Title: All I Need is You
Chapter 1 - The Day After Tomorrow

Summary: SEQUEL TO PFK! As Mac and Stella get ready to welcome the newest Taylor to their family, Ella McBride is back, stalking Mac. What threat does she pose to Mac and what danger does Stella face? Can they survive this and start to build their new family? M/S

Disclaimer: I don't own Mac Taylor but I wish I did! This is a piece of fan fiction. It is written for pleasure and not for profit. The characters of CSI New York and any other regular cast and supporting cast members all belong to CBS, Paramount & Jerry Bruckheimer and Anthony Zuiker. All other characters are my own. Any resemblance to anyone living or dead is purely coincidental.

A/N: this storyline follows "Playing for Keeps" You don't have to read it to understand but it will help lay the groundwork for this story and make things clearer. This is dedicated to CSINYMinute and my faraway friend Lily_Moonlight. Thanks you guys for the great ideas and being my sounding board on this new adventure for the past month while this all came together. Yay it's finally here! And yes as you know, I had to add some danger and peril to my favorite couple as their family grows but much like "Playing" no matter what they face, remember my SMACKED always live happily ever after, no one ever dies or faces serious bodily harm and this story will have lots of smacked smex and fluff in addition to action and peril!

PS: Not sure what CBS has planned for the return of Ella McBride if anything but I'm going to run with this. So enjoy and hopefully I can do this sequel justice and you'll enjoy it as much as Playing for Keeps and review often to let me know how I am doing.

Late fall in New York was a beautiful time of year; if the weather cooperated. The days were becoming shorter, but crisper; the colors brighter and people spending more time outdoors, trying to eke out as much of their day before darkness fell.

Central Park, crown jewel of New York was still recovering from the romantic affair it housed the night before. It had opened its arms to the intimate adult crowd and watched with happy eyes as two people finally declared to the world around them their love and devotion to each other; a small gathering of friends and family on hand to witness their solid union. And while the small cleaning crew worked diligently and quietly, not far away two people were still locked in each other's loving embrace, the golden sun starting to lift its head, bathing them in warmth.

To say he slept solidly throughout the night would be an understatement for Mac Taylor; it was the best sleep he had probably enjoyed in his whole adult life. He slowly opened his eyes and gazed upon the reason; Stella Taylor, his wife and partner. His Grecian angel still asleep in his loving embrace. Last night had been more than amazing; in fact all of yesterday, minute by minute was captured in his detail orientated brain. Mac prided himself on his memory; his brain never too full to add to his vast wealth of experience, stories, memories, nightmares and dreams. His heart would forever skip a beat as he remembered her first walk onto that red velvet carpet; taking her careful steps toward her future him. Her golden hair, her sparkling eyes, her amazing figure and her beautiful smile; all of it tucked carefully away in a pocket in his brain. Even their declaration of love last night had been another first for them; their official wedding night, and it was as perfect as he thought it would be.

Another Taylor, she had confessed to him. A family with you, were the words that made his heart swell. He and Claire had briefly talked about children, but always thought they'd have time. And as the years passed, Mac finally realized that time isn't something to be bartered with; it doesn't care what you want to do tomorrow; if your time is up, there is no amount of money in the world that it will accept as payment for a stay of execution. You have to seize what you have and enjoy it for as long as you can. And Mac had made up his mind before darkness consumed him last night that he too wanted a family with Stella and would do everything in his power to make it work. Dario has sped up his timeframe with Stella and looking back there were certainly things he would have wanted to have done differently, but as he gazed upon her beautiful face, he knew there wasn't anything he would change; life had thrown them a few curves but they survived them all and come out stronger and more in love than they ever imagined possible.

Stella wrinkled her nose, her brow slightly creased as her mind showed her another memory and Mac once again took a mental snapshot of the scene before him. Although still naked like him, her exposed olive skin was warm and inviting, his lips already wanted another taste. Her perfect red lips were slightly pursed, her warm breath tickling his naked chest; dark lashes danced with a few golden curls and her face was at peace. He was in love. It was a feeling he didn't tangle with lightly, having only given his heart away once before in his adult life. And while he knew Claire would always live on inside of him; a part of his memory dedicated to her, he was sure there would be no other woman she would have wanted than Stella to love and be his until he died.

Stella's body shifted once more in his loving arms and he was finally rewarded with emerald slowly meeting sapphire.

"Morning," she mumbled with a lazy smile.

"Good morning," he teased, kissing the top of her nose. "You smell good."

"Mmmmm you feel good," Stella sighed as her arms tightened around his chest, planting the first of many kisses on his bare chest. Her hair tickled his shoulder and he offered a smirk, instantly bringing her eyes back up to his.

"You are laughing at me Mr. Taylor?" She questioned, as she poked his side and instantly forced a small chuckle from his warm lips. "Better."

"Oh really?" He arched his brows, pulling her closer, his body once again well on its way to betraying his need for her. His warm lips started to gently kiss her forehead, as he planted warm nibbles on her eyes, nose and then her lips; tasted them with a little hesitation at first; but as her body further pressed into his, the hesitation was gone and full unbridled passion took over.

"Frisky this morning my love," Stella whispered as she tenderly sucked on his warm lobe, forcing a small groan from his lips, his body already hard and begging for her.

"That's every morning when I wake up with you Stella," his husky words made her slightly shiver. He gently pulled her on top of him, moved her willing body into position so he could declare his love and desire for her once again. "I need you," he confirmed, his warm hands gently but firmly held her bare back as her body arched into his as they started to make love. He felt her hands grip his shoulders and although his short nails would never dig into her skin, as their bodies moved in rhythm he didn't care what she did, in fact he was more turned on, as her nails gently dug into his smooth back.

"Oh Mac," he takes delight in her moans as she willingly gives her most intimate embrace to him; being just as rewarded as he for her efforts. His fingers intertwined with sweaty curls as her hand grasped the back of his head and their lips locked once more, tongues dancing, sweat forming.

"Oh gosh Stella," Mac moaned as their bodies reached climax, the sheets damp once again from the evidence of their need for each other. Stella gasped one final time before the room was quiet and still once more; two rapidly beating hearts accompanied by soft shallow breathing.

Mac's hand gently caressed her back, adding loving strokes to the dampness they created during their session. "You are warm," he whispered, adding one more soft kiss to her moist cheek.

"The term is hot," her eyes sparkled as she moved in to kiss his lips and then pulled away, and smiled.

"Tease," he frowned, as he tenderly pushed a stray golden curl off her damp forehead. Her faced glowed and her eyes shone with love; another picture perfect moment he would commit to memory, adding to the vast collection he had started on her over ten years ago. And while he never would have imagined they'd be right here when he first met here; there is no other place he'd rather be, he was home.

XXXXXXXX

Stella continued to look down at her loving husband with a contented expression. Growing up mostly unloved and unwanted she never imagined one day becoming the wife of her best friend; much less her partner. He was her rock, her strength and shield when she needed; her shoulder to cry on when wanted and her outlet for passion when time afforded. She too had committed to her extensive memory all the events of the past twenty-four hours; her mind reliving all the highlights in happy dreams as the night progressed.

Waking up to his handsome face made her years of turmoil and mistrust seemed to fade into insignificance; she was in love, truly, deeply. His arms were strong and supportive, yet kind and submissive; he was everything she needed him to be, when called on and she loved him all the more for it. It seemed like it had taken them forever to reach this point; this future always waiting for them, but mostly out of reach. And although destiny forced them down this road a little sooner than expected; this was the end result they were both working hard to achieve.

"What are you thinking about?" Mac asked, breaking her from her happy stupor.

"A man from my past," Stella answered with a slight frown. The power she had over him at times even overwhelmed her and as she felt his heart start to pick up the pace she knew he once again was thinking worst case scenario.

"Stella?" Mac questioned in a light tone; unsure of what to expect in reply. "Do I know him?"

"You do; although I think you know him better now than you did before," she replied, trying to keep her smile at bay a few minutes longer. But when his face displayed a nervous anxiety as he looked at her in wonder, she couldn't help but betray her reasoning.

"Who?"

"His name is Mac Taylor and when I first met him, I have to admit I was almost scared and told myself at that time I would never form a close friendship much less allow to grow the amazing bond we have today," she replied finally putting his mind at ease. "Or come to love him as much as I do right now."

"Thanks for easing my mind."

Stella felt Mac's chest offer a heavy sigh of relief and smiled as his warm lips curled into a half smile. "Who on earth would I be thinking about the morning after our wedding night?" She lightly scolded.

"I um...no one," he frowned, making her grin grow wider.

"As I said before, you have a lot to learn about me don't you," she stated, kissing his warm lips once more.

"Glad you're here to teach me," Mac smiled, kissing her back.

"And what else can I teach you?" Stella questioned, her brows arching playfully.

"How about a little Greek?" Mac asked. "After all, tomorrow we'll be in Athens and then I'll be even more lost than I am right now."

"Like it when you are lost," she teased, poking his side so he rewarded her with a small laugh. "That way I can take you home and have my way with you."

"Oh really?" Mac questioned, his turn to arch his brows. "Think you'd like that?"

"Yes very much," she smiled, poking him again, making him lightly gasp for air, before she finally stopped, just resting on his strong chest once more. "You see you think you might have the upper hand in this but you don't really."

"Well in this I must admit defeat," Mac sighed. "I think you always had the upper hand."

Stella kissed his nose and forced a light smile from his mouth as he planted one more firm kiss on her perfect lips. "We can stop and buy you one of those hand tourist phrase books," Stella teased and Mac just rolled his eyes. "My husband doesn't seem to be taking this very seriously," Stella frowned.

"Stella, we are going to Greece and you are Greek, what better tour guide could I have?" He countered looking at her with a triumphant grin.

"You seem pretty sure of yourself my smug husband," Stella laughed as she gently grabbed his inner thigh once more, offering a generous but loving squeeze, forcing another laugh from his warm lips.

"Stel-la," Mac laughed as he tried to get her hands under control. He finally gave up, slumped back in the warm King sized bed, face flushed and out of breath.

"Okay fine," Stella pouted as she flopped down beside him, his strong arms wrapped around her to ensure no more teasing until he had regained a bit of strength.

"Are you seriously wanting round two?"

"Too soon?" Stella teased.

"I'm not a young man," Mac frowned, Stella kissing the corner of his mouth and forcing a smile to grow as he gently grabbed some curls and forced her lips back to his.

"How are you going to be a father if you are too old?" She teased, making him pout. Her fingers tugged at his bottom lip before her own lips latch onto them, sucking it gently, forcing his body to gently buckle and his mouth to offer a soft moan.

"Stella," Mac whispered his core heating once more.

"Just making sure you still had it."

"What?" He huffed.

"Oh I think you know," she laughed as she finally sat up, her smooth olive back to him; begging his fingers for a touch. Stella smiled as she was rewarded with what she wanted, his warm fingers starting to rub her back with some force; gentle and loving as needed. "Mmm feels good," she rewarded him as he slowly sat up, gently moved her into his lap and started to massage her tense shoulders and neck.

"Stella, I thought you were free of tension. What is wrong?" Mac asked, leaning his chest against her naked back and planting warm kisses on her neck and shoulder.

"Mac that was a lot of build up to just disappear over night," Stella lightly winced as Mac's hands reached a knot and tried to loosen it. Her body tensed in his grasp and he quickly pulled back. "It's not your touch Mac," she offered, much to his relief. "Just need a holiday to really relax," she confessed, forcing lips to plant tender kisses on her warm skin once again.

"Mmm love the smell of morning Stella, especially right after we have sex."

"It's because I smell like you," she teased and he frowned.

"Not possible," he argued. "I don't like the smell of me. I like the smell of you."

"That is you!"

Stella laughed at him once again; as her body pressed his back into the warm pillows and held him trapped against soft pillow fortress. His arms wrapped around her, capturing her arms at her sides as his lips placed a warm kiss on her flushed cheek.

"I love you," Mac whispered in her ear as he kissed her once more, his warm breath sending small shivers down her spine. He pulled back, holding onto her as they allow silence to build. Some couples would find silence unnerving, even unsettling; but not them. For Mac and Stella just to be able to take a few minutes of silence to allow their minds to dwell on each other, all they had to overcome to be here and all the things that would yet lie ahead as they pondered their future together was almost comforting.

"Mac?" Stella finally broke the silence.

"Actually just wondering what kind of gifts we got," he confessed, forcing Stella to turn her neck around to look at him in wonder, a smile tugging at one side of her mouth.

"Well we do need a new coffee maker."

"But..."

"Mac, give it up. We are getting a new one." Stella offers a laugh and then gently rubs the part of Mac's arm that is exposed. "Can I ask you something?"

"Anything."

"When you agreed last night to having a family where you serious? Or was that just wedding fever talking?" She had to know, asking for an answer to put her mind at ease.

Mac gently turned her around to face him; wanting to talk to her face instead of the back of her head. "While it's true that you could probably make me do and agree to just about anything while we are making love; when it comes to something like that, it's a decision I don't just throw around lightly. I think I was a bit hesitant at first but I have always wanted to be a parent and I wouldn't want that joy with anyone else."

By the time he finished, her eyes were threatening glistening tears. Mac brought her face to his and kissed her closed eyes, watched as a salty tear escaped the corner and slid down her flushed cheek before he was quick to brush it away.

"I think you'll make an amazing mother," he whispered, as he kissed her ear.

"There will be challenges Mac," she reminded him.

"Oh I don't doubt that," he huffed, leaning his sweaty head back on the wall. Stella moved her body so that her own head rested on the crook of his shoulder as she looked up into loving eyes. "But we'll just have to learn how to balance work and life; I mean others do it. And we'll do it together right?"

"Of course. And I think you'll make an amazing father," Stella commends and he looks down at her with a warm smile. Just as he's about to say one more thing, his phone buzzes to life and both look at it with a frown. "Mac, you seriously aren't thinking about answering that are you?" She asked in wonder.

"No its..." he started, stretching his naked body across hers to reach for his blackberry only to offer a small laugh as her arms wrapped around him, holding him captive. She made a small biting sensation on his chest and he had to laugh once more as he tried to move himself to a better position. "I'm stuck," he lamented as she didn't let go.

"That's right you are," she teased, holding him firmly in her grasp; always thankful that he never used his strength to harm her or free himself of her playful mood. He finally succeeded in grasping the small device and then showed her the message.

'24 hour reminder to flight take off for Athens.'

She looked up at him with an arched brow. "Did you honestly think you'd forget that?"

"Stella, I plan everything, you know that," he moaned as he pushed the ignore button and then placed the device back on the table.

"I just don't want to leave this magical place."

"We don't have to leave just yet," Mac reminded her as he once again planted warm kisses on her bare shoulder, his nose wrinkled as stray curls ticked his sensitive skin.

"Well I guess we do need to get home and..."

"Stella we are taking advantage of room service and ordering breakfast," Mac stated firmly, looking at her with a small frown. But when he sensed hesitation, he was quick to ask for approval from the woman who always commanded his heart and future. "Is that okay?"

"Of course," she teased as he offered a small sigh of relief, reaching for his underwear. He pulled it on and then regrettably pushed himself out of bed and headed for the small room service menu and walked back to her, a smile on his face as he gazed at the beautiful, half naked woman in the large King sized bed, waiting for him to return.

"You look amazing this morning," he praised as he eased himself back to a seated position; his hands showed her the menu to ensure she was offered whatever she needed. "Anything you want to eat?"

"Hmm do they have a Mac Taylor on the menu. I want to eat him," she teased, making him slightly blush once more; his boyish embarassment something she relished in once again. Stella pushed herself upright, her naked chest now pressed up against his; his lips forced to smile as felt her breasts push against his back.

"Love the feeling of you pressed up against me," he confessed as she kissed his shoulder. "But seriously what did you want to eat?"

"Can I have you for dessert? Has enough time passed?"

"Oh my wife is frisky this morning," he teased, throwing at her the same line she used just over an hour ago.

"I love you Mac, can you blame me?"

"Hardly."

"Very well then," she nodded her head and he just smirked before he reached for the phone. As Mac ordered breakfast for them both, Stella put on her new satin robe and headed for the bathroom; her lips smiled at the glow of love on her face, Mac to blame for that. She quickly finished her tasks and then headed back outside; finally spied Mac on the balcony she made her way toward him.

"Come out here," Mac invited.

"You're not dressed," she patted his ass as she wrapped her arms around his waist and held him close, both basked in the warm sun as it continued to creep higher into the morning sky.

"I'm wearing all I need," he teased, forcing her to offer a pinch and his lips to utter a small yelp. "Hey."

"I guess you are."

"Not fair," he protested softly, his brain tugging at his body for another round. And while he knew he would make love to his wife once more before they left the room; he wanted to wait for the shower, knowing they'd need one anyways. Both lingered in the brisk morning air; their eyes watched as the area below them in Central Park was finally returned to its original state.

"Last night was amazing," Stella remembered, her lips producing a warm smile. Mac's arms pulled her tighter around him; ensured that he too was feeling the warmth their bodies offered. "And so was the wedding," she added and he chuckled.

"Yeah it was pretty magical."

"Magical?" She smiled.

"Too silly?" He wondered.

"No I like it. Last night was magical Mac. Can't wait to get the pictures back and then relive those memories all over again."

They lingered outside a few more minutes before a knock was heard at the door and Mac hurried to put on something more appropriate, grabbing the robe the hotel offered and covered his state of undress just as Stella opened the door and allowed the room service attendant to enter.

"Good morning Mr. and Mrs. Taylor," the young service man offered as he wheeled the silver cart over to the table by the window and quickly set up their breakfast offerings and then headed back to the main door; thanking Mac for his generous tip before taking his leave.

"Should I even ask how you are going to eat all that?" Mac questioned, looking at her heaping plate of Belgian waffles and bacon.

"My love you ordered the same," Stella reminded him as they both started to eat. "But don't worry, never to full to enjoy you," she stated, making him slightly blush.

"Right," was all his already overheated brain could afford his lips.

They continued with their breakfast, their conversation now focused on their upcoming move; after they returned from their honeymoon and what things they would use to purchase with the generous cash donations they had received. If indeed a family was to be coming then one of the bedrooms would be needed for that; the den would now have to serve the purpose of home office, compact gym and extra storage space.

Finally half hour had passed and both were just relaxing in their plush arm chairs, breakfast over and the promise of a busy but relaxing day ahead before their early morning flight to Athens; a new adventure only a few hours away.

XXXXXXXX

About an hour later Mac looked at himself in the bathroom mirror; almost willed his face to offer any other expression than a happy smile, but knew inside it wasn't possible. He was in love; in love with an amazing woman that made him feel like the only man on the planet. Claire had offered him some of that, but they weren't together long enough for their bond to really cement like his had with Stella; the woman who owned his heart.

He reached for the dials to the shower and just as he had turned on the hot water to allow steam to fill the room, he felt delicate warm fingers tugging on the waistband of his underwear; a smiled formed on his warm lips, his back still to his wife.

"A shower for two?" Stella wondered.

"A shower for one is overrated," he mentioned, turning around to face her with an enthusiastic grin.

"Ah. Well what are you waiting for? Strip already," she commanded, gently opening her satin robe to reveal her perfectly naked body.

"Yes ma'am," Mac quickly agreed, freeing himself of his last vestige of clothing; standing before her naked once again, his body already well on it's way to betraying his need for her. "Come here," he whispered, gently taking her hand as he led them into the large steamy walk in shower. Once inside his arms wrapped around her now wet flesh; pulled her lips to his once more and hungrily devoured them.

Mac was more than delighted with his wife's actions as she pushed him up against the warm tiles, holding his body captive against hers, her arms wrapped around his back and neck. Warm water splashed and danced around the heated couple as their newest love making adventure continued. Mac moved himself into position; his mouth on Stella's neck as her body arched once more into his.

"Oh god Stella, I need you," Mac groaned as his brain begged for a much needed release. She gently pushed his arms back against the tiles, keeping him trapped while they moved together as one. His lips produced a wide grin as she pulled back; which forced his body to lean in closer to hers, their flesh now melding together as one.

"Come to me Mac," she begged, as she nibbled on his ear lobe, which forced their bodies to buckle in unison. His movements were always strong and powerful; yet never did she feel anything but satisfaction and fulfillment; he was all she would never need in a lover and partner.

Mac's mouth offered one more gasp before Stella's lips produced her last moan, their session finally complete, the small space thick with warm moist haze. Mac leaned against the warm tile, his heart racing as he looked at Stella with amazement. "Each time is better and better," he whispered, making her face warm even further.

"You're pretty easy to love Mac," she confessed, as she slowly pulled apart from him, but pressed close once again; the water beating down on her back, damp curls pasted to her neck and shoulders.

Mac's mouth took one more firm kiss before he reached for the soap and playfully handed it to her. "Care to do the honors?"

"Oh that's a dangerous proposition."

"I like danger," Mac quipped and Stella just laughed.

"Oh really?" She arched a brow. "Arms up now!" She playfully demanded and he was happy to obey. However, as she started to rub the soap along his sensitive inner arms, he quickly pulled them back down, laughing at her actions. "Mac, you said you liked danger, now arms back up."

"No way Stella, that tickles too much."

"Okay fine," she huffed with a mock pout, turning to leave.

"What?" Mac asked in surprise, falling for her trap once again. "Very funny. Told you I was weak when it came to you."

Stella just turned around to face him with a smile before handing the soap back to him. "Just make it quick. And I get to watch."

"Ah well then so do I."

XXXXXXXX

About another hour after that, both were finally dressed and packing everything to head back home. The hotel had already picked up Mac's tux and delivered it back to the rental place; Stella's dress of course coming home with them. Mac put his small overnight bag by the door and then headed back to Stella who was fiddling with something in her hands. His arms wrapped around her; but he ensured his actions wouldn't hinder what she was doing.

"What is that?"

"My earring broke," she lamented, holding up the small piece of jewelry for his warm blue eyes to inspect.

"Can it be fixed?"

"Hope so," she sighed as she gently wrapped it in a piece of tissue and then twisted herself around in his loving embrace. She looked up at him with a smile, blue mixing with green once again as she planted a warm kiss on his inviting lips. "Time to go home?"

"Time to go home," he confirmed as they pulled part and slowly headed for the door; the day already half over.

The warm afternoon sun greeted the happy couple as they got into the waiting cab and finally headed for home. The cab passed by their new apartment; one that was now waiting for the couple to come and claim it as their own. They finally reached their current apartment and let themselves in; greeted by a large banner that read: 'congratulations Mac & Stella!' Both faces displayed warm smiles as Mac closed the door and looked at Stella in love.

"We should save that."

"Getting quite sentimental, aren't you my loving husband?" Stella teased and Mac looked at her with mock hurt.

"I kinda like it. No?"

"Why not? If you like it, then we'll keep it," Stella assured him as she slowly headed into their bedroom to put her dress away; her overnight bag would be next. By the time she headed back into the main living area to find Mac, he had arranged all the gifts by their couch so they could spend the next hour or so opening them together.

"See Mac, we did get a new coffee maker, this one even makes espresso and steamed milk," Stella gushed over the brand new stainless steel device in her hands.

"Whatever happened to just a regular cup of coffee?"

"Could you go back to just regular?" Stella arched a brow, his face instantly blushed as her eyes continued to penetrate his.

"Oh I guess not," Mac huffed as he took the new device and slowly walked into the kitchen, Stella following.

"What are you doing?"

"Setting it up," he informed her. "No?"

"Mac, we'll be moving in less than a month. We need all the boxes for moving; less to pack up."

"But..."

"That only means you get to enjoy that, a bit longer," she pointed to his old coffee maker; his face offered an automatic frown. "Come on Mr. Sentimental," she teased, taking him by arm as she dragged him back into the living room to continue with the gift opening. "We have a few more to go and you then you two can reminisce later," she teased, forcing him to roll his eyes as he sat back down beside her.

"What on earth is this?" Mac wondered as he held up the odd looking cylinder with holes in it. "Why would you need a bowl with holes in it?"

"It's a colander Mac, it's for draining pasta."

"Right. Okay, anything familiar?" He huffed, making her kiss his cheek and laugh at his boyish ignorance once again. After they were finished both Mac and Stella rested in each other's arms; a myriad of new appliances and other items scattered at their feet.

"So do we just pack this all up and wait for the move?" Mac questioned, hearing Stella's stomach start to lightly rumble.

"Mac for a man unsure at first you catch on pretty quick. Did you want to go and spend some quality alone time with Mr. Coffee?"

"Nice try," Mac laughed. "I'd like to spend some quality alone time with Mrs. Coffee."

"And who is she?" Stella pressed, as she playfully crossed her arms; as she pretended to be upset.

"She is my whole life," Mac whispered as he kissed her cheek. But upon hearing her stomach rumble, his brow creased and he looked at her in concern. "I'm hungry too," he confessed. "Do we even have anything in the fridge?"

"Well since we will be eating out quite a bit for the next two weeks, I think a home cooked meal is in order. Unless you'd rather go out?" She lightly questioned.

"I want to stay in," he smiles warmly, as he gently turned her head to face his, offered a warm smile before he tasted her lips once more. "And I get to choose dessert."

"No way, I'm having Mac Taylor for dessert," she stated firmly, making his grin widen.

"Sounds good to me. What do you need me to do?"

"You can clean up the trimmings and I'll make dinner. Then afterward we can make another room messy."

"Love it when you talk dirty," he teased.

Stella busied herself making dinner as Mac cleaned up the gift remnants. He repacked what he could, stacked them in the corner and then left the rest out for Stella to put where she needed. Finally when he was finished he headed back into the kitchen, a smile displayed upon his lips as he watched his wife as she put dinner on the table.

"Smells great," he praised.

"You are biased."

"And hungry," he admitted as they both sat down to the modest meal she prepared. Half way through his dinner, Mac started to slow in actions; forcing Stella to offer a look of concern.

"Mac? Something wrong? Dinner not good?"

"Dinner is great. Actually I am wondering what I have to pack for our trip," he lightly frowned. "When I was in the Marine's all that I needed fitted into a small rucksack. This is a little more complicated than that."

"When was the last time you took a real holiday?" She questioned.

"Define real."

"As in away from the office. Central Park doesn't count."

"Funny."

Stella offered a warm smile as she looked at her husband as he continued to fidget with his napkin. "Mac, do you need some help?"

"I think I might."

"It'll cost you," she teased and he looked at her with a shy smile.

"What do I have to do?" He dared to ask and her grin widened.

"Oh you'll just have to wait and see. First you have to help me clean up the dishes."

"Another strip tease?" He tried and she just shook her head.

"Stop guessing," she scolded and he frowned once more.

"Another..."

"Mac!"

"Stella, you can't just tell me that and expect me not to wonder."

"Maybe the cost will be you going to bed without dessert," she teased and Mac pouted as he followed her into the kitchen with the rest of the dishes in his hand. "Or maybe I'll force you to give me a strip tease," she smiled, turning around to take the plates.

"Yeah su..." she planted a warm kiss on his lips before he could finish his predicted protest.

XXXXXXXX

With a small look of defeat Mac headed out of the kitchen and into their main bedroom, taking down his suitcase to pack for their flight to Athens tomorrow. He retrieved a small toiletry bag and then started to put a few items into large open space before he finally felt her presence; silent as she just watched.

"I would have helped."

"I was being selfish," he stated in a soft whisper; his eyes remained on the task at hand.

"Mac?"

"I could make love to you all day," he confessed as he looked up with as a soft smile formed upon his lips. "And you did say we were going to start a family right?"

Stella just shook her head as she moved in closer, the bedroom started to warm with each step she took. He watched her with love and devotion; his heart had already begun to race with anticipation. And while he didn't want to presume another passionate love making session, his body was already prepared in case she was.

"What am I to do with you?" She sighed lovingly, gently brushing a few dark strands off his tensed brow.

"Whatever you want," he dared, a hint of playfulness already betraying his need for her.

"That is a dangerous proposition," she whispered, gently pressing her body up against his, feeling his body instantly start to betray itself to her. Her fingers danced around the waistband of his dark jeans, her lips already tempting his.

Mac pulled back, twisted around and carefully pushed the half filled suitcase onto the floor; yanked the covers back, before he turned around to face her with a warm smile. "Come here," he whispered, happy when her actions rewarded his request. "My turn to undress you," he continued, his mouth nearing hers, his lips gently tasting before hungrily devouring. His warm hands gently lifted her sweater, before his lips planted warm kisses on her ample breasts.

Mac felt himself falling backward onto the bed before Stella pounced on him, straddling his waist and holding his wrists above his head while her lips devoured his. Her tongue started to invade his mouth once again, as she forced his arms to flex and his mouth to offer muffled moans as she continued to tease him.

"I need you," Mac whispered as she slowly pulled back.

"I can see that," Stella teased. "Move up onto the bed!" She demanded and Mac's heart is already racing in anticipation.

More than happy to comply, Mac moved himself higher up on their bed, allowing Stella to produce his favorite toy; the fuzzy handcuffs and capture his willing wrists above his head; his body now vulnerable for her pleasure.

"Time for your punishment Mac," Stella whispered as she planted one more hungry kiss on his lips and then pulled back. However, much to his dismay, Stella slowly moved herself of, leaving him trapped on the bed alone.

"Stella?" Mac asked in agony, his body on fire.

"I'm going to pack for you," she smiled as her eyes gazed down upon her handsome husband, trapped and ready for her to take.

"What?" He managed weakly. "Stella, I am in agony here. You can't just leave me like this," he gulped, his jeans still on and his body in pain.

"Oh yes I can."

"What?"

"Told you my help would cost and so you can just lay there and relax while I..."

"Relax? Stella please," Mac begged, his face on fire and his brow damp.

"Oh that's right, I need to change first," Stella continued as she turned around, slowly removing her jeans.

His body buckled as she stripped down to her lacy underwear; his strength almost breaking the toy handcuffs in the process.

"Mac, you break those and I swear I'll make you sleep on the couch alone," she lightly scolded turning around to offer her struggling husband a view of flesh and lace.

"Stella, you can't do this to me. I need you," Mac struggled against the cuffs, his face flushed and his mind racing with anticipated ecstasy. "Please?"

"Oh very well," she smiled; knowing it was hard to see him in such a delectable state and not want to have her way with him; as much as he wanted her to. She once again moved herself beside him, slowly unzipping his jeans and then pulling them down, leaving just his underwear and t-shirt. She gently slid up his undershirt, planting warm kisses around his belly button, gently nibbling and forcing his body to once again beg for his much needed release.

"Stella," Mac lightly gasped as her actions forced his body to reward her with taut movements, his muscles flexing as her tongue would tease new sensitive areas. She pushed his undershirt up to his shoulders, as her lips continued to plant warm kisses all the way to the scar above is heart; his arms flexing as he tried to pull free.

"Don't pull," she ordered, as she planted warm kisses on his muscles; the arms she loved so much. Finally, much to his relief she gently removed his underwear and moved herself into position, his body already on its way to offering his release into her. She gripped his strong arms; her mouth once again locked with his and silencing his pleasurable groans with hungry kisses as her lips devoured his as their bodies continued to move together.

Stella's back arched into his as their rhythm increased; Mac still begging to hold her. Her fingers gripped sweaty hair as she kept his head captive, her tongue gently licking the sensitive creases of his tender ears. Finally, much to his delight she undid one of the cuffs and immediately his fingers wrapped in sweaty curls, bringing her mouth back to his as he offered whatever passion was still inside.

"Stella..." he gasped as their neared climax. "Oh Stella I love you," he whispered into her ear as he planted warm kisses on her bare neck, his other hand gently gripped her naked back.

"Make me feel your love Mac," Stella breathed; almost spent of her energy reserve as well. Her back arched into his body as he glistened in the dimly lit room; his naked flesh warm and inviting to the touch; his energy reserve almost drained as well.

His ears relished in the delightful sound of her last gasp as she received all he could offer and soon the room was still; Stella's body tired but certainly not disappointed as she flopped down on his bare chest, her head rested on his shoulder; curls spilled over naked flesh.

"Will you ever tire of hearing me tell you how amazing you are each time?" Mac asked, forcing her glistening green eyes to lock with his warm blue ones.

"Will you?" She countered; forcing a soft smirk from his flushed lips.

"Never," he grinned. "But I think we set a record today. Practise right?"

"Three times in one day? Mac we might have quadruplets," she teased, forcing a small groan from his mouth.

"Well you were amazing. Can you blame me," Mac praised, as his warm fingers gently stroked her back. "Do I still get help to pack?"

"You are really pushing it aren't you?" She laughed, as she looked back up at him with a loving gaze. As she finally sensed a bit of inward frustration on his part she was quick to put his mind at ease. "I would love to help you. Besides then I can pack all my favorite things."

"Stella you buy most of my clothes."

"What are you saying Mac?"

"Well wouldn't they all be your favorite?"

"No."

"Okay so which ones don't you like?"

Stella just leaned and kissed his lips, without answering. "I like you, what else matters?"

Mac's lips offered a thankful grin as he pulled her head back to his shoulder; her mouth rewarded him with a smile as his arms held her close.

"I love you Mac Taylor, with all my heart," she confessed as he pulled a sheet up over them.

"I love you too Stella Taylor, with all my heart. Can't wait for Greece."

"Can't wait for our new future."

"Our new family."

~Albany, New York~

A long female figure sat on the small ledge of the dusty bay window, as she looked out into the dead of night; the darkness that now mirrored what she felt inside. Dead and alone; those were two words she used to describe herself now. Once vibrant and full of promise; before she was shipped to the institution that had tried in vain to rehabilitate her. And while she had learned to tell them exactly what they wanted to hear; she only had one thought on her mind to get back to New York City; the only place that ever allowed her to be herself, no questions asked.

Her once bright eyes; now haunted and devoid of love and feeling, stared into the murky blackness of night that now bathed the landscape before her as her mind continued to repeat over and over again the statement she would offer in a few days; a statement she prayed would afford her the opportunity of escape from the hell she was cast into. Her father had taken all that was pure and descent from her; forced her into a future she wasn't ready for and didn't want. But another man came along; a man who had pulled back from death's door and offered a new future; one she now clinged to with every breath she took.

She'd never blame the one person who told her to seek help; in her mind she told herself he did it because he wanted to help her; he loved her and needed her to get better. Each night she would fall asleep, pretending to be held in his strong arms as his fingers stroked her hair as he would tell her she was loved and needed by him. Each day she would stand in front of the mirror, combing her dirty blond hair as she practiced the smile she would offer when she re-entered his life.

He had told her to get help; suggested she seek counseling and emotional assistance from those that knew how to deal with her special situations. He had given her the name of the facility in upstate New York, his words suggested it was the best and she deserved the best.

"When you love someone you only want the best for them," she falsely reasoned when she willingly entered the treatment center six months ago. Now with just a month or so to go; she knew in her heart she was ready to take back what belonged to her.

"LIGHT'S OUT!" A loud voice called into the hallway; forcing the din of conversation to die to a hushed whisper as the other girls went about getting ready for bed.

She was no exception; she wanted to prove to those around her that she was now fit to re-enter society and be with the man she loved in her heart; a heart that was as twisted as her mind. And while she told those around her that the rehabilitation program worked, inside, her mind knew the lies she told were contrived and false; she had no intention of changing anything, she was fine the way she was.

She hummed a small tune to herself as she slowly got ready for bed. She passed by a small picture on her dresser, a picture of the man she loved; a photo taken on her cell phone when he wasn't aware. She told herself she captured him in his natural state and he would be okay with that. She told herself that when she came back into his life he would be pleased with the results and want her to stay with him, possibly forever? She told herself that he never loved before and was waiting for her. She told herself whatever lies she needed in order to get through the day; lies she believed; words of untruth.

"Ella?"

"I'm out!" She called with a whispered curse as she turned off the light and covered herself, curled into a ball and closed her eyes. And as was her nightly ritual; before darkness would consume her, she would whisper the same six words she hoped would come true very soon.

'Goodnight Mac, I'll see you soon.'

A/N: okay so what did you think of the beginning? Much like playing, this story will build the tension and peril as Ella is set to return, but finding of course Mac married to Stella (who didn't like or trust her) and about to start a new family. What will happen? Please let me know if you want me to continue so you can find out. Thanks again in advance, you guys ROCK!!