Disclaimer: SVU and all of its characters were created by and are the property of Dick Wolf. I make no profit with this story, which is my own original work.

Three days had passed since Olivia had experienced a virtual tour of the brownstone she and her partner had fallen in love with. In that short period of time, so much had happened. It hadn't taken long for her and Elliot to cement their decision about what would become their future home, and surprisingly, the logistics weren't that hard to figure out, either. The realtor they were working with continued to be beyond empathetic to their situation, and had even brought all the necessary paperwork to them so it could be signed. All Olivia had needed to do was name her partner her emergency power of attorney by using the hospital's notary. That way, he was able to take the necessary documents and - with her permission - access the funds from her credit union account so she could pay her portion of the down payment. As difficult as it was for Olivia to believe, when she left the hospital, she'd be moving into a new residence and wouldn't need to go back to the apartment that, in the end, had been nothing but heartache – both figuratively and literally.

The weekend was full of promise for other reasons, too. In addition to the upcoming move – which, thanks to the help of Elliot and the incredible support of the rest of the Stablers and her SVU family – was being taken care of for her – Calvin would be coming to visit. While he would be spending a short window of time with his father, the majority of it would be spent keeping Olivia company at the hospital while his grandparents took care of some business with their son at the prison. While Olivia and Calvin were reconnecting, they would also be searching for ways to decorate the pre teens future room for whenever he came to stay with her and her partner.

So busy was the state of Olivia's mind, that her morning dialysis session passed in a blur. She could barely remember what she'd eaten for breakfast, only that Elliot had joined her via video call for the duration of it. As promised, he would be in shortly to spend the day with her, and Olivia hoped when she saw her doctors that the news she received would again be positive. So far, her health continued to move in the right direction, and with every day that passed, she was one step closer to discharge. It seemed one of the only complications now was the process of getting set up with an outpatient dialysis program that could fit her in three days a week. Luckily, there were several within the borough of Manhattan, and Elliot had even gone so far as to tell the doctors of his willingness to drive her to Jersey if that was what it took to get the woman he loved home where she belonged.

So lost was she in her daydream, that Olivia barely registered the sound of approaching footsteps until they were in her room. Already most of the morning was gone, but Elliot's presence was recognizable by another factor – the scent of the gourmet coffee that he had brought with him. Now that she had been granted a bit more freedom when it came to her fluid intake, Olivia had been forgoing the basic hospital issue blend that was typically served on her breakfast tray in favor of something her partner would bring her whenever he came to see her. In an abundance of caution, she still made sure Elliot chose the smallest size possible, but it was a luxury she definitely enjoyed.

"Morning, Liv."

Elliot greeted his partner with what was now his customary kiss on the cheek and warm embrace. While the partners had definitely grown more comfortable with one another in terms of gestures of affection, neither had wanted to take any major steps forward in their relationship in the physical sense until Olivia was free from the confines of hospital walls. Even if that meant waiting until they were safely within their own residence before sharing their first real kiss, both felt it would be well worth the delay.

"Hey, El. Did you have any trouble at the bank or credit union?"

"None whatsoever. Got all the business taken care of, and made the deposit. As soon as each of our checks clear, we can start moving in."

Olivia couldn't be any more excited. For the first time in her adult life – in her entire life, really – she was finally going to have a place to call home. Even better, she would get to build a future with her best friend and partner.

"Before I forget, here's your coffee. It's different than your usual, but I had a feeling you were going to like it. It was the special of the day."

Taking a sip of the fragrant brew, Olivia's taste buds were instantly delighted. While she couldn't identify all of the flavors immediately, she could pick up hints of chocolate and raspberry. However, no one profile dominated over the other, and they all balanced together perfectly.

"I love it. It's not overly sweet, but it still feels like a guilty pleasure."

"That's what they say about me, too."

Olivia rolled her eyes, and resisted the urge to punch her partner in the arm. Instead she raised her middle finger in Elliot's direction, using the utmost care not to spill her coffee as she did so.

"Watch it, Stabler. I'm just about to the point where I can kick your ass."

Not long after Olivia had finished her coffee, Dr. Campbell had stopped by for a visit. Going with the current trend of good news that she had been given lately, Olivia was relieved to hear that despite the damage that had occurred to her heart as a result of her illness, extensive cardiac rehab would not be necessary. However, the cardiologist had recommended that she gradually increase her physical activity by going on walks once she was discharged from the hospital in order to continue to improve blood flow. Obviously, routine checkups would be put in place to continue to monitor the condition of her heart, and the beta blocker would be a routine part of her daily regimen until the doctors determined otherwise. All in all, it wasn't that bad of a deal, and certainly something Olivia could live with. The medication wasn't something that would interfere with her ability to do her job – although she still had a long way to go before she would be medically cleared to go back to work.

"Don't even think about that right now, Olivia."

Olivia's cheeks flushed as she realized she had voiced that last part out loud. She couldn't exactly blame her partner for his concern. It wasn't that she was eager to get back to the job – although if she were being truthful with herself, there was a part of her that did miss it. What she really wanted more than anything, however, was to be free from the confines of the hospital, and no one could blame her.

"I didn't mean it the way it sounded, El. Yes, I do want to get back to work, but its not a top priority. I can promise you I'm not going to push myself before I'm ready."

"That's good to hear."

With some free time in between doctor visits, the partners decided to entertain themselves by searching for furniture to decorate their new home. Olivia had already decided that aside from personal belongings and clothes, she would be wanting a completely fresh start. So, that meant looking for things for not only the living and dining room, but her bedroom as well. For the time being, the two were planning on keeping their sleeping quarters separate, but the way their relationship was evolving, neither imagined that it would be very long before they would be sharing not only a living space, but a bed as well. That was why Olivia truly wanted Elliot's input in designing the master bedroom, which he had insisted she take as her own.

"What do you think of this one?"

Olivia was indicating a king size frame, with a padded headboard that was dark gray in color. She had always favored neutral tones, and what she was seeing also looked like it would be comfortable enough to lean up against for watching TV or reading in bed. The headboard and frame were part of a set that included a dresser, chest of drawers and two nightstands. As for the price, it wasn't cheap, but it wouldn't break her bank account either. What Olivia wasn't expecting was for her partner to insist on paying for half of it.

"You don't have to do that."

"Liv, I want to. If it's eventually going to be ours anyway, I want to contribute."

Elliot had made a valid point. They had already decided that the room he was planning on taking would one day be converted into a guest suite. There was no need to designate that particular area for an office, as a space for that use already existed among the many rooms in the brownstone itself.

"Okay. I know better than to argue with you. I'll wait and pick my battles when it comes to choosing paint colors."

Laughing, Elliot pressed a kiss to the crown of Olivia's head.

"Fair enough."

Before the partners could continue their search further, a knock at the door captured their attention. Dr. Abrhams entered the room, and it was hard to tell what the nephrologist had to say based on the look on his face alone. Olivia wanted to believe it was more good news, but she was afraid to hope too much, for fear of getting disappointed.

"Good morning Olivia, Elliot. I know what you are both waiting to hear, so I'm not going to waste time on any pleasantries. Olivia, your labs continue to improve, and I can now say with confidence that I'm perfectly comfortable with letting you leave the hospital. The only downside will be finding you a space in an outpatient dialysis facility. I can assure you that our coordinators and patient advocates are working on it, but you may still be here at least through the weekend."

It wasn't exactly what she wanted to hear, but in the scheme of things, it was something Olivia could live with. Yes, she wanted to go home, but currently her living situation was in transition anyway. Not to mention, necessity dictated that she be in a place where she had access to dialysis. Until she was discharged, she was still going five days a week, trying to get in as much treatment as possible.

"That's okay. While it's not perfect, I want to be sure a plan is in place for when I do go home, so I don't end up back where I started."

"I like your attitude on that. I promise we will keep you updated on our efforts. The only thing I'm sorry about is that we may not be able to accommodate your preference in terms of times, it will likely be whichever facility has an opening and can fit you in."

Now, it was Elliot's turn to speak, but he knew Olivia wouldn't mind his saying something on her behalf.

"That's not a problem. Like I've said before, I'd go anywhere it took to get her the treatment she needed. It doesn't matter where the place is located, or what time they can schedule. We'll make it work."

Following a quick exam, Dr. Abrhams left the partners alone. Even though she was very happy about the developments, something about the potential of finally being discharged from the hospital felt very surreal to Olivia. She just couldn't let herself believe it could become a reality until that moment actually arrived. Most likely because she was afraid of disappointment. Instead, she turned her focus on the brownstone, and the new home that was waiting for her.

With all the activity and planning going on, the day was passing more quickly than most of the others spent in the hospital ever had. Before Olivia was even aware of the time, the dinner trays were being brought around. She and Elliot had pretty much had what could be called a working lunch earlier, continuing with their search efforts while they ate their respective meals. The only downside to more food being served was that it meant than in just a few short hours, Elliot would have to leave, and Olivia would be on her own yet again. Intuitive as always, her partner was easily able to read her mind.

"Not much longer, Liv. Then you'll be back home where you belong."

"I will be, won't I? Home, I mean. I'm not sure I've ever really had that before. But even with the slight bit of anxiety I feel about starting something new, I feel certain that I've made the right choice."

Elliot couldn't hold back his smile.

"I'm glad to hear it. If I'm being honest, I've got a few nerves myself, but none of them involve you. It's more trying to make sure everything is in place and together before you get discharged, though I suppose we could always stay at my old apartment for a few days if we had to."

"We don't have to worry about that this very minute. Right now I just want to focus on having dinner with you, and then enjoying some down time before you need to leave. I know you have errands that will keep you busy most of tomorrow morning, so I want to take advantage of your company while I can."

On that note, Elliot took the opportunity to excuse himself for a few minutes so he could get some food of his own, having not yet had the chance to do so just yet. While he was gone, Olivia took stock of her own tray, and whenever she felt the niggling sensation of frustration creeping in, she reminded herself that if all went according to plan, she would only have to put up with institutionally prepared meals for a little while longer at most, and then even more options would be at her disposal.

Tonight, Olivia was eating what felt like her umpteenth portion of grilled chicken and a side salad. While it had always been a standby favorite, now the selection had grown stale and boring. She was desperate for more variety, but tried to refrain from complaining as much as possible. It was obvious Elliot felt bad enough about what she was going through without having to listen to her whine in his ear all the time.

"Olivia, you're not whining. And as I've said before, you can talk to me about anything."

Damn. She really was making it a habit today of voicing her internal thoughts out loud when she least intended to. While Olivia knew Elliot would never fault her, she still couldn't help the way her cheeks flushed with shame at having been called out for the second time in the span of just a few hours. It wasn't that she was embarrassed of what her partner thought of her, but rather that whatever filters she once possessed seemed to have abandoned her entirely. Then again, maybe with Elliot, she didn't really need them anyway.

"I didn't want to bring up the topic of food, not while you are still so dependent on what the hospital kitchen has to offer, but maybe it will help you to know that I've been doing a lot of research. I've bookmarked several sites in my computer and have been saving recipes that I think will appeal to you so we can try them."

"I appreciate that, El. Maybe I can help you with that sometime, but just not tonight."

"Of course."

With Elliot's companionship and easy conversation, getting through dinner wasn't anywhere near as difficult as Olivia had imagined it would have been. When they were done, they worked together to comprise a list of what was most important to Olivia in her apartment, and any specifics of packing details she wanted to relay to her partner for him to manage on her behalf. It would be strange going through the process of moving without shouldering all the responsibility on her own, but the beauty of relocating to a residence she would be sharing with Elliot meant exactly that – that she would never be alone again. Plus there was no one Olivia trusted more than her partner and the rest of her SVU family to handle the care of her most prized possessions.

After dietary had come to collect Olivia's tray and Elliot had disposed of his own trash, it was more than obvious that the brunette was still very restless. In an effort to help combat some of the anxiety, her partner suggested they take a walk in the halls to burn off some of the excess nervous energy. Olivia was quick to agree, and the two were soon side by side with their steps in perfect sync as always. Once she had taken a few laps, Olivia felt her mind begin to quiet, enough that she knew she would be able to settle in and relax to watch a movie with Elliot before he needed to leave for the night. The ritual had become part of their daily routine, and the down time together always helped tremendously in helping her get ready to sleep.

While she had been spending most of her days sitting upright in the more comfortable of the two chairs assigned to her room, when it came time to watch a movie, Olivia preferred to lie in bed. But she was never alone, Elliot perched carefully on the side so as not to crowd her, with one arm wrapped around her shoulders. Even though she knew she was supposed to be concentrating on the movie, mentally Olivia was doing a countdown in her head. Not just of how many days might be left until she would be discharged from the hospital, but until the weekend. Because, the weekend held so much promise. Not only would it be the official start of a her new beginning in her new home – even if she wouldn't be staying there just yet – but if everything went according to plan, she would finally get to see Calvin again.

As Olivia was being wheeled back to her room after her morning dialysis session, she tried her best to not be sad. It wasn't that she was upset, per se, more that she was preparing herself for a lonely day. When she had spoken to Elliot that morning during breakfast, he had informed her that there were so many errands to run, he wasn't sure what time he would be able to get to the hospital. Not wanting her partner to overtax himself unnecessarily, Olivia had simply told him to go back home after he was done taking care of business, and get the rest he would so desperately need in order to prepare for the upcoming move that weekend. She wasn't angry with him at all, merely trying to figure out how she would get through the many tedious hours without any company. It was a frustrating sensation, especially for a woman as independent as herself, to have grown so used to always having someone else around. But, considering that she and Elliot would soon be sharing a living space, Olivia supposed that was a good thing, knowing there was no way she would tire of his presence.

Deciding to keep herself busy by making some more lists on her computer in regard to how she wanted her packing to be handled, Olivia was deeply focused on her task when she heard the sound of approaching footsteps. Figuring that it was merely one of her doctors coming to make morning rounds, she didn't even pause in her typing, wanting to hurry through and complete her thought before it escaped her mind entirely. Only after finishing the sentence did she glance up, and to her surprise, it wasn't a physician standing in front of her, but instead a very familiar blonde.

"Kathleen? What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be in class?"

"My classes were canceled today. I was talking to dad earlier, finalizing the details so I could help the two of you with your move this weekend, and he told me what was going on. I thought maybe you'd appreciate some company so you wouldn't have to sit here alone staring at the walls, so here I am."

Pushing her tray table to the side, Olivia opened her arms, inviting the younger woman in for a hug.

"It's so good to see you, and you're absolutely right, I am glad you're here. I just hope you aren't neglecting any study time for my benefit."

"Don't worry. I brought some of my books with me. I thought if you ever wanted to rest, or whatever, I could always catch up on my reading."

Knowing there was no way she could argue against that kind of logic, Olivia simply smiled and gestured to the chair next to her, indicating that Kathleen should sit.

"So, what are you up to?"

"Trying to figure out and prioritize packing details. It's hard to think about the fact that I won't have control over any of it. In one way, it's an immense relief that it's something I won't have to worry about, but at the same time, I can't help but feel guilty knowing other people are going to be doing it for me."

Kathleen considered Olivia's words carefully, trying to figure out a way to reassure the woman she looked up to so much.

"Well, if there is anything that you'd rather Dad or some of the men helping not see, and you'd prefer to have a woman handle, why don't you write it down, and I'll make sure either myself or Maureen take care of those chores specifically?"

"That sounds great. Thank you, honey."

Reaching into her bag, Kathleen pulled out something else – an item she hoped would also go a long way in cheering Olivia up.

"I also thought maybe we could give each other a manicure. It doesn't have to be right now, we can always wait until later, but after so much time here, I was thinking that you might appreciate a little pampering."

"I love that idea. Why don't we save that for after lunch?"

Nodding her agreement, Kathleen set the bottle of polish she had brought on the nightstand. She was about to say something else when a doctor walked into the room. Ever respectful of Olivia's privacy, the blonde offered to leave, only to be asked to stay. Deeply touched to be trusted to that level, Kathleen was quick to agree. For her part, Olivia faced Dr. Abrahms, hoping that whatever news her nephrologist was here to impart, it would be positive.

"Good morning, Olivia. I know what you're wanting to hear, so I'll just get right to the point. We have a possible outpatient dialysis center that may be able to take you in, but they won't have an opening until sometime next week. Someone from our social services department will be reaching out to you later today to keep you updated on our coordination efforts, but I can assure you we are working as diligently as possible to get you discharged sooner as opposed to later. Now that you are beyond the critical stage of care, we want you to be able to receive treatment in an environment where you would be more comfortable."

"Thank you. I understand it's not an instant placement, and I appreciate everything you and your team are doing. Actually, it may work in my favor to stay through the weekend anyway, as I'm in the process of moving. Thanks to the help of some amazing friends, I'll be able to head directly to my new home upon discharge from the hospital."

"I'm glad to hear it. A strong support system is very important. It's good you are surrounded by people who care."

With a nod, the doctor excused himself, leaving the two women on their own once more. They hadn't been alone for long before Kathleen spoke up, her excitement obvious.

"I'm so glad that you'll be getting to go home soon, Olivia! However, I can only imagine how you must feel about it. You're probably so sick of this place."

"You've got that right. Don't get me wrong, the staff and everyone have been amazing, and so kind, but I long for the comfort of my own bed, and being able to do things without feeling like I'm always under scrutiny."

"Why don't we go burn off some of that energy? Dad said you enjoy going for walks in the halls. I'd be happy to join you for one."

With a smile, Olivia was quick to agree, and got to her feet. Linking her arm with Kathleen's, the two headed out of her room and turned left down the hall toward the visitor's lounge. It was a different direction than she normally walked with her partner, but felt just as nice to be stretching her legs.

Not long after lunch, Kathleen held true to her earlier promise. Once Olivia's tray had been cleared and her own empty containers were disposed of, the younger woman situated herself in front of the brunette. As the two continued to talk and even gossip a bit about some of the goings on in Kathleen's inner circle at college, Olivia's nails were painted a beautiful shade of pink. The color complimented her skin tone wonderfully, and Olivia couldn't deny that she did indeed feel very pampered. After her nails had dried, she decided to return the favor, and applied polish to Kathleen's nails as well. It was an immense relief that the shaking hands she had experienced earlier in her hospital stay had dissipated almost completely, or else it would have been an even more difficult task.

"I think I'm going to try and rest for a bit, if you don't mind. I've been doing pretty good, managing to get through most of the days without the need for a nap, but I didn't sleep too well last night. Don't get me wrong, I'm not kicking you out. I just want to close my eyes for about an hour or so."

"No problem, Olivia. Take as long as you need. I'll just focus on some of my reading. Did you want to get back in bed, or are you more comfortable as you are in the chair?"

Smiling ruefully, Olivia didn't hesitate in giving her answer.

"I'm going to stay right here. I wasn't kidding when I said earlier that one of the things I'm most looking forward to is sleeping in my own bed again."

"I don't blame you for that."

Pushing the reclining chair back as far as it would go, Olivia accepted Kathleen's offer of a blanket. Closing her eyes, she tried to allow her body to relax as much as possible. The rustling sound of pages being turned as the younger woman read nearby provided a soothing soundtrack of background noise, and within minutes, the brunette had dozed off, getting some much needed rest.

It was only when she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder that Olivia's eyes opened, and she stretched languidly, blinking up at the person standing beside her.

"Sorry to wake you, Olivia, but you've been sleeping for a little more than two and a half hours. I was torn between letting you go, and worried that if you didn't get up soon, you might not be able to sleep tonight."

"You did the right thing. Thank you. I hadn't even realized I was that tired."

Though she hadn't said anything out loud, the worry was evident on Kathleen's face. Olivia had read it easily, and she rushed to reassure Elliot's daughter before those concerns could be passed along to her father.

"It's nothing, really. Like I said, I didn't sleep well last night. While my room is usually quiet, someone else on the floor was having a rough time, and they were pretty loud. The noise kind of carried over, and it kept waking me up."

Kathleen's sigh of relief was audible, and Olivia squeezed the younger woman's hand.

"I promise, I've been honest with your dad about everything, and my doctors wouldn't even consider letting me go home if anything was still seriously wrong."

"I know. You've just come so far, I hate to even think of you getting that sick again."

"You and me both."

Feeling restless, and wanting to stretch her legs again before dinner, Olivia brought up the idea of another walk. Kathleen was quick to agree, and then mentioned she would likely head back to school not long after the evening meal. As they traveled the hallway together, Olivia marveled over the fact that her partner had managed to stay away from the hospital, which prompted a confession from the woman by her side.

"Actually, I was in touch with Dad while you were sleeping. He was going to come in, and I told him to go home and rest. I hope that is okay."

"It's perfect. It's exactly what I would have said. I'm just surprised he listened. I have a feeling I'll be getting a phone call later."

"You probably will. I know I don't have to tell you how stubborn Dad can be. It took a lot of convincing. I think it helped him knowing you weren't alone."

"I'm sure it did. I know it helped me. I've enjoyed spending time with you today. My nails certainly look better for it, too."

"Happy to help."

Later that night, Olivia had just finalized the last of her packing lists. She was trying her best not to stress about the prospect of moving, especially considering it was a process she had no control over. Just before Kathleen had left earlier, she had taken with her the more important information containing instructions for the most delicate of Olivia's possessions. Having entrusted the care of her of her breakable and more personal items into the hands of the two oldest Stabler offspring, Olivia was able to breathe a lot easier. Not that she for one second thought that Elliot, Fin, or any of the other men she worked with would ever handle her things with anything but a delicate touch or the utmost respect, but knowing that they would only be seen by other women allowed a considerable weight to be lifted off her shoulders.

With her mind finally at ease – or at least as much as it could possibly be given the circumstances – Olivia was trying to figure out the best way to pass the time until she attempted to sleep. It was definitely still to early to do that now, especially considering the nap she had taken earlier. She was feeling a bit too restless to focus on either reading or watching something, but the prospect of working on some of the coloring pages, combined with listening to music, was an appealing idea.

Before she could reach for the book that Fin had given her filled with flowery images and coarse language, Olivia's phone rang. The display was lit up with Elliot's name, indicating an incoming video call. Swiping her finger across the screen to connect, Olivia greeted her partner with a smile.

"Hey. I thought you were supposed to be resting tonight."

"I am. Doesn't mean I still can't talk to you while doing so."

"Fair enough. Did you get everything taken care of that you needed to today?"

Elliot assured her that he had, then deftly switched the subject. Even though he had no doubt talked with Kathleen and been given a full report on what had happened during the day at the hospital, he wanted to hear from Olivia herself what had been said. Deeply touched by the level of concern, Olivia didn't hesitate to reassure her partner.

"Dr. Abrhams is still saying I can leave as early as after the weekend. Pretty much the only thing holding me back is finding placement in an outpatient dialysis facility, but they are working as hard as they can to find me a spot in one. As much as I do want to get out of here, I explained to him that it's probably for the best that there is a slight holdup, given that our housing situation is in limbo at the moment."

"You know we'd work something out, Liv. I'm not letting you go back to that apartment. Yes, I know you probably have good memories after having spent so many years there, but I also know why you wanted to cut ties with the place, and have a fresh start. But the important thing is that you're healthy. I know that's all you want, too."

Not wanting to pressure Olivia unnecessarily, Elliot switched the topic again, asking her instead about how she and Kathleen had spent their day. That gave the brunette the perfect opportunity to show off her new manicure. As much as she was trying not to complain, Olivia's discomfort was obvious, something that Elliot picked up on immediately.

"Liv, what is it?"

"Nothing to worry about. Just my back and neck getting tired of this bed. Don't get me wrong, having my own pillow helps tremendously – I don't think I can ever thank you enough for that – but I look forward to being on a real mattress again."

What Olivia had said caused a spark of an idea in Elliot's brain. As much as he wanted to offer another sort of surprise for his partner, he thought maybe this was something that required her input – especially since he wasn't sure exactly what limitations she might be under.

"What would you say to having a professional massage at a spa once you're out of the hospital? I'd be happy to treat you to one."

Her facial features softening immediately, Olivia wished that Elliot was in the room with her at that very moment so she could either hug him or reach out and hold his hand as she gave her answer.

"Don't get me wrong, El, I love that idea. It sounds absolutely amazing."

"But?"

"But I think I may have to wait a bit longer before accepting your offer on that one. At least until I'm one hundred percent healed and the dialysis catheter is removed. I'm not sure how comfortable it would be to lie on my stomach and put pressure on it. I'm already so paranoid as it as is it is about bumping it in the wrong way."

There was no judgment whatsoever in Elliot's expression, only compassion and total understanding.

"I get it. So, how about a raincheck? This is me, promising you here and now, that as soon as you have a clean bill of health, I will treat you to the spa day of your dreams."

"You've got yourself a deal, partner."

Even though she had told herself not that long ago that she wasn't that tired, Olivia couldn't help but conceal a yawn. It was then that she realized that she had been talking to Elliot on the phone for well over an hour. Her nurse would be coming in shortly to be administering her nightly meds, and she also knew that she wasn't the only one in need of sleep.

"I should let you go, El. I don't want to keep you awake all night. I know you're going to want to come to the hospital tomorrow, and I also am aware you probably have like twenty things you'll want to do before you get here."

"You know I'll stay up and talk to you for as long as you want, Liv."

"I do, and I love you for it. But you need your rest, too. The weekend is almost here, and I can't have you exhausted when you're moving our things into the new place. Since I'm not going to be there, someone will have to keep Fin and John in line."

Laughing, Elliot couldn't help but agree that Olivia had a point.

"Okay, you win. Did you need me to bring you anything when I come in tomorrow?"

"Maybe something from a bakery? You know the things I like and what's on my allowed foods list, so why don't you surprise me?"

"You've got it. I'll see you in the morning. Goodnight."

The pair exchanged their farewells, and the words of love that were both foreign and yet somehow becoming all too familiar. Ending the call, Olivia plugged her phone in to charge and made her way to the bathroom for what she hoped would be the final time before going to sleep. She also kept her fingers crossed that whomever it was on her floor that had so much difficulty the previous night would not have a repeat occurrence.