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.

When Olivia woke on Monday morning, she resisted the urge to pinch herself. She had barely slept the night before, too worried that something would happen to prevent the much awaited discharge that was looming in front of her. Even now, a part of her was afraid to believe that it might actually be happening, terrified that an unforeseen complication might pop up at the last possible second and keep her within the hospital walls indefinitely.

Thankfully, her anxiety did not go unnoticed, her partner picking up on her distress even when he was still miles away. When her phone display lit up mere seconds later, indicating an incoming video call, Olivia didn't hesitate to answer, welcoming not only the distraction, but the comfort that Elliot's voice – and face - would provide.

"Hey, El. Once again, you have perfect timing."

"I figured you would be spiraling by now."

"You know me too well."

Olivia concentrated on the image of her partner's face on the screen in front of her, and allowed his next words to resonate.

"Liv, I get why you're scared, believe me, I do. But nothing is going to go wrong. You'll be coming home today, and I'll be there in just a few hours. Only one more dialysis session to get through as an inpatient, and then the rest will be done at the treatment center."

"I hear you, I do. It's just that everything feels so surreal. It almost seems like a dream."

Elliot longed for the ability to be able to reach through the phone and wrap his arms around Olivia, to envelop her in an embrace that would convey what he was feeling.

"The only thing I want you thinking about it is what you want me to make you for dinner later tonight. Take out is off the table for a little while longer yet, but I'm willing to whip up anything you request. I have a feeling that if I were to serve grilled chicken and steamed vegetables, you just might throw them at me."

"You're right about that, even if that is the safest option. Truth be told, I've been craving Chinese like crazy, no matter how much I know it's not on the approved list. I get that some of the sauces wouldn't be allowed, but maybe you could improvise a little? Come up with some sort of stir fry?"

Almost immediately, light bulbs starting going off in Elliot's head, and the wheels started turning. The ideas were already forming, but he wanted to find a few recipes before saying anything out loud.

"I think I can work with that. Let me research some recipes and see what I can come up with."

"Thanks, El. Also, I know today is going to be crazy busy. Don't feel obligated to come in, I can just call you for a ride if and when they do discharge me. Or get a cab."

There was a moment of silence as Elliot didn't speak a word, just stared directly at her, and Olivia knew from her partner's expression exactly what he was going to say. Yet again she reprimanded herself for having reverted back to old habits, and forgetting that the man in front of her was someone she could rely on – in more ways than one.

"Olivia Benson, tell me that you didn't just suggest that you would get a cab back to the new home we will be sharing together, and especially not after spending nearly two weeks in the hospital."

"Can we pretend that I didn't and write it off as my having not had my caffeine yet this morning?"

"We can. So long as you don't do it again."

"Deal."

True to his promise, Elliot changed the subject entirely, detailing his plans for the rest of the morning before coming to join his partner at the hospital. From the sound of things, by the time they made it back to the brownstone later today, they would both be long overdue for a much needed nap. It was on the tip of Olivia's tongue to apologize for her earlier request that Elliot cook her dinner, but she swallowed the impulse, knowing that not only would her partner not want to hear it, but also understanding that the option of takeout was not a reality at their disposal.

A small sound from the hallway diverted Olivia's attention away from the video call, but it was only the arrival of her breakfast tray. After making certain that Elliot could keep talking while she ate, and that she wasn't keeping him from something important, she started in on her morning meal, beginning with the coffee first. As it so happened, her partner was having a simple breakfast himself before heading out to start his errands, so it was nice to have the company in more ways than one.

Later that morning, while Olivia was in the middle of her final inpatient dialysis session, which seemed to be going infinitely slower than all others that had preceded it had ever taken, she was trying her best to remain sane. The only thing that even remotely helped was the reminder that not long after she returned to her room, Elliot would be arriving, despite her earlier attempts to dissuade him.

It was no surprise that she was a bundle of nerves and anxiety today of all days, practically waiting for a last minute snag or problem to arise and derail her long anticipated discharge. It didn't even matter that she still had many miles to travel before her road to recovery was complete, that leaving the hospital was only one step in the process. Getting to sleep in a real bed was something she had been looking forward to for some time. Having an actual shower was something else that would still have to wait, but for now, she would take what she could get.

So lost was she in her endless spiral of thoughts, that Olivia didn't even realize how much time had passed – at least, not until Marcy came over to disconnect her from the machine and wish her well. As eager as she was to leave the confines of the hospital walls, Olivia had to admit that there were people here she was going to miss, in particular the staff who had been so kind and attentive in their care of her.

Once back in her room, Olivia rushed her way through her morning routine, not out of a feeling of urgency, but rather to get it over with as quickly as possible. She wanted to get as many of her things together as she could before Elliot got there. She was well aware that her partner would gladly help, but she felt that she had imposed on his kindness far too much already. Also, her independent streak was demanding that she at least do something on behalf of herself, even if it was as simple as packing her own bag.

She had just completed her task, hoping that she hadn't jinxed herself in the process when the sound of approaching footsteps could be heard in the hall. Olivia realized it was still too early for any of her doctors, so she reasoned it must be Elliot. A moment later, the tell tale aroma of gourmet coffee reached her nostrils seconds before her partner appeared.

"Hey, Liv."

"Hey, yourself. I know what I tried to tell you earlier, but I'm so glad you're here. My nerves are really getting the better of me."

Stepping closer, Elliot didn't hesitate to place the cardboard drink carrier he was holding down on the bedside tray and envelop the clearly distressed woman in front of him in a hug.

"It's going to be okay. I have no doubt that a million things are running through your mind right now, but you don't have to face any of it alone."

"I know, and I'm so grateful to you for that."

If Elliot was curious as to why his partner was on her feet, he made no mention of it. Instead, the two settled into what had become their respective seats over recent weeks, and he passed a paper cup into her hands. She accepted it carefully, mindful of the hot contents contained within.

"I don't know if I necessarily need the caffeine, I'm wired enough as it is, but it smells so good, I can't resist."

"Already one step ahead of you, Liv. While I know you would likely throw it at me if I went to the completely opposite extreme and opted for the decaf, I did choose the half-caf for you today. So it has a little bit less than the usual."

For all her anxiety, Olivia's smile was genuine.
"You do know me well. Thank you. I'm just so afraid something is going to happen, even though nothing has."

"I get that, I really do. If I'm being honest with you, I've been on pins and needles, too. I think we both just want everything to go right. But, in the meantime, how can I help keep you distracted?"

That was easy. Olivia wanted to hear more about what awaited her. While she had seen plenty about her new home in pictures and in the video tour, she hadn't yet set foot inside the brownstone walls in person.

"The furniture has all been delivered and set up. I know you'll still want to decorate and arrange your room, although I've done my best with the instructions you've already given. Kathleen stopped by yesterday, and made sure that the bedding has been washed and put on the new mattresses, so that is all prepared as well."

Elliot paused to take a sip of his coffee, before continuing to explain that his two eldest daughters have even taken care of some grocery shopping at his request, so even the fridge and pantry were fully stocked.

"Remind me to thank them."

The pair lapsed into a companionable silence, with Olivia feeling considerably more at ease than she had been when Elliot initially arrived. She marveled at how her partner's ability to calm her with the simplest of words or gestures. However, just when things seemed to be going so well, she felt her breathing quicken yet again and when not just one, but two individuals appeared in her room, Olivia reflexively reached for Elliot's hand, holding on tight. Together the partners faced not just Dr. Campbell, but Dr. Abrhams as well, as the two physicians had arrived jointly to impart Olivia's fate.

Even though it was understandable why Olivia would be the most anxious, Elliot was clinging to his partner's hand with equal fervor, his own heart beating in a staccato rhythm he was certain matched that of the woman sitting beside him. But he willed himself to remain strong and steady, issuing the internal reminder that the last thing Olivia needed was for him to fall apart.

It was obvious that both of the Detectives were waiting impatiently, in particular Olivia, something that each of the doctors inherently understood given the circumstances. Not wanting to make either person in the room any more on edge than they already were, after exchanging a quick glance, it was Dr. Abrhams who spoke first.

"As you already know, you've been medically cleared in terms of how you are doing as far as your cardiac condition. You're still going to need to be monitored regularly for some time, and Dr. Campbell and her associates will have you on medication until they determine that is no longer necessary."

At the partners' simultaneous terse nod of confirmation, Dr. Abrhams continued.

"But I know that isn't what you've been wanting to hear. While you are still considered to be in acute kidney failure, your numbers have improved drastically throughout the course of your hospital stay. So much so, that I am confident you will continue to progress better with treatment at an outpatient dialysis facility and staying in the comfort of your own home."

No matter how much she had promised herself that she wouldn't, Olivia was unable to keep the tears of joy and relief at bay, and several began to slip their way down her cheeks. She felt as Elliot moved closer, enveloping her in an embrace as his arms wrapped around her and his lips grazed her temple. She was also aware of the sensation of saltwater falling from his eyes as well, and knew his emotions matched hers. It was only when sound registered to her ears that Olivia realized that Dr. Abrhams was still speaking.

"Now, as much as we know that you'd love to leave immediately, there is still some red tape that we need to clear up before your discharge will be complete. What I can promise is we will do our best to get everything processed as quickly as possible, and try and get you out of here as soon as we can."

With his partner still rendered temporarily mute, Elliot spoke on behalf of them both.

"Thank you. For everything."

Only once they were on their own again, did Olivia dare to voice the words that had been caught in her throat.

"El, did I hear him correctly? Do I really get to go home?"

"It's true, Liv. By tonight, you'll be sleeping in your new bed. Also, just as promised, I'm making you dinner later."

"I can't wait."

Although she hadn't said anything, Elliot knew exactly what else was weighing on his partner's mind. In truth, he had been thinking about it, too – wondering just how slowly these next few hours would crawl by, especially now that they were in the home stretch. Thinking quickly, he tried to find a way to help pass the time more quickly, and while it was a familiar tactic of distraction, he hoped it would still work.

"Did you want to watch something, Liv? Or perhaps play some cards?"

"I know what you're doing, and while I love you for it, I'm not so sure it's going to work. My head is all over the place. I don't think I could concentrate on anything at the moment. I won't say no to a walk through the halls, though. Maybe that will help me get rid of some of this nervous energy."

With a smile, Elliot got to his feet and offered his hand.

"You've got it."

The two made their way out into the familiar corridor, and it dawned on Olivia that very soon, she would be able to walk to city streets near her new home. While a workout at the gym might still be a bit too much for her body to handle – at least until she got her strength back – she could at least build back her stamina bit by bit gradually. With all the extra space they had at the brownstone, she might even be able to look into turning one of the rooms into an at home workout space, likely a feature that would spark her partner's interest as well.

"That sounds like a great idea."

Aware that she had voiced that particular internal thought out loud, Olivia turned to face the man walking in step beside her.

"Maybe when we get back to the room, we can look at few items. Nothing fancy, but I'm sure you'd like a weight bench, and since it's going to take me some time, I wouldn't mind either a stationary bike or perhaps a treadmill."

"I like the way you think. I figure the lower level would be a perfect space for what we're planning. We've got the laundry room and one bathroom down there already, so we can easily incorporate a space to change when we're done working out."

"Now who's the one with great ideas?"

Olivia faltered in her steps, prompting Elliot to reach out a hand to steady her. The concern was evident in his expression, but it was also immediately clear that nothing was inherently wrong. Even so, that didn't dissuade the brunette from offering reassurance. It was as though she were terrified of anything that could potentially delay her promised release.

"I'm fine, El. If anything, I think I'm dozing off on my feet. I didn't sleep very well last night, most likely because I was so anxious about today. But please don't suggest that I get some rest, because I don't think I'd be able to if I tried. I promise though, I will take a nap as soon as we get home."

"Deal."

As it so happened, the time waiting actually passed rather quickly, and before Olivia even realized what was happening, a nurse was in her room giving her the papers to sign authorizing her release from the hospital. Once everything was official, Elliot grabbed her bags, promising he would take them to the car and meet her out front for the ride home. From that point on, everything took on a very surreal quality for Olivia. She knew the reality that was taking place wasn't a dream, but it certainly felt like one. More than once, she had to resist the urge to pinch herself in an attempt to convince her brain that she was actually awake and not stuck in one of the many dreams she had encountered throughout her stay.

She wasn't happy about the fact that a wheelchair was necessary to transport her to the exit, but Olivia wasn't about to argue, not when she was this close to freedom. The more she considered it, the last thing she needed now was to have a fall and wind up having to extend her stay even longer. No matter that she had spent her more recent days walking the halls, there were still times when she was a bit unsteady on her feet.

Just as promised, Elliot had his SUV idling in the patient pickup and drop off zone when Olivia and her escort reached the first floor. It felt a bit strange to feel fresh air on her face for the first time in days, but Olivia welcomed the sensation. Even with all the pollution in the New York City atmosphere, it beat the stale recycled hospital environment that she been breathing in for the better part of the last two weeks.

After thanking the aide who had brought her to the car, and allowing her partner to help her get settled, Olivia relaxed back into the passenger seat. It took a moment to remind herself that she would not be returning to her old apartment, but instead going to a new home. The feeling was a bit bittersweet, however, it was a positive step forward knowing new and better memories would be made.

"Did you need me to stop anywhere for anything, Liv? Where there any prescriptions that you are going to need?"

"Yes, actually. There are a few, I had them send them into the pharmacy near our new place, but I'm still not sure when it's going to be ready. It might be better to wait and see, perhaps they can even deliver it later."

"No problem. Is there anything else?"

After Olivia's reply in the negative, Elliot turned the car toward the direction of the brownstone, and the partners lapsed into an easy conversation. Thankfully, the travel time was short, and traffic was light, so they arrived at their destination within twenty minutes. Despite Olivia's insistence that she was able to help, Elliot was the one to carry everything. He wanted his partner to be able to take it all in the first time she set foot inside her new home.

Even though she had seen both pictures and live video, neither of them had done the place justice. Olivia was in absolute awe as she looked around, taking the place in. If she had to describe it in a single word, and she didn't use the it often, she'd have to say it was perfect. When she was little, she used to dream of a home like this one, and now it was actually hers. To make it ten times better, she got to share it with her partner and best friend – someone who could potentially become so much more. Not to mention, Calvin would be a big part of her life here as well.

Not even aware she was crying until Elliot came up to embrace her and she heard the concern in voice asking if she was all right, Olivia was quick to reassure.

"I'm fine. And I mean it this time, El. Maybe a little overwhelmed emotionally, but in a positive way, I promise."

One look in his partner's eyes, and Elliot knew that Olivia was telling the truth. Relieved, and reminding himself that he would have to lower his guard somewhat and not always be on such high alert, he allowed himself to relax.

"Did you want anything to eat, or are you still full from lunch?"

"I'm not hungry, but thanks. There is plenty more I want to explore around the place, but for now I think I just want to take a nap in a real bed."

Once again, their innate connection had found them on the same wavelength. Olivia had read his mind before he had even had to ask the question.

"I can show you where your room is, if you want."

"I'd like that."

Grabbing the bag containing Olivia's more personal effects, Elliot led the way. His partner's room was on the first floor, as he had given her the master bedroom. This way, she had not only an adequate amount of space, but also a private bath all to herself. However, his room on the second floor was a dedicated guest suite, which also featured a private bath, so it was a fair exchange. One day, he hoped they would share not only a room, but also a bed, but considering he had yet to take Olivia out on an official date yet, that was still some time in the future.

"Here you go. I'll have you know that while Fin, and I may have done the furniture aspect of your private sanctuary, it was Katie and Maureen who handled your more personal items. I wanted to respect that you might prefer having women take care of that, and I'll have you know that my daughters also yelled at me about that, too."

Laughing, Olivia rested her hand on Elliot's shoulder.

"I'm sure they did. Thank you, El. For everything."

"There is nothing to thank me for, but you're welcome. You'd have done the same for me."

The pair remained quiet for a few moments, just quietly staring into one another's eyes. Eventually it was Elliot who broke the silence, clearing his throat.

"I'll let you get some rest. Sleep as long as you need to. If you don't mind, I'll check in with the pharmacy about those meds of yours, and when you wake up, I can make that dinner for you, too. Don't forget, I'm making that Chinese you requested."

"Sounds great. I can't wait."

When Olivia woke a few hours later, she discovered quite a few things. The first being this was the most restful sleep that she'd had ages. The second was a bit more concerning, as it was accompanied by a feeling of disorientation. The absence of the smell of antiseptic and industrial strength cleaners were enough to deduce that was no longer in the hospital, but her surroundings were not easily recognized. There was something about the room and the furniture around her that had an air of familiarity to it, but she still couldn't quite place it. So, when Olivia heard the sound of approaching footsteps, she was obviously apprehensive – until she was immediately able to place the cadence of those particular footfalls. They belonged her partner, and suddenly all the missing pieces fell into place. By the time Elliot's knuckles rapped on her closed door, the world made sense to Olivia once more.

"Come in, El."

Even though he had been granted permission, Elliot still cracked the door open cautiously, poking his had inside first as though testing to see if everything were truly all right before entering the room completely.

"Hey. I hope I didn't disturb you. I was planning to let you sleep as long as possible, but I guess I just wanted to check on you. You must have totally crashed out as soon as your head hit the pillow, because I haven't heard a peep out of you in over four hours."

Incredulous, Olivia grabbed her phone, checking the display wide eyed to confirm that her partner's declaration was indeed the truth. It was on the tip of her tongue to apologize, but she knew that wasn't what Elliot was wanting to hear, and it likely would also get a her lecture, too. So she quickly changed course, instead switching to a different subject and hoping that he wouldn't notice.

"You're right about that. I was just thinking before you knocked that this was the best sleep I've had in ages. I know I chose my own furniture, and gave what input I could when it came to the mattress, but whoever made the ultimate choice did a damn good job."

"As much as I'd love to claim credit, that is owed to Maureen and Katie. Although Fin and Munch wanted it to be made known how much they helped when it came to manual labor."

Laughing, Olivia tossed back the covers and eased herself out of bed. She was well aware that Elliot was standing close by as he always did, but just as she did when he had helped her get settled in here earlier, she chose not to comment. After all, given everything she had been through – and was still battling – she really couldn't phrase his actions as hovering, but instead, concern. If their positions were reversed, she suspects she would be treating him exactly the same.

"What I wouldn't give for a shower. I saw the bathroom before I got into bed earlier, it looks amazing. The photos and video tour the realtor gave us didn't do it justice at all."

" I know, Liv. Just hang in there a little bit longer. You've made it through the worst of it. Your numbers are already improving so much. I promise you, as soon as you're in the clear, you can take the world's longest shower and I won't even complain about the water bill."

Knowing that her partner was only teasing – even if she racked up the largest bill he'd ever seen, he still wouldn't complain – she still appreciated what he had said. Before she could comment, however, her stomach made a rather loud interjection.

"I guess this means I need to feed you."

"Do you need any help in the kitchen?"

"Not that I don't appreciate the offer, but today I just want you to rest and let me pamper you a little by cooking you dinner. However, in the future, I'd love the idea of making some meals together."

"Noted."

After making sure Olivia was comfortable in the living room, and promising to return shortly so they could enjoy their evening meal while relaxing in front of the television, Elliot headed into the kitchen to start preparing dinner. He had used his time wisely during his partner's nap earlier, studying the recipes he had procured from the renal health website, and ordering in the necessary groceries to make not just one, but two of Olivia's favorite Chinese food dishes. They wouldn't be exact, but he hoped he could do them justice. He had even found a nearby Asian grocer and found a small box of fortune cookies to complete their meal.

The one shortcut he was taking, which also included an impulse purchase for their new home, was using a rice cooker to help him prepare the steamed rice that he would then convert into fried rice. While Kathy had always handled the lion's share of the duties in the kitchen during their marriage, he had managed quite well during their first separation, and again since the second time and ultimate divorce. However, mastering rice was the one skill he had never managed to learn completely, and no matter how long he cooked it, it was always still on the toothsome side. At least this way, it would take out the guesswork.

Having already steamed the rice earlier in the day during Olivia's nap, all that was necessary now was to transform the grain into the fried rice version. Considering that would take the least amount of time, Elliot opted to save that dish until last. His next steps would be tackling the two main courses – the sweet and sour chicken, as well as the beef and broccoli.

Despite his insistence that she stay in the living room and relax, Elliot was still in the middle of dinner preparations when Olivia wandered into the kitchen. To be fair, he couldn't say he blamed her. He could hardly fault his partner her newfound freedom to wander wherever she pleased, especially when it came to a home that was as unfamiliar to her as it was to him. He likely would have been finished with making the food by now, had he not spent so much time searching for items and trying to figure out where all their well meaning helpers had stored things. It was definitely going to take them some time to make this space their own, but until then, he was going to be grateful for all the help they had received.

"I know, you wanted me to rest. But everything just smelled so good, I had to come and see what you were up to. Plus, given all the noises I could hear filtering out of the kitchen, I'm guessing your just as out of sorts finding your way around this place as I am."

"You know me too well, Liv."

Olivia walked over to where Elliot stood near the stove. With an impish grin, she reached out her hand and pinched a chunk of pineapple from the bowl on the cutting board between two fingers, popping it into her mouth. As she chewed, a thoughtful expression crossed her features.

"After I've had some time to acclimate, what do you say we tackle this place room by room – as my energy reserves can handle, of course – and make this place our own?"

"You've read my mind yet again."

As the brunette extended her hand for her third piece of pineapple in as many minutes, Elliot lightly wrapped her knuckles with the silicone spatula he was using to stir the ingredients already in the skillet.

"You know I'd never fault you for having a healthy appetite, far from it, but if you keep eating that, there won't be any left to add to our sweet and sour chicken. If it's something that you're enjoying, I'll get more tomorrow, I promise."

Olivia considered that for a moment, still adjusting to how many changes her body had undergone yet again in just a short period of time. She certainly wasn't complaining about the return of her cravings for food and healthier habits, but it still wasn't as easy to keep her guard down and let someone else take care of her. Even so, this was Elliot, a man she knew she could always trust above all others.

"I'd like that."

As Elliot added the finishing touches to what he had going on the stove, he couldn't help noticing out of the corner of his eye the way his partner was fidgeting. Resisting the urge to chuckle at her impatience, he decided to give her a task.

"Tell you what, Liv. This is almost ready. Why don't you grab us some drinks and take them into the living room, and I'll meet you in there with the food in just a few minutes?"

"Sounds good to me. What did you want?"

"I made some of that lemonade you like earlier. Or if you prefer, I put a pitcher of cold water in the fridge as well. I know how much you hate having to drink the room temperature stuff."

"Thanks, El. But you still didn't answer my question. What did you want to drink?"

Had anyone else asked him the question, Elliot would have been surprised. But this was Olivia, so of course, she would be more concerned about his needs only mere hours after having been discharged from the hospital. Granted, it was only something as simple as a choice of beverage, but even given everything she had been through, her character had not changed at all.

"Just some iced tea for now, please."

"You've got it."

By the time Elliot came into the living room, a plate in each hand, Olivia had just gotten herself settled again, one foot tucked under her other leg. The drinks she had brought in had been placed on the coffee table in front of the couch, and she had even thought ahead and brought in a roll of paper towels, too.

"Like I said in the kitchen, El, this looks and smells amazing. When I requested Chinese for dinner, I wasn't expecting you to make two different things. Not to mention fried rice to boot."

"You've been eating hospital food for long enough, Liv. I went with what I know your favorites are. I couldn't quite manage the sesame chicken or the lo mein, there weren't renal diet versions of those, but I improvised where I could. I did, however, get us some fortune cookies for our dessert, however, because it's not a night of Chinese food with my partner without them."

In a not so subtle attempt to hide the struggle she was having with her emotions, Olivia took a bite of the food on her plate, starting with the beef and broccoli. While she chewed, she used that time to tamp down the tears that threatened to fall, and reminded herself that it was okay to allow herself to be loved. That she and Elliot were starting to venture into something new, and she didn't have brave the world alone anymore.

"I don't know where you found these recipes, but this tastes fantastic. If you hadn't told me, I would have guessed you had ordered takeout."

Elliot's heart swelled at the compliment. It was high praise indeed, and knowing that his efforts were appreciated made everything worth it. Not that it had been a difficult task – he'd do anything for his partner, but as this was the first meal he had cooked for her in their new home, he had wanted everything to be perfect. Passing over the remote to the woman seated by his side, he propped up his feet on the coffee table and made himself comfortable as he, too, began to eat his dinner.

"Another special treat for you Liv, you get control of the remote tonight."

"You asshole."

Never before had those words been said to him with as much affection as the way Olivia had just uttered them. The two shared a grin, then tuned into one of the shows they had started watching together previously. Easily finding their way into what they both hoped would become a routine, the partners began their first of many nights in their new home.