Here's the next chapter for you guys. It's time to find out what Matt and Gabby are having!
I hope you enjoy!
Chapter Forty Three
"So, it's definitely been a while, Gabby." Chaplain spoke as he sat down in his chair, smiling at the couple across from him. "And even longer since I've seen you, Casey."
"Yeah, I know it has. There's a lot that's happened since I was last here, but things for us have been going well. It's been hectic, but good."
"That's good. And that's kind of the nature of my job, Gabby." He offered with a small smile. "I'm here when you need me, but when we don't see each other for awhile, it's usually a good thing." Gabby nodded softly, matching his grin. "But I do want to apologize for it taking so long to get you all scheduled, it's also been a little crazy around here as well."
"Oh, it's fine." She waved him off, the older man nodding, crossing his legs as he relaxed into his seat.
"So, how far along are you?" He questioned, his eyes moving towards her stomach. He could only really see the outline of her bump because she was cradling it through her sweater, but it was definitely there.
"Almost eighteen weeks." She replied with a bright grin.
"And how are you feeling?"
"Probably the best I've felt, so far. I had really bad morning sickness during my first trimester, thankfully that's eased up. I've started developing the usual pregnancy symptoms; swollen ankles, back pain, all that fun stuff, but energy-wise, I'm feeling great."
"That's good." He spoke, glancing towards Matt, the man seemingly a little lost in his own head. The Chaplain knew, vaguely, of why they were here, Gabby having given him some information when they'd spoken on the phone early last week, but he wanted to hear it from the man himself. He knew he needed to ease them into it, he wanted to spend a bit of time catching up with them, knowing that would help them feel a little more relaxed and more receptive to opening up about what brought them here. "And how's work been?"
"Well, I've actually started back at 51 since I was last here." Gabby saw his eyes widen in surprise, clearly shocked at the news.
"Oh, wow."
"Yeah. I've been back for about a month now."
"What brought that on?"
Taking a deep breath, Gabby began explaining the events that led to her decision, starting with her trip to the hospital and going from there, stopping to answer any questions he had along the way. While she spoke, she had her hand resting on Matt's thigh, Casey placing his hand over hers, occasionally giving it a reassuring squeeze.
"Well, you weren't kidding when you said it's been hectic." The Chaplain spoke, blowing out breath. "How has it been being back at the firehouse?"
"It wasn't as much of an adjustment as I was expecting. There's definitely a change in the dynamic, things aren't like they used to be. My first few shifts were probably the hardest, after the excitement of the first few calls wore off, it took me some time to really get back into it. But I think I've found my new normal at 51, I've accepted things aren't gonna be like they were before with some of the people there. But overall, it's gone well." She explained, glancing towards Matt. "Just like he said it would." Her words earning a small smile from him, Gabby rubbing her thumb against his leg.
"And your other job?"
"It's been great." She spoke, her grin widening. "I love being there. I wish I could work there more than I do, but I'm glad to still have my friends there. Under the circumstances, I think I've made the best out of the situation. I'm thankful to be working both places. I didn't want to give up my job, and getting the extra time with Matt has been great."
"I'm glad it all worked out, and that things are going well at 51." He replied, tapping his pen against his notepad. "And how have you been doing? Still managing alright?"
"I am." She answered, feeling Matt's grip on her hand tighten. "I haven't really had any problems dealing with my anxiety or anything. I mean, there's times I get nervous still, in situations where I probably wouldn't have before, but I'm not sure that will ever go away. I think that might just be part of who I am now. But I'm doing good." Her voice was soft as she spoke, Gabby sparing a quick glance to Matt before continuing. "There was an, uh, incident, I guess, at Molly's a couple of weeks ago. Some drunk guy grabbed me, wouldn't let go." The Chaplain's eyebrows furrowed in worry as he listened to her story, Gabby's eyes on her and Matt's joined hands. "I kind of expected it to bring all that up again, bring up the attack, but it really didn't. Even when it happened, I wasn't really scared. I was nervous, and had it gone on any longer than it did I might've gotten scared, but I knew Matt was there. I knew that nothing was gonna happen to me. I don't know, but it didn't affect me like I expected it to."
"I'm sorry that happened, but I'm proud of how you were able to handle it."
"Yeah, and I've been back there since. I worked another shift and everything was fine."
"That's great, Gabby. I mean, obviously not that it happened, but how you dealt with it. You've made great strides in getting past what happened to you. I know it's not something you can ever forget, but you're not letting it affect you and control your life. You've found a way to move on from it. I'm proud of you."
"Thanks Chaplain." She responded softly, his words bringing a smile to her face.
"And what about you, Casey?" The Chaplain asked, turning his attention to the Captain. "How have you been?"
"Well, uh," Matt cleared his throat, shifting in his seat as he caught the man's gaze. "I've been alright. Worried about Gabby, but it's been great getting to work with her again. I love having her back at the house. We've been doing well."
"And how's the pregnancy been for you?"
"It's been hard." He admitted, his voice soft. Gabby felt his grip on her hand tighten, almost like he was afraid his words would make her pull away. "Don't get me wrong, I've loved experiencing this pregnancy with her, it's been amazing. I've tried to enjoy as much as I can, because no matter what happens I know this is really our only chance at Gabby carrying our child, and I want to be able to enjoy that. But it's been hard."
Gabby brought her free hand up to rest against his arm, gripping him tightly as she scooted a bit closer to him, able to feel the nerves radiating off his body. She didn't want him worrying about how she'd react to his thoughts. They were here to help him feel better, for him to work through his feelings. The last thing she wanted to do was make him feel nervous to do that.
"What about it has been hard?" They all knew the Chaplain knew the answer, but he wanted to hear it in Matt's words. He wanted to hear from Casey exactly what he was struggling with.
"I'm afraid of losing her." He murmured after a few moments, his eyes plastered to the ground. "I was hoping that if I just completely focused on our child, that if I put all my energy into immersing myself in this pregnancy, that it would go away. Or I could at least get a better handle on it, but I haven't." Matt breathed out, shaking his head slightly. "I thought I was doing better... I know I have come to terms with this, that there's nothing I can change about the situation and I've accepted it. But I can't seem to get rid of this fear. It's all I can think about now, is how something might happen and she'd be taken from me." Casey took a deep breath, trying to regain some sense of his composure, despite his emotions wearing him down. "Ever since we told the house about this pregnancy and what could happen, it's like I haven't been able to think of anything else. It's always on my mind, and it's killing me."
Matt hesitantly glanced to Gabby, seeing her watching him with unshed tears in her eyes. She gave him a reassuring smile, needing him to know it was okay, that what he was feeling was alright.
"It's not because of the baby. I'm so excited for our child, and being able to experience this pregnancy has been incredible. But I'm scared."
"I'm scared too, Matt." She responded quietly, their eyes locking. "I'm so scared of what might happen. I'm terrified of not being able to be here to experience our child's life. That I might leave you to do that alone. I wish there was a way I could promise you it might not happen, but I can't. You know I can't. But for as scared as I am, you know what helps?" She waited for some sort of reaction from him before continuing, seeing him shake his head. "I start thinking of you with our child. I hope, more than anything, I'll be here to see it, but knowing our kid is gonna have you, I know they'll be alright."
"But I don't have that, Gabby." He whispered, emotion coating his voice. "I don't have the reassurance that you'll be there for them, and it kills me."
"I know." She replied softly. "I would do anything to change the circumstances around this pregnancy, but all I know to do is enjoy every moment I can. Because we don't know what's gonna happen. I'm trying not to worry about things we have no control over, because I know we're taking all the precautions we can. If these are some of the last moments I have, I won't regret it. I've already been able to see you take care of and love this child. No matter what happens to me, the both of you will be fine." She saw the pain that flashed in his eyes, Matt shaking his head.
"I can't be fine without you, Gabby. I can't raise this baby alone."
"Yes, you can." She assured him. "You will be fine, Matt. Maybe not at first, maybe not for awhile, but eventually, you will be okay. And you'll have our beautiful baby. You'll be their entire world, and they'll be yours. You're going to be an amazing father, I have no doubts about that."
He blinked furiously, a lone tear escaping down his cheek as he looked down to their hands, his breath shaky. "...I'm scared I might resent them."
"What do you mean?"
"If something happens to you, I just- I don't know how I could look at them and not think about how they're the thing that took you from me." He whispered, tears welling in her eyes.
"Matt, I know you don't believe that." She responded firmly, dropping his hand to reach for his chin, forcing him to look at her. "I know you're scared, but I know you, Matt. This baby is gonna be the most important person in your life, whether I'm here or not. I'm not worried about how much you'll love them. You could never resent our child, and I know you know that."
"I love them so much, Gabby. I do. But I'm terrified to do this alone… They need you, they need their mom. I can never be enough for them." He spoke shakily. "And I feel terrible for thinking that there's even the possibility of me resenting them if something happens to you, but I can't stop thinking about it and it's making everything harder."
"Casey, it's not wrong to feel the way you're feeling." The Chaplain spoke up, Gabby moving her hand down to his chest as he looked to the older man. "I know you're worried, and you have no idea how to fathom raising this child without Gabby. But she's right. The first time you see that baby, your entire world is going to change. You have to hold onto how much you love them, you don't have control over anything else."
"I understand why you're feeling like this, I do." Gabby continued, needing him to know she wasn't mad or upset with him for how he was feeling. "But I've seen how you are with our child already. I know you're already in love with them, that love is only going to grow when you meet them. Nothing will change that, not even something happening to me. I've known you for a long time, Matt, and I know you'll be the most amazing father, you'll love them more than life itself, whether I'm there or not. You are more than enough for them."
Matt gave her a soft nod, Gabby wiping the few tears from his cheeks as he leaned into her hand momentarily.
"I know there's nothing I can say to make this better, Casey." The Chaplain spoke after giving them a few moments. "There's nothing any of us can do to change this. All you can do is hold onto the hope that she'll be okay. That's the only way to get through this. And I know it's easier said than done, that this is something that will always be in the back of your mind. But you can't let it control you."
"I'm trying not to." He responded quietly, his voice shaky.
"Tell me this, when you think of something happening to Gabby, what does it feel like?" The Chaplain asked, Matt's eyes falling closed, grimacing at the thought.
"It feels like… like I can't breathe. Like my entire world has gotten ripped away from me, and that's not something I can handle."
"And when you think of your baby? What is that like?" The Chaplain continued, seeing Matt take a deep breath. "Without factoring in what might happen, or the thought of doing this alone. When you think of just your child, what does that feel like?"
Matt thought over his question for a few moments, trying to find the right words to use.
"Hopeful." He answered truthfully. "I feel hopeful that everything will be okay. That Gabby and I will be able to watch them grow up, and hopefully not screw them up too much in the process."
"And when you think of your child, every time you think of some milestone they'll have, is Gabby there?"
"Always." He responded without missing a beat.
"You have to hold onto that. That hopefulness, the feeling of experiencing your child growing up, you need to focus on that instead of worrying about something you can't control. This'll bury you, otherwise." The Chaplain spoke, Matt nodding slowly. "You do have to accept that something might happen to her, you can't pretend it's not happening. But I know you have. You wouldn't be here if you hadn't accepted the possibility that something could go wrong. But you can't let it take over your life. Regardless of what happens, you'll always have a piece of Gabby with you. You'll have your baby. That hope you feel when you think of them, that's how you'll get through this."
Matt looked towards Gabby, seeing a soft smile on her face, tears of her own falling down her cheeks. He reached for her hand again, holding it tightly in his, giving her a reassuring nod.
"You have to lean on each other, you have to rely on those around you. Everyone at 51 knows now, reach out to them if you need it. Lean on them. Come back to me, do whatever you need to do when you start feeling this way and it's too much. Don't try and take this on alone."
"I won't." Matt responded, his voice hoarse.
"We're gonna be okay, Matt." Gabby responded. "Whatever happens, I'll never stop loving you, or our baby. And I have no doubt in my mind that you will be the most amazing father. I know you two will be okay."
He nodded slowly, Gabby leaning over to wrap her arms around him, Matt relaxing into her embrace, their emotions overwhelming them both as they held onto each other for dear life.
Gabby laid quietly on her side in the dark room while she had her hand placed firmly against her stomach. She first noticed it when she had come back from the bathroom nearly ten minutes ago. At first she thought it was just her stomach rumbling, or maybe some gas. But the second time it happened, she knew it wasn't either of those things.
She had definitely felt her baby move.
And now she was waiting to feel it again.
As she was in her eighteenth week, she'd known for a few weeks it could be any day now when she'd feel her baby moving. She had tried to stay patient, knowing that while some mothers experienced movement quite early on, others couldn't feel anything until later. As each day passed, she was just waiting for the first time she'd feel her baby move, and now she had.
Gabby had lifted up Matt's shirt that covered her body, placing her palm over her bump, waiting to feel those movements again. She knew her hand wouldn't be able to feel anything, but she was hoping the warmth of her palm would elicit some type of movement from her child.
Twice she had almost dozed back off while waiting, the sound of Matt's steady breathing beside her nearly lulling her back into unconsciousness, but despite the early hour, each time she fought it off.
Her hazy eyes snapped open when she felt it again, a warm smile falling onto her face as she felt those flutters inside of her. This was her baby, and feeling them move for the first time brought tears to her eyes, Gabby being given just another reminder that they were safe and that they were healthy.
Leaning forward, she moved her free hand towards Matt's chest, poking her finger against his skin.
"Matt." She whispered, poking him again, hearing him grunt as his eyes slowly opened. "Matt." She whispered again, seeing him blink furiously, trying to figure out what was happening.
"What? What's wrong? Are you okay?" He questioned quickly, rubbing the sleep from his eyes as he turned onto his side to face her, resting on his elbow.
"I just felt the baby move." She spoke softly, her watery eyes shining.
His hand instantly flew to her stomach, Gabby frowning as she knew he was about to be disappointed. She hadn't really thought it through, the fact that he wouldn't be able to feel anything yet, and she felt a little bad for waking him now.
"I don't feel anything." He spoke after a few moments, Gabby bringing her hand up to run through his hair.
"I know, it'll be awhile before you can feel anything." She saw his face fall slightly, but his hand stayed against her stomach, his thumb rubbing over her skin. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have woken you up, I just got excited." She spoke with a sheepish grin, Matt shaking his head.
"No, I'm glad you did." He replied, tapping his pinky against her hand as they both rested over her expanding belly. Matt placed a quick kiss to her lips, feeling her smile against him, her hand rubbing over his scalp as he pulled back. "What does it feel like?"
"Almost like that feeling you get when you're nervous, like butterflies in your stomach. Kind of like that." She responded after a thoughtful moment, trying to figure out how to best describe it to him since he couldn't feel it.
"This is the first time you've felt it?"
"Yeah. I got up to go to the bathroom and when I came back, I felt it. At first I wasn't sure what it was, but they're definitely moving around in there." She spoke lightly, Matt's smile widening before he leaned in to kiss her again.
"Thank you for waking me." He spoke against her lips, pressing one last quick kiss to her lips before sliding down the bed, stopping when he was eye-level with her stomach. "Good morning, little one." He spoke, placing a soft kiss to her rounded abdomen. Gabby had definitely started to show, to the point where it was pretty difficult for her to hide her belly. While a large enough shirt could do the trick, in her usual clothes, there was no hiding it. Her stomach wasn't huge, but her bump had definitely formed and popped out a few days ago.
When he had first noticed it, it took him by surprise. She had looked pregnant to him for awhile, but now that she was noticeably pregnant, it elicited a feeling inside of him he couldn't explain. He couldn't get enough of seeing her and her bump, of holding it, of holding her. It's like he was continuing to fall even more in love with her and their child. It ignited something protective inside of him, Matt knowing he had to do whatever he could to keep the both of them safe. There was something about the rest of the world being able to see her bump that brought out this feeling in him. But seeing the woman he loved carrying the child he loved, it filled him with an indescribable warmth.
"You're up early this morning." He continued speaking to her stomach, Gabby relaxing against the bed as she listened to the sound of his soothing voice. "Although with Momma up and moving around, I'm sure that's what woke you." Matt continued stroking his thumb over her stomach, occasionally placing kisses to her skin before lightly resting his cheek against her. "I'm a little jealous that your Momma gets to feel you before I do, but she's earned it. You have kind of put her through the ringer." An amused smile graced Gabby's lips as she listened to him, Matt speaking as if he and their baby were the only two in the room. "But despite everything she's going through, she's taking it like a champ. She is so strong, and I know you will be too."
Gabby felt tears stinging her eyes as she listened to him, his soft words hitting her ears, filling her with a warmth and security that only he could provide her. Seeing Matt like this was something she never wanted to take for granted. Since she first met him, she'd always seen his tough and firm demeanor. In their line of work, that type of exterior was necessary for him to be able to lead his firefighters. But when they began their relationship all those years ago, she'd come to see the soft and loving side to him, Gabby witnessing first hand just how gentle and caring he could be, a side he usually didn't show except when it came to her. He'd always been a good person, she knew that before they got together, it was part of why she'd fallen for him, but she had no idea just how loving he could be, not until they got together.
But seeing how he was with their unborn child was something new altogether. His guard was completely down, there was a vulnerability in him, one that made her fall in love with him all over again. He wasn't the firm yet fair Captain she was so used to seeing, he was Matt. He was all love, and there was something so heartwarming about seeing him this way.
Seeing him as a dad.
She'd seen him take on that role in the past, both as a temporary guardian to the Darden boys, and then when they fostered Louie, but something about this was different. While he loved the Darden boys, they weren't his children. And with Louie, they would always cherish the short amount of time they spent being his parents, but they never got to experience life with him before he was born. This was something completely new to them.
"You know, in a few days we're gonna find out whether you're a boy or a girl, and I'm so excited." He murmured, Gabby stroking her hand over his head. "I think Momma believes you're a boy, but I'm not so sure." He continued softly, Matt picking up her hand from her belly, interlocking their fingers. Gabby felt his breath against her stomach, the sensation causing goosebumps to rise on her skin. "But it doesn't matter what you are, all that matters is you're happy and healthy. Even though I'm almost certain you're a girl." He spoke lowly, Gabby chuckling softly, seeing Matt glance up at her with a shy grin on his face. He gave her hand a squeeze before looking back towards her stomach.
"But you should try and get more sleep, little one. You have a big day with Momma and Aunt Jemma. They're gonna go spend all of Daddy's money while he's at work." He teased softly, tapping his fingers against her bump, earning a playful eye-roll from Gabby. "But even though you're gonna be spending the day with Momma, don't forget about me. Daddy loves you so much, alright? And I can't wait to meet you."
Matt placed another kiss against her stomach, lingering momentarily before he climbed his way back up the bed, laying beside her, resting his head in his palm. Gabby's hand came to rest on his cheek, stroking her thumb over his skin as she gave him a soft smile, tears shining in her eyes.
"You okay?" He questioned softly, using his free hand to fix her shirt, pulling it back down to cover her body.
She nodded slowly, her smile widening as she leaned forward, placing a soft, slow kiss to his lips.
"I just love you, that's all." She responded, Matt grinning as he adjusted their positions, falling down onto his back, pulling her into his side.
"I love you too."
The couple fell into a comfortable quiet, Gabby's head resting against his bare chest as they laid together, Matt moving his fingers in soothing circles over her hip, focusing on her breathing.
It was still early, but Matt was too wired to go back to sleep. He'd have to get up in a little less than an hour anyway to get ready for shift, so he figured he'd just stay up, spend a little more time with Gabby and their baby, whether she fell back asleep or not.
Today was his shift this week where Gabby wasn't working with him, and Matt found himself dreading it a little. Over the last month, he'd been a little less excited to go into work on the days where she didn't come with him. He knew she couldn't, and shouldn't, work every shift he does, Gabby having done her shift at the SAS yesterday, but that didn't mean he wouldn't miss her.
It came as no surprise to him that they had easily fallen back into the rhythm of working together again, and Matt absolutely loved it. Being able to spend that extra time together made him so happy, and it gave him peace of mind knowing he was close by if anything happened. He loved going into work with her, Matt much more excited to get to shift on the days when she was in the passenger seat riding along with him, as opposed to days he drove alone. He enjoyed getting to spend most of his days with her again, whether they'd be with everyone else out in the common room, or the times they'd hide away in his office. Whether they went there together, or she came and sought him out, he loved the quiet moments they shared when she would come and spend time with him, even though it usually ended with her taking a nap. And he very much enjoyed the few times she'd fallen asleep in his bunk instead of her own, Matt not having the heart or desire to move her as they made the small space work. Considering he knew that here shortly they wouldn't be able to share a bunk anymore, for the comfort of Gabby and safety of their baby, he wanted to enjoy it while he could.
He just loved everything about working with her again, it was something he'd missed more than he realized. Something he knew wasn't gonna last forever. He would never pressure her to return to the 51, but now that she was back, he wasn't looking forward to her leaving again.
They're here right now because they got placed at the same house. Had they not worked together, they probably never would've met. Or even if they did, it most likely would've been in passing, and might not have led to the same outcome. They fell in love gradually, seeing each other week after week, getting to know one another through the years of spending entire days together at a time.
He owed finding the greatest love of his life to this job, and he hadn't realized how much he'd missed that part of their life until she came back.
Matt knew she'd probably never return to 51 full-time, and he was okay with that. It wasn't his decision, and he knew how much she loved her new job, he'd never want to take that from her. But it didn't stop him from missing her when she wasn't there. He just knew he had to enjoy the time they had working together while he could, and he planned on doing just that.
Casey blew out a soft breath, glancing down to Gabby, seeing her already in a deep slumber, soft snores escaping through her lips as she clung to him, her bump pressed into his waist.
Smiling softly, he placed a light kiss against the top of her head, his eyes falling closed as he focused on the feeling of her body against his, his hand moving from her hip to her stomach, sliding under her shirt to rest against her stomach.
He would never get tired of these moments, and despite him being eager to meet their child, he wanted to make sure to soak in these special times between the two of them while he could, knowing they wouldn't last for long.
Gabby followed Jemma through the store as they searched for the maternity section, the expectant mother happy to let her friend lead as they walked around. Although most of her clothes still fit, Gabby knew they wouldn't for much longer. She'd already put in the request for bigger sizes of her shift clothes for both 51 and the SAS, and the next step was her everyday wear.
When she had mentioned yesterday on shift that she was thinking about going to buy some new clothes soon, Jemma all but jumped at the chance to go with her. Gabby knew how much of an adjustment her new work schedule was for her friend, and she'd be lying if she said she wasn't taking it just as hard. Gabby missed her partner, which led to her eagerly accepting Jemma's offer to help, wanting more time with her.
"So, do you know what all you're wanting?" Jemma asked as they found the clothing they were looking for.
"Honestly, I don't want much. I don't want to spend a lot of money on things I'll only be using a few times." She replied, Norris nodding. "Aside from a couple pairs of pants, maybe some leggings, and a few shirts, I don't want to get much more than that, not right now at least." Gabby spoke, Jemma shooting her an understanding smile.
"Sounds good. For the shirts, were you thinking more like nicer clothes, or comfy ones?"
"Mostly nicer stuff, shirts for when I leave the house. I'm not sure how much Matt loves it, but at home I usually just steal his clothes anyway." Gabby responded, earning a chuckle from her friend.
"Oh, I'm sure he has no problem with it." She replied, Gabby shaking her head with a grin as they moved around the section.
They had found a few things Gabby thought would work, the woman mostly interested in the leggings, knowing they'd grow with her throughout this pregnancy. She's gotten a few nicer shirts, all them loose and lightweight, considering she'd be heavily pregnant all through the summer, and the last thing she would want was heavy clothes weighing her down.
"How is Casey doing, by the way?" Jemma asked out of the blue, Gabby glancing back towards her. "I know you said he was still having a rough time."
"He's doing better... It's still hard for him, I know he has a difficult time not thinking about what might happen, but since our talk with the Chaplain, he's seemed to be feeling better about it." Gabby responded, resting her hand on her back. "I just wish I could do something to make it easier on him."
"I'm not sure if there's anything you can do, Gabby. There's no easy way to deal with this, for either of you."
"I know. I'm just holding onto hope that everything will be fine, and the worst case scenario won't happen. I know I can't control it, but I would give anything to not put him through that... I don't want to leave him, or our baby." She mused quietly, flipping through the stack of shorts in front of her. "I'm think I'm gonna get these." Gabby spoke, changing the subject as she held up a pair of navy shorts.
Knowing not to push the topic, Jemma simply nodded with a smile. "Yeah, you should. They'd look great on you."
They spent about ten more minutes looking around before Gabby decided she had enough items, Jemma carrying the clothes over her arm for her friend, despite Gabby's multiple protests. As they were walking back towards the front of the store, Gabby's steps slowed when they approached the baby section, her eyes roaming the tiny clothes as her hand instinctively went to her bump.
"You want to look?" Jemma asked with an encouraging grin, Gabby nodding slowly before they walked towards the clothes, Gabby's hands running over the material.
"It's crazy to think they're ever this small." She murmured, picking up a plain white onesie.
"Have you gotten anything for the baby yet?" Jemma asked, Gabby shaking her head.
"No, we haven't. Matt and I need to start talking about that, though."
"Well, it couldn't hurt to look around, maybe get a few things for the kid." She spoke. "I know you don't know what you're having yet, but that doesn't matter so much, your kid will look cute no matter what you put them in." Jemma told her, Gabby's smiling widening as she nodded, the two beginning to look around.
It was a little overwhelming, Gabby thinking of more and more things that needed to be done before they had this baby, especially because there's a chance she might not be here for that. She didn't want to leave Matt without things he'd need, just in case something happened. As they looked around, she kept making mental notes of things she needed to do and buy, Gabby knowing she'd need to actually write it down soon or she'd forget.
"Oh, Gabby you have to get this." Jemma said excitedly, holding up a onesie with distinct words written across the front, along with a large picture in the middle, Gabby chuckling as Jemma walked towards her. "It's perfect. And I know Casey will love it."
Gabby nodded, holding the clothing in her hands, running her thumb over the lettering. "Yeah, he will." Jemma was right, she had to get this, if for anything just to see the look on Matt's face.
After some more time looking around, Gabby found a few more items she wanted to get before they went to check out. It wasn't until the cashier had finished ringing up her things that she realized the onesie she wanted to show Matt wasn't here. She turned to Jemma to see if she knew where it went, but her question was answered when she saw it in her friend's hands, the woman holding it along with her wallet.
"I wanna get this for you guys."
"Jemma, you don't have to do that."
"I know, but I want to. In fact, you're gonna have to get used to a lot more gifts from me. As their self-appointed aunt, it's my duty to spoil little baby Casey." She spoke, an appreciative, small smile falling onto Gabby's face.
"Are you sure?"
"Absolutely. It's the least I can do. Now hurry up and finish checking out, I want some lunch." She teasingly chastised, Gabby shaking her head before she paid for her things.
It didn't take long for them to finish up at the store, Jemma carrying the bags towards her car as Gabby followed behind her.
"So, uh, I know you're hungry, but how do you feel about having lunch at a firehouse?" Gabby asked quietly, Jemma turning towards her with a smile. "I want to go see Matt, if you don't mind. We could have lunch there."
"Of course I don't mind. You'll just have to tell me how to get there."
The two women climbed into Jemma's car, Gabby leading the way towards the firehouse, the drive taking around half an hour in the early afternoon traffic. But soon enough, they pulled up outside the house, Jemma finding a relatively close parking spot.
Before they went inside, Gabby grabbed the bag with the onesie from the trunk, a knowing smile falling onto Jemma's face. "I want Matt to see it." She explained with a sheepish grin, Jemma nodding before they began walking towards the house.
When they got close enough, Gabby could see the garage completely empty, Jemma following her closely as they walked into the large room. "I guess they're out. We can go in and see what we can find, maybe I can whip something up for lunch before they get back."
"Are you sure it's okay that I'm here?" Jemma asked hesitantly as she looked around her new surroundings, Gabby shooting her a confused glance as they entered through the double doors.
"Of course it is." She responded, the paramedics walking into the empty common room, Gabby heading towards the counter, placing the bag with the onesie down before moving into the kitchen to try and find something to make. Quickly scouring the fridge and pantry for a suitable lunch, Gabby decided on making turkey sandwiches. It wasn't anything special, but she knew it would be appreciated.
Jemma soon took up a position by her side, beginning to cut up some tomatoes while Gabby began tearing off some lettuce. They had just gotten started on building the sandwiches when the door opened, Gabby looking up to see Brett and Foster walking in.
"Hey guys." Gabby said, her presence clearly taking them by surprise.
"Hey Dawson." Emily responded first, her and Brett walking towards the two women.
"We didn't expect to see you here today. Hey Jemma." Brett greeted with a smile, the woman smiling back.
"Yeah, Jemma and I were out getting me some new clothes and we decided to stop by. You guys want a sandwich?"
The two paramedics nodded, Gabby putting two of her finished sandwiches on some plates, handing them to the women.
"Thanks for this, Dawson."
"Of course. Where is everyone else?"
"Finishing up at a call, we had a house fire." Foster explained. "We took our victim to the hospital, then were told they were almost done, that we could just head back." Gabby nodded understandingly, hearing the sound of rigs backing up just as Emily stopped talking.
It didn't take long for the firefighters to start piling in, Gabby waiting for one in particular who had yet to appear.
"Dawson! It's great to see you, kid." Herrmann spoke, coming up behind the counter, giving her a quick hug.
"Hey Herrmann." She responded, handing him a plate with his lunch on it, the older man smiling wide.
"You're the best." He placed a quick kiss on the side of her head, Gabby smiling as he headed for the table. Everyone had settled in, Jemma having taken up a seat by Brett, but Matt, along with Kelly, had yet to appear. Gabby knew he was unaware of her visit, but she didn't expect to have to go searching for him. She plated her and Matt's lunch, as well as one for Kelly, putting a few extra pickles on Matt's plate while she waited for him.
At the sound of the door opening, she looked up, seeing him walking in with Severide. The second Matt registered her presence, a wide smile broke out onto his face.
"What are you doing here?" He asked, his voice showing his confusion and excitement.
"Jemma and I decided to stop by. I made you some lunch." Matt patted Jemma's shoulder as he passed her, making his way around the counter.
"Thank you, baby." He whispered, placing a kiss on the back of her head as he stepped around her, coming to stand in front of the plates, his eyes searching for his. Gabby handed off a plate to Kelly, the Lieutenant smiling appreciatively before going to take up residence next to Kidd. Gabby slid Matt's plate in front of him, his smile widening as she took a bite of her sandwich.
"You wanna sit down?" He asked, Gabby shaking her head.
"No, I'm good right now. How was the call?"
"It was good, no casualties or anything." He responded, taking a bite of his pickle. "Did you find some stuff?"
"I did. And I found some stuff for the baby." Matt's eyes widened, a smile forming on his face.
"Yeah?"
"Mhmm. Most of it's in the car, I can show you tomorrow. But there is one thing I wanted to show you today. Jemma bought it for us, and for the little guy."
"Little guy?" Herrmann's voice boomed through the room, the older man turning around on the couch with a wide smile covering his face. Clearly he'd been listening in on the conversation between the two as they stood in the kitchen, Gabby chuckling as she shook her head.
"Calm down, Herrmann." Matt spoke, earning laughs from around the room.
"We don't know what we're having yet. We should find out in a few days though." Gabby explained, Herrmann sighing.
"Dang it, I got all excited."
"Yeah, because you'd win some money." Gabby shot back, his eyes widening slightly, a sheepish look covering his face.
"You know about that, huh?"
"That you all placed bets on whether we're having a boy or a girl? Yeah, I know." She replied, her eyes narrowing at the older man.
"Severide started it!" He defended, putting his hands up before turning back around, Gabby scoffing lightly.
"Yeah, and I have bets on a girl. So help me out." Kelly called from the table before taking another bite.
"So, you were saying there's something you want me to see?" Matt changed the subject, Gabby's narrowed gaze moving towards him.
"You really think I don't know you're in on it, too?" She asked, her brows raising. Matt's eyes darted around the room, before flashing her the smile he reserved solely for her, his eyes softening.
"I love you." He responded, Gabby shaking her head as she laughed, tapping his cheek lightly.
"Uh huh. Anyway, yes, I do have something to show you. Jemma found it and got it for us."
"You didn't have to do that, Jemma." Matt spoke to her, raising his voice so she could hear him from her position at the table.
"That's what I told her."
"I wanted to." She responded softly. "Like I told Gabby, prepare for me to spoil that kid. This is only the beginning." She said with a grin, Matt flashing her a smile before turning back to Gabby.
"Can I see it?" He asked excitedly, Gabby's smile widening at his enthusiasm.
"Yeah, but finish your lunch first."
"But I want to see it now." He all but pouted, an amused look covering her face. Unable to resist his begging, she nodded, reaching across the counter to grab the small bag.
"Let's go in there." She nodded towards the conference room, Matt agreeing as they exited the room, Gabby shutting the door behind them. "Alright, close your eyes and hold out your hands."
Matt obliged eagerly, Gabby shaking her head as she pulled the onesie out of the bag, placing the small piece of clothing in his hands.
"Alright, you can look."
Her eyes stayed glued on him as he opened his, a huge smile breaking out across his face when he read the words in front of him, his eyes shining as he gripped the material tightly.
In the middle of the white onesie was a big red firetruck, with the words 'My Daddy is a Hero' written boldly across the front.
Gabby watched as his features filled with joy, his eyes crinkling as he smiled down at the clothing. "I know those things are always kind of cheesy, but Jemma saw it and I couldn't resist. Plus, it's true." She explained, Matt tearing his eyes away from the material, shaking his head slightly.
"No, it's perfect. I love it." He stepped forward, wrapping his arm around her waist to bring her closer to him. "I love you."
He placed a gentle kiss to her lips, Gabby's hand coming up to rest behind his neck, holding them together for a few moments. "I love you, too."
Gabby's leg bounced up and down as she sat on the exam table, nerves flooding her body as they waited for Dr. Tanner.
"Babe, you're making me nervous." Matt chuckled from her side, Gabby's expression softening as she looked towards him.
"Sorry." She breathed out. "I'm just a little anxious. I'm ready to find out what we're having, and this waiting is killing me."
"I know, but she'll be in here soon enough. Don't start stressing yourself out." He warned gently, Gabby nodding as she reached for his hand.
"I'm not, I'm just excited. Pretty soon we can actually start referring to them as a girl or a boy, we're gonna know what we're having and it's just… it's crazy."
"I'm excited too. Hopefully Matt Junior will be cooperating." He spoke with a smirk, Gabby shaking her head.
"Baby, I love you but there's no way in hell we're naming him Matt Junior." She responded, scrunching her nose.
Before Matt could respond, the door opened, Dr. Tanner stepping inside with her tablet in her hands, closing the door behind her.
"Hi guys." She greeted, walking towards them.
"Hi." Gabby responded quickly.
"So, I can tell already that you all are anxious to get to the ultrasound." She started, Matt laughing lightly.
"Yeah, a little bit." Gabby replied, earning a knowing nod from the doctor.
"Well, I have to go through all the usual questions, but I don't want to keep you waiting. All that can be done when we get to my office. You ready to take a look at your baby?"
Gabby nodded eagerly, sliding back on the table, leaning herself back as she got comfortable. She dropped Matt's hand to adjust her clothes, lifting her shirt and moving down her pants so Dr. Tanner could work. As soon as she'd done her part, she reached for Matt's hand again, pulling him closer to her. He stood by her, placing his hand on the top of her head, leaning down to place a kiss on her forehead while Dr. Tanner got the machine ready.
"You still feeling alright, Gabby?" She asked, applying the gel to the doppler.
"I am, I've been feeling pretty good."
"Good, that's good. Alright, let's get started."
The ultrasound began, the screen hidden from their view as Dr. Tanner worked on getting the right images and measurements she needed, Gabby and Matt waiting as patiently as they could, which was proving to be harder than anticipated.
"Alright, well your baby is looking great, everything's right on target. And they're definitely showing off today." She responded with a chuckle.
"You can tell what we're having?" Gabby asked, her voice soft and hopeful, Dr. Tanner nodding with a bright smile. Gabby's gaze fell on Matt, seeing him looking towards the monitor despite them not being able to see it.
"I sure can. Are you guys ready to know?" She asked, Matt's eyes flickering back towards Gabby, their gazes locked on one another as smiles fell onto both of their faces.
"We are." Gabby responded as they turned back towards Dr. Tanner.
Wordlessly, Dr. Tanner moved the monitor, showing them the image of their child, Matt and Gabby staring at the screen in awe.
"Congratulations, you two are having a baby girl."
Gabby's breath caught in her throat as tears filled her eyes, her free hand coming up to cover her mouth while she stared at the image of their little girl. Tears fell freely down her cheeks as she looked up to Matt, seeing him completely focused on the picture, his mouth parted in shock, Gabby seeing his eyes shining. She squeezed his hand, gaining his attention as his eyes landed on her, a wide smile forming over his face.
"We're having a little girl." He whispered, tears streaming down his face. "That's our daughter."
A soft sob escaped Gabby's lips as she nodded, both of them overwhelmed with excitement and joy as he leaned down, kissing her deeply. His hand came up to cradle her cheek, wiping away the tears of they fell, Matt pulling back slightly.
"We're having a little girl." She repeated his words, her voice shaky as tears continuously slid down her cheeks, Matt's smile growing impossibly wider before he kissed her again.
"I love you." He whispered, Gabby's eyes shining. "I love you and our daughter so much."
She nodded slowly, running her hand over the side of his head, watching as a few more tears escaped down his skin.
"We love you, too."
Well, Dawsey now knows what they're having! I've always pictured them having a baby girl, it just seems right for them. Actually, what I'd always hoped would happen on the show for them was a baby girl and Louie, but, you know, that never happened. But I know a lot of you were hoping for a girl, as well. So I hope you all liked this.
I'm excited to hear what you all thought of this one, it was definitely nice to have Jemma back for a bit, I know some of you were missing her.
Thank you so much for reading! Until the next.