Chapter Nine: Back to You

Olivia

I jumped at the sound of my buzzer. We'd wrapped early today, Elliot has the kids for the weekend and I was exhausted from arguing with Casey over the Patterson case. Cragen took one look at us and said he'd get Munch and Fin to cover the rest of the shift. Elliot and I parted ways in the company lot, he offered to drive me home but I know he wanted to get to the kids… he's been looking forward to it all week. I catch the underground home, and actually find myself brightening at the sight of my yellow kitchen. Turns out you were right, as usual. It does look like a sunrise… and it's nice to come home to, even on a day like today.

I'd just settled in for the night, finished dinner and cleanup.. changed into a pair of comfy pants and a tank top. I was settling in to watch a movie when the buzzer jarred my peace. It pains me how much I'm annoyed by the interruption… before you started your redecorating spree, I swore I'd never own a television. I get enough news at work… I don't need to watch it on the screen too. When you showed up that first Christmas with the TV, dvd player, entertainment stand and dvds I decided you were crazy. But I let you in anyway, and even took over the construction of the unit. I love you, but you're useless with power tools…. well useless with most power tools anyway. Thinking of that makes me grin, and my smile plays across my lips as I move towards the door to find out who's bothering me at 11pm on a Friday night.

Alex

It was easier than I expected to lose Hammond. Even he had to admit I'd be safe with you by my side… or rather with me by yours. He insisted on having one of his minions drive me to your apartment… reluctant to let me out of his sight, even to an assistant, but he has things to attend to. I con the low-level fed into helping me fool you. With all of this coming to a close, I'm finally starting to see pieces of humanity in some of these people. I think to some of the team I'm actually more than just a ward. I might even be approaching human status with a few of them.

"This better be important" Your voice answers the buzzer. I knew you wouldn't just open the door. That's why I convinced Rosco to help me.

"Detective Benson? I'm Jason Rosco, from the Federal Protection Bureau. Agent Hammond asked me to stop by and deliver some papers pertaining to an old case. He said you'd know the one I mean."

You sound annoyed still, probably angry that it's some paperboy instead of me. I can't wait to see your face when you open the door. "Come on up."

"Thanks Rosco. And remember, not a word to Hammond. Detective Benson will bring me in on Monday to meet with the ADA."

"No problem, Miss Regis. – Sorry. Miss Cabot." Rosco's not a bad guy. One of the more human of Hammond's crew. He turns to leave before I think of one last favor…

"Rosco? If Agent Hammond feels the need to … verify my safety in the next couple of days—discourage him… allright?"

I can see a twinkle in his eyes. I know he's imagining his own problems finding a private moment with his boyfriend while working Hammond's crew. He's the one who first put the word 'fascist' in my head.

I slip in the door I've been holding open, and grab the elevator. I'll be getting enough exercise this weekend. I don't feel bad passing on the stairs.