The Perfect Alibi (2/3)
Jul. 14th, 2006 02:55 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
carinascott Title: The Perfect Alibi (2/3
Author: nicknrick4eva
Category: Angst, Challenge, Drama, Established Relationship
Rating: FRAO
Pairing: Warrick/Gil
Status of Story: Work-In-Progress
Summary: The investigation into Warrick's shooting heats up.
Disclaimer: I don't own, please don't sue.
Spoilers: All Seasons
Warnings: partner betrayal
Author Notes: Gil is slightly OOC, but considering the situation, who can blame him?
Sequel To: The Perfect Alibi
Sara's POV
So he isn't dead. Too bad, guess I didn't try hard enough. The word around the lab is that Warrick said I tried to shoot him. Of course no one believes it. Why would I have any reason to kill Warrick?
Well, they'd be wrong. I have every reason to want him gone. From the day I first met Warrick Brown, he has been the bane of my existence. At first it was simply a work-related hatred. His ignorance and weakness had caused Holly Gribbs to lose her life. How could he be so stupid as to leave a rookie CSI alone at a crime scene? Who cares if the scene had been cleared, there's a reason why we work in pairs.
Gil had called me in to work the case, seeing as everyone else had a personal stake in it. Seems Warrick was well liked by everyone in the crime lab, except maybe Jim Brass. When Gil had called me in, I jumped at the chance. I mean, for Heaven's sake, it was Gil Grissom! Who in their right mind would pass up the opportunity to work with him, even if only for one case?!? Okay, I admit, the fact that he was sexy as hell, made the decision a lot easier! I had been a fan of Gil Grissom's for years, seeing him occasionally at seminars and lectures. We eventually worked up to a sort of kinship. Coming to Vegas, I had hoped for it to become more. I was extremely disturbed by the devotion he showed to Warrick. He was willing to put his career and reputation on the line for such an undeserving man. So when he invited me to stay on, I accepted. This way I could keep an eye on him, prevent Warrick from doing any further damage to his reputation, and hopefully turn our friendship into something more.
As the years went on, our relationship deteriorated. I attribute that to Warrick's manipulation. I first noticed his ability to manipulate Gil in the Holly Gribbs case, but working at the lab I was a witness to several instances of manipulation. Gil's unfettering dedication to Warrick began to grate on my nerves. Couldn't he see that Warrick didn't deserve any of him, not even his dedication? Then when he busts that idiot scumbag Judge Cohen for tampering with evidence, I watch as him and Brass get closer, which in the end brings him closer to Grissom. Being that Jim and Gil have been best friends for numerous years, I'm sure that Jim, Warrick, and Gil had hung out a time or two. Over the numerous months after that, I watched as Gil and Warrick continued to grow closer. They begin to go to breakfast together, just the two of them. 'Yet, he wouldn't even go to dinner with me once! They work on more cases together, Gil actually laughing at Warrick's lame attempts at humor. Then I hear through the office gossip mill, that Warrick has been spending nights at Grissom's house. At his house! Seems Gil was incapable of sleeping in an empty house since his hearing had begun to fade. I didn't even notice that he had been having hearing difficulties. So I start to notice them coming in together, eating lunch together, going home together.
It was starting to annoy me that Gil was so blind to Warrick's obvious ulterior motives. Anyone with eyes could see that Warrick wanted him. The way he was always there for him, always around to help if needed, basically just being a nuisance, in my opinion. `Too bad Gil didn't see it that way.' He even took Gil out to dinner for his birthday. I didn't even know it was his birthday. After that I tried to avoid seeing them together as much as possible.
The final straw was after I had asked Gil out to dinner, again, only to be rejected yet again. I stormed off, pissed beyond belief. Earlier that day, I had walked in on Gil and Warrick in an intimate embrace in the locker room. Gil didn't notice me, but Warrick did. Later that night, after he had learned of my invitation, he confronted me in the break room after most people had gone home.
"Sara, what the hell are you trying to pull?"
"What are you talking about?" I asked in the most innocent voice I could muster.
"I'm talking about you asking Gil out. Look, I know you saw us earlier today in the locker room. And contrary to popular belief you aren't that clueless. It wasn't my intention that you find out about us that way, but know that you know, how could you ask Gil out anyway?"
"Yeah, I saw you earlier. It doesn't mean anything; you just caught him in a moment of weakness is all. He couldn't possibly be interested in you."
"A moment of weakness, huh? Well, what if I told you that this moment of weakness has been going on now for about six months?"
Recovering quickly from the shock that bit of information caused, I replied "Maybe it isn't only a moment of weakness. But it couldn't be more than a fling. There's no way Gil Grissom could be involved with someone as pathetic and undeserving as you! You haven't a clue as to what Grissom needs."
"Well, if I am so pathetic, why is Gil with me? Better yet, why can't you take Gil away from me? I know why. Hell hasn't frozen over yet. And that is exactly what would have to happen before I lose my man to a sniveling, whining, plain as a post, bitch like you! And as for me not having a clue as to what Gil needs, that might be true, but at least he is willing to let me know, let me in. As for what he doesn't need, I know that one without a doubt. You."
"You arrogant, ignorant, worthless bastard! Don't worry, you may have Gil for now, but it won't last long. I'll kill you before I allow that to happen!" Storming past him, I walked out of the break room, happy for once that it was too late to have any witnesses to that little interaction.
Later that night, as I thought about Gil, Warrick, Gil and Warrick, I knew what I had to do. Now all I needed was to find the least obvious way to put my plan into action. "You're days are numbered Warrick Brown, you're days are numbered."
Catherine's POV
I couldn't believe it. It had to be a mistake. But as I looked at the file, I knew it was true. Summing up all my courage and pushing back my rage, I marched to Gil's office. I knew he wasn't there, he had been at the hospital constantly since Warrick had been there. Well, everyday accept that first night. Shaking off the memory of my friend's voice as he told me, over the phone, what had happened at the hospital only a few hours earlier, I enter his office.
"It was Hank Gribbs," I say placing the file on the desk in front of Jim Brass. Jim had been using Gil's office since the day after Warrick was shot. Said it was better than running back and forth between the PD and the lab, since he was spending more time at the lab. Wanting to be the first one contacted when the evidence pointed to a suspect, it was more convenient.
Picking up the file, Brass quickly reads the pertinent details. "Are you sure? It could have been anyone."
"Oh, I'm sure. Remember the witness that was on her balcony during the shooting?" There was a witness to the shooting, a woman that had been sitting on her patio, enjoying the night air. She said she hadn't been able to sleep and thought the night air might do her some good. Then she heard it, a gunshot. She quickly crouched to the ground. Looking up through the wooden slats on the balcony railing, she saw a tall Caucasian man, standing over an unmoving figure. `This is for my sister,' she heard him say before he ran off, going around the back of the building.
"Of course. So you think this is in retaliation for Holly's death. I mean so many years have passed since then, couldn't there be another explanation? As likeable as Warrick is, he has to have made some enemies along the way."
"I'm sure he has, but this is the only case in which Warrick has been the direct, or indirect, cause of someone's death. He has investigated several deaths, but has only been involved after the death has occurred. I think Hank is blaming Warrick for Holly's death. You know that it was all over the media that Warrick left her alone at a scene, they blamed him for her shooting, then later her death."
Jim sighs as he gets up from behind Gil's desk. "I think you're right Catherine. Besides that, it's the only real lead we have had, so I'll follow up. Do you by chance have an address for him," he asks, holding up the file in my direction, "Considering all the investigating you did before bringing me this file."
Blushing slightly, I reply, "Yeah, got it right here. He's staying over on the corner Harts Bluff and Slate Crossing Lane." Seeing the look on Jim's face, "Yeah, I know. That's one block up from Warrick's place. I told you, Jim, we're on the right track."
As we exit Gil's office, I notice the stubborn set of Jim's jaw. Turning to me, he says, "As soon as I know anything, I'll let you know."
"I know. See ya Jim," I say, squeezing his shoulder, as I head to the lab. I hope Jim finds this asshole quickly, the sooner this case closes the better.
Greg's POV
I have always admired Gil Grissom. Since the day I joined the lab, even before that, I have envied him. That couldn't be further from what I am feeling for him now. Not only is the love of his life fighting for every breath he takes, the doctor's refuse to let Grissom in to check on Warrick.
He has been sitting in the hospital waiting room for 3 days now, only going home to bathe and change, which Catherine practically had to force him to do. His normally well groomed beard and hair is unkempt and shaggy. To sum it up, he looks a horrible mess. I sort of feel sorry for him.
Sort of. Yes, I know Warrick getting shot wasn't his fault. Yet, I can't help thinking that the episode that put Warrick into this comatose state is Grissom's fault. According to Nick, if he had only listened to Warrick, or at the very least waited until Warrick was better before defending Sara, things might be different. Or maybe not. The doctor's think the emotional turmoil triggered this, but they have also said that Warrick's blood loss could also be the cause. But at this point, that's not what matters. Whatever happens, the most important thing is for Warrick and Grissom to know that their friends are here for them, no matter what.
This brings me to the present moment. I am walking towards Grissom , making it my mission to sit with him, since I have nothing to do right now. It's my off day, so I have been designated as the one to keep him company. Not that I mind, Grissom is a good guy. Most of the time, but I guess this is the kind of situation in which even the strongest can weaken. As I sit down next to Grissom, I notice the deep worry lines in his forehead, the untouched cup of coffee sitting next to him, and the slump of his shoulders. He doesn't even notice me.
"So, have you heard anything new?" I ask, hating myself the moment the words are out of my mouth. `Of course he hasn't, they won't tell him anything.' Lack of a response from Grissom, lead me to believe he hasn't heard me at all.
No such luck. "No, he's still in a coma," Grissom answers as he slumps forward, rubbing his temples. Probably feels a migraine coming on. We sit there for a long moment, before I hear it. It sounds like hiccups first, but then I realize that Grissom is crying. Gil Grissom crying? Not knowing what else to do, I place an arm around his shoulders, hoping the gesture will give him a little reassurance that things will be okay. We sit that way for a long time, before his tears subside and he calms down again.
In a voice I have never heard from Grissom before, he speaks. "I failed him, Greg. He needed me to support him, but I couldn't see past my own pigheadedness to be there for him. Why was it so important to me that I defend Sara at that moment? My lover was lying there, in a hospital bed recovering from a gunshot wound, and all I could do was defend Sara. Why couldn't I just be there for him?" Grissom straightens up and rises from the chair he has been sitting in, my arm falling to my side.
I am glad that the waiting room is empty right now, because I can tell this is going to be a personal conversation. Not that I'm going to probe Grissom for personal info, but seems to me he needs to get a few things off of his chest. "You have a chance to make it up to him. Maybe you weren't there when he needed you, but Warrick is strong. He is fighting to stay alive, part of that has to be because of you, even if you don't think so. He loves you, Griss, no matter how much it hurts. The best thing you can do is be here for him, and hope to God that when he wakes up he will forgive you."
"If he wakes up."
"No when he wakes up. And when he does you had better do everything to prove that you believe in him, or that will be the end of any chance of you guys being together."
Grissom sighed, leaning against the wall of the waiting room. He looked so defeated, my heart ached for him.
"Look Grissom, I know that we don't know each other very well. But I do know Warrick; we've become better friends since Nick's incident. And in that short time, I have learned that it takes a lot to earn Warrick's trust, and even more to get it back once it's been lost. So my only advice is for you to do everything to prove to Warrick that you are worthy of his trust. The best place to start would be with this Sara thing."
Grissom begins to protest, but I raise my hand, stopping him. "Let me finish, please. Everyone knows that you sometimes miss the obvious social cues. However, I know that you rarely miss the evidence if it is presented in a scientific way. So let me put this to you as if it is a scientific matter. Variable A is a young woman, her life is empty, and she has nothing but her work. By chance she gets the job of her dreams. She works hard to prove her worth and value, but no one really notices. She alienates her coworkers almost as soon as she is hired. The only kindred spirit she has is just as dedicated to the lab as she is. She works hard to impress and please this friend. Slowly she begins to have feelings for this friend, and soon becomes obsessed with them due to mixed signals she has been sent. Variable B is dedicated to his job and by chance he needs someone just as devoted as he to join his team. Seeing this new team member so dedicated to her work, pleases him, so he befriends her. She mistakes the friendship for more, and he lets her down gently. Not wanting to upset her, he tells her that it is inappropriate behavior on the job rather than admitting that he just isn't interested. Then enter Variable C. Variable C begins to spend more time with Variable B, soon becoming more than friends. Variable A puts two and two together and comes up with five. In Variable A's mind, the obstacle in the way is Variable C. Do you understand now Grissom?
Sitting down in a chair across from me, with a look of intense concentration on his face, Gil responds. "I think so. Variable A is in love with Variable B, and thinks that Variable C is in the way. Is that correct?"
"You got it. Look Griss, I'm going to head to the lab, see if I can help out with something. Call me if you need to talk or if anything changes." I get up and head to the hospital exit.
Before I can reach it, Grissom is hot on my heels. "Greg, I understand your equation. What I don't understand is what it has to do with my problem with Warrick."
Sighing in frustration, "Grissom, Sara is Variable A, you are Variable B, and Warrick is Variable C. In Sara's mind, A + B - C = happily ever after. I never thought she would take her obsession with you so far, but I guess she felt love would be a good enough defense." Seeing in his eyes that the realization of what everyone had been telling him is finally registering, "See ya Griss, I'll let you know if we find anything," I say before exiting the hospital.
Jim's POV
So Catherine was right, it was Holly's brother. Seem he's had it in for Warrick since the day Holly died. He had been staying in her old apartment, the one rented out after her death. He's only been back in town for the last six months, making himself at home. His daily routine consisted of whatever Warrick was doing.
Sick bastard. I can't believe this guy has been at this for so long. Why did he wait until now? What set him off? How did he know where Warrick lived? Why hadn't Warrick noticed someone following him? All these questions would be answered as soon as I get to the precinct. Believe me, there is no way this asshole is leaving that interrogation room before I get some answers. By any means necessary.
I have requested that the only people that be allowed in on this interrogation be Catherine, myself, and Nick. Nick, however, will be in the observation room. I'm gonna have enough trouble containing my own rage, and as strong as Catherine is, I don't think she can handle an outraged Texan.
Before I go to the precinct, however, I have one stop to make. As I enter the hospital room, I am shocked to say the least. A man, so strong, vibrant, and full of life, looked so weak and young. The monitors beeping around him, the doctors and nurses coming in and out of his room to check on his progress, these where the only signs of life in the room. If I hadn't been looking closely, I would have missed the gentle rise and fall of is chest with each breath. Holding his hand, I lean over his bed rail, whispering in his ear, "Warrick, son, I know you're in there. I know you can hear me. I just want you to know that we are pulling for you, not one person has slept since this happened, not one. We will get this bastard, you just hang in there. You do your part, keep fighting, and we'll do our part." It might have been my imagination, but I swear I felt at faint squeeze on my hand. "I hear you, son, I hear you," I said before leaving his room, eyes glistening with unshed tears.
Arriving in the ICU waiting room, I see Gil. He looks terrible, but more importantly, he looks lost. Like he lost his best friend, which in a way he has. Gil is going to have to work hard to get Warrick to forgive him for this betrayal. "Gil, we know who did it."
"Who?" Gil answers, voice hoarse from the lack of use. No one at the hospital will give him any info and he's tired of asking.
"Hank Gribbs, Holly's brother."
Shock registering on his face, "Holly Gribbs? Why? Why now?"
"Well, I'm sure it's because he blames Warrick for Holly's death. Why he chose to wait so long, I'm not sure." Sighing, I sit down in an empty chair, "Gil, it seems that Hank has been watching Warrick for some time now. I don't know all the details, I'll find out more when I go to interrogate him in a few minutes. I wanted to stop in and check in on Warrick and give you an update. Look, if this thing goes to trial, your relationship with Warrick is bound to come out. Now I know that most of the people at the lab already know, and a few at the precinct have probably figured it out, but once the media gets hold of this info everyone will know. You know how police officers can be, so you need to prepare yourself for that."
"All I care about at this moment Jim, is Warrick. I want the person responsible for this placed in jail. As for our relationship being public knowledge, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. Might not have to worry about it now that since Warrick and I aren't together."
"Are you giving up on him Gil? He doesn't need that right now."
"No! I'm not giving up on Warrick, its just that in the last few days, things have changed. A lot."
"What's changed since yesterday?"
"I went home." Seeing my quizzical look, he continues, "Yesterday, I went home to shower and change clothes. I found a note on the foyer table addressed to me from Warrick. Guess I was in too much of a hurry the day before to notice it. Nevertheless, Warrick broke up with me," I can see that he is holding back, but I don't push, knowing Gil will open up when he is ready.
"Things change all the time Gil. All you can do know is change Warrick's thoughts in regards to you. Right now he believes you don't trust him, you have to show him you do. That's the only chance you have to fix things between you two."
"How is he? They won't let me see him and they refuse to give me any info. Since Nick refused to put me on the list for people allowed to visit Warrick, I can only get information from you and Catherine. All Nick says to me is that Warrick is fine, no details. I understand why he's acting like that, Warrick is his best friend, but it is still frustrating being kept in the dark."
"He's doing good Gil. He's still hanging in there. I told him that we were working around the clock on this and that everyone was pulling for him. It might be wishful thinking, but I swear I felt him squeeze my hand. So, crossing my fingers, I think he's doing quite well."
"Thanks Jim," Gil said softly, lost in thought.
"Yeah, I'll see you later. I've got a suspect to interrogate."
Nick's POV
I know everyone thinks I'm being an ass to Grissom, but I can't help it. The doctor's said Grissom could have a bad affect on Warrick's health and I can't risk it. What if Warrick has a relapse? I asked the doctor's that exact question and they said they weren't sure if his body could handle it. I decided then and there that Grissom wouldn't be allowed to see him until he's stronger. A lot stronger.
That doesn't explain my reactions to Grissom's questions every time I go visit. I keep my answers short, never stopping on my path to the hospital's exit. I can't stop myself, even though I can see the despair in Grissom's eyes everyday I leave him wondering how Warrick really is doing. I'm pissed at him for not trusting Warrick, pissed at Warrick for allowing Gil's actions to affect him like this, and pissed at myself for being so selfish. I'm know being irrational. Greg says it's because I'm angry, and anger isn't rational. I laughed and asked him when he became so smart. Being Greg, he responded, `I've always been this smart, you just started to notice.'
Maybe he's right. About anger being irrational, not him being smart. I have no reason to be so mad at everyone. I have snapped at pretty much everyone in the lab. Hodges looked at me as if I had lost my mind, Jacqui tried her best to avoid me, and Catherine, of course, called me on it. "Nick, you have no monopoly on concern. We are all worried about Warrick and snapping at everyone isn't helping, so quit it. We need you on top of your game if we are gonna find the ass, or asses, that did this." Then she stalked away, with that purposeful stride of hers.
So after that, I did my best to control my anger. I prayed that by the end of this case, I still had a few friends left. But first we have to close the case, which brings me to the present moment.
As I look through the observation glass, into the interrogation room, my gut twists in rage. Hank Gribbs, the asshole that had been responsible for Warrick getting shot, sat on the other side, across from Jim and Catherine. Oh yeah, this case can't be closed soon enough.
Hank's POV
She's kind of cute, in a Mrs. Robinson sort of way, but cute all the same. From the way her arms are crossed in front of her lovely chest, I can see that she is livid. I look over to the older gentlemen sitting to her right, he looks even more irate than her.
"So why am I here?" I ask, seeing as neither of them has made any attempt to tell me why I was called in.
"So you like to jump in head first do you? Well, fine, we'll play it your way. Do you know a man by the name of Warrick Brown?"
Masking my surprise, "No, who is he?"
Leaning forward, the redhead places her hand over mine, "You know,drumming your fingers on the tabletop is sign nervousness. What do you have to be nervous about?"
"So, you don't know who Warrick Brown is?" the detective asks.
"I already told you that I don't know who that is." Standing up, "Now, if you haven't anything else, I'll be leaving, thank you."
"Sit down Mr. Grimes, we aren't finished here." Walking back to my seat I sit down heavily. "I know for a fact you know who Mr. Brown is. You've been stalking him for the last six months," he says, opening a folder full of photos that I had taken.
"Well, if he had caused your sister's death, you would be watching him too."
"Maybe so, but your actions went well past watching, didn't they?"
"I don't know what you're talking about."
"Look Mr. Grimes, I'm sorry, Gribbs, we have all the evidence we need to put you away. All I want right now is for you to tell me who your accomplice is."
"Since you seem to know everything why don't you tell me."
"Fine, don't talk, just listen for a while. We know you have an accomplice. You know how we know?" Selecting a picture from the table, he holds it up for me to see, "This picture tells us all we need to know. There is no way that you took this picture yourself, since you're in it. And don't try to sell me on `I used a stationary camera'. You see the blur in the photo, the experts tell me that whoever took this photo was in motion. Maybe in a car, walking, whatever the case may be. This photo was taken by a person, your accomplice." I watch as the detective and the redhead stand to leave, only pausing long enough for the detective to speak to me once more.
"I'm gonna give you a little time to think. You may decide not to tell us who it is, but rest assured, we will figure it out. When we do, any leniency we might have had towards you will be gone. Happy thoughts," he says as they leave the room and I am left alone with my thoughts.
Doc Robbin's POV
It's rare that I venture from the cozy confines from the morgue for more than the occasional cup of Greg's terrific coffee. However, when I heard through the CSI grapevine that Jim and Catherine were interrogating the man suspected of shooting Warrick, I couldn't resist. Making my way down the hall, I couldn't help but think about Warrick.
Sure, Warrick was more of an associate than a friend, but I still cared. More so since he had started dating Gil. Gil and I had been friends for years, working with one another the longest of anyone at the lab. In that time as friends and coworkers, I had watched Gil withdraw into himself, shying away from human interaction. Gil had never been much of a social butterfly, but he did date occasionally. However, most people, men and women alike, didn't understand Gil. He was different and he looked at the world differently. Those he dated often tried to change him, make him more like they wanted him to be, before finally realizing that Gil was, well Gil, and he wasn't going to change. After several years of one disaster date after another, Gil pretty much stopped dating all together. Occasionally he would date, for instance Teri Miller, a few nameless others, and his brief infatuation with Lady Heather, but eventually he would go back to the same old Gil. That is until he grew closer to Warrick. Warrick had been working with Gil for several years before they dated, but from day one he had a profound impact on his life.
I was skeptical of Warrick at first, especially when Gil risked his career and reputation for him after the Holly Gribbs incident. But after witnessing the positive affect Warrick had on Gil, I relaxed. Warrick didn't try to change Gil into someone he wasn't, he just accepted him for who he was. Gil soon became more social, going out occasionally, mainly with Warrick to dinner. He laughed more, cracking the occasional joke, which left random lab techs in shock. All in all, Warrick was good for Gil. When Gil told me about Warrick sacrificing his comfort for Gil's sanity, by sleeping on his couch before his surgery, I was amazed. After that, I placed Warrick on the short list of people I truly respected. Although we never became the best of friends, we have a strong kinship. He loves Gil, and so do I. However different our love for Gil may be, it's the one thing that we share, and that's enough for us.
As I enter the observation room, I find it's already full. Nick is standing there, oblivious of my presence, jaw set in a rigid line. Catherine is standing to his right, hand on her hips, wearing the look of a woman ready to let lose all the rage she has ever felt. My eyes then land on Jim, standing to Nick's immediate left, closest to me. He has this smug look of satisfaction on his face. "So what's up guys?" Obviously I break their concentration, because they all look at me as if I just landed here from planet Zoron.
Jim recovers first, "Nothing, just waiting and watching our suspect squirm."
My attention is brought back to my original reason for journeying this far from the comfort of my morgue. I look through the glass, seeing a man looking very uncomfortable, sitting in a chair. Confused, I look back at Jim, "What is Sara's boyfriend doing here?" All I hear in response is a collective gasp from all three occupants of the room.
Sara's POV
I can't believe this. That snake. How could he sell me out? I made all this possible. He got his revenge and I was about to get my man. What could be better than that?
"So Sara, do you wish to explain yourself?" Jim asks me, smug expression on his face. Oh, two can play this game.
"Explain myself about what? Look Jim, I don't know why I'm here, but I suggest you get to the point, because I have more important things to do."
"Fine, I'll get to the point. Do you know Hank Gribbs?" Smiliing, he continues, "I'm sorry, you probably only know him as Hank Grimes."
Acting confused, I ask, "What are you talking about, Jim? Of course I know Hank Grimes, I have been dating him for the past six months! But I don't know any Hank Gribbs."
"You remember Holly Gribbs? Of course you do, she's the reason why you're working here. Well, Hank Grimes, as you call him, is Hank Gribbs, Holly's brother. But, you already know that don't you?"
Putting on my best `shocked' expression, "Hank is, was, Holly's brother? How was I supposed to know that!?!"
"According to Hank, you helped him implement his plan. He said you tracked him down nine months ago, and the two of you came up with a plan to get rid of Warrick. Three months after you met him, you went to Grissom, asking for his help in getting your friend a position in the crime lab. Seeing as Danielle, the Days tech, was leaving in two weeks, so she could be a stay-at-home mom after her baby was born, Gil was desperate for a replacement. So after looking over Hank's credentials, and trusting your judgment, Gil approved the transfer. Pretty smooth if I must say so myself, using Gil to get Hank transferred, too bad that was the only part of your plan that worked out. Hank, being upset over Holly's death wanted to make Warrick pay for his actions. You wanted to get rid of Warrick, seeing as he was in the way of your delusions of a happily-ever-after with Gil. Unfortunately for you, you let your anger get away from you. Had you not threatened Warrick the day of the shooting, he would have never fingered you. Had Hank been a better shot, Warrick wouldn't have lived to say anything. Had you simply realized that Gil doesn't want you, never has and never will, you might have avoided this entire situation. Did I miss anything?"
"Yeah, evidence," I reply, hating how accurate his conclusions are.
"Oh, you mean besides Hank singing like Mariah Carey? Well, we have photos, taken by you. We have fingerprints left in Hanks home, all yours."
Smirking, I reply "Seeing as how you can't determine who took a picture, that is inconclusive. My fingerprints being at Hank's place means nothing, we've been dating for six months. I had no idea he was Holly's brother. So short of all that, you will indeed have to do a lot better."
Catherine, who had been watching the whole time, moved from her post against the interrogation room wall. Removing a photo from the file folder in her hand, she shoves it across the table to me. "What's this?" I ask as I look at the photo in my hand.
"Glad you asked," replies Catherine as she sits down across from me. "This, you ask, is a photo taken by you of Warrick at a restaurant with Gil. See here in the background? That's Hank, your boyfriend. Notice anything else?"
Looking closer, I see nothing. "No."
"Let me show you, but first let me give you a lesson in photography. When you take a picture, using flash, everything in the picture is revealed. Especially when the photo is take in front of a rolled up window. Was it a chilly night? Doesn't matter, what does matter is this," she says gesturing to the photo. "As I said before, flash reveals everything; even what you think may be hidden. When you took this picture, you captured yourself too. To the naked eye it might not be able to be seen, but thanks to our wonderful crime lab and its incredible team of lab techs, we can see that which was not possible to see before. We see you, well, your reflection, in the window. The high fluorescence of the flash made the window act as a mirror, reflecting your image back to you. So had you not thought to spy on Warrick and Gil, you might have never been caught. As you said before, the evidence we had was nothing but pure speculation. However, with this photo, I think that will be enough to convict."
As I sit there reeling from the shock, Jim comes around to my chair. Pulling me to my feet, I hear the sounds of the handcuffs as they click around my wrists. "Sara Sidle, you have the right to remain silent. If you give up that right, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney and to have an attorney present during questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided to you at no cost. During any questioning, you may decide at any time to exercise these rights, not answer any questions, or make any statements."
As he walks me out of the interrogation room, and down the halls of the lab, I see the looks of shock on the various faces appearing in the hall. Then I see him, and I know everything will be all right.
Gil's POV
As I race to the lab, all I can hear is Nick's voice over and over in my head. `Warrick was right, it is Sara. You need to get to the lab ASAP.' The next thing I know, I'm running out of the hospital, jumping in my Denali, speeding to the lab.
I don't know how I got here without causing any wrecks; my mind was not even focused on driving. All I could think of is that I had failed Warrick. He needed me to believe him, and I didn't. Why, I'm still not sure, but all I know, as I race up the steps, is that when he wakes up, I will make it up to him.
As I enter the lab, Sara is coming down the hall, handcuffed. Although Nick had told me she did it, it's still a shock. As they near, I see Sara's face break into a smile. Why the hell is she so damn happy?
"Gil, you came. I knew you would. I told Warrick that you loved me, not him. He wouldn't listen, but that's okay, I made sure he wouldn't get in the way."
"Sara, what are you talking about? I don't love you, I'm sorry for not saying so sooner, but I don't."
"Gil, you don't have to keep pretending. Everyone knows you love me. And now that Warrick is out of the picture, we can finally be together. I know he didn't die, but still, he is in a coma. He will not be an issue for us ever again. So, you see, we can be together."
"Sara. Sara! You hired someone to kill Warrick!" She looks at me, as if she has just seen me for the first time. "I don't know if I gave you mixed signals or what. But hear me now, I DON'T love you. I never have and I never will. I thought it was fairly common knowledge, but I love Warrick." Hearing a few gasps of shock, I'm sure not as many people knew as I thought, but I don't care. "We can never be together, NEVER!"
Jim drags her away, as she screams behind me, "Gil, please Gil, don't do this! I know you love me, you just need time. We have time! Gil! Gil! I love you!"
I cringe as I hear her voice fade away. "Everyone get back to work, NOW!" I hear Catherine bark to the crowd that has gathered for our little display. Making my way to my office I collapse into my chair. Sighing, I remove my glasses, rubbing the bridge of my nose. Hearing a faint knock on my door, I answer, "Go away."
Hearing the door open, I look up; Nick is standing in my doorway. "Nick, I don't feel like discussing it right now. I know Warrick was right, and I know I should have listened to him. I just don't have the energy to deal with your guilt trip and mine at the same time."
"Warrick's awake," Nick says before closing the door and walking away.
TBC
So he isn't dead. Too bad, guess I didn't try hard enough. The word around the lab is that Warrick said I tried to shoot him. Of course no one believes it. Why would I have any reason to kill Warrick?
Well, they'd be wrong. I have every reason to want him gone. From the day I first met Warrick Brown, he has been the bane of my existence. At first it was simply a work-related hatred. His ignorance and weakness had caused Holly Gribbs to lose her life. How could he be so stupid as to leave a rookie CSI alone at a crime scene? Who cares if the scene had been cleared, there's a reason why we work in pairs.
Gil had called me in to work the case, seeing as everyone else had a personal stake in it. Seems Warrick was well liked by everyone in the crime lab, except maybe Jim Brass. When Gil had called me in, I jumped at the chance. I mean, for Heaven's sake, it was Gil Grissom! Who in their right mind would pass up the opportunity to work with him, even if only for one case?!? Okay, I admit, the fact that he was sexy as hell, made the decision a lot easier! I had been a fan of Gil Grissom's for years, seeing him occasionally at seminars and lectures. We eventually worked up to a sort of kinship. Coming to Vegas, I had hoped for it to become more. I was extremely disturbed by the devotion he showed to Warrick. He was willing to put his career and reputation on the line for such an undeserving man. So when he invited me to stay on, I accepted. This way I could keep an eye on him, prevent Warrick from doing any further damage to his reputation, and hopefully turn our friendship into something more.
As the years went on, our relationship deteriorated. I attribute that to Warrick's manipulation. I first noticed his ability to manipulate Gil in the Holly Gribbs case, but working at the lab I was a witness to several instances of manipulation. Gil's unfettering dedication to Warrick began to grate on my nerves. Couldn't he see that Warrick didn't deserve any of him, not even his dedication? Then when he busts that idiot scumbag Judge Cohen for tampering with evidence, I watch as him and Brass get closer, which in the end brings him closer to Grissom. Being that Jim and Gil have been best friends for numerous years, I'm sure that Jim, Warrick, and Gil had hung out a time or two. Over the numerous months after that, I watched as Gil and Warrick continued to grow closer. They begin to go to breakfast together, just the two of them. 'Yet, he wouldn't even go to dinner with me once! They work on more cases together, Gil actually laughing at Warrick's lame attempts at humor. Then I hear through the office gossip mill, that Warrick has been spending nights at Grissom's house. At his house! Seems Gil was incapable of sleeping in an empty house since his hearing had begun to fade. I didn't even notice that he had been having hearing difficulties. So I start to notice them coming in together, eating lunch together, going home together.
It was starting to annoy me that Gil was so blind to Warrick's obvious ulterior motives. Anyone with eyes could see that Warrick wanted him. The way he was always there for him, always around to help if needed, basically just being a nuisance, in my opinion. `Too bad Gil didn't see it that way.' He even took Gil out to dinner for his birthday. I didn't even know it was his birthday. After that I tried to avoid seeing them together as much as possible.
The final straw was after I had asked Gil out to dinner, again, only to be rejected yet again. I stormed off, pissed beyond belief. Earlier that day, I had walked in on Gil and Warrick in an intimate embrace in the locker room. Gil didn't notice me, but Warrick did. Later that night, after he had learned of my invitation, he confronted me in the break room after most people had gone home.
"Sara, what the hell are you trying to pull?"
"What are you talking about?" I asked in the most innocent voice I could muster.
"I'm talking about you asking Gil out. Look, I know you saw us earlier today in the locker room. And contrary to popular belief you aren't that clueless. It wasn't my intention that you find out about us that way, but know that you know, how could you ask Gil out anyway?"
"Yeah, I saw you earlier. It doesn't mean anything; you just caught him in a moment of weakness is all. He couldn't possibly be interested in you."
"A moment of weakness, huh? Well, what if I told you that this moment of weakness has been going on now for about six months?"
Recovering quickly from the shock that bit of information caused, I replied "Maybe it isn't only a moment of weakness. But it couldn't be more than a fling. There's no way Gil Grissom could be involved with someone as pathetic and undeserving as you! You haven't a clue as to what Grissom needs."
"Well, if I am so pathetic, why is Gil with me? Better yet, why can't you take Gil away from me? I know why. Hell hasn't frozen over yet. And that is exactly what would have to happen before I lose my man to a sniveling, whining, plain as a post, bitch like you! And as for me not having a clue as to what Gil needs, that might be true, but at least he is willing to let me know, let me in. As for what he doesn't need, I know that one without a doubt. You."
"You arrogant, ignorant, worthless bastard! Don't worry, you may have Gil for now, but it won't last long. I'll kill you before I allow that to happen!" Storming past him, I walked out of the break room, happy for once that it was too late to have any witnesses to that little interaction.
Later that night, as I thought about Gil, Warrick, Gil and Warrick, I knew what I had to do. Now all I needed was to find the least obvious way to put my plan into action. "You're days are numbered Warrick Brown, you're days are numbered."
Catherine's POV
I couldn't believe it. It had to be a mistake. But as I looked at the file, I knew it was true. Summing up all my courage and pushing back my rage, I marched to Gil's office. I knew he wasn't there, he had been at the hospital constantly since Warrick had been there. Well, everyday accept that first night. Shaking off the memory of my friend's voice as he told me, over the phone, what had happened at the hospital only a few hours earlier, I enter his office.
"It was Hank Gribbs," I say placing the file on the desk in front of Jim Brass. Jim had been using Gil's office since the day after Warrick was shot. Said it was better than running back and forth between the PD and the lab, since he was spending more time at the lab. Wanting to be the first one contacted when the evidence pointed to a suspect, it was more convenient.
Picking up the file, Brass quickly reads the pertinent details. "Are you sure? It could have been anyone."
"Oh, I'm sure. Remember the witness that was on her balcony during the shooting?" There was a witness to the shooting, a woman that had been sitting on her patio, enjoying the night air. She said she hadn't been able to sleep and thought the night air might do her some good. Then she heard it, a gunshot. She quickly crouched to the ground. Looking up through the wooden slats on the balcony railing, she saw a tall Caucasian man, standing over an unmoving figure. `This is for my sister,' she heard him say before he ran off, going around the back of the building.
"Of course. So you think this is in retaliation for Holly's death. I mean so many years have passed since then, couldn't there be another explanation? As likeable as Warrick is, he has to have made some enemies along the way."
"I'm sure he has, but this is the only case in which Warrick has been the direct, or indirect, cause of someone's death. He has investigated several deaths, but has only been involved after the death has occurred. I think Hank is blaming Warrick for Holly's death. You know that it was all over the media that Warrick left her alone at a scene, they blamed him for her shooting, then later her death."
Jim sighs as he gets up from behind Gil's desk. "I think you're right Catherine. Besides that, it's the only real lead we have had, so I'll follow up. Do you by chance have an address for him," he asks, holding up the file in my direction, "Considering all the investigating you did before bringing me this file."
Blushing slightly, I reply, "Yeah, got it right here. He's staying over on the corner Harts Bluff and Slate Crossing Lane." Seeing the look on Jim's face, "Yeah, I know. That's one block up from Warrick's place. I told you, Jim, we're on the right track."
As we exit Gil's office, I notice the stubborn set of Jim's jaw. Turning to me, he says, "As soon as I know anything, I'll let you know."
"I know. See ya Jim," I say, squeezing his shoulder, as I head to the lab. I hope Jim finds this asshole quickly, the sooner this case closes the better.
Greg's POV
I have always admired Gil Grissom. Since the day I joined the lab, even before that, I have envied him. That couldn't be further from what I am feeling for him now. Not only is the love of his life fighting for every breath he takes, the doctor's refuse to let Grissom in to check on Warrick.
He has been sitting in the hospital waiting room for 3 days now, only going home to bathe and change, which Catherine practically had to force him to do. His normally well groomed beard and hair is unkempt and shaggy. To sum it up, he looks a horrible mess. I sort of feel sorry for him.
Sort of. Yes, I know Warrick getting shot wasn't his fault. Yet, I can't help thinking that the episode that put Warrick into this comatose state is Grissom's fault. According to Nick, if he had only listened to Warrick, or at the very least waited until Warrick was better before defending Sara, things might be different. Or maybe not. The doctor's think the emotional turmoil triggered this, but they have also said that Warrick's blood loss could also be the cause. But at this point, that's not what matters. Whatever happens, the most important thing is for Warrick and Grissom to know that their friends are here for them, no matter what.
This brings me to the present moment. I am walking towards Grissom , making it my mission to sit with him, since I have nothing to do right now. It's my off day, so I have been designated as the one to keep him company. Not that I mind, Grissom is a good guy. Most of the time, but I guess this is the kind of situation in which even the strongest can weaken. As I sit down next to Grissom, I notice the deep worry lines in his forehead, the untouched cup of coffee sitting next to him, and the slump of his shoulders. He doesn't even notice me.
"So, have you heard anything new?" I ask, hating myself the moment the words are out of my mouth. `Of course he hasn't, they won't tell him anything.' Lack of a response from Grissom, lead me to believe he hasn't heard me at all.
No such luck. "No, he's still in a coma," Grissom answers as he slumps forward, rubbing his temples. Probably feels a migraine coming on. We sit there for a long moment, before I hear it. It sounds like hiccups first, but then I realize that Grissom is crying. Gil Grissom crying? Not knowing what else to do, I place an arm around his shoulders, hoping the gesture will give him a little reassurance that things will be okay. We sit that way for a long time, before his tears subside and he calms down again.
In a voice I have never heard from Grissom before, he speaks. "I failed him, Greg. He needed me to support him, but I couldn't see past my own pigheadedness to be there for him. Why was it so important to me that I defend Sara at that moment? My lover was lying there, in a hospital bed recovering from a gunshot wound, and all I could do was defend Sara. Why couldn't I just be there for him?" Grissom straightens up and rises from the chair he has been sitting in, my arm falling to my side.
I am glad that the waiting room is empty right now, because I can tell this is going to be a personal conversation. Not that I'm going to probe Grissom for personal info, but seems to me he needs to get a few things off of his chest. "You have a chance to make it up to him. Maybe you weren't there when he needed you, but Warrick is strong. He is fighting to stay alive, part of that has to be because of you, even if you don't think so. He loves you, Griss, no matter how much it hurts. The best thing you can do is be here for him, and hope to God that when he wakes up he will forgive you."
"If he wakes up."
"No when he wakes up. And when he does you had better do everything to prove that you believe in him, or that will be the end of any chance of you guys being together."
Grissom sighed, leaning against the wall of the waiting room. He looked so defeated, my heart ached for him.
"Look Grissom, I know that we don't know each other very well. But I do know Warrick; we've become better friends since Nick's incident. And in that short time, I have learned that it takes a lot to earn Warrick's trust, and even more to get it back once it's been lost. So my only advice is for you to do everything to prove to Warrick that you are worthy of his trust. The best place to start would be with this Sara thing."
Grissom begins to protest, but I raise my hand, stopping him. "Let me finish, please. Everyone knows that you sometimes miss the obvious social cues. However, I know that you rarely miss the evidence if it is presented in a scientific way. So let me put this to you as if it is a scientific matter. Variable A is a young woman, her life is empty, and she has nothing but her work. By chance she gets the job of her dreams. She works hard to prove her worth and value, but no one really notices. She alienates her coworkers almost as soon as she is hired. The only kindred spirit she has is just as dedicated to the lab as she is. She works hard to impress and please this friend. Slowly she begins to have feelings for this friend, and soon becomes obsessed with them due to mixed signals she has been sent. Variable B is dedicated to his job and by chance he needs someone just as devoted as he to join his team. Seeing this new team member so dedicated to her work, pleases him, so he befriends her. She mistakes the friendship for more, and he lets her down gently. Not wanting to upset her, he tells her that it is inappropriate behavior on the job rather than admitting that he just isn't interested. Then enter Variable C. Variable C begins to spend more time with Variable B, soon becoming more than friends. Variable A puts two and two together and comes up with five. In Variable A's mind, the obstacle in the way is Variable C. Do you understand now Grissom?
Sitting down in a chair across from me, with a look of intense concentration on his face, Gil responds. "I think so. Variable A is in love with Variable B, and thinks that Variable C is in the way. Is that correct?"
"You got it. Look Griss, I'm going to head to the lab, see if I can help out with something. Call me if you need to talk or if anything changes." I get up and head to the hospital exit.
Before I can reach it, Grissom is hot on my heels. "Greg, I understand your equation. What I don't understand is what it has to do with my problem with Warrick."
Sighing in frustration, "Grissom, Sara is Variable A, you are Variable B, and Warrick is Variable C. In Sara's mind, A + B - C = happily ever after. I never thought she would take her obsession with you so far, but I guess she felt love would be a good enough defense." Seeing in his eyes that the realization of what everyone had been telling him is finally registering, "See ya Griss, I'll let you know if we find anything," I say before exiting the hospital.
Jim's POV
So Catherine was right, it was Holly's brother. Seem he's had it in for Warrick since the day Holly died. He had been staying in her old apartment, the one rented out after her death. He's only been back in town for the last six months, making himself at home. His daily routine consisted of whatever Warrick was doing.
Sick bastard. I can't believe this guy has been at this for so long. Why did he wait until now? What set him off? How did he know where Warrick lived? Why hadn't Warrick noticed someone following him? All these questions would be answered as soon as I get to the precinct. Believe me, there is no way this asshole is leaving that interrogation room before I get some answers. By any means necessary.
I have requested that the only people that be allowed in on this interrogation be Catherine, myself, and Nick. Nick, however, will be in the observation room. I'm gonna have enough trouble containing my own rage, and as strong as Catherine is, I don't think she can handle an outraged Texan.
Before I go to the precinct, however, I have one stop to make. As I enter the hospital room, I am shocked to say the least. A man, so strong, vibrant, and full of life, looked so weak and young. The monitors beeping around him, the doctors and nurses coming in and out of his room to check on his progress, these where the only signs of life in the room. If I hadn't been looking closely, I would have missed the gentle rise and fall of is chest with each breath. Holding his hand, I lean over his bed rail, whispering in his ear, "Warrick, son, I know you're in there. I know you can hear me. I just want you to know that we are pulling for you, not one person has slept since this happened, not one. We will get this bastard, you just hang in there. You do your part, keep fighting, and we'll do our part." It might have been my imagination, but I swear I felt at faint squeeze on my hand. "I hear you, son, I hear you," I said before leaving his room, eyes glistening with unshed tears.
Arriving in the ICU waiting room, I see Gil. He looks terrible, but more importantly, he looks lost. Like he lost his best friend, which in a way he has. Gil is going to have to work hard to get Warrick to forgive him for this betrayal. "Gil, we know who did it."
"Who?" Gil answers, voice hoarse from the lack of use. No one at the hospital will give him any info and he's tired of asking.
"Hank Gribbs, Holly's brother."
Shock registering on his face, "Holly Gribbs? Why? Why now?"
"Well, I'm sure it's because he blames Warrick for Holly's death. Why he chose to wait so long, I'm not sure." Sighing, I sit down in an empty chair, "Gil, it seems that Hank has been watching Warrick for some time now. I don't know all the details, I'll find out more when I go to interrogate him in a few minutes. I wanted to stop in and check in on Warrick and give you an update. Look, if this thing goes to trial, your relationship with Warrick is bound to come out. Now I know that most of the people at the lab already know, and a few at the precinct have probably figured it out, but once the media gets hold of this info everyone will know. You know how police officers can be, so you need to prepare yourself for that."
"All I care about at this moment Jim, is Warrick. I want the person responsible for this placed in jail. As for our relationship being public knowledge, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. Might not have to worry about it now that since Warrick and I aren't together."
"Are you giving up on him Gil? He doesn't need that right now."
"No! I'm not giving up on Warrick, its just that in the last few days, things have changed. A lot."
"What's changed since yesterday?"
"I went home." Seeing my quizzical look, he continues, "Yesterday, I went home to shower and change clothes. I found a note on the foyer table addressed to me from Warrick. Guess I was in too much of a hurry the day before to notice it. Nevertheless, Warrick broke up with me," I can see that he is holding back, but I don't push, knowing Gil will open up when he is ready.
"Things change all the time Gil. All you can do know is change Warrick's thoughts in regards to you. Right now he believes you don't trust him, you have to show him you do. That's the only chance you have to fix things between you two."
"How is he? They won't let me see him and they refuse to give me any info. Since Nick refused to put me on the list for people allowed to visit Warrick, I can only get information from you and Catherine. All Nick says to me is that Warrick is fine, no details. I understand why he's acting like that, Warrick is his best friend, but it is still frustrating being kept in the dark."
"He's doing good Gil. He's still hanging in there. I told him that we were working around the clock on this and that everyone was pulling for him. It might be wishful thinking, but I swear I felt him squeeze my hand. So, crossing my fingers, I think he's doing quite well."
"Thanks Jim," Gil said softly, lost in thought.
"Yeah, I'll see you later. I've got a suspect to interrogate."
Nick's POV
I know everyone thinks I'm being an ass to Grissom, but I can't help it. The doctor's said Grissom could have a bad affect on Warrick's health and I can't risk it. What if Warrick has a relapse? I asked the doctor's that exact question and they said they weren't sure if his body could handle it. I decided then and there that Grissom wouldn't be allowed to see him until he's stronger. A lot stronger.
That doesn't explain my reactions to Grissom's questions every time I go visit. I keep my answers short, never stopping on my path to the hospital's exit. I can't stop myself, even though I can see the despair in Grissom's eyes everyday I leave him wondering how Warrick really is doing. I'm pissed at him for not trusting Warrick, pissed at Warrick for allowing Gil's actions to affect him like this, and pissed at myself for being so selfish. I'm know being irrational. Greg says it's because I'm angry, and anger isn't rational. I laughed and asked him when he became so smart. Being Greg, he responded, `I've always been this smart, you just started to notice.'
Maybe he's right. About anger being irrational, not him being smart. I have no reason to be so mad at everyone. I have snapped at pretty much everyone in the lab. Hodges looked at me as if I had lost my mind, Jacqui tried her best to avoid me, and Catherine, of course, called me on it. "Nick, you have no monopoly on concern. We are all worried about Warrick and snapping at everyone isn't helping, so quit it. We need you on top of your game if we are gonna find the ass, or asses, that did this." Then she stalked away, with that purposeful stride of hers.
So after that, I did my best to control my anger. I prayed that by the end of this case, I still had a few friends left. But first we have to close the case, which brings me to the present moment.
As I look through the observation glass, into the interrogation room, my gut twists in rage. Hank Gribbs, the asshole that had been responsible for Warrick getting shot, sat on the other side, across from Jim and Catherine. Oh yeah, this case can't be closed soon enough.
Hank's POV
She's kind of cute, in a Mrs. Robinson sort of way, but cute all the same. From the way her arms are crossed in front of her lovely chest, I can see that she is livid. I look over to the older gentlemen sitting to her right, he looks even more irate than her.
"So why am I here?" I ask, seeing as neither of them has made any attempt to tell me why I was called in.
"So you like to jump in head first do you? Well, fine, we'll play it your way. Do you know a man by the name of Warrick Brown?"
Masking my surprise, "No, who is he?"
Leaning forward, the redhead places her hand over mine, "You know,drumming your fingers on the tabletop is sign nervousness. What do you have to be nervous about?"
"So, you don't know who Warrick Brown is?" the detective asks.
"I already told you that I don't know who that is." Standing up, "Now, if you haven't anything else, I'll be leaving, thank you."
"Sit down Mr. Grimes, we aren't finished here." Walking back to my seat I sit down heavily. "I know for a fact you know who Mr. Brown is. You've been stalking him for the last six months," he says, opening a folder full of photos that I had taken.
"Well, if he had caused your sister's death, you would be watching him too."
"Maybe so, but your actions went well past watching, didn't they?"
"I don't know what you're talking about."
"Look Mr. Grimes, I'm sorry, Gribbs, we have all the evidence we need to put you away. All I want right now is for you to tell me who your accomplice is."
"Since you seem to know everything why don't you tell me."
"Fine, don't talk, just listen for a while. We know you have an accomplice. You know how we know?" Selecting a picture from the table, he holds it up for me to see, "This picture tells us all we need to know. There is no way that you took this picture yourself, since you're in it. And don't try to sell me on `I used a stationary camera'. You see the blur in the photo, the experts tell me that whoever took this photo was in motion. Maybe in a car, walking, whatever the case may be. This photo was taken by a person, your accomplice." I watch as the detective and the redhead stand to leave, only pausing long enough for the detective to speak to me once more.
"I'm gonna give you a little time to think. You may decide not to tell us who it is, but rest assured, we will figure it out. When we do, any leniency we might have had towards you will be gone. Happy thoughts," he says as they leave the room and I am left alone with my thoughts.
Doc Robbin's POV
It's rare that I venture from the cozy confines from the morgue for more than the occasional cup of Greg's terrific coffee. However, when I heard through the CSI grapevine that Jim and Catherine were interrogating the man suspected of shooting Warrick, I couldn't resist. Making my way down the hall, I couldn't help but think about Warrick.
Sure, Warrick was more of an associate than a friend, but I still cared. More so since he had started dating Gil. Gil and I had been friends for years, working with one another the longest of anyone at the lab. In that time as friends and coworkers, I had watched Gil withdraw into himself, shying away from human interaction. Gil had never been much of a social butterfly, but he did date occasionally. However, most people, men and women alike, didn't understand Gil. He was different and he looked at the world differently. Those he dated often tried to change him, make him more like they wanted him to be, before finally realizing that Gil was, well Gil, and he wasn't going to change. After several years of one disaster date after another, Gil pretty much stopped dating all together. Occasionally he would date, for instance Teri Miller, a few nameless others, and his brief infatuation with Lady Heather, but eventually he would go back to the same old Gil. That is until he grew closer to Warrick. Warrick had been working with Gil for several years before they dated, but from day one he had a profound impact on his life.
I was skeptical of Warrick at first, especially when Gil risked his career and reputation for him after the Holly Gribbs incident. But after witnessing the positive affect Warrick had on Gil, I relaxed. Warrick didn't try to change Gil into someone he wasn't, he just accepted him for who he was. Gil soon became more social, going out occasionally, mainly with Warrick to dinner. He laughed more, cracking the occasional joke, which left random lab techs in shock. All in all, Warrick was good for Gil. When Gil told me about Warrick sacrificing his comfort for Gil's sanity, by sleeping on his couch before his surgery, I was amazed. After that, I placed Warrick on the short list of people I truly respected. Although we never became the best of friends, we have a strong kinship. He loves Gil, and so do I. However different our love for Gil may be, it's the one thing that we share, and that's enough for us.
As I enter the observation room, I find it's already full. Nick is standing there, oblivious of my presence, jaw set in a rigid line. Catherine is standing to his right, hand on her hips, wearing the look of a woman ready to let lose all the rage she has ever felt. My eyes then land on Jim, standing to Nick's immediate left, closest to me. He has this smug look of satisfaction on his face. "So what's up guys?" Obviously I break their concentration, because they all look at me as if I just landed here from planet Zoron.
Jim recovers first, "Nothing, just waiting and watching our suspect squirm."
My attention is brought back to my original reason for journeying this far from the comfort of my morgue. I look through the glass, seeing a man looking very uncomfortable, sitting in a chair. Confused, I look back at Jim, "What is Sara's boyfriend doing here?" All I hear in response is a collective gasp from all three occupants of the room.
Sara's POV
I can't believe this. That snake. How could he sell me out? I made all this possible. He got his revenge and I was about to get my man. What could be better than that?
"So Sara, do you wish to explain yourself?" Jim asks me, smug expression on his face. Oh, two can play this game.
"Explain myself about what? Look Jim, I don't know why I'm here, but I suggest you get to the point, because I have more important things to do."
"Fine, I'll get to the point. Do you know Hank Gribbs?" Smiliing, he continues, "I'm sorry, you probably only know him as Hank Grimes."
Acting confused, I ask, "What are you talking about, Jim? Of course I know Hank Grimes, I have been dating him for the past six months! But I don't know any Hank Gribbs."
"You remember Holly Gribbs? Of course you do, she's the reason why you're working here. Well, Hank Grimes, as you call him, is Hank Gribbs, Holly's brother. But, you already know that don't you?"
Putting on my best `shocked' expression, "Hank is, was, Holly's brother? How was I supposed to know that!?!"
"According to Hank, you helped him implement his plan. He said you tracked him down nine months ago, and the two of you came up with a plan to get rid of Warrick. Three months after you met him, you went to Grissom, asking for his help in getting your friend a position in the crime lab. Seeing as Danielle, the Days tech, was leaving in two weeks, so she could be a stay-at-home mom after her baby was born, Gil was desperate for a replacement. So after looking over Hank's credentials, and trusting your judgment, Gil approved the transfer. Pretty smooth if I must say so myself, using Gil to get Hank transferred, too bad that was the only part of your plan that worked out. Hank, being upset over Holly's death wanted to make Warrick pay for his actions. You wanted to get rid of Warrick, seeing as he was in the way of your delusions of a happily-ever-after with Gil. Unfortunately for you, you let your anger get away from you. Had you not threatened Warrick the day of the shooting, he would have never fingered you. Had Hank been a better shot, Warrick wouldn't have lived to say anything. Had you simply realized that Gil doesn't want you, never has and never will, you might have avoided this entire situation. Did I miss anything?"
"Yeah, evidence," I reply, hating how accurate his conclusions are.
"Oh, you mean besides Hank singing like Mariah Carey? Well, we have photos, taken by you. We have fingerprints left in Hanks home, all yours."
Smirking, I reply "Seeing as how you can't determine who took a picture, that is inconclusive. My fingerprints being at Hank's place means nothing, we've been dating for six months. I had no idea he was Holly's brother. So short of all that, you will indeed have to do a lot better."
Catherine, who had been watching the whole time, moved from her post against the interrogation room wall. Removing a photo from the file folder in her hand, she shoves it across the table to me. "What's this?" I ask as I look at the photo in my hand.
"Glad you asked," replies Catherine as she sits down across from me. "This, you ask, is a photo taken by you of Warrick at a restaurant with Gil. See here in the background? That's Hank, your boyfriend. Notice anything else?"
Looking closer, I see nothing. "No."
"Let me show you, but first let me give you a lesson in photography. When you take a picture, using flash, everything in the picture is revealed. Especially when the photo is take in front of a rolled up window. Was it a chilly night? Doesn't matter, what does matter is this," she says gesturing to the photo. "As I said before, flash reveals everything; even what you think may be hidden. When you took this picture, you captured yourself too. To the naked eye it might not be able to be seen, but thanks to our wonderful crime lab and its incredible team of lab techs, we can see that which was not possible to see before. We see you, well, your reflection, in the window. The high fluorescence of the flash made the window act as a mirror, reflecting your image back to you. So had you not thought to spy on Warrick and Gil, you might have never been caught. As you said before, the evidence we had was nothing but pure speculation. However, with this photo, I think that will be enough to convict."
As I sit there reeling from the shock, Jim comes around to my chair. Pulling me to my feet, I hear the sounds of the handcuffs as they click around my wrists. "Sara Sidle, you have the right to remain silent. If you give up that right, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney and to have an attorney present during questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided to you at no cost. During any questioning, you may decide at any time to exercise these rights, not answer any questions, or make any statements."
As he walks me out of the interrogation room, and down the halls of the lab, I see the looks of shock on the various faces appearing in the hall. Then I see him, and I know everything will be all right.
Gil's POV
As I race to the lab, all I can hear is Nick's voice over and over in my head. `Warrick was right, it is Sara. You need to get to the lab ASAP.' The next thing I know, I'm running out of the hospital, jumping in my Denali, speeding to the lab.
I don't know how I got here without causing any wrecks; my mind was not even focused on driving. All I could think of is that I had failed Warrick. He needed me to believe him, and I didn't. Why, I'm still not sure, but all I know, as I race up the steps, is that when he wakes up, I will make it up to him.
As I enter the lab, Sara is coming down the hall, handcuffed. Although Nick had told me she did it, it's still a shock. As they near, I see Sara's face break into a smile. Why the hell is she so damn happy?
"Gil, you came. I knew you would. I told Warrick that you loved me, not him. He wouldn't listen, but that's okay, I made sure he wouldn't get in the way."
"Sara, what are you talking about? I don't love you, I'm sorry for not saying so sooner, but I don't."
"Gil, you don't have to keep pretending. Everyone knows you love me. And now that Warrick is out of the picture, we can finally be together. I know he didn't die, but still, he is in a coma. He will not be an issue for us ever again. So, you see, we can be together."
"Sara. Sara! You hired someone to kill Warrick!" She looks at me, as if she has just seen me for the first time. "I don't know if I gave you mixed signals or what. But hear me now, I DON'T love you. I never have and I never will. I thought it was fairly common knowledge, but I love Warrick." Hearing a few gasps of shock, I'm sure not as many people knew as I thought, but I don't care. "We can never be together, NEVER!"
Jim drags her away, as she screams behind me, "Gil, please Gil, don't do this! I know you love me, you just need time. We have time! Gil! Gil! I love you!"
I cringe as I hear her voice fade away. "Everyone get back to work, NOW!" I hear Catherine bark to the crowd that has gathered for our little display. Making my way to my office I collapse into my chair. Sighing, I remove my glasses, rubbing the bridge of my nose. Hearing a faint knock on my door, I answer, "Go away."
Hearing the door open, I look up; Nick is standing in my doorway. "Nick, I don't feel like discussing it right now. I know Warrick was right, and I know I should have listened to him. I just don't have the energy to deal with your guilt trip and mine at the same time."
"Warrick's awake," Nick says before closing the door and walking away.
TBC
