Happened after Severide and Stella got back together again but haven't moved in together (probably early Season 8), but in terms of other things happening, imagine Season 9 (Violet is already at 51 for some time, but baby Cruz is already born). In terms of this story, this happened after Chapters 7-8-9 and 12.
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Casey toned down his whistle as he walked out of the bathroom. Severide didn't go home until late last night, or at least he didn't hear him and Stella trying to keep their voices down as they walked into the loft. They usually tried to keep their make-out voices down, which he appreciates. However, hearing them talking in hushed voice gives him comfort that he had other people in the apartment—people he considered family. Even Stella, who's been staying in the loft more since she and Severide got back together.
As he turned the corner, he frowned when he saw Severide sleeping on the sofa. He looked to the coat rack near the front door and saw only two jackets and two pairs of shoes there, so Stella wasn't in the apartment. Deciding to let Severide sleep for longer, he started the coffee machine and pulled out some bread and peanut butter for their breakfast. Severide started stirring when the coffee was done.
"Good morning, sleepyhead," said Casey jokingly, quickly sensing that Severide was in a foul mood when Severide looked at him with squinted eyes. "Breakfast?"
"Nah, I'm good," said Severide. He walked to the kitchen.
"Kidd's not here?" asked Casey. He was pretty sure he saw Severide waiting for Stella's shift at Molly's to be over last night.
"She left?" asked Severide. "Argument. That's why I slept out here."
"Didn't hear her leave. Trouble in paradise?" asked Casey.
"Yeah. It's pretty messed up. I don't know when she left," said Severide. "I'll take a quick shower."
"You want coffee to go?" asked Casey.
"Yeah, pour me one," said Severide.
"So… this is unusual," Violet commented to Brett as they cleaned the ambulance's dashboard. First shift was in back-to-back calls that they spilled coffee on the dashboard. They wanted to stay and clean it but Brett and Violet shooed them home.
"What?" asked Brett.
"Well, Severide was in a mood when I met him…" said Violet.
"He yelled at you again?" interrupted Brett. "I'll IV him with sedative."
"Your protectiveness is endearing, but no. I stayed out of the way," said Violet. "Anyway, obviously then I avoided Casey too, but he was whistling and even released Gallo from cooking lunch."
"So, stay away from Kidd," said Brett.
"They broke up again?" asked Violet. "That was fast."
"No, I don't think so," Brett looked at Stella who was checking truck's tyres. "She didn't say anything. She came to me straight away the other day."
"Ah, I see. So, this is a couple's tiff, not a brothers' tiff," said Violet. "Funny my first thought was to avoid Casey and not Kidd."
"Because Kidd would never yell at you. Casey too, though. Actually, Severide too, it was just an unfortunate event," said Brett, referring to Violet's first time stepping into the firing zone accidentally.
"I know," said Violet. "Still, don't want to dampen my mood."
"How about we have breakfast? I saw Gallo making pancakes," said Brett as she packed away the cleaning supplies.
"You totally read me," praised Violet.
"Or I may have heard your stomach rumbling," said Brett. They walked to the firehouse, sneaking a glance at Stella who was laying on the rolling board under the truck. "She's been checking that last tyre since we came with supplies."
"I can't. Come on," Violet pulled Brett to the truck. She pulled the board from under the truck.
"What the…" Stella looked up and saw Violet and Brett standing above her.
"Come on, breakfast," Violet lent her hand. "We could hear your stomach rumbling from the ambulance."
"I'm not hungry," said Stella weakly, but accepted her hand and stood up.
"Well then, I'll eat your share of pancakes. You can have coffee," said Violet. They sat in the common room and Violet put a plate of pancakes in front of Stella.
"You okay?" asked Brett. They took place in the corner of the room.
"Kelly. He acted like a jerk again, I left very early in the morning," said Stella. "Don't have a boyfriend, girls. Girl power."
"Kinda too late for that," said Violet.
"That bad, huh?" asked Brett.
"Maybe. I don't know. Thought this time it would be better. No, I thought this time it would be good," said Stella. "Same old, same old."
"Really? Overnight? I thought it's different now," said Brett.
"What was it about?" asked Violet innocently. When Stella looked at her, trying to form a sentence, she continued, "oh come on, don't leave us with the back cover of the novel. I wonder what's ahead after Lucas and I get over the never-meeting-each-other phase after his residency ends next year."
"Definitely not this one. I have a cousin who's getting married next month, and of course I'm bringing Kelly. The moment I mentioned it, he freaked out, and shut me off," said Stella. "I was about to head home, but it was late and he said he'd sleep outside, so yeah, that's that."
"Wait, you mentioned getting married?" asked Violet. Stella snapped her fingers in front of her face.
"Duh, don't daydream about the doctor now. I mentioned going to the wedding. Not mine," said Stella.
"And he freaked out why?" asked Violet.
"You tell me," said Stella.
"Have you taken Lucas to a family's wedding, Violet?" asked Brett.
"No, but he took me to his cousin's wedding. When I went to Michigan the other day, that was for that wedding," said Violet.
"Huh, see, a guy ten years younger thinks it's normal," said Stella.
"Probably make sure he heard it correctly too. He might have similar ears to Violet," said Brett.
"Mentioned the date, the place, and how my relationship with my cousin is," said Stella. "It's like he's that allergic to commitment, he developed allergy to the word too."
"He's gone a long way since you first got together. Just being in a monogamy relationship didn't seem possible when I first knew him, and it's been…how many years with you? He'll come around," said Brett.
"Wait, a polygamy?" Violet's eyes bulged out of their sockets.
"I didn't say that," said Brett. "Alright, committed relationship," she corrected herself.
"You mean, the Vegas wedding," said Stella, amused.
"Damn, life at 51 seems more fun before I came," said Violet. "I should've come earlier."
"You were still in school… not fire academy, but high school, when he's young and stupid. Now, he's just stupid," said Stella. "Anyway. Change of topic. Take me out tomorrow?"
"Breakfast or gym?" asked Violet.
"Breakfast. Always breakfast," said Stella. Brett nodded in agreement.
Casey knocked on Severide's door and slipped in. He put the plate on Severide's desk, right on the report he was working.
"If you were my Ubereats, I'd give you a star down for not being friendly," commented Severide.
"Kinda hard to be friendly if someone in my company was in a lousy mood throughout the call," said Casey. "Good thing she aced the call, I had no cause to tell her off."
"And it's my fault?" asked Severide.
"It has something to do with you," said Casey.
"You came to blame me for Stella's mood?" asked Severide.
"Just came to see if you're okay," said Casey softly.
"I'll be," said Severide. "You cooked?" he looked at the meatloaf on the plate.
"Yeah. Capp was estatic," said Casey. "What was it about?"
"Since when did you poke your nose in my relationship, huh?" asked Severide, started munching on the food. Even though Gallo, Ritter, and occasionally Violet cooked good meals in the firehouse every shift, Casey's food is on another level.
"Since I lived with you and am directly affected by what happened," said Casey.
"No, it's nothing. Nothing you'd understand, anyway," said Severide. Casey always had the idea of settling down, at least that's what happened with Hallie and Gabby, although he didn't know where Casey stood now, but for Casey, freaking out over going to girlfriend's relative's wedding would never happen. If any, Casey would eagerly go as it's a step forward in the relationship.
"Alright. I'm down for cigar tonight if you feel like it," said Casey, standing from his place on Severide's bunk.
"Thanks. Alright, a star up in Ubereats for the cigar offer," said Severide.
"Where's my tip?" joked Casey.
"I'll go grab groceries tomorrow, will get some steaks," said Severide.
"Psst!" Casey waved two cigars as he poked his head into Severide's quarter at night.
"Let's go," said Severide. They just walked out of the firehouse when the alarm blared.
"Truck 81, Squad 3, Ambulance 61, person trapped."
"Well, that's about it," said Severide.
"At least we haven't lit them," said Casey, shoving the cigars in his jacket pocket and ran to the apparatus floor.
"Were you already sleeping, Mouch?" asked Gallo as the older firefighter climbed last into the rig.
"No, but the Bears just scored," said Mouch. "What is the address?"
"Construction site," said Casey. "And it's dark. Bring headlamp and regular flashlights, we're gonna need some of those. Everyone who doesn't actively partake in rescue use three lights each."
"Copy that," said Mouch. When they arrived, Casey met a worker who was waiting for them.
"A worker, he was on top of the platform. Then the concrete block fell, shoved him into the blackroom," said him, pointing to the top of the building. "We've been calling for him, there's no answer, it was dark inside, and the blackroom itself is unstable in the first place."
"We go, assess, then call what tools to bring?" asked Severide.
"Yeah. Mouch, raise the aerial. Gallo, Kidd, a lot of flashlights," said Casey.
"You guys wait here, we'll call for equipment," said Severide. They climbed the aerial and got to the top. Some workers were there, and there were two people peeking inside a pit.
"Coming through!"
"So, this is the blackroom?" asked Severide as they shone flashlights to the pit.
"It would be elevator room from the inside, which started on third floor," said the worker. "He hasn't answered, we can't see him aside from his reflective shoes under that concrete."
"Squad, bring V-ladder and some rope. I'm gonna rappel down," said Severide. The hole was very tight. "Maybe I'm the only one that can fit through," he said.
"We can't have too many people here," said the worker. "It's not concrete yet. Mostly plywood. That is the safe area," he pointed to the spot where some construction workers were standing.
"You can't go down, it's too dangerous. Ladder can't be propped up on plywood," said Casey.
"You have better suggestion?" asked Severide.
"Any other way in?" asked Casey.
"Wall was unmade on one side, it's a hanging platform from the inside, with a six-story drop to three stories of basement," the man shook his head. "We can go in to the rooms on the side and prop up the plywood with some wood. You can't enter through those sides, though, they're concrete."
"Alright, we'll do that," said Severide. They positioned the ladder and then squad prepared Severide to go down. Some construction workers scrambled out of the area.
"You're not going to wait until they're done from the bottom," concluded Casey, deciding not to argue with Severide there.
"No," said Severide. "What's the bottom of the platform made of?"
"Concrete. From there it's four stories down," said the worker.
"Be careful, Kelly," said Casey. "I can't see the bottom." He clapped Severide's arm.
"Yeah," said Severide, then rappelled down. They got confirmation that he had reached the platform.
"Sir, are you there?" Severide shone his headlight to the man trapped under a huge slab of concrete. The concrete was across his legs, and Severide cursed when he realised that at best, he would get amputation. He touched the man's neck to make sure that he was still alive. "Sir, hey," he slapped his arm. He tried to move the concrete, but realised that it would take a heavy equipment to do that, or at least 10 people, which they had no place for at the moment.
"Severide, sitrep!" yelled Casey. Severide could hear some construction workers in the room beside him, although the sound was muffled by concrete.
"He's alive. Although I need to get assessment from medic. We might need to ask Connor to take a field trip," said Severide.
"Is it safe down there to send medic down?" asked Casey. "At least the plywood held up, they're lighter than you."
"Just one person, it's tight here. Keep us on leash to be safe," said Severide.
"61, we need you up here," said Casey. Once Brett and Violet appeared with their turnout coats, he explained the situation. "Alright, which one of you?" asked Casey.
"Violet's looking excited already, I'm not gonna say no to that face," said Brett. "Besides, the factory fire…"
"Can you rappel down?" asked Casey to Violet, understanding Brett's hesitation.
"I can," said Violet.
"Squad, prep her," said Casey.
Down in the platform, the man stirred. Severide touched him.
"Sir, my name is Kelly Severide. I'm with the CFD," said Severide. "We're gonna get you out of here."
"No… no time," he said.
"Yes, there is," said Severide. "Just wait for a bit," he said.
"Severide, sending Mikami down!" said Casey. Severide went to the hole and caught Violet who was rappelling down. For a medic, she did so with no difficulty, he noted.
"My bag is coming next," said Violet the moment her feet touched the platform.
"Be careful, there's no wall on that side. Keep the rope all the time," said Severide, tugging on Violet's rope to tell those above that she arrived safely. "Send the bag, Brett!" Violet was already crouching over the man's legs.
"I'm gonna put tourniquet on his legs first," said Violet, then quickly worked. The man yelped, and Severide held him down. When she was done, she went to the man's side. "Hi, sir. My name is Violet, I'm a paramedic from CFD. How are you feeling?" asked Violet.
"Not long," croaked the man.
"What's your name?" asked Violet.
"Andrew… Andy," said the man.
"Andy. Alright, from 1 to 10, how's your pain?" asked Violet. She opened her bag and grabbed a stethoscope.
"Eight," rasped Andy. Violet listened to his heart beat and got the heart pressure monitor out. Severide paid close attention to his legs. They were definitely crushed.
"Eight, huh. I'm gonna give you some med for the pain, how does that sound?" asked Violet.
"Quick. Not long," said Andy.
"What's not long, sir?" asked Violet.
"Die," said Andy.
"Well, one thing you should know about me, Andy, is that I have pretty stellar record as a medic. You don't get to die on my watch," said Violet calmly. She poked Andy's legs and asked about what did he feel. When she took out his shoes, the feet were worse for wear. They knew that there's no blood flow in the legs.
"Any way the concrete can be removed? Fast," said Violet in a low voice. Severide looked at her grimly and shook his head slightly. "Okay, how about tearing the concrete down?"
"You're not making squad any time soon, we're standing on concrete too," said Severide.
"Then I'm afraid…" Violet cut her words. Severide nodded grimly. "Sir, I'm putting in IV and painkiller."
"Casey, we need Connor, haven't gotten an okay," said Severide, purposely didn't use the doctor word.
"Copy that," said Casey from above.
"Sir, how do you feel?" asked Violet after she put in IV. She put the IV bag on her shoulder and kept her hand on Andy's arm.
"Not good."
"Hang in there, we'll get you back to your wife," said Violet after seeing his wedding ring.
"Help," rasped Andy.
"Help is coming. Who's waiting for you at home? Your wife?" asked Severide.
"Lola, my daughter," said Andy.
"No dog?" asked Violet. Andy smirked.
"Two cats," he continued. Violet nodded approvingly, glancing at Severide to continue.
"Right, Andy. See, the concrete that's on your legs, it's gonna take more than 10 people to lift it. We can't have that many people down here, as you know. It seems that the only way you're getting home to your family is to leave your legs behind," said Severide.
"You mean…"
"Amputation. If you okayed it, we'll have a surgeon come here and save you, by operating on your legs," said Severide.
"It's not cut off now?" asked Andy.
"The bones are shattered, and the blood flow to both feet has likely been cut off, but a clean incision and stitches need to be made," said Violet. "I'm really sorry, but that's the only way," said Violet.
"I don't feel pain now, they're alright," said Andy.
"That's because the painkiller is working now," said Violet. "I'm sorry for being blunt, but it looks like either you're going home without your legs, or you're not going home at all."
"No, I don't want... how am I gonna live without walking?" Andy cried. "I can't walk, what will my family say?"
"Sir. When I was little, my grandparents and I got into a car accident. My grandpa was paralysed, and he was in a wheelchair. Let me tell you, he still chased me across the lawn and played with me. I didn't understand back then, but I was really excited to ride his wheelchair every time we visited," said Violet. "Your family would be grateful that you get to come home, legs or no legs. They would see the dedication of a dad, a grandpa someday," said Violet.
"I'd be on wheelchair?" asked Andy.
"You'll be in physical therapy, they'll determine the best care," said Violet. "So, are you going home, without legs?"
"Without legs," said Andy firmly.
"Casey, Connor is on!" yelled Severide.
"I'm sorry it came down to this, but we don't have other options," said Violet.
"Can you… can you both help me? In case I die. Tell Esther I love her. Tell Lola…"
"Tell her yourself, you're going home," said Severide.
"No, you don't… you don't get it. We've been separated for months. Want to let her know… I'm sorry," said Andy. "Please, just in case… tell her. I need her to know. Word by word. Tell her…"
"Alright," Violet pulled out her phone. "We'll record it. You ready?"
"No, wait. What do I need to say?" asked Andy.
"That you're sorry and you love her?" offered Violet. She took out some wipes and started wiping dust off Andy's face. "Come on, I'm forgetful as a messenger." She gave her phone to Severide, and started checking Andy's heart rate again. "Distract him until doc got here," she whispered.
"It's recording," said Severide.
"Now?" asked Andy.
"Yeah. You said you have something to say to your wife?" asked Severide.
"Esther. Honey. This is… really unfortunate. I told these firefighters to deliver my message, they recorded me instead. I'm sorry. I want to say it as soon as I walked out on you. I was stupid, I am stupid. I said a promise, I didn't deliver. I love you, honey. Whatever you want, whatever you want me to do… if only I can survive this. Legs or without legs. This lady here… she reminds me of Kendra. I miss Kendra, every day. And if I die… I'll see her. But I'm not ready without you. Not while we're at odds. I want to die with you by my side, honey," Andy wiped her tears. Violet held his hand. "Cut."
"That was beautiful," said Violet. "May I ask…"
"We lost Kendra at eight years old. She would be around your age, and she liked playing nurse, she'd be like you," said Andy to Violet. "Give it to Esther… at least, it'd be a closure. You're married, sir?" asked Andy to Severide.
"No, I don't," said Severide.
"If you ever do, man… don't let them go. Don't let them be mad at you, not for a bit. You know. Esther and I… we were together for 30 years. My family didn't approve of her, we eloped, lost two unborn children, lost one at eight years old. Went through bankruptcy, loss of jobs, loss of parents, everything, we kept going for 30 years. One stupid disagreement and I walked out. Thought it would be for a night. It's been eight months," Andy's tears streamed down his already pale face. "You too, miss. If you ever find someone… hold on to them. I regret the moment I walked out every second."
"I'll keep that in mind," said Violet. "Hey, the surgeon is coming, hear that?" she pointed up. She glanced at Severide who looked shaken, remembered what Stella told her in the morning.
"Severide, dr. Bekker is here, she's going down! Can one more person fit?" asked Casey.
"I'll send Mikami up!" said Severide.
"No, I need her down there," said dr. Bekker.
"Then yes, it fits, but tight. I'll stand. Keep us all on leash, Case!" yelled Severide.
"Sending the tools down, be careful down there, everyone," said Casey. Severide caught the tool bag.
"Okay, doc. You don't need to do anything, we'll lower you down. Just make sure you fit through the gap and keep the rope all the time," said Casey. "And, this is your headlight. It'll help during the surgery."
"Okay," said dr. Bekker.
"Good luck, doc," said Brett. Stella patted her shoulder before she got lowered.
"Hi, doc," Severide pulled her standing as she arrived. "Welcome."
"You really have to plunge me in a dark, cold pit, huh, Lieutenant?" asked dr. Bekker.
"Ah, you have to get out of the hospital sometimes," said Severide.
"What do we have, Mikami?" asked dr. Bekker. She observed the legs. "Have you given meds?"
"Versed, 2 mg," said Violet. "This is Andy. He consented to the amputation."
"Sir, my name is dr. Bekker. I'll be performing your operation," said dr. Bekker. "Mikami, you'll be on my side all the time. We're short-staffed, I didn't get to bring an extra hand. You know the name of the tools? They have the numbers on the handle, I'll say the number."
"Yes, I'm familiar with those," said Violet. "I'll attach the machine if I may?"
"Go ahead. Severide, you stay on Andy's side, watch the oxygen, heart rate, and blood pressure. This is a local anaesthesia, so you'll be awake the whole time, Andy. Don't listen to the noise of the machines. Just block everything out. I'll cut both your legs just below the knees," said dr. Bekker. Violet handed Severide an earphone.
"We're gonna talk about the things you take to the scene," said Severide.
"They're in my pocket all the time," said Violet. "Hold this IV bag on your shoulder. This is oxygen level, alert if it drops below 95. For heart rate and blood pressure, dr. Bekker is going to need it every… how long, doctor?" She pointed at the monitor.
"Every minute or anytime it appears red," said dr. Bekker.
"Let's see… you can stand here, and keep the flashlight on dr. Bekker's hands," said Violet, handing two flashlights to Severide.
"Hang the blood bag," said dr. Bekker. "I brought four bags, good thing we have enough supply in his blood type."
"Hanging the blood bag," said Violet. "Excuse me," she shuffled beside Severide and attached the blood bag, giving the bag to Severide. "Hold this together with the IV bag, Lieutenant."
"Well, let's hope she has good taste in music, Andy. I'm expecting Justin Bieber and One Direction," said Severide, shoving the earbuds to Andy's ears.
"Wow, you know about them," said dr. Bekker.
"You do?" Severide asked back.
"Keep him from looking here," said dr. Bekker while tearing Andy's pants. "Add 1 mg of Versed. I'll start injecting the incision area." She drew a line on both legs. "Severide, ask if he feels my movement." Severide relayed the question, then confirming that Andy was numb on both legs. "I'll take the tourniquet off. We'll stop the blood flow first," she said, then named the different tools she needed. Severide couldn't help but noticed that Violet knew all the tools without needing to look at the numbers. "You're good. Ever been to Med or Nursing School or you just like to watch Grey's Anatomy?"
"Neither. Just like cool stuff," said Violet.
"I'd say you're just as good as the senior nurses," said dr. Bekker.
"Thank you. It's my first time watching live surgery," said Violet, handing the saw.
"Keep the numbers going, Severide," said dr. Bekker. "You don't have to watch," she said to Violet.
"It's alright, I want to see," said Violet. She prepared the gauze. Dr. Bekker took a visible deep breath then cut the leg. Violet cringed, and handed the gauze. They both cleaned the area then dr. Bekker stitched the skin. After she was done, they put a pressure fabric on top. Severide stared at their work. A leg that had been with the body for 50-something years, gone in a mere hour.
"How's he doing, Severide?" asked dr. Bekker, snapping Severide out of his thought.
"Humming Baby, Baby," said Severide.
"Ready for the other leg?" asked dr. Bekker to Violet.
"Yeah. You? Is the angle alright?" asked Violet, sterilising the tools and arranging them back.
"Not ideal, but it's not safe to do it from that side, right, Severide?"
"Correct. If you can, please, stay on this side," said Severide, looking up at the hole, ensuring their ropes are still attached.
"Alright, we'll start now," said dr. Bekker. They repeated the process of stopping the blood flow. "Severide, a bit steadier with the flashlights, please."
"Is the IV empty?" asked Violet to Severide.
"Almost. Still have a bit left. Blood is still half full," said Severide.
"Can I leave you for a bit, doctor?" asked Violet. Dr. Bekker nodded. Violet changed the IV bag and gave it back to Severide. She resumed her position beside dr. Bekker.
"We'll do the same thing. I'll cut, you put the gauze on, then I'll suture," said dr. Bekker.
"Okay. Here's the needle," said Violet. She glanced at Severide who read the numbers. They repeated the process. Violet pressed the gauze to the incision site. Dr. Bekker did the suture.
"BP is 90 over 50," said Severide.
"Push Ephedrine," said dr. Bekker. Violet grabbed a syringe and med and injected the IV line.
"It's in," she said, watching the machine. "100 over 65."
"Not bad," commented dr. Bekker. Violet went back to her side.
"They're very tidy," commented Violet.
"Yeah, one of the tests to get into surgery specialisation is the steadiness of your hands," said dr. Bekker. "Do you do cross stitch? That helped my practice."
"Not my type of entertainment, doctor," said Violet.
"I think I saw you a lot in Med," said dr. Bekker.
"Of course, I deliver patients there," said Violet.
"No… I worked with your boyfriend a couple times. And I saw you in ICU a lot," said dr. Bekker. "He taught you about tools?"
"I helped him study," said Violet.
"What an entertainment. Very useful," commented dr. Bekker. "And I believe we're done." They put on the pressure fabric over the incision. "So, I return the command to you, Severide. Just pile up all the tools, make sure everything is in there, Mikami. There are 45 pieces."
"Got it," Violet packed all the tools back to dr. Bekker's bag, then they both took off their bloody gloves. "Here you go," she handed new gloves to dr. Bekker.
"Andy, you with me, bud?" asked Severide. Violet covered the legs with a piece of fabric.
"It's done?" asked Andy weakly.
"Yeah. It's done. We're gonna have you pulled up, okay?" asked Severide, shoving the phone and earphone into his turnout coat. "Doc, you can go first. I'll prep him," said Severide. "Casey! We're done down here, pull dr. Bekker up in a minute!"
"Here's your toolbox," Violet handed her the toolbox, flashing her light on the ground to make sure there's nothing left.
"Thanks. Good work, I'll see you at Med sometimes," said dr. Bekker.
"Thanks too, first time seeing live surgery," said Violet. Severide tugged on dr. Bekker's rope and attached her toolbox, knowing it would be accepted by whoever pulled her out of the pit. "Alright, help me put the harness on him."
"Be careful of the legs," said Violet. "Andy, when you are being pulled up, I need you to hold these bags, okay?" she handed the IV and blood bags to Andy. "Or, oh I know," she made a makeshift sling and placed it around Andy's neck, putting the bags in it. "Keep your arm down as you are being pulled up."
"We're ready for the next one, Severide!" yelled Casey. "They're going with dr. Bekker's ambulance, 61 is going back to firehouse."
"Brett, coming! Bags are around his neck!" yelled Violet.
"We're ready. Pull the additional rope, Case!" said Severide. "Just keep calm, don't move too much. They'll help you up there, bring you to Med," he said to Andy.
"Say hi to Esther from us," said Violet. Severide helped Andy until he got lifted, then helped packing Violet's tools. Violet pulled the fabric she previously used to cover the legs.
"I think I'll just leave this here. Too bloody, I'll just report it as used," she said. "Didn't think it would be that eventful."
"You enjoyed it," said Severide. His eyes were trained at the legs.
"You alright?" asked Violet, shining her flashlight at Severide's face, which was pale and sweaty. In the middle of February, it became concerning.
"Yeah. Just… not used to someone cutting legs like butchering meat," said Severide.
"I know. But, so cool too. She's really fast and tidy," said Violet. "Lieutenant, you're shaking."
"Adrenaline," said Severide. His knees buckled and if not because Violet caught him, he would've face planted to the ground.
"Ooof," Violet broke his fall, pushing him back against the wall. "Sit."
"I'm alright," mumbled Severide.
"No, you're not," said Violet. She grabbed a water bottle from her jump bag and pushed it to Severide's shaking hand.
"Severide, we're ready for Mikami!" called Casey from above.
"G'na be sick," said Severide. Violet moved from the barfing range and brought the water bottle to Severide's mouth, forcing him to take a sip.
"Didn't see this coming. Drink, take a deep breath," said Violet.
"Guys, comfortable down there?" asked Casey.
"In a minute, Captain," said Violet.
"Can we pull your jump bag?" asked Casey.
"Kinda being used at the moment," said Violet. She pulled out tools from her bag and checked Severide's vital. "Rapid heart rate, low blood pressure. You want oxygen or paper bag?"
"Paper bag," said Severide. Violet gave one to Severide and instructed him to breath in and out.
"Everything okay?" asked Casey.
"Not really," said Violet. "Give us a couple more minutes." She kept her hand on Severide's shoulder and kept instructing him to breath in a low voice.
"What happened? You need extra hand?" asked Casey.
"Captain, is Brett there?" asked Violet.
"No, she's escorting the victim to ambulance. You need anything?" asked Casey. Violet packed the jump bag and attached the rope.
"You can pull my jump bag, then Severide in a minute. I'll go last," said Violet.
"He has to go last," said Casey. "Or something's wrong?" Violet sent her jump bag up. She looked up and could make up Cruz and Casey's figures from the bottom.
"Just post-adrenaline rush, Captain. He's feeling lightheaded, but he'll be fine," said Violet. She walked to Severide and checked his breathing. Severide had started to breath normally. Violet pulled him up. "Didn't know you were on adrenaline rush," said Violet as she propped Severide standing and checked his rope. Casey and Gallo's flashlights shone upon them.
"It was from witnessing the surgery," Severide glanced at the legs. Violet stood between him and the remaining legs on the ground.
"Don't look at it," she said firmly. "Ready?"
"You don't want to go first?" asked Severide, his eyes still trained at the general direction of the legs.
"No," said Violet. "Stop looking there. If you look at it, I'll bring you to Med," she threatened and tugged at Severide's rope. Severide laughed weakly.
"No, Brett won't," said Severide.
"Have you heard Brett saying no to me?" asked Violet cheerfully. "Captain, pull him up, support him once he's up there," she yelled. She held Severide standing until he was being lifted. Casey pulled him up once he appeared on the rooftop.
"Come on. You okay?" asked Casey. Severide nodded, then shook his head. Casey caught him and supported him by holding his arms. "Cruz, pull her out."
"Alright, Violet, your turn. Don't be afraid," teased Gallo, flashing his light down to the hole. Violet was standing with her hands on her hips.
"What's taking so long?" asked Violet. Gallo snickered and signed to Capp to pull her out.
"Bold of you when you need to be pulled out of there," commented Gallo.
"She doesn't need you, Gallo. She needs us," said Cruz.
"What happened, Kelly?" asked Casey as he released Severide's rope and harness. Severide fell to him. The others tried not to watch the very rare breakdown as Casey pulled Severide to the side. "Post-adrenaline rush, huh? You're shaking." Casey was taken aback when Severide leaned on him, and rubbed Severide's back in an attempt to calm him down.
"Where's Stella?" asked Severide as he pulled back.
"Down with Brett, escorting the victim," said Casey.
"Damn," said Severide.
"Welcome back to life," Gallo grinned as he caught Violet's rope. "Come on," he pulled Violet to stand beside the hole.
"Finally," said Violet, releasing her rope and harness.
"You okay?" asked Gallo. Violet nodded, glancing at Severide who was talking to Casey. Casey's hand was still on Severide's shoulder as a precaution. "What was it like?"
"Just as expected," said Violet. "Dr. Bekker said I was like a seasoned nurse," she boasted.
"Huh, result of studying on dates with a doctor," commented Gallo. Violet smacked his arm.
"What happened to Severide?" asked Gallo.
"Saw a man's legs got chopped off, what would happen to you?" asked Violet.
"I'd pass out and let you hover on me," said Gallo.
"I'd be busy with the surgery," said Violet. She pulled a water bottle from her turnout coat and gave it to Casey to give to Severide.
"Pack up, everyone! Let's roll back to the firehouse!" said Casey. He kept one hand on Severide's shoulder until they reached the aerial, then descended below Severide, ready to help him if he lost his footing.
"Careful," Casey kept a hand on Severide's back when his feet wavered and nearly missed the stair. "Slow and steady, Kelly." He kept his hand on Severide's back as they walked to the rigs. Med's ambulance had left with the victim. Casey pushed Severide to Brett.
"No need," said Severide.
"That means you need something. What is it?" asked Brett.
"Mikami phrased it, lightheaded from post-adrenaline rush," said Casey.
"I'm okay. Got my water, no more severed legs," said Severide. Brett checked him out quickly.
"Eat some sugar when you get back to the firehouse," said Brett.
"Copy that," said Severide.
"Kelly," Casey was waiting with two cigars and a granola bar the moment Severide entered the firehouse.
"Come on," said Severide. They pulled two chairs and sat in front of the firehouse.
"So, what happened?" asked Casey, handing the granola bar.
"What happened with what?" asked Severide.
"What happened on the call. Unless you want to tell me what happened with Kidd. She was in a terrible mood today in the rig," said Casey.
"Dr. Bekker chopped the legs, my duty was to light the surgery area with flashlights. It was disgusting. Blood was everywhere, and Mikami watched the surgery mesmerised. Since when we have granola bar and not cigar?"
"Since you almost passed out on call. Finish that first, then cigar," said Casey. "And Kidd?"
"Don't know. Guess I always suck at that kind of thing," said Severide.
"At what?"
"I don't know. Did I freak out for no reason? Not really, there's a reason…" rambled Severide. Casey offered him the cigar after he finished his granola bar, not really understanding his words. They sat in silence. "The man, the victim… he left a message for his wife, just in case," he said. He stood abruptly.
"What?" asked Casey.
"He ended up recording a message… I'd like to think it was a distraction. Can't imagine actually delivering a message to a widow. Well, I've done it before, and I hated it," said Severide. He took out Violet's phone from his pocket. Upon Casey's frown, he looked at the phone. "Oh, it's Mikami's. I didn't bring my phone to the scene." He tried to unlock the phone. "Huh, for a smart girl, she didn't lock her phone," he commented and scrolled through the phone to find the video. They watched it.
"It's meaningful," said Casey. "You're gonna give it to his wife?"
"Maybe," said Severide.
"I think you should," said Casey. Severide stood up abruptly. "Huh?"
"I gotta find Stella," said Severide, then walked inside the firehouse. He looked inside the common room, then locker room and bunk room, and couldn't find Stella. He walked back out to see Casey still sat on his chair. "She's nowhere to be found. Doing some chores maybe?"
"Not that I know of. Maybe she doesn't want to be found," said Casey, remembering the times he found Stella hiding in the coat room or rig to get an alone time.
"Yeah. Maybe. Hey, hospital tomorrow? Delivering the video?" asked Severide. Casey nodded. "Well, I'm hitting the bunk. Didn't sleep much yesterday." He patted Casey on the shoulder.
"Night," said Casey, then walked to the coat room. "You're just gonna hide here all night?" He asked while turning on the light.
"How do you know?" asked Stella. Casey chuckled and extended his hand to pull her up. Stella just looked at him.
"Have I told you we think alike?" asked Casey.
"You don't hide here," said Stella. "You have a cosy room to hide in."
"Severide's looking for you," said Casey.
"Hence why I'm here. Cruz said he was looking for me," said Stella. "What else don't I know aside from he got married before? Another failed marriage? Allergic reaction to one? Being left at the altar? He ever was a guest at one?"
"Not that I know of, except being a guest," said Casey. Stella huffed and leaned to the coats. "Anything wrong?" he sat on the shelf next to her.
"He won't even come to one as a guest," said Stella.
"Doesn't sound like him," commented Casey.
"Everyone warned me… I mean, Brett, Dawson… said he's not a relationship person. And who am I to think I can change that," said Stella.
"You already changed him," said Casey. "Take it from someone who've known him for more than half of his life. You did, and if he was not a relationship person, he is now."
"That's what he said when we got back together. And the last time, when he was in the hospital. But now, boom," said Stella. "Shutting me off, clammed up when we're supposed to talk…"
"I'll admit that he's not the best communicator. But he's getting better. He has his moments, and it takes patience, a cigar and a couple beers to deal with him. Give him a chance," said Casey.
"Since when you're a relationship counsellor?" Stella punched Casey's shoulder lightly.
"Since you were unbearable in the rig, and he was too," said Casey.
"Sorry," said Stella. "I promised myself this would not happen. Not gonna bring our trouble to the firehouse."
"Eh, I'm gonna go ahead and say that I think the weather of this place is more affected when Kelly and I had an argument," said Casey. Stella nodded in agreement then sighed.
"Sorry, Casey. I brought the problem to your home too," said Stella.
"It's your home as well. That's what make it a home," said Casey, ignoring the fact that Stella had not officially moved in. Stella smiled.
"Thanks. I'll talk to him tomorrow."
"Don't stay here all night. I'll inspect the room in 15 minutes. You better be gone," said Casey. He squeezed Stella's shoulder before leaving the room. Stella patted his hand.
"Hey," Severide intercepted Violet in the locker room. Once she got back to the firehouse, she washed the blood from her turnout coat. When she saw blood smears on her neck and face, she decided to shower as well. "Here's your phone. Send me the video, I'll go to the hospital after shift to hopefully meet his wife," he whispered since everyone was already asleep in their bunks.
"Thanks," said Violet. "How are you feeling?"
"Alright. Casey force-fed me granola bar. I guess it was the amputation. Never seen it before. Don't get how you're so calm, excited even," said Severide.
"Oh, I live for things like that, Lieutenant. I mean, it sucks that he lost his legs, and it was stomach-churning, but watching dr. Bekker work… it's amazing," said Violet.
"You're good. She managed to work efficiently because of you," said Severide. "Why didn't you go to Med School? Or nursing?"
"I don't like being indoor," joked Violet. "Personal reason. The aforementioned accident. I remember watching my grandpa being taken out of the car, the firefighters and paramedics took a good care of us. I wanted to be a firefighter or paramedic for a while, then I grew to love science, biology, chemistry... so paramedic it is." Violet looked at her phone. "I just sent the video to you. Andy is settled in ICU. He's stable and being monitored overnight for infection since it wasn't the most sterile OR. I'll go there tomorrow too. If you want to visit, just tell me the time and I'll let the nurses know to let you in," said Violet.
"You still have that power in ICU?" asked Severide in disbelief. When he was in the ICU, Violet charmed her way in, got a boyfriend, and after more than six months, she's still an honorary guest among ICU doctors and nurses.
"Yep," said Violet. "Volunteered once every two weeks too."
"I see. I'll let you know," said Severide. Violet walked to the common room. She sat there with a cup of tea, writing her report.
"Hey," Stella sat in front of her when she was halfway through. "What are you doing?"
"What?" asked Violet. Stella got a bag of Cheetos from the cabinet and put it between them. "No thanks, don't think I'll be able to stomach anything red for a while, at least until morning." She pushed the Cheetos out of the way.
"That bad, huh? Both legs… where are the legs?" asked Stella. "You carried those out?"
"No. They were stuck under the concrete. It we could lift the concrete, we wouldn't amputate," said Violet. "You can't sleep?"
"Saw your bunk empty. I thought you're here snuggling with Tuesday," said Stella.
"Eric has Tuesday this shift," said Violet.
"Too bad. I can use some Tuesday snuggle today," said Stella.
"Any problem? Violet gives pretty good hugs too," said Violet.
"No, just… this stupid thing with Severide," said Stella. Violet rounded the table and hugged Stella tightly. Stella sighed, melted to the younger girl's hug and held her arms.
"Why are you so cold?" asked Violet, rubbing her shoulder.
"I was in the rig," said Stella. "Thank you. Not Tuesday, but it helps."
"I can bark too," offered Violet before releasing her and sitting back on her place.
"Oh I know," said Stella. The other day, when Chloe Cruz left baby Brian Cruz in the firehouse for an hour, Violet and Ritter babysat him and Violet, to everyone's amusement, mimicked Tuesday's barks to elicit Brian's giggle. Casey walked to the common room.
"You two don't sleep?" asked Casey.
"Using the leftover adrenaline to write report," said Violet.
"It didn't crash like Severide's?" asked Casey.
"No, mine got down gracefully," said Violet. "Captain, is the amputation part of my or dr. Bekker's report? Do I need to write detailed account of the surgery?"
"My understanding is, if you perform the procedure, you write it," said Casey.
"I wrote the part until he consented to the surgery. I took his vitals, attached the machine and assisted the surgery. Should I write detailed parts of the surgery?" asked Violet.
"Only when you're involved. Were you?" said Casey.
"Yeah, I played nurse, handed her all tools, attached blood bag and changed IV," said Violet.
"Write that, then," said Casey.
"Alright," said Violet. "Then it's gonna take hours and a lot of sugar to write."
"Dr. Bekker said she was impressed, you did really well. Better not leave for Med School too," said Casey.
"No, can you imagine me in an OR with no window?" asked Violet. "I'd miss driving around helping drunk people at night," she joked.
"Don't jinx it at 1 am," said Stella.
"Go to sleep, you two," said Casey after getting a mug of water and left the common room.
"Come on," said Violet. "We're still on for tomorrow? Breakfast?"
"Please," said Stella.
"Hey, um… so just before his shift, I had an argument with Lucas," she said. "And we haven't had time to talk it through, because you know, opposite shifts. But this is what he texted me on his way to shift," she showed her phone to Stella, covering half of the screen.
"We'll talk and we'll be okay," Stella read the screen.
"Yep. We're also not the best when it comes to talking between us, about feelings and emotions. Add opposite shifts and being young and immature. But I know we'll be okay. You'll be okay too, you two. Everyone knows that," said Violet.
"Yeah?"
"If you're not by the beginning of next shift, beer on me," said Violet.
"Tempting," said Stella. "Thanks. By the way, you're not immature. You're very mature for your age."
"I'm not. Lucas is," laughed Violet. Stella laughed with her as they walked to the bunk room.
"Stella!" Severide caught up with Stella who was walking with Brett and Violet to their cars. Brett and Violet fastened their steps, leaving Stella behind. "A word?"
"Not now," said Stella. "Going for breakfast with the girls."
"Can I come later?" asked Severide.
"Yeah. At 3?" asked Stella.
"Alright," said Severide, watching as Stella caught up with Brett and Violet. It looks like Stella and Brett were riding with Brett's car while Violet drove her own car. Casey stood beside him.
"Rejected?"
"At 3," said Severide. "Come on, let's go home. I need some sleep without thinking about red flesh and bloodied legs."
"You didn't sleep last night?" asked Casey.
"Barely. First amputation in pitch darkness, that I had to hold flashlights and stared at the surgery the whole time. Saw the severed legs every time I closed my eyes."
"Sorry to hear that," said Casey.
"It affected me that much, but it didn't affect someone half my age whose turnout coat and face was splattered with blood," said Severide.
"Mikami? She's affected too. She didn't eat this morning because Gallo put tomato sauce on her omelette," said Casey. "He finished two plates. Good I didn't run a drill after that."
"Nice to know I'm not the only one," said Severide.
At 1, Severide and Casey sat in the ICU's waiting room, waiting to be let in. Violet said they would be let in at 1, but didn't give further explanation about who would let them in.
"Maybe you should ask?" asked Casey.
"And say what? It's restricted area," said Severide.
"You're an alumni, don't you know anyone?" asked Casey.
"You were here every time I got admitted," replied Severide. "Maybe she forgot to tell whoever's on shift," he grabbed his phone.
"Lieutenant Severide," dr. Phillips called from the lift.
"Hey, doc," said Severide.
"It's Lucas. Captain," said dr. Phillips, shaking their hands. "Come on in, Violet's already inside." He opened the door to the ICU. "Mr. Wabash is doing considerably well, we're keeping watch for infection. Wear these before going in." He gave them two ICU coats.
"Mikami saw him already?" asked Severide.
"I don't know, I haven't seen her," said dr. Phillips. He went to the nurse station and came back with Violet in tow.
"You saw him?" asked Severide.
"Yeah. His wife came earlier this morning. The nurses said she asked about him, but didn't want to meet him. She's waiting outside, the one with yellow shirt," said Violet.
"I'll see her after I see Andy. You're coming with us?" asked Severide. Violet nodded. Dr. Phillips gave her an ICU coat.
"Normal visitor limit is one. You have ten minutes before dr. DiAmico makes his round," said dr. Phillips. They walked to the room. "Hi, Mr. Wabash. You have three visitors," said dr. Phillips.
"Ah," Andy looked up.
"This is Captain Casey from the CFD, and you remember Lieutenant Severide from your accident yesterday, right?" asked Violet.
"Yeah, the lighting man," said Andy.
"My only contribution yesterday," said Severide. Andy held out his hand.
"Thank you for saving me. I regretted last night… I thought I shouldn't cut my legs. But the prospect of meeting her… it was worth it," said Andy. "I'd cut my hands off too if it means coming home to her." Severide just nodded, lost for words.
"She must be glad that you're coming home too," said Violet. She slipped her hand to Lucas' hand.
"I'd like to think so," said Andy. "I'll keep the positive thought, like you said, doc," he said to Lucas.
"You should. I see you're feeling better than this morning?" asked Lucas.
"Yeah," said Andy. He glanced at their hands. "So, she's your girl?"
"She is," said Lucas. "She told me about you, said you two share a music taste of Justin Bieber."
"We do. She's a good one, doctor. She and this man… I wouldn't be here without them," said Andy. "Kept my spirit high yesterday. She operated on me."
"I didn't. That was dr. Bekker, I only assisted," said Violet.
"How are you feeling?" asked Severide.
"Lighter, like I lost two legs," said Andy. "Hey, can I ask, about… my legs?"
"The construction company takes care of it," said Casey.
"My family has a cemetery plot, I'd like to have them buried. Someday, I'll join them," said Andy. "I'll ask them… it's not like I can work for them anymore."
"Have you met your wife?" asked Severide. Andy's face dropped.
"No. My daughter said she asked about the visiting hours… she hasn't gotten the memo, then," said Andy. "There's still hope to meet her, as long as I'm alive. I'll be on her front door as soon as I'm released," said Andy. A nurse peeked in.
"Doc, dr. DiAmico is doing rounds," she said.
"Gentlemen, sorry to interrupt, but you need to go. It's not visiting hours, and you're still considered high-risk," said Lucas.
"Looks like we need to cut it short, Andy. Get better, okay?" asked Severide.
"You're leaving too?" asked Andy to Violet.
"Yeah. Glad to see you're looking better than yesterday. Keep the spirit up," she patted Andy's shoulder. They left the ICU.
"That's Esther," Violet whispered, pointing at a lady in the corner of the waiting room. Lucas' pager went off.
"I'm needed in the ICU. See you tonight?" asked Lucas.
"Yeah. Enjoy the shift," said Violet. Lucas squeezed her hand, then shook Casey and Severide's hands before leaving. "Shall we talk to her?" she asked the two officers.
"Uh…" Severide hesitated.
"Cold feet, Kelly?" teased Casey.
"Come on, Lieutenant. I need to go shortly," said Violet, then walked to the lady. "Excuse me, mam, are you Esther?"
"Yeah?" the lady looked up.
"My name is Violet Mikami, from the CFD. These are Captain Casey and Lieutenant Severide. Andy told us about you," said Violet, sitting down beside her. Casey and Severide sat in front of them.
"He did?" asked Esther.
"Yeah, we were in there with him when he got the emergency amputation. In fact, he went through with the surgery for the hope of seeing you again," said Violet. "And he did record a video for you, he said, just in case…"
"Here you go," said Severide, handing off his phone. Esther watched it and cried, staring at Violet at the mention of Kendra.
"Oh my God. Excuse me," she rushed to the ICU and knocked. Once she reached the door, she turned to them. "Thank you, really, thank you. Can't believe I've been hesitating from 7 am," she said. She rushed back again and hugged Violet, right when the ICU door is opened.
"Visiting hour has ended," said Nurse Lisa.
"Lisa, this is Esther, Mr. Wabash's wife. Can you let her see him for a while?" asked Violet, sending Lisa a look.
"Oh, a family member. Of course," said Lisa.
"Go ahead, he's waiting for you," said Violet. Once Esther and Lisa entered the ICU, she grinned. "Feels good taking part in repairing a relationship."
"You better leave before you feel the need to repair another one," said Casey.
"I think that's on you, Captain. I have my own to repair," said Violet. "Good luck with Kidd, Lieutenant. See you next shift," she waved then entered the lift.
"So, she knows. Good thing she didn't leave me when I nearly passed out," said Severide, referring to the fact that the three girls are very protective towards each other.
"Shall I drop you off at Kidd's?" asked Casey.
"No, I'll drive myself," said Severide.
"Okay. Do I need to clear the apartment?" asked Casey as they walked to the parking lot.
"No, it's alright. She has shift at Molly's, I think, I won't be bringing her home," said Severide.
"What did you do, Severide?" asked Cindy when she opened the door.
"Why did you assume I did something?" asked Severide, offended.
"Really? She came home very early yesterday, and you don't just bring her favourite cookies from across the city for no reason," said Cindy, pointing to two cookie boxes he had in hand.
"Can I come in, Cindy? I have cookies for the lovely landlord too," asked Severide nicely.
"Thanks, Kelly," said Cindy, receiving the box of cookies. She moved out of the way. Severide climbed the stairs to the attic and knocked on Stella's door. Stella opened after a few seconds, didn't say anything.
"Stella," said Severide. "I'm an idiot," he blurted out.
"Well, that's not the first," said Stella, moved out of the way to let him in.
"The victim yesterday… he basically said goodbye to his wife. He walked out of her, and regretted it every second. I… I promised you I'd be a man you deserve. And I failed you over and over and over. I don't know how you stand me," said Severide.
"I told you when we broke up, Kelly. I love you," said Stella.
"I love you, so much. I don't want to be without you," said Severide. "Yesterday's case taught me that I have to keep the woman I love close. I'll go with you anywhere. Wedding, family gathering, wherever. I promise, if you still give me a chance, that I'll show you how much you mean to me."
"Why did you freak out?" asked Stella.
"I don't know. It's just… what if your family hates me?" asked Severide.
"We're adults, Kelly. I'm not a high school girl who would bother if her family hates her boyfriend. I'm my own person, I won't get cold feet if my family doesn't like you. And, it's not like they have anything to dislike," said Stella. "Besides, I've met your mum. It's about time…"
"In that case, will you go to your cousin's with wedding me?" asked Severide.
"Depends on what cookies you bring," said Stella.
"Does it matter?" asked Severide.
"Not really," said Stella, pressing Severide against the door and kissed him. Severide let the cookie box slipped to the floor and lifted Stella, dropping her on the bed.
"It feels forever I haven't been here," said Stella as they climbed the stairs to the loft.
"I know," said Severide, tickling Stella on the waist and kissing her neck. "Hey, listen," he grabbed Stella's hand and turned her so they were facing each other. "I want this to be your home too."
"You're saying…" said Stella.
"Move in with us," said Severide. "That sounds wrong. I mean…"
"You gave my room to Casey," teased Stella.
"Well, I'm hoping we'll share mine, ours," said Severide. "I don't want you to go home again early in the morning to get your gear. I want your things here, I want you here."
"Okay," said Stella.
"Yeah?"
"Yeah. Let's do it," said Stella.
"And… about Casey…" said Severide. "I hope you don't mind him living with us."
"What?" asked Stella. "Of course not, it's his home too. I happen to know that he doesn't object having me here, so why would I? He's your brother."
"Really?" Severide caressed Stella's face. "You're amazing, you know that?"
"I know."
"How are you so sure he doesn't object?" asked Severide.
"He gave me a talk last night," said Stella. "Why do you think I wouldn't want him here? Because he's my officer?"
"When I lived with him and Dawson… he didn't say anything, but I know she wanted me out," said Severide.
"Not me," said Stella. "So, shall we go home?"
"Yeah," Severide opened the door. Casey was sitting on the dining table, reading.
"Hey," said Casey. "You must've forgotten to pick up groceries and the promised steaks.
"Sorry, I was preoccupied," Severide smirked, pulling Stella in.
"A-ha," Casey's eyes sparkled. "Right on time, two minutes to go," he motioned to the oven.
"Smells good," said Stella.
"I thought we'd have steaks?" asked Severide.
"Doubt you'd appreciate red meat after yesterday, so it's green enchilada," said Casey.
"Good thinking," said Severide. He peeked into the oven.
"It's not gonna make it cook faster, Kelly," chided Casey.
"I'm hungry," whined Severide.
"Have some brownies," said Casey. Stella already took a bite. Casey casted a look at her that asked if everything is alright. Stella smiled with a mouth full of brownies.
"That's dessert," said Severide, squatted in front of the oven. "You baked?"
"Christie, not me. Alright, take it out," Casey threw an oven mitten to Severide. Severide took the pan out of the oven and put it on the table. Casey cut and portioned three plates.
"Ah, nothing like coming home to a home-cooked hot food," said Stella. Casey picked up on her wording immediately.
"So, it's home now?"
"Yeah," Stella glanced at Severide, "this is home."
"Welcome home, then," said Casey.
"Glad to be home," said Stella, grinning widely to both men.
.
I'm still salty about dr. Bekker's ending, so just imagine she's still at Med here, and being a badass in my story! She was great on the episode about her doing surgery on the scene, and I'd imagine Violet, being a gore fan (as told in the dentist call), would love to be in a live surgery. Inspired by Season 1 story when Severide recorded a dying message and delivered it.
Also, Jesse Spencer is leaving the show, but in my story, nothing changes. My universe is still stuck in Season 7-9 with Violet and Gallo instead of Foster and Otis and Severide, Casey (and Kidd at times) living together.