he had found her sitting in the dark with something in her hand. His heart went to his throat as he took what he thought was a knife from her hand, but it was only Eric's letter. Horatio put the letter and Kai's phone on the table beside the couch. He sat and pulled her to him, holding her with her head on his chest all night long.

Kai slowly opened her eyes and looked around; she felt Horatio's strong arms around her. She looked up to see him dozing, and smiled before she kissed his chin. "Good morning" she said softly, moving from his arms and stretching. She looked around for the twins and found them in their rooms, entertaining themselves with the microscope. They wanted to save the CSI kits for the play.

Horatio opened his eyes and smiled, looking over to see Kai coming back to join him. "Good morning," he said. "Did you sleep well?"

"With you by my side," Kai said. "I always sleep well. And... I think you and I should talk about this letter a little later.."

"I agree," Horatio said. "But if you don't want to read the letter, then throw it away and quit torturing yourself. I don't like seeing you down like this."

Kai looked up at him; she got up and threw the letter away. "There," Kai said. "It's done, I'm not going to stress over Eric anymore. And I'm not quite ready to block Alexx yet."

Horatio nodded and stood up with her, pulling her into a hug. "Captain," he said. "Might I have some coffee?"

She laughed. "Yes, Lieutenant," she said making him some coffee. "Bella, Kani!" she called.

The twins came out of their rooms. "Yes?" Bella asked politely.

"Scrambled eggs, toast and bacon for breakfast?" Kai asked them. "Or do you want oatmeal with fruit?"

"Ooh the first one" Kani said. "It sounds really good. Mama, can we watch movies today? The four of us? And talk about Italy?"

Kai pulled her hair back and handed Horatio his coffee. "What do you think, H,?" she asked him as she got the pans out. "I love the idea! We're going to take SO many pictures! I have an idea! If you guys are up for it, we can make scrapbooks for each of you! We'll start with Alaska because I have pictures, then here, and Hawaii, and we'll add New York, Italy and anywhere else we go. That way you when you grow up and have your own kids, you can show them where you have been!"

Bella's eyes shone. "Can we do more than one?" Bella asked. "One with us being babies? And then as we grew, and all the good things that happened to us? With Nonna, and meeting Lokelani, Calleigh and everyone else? Oh, and you and dad getting married!"

Horatio listened to Kai and the twins talk and smiled. He loved how Bella's eyes lit up and shone like her mother's when she was excited. Both the kids took after their mother more than they did Eric. Both of them were kind, caring, and compassionate, always thinking of others, and never forgetting who they are. Kai spoiled them with love and a firm hand, but not so firm that they were scared of her. She was letting them grow into themselves, and make their own mistakes and guiding them along on their paths. Horatio smiled, proud to call them his kids.

"What do you think H?" Kai asked, warming up the pan for the bacon. "Do you think scrapbooks are a good idea?"

"Yes," Horatio said sipping his coffee. "Yes, I think it's a great idea. We'll go after breakfast, and get everything we need."

Kai finished up breakfast and served everyone. Even though Calleigh wasn't there, Kai set a place for her at the table out of habit.

Everyone got up to get dressed and got ready to go. Once they were done, they drove over to the local craft store to pick up everything they would need. Horatio knew this would keep the girls busy.

As they were shopping they ran into Alexx. "Kai!" Alexx called to her happily. "Hey Horatio, kids!"

The kids hugged Alexx. "Hey, Alexx" Bella said. "We're out of school until Monday, we weren't feeling good yesterday. I think it was a bug that lasted a day."

Kai put on a smile. "Hey Alexx," she said. "Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. As Bella said, they weren't feeling well- and you know, you gotta take care of the kids first."

Alexx nodded knowing all too well with her two kids. "So, what brings you guys here?" she asked. "Family project? School project?"

"Family project!" Kani said. "It's going to be fun! Guess what!"

"What?" Alexx asked just as excited at Kani was. "Does it have to do with school?"

"Yes!" Kani and Bella said in unison. "Mr. Suzuki, and Miss Jones are combining their classes to do a play about CSIs!!" Bella said.

Kai was starting to feel uncomfortable. "I'm going to go get some more stuff," she said taking the cart from Horatio. "You talk amongst yourselves and I'll be back." She left before anyone could say anything or stop her, heading for the fabric area to get more yarn.

"Mmm, I see," Alexx said softly more to Horatio than the twins. "Well! I can't wait to see it!"

"You'll come?" Kani asked. "You'll be there to watch us?"

"Of course I will!" Alexx said. "I'll be there recording you guys and sending you a copy!"

Horatio smiled and took the kids' hands. "Alexx," he said. "It was nice to see you again. We're going to go find Kai and get going. Our love to the family"

Alexx nodded and made her way up to the checkout as Horatio and the twins went to find Kai. She was still in the yarn section, staring at the yarn.

The twins looked up. First Horatio and then Kani took her hands. "Mama," Kani said softly. "Are you okay?"

Kai jumped, startled, and looked down. "Kani," she said. "You scared me...I'm alright"

"More yarn?" Horatio asked. "For your projects? Or is this for this project or both?"

"A couple of more skeins," Kai said, grabbing a few. "Can we go now?"

Horatio nodded and led them to the checkout to find Alexx already gone from the store. He knew Kai would be relieved that they hadn't run into her again.

Alexx sat in her car, confused and hurt by what happened in the store. 'Why did she do that?' she asked herself. 'Did I contact her too soon? Has she completely written off our friendship? Is she seeing something I'm not?'

Back inside the store- "Mama!" Kani said happily. "I asked Alexx to our play!"

Kai flinched at Alexx's name being spoken, and looked at her son. "If she comes, I won't be there," Kai said to him. "I'm sorry Kani, but you should've asked me first before you invited her."

Kani and Isabella looked really confused. They knew they couldn't just uninvite Alexx; that was rude, Kai had taught them that. The twins had only really seen her flinch one other time, and that was when she heard Eric's name. Neither knew how to get out of what they had told Alexx.

Once Horatio paid for everything, the family made their wait back to the car. All of them were silent as they all got in.

Alexx was watching them and noticed that no one was saying anything. She knew Kai usually helped Horatio put bags in the car but today she didn't. Alexx then got out of the car. "Horatio," she called out.

H looked up and spotted Alexx. He went over to her, leaving Kai and the twins in the car for a moment so they could talk. As they talked, Kai didn't look up or say anything. She was impatiently waiting to go home. A little distance away, Horatio spent a moment talking with Alexx. He told her he wasn't sure when the play was, which was true, and that he would keep her updated when he heard more. He then said good-bye and walked to the car, got in and drove home.

By the time they all got home, Calleigh was there. When they walked in, they found her in the kitchen cooking.

Kai had given Kani the keys to unlock the door. Kani had unlocked the door and gone in first, with Horatio being the last. "Woah, Calleigh," Kani said, walking into the kitchen. "What are you making?"

"Jambalaya," Calleigh told him. "It gives your mom a break from cooking. It's supposed to get chilly tonight, so...I thought I would bring some of my comfort food in for dinner."

"Thank you," Kai told Calleigh. "That means a lot to me. "Come on babies," she told the twins. "Let's go into the living room and get started."

The twins nodded and followed her into the living room where they spread everything out. Kai went and got all the pictures they needed.

Calleigh dropped her voice and looked up at Horatio. "What happened?" she asked quietly. "I haven't seen her this pissed since Christmas"

"Alexx happened," Horatio told her watching Kai getting into the project with the twins. "We ran into Alexx at the craft store. Kai just walked away. Then Kani invited Alexx to the play. He told his mom, and she flinched. Just about as bad as when we mentioned Eric's name, during the first few weeks after the kidnapping. Her world is being torn down, one by one, and she is feeling powerless to stop it..."

"Was Alexx confrontational with Kai?" Calleigh asked as she continued to cook. "Or was she truly happy to see Kai? Was Kai happy to see her?"

"Alexx was happy to see Kai," He recalled, turning back to Calleigh. "Kai, on the other hand, recoiled like she had just been slapped. When Kani told Kai that he invited Alexx to the play...I've never heard her voice sound so cold. She told him if Alexx was there, she wouldn't go."

The two CSIs talked. Calleigh finished up adding the ingredients to the pot, then they went to the living room. Kai looked up and smiled at them.

The twins worked on their scrapbook while Kai worked on her own scrapbook. She hadn't made much progress; the pictures of her parents had stopped her from moving on with it.

Horatio went to her and moved everything, then picked her up and sat on the couch with her. Kai curled into him and stayed like that.

The twins cleaned up everything and set it to the side. For once, they didn't know how to help their mom. They felt horrible for asking Alexx to the play, and they knew that Kai's threat was serious. If Alexx showed up, Kai wouldn't be there, despite the fact that she helped get the kids and the play ready.

Calleigh went back to the kitchen to stir the jambalaya and to text Alexx. "Hey Alexx," she said. "What happened today? Horatio said they ran into you at the craft store."

Alexx went into details about what happened at the craft store, and with the twins. They talked a few more minutes, before Calleigh hung up and went back to the living room. "Food's almost done," Calleigh said. "About another twenty minutes. Is Kai okay?"

"Kai fell asleep," Horatio told Calleigh, still holding Kai. "Bella, Kani, please go get washed up for dinner," he said to the kids. "And I'll put your mom to bed"

Kani and Bella nodded, and went into the bathroom to wash up for dinner. Then they returned to the kitchen and helped Calleigh set the table. Horatio took Kai and laid her down in their bed, where he figured she'd be more comfortable. He covered her and placed a kiss on her cheek before leaving the room to wash up.

It wasn't normal for the twins to be as quiet as they were being. Calleigh asked what was wrong.

"It was my fault," Kani said softly. "I messed up. I opened my mouth and told Alexx about the play...I didn't know her and mama were having problems. I should've asked mama before asking. And now I can't uninvite her, that's rude."

"Dad, Calleigh," Bella said quietly. "Is Mama's friendship with Alexx over? Does this have to do with us coming back from Hawaii?"

Horatio listened to what they were asking. "Bella, Kani," he said. "At Christmas what did you guys notice, with your mom and Alexx? Was it weird between them?"

They thought back. "I was in the kitchen with Mama and Calleigh," Kani remembered. "Calleigh asked Alexx to cook with us..I saw Mama's eyes light up. And then Alexx said no, and it was like someone let the air out of a balloon. It was like when Nonna died, the hurt that went across Mama's face."

"I noticed too," Bella started. "And I remember Alexx didn't bring mama's name up at all, or go talk to her. Eating without mama was a little awkward but I didn't want to be rude and get up to go eat with her in the kitchen. I don't know how to help mama with this."

"I think I do," Horatio told them. "Alexx feels that your mom doesn't do anything to prove her friendship to people, that she takes advantage of them. But really, your mom, she does things for people so subtly that sometimes they don't see it...and then people think, your mom is taking advantage of them."

"That's right," Calleigh said. "I didn't know you guys were in Alaska, as Horatio had to keep it a secret while Eric was around. When Eric was out, Horatio told me you guys were gone. I remember him coming in with a bag full of stuff for me from Alaska, and a letter from your mom. She told me how much my friendship meant to her, and asked if I could keep it a secret from Eric. It was important to make sure Eric didn't know, so, he couldn't come get you guys. Your mom has proven to me, that she a great person to have around. I've even picked up some Italian because of her, and grocery shopping hasn't been the same since!"

The twins nodded at what Calleigh said about their mom. It was too bad Alexx didn’t understand, and that the friendship had ended. But Calleigh understood, and Horatio did too, and maybe that was enough.

Monday, the twins returned to school. Kai was at home making up a sign-up sheet for the fourth grade classes, when a thought crossed her mind. It was something Horatio had made mention of not too long ago. 'What will I do when the twins get to the point where they don't want me at their school anymore?' she asked herself. 'What do I do then? Do I go back to work as a cook? Management? Start a new restaurant?'

As she was daydreaming, the phone went off. Kai picked it up and saw that Horatio was calling. "Captain Brown speaking," she answered smirking. "What can I do for you, Lieutenant?"

Horatio laughed. "Hello Captain," he said. "Do you have dinner plans tonight?"

"I have some soup in the crockpot," Kai said. "Why, what do you have in mind?"

"Well," Horatio said. "I was thinking you and I could go out on a date"

"A date," Kai said. "Maybe this weekend. Oh, and I want to talk to you about something when you get home."

"Oh?" Horatio asked. "What's on your mind?"

Kai took a deep breath. "What do you think about me going back to work?" she asked. "Restaurant, or maybe starting a business..."

"Hmm," Horatio said. "Let me think about it, and we'll discuss it when I get home. You certainly don't have to go back to work, but I think you're starting to get bored."

"Yeah," Kai agreed. "I think you're right. I love doing stuff for the kids and the school, but...I need more, H"

While Horatio was on the phone, Walter came up to him and waited.

"Kai," Horatio said. "I have to go, honey. Walter is here and he needs to talk to me. We'll talk more about this when I get home."

"Alright," Kai said. "Please tell Walter I said hi and ask him if he needs more pasta."

Horatio asked Walter about the pasta and he said yes. Walter loved Kai's pasta, and was almost out of what he had been given for Christmas. Horatio and Kai talked a moment more before they both hung up.

Kai looked at the time and went to get ready to get the kids. While at school, she was going to put up the sign-up sheets for the play, and on Wednesday they would start the auditions. The teachers had the permission slips for the play ready to go, and Kai would sign off on them when she got to the school.

When Kai was ready, she walked up to the school. Before the bell rang to dismiss the kids for the day, she found Mrs. Garcia and talked to her. Mrs. Garcia told her where she could hang the sign-up sheets. Kai headed out to do that before going to the classroom.

Meanwhile, back at PD, everyone was getting ready to go to Delko's trial. Horatio hoped that it wouldn't take too long, he wanted to get home to his family.

The lawyers started their opening statements, and gave their own reasons as to why Eric Delko was guilty or not guilty. Horatio and his team listened to both sides, although they already knew Eric was guilty.

Back at the school, the kids were dismissed. Right away Kani and Bella found the sign-up sheets and signed up; a few other kids did as well. Kai signed the permission slips or each child that had signed up, and sent the slips home with the kids and their parents. While she was there, she talked with the teachers about the auditions and the costumes. She also told them this would probably be her only year working with the school, as she was thinking of going back to work.

Kani and Bella looked over at her. "Really?" they asked in unison.

"Does dad know?" Bella asked.

"Yes," Kai said. "We'll talk more about it later when he gets home. I'm not sure when he'll be home"

"Oh?" Mr. Suzuki asked. "Guess he's working late tonight, huh?"

"No," Kai said. "It's my ex husband, the kids' bio dad," she explained. "He's on trial, and Horatio wanted to be there at the courthouse."

"Our dad shot at Mama and Horatio," Kani said. "That's why we asked to be adopted by Horatio. He's a great dad!"

"Well, yes," Kai said. "Eric shot at Horatio and I stopped him...I took the bullet in the shoulder"

Both teachers were shocked to hear that. "And your ex," Miss Jones said. "He is or was CSI?"

"He is now a former CSI," Kai told them. "He wasn't too happy when I left with the twins. They were two at the time, and they'll be nine soon, so that was seven years ago. We all came back this year. This year was really hard for us. My mother died; we came back to Florida, everything happened with their bio dad. And to top it all off, we went to Hawaii, but that was hard too. Things happened there that I'm not comfortable talking about. And now- the kids' bio dad is on trial, and that's stressful."

Both teachers were silent, processing everything Kai and the kids told them. Miss Jones then spoke up. "The kids' father- there's no way he would try to come to the school, right?" she asked "We're not going to have to do a lockdown, are we?"

"No," Kai said. "He in court today. Hopefully the jury will find him guilty, and he'll be in jail for a while. Between being kidnapped by Eric and being shot, I've had enough. This year is a new year and I'm determined to make it a good one. We're going to New York for spring break; I have a friend there. And it'll be a fun summer; we're going to travel to Alaska and Italy. Hopefully the play and activities during vacation time will help everybody relax a little. We'll get through it all, together, as a family."

Mr. Suzuki nodded. "I wish you luck," he said. "Thank you for sharing with us some of what is going on, and some of your past. I hope your future brings you peace"

"Thank you so much," she told him. "I appreciate that so much. It's been a bad year, but it definitely got better when I married Horatio and he adopted my kids. Hopefully things will keep improving." Kai glanced up, and saw Mrs. Garcia down the hall. "Oh- excuse me," she told Mr. Suzuki. "I have to talk to Mrs. Garcia about something. I'll be back here on Wednesday to get the sign-up sheets, then Thursday we'll get started on auditions, so please let the parents know."

The teachers nodded and agreed to let the parents know and said good-bye to Kai and the twins.

The two women talked a couple of moments more before Kai took Kani and Isabella home. "Mama, what's for dinner tonight?" Isabella asked. "Is it one of Nonna's recipes?"

"Of course," Kai said. "And listen- Bella- I know you miss Nonna, and I do too. But let's not think about that, just for today. For one day. I love Nonna as much as you do, and I understand her anniversary is coming up, but..." she paused and shook her head, not wanting to continue her sentence. Then she let the kids in the house and went to the living room.

The twins looked at each other and sighed, before starting their homework. Neither of them had seen Kai like this. They wondered if they talked about Nonna a little too much; maybe it was starting to hurt their mom's feelings. Needless to say, they were too preoccupied to get very far with their homework.

When the twins came back into the living room they could see Kai had been crying. She was holding the crystal she had gotten for Christmas. Kani and Isabella watched their mother, they wanted to make sure she was okay before they had to call Horatio.

"Mama," Kani said. "Mama, we're sorry...we sometimes forget how much you love Nonna too..."

Kai shrugged, letting the kids know she wasn't in the mood to talk. The twins got the hint and went back to the table to attempt to work on their homework, but ended up just writing notes back and forth to each other.

An hour later, Calleigh and Horatio came home. "Hello," Horatio said. "We're home...Kai?"

Calleigh looked over to the twins; they pointed to the living room. "Kai is in the living room," she told Horatio.

Horatio went into the living room. He took the sculpture from Kai and set it down, then sat next to her and took her hands. "Kai?" he asked, squeezing her hands. "Kai, is everything alright?"

She looked at Horatio and showed him all the hurt that was in her eyes, but didn't speak a single word.

"What happened?" Calleigh asked the kids, dishing up dinner for the four of them. "Was it the school?"

"No," Bella said. "It was us..I think we hurt Mama's feelings by talking about Nonna a lot, like a lot a lot. She hasn't spoken to us since before we got home"

The twins sat down to eat. In the living room, Horatio took Kai's hands. "Come eat," he told her softly. "You still need to keep your strength up" He pulled her up and walked her to the dining room.

Kai sat, and Horatio put a bowl in front of her. She looked at it and started to eat. It was the quietest dinner they have had in a long time.

Calleigh and Horatio looked at each other, worried for Kai. This wasn't like her; she was usually talkative about her day and the twins' day. But tonight, it was like a switch that was turned off.

Kani and Bella finished eating, and put their dishes in the sink before going to their rooms. "Kai," Horatio said once the kids were gone. He took his wife's hand. "Kai, talk to us: it's just you, me, and Calleigh."

Kai looked up at him, then at Calleigh. "I can't do this..." she whispered, distraught. "I know the kids love their Nonna and miss her, but they way they talk about her--" She broke off frustrated, looking for words. "I feel like I'm constantly being compared to my mother, and I always come up short! I'll never be as good as Nonna; right now I wish I was the one that died instead of her! All I hear is about my mother!!! I get it-- the kids know her better, they love her, they miss her, she was amazing. But what about me?! I'm not good enough to be their mom! Maybe I'm not good enough for your, or them, or anyone!" she said nearly shouting. She got up abruptly and left the house.

The twins had heard everything. They did their homework in silence, stunned. Calleigh cleaned up from dinner.

Horatio tried to follow Kai, but lost track of her. He stopped, panting and out of breath, and pulled his phone out. He thought about the places she might have gone -- the PD, the school, her favorite coffeehouse. He called them all, asking them to look out for Kai and call him if she showed up.

When he had called everyone he could think of, he hung up. Then headed back to the house to grab the car keys, planning to go drive around the neighborhood and look for Kai. When he walked in, the twins came flying out of their rooms. "Mama!!" they said in unison, expecting to see Kai back safe and sound.

"Sorry," Horatio told them. "Your mom got upset and left. I'm going to go find her. Don't worry, I'll find her and have her back here in no time."

Kani and Bella nodded. "Good. And dad?" Kani said. "When you find her, don't put her in the hospital. She wouldn't want that."

A few blocks away from the house, Kailani found herself wandering. She wasn't exactly sure where she was. Walter happened to be driving by, and saw her. She seemed upset and disoriented, so he parked and got out. "Kailani," he said, walking up to her. "It's me, Walter. Talk to me," he said.

Kai stopped walking and looked at Walter. She began talking to him about everything; as she talked, Walter texted Horatio. He texted that he had Kailani with him and was sitting on her, and told Horatio their location.

Back at the house, Horatio read the text. "Walter found her," he said to Calleigh and the twins. "I'm going to go get her now. We'll be back soon."

While Horatio drove, Walter helped Kai into the car and put a blanket around her. They continued to talk. He listened to what she had to say about Eric, Alexx, and the twins. "But do you really want to end it all and leave them with no mother?" he asked, concerned. "I can see all the hurt, fear, and frustration in your eyes and I can hear it in your voice, but do you really want to do this? What Eric did was unforgivable, Alexx crossed a line, but your kids...I've seen you with them, they are your heart and soul next to Horatio. They talked about their grandma a lot because they don't want to forget her; that's normal."

"I know!" Kai snapped at him. "Sorry, I'm sorry...I'm second compared to my mother. Oh god...they are doing to me what I did to Mama," she realized, distraught. "I compared my father to her..I was always a daddy's girl. But it was Mama- that was there when he left, when they divorced, when my stepdad died..." Kai put her head on her knees and cried.

Horatio pulled up. He got out and headed for Walter's car. As he got nearer, he could hear Kai saying how stupid she was. He knelt down by the open door of the cruiser and took Kai's hand. "Kai," he said softly. "Kai, let's go home."

Kai reached for Horatio. He picked her up, and returned Walter's blanket as Kai buried her face in his neck.

"I'll call you later Horatio," Walter told him. "Or call me when you get home."

"Let me get her home," Horatio said. "I'll get her to bed, and then I'll call you."

The two CSIs said their good-byes. Horatio carried Kai to the car and put her in, buckled her seatbelt and closed the door. Kai leaned her head on the window. She was embarrassed by her actions. This felt like something she would have done years ago with Jonathan, or with Eric; actually it was something she *had* done with Eric. She had never imagined that she would ever run from Horatio, but she had. 'He probably hates me,' she thought to herself. 'And the twins...' She sighed deeply. "I'm a horrible wife and mother." she said.

"No, you're not," Horatio told her gently. "You're a great wife, mother, and friend. Just a lot of crap has happened to you. What happened tonight? I want to hear your side before I call Walter."

Kai launched into details about everything- her feelings about the trial, about what happened in Hawaii, about what happened with Alexx at Christmas and now with the kids. She talked until they pulled into the driveway. Horatio killed the engine and looked at her, then took her hand.

"Before I left to come find you," Horatio started, "Kani asked me not to put you in the hospital. I thought about doing it on my way to get you. I feel going to the hospital would be for the best. But I know you; you'll fight against them. I'm worried about you, Kai."

"I don't want to be medicated, Horatio," Kai told him softly. "But I broke today. I can only be strong for so long. I can't do it anymore. Maybe I need to go into the hospital and stay there. I felt the ocean calling to me today the way it did in Hawaii on the day dad died...I'm so broken H...so very broken" Kai broke down crying in the car again.

Back at the house, the twins were worried. "Calleigh," Bella said. "Does mom need to go into the hospital again? She looked so sad tonight, so upset..."

"I don't know," Calleigh admitted. "Your mom is having a hard time with things right now. A lot of things have happened in the last month, and it's all been hard for her to deal with. I'm sure your dad won't put her in the hospital. Have you seen your mom like this before?" Calleigh wondered aloud. "I mean really down and out? Has she ever run away before?"

Kani and Bella thought back and shook their heads. "She's always been the strongest person we know," Kani said. "Even when Nonna died, she barely grieved and gave us more time to do so. Everything had happened so fast. Nonna died, Horatio came up, he left, we moved. And then Mom ran into Eric, her and Horatio got married, and we started school. And mom was pregnant, and she got kidnapped and shot, and then she lost a friend. It really hasn't been the best year for Mama."

Bella nodded at what Kani said. "She's always been strong for us. We don't know what it's like to have a parent that isn't alive anymore...Eric is our bio dad, and now we have Horatio. Thank goodness- we would rather have Horatio as a dad, seeing what Eric did to Mama.."

"I'm sure everything will be fine," Calleigh told Bella, hopefully. " Your mom is a tough lady and a good person. She's just having a hard time because so much crap that has happened to her. She loves all of us so much, and has so much to give."

Arriving back at the house, Horatio called Walter. He asked what happened when he and Kai had talked. Walter explained, almost word for word, what Kai had said. "Thank you sir,: Horatio told him. "See you tomorrow." He then got out of the car and got Kai out.

Kai looked down and let Horatio guide her into the house. Horatio brought her inside and helped with her shoes. She didn't look at anyone, she was too embarrassed. "I'm sorry" she whispered. "I'm sorry I'm a bad mom."

The twins ran to hug her. Kai stepped back away from them; it was the first time she had done that to them. "Are you mad at us?" Kani asked. "Don't you want a hug?"

Kai didn't answer; instead, she just moved closer to Horatio. Horatio took her to their room and closed the door.

Outside, Kani and Bella looked at each other then at Calleigh. "S-she has never done that to us," Bella said. "That hurts...mama always give hugs and kisses, and she's the best snuggler ever!"

"Bella," Kani said. "I think we really hurt mama's feelings this time. There's not a time she doesn't give us a kiss or a hug...except tonight." He paused looking at the closed door. "That felt like a huge slap across the face. Maybe we shouldn't talk about Nonna so much."

Calleigh helped the twins get ready for bed. She hoped that Kai would come out before the twins went to bed, and would show them at least a little affection.

In the bedroom Kai undressed and put her pajamas on. She crawled into bed and broke down crying. Horatio sat with her, letting her cry herself out until she was ready to talk. "They just wanted a hug..." she said. "I denied them that, I've never done that before...I'm sure they hate me; I'd hate me if I were them."

Kai looked at Horatio. "I don't know what happened, I was thinking of working again, and then we were talking about mama, and I just snapped. I need help, Horatio. I don't want to be on pills, but I guess I'll have to be...I don't want to be drugged out while I'm working with the kids."

"Maybe therapy can help you, Kai," Horatio said. "Maybe to get past this, therapy could be your answer. We'll set an appointment for after the twins are in school, and I can take you, and then bring you home afterwards. Would that be okay?" he asked. "I know the twins wanted to hug you because they were scared they lost you," he pointed out to her. "And I'm very glad Walter happened to drive by when he did...I couldn't handle losing you." He then kissed her softly. "You should go to the living room and be with the twins, they need you now."

"Come with me," Kai said. "I don't want to be alone, I'm afraid of doing something stupid."

H nodded and helped her out of bed. They went to the living room where Calleigh was. "Your kids are worried about you," she said. "They are ready for bed, they just need mama right now."

Kai nodded. "Bella, Kani," she called out to them. "Come here please, babies."

The twins ran to Kai and snuggled into her. "We won't make you mad anymore," Bella said. "I don't think we could handle it if you never came home again. We would miss your hugs, your kisses, your kindness. You are an amazing mom. We're sorry for everything we've said and done to hurt your feelings..when you pulled away from us, that hurt us the most...you've never done it before."

"I know," Kai said. "Tomorrow after you guys go to school, H and I are going to set up a therapy appointment for me. I have lots of hurt. When you guys compared me to Nonna...I know you didn't mean anything by it, it hurt. I understood in that moment how Nonna must have felt when I compared her to your kupuna kāne (grandpa). I hurt her, she never showed it to me but I heard her crying about it."

"Our what?" Kani asked. "We don't know that word, is it a bad word?"

"Kupuna kāne?" Kai asked. "Oh! No..babies, I'm sorry I forgot I never taught you Hawaiian. It means grandpa. I wish you could've known him. You guys would've loved him. He was kind and sweet. Do you know the songs I sing to you when you're sick? Those were the same ones he used to sing to me when I was a little girl, whenever I got sick. Nonna would make me chicken soup, kupuna kāne since to me and would add rice to the soup, and it made me feel better. And his hugs..." she looked down at them. "His hugs..."

The twins hugged Kai again. Kani and Bella hated to see her in pain of any kind. Both were sensitive kids, but Kani was more sensitive than Bella was. Soon the twins fell asleep on her again. Calleigh smiled and went to bed, leaving the four of them in the living room.

Kai looked over at Horatio. "Therapy is sounding really good to me," she told him. "I don't want to push them away again. I love them so much."

Horatio nodded and kissed her forehead. "We'll go tomorrow," he said. "I want you to get better. I want you to be happy."

"I want to be happy too," Kai told him. "I really don't like this depression that I'm going through. I don't want to be like this..I don't want to be on pills, but if it comes down to it, then I guess I'll have no choice."

She picked Kani up and stood up. Horatio helped with Isabella, and they took the twins to bed. Once the twins were tucked in, Horatio took Kai's hand and led her back to their room. Kai once again crawled into bed; Horatio changed his clothes and crawled into bed with her.

He held her close. "I'm going to be late coming home tomorrow," he reminded her. "The trial starts at 2 again. Are you going to be okay?"

"I should be," Kai said. "I really don't know though, H. I feel so guilty, so bad...I've never pulled away from the kids like that before. I wouldn't blame them if they were upset with me." She sighed. "Why me, H? Why did life decide to throw me a shit show?" she asked. "Mama explained that her and dad weren't in love and that was the reason for their divorce. That much I understood. But what hurt me is that dad didn't stay in New York, he went to Hawaii! I wanted him to stay in New York where I could see him! I begged and pleaded for him to stay. But he said he couldn't- the island was calling him home. My world came crashing down hard that day...my dad was my hero, and I had just lost him. I went back to New York so mama wouldn't be alone. Mama was always there for me. And when I came home she knew I was different, not the same girl that left here. She knew I was just feeling upset that daddy didn't stay, I chose the wrong path...mama did her best to help me out, but it wasn't enough. I got in the wrong relationships...by some miracle I've always gotten out of them. Then I met Jonathan...thought he was different, and he was until he first hit me." Kai was shaking as she told Horatio everything. "I was literally broken by that man, I don't know how I managed to get out of it long enough to come find you but I did. As you know he found me and almost killed me. I wish, that day we met up, I wish I had asked you to marry me then. The only thing I don't regret from Eric is Isabella and Kalani. I don't regret you either H."

Horatio took it all in, listening to everything Kai said. Some of it wasn't anything new to him, he had heard before about how her ex Jonathan, how badly he had beaten her. He saw that for himself. Kai leaving New York to find him, the twins. He had wished the same thing- that he could have married her before Eric. It made him wonder- if that had happened, would they be still together now?

Horatio didn't have all the answers. He didn't know what their life together might have looked like, if Eric had never come along. But he *did* know he would've fought for Kai. During their very first fight, Horatio had realized that her coping mechanism was to run. She had run to the beach, towards the water. Horatio had a feeling that's what was going on with Kai again now. This was just how Kai dealt with thing; running away was easier for her than facing her demons and thinking about her past. Running; was her MO; it was what she did the best.

Kai was laying with her head on Horatio's chest; it was her favorite sleeping position. She drew little circles on his chest with her fingers. "H," she said softly. "If we *had* married each other eight years ago, do you think we'd still be together now? Do you think we would have worked out? Or would we be divorced?"

"Are you wanting a divorce?" Horatio asked, half-joking, sure it wasn't true. "And to answer your question, yes. I think we would be still married."

"No," Kai assured him. "I don't want a divorce. I'm not going to rip the kids away from the only good dad they've ever had, after just a few months. It's just part of the stuff that's been going through my mind lately."

"I love being a stay a home mom," she continued. Helping the kids with school, working at the school...but like you said, there is going to come a time when they won't want me around so much. That's why I've been thinking about working again. It will help with money too; we'll have more saved up when it comes time for you to retire." She sighed and looked up at Horatio. "I'm not perfect, H. I have a lot of problems. No one is perfect, and I know that. But how you deal with me, and put up with me, is beyond me sometimes."

H chuckled. "I put up with you because I love you, Kai," he told her. "I'm glad you don't want a divorce. I don't think I could handle it. Because if we did I think you would run, and this time the kids wouldn't go..." Horatio said honestly. "I love you and have loved you since I first time I met you," he told her. "I'm not going let you wiggle out of this that easily. And if you decide you want to go back to work, I will support you. I'm guessing you would want to work during the day, while the kids are at school, right?"

"Yes," Kai said. "Or maybe start in the morning before-then you could take them to school and I could pick them up..." She paused, a concerned look on her face.

"What's wrong?" Horatio asked. "What are you thinking about?"

"H, if I go back to work we'd need another car..." Kai told him. "But I'm not ready to drive again, I can't..." Her body shook as she remembered the kidnapping.

Horatio held Kai close, rubbing her back and speaking in soft tones to her. "What about working at home? Blankets..." he thought out loud looking down at her. "You can make blankets and sell them. I can get you fabric, yarn, and anything you need. You wouldn't have to drive anywhere. We have a sewing machine so, why not?"

Kai looked up at him. "Really?" Kai asked, her eyes shining. "That's a great idea! And I could bake and sell cookies too! I think I would have to get a permit to do that here at home, but I think that would work out! Big blankets for king and queen size beds!! Yes, H!! That's a great idea!!" she said, excited.

"I can start working on that right after the play!" she added. "I still need to get into therapy to get over the trauma, but...something where I don't have to drive, and doing what I love...I can do that. Oh! Maybe I can teach some of the neighborhood kids how to bake or cook!" Kai's mind was racing a million miles an hour, and Horatio chuckled more. He loved seeing her like this. He knew she had issues to deal with, and he knew her depression was getting worse. But this wasn't the time to tell her that; it would only upset her. And besides Horatio knew she had to figure that out on her own. And once she did, he would support her in everyway he could.

Down the hall, Kani woke up. He got out of bed and went to Kai's door and knocked. "Mama," he said. "May I come in?"

"Come in, Kani," Horatio said. "Is everything okay?"

Kani ran to the bed and climbed up, and hugged Kai again. "I'm sorry we were bad," he told her. "We really do love you mama, please forgive us."

Kai hugged him back and rubbed his hair. "I love you so much," she said. "And I will always forgive you baby, no worries. I'm sorry I was being a downer. It's just everything hit all at once today. You're my little boy and even when you don't need me as much, I will always be your mom and love you endlessly."

"We won't talk about Nonna as much," Kani promised. "I know we all miss her, but not like you do, I know. We don't want you to be sad, we just want to keep her memory alive. That's all."

"I know," Kai said. "I really miss her and my dad too...I think you would've liked him, Kani."

Horatio had a feeling Kani wasn't going to go back to his room for the night. He laid down. Kai turned and laid down as well; her back was pressed against Horatio's chest and Kani's back was pressed against hers. It wasn't often Kani came in to snuggle up like this. The twins had done it for a year after they moved to Alaska, but it had been a long time since. Kani fell back to sleep in his mother's arms, feeling safe and protected.

As Kani dozed off. Kai moved her head just a bit and looked up to Horatio. "I love you," she told him. "I love you more than you'll ever know H, kiss?"

Horatio gave her a loving kiss. "I love you too," he told her, breaking the kiss. "You're the love of my life Kai; you always were the love of my life. I will protect you and the kids with every fiber of my being." he promised. It was a promise he intended to keep.

The next morning Kai was in a better mood. It was going to be a big day for her, but she was ready to handle it. She made breakfast; biscuits and hashbrowns were on the menu that morning.

Calleigh was already up and grabbing her morning cup of coffee. "Good morning, Kai," she said. "How are you feeling this morning? Better, I presume."

"Yes," Kai said. "Much better, thank you! I slept so well, and so did Kani, but I'm not sure Horatio did. I'm pretty sure Horatio is going to be late this morning. We're going to take the twins to school, then we're going to set up a therapy appointment for me. Then, I'm going to start a website to sell my blankets and stuff online."

"You certainly sound busy!!" Calleigh said happily. "I'm glad today is going to be a good day for you! I'm proud of you."

"Thanks," Kai said. "It was Horatio's idea to sell my blankets, since I love making them. I want to work, but I'm not ready to drive, and that's something I can do from home."

As the girls talked, the twins came out of the bedrooms. "Good morning, mama," Bella said. "How are you feeling today?"

"Good morning, Bella," Kai said. "I'm feeling a lot better, thanks for asking. Horatio and I are taking you two to school, then I have errands to run, but I will be home in time to pick you two up from school."

Bella and Kani smiled hearing that. They wanted nothing more than for their mom to feel better. The two sat down to eat.

Calleigh took her breakfast to go, and took a little extra for Walter and Ryan. "Have a good day!" she told Kai. "Tell Horatio I'll see him at the courthouse."

"Will do!" Kai said. "Have a good day, and tell the boys to enjoy the breakfast!"

"I will!!" Calleigh called as she left. Horatio came out of the bedroom, adjusting his jacket. "Good morning," he said kissing Kai's cheek and touching the tops of the kids' heads before sitting down.

"Good morning, babe," Kai said back, handing him his breakfast and coffee. "Calleigh said she would see you at the courthouse."

"Alright," Horatio said taking the coffee and thanking her. "So I gave the lawyer all of your letters. I also saw the judge reading them, so that's a good thing. I'm not going to pull you guys out of school or make the three of you go through that. You two," he told the twins. "I'm almost certain you two will handle it, and bounce back faster than your mom."

"You're right H," Kai said, nodding in agreement. "I wouldn't be able to bounce back as fast. I've got enough problems to deal with. If I was to go to the courthouse, it would set me back more than what I already am."

The four of them sat and ate as they talked. Before long, the twins got up from the table to get dressed. Bella and Kani got ready for the day; they made their beds and brushed their teeth.

Kai finished up her breakfast and kissed Horatio. "I love you so much," she said, running her fingers through his hair. "You are so amazing to me. I'm going to go get dressed, so we can get the kids off to school and set up my appointment."

Horatio smiled, and leaned into her. "I love you," he said. "So very much. You are my world, Kailani, and I'm so very glad you are my wife."

Kai smiled and kissed the top of his head. "I love you too," she said. "I'm glad you're my husband as well. You are so amazing to me." Kai then went to the bedroom to get ready to go with Horatio.

Horatio hoped this next therapist would be the one. The one to help Kai realize that she really was depressed, and convince her that no amount of natural herbs was going to help her with her depression. If Horatio knew Kai, though, she would argue with the therapist that there was a way to solve the problem without medication, and she would go about finding it.

Bella and Kani came out of their rooms and looked for Kai. "Where's mama?" Kani asked Horatio.

"Your mother is getting ready to go," Horatio told them. "Give me a moment to check on her, she's taking longer than usual." He then got up from the table and went to the bedroom. Inside, he found Kai sitting on the bed, dressed and ready to go. She was deep in thought, inside her own head again; which for her was dangerous. "Kai?" he asked, touching her shoulder.

Kai jumped, knocking his hand away. For a moment she had forgotten where she was and who she was with. She started to curl up in a ball, but didn't; something in her mind told her she was safe. Horatio watched her. "Captain," he said. "The kids need to go."

"Kids..." Kai whispered looking up at him. "Horatio..."

Horatio sighed. He picked Kai up and carried her out to the dining room. "Alright kids," Horatio said softly. "Let's go, I'll walk you into the school today."

The twins nodded and looked up at Kai a little worried. School was going to be a little nerve-wracking for them today. Horatio set Kai down long enough to help her with her shoes, then he held her around the waist and brought her to the car with the twins. Kani and Bella got in the backseat and buckled in. Kai got in and buckled in as well. Horatio walked around and got in, and together he and Kai took the twins to school. When they arrived, Horatio got out and helped the twins, and walked them into the school.

"Good morning, Lieutenant Caine," Mrs. Garcia said. "Where's Mrs. Caine? Good morning Bella, Kani."

"Morning!" Bella and Kani said in unison. "Bye dad"

"Have a good day, you two," Horatio told them. "Mrs. Caine is not having a good morning, but she will be here tomorrow for auditions."

"Oh, good," Mrs. Garcia said. "Will we see her later when she picks up the kids? Or will you do it?"

"You should see her," Horatio said. "But if not, then it's going to be either myself or Miss Duquesne that will be here."

Mrs. Garcia bid him well, and went into the office to start the day. Horatio was back in the car by the time she started the pledge. As he got in, he noticed that Kai was zoned out again. Horatio started the car and drove towards the hospital with her.

Kai came back to reality when she felt the car move forward. She looked at Horatio. "I'm sorry," she told him. "I don't why I keep zoning out...this isn't healthy for me I know that..." She looked down at her hands and sighed.

Horatio pulled up to Miami General and parked the car, then took her hand. "Kai," he said softly. "Let's go get you an appointment. If we can get in right away that would be great, but remember I have to be at the courthouse by two p.m."

"I remember," Kai said softly. "I wish you didn't have to go H...I don't trust myself to be alone."

Horatio looked over at her and took her hand. "Let's go," he told her softly. The words he heard her speak were heartbreaking. No one- should ever have to feel that way, especially his wife. He hoped therapy would help her to feel better and to finally tame her demons once and for all.

Once they were out of the car and it was locked up, they walked into the hospital. They headed upstairs, hoping to get Kai back into therapy. The receptionist looked at them. "Good morning," she said. "How may I help you?"

"Yes," Kai said. "My name is Kailani Caine and I need to make an appointment to see a therapist. Do you have any open appointments for now?"

The receptionist gave her some papers to fill out before looking at the openings. "We don't have any appointments open right now; the next available is in a couple of weeks." she said.

"Oh, okay," Kai said, a little disappointed that she couldn't see someone that day. "And what about twice a week?" Kai asked, looking from the receptionist to Horatio. "I would like to go twice a week, because I don't think once a week is going to be enough."

Horatio nodded. "If we can get the same times," he said. "That would be helpful. Anything after 1 p.m. is hard to do."

The receptionist nodded. "We can do Tuesdays and Fridays." she told them. "Would 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. be okay?"

"Perfect," Horatio said. "That way we can take the kids to school and come straight here. And afterwards I can drop you off at home and go to work."

Kai nodded, and sat down to work on the paperwork. Horatio sat as well. While Kai filled out papers, he texted Calleigh. "Kai got an appointment for a couple of weeks from now. They didn't have anything available today. She'll be going twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m....I'm a little worried, Calleigh," he confessed. "Kai zoned out twice this morning, once before we took the kids to school and once while I was taking the kids into the school. Her depressions is getting worse.

At the PD, Calleigh heard her phone go off. She read what it said, then sighed. "You know," she texted back. "You know you can't tell her that, she has to figure it out on her own."

Horatio read the text. "Yes," he replied. "I know. Her first step was asking for help. And that's a good start. She told me, she wished I didn't have to go to the courthouse. She doesn't want to be alone, she doesn't trust herself."

The two CSIs wished the same thing. They looked forward to sitting in the courtroom watching their former colleague getting the justice he deserved for what he had done to both Horatio and Kailani: the attempted murder of Horatio and the kidnapping of Kailani-- Horatio hoped Eric would go away for a while, and just leave Kai and the kids alone.

Once Kai was done filling out the paperwork she talked to the receptionist and requested a female therapist if possible, as trust with men was hard. There were only a handful of men that Kai trusted.

The receptionist told Kai that she would be seeing a therapist named Susan Walker on Tuesdays, and on Friday as well. Kai thanked her, and said they would be back for her appointment in two weeks. She then took Horatio's hand, and they left to do a few small errands before he had to go to the courthouse. One was a trip to the craft store, to buy material and batting for the blankets.

Back at school, both Mr. Suzuki, and Miss Jones noticed that the twins were a little distracted. At lunch the teachers requested that both twins come eat in Mr. Suzuki's room, so they could talk about why they were so distracted.

The twins told them everything starting with the night before and leading up to them coming to school that morning. "So," Mr. Suzuki said to them. "Correct me if I'm wrong here; you think your mom is sick? Not like a having-a-fever sick, but something's-wrong-and-you-don't-what-it-is kind of sick?"

Bella nodded. "We don't exactly know what it is," she said. "But we've heard Dad say Mama's depressed. I don't know if that's true, but it would make sense. It's gotten worse since mama lost the baby."

"Your dad will help your mom," Miss Jones said. "I don't see why he wouldn't. From what I understand, the way you two talk about him and the way your mom talks about him, he is an outstanding guy. Your mom gets this silly look on her face when she talks about him. Like they've known each other for a while...like years."

Kani laughed. "You're right," he said. "They have known each other for a while. They grew up together. Dad, Mama, and Uncle Raymond. We don't know the full story on Uncle Raymond but, all dad will say is he had a brother and the three of them grew up together."

Back in the car, heading to the craft store, Kai and Horatio stopped to get coffee. "I didn't thaw anything out for dinner," Kai said. "How about we get take out hamburgers and fries for dinner?"

"That sounds good," Horatio said. "I'm sure the kids will enjoy it. Just text me your order and I'll pick it up on the way home."

"I will," she said. "I just want a bacon cheeseburger with fries and a chocolate shake."

Horatio laughed. "I think I'll get the same," he said. "That sounds really good. And if I know you, you'll pick something for tomorrow when you get home, and start to thaw it out. And the same for Friday."

"Yes," Kai said, nodding. "I hope the kids are okay...I didn't mean to worry them...I've been doing that to them a lot lately."

"They love you," Horatio told her, squeezing her hand. "They want you to get better, so you are around for them. And I want you to get better, so that when I retire we can have a cozy little one or two bedroom house. Just you and I, and we can move anywhere you want to go. Georgia. Alabama. North Carolina, South Dakota. I want to spend the rest of my days with you."

"And I with you," Kai told him. "I want to be around until our dying day."

Horatio grabbed the coffees, and they headed to the craft shop so she could get what she needed. After they were done they went to the store to pick up paper, Kai had an idea. They went to McDonald's for lunch, then home.

"I have an idea," she said looking at him. "The reason I got some notebooks was so I could start writing down everything that happened to me, from the time I was a kid until now."


"That's a terrific idea," Horatio told her. "I'm so glad you can start writing about this. I'm sure you still have paper around the house from last school year. You could use that to start...but don't do this unless you really want to."

"Yes," Kai said. "I think I do have paper around the house from last school year. Whatever books we got will be filled up fast, and the kids' paper from last year too. I don't really care if the book ever gets published or not...the fact that I can write it all down is a good start. I think I have some diaries somewhere with what happened; that could help, right?"

They ate and talked. After they ate Horatio helped her clean up and kissed her deeply. "I love you Kailani Caine," he said. "And I will until my dying day."

Kai gave him a big hug. Her hugs usually expressed gratitude, and this one was no different. It was letting him know she loved him and how much he meant to her. Horatio kissed her nose and then left the house so he could make it to the trial on time.

After Horatio left, Kai went in search of paper so she could start on her story. She got so involved in her writing that she forgot the time. The phone rang, jolting her from her thoughts. It was the school calling. "Hello?" Kai answered

"Mrs. Caine?" Mrs. Garcia asked. "Are the twins walking home by themselves today?"

"Wait, what?" Kai asked, startled. "What time is it?"

"It's a quarter after two," Mrs. Garcia replied. "They are ready to go home."

"Sh-, yes I'm on my way!!" Kai said scrambling to get out of the chair. She had been in the zone, absorbed in writing, and had forgotten about the kids. "I'll be right there!!"

She grabbed her keys and left her phone at the house. She put on her shoes and ran straight up to the school. Winded and out of breath, she walked in, panting heavily.

The twins looked over and smiled, seeing their mom. "Mama!!" they said in unison.

"I am SO sorry babies" she told them. "I was writing something and I wasn't paying attention to the time. I'm SO sorry!!"

Mrs. Garcia smiled, watching the three of them. "Mrs. Caine," she said. "It's okay, it's the first time it's happened. We're not too worried about it. It's not an everyday thing that you do, and if it did happen again we could call either Lieutenant Caine, or Miss Duquesne to come and get them."

Kai nodded and took the twins' hands. "Let's go home, she told them softly. "Dad's going to bring home dinner tonight. See you tomorrow morning," she told Mrs. Garcia.

Mrs. Garcia nodded and waved as Kai and the kids left for the day. On the way home, Kai explained to the kids what had happened earlier, and why she was late.

"How did therapy go, mama?" Kani asked. "Are you going to be okay?"

"Eventually yes," Kai said. "It's not an overnight fix, though- I have years of things I have to work on. I started writing it down on paper, so I could show the therapist in a couple of weeks when I go in, they didn't have an opening today."

"Well, that stinks," Bella said. "Are you that broken, Mama?"

"Oh, baby girl," Kai said. "You have no idea how broken your Mama really is...inside of my head it's messy, full of hurt, anger, and confusion. I hope this therapist lets me start from the beginning; I really need that from her."

"That's good," Kani said. "I'm glad to hear that you are going to get help, and I'm glad you're writing."

"Thanks," Kai said. "It felt good to write today. I'll set a timer tomorrow, so I can make it to school on time for the auditions. Are you two going to dress up like Dad and Calleigh?"

"I was thinking of just taking it, my costume to school," Kani said. And when school lets out, then I'd go get dressed up like Dad."

"Me too," Bella told Kai. "I want to take my outfit to school, and dress up after school is out. I don't want it to get dirty."

"That's a good idea," Kai told them. "I could bring the clothes to you guys when I come up for the auditions. Oh! Before I forget...Dad is picking up dinner tonight. It's hamburgers. I will pull stuff out for tomorrow's dinner later on. Then before I come up to the school tomorrow, I will throw it in the crockpot, so we can all eat after auditions."

The twins nodded. They went inside and went to the kitchen for a snack. Kai went and sat back down, and looked over what she had written so far.

"Mama," Bella called out from the kitchen. "Will you text Dad and ask him to get me a bacon cheeseburger, no pickles, please?"

"Yeah," Kani added. "I would like a bacon cheeseburger as well, please, and a Sprite"

Kai laughed at what her kids had said. "Well then," she said smiling. "Looks like we're all getting bacon cheeseburgers tonight. Bella, a Sprite for you too?" She then texted Horatio everyone's order.

"Yes please," Bella said. "That is kinda funny. And Mama, did you decide what you're going to do for work?"

"Yes," Kai said. "Dad and I came up with an idea. I'm going to stay home, since we only have one car. I'm going to make blankets and stuff to sell. And I was thinking of maybe helping some of the neighborhood kids take cooking lessons, so when they get to be out on their own, they'll know how to cook. Also, I'm going to start writing down my days. As part of my therapy to myself."

Kani smiled. "Mama," he said. "I'm so proud of you. Seeing you get help, makes us happy. And we love it when you're happy."

Meanwhile, downtown, it had been a long day at the courthouse; Eric's trial was winding down. Horatio finished testifying. "Thank you, Lieutenant Caine," the defense attorney told him. Then, he turned to the judge. "No further questions, your honor."

The judge nodded. "Lieutenant Caine, you may step down now."

Horatio nodded crisply and exited the witness stand. He returned to his seat, breathing a sigh of relief. The hard part was over. As he listened to the two attorneys making their closing arguments, he thought of Kai and the kids.

Kai, of course, had been required to be present, and to testify. But it had gone far better than Horatio had expected. Perhaps seeing Eric on the stand, knowing that he was finally being held legally accountable for his actions, was therapeutic. Maybe being able to tell her side of the story to the court was, too.

Either way, she had done a good job, remaining calm if tearful on the stand. Horatio and the prosecuting attorney had spoken to the judge in chamber about the mental health issues she was experiencing; the judge, thankfully, had understood, and had allowed her to leave the courtroom once her testimony and cross-examination were complete. Calleigh had taken her home, and sat with her for the rest of the day.

Finally the closing arguments were completed. The judge read the jury their instructions, and they retired to the jury room to deliberate.

Two long hours later, Horatio stood, elated. The jury had returned its verdict, finding Eric Delko guilty on all counts. Horatio watched as Eric was sentenced and led away in handcuffs, then hurried outside to call Kai and relay the good news. "Kai," he said into the phone, walking to a quiet corner. "Kai, it's done. The jury found him guilty, and he's going away for a long time. You'll never have to worry about Eric Delko again." He smiled, hearing the sound of grateful tears from Kai, and the excited voices of the twins and Calleigh in the background. Now, with the help of therapy, maybe Kai could finally put all the bad times with Eric behind her, and they could move on with their lives.

Horatio still decided to pick up food for everyone. He went to the burger joint to order all their food. As he sat there waiting for it all to be made, he was thinking of the relief in Kai's tears. He was hoping soon she would get into therapy and that it would really help her in healing.

When the order was called, he went to get it and took it out to the car, and then went home. Horatio was glad the trial was over and that everyone could move forward. He would give Kai all the snuggles for doing so well in court, and for facing the one thing that was the hardest of all- Eric.

Back at the house, Bella's stomach growled. "Mama," she said. "Is Dad almost home? I'm hungry."

"Yes," Kai said. "I'm sure he went to get the food. He'll be home soon."

Calleigh smiled and helped Kai set the table. "You did amazing today," she told Kai. "I'm so proud, of you Kai. Eric is gone now and you don't have to deal with him."

A few minutes later Horatio came home with the food. Kai looked out the window and went to help him with the food. "Welcome home," she said hugging him before taking the drinks. "It's finally over, H. This can get put behind us now."

He hugged her back. "Yes, Kai," Horatio said. "It's finally over, he can't hurt you anymore."

She took the drinks and walked in with him behind her. "Look who's home babies," Kai told the kids. "Dad brought dinner too."

"Welcome home," Kani said. "Today is a celebration!"

"Yes," Horatio said. "Yes it is. Today is a day for celebrating. I'm so proud of your mom, and you two as well. I'm hoping your mom will sleep better now, with this trial behind her."

Kai smiled as she set out the food. "Let's sit and eat," she told them. "So! Tomorrow is the big day! Auditions for the play! Are you two excited?"

"Yeah!!!" the twins said in unison.

The three adults smiled and listened to the kids talk about the upcoming play. "Kani, Bella," Calleigh said, after taking a drink of soda. "What will you do if you don't get the leads?"

Bella thought about it for a few minutes. "Well," Bella said. "If I don't get the lead I can help the kid who does get it, but I hope I do get it."

"I don't know," Kani said. "I guess I'll do what Bella will do, help the lead with their part."

Horatio smiled. "I'm proud of you guys," he told them. "That is a very grown up answer and decision. You know you just can't be handed the lead because your mom was CSI. Not to mention Calleigh and I are CSIs. It wouldn't be right, so auditions are the best way to go in deciding."

"Speaking of auditions," Bella told them grabbing her backpack. "Here is the schedule. Mr. Suzuki, and Miss Jones finalized it and gave it out today. Tomorrow is for kids with last names starting with A-F, Thursday is G-L, Friday is M-R, and Monday is the S-Z. Miss Jones said we should know something Wednesday."

"Great!" Kai said finishing up her food. "I'll walk you guys to school tomorrow and I'll bring the clothes you want to wear to school when I come pick you up. I'll leave a little earlier. And I think we're going to the gym to do the auditions? I don't know, I'll have to check. Either way, I'm going to be there early to help set up."

"What do you think, Calleigh?" Horatio asked. "Go to the school to support the twins?"

"That's a great idea, Horatio!" Calleigh said. "Maybe we can give our input too to the teachers."

"I think that would be a great idea" Kai told them both. "Okay you two, time to get ready for bed. We can work on some scrapbooking before bed."

The twins threw their trash away and went to get ready for bed. Kai watched them, knowing everything for them would be okay from here on out. They have two parents that loved them and family friends in the CSI that could teach them anything and everything they would ever need to know, if they ever decided to go into police work.

Calleigh excused herself and went to her room, as it had been a very long day for her. She was glad court was over, and that Eric would never hurt Kai again. Calleigh was so proud of her best friend for going in there and telling the judge everything. Every time Kai had wanted to cry, she had looked to Calleigh and Horatio, and continued on. Calleigh had become Kai's other rock.

Horatio smiled and threw his trash away, then went into the living room. Kani was the first of the twins to come out to the living room. "Dad," he said, sitting on the couch.

"Yes, Kani,?" Horatio asked looking over at him. "What's on your mind?"

"What if I don't get a part in the play?" Kani asked, a little worried. "I've never been more scared than I am now."

"Well," Horatio began. "There is more than just getting the lead. You can help set up, help your mom with sewing, helping the others learn their lines. There is all sorts of things you can do. Don't worry so much about it. It's okay to be disappointed if you don't get the lead role. But remember, there are lots of other important things you can do. Lots of other roles that you could play, other things you can help with. I know you'll do a good job; you'll help the play succeed no matter what you end up doing."

Kani hugged him. "Thanks Dad," he said. "I'm so scared and nervous. I don't want to blow this chance. I'm going to do my best!"

Kai had overheard their conversation, and smiled. Horatio was so good to the kids and to her, she couldn't believe how happy she was with him. Kai knew how dangerous being a CSI was. She worried about Horatio everyday, from the time he walked out the door to the time he came home. She didn't know what she would do if something happened to him.

Bella finally came out to the living room. "Sorry I took so long," she said. "I was giving myself a pep talk. Telling myself to do my best and not to worry so much."

"That sounds like smart advice," Kai said coming into the living room. "I wonder where you guys get your smarts from."

The twins giggled, knowing she was teasing them. Kai then sat on the floor with them, and the three of them did a little scrapbooking together. Halfway through, Kani was starting to fall asleep.

"Let's get you two in bed," Kai told them, standing up and holding her hands out for them. "I'll be right back H," she told Horatio. "I'm going to put the twins to bed."

"I'll be here," Horatio told her, smiling. "Good night, Bella, and Kani, see you both in the morning"

The kids mumbled good night and went with Kai to their rooms. Kai got Kani tucked in first and gave him a kiss and hug, then left his room, closing the door behind her. Kai then took Bella and helped her into bed. She kissed and hugged her as she tucked her in for the night. Kai then left the room. She closed the door behind her again, and went to the living room.

Horatio was waiting on the couch. She went to snuggle with him. "Are you okay to watch a movie?" she asked. "If not then we can go lay down and cuddle."

"I think," he told her softly. "we should go lay down. We've both had a long day, and I'm sure you're exhausted."

"Yeah," Kai said. "I actually am exhausted. Going to court was a lot for me, and I just wanted nothing more than to run away with the kids."

"But," Horatio said, "you didn't. I'm so proud of you; you didn't run. You stayed and faced him."

"Horatio," Kai said, getting up from the couch. She held out her hand to him. "I've been thinking about something..."

"Oh?" he asked standing up to take her hand. "What about?"

They walked to the bedroom hand in hand, and he closed the door behind him, taking off his coat. Kai changed her clothes and got into bed.

"About adopting a child," she said looking over at Horatio. "I know Calleigh won't be here forever, and I won't always have the kids around. So I would like to adopt a child that really needs me, like a child with Down Syndrome, or autism. I get it-I understand that a child with special needs will be with us forever, but I think it would be worth it."

Horatio heard what Kai was telling him. "Let's sleep on it," he told her. "Talk to the twins and Calleigh before we start rushing into things."

Kai nodded as Horatio climbed into bed. He laid down, pulling her close to him. "I love you, H," Kai said softly as she started to fall asleep. "Always and forever."

"Forever and always," he said. "I love you too, so much. Sleep well Kai, I will always protect you."

Horatio soon fell asleep holding Kai close to him. Kai was dreaming of their future and all the happiness it would bring to them.