Last official chapter before the epilogue! Thanks for all the love! Don't forget to drop a review!
I own NOTHING.
Tuesday before the Wedding…
Elliot had just gotten home from work. It had been a crazy few days since he proposed on Saturday night. He was more than ready and excited to marry Olivia in less than a week, but it was a lot to plan in a short period of time. His kids and their team at work had been more than willing to help and were just as excited as they were. But as he walked in the door of their home, something was nagging at the back of his mind and he couldn't quite place it.
Walking into the kitchen, he opened the fridge to take out some leftovers from the night before. Olivia should be home soon. She had left work a little early to go shopping with Casey for her dress and his daughters and Casey were picking out dresses. They decided on Navy as their color since it was the color of Elliot's suit jacket and Olivia insisted that he wear it. The girls would all pick their own Navy dress, whatever style they were most comfortable in.
He was sitting at the island counter eating, looking over the list on the table. The guest list to be more specific. He thought he had added everyone he needed to add and Olivia had written it all out. But after he had gone to bed last night, she had clearly added someone else to the list at the very bottom with a question mark.
His Mom's name…
He realized in their partnership, he hadn't talked much about Bernie Stabler. He'd mentioned her once or twice in the time since they got together, but he had made it clear that his relationship with her was tumultuous at best and she never pressed him on the subject. He knew that she understood more than anyone what it could be like having a difficult relationship with a parent. Reaching for his glass, he took a quick sip and then picked up the pad of paper, mulling it over in his mind.
It wasn't long before the door opened and he heard Olivia coming in, "El?"
"Kitchen." He replied putting the notepad down and trying to put a smile on his face to not upset her.
A moment later, she walked up beside him and smiled, placing a few bags on the counter, "Hey."
When she walked by him, he turned his face and she kissed him softly, "Hey. How'd it go? Get a dress?"
Olivia walked to the sink and began to wash her hands, "Casey and the girls all got beautiful dresses. I had to talk Kathleen out of the one that would give you an absolute stroke but she settled for a much more respectable one if she got a little bit of a higher heel than Maureen."
Elliot chuckled and leaned back on the stool, "Sounds about right." He saw her drying her hands off and he smiled softly, "What about you? Did you get your dress?"
He saw her taking a deep breath before turning slowly back to him, and then he saw it. The glint in her eyes. And her face broke out into a huge smile, her excitement more than evident, "I did."
Pushing himself off of the counter, he walked towards her and reached out, pressing his hands into her hips, "Yeah?"
She beamed up at him, wrapping her arms around his neck, "I did. It's safely at Casey's house where you will not see it until Saturday."
Leaning down, he pressed his lips to her cheek, and then moved them down her neck, "I can't wait. You'll take my breath away as always."
She leaned back against the sink and tipped her head back as he lowered his kisses, nipping on her collarbone, "You're still okay with this?"
Pulling back slightly, he tilted her face up and nodded, "Of course I am. Why wouldn't I be?"
"I just want to make sure…" She said tugging on his tie, "I didn't throw this at you too quickly?"
"If I remember correctly…I'm the one who proposed." He said with a smile, "So I wanted this."
"I know." She smoothed her hands up and down his chest, "But…you probably weren't expecting it to happen in less than a week. And maybe…you were thinking more about the church and-"
"Olivia." Leaning in, he kissed her softly, "I want this. I'm ready. And this is perfect. I don't want a big ordeal. I want it to be small, intimate. Just the people we love most. The people who know us best. I'm excited, I'm ready and I couldn't love you more. On Saturday I'm going to be able to call you my wife…I promise you that I'm ready."
Taking a deep breath, she smiled and held his face firmly in her hands, kissing him, "I love you."
Pressing a kiss to her forehead, he pulled back, "I love you too." Reaching for his plate he said, "Did you eat?"
"Yeah. I got dinner with the girls before I dropped them off." She said reaching for a glass and began to fill it with water.
Elliot cleared his throat as he took a bite, "Kathy behave herself?"
She smiled and nodded slowly, "She did. We had a quick hello, she didn't ask about the wedding and I didn't give her any details. Probably best."
Elliot took a bite and nodded, "She's trying…"
"I know." She squeezed his arm, "I know she is and I appreciate that. We're good."
Elliot smiled back, "Thank you for being so understanding and patient…"
Leaning in, she kissed his cheek and whispered, "You're worth it."
"I'm glad you think so." He watched her as she settled onto the stool beside him, "So…how is everything else going? Ryan and Dickie got their suits. Fin and John are getting them tomorrow. Fin's friend Silas emailed the menu to me and I said we'd look at it tonight and respond."
"Sounds good." She said tracing the rim of her glass, "Dresses are set. Flowers were picked too. Cragen is walking me down the aisle…"
He smiled and leaned against the counter, "You asked him today?"
Olivia nodded, "I did. And I told him I wouldn't tell you that he cried…so pretend I didn't just say that."
Elliot laughed, "Well I cried when I asked him for his blessing so it's okay…"
She smiled and ran her fingers up and down his arm, "You asked for his blessing?"
Elliot nodded, "Of course. I know how much he means to you. Means a lot to me too…he is more of a Father to me than my own Dad ever was."
"I know." She whispered, and then pulled her hand back, "You know last night I found a pair of my Mom's sapphire earrings. I haven't seen them in years…but I think I'm going to wear them. So…it feels like she's there with me. At least part of her."
His heart started pounding in his chest and he nodded, "I think that's a great idea Liv. She'd be so proud of you."
Leaning her arms on the counter she frowned, "I hope so."
They sat there for a moment, both thinking about the elephant in the room and he knew that she wasn't going to say anything unless he did. Taking a deep breath, he knew he had to face the music sooner rather than later. Reaching for the guest list beside him he said, "Jack called. He'll be there with Katherine."
Olivia smiled and kept her eyes trained on the list, "Good. Then…I think everyone has said yes…"
"Except…" He said with a nervous smile and pointed at the bottom of the list, "My Mom."
Shifting nervously on her stool she frowned, "El…I didn't want to push the subject. You know it's completely your decision. But…I just want to say something."
Turning towards he waited patiently, "Okay…"
"I love you. And I will support you no matter what. But…if we're going to get married, if we're going to spend forever together…don't you think I should know everything about you?" She asked softly, "You know everything about me…the good, the bad and the ugly. The parts of me that I would rather forget…and you're still here. And it will be the same with you when you share with me." He didn't move and she sighed, "Whenever you're ready…now or down the line. I'll still be here."
She kissed his cheek and then started to walk out of the kitchen, "Liv?"
Turning back towards him she smiled, "Just for the record…despite my relationship with her…I'd give anything to have my Mom at the wedding. And I don't want you to go into this with any regrets."
Wednesday afternoon…
Olivia was sitting at her desk going through some paperwork on her desk. She was so consumed in what she was doing she didn't realize that Elliot had slipped away ten minutes before. "How's the planning going?" Fin asked from his seat across from her.
Looking up, Olivia smiled, "Things are going good. We seem to be in good shape. How's the ceremony writing going?"
"John and I are about three-quarters of the way through. It's getting there." He said with a smirk.
Olivia sighed, "You're going to roast us, aren't you?"
Fin laughed and leaned forward, "Not too bad. I promise. But you gotta let us throw a few jokes in there…we had to live this crazy love story for years. Plus…our credit card bills suffered a few months back."
Olivia laughed, "We said we'd pay you back!"
John walked over and sat down on the edge of her desk, "It's more fun torturing you with that information."
Oliva shook her head, "I'm starting to regret this decision…"
The door to Cragen's office opened and Elliot started walking towards them, "You guys wanna grab lunch?" John asked.
Olivia stretched her arms over her head, "Yeah, we have time to run down to the deli I think. You in babe?"
Elliot looked over at his fiance and smiled softly, "Um…actually we're heading out."
She frowned and leaned forward in her seat, "What do you mean?"
Rubbing the back of his neck, he looked behind him and she saw Cragen give him a little nod, "You and I are heading out early today."
"Special treatment. As usual." Fin said with an eye roll, "After they get married, can we even the playing field a bit?"
"It's not Elliot…it's Olivia." John said with a laugh, "You know Cap would do anything for her."
Elliot looked nervous, and it showed, so Olivia knew that whatever this was, it was important. Standing up, she reached for her bag and walked towards him, "Let's go."
He let out a little breath, thankful that she hadn't pushed the subject anymore. She knew him better than anyone. And that's why he knew it was time. Walking towards her, he took her hand, gave his friends a little smile and they knew enough to back off. In the elevator, Olivia looked over at him, squeezed his hand and when he squeezed back she knew exactly where they were going.
A block away from his Mother's house, Elliot pulled over, not quite ready to get there yet. He had been quiet during the majority of the drive and she just held his hand, letting him go through the motions. After a moment, he turned to look at her and said, "I love my Mom."
Squeezing his hand in hers she smiled, "I know you do."
"She's just…" He frowned and shook his head, "Difficult sometimes. She can be…eccentric. And sometimes it's just hard for me to be around her. It brings up things I'd like to forget."
Threading her fingers with his, she rubbed his knuckles soothingly, "You don't have to tell me everything…"
"I do." He said with a nod, "You're going to be my wife and you should know. You trusted me with everything about your family. About your Mom and her assault and I know how difficult that was for you to tell me."
"You're right. It was. You were the first person I ever told the whole story too. But I told you because I trusted you. I knew that you wouldn't judge me for it. That you wouldn't tell anyone if I didn't want them to know." She whispered.
Elliot swallowed hard and looked down at their joined hands, "In 1969…there was this insane blizzard. My Dad was stuck at the station. Everyone was stuck at home…or they should have been. Everyone but me and my Mom." He felt her squeeze his hand tighter and he sighed, leaning back against this seat he frowned, "She drove us into the city…she kept saying how beautiful it was. We were the only car on Broadway…I couldn't see a thing." His other hand lifted and pinched the bridge of his nose, "I remember sitting there in the car, gripping the seat…my heart was pounding. She just kept driving faster…said she was chasing snowflakes."
His voice cracked and she knew even after all these years, he was reliving it. Leaning closer to him she squeezed his hand tight, "I'm right here El…"
"I kept begging her to stop. To slow down…but she was laughing and only went faster." Taking a deep breath he whispered, "Next thing I knew we were spinning out of control and we crashed into a lamp post…totaled the car. I don't remember much after that…just waking up in the hospital with a cast on my arm." Looking over at her, he saw she had tears in her eyes and he whispered, "I never told anyone how I really broke it. Not even Kathy…"
Wiping away one of her tears, she reached out and wiped away his own, "I'm glad you felt comfortable enough with me…"
He looked down at their hands again, "She's…bipolar. Sometimes she went months…even a year or two without any episodes. And then sometimes she'd just crawl into bed and not come out for weeks. One time she was so mad at my Dad…they were arguing. We rented a cottage that summer. Things seemed…good. But one night they got into a fight…she said she was going to leave us. She was running around throwing things into bags. Said she needed to be free…I got scared. And my Dad picked me up…"
His hand was shaking again and she pulled it against her lap, "El…"
"She ran off and got his gun. And she threatened to kill herself. I didn't really understand what she was saying…but I remember being terrified. But then…I started to cry and she pointed it at us." He heard her gasp and he frowned, "I remember thinking why she hated us so much…why did she want us dead?" He looked right at her, "She had this look on her face…I'll never forget it. And she shot at us…"
Olivia's eyes went wide and she bit down on her lip, "Elliot…I'm so sorry."
He looked down again, "I love my Mom…" He repeated again, "But sometimes…it's just a lot. And sometimes for my own sanity…I avoid her. And that's wrong. I know it's wrong."
"You do it to protect yourself. I understand that." She whispered, "We don't have to do this if you aren't ready…I'll understand."
He shook his head, "No. I want her there…I want her to know you. I mean she already knows about you…"
Her face flushed slightly and she asked, "She does?"
"Course she does. I've been telling stories about you for years." He smiled a little, "She asked to meet you a few times actually…but I always gave her excuses. But it wasn't about you."
"Mom's…they can embarrass the hell out of you." She laughed, "Lord knows my Mom embarrassed me in front of you multiple times…"
"I guess I was trying to avoid that." He said with a sigh, "She's probably going to do that today."
"Does she know we are coming?" She asked softly.
He rubbed the back of his neck, "I called to tell her I'd be in the area and wanted to take her to lunch. She insisted on making lunch…but she doesn't know you're with me. That was a surprise."
"Okay." She whispered, "You're sure?"
Turning back to her he smiled, "You'll be with me the whole time, right?"
"Every step of the way." She said honestly, "You're stuck with me for life now El."
Leaning all the way towards her, he kissed her cheek, "Thank you for not being angry at me for not telling you before…"
Caressing his face gently she shook her head, "I know what it's like to want to forget El. Families are families…we can only do our best to make up for those faults with our own kid."
Looking down at her belly he smiled, "I can't wait…"
Squeezing his arm she whispered, "You ready?"
Turning towards the mirror he nodded, "Ready as I'll ever be…"
For the first time all day, he did feel that he could at least handle this. With Olivia by his side, he could handle anything.
Walking up the front path, Elliot refused to let go of Olivia's hand and she was more than happy to hold on tight. He took a moment outside the front door, then looked at her and smiled, "You'll still love me when she undoubtedly pulls out the embarrassing baby pictures?"
Laughing, she leaned in and kissed him, "Absolutely."
With a smile and a nod, he lifted his hand and knocked on the front door. After a moment, it opened, and Bernie came into view, "Elliot!" Her eyes went wide and then she turned to his right, "Well…well…well…"
Elliot smiled sheepishly, "Mom, I'd like you to meet someone. Someone very important." Moving his hand from hers, he touched her back, "Olivia Benson. Olivia…this is my Mom. Bernadette Stabler."
Olivia reached her hand out, "It's so nice to finally meet you Mrs. Stabler."
"Bernie. Please." She said, shaking her hand, a large smile on her face, "I haven't been a Mrs. anything in a long time…" She looked Olivia up and down and laughed, "Well…I can certainly see why you scared the pants off of Kathy."
Elliot hung his head, "Ma!"
Bernie rolled her eyes and looked at him, "Well she did! I'm glad your Dad didn't have a partner as beautiful as her. Not that it stopped him from -"
"Mom…" He said quickly, "Can we just uh…come in?"
She smiled and stepped aside, "Of course. Come on in."
Olivia gave Elliot a smile and stepped into the house. Elliot took a deep breath and stepped up behind her. "Hope it's okay I didn't mention-"
Bernie smiled, "I'm just glad you're here…she's not one of those vegetarians is she?"
Elliot laughed and shook his head as he watched Olivia looking out the window at the beach, "Uh no. She's not."
"Oh good." She said with a sigh, "Otherwise I'd be pissed. I made your favorite. Lasagna and it took all morning."
Leaning in, he pressed a kiss to her cheek, "Thanks Ma."
Following her into the living room, he stepped up behind Olivia, "This view is gorgeous."
Bernie smiled, "Isn't it? I've always loved the beach…after Joe died I decided to make it permanent. It's peaceful…and a great muse."
Olivia looked around the living room at the paintings lining the walls, "These are yours?"
"Yes." She said with a smile, "Most of them anyway…"
"Wow." She said walking around to admire them, "They're beautiful."
"You know…Elliot was quite the artist himself back in the day." Bernie said as she moved around the kitchen, "He wanted to be an architect…but he became a boring old cop instead."
Olivia looked at her fiance, "Well he's had a lot of dreams then hasn't he…"
"Yes. A pilot was on the list too." She said with a smile, "And for a brief moment in time…I think he also had Rockstar on that list but he can't hold a tune to save his life…gets that from his Father."
Olivia smiled and Elliot blushed, "Well…dreams are good. Very good."
"I agree." Bernie said reaching for some plates, "And you're never too old to go after them. At least that's what I believe."
"I couldn't agree more." Olivia said walking towards her, "Can I help you?"
"Oh no. No. Go sit." She said ushering her along, "Water okay? I have some wine but-"
"Water is great. Thank you. You're sure I can't help?" She asked again.
Elliot walked up behind her, "She'll push you into your chair. Trust me. She likes playing hostess."
"He's right about that." She nodded towards the table, "Go on. Go sit." Bernie watched as Elliot placed his hand on Olivia's lower back and she smiled to herself, "So…to what do I owe the pleasure of finally meeting Ms. Benson?"
Elliot settled in beside Olivia and wrapped his arm around her back, "By the look on your face…I'd say you already figured it out."
Bernie laughed and walked over to them, offering them each a plate before getting her own, "So Kathy did have reason to be scared…"
"Mama…" He said with a little laugh, "Kathy and I…are divorced."
"To be fair." She sat down and shrugged, "You two probably should have gotten married to begin with."
Elliot grimaced, "Let's-"
"But she was pregnant…and her parents insisted." Looking over at Olivia she shrugged, "I was more free spirited you see. I would have been okay with coparenting. They were so young…"
Elliot cleared his throat anxiously, "We were…but I got four incredible kids out of it. So for that…I will never regret it."
"Speaking of which…how are my grandbabies. I miss them." She frowned, "You need to visit more often…"
Elliot nodded, "You're right. I do. They miss you too." Looking at Olivia, she smiled and he turned back to his Mom, "But…if you're free on Saturday…you could see them."
Bernie sat back in her chair, "This have something to do with that rock on her finger?"
"Nothing gets past you…" He said with a laugh and lifted Olivia's left hand to the table, "Yes. We're getting married. And…I'd like you to be there."
Bernie reached for her glass of water, "You sure about that?"
Elliot swallowed hard and nodded, "Of course I'm sure."
"Well if you're getting married this Saturday…why am I just hearing about it?" She challenged, "She make you do this?"
Elliot squeezed Olivia's hand and shook his head, "Olivia didn't make me do anything other than realize I have wasted a lot of time…"
Turning towards Olivia she frowned, "I wasn't the best Mother…"
"That's-" Elliot reached out and quickly covered his Mother's hand with hers, "That's not true."
Olivia sat up a little straighter, "Mrs. Stabler…" Bernie gave her a look and she smiled, "Sorry. Bernie…" Placing her free hand over Elliot's arm she smiled, "Elliot only proposed a few days ago. I pushed for a quick engagement. That's why you didn't know."
"Are you pregnant?" She asked with a smile, "Shotgun wedding take two?"
Elliot hung his head again, "Ma!"
Olivia laughed and shook her head, "No…I'm not pregnant. I just…" She paused for a moment and Bernie studied her carefully, "I really, really love your son. And we spent a lot of years fighting this thing between us. And we almost lost each other even after we finally figured it out. So…I decided I didn't want to wait anymore."
Bernie smiled, "Well…when you know you know." Looking at her son she smiled, "And you know?"
Elliot looked back at Olivia and smiled, "I've known from the moment I met her. I don't want to wait anymore either…"
"Did I ever tell you how your Father proposed?" She asked with a smile,
Elliot looked at her and shook his head, "No. You didn't."
Reaching for her napkin, she placed it over her lap, "Your Father wasn't big on romance…but every once and awhile he surprised me." She smiled and shook her head, "That night he took me to this tiny little Italian place and he was a wreck. Quiet…I didn't know what was going on." She laughed softly, "To be honest…I thought he was going to break up with me…" She took a bite of her food and looked off dreamily, "And then we took a walk through the city…it started to rain and he was upset. But I started dancing. And then when I turned around…he was down on one knee. I had never been so shocked in all my life…"
Elliot smiled, "Dancing in the rain, huh?"
Bernie sighed and looked at him, "Sounds like me doesn't it?" She shrugged, "He said…Well Bernie…you make me absolutely crazy. We may kill each other. But…there's no one else who will put up with me. So…what do you say? You wanna marry me?"
Elliot laughed and shook his head, "Sounds like Dad…"
"And I said yes." She reached out and touched Elliot's arm, "And despite what I said at times…I did love him. And he gave me you."
Elliot swallowed hard, "Mama…will you come? I don't want to get married without you there…"
Reaching for his hand, she lifted it to her lips and kissed it, "I wouldn't miss it for the world."
Leaning back in his seat, Elliot let out a shaky breath and smiled, "Good. That's…good."
Beside him, Olivia put her hand on his leg and squeezed gently, letting him know without saying a word, just how proud she was of him.
An hour later, they were sitting in the living room and Elliot had his head back against the couch, living in his own personal hell. And yet…he hadn't been this happy in awhile.
"And then…then he ran butt naked through the parking lot screaming, 'I'm a real boy!' We had to watch Pinochhoio a thousand times that year." She said with a laugh.
Olivia looked back at Elliot, laughing hard, "You're lucky I love you. Otherwise I'd so tell Fin and John to put that in the wedding speech…"
He shook his head and looked at her, "Don't you dare…"
"Oh!" Bernie got up and walked towards the shelf, "Let me show you…"
Elliot cringed, "Mama…please for the love of God no…"
"Ignore him." Olivia said, swatting his arm away, "I want to see everything."
Elliot groaned beside them but Bernie opened the photo album and said, "Let's see…this is him on the first day of Kindergarten. Isn't he cute?"
Olivia's heart squeezed in her chest, "I can't believe how much Dickie looks like you…"
Elliot looked over her shoulder and couldn't help but wonder what their own child would look like, "Yeah…"
"There he was when he learned how to ride a bike…" She said flipping the page, "Joe and him were out there for nine hours straight. He refused to give up…"
"Sounds like Elliot." She said reaching behind her to squeeze his leg.
"Oh! And this…this was the Thanksgiving Day Pageant." She said excitedly.
Olivia gasped and ran her finger along the picture, "He was a carrot!"
Bernie smiled, "I made it myself out of orange felt and green feathers."
"Alright…I'm outta here." He said with a laugh, "I'm gonna let you two go over the most embarrassing moments of my childhood. And I'm going to call and make some last minute plans for the wedding."
Olivia laughed, "Spoil sport…"
He leaned down and kissed her forehead, "Just remember you love me…"
She smiled up at him and then turned back to the photo album, flipping through the pictures, "God…these are adorable. The youngest pictures I've ever seen of Elliot were from when he graduated from the Academy."
Bernie smiled sadly, "That's because he tried to erase his whole childhood…" Olivia froze and waited, "See I…I made certain choices and I lost my son because of them."
Placing her hand over the closed photo album she whispered, "Thank you for showing me these…"
"I'm not sure what he's told you. But I want you to know that I really tried to be a good Mother." She said leaning back in her seat.
"Elliot is a good man. The best man that I've ever known. And I've known him long enough to know he didn't get that from his Father." She whispered.
Bernie frowned and shook her head, "Thank you for saying that…but you don't need flatter me dear. Even before I knew you…I knew you were special. You have my blessing."
"Well…I'm glad to hear that." She whispered, "But I'm not just saying that…"
Bernie studied her carefully and then asked, "Will your parents be at the wedding?"
Reaching for the water on the coffee table, Olivia took a sip to try and calm her nerves, "Uh…no. My Mom…she passed away about seven years ago. And my…" Her cheeks flushed and she shook her head, "I've never met him…"
Bernie smiled sadly, "Families…they are complicated. Aren't they?"
"Very." Olivia whispered, "Bernie…I hope you know that I would do absolutely anything for your son. He has…changed my life. He's my best friend…"
Bernie smiled, "You know…Kathy was nice…she gave me four beautiful grandchildren. But I never saw it…"
Olivia frowned softly, "Never saw what?"
Standing up, Bernie smiled, "Never saw the spark in my son's eyes like I see when he's with you. Hell…I saw it when he was just talking about you for all those years." She lifted her glass and smiled, "You bring out the dreamer he used to be…the boy I always saw. And for that I am grateful…"
Bernie walked towards the kitchen away from her just as Elliot walked back in. He saw his Mother walking away and saw what looked like tears in Olivia's eyes. Sitting down beside her he asked, "Everything okay?"
Looking over at him, she took his hand and squeezed tight, "Yeah El. Everything is great."
Thursday night…
Elliot leaned back and sighed, "I think…for the first time in my life I am done with paperwork."
"There is a stack bigger than Texas on my desk but I'm gonna do it for you because I'm a good partner." John said with a smile.
Elliot glared at him, "John, that's all the paperwork you have missed the last three months because you hate paperwork."
"Oh. Right." He said with a sigh, "Well…in case I don't finish it, have a good wedding on Saturday."
Olivia laughed, "You have to be there. You're officiating."
"Are we going to get a copy of what you're saying before Saturday?" Elliot asked nervously.
Fin shook his head, "Hell no."
Elliot sighed and pushed himself up off of his chair, "Okay…but please remember that my kids are going to be there. So…try not to scar them, alright?"
"Don't worry. I already made them take out the joke about you two doing it in the interrogation room." Casey said, walking up to them.
"Wait…do you all know about that?" Olivia said with a gasp, "I thought only Cragen-"
"Oh no…John heard you guys first and told everyone." Fin said with a laugh, "We were just gonna bring it up at the wedding. But you're right…we don't want to scar the kids. They are innocent in this."
Elliot looked at his fiance, "Too late to elope?"
"Yes. Sorry hon." She said as she stood up, "We have put money into it at this point."
"Fine." He said with an eye roll, "But let's go. I'm ready to be done with work for the next few days."
"You guys still not going on a honeymoon?" Fin asked, "Seems pretty lame."
"We are going on a honeymoon. We're just waiting a bit to plan something more. But we're going away for two nights and we'll be back on Tuesday." Olivia said.
Casey rolled her eyes, "Camping is not a romantic honeymoon Olivia…"
Olivia looked over at Elliot who was just smiling at her, "Don't knock it until you try it."
Grabbing his keys, he gave her a wink and then quickly took her hand, "See you all Saturday."
"Saturday? What's Saturday?" Fin asked, "I've got no plans."
"Me either." John said with a heavy sigh, "Nothing exciting going on at all."
"Goodnight boys." Olivia said giving them a little wave, "Finish that paperwork Munch. You're not allowed to be late."
They heard them laughing as they climbed into the elevator together. Once again, they stood there, holding hands, both quiet, thinking about so many things. When they got to the lobby floor, they smiled at each other and walked through the front doors of the precinct. Out on the busy New York street, they looked around, taking it all in.
Elliot cleared his throat and looked up at the building behind him, "You know next time we pass through these doors…you'll technically be Detective Stabler."
Olivia smiled and nodded, "Benson-Stabler."
Smirking, he leaned in and kissed her, "Benson-Stabler. Same thing."
"I do look forward to driving everyone crazy by answering to Stabler though." She wrapped her arms around his waist, "I don't know why they put up with us."
"Me either." He said with a laugh, "Well more so me. I know why they put up with you."
"Oh yeah?" She asked leaning further into him, "What's that?"
"Because you're the heart of this team Liv…" He answered honestly, brushing back her bangs from her face, "You make us better. And everyone loves you."
Her cheeks blushed and she squeezed him tighter, "If I'm the heart…what does that make you guys?"
"Well…Cragen is the brains." Elliot said with a nod, "Cuz he's the boss."
"Right." She said, tugging him towards the car, "And what about you three idiots?"
"I'd argue that I'm the lungs…" He said with a smirk, "Because I yell the loudest."
She started to laugh harder, "Can't argue with that!"
"I'd say Fin is the pancreas…and John?" He shrugged, "John's the kidney. Or one of them at least."
She shook her head as he reached for the car door, "Hm…"
Resting his hand on the top of the car he frowned, "Not having second thoughts are you?"
Shaking her head she smiled, "No of course not. But all this organ talk had me thinking." He gave her a strange look. "I was just thinking we've been partners all these years…getting married on Saturday and I don't even know your blood type. Never thought to ask."
Elliot smiled and shrugged, "A positive."
Olivia's smile grew and she leaned in, "How 'bout that? Me too." Kissing him softly she whispered, "Guess we really are a perfect match."
When she pulled away he whispered, "I'd give you a kidney."
Smirking, she kissed him again, "Not if I gave you mine first…"
He chuckled as he watched her climb into the car, she was always keeping him on his toes. And he knew she always would. Looking back up at the building he thought of all the years they'd spent here together. The hours and hours of late nights spent finding justice and more than that…falling in love. Smiling to himself, he realized for the first time in a long time he couldn't wait to come back to work. Because this time…he'd be coming in with his wife.
Friday morning…
They had turned their alarms off but out of instinct, they both woke up early. Elliot woke up first, he lay on his side watching her sleep. The sun was streaming in through the window, the light casting a golden glow on her olive skin. His breath caught in his throat for a moment as he looked at her, realizing he had never felt this happy in his life. Never been more sure of his path. All roads lead directly to her and he couldn't wait to start this new life with her.
When her eyes fluttered open and she smiled lazily at him, his heart leapt in his throat, "Good morning Miss Benson…"
Reaching for him, he pulled her against his chest and she snuggled against his bare skin, breathing him in, "Good morning Mr. Stabler…"
Running his hands up and down her spin, he pressed a kiss to the top of her head, "How are you this morning?"
Smiling against his shoulder she sighed, "Great. My fiance spent last night reminding me how much he loved me using all my favorite little tricks…I'm a very satisfied woman."
He laughed and tickled her side, "Just making sure you don't have any reason to run."
Tilting her head up she smiled and shook her head, "El…I told you. I'm not running. Not ever again. I couldn't if I tried…"
Running his thumb along the side of her face his blue eyes lit up as he watched her, "One more sleep…"
"One more sleep…" She whispered back, "You ready?"
"I've been ready, Benson." He answered, "I cannot wait to be your husband."
Glancing behind him she smiled, "Well…you're gonna have to wait a little while longer."
He saw her start to scramble off the bed, "Where are you going?"
Reaching for his shirt on the floor, she slipped it on over her body and turned back to him, "I have to meet Casey. Last minute details. Getting our nails done…all that stuff."
Elliot sighed and rested his hand on his stomach, "No time for…honeymoon practice?"
She laughed and leaned over to kiss him, "We practiced plenty last night." Tracing her fingers along his chest she smiled, "But you are officially cut off until wedding night."
Elliot pouted and tugged on her hand, "What? No!"
Rolling her eyes she pulled away and stood up straighter, "You know I'm staying with Casey tonight."
"Stupid tradition." He said with an eye roll, "I don't like sleeping without you."
"I know." She said looking around for her clothes, "But…it will make it that much more special tomorrow night." He was still pouting and she couldn't help but laugh, "I promise to make it worth your while babe."
"You're still sure about the whole sleeping in a tent on our wedding night thing?" He asked.
She nodded as she stood by the bathroom door, "Yep. Just you me and the stars…"
Elliot smiled, "You were pretty distracted last night…you didn't even protest when I told you you couldn't use our bathroom."
She frowned and then stood up straighter, "I forgot all about that! What was the reason?"
Climbing out of the bed, Elliot reached for a pair of sweatpants and walked over to her, "Early Wedding present…"
She looked up at him and frowned, "What are you-" Slowly, he turned her and she gasped, "Oh my God!"
Kissing her cheek he smiled, "I promised you a clawfoot bathtub…didn't I?"
Reaching behind her, she took his hand and sighed, "It's perfect."
Kissing her shoulder he smiled, "Go take a long soak before Casey comes to get you…you deserve it."
Turning in his arms she pulled him in for a long kiss, "Why are you so good to me?"
"Because." He whispered softly, kissing her nose he said, "I love you."
Her hands slid down his chest and she smiled, "You're not gonna join me?"
He winked and smiled, "I'll take a raincheck. I'm cut off until wedding night."
Holding his face in her hands she whispered, "I'm going to make you happy Elliot Stabler. I promise."
Shaking his head he kissed her again, "You already do Liv. You already do."
As he walked away, she turned back to the tub still in awe. As she got everything she needed and started the tub, she climbed in and sighed and rested her head against the back of the tub, "God I love that man…"
And as she admired her diamond ring she thought…and I get to keep him forever.
Saturday…
Everything was set. Elliot was standing in the backyard with Ryan and Dickie at his sides. The yard was full of a small group of people. Their closest friends from work, Bernie, Jack, Katherine and friends of Olivia's from childhood. Fin and John stood before him and he was watching Casey and his daughters walk down the aisle one by one. As the music changed, he momentarily forgot how to breathe and Ryan leaned in whispering in his ear, "Breathe Stabler…Olivia will kill you if you pass out."
He laughed and took a shaky breath before his eyes landed on her. Cragen was at her side, his arm looped with hers and she was looking right at him. Her white dress was simple yet stunning and he had never felt so damn lucky in all his life. When she was finally standing in front of him, their eyes locked and they both knew this was exactly where they were supposed to be.
Reaching a hand out, Elliot smiled, "Cap."
Cragen smiled, shook his hand and then reached for Olivia's, placing it over Elliot's, "Take care of each other."
"We will." Olivia whispered, her voice laced with emotion, "Thank you Cap."
Leaning in he kissed her cheek and then took his seat beside Melinda up front. Casey helped adjust Olivia's dress and took her flowers as the couple held hands and faced John and Fin.
"Well good evening everyone." John said, putting his hands out, "Fin and I would like to welcome you to the wedding of the Century. We would also like to take this opportunity to tell Alex Cabot that she won the grand prize in our when will they get their heads out of their asses and get married poll. Alex, you can collect your earnings after the ceremony."
Everyone laughed and Elliot tugged on his suit jacket, "I'm gonna kill them…"
Olivia laughed and squeezed his hand, "Remember they played a part in getting us here…"
"John and I are very honored to be officiating the ceremony together. We'd like to spend the time ripping them to shreds, teasing them about all the years spent glancing at each other over their desks longingly, thet long drawn out arguments and the never ending flirting." Fin said as everyone continued to laugh, "But we promised to keep it short and tasteful in front of Stabler's kids."
"However…if you'd like to hear specific stories we will be sitting at table three during the reception." John cut in, "We've compiled a timeline of their best and worst moments in the last eight years. We have pictures and everything."
Elliot turned to look at their guests, "I'll be burning that once we exchange vows so no need to seek them out…"
Fin laughed, "All jokes aside, we really do feel lucky to get to stand up here and watch these two finally make it official. As much as I pride myself on being a tough guy…these two do know how to pull at your heart strings."
"That's true. I witnessed Fin crying at the airport once we got Elliot off to go get his girl. It was beautiful. Truly." John said, placing his hand over his heart.
"I still maintain I was crying because I knew it was going to go over my monthly limit of credit…" Fin said quickly.
Everyone continued to laugh and Elliot huffed, "I thought we agreed to keep this short and sweet?"
Fin smiled, "Sorry Stabler…we had to tease a bit." He adjusted his coat, "But…let's get to the good stuff." Turning to John he smiled, "Munch?"
John smiled and looked between them, "Fin and I have had the pleasure of watching Olivia and Elliot's relationship evolve over the last eight or so years. I worked with Elliot before either of these two and no one could quite handle Elliot the way Olivia does. I knew the moment she showed up that they were a good match…they challenge each other. In a good way. Bring out the best in each other. They both are better when they are together…"
"A partnership between two cops is a lot like a marriage. You fight, then you make up. And let me tell you…these two fought. A lot!" Fin said with a laugh. "But…at the end of the day they've always had each other's backs. They have protected one another, supported one another even when others turned their backs on them. They've put each other first, time and time again and proved that there will never be another pair quite like Stabler and Benson. And while our squad is sad to see them not be partnered anymore…I suppose it's led to an even better partnership. The one they are about to start today."
John smiled at them both, "Olivia, Elliot, are you ready?"
Glancing at Olivia, Elliot smiled, "Yes."
"Absolutely." Olivia whispered back.
"Turn to each other." John said, "And Elliot…you'll repeat after me first." He waited a moment as they got into place and then began to speak. "Elliot, do you take Olivia to be your wedded wife, to live together in marriage? Do you pledge to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and health, and forsaking all others, be faithful only to her, for as long as you both shall live?"
Elliot didn't hesitate as he looked directly at her and answered, "I do."
Fin looked at Olivia and smiled, "And do you, Olivia, take Elliot to be your wedded husband, to live together in marriage? Do you pledge to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him for better or worse for richer or poorer, in sickness and health, and forsaking all others, to be faithful only to him, for as long as you both shall live?"
Her eyes welled up with tears but she spoke honestly, clearly and with confidence, "I do."
Turning to Dickie, John smield, "May we have the rings?"
Dickie reached into his pocket and smiled at Olivia and his Father as he handed the rings to them. Carefully, they each exchanged their rings and then turned back to their friends, "Well…by the power invested in…us."
"And Big Brother." John added quickly.
The two of them looked at each other as their friends laughed and spoke together, "We now pronounce you husband and wife!"
Turning back to Olivia, Elliot asked his friends, "Can I kiss her?"
"No…I think you should wait another eight years." John said with a sigh, and everyone laughed even harder.
Elliot chuckled, leaned in and pulled Olivia close, crashing his lips against hers as she clung to him. It was finally official…
The backyard was quickly transformed from the ceremony into the reception and the twinkle lights lining the yard sparkled as the night grew darker. After taking pictures, Casey called them out to the makeshift dance floor in the middle of the yard. Olivia held onto her husband tightly as the made their way to their place. But just as she went to wrap her arms around him she gasped, "Oh my God!"
Smiling down at her he asked, "What?"
"We forgot to pick a wedding song." She said pressing her fingers to her lips, "El I-"
"I took care of it." He whispered as a few notes of the song began to play.
It was a slow piano version, and it took her a moment to place it but then she knew, "Elliot…"
He pulled her close and spoke against her temple, "I told you…it's our song."
Though I've tried before to tell her
Of the feelings I have for her in my heart
Every time that I come near her
I just lose my nerve as I've done from the start
Every little thing she does is magic
Everything she do just turns me on
Even though my life before was tragic
Now I know my love for her goes on
As they danced, all the other people around them seemed to disappear for just this moment and all that remained was the two of them and the stars just as it had been that night in Oregon. He spun her around, filled with love and admiration and he didn't even care that they were all watching. Let them watch he thought, he'd never been happier…and neither had she.
After the party, they packed up the car and drove the long distance to their camp further up state. It was late by the time they got to their destination and they were both tired yet had no desire to sleep. Elliot was finishing up with the tent, both of them were still dressed up and Olivia sat by fire, his jacket draped around her shoulders.
Turning back to her he sighed, "Well, I think we're all set."
"Good." Slowly standing up, she felt her heart jump in her chest as she looked at him, "Take me to bed husband…"
He smiled and reached for her hand, slipping his coat off her shoulders, "Gladly wife."
She bit her lip as she watched him reach for the zipper of the tent, "Haven't you learned anything by now Stabler?"
Turning back to her he frowned, "Huh?"
Pointing at the jacket in his hands, "Always check the pockets…"
Smiling, he stood up straighter and moved the coat in his hand, "You leave me a wedding gift?"
She shrugged and whispered, "Why don't you find out for yourself."
Slowly, he moved his hand towards the pocket and then put his hand inside, "What did you do?" When he pulled the item out, he momentarily forgot how to breathe, "Olivia…"
Walking towards him she whispered, "Casey was actually taking me to the Doctor yesterday…I wanted to be sure before I said anything."
His hands shook as he looked down at the black and white picture in his hand, "You're pregnant?"
Placing a hand over her belly she nodded, "Eight weeks. Still early…but they said everything looks good. We're both healthy." He was staring at it still, either in shock or he was upset she couldn't tell and started to get nervous, "I hope you're not upset about Casey knowing…she sort of figured it out. I got sick the other day and she insisted I take a test. I just wanted to get the news from the Doctor before I said anything to you but-"
Her words were cut off as he pulled her against him, crushing his lips to hers, "This is without a doubt…" He laughed and kissed her again and then each of her cheeks before kneeling down before her, "The best day of my life."
Tears welled in her eyes and she placed her hands on his shoulders, "Mine too…"
With a happy sigh, he leaned forward and pressed his lips to the thin white material of her dress, "Hey baby. I'm your Daddy. I cannot wait to meet you." He sighed and held her even closer, "I love you so much and you don't even know it."
"She knows." Olivia whispered and he looked up at her in shock. "They ran a bunch of tests because I'm older…and it just sort of slipped out." Swallowing hard, "So…you okay with another Benson woman in your life?"
Elliot laughed and stood up, holding her face firmly in his hands, "Yes. God yes." Quickly, he lifted her up and she laughed as he spun her around, "We're having a daughter."
As he placed her back down on the ground she beamed up at him, "Looks like I got my dream after all…"
Resting his forehead against hers he smiled, "And I got mine."
Taking his hand in hers she smiled, "You know…I packed your Jersey."
He couldn't help but laugh as she pulled him towards the tent, "Oh yeah?"
Shrugging, she smiled, "Might as well wear it while I can." She teased, "If I remember correctly…you're into that."
He shook his head as he climbed into the tent beside her, "See? Luckiest son of the bitch on the planet…"
Laying her back on the mattress she sighed, "I love you Elliot Stabler." Tracing the lines of his face she sighed, "Thanks for getting sushi with me that night..."
He laughed and kissed her again, "I love you too Olivia Benson Stabler…thanks for showing up right when I needed you most. The sushi was well worth it to bring me here with you…"