BROKEN LOVE


By LORRAINE 0.


PART 1


Nikita pulled herself up, gathering her frayed nerves and pointed to the cellar.

It’s all downstairs.

She surprised herself when she heard the strength in her voice.

Michael lowered his gun, his face wearing his classic blank stare. Little did Nikita know that inside, he felt he was no better then the scum, Karl Peruze lying in a pool of blood between them.

Pulling her sweater back up to cover her naked shoulder, she stepped past him, trying hard to not turn and vent her anger on him with one of the dinner knives on the table.

Several operatives swarmed the site, orders being barked out, containment cases brought in, and housekeeping doing their prep work.

Through tear filled eyes, Nikita made her way to the van, wishing she could wipe her feelings away like a smudge of dirt.

About 20 minutes later, Michael entered the van, his gun tucked in his belt, eyes masked behind dark glasses.

Glancing up, she immediately pulled her gaze back to the floor, willing him away from her, not wanting to deal with him.

Are you alright? He asked pulling the shades off and placing them in the pocket of his long brown jacket.

Nikita kept her silence, crossing her arms over her stomach and hoped he would leave her be.

Michael sat across from her, pulling the laptop open and began typing in Intel for the debriefing later on.

The expression on her face was unreadable but her clear blue eyes gave away the hurt and betrayal he had inflicted on her. Just as he was about to explain, the rest of the team arrived in the van signalling the conversation was now over. He decided he would try to speak to her later, perhaps out of the earshot of Section and her spies. Reluctantly, Michael returned his attention to the job at hand.

******************************************

Madeline gave her a week off which she took without as much as a thank you. It was the least they could do for her. After being manipulated so badly by not only them, but by Michael, she was going to need the full week to regain her shattered emotions. After reaching her apartment, she looked around and rolled her eyes.

No way am I staying here. She mumbled making up her mind and heading for her bedroom. She was going to pack up and drive up the coast to a small inn she had seen a few months back on a previous mission.

The sound of the door made her stop and look over to the small surveillance screen. The image of Michael stood on the other side of the door. He knocked again, his head looked up at where the hidden cam was located and stared.

Shit. She cursed and slammed the bag onto the floor, her clothes spilling out. Tucking in her shirt, she unlocked the door, opening it only half way.

What do you want? She asked, her voice bitter sounding even to her own ears, yet past caring at that point.

Michael looked at her, not surprised by her icy greeting, letting his own feelings go ignored at her attitude towards him.

Can I come in? He asked in his hushed voice hoping she would relent.

Nikita pursed her lips, wanting to say no and slam the door in his face but figured it would be easier to just let him in. He wasn’t going to be deterred by the look in his eyes. Taking a step back, she let the door open on its own and headed to the fridge.

Michael stepped inside, shutting the door behind him. Right away, he spotted the shredded up picture Section had placed in her apt with the mind inducing picture, and he suddenly felt an unfamiliar pang of guilt sweep over him yet again.

Nikita grabbed a bottle of icy cold water and drank from it deeply, hip checking the door shut. Swallowing the water, she set the bottle down after pulling herself onto the counter, feet dangling freely. She stared down at the floor, waiting for him to speak, not caring if she was making him feel anything less then comfortable.

Michael came in the narrow kitchen and leaned against the stove top opposite her, his hands laced in front of him loosely. Are you alright?

Opposed to what? She snapped back almost before he got the question out, her eyes coming up to glare at him.

I deserved that. He said quietly.

Nikita snorted and took another deep drink, nodding as he did so. Yeah. She agreed not letting him off the hook. The memory of their last encounter in Madeline’s office flashed through her mind. The sound of her open palm slapping him full force across the face echoed over and over in her head since then and only seemed to get louder with time.

I was doing my job…

Nikita slammed her bottle down hard on the counter and slid down to the floor, trying to move past him only to be stopped by his almost painful grip on her arm.

You had to believe you loved him or he would have killed you.

Nikita shook her head, a sad smile spread over her face. Fine,,, you want me to say I forgive you? Okay,,,, I forgive you. She spat out her voice telling him she didn’t mean a word she said.

Michael let a pained expression show as he stared down into her face. Reluctantly loosening his grip on her arms, he felt actual surprise when she all but pushed him out of her way to step around him, and head for her room.

Picking up her bag from the floor, she continued to pack her things feeling his gaze on her still.

Michael put his hands deep in the pockets, watching her, wondering where she was going but knowing better then to ask. He saw that he had hurt her deeply and this time, it wouldn’t get let go so easily. He didn’t blame her.. He felt the anger was justified considering their relationship.

Pulling the zipper closed, she threw it over her shoulder and came down the small steps to brush past him and get her jacket from the closet. Grabbing her keys from the counter, she yanked her coat off the chair beside the door.

Use your key and lock up when you leave. She said and without so much as a look back, she opened the door and stormed out leaving him to stare after her.

PART 2

Michael seated himself at the long table, his attention focused on the panel he held in his hands yet his mind was in turmoil. Nikita had returned to Section after her week on down time but had avoided him whenever possible and rumours were running rampant throughout Section. She was seen spending much of her time with Rick Black, a level 5 Michael had gone through training with years ago and had been recently reassigned to Section One from Eastern Europe.

The sound of her throaty laugh floated across the huge room, reaching his ears and it sent thrills down his spine as it always had but now it was mixed with a pang of hurt deep in his chest. Shifting slightly, he could see them in the corner of his eye walking together immersed in conversation as they approached.

She looked incredible as always, her slim trim body encased in white leather pants and matching jacket today, her hair fell in cascading curls about her face, resting on the small swell of her breasts. Michael was thankful for the dark pants and long jacket he wore as it hid his obvious reaction to her.

Rick seated himself after pulling out her chair and looked over at Michael.

Good morning Michael. How are you? I haven’t had a chance to come and say hello. Rick greeted Michael with a friendly grin, totally unaware of the tension between Nikita and his old friend.

Michael inclined his head setting the panel down. Fine. He answered with his usual simple one word replies he was so famous for.

Rick laughed clapping him on the shoulder making a few of the younger ops raise an eyebrow. No one touched Michael Samuelle for any reason and got away with it unless it was for training purposes.

Michael looked over at him trying to keep his stance neutral.

Nikita pulled her bright green rimmed glasses off her nose, setting them down on the table if front of her, chewing her gum carelessly and brought her blue eyes up only to find him staring hard at her.

I have been a bit distracted with this lovely lady here. He motioned to Nikita completely unaware of their well-known relationship.

Nikita looked away, snapping her gum and crossed her legs under the glass top table.

Michael pulled his eyes from her and looked at Rick.

Maybe we can do coffee later? Better yet,, a beer? He suggested undoing the button of his jacket getting comfortable in his seat.

Before Michael could answer, Operations entered and began the briefing.

In short, Michael and his team will enter and set up position in the club. Rick, you and team two will be back up when things blow up, and we all know it will. I want as few casualties as possible.

Nikita rolled her eyes when she read her panel and discovered she was to play the part of Michael’s girlfriend and made up her mind to be completely professional as he would be. She wasn’t going to let him know how much she really felt inside still.

The briefing broke up and she got to her feet, conscious of Rick’s closeness to her and the effect it was having on Michael. He wasn’t happy at all and she saw it in his subtle mannerisms. He seemed stiff, rigid in his movements.

Rick touched her shoulder, bringing her attention back to the present.

Michael kept walking away keenly aware of the tension between them and headed for his office to prep.

Nikita, after the mission, maybe you could come with me and Michael for a drink? He and I go way back. He suggested giving her a charming smile; his brown eyes sparkled at her boyishly.

Sure,,, might be fun. She gave him a false smile and headed out to wardrobe wondering what ghastly outfit Madeline had picked out for her this time.

Nikita tugged at the black bustier amazed at how uncomfortable it was and cursed Madeline repeatedly as she came out of the dressing room. The image staring back at her in the mirror almost made her laugh. Her blonde hair was covered in a short sassy red wig; wisps of hair surrounded her face giving her a totally different look. The bustier held her cinched in; her breasts spilling out over the top making her feel naked. The skirt was all but painted on and covered only to just the bottom of her bum. Her legs were bare save the thigh high boots and silver spurs on the ankles.

Jesus Madeline, I feel like I should have change for a quarter. Nikita sighed none too happy at the look she had to endure for the evening.

Madeline smiled, nodding her approval. Yes, you certainly do. Perfect. She adjusted the wig and then handed Nikita a bag of makeup. Use this liberally. She said watching Nikita look in the bag and make a face at her.

Blue eye shadow?

She pulled out the small shadow and looked over at the older woman unimpressed.

No one told me I was a hooker. I am supposed to be a patron, that’s it.

Madeline walked over to the rack of clothes by the far wall, her high heels clicking on the wood floor.

A trashy patron Nikita. Just a trashy patron.

She looked through the jackets and finally decided on a black fur bolero type and handed it to a stunned Nikita. I am sure you will do the part justice.

Nikita grabbed the jacket and gave her a nasty look. No need to be insulting Madeline. And then turned to leave, concentrating on not falling over on the stiletto heels.

These were the times when I really hate Section. She grumbled to herself making her way down to munitions dreading the evening ahead.

Walter looked up from his desk and let out a laugh when she walked in.

You remind me of my first wife! He snorted wiping the tears of laughter from his eyes.

Shut up Walter. She gave him a slap on the arm and pulled the jacket on; careful to not jar the wig she wore.

Walter tried to not smile but failed miserably.

And where you planning on hiding this? He asked holding up her weapon.

Nikita grabbed it from his hand and slipped it into the holster in her jacket.

You know Walter,,,, there are days when I think that bandana is damaging your brains. She gave him a smile and turned to leave, making sure he got an eyeful.

Later sugar… He called admiring the view she so kindly provided.

PART 3

Nikita sidled up to Michael, her hand resting just inside his shirt when one of the bouncers of the club strolled by and kissed his neck.

Michael’s hand slide down over her shapely hip and squeezed the soft flesh of her bottom making sure the guy saw them pawing each other. The place was a total dive as far as he was concerned; hookers and drunken men were aplenty as were the drugs.

As soon as the bouncer was out of sight, Nikita pulled back, pushing Michael’s hand back up to her waist.

Birkoff, Status of the target? Michael asked taking a sip of his beer and placing it back on the bar behind him. It was probably the worst beer he had ever had to drink but playing the part and fitting in with the scruffy crowd was essential.

Target is about 3 blocks from the club. Another 5 minutes yet Michael. Birkoffs voice informed him in the earpiece he wore.

Nikita snapped her gum noisily, swaying to the beat of the music, her blue eyes on high alert.

Michael let himself look at her, enjoying the feel of her in-between his hard jean covered thighs. Wrapping his arms around her waist and holding her firmly, he nuzzled her neck knowing she would be angry at his unneeded advances.

Don’t overplay the part. She said evenly turning so her back was to him.

Michael let her move away slightly, his eyes scanning over the room spotting several members of their team and then returned his attention to her.

We need to stay together. He said simply.

Nikita stopped swaying and turned her head slightly, a flush creeping up in her face.

No, you need us to stay together. She corrected him none too kindly returning her gaze to the room.

You’re right. I do. He whispered his confession into her ear making her grow still.

Just then, Birkoffs voice sounded in their earpieces. Target on sight. Prepare for sequence.

Michael drew himself up and once more became the operative as did Nikita. As usual. Birkoffs timing was bad. He thought to himself.

*********************

Rick looked over at her profile in the seat next to him, noticing for the first time, a sad expression in her eyes. Curious, he followed her gaze and was surprised to see it locked on Michael near the front of the van.

Michael was sitting at a screen typing in Intel as per usual, seemingly unaware of her attention.

Pulling the bandanna off his blonde curls, he nudged her with his shoulder gently and gave her a faint smile.

Nikita smiled back but quickly pulled her eyes down fixing her gaze on her lap instead.

The mission had gone well, with only one loss. The target had been secured with little effort and the teams seemed happy with the overall outcome. De-briefings would be short and for that everyone was grateful.

Arriving in the access area, the team clambered out, each going to drop off their weapons. Nikita accepted Rick’s hand as she got out of the van, nearly falling on her face when one of the heels caught in the metal steps. Landing in his arms, Nikita gave him a smile, embarrassed at her clumsiness and for the small part of her that enjoyed the feeling of being held in his arms.

Michael got out after her and strode past them without even glancing their way.

Nikita flushed at his snub, infuriated at his cold routine once again.

Ooops, She forced a loud giggle making sure Michael heard it before he turned the corner and disappeared.

Rick, not picking up on it, laughed helping her to free her heel, his strong arm wrapped about her waist preventing her from falling.

Nikita pulled at the skirt when it started to ride up too high and flushed when Rick grinned with appreciation.

Now don’t go pulling that back down for my sake. You have great legs. He teased finally pulling the heel from the small metal slats of the step.

Nikita smoothed down the tight material and thanked him, then turned and hurried down the hall not wanting to engage in any more conversation. She was tired, hungry and confused.

Rick watched her leave admiring the sway of her hips, his groin tightening at the thought of her in his bed. Shaking his head, he went off in search of Michael. He had a few questions for him he needed answering.

Rick knocked on the office door and stuck his head inside.

Michael looked up from his desk, once more dressed in his trademark black Armani.

Hey, what’s with all the black? Who died? He jokingly asked letting the door close behind him and sit on the one chair opposite the desk.

Michael placed the screen down and folded his hands on his lap, his face remaining blank as always.

We all did. Michael said calmly, his green eyes stared across at his old friend evenly.

Rick lost his smile and he leaned forward, elbows on his knees. What happened to you? You’ve changed Michael. He said seriously, taking in the changes in him.

Michael looked out the office window and then back to Rick. The silence between them growing increasingly tense.

Don’t you enjoy the job? He asked.

No, not really.

Rick sighed and leaned back in his chair. I heard things over the years Michael, but I didn’t think they were true until just this second.

Michael remained as he was, unwavering in his stare making Rick laugh a loud now.

Well, are we going out tonight for a drink? He asked changing the subject knowing he was getting nowhere with him.

I don’t drink.

How about a coffee?

Michael inclined his head slightly after a few moments passed. Fine.

Rick stood up, smoothing out his leather pants. Great,,, just gimme some time to change. Cool?

Alright. Was his simple reply watching his old friend move to the door, bandanna in hand. What he really wanted was to meet up with Nikita but that wasn’t likely to happen anytime soon.

PART 4

Nikita brushed out her hair, thankful to have finally taken off the red wig she was forced to wear. Her foot was sore where her heel had caught but she managed to get her foot into her snug boots.

At least they weren’t heels. She thought to herself applying a light shade of pink to her lips. Rick had told her to meet him and Michael at The Black Mug, a coffee shop she and Michael frequented often. Running her hands through her hair, she sprit zed some hair spray in it and snapped her purse shut satisfied with her look. Grabbing her coat, she headed to the main elevators, happy to be getting out of Section yet dreading her night with Rick and Michael.

So, Michael,,, how have you been? Rick settled into the booth seat comfortably, his one hand wrapped around his coffee mug. Michael sipped his and then looked across at him.

Fine.

Is ol Maddy still warm for your form? Rick laughed heartily at his joke recalling how she always seemed to need him for one thing or another. When he got no response, Rick coughed, letting the question go unanswered.

I was sorry to hear about Simone. She was a good lady. He became serious once again noticing the subtle change in Michaels face.

Thank you. He replied in a hushed tone.

I get the feeling you have something going with Kita. He more stated then questioned.

Michael winced inside at the intimate name only he called her.

Why? He asked.

Rick shrugged and took another sip. From the expression on her face in the van tonight. She is in love with you I think.

Michael let his gaze move about the room for a moment before deciding to answer. Why would this interest me?

Rick cocked an eyebrow at him. Oh come on man,,, hello? Its me,,, Rick, You remember me? I am the guy who you went thru hell and back with. I think I know you better then that. Every time she is near, you clam up even more….if that’s possible. He added giving Michael a look as if to say get real.

Blinking, Michael finally pulled his eyes from Rick’s to look down at his mug.

Just then, Rick spotted Nikita enter the café and waved. Heads up buddy, she’s here. He gave Michael a tap with his foot under the table making Michael look back up once again.

Both men got to their feet when she arrived and she smiled uneasily.

Did I interrupt something? She asked looking between the two of them as she slid into the booth seat beside Rick.

No, not at all. You look great. I like the blonde a lot better. Rick snickered, moving back as the waitress came over with a mug and filled it for her.

Nikita nodded her thanks to the young woman and then sipped the hot brew with appreciation trying not to let her nerves at being so close to Michael show.

You and me both. She agreed setting the cup back down and unbuttoning her jacket.

I swear if that woman doesn’t back off I am gonna kill her. You know, I think she does it on purpose to me. Nikita gave a chuckle and crossed her legs under the table. Feeling his eyes on her, she finally looked across the table astounded by the depth of emotion in his eyes.

Rick caught the look on her face and quickly looked down at his watch,,, I need to make a call,,, be right back. He excused himself and slipped away before either of them could protest.

Nikita cleared her throat, shifting uneasily in her seat wanting to kick Rick for doing this to her.

I wasn’t aware you would be joining us. He finally said breaking the silence as it stretched out between them.

Nikita brought her eyes up and met his, fighting to remain as impassive as he. Nikita tucked her hair behind her ear and bit her lip trying to think of something to say and failing miserably.

Leaning forward, Michael placed his hand over hers on the table and pulled it closer to him.

Nikita stopped breathing for a moment but let him hold her hand for the time being.

Remind me to thank him later. He added turning her hand over so her palm was facing up. Running his finger over the crease lines ever so gently he began to speak again.

We need to meet later.. He stated calmly pausing to look up into her eyes gauging her for her response.

Nikita looked down for a moment and then pulled her hand from his slowly but firmly. Michael,,, I slept with him. You helped them brainwash me into thinking I loved Karl. How could you have done this to me? She asked bitterly being careful to control the level of her voice.

Michael searched her face and looked off to the side before speaking. If we didn’t do it, the mission would have failed and you….

Stuff the explanation for the mission Michael… Nikita cut him off exasperated sounding. I don’t care about that…. Why did *you* do this to me? Don’t you think I am good enough to have pulled this off and not had to have been drugged and brainwashed?

Michel sat up; pulling his hands back to his side of the table and pulled out his gloves and glasses.

No…. I don’t. And that’s why I helped. He stated simply, his voice barely audible.

Nikita flushed hotly, her mouth felt dry, her stomach in knots.

Kita.. He reached for her hand again and clutched it hard within his own making her look up at him. I have never done nor will I ever do anything to harm you. If you cant see that, He paused and lifted her fingers to his mouth, kissing them gently as he kept his eyes glued to hers, continued. We have nothing.

Michael gave her fingers one last kiss, his warm lips lingering on her for a split second longer then necessary and then placed it slowly back down onto the table.

Goodnight Nikita. He said getting to his feet and calmly walk out of the café.

Nikita brought her fingers to her mouth, tasting him on her skin, her heart aching as she watched him through the window crossing the street, his long jacket lifting in the wind, tousling his hair, and disappear into the crowds.

PART 5

What are you waiting for?

Rick’s voice in her ear startled her and she looked up at him, hand resting over her heart as it pounded almost painfully. Pulling her up by the arm, he helped her put her jacket on.

What do you mean? She stammered feeling flustered watching him pull his coat on too. Rick grinned broadly.

Awww come on Kita…. That man is so in love with you it’s pathetic. You’re going to go to him,, tonight.

Shaking her head, she hung onto her purse he had just handed her, watching him dig for his car keys. No,,,,, I can’t…

Yes you can,, and you will. He interrupted her pulling out his wallet and laying out a bill for the coffees.

She shook her head again. No I mean I really can’t… I don’t know where he lives.

Rick put his arm around her shoulder, leaned down to her ear. I do. He whispered giving her a quick hug and then dragging her along out the door behind him.

Once in his car, Nikita had second thoughts and began shaking her head.. Look I can’t do this…. Just pull over here and I’ll grab a cab home. Nikita cast him a look and pointed at the next street light.

Sure you can. You’re just being stubborn… just like him. Listen to me Kita.. He paused looking between her and the traffic. I know that man,,, granted, he has changed over the years, but haven’t we all? When he gives his loyalty and love, it’s for life. Trust me,, you have his. Rick finished letting out the clutch when the lights turned green.

Nikita furrowed her eyebrows up and leaned her head on the window, trying to believe Ricks words.

Why can’t Michael tell me those things himself? Why does he always jerk me around like this? I hate this! And how do you know where he lives? She added turning back to look at him.

Rick snorted and gave her a look. Hey,, I’m a level 5 like Michael,, or did you forget? I have access to things you don’t.

He turned a few more corners and then stopped in front of an old looking warehouse, switching the engine off.

Nikita looked around with a confused expression.

He lives in the penthouse flat. Take the elevator to the very top; it’s the only door at the end of the short hall. He smiled again and reached over to give her hand a friendly squeeze.

When she opened her mouth to protest, he shook his finger at her.

\ Nope,,,,,, no offence, but shut up, get out of the car and go. I know he wants you there as much as you want to be there. Trust me. He cut her off and reached past her, opening the car door.

Nikita looked out to the main doors of the warehouse and back to Rick.

Go. He urged her giving her an encouraging smile.

Alright.. I’m going. She climbed out and shut the door, returning his small wave as he pulled away leaving her in the darkened street. Letting out a long breath, she lifted her gaze up to the top of the building noticing all the lights were out and wondered if he was even home.

I rarely leave my lights on when I’m not there. Michael’s voice broke her thoughts making her jump and turn in time to see him emerge from the shadows, the moonlight illuminating his handsome features. His hair blew over his one eye giving him a softer yet wild look and she found herself shaking inside. Michael approached her, his gloved hands at his sides, jacket bottom flipped open at the as a small whoosh of air caught it revealing his hard thighs under a pair of tight black pants.

Nikita stepped back, swallowing feeling like she suddenly made a huge mistake.

You scared me. She stammered as he stopped a foot away from her.

Michael looked at her silently for a moment and then held out his hand to her. You scare me all the time.

Nikita looked down at his hand and then back to his face giving him a questioning look.

That you can make me feel this much. He whispered taking another step towards her and taking her hand in his, placing it on his chest.

I am sorry I hurt you. He added moving her hand so it was just inside his coat where it was warm, protected from the cool night air.

Nikita, unable to bring her gaze up to meet his, stared at his chest where her hand disappeared.

Feeling her shiver, Michael pulled her chin up to look at him. Come inside? He invited her, waiting patiently for her to respond.

Nikita pulled back, stepping away from him, crossing her arms over her stomach, her face showing her confusion. Michael…. I can’t take much more of the way you are with me…..Kissing me, loving me in your bed won’t change what you did or how it made me feel. She waved her hands in the air, pacing as she spoke, pushing her hair from her eyes turning to face him finally.

Michael stood quietly, listening to her, not surprised by her show of emotion. It was one of the things he loved about her but to hear her tell him how badly he made her feel hurt. Seeing his expression falter, she came to him; her hands clutched his lapels, shaking him slightly.

But I also feel complete, whole, so much in love with you Michael. She finished leaning her head on his chest letting him just hold her.

Michael closed his eyes;, pulling her closer to him.

It’s getting cold. He pointed out when she finally stepped back from him, collecting herself after her outburst.

Nodding, she pulled her jacket tighter around her herself, glancing about at the empty street.

Michael held out his hand to her, waiting for her to take it, his face softening as he watched her trying to decide.

Shifting her eyes from his hand to his eyes a few times, she decided to accept, wanting to work things out with him. Almost cautiously, she placed her hand in his, allowing him to lead them up the small steps and into the large building.

Stepping into the elevator, Michael pulled the doors closed and pushed the 12th floor button.

Nikita leaned on the old wood wall, painfully aware of his presence.

Michael turned to face her, keeping a discreet distance between them, knowing he couldn’t rush this with her. The mere fact she had agreed to come in was pleasure enough. Within moments, they had reached the 12th floor and stepped out into the small hall. Walking to the door, Michael slipped in the key card and stepped inside, deactivating the security system.

Nikita followed him walking into the huge loft apartment, her eyes wide as she took in this place he called home.

Closing the door and locking it, Michael watched her wander slowly about the big room, amused by her reaction to his home. Pulling his jacket off, he set it on the couch and came up behind her, his hands rested on her shoulders.

Nikita froze; her head turned slightly silently questioning what he was doing.

Your coat… let me hang it up? He said quietly.

Nikita pulled open her buttons and let him slide it off her shoulders and take it to the closet after picking up his as well. Placing her purse on the kitchen counter, she walked over to the huge windows and looked down on the city.

The sound of his boots on the hardwood floors approaching her from behind made her draw up straighter, waiting for him.

Michael came to her side, his hand barely touching her hair as he studied her profile.

I have no control as to what I have do in Section. It’s the job Kita, and sometimes it means hurting people. After I lost Simone, I lost interest in life. My job became my reason to live. He explained resting his hand on her shoulder, fingers massaging her taut muscles there.

Until you came. You helped me to find myself, to feel again, to trust. I had lost all of it before you. I never realized what I had done would have affected you as hard as it did until Madeline’s office….

His voice trailed off when she finally turned to look at him.

When I slapped you…. She finished his sentence, the scene playing over in her mind yet once again.

Michael gazed at her silently, nodding slightly as he turned her to face him fully. Running his hands up and down her arms, he kissed her cheek gently, and then moved to her eyelids. Pulling back slightly, he waited for her to open her eyes again. When she did, he moved in slow motion, eventually covering her mouth with his, giving her a slow deep kiss, pleased when she opened for him willingly. Their tongues danced about the other, bodies barely touching savouring the ever-deepening kiss. Tentatively, she let her hands come up and rest on his waist, fingers clutching the fabric of his sweater her resolve slipping away with the rush of emotions he evoked in her.

Forgive me? He whispered hands going up into her long hair, holding her head still to look up at him.

Nikita’s mouth opened slightly as she breathed her eyes glassy as she slowly nodded and offered herself to him by leaning into him.

Michael closed his eyes, grateful for the chance at a real love again.


*************THE END*************


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