Hello! Here's the next chapter for you guys, I hope you like this one!
Chapter Forty Two
"So, Gabby how are you feeling?" Dr. Tanner asked as she sat down on the stool, smiling at the woman sitting on the exam table across from her. "It's hard to believe you're already sixteen weeks pregnant, it doesn't seem that long ago since you first came into my office."
"Yeah, it's been a little crazy, it's certainly going by quickly. And I'm doing alright, feeling pretty good overall." Gabby responded.
"That's good. Any concerns or anything, everything still going well?"
"It's not really a concern, so much, but I dunno, I am a little surprised my stomach hasn't gotten much bigger over the last couple of weeks. It feels a little thicker, I guess, but hasn't really rounded out much from what I can tell." She answered, Dr. Tanner nodding. "I mean, it's noticeable when I'm in tighter clothes, and I know I should just enjoy it while I can, but I'm kind of excited to start looking pregnant." She replied, holding over the bandage on her arm where Amanda had just drawn her blood.
"Yeah, you definitely aren't really showing yet, which is completely fine. That's nothing to worry about. I know you're aware of this, but every woman is different, there's nothing wrong with you still looking more bloated as opposed to pregnant, especially considering this is essentially your first pregnancy. Your body has never done this before, so we don't know how it'll react to everything happening. I know that you, and Matt, are able to notice the changes and can see your little bump, but trust me, soon enough your stomach will pop out and they'll be no clothing in the world that can hide it." She spoke calmly, seeing a small grin fall onto Gabby's face. "Everything looked great last time we were here, and when I do your ultrasound in a few minutes, we'll look and see how baby's doing today, I'll get measurements and everything. As long as they're still growing how they should, there's nothing to worry about." She assured them, her eyes moving towards where Gabby was still fiddling with the bandage covering her arm. "And I'm sorry about that by the way. I know we've taken a lot of blood from you recently." She spoke, Gabby following her eyes to look at her arm.
"Oh, it's okay. Amanda didn't really say what it was for, but I know you all need the blood work." Gabby replied, glancing towards Matt who shot her a supportive smile.
"We do, yes. But everything today was just routine, it's blood work we do around this time with all our patients." She responded. "I know neither of you have ever experienced a pregnancy before, and this definitely isn't a usual one, so you two don't know exactly which tests are routine and which ones aren't." Her words gained nods from both of the expectant parents. "But the testing today is normal, nothing to cause any alarm." She assured them, knowing the both of them always read into the smallest change of plan. They had good reason, Dr. Tanner couldn't blame them for their anxiousness, but she knew she had to take special care to remind them that a lot of testing was normal during any pregnancy. She was dealing with first-time parents under a very stressful set of circumstances, she knew she had to be mindful of that.
"Alright." Gabby responded with a small smile.
"So, how's work been going? I believe the last time you were here, you'd just started back at the firehouse?"
"Yeah, I had. It's only been about two and a half weeks, but it's going well. I'm glad to be back there. But I've been taking it easy, I had to sit out a call once or twice."
"I know that probably wasn't easy for you, but I'm glad you know your own limitations." Dr. Tanner replied.
"Yeah, I didn't really want to, but both of them were middle of the night calls and I wasn't feeling up for it. That round ligament pain you've been telling me about? I've definitely been feeling it lately." She spoke with a grimace, Dr. Tanner flashing her a sympathetic smile.
"I know it's not fun, but it's all part of the process. So work hasn't been too much for you?"
"No, not at all. I know it probably won't last, but I've had a lot of energy lately. I know not to overdo it, but I'm trying to do what I can while I have the ability."
"That's perfectly fine. It's good to stay active and moving during your pregnancy, I'm just glad it's not too much for you. And that you've been able to step back when needed."
"Yeah, it's all going well so far."
"All her partners have been really helpful, too." Matt interjected. "I've seen it at 51, and heard her talk about how it's been at her other job, but all of them have been great with helping her, making sure she's not doing something she shouldn't. And Gabby's been doing great, she's still the same badass paramedic she's always been, even though she's not able to do as much." Matt boasted, Gabby glancing towards her lap in embarrassment.
"I'm really not doing much, but it's nice to still be able to help a little." Gabby responded, Matt shaking his head, Dr. Tanner watching them with a smile.
"I'm glad it's going well for you, Gabby." She spoke, putting her tablet down and sliding towards the table. "So, are you ready to see your baby?"
"Definitely." She replied, leaning back on the exam table, adjusting her clothing while Dr. Tanner got the machine ready.
As always, the ultrasound went by too quickly for Gabby's liking, her hand grasped tightly in Matt's as they saw their child. It was something that was a new experience every time, Gabby unable to stop the tears welling in her eyes as Dr. Tanner showed them their baby. It never lasted long enough, as Gabby was soon wiping the gel off her stomach while Dr. Tanner looked over the scans.
"Everything's looking excellent, Gabby." The doctor spoke as Gabby buttoned back up her pants, knowing she'd need to fix her shirt before they got back to work. "Your baby is right on target. I know your stomach hasn't filled out as much as you'd expected, or wanted, but you're still gaining weight like you should, and your baby looks perfect."
"That's great." Gabby breathed out, Matt placing his hand on her back to help her sit up.
"Now, we'll finish up your appointment in my office, but I do want to go ahead and let you know that next time you're here is when we should be able to find out what you're having."
Her lips parted in surprise, Gabby quickly glancing towards Matt, seeing the look of amazement and shock settled over his face.
"Really?"
"Yes, really." She responded with a grin. "Sometimes you're able to tell earlier, around sixteen weeks like you are right now, but your little one wasn't cooperating. And I don't want to tell you anything before I'm sure. But in two weeks, as long as your baby complies, I should be able to tell you the gender of your baby, if you all would like to know."
"Yes, definitely." Gabby responded within a second, unable to stop the wide smile covering her face. But the feeling of Matt's hand moving over her back caused realization to wash over her, Gabby glancing up at him. "Well actually, now that I think about it, we haven't really talked about it." She spoke sheepishly, Matt releasing a soft chuckle, a look of amusement covering Dr. Tanner's face. "But if Matt's okay with it, I'd like to know."
Shaking his head with a smile covering his face, he leaned forward, placing a soft kiss against the side of her head. "We want to know." He answered, looking towards Dr. Tanner.
"Alright, well hopefully next time we'll see what you two are having." She responded with a smile, grabbing her tablet from the counter. "Once you're ready, just go ahead to my office. I'll meet you two in there in a few minutes."
Gabby nodded as she left the room, her attention turning towards Matt, placing her hand on his arm. "Two weeks from now, we're gonna know if we're having a boy or girl." She spoke with an excited grin, Matt matching her smile.
"It's amazing." He whispered, placing a gentle kiss to her lips. "You're amazing, and I can't wait to know what we're having." Matt placed his hand over her stomach as he gave her another kiss, Gabby resting her hand over his.
"I love you." She spoke against his lips, Matt moving back a few inches to find her gaze.
"I love you, too. And our baby." He replied, kissing her again, this one holding more passion than the first two. "I love you both so much."
Gabby and Matt walked hand in hand up the driveway of 51, returning from her doctor's appointment just as 81 had gotten back from a call. The couple moved in step as they entered the garage, seeing Herrmann hop down from Matt's seat, the man smiling once he saw them.
"There's the expectant parents." He called throughout the large room, Matt and Gabby walking towards him.
"I see the rig is still in one piece." Casey joked, earning a wide grin from the older firefighter.
"Yeah, we managed to keep her together." He responded, glancing towards Dawson. "So, how'd the appointment go? The kid still doing well?"
"Everything's great, Herrmann." Gabby responded with a bright smile. "Dr. Tanner says the baby is doing good, and I'm doing good. We're all good."
"That's great." He spoke, blowing out a sigh in relief. "Now, you can resume your duties Captain." Herrmann said, moving his jacket back towards its usual resting place.
"I'm gonna go let Boden know we're back, you good? Need anything?" Matt questioned as he turned to Gabby, the woman shaking her head as she dropped his hand.
"No, I'm fine."
Matt nodded, rubbing his hand over her arm before heading for the entrance to the firehouse, Gabby walking towards Herrmann, the man changing out from his turnout gear.
"So, I've been thinking about something…" She prefaced, the firefighter raising his eyebrow as he stood up straight.
"Oh boy, that's never good." He responded lightly, crossing his arms over his chest. "Alright, what is it?"
"I've been thinking about maybe trying to work a shift at Molly's." She told him, a clear look of hesitation instantly covering his face.
"I'm not sure, Dawson…"
"Oh come on, it's not like it's anything that strenuous. I'm still an owner there, and I definitely have not been pulling my weight recently. I want to work a shift, just try and get back into it a little bit."
"I don't want you overworking yourself, kid. You're already working two jobs, and you've gotta be careful."
"I know I do, but I think it would be nice to get back there. I'm feeling good, and I have been for a couple weeks. I'm not saying it'll be a permanent thing, not until well after I've had this baby, but I'd like to at least try a shift."
Herrmann eyed her curiously for a moment, seeing a small pout form across her lips, Gabby obviously trying to persuade him into saying yes. Both of them knew she didn't need his permission, that she could come in and work if she pleased and he couldn't stop her, but he still appreciated her asking.
"Alright, fine." He gave in, watching as a proud smile fell to her face. "But if Casey gets mad, I'm telling him you gave me no choice."
"Oh please, don't tell me you're scared of Matt." She chuckled, Herrmann shrugging as he blew out a breath between his teeth.
"The Captain has his moments."
"I can handle him, Herrmann." She responded lightheartedly.
"Yeah, well, I know Casey doesn't have the same soft spot for me like he does for you. You have much better luck getting him to agree to something." He replied, Gabby laughing as they headed for the entrance. "How about you come work a shift tomorrow night. Otis and I are both working already, so you'll have backup. That way if you need a break, or need to leave, you can."
"Deal." She agreed, the pair stopping in the middle of the garage as they heard the bells ring out.
Once hearing only 61's services were needed, Herrmann patted her shoulder before continuing towards the doors, Gabby turning to head back towards the ambulance, Brett and Foster soon running out to meet her.
"Hey, we didn't know you were back. The appointment go alright?" Brett asked softly as they climbed into the rig, Gabby giving her a nod.
"It did, everything's going well."
"I'm glad." Brett responded with a grin, the blonde pulling out of the garage, heading towards their call.
During the ride, Gabby began feeling the seemingly ever-present ache in her abdomen, wincing slightly as she pressed down against her hip. The round ligament pain she'd been warned about had definitely made its presence known recently. Usually moving around seemed to do the trick in helping to dull the ache, but considering she was unable to do that right now, massaging her muscles would have to do.
She dug her fingers into her muscle, trying to soothe the jabbing pain present there, but she wasn't having much luck.
"You okay?"
"Yeah, yeah I'm good." Gabby replied, flashing Brett a small smile. "Just a little achy, but once I get up and move around a bit I'll be good."
"Are you sure? Foster and I can handle this if you need to hang back."
"I'm good, I promise. It helps me to be up and moving."
"Alright." Brett responded, coming to a stop in front of the accident they'd been called to. "But if you need to take a break, just let us know."
"I will." Gabby responded, hopping down from the rig, feeling her muscles release, the jabbing pain dulling to a slight ache. It was something she had grown accustomed to dealing with lately, knowing her body was making room for the baby growing inside of her. But that knowledge didn't make it any less uncomfortable, Gabby thankful that the pain stopped completely as she went around to the back of the rig to help Brett and Foster, the three paramedics getting to work.
Matt exited his office after an hour of pushing through some paperwork, walking down the hallway to get to the common room, intent on getting a snack as he tapped his fingers against the side of his leg while he moved.
"Hey Casey," Foster grabbed his attention as she came in through the first set of double doors, Matt slowing his path.
"Hey." He greeted, turning around to face her.
"Have you spoken to Dawson?"
Matt's eyebrows furrowed, his eyes looking out into the garage behind her. "No, I haven't. I didn't know you guys were back, is she alright?"
"Yeah, she is. She was just having some pain earlier. She was still able to work and she said it stopped once she started moving around, but I wasn't sure if she told you. It started happening again while we were at med, too."
"I haven't seen her, how long have you guys been back?"
"About half an hour, she came inside as soon as we got here, I thought she was with you. But I wanted you to know, I know you asked me to be looking out for her. Dawson's a big girl and can handle herself, but I dunno, I just wanted to make sure you knew." Emily spoke, shrugging slightly.
"No, I appreciate you telling me. That's been happening a lot recently, but I'll go find her, make sure it's nothing. Thanks Foster." Matt spoke, clasping his hand over her shoulder before going in search of her. According to Foster, Gabby wasn't in the garage, and after a quick glance, he found that she wasn't in the common room either. She hadn't been in the bunk room when he left his office, so there were few places left to search.
Moving towards the bathroom, Matt pushed open the door, finding her quickly as he saw her standing at the sink, brushing her teeth. Frowning softly, Casey stepped inside, catching her gaze through the mirror as he came up behind her, placing his hand on her back.
He stayed silent as she finished, Gabby rinsing her mouth out before turning off the water. "You get sick?"
"Yeah." She responded, flashing him a small smile before moving towards the lockers, Matt following her.
"You could've come and gotten me. Or had Brett or Foster get me." He spoke softly, standing to her side as she opened her locker, placing her toothbrush and toothpaste back inside.
"It's alright, I was in here already and it kind of just hit me. But I'm fine." She assured him, securing her locker door back in place.
"It was just morning sickness, right? Nothing out of the ordinary?" He questioned, Gabby's eyebrows furrowing as she took a step closer to him.
"Yeah. I know my morning sickness has gotten a lot better, but you know there's still days I have it." She responded, earning a nod from him. "Why?"
"Foster said you were having some pains, and then you got sick, I just want to make sure you're alright."
"Keeping tabs on me, huh?" She asked with a raised brow, Matt wearing a bashful look on his face.
"Maybe I am. That can't be surprising to you, though." He responded lightly, wrapping his arms around her waist, pulling her body closer to rest against him.
"Oh, it's not. You choosing Foster, that's a little surprising I guess, but the rest of it, not so much." She spoke, her nose scrunching as the words left her mouth.
"Well, I asked both of them to look out for you when I told them you'd be coming back here, but then I spoke to Foster individually." He explained, Gabby waiting for him to elaborate. "At the time, she knew about what happened to you in Puerto Rico, but Brett didn't. So I just asked her to keep a closer eye on you."
"Ahh." She replied, her palms resting against his chest.
"I know I'm being overprotective, and you've never really loved that, but it makes me feel better." He admitted with a shrug, Gabby rubbing her thumb over his chest. "I know I get to be with you more now that you're back, but I'm not able to be out on call with you sometimes. So it's nice to have the extra assurance that someone's checking in with you."
Gabby nodded, leaning forward to place a chaste kiss to his lips, Matt smiling into the kiss as he tightened his grip on her. After a few seconds, she pulled back, a sly grin covering her face. "I don't know, I've always found it sexy when you get all protective." She whispered teasingly, Matt smirking as he tapped his fingers against her lower back.
"Yeah, I know." He replied with a chuckle, placing another kiss against her lips before releasing his grip on her, knowing they weren't exactly in private. "So, the pain?" He asked, resting his shoulder against the lockers as he crossed his arms over his chest.
"The usual." She responded, Matt nodding understandingly. "It wasn't terrible or anything, pretty much the same as what I've been experiencing recently. It was a little worse because I wasn't able to get up and start moving around, but I'm good."
"Good. When Foster mentioned it, that's what I figured it was, but I just wanted to make sure you were alright."
"I am." She assured him, mimicking his stance against the lockers. "I'm feeling great, I have been feeling great. I have my energy back, everything's going well right now."
"Oh, I'm very much aware that you've gotten your energy back." He spoke teasingly, a proud smirk resting on his lips. "Yesterday morning especially, I'd say you were feeling very energetic."
Her body flushed in embarrassment as she bit down on her bottom lip, Gabby playfully punching his chest as he chuckled. Her mind went back to that moment, of how she'd surprised him by joining him in the shower, the two enjoying each other long after the water went cold. Then how once they'd finished, it didn't take much convincing for Gabby to pull him back into bed, Matt unable to deny her even though they were pressed for time. In the end, his first shower proved useless, Matt having to quickly take another one before he could head out to his construction job.
While he did have a point, and her high energy levels had definitely benefited him just as much as they had her, the firehouse wasn't the place to talk about it.
"Anyway," Gabby said, clearing her throat, Matt having not yet lost the proud look on his face. "Speaking of my energy, I talked to Herrmann about maybe covering a shift a Molly's."
The smile on his face fell, his look of amusement quickly morphing into one of hesitation as he drew in a deep breath. "Are you sure you feel up for it?"
"I do. I wouldn't try it if I didn't think I could." She responded, Matt clicking his tongue against the roof of his mouth. "I already talked to Herrmann, he said I could work the shift tomorrow night, with him and Otis. He already said I could take a break whenever, and leave early if needed."
She watched him for a few moments, Gabby able to tell he was still clearly unconvinced, his eyes running over her face cautiously.
"I feel good, Matt. I want to try. Being back here the last two weeks, it's been nice. It has felt good, and comfortable even. I mean, things aren't perfect by any means, there's a lot that's happened with everyone here that can't just magically be fixed, but it's getting better. It feels good to be back on 61, and things with Brett and Foster are going better than I thought they would. Though I'm not sure Sylvie and I can ever get back to where we were, we're learning how to be friends again. Things are slowly improving with everyone. You were right, being here has helped me. It's made me feel like me again." She admitted, his gaze softening as he reached out to place his hand over her arm. "Me going back to work a shift at Molly's, it's just another thing I can do to get back into my old life. If I can't do it, if I need to stop I will and I'll take a break. I just want to try."
Matt nodded, rubbing his thumb over her arm gently. "If you feel like you can, I'm all for it. But I'm gonna be there with you, just to keep an eye on you."
"I figured you'd be coming anyway." She responded lightly, Matt nodding.
"Go ahead and tell Herrmann you'll be there." He spoke, a sheepish grin covering her face, Matt raising his eyebrows in amusement. "You already said you were doing it, didn't you?"
"Maybe." She responded softly, Matt chuckling as he shook his head.
"Alright, well then you can let Herrmann know that we'll be there." He adjusted his words, Gabby nodding as she leaned forward, giving him another quick kiss.
Their moment was interrupted by the bells ringing through the house, breaking them apart as 81 and 61 got called to a house fire.
Matt watched as Gabby swiftly moved around behind the bar, a wide smile on her face as she interacted with customers, the loose sweater she was wearing protecting her from the chilly April night, as well as keeping her small bump hidden from view. They'd been here around an hour, Gabby showing no signs of fatigue as she worked with Otis and Herrmann, them all laughing and enjoying their night while Matt sat at the bar. Various members of 51 were strewn across the room, Kelly posted up beside Casey as the man sipped his beer, Matt settling for a club soda.
While keeping up a conversation with Kelly, Matt kept most of his attention on Gabby, glancing towards her every few minutes to make sure she was still doing alright. He knew he was being overprotective, but he couldn't help himself. He didn't love the idea of her working so much, even with it being a pretty slow evening at Mollys. But he wouldn't voice his concerns to her right now, not unless he felt it got to the point where he needed to. Even though so far throughout this pregnancy, she'd done a good job of knowing her limitations, he also knew who he was dealing with. This was Gabby; she got frustrated easily when told she couldn't do something, and he couldn't help but worry that the farther along they got, and the more she had to hold herself back, the harder it would be for her.
"So… dad." Kelly spoke, pulling Casey's attention from Gabby, the Captain's eyebrows raising at his friend's choice of greeting. "How are you doing?"
"I'm good, Kelly."
"Really?" He pressed, Matt staring at him blankly. "Look, I know everyone's focused on Gabby in all this, as they should be. But I know you're struggling, too. I just wanted to check in." He elaborated, Matt's eyes narrowing slightly. "...And Gabby asked me to keep an eye on you." Kelly admitted, Matt nodding knowingly.
"Yeah, I figured. I'm pretty sure she asked Herrmann, too. He's been checking in a lot the last few weeks."
"Well, she's worried. After how this pregnancy started for you guys…" Kelly trailed off, Matt grimacing.
"I was an ass." Matt responded, taking a sip of his drink. "I'm honestly surprised she forgave me as quickly as she did, seeing as how I sent her to the hospital."
"I don't think that's what she was talking about, Casey." Severide responded, shaking his head. "She meant to make sure you were doing okay."
"No, I know. I just… I still feel guilty about that, I probably always will. I made everything so difficult, I missed out on so much of the beginning of this pregnancy. And not only that, Gabby couldn't even enjoy it because of me. I just wish I could go back and do it all over." Matt muttered.
"Well, you can't. But Gabby loves you, and knows how hard this all is. She just wants to know you're doing okay."
"I'm… I'm handling it. As much as I think I'm gonna be able to. I try not to think too much about what could happen, I'm just focusing on experiencing everything and it's… it's fucking crazy, Sev." Matt breathed out, breaking out into a grin. "Every time we see that kid, I get so excited thinking about meeting them. Of having the child I've always wanted with Gabby." Severide's smile widened as he listened to his friend, seeing the absolute joy covering his face. "I'm terrified, for a lot of reasons, but I'm so excited for this baby.
"I'm so happy for you guys, man." Kelly responded, clasping his hand over Matt's shoulder. "Let's just hope the kid looks like Gabby." He joked, Matt rolling his eyes at the comment as Severide took a drink.
"Well, we do get to find out what we're having at our next appointment." Matt spoke, Kelly's eyes widening slightly.
"Really?"
"Yeah. It's insane. I don't even know what to think, it's crazy to imagine us having a little boy or a little girl. I'm so excited, but like… nervous. I don't wanna screw this kid up."
"Nah, you won't." Severide assured. "You've got Dawson, you two were meant to have kids. You were like the best parents I've ever seen when you had Louie. This kid is lucky to have both of you."
The sound of Gabby's laugh grabbed his attention, Matt turning to find her down at the other end of the bar, standing beside Herrmann, the two laughing along with Foster and Kidd. The sight of her so carefree brought a smile to his face, his eyes staying locked on her. It made him happy to see her enjoying herself with her old friends. Every day he was seeing less and less hesitation from her when she was around everyone from 51, and he was thankful for that. He knew it had been a harder transition for her than she'd care to admit, that it took her a few shifts to really feel okay being back, despite what she said. Because he knew everything that happened between her and the firehouse had hurt her, it hurt her much more than she would ever voice out loud. That the way they handled her leaving and then her coming back, it left a lot of unresolved pain and apprehension between them. But things seemed to be moving in the right direction, Gabby was able to feel comfortable around them again, and that's all he wanted for her.
"Yeah, thank God I have her." He spoke softly, Kelly shaking his shoulder before bringing his arm back down to his side.
Even from across the bar, it was like Gabby could feel his eyes on her, Matt seeing her look towards him, a soft grin forming across her face. He saw her say something to the group before she walked towards him, stopping to grab another beer on the way.
"Hi." She greeted, placing the drink down in front of Kelly.
"This is why you're my favorite, Dawson." Kelly remarked, leaning his beer towards her before taking a sip. A light laugh left her lips before she turned back to Matt, finding his eyes still on her.
"You need anything?" She asked, Matt shaking his head, tapping his finger against his half-full glass.
"I'm fine, thank you though." He replied. "You still feeling okay?"
Gabby shrugged, Matt's spine straightening at her action. "I'm okay, hurting a little bit but nothing I can't handle."
Casey's eyes raked over her form, or what he could see from her position behind the bar, before nodding. "Alright, well if you need to leave, just let me know."
"I will." She leaned forward, Matt understanding her intentions as he leaned forward as well, moving closer to her to capture her lips in his in a quick kiss, his body hovered over the bar. "I'm gonna get back to work."
Gabby tapped his cheek before walking away, moving back down towards Herrmann, but she only got about halfway when a voice stopped her.
"Hello pretty lady. I haven't seen you before."
Biting her tongue, Gabby turned to look towards the voice, seeing a man leaning against the bar, a wide smirk on his face.
"What can I get you?" She asked, plastering a fake smile on her face.
"I'd take you." He spoke smugly, Gabby's eyes narrowing, glancing towards Matt, seeing him already watching the two of them, his hard stare focused on the man.
"Do you want something to drink or not?" She questioned roughly, the man letting out a chuckle.
"I'm just trying to make conversation with you, honey."
"I'm okay, thanks. Now if you want a drink, I can get you one. If not, I'm gonna get back to my other customers." She replied sharply, feeling a presence at her side, turning to see Herrmann beside her.
Seeing the older man's harsh stares, the nameless man just smiled, glancing back to Gabby.
"I'll take a beer, sweetheart. Whatever you have on tap."
"Great." She responded, Herrmann taking a few steps back to let her do her job, but staying close enough to keep an eye on the guy.
"You got a boyfriend, gorgeous?" He questioned, Gabby remaining silent as she placed his drink down, pulling her hand away quickly when he brushed his fingers over hers on the glass.
"You've got your drink, I hope you enjoy." She stated, her eyes narrow. Her response earned another laugh from him before he took a sip.
"I don't see a ring, I was just wondering."
"Hey babe." Gabby looked over to see Matt come up to stand beside the guy, flashing her a warm smile. She could tell based on his demeanor that Matt was annoyed, but his face didn't show it. "Can I get another drink when you have the chance?"
Nodding slowly, she felt her body relax as she moved to get him another club soda.
"Guess that answers that question." The guy breathed out, pushing himself away from the bar, Matt watching him with a harsh glare until he was far enough away for comfort.
"Herrmann, who is that guy? I haven't seen him before." Casey asked, turning back towards the two. Matt hadn't been to Molly's much lately, only a few times since Gabby's been back, so he wasn't sure if this guy was a regular or not.
Gabby placed the new drink in front of Matt as he spoke. She knew he didn't actually need it, that he'd only come over to get that guy to leave her alone, but she still decided to make him one regardless.
"He's been coming around for a few weeks, usually ends the night with me or Otis shoving him into a cab. Gets drunk off his ass more often than not, but as far as I know he's harmless. I think his name is Mark, maybe. I'm not sure."
Matt nodded, looking back to Gabby who gave him a small smile.
"So, you heard my conversation with Mark, I guess." She spoke with a laugh, Matt nodding.
"Yeah, thought I should come make sure he wasn't stealing you away from me." Matt joked, taking a quick sip of his drink. "I hope you don't mind my stepping in." He spoke, his voice turning serious. "I know you can handle yourself, but he didn't seem to get the memo you weren't interested."
"Well, we'll never know. I mean, if he kept using those lines on me, I might've been head over heels by the end of the night." She teased, Herrmann laughing beside her as he shook his head, walking away now that he had confirmation she was alright. "No, but really, it's fine. I mean I agree with Herrmann, he seemed pretty harmless, but I appreciate the help... And, like I said, you're hot when you're protective." She replied, her voice dropping towards the end of her sentence, Matt's tongue running over his bottom lip with an amused gleam in his eye.
"I'm gonna have to remind you of that next time you get mad at me." He responded, Gabby rolling her eyes playfully as he picked up his drink, stepping away from the bar. "I'm gonna get back to Kelly, just come get me when you're ready to head out."
Gabby gave him a nod, watching him walk back down to the end of the bar before moving back towards Herrmann, continuing on with her work.
As the night wore on, Matt could see more and more clearly how exhausted Gabby was getting. And he could tell the pains from her growing uterus were getting more and more difficult for her to work through, seeing her on multiple occasions stopping to press against her hip, trying to ease the discomfort. But still, he didn't jump in, knowing if he tried to get her to leave before she was ready, she wouldn't be happy with him. But if it got too much later without her giving him to signal she was ready to go, he knew he might have to force her home. He was glad she was having a good time and enjoying herself, but he knew they had to be mindful of her limitations.
His eyes followed her as she walked towards the far end of the bar, seeing her disappear into the back room. He waited it out for a few minutes, figuring she was just grabbing some glasses. But the more time that passed without her returning, his concern for her started to rise just a bit, Matt unable to stop himself from going to check on her.
Walking through the bar, he quickly got to his destination, pushing open the swinging door to find Gabby standing back against the wall, her eyes closed as she took deep breaths.
"Hey." He spoke carefully, not wanting to startle her as he walked further into the room, letting the door fall closed behind him. Gabby's eyes opened slowly, a soft smile coming to her face. "Everything okay?"
"I'm alright, just got a pain that wouldn't go away." She explained, Matt coming to stand in front of her, placing his hand over hers that was pressed in between her hip and her growing stomach, Matt applying more pressure against her muscle. Gabby hissed at his movement, wincing slightly as Matt glanced up at her.
"Too much?"
"No, no it's helping. It just hurts." She responded, taking her hand away to let Matt get better access. Nodding understanding, he continued his methods, sensing her body starting to relax the longer he massaged the area. This had become a common practice for them since her round ligament pain started, Matt having the ability to soothe the ache a lot more efficiently than she could. She wasn't sure if it was his larger hands, or him being able to get a better angle than she could, but he was always able to relieve the pain.
"Feeling better?" He questioned, earning a nod from her. "Do you wanna get out of here?" Matt asked, pulling his hand back. "It wasn't a full shift, but you worked for almost three hours. We could go home, get you in the bath to help with the soreness."
"Yeah, I'm ready to go." She admitted, Matt nodding before giving her a quick kiss.
"Alright, you get your stuff, I'll go let Herrmann know we're heading out." He responded, flashing her a grin before he left the room.
Gabby stayed rooted in her spot for a few more seconds, thankful that the jabbing pain had subsided. Once she regained herself, Gabby grabbed her things, slinging her purse over her shoulder before leaving through the door, her eyes finding Matt across the bar, speaking to Herrmann.
"I was waiting for you to come back." A voice slurred from beside her, Gabby grimacing as she turned to fine the man from earlier come up to her side, standing too close for comfort. Set on ignoring him, Gabby stepped around his slouched form, wordlessly walking past him. "Oh now don't play hard to get sweetheart." He spoke, grabbing her arm to stop her.
Gabby looked down to his hand gripped tightly over her arm, her eyes narrowing.
"Let go of me. Now." She bit out angrily, her voice showing no signs of fear as she spoke.
"I saw your boyfriend leave, we could have a good time honey." He replied, ignoring her statement.
"I'm only gonna tell you one more time. Let go of me."
"Do we have a problem here?"
Gabby turned to see Matt coming towards her swiftly, his face hardened in anger at the scene in front of him.
"No sir." The drunken man responded.
"I believe she asked you to let her go. So let her go." Gabby had heard that amount of anger in his voice before, but not often, and never towards her. Not even when he was at his angriest with her, did she ever hear it. It was a tone he used only when necessary. A tone that might've scared her if it ever was directed at her.
Matt stood strongly by Gabby's side, feeling her eyes on him, but his gaze was locked on the man who had yet to drop his hand from her arm. He didn't want to cause a scene, but he would if this guy didn't let go of her. And he would have no problem doing so.
Even through his drunken state, the man, Mark, knew this was a battle he couldn't win, as he released his grip from her arm, muttering something under his breath before walking away. Once free, Gabby stepped away from him, subconsciously moving into Matt's side, Casey not pulling his attention away from the man until he was long gone.
"You alright?" He asked softly, turning his body towards her, his eyes flickering over her face. From his first glance, she seemed to be fine, but he needed to be sure.
"Yeah, I'm okay." She responded, feeling the eyes of some of the patrons of them. "I'd just forgotten about having to deal with drunk jerks, I guess."
Matt nodded understandingly, lifting his gaze to find Herrmann standing a few feet from them.
"Herrmann, can you deal with that asshole. I'm gonna get her home."
The older man nodded, flashing Gabby a warm, apologetic smile. "Sure thing, Captain. I'm sorry about that guy, Dawson. I'll handle it."
"It's fine Herrmann, I'm good. Thanks for letting me work for the night."
"Of course kid. You're welcome to anytime, you know that."
Gabby nodded, feeling Matt's arm wrap around her shoulders protectively before moving them to the door, stepping out into the chilly night air.
"You sure you're alright?" He questioned softly as they walked down the sidewalk, Gabby glancing up to him.
"I'm good, I promise. He was just some jerk, nothing I haven't dealt with before."
"Alright. But you know you can talk to me if you need to."
"I know." She responded, leaning herself into his side as they walked, Matt's grip tightening around her. He believed her when she said she was fine, but he also knew that the last time Gabby would've been grabbed roughly like that was when she was attacked. He wasn't sure if the unexpected incident tonight brought back up those memories or not, but at the moment she seemed to be alright. He would just have to keep a close eye on her to make sure she stayed that way.
Matt laid quietly in bed as Gabby rested against his chest, the two enjoying their peaceful night together now that they were home from Mollys. When they arrived at the apartment nearly an hour ago, Matt began running Gabby's bath while she got something to eat before she came to get in. Normally, he would've joined her, but he knew her body was sore and he wanted her to be as comfortable as possible, so while she relaxed he took a quick shower, cleansing himself of the long day they'd had.
Now they were both curled up in bed, Gabby having chosen one of his t-shirts and a pair of his boxers to sleep in, Matt settling for the latter as they got comfortable. It was getting pretty late, and Matt figured Gabby would be asleep soon if she wasn't already. She hadn't made a noise in a few minutes, and she'd stopped tracing random patterns over his bare chest a few moments prior, her breathing evened out. Matt had taken to massaging her hip while she rested on her side, his hand slid underneath his boxers adorning her body, giving him better access to rub over her tight muscles.
"I can't believe we're gonna know what we're having soon." Gabby muttered against his chest, a gentle grin falling to his face.
"I know, it's crazy to think about." He responded quietly, Gabby turning her head, resting her chin on his chest. "I didn't think you were still awake." He murmured, bringing his free hand up to tap lightly against the side of her head.
"I can't stop thinking about our baby." She explained, releasing a content sigh. "I guess I hadn't really thought about it yet, thought about what we might be having. With everything else that's been going on, it kind of slipped my mind that we'd be able to find out soon. But ever since Dr. Tanner told us, I haven't been able to stop thinking about it."
"I know what you mean… I haven't really thought about it much, either. It's been hard to look ahead when we're having to take it week by week, but I'm so excited to find out." He spoke, tracing his thumb over her cheek.
Gabby relaxed into his touch momentarily, her head lulling to the side as she fought off exhaustion, her eyes slowly opening to find him watching her.
"What do you hope we have?" She questioned quietly, Matt relaxing his body into the bed, moving his gaze up towards the ceiling as he mulled over her question.
"Truthfully, I'm not sure." He answered, peeking down at her. "What about you?"
"I've always pictured us having a son." She responded, a wide grin spreading across Matt's face at the thought. "A little boy who takes after his father." She continued, rubbing her hand over his chest. "I mean, knowing Dawson genes the kid will probably look more like me, but personality wise, he'd be all you." She spoke with a smile, Matt's body filling with warmth at her words.
"That would be amazing." He breathed out, Gabby adjusting her position to get a better look at him. "There's been a lot of times I've imagined us with a baby girl." He spoke quietly. "A girl who is exactly like you… My two beautiful girls." Tears filled her eyes as he spoke, Gabby placing a delicate kiss to his chest. "Honestly? I don't know which I would rather have more, I don't even know if I have a preference. I just know they're going to be perfect." He whispered, Gabby nodding slowly, leaning forward to place a soft kiss to his lips.
"I'm so excited for this, for all of it…" Gabby spoke. "For the rest of this pregnancy, and then having our child, I sometimes can't even believe this is all happening." She admitted, Matt cupping her head with his hand. "Everything that's happened to us this last year has been… crazy is a good word for it. Sometimes it's hard to believe we got here, but I'm so glad we did."
"Me too." He murmured, Gabby adjusting her position, hooking her leg over his. "Obviously, there are some things I wish were different, and that I could go back and handle some things better. But there's not a day that goes by where I'm not thankful to have you here with me." Matt's voice trailed off towards the end of his sentence, his mind drifting off as he thought over his own words.
He was grateful to have her back, of course he was. They'd been given a second chance at their life together, and he was determined to not take that for granted. But there was that black cloud that had been looming over him for months now, and that was the fact that there might be a time very soon where she wouldn't be here with him.
He's done what he could to ignore it, to try and not let it consume him, but ever since they told the firehouse of risks, it was like it had been forced back to the forefront of his mind, Matt unable to push it away for long before it popped up again. Hearing it all laid out in front of him like that just drudged up the same feelings he'd had when they first were told of all the risks, and it left a heavy feeling in his gut. He was trying to not let worry overtake him again, he couldn't live like that for the rest of this pregnancy. But he was finding it harder and harder to not think about it.
"You okay?" Gabby's soft voice broke him from his trance, Matt's eyes snapping back into focus to see her watching him carefully. "Matt?"
Clearing his throat, he flashed her a small smile. "Yeah, sorry. I'm alright."
Gabby was less than convinced as she brought her hand up to stroke the side of his face, a clear look of concern covering her features. "Where'd you go just now?" She questioned, her voice barely above a whisper.
Matt's chest rose as he drew in a deep breath, focusing on the feeling of Gabby's fingers moving over his skin. "How, uh… how would you feel about us going back to see the Chaplain?"
Confusion covered her face at his words, Gabby not expecting him to answer her question with a question, and she definitely hadn't been expecting that.
"Is this about what happened earlier tonight at Mollys? Because Matt, I promise I'm okay. I'd tell you if I wasn't, it was just some drunk, stupid guy."
"No, no it's not about that." He assured her, closing his eyes momentarily. "I just, I've actually been thinking about it for a few weeks…"
Her eyebrows furrowed as he went quiet, Gabby trying to figure out what was going through his mind.
"Matt, what's going on?" She asked softly. "Are you okay?"
"I am, but I think it might be good for us, to go and talk to him…" He responded, Gabby knowing there was more to it, waiting patiently for him to feel comfortable saying whatever it was. "Ever since we told the house about the pregnancy, I haven't been able to stop thinking about something happening to you… And I know it's never gonna go away, that it's just something we have to live with, but us telling everyone, it brought it all up again and I can't stop thinking about it."
"If you want to go, of course I'll go with you. You know that. We could've gone a while ago, I had no idea you were feeling like this." She murmured, her lips forming into a frown, Matt shrugging slightly.
"I know you tried to get us to go a few months ago, and I said no. I kind of blew you off, and I'm sorry for that. But I think it would be good for me to talk to him, it'd be good for us… I guess I was hoping this feeling would pass by now but it hasn't."
"You weren't ready to talk about it when I asked you, that's understandable. But I definitely think we should go." Matt nodded, turning his head to the side to place a soft kiss against her palm, leaning into her touch for a moment.
"I'm not even sure if talking to him would help anything, but I don't know, I know he always makes things clearer for you. I figured it couldn't hurt."
"I'll call him tomorrow and set up an appointment." She responded.
"Thank you." He replied softly, Gabby leaning forward to place a gentle kiss against his lips.
"Of course. Thank you for telling me."
After another soft kiss, Gabby positioned herself on the bed, Matt reaching over to turn off the lamp as she got comfortable against him. He threw the comforter over them, Gabby nuzzling herself into his chest as they relaxed into the darkness, it only taking moments for them both to succumb to their exhaustion, Gabby falling asleep to the rhythmic rise and fall of Matt's chest beneath her head.
So, looks like we'll be finding out the gender of baby Casey here soon! And on another note, Matt and Gabby have both been opening up more and not letting things boil up inside them, which is always good.
One thing I've found a little amusing is that I've gotten some reviews mentioning how you all are just waiting for something bad to happen. And it made me realize how the show really conditioned us for that, didn't they. Like any time things are going well, we're just waiting for something bad to happen. I dunno, I thought it was kind of funny how many people mentioned it. Like, the show really put us through the ringer didn't it. But, in response to that, I'm won't say it'll be all sunshine and roses here on out for Dawsey, but for now, things seem to be going pretty well for them.
Also, I did get a review asking if there was going to be any time jumping, and to answer that, yes there will be. This chapter already skipped ahead a few weeks, and that'll continue on throughout the pregnancy. We won't be skipping over important moments or anything like that, but if I were to keep going at the pace I am right now, this story would be well over 100 chapters before they even had the baby. So, yes, short answer, there will be some time jumping. Nothing too drastic or crazy, just enough to keep the story moving forward.
One last thing, I saw a lot of reviews mention that you all are missing Jemma, and believe me so am I. She'll be back very soon, I promise!
Can't wait to hear what you all thought of this one, thanks for reading!