Just a little bit left in this part of our 3 part series. Hope you are still enjoying it! Part 3 will come later this summer. Lots going on with the EO/Taylor Swift Playlist and I have another really short story I want to put up that is pure fluff asap. Plus the epilogue of Stay coming this week.

Lots of writing! Anyway, here is chapter 23. Enjoy some Holiday sweetness and our boy's 1st birthday.

The week before Christmas, the Stabler family was standing in the lot down the street selling Christmas Trees. Elliot was meeting them there after work. Row after row of large pine trees lined the lot. Olivia held Noah in her arms, and the young boy pointed to all the lights hanging and lighting up the lot. Olivia smiled at him, seeing the magic of Christmas in his face. Something that she as a child had missed out on. She could hear Maureen, Kathleen, Richie and Lizzie shouting, laughing, living and enjoying all the things she had wanted. She felt a hand on her back and turned to see Elliot watching her.

"Hey." He leaned in and kissed her cheek. "Kids find anything they like yet?"

She smiled at him, "They've been a little distracted by all the lights. We haven't looked too far yet." Noah's hands reached out to Elliot, "You want to go see Daddy?"

Noah squealed, "Dada!"

Elliot smiled and scooped up his son, pressing a kiss to his cheek, "Hey buddy." He sighed and held him close, "Man I missed you today."

Olivia rubbed his back, she knew he was handling a particularly difficult case about a young boy who had been murdered. She knew like him, he saw their children in every child they encountered. Elliot was watching their son, a look of sadness on his face, "You okay?"

He looked over at her and smiled, "Better now."

She squeezed his arm, "Come on. Let's try and wrangle the other kids and then we can get home."

He took a deep breath and sighed, "Home."

Looping her arm through his, they walked with Noah towards the rest of the kids, "Dad! Dad, look! That one is so tall I can't even see the top of it! Can we get it?"

Elliot smiled as the girls hugged him, "It wouldn't fit in our house Richie. But it is beautiful."

"We can put it in the yard." Richie said with a shrug, "Santa can leave our presents out there."

Olivia smiled and ruffled his hair, "I think we should look at a bit of a smaller one."

The three younger kids walked down the rows, Maureen hung back with her parents. Noah reached for her and she smiled, taking him from her Father, "I can't believe he is going to be a year old."

Olivia groaned, "Don't even mention it. Please. I'm in complete denial."

Noah clapped his hands as Maureen walked with him, "Our little New Years baby." She nuzzled her brother's nose, "Life's pretty sweet with you in it."

Elliot smiled, wrapped his arm around his oldest daughter and kissed the top of her head, "It's pretty sweet with you too Mo."

She smiled at her Dad, "Thanks Dad."

Lizzie came running up to them excitedly, "I think we found one!"

Elliot winked at his wife, "Let's see how much this will cost me." He kissed her cheek and moved ahead of them, "Alright. Which one baby?"

Maureen fell in beside her Mom, "Do you and Dad have Christmas off?"

"We got incredibly lucky. Yes." She leaned in and kissed Noah's cheek. "I think Cragen knew how important Noah's first Christmas is to us."

"That's because Cragen would do anything for you and Dad. Well...mostly you." She laughed as they approached their siblings, "We know you're the favorite."

Olivia laughed and looked ahead of her and saw the most perfect tree she had ever seen. She took a deep breath, "Wow."

Elliot smiled and looked at it, "I think it's a winner."

Richie jumped up and down, "I saw it first! I found it!"

Olivia leaned down and kissed the top of his head, "Great job buddy."

Two hours later, Elliot was on the floor adjusting the tree in it's stand while Kathleen and Lizzie checked to see if it was straight. Olivia was in the kitchen finishing dinner with Maureen. Richie came inside with Scout and shouted, "It's snowing!"

Olivia smiled at him, "What did Scout think?"

"He was trying to catch them and eat them." Richie said as he tossed Scout a treat, "Is dinner almost ready?"

"It is. Why don't you wash up and then go tell Dad and your sisters." She moved from the stove to the table. Leaning down, she kissed Noah's cheek who was sitting in his highchair, "Almost baby. Almost."

A minute later, Elliot and the kids came back in, and started to wash up. Elliot started to help Olivia bring food to the table. Before sitting down, he spun her around catching her off guard, "Thanks for cooking."

She smiled, touched his cheek, "You're welcome."

Sitting down at the table, she turned to Noah and started to feed him first. The kids were talking about school, talking about what they were excited for in terms of vacation and Christmas. It had been an incredibly long day. Painful. Exhausting. Elliot sat at the head of the table, closed his eyes and listened. It was loud, and yet it was everything. He felt a warm hand over his and when he opened his eyes he couldn't help but smile. Olivia was looking right at him. He didn't need to say a thing. She just knew. She always did. And that was what made them such a great team. Taking a deep breath, he watched her turn back to their son and he settled in. Happy to be right where he was.

Later that night, Elliot was sitting on the couch with Noah in his arms. Olivia was upstairs trying to get Richie to go to sleep. He was staring at the tree, just admiring it. So far only the lights were on it, but it was mesmerizing. Noah was beginning to fall asleep as he lay against his Father's chest. Elliot smiled, and pressed a kiss to his son's head. He was so wrapped up in what he was doing that he hadn't heard Olivia come back downstairs. She was standing at the base of the stairs, Scout sat at her heels and she watched the scene unfold in front of her.

Elliot turned Noah so that he could see his face. He smiled softly, "Hey little man. Almost a year old, huh?" Noah yawned and Elliot's heart squeezed in his chest, "You have absolutely no idea how loved you are kid. By me, your Mom, your brother and sisters. And so many more. But…" Elliot shifted in his spot, his voice cracked, "Everyday I see things...things that terrify me. Because it's all the things I worry about that could…" Elliot swallowed hard and tried to control himself, "You Noah...your brother and your sisters are so precious to me. And I will never let never let anyone hurt you. The thought of…" Leaning down he kissed his son's nose, needing to feel him close, "Please God, just keep them safe. When I can't. Keep them safe. Always." Noah cooed and Elliot lifted him again, settling him against his chest, "I love you son."

Olivia wiped the tears away from her eyes and walked into the living room. She knew she had interrupted a moment so personal to him. She didn't want to make him feel like she had eavesdropped, btu she also knew that no one would understand his pain more than her. Sitting down on the arm of the couch, she put a hand on his arm, "Hey…"

She heard him sniffle and look up at her, 'H-hey."

Leaning down, she kissed the top of his head, "What can I do for you?"

He sighed, leaned his head back against the pillows, "Just...be here. With me. With Noah."

Moving to the other side of him, she sat down and curled up against him. He leaned into her, not trying to pull away and she knew he was allowing himself to be vulnerable. Something he didn't often do. "I'm right here El. Right here."

Thirty minutes later, Olivia had put Noah to sleep and rejoined her husband in the living room. Elliot was standing in front of the tree again, staring up at the lights. When she approached him, be turned and handed her a glass of wine, "Thank you."

With her arm closest to him, she slipped her arm around his waist, "He go down okay?"

"He did. It was an easy transfer." She leaned against his shoulder, "Richie was sleeping on the rocking chair when I got in there though."

Elliot laughed, "He keeps doing that. Tells me he needs to protect his baby brother."

Olivia smiled, "He loves his brother that's for sure." She looked up at him, "Just like his Dad loves him too."

Elliot smiled sheepishly, "You heard me, huh?"

She stepped away, took both of their wine glasses and placed them on the coffee table, "I heard you."

He reached for her again and she smiled but shook her head, "Where are you going?"

Olivia stepped back, flipped off the lights and moved to the corner of the room to turn on some Christmas music. "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" rang through the speaker and Elliot smiled. Walking over to him again, she slipped her hand in his, "Dance with me?"

Elliot pulled her closer, "Come here."

She wrapped her arms around his waist and stared up at him. He swayed them slowly as he wrapped his hands in her hair, "El…"

"I just...think we should move to a place where nothing can ever go wrong. Where I can keep you all in a little bubble." He smiled, "Although I don't think a place like that exists."

"Sadly, I don't think it does either hon. But...we do the best we can everyday. We teach our kids what to look for. We go to work everyday to protect our family. And we love them. We love them always. That's all we can do." She leaned up and kissed him, "And when it feels to heavy, you talk to me."

Brushing her hair back, he smiled, "You have no idea how much I love you Olivia. No idea how grateful I am that I get to come home to you."

She smiled then, and stopped dancing, "When I was really little...I always wanted a Christmas Tree but we never had one." Stepping back from him, "I dreamed about laying under my tree and just admiring the lights...I thought it would be so beautiful."

He smiled at her, "You can do that now…"

She nodded and knelt down in front of the tree, "Only if I get to do it with my husband."

Elliot walked to the couch, picked up a blanket and lay it down in front of the tree. Laying down, he put his arm out without needing to say a word. She curled up beside him and they stared up at the lights. Olivia felt something brush up beside her and she smiled. Scout settled in beside her. Tangling her hair in his curls she sighed happily.

Elliot looked beside her, "My competition…"

Olivia chuckled and kissed his neck, "I told you, he's cute but he's no Elliot Stabler." He turned his face towards hers, "You're still number one. Always will be."

Elliot smiled and kissed the top of her head, "I'm going to hold you to that Benson."

She looked up at the lights, felt her husband and her dog beside her and she wondered not for the first time, how did I get this lucky?

On Christmas morning, Elliot woke up first. It was still dark out but he knew the kids would be awake soon. Turning in bed he saw that Olivia was still fast asleep. They had been up late wrapping last minute gifts to put under the tree and trying to ensure that Richie and Lizzie didn't come downstairs to try and find Santa. Watching her sleep, he was struck with the thought of how lucky he was. Sometimes he wondered how they had got here. All those years ago he wasn't sure he would ever get her to break down the wall. And yet, here they were.

Suddenly, her eyes were opening. He saw her shift on the bed, her eyes blinked a few times adjusting to the lake. She inhaled softly, and a small smile spread on her face. "Good morning."

Leaning further into the pillow beside him he smile back, "Merry Christmas Liv."

She stretched her legs and moved in closer, "When do you think the kids will be awake?"

He opened his mouth to respond but they both heard a small knock on the door. He left himself and said, "I guess that answers your question."

She laughed softly, and rolled her side, "Duty calls. Come in guys."

The door opened and all five kids emerged. Maureen was holding Noah which surprised both Elliot and Olivia. The five of them walked into the room, " Merry Christmas Mom and Dad."

Elliot smile at his five children, "Merry Christmas. Ready to go downstairs yet?"

Maureen smiled at her parents and held out Noah for Olivia to take. "It's snowing pretty hard. You guys have the best window in the house. We thought maybe this morning before we open presents we could just sit here and watch the snow together."

Elliot looked at her carefully, "Are the five of you feeling OK? Normally you're knocking each other down to get to the tree."

Kathleen crawled up on the bed and lay down beside Elliot, " The presents will still be there later. But Christmas is a lot more than just presents, isn't it Dad?"

Elliot looked at his second child and smiled, "It's about a lot more than presents. You're right."

The twins and Maureen climbed up on the bed and Scout soon followed. Olivia rested against her husband's shoulder and thought even with all the sadness, she had everything she needed right here. All of them sat there watching the snowfall gently outside. Nothing more needed to be said.

Later that evening, the snow had settled and they had been able to open their presents. Elliot was standing in the kitchen cleaning up after dinner. He smiled listening to the kids talk about their presents and how fun the day had been.

Olivia walked into the kitchen and smiled at him. Placing a hand on his arm she leaned up and kissed his cheek. "Come outside with me?"

He gave her a questioning look but didn't hesitate. He wiped his hands off on a towel, reached for their coats and followed her out the back door. Scout followed behind them and started to run around in the freshly fallen snow. He watched her slip on her coat and watch Scout with a smile on her face. He waited, knowing that whatever she had to say she would say when she was ready. She knelt down to play with Scout for a moment and then looked back up at him. "I haven't given you your Christmas present yet."

He shook his head and walked closer to her, "I thought we agreed to focus on the kids this year."

He heard her laugh as she stood up, "Says the man who gave me the most beautiful pair of saphire earrings."

His cheeks flushed and shrugged, "I told you I couldn't help myself."

Walking over to him, she slipped an envelope out of her pocket and handed it to him. "Neither could I."

He looked down and saw a plane ticket peeking out from the envelope. He found took out two tickets to California. "Liv?"

She smiled softly at him. "Remember how Cragen wanted us to go to that conference out in San Diego? Well I told him yes and took a few extra days. Times been cleared. It's a short trip. Just four days not counting the one day of the mom is going to stay with the kids you can say no if you don't want to go. But I just thought… It might be nice for us to get away, just us. We haven't had time away since our honeymoon. I'd really like to spend some time with my husband."

His heart hammered away in his chest. Four days alone with his wife in a place that he has always wanted to visit. He looked up at her, and saw that she was anxious. Leaning in he pressed his lips to hers. "Olivia, this is exactly what I needed. What we both needed."

She smiled and leaned further into them, "Merry Christmas Elliot."

He held her face firmly in his hands and kissed her as more snow began to fall, "Merry Christmas Liv."

On Noah's birthday, Olivia tiptoed quietly into his room. They had been awake late as it was New Years Eve but she wanted to spend some time alone with her son. He was wide awake when she got there and waiting anxiously for her. She lifted him up, kissed his cheek and changed him for the morning. Settling in the rocking chair, Scout curled up at her feet and watched her rock Noah back and forth. "Happy Birthday sweet boy."

Noah sat with her, pressed his chubby cheek into her chest and she sighed, "You little man surprised the hell out of us. More than once." She hadn't noticed Elliot leaning against the door frame, all her attention was focused on the boy in her arms, "I didn't think I'd get to have you. And finding out I was pregnant...was everything. And then you went and decided to join the world a little early." She laughed thinking about that night and kissed the top of his brown curls, "And while I won't say it was...the most pleasant experience. It was so worth it Noah James. I love you more now than I did the moment I held you in my arms that night. I can't believe you are a year old. I wish time would slow down. And yet...I can't wait to see what an amazing boy you become. Happy Birthday."

Noah moved in her arms and spotted his Father, his face little up, "Dadda!"

Olivia's eyes lifted and she saw Elliot standing there, smiling lovingly at both of them, "Happy Birthday little man." He walked into the room, knelt down in front of them, "One year ago...your Mom proved she is the biggest badass of all."

Olivia sighed and slapped his chest, "Don't say that word in front of him! We learned he's very impressionable."

Elliot chuckled and leaned in to kiss her, and then Noah, "Well it's true. To be honest? I was scared to death that night Liv. Probably more scared than I had been in a long time if not ever. But you handled it like a pro."

She smirked, "Uh...pretty sure I panicked."

He shook his head and twirled her hair between his fingers, "No. You didn't. Sure you were nervous but Liv you were amazing. So strong for our son."

She looked down at Noah who was watching both of his parents, "Sometimes I can't even believe he's ours."

"I know." He smiled at Noah who wrapped his fingers around his Father's hand, "But he is."

Taking a deep breath she looked at Elliot again, "I um...I've been thinking."

He lifted his eyes to hers again, "About?"

"As scared as I am…" She rubbed Noah's back softly, "I look at Noah and know that I can't imagine not doing this again. It's a risk...but I'd like to try again. But only if you are ready too. Only if you still want it. The day I told you...before." Her cheeks flushed and her eyes began to burn, "You said all you wanted in life was one more kid. Do you still want that?"

Elliot reached for her, "I do want that. But...are you sure? I mean I won't lie. This whole experience...it broke my heart too. Not just losing our child...but watching you go through it. I wish I could have taken the pain from you. And I don't want you to go through that again. I don't want us to go through that again."

"We know that it's a possibility. But it was a possibility before Noah too. I mean...think about it. It took us a year to get pregnant with Noah. That too was scary. And if it's not meant to be...I'll have to learn to accept that. We're so lucky to have the five children we do have. But I don't want to wake up one morning and regret not even trying." She shrugged sadly, "So...what do you think?"

Elliot smiled and looked at her, then down at Noah, "I think I can't imagine not trying either."

She let out a shaky breath and smiled, "Yeah?" He nodded slowly and she smiled, "Good." Licking her lips she moved closer to him, "Besides, no matter what happens. We'll do it together. You jump, I jump, right?"

His heart flipped in his chest and he smiled softly. Her brown eyes bore into his blue and he knew he'd do anything for this woman, "You jump. I jump."

Later that day, their friends and family were gathered at the house for Noah's birthday party. Olivia was in the kitchen with Bernie putting the finishing touches on the cake. Olivia looked up at John and Fin who were sitting at the counter. "I appreciate you guys coming. I know it's a tough day. And you both look a little hungover."

John lifted his coffee, "Only for your kid Liv. Only for your kid."

Fin chuckled, "I'm fine. Had fun last night, but I'm fine. Wouldn't have missed this."

Elliot walked into the kitchen carrying Noah, his namesakes were right behind him, Noah and James. "I think we're all ready. Are you?"

Olivia smiled and nodded towards Noah's highchair, "Yep! Can you put him in his seat?"

Elliot walked towards the table and sat Noah down, turned to his friends and kids, "Alright, here we go guys!"

"We love birthdays in this house." Maureen said with a huge smile on her face, "Don't we Liv?"

Olivia smiled as she walked closer to them, "We do."

"Daddy proposed to Mommy on her birthday." Lizzie said looking at Noah and James, "Because Mommy didn't like Birthday's before."

"A hopeless romantic, eh?" James sighed, "You really do put us all to shame Stabler."

Elliot chuckled, "A hopeless romantic or a crazy man. I'm not sure. I was scared to death she was going to kill me or worse, say no."

Olivia laughed and put her hand on his arm, "I was never going to say no El."

He smiled and leaned in to kiss her, "Oh get a room!" Fin shouted behind them.

Elliot smirked and looked at his friend, "We have one. Upstairs. Where we spend many-"

Olivia put her hand over his mouth, "Not at our son's birthday, please?"

Bernie huffed and stepped between them, "Then you better stand apart because if you don't he won't be able to stop touching you. I know my son."

"Jesus Ma!" Elliot bowed his head and everyone laughed.

Cragen pointed at him from his point in the room, "She's right about that. Even before you two got together I had to keep you apart all the damn time."

"Okay. Okay." Elliot put his hands up, "We can play tease Elliot and Olivia later, aren't we here to celebrate someone else?"

Olivia knelt down in front of Noah, "We are. This guy. You ready to try some cake baby boy?" Noah clapped his hands excitedly and she smiled, "I think that would be a yes!"

Bernie set the cake down in front of him, "Okay. Here we go."

The group around the young boy started to sing, and Olivia couldn't keep her eyes off of him. He had changed so much since the first time she had held him that night in the precinct. And yet, he was still just as perfect. This little piece of her and Elliot. A reminder that what they had was real. Proof that this was her life. Proof that someone loved her and always would. She felt a hand reach out behind the highchair and squeeze her arm. She didn't have to look to know who it belonged too.

As the last notes of the birthday song ended, Olivia looked at Noah, "Alright buddy, can you blow out your candles?" Noah looked up at her curiously and she laughed, "Not so much, huh?"

Richie jumped up and stood in front of his brother, "I'll help him! Watch buddy!" Together, the two boys blew out the candle and everyone clapped. "Now the real fun begins. Welcome to sugar land little brother."

Olivia smiled and pointed to a cake behind her, "That one is for the guests. This one is for Noah." Noah looked at the cake, then at his Mom she just smiled at him. Lifting a finger, she dipped it in the frosting and held it out to him, "Try some Noah."

Noah leaned forward and tasted the frosting, his eyes went wide, "More!"

His hand shot out and grabbed a fistfull of cake and frosting and smushed t to his face, "Well, that's one way to do it." Elliot said as he knelt beside him again, "Good, huh bud-"
His words were cut off when Noah smeared frosting on his face, "I should have seen that coming."

Everyone was laughing as Olivia stood up and pulled her husband up, "Come here." Just as she went to wipe his face off with a napkin, he leaned in, "Elli-" Her words were cut off when he kissed her, "Elliot!"

He chuckled and pulled her closer, "I love you."

Olivia looked back at her friends and family. Instead of making fun of them, this time they were smiling and she knew they knew how happy she was. Turning back to her husband she kissed him again, tasting the frosting and that little bit of just Elliot Stabler, "I love you too."

When she pulled away, she wiped his face off first and then her own. Then turned her attention back to their son who was covered in cake. She could hear someone taking a picture of them and she knew it was something she wanted to keep forever. This moment. Right here. With all the people she loved most. The people that had helped save her when she was so lost. The people that showed her that family doesn't always have to be blood. This was what she had wanted for so long. And now, it was all hers.

Later on, the kids were all watching a movie. Noah napped beside his siblings. James's kids were here too. The adults sat around the kitchen enjoying a beverage. Olivia was settled on Elliot's lap as there weren't enough seats but neither one of them cared. Just being together this close was comforting.

Noah lifted his glass, "So a year later, how are you two holding up?"

Olivai looked down at her husband and smiled, "It's been a ride. That's for sure. But it's all been worth it."

James took a deep, "I still maintain the kids name should be James. Not Noah. You wouldn't have met Noah without me and I was your partner Olivia. It hurts."

Christine rolled her eyes at her husband, "Oh let it go you big baby. And not for nothing, I suggested we name our son James when I had him and you shot down the idea."

Everyone laughed and he huffed, "It's just the principle of the thing babe."

Christine looked at Olivia, "All I know is, you make really good looking kids. So you should try it again."

Olivia felt Elliot squeeze her side and knew that Fin, John and Casey were also watching her carefully. She smiled, picked at the label of her beer bottle and smiled, "We're working on it." Elliot leaned in and kissed her cheek and she turned her face towards him offering him a little smile.

"Any wishes for the New Year?" Casey asked, "Big dreams?"

"Yeah. I'd like to win the lottery and not have to work with James anymore." Noah said lifting his beer, "Here's hoping."

James glared at him, "I'm starting to take offence. First Olivia abandoned me...now you want to get rid of me. Am I really that bad?"

Noah and Olivia exchanged glances, "No comment." They both said.

Everyone laughed and John interjected, "Fin's the longest partner I ever had. I'm waiting for Stabler to kick my ass. But then I remember he has to put up with me so he can stay on the squad with Olivia...so I like my chances."

Fin looked over at Elliot, "Did I ever thank you for taking him off my hands?"

Elliot laughed and looked over at him, "No. You're welcome. But it was worth it. Though I miss working with this one right here." He squeezed her close, "No better partner than Olivia Benson."

"Here, here." Fin raised his hand in salute, "She's one of a kind."

Olivia rolled her eyes, "Okay...stop."

"I'd agree. The short time we did have together, you were damn good at what you do. And that was just at Computer Crimes. From what I've seen and heard about you at SVU, they are very lucky to have you." James said.

"And as a woman, I'm damn glad to hear them praising a female for once. So take it girl." Christine leaned over and squeezed her arm, "I've seen you in action too. I hope my daughter's are half the woman you are."

Olivia cleared her throat, "Thank you Christine...that...that means a lot."

"The world needs another mini Olivia Benson. That's for sure." Cragen stood up, "And I know you'll get it."

He gave them both a look, and they knew that he knew. Even if they hadn't talked to him about what had happened. He knew. But he still believed in them, "I hope so." Elliot whispered, "I really hope so."

Cragen cocked his head to the side, "I have to head out soon. Someone needs to work. Can I borrow you two for a minute?"

Elliot squeezed Olivia's leg and she stood up, "Yeah."

They followed their boss towards the door after he said goodbye to the kids. Cragen reached for his coat, slipped it on and looked at them, "It was a great party. One for the books."

Olivia smiled at him, "You don't have to lie Cap. We know kids' birthday parties aren't the most exciting thing. But we appreciate that you came."

"I wouldn't have missed this for the world." He said softly, "Not for the world Olivia."

She took a shaky breath, "Don-"

"I know." He reached out and squeezed her hand, "I knew when it happened. I just...didn't want to say anything. Didn't want to cause you anymore pain. But I'm so proud of you. Both of you." He looked right at Elliot when he said it, "I...went through it. With Marge. We couldn't…" He took a rattling breath but smiled, "I just...I know."

Elliot looked at the man he so admired and whispered, "Don...I'm so sorry."

He shook his head and smiled, "Marge and I had a good life. Despite my faults...though I will say I could have done better by her. I just didn't know how to handle all my feelings. I'm glad you know better Elliot." He looked abc at the kids on the couch, "Besides, I get to live it all with those five kids."

Olivia smiled at him, "You know that you are their Grandfather. And they adore you Cap. So much."

Cragen smiled and reached into his pocket, "Anything they ever need, don't hesitate to ask." He pulled an envelope out of his pocket, "Here's a little something for Noah."

Elliot narrowed his eyes, he already knew what this was, "Cap-"

Cragen smiled and held up his hand, "It goes into his college fund. I've got no one else to spend it on." Olivia went to protest this time and he laughed, "We're not arguing this. And that's a direct order."

Elliot smiled and took the envelope, "Understood Cap."

Cragen leaned in and kissed Olivia's cheek, "Go enjoy your night. I'll see you at work tomorrow. I expect to see you in everyday before your trip in two weeks."

"Well be there. Thanks again for giving us the time." Olivia whispered, "Drive safe."

Cragen shook Elliot's hand and then exited out the front door of the house. Elliot shut the door behind him and turned back to his wife, "I don't even want to know what's in this envelope."

Olivia sighed, "Well he's never going to let us give it back."

Elliot sighed and ripped open the top, he took out the paper inside and whistled, "Christ."

Olivia looked over his shoulder, "Oh my God."

Elliot looked right at her, "Not going to lie...with five kids." His face flushed, "And hopefully more, This would help but…"

She frowned, "I know...but you're right. He will never let us give it back. So I don't think we really have a choice." She paused, "It just makes me sad that...he didn't get to-" She frowned, "He would have been a hell of a Dad."

Elliot smiled sadly at her, "I know. But...in a way. He's a Dad to all of us. So in some small way, he gets to have it Liv. It' snot the same, I know. But he gets to have it."

She sighed, leaned in and wrapped her arms around his waist, "One more El. God I want one more."

He pressed a kiss to her forehead and sighed, "I believe we'll have it Liv. Deep in my soul, I believe it."

She snuggled into his embrace and whispered, "I want you to know though...if it doesn't happen. I'm still right here. With you. Okay?"

He squeezed her tight and smiled, "I know. And I'm right here with you. Always."

On the first day back to school after break, Olivia and Elliot were desperately trying to wrangle the kids together. It was chaos in every sense of the word.

Olivia reached for Richie as he darted towards the living room, "Richie. Sit still. You got food in your hair again."

Richie squirmed, "Mom! Stop!"

Olivia growled and reached for a face cloth, "I can't send you to school looking like you haven't bathed since before Christmas. DSS will be knocking on my door and that's not a good look for a cop."

"I can't find Kathleen's backpack anywhere." Elliot said with a sigh as he walked in holding Noah, "Where the hell would we have put it?"

"She's probably hiding it thinking you won't make her go to school." Olivia said with a laugh, "Grab Maureen's old one in the downstairs closet and I'll find her usual one later."

Elliot turned and started to walk towards the hallway, "Did anyone take out the dog?"

Richie's face flushed, "No…"

Elliot turned back to him as Olivia finished cleaning him up, "Why not?"

Richie sighed, "Dad...it's like negative two degrees out."

Elliot smirked and pointed at his wife, "Told you this would happen."

Olivia shot him a look, "Elliot. Don't." She looked at Richie carefully, "Buddy, I know it's cold. But you made a promise to Dad. And today is your day…"

Richie frowned, "Okay…"

She dropped a kiss to the top of his head, "Go put your coat and hat on. Gloves too. Scout will be quick."

Richie walked away from her and Elliot turned to his wife, "Liv, I know we all love that dog but I refuse to be the only one to take care of him." Olivia just smiled at him and he sighed, "Why the hell are you smiling at me like that?"

She walked up to him and wrapped her arms around his waist, "You basically just admitted you loved Scout."

Elliot let his head fall back, "I did no such thing."

She squeezed him closer and kissed his neck, "You said I know we all love that dog' we would imply you. You can't take it back. I heard you."

He started to laugh and tug on her hands, "Liv...stop."

She smirked but never let go, "You can't take it back Elliot! You love that dog! I know you do. You fought me on it like crazy but now you adore him."

Elliot looked down at her and put his hands up in defeat, "I don't know why I try to argue with you about anything. You always win."

She smiled, leaned up and nuzzled his nose, "And don't you forget it El."

He pointed at her quickly, "One dog though. No cats. No birds, fish, freaking hamsters or other rodents. One dog. That's it." He heard the girls arguing upstairs, "This house is enough of a zoo without any more fur creatures."

She smiled, moved her arms so they wrapped around his neck and kissed him, "I promise. No more fur creatures." Her hand reached out to touch his chest, "You're plenty furry for me-"

He laughed and pushed her back, "You're going to kill me woman!"

Olivia laughed harder as the girls came running down the stairs, "Mom, Kathleen put a hole in my favorite sweater!"

Olivia pulled away from her husband and turned to her daughters, "I can fix it. But not today. You'll have to wear something else."

Maureen glared at her sister, "You can't just take my things without asking!"

Kathleen sighed, "You get all the good stuff because you're the oldest! It's not fair!"

Elliot rolled his eyes, "Kathleen, Grandma bought you all new clothes for Christmas. You're fine."

"You're a guy. You wouldn't understand." Kathleen flipped her hair, "Fashion is important Dad."

Elliot looked at his wife, "I take it back...all of you girls are going to kill me." He looked back at his daughter, "Who are you and what have you done with my little girl?"

"I'm growing up, Dad." She said with a shrug, "Deal with it."

Olivia chuckled and walked over to them, "Okay, let's not give your Dad a heart attack before 8 am. I'll help you both pick out your outfits but we need to hurry up. We're all going to be late."

Elliot watched her walk towards the stairs with the girls, he turned to see Richie coming inside with Scout. He smiled at his son, "Thank you Richie."

Richie shivered and unhooked Scout's leash, "Are you mad at me?"

Elliot smiled and walked over to him, "I'm not mad at you buddy. I know it's cold. I know sometimes we just aren't in the mood to do things but a dog is a lot of responsibility. Your Mom and I need help. We have enough to worry about keeping you and your brother and sisters in line." He teased.

Richie smiled, "I know. You're right. Sorry...I just wish vacation wasn't over."

"I know. The first day back is always hard. But it will be February break before you know it. And then after that the year starts to fly by. It will be okay." He dropped a kiss to his son's head, "We need to get moving though. Make sure Scout has enough water and food and then grab your lunch. You can help me put Noah in the car."

Richie started to move around the kitchen as Elliot picked up his youngest son out of his highchair, "When are you and Mom going to California again?"

"We leave in another 9 days. It's a short trip. We have a thing for work. But Grandma will be with you." Elliot cleaned Noah off and smiled at him, "You'll be the man of the house of course."

Richie smiled at his Dad, "I'll take care of everyone. I promise."

"I know you will." Elliot walked into the living room and started to put Noah in his winter gear, he looked towards the stairs, 'Time's ticking ladies! Stop putting on a fashion show and get down here."

Kathleen came barreling down the stairs first, "Dad...just because you don't even look in the mirror before you get ready doesn't mean the rest of us don't care."

Elliot huffed, "Hey...I haven't had any complaints from anyone. Specifically your Mother."

Olivia chuckled and came downstairs, "That's because half the time I pick out your clothes. Even when we were partners. If I leave you to your own devices nothing matches." She walked up to him and tugged on his tie, setting it in place.

Elliot smiled and pulled her closer, squeezing her ass, "You don't seem to complain when I'm wearing anything. Or nothing at all."

She beamed up at him, leaning in she whispered huskily, "I prefer nothing at all.."

"Oh God." Maureen came down the stairs and put her hand in front of her eyes, "Really? Noah may only be one but let's not scar the kid. Talk about a lifetime of trauma!"

Elliot kissed Olivia once and smacked her on the backside, "Hey...you're the one that wanted us to get together. So you have to suffer the consequences. I can't help it that I can't keep my hands off your Mom. It's her fault for looking so good."

Maureen put her fingers in her ears, "La! La! La! Not listening!" She looked at her youngest sister, "Lizzie save yourself."

Olivia slipped on her coat, "That's enough anyway. We really need to get going. Otherwise we're all going to be late and your Dad and I can't miss anytime since we're going away."

Lizzie pouted as she put on her coat, "I still don't think it's fair that you get a vacation when we don't."

ELliot smiled and leaned down to help her zip up her coat, 'Seeing as we didn't really get a vacation when you did...I'm not sorry. Plus part of the time we're working."

"The rest of the time you'll be frolkcing on a beach together." Maureen said then paused, "Oh God. Why did I just do that to myself?" She put a hand to her forehead, "I'm going to need so much therapy."

"What's she even talking about? What's wrong with thinking about Mom and Dad on a beach?" Richie asked as he walked over to them.

"Stop talking! Everyone stop talking!" Maureen covered her ears, "I gotta get out of here."

Olivia was laughing, "Ahh...teenagers. Every little thing is embarrassing to them."

"Everyone out." Elliot pointed to the door, "March people. March." Kathleen took Noah and started to walk towards the door with the twins. Elliot grabbed Olivia's hand as she went to walk past him and spun her around, "Now I'm thinking about frolicking on a beach with you."

Olivia giggled and pushed his chest back, "You're going to have to keep it together. We still have a week and a half left."

He smiled and ran his hands up and down her sides, "Okay. But you got any outfits or bathing suits you need to model for me? I can rate them for you. They'll all be 10s but-"

She rolled her eyes and kissed him softly, "You're insane."

"Only because you make me that way." He kissed her hard, "God I can't wait to have you all to myself. The things I"m going to do to you…" He licked his lips and looked down at her chest, "You'll be sore for a week."

Olivia shivered but tried to keep her composure, "Is that a promise?"

He threatened his fingers through her hair, "Hell yeah it is. You and me, a hotel bed, no kids, no responsibilities? I'm taking full advantage babe. And no you can't get mad at me for calling you that right now."

She chuckled and kissed him again, "Okay. But...I'll punish you for it later."

He groaned and pulled her closer, "Fine by me Detective. You can punish me however you wish."

She slid her hand down the front of him and smiled, "Your first punishment is knowing that you're on overnights tonight. So...you won't be able to see a damn thing." She kissed him and let her fingers trail over his growing bulge, "Until maybe tomorrow. Sorry."

He hung his head, "Fuck. I forgot about that."

"The price we paid for getting some alone time." She heard Maureen honking the horn of the car, "But...I promise I'll make the wait worth your while."

Elliot watched her starting to walk towards the door, he gulped, "Oh yeah?"

"I may not be able to model them for you. But...I picked up a few items I'll be packing. Lots of lace. Red. Won't take up much space in my suitcase."

Elliot clenched his jaw, "Olivia…"

She winked at him, "Gonna be a hell of a trip babe. I hope you're ready."

He watched her walking out of the house and smiled to himself, "Oh I'm ready…"

He quickly said goodbye to Scout, locked the door and followed her to the car. For the first time in a long time, he was willing the days to go by faster. He couldn't wait to be alone with his wife.