Jay was picking up four-year-old Tommy from school when he noticed Tommy walking out with his teacher, holding a negative report card.
Jay's heart sank a little as he saw the report card. He took a deep breath and approached Tommy and his teacher with a calm demeanor.
"Hi, Mrs. Smith," Jay greeted the teacher. "Is everything okay?"
Mrs. Smith gave a reassuring smile. "Tommy had a bit of a tough day today. His report card reflects some areas where he needs improvement, but we can work on it together."
Jay knelt down to Tommy's level. "Hey, buddy. It's okay. We'll figure this out together. How about we talk about it over some ice cream?"
Tommy's eyes lit up at the mention of ice cream, and he nodded. Jay knew that with a little support and encouragement, they could turn this around.
As they walked to the car, Jay held Tommy's hand and chatted about his day. Once they were settled with their ice cream, Jay gently brought up the report card.
"Tommy, I saw your report card today. It looks like there are some things we need to work on. But that's okay! Everyone has things they can get better at. How do you feel about it?"
Tommy looked down at his ice cream, a bit unsure. "I don't like it, Daddy. I tried really hard."
Jay nodded, understanding. "I know you did, buddy. And trying hard is really important. Let's talk to Mrs. Smith and see how we can help you do even better. Maybe we can make learning fun together!"
Tommy smiled a little, feeling reassured. Jay knew that with patience and positive reinforcement, they could help Tommy improve and feel more confident.
When Jay and Tommy arrived back home, they were surprised to see Erin and Kim Burgess sitting on the couch, deep in conversation. Erin looked up and smiled warmly at them.
"Hey, you two! How was your day?" Erin asked, noticing the slightly serious look on Jay's face.
Jay gave a small smile. "We had a bit of a tough day at school, but we're working through it. Tommy got a report card that wasn't great, but we're going to help him improve."
Kim, always the supportive friend, chimed in. "Hey, Tommy! You know, everyone has days like that. The important thing is that you're trying your best. And you've got a great team here to help you out."
Tommy nodded, feeling a bit more reassured with all the support around him. Erin got up and gave Tommy a hug. "How about we all have a fun evening together? Maybe we can play a game or watch a movie."
Jay smiled, grateful for the support. "That sounds like a great idea. Let's make it a fun night."
With Erin and Kim's encouragement, the evening turned into a joyful and supportive time, helping Tommy feel more confident and loved.
Later that evening, after a fun time with Tommy, Jay and Erin settled down on the couch to watch a movie. Jay leaned back, feeling relaxed as Erin gently scratched his lower back. It was a comforting gesture that always helped him unwind.
Meanwhile, Kim and the rest of the intelligence unit were keeping Tommy entertained with some games and stories. Tommy, curious as ever, noticed Erin's actions and turned to Kim with a puzzled look.
"What's Mommy doing to Daddy?" Tommy asked innocently.
Kim smiled and leaned down to Tommy's level. "She's just helping him relax, Tommy. Sometimes, when people are tired or had a tough day, a little back scratch can make them feel better."
Tommy nodded, understanding a bit more. "Oh, like when Daddy gives me a hug when I'm sad?"
"Exactly," Kim replied. "It's just a way to show someone you care about them."
Tommy smiled, feeling reassured. He turned back to his game, happy to know that everyone was looking out for each other. Jay and Erin exchanged a warm glance, grateful for the support of their friends and the love of their little family.
As the evening continued, Tommy noticed Hank Voight sitting quietly in a corner, watching the interactions with a thoughtful expression. Curious, Tommy walked over to him.
"Hi, Mr. Voight," Tommy said, looking up at him. "What are you doing?"
Voight smiled warmly at the little boy. "Hey there, Tommy. I'm just watching everyone have a good time. How about you? Are you having fun?"
Tommy nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah! But I saw Mommy scratching Daddy's back. Why does that make him feel better?"
Voight chuckled softly. "Well, sometimes when people care about each other, they do little things to help each other relax. It's like when someone gives you a hug or a pat on the back. It shows they care."
Tommy thought about this for a moment. "So, it's like when you help Daddy at work?"
Voight nodded. "Exactly. We all help each other in different ways. And right now, we're all here to help you too."
Tommy smiled, feeling even more reassured. "Thanks, Mr. Voight."
Voight gave Tommy a gentle pat on the shoulder. "Anytime, kiddo. Now, how about we join the others and see what fun we can have?"
Tommy nodded eagerly and took Voight's hand, leading him back to where the rest of the group was gathered. The evening continued with laughter and warmth, reinforcing the strong bonds of friendship and family.
As the movie ended, Erin and Jay decided to turn off the TV and relax on the couch. Jay lay down, resting his head comfortably between Erin's legs, feeling completely at ease. Erin gently ran her fingers through his hair, a soothing gesture that helped him unwind even more.
Meanwhile, Tommy, who had been engrossed in his games with the intelligence unit, suddenly noticed the TV was off and his parents were no longer watching. He looked around, a bit puzzled.
"Where did Mommy and Daddy go?" Tommy asked, his curiosity piqued.
Kim smiled and pointed towards the couch. "They're just relaxing over there, Tommy. Sometimes grown-ups need a little quiet time to rest."
Tommy nodded, understanding. "Oh, okay. Can I go say goodnight to them?"
"Of course," Kim replied. "I'm sure they'd love that."
Tommy walked over to the couch and saw Jay and Erin looking relaxed and happy. "Goodnight, Daddy. Goodnight, Mommy," he said softly.
Jay smiled and reached out to give Tommy a hug. "Goodnight, buddy. Sleep well."
Erin leaned down and kissed Tommy on the forehead. "Sweet dreams, Tommy."
Feeling reassured and loved, Tommy headed off to bed, knowing that his family was always there for him. Jay and Erin exchanged a warm glance, grateful for the peaceful end to their day.
The next morning, Tommy woke up early and decided to check on Erin and Jay. He quietly walked into their room and saw them fast asleep. Jay's head was nestled comfortably against Erin's chest, and her legs were draped over his. They looked peaceful and content.
Tommy tiptoed closer and gently tried to wake them. "Daddy, Mommy, wake up," he whispered.
Erin stirred slightly and opened her eyes, seeing Tommy standing by the bed. She smiled softly and whispered, "Give us a little bit more time, Tommy. We'll be up soon."
Tommy nodded, understanding. "Okay, Mom. I'll go play with my toys."
Erin watched as Tommy quietly left the room, feeling grateful for his understanding. She snuggled back into Jay, enjoying the last few moments of their peaceful morning together. After a little while, they both got up, ready to start the day with Tommy.
A little while later, Erin and Jay finally stirred and got out of bed. They found Tommy playing quietly with his toys in the living room. Jay walked over and scooped him up into a big hug.
"Good morning, buddy! Thanks for letting us sleep a bit longer," Jay said with a smile.
Tommy giggled. "Good morning, Daddy! I was playing with my dinosaurs."
Erin joined them, giving Tommy a kiss on the cheek. "How about we make some breakfast together? What do you feel like eating today?"
Tommy thought for a moment. "Pancakes! Can we have pancakes?"
"Absolutely," Erin replied. "Let's make a big pancake breakfast."
The three of them headed to the kitchen, where they worked together to mix the batter and cook the pancakes. Jay flipped the pancakes with a flourish, making Tommy laugh, while Erin set the table.
As they sat down to eat, Jay looked around at his family, feeling grateful for the simple, happy moments they shared. "This is the best way to start the day," he said, smiling at Erin and Tommy.
Tommy nodded enthusiastically, his mouth full of pancake. "Yeah! I love pancakes!"
Erin laughed and reached over to ruffle Tommy's hair. "And we love you, Tommy."
With their hearts full and their bellies satisfied, they knew they were ready to face whatever the day might bring, together.
After a hearty breakfast, Erin and Jay got ready for work. They dropped Tommy off at school, giving him extra hugs and encouragement for the day ahead. Then, they headed to the district together.
As they walked into the district, they were greeted by their colleagues. The atmosphere was bustling with activity, as usual. Voight was already in his office, going over some files, while Kim and the rest of the team were discussing the day's assignments.
"Morning, everyone," Jay said, giving a nod to his teammates.
"Morning," Erin added with a smile. "Anything urgent on the agenda today?"
Voight looked up and gave them a nod. "Morning. We've got a few cases to review, but nothing too pressing right now. Let's gather in the briefing room in ten."
Jay and Erin exchanged a glance, feeling ready to tackle the day. They headed to their desks to settle in and prepare for the briefing. As they did, Jay couldn't help but feel grateful for the supportive team around them, both at work and at home.
As Jay was settling in at his desk, his phone buzzed with a notification. He glanced at the screen and saw a message from Tommy's school. His heart skipped a beat, hoping it wasn't anything serious.
"Hey, Erin," Jay called over softly. "I just got a message from Tommy's school. I'm going to check it out."
Erin looked up, concern in her eyes. "Is everything okay?"
Jay opened the message and quickly read through it. A wave of relief washed over him as he saw it was from Mrs. Smith, Tommy's teacher.
"Hi Mr. Halstead, just wanted to let you know that Tommy is having a much better day today. He's participating well and seems more confident. Thought you'd like to know!"
Jay smiled and showed the message to Erin. "Looks like Tommy's doing great today. Mrs. Smith says he's participating well and seems more confident."
Erin's face lit up with a smile. "That's wonderful news! I'm so glad to hear that."
Jay nodded, feeling a sense of pride and relief. "Yeah, it's a good start to the day. Let's keep this positive momentum going."
With renewed energy, Jay and Erin joined the rest of the team in the briefing room, ready to tackle the day's challenges with a lighter heart, knowing that Tommy was doing well.
Just as the team was wrapping up their briefing, a call came in about a shooting at the L platform. The intelligence unit sprang into action, heading to the scene with urgency.
When they arrived, the platform was chaotic, with people scattering and police trying to secure the area. Jay's heart sank as he saw a familiar figure lying on the ground. It was his father, Pat, bleeding from a gunshot wound.
"Pat!" Jay shouted, rushing to his father's side. He immediately knelt down and applied pressure to the wound, trying to stop the bleeding.
Voight quickly assessed the situation and grabbed his radio. "We need an ambulance at the L platform, now! Officer down, critical condition!"
Jay's hands were steady, but his mind was racing. "Hang in there, Dad. Help is on the way," he said, his voice filled with determination.
Pat looked up at Jay, pain evident in his eyes. "Jay… I'm sorry…"
"Don't talk, Dad. Save your strength," Jay urged, keeping pressure on the wound. He could hear the sirens in the distance, knowing that every second counted.
The rest of the team worked to secure the area and gather information, but their focus was also on supporting Jay and his father. The ambulance arrived quickly, and paramedics rushed to take over from Jay, carefully lifting Pat onto a stretcher.
"We're taking him to Med," one of the paramedics said. "He's in good hands."
Jay nodded, his face set with determination. "I'm coming with you."
Voight placed a reassuring hand on Jay's shoulder. "We'll handle things here. Go with your dad."
Jay climbed into the ambulance, holding his father's hand as they sped towards the hospital, praying that Pat would pull through. The rest of the team watched them go, their thoughts with Jay and his family.
The ambulance arrived at Chicago Med, and the paramedics quickly wheeled Pat into the emergency room. Jay stayed close by, his heart pounding with worry. Dr. Will Halstead, Jay's brother, was already waiting, having been alerted by the paramedics.
"Will!" Jay called out as he saw his brother.
Will rushed over, his face a mix of concern and determination. "Jay, what happened?"
"He's been shot. I kept pressure on the wound, but he's lost a lot of blood," Jay explained, his voice tight with emotion.
Will nodded, taking charge. "We'll take it from here. Stay with me, Jay."
The medical team worked swiftly, moving Pat into a trauma bay. Jay watched as Will and the other doctors assessed the situation, their movements precise and focused. He felt a mix of helplessness and hope, knowing his father was in the best possible hands.
"Jay, we need to stabilize him and get him into surgery," Will said, his tone professional but filled with brotherly concern. "He's strong. We'll do everything we can."
Jay nodded, gripping his brother's arm. "I know you will. Just… save him, Will."
Will gave a reassuring nod before turning back to his team. Jay stepped back, allowing the doctors to work, but he stayed close, watching through the glass as they fought to save his father's life.
Minutes felt like hours as Jay waited, his mind racing with thoughts and prayers. Finally, Will emerged from the trauma bay, his expression serious but hopeful.
"He's stable enough for surgery," Will said. "It's going to be a long procedure, but he's got a fighting chance."
Jay let out a breath he didn't realize he'd been holding. "Thank you, Will. I know you'll do everything you can."
Will gave his brother a quick hug. "We'll keep you updated. Stay strong, Jay."
As Pat was wheeled into surgery, Jay found a seat in the waiting area, his thoughts with his father and the hope that he would pull through. The rest of the intelligence unit arrived shortly after, offering their support and solidarity.
"We're here for you, Jay," Voight said, placing a hand on Jay's shoulder. "Whatever you need."
Jay nodded, grateful for his team's presence. "Thanks, everyone. It means a lot."
Together, they waited, drawing strength from each other as they hoped for the best outcome for Pat.
As Jay sat in the waiting area, the tension was palpable. Adam Ruzek approached him, holding out a cup of coffee.
"Here, Jay. Thought you might need this," Ruzek said, offering a supportive smile.
Jay took the cup, but his hands were shaking with anxiety and frustration. He squeezed the cup tightly, causing the lid to pop off and some coffee to spill. In a moment of frustration, he tossed the cup into the trash can nearby.
"Thanks, Adam," Jay said, his voice strained. "I just… I can't sit still right now."
Ruzek nodded, understanding. "I get it, man. It's tough. But we're all here for you. Whatever you need."
Jay took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. "I know. I just hate feeling so helpless."
Voight, who had been watching from a distance, stepped closer. "Jay, your dad's in good hands. Will and the team are doing everything they can. You need to stay strong for him."
Jay nodded, appreciating the support from his team. "You're right. Thanks, Voight. Thanks, everyone."
The team stayed close, offering their silent support as Jay continued to wait for news about his father.
As the minutes dragged on, Jay's anxiety began to take a physical toll. He turned pale and started trembling, his mind racing with worry. Erin noticed immediately and called his name.
"Jay? Jay, are you okay?" Erin asked, her voice filled with concern.
But Jay didn't respond, lost in his own thoughts. Erin's worry deepened, and she looked to Voight for help.
"Voight, something's wrong with Jay," Erin said urgently.
Voight quickly assessed the situation and called over a nearby nurse. "We need some help here!"
The nurse hurried over, taking in Jay's condition. "Let's get him to a quiet room and check his vitals," she said, guiding Jay gently but firmly.
Erin and Voight helped Jay to his feet and followed the nurse to a private room. The nurse took Jay's blood pressure and checked his pulse, speaking calmly to reassure him.
"Jay, you're experiencing a lot of stress right now. It's important to take deep breaths and try to relax," the nurse said soothingly.
Erin held Jay's hand, her eyes filled with concern. "Jay, we're here for you. Just breathe, okay?"
Jay nodded, trying to follow the nurse's instructions. Slowly, his breathing steadied, and some color returned to his face. The nurse gave him a reassuring smile.
"You're going to be okay, Jay. Just take it easy for a bit," she said.
Voight placed a hand on Jay's shoulder. "We're all here for you, Jay. You're not alone in this."
Jay looked around at Erin, Voight, and the nurse, feeling a bit more grounded. "Thanks, everyone. I just… I need to know he's going to be okay."
"We'll get through this together," Erin said softly, squeezing his hand. "One step at a time."
A few moments later, Dr. Connor Rhodes walked into the room, his expression serious. Jay's heart sank as he saw the look on the doctor's face.
"Dr. Rhodes," Jay said, his voice trembling. "How's my dad?"
Dr. Rhodes took a deep breath before speaking. "Jay, I'm afraid I don't have good news. Your father sustained significant internal injuries from the gunshot wound. We did everything we could, but his condition is critical. He's stable for now, but the next 24 hours are going to be crucial."
Jay felt a wave of emotion crash over him. Erin tightened her grip on his hand, offering silent support.
"Is there anything more we can do?" Jay asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
"We're monitoring him closely and providing all the necessary care," Dr. Rhodes replied. "Right now, it's a waiting game. We'll keep you updated on any changes."
Jay nodded, trying to process the information. "Thank you, Dr. Rhodes."
Dr. Rhodes gave a sympathetic nod. "I'm sorry, Jay. We'll do everything we can."
As Dr. Rhodes left the room, Jay felt a mix of fear and helplessness. Erin wrapped her arms around him, holding him close.
"We're here for you, Jay," she whispered. "We'll get through this together."
Voight stepped forward, his expression resolute. "We'll stay by your side, Jay. Whatever happens, you're not alone."
Jay took a deep breath, drawing strength from Erin and his team. "Thanks, everyone. I just… I need to be with him."
Erin nodded. "Let's go see him. He needs to know you're here."
Together, they made their way to Pat's room, ready to face whatever came next with the support of their friends and family.
Jay walked into Pat's room, his heart heavy with worry. The room was quiet, the only sound being the steady beeping of the monitors. Pat lay in the hospital bed, looking pale and fragile, but still fighting.
Jay pulled up a chair and sat next to his father, taking his hand gently. "Hey, Dad," he said softly. "I'm here."
Pat's eyes fluttered open, and he managed a weak smile. "Jay… you came."
"Of course I did," Jay replied, his voice filled with emotion. "You're going to get through this, Dad. We're all here for you."
Pat squeezed Jay's hand weakly. "I'm sorry, son… for everything."
Jay shook his head, tears welling up in his eyes. "There's nothing to be sorry for, Dad. Just focus on getting better. We need you."
Pat nodded slightly, his eyes closing again as he drifted back into a restless sleep. Jay stayed by his side, holding his hand and silently praying for his father's recovery.
Erin stood in the doorway, watching the tender moment between father and son. She knew how much this meant to Jay and was determined to support him through it all.
As the hours passed, Jay remained by Pat's side, drawing strength from the love and support of his family and friends.
As Jay sat by his father's side, the steady beeping of the monitors suddenly changed to a flatline. His heart dropped as he realized what was happening.
"Code blue! We need help in here!" a nurse shouted, rushing into the room with a team of doctors.
Jay felt a surge of panic and helplessness. "Dad, no!" he cried out, but a nurse gently but firmly took him by the arm.
"Jay, you need to step outside," she said, guiding him out of the room. "Let the doctors work."
Jay resisted for a moment, his eyes fixed on his father, but he knew he had to let the medical team do their job. He stumbled out into the hallway, where Erin and the rest of the team were waiting.
Erin immediately wrapped her arms around him, holding him tightly. "Jay, I'm so sorry," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion.
Jay buried his face in her shoulder, trying to hold back the tears. "I can't lose him, Erin. I can't."
Voight and the rest of the team stood nearby, their expressions somber and supportive. They knew there were no words that could ease Jay's pain, but their presence was a silent promise that he wasn't alone.
Minutes felt like hours as they waited for news. Finally, Dr. Rhodes emerged from the room, his expression grave.
"I'm sorry, Jay," he said quietly. "We did everything we could, but your father didn't make it."
Jay felt the world crumble around him. Erin held him tighter, offering what comfort she could. The rest of the team closed in, forming a protective circle around Jay as he began to process the devastating loss.
"We're here for you, Jay," Voight said softly. "Whatever you need, we're here."
Jay nodded, his voice barely a whisper. "Thank you. I just… I need a moment."
The team gave him space, but stayed close, ready to support him in any way they could. Jay knew that, despite the pain, he had the strength of his family and friends to help him through this darkest of times.
Dr. Rhodes walked out of the room, his face etched with a look of guilt and sorrow. He approached Jay and the team, clearly struggling with the weight of the news he had to deliver.
"Jay," Dr. Rhodes began, his voice heavy with emotion. "I'm so sorry. We did everything we could, but your father didn't make it."
The words hit Jay like a ton of bricks. He felt his knees buckle, and before he could stop himself, he broke into sobs, collapsing into Connor's arms. Dr. Rhodes held him tightly, offering what comfort he could as Jay's grief poured out.
Erin rushed to Jay's side, her own eyes filled with tears. She placed a comforting hand on his back, whispering soothing words. "It's okay, Jay. Let it out. We're here for you."
The rest of the team stood close, their expressions mirroring the pain and sympathy they felt for Jay. Voight stepped forward, his voice firm but gentle.
"Jay, we're here for you. Whatever you need, we're not going anywhere."
Jay clung to Connor, his sobs gradually subsiding as he drew strength from the support of his friends and family. "Thank you, everyone," he managed to say through his tears. "I just… I need some time."
The team nodded, giving Jay the space he needed while staying close by, ready to offer their support. Jay knew that, despite the overwhelming grief, he wasn't alone. With the love and strength of those around him, he would find a way to get through this.
Dr. Rhodes took a deep breath and approached the life support machine. "Jay, it's time," he said gently, his hand hovering over the switch.
Jay's heart pounded in his chest. As Connor turned off the life support, the room was filled with a deafening silence. Jay broke into sobs, his grief overwhelming him. He tried to reach out to stop the nurse, his emotions spilling over.
"No, please!" Jay cried, his voice cracking. "Don't…"
Erin quickly moved to Jay's side, pulling his head into her chest. "Jay, it's okay. I'm here," she whispered, her own tears falling as she held him tightly.
Just then, the door opened, and Tommy toddled in, holding hands with Sergeant Platt. The nurse immediately stepped forward. "I'm sorry, but no under 18s are allowed in here."
Tommy's eyes widened as he saw his father crying. He looked up at Platt, confusion and concern written all over his face. Platt gently guided Tommy back out of the room, giving Jay and Erin a sympathetic look.
"It's okay, Tommy," Platt said softly. "Let's go wait outside."
As the door closed behind them, Jay's sobs continued, muffled against Erin's chest. She held him close, her heart breaking for him. The rest of the team stood nearby, their presence a silent testament to their support and solidarity.
In that moment, Jay knew that despite the immense pain, he wasn't alone. Surrounded by the love and strength of his family and friends, he would find a way to navigate through this heartbreaking loss.
After the life support was turned off, Jay and Erin walked out of the room, their hearts heavy with grief. Jay's eyes were red from crying, and he leaned heavily on Erin for support.
They made their way to the waiting area, where Erin gently guided Jay to the couch. She sat down and patted her legs, inviting him to rest his head there.
"Come here, Jay," she said softly. "Just lie down for a bit."
Jay hesitated for a moment, then lay down, resting his head on Erin's lap. She began to stroke his hair gently, offering him comfort in the only way she could.
"It's going to be okay," Erin whispered, her voice soothing. "I'm right here with you."
Jay closed his eyes, letting the warmth of Erin's touch and her calming presence wash over him. The rest of the team stood nearby, giving them space but ready to offer their support whenever needed.
Voight drove the team back to Erin and Jay's place, the car filled with a heavy silence. Jay sat next to Erin, his eyes staring blankly out the window, lost in his thoughts. Erin kept a comforting hand on his arm, her heart aching for him.
The rest of the unit sat quietly, respecting Jay's need for space but ready to offer their support. Voight glanced in the rearview mirror, his expression a mix of concern and determination.
As they pulled up to the house, Erin gently squeezed Jay's arm. "We're home, Jay," she said softly.
Jay blinked, coming back to the present. He nodded slowly, his eyes still distant. Erin helped him out of the car, and the rest of the team followed, their presence a silent show of solidarity.
Inside the house, Erin guided Jay to the couch and sat down next to him. The team settled in around them, creating a circle of support.
Voight spoke up, his voice steady. "Jay, we're here for you. Whatever you need, just let us know."
Jay nodded, his voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you, everyone. I appreciate it."
Erin wrapped her arms around Jay, holding him close. "We'll get through this together," she whispered, her voice filled with love and determination.
The team stayed close, offering their silent support as Jay began to process the immense loss. Surrounded by the strength and love of his friends and family, he knew he wasn't alone in this difficult time.