Author's Note: First, let me just start off by saying I absolutely LOVE Chicago Fire. I'm a huge Dawsey fan who discovered Fanfiction a few years ago and I've been hooked ever since. There are some amazingly talented writers on here, and even though Dawsey's on-screen relationship has come to an end, which was absolutely devastating for me, it's great to know that fans have an outlet to share their work, which will allow Dawsey's story to continue in some way or another.

I started writing this story two years ago. I'd always intended to get back to it but that same year I started my post-grad and things got pretty crazy. Long story short, life got in the way. Anyway, I've had these ideas floating around in my head lately and I decided to pick up where I left off. I'm not quite sure where I want this story to go or how long it will be…I'll just go with the flow I suppose.

Perfect Life: Chapter One - My Little Family

Gabriela Dawson had the perfect life. A stable career as the PIC on Ambo 61 at Firehouse 51 working alongside her Lieutenant fiancé Matthew Casey; an adorable son Louie whom they'd adopted; wonderful friends and two loving families, her blood family and her firehouse family who loved her dearly.

From the outside looking in, her life seemed perfect, however, Gabby's journey to happiness did not come without its hardships. From finding the strength to leave an abusive relationship to the death of her best friend Shay, Gabby had dealt with her fair share of pain and heartache. And just as everything was finally falling into place again, her troubling past would soon catch up to her, rearing its ugly head and threatening to derail her joy and happiness.

It was an ordinary evening, Gabby had taken Louie out for dinner. Matt had a construction job across town and made plans to catch up with some old friends for drinks afterwards so he wasn't able to join them. It was nice out, so Gabby opted to walk instead of take the car.

In addition to its close proximity to the firehouse, Gabby and Matt picked this neighbourhood particularly because it was safe and had many great shops and restaurants within walking distance to their apartment.

Dinner with Louie was pretty relaxing. Gabby loved being able to spend time with her son. Louie was on his best behaviour and was so proud of himself for finishing his entire meal. "Look Mama, I finish," he boasted with a smile and Mac N' Cheese sauce plastered all over his face and shirt.

"I see that. Good job big boy" Gabby responded, giving her son a smile.

What do you say we get you cleaned up and head home. Mama will run you a bubble bath so you can play a little before bed. OK?

After paying the bill and getting Louie cleaned up, the two made their way home through the quiet neighbourhood.

Once home, Gabby ran Louie a bubble bath and decided to give Matt a quick call on FaceTime.

Louie splashed around in the tub as Gabby spoke to Matt. "Vroom, vroom, vroooooom," was all Matt heard when the call connected.

"Someone's having fun," said Matt.

"Yeah, I just put him in the tub." Gabby looked over at Louie who was playing with his cars. "We just got in from dinner not too long ago. Louie finished his entire plate of food!"

*Gasp* "Did you?" said Matt as Gabby turned the phone towards Louie so he could see his father.

"I did!" said Louie, looking up from his cars.

"You're getting to be such big boy aren't you?"

"Yeah, I eat so I big and strong just like Daddy," he smiled.

Louie's remarks made Gabby's heart flutter. She just loved her little family.

"How are you doing, baby? asked Matt.

"I'm doing good," said Gabby, exhaustion evident in her voice.

"As for baby," she placed a hand on her stomach, rubbing her small 11-week bump. "Baby is also doing well. We have our 12-week checkup next week."

"I know. I can't wait to see my son."

"Babe, how do you know it's a boy? They haven't even told us the sex yet."

"I just have a feeling," Matt said in response with a smile.

"Whatever you say, Matthew Casey." Gabby smiled and she continued to rub her small bump.

"I'll miss you three tonight," he stated with a slight frown. Since Matt was across town and knew he'd be out later than usual, he decided to book a hotel room for the night to avoid driving home too late.

"I know, but we'll be ok. You haven't seen your old friends in a while. It'll be good for you to hang out and catch up with each other. We'll be fine, promise."

"I know. It's just hard to be away from my family," he admitted.

"We'll see you in the morning, babe. Go have fun."

"See you in the morning, Daddy," Louie chimed in.

Matt let out a chuckle. "I'll see you in the morning buddy. Love you"

"We love you too," said Gabby.

With that, Matt proceeded to get ready for his night out, taking a quick shower before getting dressed.

After Louie's bath, Gabby got him changed into some fresh pajamas. "Ok, big boy. All set for bed?"

"I brush my teeth first, Mama," he said.

"Do you want Mama to help you?"

"No, I do it," said Louie as he scurried into the bathroom.

It seemed like Louie was gaining more and more independence each day. Gabby and Matt couldn't believe how quickly he was growing up before their eyes.

After successfully getting Louie down for the night, Gabby started getting ready for bed also. She washed her face, changed into one of Matt's old T-shirts and put her hair into a messy bun. She checked to make sure everything was locked before heading into her bedroom. At ten O'clock, it was a relatively early night for her, but since Matt was spending the night out she decided to head to bed early to get some extra sleep.

The apartment was peaceful. Louie had started to sleep in his bed like a big boy, which Gabby and Matt were thrilled about.

Gabby was in deep sleep when suddenly there was a hand over her mouth. She tried to fight but the moment she started to kick and move around she felt another set of hands on her. These ones were holding down her arms and legs.

That's it for Chapter One. Stay tuned for more and feel free to leave a review.