Fireman Carry

by vanchi1211

Life in and outside Firehouse 51 and the loft. Missing scenes and imagines with focus on the three officers roommates.

19. Chapter 19

This story happened after Benny's death, and Stella and Severide were broken up by then. In my story, it would be Chapter 6 then Chapter 17, then this one. As always, Gallo and Violet instead of Otis and Foster. Oh, just imagine this happened a month or two after Violet's transfer to 51. Warning that this is a very long story, which I tried to shorten but somehow didn't feel it's complete.

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---

"Truck 81, Engine 51, Ambulance 61. Car accident."

Casey and Severide barely stepped into the ground of the firehouse, passing Otis' memorial, when the alarm sounded. With one quick move, Casey gave Severide his bag and ran to the rig. Stella ran behind him, dropping her bag on the squad table before running to the driver's seat, tying up her hair carelessly before shrugging on her turnout coat. She cursed audibly for not having breakfast before coming on shift on time because Brett promised her doughnut from the bakery near her place.

"Kidd!" Violet threw her something as she ran to the ambulance. She smirked when she caught the doughnut—which was wrapped in tissue—and stole a bite as she climbed into the rig. She put the rest in the rig next to the gear.

"Are you going to finish that?" asked Mouch.

"Yes," said Stella. "Are you really eyeing half a doughnut, Mouch? I don't know you're that….Mouch," said Stella.

"He's salty because Brett denied him second doughnut," said Gallo.

"Violet was eating the third doughnut," said Mouch.

"Brett's bribing her to do all the reports this shift, since she'll be flying to New York as soon as shift ends," said Stella. "That's why we have doughnuts in the first place, Violet's been cranky because Brett will take time off next shift and she'll be stuck with a floater."

"Mouch, I have an offer. One dozen doughnuts," chimed Casey.

"This call's report? Deal," said Mouch.

"You wish. Report for next joint call fire," corrected Casey. "Coordinate with all the officers and write the report."

"All other officers in this area means…" said Stella. "You're still avoiding Delaney and Leone?"

"Yep," said Casey. "As much as Brett is avoiding Fidell." The aftermath of Violet's transfer to 51 was Captains Delaney and Leone of Firehouse 20 gave Casey cold shoulders and Laura Fidell, Violet's ex-partner, refused to talk to Brett when they met. She kept a good contact with Violet, though, telling her all things that she endured with her new partners. Fidell was in her third partner, having kicked the last two partners back to the pool.

"I don't get you guys. Violet wanted to transfer here," said Stella.

"One temporary shift that became permanent, Brett persuaded her to transfer," said Casey. "I don't really care about Delaney, but it's hard to coordinate without being on Leone's good grace."

"Another thing I still don't get is that the one other Captain you can work with is Leone," grumbled Stella.

"We don't hang out, Kidd. We work together and write reports. She'll come around. Important thing is, we fill the paramedic spot," said Casey. Stella parked the rig and took a bite out of her doughnut before following Casey to the scene. "What's going on?" he asked when he saw a car was up in flames. "Herrmann, hit the fire!"

"That car came out of nowhere, hit the LED board," said a man.

"Help! My husband was stuck!" yelled a lady.

"Sir! Cover your head!" yelled Casey.

"Captain, I can attach the rope from afar and have the car pulled while Engine kills the fire," said Gallo.

"No, you do that, he might bleed to death. We cannot go near now," said Violet. Brett nodded.

"We'll wait until fire is out," said Casey. "Hey, sir! Hang on there, cover your head!"

"Pull him, get him out of there, please!" yelled the woman. Brett restrained her.

"Mam, don't get near. The car can explode!" said Stella, helping Brett pulling her away. "Is there anyone inside the car beside the driver?"

"Yes, there are! I think, I don't know," she stammered.

"61 to main, we need one more ambulance, and have another on standby," said Brett to the radio.

"You have to get him out of there! He's almost burned!" yelled the woman.

"Mam, what's your name?" Violet stood in front of her and blocked her view of the burning car. "Mam, look at me."

"Sarah," said the woman.

"Okay, Sarah. See, the car squished your husband's legs. It's very likely that the bones are broken, maybe shattered. If the broken bones are sticking out, then if we pull the car, your husband is gonna bleed to death. What they're doing is attempting to put out the fire, we're going in there to put tourniquets on his legs to stop the blood flow, then they're gonna pull the car and free him. The car is what keeping him from bleeding out now," said Violet firmly.

"Come here with me, mam," said Gallo. "They're gonna save him as soon as the fire is under control."

"Gallo, the moment the fire's out, you and me, the driver. Grab the halligan," said Casey. Gallo ran to the truck.

"Are we good, Herrmann?" asked Casey.

"We are. We'll keep watch of the fire!" said Herrmann.

"Brett, Mikami, go! Mouch, attach the rope. Kidd, ready to pull," said Casey. "Ambulance 99, take the driver," he said to Fidell from Ambulance 99 who just arrived.

"Sir, hold on, we're gonna save you, okay? Hang on for a bit, we'll bring you to Med," said Brett.

"Pulse is weak. Pushing Versed," said Violet.

"This leg is already bleeding," said Brett.

"Race you on the tourniquet," said Violet, quickly working on the other leg.

"I'm done," said Brett. Violet nodded. "Help hold him, Sullivan," said Brett to an Engine staff who stood near them. "Casey, we're good to go!"

"Wait, we're pulling this victim out, in 30 seconds!" said Casey.

"She's on cardiac arrest," said Fidell as Casey and Gallo lifted the victim out of the car. "No pulse. I'm bagging. Give CPR," she said to her partner.

"Kidd, pull the car, nice and easy," said Casey. Sullivan, Brett, and Violet held the man and put him on the stretcher.

"Inserting IV," said Brett. "Come on, mam, you can come with us to Med." She and Violet pushed the stretcher inside the ambulance and drove away.

Fidell gave Gallo the balloon to pump the oxygen. "Every time he said so. Fernandez, count aloud so Violet's boyfriend can know when to pump." Gallo rolled his eyes.

"I'm gonna shock him," said Fidell, pulling the woman's blouse open. "A bit of privacy around here, Captain?" she asked Casey. Casey yelled to Mouch and Herrmann to keep the bystanders away. "Charge to 150. Clear!" she shocked the victim before listening to the heartbeat. "I got pulse. Keep pumping," said Fidell.

"Fernandez, you drive," said Fidell. "Thanks, Violet's boyfriend." She climbed to the ambulance and received the balloon pump from Gallo. Gallo closed the door after the stretcher and thumped on the door.

"That annoying girl," gritted Gallo.

"You said so about Violet and slept with her the next week," reminded Ritter. Gallo became flustered before running to get the saw and stored it back to the truck. Stella and Casey who were nearby chuckled. When he finished and Casey finished talking to a patrol officer, Stella was already inside the truck, finishing the doughnut from before the call.

"So, Gallo," said Stella. "Fidell's your rival too in the academy? She seemed salty to you."

"No, I knew her as Violet's partner, she transferred to replace the older partner who gave birth," said Gallo. "Nice in the beginning, but once things became complicated, she became salty towards me."

"Complicated between you and Fidell?" asked Mouch.

"Between… Violet and I," said Gallo, her face reddened.

"Now whatever you do, whatever, never refer to Brett as the older partner," said Stella. "You'll be dead."

"I forgot the name of that person," said Gallo. "The older partner resigned after maternity leave, so Fidell became permanent at 20."

"So I'm the older firefighter?" asked Mouch.

"No, you're not. You're…" Gallo was lost for words. "Captain, a little help, please?"

"You're on your own. Mouch's gonna do my next fire report for a dozen of doughnut," said Casey.

"I didn't say yes," said Mouch.

"Can't we change area, Captain? You don't want to work with the Captains, I'm sure Brett and I can do not meeting Fidell," said Gallo.

"Yeah. Be the Fire Commissioner, Gallo, and change the areas," said Casey.

"Just don't make things complicated and sleep with her, Gallo," said Mouch.

"I didn't…. oh. That was only once," grunted Gallo. The others snickered.

"Truck 81, structure fire."

"Back to back scenes, haven't had it in a while," said Stella.

"I'd like my doughnuts now, Casey," said Mouch when they saw Engine 20 ahead of them.

"We shouldn't say we don't want to work with any other firefighter, Gallo," said Casey. "Do as I say, not as I do."

"Copy that," said Gallo, smirking as Casey jumped out of the truck. It's not everyday Casey joked in the truck, so the change of atmosphere was welcomed. However, the moment they arrived on scene, all smiles were gone and they gathered around Boden. It was an abandoned warehouse.

"Listen up! We have at least 35 civilians inside, 30 minors and 5 adults. This is the site of an unregistered day care in the second floor, a couple homeless families in the third floor. Fire is in the basement and ground floor. Truck 81, Truck 68, Squad 1, second floor. Squad 3, Engine 20, third floor. Engine 51, Engine 59, hold the fire. Ambulance 138, you're triage. Casey, Leone, Delaney, Georgio, Severide, Herrmann, Blacksmith, report every two minutes. Let's go!" commanded Boden. Everyone scrambled into the building. "Commissioner," Boden gritted his teeth when he saw Commissioner Grissom walked to him.

"Wallace. Sit rep?" he asked.

"Unregistered daycare and homeless people live here. We have at least 35 from the daycare. Nobody knows about the homeless people. Seven companies are going in," said Boden. Ambulance 99 arrived. In 5 minutes, some from second floor walked out guiding some adults and carried a couple children.

"Chief, we have more than 70 children here!" said Casey. An explosion was heard.

"Fire in third floor, through the vent!" yelled Delaney. "We just reached third floor. The floor is getting soft, the daycare better evacuate immediately. Georgio!"

"We have too many kids and not enough adults here, Captain!" yelled Lieutenant Georgio.

"Wait in the stairway, we'll get people to carry the kids," said Delaney.

"Kidd and Lin, go and bring the littles! Kids 4 and above, lead them using rope, Gallo!" said Casey.

"Wallace," Grissom pointed to a window on the ground floor. Black smokes are rolling.

"Herrmann!"

"It's rolling in here, Chief! We're not going to be able to hold for much longer!" yelled Herrmann.

"Same for this side, Chief! We just had a collapsing ceiling!" yelled Lieutenant Jennifer Blacksmith.

"Is the way still clear, Jen?" asked Leone.

"Positive, Captain. Not for much longer. Repeat, not for much longer!" yelled Blacksmith.

"The structure is unstable, you have two minutes max to evacuate!" said Boden when a couple more explosions were heard. Engine 53 was now joining them and shot water from the outside to some windows which were on fire. Right then, Stella, Tommy Lin, and Leone led around 20 guys who each held one or two kids on their hands. Captain Leone turned back to the building after shepherding them out.

"Leone, you're not going back in!" said Grissom.

"My people are in there, Commissioner," said Leone.

"Not getting up again," said Grissom. Leone barely nodded before entering the building again. Gallo held a rope which had a long line of children behind him. At least 15 children walking out looking calm, almost happy, following Gallo while chanting a children's song, Leone trailing behind them. All people waiting anxiously outside couldn't help but breaking into smiles seeing how Gallo apparently made it looked fun and the children cheered once they got outside like it was a game day, even though some of them coughed from the smoke. Leone ushered them out and accepted some high-fives from the children before handing them to the triage and ran back inside. Triage was now getting busy, and ambulances from around the city came in, picked up victims, and left. Another explosion was heard.

"Mayday, Chief! We are pulling back, half of third floor collapsed!" yelled Herrmann. "We're good here in third floor, but we can't go further. No more victim on sight!"

"Who are left there? Casey, Delaney, report!" yelled Boden.

"Almost done with the rooms, Chief!" yelled Casey. "Mouch and Bryan are coming with two infants!"

"Pull out, now!" said Boden. "All companies, pull out! Evacuate immediately!" yelled Boden. Right when some firefighters exited the building, a woman came yelling.

"No! No! I was… I left my babies there!" she yelled.

"They're coming behind us," said a firefighter.

"Thank God, thank God," she cried. Boden waved Mouch closer. Her tears of joy turned into anguish when she saw the babies Mouch and Bryan pulled out of their coats. "My kids are Latina, like me! Not them, they're still inside! No!"

"Mam, all the kids are here," said Casey, pointing to the triage.

"You don't understand, my kids were in the ground floor! I left them to grab food in the rubbish bin," she pointed to her dirty plastic bag.

"Not in the daycare? How old are they?" asked Boden.

"You think I can afford daycare? They're twins, they're one! No! Sabina! Layla!" she yelled and tried to charge inside. Casey restrained her.

"Where are they? In which room?" asked Grissom.

"Second room to the right," said the woman, now yelling and screaming at the same time.

"Mam, let me take you to the side," said Casey and pulled her aside, knowing Boden and Grissom were about to make difficult decision. Leone exited the building.

"Delaney and Severide are behind me, then we're done. What is it? Come with me, mam," Leone asked as she wordlessly took the woman from Casey and pulled her in a hug.

"My babies, my babies!" the woman was uncontrollable. Casey threw a thankful look at Leone before walking back to Boden and Grissom.

"I'm not sending any of my men in," said Boden firmly. "It's too dangerous." An explosion was heard, and from the window, they could see that the second floor was mostly gone too.

"The fire spreads too fast in there. Old building, old vent system," said Casey.

"I'm not sending anyone in too. But, Wallace," Grissom spent a second pondering. "You think I can carry two babies at once?"

"Hey!" Boden yelled when Grissom put on his helmet and mask and charged to the fire after grabbing a fire extinguisher. He almost collided into Severide who was about to exit the building, being the last people out with Captain Delaney.

"Grissom!" said Severide.

"Out, Kelly!" yelled Grissom. "I'm gonna be out in 30 seconds!"

"Wait!" Severide turned and followed him. Delaney caught his arm.

"You crazy!?" yelled Delaney. Severide yanked out his hand and ran after Grissom. Delaney exited the building. "Chief, Severide turned back inside following Commissioner Grissom!"

"Of course," Casey rolled his eyes. They all stood there watching the door like hawks. Stella walked to Casey's side.

"Again?" asked Stella desperately.

"Go help triage, he'll be fine," said Casey, his tone betrayed his words. Stella walked to triage.

"Kidd, check him. Josh, this is Stella. She's gonna listen to your lungs, okay?" Brett shoved a little boy in Stella's hands. Stella busied herself.

"Engines, hold back. Attack on my sign!" yelled Boden to Engines who were already in position. Another explosion was heard, followed by a collapsing noise.

---

"Griss! What are you doing?" yelled Severide as he followed the Commissioner.

"What are you doing, dumbass?" asked Grissom.

"Following you!" Severide pointed at a small cot on the corner of the room.

"You made sure to never follow my words, Kelly," said Grissom, lifting one of the babies.

"Not your words, but your action," said Severide. "Come on!" He saw darkness when he felt he got shoved to the floor.

---

"Found him!" yelled someone. "Lieutenant! And the baby!"

"Kelly!" Casey left his position on the side of the building and climbed some rubbles. "Capp, grab the baby! Give me the c-collar!"

"Oh my God, Kelly," Stella gasped from the gaping hole in the wall.

"Here, Kidd, she's alive," Capp gave Stella the baby. At that point, Casey was grateful that Capp got Stella out of the way. An emotional ex-girlfriend was not something he was ready to deal with while doing what he hoped was a rescue, not a recovery. Severide's mask was broken, but his helmet was intact. He pressed his fingers to Severide's neck, feeling relieved when he felt strong pulse.

"One, two, three!" Casey commanded as they rolled Severide onto the backboard and passed him through the wall, to the waiting hand of paramedics outside. More than half of the first floor collapsed, leaving them with no way in but to break in the brick wall from the side of the building. Hearing the PASS alarms as they broke the wall was excruciating not only for Casey and Stella, but all of the firefighters.

"Lieutenant, we'll take you to Med," said Violet to an unconscious Severide. "Washing your eyes now so you can at least see." She poured water to Severide's eyes which were dirty with dust and gently wiped them, talking to Severide as if he was awake and not passed out.

"One, two, three, lift!" Capp and two guys from Squad 1 lifted a huge piece of rubble. "Captain, I found the Commissioner!" yelled Capp. Initially Casey had dilemma about letting Squad guys in. They're not the lightest people in the CFD, which compromised the already broken structure. However, they were needed to dig the rubble fast before the structure gave up. Lieutenant Georgio took Capp and Keller, the lightest guys in two squads, ignoring scowls from Cruz and Tony. Casey stayed on the side, didn't dare to add weight to the already-soft floor.

"C-collar and board!" yelled Casey. Fidell and Fernandez passed him the board, and Casey passed it to the boys.

"He's unconscious," said Keller from Squad 1.

"Be careful turning him back," said Capp. "One, two, three!"

"Found the other baby!" Keller lifted the baby carefully. The baby was squished below Grissom, it looks like Grissom was holding him when he fell. "Here you go, Captain."

"Fidell, the baby!" Casey handed the baby through the hole on the wall. He heard Fidell's soft gasp as she received the baby, followed with a confirmation that she got a weak pulse.

"Incoming!" Casey yelled. Fernandez received the backboard. As he climbed behind the backboard, he saw another paramedic took the baby away and Fidell and Fernandez started working on Grissom immediately.

"Pulse is weak," said Fidell. "We're taking him to Med. In what position was he found?" asked Fidell.

"On his front, under a big piece of concrete," said Casey. "Everyone's out, Chief!" He walked to Boden after Fidell and Fernandez took Grissom to Ambulance 99.

"Alright, hit the fire!" yelled Boden, knowing that with the amount of time taken to rescue Grissom, Severide, and the babies, it was a miracle that the fire hadn't eaten the whole building. They delayed at least 15 minutes, and most of the ground and first floor had collapsed.

"Casey, we're going to Med. Severide's unconscious, you should come," said Brett. Casey looked at Boden who nodded solemnly. He is Severide's medical proxy, meaning he would be making decision on Severide's behalf if Severide wasn't able to make his own decision.

"Thanks, Chief," Casey climbed to the ambulance. Brett closed the door and ran to the driver's seat. Severide was hooked to oxygen.

"How's the Commissioner? The other baby?" asked Violet.

"Baby's alive, weak pulse. Grissom too," said Casey.

"Hope they're okay," said Violet. Casey looked down and pressed his fingers on Severide's wrist to check the pulse. "Uh… I've been here not too long but have taken him to hospital a couple times. Is this just his thing?"

"Yeah. Totally his thing. Even when he went to the hospital voluntary, there was a bombing in Med. Of course, he tackled the bomber," said Casey.

"Ah, I remember that. I was still in school, we watched the news," said Violet. Severide stirred.

"Hey, Kelly," Casey held Severide's head gingerly. "You just saved me from overhaul."

"Griss," croaked Severide, then coughed. He started coughing and choking. Casey looked at Violet.

"Brett, don't move lane or you're gonna have three injured people," said Violet. "Help me tilt the stretcher, Captain," she said, pulling the backboard so Severide were lifted to the side. "Just spit it out, Lieutenant. It's fine. Let it out," she encouraged. Severide coughed and spitted on the floor. Once Severide was back flat again, Violet wiped his mouth, then wiped the floor.

"Sorry," rasped Severide.

"It's alright, you need to get rid of the dust you inhaled," said Violet. Casey held Severide's shoulder and casted a prayer.

---

Before they arrived to the ER, Fernandez contacted Brett asking to go first because Grissom's injury was more severe and he was still unconscious. Severide was rolled in behind Grissom to an already busy ER with some victims from the fire. The moment Casey entered the room in which Severide was treated, he was told firmly to wait outside, even though he played the medical proxy card.

"Oh Laura," Violet rushed to her former partner when she saw Fidell was crying after she got back from ER. "What is it?" she rushed to Fidell who sat in the waiting room, with Fernandez sitting beside her.

"I broke a bone," cried Fidell. "He stopped breathing on the way, I gave CPR. And I heard a crack," cried Fidell. Violet pulled her into a hug.

"Well, it was a CPR. It's a broken rib or a stopping heart," said Violet. "It's fine, Lo. Broken rib isn't fatal. He will have trouble moving in the following weeks, and voila. You're good."

"It's the CFD Commissioner, Violet," said Fidell.

"And you saved his life," said Violet firmly. "Come on, it's okay," she rocked Fidell slowly. Casey slipped back into the treatment room.

"So, how's he doing, Will?" asked Casey as he watched dr. Will Halstead reading the x-ray machine.

"No broken bones, no internal injuries, no concussion… Clear lungs, although he threw up the dust he inhaled a minute ago. Black mucus. You must have one hell of a lucky charm, Kelly," commented Will.

"Just nine lives, Will," said Casey. "Although it's more like 20 now."

"I bet so," said Will.

"Grissom," said Severide.

"He's here somewhere," said Casey.

"He saved me," whispered Severide, attempting to take off the oxygen mask Will put over his nose. Casey swatted his hand lightly.

"He was under a huge piece of concrete," said Casey. "You're lucky."

"No, he pushed me," said Severide, followed by some coughs. Casey just nodded, but the dread washed over him when he realised that Severide could very well be the one under the slab of concrete.

"I see," said Casey.

"Casey, ask for information on Grissom," pleaded Severide. Will poked his head outside of the room.

"He's taken to surgery, the hybrid OR is on," said Will. "Can't give you information that we don't have. I'll give some med for the breathing, take it if you feel discomfort. Drink a lot of warm water today. Trini will bring you towel to clean up, then you can go. Casey, at least make sure he doesn't use up all his lives at once."

"What can I say, Will, he's magnet for trouble," said Casey before Will stepped out of the room. He squeezed Severide's shoulder, trying to contain his own emotion about Severide's another brush of death.

"The babies?" asked Severide.

"Alive," said Casey. Severide looked like he was about to say something, but went into a coughing fit. Casey slipped his hand behind Severide's back and rubbed his back. When Nurse Trini entered the room, he retracted. "I'll wait in the waiting room," he said before walking there.

"How's Severide?" asked Brett. She had moved to sit beside Violet, who was still holding hands with Fidell.

"Not even a scratch. Dr. Halstead said clean up, med as a precaution, and good to go," said Casey.

"Wow, it's a miracle," said Violet. "I was thinking at least a concussion."

"That's Severide. Lucky as hell," said Casey, still shivering when he thought about Grissom who was under a slab of concrete. He glanced at Fidell.

"Hey," said dr. Choi who walked to the vending machine.

"Hey, doc," said Violet.

"Hey, Fidell. Good job with the CPR," said dr. Choi, patting Fidell on the shoulder.

"I broke a rib, doc," said Fidell.

"Doesn't really matter. There are other things Rhodes are more worried about," said dr. Choi.

"Which is?" asked Violet.

"Internal injuries. His stomach was filled with blood. They are doing surgery to stop the bleeding. A broken rib is none of their concern. If any, you kept him alive with CPR," said dr. Choi. Violet hugged Fidell.

"See, you did good," she said.

"I think only you can do CPR in the back of the ambulance," said Fidell.

"Ah yeah, you two have that in common. You don't like CPR," said Violet, glancing to Brett.

"Not in a moving car with you driving," said Brett.

"Hey!" protested Violet.

"That's quite true," nodded Fidell. "You almost gave me concussion once because you braked without warning!"

"It was an emergency," defended Violet weakly. Fidell giggled.

"We're waiting for Severide?" asked Brett.

"You have to be back on call?" asked Casey. "I'll stay here with Severide."

"Yeah, all three hospitals were swarmed with victims from the fire too," said Brett.

"A minute, Brett?" asked Violet, then ran to the ER to go the hospital lobby. She purchased a cookie from the coffee shop. As she walked back through the ER, she met Severide who wandered out from his room. "Lieutenant, I'm sure dr. Halstead won't appreciate if his patient is missing from the bed."

"Ah, I'm okay," said Severide.

"She's right, I'd be pissed. Although, I was about to discharge you. Here's your discharge form. Here's your med. Take it if you feel discomfort with your breathing. Your lungs are clear, and safe to say you've coughed up the dust you inhaled, so it's only a precaution. It's over the counter med so you don't need to return it if not needed. Drink a lot of warm liquid to clear your nose. Mikami, take his oxygen, heart rate, and lung sound every hour in the next three to four hours," said Will.

"Okay," said Violet.

"If you feel any discomfort with your breathing or dizzy, tell her immediately. Don't return as a patient, Kelly. It's been too often, you and Jay could get a premium membership," said Will. "Before you ask, no information on the Commissioner."

"Thanks, Will," said Severide.

"Come on, we're about to return to the firehouse," said Violet. They walked to the waiting room.

"How are you doing?" asked Brett.

"Back on shift," said Severide.

"Will cleared you?" asked Casey. Severide glanced to Violet, letting her answer the question.

"Yes, he did. Vital check every hour and report immediately in case of discomfort or dizziness," said Violet.

"Let's go back, then," said Brett.

"Here, sugar boost," Violet gave the cookie she brought to Laura.

"Thanks," said Laura. "Come on, Fernandez," she said after giving Violet a hug. They walked to the ambulance bay together.

"See you tomorrow," said Violet before they entered their respective ambulances. Casey and Severide climbed into the back.

"What is tomorrow?" said Brett.

"Ah, we're going to gym together if it's a slow shift, or just lunch if it's a busy shift," said Violet.

"And you just jinxed it," said Brett. "She started talking to me again, huh."

"I think she's happy with this partner. And he's cute," giggled Violet. "I think this one will stick around."

"Because he's cute? I think she has higher standard."

"He's also capable. I was nearby in triage earlier. Compared to the last two she kicked out," shrugged Violet.

"She needs to make up her mind. Chief Hatcher might have her on his good side, but Boden's patience is thinning out," chimed Casey.

"Then don't let her be more than partner with him. It's gonna be complicated," said Brett.

"Learned it the hard way, Brett?" asked Severide.

"Oh come on, pot, kettle, black," said Brett. Violet's eyes budged out of their sockets.

"You? Who?" asked Violet. Casey and Severide snickered in the back.

"I'll send you back to Med, Severide," grunted Brett.

"Who?"

"No one."

"So, anyone in 51 hasn't dated anyone in 51?" asked Violet.

"Well, don't tell anyone, but Capp and Sullivan are secretly dating," said Severide. They laughed.

"Who?"

"Violet, not now!"

"Who?"

"Ugh, anyone else would've threatened to send you back to 20," grunted Brett.

"No you won't. Who, Brett?"

---

After showering and calling Leone to talk about the report, Casey called Maggie at Med to ask about Grisson. He knew he couldn't ask specifics, so he asked to talk to dr. Rhodes. When he got asked to leave a message instead, he knew that the surgery was still ongoing. He entered Severide's quarter, sat on the foot of the bed and patted Severide's legs. Severide glanced at him from his position laying on the bed.

"What?"

"Glad you're okay," said Casey softly. "How are you feeling?"

"Anxious, waiting for news on Grissom," said Severide. "Do you think the surgery finished already?" asked Severide. He sat and faced Casey.

"No, I just called Med," said Casey. Severide looked disappointed. "It's a surgery, Kelly. You shower longer than that," jabbed Casey. "Why did you go back? He asked you?"

"No, he didn't even say there are babies inside. He just ran past me, and I… if he ran inside when everyone ran out, then it's important. He's sneaky as a white shirt… but he's a great firefighter," said Severide.

"I know," said Casey. "You got really lucky, though. You came out intact…"

"Yeah, suppose I am," said Severide.

"Anyway, about the fire. Two bodies were found in the third floor, but the people who lived there all said everyone was accounted for. Not only that, drugs were found near the bodies."

"Unlucky drug dealers?" asked Severide. "Shouldn't we go back to the scene?"

"They're maybe almost done with overhaul, Truck 68 already returned to quarter," said Casey. "Use the shower before they do," said Casey.

"Yeah," said Severide. Casey clapped him on the leg before leaving him to write report on the first call. He was halfway through it when Stella knocked on his door.

"Casey, two bodies were found hidden in a locked cabinet in the third floor, with what looked to be drugs with them. Police were called and Detective Dawson took pictures of the scene. I found the bodies, I'll write my report," said Stella.

"Thanks," nodded Casey. "Everyone else is accounted for?"

"Yeah, by the time we finished overhaul, the kids were already picked up by their parents or sent to hospital. The last two babies were taken to hospital. People lived there were all accounted for too," said Stella. She glanced to Severide's quarter. "How's…"

"Not a scratch. Got really lucky," said Casey. Stella looked relieved. "Grissom, on the other hand… not looking good. Internal injury. He was taken to surgery immediately."

"Ugh," Stella grimaced. "How's Kelly taking it?"

"Hard. Grissom pushed him when the ceiling fell. We found Grissom under a huge piece of concrete," said Casey. He was sure that the scene would appear once or twice behind his eyelids as he closed his eyes at night, how Severide was supposed to be crushed by concrete.

"I see. You're okay?" asked Stella. She used to be a regular in the loft, witnessing the fallout of Casey's marriage more than the rest of the firehouse. She had become better friends with Casey, even after she broke up with Severide. Casey knew how hard the break up was for Severide, and how hard it was for Stella that she wasn't able to take care of Severide after Benny's death. On the contrary, Stella understood the brotherly love between the two boys that went all the way back to the academy.

"Yeah. Not my first time seeing Kelly's rodeo with death," shrugged Casey. He thought for a bit. "Take a look at him if you want. He might need it."

"No, I don't think it'd do us good," said Stella. "I just need to know if he's okay."

"He's not," said Casey firmly. "Not in a good place with Grissom last I know."

"Captain," Violet appeared out of nowhere. "I just called Maggie. The victims from the morning call—the burning car—are both stable. The driver got bypass heart surgery and the other, the one with broken legs—he just got out of surgery. They saved the legs, although he's not gonna walk again in the near future, but they're very hopeful."

"Thanks for the information. You asked about the Commissioner?" asked Casey.

"That's why I called Maggie. I'll take oxygen level, heart rate, and lung sound in exchange for information," she grinned, glanced to Severide's quarter.

"Wow, you're sly. So, how's Grissom?" asked Stella. "Do I have to get mine checked to ask?"

"Or you want to take his?" asked Violet innocently. Stella rolled her eyes while Casey snickered. "They stopped the first surgery because he's too unstable," said Violet. "They took his spleen, kidney, and liver. They're scheduling another surgery when he's stable."

"Damn," said Stella.

"Yeah. Maggie said there's hope though. He pulled through the first surgery," said Violet. "Okay, wish me luck."

"Good luck," offered Stella.

"Lieutenant," Violet knocked on Severide's door. Severide was writing report. "I come for oxygen and lung check-up." She waved an oximeter and stethoscope. Severide didn't comment as she listened to his lung sound. "Lung sound is good. Oxygen is at 96 percent. I'll report to Dr. Halstead and come back an hour from now."

"Okay," said Severide.

"I also come with information," said Violet. "The Commissioner is out of surgery. Some of his organs are damaged, they took out his liver, kidney, and spleen. He needs another surgery shortly as soon as he is stable."

"It's bad?" asked Severide.

"Not gonna lie, it's gonna be tough. But he pulled through the first surgery, that's good news. Small victory," smiled Violet.

"Thanks," said Severide.

"Another information is that Ritter and I made pulled pork sandwich for lunch, and we're very proud of it. If anyone doesn't eat, I'll feed it through IV," said Violet.

"Alright, sold. Be there in a few," said Severide. Violet grinned and left to store the equipment in the ambulance. Severide walked to Casey's quarter and plopped on the bed because Casey was on the phone. "You're not having lunch?" he asked as Casey ended the call.

"Ah, yeah. Come on," said Casey. "That was Leone. She warmed up, what a relieve."

"Who would have guessed, a woman that you finally figure out: Leone," said Severide. "Come on, lunch. Mikami threatened to feed me through IV."

"And a woman you feared: Mikami. At least, Leone is really scary," laughed Casey. "That you fear?" He pointed at Violet who was assembling the sandwiches.

"You heard about Grissom?" asked Severide as they entered the common room.

"Yeah. Hope he's hanging in there," said Casey. "Gallo," he called. Gallo looked up from his sandwich. "Just talked to Leone. Good job with the kids, she said the kids looked like they want to go through another fire."

"Thank you, Captain," Gallo beamed.

"Yeah, 18 kids at once, not a lot can do that," said Stella. "How did you do that?"

"I told them we're playing caterpillar," grinned Gallo. "Told them to sing too. It made them inhale more smoke, but it kept their steps in rhythm."

"Good idea," Casey clapped Gallo on the shoulder.

---

"Attention," Boden stepped into the common room just after everyone finished their meals. His voice was grim. The room became quiet. "Commissioner Grissom died in Med 15 minutes ago from internal injuries."

The atmosphere in the room changed from tense to grief. Most of them weren't big fans of the Commissioner, but he was one of the real firefighters among the white shirts. On the few occasions when he got to go to scenes, he never hesitated to get his hands dirty. Ultimately, he died doing the thing he loved the most—fighting fires—and what he vowed Benny Severide he'd do—protecting Benny's son.

Severide stumbled to the briefing room, sitting on one of the tables. He pressed his palms against his face, still remembering how he told the Commissioner no when he offered—more like pushed—him to lead a firehouse as a chief, using leapfrogging Casey as a bait. It was tempting for five seconds before he rejected the offer, worried about the trade-off the older man might ask. Severide snorted when he realised what his dad might say about Grissom died shortly after himself. Casey tentatively approached him.

"Sorry, Kelly," offered Casey gently while placing a hand on his back. He knew that despite Severide's resistance towards Grissom, Grissom being Benny's best friend means something to Severide. Severide was shaking hard under his touch, and he put his other hand on Severide's shoulder, squeezing it.

"Hey," whispered Casey, now crouching down to look at Severide's face and touched his forehead. His face was pale and his skin was clammy. Casey pulled him in a hug so Severide's face rested on his chest, not caring that everyone could see them through the window. Usually, Severide hated looking weak in front of the others, but he surely didn't care for once. When Severide latched on to him tightly and started sobbing, he saw from the corner of his eyes Herrmann shooing everyone out of the common room. Boden walked in.

"Casey, I'm going to Headquarter now, on Deputy Commissioner's request. Hold the fort for a while," said Boden. Casey nodded. "Sorry, Kelly." Boden squeezed Severide's shoulder before he left the room.

"Kelly, hey, it's okay," Casey soothed him, rubbing his hair and back. "I'm so sorry, Kelly. Sorry you lost him too." The wound from Benny Severide's death hadn't even healed, it's only a couple weeks since Severide stopped waking up in the middle of the night after Benny's death. After a while, the sobs died down and only a few sniffles were left. Casey felt a spot on his polo had gotten damp from the tears. He waited until Severide let go of him.

"Sorry," whispered Severide.

"It's alright," said Casey.

"He died saving me, Casey. He died a hero," said Severide. Casey nodded, feeling shiver ran through him. If Grissom didn't push Severide out of the way…

"Yes, you, and the babies. At the end of the day, he's a firefighter, not just a white shirt," said Casey.

"I don't feel good," Severide stumbled as he jumped off the table. Casey grabbed his arm.

"Lie down for a bit, I'll tell Cruz to substitute you," said Casey. He took out his phone and texted Cruz. They both froze at the sound of the alarm.

"Ambulance 61, person injured."

"Come on," Casey herded Severide to his own quarter so that he could keep an eye on Severide. "Go lie down." After being a witness to Severide's breakdowns after Benny's death, Casey knew what to do like the back of his hand. He helped Severide to lie down on the bunk, closed the blinds in his quarter, then sat on the side of the bed.

"You need anything?" asked Casey.

"Feel sick," said Severide. "No, stay," he held Casey's arm just before Casey stood to get some drink and cold towel.

"Okay, how can I help?" asked Casey.

"Don't think I can go on calls," said Severide.

"Of course, yeah. But you're staying here until I can take you home," said Casey. "As soon as Boden's back, I'll drive you home." He grabbed his report and paper, working on the morning accident's report while staying close so Severide could feel his presence.

"My fault everyone died," said Severide.

"What?"

"Yelled at Benny. He died. Grissom. Died too," Severide stared at the ceiling.

"I'm still here," said Casey.

"Haven't yelled at you lately," said Severide.

"Kelly, I'm sure it doesn't work like that," Casey tapped Severide's shoulder to get his attention. "Who dies and who doesn't have nothing to do with whom you yelled to. It's just a coincidence."

"Don't let me yell at you. At anyone. Next time Cruz annoys me, duct tape my big mouth," said Severide.

"Gladly. Still, you have nothing to do with it," said Casey. He saw tears fell from Severide's eyes, and he felt a tug on his heartstring. Severide had cried more often in the past few weeks compared to the whole time he knew him. He pulled Severide to sit and enveloped him in a hug, feeling Severide grabbed a fistful of his jacket as he sobbed.

---

"Truck 81, household accident."

"Sorry, Kelly," Casey said apologetically, fighting Severide's hand to let go of him. "Don't go anywhere." When Casey ran to the apparatus floor, everyone ran in from the outside. He gave Herrmann a nod of appreciation, knowing that he had been running drill outside to keep them away from the common room or bunk room. As they entered the rig, he caught Stella stole a look at him with questioning look.

"Focus on the call," he said. Stella nodded and waved to Brett and Violet who just arrived back from the call.

"Don't you have to check oxygen level and lung sound?" asked Brett.

"Ah, yes," Violet grabbed a stethoscope and oximeter from the jump bag. She peeked to Severide's quarter and saw the quarter empty, as well as the common room and apparatus floor. She found Brett back in the ambulance. "I couldn't find him."

"In his quarter?" asked Brett.

"No. Maybe he went home?" asked Violet. Brett hopped off from the ambulance and walked across the front of the firehouse.

"Nope, that's his car," said Brett. "No way he's gone like that," she said as they walked back to the firehouse. She pointed to Casey's quarter which curtains were closed. "There you go."

"Ah, a sleepover," commented Violet. Brett chuckled.

"Good luck," she whispered before walking away. Violet took a deep breath and knocked on the door.

"Yeah," Severide answered. She pushed the door and saw Severide sitting on the bunk. The grief and guilt were clear on his face, so did the streak of tears. Violet looked away when Severide wiped his tears and composed himself. She couldn't bear to see the amount of pain, more so in a person she and the whole firehouse respected.

"Sorry, didn't mean to bother you, but dr. Halstead texted me," said Violet apologetically.

"It's alright," said Severide, grabbing the oximeter from Violet. Violet pressed her fingers to Severide's neck.

"Rapid heart rate," she commented, although it was clear that it was caused by the crying session and not the suspected injury. "Deep breath, calm down," she ran her hand in circles across Severide's back. "We'll retry in a bit after your breathing is under control. Lung sounds clear, though," said Violet after glancing at the oximeter. Severide nodded, trying to calm himself down.

"I'm sorry about the Commissioner. I heard you're related to him," said Violet.

"Related? No. He's my dad's buddy. Didn't have kid, he thought I'd follow in his footsteps climbing the rank," said Severide.

"Ah," said Violet. "That's why you followed him."

"I didn't. I'm not after rank. I won't be here otherwise," said Severide.

"No, I mean in the fire. You went after him. Captain Delaney said so," said Violet.

"Oh. He's one of few people I'd follow blindly in a fire," said Severide.

"Well, he's closer than family, then, if you trust him that much. Sorry for your loss," said Violet.

"Thanks," said Severide.

"Anything we can do?" asked Violet.

"We?"

"Well, 'we' depends. If you need sugar, Brett and I have ice cream. And doughnuts. If you need entertainment, distraction, I'll send Dumb and Dumber in, as soon as Dumber gets back from call."

"They know you call them that?" asked Severide.

"Yeah. They stopped arguing and just embraced it," said Violet. "They debated who is Dumb and who is Dumber, or whether they are Banana in Pyjamas. You know, the yellow banana with striped pyjamas." Severide chuckled.

"Nah, I'll pass," said Severide. Violet pressed her fingers to Severide's neck.

"Normal heart rate. Perfect. I'll let dr. Halstead know," she grinned.

"Yeah, thanks. And thanks for… that was entertaining," said Severide.

"What? That?" asked Violet. She chuckled. "I'm the serious one."

"You three should be Dumb, Dumber, and Dumbest," Severide couldn't help but mocking her.

"Oh, offended. However, I need to text dr. Halstead. If there's anything you need, beside entertainment, just ask," said Violet as she backed away to the door, feeling satisfied that she managed to elicit a smile out of the grieving Lieutenant. Severide nodded, still smiling in disbelief that their last three recruits can make a stand-up comedy performance of their own.

---

"Tuesday, go!" whispered Violet from behind the refrigerator, where she had been playing with Tuesday for the last couple of minutes. Ritter who brought Tuesday in gladly let her took over the dalmatians. Violet rolled the ball they were playing with across the room. The ball stopped under Severide's chair who came out of his hiding place in Casey's quarter to read magazine.

"Good aim," Ritter mouthed at Violet. "The bowling dates were not wasted," he smirked, knowing Gallo took Violet to a bowling alley a couple of times when they were dating. He guessed that it's a competitive couple thing that he didn't understand, as he and Eric prefer going to movies instead of bowling alley and mini golf course.

"Of course not, they were trainings," said Violet. They watched Tuesday bit the ball and wagged her tail as she looked at Severide. Severide glanced at Tuesday, unsure what to do. Violet opened the refrigerator to hide herself and Ritter.

"Alright, you wanna play," Severide took the ball from her mouth and threw it across the room. Tuesday ran for the ball and gave it to Severide. After three rounds, she jumped to Severide's lap and cosied herself there. Ritter glanced at Violet who gave him a triumphant smile.

When truck returned to the firehouse, it was almost dark. Casey cursed the dark and cold winter as he went to his quarter and found that Severide wasn't there. He wasn't in his own quarter either, so Casey went to Boden's office to put his report, and to the common room to find a tray of muffin. He looked around to see who owned the muffins.

"Go ahead, Violet made it," said Brett. She glanced to the briefing room, and Casey followed her gaze. Severide was there, playing catch with Tuesday.

"Ritter and Violet somehow latched Tuesday to Severide. He's been playing with her for at least half an hour," said Brett. Violet came with a tube of ointment as Casey bit into a muffin. "Found it? Here, I'll help," said Brett to Violet. Violet took the first aid kit in the common room and sat beside Brett.

"What is it?" asked Casey.

"Burned my hand on the muffin tray," said Violet. Casey saw a small scar on her hand.

"Good job," Casey pointed to the next room. Violet smiled triumphantly.

"Cure for a broken heart: pet or kid," she said.

"That's why you're babysitting? Who broke your heart?" asked Brett. Violet pouted at her. "Kidding, you're still gonna do all the reports right?"

"Yeah, yeah. I'm cheap if it includes doughnuts," said Violet.

"I wish Mouch is that cheap. This morning fire's report…" said Casey.

"Ah, no one wants to do joint call report. Even Captain Leone hates it. And you know she's never behind on reports. Laura's gonna have a hard time writing the Commissioner's report," said Violet. "Thank God the broken rib was not fatal in the cause of death. If it punctured the lung…"

"His lungs were intact?" asked Brett.

"Yeah. It's his lower organs that were ruined," said Violet. "From what I heard from Laura, the doctors managed to stop the bleeding, but he lost a lot of blood even with pints of transfusion, and his remaining organs failed."

"How's Fidell doing?" asked Brett.

"I called her earlier. She was shaken by the Commissioner's death. Although not on transport, but he coded in the ambo," said Violet. "My first death case, a firefighter of 20, I cried the whole shift in Captain Leone's quarter. Hope Laura's handling it better."

"If you want, we can stop by when we fill our fuel to see her. I'll raid their cabinet while you see her," said Brett.

"Thanks, but I think she'll be fine. Captain Leone's there, and the new partner too. I'll see her tomorrow," said Violet. Gallo came in and grabbed a muffin.

"What happened to your hand?" he asked when he saw Violet's bandaged hand.

"Don't talk with your mouth full," hissed Violet. Gallo rolled his eyes exasperated and the other three chuckled. "Held the muffin tray straight out of the oven."

"That's why you should listen in the academy, always put your gloves on," said Gallo. "I'll do dinner so you don't burn your other hand."

"Ah, my hero," said Violet with a mocking tone. Brett giggled. "So I can work on the reports I got paid with doughnuts for," Violet said.

"The service for the Commissioner will be tomorrow. Funeral's on Saturday," said Casey. "I'll see if Kelly knows."

"Don't. Let him play with Tuesday for a bit, there'll be time to talk about… the bad stuff," said Violet. "It's nice seeing that, after everything that had happened." She pointed to the briefing room at Severide who was laughing when Tuesday crashed to him to grab the ball. She was a bit wary of Severide at first, since he unknowingly yelled at her the first few weeks she was in 51. However, today after she witnessed Severide cried not once, but twice, her wariness disappeared completely, leaving sympathy and pity.

"I agree," said Brett.

"Alright. Let's see until when Tuesday has the energy. Or Severide has," said Casey then left the common room after grabbing another muffin. He saw Stella standing in front of the window to the briefing room, remembering a similar situation after the couple's break up when Severide was the one watching Stella training Tuesday. "Here," he handed her the muffin.

"Thanks, not hungry," said Stella. "How's Kelly doing?"

"I think the storm will come later," said Casey. "Don't stalk him here. Go in, talk to him."

"No. That's his happy face. I don't want to get mixed up again. Gotta protect him, and myself," said Stella.

"I get it, but a few months ago, he stood here, watching you training Tuesday. Just saying," said Casey. Stella faced him. Her stoic expression crumbled.

"Breaking up with him was hard. Not gonna put myself through it again. I don't know how it was for him, nor do I wanna know, but it's better like this," said Stella. Casey guided her gently to the window of the common room. Inside, Brett, Violet, and Gallo were chatting. It seemed that Gallo was comparing Violet's muffin to something on his phone.

"It's better like that. You can always be a friend to him. Learn from the littles," Casey pointed to them. "You were good as friends. You don't have to jump into bed with him." Stella took a deep breath and nodded. "Now, help me set up course for night drill?"

"Of course," said Stella, biting into the muffin as she followed Casey out of the firehouse.

---

Boden returned to the firehouse at 9 pm just after Truck's night drill was done, and by that time, Severide was already asleep in Casey's quarter that Casey almost suspected that Violet, Ritter, or Gallo who were in charge of dinner put sleeping pills on his food. However, he remembered that Severide played with Tuesday for at least an hour. He knocked on Boden's door ten minutes after the Chief arrived back.

"Chief," he entered the room. "I was about to ask to send Severide home, but he is sleeping now so I don't think that's needed anymore."

"You can send anyone home, Captain, you know that," said Boden.

"Send as in drive him home, that's why I waited for you," said Casey.

"Oh. Well, it was busy. The city and CFD launched a full investigation into the building, the owner, and it's already getting more complicated. Meanwhile, CFD got trouble being in contact with the family. No kid, an ex-wife who never heard from him for 10 years. His brother is in Denver, he's flying in now. So… yeah. How's Severide doing?"

"Not good. Then he somehow took Tuesday to the briefing room, played for an hour. Both the man and the dog are down," he chuckled remembering how poor Ritter had to peel Tuesday from Severide and carried her to her cage.

"Alright. Small relief, both the babies Grissom and Severide went in for were stable. One has a longer recovery ahead of her, but doctors are optimistic," said Boden.

"The price to pay," commented Casey.

"Yeah. You keep an eye on him, Casey. After Benny, then this," said Boden.

"Of course," said Casey.

---

"Squad 3, Truck 81, Ambulance 61, trapped civilians. Repeat, trapped civilians."

Casey nearly crashed into the wall because Severide's quarter was mirroring his. He didn't have the heart to wake Severide up and ask him to move to his own quarter, so he retreated to Severide's quarter after he was done with his reports and slept there.

As they arrived on the scene, Casey walked to a woman standing outside her house.

"What is it, mam?"

"My husband. He's trapped in the bathroom, I couldn't open the door," said the woman. "It was weighed with something from the inside. I think he fell and his body weighed against the door."

"Cruz, Capp, grab the saw!" said Severide. Casey was puzzled when he saw Severide who said that he wouldn't join calls.

"Come on, 81," said Casey. They followed the woman to the bathroom door, and Casey tried the doorknob. "It's propped up on the top. Not on the bottom," he said.

"We'll cut the door here," Severide made a line with his hand.

"Brett, Mikami, ready," said Casey.

"How thick is this door really?" grunted Cruz.

"You hit something that isn't wood," said Severide.

"Hey," Violet pointed to a ventilation hole above the door.

"Come on," Gallo latched his palms. Violet held on to Gallo's shoulders and stepped on his hands. They were far from the door, but once Violet was being lifted, she could see straight through the vent. She gasped.

"What is it?" asked Casey.

"He's hanging from the ceiling," said Violet. She jumped down and Gallo clapped her shoulder. The woman cried. Stella restrained her.

"Cruz! Faster!" said Severide. "Move here, cut down here!" He felt the door and moved the line further down. It would be tight for anyone to enter through the hole.

"Kidd, you and me. Gallo, get the ladder," said Casey. Once squad finished cutting the door, Stella crawled through the hole. She looked to a man hanging from the ceiling, a stool was below his feet. "Kidd, can you open the door?"

"Negative," said Stella, seeing that the door was patched shut with iron plates. Casey crawled inside after her.

"Let's get him down," said Casey.

"Need us to come in?" asked Brett.

"Yes, just one. It's tight in here," said Casey as he took a look at the rope which was tied to the toilet and nailed to the ceiling.

"Violet's coming in," said Brett. Violet crawled through the hole, then received the jump bag from Brett. She touched the victim's hands and feet and felt his pulse.

"Ladder's coming," said Gallo.

"Cancel the ladder. He's dead. Been for three hours at least, the body is stiff," she said.

"Damn," cursed Stella.

"Call the police, guys," said Casey. "We'll hand the scene as is to the police."

"So we don't open the door and just hope that the officers coming fit in there?" asked Violet, pointing to the hole. It was narrow that Casey couldn't see Cruz or Tony entering, even for him it was quite tight.

"Let's see what they want," said Casey. Stella's eyes were fixed on the victim and she paled. Casey grabbed her arm when she swayed.

"Don't look," whispered Violet, gently guiding Stella to sit on the closed toilet lid and she stood in front of Stella, shielding her from looking at the body. "Keep your eyes on the hole in the door. Captain," she called, and silently told Casey to take her place. Violet took the temperature of the body.

"You two can get out, I'll wait here," said Casey. He squeezed Stella's shoulder.

"No, it's okay," said Stella.

"Too early to tell, but I think he's been dead three to four hours," said Violet.

"The officers are here," said Severide.

"Officer Macmillus, 21st District. I have a partner here, Officer Yen, interviewing the wife," said one of the officers, poking his head below the door. He looked really young.

"Captain Casey, Firehouse 51. That's the victim, the door is bolted shut with an iron plate. He was already dead," said Casey.

"How did you know he was dead?" asked the officer.

"Oh, we asked him, he said so," said Violet.

"Sorry?"

"He's not breathing, no pulse, his temperature was lower than humanly possible, and he's already in rigor mortis, which only happens when someone's dead because there's no blood flow," answered Violet with attitude. "Or you want to check for yourself, officers?" she asked nicely.

"We're good, sorry," said the officer, looking uncomfortable.

"You want us to open the door or leave it as is?" asked Casey.

"Uh, we do need to take photos of the scene, but we have to wait for our team because we are… we can't go in," said the officer.

"Alright. We'll leave through the hole again," said Casey. They crawled out. Stella came out first, the Gallo pulled Violet up.

"Is it bad?" asked Gallo in a low voice.

"The expression… yeah. You don't need to see it," said Violet. Gallo smiled weakly and patting Violet's back before pulling Casey standing.

"You declared time of death?" asked the officer to Violet.

"I'm not a doctor, I can't call time of death. However, based on the rigor mortis and temperature, I think he has been dead for three to four hours," said Violet.

"Then who can confirm it?" asked the officer.

"After you finish processing the scene, you can call for ambulance to bring the body to the hospital. When you bring him to the hospital, the doctor will call time of death. He will then be taken to the morgue, and the coroner will tell you the estimated time and cause of death based on rigor mortis and autopsy," said Violet patiently. "Those reports can then be submitted to Sergeant Platt, who will decide if it needs further investigation." Everyone had to hide their smiles and pretended that they weren't listening, while in reality they were enjoying the 2 am entertainment.

"Got it. I'll ask for… um… excuse me," said the officer. Gallo started to silently clap his hands, followed by the others. Even Casey smirked seeing the sassiness of the newest member of 51.

"No wonder Trudy became more and more impatient these days," said Mouch.

"What an attitude at 3 am," commented Cruz.

"Can't say I'm not proud," said Brett.

"I can handle those questions at day, not at night," said Violet.

"Ambulance 61, are you done with the call?"

"Yes, we are done," said Brett to the radio.

"Alright, routing you to two blocks away." Violet and Brett ran to the ambulance and sped off.

"How do you know you're alive, Gallo?" asked Capp as they walked out.

"That… if I said that to the officer, I'd end up with a report," commented Mouch.

"No, you won't. Their sergeant is your wife, you can pretty much say anything to any cop in this area," said Cruz. Gallo who passed them with the ladder chuckled.

"Kidd," Gallo called to Stella after storing the ladder. "You okay?" he asked to Stella who stood with a blank face near the rig. Stella's face was pale and she was breathing hard. Gallo touched her back gingerly.

"Yeah," said Stella automatically. "Come on, let's go," she pressed her palms to her face before climbing to the driver's side. She leaned on the headrest and closed her eyes while waiting for Casey who was talking to the police. This suicide case unsettled her. There was something about the dead body that made her felt physically sick. Gallo seemed to understand as he shoved a water bottle to her hand.

"They had a fight, the woman refused to come home after work, preferring to stay at her friend's. After not hearing from him for hours, she came back and found the door locked," said Casey as he entered the rig.

"Just because of a fight?" asked Gallo.

"His best friend overdosed last month, now in coma. He got let go from the job, they are having a financial problem too," said Casey. "She said he looked strong that she didn't think much of it, then the fight happened."

"We never know what's behind someone's smile, or inside their head. We learned that from Russ," said Mouch. "Hit the strongest person with problems repeatedly, that'd knock them down."

Stella felt chills in her body hearing that. Severide had been knocked down repeatedly—first with the Tyler problem, which was partially her fault. After that, she broke up with him. Before he had time to get back on his feet, Benny died unexpectedly. And now, Grissom died. She not only failed being a friend, but she took part in knocking Severide down.

"Kidd," called Casey. Stella was startled.

"Sorry," she started the engine and drove.

When they arrived at the firehouse, Stella went straight to the bathroom. She felt dirty after crawling on a stranger's bathroom. She took a quick shower and changed her clothes. A wave of nausea hit her again and she slid to the floor.

"Hey, you okay?" asked Violet who just got out of the stall after changing her jacket and pants. "You just changed your clothes because you crawled on someone's bathroom. Don't do it in the firehouse's bathroom," she crouched in front of Stella. Stella stifled a gag, pressing a hand to her mouth. "Are you gonna be sick?"

"Have anything to settle my stomach?" asked Stella. She started feeling nauseous on the scene, and even after the shower, she couldn't get rid of the nausea.

"Yeah. Come on," Violet pulled Stella standing and guided her to the common room. Stella kept pressing her hand to her mouth to stifle another gag, and she concentrated on Violet's hand which was rubbing her back gently. After depositing Stella to half-laying on the sofa, Violet went to the fridge and grabbed a Gatorade. She poured it in a glass of ice cubes and gave it to Stella. "Here. Sip on this. Take a deep breath, slowly," she sat beside Stella and guided her to breathe. Stella felt Violet's fingers on her neck, feeling her pulse. "Deep breath, in, out. There you go," she said gently. After a few rounds and sips, Stella felt her stomach settled slowly.

"Feeling a bit better, thanks," said Stella. "You're really stoic."

"What I can't handle is a victim dying in front of me. He was already dead. But yeah, it threw me off too at first," said Violet. Stella nodded. "You wanna go back to the bunk room?" asked Violet after Stella finished the Gatorade. Stella nodded. "Sleep with your head propped up, you'll feel better," said Violet. "Come on, let's go back." They walked to the bunk room and went to their respective bunks.

---

"Bye, Brett. I hate you," Violet kept hold on Brett's arm as they left the firehouse.

"Enjoy the shift," Brett freed her arm from Violet's hand and blew a kiss. Stella chuckled seeing them.

"If you don't come back with a sugary treat, I'll transfer back to 20," pouted Violet.

"I'll bring you the best macarons I can get," promised Brett.

"Enjoy New York!" said Stella.

"On the day of shift, I'll remind you that I'm with McAuley while you're having fun without me," said Violet, half-sulking.

"Of course. I'll remember that as I eat my way through New York. Don't kill McAuley," said Brett. She went to her car. Violet latched her arm to Stella's.

"How are you holding up? Haven't gotten a chance to ask," said Violet gently. Stella looked at her, asking her to elaborate. "I saw you when Severide was pulled out of the building. Then after we knew that the Commissioner didn't survive. You were worried about him. And the call last night… I know you didn't sleep too," her tone suddenly turned serious, different from a couple seconds ago.

"I don't know. I don't know if, and how, I am going to help him when I took part in giving sucker punches to him," said Stella. "The suicide… the woman would be regretting it for life. I don't want to do or not do something I'll regret."

"Wow, it sounds like an adult problem. I'm not great at giving advice, can I interest you in breakfast? I found the best croissant in town if you're feeling better," said Violet. "Or you can join Fidell and I for pity party at lunch. I'll cook, we'll have ice cream and Netflix."

"I'll take the croissant. The place has coffee?" asked Stella. She hasn't spent a one-on-one time with Violet since her transfer, but she knew Brett saw something in the younger girl that made her fought for the transfer to happen. Stella thought hard to recall how old Violet is, as she is both youthful and also mature. Probably she can learn one or two tips from Violet. After all, Gallo and her had become easy friends after she transferred permanently, despite their breakup. It was no secret that Gallo stupidly suggested marriage to Violet and ended their relationship.

"Free refill. And, the beans are from Java," said Violet. "Come on, I'll drive and drop you back here." She pulled Stella to her car.

---

"Casey, you busy today?" asked Severide as he walked out of his bedroom. Casey whose attention was full on his reports looked at him blankly.

"Huh?"

"You busy today? Grissom's brother called… invited me to private viewing before the memorial service tonight," said Severide. He had been pretty stoic until then, and Casey decided to follow the paramedics' advice to not talk about the 'bad thing' until Severide started to.

"No, only have reports to do, almost done," said Casey. "You want me to come with you?"

"If you want," said Severide. Casey nodded.

"How are you doing, Kelly?" asked Casey softly. "You joined the call… didn't expect that."

"I don't know, it was a reflex," said Severide. "Although I almost fell when I ran, I'm not used to the door being on that side."

"You tell me, I crashed to the wall. You slept in my quarter, I didn't want to wake you up," said Casey.

"I was drained. That dog… that was a good drill, playing with dog," said Severide.

"The littles baited Tuesday to you to distract you," said Casey. Severide chuckled, touched by their concern. After they got the news, he clearly avoided conversation with everyone. He sat in the common room to find distractions, and sure enough, Violet and Ritter chatted non-stop while baking which he found comforting.

"Didn't know that. They didn't say anything, well except Mikami. She took my vitals just after you left, did a bit of stand-up comedy because my heartbeat was rapid. I thought the others were avoiding talking to me," said Severide.

"Oh, that too, though it came from respecting your privacy. Everyone wanted to help in their own way," said Casey. He was a bit surprised when Gallo asked him about whether Severide would prefer enchilada or tomato soup for dinner and actually cooked tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwich.

"You know, I apologised to Grissom's brother," said Severide. "Told him he saved me, and if he would prefer that I don't come. He said, without missing a beat, that's the brother he knows. Always saving people. He said I have to come. Grissom would've wanted it."

"Sounds like Grissom," said Casey. He saw tears escaped Severide's eyes.

"Yesterday I wondered if people would prefer Grissom lived," said Severide. Before Casey opened his mouth, Severide interrupted, "not you, Matt. Other people. At the headquarter. A Commissioner for a Lieutenant? Doesn't sound right."

"Kelly, I'm sure everyone worth the same for the CFD. A fallen firefighter is a fallen firefighter, regardless of rank. The size of the badges in the academy wall are all the same," said Casey.

"I know, silly me. Just… it doesn't sit right with me, to have someone died in my place. I should've been there," said Severide.

"But you're not," said Casey firmly. He tried to contain the chills that had been running through his body whenever he allowed himself to think back to what happened. He could've been preparing a funeral now instead of waiting for his food to be ready in the oven. If Grissom didn't push Severide out of the way, he would be writing his eulogy instead of his reports. "It's not your time. That's what Boden told me when I had the gun pointed at me. Accept it and move on. Okay? Don't let it eat you." Casey walked around the kitchen table and placed his hand on Severide's shoulder. He needed to be assured that Severide is solid and alive, not a fraction of his imagination or a ghost.

"Kelly, okay?" Casey shook Severide's shoulder. Severide nodded. Tears spilled from his eyes. Casey squeezed his shoulder, partially to calm his friend down, and partially for his own benefit.

---

Casey stood behind Severide beside Grissom's casket, keeping a hand on his shoulder. He lost count of how many grateful prayers he had casted since the fire, and he felt guilty because he was grateful that it was Grissom and not Severide.

"Lieutenant Severide," called Sonya, Grissom's secretary. "The Commissioner once told me, in the event of his death, you'll have his notebook. It's not in his will, but written in his notebook. Please come to the headquarter after the funeral to get it."

"Okay," said Severide. He was about to find a seat when he realised that Casey wasn't behind him. He looked around and find Casey near the casket. Casey was holding the edge of the casket, looking down and silently saying a gratitude that Grissom's last moment was spent saving his best friend.

"Casey," Severide walked to him. "What are you doing?"

"No, nothing," said Casey. "Come on." They walked through the aisles and sat in the pew while Grissom's brother's family stayed for the last moment together before the coffin was closed.

"Captain," greeted Gallo who walked with Ritter. He signalled to sit beside Casey. Casey nodded. Gallo sat beside him, followed by Ritter.

"Where's Mikami?" asked Casey, noticing that one-third of the littles were missing.

"Girls' time with Kidd and Fidell," said Gallo.

"Didn't see that coming. Kidd and Fidell?" asked Casey.

"It's Violet, she can put Hitler and Mother Theresa in the same room," said Gallo.

---

The café Violet took Stella to for breakfast was located near Navy Pier, and although the weather was terrible, the view was beautiful. Violet was unusually not chatty, they sat in silence as they ate their croissants and drank coffee.

"Why does you and Fidell need a pity party?" asked Stella after they finished their pastries.

"She gave CPR, broke a rib. Dr. Choi said it didn't do anything bad, it didn't puncture the lung, but it was her first time breaking a rib. She was upset. Then the Commissioner died… the broken rib didn't factor into the cause of death, but still," Violet shrugged. "Me, because I get McAuley next shift. Reminder, I won't be a nice person."

"Yeah, it's hard. First of everything is hard," said Stella.

"Was yesterday your first suicide call?" asked Violet.

"Not really. But, yeah. It was unsettling, the expression of the victim threw me off. I started feeling sick when you sat me down in the bathroom," said Stella. "Can I ask you something?"

"Huh?"

"How come you and Gallo be friends? After everything…"

"First off, won't call it a serious relationship. We just had fun, we connected well, of course he ruined it. He scurried off from me the first week I was at 51, then he warmed up. Turned out, he's nice as friends," said Violet.

"I thought you transferred because of him," teased Stella.

"Nope. I was meritiously promoted to PIC because I got full score in three consecutive exams and my track record, also my partner resigned and there was no one else in the pool. But I don't have a lot of field experience. Therefore, Ambulance 99 weren't given a lot of crucial cases. The more various cases go to the more experienced PIC, Brett, because we overlapped. So, if I want to gain experience, 51 is the place to be," said Violet. "Although, seeing Gallo flustered the first few shifts didn't hurt."

"I don't think I've ever seen him cleaning the truck that pristine, he nearly didn't go to the common room on your first shift," laughed Stella.

"Yeah, it was funny," said Violet. "Prefer him as friends, though. Which is not the road you take with Severide, I see?"

"No, I can't. Last time we were friends, it went too far and I put myself through pain. So, I can't go back to being friends this time," said Stella.

"But you're in the same firehouse. Isn't that hard?" asked Violet.

"The hardest. Seeing him cry yesterday, it broke my heart in a way I didn't think possible," said Stella.

"And you couldn't do anything," added Violet. Stella nodded. "Again, because you asked about Gallo… it wasn't a serious relationship, but when Hannah—remember the baby whose car seat wasn't strapped in?" Stella nodded. "When Hannah died, at night I sat in the common room, crying as Gallo held me. Not as a boyfriend, we were way past done. He's great as a friend, don't tell him."

"How did you know that he didn't take it as something more than being friends?" asked Stella.

"Because he allowed me into his Tinder account, and I swiped right on some girls," said Violet. Stella laughed. "I don't know how serious your relationship was, but if you want to be friends, you can create certain boundaries."

"Well, he hadn't proposed marriage, so you can say not that serious," Stella said with a teasing tone. Violet buried her head in her hands.

"Stupid Gallo," she chuckled. Stella laughed.

"Everyone teased him about it, even Casey. And you know he doesn't partake in shenanigans," said Stella. "Anyway, how did you stop thinking he's special between the rest of us?" asked Stella. "And when?"

"I never stopped," shrugged Violet. "He'll always be special, the history is there. And, he's a friend, more than the rest. I wouldn't cry in front of… Cruz, but Gallo had seen that side. I'm still extra worried when Gallo did something dangerous on calls. The extra worry is not reserved only for boyfriend, though. Best friend too. Brett was worried more than usual when you went under the bus the other day."

"Yeah, I guess… Severide is my weak spot. I don't want it to be, though," said Stella.

"You'll get there eventually, if you don't want it. Maybe. I don't know," Violet refilled her coffee.

Stella had to admit she felt better after going for breakfast with Violet. Just as Violet was about to drive her back to her car at the firehouse, she impulsively asked, "you and Fidell are having lunch?"

"Yeah, I'll just cook at my place, there's some ice cream too for dessert. We'll watch Emily in Paris while hoping we were in Paris shopping instead of cold Chicago trying to save lives," said Violet.

"The offer to join still stands?" asked Stella.

"Of course. Brett's afraid of Laura, Gallo too, but she's really nice. You and her would get along," said Violet. "You eat Japanese food, right? I'll cook."

Violet was right, Stella found Fidell amusing. She is more uptight than the bubbly Violet, but the friendship between the ex-partners is still strong. Violet cooked a simple but comforting Japanese meal, and Fidell recounted what happened in the ambulance, how she gave CPR in the back of a moving ambulance while pumping the oxygen pump. Stella couldn't believe when she said that Captain Leone was the first to comfort her after hearing that Grissom died, and let her hide in her quarter, to which Violet attested that Leone was very warm and supportive towards the ladies in Firehouse 20. She just couldn't imagine that motherly side of Leone.

After lunch, they sat on the sofa to watch Netflix with an ice cream bowl and snack bowl in front of them. Stella felt sleepy and leaned on the armrest of the sofa. Violet who sat beside her moved down to the floor to be able to reach the snack bowl.

"Violet!" whispered Fidell. She pointed at Stella who was already asleep.

"Good. She didn't sleep last night," said Violet. She pulled Stella's feet to recline on the sofa and spread a blanket over Stella, turning the TV volume down and turning the caption on. And that's how Stella woke up four hours later. After feeding her some homemade muffin and coffee, Violet dropped her back at the firehouse to get her car. They met in front of the church for the memorial service.

"After you," said Violet, stopping at the pew where Severide, Casey, Gallo, and Ritter sat.

"Is this seat reserved?" asked Stella.

"No," said Severide. Stella sat there, Violet and Fidell followed her.

"How are you holding up?" asked Stella.

"I'm hanging on," said Severide.

"Hey, I know we haven't talked much lately, but if there's anything I can do… let me know," said Stella.

"Thanks," said Severide.

During the service, it was mentioned that Grissom went inside to save two babies. Severide's tears streamed down his face. Casey was also shaken when Grissom's friend—they were candidates together—gave a eulogy. It's been hours since he acknowledged that it was pure luck that he got to write reports and not eulogy this morning. He almost could see himself up there, looking at the casket of his best friend…

"Captain," Gallo whispered, giving his arm a small poke. Casey was brought out of his reverie. He glanced at Gallo. "You okay? You're really pale," said Gallo with concern.

"Yeah, just… yeah," Casey loosened his tie. He convinced himself to take his own advice about accepting and letting go. Severide's still there, not a scratch from the accident. Gallo didn't seem convinced, though, as he kept stealing a look at Casey who struggled to catch his breath.

"What?" asked Casey.

"No, you're shaking," said Gallo, glancing at Casey's hands. He had never seen Casey looked so shaken. "Everything alright, Captain?" Casey knew that he needed to let it out of his chest or he would crumble otherwise.

"When the structure gave up, Grissom pushed Severide aside," Casey said, his voice was lower than a whisper. Gallo's eyes widened.

"So…" Gallo looked at the front of the church as realisation dawned upon him. The friend was near Grissom's casket, giving his last respect by putting a medal of valour they earned together 30 years ago.

"Yeah," nodded Casey. "He almost died." They glanced at Severide.

"But he didn't, it wasn't his time. He still has to teach me rappelling down a building," said Gallo, giving Casey an innocent smirk.

"I'll kill both of you," whispered Casey, giving Gallo a stern look, but then chuckled. Gallo just grinned innocently and looked to the front of the room, not before giving Casey's shoulder a brief squeeze. Casey glanced at the young firefighter and appreciated his effort to calm him down. They stood with the congregation and finished the service with singing a hymn. Stella put her hand on Severide's shoulder when he didn't stand, and he stiffened immediately, standing quickly.

"Sorry," whispered Stella.

"No, I was zoning out," admitted Severide. "Thanks," he wiped his face with his hands.

"Yeah," Stella put her hand on his shoulder again, squeezing it lightly.

Once the service was over, they walked from their seats to the back of the church. The church was very full, even overflowed, as it seemed most off-shift firefighters in Chicago were there. They gathered in a corner. When Leone walked by, Violet and Fidell went to her and hugged her. Stella frowned as they left with Leone. Leone did look very nurturing to the two young paramedics. Casey stood shoulder to shoulder with Severide, staring at the same scene.

"How is he doing?" asked Herrmann with low voice.

"Surprisingly stoic," said Casey.

"Keep an eye on him, Casey. He might break down anytime, like the last time," said Herrmann. Casey nodded. 'The last time' was after Benny's death, when Severide froze on a call. "The one under my roof also zoned out on drill every five minutes yesterday," he glanced at Stella, who was standing beside Gallo.

"And after the call yesterday," added Casey. "How are you doing?"

"Me? I'm good," said Casey.

"Bullshit," said Herrmann.

"Let's just pretend I am, I need to be," said Casey. Violet walked back from the corner where Firehouse 20 gathered.

"Thought you're crossing back to that side, I have pictures to send to Brett," teased Gallo.

"Don't you dare," threatened Violet.

"Lunch duty next shift," said Gallo.

"I'm on lunch duty," interrupted Ritter.

"Sharpen axes on truck," said Gallo. Violet frowned. "She's good at it, Captain," added Gallo.

"And you're not?" asked Violet. Gallo's face reddened.

"Sharpen your axes, Gallo," said Herrmann. "And send me the picture."

"Ask for free beer," suggested Violet. They all chuckled. Despite the occasion, it felt nice to gain some normalcy back.

---

Casey woke up at 2 in the morning. He had a vivid dream about looking down on a casket, and Severide was inside, with his body broken after the ceiling crushed him. He stumbled to the bathroom thinking he would throw up, and as he panted heavily above the sink, he looked to his reflection, pale and tears-streaked, looking back at him. With shaky hands, he splashed water on his face and sat to compose himself, then went to the kitchen to grab a glass of cold water. After his hands stopped shaking, he sat on the sofa, where upon straining his ears, he could hear Severide's soft snore. Slowly, he opened the door of Severide's bedroom. Severide was sleeping, Casey had to stare to see the rise and fall of his chest to make sure. He felt bad waking him up, so wordlessly he lifted the duvet and slipped inside. He kept his focus on every breath Severide took.

"What?" asked Severide groggily.

"Sorry," whispered Casey. He pressed his fingers to Severide's neck, a habit he developed when Severide got blown up in the hospital bombing. He never really got rid of the habit, and Severide stopped complaining after Brett and Mills told the story of how he was found, looking very much dead, and nearly blacktagged by the doctor.

"Issokey," said Severide, then draped the duvet over his shoulder and patted his hair. He drifted back to sleep immediately as Casey could hear his snore again. Lulled by the noise, he joined his best friend in dreamland.

When Casey woke up, he was alone. It was late, as the sun was already up, and he could hear the TV outside. He yawned as he walked out the room. No one was there.

"Kelly?" he called. A few papers were left on the kitchen table, the coffee machine had coffee in it, and there were dirty dishes in the sink. The bathroom was empty as well. He looked at the small table where they put their keys, and found Severide's car key, phone, and wallet there, but his shoes and jacket weren't there. He read Severide's report and found that the part he last wrote was clearing out the homeless area in the building. Before he had time to think where Severide would go without his car and phone, the door opened and Severide appeared.

"Where were you?" he asked, unintentionally being harsh.

"Just walking around," said Severide.

"Huh?"

"Just… around. I needed some air," said Severide, shrugging off his jacket.

"Because of this?" asked Casey, holding up the report. Severide nodded.

"I'm not ready," said Severide, sitting in front of Casey and gathering his reports.

"Yeah, I get it. Haven't written the part where we dug you out of the rubble too," said Casey.

"Is that why you came in last night?" asked Severide. "Talk to me."

"You nearly died, Kelly. The Chief who gave the eulogy yesterday… it might have been me," said Casey after contemplating. He considered not telling the truth, but Severide had gotten really good at reading him, he would catch the lie immediately.

"What's with the 'accept it and move on' speech you gave yesterday?" asked Severide.

"Easier said than done, huh," snorted Casey. Severide's expression changed. "I thank God a thousand times that it wasn't you, then I felt guilty because that means I'm relieved that it's Grissom, then I… I don't know."

"Sorry, didn't realise it was hard on you too," said Severide.

"No, I shouldn't bother you with that. It's alright, forget about it," said Casey. "Just another day in the life of you nearly dying."

"I didn't intend to," Severide clapped Casey's shoulder. "You should say something, though. Not just made sure I'm okay."

"I am saying something," said Casey. "Managed not to think about that too much, then yesterday it came to me in the church. Hence the nightmare, I think. Then, yeah, I just needed to make sure you're alive," Casey shrugged. "What about you?"

"I didn't feel anything about almost dying, surprisingly. Just like the house fire, when I was trapped below a chimney. I didn't feel anything. But to have someone died in my place, I…" Severide poured a cup of coffee and gave it to Casey to distract himself. "I mean, I have… Grissom…"

"What about him?" asked Casey.

"You know he offered me a place in Oak Park as chief?" asked Severide.

"You weren't exactly quiet when you yelled at him here, despite the 'all due respect' you said, so yeah," said Casey.

"I resented him more after that. I always think I don't want to be a politician in the CFD. Getting the position however he did, and used it to play pawn on others. His exact words were what Benny said, about you already being a Captain and I should be ahead, I could be ahead," said Severide. "I lost it when he started saying that, I said that I would never follow in his footsteps."

"You're you, Kelly. You're more than capable. Doesn't mean you have to," said Casey.

"Isn't it ironic? I said I would never follow him. But I did yesterday," said Severide. "That was his last words to me. He said, 'you said you wouldn't follow me, Kelly'. And Mikami said that I followed him inside, that means I trusted him. Trust is not a word I'd describe my relationship with Grissom. Boden, I trust. You, I trust. Him, I don't."

"You don't trust him as a Commissioner, Kelly. He was a firefighter, a damn good one. Of course you followed him in the fire. You didn't realise it, but you trusted him," said Casey. Severide nodded. "So, the report?"

"Couldn't bring myself to write it," said Severide.

"Yeah, me too. I'll leave it for later," said Casey. He opened the fridge. "Oh, you know what? Gallo said something about learning to rappel down a burning building. I said I'll kill you both," he chuckled.

"Gallo? Why all of a sudden?" asked Severide.

"He sat beside me yesterday. I think I zoned out, he pulled me out of it, said I was pale and shaking. I told him that Grissom pushed you out of the way when the building collapsed. He simply said, 'not his time, still need to teach me rappel down a building'," said Casey.

"That's actually a good idea. I promise I won't poach him for squad, but before he rappels on his own accord without proper judgement… how about I take him to the academy?" asked Severide.

"Go ahead, but don't tell me about it or I'll come supervise," said Casey.

"Ah, protective Papa Casey," teased Severide. Casey threw a pen at him.

---

"Casey," Stella knocked on Casey's quarter. "Truck is out of gas, and Gallo needs to get some groceries," she said. Casey looked up from his report, the one he had been struggling to finish. Stella was taken aback seeing Casey's disturbed face. "You okay?"

"Ah, yeah. No," Casey pointed at the report. "Let's go."

"It's okay if you're busy, we still have a bit of gas left. Just finish what you're doing," said Stella.

"No, it's alright," Casey stood up. "Don't know when I can finish that." Stella raised her eyebrows.

"I thought Mouch is doing it for doughnuts," said Stella.

"I finished the major part. This is… when we dug Severide and Grissom up," said Casey. "Already told the Deputy Commissioner what happened, but writing it down is another thing. Not easy to relieve digging them out of rubble without thinking what if."

"I get it," said Stella. "I was behind you until Severide was found. How about you tell me what happened after that so I get the complete story? I can write the report."

"No, no, there's no need," said Casey.

"Half a dozen doughnuts?" offered Stella. "I can use that to get Mouch do my chores on truck."

"It's Severide we're talking about. Last shift you were troubled about not being able to do anything for him," said Casey.

"Now I'm okay. Got some enlightenment after shift," said Stella. "So, gas and grocery run first?"

"Let's go. I'll even cook," said Casey.

After they got back from the run, Stella followed Casey to his quarter and sat on his desk, ready to write the reports.

"Sure you're gonna be fine?" asked Casey. "You really don't have to. My report, my nightmare."

"I'm fine. Really, I thought hard about it, I know where I stand now," said Stella. "So, it started with the explosion, and then Severide didn't answer his radio?"

"Boden called, he didn't answer. Then we saw the ceiling had fallen, blocking the door," said Casey. His voice faltered, being taken back to the moment. "Then Delaney suggested we go through the wall."

"I heard about it, that's when I left triage. Who tore the wall down?" asked Stella after a while. "Was it Tony, Capp, and two from Squad 1?"

"All Squad 1 and 3. Except Severide. But only Capp, Keller, Wang, Georgio, and myself went in, with Georgio and I stayed near the wall. It was risky, the floor was already soft, so we took the lightest guys from two squads," said Casey.

"And you found Severide first, right?" asked Stella, already writing.

"Yeah. He was under some rubble. He was sideways, and the baby was in his hug," said Casey.

"Who found him?" asked Stella.

"Wang found him. His mask was broken, and he was unconscious. Capp gave me the baby, which I gave to you," said Casey. "And then, the guys dug Kelly and passed the backboard… a paramedic received him."

"Brett and Violet," said Stella.

"Yeah," said Casey. "Wait, I need timeout," he said. He looked down at his hands which were shaking.

"Yeah, take your time," said Stella.

Half an hour later, after two more timeouts, Stella handed Casey the report. It was written in Casey's handwriting, as Stella could replicate his handwriting perfectly.

"Thanks a lot, Kidd. Been putting off doing that since yesterday. Neither of us could do it," said Casey.

"Severide too?" asked Stella.

"Yeah. Not about the rescue part, but when he ran back inside," said Casey. "You're gonna be okay? You zoned out after the suicide call, and on Herrmann's drill too."

"Herrmann's drill yes, but the suicide call… it was about the call. Suicide call always gets me," said Stella. "Mouch said something. About the strongest person would crumble anyway if faced with continuous problems. And, you know," she tilted her head to Severide's quarter.

"I see. I'm keeping an eye on him," said Casey.

"Yeah?"

"Yeah. Don't worry. I got him," said Casey. Stella nodded. "Hey, if something's bothering you, you know you can talk to me, right?"

"I know," said Stella. "It works both ways. What you said last shift… it helped. A lot. Thanks."

"Of course. Anytime," said Casey, frowning.

"What?" asked Stella.

"What changed between last shift and this shift? You're surprisingly detached today," said Casey. Stella poked the door with her foot until the door met the frame. Not completely closed, but their voices would not be heard everywhere.

"I thought I had to completely disregard him. Think of him as the same as Cruz or Ritter. You know, different rig, just same firehouse. I don't want him to be special. And between shifts I was advised not to disregard the history. Severide is special to me. We had something, and we'll continue to have the history. So I accepted that, and it's easier to detach myself from the emotional thought. Writing the report was a practice," said Stella.

"Wow. Doesn't sound like you," teased Casey.

"Uhm, I'm offended. What do I sound like?" asked Stella.

"Don't make me say it," said Casey. "You're welcome if you need more practice, though," he laughed. "Right. We'll stop for doughnuts on next call," said Casey. As if on cue, Severide appeared.

"Hey Casey," he said after knocking briefly. "Oh. Am I interrupting?" he asked, looking at Stella who sat on the desk and Casey who sat on the bunk.

"No, we're just done," said Casey. Severide looked at him, asking for elaboration.

"I'm just about to imitate Casey's signature," said Stella. Casey gave her a side-eye.

"Nope," he put the report on his desk and signed it.

"What are you doing?" asked Severide to Stella.

"Feeling the officer vibe," said Stella.

"You're done with that?" asked Severide as Casey put his reports in a file to deliver to Boden.

"Yeah," said Casey.

"You need help?" asked Stella to Severide.

"What?"

"Kidd wrote my report," explained Casey. "Couldn't bring myself to write it, so…" he shrugged.

"I finished already last night, beer helped. Why didn't you say earlier you're opening a report writing service," joked Severide. "Post the advertisement in the headquarter, you'll be rich in a week and can resign from truck."

"Hey!" protested Casey.

"Well, Casey will pay me with doughnuts, which I'm gonna pay Mouch with," said Stella. "Truck currency now."

"I see Brett and Mikami joining truck soon, then," said Severide. "Anyway, Case, just a heads up, I'm gonna do what you said someone wanted me to do. I'll ask him." Casey groaned.

"Go ahead. I don't wanna know about when. She will not know, either," said Casey, pointing at Stella.

"What?"

"No, nothing," said Casey. "It doesn't concern us." Stella frowned. "You'll see it when the time comes… for now, we are better in the dark."

"Does it concern anyone in 51?" asked Stella.

"Anyone, yes, but nothing about who's there and who isn't. You won't see it until… I don't know," said Severide.

"I hope never," grunted Casey.

"Submit report to Boden then…" Severide waved two cigars. "For finishing the report?"

"Right behind you," said Casey.

"I think I'm the one who should smoke, I finished the report," said Stella to Casey. Severide and Casey looked at each other, shook their heads, then left the quarter. "Boys," muttered Stella, then smirking. It was her first normal conversation with Severide since the break-up. It is a long way to go to back where she wanted them to be, but it was the first step.

.

---

Much longer than I expected and we didn't even get to the actual funeral of Grissom. It was hard to include the three of them while Severide and Stella are broken up and not interacting much (their interaction level is somewhat like late season 7 before the child endangerment case). Not really happy with how long this turned out and the somehow abrupt ending though, but oh well. Small steps to be friends again like we see in the series.