Interlude – Stabler

Elliot was in the middle of loading a plate with hamburger patties when Kathy came out onto the patio with the cordless in her hand.  "It's Olivia," she said, unable to hide the reproach in her voice.  He had promised her, nothing work-related for the rest of the weekend. 

Elliot wiped his hands on his apron, took the phone from his wife.  "What's up Liv?"

"We got him, Elliot," she told him.

"Hot damn.  What happened?" he asked, grinning.

"He tried a home invasion at Serena's apartment.  I was checking up on her, just happened to be there.  I had to shoot him." 

Elliot sobered.  "I'm sorry."

"Yeah."

"Everyone okay?"

"We're all fine, except Pooler.  He's in surgery right now."

"All right.  Let me know how it turns out," said Elliot.  He wanted to join his partner to support her, but knew she would tell him to stay with his family.  "You did good, Liv," he added before hanging up.

"Everything all right?" asked Kathy. 

"Everything's great," said Elliot.  He kissed his wife and followed her inside, hamburgers in hand.