Hello everyone! Here's the next chapter for you all, I hope you all like it. Sorry about not having an update for you on Thursday, I didn't have much time this past week, but I hope you all like this one. I really enjoyed writing it.

I really hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas and a great holiday, thank you so much for all the kind wishes and words you all left me on the last one, you all are seriously the best. I'm so excited to hear what you all think about this chapter, hopefully you like it! Happy reading!

Also, I am gonna try my hardest to get an update of If We Never Say Goodbye done this week. I know a lot of you are waiting on it, I'm sorry it's taking so long, I'm gonna try and get that posted soon!

Chapter Seventy Four

A soft smile formed over Casey's face as he watched his wife and daughter, Gabby sitting in the chair beside him as she gently bounced Sofia in her lap, the baby clearly excited by the movement as happy noises left her lips. Gabby had her hand placed precisely over Sofia's chest, keeping her daughter in place as she played with her, trying to keep her daughter occupied while they sat in the waiting room.

Gabby was so caught up in playing with their daughter, she didn't even notice her husband's stares, Matt unable to pull his attention from the two most important people in his life as Sofia held onto her mother's free hand tightly, Gabby's index finger clasped in her fist.

"You're being such a good girl, Sofia." Gabby murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of her head as she rubbed her hand across her baby's chest, the four and a half month old swinging her arms around as she completely captivated her mother's attention.

As his gaze moved from his baby up to his wife, his eyes stopped when the jewelry around her neck that caught in the light, his smile growing when he saw her wearing the necklace he'd given to her a couple of weeks ago.

On top of his biggest Christmas surprise to Gabby of her mom coming to visit, he had also gotten her a few other things, including the 'S' pendant currently resting against her neck. He wasn't sure how she'd like it, Matt knowing Gabby wasn't the biggest fan of wearing jewelry, but when she'd opened the necklace, and saw an 'S' stamped into the small silver circle, Matt knew he'd done a good job when she started tearing up. It wasn't that he wanted her to cry, but the fact that his gift for her, something that represented their daughter, brought tears to her eyes, he knew it meant a lot to her. And the fact that she had barely taken it off also showed him how much she loved it, Matt feeling his heart swell in his chest every time he caught a glimpse of the necklace resting against her skin.

But that wasn't the only present he'd given her, Matt having gotten her a few other little things, like a new phone case, Gabby's old one scuffed and broken from how many times Sofia had inadvertently either dropped it herself or caused Gabby to drop it, as well as a few printed out pictures of the three of them, Matt figuring she could use a few new ones for her locker at the firehouse. Most of the other things he'd gotten her were more everyday necessity type things, like things he knew she needed for how often she was breastfeeding, and a few different types of bath salts and soaps for her to try out, along with a gift certificate for her to go get an actual massage, all of which Matt knew she appreciated just as much. But his favorite gift for her, aside from the necklace, wasn't so much a gift for her as it was a gift for them, Matt having gone out and gotten her some new lingerie. It wasn't anything too crazy, it was just a simple two piece set, something he knew she'd be comfortable in, and something he knew he'd thoroughly enjoy taking off of her, and the look on her face when she'd opened it late in the afternoon on Christmas Day gave him all the assurance he needed that she liked the gift just as much. And even though they hadn't found the time to use that Christmas gift just yet, they were both looking forward to it.

"Sof, I don't think Daddy's paying attention."

Gabby's voice pulled him from his thoughts, Matt's eyes moving from her necklace up towards her face, seeing an amused expression covering her features, a sheepish grin forming across his lips as he glanced back and forth between his wife and his daughter.

"Sorry, what were you saying?" He asked, Gabby shaking her head as she continued bouncing Sofia in her lap.

"Sofia was trying to get your attention." She responded, Matt looking down to see Sofia wiggling around in her mom's lap, the little girl clearly having just noticed her father sitting beside her, eagerly wanting to be in his arms.

"Oh, I'm sorry Sof, come here baby." He replied, reaching out for his daughter, Sofia giggling as she was brought into her dad's arms, Matt holding her chest against his, her small hands resting on his cheeks. Matt began puffing them out, Sofia continuing to laugh as he filled his mouth with air and then released it, the baby clearly amused by his cheeks moving in and out, her little palms smacking against his face excitedly.

"Where'd you go?" Gabby asked, Matt stopping his game with Sofia to look towards his wife, his eyebrows raised as the little baby in his grasp continued smacking his face.

"Hmm?"

"Just now, you seemed far away… You alright?" She elaborated, Matt immediately giving her a nod, not wanting her to worry.

"Oh yeah, I'm fine." He responded, seeing Gabby raise her eyebrows, clearly waiting for more of an explanation. "I was, uh, thinking about Christmas… one of the gifts I got you in particular." He elaborated, keeping his voice low, Gabby's cheeks instantly filling with warmth as she glanced around the near empty waiting room, Dawson shaking her head slightly.

"Behave, Matt." She murmured, earning a chuckle from her husband as he patted Sofia's back.

"You asked… And I didn't say which present I was thinking about, you're the one with the dirty mind Mrs. Casey." He teased her, Gabby gnawing on her bottom lip as she stared ahead, her gaze focusing out the large windows, watching the snow fall down around Chicago.

"Mhmm, I'm sure." She responded with a chuckle, rubbing her hand along the back of Sofia's head, the young girl pausing her smacks to her father's face when she felt her mom's hand, Sofia turning to look at her and flashing her a wide smile. "Yeah, there's my girl. Hi baby." She cooed, Sofia continuing to smack Matt's face excitedly, her hands getting more lethal, Casey having to pull his face away as the movement earned another laugh from his wife.

"Easy there Sof, let's not hurt Daddy." Matt spoke, Sofia giggling, loving having the attention of both of her parents. Casey couldn't help but smile when he saw the look of pure joy on his daughter's face, their little girl happy as she always was, even though she had no idea what was being said to her.

"It's kinda crazy to think about even having another one…" Gabby spoke up after a few seconds, Matt glancing towards her. "I mean, I know that's why we're here, but it's just… Somehow I can imagine us having more kids, but at the same time I can't imagine it being anyone other than just the three of us." She breathed out, shaking her head slightly. "I don't even know if that makes sense."

"It does." Casey was quick to assure her, Gabby looking up from their daughter, meeting her husband's eyes. "I know exactly what you mean… Of course I want more kids, that hasn't changed, but it is weird to think about." He replied, Gabby running her tongue over her bottom lip, nodding slowly as she looked back to their daughter, reaching out to grab her small hand. "I can't imagine loving someone else as much as I love her. I mean, obviously I would, but it seems impossible… And it's kind of nice, it being just the three of us right now." He continued carefully, Gabby raising her eyebrows slightly, Matt unsure of what she was going to say.

"Do you think..." She cut herself off to clear her throat, Matt listening closely, waiting for her to continue. "Do we think maybe we should-"

"Gabby."

Both of them looked over to see Amanda standing in the now open doorway, a soft smile resting over her face as she looked at the family of three.

"We're ready for you, if you wanna come on back." She prompted, Gabby and Matt both nodding as they began gathering their things, knowing the rest of their conversation would have to wait.

Matt held onto Sofia tightly in his grip, picking up the diaper bag as well before he stood up, Gabby grabbing all their coats and winter gear before they followed Amanda into the doctor's office.

"We can go ahead and stop by the room first, let you drop that stuff off then we'll come back and get your weight." She spoke softly, Gabby nodding in response as they walked down the familiar hallway, stopping at the exam room Gabby had been in dozens of times, Amanda opening the door for them.

Casey walked in first, Sofia's eyes wide as she looked around the new environment, Matt sitting down in one of the chairs beside the table, adjusting Sofia in his lap while Gabby placed their coats in the seat beside him.

"I'll be right back." She told him, Matt giving her a nod before refocusing his attention on Sofia, Gabby slipping back out into the hallway with Amanda.

While she was gone, Matt got Sofia comfortable in his lap, the little girl not content until she was sitting facing forward, her back pressed up against his stomach, her body resting in his lap as he kept a secure hand on her chest.

It took only moments before Gabby and Amanda were both back, Sofia wiggling around happily when she saw her mom, Gabby stopping to press a kiss to the top of her head before she climbed onto the table.

"Alright Gabby, I'm sure you remember the drill with all this." Amanda spoke lightly, Gabby nodding with a grin as the nurse began taking her vitals, Sofia watching on in wonder. "She's gotten so big." She mused, occasionally glancing to the baby while she checked Gabby's heart rate.

"I know, she's growing up so fast." Gabby responded, her eyes locked on her baby.

Amanda was right, Sofia definitely had gotten bigger than the last time anyone here would've seen her, but the girl was still incredible small for her age. For as chubby of a baby as Matt had been, Sofia definitely took after her mother, the young girl a little smaller than a normal four and a half month old. But at each of Sofia's check ups, her doctor raved about how well she was doing, so neither of the parents were concerned really. They were told from early on that they'd be having a small baby, so Sofia's stature wasn't too much of a shock to them.

"Alright Gabby, everything with you is looking good. Dr. Tanner should be in here in a few minutes, so you all just sit back and relax." She instructed, typing a few things into Gabby's chart before pushing the stand over towards the wall, Gabby giving her a small smile.

"Thanks Amanda."

"Of course. It was so good to see you all again." She spoke sweetly, Matt and Gabby both flashing her appreciative smiles, Matt nodding in agreement as she headed for the door.

"You too." He responded, Amanda giving them a slight wave before exiting the room, closing the door behind her.

The couple found themselves in a comfortable quiet, Gabby resting back on the inclined table, her hands placed over her stomach as Matt focused his attention on Sofia, trying to keep her occupied. While he was playing with Sofia, Matt would occasionally spares glances towards his wife, seeing her chest rise and fall steadily as she laid back with her eyes closed. He had wanted to maybe continue the conversation they had started out in the waiting room, Matt desperately wanting to know what she was about to say, but he figured now wasn't the best time, considering he wasn't even sure if Gabby was still awake or not. But it was something he wanted to talk to her about soon, something that he'd been thinking about ever since she asked him on Christmas if he wanted more kids, and that was over two weeks ago. He knew it was something they needed to talk about in more detail, and there were questions they needed answers to, which is exactly why they were here, but this wasn't something that could just easily be decided in one conversation, and he was sure they both understood that.

"I wonder what all she has to say." Gabby spoke up after nearly ten minutes of quiet, Matt raising his head, a little surprised to be hearing her voice. He watched her open her eyes, her head turning towards him as she flashed him a gentle smile. "I hope it's good news… Although I'm not even sure what good news would be."

"Good news would be your aneurysm not being an issue anymore." Matt responded softly, Gabby nodding in agreement. "...If you even still have aneurysm. Honestly, I don't know much about this." He admitted. "Since yours ruptured, I don't know if it's even still there, or if it's gone now… Or if it is gone, if another one could form, I have no idea."

"Yeah, I don't either." She responded, Matt nodding slowly. "I mean, I knew about my aneurysm, but I don't know much about them in general. But hopefully Dr. Tanner knows a little more about it than we do." She spoke with a grin, Matt chuckling as he gave her another nod.

"Man, I sure hope she does." He replied jokingly, Gabby's smile widening just as the door opened, both parents turning towards the sound.

"Well, hello there Caseys." Dr. Tanner greeted with a bright smile, Gabby and Matt mirroring her look as Dawson pushed herself up, the doctor walking further into the room. "And there's the little angel, oh my goodness look at her." Dr. Tanner spoke lightly, squatting down in front of Sofia, rubbing over her chest. "Hello little girl, yes you are absolutely precious, aren't you?" She continued, Sofia nearly screaming with joy at the attention, even though she had no idea who this woman was. "She looks like she's doing well." She finished, her words obviously directed towards the parents as Sofia grabbed her hand, clearly intrigued by the woman who had given her so much attention.

"She is, she's doing really great." Gabby spoke, earning a bright smile from her doctor.

"That's amazing to hear, I'm so glad." She responded, tapping against the back of Sofia's hand before standing back up, Matt quickly distracting Sofia so she didn't get upset at Dr. Tanner walking away. "And how are you doing, Gabby? It's been awhile since I've seen you, are you still feeling okay?"

"I am, I'm feeling great. Everything's going well lately. I'm back at work, Matt and I both are. It was a rough adjustment for all three of us, but I've been back for about a month, and I think we've all pretty much got a handle on it." She explained, Dr. Tanner nodding understandingly as she sat down on the stool, sliding closer to her patient. "It took some time, but we had a lot of help getting through it. We found a great nanny for Sof, her name's Becca, she's absolutely incredible. She's helped us out so much… But yeah, all three of us are doing well. I think we've finally found a good rhythm with everything… We're just taking things a day at a time." She finished, Dr. Tanner listening intently.

"Well, that's pretty much all you can do with a baby." She replied knowingly. "But that's wonderful to hear, I'm so glad things are going well… I do have to admit, though, I was a little surprised to see your name come up on my schedule, although I am excited to see you all." Dr. Tanner prompted, wanting to hear from Gabby what exactly brought them here, even though she already knew.

"Yeah, we um… Matt and I have been talking about the idea of having more kids." She started, Dr. Tanner giving little in the form of a reaction, "so we really just wanted to come and see what all was going on with me. I mean, I know before we said this would probably be my only pregnancy, but that was before the aneurysm ruptured, so I wasn't sure if that changed anything… Really we're just here because we want to know what our options are." She rambled, Dr. Tanner smiling warmly at her before nodding, beginning to tap away on the tablet in her hands.

"That's understandable. When I heard what you were wanting to come in for, I had the same questions as you, in regards to your aneurysm. Because the thing is, until we get a look inside, it's impossible to tell, which is why I had you go and get those scans done last week before you came here." She started, Gabby and Matt both listening intently. "Every single aneurysm is different. In your case, as you know, yours ruptured. I was able to get your artery sutured, and everything was fine. Now, obviously, since your aneurysm ruptured, it's not there anymore. But I still wasn't sure what damage had been left behind because of it, which, again, is why I had you do those scans. Because even though the aneurysm may be gone, that doesn't always mean everything healed properly, and that there might be some residual problems from it rupturing… But I am happy to report that, from what I can see, everything on your scans came back clear." She spoke, seeing a cautious look of optimism cover Gabby's face, while Matt still seemed hesitant. "I didn't see any cause for concern on any of your images, your right iliac artery looked good, which was clearly my main area of concern. But everything looked great, as far as the effects of your aneurysm are concerned. You're completely healthy, Gabby."

Gabby blew out a relieved breath, sparing a quick glance to Matt who flashed her a supportive smile, unable to reach out to her as he was keeping Sofia balanced in his lap.

"That's fantastic, baby." He spoke with a bright grin, Gabby nodding, her smile matching his as she looked back to Dr. Tanner.

"So I'm okay? There's nothing to be concerned about?"

"As of now, no." Dr. Tanner replied, Matt's eyebrows furrowing at her choice of words. But it didn't seem to phase Gabby.

"And, um… it would be okay for me to get pregnant again?" She asked hesitantly, Matt rubbing his hand along Sofia's stomach, the little girl oblivious to the seriousness of the conversation around her.

"Technically, yes. It would be." She answered, Matt's confused look never lifting.

"What do you mean technically?" Casey asked quickly, Dr. Tanner's gaze flashing towards him, both Matt and Gabby waiting for her answer.

"I mean what I said, that technically it is okay for Gabby to get pregnant. There's nothing from a medical standpoint that would have me caution you against it. But, with that being said, we'd need to be careful." She began to explain, neither of the parents completely sure of what she meant. Sensing their confusion, Dr. Tanner placed the tablet down in her lap, knowing she'd need to backtrack a little bit. "Gabby, your scans came back clear. Everything looked great, I saw no signs of any residual damage from your aneurysm, I didn't see anything that would make another pregnancy be a high-risk one, but if, or when, you were to get pregnant again, we would need to keep a close eye on you."

"Why?"

"Because once you have one aneurysm, you're predisposed for more." She responded, Gabby pursing her lips together before she nodded slowly, the paramedic glancing towards her husband, his face unreadable. "So even though everything's clear right now, there's no way for me to guarantee it would stay that way throughout a full term pregnancy. With all the pressure on your system during pregnancy, and all the extra blood flowing through your body, there's no way to know if one will form. That's the only issue here, is that there's no way to know unless it happens."

"But she could also be fine, right?" Matt searched for some clarification, Dr. Tanner giving him an immediate nod.

"Yes, absolutely. This is in no way like what you went through during your pregnancy with Sofia, I want you to understand that." She replied firmly, worrying that she'd unintentionally alarmed them. "You getting pregnant is in no way a guarantee that you'd have another aneurysm, Gabby. In fact the chances are very small. I'm just telling you it's a possibility. It would be something we'd have to watch out for, which we would, but this isn't me saying you'd automatically have one. I'm sorry, I should've done a better job of explaining that."

"No, you're fine." Gabby responded, sparing a quick glance to Matt. "I think we both just get a little on edge whenever we hear anything about an aneurysm."

"That's completely understandable." Dr. Tanner replied, flashing them both a sympathetic smile. "It was your reality for a very long time, but you don't have an aneurysm right now, it's not something you need to worry about unless it happens, which there's a good chance it wouldn't. Yes, you having a previous aneurysm predisposes you for more, but that doesn't automatically mean you'll have one. I'm not trying to scare you, or talk you out of getting pregnant, just as your doctor, I have to tell you these things." She added, earning a nod from Gabby.

"I'm glad you told us, that's why we're here. We want to know if this is something I could do or not." Gabby responded softly, glancing towards her baby. "My pregnancy with Sofia… It was one of the hardest things I'd ever experienced in my life. And not just from everything that happened during it, although none of that was easy, but from a mental standpoint… I tried to enjoy it as much as I could, but there was always that thought in the back of my mind that this could kill me." She breathed out, gnawing on her bottom lip. "I'd do it all again, I'd do it in a heartbeat for her, but through my entire pregnancy me and Matt just assumed that was my only chance to be pregnant, for me to carry our children. So, whether the answer's good or bad, I just wanna know if you realistically think it's an option for us. Because we want more kids, at some point, and if I can't, or shouldn't, carry them, I want to know." She finished, Dr. Tanner's face softening as she looked between the parents.

Dr. Tanner could tell how badly they wanted this, how badly they wanted to be able to have more children, the hopeful looks on their faces giving them away as they sat across from her. And she wanted that for them. After seeing up close how emotionally and mentally jarring their pregnancy with Sofia had been on the couple, she wanted them to be able to experience a pregnancy that didn't have so many ups and downs, that wasn't a life or death situation. And while all pregnancies are different, and there's no such thing as a 'normal' pregnancy, she knew their one with Sofia had definitely thrown a fair share of challenges at them. They went through so much before their little girl actually got here, and while the doctor knew they'd both do it again for Sofia, she didn't want them to ever have to experience anything like that again.

But she had to give them all the information. She wouldn't sugar coat anything, and she wouldn't over exaggerate either. She would give them all the facts, and do whatever she could to help them come to a decision.

"I think it would be perfectly fine for you to get pregnant again, Gabby. If that's what you two decide." She answered, Gabby's entire body relaxing as she glanced to Matt, her husband flashing her a supportive smile. "Everything I'm seeing right now, there is no reason you can't have a perfectly healthy and safe pregnancy… Of course, I'd want to keep a close eye on you, but it would be nothing like what we did with your first pregnancy, not unless the situation warrants it. But from all your scans and the ultrasound images, you're looking great, Gabby." She spoke, Dawson's smile widening. "Your artery looks great, I don't really see any issues there at all. You've healed incredibly well." She added, seeing Gabby release a relieved breath, Matt cradling Sofia to his chest with one hand, reaching his other out to rest on his wife's knee, giving her a supportive squeeze.

"With everything I'm seeing here, although I do want to do my own ultrasound today, there's no reason you couldn't have a perfectly healthy pregnancy, if you all choose to have Gabby carry your child. We'd be careful, we'd keep an eye on you, and if a problem does arise we'd go from there. That kind of is the issue in these situations, is that we don't really know if there's a problem until it happens. But, again, that's only me telling you that it's a possibility. I want you two to have all the information."

"We do, too." Gabby replied, Matt nodding in response.

"So if she were to get another aneurysm, would it be the same sort of situation like we had with Sofia? Would it risk her life?" Casey asked, Gabby quickly turning to look at Dr. Tanner, wanting to see her reaction.

"There's no way to know." She responded, grimacing slightly. "Aneurysms are unpredictable, as you two have found out. If she were to get one, it could be dangerous, but it could also be nothing. The concern with Gabby's aneurysm was the location, that's why it was so dangerous, because of the amount of pressure that gets put on that part of the body during pregnancy. But if she were to get another one, that doesn't automatically mean it's life threatening, or even dangerous. That's why I don't see an issue with you getting pregnant again, because the chances of you getting another aneurysm in that exact spot are very slim. Of course, it could happen, but it's a very, very small chance." She told them, earning nods from both of the parents. "But, there is still a chance, so that's something you might want to take into consideration. It's up to you two, at this point. Because, from what I'm seeing, I believe you could have a very healthy pregnancy, Gabby. If you two decide to do this, that you want to get pregnant, I'd be there every step of the way to help guide you through it in any way that I can." She told them, even though she was sure it went without saying. "And if you decide you don't want to take the risk, even though the risk is very small, and where we stand right now, there really is no risk, but if you decide you'd rather not chance anything, then I can help you go from there, as well. We can figure out what route you all would want to take, and I can send you to people I trust, who I know would be able to help you. It's just whatever you two decide." Dr. Tanner finished, taking a deep breath.

She knew she threw a lot at them, but both of them seemed to be digesting the information well, neither of them looking too uneasy or concerned, which is what she wanted. She just wanted them to have all the facts, and then come to an informed decision from there.

"Do you guys have any questions?" Dr. Tanner prompted after a few minutes, wanting to give them some time before speaking up again.

"Um, I don't really know. I'm sure I do, but I can't really think of anything right now." Gabby spoke, Dr. Tanner nodding understandingly.

"Of course. This isn't a decision you need to make today…"

"Yeah, no it's definitely something we need to talk about." Matt spoke up, Gabby nodding in agreement.

"I know it is. And you two have my numbers if you do have any questions, but there is one thing I do want to talk to you about before we move on…" She started, Gabby's ears perking up slightly.

"Is everything okay?" Casey questioned before his wife could. In the year they'd known Dr. Tanner, Matt knew whenever she said those words, they usually weren't followed by good news, and that thought had his body tensing slightly.

"Everything's fine, like I said, Gabby's perfectly healthy, everything's looking great." She assured them, flashing them a comforting smile before continuing. "But, if you do decide to get pregnant, I would advise waiting a few more months before trying again." She told them, Matt raising his eyebrows slightly. "There's nothing wrong with Gabby, I promise." She was quick to clarify, knowing Matt usually assumed the worst, Dr. Tanner turning her attention back to Gabby. "But your body went through a lot of trauma, both during your pregnancy and then during your delivery, and it's only been four and a half months since you began healing. Pregnancy is hard on the body regardless, but after everything you've gone through, I'd feel more comfortable if you waited for at least a few more months." Dr. Tanner finished, Gabby and Matt both nodding.

"I get that, and, I mean, we just started really talking about it." Gabby started, glancing towards her husband, "I don't think we're wanting to try right this second, we just wanted to know what the options were." She explained, Dr. Tanner giving her a nod.

"I definitely understand that. And if it happens, it would be fine, I don't want you to worry. As I said, medically you're alright, but it would just be easier on you if you were to wait a little bit." She responded, Gabby and Matt both nodding. "Alright, well unless you have any more questions, I wanna go ahead and do a quick ultrasound, just let me look at a few things, then you all are free to go." She instructed, Gabby nodding as she began to get ready for the ultrasound, Dr. Tanner preparing the machine as Matt focused on keeping Sofia occupied, even though the little girl was more intrigued by what was happening to her mom than she was with the toy in Matt's hand.

The scan went by quickly enough, Gabby paying more attention to Sofia than she was the images, knowing she wouldn't be able to tell much of what she was looking at anyway, and within twenty minutes, they were done.

"Well, as I suspected, everything with you is looking great." Dr. Tanner spoke as she wiped the gel off of Gabby's flat stomach, beginning to put everything back in its place as Gabby adjusted her clothes. "You all are free to go, as long as you don't have any more questions." She prompted, earning head shakes from both the parents, Matt holding the pacifier up to Sofia's mouth while she sucked on it, the little girl having been distracted by that for the past five minutes or so, Sofia beginning to get a little restless. "Alright, well, whenever you all have figured out what you'd like to do, come see me and we'll go from there. It was great to see you all again, especially little Sofia here." She spoke, sliding over to wave goodbye to the baby, Sofia beginning to laugh behind the pacifier, the object falling down into Matt's hand. "I'm glad you all are doing well."

"Thank you." Gabby murmured, Dr. Tanner playing with Sofia for a few more moments before standing up, the little girl beginning to fuss immediately.

"Oh come on now, Sof, she's gotta get back to work." Matt spoke, Sofia wiggling around in her father's lap, not liking being constrained as the nice lady who'd been playing with her began to walk away. Dr. Tanner chuckled softly as she watched Matt try and distract his daughter, the girl soon captivated by the toy Matt held in front of her face, Sofia waving her hands around before she started grabbing for it, the baby completely forgetting that she'd just been upset seconds prior.

With one last goodbye, Dr. Tanner left the family alone in the room, Gabby hopping down off the table as Matt stayed in place. It took them a few minutes, but they managed to get all three of them dressed in their winter clothes, knowing it was necessary with the cold and snow outside, even though Sofia put up quite the fight when she had the be put down to be zipped into the onesie-like puffy coat. It was a thick, fluffy onesie that covered her entire body, aside from her face, that Sofia loved once she was in, but she always resisted being put into it, as she did with most clothes. But soon enough, they were all bundled up, ready to brace the winter weather.

They said their goodbyes to everyone as they left the office, practically every worker in Dr. Tanner's practice knowing who they were, Gabby cradling Sofia to her chest as Matt led her to the elevator.

They had been walking in almost complete silence, Gabby sparing quick glances to her husband as they rode down to the first floor, Matt oblivious to her stares as he focused straight ahead, Sofia's diaper bag slung over his shoulder. When the elevator dinged and the doors opened, Matt looked towards Gabby, nodding at her to go ahead of him as they walked out, maneuvering around the few people standing there waiting to get upstairs.

"So, how are you feeling about all this?" He spoke up as they walked outside, snow immediately hitting them as they got onto the pavement.

The second Sofia registered the snow around her, the baby emitted a loud squeal of delight, Sofia flailing her arms around in excitement, both Gabby and Matt knowing how much their daughter loved the snow. They knew she still didn't even understand what it is, but that didn't matter; whenever Sofia saw it, she was happy. And both parents found it a little amusing.

"Yeah baby, it's snowing." Gabby murmured, Sofia's excitement never diminishing as they continued down the sidewalk towards the parking garage. "And, um, well I guess I'm glad to know everything's okay with me."

"That makes me feel so much better." Matt breathed out, Gabby glancing towards him with a soft smile. "I mean, I knew you'd been okay since having Sofia, but still, I didn't know what the aneurysm rupturing meant for you long term. I'm just glad it's gone."

"So am I." She agreed, Matt bringing his free hand to wrap around her back, keeping her and their baby close to him as they walked through the crowds of people out in Chicago. "I guess I'm a little worried that I might get another one eventually, but even with that, I don't know, she said there was a good chance nothing would happen. I know whenever we start trying to figure this out, it'll be something to take into consideration, but at least I'm fine right now."

"That's what's important." He replied, rubbing along her back gently. "But, uh-..." Matt cleared his throat, Gabby glancing to him. "What were you gonna say before we got called back there?"

"Hmm?"

"You started to say something, we were talking about another baby, and how we were feeling about it, and you were about to say something before Amanda came out." He elaborated, Gabby pursing her lips together before she nodded, focusing her gaze forward as realization flooded her system.

"Yeah, uh… I was. It was about all this, about us having another baby." She started, Matt waiting for her to her continue. "And I do want that, I want to have more kids with you, I absolutely do… But ever since I asked you about it, I've just been thinking that maybe it would be best for us to wait until Sofia is a little older." She replied quietly, Matt raising his eyebrows. "We've finally found a good rhythm and routine with her, and I want us to be able to enjoy that. To enjoy her. Not that we wouldn't with another kid, that's not what I mean, but just-... We went through so much with Sofia, before she even got here, and I want to be able to enjoy the time with the three of us for awhile." She breathed out, their steps slowing slightly, Gabby anxiously waiting to hear what her husband had to say.

She knew he wanted more kids, she's always known he wanted a big family, so she wasn't exactly sure what type of reaction she'd get. Gabby knew her being to one to bring up them having more children in the first place told him it was something she wanted, they both knew that hadn't changed, but she just hoped he wouldn't be upset about them waiting awhile.

"I agree."

When those two simple words left his mouth, Gabby's eyebrows raised considerably, Matt biting back a chuckle at her reaction.

"What?" He asked when she hadn't said anything, still clearly amused by his wife.

"You feel the same way?" She asked, Matt giving her a nod as they came to a complete stop on the sidewalk, standing off to the side to be out of the way, Sofia still captivated by the snow falling down around her. "Why didn't you say anything"

"Because I knew how excited you were." He replied softly, seeing a gentle grin form over her face. "And the thought of having another child with you made me so excited, too. I want that with you, I want everything with you, but I also kind of just want it to be us and Sof for a little bit." Matt continued, keeping his arm around her as they stood on the pavement. "I mean, the fact that you and Sofia are both here, and both healthy…" He cleared his throat, shaking his head as he was reminded of everything that happened to her the day Sofia was born, "...as far as I'm concerned, it's a miracle you two are both here." He finished, Gabby frowning softly as emotion filled his voice, but Matt shook his head, smiling softly at her, silently assuring her that he was okay. "I just think we should enjoy it for a little bit, before we have another one. I think you're right, I want to have some more time with just the three of us, let us get to really enjoy this time with our girl. She's already growing up so fast, as it is." Matt continued, Gabby soon matching his smile. "I don't know, I kind of like the idea of if just being us for a little while longer… I want more kids with you, that'll never change. But I think we should wait." He finished, Gabby nodding slowly before she leaned in, capturing his lips with hers.

Their movements were slow, and gentle, Matt grinning against her as he pulled her closer, being mindful of the small girl in her arms. After a few lingering seconds, Gabby pulled back, Matt running his hand along her back as he glanced to the baby in between them, Sofia babbling away as the snow fell down around them.

"So we're on the same page?" She asked, her bottom lip tucking in between her teeth as Matt brought his free hand up to rest over Sofia's back.

"We're on the same page." He confirmed with a nod, Gabby smiling before kissing him again quickly, the moment only lasting for a few seconds, the couple not wanting to stay out in the cold much longer. "But, I do think it's good we came here." He spoke as they continued walking, his arm still firmly around her as they moved in step with one another. "I mean, we won't be trying, but if it happens, it happens. We know now it won't be like what we went through with Sofia, and we'd figure it out." Matt continued, Gabby nodding in agreement. "I'm just glad to know you're okay."

"Me too." She responded as the couple entered the parking garage, Matt leading the way to their car. "I am glad we saw her, and, when the time comes, we can talk more about what our options are, but I like the idea of it just being us for awhile." She echoed his earlier statement, Matt nodding as they got to the car, Casey pulling the keys from his pocket.

"I do, too… Me and my two girls." He replied with a bright grin before opening the back door, putting Sofia's diaper bag behind the passenger seat before he turned back to his wife, finding her watching him with a similar smile.

"Yeah, let's get your two girls home." Gabby spoke lightly, Matt giving her a nod before he carefully took Sofia from her grasp. "Your daughter is gonna need to be fed here soon, and she'll definitely need a nap."

Matt began buckling his daughter into her carseat, ensuring she was secure as he fastened every strap. "And maybe while she's napping you and I could have some time to ourselves." Matt spoke as he lifted his head out of the backseat, Gabby raising her eyebrows as she tilted her head to the side, crossing her arms over her chest.

"You're still thinking about that Christmas present, huh?" She asked teasingly, a sheepish grin covering his face as he took a step towards her.

"Maybe." He replied, Gabby scoffing lightly right before he pressed another kiss to her lips, Matt gripping her waist to keep her in place against him, Gabby relaxing into him. They separated when air became a priority, a shy look covering her face as she glanced around, suddenly remembering they were very much in public. "Now come on," He spoke, smacking her hip lightly before he pulled away. "Let's get you home." He replied, pressing a gentle kiss to her head before stepping back completely, closing Sofia's door and walking around to the drivers side of the car, Gabby moving to her side as well, both of them eager to see what the afternoon had in store for them, especially once Sofia went to sleep.

Gabby finished pulling back her hair into a low ponytail, her eyes focused on herself in the mirror as she got ready for work, her dark grey long sleeve CFD shift already tucked into her pants, her boots tied into place as she prepared herself for the long day ahead. All that was left was for her to put on her watch and grab her coat and she'd be all ready to go.

The same could not be said for her husband, however, Gabby watching on as he moved around the bedroom behind her, his shift pants the only clothing covering his body as he hurried to get himself ready.

Both Gabby and Matt had woken up on time this morning, the parents intending to go through their usual morning routine on days when they worked; Gabby would feed Sofia while Matt showered, then Matt would take over once Sofia was done nursing, the father burping her and changing her, making sure their girl was content before he began getting ready for the day, the parents watching her until Becca arrived.

But this morning, Matt never made it into the shower while Gabby was nursing their daughter, and then he'd gotten a little sidetracked when he was spending time with Sofia, the Captain completely losing track of time. Which now resulted in him running around like a mad man as he hurried to get ready, neither of them wanting to be late for work.

Turning around to face him, Gabby couldn't stop the soft smile that fell onto her face as she caught sight of his wedding ring, the jewelry catching in the light as he pulled his white shirt on over his head.

"Enjoying the view?"

Matt's teasing voice filled her ears, Gabby's vision snapping into focus as she looked up towards his face, finding him watching her with a smug grin.

"Definitely." She replied without missing a beat, Matt chuckling as he began tucking his shirt into his pants, Gabby pushing herself off the dresser, feeling her husband's eyes following her as she moved. "I'm gonna go out there, get our bags together. You gonna be ready soon?" She asked as she moved towards the door, stopping to grab her phone off the nightstand.

"Yeah, I'll be done in a second." He answered, Gabby giving him a nod before she slipped out of the bedroom, closing the door behind her as Becca and Sofia came into view, the little girl giggling happily as Becca walked around with her in the living room, the nanny bouncing her in her arms. When Becca had showed up around ten minutes ago, that was when Matt realized just how late he was pushing it, Gabby having quickly taken the baby out to her nanny while Matt began to get ready.

Stepping closer towards the living room, Gabby couldn't help but smile when she saw how Becca was with her little girl. It had been something she was nervous about, Gabby and Matt being able to find someone they trusted to look out for the most important thing in their life. And it had been a long process, finding the right fit for them, but Becca was, without a doubt, that right fit. Sofia had bonded with her in a way that Gabby never really expected, but it was clear that the nanny had Sofia's complete and utter trust. Sofia knew she was safe with her, and that was all Gabby wanted. She wanted someone Sofia loved, someone Sofia felt secure with when her parents weren't around, and Becca provided her with all of those things. The bond they'd created over the past month since Gabby had returned to work was deeper than either Gabby or Matt realized, and it had been incredible to see. There was no denying how much Sofia loved her nanny, and it was obvious Becca loved her just as much.

Aside from her parents, Sofia wasn't as comfortable with anyone else. They had a beautiful connection, and, despite their struggles with getting back to work, Becca had made that transition so much easier. If not for her, Gabby knew it would've been a lot worse. Becca just had this way with Sofia, and it was something Gabby never wanted to take for granted. She knew Sofia was safe and in the best hands possible while they were at work, and it made being away from her daughter for that long so much easier.

"Hey Gabby." Becca spoke brightly when she saw her standing there, Gabby flashing her a warm grin as she stepped further into the room. "You and Matt about to leave?" She asked, tickling Sofia's stomach yet again, causing the little girl to erupt into a fit of giggles, Sofia bouncing in her hold excitedly.

"Yeah, we are, here in a few minutes." She responded, Becca giving her a nod before focusing back on Sofia, the little girl smacking her hands against her upper chest, Gabby smiling in amusement at how rambunctious her daughter was for it being so early in the morning. "Do you have anything planned with Sofia today?"

"No, not really." She replied, flashing her a warm grin. "I'd love to take her on a walk, but not if it's gonna be too cold. I'm not sure what we're doing, but I know we'll have fun, won't we Sof?" Her voice changed pitches, Sofia's eyes widening in delight as Becca gave her attention, the small girl becoming more and more excited.

"Oh, I know she'll have a great time, she loves being with you." Gabby spoke, hearing the bedroom door open behind her, the sound of Matt's boots against the ground hitting her ears.

"Yeah, we have fun together, huh Sofia?" She replied lightly, Sofia releasing another squeal of joy as Becca continued bouncing her, Matt and Gabby both watching on with smiles on their faces. "Hey Matt."

"Hi Becca." He greeted, resting his hand on Gabby's lower back as he came up behind her. "We should probably get going babe, I don't wanna be late." He spoke, Gabby giving him a nod before she began walking towards Sofia, wanting to say a quick goodbye to their daughter.

Surprisingly it only took about five minutes for both Matt and Gabby to say their goodbyes to their daughter, which was a definite change from the usual twenty it took to pull the parents away from her.

"Alright Becca, we'll be back tomorrow morning. We'll see you then." Gabby said as she zipped up her thick coat, the woman nodding as she used Sofia's small arm to wave goodbye to her parents, the little girl oblivious to the fact that her parents were about to leave her. "Call us if you need anything." She added, like she did every morning before they left for work.

"I will, I hope you guys have a good day, be safe out there." Becca said the similar sentiment she told them each morning as well, all three of them having fallen into routine together these last four weeks.

With a few more quick goodbyes, the parents were out the door, Casey locking the back door in place before he and Gabby began the walk towards his truck, their glove covered hands clasped together while snow fell down around them, both of them preparing themselves for the long work day ahead of them.

Gabby pushed open the bathroom door, moving through the hallways of the firehouse as she made her way back to the common room, the paramedic stretching out her exhausted limbs while she rolled out her neck, the long morning having taken it out of her already. It was only a little past one, but it had already been a very long day for the men and women of 51, the bad weather outside keeping them busier than usual. 61 had been slammed with back to back calls, and truck and squad hadn't had it much easier, either. But luckily, everyone had been back at the house for a little over an hour, giving them time to sit down and actually get some lunch. And Gabby could only hope they had a little bit more time before getting called out again.

As she got closer to the common room, she saw Severide walking out, moving towards the double doors to head out to the garage, the Lieutenant flashing her a warm smile before he disappeared outside, Gabby walking into the room he'd just left.

Everyone was still where she'd left them five minutes ago, her eyes immediately moving towards her husband, Gabby walking back towards the chair she'd previously occupied, which happened to be right beside him.

"Hello." He greeted when he felt her presence, Gabby running her fingers along the back of his neck as she walked behind him, the paramedic returning to her seat. "You feeling okay?" He asked, knowing she'd gotten up pretty abruptly moments prior.

"I'm good." She responded with a smile, taking a sip of her drink as he nodded, Matt getting a quick bite of his meal. "Just a little tired."

"Yeah, me too… It's been quite the day. Hopefully things will settle down here soon." He replied, Gabby giving him a nod just as the door swung open quickly, the abrupt noise gaining the attention of everyone in the common room, seeing an alarmed looking Severide hurrying in.

"What's going on, Severide?" Herrmann asked, but the man ignored him, Kelly's eyes quickly finding the couple sitting together at the table.

"Casey, Dawson, I need to see you guys for a second." He spoke roughly, Dawson's eyebrows furrowing as she glanced towards her husband, seeing him wearing a similar expression, but he started to get up regardless. Whatever Severide needed to speak with them about, it clearly had him a little rattled.

"What's going on, Sev?" Casey asked, but the man said nothing as he and Dawson followed him out into the garage, leaving behind a group of confused firefighters and paramedics in the common room.

"What's wrong, Kelly?" Gabby tried as they walked through the garage, a shiver running through her body as they got closer to the driveway, her jacket not doing much to protect her from the cold winter air.

Severide continued leading them down the driveway, Matt and Gabby following along, even though they were very confused, and had no idea what was going on.

"Severide." Casey tried again, holding onto Gabby's arm as they maneuvered over the patches of snow and ice beneath their feet. "What happened?"

"I came out here to get something from my car, and I saw this." He spoke as his steps slowed down.

"What are you talking about? Saw what-"

A gasp from Gabby cut him off, Matt's eyes moving forward as he instantly saw what caused that reaction from his wife, and what Severide was talking about, Casey taking slow steps forward as he took in the sight in front of him, his eyes widened in shock as he came face to face with his truck.

His truck that had all four of its tires slashed.