Sequel to 'What if you stayed?'. Set a year after the original story. Enjoy!

The big day was finally upon them. After months and months of searching, Nick and Olivia had finally found their home. A quaint three bed room on the outskirts of Manhattan. The hunt was stressful but worth it. The couple had been living together in Olivia's apartment for almost a year. They'd decided that it was finally time to find a home, that suited their blended family. The couple was busy putting the finishing touches on their place for the house warming that night. Olivia had surprised Nick many times over the past year. One of the most unexpected revelations, was how girlie she got about certain things. Decorating and hosting was a necessary evil to Nick, whereas, Olivia was dedicated to making sure that everything was just perfect for their guests. He kept his complaining down to a minimum, letting his lady enjoy their, her, big night.

"Just a few more things and we can start getting ready for the guests' arrivals," said Olivia. She was dressed in form-fitting ripped jeans, a red and black three quarter length plaid button down with a black camisole underneath.

"Yeah then we can finally start having some fun," chimed in Nick as he wrapped his arms around Olivia from behind. Blue jeans, a grey NYPD shirt, his signature backwards blue cap and Nikes completed his casual ensemble. He placed light kisses on her neck as she turned around to face him.

"Not too much, we have to make sure the guests are taken care of and entertained." She found his lips and pecked them before returning to work.

"You keep saying guests, they're cops, woman. Cheap beer and pretzels would take care of them."

"Nick this is a house warming not a night out after a case at Mulligan's, alright. We are welcoming them into our home, giving them a glimpse into our lives."

He pulled her back into him. Chest to chest before, kissing her passionately. Their lips melded together perfectly. It didn't matter how many times he'd kissed her, that same effect was there every single time. "And I love our life together, baby."

"So do I. That's why I'm so excited to share it with our friends."

"Yeah, about that…are we sure about some of our 'friends' on the invite list?" A year ago, the possibility of certain people being invited wouldn't even cross Olivia's mind. However, a lot had occurred over the past year and the hatchet had been buried for a while.

"Yes I am. Time heals all wounds. Amanda and I are good now. Very professional, even friendly…" Nick made a face. "Ish, friendly-ish. You and Elliot are…uhm, civil. It's going to be fine. Trust me," she planted one last lingering kiss on his lips. "Now, let's finish up."

"I'm just in the way and slowing you down, gorgeous. Plus, I think there's a glass of bourbon needing my immediate attention."

"Nick…"

"Bourbon," he ran toward the kitchen but stopped. He turned back to give her backside a surprising swat.

"Ooh."

"Love you, hermosa."

Olivia shook her head while smiling as Nick went back to the kitchen. Sometimes she still couldn't believe how amazing life was. Noah was the greatest thing to ever happen to her. Then a man that she absolutely adored, was the added piece that made their family complete. Work was still one of her biggest passions and she had adjusted beautifully to being a lieutenant. She was being fulfilled in every aspect of her life, not only work, like it had been for many years prior. Life was good, plain and simple. She was happy and the thought of the future and what was next thrilled her.

Two hours later, Nick and Olivia's house was filled with co-workers and friends. Liv had given tours of their three-bedroom house several times and she couldn't be happier. Seeing everyone mingling and seemingly enjoying themselves satisfied her. Nick had left the entertaining to his lady while he just enjoyed being with his friends. He had invited some of his co-workers from the 2-7. He and Detective Lupo had really developed a bromance over the last year. They were laughing at a dumb joke when, Nick's attention was diverted. He noticed that Elliot had made his arrival at the gathering. The past year helped to ease some of the tension between the two but it would be a lie if Nick said they were 'friends.' Lupo also noticing, couldn't resist teasing his friend.

"I see that your boyfriend has finally arrived."

"Shut up," said Nick as he watched Olivia and Elliot embrace. He trusted her completely. However, a part of him still didn't like the bond that the former partners shared. The reason being jealousy mixed with insecurities. The truth was that, Elliot and Olivia shared something that he would never fully understand. And that was unsettling. Pushing those thoughts aside, Nick made his way over to speak. Marking his territory, while doing so. When he approached the former partners, he snaked his arm around Liv's waist, startling her. After the unsubtle power move, Nick finally addressed the other man. "Stabler, glad that you could make it," said the detective while extending his hand.

The possessive stunt didn't go unnoticed by the number one, alpha dog. "Wouldn't miss it," replied Elliot sporting his signature, squinted-smirk, while shaking Amaro's outstretched hand. He then turned his attention back to Olivia, "For you." He gave her a bottle of red wine. "And for me," it was a bottle of his favorite tequila.

"Thank you. Are you ready for your tour of the place?"

"Uhm, I'm going to need two of these first," said the former Marine, while gesturing to the bottle of tequila.

"Right…come on, let's get you a glass." Olivia then turned to Nick, "I'll take care of him, go and entertain someone besides Lupo, please. I'm going to show El around, after I get him a drink." She kissed him on the cheek before heading off with her old partner, arm in arm.

Nick rolled his eyes as he watched them walk away. "Yeah ok, I'll hold down the fort." His words were laced in sarcasm and annoyance. The two friends headed off to the kitchen. Nick swallowed his pride and disdain for the other guy to oblige his lover.

"So how does it feel being a homeowner?" asked Elliot as he uncorked the wine.

"It's surreal but good. I never thought that I would enjoy being domesticated so much," laughed Olivia.

"That's great Liv, I'm happy for you…" his words were pure and sincere. It had taken a while for them to reach this point of their relationship but they had. Timing, time was never their friend but it had been good to them over the last year. They embraced their new normal and tried to keep moving forward.

"Thanks, El."

"So…wedding bells?"

Olivia was mid sip and almost choked, "Uhm…I don't know about all of that. It's a little soon for that, right?"

"You asking me?"

"Yes. No. Yes?"

Elliot laughed as he sipped from his glass. "That's more of a question for Amaro…" Trying not to make it awkward, he switched gears. "So where's the little guy tonight?"

"Nick's mom has him."

"He is still coming with me and Eli next weekend right?"

"Yep, that's all he's been talking about," smiled Olivia.

"Good, Eli's excited too. Ok I've got my drink, show me around but make it quick."

Liv rolled her eyes, "Ugh, you men are all alike. Follow me."

Elliot chuckled before he was led away from the kitchen. The 'wedding bells' question, had taken Olivia by complete surprise. Marriage wasn't anywhere on her radar. Yes, she loved Nick and the life that they shared together. It was easy with him but the pessimistic side of her always waited on the other shoe to drop. One thing that she knew for sure was that, Elliot maybe had a point about maybe discussing the future with Nick, sometime soon. After the brief tour, the former partners rejoined the party. When they entered the spacious living room, Amanda was walking through the door. Olivia headed that way with Elliot in tow to greet her.

"Amanda hi, I'm glad that you could make it."

"Yeah me too, thanks for the invite. Here this is for you," she handed Olivia a bottle.

"Thanks. Oh…I'm sorry, El." Liv then proceeded to introduce them. "Elliot Stabler this is Amanda Roll—"

"Rollins," finished the retired detective. "Yeah, we've met before," he said to the confused brunette. "Amanda."

"Elliot."

Olivia was confused as hell and it was written all over her face. "Oh, uh…I didn't know that you knew each other. Right, yeah. Amanda, let me get you something to drink."

"I've got it Liv," Stabler took the bottle from her hand. "Go and entertain, I will catch up with you later. Amanda?"

"Lead the way…"

The unexpected friends headed toward the kitchen while Olivia stood there in confusion. How the hell do they know each other? And why didn't Elliot tell me? The lieutenant had many questions, that she'd be asking Stabler later. Just when she was getting completely consumed in her thoughts, an applause broke out in the house. She turned to see where the commotion was coming from. People had their glasses raised and Nick was beckoning for her to join him for a toast. Pleasantly distracted from her confusion, she joined him.

"First of all, we'd like to thank you all for coming out to celebrate this milestone with us," began Nick. He stopped for the claps and catcalling whistles, that followed the statement. "Olivia and I are very grateful. We've been working hard, to make sure that tonight was a success."

Nick felt a sharp elbow pierce his side. Followed by a faux coughing gesture, "Ahem…" Olivia shot him a 'really?' look.

"Fine. Liv has been working hard to make sure that tonight was a success." The group of people erupted into laughter. "Alright, alright…seriously. I'm extremely grateful to be able to welcome you all in our home tonight." He took Olivia's hand, looked her in the eye, as he continued. "Couldn't ask for a better roommate."

That declaration filled the brunette with such love and pride. "I feel the exact same way," said Olivia. Nick knew that Liv wasn't big on PDA but he didn't care. The need to claim his lover's lips was so strong. He was completely unbothered by the gawking crowd. He cradled her face and pressed their lips together.

"Get a room!" shouted Fin. Everyone laughed and applauded the couple.

The couple blushed as their impromptu kiss ended. After the toasts and speeches people started to file out. The evening had gone off without a hitch and Olivia couldn't have been happier. For years she'd celebrated others and their life's accomplishments and now it was her turn. She was floating on cloud nine. Stopping her mid float was, the sight of Elliot and Amanda. Laughing, talking, seemingly in their own world. Nick noticed the perplexed look.

"Hey, you alright?"

Olivia was startled out of her staring. "Y-yeah…yeah I am."

"No, what is it?"

The brunette sighed. Knowing that he wasn't going to let it go. "It's nothing. I just didn't know that El and Rollins knew each other." She tilted her head towards the duo, "They seem to know each other very well…apparently."

"Hmm, seems they do." Nick wasn't concerned or interested, at all. "Come on, let's say goodnight to everyone."

Olivia complied, with one last look at Elliot and Amanda. Interesting. Despite that small, surprise, the night went perfectly. Nick managed to somehow keep his buddies in line. While Olivia was able to be her charming self. When their home was finally empty, the place was a mess. A mess that would have to wait until tomorrow. They were child free, and in a celebratory mood.

"Finally, I have you all to myself."

Nick took Olivia's hand and led them upstairs. Once in the narrow hallway, he suddenly pushed her against the wall. The swift move caught her off guard but she wasn't complaining. That hungry look that drove her absolutely crazy, was present in his dark eyes. To be desired was exciting in itself but to be desired by this beautiful, specimen of a man was incredible. His mouth crashed against hers, in a split second. A moan escaped Olivia's mouth as she welcomed the devouring kiss. Seeking hands roamed, searching for skin as their tongues cascaded in sync. They broke the kiss when their lungs burned for air.

The separation didn't last long as Nick made his way down her neck. He nipped and sucked, finding every sensitive area as he made his way lower. The curve clinging, black, low-cut dress, accentuated her full cleavage. He'd been staring throughout the entire evening and now he could properly appreciate her body of work. He removed her dress' straps, causing the top part to fall down to her mid-section. Revealing a midnight blue, laced bra. When she unfastened the front clasps of her bra, his tongue swept across his bottom lip hungrily. He latched on to an erect nipple with haste, while massaging the other breast.

"Nick…" Her body was on fire and each lick, sent heat and moisture straight to her core. Her legs were becoming dangerously unstable. It was if he'd heard her inner monologue and stopped, on cue. Before she could complain about the lack of contact, Nick had her over his shoulder. Carrying her into their bedroom.

"Nick! Nick!" shouted Olivia, in protest while laughing uncontrollably. "Put me down!" When he reached their destination, he obliged. Not before planting a firm slap on the ass. She yelped, as that gesture reignited her all over again. Nick stood at the foot of the bed and slowly undressed while burning brown eyes watched his every move. In all of his naked glory, he inched his way over to Olivia. He made quick work of her remaining garments before kissing her. It was a more sensual kiss but it didn't lack the heat. His right hand caressed over the naked body beneath him before finding his intended destination. Her core clenched in response as he found that sensitive bundle of nerves. His index and middle finger ran up and down her drenched folds. He teased and tested her readiness, as he continued to stroke and rub her throbbing sex. Both sighed in pleasure when his fingers finally entered her.

"Mmmm, you feel so good," his erection twitched in response to what his fingers were feeling. Nick's ministrations were driving Olivia crazy. She grabbed the back of his neck and claimed his lips. His fingers were gliding in and out, while their tongues dueled feverishly. Unable to control himself any longer, Nick removed his fingers and huffed, "I need you. Now."

"You have me. I'm yours…"

They were so deeply connected. She knew exactly what he needed to hear. And he loved how well she knew him. His hands started kneading soft skin, as his body pushed up flush, against hers. Olivia wrapped her legs around him as he aligned their bodies. He glided his impressive length into her and stilled, "Ahhhh." The feeling would never get old. They fit together so perfectly. He resumed his oral assault on her breasts and upper body, as she gripped his hair. Just when she was growing impatient he started to move. A few, deep strokes to give her time to adjust. Now completely in the swing of things, he found a rhythm, filling her completely. A light sheen covered his muscular physic as they met each other thrust for thrust.

"Ohhhh, don't stop," she panted while he pumped into her, mercilessly. Her legs tightened around his strong waist, causing him to hit a particular sensitive spot. She cried out and clenched down, involuntarily.

"Aw shit," that nearly finished him off. He withdrew suddenly, leaving her wanting. He didn't waste any time as his head settled between her legs. His expert tongue massaged her sensitive flesh. A muffled shriek escaped her mouth when his tongue entered her. Encouraged by the moans, he licked his way back up. The wild writhing, let him that she was close. He sat up, quickly and flipped Olivia on her belly. She loved when he got aggressive and took control. Nick slid his hands up her back, slowly. Then suddenly gripped her hips, raising them to meet him. Both groaning loudly as they reconnected. He pulled her off completely and slammed her back onto him, repeatedly. Now it was a race to the finish line.

"I'm so close…"

That spurred him on as he plunged deeper. The strokes sped up as their bodies smacked hard against the other. Grunts and the sound of slapping flesh were the only sounds to be heard. Both were on the verge of release.

"Liv…"

"Nick…"

"I can't."

"I'm right behind you…" With one last stroke, Nick spilled his hot seed deep inside Olivia. While his thumb and index finger worked on her clit. That sent her over the edge as he continued to thrust, riding out their climaxes. They collapsed on the bed, spent. They were panting and trying to catch their breaths.

"That was…"

"Yes."

"I mean…"

"Right?" They both laughed at her response. Finally, able to move, he rolled over to the side. He wrapped his arm around the damp body beside him. She placed her hand over his as they continued to calm down. They laid in comfortable silence, reflecting.

"Liv?"

"Yeah?"

"You're it for me." Butterflies filled her stomach as she waited for what he was going to say next. "And I want more. So much more…"

Thanks for reading. Reviews, welcome.