**Quick note, this will be the last story I post on ffnet. With all the rumors of the shut down of the site and all the glitches, all future stories will be on Archive of Our Own or (ao3). This includes part 4 & 5 (whenever I write and post them) of my chasing the sun series. I love ffnet but do not wish to continue posting on it if the site is shutting down soon. I have transfered most of my stories to ao3 and will continue to do the rest as I can. Thank you!
Now…moving on.
For Taylor and Kami - my two constants. I used to think I would only ever grow on my own, and I've been afraid to let people in. But you two get me and accept me for my good and bad. You take my highs and my lows and I'm better having grown with you both the last year. Love you both. This one is for you especially!
The final chapter. Thank you for being a part of the journey.
Three Years Later…
Olivia stood in line at the grocery store, going over her checklist for what felt like the thousandth time. Tomorrow they were having a huge party to celebrate Noah's High School graduation. She was a wreck about it of course but she wanted everything to be perfect for her son.
It was hard to believe he'd be heading off to college in the fall. He'd be heading to Boston Conservatory, and while Elliot reminded her, again and again, it wasn't that far away, especially by train, it still felt like her world was crumbling down around her. For so long, it had just been the two of them.
Team Noah and Olivia against the world, and now he was off on his own. When she thought about the fact that she'd been in college herself when she got pregnant, it felt like time had passed in the blink of an eye, and in some ways it had. As proud as she was of him, she couldn't deny she was going to miss him like crazy.
At least she had Elliot and the girls to keep her company, Ember too though she was slowing down. But she wouldn't think of that just now. There was enough on her plate as it was. She'd recently taken the Sergeant's exam and would find out her results soon. Elliot was well on his way to becoming Captain of the firehouse once Ashton would be promoted to Chief soon.
Everything was changing.
All good things.
But still…change was hard.
And Olivia Benson didn't like change.
As she pushed the cart out towards the car, she thought about how much she had resisted change when she'd met Elliot. She had been so hesitant to let him in. To let anything change her little bubble with Noah. But if she had denied Elliot any longer, she may have missed out on all this. This beautiful, sometimes crazy, often chaotic, and loud but wonderful life.
As she lifted one of the bags into the back of the car, something rolled out from the back seat. "Shit."
As she turned to grab it, she noticed someone else bending down to pick it up. "Here you go."
As the man stood up, Olivia's breath caught in her throat, the man himself looked like a deer in headlights. They both stood still, sizing each other up, trying to decide if what they were seeing was real. But…it was.
"Hi, Olivia…"
Quickly, she snatched the item from his hand and held it against her chest, "Dean."
Clearing his throat, he stepped back slightly, "How-how are you?"
"I'm…" She paused and looked down, "Fine. I'm fine. You?"
Lifting his hand, he rubbed the back of his neck and shrugged, "LIfe's…life I suppose."
Again, they stare at each other, waiting.
"I should…"
"How is he?"
Olivia sighed and turned to look at him, "Dean…I don't want to do this. You signed your rights away. And before that, you walked away without giving it a second thought. So…why do you care?"
Chewing on his lip he lifted his head and frowned, "I was just…I mean I've been thinking that he'll be 18 soon."
"He already is." She counted, and stared right at him, "And he hasn't contacted you…says a lot, doesn't it?"
He smiled sadly, "Is he graduating?"
"Yes. Going to a great school. He's a hell of a kid and you missed out on everything."
His eyes looked down at her hand, "Still married?"
Her hand flexed and unflexed by her side, "Yes. Best decision I ever made."
He nodded slowly, 'Did you two have more kids?" She didn't respond, not wanting to give him any more information, "Well…he has a sister. From me. I uh…haven't seen her in years."
She gave him a pointed look, unable to hold back, "You never were meant to be a Father, were you?"
He stepped back slightly, though he knew he deserved it, "I suppose not. Her name is Hannah…if he ever wants-" He sighed and looked down, "Olivia, I'm sorry. For all of it. I don't think it makes up for it but…I am sorry."
She tilted her head up, crossing her arms over her chest as she ran a finger over the rings on her left hand, "It doesn't really matter now, does it?" He continued to stare at her and she frowned, "I think…I ended up right where I was meant to be. The life I have…with my three children. With my husband. I wouldn't trade it for the world. And if I had to go through what you put me through to get here…then I wouldn't change a thing, Dean. Not a damn thing."
He took a slow deep breath, "Well…at least one of us figured it all out." He turned to walk away, "Can I ask you one thing?"
She nodded slowly, "You can ask, but I don't have to answer."
He smiled softly, "Still a spitfire. I did love that about you…" He paused, sucking in his breath, "Do you know what he did? How far he was willing to go to protect you and Noah?"
Tears welled in her eyes when she thought back to it. She'd been just on the verge of letting Elliot in, letting her walls down when Dean had shown up and turned her whole world upside down. He'd threatened to take Noah from her. And Elliot, not even her boyfriend then had risked it all to make sure that Noah stayed right where he belonged. And even after he kept it from her, not wanting to take the credit, not wanting to rock the boat.
He was as steady and true as ever, her rock in every storm, and, God, here, the day before her son's graduation…she couldn't love him more.
"Not at first. But I found out…months later."
Dean nodded slowly, "He really loves you. I could tell…he loves you the way you deserved. Noah too…"
Her heart thumped wildly in her chest, wanting to get home to the man she loved more than she could begin to explain, "He's a good man. The best man I've ever known."
He stepped back off the sidewalk again, "Goodbye Olivia…"
And somehow, this time she knew she'd never see him again. And unlike years ago, it didn't hurt one bit. She had something much better to go home to…
"Goodbye, Dean."
Taking a slow, deep breath, she smiled, lifting the last bag into the car before climbing into the driver seat. Her phone pinged as she turned the key and she lifted it, and checked to see a message from the very man she was thinking of.
Hey babe, checking in. You doing okay? I'm on my way home from work now and I'll help with anything you need. I know it's gonna be an emotional few days. But we'll do this together. I love you.
She sighed and pressed a hand to her chest, "Thank God for that man…"
She whispered softly before typing a reply.
On my way home from the store. I think I got everything. I love you, too.
With that, she turned onto the road, not looking back to see if Dean was still there. There was no point in looking back when her present and her future were so damn bright.
Bernie had stayed with the girls so Olivia could get the errands done, and for that she was grateful. Now 8 and 6, the girls were the absolute joys of her life like their brother, but they fought constantly. And while it was endearing, at times like this, she needed a clear head to get everything done. As soon as she walked in the front door, she heard them arguing and she had to laugh.
How they both came out of her she wasn't quite sure. She'd never seen two siblings that were more different. Brooklyn was quiet, reserved, poised, and attentive to all things. The first one to lend a helping hand in any situation. In tune with everyone's feelings even if they didn't voice them. She was artistic, often a perfectionist, a dreamer, and a doer. A girly girl in every sense, her half of the room painted pink. All things Princess and ballet dancers were her favorites and Elliot was willing to go along with all of it.
Charlotte, little Charlie was fire and fury. She was headstrong. Determined. Loud. Even at six, she commanded every room she walked into. She was passionate and not afraid to voice her opinions while at the same time being kind and understanding how to scale back and apologize (at least to anyone other than her sister). She could make you laugh when you needed it most. She made a splash, often literally. She loved all things sports, and superheroes, loved to experiment and explore her surroundings, and had no fear about it.
She already knew that Brooklyn would probably stay close to home even after college. Charlie would probably travel the world which would break her Father's heart but she'd always come back. While they were opposites, they both loved their family. And for that…she was grateful.
Placing the bags down on the counter, she turned to see Ember asleep in the corner. Now 13 going on 14, she couldn't quite keep up like she used to but her tail thumped wildly when she saw Olivia. Smiling, she walked over and bent down, handing her a treat, "How long have they been at it girlie?"
Ember whined and put a paw over her nose making her laugh, "That long, huh?"
She laughed and shook her head before standing up and walking towards the backyard where they were arguing. Poor Bernie looked exhausted and unsure of how to stop it, "Girls…I don't even know what you're fighting about anymore!"
Olivia chuckled, watching the scene unfold as both girls talked over each other. Brooklyn was perfectly dressed, not a hair out of place as usual. Charlie was already covered in dirt, wearing one of Elliot's jerseys. A new favorite outfit of hers which neither of them could say no to.
Their arguing reached a high pitch and Olivia put her hands up, "Alright, everyone freeze."
Both girls' heads whipped around towards their Mother, "She started it!"
They both yelled it of course and Olivia smiled, "Of course." Turning to her Mother-in-Law she smiled, "I'll take it from here Bernie. Why don't you go take a nap? Gonna be a busy few days."
Bernie smiled gratefully at her, pinching the bridge of her nose, "I love those two. I do…but boy I don't know how you do it sometimes."
Olivia smirked, "Neither do I." She squeezed her arm, "Go on."
Bernie frowned, "You sure you don't need help?"
Olivia shook her head, "I think I'm in good shape. Elliot will be home soon anyway. Thank you."
Bernie nodded slowly, "Okay." The girls were already arguing again and she shrugged, "All I know is that Brooklyn is upset about something Charlie said about Elliot and then from there it took off in a hundred different directions."
Olivia huffed loudly, "Sounds about right."
"Good luck!" Bernie yelled with a laugh as she walked back into the house.
Olivia sighed and shook her head as she walked down the three small steps to the little backyard. The girls were already back at it and just as Charlie went to push her sister, Olivia sat down and intervened, "Alright, alright! That's enough!"
Brooklyn crossed her arms, lip quivering, "Mom…"
Charlie crossed her own arms, her foot tapping, eyebrow raised, "Brooklyn said I can't wear Daddy's shirt! But he said I can!"
Olivia nodded slowly, "B, Daddy did give Charlie permission."
"But she's making it all dirty!" Brooklyn yelled, throwing her arms up in the air, "Why can't she wear her own shirts?"
"Cuz I wanna wear Daddy's jersey! I like it!" Charlie yelled back, tongue sticking out, "He calls me his mini-me."
Brooklyn turned her head, "Hm."
And then, Olivia had a little glimpse into what this was probably really about. Elliot had started coaching Charlie's soccer team which allowed him extra time with their youngest child. It was something they bonded over. And it seemed that Brooklyn, ever the Daddy's girl even at eight years old, was probably feeling a little left out.
"Charlie…" Olivia smiled at her, "Did you hit your sister?" Charlie gave her a nervous smile, "Charlotte…we've talked about this. If you are upset…you use your words. You do not hit your sister or anyone for that matter. You need to apologize…"
"But she said-"
"Apologize for hitting her and then we'll deal with that…okay?"
Charlie sighed, "I'm sorry for hitting you, Brooklyn…"
"Good." She turned to her oldest daughter, who may not have hit with her hands but could sometimes cut like a knife with her words, "And Brooklyn, I understand that you are frustrated but you have to remember that you don't get to make the rules for your sister. Even if you are older…" Brooklyn frowned and Olivia smiled, "Dad gave her permission, so you owe her an apology too."
Brooklyn took a deep breath, "I'm sorry Charlie…"
"Good. Now… hug each other." Both girls gave her a look and she smiled, "Hey…that's Dad's rule. You know how it works."
The girls sighed but turned to each other and reached out to hug tight, before Charlie got inevitably distracted and took off back towards the house. Olivia had to laugh as she heard her feet slapping against the floor as she ran to Ember. Turning back to her middle child, Brooklyn seemed to still be pouting.
Reaching for her daughter, she smiled, "I'm gonna need some help baking tonight, can I count on you?" Brooklyn shrugged, "Oh come on…I need my sous chef. You know that."
Brooklyn smiled softly, "Okay…"
Pulling her into her arms, she kissed her temple and smiled, "I love you kiddo, you know that, right?" Brooklyn nodded again, "And your Dad loves you too…so very much."
Brooklyn leaned into her Mother but kicked at the ground below her, "But does he love Charlie more?"
Olivia smiled remembering when Charlie had asked the same thing a few years back. When Elliot had gone to get Brooklyn's arm tattooed and wasn't supposed to get Charlie's. Having been an only child, she had never experienced that jealousy. Hell, she just wanted to be loved, period. But she was sure it was normal for the girls to fight for their parent's attention and it just meant they loved them both so much.
"I promise you Brooklyn…he loves you both. More than you'll ever, ever know."
"Yeah but I don't do all the things that Charlie does." She said with a sniffle, "She likes sports and stuff…I don't. Does Daddy have more fun with Charlie than he has with me?"
"Sweetie…" Turning her slowly, she smiled, "Daddy has fun with both of you. Noah too. Yeah, maybe it's different but it doesn't mean he doesn't love you as much as he loves your sister."
Brooklyn still looked unconvinced, "Mom…"
Lifting her hand, she pushed back her hair and smiled, "I'm not sure we've ever told you this…but do you know that Dad saved your life?"
Brooklyn frowned, "He saved Charlie…he helped you when she was born in the truck. Grandma told us that story. He didn't save me."
Olivia nodded, "That's true…he did do that. But, he also saved your life when you were a baby. Long before Charlie ever came into this world."
Brooklyn's eyes went wide, "What happened?"
"Well…we were decorating for Christmas at our old apartment. Dad and I were putting the lights on the tree and Noah was with you nearby. And we don't know why…but you stopped breathing."
Even as she said it, she got choked up, remembering the fear they'd all felt. The look on her daughter's face, the dark eyes, blue face, the moment she thought she was losing her forever. But Elliot had jumped into action without giving it a second thought.
"I did?"
Olivia smiled softly, feeling her own heart thump a little faster, "You did…and it was terrifying. But your Dad…he never hesitated. He picked you up. And he helped you breathe. I drove us to the hospital and he never stopped…he never would have stopped Brooklyn, not for a second. He would have done anything, will do anything to protect you."
Brooklyn sucked in her lower lip, "Wow…"
"And even after…I'd never seen your Dad that scared. Not ever. The mere thought of something happening to his little girl…it nearly broke him, baby." She smiled and kissed the tip of her nose, "Charlie and your Dad may connect with sports and other things…but you are just as important to him. He loves you equally. He's so proud of you and loves every second he spends with you. Never, ever doubt that, okay?"
Brooklyn smiled, tears in her eyes and she quickly wrapped her arms around her Mom, "Okay."
She smiled and smoothed back her long brown hair, knowing she understood, "And for the record, I love you too. All three of you."
Brooklyn smiled and pulled away, "I love you too, Mom."
A moment later, the back door opened and Elliot appeared with a large smile on his face with Charlie hanging from his bicep, "Hey! I'm home!"
Olivia smiled knowing what was coming next, Brooklyn's eyes went wide, and she walked around her Mom and ran up the steps, launching herself at her Father. "Oof."
Olivia stood up, brushing off her jeans as she watched him with both the girls. Charlie hung on him like a little spider monkey and Brooklyn wrapped around his middle squeezing with all her might, "I love you, Daddy."
Elliot smiled, bending slightly to kiss the top of her head, "Well, I love you too baby."
She looked up at him and smiled before tugging on her sister's arm, "Come on Charlie, let's go finish Noah's card."
"Okay."
Charlie flipped off of her Dad's arm and took her sister's hand, the two of them running off as if World War 3 hadn't erupted ten minutes earlier. Olivia laughed as she walked up the steps as Elliot watched the girls run off, Ember not far behind. He turned to look at his wife, a question in his eyes but he didn't have time to say a thing. She quickly took his face in her hands, her thumbs caressing his cheeks as she pulled him in for a passionate kiss. His hands settled on her waist, his fingers slipping up under the material of her shirt as he moaned into her mouth.
When she pulled back, he took a breath, "Damn…hello."
She laughed and kissed him again, "I love you, did you know that?"
He laughed and wrapped his arms tighter around her waist, locking them in place, "Not that I mind one bit…but what's with the extra love this afternoon? Between you and the girls, I'll be a blubbering mess before tomorrow."
Olivia shook her head and pushed up on her toes, wrapping her arms around his shoulders, and hugging him tightly, "I guess we just want to make sure you know how appreciated you are." She kissed his neck softly and smiled, "How grateful we are to have you in our lives."
He smiled, sliding his hand up her back, holding her close, "I'm the lucky one Liv. Always have been."
She pulled back and smiled at him, "No regrets?"
He shook his head and smiled, "Not one."
She smiled and slid her hand down his arm, threading her fingers with his, "I'm glad you're home."
He squeezed her hand as they turned towards the house, "Me too."
The following day was an absolute blur. Olivia had barely slept but was somehow wide awake trying to get everyone out of the house so they wouldn't be late for the ceremony. They'd cheered the loudest out of any family when Noah's name was called and he'd turned to look at them, looking straight at his parents and smiling at them, letting them know this was as much theirs as it was his. And now, as she stood in the kitchen getting things ready, she thought back to the morning when she'd helped him tie his tie before they left the house.
"Crap."
"Here…let me help you."
Noah turned to look at his Mom from the mirror in his room, "Why do they make them so complicated?"
Olivia laughed and walked towards him, taking the tie from his hands, "You are so your Father's son."
They shared a look, both of them thinking of the two men he'd thought of as a Father. Both of them were grateful for the one that had actually wanted him, even if they weren't blood-related. "Mom?"
She curled the silk around making a knot and she smiled, "Hm?"
"Thank you."
She smoothed the material down his chest and smiled, trying to mask the tears that were sure to threaten over, "For what?"
He sighed and shrugged his shoulders, "For wanting me." Her breath caught in her throat, "For giving. me the absolute best life I could have asked for. And for letting me be…me."
Lifting her hands, she chewed on the corner of her lip, "Noah Benson Stabler…you never have to thank me for that." She sniffled softly and wiped at the corner of her eyes, "You, were the biggest surprise in my life but the absolute greatest gift. You saved me…and I wouldn't be where I am today without you. I loved you from the moment I held you and will love you until my last day and even after." Pulling him into her arms she smiled, "I'm so proud of you."
Noah held her back, "Team Noah and Mom…still my favorite team." She smiled as she pulled back, "But…I'm pretty happy we let some more members on the team…"
As if on cue, someone knocked on the door, they turned to see Elliot poking his head in, "You guys ready? The troops are restless and Charlie may break loose from the car if we don't head out soon."
Noah laughed, "Yeah…I'm ready." He turned to his Mom and smiled, "What about you Mom? You ready?"
She sighed and slipped her arm through his, "Nope. Not at all."
Elliot smiled and settled in on the other side of her, "It's okay babe…you can cry on my shoulder."
Noah chuckled, "Yeah, but whose shoulder are you gonna cry on, Dad?"
As they walked out the front door, Noah ruffled Ember's hair and Elliot touched the top of the little statue of Ember Noah had given him all those years ago. And as they climbed in the car, all three of them couldn't help but think about how far they'd come…
Now, watching her son talk to Liam and the rest of his friends, laughing and enjoying their day, she sighed. It had all gone so damn fast. Tyler stood beside him, the two of them were still together and going to try and make long-distance work as Tyler was headed to NYU in the fall. She hoped it would work, she loved Tyler and he brought out the best in her son. But she would be there for him, no matter what way it went.
A moment later, Alex appeared, "God, how the hell is he going to college? Didn't you and I just meet Freshman year?"
Olivia looked over at her and smiled, "Sure feels like it, doesn't it?"
"A hell of a lot has changed since then." She smiled as she looked over at her husband Matt entertaining their two kids and Brooklyn and Charlie, "But all good things I think…"
"All great things." She paused and slid a platter towards the middle of the counter, "I uh…I saw Dean yesterday."
Alex's eyes went wide, "What? Where? Did you tell Elliot?"
She nodded slowly, "I told him last night." She looked over at her husband who was manning the grill, "I was leaving the store and I dropped something. Next thing I know the man handing it to me is my ex…it was…odd."
Alex frowned, "Wow, the night before Noah's graduation. I can imagine that brought up a lot of feelings. Good and bad?"
Olivia nodded, "Definitely. But…"
"But?"
Olivia smiled softly, "It was weirdly…cathartic. I felt like it really show me how much better my life turned out without him. I could spend forever hating him, and part of me probably will. But what good does it do? In the end, he gave me Noah. But he has no place in our lives. I didn't feel angry…I felt pity for him if anything."
Alex smiled, "I'm proud of you, did you know that?"
Olivia's face flushed, "Alex…I'm already a mess. Let's not-"
"No, seriously, I am." She reached for her hand, "When I think back to the girl I met Freshman year…and see the woman you are now." She sniffled softly, "I'm so damn proud of you. You've never, ever given up. And even when the world made you think you weren't worth it or threw so much crap at you, you stood strong. And look…look at the life you've built."
Olivia closed her eyes, and among the chaos, she heard her four favorite people, their laughs, even Ember's bark, and her heart ached, "Alex…"
"And before you say anything about me helping…you did the hard work, Liv. Yeah, maybe I was there. But you showed up. And you fought for what you wanted and for your kids, especially Noah. And for that, you should be proud of yourself."
Olivia sighed and pulled her in for a hug, "Yeah, but whether you like it or not, I never would have been able to do it all without you." She could see her husband walking into the house and she squeezed tight, "And I never would have married him if you hadn't pushed me to see what was right in front of me."
Alex pulled back and turned to see Elliot walking toward them, "I'll give you that last part." She squeezed her hand, "Congrats Mom, this day is as much yours as it is his."
With that, she turned and walked away leaving Olivia and Elliot alone. He smiled and placed the burgers down on the table, "Noah seems to be having a good time."
She smiled and leaned into him as he wrapped his arm around her, "He does…"
Smiling, he tilted her head up, "You doing okay?"
She smiled softly, "Can't believe we're actually here…but yeah I'm okay."
He kissed her forehead, "He's a hell of a kid, babe. He's gonna be okay."
She smiled and wrapped her arms around his waist, "I know you're right. Just hard to let go."
They stood there quietly, watching their son with his friends and a moment later the girls came barreling in, talking a mile a minute. Elliot laughed and looked at his wife, "Well, at least we have these two for a while longer. They'll sure keep us on our toes."
She smiled and leaned up to kiss him, "Thank God for that." When she pulled away she smiled, "But when it's just the two of us…a long time from now…whatever will we do with ourselves?"
He smiled, wiggling his eyebrows, and whispered, "Oh, I'll find plenty for us to do babe. Plenty. Don't you worry about that."
And she knew that though one journey may be ending…there was still a hell of a lot more ahead for them. And she couldn't wait to see what happened next.
The celebration had lasted late into the night, friends came and went. Fin, John, Don, Ashton and his family, Alex and hers and everyone else they'd met along the way had come to celebrate Noah. But as Olivia was cleaning up and Elliot escorted the last guests out of the house, Noah snuck into the living room to set up a surprise he'd been keeping for quite some time.
Elliot walked into the kitchen to meet his wife, "I'd say today was a success, you agree?"
She smiled up at him as she wiped her hands on a hand towel, "I think so."
Elliot rested his elbows on the counter, "The girls are out on the couch. I'll try and transfer them upstairs."
Olivia smiled, "Okay, I'm pretty sure Charlie is covered in frosting but it may be a lost cause to try and change her. I'll clean her sheets in the morning."
Elliot nodded, "Okay."
"Mom? Dad?"
Elliot and Olivia looked over to see their son nervously standing in the hallway, "Hey kiddo, you must be exhausted. Long day."
Noah smiled and nodded slowly, "Yeah…but um…I actually have something for you guys."
Elliot stood up and smiled, pressing his hands into the counter behind him, "Why do you have something for us? Today's your big day. Not ours."
Noah shrugged, "Yeah but, I wouldn't have made it this far without you. So yeah…it's your day too."
Olivia smiled and walked around the kitchen island towards her son, "What'd you do Noah?"
"Just…" He fidgeted nervously, "Come into the living room and I'll explain. Brooklyn and Charlie are going to burst if we don't do it tonight. They've been so good at keeping the secret which is a miracle in itself."
"Charlotte Bernadette Stabler was able to keep a secret?" Elliot asked in disbelief, "That truly is a miracle."
Noah chuckled, "You're not kidding. Do you know how much bribing I had to do? Why do you think I've been home as much as I have?"
"I thought it was because you loved your Mom and were going to miss me so much that you wanted to spend extra time with me," Olivia said with a little pout.
Noah reached for her and pulled her towards the living room, "Well that's part of it too. But the other half was that I had to play whatever Charlie wanted to play to keep her quiet."
Elliot chuckled and followed them, "She's good, I'll give her that much."
Olivia looked back at her husband with a curious look and he just shrugged. The three of them filed into the living room and found that the girls were wide awake now, sitting on the floor in front of the TV with Ember laid out in front of them. Bernie who was spending the night was set up in the corner, an emotional look on her face. Olivia's heart was pounding hard, and she knew whatever was coming was going to make her cry. Subconsciously, her hand moved behind her and she felt her husband reach for her, squeezing tight to let her know he was there beside her as always.
Together, they sat down on the couch and Noah nervously moved towards the TV, "Okay…so…you know how I took a film class this last semester?"
Olivia nodded slowly, "Sure…you really liked it you said."
Noah nodded, "I did. It was a lot of fun. But um…for our final project we had to make a documentary-type short film."
Olivia frowned, "You didn't tell us that…"
"I know." He said with a smile, "There's a reason for that."
"Wait a second…" Elliot pointed a finger at his son, "Does this have something to do with the random questions you asked me about and filmed me for?"
Noah nodded slowly, a smile growing on his face, "Yes…"
"Oh. Yeah…" Olivia said looking back at him, "I didn't realize it was for a project though." She paused and then smiled, "Noah…what is this?"
"We got to pick our topic." He said leaning back, "And I chose to make a film and interview different people about what family means to them."
From the couch, both Olivia and Elliot sat up a little straighter, "Noah…"
"And…I got a great grade on this. So much so that my professor wants to show it at an amateur film festival this summer but I'd need your permission because two of my main stars are underage…"
Charlie looked back at them excitedly, "He means us! We're the stars!"
Elliot had to laugh, "Is that so?"
Brooklyn batted her eyelash, "I think I want to be a movie star now!"
Olivia looked at her daughters and smiled, "Of course you do…I'm not surprised, one-bit baby." She paused, "So…you interviewed your sisters too?"
Noah nodded, "I did. I think you'll see a lot of familiar faces in this actually." He cleared his throat, beginning to get a bit over-emotional, "And I wanted to save this surprise for today. Because this film was dedicated to you. My Mom…" He smiled softly at her, "And…my Dad. The two most important people in my life. This…was for you and I hope you like it."
He turned and quickly pressed play before sitting down beside his sisters. Olivia held her breath and leaned her shoulder into her husband's chest. His arm wrapped around her from behind, holding her close as a familiar song began to play through the speakers, and then their son's voice as pictures of their family and other families and friends they knew well filtered through the screen.
You say there's so much you don't know
You need to go and find yourself
"Family. Everyone has one but they all look different. Some people will tell you that family is only the people who share your blood. The people who bring you into this world, who are responsible for your existence. But I've learned over the years that family can also be the people you choose. The people who show up when you need them no matter what. The people who never let you down. And family can look different for everyone…family are the people who help you grow. Family in my opinion…is everything."
Tears already brimmed in Olivia's eyes, "El…"
He cleared his throat softly beside her, leaning in, "I'm right here."
You say you'd rather be alone
'Cause you think you won't find it tied to someone else
"What does family mean to you?"
Ashton suddenly appeared on the screen from the firehouse, "Family…family means different things to me. My family…is my wife. And my three kids. They're my heart and soul ya know? They are my reason for getting up each day…for doing what I do. But…family is also for me…the firehouse. The men and women who are part of my team. I trust them more than anyone. Especially your Dad…Elliot may not be blood. But he's my brother. No doubt about that. So I guess family is…the people who mean the most to you. The people you know will have your back through thick and thin. The people who will be there on your worst days and your best."
A loud crash echoed behind him and then a loud "Sorry boss!"
Ashton chuckled, "And…family can also sometimes be the people that drive you absolutely crazy. The ones you wanna throw darts at any given moment…but you still love them. That…that's family."
He ran out to pretend to tackle the guys in the firehouse and laughter ensued while pictures of Elliot and the team crossed across the screen.
Ooh, who said it's true
That the growing only happens on your own?
They don't know me and you.
"Auntie A, what does family mean to you?"
"Well…family is everything. Family to me are my parents, my cousins, my aunts and uncles, and my grandparents. My husband Matt, and my two amazing kids. That's my blood family."
"Do you have more than just your blood family?"
"I have my sister, Olivia. Your Mom. She's been my best friend and my sister since the day I met her Freshman year. And then she had you and I became an Aunt. I became an Aunt again to Brooklyn and Charlie too. You are my chosen family. The people I knew I couldn't live without. The people who get me the most, sometimes better than my own flesh and blood. So family…can be a lot of different things. But mostly, they are the wildest, funniest, craziest group of people who may drive you crazy but also make life worth…living. That's what family means to me."
"Uncle Fin, Uncle John, and Grandpa Don, what does family mean to you?"
"Well…Marge was my family. The love of my life. She was my whole world."
"What about you Uncle John?"
"I guess I've had quite a few families over the years."
"What he means is he's been married 100 times." Fin chimed in.
From the couch, Olivia and Elliot laughed.
"My family life growing up was always complicated, so I guess I looked for more stability in my wives. But I haven't quite figured it out yet. Family…can be complicated. But if you find it…pretty amazing. And for those that find it…those are the lucky ones."
"What do you think Uncle Fin?"
"I agree that family is complicated. Doesn't always pan out the way you expect it to. But..here at work, we're a family. The most dysfunctional family you'll ever meet but I know this squad…they're my brothers and sisters. That's my family."
I don't think you have to leave
If to change is what you need
You can change right next to me
"Grandma B, what does family mean to you? What do you love most about your family?"
"Well, family can be beautiful. And sometimes…it can be complicated, sometimes even the people who make you feel at your lowest. But under the surface, the true meaning of family is having someone to lean on. Family should be the people that love you at your worst and your best. It doesn't always work out that way…but I got lucky with that in the end. Took a while to get there…but your Dad, your Mom, you, and your sisters, you are the best things in my life. The brightest lights to who accept me at my best and my worst. And that is what I love most. I love every moment I spend with you five. That…that is family."
When you're high, I'll take the lows
You can ebb and I can flow
And we'll take it slow
And grow as we go
Grow as we go…
Scene after scene of different people filtered through the screen. Friends of Noah's, people who had all different types of families. Even stranger's he'd asked to be a part of the documentary. All different people from all over the city, all with different definitions and ideas of what family looked like and what it meant to them.
"Alright Tyler, what makes a family? What is important to you?"
Noah's boyfriend filled the screen and he smiled, "Family…family should be the people that accept you for who you are. Even if aren't quite what society says you should be. Family should be the people that love you no matter what and also the people who will have your back when the rest of the world wants to tear you down. That is what makes a family to me. That's what's important."
You won't be the only one
I am unfinished, I've got so much left to learn.
I don't know how this river runs
But I'd like the company through every twist and turn
"Alright B, what do you love most about our family?"
"You mean like Mom, Dad, you and Charlie?"
"Yeah. What do you love most about all of us?"
"Well…I love that Mom always knows exactly what to say to make me feel better. And that she is super smart and nice to everyone. I love that Mom is my best friend."
"What about Dad?"
"Daddy makes me feel safe. And he is strong and takes care of all of us. He's also really silly and fun. He's the best."
"And what do you love about having a brother and sister?"
"I like that you help me with my dance and my pictures. And you always read to me if Mom or Dad has to work late. And…you give the best hugs."
"Thanks B, what about having a sister."
From behind the couch, a giggle could be heard on the screen and Brooklyn huffed, "I don't know…"
Noah laughed, "Come on…there has to be something you love about having a sister."
Charlie jumped up, draping herself over the couch and her sister, "Come on Brookie! You love me!"
Everyone watching started to laugh and on the screen Brooklyn smiled, "I guess…she makes me laugh. But she also makes me angry…"
Charlie flipped over and Brooklyn pushed her away, "But I make life fun! Right? Don't I? Don't I make life fun?"
Brooklyn looked at her, "You make life loud Charlie. Really loud."
Noah chuckled, "Alright Charlie, your turn. What do you like most about our family?"
Charle's feet kicked back and forth, "I like that Mommy is a superhero. And she is super strong and brave."
"She definitely is. What else?"
"She also gives the best snuggles when I'm sad and always, always makes me smile. I love her."
"And what about Dad? What do you love about Dad?"
"Daddy makes me laugh. And I love playing football and soccer with him. It's really fun when I get to hang out with him. And…I also like that he lets me be silly. That's my favorite."
"And what about being a sister? What's the best part?"
Charlie's face flushed, "Well…I guess I like that I have two friends at home. Even when I'm annoying." She looked over at her sister, "Because you and Brookie are my best friends. And I love you."
A moment later, Noah appeared and scooped up his sister, "I love you too kiddo." He reached for his other sister, "I love both of you."
The girls screeched and Ember jumped up on the couch, tackling the three of them, "I love Ember too! Ember's family!" Charlie yelled under the pile of them.
"Ember's always family." Noah said with a laugh as he pet the dog beside him, "She's absolutely family."
Ember barked and the four of them fell onto the couch again laughing as the screen cut to pictures of the four of them over the years.
Ooh, who said it's true
That the growing only happens on your own?
They don't know me and you.
"Alright, Dad…what do you love most about Mom?"
Elliot was outside washing his truck as he looked up at his son, "You want me to pick one thing?"
"Okay…so tell me what you love about Mom. Whatever comes to mind."
Elliot sighed, rubbing the back of his neck and leaning against the side of the truck, "I love so many things about your Mom. I mean to start…she's the most beautiful woman in the world. Not just on the outside…but on the inside. And…" The smile on his face grew as he thought about his wife, "I love her fireceness, how determined she is. Once she sets her mind to something…she won't give up until she gets it ya know? She's strong. Fierce. Doesn't let anyone tell her she can't do something. She's funny…and kind. She puts her kids above everything else. And she fights…for what is right. She's…the best woman I know. The best person I know. And I'm damn lucky she picked me." He paused, snapped out of his daze and looked over at her, "Why are you asking me all this?"
Noah started to back away, "Just wondering…"
You don't have to leave
If to change is what you need
You can change right next to me
When you're high I'll take the lows
You can ebb and I can flow and we'll take it slow
And grow as we go…
Grow as we go
Grow as we go…
"Mom, can I ask you something real quick?"
Olivia looked up from trying to tackle Charlie into her boots, "What's up?"
Charlie ran off after Ember and Noah called from behind his camera, "What do you love most about Dad?"
Olivia laughed, "Why are you asking me that?"
"Just humor me. What do you love most about Dad?'
Olivia took a deep breath, "What do I love most about your Dad? Hmm…I don't know if I can narrow it down to one thing. But…" She reached for her coat, ready to leave for the day, "I love that…your Dad is a constant in my life. That…he's always there when I need him. When you…or your sisters need him. He never hesitates. Everything he does is for this family. I love that he…loves me, even at my worst. And that he always believes in us…he believed in us long before I did. And if he hadn't…then we wouldn't have this family. I love him for the man he is…the man I met and the man he will continue to be. I just…I love everything about him."
"Mom! I spilled juice on my new shirt!"
Olivia laughed and looked towards her youngest daughter, "And that is my cue…"
"One more thing, real quick."
Olivia looked back at her son, "Yeah?"
"Are you happy it's not just team Noah and Mom anymore?"
Another loud crash sounded from the kitchen, Ember barked, Elliot was trying to calm the girls and Olivia laughed, "It's a lot louder…but yeah babe. I'm happy it's not just team Noah and Mom. Thanks for making me see that it wouldn't be so bad."
I don't know who we'll be come
I can't promise it's not written in the stars
The screen cut to pictures of Olivia and Elliot in the beginning of their relationship. Pictures of just the two of them and with Noah. Then their wedding, the birth of the girls, the life they'd created. And then it cut to black before it showed Noah on his bed ready to answer questions of his own.
"Hi, my name is Noah Benson Stabler and I put together this film. I was born as Noah Porter Benson. And at the time…my Mom was on her own. My biological Father…chose not to be a part of my life. And for seven years…it was just me and my Mom. We had Auntie A, Uncle Fin, other friends and family. But at the end of the day…it was just us. And the truth is…my Mom is the strongest, most amazing woman I have ever known. Without her, I'd be nothing. She's my hero and the reason I am who I am…I owe her everything."
Pictures of the two of them from the time he was a baby began to fill the screen as he continued to talk over them.
But I believe that when it's done
We're gonna see that it was better…
That we grew up together…
"Mom thinks I don't know how much she sacrificed to have me. And I guess I may never know the full extent of it. But…what I do know is that my Mom always put me first. She was young when she had me. She could have given me up. But she kept me. And she did everything she could to give me the best life. She often thinks it wasn't enough…but I hope that she knows that to me…it was everything. I couldn't have asked for a better childhood. I hope she knows…that I love her more than anything, more than anyone. And even though it's not just team Noah and Mom anymore…I know that we'll always have those years and I'm so grateful for that."
Tell me you don't wanna leave
'Cause if change is what you need
You can change right next to me…
"My biological Father…was never a part of my life. I don't think of him as my Dad. I never have. I may have his blood in my veins…but my Dad, my real Dad, his name is Elliot Stabler. And he came into Mom's and my life unexpectedly. But I think if you asked her she'd agree that he's the best thing that ever happened to us. From day one I knew I could count on him. He was there whenever he said he would be. Even when my Mom wasn't sure…he was there. Always right there. And when my biological Dad came back…Elliot, my Dad, was still there. He fought for me. For Mom. And after that…things changed. For the better. My Mom and Elliot got married. And he adopted me. And I realized that family isn't blood…it's the people who show up. It's the people who love you for who you are. It's the people…that you can count on through thick and thin. Neither one of my parents had easy childhoods…neither of them had two parents who were always there. They had to question a lot of things…and it's clear that with their own children they made sure to ensure we never had to question how important and loved we are. They made sure our lives…were better than the ones they had."
When you're high, I'll take the lows
You can ebb and I can flow
And we'll take it slow…
"Family looks different for everyone. It can be your blood or the people you choose. But the one thing I do know is that family…is everything. My family has changed a lot over the years…"
Pictures of the five of them and Ember filled the screen and by now, Olivia and Elliot were both a blubbering mess, leaning into each other.
"But I love everything about my crazy, loud, often chaotic family. We've been through a lot. More than some others. Really hard days. Scary days. But at the heart of it, my Mom and my Dad…they are my constants. They are what keeps us going. And in making this film I realized…how lucky I am to call them my parents. So Mom…Dad…thank you for the life you've given me. The life you've given Charlie and Brooklyn too. Thank you for showing me what family means. Thank you for loving each other. For loving us. And thank you for helping us grow every step of the way. This one was for you."
More pictures filtered through the screen as the music played ending with a final picture of Olivia, Elliot and Noah. The first picture they'd taken together at Noah's birthday at Coney Island all those years ago…
And grow as we go…
Grow as we go…
Grow as we go…
Brooklyn, Charlie, Bernie and Noah all turned to Elliot, neither one of them were able to keep their tears from falling.
Noah swallowed the lump in his throat, "You said today was about me…but it's about us. I'm better because of you two…because of the years Mom and I had together. And the years after when you showed up, Dad. Thank you. For…everything."
"Noah…" Olivia pressed a hand into her chest, "Noah, I…I don't even know what to say."
"Did you like it?" Brooklyn asked, "We had to keep the secret forever!"
Olivia wiped the tears out of her eyes, "It was…so beautiful. And…amazing. I…" She stood up slowly and walked toward her son, pulling him off of the ground, "I love you so much. I'm so proud of you. And so…so grateful to call you my son."
Noah squeezed her tight, "I'll never be able to thank you for everything…but I hope you know now how much I appreciate you."
She smiled and held his face in her hands, "I've always known babe. Always."
Charlie looked at her Dad, who looked too overwhelmed to speak, "Daddy? Are you okay?'
All eyes turned to the usual stoic man on the couch, "Yeah baby, I'm good." Sniffling slightly, he wiped at his tears and stood up, clearing his throat he walked toward Olivia and Noah, the two he hadn't seen coming, the two that had turned his world upside down, the two that gave him this life, this family and he'd never loved them more.
Pulling them both into his arms he squeezed tight, "I love you kid. I just…I love you. Thank you…"
The three of them stood there a moment, reliving all the years they'd had together. All the years they'd spent as a family, even before it was official. A moment later, the girls came running, Elliot picked them both up, Noah tickled their sides and over their kids heads, Elliot smiled at his wife mouthing three simple words.
"I love you."
Tears brimmed in her eyes as she looked at him, listening to their kids laughing, and she sighed happily. So damn grateful she had let this wonderful man in.
"I love you too…"
Two months later…
It was early, really early but years of waking up for work and checking on the kids kept her internal clock consistent. Even on the mornings when she had nowhere to be. As she sat on her son's empty bed, Ember laying beside her, right where she'd found the faithful dog, she was struck by the absence of her son.
Yesterday they'd gotten home from dropping him off at college. They'd driven down as a family, spent the weekend and explored the new city. Noah was over the moon all weekend, clearly ready and excited. But as the minutes had ticked by, she felt like a little piece of her heart was being ripped from her chest. Noah was a constant for eighteen years. The first person she could ever fully count on to be there…and being apart from him was hard.
Being this far, for this long, was going to be even harder.
Wiping a tear away she thought back to those last moments. Watching him say goodbye to his sisters who didn't want to let go was emotional. Then it had come to Elliot and she could barely speak.
Elliot had reached for him, a pit forming in his throat as he held him close and whispered, "I'm so damn proud of you kid. Go get 'em."
And Noah, with tears in his eyes, had hugged him back, squeezing tight and all she saw was the seven-year-old boy who had hugged him when he first met him before whispering, "I love you Dad. Take care of Mom for me?"
She'd had to turn away but heard her husband whisper, "Always. I love you too."
And Elliot being Elliot had known that just like that day she'd told Noah about her relationship with Elliot, she needed to do this alone. They needed this moment. He'd kissed her cheek, lifted both girls and carried them out into the hallway leaving Mother and son to say their goodbyes.
"So…"
Olivia smiled reaching for him, brushing his curls out of his face, "So…"
He took a deep breath and reached for her hand, "We had a hell of a ride you and me, don't you think?"
She laughed and took a step closer to him, "I'd have to agree."
"But…then again it's not over? Just…going to be a bit different here on out?"
Biting hard on her limp a pained cry left her throat, "Noah…"
"Different doesn't always have to be bad though, right?"
She knew he was remembering how things had changed when she began dating Elliot, "No. It doesn't."
Noah looked down, "Remember that first time I left for a few days with Liam and his family? How I was so excited but I was nervous too?"
Of course she remembered. She'd been a nervous wreck to let him go for that long over night. And now she'd go months without seeing him. That had also been the day she'd met Elliot.
"I remember…"
"I was really scared…excited but scared. Do you remember what you told me? If something happened…or if I needed you."
She stood up a little straighter and whispered, "I told you that I'd break every speeding law in the world to get to you. That I'd charter a plan if I had too. Because nothing could ever keep me from you if you needed me."
"Still true?"
"Still absolutely true. Only this time I won't come alone. I'll have Dad too. We'll be here in a flash as soon as we get the call."
Tears welled in his eyes just like they had that day, "Promise?"
She smiled, lifted her hand just like she had that day, and nodded, "Pinky promise."
He smiled, wrapped his finger around hers and squeezed tight before pulling her in for a hug, "I love you Mom. Thank you for everything."
She sighed, closed her eyes and held on wishing she never had to let go but knowing it was time, "I love you my boy. More than you will ever know. Thank you for making me a Mom."
Pulling back she wiped at his tears and then her own, "See you soon?"
She nodded slowly, "See you soon, babes. You've got this."
And with that, she'd stepped out into the hall, buried her face in Elliot's chest and held on tight as he let her cry. When she was ready, he took her hand, reached for the girls and the four of them walked down the hall leaving Noah to face his next great adventure.
On his bed, Ember whined, lifting her head to rest on Olivia's knee, "I know Em, I miss him too."
"I thought I might find you two in here…"
Both Olivia and Ember turned their heads to the doorway where Elliot stood, leaning against the wood frame. His skin was still flushed from sleep, his hair sticking up in a few places, the scruff full on his face. His sweatpants hung low on his hips, the V of his muscles prominent and her heart skipped a beat. Just like it did that first day she saw him, even if she tried to pretend otherwise.
"I got up and couldn't find Ember…came looking and she was here."
Elliot nodded slowly, rubbing the back of his neck as he walked towards both of them. Sitting down on the ground, he pulled his knees up, resting his elbows on them, "She's used to being with him every night…will be hard for her too."
Olivia smiled and scratched the old girl behind her ear, "Hm…"
He let her have her silence, sitting in her thoughts before he reached out and squeezed her ankle, "Hey…"
She smiled, tears welling up in her eyes but she smiled, "Hey…" She sniffled softly, "You know what I was just thinking about?"
He smiled and ran his fingers along her ankle, "What?"
"I was thinking about how much harder this would be if it was just me still…how alone I'd feel."
He smiled and scooted closer, running his hand up to her calf, "Then I guess it's a good thing you aren't alone anymore, right?"
"A damn good thing." She paused and looked at Ember again, "The first time I was away from Noah…really far away, was also the day I met you." Biting down hard on her lip her voice cracked softly, "I remember I went back to the apartment after Liam's parents picked him up and I crawled into bed. Ready to sleep away all the days without him because I felt like I had no one." She turned towards him, "And then Alex showed up…and dragged me out of my bed. Forced me to go to the benefit. And next thing I knew…I was running smack down into the most handsome man I'd ever met."
He smiled, leaning forward, "If I remember correctly…you didn't seem that impressed with me that day."
She laughed and leaned down, kissing him softly, "Yeah well…I'm a good actress." He laughed and she sighed, "I'm grateful she dragged me out that day because if she hadn't…I'd be crawling under the covers hiding until the next time I get to see him. But now…I have you and the girls to keep me going."
He smiled and slipped his hand into hers, "I'm right here, Liv. I'm gonna be here every step of the way."
She smiled, slipping off the bed as she reached for him, pulling him and leading him towards their room. "You always are."
Ember hopped down from the bed, walking behind them, her paws scratching against the wood floor. Elliot let her lead him into the bedroom, he reached for her, wiggling his eyebrows, suggestively. She laughed, pushing him away just as the girls came running down the hallway, both of them giggling.
"Sorry Stabler, that will have to wait. We've got plans."
He frowned and leaned back, feeling confused. He thought they would be home all day, "Plans? What plans?"
Brooklyn was jumping from foot to foot, "Come on Daddy! We can't be late!"
Elliot looked at her, "Late for what?"
"It's race day, Daddy! Let's go!" Charlie chimed in.
Elliot turned back to his wife just as she tossed him one of his FDNY shirts, "Race day?"
She smiled, "The event got postponed because of weather in July. Found out it was today and felt like it was time we had a rematch. Settle the score once and for all."
His fingers curled around the shirt, "Liv…"
She shrugged, lifting her shoulder, "You in?"
He smirked, leaning in as he kissed her, "Oh, it's on Benson. I'm gonna beat you this time."
She chuckled, "In your dreams Stabler. I'm gonna kick your butt just like the first time."
He laughed as he watched her turn towards the girls, chasing them down the hallway. All he could think was that she had been the biggest surprise of his life and even now she was still surprising him and somehow he knew she always would.
Standing at the starting line, Elliot peered over to see Ashton and Alex with the girls and Ember. The very two people that had dragged Olivia and Elliot out that day. Who had pushed them together, believed in them the most. So much had changed since that day. His world had been tipped upside down and he was so damn grateful he had known she was worth it, so worth it he hadn't given up.
"Hey sweetie…" Olivia whispered, walking up to him as she pinched his ass.
He jumped, pulling himself out of his daze, "Geez, Liv." She started to laugh, "You know I called you sweetie that day and you nearly ripped my head off."
"Oh, I know. It's exactly why I said it." She said with a smirk as she stretched. "I remember it all."
He bent forward, stretching beside her too, "So do I."
"So you remember that I absolutely crushed you, right? Just like I'm going to do today."
"You seem quite sure of yourself. You think I can't beat you?"
She smirked, remembering he'd said the same thing, "Oh, I know you can't beat me." The announcer called out for them to get in their positions, "Eat my dust firefighter guy."
The moment the horn blared, they both took off. And just like last time, Elliot took the lead at first, until the second turn when he stumbled. He heard her chuckling as she caught up to him, "Got a cramp again?"
He huffed as he ran beside her, "No cramps."
"Darn. Was hoping you had another ring in those sneakers of yours."
He laughed so hard remembering his proposal that he stumbled again and she then took the lead and he knew there was no catching up to her this time. As he followed behind, he thought about the year he'd spent chasing her down. A year of trying to make her see how good they could be. Some would say he was crazy for waiting as long as he did but as they rounded the corner, hearing the girls cheering for them he knew he'd made the exact right choice.
He was right where he should be.
He took a deep breath, trying to give himself one last push but it was Olivia who crossed the finish line first just like that first day. She turned back to him, arms raised high as the annoncer yelled, "Detective Benson wins!"
This time they'd both crossed the log over the mud, neither of them falling. Elliot took a deep breath, "You gonna gloat now?"
She laughed, taking a few slow breaths, "Nah…I knew I'd win anyway. Besides…" She smiled and shrugged, "Even if I didn't win the race…I think I won the best prize years ago."
He smiled and reached for her, "Is that so?"
She smirked, lifted her hand and pushed as hard as she could. He fell back with a splash in the mud, as he breached the surface he went to reach for her but she beat him to it, jumping over him and cannonballing into the mud right beside him. They both laughed and she wrapped herself around him, holding tight, "I won the day I met you. Even if I wasn't ready to admit it."
He beamed at her as two shadows passed over them. A second later, Ember and Charlie breached the surface, "I love you."
She smiled and wiped some of the mud from him, "I love you too."
Olivia turned to reach for their youngest and Elliot turned to see Brooklyn standing wearily on the edge, "Come on B…you know you want too."
She fidgeted slightly, "But…but I'll get my dress all dirty."
Charlie flopped backwards, looking happier than ever to be in the mud, "Come on Brooklyn! It's the best!"
Olivia laughed, "I can wash it Brooklyn…you'll live, I promise."
She still looked unsure and Elliot smiled, wading towards her, he touched her foot and she gasped, "You don't have too. But you know I'll protect you every step of the way, right?"
From behind him, Olivia smiled. That was such an Elliot thing to say she thought. He had done the same for her, never pushed too hard, but let her know she had a safe place to fall when she was ready and no matter what happened, he'd have her back.
Brooklyn looked up at her Mother who smiled at her, "Your choice, babe."
Brooklyn smiled, looked back at her Dad, took a deep breath and jumped and of course, her Father caught her. She shrieked and Charlie laughed, splashing her sister excitedly. Ember swam laps around them and amongst the chaos of it all, Elliot reached for Olivia's hand under the mud and squeezed tight, giving her a wink.
They'd practically had to drag Charlie out of the mud and Brooklyn had burst into tears when she felt it drying in her hair. After they rinsed everyone off as best they could, Charlie had fallen asleep in her Father's arms as Brooklyn walked ahead with Ember.
Elliot reached for his wife's hand and smiled asking, "So, what now Benson?"
She smiled and squeezed his hand tight in hers, "Take me home firefighter guy…take me home."
He smiled and wrapped his arm around her, dropping a kiss to the top of her head. Knowing that this time when he took her home, it was their home, not his. And this time, she wouldn't run. This time they were in this, together. And no matter what happened next…they'd continue to grow together every step of the way.
The end.