Title: A class of her own

Author: Kay De'Vil

Archive: Yes

Warnings: DEATH STORY, non-cannon character. MAJOR Angst warning. Plus this is written from experience of losing a young child so it's pretty deep and dark. If it reflects even half of what I felt then it might upset some people, if it does then I apologise in advance.

Summary: After Jim is injured during a hostage situation at a local school he discovers he has a daughter...

Disclaimer: All cannon characters are the property of Pet Fly Productions, no copyright infringement is intended by this story. The characters of Katharine Ellis and Sarah Kenner are mine however. The lyrics from Eric Clapton's 'Tears in Heaven' are copyrighted, no copyright infringement is intended.

Authors Note: This wasn't exactly how the story originally went in my mind, I have an idea why it suddenly turning in this direction, but I won't bore you with details. (I guess Crewella my evil muse reared her ugly head).

/..../ = Radio or telephone conversations

{....} = Overheard conversations

I hope you enjoy it and feedback is most welcome. Good or bad, I don't mind.

By Kay De'Vil.

Sarah was only able to keep Jim in the hospital a further two days, by the end of the fourth day both Jim and the nurses were demanding he be released. Despite Blair's attempts to keep Jim calm and under control she was forced to release him before the nurses went on strike. Pushing open the door to Jim's room she scowled at him, he didn't pay any attention though, he just lay there staring out of the window as he had done so many times these last four days. Holding his medical records in her hand she walked over to the bed, Blair wasn't there, Jim had shouted at him enough for one day driving the young man to make his escape to the cafeteria for half an hour. "Well Jim, I do hope your proud of yourself" she slammed his records down on the bedside table as she glared at him.

Slowly Jim turned his head to look at her, but something about his eyes told her he was far from happy, there was something going on inside the detective's head, something that worried him. Sitting on the edge of the bed she sighed and ran a hand through her hair. "What's going on Jim? You've always been a difficult patient but you've never been just plain rood before." Slipping her hand into his she squeezed it for a moment. "Is there anything you want to talk about Jim?"

"Look I'm sorry about the way I've been behaving Sarah, I just have to get out of here"

"Why... What is more important than your health?" She saw something flash across his face and for a moment she thought he wasn't going to answer him, but when he did it wasn't the answer she had expected. "You remember Katharine?" She nodded, how could she forget the young girl. "Something's wrong I have to go see her, I have to be sure she's safe"

"Isn't she under the custody of the Winslow Institute?" He nodded and sighed his eyes yet again wondering to the window. "That's what I'm worried about" he replied honestly. Squeezing his hand Sarah stood up "Jim, I'm releasing you before the nurses go on strike. But there are some conditions to your release, I want you to go home and rest for a few days, no unnecessary heroic deeds for at least a week. You're to go home settle yourself in bed and stay there for the next few days." She knew that there was very little chance of this happening, after all hadn't Jim just confessed to being worried about Katharine? Sighing she stood up "Look Jim, I know your worried about her, but you have to consider your own health"

"I'll make sure he gets the rest he needs" stated Blair as he joined them, looking slightly haggard but otherwise all right. Smiling at him Sarah gave Jim's hand one last squeeze "Right well I'll go complete your release forms, but you ARE leaving by a wheelchair, I'll take no complaints Jim or I'll have you transferred up to the mental ward and let them handle you." Jim scowled but didn't say anything. Taking his silence as agreement, she headed out of the room, only pausing for a moment to hug Blair "Make sure he doesn't over do it" she said before leaving them alone.

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Simon had been expecting the call from Blair, he had seen Jim's behaviour over the last few days growing steadily worse and so when Sandburg had informed him that Jim was now back at the loft, he had accepted the news and informed the other members of Major Crimes.

As he left his office he glanced across the bullpen to Joel who had just come in, he had been considering mentioning the situation to the older man for the last day or so. He was about to have a word with Joel when Rhonda entered, from her expression Simon knew she had found something. She didn't even stop, heading straight into his office which wasn't her usual behaviour, usually she was polite and respectful which meant that whatever she had found out was serious. Returning to his office and closing the door behind himself he poured out two mugs of coffee and handed one to Rhonda "So what did you find out?" he questioned as he sat down behind the desk. She took a sip of the coffee and looked up at him "I had to check the information four times, I couldn't believe it the first three times, but it's true. Dear god, how are we going to tell him?"

"Tell whom, what?"

"Jim" she replied as she handed Simon the plain manila envelope she had been carrying. Confused he opened the envelope and began to read through the information before him, as he read each page his expression became more and more shocked. When he had finished he set the envelope and papers down and looked at Rhonda "Dear God"

"I know. How are we going to tell him?"

"We don't, we tell Sandburg and let him handle it... He's the best one to break this news to Jim" replied Simon. Rhonda looked at him and shook her head "Your scared of how Jim is going to react aren't you?"

"Well wouldn't you be?" Questioned Simon. Taking a sip of her coffee Rhonda's eyes told him the answer, she wasn't sure she would want to deliver this information to Jim either so she was pleased she didn't have to do it.

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Simon's arrival at the loft came as something of a surprise to Blair, he had spoken with the Captain on the phone only two hours ago and he hadn't made any mention of coming over for a visit until after his shift had finished at the station. As he let him into the loft, he noticed Simon glancing around the living area nervously.

Blair grinned as he led Simon through into the kitchen and indicated for him to sit down at the table "Jim's soaking in the bath at the moment" he explained as he poured Simon a mug of coffee and himself a cup of tea. Sitting down at the table Blair waited a moment to see if Simon would explain his unexpected visit in the middle of the day, when Simon wasn't forthcoming Blair was forced to push "So Simon, what brings you here at this time of day?" Simon didn't say anything he just pulled an envelope from his inside jacket pocket and pushed it across the table to Blair to read.

With a raised eyebrow Blair picked up the envelope and opened it, removing the papers from inside he began to read. It didn't take long for Blair to react. Flicking through the pages he looked up at Simon, shock evident upon his face "I take it you've checked this?"

"Rhonda checked it four times, she couldn't believe it the first three times." Stated Simon as he took a sip of his coffee. "How are you going to tell him?"

"Tell whom, what?" Questioned Jim as he limped into the kitchen, leaning heavily on the crutches the hospital had provided, and over to the kitchen table to join them. Blair stood and immediately moved to Jim's side. "I told you to call me before you got out of the bath Jim"

"Why, I managed didn't I?"

"That's not the point Jim, what would have happened if you'd fallen flat on your face?"

"I'd have fallen flat on my face" replied Jim sarcastically. Blair glared at him but guided him over to the table anyway. Neither man missed Simon shifting nervously in his chair, the police Captain had no desire to be present when Jim read those papers but he couldn't escape now. Jim had to know, he had to know the truth about Katharine.

Making sure Jim was seated Blair headed over to the icebox, grabbed a bottle of water, headed over to the cupboard where he had put Jim's medication then returned to the table with the tablets. Jim sighed and took the medication, taking a large drink of the bottled water he studied both Simon and Blair. With his tablets taken he set the bottle down on the table and turned to face them "OK so what's going on?" He questioned. Simon looked to Blair allowing the young man to take the lead "Simon and Rhonda have been looking into Katharine's past" explained Blair as he sat down "They managed to get some information together." As he spoke Blair passed the envelope to Jim, shooting a glance to Simon as he did so.

Opening the envelope Jim found a birth certificate and some other papers within the envelope, they seemed innocent enough but from Simon and Blair's behaviour there was something within these papers that might upset Jim. As he began to read he ignored the birth certificate for a moment opting instead to focus on the body of the papers pertaining to the legal adoption of Katharine Jane Ellis by the Winslow Institute. It was only when he turned his attention to the birth certificate that he realised what had caused his two friends so much anxiety. He felt his chest constrict as he read the name of Katharine's mother 'Rebecca Katharine Macintosh', he had known a Rebecca Macintosh before his mission Peru. They had grown close and had even discussed marriage but when he had eventually been rescued and returned to the States he had been unable to find her. He stood up and moved into the living area.

Simon and Blair exchanged confused glances, this silence wasn't exactly what they had expected from Jim, quickly getting to their feet they followed him into the living area and watched as he moved over to the shelves and removed a book from the back. They watched in silence as he balanced the book in his hand and grasped the support of the crutch before turning and limped towards the couch. Slowly lowering himself down he set aside the crutches and began to flick through the pages of the book until he found what he was looking for. Simon moved to sit on the couch opposite Jim while Blair positioned himself on the end, watching his silent friend closely. Closing the book he tossed it onto the coffee table, in his hand he held what looked to be a picture. Blair glanced at Simon but the older man just shrugged, he had no idea what was going on anymore than Blair did.

Both men had to strain to hear Jim when he eventually spoke "We met twelve months before I went to Peru." They watched as his fingers brushed over the picture "At first it started out as a purely platonic relationship but it wasn't long before we both fell head over heals in love." He smiled as he handed the picture to Blair "She was quiet a looker, don't know what she could have seen in me..." he glanced at Blair then Simon. "She was one of the best things that ever happened to me, we were going to be married after I got back from the Peru mission"

"This is Rebecca Macintosh?" questioned Blair as he studied the picture of a slim young woman with jet-black hair, smoky grey eyes and a radiant smile that spread to her eyes. Blair passed the photo over to Simon as he turned to face Jim again. Jim nodded "Yeah that's her. I tried to find her after I got back from Peru but it was as though she had dropped off the face of the earth"

"You didn't know she was pregnant?" questioned Simon passing the photo back to Blair. Jim shook his head "She never said a word, she probably knew but she wouldn't have said anything. She knew that mission was important to me" they could hear the regret in his voice as he accepted the photo back from Blair "She was like that, always thought of someone else before she thought of herself." He cradled the photograph within his hands as he looked down at it, a single tear escaping to trace a path down his face "She had the most beautiful eyes, Katharine has her eyes... I should have recognised those eyes"

"Jim you had no way of knowing" stated Blair as he rested his hand on Jim's shoulder. "I should have..." he whispered. Simon sat forward, he knew that this had to be difficult for Jim, but they had someone that needed their help. "Jim I know this probably isn't a good time to bring this up, but what are you going to do about Katharine?"

"Katharine?" questioned Jim confused, then realisation dawned on his face "God Katharine, what am I going to do?" he looked to Simon and Blair.

Blair's hand rubbed Jim's shoulder as he shifted closer to his friend "We'll do whatever you want to Jim, whatever you decide, we're behind you 100%" Simon nodded his agreement. Jim smiled gratefully at them as his fingers caressed the photo again. "If I'd have known I would never have gone" he whispered directing his statement towards the smiling face within the photograph instead of the two men sat with him.

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Sat upon her bed, alone in her room within the institute Katharine reached under the mattress and pulled out a small leather bound book. Smiling she opened the book and looked at the pictures within. She tried to focus her hearing to find out what was going on outside but the injections Ms. Sanders had given her prevented her from hearing past normal. Sighing she closed her eyes and remembered the face of the man who had saved her from the gunmen earlier in the week. Officer Jim had a kind face, he could also play her game which pleased her no end. Closing the book and returning it to it's hiding place she stood up and moved over to the small window looking out onto the small gardens within the centre of the institute building.

The door to her room opened and Ms. Sanders entered, the woman smiled at her and placed her dinner on the table. "How are you feeling now Katharine?"

"Better thank you" replied Katharine as she moved away from the window to sit at the table to eat her dinner. Ms. Sanders smiled and patted her on the shoulder. "That's a good girl"

"Can I play outside after dinner?" Questioned Katharine hopefully, but Ms. Sanders shook her head "I'm sorry Katharine, you know that's not possible"

"Please Ms. Sanders, I promise to be careful"

"I'm sorry Katharine but no." Ms. Sanders turned and left the room allowing Katharine no opportunity to ask again. Sighing Katharine began to eat her dinner, her mind once again wondering back to Officer Jim.

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Something woke Blair, he lay on his bed listening for whatever the sound had been that had stirred him but the apartment was silent. Despite the silence something deep within him made him get up, there was something he needed to do, something that needed to be said. He didn't know what it was but he knew it was important.

Leaving his room he moved as quietly as possible towards the couch upon which Jim lay. It wasn't the most ideal of locations for the big detective but with his injuries it was nearly an impossible task to get him up the stairs to his own bed, and Blair's bed was a good foot to short for the taller man. "It's OK Chief I'm a wake" stated Jim as Blair crossed the open space between his room and the couch. Sighing heavily Blair dropped down onto the couch opposite Jim "Are you all right, I thought I heard something?"

"I'm OK"

"You need anything?"

"Could you get me some water?" Blair stood and started towards the kitchen then stopped when Jim added. "And my medication"

"you're in pain?" he questioned concerned, Jim would normally dial down the pain and try to act as though nothing was wrong, for him to now admit he was in pain and needed his medications was a warning of how bad things really were with the older man. "Yeah a bit" replied Jim as he shifted trying to make himself comfortable, which was no easy task for a man of his height and build on a couch. Quickly getting the medication and the water Blair returned to the living area, handed Jim the bottle of water and shook the correct number of tablets into Jim's waiting hand.

Neither man spoke for several minutes, but when they did it was Jim who began the conversation. "How do I tell her Chief?"

"I don't know Jim" admitted Blair "but if I were Katharine I'd want to know the truth." Jim sighed and nodded his agreement "She deserves the truth, after all it's because of me she's in that institute"

"Jim you didn't put her there, you didn't even know she existed!"

"It's because of me she has those heightened senses Chief, it's because I was so committed to my career that her mother never told me she was pregnant. It's because of me Katharine's spent the last 6 years alone"

"You don't know that for certain Jim, Rebecca might not have known she was pregnant. She could have found out after you left for Peru. And it certainly isn't your fault Katharine ended up in the institute, social services should never have let her be adopted by any kind of institute!"

"What am I going to do Chief, I can just barge in there and declare I'm her father"

"What you are going to do Jim is take things slowly. We can approach the Winslow Institute and inform them of this, see how they react. We could have the wrong end of the stick as far as the institute is concerned." Jim gave Blair a disbelieving glance that never reached his Guide in the darkness of the loft, but he didn't say anything. "The question is Jim, what role do you want to play in Katharine's life?"

"What do you mean?"

"Your job is a dangerous one Jim, are you ready to make the sacrifices bringing Katharine into your life is going to bring?"

"Yes, of course. How could you even ask that Blair?" Jim sat up to fast and groaned in pain, his arm pressed to his bruised chest "She's my daughter..." Blair was immediately at Jim's side easing him back down onto the couch with gentle hands. "I know you would Jim but if your going to challenge the Winslow Institute for custody of her your going to have to make damned sure your ready for the commitment she's going to need."

"I know Chief, trust me its all I've thought about since I found out" replied Jim wincing as he settled back down onto the couch. Blair sat on the coffee table as he studied his friends face, he could see the determination upon the older man's face and knew that Jim would do everything in his power to make up the time he had lost with his daughter. Smiling he touched Jim's arm saying. "You'll make a great dad Jim"

"Thanks Chief... I still don't know how I'm going to tell her"

"How about we visit her at the Winslow Institute in a few days, speak to Ms. Sanders?"

"Tomorrow" insisted Jim "I want to do it tomorrow. I've already missed so much of my daughter's life, I don't want to miss even one more day"

"On one condition" stated Blair with a smiled. Jim looked at him through hooded eyes as the painkillers began to take effect ", which is?"

"I call Sarah and get a wheelchair sent over. I'll take you to the Winslow Institute ONLY if you use the wheelchair and STAY in it" there was a moment of silence as Jim appeared to consider the condition "OK" he replied in a low voice as he slipped back to sleep. Blair sat their looking at Jim, he hadn't expected him to give in quiet so easily and the fact he had was a testament to how committed he was to seeing Katharine and becoming a part of her life.

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It was almost eleven by the time Sarah arrived at the loft, Jim was virtually chomping at the bit to get going. As she knocked on the door she heard Jim calling out to Blair to answer the door, she smiled to herself. When Blair had called her to bring the wheelchair she had objected informing him that Jim riding around in a wheelchair might have been more restful than his usual activities but she had wanted him to remain in bed. Blair had simply stated he would explain when she brought the chair, so here she now stood on the opposite side of the door to her two most frequent and favourite patients home. It was true both be real pains in the ass while in hospital but outside of the hospital she knew that they were prefect gentlemen and very special men.

As the door opened she smiled at Blair and pushed the chair inside "Here's your chariot Jim, now Blair you said you'd explain why you are about to blatantly ignore my instructions about Jims care?"

"Take a seat Sarah, you want some coffee?" questioned Blair as he took the chair from her and steered it towards were Jim lay upon the couch. She knew he was trying to avoid the question and allowed him to get away with it for the moment "Thanks Blair that would be great. How are you feeling this morning Jim, that couch doesn't look every comfortable"

"It's not to bad" replied Jim as he glanced over his shoulder to where Blair was now busy working in the kitchen. Sighing he shook his head and looked at Sarah, clearly Sandburg had chickened out on telling the doctor what was going on so he would have to do it himself. Taking a moment for figure out exactly what he was going to say to the woman he figured the best way to tell her was to come straight out and say it. "Sarah I know Blair said he would explain everything when you came over today, but as you can see he is hiding in the kitchen right now so I guess it's up to me to explain." Sarah grinned as she too glanced at Blair whose back had stiffened at Jim's statement of him hiding in the kitchen, of course he didn't deny it which was clearly an admission of guilt. "I had noticed Jim, so what is going on. Does it have anything to do with Katharine?"

"Yes, yes it does" stammered Jim surprised at how perceptive the doctor was "You see Simon and Blair began looking into Katharine's history and well they came across something rather shocking"

"Oh?" Questioned Sarah intrigued as she sat forward watching Jim closely. Jim found himself playing with the blanket that covered him, there was something about Sarah that often left Jim feeling like a naughty child sent to the principle's office and today was no exception. Deciding to change tactics he called out "Hey Chief, give Sarah that envelope"

"Right, good idea" called Blair hurrying over to them with both the promised mug of coffee and a manila envelope. Placing the coffee mug down on the table in front of Sarah he handed her the envelope and moved to sit on the end of the couch. As he sat down Sarah noticed Jim shooting him a glance and Blair shrug, clearly Jim was unhappy at being dropped in it the way he had been and he wanted to let Blair know it. Smiling and shaking her head Sarah opened the envelope and removed the papers.

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Blair and Jim hadn't intended for Sarah to accompany them to the Winslow Institute but as soon as she had finished reading the papers within the envelope she had looked at Jim and stated in a tone that broached no arguments "I'm coming with you." As they pulled up outside the Winslow Institute Jim rubbed his sweaty palms on his jeans and glanced at his two companions "I'm more nervous now than I was when I first asked her mother out on a date" he stated with a nervous laugh. Blair smiled and Sarah squeezed his hand. "You'll be fine Jim, have you figured out what you're going to say to her?"

"I'm going to play it by ear, to be honest I don't have a clue what to say"

"Just remember your not going to be going through this on your own Jim, we're here for you"

"I know, and thank you Sarah" he hugged her quickly while Blair got the wheelchair from the trunk of the car.

Jim carefully eased himself into the wheelchair, he grumbled when Sarah placed the afghan she had grabbed from the back of the couch over his lap "Shut up Ellison, the last thing you need is to catch a cold now" she stated before indicating for Blair to lead the way. Sighing Jim settled himself into the wheelchair as Blair started to push him towards the entrance to the impressive Winslow Institute building.

Entering the building they headed directly for the security desk. "Can I help you gentlemen, ma'am?" questioned the security guard sat behind the desk. "We're here to see Ms. Sanders and Katharine Ellis" stated Jim as he showed the security officer his badge. The officer smiled "Detective Ellison it's a pleasure to meet you. We're all very grateful for what you did saving young Katharine and all" the security officer came out from behind the desk and shook Jim's hand "That little girl is something special let me tell you. She's always got a smile on her face despite her condition"

"Her condition?" questioned Sarah

"It's a shame really, she's such a sweet girl" commented the security guard. "The doctors here are doing all they can for her, but it's touch and go weather they can develop a cure in time. We're all praying they do of course" he continued. Sarah glanced at Jim and Blair her hand coming to rest on Jim's shoulder, she couldn't imagine what it must have been like for Jim at that moment to find out he has a daughter one day and then to find out she was terminally ill the next. As though suddenly remembering why they were there the guard picked up the internal telephone and contacted Ms. Sander's office "Ms. Sanders, Detective Ellison is here to see you and Katharine" he paused for a moment then nodded to him. "Very well, I'll sign them in and escort them up to your office" hanging up the phone he smiled at them. "If you'd just care to sign in I'll issue you with your visitor's passes and take you upstairs" they did as requested in silence. As Jim signed the register both Blair and Sarah noticed that his hand was shaking, he had gone deathly pale at hearing the news of his daughter but appeared to be holding it together for the moment.

In the elevator on the way up to Ms. Sander's office Sarah crouched down in front of Jim, her hands resting on his knees as she looked at him. "How are you doing Jim?" she questioned, he just shook his head and looked at her with sad, glistening eyes. She nodded and shot a concerned glance at Blair, who looked just as sad as Jim. He however was having a harder time holding back his emotions. Standing up and moving to Blair's side, she slipped her arm around his waste pulling him closer to her she tried to offer him some comfort.

Ms. Sanders was waiting for them outside her office, she smiled at them as they approached and extended her hand to Jim "It's a pleasure to see you Detective Ellison, I didn't have the opportunity to thank you for saving Katharine. Dr Kenner, Mr. Sandburg" He shook her hand but didn't say anything as Blair pushed him into her office. As everyone got themselves settled in the office Ms. Sanders studied the group before her, she recognised Blair and Sarah from the hospital "I understand you wanted to see me?" she questioned directing her questioned to Jim.

He nodded but it took a moment from him to gather himself together enough to talk to the woman "Yes. You see Katharine made quiet an impression on all of us and we decided to do some research into her past..." Jim's voice broke and he looked to Blair to continue.

Ms. Sanders was confused by the level of distress Detective Ellison appeared to be in "Can I get you something Detective, a glass of water?" she enquired already getting to her feet. When she returned with a glass of water she handed it to Jim and watched as Dr. Kenner handed him some tablets and instructed him to take them. As she sat down again she looked to Mr. Sandburg to continue with the explanation.

Pulling the envelope from his pocket Blair removed the birth certificate and handed it over "I'll cut to the chase Ms. Sanders, I suggest you check out Katharine's fathers name" he instructed. She raised an eyebrow but did as instructed, immediately she looked up at the trio then back at the name on the birth certificate "Detective does this mean what I think it means?" she questioned. Jim could only nod, yet again allowing Blair to talk for him. "You see, Jim didn't know Rebecca was pregnant when we left on a mission to Peru. His helicopter was shot down and the Army believed him dead for eighteen months. When he got back he searched for Rebecca but he couldn't find her, we now know that she was already dead" explained Blair sadly. He glanced at his friend before continuing "we came here today to find out exactly what was going on here, why Katharine was under your guardianship. The security officer informed us of Katharine's condition as I'm sure you can imagine Jim is rather upset at the moment"

"Yes, yes I understand completely. I'm terribly sorry Detective"

"What exactly is Katharine's condition?" questioned Sarah, the security officer had never really answered her question and now with Ms. Sanders she hoped to get a better understanding of what was happening to the young girl. Ms. Sanders sighed and sat back in her chair "Katharine has a rare blood disorder, her blood can't carry the vitamins and proteins required to sustain her body. We developed a serum to help but it was only a temporary measure at best. Unfortunately its becoming ineffective faster than any of us anticipated" they could all hear the sadness in her voice and knew that Ms. Sanders deeply cared about Katharine even if she didn't show it in public. "How long?" questioned Jim finally looking up at her. The sorrow she saw in those vivid blue eyes cut deep into he heart.

Up until this moment she never would have thought it possible for someone to love a child completely and unconditionally, after only knowing them a few hours. As she looked into Detective James Ellison's eyes she could see the pain and sorrow she felt for the impending death of Katharine Ellis reflected in his eyes. He loved Katharine and was now morning the time they had lost together and the time they would never share.

She hated to have to tell him he had a very short amount of time left to spend with his daughter but she couldn't lie to him, he deserved the truth. "Two maybe three weeks if she's lucky"

"That's all?" questioned Blair in disbelief his hand trembling as he reached over to touch Jim's arm. Jim didn't say anything at first, he just looked at Ms. Sanders finally allowing his tears to escape he tried to zone out, to blot out the pain he felt deep within his heart. He had found he had a daughter but would lose her forever by the end of the month.

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Pain was Jim's entire existence, he no longer hear the voices of the people around him, he didn't even hear his Guide's voice anymore, all that existed to him was pain, both physical and emotional. As even the pain began to fade into the darkness that was enclosing him a single voice penetrated the darkness, creating a ray of light that slowly began to encircle him {"Officer Jim is here! I can see him!"} As the light encircled him he felt the warmth that came with that light and he felt his heart swell under the gentle ministering of that soft, gentle voice. The light grew brighter as the voice became louder and louder. With each passing second he became more and more aware of his surroundings, of the people that stood around him, a hand resting upon his shoulder, another familiar voice calling him back from the abyss he had tried to engulf himself in.

Blair watched in concern as he whispered to Jim trying to call him back from the deep zone out that he had slipped into after being told of Katharine's life expectancy. After a moment Jim blinked and looked up at him, the pain we still visible in his eyes but he was clearly trying to mask it. "She's coming" he stated moments before there was a knock on the office door. Blair looked up and watched as Ms. Sanders stood up and walked over to the door. Returning his attention to Jim he questioned "are you going to be able to handle this?"

"I have to Chief, I've missed so much of her life already. I'm not going to miss whatever time we have left together" the conviction in Jim's voice surprised Blair, but he smiled and nodded his understanding.

As the door opened and Katharine walked in, all eyes in the room turned on her. The moment she saw Jim she rushed across the room and taking great care not to hurt him, hugged him. He returned the hug vigorously placed a tender kiss on her cheek "Officer Jim, I'm so happy to see you" she stated as she finally released him, but Jim slipped his hand within hers refusing to lose the physical contact. She smiled and squeezed his hand "Hi Mr. Sandburg" she waved to Blair, then smiled at Sarah "Dr. Kenner"

"Katharine, we have some news for you" stated Ms. Sanders as she pulled up a chair and sat down in front of Katharine. She couldn't keep the smile from her face as she looked from father to daughter, she could see the resemblance and suspected Katharine got her smoky grey eyes from her mother's side. Katharine smiled and looked from Jim to Ms. Sanders "Really, what is it?"

"Do you remember me telling you that your father had died while he was a soldier?" Questioned Ms. Sanders. Katharine nodded and lowered her head, clearly upset about being reminded of what she had missed. Ms. Sanders slipped her finger under Katharine's chin and lifted it so that they made eye contact with each other "Well I was wrong" she stated. It took a moment for Katharine to realise what she was saying but when she did she smiled and bounced on her heels. "You mean my daddy is still alive, I'm not an orphan?"

"Yes honey that's exactly what she means" stated Jim as he squeezed her hand. Katharine looked at him, her eyes holding what looked suspiciously like hope to him, his smile broadened as he realised they were about to make her a very happy little girl.

Sarah moved to stand beside Blair, her arm going around him, his going around her as they watched the silent interplay between father and daughter. "Katharine, Detective Ellison is your father" explained Ms. Sanders in a gentle voice.

Katharine shook her head and for a moment everyone in the room though she was rejecting Jim, but as a smile spread over her face and her arms slipped around his neck in another tight hug she stated "Daddy" without a moments hesitation Jim wrapped her tightly within his arms.

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Simon looked up from his paperwork when the bullpen suddenly became silent. Standing up he moved over to the blinds and glanced outside to see what had happened to silence the detectives. As he cracked open the blind he was surprised to see Jim sat in a wheelchair with Blair pushing it, Sarah Kenner stood to his left, Ms. Sanders to his right and Katharine Ellis, or perhaps that should be Ellison, sat on his lap. Smiling he opened the door to his office and glanced at Blair he smiled and nodded.

Grinning he rushed over to congratulate Jim, as he reached him he noticed an under laying sadness to the detectives eyes and glanced at Blair for an explanation, but the observer mouthed that he would explain later. Other members of Major Crimes quickly gathered around Jim to find out what the Captain was congratulating him about. As their friends gathered around, them Jim and Blair exchanged glances. "What's going on Jim, who's your little friend?" Questioned H grinning at the little girl on Jim's knee. Jim raised an eyebrow and looked grinned as he looked at his daughter "She's not little" he stated "She's a munch kin." Katharine lightly slapped his arm in objection "Dad!" Simon, Blair, Sarah and Ms. Sanders laughed while the other members of Major Crimes just stood their dumbfounded. "I am not a munch kin!"

"Oh a munch kin huh?" Questioned Simon still grinning as he looked at each of his silent detectives. Katharine grinned as she looked up at Simon, but she suddenly became shy under the scrutiny of the other detectives and leaned into Jim, burying her head in the nape of his neck. His hand automatically came up to stroke her back as he whispered words of reassurance into her ear.

Rafe and H exchanged confused glanced before they both yet again look at Jim and the little girl he held securely within his arms "Jim, did she just call you Dad?" questioned H unsure if he had heard correctly. Simon grinned and looked at Blair who was also smiling "Yes H, don't worry you don't need your hearing checked. Gentlemen my I introduce Miss Katharine Ellis" stated Blair with a big smile

"son" added Katharine grinning up at Blair. Blair grinned and nodded "I stand corrected, Miss Katharine Ellison"

"But... when, how?" questioned Rafe. Jim smiled and looked down at Katharine "When was just before I went to Peru, and how... Well Rafe, if you don't know how by now I certainly am NOT going to tell you." The detectives burst out laughing and began to congratulate Jim on finding his daughter.

After a few minutes Sarah could see that Jim was starting to get tired and so decided to break the gathering up "sorry gentlemen, Jim needs his rest. Simon can we have a word with you in your office"

"Certainly" Simon started towards his office but stopped when he heard Jim call Joel over to him "Joel can I ask you to look after Katharine for me while I'm talking with Simon." The former bomb squad Captain grinned and nodded "it would be a pleasure Jim" after a moment of hushed conversation between father and daughter Katharine slipped from Jim's knee and joined Joel over at his desk.

Blair and Jim remained where they were for a moment just watching Katharine for a moment, it was only when Simon touched Blair's shoulder did they eventually turn and head into the Captains office.

As the door closed behind them, the smile vanished from Jim's face. "How are you feeling Jim?" Questioned Simon as he sat down on the edge of his desk and took in Jim's pale face and shaky hands. "I'll survive" stated Jim looking up at his commanding officer. "So everything went all right..." Questioned Simon still grinning

"Simon..." Jim tried to interrupt the Captain with little success

"She accepted you without any problems then?"

"Simon, shut up for a minute!" growled Blair shocking not just Simon but the others as well. Simon was about to object but Blair glared at him warning to keep quiet for a moment, they had something serious they needed to tell him. Folding his arms across his chest Simon glared back at Blair for a moment then turned his attention to Jim, who rubbed his face wearily before he stated "She's dying Simon"

"What?"

"Katharine is dying, that's why she is under the guardianship of the Winslow Institute. That's why she was in the special needs school. They've been trying to develop a cure for a rare blood disorder Katharine has"

"How long does she have?" as Simon spoke he stood up and moved to look out the blinds at the little girl sat playing with Joel. The heavy sigh that came from behind him warned him that the news wasn't good. "Two maybe three weeks"

"What! God this can't be happening. You only just found her!"

"I know Simon, believe me I know... Look I know Sarah said she could release me to light duties next week all going well, but I want to spend as much time as possible with Katharine..."

"Don't worry about that Jim, I'll sign you off for the rest of the month" stated Sarah

"And anymore time you need just let me know, I'll cover it" stated Simon as he returned to his pervious position on the edge of his desk. He looked at Ms. Sanders "Is there a chance they'll develop a cure anytime soon?"

"I wish I had an answer for you. We can only hope and pray they have a break through in the next few days" she replied her own sadness evident. Jim looked at her for a moment then glanced at Sarah "Ms. Sanders we all know that even if they can develop a cure within the next few days, it's not going to help Katharine" he stated his hands gripping the arms of the wheelchair. "It will be at least another 18 months before the FDA clears any serum and you yourself said she doesn't have that time."

Ms. Sanders dropped her head and nodded her agreement, she had been living in hope but she knew he was right, there would be no cure for Katharine. "I know your right, I just didn't want to face the reality that we were going to lose her." She admitted sadly, she looked up when she felt a hand come to rest on her shoulder, and smiled up at Blair gratefully, but her smile never reached her eyes .

Jim shifted in the wheelchair and groaned catching the groups attention "Jim are you all right?" Questioned Sarah as she crouched in front of him. He nodded but winced as pain shot up through his arms into his shoulders "Could someone get him some water please" she requested as her hand stroked his forearm. Ms. Sanders nodded "I'll get it" she stated quickly standing and leaving the office, they watched as she paused to ask Rafe were she could get some water and watched as the Detective lead her to the break room. "I want to take Katharine home with me" stated Jim through clenched teeth

"Don't worry we'll sort something out with Ms. Sanders" as Blair spoke his hand came to rest on Jim's shoulder, gently massaging the tender muscles. "We'll take care of everything" the other nodded their agreement.

When Ms. Sanders returned they were beaten to the punch line "Detective, I think it would be a good idea if you take Katharine home with you. You've already lost seven years of her life, we wouldn't want you to miss another moment." Handing Sarah the bottle she smiled at the relieved expressions on everyone's faces. "Thank you Ms. Sanders, we were just talking about Katharine, Jim wants her to stay with us" explained Blair. She smiled as she sat down "I thought you might be."

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After a short stop at the Winslow Institute to collect Katharine's things they headed back to the loft. Sarah was driving while Jim sat at her side, his head resting against the window, Blair sat in the back of the car with Katharine the two of them talking amongst themselves "What are you two plotting back there?" questioned Sarah glancing in the rear view mirror. They broke apart and grinned at her. "Nothing" replied Katharine with the most innocent of smiles upon her face.

Blair grinned and leaned into Katharine again whispering to her "Your dad will probably go for a nap when we get in, as soon as he's asleep you and I can pop out and have some fun"

"I heard that" mumbled Jim from the front passenger seat. Blair grinned and lightly elbowed Katharine "is it OK if I got out with Uncle Blair, Daddy?" as she spoke she leaned forward gently touching Jim's shoulder "Please Daddy, I promise to be good." Blair knew from that moment onwards, Katharine had Jim exactly where she wanted him, wrapped securely around her little finger.

Sarah pulled the car up outside the apartment, after turning off the engine she reached across, placing her hand on Jim's forehead checking for a temperature. Jim turned his head to look at her, her hand still resting on his forehead. She smiled at him as she removed her hand, and pressed the back of her fingers to his cheek "How are you feeling Jim?"

"Like that garbage truck didn't miss" replied Jim with a slight smile. Sarah looked at him confused but Blair just chuckled. "Trust me Jim, you'd feel a lot worse if it hadn't... Come on lets get you to bed" as he spoke Blair released Katharine's seat belt and got out of the car. The little girl remained inside the car while Blair got the wheelchair out of the trunk and brought it around to the passenger side door. He smiled at her as Jim slipped into the wheelchair. Only when he was certain Jim was safely under Sarah's control, did he open the door for Katharine to get out. She knew Jim was in pain and so didn't ask to ride on his knee as she had at the station, instead she slipped her hand into Blair's and smiled up at him.

As they entered the loft Sarah started to push him towards the couch while Blair lead Katharine upstairs to Jim's room, which would act as her room for as long as she staid with them. Blair placed her bag onto Jim's bed and watched as she moved around the room studying the place that would be her home from now on. "Is this Daddy?" she questioned pointing to a picture of a man in uniform. Blair moved to stand at her side and studied the photo "Yeah I think so, I didn't know your dad back then. We only met a few years ago" leaning closer to the picture he smiled as he recognised the intense eyes of his friend. "Yeah that's your dad alright, look at the eyes" she did as instructed and looked at the man, as she did a smile spread across her face "That's dad!" Blair grinned and nodded.

Sarah moved to help Jim onto the couch but he shook his head, standing back she watched as he slowly stood and moved over to the couch, lowering himself down she heard him breath a sigh of relief and shook her head "You're a stubborn man, Jim Ellison"

"You know you wouldn't have me any other way Sarah" he grinned at her, she smiled back as she shook her head. She was about to say something when Katharine and Blair came bounding down the stairs laughing and joking with each other.

Katharine was chasing Blair who dashed behind the couch using Jim as cover against the laughing girls tickle attack. Blair circled the couch trying to keep it between himself and Katharine as he laughed, but Katharine faked him out, dashing around the back of the couch to resume her attack. Sarah and Jim watched in amusement as both collapsed to the floor, laughing and tickling each other. It wasn't long before they heard Blair gasping "Uncle", but Katharine didn't stop she just grinned at her father laughing as she said "I know you are, now give!" Jim grinned and glanced at Sarah who was smiling. After a few more minutes of tickling Blair half laughed, half shouted "Give, I give!" With one last tickle Katharine got off her uncle and moved to sit beside her dad, still laughing she watched Blair for a retaliatory attack but he was too breathless from laughing to even think about it.

Just as Blair was getting to his feet Sarah's beeper went off, sighing she looked down at the offending device and checked the phone number "Mind if I use your phone?"

"Go right ahead" instructed Jim as he slipped his arm around Katharine and placed a gently kiss on the top of her head. Sarah smiled as she went into the kitchen to use the phone, she had never seen Jim and Blair so happy, Katharine brought something into their lives she had though had been missing for a long time. As she thought about it her smiled suddenly vanished as she remembered that this happiness was only going to be for a few short weeks, soon Katharine would be gone and she wasn't sure if either men realised how empty their lives were going to feel for sometime to come.

Blair dropped heavily down onto the opposite couch, laughter still evident in his eyes as he looked at Jim and Katharine, he enjoyed having her around and even in the short time they had been together she had changed Jim. Blair had always suspected Jim would have made a great father, now as he sat watching him with Katharine he knew he had been right. Any child who had Jim as a father was guaranteed to know the best that life had to offer, and know that they were loved unconditionally. He smiled to himself as he watched Jim rest his head on Katharine's, his eyes already closing as he gave in to the painkillers. After a moment Katharine giggled and carefully eased herself out from under her father, tenderly she lowered his head down onto the pillow, kissed his cheek and moved to sit on the other couch with Blair. Leaning into Blair she whispered "Daddy fell asleep" he smiled and nodded his eyes wondering back to the sleeping form on the couch.

Sarah rejoined them looking less than happy about something, she didn't bother to sit down "I've got to go to the hospital" she explained as she grabbed her jacket from the hooks beside the door. Blair shot a glance at Jim who was still asleep. "Something up?" he questioned

"Big accident on the freeway, everyone's been called in"

"We'll have to cancel Katharine" he commented, he knew the little girl would be disappointed, she had indicated she wanted to do something special for Jim. She looked disheartened but didn't say anything "That's all right Uncle Blair, we can't leave daddy alone"

"How long are you intending to be out?" questioned Sarah as she slipped her jacket on. Blair looked at Katharine for a moment then back at Sarah. "About an hour"

"He should be fine on his own, the painkillers are going to knock him out for probably about two hours"

"You know Jim, Sarah. He never does as we expect him too." She grinned and nodded "I know, which is why I made sure to give him the most effective painkillers on your list" her sly grin told them both she had intended to give them a couple of hours away from Jim. Blair smiled and watched in surprise as Katharine stood and rushed over to the doctor hugging her around the waste. "Thank you Aunty Sarah" the young doctor was stunned by the girls words but just smiled and patted her on the back "Now when are you planning to spring whatever it is your doing on Jim?" she questioned

"Tonight about seven, Simon and some of the guys from the station are coming over the game is on tonight"

"The Jags?" questioned Katharine with a grin. Blair nodded and smiled as the girl began to jump up and down in front of him "Cool, the Jags are the greatest basketball team in the whole wide world!" she exclaimed. Blair grinned and looked at Sarah "There's no doubt she's Jim's daughter" Sarah laughed and nodded her agreement "I've got to get going, I'll pop back around seven... We should be finished by then, if not I'll see you in the morning." Both Blair and Katharine escorted her to the door and after quick hugs she left, running down the hall towards the elevator.

After checking Jim had everything he would need should he wake before they returned then, silently they slipped out of the loft and headed down to the ground floor and over to Blair's car.

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As they approached the loft Blair saw Katharine tilt her head to one side, in the exact same manor he had seen Jim do countless times when he was listening to something. Smiling up at him she pulled at his hand increasing their pace as they approached the apartment "Come on Uncle Blair, Daddy is awake and wondering where we are"

"OK, lead on Katharine" he smiled to himself as the little girl dragged him towards the door, and waited impatiently as he unlocked the door and opened it. The second the door was open she rushed inside and over to where Jim lay waiting for them. Closing the door Blair smiled as he watched Katharine hug Jim and settle herself on the couch at his side, her head coming to rest on his shoulder as she talked to him, about one thing or another.

As he joined them Blair smiled at Jim "have you been a wake long?" he questioned glancing at the bottle of water and medication that sat in the same position he had left them earlier. Jim shook his head "only about ten minutes or so, how long have you guys been out?" he questioned glancing at the clock. Katharine smiled and shifted at his side, being careful not to hurt him "Uncle Blair took me to the mall, it was cool. They have some really neat stuff at the mall daddy, you should have come with us"

"Maybe next time munch kin" he replied

"About two hours Jim, Sarah said she gave you something that would make sure you slept for a couple of hours. Guess it worked"

"Yeah guess so, remind me to have words with the good doctor about misusing her position of authority" the smile on Jim's face belayed the comment. Jim wasn't angry with Sarah, after all the woman had spent most of the day ferrying them around and helping him deal with the events of the day. After everything they had been through today he knew that his relationship with Doctor Sarah Kenner had changed for good.

About an hour later Blair was working in the kitchen while Jim and Katharine flicked through a family photo album. The knock at the door surprised them all, wiping his hands on a towel Blair moved over to the door and glanced through the peep hole, he was surprised to see Steven Ellison stood on the other side. "It's Steven" he stated as he opened the door to admit the younger Ellison "Hey Steven, what brings you here?" he questioned

"I heard about the new addition to the family and thought I would come over and introduce myself, seeing as her father neglected to call." Steven hung up his coat and smiled at Blair "Of course I can understand he's had his hands full" he added as he turned and started towards the living area where Jim and Katharine sat.

Steven was shocked by Jim's appearance he had read about his older brother and the hostage situation at the special needs school but the newspaper reports hadn't indicated his injuries to be that serious. Now however as he stood looking down at the battered and bruised man that was his big brother he shook his head "The papers said a few cuts a bruises, Jim you look terrible!"

"Nice to see you too Steven" replied Jim with a smile "Trust me, it looks far worse than it actually is"

"God I hope so cause if it's as bad as it looks you should be in the hospital" replied Steven as he sat down on the couch opposite Jim and Katharine. Jim glanced at Katharine then looked back at Steven "Anyway you didn't come here to talk about me. Katharine this is my brother, your Uncle Steven." Katharine carefully eased off the couch and moved to stand in front of Steven, she smiled extended her hand to him "A pleasure to meet you Uncle Steven"

"My you are a polite young lady" remarked Steven as he took her hand, then pulled her into a hug. She stiffened under his embrace but didn't pull away, as he held her Steven glanced over at Jim a question clear within his eyes. Releasing her he took the opportunity to get a better look at her. "You must have inherited your looks from your mother because you certainly didn't get them from your father, thank god." Katharine folding her arms across her chest, her face taking on a very Jim like expression as she stated "Daddies a hansom man!" turning he returned to her fathers side and hugged him as tightly as she dared. Jim grinned and hugged her back "At least someone defends me" Steven smiled and settled into the other couch.

"Katharine, its time for your medication" stated Blair as he joined them in the living area. Katharine shuddered and looked at her father pleading for him to let her skip the injection she so hated, but he shook his head and hugged her again "I know you don't like it and it hurts but it's very important you have it munch kin." She sighed and got to her feet, kissed him on the cheek and slowly walked off to join Blair who was already heading into the bathroom. The young observer didn't look to happy about having to give the injection but he knew it had to be done, he just wanted to get it over with as quickly and as painlessly as possible for all involved. He wanted to give the injection in the bathroom so as not to give Jim any chance of zoning on the needle as it entered his little girls arm.

Steven watched as Katharine and Blair vanished into the bathroom then looked at his big brother, a smile upon his face, but the smile quickly vanished as he saw the sadness in Jim's eyes and the slight tremble of his shoulders. Getting up Steven moved to Jim's side, sitting on the coffee table he touched his older brothers shoulder "What is it Jim, I would have thought you'd have been on cloud nine?"

"God Steven I can't believe this is happening" Jim looked at his brother with glistening eyes. He had held in his emotions in check for most of the day, but now as he sat with Steven in the front room. Knowing that Blair was in the bathroom injecting his little girl with a serum that only gave her two or three weeks more to live, his resolve vanished and his tears began to fall. Confused and concerned Steven pulled Jim to him resting the older man's head on his shoulder he tried to offer some comfort "What is it Jimmy, what's wrong?"

"She's dying Stevie. I find her only to be told we have at the most three weeks together. I don't want her to die Stevie, she can't die. Not now. Not after I've only just found her." Steven didn't know what to say, what could he say? Holding Jim he gave his older brother the support he needed "I'm sorry Jim, God I'm so sorry" his hand moved up to support the back of Jim's head as the older man allowed the tears he had been holding in to fall unhindered.

As Blair prepared the injection he had his back to Katharine, turning he was shocked to see tears streaming down the little girls face as she sat on the toilet, her head tilted to one side clearly listening to the conversation going on in the other room. Setting down the needle he crouched down in front of Katharine. "What is it Sweetie?"

"Daddies crying" she sobbed "He's crying because of me"

"What do you mean because of you?" he questioned. He suspected he already knew the answer. Throwing herself into his arms Katharine sobbed against his shoulder "He knows I'm dying, he doesn't want me to go"

"He loves you Katharine, of course he doesn't want you to go" he whispered into her ear. Katharine's sobs grew harder as he spoke to her "I wish he'd never found me, I wish he'd never known I was his daughter!"

"Dear God Katharine, why would you possibly wish that?" demanded Blair as he pulled her away from him so he could look at her, look into her expressive eyes and see the truth.

Wiping away the tears she replied in a low voice. "If I hadn't found out I was his daughter he wouldn't be crying, he wouldn't have to watch me die." Tears traced a path down Blair's face as he looked at her, his hand came up to gently brush away the tears from her cheeks "Do you think he regrets finding out that you're his daughter?" he questioned, she looked at him for a moment then shook her head "Well then, why should you. Yes it hurts him to know that you're only going to be together for a short time, it hurts us all. But that doesn't mean he would change a thing, he wants to spend every minute of whatever time you have left together, as a family and so do I. If he had never found out you where his daughter he would have been robbed of having you in his life" he stated, he wasn't sure how much of this she was taking in but it didn't really matter because he suddenly realised, he needed to hear those words himself. He too had had questions as to weather it would have been better if Jim had never known at all. However now as he knelt on the cold bathroom floor looking into the smoky grey eyes that were so different and yet so much alike those of his best friend. He knew this child who was to be in their lives for such a short time brought something special to them, something they would treasure for the rest of their lives.

Jim had managed to compose himself again by the time Blair and Katharine left the bathroom and rejoined them in the living area. As she sat beside him he could see the faint traces of her tears still remaining upon her cheeks and knew she had been crying he didn't know the cause but he suspected it was because of the injection. As she wriggled closer to him he wrapped his arm around her and kissed the top of her head "Katharine, Uncle Steven has invited us to his home so you can meet your aunty and your cousins. Would you like that?"

"Can we?" She asked excitedly looking from Blair, to Steven then back to her father again. Jim smiled and nodded. "If you want to"

"I want to, I never had a family before. Is Uncle Blair coming too?"

"Of course Uncle Blair is coming, he's family after all." Stated Steven smiling. Steven glanced at Blair, the usually vocal young man had been unusually quiet since his arrival and as he looked at Blair, he could see that his brother's closest friend was fighting to hold in his emotions.

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Steven left before the members of Major Crimes arrived to watch the game, they had talked about the visit to Steven's home, arranging it for the weekend.

As Simon and the others began to arrive Jim kept a careful eye on his daughter, he knew that she had had a busy day and he didn't want her to get too tired. He didn't know the details of her illness yet and if he was completely honest he didn't really want to know what disease it was that was about to take this precious life from him.

Katharine lay at his side, with Blair sat on the floor in front of them leaning back against the couch upon which they lay. Simon and Joel sat on the second couch while Rafe and H occupied the floor either side, this was his family of choice and the fact that they were here to support him. Would be there for him when the time came he had to eventually say goodbye to this ray of sunlight that had entered his life, meant a lot to him. More than he had the words to express.

Simon noticed him studying the group and raised a questioning eyebrow, but Jim just smiled and shook his head. Now was not the time to discuss such things, now was a time for them to sit back and enjoy the Jags thrashing the opposing team.

Sarah arrived just as the game reached the end of the first quarter and took up a position on the floor beside Rafe, she had come baring gifts and distributed the chips and beers between the adults.

Katharine had started out watching the game with the same enthusiasm as the adults but as the night drew on her shouts of encouragement to the Jags players grew more and more infrequent until finally she lay silent at Jim's side.

Carefully lifting his Jags cap, which he had given her before the start of the game Jim smiled at seeing she was fast asleep in his arms. The weight of her body and the slow steady breathing stirred something deep inside him, having her here in his arms felt right. It was something he never wanted to end but he knew she would sleep better in the bed and so when Simon appeared above him, he smiled up at him. "She's had a long day" he commented as his fingers gently brushed her hair away from her closed eyes. Simon smiled and nodded indicating his head towards Blair "She's not the only one" he commented. Blair's head was resting against the couch, his eyes closed as he gently snored in his sleep. Jim shook his head "Yeah, the last few days are finally catching up with him" he commented as he smiled fondly at his sleeping friend.

Sarah joined them, stretching to work out the kinks in her body from being in one position to long "I'll take her up to bed Jim" she said. He nodded and after gently kissing Katharine's forehead he allowed Sarah to lift her from the couch and carefully carry her upstairs to her waiting bed.

Hushed shouts of excitement drew both Simons and Jim's attention back to the game, the Jags were thrashing the opposing team as usual.

By the end of the game it was a resounding victory for the Jags 74-28. Simon grinned when he looked over at his best team he found them both asleep. Looking at Rafe and H he shook his head "you guys think you can get Sandburg to bed?" he questioned as they turned off the television. Rafe and H grinned and nodded "Yeah I think we can manage that, we'll even tuck him in" replied H with a grin. Rafe nodded his agreement as they moved to stand over the sleeping observer "Which end do you want H?" he questioned

"You take the top I'll take the bottom and we'll see how it goes from then on" replied H as he crouched down taking Blair's legs securely in his hands. Rafe slipped his hands under Blair's arms and together they lifted the sleeping man from the floor "Man, he's heavier than he looks. No wonder Jim has all those muscles if he has to carry Sandburg all the time"

"Quit your complaining" objected Rafe as he tried to get a better grip on Sandburg "I've got the heavy end" he stated as they carried Blair to his room and placed him on his bed.

With Blair safely wrapped up in bed and Jim asleep on the couch Simon, H and Rafe silently slipped out of the loft, making sure the lights were off they closing the door behind themselves, and headed to their own homes.

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Something woke Jim in the middle of the night, he lay on the couch listening to the sounds of the night, searching for whatever it was that had woken him. Searching the perimeter with his senses he found nothing amiss and so turned his attention inside the apartment, his first instinct was to check on his Guide. Blair was fast asleep in his bedroom, gently snoring. He was about to go back to sleep when he heard a soft whimper coming from his room.

His crutches were resting at the foot of the couch so with slow careful movements he sat up, eased himself to the edge of the seat into a sitting position and grabbed the crutches, using them to help him get to his feet he limped over to the stairs. In his current condition the stairs leading up to his room seemed almost like an impossible task, but as the whimpers became more pronounced he made his decision and started to slowly make his way up the stairs to his daughter.

By the time he reached the top step, his brow was beaded with sweat and his entire body was shaking. Trying to keep as much weight of his injured leg as possible he limped over to the bed and sat down, he heard Katharine's breath catch and knew she was awake. Gently placing a hand on her back he made small calming circles across her shoulders "Much kin?" he questioned in a whispered voice, he knew that whatever level he spoke at she would hear him, after all she was his daughter in every way.

After a moment she turned over to face him, her tears still running down her face as she sat up, making more room for him on lie beside her on the big double bed. Gently brushing away the tears he studied her face. "What is it munch kin?"

"I... I don't want to die. I've only just found you and Uncle Blair, you're my family and I'm not going to get the chance to know you. I mean Ms. Sanders and everyone at the Institute were great and all, but it wasn't the same" more tears began to fall as she looked at him. His heart ached at seeing the pain in her eyes, drawing her into his arms he held her as she cried, as he himself cried for the time they had lost and the time they would never share together.

He wept for the things he had missed in her life, her first steps, first tooth, first smile. He had missed them all. He wept for the knowledge he would never see her fall in love for the first time, never have the honour of walking her down the alley at her wedding and give her away to a man she loved. His heart cried out for the children that she would never have, for the joys she would never experience. She fell asleep within his arms, safe and secure in his loving embrace, her head resting upon his chest over his heart, her arms wrapped around him as he gently stroked her hair.

For the rest of the night he staid at his daughters side, treasuring ever moment he had with his daughter.

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Still half-asleep Blair left his room and after a short stop at the bathroom headed out to start breakfast, moving silently in sock clad feet he moved over to the couch to check on Jim. He didn't remember how he got to bed last night as the last thing he remembered was sitting on the floor in front of Jim and Katharine as they watched the Jags game with Simon and the others. He suspected as he had still be fully dressed when he woke that one of his friends had put him to bed, he would have to thank them the next time he saw them.

As he reached the couch he began to grow concerned, Jim wasn't where he was supposed to have been, the sheets covering the couch were in disarray. Jim's crutches were missing as well, which meant wherever he had gone, he had gone under his own power. Turning he looked up at Jim's bedroom, he could just make out a figure sat up in the bed. Shaking his head he started up the stairs that lead up to Jim's room, intending to have stern words with the older man, but as he reached the top step and looked over to the bed a smile spread across his face. Jim was sat upright in the bed leaning against the rail at the head of the bed, his arm around Katharine, her head resting over his heart, both fast asleep.

Deciding not to disturb them he turned and headed back down the stairs, intending to head into the kitchen but as he reached the bottom step a gentle knock on the door announced Sarah's arrival. Glancing over his shoulder back up to the sleeping father and daughter he hurried over to the door, opening it he smiled to see Dr. Kenner stood in the hall bearing gifts. His nose twitched at the scent of coffee and doughnuts, he grinned at her and moved aside allowing her to entered the apartment.

She removed her jacket and smiled as she caught him looking up towards the upstairs bedroom, glancing at the empty couch she shot Blair a questioning glance but the young man just shrugged and pointed upstairs. Shaking her head Sarah took the coffee and doughnuts into the kitchen, placed the sweet treats onto a plate and set out the cups of coffee. Rubbing his eyes Blair joined her as they sat at the kitchen table "you help him up there after we left?" she questioned in a hushed voice. He grasped one of the cups of coffee and took a tentative sip before shaking his head "I passed out, only just woke up. Maybe Simon or one of the guys did?"

"Nope, when we left last night Jim was sound asleep on the couch" replied Sarah

"That stubborn, stupid fool!" exclaimed Blair belatedly lowering his voice as he remembered that Jim and Katharine were asleep. "What's he trying to do end up right back in the hospital?" A small hand came to rest on Blair's arm and he turned to find Katharine stood at his side "I'm sorry Uncle Blair, Daddy heard me crying and came upstairs"

"It's not your fault honey" stated Sarah as she stood and moved over to the icebox to pour the child a glass of milk.

Blair hugged Katharine before she sat down at the kitchen table, even as he looked at her he could see the pain she was in, something had happened during the night, he wasn't sure what but he knew the mere fact she had had her father with her had helped. Smiling he watched as she sipped at her milk eyeing the plate of doughnuts, waiting for permission to take one "Help yourself Katharine" he instructed. She looked at him and smiled before she began to search for something, moments later a grin spread across her face as she found what she was looking for and took a big bight of the buttermilk doughnut. Sarah looked at Blair and he looked at her and they both burst out laughing. "I don't know, it must be something genetic with these Ellison's and buttermilk doughnuts" commented Sarah

"Yeah, Buttermilk doughnuts, and the Jags" agreed Blair. Katharine looked at the two adults in confusion but when neither explained she just shrugged and returned her attention to dunking her doughnut in the milk.

Katharine titled her head to one side, then glanced up at Jim's bedroom "Daddies awake" as she spoke she began to dig through the doughnuts again in search of another buttermilk. Blair grinned as he stood "Better leave some of those for your Dad" he stated "He like buttermilk doughnuts as well."

"Really?" questioned Katharine with a grin moments before devouring another one. Blair laughed and shook his head before heading out into the living area and up the stairs to Jim's room. As he reached the top he could see Jim struggling to sit up, the older man was clearly in pain but was determined to move back downstairs "Hey Jim"

"Chief, where's Katharine?"

"She's downstairs with Sarah. If you want any buttermilk doughnuts you'll have to hurry, seems she loves them just as much as you do" he commented as he moved over to the bed to help Jim. As Jim sat up he winced in pain and grasped his chest, he had known he would suffer the consequences of having Katharine sleep on his chest for most of the night, in the morning, but he hadn't expected it to be this bad. Blair was instantly at his side, gently guiding him back down onto the mattress "Maybe you should stay up here today Jim" he suggested but Jim shook his head, as he swatted away Blair's restraining hand. "You know what Sarah said, you're supposed to be resting. And don't think I'm not going to say something about your little climb last night. I understand why you did it but you're a bloody fool for coming up here on your own"

"Chief"

"No Jim, this can wait OK. I know Katharine needed you. Which is why I'm not going to start preaching, just know I'm not happy." Sighing Jim nodded but continued to sit up, when his chest again cried out in objection he bight back the pain. Blair's hand came to rest on his shoulder allowing him to concentrate enough to dial down the pain "Give me a hand downstairs Chief"

"OK, but only because I don't want to spend the entire day chasing up and down the stairs after your sorry butt." Jim smiled as he accepted the crutches Blair handed him, then carefully eased his swore body to the edge of the bed. He was about to stand when Sarah appeared at the top of the stairs "Don't bother getting up Jim, I want to check you over" she stated raising the medical bag she held in her hand. Blair hadn't noticed it before but he had been half-asleep when he had opened the front door.

Jim uttered a groan but remained sat on the edge of the mattress, Blair smiled as he passed Sarah "I'll wait down stairs with Katharine, give me a shout and I'll give him a hand downstairs" she nodded and watched as he vanished downstairs.

Turning to face Jim her smile vanished "What you did last night was stupid Jim, what good would you have done Katharine if you'd taken a header down the stairs?"

"But I didn't"

"Only by sheer luck Jim and you know it!" moving to stand beside him she placed her bag beside him and opened it. "Ok, you know the drill... Strip"

"You get your kicks out of making men strip don't you" commented Jim with a grin. She smiled back "Only with the cute ones Jim, only the cute ones." He raised an eyebrow as he pulled his T-shirt from the day before up and over his head. "And where do I sit in your cute standards?" She didn't answer, just grinned and began to remove items from her bag, once he had removed his shirt she lifted his arm and began to gently but firmly press the bruising on the left side of his rib cage.

He winced as she pressed on a tender area, but besides that gave no further indications of pain, when she had finished checking his ribs she climbed onto the bed moved to kneel behind him so she could check his shoulders and arms.

The bruising and swelling from his being restrained had already started to go away and the cuts where healing to her satisfaction. "Have you been doing your exercises?" she questioned as she got off the bed and removed a syringe from her bag, filling it with a clear liquid. "Yes doctor" he replied sarcastically after all she had been with him most of the day before and so had witnessed Blair putting him through his paces. She smiled as she flicked the body of the syringe removing any air bubbles "sorry force of habit. Ok Jim time to finish the striptease"

"You really enjoy your job don't you" he objected as he shifted to slide his sweat pants off. As he sat wearing nothing but his boxers he watched her as she set the syringe down on the bedside table and began to check his legs. After finishing she stood "OK Jim, lay face down on the bed" he did as instructed but watched her closely, he knew what was about to happen but that didn't mean he had to like it "Is this really necessary?" he questioned as she again flicked the syringe and uncapped the needle. "This will help with the pain and also reduce the swelling, it's either this or you spend an extra couple of weeks on those crutches?" she questioned

"In that case, consider me your personal pin cushion" he replied as he pulled down his boxers to reveal his left butt cheek, after wiping the exposed skin with an antiseptic wipe she gave him the injection "There that didn't hurt now did it?"

"Not as much as it usually does when Nurse Richards gives me a shot" he admitted with a grin. She grinned back pausing a moment to admire his posterior "Do you mind this isn't a peep show" he objected. She grinned as she recapped the needle. "You know Jim, the only reason Nurse Richards injections hurt so much is because you turned her down"

"I what?" he questioned in confusion as he turned onto his back and slowly sat up again. Sarah sat down on the bed beside him "Last summer when you came into the hospital to visit Joel after that shooting"

"I remember it, but I don't remember Nurse Richards making a pass at me" he commented. She laughed and shook her head. "You mean you never heard her ask if you had any plans for the night?"

"I heard her but I thought she was talking to one of the other nurses" he admitted. Sarah patted Jim's knee. "For a detective you're not very observant are you. She was asking you out Jim, she's had a thing for you since the day she transferred in from Phoenix"

"Well how was I supposed to know?" he questioned throwing his hands up into the air. Standing Sarah smiled down at him before heading over to his closet to get him a change of clothes. "By being a little more observant Jim. The nursing staff fights over the opportunity to looking after you when you come in, but only until you return of consciousness I might add. After you wake up they all run for the hills. Nurse Richards saw that one of the other nurses was building up the courage to ask you out. So she thought she should better jump in while she had the chance" turning with a change of clothes in her hand she tossed them onto the bed at his side "I guess she's using your butt as her means of revenge for being ignored by you"

"Maybe I should send her some flowers or something, apologise cause I'm not sure my butt can take any more of her revenge" he admitted as he slipped the clean t-shirt over his head. He held up the shorts she had given him and looked at her questioningly "Shorts?"

"I need to redress that leg Jim, but I'd rather do it downstairs and I didn't think you'd appreciate lowering your pants with Katharine downstairs" she explained, he nodded his agreement and pulled them on.

Sarah helped him to his feet as she called out to Blair "He's ready to come downstairs Blair" moments later the younger man appeared and took up a position in front of Jim as he slowly and carefully began to descend the stairs. Each step was poor agony for him, it hadn't seemed that bad going up but he knew it had probably been worse but he had been so focused on reaching Katharine he had blotted the pain out. His foot slipped on the second to last step, jarring his wounded leg, his arms trembled as he closed his eyes against the pain. If it hadn't been for Blair and Sarah he was certain he would have ended up in a heap at the bottom of the stairs, as it was he leaned heavily on Blair as the waves of pain radiated throughout his entire body. "Daddy?" questioned Katharine in concern as she stood over by the couch, he forced a smile onto his face and opened his eyes "I'm OK munch kin, just taking a breather"

"I've made up the couch again" she stated ignoring his obvious lie. He smiled his thanks and after several deep breaths hopped down the last of the stairs and across to the couch. As he lowered himself onto the makeshift bed he heard both Blair and Sarah curse "I'll get your bag Aunty Sarah" called Katharine as she ran across the room and up the stairs. Confused Jim looked at them then following their gaze he could see the slow discolouration forming on the bandage around his knee. "Oops"

"Oops! Oops! Is that all you have to say for yourself Jim!" exclaimed Blair

"It might not be to bad Blair, he didn't fall so he may have just pulled a stitch or two"

"Chief it's not as though I did it deliberately" muttered Jim

"You never do Jim, you just seem to neglect your own well being when someone else needs you." Jim sighed and glanced at Katharine who was just coming down the stairs to rejoin them, as she set the medical bag down on the coffee table he looked at Blair and stated in a low voice. "If I have to tear open every stitch to get to Katharine when she needs me I'm going to do it Chief. Now I know you worry about me and I honestly do appreciate it, but you have to understand Katharine and you will always come first as far as I'm concerned." Blair was about to say something when Sarah touched his shoulder "Blair, it doesn't matter what you say it's not going to change Jim. It's his nature to protect, so he's naturally going to be very protective of his daughter and his friends. That's not going to change anytime soon so I wouldn't waste your breath"

"You're right, I'm sorry Jim. I shouldn't have gone off like that"

"Don't worry about it Chief" replied Jim smiling as Katharine sat at his side and hugged him, she had been distressed to hear the anger in Blair's voice but as she had listened to what he had been saying she had quickly realised it was anger born of worry.

When Sarah had redressed Jim's knee and they had all eaten their breakfast she had to leave, she was working at the hospital in the ER for most of the day but promised to visit them on her way home later that day. Blair escorted her to the door while Katharine cleared the table, the young girl had insisted in helping with the chores and Blair had been grateful of the assistance. "So what are we going to do today?" questioned Blair as he and Katharine joined Jim in the living area. Despite his minor mishap earlier Sarah had said it would be alright for him to get out of the house today, his leg wound was healing well and he had only pulled the stick not torn it. Smiling Jim looked at Katharine and Blair "Get me the phone Chief I have an idea." Blair did as instructed without question, handing the phone to Jim he settled down beside Katharine again and waited to find out what exactly it was the Sentinel had planned for them.

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Jim didn't tell them were they where going, whenever they asked he would just tell them it was a surprise. As Blair drove Jim gave him directions, it was only when they left the city of Cascade and headed out into the country did Blair begin to suspect where they were going. Looking over at Jim he grinned and shook his head. "You know Jim, your nothing but a big softy inside aren't you" he commented and laughed as Jim shot him a stern glance. Katharine who was sat in the back looked at the two men in front of her and smiled, "Where are we going Uncle Blair?" she questioned but Blair refused to tell her "It's your Dad's surprise honey, I'm not going to ruin it for you"

"Ah please Uncle Blair it won't ruin it honest"

"Katharine we're almost there, just try to be a little more patient" instructed Jim, as Blair drove the car towards their destination.

Ten minutes later Katharine sat forward and wrapped her arms around her fathers neck as Blair pulled up outside the stables. The stables were owned by an old Army buddy of Jim's, as they got out of the car they were met by a tall black man and his wife "Hey Jimmy, it's about time you showed up"

"Hey Kent, how are you doing?"

"Better than you by the looks of it Jimmy, what on earth happened to you?" Jim smiled and shook his head "I'll explain later Kent, did you manage to get everything set up for us?"

"Of course! You gonna be a gentleman and make the introductions then?" questioned Kent with a smile. Jim smiled back as he glanced at Blair and his daughter. "You know me Kent, ever the gentleman" Kent laughed and shook his head. "Blair Sandburg, my friend and partner, Kent Mitchell and his wife Sally"

"Partner?" Questioned Sally as she shook Blair's hand "Kent you never told me Jimmy was in the police force now"

"I didn't know honey" he admitted "it's not as thought Jimmy has called me lately" there was something in his voice that was close to disapproval. Jim shrugged "You know what the job is like Kent, I only got out a few years ago." Kent nodded as he glanced at Katharine he had seen the articles about Jim being found in Peru and had suspected it wouldn't be long before the younger man had gotten out of the Army, he would never had suspected him of joining the local police force though. "And who's this beautiful young lady?" questioned Kent's wife as she held her hand out to her. Katharine shied away, putting her father between herself and the strangers, Jim smiled as he felt her hands come around his waste to hug him from behind. "This beautiful but shy one is my daughter Katharine"

"Your daughter, but she looks to be about 8" commented Kent in surprise. Jim nodded, sadness flashing within his eyes as he said "She's Rebecca's daughter." Kent and his wife Sally had known Rebecca, they had always thought that Jim and Rebecca made a good couple and so had both been heartbroken when Rebecca had visited them to inform them Jim was missing presumed dead. As silence befell the group Blair glanced at Jim and could see the sadness on his face. "So what are you planning to do with yourself while Kat and I have some fun?" he questioned grinning at Katharine

"Kat?" Questioned Jim

"Hey you have your nickname for her, I'll have mine thank you" replied Blair with a grin. Jim smiled and nodded his approval "I thought Kent, Sally and I could do some catching up" he replied

"Sorry Jim, I'll be taking them out"

"Guess it's just you and me Jimmy, you don't mind, do you?"

"Of course not Sally, if I remember correctly you make killer butter biscuits" a grin spread across his face as she smiled and shook her head. Kent hugged his wife "Still does Jimmy, and funnily enough she was up half the night baking some"

"You shouldn't have gone to any bother on our account Sally"

"And why on earth not, it's not as though we get to see you all that often!"

"Anyway shall we get this show on the road" as he spoke Kent looked to Blair and Katharine, the little girl was still hiding behind her father and he wondered why Rebecca hadn't told them she was pregnant.

Blair held out his hand for Katharine, she hesitated for a moment looking up at Jim. "It's OK you go ahead, I want to talk to Sally" he instructed. Before Katharine left her father she hugged him tightly then accepted Blair's hand. With a smile and an excited bounce in his step Blair led Katharine down the path following Kent to the stables.

Sally moved to stand at Jim's side as they watched them, her hand went around his back and he looked down at her "How are you really Jim, and don't give me any of that cock and bull about being fine"

"You always could see right through me couldn't you" commented Jim as Blair and Katharine vanished from sight and he turned to look at his long lost friend. She smiled up at him and gently rubbed his back. "Come on let's go inside, we can talk in the kitchen."

When Katharine heard the horses she looked at Blair and grinned, then raced forward to the stables. Blair grinned and followed her walking at Kent's side. "So you and Jim are Army buddies?"

"Yeah, met about ten years ago. To be completely honest Jim saved my butt, we became good friends after that, and he was even the best man at my wedding"

"Did you know Rebecca?"

"Yeah, she was a beautiful woman in very sense of the word. There was something about her that instantly put you at ease... a bit like you" he commented with a grin. Blair smiled back as they reached the stables and found Katharine stood with one of the stable hands, gently stroking a fowl.

Carefully lowering himself down into a chair at the kitchen table Jim watched as Sally moved around the kitchen preparing the evening meal. "So Jimmy what's wrong?" she questioned as she placed a mug of coffee in front of him and finally sat down opposite him. He looked at her with questioning eyes. "Why would anything be wrong?"

"Come off it Jimmy, you might be able to hide your emotions from most people but those who know you like Kent, Blair and myself. We can see right through that stoic expression of yours." He sighed and looked down into his coffee mug, he hadn't intended to discuss this with Sally all he had wanted today was to have a nice quiet day were he could enjoy being with his daughter "Did you know Rebecca died?"

"I'm so sorry Jim, it must have been hard raising Katharine on your own, but you seem to have coped she's a great little girl"

"I wish I could take the credit. I didn't even know she existed till a few days ago"

"Rebecca never told you she was pregnant?"

"She didn't have the chance, I don't think she knew when I left for Peru and then after the military declared me dead..." Sally reached across the table and placed her hand on Jim's. "She died give birth to Katharine, her grandmother looked after her until she was 18 months old, and then she died. After that she ended up in the orphanage"

"How did you find her?" she questioned her hand still on his. He sighed and looked up at her. "It was an accident. Some gunmen took over a school and I went in to free the hostages, she was one of them. We seemed to click the instant we met, it was as if I knew she was a part of me... Does that make any sense?"

"Believe me Jimmy it does, I have four of my own I can understand how you felt"

"While I was in the hospital Blair and Simon, my Captain, did some checking into Katharine for me. That's when they found out, Rebecca's grandmother had put me down as the father, but as they thought I was dead they never bothered to try and contact me, not even after I returned."

"They probably didn't think it was the same James Ellison" she commented, he smiled as he took a sip of his coffee. "Katharine seems very attacked to you despite only knowing you a few days."

"Yeah, she's accepted everything in her stride, she even admitted that the night after the hostage situation she wished that I was her daddy"

"Well I guess she got her wish then didn't she" commented Sally with a smile, but Jim didn't. He just looked up at her with such forlorn eyes she immediately knew something was seriously wrong "Jimmy?"

"I wish we had more time together" he commented. Adding in a low whisper "I only hope that my wish comes true"

"What do you mean Jimmy, your not ill are you?" She questioned instantly concerned. He shook his head. "It's Katharine"

"What?"

"She's dying Sally and there isn't a damned thing I can do to save her. I found her in time to watch her die" even before he had finished speaking Sally was to her feet and at his side, pulling him to her so she could hold him. His arm went around her but he couldn't cry not now, not today, today was the day he wanted to forget about his daughters illness. "I'm sorry Jimmy, is there anything we can do for you and Katharine?"

"No, there's nothing that can be done. We've got a couple of weeks, three at the most and I want to make sure they are the best three weeks of her short life. I want her to know the even though I wasn't around when she was little that I do love her and that isn't going to change"

"She knows that Jimmy, believe me you can see it in her face, she knows she is loved." He hugged her for a moment then released her, she stood for a moment looking down at him, could see the silent resolve on his face and knew that the next three weeks were going to be precious not only to Katharine but to Jim and Blair as well.

When Blair, Kent and Katharine returned to the house they found Jim sat at the kitchen table peeling potatoes. "Have fun?" he questioned as both Katharine and Blair dropped down into the seats opposite him. "That was great Dad! Uncle Kent has loads of horses, he even let us go riding. We saw all sorts of creatures, it was so cool!"

"I'm glad you enjoyed it Katharine, what about you Chief you have a good day?"

"I think Kat about covered it" he replied grinning. Jim smiled back and watched as Sandburg tried to pinch a biscuit from the plate on the table, before he knew what had happened the biscuit had been removed from his hand, said hand had been slapped and the entire plate had vanished.

Katharine giggled and Jim smiled as Blair sat rubbing the back of his hand and looking at the spot the plate had occupied moments before "Those are for later Blair Sandburg if your hungry you can have this" stated Sally as she handed him a carrot. Blair took the carrot and glanced at Katharine who was still giggling "Thieves never prosper"

"I thought that was cheaters Chief?" questioned Jim smiling. Blair shrugged before taking a bight of his carrot "Whatever"

"Its bad manors to talk with your mouth full Uncle Blair"

"Quiet right Katharine" agreed Kent as he sat down beside Jim at the table. Passing both Blair and Katharine a glass of lemonade he turned to look at Jim "You and Sally been catching up?" he questioned

"Oh yes dear, Jim was telling about all the stunts you tried to impress the ladies with " replied Sally winking at Jim who smiled gratefully back at her. Kent groaned and looked at his wife. "What ladies honey, you know what an active imagination Jimmy has." Blair almost spat out his lemonade as he looked at Kent "Jim with an active imagination?" he questioned as though it was a foreign concept. Kent grinned but turned his smile back to his wife stating as he dropped to one knee in front of her, taking her hand in his and kissing it. "There is no lady finer than you"

"Behaviour yourself, we have guests!" commented Sally as she removed her hand from Kent's and returned her attention to the vegetables. Grinning Kent stood and after quickly hugging Sally returned to his seat at the table with Jim.

After they had eaten and the night had began to draw in Jim and Blair made their excuses, the excitement of the day had clearly been too much for Katharine as she had fallen asleep on Jim's knee about an hour after they had eaten, allowing the adults to talk. Jim's fingers gently brushed across Katharine's face as she slept, her head resting on his chest in the same position it had the night before. He couldn't hold back the sorrowful sigh that filled him, when he felt a hand come to rest on his shoulder he looked up expecting it to be Blair but was surprised to find Kent stood beside him. "Sally told me Jim, I want you to know. If there is anything we can do just call"

"I know, and thank you Kent... For everything"

"It was our pleasure we don't get to see you as often as we would like, your all welcome back at anytime." The concern and compassion in Kent's voice and Sally's teary eyes was evident to both Jim and Blair, they knew they would be back weather Katharine would be with them was something neither wanted to think about. Jim smiled and nodded then looked down at his sleeping daughter "I think it's time we headed out." Blair nodded and stood moving to Jim's side to take Katharine from her, but Kent lay his hand on the younger man's shoulder "Jim do you mind if I take her out to the car?"

"Of course not Kent" replied Jim with a grateful smile. Jims gaze never wavered as he watched Kent gently lift Katharine into his arms. She stirred, opening her eyes to look up at who had taken her from her father, seeing it was Kent she smiled "I'm a wake, I'll walk" she stated already wiggling out of his arms. Kent smiled and lowered her to the floor. "You sure, I don't mind carrying you to the car?" she nodded and slipped her hand into Jim's an easy smile upon her face. It was only then that Jim realised just as Blair's heartbeat calmed him, his heartbeat calmed Katharine, making her feel safe and secure. He squeezed her hand as she looked up to him "Ready to go home much kin?"

"Home is wherever you and Uncle Blair are Dad" she stated surprising not only Jim but Blair as well who hurried out of the room before anyone could see his tears.

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Continued in Chapter 3...