A/N - There will be a time jump after this chapter!

They were sitting in the plane on their way back to New York. Olivia was sitting, looking out the window before the plane took off. She had a hand to her mouth and he knew she was trying not to laugh. Sighing, he looked over at her, "It wasn't that funny."

Looking over at him and bit down hard on her lip, "I'm sorry. You're right."

Elliot rolled his eyes, "Alright, fine let it out…"

She started to laugh harder and then whispered, "She started twitching when she saw you."

Elliot huffed and pressed his head into the back of the seat, "The third pat down was a bit extreme…"

"Aw I'm sorry babe." Leaning over she squeezed his arm and whispered, "Earl was a little rough on you too. I know. He didn't handle the goods with care…"

Elliot looked over at her and shifted in his seat, "No. He didn't. So don't get your hopes up. We aren't joining the mile high club on this trip."

The same flight attendant walked by him and cleared her throat, "What?"

Elliot grimaced and looked up at her, "Sorry…no that was a poorly timed joke." Olivia was sitting in her seat, laughing harder, "I'll be a model passenger. Won't even get up to pee. I'll hold it the whole time."

Clucking her tongue, she tugged at her jacket, "Good."

Olivia pressed her face into his shoulder and he laughed, "We may need to drive or take a boat on any future trip Liv. Sorry about that."

She smiled and kissed his cheek, "Or, you can just fly us there yourself."

Looking over at her he beamed with pride, "You still want me to continue my lessons?"

"Of course I do. You should go after all your dreams El. Plus…I happen to think it's really sexy." She growled in his ear.

Elliot smirked, "Can't fly and fuck you at the same time babe. I'm good but I'm not that good."

She laughed harder and threaded her fingers with his, "So…we'll save it for when we get back on the ground." Pausing, she shrugged, "But still in the back of the plane…"

Chuckling, he leaned in and kissed her softly, "God I love you."

The flight attendant happened to be walking by as they were kissing again, "And no kissing either."

Olivia pulled away and gave him a sympathetic look as he sighed, "Sorry El…" He was quiet for a moment and then she asked, "Despite the little flag on your name…it was worth it. Right?"

Turning his head softly he gave her a wink and lifted her hand, pressing her knuckles to his lips, "Damn worth it."

Leaning forward, she pressed her cheek against his shoulder and sighed happily, "Good."

Kissing the top of her head he felt his eyes begin to close as the plane began to move, getting ready to take off. Oh yes, it had been very worth it…

By the time they landed, they had both slept for most of the flight. Now that they were home, Olivia had that nervous energy again and he could sense it. When they exited the plane and promised the flight attendants they would not be going to Oregon anytime soon, they went to the baggage claim area. Itt was backed up and Olivia glanced around, needing a minute before they saw his kids, "I'm gonna run to the bathroom."

Elliot nodded, "Sure. I'll be right here."

He gave her a smile and she leaned in, giving him a kiss to reassure him before she walked away. It wasn't that she didn't want to see the kids. She just still had worries. It was a lot of changes for them all at once and their opinion meant the world to her. She wanted a future with Elliot, wanted to be a part of their life in whatever capacity they felt comfortable with most. And while Kathy had given up slightly, and given him full custody, apologized to her, she still feared problems in the future. It wasn't that she couldn't handle it. It was that she didn't want the kids to have to suffer because of it.

Standing in front of the mirror, Olivia leaned forward and splashed some cold water on her face, "Come on. Get it together Benson. You can do this."

"Olivia?" A voice beside her said.

Olivia stood up straighter and looked to her right, it was the very woman she had originally been sitting next to on the plane to Oregon, "Katherine…"

Katherine smiled and reached out to hug her, "I've been wondering what happened with you! Did you ever make it to Oregon?"

Olivia laughed and hugged her back, "I did! Just took a few detours first." Katherine gave her a pointed look and she smiled, "And…making up with my boyfriend."

"Oh I'm so glad to hear that!" She said, pressing a hand to her heart, "Love does conquer all doesn't it?"

"It does." Olivia said with a sigh, "You're right…" She paused, "Hey…how was the wedding?"

Katheirne beamed at her, "Oh it was beautiful. My granddaughter made the most stunning bride and it was so great to see all my family. And…meet new people."

Olivia cocked her head to the side and smiled, "Meet new people, huh?"

"Yes…" She said with a smile, "But I want to hear about your trip first…"

Elliot found all of their bags, and was settling them at his feet, waiting for Olivia to join him. He checked his watch and then his phone to see if the kids had texted him yet. He was just about to put his phone in his pocket when he heard a voice behind him.

"So tell me the medical bills for the fake heart attack I had were worth it." Elliot turned and smiled, "Did you get the girl?"

Elliot laughed and walked over to the man, "Jack…damn. It's good to see you."

Jack shook his hand and then clapped him on the shoulder, "Don't leave me hanging here…"

Elliot's face flushed and he smiled, "Yeah…I got the girl. Thanks to you."

Jack smiled and stepped back, "I'm glad to hear it."

Elliot frowned, "Listen, I'd like to cover the cost of any of the bills you had. Please, let me know what-"

"No, no." He said, shaking his head, "It was nothing at all. I wasn't there long. I explained the story and the Doctor was a bit of a hopeless romantic and let me go. All is good."

"Alright…well did you make it to Oregon?" He asked curiously. "I hope I didn't interrupt your plans?"

Jack shook his head, "No. I made it in plenty of time. Got to see my best friend's grandson get married. Been a part of his life since he was a young boy. And…"

Elliot raised an eyebrow, "And…?"

Jack smiled, "My wife…I miss her terribly. I have since she passed four years ago. Never thought I could be happy again."

Elliot's smile grew, "You met someone at the wedding…"

Looking behind Elliot he smiled, "I met someone wonderful at the wedding."

Elliot turned to see Olivia walking with another woman towards him and suddenly he knew, "No way…"

Olivia looked at Elliot and then the man behind her, "Oh my God…you're the guy that faked the heart attack."

"Jack." He said, reaching out to shake her hand, "And I'm glad to see things worked out with you and this son of a bitch." He winked at Katherine, "And I see you met my girlfriend too."

Olivia gasped, "Jack is the man you met at the wedding?"

Katherine smiled and then walked over to stand beside Jack, "He is indeed. I recognized him from when they carried him out on the stretcher. We got to talking…and I explained I was the woman sitting next to the woman Elliot was after. So, here we are."

Elliot moved and wrapped his arm around Olivia's shoulder, "What a small world."

Olivia leaned into him and smiled, "You look happy…"

Katherine looked over at Jack and sighed happily, "We are happy." She looked back at Olivia and asked, "Are you?"

Olivia's cheeks blushed and she nodded, turning her head to look at Elliot, "More than I thought possible…"

Elliot dropped a kiss to the top of her head, "Do you both live here in the city?"

Jack nodded, "Yes. In Lower Manhattan. Do you?"

"For now." Olivia said, rubbing Elliot's back affectionately, "Probably moving to Queens soon. But…we work in Manhattan."

"I would love to take you both out for dinner sometime." Elliot said, "As a thank you…you helped get us here."

"That would be wonderful. A little double date." Katherine said with a twinkle in her eyes, "What do you say honey?"

Jack smiled and nodded, "Sounds good to me."

After exchanging information, Elliot and Olivia carried their bags towards the main gate. The kids had texted and said they were outside waiting. Olivia was quiet as they walked. He could see his kids through the glass windows and suddenly he reached for Olivia's hand, "Liv, wait a second."

Turning back to him she frowned, "What's wrong?"

Pulling her close, he wrapped his hand in her hair and his thumb traced the curve of her cheek, "Nothing. I just want to remind you…how much we've grown in the last week. That…no matter what happens next we can do this. We want to do this."

She swallowed the lump in her throat, it was just like him to read her mind, "Elliot…"

Leaning in he whispered, "My kids adore you. They give their blessing and Kathy has let go. Even if she tries to start anything in the future…" He kissed her softly and said, "You and I are solid. And nothing is going to break this." Kissing her once more he whispered, "And even if you get scared and try to run…"

She shook her head and smiled, "I won't. But…if I do, you'll come after me. No matter how far I go, right?"

Leaning in, he kissed her cheek and whispered, "Just send me the miles and I'll follow you…"

Taking a deep breath, she slid her hand into his and squeezed, "Come on. We've got a future to start living…"

Elliot smiled and rolled the cart carrying their luggage forward, ready for whatever happened next. As soon as they came through the doors, the kids spotted them, "Hey!"

Elliot smiled and moved quicker, Olivia walking a little slower but still behind him nonetheless. The kids took their turns, one by one hugging Elliot and Olivia's heart soared when they reached for her after, "Welcome back Liv! It's so good to see you!"

Olivia looked at Elliot as she pulled away from Kathleen, "Thank you…it's good to see you all too."

"Feel good to be back home?" Maureen asked hopefully.

Olivia took a deep breath and looked around the busy New York street, "Absolutely."

"Good." Lizzie said tugging on her arm, "You're driving with me and the girls. Dad and Dickie can take the second car."

Elliot looked at his kids, "Wait-"

"No, no, no." Kathleen said quickly, "You've hogged her long enough. We want girl talk."

Elliot looked over at Olivia nervously, "You good with this?"

Olivia gave him a wink and let the girls lead her towards the car, "Yeah El. I'm good with this."

He let out a little sigh of relief and then turned to his son as the girls dragged Olivia away, "Looks like it's just you and me kid, ready?"

Dickie smiled, "You look happy Dad…"

Elliot was surprised by his son's response but slowly nodded, "I am happy Dickie…really happy."

Looking towards the car where the girls were, he saw Olivia laughing with his daughters. They were home. Finally home. And he finally knew they were going to be just fine.

In the car, Olivia was in the front seat while Maureen drove and Kathleen and Lizzie were in the back. The girls were singing loudly to some hit song on the radio and Olivia couldn't help but laugh. She didn't know the song but they were adorable and all she could think of was their Father singing and dancing along to music by the fire. And god did she love them just as she loved him…

The song ended and Maureen smiled, turning down the volume, "Sorry, that's one of our favorites."

"Don't apologize." Olivia said with a smile, "You should see the concerts I have in my shower when I think no one is around."

"Oh God, Dad does that too. And let me tell you, he does NOT hit the high notes well." Kathleen said with a laugh, "You two really are meant to be together."

Olivia's cheeks blushed and she looked down at her lap, "Hm…"

Maureen glanced over at Olivia and, "So…things are good?"

Clearing her throat, Olivia knew this was the part of the car ride where the girls would grill her for details. Ask her questions that may make her uncomfortable. But she also knew that they did it because they cared about their Father and wanted to make sure that Olivia was in this. She couldn't blame them for that. Just as he protected them, they would protect their Father at all costs. It was all part of being a family. Something she had never experienced and boy did she want too..

Looking over at Maureen, she smiled and nodded before glancing at the two girls in the back seat, "Things are very good."

"Dad was a mess while you were gone." Kathleen said softly, "He tried to hold it together…and he did. But we could see underneath it all that he was hurting. Really hurting."

Olivia swallowed the lump in her throat and turned slightly in her seat, "Well…I missed him very much while I was gone too. I'm not sure if you know this or not…but I wasn't running. I got-"

"We know." Maureen said with a smile, "Fin and John told us the story. We know you weren't really running."

"And that Dad was just an idiot who didn't think to check his pockets." Lizzie said with an eyeroll, "Men…"

The four girls started to laugh and then Olivia sighed, "Look I know that there have been a lot of changes for you all lately. Your Mom…being pregnant and Michael moving in-"

"We're…dealing with it." Kathleen said honestly, "She's our Mom. And we were mad for a while there…more so because she was trying to keep us from Dad but it seems like she's backed off now."

"Plus, we told her that if she tries to start anything again…we're not going to put up with it." Maureen said, "She can't keep us from him…" Maureen paused and then looked over at Olivia, "Or you…"

Olivia swallowed the lump in her throat and whispered, "There isn't part of you guys that hates me? Feels like I-"

"I'll admit that for a while…I thought that you were the reason they broke up." Lizzie said and the car got quiet, "But that was more my own hurt talking. Sure I want my parents to be together. But I think…more than that I want them to be happy. And they weren't happy together. They fought all the time and it was hard to watch. If they are happy with other people then I think that's for the best."

Olivia turned more to look right at his youngest daughter, "Lizzie…are you sure?"

Lizzie smiled and nodded her head, "Yeah. I'm sure. Besides…you've been in our life for as long as I can remember. And you've always been there when we needed you. Always there to support us when you didn't have to. So maybe in the end…we're actually the lucky ones. We get two parents, Olivia…and…" She cleared her throat, "Michael…we're working on that."

Olivia reached back and squeezed her knee, "I know it's hard…but if your Mom loves him and he's going to be the Father of your brother…it's good to try."

Lizzie smiled, "You're right."

Olivia looked at Kathleen and then at Maureen, "What about the two of you? You are older…you've known me longer."

Maureen looked at her sister in the rearview mirror, "I guess it's the same as Lizzie said. For a moment we may have felt that but we also know that you and Dad never crossed any lines. You wouldn't have done that. You respected Mom and their marriage. Mom cheated…that's on her. And that will take a minute to get over. But we're all doing the best we can do."

Olivia smiled, "That's very mature of you."

"I know." Kathleen said with a sigh, "Being mature is so annoying. It's easier to hate people."

Olivia laughed and looked at her, "Actually, I'll tell you a little secret, it takes more energy to hate people than it does to forgive. So…try and forgive your Mom okay? Someday you'll learn that when it comes to love…it makes you feel and do crazy things. And when you are hurt by someone you love…it can make you make choices you'd never make. Your Mother loves the four of you more than anything. She was hurt…and angry at your Dad and me and I can't say I fully blame her. But…if we're all going to make this work we need to forgive and start over."

"So does that mean you're not gonna clock Mom?" Kathleen asked.

"Kathleen!" Olivia said with a laugh as Maureen and Lizzie laughed, "Of course not!"

Maureen shrugged, "Fine…then I guess I shouldn't clock Tommy Brewster's ex who keeps trying to interfere with us getting together." She huffed, "See…being mature really is hard."

Olivia laughed and smacked her leg playfully, "You're going to give your poor Father a heart attack someday kid. You know that?"

"Oh. I know." Kathleen said with a smile, "At least he'll have someone to put him back together…cuz you're not going anywhere. Right?"

Olivia's face flushed and she whispered, "No. I'm not going anywhere…" The girls were quiet, "Your Dad means the world to me girls. I know you know that. I promise I won't hurt him."

"We're going to hold you to that." Maureen said with a smile, "But we trust you. We always have."

Olivia smiled and leaned back in her seat taking a deep breath as the city streets passed her by. It felt good to be home. And it felt even better to know that there was so much ahead of her, so much to be grateful for and excited about. It was all happening…

In the other car, Elliot was driving while Dickie sat in the front seat catching Elliot up on things he'd missed while he was gone. He couldn't help but smile as he listened to his son go on and on about his soccer practices, about his daughters at school. He felt proud of his kids and so thankful for them. He also couldn't help but think, he couldn't wait to live this with another child. A child with Olivia someday. That would be the ultimate dream…

Dickie looked over at his Dad, "So…I think that's about everything you missed."

Elliot smiled and reached out to squeeze his arm, "Thanks for catching me up. I'll have to remember to talk to Kathleen about that Tommy kid…"

Dickie laughed, "I figured. She's gonna kill me."

Elliot laughed and switched lanes as they drove through the city, "Nah, you're just looking out for your sister and I appreciate that. She will too, someday. That's what brothers are for."

Dickie cleared his throat and looked forward out the windshield, "Well…she'll have another brother soon enough."

Stopping at a redlight, Elliot's heart lodged in his throat and he looked over at his son, "Yeah…she will." Dickie didn't move and he gave him a moment, "Talk to me Dickie."

Dickie shifted in his seat and then sighed, "I mean I know I'll love the kid. That's not the problem…"

Elliot nodded slowly, "Okay…" His son went quiet again and he frowned, "I know that you were all upset with your Mom for a bit there. And I get it. I do…but I need you to remember she is your Mom. You only get one of those. She loves you and your sisters so much. And…while it may not make a whole lot of sense to you all, she was acting out of hurt. No I didn't cheat…but my relationship with Olivia was always a bit confusing and difficult for your Mom. And I understand that."

Dickie nodded, "Yeah…I know all that."

Elliot looked over at him quickly before turning his attention to driving again, "So…are you still mad at her?"

Dickie shook his head, "No…we're figuring all that out. It's more…"

"It's more what?" Elliot asked, "You know you can tell me anything."

Dickie sighed, "It's Michael…I'm having a hard time getting used to him. He's moving in soon and…it's not like he's not a nice guy. But…he's trying a bit too hard and it irritates me."

Despite having his own relationship, despite knowing he was moving in with Olivia, there was something difficult about knowing another man was moving into the house he had once lived in with his family, "I'm sure that he just wants to try and get to know you all better. He's going to be part of your life…and you need to try and give him a chance."

Dickie grimaced, "He keeps calling me sport…and I hate it."

Irritation filled his chest and Elliot had to remind himself that he had to be the bigger man here. He had to show his children how to show respect and learn to forgive. He was moving on with Olivia and they were accepting of her. So…they needed to try and learn to accept Michael too, "Well…I guess he's just trying to get to know you?"

Dickie looked over at him, "He's trying to be my Dad. And I already have one of those. No one can replace you."

Elliot's heart jumped in his chest and he smiled, "I'm glad you think so."

Dickie shrugged, "I'm gonna get used to him I'm sure…I just want him to understand that there are somethings…that are our things. And that my relationship with him will be different…not bad. Just…different."

Elliot nodded slowly, "Well…that's very mature of you bud. I'm proud of you."

"Plus…I don't want you to feel like I'm trying to replace you. Because I never could. And I don't want you to be hurt if I do become friends with him…" Dickie said softly.

Elliot pulled up in front of his building, parked the car and turned to his son, "Buddy…nothing is ever going to change the way I love you or your sisters. I want the four of you to be happy. Michael is clearly going to be part of your life just as Olivia is. And I'm sorry…I really am sorry that in the process you all have been hurt. That's the last thing I ever wanted. I never planned on any of this…but as you get older you'll learn that-"

"Life doesn't always go according to plan." Dickie said, "That's what Mom said…"

Elliot smiled sadly, "Well…she's right. I will always care about your Mom. And I'll be here to support her as best I can…it's just a bit different now. But I'm focused on making sure that the four of you feel loved and taken care of no matter what. That's all I care about really. If Micahel is making you uncomfortable…and you want me to talk to him-"

"No." Dickie said, shaking his head, "No…I can handle it." He tugged on his jacket, "I'm old enough."

Elliot smiled and leaned forward, pulling him in for a one armed hug before dropping a kiss to the top of his head, "I love you son. And nothing is going to change that. No matter what happens…no matter who does or doesn't come along…that is the one thing you can always count on."

Dickie smiled and leaned into his Father's embrace, "I know Dad. I know."

Pulling back, Elliot saw the girls pull in behind him and he smiled, "You ready? I'm starving…"

Dickie smiled and climbed out of the car, "Ready."

As soon as they stepped on the sidewalk, the girls were already arguing with Dickie and Elliot couldn't help but laugh. Some things changed…while others would always stay the same. And boy was he grateful for that. Olivia stepped up beside him, put her hand on his arm and whispered, "Everything okay?"

Elliot took a deep breath, turned from his kids and looked back at her. He took in the sight of her, her long brown hair cascading down her back, her bangs blowing slightly in the cool breeze. She watched him carefully, studying him and he knew she could read him better than anyone else. She always had. She was here. She was home. And he'd never felt so damn grateful in his life.

Wrapping his arm around her back, he pulled her close and kissed her, "Yeah Liv. Everything is okay. You're home now…you're here. With me. With my kids. What more could I ask for?"

She smiled and ducked her head against his chest when he pressed a kiss to her forehead, "I love you. It feels damn good to be home."

"I love you too." He whispered and moved to pull her towards the apartment, "And just for the record…you're never leaving again. Not unless I'm with you."

She smiled and let him pull her towards the steps, "I could be okay with that."

An hour later, they were sitting around the coffee table in Elliot's living room splitting pizza's. Elliot had his head hung low as the kids peppered Olivia with questions about what happened at the airport. She explained the situation and they were teasing him nonstop.

"God it's something out of a Nicholas Sparks movie." Kathleen laughed, "You've got it bad Dad…"

Elliot sighed and looked at his daughter, "Am I going to hear about this for the rest of my damn life?"

Everyone looked at him and then answered at the same time, "Yes."

He rolled his eyes and pretended to be angry, trying to push himself up off the couch, "Alright, you five can keep teasing. I'm just gonna go…but I won't get on a plane seeing as that's ruined for me now. Maybe a train or-"

Olivia laughed and grabbed his hm pulling him back down, "Oh sit down you big baby."

He looked over at her and spoke teasingly, "Remind me again why I went after you?"

Leaning forward she kissed him softly, "Because you love me. And you were lost without me."

He smiled and felt his cheeks flush but he nodded, "Oh. Right."

"He really was." Maureen said with a sigh, "He looked like a lost little puppy going through his days with his tail between his legs…"

"I did not." Elliot said with a laugh as the kids collapsed with laughter around him, "I was fine."

"No. You weren't." Kathleen said, rolling her eyes, "I mean yeah, you showed up for us. Did what you needed to do for us…to keep fighting for us. But…you were sad."

Elliot looked down, and Olivia covered his knee with her hand, "I did?"

Lizzie frowned, "Your eyes were sad…dark."

Elliot looked up at his daughter and frowned, "Lizzie…"

She smiled and shook her head, "But now they are bright again…and it's clear you are happy. And we know why…"

Elliot looked over at Olivia who was quiet, her own eyes glossed over with unshed tears, "Right now, in this room, I've got the five most important people in my life. I'm happy kid. Very happy."

"Well now that we've got that cleared up…" Dickie said with a sigh, "Can we discuss sleeping arrangements? I love you Dad…but if I'm gonna be living with you half the time now the pull out couch isn't gonna cut it."

Elliot laughed, "Yeah…well Olivia and I have been talking about that. A lot actually…" Rubbing the back of his neck he shrugged, "You guys need a house. One where you all have your own space and I'd like it to be near your schools which would mean going back to Queens."

Kathleen nodded slowly but smiled, "Queens…"

"Yeah. Queens. I don't want you having to go back and forth between the city and Queens just to get to school. It doesn't make sense. And it's not fair to you." He said.

"So…" Lizzie said, "A house. A full house. With our own rooms?"

Elliot nodded, "As best I can…I mean you and Kathleen may have to share for a bit…depending on what we get. And…"

"And depending on who else may come along later on?" Maureen asked with a smile looking at Olivia.

Olivia swallowed hard and felt Elliot wrap his hand with hers, "Yeah Mo. Depending on who else may come along…"

"So…that means Olivia would be moving to Queens too." Dickie said with a slow nod, "You guys are going to live together?"

Elliot pulled Olivia closer by her hand, "That's the plan. What do you think about that?"

Before the kids could even respond, Olivia spoke up, "We discussed it but if it's not something you are all comfortable with it's completely okay. I want to do whatever is right for all of you. I'm okay staying here in Manhattan and visiting when I can. If-"

"Here we go…" Kathleen said with a sigh as she put her pizza back down on her plate, "Throwing herself down on her sword again."

The kids smiled and Olivia blushed, "I'm just saying…"

"We know." Lizzie said, "We know Olivia…and yeah maybe it will take getting used to, but that's not a bad thing."

Olivia swallowed the lump in her throat, "You've had a lot of changes lately…and I know after your Dad got hurt you said you were okay with this. But this is bigger…"

"It is." Dickie said with a nod, "But it's not a bad thing." He shrugged, "We want Dad to be happy and you make Dad happy. So that's a win. Plus…" He sighed dramatically and reached for another slice of pizza, "You usually get Dad to calm down when I do something stupid. So that works out in my favor if you're around all the time."

Everyone laughed again and Maureen rolled her eyes, "What my brother means is that we love you Olivia. You've been part of our lives for years. And…we are okay with this. We support this."

Elliot looked over at Olivia and smiled, "That convincing enough for you? Or do you need them to break some laws like I did at the airport?"

Olivia and the kids laughed and she leaned closer to him, "It's convincing enough for me…"

"Good." He said, dropping a kiss to her forehead, "One criminal record is enough in this family. Even if the chargers were dropped."

"Oh please…statistically between the four of us someone's gonna get arrested at some point I'd think." Dickie said with a laugh, "My money's on me or Kathleen…"

Everyone laughed harder and Elliot hung his head, "God help me."

Kathleen smiled and reached for a couch pillow behind her and threw it at her Dad, "You're stuck with us Dad."

Elliot grabbed the pillow and gave her a look, "Oh you're gonna get it now."

The kids jumped up, reaching for their own pillows and running to different parts of the room. Elliot grabbed Olivia's hand and dragged her behind the couch, kneeling behind the couch Elliot looked at her, "This may be more dangerous than a shootout Liv. The kids are relentless in pillow fights. You up for the challenge?"

Olivia could hear the kids running around the room laughing, shoutin, hitting each other with pillows, "We gonna do this together?"

Reaching for her hand, he lifted it and pressed his lips to the back of it, "Partners for life, right?"

She squeezed his hand, reached for her own pillow and nodded, "Partners for life."

Elliot winked and then turned slowly, "On the count of three. One."

She crouched behind him, pillow in hand and smiled, "Two."

"Three." They said together and burst from behind the couch, tossing pillows at the kids and nothing but laughter filled the room.

Olivia laughed the loudest, and for the first time in her life, she felt like she was part of a real family.

The following day, Elliot drove the kids back to Queens and dropped them off at school. Olivia went to her apartment to do some laundry and then Elliot would meet her back at her place before they went to the Precinct. Olivia was sorting through some mail when she heard him knock on the door.

Letting him in, she smiled when she saw him standing there with coffee, (tea for her) and bagels, pressing a kiss to her lips he whispered, "Hi."

"Hi." She closed the door and followed him into the kitchen, "Kids get to school okay?"

"Yes. And they all said they had a great time with us." He said with a smile, "They said they can't wait to spend the night again."

Olivia smiled and moved back to her mail, "I had a great time too."

Watching her carefully he took a deep breath and dropped the bagels onto the counter, "You know I saw a couple of houses with for sale signs…close to the school."

Looking over at him she smiled and leaned against the counter behind her, "Well you don't waste any time do you?"

Taking a sip of his coffee he shrugged, "I told you…I don't want to waste anymore time. I'm not saying that we buy the first thing we see…but we can start looking sooner rather than later. Right?"

Reaching for her tea, she took a deep breath, "Looking is a good place to start."

He watches her, trying to read her reaction, "Liv?"

Smiling, she looked up at him and shook her head, "I'm good El. I promise. This is a good thing…" She looked around her apartment, "Been here for a long time…but it never really felt like home."

Placing his coffee down on the counter, he walked towards her, "I want you to feel at home. So we are going to pick the house together…"

Olivia put her tea down beside his coffee and smiled, wrapping her arms around his neck, "Together."

Leaning in, he pulled her flush against his body and smiled, "You ready to head to the precinct?"

She shrugged, "Ready as I'll ever be…"

Rolling his eyes he smiled, "Come on Liv, we both know I'm gonna get my ass chewed out. Cap, Fin and John will be more than happy to see you."

She nodded slowly, "I know that…I guess I'm just worried that there won't be a spot for me." He gave her a look and she frowned, "I know we talked about this…but you know once a spot is filled-"

Elliot shook his head, "Liv, I would leave before they said you couldn't come back. But that's not going to happen. I can feel it."

She frowned and reached for him, "I don't want you to leave."

Elliot squeezed her close, "So we take it one step at a time, right?"

"One step at a time." She whispered, pulling back she smiled, "Let's go."

Kissing her cheek he gathered their breakfast and moved back towards the door, "Let's go."

They walked out into the hallway and Olivia was locking up the door. "Well would you look at that…"

Olivia and Elliot looked over to see her Landlord Mr. Wilson standing by his door, "Mr. Wilson…hi."

He leaned against the door and smiled, "Welcome back Ms. Benson. Are you back for good this time?"

Biting down hard on her lip she shrugged, "Well…back in New York yes…"

"Ahhhh." He said as he walked towards them, "But I take it you may be looking for somewhere else to live soon? Somewhere bigger?"

She blushed and looked at Elliot, "You've been a great landlord…"

He smiled and nodded, "I'll be sad to see such a good tenant go. But…I couldn't be happier for you." He looked at Elliot, "Both of you. Take care of each other, okay?"

Olivia smiled and took Elliot's hand, "We will…"

When the older man walked back to his apartment, Olivai and Elliot walked to the elevator. They were standing there, listening to the beep of the floors passing by them. Elliot started to laugh and she looked over at him, "What?"

Elliot sighed, "I was just thinking about that first night…when I walked you up to your apartment. How nervous I felt standing here in this very elevator beside you…"

Resting her head against the wall behind her she smiled, "You didn't seem nervous. You seemed sure…like you knew what you wanted."

Elliot nodded as the door opened and they began to walk out into the lobby, "I did know what I wanted. I just wasn't sure if it was the same thing you wanted…part of me was afraid that I was about to ruin our relationship completely."

Stepping out onto the sidewalk, she took his hand and threaded her fingers with his, "I was scared too. But…I wanted the same things. I still do."

Walking over to his car, he brushed her hair back and sighed, "Good."

Looking over at his car, Olivia frowned, "What's with the massive fruit basket?"

Elliot chuckled, "Fulfilling a promise to Munch and Fin…at least part of it."

She looked over at him curiously, "What's the rest of it?"

Reaching for the door he opened it for her and gave her a wink, "Oh, they're officiating our wedding."

Olivia laughed loudly, "Oh really?"

Elliot nodded, "I feel it's only fair…John asked. And once they see the credit card bill with the first class plane ticket and suite we got…"

She continued to laugh and kissed his cheek, "We have good friends."

"That we do." He kissed her nose and cocked his head to the side, "Get in."

When they got to the precinct, Elliot carried the large fruit basket which hid him from view. Olivia laughed as she walked behind him into the squad room.

"The hell is that?" Fin asked from his desk.

"Special Delivery for one John Munch and Odafin Tutola." Elliot said with a funny voice.

"Son of a bitch." John said with a laugh, "They're back…"

Elliot dropped the heavy basket to his desk and smiled sheepishly, "We're back."

Olivia was standing behind him and nervously stepped up beside him. John and Fin jumped up, pulling her in for a hug, "There's our little runaway."

She blushed and looked at Elliot who just laughed, "Hi guys."

Pulling back Fin frowned, "You back for good now? Or do we need to take out a small loan to hire a boat to get Elliot to you next time?"

She laughed and shoved him back, "Shut up."

John smiled and then looked at Elliot, "Went for a suite huh? While I'm happy for you…my credit card bill despises you."

Olivia leaned into Elliot and he shrugged, "Couldn't help myself. I promise I'll repay you."

"Like I said, just consider it an advance on your wedding present." John said with a laugh.

From behind them, another voice spoke, "Speaking of which…"

Olivia turned to see Casey walking towards her and taking her hand, "What are you doing?"

Casey sighed, "Looking for the wedding ring."

Olivia took her hand back, "Casey!"

"What? You two crazy kids didn't elope while you were away?" She asked, "We all assumed…"

Olivia laughed and shook her head, "No. We didn't elope…when we get married you will all be there. And Elliot's kids."

"You two are officiating." Elliot said pointing at the men in front of him, "That was also part of the bargain."

"Already started our monologue." John said with a smile, "It's going to be epic."

"That scares me…" Olivia said with a frown, "Terrifies me actually…"

"It should." Casey said with a laugh, "But…I do like that you said when we get married. Means you've at least discussed it."

"Absolutely." Elliot said, wrapping his arm around her shoulder, "We know what we want. What the future looks like."

"Wonderful. Now…as a future bridesmaid of course…I would like to point out that I look ravishing in Navy Blue." Casey said, tossing her hair behind her shoulder.

Olivia smiled and nodded slowly, "I'll remember that."

Someone behind them cleared their throat and they all turned to see Cragen standing beside them, "Welcome back you two."

John, Casey and Fin stepped back, "As much as we'd like to hear what will undoubtedly be an epic ass chewing by Cap…I'm gonna assume he wants us gone." John said.

"You assume right." He said quickly, "Go pretend to work for once. You two in my office. Now."

Fin leaned closer to Olivia, "Remember he yells because he cares…"

Olivia and Elliot slowly walked to the office, following Cragen and waiting to hear what he had to say. They also knew that there was a possibility that their behavior could have enraged IAB so much…that they would no longer let them both stay on. Something they hadn't fully wanted to voice just yet.

As soon as the door closed, Cragen started in, "You know, in the last eight years, you two have put me through a lot of shit. I've had to defend your actions more times than any other Detectives. I've had to fight to keep you both. Fight to prove that you are worth the headaches and at times extra paperwork…"

Both Olivia and Elliot looked down, "We know Cap…and we appreciate all you have done for us."

"I've put my own career on the line to prove that you two are the best at what you do and that our Precinct needs you." He sat down on the edge of his desk and sighed, "And time and time again you throw me for a loop…

Olivia looked up, "Captain, if there are repercussions, please put them on me. Elliot doesn't deserve to get punished because I ran."

Cragen shook his head, "You two have always tried to save each other and while that's admirable. There isn't a whole lot you can do to help him when he was put on a no fly list Benson…"

Elliot grimaced, "So…does that mean I'm out?"

Cragen sighed and uncrossed his arms, "It means I spent the last three days once again ongoing to bat for your dumbass. And while you are getting a serious rip…for now…you're allowed to stay."

Olivia and Elliot both looked at him, "Both of us?"

Cragen looked over at Olivia, "I know that you were offered a job with the bureau. You sure you don't want it?"

Olivia shook her head, "No…I want to be here…" She paused for a moment, "If there is still a spot for me."

"Dani's position was always temporary." He said, "She was just filling your spot until you came back. She packed up her things a few days ago and was transferred to Jersey."

Olivia let out a little breath, "Are you sure that's what you want? You want me here?"

Cragen smirked, "I'd pick you over this asshole anyday."

Olivia laughed and took Elliott's hand, "I'm only as good as I am because I had a great partner who taught me everything I know…"

He rolled his eyes and smiled, "Spare me the mutual strokefest. I've been listening to you two fawn over each other for years. I said you can stay…now cut me a break."

Olivia smiled, "Thank you Cap."

He smirked, "We have a pretty slow day today…so you two get out of here. Come back tomorrow ready to work, okay?"

"We will." Elliot said with a smile, "Thank you Captain."

Taking Olivia's hand they walked together out of the office, waved at Fin, John and Casey and started to walk down the hall. They were walking towards the elevator when Elliot's mind wandered and another idea popped into his head. With a smile, he grabbed her hand and moved her in the opposite direction, "What are you doing?"

Elliot smirked at her, "Cap said it was a slow day…"

She frowned and followed behind him, "Yeah, so?"

With a twinkle in his eyes, he pulled her into one of the lesser used interrogation rooms, "So we're already on the shit list…might as well take a few more chances."

Olivia gasped as he pushed her towards the table and then locked the door from the inside and pulled down the curtain, "You serious?"

He smiled and walked back towards her, "Oh I'm dead serious."

His hands fell on her hips and quickly lifted her up onto the table, "We just got really lucky and you want to risk it all again…"

Pulling at the belt around his jeans he smiled, "For you? I'd risk it all babe."

She laughed as his lips fell to her neck and she sighed, leaning her head back, "If we are unemployed we aren't going to get that house you want."

"The house that we want." He said nibbling on her ear, "Right?"

Pushing him back just slightly, she smiled at him and whispered, "Right."

His hand slid up and down her side, "So…you in this with me or not?"

She stared up at him and her smile only grew, "I'm always with you Stabler. Always."

Wrapping his hands in her hair, he pulled her closer and sighed, "Thank God for that."

She reached forward and began to unzip his pants, "We're gonna have to be quick."

He smiled and pulled her shirt from the waistband of her jeans, "Fine by me. We have the rest of the day to take our time…"

"Or we could house hunt." She said as he lifted her slowly, shimmying her pants down her legs, "Your call."

"Or we could do both." He said with a twinkle in his eyes, "I like both."

She gripped the table behind her and stumbled slightly as his lips moved down her chest, "Definitely both…"

He dropped to his knees in front of her, tugged her material down her legs and removed her shoes, "Good."

Her head fell back as he pressed his lips against the thin material of her panties, "Oh my God…"

Elliot groaned and pushed aside the material, letting his tongue trace along her pussy, smiling when he felt her rock her hips against his face, "That's my girl…"

Her hand landed on the back of his head and she moaned softly, "This is insane…"

He pulled her closer to the edge of the table and nudged her clit with his nose, his tongue pushing up into her, "We've always been insane Liv. Just who we are."

She laughed as her legs started to shake, "I'm never going to be able to do an interrogation the same again…"

He felt her legs widen as he moved his hand, pressing a finger up into her, "Me either. But God it's worth it."

She felt the tension building and wanted more, but she also knew they had limited time. Her hand slipped on the table behind her but she reached for him, quickly pulling him up to stand in front of her, "Come here."

He frowned and watched as she made quick work of his jeans, "But-"

She shook her head, her hands moving quickly as she shoved down his jeans and boxers, "Fuck me. Elliot. Fuck me."

He lost himself then, resting his hands on either side of her hips, "This is what you thought of, right? When you touched yourself? You thought about me fucking you like this?"

She smiled and stroked him slowly, guiding him to her entrance, "Yes. So don't you for a second hold back. Okay?"

He thrust up hard and fast and they both groaned, "I won't."

Her legs wrapped around his waist, her ankles locking together, "Fuck El…"

Leaning forward, he tugged on her lower hip and slammed into her over and over again, "Trust me when I say if I get fired…this will be well worth it."

She laughed and dug her fingers into the back of his neck, "So fucking worth it." Her head fell back further, "Right…there. Oh my God El…right there please-"

He crushed his lips to hers and breathed her in, sucking on her bottom lip, "Didn't your fantasy involve me bending you over?"

Her eyes grew dark and she let out a shaky breath, "You were listening…"

Pulling back she gasped and he stroked his cock slowly, watching her intently, "Bend over."

With shaky legs, she scooted to the end of the table, and stood up in front of him, "I'm not going to be able to walk tomorrow, am I?"

He laughed and put his hands on her hips, turning her slowly, "Not if I do my job right."

She felt him turn her and press her lower back down and she braced her hands on the table in front of her, anticipating his next move, "Please…"

He grabbed a fistful of ass and rocked against her, "Please what Olivia?"

Turning her head to the side she pushed back up against him, "Please keep fucking me."

He smiled and leaned forward, pressing the tip of his cock against her pussy, "You're gonna have to find a way to not scream."

She smiled, moving her hand to cover her mouth, "El…"

Slamming forward, he filled her completely and his head fell back, "God Damn…"

She bit down hard on her fingers, knowing if she screamed they'd be caught, "Fuck. Fuck. Fuck."

His hands squeezed her hips, pounding into her over and over again, the table below them scraping against the floor, "Shit."

Her free hand moved to squeeze the side of the table, trying to hold it in place but it was no use, "Just-don't-stop."

He was breathing hard, and he bent his head to look down at her, mesmerized as he watched himself slamming in and out of her. The way her body moved, felt, reached to him was overwhelming and he knew he couldn't last long. Sliding his hand around the front of her, he pressed his fingers between her legs and she clasped her legs together, making her tighter, "Olivia…"

She whimpered as his finger circled her clit and she pleaded, "Please…I'm so close. Please El…please."

He felt the tightening in his own body, and knew he was right there with her. Bending over her, he bit down on her shoulder to cover his own deep moan and rubbed her harder, his fingers moving in time with his hips, "Jesus Christ…"

Covering her hand over her mouth she pressed her lips together and stifled the satisfied scream that was trying to escape her lips. And with one more swipe of his fingers, she came hard and fast, her legs trembling, her knees giving out and he had to hold her up as he thrust forward, pushing past her walls as they clamped down around him. "El…Elliot…oh my God."

He grunted a few times, pressed his forehead between her shoulder blades and emptied himself within her, "Fucking hell…"

She felt him shaking behind her and she had to laugh, reaching behind her fingers dug into the back of his neck, "Damn El…"

He sighed and turned his face, pressing his lips to her temple, "So…fantasy fulfilled?"

She sighed happily and felt him pull her up off the table before turning her to look at him, "Fantasy fulfilled and then some…"

Holding her face in his hands he kissed her softly, "I love you Olivia Benson."

She smiled up at him and squeezed his hips, "I love you too Stabler."

They were wrapped up in each other before they heard a knock on the window and they both jumped, "Hey idiots…you may have pulled the blinds but you forgot to turn off the sound system." Cragen barked, "Clean yourselves up and get the hell out of here before I change my mind and fire you both without recommendations."

"Oh my God." Olivia said, pressing her hand to her lips, "Oh. My. God."

Elliot grimaced and then leaned down to tug at his jeans, "Uh…sorry Cap."

"Uh huh." He said with a sigh, "Let's never speak of this again…"

"Yes sir." They both said as they heard him walk away.

They were quiet for a moment and then both burst out laughing. Elliot kissed her quickly and then they both began to adjust their clothes. As quietly as they could, they exited the interrogation room and saw Cragen standing by the doors of the squad room. He looked stern but then shook his head, "You two are gonna drive me to drink again…you know that? Either that or give me a stroke."

"Hope not." Olivai said with a smile as Elliot pressed the door to the elevator, "I need you around. Who else is gonna walk me down the aisle when I marry him?"

Cragen smiled and shook his head, "Get the hell out of here please…and don't you dare try and fool around in the elevator." He paused and then added, "And if you have before…don't tell me."

Eliot laughed and gave his boss a little salute, "Have a great day Cap. See you bright and early in the morning."

"Yeah. You better not be late." He said with a smile, "And picking up coffee for the team is a nice touch."

"Absolutely!" Olivia said as they climbed into the elevator, "Coffee on us for a whole week!"

"Donuts are a nice touch too." Cragen yelled as the doors closed behind them.

Olivia pressed her face against Elliot's shoulder, "He really does love us…"

Elliot laughed and kissed the top of her head, "Yeah…I guess he does."

When they reached the first floor, Olivia took his hand and tugged him towards the entrance, "So about that house…"

He beamed at her as she walked backwards, "What about it?"

"I've always really wanted a clawfoot bathtub. Is that something we can get?" She asked hopefully.

"Whatever makes you happy Liv. Whatever makes you happy." He said with a sigh.

She leaned up on her toes, kissed him softly and whispered, "You make me happy."

Brushing back her hair Elliot sighed, "And I'll do my best to make sure that doesn't change…"

She kissed him once more, climbed into the car and he took it all in. Looking back at the precinct, the place where he'd fallen in love with her so unexpectedly, the place where their journey had started, he couldn't help but think…the best was yet to come.