Title: A Son Discovered
Author: Bj Jones
Rating: FRAO
Disclaimer: I think we all know I don't own them and the reasons why. They are owned by various executives, producers, writers and studios that have more lawyers than I want to mess with. I'm not making any money just borrowing them for a bit and promise to return them
Summary: Horatio was shocked…Speed had a son?
Beta: V/Lucas
Warning: Slash – if you don't like it – don't read it
Author's Note: So its not very AUish except the fact we have a little mini – speed running around and that he's alive…..
100 Challenges: [info]au100 – CSI: Miami
Prompt: #88 - He


~*~

Horatio looked down at the young man that held his heart. "Breathe… Come on Speed breathe!"

The shot had slammed into Speed's upper chest. He could hear Speed struggling to breathe but he could see the determination to live in his face. "I got you. I'm not going anywhere. Just keep breathing."

Horatio held Speed's hand to his chest taking calm deep breathes to get Speed to mimic the actions. Speed's brown eyes never left his blue. So much was said but left unsaid. The paramedics ran into the shop, pushing past Horatio.

Horatio stepped back and watched as the paramedics worked on the younger man. They got him stabilized for transportation. Speed reached out towards Horatio, who took his hand instantly. "You're going to be okay."

Speed reached up and pulled off the oxygen mask. "My son…Lucas…he's at St. Matthews Academy…Please, Horatio… I don't want him…" He gasped and cringed in pain. "Hearing…news." The paramedics packed him into the ambulance and left.

Horatio stared at the departing ambulance. Speed had a son?

~ St. Matthews Academy ~

Horatio was still in shock as he walked down the quiet halls of the prestige's academy. He wondered how Speed could afford the private school. Yelina had tried to get Ray Jr. in but a cop salary just didn't cover it.

Speed with a son. Speed had a son. There was a miniature Speed out there. And he, they never knew. He wondered if Alexx knew.


"Sir, may I help you?" An older woman asked behind the school office counter. "I'm Sister Marie."

He slipped off his glasses. "Hi, I’m Horatio Caine…"

Sister Marie paled, "Has something happened to Timothy?"

Horatio paused, "There's been a shooting…"

"Oh, Dear Lord, tell me he's okay?" Sister Marie made the sign of the cross. "Lucas is in math I'll have one of the Sisters fetch him." She picked up the phone quickly talking to another sister.

"He was injured," Horatio explained. "He sent me for Lucas. I'm sorry Sister if you don't mind me asking…"

"You're listed as his emergency contact. If Timothy couldn't show up for Lucas he was to be released only to you or Alexx Woods." Sister Marie explained. "Though by your expression I don't think you had prior knowledge about Lucas."

"I just learned about him today," Horatio smiled. "How long has he attended St. Matthew's?"

"Since he was five," Sister Marie answered. She looked past Horatio to see Sister Anna come up with Lucas. "Lucas, son, this is Horatio Caine…"

"Is my dad alright?" Lucas asked worried knowing if Lieutenant Caine was there, something had happened to dad.

Horatio stared at the young man. He was around twelve, and a spitting image of his father. There was no doubt in his mind this was Speed's son. He smiled reassuringly at him. "He was injured in a shooting, he asked me to come get you."

"I want to see him." Lucas looked up his eyes pleading.

Horatio got caught in Lucas's brown eyes. They were so much like Speed's. "I'll take you to the hospital."

"Lucas, I'll have your teachers get your work together for the next week." Sister Marie smiled at him. "We'll have a special prayer for your father during mass and I'll keep him in mind during my own prayers in the evening."

"Thank you Sister Marie." Lucas smiled at her.

She patted Lucas's shoulder in reassurance, and then looked over at Horatio. "Lt. Caine, please keep us updated."

"I will," Horatio slipped on his glasses and motioned towards the exit. "Lucas."

~*~

Horatio couldn't help but glance over at the young man, boy, Speed's son. He was quiet like Speed, staying still in the seat looking out the window. Sister Marie had said he had attended since he was five? So he's been with Speed since he's been in Miami. Divorce? Is he a part-time father? Where's the mother?

"You had no idea about me did you?" Lucas suddenly asked turning towards Horatio.

"No, I didn't." Horatio glanced his way. "None of us did."

Lucas smiled. "I know all about you and Eric, Calleigh, Alexx. Though I think dad didn't tell Alexx about me is because he wants to keep her to himself. Because once she meets me, she'll mother me more since I'm cuter."

Horatio grinned, "Do you know why he didn't tell any of us?"

"No," Lucas shook his head. "He doesn't hide his work or anything. It's always the way it's been." Lucas sighed and looked back out the window. "I know he's not ashamed of me, but I don't know why I can't be a part of this life." He gestured around the Hummer. "He loves it so much."

"Knowing Speed he had a good reason," Horatio said softly. He wondered what it was.

~ Hospital ~

Horatio walked into the lobby with Lucas at his side. He slipped off his sunglasses his eyes scanning for his team. He found Alexx with Eric and Calleigh sitting in the waiting area. He made his way towards them, when he stopped he set his hands on Lucas's shoulders and waited for his team's reaction.

Alexx took one look at the young boy and her jaw dropped. "Horatio?"

"My God it’s a mini-Speed," Eric responded shock.

Calleigh blinked, "What? How?"

"Everyone this is Lucas Speedle," Horatio smiled at their open mouth expressions. "Lucas, the team, I'm betting you can figure out who's who."

Lucas smiled slightly, "Nice to meet you, wish it was under different circumstances."

"My baby has a baby?" Alexx stood up and cupped Lucas's face. "My God you’re a spitting image of him. How come I didn't know about you?"

Lucas shrugged. "I know all about you."

Horatio grinned; Speed was going to get yelled at when he woke up. "Have they updated us on his condition?"

"He's in surgery," Calleigh informed him. "The bullet damaged his shoulder; he's going to be out of the field for a while."

"His gun?" Horatio asked worried.

"It's clean," Lucas snapped. "I watch him clean it every other Sunday."

"It was clean," Calleigh confirmed. "He also got a shot off; we'll have to examine the scene to see what went wrong."

"Rick?" Horatio asked regretfully.

"Been around." Eric growled.

"I'll deal with him," Horatio looked up as the doctor walked towards them.

"You’re here for Detective Speedle?" The Doctor asked.

"Yes," Alexx answered her hands now on Lucas' shoulders.

"I'm Dr. Chamberlain, I performed the surgery on Detective Speedle," Chamberlain said. "He came out of surgery with no difficulties. He'll have limited use of his left shoulder, restricting him from field work for a few months."

"Can we see him?" Lucas asked.

"He's being moved from recovery to a private room," Chamberlain smiled at the boy. "I'll have a nurse inform you when he can have visitors. He was very lucky the bullet missed his lung by less than an inch, there was mostly tissue and muscle damage."

"Thank you doctor," Alexx smiled at him relieved with the good news.

~*~

Lucas opened the door and entered the room, his eyes on his father. He quietly walked across the room and stood by the bed. He reached up and moved a lock of hair out his dad's face. Speed stirred then blinked, a small smile appearing on his face when he saw his son.

"Hey." Speed whispered.

"Don't scare me like that." Lucas sniffled trying not to cry.

"I’m okay." Speed cupped his son's face. "See I'm right here."

"I saw Horatio talking to Sister Maria and I was so scared," Lucas leaned into his father's touch.

Speed held his right arm out, "Come here."

He climbed into the bed very careful of the wires, laying his head down on his father's right shoulder. "By the way…"

Speed kissed top of his sons head. "What?"

"Alexx is mad at you," Lucas chuckled.

"She won't hurt me while I'm wounded." Speed's caressed the soft hair much like his own.

"Wait till you get out, mister." Alexx commented as she walked into the room.

"Busted," Lucas grinned up at his father.

Speed looked at his four friends. "It's not like I purposely didn't tell you."

Alexx leaned over and kissed him on the forehead. "It's okay baby…"

"No, it's important." Speed sighed. "When I came to Miami Lucas was a little over a year old. I just started at the lab and I was not sure how to handle the long hours while having an infant at home. Lucky for me Jack and Pam helped in babysitting…"

Lucas popped up. "My uncle and Aunt."

"Not by blood," Speed clarified seeing the questions on everyone's face. "Just when I was going to ask Megan to leave early so I could take Lucas to a doctor's appointment. She starts ranting and raving about Janice, do you remember her Alexx? She was still here when you came aboard."

"Yeah, she had a little girl right?" Alexx asked.

"Yeah, she left for a job in DC, and considering Megan's constant attitude towards her it wasn’t surprising." Speed rolled his eyes. "Megan always griped and complained about the time Janice took off for her girl, and how she was never around when you needed her. She should choose between a career and having children."

"Not surprising coming from Megan," Horatio shook his head. "So there you were…"

"Just out of school, a new job, with an infant and a boss who detested single parents," Speed said as he laid his cheek against Lucas' head. "So I kept my mouth shut and after a while it just never came up. I mean how do you bring up the fact after all these years?"

"By getting shot," Calleigh pointed out. "Well this just means we have to catch up on our Uncle and Aunt duties."

Lucas popped up, "Christmas is just around the corner."

"Lucas," Speed glared at his on.

"What?" He batted his eyelashes then curled up against his father.

"Oh, he's good." Eric grinned.

"Thank you." Lucas smiled

"Don't encourage him," Speed sighed. "Actually can…"

"I'll take him…" Everyone looked at each other.

Speed and Lucas looked at the four. Lucas grinned at his father. "See they like me."

"Of course they do, you’re a mini-me." Speed ruffled his son's hair, yawning.

Lucas rolled his eyes as he got out of the bed, "Just less cynical."

"Honey, you need to rest." Alexx leaned over ran a hand through his hair. "We'll be back tomorrow."

"Make sure he does his homework," Speed's eyes drifted close.

"Man, even wounded he still harps on it," Lucas groaned.

~ Speed's House ~

Lucas unlocked the door and walked into the house, flicked on some lights and dumped his book bag by the leather couch in the living room. He proceeded into the kitchen and opened the fridge to look for dinner.

Horatio closed the door behind him, his overnight bag in his hands. They had agreed it would be best for Lucas to stay at his own home, with someone to watch him. Horatio volunteered and there was no arguing with him. The redhead looked around the open and spacious loft. He was beginning to realize there was a lot he didn't know about his trace expert.

"We don't have a guest room," Lucas called out from the kitchen. "But I don't think dad would mind if you crashed up in his room."

Horatio took a deep breath calming his suddenly rapid heart rate at the thought of being in Speed’s bed. "I can take the couch."

Lucas looked up from the fridge. "Dad would be upset if you slept on the couch. Besides I don't think you'll fit on it, and then you would have a kink in your neck and be grouchy and then the rest of the team would be upset. And if they are upset, crime scenes don't get processed correctly and criminals get off. So it's in Miami's best interest for you to sleep in dad's bed."

Horatio stared at the young kid in awe. "I'll take the bed."

"See that wasn't hard," Lucas pulled out a casserole dish. "I hope you like stroganoff. Dad made some yesterday and that’s what's for dinner."

"Speed cooks?" Horatio walked over to the stairs that led up to the loft bedroom he figured was Speed's.

"Does he? Sister Marie makes him bake cookies for the schools bake sales." Lucas set the dish in the oven and set the timer. He pulled out two plates and set the table. “There’s a beer in the fridge, or some ice tea.”

Horatio checked the fridge, once again found himself staring in awe. It was a well stocked, obviously chef’s fridge. He grabbed a beer and sat down at the table. “Do you have to do this often?”

“Fix dinner or heat it up?” Lucas asked.

“Either?” Horatio sipped the beer.

“When dad works late,” Lucas shrugged. “He always calls me to let me know. And if he’s going to be real late he calls Aunt Pam to come over to watch me.”

“You don’t mind?” Horatio asked.

“Sometimes,” Lucas answered honestly. “But dad is always there. He shows up at my soccer games, he helps me with my homework, so I don’t mind a few heated up dinners. It’s only since I turned twelve and entered the 7th grade that he let me stay by myself, before I was at Aunt Pam’s or with a friend.”

“He trusts you,” Horatio pointed out.

“Yeah and have been duly warned what happens if I break it,” Lucas cringed. “I’ve learned you can’t get anything past a dad who looks for evidence for a living. He’s good.”

Horatio laughed. “So no dog that ate the homework.”

”Nope, he would probably analyze the dog’s poop just to make sure.” Lucas cringed. “Not sure how he does stuff like that.”

“Not into science?” Horatio questioned.

“I’m good at it, but I like the classics, Homer and stuff like that.” Lucas got up to check on the meal. “I love to read, that I know I inherited from dad.”

“What about your mom?” Horatio finally asked.

Lucas looked back at him and smiled. “Wondered how long that would take.”

Horatio grinned. “You are very much like him.”

“I am?” Lucas asked. “He doesn’t have many friends, besides you guys. So I don’t know anyone who knows him.”

“We’ll just have to change that,” Horatio said.

“My mom died in a car accident when I was a year old.” Lucas told him. “Dad tells me things about her, how great she was and that I remind him of her.” Lucas pulled out the stroganoff and set it on a hot plate on the table. He grabbed a spoon and dished out the hot meal onto the plates. The two of them sat down and ate in comfortable silence. They finished eating, cleaned up, and Lucas went to his room to get ready for bed.

Horatio took his bag upstairs and set it at the foot of the bed. He sat down on the bed and looked around the room, it was very much Speed. There were books everywhere, clothes thrown on the recliner in the corner, pictures of Lucas on the dresser at various ages.

One of a young woman holding a baby, he assumed to be Lucas’s mother. He wondered how much Speed loved her. Is that’s why he was alone today? A picture of a teenage Lucas, no Horatio, realized it was Speed at sixteen with his arm around a young man both leaning against a bike. The mystery of one Timothy ‘Speed’ Speedle deepened.

“Horatio,” Lucas called out from the stairs.

Horatio turned and looked at him. “Yes?”

“How long have you been in love with my father?” Lucas asked shocking Horatio speechless.

~ Few Days Later ~

"I'm going to set up a in home provider…" Dr. Chamberlain looked down at the chart.

"No," Speed struggled with the buttons on his shirt.

"Mr. Speedle, your twelve year old, even though a responsible young man, can't lift you if you fall." Chamberlain pointed out.

"I don't want a stranger in my home…"

"I'm staying with him," Horatio stepped into the room.

Speed looked up at his boss, "H?"

"It's either him or a nurse," Chamberlain threatened.

Speed sighed, "Fine." He began fighting his buttons again.

Horatio stepped up and took over, "Let me."

Speed didn't look up, he didn't want Horatio to see the flush on his face. "Thanks."

"Let's get you home," Horatio grabbed his bag. "Just to warn you, you have guests."

"My home has been invaded," Speed groaned. "Damn…"

"Alexx is drooling over your kitchen, Calleigh your library, Eric your sound system," Horatio grinned. "I love the view."

"And how did you win to stay with me?" Speed asked as they walked out of the hospital.

Horatio slipped on his glasses, "They knew not to argue with the boss."

~ Speed's Place ~

Speed let his son push him towards his 'reading' chair as they called it. He let him tuck him in with a blanket, and get him some tea. He gave Lucas's hand a squeeze to assure he was okay. Lucas smiled at him and went back to the kitchen to help Alexx.

"He's a good boy," Eric sat down on the couch. "Are you sure he's yours?"

Speed glared, "Haha."

"By the way mom wants to meet her grandson," Eric leaned back grinning.

Speed sighed, "You had to go and tell your mother."

"You think I'm not going to tell my mother, who thinks of you like a son, that you have a son." Eric eyed him. "I'm not insane. She'll be over with tamales later this week."

"So I guess this means a trip to the Delko Asylum," Speed looked over his shoulder to see Alexx and Lucas talking. "I guess it would be good for him. He's to much like me, a loner, only has a few friends."

"You did well with him," Calleigh sat down next to Eric. "So where's his mother?"

"She died when he was a year old," Speed said. "Car accident."

"I'm sorry," Calleigh looked embarrassed.

"No worries, it's not like I talk about it," Speed yawned and leaned back in the chair eyes drifting shut.

Eric smiled at the now dozing Speed. Calleigh grinned and got up and tucked the blanket into the sides. The two walked into the kitchen. Alexx looked at them, and then back at a sleeping Speed.

"They gave him some pain meds before we left. I think he's out for a while at least." Horatio said setting a bag on the counter. "The doctor sent home his meds and instructions."

Alexx grabbed the bag and pulled out the bottles, creams, and instructions. She eyed each one before putting it on the table. Pausing she held one up to Horatio. "This one is for migraines. Did he hit his head?"

"No," Horatio looked at the prescription. "Pre-existing condition?"

"I know he's gotten headaches before," Alexx looked over at Speed. "But he said they were that just headaches."

Lucas paused when everyone looked at him. "Ahhh……"

"No picking on my son," Speed called out from the chair. "It’s a pre-existing condition, leave it at that."

Horatio looked back towards Speed. "I though the meds would have knocked you out."

"They would have if I had taken all of it," Speed smirked then yawned. "I don't like feeling doped up."

"Since when have you had migraines?" Alexx asked concerned. "And how often do you get them?"

"For a while, and not that often," Speed answered.

Once again everyone turned to Lucas who had snorted at the answer. "Try two to three times a month depending on the case load. The worse the case the worse the migraine."

"Traitor," Speed mockingly glared at the young man.

"Born with it? Is it hereditary?" Alexx asked Lucas, since he seemed to be the one giving answers.

"It started when he was eighteen," Lucas shrugged. "There was an accident and he didn't have a helmet on and…" He looked up to see his father's standing face pale and it wasn't from the injury. "Dad?"

"Who told you?" Speed's voice was panicked.

Lucas' eyes went wide. "I… I didn't know I…Uncle Jack told me. About you and Lance…"

"Oh God," Speed paled even more.

Horatio came up to his side, "Speed you need to sit down."

"Damn it Jack." Speed sat down suddenly exhausted.

Lucas walked up to his father, "I'm sorry. I didn't know I wasn't supposed to know."

Speed smiled at him, "It's not your fault. I was going to tell you when you're older, there's just a lot of emotions and history surrounding that time in my life."

"But now you’re upset and you don't need to be upset." Lucas frowned.

"I'll be fine," Speed assured him. "Sit with me?"

Lucas carefully climbed into the chair, "You know I'm getting too big for this."

"No kid is ever too big to cuddle with their parents," Alexx said as she walked over. She kissed Speed on the top of his head. "We're going to go. You rest." She looked at Horatio. "Make him rest. We'll be back tomorrow."

Horatio walked their friends to the door saying goodbye and that he would talk with them tomorrow. They all looked worried at Speed's reaction to Lucas' revelation. He assured them their friend was in good hands. He finished fixing up some dinner for the three of them, letting both father and son rest.

He grinned at the sight of Lucas asleep resting his head on Speed's good shoulder. Speed looked up at him and smiled. "I remember when he could sleep lying on my chest."

"They grow up fast." Horatio set some soup and tea down at the table and walked over to Speed. "You need to eat something."

"Not really hungry…" Speed said.

"Dad," Lucas sat up. "You need to eat and take your medication."

He looked at the two of them and realized he would lose so just surrendered, "Fine."

Lucas smirked, "It's good not to argue with me."

"I learned not to." Horatio said chuckling.

~*~

"Dad?" Lucas asked after they ate looked at him hesitantly. "Could you tell me the story?"

Speed closed his eyes, memories of times gone by flashing through his head. "I had wanted to wait till you were older, but Jack…"

"All he told me was you and Lance was friends and got carried away and ended up in an accident, hence the migraines." Horatio helped Speed to the couch, Lucas sitting next to him.

"I could come back…" Horatio suggested realizing this was a private family matter.

"It's okay H," Speed put his arm around Lucas. "Lance was my first love."

Horatio was a bit surprised how open Speed was with his son. "When did you meet?" He couldn't help asking.

Speed grinned at Horatio's natural curiosity. "Junior high, I was alone in some corner reading when he just walked up and introduced himself. Dragged me out of the library determined to get me to have some fun." Lucas chuckled. "We were sixteen when we figured out what we were feeling towards each other was more than friendship. Both our families… My family never really got me. I was a bookworm, never a popular kid or a jock. They were so focused on my younger brother they just didn't notice me."

"I met grandma and grandpa once," Lucas rolled his eyes. "No great loss."

Speed shook his head at his son. "We were eighteen, and on a senior trip." Speed was lost in the memories. "We went snowmobiling. Lance figured it was no different then riding a bike. A deer ran out, he swerved, and crashed. I hit my head on a rock, I was very lucky actually. I walked away with migraines for life, Lance didn't walk away he was paralyzed from the neck down."

Horatio sighed, "I'm sorry."

"His parents wanted nothing to do with him. Not only was he gay he was a cripple." Speed tone hardened. "They stuck him in a state institution and walked away. I fought like hell, and got him moved to Columbia research hospital. Lance agreed to basically be their guinea pig, for medical treatment. I started attending Columbia studying microbiology specializing in cell growth and repair."

"You met mom at Columbia," Lucas looked at him a bit confused.

"This is why I wanted to wait until you were older." Speed frowned. "I met your mom the first semester. I was taking an art history class, for my lower division requirements, though I never understood the point. I mean I could tell the difference between Baroque and Medieval, but why? Anyway, I ended up helping her with science, while she in turn helped through the art classes. She became one of my best friends. She helped me with Lance, kept me sane through the various procedures they put him through."

"She was there when Lance didn't make it through the last procedure. His heart gave out, and I swore at the time so did mine." Speed closed his eyes as tears threatened. "I wouldn't have made if it wasn't for Lauren. She arranged the memorial, got me through finals, how I don't know."

Speed sat back and looked at his son. "I knew I had to get away from everything. Lance told me he didn’t want to get stuck in the ground or a crypt. So I had him cremated and booked a flight to Europe. The night before I left in a weak moment for both of us we slept together. I left before she got up in the morning."

Lucas's voice was quiet. "Did you love mom?"

"Yes," he lifted Lucas's face to look him in the eyes. "I loved your mother, but I wasn't in love with her. She knew that and I knew that. It was a very special night. You were conceived in love, comfort, friendship and that is special."

Lucas smiled and leaned up against his father. "So you ran off and left mom all alone."

Speed rolled his eyes. "I wandered Europe for a year just exploring, dealing with losing Lance, spread his ashes. When I got back to New York, I was a bit surprised."

"I bet," Horatio commented from the chair.

Speed almost looked surprised to see him. "I had a hard time finding Lauren. Her friends wouldn't speak to me, her parents about chased me down the street. I finally got her best friend to let me know where she was, and that was only because I groveled."

"Was she hiding from you?" Horatio asked.

"No," Speed smiled. "They were hiding her from me. I was labeled the asshole of a man that left her knocked up and alone."

"Well dad like you said, all men are assholes," Lucas grinned.

"Hey, what did I say about cursing?" Speed eyed him.

"But…" Lucas glared.

"I know I slip, but I don’t want you cursing in front of a Sister one day," Speed said.

"Good point," Lucas cringed at the thought.

"So you found her?" Horatio asked curious.

~ Flashback ~

Speed stood in front of the small apartment, hesitant to knock. He knew something was up but had no idea what. He knocked and waited hoping he still had a friend.

He smiled as the door opened to reveal Lauren. "Hi."

"SPEED!" She jumped into his arms hugging him tight. "When did you get back? How was Europe? Are you okay?"

He laughed hugging her tight. "I'm fine, Europe was European, and I got back a few weeks ago but no one would tell me where you were?"

She stepped back shocked then rolled her eyes. "Damn them."

"Are you okay?" He asked.

"Actually, Tim there is something I have to tell you." She pulled him inside the apartment.

"You called me Tim, I'm worried. Are you sick?" Speed asked in fear.

"No, no I'm perfectly healthy," She grinned.

"Married?" Speed looked around the apartment.

"No, though my parents tried real hard." Lauren rolled her eyes, grabbed his hand and pulled him towards the back of the apartment. "You left something behind."

She opened the door. Speed looked into a small nursery, his eyes landing on the crib. He looked at her in shock. "You have a son," she smiled at him.

Speed moved to the crib, his eyes on the small infant. "Can I?"

Lauren nodded, "Go ahead."

Speed picked up his son and held him close. "He's …. how…"

"He's three months; you left me knocked up hence everyone hating you." Lauren rubbed the infants back. "And do I need to explain how?"

"What's his name?" Speed asked, still in awe over the small miracle.

"Lucas Andrew Speedle," Lauren smiled at him. "It pissed my parents off to no end that I gave him your last name and put you on the birth certificate."

"You should have told me," Speed kissed the top of the baby's head. "I would have come home."

"You needed time to heal," Lauren kissed him on the cheek. "I knew you would come home when you were ready."

Speed turned to the infant. "Hi, Lucas, I'm your father."

~ Present ~

"Lauren's parents wanted nothing to do with you?" Horatio asked.

"They were upset their little girl got pregnant," Speed said. "Even more upset she wouldn't abort it, then livid when she wouldn't marry some nice boy. Then to add insult she gave Lucas my last name, and put me down as the father. In their eyes I was nothing but a lowlife."

Lucas smiled. "I wish I could have known her."

"You got her artistic side," Speed grinned. "I still don't get art history, yet since you were a little you would just look through her art books enthralled at the pictures."

Lucas blushed, "You can learn a lot about society through their art."

"See," Speed grinned at Horatio.

"How old was Lucas when she died?" Horatio asked.

"I don't know how, but we both graduated…"

"Wait? You finished your two years in one?" Horatio asked in awe.

"Yeah, but with a lot of…"

"With honors," Lucas piped up with pride.

"As I was saying…"

"You do hide that brain of yours don't you?" Horatio looked at Speed.

He glared at the two of them. "After graduation we packed the apartment and were getting ready to drive down to Miami." Speed paused. "We ran out of packing tape, something so stupid. She went out to get some, decided to take Lucas since he was fussing; the car always lolled him to sleep."

"I was packing up the kitchen when the phone rang," Speed was once again lost in memories. "I looked up at the clock, shocked to see that they had been gone for over an hour. Dread filled me as the phone kept ringing."

"Dad?" Lucas touched his father's hand.

"I'm okay," Speed assured him. "She had died at the scene. Irony, it was someone we graduated with. They had too much to drink and ran a red light, slamming into the driver's side." He cupped Lucas's face. "Lucas didn't even have a scratch, he was safe and secure in his car seat, and he didn't stop crying until I picked him up."

"Her parents buried her, refusing to tell me where the memorial was being held. It was their last act of defiance." Speed grinned slightly. "There's a reason I'm a CSI, I found out where, and showed up I was going to make sure our son said goodbye to his mother."

"I'm surprised they didn't sue for custody?" Horatio wondered.

"They tried," Speed sighed. "I was on my way out the door to Miami, when I got the summons. I ended up crashing at a friend's house until the court date. Lucky, I had told Megan it would take a while for me to get to Miami, so she wasn't expecting me till the fall."

"They tried to take me?" Lucas asked, shocked. "You never told me that."

"You were too young to realize what was going on, and I didn't want you to know how bad it got." Speed explained.

"What happened?" Lucas asked. "I'm with you so…"

"The judge was a good person." Speed continued. "Her parent's biggest argument was that I had hooked up with Lauren to get her money. The shocked expression on my face in the middle of the hearing probably clued the judge in on the fact that I had no idea about the money. Come to find out your mother had a trust fund from her grandmother."

"You had no idea?" Horatio asked.

"Not a clue, I sat there in court staring at them, my jaw probably sitting on the table," Speed laughed. "The judge actually snickered at my reaction. What I didn't know was that Lauren's lawyer was there to testify that the trust fund had already been set up in case something happened to her to go to Lucas. The money was to be used for schooling up through college, and once he graduates he can have access to the rest."

"So I'm loaded?" Lucas grinned.

Speed eyed his son, "It pays for your education."

"Still, I'm loaded." Lucas' grin got bigger.

"No accessing it till you graduate from college." Speed pointed out. "You got a while to go yet."

"Still…." Lucas paused at his father's look. "Education is good. So this means I can go to Harvard?"

"Any school you want." Speed grinned at Lucas's antics.

"So, that’s how you can afford St. Matthews." Horatio concluded.

"Yeah," Speed laughed. "No way could I afford it on my salary otherwise."

"I take it after they discovered the money was going to Lucas and only Lucas, the case was dropped?" Horatio asked.

"They tried to state, single father, so forth and so on, but the judge ruled in my favor. Wished me luck in Miami and that was that." Speed shrugged. "They have never contacted me at anytime to see Lucas."

"No loss," Lucas shrugged as he got off the couch. "I’m going to bed now."

"I give you your life story and that’s it?" Speed smirked.

Lucas smiled, "I know how it ended. Dad and son live happily ever after. Though there is a part missing."

"What?" Speed asked.

"Your prince," Lucas looked at Horatio then left the living room and into his bedroom.

Speed stared at Horatio. Horatio blushed and looked down. "Lucas had a good idea…."

Horatio looked up at Speed. "What?"

"Bed," Speed yawned. "I'm worn out, and my shoulder is hurting."

"Which means you're ready to drop and your shoulder is probably on fire," Horatio stood up and helped Speed up off the couch and up to his bedroom. He helped him get ready for bed and handed him his medicine. Got him into bed and tucked the other man in.

"H…" Speed yawned.

"I'll be out on the couch…" Horatio headed for the door.

"You're too big for it." Speed looked over at him. "You sleep on it you'll get a kink in your neck, which means you'll be grouchy. And the team doesn't know what to do with a grouchy Horatio Caine. We are so worried about it when you’re grouchy that we miss things, and then criminals walk – so for the good of Miami it's not good idea for you to sleep on the couch."

Horatio stared at his trace expert, failing miserably at trying to hide the grin. "He is so your son."

"Thank you," Speed yawned. "There's plenty of room. And with this shoulder I'm not moving much."

Horatio paused, "Speed…"

"H, just get into bed." Speed closed his eyes falling asleep.

Horatio undressed, pulling on some sleep pants, and climbed into the bed. He moved a lock of hair from Speed's forehead, "Goodnight Speed."

~ A Week Later ~

"So when are you going to tell him?" Lucas looked over the breakfast table at Horatio.

"Tell who what?" Horatio set down the cereal bowl.

"Hello," Lucas rolled his eyes, "Dad. That you're in love with him."

"It's not that easy," Horatio sighed, turning back to the fridge.

"How hard is it?" Lucas asked. "You just say, 'Dad' Okay maybe not Dad, but 'Speed, I love you.' See not hard."

Horatio turned around and froze. "Speed…"

Lucas turned around to see his dad standing in the living room in shock. "Oh, I hear my ride." He grabbed his book bag and ran out the door.

Speed stared at Horatio, "Is it true?"

Horatio leaned his hands against the counter. "Speed…"

"Is it true?" Speed asked again as he walked into the kitchen.

Horatio turned to him, "Yes…"

Speed snaked his good hand behind Horatio's head and pulled him in for a deep kiss. Horatio moaned into it pulling Speed closer to him. The younger man's tongue swept though Horatio's mouth, tasting and exploring. The redhead turned and pushed Speed against the counter trying to burrow into the younger man. Speed pulled back panting for air, his lips red and swollen, his eyes dark with lust. Horatio ran a finger down his cheek and over his lips, Speed's tongue snaked out and pulled the digit into his mouth sucking on it. Horatio moaned thrusting his groin into Speed's hip.

"Oh God Speed," Horatio voice was deep and husky.

Speed shivered at the lust he heard, "I love you, too."

Horatio pulled Speed to him, taking his mouth into a deep kiss. He reluctantly pulled back panting. "Work."

"What about it?" Speed nibbled on his chin following a path along his jaw line to his ear.

"I have to go to it," Horatio moved his head giving Speed better access. "We…oh God…"

Speed sucked on the out shell of the ear then let it go. He looked at Horatio. "I think Lucas needs to visit his Aunt and Uncle tonight."

Horatio grinned taking Speed's mouth tenderly. He stepped back trying to get his body and emotions back under control. "I'll call you if something happens."

Speed reached out and pulled him close, "I'll be waiting." He kissed him hard and deep then let him go with a smile. "Think of me."

Horatio groaned as he pulled away, "You'll be on my mind, that’s for sure." He smiled and walked out of the door.

Speed sighed and picked up the phone, "Pam… I have a favor to ask…"

~ Later that Evening ~

Speed picked up the phone and dialed Horatio's number; once again it had gone straight to voicemail. He knew if something had happened to the redhead someone would have called him. He glanced at the clock on the wall; it was past nine o'clock in the evening. Horatio should have called to say he was going to be late. Speed sunk into the couch. He wasn't coming. In less than twelve hours he had everything he wanted in his arms and lost it.

Speed wasn't sure what hurt more. Losing Andrew or Horatio, but then did he ever really have him? Horatio never would have told him, if it wasn't for Lucas's comment. At least Andrew thought he was worth the effort. It seemed Horatio didn't.

Speed looked up a smile on his face when the keys rattled in the door. His smile faded fast when he saw Alexx.

"Hey honey," Alexx smiled at him dropping a bag by the door. "How are you feeling?"

Speed sighed, his head falling back. He tossed the phone towards the other end of the couch. "Fine."

"Have you eaten?" Alexx asked paused at the kitchen entrance, looking at the signs of a prepared meal. She closed her eyes and turned back to Speed who was staring at the ceiling. "Let me fix you something. Where's Lucas?"

"With Pam and Jack," Speed said.

"Speed…" Alexx's heart broke at Speed's tone.

"Don't," Speed stood up. He looked at her, "I've been through this before it's nothing new."

"Honey…" Alexx stepped up to him.

He held up a hand, "I'm going to bed. I'm suddenly very tired."

"Damn you Horatio Caine," Alexx leaned against the wall. "You hurt my baby."

~ Morning ~

"Dad, I'm home!" Lucas yelled out a grin on his face. He dropped his bag in his normal spot and headed into the kitchen looking for a snack. He grabbed an apple and turned and yelped.

"Sorry sugar," Alexx smiled. "Didn't mean to frighten you."

Lucas's forehead furrowed, he looked around her. "Ahhh…."

Alexx leaned against the counter, "He's not here."

"Big case?" Lucas asked.

"Lucas," Speed called out as he came down the stairs. "How was your night?"

"Fun, we watched this really cool movie," He grinned. "I swear it was you as a teenager."

Speed groaned, "I hate that movie."

"Is that why I'm named Lucas?" He grinned.

"Your mom had a sense of humor," Speed ruffled his hair. "How's your English project?"

Lucas shrugged, "Coming along. They want me to write a paper on 'Love is…'"

"You'll do fine," Speed smiled at Alexx. "You should get home to your kids."

"Why don't you guys come over this weekend?" Alexx suggested. "Brian and Jamie are dying to meet Lucas."

"Sounds like a plan," Speed looked at Lucas. "Sound good to you?"

"Yeah," Lucas grinned. "Is it just us or everyone?"

"Just us," Alexx grabbed her bag. "If you need anything call me, Eric said he'll stop by later."

"You know I don't need a babysitter," Speed sighed.

"Your shoulder is still healing; you need help around the house." Alexx pointed out as she headed out the door.

"Dad, why is Eric coming?" Lucas looked up at his father. "Where's Horatio?"

Speed turned towards his son. He never lied to him and he wasn't going to start now. "Horatio isn't staying with us anymore."

"Why?" Lucas asked.

Speed dropped his head, trying to get through the lump in his chest. "Honestly, I don't know. He sent Alexx last night, and I haven't talked to him."

"But…" Lucas looked at him. "You and him… you talked and you love each other."

"As cliché as it sounds, sometimes it's just not enough." Speed looked at his son.

"That's stupid," Lucas yelled. "Its love…it's simple. You love him he loves you – he should be here. Why isn't he here? I thought he wanted us as a family?" Lucas paled. "Is it me?"

"NO!" Speed pulled his son into his arms. "It's not you. It's not easy for a man to love another man, society …"

"SUCKS!" Lucas pulled out of his arms. "If he really loved you…us… then he wouldn’t care." Lucas turned and stormed to his room.

Speed let the tears fall.

~ Monday – The Next Week ~

Speed sighed as he got Lucas ready for school. The young man was still angry and hurt. He had the right to be. Horatio hadn't just broken Speed's heart. He broke the heart of his twelve year old son, and that pissed him off. One week, and not a word. Alexx, Calleigh and Eric were fidgety and carefully not bring up work or Horatio's name. They talked a lot about the new guy. Speed was looking forward to meeting him. The doctor said another couple of weeks and he would be fit for work in the lab. He had no idea what would happen then.

He grabbed the phone, "Speedle." He paused and looked at it. "Father Malone? Ahh, sure I can meet you this morning. What is this concerning? His English project…no I didn't read it, I've been…thank you I'm healing nicely. I'll be in after I drop him off for his classes." He hung up the phone. "Lucas!"

"Yeah," Lucas called out from his room.

"Did you finish your English Project?" Speed asked his son.

"Yeah," Lucas walked out of his room. "Turned it in Friday."

"Father Malone wants to talk to me about it," Speed eyed him. "Any idea why?"

"No," Lucas shook his head in confusion.

"Okay, let's go." Speed head for the door.

~ Father Malone's Office ~

Speed sat down in front of Father Malone’s desk. He didn’t know how they did it, but even as an adult he felt like he was in trouble. Father Malone walked in and sat down, he gave Speed an encouraging smile. Speed eyed him, this wasn’t good.

“Did Lucas do something wrong?” Speed asked.

“I’m a bit concerned about his paper,” Father Malone began. “I think there are some inclinations that should be addressed now.”

“Inclinations?” Speed frowned. “I’m not following.”

He handed Speed the paper. “Read.”

‘Love is…’ By Lucas Speedle

Love is saving a quiet geek from the library and making him have fun.

Love is making your own family when your own toss you out.

Love is holding his hand when the doctors tell you he’ll never walk again.

Love is fighting for him to have a better quality of life.

Love is that ache you feel when you lose the one you love.

Love is knowing when to let someone go so they can find themselves and heal.

Love is holding them tight when they come back.

Love is facing adversary to say goodbye.

Love is midnight feedings, teething, and not killing the kid during potty training.

Love is a hug after a nightmare.

Love is watching that favorite movie over a 100 times and still acting like you’ve never seen it.

Love is helping with homework.

Love is standing in the rain watching a soccer game.

Love is a simple touch, a caring word

Love is standing by your love’s side through good times, bad times, and all that is in between.

Love is acceptance – it doesn’t matter the package.

Love is forgiveness – Because men are assholes and we are going to hurt the one we love.

Love is simple.

Love is precious and should be held onto tightly and never let go. It’s the best gift God gave us - whether it’s love of a parent, love of a child, love of a friend, or love of a lover. We need it in our lives or we aren’t really living.

Speed wiped the tears from his cheeks. He had a very insightful child. “I… this paper ... it’s…”

“Disturbing…” Father Malone agreed.

Speed looked at him. “Disturbing? I was thinking more along the lines of ahead of its time. The fact a twelve year old can see so clearly an adult emotion.”

“You’re not worried about the inclinations?” Father Malone asked concerned.

“Inclinations?” Speed started to get upset. “I can see why you’re upset over the cursing. I’ll talk to him about that, but what are you …” He looked down at the paper. “You’re referring to the fact he said ‘he’.”

“Thank you,” Father Malone sighed. “Now this is something…”

Speed stood up and glared at Father Malone. “It’s attitudes like yours is what he’s talking about.”

“The church clearly…” Father Malone looked up at Speed.

“My son attends St. Matthew’s because it’s the best school, and I care about his education. We are not affiliated to your religion. I do not mind him attending Mass; I’m fine with him learning the history and theology of the Catholic Church. But I will not allow you to punish him for being open minded.” Speed headed for the door. “If you’re going to make this an issue then I’ll pull Lucas out of the school at the break.” He stormed out of the office and down the hallway.

Sister Marie ran up to him. “Mr. Speedle, Timothy!”

Speed stopped, “I’m sorry Sister, it’s been a rough morning.”

She sighed. “I know Father Malone called you in about Lucas’s paper.”

“Yes,” Speed answered.

“Father Malone is…well he’s…”

“A close minded bigot?” Speed helped out.

She grinned, “Old school.”

“And?” Speed questioned.

“And, not all of us think that way,” Sister Marie smiled. “Lucas is a good student and you’re a good father. I would hate to lose both of you.”

“You do realize I’m gay,” Speed pointed out.

“Really?” She asked smiling.

Speed grinned, “I’m taking him out today if you don’t mind.”

“I’m glad to see you’re healing,” Sister Marie patted him on the arm. “Piece of advice?”

Speed looked down at her a curious expression. “Sometime you just have to hunt them down and drag their scared backsides back.”

Speed’s eyebrow rose. “That’s scary.”

“God works in mysterious ways,” She smiled as she walked off.

“Really scary,” Speed shivered and went to find his son.

~ Friday – Later That Week ~

"You have fun at Marks," Speed smiled into the phone. "I'll be fine… I promise no kissing on a first date…" He closed his eyes. "I know…You have fun enjoy the movie." He clicked the phone off and set it back on his dresser.

He looked at the mirror checking his appearance. He still couldn't believe that Sister Marie had set him up on a date. It was scary actually. He grabbed his wallet and keys and headed down stairs. He had just grabbed his jacket when he heard the knock on the door. Speed looked at the door puzzled; he was supposed to meet the guy at the restaurant.

He opened the door and stared in shock. "Horatio." Speed's voice was hard and cold.

Horatio visibly flinched. "Speed."

"What are you doing here?" Speed asked. He was surprised to say the least, two weeks and no word from the man.

"Can we talk?" Horatio asked.

Speed's jaw clenched. "No word from you in two weeks, our co-workers afraid to mention your name. You left my son hurt and pissed, and now you show up and you want to talk?"

"Speed…" Horatio looked up and for once noticed Speed's outfit. "Going out?"

"As a matter of fact I am," Speed said. "I have a date."

"A date?" Horatio asked.

"Yes, with someone who is willing to at least try." Speed growled.

"I’m sorry," Horatio stepped back his eyes on the floor. "I…I'll leave…"

Speed knew he had a choice to make; he growled and pulled Horatio into the loft. He slammed the door shut then pushed Horatio into it, taking his lips in a deep hard kiss. He devoured the redhead's mouth demanding entrance as he dominated the kiss. He pulled back and stared into blue eyes; eyes filled with a slue of emotions.

"If you can't handle being in a relationship with me. If you can't handle being in a ready made family. Then leave now." Speed demanded in a harsh voice, emotions lying close to the surface.

"This is where I belong," Horatio touched Speed's cheek. "I know I hurt you and Lucas, and I've …"

Speed took his mouth in another deep tongue tangling kiss. He pulled Horatio away from the door and headed for the stairs. "Right now I don't care; I just want you to fuck me into the mattress." He kissed him again.

Horatio followed Speed upstairs to the familiar bedroom. Speed turned towards him, the harshness gone, only gentleness in his touch. Horatio cupped the younger man's cheek his thumb running across his cheek. "I love you."

Speed turned his head and kissed Horatio's palm. "Show me."

Horatio pulled Speed close taking his mouth into a soft kiss. His hands trailed down his chest, unbuttoning as he went. He paused and stepped back, his eyes on the gauze patch as his fingers traced it. "I thought I lost you that day. It scared the crap out of me seeing you lying on the floor in a pool of your own blood." He looked up at Speed. "When I walked out of here that morning I had every intention of coming home and making love to you."

"Why didn't you?" Speed asked as he reached up to wipe away the lone tear on Horatio's cheek.

"Our case," Horatio leaned into Speed's touch. "He killed his best friend because he saw him with a guy. His comment, 'what would people think if they new he was my friend? I had to do something about it.' It scared me that this man could kill his best friend over society's perception. The image of you on the floor bleeding sprung into my mind and I couldn't get it out. The thought that I could lose you because of some bigot or the idea that someone would hurt Lucas…"

Speed pulled the older man into his arms. "You should have just come to me."

"I told myself I was doing it to save you, that you were safer without me in your life." Horatio buried his head into Speed's neck.

"Can I slap you now?" Speed held him close.

"Alexx already did," Horatio pulled back, a small smile on his face. "Twice, then she let Calleigh and Yelina at me."

"I missed it?" Speed asked smiling through his own tears.

"I'm sorry," Horatio kissed him. "So sorry…" He followed a trail down the younger man's neck. "Forgive me…"

Speed shifted, giving Horatio better access, "I already have."

Horatio stripped the shirt off Speed and tossed it to the side. His hands caressed the soft skin, "You feel so good."

Speed attacked the buttons on Horatio's shirt, growling he ripped it open. Horatio grinned and shrugged out of the shirt tossing it next to Speed's. Speed's mouth latched onto a nipple, licking and teasing it erect. Horatio groaned in pleasure, his hands finding their way into the dark strands. The redhead was lost in sensations as Speed played his body like a fine instrument. Before he knew it they were both sprawled out on the bed.

Speed straddled and looked down at him. "I want you in me."

Horatio reached up and undid Speed's pants, his hand slipping inside feeling the hard hot flesh. Speed arched into the touch, his head thrown back as a moan escaped his lips. He looked back down at Horatio, his eyes darkening with lust. He took a hold of Horatio's hands and slid them up above his head. Speed kissed all over his face, taking his lips into a soft kiss before nibbling down the long neck. He teased each nipple until they were hard and erect; his mouth blazed a trail down the flat stomach, his tongue dipped into his belly button causing the redhead's moan to turn to a purr.

Speed grinned looking up at his new lover, "So if I touch here…" His hand caressed over the soft skin just above the belt. "You'll purr for me."

Horatio moaned his hips thrusting upward, "Please…"

"What do you want?" Speed asked his mouth exploring the hard chest once again.

"Touch me…" He groaned.

Speed sat back a grin on his face. He quickly undid Horatio's pants and, with one move, had them and his boxers down by his ankles, quickly getting rid of shoes, socks, pants and shorts. He looked down at the flushed body beneath him. His hands caressed up strong legs resting on lean thighs. He bent down and took the hard leaking cock into his mouth, his tongue swirling along the head.

Horatio's hands moved into Speed's hair, holding him still yet not pushing. "Speed…so…God…" Horatio was lost in sensations he resisted the urge to thrust hard and deep into the hot cavern. "Please…"

Speed let the erect cock drop out of his mouth, he leant forward and took Horatio's hands, pinning them to the bed as his dark eyes bore into Horatio's blue. "How do you want me?"

Horatio reached up and took the swollen lips into a deep kiss, "On your back legs wrapped around me as I bury myself deep inside you." He whispered before kissing him again.

Speed moaned as he pulled back and off the bed, quickly getting rid of the last of his clothes. Horatio sat up and openly admired the hard body in front of him. Speed was slightly smaller than him, but tight in all the right places. A small dust of dark hair on his chest, lean stomach, and strong thighs he couldn't wait to feel wrapped around him.

He reached out and slid a finger down the middle of Speed's chest. Speed watched him eyes bright with anticipation. The finger moved back up swirled around one nipple then the other as the redhead felt the shiver under his fingertip. Horatio gripped Speed's hips and pulled him close dipping his head down he took the erect cock into his mouth and tasted his lover for the first time. Speed braces his hands on Horatio's shoulders thrusting slightly into the warm mouth. Horatio relaxed and took him down his throat swallowing around the head. Speed groaned wanting nothing more than to fuck the redhead's mouth.

Horatio leaned back letting his prize fall out of his mouth. He took Speed's hand and tugged him onto the bed. Speed grinned as Horatio laid him down on the bed and took his mouth into a deep kiss.

Horatio kissed a path down Speed's chest tasting, licking, marking as he went, settling finally between Speed's spread open legs. He sat up and looked at Speed, without a word Speed shifted and leaned towards the night stand and pulled out lube and a condom.

Horatio took them, "How long as it been?"

Speed blushed, "I have a few things to help the lonely nights, but as for a lover, a few years at least."

Eyebrow raised, "Toys?" He asked, rubbing Speed's thighs before kissing them tenderly. He squeezed some lube onto his fingers and gently pushed two inside of the younger man.

Speed moaned in pleasure pushing down on the fingers. "More…"

Horatio took his time preparing him, caressing the small gland and sending shockwaves of pleasure through Speed's body. Horatio grinned at the young man's growl of more, now, and hard. Horatio slipped on the condom and lubed up. He positioned Speed's legs on his shoulders and slowly entered the willing body.

Speed's head fell back, hand clinching the sheets as Horatio slid into him. Once buried deep inside he stilled, letting Speed adjust to him. Speed opened his eyes and locked them with Horatio. The redhead began a slow steady rhythm rocking back and forth getting lost in the feel of Speed's body surrounding him.

Speed matched each thrust, "H… harder I want to feel you."

He groaned as Horatio thrusts became hard and faster. Speed cried out in pleasure when Horatio adjusted his angle and hit that one spot over and over. Horatio took Speed's legs off his shoulders as he bent down to take Speed's mouth into a deep kiss. The long legs hooked around the redhead's waist pulling him closer. Horatio buried his head into Speed's neck as he continued pounding into the younger man. His thrusts becoming erratic, he grabbed Speed's hips and lifted them, as he thrust deep and hard screaming out Speed's name as he came, pulling his lover over the edge with him.

Speed felt the wetness on his shoulder and heard the soft sobs coming from the older man. He wrapped his arms around him and held him close, soothing him with soft strokes and tender kisses. "I got you H."

"I'm sorry…please forgive …sorry… I hurt you…" Horatio tried to get closer to the man he loved.

"I love you," Speed held him as he rolled them, Horatio now on his back. He disposed of the condom and quickly grabbed a towel and cleaned them up. He got the two of them under the covers. Horatio slid into Speed's arms and held onto him through the night. Speed fell into a tired but sated sleep.

~ Morning ~

Horatio smiled down at his sleeping lover. They had made love throughout the night. For once in his life he had felt whole, as Speed claimed him. He kissed him lightly on the forehead and carefully got out of the bed without waking him up. He wanted to get some breakfast going, and he still had an irate pissed off over protective twelve year old to deal with.

He was a bit surprised to see some of his stuff still in the bedroom. He had thought Speed would have tossed it. He grabbed the jogging pants and t-shirt, got dressed and headed downstairs. He closed the door behind him making sure not to wake Speed up.

He was half way through preparing breakfast when he heard the keys in the door. "Dad I'm home!" Lucas dropped his bag in his normal spot and headed into the kitchen and froze.

Horatio smiled at him. "Lucas."

"What the hell are you doing here?" Lucas demanded angrily.

Horatio wiped his hands on a towel, walked over to the counter, picked a paper and handed it to him. Lucas grabbed it and looked at it, his eyes widening in shock.

"This is my paper." Lucas looked up. "How did you get it?"

"It was faxed to me," Horatio leaned back against the counter. "You're way beyond your years."

"Doesn't explain what you're doing here?" Lucas pointed out.

"Making up for my mistakes," Horatio sighed. "I let my fears rule my actions and I hurt two people I care… I love."

Lucas glared at him. "Dad cried over you."

Horatio eyes shut, the image of a crying Speed entering his mind. His heart clenched at the thought. "I was scared someone would hurt your dad or you to get to me. I… see such hatred daily and the thought that … that I could lose someone I care about to such hatred scared me. I honestly thought it would be better if I wasn't around."

Lucas looked at him. "That is the stupidest thing I've heard. Hurt the ones you love to protect them."

"I didn't say it was smart decision," Horatio pointed out. "I read what you wrote and realized how stupid it was. I was hurting, Speed was hurting, and you were hurting…"

"At least tell me Aunt Alexx smacked you?" Lucas crossed his arms in front of him.

"Twice," Horatio smiled. "I know I have a lot to make up…" Horatio stopped in shock. He looked down to see Lucas hugging him. He wrapped his arms around the boy. "I'm sorry."

"Don't do it again," Lucas hugged him tight. "My dad knows how to hide bodies."

Horatio laughed, "Yes and so do your aunts and uncles."

Lucas stepped back. "So does this mean you're staying?"

"As long as you two will have me," Horatio grinned.

"Good," Lucas said.

"By the way," He picked up the paper. "'Because men are assholes and we are going to hurt the one we love.' That is a very Speed thing to say."

"He's the one that told it to me," Lucas grinned.

"What?" Horatio's eyebrow rose. "I noticed he is very open with you."

"Well you have to be when said son walks in on you when you're taking care of needs." Speed commented as he walked down the stairs. He smiled at Horatio before slipping into his arms kissing him good morning.

"Can we not bring that up," Lucas groaned. "It was so embarrassing."

"For you?" Speed hid his blushing face into Horatio's shoulder. "That’s the reason there's now a door for the loft bedroom."

"And why I make it clear to the house that I'm home," Lucas shook his head.

"I so need to know," Horatio tipped Speed's chin kissing him softly. "Tell me."

"I was," Speed blushed. "I had some toys out, he…" Speed pointed to his son accusingly. "Was supposed to be over at Mark's house till the next morning."

"How old?" Horatio asked Lucas.

"Nine, my childhood ruined." Lucas cried dramatically.

Speed rolled his eyes, "Did I mention his mom was theatrical?"

"Haha dad," Lucas shook his head. "So I come home minding my own business hear noises, and thinking something is wrong with dad go upstairs and well …"

"Saw way more than any kid should ever see of his parent," Speed buried his face into Horatio's shoulder again. "Stop snickering."

Horatio tried real hard not to laugh. "So I guess the sex talk happened a bit earlier than expected?"

"Yep," Speed grinned pulling from Horatio. "Not just the whole girl/guy sex talk but guy/guy."

"It was mortifying," Lucas shivered.

"But it also let me be open when I dated," Speed moved towards the coffee pot. "So when I met this guy who I thought was decent I was able to tell him about it."

"Of course the guy was an ass…" Lucas smiled at his glaring father. "Well he was."

"Yes," Speed sipped the coffee. "I invited the guy for dinner to meet Lucas, this was after five or six dates. So I'm fixing dinner, the guy, was well, he's got his hands all over me. Lucas announces his arrival," Horatio sat down at the table enjoying the story. "And my date was a bit surprised."

"A bit?" Lucas rolled his eyes. "He looked as if I had showed up from alien space craft." He looked at Horatio. "I was ten at the this time."

"I tell Lucas to go start his homework, and dinner would be ready in an hour." Speed smiled at his son. "The moment Lucas hit his room, my date got all fidgety. Finally, I asked what his problem was. He tells me 'You didn't mention the kid lived with you. I mean where's his mom? It’s the woman's job to raise the brats.'"

"He didn't," Horatio could only imagine Speed's expression and reaction. "You didn't kill him did you?"

"No, tossed him out on his a…" Lucas smiled at his father, "Backside. He then turns to me and says clearly..." Lucas cleared his throat. "'Son, learn this now men are assholes. If you decided to date a man they will do something stupid and break your heart. If you decided to date woman, you will do something stupid and break their heart.' He then grabbed his keys are helmets and we took off for pizza."

"He rides your bike?" Horatio asked concerned.

"Yes," Speed eyed him. "He has his own helmet."

"So now that we're one big happy family," Lucas smiled. "How about we go out and do something as a family."

Speed smiled at Horatio. "H?"

"I like the sound of that," Horatio grinned at the two of them.

"By the way dad," Lucas headed for his room. "What happened to your date?"

Speed cringed as he turned and headed for the phone. "You stood him up?"

"I was preoccupied." Speed grabbed the phone.

"I bet," Lucas looked over at Horatio who was grinning.

"Sister…how did…yeah he's here…you really do scare me." Speed laughed as he hung up.

"Sister Maria set you up on the date?" Lucas asked jaw dropped in shock.

"Not really," Speed shook her head. "It seems that it was all a set up or, as she put it, 'God works in mysterious ways.'"

"She faxed me Lucas's paper," Horatio laughed, realizing the set up.

"Sneaky," Lucas said in awe.

~*~

Speed curled up in Horatio's arms as the three watched the movie. They had enjoyed their day out. They had gone to the park, played some soccer, and had lunch at a local hamburger joint. In the afternoon they did some shopping at a local bookstore and Lucas had been thankful to finally have an ally to help him get his dad out of the shop. They had finished the day off at home eating pizza and watching movies.

Lucas yawned. "You should head off to bed." Speed suggested.

"You just want some alone time." Lucas got up and walked over to his father. He gave him a hug and kiss on the cheek. He quickly hugged Horatio and ran off.

"Night Lucas," Horatio called after him.

Lucas paused at his room, "Oh by the way dad, I met this new kid at the school. He just started St. Matthews but is in the 9th grade. Some big kids were picking on Mark and me and he told them to leave us alone. He and Mark are coming by tomorrow afternoon – is that okay?"

"What's this kid's name?" Horatio asked the paused, "Sorry…"

Speed shook his head. "I was wondering the same thing."

"Joe….He's so cool." Lucas smiled brightly then turned and went into his room closing the door behind him.

"Oh God," Speed stared at the door in shock.

"What?" Horatio asked concerned.

"He had that tone," Speed looked at him.

"What tone?" Horatio questioned.

"The one I had when I met and described Lance for the first time," Speed turned towards Horatio. "He's only twelve."

"How old where you when you met Lance?" Horatio asked.

"Twelve," Speed grumbled. "Not helping."

"Want me to run a background check?" Horatio teased, he looked at Speed. "No."

"But…"

"No," He pulled Speed to him kissing him deeply. "Trust him."

"They grow up so fast," Speed leaned against him.
Horatio held him close as he leaned back against the couch. "I love you."

"I love you, too." Speed settled comfortably content to be home in Horatio's arms.