Day 25: It's just a flesh wound.
.
Prompt by guardianrock and trace619: "How about one where Alex is the detective/cop and Olivia is the ADA."
.
Year: 2013
.
Pulling her long hair up into a ponytail, Detective Alex Cabot barely manages to suppress a groan. She reaches down, presses her hand to her side, and takes even, measured breaths – a technique she learned helps manage the pain.
She is so focused on her breathing that she does not hear the click clack of heels that signals the arrival of Assistant District Attorney Olivia Benson.
After making herself a cup of coffee, Olivia perches on the edge of Alex's desk, her legs crossed at the knee. She watches Alex with unhidden worry.
When Alex feels the pain is manageable, she sighs and opens her eyes. Looking up, her eyes meet Olivia's and she smiles. "You're early, Counselor."
Olivia smiles back and shrugs. "I wanted to see you before anyone else got in."
"How'd you know I'd be in today?"
"Gut feeling." Olivia smirks.
Alex laughs. "That's my line."
"Yesterday was a mandatory day off. I knew you'd be back today."
"There's no way I was gonna stay home again."
"Why not?"
Alex sighs exaggeratedly. "Daytime tv is the worst."
Olivia laughs and it's suddenly the most beautiful thing Alex has ever heard.
A comfortable silence surrounds the two.
It is Olivia who breaks it. "How are you feeling, Alex? Honestly."
Alex shrugs. "A little sore, but the pain's manageable."
Olivia looks at her doubtfully. "Really?"
"Really."
"You're not just saying that so that I won't cancel our dinner plans?"
"Scout's honor, Liv."
Olivia nods. "Okay," she says, standing up. "I'll see you tonight for our standing dinner reservations."
Alex smiles. "It's a date, Counselor."
.