After court is dismissed...
Stabler, Benson, and Goren are standing in a small circle when they are joined by Carver, Novak and Eames.
"Way to hand Summers his balls," Elliot says to Alex.
"It was an excellent answer," Carver adds.
"What can I say? I'm just getting sick of that question," Alex replies.
"That makes two of us," Olivia says with a laugh.
"It was a good day," Casey chimes in, "But tomorrow Mr. Platt is taking the stand."
"So, if you'll excuse us Detectives," Carver says, "Miss Novak and I need to prepare," he waits for Casey to moves first. They walk off, matching strides with each other.
"They look so strange side by side," Elliot remarks.
"Ebony and alabaster," Bobby says.
"Alabaster? I thought it was ebony and ivory," Alex asks.
"Well, it's her skin. It's not really ivory. It's more. Creamy. But it seems to have a radiance all its own."
Olivia laughs, "Sounds like someone's got a crush."
"It's nothing like that. I'm just. Observant."
"Sure Bobby. I believe you," Alex says mockingly.
"I hate to break up this fun," Olivia adds, "But I'm beat. And we've got a long day tomorrow. Filled with sitting."
"Wait for me. We'll split a cab," Alex says.
They wave their good byes to Elliot and Bobby.
Elliot sighs, "It's going to be an even longer night."
The two men start walking.
"What exactly does that mean?"
"Because tonight my friend, I have to go and talk to my ex and tell her where and when I'm going to pick up my kids this weekend."
"Wouldn't it be easier, and less painful, to just. Call?"
"Yes and no. Yes due to the fact I don't have to see her and she stands outside when we talk."
"And no because..."
"My kids grab the phone. They tell me how much they miss me. Pretty hard not seeing them everyday."
They are standing outside. Elliot is checking his watch and looking around.
"At least that's someone to talk to," Bobby says.
"Sometimes. But being alone...how do you stand it?"
"I can't. I read...I go out. I give off this. Appeal of intelligence and culture. But at the end of the day, I'm just a man. A man that lives alone. But, I can cook. So I can feed myself at least."
"That's one up on me. It's usually take out. Not good for the waist line."
"Amen to that."
A young woman starts waling towards them. She waves to Elliot. He smiles and welcomes her with a hug.
Bobby notices the girl's eyes are exactly the same color as Elliot's. She gives him a warm smile.
"Where are my manners? Maureen, this is Detective Robert Goren. Detective Goren, this is Maureen, my oldest daughter."
Bobby shakes her hand, "It's lovely to meet you. Your father talks about you so much. And that picture he has, it doesn't do justice to your beauty," he flashes her a smile.
She blushes a bit and smiles back, "Well, thanks so much. It's nice to meet you too, Detective Goren."
"Bobby."
"Bobby it is. Dad, we need to get going."
"I'm sorry. Am I keeping you two?"
Elliot jumps in, "Remember when I said I can't cook. She's my solution."
"I see. Well, I must be off then. Elliot, tomorrow. And again, Maureen. A pleasure. I hope we meet again."
Bobby walks away in the opposite direction.
"Probably should stick to guys not old enough to be your father," Elliot scolds.
"Wow! He's your age. Looks at least ten years younger."
"Even with all that grey hair."
"Yeah. Cause he has it all."
Maureen laughs as Elliot playfully shoves her.
"Come on Dad, I was just messing with you."
"Well, that wasn't funny. Doesn't matter, just as long as you're not interested."
"Who says I'm not?"
"Maureen..."
"Dad, please. Let's just get back to your place...So you can have one last meal before Mom rips you to shreds."
He nods, "How is she?"
"Well, her and the boyfriend are looking at a house to buy together. I'm not staying with them...Ever."
"She is your mother."
"And I'm an adult. I'm allowed to be angry. Just a little."
"I suppose so. But, don't be to hard on her."
"I won't. As long as you aren't."
"Sometimes I think you're the adult and I'm the child seeking guidance."
"Guess that means I'm all grown up..."
They both exchange glances, "Nah."