TITLE: Law & Order: SVU – The Fill In

AUTHOR: D M Harper.

SUMMARY: Sometimes letting go only takes one step in the right direction.

PAIRING: Olivia Benson & Original Female Character. Casey Novak & Serena Southerlyn.

RATING: M for mature content.

DISCLAIMER: This story is the work of an over imaginative mind and the basic wish of many gay women who watch and enjoy certain television shows, to see a little v-vroom between two female characters. I like to dabble with the subtext and do so for fun and not for profit. There is no intent to infringe on the copyright of Wolf Studio or USA Television. This entertainment does feature consensual sexual interaction between two females, so if you are underage or unable to view due to restrictions in your part of the world, be gone with you and take my sympathy with you. If you find such material offensive, too bad, so sad, you chose to enter this web site of your own free will, hence you have no one to whine to expect yourself – now bugger off!

A/N: Thanks for the reviews, follows and favourites. It makes the Muse lay off the Lava Flows and work!

Chapter 35

Nicole went over her statement studiously, and once she was satisfied with its contents, she signed the relevant pages. Handing the document to a smiling Lieutenant Ed Tucker, she said, "There you go."

"Much appreciated Captain. As previously stated, your paperwork is only a mere formality in closing out the case. With the digital footage it was easy to determine it was a justified shooting on Officer Downing's behalf. Our initial investigation concluded there had been an obvious breach of protocol by Detective Andy Driscol."

Nicole nonchalantly enquired, "Is the case against Driscol still on-going?"

"No ma'am, it was wrapped up last week. He was found responsible for not following simple procedure, which in turn, led to the serious wounding of a superior officer. Driscol accepted full blame for the incident and offered no excuse or reason."

"What was the Bureau's recommendation?"

"He was suspended without pay for the duration of six weeks and bounced back to patrol duties. Furthermore, he is prohibited from applying for the position of Detective for five years. The Commissioner was fairly angry with Driscol's performance and was ready to sack him until he pleaded guilty at the first opportunity."

"Good," uttered Nicole with a hint of gratification.

Smirking, Tucker offered, "Your Lieutenant Reilly provided us with a scathing statement detailing Driscol's reluctance to follow your instructions on a number of occasions and his apparent lack of discipline when out in the field. Surprisingly, Driscol was very apologetic during interview as was sporting a black eye that he didn't recall receiving. He eventually stated he must have fallen over when intoxicated the day before." With a wink, Tucker concluded the conversation, "We appreciate you attending our office Captain Bracken and wish you a speedy recovery."

"Thank you Lieutenant Tucker, Sergeant Andrews." Standing, Nicole shook both detectives' hands then made her way to the Major Case Squadroom.

-o-

After speaking with Danny, Alex and Robert, Nicole spent fifteen minutes in her office typing up her report then sought out Gene in the locker room. The other detectives were either currently in the field or finished for the day.

Gene turned when she approached and greeted her with a loose embrace, "This is an unexpected surprise."

Stepping back, Nicole grinned, "Mom dropped me off so I could supply a statement to IAB."

"It's good that's out of the way for you and you are out of hospital. How are you doing?"

"I'm a little sore from sitting in the same position, but otherwise, not too bad."

"Are you looking for a ride home?"

"I am and how is the Squad?"

Closing his locker door, Gene replied, "Everyone is busy with stop and frisk details. Word is out regards Ferrier and Bartaz going out of business and Davis has been fingered as the snitch."

"Good work and I gather I have you to thank for Driscol's attitude adjustment."

As the two friends neared the elevators, Reilly shook his head, "No, someone else beat me to it."

Blonde eyebrows quirked with question, "Any idea who it was?"

"Let's just say he received a visit from the Commissioner the day after your hospitalisation."

Smiling, Nicole replied, "Once an officer, always an officer."

Nodding, Gene concurred, "Yeah. Commissioner Gardner appeared mighty upset when he arrived here, but was more relaxed when he left. Driscol on the other hand, promptly informed me of his new assignment, packed up his desk then departed."

Nicole's forehead furrowed, "Lieutenant Tucker mentioned Driscol was remorseful during interview."

"He genuinely was, even before the Commish turned up. After you were wheeled out of the here, I had to order the other detectives to lay off Driscol out of respect for you."

"I appreciate that Gene," began Nicole tearfully. "And as a reward, I'd like you to have dinner with the family."

"I readily accept and volunteer for any baby holding duties that may arise."

Tittering at the man's enthusiasm, Nicole exited the building, "You'll have to jostle my parents for that honour."

"Not a problem and how is the little guy doing?"

"Zachary isn't as congested as he was this morning."

"That's real pleasing news Nic and any time you need a babysitter, don't forget about me."

"I won't."

"By the way, just to bring you up to speed, Beck is on vacation at his parents' in Idaho."

"Great, he needed a break after a long assignment."

"He has been calling every day for an update on you."

"Well, I'm happy to report I'm on the way to a full recovery."

"I'll pass that on," suggested Gene as he opened the passenger door on his squad car.

-o-

Olivia fretfully reached for Nicole's left hand as Doctor Franks examined her perineum. "Can you feel me touching you?" the physician asked.

"No," replied the tense detective.

"Okay. The wound had healed Olivia; I'll just remove the external sutures."

"What if I don't feel that either?" enquired Olivia tearfully.

"Then we will discuss the options at your next visit," answered Selena as a nurse passed her the necessary equipment. "Before we get ahead of ourselves, you need to understand numbness is not uncommon at this stage and you still have to wait for the internal stitches to dissolve."

Nicole's fingers were aching from the pressure her wife was applying, so she leaned over and kissed her lips. The squeeze lessened and Olivia lost all train of thought.

"I'll just apply some antibacterial salve," recommended Selena. "Then you are all done for today."

Breaking from the kiss, Olivia grinned at Nicole, "Nice distraction method baby."

"It's worked in the past honey." Nicole looked to the doctor and asked, "Is there anything I can do to help?"

"I'll write you a prescription for a scar reduction cream that you can apply three times a day. It should also aid with the swelling as the internal scar heals."

"I can do that."

Standing, Selena approached Olivia face to face, "I want you to practice the relaxation exercises we discussed earlier and don't discourage Nicole from touching you."

"I understand and thank you."

"We'll leave you to dress and see you next month."

-o-

As she did the night before, Olivia didn't engage in conversation with Nicole. The trip home was silent and Nicole put an end to the distancing once her wife fed the twins and put them to bed in the nursery.

Megan had gone home that morning, but not before taking Nicole aside and encouraging her to assist Olivia out of her obvious depression.

With her mother's words echoing in her head, Nicole waited for Olivia to enter the ensuite before closing the window blinds then lighting scented candles placed around the room. She stripped off her clothes then donned a tee shirt and pair of New York Jets boxers. Lastly, she inserted an Etta James CD into the stereo and pressed play.

An NYPD tee shirt clad Olivia stepped into the softly lit room and smiled, "I see you were paying attention to Doctor Franks."

"Of course I was. I said I'd help in any way I can, so lay down and let me get to work."

Realising she'd been caught up in her own thoughts since waking that morning, Olivia apologised, "I'm sorry for being quiet."

"That's okay honey; I fully understand you are overwhelmed and disappointed with your progress."

Holding back negative words as well as tears, Olivia discarded her top and eased onto the mattress. "You stop if you feel the slighted pain," she warned while settling on her stomach.

"I will," promised Nicole while picking up a bottle of massage oil. She straddled Olivia's hips sluggishly, "And the same goes for you honey. This is not about sex; it's all about letting go and finding your inner peace."

A gentle giggle escaped from the brunette, "Jesus, you watched too many lifestyle programs while in hospital."

"Only because they put me to sleep," retorted Nicole as her fingertips manipulated tight shoulder muscles.

"Oh crap, that feels so good," mumbled Olivia into the pillow.

"That's the idea, just enjoy."

"I am baby and I want to thank you for being there with me at the clinic."

"It was my pleasure honey and Selena didn't appear to be too concerned. It sounded like you just have to be patient and allow yourself to heal completely."

"You are right, and damn, I'd forgotten how brilliant you are at massages."

Beaming at her spouse's response, Nicole quipped, "I have a special technique."

"You do?"

Leaning over gingerly, Nicole planted a chaste kiss on Olivia's neck, "I add love."

"Why yes you do," agreed a somewhat mellow brunette. "And I appreciate you."

"Good," remarked Nicole as she moved her fingertips to Olivia's spine. "I wholeheartedly appreciate you and how you've been so strong these past two weeks. I was so mad at Driscol for not following my orders all the time and the final straw was when he failed to search Ferrier before placing him into the Interrogation Room."

Olivia's body went rigid, "Say what?"

With soothing strokes, Nicole replied, "Ferrier had a knife secreted in the inside sleeve of his jacket. Prior to arrest, Driscol was directed to thoroughly examine the detainee before transporting him back to the Precinct."

"Gene didn't go into specifics when explaining your injury at the hospital, so I was unaware of all the details. Is Driscol the detective you were having trouble with weeks ago?"

"The one and the same; I was about to write him up for insubordination then the op took precedence. Gene had already had a word with him and was keeping an eye on him. He also furbished a negative report to IAB."

"I gather IAB tore him a new one."

"They did and apparently the Commissioner gave him a black eye."

Chuckling, Olivia suggested, "I'll have to thank him at the next family gathering."

"Sounds good to me and Gene dropped me off to Brad's office before bringing me home yesterday. The Commish sends you his best."

"That was nice of him and has IAB wrapped up the investigation?"

"Yes. Driscol is back on patrol for a minimum of five years and suspended with no pay for six weeks. Brad wanted him gone, but knew I wouldn't have wanted that."

"He knows you well."

Scooting back, Nicole gradually positioned herself over Olivia's calves and proceeded to knead her taut gluteus maximus.

Olivia let out a soft sigh, "I'm so tranquil."

"Good honey," commented a fast tiring Nicole. Wordlessly, she worked her way down to Olivia's feet then asked her to roll over.

Complying, Olivia smiled up at her wife, "You're doing a marvellous job."

Staring at the graceful body on display, Nicole felt more than a stirring in her nether region. She didn't need to inspect her boxers to know they were soaked in the crotch area. It had taken all she had to not moan while massaging her spouse's luscious body. Even with the extra weight gained during pregnancy, Olivia was still the most alluring creature Nicole had ever seen.

Olivia noted the glazed blue eyes and quietly suggested, "We can stop if you want."

"I'm good to continue if you are? Besides, I only plan on applying the ointment then I'm done. I don't think it would be advisable to go anywhere near your amazing breasts."

With a heart wrench, Olivia understood, "I'm so sorry I don't want you touching them."

"Hey now, this is about you feeling relaxed and not about my libido. I'll just go wash my hands and grab the salve."

"Okay baby," replied a suddenly overwrought Olivia. She knew her insecurities were hurting her wife, but was at a loss as to how to overcome her fears.

With tube in hand, Nicole returned within seconds and Olivia raised her knees while avoiding exposing herself fully. The action did not go unnoticed by Nicole, so she sat on the edge of the bed and began to tell Olivia about her session with Emil.

The conversation continued after Olivia redressed then lay down beside an exhausted Nicole. She nestled into her chest and listened. "I guess now is a good time to talk about your stabbing," she finally said. "I know I have been guilty of avoiding it."

"I'm just as culpable Liv. I had no right to dismiss your fears while I was in hospital. I should have allowed you to speak and I apologise for that."

"Thank you Nic and it's so wonderful to have everything out in the open. My world came crashing down around me when I heard Doctor Travers then when I woke, I felt so alone until El and Kathy told me the whole truth."

"You were so brave honey. I want you to know that had I died, I would have lived a full life and left with only one regret."

Locking onto tear washed blue orbs, Olivia cried, "Never having met your children."

"Yes and maybe one other thing."

Before Olivia could enquire further, Nicole rolled off the bed and entered the walk-in robe. She came back holding a gift wrapped box, "I had planned on presenting you with this in a few days' time, but fate had other plans." Climbing in beside Olivia, Nicole handed over the present, "This is just a small appreciation for what you went through for us."

"You shouldn't have, but knowing you, I'm sure it's anything but small." Sitting up, Olivia disposed of the colourful paper and revealed a slender blue velvet Tiffany's jewel container, "You really do know how to treat me like a princess."

"You are a goddess, not a princess," quipped a grinning blonde.

Opening the lid, Olivia's breath caught, "Crap Nic. This must have cost a fortune." Exposing a bracelet with small gold amulets shaped into full moon, planets and stars; Olivia sobbed, "Baby, it's amazing and means so much to me."

Reaching out, Nicole flipped over a moon. Reading the engraving, Olivia wept harder, "To Mars and beyond, love will guide us. Nicole May, 2009."

Wiping away her wife's tears, Nicole suggested, "I can have the day added now."

"How the hell did I ever end up with you?"

"I have no freaking idea honey, but I'm sure glad you did."

"That makes two of us and I couldn't love you more." Olivia was about to capture Nicole's lips when her phone sounded with Casey's ringtone. "I better get that, sorry." As she stretched for the cell, Nicole's trilled with Gillian's number.

"Crap bad timing," the blonde cursed while reaching out slowly. "Hey Counsellor," she answered.

"Hello Nic, is Olivia with you?"

"She's right by my side talking with Casey, why?"

"The proverbial shit is about to hit the fan and I didn't want you to be alone when the media get a hold of the story."

A smile flooded across Nicole's face as she pre-empted the ADA's news, "The Feds have made a link between Mount Sinai Hospital and scumbag Granger."

With a chuckle, Gillian replied, "You got it. The United States Attorney's Office is having him arraigned at two this afternoon."

Nicole felt Olivia squeeze her right shoulder, "On what charges?"

"I'll get to that, but while you were in surgery, Officer Morales from TARU tracked down a call made by an orderly at the hospital to Granger. He also traced two further calls between them and all evidence was handed over to the FBI the next day. Assistant United States Attorney Abbie Carmichael took on the case and a subpoena to record conversations between Granger and a Michael Elms was obtained. Subsequently, self-incriminating evidence was attained including surveillance footage of Granger paying off Elms, and bank accounts detailing withdrawals and deposits."

"Shit, that is fantastic news."

"The best piece of evidence is Granger stating Officer Downing did them both a favour by killing Ferrier and not having to worry about him blabbing about their involvement or the two hundred thousand dollar payoff. The Feds also have Elms discussing Wallace being alive and not being handcuffed during treatment in the ER during one of the recorded chitchats. The pair went on and talked about Wallace being the snitch and they were dumb enough to mention Granger slipping Ferrier the paperclip in the Interrogation Room. Both men have been charged with conspiracy to commit the murder of a Law Enforcement Officer, abetting a prisoner's attempted escape and Granger is further charged with corruption. There will probably be more counts added as the investigation continues."

"Will the AUSA require a statement from me?"

"Not at this stage Nic. I forwarded the report you sent me yesterday and Miss Carmichael is satisfied with that. She will more than likely want to speak with you later though."

"That all sounds good to me Counsellor.'

There was a nervous titter on the other end, "Oh me too."

"Whoa, hold the bus. Do I detect an interest in the AUSA?"

"Don't be absurd, bye."

Nicole was still laughing when Olivia finished her call with Casey, "I gather ADA Novak had some interesting news."

"Yes she did and Granger finally went too far for a client."

"He received a lot of money in return and my guess is Ferrier wasn't the only one."

"You are probably right and what caused you to laugh?"

"If I am not mistaken, Gillian has a crush on AUSA Abbie Carmichael."

Olivia's response was rather flippant, "She's only human and we've all been there."

Searching for more information, Nicole asked, "Abbie was the first ADA assigned to SVU, right?"

"She was and yes, she is a lesbian."

The baby monitor sprang into life and Olivia went to the nursery to attend to Zachary's coughing while Nicole was left behind to ponder her wife's words.

-o-

Over the next two weeks, Nicole had three more sessions with Emil and on Monday the twenty fifth of May, he asked her to invite Olivia to the next appointment on Friday.

Apart from a physical relationship, the couple had returned to a supportive and loving marriage, but some questions still remained unanswered.

Nicole had been interviewed by Abbie Carmichael and once all the evidence had been presented to a Federal Grand Jury, Lionel Granger was set down for trial beginning on the third of November.

That all changed when Michael Elms agreed to give testimony on behalf of the prosecution on Thursday the twenty eight of May. He had been shrewd enough to record all his dealings with Granger as insurance, just in case, and was now in a position to better his lot.

Faced with that knowledge, Granger changed his plea to guilty on all charges and was listed for an allocution hearing on June the fifteenth.

Olivia and Nicole celebrated the news with family and friends at a local restaurant.

-o-

Friday 29th May, 2009

After greetings, Emil gestured for Olivia and Nicole to take a seat on the couch. He smiled as they took up position beside one another and held hands. Getting comfortable, he began, "Thank you for joining us today Olivia. Nicole has made remarkable progress with her anger and guilt issues and today is her last session."

Olivia turned to his wife and felt and ambush coming on, "Then I don't understand why I'm here?"

"There is nothing sinister behind the request," explained Emil. "I merely wanted to ascertain how your relationship was fairing."

Relieved by the reply, Olivia relaxed her shoulders, "I think Nicole is her old self again and our marriage is stronger than ever. Our communication is superb and the support mutual."

"That's pleasing to hear. Nicole mentioned she is still physically recovering from her injuries and is limited in some areas."

"That's true. Nic is unable to lift, especially our twins and she has the impression it annoys me."

"Does it?"

"No. I tell her to slow down most days and after she grumbles, she understands. We usually laugh about it afterwards."

"I get the feeling there is a lot of laughter in the household."

"There is," answered Nicole.

"Do you have any questions for me Olivia?"

"Do you mean regards Nicole?"

"Yes."

"No. My wife is continually amazing me each day with the way she cares for me and our children. She surrounds us with her love and I am totally content with the life we share. I am deeply in love with Nicole and am grateful for every ounce of patience she affords me."

"That's a two way street honey," added Nicole.

Emil made a note then announced, "Unless there is something else, I'll be recommending Nicole return to full duty once she is deemed medically fit by a departmental physician."

"Phew, it's good to know I'm not cracked," joked Nicole before pecking Olivia on the nose.

"There was never a doubt," replied Olivia. "And now that is official, you'll have the paperwork to prove it."

A chuckling Emil got to his feet, "I wish you both the best and hope I never have to see you again on a professional level."

Shaking the doctor's hand, Nicole grinned, "Thank you."

-o-

Once Nicole was buckled up in the passenger seat, she burst out laughing.

Turning her head, Olivia enquired, "What's so funny?"

"You are honey. I thought you were going to break my hand when Emil asked his fist question."

Pulling into the line of traffic, Olivia tried to explain herself, "I thought I was there under false pretences."

"I realised that and was so glad Emil caught on swiftly."

"It took a few seconds to figure out I was only there to confirm your improvement."

"I love your intelligence honey."

Tittering, Olivia confessed, "I nearly made a complete dick of myself by protesting."

"I know and I would never put you into an awkward position."

A cheeky smirk floated across Olivia's face and Nicole added, "I am not talking about sexual positions smartass. I like this good mood you are in."

"I'm happy because I didn't have to put my wife into the looney bin."

Nicole placed a hand on Olivia's thigh, "I'm pretty happy about that too."

"While we are in town, do you want to go sign the paperwork at Jackson's office?"

"Good idea and we can pick up some of that chocolate Nanny McPhee likes."

"Her name is McGee not McPhee," chided Olivia playfully. "And why do you need chocolate, the woman doesn't start until July the sixth?"

"I'm stocking up for future bribes."

"Why would you need to bride her?"

"My mother will always find an excuse to visit and annoy the crap out of her."

Chortling, Olivia agreed, "We better buy a box just to be on the safe side."

"Touché Detective Sexy."

"So you still think I'm sexy Detective Cutie?"

"Hell yeah; you get more beautiful every day honey."

"Have you been drinking?"

"No, I'm just drunk on your love."

"More like you've been talking to Fin lately."

"Got me, we spoke this morning while you were in the shower. He actually called to thank us for the invite to the naming day."

"Will Allison be there?"

"She's on duty on the twenty seventh, but is trying to swap it for Sunday."

"At least she has a month to organise the change."

"Yes and we need tampons. I used the last one before we left the house."

"Oh, I long for the days I can use one of those again."

"Uh huh," mumbled Nicole absentmindedly.

"Pardon baby?"

"What?"

"You were off in space somewhere."

"Oh sorry Liv."

Turning into a side street, Olivia pulled into the parking lot situated behind Jackson's law firm, "What's on your mind Nic?"

"When the twins turn one, would you like to have another baby?"

Taken about by the reply, Olivia enquired, "Wow where did that come from?"

"We are about to sign new wills that include our children and it got me thinking."

"Sweetie, our babies are only three weeks old."

"They'll be one month in two days and I'm just being silly."

"You are not silly. You are romantic, thoughtful and planning ahead. Let's just enjoy the two children we have now before you organise the next one."

"Fine honey," responded Nicole as she got out of the Mustang.

-o-

Monday 15th June, 2009

Olivia sat beside Casey and held her hand tightly as a uniformed Nicole recited the list of injuries she received at the hands of Ferrier. The blonde was clam and answered all questions put before her by Judge Waters, AUSA Carmichael and Defence Attorney Trevor Langan.

The presiding Judge had summoned Nicole to her court to hear firsthand the damage done as a result of Lionel Granger's deception and greed.

Two hours after the sentencing hearing had begun; Granger was sentenced to thirty years imprisonment. Judge Walters did not deem it necessary to set a parole recommendation, so none was given.

The welcomed outcome was celebrated with lunch at The Palm Restaurant then Olivia and Nicole returned home in time for the twins feeding.

-o-

Megan was overjoyed by the sentencing news and blubbered unashamedly on Nicole's shoulder before leaving for home.

Once Olivia was finished breast feeding, she and Nicole placed the babies on a cushioned play matt on the living room floor. At six weeks of age, both children were alert, active and hitting their development markers.

The following Saturday, a proud Elliot and Katy were officially named godparents to Zachary and Lauren at the Lake House. Festivities flowed into Sunday once Alex Cabot accidently let it slip to Olivia that Jamie had proposed the night before.

The party continued outside on the porch while Nicole lay in bed watching over the twins. Both were sound asleep in their portable cots after nursing at midnight, and Olivia was downstairs happily chatting with Alex about wedding plans.

Before drifting off, Nicole smiled as a wave of fulfilment washed over her.

-o-