_Chapter 21_

The pixilated digits on the clock changed; the tiny motion perceived by the detective as she drummed her pen in the air. She was fidgeting, needlessly. With a huff of annoyance, she tossed her pen to her desk, closed her eyes, and took three deep breaths. It was a practice adopted from her counterpart's morning yoga routine.

Maura.

Jane smiled before opening her eyes. She looked at the photo occupying the space next to her computer. Adjusting the silver frame so the photo faced her more squarely, she gazed upon her and Maura, observing the overlooked affinity. If only the photo could come alive, Jane mused. She could watch the loop of hazel glancing subtly between lips and eyes. Where the poised, assured doctor vacillated on whether to stare or kiss the woman in front of her. Apricity-the warmth of the sun in winter- a word introduced to the detective by the blonde, was the best way she could describe how she revered her. The intensity of her gaze still caused Jane's chest to flutter and her smile to pull a little tighter.

One year with Maura and she had grown comfortable with her own paradigm shift. The fears of uncertainty, especially from others, had dissipated and a new confidence stirred. It was as if her life had new meaning, which, in reality, it did. Maura, and her love for Maura, added fuel to the fire of her life's passions. Sure, they were able to work passionately side by side, but the sensation to do better, achieve greater, and come home alive had taken on a new reason. Out was the badass, workaholic detective with vendetta-weighted caseloads and in was the resilient, detective who no longer pressed her luck because she had everything to lose.

Cavanaugh softly cleared his throat, interrupting the team's quiet work musings. "Afternoon team," he spoke.

Each of Boston's finest stopped and turned toward their boss.

"Cavanaugh," Korsak's low voice sounded in acknowledgement. Frost and Frankie nodded to their superior as they came to stand at the side of Korsak's desk, while Jane spun in her chair to face the man directly.

"We've received communication from NY's Commissioner," he handed Jane two pieces of paper, "formally inviting members of Boston's PD to this years' Policeman's Banquet in celebration of unification. In particular to efforts demonstrated by Sergeant Korsak's division." Jane scanned over the letter after looking at the embossed text and emblem of the invitation and passed it to her brother. There was a beat before Cavanaugh spoke again.

"They would appreciate a speech from our own Detective Jane Rizzoli to rouse the spirits and ignite motivation for their recent academy graduates."

"Sir?" Frankie questioned. "For clarification, we're all attending?"

"Yes," his superior answered. "In fact," he cleared his throat, "the Governor practically demanded it." The news delivered matter-of-factly.

"So," he continued, "best get those blues of yours pressed."

Jane peered through the blinds of Maura's office. The Medical Examiner, with the desk phone pressed to her ear, nodded while she sat at her computer. Jane pressed opened the unlatched door making her presence known to the blonde. Maura lifted her index finger; one moment, she silently conveyed. While the blonde continued her conversation, Jane took note of Maura's silver frame, mirroring the location of hers back upstairs. An ever-present reminder they both indulged in while on the clock. Coming to lean on the corner of Maura's desk, Jane folded her arms and took in the new decor that sat throughout the office.

"I do appreciate it," Maura spoke into the phone. "Yes, of course. Thank you." She sighed heavily, placing her phone on her desk before addressing the brunette. "To what do I owe the pleasure?" she asked innocently.

Jane smirked, actively choosing to bite her tongue.

"We've been invited to attend the Policeman's Banquet in New York hosted by the NYPD; our Governor is insisting the members of our unit attend."

"That's quite the honor," the doctor responded, typing the toxicology report. The detective smirked at her diligence.

"It's black tie," Jane added.

"We will need to get your uniform pressed," Maura stated, eyes still on the report.

The brunette shifted and leaned over the desk, weight heavy on her hands, slated in a domineering stance. She spoke, voice low and raspy, "The only 'pressing' my uniform should experience is against you, Doctor Isles."

Maura's eyes snapped to Jane's as her hands immediately stilled, throat dry. A manicured eyebrow arched and she swallowed. The psuedo-interrogation demeanor always caused Maura's body to react involuntarily.

"Glad to see I have your attention now," Jane taunted. She stood and handed the embossed card to the seated woman.

"I have a plus one," her voice softened, "and I need you by my side."

Maura beamed.

"Of course."

The ride to New York was a small taste of luxury for the group. Maura, having cashed in a favor, reserved limo service for the eight-hour trip to the Big Apple and back. The ride included drinks, privacy, and plenty of room for all four of Boston PD's finest and their plus ones to stretch their legs. The fact they all managed to be off for a weekend told them the Governor was serious about building the rapport between the cities.

The guest of honor and her date sat next to each other on the backbench of the limousine. Directly to their left sat Frost, his date, Ida, the recent addition to the team. Frankie, their mother Angela, Korsak, and Kiki filled in the long stretch of bench. Jane leaned forward, topping off each champagne glass, hers included, before clearing her throat to make a toast.

"To family," she raised her glass, "and to the endless pursuit of justice. Cheers!" The jingling of champagne flutes ended her toast as the echo of cheers mixed with the jovial vibe in their limousine.

The sun cast evening light as the limo exited the interstate and ventured through the main one-ways of the city. Other service cars and black expeditions merged, traveling to the venue of the Ritz Carlton. They passed mounted officers and paused briefly to proceed through the barricade. The driver presented the list of passengers to the security detail before following the designated route for vehicles to the drop off location. The partition rolled down and their driver stated the doors would be opening soon.

Maura reapplied her lipstick and evaluated the loose yet elegant updo to make sure she was presentable. Jane smirked. The detective leaned in and whispered into her ear, "Keep reapplying it and I'll want to smudge it off." Her lips nipped secretively on the spot behind Maura's ear, which drove her wild. Maura's skin prickled in gooseflesh, she had to pull away, for decency sake.

The door opened and one by one they exited, each date looping arms with their regalia clad Bostonian. Swiftly they made their way across the roped area leading into the Grande Hotel- much like that of the red carpet, except more blue. Mounted patrols held station to the right and left of the entrance as troopers stood stoically monitoring the comings and goings. There were a surprising number of paparazzi capturing photos; some wore local news logos, others were impeccably dressed. Jane noted their presence and placed her hand on the small of Maura's back, as if to shield her while making their way to the entrance.

"Detective Rizzoli a photo please!" A young man shouted at the group. The taller woman turned to Maura. Their eyes met and Maura nodded. Jane swallowed and pressed her hand firmly into the blonde. She gave a nervous smile before maneuvering the two of them to the flashing.

Maura followed, breathless in the choice to be included. They posed, Jane's hand still pressing, pushing Maura's body close. The flashes continued and blinded each woman.

Maura couldn't help but turn her gaze to the officer who held her. She smiled dazzlingly, lost in the moment. The hand on the small of her back patted her gently.

"Maura," Jane said through her smile.

"Yes," Maura asked, still doting over her partner.

"Maura," the brunette met her gaze, their eyes dancing for the quickest of seconds. "They're calling you," she rasped and mirrored the blonde's smile.

"Doctor! Doctor Isles! Over here!" A few voices shouted with the flashing.

"Who are you wearing?" Another asked.

The roar of the small gathering began ringing in her ears. Blushing, Maura licked her lips and adjusted her position, melding their bodies more intimately for the perfect couple's pose. Who knew the many secret hours of adolescent practice for the red carpet would finally come to fruition.

Jane watched rapt as the woman in her arms met the onslaught with poise and elegance. The gentle pat of the hand now resting against her torso reminded Jane to look at the cameras.

"Detective, Doctor! To your right!"

More flashes and more shouts.

"How about a kiss?" The young man from the side called.

Maura patted Jane's side and stepped away. "Let's go." She directed, leading the detective to turn away.

"What no kiss?" Jane asked playfully, their backs to the paparazzi.

"Always leave them wanting more," Maura smirked as the two entered with the group.

"Aren't we Miss Popular," Frost joked.

"Don't be jealous," Jane teased.

"Can we move it along," Frankie interjected, "I can smell the food from here."

Assuredly through the front doors they went, coming to the stationed guards at the entrance hall. They all walked the security route, through the metal detector, scanned with a wand, and finally sniffed by the K-9 unit.

"Affiliation," an intimidating man dressed in a black suit with an earpiece inquired.

"Boston PD," Jane answered.

"Credentials," he demanded. All eight of them retrieved their appropriate identification and presented them to a young guard who compared each to a list.

"You are all seated at table seven. Gia will take to your table. Welcome."

They all eyed the large man as they passed, all except Frost.

"Frosty." The giant gave a nod.

"Kaléb," Frost nodded in return.

"You know him?" Jane asked out the side of her mouth as they walked down the hall.

"Street ball back in the day." Frost gave a shrug.

"I bet he kicked your ass," Frankie commented in jest.

"You mean how Jane does to you?" Angela piped in. They shared a small laugh.

"Man, he's big but he's fast. Glad to know he's on our side," Frost finished.

They followed Gia into the ballroom. The space was decorated with lavish navy and gold tapestries, ornate floral arrangements, pixie lights, and the sound of merriment.

"The open bars can be found at the room's rear corners," Gia informed as each basked in the lavishness.

"The buffet tables are also located towards the back of the room. Detective Rizzoli,"

"Yes." Jane answered.

"You will be following the Welcome portion, Sergeant Meyers will introduce you."

Jane nodded and squeezed tighter to where Maura had locked arms.

"Please know you are among family," Gia continued, "as a detective in training, it's best to speak honestly, and more importantly, from the heart." The young woman shared, leading them across the room. "I am your hostess and cover for this evening, if anything should arise."

"Thank you Gia," Angela gushed.

"My pleasure and thank you." She gestured to a waiter. "Phillip will serve you once the ceremony begins. Please enjoy yourselves." Gia bowed and excused herself to a long table that sat along the wall a few yards away. More young officers took their seats along the table as guests arrived.

They all took turns getting drinks and making their way through the buffet.

"You have to eat more than bread, Jane," Angela mothered as the three of them made their way through a portion of the buffet.

"Ma, not now please." Jane urged.

"She's right, dear," Maura agreed emolliently, "besides the food may not be available after we begin."

"Can I have a slice of pumpkin pie then?"

Maura playfully narrowed her eyes in resistance. Jane raised her eyebrows, silently mouthing the word please repeatively.

"Fine, but only because pumpkin is easy on the stomach."

"Yes." Jane championed, pumping her fist close to her body.

"Such a child," Angela sighed rolling her eyes.

Pie in hand, Jane reached for the spoon of whipped cream and ladled a hefty dollop onto her large slice. She reached for another dollop.

"Dairy," Maura puffed in her ear, gently clasping Jane's hand, "on the other hand, is terrible for acidity in the stomach." Her hand slowly glided up Jane's uniform clad arm, "but delicious on the tongue."

The warmth of Maura's exhale tickled Jane's ear and the blonde accented her point by tapping her finger into the cream on Jane's plate and sucking it from her finger. The detective swallowed and dropped the spoon.

Angela shook her head, rolling her eyes in feigned annoyance.

In all, it was a rare occasion where the eight of them could come together and celebrate without worry, without interruption or chaos. The normalcy of being able to laugh together while being removed from the hostility and toxic underbelly of nefarious acts and intentions always seemed to oddly coincide with luxury rather than with the mundane. However, within the past year, there had been conscious effort to shift up the bell curve, out of more danger and into more stability. The night served as a reminder that there was more to life than justice and sleep.

After a second slice of pie and reassurance from Gia that the food would be available after her speech, Jane's nerves settled. A recent graduate from the academy began welcoming the attendees. Sergeant Meyers stood at the podium and congratulated the hard work exhibited by the individuals in attendance, acknowledging the top in the class, which included Gia.

"It is with great honor to introduce our next speaker." Meyers addressed the audience.

"With astounding work ethic and dedication, I would like to welcome from Boston Police Department, Detective Jane Rizzoli." Applause broke out and showered the room.

Jane stood from her seat and straightened her uniform. With her cap tucked under her arm, she walked the distance to the stage, straight faced, nerves disguised as they began to churn in her stomach. She shook hands with Sergeant Meyers as he spoke earnestly. "Thank you, Detective Rizzoli."

Jane smiled and turned to the podium, resting her cap on the stand.

"Good evening," she looked out to the sea of faces, adorn in blue, and paused.

"It's," she exhaled, "it's really nice to be here among family." Frankie, Angela, Frost, and Maura smiled to her. The tension in her shoulders lessened and her nerves eased.

"Choosing this profession isn't about yourself." She allowed her statement to settle amongst the crowd.

"It's about the stranger sitting ten tables away from you," she looked about the room. "It's for your partner, and their families, your neighborhoods and communities. To wear this uniform shows your selflessness and sacrifice. In fact, it is a direct reflection of your character, which has led you to where you are this evening. You are here, in this room, because of your willingness, your tenacity to serve. And to protect. Some of you have learned that means a lot of sleepless nights and...and pain." She felt her palm absentmindedly but never looked down.

"Yet our profession is filled with amazing opportunities to execute justice, bring closure, and reunite souls."

Jane glanced at Maura.

"Do not let it consume you," she paused, "whatever is driving your passion, how it motivates you." The detective looked between the attentive faces. "I've made the mistake of letting work rule my life and, uh," she swallowed, "it almost cost me mine." There was a pregnant pause as fellow attendees recognized the weight, the cost, of their profession. Jane cleared her throat.

"I've learned recently that living life can be just as adrenaline filled as tackling the perp you've spent a quarter mile chasing." A collective chuckle rolled over the room.

"Find your strengths and use them- frequently. You're a part of a great team and extended family." She offered a smiled regarding the younger adults in the room. "We've got your six. Congratulations." Jane finished with a nod and placed her cap on her slick hair. The room erupted with applause as she stepped away from the podium. Sergeant Meyers stopped her from exiting the stage.

"Wait," he told her.

"Detective Rizzoli," her name sounded over the speakers as a Detective Ruiz took the microphone. She stirred with confusion as the Sergeant smiled at her.

"It is with great appreciation," Detective Ruiz continued, "that we recognize your hard work and your endless pursuit of justice, which has solved a series of cold cases and has shut down a large New England mafia cartel, restoring several local small businesses and families. On behalf of the NYPD, we present to you the Bridging Community Recognition Award."

Jane's table sat in surprise, clapping wildly along with the crowd.

"With the support of several anonymous donors, a scholarship program has been established to allow students of the academies to partake in a interstate immersion exchange. These immersion programs will allow our next generation of officers to work directly with communities and have a broader understanding of the surrounding area. These programs will open new opportunities for higher levels of defense."

Stunned, Jane held the plaque in her hands and read the embossing.

Bridging Community
Detective Jane C. Rizzoli
Boston Police Department

Sergeant Meyers and the Police Chief shook Jane's hand and posed for a photo.

"And with this news, I would like to award five recipients in attendance tonight." Sergeant Meyers politely asked if Jane would help pass out the awards. She nodded, pride stricken.

"Erik Byers."

"Natalie Williams."

"Gia O'Dell."

"LaTorell Gage."

"Joshua Slack."

All of the youthful graduates took the stage and shook their hands. Gia and Jane shared a silent moment as the two shared a hug. The five came to stand astutely on stage and the room erupted with applause once again. A photographer snapped several photos before scurrying off to the opposite side of the stage. A moment later Jane was dismissed from her post and returned to her seat, stunned.

"Simply beautiful," Maura murmured in a low voice. Jane smiled, leaned in, and kissed Maura's lips purposefully.

"I wouldn't be here without you babe," Jane spoke against Maura's lips before capturing them once more.

"Wow," Maura hummed in a low voice, delicately holding the wooden edges as she examined the plaque. Jane smirked as they all walked down the hall.

Maura slowed her walk to a saunter, as she looked over to her girlfriend in full uniform.

"Stop it," Jane chided flirtatiously.

"Hey you two," Frost interjected, "we passed a utilities closet." He jetted his thumb over his shoulder.

"Stop it," Jane scolded.

Maura bit her lower lip and tucked her head to hide her laughter.

The rest of the group continued out and into the evening air as the two women straggled behind.

"You really are awe-inspiring," Maura complimented the raven-haired woman.

"Thanks." Jane's raspy voice caused the blonde to stop and gaze upon her. The urge to kiss her was overpowering yet the doctor restrained as the crowd continued to spill out into the night.

"I saw that look," Jane commented walking towards the limo the other six found themselves in.

Maura bit her lower lip and slowed her walk, grinning cunningly to herself.

Jane stepped forward to open the door of the limo for Maura. It was locked. She pulled at it twice more.

"What the?" She tapped the window. "Hey, open up."

The window rolled down a fraction.

"Sorry, private party," Frost jeered.

Maura chuckled to herself.

"Ha ha, very funny," Jane retorted dryly, "open up."

"Password?" Giggling could be heard from inside.

"Open the door," Jane demanded, "Police!" She tried to play along.

"No can do," Frankie popped his face into view; the window dropped a bit more.

"Frankie, unlock the door."

"Sorry we're full," Angela added and immediately giggled with Kiki.

"Ma! Don't encourage them."

"Jane," Maura called as she opened the door to a car behind the limo. She gave Jane a lopsided smirk and raised one pristine eyebrow.

"Have a good evening," Frost added before rolling up the window. The limo slowly eased away from the curb.

"Can you believe this!?" Jane asked animatedly as she approached Maura.

"Yeah, I can actually." Maura responded. "Come on," she offered, motioning with her head as she disappeared into the new town car.

"Wait, what's going on?" Jane inquired, stopping at the open door, looking down at Maura as she made herself comfortable in the black vehicle.

"Get in, we need to go," Maura patted the seat next to her, beckoning the detective to join.

Jane, perplexed, paused only a moment before ducking down into the car with her partner. She took in the surrounding, hypervigilant, glancing from the driver to the doors, from the open bottle of champagne and two flutes resting in a custom perch and back the blonde.

Maura invited herself into the brunette's space, gently rubbing her bicep as reassurance. Jane's body immediately relaxed at the close proximity. Maura reached for the flutes and the bottle.

"What is this?" Jane inquired softer, apprehension dissipated.

The doctor gave a smirk, biting on her tongue; an eyebrow raised and fell just as quickly. It was a signature tell Jane had discovered, a flirtatious one, no less. One often accompanied with an intimate gesture or surprise, each as thrilling and novel as the last. It caused a wave of anticipated excitement to wash over the woman, leaving her throat a little dry.

The flute, now bubbling with translucent gold, was placed into her hand and Maura returned, nuzzling closer still.

"A toast," she finally answered, bringing her glass to Jane's. A soft chime resonated from the crystal. Jane watched as Maura brought the glass to her lips in a seductive manner and savored the alcohol on her tongue. The sight stole the brunette's breath.

Pleased with her affect, Maura leaned closer, lips brushing the shell of Jane's ear before teasing the woman with a groan of satisfaction.

"You know," her words danced on a soft puff of air, erecting gooseflesh down Jane's arm, "it's rude not to drink to a toast."

Jane swallowed.

"Especially, when you are the guest of honor," Maura finished, letting her tongue glide, albeit repressed, along the warm cartilage.

Eyes hooded, Jane met the smug twinkle glinting with mirth as Maura brought the flute back to her lips.

"It's almost like I should be punished," Jane amused.

"There shall be nothing of the sort," Maura countered. "Besides," Maura's free hand came to inch the glass closer to Jane's mouth, "it's Lefevre Brut."

It was Jane's turn to raise an eyebrow. "The Lefevre Brut," she rasped, bringing the liquid to her lips.

"Oui."

The moan fell from Jane's mouth unintentionally and it caused Maura to titter through her nose.

Jane tipped back the flute again, relishing in the taste that coated her tongue.

"I cannot wait to taste this on you," Maura added.

"No need to wait, baby," Jane husked, her hand coming to caress Maura's neck, pulling her close where their lips found each other. Gradually, pressure was added and lips parted. It was Maura who sought entrance first, sweeping over her lower lip once before coming to taste the warmth that was Jane.

The detective moaned; her fingers eager to tangle in blonde waves hindered by the up-do. Images of nipping champagne-laden skin settled in the back of Jane's mind. Perhaps she could simply ask the driver to stop and get out. Actually, the idea of ceasing their momentum was deemed ludicrous and the thought died as quickly as it came.

The kissing continued meticulously and brazenly for several long moments. Had there been more space, Maura would be astride the detective, while hands, no doubt, would encourage grinding hips against her freshly pressed uniform.

"Doctor Isles," the driver addressed professionally, "we've arrived." The vehicle having stopped, he exited the driver's seat.

The two came to a natural denouement, unabashed by the interruption. The back passenger door opened and the two made no quick work to part.

"I've got a surprise," Maura confessed.

"Oh yeah?" Jane asked, rubbing her nose softly against her lover's cheek.

"Shall we?" Maura asked breathlessly, eyes still closed.

"Oui," Jane rasped.