Hi everyone. Sorry for not getting an update to you all last week, I know some of you look forward to that every Thursday, so I'm sorry I wasn't able to get one posted for you all. I just needed some extra time to get this one done, I hope you understand.
And I do hope you all enjoy this one, there is a little M-rated section, which I know some of you have been wanting. But this is just a sweet little Dawsey chapter for you all, so I hope you enjoy it.
Thank you for reading, I hope you all are doing well and staying safe.
FIFTY FOUR
Casey pulled his truck up to the curb across from the bar, the man putting it in park before looking towards the familiar building, Matt seeing people coming and going from the lively establishment as the bar lights helped illuminate the dark Chicago night. Pulling the keys from the ignition, Casey spared a quick glance to the time on the dashboard, the tired firefighter blowing out a heavy breath as he saw it was just a little after ten. It wasn't too late, in fact Matt knew the second he walked inside, the night would just be getting started, but it was later than he would've liked to get here, Casey knowing Gabby had been here for a few hours now.
When they got off shift this morning, the couple knew they'd be going their separate ways for most of the day; Gabby having gone off to run a few errands with her mom, while Matt got some rest before a construction job he had just after lunch, the two planning to meet back up for dinner before Gabby had to come work at Molly's. But unfortunately, those plans had to be altered a bit when Matt's job that he thought would be a quick, couple hour task, turned into an all day event, Casey not finishing up his job until about an hour ago. Then after a quick trip home to shower off all the dust and dirt, he was getting here much later than he originally told Gabby during one of his few texts apologizing for their plans getting messed up. But he was here now, and despite the fact she'd be working all evening, he was looking forward to having a nice night out with his girl and their friends.
Pushing his door open, Casey slid down from the truck, the man checking to make sure he had his phone and his wallet before he locked up the vehicle, Matt looking both ways before he jogged across the pretty quiet street. Within moments he was at the door, Matt stepping out of the way as a few people left the bar before he slipped inside, his eyes bouncing around the busy room until he found who he was looking for.
She was standing behind the bar, a wide smile on her face as she chatted away with Herrmann, Shay beside her as they all three waited for any customers who needed their assistance. From his position by the door, he could see Severide, Cruz, and Otis sitting across from them, the air seemingly light around them as the friends enjoyed their time together. And it was a sight that Casey loved to see.
It had been a little over a month since Walker's sentencing, and in that time, things had pretty much gone back to normal around the house- at least where Gabby was concerned. The pitiful looks, the worried stares, those had all stopped. The entire ordeal with Bryan, it wasn't something that was discussed anymore, and it hadn't been for a couple of weeks. Aside from Herrmann, or Severide, occasionally checking in with him to make sure everything was alright, no one talked about it. For Gabby's sake, everyone had moved on, at least as much as they were going to, and everyone was just treating her like before. Like she was just Dawson. And that was something he knew Gabby was beyond grateful for.
Since news of her abuse broke to the house, Matt knew that all she wanted was for things to be back to normal, and thankfully, over the last few weeks they had been. While it wasn't something any of them could forget, or pretend hadn't happened, they had stopped dwelling on it, and that alone had helped Gabby tremendously in moving past all this.
As he stepped further into the bar, Matt couldn't stop his smile from widening when he heard her laugh, his eyes finding her bright smile immediately, the sight filling his chest with an indescribable warmth.
She was happy; she was genuinely happy right now, and that was all he wanted for her.
Though the last month was filled with some ups and downs, overall he knew she was doing better. She'd accepted what happened to her, and was moving on with her life, with their life together. She was okay, and in the few moments she hadn't been, Matt was right there with her. But those moments had been few and far between, especially lately.
And if the last few weeks had shown him anything, it was just how strong and resilient his girl was, and he was sure he'd never been more proud.
As he walked closer to the woman he was here to see, the blonde beside her caught sight of him first, Shay shooting him a soft smile before nudging Gabby's arm, the brunette looking to her friend before Shay nodded towards him. Gabby's head turned to him, the two locking eyes almost immediately as he continued closer down the bar, her warm smile widening even more as he came to stop beside Severide.
"Hey baby." She greeted happily, everyone turning towards Matt as she finished speaking, the man earning a few more hellos from the group.
"Hey guys." He responded, his eyes quickly moving back to his girlfriend as she stepped around Herrmann, Gabby leaning up over the bar towards him, Matt quickly understanding what she was wanting as he mimicked her actions, the two meeting for a chaste kiss before pulling back. "Sorry I missed dinner."
"It's okay, Shay came over and ate your food, so I had some company." She replied with a laugh, Matt releasing a soft chuckle before glancing towards their friend, the blonde shrugging with a grin as she took a step closer.
"It was delicious, shame you missed it." Shay told him, Matt shaking his head before looking back towards his girlfriend, finding her deep brown eyes still on him, the soft grin resting across her face causing his heart rate to quicken in his chest.
"Well, at least it didn't go to waste." He responded, his smile matching Gabby's.
"It sure didn't." Shay cut in, Matt shooting her an amused look before looking back to Dawson.
"How'd your job go?" She asked, her palms resting against the edge of the bar as she leaned her body weight against the counter, Matt huffing out a heavy breath before replying.
"It was… long. Very long." He told her, Gabby's nose scrunching up slightly as she took in his tired features. "But I got everything done, so I won't have to worry about going back tomorrow."
Gabby gave him a slow nod, her eyes continuing to run over his face as she saw his clear exhaustion. She knew he was tired before he even went to work today, Gabby well aware of the long shift they'd all had yesterday, as well as truck being out most of the night at a house fire. Then with him being put to work all day as well, she could tell just by one look at him that all he wanted was some sleep.
"I'm glad… You don't have to hang around too long, if you don't want to." She told him, Matt's head tilting to the side slightly. "You look like you could fall asleep right this second, you don't need to stay just for me… Why don't you head home? Get some rest."
"Nah, I'm good." He replied almost instantly, Matt standing up a little bit straighter as he stretched out his back. Though he certainly wouldn't mind getting some sleep right now, he had no plans to leave before Gabby did, considering she was closing up tonight. He knew she'd be fine, and that she could handle herself, but he always felt better being with her while she was closing up the bar, Matt seeing for himself that sometimes some of their newer patrons were a little rowdier when it was time to end the night. And since neither of them had any plans for tomorrow until the evening, there was nothing stopping them from sleeping in. "I'm happy to stay."
Gabby nodding softly at his words, the smile reappearing on her lips as they locked eyes once more, the two focusing on nothing but the other for a few long seconds, their eye contact causing heat to flood to her cheeks before the sound of Kelly clearing his throat snapped them from their moment.
"You two wanna take this to the back room?" Severide questioned, his words earning immediate laughs from the first responders around them, Gabby ducking her head slightly as Matt turned to look at him, the truck Lieutenant slapping him lightly against the back of his head. "What? I'm sorry, but you two just saw each other this morning, it's not like it's been days." He continued, his words earning him another smack to his head as Gabby chuckled softly. "All I'm saying is if you're gonna continue, maybe take it to the back."
"Don't give me any ideas." Gabby murmured under her breath, Matt's tongue poking out between his teeth as he bit back a laugh, her words causing Severide to grimace before he shook his head. "What? You started it." She mocked him, their teasing causing the group to laugh before Gabby returned her attention back to her boyfriend. "So, can I get you a drink?"
"Just water for now." He replied, Gabby giving him a nod before moving to get him a glass.
As the night continued on, the friends were all dispersed throughout the bar, Otis and Cruz having moved to a table in the back, while Severide and Matt had mostly stayed put at the bar, Casey wanting to be close to his girl while she worked, Gabby spending what time she could with him, aside from when customers needed attention, or Herrmann and Shay need her for something.
Things began to wind down when it got close to closing time, most of the customers having left a while ago, as well as Cruz and Otis having called it quits around midnight. Severide had left with a blonde shortly after their other friends had gone, while Shay had done the exact same thing, the paramedic checking with her friend that it was fine she ducked out early before she went home with the woman. And by the time it was close to the end of the night, Gabby and Herrmann were the only two left working, Matt having stayed in his spot as the two escorted a rather loud bunch of men outside, Herrmann locking the door as soon as they were out.
Huffing out a breath, the older man walked with Gabby back towards the bar, the three the only ones left in the room as Matt sipped on his second glass of water.
"Alright kid, I'm gonna head out." Herrmann spoke as Gabby came to stand beside Matt, her hand resting on his shoulder. "You good here?"
"Yeah, we're good." She assured him, Matt pushing himself up from his seat to begin putting the stools up as Herrmann walked to the front door, Gabby following him so she could lock up behind him.
"Night Herrmann." Matt called, the older man nodding as he stood in the doorway.
"Goodnight Lieutenant, Dawson." He told them, Gabby flashing him a smile before he stepped outside, Casey continuing the tedious process of putting all the chairs up while Gabby locked the front door, leaving them alone in the bar.
Wordlessly, the two continued to work, Gabby running her hand along his back as she passed him to head back to the stockroom, Dawson locking up the door and grabbing her things before joining him back out in the bar, seeing he'd nearly completed his task.
"Thank you for staying." Her soft voice filled the otherwise silent room, Matt turning to look at her as she continued walking towards him, a soft smile forming over his face as he put the last stool upside down on the table.
"Of course… Had to make up for missing dinner somehow." He added lightly, Gabby scoffing as she shook her head, the woman placing her purse down on the table before coming to stand in front of him, her arms circling around his neck as his hands instinctively went to her hips, the position they were in naturally pulling them together as she tilted her head to the side.
"When you told me you were gonna make it up to me, this isn't exactly what I had in mind." She responded, unable to stop the smile growing over her face when she felt him rub his hand along her hip, her words causing him to chuckle softly.
"Oh, well what did you have in mind?" He questioned, Gabby cocking her head to the side as she raised her eyebrows challengingly, Matt instantly recognizing the dark look in her eyes.
Before giving him a response, Gabby closed what little distance there was between them, her lips connecting with his in a heated, desire-filled kiss, Matt instantly reciprocating the action as he tightened the hold he had on her hips. Her palm gripped the back of his neck, keeping him close to her as they fought for dominance, Matt's hand sliding up underneath her shirt, resting along her bare side before moving around to her back, the feeling of his warm skin against hers sending a shiver through her spine. She could feel him smirk against her, Matt clearly noticing the effect his touch had on her, the two separating to take a quick breath, their wanting eyes locked on each other as their chests heaved up and down.
"...I have a few ideas." She spoke in between breaths, Matt not getting a chance to answer her before her lips were back on his, the desperation in her movements nearly sending him stumbling backwards, Matt having to grip the edge of the table in order to keep his balance. But his clear moment of unsteadiness wasn't enough to slow her down, Gabby gripping on his shirt as she pushed him back against the table, her hips pressing into his, pinning him up against the high piece of furniture as his hands roamed her body. She felt his hands slide down her back towards her ass, moving into her back pockets before grabbing a hold of her, the action pushing her forward as they continued their needy movements.
But the couple was pulled apart suddenly by the sound of one of the bar stools crashing to the ground, Matt having accidentally knocked into it when Gabby thrust her hips forward, the sound causing him to jump as they abruptly stepped back. The second she registered his startled state, Gabby burst out into laughter, Matt shaking his head as soft chuckles escaped his own lips, the man running his hand along the back of his neck before he stepped away from her, Casey bending down to pick up the stool as Gabby composed herself.
"You alright, there?" She asked before laughing again, Gabby rubbing her hand over his lower back before he stood back up.
"I'm fine." He replied, shaking his head before he turned back to face her, his eyes immediately finding her swollen lips, the lipstick she'd been wearing all night now smudged across her mouth, before his eyes trailed down towards her chest, taking in her very obvious cleavage peeking out from the low-cut shirt she'd been wearing. Seeing his less than subtle stares, Gabby reached out to grab his jaw, forcing him to look back up at her as a sheepish look covered his face.
"Yeah, we need to get home." He breathed out, another laugh escaping her lips as she dropped her light hold on his face, Matt turning around to grab her bag before nodding towards the door. "You ready?"
She gave him a nod before they headed for the door, Gabby turning off the lights as Matt stepped outside, the warm night inviting as they exited the bar. He kept his attention on the street while Gabby locked up, his hands shoved in his pockets until he felt her slide her arm through his, Matt glancing down to see her standing beside him.
"Let's go home." She told him, Matt nodding with a soft smile before they walked down the steps onto the sidewalk, the couple walking towards Gabby's car that was parked closer than his. When they got to her driver side door, she fished around in her purse for her keys while Matt was leaning up against the back door, the pair following the usual routine for when they were leaving Molly's late at night.
Matt would walk her to her car, keeping a close eye on their surroundings while she got ready to leave, the man always waiting until her car was running and she was locked inside before he went to his own vehicle, and tonight was no different, Matt waiting for the all clear before he jogged across the street to his truck. When he got to his vehicle, he spared a quick glance back at her before getting inside, his truck roaring to life as Gabby waited for him in her parking spot until he was ready to go. And, just as they always did, Matt followed behind Gabby to their destination, Casey always feeling better about her driving in front of him this late at night.
With the minimal late night traffic, they were able to get to Gabby's apartment within minutes, Matt pulling his truck up behind her, the two of them climbing out of their cars and locking them before heading towards her front door, the air around them light as he followed her up the steps.
"So…" She spoke as she slid the key into the lock, Matt raising his eyebrows before she pushed the door open. "Have you decided how you're gonna make it up to me?" She questioned, Matt feeling his mouth go dry as he followed her into her home, Casey making sure to lock up the door behind them as they stood in the entryway.
"Well, I definitely have a few ideas of my own… But I'm interested to hear what you had in mind." He told her, Matt watching her closely as she discarded her belongings on the table, Gabby sliding out of her boots before turning towards him, his girlfriend now a few inches shorter as she stood in front of him. "You seemed to have some good ones back at the bar."
"Oh, I do." She replied, Gabby wasting no time as she reached for the hem of her shirt and pulled it from her body, Matt's gaze immediately moving to her chest as she stood in her dark red lacy bra, the man having fond memories of removing this particular piece of clothing in the past as her shirt fell to the floor with a silent thump. His eyes immediately darkened at the sight of her, his tongue darting out between his teeth to wet his dry lips as she reached towards him, Gabby's hands grabbing ahold of his shirt before she practically ripped it from his body, Matt letting her do whatever she wanted as she dropped it to the ground on top of hers.
Without a word, Gabby slid her finger through one of his belt loops before taking a step backwards, leading him further into the familiar apartment as they slowly made their way to the couch, Gabby dropping her hold on him once he got the hint to follow after her. From his positioning behind her, he could see the way her hips were swaying as she walked, Matt knowing she was doing it on purpose as she was well aware of the effect she had on him, his pants feeling awful snug as they got to her living room.
As they stood in front of the couch, Gabby's back was still to him as her hands moved towards her jeans, the woman beginning to undo the button, but her movements stopped when she felt him press his chest into her, Matt's arm immediately snaking around her waist, his hand resting over hers to keep her from continuing any further.
"That's my job." He growled in her ear, Gabby biting back a satisfied smirk as she felt him press her body back against his, his want for her evident as there was no space in between them.
"Well then get to work… Lieutenant." The last word fell from her lips lightly, Matt's eyes falling closed as the blood in his body rushed south, a deep groan escaping the back of his throat before he decided to follow her advice. Pushing her hands out of the way, Matt brought his other arm around to her front while his lips attached to the skin on her neck, Gabby's head tilting to the side to give him better access, his hands unbuttoning her pants before slowly sliding the zipper down.
She expected him to continue removing her clothes, but he took her by surprise when he suddenly stopped his movements, Matt sliding one hand up her side while his other teased the skin above the waistband of her underwear, Gabby's breaths becoming heavier as she felt him move one finger underneath the material. He continued teasing her for a few seconds, Gabby's eyes falling closed as she rested her head back on his shoulder, the woman letting him do what he pleased as she waited to see what his next move would be.
And he didn't disappoint as Casey moved two fingers underneath her underwear, before slowly letting the rest of his hand disappear under the clothing, Gabby's breath catching in her throat as he gently rubbed over her sensitive skin. His teeth lightly grazed her neck, Matt's hand on her side sliding up to her chest, gripping her over her bra as he continued slowly moving the hand underneath her clothes back and forth, his steady and tantalizing movements pulling low whines from her as she leaned into him.
He continued his slow pace for a few minutes, Casey thoroughly enjoying the sounds he was getting from her as he worked her the way he knew she craved, Matt not doing enough to get her close to the edge, but enough to drive her crazy as they stood in her dim living room.
When he'd spent enough time teasing, he meticulously slid his hand further down, Gabby gasping softly when he slid a lone finger inside of her, the grip he had on her chest tightening as he continued marking the skin on her neck. It felt as if her body was on fire, Matt alighting a feeling in her no one else ever had as he picked up his pace, heavy pants leaving her lips as her legs trembled slightly.
The second he slid a second finger into her, she felt her legs falter again, Matt tightening his grip on her to keep her upright as he gradually increased his speed. His lips stayed latched onto her neck, the moans and whines his movements were pulling from her encouraging him further.
"Matt…" She whimpered, Casey feeling her body tighten around him as he moved his hand faster, Gabby's entire body tensing against him as she fought to keep any semblance of control. But it was a battle she was desperately losing.
Just as she was about to tumble over that edge, Matt pulled back, Gabby groaning in dismay as he slid his hand out from underneath her clothes, his mouth staying locked onto her neck as he held her by her stomach to keep her up, her heavy pants filling his ears as he loosened his hold on her chest.
"That was mean." She whined in between breaths, Matt chuckling against her neck before kissing her skin, the man knowing he'd left his fair share of marks on her. Ones she'd definitely have to cover up as he took a slight step back, his hands moving down towards her sides before he slid her pants and underwear down quickly, Gabby shivering at the rough movement. With her help, the clothes previously covering her bottom half ended up in a pile beside the coffee table, Gabby's eyes falling closed when she felt him press a light kiss to her lower back before he stood up straight, his hands immediately moving to the last piece of clothing keeping her hidden from him. Just as he'd done so often in the past, he expertly unclasped her bra, letting it rest in place as he turned her around to face him, his inviting eyes accompanied by the soft smile on his face causing warmth to pool in her stomach as he slowly reached out to remove the material from her body.
When she was completely bare to him, he tossed the clothing to the ground, his eyes immediately raking over her naked form, taking her in before he slowly met her gaze, Matt finding a shy smile waiting for him as he took a step forward.
"God, I love you." He breathed out, his eyes looking over her once more as her chest filled with warmth, Gabby taking matters into her own hands as she reached for his belt, the woman making quick work of it while Matt kept his hazy gaze focused on her. Within seconds, his pants and boxers were down around his ankles, his breath catching in his throat when she grabbed a hold of him, her fist moving slowly over him before she leaned forward, capturing his lips with hers.
Their movements were sloppy, and filled with desire as she worked him, Matt having a hard time focusing as she'd pick up her pace substantially, before slowing back down, Gabby knowing how much that drove him crazy.
But after what felt like not nearly enough time, she let him go, Matt sucking in a deep breath the second her lips were off his, the man opening his eyes to find her already staring back at him, the wanting smile playing over her lips causing his throat to go try before she lead him back towards the couch, his body collapsing down onto the cushions as she'd pushed him down. Before he was even seated, she was already climbing on top of him, Matt's hands flying to her hips to help guide her to his lap while her hands rested on his shoulders, the position familiar to both of them as her chest brushed against his.
Without prompting, Gabby leaned down to kiss him yet again, her actions desperate as she gripped the tops of his shoulders, Matt's hands running all along her bare skin as they pressed their hips together. While she had him distracted, Gabby's hand running along his chest while their lips moved together heatedly, she slid her free hand down in between them, lifting her hips enough to grab a hold of him. Matt choked on his breath when she gave him a few swift pumps before lining himself up to her entrance, Gabby wasting no time in slowly moving down towards him, Matt sinking into her as his hands gripped her hips tightly.
Soft gasps and moans were coming from both of them as they adjusted to one another, Matt rubbing his hand comfortingly over her hip as she rested flush against his lap, her head lulling to the side as she adjusted to him. He waited for her to make the first move, Matt pressing chaste kisses along her shoulder and neck for a few intimate moments.
And when she was ready, she gently nudged her cheek against his, Matt turning towards her just as she placed her lips on his, Gabby kissing him with a force he hadn't been expecting as her hands moved back to his shoulders, the woman gripping onto him tightly for support before she began moving up and down in his lap. Her pace started slow, both of them building up to that high as they focused on the incredible feeling of being together, but it soon became clear to him that slow and gentle wasn't what she was after. Not when she dug her fingernails into his shoulders, no doubt leaving marks behind, before she picked up her speed, her needy kisses becoming even needier as she bounced up and down.
Their movements were frantic, heavy moans and pants escaping through their kisses as Matt's grip on her hips tightened, the man helping her move at a quick pace that she couldn't quite reach on her own, helping her slam down onto him before lifting her back up. It was rough, and fast, and full of nothing but want, desire, and complete and utter love, the feeling nearly suffocating as they got lost in one another.
The other's names tumbled from their lips as they continued moving together, the near pleading tone to her voice telling Matt she was close as he kept up his rhythmic movements, the man able to feel just how close she was getting as she clenched down around him. And while he knew she was approaching that peak they craved together, he was almost certain it wouldn't be the last time she felt that tonight as he continued on with his reckless pace, Matt doing everything he could to make sure she thoroughly enjoyed their night together.
With their hands intertwined, Gabby and Matt walked up the sidewalk to the familiar front door, the couple unsure of exactly what they'd be getting themselves into tonight as they approached her parent's house, this dinner having been something her mother had planned somewhat last minute. It was just a couple of days ago when Camila called her daughter, saying she wanted to have her and Matt over for dinner, along with Antonio. And while that had been something they'd done a few times since they found out about everything with Walker, usually the couple was given more notice than two days. But they were happy to be here nonetheless, Gabby and Matt both knowing how much these evenings were enjoyed by the entire family.
When they got to the door, Matt lifted his free hand up to knock, the couple hearing some rambunctious shouting going on behind the closed door, Gabby biting back a laugh as she heard her parents talking loudly back and forth through the house, Casey mimicking her look just before the door opened.
"Gabriela! Matthew!" Ramon greeted brightly, the man stepping aside to give them room to come in, but Gabby's eyebrows furrowed when she saw the redness in his eyes. "Come in, come in."
"Everything okay, Papa?" She asked, Gabby dropping Matt's hand before walking inside, Casey following close behind her as Ramon shut the door.
"Everything's fine, mija." He assured him, Gabby's eyes roaming his tired face before she ultimately nodded, the daughter still not entirely believing his story. "Your mother's finishing up dinner, and your brother is taking a call, but everything should be ready soon, make yourselves at home." He told them the same thing he did every time they had dinner, Matt and Gabby sharing a look before nodding, the pair leaving the belongings they didn't need by the door before following her father into the living room. "What would you all like to drink?"
"Wine's fine, dad."
"I'll have a beer, but I can go and get it." Matt replied as Gabby sat down on the couch.
"Oh, no you don't have to, you're our guests."
"It's fine, I wanna say hi to Camila anyway." He continued, Ramon and Gabby both shooting him a soft smile, Matt rubbing his girlfriend's shoulder before he started the familiar path towards the kitchen, leaving Gabby alone with her dad.
"So Gabriela, how are things with you two?" He asked softly, not missing the way her daughter's face lit up at the mere mention of her boyfriend, before Gabby began filling her father in on how everything had been going since their last talk.
In the kitchen, Matt stepped inside the spacious room, seeing Camila's back to him as she worked on the finishing touches for their dinner, the man smiling softly before he stepped towards her, placing a gentle hand on her back.
By the way she tensed slightly, he could tell he'd surprised her a bit, the older woman turning to look at him before a soft smile formed over her face.
"Matthew, hi dear." She greeted warmly, Matt leaning down to press a quick kiss to her cheek before stepping around her towards the fridge.
"Hi Camila." He responded as he reached in to get his beer, the man placing it on the counter before beginning the process of getting Gabby's glass of wine. "It smells absolutely delicious in here."
"Oh, well you're too kind." She replied, wiping her hands on her apron as she turned to look towards him. "How are you doing?"
"I'm doing pretty well… Been keeping busy at the firehouse, and working some construction jobs, but I'm good." He responded, Camila giving him a slow nod before continuing.
"And Gabriela? How are things with you two?"
"We're great." He spoke brightly. "She's been working at Molly's some, but her and I are good."
"Good, that's good to hear." She murmured, Matt hearing a tone in her voice he couldn't quite read, the man turning around completely to look at her as she'd focused her attention back on dinner. Debating whether or not to question it, Casey spared a quick glance towards the doorway, ensuring they were still alone before he stepped closer to her, his movements gaining her attention.
"...Is everything alright?" He questioned, Camila's face remaining blank. "Just… something seems a little off. And Ramon looked upset when we got here." He pressed, watching as the woman pursed her lips together, Camila mimicking his previous actions as she glanced towards the doorway before looking back to him, the woman resting her palms down on the edge of the counter.
"We're fine, honey, it's just that… It's been a day around here." She breathed out, Matt's eyebrows furrowing as he crossed his arms over his chest, Casey giving her his undivided attention. "We didn't want to bring it up around Gabriela, but Antonio, he's… he's been having a hard day. A hard few days, actually." She continued, Matt slowly putting the pieces together in his mind as to what this was about, the firefighter drawing in a deep breath before giving her a knowing look, that being enough for Camila to keep talking. "I know we don't really talk about it with Gabriela… Unless she brings it up, we don't mention him, but Antonio… He's still blaming himself." She explained quietly, Matt's lips turning down into a frown. "For not helping her, for not seeing what was wrong, especially after finding out what all he'd done to her… And Ramon has been feeling the same way, and it all just kind of came to a head today."
Matt took a second to digest what Camila was telling him, the man wearing a sympathetic look as he gave her a nod. "So Antonio is…"
"Not wanting to give his sister any reason to worry." Camila supplemented, Casey nodding once more, the understanding look covering his face causing her to shake her head. "But we're okay dear, just still trying to process all of this. And, as you know, some days are easier than others, but all that really matters here is that Gabriela's okay… And I truly think she is." She added, Matt drawing in a deep breath.
"Yeah, I do, too." He agreed, placing a supportive hand on the woman's shoulder.
"And you're a big reason for that." She continued, Matt's eyebrows furrowing before he shook his head. "Don't try to deny it, Matthew… We noticed how much she changed, or rather how she was finally resembling our daughter again, once you came into her life… We just didn't know the reason she'd been so different was because of what Bryan did to her. And I know I've told you all this before, but I'm telling you again because it's the truth… You've changed our daughter's life. You may have very well saved our daughter's life, and I can never thank you enough for that."
"Camila…"
"I just need you to know how thankful I am that she has you." She continued, Matt knowing he just needed to let her speak. "I know things with the two of you, they started out pretty rocky, but you have always been there for her, Matthew. I know I don't have to worry about her with you, and after Bryan… I can't begin to explain to you how relieving that is. Thank you for taking care of her."
"You don't need to thank me."
"But I do." She replied, their conversation getting cut short by the sound of Gabby calling for Matt, her chipper voice wondering where her drink was, quickly followed by the sound of Ramon chuckling.
"I better get this to her." He spoke with a laugh, Camila nodding understandingly before he grabbed the drinks, the pair separating as he went back out into the living room.
As the night in the Dawson household wore on, the family had moved from the living room to the dining room once dinner was ready, Antonio having appeared shortly after Matt got back with their drinks to round out the group. And since they'd started eating, the conversation around them had been light and easy, Matt making no mention of his conversation with Camila, the man knowing him bringing attention to it right now was bound to make things hard on everyone involved, and that was the last thing he wanted. So he tried to push it from his mind, at least for now, and enjoy this time with Gabby and his family, knowing this was something she looked forward to every time they were all able to get together.
They were about an hour into dinner, the conversation lulling a bit as Antonio had just come back from the bathroom, everyone enjoying the amazing food Camila had cooked up for them as Gabby grabbed her wine glass, the woman taking a quick sip before speaking up.
"So, the big party is here soon, huh?"
Matt's eyebrows furrowed as the words left her lips, the man clearly unsure of what she was talking about, but he didn't question it, knowing by the way she was looking across the table at her parents that she wasn't talking to him. But when he followed her gaze and saw the looks on their faces, he could tell they were both a little surprised by what she had said.
"Oh, well, yes, honey it is." Camila replied first, the woman clearing her throat after she spoke, Gabby nodding with a bright smile before turning back to Matt, seeing his uncertainty.
"Right, I guess I never told you- My grandparents are having a big anniversary party in a few days… 60 years." She explained, Matt's eyebrows raising before he nodded. "Everyone in my family does it, the huge party for every milestone anniversary. And my grandparents decided to do theirs in Chicago this year." She continued, the wide smile on her face causing one to form over his lips as well. "I'm sorry, I know I should've mentioned it sooner…" She spoke regretfully, Matt shaking his head to tell her it was fine. "But we're off shift, and I was hoping you'd come with me. I know last time you were around some of my family, it was… interesting. But I want everyone else to meet you." Gabby finished, her eyes shining back at him as he immediately nodded.
"Of course I'll come." He replied without hesitation, Gabby grinning from ear to ear before she nodded.
"Thank you… Now we'll just have to go and get you a new suit." She added, Matt's eyebrows furrowing slightly as she turned back to her meal.
"Wait, what?" He asked, but wasn't able to get an answer from her when Ramon spoke up.
"Gabriela…" The older man started softly, capturing everyone's attention as Gabby looked to her father. "Your mother and I were talking, and we think it might be best if just the two of us went this year."
Gabby's eyebrows furrowed immediately, her eyes bouncing back and forth between her parents, her gaze quickly shifting to look at her brother before looking back at her dad. "...Why? We all always go." She responded, watching as her dad drew in a deep breath before turning his head towards her mom, the two of them sharing a silent look. "Dad?"
"Your father and I…" Camila started, Gabby's eyes flashing towards her as her mother looked between her and Matt. "We were thinking that with everything going on… With Bryan," She spoke carefully, Gabby's face remaining unchanged as she felt Matt place his hand on her back. "We weren't sure you'd want to go."
"...Do they know?" She asked quickly, her voice soft as she never dropped her eye contact with her mother, Camila sighing softly before nodding.
"They do… Most, if not all of the family knows by now." She replied, Gabby biting down on the inside of her cheek, the youngest Dawson giving little away as to how she was feeling. "Andrea, she… She found out, I'm still not sure the story there," Camila told her, remorse filling his voice as she spoke of her sister. "But you know how things are… Once one person knows, the entire family does, as well."
Gabby gave her another nod, her hands clasped together in her lap as she leaned back against her chair, Matt's hand continuing to rub soothing patterns along her upper back as the topic hung thickly in the air around them, Ramon being the first one to speak up.
"We didn't say anything sooner because we didn't want you to have to deal with all of it… We know you've been working through this, and getting past it, and we didn't want anything to derail that. But we couldn't not tell you, with you wanting to go to this party…" He trailed off, both Ramon and Camila a bit concerned by her lack of response. "We are truly sorry, mija. We know you didn't want people knowing, but that's why we think it's best if you just miss this year… While I'd like to think everyone would know better of it to say anything to you, I know with our family…"
"They will." Gabby finished for him, Ramon nodding sadly before looking towards his wife for a moment.
"We just don't want you put in an uncomfortable, or bad, position, Gabriela." Camila continued, Gabby running her teeth over her bottom lip. "You're doing so well with everything, we don't… we don't want something like this to disrupt that."
The room was quiet for a few long moments, Gabby's leg bouncing up and down nervously underneath the table as her eyes focused on her plate, a hundred different thoughts swarming her head before she just said the first thing that came to mind.
"...It's okay."
Camila and Ramon shared confused looks, the latter glancing towards Casey, seeing he was equally unsure of what she meant.
"Gabriela…"
"I still wanna go." She reiterated, Matt holding his tongue as she talked with her parents, the firefighter glancing towards Antonio, who had been awfully quiet since this conversation first started.
"Are you sure?" Camila questioned, Gabby giving her a slow, strong nod. "Because no one would blame you if you'd rather stay home."
"I know, but I want to." She repeated, Camila drawing in a deep breath before nodding, knowing there was no use arguing about the subject any further, though Gabby continued on anyway. "Plus Matt will be there, and a lot of our family still hasn't met him. I'm sure everyone will want to get to know him."
Gabby glanced towards her boyfriend, Matt immediately giving her a supportive smile before he nodded, Dawson matching his look before looking back to her parents.
"If you want to go, mija, of course we want you there… But just think about it, okay?" Ramon suggested, Gabby opening her mouth to respond but he stopped her. "I know you're fine, but still, just think it over." He told her, the daughter drawing in a deep breath before nodding reluctantly, knowing she wasn't going to change her mind.
"Okay Papa." She told him before the group went back to their dinner, Camila skillfully shifting the topic away from Gabby as they began talking about Eva and Diego.
"You sure you wanna do this?"
Gabby tore her eyes away from scrutinizing herself as she looked behind her through the mirror, finding her boyfriend standing in the doorway to her bedroom, dressed in his suit and tie as he leaned into the door frame.
"Matt…" She spoke warningly, the man holding his hands up in defense before stepping further into the room.
"Sorry, that's the last time I'll ask you." He promised, Gabby shooting him a soft smile through the mirror before continuing to look over her appearance, the tight, red, knee-length dress accentuating all her best features as she turned to look at herself. "But you know I had to check…"
"I know." She replied, seeing him come up behind her, keeping a few feet in between them. "I know going to this party is making you a little anxious, but I'm fine."
"I know you are." He told her, Gabby raising her eyebrows. "I know you're alright, but after everything your parents said, I just- I worry." He admitted, Gabby taking a step closer to him as she brought her hand up to his chest. "But if you say you want to go, I believe you."
His words brought a soft smile to her face, Gabby leaning forward to place a gentle kiss against his lips, Matt smiling against her before reciprocating her actions, his hands moving down to the waist. Their movements were slow and chaste, the two just taking the moment to enjoy one another before Gabby slowly pulled back.
"I love you." She murmured, her heart tightening in her chest when she saw the goofy grin that covered his face, Gabby rubbing her hand over his chest before straightening out his tie, Matt squeezing her hip gently.
"I love you, too… And damn," He blew out a whistle, taking a slight step away as his eyes raked up and down her form, the tight dress that he hadn't seen her in until tonight almost enough to make him want to forget her grandparents anniversary dinner entirely and stay home. "My girl looks good."
Gabby felt heat rise to her cheeks as she took a slight step away from him, shaking her head before she turned back towards the mirror. "Well, I'd hope so, it took me all day to get ready." She replied, finding his eyes on her through the mirror, Matt's gaze clearly focused on her ass before his gaze more upwards, her boyfriend not even pretending to be embarrassed when he realized his stares had been caught. "You don't look so bad yourself." She added, the proud smile on his face growing as she returned her attention back towards checking her appearance. "But just give me five more minutes, then I'll be ready."
"Sure thing, babe… I'm gonna wait out in the living room, because if I stay in here much longer, I'll be ripping that dress off of you and we won't be going anywhere." He told her shamelessly, Gabby cocking her head to the side as she caught his gaze once more. "But take your time." He added, Matt winking at her before he slipped through the door out into the hallway, leaving a slightly flustered Gabby alone in her bedroom so she could finish getting ready.
Gabby held onto Matt's hand tightly as they walked towards the hall where the Dawson's festivities were being held, Matt having stayed close to her the entire time they moved through the lobby. They had passed a few of her family members along the way, Gabby introducing Matt to them anytime they got stopped, and luckily, no one had said anything about the rather large elephant in the room. At least not yet. But Matt noticed the pitiful looks most of her family had given her, and he was sure she did, too.
But she hadn't mentioned it, and he could only hope no one would say anything to her directly. While he didn't personally know most of her family, from the few he'd met at Diego's birthday party, by the way he'd clearly been the main topic of conversation that day, he knew they had a track record of gossiping to one another, and he knew Gabby's situation would probably be the focal point of any discussions this evening. But as long as no one came to her and tried to ask her about it, he didn't care. Gabby knew more of what she was getting herself into with her family than he did, so he was happy to just sit back and try and enjoy this night with his girl. But he also wouldn't hesitate to put a stop to anyone trying to ask Gabby about what all had happened if the situation warranted it, he didn't care who it was.
"Well, are you ready?" Gabby's voice pulled him from his thoughts, Matt turning to look at her as they stood just outside the large room, the man flashing her a soft smile.
"To be hounded by your entire family? Absolutely." He teased, his words earning a scoff from her before they continued into the ballroom, Matt feeling her grip on his hand tighten even more as they began passing her family members.
They were barely ten feet inside the door when he saw people beginning to stare at them, none of her family quite understanding the concept of being subtle as they walked straight to the bar, grabbing two glasses of champagne before continuing further into the room. For having just gotten started, everyone already seemed to be in full party mode, Matt pretty sure half the room was already tipsy, as everyone talked in smaller groups, while some were already dancing. It was a lively affair, one he couldn't say he was surprised by, knowing Gabby's family.
When they got to their table, they saw Antonio already seated, the man sipping on his beer, while two chairs beside them had some belongings, but no people seated in them.
"Where are…" Antonio nodded towards the dance floor before she could even finish her sentence, Gabby turning around to see her parents already out their dancing, a soft chuckle leaving her lips before she shook her head, the youngest Dawson turning back towards her brother. "Yeah, that's not surprising."
Though Gabby was looking forward to spending some time with her parents and her brother tonight, she was glad to see them already having a good time. After their dinner a few nights ago at her parent's house, Matt had pretty quickly informed her of the conversation he and her mother had in the kitchen, her boyfriend not wanting to keep it from her despite the nature of the topic. And after hearing how upset they all still were, she'd made a point to check in with them more, to make sure they were okay, as well as to try and assure them that she was alright.
"Yeah, not at all." Antonio replied after a few seconds as Matt pulled out Gabby's chair for her, a shrill voice filling their ears just as she sat down.
"Gabriela!"
Gabby and Matt both turned towards the voice, Casey recognizing one of the women walking towards them, the firefighter remembering her from Diego's party, though he didn't have the fondest memories of the woman.
"Oh, God." Gabby muttered under her breath, Matt placing a supportive hand on her shoulder before Marisa got to the table, Gabby's cousin accompanied by someone he didn't recognize. "Hi Marisa, hey Anna." She spoke when they got closer, Gabby standing up to greet them before returning to her seat.
"Hi honey, I'm so glad you came!" Marisa spoke as Matt returned his hand to his girlfriend's shoulder, Gabby looking up at him, finding his eyes focused on the women in front of him. "I wasn't sure we'd see you here… after everything." She continued, her pointed words causing Gabby to wince slightly. "But I'm glad you are, because I've been wanting to talk to you…"
"Marisa-"
"You are just so strong, Gabriela." She continued, ignoring Gabby's attempt to stop her. "What you went through, I'm so glad you're okay."
Drawing in a deep breath, Gabby gave her a nod as she felt Matt rubbing her shoulder, knowing he was doing it in an attempt to keep her comfortable, despite having to address the very last thing she wanted to.
"Thank you." Gabby breathed out, Marisa smiling proudly before turning towards Casey, her grin turning into a smirk as she focused in on the man standing behind her cousin.
"It's, uh- it's nice to see you again, Marisa." He greeted her, though his words weren't exactly true, considering how uncomfortable she'd made him last time, and how uncomfortable she was making Gabby now.
"You too. I wasn't sure you'd still be around, but I'm glad you are." She replied with a gleam in her eye, missing the glare Gabby sent her wait as she turned towards her sister. "Anna, this is Gabby's boyfriend- the firefighter." She said, Matt's eyebrows furrowing when he saw the look of shock that covered Anna's face, her nervous gaze flickering back and forth between Gabby and Matt before she turned towards Marisa.
"...I thought he was in jail."
Though she was whispering, her words weren't nearly quiet enough as Matt's eyes widened slightly, the man immediately turning to look towards his girlfriend, Gabby's face unreadable as she stared at her cousins. He was about to cut in, Matt knowing this conversation needed to end now, but Gabby spoke up before he could.
"This is Matt Casey." Gabby interjected as she stood up. "Yes, he's a firefighter. No, he's not the one currently in jail for being an abusive asshole." She replied bluntly, the woman downing her glass of champagne before stepping away from the table, ignoring the shocked looks on her cousins' faces. "...I need another drink." She muttered, Matt drawing in a deep breath as he watched her walk away, the man turning towards Antonio, seeing the same look of concern in his eyes.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset her." Anna spoke.
"Well, you shouldn't have brought it up at all." Antonio replied bitterly, Marisa narrowing her eyes before looking towards him.
"What? Did she really think no one would have any questions? We all met Bryan, and you think no one's gonna wanna know why she stayed with someone who beat her?"
"It's not any of your goddamn business." Antonio growled before he stood up, Casey not sticking around long enough to hear them no doubt continue to go at it as he went in search of his girlfriend, knowing she was more than likely at the bar already.
Along the way, he felt a few stares on him, Matt knowing most everyone in the room was aware of who he was- or worse, they were like Anna, and couldn't distinguish him from Bryan, but he didn't care so much about that right now, his eyes soon finding his girl as she stood at the bar. But as he got closer, he could tell she was in the middle of a conversation with someone, and by her body language alone, he could tell it wasn't one she wanted to be having.
"Oh my sweet Gabriela, I almost couldn't believe it. When Andrea told me of what happened, I didn't think it was true… How someone could do that to you, I just can't believe it." The older woman spoke profusely as Matt hurried up his steps, knowing the best thing he could do right now was get her away from this conversation.
Tuning out whatever words the older woman was still saying, Matt came up from behind his girlfriend, wrapping his arms around her waist and pressing a kiss to the side of her head, Gabby instantly relaxing in his hold before she turned back to look at him.
"Hey, there you are." He said, though they both were aware that he knew exactly where she was, Gabby flashed him a grateful smile as she turned towards him. "I'm sorry to interrupt," He continued, looking towards the older woman who was watching them curiously.
"Are you the boyfriend?"
"Matt Casey, yeah." He told her, before turning his attention back to Gabby. "I was looking all over for you, I was hoping you'd do me the honor of dancing with me?" He asked, his bright smile flooding her chest with warmth before she nodded.
"Of course I will." She replied, Gabby flashing him a grin before she stepped away from him, just long enough to say her goodbyes to the older woman before the couple walked away from the bar, Gabby holding onto his hand tightly. "Thank you." She murmured, knowing Matt had just saved her from another uncomfortable conversation.
But Casey simply shook his head, the two hearing the slower song that had started to play throughout the room. "Nothing to thank me for, I just wanna dance with my girl." He told her, Gabby unable to stop the smile on her face from growing as they got to the dance floor, Gabby grabbing ahold of his hand as his arm snaked around her waist, keeping her close to him as her hand came up to rest over his back. Enclosing his hand around hers, he held their conjoined hands over his heart as they gently swayed to the music, Gabby drawing in a deep breath while they moved together.
"I don't want you to worry about them." He spoke after a few moments, Gabby opening her eyes as she waited for him to continue. "They don't know what happened, they don't need to know… I know they're your family, but it's none of their business. Tonight, you should just be able to enjoy yourself, and forget the rest of it." He murmured into her ear, Gabby smiling softly as she traced her finger along his shoulder, Matt pulling her closer to him as they continued dancing.
"I love you." She replied softly, Matt smiling before he pressed a kiss to her shoulder, Gabby taking his words to heart as everything else slowly began to fade away.
He was right, she couldn't worry about them. And she didn't want to. She knew they were talking about her, that they had questions, but that didn't matter. All that mattered was her having a nice night with her family, and her boyfriend. And if Matt's behavior so far was any indication, he was going to do everything in his power to make sure that happened.
Regardless of what they thought, or how they felt about what all had happened, she didn't care. Because it didn't matter. And as they continued moving to the music, she found herself becoming completely consumed with thoughts of this moment, and the man holding onto her, all her other worries and nerves washing away as he tightened his grip around her waist.
Matt's actions tonight, and every night, had reminded her just how fortunate she was to have him, though there was a part of her that still wasn't sure how she got so lucky. She didn't know what she'd done to deserve someone as kind and caring and loving as the man dancing with her, but what she did know was that she was beyond glad that she'd found him... That they'd found each other. And Gabby knew she'd spend the rest of her life being thankful for that.