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@poppadom0912
Poppadom's Blog
Hello! Welcome to my blog.
I'm just a normal mentally unstable girl who writes about her obsessions to cope. I love the one chicago series, f1 and all things literature.
My requests are open. I take almost everything One Chicago and may be venturing out further in the near future.
Under the cut is my Masterlist. Enjoy!
Jay Halstead x Reader
Will Halstead x Reader
Connor Rhodes x Reader
Kelly Severide x Reader
Matt Casey x Reader
Antonio Dawson x Reader
Halstead!Sibling Reader
Rhodes!Sibling Reader
Severide!Sibling Reader
Daughter!Reader
Platonic!Reader
what, like it's hard?
Warnings: Brief mentions of crimes, court/legal system, intelligence-typical things, canon-typical injuries
Summary: 5 times intelligence noticed yours and Jay's 'friendship' and 1 time they figured it all out.
A/N: Final assignment submitted and I just realised I haven't written in a little bit so here you guys go! This thought came to me so suddenly and randomly, please don't question it. I have no idea about anything surrounding law so please don't mind any mistakes. I haven't written for Jay in a while and I wrote 4k words soooooo I hope you all enjoy!!
1.
Kim hadn't been working in Intelligence long till she met you.
She had known most of the guys up in Intelligence, but she never stuck around long enough to bump into you. It wasn't until Intelligence was being summoned to be witnesses in a court trial that she even heard of your name.
It was as if you sensed the peaceful lull they luckily found themselves in after suffering the past almost month with back-to-back cases. Without any escorting, you ever so casually strolled into the bullpen, heels sharp as ever as the sound reverberated through the previously silent upstairs.
The reaction was decently mixed. The general consensus seemed to be that they were happy to see you with one sigh and someone mumbling incoherently under their breath.
Face brightening, Erin got up from her seat and offered you a one-armed hug.
"Y/N! It's been so long, you here for the Whiteman case?"
"Hey guys, yeah unfortunately. My boss has got us working overtime trying to nail this guy." Your voice was soft and soothing, firm with enough authority that Kim could already tell you easily commandeered every room you walked into. "I'm here to go over your guys' statements and any questions you might be asked on the stand, just the usual stuff."
As you spoke, your eyes trailed over everyone, all their focuses homed in on you, but your journey seemingly stopped on a very specific green-eyed man who was trying his best to not flush under your eyes that all of a sudden felt all too leering.
Smirking, your lipstick covered lips perking ever so perfectly, you looked away first and addressed Erin. "Why don't we start with you since from what I've read, you were the most personally involved."
Humming in assent, Antonio moved to let you station yourself at his desk, stopping to lean against Jay's desk, the latter's eyes still firmly glued to you, or more specifically, your figure that was donning a fitted blazer and pencil skirt.
"Why don't you do anything about it?" Antonio murmured, amusement clear in his tone as he watched the younger man flush and force his eyes up towards your face, but his pale skin wasn't helping him a single bit.
Antonio was one of the few who witnessed the first time Jay had met you and now, several years later, he was pleasantly surprised to see both of you remained blissfully single.
He was slowly starting to get sick of Halstead's pining and he was worried he'd lose out on the money he put in years ago. It was high enough now that he could pay off a decent chunk of Eva's eventual college tuition.
Clearing his throat, Jay dragged a hand down his face, physically having to turn his chair around to face his computer in the opposite direction to his biggest distraction.
"Stop talking Antonio and quit slacking, you're up next."
If Kim wasn't so focused on the questions you were asking, she would've noticed the familiar and longing look you and Jay exchanged from across the room.
2.
Following your first meeting, Kim had the pleasure of not only seeing you several more times but also getting to know you on a more personal level.
Outside of the job, you were so sweet and lovely that it was almost cavity inducing. A few drinks at Molly's and they uncovered a giggly and surprisingly cuddly you who, unfortunately for them, kept secrets sealed as tight as fort knox.
You were a decent cook but an excellent baker when time permitted it and to say you weren't struggling with money would be an understatement.
Several times she had seen you in court with immaculate pant suits and stupidly expensive heels which followed you outside in your day-to-day life. It was safe to say that she didn't blink an eye when you casually strolled into work one day with a Birkin like it wasn't the most expensive thing to ever be in any of their proximities.
The familiar rhythm of your heels click-clacking brought her out of her stupor. She turned and found herself rolling her eyes at how the other lawyers’ eyes were drawn to the hypnotic swaying of your hips as you strode down the hallway.
"Mr Sinclair, I see you're still representing all the scum of the earth."
Damn, not even a hello.
Said man stammered, straightening up his tie as he tried getting himself together but failed to do so in time.
"Why don't we talk in private, just you and me, I'm sure we can come to some sort of agreement."
Without waiting for a reply from him, you smiled, lips painted so perfectly Kim was able to admit she was jealous and wanted to know your ways, you side-stepped the man but before you could leave, you shoved your Birkin into Jay's chest, his hands frantically trying to keep hold of it.
Acting like that hadn't just happened, you confidently walked away, not batting a single perfectly curled eyelash to see if the other lawyer was following or if Jay had caught one of the pride and joys of your life.
Pretending like Kim hadn't just watched him be a small disaster that he usually never was unless it involved you and you only, Jay exhaled loudly, his face reading that he was disturbed and wanted to be doing literally anything else, but his actions spoke for themselves.
He kept a firm hold of your bag, his arms keeping such a secure hold that one would think the bag contained the world's most precious jewels.
Kim was now more than well-versed in the flirty relationship between you and Jay that you both vaguely swore, separately, that you weren't going to ask the other out.
During the few times she saw you and Jay in the same room together, she was forced to witness the blushing disaster that the detective would become every single time he lay eyes on you, but he was still as sharp-tongued as usual, but his words were laced with a softness only a select few were graced with.
She was forced to suffer your casual banter and flirty quips, both of your shared physical attraction for the other and how easily Jay folded the second you opened your mouth.
Kim had never put money into a betting pool quicker than she did after watching you and Jay interact on three separate occasions.
Wiggling her brows at him, a suggestive smirk making the man swallow a scoff, he rolled his eyes and walked into the bullpen, your Birkin still held preciously in his arms, only letting go once he got to his desk, gently setting it down beside a stack of files as if he knew exactly how much care to handle it with.
Kim tried not to think too much into how practised his moves were, handling a ridiculously expensive bag as if this were just another day when his wages were very indicative of the life he was living and considering of what she knew of his childhood living circumstances, he never would've even thought of such expensive notions even existing.
Much food for thought but before Kim could make a sly comment, Mr Sinclair came storming back, face red and smoke billowing out his ears as he went towards were his client was detained.
Your relaxed demeanour and satisfied smile told them everything they needed to know.
3.
The next time Kim saw you, it was under circumstances she wished they could have avoided.
The call came to Jay on his personal phone, apparently Will called him saying he needed to come to Med with very few words and Jay was already out the bullpen before he hung up the phone.
Following after him upon Voight's command, Kim barely kept up and felt a sense of dread and anxiety when he gave her the rundown.
It seemed that they got to Med in record time and Kim found herself trying to keep up with Jay who was speed walking faster than she'd ever seen him.
Following Will's directions to the correct treatment room, Kim felt her shoulders lose some of its built-up tension at the lack of a horrible disaster.
You definitely looked worse for wear. Your hair mused and lacking its usual sleekness, blood already coagulating at your temples and the dirt was made more apparent due to the red dress you were wearing.
Despite the circumstances, you still looked smoking hot and Kim found herself internally cursing you out for being effortlessly gorgeous, she was slightly jealous that you still pulled off being a mess.
"What happened?"
Jay had also become less tense, but his concern was still strong, eyes roaming over your body and zeroing in on the gauze you were holding at your bicep.
"Drunk guy was trying to get handsy with Emily." Kim recognised the name to be one of your college friends. "She pushed him away and when his friends tried getting involved, obviously we had to get involved."
Definitely not a nightmare but not an ideal situation either.
Continuing to look you over, keeping an ear out as you resumed your story, Kim quickly backed up and looked back up to your hand.
Looking at the other woman whose mouth was agape, you followed her line of sight and couldn't help yourself when you giggled.
Wiggling your fingers, you softly smiled down and let Kim look closer.
"When did you get engaged!?"
Unable to keep down your biggest smile, you found yourself feeling giddy, the same warm butterflies every time you told someone about your engagement.
"Last week, that's why me and my friends were out today, we were celebrating my engagement and my promotion."
Kim nodded, a soft ooh before whistling at the rock casually adorning your finger.
"Oh yeah, Jay told us a few weeks ago about the promotion, deputy district attorney is amazing! Congratulations, on both things."
Giggling again, you breathlessly thanked the brunette woman, your eyes slyly looking at the only man in the room with you.
Only when they finished tying up any and all loose ties with you did they leave and only once they got back in Jay's truck did Kim say anything.
"You didn't look that surprised when she said she's engaged."
Jay remained quiet, eyes forward on the road and both hands on the wheel.
He hummed, "I already knew."
Kim tried not to feel too bad, stuck between her elation for her friend’s engagement and her sympathy for her other friend who she knew had feelings for you.
"You know her fiancé then?"
Jay just hummed again, a slight twitch in his eyebrows but he didn't look as bothered or as disappointed as she would've thought.
The truck remained silent, both Jay and Kim ruminating in their thoughts.
Just as the light turned green, it suddenly hit her.
No one won the bet, none of them even thought of this turning out to be a possibility.
Damn, what were the going to do with all that money now?
4.
When Jay got shot, no one even pretended to act too surprised.
Obviously, they were shocked for all of two minutes before the man himself insisted one of them drove him to Med and he'd convince Will to check him out and he'd be back to work in no time.
Kim just so happened to draw the short straw, being the last one to say, 'not it' and touch her nose. She claims to have been distracted by her phone which everyone knew was safely tucked into her pocket.
Unsurprisingly, Will made a big fuss. Concerned alongside his brotherly annoyance, at times being purposely harsh just to get back at Jay for getting hurt excessively.
Wrapping up his wounds, Will roughly summarised what he should be doing going forward and how long he should be off work before he looked at his injured brother pointedly.
"And make sure you tell her otherwise I will, and trust me, it won't be pretty."
If they weren't brothers and Kim wasn't used to their banter, she would've thought he was threatening him, but when she turned to look at Jay, his split-second reaction made it seem that it was not just a joke but a genuine threat.
Seeing that Jay needed a moment alone to make a phone call, she excused herself to call Voight and update him on Jay's wellbeing.
She tried to waste some time after hanging up by catching up with Maggie and getting a drink from the vending machine but quickly found herself bored and walking back to Jay's treatment room to see if he was ready to leave.
"I promise you don't have to fly back. I can wait but your work in New York can't."
Jay's tone was placating and a lot softer than she was used to hearing from him.
"Yes, I promise it isn't too bad, you can even call Will and ask... Yes, I even promise to take it easy this time."
Woah, Kim wasn't even sure if 'taking it easy' were words in Jay's vocabulary.
If not for the sudden screeching of an ambulance and the rush of noise from paramedics loudly announcing vitals and medical staff zooming past her, she would've heard Jay exchange i love yous with the mysterious woman over the phone.
Once the group moved away and she heard Jay's conversation finish, she stood in the doorway of his treatment room, knocking on the glass to get his attention.
"Ready to go?"
Wordlessly nodding, Jay rose with ease and followed her, waving to Will and walking out the ED without any effort that it seemed like he wasn't shot thirty minutes ago.
"Who was that on the phone?" Kim couldn't help herself, curiosity getting the best of her.
"Y/N" Jay replied, looking nonplussed by her question.
Oh, Kim was so sure he had been talking to a potential girlfriend when he was really just talking to you.
If Kim wasn't then swept up away in Adam calling her, saying they were needed back, resulting in her rushing to drive Jay home and then speed back to work, she would've connected the dots that you also were in New York for a high-profile lawsuit.
5.
When Jay randomly announced he booked off work, time stood still. Everyone thought they were hearing things, experiencing a group hallucination in real time or they were all going crazy at the end of their shift, but Jay clarified that they had indeed, heard correctly.
Not only was he taking time off work for the first time since they all knew him that wasn't just to recover from on-the-job injuries, but he was taking two weeks off and he wasn't elaborating any further.
When Kim asked if you knew considering how close you were, he simply said 'yeah, she knows.'
You also were out of state, having flown back home to get married because you and your soon-to-be husband in two days wanted to get married with all your family present since he, apparently, had a very, very small family.
When they all couldn't get off work to attend, Kim was so assured Jay would be attending your wedding but with this new announcement, she wasn't sure what to think.
Obviously, he got an invitation, all of Intelligence did, but why did it now seem like he was purposefully going out of town to not go?
Maybe Kim was just thinking too much into it.
Finishing their shift together, everyone sent Jay their well wishes and hoped for a good flight before he drove off.
For the next two weeks, no one heard from him and none of them really tried to check in much. The man deserved some time to de-stress and relax without any reminders of Chicago or work.
When he Jay came back, Kim wasn't even trying to be dramatic, but he was glowing.
There was a tan that indicated he went somewhere warm, his body loose and relaxed in a way that showed he truly let go during his holiday and it was comforting to know he had been able to enjoy himself and his smile was warm and full of life that was usually drained out of all of them, their work draining them all of said life.
He looked rejuvenated in a way that made Kim strongly consider taking time off herself and get out of Chicago.
Jay remained secretive of where he went and what he got up to, but his smile was very telling. They could all tell he thoroughly enjoyed himself. If not for that, they all would've poked him harder.
Over the next week, they all got lost in the cycle that was their lives, constant home then work, work then home and it was somewhere in-between that Kim got some intel on your wedding.
Mikayla was sleeping and all the chores had been done, giving Kim a rare moment of pure relaxation. So she had a show running, a mask on her face while she indulged in at least thirty minutes of scrolling on her phone.
When she found herself getting bored of instagram, she quickly refreshed it but before she could exit the app, she was met with a few new posts from you.
Pleasantly surprised, Kim looked at the first picture and your caption and smiled instantly.
Swiping through the pictures, she saw behind the scenes of you and people she could tell were family just from how similar you all looked, and multiple moments from the wedding and the reception.
You looked stunning in your dress and the picture of yours and your husbands ring clad hands made her jaw drop because with the professional camera, your ring looked even more expensive than usual.
Hearting both your posts of your wedding, she scrolled to the final post and her jaw immediately dropped.
You had posted a dump of your weeklong honeymoon, and the first picture was you posing on the beach. You looked so sexy in your beachwear Kim was more jealous than usual, her envy directed mostly at your new husband.
Swiping through, her smile remained as she looked through each picture of the scenery, the food and yourself. It was clear that most the images of you were taken by your husband but there weren't many of him.
There was the occasional show of his hand and the lower half of his body and Kim quickly swiped to the next picture when she got to the one of his glistening half-naked torso.
Hearting your final post, she went to leave comments on all of your posts, her comment filled with congratulations and love and compliments joined the ranks of all your friends and families.
If not for the see of comments she didn't even bother navigating, she would have noticed the comments Jay left behind, his words not one from a friend and the hearts definitely not platonic.
+1
The only reason Kim liked coming to court was because it meant that she wasn't really working. It was always during work hours, but they barely did any actual work, it was so minimal it was sort of like a day off.
The case that Intelligence was part of was happening in over an hour and you had asked them all to come into your office beforehand.
Since you got promoted, you didn't do as much work with them as you used to but because of the severity of their case, you gladly took it on.
It had been two years since you got married and due to how busy their lives were, both in and outside of work, they never got around to meeting your husband.
In the few times they did see you at work, you always laughed it off when any of them complained and it seemed that despite being married and the possible girlfriend Jay had, your relationship dynamic hadn't changed.
Kim didn't want to think about it too much otherwise she'd feel some unsavoury emotions that she really didn't want to face, neither did she want to confront either of her friends.
Entering your office, the room the exact same to how it was the last time Kim was here, she realised you were nowhere to be seen.
"Where is she?"
As if being summoned, you appeared behind them in the doorway and if not for being seasoned officers of the law, they all would've jumped, well, Adam did but that's beside the point.
"Hey, you guys made it just in time! So sorry if you were waiting long, I was just in the restroom. There's some last-minute things I want to go over that I didn't get to last time. Klein's lawyer submitted some evidence, and I just want some clarification."
You spoke as they all stepped aside, allowing you to make your way to your desk that was the definition of an organised mess.
Your heels thudded against the carpet, the bottoms red and the heels still ever so high. Your trousers had not a single crease, the legs were wide at the bottom, but they fit you perfectly. Your blazer sat on the back of your chair and your shirt wasn't the usual style she was used to seeing you wear.
It was long-sleeved and a little bit bigger, it was tied in a neat bow around your stoma-
Your stomach was round.
It wasn't too noticeable, but when you turned sideways to pick up a different folder, she could see your stomach was rounder. In fact, the way your shirt was tied, it was all clicking into place, the shirt suspiciously similar to maternity clothes.
Kim tried to focus on what you were saying but found herself unable to look away. It felt rude to ask because it could just be that you gained weight, it happened to everyone! And the last thing she wanted was to offend you or distract anyone before they were due to be in court for a case that had to go their way.
And so Kim bit her tongue, exchanges looks with Adam when she realised he had also seen what she saw but said man just shook his head frantically.
On their way to the courtroom, Kim overheard a fraction of your conversation with Jay.
"It was just my morning sickness but it's definitely better than the first trimester-"
After hearing that, she decided to block out the rest of your conversation and zero in on what Adam was saying to Kevin.
In the courtroom, you were your usual confident self. After the first round of questioning, you had unbuttoned your blazer and took it off, placing it on the empty chair besides you and no one but the opposing sides lawyer batted an eye.
The lawyer seemed stunned, steps to the stand faltering before he quickly recovered and went back like nothing had happened.
Apparently he hadn't seen many pregnant lawyers in court or maybe he hadn't expected that you, of all the lawyers he knew, would be pregnant.
Recess was quick and the verdict even quicker.
Smiling, more than satisfied with the sentencing the judge determined, you packed up your things and smugly shook the other lawyer’s hands before striding off, the sound of your heels lost in the now loud courtroom.
You walked up to Jay who took your blazer and draped it over his arm as the two of you walked out side by side, the gap between your shoulders basically non-existent and his hand only found the small of your back once you made it a few steps away from the doors.
Kim didn't have to think too hard for all the puzzle pieces over the years to all click perfectly into place.
Laughing to herself, she shook off Adam's questioning gaze as she watched the two of you walk away, your blazer on Jay's arm and your Birkin in his hand with your hand looped through his other arm.
You were the picturesque image on badass wife and completely smitten husband.
With your heels clicking off into the distance, Jay's small but clear as day adoring smile on his face as he listened to you talking his ear off, your words of ultrasound the last thing she heard as you both left the courthouse.
If Kim were a better person, she wouldn't be thinking of the betting pool that no one had been able to cash in on since your engagement almost four years ago.
But she wasn't a better person and now she somehow had to get in contact with Antonio. They were a little too late to pay for Eva's college tuition but maybe they could be for Diego’s.
you'll be in my heart, always
Warnings: Mentions of fires, canon-typical injuries, angst with a happy ending
Summary: Will never meant to keep his daughter a secret. This comes with some unintended consequences when a familiar face walks into the ED one day.
A/N: IM BACK BITCHESS. I'm very heavily procrastinating my assignments and I will probably regret that but who cares. I was very suddenly hit with inspiration to write this and I have to get the idea out before I lose it. It's been a minute since I wrote anything so bear with me and enjoy my favourite father daughter duo ;) title is from Phil Collins' 'you'll be in my heart'
Will loved being a doctor.
He truly did, he loved his job and he couldn't imagine himself anywhere else but in medicine. But his favourite job, the one he loved even more so, was being Faith's dad.
It was hard to put into words his love for his little girl, but it could best be described like his heart was walking outside his chest, exposed to all the wonders and dangers of the world.
Back in New York, all his co-workers knew about Faith. They'd been there when he randomly asked for leave and watched as he struggled to be a first time father to a newborn baby all alone. He never had to tell them, they found out by themselves quite easily and word spread like wildfire.
Doctors and nurses loved themselves some gossip, no matter the circumstances.
When Will moved back to Chicago, he never made the intention to keep Faith a secret.
He had just reconnected with Jay who was becoming acquainted with his niece and was loving his job as an Uncle. His younger brother loved her just as much as she loved him.
When he was interviewed for the position at Med, he had asked about the daycare the hospital had for its staff and the most he was asked about his child was their age and his situation.
There hadn't been any further mention of Faith beyond that and considering the mess of his first few shifts officially working in the ED, there was barely any time to get to know his new co-workers, let alone mention he has a daughter.
So, perhaps it was his fault that a year on, he still hadn't brought her up.
*****
The day was doomed from the start.
Faith had a horrible night. Constantly waking up and even when she slept in his bed, she was tossing and turning and neither of them got enough sleep which made their morning routine a nightmare, from the milk going bad to the shirt Faith wanted to wear being in the wash.
Will had to warn Allison, the babysitter who cared for Faith after school and on some weekends, that she was already in a bad mood and wouldn't be her happy-go-lucky self, most likely wanting to skip the library.
Getting to work, Will walked into the remnants of the chaos that was a pile-up and it was straight to work, barely any time to get settled before he was in the rush of the mess that was the ED.
It was accident after accident, major trauma after another that meant no one could take breaks and the frantic atmosphere of the emergency department was palpable.
Just as Will finished updating his final chart, mid-exhale, Maggie turned to face her staff with a grave look on her face, one that made them all raise their hackles, April aggressively finishing her protein bar before Maggie could say anything.
"Structure fire, some major injuries but majority are minor. It's exam season so we're going to be overloaded." Maggie studied the crowd of doctors and nurses with a grimness they were all too familiar with. "Dr Choi and Rhodes, I want you both on the major traumas, take four nurses with you. Dr Manning and Halstead on everything else, take Reese and Noah with you and Doris and Monique."
The sound of distant sirens caused everyone to stop, the silence heavy as everyone prepared themselves. "I know we're all tired and it's been a very long day but this is nothing we've not done before. Come find me or Dr Lannik for any assistance and Dr Charles is here all day and for the night shift too."
With one big clap, red and blue lights flashed from behind them and the brick in Maggie's hand started to buzz like crazy. "Dr Rhodes, this one's yours!"
And the ED, once again, burst into activity, Connor speed walking towards the paramedics with Doris and another nurse, Ethan and April following behind them when another ambulance appeared seconds later.
The next few hours flew by, the minutes lost to injured students who had just been studying and mothers and their young kids who were simply spending their weekends outside their homes.
It hit Will somewhere in-between his fourth and fifth patient, treating a pregnant mother and her five-year-old son, that Faith and Allison had plans to go to the library today. Will could easily remember his daughter's excitement all week at the prospect of taking out several new books as well as taking part in the robotics session the library held, high school kids teaching preschool and elementary kids.
Will's hands shook as he tried putting a new set of gloves on, striding across the ED to get to his next patient; the hustle and bustle fading away as his focus shifted onto Faith.
His toddler, his daughter who had a bad night and a horrible night. Will wished, he prayed, that they stayed home today. Perhaps Faith was in too much of a bad mood this morning and so Allison made the decision to have a chill day at home with junk food and being lazy in front of the tv.
Normally, Will would encourage them to go out and explore, trying to feed Faith's wild and active imagination but for once, he prayed they stayed home. He wouldn't even complain about the sugar crash she was sure to have when he got home.
Monique greeting the next patient struck him out his thoughts, his smile automatic as he started speaking without really thinking, introducing himself, asking the basic questions and easily maneuvering himself around the gurney.
He tried not to get lost in the simple motions, treating the teenagers burns, Monique's comforting words going in one ear and out the other.
Internally cursing himself, he forced himself to be present, making small talk with the teen who was obviously anxious and scared.
"Has anyone called your parents?" He asked, cleaning the bleeding scratches, looking at their face, their eyes watching his every move.
"I called my mom, she's already on her way."
How Will maintained perfect bedside manner was completely lost on him but no one noticed anything wrong with him. Maybe he could do this, distract himself with the job and compartmentalise as much as possible-
"Mr Halstead!"
Stopping mid stride, Monique bumping into his back with a small ooff, Will whipped around, his neck almost snapping from near whiplash. His eyes frantically searched the floor for the voice before they landed on a familiar figure rushing towards him.
Heart thundering, he rushed towards Allison, her hair a mess and face and clothes covered in ash. Her arms tightly clutched a small bundle that made his eyes desperate to water.
"Oh thank god!" Without a second thought, Will took Faith into his arms, her little hands scrunching his scrub top as her face made itself home in the crook of his neck. Her body was shaking, from tears and adrenaline, repeatedly saying daddy with no care for the snot landing on his shirt.
"It's okay baby, I'm here bubbles, you're safe now." Will reassured her, comforting her with his softest words and a warm hand on the back of her head and the other on her back.
"Come on Allison, come 'ere." Will forced one hand off Faith so he could put it around Allison's shoulder, the nineteen-year-old gladly taking any comfort and familiarity after such a traumatic event.
"Are you guys okay? Did you guys get hurt?" Will was desperate to know as both girls shook in his arms. From what he could see, there were a few bumps and scratches and so much ash covering them that smoke inhalation was a definite.
"Monique, are there any spare rooms left?" Keeping Allison tucked close to his side, Will turned to the nurse who stood a few steps behind him bewildered. He was lucky everyone else was so busy otherwise he'd be the centre of attention.
The blonde nurse shook her head, eyes stuck on the toddler trying to make herself as small as possible in his arms.
"No, Maggie already has beds lined up in the halls."
Huffing, Will looked around, taking in the chaos that enveloped the emergency department before he changed route.
Gently steering Allison away from where they stood in front of a treatment room, he pulled out one of the spinning desk chairs that had been abandoned with all staff being busy, Allison wordlessly sitting down.
"Bubbles, baby you have to let go of Daddy." Will spoke with his most gentle voice, one that came to him as second nature, directing it to his baby whose grip wasn't letting up on his scrubs.
"Daddy needs to make your ouchies all better. All you have to do is sit with Allison for five minutes and then we can cuddle again, I promise."
He could feel her brows scrunch together on his neck, her lips pouting as she tried her best not to cry, wanting to be the big girl she strived to be.
Faith very reluctantly nodded, looking up at him with wide eyes that were shining under the bright lights, the previous tears already dried out on her cheeks. "Pinkie promise?"
Will could feel his heart clenching in pain. He was surprised he wasn't in his own treatment room getting his heart checked out.
"Yes baby, pinkie promise." Linking his much larger pinkie with hers, he pried her off his arms, Faith still trying her best to imitate an octopus despite the promise they just exchanged.
"Here's everything Dr Halstead." Monique politely stepped forward, handing him more than enough supplies. "I already told Maggie, she said to take your time."
"Thank you Monique." Will sighed, relief short lived as he put on new gloves and let the younger nurse hand over wipes as she stepped around him with some of her own.
"Faith, Allison, this is Monique, she's a nurse and works with me here, she's going to be helping me, is that okay?"
Neither Will or Monique made any step to move forward till they got confirmation from both of them.
"What hurts bubbles?" Will gently, wiped away the dried blood on Faith's elbow, reaching for another wipe to get rid of the red scrapes on her hands and face.
With her free hand, Faith pointed towards her chest and her foot. She was being unusually shy and meek, a complete one eighty from her extroverted and happy-go-lucky self. Will hated it, seeing his baby so unlike herself. If he could've somehow prevented the fire, he would do anything to do so.
"Okay baby, Daddy's going to listen to your lungs now, do you remember what this is?" Will smiled, trying to coax Faith from her shell. His little girl loved that her dad was a doctor and would soak information and his stories like a sponge.
"A teth- ste..." She frowned, struggling with an adorable pout on her lips.
"Remember what we practised? Spell it out slowly."
Faith nodded, determination replacing the sheen in her eyes as she continued watching her dad work. She had never been to Med before and it was extremely rare she got to see him actually work.
"Oh! I know, I know, it's a ste-tho-scope."
"Yeah! Good job baby!" Hanging his stethoscope around his neck, he held his hand out and let her high five him as hard as she could.
"Do you see this mask? You have to wear it for a little bit so your chest doesn't hurt anymore."
Will held out an oxygen mask, letting Faith take it with curious fingers, carefully putting it on her face and tickling her neck to ease any fear she still had.
Her giggles flooded his bloodstream, the tension stacked in his shoulders dissipating at the sight of her dimpled smile even if it was hidden behind the oxygen mask.
"Good girl bubbles. Now, are you listening?" Will made sure the elastic wasn't digging into her skin, jokingly swatting her hand away when it went to fiddle with the tubing.
Will waited for her to nod, smiling warmly when Faith placed her hands behind her ears in a gesture they were both well versed in.
"Yeah, listening ears. You can't talk with this mask on so if you want anything, just tap daddy okay?"
Faith nodded, giving him two thumbs up and a cheeky smile that he knew meant she was happy with this extra responsibility, any small thing really that made her feel like a big girl and not the toddler she actually was.
Shifting on his knees, he ignored the ache he felt that came with his older age and running around a rambunctious kid, cradling Faith's left foot and tilting it ever so slightly to make sure it wasn't hurt beyond anything superficial.
Seeing that Monique was finishing up with Allison, the younger woman's most serious injury being covered by the gauze on her palm and the oxygen she was now breathing in, he kindly asked her another favour.
"Could you put in an order for an x-ray for Faith's ankle?" Will asked, feeling immense gratitude and relief when Monique was readily tapping away at a tablet. "I know radiologys backed up so just let me know when it's her turn?"
"You got it Dr Halstead."
"You're a star Monique, thank you."
And with that, the nurse walked off, most likely to her next patient who Will also needed to get back to.
"Daddy has to go back to work now Faith. You have to stay here with Allison but you can watch me the whole time! Isn't that cool?"
Will put as much enthusiasm as he could in his words, pointing around them to show that Faith could easily watch his every move in such an open space.
But, worse case scenario, he just took her with him to every patient and have her close her eyes if anything got too ugly.
"Here, how about I call uncle Jay Jay and he can keep you company till I finish - but remember what I said, no talking bubbles, okay?"
Her initial reluctance disappeared as soon as she heard her uncles name. Despite knowing him for only a year, she loved Jay fiercely.
"Hey Jay, are you busy right now?"
*****
Time flew by, each patient blurring into the next. The ED only got more packed out as more time passed, people packed into the waiting room like sardines as all the spare beds held multiple people when they got desperate.
In between patients, Will accompanied Faith to her x-ray and was discharging a different patient went he got the results.
A sprained ankle wasn't the worst ever but it was the biggest injury for Faith in her four years of living. Her ankle was quite swollen, even with all the ice packs he gave her so they were sending her home in a brace.
Besides that, her smoke inhalation had been treated with two rounds of oxygen and Faith had been discharged alongside Allison whose older brother picked her up several hours ago.
Will insisted on her taking the next week off, promising that he wasn't mad and was always going to be grateful she kept his baby girl safe.
Around the same time she left, Jay had arrived. He had been able to get off work early, purposely being vague about the details, and had been with Faith ever since, stuck to her side as Will went back and forth.
It was clear to anyone that knew Faith that she was much more relaxed now that she had her uncle. It also could be the paracetamol she had but Jay had been making her laugh and was more than happy to keep the toddler in his arms or sat on his lap for however long she wanted.
Having his brother keeping Faith company made working just that much more easier for Will.
As the traffic in the ED started dying out, Will found himself charting besides Maggie. The charge nurses curiosity was so palpable that Will was seconds away from just answering all her unsaid questions.
"She's beautiful."
Maggie's words were soft and already full of warmth and love.
Looking up from the computer, Will followed her line of sight and found himself automatically smiling at his daughter who was giggling as she poked at the freckles on Jay's face, falling backwards from the force of her laughter but staying secure in her uncles arms.
"She is. I have no idea where she gets it from."
Maggie looked at him like he was a stupid idiot, scoffing when she realised he was being serious.
"Boy, that girl is all you, an exact copy and paste." She rolled her eyes but her smile didn't move. "She's all Halstead - that red hair, brown eyes, yours and your brothers smile and I can already tell she's as stubborn as you Halstead's come."
And she was being truthful. Every time Will looked at Faith, he tried finding bits of her mother but always found nothing. It should make it feel bad, Faith's mom had carried her for nine months and gave birth but every inch of her was Halstead.
Not many would know but Faith had his father's eyes and his mother's curls and dimpled smile. She had his hair and Jay's freckles, both their confidence and all of their combined stubbornness.
It made his heart ache to see just how much of his own mother he could see in Faith. It made him fear the day his dad, somehow, would find out she existed.
"Come on, you wanna meet her?"
Maggie was already pushing him forward before he could finish his sentence.
Laughing, Will tried not to stumble over his feet, letting Maggie drag him towards where Jay and Faith were sitting.
"Daddy! I missed you!" Faith barely kept her inside voice, launching herself towards him, ignoring Jay's grunt when she accidentally wacked him in the face.
Will caught her, easily taking her weight and being careful of her braced foot.
"I missed you too baby." Will accepted the several kisses she pressed to his cheek, her hand clutching his necklace in a comforting move that she had been doing ever since she developed motor skills.
"Bubbles, I want to introduce you to one of my friends."
She gasped, eyes wide and mouth agape dramatically in such a way that Jay loved saying she would be a good actress in the future.
"Your best friend daddy?"
This time, Will pretended to be shocked, holding a hand to his chest in pretend hurt. "Never, you my best friend bubbles, but this is one of my closest friends."
Giggling at his statement, Faith made sure that he also knew, "You're my best friend too, forever and ever, I pinkie promise!"
Will was already dreading the day she became a teenager who found it uncool and embarrassing to be best friends with their dad.
"This is my friend Maggie, she's a nurse. Maggie, meet the coolest girl I know, Faith Halstead."
Maggie's smile was all happiness and goo, looking like she was melting from the cuteness that followed Faith like a shadow.
Looking away from Faith, all of a sudden, there was a crowd standing besides Maggie. Their eyes filled, with stars, smiles all the same as they cooed at his daughter, looking seconds away from squeezing her cheeks and cuddling her like any grandma would.
"Your dad's been holding out on us kiddo, where's he been hiding you?"
And when Faith simply giggled, laughing like it was one of the greatest jokes she's ever heard, Will found himself resigned to the teasing he could already see in all his co-workers gearing up for.
Faith had gained a whole new family, an army of people who would love her endlessly and protect her fiercely.
Eid Mubarak!!!!!! I know Eid has technically ended but I’ve been quite busy this last week with Ramadan and Eid prep.
I thought a little life update would be nice after being absent for a month and a quick Eid Mubarak would be nice.
I hope the new year has been treating you all better than it had me and my family 😀 it’s only March but I’m already so tired of this year which is one of the reasons I haven’t written in quite a while and probably won’t write for a while longer too.
Thank you all so much for your love and patience. I will be back at some point, promise 🤞
To make you feel better under here is my Eid outfit because she deserves to be showed off somewhere💞
Hii!
I'm new to your blog, but so far I really love your writing!
I would like to request a Severide x reader, where on a call, the reader hurts her knee but doesn't tell anyone (kind of like Severide did in the first season). Some time later, on a house fire call, there was an explosion or something, and the reader gets under rubble and she can't get out, because she can't feel her leg and the rubble pinned her down so other have to rescue her out. She gets bad news in the hospital, but with time, she can get back to work. Please make it angst from the beginning, but end it with fluff 😊
Thank you so much!
Warnings: Major injuries, house fires, canon-typical injuries, angst
A/N: Hi!! Am I writing this instead of doing my assignment, yes but who cares. Thank you so much for this request cause I love me some angst and I feel like I don't write it enough and I really enjoyed writing this even though it took me a while to do. I hope this is up to your standards and that you all enjoy!!
*****
When you first injured your knee, it wasn't all that bad.
Initially, the call had been about an injury that soon devolved into Sylvie believing it was a result of domestic abuse and then out of nowhere, some guy comes storming in, pushing you out his way.
You weren't too hurt besides tweaking your knee, so you thought. You had been given an obligatory check over and it was determined that besides the few scratches on your arms and your ruins pants, that was the extent of your injuries.
You didn't bother thinking about your knee much after that. Things such as pulled muscles and hearing your bones click occasionally was a precaution of the job, especially considering how long you'd been doing it for.
Getting injured was also just a perquisite for this job sometimes. You had seen all your colleagues get hurt, more or less, and on occasion yourself too.
You had grown up in a first responder household too, coming from a long line of firefighters on your dads side and your mum being a nurse. Not only that but all your brothers followed in his footsteps and you couldn't see yourself doing anything either.
The stubbornness and pure drive from your childhood, keeping up with your firefighter brothers and then the male dominated classes at the academy and even at the firehouse, was one of the reasons you brushed it off for so long.
The aforementioned 'it' being your possibly career-ending injury.
When you first landed on your knee, the pain was short lived and you didn't feel anything besides a slight ache in your joint afterwards. It was around a week or two later when the pain came back.
You had brushed it off. Continuing to go to work, going to the gym to try stretch it away, blaming in on the job and ageing.
But it just kept getting worse. The on-and-off pain was now constant. When the apartment was silent, you would quietly take pain medication, hoping to get a few hours of sleep uninterrupted by your injured knee, an injuring your were desperately trying to ignore.
As the pain progressed, it slowly started to affect your day-to-day life. Jogging on the treadmill hurt when it never should've and getting calls for fires were now anxiety inducing.
You could hear your mother lecturing you. Her years of being a nurse, a lifetime experience of being married to a firefighter meant she had seen and heard basically everything.
It was a miracle you had his this from her for so long. If she caught even a hint of your injured knee, she would be dragging you into the hospital, willingly or not, she be damned.
And despite the guilt that was eating up at you day by day, your fear kept you from telling Kelly. Maybe it was because you knew he'd understand and you knew how he would react was why you kept it a secret but as more time passed, telling him just felt more and more impossible.
Unfortunately for you, you never got the chance to come clean.
*****
The day had been filled with back to back calls, leaving almost no time for anyone to even eat till Boden put the station offline for half an hour for everyone to eat and restock.
Someone must have said the Q-word because you had been on the road for the past two hours now, getting another call as soon as you got back into the truck.
Currently you were at a house fire, the house abnormally large. You were surveying the third floor with Gallo looking for any stragglers left behind when you heard the creaking and groaning of the floor boards.
Getting a warning on the radio, given five minutes to get out, you left the final bedroom, nodding at Gallo who was leaving the bathroom ahead of you before you both started heading for the stairs.
The staircase came into view when it happened. The floorboards behind you went crashing down and the walls' groans were so load you struggled to hear Gallo's shouting over it.
Before you could do anything, the floor beneath you vanished, sending you and Gallo falling down all the way down.
Coming back to, you instantly started coughing as you inhaled the dust heavily coating the air. Opening your eyes, all you could see was empty space, in your periphery you could see where the floors had broken.
Surrounding you were chunks of debris, pieces of broken floors and walls covering every inch of the ground.
Coughing again, you tried sitting up but found yourself stuck. Exclaiming in pain, you leaned back on your forearms, you looked down and exhaled sharply at the state of your legs, the image so grotesque you had to look away.
"Y/N! There you are!" Blake breathed out in relief, looking an absolute mess covered in dust and small pieces of debris. He looked relatively uninjured besides the few scratches on his face and taking into consideration how he was cradling his side, he probably bruised or cracked his ribs.
"Are you oka- woah." It was like there was a record scratch based on how he reacted, face so expressive as he tripped over a bit of what looked like a table leg.
"Give me your radio." He took only a few seconds to recollect himself before he came back towards you, you already unclipping your intact radio before handing it into his outstretched hand.
If you passed out after that, you were none the wiser.
*****
Watching the house crumble like a bunch of stacked cards made Kelly's heart drop alongside it.
Everyone bar you and Gallo had evacuated, everyone either already outside or on the first floor.
Trying not to fling away Matt's hand that held his bicep so strongly he was scared he'd hear his bones creak, Kelly held his breath, trying to hear a single peep from the wreck before them.
Kelly was aware of Matt shouting down the radio, calling for you and Gallo to come in and say anything at all to show proof of life but five minutes had passed and besides Matt, the radio was dead silent.
Kelly tried not to get ahead of himself but as more time passed and the radio remained quiet, he found his world slowly closing in around him.
"Mayday Mayday!! Fire- down!" The radio cut off mid sentence, everyone jolting, jumping up and jumping into action at the sound of Blake's loud and harried voice.
Over the next two and a bit hours, contact with Blake remained constant. The firefighter trying his best to relay your injuries that he said were much, much worse than his.
Locating both of you took some time but digging and retrieving took much longer. Extraction didn't take so long but handling and treating you made it all that much harder.
You were unconscious, regaining consciousness for less than a minute when they were mid dig and you hadn't woken up since. Sylvie reassured that it was likely due to the blood loss, the immense pain you were in, and the highly likely concussion that both you and Blake had since both your helmets fell upon impact.
Kelly looked at your leg once when they found you and he hadn't looked back since. He was more than content to look at your bruised and sooty face, wishing more than anything that your features wouldn't be slack from passing out but he could breathe easier knowing you didn't have to suffer in the excruciating pain you must've been in.
God, once you woke up, you were going to be devastated knowing just how badly you were hurt. He could already hear your complaints about not being able to work.
For once, he couldn't wait to hear them.
*****
The room was relatively quiet. The sounds of the machines kept his heart from leaping out his chest and he could hear the muffled going ons of the hospital outside the doors of the recovery room.
Kelly had just been left alone, Matt finally leaving after you were properly situated and they had all gotten the lay down on what had happened to you and what was going to happen going forward.
He lost himself in his thoughts that were running at hundreds of miles per minute. How had he never noticed?
The surgeon had told him that on top of the damage your leg sustained today in the fall, there had also been previous damage that had gone undetected and untreated, or so the surgeon said.
You and Kelly had been together a while, friends and colleagues several years before that and so he could easily say that he knew you pretty darn well.
He knew that you had noticed the pain in your knee and he could bet that you also knew the exact moment when you had gotten hurt.
At first, he wanted to be mad. After all the hurt and shock had passed, the anger came, even if it was momentary.
He had been in your position once and there were several other injuries in his career where the fear of being forced into retirement was overwhelmingly strong.
Mostly, he was just annoyed that he hadn't noticed anything, no one had. Not even your family.
While you were being moved from surgery into a room, Kelly finally mustered the courage to call your parents and to say they were worried and shocked was an understatement.
Neither of them had suspected that you were injured in any sort of way and considering their experience, the signs were blaringly bright.
You had been hiding the injury extremely well and it was being hidden on purpose for quite a while.
Your fingers twitched in its enclosed space on Kelly's hand. His eyes remained stuck on your face where it had been for an hour now, not even being able to imagine not having you anywhere else besides in front of him.
Gently rubbing his thumb across the back of your hand, he watched as your face twitched, eyebrows and nose scrunching as you slowly started coming to.
Pouring water into the cup ahead of time, he leaned forward, quietly coaxing you back into the world of the living.
Through the slits of your eyes, you blearily looked at the man who you wanted to spend the rest of your life with, his face being the best thing to see first thing when you woke up.
You were confused, your face hiding nothing as you tried remembering. Kelly could see it, clear as day, as it all finally clicked. The hitch in your breath, the spike in the monitor, your eyes widening as they darted towards your right leg that was swallowed in the biggest cast you had ever seen.
"It's okay." Kelly shushed you, comforting you as much as he could without causing you anymore pain. "It's not fine but with time, you're going to heal, trust me."
You looked at him sceptically, the heart monitor slowing down as the panic dissipated.
"Okay then trust the surgeon and the second and third opinion I got." Kelly assured you, kissing your forehead before bringing the cup towards you, holding the straw between his fingers at your lips so you could drink.
Placing the cup back to on the table near your head, when Kelly looked back at you, he was subjected to your big shining eyes, an innocent look that he had been on the receiving end hundreds of times, a look that everyone and their mother knew he couldn't resist.
Without any long words, Kelly gave you the rundown of your injuries, starting with the easy small stuff of your concussion and bruised ribs before he got onto the mess that was your leg.
As he spoke, he watched your face closely at it all dawned on you. The fact that you were this close to having your career forced to an end but by some miracle, and with lots of time, a bunch treatment and much rehab, you would get back to where you belong at 51, as a firefighter.
"I royally screwed up, didn't I?" You said, not really asking. You already knew the answer. Had you gone to the doctor about the pain in your knee, this new injury wouldn't have been as exacerbated as it was right now.
Kelly hummed, not wanting to say anything when he knew you were already cursing yourself out, telling yourself off for everything you didn't do. He also knew that when you parents got here, you were going to get a big talking to.
Speaking of...
"Y/N! Oh my baby!" Your mum came flying in, a blur of movement as she cradled your face and smothered you in kisses, her words lost in between.
Kelly exchanged amused glances with your father who stood not far behind his wife but the concern and worry was evident in his eyes as he studied you sternly.
Stepping to the side, Kelly brushed aside the thanks your dad gave him as he took your other side. He murmured his relief, kissing the crown of your head, his hand resting between your shoulder and neck as he spoke so lowly that only you and your mother could hear.
Telling by the welling of your eyes, Kelly could connect the dots as to what was being said.
Watching your dad fully embrace you, your mum let the two of your have your own separate moment as she came and hugged Kelly. Her thanks spilling from her mouth, her gratitude forever unpayable, claiming she could never repay and was forever thankful he saved her baby.
Kelly knew better than to say anything, simply nodding and saying his own thanks before watching as your mum fluttered around the room like the expert she still was despite being retired, you and your dad looking at her with the same warmth and amusement in your eyes.
Yeah, Kelly knew that everything was going to be just fine.
heeeey, i'd really love something about Jay Halstead... him and reader are into each other but haven't explicitly told each other yet, even though they know it, and they go undercover and jay gets jealous bc a man flirts with reader and then they talk and you know .... then whatever you want💓💓
Warnings: Mentions of crime, gangs, canon-typical violence
A/N: Hi hi!!!! Thank you so much for this. I hope that this lives up to your expectations and you enjoy reading it just as much as I did writing it. I tried to be as exact to your request but I did change some bits, hope you don't mind ;) I've had lots of free time lately so I'm trying to get a bunch of writing done while uni is slow right now, so I apologise for any mistakes. I hope you enjoy!!
*****
The club was pounding with music, bodies upon bodies that exchanged sweat and hundreds of glasses of alcohol being spilt just as much as it was being consumed. The place was dark, the only lights being the red, blue and purple that rotated so often that you already had a headache and it hadn't even been thirty minutes yet.
This undercover stint was supposed to be quick. Everything planned yesterday when one of Voight's CI's brought up a concern of theirs which then divulged into uncovering a large trafficking ring, all the victims being scouted and picked up from this specific club.
You and Jay picked the short straws, especially considering the last undercover had been done by Hailey and Kim.
Your hair was styled in a way that it hid the communication device in your ear and you stacked multiple necklaces so that no one got suspicious of the one that contained the hidden camera. Your sensual but skimpy at the same time dress would hopefully erase any sort of distrust that these types of men were paranoid about.
Upon entry, you and Jay had separated. You were purposely dressed and acting like the type of girls that the perpetrators were interested in and Jay was there for a more back up role, being immediate support when it became necessary.
The scene was all set. Before you got 'lost' in the dancing crowd, you and Jay feigned a fight in a half empty corridor, purposely drawing attention as you gloomily stomped away and Jay gave extreme attitude, swearing and acting like a common criminal.
When you later confirmed that you could see your main criminal man eyeing you up after that, you continued on with the plan that was engraved in your mind.
You tried not to cringe at the secondary sweat that was clinging to your body, trying to look natural despite your immense discomfort in such an environment. Ever since you became a detective, you were always good at being undercover because of how good you were at playing any part but it didn't mean that you enjoyed it, especially when it involved getting close and personal with such disgusting people.
From afar, you could feel two pairs of eyes drilled into the back of your head, and you only wanted the attention of one of them.
For around a year now, you and Jay had a will-they-won't-they, almost situationship going on.
The flirting had started cautious and very vague but when it was reciprocated, it only got stronger, more intense and more pointed. Recently, it had gotten to the point that when you exchanged certain words, everyone around you would share pointed glances and exasperated sighs.
You weren't too sure if you appreciated it but nonetheless, you and Jay continued to go about your dynamic without directly addressing it.
And right now, Jay was deeply regretting it.
Even before the flirting started, he always hated watching you go undercover, no matter the situation, whether it was because he was concerned for your safety or if he was annoyed and frustrated at the men who tried to get their ways with you.
He knew you were more than capable to handle them, whether with your words or with your hands but that didn't mean his mind was able to justify its emotions.
Currently, his emotions, read: jealousy, was unhinged.
His jaw was firmly set, gaze hardened and hands clenching his glass so tightly he had to change seats so that the girl next to him would stop looking at him so weirdly.
Watching the suspect approach you, hearing your exchanged faintly in his ear as he watched it happen in real time. Seeing as his hands wasted no time in touching your body and moving you in all the ways he wanted.
He was clenching his jaw so hard that his dentist was probably going to bring it up when he next had an appointment.
Unable to move his eyes away from you, he forced himself to the torture of continuing to watch, rationalising in his mind that he knew you hated all of this more than any of the team.
Some time later, eleven minutes to be exact - Jay had been counting the seconds - the criminal bent down to whisper in your ears, looking at you heatedly, an evil, chill-making smirk appearing on his face when you nodded.
Watching you being dragged away, he drowned the rest of his drink, slowly standing and waiting for his cue from Kevin now that you were no longer in his sight.
Exactly five minutes later, Kevin's words of 'go go go', Jay was moving quickly and swiftly. Expertly swerving through the crowd as he followed the directions you had gone in with the added support of Kevin telling him where to go when he navigated the back rooms.
Drawing out his gun, keeping it pointed to the ground, he quickly unlocked the door, instantly looking for the man that he strongly hated.
Seeing him subdued on the ground made him lower his guard, already holstering his gun as he went to help you lock his hands behind his back.
"You're late."
You cheekily grinned at him, face shining from exertion, still catching your breath and barely a scratch on you. Jay couldn't hold back, smiling back and huffing.
Yeah, there was a reason why he loved you so much, and this was one of the many.
*****
The team stormed in afterwards, apprehending the rest of the men and emptying the club, taking witness accounts and arresting the staff who were also complicit in the trafficking ring.
The night was long, time flying by before it eventually started dragging out as it got later and the club got emptier. All of the team was scattered around, tying up the loose ends and making sure everything was finished before they all wrapped up to head back to the precinct.
At Voight's insistence, you had gotten checked out quickly by the few paramedics that showed up, easily getting the all clear as they handed you a bottle of water that you swiftly downed.
As you all got more tired, everyone tried picking up the pace and after another hour were able to go back to the precinct, lazily sorting out the last bits and pieces before heading straight to the locker room.
Everyone exchanged short goodbyes, you received several pats on the back as everyone left one by one, you waving back, simply repeating your thanks as you tried not to flush at their compliments.
As you watched Kim leave, her voice fading around the corner, you were becoming very aware of the presence of the last person in here with you.
Licking your chapped lips, you sifted through your locker for your lip balm, closing the door and zipping up your bag.
The once warm and easy air was now slowly heating up and filled to the brim with tension, the room almost buzzing as you tried to breathe steadily.
Inhaling shakily, you stood up, shrugging on your cardigan so it properly sat on your shoulders, trying not to get annoyed when one side kept slipping off down to your bicep.
"You did good today." Jay complimented, hands in his pocket, jacket packed away in his duffel leaving him dressed in his perfectly snug henley. It took a lot of self-restraint to not ogle at his biceps that were straining against his sleeves. "I kinda hate it but you're always pretty amazing undercover."
The words he didn't say were loud and clear for you. Often, the two of you were paired together for stints and Jay always had the same particular, telling expression on his face every time.
And today wasn't an exception. In fact, today it only intensified and it was slowly killing you on the inside.
You couldn't help yourself, your smile warm and welcoming, beaming as it outstretched, swirling like vines and curling around every inch of Jay's being, no inch of skin, not a molecule left untouched.
Jay cracked first.
His breath sounded like it had been punched out of him as he stepped towards you, his touch feather light as his fingers skimmed over your bare shoulder as he fixed your cardigan, lifting the one shoulder and ensuring it wouldn't slip any more.
Your heart was beating erratically and your brain was firing left, right and centre. Holding your breath, eyelashes fluttering as the distance decreased.
It felt like coming home.
It was warm and all encompassing. It was sensual and slow, your bodies so close there wasn't any space for even oxygen to separate you two. It was unlike any other first kiss you've had before, everything falling into place as the final puzzle piece clicked, satisfaction buzzing in the air.
You could feel his smile against yours, breathless giggles being exchanged when you forced yourself to come up for air.
"Hi." You voice was hoarse, traces of your lightly tinted lip balm smeared across his rosy lips.
"Hey." He sounded just as destroyed, hands gripping your hips firmly as though he never wanted to let go while also cradling you like you were the most precious thing in his world.
The silence was packed with unspoken feelings and words but you weren't worried about it. The calm that settled into your bones made your previous worries and anxieties all evaporate.
"We should go before Voight catches us." Jay said, voice still low as not to break the bubble surrounding you.
You nodded, smile permanently fixed as you followed him.
"Yeah, let's go home."
Too much love masterlist
Started: 20/07/24 - 16/01/26
Warnings: Mentions of dead men, toxic families, stalking/obsessions, minor violence
Summary: Everything had been perfectly fine until a man you didn’t know put you in his will.
Prologue
Baker and McKenzie
Richard Coleman
Meeting the Coleman's
Breaking News
Unstable infrastructure
Sick Baby
Family Business
Epilogue
And that's a wrap people!! This took much much longer than I originally anticipated but I loved everything about it. It was kinda rough, especially considering my personal life but I'm so happy with how this series turned out.
Writing this made me realise I don't write for Matt a lot so I will definitely be doing that more in the future. So if anyone has any fic ideas send them all my way.
Thank you all so much for reading and being so patient as it took over a year to get it finished, I love you guys all so much. <3
Too much love (Epilogue)
Warnings: Brief mentions of crime, prison, death, foster care
Summary: It's Andy's first birthday and nothing is going to ruin the day.
A/N: And that's a wrap!! This is the end of my third series and despite it not performing as well as the others I had so much fun making up this plot and writing it. I don't write for Matt a lot and it was nice to give him some love. Thank you all so much for reading and hopefully you all enjoyed this just as much as I did making it! I might take a break I'm not sure, we'll just have to see where my inspiration takes me. Enjoy!! <3
Previous Chapter / Masterlist
The kitchen was a mess, platters of food on the counters and table, the sink half filled and dishwasher waiting to be filled. Pans sat on all the hobs on the stove, the gas on as the oven cooked the multiple dishes inside.
Taking a step back, you held the piping bag away as you scrutinised the cake. It was a small cake, having to buy specific pans to make a mini smash cake that you baked yourself for Andy while everyone else had the other cake that was being brought along with the cupcakes and tens of other desserts.
The cookies were resting on the side, the final batch just going in the oven. As it cooled you were putting the final touches of frosting on the cake, the cake cute but simplistic enough for a first birthday, special enough that it wasn't too overboard.
Carefully setting the cake inside the fridge, away from anything else so it wouldn't get ruined, you directed your attention to the rest of the kitchen that was being commandeered by your mother who was scary enough to be like a General, everyone steering clear of the kitchen an hour ago when she got very threatening.
Turning around, she shooed you at the kitchen as soon as she saw you finished with the cake. She insisted she could keep an eye on everything else and refused yours and everyone else's help, telling you to go check in on your baby.
Stepping into the living room, you sighed. You hadn't been able to fully relax, the stress and anxiety at wanting everything to be perfect for not only your baby but for your family too.
In the living room, Matt was wrangling the concerning amount of presents that everyone was bringing. The party had just started but the spoiling had long begun. Kelly was no help, standing to the side snickering despite the fact that he contributed way too many gifts himself.
Everyone was either in the garden or in the living room, your siblings going in and out of the kitchen and living room as they finally wore down your mum to get involved in preparations.
But someone was missing.
"Matt?" You called your husband, raising your voice when he didn't hear you. "Has Andy woken up from his nap?"
Matt looked you over, content that you weren't pulling your hair out from stress. His smile was telling as he replied, "He's in his room, she's getting him dressed."
Your smile softened. Blowing him a kiss, you took off upstairs towards Andy's nursery, the noise of the party muffling the further you walked.
Knocking on the door, you slowly opened it, peeking inside before opening it fully.
You melted, the sight before you not unfamiliar as it became an almost daily occurrence.
Sat on the rug, a few toys scattered around them was Harper and Andy. Andy was now fully dressed in his cute little shirt and pants, his colours co-ordinating with the decorations downstairs and the outfits you all were wearing.
His little hands held tightly onto his stuffy as he watched the older girl act out with the other toys in front of him. His eyes wide and smile cheeky as he watched intriguingly, giggling cutely at random intervals.
In front of him sat Harper, dressed similarly to you and her hair no longer the birds nest it was this morning when you saw her at breakfast. She had a toy in each hand, smile permanent as she played with Andy.
Several months ago, Edward and Eleanor Coleman had been arrested and charged with murder in the first and second degree, attempted kidnapping and a few other charges around fraud.
Turns out, Richard's death was indeed a murder but not by his parents. One of his many enemies, some gang who had been competing with him, had purposely hit him with their car and tried making it look like an accident.
His parents had actually killed Harper's biological parents, The Johnson's, when she was around the age of five when they learned that they were put in their wills in the case of their demise, especially since they would receive all their finances and custody of their only child, Harper.
This time around, they had similar plans. Wanting to get rid of you so they could become Richard's beneficiaries. With you gone, they would get custody of their 'grandson' and then they would gain all of the inheritance.
It was clear to say their plans had gone down the drain once Intelligence got involved.
Ever since their arrest, their eldest daughter was old enough to be left alone at twenty-three but Harper and their youngest son were a different story.
Initially, they had both been temporarily put into foster care. Eloise, the eldest daughter, stepped forward and was immediately granted custody of her younger brother but it was different for Harper who was adopted.
The courts were hesitant, especially considering the attitude of all the Colemans that the remaining two siblings naturally had. Not only that but Eloise hadn't put up much of a fight either.
When Kim gave you and Matt a final update on the case, she had mentioned what was happening to the kids and after a very long conversation and a few days of consideration, you and Matt brought up your joint foster care licence.
Fortunately, the process that followed didn't take too long and you and Matt soon found yourselves foster parents to Harper who turned sixteen a few weeks before Andy's birthday.
Neither you or Matt brought up the idea of adoption yet. All of you were happy and comfortable with the current arrangement and the social worker had said there would be no movement unless Harper herself complained or turned eighteen.
You were just going with the flow of things and maybe when a year passed of having her under your care, you and Matt would bring the idea up to her but for now, you loved having this.
"Look at you kids, having fun?"
Hearing your voice, both their heads turned towards you, faces brightening at the same time.
"Mama! Mama!"
Unable to help yourself, you scooped Andy into your arms, relishing in his baby giggles. Smothering his face in kisses, blowing raspberries into his cheeks as Harper smiled up at you before she stood to up.
"Are you ready for some cake Andy?" You asked your son, your pitch high as you spoke to him even though you weren't expecting an actual answer.
"You finally finished the cake? Thank goodness." Harper joked, dodging you when you gasped at her.
It had taken a little while for Harper to get comfortable. It was hard to not feel scrutinised by the couple who were the victims of her previous adopted parents who had tried getting rid of you and taking your baby.
After a few weeks, she finally shook off calling you Mr and Mrs Casey and was now more than comfortable using not only your names but also everyone else's too, your family and the firehouses too.
To see her comfortable making jokes not just around you but around your friends and family too, acting as though she had always been there and always fit in perfectly made you love her just that much more.
Following her out the room and back downstairs, you watched her marvel at the decorations that she hadn't seen earlier in the day, hugging Stella and Sylvie when she found them in the dining room.
Everyone cheered when you entered the dining room, several voices calling out for Andy as they all stood around his high chair, Matt standing to the side with the cake you made in his hand.
Sitting him down in his high chair, everyone started singing. Voices joined, some perfect in pitch and others not so much as Matt placed the cake on the little table attached to the chair.
"Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to you!"
You and Matt stood on either side of Andy, crouching slightly so you could be on the same level as him. His eyes were wide, shining with happiness and wonder as he looked all around the room, unable to focus on just his singing entourage or the cake a few inches from him.
"Happy birthday to Andy!"
As you tried to make sure he didn't grab the small flame of the single candle on the cake, Matt gestured towards Harper, motioning her to join you with his arm held out. Your sister and Stella giving her a little nudge when she hesitated.
"Happy birthday to you!"
Everyone cheered, claps drowned out by whistles and cheers. On the count of three, you, Matt and Harper 'helped' Andy blow out his candles, all the noise doubling when the candle was blown out.
Taking the candle out, everyone watched closely as Andy looked at the cake, unsure of what he was seeing but unable to not touch it.
Sticking his hand straight in, he looked bewildered at the frosting mess his hands were before he went back in with much more vigour. He made several digs before he met any cake, his baby wonder bringing his stubby fingers towards his mouth as he finally tried it.
From there on, the mess was wild, your baby boy discovering his sweet tooth. The crowd before him laughing, encouraging him more as they recorded, memorialising the moment no one would ever forget.
It was crazy to think that your baby was now a whole year old, he had grown so much and would only continue to do so. It was a bittersweet moment.
Not only that, but so much had happened within his first year of life. So many highs and lows but today, right now in this moment, you couldn't help but be glad that it all happened.
Despite the mess that ensued followed Richard Coleman's death, it had led you the family you have now. A perfect family of four, and maybe even five in the future.
You still weren't used to the luxuries of this new life. You had sold off Richard's mansion, getting rid of all his properties so that all you were left with was his fortune. Paying off any debts and starting saving accounts for your children. Donations had been abundant and the previous stress of the cost of living were no longer there despite still being firefighters.
"Oh thank you so much baby!" You opened your mouth at the hand that was held in front of you, slapping at your mouth till you ate the smallest bit of cake and a lot of buttercream. Your face a mess that was mirrored across from you on Matt and Harper's face too.
Everyone descended into laughter. Camera lights flashing as someone handed you a napkin. Your mum's voice in the distance announcing everyone was welcomed to help themselves to all the desserts.
Your cheeks were hurting from how much you were smiling, your laughter swallowed by Matt's kiss. The love in the room was palpable, you and Matt bringing Harper between you as you both bent down to kiss either side of Andy's cheeks.
You loved your family, your love for your husband and kids so strong that it could most definitely take on a physical form. Some might say it was too much love but for you, there was no such thing.
Too much love (VII)
Warnings: Mentions of drugs, criminal activity, gangs
Summary: Intelligence tries to finally get to the bottom of things.
A/N: AH! Hope 2026 has been treating you all well so far. I’m struggling to sleep please don’t ask why I’m doing this at four in the morning. Anyways, This will be the last chapter before the epilogue. I had so much fun writing this series and I hope you guys had just as much fun reading it. I was going back on forth on how to end things but ultimately I think this is the best way. I hope you all enjoy!!
Previous Chapter / Series Masterlist / Next Chapter
When Kim confirmed to Voight that Richard was heavily involved in illegal activities, the evidence screaming at her in his basement, he grabbed Jay and made their way to the Coleman family home.
At this point, Jay had just hung up the phone from talking with Kevin, said man relaying a few specifics about what they found at the deceased mans mansion and was going to send pictures.
Looking at his phone, flicking through the pictures Kevin just sent, Jay whistled, brows raised, impressed at what he was seeing. "Woah, it's safe to say Richard was some hardcore pharmacist huh."
At the red light, Hank looked over, raising a brow before he continued driving. "Mhm, pretty sure we've seen that logo around for a while now."
Jay nodded, looking closely at the logo printed on the bags on his phone, which did look quite familiar. It had appeared several years ago, seemingly appearing out the blue and had quickly spread and became well-known, becoming the go-to supplier even if its price increased over the years.
The car stopped, parked in the driveway of a large house that loomed over the two men. It was almost obnoxious, a few cars parked to the side and the large garage made it obvious that there were even more. It looked well kept from the outside and they had no doubts the inside wasn't the same.
Ringing the bell, it didn't take long for the door to open, the person who greeted them being a teenage girl whose bright smile dimmed exponentially when she saw them.
Her blonde hair was braided, strands and baby hairs all poking out, the baggy hoodie and sweatpants she wore making it obvious they weren't the company she was expecting.
"You're not Lucy..." Her face was paling, biting her lips as her nerves overcame her. As she studied them, her eyes landed on their badges and guns, "Oh no, did Mr and Mrs Casey send you?"
Her whisper made it clear that she didn't want anyone overhearing, her whisper indicating to the men who she was.
"Your the girl who gave Y/N the keys?" Hank purposely kept it vague.
The teenager meekly nodded, stepping aside when she saw the two men look behind her into her house.
"Why are you leaving Lucy outside! Let the poor girl in my gosh- Oh!" The woman paused, gasping as Hank and Jay walked into the house, the teen closing the door before she made her way towards the woman.
"Officers! I wasn't expecting you. I assume you need to see my husband? Unfortunately you just missed him, he already left for work not too long ago."
The older woman was dressed to go, makeup cleanly done, hair pinned up and dressed so immaculately it hurt to be in the same vicinity as her. Despite her age, she barely had any wrinkles. The bag she held was designer and the house they stood in was a perfect reflection of her.
"Eleanor Coleman." Hank held out his hand, the woman shaking it politely. "Sergeant Hank Voight and this is Detective Halstead. We work in Intelligence for the CPD."
Her mouth formed an 'o', the teenage girl standing a small distance from her looking scared after their introduction.
"It's a pleasure to meet you gentleman but as I've said, my husband isn't home and I've got an appointment booked-"
"We just have some questions Ma'am." Jay said, trying to be polite. "We're looking into your son, Richard Coleman's, death. We won't take too long, promise."
"We were told it was an accident." Eleanor sniffed, looking to the girl at her side before she continued. "That it was a drunk driver who was speeding and they were trying to find him."
Jay tried to not say too much, especially with the young girl still in the room with them. "The after accident reports show that the driver was completely sober but his ID and number plates were fake. We're just trying to do our due diligence Ma'am."
Looking slightly annoyed, she huffed but agreed to be questioned. Turning around, she gestured for them to follow her but not before talking to the girl besides her.
"Go make sure Michael stays in his room. I don't want either of you hearing this." She sternly told her, her face sending a clear message she didn't want any arguments.
The teenager nodded, walking away but looked back as she went up the stairs. Her face was full of anxiety and nerves, even hints of fear as she looked between the two men and her mother.
As soon as she disappeared upstairs, Eleanor led them towards a large room that was the living room. All the decor screamed money and it was glaringly obvious they lived in luxury and they loved it.
"I thought you had four children?" Jay asked, watching the woman sit down, already looking exhausted when the questioning hadn't even started.
"My second is out the house. She's catching up with some friends." Eleanor huffed before she straightened out. "Alright then, let's get this over with already."
"If you don't mind me asking, what was Richard like?"
*****
Around an hour later and their questions had all been answered bar one that needed proof to back it up which Eleanor was currently trying to find in the study.
Hank followed her, Jay slowing his steps as he exchanged a look with his boss who nodded.
Watching the two disappear into the study. Jay wasted no time in going upstairs, trying to keep his feet light as to not alert anyone of what he was doing.
Looking through the first floor, he didn't find what he was looking for but as soon as he got to the second floor he found it.
Knocking on the open door, he stood in the corridor trying not to scar the girl.
Sitting on a plush bed, back resting against the headboard as she scrolled through her phone was the same teenager who had answered the door.
"Detective!" Wide eyed, she straightened out her back, dropping her phone on her lap.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you." Jay apologised with his hands raised, slowly entering the room. She still looked a little scared and anxious.
"No, it's okay." She shook her head, tucking her loose strands of hair behind her ears. "I was sort of waiting till you were going to ask me questions."
Jay hummed, his hands in his pockets. "Well, if you don't mind me asking. Earlier you mentioned the Casey's sending us, why did you give them the keys?"
Fiddling with the strings on her hoodie, she hesitated before she answered. "Uh, I kinda told them that it's because I know something weird was happening."
When Jay didn't say anything, just nodding with an encouraging smile, she continued.
"I'm sure you know, but they adopted me when I was six so I don't remember much. Anyways, they've always adored Richard, their favouritism was blatant even after Michael was born and they got even weirder when he started mentioning Y/N."
She sighed deeply as she remembered what he used to be like. "He got so obsessed so quickly but he only showed us pictures, never brought her over and didn't even offer a wedding invite."
"I always thought it was weird. This family is so close-knit but I think because I'm adopted they've always kinda alienated me?" She shrugged, looking slightly unsure. "I'm not sure but sometimes I'm kept at arms length or there's just jabs at me not being a 'proper Coleman'."
She rolled her eyes at the notion. "Carrying on, the one time I tried bringing it up with Richard he flipped out so hard that I got grounded and so I never asked. Then he..."
"Passed away?" Jay offered, trying to say it for her when she struggled to.
She nodded. "Yeah, that. I thought they would change which they did but in a different way. I thought maybe it was their way of grieving but I don't know."
Jay remained standing, trying to formulate his thoughts and words. "Do you think it might be something else? And maybe it is their grief showing but if you had to choose."
She considered it, biting her lip as she tightly gripped her phone in hand.
"Uhm... I don't know, I guess I thought they'd be more torn over his death but they've been strangely talking about Mr and Mrs Casey a lot, especially their baby."
Jay's frown only encouraged her to continue. "I just thought it was their concern about the woman who they thought was their daughter-in-law but was actually married to a different man and her baby wasn't their grandchild but now I think."
She swallowed harshly, looking to the side before looking back at Jay with a grave look on her face. "Now I think they're also becoming obsessed with her."
*****
"That's good. I'm glad they're okay... I'll let you know when we get answers and what happens to the Coleman's afterwards... It's no problem at all Casey... Yeah, okay, bye."
Tucking her phone in her back pocket, walking back into the observation room where Voight and Adam were watching Edward Coleman.
Said man looked a little harried from his arrest but otherwise just looked disgruntled that he was being held. Across from him sat Jay who remained stoic, stone faced as he looked back at the older man as he waited for his partner so they could start the interrogation.
Just in time, in walked Hailey, several files in hand that she placed on the table, fixing their order before she looked up at their offender.
"The Casey's all good?" Adam asked, looking to his side as Kim settled between him and Voight before looking forward.
"Yeah, they met with Andy's actual paediatrician and went home. Y/N got checked out and is completely fine." Kim said, retelling what Matt told her over the phone. "Severide is gonna stay with them for a bit but the patrol units are already sitting outside their place as a precaution."
There was nothing left to say, the three of them re-focusing on the scene before them. Officers would sit outside your home just in case the Coleman family tried anything again, especially with their patriarch in intelligence custody. You and baby Andy were uninjured, some more trauma for you but your son luckily got his medicine and with time both of you would be fine.
"Edward Frank Coleman, 56 years old, married for thirty-three years to Eleanor Mildred Coleman with four kids, three biological and one adopted." Jay started, reading off of the first file, putting on a voice that made it obvious he was putting in a little extra dramatic flair.
"You've been a paediatric doctor for years now but you also co-own your deceased fathers accounting firm with your brother." Jay added, looking up to see his face before continuing. "This has been happening for around over ten years now and your both clearly making good money.
"That doesn't include your wife who is clearly a very successful wedding planner." Something about Jay's tone was off, clearly indicating that he was reading something he didn't like. "She now stays home mostly, managing bit teams but only big events lur her out. Otherwise she's... very clearly keeping herself busy."
Everyone's eyes went on the thick stack of papers that Jay set aside, the first page showing that it was their finances and bank details, tens of lines showing the luxuries she was indulging in.
"Carrying on, Richard was your eldest, a single pharmacist who was doing very well for himself. He was killed a month ago in a hit a run that has yet to be determined as manslaughter."
"What nonsense!" Edward exclaimed, looking furious and exasperated at the same time. "He's been gone a month and they haven't had the decency to say it was manslaughter, a mere accident like we all know it was"
Hailey and Jay looked at the man annoyed, their eyes meeting with the most deadpanned looks on their faces.
"The police are just doing their due diligence." Jay tried to placate the man. "But trust us when we say that we're taking over the investigation now and we'll be getting to the bottom of it."
Currently, Kevin was combing through camera footage and going through evidence, looking through the weird calls and suspicious amount of money being exchanged.
"Your second child, your daughter Eloise is a business graduate and is taking a year off to travel and apparently is taking a break to 'mourn'." Jay's incredulous tone and raised brow indicated he now did anyone else believe that.
"Your third child, adopted daughter Harper Johnson-Coleman is a high school sophomore. And finally your youngest son is a highschool freshman." Jay exhaled, setting the file aside as he grabbed the next one, not yet opening it as he looked at the older man.
"Care to say why you and your entire family claim that Y/N Casey is married to your bachelor son Richard?" Hailey asked, speaking up for the first time since she came. Her voice strict and stern, contrasting Jay's conversational tone.
Edward scoffed. "Of course they're married. He showed us their engagement and wedding pictures. He purposely kept his wife and new son away from us in spite and even after his death we barely even got to meet them!"
It was very hard for the detective duo to resist the urge to roll their eyes.
"Y/N Casey? Accomplished firefighter, married to Captain Casey for several years before the birth of their son?" Hailey argued back. "Up until Richard's lawyers reached out to her, she had no idea he or your entire family even existed."
As Hailey spoke, Jay opened the second file he held and handed several papers to Hailey who set them out in front on the table.
"CCTV footage shows your son at their wedding, getting drunk at the bar and obsessively taking pictures of Y/N - pictures we've found in his house with the captain cut out of." Hailey's fingers aggressively tapped the printed photo of Richard drinking at the bar of your wedding.
Edward's jaw hang open, speechless as he tried to come up with an argument.
"What about this? All these records that he somehow - illegally - found and kept of Y/N and her entire life. From her birth and health records to school reports and all her firefighting accommodations."
As Hailey went on, her volume raised as her frustrations increased.
"I don't know how but it's a miracle that he didn't get anything on their baby." The air was thick at the insinuation. "But we haven't gone through his entire house yet so maybe we missed his copies of the birth certificate and newborn pictures. Unless you have them?"
Edward was flustered, hastily replying, "He never showed us anything of the baby. He was especially prudent on its privacy."
Hailey clenched her jaw, intensely staring down the man who was continuously getting on her nerves.
"Mr, sorry, Doctor Coleman, did you know about your son was getting involved in the creation and distribution of illegal drugs?" Jay asked, flicking boredly through the next file as though it was a normal fictional book.
Edward jumped out his chair, infuriated as his face reddened and steam blew out his ears. "How dare you! My son is dead and you dare throw around this accusation?! I should sue you for this!"
Jay hummed, looking back at his partner amusedly. "Sue me you say? And with what inheritance money would you do that with- your sons or your brothers?"
The silence was so sick that Adam had to make sure the speaker was still working on their side.
"Oh we know everything Mr Coleman." Hailey said, taking the final file on the table, opening it and spreading all the papers all across the table for everyone to see.
"We know all about your arguments with your brother about full ownership on the company. We know all about your finances going to private investigators and mercenaries to get rid of him so you could take over and take full financial control but what you didn't anticipate was a rival gang targeting your son to take out the competition."
Hailey stood in front of the man, besides her partner who remained sitting, pointing to the multiple pieces of evidence that incriminated him as she maintained eye contact with him.
"The you and your family thought that you'd get all of Richard's money and property but you didn't expect his will to dictate that it went to the only person he ever cared about: the woman he was obsessed with and had a parasocial relationship with."
"All of a sudden, you remember that Richard told you he was married and with child when his lawyers tell you Y/N is his sole beneficiary. And so you and your wife concocted this elaborate plan so that you could receive the money."
Hailey was almost smug at his expression, watching as Edward dropped back into his chair, the shock and defeat radiating off of him.
"The plan to kill Y/N and take in her baby, raising him as your own with the benefits of Richard's inheritance becoming yours on behalf of being the carer of the baby who would inherit their lives."
Jay cleared his throat when Hailey finished, standing up as he added, "Word of advice, don't repeat the same plans you had from last time because the pattern becomes very obvious."
The handcuffs now dangling from Hailey's fingers left no room for arguments.
HAPPY NEW YEAR MY LOVESSSSS 💞💞💞💞
I love you all so much thank you all for the support and love this year for reading all of my works. I know there wasn’t a lot compared to my usual but hopefully in 2026 my health and personal life improve and I can write not just the fics I want and everything you all want to.
Once again thank you and here’s to the new year. Hopefully this year is our year! 🙂↕️🥰
Too much love (VI)
Warnings: Mentions of drugs, gangs, criminal activity, canon-typical violence
Summary: Just when you thought things couldn't get worse, your baby get sick.
A/N: Hello!!! Happy holidays and happy new year! This will be my last post of the year but don't worry, I'm going to try consistently posting and writing as much as I can next year as long as my health doesn't get in the way again. We're so close to the finish line and as much as I loved writing this I'm kinda glad it's ending because this has taken forever to write.
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The next day, Matt found himself back at Richard’s mansion but with just Kelly with him this time along with the members of intelligence that Kim had brought along with her.
Yesterday, after the incident in the basement, you all decided to go home and call Kim to update her on what happened. The officer asked multiple questions, some of which they didn’t have answers to but Matt volunteered to go with them to the house so that they could help them and to be sure the staff weren’t too alarmed.
When they got to the mansion, Kim had alongside her Adam, Kevin and Hailey who had been fully updated on the situation and had some questions of their own as they went around the house before Matt led them to the basement.
You and Andy were at home, having a lazy morning in bed, looking all warm, soft and cuddly under the blanket when Matt was getting ready to leave. The sight of his wife and son all happy and relaxed, and most importantly unharmed, made it really hard for Matt to want to leave.
Before Matt could even propose the idea of him going alone, you told him first that you didn't want to go, wanting to stay home with Andy and just relax, especially considering the day you guys had yesterday.
That thought was only solidified when you woke up this morning and Andy had been restless, not having slept throughout the night and was looking a little flushed, whines a consistent sound as nothing soothed him.
When Matt left the house, you told him that when he came back you two probably wouldn't be home. This was Andy's first time being sick and if he didn't get better then you were going to take him to the doctors.
Watching the officers and detectives examine Richard's illegal work, Matt wasn't sure how he felt, his emotions a kaleidoscope in his chest.
Part of him hated being here away from his wife and son when their baby was sick. Part of him despised this house and Richard who had brought all this unnecessary problems into their lives and the other part of him just wanted to have all of this over and done with so they could get rid of Richard one and for all.
"Okay so Richard Coleman was definitely a drug dealer, well-known and high in demand." Hailey told Kelly and Matt, walking away from the tables and its contents she'd been examining. "We've seen his logo all around Chicago but word of his death hasn't spread. I don't think anyone knows he's dead because his drugs are still being dealt all over."
Behind Hailey, Kevin was taking pictures of everything while Kim and Adam were bagging several things for evidence. It felt surreal how serious this all got so quickly and suddenly.
"Kim mentioned something about looking at the cause of his death?" Matt asked, crossing his arms as he thought it over. When you guys first asked her for help, she mentioned wanting to do some digging on her own.
"Yeah, she found his autopsy results." Hailey nodded. "He died from blunt force trauma - it was from a hit a run but whether that was an accident or not wasn't ruled out."
"No one looked too much into his cause of death but now it's definitely something we'll be doing." Kim added, leaving the two men to continue working as she took off her gloves and stood besides Hailey.
"There's a high chance that his death wasn't an accident."
*****
You were a ball of nerves, worry and anxiety.
Andy has always been a good baby, thank goodness. He was born a few days after his due date, he never had any colic or bad sleeping patterns and so far teething hadn't been too much of a problem so for him to suddenly be sick, it shook you a little.
His cries had stopped but barely, whines an almost constant no matter what you did or how much you tried soothing his pain. After a few hours of nothing working you made an appointment, unbothered if it was unnecessary and you were just being overly paranoid.
Arriving at the clinic where his paediatrician worked, you rocked him gently in his car seat. The entire car ride he'd been the most quiet he'd been all day and so you didn't want to take him out his seat.
Surrounding you, the waiting room was moderately busy. Multiple families, big and small, were scattered across the plastic chairs. Some parents looked harried while others were calm, kids a mix between full blown tantrums and looking miserably sick while others sat quietly and played with the few toys on the table in the far corner.
You winced at the sight of one of the kids putting a car in his mouth. This place was crawling in germs and for a second you feared that bringing Andy here would only make him more sick.
"Andrew Casey?"
A nurse in pale pink scrubs called from the front, hair clipped back with a clipboard in hand as she scanned the room in search of the aforementioned person.
"Yes, that's us." You stood up, picking up the car seat as well as the diaper bag, shrugging it on your shoulder as you made your way towards her.
"Perfect." She smiled a little, looking down at something on her clipboard. "Fourth room on the left, the doctor will be with you in a minute."
Thanking her, you repeated her instructions to yourself under your breath till your reached the door, entering the empty room that was plainly painted, a stark contrast to the very kid friendly corridors and waiting room.
Sighing, you placed the seat and diaper bag on the floor before sitting. Turning Andy's seat to face you, you frowned at your baby who now looked like he was too warm despite his cries twenty minutes ago when he was too cold.
"Oh baby, I'm so sorry. I know, being sick really sucks." You cooed, gently dragging your pinky finger down his nose. "Come here."
Unlocking the belt, you carefully picked him up, his legs scrunching a little as you settled him on your lap, his head instinctively resting on your chest.
You held your son close, swaying a little as you whispered to him, telling him everything but nothing at the same time. You couldn't wait for him to be a healthy baby again.
Mid story, the door opened without anyone knocking. The doctor walked in, dressed in a shirt and trousers with an iPad in hand.
You felt your heart picking up the pace, as if knowing something you didn't. Your hands held onto your baby closer as you finally laid eyes on the doctor.
"Mrs Casey, it's a pleasure to meet you again."
Doctor Edward Coleman, apparently a paediatrician who definitely wasn't the same doctor you'd been seeing since you gave birth. Edward Coleman, the father of Richard Coleman who you had seen not too long ago when you and Matt visited him and his family.
"Oh! Isn't this just wonderful. This must be your son Andrew, it's so nice of you to bring him with you this time."
The adrenaline was now pumping through your veins, your body thrumming with tension that wasn't dissimilar to when you were running into fires.
The locking of the door thundered, causing so much fear that you found yourself glued to the seat, unable to move an inch to even continue rocking Andy.
"So I was told that baby Andrew here is feeling sickly, why don't you lay him down and I'll take a look at him."
His smile was disarming. His fake cheery demeanour a complete 180 from the hostile father you had met.
There was no way in hell you were letting go of your baby.
The next few minutes went by in a blur but you think it went something like this.
With Andy still cradled to your chest, you rushed to the door not even four steps away from you. Trying your best not to trip over the baby seat and diaper bag you reached to unlock the door but was suddenly dragged backwards by a harsh hand on your wrist.
Pushing him away with all the strength of your non-dominant hand, you tried stepping around him. You had your age and job against him, being much more agile and stronger than him.
As gently as you could, you swapped Andy in your arms, pushing your attacker against his spinney chair as you lunged towards the door.
Hand on the lock, you fumbled when something flew by you hitting the wall just inches from your face.
Unlocking the door, you hastily pulled the door open and ran not daring to look back as you tried to remember which way you came in.
Running down the corridor, you ignored the feet stomping behind you as you found the waiting room and ran forward, eyes searching for anything or anyone safe but all you could find was mothers and their sick children-
Standing at the front desk, talking to the same nurse from before was a very familiar group of people but the relief was short-lived when the steps behind you got louder.
Wasting no time, you vaulted yourself towards the group, letting yourself crash into two men whose arms caught you instantly.
"Woah!"
"Oh my-"
"Y/N?!"
You pushed yourself between the two men who you found to be Matt and Kelly, their eyes focused on you.
"He- He attacked me." You stuttered, breathless as you blinked back the tears. One hand clutched Andy while the other grabbed Matt's bicep. "It's Coleman- Richard's dad, he tried, tried to-"
All six of them, you just now noticing that Kim, Hailey, Adam and Kevin were also here, snapped their heads to look at the dishevelled man was was standing not too far from them.
The intelligence officer immediately flipped into action, brandishing their guns and they started surrounding him and saying all these things that flew over your head.
Breathing heavily, you collapsed into Matt who held you so close, so tightly that you found it hard to breathe but you didn't have it in you to try moving.
Between you, Andy finally settled, whines and sniffles all gone. His wide eyes looked up at his parents, unknowing to why his mother was shaking and why his dad was on the verge of losing it if it wasn't for Kelly shielding the small family from the chaos.
Everything around you drowned away, the ringing in your ear getting louder as you screwed your eyes closed.
Later, Matt would tell you that when they were at the mansion, Matt got a call from an unknown number. When he answered, the voice of a Richard's adopted sister greeting him with worry laced in her words.
She quickly explained how she heard her parents talking this morning about you, mentioning things along the lines of drugs, taking a baby and a lot more that she couldn't say in pure disgust and fear of what Matt would do if he found out what they said about his wife and son.
Matt then checked his messages, finding you just texted that you were taking Andy to the doctors, he wasted no time telling everyone before they were driving off to the doctors clinic.
They had been at the front desk, Matt just about to confirm his ID that he was Andy's father when you came sprinting around the corner.
Later, Kim would tell you and Matt that they took Edward into custody to question him and they had called Voight and the rest of intelligence so they could make this a fully fledged investigation.
Apparently, Voight wasted no time in warrants, sending Jay and Hailey to the Coleman home to question the wife and kids while everyone went back to start looking properly deep into this family.
To think that all of this happened just because Andy got sick, it was all a little difficult to comprehend.
One positive though, a different doctor, Andy's actual paediatrician prescribed some antibiotics and Andy was back to normal just a few days later.
Too much love (V)
Warnings: Minor violence, minor/canon-typical injuries, swearing, obsessive behaviour
Summary: You thought you had all the keys into Richard's life, but that couldn't be any further from the truth.
A/N: Hello! So it's been a few months since I put this series on pause but with the holidays starting and half my assignments done I thought I would get a bunch of writing done while I have free time. There's not too long left till we're finished so I hope you guys all enjoy!!
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At the end of shift, you explained everything to Matt who had agreed and asked a few others to join both of you to go to Richard's house. It was better to be prepared for the worst case scenario, especially considering the few things you heard his younger sister say in regards to you.
To say Matt was furious when he heard about Richard's adoration and almost parasocial relationship with you, would be the understatement of the century.
The next day, after sleeping in for as long as Andy would allow, you got ready to finally go to Richard's house. Unsure of what would be waiting for you, a few others from the firehouse offered to join you in case anything happened.
It was just under an hour drive from home and turning onto his road, you could instantly tell he was in a very different tax bracket by the very few houses, the endless driveways, expensive cars on display and houses that you thought only celebrities could afford.
Matt slowed the car as you approached the gate that apparently belonged to Richard. Picking up the keys you were given yesterday, you leaned forward to scan the black card on what could've been a card reader but you weren't too sure.
After a few seconds of silence, the gates opened, the metal not making a single sound as it slowly greeted you.
Sharing a nervous glance with Matt, he continued driving forward, the few cars behind you following you in at a crawl.
What was technically the front yard was several acres of greenery that was well kept, trees, bushes and floral gardens indicating someone had been here not too long ago.
Next, you approached an elaborate fountain, water trickling out and around softly. The stone flowers and vines so intricate it could only belong in a museum.
Stepping out the truck, the gravel crunched under everyone's feet, the mansion looming ominously above you all. It all felt too intimidating, especially for blue collared workers like firefighters, a group that only knew a life of public service.
Matt sidled up besides you, Andy clipped in the baby wrap, sitting comfortably on Matt's chest. Both of their eyes were wide, their expressions almost identical despite Andy being clueless to the happenings around him.
Kelly whistled lowly as he came to stand next to Matt, Stella with him. "All of this is now yours... It all feels a little too good to be true."
Everyone hummed in agreement, Sylvie, Joe and Mouch completing the group.
Psyching yourself up, you slowly walked forward, fiddling with the keys to look for the key to unlock the front door. Charlotte, Richard's adoptive sister, was kind enough to label what each key was used for.
Before you could even insert the key, the handle twisted and one of the double doors was opened for you.
Stepping back, you collided into Stella's front, her hands catching you before you could fall.
Standing in the door was a man and women dressed in a monochrome uniform, their greying hairs ironically matching.
"Welcome. You must be Ms Y/N. Master Coleman said to expect you."
Your heart was thundering out your chest. This felt like the start of a horror movie.
"Yes, I'm Y/N." You cleared your throat, clutching Stella's hand in a tight grip. "This is my husband Matt and some of our family."
"Come in, come in, you are all welcome." The woman gestured as they both stepped aside. "I am Lisa, the housekeeper and this is my brother William, Master Richard's personal butler. The rest of our family also work for Master Richard, they're all around the property working currently."
You nodded absentmindedly as you took in the interior of the foyer that was way too grand.
Following behind the pair, you felt the urge to break the silence and make conversation. "So, if you don't mind me asking, how long have you been working here?"
William answered as he held open another set of doors for all of you to walk through. "Our parents met each other working here, so when they got married and had kids we all grew up here and it was natural for us to take over when our parents retired."
You hummed, unsure of what to reply, still feeling a little awkward but not wanting to come across rude. You were their new 'employer' of sorts and you wanted their first impression of you to be good.
"Would you like any refreshments?" Lisa asked as she led you further into the mansion, her posture as perfect as her manners.
"No thank you." Matt replied for you. "If you don't mind, we'd like to take a look around."
"It's more than fine, you don't even need to ask." William nodded politely. "If you need any help, all of us will be scattered around, so please don't hesitate to ask."
*****
Everyone set off into the groups they came in to cover more ground, in hopes that altogether, you could see the house and debrief together afterwards.
You felt like you were walking in circles. All the rooms so grand and similar in interior and furniture that it was hard to differentiate.
The living room lacked any personality. It all seemed so old and general. All the paintings hung on the walls were of scenic fields, historical people and random animals. It was all creeping you out even more.
As you ventured further into the mansion, your grip on Matt's hand tightened. The more you learnt about Richard, the more you hated him and this entire inheritance situation.
Currently, you and Matt were stood in what looked like Richard's study. The walls all lined in floor to ceiling bookshelf's, a large mahogany desk that was covered in clutter, books still open and papers strewn all across. It was the only thing out of place but otherwise the entire mansion was too clean. For some reason, no one had come in here and decided to clear up his work.
"That's weird." You said, eyes stuck on the desk. There was a feeling you had as you stared at it that you just couldn't shake off.
Matt hummed, his hand rubbing Andy's back who had his eyes wide as he took interest in his new surroundings. "What sort of work does a pharmacist do to make this much money?"
Just as you were going to move forward, you stepped on a loose floorboard and all of a sudden, the floor beneath you was gone.
All your breath escaped you, you and Matt tumbling down a set of wooden stairs that appeared out of literal thin air.
Matt grunted as you finally reach solid ground, landing on his back as you landed on his front.
"Oh my god! My baby are you okay?!" You couldn't even comprehend what just happened. As soon as you opened your eyes, you were met with Andy who was still wrapped in his baby sling, resting on Matt's chest, the exact place you landed.
"I didn't hurt you did I? Matt take him out, let me see him." Pushing yourself up, your didn't even bother with all the dust covering you.
Ignoring the pulsing pain in your arms and legs, you impatiently watched as Matt untangled the baby wrap, letting you take your son who looked only slightly bothered but as soon as he saw you, his bottom lips started trembling and the waterworks were instant.
"Oh baby, mummy's so sorry. I'm so sorry Andy, it's okay." You cooed, cradling him close to your chest. "Was that scary? I'm so sorry baby, you're okay now."
Pressing tens of kisses on his head, you intently looked at him for a single hair out of place but the most you found was dust. Since he was between you and Matt, he was protected from all damage but emotional. The sudden spinning must've scared the hell out of him.
Sighing in relief, you cradled him to your chest, swaying and saying sweet nothings till his cries stopped.
Heart still beating out your chest, you forced your eyes away from your son to your husband who was looking at both of you in concern.
"Are you okay?" You whispered, trying not to disturb Andy whose eyes were starting to droop.
"I'm good." Matt nodded as he stood, wiping off the dust on his clothes. "Definitely going to bruise though. What about you?"
"Yeah, probably just going to bruise tomorrow. It doesn't hurt too much." You replied, taking his outstretched hand as you took a minute to take in the stock of your body.
"Good. That's good." Matt tugged you towards you, hugging you close as you both caught your breaths. Kissing your temple he murmured, "We're okay, Andy's not hurt, you can relax babe."
And relax you did, slightly. You let most the tension fade, your head resting against Matt's shoulder, allowing yourself to just exist in his arms as your baby slumbered, his breathy snores the only sound in the room.
Speaking of room.
"Matt where are we?" You asked, eyes shut as tension reappeared in your body. After such an intense few minutes, you didn't want to face whatever disaster you stumbled upon.
Reluctantly, Matt picked up his head from where it rested on yours and looked around the room that looked more like a basement that was neatly organised with multiple tables and boxes but the rest of it had him speechless.
"Fuck."
Matt's swear caught you off guard, your eyes flying open to see what got your captain swearing.
Your heart wasn't even in your body anymore, it wasn't even in this stupid mansion.
"Matt! Y/N! You guys okay?! Where'd ya'll go?!"
Kelly's shout was faint but gradually got louder, a few other voices joining his that you could barely make out.
By now, everyone had probably looked around the entire mansion and were looking for you. You guys were supposed to meet back, talk about what you all found and then leave, hopefully never coming back again.
Kissing your forehead, Matt forced himself to let you go, making sure you were still in his eyesight as he walked towards the wooden stairs, a few having broken when you fell, to shout up. "Kelly! We're in here!"
It didn't take long till you heard the study door opening, their steps loud above you before they appeared. Kelly, Stella and Sylvie's head appearing above you in the space where you had fallen.
"What the hell happened here? You guys okay?" Kelly asked, concern on his face as he looked down on the dusty family of three.
"We're good - Andy's perfect and we're a little bruised." Matt said, motioning for them to come down. "We fell but you have to come down here."
Their concerned looks only deepened. Your friends carefully going down the stairs, taking their time to go over the broken planks.
"Woah." Joe expressed everyone's speechlessness once they all made it to the basement.
"Richard wasn't a pharmacist." Stella said, cautiously walking forward, being careful not to touch anything.
"He was literally making and dealing drugs."
Traditions
Warnings: None
Summary: A look at the traditions your family made and passed down over the years.
A/N: Hello my lovelies!! Writing this because tomorrows my birthday and I was in the mood for something with holiday vibes. I have a bunch of ideas but not a lot of time to write them so I hope that with the winter holidays I'll get a bunch of writing done. Anyways, I hope you enjoy!!!
Her entire body ached, eyes heavy as she blinked away the sleep and limbs even heavier as she tried to orientate herself. It was all slowly coming back to her, eyes widening in alarm as she tried locating her-
There they were. Her newborn baby, her daughter all swaddled up with a pink cap, skin no longer grimy and red. She slept, dead to the outside world in the bassinet besides the bed.
Besides the two of them, the room was entirely empty, no longer filled with the doctor and nurses that had been there when she fell asleep. A person that was also missing was her husband.
Looking around for her phone, trying her best not to make too much noise the door opened and closed softly, her husband walking in with a bag in hand.
"Morning, good sleep?" He asked, smiling adoringly at his wife and daughter, setting the bag aside as he sat on the space by her knees on the bed.
She hummed, smiling sleepily at the man. "Yeah but I'm really hungry now."
"Just in time." Her husband replied as he took out a container from the bag, moving it before opening the container.
She gasped, smiling wide as tears filled her eyes, tears that she would completely blame on the hormones.
"Chai cinnamon rolls. You remembered?" Her voice was low, pressing multiple kisses on her husbands cheek.
"Do I remember the tradition of your mum and her mum having their husbands bake these cinnamon rolls at every birth and every birthday? Of course I did."
This was their first child, and it also happened to be the first child on her side of the family and so this specific tradition hadn't been upheld besides her father baking her cinnamon rolls every birthday.
"Thank you so much." She said in between bites, practically moaning as she ate. "I could never get sick of these. Next year, you're baking these for her first."
Her husband hummed, simply enjoying watching his wife devour several cinnamon rolls as their daughter continued to sleep contently besides them.
He'd be more than happy to continue baking for his children for as long as he lived.
*****
Children's laughter rang loud in the backyard as they ran around ragged, the occasional scream as they got a bit too excited.
The house was full of life, the entire family gathered to celebrate the birthday of the first child, grandchild and niece.
"Kids! It's time for cake!" Your mother shouted from the backdoor, expertly stepping aside to avoid being trampled on as they all ran indoors in a stampede.
"Okay calm down! Y/N come sit here." Your grandma called for you, holding out a hand to walk you over to the other end of the table where the cake would sit.
Sitting comfortably on the chair, unable to stop fidgeting from excitement, eyes bouncing across the people gathering in front of you and around the table all in preparation to sing as your mum fumbled with the camera.
"Happy birthday to you!"
Your smile brightened, almost blinding everyone as your dad set down a large plate in front of you, five candles burning in the collection of cinnamon rolls.
"Happy birthday to Y/N!"
You looked back and forth from the cinnamon rolls to your family crowding the table, their smiles rivalling yours as they continued singing, your father moving to the side so all the attention was solely on you.
"Happy birthday to you!"
Everyone cheered, claps drowned out in the whistles as you wasted no time blowing out the candles, putting in extra effort when the last one was acting too stubborn, all their claps doubling when they were all blown out.
You were smiling so hard it could be forever ingrained on your cheeks. Your dad came back around, taking the candles out and handing you a plastic knife, telling you to hold it.
Taking it from him, you simply looked at him and he smiled back, placing his hand on top of yours to help you cut into the cinnamon roll 'cake'.
A paper plate appeared out of nowhere, your dads hand guiding you to drop the roll. Waiting patiently, you opened your mouth wide, ignoring everyone's laughter as you looked at your dad imploringly, his chuckles following as he grabbed a spoon and fed you the first bite.
Humming, wiggling side to side, you took the spoon from him, ripping into the cinnamon roll to feed him back. His smile to warm and reverent that you didn't even link an eye it was so familiar to you.
"Hmm, it's so good!" You continued eating, watching as everyone else was receiving their own slices and started eating the other desserts too. "Thank you so much daddy!"
"Your most welcome Y/N."
*****
Smiling to yourself, you impatiently ripped into the packaged box that was just delivered to you. It had all your information written down but no one was replying to your messages.
But you had a small inkling about what it could be, but it was a toss between one of your siblings sending you your gift or it could be-
Yeah, there it was.
Chucking the cardboard box aside, uncaring for where it landed, your eyes watered slightly as you uncovered the extremely wrapped container, so meticulously sealed that it could only be from one person.
The smell hit you first, the familiar scent of cinnamon sugar and chai, the nostalgia hitting you head on.
Prying the lid open, you stared in awe at the multiple rows of cinnamon rolls, the love practically oozing out in waves. Reading the card attached, you tried your best not to cry but it was hard.
It was your first birthday not living at home. You still lived in the same state but you had to move cities for your new job and so you didn't get to see your parents, siblings and just your family in general as much as you used to.
But despite the distance, your dad still baked the chai cinnamon rolls he had been baking since you were born, keeping up the tradition for your siblings as well.
No matter how many birthdays had passed, you could never get sick of the soft rolls and the warm taste of the spices. It would never get old.
It was a good thing you were fully unpacked now. These would be perfect once warmed and with a warm drink.
There was no way these were lasting the entire week.
*****
The bullpen was slowly coming to life. It wasn't too early in the morning, everyone arriving at their own time. Hank was already in his office with his door open, Jay was settling down at his desk while talking to Kevin who had just come in. Kim and Adam were in the break room brewing coffee as they one by one made their way in, Hailey was flicking through several folders and papers she hadn't sorted out the day before and you were making your way in, hands full with a big container.
"Happy birthday Y/N!" Kim shouted, arms wide open as she left her desk to give you the biggest hug. Squishing you so you complained about breathing and you were moving side to side.
You couldn't help your laughter, thanking her as everyone followed, wishing you the happiest of birthday and forming a line to envelope you in hugs that could rival a very special someone.
Cheeks flushed and hurting, you set the container down on your desk, taking your jumper off, Jay taking it without asking to fold and put it away.
"Ooh, what's this?" Adam asked, curiosity bleeding off his words.
Unable to get rid of your smile, you wasted no time in indulging everyone's curiosity. Opening the container, you let everyone ooh and aah over the contents.
"Every birthday since I was born, my dad has baked me and my sibling these chai cinnamon rolls." You explained. "It was a tradition my great-grandma started because it was her craving after she gave birth and my great-grandad made it this thing that's become a tradition."
You cheesed, everyone softening at the prospect, multiple comments being made about how adorable it was and it was a wonderful and most definitely a yummy tradition.
"Dig in guys." You gestured to the overfilled container. "My dad always makes double the recipe since I moved out. We've been working so much recently that I don't want them to go bad at home, so I brought them here."
Not wasting any time, everyone thanked you, asking to extend their thanks to your dad. Taking a roll each, the silence was short lived as everyone moaned, declaring their love at how good it was.
"I'll definitely let him know." You said, biting into your own roll. "He'll be so happy you guys are loving them."
As everyone ate, you explained to them how your father secretly got the recipe from your grandad without your mothers knowledge, your granddad secretly getting it from your great-grandfather. All these decades passed and none of the women knew how it happened and none of the women could find the recipe.
And if there was a special someone listening with a keen ear, watching you intently as you savoured the cinnamon roll, then that was only for him to know.
*****
Her entire body ached, eyes heavy as she blinked away the sleep and limbs even heavier as she tried to orientate herself. It was all slowly coming back to her, eyes widening in alarm as she tried locating her-
There they were. Her newborn baby, her son all swaddled up with a blue cap, skin no longer grimy and red. He slept, dead to the outside world in the bassinet besides the bed.
Besides the two of them, the room was entirely empty, no longer filled with the doctor and nurses that had been there when she fell asleep. A person that was also missing was her husband.
Looking around for her phone, trying her best not to make too much noise the door opened and closed softly, her husband walking in with a bag in hand.
"Hey, where did you go?" You said, making sure to speak quietly so as to not wake the newborn beside you.
Jay smiled at you, all soft and mushy. He sat on the bed, placing the bag on the floor after he took out a container you didn't recognise.
"I went home quickly, grabbed you a present." His smile didn't change but there was a slight change in emotion. Was that nervousness?
"I thought we agreed my push present was going to be a very bougie holiday?" You replied, confused because he confirmed that he would gift you the exact holiday abroad you wanted.
"This is a little different." Was all he said, nudging your hands with the container for you to take it.
Searching his face for any possible tells, trying to find an answer in his expression, you folded, taking the container and opening it swiftly.
You got your answer instantly. You knew exactly what it was, the smell and sight so familiar it was ingrained in your olfactory nerves.
"Jay." Your voice cracked, eyes welling up as you looked back up at your husband speechlessly.
"Your dad gave me the recipe." The emotions on Jay's face make it clear he was quite proud at what he accomplished. "The first birth and birthday since we got married."
You had gotten pregnant a few months before you got married which meant you hadn't spent your birthday as a married couple yet. You were also the eldest sibling and the first the be married, so your dad continued to bake for all his children. And now with your son being born...
"You can't do this to me." You croaked, tears falling but being swept away by Jay's thumbs. "I just gave birth and am really hormonal."
"It's okay baby." Jay's adoration and love for you was palpable. Kissing between your brows, his eyes crinkled, "Come on, eat your chai cinnamon rolls."
And you did, expertly breaking it off and taking the first bite. Your moan was loud but you didn't care. It was still warm and it filled your body pleasantly, a feeling and taste you had loved since you were born.
"I love you so much Jay." You said, food still in your mouth. "Thank you so much."
"I love you too Y/N." Jay squeezed you elbow, more than content to sit here and watch you eat, your hunger hitting you for the first time since you gave birth.
"Keeping up this tradition was the least I could do."
Mafia husband
Warnings: Mentions of mob/mafia business, mentions of canon-typical violence
Summary: You're getting married to the love of your life, but some things still aren't lining up.
A/N: Hello lovelies! So this can be read as a sequel to 'mafia boyfriend' but it can also be read as a standalone too. All of the Italian translation came from google so I'm sorry for any mistakes. This is a very long one at over 5,500 words but I've had this idea for quite a while so I hope you all enjoy!!
Violet, Sylvie and Joe were walking up the apron together, talking about what they did during their off days as were the few others who were also arriving to work. Kelly and Matt were already fully dressed and looked deep in conversation near the truck while Ritter and Gallo were behind the others as they walked from across the road.
No one was paying too much attention to you, getting out of Enzo's car, rounding it to speak to him from his window but what was starting to pique Violet and Sylvie's interest was how long the conversation seemed to go on for, and the very intense kiss he pulled you in for before very reluctantly driving away but not before reverently kissing your left hand.
With a smitten look on your face, an expression they were all very familiar with over the past two years, you spun around way too gleefully for how early in the morning it was, your smile widening at the sight of the two paramedics.
Before anyone could exchange any pleasantries with you, from where you stood, you held up your left hand and despite the distance, everyone could easily tell what you were showing off.
The paramedics squealed, you giggling after them as you rushed towards them, your held still held out towards their grabby hands while the men watched on bewildered.
"Ohmygosh!" Their squeals overlapped as they both gawked over the rock on your finger, admiring it as they expressed their happiness and shock before suffocating you in their embrace.
You just continued laughing, revelling in their reactions.
After the men deemed it safe enough, they all slowly started crowding around to see what all the fuss was but you couldn't even get a word in before you were being answered for.
"Y/N's engaged!" Violet exclaimed as Sylvie held your hand out, you wiggling your fingers to show all the men.
Once again, their exclamations were indistinguishable, they were all so loud and happy, their congratulations lost among each other as they all took turns admiring your ring.
Gallo whistled while Hermann nodded with a very impressed look on his face. "Now that is a rock! Mr Enzo did a damn good job."
"We're so happy for you Y/N." Matt congratulated you. "You deserve this but-"
Boos echoed as the captain smiled apologetically at the group of firefighters, "We have morning briefing in less than ten and none of ya'll are changed, get going and then we can hound for more details, alright?"
"Yeah, I'll show you the video his brother took before breakfast." You added on, a sly, knowing smile on your face as you looked expectingly at their faces.
The girls pulled you into the firehouse and towards the locker room quicker than physically possible.
*****
You and Enzo walked hand in hand in the back garden. You were at his childhood mansion home where you moved into last year. All his brothers still lived here but with how scattered their job and yours was, it wasn't often that everyone was in the house altogether.
You also grew up with a big family, not as big as theirs but close enough. It was nostalgic and comforting to always be with people after years of living alone.
You were coming to the end of your four days off, your next shift way too early the next day. Ever since Enzo was young, he said their mother and father always made sure they had one dinner altogether and even after their parents died, it was a tradition that was upheld. The brothers always made sure to make time and when you seamlessly joined their family unit, they were more than happy to accommodate around your very unusual job hours.
Usually, you, Enzo and two of his brothers would cook this dinner together but they did it without you today, surprising you when you came downstairs and everything was already set up for you. As usual though, the dinner was great, the dessert to die for and the company being the cherry on top.
All his younger brothers, he was the eldest of seven, insisted on cleaning everything up, forcing you and Enzo out the kitchen and dining room, forbidding you from touching a single fork.
You were dressed simply, in a cream skirt with blue floral designs and a baby blue knit cardigan, not having time to change after taking your sister out for coffee away from the nightmare of her college dorm.
Similarly, neither did Enzo have any time to change after finishing work early and picking you and your sister up, still in his dress shirt and trouser but he looked way too good. If you could you'd make it illegal for anyone to even look at him, you wanted him all for yourself.
As you walked further from the house, the bickering of his brothers died away so that all you could hear was the occasional bird and the almost silent steps of your feet on the freshly cut grass.
Leaning your head on his firm bicep, you had to actively prevent yourself from biting it, closing your eyes as you enjoyed the final moments of peace before you were thrown back into an intense few weeks of work.
Opening your eyes, you were about to say something to him but all words died in your throat as you lay eyes on the picturesque scene before you.
The fountain that Enzo's father designed and built for Enzo's mother was always a beauty but under the starry night sky, along with the glittering running water and the new additions of floral arrangements that you couldn't've even imagined to exist if not for Enzo.
So caught up in admiring the sight before you, you failed to feel Enzo moving beside you, only noticing when you turned to ask him what it was all for.
You couldn't even think of any words, you brain failing to compute at what your eyes were seeing.
Blinking rapidly, your eyes started watering just looking at the love of your life down on one knee. He looked like all your dreams coming true.
You were so overwhelmed with emotions and love that you barely registered anything he said - and you were very lucky that his brothers were secretly recording so that you could watch back and sob again like a little baby at his speech - but before you could even think, he was opening a small box to reveal the most perfect ring.
"Please Y/N, Will you marry me?"
If only the rest of the underworld could see the esteemed mafia boss, kneeling before a woman, ready to beg for her hand in marriage, they would all collectively lose their minds.
You choked back a sob, nodding rapidly, your answer quieter than a whisper, but it was clear as day to Enzo whose focus was solely on you.
Losing feeling in your legs, your knees buckled as you went crashing into his arms, ignoring the ring in your desperation to kiss the life out of him.
Standing up, Enzo swept you into his arms, stopping your skirt from even touching the grass. Your legs locking around him as you kissed him with such strong emotion all he could do was give it back tenfold.
Pulling away slightly, your hands around his neck, one of his rested on your backside as he held out the ring in the other, indicating for your hand.
Sliding the ring on, the fit was perfect, making your smile widen even more if that was even possible. The tears continued to slowly fall down your cheeks and you couldn't help but giggle at the glisten in his eyes.
"My fiancé." You whispered reverently, the awe bright in your words as you stared adoringly into his eyes where his love for you was painted boldly.
His chuckled reverberated, his chest almost vibrating against yours. "Soon-to-be wife."
Your breath caught, your exhale shaky at his words. You could only kiss his senselessly in reply.
The cheers of his brothers brought the two of you back down to earth, your cheeks hurting from how big your smile was.
Reluctantly letting you down, his brothers wasted no time in running forward and almost jumping Enzo in their excitement at their eldest brother finally proposing and soon enough, you found yourself in a similar state, enveloped in their loving arms as they congratulated and welcomed their soon-to-be sister-in-law.
"Oh pickles! Y/N that was so gorgeous I can't stop crying, I'm so happy for you."
"Aw Sylvie thank you so much!"
"Y/N that was so fairy-tale coded I need to give that man his flowers in person."
*****
You and Enzo both decided to have a year long engagement, making it so that you were together for four years before getting married.
In the typical fashion of Enzo’s family, wedding planning was organised chaos. Both you and Enzo have certain non-negotiable’s and obviously some traditions from each side of your families that had to be upheld.
And then your families obviously had to be involved. Enzo’s brothers, of course, were excited as anything, this being the first marriage in their family since their aunt got married when they were kids and his younger brothers weren’t even born yet. Adding in your own big family, your sisters and brothers along with aunts and uncles being all over the moon that someone in your family was finally getting married.
So far, some details had been ironed out, such as the venue and the guest list. The guest list consisted of all your families and close friends. So obviously for you, all of 51 and for Enzo, his childhood friends, and his work colleagues that he had known since they worked with his dad.
The whole ‘destination wedding’ was obvious, and after much convincing that Enzo would handle the cost of everyone’s flights and accommodation, you conceded to having the wedding in Italy.
Two months after your engagement, you booked a few wedding dress appointments. You had already been to three boutiques before this one, this had been recommended by Enzo’s fraternal aunt, apparently they had ties to a bridal boutique back in Italy.
Like the other appointments, you had your mum, your sisters and Stella, Sylvie, and Violet. For the first time, you also had Enzo’s aunt who had been too busy with work and wouldn’t budge an inch when Enzo tried to ask for any hints.
“Bianca! I’m so happy you could finally make it.” You exclaimed, rushing to hug Enzo’s aunt who you hadn’t seen since before your engagement.
Your three friends looked over curiously, having never met any of Enzo's extended family besides some of his brothers.
The woman had dark burgundy hair looking professionally curled, dark eyeshadow along with eyeliner that was perfectly symmetrical. She had a dark brown fur coat that when she took it off to hand it to the staff uncovered a deep red turtleneck, flared black pants and black heels. She had a huge diamond on her ring finger and her nails were painted a bloody red.
You were stood on the elevated stage, already trying on dresses that you and everyone else picked from the hangers.
"Oh! My cucciola! You look just stunning!" She gushed, showering you in kisses, trying not to squeeze you too hard aware of the expensive dress you were in.
"Bellissima! Our Enzo will not know what hit him. Mio nipote rimarrà senza parole!" (my nephew will be speechless)
You blushed, cheeks almost as red as her nails. "This dress definitely isn't the one but yeah, I'm really excited."
"Would you like to try another?" One of the women who was helping you, asked.
You nodded, picking up the dress to step down. "Yeah we have the one my mum chose and the one my aunt - Bianca - picked ahead of time.”
The woman looked confused for a second, looking back at Bianca for a few seconds before the realisation hit her, her eyes widening to the point where her eyes probably could've popped out its socket.
"Oh yes! Bianca Ferraro! My manager was the one who spoke to you on the phone. Let me quickly ask her to grab what you asked for." She smiled, letting the woman next to her help you back to the dressing room.
Left alone, Bianca finally sat down on the plush couch, smiling invitingly at your three friends. "Ciao! My name is Bianca, I am Enzo's aunt, his father's sister. I apologise for my English, I only visit for business so it's not the best."
Stella smiled, shaking her hand, Violet and Sylvie doing the same. "No your English is really good. I'm Stella, this is Violet and Sylvie. We're Y/N's friends, we work together."
"Ah! So you are all firefighters?" She asked, crossing one leg over the other, taking a glass of champagne.
"Stella's a firefighter, me and Sylvie are paramedics." Violet corrected with a smile, scared at offending the woman who looked so rich that it felt weird to be sat next to her.
Bianca hummed, her eyes scanning the room before they fell on your mother and sisters. "So sorry, let me say hello to her family - I will be back."
Watching Bianca walk up to your family, your mother and sisters all getting up to exchange hugs with bright smiles.
"So, she's obviously rich." Violet said under her breath so that only Stella and Sylvie could hear.
"I mean, we know Enzo is a CEO so the whole family must be well off." Sylvie whispered back, fiddling with the stem of the champagne flute.
Before Stella could add anything, you were walking back in a new dress, the assistant holding a veil behind you.
Everyone gasped, staring at you in awe.
Stepping up on the platform, your smile was blinding, your hands reverently touching the white lace embellishments on your corset.
When you asked for the veil, the sales assistant clipped it to the back of your head, the room falling into silence instantly.
Your mum was crying, her sniffles loud as your sister squeezed her hand as hard as she could trying her best not to follow.
"This is the one."
*****
The day before everyone's four days off, you flew out to Italy with Enzo, his brothers and your immediate family. Everyone else would be flying out the next day.
There were a few final details that needed to be ironed out before everyone landed. Upon your family's insistence, you and Enzo wouldn't be allowed to see each other the day before the wedding, so the time you two were spending talking to caterers, looking at the venue and much much more was spent with your hands held at all times.
Despite the fact that you would do 48-hour shifts and Enzo could be gone on business trips for days at a time, he was being very clingy, almost whining when you tried to go somewhere without him.
This wasn't your first time here in Italy. You had come a few times to visit Enzo's home town, meeting some of his family and coming along for some business events when time permitted it.
Enzo organised everything for the guests. His family would be in their own homes while he and his brothers would be staying in their childhood home. You and your family would be staying in the villa they also owned while all your extended family and friends would be staying at a hotel nearby that the family also owned. Any of Enzo's friends and business associates would be flying in on the day.
The schedule went as so: on the first day everyone would settle down and have the rehearsal dinner in the evening. The second day would be the wedding which would take up the whole day. The third day would be for everyone to rest and relax, maybe go around town to be a typical tourist and on the fourth day everyone would get ready to fly home while you and Enzo would get ready to start your honeymoon.
You, Enzo and his brothers had been in Sicily for a few hours now, enough time to rest, refresh and start getting things going. With the help of Enzo's cousins that lived here, you were in the church, just having finished talking to the priest when one of Enzo's cousins approached him, whispering something to him in Italian that you couldn't hear.
Enzo's face didn't give anything away, he just said something in reply before his cousin walked away. He thanked the priest, which you also did, stumbling slightly over your Italian before Enzo was leading you outside.
"Is everything okay?" You asked, flexing your fingers where they sat comfortably in the crook of his arm.
"Yes, everything is perfect tesoro. He just wanted to say something about work but I told him to handle it, The next two weeks are just for us, nothing will get in the way, te lo prometto." (I promise you)
You smiled up at him sweetly, letting him press several kisses to your temple, giggling as he spun you into his arms and showered your face in hundreds more.
Your laugh echoed loudly in the large open space. The two of you were alone, none of his brothers or other family members to be seen, all too busy in wedding prep.
"Amore mio..." He said between kisses. "We are alone for the first time in a very long time. We don't need to see the caterers for at least another hour..."
You blushed at his suggestive tone. "Take me home baby."
*****
The next evening, everyone was getting ready for the rehearsal dinner.
Everyone flew in earlier in the day and were more than settled. When you managed to find the time, you quickly stopped by the hotel to check in on how they were all doing.
To say they were slightly overwhelmed would be an understatement. They felt bad for staying at such a fancy hotel without paying a dime, along with not being allowed to contribute to the flights upon Enzo's insistence.
The rehearsal started when the sun was still up, the summer making it feel as though it was still midday. The crowd was of a decent size, yours and Enzo's close families and both of your friends. Despite that, you were obviously the centre of attention.
With your hand in Enzo's, head resting against his arm as you watched him, completely infatuated, as he spoke to his grandmother. You were dressed in a elegant ivory midi dress with long sheer arms, your hair cascading in beach waves, half of which were pinned up by an intricate clip.
None of them had seen you glow this much, it was sort of surreal.
The rehearsal went by smoothly, all mistakes easily ironed out. Your bridesmaids - your sisters as well as Violet, Sylvie and Stella - were being paired with all of Enzo's brothers who they were properly meeting for the first time.
Sitting down to eat, you were laughing at Blake and Violet who were bickering as they retold a call they were on before they flew out when they were interrupted by someone lightly tapping your shoulder.
Turning your head, your smile brightened at the woman standing over you, a taller man standing half a step behind her.
"Nora! Oh I'm so glad you could make it! It's been so long, you look so good!" You smiled, getting up to hug the woman who returned it eagerly.
"Thank you, thank you! And look at you, you're glowing darling! We already told Enzo but we're so happy for you two." Nora replied happily, stepping back to hold the hand of the man behind her.
"Ivan! Enzo said he wasn't sure if you guys could make it but I'm so glad you could." You said to the tall, slightly intimidating man whose hands and neck were heavily tattooed.
"A Ferraro wedding is one in a lifetime, no one is missing this. It is our pleasure to be here." His voice was accented, soundly Russian or German, they couldn't be too sure.
You flushed. "Well, thank you guys so much for coming anyways, it's been so long since we saw you last."
Nora hugged you again as the couple started to bid you goodbye. "We will be at the gala next year, I was too pregnant last time to even get out of bed. Anyways, we'll see you tomorrow, we want to go check in on the boys."
After a few more pleasantries, the couple walked off and you sat back down to find a few of your friends looking at you curiously.
"So who were they?" Blake asked, unable to hide his interest.
"Ivan's a childhood friend of Enzo's, their dads were close and they own businesses in the same sector." You said, drinking some water. "There's actually a group of them that grew up together and they all now work in the same circle, they're all still close but everyone's always travelling so we don't see them a lot."
They hummed, curiosity somewhat satiated but still confused. If they were being honest, despite how long you and Enzo had been together, they still didn't know what he did for work, only knowing that he took over the family business after his father died, he and his brothers travelled frequently and they were filthy rich.
"There's quite a few of them and they all look quite intimidating and scary but trust me, they're all just big softies on the inside." You assured them, not looking the slightest bit worried as you drank some juice. "If they ask, just tell them you're my family and you'll be fine."
Blake looked a mix between shocked and reassured, he looked very pained.
"Anyways, you were saying something about Boden telling them all off?"
*****
It was finally the day of your wedding and the anticipation was buzzing in the air. The morning was filled with cheerful chatter as everyone slowly ate breakfast at the buffet before getting ready, the girls leaving early to go to your villa where you insisted they come to get ready with the other bridesmaids.
On their short walk over, it was as if the entire town knew what was happening today. The townspeople were bustling around as they worked, smiles on their faces as they conversed about the long awaited wedding for such an infamous family.
Arriving at the very bougie looking villa, your mother ushered the three girls in, leading them towards the bedroom you and your sisters were getting ready.
Instantly, they were swept into the organised chaos. You and your sisters laughing with your best friends so as to not set off any tears too early.
Getting makeup done and getting dressed together felt oddly nostalgic. Your mum and aunt sneakily taking pictures, your mum trying to keep it together as she watched you dolled up in your dress.
Sylvie was fiddling with the flowers in your hair, your sisters bullied you into wearing a garter. All your bridesmaids wore the same dark maroon in different dress styles, looking just as you imagined with their small bouquets.
Enzo's grandmother gave you something old in the intricate diamond necklace that had been hers on her wedding day. Something borrowed came from your mother as well as something blue in the blue chandelier earrings with pearls and something new was basically your entire outfit.
The photographer, who had been through too many vetting processes, led you outside, getting many professional and candid photos of you alone and with your family and the girls.
Leading you away from the group and towards the exact same spot where Enzo's parents did their first look, Violet fixed your veil and your younger sister fixed your train, making sure to take your bouquet until later.
Silently thanking them, you couldn't keep your eyes away from the back of your fiancé, the man who was going to be your husband in less than an hour.
Tapping him on the back, you held your breath as he turned, smile breaking through at the myriad of expressions on his face.
Enzo inhaled shakily, eyes widening as he took all of you in, his eyes already welling up. "Amore mio, non ho parole. Sei così bella, sei irresistibile... Sono senza parole, tesoro."
(My love, I have no words. you're so beautiful, you're irresistable. I'm speechless darling)
You choked back a sob, fanning your eyes to not ruin your makeup. You really hoped the makeup was as waterproof as it claimed. "Yeah, I can tell - you've completely lost your English baby."
"I can touch you now? Your mother won't tell me off again?" He asked, hands clenching at his sides, looking like it was physically hurting him to not have you in his arms.
"No kisses yet she said." You giggled at how fast he moved, reverently kissing your knuckles instead. "Come on, give me a hug you big baby."
You ignored the jeering from your bridesmaids behind you, letting yourself enjoy your last moments an unmarried woman in Enzo's arms.
"I already did my first look with my dad and brothers. Are all your brothers here to do theirs?" You asked him, smothering a smile at the possessive grip he had on your waist.
"They are over the moon. Unable to sit still all morning." Enzo chuckled, reluctantly pulling away from you. "I can see zia Bianca coming towards us. My nonno is going to take us to the Church, I will see you there okay?" (Aunt and grandfather)
A little later, all six of Enzo's brothers were lined up together, their backs to you. When you spoke, they all turned and their reactions were just as you thought. They showered you in compliments, a few tears and multiple jokes cracked at Enzo's expense as they imagined their oldest brothers reaction.
Again, their aunt Bianca came to usher them away so that everyone could leave to get this wedding started.
*****
Violet laughed alongside the other bridesmaids. They had just watched Enzo walk with his grandparents.
The maid of honour, one of your sisters, and the best man, the second oldest brother out of the seven, stood at the front and everyone stood behind them in their own pairs.
Violet linked her arm with Enzo's second youngest brother, they would be the second last to come out before both your youngest siblings and then the flower ‘girl’ and ring bearer who were two little boys of Enzo's childhood best friend. Then there was you, your arm linked with your father who was whispering something in your ear that had both of you close to tears.
The music started, the sound of everyone getting up could be heard as the doors opened. From where she stood, Violet could see that the crowd was much bigger than the audience at the rehearsal yesterday but she wasn't shocked. Both your families were too big for their own good.
"Are you ready Violet?" Luca asked, his smile identical to all his other brothers.
"Make sure you don't trip Luca." Violet replied, a smirk on her face at his spluttered shock but he had no time to deny that yesterday, he did indeed trip.
Together, the pair followed behind Sylvie and another brother. In the day, the church's interior was even more stunning with its stained glass, intricate architecture and the final additions of the decorations made it so picturesque that it looked like it was picked off your mood board.
Separating at the alter, Violet stood besides Sylvie as everyone cooed over the young boys trying their best to throw flowers, smiles bright at their encouragement before running to their parents.
And last but not least, you entered, a hush enveloping the room as you made your way down the aisle.
You were the perfect picture of beauty and grace, your smile visible even under the veil, your eyes never moving from Enzo who let silent tears slip despite already seeing you earlier.
Everyone was so swept away in watching you that they didn't notice the strategically placed men all around the Church, both inside and out. Their blazers hiding all their concealed guns with ease.
Approaching the alter, your dad placing your hand in Enzo's who helped you step up. Your maid of honour quickly taking your bouquet and straightening out your train.
Despite his red eyes, Enzo's hands were completely steady as he lifted up your veil, his breath stuttering as he laid eyes on you again.
The procession properly began, the priest speaking in Italian, speaking bits in English for the sake of half of the attendees that didn't speak the language.
When indicated, Enzo started his vows. His voice was almost steady, shaking slightly as he spoke of his undying love for you, promising himself to you in life and death, swearing to be by your side even through your weird quirks that had the crowd laughing amidst their own sniffles.
Then you started yours, taking a deep breath before you broke out in Italian that Violet knew was well practiced from watching you try and struggle tens of times during shifts.
Enzo's reaction was instant, eyes welling up, all of his brothers painted in shock behind him.
Your own tears had been steadily falling ever since Enzo opened his mouth, and they continued as you fluently spoke your memorised vows, smile permanent as you exchanged loving gazes with the man before you.
Violet sniffled, blinking back tears as she held Sylvie's hand, said woman wiping away her own tears, trying her best not to make a sound.
Once you finished, one of the little boys carefully walked forward. Enzo crouched down to take the rings, thanking the boy who smiled up at him with dimples and teeth.
When the priest prompted, Enzo repeated after him in Italian as he placed the ring on your finger, an action you repeated with shaky fingers.
Wasting no time, as soon as the priest finished speaking, Enzo swept you into his arms, kissing you with so much passion that it was as if he had never kissed you before.
The cheers and claps were deafening at the finally married couple who looked like they came straight out of a movie scene. Their smiles wide, brighter than the sunlight breaking through as they made their way back down the aisle and out the church.
"Gosh that was so beautiful." Sylvie breathed in deeply as she patted her face dry. "Didn't understand a thing they said but still."
"Yeah but Enzo was crying, I've never seen that before." Violet added, squeezing Sylvie's hand as they walked forward so they could go back in their pairs.
"Let's get this party started."
*****
At the reception, your bridesmaids swept you away, simply telling Enzo they were stealing you for a minute before disappearing.
Said man just stood their confused. He remained standing there, the brother that was his best man standing with him as they conversed when they returned.
When you came back, in a dress that was completely different, he looked puzzled but pleased before it dawned on him. His eyes widened, jaw dropping as he swore in Italian.
"Non c'è modo." Alessandro, the second oldest brother, looked at you in as much disbelief as his older brother. "Lorenzo, è il vestito della mamma?" (No way, is that mama's dress?)
"Amore..." Enzo was stunned, simply taking your hand when he moved towards you.
"Your aunt Amelia gave it to me." You answered, letting his hands wonder across your dress, letting him spin you as he took in the dress and you in your entirety. "Apparently your mum always wanted her daughter to wear her wedding dress but since she didn't have any..."
You left the sentence unfinished, letting your husband fill in the rest.
Enzo just kissed you, his actions speaking for him.
"Come tesoro, I promised to feed you well today."
The evening was filled with amazing food, laughter and loud chatter.
You and Enzo sat side by side, not a single gap between your bodies as you ate. Feeding each other delved into laughing and crying at the speeches, everyone cheering with their glasses of alcohol.
You dragged Enzo onto the dance floor, his hands firmly on your waist as yours clasped around his neck. Your practiced first dance mesmerising the crowd as it turned into swaying when it finished but neither of you wanted to let go.
Eventually, other couple joined, your mother pushing Stella and Sylvie towards their respective men and onto the dance floor.
As the floor crowded, it was hard to find the newly married couple which made it easy for one of Enzo's brothers to slip in, speaking to him lowly. They exchanged stony faced glances before the brother slipped away, towards the five other Ferraro brothers whose relaxed faces soon also became tense.
The six of them split up, going towards a few of the in descript men stationed all around the reception hall.
When they disappeared for an undetermined amount of time, easily coming back and acting as if nothing suspicious had even happened.
Alessandro thanked several intimidating man, all of them being close friends and colleagues of Enzo's. He spoke to them a bit longer, making sure not to speak in English as he promised to meet back with them another time.
And somehow, no one noticed a thing. Everyone watching Y/N and Enzo cut their cake, feeding each other the first bites.
As you cut another slice, Enzo looked towards Alessandro, simply watching his younger nod before all his attention was back on you, infatuated as you started feeding your siblings.
When the sky finally darkened, Enzo swept you off your feet, carrying you in typical bridal style. Your laughter was bright and loud, cheeks flushed and hurting from the bouquet toss and the garter toss.
Watching the newlywedded couple drive off, your laughter getting quieter as the distance increased, the euphoria of such an occasion remained.
"Ugh, I can't believe we have to leave and go back to work after tomorrow.”
The group groaned at the reminder, wanting to live in the moment, being in Sicily together as they celebrated their long time friend getting married to the love of her life.
Everything had been perfect but they didn't need to know that some things didn't go according to plan. A certain someone trying to disturb a momentous occasion for not only the Ferraro family, but also a certain criminal underworld.
No one had noticed anything wrong and that was exactly how it was supposed to be.
"Alright guys, let's help pack up before we head back to the hotel."
A series of 'yes caps' echoed as everyone headed back inside.
Self-defence
Warnings: Mentions of toxic/abusive relationships, death, blood, violence and injuries.
Summary: You could explain yourself, you were a teacher, you'd never kill someone in cold blood.
A/N: Hello!!!! So it's been a little while. I started uni and it's taken a bit of getting used to and I just got back from holiday a few days ago. I've had the urge to write but zero inspiration so I hope this is good enough for all of you. Hope you enjoy!!
*****
The evening was like any other.
You were cooking dinner in the kitchen, your one-year-old sitting in her highchair eating and playing with her dinner on the table behind you and your husband working from home today, upstairs in his office finishing up with his final meeting for the day.
You were almost falling asleep at the stove. After a long day of working with a bunch of hormonal teenagers, you had to rush to daycare to pick up your daughter and then come home and take care of all the chores around the house that hadn't been done yet.
And you still had more to do: cleaning the kitchen, feeding your husband and yourself, washing dishes, showering and putting your daughter to sleep and then waiting for anything your husband needed till he would let you sleep.
He hadn't always been like this.
You met and started dating around six years ago, getting married after two years and having your baby four years later. You were more than thankful that after having your daughter, he wasn't too eager to have another, and it was more than likely that he would settle for a single child or would insist on having a son later down the line.
He'd been the perfect boyfriend, fiancé, and husband. So perfect in fact that your brothers had approved of him up until recently.
It was around the time, just before you told them you were pregnant, that they began noticing things that you failed to properly hide such as bruises, unusual behaviours and slips of your tongue.
You were very sure that they knew what was happening but were unable to get you to leave, especially since your daughters birth.
Right now though, with your heavy eyes, vegetables on the chopping board, baby babbling behind you and your husbands presence practically undetectable, that you took Jay's offer on getting you out.
All of a sudden, the sound of glass smashing broke you out of your daze, the shards exploding against the wall and ricocheting towards you and your daughter.
Her cries were instant. Despite being so young, no matter how much you tried to protect and hide her from her father, she'd also become a witness but was yet to become a victim to his hands.
Her cries wear ear piercing, definitely being heard by both your neighbours.
"Get it to shut up!" Your husband snarled, veins popping on his arms and forehead. You could tell he was drunk, gone beyond any sort of reasoning and how this escalated so far was beyond you.
Before you could even turn the corner of the island, he was snatching you up by the tightest grip on your forearm, his fingers no doubt adding to the specifically shaped bruises all across your arms.
You were in a daze, being thrown across the kitchen, head hitting the marble island counter, legs landing on the glass.
"Samuel please!" You tried to scream, pleading with him to stop so you could get to your baby. Usually you were able to de-escalate before it got to this extreme but something must've set him off.
Before you could reorientate yourself, he was pulling you back upright and pushing you against the stove, the burner very much still on.
You screeched, unable to try keep quiet like you usually would as to not alert anyone and your daughter followed suit, her screams and cries increasing to a shattering level.
Despite the dress you were wearing, not having the time to get changed after work, you could feel the burn through your back, the pain unlike anything you'd felt before.
You weren't thinking clearly, lost to the pain and innate need to protect your daughter.
It felt like you weren't present in your body. Using the hand that was free from his grasp, you felt around the counter for anything, barely registering the handle of what you were holding before you struck.
All of a sudden, blood splattered across your face, staining your skin, clothes and all the surfaces nearby.
Looking down towards your hand, you couldn't fully comprehend, only seeing the knife in his chest. Looking up, you were once again face-to-face with your increasingly paling husband, the gravity of the situation falling like a wave crashing over you.
Pushing him away from you, you scrambled away from him, stumbling on your bare feet on the still glass covered tiles to get to your baby whose cries were muffled in the fabric on your shoulder.
His body fell, smack down on the harsh tile, the sound making your head ache impossibly so.
Even with all the adrenaline still rushing though your veins, your legs were unable to keep you upright, your own body following his down to the floor.
"Shh, shhh, it's okay baby. Mummy's here, you're okay my love."
*****
The sun was just setting and Intelligence was pretty much finished for the night. Half was packing themselves up while the other half was finishing up paperwork and getting the final bits up for a court appearance they all needed to attend at the end of the week.
Jay was reading over a few bits the lawyer had sent over with Kim when his phone rung with an unknown number.
Groaning internally, he ignored everyone's eyes on him, all of them just wanting to go home and have an early night for the first time in months.
"Is this Detective Halstead? Y/N's older brother?" The voice started before Jay could say anything, their words putting him on edge.
At the sudden tension that was visibly filling his body, everyone was looking at Jay with stern faces and hard eyes.
"That's me, what's wrong with Y/N?" Jay slowly stood from his seat, already reaching for his keys and jacket while Hailey went to alert Hank.
"You gave me your card last year when I moved in, you said to call if I was ever worried about Y/N." The female voice spoke, another voice in the background was muffled as they also spoke. "Yeah, yeah- we heard a bunch of screaming and crying from Y/N and Mia. Gosh it's horrible, you can still hear Mia crying, I've never heard her like that before."
When Jay said his heart stopped, that would be an understatement.
He remembered giving your neighbours his cards when you first moved in, giving them again when one of them moved out and new ones moved in.
Him and Will were basically one hundred percent sure Samuel was abusing you but at every bruise they pointed out, you always countered. But, both brothers worked in professions where knowing these things were second nature and to see it happen to their baby sister who constantly denied it, even after the birth of your daughter, it broke them to know what he was doing.
And every time they tried to confront him, trying to gather evidence against him, you would be their backing him.
Now, to have your neighbour calling him, reporting that you and his niece could be heard screaming and crying, Jay knew exactly what was happening.
"Don't do anything - don't leave your house, don't go to hers or do anything whatsoever okay? I'm on my way."
Without even having to say much, everyone was following, rushing forward to their cars, stepping on it when Jay said, "It's Y/N."
The drive felt like a blur, Jay driving towards your house without even paying too much attention which was definitely dangerous, but you and your daughter mattered more.
Intelligence arrived first, the police that the other neighbour called yet to arrive.
Jay wasted no time in opening the door, using his spare key to get in.
The house was eerily quite when he first stepped in, Hailey and Kevin by his side as everyone slowly followed in from behind when he stopped in the hallway.
Everyone split up, half going upstairs whilst the rest remained downstairs with Jay who had his gun in hand as he went through the living room and towards the kitchen.
The scene before him caught him so off guard that Hailey bumped into his back in the doorway when he abruptly stopped.
Blood was splattered across the counters and floor, blood flooding the tiles from underneath Samuel's body where a knife was sitting in his chest. He was, undoubtedly, dead.
Glass was everyone, scattered like paint splatters making it impossible to walk without crushing it beneath their feet.
Across the island, sitting against the pink highchair was you. Your body was shaking, swaying as you whispered into Amelia's ear, calming the baby who was no longer crying and was almost happy to be so closely cuddled with her mother.
From where he stood, both of you were injured. Just at the sight of blood on both your bodies made Jay seethe.
"Y/N?" Jay said lowly, trying his best not to scare his younger sister. "Y/N it's Jay, is it okay if I touch you?"
After much coaxing, your eyes finally left your husbands body and landed on Jaywho was crouched a few feet from you.
At the sight of your older brother, you felt yourself losing composure.
"Jay." Your voice was hoarse from all the screaming. "Jay I think I killed him."
Jay didn't say anything, only coming closer to you, arms outstretched to hold you.
"Hey it's okay, it's okay." He shushed you, wiping a few tears away. "Don't thing about him, where are you and Amelia hurt?"
"Mia? She's hurt?" You gasped, pulling your daughter from where she was hidden in your neck to look for any sign on injury.
Your heart dropped from a ledge at the sight of red scratches all across her face. "Oh my baby."
You lightly caressed her face, trying not to touch any of the scratches. "Oh baby, mummy's so sorry, I'm so sorry."
"It's probably from the glass, it went everywhere." You shuddered.
"Okay that's fine, easily treatable." Jay said reassuringly, looking behind you at Hailey at Hank who were already calling for paramedics and forensics.
"What about you Y/N? Where are you hurt?" Jay was almost too scared to ask.
"It hurts everywhere." You whispered, feeling a little shameful. "Arms, legs, back, head and stomach - everything hurts Jay."
It was reminiscent on when you were all younger, when you were always so clumsy and getting hurt over the simplest things, running to your older brothers who would always fix things and patch you up. You sounded so much life your child self no matter how old you were.
"Paramedics are here. Good for them to come in?" Hailey asked, looking at Jay who looked at his sister imploringly.
Knowing that your daughter was hurt, red marks and small lines of blood all across her chubby face, it was easiest question you'd ever answer.
*****
You hadn't let your daughter go.
Jay helped you onto the gurney, accompanying you in the ambulance while the others stayed behind to sort everything out, Hailey saying she'd drive to Med as soon as she could.
In the rush of everything, Jay hadn't been able to call Will, but Kim did.
As soon as they arrived, Jay got off first, easily finding his redheaded brother and he didn't need to say anything, his face said it all.
Will stepped aside so that Ethan could go forward and take charge, both brothers following close behind, Will listening closely to try make sense of what they were dealing with.
Parking you in the bay, no one could treat you with Amelia still in your arms.
"Y/N?" Will gently called, crouching slightly so he could be as eye level as he could. "Can I treat Mia while Ethan gets a look at you. I promise, we'll be right next door and no one's going to touch her but me, Jay and Maggie."
"She's not leaving our sight, we promise." Jay added, both brothers willing to put their life on the line for their niece.
Your arms were visibly shaking from the exhaustion and adrenaline crash as your fingers relaxed from its grip on Amelia's shirt, allowing Will to swoop in and pick her up.
Pressing a kiss to your forehead, Will smiled as much as he could given the situation and slowly moved away so as not to scare you too much.
Luckily for him, you were so tired and the pain was finally hitting you all at once, that you barely paid much attention to your brothers and daughter.
In the treatment room right next to yours, Will turned to Jay.
"Take Mia and sit down on the bed. These scratches don't look too bad so I doubt they'll need stitches, just some cleaning and she should be good."
Following his instructions, Jay gently cradled her in his arms, sitting on the bed, keeping a close eye on his niece whose wide eyes were watching her uncle bustle around and collect items to clean her face.
She cooed, watching with interest as Will snapped gloves on, opening multiple anti-bacterial wipes and gently wiped her the already scabbing scratches on her face.
At the cold sensation rubbing against her cheeks and forehead, Amelia giggled, her fingers trying to catch and hold onto Will's hand.
Both brothers smiled at their niece, a whirlwind of emotions painted on their faces, in awe of their niece who was giggling after the trauma she experienced but with deep sadness knowing that she was hurt due to her father's abusive tendencies towards her mother.
Eventually, Amelia's eyes starting drooping, Will's ministrations putting her to sleep, something which neither of them stopped, letting her fall asleep withing minutes.
Will sighed, cleaning the last bit of blood that managed to get on her neck before putting everything in the bin.
"He's dead." Jay said under his breath so as to not wake the slumbering baby on his chest. "No one's sure what actually happened but it's obvious she killed him in self-defence."
"God." Will looked conflicted as he took his gloves off. "From what the paramedics and Ethan said, she's been burnt, probably second degree, a concussion and lots of bleeding and bruising. Her ribs are also probably bruised from repeated trauma but we'll have to wait for her scans to come back."
The brothers fell into silence, relishing in the silence of the closed off room, content to watch the rise and fall of their nieces breathing.
*****
A few hours later, you were moved to a different ward, Jay sitting beside you with Amelia fast asleep on his chest.
You just finished giving your statement to Hailey, finally admitting to years of abuse that started just after you got married.
You didn't know what to think. On one hand, you were thankful, you were free from your husbands abuse, he could never hurt you nor could he even try to hurt Amelia but it was only because you killed him.
He couldn't be arrested, forced to suffer years behind bars for his horrific actions.
Both Jay and Hailey assured you nothing was going to happen to you, you weren't going to face any charges because it was clearly, from your statement as well as your neighbours and Will and Jay's admissions that they had been suspicious for a while now, self-defence.
As Hailey was writing the last few details in her notebook, you suddenly remembered something. You perked up, body screaming at you for the sudden action but the pain was slightly dulled by the painkillers.
"Cameras." You breathed out, looking at Jay and Hailey.
"Samuel installed cameras after we moved in, he put them all around the house so he could keep an eye on me when he wasn't working from home."
Without saying anything, both detectives already knew what you were trying to say.
"I'll call Voight and let him know." There was a certain gleam in Hailey's eyes that you sometimes saw in Jay's that let you know that this was a good things.
As Hailey walked out, Will walked in, several things in hand as he slide the door shut behind him.
"Okay so here's the extra blanket you asked for." He said as he opened it up and lay it on you, letting you adjust it to your liking.
"Also some water and cookies for later because you need to eat at one point." Will's eyes were stern when you tried to interject.
"I've also got some morphine if you want it and news about your scans."
Huffing, you said yes to both of them, letting him inject you before he settled on the bed by your knees.
"Like me and Ethan said before, your ribs are only bruised from repetitive trauma, there's no fractures or any sort of internal bleeding anywhere." He paused, waiting for you to nod before he continued.
"There's a mixture of bruises, scratches and gashes on your arms and legs. The bruising on your arm is quite severe so you'll have to stay in the brace for a few weeks and not put too much strain because it can get worse - yes, if that means getting help to look after Mia because you struggle to hold her, then so be it."
You didn't like the sound of that. You loved to hold your daughter and she loved being picked up and held by anyone, but you especially.
"You've got also got a concussion so I'll run you through the concussion protocol later. The burn on your back is a second degree burn so while it's treatable, there will probably be a mark left behind. It's severity, no ones sure about that, but if you treat it correctly and let us help you, then it shouldn't be too bad."
"That's it?" You asked timidly, voice still sore.
"That's it." Will nodded in confirmation. "We're keeping you overnight for observation, maybe the next day too but I've already discharged Mia. Her scratches weren't bad at all and there'll be no scars afterwards."
You choked back a sob hearing that. Knowing that she was technically fine and would be scar free in just a few weeks was the biggest relief.
"That's good." You finally let the tears fall. "That's really good, I'm glad."
Your brothers let you breakdown, surrounding you in a protective circle, shielding you from the outside world, whispering reassurances, gently carding fingers through your hair.
You weren't too sure how much time had passed, but there was a knock to the door that brought you out your sobbing.
Hailey poked her head in, making sure not to step in.
"Voight just got back to me. They found all the cameras and they're pretty much one hundred percent certain they can prove it was all self-defence Y/N."
All you could do was breakdown again, trying to muffle your cries as to not was your sleeping daughter but you couldn't help yourself.
That was it. Your husband was dead and it would take a while before you felt like you were free from the torment and trauma of him and his hands but with your daughter and you older brothers by your side, you had everything you needed to feel whole again.
Hide and Seek
Warnings: Light swearing.
Summary: Kelly struggles to plan the perfect proposal. So what happens when he's finally ready but loses the ring?
A/N: I've been stuck at home for so long at this point that I'm losing my mind but inspo has been so low despite me wanting to write and waste time. It's been a hot minute since I wrote for Kelly so I hope this is good enough and you all enjoy!!
"Damn, who knew you had such good taste Sev?"
Kelly scowled at his best friend who struggled to hide his smile, turning away when the two little bodies standing in front of them also both scowled at the blonde man.
"Mama 's big rock!"
"Ring is my mama's!"
Your twins exclaims overlapped, your son and daughter pouting the exact same at their godfather. You were the light of their life as much as they were for you, you could never do any wrong and it seemed that Kelly's protective instincts rubbed off on them because they were almost unhealthily defensive of you.
"Her sisters helped me a lot." Kelly said, holding the open box so that the twins could ooh and aah over it as much to their little hearts content - their new recent obsession had been your makeup and jewellery.
"They used to watch the animated Barbie movies all the time when they were younger - Y/N's waiting for the twins to turn three before indoctrinating them - but this ring takes inspiration from the movies."
The soft smile on Matt's face couldn't be held back by any amount of joking. This engagement was a long time coming for everyone and had you not struggled with your pregnancy as much as you did, you'd probably already be married by now.
"Now I just have to plan the perfect engagement - I'm not taking anything below perfection." Kelly said, watching the twins poke the sparkling diamonds. "She deserves the best, isn't that right bubs?"
The twins cheered in unison, clapping their little hands at the thought of surprising you. Even though they were young, the notion of gifts and their love for you was easily understood.
"My babies!! Where are you my loves? Mama's here!" Your voice came from across the hall, getting louder as you speed walked to get to your twins, desperate to see them after an unexpected last minute shift that led to the twins hanging out at the firehouse.
Scrambling, Kelly shut the ring box, opening his desk drawer and chucking it in as gently as he could as to not ruin it but also quick enough to not get caught.
The twins squeals probably caused everyone in the firehouse to go deaf, so loud as it reverberated through the corridors, their little feet running as fast as they could to get to you.
Crouching down with open arms, the twins slammed into you, allowing themselves to be smothered in kisses while they tried their best to do the same back to you - it was more open mouth slobber than kisses but you giggled, hugging them as tightly as you could in exchange.
"Oh mama missed her babies so much! Did you have fun with daddy?" You asked them when they finished their loving, settling into you by clutching your neck and resting their heads on your shoulders.
Kelly smiled softly at his little family, the reasons his heart grew ten times in the last few years. He loved the three of you a disgusting amount and this proposal, along with your dream wedding was the least he could offer to express his adoration.
*****
Nearly two months later and Kelly finds himself at a loss.
For several weeks now he's tried so many times to arrange a twin free night and when that never worked out, he tried to even make a plan that involved the them but it never seemed to work.
Then work became swamped. Their was an onslaught of murders, following a big investigation that uncovered a serial killer which meant you almost never had time off and then a lieutenant on C-Shift was out from a broken leg, so he and Matt were exchanging covering his shifts.
But tomorrow, it was The day, Kelly was sure of it. He was going to take the ring home from his desk drawer at the firehouse and hide it somewhere secure enough that you wouldn't find it overnight.
As everyone was getting changed and slowly leaving, Kelly went to grab the box from his office, it fitting perfectly in the palm of his hand.
"Oh! Are you finally popping the question?" Hermann asked, eyeing the velvet box as he walked out with Kelly.
"Yeah." Kelly nodded with a smitten smile. "We've both got the day off tomorrow and the twins are staying overnight with Y/N's mum."
"Ooh, show us the ring!" Sylvie chimed in, her arm intertwined with Stella's as they both peered over Hermann's shoulder to get a peek.
Opening the box, Kelly was meant with silence, the complete opposite reaction he got when he showed Matt, your parents and sister.
"Umm, Kelly..." The three of them exchanged confused and worried looks, making Kelly's heart skyrocket. "There's no ring."
Kelly stopped walking in the middle of the apron, eyes wide in bewilderment as he laid eyes on the empty white cushions.
His heart dropped, brows raising from shock.
"Shit." He swore, unable to look anywhere else.
The following almost hour could only be described as controlled chaos. Whoever was left behind and hadn't yet gone home were seen running around and turning every corner of the firehouse upside down, ignoring the fact that the ring only ever saw the inside of Kelly's locker and his and Matt's office.
Your sister was going to strangle him to death - scratch that, Kelly would take himself out before any of your family got the chance.
The custom ring that he had been saving for for years, making sure it was above all standards and fulfilled your childhood dreams, had disappeared. There was no sight of its existence in the firehouse apart from the rings box.
There wasn't going to be any proposal tomorrow.
*****
Eliza and Elliot, yours and Kelly's twins, were playing in their nursery while the two of you cleaned and cooked downstairs.
The baby monitor was on just as a precaution because now matter how well behaved they were, they were still two-years-old and caused obscene amounts of mischief when together.
They communicated through intelligible babbles and few fully formed words, waving around toys and pointing at random things. Despite being fraternal, they acted as though they were identical, always in sync and acting on the same wavelength.
If your soon-to-be ring was sitting on the head of a teddy bear, acting as a mini crown, then that was no ones business.
*****
A few days later, both of you were back at work. The last few days, Kelly had been acting slightly strange. It wasn't too noticeable but after coming off his 24-hour shift, he'd been tense and a little flightly.
He'd been looking all around the house, claiming he thought he had lost something that he had borrowed from Matt and it wasn't at the firehouse.
At the time, you accepted it but a few days passed and he hadn't found the item and his stress levels increased to a rate it shouldn't be at when he was supposed to be relaxing at home with his family.
"Y/N? You good?" Kim's voice knocked you from your trail of thoughts, her frown small and face concerned.
"Yeah, sorry I zoned out for a second." You apologised, shaking your head as you sat up in your chair and tried to pay attention to the footage on your computer screen.
Kim hummed, unconvinced.
You gave in pretty quickly, unable to keep secrets of any sorts from anyone. "Kelly's been acting weird this week and its putting me off. I feel like he's lying to me but about what? I don't even know why."
What you didn't see was Kim's eyes widening, exchanging a knowing look with Kevin from across the bullpen. Everyone in Intelligence knew of Kelly's plan to propose, they were able to cover the end of your last shift when they were told Kelly was going to propose that night.
"I'm sure it's nothing." Kim tried to reassure you, putting her best smile on her face despite the lie. "And if it isn't nothing, he'll tell you eventually if it's really bothering you."
You nodded. You and Kelly were each others confidants. Maybe he just needed a little time to digest and get his thoughts together before he came to you and needed your intake on whatever was bothering him.
*****
It had been a week since the day Kelly lost the ring and he was now closer to finding it than he was then, and he was slowly losing his mind.
He had finally called your sister this morning, very apprehensively but ultimately defeated. She had been angry at first but then she was concerned when told it still hadn't turned up a week later.
She said she'd looked around her apartment and ask her parents to check their house, getting back to him a few hours later with no good news, repeating the same words he'd heard multiple times from the people who knew about his proposal plans.
His failed proposal plans.
His ocean deep desire to fulfil all your wants and needs had been desecrated with the rings disappearance.
After so many years together, filled with love and laughter but also trauma and grief, as well as the beautiful births of your twins, the thought of not marrying you was one of the many fears Kelly had that he prayed never came true.
There was no backup plans. That ring, that date with the two of you, that was meant to be it. Without it, Kelly wasn't sure what he was meant to do now.
*****
The twins' bedtime routine was one that had been through many trials and errors. Having a consistent schedule with twins was hard enough and it only got harder the older and squirmier they got.
Turning two coincided with their love for you tripling. So it became very easy to convince them to do anything you asked, especially when you spoiled them with showers of kisses, cuddles under the covers and bedtime stories with funny voices.
The nights you and Kelly could do their bedtime routine together was heaven.
Freshly showered, cuddling each other in your bed, reading a fairy-tale they heard several times before, you and Kelly failed to see the ring sitting among the wooden and plastic food and cutlery in their toy kitchen, sitting innocently amongst them.
*****
The next day, the ring sat wrapped as nicely as a two-year-old could in tissue in a pocket in a cartoon inspired backpack.
Eliza would gently handle it and show it off to her friends, all of them staring at it with stars in their eyes and their tiny jaws open from seeing something so pretty.
The toddler was especially sneaky with it, always hiding it in her pocket or back in her bag again whenever a teacher or any of the boys got too close.
She only ever let Elliot hold it when they were playing together and when they got home.
Sitting in the back of their daddy's car, they giggled together, their father smiling at the sound that flooded his heart but was too focused on the road to take notice of their little hands exchanging the tissue wrapped ring.
*****
After what felt like the longest lunch in the world, the twins were settled in the other room playing.
Cleaning the table and kitchen was definitely a mission, but it was a well prepared one because you soon found yourself making out with Kelly on the couch.
It had been a few interrupted nights, the twins waking up to come sleep with you in the middle of the night and a quick make-out session on the couch was very overdue.
Just as the intensity increased, your leg raised to straddle Kelly's thighs, the sound of feet pattering and giggles echoed down the hallway, getting louder as the little gremlins got closer to the living room.
Sighing into each others mouths, you sat back down against the cushions, leaving no space for even oxygen between your bodies pressing against each other.
Pressing a kiss to your forehead, Kelly smiled widely at the sight of his babies. He loved them with every fibre in his body but he desperately wanted some alone time with the love of his life.
He could just about keep his eyes on their speeding bodies that came flying towards you, their little hands clutching the fabric covering your legs.
"Mama! Mama! Shine is you!"
"Look, Mama! Daddy for you!"
Their little voices spoke fully formed words at the same time, no babbling in sight but they still confused you. For once, you couldn't make sense of what they were trying to tell you.
Before you could ask them anything, both of their little hands were shoving something shiny upwards as far as their arms could reach.
You could barely hear Kelly's breathless profanity as your eyes zeroed in on the shiny object that was reflecting in the sunlight.
Your heart started beating erratically. The ring was gorgeous, you hadn't seen anything like it before.
It wasn't too big, almost floral looking in design but not straying too far from the timeless look of the simple jewellery you loved.
You were finally connecting the dots: the twins' words, Kelly's weird behaviour and now this ring.
Before you could turn around, said man was getting up and getting down on his knee.
Rather than taking the ring from the twins' tight grasp, his hand joined and enveloped theirs.
Looking down at the three people that held your heart in their hands, you could feel yourself tearing up, nose slowly starting to run at the sight that would forever be ingrained in your brain.
"Y/N, your the love of my life." Kelly cleared his throat, also trying his best to keep himself together. "I can't imagine a life without you. You make me complete as a person and you gifted me the best things that ever could've happened to me."
"I've never asked anything of you but please, allow me to ask you this one thing: Will you marry me?"
You choked back a sob, tears falling as the biggest smile overcame your face.
Your answer was lost in the twins' squeals, their giggles the most beautiful sound as Kelly rushed forward for what could only be described as the best kiss of your life.
Reluctantly moving back, with Eliza and Elliot's help, Kelly slid the ring onto your finger, fitting like the last piece of a puzzle.
Without a second to waste, Kelly scooped his family into his arms, spinning them, relishing at all three of your laughters.
Without a doubt, he was the happiest man in the entire world and when some time passed, the story of the twins' impeccable hiding skills would be told for years to come.
A Rich (Wo)Man's World
Warnings: Toxic parents, death of a minor? character, brief mentions of childhood trauma,
Summary: Trying to distance yourself from your rich, snobby parents was harder than you thought, especially after the death of your grandfather.
A/N: Hello!! So I wrote this in celebration of getting into university so please do enjoy this, I've had this idea in mind for quite a while now. This can be read as a stand alone but it can also be read as part of 'Money, Money, Money' just because I can't be bothered to make any more new characters.
This is a little bit long and I will eventually write a part 2 so don't worry, please do enjoy!!
You were the middle child of five, and you also just so happened to be the only girl too with two older and two younger brothers. So it was only natural that you grew up suffocated by bubble wrap, overbearing parents and all your brothers overprotective
This type of behaviour also went beyond to your extended family where you also grew up as the only girl. Any of your distant female cousins were born once you moved out Chicago to go to medical school, so you never had the chance to see any change in behaviour.
It was a shock when you decided to pursue medicine to the entire family. Everyone who had finished college and gone straight into working for the family business all across the country. So when you chose medicine, you went down fighting.
Things slowly started to change when your second eldest brother, who was working as the business' lawyer and your youngest brother who was just about to start college, both decided to follow your path after many many conversations with you about what to do.
And so your older brother left the business and started at a law firm while your baby brother moved out to Boston to be with you and start his degree in engineering.
The two of you flourished together and the last piece of the puzzle that was your life was completed when you met Connor when you started residency.
You loved your brothers to bits, they were everything to you growing up and alongside Connor they still were, no matter their career paths and they clearly still felt the same. No matter your or their ages, the love was infinite and unwavering.
So if the relationship was kept quiet from your parents till the engagement, then that was on a need to know basis.
The only problem that came with this was your grandparents, who were at the helm of the Y/L/N Empire, your grandfather starting it up from the ground with your grandmother as his rock and support since the get-go.
It was hard to watch as their relationship became strained with your parents who tried to take on more of the business the older they became, but your grandfather refused to retire.
It became even more strained when you started medicine.
If you were the light of your family's light, you were the northern star for your grandparents, their bias and favouritism was a well known fact and an encouraged joke among your brothers. And this was something your parents begrudged but couldn't help encourage when they saw the benefits it came with in comparison to your uncles family.
And so upon publicly announcing your engagement to a man they didn't know, what followed could only be described as an uproar.
There were a lot of battles you had to choose to fight, some you won victoriously and others you had to compromise for the sake of keeping the peace even though this was your wedding. Despite Connor also coming from a rich family, he couldn't help but find many aspects of all of this absurd.
The entire wedding was meticulously planned but nor you or Connor could deny that it was an almost perfect day. The venue was beautiful, you sparkled and Connor was a wreck once he saw you in your dress, you and your brothers all had a first dance and the smiles were endless.
If only your parents didn't bitter the experience by making everything just so much harder to organise and get through. To this day, you and your brothers are still holding a grudge about it.
From that day, you actively tried to distance yourself from your parents more than you did before; not moving back to Chicago, supporting your brother after he graduated, following Connor to Riyadh and updates given through stilted text messages and minute details given through third person parties.
Several years later, three of your nephews had been born, you and Connor moved back to Chicago to work at Med as a general and cardiothoracic surgeon respectively and seven months ago you had given birth to your baby girl. It seemed that the world was telling you something, as you were the only girl and as of now, so was your daughter.
The past seven months had been bliss. Recovery after birth had been hard and getting back to work even harder but things were perfect. All your brothers were working and thriving with families and partners of their own.
So of course it all had to come crumbling down.
*****
Your grandfather started Y/L/N Hotels all by accident when he was in his twenties and newly married. It all started when he bought and renovated the local motel, a story you heard a million times over, and success was slow but it was run by his small family and closest friends.
After that, the story always changed but success boomed and over the decades, Y/L/N Hotels were known internationally and were spread all across the globe. You and your brothers grew up visiting the lavish lobbies and 'helping' design what newer buildings would look like.
Your grandmother died two years after your wedding due to cancer, a battle she fought with family and her husband by her side constantly. It had been hard on everyone but your grandfather took it the hardest. He hadn't known a life without her and the last half a decade had been extremely hard on him, but news of your pregnancy and then a great grand-daughter revived him.
It shook your world when you heard about his death.
You were told it was peaceful, in his sleep. The day before spent with his grandchildren and great grand-children having their monthly dinners together. He had been content and in no pain at all.
But the same couldn't be said for you.
The very morning you found out, you dropped the bottle you had been preparing before your body followed it, careening towards the tiled floor harshly.
Your sobs were instant, echoing across the house, shocking Connor from his sleep. Hours of whispered assurances, keeping you in his arms and tears of his own, the day went by in a blur.
After the phone call, you were useless and later when Connor told you of everything he had to do in your steed, you'd feel regret but all you could feel was grief.
The following week had been hard, especially when you had a baby whose entire existence relied on you 24/7. If it wasn't for Connor, you would've failed massively.
Being with your brothers helped a lot, sharing your grief and easing the pain by reminiscing. But it seemed that your parents didn't want to partake.
On the day of the funeral, your dad look sickly pale but remained stoic and painted the perfect picture for the public, your mother stuck by his side like glue.
No matter how civil you and your parents were nowadays, especially following the birth of your baby, this was your dads father after all, doing a little more as their daughter was basic human decency.
It was hard to understand why they couldn't give that back in return because the day after the funeral, they insisted on having the will reading when you and your brothers all stated none of you were ready yet.
The next three weeks was filled with your parents' constant nagging for the will reading and demanding time to be made. While yes, it was quite important, it could wait and the empire the business your grandfather started wouldn't crumble in even the slightest.
Just over a month later, the five of you gave in and that was how all of you, partners included, found yourselves in one of the hotel's conference rooms with two lawyers along with your uncle and your three cousins.
All of this felt a little unnecessary, especially since everyone knew who would be inheriting the business, everyone knew from the start. Only your grandfathers personal and financial assets needed to be handled but again, your grandfather only had two sons, there was no need to complicate anything.
*****
On the only day you and Connor were both off work, you found yourself in one of the hotels conference rooms.
You arrived just on time, one of your brothers and one cousin were the only ones yet to arrive.
"There she is!! Oh you've grown so much peanut what have your parents been feeding you?" Your youngest brother came up to you, his fiancé at his side, both of them cooing at the baby in your arms who basked in the attention she received daily.
"She's almost always surrounded by medical professionals, she's probably the healthiest person in this entire room." Connor said, pulling your brothers into hugs, greeting them all individually.
"The boys are all at school." Your older brother said, referring to his own sons as he 'booped' your daughter on the nose. "For peanuts sake, lets hope uncle and dad don't argue about any of their shares."
You all winced at merely the thought of the incoming chaos that was bound to ensue. Your dad and uncle had always fought with each other since they were children but fighting over their fathers legacy was sure to be ugly. Perhaps this would be the final straw to break the camels back.
A throat cleared, catching all of your attentions to the head of the table where the two lawyers stood. "If you could all take your seats then we shall start promptly. We have a long agenda today so let's not waste any time."
At that, everyone took their seats at the long table. You sat in between one of your brothers, with Connor on your right and your daughter sitting contently on your lap.
The last two chairs were quickly filled by your cousin and brother who just about made it on time, but no one paid them too much mind as the lawyers were already speaking.
They went over the necessary legal jargon, half that you couldn't comprehend. If it was anything important, Connor or your lawyer brother would interject.
"Mr Arthur Y/L/N has separated and allocated all his assets across the board, his will read as follows: his home goes to both his sons, Archie and Henry."
You inhaled when there was a slight pause, everyone secretly looking at the two brothers to read their reactions. It was easy to tell their annoyance.
"His personal bank, along with his title as CEO and owner of Y/L/N Hotels will go to..."
Everyone held their breath, the tension between your uncle and dad so thick that you were all struggling with it. You were all trying to prepare for the biggest blow up of the century.
"Mrs Y/N."
You swore you heard a record scratch, blinking repeatedly at the absurdity of his words.
"Mama!!" Your daughter exclaimed, clapping her hands clumsily when everyone remained silent. Her giggles filled the room, everyone frozen from shock.
"I'm sorry, can you repeat that again for me?" Your dad asked demanded, his forehead marred in wrinkles, your mother looking pained beside him.
"Arthur Y/L/N's personal bank and his CEO title along with ownership of Y/L/N Hotel's goes to Mrs Y/N Y/L/N-Rhodes."
You exhaled shakily.
Connor's hand gripped your knee securely, grounding you as your daughter continued to babble nonsensically while your brother swore harsh words that should never be heard by innocent baby ears.
The room exploded. Well, rather three people in particular did.
*****
You weren't proud to say that after that very moment, you disassociated completely. You were so far gone that Connor took your daughter in his arms, he was more scared about you in that moment more than the squabbling men in the corner who were inches away from throwing hands.
The will reading continued for nearly another two hours. Apparently, there were many many things on the agenda and there were just too many small details that couldn't be left alone.
As soon as the meeting ended, the lawyers hightailed it out the room and your uncle and dad jumped to their feet, almost stalking towards you.
Within seconds, your husband and brothers grabbed you and ran as fast as they could while you were still disassociated.
You started coming back to in the car, becoming fully aware and bodily able once you got home.
Due to prior commitments and the mess that was the will reading, all your brothers had to leave and deal with it all. Both your uncle and dad needed to be handled and kept from harassing you, that was a job that your younger brother and one of your cousins was left with while your older brothers went to deal with the mess that was the board.
God just hearing about it all from Connor made you feel overwhelmed on their behalf, but you didn't need to, you had more than enough to be overwhelmed by.
"I want to say I'm shocked but..." Connor shrugged as he lightly bounced your daughter to sleep, her body scrunched up in a ball on his chest. "From all your stories and from personal experience it kind of makes sense."
"The only girl - the favourite among the entire family basically." You said plainly, sipping the glass of orange juice. "We all just thought it would be Uncle Archie's or my dads, no one even thought to entertain that it would be any different."
Connor hummed, "Yeah and since its you, their estranged daughter they barely talk to anymore, their outburst and harassment was only to be expected."
"Damn." You grumbled, massaging your temples when you just thought about how horrible the rest of your life was going to be.
"Wait!" You said a little too loudly, you and Connor pausing to make sure your daughter didn't wake up.
"I can't be CEO. Forget how rich we'll be with grandads extra assets added onto what we already have, but I'm already so backed up and busy being a surgeon, there's no way I can be CEO!"
The living room was filled with silence, your daughter soft breathing calming you.
"Why?" Connor asked very seriously.
"Who says you can't be the CEO and a general surgeon?"