The light after darkness

Author: Juliana Alves

Category: Shandy, Romance, Fluff, Cute, Babyfic, Comfort, Happy Ending

Warnings: Nope

Rating: PG-13

Chapters: Oneshot (yes, it's over 8,000 words hehehe)

Complete: [x] Yes [ ] No

Summary: Finding the light in a moment of darkness is one of the hardest things Sharon has had to do, but with Andy's help everything has become more tolerable. And of course, with an added surprise.

Disclaimer: Major Crimes doesn't belong to me, it belongs to the clueless Duff.

A/N: Hi guys... it took me a while, but I'm back. hahahaha

Finally, I finished the cycle of this fanfiction, I'm so happy to know that you liked it and left encouraging comments... it's really great to know that I thanked you with my words. I hope this conclusion pleases you too.

Love you! And soon more stories will come.

P.S.: It is necessary to read: When the Darkness comes to understand the context of this one-shot.


Andy was anxious, and how could he not? The woman he loved was in the operating room having his baby, and he was pushed into the waiting room. Of course, he insisted on staying by her side, but his own blood pressure stopped him, according to the doctor she didn't want to have to take care of two patients.

However, as much as the Lieutenant resented the obstetrician, he knew the woman was right, he couldn't go through so many emotions, not after the heart attack the month before. And him thinking their lives would be quiet after the new year and the whole Stroh case resolved.

In fact, all he got was surprise after surprise, the first being right after his proposal. Andy knew he would stun Sharon with the request, but he didn't think she'd receive something as surprising as this. After the exchanged kisses and assurances that it would be perfect if they were married, Sharon led him to the dining room table and pointed to the package. Andy still didn't know how he didn't have a heart attack at that moment. But the emotion was greater and he found himself crying at the new chance that life was giving him.

6 months ago...

Andy hugged her tight and his heart was overflowing with happiness, the woman he'd loved all his life would now be his wife. Unable to contain his joy, he kissed her almost desperately.

But then Sharon pushed him gently, for a second, he thought she might change her mind, maybe he had been too rash, yet her eyes sparkled and she smiled excitedly.

"What?" He asked with a smile too, but still worried.

"I have a present". She pointed to the table. "I wanted you to open it".

"Ronnie, I don't have anything for you". He felt a little bad now, he'd given away some jewelry for Christmas, but he hadn't prepared anything for New Year's Eve.

"And what do you call that?" She rolled her eyes as she lifted her hand to where her engagement ring was.

Much calmer now, he went to the table and cautiously opened the package. It was a small box and didn't look like a spectacular gift, in fact, he was a little confused by what looked like to be fabric. But then he pulled on the suit and his heart skipped a beat when a tiny blue Dodgers jumpsuit appeared. He stared at Sharon wide-eyed and found her with tears in her eyes and a big smile, but she shooed him away to continue unwrapping. And inside the box there was still a pregnancy test with the two chopsticks almost glowing for him. And as confirmation of all this: an ultrasound image.

"Oh God..." He whispered and had to hold on to his chair, he could feel his vision starting to dim, but he took a deep breath and pulled himself together. "You are...?"

"Yes". Sharon stated in a choked voice. "I found out a few days ago. Do you still want to get married?"

"If I want..." He repeated confused. What kind of question was that? "Ronnie, of course I still want to marry you. In fact, that's an even bigger reason for it". He spoke and then began to laugh. "Oh my God, Sharon, we're having a baby".

Sharon couldn't help but start laughing too. Andy then went to her and hugged her, once again happiness coursing through her veins. He kissed her, but broke away and placed both hands on her still-flat belly. He couldn't believe that Sharon was pregnant, it was as if life was rubbing in his face a new chance to be happy.

"I'm so happy, Ronnie. God... I love you so much". He whispered and kissed her again. "This is the best gift I could get". The Lieutenant spoke and sighed contentedly. "Well... I'm glad I have perfect timing".

"What do you mean?"

"Well- even without knowing this I'm going to make you an honest woman".

"Oh- shut up, Andy". She patted his arm, but smiled anyway.

Andy amusedly accepted that and closed his eyes when Sharon returned to her arms and buried her face in his neck, she looked as happy as he did. The beginning of the year was surprising.


Andy sat down next to Provenza after walking a bit, he knew he was being anxious but he couldn't help himself. Luckily, he wasn't alone, the whole team was there supporting him and he was grateful for that. He didn't have many relatives to help him and the few he did lived in New York and had their own lives, so the team was as close to family as he could get.

"Hey... she's going to be fine". The older Lieutenant spoke beside him. "She is the strongest woman we know. Don't worry".

"I know, just- I wish I was there with her". He sighed a little annoyed.

"And you will be when it's all over". Grumbled Provenza. "Now stop it, I'm not good with emotions".

And Andy knew this well, that was truly hilarious to watch the grumpy Lieutenant go speechless when he heard the news of Sharon's pregnancy. In fact, it took about a month for them to tell the others, they wanted to make sure the first three months went by without any problems, as lovely as the idea of having a child was, they knew that would be a risky pregnancy. Sharon wasn't that young. But thank God, the baby made it through the first trimester and they told the team about the news. He still remembered Provenza's shocked face.

5 months ago...

Andy and Sharon had asked Brenda for a morning off, they both looked anxious and a little worried and that made the blonde apprehensive, that wasn't like they were mysterious before.

However, all her curiosity was put aside when a case arose. The entire team headed to the scene of the crime and not twenty minutes later Andy and Sharon joined them, Brenda got on with the work but kept an eye on the couple and noticed they looked more relaxed now than they had the last week. She hoped they would tell her about what had upset them.

However, Brenda didn't think about this until three days later when the case was finally closed and Sharon concluded the deal with Hobbs. It was lunchtime and the pizzas had been ordered, Rusty hadn't been to school because of a teachers' meeting, and he was there for an essay he needed to write. But what caught the Deputy Chief's attention was Sharon participating in the celebration without complaining too much about all the fat in the food.

Andy and Sharon were further away and talking quietly, both smiling and looking between Provenza and her, Brenda became even more suspicious about what was going on. When they finally finished eating and started moving, Andy stood up.

"Chief and- all of you, actually". He started and this caught everyone's attention. "Me and Sharon have an announcement and a request to make".

Sharon stated and placed herself next to Andy, she looked a little unsure but still firm. That was a look they'd gotten used to seeing the Captain since the attack, and they were honored to get to know that side of her, this was a sign of confidence.

Provenza looked bored, after the wedding announcement, it wasn't like they could surprise him, so the older Lieutenant just rolled his eyes and concentrated on drinking his coffee. But then...

"I'm Pregnant". Sharon said with a smile and Provenza spit out the coffee. His eyes widened and he was completely shocked. Brenda didn't look much different.

Amy was the first to compose herself and ran to the couple with hugs and congratulations, Julio, Buzz and Tao followed.

"What the hell..." Provenza grunted and stood up a little frantically. "What do you mean, you're pregnant?"

The man was livid and confused, his face as red as a tomato and this made Sharon burst out laughing, she tried to help it, but his shock only reminded her of her own father when she told him she was pregnant with Emily.

"Lieutenant, do I need to tell you about the birds and the bees?" Sharon scoffed as she crossed her arms, it wasn't like she needed to explain how she ended up pregnant.

"Don't tease me, Raydor". He almost growled.

"Ok, that's it". Andy spoke up and stepped between them. "Provenza, for God's sake, grow up. I'd like you to pretend to be happy about the news. And Chief, are you okay?"

Brenda blinked a little, but took a deep breath and nodded. She was dumbfounded, but this wasn't really surprising. Sharon was still fertile, that she knew if the scare of months ago reminded them of that. But it was still... surprising.

"I'm fine, just- surprise". Brenda smiled a little. "But... congratulations to you both. It will be nice to have a baby around". The blonde was sincere and hugged them both.

"Thanks, Chief. And I will need a few months when the time comes".

"And you will have". The Deputy Chief spoke.

Sharon was happy to see that everyone seemed happy with the news, everyone except Provenza, he was still arguing with Andy. But it was Rusty who made her smile again, this time in a slightly wicked way.

"I didn't know old people could have babies". Rusty grumbled thinking no one had heard.

"Keep doubting and I'll traumatize you by telling you how I made this baby". Sharon countered with a smile and a raised eyebrow.

The boy made a disgusted face before leaving the murder room and running to the media room. Sharon knew being a mother was great, but being a pseudo aunt was even better if teasing her pseudo nephew satisfied her.

The days following the announcement were a flurry of congratulations, which didn't surprise Sharon too much, someone heard the news and spread it. This time, at least, that was a good thing. However, what surprised her the most was the small package she found on her desk after a week, and when she opened it she smiled and nudged Andy who was beside her eating some peanuts. Inside the package was a small blue Dodgers hat and a note: It's better I be the baby's godfather. - Uncle Provenza.


Susan walked into the waiting room a little breathless, she'd gotten the message from Sharon a few hours ago and tried to get there as quickly as possible. The last few months had been of many changes for the psychologist, after her life crossed with Sharon everything changed, including her professional outlook.

After accompanying the Captain through the trauma of abuse, she resolved to help other women and started going with Sharon to the support group and ended up volunteering as an assistant psychologist. And she was never so happy to be of assistance.

And when Susan got the message, Tessa and some of the other women sent her with a little congratulations package, and she became the support group representative. Andy greeted her with a smile and thanked her for being there, it was important for Sharon to know that more people loved her.

The psychologist still remembered when Sharon told them about the pregnancy during a meeting, and Susan remembered the happiness they all felt.

4 months ago...

Sharon was nervous, not that she wanted approval about the pregnancy, but it was still a sensitive topic to be addressed within the support group. There were some women who lost their babies because of the partner's aggression or some other abuser. And she didn't know if taking such news would be wise.

However, she was so happy that her life was back on track that she needed to share this with others, maybe a little light in the darkness of other women. And she had already told them about the wedding anyway and she knew she couldn't hide it for long, the baby was already visible if you looked closely.

Now much more confident, she made her way to the meeting room, where she recognized that she had become a victim and needed help, and of course, when everything started to get better. As she listened to Tessa welcoming some new people, she felt more excited. As the meeting finally drew to a close, Sharon stood up.

"Hi". She smiled and stared at the friends she had made in such a difficult time. "For those who don't know me, I'm Sharon and I'm a Captain of the LAPD. Just over a year ago I was assaulted and my life turned to hell. But thanks to God and to this group, I managed to overcome it". This time she faced Tessa and Susan who were smiling at her. Then she recounted how she and Andy had grown closer and how that had led to the proposal. And it was at that moment that she sighed and decided to break the news. "As my life has changed because of you, nothing fairer than knowing about another good news. I'm Pregnant".

Susan's eyes widened in surprise, but the big smile that appeared on her face showed how happy she was for Sharon. Rising from her chair, the psychologist went to the Captain and hugged her tight.

"Sharon, what wonderful news". She spoke excitedly. "I'm so happy for you".

"We all are". Tessa commented and hugged her too. "I believe Andy is happy?"

"Yes, more than I imagined, actually".

"Why that?" Susan wanted to know.

"We're not that young, Susan. It will be quite an adventure".

"One you'll be able to get past, I'm sure". Tessa comforted her with a knowing smile. "Now tell me, how did you surprise him?"

Sharon looked at the older woman and started laughing, she didn't know why she was afraid to tell, Susan and Tessa were great friends and the other women would always be there to support her.


Andy was happy to see that Susan was there to support them, but it was his children he was worried about, all of them, in fact, those born and unborn. Rick should have been down a few hours from San Francisco by now and Nicole would meet him halfway. Emily, on the other hand, would take a little longer, as she was on the other side of the country.

And he was so lost in his worries, he barely noticed the phone was ringing. With hands a little shaky, he read the viewfinder and smiled when he saw that it was Nicole:

"Hey, Nick".

"Hey Dad, how's Sharon? I just picked up Rick, we're heading to the hospital. Emis said she's getting on the plane in a few minutes, you know, she was lucky she still had one last seat on that flight. Oh, and I have Charles here with me, he wants to meet the baby. It's okay, isn't it?"

Andy burst out laughing at her daughter's excitement, Nicole had this almost childlike energy when she was excited and the whole pregnancy situation made her totally energetic.

"Nick, take it easy". He said tenderly and smiling. "Sharon is being prepped for surgery and she is doing well. Thanks for picking up Rick and keep in communication with Emily. And tell Charles I'm glad to hear he's coming".

"We'll get there soon, Dad". She said and hung up.

Andy just shook his head with a smile and sat back down, he was a little calmer now. Nicole's excitement made him more hopeful to meet the baby. And he wanted to see the reaction of the children, all four, upon meeting the little child. And if he remembered well the day he and Sharon had told them about the baby, that would be pretty noisy.


3 months ago...

Andy watched Sharon anxiously pace, it took them just enough time to tell their kids that the family was going to grow. Now with 6 months, her belly was showing and the Lieutenant never thought she would look even more beautiful, in fact, Sharon regained the glow she had before the aggression and now she seemed to glow even more.

Their relationship seemed to get even more solid when they discovered the pregnancy, they were enjoying every minute of this. When they got home, they had a little routine of snuggling up on the couch and that time was served for Andy to talk to her belly now showing gloriously. It was at one such moment that the baby moved, leaving the couple breathless with happiness, and Sharon decided they needed to contact the other children. That was time.

With a few calls and appointments made, Emily, Rick and Nicole confirmed the Skype call they would make later that Saturday.

Andy watched Sharon impatiently browse the apartment all day, but when the time finally came, she turned on the computer on the dining room table and waited for the connection. It didn't take long for Rick and Nicole to enter.

"Hey Mom". The boy spoke with a big smile. "I miss you".

"Hi Rick, I miss you too. Hi Nicole". Sharon greeted her with a big smile. "How are you?"

"I'm fine, Sharon. And a little curious about this news, I'm still reeling from the wedding".

Rick rolled his eyes in amusement at the other screen, he had become friends with Nicole after Christmas when they all got together for a big dinner at the condo, the small apartment barely fit the amount of people. But it was nice to have someone else to talk to besides Emily, they all became close.

"I'll tell you soon, let Emily show up".

"I'm right here, Mom". The young woman spoke as the third screen opened. "What happened? It's a good new? I'm so excited". Emily looked as excited as Nicole.

"Yes, it's good news. At least for us". Sharon spoke and smiled, she hoped they really liked this news.

It was almost comical when all three frowned in concern, Sharon opened her mouth to speak but decided to show it instead. She got up from her chair and took a deep breath, as she was wearing a big dress, her belly wasn't perceptive. However, as soon as she slid her hands down the dress, the belly began to take shape and holding the dress in the lower abdomen was impossible to hide the pregnancy.

For two seconds none of them said anything, all three of them shocked, but then Emily was the first to react:

"OH MY GOD".

"BUT WHAT...?" Rick yelled from his screen, he had gotten up and was running his hands through his hair still shocked.

"WHAT THE HELL-". Nicole spoke, but she had a big smile.

"Mom, is this serious? This isn't some kind of joke, is it?" Emily questioned and broke into a big smile. "Oh my God, you're pregnant". The ballerina then got up from her chair and started jumping in what looked like happiness.

"I can't believe I'm going to have another brother. Please say that will be a brother, I need one more boy in this club".

"Hey, don't even start, Rick. It's going to be a girl". Nicole spoke from her screen and laughed out loud. "Congratulations, Dad. Congratulations Sharon. Oh my God, I'm so happy".

Sharon and Andy just watched in amazement at their children's reactions, the three of them looked amazed and still freaked out at the news. The Lieutenant just nodded in acknowledgment of the congratulations and pulled Sharon to his side; kissing her temple, Andy sighed happily and placed his hand next to hers on her stomach, both of them enjoying this precious moment.


Andy checked his watch, but it's barely been thirty minutes since he'd been kicked out of Sharon's room. He knew that her pregnancy was risky, mainly because they discovered a few days ago that she was at risk of having preeclampsia, the obstetrician and the surgeon decided that a cesarean would be safer. He and Sharon decided that was okay with that, as long as the baby was born well and Sharon was able to get through the surgery without any problems.

As these worries raced through his mind, he barely registered the arrival of his children and Rick. Nicole was the first to run to him and hug him:

"Hey dad, how are you?"

"I am fine". Andy spoke and sighed a little more relieved. "Are you okay? Did Emily give you any news?"

"She's already on the flight and arrives in 4 hours". Rick spoke and went to the Lieutenant and hugged him too.

Andy had been pleasantly surprised when the young man had hugged him for the first time, but with the little acquaintance they'd had in the last few months, it was a normal thing now.

The Lieutenant saw his son there too, but Charles was still very quiet in Andy's presence, and he knew he had Sandra's influence on that.

"Hello, dad". The young man now spoke from Nicole's side. "I hope you don't mind that I'm here".

"No way". Andy smiled. "I'm really glad you're here".

The young man smiled and Rick patted the boy on the back with a big smile, Andy thought he heard an 'I told you' and they both seemed happy with their discovered friendship.

"Andy". Rick turned to the lieutenant. "Did mom tell grandma we're here?"

The Lieutenant stared at the young man and then took a deep breath, it was clear they were going to forget someone, and from Rick's amused snort he understood the expression of despair Andy felt.

"I do this". The young man spoke. "Nick, call your aunt, I'm sure Andy hasn't called her either".

Nicole shook her head and went to do just that, at least they wouldn't be as useless as they thought. However, Andy tried to pull himself together, and smiled a little as he recalled the day they told their families that Sharon was pregnant.


2 months ago...

Andy came into the house with a big bag from the local market, after a week of being involved in a case neither of them remembered to do the groceries and he had to do it this Saturday morning because Sharon couldn't stand being on her feet for long.

However, he returned to find Sharon pacing back and forth barefoot, one hand on her back and the other on her lower belly. Andy felt himself falling in love with her even more.

"Hey, what happened?" He questioned and took the food to the kitchen.

"Nothing yet, but it will happen soon".

"What do you mean?" He asked a little worried.

"I forgot to tell my mom that we're getting married and that I'm pregnant." Sharon spoke a little terrified, but it was the little pout she made that had him grinning like an idiot.

"Come on, Ronnie, this can't be that bad". He spoke and led her to the couch, he then picked up the phone and handed it to her.

Settling down beside him, Sharon took a deep breath with some courage. Making the call, she left it on speakerphone so she would be more comfortable moving her hands and trying not to get so nervous. After the third ring her mother's voice reached her ears:

"Hello, Sharon?"

"Hi Mom". She spoke with a small smile, even though her mother didn't see him. "How are you?"

"I'm fine, my dear. And you? How are you, how have you been?"

"Things are better, I just called because I want to tell you some news". She spoke a little uncertainly.

Nora was a very perceptive woman and immediately realized that her daughter was hiding something and this worried her. But she tried to stay calm, she didn't know the news would be as shocking as what happened almost a year ago.

"Oh okay". Nora spoke softly, but the two women were interrupted when a deeper voice appeared.

"I told that silly boy he shouldn't go that way, now the jeep is stuck". Sharon tried but couldn't contain her small giggle when she heard her father's voice. Richard O'Dwyer, former judge and current farmer, has never lost his rough edge.

"For God's sake, Richard. Keep it down, I'm on the phone". Her mother grumbled. "Sorry, honey, your father lost his mind".

"Hey... don't slander me". He grunted.

"Sharon, dear, your father spends every morning riding his horse. He has labyrinthitis, my God, he could fall at any moment". Nora was on the phone, but it was very clear that she was talking to her husband.

Andy found everything here hilarious so he just huffed in amusement and kissed Sharon's cheek and pulled her even closer to his arms.

"I'm safe, woman, Ben is always around".

"He's a child, how can he help, Richard? How can he pick you up if you fall?"

"He knows how to run and I won't fall."

"MOM!" Sharon called and rolled her eyes.

"Oh... sorry my dear, it's just that your father is impossible. But tell me, what do you want to tell me?" Nora seemed to have her attention on Sharon again.

"Put it on speakerphone, I want Dad to hear it too".

"Sharon, my little doll, how are you?" Richard spoke and the Captain felt her cheeks pink with embarrassment. But Andy's chuckle and the kiss on her temple relaxed her, especially as he began caressing her belly.

"I'm fine, Dad. I want to tell you some news".

"Great, now say it at once before your mom starts talking again". The man spoke, sounding serious, but he burst out laughing when the woman cursed him. Sharon just shook her head before speaking cautiously.

"I'm getting married". She spoke and took Andy's hand that rested on her belly.

"What?" Nora's voice was a little uncertain and a lot soberer than before. "Darling, is this... are you sure?"

"Of course, I do, Mom". She spoke with a smile. "Do you remember Andy?"

"The good-looking Lieutenant?"

"Mommy!" Sharon spoke up and had to laugh at that, it was clear her mother would embarrass her, even if she didn't know Andy was listening too.

"What? You said that yourself".

"But he didn't know".

"Oh... are we on speakerphone?"

"Yes". Sharon whispered and Richard let out another laugh.

"You don't need to be ashamed, darling. I'm sure he's delighted".

"You have no idea". Andy spoke up and that made his parents euphoric. The next few minutes were just for introductions and all the in-law jokes her father could think of.

However, Sharon was happy to see how happy and comfortable Andy was with her parents, and just hearing this interaction between them made her satisfied and happy too, all the more reason she could marry him.

"Mom, dad". She called once more and hoped their attention was on her. "I'm Pregnant".

It felt like a bombshell and neither of them spoke for a second. Then it was possible to hear someone take a deep breath.

"I didn't expect that". Nora commented. "But you're well? The baby is good?"

"Yes, Mom, we're fine".

"Do you think you are ready for this, my daughter? Even after what happened?"

"I've never been so sure".

"Fine, as long as you're happy. Now tell me, how old are you?" When Sharon spoke, a big lecture ensued from both parents and the Captain tried to soften the blow, but Andy watched their dynamic with amusement. The O'Dwyers are endearing.

"I will only forgive you if you let me tell your brothers". Nora spoke with amusement. "It's going to be really funny to see their faces when they find out you're pregnant".

"I don't even want to know how you know how to record videos". Sharon huffed with a laugh.

"Rick taught". The older Richard spoke.

"And of course, it was my son". She said and looked at Andy, he had a big smile on his face. "Send me the videos. Now I have to go. Love you".

"We love you too, little doll. Send a photo when the child is born". The older man spoke.

"Ok, I'll talk to you later".

With the phone, off she practically melted with relief, she expected a lot more screams for taking so long to tell, but her parents were amazing.

"Are you sure you want to join this family?" Sharon asked.

"I'm looking forward to it, actually. Your parents are wonderful people". Andy commented and kissed her lips softly. "I'm going to call my sister, I ended up forgetting about her too. Maybe you'll change your mind when you hear from my family".

The first call went to the mailbox and Andy sighed, he tried one more time and was answered on the second ring.

"Andrew better be something important, I don't have much time today. Your niece keeps pestering me about some stupid band she needs a ticket and Mateo wants to drive me crazy".

"Alright, if you want things fast: here you go. I'm getting married and she's pregnant".

"Andrew Flynn, if you got one of those blonde, brainless girls pregnant I'm going to go down to LA and finish you".

"I'm going to marry Sharon, you crazy". He spoke a little annoyed, he had told her months ago that he was dating Sharon.

"Oh..."

After that it was much easier to tell him everything that had happened to him in the last few months and how things were getting better. And while he was talking on the phone, Sharon fell asleep in his arms with a smile on her face.


Andy sat next to Provenza again and tried to calm down, he couldn't let his pressure get the better of him like it had before. It was true that he changed all his habits and his cardiologist was pleased with his improvement, he did not intend to change this state.

The scare he gave Sharon, because of his heart attack almost gave him another attack, but it wasn't his fault that his heart suddenly failed, he still remembered how Sharon and the team had rescued him that day.

1 month before...

Sharon and Andy finally had time to go looking for baby items, the furniture was ready, crib and closets were organized thanks to the team. Julio and Buzz offered to assemble the furniture, Provenza and Tao wanted to help and Fritz was happy to join them. So Sharon and Andy had their house full the following Saturday with the entire team and Brenda's family in attendance. That was a fun afternoon.

Now, they needed to buy clothes and diapers and all that stuff, both officers were confused and delighted with all the items. Luckily, the saleswoman was kind and excited to help, according to her, they were the most charming couple that had walked into the store in months. And Sharon tried not to blush at the compliment.

"Look at this, Andy". The Captain spoke with bright eyes, she was holding a small light green jumpsuit, so tiny that Andy smiled too. "Let's take".

"Ronnie, if you put anything else in the cart you run the risk of it exploding".

"You're no fun". She grunted and rolled her eyes. "What time do you need to be at the police station?"

The Lieutenant looked at his watch and saw that it was still early so he didn't worry too much, Brenda had been cutting back on his work since Sharon went on maternity leave.

"In two hours, we can finish here and have a coffee". He said and kissed her softly on the lips. They both tried to ignore the chuckle from the saleswoman who was still there.

Quickly they paid the bills and went to the food court, they found a table and Andy went to order. While she was gone Sharon felt fulfilled, she was exhausted in fact, now almost nine months old any exertion drained her energy and her obstetrician said that even though she hadn't put on much weight, the baby was big and she blamed Andy for that.

And she was so lost in thought that she didn't notice the approach of Jack, her ex. The man looked shocked by what he saw, he couldn't believe that this was his ex-wife:

"Sharon?" He asked and she jumped a little at the abrupt interruption.

"Jack?" She looked at him between fear and irritation. "What you want?"

"Nothing, just- I wasn't sure it was you". He spoke uncertainly. "You're pregnant". Sarcasm came into his mouth, but Sharon didn't speak, Jack wasn't worth it.

As they stared at each other, Sharon broke first, with a roll of her eyes she resolved to deliver this rather obvious piece of information.

"Yes, Jack. I'm clearly pregnant".

"Is it from- Windsor?"

"I suggest you redo your accounts". She said in disgust.

"But-".

"Ronnie, is everything okay?" Andy's voice was soft, but he had an almost murderous eye in Jack's direction.

"Yes, Jack was on his way out". She said, but the wicked smile graced the lawyer's mouth.

"Andy Flynn, so you were the one that rolled?"

"What do you want Jack? Haven't you pissed us off enough already?"

"I'm just being a good friend. Like old times".

"We are not friends, we never were. Now get lost".

"Well... if you want to take on a child that isn't yours, that's your problem". The lawyer spoke with great insinuation. He expected to see a reaction, and he did when Andy took a menacing step toward him.

"What do you mean?" Lieutenant nearly growled and Sharon took his hand as he tried to get closer to the other man. "Stop being an idiot, Jackson and do the math. And I suggest you leave before I call some security".

"Oh, for God's sake, Andy of course Sharon-".

"Okay, that's enough." Sharon spoke and stood up. "I don't need to hear your bitterness, Jackson. Since you're desperate for information I'll give it to you. Yes, I'm pregnant and it's Andy's, we're getting married and we're going to be happy. No, you don't have a word on this, we're not together anymore. And another thing, it's not my fault you lost your job and nobody wants to hire you".

The surprise on his face made her triumphant, she was tired of being the lawyer's target, he always used her to make himself feel better, but not this time.

"Yes, Jackson, people talk. You should know this. Now leave us alone".

Jack opened his mouth to defend himself, but Andy came face to face with him and spoke low and angrily.

"Go away".

Knowing he was getting a lot more attention than he wanted to, Jack walked away, huffing in rage. Andy, however, rushed to Sharon's side, he guided her back to the chair.

"Hey, are you okay?"

"I'm great, I needed to tell Jack that. He deserved to hear that a long time ago".

"God..." He spoke with a smile. "I love you, you know?" He said and kissed her forehead. "Let's get some coffee and I'll drop you home, I need a case before I find a way to kill Jack".

Sharon just smiled and the two continued talking and smiling, both happy to have one more moment together. Sharon ignored the pain in her feet from exhaustion and Andy pushed the dull ache in his arm as he had been doing for two days.

As the day passed, Sharon felt bored and decided to go down to the police station and get some food for the team, they had a big case and she was feeling a bit useless so with that decision made she headed downtown.

As soon as she arrived everyone huddled together looking for something to eat, they already looked exhausted and it was perceptive that they would spend the night there. It was in the midst of laughter that it all happened, Andy got up and staggered a little:

"Andy, are you okay?" Sharon asked worriedly.

Provenza and Brenda noticed it too and managed to get to the Lieutenant, but not fast enough to catch him as he fell holding his chest and grimacing in pain. Sharon tried to be rational, asked Julio to call 911 and tried to contain her emotions, but it was difficult when her hormones and feelings were all over the place. It didn't take long for them to be taken to the hospital.

Nicole arrived a few hours later and hugged Sharon while the rest of the team tried to find out what really happened. When one of the doctors finally showed up, the Captain couldn't hold back tears when she heard that Andy had suffered a heart attack.

It was a rough night and it was the same day that they found out that her blood pressure was high too, but the main reason was because of the emotion of the day, so her obstetrician just left it as an observation and that she would confirm in further appointments.

As the day began to dawn Sharon was allowed into Andy's room, he was sleeping but his vitals looked good, that's what the nurse said and she felt calmer after that.

Sharon then pulled the chair close to the bed and took his hand, she breathed a sigh of relief at the feeling that he was warm and alive. It didn't take long for her to feel his hand moving and his eyes opening.

"Good morning my dear". She whispered as he stared at her a little confused.

"Hey". he whispered. "What happened?"

"You scared us, but it's okay now". Sharon spoke and kissed his hand.

Andy smiled a little and went back to sleep, Sharon just sighed a little calmer seeing that he would be fine. She just hoped they didn't have any more surprises.


Nicole watched with some amusement as her father became anxious about the birth of another child, and unlike what her mother said, she wasn't feeling neglected, on the contrary, watching this showed how much her father was changed and committed to Sharon and they kid.

From a distance she saw a nurse come to him, they talked briefly and her father was led to the emergency doors. Curious, Nicole went to Lieutenant Provenza.

"What happened?"

"Sharon was asking for him". The older Lieutenant spoke with a small smile. "It was easier for him to break down here than there with her".

Nicole smiled too, but that worried her. Her father had had a heart attack last month and going through such an emotional experience could strain his heart, but she agreed with Provenza, it was much easier for him to lose control away from Sharon.

Meanwhile, Andy was taken to the operating room, he was instructed to put on the blue suit and guided into the room, Sharon was lying down and as soon as he entered, she stared at him with bright eyes.

"My love". He whispered and almost ran to her side. He took her hand and kissed it quickly. "How are you?"

"No pain". She said with a smile. "And you?"

"I was worried, but now I'm better".

"Great, because I wanted you here". She said, but something in her voice made Andy alert. "I'm scared". Her whisper was barely heard.

"Hey..." He whispered and kissed her forehead and moved even closer to her, leaving their faces an inch apart. "Ronnie, you're going to be fine, our baby is going to be fine".

"But what if it doesn't?" She asked a little more terrified.

"We'll deal with this as usual". He spoke and kissed her gently. "Me and you against the world, remember?" He spoke and laced his fingers with hers. "I know you're scared and after what happened to me it's overwhelmed you, but you're going to be able to bring our baby into the world and you're going to be fine. The three of us will be fine".

Sharon stated and took a deep breath, she didn't want to feel so vulnerable, but the emotions of the last few months finally caught up with her. But she had to be strong now, and with Andy here with her, the Captain knew she could get through this.

"Okay, let's bring this baby into the world". The obstetrician spoke with a big smile.

There was a screen between the doctor and the anxious parents, so Andy decided to distract Sharon by telling her who was in the waiting room and who was waiting for news. However, he was aware of everything that was happening around him, he needed to know if everything was going well with the baby.

Then suddenly they heard it: a loud, demanding cry, and not at all happy to be out in a cold environment. Sharon, when she heard, looked at Andy and her eyes filled with tears and he couldn't contain his own joy and kissed her.

"You've made it, my dear". He whispered.

"It's a boy, Sharon and Andy". The obstetrician spoke over the loud crying. "And he has big lungs". This made Andy laugh and try to see where his son was, but a nurse was already coming with the baby for the two of them to take a look.

As soon as the baby was gently placed close to Sharon's face, the crying began to subside, the nurse looked at Andy and smiled offering the baby to him and the Lieutenant immediately went to support his son, even though his hands were shaking.

"Hey, big boy". His voice was choked and deeper than usual, but it felt like the right thing to do. The little one just shut up and sighed, looking satisfied. "That's right, son. Mom and Dad are here, nothing to worry about".

Sharon just smiled and let the tears flow as she saw Andy's passionate gaze and pride on the baby, and her thinking she couldn't fall in love with the Lieutenant more.

They barely noticed that one of the nurses had a camera in hand - courtesy of Nicole and Buzz - and recorded the entire moment. But too soon for their liking, the baby was taken away for the necessary tests.

After that things went much smoother, doctors continued the surgery to make sure Sharon was ok and the baby was placed in the father's arms to be introduced to the family, but quickly as he needed to go to the nursery.

Andy was undecided about whether to do this or stay with Sharon, but the Captain anticipated that and ordered him to introduce the brothers and godfather to the baby. With one last kiss on her forehead, the Lieutenant picked up his precious cargo and headed for the waiting room.

As he walked through the doors, everyone stood up with a big smile on their faces and approached. The closest were the three siblings, all speechless and emotional.

"Hey little one". Nicole said caressed his tiny cheek.

"Guys, I want you to meet Otto Louie Flynn". He said and smiled at Provenza who was staring at him in surprise and if Andy looked closely he would see the tears forming in the grumpy Lieutenant's eyes.

As everyone cooed over his son and Andy realized that this was the happiest moment of his life.


Sharon and Otto were released from the hospital after three days, their assessments were great and they were able to go home. Andy was more than happy to have his fiancée and son at home, he would have a few days off and that would do to accommodate Sharon and the baby.

"Are you okay?" The Lieutenant asked again.

"I'm fine, honey". She spoke with a tired smile. It was perhaps the tenth time he'd asked the question and she just didn't stop him because she was exhausted.

But as soon as they opened the door, she was greeted by a delicious smell of lasagna and the greeting of her children and stepchildren. All fours.

"Welcome home, Mom". Emily almost screamed, but Rick nudged her and pointed at the car seat.

"Oh... what a wonderful surprise". She said and her smile got even bigger. "I didn't know you would stay here, my dears, I know you have commitments".

"And miss the arrival of my little brother? Never". Nicole spoke up and joined Emily in cooing to the baby. "Look at this, he's barely born and he's already a Dodgers".

That made Sharon roll her eyes, but she didn't care, Andy spent the entire pregnancy muttering that he was going to dress the baby up in everything he could of the Dodgers. And well, Otto was wearing a blue team jumpsuit that Sharon had bought as soon as she found out she was pregnant, and of course, the little blue beanie given to him by godfather Provenza.

"Oh my God, he's so cute". Emily spoke and almost cried.

"And I thought Otto was going to join the men's club. Do you want to bet that he will be the darling of the girls?" Rick spoke with an eye roll.

"I will not lose my money". Charles snorted. "Now let's eat before it gets cold, I believe Sharon wants to rest".

"You have no idea". She whispered and looped an arm through his. Charles was surprised by the contact, he didn't expect to be so well received, unfortunately he wasted a lot of time listening to his mother's barbs and avoiding his father, but now he would be more present in their lives.

The next few weeks Sharon had to remember how to take care of a newborn, but was easy when she'd already done it twice, the difference being that she now had a partner who loved and supported her. And how did she know that? From Andy's delighted look and pride when she just nursed Otto. She never thought she could be looked at with such admiration just for a small act like that.

Most importantly, she was happier than she'd been in a long time, even before the assault she hadn't exactly been happy. Her life changed dramatically, she went from the darkness of her depression to the bright light of being loved and loving.

"I love you". She whispered and looked at him with green eyes shining with love.

"I love you too, Ronnie". He spoke and kissed her temple as she was lying on his chest. Otto seemed to sense the loving mood of his parents and opened his eyes, the same chocolate eyes as his father.


As soon as Otto was six months old, Andy and Sharon invited their families and the team over for a little celebration. Nicole got a beach house with a friend, big enough for all of them; the priest agreed to conduct the ceremony and Sharon was looking forward to being Mrs. Flynn.

This time she didn't want anything fancy. Because it was on the beach, Sharon wore an ankle-length, cream-colored, simple dress; a bit of lace on the bodice and a light organza skirt with tiny lace flowers. The Captain chose to go barefoot as did Andy, both of them too happy to worry too much. The Lieutenant wasn't very dressed up either, he opted for a button-down shirt that was left with two buttons open and white pants tucked at his ankles.

Sharon let Emily and Nicole take care of everything, including her hair and makeup. Nicole made just two strands and intertwined the back of her head and all the ornament was made with small white flowers, the rest of her hair was loose and with curls. Emily thought light and simple makeup was enough. Both were right.

The ceremony was done quickly, the priest was succinct and the time for the vows arrived, the Captain was a little unsure, she had so much to say, but the words stuck in her throat. Andy just waited and held her hands more tightly in his. Sharon even opened her mouth, but nothing came out, so she knew she only needed two words.

"Thank you, Andy".

The Lieutenant didn't need to ask for explanations, he knew the reason for the thanks. It was everything they had been through, from that fateful call all those months ago to that moment where they were pledging before God and men to follow in faithfulness and love for the rest of their lives.

"I would do it all over again". He spoke fondly and kissed her hands.

The rest they didn't listen, too focused on staring at each other, but as soon as the kiss was allowed Andy pulled her by the waist and kissed her passionately.

The rest of the party was wonderful, only her loyal friends and family were present, not much of a mess or fake smile. Just sharing laughs and old stories.

Rick turned on some loud music and asked the couple to dance the bride and groom waltz, and Andy was happy to pull his wife into the middle of the makeshift dance floor. The music was slow and the two hugged and swayed gently to the beat, yet they weren't together for more than two minutes before Otto started crying and babbling angrily, his little hands making grabbing gestures in Sharon and Andy's direction.

Snorting in amusement the Lieutenant went to his son and picked him up, but he returned to the same position as before, but now with one arm firmly around Sharon's waist and the other holding the baby. Sharon smiled at her son who was now quiet and lying comfortably on his father's chest. Knowing she wouldn't have a fuller peace than this, Sharon snuggled into Andy's shoulder and closed her eyes. If this was the light after the dark, Sharon was glad she'd run in that direction.

The End