Work Text:
"You aren't trying to sneak out on us are you?" asked Sara as she and Greg approached Nick, who was cleaning out his locker at the crime lab.
"Wouldn't think of it," Nick replied. "You know I respect and love both of you, don't you?" Sara and Greg both nodded in agreement.
"I took the job in San Diego because I need some time to think. I want to be with you both, and want Lia to be a part of our lives, but I want space from everyone while I think it through."
"I get it, Nick. You'll still be making a difference, and a lot more pay at that. Saving up for N. J. and Anna to go to college wouldn't be too bad of an idea. Lia knows we all love her, too. She wants to see us all happy, she said so herself before she left to go back to Kentucky. If going to San Diego is what it takes to get your head on straight, I don't have to like it, but I'll live with it,Nicky. You'll only be two hours away from mom, so we can make more excuses to see you when taking the twins to grandma's house in San Gabriel."
"I'll welcome your visits with open arms. I'll skype you and the kids once a week. If you both decide to move to San Diego, then I'll welcome you to the team if I can."
"Nicky, I wish you weren't leaving. Especially so soon after we had the twins, and after I joined the two of you in this relationship. I'm scared this will be like when Grissom left." Sara had tears in her eyes as she spoke. "I don't want to be afraid of losing you or Greg or Lia, but I've been burned before."
"Sara, I can absolutely guarantee that this will not be like the way Gil left you. I will be back, or I will get you both to San Diego, or even take up Lia's offer and move all of us to the midwest. I really just need some space, that's all, darlin'."
"You still buying the first drink tonight right, Nicky?"
"Yeah, first round's on me."
"I think, with all the money you'll be making, all the rounds should be on you," Greg said with a smile.
"Fair enough," sighed Nick. "I'll see you guys back home first?"
"We'll be there when you're ready to come home, Nick. This time and every time," said Sara, then she and Greg left Nick to finish packing up his work life in Las Vegas.
