Title: Worth the Journey
By: Carina Scott
Rating: FRAO
Summary: Jim reflects on his journey.
Pairing: Warrick/Jim

Jim came into the house, dropping his keys on the foyer table, before heading to the bedroom. Standing in the doorway, Jim took in the sight before him. Warrick lay sprawled across their California king-sized bed on his back, sheets settling low on his hips, fast asleep. Jim's gaze traveled over the beautiful muscled body, memorizing every detail. His eyes followed the strong, hard line of his lover's jaw to the fullness of his lips. He noticed the way his brow furrowed over his eyes, lashes long as the fluttered across the cheekbones. His eyes traveled down to Warrick's chest, sprinkled lightly with coarse hair, one nipple adorned by a nipple ring Jim had purchased for Warrick on his birthday. The ring featured an emerald to compliment the color of his partner's eyes. Jim let his eyes travel the trail of hair that disappeared below the sheets, going to places unknown.

Only Jim did know, and he loved that fact. The beginning of Warrick and Jim's relationship could be described as rocky at best. After the Holly Gribbs debacle, they were always at odds. It is amazing how far they have come since then. They slowly worked themselves to a professional relationship, which blossomed into a friendship after Warrick helped Jim on a case involving his daughter. After that they grew closer gradually, both realizing that the way they felt about each other wasn't entirely based upon friendship. It took a while, but they finally were able to get past themselves and finally admit their feelings to each other. After that things only got better.

They had their problems, like every couple, but they worked at it and got through it together. The journey had definitely been long and hard. They had battle scars and great stories to tell. But no matter how hard the road traveled was, no matter how many saddle sores they might have, the journey was definitely worth it.

Undressing quietly, Jim climbed in and snuggled up behind his lover. Wrapping his arms around Warrick, who relaxed completely into his embrace, Jim drifted off into a peaceful sleep.

THE END