They left in Stabler's truck, stopped for a burger on the way home at a shitty diner, to finally come back to her apartment around midnight. They entered her place laughing, Elliot telling her about Fin's uncomfortable encounter with a 4-star general earlier tonight, which forced him to feign uncontrollable sneezing just to escape. The atmosphere was easy, relaxed, and the evening, especially the end of it, was shaping up to be just perfect.

Now, here they were, laughing and sharing stories, relishing in the simplicity of crappy food even though they were still dressed in their gala attire. This was way better than phone calls with a timer. This was how it was supposed to be: Benson and Stabler. Despite the months apart, they fell into their partnership again, and it felt amazing. It felt like home.

Olivia offered him a drink and mentioned her plan to change into something more comfortable. She extended the offer of clothes for him too.

"Nah, I'm good." He said, in the process of removing his tie and vest.

Olivia returned a few minutes later with jogging pants and a hoodie neatly folded for him. Even though she had changed into yoga pants and a wool hoodie, the compass necklace was still hanging from her neck, and Elliot's heart skipped a beat.

"Here." She handed the clothes to him.

"It's fine, Liv, I'll keep my clothes." he dismissed.

"Why are you so stubborn?"

"I don't want to wear some of your old boyfriends' clothes." He half-teased.

Olivia scoffed and threw the clothes to him.

"Go change, Detective. I'll pour the drinks." She ordered, walking to the kitchen without letting him argue.

Elliot caved and made his way to the bathroom.

"Make some popcorn too." he shouted through the door, and she smiled, appreciating the ease with which they fell back into their familiar banter.