#I love Al and Trudy's friendship so much

[kamryn1963]

So Long, London- Chapter 2

Surprise, I guess? Somehow this what was going to be a oneshot, evolved and now I have the next three chapters planned and I know it will be longer.

No idea how many chapters yet or how often I'll post, ideally every couple days, but my motivation to write anything has been pretty inconsistent lately so will see. A current project usually motivates me so who knows.

Anyhow enjoy!

It had been a few weeks since that night. The night Al called it quits and left, ending up at Trudy’s. 

Since then a few things have changed. 

Al and Meredith had started the divorce process. They had a long and emotional conversation the day after Al left, and had come to the same conclusion that whatever they once had was gone. Al had talked a bit with Lexi, but she had been too emotional to talk more and Al eventually left. 

He’d been staying with Trudy since then and it was going good. They would have breakfast together, head to work and then order in or make something for dinner. 

Most of the time Al cooked. Trudy was already doing him a big favor and letting him stay so the least Al thought he could do was make dinner. 

“You do know that I can cook too”. Trudy said one night as Al started cooking the pasta for the chicken parmesan he was making. 

“I do. But you're letting me stay here for free and won’t let me give you some money. The least I can do is cook”. Al replied and Trudy sighed. 

“I don’t need your money, Olinsky. I’m just helping you the same you helped me”. 

He thought about that time years ago when Trudy was with her then fiance Marcus who cheated on her a week before their wedding. Trudy had rightfully been a wreck after that and Al and Meredith had offered their spare room to her which she accepted. 

Lexi had only been around five at the time and didn’t really understand, but loved having her Aunt Trudy around. Trudy had stayed for a few weeks before getting back on her feet and finding her own place. 

Al knew what he was going through now was similar to then and he should just accept Trudy’s help but he couldn’t help but feel like he had to pay her back. That he was burdening her no matter how many times she told him he wasn’t. That he was a bother and should’ve gone somewhere else. 

That he shouldn’t have burdened Trudy with his own marriage problems. Especially when he knew she was in a new good relationship with that firefighter, Randall, Al thought his name was. 

Her life was going well and he was happy for her. He shouldn’t be ruining that with his fucked up life. 

“Alvin, I can hear your thoughts from here. You're not a burden and never have been”. Trudy said suddenly, her voice surprisingly gentle as she rested her hands on his shoulders. 

“I’m sorry”. Al didn’t know what else to say other than an apology. 

“Don’t be. Why don’t I call Hank? You’ve made enough food for us three and we can eat and drink like the old days?” Trudy suggested and Al couldn’t even find it in him to argue. 

He knew he’d probably be questioned on how he was feeling and his emotional state, but for once he didn’t care to stop what was going to happen anyway. 

Trudy nodded and once she thought he was calm enough, headed to the living room to call Hank while Al finished dinner up. 

Hank was there twenty minutes later just as Al and Trudy were plating their food. Hank joined him silently and soon they all settled down on Trudy’s couch.

Hank, unsurprisingly, was the one who broke the silence. “So Al, how’s things going with the divorce?” 

Al nodded as he took a sip of his drink and turned to Hank. “Good, just settling things between us like the house and what not”. Al really didn’t feel like going into more detail on that right now. 

He still wasn’t sure if this was the right decision. Sure everybody, including Meredith, did but some part of Al felt like he should’ve tried harder to fix his marriage. That he should’ve been a better man. A better husband. 

“Well that’s good. Do you need some time off? I’m happy to give you a couple days”. Hank offered and Al didn’t say anything at first. 

He had thought about asking already. Lexi had agreed yesterday to meet with him to finally talk in the next couple days, so he wanted to take the day off for that and he and Meredith were settling their bigger affairs in the following few days which was going to take time. 

“You should, Alvin”. Trudy replied and he nodded. 

“Alright, just let me know when you’ll be back. You have plenty of personal days though”. Hank responded and Al was extremely grateful for his friends unwavering and unconditional support. 

An hour later found them talking over a few beers. The conversation was light and Al had missed this. It had been a long time, probably before Hank was arrested, before Camille died that this had happened. 

The four of them, Al, Trudy, Hank and Camille, used to get together a lot after the kids went to bed and just talk and drink. 

Al had missed that, he missed Camille and he knew he always would. He reminded himself to stop by her grave soon. 

“It’ll be okay, man”. Al was snapped out of his thoughts by Hank’s slightly slurred words. 

“What?” Al asked as he shook his head and looked between Hank and Trudy. 

“I said it’s going to be okay”. Hank repeated. 

“Yeah”. Al said hesitantly really not wanting to talk about his fucked up life anymore that night. 

“Alvin it is. I know it doesn’t seem like it right now and I can imagine it’s hard to think about but everything is going to be okay. Maybe not today or maybe no even next month, but eventually it will be. You’ll be okay, happy”. Trudy added and maybe it was the alcohol talking but Al wanted to cry. 

Al didn’t say anything, since he was pretty sure he would’ve started crying if he did, but he just nodded. God, he loved them. 

“I love you guys”. Al said and Hank reached out grabbing his hand and squeezing it. 

“We know”. Hank replied and Al laughed as he leaned his head against Hank’s shoulder. 

“Glad to know it didn’t get to your head yet”. Al replied as Trudy smirked from where she sat on the armchair across from them. 

Yeah, Al had missed this a lot. 

The rest of the night was just as nice. Al was thankful it was the weekend as they were up drinking and talking later than Al would like to admit. Eventually around two, Hank crashed on the couch and Al and Trudy made it to their respectable rooms for the night. 

Al knew he was going to be so hungover in the morning, but knew he didn’t regret it. He needed this and he knew Hank and Trudy had known that.

[thewannabewriter]

🚨🚨 LONG(ish) POST ALERT 🚨🚨

AFJSKDHLJYEWTKOBCAHJB!!!!!!

That was a great part 1 to the Grudge Match. And I know that for a fact because I couldn't stop smiling from the very first line. Seriously, I giggled at the very first line and barely stopped.

I love the mix of the different POVs throughout, it really solidifies how together they all are and all the different friendships and view points.

I don't know which parts I loved more, Bex explaining her rules or Abrams reading out the Grudge Match rules (not gonna lie, I would happy read about all of those incidents that then had to be made into rules 😂). It's all so One Chicago chaos coded that it's just perfect!

I love that Bex chooses to support one person from each team and then roast everyone else. I also really love that she was left with no other choice from the other three to have Mouse be their PD pick, there really was no other choice though 😁 I hope we get to see how they cheer for Sylvie too. I have no doubt she'll shine from their cheering. But I really loved how Bex had to remind Mouse to run, that had me belly laughing, it was just so him. And the blush from Mouse after realizing (and having Dawson point it out) that he was the pick was adorable. And I can't wait to see the support groups reaction to the whole thing, I can just imagine what they'll have to say. Also, that whole scene was so cute, they really are great friends for Mouse.

Speaking of adorable, all of the couple reactions to each other. Mainly Connor having heart eyes at seeing Will with the Hermann kids. Emery was right, fair.

But Bex practically melting at seeing Mouse in his Baseball uniform, that was just

She's really gonna have to work to earn that cookie though, I would personally struggle 🙃😂

Speaking of uniforms, I love that Bex goes all out. Who said it had to just be the two teams who coordinated? And the choice for the design on the back, was pure brilliance.

Speaking of teams, talk about two unexpected additions! Firstly, KOL!!! Oh my god, I CACKLED at that whole section. First that he even got involved, then that he got Jay out and then that it was decided he would be playing for both teams!!!! I can really just imagine Jay pouting for the rest of the game (or at least until either someone else got out because of Kol or because he got someone out). And yes, Kol does need a uniform nex year Bex, great idea, truly inspired! But the whole Bex/Abrams interaction was genius! My face is hurting from smiling so much reading this. And then, LEXI!!!!! That was a surprise, a very welcome one, but surprise none the less. I'm assuming we'll get to see more of her going forward? Is Bex gonna go mama chicken and add another one to her flock?

The HECKLES!!!!! Brilliant 👏 and if this is only the start, I can't wait to see what else you're coming up with!

And we got a Hailey viewpoint, an epic Competitive Chris speech and Trudy being the icon that she is. I genuinely don't know which I loved more, her interaction with Mouch or her speech to the PD crew (in the words of Al - "that was beautiful" 😂😂) and I loved that Rusek was still bitter that Al had been the PD pick the previous year.

Overall, I don't know if you can tell, but I loved it. I had no favorite parts, just a lot that I absolutely adored. And the fact that this is only Part 1? I'm so excited for Part 2.

500 Miles (Chapter Eight)

Summary: This is Part Nineteen of my series A Herrmann/Halstead Production. It is an AU where Christopher Herrmann's mom had an affair with Pat Halstead resulting in a baby. The series follows this OC character (Rebecca "Bex" Herrmann) as she grows up and gets to know her brothers and the various Chicago teams. It is very much an AU, just to underscore that. It doesn't follow the same timeline and characters will follow different paths.

Click here for the Series Rundown where you can find the links to read all of the previous installments (which I highly recommend you do so that this one makes sense.)

Rating: Teen and Up

Relationships: Christopher Herrmann & Original Female Character, Jay Halstead & Original Female Character, Will Halstead & Original Female Character, Jay Halstead & Will Halstead, Greg 'Mouse' Gerwitz/Original Female Character, Will Halstead/Connor Rhodes, Assorted OC Couples

Warnings: Light Angst, Emotional Conversations, Dealing with Past Trauma, Minor Character Injury, Swearing, Implied Sexual Content, Kissing, An Unholy Amount of Fluff

A/N: To underscore my previous note, this is an alternate universe so things have unfolded differently. This will not follow the canon arcs exactly by any means. But I hope you'll still enjoy it!

Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Saturday, August 1st – Grudge Match Day

***

Connor

As demanded requested, Connor arrived at Will and Bex’s place precisely at eight am. Bex’s text had said she needed time to give them FURTHER INTRUCTIONS. All caps.

He figured he shouldn’t miss it.

Will answered when Connor called up to be buzzed in. “There’s still time to back out,” his whispered tones crackled out of the speaker. “Save yourself.”

“Not a chance,” Connor laughed. “We’re in this together.”

Muttering something about a beautiful, foolish man, Will buzzed him through and Connor headed upstairs.

The door whipped open before he could knock and Will stood there, in all of his Grudge Match day glory. Connor bit at his lip, trying not to laugh again as Will sighed in resignation.

“Don’t even start,” he said, stepping back to let Connor in. “Bex made one for you too.” He was decked out in a hot pink baseball shirt that had long black sleeves. The front said Grudge Match 2015 in black letters and Canteen Crew in hot pink down the left arm.

Connor reached out to tug at the sleeve. “I like it.”

“Good!” Bex said as she came down the hallway and chucked one at him. “Put yours on!”

“Yes, ma’am.” He ducked into the bathroom to change, pausing to snort when he saw the back.

Will was waiting in the hall still when he emerged.

“Well?” Connor did a slow turn for him.

“Ugh,” Will groaned, shaking his head. “Fuck you for making that look good.”

“Mm.” Connor leaned in for a kiss. “After the game,” he whispered against Will’s mouth.

Will instantly brightened and pulled him in for a second one—only to have to break apart as Bex hollered at them from the kitchen.

“Stop making out and get in here!”

“Anyone else seen those shirts yet?” Connor asked Will who shook his head.

“Just the rest of the canteen crew which is Emery, Donna, and—uh, hang on—oh, Isaac, and Devon,” he said, counting everyone off on his fingers. “Bex likes to keep it as a surprise for the teams each year.”

“That’s…gonna be fun,” Connor grinned as they rounded the corner into the kitchen. Emery was already seated at the table and Bex ushered them to their own spots before grabbing a platter of French toast and setting it down by a plate of sliced fruit.

“Dig in,” she said. “You’ll need your strength.”

“How come Donna, Isaac, and Devon aren’t at this pre-game meeting?” Connor asked as he started loading up his plate.

“They helped out last year,” Bex said, waving off his question. She filled up four coffee cups and brought them over, finally taking her own seat. “They know how it goes.”

Will gulped down a mouthful and frowned at her. “Didn’t you tell us everything already? I have a huge list of instructions in my phone.”

“That was the boring stuff.” Bex shook her head. “Setting up the canteen and whatever.”

‘And whatever’ Will mouthed at him, rolling his eyes, and Connor wiped at his face with a napkin to hide his smile.

“No, this—this is the real information,” Bex declared. “I saved it for today so it would be fresh in your minds.”

“Where’s the power point presentation?” Emery snarked, still half-asleep as she sipped her coffee.

“First of all, rude,” Bex said, pointing at her. “Second of all, keep that energy. That’s exactly the kind of attitude we’re looking for today.” She held up her hand. “I have three simple rules for a successful Grudge Match. One, heckle everyone who comes up to bat,” Bex said, ticking the points off on her fingers. “Two, celebrate anyone who makes it home, but you have to cheer ‘GOAL!’ every time.”

“Seriously?” Will snorted. “Absolutely.” Bex grinned at him. “Watch how it make Jay and Chris twitch and you’ll thank me.” She lowered her hand. “The last rule is we pick one person from each team to be our special little guy and we cheer for them the whole time as loudly and as obnoxiously as possible. Last year, I cheered for Tony and Al and the year before that it was Shay and Erin. Almost everyone at 51 has had a turn except for Sylvie because she’s new so I was thinking we could go with her and then from 21, maybe Sam—”

“Mouse,” Emery, Will, and Connor said at once. Then grinned at each other for their freaky mind-meld moment. Bex’s mouth dropped open and then slammed shut as she shook her head. “No. No, no, no,” she said. “Come on, Sam’s the newest and—”

“Mouse,” Emery, Will, and Connor repeated.

“I don’t want him to think we’re teasing him,” Bex protested. “I mean, isn’t everyone getting teased by us today?” Emery pointed out. “I thought that was the whole schtick?”

“It’ll be like a seal of approval,” Will said, ignoring Bex’s groans.

“Speaking as a fellow outsider—” Connor began, cut off by Bex and Will booing him and Emery tossing a piece of toast crust his way. “Okay, fine, as someone new to the group…”

Bex rolled her eyes and he took that as permission to continue. “I think Mouse will take it in the spirit it’s intended,” Connor said.

“And anyway, it’s three against one,” Emery added.

“That too,” Will agreed.

“You’re all horrible and I regret nothing about the shirts,” Bex said, downing the last of her breakfast. “Come on, hustle up! We gotta go!”

They inhaled the rest of their food and helped load up the cars with the piles of supplies Bex had ready. She dug through the bags and handed out matching hot pink baseball caps. Grudge Match 2015 was stitched on the front in black thread with Canteen Crew on the back.

“Hats too?” Will said, eyeing his sulkily. “I feel like you went a bit above and beyond with the accessories this year.”

Bex turned pink and busied herself organizing the back of the trunk, mumbling something.

“What was that?” Will leaned in and poked at her. “There’s a reason behind torturing us too?”

She turned around with a huff. “I said this is the first year you’ve come to the Grudge Game and I wanted to make it extra fun and yes, getting tortured is part of that.” She shrugged, fidgeting with her own cap. “Jay and Chris have had more years of it so this is for us. Making memories, you know?”

“Dammit, Bex. Now I can’t even be annoyed.” Will deflated, looking down at the cap with a soft grin before shoving it on his head. “Alright, Canteen Crew. Let’s do this.”

Emery and Bex cheered before getting into the Tin Can and Will followed Connor over to his car. Connor pulled him in for a kiss when they reach the door.

“You’re making that outfit look pretty good yourself, Halstead,” he murmured.

“You’re a dirty liar, but I’ll take it,” Will laughed, tilting his head to deepen the kiss.

Three loud honks had them pulling apart to see Bex and Emery stopped at the exit to the parking lot. Bex was hanging out of her window as she hit the horn again. “We’re on a schedule here, fellas!”

“Alright, already!” Will hollered back at her, shaking his head as the Tin Can sputtered out of the lot. “Tyrant.”

“You love it,” Connor said, heading for the driver’s side.

“Yeah.” Will sighed. “I kinda do.”

Connor grinned to himself as they got into the car. It was shaping up to be a great day.

***

Bex

It was coming up on ten am and almost everything was ready. They had the canteen set up in the space behind the backstop and the parking lot. Both teams had arrived as well as the rest of their canteen crew.

Donna, Isaac, and Devon were decked out in their shirts and hats, exchanging greeting with everyone. Uncle Bo stopped by to give Donna a kiss and raised an eyebrow at Bex.

“This is another Bex original, I take it?” he asked, laughing when she nodded proudly. “Can’t wait for Herrmann’s reaction.”

“Oh, he’ll—”

“Seriously, Bex?”

“I guess you won’t have to wait long,” she said as Chris came over, shaking his head.

“Turn around,” Chris said, already spinning her gently. “Let me see this monstrosity up close.” He groaned. “Never should have let you have crayons as a kid. Look where it’s led.”

“I think it’s my favourite one yet,” Donna said and Bex beamed back at her.

She was actually quite pleased with how this year’s shirts turned out. Aside from the lettering on the front and the sides, she’d also done up a design for the back. It said “Two houses, without a shred of dignity…” and had a little doodle of William Shakespeare in a baseball outfit with his little ruff at the neck, holding a hand to his forehead in despair.

Some of her best work.

“Ugh.” Chris let her go and looked over their set up. “You guys all set? We’re gonna get started soon.”

“Ready to go,” Bex said, knocking off a salute.

“Cheeky.” He said, wagging a warning finger at her as she stalked off. “Nothing but cheek.”

Bex rocked back on her heels, looking out at her friends and family gathered, all chatting and laughing. She loved this. Everyone all together. Getting ready for a day of fun.

Jay called out from where he was hanging out with the team from 21 and waved at them.

She waved back with a grin.

Mouse popped up beside him, offering his own wave, side of his mouth quirked up in a little smile. Bex managed to wave at him too even as her mouth went dry.

He looked good. Like—his jersey was hugging him in all the right places and his shoulders—she didn’t remember his shoulders looking that broad. And his cap was set just right and now his head was thrown back as he laughed at something Jay was saying and—

“Hey,” Emery said, bumping her shoulder into Bex’s. “What are you looking at—oh.” She snorted. “You poor girl,” she said. “Gonna make it?”

The sound Bex made in response could probably best be described as that of a dying goose.

“What going on?” Devon asked as he and Isaac sidled up to them. Emery wordlessly pointed at Mouse and the two of them immediately nodded with little ‘ah’s of understanding.

“Reconsidering the ‘taking it slow’ plan?” Isaac asked with a little elbow nudge.

“I am only so strong.” Bex closed her eyes, whimpering.

“Come on.” Devon wrapped an arm around her shoulders, urging her forward. “They’re going to read out the rules soon. That’ll be a good distraction.”

Bex perked up. The reading of the rules was one of her favourite parts.

“And I’ll buy you a cookie later if you manage to keep your hands to yourself,” Isaac added. She shoved him and he just laughed, completely unrepentant. Bex was absolutely going to make him follow through on that promise.

The four of them made their way through the crowd so they’d have a good view of the mound where Chris and Dr. Abrams were getting set up.

Things were about to begin.

***

Will

Will and Connor stood off to the side, keeping one eye on the canteen and the other on the mound as Chris and Sam Abrams got ready to kick things off. The two teams were lined up on either side while Maggie, April, and Ethan were decked out in their umpire gear behind them.

Chris fiddled around with the wireless mic from the sound system Devon and Isaac had brought, tapping on it a few times until he was convinced it was on.

He cleared his throat before raising the mic to speak. “Friends,” Chris called out, smiling at the team from 51. They all let out cheers and whoops.

“Enemies!” He narrowed his eyes at the team from 21 who let out a bunch of good-natured boos.

“And those of you who have yet to pick at side…” Will laughed as Chris scowled over at Bex who cackled back at him with zero remorse. Chris’s mouth twitched as he fought to keep his scowl before turning back to the crowd.

“Welcome to the Grudge Match!” He held his arms out wide and everyone in the crowd started cheering and whistling.

Will looked over at Connor who looked thoroughly delighted by the whole thing already, grinning like a little kid. A little pang shot through him. This was probably world’s away from anything Connor experienced growing up. He was suddenly grateful for all of the ridiculousness Bex had heaped upon them today.

Making good memories for all of them.

“I’ve been told I have to read this list of rules before we can begin,” Dr. Abrams’s voice cut through his thoughts and Will returned his attention to the mound.

Abrams was peering down at a sheet in his hand and he sighed as he brought the mic back up to his mouth. “We’re here today to raise money for the Bedford Street Community Centre. Refreshments and t-shirts can be purchased from the canteen. All proceeds from there will be going to the fund and any additional donations are welcome. We thank you for your generosity.” He cleared his throat. “Now for the list. General reminder that this is an alcohol-free event and anyone who doesn’t respect that will be asked to leave.”

Considering some of the stories Will had heard over the years, that was probably for the best.

…unless that had always been the case and those stories happened while everyone was sober?

“Rule number one,” Abrams continued, his voice echoing across the field. “In accordance with the agreement made after the incident in 1976, each Grudge Match will only be seven innings long with a thirty minute break after the fifth inning as per the agreement of 1982.”

Abrams raised an eyebrow at that before continuing down the list. “Rule number two, no mascots. That’s all it says. Okay. Rule number three, in accordance with the agreement made after the incident in 1983, any physical altercations will result in an immediate eviction from the game. If a team loses enough players that they cannot fulfill their roster—” Abrams blinked at the page, muttering ‘what is wrong with you people’ just loudly enough for the microphone to pick up. “—that is considered an automatic forfeit.”

“Don’t forget rule number four!” Mouch called out only to have Chris shove at his shoulder.

“Ah, yes,” Abrams said. “Finally, rule number four, in accordance with the agreement made after the incident in 1998, no food trucks are allowed on or around the field for the duration of the game. Good lord, I’m afraid to ask why.” He folded up the page and stuffed it into his back pocket. “If both captains will come forward, we’ll do the coin toss.”

Trudy stepped out of her team line-up and joined Chris and Abrams on the mound. She smirked over at Chris. “I believe as the winning team from last year, we get to call it,” she said. “Heads.”

Chris grumbled, jerking a nod at Abrams who flipped the coin in the air.

“Heads it is.”

“You know, I’m feeling generous today,” Trudy said. “We’ll take first at bat. Set the standard.”

“How nice of you,” Chris said, baring his teeth at her in a mockery of a smile before he strode back to his team.

“Love you, honey!” Mouch called out as Trudy walked back to her own side of the diamond.

She waved him off with a hand behind her head. “Not your honey today, boo.”

Will fell into Connor’s side, giggling as Mouch held a hand to his heart and declared Trudy an ‘incredible woman.’

“Posts, everyone!” Bex popped up out of the crowd with Emery on her heels. “First wave will be coming for snacks before the game starts so let’s be ready.”

“I thought the game was starting now?” Connor asked as they made their way over to the canteen.

“Soon,” Bex said. “Chris still has to give his pep talk though and they have to agree on their line-ups so it’ll be another few minutes at least.”

Familiar barking filled the air and Will was almost knocked down by a fluff ball cannon. “Hey, boy!” Will crouched down to give Kol a scratch. “Glad you could make it.”

“Sorry, Uncle Will!” Annabelle came running up with her brothers behind her and Cindy bringing up the rear. “He got away before I could put the leash on.”

“He’s sneaky like that sometimes,” Will said, taking the leash from her with a smile and clipping it onto Kol’s collar. “Did you guys have a fun sleepover?”

“The best!” Annabelle exclaimed, throwing her little arms around Kol. She and Max started talking all at once telling him everything they did which seemed to centre mostly on trying to teach Kol a fantastically large number of new tricks.

“I hope he wasn’t too much trouble,” Will said to Cindy who was looking more than a little tuckered out.

“Oh, not at all,” she said with a tired smile. “He was the most well-behaved creature in the whole house. He even helped me herd everyone to bed.”

“We didn’t teach him that trick,” Annabelle grumbled.

“He’s pretty smart that way,” Will laughed. “Do you think you could do me a favour and keep looking after him during the game?”

Even the newly-teenaged Lee Henry broke into a grin at that suggestion.

“We’ll take the best care of him, Uncle Will,” Annabelle promised. “You’ll see!”

“I know you will. Now who wants some popcorn? Donna makes her own Chicago mix and it is delicious.” He smiled at the five hands that went up in the air and went behind the canteen table to get the Herrmann crew set up with their snacks.

***

Emery

Emery bit back a laugh at the sight of Connor standing stock still as he watched Will interact with the Herrmann kids. Dude was the human embodiment of heart-eyes.

“Man, it’s good we have so many medical professionals here today,” she said, snapping him out of his daze. He raised his eyebrows in question.

“I don’t know who’s going to pass out first; you or Bex.” She jerked a nod at said friend who was currently pretending not to be watching Mouse as he did some kind of stretch-lunge-maneuver.

“Shut up,” Connor laughed even as his cheeks went pink. “I cannot be expected to be…normal around that.” He pointed over at Will who was crouched down beside Annabelle again, handing her a small container of popcorn and nodding seriously while she rambled animatedly at him.

“Yeah, no, that’s fair,” Emery agreed. “Good luck with that.” She patted his shoulder and went to get the grill fired up.

***

Chris

He paced in front of his team, meeting them in the eye, one by one.

“Last year was hard,” Chris began. “Losing always is and you lot took it on the chin like the champions you are.” “I don’t know about that,” Otis piped up. “Capp cried.”

“I literally got elbowed in the face,” Capp complained. “I got a black eye!”

“Did things go the way we wanted?” Chris said louder, ignoring them. “No. But the important thing is we didn’t let it keep us down. Now we’re another year smarter and another year stronger. We’re got fresh talent—” He pointed over at Sylvie who beamed at him and waved her fists in a little cheer. “—and we’ve got the most important thing of all…”

“Heart,” Mouch said with a confident nod.

“Mouch!” Chris threw his hands up. “You’re wreckin’ my dramatic pause.”

“Sorry! Sorry,” Mouch said, taking a step back. “Was just feeling the moment.”

“That’s not what I was gonna say anyway,” Chris continued. “I mean, yeah, we got heart. Truckloads of it. But more importantly, we got spite.” He pointed a sharp finger across the diamond at the CPD team. “Those chuckleheads wiped the floor with us last year and wouldn’t shut up about it for months. So today, I want you to remember that feeling. That utter humiliation. And I want you to focus it and use that fire to kick some ass!”

“And have a good time while we’re at it, right Herrmann?” Shay called out, a shit-eating grin stretched across her face. “Cause you know, it’s all in good fun?”

Chris blew a raspberry at her. “We’ll have fun rubbing our victory in their faces,” he said. “Now huddle up, we gotta talk line-up.”

***

Hailey

Hailey watched as Herrmann paced back and forth in front of the CFD team, waving his arms as he gave an impassioned speech. She’d been warned that the Grudge Match game could be a little…weird and so far, it was living up to its reputation.

“Okay, team,” Platt said, tapping a pen against her clipboard. “Gather round and we’ll go over the line up.”

“What?” Ruzek asked. “We don’t get a speech?”

Platt leveled a look at him with a sigh. “Alright, here it goes,” she said. “Inspiring words. Inspiring words. Heartfelt moment. Dramatic pause. Rallying cry.” She eyed them all over her clipboard. “Happy?”

Al sniffed. “That was beautiful.”

“Great. Moving on, here’s the line-up.” Platt called out their batting order and playing positions. Their team was made up mostly of the Intelligence crew this year: aside from Hailey, there was Halstead, Mouse, Burgess, Ruzek, Atwater, and Olinsky. Two patrol officers they worked with frequently were joining them as well, Tay and Kent.

Voight was there too, but as ‘co-coach’ which seemed to mean sitting back and chuckling to himself as Platt gave out orders.

Hailey pulled her ponytail through her cap and settled it on her head. As far as team-building exercises went, it could be worse.

“Hey,” Ruzek said, settling down on their dugout bench. “Who do you think the pick is this year?”

“Pick?” Hailey asked.

“Bex picks someone from each team to cheer for every year while heckling the shit out of everyone else,” Ruzek explained. He scrunched up his face. “Last year’s was Olinsky.”

“Still got sour grapes over that, I see,” Olinsky shot back. He batted his eyes at Ruzek. “Some of us are just favourites material.”

“She doesn’t pick you?” Hailey nodded at Halstead who snorted at her question.

“Cheering for her brothers is ‘boring’,” Jay said, using his free hand for quotation marks as he dug into Mouse’s popcorn bag with the other.

…there was popcorn?

Mouse caught her look and offered the bag in her direction. She dug in with a grin.

***

Mouse  

Mouse gave up his snack to Jay and Hailey since they’d eaten half of it already. He’d spotted his group walking toward the stands and wanted to say hi before the game began anyway.

He hurried over to intercept them before they grabbed seats. “Hey. Hi,” he said. “You guys made it.”

“Yeah, we did!” Lucy said before pulling him in for a hug. “Look at you in your little baseball outfit. You look so cute!”

“Okay, yeah, get it out now,” he said, rolling his eyes as he accepted hugs from the others as well.

“Looking good, slugger,” Ed said, giving him a light punch in the shoulder. “Ready for—”

“Enough with the chit chat.” Ada elbowed Ed out of the way. “Time for the important questions of which there is only one. Where’s Bex?”

Frank stood up on his tiptoes looking out over the crowd. "She's here already, right?"

“Hey, uh, you guys are gonna be cool, right?” Mouse lifted his hat to run a hand through his hair. “You’re not gonna be weird or interrogate her or—”

“Mouse,” Chuck stepped in, putting a light hand at Mouse’s elbow, grounding him. “We’ll be on our best behaviour,” he said. “I promise. But also, if you’ve changed your mind, we can leave right now.” He ignored Ada’s little noise of protest behind them. “It’s your call.”

He still felt nervous about it all; this was pretty far outside what they normally did. But when Mouse did a gut check, there were two things he knew to be true. One, he trusted this group. With…everything. And everything for him would always include Bex.

Which brought him the second thing; he did actually want them to get to know each other. At least a little bit. It was scary as hell, but it still felt right.

“I see her,” Ada whispered. “She’s at the canteen.”

“Oooh, her outfit’s even cuter,” Lucy whispered back.

“I will drag them back to the van if I have to,” Chuck said to him, deadly serious.

“No, uh, no it’s okay,” Mouse said. He was working on being braver when it came to good things. “Just, uh…be nice?”

“You got it.” Chuck grinned at him, clapping him on the back. “Now, go get ‘em, champ.”

***

Lexi

Lexi was running late and it was to something she hadn’t even wanted to go to which made things worse. But her dad had asked her to come and he’d really been trying lately which made her want to try…

And she’d found herself agreeing to help out at the Grudge Match which she hadn’t been to since she was, god, eight? Maybe?

Her dad said she’d be helping out at the canteen though with Detective Halstead’s sister and her friends so maybe it wouldn’t be horrible.

At least the uniform was funny.

Lexi sighed as she hurried across the parking lot. She actually hated being late. She’d been on time until Jason threw a fit when he realized she was heading out for the day and wouldn’t be home doing nothing with him like he assumed she would be.

The freakouts had been happening more often than not lately. She loved him, but the clingy possessiveness was starting to wear.

“Lexi!” her dad called out, waving at her from around the side of the dugout. He must have been keeping an eye out for her. She waved back at him. “We’re starting, but I’ll come see you soon!”

She shot him a thumb’s up and headed over to the canteen. “Hi,” she said to the two girls working the table, a blonde and a brunette. “I’m Al’s daughter Lexi. Where do you want me?”

“Hi, Al’s daughter Lexi,” the brunette said, sticking her hand out to shake. “I’m Bex. Welcome to the most fun spot in the whole of Grudge Match day. Let me introduce you to everyone and show you the ropes.” Bex paused, narrowing her eyes at her. “How are your heckling skills?”

“I’m an Olinsky,” Lexi said and a slow smile spread across Bex’s face.

“Yeah, you’re gonna fit in, no problem.”

***

Jay

Jay walked up to the plate. First at bat. No pressure.

The rest of his team began cheering as he got into place and took a few practice swings, staring down Casey out on the mound.

“Oooooh, first at bat,” Bex drawled from somewhere behind him. “Setting the tone for the whole game. Gotta show everybody how it’s done.”

He ignored her, staying focused as Casey wound up—threw out the pitch—

Jay swung and—

“Strike one,” Dr. Abrams called out.

“Come on, Jay,” Bex said. “My grandma can swing faster than that.”

“Why, Rebecca,” Emery’s voice joined her. “Aren’t both of your grandmothers…deceased?”

“Yes, Emery,” she said. Jay shot a glare back at her, catching Bex’s solemn nod. “And yet they both would have knocked that out of the park.”

Dawson snorted from her crouched position as catcher.

“Yeah, yeah,” Jay muttered. “Just wait until you get up here.”

“At least I have a chance of being the pick this year,” she said, shooting a few hand signals at Casey who nodded.

Jay shook it off, rolling his shoulders as he prepared for the next pitch. A fastball. He knew it was a good swing even before the crack of the bat echoed through the air.

The ball went flying and Jay dropped the bat, booking it for first base. There was a blur out in the field that caught the corner of his as he ran, but he ignored it, focused on his goal.

A sudden cheer went up along with shouts from his team.

“Out! He’s out!” Cruz yelled from centre field and Jay groaned. Seriously?

“Kol caught the ball!” Shay laughed.

…wait, what? Jay’s head snapped up and he peered out at the field. Kol was zooming around with the ball in his mouth, ducking all attempts from Cruz, Shay, and Chief Boden to catch him.

“That doesn’t count!” Jay hollered back at Dr. Abrams. “Right?” He was a dog! There was no way it counted. “Right??”

***

Dr. Sam Abrams, head umpire

He called time and motioned for the other three umpires to come together for a meeting.

“The play can’t count. Dog’s not on the roster,” Dr. Choi said immediately. “Why are we even discussing this?”

"If I may offer a counter point,” Nurse Sexton raised her hand. “Allowing it would be hilarious.”

Hm. Objectively speaking, that was true. Very much so. Dr. Choi was gearing up to argue again so Sam stepped in. “That is a valid point,” he said, ignoring Dr. Choi’s look to focus on the more pressing issue. “The question is, how do we make it fair?”

Keeping things fair was unquestionably one of the chief duties of an umpire.

“I have an idea,” Nurse Lockwood said and the three of them turned to hear her out.

***

Bex

The umps ended their huddle and Maggie, Ethan, and April went back to their bases while Dr. Abrams turned to address the crowd. “The play stands,” he said, voice ringing out loud and clear across the diamond. “Halstead is out.”

Jay and the rest of the CPD team started protesting instantly. “He’s a frickin’ dog,” Jay yelled. “He’s not on the team.”

“Thank you for bringing that up, Detective Halstead,” Dr. Abrams said mildly. “We have discussed the issue and it’s been decided that Kol the dog may play outfield for both teams for the remainder of the game.” He strode back toward home plate as everyone took that bit of information in.

“Yay, Kol!” Annabelle started cheering. “MVP!” The rest of the Herrmann kids joined in and soon the whole crowd was cheering for Kol. Jay threw his hands up in defeat.

Bex was vibrating with delight. This was the best thing to happen at any Grudge Match ever.

Ever.

She curled her fingers into the fence, leaning into it when Dr. Abrams came back to his spot behind Gabi. “Dr. Abrams?” she called out.

He looked over at her, one eyebrow raised in question.

“You are my hero and I love you,” Bex said, putting every ounce of earnestness that she had into her words.

A smile tugged at the edge of his mouth as Gabi nearly fell over laughing. “Just doing my job,” he said before putting his mask back in place. “Let’s play ball!”

Bex patted at her heart as she walked back to the canteen. Glorious. She stopped short as another incredible thought hit her.

Precedent. Beautiful, beautiful precedent.

“We’re totally making Kol a uniform for next year!” she yelled at her gang as she rejoined them.

***

Mouse

Ruzek and Burgess struck out, but Hailey made it onto first. Not the best start to their inning and Jay was still pouting over Kol catching his flyout hit. Now it was Mouse’s turn at bat.

He picked out a bat, taking a few practice swings before stepping up to the plate. Before he could get into position—

“Go, Mouse!” a chorus of voices cheered. He whipped around to see Bex, Emery, Connor, and Will standing at the backstop fence with matching grins. Bex caught his eye and shrugged, her smile going soft.

“You got this,” she yelled.

“Eye on the ball!” Emery hollered.

“You can do it!” Will and Connor chimed in.

“Aw.” Dawson tilted her head up to squint at him. “You’re the CPD pick this year,” she said. “That’s cute.”

Mouse could feel the blush heating up his cheeks, but he shot a little smile back at Bex before squaring up to the plate. He swung hard at the first pitch, but Casey had a wily curve ball and he missed.

“Strike one!”

“Shake it off,” Will yelled out.

“Next one’s yours!” Bex cheered. “I can feel it!”

Emery and Connor added in their cheers and soon he could hear the voices of his group also cheering him on. The second pitch came barreling toward him and—

“Strike two!”

Bex and her crew kept clapping and cheering, shouting encouragement. His group had gotten to their feet and were…holding up signs? With his name?

“Mouse.”

He looked back at the fence where Bex was watching him steadily.

“Deep breath,” she said. “We’ll still be cheering even if you strike out. Just…have fun.”

Mouse took the deep breath. He nodded at Casey, ready for the next pitch. Casey wound up and let it fly. Mouse swung and—

Crack!

He opened his eyes to see the ball soaring out over the field.

“Mouse!” Bex yelled, laughing. “Run!”

Oh, right.

He took off, running as fast as he could toward first. Cruz had scooped up the ball and was throwing it to Kidd. Mouse slid into the base just as she caught it.

“Safe!” Maggie called out.

Kidd tossed the ball back to Casey and then reached down to help him up. “Nice moves, Mouse,” she said, snapping her gum with a grin.

“Thanks,” he said, ducking his head as he peeked back at home where Al was coming up to bat and Bex and her crew were already roasting him.

Mouse smiled to himself.

He was the pick.

Click here to read 500 Miles on ao3:

Part two of the Grudge Match will be coming soon! The chapter was just getting crazy long so I figured that was a good spot to divide it at. :D

And here is the tag list (let me know if you wish to be added or removed):

@sorry-i-spaced, @thegirlwhowishedeveryonelived, @ivyalmighty, @thewannabewriter, @lexhalstead3, @multifandomgrl08, @sensitivemallysix, @thebewingedjewelcat, @emme-looou,

[kindredhearts13]

This is probably going to be an unpopular opinion, or perhaps a secretly popular one, who knows. And before I get more hate for pointing out plot holes or choices in character development (or lack there of) that I don’t agree with- please note that this is NOT an anti-any ship post.

Now, the point: I am having a major issue feeling connected to Chicago PD, which makes it harder for me to want to watch a show that I have loved and watched grow. It feels stilted right now, like I can fully guess the direction of the season without even watching it. Just go based off of episode blurbs and people’s reactions. And I think that, outside of the obvious, there are particular reasons for my hesitation.

The first is Jay and Hailey. No, not necessarily them being a couple but the fact that I cannot bring myself to be as invested as I would like to be because they took the plot-line (and aspects of the storyline) originally intended for Erin and just recycled it. Yes, there are key differences but to be clear: a repeated or recycled storyline does NOT have to be identical to the original one. It just needs to have enough similarities. Jesse and Tracy are such strong actors, and I feel like they aren’t being given the depth of storytelling that they deserve. Why won’t they let Jay find love outside of the department? Or Hailey for that matter? (And I don’t mean the fling with Camilla or briefly dating Gabby.) Let them grow and find balance to a life that is repeatedly shown to be all too consuming? Why not explore that growth and then use that to bring them together? Why reuse a plot that was clearly intended for one character rather than create something unique and purposefully designed for a new dynamic introduced on the show?

Hailey’s character came on the show with the strong conviction that she didn’t date her partners, even being supported by Trudy in that; but we never got to see her growth outside of a very specific lens that relies on her being the love interest of two men on the show. And they were both men that she works with. And the conflict of her hard line drawn when she first came on the show was barely dealt with.

Hailey being held accountable now for a situation with Voight, despite Tracy doing such a brilliant job, even feels stilted because she spent all of her past seasons being held accountable for nothing. Even in her short-lived friendship with Rojas, so little was explored so little chance for growth outside of a romantic relationship with Ruzek and Jay was given. Basically every single major piece of information we have learned about Hailey and her backstory have come from her romantic linking to another character. And that is so disheartening because she was introduced one way with such strength and depth, but is being made into someone that essentially doesn’t exist without a love interest to help push her story along. And, frankly, as one of two female leads on the show (one lead if you don’t count Kim as a lead) she deserves better.

The next issue I have is Atwater. I think everyone knows that LaRoyce is consistently under-utilized on the show. They had such a beautiful opportunity with all that has happened in the past few years and even with the storyline they introduced about him vs the blue wall. And his conflict with Voight over the latter’s style of policing, completely reduced and to a minor conflict rather than one majorly driving the story and overarching conflict for the entire team. But they refuse to go any deeper into these issues with him. And while his conversations and conflicts with Ruzek are well done and necessary- we’re missing that vital piece with the rest of the cast. Atwater is somehow the character with the most and least growth on the show. He went from being the guy in Intelligence that Al felt didn’t deserve the spot as much as Kim, to being a vital part of the team and so often the soul of the show (more of a testament to LaRoyce). Al’s death wasn’t even used as a major growth moment for him, such as questioning if he finally proved himself or not. Yet they do nothing with him, not at the level they do for all of the other white characters on the show. Even the issues with his siblings aren’t given the growth and attention that they should be, despite them being major parts of his character’s storyline and development.

I remember reading that Miranda Rae Mayo wanted Atwater and Kidd (Fire) to get together for a while before Stellaride became an official thing, but it was a no go. And I keep thinking of the agency that would’ve given him- to be with someone who is so multi-faceted and that would have forced the writers to match her in their development. I wish that they would do more of this development outside of a relationship, but if that is the way to do it- this would have been a great opportunity.

I have already spoken about the clear racism and lack of representation within the fandom, often brewed from what is presented on screen. But it just astounds me that a show, which takes place in a city with a large minority population, and features such a well conceived character of color has yet to find its footing for any of their characters of color. And whenever they show significant growth, they’re either killed off or arrested.

And this leads me to my last issue that will be addressed in this post, actually going back to what was said about Hailey earlier. Hailey’s treatment of black characters on the show is NEVER discussed. She does something that causes damage or death to a black character and it is used as a development chip into a step of her romantic relationship rather than a significant moment of reckoning.

Hailey mentally and emotionally manipulated a young, innocent black man that ultimately took his own life. And we were meant to feel sorry for her, see that as a juicy moment of romantic struggle, and forget about it rather than mourn the loss of that young man. And it was never addressed. Hailey caused the killing of yes, an anti-hero in the series, but a significant black face to the minorities of Chicago that greatly impacted the community. She had a conversation with Voight, a slight moment with Jay, and then nothing. The impact that death had on the community that we spent a whole season with was never even addressed. She made an insensitive comment to Atwater, and spoke to Jay about it but never was given any further attention and a need to call out and address her actions was never expressed. Instead, we see her “punished” for her actions by getting to work with the FBI and offered a job, then getting with her partner.

But, she kills a white man with Voight and all hell breaks loose. (Make it make sense.)

As a black woman, trying to digest this show has become more and more of a struggle, as much as I love it. And it infuriates me to the point of tears that people will so fiercely protect a romantic shipping more than they will characters of color and how they are literally treated as disposable and second thoughts. I adore this show, but I can feel so abandoned and unrepresented by it. A show that focuses in on policing has a responsibility to do better and I sincerely hope that it starts to.

We need more from the show for the women on the show. We need more from the show for the characters of color. And we most definitely need more from the show for the level of accountability and what is viewed as something worthy of being held accountable for.

I love this show and I have such love for these characters, but I can’t just silently watch anymore. And before I get messages asking me to “not cross tag shows” or “not post this in a ship tag.” Understand that critiques can be made for One Chicago as a whole and that if you’re more concerned about a tag than what is being communicated about people of color and of women on television, it is time to reassess.

[midnightsconspiracy]

Loved Up

Loved Up - @midnightsconspiracy

Summary: Al loves the fact he’s played matchmaker to yours and Hank’s relationship

Warnings: None

Word Count: 991

Requested: Yes!!

'I’m gonna need something super fluffy to recover from grief-stricken. Hank x reader, of course. ♥️ And here’s a prompt: “I think (she/he/they/I) rubbed off on you.” Thanks!'

A/N: I feel like the start could be a Hank x Alvin fic ;)

Masterlist

The two oldest members of intelligence had known each other for a long time. The friendship dated back to his first day on the job where he had been partnered with the man, instantly hitting it off, knowing at that moment they would have a lifelong friendship. Along the way he was introduced to Trudy as well, the duo turning into an unstoppable trio. His days were filled with action and adventure, the two of them taking down crook after crook, locking them up for a job well down. And their nights, well they were filled with drinking and laughing, the friendship so tight that they spend every second together. They were partners in crime essentially, although they were the ones fighting crime, everyone always commenting on the high success rates they attained. Things slightly differed when both men initially found love, and so instead spent their evening without each other. However, that changed nothing between them, only making the bond stronger when they did see one another at work. The nature of the police force meant they were bounced around a lot from unit to unit, district to district, but each new task saw them sticking together, the higher officers reluctant to separate them. They went through a lot together, marriage, the birth of their children, and death. When both Camille and Justin had died, Alvin was there, patiently waiting and helping his friend go through the struggles of losing a loved one. Likewise, Hank was there for him when Lexi had passed, allowing him to grieve accordingly, supporting him and Meredith however they needed. He had also been the first person Hank had recruited after he took over intelligence, knowing Olinsky would stay loyal and support no matter what.

One thing in particular that he advocated for was Hank's love life, encouraging his mate whenever there were any little advancements in it. That was especially true when it came to you. Being the newest member of the unit was always going to be hard, especially since they were such a group of tight-knit people. But Al being as paternal as he was, took you under his wing, showing you the in and outs of how the unit ran. And as your relationship with Hank progressed, so did the man's smugness, mainly from the fact he had played matchmaker in the first place.

It was weird in the beginning, dating your sergeant, something that was so frowned upon, not just by the unit's rules but also from the rest of the district. But Al had encouraged you despite all the hate, telling you that that you should do whatever felt right. You'd taken that advice to heart, allowing yourself to love Hank as if no one else mattered.

So that's what you had done, entered a fully-fledged relationship, neither of you regretting a thing. Eight months had flown by, in your own little bubble of love, spending whatever time you had together. You tried to keep the affection in private, but sometimes you just needed to be near him. So when most of the team were out on a lead, you wandered into his office, meeting him in the middle, before wrapping your arms around his neck. All you wanted was to feel his warmth and comforting voice to soothe your emotions.

"I'm soooo tired," you whined, burying your head into the crook of his neck, wanting the workday to just end.

"I know baby, only a couple more hours till you get off," he reassured squeezing your waist tightly.

"I missed you as well." His eye line had been everywhere but you that day, and you wanted him to finally see you and give any sort of attention.

"You missed me huh? But you can see me from your desk" Teasing you, he pinched your sides, watching you squirm and laugh at the action.

"It's not the same as being with you though," you pouted, looking up into his eyes.

"Sweetheart," he chuckled, knowing he was so whipped for you.

"I promise we'll do something after work, ok?" He asked, equally wanting to spend time together.

"Ok, I love you!" Pecking him on the lips, you skipped out of his office, not waiting to hear his response, knowing exactly what his answer would be.

One of Hank's C.I's had provided him with some vital information, leading him and Al to go out to find out more. Driving to the destination would take half an hour, allowing the men to catch up for the first time in a couple of weeks. Al had so much he wanted to say to his closest friend having spent the entire time watching your conversation from the safety of his desk. Matchmaker Al was coming out again, wanting to know every single detail of the relationship. You would think women love to gossip, but these too were way worst! He had set them up and he would see it through to the end, knowing they were endgame.

"So, how are things going with Y/N?" He questioned, despite already knowing the answer.

"Good, I'm head over heels Al, I really am," Hank replied a love up look in his eyes as he thought back about you.

"That's great to hear, but dude you are so whipped" Chuckling to himself, Al knew it was true, despite what his best friend said.

"Fuck off, im not like that, I just love her a lot," Hank would deny it to the end of the earth out loud, but inside he knew what his friend was saying was true. Not that it was a bad thing at all, especially in your mind.

"You've gone soft my friend, I think she's rubbed off on you." Pulling up to the house, Al had to have one last dig, before the men parted to put on their games faces.

"If you say so," Hank smirked, always having to have the last word.

----------

Taglist: @mileika @redpoodlern @ohitshanksgirlxo @chazubagi @scarletsoldierrr @cindydoll2 @anotherfan07 @one-sweet-gubler

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[heylookafanfic]

A Dish Served Cold: Chapter 1

Pairing: Jay Halstead x Reader, Hank Voight x Reader

brief summary: Hank Voight was the most ruthless man in Chicago. It’s practically a death wish to hurt anyone he loves. When a former inmate is released from jail, they go for his weak spot to seek revenge.

Author’s Note: Hey howdy ho! This is my 1st story ever so please show it some love if you liked it and also, don’t forget to tell me if you want a part 2 because I’m itching to write a 2nd chapter but only if this chapter does well.

word count: 2,079 words

requested: Nope, original! (send in those requests!) warnings: kidnapping, being held at gunpoint, copping a feel, death of a loved one, finding out a loved one died

Jay Halstead had not only been your partner but your childhood best friend. You consider yourself lucky that the universe would keep the both of you close for so long. Not only did you get to work with your best friend but your boss, the notorious Hank Voight, was your godfather. Hank became your godfather before you were born.

*Flashback*

Your father was his partner and best friend and when news got around the CPD that Officer Y/L/N and his wife were expecting, Hank was the first one to know and consistently check up on your mom when your dad was working overnights. While they were planning things for your birth, your parents knew that if anything were to happen to them, Hank would go to the ends of the universe to keep you safe. It was a no-brainer to make him your godfather.

One day, they invited him over for dinner to ask him. He nearly choked on his wine when they did. That was possibly one of the best moments of his life, especially knowing that he’d have a kid in his life, although it wasn’t his biological child. When you were born, he couldn’t believe his eyes at how precious you were. From that moment, his mission in life was to ensure that even the smallest of threats would never even find out about you. He chaperoned every school field trip, cheered you on through your sports phase, attended every birthday party, dance recital, and school function. Jay was intimidated by him because although you two were best friends, your uncle made sure it stayed that way by keeping him in check.

Flash forward to your 8th grade year, you had the perfect life. Perfect grades, a tight knit family that supports you through everything, and an amazing friendship in Jay. What could be better than that? The evening you left for soccer tryouts was an evening you’ll never forget. In the middle of doing drills, a CPD vehicle rolls up to the parking lot of your school’s field. A man hops out of the driver's seat and talks to the coach.

“Y/N! Come here kiddo”

You jogged to the two men

“This is Officer Olynski with the Chicago Police Department. You need to go with him, okay?”

“Why? My mom is picking me up at 7:30” you asked

“Hey Y/N, I’m a friend of your dad and your uncle Hank. Your uncle wanted me to pick you up early. Is that cool with you?” Officer Olynski asked

“Um, okay I guess?” you responded

You grabbed your gear bag and hopped in the back seat.

The ride to your house was quiet other than Al’s walkie-talkie.

“What’s going on?” you asked

“Your uncle will tell you all about it when we get to your house” he said

Only a block away from your home, you could hear police sirens wailing. It wasn’t just one, it sounded like multiple. Butterflies started settling in your stomach. As Olynski pulled up to your house, you could see police tape surrounding your yard and multiple police cars parked in the front.

“What’s going on?” you asked with a shaky breath

Hank comes out of the front door and walks to the car. Opening the back door, he slides in the back with you.

“Uncle Hank, what’s going on? What happened?” you asked

He had looked like he just cried. You had never seen him like this.

“What happened?!” you shouted

He and Al gave each other sad glances.

“Kiddo, I’m so sorry”

“What do you mean?”

The car went quiet

“Your mom and dad died” he said

Everything went silent. Nothing made sense. This had to be one giant prank, right? The world seemed to slow down, time stopped and you felt lightheaded.

“Y/N?” Al asked

You sat there and still couldn’t process the news. Your uncle hugged you and sat in the back with you for what seemed like forever. The two of you cried together but Hank knew he had to be strong for you. From that moment, his duties of godfather began and he didn’t miss a beat hopping into action.

*Present Day*

You had a great job with an even better crew to work with especially because Jay was your partner. He had always made it a thing to walk you home after any event. 8th grade formal? High school homecoming? Soccer practice? Even at your parents’ funeral, he was there for you through all of it. Ever since childhood, making sure you got home safely was his number one priority.

It had been a long day, considering you just finished a 12 hour shift. Chasing after the bad guys,

You were in the locker room, packing up before clocking out. As you're stuffing your uniform in your duffle bag, a voice calls out.

"Y/N? You in here?"

"Yep, right here"

Jay appeared from behind the row of lockers.

"Hey, you ready? I wanted to stop by Molly's real quick before we head home. That okay with you?"

"Yeah, I'll be out in a sec" you said

He shot you a smile and left to clock out.

You grab your duffle bag, close and lock your locker and leave.

"See ya Trudy!" you said walking past the front desk

"Have a good night kiddo! Don't forget, I need those reports by Tuesday" she said

"Noted!"

Jay was in the front of the precinct waiting for you as usual.

"It's about time!" he joked

The two of you were on the way to Molly's. Tonight was fundraiser night and neither you nor Jay were ones to socialize but everybody there is practically family so stopping by for a few minutes wouldn't hurt.

"Remember in 1st grade when you got mad and put glue in Chris Henson’s hair because he didn’t pick you for kickball?" you asked

"Of course! The kid had it coming" he chuckled

"Looking back on it, it’s funny how we got pissed off over stuff like that as kids”

"See, and this is another reason why I’m thinking about not having my own kids one day. The kids gonna get my mischievous gene and get in a fight, I’ll have to do the drive of shame to their school and then I’m gonna have to play bad cop”

"You really thought that deep into that situation? " you chuckled

"Oh - hey, I need to stop by Mike’s real quick and grab some cash"

"Good call, I forgot the bar is cash only tonight”

Stepping into Mike’s Convenience Store, you heard the bell above the door chime. The cashier gave you two a quick “Hello” and you head to the back to use the restroom while Jay used the ATM. 4 men walk in moments after and one stands behind him. Thinking that they were waiting to use the ATM, he didn’t think much of it. The machine dispensed his cash and he quickly puts it in his wallet. It was eerily quiet despite the broken store radio playing static.

One of the men walks over to the door and locks it. Jay was on high alert. “Shit” he thought to himself. Suddenly, another man, this one stockier than the others, pulls a gun from the back of his pants.

“Jay Halstead” the man said menacingly

He sighed and turned around

“This moment has been 4 years in the making, my friend.” the man said holding Jay at gunpoint

“Listen, I don’t want any problems” Jay said

“Shut up! I’m gonna talk and you’re gonna listen”

All he could think about was you. If you walk out of the bathroom, you’ll be in the wrong place at the wrong time and if anything were to happen to you, he could never forgive himself. He hoped that by some circumstance, the door would jam so you’d be safe.

“Do you remember me?” he asked

Jay shook his head

“You really don’t remember me, do you?” he asked again

Jay got a good look at the man’s face. It still didn’t ring a bell.

“Let me introduce myself then. Andrei Romero. You arrested me at the corner of Beacon and Oxford about 4 years ago. There was a warrant out for my arrest because I was tied to a double homicide involving one of your officers.”

That’s when it hit him. October 7th, 2015. The day his partner, Erik Steele, was killed on duty. How could he forget? That was the worst day of his life. He and Erik were dispatched to do a welfare check on a house when neighbors heard screaming. Erik knocked on the door but it was cracked open. Guns drawn, they carefully went in and announced themselves. Still no answer, Jay searched up stairs and Erik searched downstairs. Just as soon as Jay gave the all clear for upstairs, 3 gunshots were fired. He ran downstairs and saw Erik on the kitchen floor with a bullet hole in his neck and blood quickly painting the tiled floor red. There was nothing he could do for him but begin basic first aid, call for an ambulance and wait.

“Sounds familiar” Jay said gritting his teeth

“You were also there when Voight interrogated me. He told you to leave but what you don’t know is, after you left, Hank threatened me with jail time if I didn’t confess to who did it. He knew I was innocent. He got me sentenced to 4 years for a crime I didn’t commit. 4 years of my life...gone. My wife and kid? They wanted nothing to do with me and-”

You walked out of the bathroom and walked to the front of the store.

“Jay, how much did you withdr-” you spoke

Unknowingly, you walked right into your worst nightmare

“Look what we have here. Officer Y/L/N.” the man said

Your legs went numb and your feet got cold.

“This just gets even better! Don’t be shy, join us.”

You looked at Jay and he shot you a glance as to say “just do whatever he says”. Romero’s men quickly patted you down with one of them trying to cop a feel.

“You son of a-” Jay flinched

Romero shoved his gun back in his face.

“Have some decency fellas” Romero said slyly

You yanked your arm from one of his men and stood next to Jay

“Officer Y/L. Godkid of Mr. Hank Voight. Don’t you think it’s pretty risky being out this late? There’s a lot of people who love to use you to get to your godfather.” he said

“And why is that?” you asked gritting your teeth

“You don’t know what Voights been up to huh? He’s been hiding things from you, thinking you’ll never find out but karmas finally catching up to him and I’m sorry but this starts with you”

“She has nothing to do with this! Leave her out of it!” Jay shouted

He grabbed your hand, gripping it tight.

Romero’s men stepped forward as he shifted the gun towards you

“You can make this real easy or extremely hard Y/N. Either come with us or-”

He shot a bullet at the ATM

“-the next shot won’t be a warning” he continued

Jay looked at you with fear written on his face and shook his head. Although Hank is your godfather, Jay vowed to protect you too after your parents died and when Al paired you two as partners in your rookie year at CPD.

You looked at Jay and took a deep breath. Letting go of his hand was one of the hardest things you had to do. Hank had taught you enough basic self-defense to take care of yourself so, you knew you’d be fine. When Jay wouldn’t let go of his grip, you wiggled your hand out of his.

Romero’s men grabbed you and held you at gunpoint.

“Tell Voight we stopped by won’t you Jay?” Romero said with a wink

“Oh, and if you want to play ‘hero’? Don’t. You do, and they die” he continued

You didn’t get a chance to look at Jay before you were carried off into their van.

Mike’s Convenience Store was empty and so was Jay. His partner - no, best friend vanished before his eyes and he knew that statistically, the first 48 hours that a person is missing were critical and after 48 hours, their chances of being killed/ never being found doubled.

Y/N’s 48 hours started now.

Author’s Note: Thanks for reading!! This is my 1st story ever so please show it some love if you liked it and also, don’t forget to tell me if you want a part 2 because I’m itching to write a 2nd chapter but only if this chapter does well.

[couchpotatowatches]

🚨Chicago PD Asks🚨

(Source: @sylviesunshine) 1. Favorite moment of season 8?

Kim adopting Makayla/their scenes together, Burzek, Kevin standing up for what he knows is right. 2. Hailey Upton or Kim Burgess?

I like both! But I feel like I relate to Kim a little more. 3. Favorite episode in the entire series?

I really like 3x10 "Shouldn't Have Been Alone" because of the Burzek moments, 3x15 "What Do You Do" because it shows the beginning of Kim really becoming badass. Also, the most recent season finale (8x16) because everyone did such a great job! 4. Jay Halstead or Adam Ruzek?

I like both but I think Adam has the edge for me. 5. Funniest moment?

All of Platt's one-liners, the tasing certification, Kevin's jokes/sense of humor, and when the team was teasing Platt while celebrating her time of the force. ( 6x05 I believe?) 6. Will Mouse ever return from war?

I definitely hope so! 7. Trudy Platt or Hank Voight?

Trudy! Hank loves his unit and tries to do good by them, but he's too rough/harsh sometimes and goes off-book way too much. 8. What’s one friendship you wish we saw more of?

Jay & Kevin, Hailey & Kim, Jay & Kim. 9. Most hated character in the series?

Brian Kelton 10. Kevin Atwater or Erin Lindsay?

Kevin Atwater! 11. Which of Trudy Platt’s children do you think she loves most?

Kim & Kevin for sure. She's watched them grow from parol officers to Intelligence Officers. Definitely has the biggest soft spot for them, though she loves all of her children. 12. Most loved character?

Kim and Kevin 13. Least favorite plotline/storyline to happen?

Kim's relationship with Sean, Adam and Hailey's relationship, killing off Al 14. Best partnership duo?

Kevin and Kim! My favorite OG patrol pair/friendship from the show. Also, Jay and Hailey make great partners even before getting together. 15. Most underrated character?

Kevin! Kev needs more screentime and they need to give him a break. Give me happy storylines! 16. The moment that shocked you the most?

When Kevin and Kim found that little boy in the basement, Kim getting shot (both times), and Al & Nadia's deaths. 17. Antonio Dawson or Alvin Olinsky?

I like both for different reasons! Can't choose. 18. A character you wish we knew their backstory better?

I want to know more about Kim's previous job and her parents. Like what was life like before she became a police officer. Maybe see more of Hailey's family members and a little more about Jay other than what we know about his time fighting in the war. 19. Favorite relationship?

Kim and Adam! #Burzek. (Hailey & Jay are cute, too.) And even though it was short-lived and not really official I liked Kevin and Vanessa together.

20. What’s the moment that made you fall in love with the show?

The pilot episode! It intrigued me to check out the rest of the series. (I didn't start watching it when it first aired). I loved the dynamic between all of the characters and how they interacted with each other. Everyone knew everyone, at least to some degree. Plus storylines and plot twists keep you on the edge of your seat. 21. The character that deserves(d) better the most?

Kevin, Kim, Makayla, Hailey

22. Least favorite episode?

2x14 the episode where they introduce Bunny. I never really liked her as a character and it sucked what she put Erin through. 23. If you could bring back one character, dead or alive, who would it be?

Definitely Al and Nadia. Vanessa Rojas, too. 24. What’s something you don’t want to see happen in season 9?

I don't want to see Hailey getting in trouble for shooting Roy. The whole thing is so similar to the Bingham situation, I don't want Hailey to get burned by the whole thing. 25. What is the thing you want to see happen in season 9 the most?

The team being there for Kim in the hospital/during recovery, Burzek reunion, Makayla interacting more with the team, the team hanging out more like they did in the first seasons, and Kevin getting more screentime/happy plot lines (love interest, promotion, etc)

[kamryn1963]

So Long, London (Al & Trudy fanfic)

Summary: When his marriage with Meredith finally reaches it's end, Al goes to a place he knows he'll be welcomed without judgment.

Al had tried for years to keep his family together. Fight after fight with Meredith left him wanting to just leave. To get a divorce and his own place. He felt selfish everytime he thought that, he knew he had to be a man and stay for his family, stay for Lexi but he wondered how much he could try until he and Meredith had to admit this wasn’t working anymore.

They had both changed too much the last couple years. Had changed and grew apart too much for Al to think they could ever have a happy marriage again. Lexi was older now, seventeen, so he did think about leaving more and more. She was old enough to choose where she wanted to live and drive between places, so they wouldn’t have to figure out custody.

He had been looking at the pamphlet for the “Officer next door program” Trudy had given him. He knew that while the cut she got out of it was a bonus, it was also her way of looking out for him and for that Al appreciated the gesture more than Trudy would ever know.

Al had even started packing his stuff, but then he and Meredith talked. It was so nice and they fell into bed again and then Al was moving back into the house and the bedroom. He knew it was a bad idea, could hear Hank and Trudy telling him that in his head, but some part of him was too loyal to Meredith, to this family that he desperately wanted to be whole again.

And then Meredith was held hostage and shaken up and Al couldn’t leave. He couldn’t because it was his job that got her in danger and Meredith wanted him there so Al thought the least he could do was stay and take care of her.

But like most things in his life, it blew up and the familiar screaming fight started once again like clockwork.

“I’m done. I’m leaving, Meredith”. Al didn’t really understand what he said until Meredith’s shouting about how much he worked stopped and she looked at him.

“Alvin…” Meredith started and Alvin shook his head as he felt tears gather in his eyes and started packing his bag that had barely been unpacked.

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry but this, we can’t fix this Meredith. We're different people now than we were twenty years ago”. Alvin said as he finished packing his bag and headed towards the door. Before he left he embraced Meredith one last time.

They were both silent as she hugged him back and watched as he left. Al was thankful Lexi was with a friend for the weekend as he headed out to his car and began driving away. Only once he’d driven for ten minutes did he realize it was ten at night and he had nowhere to go.

A couple places came to mind but he was between two. Usually he’d head to Hank’s but knew Hank had a lot on his plate with Olive and Justin so Al headed to the next best place.

He grabbed his bag and knocked at the door realizing he’d forgotten his jacket as he started shivering violently hoping the door would be answered soon. A light flicked on inside and then footsteps and the door opened.

“What the hell…come in, Alvin”. Trudy sighed as she looked at her friend's appearance and the bag he was carrying.

“I’m sorry”. This was stupid, Al shouldn’t be burdening Trudy like this because of his fucked up life.

He should’ve stayed and tried to fix this instead of just giving up. Deep down Al knew he’d given his marriage the best he could and maybe it was better for both of them to move on.

“Alvin?” Al looked back up as Trudy rested a hand on his arm, her face worried and he realized he was now sitting on her couch.

“I left, I left Meredith”. Al stated the words making everything final.

He left and this was the end. There was no going back now and some part of Al felt relieved. That this never ending cycle of fighting and screaming and the silent treatment. would end and they could both start healing apart. Al hoped they could still be friends for Lexi’s sake but he knew he couldn’t be her husband anymore.

Trudy nodded, already having guessed that. “I’m proud of you for finally leaving”.

“I thought you liked Meredith?” Al asked as Trudy stood up to grab him a glass of water.

“Maybe at the beginning but I’d choose you and your happiness over her every time”. Trudy said truthfully as she returned sitting next to Al shoulder to shoulder.

Al was so grateful for Trudy. For the love his best friend showed him unconditionally even when Al didn’t deserve it. Even when he fucked up, when he hid injuries or illnesses or fell behind on his paperwork because everything was going wrong in his life and he couldn’t find it in him to focus even if knew he should.

Trudy was always there. Even if just silent support. She didn’t hound him for his overdo paperwork as much as everyone else and he had seen her paying Jay or Antonio to do it on more than one occasion. She reassured him he didn’t need to hide his pain and she and Hank were always there to share his burden, and he was allowed to rely on them because they were his friends and they loved him.

Sometimes Al even believed them. Right now with his marriage blowing up, he was more thankful than he ever had been for his friends.

“You're welcome to stay, Al. As long as you need to”. Trudy said a couple minutes later and Al looked up so incredibly thankful for her.

“I thought you weren’t looking for a roommate?” Al joked as he stood up and grabbed his bag, following Trudy up the stairs.

“Don’t push your luck, Olinsky”.

[andgry4]

Awww this is so sweet, I didn't know I needed it until I read it 💙🖤. I love Al and Trudy's friendship so much.

So Long, London (Al & Trudy fanfic)

Summary: When his marriage with Meredith finally reaches it's end, Al goes to a place he knows he'll be welcomed without judgment.

Al had tried for years to keep his family together. Fight after fight with Meredith left him wanting to just leave. To get a divorce and his own place. He felt selfish everytime he thought that, he knew he had to be a man and stay for his family, stay for Lexi but he wondered how much he could try until he and Meredith had to admit this wasn’t working anymore.

They had both changed too much the last couple years. Had changed and grew apart too much for Al to think they could ever have a happy marriage again. Lexi was older now, seventeen, so he did think about leaving more and more. She was old enough to choose where she wanted to live and drive between places, so they wouldn’t have to figure out custody.

He had been looking at the pamphlet for the “Officer next door program” Trudy had given him. He knew that while the cut she got out of it was a bonus, it was also her way of looking out for him and for that Al appreciated the gesture more than Trudy would ever know.

Al had even started packing his stuff, but then he and Meredith talked. It was so nice and they fell into bed again and then Al was moving back into the house and the bedroom. He knew it was a bad idea, could hear Hank and Trudy telling him that in his head, but some part of him was too loyal to Meredith, to this family that he desperately wanted to be whole again.

And then Meredith was held hostage and shaken up and Al couldn’t leave. He couldn’t because it was his job that got her in danger and Meredith wanted him there so Al thought the least he could do was stay and take care of her.

But like most things in his life, it blew up and the familiar screaming fight started once again like clockwork.

“I’m done. I’m leaving, Meredith”. Al didn’t really understand what he said until Meredith’s shouting about how much he worked stopped and she looked at him.

“Alvin…” Meredith started and Alvin shook his head as he felt tears gather in his eyes and started packing his bag that had barely been unpacked.

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry but this, we can’t fix this Meredith. We're different people now than we were twenty years ago”. Alvin said as he finished packing his bag and headed towards the door. Before he left he embraced Meredith one last time.

They were both silent as she hugged him back and watched as he left. Al was thankful Lexi was with a friend for the weekend as he headed out to his car and began driving away. Only once he’d driven for ten minutes did he realize it was ten at night and he had nowhere to go.

A couple places came to mind but he was between two. Usually he’d head to Hank’s but knew Hank had a lot on his plate with Olive and Justin and the baby so Al headed to the next best place.

He grabbed his bag and knocked at the door realizing he’d forgotten his jacket as he started shivering violently hoping the door would be answered soon. A light flicked on inside and then footsteps and the door opened.

“What the hell…come in, Alvin”. Trudy sighed as she looked at her friend's appearance and the bag he was carrying.

“I’m sorry”. This was stupid, Al shouldn’t be burdening Trudy like this because of his fucked up life.

He should’ve stayed and tried to fix this instead of just giving up. Deep down Al knew he’d given his marriage the best he could and maybe it was better for both of them to move on.

“Alvin?” Al looked back up as Trudy rested a hand on his arm, her face worried and he realized he was now sitting on her couch.

“I left, I left Meredith”. Al stated the words making everything final.

He left and this was the end. There was no going back now and some part of Al felt relieved. That this never ending cycle of fighting and screaming and the silent treatment. would end and they could both start healing apart. Al hoped they could still be friends for Lexi’s sake but he knew he couldn’t be her husband anymore.

Trudy nodded, already having guessed that. “I’m proud of you for finally leaving”.

“I thought you liked Meredith?” Al asked as Trudy stood up to grab him a glass of water.

“Maybe at the beginning but I’d choose you and your happiness over her every time”. Trudy said truthfully as she returned sitting next to Al shoulder to shoulder.

Al was so grateful for Trudy. For the love his best friend showed him unconditionally even when Al didn’t deserve it. Even when he fucked up, when he hid injuries or illnesses or fell behind on his paperwork because everything was going wrong in his life and he couldn’t find it in him to focus even if knew he should.

Trudy was always there. Even if just silent support. She didn’t hound him for his overdo paperwork as much as everyone else and he had seen her paying Jay or Antonio to do it on more than one occasion. She reassured him he didn’t need to hide his pain and she and Hank were always there to share his burden, and he was allowed to rely on them because they were his friends and they loved him.

Sometimes Al even believed them. Right now with his marriage blowing up, he was more thankful than he ever had been for his friends.

“You're welcome to stay, Al. As long as you need to”. Trudy said a couple minutes later and Al looked up so incredibly thankful for her.

“I thought you weren’t looking for a roommate?” Al joked as he stood up and grabbed his bag, following Trudy up the stairs.

“Don’t push your luck, Olinsky”.