Elliot received the files right after boarding the plane. He was glad there was no one in the seat next to him. He wanted to read the files and view the crime scene without prying eyes.

The plane took off and a few minutes later the pilot informed the passengers they could use their electronics. Elliot pulled out his laptop. He opened the tray in front of him and set the computer down. An 8 hour flight would provide ample time to review the files and get up to speed on Liv's case. He let out a slow breath as he clicked open the first file. He wasn't sure what to expect, but nothing, even all his years in SVU, could prepare him for nightmare she suffered.

Six hours into the flight Elliot's head started to pound. He wanted to know everything he could about the case before he landed, but he couldn't look at one more photo. The first crime scene photos were difficult to view, but he powered through. Liv's apartment, a place he frequented, had been torn apart. His stomach turned at the photos of keys on the stove and duct tape on the floor. It wasn't until he reached the photos of Liv's bare body, covered in burns that he completely lost it. He rushed to the bathroom to throw up. Guilt wracked his entire being. The thought of her screaming in pain, hot metal being pressed into her skin, tore him apart. For thirteen years he committed to protect her, and when she needed him most he failed her.

He prayed she could forgive him, though he knew he would never forgive himself. His person, his partner, his best friend, and if he was truly honest with himself, the woman he loved, was tortured, assaulted, and nearly killed and he did nothing to stop it.

While the plane taxied he pulled his phone from his pocket to text Kathleen.

Just landed. I'll meet you at baggage claim.

Kathleen responded with a thumbs up emoji. The captain announced the time as 7:08 am in New York City. The courthouse would be bustling with people soon. He intended to have Kathleen drive him straight there. He needed to see Liv. He needed to see with his own eyes that she was alive, and okay. He wouldn't be able to rest until he knew she was safe.

-Kathleen tried to convince him to sleep for a few hours, but to no avail. He was going to the court house and he was going to see her as soon as he could.

They arrived at the courthouse a little after nine. Kathleen agreed to take his bags to her apartment. She made him promise to call with any news.

Elliot felt a strange nostalgia as he walked up the courthouse stairs. This place had been a huge part of his life, and he admitted to himself he missed it. It wasn't hard to find the courtroom where the trial was taking place. He just followed the enormous media presence. He slipped through the crowd and reached the door to the courtroom. He paused to take a deep breath. Here we go he thought as he pushed the door open and found a place to stand in the back of the room.

Author Note: It might be a few days before I can update. I need to go back to the Lewis Episodes so I can get the dialogue from episode right. I want the tone and conversation to feel appropriate to the episodes. Be patient and I'll update soon!