Jul 29, 2024
THIS
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THIS
"I believe her"
Description: Will's best friend is in trouble and Jay steps in to be the hero.
Warnings: Domestic violence, abuse, mentions of blood, mentions of gun violence. DO NOT READ IF TRIGGERED BY DV
Pairings: Platonic Will Halstead x Reader, Jay Halstead x Reader
I AM IN NO WAY trying to romanticize domestic violence or abuse. If you are experiencing it PLEASE seek help. DV Hotline 1800-799-7233
The first time it happened, it was a grip on her wrist that was a little too hard. He said he didn't mean it, he was sorry.
"I love you so much, I just get a little upset"
Brandon knew how to sweet talk her.
Y/n and Brandon met when he had just started the academy and Y/n was starting school to be a radiologist. It was love at first sight. They were meant to be. Everyone that knew them said that.
They were the perfect couple and everyone loved them together.
The second time was a hard shove that sent Y/n falling into the coffee table.
The bruises and sore muscles the next day from the fall were hard to ignore but Brandon knew how to make her forget.
Flowers, cards, a romantic dinner. Multiple apologies.
The third time was Brandon screaming in her face, making her scared enough to fall down and then the kicking started.
The pain Y/n felt the next morning as she walked into work was enough to detour her day.
She looked around the ED, she knew she could go to Will. Her closest friend. But he would see right through her so she went for the next best option.
"Hey Hannah, got a sec?" Y/n asked, approaching the blonde doctor.
Y/N and Hannah were friendly, they had drinks at Molly's together--back when Y/n would show up. They aren't too close for Hannah to ask questions.
Hannah smiles, leaning against the nurses station "Yeah what's up? Everything okay?" she asks curiously.
Y/n shrugs, adjusting the tote bag on her shoulder "I was kinda clumsy and drunk last night, took a tumble I might have a cracked rib or two" She says it lightheartedly to make it more believable.
The blonde chuckles, nodding "Come on, let's take a look"
--
Will Halstead was observant. Y/n had stopped coming out to Molly's about 6 months ago. Always said she was too tired.
Then Y/n started slowly not answering his texts. Only talking to him at work.
He wasn't sure what he did to cause the distance.
The two had been inseparable since Y/n started. Will always saw her as a little sister and cared for her like one. Always checking in on her, making sure she was eating and drinking properly and Y/n did the same for him especially on those long shifts.
Y/n was the one (outside of Jay) that Will went to about everything s and when he needed to rant and usually it was always vice versa.
Until lately.
Will watched Y/n walk over to the nurses station, handing over a report to another doctor.
That's when he noticed her face, the slight bruising and cuts on her cheek raising red flags.
"Hey, what the hell happened to your face?" The red head questions, the concern written all over his face.
"Gee, Will, way to make a girl feel good about herself" Y/n says sarcastically.
Will shakes his head, looking at her in disbelief "Y/n. Seriously, what happened?"
Y/n rolls her eyes at him "I took a little tumble. Will, seriously, I'm fine" She says, a little laugh coming out.
"Dr. Halstead! Incoming!" Maggie calls from the entrance of the ED.
Will groans pointing at Y/n "This isn't over" He says seriously before grabbing gloves and running off.
Y/n lets out a sigh of relief. Thank you Maggie!
---
Relief. Joy. Warmth.
Those three words used to describe how Y/n felt when she walked into the apartment shared with her boyfriend of 6 years.
Dread. Sadness. Guilt.
Those three describe the feeling she got when she entered the apartment now.
She can feel the hostility as she hears him stomping around.
Brandon emerged from the bedroom, duffel bag in hand. Badge and gun on his hip.
"Finally home huh? What took you so long? Hanging out with your work boyfriend?" Brandon questions, his tone is hard to place but the feeling in her gut makes Y/n feel uneasy.
"I told you he's just a frie-"
Brandon cuts her off, his hand around her throat, slamming the girl back into the wall.
"He's just a friend my ass. Think you can step out on me? Do you forget who I am?" His other hand is on his gun as he stares at her with rage.
"I think you know better than to lie to me" The dark chuckle is followed by a hard punch, right to her left cheek.
Brandon lets her go, stepping back and walking to the front door, picking up his duffel bag and his keys.
"I'll be undercover for a few days--You better have this place spotless when I get back."
--
It took three hours for Y/n to gather her strength, to move from her spot on the floor where Brandon had left her.
She was cried out, her throat was sore, her eye was already swelling up and she could feel blood running down her cheek.
As if she snapped out of her dazed state, Y/n stood up, still shaky. Going to the bedroom she shared with him.
Quickly grabbing the duffel bag out from under the bed she hastily starts throwing clothes into the bag.
Not all of them, just enough to not have to come back for a few days.
She knew she should probably call before just showing up but there was no way she was up for explaining things over the phone.
Glancing back at the apartment one last time she shut the door behind her, making her way downstairs.
---
Y/n stood outside of the familiar apartment. Hesitating.
She could just walk away. She could not tell anyone. That seems easier.
But the feeling in her gut. Her mind flashing back to Brandon's hand on his gun while he choked her.
She couldn't go back.
Hesitantly, she brings up a shaky hand, making a loose fist and knocking on the door.
It takes a second before she hears shuffling. Then the lock unlocking.
The pit in her stomach grows.
"Hey! What are you doing he--Holy shit" Will is stopped dead in his tracks when he sees the swollen eye, the blood on her cheek and the bruises on her neck in the shape of fingers.
"C-can I stay here--just for the night" Y/n stutters out lowly.
"Are you kidding me? You don't even have to ask" Will is quick to take her bag from her, ushering her inside the apartment.
"What happened? Who did this to you? Was it Brandon?" Will questions as he rushes to the kitchen for an ice pack.
"Yeah" It's more of a whisper as Y/n looks down at her shoes.
"Let's get some ice on your eye--Here, sit, sit" Will guides her to the couch, sitting next to her and handing her the ice pack.
"Have you talked to anyone? Did you call the police or-"
"I can't, I can't call the police, Will, he's a detective. I can't..." Y/n trails off, her words are panicked.
Will shakes his head leaning forward "Listen to me. You have to report this--h-how long has this been going on?" he asks frantically.
Y/n hesitates, glancing at Will with her uncovered eye. Debating if she should tell him the truth.
"Six months" Y/n says softly, avoiding eye contact.
Will is speechless for a moment. His brain racking through everything he's seen the past six months. How withdrawn she's been, the small winces when he startled her. Why didn't he question it?
"Listen, my brother, he's a detective with Intelligence. You can trust Jay, his whole unit. I promise. Please let me call him, just him" Will tries to convince her.
Y/n sighs, nodding slowly "Only him. I'll talk to your brother"
--
It was nearing 10 pm when a knock at the door makes Y/n Jump.
Will squeezes her shoulder, giving her sad smile "It's just Jay, I'm going to let him in okay?"
It might seem silly to ask if it's okay to let someone into your own home.
But Will was going to make sure she was comfortable with it first. He could see the fear in her eyes and her hands still had a slight tremble to them.
Y/n gives a slight nod, she feels like a bundle of nerves as Will stands up and approaches the door.
What if Jay knew Brandon? What if they were friends and he told Brandon?
It's Will's brother. You can trust him. She had to tell herself that as she heard footsteps coming to the living room.
"Y/n, this is Jay" Will says softly, entering the living room with a brunette man who Y/n would definitely say is attractive under any other circumstance.
"Hi" Jay says softly "I'm sorry we're meeting under these circumstances, I've heard a lot about you"
Y/n glances at him and then back to Will, feeling uneasy.
"From me" Will reassures her, he can sense that question rolling around in her head.
Y/n nods.
Jay's a little confused why he would hear about her from anyone else but he left it.
Jay pulls a chair from the dining table, setting it across from Y/n and sitting down while Will takes a seat next to her again.
"So Will didn't say much on the phone. Your boyfriend did this?" Jay asks, his voice soft, taking out his notepad and pen.
Y/n lets out a puff of air "Yeah-yes-um he did"
Jay nods "What is his name?" he asks, writing something down in his notepad.
"Brandon Wiley, he's a detective in narcotics in the 23rd district" Y/n glances at Jay nervously, noticing how he stops writing for a second and then continues.
"Can you walk me through what happened tonight?" Jay's stomach is turning, the thought of a cop doing this to an innocent woman.
It's definitely hitting hard for him.
"I-i came home from work around 6, he was in our bedroom packing a bag to go undercover. I didn't even set my things down, He started asking why I was home late, accusing me of being with my work boyfriend--It's what he calls Will"
Y/n pasues, rubbing her hands together nervously, reaching up to run her fingers over the brusies on her neck lightly.
It feels like she has a thousand eyes on her, like the two men are judging her but she knows Will would never. and Will wouldn't call Jay if he didn't trust him.
"He wrapped a hand around my throat, slammed me into the wall. He was screaming in my face saying not to cheat on him and to remember who he was a-and his hand was on his gun...and then he gave me this" Y/n gestures to her face, glancing between the Halstead brothers.
Will places a comforting hand on her knee. It's not romantic, just a friend comforting a friend. To let her know he's there.
Jay writes in his notepad, he can feel the weight of situation on his shoulders.
Something like this never sat right with him. A police officer who swore an oath to protect but instead he's inflicting the pain on someone innocent.
"Did he leave after that?" Jay asks, his voice is softer than normal, sensing how nervous the young woman is.
Y/n nods, "Yeah, it took me a while to get myself together after that I just kind of sat on the floor in shock. Once I snapped out of it I packed some of my things and came here" she sends a weary smile to Will.
Jay leans forward, closing his notepad and cautiously reaches out a hand, placing it on top of Y/n's shaky one that sits on her knee, catching her attention.
"I'm not sure what Will has told you but I work with intelligence. Just because this guy is a cop does not give him the right to hurt you and it certainly does not mean he will get away with this."
There's sincerity in Jay's voice, something in his eyes and his certainty that puts Y/n more at ease.
"Thank you" Y/n says softly--there's more to it, thank you for believing me. For listening.
She was terrified to go to any law enforcement about the abuse from a decorated detective but Jay made her feel silly for feeling that way. Not in a bad way but in a way that maybe if she had just talked to Will sooner, she could have gotten help sooner.
Jay gives her a sad smile, squeezing her hand.
"If it's okay with you, I need to take some pictures of your injuries and then the next step would be to come in to the district tomorrow morning so you can at least talk to my boss" Jay explains, taking his phone out.
Y/n looks at Will nervously and then back to Jay.
"You'll be there right?" She asks, feeling stupid and like a little kid. She knows Will can't come, he's working early in the morning.
Jay nods, a small smile on his face "I'll be with you the whole time".
--
The next morning Y/n woke up a little disoriented, her face and neck sore. The memories from the night before a blur.
She checked her phone, a few texts from some of her coworkers asking if she was okay after they heard she's taking a few days off.
Glancing at the bedside table, she noticed a bottle of Tylenol, a glass of water and a note.
"Take some Tylenol and drink water! Call me if you need anything, Jay should be picking you up around 9. - Will"
Y/n rolled her eyes at Will's overbearing nature but also smiled to herself. She was happy, not waking up wondering if he would be there.
She notices the time reads 8:45am.
"Shit" she mumbles, quickly getting out of the bed and making her way to the bathroom to get ready.
The first glance in the mirror was a shock, seeing her injuries for the first time since it happened. Her cheek and eye were a dark purple and blue. The fingerprints on her neck matching.
There was no way she could go to work like this. And mentally she thanked Will for calling her boss and letting them know she wouldn't be in the next few days due to a personal emergency.
She quickly and carefully washed her face, brushed her teeth and completed her morning routine-as best as she could-before getting dressed in whatever clothes she had grabbed from the apartment.
Thankfully she had grabbed an oversized hoodie that would cover her neck slightly in the way it sat on her frame. Slipping into a pair of jeans and a random pair of socks she felt a little more normal. The injuries forgotten for the moment.
A knock at the front door startled her for a second before she relaxed, realizing it must be Jay.
She quickly made her way to the front door, peaking through the peephole and then unlocking the door.
"HI, I'm ready I just need to get my phone and keys" Y/n said it quickly, a little too quickly, stepping to the side to let Jay in.
She was used to being rushed and then being screamed at when she wasn't quick enough.
Almost as quick as she said it she ran back to the guest room.
Jay frowned, watching her retreat quickly to grab the last of her things.
This guy really did a number on her.
That thought made his blood boil. From everything Will had told him about Y/n over the years, she was probably the sweetest and kindest person Will had ever met.
You have to be really messed up to hurt someone like that.
"Sorry that took so long" Y/n says as soon as she's back at the entryway, as if practiced.
"Hey" Jay says it softly, ducking down slightly to meet her eyes "You don't have to rush, you don't have to apologize. You're safe and he can't hurt you. Not with me around"
It took her a second to respond, not used to being talked to in such a kind way. But then something clicked in her brain. This is Jay. Will's brother. He's safe.
"I know, i'm sorry--shit--sorry it's out of habit" She finally meets his eyes, feeling secure.
Jay chuckles, shaking his head "Come on, you eat yet?" He asks, guiding her out of the apartment and locking the door behind him with the spare key Will gave him.
"Not yet"
"Breakfast first then, there's a diner down the street that has good food and decent coffee"
--
Y/n had been nervous when Jay suggested the diner, for one she looked horrible. and two, what if one of Brandon's cop buddies saw therm?
But then she realized she was with Jay and he wouldn't let anything happen to her.
So she let herself enjoy it and their time at the diner was full of Jay telling embarrassing stories about Will and laughter.
The ride to the district was easy, light, getting to know each other a little.
As Jay pulled his truck into the parking lot at the district he sensed her nerves.
He noticed her fidgeting with the seam on her hoodie, the way her leg bounced.
"Relax, breathe, you are safe. We're going through the back entrance, no one will see you but my unit. I'll be with you the whole time" Jay reassures her, flashing a smile at her.
Y/n nods, returning the smile, hers smaller but sincere. Her leg stills and she lets out a deep breath, smoothing her sweatshirt.
"Okay, yeah you're right, I'm being silly."
Jay shakes his head, reaching over and squeezing her hand.
"You are not being silly, you have every right to be nervous. You focus on yourself and I'll take care of the rest. Just breathe"
She takes a deep breath in through her nose, letting it out.
Jay takes the opportunity to get out of the driver side, making his way to her door and opening it for her.
"What a gentleman" Y/n says jokingly. But if she's honest, she's not used to a guy opening the door for her. Brandon would never do something that simple over the years they were together.
Jay chuckles as he shuts the door behind her, guiding her to the basement door.
Y/n notices the cage as soon as they enter the basement, glancing at Jay "I don't even want to know what that's for" she jokes, pointing at it.
"Don't worry you'll never be in it, I know someone that will be though" the last part is under his breath but Y/n hears it and she would be lying if she said that doesn't make her feel a little good.
Once upstairs, Y/n can feel all eyes on her as the four detectives at their desks watch them curiously.
None of them knew what was going on. The only one Jay looped in was Voight, explaining the situation late last night after he left his brother's apartment.
Voight was quick to tell Jay to bring her in. He had the same hatred for men like Brandon.
Jay knocks on the door to Voight's office, Y/n tries to relax but it's hard with all eyes on her. Jay senses it, sending her a small smile.
Which works, her heart rate relaxing slowly.
"Come in" a rough voice comes from the other side of the door.
Jay opens the door, letting Y/n in first before stepping in, shutting the door.
"Y/n this is my Sargent Hank Voight" Jay introduces, the older man standing from his desk.
"It's nice to meet you Y/n, Jay's explained the situation already. We're keeping this in house, meaning the only people that will be involved will be Jay, Myself, and the detectives sitting out there" Voight speaks softly, softer than normal trying to make her feel a little less nervous.
Y/n nods, giving Voight a small smile "Thank you, Sargent. I never thought anyone would believe me, I know it's tough with Brandon being a detec-"
The older man cuts her off, shaking his head "It doesn't matter who he is, he has no right to lay a hand on you. We're going to make sure he goes down for this" Hank reassures her, this time placing a hand on her arm softly.
"Would you be comfortable talking to the others to go over everything?" Jay asks softly from her right "No pressure"
Y/n contemplates it for a second before nodding "Yeah, as long as you're there"
That seems to be her answer for everything but as long as Jay is with her she feels safe.
"Okay, we'll talk in the conference room" Jay says, knowing it's a private area.
"You can take her to the conference room, I'll gather the team" Voight offers and Jay nods, opening the office door and guiding Y/n out.
The rest of the team watch them walk down the hall, curiosity eating away at them.
--
Meeting the rest of the intelligence went well, it was mostly Y/n recounting every thing that happened the past six months, which was when it really started to get bad with Brandon. When it got physical.
It started with little comments that were meant to bring her down, lower her self esteem. Then it built up to the physical stuff.
The rest of the unit either looked sorry for her or angry as she recounted everything, Jay by her side as she did so. Trying to give her some comfort.
The team all noticed that. The way she would tense up, Jay would place a hand on hers and she would relax.
You would think they knew each other for years.
The team had made a plan, Brandon was undercover currently and was supposed to be finished in two days. Voight was impatient, once they had things ready they were planning to pick him up. The photos of her injuries were evidence and they even found a girlfriend from the past, before Brandon got with Y/n.
It was in high school, he broke her jaw and cracked three of her ribs. It had been expunged form his record since he was technically a minor.
"That poor girl" Y/n said softly, feeling sadness as she sat in the chair next to Jay's desk, glancing at the girl that Haley and Adam were talking to in the small break room.
Jay only glanced at her, it was amazing how she felt so bad for the other girl, not even caring about her own injuries.
Brandon could have easily killed her that night and from what Jay had heard he almost did. Or at least probably thought about it.
Finishing up their interview, Haley guided the woman back down the stairs, the woman sending Y/n a sympathetic look.
"How are you doing?" Adam asks softly as he approaches Jay's desk and glancing at Y/n.
She shrugs "I don't know, I just feel bad for her going through that" she says quietly.
Adam smiles at her sadly before sitting at his desk.
Jay stands from his desk, picking up his keys and phone "Come on, I'll take you back to Will's. You should be resting" He doesn't say it as a question but not as an order either.
Y/n stands up, looking at Jay "I'm not broken" she says, hands on her hips.
Jay gives her a 'really' look "Will told me you were stubborn. There's nothing to do right now except let us work and arrest him. So, I am taking you home to rest and put some ice on your eye, okay?" He says it nicely, not in a mean way but in a concerned way.
Damn you Will Halstead
"William needs to mind his business" Y/n says under her breath as Jay guides through the hallway and downstairs to the basement.
"Couldn't agree more" Jay jokes, a smirk on his face and Y/n laughs quietly.
Once they get to the truck, Jay opens he passenger side door for her. Waiting for her to climb in the truck before shutting the door and starting the truck.
As Jay pulls out of the parking lot, Y/n has a thought swirling around in her mind.
"Jay" her voice has a different tone. scared. It makes Jay look over at her quickly.
"What if he finds me" it's quiet, whispered as if she says it too loud Brandon will just pop up.
"Then I'll be there. Hand me your phone" Jay's voice is calm, unwavering as he puts his hand out.
Y/n furrows her eyebrows, taking her phone out of her pants pocket and unlocking it, putting it in Jay's hand.
Keeping his eyes on the road, he taps the screen a few times, typing something in and then handing it back to her.
"You speed dial 1 and it will call me. Anything happens you call and I'll be there" It's a promise. A promise to show up. That's more than anyone has ever given her.
--
Y/n is sat on the couch in Will's living room, watching a movie and icing her eye.
Jay made sure she had everything she needed before leaving.
"Lock the door and lock the deadbolt after me" Jay had said and Y/n sent him a fake salute before he left the apartment, an amused look on his face.
It was only one more hour until Will was off shift and then maybe her uneasiness of being here alone with him out there would be gone.
That's when there's a loud knock on the apartment door.
Y/n's eyebrows furrow. Who could that be?
Then there's banging "Y/n, I know you're here"
Her blood ran cold.
No way.
This is not happening.
What a damn coincidence.
He wasn't supposed to be out of his assignment for two days.
Two more loud thumps.
"Come on, honey open the door" Brandon tries to sound nice, but Y/n knows better.
Her breathing is quickened as the door knob jiggles.
Shit. Shit. Shit.
Grabbing her phone and moving as quietly as possible she goes the guest room, shutting and locking the door and then going to the bathroom and shutting and locking that door.
She can hear him banging on the door more and yelling.
Okay maybe it's time to call for help.
Unlocking her phone with shaky hands, she opens the call app, pressing the 1.
She can hear the ringing and Jay answers on the second ring.
"He's here" That's all she can get out.
That's all she needs to say before Jay is moving from his desk. Placing his gun in the holster on his hip and grabbing his keys.
"Where are you right now?" he asks, staying calm.
He covers the phone, speaking to the team "We gotta go, he found her"
They're all on their feet in a matter of seconds and making their way downstairs--Kim telling Voight.
"I-in the bathroom" Y/n responds before there's a loud noise heard through the phone "Shit, I think he just broke the door"
Jay's got his truck started in a matter of seconds, Haley in the passenger seat as he speeds out of the parking lot, the phone on speaker now.
"Y/n don't hang up, just stay where you are. I'm on my way, we're coming." Jay tries to reassure her but he can barely stay clam himself as he hears more loud banging and yelling on the other end.
"Come on! I just want to talk! I don't know why you do this to me" Brandon's voice is muffled but Jay hear it and he exchanges worried glances with Haley.
Another loud bang.
"There you are, I know you talked to the cops you bitch"
On the other end, Brandon grabs her by her hair, landing a punch to her left abdomen.
Y/n groans doubling over as he pulls her up.
"They'll never believe you, a detectives words against you? It will never work." He has a sickeningly evil smirk on his face as he throws her to the ground.
Brandon draws his gun, aiming it at Y/n's curled up body on the bathroom floor.
"Chicago PD!" Y/n hears Haley yell and the relief washes over her.
"Put it down, Brandon!" Jay yells, gun pointed at the man.
"I'm on the job guys" He says as if that makes everything okay.
Voight steps up, coming behind him and pressing his gun to the back of Brandon's head.
"Put it down" His voice is gruff and Y/n can see the look in his eye, Brandon finally realizing they are not on his side.
He drops the gun, Hank grabbing him and slamming him against the wall as Haley kicks the gun away.
Jay moves on instinct not even giving it a second thought, grabbing Brandon by the collar and shoving him against the wall again.
"Guess what, I believe her" Jay's voice is darker than usual as he forcefully turns Brandon, shoving his face into the wall as he handcuffs him, making sure the cuffs are extra tight.
Adam takes Brandon from Jay "You realize what's going to happen to you? Sure they hate cops where you're going but you know what they hate more? Guys who beat women" it's not a threat or a suggestion. It's a promise.
Once Brandon's out of his sight, Jay relaxes, finding Y/n sat against the tub, Kim checking on her while Haley goes to direct the paramedics.
Jay kneels down next to her "I'm sorry I didn't get here sooner" he says it as if he's the only one responsible. As if they didn't save her.
"You showed up. That's all I needed" this time Y/n squeezes his hand comfortingly.
The paramedics finally enter the bathroom, taking Y/n's vitals and listening to her breathing. Of course she refuses to go to the hospital. Knowing they wouldn't be able to do much for her cracked ribs anyway.
The team has cleared out mostly, lingering in the rest of the apartment, Kevin and Kim speaking to the neighbors and getting statements.
Will comes running into the apartment, seeing the front door broken like it was kicked in.
He sees the team and he's terrified.
"Guys? Is Y/n-"
Adam stops him "She's okay, Brandon showed up, she's got a couple cracked ribs. Jay's with her and the paramedics are checking her out" he explains, pointing to the guest room.
Will lets out a sigh of relief "Thanks" he says before making his way to the guest room.
He finds Y/n now sat on the bed, Jay sat next to her and the paramedics packing up.
"Will, i am so sorry about the doors I will absolutely pay for them to get fixed" Y/n says immediately seeing her ginger best friend.
Will looks at her with wide eyes, his mouth opens and shuts before he finds his words "You think that's what I'm worried about?!" he questions in disbelief.
"Yes?" She says as a question and Jay does his best to stifle his laughter.
"Y/n I could care less about the doors" the red head sighs, looking at his brother "Thank you for being here"
"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else" Jay says, looking at Y/n with a small smile.
Will knows that look in his brother's eyes but he doesn't say anything.
"I'm getting my kit to check you out."
"Will, the paramedics literally cleared me"
"And I literally don't care, stop being stubborn" Will says sassily, leaving the room.
Y/n groans, but instantly regrets it, her hand going to her side as she coughs.
"Alright, easy there, sassy" Jay says, an amused tone in his voice as he places a hand on her back comfortingly.
Will returns to the room with his med kit, glancing between his brother and friend knowingly.
----
Taglist: @nevaehstreater18 @daisy-the-quake
When you just can't stand what writers & producers come up with
On Your Side
Pairing: Dad!Kelly Severide x Reader
Requested: no
Summary: When Kelly’s daughter is faced with a new confrontation that she can’t handle on her own, Y/N steps in, changing the dynamic for all three of them.
Word Count: 2.3K+
Tags/Warnings: Dad!Kelly, mentions of anxiety, feelings of being unwanted, single parent
A/N: Hiii, just one of those ideas that got away from me. Also in my Kelly feels so here's a Kelly fic after a long time!!
KELLY SEVERIDE MASTERLIST
You picked up your phone on the second ring, just as you were about to open your car door.
“Hey, shift over?” You asked.
You heard Kelly let out a little chuckle. “Soon. I need a favor.”
“Shoot,” You answered, propping your phone between your ear and shoulder as you climbed into your car.
“Ellie left one of her school files at my place, and she needs it today. She’s freaking out about getting in trouble. Can you swing by and get it, then come meet us at our usual breakfast spot?"
Without any trace of hesitation, you immediately agreed. “Sure, I can be there in 15.”
“Thanks, babe. I think it should be on the kitchen counter. See you soon.”
You hung up and made the all too familiar drive to Kelly’s place.
You’d known Kelly had a 12-year-old daughter even before you’d started dating. Kelly shared custody with his ex-girlfriend, and Ellie was given pretty free reign to decide when she wanted to sleep over at Kelly’s, as long as he wasn’t on shift.
You had a pretty cordial relationship with Ellie even though things had been a little awkward at first. You could tell that Ellie had tried her best to accept your presence in her father’s life, so you’d also done your best to give Ellie the space she needed while also making sure she knew you were happy to spend time with her and Kelly.
You made the quick trip to Kelly’s place and sure enough, 15 minutes later, you’d pushed open the diner door, spotting Kelly with his daughter in her usual favorite booth seat.
“Here you go.” You said with a smile, handing her file to her across the table.
Ellie smiled back at you. “Thank you. Sorry for the trouble.”
You smiled back. “No trouble. So, what are we having today? Pancakes?”
Ellie stuffed a forkful of pancakes into her mouth. “Dad wanted to order that for you but I told him he should just order the sausage platter instead."
“El, you better eat if you want to make it to school on time.” Kelly said, a tinge of a smile playing on his lips.
Ellie had just made a face at her father when your breakfast arrived at the table, a plate with a generous serving of sausages, hash browns and eggs.
“You know me much better.” You said, as Ellie smiled.
Kelly smiled as the both of you joked at his expense, but he was just happy that Ellie seemed much more at ease recently. There was still a tinge of awkwardness once in a while, but you’d reminded him it was to be expected and that you were fine and didn’t mind.
Ellie sat across from her mother’s boyfriend, Jake, feeling her stomach flip over and over.
“So, Ellie, I know you’ve been living with your mother for many years. Maybe it’s time for you to go live with your father.”
Ellie glanced up, feeling the pit in her stomach grow larger.
“Don’t you think this is too much for me? I’m barely in middle school. Why are you talking to me?” Ellie asked.
Jake gave Ellie a small smile. “Because it should come from you. You should tell your mother that you want to live with your dad. That would put your mom at ease.”
When Ellie didn’t say anything, Jake continued. “Listen, Ellie. Your mom hasn’t gotten around to telling you this but she’s pregnant. We’re having a baby.”
The words seemed to thunder through Ellie’s brain almost like they were going to swallow her whole.
This was the part she’d always been afraid of - her mother moving on, her father moving on. She could feel her body start to tremble just slightly.
“So, you see? It’ll be hard for all of us to keep staying together, right? Your mom has taken care of you all these years so don’t you think the baby should get some of that love, too? Besides, it'll be too much of a squeeze, don't you think?”
Ellie tugged at the hem of the sweatshirt she was wearing before she spoke again, her voice trembling slightly. “Does Mom know about this?”
“Ellie, Jake talked to me about it.” Almost as if on cue, Ellie heard her mother’s voice but it didn’t make her feel better or safe. "Come on, don't make things more difficult than they need to be."
Her mother had known. In fact, she was on Jake’s side.
"Ellie, you understand, don't you?" Her mother pressed again.
Then, another voice pierced through the fog that seemed to be about to engulf Ellie.
“What the hell do you think you’re doing?”
Ellie’s head snapped up just as you reached the table. You stood close to Ellie but still angled in a protective stance right next to the table they were seated at.
You’d been seated two tables away and the voices had traveled toward you. You’d hesitated about getting involved. After all, you weren’t sure how Ellie fit into all of this and honestly, you were in no place to talk to Ellie’s mother about her own daughter.
However, it had hit a nerve and you couldn’t sit back any longer. Before you knew it, you were already standing in front of Ellie.
“She’s a kid.” You said. Then, you turned toward Ellie’s mother. “She’s your kid.”
“You stay out of this.” Her mother snapped. "I don't need Kelly's new piece telling me how to take care of my daughter."
“I can’t. Not if you’re going to make Ellie feel like she’s an inconvenience. I won’t stand by and let her feel like she’s being dismissed. You…”
You were interrupted as you felt Ellie’s hand close around a couple of your fingers.
You turned to glance at her in surprise, half wondering if Ellie wasn’t too happy about you getting involved.
“Y/N, I wanna go.” Ellie’s voice was soft but firm.
This was also the first time she’d directly told you what she needed.
You nodded. “Shall we go see your dad?”
Ellie glanced up again. “Could we?”
“Yeah, come on. I’ll take you to the firehouse. Get your stuff.” You told Ellie before you led her out of the restaurant without another word.
You’d driven all the way to the firehouse in mostly silence, only breaking the silence once to apologize to Ellie for getting involved.
Ellie had just shook her head without saying anything.
You’d always known that Ellie’s mom wasn’t the greatest at decision making. She cared about Ellie in her own way but ultimately, she put her interests first. It drove Kelly crazy but at the same time, Kelly wasn’t keen on making too many big changes for Ellie’s sake, so he left it alone as long as Ellie was safe and relatively happy.
But today, things had gotten a little out of hand.
“Come on.” You said, as you killed the engine and got out of the car, leading the way in.
Kelly’s usual chair was empty, so you figured he was in his office.
“Hey Joe. Kelly around?” You asked, as the firefighters who were outside greeted Ellie enthusiastically.
“Hey, you guys! Yeah, he’s in his office. You want me to get him?” Cruz answered, flicking a concerned look at Ellie who seemed quieter than usual.
You shook your head. “No, we’ll go in.”
Cruz nodded and you led Ellie through the firehouse, waving at the rest of the guys in the common room, heading straight for Kelly’s office.
He spotted you just as you were approaching the office and he frowned.
“Hey, what’s…”
Kelly caught the look on Ellie’s face. “El?”
Ellie didn’t say anything, just walked straight into her father’s arms, burying her face into him.
Kelly was caught off-guard but still put his arms right around her. “What’s wrong?”
Ellie didn’t say anything but glanced at you.
“Hey El, why don't you go right in. I'll talk to Y/N for a bit then I'll come in, alright?” Kelly said, patting his daughter gently on the back of her head.
Ellie nodded, closing Kelly’s office door behind her.
Kelly took another glance at his daughter before he turned toward you.
“You good? What’s going on?” Kelly asked.
Honestly, you should have asked Ellie how much she wanted you to tell her father. Instead, here you were, stuck wondering how much you should tell Kelly.
Ultimately, you knew Kelly had to know everything, so you condensed it as much as possible, telling him everything you heard and saw.
You saw the emotions flicker across Kelly’s face - worry, disappointment, anger, and then worry again.
“Look, Kelly. I’m sorry.” You said.
Kelly frowned now. “What are you sorry for?”
“I know I shouldn’t have gotten involved. I just…” You paused. “I couldn’t let her sit there thinking she was unwanted. I know what it’s like. Hell, I was Ellie. Except, I didn’t have a father I could count on.”
Kelly leaned in to press you into a hug. “Thank you, Y/N.” He whispered, after a short beat.
“Hmm?” You hummed, even as you welcomed the hug.
“For being there for her.” Kelly said in a low voice.
You pulled away just slightly to look at him. “Look, I gotta run to a meeting but listen… you should do what’s right for her, alright? We’ll adapt around her. Whatever you decide, I’m good. Promise. Talk tomorrow?”
An unreadable look crossed Kelly’s eyes but he nodded. “Yeah, we’ll talk. Go do your thing.”
Kelly reached over to press a kiss against your lips.
“Be safe.” You said, before you turned to leave with a final wave to Ellie.
Kelly watched you go before he turned back around to glance at his daughter who was sitting perched on his bed.
With a small sigh, Kelly headed toward her.
Ellie looked up when Kelly came back in. “Dad, I…”
Kelly sat himself next to her. “Y/N told me some of what happened.”
Ellie just nodded, looking down.
“Why don’t you tell me what happened?” Kelly pushed gently.
Ellie exhaled before she looked up at her father again. “Mom’s pregnant.” She paused. “So, he told me to go stay with you.”
Kelly already knew this, yet he couldn’t help the way his body stiffened.
“Mom didn’t even argue.” Ellie shrugged.
Kelly exhaled slowly. “El, listen…”
“But Y/N did.” Ellie said, getting the words out quickly as if she was afraid she wouldn’t say it again if she lost this opportunity.
Kelly fell silent again.
“Y/N… she… no one other than you has ever done that for me.” Ellie said quietly. “Not even Mom.”
Kelly leaned toward Ellie, pulling her gently into his arms.
“El, what do you want?” Kelly asked.
Ellie looked up at her father.
“El, I told you before. You can stay with me whenever you want. So, what do you want to do?"
Ellie hesitated. “Dad, can I come live with you? I promise I won't get in your way."
“I would love to have you with me.” Kelly said quietly, pressing a kiss to the top of Ellie’s head. "You don't have to earn your right to be with me. You were born with that right."
Ellie just quietly buried her face into Kelly’s embrace.
When you arrived at the loft the next day, it was empty.
You figured Kelly and Ellie would be here soon. Kelly had dropped you a text to let you know that Ellie was staying with him at the firehouse that night and they’d be home once his shift was over. You didn’t need Kelly to tell you anything else.
You knew.
Ellie had been an unplanned pregnancy. In fact, Kelly had only found out after they’d broken up but Kelly had always been involved in Ellie’s life. So, it was a given that Kelly would choose the best for his daughter, and if that meant living with him, you knew Kelly would do it.
So, you headed into Kelly’s bedroom, clearing out some of your stuff that you’d left there before heading to the second bedroom and cleaning it up a little.
You figured Ellie would be feeling a little raw and vulnerable, so you didn’t want her to feel like this wasn’t her home.
You’d just straightened up most of the room when you heard the main door open.
“Hey.” Kelly greeted, heading toward you and giving you a quick kiss.
“Hey, good morning Lieutenant.” You said, before turning toward Ellie.
“Hey Ellie.” You greeted.
Ellie smiled at you as Kelly put Ellie’s bag on the ground.
“So, listen. I spoke to Ellie’s mom. We decided that Ellie would stay here. I think a change of pace will be good for her anyway.” Kelly said.
You nodded and smiled. “That sounds like a good plan.”
There was a small silence and Kelly’s eyes flicked to the small bag by the couch.
“Y/N?” Kelly asked, an eyebrow raised.
You smiled at Kelly. “Listen… I figured you guys might need some space… So, I can come around less for a bit. At least until things settle.”
Kelly frowned. “What…”
“You don’t have to go.” Ellie interrupted.
Both you and Kelly glanced at her.
Ellie was already settled into the couch, looking at the both of you.
“I… I want you here.” Ellie said quietly.
“You sure about this, Ellie?” You said. “I’m not… I’m not really leaving. I’ll just come around here less. We can still have breakfast and…”
Ellie shook her head. “No, I want you to stay. Please?”
You paused, your eyes scanning Ellie’s face.
“Yeah, of course.” You paused. “Thank you, Ellie. And if you need anything, you know you can come to me. I love hanging out with you. At least I have someone on my side when your dad’s being difficult.”
Ellie cracked a smile and Kelly’s hand closed around yours.
“Thank you, Y/N.” Ellie said quietly.
You smiled. “I’ll always be on your side, Ellie. Even against your dad.”
Ellie smiled, but after a beat she spoke again. “And, it’s El.”
You paused. Ellie usually only let her dad call her that.
You echoed her smile as it sunk in. “El, it is.”
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Having visions of Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan “Jack” Abbot in his Army Blues at a formal event with his girl and he’s showing her off to all his medic buddies and they’re incredibly jealous of him and his controversially younger fiancée and imagine undressing him from all those layers later that night but he’s itching to hang it all back up properly because some habits just can’t be forgotten
Heat
Jay Halstead x pregnant!reader
Summary: When Chicago is in a heat wave, Y/n feels unwell while pregnant, worrying Jay
It was definitely the hottest day of the year. Chicago was going through a heat wave and Y/n had never felt more miserable. It also didn't help that she was seven months pregnant with her husband's baby, Jay Halstead. She could feel the beads of sweat falling from her forehead and her face heating up so much that she must have looked like a walking tomato.
Jay warned her to stay at home and protect herself from the heat, but when the air conditioning broke, Y/n decided to go out to buy a fan. But she didn't know it would be so difficult to walk and even breathe on this hellish day. It seemed like with every breath she took, the air burned her lungs. She walked slowly, one hand on her stomach protectively, trying to at least get to the store that was a few blocks away.
Y/n knew Jay would be so upset if he knew she left the house in this weather. Since she became pregnant, the man has become even more protective than before. However, she knew he was having a busy day and couldn't leave work just because Y/n was hot — although he would do that if Y/n called him and asked to buy a fan.
But everything got worse when Y/n's vision became blurry and a feeling of nausea appeared. Jay's wife leaned against the wall next to her, trying to get some shade to compose herself. She brought a hand to her mouth, trying to breathe slowly to calm her heart that was beating rapidly against her chest.
"Miss! Miss, are you okay?" a man appeared in front of her, with a worried look. "Do you need me to call an ambulance?"
"No, it's okay." she managed to whisper. "Could you help me get to Fire Station 51? It's just a two-minute walk." the man, already advanced in age, seemed friendly enough for Y/n to trust him. And the truth was that she had no other option, as it seemed like her legs were going to give out at any moment.
"Sure thing, ma'am. Here, lean on my arm." he agreed with a gentle smile, offering her his arm to help her walk. "In this heat, no one should be walking around. It could be dangerous, especially in your condition."
"I know." Y/n sighed, knowing that beyond this lecture, she was going to hear worse from Jay when he found out. "But I wanted to buy a fan. It wasn't even a five-minute walk."
The man patted her hand in understanding. "I don't judge you, dear. My wife has already had three children, and in all of them, she was very stubborn. I understand that you don't want to be dependent on us, poor husbands, but we just want you to be well."
The woman didn't respond, now feeling even more guilty for not calling Jay to ask for this favor. She didn't want to bother him, but the plan didn't go as expected. The rest of the short walk was done in silence, Y/n's cheeks becoming more flushed, and having difficulty breathing in the hot air.
When they finally saw the fire station, Jay's wife couldn't be more relieved. Gabby and Brett, who were getting out of the ambulance, having just arrived from a call, noticed Y/n's tired form and immediately took hurried steps towards her, helping to carry her and him into the shade.
"Y/n? What happened? Are you feeling okay?" Gabby asked worriedly, helping her into the back of the ambulance. Y/n sat down, one hand on her stomach and the other on her back, closing her eyes as she started to feel dizzy.
"I'll call Jay." she managed to hear Brett say, but she was more focused on not throwing up than responding to the paramedics.
Thankfully, the man who helped her took charge of explaining what had happened. Y/n had the strength to open her eyes and thank him deeply for his help, asking if she could do anything to repay him, but he just shook his head and smiled. Then he left, as Y/n was now with people who could help her medically.
"What are your symptoms, Y/n?"
"I don't feel well, Gabby." her voice shook, fighting back the tears that threatened to fall. "I'm sick, dizzy, and a headache is forming."
After leaving the phone call, Brett began taking her vitals, while Gabby applied a cold compress to her forehead. "You're most likely dehydrated, we have to go to the hospital to put you on an IV and check the baby."
"But he's fine, right?" Y/n sobbed scared, clutching her belly as she looked at her friends with a frown.
"Yes, he seems fine. But just to be sure." Gabby comforted, starting to help Y/n lay down on the stretcher.
"What did Jay say?"
"Well, he—" the blonde paramedic started to say, but was interrupted by the sirens of a police car, getting closer and closer. "I guess that's your answer."
"How did he get here so fast?" Y/n thought out loud as he watched the police officer get out of the still moving car. He immediately looked around for his wife. When he saw them, he quickly broke into a run, his eyes wide in panic. Hailey got out of the driver's seat, right behind Jay.
"I'm really sorry."
"What, baby? You don't have to apologize." Jay knelt down next to Y/n, gently cupping her face with his hands so he could assess her condition. Unconsciously, his hand slid down to her round belly, finally managing to take a deep breath when he felt a light kick against his touch. "I shouldn't have left you alone in this weather. You're okay, baby."
When Brett called him to explain the situation, he felt a sense of fear like he had never felt before. Not even when he had been shot at, kidnapped or beaten. The most important people in his life being in danger was his worst nightmare.
Luckily, they were in the neighborhood and managed to get to the fire station in record time thanks to Hailey's driving. Over time, Y/n and the blonde had become very close, often ganging up together against Jay. Not that he minded, since hearing his wife's giggles and knowing she was more relaxed when Jay was working as she trusted his partner to protect him.
"We need to get them to the hospital. Y/n is showing signs of dehydration and the baby needs to be checked." Jay's head turned unusually quickly to Gabby in concern. She hurried to add, "They both seem to be fine, but I want to make sure."
"I'll go back to the police station and let Voight know you won't be working anymore this week." Hailey offered. "I hope you're okay, Y/n. I'll stop at the hospital to check on you."
"Thank you, Hails." Y/n smiled weakly.
"Let's go." The man nodded, kissing Y/n's forehead comfortingly. He climbed into the back of the ambulance with her and held her hand the whole way while Gabby got into the driver's seat and Brett checked some vital signs.
The ride was relatively calm, but Y/n was getting paler and sicker by the minute. Jay mumbled words in an attempt to calm her down, but inside, he felt like he couldn't breathe. They should have called two ambulances because he was close to passing out.
Finally, they arrived at the hospital where Maggie and Will were waiting for them at the entrance. In no time, she was already settled in and several doctors were checking everything they could. Jay stayed by her side the whole time, answering some questions from the doctors when necessary.
The fluorescent lights of the hospital were harsh against Y/n’s already sensitive eyes as she waited for someone to tell her what was going on. Jay never let go of her hand, his grip firm but gentle, his thumb softly brushing against her knuckles in a silent attempt to comfort her. Her heart was pounding, but the cool sheets of the hospital bed and his touch gave her some relief.
Will Halstead, dressed in his white coat and looking every bit the composed doctor he was, entered the room, clipboard in hand. His face softened the moment he saw Y/n and Jay.
"Hey," Will greeted, his tone warm yet professional. "How are we doing here?"
"Not great, Will," Y/n admitted, her voice weak as she tried to give him a small smile. "I feel like I’ve been run over by a truck."
Jay immediately turned to his brother. "What’s going on? Is she okay? Is the baby okay?" His words came out in a rush, and it was clear he was doing everything he could to keep his composure.
Will raised a hand to calm his younger brother. "Take a breath, Jay," he said, flipping through the chart. "We ran some tests and monitored Y/n’s vitals. She’s severely dehydrated, which is why she felt dizzy and nauseous. Her blood pressure dropped, but thankfully, the baby is doing great. The ultrasound shows a strong heartbeat."
Y/n let out a shaky breath of relief, her free hand instinctively moving to her belly. Jay visibly relaxed beside her, the tension in his shoulders easing.
"So, she’s okay? The baby’s okay?" Jay asked again, needing to hear it one more time to truly believe it.
"Yes," Will assured them with a kind smile. "We’re giving her IV fluids to rehydrate her, and she should start feeling better soon. I do want her to stay overnight for observation, just to be safe, but I’m confident she and the baby will be fine."
"Thank you, Will," Y/n said, her voice cracking slightly as tears of relief welled in her eyes.
Will reached out to pat her head. "No need to thank me, Y/n. Just promise me you’ll stay out of this heat, okay?"
She nodded, feeling a mix of guilt and gratitude. "I’ll try," she murmured, glancing at Jay.
Jay turned to Will. "Thanks, man."
"Anything for my sister-and-law and nephew." He winked at her before stepping back. "I’ll check on you in a bit, but for now, just rest."
As Will left, the room fell quiet, except for the soft beep of the monitors and the rhythmic drip of the IV. Jay pulled a chair close to the bed, sinking into it as he brought Y/n’s hand to his lips, pressing a lingering kiss to her fingers.
"You scared me today," he said softly, his eyes glistening as they locked onto hers. "Don’t ever do that again, Y/n. Please."
"I’m sorry," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "I didn’t mean to worry you. I just... I didn’t want to bother you at work."
Jay let out a soft, incredulous laugh, shaking his head. "Bother me? Y/n, you and this baby are the most important things in my life. I’d drop everything in a heartbeat if you needed me."
Her lips trembled, and tears spilled down her cheeks. "I didn’t think it would be such a big deal. It was just a fan."
He leaned forward, cupping her face with both hands, his thumbs gently wiping away her tears. "Listen to me," he said, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "Nothing is ‘just’ when it comes to you or our family. You’re my world. Promise me, no more trying to do everything on your own. I’m here for you. Always. Ask me to buy you a fan, food, a house, I don't care, I'll do it in a heartbeat."
She nodded, fresh tears streaming down her face. "I promise," she whispered, her voice breaking.
Jay leaned in, pressing a kiss to her forehead before resting his against hers. For a moment, they stayed like that, their breaths mingling as the world outside the hospital room faded away.
"I love you," she said softly, her hand finding its way to his cheek.
"I love you more," he replied, his voice low and full of sincerity. He placed a hand on her belly, feeling the soft flutter of movement beneath his palm. "And I love you, little one. But you’ve gotta cut your mom some slack, okay? No more giving her a hard time."
Y/n laughed weakly, the sound light and sweet. "Hear that?" she said, looking down at her bump. "You are already giving Daddy white hairs."
As the IV continued to drip and the monitors beeped steadily, the weight of the day began to lift. They were together and okay. That was all that they needed.
"Are you— you kidding me? Kelly, we’re pregnant." CHICAGO FIRE 13.22 'It Had to End This Way'
Shawn hatosy for the Quinn app! 'Yes, chef' will be on the Quinn app April 21st!