NYPD Blue Fanfiction

Loweonthego's Fanfic

Endlessly

Chapter 4

SCENE 31: Late Morning, TJ's Tavern. A handful of patrons sit at the bar and in the booths. Diane Russell enters the bar and looks around, in search of someone familiar. She spots him at the bar and heads in his direction. 

DIANE: Andy, I was afraid I was going to find you here. 

ANDY: Oh yeah. (He turns to look at her then turns back to the bar.) Why don't you have a seat? You're going to get tired standing. 

DIANE: Come on Andy; let's get out of here. We can go and talk. 

ANDY: No, I'm fine, right here. 

Diane pulls a stool up next to Andy and takes a seat. The bartender walks up to Diane to take her drink order, which she waives off. 

DIANE: I heard what happened to Connie. Andy, you need to be strong. They'll find her...and you'll need to be there for her. 

ANDY: (The bartender places a Whiskey in front of him.) Diane, I know you mean well but don't waste your time here. 

DIANE: If you're not going to help yourself, then be there for Connie....think about Theo and Michelle. 

ANDY: (He can't face Diane right now. Tears are welling up in his eyes.) I can't take any more loss…. (His voice begins to break.) 

DIANE: I know you've had some hard times in the past.....but look at your life today, it's good. They're going to bring Connie back....she's going to need you. Don't mess that up, not when you have come this far…and your life is so good. 

Andy throws down some cash on the bar and begins to walk out. Diane follows him out of the bar onto the sidewalk. 

ANDY: (He turns around to face Diane.) I'm going home. 

DIANE: (She walks closer to Andy and places her hand on his shoulder.) You've been there for me when I needed you; let me be there for you. 

ANDY: I need to do this on my own.  

DIANE: (Hugging him tightly.) I'll be in touch soon. But you know, you can call me anytime. You've got my number. Reach out, Andy....Reach out. 

Andy heads towards the apartment a short walk away. Diane watches as he heads down the block and out of view. She takes her cell phone from her purse and dials. 

DIANE: John, it's Diane. I just talked to Andy; he's leaving the bar...on his way home. You going to be around the squad for a few minutes? I'm going to stop by. 

Scene fades out as Diane goes to her car - driving off to meet with John Clark at the 15th. 

 

SCENE 32: Late afternoon. Andy and Connie's apartment. Andy is dozing on the sofa - passed out from exhaustion. The phone rings. 

ANDY: Sipowicz. 

MAN'S VOICE: Sip-o-wicz...you want to get your lady back.....go to Morningside Park at 8:00. 

ANDY: I want to talk to her. Put Connie on the phone. 

There is a silence for a moment then Andy hears someone picking up the phone. 

CONNIE: (In a weak and groggy voice.) Andy.... 

ANDY: Connie, you ok? 

CONNIE: I'm all right.... 

ANDY: I'm going to get you out of there. 

CONNIE: Andy, don't. They will kill you. 

ANDY: Connie...you know ...I love you... 

The line goes dead. Andy drops the phone on the sofa and looks at his watch. He's got a few hours before his rendezvous...time to plan, time to prepare. 

SCENE 33: Late afternoon. 15th Precinct. Medavoy and Baldwin return to the squad room. PAA John hands them messages before they go to their desks. 

MEDAVOY: (Looking over his messages.) Oh, man. This is it. I know it. 

BALDWIN: What? 

MEDAVOY: Remember the Money T case, last fall? Andy really pissed him off. He got 30 years when then case went Federal. I requested some information earlier...to see where he was now. He's out. 

BALDWIN: Out? How'd that happen? 

MEDAVOY: (Looking over the message.) Apparently the Feds, they messed up the case, he got released because of a wrong code on the case filing. 

BALDWIN: This could be the break we need.  

Baldwin and Medavoy walk into Lt. Thomason's office and update him on their finding

ANDY: (Sarcastically.) You better tell the driver to slow down or you're going to get pulled over for speeding. 

MAN #1: (Punching Andy in the stomach again...a little harder.) I guess you didn't hear me the first time pig. 

The car pulls to a stop in an alley. The two men in the back seat and Andy get out. Another man in the alley goes to Andy and checks for a weapon - removing his service revolver from its holster. Two men grab Andy’s arms and they hustle him inside the back of the restaurant where we saw Connie earlier. The three of them enter a private room and seat Andy in a chair. A man walks in behind them. 

ANDY: I should’ a known. 

MONEY T: The big man speaks....but you aren't so bad without all your friends to back you up. 

ANDY: Where is she? 

MONEY T: No need to rush, she ain't going nowhere. I got a question for you anyway....what does a hot lady like her see in an old washed up pig like you? 

ANDY: (His anger raging, he begins to lunge for Money T but is stopped by one of the thugs from the car.) What do you want from me?  

MONEY T: You messed up my operation, cost me lots of money. But more importantly, you disrespected my lady......I don't like that. 

ANDY: (Sarcastically.) Sorry. 

MONEY T: "Sorry," that ain't worth shit. 

There is a knock at the door and a third man enters, goes to Money T and whispers something into his ear, then leaves. 

MONEY T: You want to see her? (He turns to face the two men standing beside the seated Andy.) Take him in there. I got some business to attend to. 

The two men who brought him to the location lead Andy down the hall. They unlock a door and push Andy into the room, closing the door. Andy hears the door lock as his eyes dart around the small storage room. Where is she? Where is Connie? 

Suddenly he notices Connie laying on the floor in a fetal position. He races to her lifeless body. 

ANDY: (Kneeling over her, Andy picks Connie up and cradles her in his arms.) Connie...Connie, can you hear me? 

Andy feels for a pulse and sees that she is breathing. He sits down on the floor and rocks her gently. He softly brushes her hair from her face, revealing a gash on her forehead - closed with dried blood. Andy carefully kisses the deep bruise on her chin. Connie's blouse was ripped and in disarray and Andy carefully pulled it back together and around her shoulders. 

ANDY: (Speaking softly in Connie's ear.) You're going to be all right. I'm going to get you out of here. (He kisses her forehead ever so softly.) I love you Connie, I love you...don't you leave me. 

CONNIE: (Her eyes still closed, she begins to stir slightly. Her voice is nothing more than a whisper.) Andy.. 

ANDY: Be still, be quiet. Don't worry; I'll get you out of here. 

Andy's eyes scan the room. He's got to get her out of this place now. He looks at the windows and considers them to be his only hope. With great care, Andy places Connie back down on the floor and leans over her. 

ANDY: (Speaking to Connie, who is in a semi-conscious state.) Stay here, I'm going to get us out of here. I'm going to bring you home, where you belong. 

Andy goes to the window and without success, tries to pry the bars open. He looks around the room for anything to use to possibly pry the bars apart. Then he hears someone unlocking the door. Andy sees a broom in the corner by the door grabs it to use as a weapon. The door opens and Money T walks into the room. Andy grabs the broom handle and stabs it into Money T's chest; the surprise attack knocks him to the floor. A 9mm handgun slides across the floor after being dropped by the falling Money T. Andy falls on top of Money T and pummels his fists on Money T's face. The two men grapple, fighting across the floor. Money T gets the upper hand and levels Andy with a hard right....sending Andy sprawling on the floor, momentarily loosing his breath. Money T stands triumphantly above Andy and pulls a second hand gun from his shoulder holster. 

MONEY T: (Aiming his hand gun on Andy. He quietly laughs as he speaks.) Look at the big, bad cop now. You're not so bad now, are you? (Looking over at Connie on the floor.) Don’t worry about her. I’m going to take real good care of her… 

ANDY: You let her go, she never did anything to harm you. You wanted me....you got me. 

MONEY T: (Turning to aim his hand gun on Connie.) Bang bang....one dead pig, (Turning the gun towards Andy.) bang bang....another dead pig. You want her to live....you gotta beg. Beg for her life, her sorry ass life. 

ANDY: I beg of you, please don't hurt her. Let her go. Don't hurt her...(Becoming too emotional to speak, he collapses on the floor.) 

Money T quickly turns and fires several rounds in Connie’s direction, then turns back to Andy, keeping his weapon aimed on him. 

MONEY T: Watch her die....look at her. (Andy looks towards Connie and looks back at Money T.) Now it's your turn. 

Money T fires two rounds into Andy and he collapses. Money T then hears a voice that catches him by surprise and he turns to face the voice. 

CONNIE: (Standing and aiming the earlier discarded hand gun directly at Money T.) You're dead asshole.  

Connie unloads the 9mm pistol into Money T and he falls to the floor. She then goes to Andy, who has been hit and is unconscious on the floor, all the while keeping the gun on Money T. 

CONNIE: (Cradling his head in her lap.) Andy...talk to me. Andy.... 

The door suddenly crashes in and John Clark, Diane Russell and several uniformed officers rush in with weapons drawn. 

CONNIE: He's been hit. We need a bus. 

DIANE: (Kneeling by Connie and Andy.) How are you Connie? 

CONNIE: Don't worry about me...Andy needs help. 

Within moments the area is swarming with police. Baldwin, Greg, Mary Franco and Rita have all arrived as well as paramedics, who begin to work on Andy. Within moments Lt. Thomason and Lt. Rodriquez arrive on the scene. Rodriguez is moving gingerly around and it is apparent he is still recovering from his recent wounds. 

RODRIQUEZ: (Approaching Connie.) You need to let the EMTs check you out. 

CONNIE: Boss, I'll be fine. I'd rather stay with Andy. 

Andy begins to moan in pain as he is lifted onto the stretcher to be taken to the ambulance. Rodriquez and John Clark walk over to the stretcher. John takes Andy's hand and squeezes it tightly. 

JOHN: Hang in there Andy. You're going to be ok....and we got Connie back, she's fine. 

RODRIGUEZ: Andy, I'm going to tell you the same thing you told me when I was shot. If you wanted some vacation you should have just put in for it.  

Andy gives the Lieutenant a slight laugh and grimaces in pain. Rita walks over and joins Connie, putting her arm around her as they follow the paramedics out with Andy for the drive to the hospital. 

RITA: Connie, are you ok? 

CONNIE: I'll be fine...don't worry about me. 

RITA: You sure? 

CONNIE: I have a headache....that's about all. I'm going to be ok. 

RITA: (Giving her a hug.) It's good to have you back partner. 

Connie walks out with the EMTs and Andy and heads to the hospital in the ambulance. Back at the scene Money T is being attended to by the EMTs. He is unconscious. Some of the detectives mill around while Crime Scene begins to look over the area. Most of the detectives from the 15th Precinct have already headed out for the hospital. 

SCENE #35 - Late Night. Hospital Emergency Room. Andy and Connie have just arrived with the ambulance crew. Andy has been taken immediately into an examination room. Connie has followed him into the room. Nurses are cutting off the remainder of his shirt to get to the wound in his left shoulder. 

CONNIE: (Holding Andy's hand.) Andy, you're going to be all right, you hear me? 

ANDY: You ok? 

CONNIE: I'm going to be fine. We need to focus on you right now. 

ANDY: (His voice cracking.) I thought I was going to loose you... 

CONNIE: I'm not going anywhere, you hear me. (She leans over an softly kisses him on the lips.) 

DOCTOR: (To Connie.) We're going to be taking Andy up to the OR now to get the bullet out and take care of these wounds. I'll stop in the waiting area when we're finished and let you know how it goes. 

Diane Russell enters the examination area and watches as Connie gives Andy a kiss on the forehead before he is wheeled off to the Operating Room. Then she walks over to Connie. 

DIANE: (Placing her arm around Connie.) We need to get you looked at. 

CONNIE: I'm ok. 

DIANE: You need to get that cut on your forehead cleaned up. We'll get the doctor to look at it. Come on. 

The two walk out of the room and down the hall. A nurse directs them to an examination area and they enter, with Connie taking a seat on the bed. The nurse begins to check Connie's vitals and draws some blood. 

NURSE: You've got quite a bit of dried blood on your blouse. How about if I get you a scrub top to wear?  

CONNIE: Thanks. 

The nurse hands the scrub top to Connie and leaves the room. As Connie takes off her bloodied blouse, Diane notices several bruises along her torso. 

DIANE: Connie, I'm sorry, but I have to ask you this, were you assaulted….sexually assaulted? 

CONNIE: No. 

DIANE: You can tell me if you were. You know you can talk to me. 

CONNIE: I wasn't. 

The doctor walks in to look at the cut on Connie's forehead and some of the other smaller injuries on her body. Diane takes a moment to go out and update the arriving detectives. 

BALDWIN: How did you and John know where to find Connie? 

DIANE: We were watching Andy's apartment. We followed Andy when he went out and some of Money T's guys grabbed him up. How did you guys get there so quick? 

BALDWIN: This kid named Jamar; he came in and told us where Connie was being held. He'd been watching Connie for the guy who grabbed her. 

Sgt. James Martinez enters the waiting area and joins Diane and Baldwin. 

MARTINEZ: Diane, it's great to see you again. How you been? 

DIANE: Terrific. Things are going really well for me now. How about you? 

MARTINEZ: Gina and the kids are fine. They keep me busy, when they don't, work does. (Looking around the waiting area.) Where's Greg? 

BALDWIN: Gone for some coffee. 

MARTINEZ: I should have known. 

Martinez and Baldwin join the other detectives and wait for news on Andy's condition. Diane returns to Connie's examination room. 

DIANE: You've got a big support group out there for you. Everyone's here. 

CONNIE: I don't think I want to see anyone right now. (She turns to the doctor who has been putting some stitches in her forehead wound.) Can I wait in here until Andy is out of surgery? 

DOCTOR: I don't see why not. It's an unusually quiet night. 

There is a knock at the door then the door opens slowly. Lt. Rodriguez and Lt. Thomason enter the room. 

RODRIGUEZ: Connie, how are you? 

CONNIE: I'm going to be ok. How are you? 

RODRIGUEZ: Stronger every day. 

THOMASON: Detective, I know you've just had a difficult couple of days but we're going to have to have you talk to you about what has happened. 

CONNIE: I know.  

THOMASON: We can get it over with now, if you want.  

CONNIE: Yeah, I would. (Turning to Diane.) I want to be there for Andy when his surgery is over. 

Thomason goes to inform the detectives working this case to go in and interview Connie. 

RODRIGUEZ: Connie, I wanted you to know, they know about the marriage. 

CONNIE: OK, thanks for the heads up. 

RODRIGUEZ: Connie, I'm happy for you....and Andy. 

Thomason and several IAB Detectives enter to talk with Connie. Rodriguez and Diane Russell exit the examination room and join the other detectives seated in the waiting area. 

 

SCENE 36: Morning. Hospital Room. Connie is standing at the window watching the day come to life in the city. Andy is sleeping in his hospital bed when a nurse enters to check the IV hooked up to his arm. Andy begins to stir as the nurse leans over the bed to hang the new IV bag. 

NURSE: I'm sorry Mr. Sipowicz; I didn't mean to wake you. 

CONNIE: (Walking to the side of Andy's bed and taking his hand.) Hey, how are you feeling? 

ANDY: I’m great....are you ok? 

CONNIE: Don't worry about me. I'm just going to have a nice little scar on my forehead...to match the scar on your shoulder. 

ANDY: (Seriously.) Really, are you ok? 

CONNIE: (Leaning over to give him a soft kiss on the forehead.) I'm fine...really. 

ANDY: (Half-heartedly laughing.) What did they say about me? Will I be able to bowl again? 

CONNIE: You’re going to be fine. They removed the bullet from your shoulder and it didn't cause any damage. You were grazed by another bullet, but it didn't cause any damage. You were lucky. 

ANDY: We were both lucky. (His voice becomes very emotional.) I was afraid I was never going to see you again.  

CONNIE: (Sitting on the side of the bed and tightly squeezing Andy's hand. Her voice finally starts to reflect the emotional trauma she has been through over the past few days.) They told me they were going to kill me.....and you...I couldn't... 

Connie finally releases the tears that have been building up over the past few days. She takes a seat by the bed and quietly cries with her head in her hands. Andy reaches out and gently touches her arm. 

ANDY: Connie, do you know where they put my pants? 

CONNIE: No. You in a hurry to go somewhere? 

ANDY: Go look in the closet. Maybe they're there. 

CONNIE: You can't get dressed yet... 

ANDY: (Adamantly.) Go see if my pants are there....please. 

Connie walks over to the closet and finds Andy's pants hanging inside. She takes them out and holds them in the air. 

CONNIE: They're here, will you rest now? 

ANDY: Bring them here for a second. 

CONNIE: (Handing them to Andy.) You're crazy....It must be the medicine talking. 

Andy takes the pants and reaches into the pocket. It's still there... 

ANDY: (Taking the wedding ring out of the pocket, he takes Connie's hand in his and begins to place the ring on her finger.) This is back where it should be.  

CONNIE: (Reaching over and kissing him on the lips.) Andy, I love you. 

ANDY: I love you.... 

A doctor enters the room and Andy and Connie pull out of their embrace.  

DOCTOR: I'm glad to see you’re doing better than the last time I saw you.....I'm Dr. Meyers, I was your surgeon last night Mr. Sipowicz. 

ANDY: Nice to meet you...this is my wife, Connie. 

Connie smiles and realizes this is the first time Andy is introducing her as his wife. She likes hearing him say this..."my wife." 

DOCTOR: So Andy, how are you feeling? 

ANDY: (Looking Connie in the eyes.) I've never been better. 

DOCTOR: (Flipping over the medical chart.) I tell you what...if you're up and walking around with ease by the end of the day...we'll send you home in the morning. How does that sound? 

ANDY: Sounds good. 

DOCTOR: I'll get the nurse in here and see about getting you up and moving. Are you hungry? 

ANDY: A little. 

DOCTOR: We'll get rid of the IV before lunch....if you're still improving. 

ANDY: Sounds like a deal. 

DOCTOR: All right then. I will check back to see how you're doing later today.  

The doctor leaves the room and Connie moves back to the chair by the bed. 

ANDY: You have to be tired. You need to get some rest. 

CONNIE: I'll have plenty of time to rest when we get home. 

There is a knock at the door and the door slowly opens. 

DIANE: (Walking in.) Andy, how are you doing? 

ANDY: Better. 

DIANE: How about you Connie? How are you feeling? 

CONNIE: I'm a little tired but, otherwise, I feel pretty good.  

A nurse enters the room. 

NURSE: Good morning everyone. I hate to break up the party but I need to take some blood from our patient here and check his vital signs, then change his dressing. If you don't mind...I think we could use some privacy. 

ANDY: (Laughing.) She sounds like she means business. 

DIANE: Come on Connie, why don't we go talk in the lounge. 

CONNIE: (Looking back at Andy.) I'll be right back. 

Connie and Diane walk out into the hallway. 

DIANE: How are you really doing Connie? 

CONNIE: I'm ok, like I said, I'm just tired. 

DIANE: You need to get some rest. You've just experienced a horrendous couple of days.  

CONNIE: I'll be ok. I'm not leaving Andy. 

DIANE: Why don't you see if there is a bed you can get some rest on around here? Connie, you are wearing yourself out. You need to get rest....if not for yourself, for Andy and the kids. 

CONNIE: I will.  

DIANE: And Connie, when you're ready to talk... 

CONNIE: (Interrupting Diane mid-sentence.) I know, Diane, I know. The problem is I just don't remember much. (Becoming quiet.) Maybe that's a blessing. The drugs, they made it all just a blur. 

DIANE: You know Andy can be incredibly understanding. He love

The nurse exits Andy's room and walks down the hall. 

DIANE: Why don't we let Andy get some rest? Let's get some coffee, take a walk outside, it's nice out. 

CONNIE: I could use some fresh air, sounds good. 

SCENE 37: Late Morning. Connie and Andy’s apartment. Andy has been released from the hospital and he and Connie have just returned home. Andy’s feeling pretty well, except for some slight discomfort in his shoulder. The doctor immobilized the arm in a sling, hoping that would ease the discomfort. Upon returning home, Andy looks around the apartment and realizes just how happy and lucky they both are to be home safe. Connie heads for the kitchen with one of the flower arrangements Andy had received this morning in the hospital. Andy takes a seat on the sofa. Connie joins him moments later. 

ANDY: It’s good to be home….with you here next to me. 

CONNIE: Yeah, it is. 

Connie pulls a little closer to Andy and gently rests her head on his chest. 

ANDY: It’s really quiet here without the kids around. 

CONNIE: I called Andrea from the hospital. Katie will bring Theo into the city tomorrow morning in time for his summer camp. Andrea will bring them home tomorrow night. 

ANDY: Good, we need this time alone, some quiet. We can get caught up on our rest. 

CONNIE: (Taking his hand in hers.) Are you tired?  

ANDY: I’m ok. (There is a few moments of silence without either of them speaking. Andy is gently running his hand through Connie’s hair as she continues to rest her head on his chest.) You know, I thought I had lost you. Every time I’ve had something good in my life, it’s been taken away….and I thought you had been taken away from me. (Andy takes a deep breath, reflecting on the past few days.) I didn’t think I could keep going. I was afraid of what they might have done to you. I didn’t want to face the future alone, without you…I went to the bar down the block and ordered my old favorite, whiskey on the rocks. But I couldn’t do it. All I could think about was the good you have brought to me and to our future. Everywhere I looked, I saw you, your face. I knew even if I had lost you, I had to carry on for Theo and Michelle - to be there for them. I never did take a drink….I just held the glass…I couldn’t do it. You’ve made me want to live a better life.  

Andy takes a moment and thinks about the events of the past few days. He realizes Connie hasn’t said anything and looks down at her face to see she has quietly fallen asleep. Andy knows she has been through quite an ordeal and needs the sleep desperately. He couldn’t talk her into going home while he was at the hospital…she never left his side. She must have been running on pure adrenaline. Andy settled in on the sofa and let Connie continue to sleep. He was perfectly content to pass the time like this…with the woman he loved right in his arms. 

SCENE 38: The next day, late afternoon. Andrea has just dropped the kids off at the apartment and Connie and Andy have ordered out pizza for the whole gang. Connie is happily lavishing affection on Michelle while Andy is explaining his patched up shoulder to Theo - who thinks it’s all very exciting. 

THEO: Did you shoot them back?  

ANDY: No, Theo. I didn’t shoot the man. 

THEO: Does it hurt? 

ANDY: I’m a little sore. 

THEO: How many times did you get shot? 

ANDY: Just twice. The doctor operated on me to get the bullet out and I’m all better now. 

THEO: That’s cool. Did you get to keep the bullet Daddy? 

ANDY: No, Theo, I didn’t want the bullet. 

THEO: You were brave weren’t you?  

ANDY: Yeah, I guess.  

THEO: Why didn’t you kill the bad guy? 

ANDY: Because it’s better to arrest the bad guys and let them go to trial and serve time in prison paying for their crimes. (Looking over at Connie who has been listening to the conversation.) Why don’t you go set the table for dinner? That way, when the pizza arrives we’ll be ready. 

THEO: (Leaning over to hug Andy.) I’m glad you’re a brave policeman. 

The pizza arrives and Andy, Connie and Theo enjoy some time at the dinner table, while Michelle watches them from her child’s seat. Connie looks over and catches Andy watching her. She quietly places her hand on his and gives him a loving and knowing look. They’ve got a wonderful family and they both know how close they came to loosing it all. After dinner is finished, Theo helps Connie wash the dishes and Andy keeps Michelle entertained nearby. 

ANDY: Theo, if all the dishes are done, why don’t you go get ready for bed.  

THEO: So early?  

ANDY: You can watch TV for one hour before you go to sleep. 

THEO: All right! (Theo runs to his room and closes the door.) 

ANDY: (Walking up behind Connie as she puts the last of the dishes away. He places his good arm around her waist and pulls her tightly to his body.) I’m going to get in bed …you want to join me? 

CONNIE: (Turning to face Andy. She places her arms around him.) I’ll be in shortly. (She hugs him tightly.) Andy, I love you. 

ANDY: I love you too. (Andy gives her a quick kiss on the forehead and begins to walk towards the bedroom.) Don’t be too long. 

CONNIE: I won’t. 

Connie straightens up the kitchen and waters some of the plants there and in the living room. She picks up the accumulated mail from the past few days and begins to sort through it. Finally, Connie puts the mail down and turns off the light as she begins to make her way to the bedroom. Andy is sitting in bed paging through a magazine. When Connie enters the room he puts the magazine down and focuses his attention on her. 

ANDY: I was starting to worry about you. 

CONNIE: What do you mean? 

ANDY: I thought you be in here sooner. 

Connie goes to check on Michelle who is sleeping peacefully in her crib. 

CONNIE: I’m sorry, I started looking over the mail….I guess I just lost track of time. 

Connie heads into the bathroom and comes out a few moments later after changing her clothes. She heads towards the door. 

ANDY: Where are you going? 

CONNIE: I thought I’d check on Theo. Make sure he’s ready for bed. 

Connie walks out of the bedroom before Andy can say a word. Andy senses something is wrong but decides not to say anything as Connie comes back in the room. She takes off her robe and quietly gets in bed. 

ANDY: Theo all right? 

CONNIE: Yeah, he was already sound asleep. I turned the TV and the lights off, he didn’t even stir. He’s been through a lot in the last couple days; he’s got to be exhausted. 

Connie relaxes back on the bed and pulls the covers up around her. Andy leans over and slowly kisses her neck then moving to her lips.  

CONNIE: (Pulling away.) I’m sorry; I’m just so tired. 

ANDY: It’s ok; you’ve been through a lot. I shouldn’t have… 

CONNIE: (Placing her finger on his lips to quiet him.) I’m just tired. Let’s get some sleep….ok? 

ANDY: OK, good night…(Giving her a gentle kiss on the lips.) 

CONNIE: Good night Andy. (Connie moves in close to Andy and rests her head on his uninjured shoulder.) 

ANDY: (Taking Connie’s hand and softly kissing it.) Connie, you know I love you….and I’m here for you, always, for whatever you need. 

CONNIE: (She feels the tears begin to well up in her eyes.) I know. I love you too…so much. (Her voice cracks with emotion and she stops talking - not wanting Andy to hear her emotions coming out.) Andy, will you put your arms around me….hold me? 

ANDY: (Wrapping his arms around Connie and pulling her tightly to his chest.) Relax, get some rest. You’re safe here, in my arms. 

Connie loved the feeling of Andy’s strong arms holding her tight. She felt safe, like she could finally let go and relax now.  

 

SCENE 39: Next Day. 15th Precinct. Andy and Connie have gone in to identify Money T from a photo line-up and fill out the necessary paperwork so that charges may be filed. The other detectives have given them a warm welcome and they are chatting with them when PAA John tells John Clark he has a phone call and he goes to his desk to take the call. 

CONNIE: (Laughing with Mary Franco.) Don’t get too comfortable…I’ll be back in a few days. 

FRANCO: I know, but it is nice to be back in the 15th.  

Andy motions to Connie from the Lieutenant’s office to join him. 

THOMASON: How are you doing McDowell? 

CONNIE: All right, sir. It’s been good to catch up on my sleep. I’m hoping to get back next Monday. 

THOMASON: Don’t rush it. Take all the time you need. You just went through quite an experience. 

ANDY: That’s what I told her….take her time, make sure she’s not rushing it. 

THOMASON: I spoke with the Chief of D’s yesterday and I have some good news for both of you. In light of the recent circumstances, you two have been granted a waiver to allow you both to work in the same precinct. I’m not sure I agree, but the Chief has spoken and his wishes will be honored. 

ANDY: (Placing his arm around Connie’s shoulder.) Thank you for the good news. 

CONNIE: Yes, thank you. I wanted to stay here in the 15th, it’s home now. 

THOMASON: I think you can thank Rodriguez for the waiver. I understand he did some heavy lobbying with the powers that be in the last couple days. 

John Clark knocks on the door and enters the office. 

JOHN: I just got some news on Money T. He’s being brought in for booking; he’s on his way in with uniforms now. 

ANDY: He’s out of the hospital already? 

JOHN: I guess so. 

THOMASON: If he doesn’t have a lawyer with him, put him in Room 3.  

JOHN: Will do. 

Andy and Connie exit Thomason’s office and are in the hallway talking with Rita, Baldwin and Greg. Two uniformed officers begin to walk the bandaged Money T up the stairs to the Interrogation Room. As Money T passes the group… 

MONEY T: (Looking at Connie.) You were a good piece of ass…we’ll have to get together again some time. 

Andy explodes in anger and immediately lands a punch on Money T’s chin and Money T falls to the floor. 

ANDY: (Standing over Money T, his voice filled with rage.) You come near my family again and I will personally rip you apart…piece by piece. You hear me? 

Baldwin steps in and walks Andy away. 

BALDWIN: Andy, he’s not worth it. He’ll be taken care of in prison. 

ANDY: (Looking at the uniformed officers.) Get this scumbag out of here. (He turns to Connie.) You all right? 

CONNIE: Yeah, I’m ok. 

ANDY: (Taking her hand in his as they silently walk down the stairs.) Let’s go home. 

The ride home was quiet. Connie didn’t say a word and Andy didn’t know what to say, so he drove in silence. As they entered the apartment, Connie still hadn’t said a word. 

ANDY: (To Connie as she walks into the kitchen.) Connie, can we talk for a moment… 

CONNIE: (Getting a glass of water.) Sure. 

ANDY: (Taking a seat on the sofa. Connie walks into the living room.) Sit down, here, next to me. 

CONNIE: (Taking a seat on the sofa but not particularly close to Andy.) What’s on your mind? 

ANDY: (It’s painful for him to bring up the subject.) You know I’m here for you. To talk, to listen….whatever you need. 

CONNIE: I know Andy. 

ANDY: (Reaching out to touch Connie on the shoulder.) I haven’t asked about what happened. You can talk to me if you feel like you want to. (He moves a little closer to her and whispers to her quietly…) You can’t say anything to me that would change the way I feel about you. I love you today, I’ll love you tomorrow, I’ll love you always, Connie. We’re going to spend the rest of our lives together. 

CONNIE: (Tears are welling up in her eyes.) I know, I love you too. 

The phone rings and breaks the moment. Andy grabs the phone and answers it. 

ANDY: Hello 

Connie stands from the sofa and returns to the kitchen, turning to watch Andy as he listens to the caller. 

ANDY: Thanks for calling. I’m sure Theo would really like that. I’ll drop him by later tonight. Ok, Mrs. Sullivan. Bye. 

Andy hangs up the phone and walks to Connie in the kitchen. 

ANDY: That was Stevie’s mom. She’s having a sleepover for his birthday tonight, she hadn’t heard back if Theo would be coming.  

CONNIE: I guess with everything going on, Theo forgot to mention it. He’s been holding up really well considering everything that’s been happening. 

ANDY: Yeah, Katie did a good job sheltering him from the news. I think that helped. (He runs his hand along his forehead, and then puts his arms around Connie.) Remember what I said. I’m here for you….I love you. 

CONNIE: (Burying her face into Andy’s shoulder.) I know. I’m glad you’re here with me. 

ANDY: I wouldn’t want to be any place else. 

They hold each other tenderly, allowing all their frayed emotions of the past week to relax and the wounds to begin to heal. Only the doorbell interrupts them and their embrace. Andy gives Connie a kiss on the forehead and goes to answer the door. Andrea enters holding Michelle. 

ANDREA: I’m sorry if I’m a little early. 

CONNIE: (Meeting Andrea by the door and taking Michelle from her.) No problem. (Rubbing noses with Michelle as Michelle laughs.) Thanks for watching her while we went into the station. 

ANDREA: Did everything go ok? 

ANDY: Yeah, it went fine. Got all the paperwork squared away. We’re both going to return to work on Monday.  

CONNIE: So, we’ve got a few more days to relax at home. 

ANDREA: You two should take it easy. If you want, I can watch the kids one night, maybe you two can go out for dinner or something. 

CONNIE: (As Andrea starts to leave.) We’ll let you know. Andrea, thanks again for everything you’ve done over the past week. You’ve been a Godsend.  

ANDREA: Anytime you guys. I’ll see you later. 

Andrea exits and Connie returns her attentions back to Michelle - who is laughing at the faces Andy is making at her. 

CONNIE: I can tell now, she’s going to be a Daddy’s girl. 

ANDY: That sounds just fine with me. 

Andy looks at his watch and realizes it is nearing time to pick up Theo from his summer day camp program at school. 

ANDY: I’m going to throw some things in Theo’s backpack, get him from school and take him over to Stevie’s house. (Heading towards Theo’s bedroom.) Do we need anything while I’m out? 

CONNIE: No. I’ll start dinner - it’ll be ready when you get back.  

ANDY: I won’t be long. 

Moments later, Andy leans over and kisses Michelle on the head, then gives Connie a quick kiss on the cheek before heading out. Connie looks around the now empty apartment and reflects back to how much her life has changed over the past year. Not only did she now have custody of Michelle but also Andy, this wonderful and caring man, was such a part and presence in her life now that the thought of how they had reached this point was almost dizzying.  

CONNIE: (Looking at Michelle perched on her hip.) You want to help me with dinner? (Michelle gurgled with laughter.) What do you think Andy wants for dinner? (Michelle speaks some baby talk.) Spaghetti, huh? Well, I’m telling him it was your decision… 

Connie heads to the kitchen, placing Michelle in her child seat so she can watch her. 

CONNIE: (Looking over at Michelle.) Let’s make Daddy a special dinner….ok? 

SCENE 40: Andy and Connie’s apartment. Andy’s been gone about an hour and a half. Connie can hear him placing his key in the door and hears him enter the apartment. 

ANDY: Sorry I took so long. I had to make another stop. 

CONNIE: (Looking up from the kitchen counter and facing Andy.) What was that? 

ANDY: (Pulling a bouquet of Gerber daisies out from behind his back.) I brought these for you.  

CONNIE: Andy, you didn’t have to do that. 

ANDY: I know….but…..I wanted to. 

CONNIE: (Reaching up to give him a kiss on the cheek.) Thank you. (Putting the flowers down on the counter.) How was Theo?  

ANDY: He was excited to go to Stevie’s sleepover. We had to stop and get a birthday present on the way. (Looking around the apartment.) Where’s Michelle? 

CONNIE: I just put her down. Let’s keep our fingers crossed she’ll sleep through our dinner. 

ANDY: (Putting his hand on Connie’s waist and pulling her closer to him.) A nice quiet evening …just us…I like the sound of that. 

CONNIE: Me too. You hungry? The spaghetti is ready. 

ANDY: Spaghetti sounds good. 

CONNIE: (Smiling.) It was Michelle’s idea…why don’t you sit down and I’ll be right over. 

ANDY: (Holding onto Connie’s waist, Andy leans over and kisses Connie gently on the lips.) You need any help? 

CONNIE: No, I’m fine. 

Andy and Connie enjoy dinner and afterwards wash the dishes together. As they finish cleaning up the kitchen, Andy stands behind Connie and places his hand on her hip. He takes a deep breath and feels almost intoxicated by the scent of her hair. Connie puts the dishtowel down and enjoys the sensation of Andy’s breath on the back of her neck.  

ANDY: Your hair, it smells really nice. 

CONNIE: (Quietly.) Thanks, I’m glad you like it. 

ANDY: Now that we’ve finished in here, you want to get ready for bed? 

CONNIE: (Turning to face Andy, she softly strokes his face with her hand.) It’s sort of early, are you tired? 

ANDY: We don’t have to go to sleep yet. We can just relax, you know, talk.  

CONNIE: (Giving him a smile and a wink.) I’m going to take a shower first. I won’t be long. 

ANDY: I’ll be waiting… 

Connie gives Andy a quick kiss and heads to the bathroom. Andy straightens up around the kitchen then locks the front door and turns off the lights in the apartment before heading into the bedroom. Michelle is sleeping peacefully in her crib and Andy straightens the blanket around her. He’s come to love this little baby as if she was his own. Andy knew she had him hooked when she laughed at his faces and when she grabbed tightly at his arms and wouldn’t let go. Andy heard the shower turn off and he walked over the closet tuick kiss and heads to the bathroom. Andy straightens up around the kitchen then locks the front door and turns off the lights in the apartment before heading into the bedroom. Michelle is sleeping peacefully in her crib and Andy straightens the blanket around her. He’s come 

`

ANDY: You are so beautiful. What did I ever do to deserve having you come into my life? 

CONNIE: (With a slight laugh in her voice as she unbuttons Andy’s shirt.) I guess you were just lucky. Do you think we can loose the sling? 

ANDY: Yeah. 

Connie slowly removed the sling, gently releasing Andy’s arm. Next she removed Andy’s shirt and dropped it to the floor. Slowly Connie unbuckled the belt and unbuttoned the top of Andy’s pants, which fell to floor. They stood facing each other, looking into each other’s eyes, each a little uncertain of which move to make next. 

ANDY: (Keeping his eyes focused on Connie’s eyes.) You want to move over to the bed? 

CONNIE: (Looking deep into Andy’s eyes.) I like the view right here. 

ANDY: (Pulling her close to his body and wrapping his arms around her.) We can take it slow….I’m not in any hurry.  

Neither moves for what feels like an eternity to each of them. Andy doesn’t want to let go; she’s here with him, safe in his arms. He knew what he had just said to Connie was a bit of a lie; he wanted to make love to her right now, like he never had before, he needed her desperately now, but he could sense she was teetering on a fragile edge. 

Connie loved the feeling of Andy’s arms around her, holding her tightly. She didn’t want the feeling to end, the feeling of being safe and loved unconditionally. At the same time, she needed Andy more than she ever had. Her passion for him raged deep inside of her….and she knew he felt the same way. She could deny him - and herself - no longer. Connie ran her hands down Andy’s arms and took him by the hand and led him to the bed. 

CONNIE: (Whispering softly in Andy’s ear.) Andy, love me….make love to me. 

Andy softly lifts Connie onto the bed and she leans back on the pillows. Andy began showering her with kisses along her neck and down her chest until he reached the tied belt of her robe. He looked up at Connie’s face as she watched him work his way down her body. Her eyes spoke volumes of the trust and love they shared. Slowly, Andy began to pull the tie on her robe and separated the robe to give him entrance to her body. For the first time, Andy noticed the bruises around her waist, hips and on her thighs. The thought of the pain she must have endured brought him to tears. Tenderly he kissed each of the bruises as if to take the pain away and heal the wounds he knew she was carrying deep inside. Taking his time, Andy worked his way back up her body with kisses as his passion grew. He suddenly felt overcome with emotion, knowing the pain she had endured was largely due to someone trying to get to him. They had gotten to him through one of the most precious parts of his life. Tears streamed down Andy’s cheeks and he picked Connie up in his arms and hugged her tightly. Connie kissed the tears from his cheeks and wrapped her body around Andy. 

ANDY: (His voice shaken.) This was my fault. They wanted to get to me… You never did anything…. 

CONNIE: (Calmly.) Andy, we are ok.  

ANDY: (His voice still filled with emotion, running his hand along Connie’s body.) You should have never been put through this…it’s all my fault. What they did to you… 

CONNIE: These wounds on my body will heal in time. (Taking Andy’s hand and placing it over her heart.) Your love, Andy…will heal my soul. As long as I know I have your heart in mine…I know I am going to be just fine. 

ANDY: You have my heart…you always will. 

Connie moves over Andy as he lies back on the bed and carefully kisses around the wound on his shoulder. Andy begins to relax a little as Connie begins to plant kisses along his neck and down his chest. She stops at his belly button and slowly begins to pull his boxers down. Andy lets out a groan of pleasure as Connie places her mouth over his penis. She slowly moves her mouth up and down, fast then slow. Andy can barely contain himself. He feels sensations coursing throughout his body like he has never felt before.  

ANDY: Connie, stop…. 

CONNIE: (Climbing her way up his chest.) Are you ok? 

ANDY: Tonight is about you… 

Pulling Connie in close to his body, their mouths find one another and they let their tongues work their magic. Andy feels as if he can’t get enough of her fast enough…but he doesn’t want this to end. He slowly rolls Connie onto her back and begins to lavish her with small, tender kisses - once again, working his way down her body, her neck, stopping at her breasts and paying special attention to her nipples before moving on to her stomach and belly button. He gently kisses her bruises again and slowly parts her legs giving him entry to her sweet spot. Slowly his tongue works magic over the spot and Connie moans with pleasure. Andy takes his time - working the spot alternately fast then slow - as the tide of Connie’s passion builds. Inside she feels like a symphony is building to it’s climax and just as she feels as if she can take no more and is going to explode in pleasure, Andy stops teasing her with his tongue and moves their bodies so he can enter her and allow them to enjoy their pleasure together. Their bodies move in unison, each thrust bringing them closer together in their pleasure. Just as they are both reaching their climax, Connie takes her hands and carefully pushes Andy over on his back. 

CONNIE: (Hugging him tightly and whispering in his ear.) I want to watch you… 

With that she positions herself on Andy’s lap and slowly begins to ride him to climax. As she moves back and forth, Connie looks deep into the eyes of this wonderful man she has fallen so deeply for. The eyes are the path to the soul and what a warm and gentle path she was on. She leaned into Andy and her mouth met his and they kissed with uncontrollable passion. Suddenly they each felt their passion climax and they could contain themselves no longer. Andy quietly moaned and Connie fell on his chest and gasped to regain her breath, her body still quaking in pleasure. Beneath, she could feel Andy’s heart beating wildly and in rhythm with her own heartbeat. Connie’s arms were limp on Andy’s chest and she gathered all the energy she could muster to wrap them around him and give him a bear hug. Andy takes her in his arms and cradles her tightly to his body. With his hand, he gently moves her face to kiss her…and finds tears streaming down Connie’s face. 

ANDY: What’s wrong…are you ok? 

CONNIE: (Almost unable to speak, her emotions spill out in a sudden release.) I was so afraid. I thought I was never going to see you again. Andy, I love you so much and I ….I thought I’d lost you. I thought they were going to kill you… 

ANDY: That didn’t happen…I’m here and I’m not going anywhere… 

CONNIE: (Her body still shaking from her emotional release.) I love you, more than I can put into words. 

ANDY: (Stroking her face, wiping the tears away.) I think we just did a pretty good job of expressing that love….wouldn’t you say. 

CONNIE: Andy, I love you…endlessly. 

ANDY: (Taking her face in his hand and gently turning it toward him.) I love you too…endlessly. (Gently kissing her on the lips, tasting her sweetness.)  

CONNIE: Don’t let go ….hold me tight. 

Andy pulls himself up and props pillows up against the headboard of the bed. Carefully he pulls Connie onto his chest and tightly wraps his arms around her, gently stroking her shoulder.  

ANDY: I’m right here….and I’m not letting go. 

A healing of souls had taken place and both Connie and Andy knew that was what had happened tonight. They spent the next hours just enjoying being in each other’s arms, holding each other tightly in the moonlight flooding in through the window, healing each other’s battered souls. They knew now they could weather any storm, fight any battle…the power of love was a strong and amazing force…a force Andy and Connie had an endless quantity of.