Chapter 3: The Kids

Elliot tries to speak, but the words won't come out. He looks over at his five children then down at the concrete beneath his feet. The dam is about to break sending tears streaming down his face, his stomach is in knots, and his head is pounding. Still, Elliot takes a deep breath forcing the anguish back down so he can attempt to explain this mess to his children. He owes them the truth at least.

"Uh kids I …"

A car door closes behind Elliot. He turns and much to his surprise, Olivia has just emerged from a taxi and is walking up the front walk towards him. Dickie and the rest of his siblings follow their father's gaze towards Olivia quietly heading towards them all. Elliot goes to her immediately, taking one of her hands in his. Softly he traces his other hand across her cheek then places it on her abdomen. Olivia watches his actions then draws her eyes upward catching his. Elliot tries to look away, but his blue eyes are captured by her brown ones. Together they stand and stare at each other quietly. The Stabler children all look at each other knowingly.

"You guys finally got together!" Lizzie says first.

"Not exactly guys" Elliot answers his youngest daughter.

"Oh come on Dad! You knocked her up!"

"Kathleen Stabler!"

"Sorry Dad but I'm just stating the obvious" Kathleen explains.

"Yeah Dad, it's not like it wasn't going to happen eventually" Maureen adds.

Elliot and Olivia look at each other, both a bit shocked at the kids' reaction. They don't seem mad at them at all.

"Are you guys mad at us? We didn't mean to hurt you guys at all" Olivia says nervously.

The children all look at each other then shake their heads no simultaneously.

"No, we were afraid Dad hooked up with Dani and Mom and you found out" Maureen answers for the group.

"Beck?" Olivia asks surprised.

"Yeah, what made you guys come to that conclusion?" Elliot asks his kids.

"It just seemed like you and Liv were never gonna get together. Plus we all know Dani liked you Dad" Maureen continues.

"Okay but why would Liv and I get together at all? There is your mother remember?" Elliot says.

"Dad, we all knew that after you and Mom split the first time it was so over. Plus you and Liv belong together" Kathleen answers for her sister.

"Liv, can you believe this? It's crazy!"

"No El, I'm shocked, relieved, and happy all at the same time."

"What now Liv?"

"Now we'd better go face Cragen El."

"Yeah, let's get it over with Liv."

TBC