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Chapter Text

She knew it made her sound strange to the other nurses on the tenth floor, but secretly Elizabeth always had a fondness for working in the ER. The tempo, the never knowing what exactly was going to come in. It reminded her of her days as a new nurse just trying to figure everything out. And while she would never trade being the Head Nurse for any reason other than Epiphany and Bobbie being with them again, sometimes Elizabeth just genuinely missed being with patients for her entire shift instead of dealing with paperwork, staffing and meetings.

So whenever she could, she would take a shift down in the ER just to challenge herself and keep herself on her toes. She hummed an absent minded tune under her breath as she finished up her notes from the broken leg she had just helped set behind curtain three. Glancing at her watch, she was amazed to see there was only thirty minutes left in her shift. Time always did fly in the ER. Taking out her phone, she was going to send a quick text to Aiden and Jake asking if they were going to be home for dinner when the new resident came around the corner.

“We’ve got the victim of a severe car wreck coming in. Reports on the scene don’t sound good. Is there a trauma room ready? And we should probably call for surgery and get them started prepping.”

“Trauma one is open.” Elizabeth put down the clipboard and grabbed a new pair of gloves from the box on the wall. She nodded at the young nurse she had been working with all day. “Nurse Keller call ahead to the OR. I’ll go with Dr. Michaels to meet the ambulance.”

“McQueary. Randolph.” Dr. Michaels yelled to two med students. “You’re with me.” A few of the other nurses started walking towards them as well. As if on queue, the familiar wail of the ambulance siren rang outside. Dr. Michaels and one of the interns ran to the doors to meet them. It was a flurry of activity as one of the EMTs pushed open the bay doors while the other held the resuscitation bag while giving the details of what happened.

“Nasty wreck. She got slammed into from behind and pushed in the intersection. T boned by the car going through it. Firefighters had to use the jaws of life to get her out. In and out of consciousness since we’re at the scene. Possible concussion and spinal injuries.”

Dr. Michaels nodded, taking in all the information. Elizabeth finally got close enough with her own resuscitation bag to hear him ask “Do we have a name?”

Looking down, Elizabeth gasped. She was bruised and bleeding but there was no doubt she recognized the patient. “Brook Lynn.”

“You know her?” Dr. Michaels asked.

“She’s Dr. Finn’s sister-in-law.” Elizabeth explained. She looked back at the EMT. “Her husband is Detective Chase with the PCPD. Do you know if he knows?” Taking a step back, she let Nurse Keller take over the bagging duties. If Chase didn’t know yet, it was better he get the news from a phone call from her than a dispatch call at the station.

The EMT nodded. “One of the patrol officers on scene recognized her. He made a call to the station. He’s on his way.”

“Good.” She should go and call Finn. He would want to be here for his brother. Once Chase got here, she’d find out if any of the Quartermaines were alerted.

“Nurse Webber, I'm still going to need you. Are you able to do this?”

“Absolutely.” She promised. “We aren’t related so it doesn’t violate hospital policy but I may be the best person to talk to her husband.”

For as much as he protested he wanted nothing to do with a life of performing, Chase had a sense of timing most performers would kill for. No sooner had Elizabeth spoken than he ran through the doors. “Elizabeth…Brook Lynn….is that….”

Nodding to the rest of the team as they continued to push Brook Lynn down the trauma room, Elizabeth summoned all her years of training and guided Chase over to the waiting area. “Sit.” She said pointing to a chair. “You’re not getting back there and you’ll just get in the way.”

Chase kept looking frantically over her head, trying to figure out which door his wife had disappeared behind. She didn’t blame him but the sooner he would just accept the fact he wasn’t getting any closer than this chair, the quicker she could go and get the answers he was wanting. “Chase the sooner you sit down the sooner I can tell you what’s going on.”

“Elizabeth….” He finally sat down with a frustrated sigh. Sympathetically she rubbed his arm. He looked up at her and she could see the fear in his eyes. God did she know that fear. “How bad is it?”

“She just got here but she’s been in and out of consciousness since the accident. They had to use the Jaws of Life to get her out so we’re not sure what all is injured. We’ve got the OR on notice if we need it, which I hope we don’t and we’re going to check everything. I’m going to have someone call your brother to come down here and keep you out of trouble. I’m going to be with her the entire time ok?”

Chase nodded shakily. She could see tears forming in his eyes and knew he was probably going to lose the battle he was waging with himself not to cry. Closing his eyes tightly, he let out a breath, opening and closing his mouth a few times as if he couldn’t remember how to speak. Finally he managed to make two words come out.

“Dr. Lee.”

Elizabeth looked at him in confusion. Why would he be talking about Kelly right now. Unless…..Her eyes widen in realization and she took in a sharp gasp of air. “Brook Lynn’s…”

“Pregnant.” Chase finished in a monotone. “We just found out. So you’ll want to call…”

“Dr. Lee.” Elizabeth nodded quickly, already turning to go update the team. “I promise Chase, we’re going to do everything we can.”

“You have to. I can’t lose her Elizabeth. I can’t lose them.”

“Then I need to get in there. I’ll have someone call your brother. Do you want me to tell him about…”

Chase shook his head. “No.”

“Then I won’t. Do the Quartermaines need to be called?”

“No. Dante was with me when I got the call. He was going to call Oliva.”

“Ok. Then I won’t be leaving you alone for too long. I’ll be back as soon as I know anything ok?”

Chase nodded, rubbing his palm against his eye. “Just…just take care of her.”

“I promise.”

Chapter Text

Kelly Lee sprinted into the trauma room, crashing into the swinging doors so hard they actually hit the walls. It was only due to the honed ability to work under the extreme circumstances Port Charles attracted that the only person who looked up at her entrance was Elizabeth. And she wasn’t even startled. Quickly turning to the sink in the corner of the room, she washed her hands and grabbed a pair of gloves. She was relieved someone had grabbed a fetal ultrasound and brought it into the room. “What do you have Michaels?”

“Broken bones in both legs. Contusions and lacerations to the face. Broken ribs. Possible ruptured spleen and crushed pelvis.” Dr. Michaels paused what he was doing just long enough to look over at her. “How far along?”

“Three weeks give or take. Found out during a routine exam.” Kelly shared a concerned look over at Elizabeth. Her friend took in a shaky breath as they both came to the same conclusion. The odds the baby had survived a crash like this at this stage of development? It wasn’t good. “Anything on the monitor?”

“Not that we’ve found.” Michaels shook his head. She could already see him mentally start to prepare to break at least this much of the news. Not that she was going to let him. Brook Lynn was her patient and while it never got easier, at least she had given this news before. More times than she liked to remember. “We need to get her up to the OR. It’s either her spleen or there’s internal bleeding and neither I want to take care of down here. Nurse Webber….”

“I’ll call up to the OR.” Elizabeth nodded, shifting quickly into professional mode.

“I’m going with her.” Kelly declared. There may not be much she could do to save this baby, but she was going to try at least. At the very least she could make sure it was still possible for Brook Lynn to have children in the future if she wanted.

“I’ll let them know. “ Elizabeth promised. “And what should I tell the family?”

“Tell them we’re doing everything we can.”

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Coming around the corner into the ER, Finn scanned the room looking for his brother. He had been in a consultation until just a few minutes ago when Portia finally tracked him down and gave him Elizabeth’s message. He had managed a quick phone call to his father on his way to the elevator only to get his voice mail. Letting out a sigh of relief, he found Chase sitting next to Tracy and Gregory. Ned, Lois and Olivia all sat huddled close by, glancing over at the doors to the patient area every few seconds.

Tracy spotted him first and patted Chase on the shoulder to get his attention. Blinking to focus his eyes, Finn didn’t take it personally when he saw the brief flash of disappointment in his brother’s eyes as he registered who was coming near him. If he was in his brother’s shoes he’d rather the doctor coming towards him was someone with the information he was probably dying to have. Namely that his wife was ok, insisting everything was ok and everyone was over-reacting.

“Bro.” Finn pulled Chase into a hug and it was only because of how well he knew his brother that he felt the tremor that ran through his body. If he was a betting man, he’d put money that the only reason Chase wasn’t trying to force his way in the patient area was sheer willpower and terror at what he might find there. “How are you holding up?”

“I’m…I’m…I’m ok.” The last time Chase’s voice sounded like that, Peter August had managed to kidnap Bailey. The only reason Chase had managed to get through that night was because Brook Lynn needed him to. Finn didn’t know when his brother was going to break but he was going to. One glance at his father and Tracy, and he knew they knew the same thing. “I just…I just need to know that she’s ok.”

“Of course she will.” Tracy declared crisply. “My granddaughter is a Quartermaine and this family survives everything.And with the amount of money this family has donated to this hospital over the years, whatever specialist she may need, she’s going to get. Finn can’t you go and find out what’s going on?”

“No can do. Brook Lynn’s family. Hospital policy.”

“Of all the times for this hospital to get concerned about things like family relationships. As if half of this town isn’t related to someone who works here. I mean honestly…”

“Mother.” Ned said sharply. “Can we save your tirade for when we get home? After we know Brook Lynn is fine?”

Throwing up both her hands in surrender, Tracy was about to sit back down when she pointed her finger at someone who was just over his shoulder. “Elizabeth. Finally, someone who can give us some answers.”

As the rest of the family gathered around him, Finn kept a firm grip on Chase’s shoulder. If nothing else, maybe he could keep his brother upright. Nodding at everyone assembled, Elizabeth took a deep breath before looking Chase in his eyes. “She’s sustained multiple injuries. We still don’t know the full extent.”

“What do you know?” Tracy demanded. Gregory shook his head in her direction while Lois and Olivia waved her comment off.

“We do know her spleen had burst and there’s internal bleeding. We’re taking her up to the OR right now for surgery.”

“You can live without a spleen.” Finn said quickly.

Chase nodded quickly, blinking quickly probably to keep tears from falling. “Is she…is she…”

Elizabeth reached out and squeezed his hand. “So far she’s fighting. And she hasn’t gotten worse since she got here. That’s a good thing. I’m going to go up with her and be in the OR with her. The entire time. She’s not going to be alone.”

Chase took in a shaky breath and nodded. Grabbing his other shoulder, Gregory made him turn around and hugged him with all his might. Finn grabbed Tracy’s hand and squeezed it as Lois and Ned embraced and Olivia looked to heaven saying a soft prayer. Looking over at Elizabeth, Finn managed a soft smile. “Thank you Elizabeth. I’ll get everyone up to the OR waiting area.”

She nodded, starting to leave before turning around. “We’re doing everything we can Chase. And I do mean everything. Everyone in that room. Everyone."

As he walked Elizabeth pick up her pace heading back to the patient area, Finn couldn’t shake the feeling he just witnessed his girlfriend give his brother a message in code.

Chapter Text

He owed Ned an apology.

Sitting in the recovery room, holding her hand softly in his Chase couldn’t help but remember the last time Brook Lynn had been in a room like this. When they didn’t know if she had lost too much blood and had laid on the backstage too long for anything to help after Nelle had attacked her. He could hear himself telling Ned and Olivia that Brook Lynn was strong and fighter. That if anyone could survive it was her. How they hadn’t smacked him right then and there he’d never know. If right now someone told him anything remotely similar….well that person better be thankful Dante had insisted that he keep his service weapon at the station when he first got the call from dispatch.

Brushing a piece of hair off her face, his finger traced the line of stitches on her cheek. It wasn’t deep, the doctor had promised. It would fade and she likely wouldn’t have a scar. Chase wasn’t worried about that. Scars faded, just like the one Nelle had given her. She was still going to be the most beautiful woman in the world. And he would tell her that fact every day for the rest of her life. If she would just open her eyes and look at him.

The doctors had probably told him that it may be some time before she came out of the anesthesia but Chase could admit that he hadn’t really heard a word beyond the fact that she was out of surgery and that while she was going to have a long way to go, she was going to be fine. Anything that was said after that resembled the voice of the adults in the old Peanuts cartoons he watched as a kid. The rest, whatever the rest was, he could deal with. As long as she was ok.

Kissing the back of her hand, he tried to ignore the wires that led to the sensors on her fingertips. If he knew his mother in law at all, the first thing Lois was going to do once Brook Lynn was moved out of this recovery room was to fix whatever damage the sensors did to her manicure. Chase rubbed his thumb against her cheek. “For the record your honor, the till death to us part part is supposed to happen way later. The defendant and I had a very long conversation about this.”

“And I already know what you’re going to say. That conversation was about me and my job. That nothing dangerous was going to happen to you except getting dragged into another argument between Tracy and Lucy. Well I want the record to show your honor that I’m not the one in this hospital bed right now.”

“I’m not going to let you live this down, you know. I’ll be telling our grand….” His voice stuttered as his brain caught up with his mouth. Dr. Lee may not have said anything in front of everyone but she didn’t have to. He had seen pictures of the car. It was a miracle Brook Lynn had survived. There was no way there were going to be two miracles today. It would be too greedy.

But he would deal with that later. They could deal with that together. They could always handle anything as long as they were together. So right now what Chase needed to concentrate on was her getting better so they could deal with that. And the first step for that to happen was for her to open her eyes.

“I’m telling everyone.” He continued. “And you’ll roll your eyes at me, the way you do when you're pretending to be annoyed at me. Or maybe the way you do when you really are annoyed with me. And yes you do roll them differently. And no I’m not going to tell you how I know the difference. That comes from many many hours of studying one Brook Lynn Quartermaine Chase. I may not ever have been as great a student as Finn was but this subject? This one I’m an expert at.”

“See I know how your nose wrinkles when you’re pretending to be asleep when I get back from a late shift. And that while you may not care about Valentine’s Day you have an incurable desire to play matchmaker. Or the fact you bite your bottom lip when you are trying to hide how excited you are about something. And you push your hair behind your ears when you get nervous. I have an entire thesis about how you choose your nail polish colors. And I know you'll blush and call me crazy but I’ll tell you every day for the rest of our lives once you get out of here. Or maybe even while you’re still here. Haven’t decided yet.”

“But you’re going to get out of here. And you'll get better. Mainly because I can’t accept anything else. You’re my life Brook Lynn. Everything else is just details as long as you’re here with me. Ok? And with that in mind I’m going to suggest a plan here. You’re going to open your eyes and I’m going to tell you how much I love you in such detail that you’re going to wish I stopped at mushball.”

The door opened but Chase didn’t even turn to look to see how had come in. Elizabeth made her way over to the monitors, taking notes in the chart she held. She offered a sad smile as she looked over at him. “How are you holding up?”

“Are you asking as her nurse or did Finn send you in?”

“A bit of both.” She squeezed his shoulder. “I know you don’t want to hear this but it will probably be another fifteen, twenty minutes before she starts to wake up. And yes I also know you think it’s been hours but it’s only been about thirty minutes. Then we’ll move her to a regular room and then…”

“Then I have to tell her.”

“No you don’t. Or at least not alone. Kelly and I will be right there with you both.” She leaned over and gave him a quick hug. “You aren’t alone in this. Not by a long shot. Trust me I know this is probably the last thing you want to hear right now, but you can get through this.”

“How?”

“One day at a time. And love. You love each other and you hold on to that.”

“That part. That part I can do.”

Chapter Text

“Babe? Babe?”

Letting out a small groan, Brook Lynn opened her eyes slightly to see Chase’s worried face. Her head felt like it was swimming underwater and she wasn’t entirely sure why Chase was looking at her like that. There had to be a good reason. She just couldn’t think of it. Or why it felt like things were touching her. Things other than Chase’s hand.

“Babe?” Why was she so tired? It felt like it took all her energy just to say four letters.

Chase leaned over something and kissed her forehead. If she had another fifteen, twenty minutes she’d probably remember what the word was. “Hey. You’re awake. Do you remember what happened? Do you know where you are?”

Taking a deep breath, she tried to remember. Something had to happen. She wasn’t at home or her office at Deception. She knew that much. Granny would never approve of a bed being in the office, much less one with sheets this uncomfortable. “Hospital?” she guessed.

“That’s my girl.” Chase smiled softly. “You were in an accident. You’re at General Hospital.”

Nodding, Brook Lynn couldn’t help but feel the pull of sleep. “Tired.”

Running his free hand over her hair, Chase nodded. “You sleep. I’ll be right here when you wake up. I’m not going anywhere.”

“Love you.” She mumbled, falling asleep before he could respond.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The next time she opened her eyes, her head still felt like it was swimming but at least she could tell where she was. It was uncomfortably identical to the room she had been confined to after Nelle attacked her. But at least this time, she had upgraded to an impossibly handsome nurse, she thought as her eyes focused on Chase dozing lightly in the chair next to her bed. It looked like the most uncomfortable position in the world, but she knew her husband. He’d never complain a second about it.

“Welcome back.”

Looking over to her left, Brook Lynn found herself meeting Elizabeth’s eyes. “Elizabeth. How long…”

“Have you been asleep?” Elizabeth lowered the chart she had been writing on and sat on the side of her bed. “About an hour or so. But you’ve had a pretty eventful day so if you still feel exhausted that’s normal.” She smiled softly. “I’m going to ask you some questions and then I’ll get your doctor to explain everything to you ok?”

Brook Lynn managed to nod and Elizabeth squeezed her free hand encouragingly. “So you recognized me which is good. Do you know where you are?”

“General Hospital.”

“Very good. Do you remember why you’re here?”

“Chase…Chase said I was in an accident?”

“That’s right.”

The feeling of her other hand being squeezed caused her to look over in Chase’s direction. Clearly he hadn’t been as asleep as he had looked. “There’s the most beautiful woman in the world.”

She would roll her eyes at him, if only she had the energy. Elizabeth just shook her head in his direction. “He’s right. You were in a pretty serious accident. Do you remember anything about it?”

Brook Lynn could remember getting in her car, heading towards a recording session for a new act she had signed a couple of months back. Traffic was on her side for once and she was going to be early. Allison’s new single had come on the radio and she could see herself turning up the volume so she could hear it better. But after that? She shook her head. Nothing.

“It’s ok. It’s very common after accidents like you had. You were brought to the ER and then we had to take you up to surgery. You’re still feeling the aftereffects of the anesthesia. That’s why you’re so tired. It will pass in a few hours.”

“The whole family’s been waiting outside for you to wake up.” Chase explained before kissing her hand. “Elizabeth…”

“I’ll let them know.” She promised as she stood up. “But first I’m going to get Dr. Mitchell and let her know you’re awake. She’ll have a better chance of getting her exam done if Tracy isn’t second guessing her every move or trying to force Finn to take over.”

“Thank you Elizabeth.” Brook Lynn managed to say as the other woman made her way to the door.

“No problem. Just remember this at Christmas.” With a small wave, Elizabeth exited, closing the door tightly behind her leaving Brook Lynn and Chase alone.

“Hi.” she said, raising her hand to rub it against his cheek.

“Hi yourself. How are you feeling?”

“Tired. And like I broke into the family’s wine cellar and drank every bottle that we have.”

“That’s the pain killers.” Chase nodded. “I’ve been told you got the good ones.”

“Family connections should be good for something right?”

“Exactly.” Chase smiled at her but even in her off kilter state she could see it didn’t fully reach his eyes. His thumb brushed against her cheek. “I love you so much. You know that right?”

“I know. I love you too.”

“When I got that call….I don’t think I have ever been so scared in my life. Not even when I thought I was dying. The thought of possibly losing you…”

His voice cracked and Brook Lynn couldn’t help the tears that formed at the corners of her eyes. “I love you.” It didn’t cover all she wanted to say. Her thoughts were still too muddled to put it all into words. But it was a start. And judging by the look on Chase’s face it was enough for him to understand all she couldn’t currently say.

Chase closed his eyes and took in a deep breath. She wasn’t so numbed by painkillers and anesthesia that Brook Lynn didn’t recognize that her husband was nervous. He had a similar look the night he proposed. Only that night there was a hopeful look in his eyes. That part wasn’t there now.

“Brook Lynn, before the doctor comes in there’s something I need to tell you.”

The tears that had been forming started to fall. He didn’t need to say it. She knew. It might be taking her a while to make sense of everything but she could figure this out. She had been in an accident bad enough to require surgery. Whatever Chase had been told had scared him into thinking he might lose her. The fact he said he couldn’t lose her and not the both of them. She squeezed her eyes shut, not wanting to see his face when he confirmed what she was about to say.

“We lost the baby didn’t we?”

He didn’t say anything. She felt him move to sit on the edge of the bed and pulled her into his arms. Wrapping her arms around him Brook Lynn held on as tight as she could. Her body shook with silent sobs. If she knew her family, they weren’t far away. If any of them heard her crying they would be in here in a second. She knew they would mean well but she didn’t want that. She didn’t want them. The only person right now that she wanted was the person she was holding onto for dear life. The one whose tears she couldn’t feel but she knew were falling into her hair.

Through her blurry eyes, she could see Elizabeth open the door. Taking one look at the sight in front of her, she caught Brook Lynn’s eye and offered a sympathetic nod. Of course Elizabeth knew what had happened. She was a nurse. It was probably in her chart somewhere. She took a step back and shut the door again, giving them some time.

The doctor was just going to have to wait.

Chapter Text

She wasn’t entirely sure how long she had been crying. All she knew as the gentle knock at the door was the only thing that really forced her back to reality. A reality where, even though it was the last thing she wanted to do, Brook Lynn knew she had to listen to whatever the doctor wanted to tell her. Or at least somewhat pay attention. She had no doubt between Finn and her granny that someone just outside that door would be able to retain information far more than she would today.

Pulling back just far enough from Chase’s embrace, she wiped the tears off her face and took in a ragged breath. Chase looked at her with concern, seemingly unaware of his own tears. Offering up a sad smile, she reached up to wipe his own cheeks. “Are you sure?” He asked her quietly. “Elizabeth can keep the doctors away as long as you need.”

“And the longer she delays, the more likely Granny is to play the how much money her family has given to this hospital over the years and try to force the issue.” Brook Lynn pointed out. “We have to talk to them at some point right?”

“Some point doesn’t mean right now.”

Brook Lynn shook her head. “Let’s just get it over with. The sooner we talk to the doctor, the sooner everyone else can go home.”

Nodding his head, Chase leaned forward and kissed her softly. “Bravest woman in the world.” He waited for her to get herself as comfortable as she could on a rock hard hospital bed before calling over his shoulder. “Come on in.”

The woman Brook Lynn assumed was Dr. Mitchell entered, her red hair in a tight bun. The first thought Brook Lynn had was that she reminded her of Skye and that reason alone the knot that had formed in her stomach at the sound of the knock loosened slightly. “Mrs. Chase, I’m Dr. Mitchell. I performed your surgery. I’ll be following your recovery while you’re here.” She picked up the chart Elizabeth had been writing in earlier. “Now I see that you know where you are and how you are. That’s good. I had Dr. Evans with Neurology consult and it doesn’t seem like you sustained any neurological damage.”

“But she can’t remember the accident.” Chase pointed out. “Shouldn’t we worry about that?”

“It’s fairly common with trauma. It’s the brain’s way of protecting itself. Your memories may come back in time or they may not. Either way it doesn’t seem to be the result of an injury which is far more concerning.”

“I think there’s a law about only one brain damaged person per family in this town but it’s still good to know.”

Chase was barely able to cover his snort of laughter while Dr. Mitchell looked at her in confusion. “Sorry.” He wrapped his arm around her shoulder and pulled her closer to him. “I’m sure her grandmother will be delighted to explain that joke to you later. Please continue.”

“Alright.” Dr. Mitchell was clearly still confused but too much of a professional to let it stop her. “We did have to remove your spleen. And while we were doing that we found some internal bleeding as well that we needed to repair.” The sound of the door opening caused her to pause and look behind her as Dr. Lee slipped in. “Dr. Lee.”

“I apologize for being late.” Dr. Lee offered a sad smile towards the both of them. “Elizabeth told me your families weren’t aware so don’t worry Elizabeth is currently distracting them so they don’t know I am here.”

“Her Christmas gift is getting bigger and bigger.” Brook Lynn muttered softly.

“As I was going to say, in addition to the internal injuries you also have a crushed pelvis. Your left leg is broken in two places. And we thought your right leg might have been broken as well but it was just your ankle. Even when you are discharged you will likely be pretty immoble for the foreseeable future.”

Brook Lynn nodded, feeling Chase doing the same behind her. “How long will I be here?”

“We’ll take that day by day. I wish I could give you a more firm answer but your injuries are extensive and we don’t want to run the risk of you re-injuring yourself when you go back home.”

It was probably the best non answer she was going to get at this point. She leaned further against Chase and grabbed his hand tightly in hers. “Dr. Lee? I think we both know what you’re going to say.”

Dr. Lee moved closer to them, clearly trying to find the right words. “Yes, the accident did cause a miscarriage. We never found a heartbeat once you were brought in. We did everything we could to try to find some sort of sign but we didn’t find anything. I am truly sorry.”

She didn’t think it was possible for her to hold on to Chase’s hand any harder, but at Dr. Lee’s words she tightened her grip and held on as if he was a life preserver keeping her afloat in the ocean. Feeling the tears start to pool in her eyes again, she took a few deep breaths trying to keep them from falling. She would fall apart later. Right now she needed to get through this. ‘I guess it’s a good thing we didn’t tell anyone yet right?”

“That’s for you to decide. I think your family will be a great comfort to you right now. Especially with what else I have to say.”

The knot in her stomach was suddenly back. Behind her she could feel Chase tense up as well. “What…what do you mean?”

Stopping at the foot of the bed, Dr. Lee closed her eyes for a brief second before she opened them and continued. “I was present in the surgery just in case there was anything we could have done to save the pregnancy. When Dr. Mitchell found the internal bleeding, we also found something else that required me to take over.”

Chase seemed to find his words while Brook Lynn was struggling to find her breath. “What do you mean you found something else? What did you find?”

“Some of the internal bleeding was because one of your fallopian tubes ruptured.”

“Ruptured? What does that mean?” Brook Lynn asked, finally able to speak.

“It burst open due to the accident. It was the cause of the internal bleeding. We were able to stop the bleeding but in order to do so, the best option was to remove the ruptured tube.”

“What.. what exactly does that mean?” Chase asked slowly.

“It means you have one functioning fallopian tube which is a good thing. However it does mean any possible future pregnancies would be more complicated. I know you weren’t actively trying this last time but if you were, it would likely take longer to conceive. And with any surgery there is the chance of scar tissue. In your case, the presence of scar tissue would greatly increase the odds of an ectopic pregnancy. The only thing to do in those situations is terminate the pregnancy.”

“What…what exactly are you saying Dr. Lee?” She could feel the tears falling down her cheeks and she couldn’t bring herself to wipe them away. She was pretty sure Chase hadn’t actually breathed the entire time Dr. Lee was talking.

“In the future, if you wish to have children you likely will not be able to without assistance.”

Chapter Text

“Did they all go home?” Brook Lynn asked as Chase returned to her room, shutting the door behind him. She rubbed her hand across her face. The surgery had already left her exhausted but trying to keep a brave face on for almost their entire family had drained what little energy she had left. She was willing to bet Dr. Mitchell had barely finished explaining all her injuries before they had all come rushing into her room, her mother and Olivia leading the way. It was only blind luck, or possibly Elizabeth’s efforts to stall them as long as possible that Dr. Lee had been able to leave before anyone saw her.

As far as anyone in their family was concerned, the tears were from relief the accident wasn’t worse. That her ribs were just bruised, not broken. Unlike her legs. And her pelvis.

And her heart.

“Even Lois and Olivia finally left. But I’m sure they’ll be back first thing in the morning.” Chase tilted his head in consideration. “Hopefully with breakfast.”

“What? You’re not a fan of rubbery eggs and tasteless pancakes?” She feigned shock. “Detective Chase, it's like I don’t even know you.”

“It’s a good thing you have a lifetime to learn.” He sat down next to her on the bed, holding her hand in his, like he had been doing since the moment she woke up after the surgery. It was the one constant comfort during this entire nightmare of a day. The gentle pressure of Chase’s hand holding hers. Rubbing his thumb across her knuckles, he fixed his eyes on her face. “How are you feeling?”

“Is it too early for the like I got hit by a truck joke?”

“It’s always going to be way too early to make that joke.”

“Then like I could sleep for a million years and still be tired.” She tilted her head to the right. He looked almost as tired as she felt. Lifting her free hand, she caressed his cheek. “You don’t have to stay. You should go home. Get some sleep. I’m going to be very boring company.”

“Your honor, let the record show the defendant is delirious on pain meds if she thinks I’m leaving..” Chase stood up and pulled the chair he had occupied earlier closer to her bed. “I can sleep just fine here.”

“You’ll be the one who needs pain meds if you sleep on that thing.” Brook Lynn protested. “The cot in the boathouse is probably more comfortable.”

“Brook Lynn.” It had been a long time since Chase had used what she thought of his detective voice with her. Was the last time when he had told her that he knew Bailey was really Maxie’s daughter? Or was it when he found out she hadn’t written the letter of support for him getting his badge back? “I really don’t care how boring you think you’re going to be tonight or how fast you’re going to fall asleep. After everything that’s happened today I don’t particularly want to be that far away from you.”

She nodded slightly, biting her bottom lip. “I’m sorry. I don’t want you to go. I just….just….” Letting out a sigh and leaned her head back on the flat hospital pillow. “I don’t know what I want right now. Except for the last 24 hours to have not happened.”

Sitting in the chair, Chase resumed holding her hand and brushed a piece of hair behind her ear. “Yeah. I want that too.”

The tears she had been trying to keep from falling while their families were in the room with them started to fall again. Taking in a shaky breath, she wasn’t at all surprised to see tears starting to well up in her husband’s eyes either. “How are we going to do this Chase? What are we supposed to do?”

“I don’t know.” He shook his head. “But I don’t think we need to figure it all out tonight.” He brushed the top of her knuckles with his lips. “I noticed we didn’t say anything to our families.”

“I know I should have said something but I just…I couldn’t say it. And Olivia and ma were already hovering and I couldn’t deal with them doing that right now. I’m sorry.”

“Hey. Hey.” Chase sat up and moved closer to her. “There’s nothing to be sorry for, ok? We don’t have to tell anyone if we don’t want to. There’s no rulebook for this. I wasn’t jumping to say anything either.”

Nodding, she sniffled. “I’m really glad you’re here.”

“Babe, there’s nowhere else I’m going to be.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Tracy walked into the kitchen, relieved to find it empty. Even though everyone had claimed they were going to bed, she wasn’t a fool. She doubted that many people in the house were sleeping tonight. Except maybe Leo. Trying to calm her mind, she started following the steps of making a proper cup of tea just like her mother had taught her as a little girl.

How she wished her mother was here right now. She would know exactly what to say to make everything seem better. Lila Quartermaine would have flashed her gentle smile and convinced the doctor (who honestly didn’t seem old enough to have graduated from medical school) to tell them everything, not the highly edited version Tracy was positive they were being told.

It had taken one look at her granddaughter’s face to confirm that she was right. While she and Brook Lynn shared many traits, she had inherited Lois’s terrible poker face. And Chase wasn’t much better. Everyone was just too relieved to see her awake and being told she was going to recover to have questioned it. But she was not everyone. She was Tracy Angelica Quartermaine. She was the daughter of Edward Quartermaine. And if there was one thing she had inherited from her father, it was the ability to tell when she was being sold a load of goods.

There was something that wasn’t right with Brook Lynn and she was going to figure it out.

But she had to approach this carefully. Brook Lynn was too good at avoiding the subject if it suited her purpose. And that husband of hers would do anything to back her up. Normally she found that admirable but not when it kept her from getting what she wanted. Which meant she needed to come up with a plan. A plan that had to come across as something that was for their own good. Something that would be considered a generous and helpful offer.

Something Tracy could admit she wasn’t exactly known for, but if she could drop the right hints to the Bensonhurt Brigade well that might just work.

The whistle of the kettle on the stove distracted her only momentarily. Pouring the water into the cup, Tracy dunked the tea bag as she started to ponder options. Brook Lynn needed help. And she was going to make sure she got it.

Chapter Text

“How’s my baby?”

Brook Lynn shot Chase a dirty look as he barely covered his bark of laughter with a faked cough. Her mother had entered the room the same every morning for the past three weeks and for some reason he could never explain, Chase found it hilarious. Elizabeth thought it was some form of what the nurses had nicknamed “ICU psychosis” when the loved ones of the patients seemingly just lost their minds a little bit with how long they had been spending in the hospital.

“The same she was yesterday. And the day before that.” Brook Lynn pointed out as her mother hugged her before fussing over Chase and handing him over a tupperware container with whatever breakfast she or Olivia had made that morning. “I’m fine.”

Honestly fine was a stretch but she wasn’t about to go into detail when she couldn’t leave the room if the emotions got too much. If and when she told her mother the truth, it was going to be some place where she could shut the door behind her. Whenever and wherever that was.

“And that is my cue to get going.” Chase stood up and kissed Lois on the cheek. “Thank you for the breakfast.”

“Don’t mention it. Since you won’t let us do anything else…..”

“Ma.” Brook Lynn said in a warning tone.

“I said nothing.” Lois protested, throwing her hands in the air.

“I will see you tonight.” He turned his attention back to her, leaning down to kiss her softly. “Try not to kill any physical therapists today.”

“I make no promises.” She smiled softly. “Be careful.”

“I will.” Chase kissed her again before grabbing his jacket off the corner of the bed where he had laid it after getting ready in the small bathroom of her room. They had debated long and hard about him going back to work while she was still recovering. But eventually practicality won out. No matter when she was released, she was going to need a lot of help when she got back home. And it made sense to wait for him to take time off when that time came. How he was able to spend every night in the most uncomfortable looking chair/cot known to man and then spend the day arresting the criminals of Port Charles was a mystery she would never solve.

Lois sat down in the chair he had vacated as the door shut behind him. “So have the doctors said anything about when you’re getting released yet?”

“Not since you asked me yesterday.” Brook Lynn pointed out. “They aren’t going to say anything until I’m cleared by my physical therapist.” She held up her finger to stop her mother from talking. “And we aren’t moving into Monica’s house to speed that process up. We’ve been over this.”

“And I understand. No young married couple wants to live under the same roof as their family. We both saw what happened with Cousin Marco. Twice. But I come with a compromise.”

“You and Olivia taking turns sleeping on the couch is not a compromise.”

“No no no no. I’m talking about the guest house.”

“The guest house? No one ever stays in the guest house. I don’t think anyone’s ever been in it since Great Grandfather had it built.”

“That is because your Great Grandmother always wanted family in the house. And we both know Edward was never able to argue with Lila. But the guest house is perfect.”

“It probably should be condemned. Wyatt was convinced it was a haunted house.”

“I heard you were the one who convinced him of that.”

“Details.”

“Anyway, Monica had it renovated a few months back so it’s not condemned. There’s room for all your equipment…”

“The wheelchair Ma. You can say the wheelchair.” It currently sat in the corner of the room, waiting for the orderly to take her down to the PT room later today. The main reason why she couldn’t just be released and hide away from everyone in their apartment. Because she of the broken leg, broken ankle and crushed pelvis couldn’t walk independently. And their building didn’t have an elevator. And as much as he swore he wouldn’t mind, there was no way she was going to take Chase up on his offer to carry her up and down the stairs whenever she needed. She was sure her husband thought he was being romantic but it just made her feel helpless.

A feeling she was way too familiar with these days.

“Fine, the wheelchair.” Lois continued. “There’s a bedroom on the first floor. You and Chase can still have your privacy but if you need anything the family and Yuri are close by to help.”

“Is Monica aware of this offer?”

“Of course she is. Besides you’re family. When has Monica ever turned down family? I mean she could have made your grandmother use the guest house years ago but she never did.”

It felt too close. Way too close. The Quartermaines had never respected boundaries. And if they moved into the guest house, the entire family would be over all the time with the excuse of just checking on them and seeing if they needed anything. Yuri’s help would resemble his time as her bodyguard. She and Chase could barely have a private conversation now without a nurse, a doctor, a family member or friend coming by. There were days all she wanted to do was just curl up in a ball and cry for hours but she couldn’t because she didn’t know when someone was going to just stop by. If they were on the property, she would still be on guard constantly. The whole point of getting out of the hospital was to go home. Their home.

Their home with the half finished bottle of sparkling grape juice Chase had bought when they found out about the pregnancy was still in the fridge. And the other bottles he had bought for when they decided to tell everyone the good news.

She bit the inside of her lip to keep from crying and was almost glad to see an orderly open the door and go to move the wheelchair closer to the bed. Taking in a breath, Brook Lynn forced herself to smile. “Time for physical therapy.”

“Alright but we aren’t done with this conversation Brookie.”

“I wouldn’t expect anything less.”

Chapter Text

“Hey Kristen!” Elizabeth chirped happily as she came into the physical therapy room with a wave. “I’m here to take Brook Lynn for a quick MRI.”

During his last visit to Port Charles, Lucky had taught the boys how to play poker. None of them were particularly good at the game but they at least understood the concept of a poker face. A concept Brook Lynn clearly didn’t understand as confusion was all over her face. Elizabeth could see the words What MRI about to fly out of her mouth. She grabbed the handles of the wheelchair and started pushing out the door before they could be spoken

“I had an MRI yesterday. Why do I need another one? And why are you coming to get me for it? Don’t you have other nurses to do that? Or orderlies?”

“Your understanding of what a head nurse does is remarkably similar to your grandmother’s. Just letting you know that. And if you were actually going to have an MRI then it probably would be someone else but since you’re not….”

She paused and smiled at Brook Lynn while she pressed the button for the elevator. Mercifully it arrived quickly and was empty as the doors were barely closed before Brook Lynn eagerly asked “Jail break?”

“You wish. No. Just a place I thought you might appreciate.”

Leaning back against the back of the wheelchair Brook Lynn closed her eyes. “If it means five minutes away from my mother right now I’ll love it.”

“She’s driving you crazy?” Elizabeth asked sympathetically.

“I know she means well and I love her. And I’m glad she and Olivia are keeping Chase fed because he probably would live on coffee alone right now if they’d let him. But….”

“But.” Elizabeth nodded, squeezing the younger woman’s shoulder in sympathy. It hadn’t escaped her notice that Chase and Brook Lynn hadn’t shared with their families all the details about Brook Lynn’s injuries. The elevator dinged their arrival and Elizabeth ushered them both out the doors and down the hall towards a door that stated it was for authorized personnel only.

“I thought you said this wasn’t a jail break.” Brook Lynn asked as Elizabeth held her ID up against the scanner getting the door to unlock.

“And it’s not.” Pushing them through the door, she paused so Brook Lynn could take in the full effect. The garden wasn’t in full bloom yet but it was enough to make anyone know that spring was actually here. She wasn’t at all surprised to see Brook Lynn reach out to gently touch one of the budding roses. “But I can see how this could be confused for one.”

“Where are we?”

“The Lila Quartermaine Memorial Garden.” Elizabeth said softly as Brook Lynn shot her a shocked look. “Edward donated money to fix up the outdoor break area shortly after she died. Of course he insisted on the roses.”

“Of course.”

Stopping them near a small bench, Elizabeth sat down. “This is one of my favorite places in the hospital. And this time of day, it’s usually pretty quiet. So no one is going to tell on me bringing an unauthorized person down here.”

“Your secret is safe with me.” Brook Lynn took a deep breath. “It’s probably beautiful when everything is blooming.”

“It is. And it’s very peaceful. Which is why I thought it was a great place for us to talk.”

“I’m sorry I can’t help make Finn less awkward. I’ve tried.”

“Not that.” Elizabeth chuckled. “I thought we could talk about something we have in common.”

“And what would that be?”

“Miscarriage. Or miscarriages in my case.” She held up two fingers in front of Brook Lynn’s shocked face. “Two."

“I didn’t…I never heard…”

“You weren’t in town for either of them. And not like we talk about these things anyway. But the first time I was pregnant while I was married to Ric, before Cameron. I lost that baby. And then a few years later, before Lucky and I got married the first time, I was Jax and Courtney’s surrogate. Lost that one as well.”

She reached out and touched Brook Lynn on the knee, not missing how the other woman was refusing to look at her right now. Or the tears that were starting to fall down her cheeks. “I know it’s not exactly the same. I didn’t have the complications you have but I do understand a little bit of what you and Chase are going through. And I just wanted you to know that you can talk to me about it. Both of you. You don’t have to keep it a secret between the two of you.”

“How do you know we haven’t told anyone?”

“Well for starters Finn would be a million times more awkward about not want to say the wrong thing when he visits. He’s at base level. And I think we both know that if Lois and Olivia knew the entire truth they would never leave your room.” Elizabeth leaned further forward, squeezing Brook Lynn’s knee softly so as to not cause any additional pain. “So that’s why I brought you here. So if you want to talk, you can. Without any judgment or anyone you aren’t ready to tell overhearing.”

“And if I can’t?”

“Then we’ll just sit here and enjoy the flowers. Or I can tell you how jealous some of the other patients are that Chase still insists on spending every night by your side.”

Brook Lynn sniffed and offered a watery smile. “I keep trying to tell him to go home and sleep in a real bed. He refuses. Says he’s not going home until I do.”

“That’s sweet.”

“It’s crazy and I tell him that every morning when he complains about his back hurting.” She paused long enough to wipe at the tears on her cheek. “But I wouldn’t be able to get through any of this without him.”

“I know I said we didn’t have to talk about it if you didn’t want to but I am going to give you some advice. Don’t shut each other out. You’re both in pain. Don’t hide it from each other. Don’t use it as a weapon to hurt each other with. Right now there’s only a handful of us that know what’s really going on but the two of you? You’re the only ones who really know what it feels like. Lean on each other. Talk to each other. Don’t try to protect each other by not talking about it to avoid hurting each other.” Seeing Brook Lynn nod, she held up a single finger. “And one more thing I promise. Consider talking to someone. A professional someone. It helps. I saw Gail Baldwin after both my miscarriages and it helped.”

“Well the Quartermaines are crazy so that wouldn’t be a shocking development.” Brook Lynn joked weakly. “We should probably get back. If my mother heard your MRI story she’ll start looking inside all the machines soon.”

“I think we’ve got a few more minutes. Let’s just enjoy the garden.”

“Ok. Elizabeth?"

“Yes?”

“Thank you.”

“Any time. And I mean that. Any time.”

Chapter Text

“Alright alright I’m leaving.” Olivia put her hands up in surrender. Chase tried to keep back an amused grin at her protests as she kissed the top of Brook Lynn’s head and grabbed the now empty container that had contained his dinner. It was the same dance every night. Olivia would stay as late as she could to make sure he ate dinner and they were both settled for the night before leaving. And normally he could count on his wife to meet his eye behind Olivia’s back and exchange a fond exasperated eye roll at her step mother.

But ever since he arrived tonight, he could tell something wasn’t quite right. Brook Lynn was saying all the right things. But he could tell her heart wasn’t in it. She was distracted by something. And if he had to guess it was probably related to the MRI Olivia told him she had earlier today. Brook Lynn had said everything was fine and nothing to worry about but she just had one. The fact a second one had to be performed the next day? The possibilities of what she wasn’t saying had his stomach in knots.

“Give Leo a hug for me.” Brook Lynn asked. It would take someone paying very close attention to know she was faking the lightness in her voice. And if there was one thing he was an expert at, it was paying very close attention to her.

“I will.” Olivia promised. “I will see you both tomorrow.”

“Good night Olivia.” Chase smiled as she opened the door and left. Closing it behind her, he turned to face Brook Lynn. “So you want to tell me what really happened today?”

“You know what happened today.” She waved her hands in the air before picking at an imaginary thread on the sheet that covered her legs. “The same thing as yesterday. Physical therapy. My mother driving me crazy.”

“A mysterious MRI that you apparently needed to have today.” He pointed out, sitting in the chair Olivia had just vacated. Stilling her hand by covering it with his, he squeezed her palm gently before tilting her chin towards him to keep her from avoiding his eyes. “What was that about?”

“Nothing. It was nothing.” She smiled softly at him. “How was work?”

“Work was fine but we’re not changing the subject yet. It wasn’t nothing if you had to have a second one after you had one yesterday. Did they miss something? What happened?”

Brook Lynn closed her eyes, chewing her bottom lip for a second. Chase waited. He’d wait all night and the night after that if he had to. He hoped she knew that. She let out a breath, opening her eyes warily at him.

“Ok there was no MRI. I mean there was one yesterday but it was like I said. Fine. No issues. There wasn’t one today.”

“So why does everyone think you had one?” He felt the knot in stomach ease slightly but he was still on edge. What exactly was Brook Lynn trying to hide?

“Elizabeth said that so she could take me to a break area I didn’t know existed. One my great grandfather paid for and dedicated to my great grandmother. She wanted to give us time to talk. She wanted to talk to me about how she had two miscarriages.”

“Oh.” It was all Chase could think of to say. They had been avoiding talking about that particular elephant in the room but apparently they were going to tonight. ‘I didn’t know that.”

“Me either. But it’s not like that’s something people talk about regularly. Which is the other thing she wanted to talk about. The fact we haven’t been talking about it. At least with our families.” She caught the look on his face and answered his question before he could even ask. “Your brother would be a million times more awkward around me if he knew.”

“Ok that’s probably true.” He moved to sit on the side of the bed, carefully avoiding her broken leg. “Do you want to tell our families?”

“I don’t know.” She sighed, tilting her head to one side. “Even if I did, I don't know what we’d say. Or how I’d even get through saying it. Not to mention…”

‘Yeah everything else.” Chase nodded. “I don’t think we’d have to tell them everything at once. I don’t think there’s rules in this situation.”

“I know. And I don’t mean to not talk about it with you. I just….” Brook Lynn let out a frustrated sigh. “I know I’m a mess right now and I don’t know how I feel from one minute to the next. I don’t not want to talk to you but that door doesn’t lock and the only person in both of our families who understands the concept of knocking is your dad and the last thing I want is anyone to find out because they walked in and heard us talking.”

“Hey hey hey.” Chase leaned forward and kissed her hand before looking at her and using his thumb to wipe away the tears that had started flowing down her cheeks. He was somehow surprised when she reached up and did the same for him. When exactly had he started crying he wondered? “I don’t want that either, ok? We’re on the same team here. Whatever we decide, whenever we decide it, it will be because we decided it was what we both wanted ok?”

Nodding, she drew in a shaky breath. “I just don’t want you to think I’m shutting you out. Because I’m not. I want to. I just….I don’t think I can get through this without you. I’m just scared that if we don’t talk about it, you’ll think I’m telling you to go and I’m not. I don’t want you to go.”

He drew her into his arm and let her settle her head against his shoulder. He buried his nose in her hair, taking in her unique scent that meant home to him. “I’m not going anywhere.” He promised as she used his shirt as a rag to dry her eyes with. “For better or worse, remember?”

“I kinda hoped we’d already had the worse.” He looked down at her as she leaned her head back just enough to look at him. “I just want to be home. I just want to lock the door, curl up on the couch and sit just like this in the dark.”

“Your first night back. And maybe even that whole week.” He promised. “There’s just the matter of you being cleared to go home.”

“My physical therapist said I’m just about there with being able to transfer myself. So it’s just….”

“The fact our building is old and I’ve yet to convince Len to make it ADA compliant in a hurry.” Chase finished. “The man is never in a hurry.”

“That’s the other thing that may have sent me a little over the edge today.” Brook Lynn sighed as she leaned back on the bed, forcing him to release his grip on her shoulder.

“Len? What did he visit or something?”

“No. Not him.” She rolled her eyes at him. “My mother had what she called a brilliant idea this morning.”

“There’s a sentence I’ve learned to fear.”

“Apparently Monica has redone the guest house. And my mother thinks that if we stayed there, I could be released earlier.”

“If Monica has a guest house why does everyone stay in the main house?”

“Tradition? And the fact Dillon and I may have started a rumor that it was haunted years ago. Who knows really. Like many things in my family, it doesn’t make sense.”

“Clearly.” Chase smiled at her. “I take it you aren’t a fan of this idea?”

“I don’t know. I mean it’s not the main house. We’d have privacy. The door would lock, which is ideal right now. But it’s not home. And that’s where I want to be.”

“I want you home too. More than anything. But if this gets us closer to that? Then we should probably talk about it.”

“Can we talk about it tomorrow? Right now I just want you to hold me.”

“That I have no problem with.”

Chapter Text

“Oh good. You’re here.” Tracy announced herself with her usual flourish, opening the door without caring a bit about what could be going on behind it. It was one of Brook Lynn’s winning arguments against moving back into Monica’s house while she finished her recovery. Olivia was one thing but the possibility of her grandmother seeing her husband naked? That was a firm no way in hell.

“As opposed to where? Visiting Aunt Brenda?”

“Normally I would point out sarcasm is the result of your mother’s unfortunate influence over you but today I will take it as a sign you are feeling more like yourself.” Tracy sat down a chair and waved her hand at the nurse that was currently checking Brook Lynn’s vital signs. “Must you do that now? My granddaughter and I have important things to discuss.”

“I’m so sorry about her. “ Brook Lynn said with an apologetic smile. “This is why we don’t allow her out in public.”

“Believe me I’ve heard worse. And I’m finished anyway Ms. Quartermaine.” The nurse finished jotting down a few notes in the chart before walking out the door.

“Finally. Some privacy.”

“Granny.” Brook Lynn fixed her best glare on her but Tracy merely shrugged. She sighed in defeat. “What exactly do we need to discuss?”

“Exactly what we need to do to get you released. Now I have learned from sources…”

“Finn. You mean Finn.”

“Fine. I talked with Finn and apparently you’ve made great strides with your physical therapy. It is only the matter of where you will be going after you’ve been released. Not only is your apartment far too small for two people to live comfortably….”

“Chase and I are just fine there.” Brook Lynn interrupted quickly.

“I know it’s very romantic now while you are technically still newlyweds but trust me give it a few years and you’ll be begging for more space.” Brook Lynn bit the inside of her cheek to keep her face from giving anything away. Her grandmother may be more subtle than her mother or stepmother but there was no doubt to what she was referring to. What Brook Lynn was well aware wasn’t going to happen. “And I’ve heard about that ridiculous notion your mother had about moving into the guest house. Between Monica’s terrible taste and the proximity to your mother, well I just don’t blame you there.”

“Monica did a fine job with the redecorating.” Her father and brother had stopped by last night with a video tour that Leo had insisted they make to show them what the house looked like. Leo channeling his best HGTV host impression was too funny for words and while she hadn’t wanted to admit it, Brook Lynn did tell Chase after they had left that the place did look very nice. She still didn’t want to live there.

“Again that’s the unfortunate result of your exposure to the Bensonhurst Brigade for far too long. However I think I have come up with a solution that will solve our current issues.”

“I already told Olivia we aren’t moving into the Metro Court.”

“Of course not. Although I admit it would be easier to keep you up to date about Deception business if you were there. No no no. What you need to do is move into a house.”

“Granny, that's ridiculous. We’re not going to rent a house for just a few months. That makes no sense.”

“I seem to recall the two of you doing just that with a certain beach house?”

“Ok one different situation and two Jax didn’t charge us rent. That’s not going to happen again.” And neither would moving into a house with a baby in tow either. She took a deep breath in through the nose to try to keep herself calm.

“Which is why I’m not saying rent a house. Since the lawyers and the bank will take far too long releasing money from your trust, I will buy you the house.”

“You…you can’t buy us a house.” Brook Lynn protested as her head swam with the suggestion.

“I most certainly can. And if it hurts Chase’s pride then we can call it a loan and you can pay me back after the lawsuit.”

“Lawsuit? What lawsuit?” Brook Lynn briefly wondered if maybe everyone had dismissed the idea of her having some sort of brain damage a little too quickly. That would certainly help explain this entire conversation right now.

“The one I’m having the lawyers file against the driver that hit you.” Tracy, as if that was the obvious answer. “There must be consequences.”

“Dante told us the driver was going to plead guilty, He’s going to jail”

“Nothing is more effective than financial consequences. Believe me.”

“Tell me you have not talked with the lawyers yet. I don’t want to sue anyone. I just want to get past this and move on.”

“Which you will need money to do.” Tracy said patiently. “And a place to do that in. Which is why this is the perfect solution.”

“Which is why what is the perfect solution?” Chase asked as he entered the room, Gregory coming behind him.”

“Don’t make her answer that.” Brook Lynn pleaded.

“Good you both are here. Maybe both of you can tell her my plan makes the most sense.” Tracy clapped her hands before turning her attention to both men. “I have found a solution to the issue of Brook Lynn needing to be discharged. I will buy a house. They will move in and if they insist they can pay me back with interest of course after we win the lawsuit against the driver of the other car.”

Gregory hid his chuckle but Brook Lynn heard it and shook her head at him. Her grandmother needed no encouragement. The last time she had seen Chase have such a confused look on his face was when Finn started his best man speech with a story about the mating habits of komodo dragons. “I’m sorry…what?” He finally managed to say before he looked over at her. “Did she just….”

“Good. I was beginning to wonder if I really did have brain damage after all but if you heard that too then I’m good.” Brook Lynn let out a sigh of relief.

“There is no need for the dramatics.” Tracy shook her head. “Gregory, you agree with my plan don’t you?”

“It’s a very generous offer.” Gregory allowed with a slight nod. ‘But if the plan is to help Brook Lynn be discharged sooner, it would take awhile. Between the house hunting and the negotiation on price I’m sure you’ll want to do.”

“Of course.” Tracy allowed.

“Not to mention closing on it and then the actual moving. It could be months before everything was ready. And lawsuits can just move so slow.”

“Those are all details that can be worked out. We were able to throw a wedding on a shortened timeline and we can certainly do the same for buying a house.”

Chase finally recovered his power of speech. “Dad’s right Tracy. It’s a very generous offer. So generous I think the best thing we can do is discuss it seriously and then make a decision.”

“What is there to discuss?” Tracy protested.

“Why don’t we leave them alone for the night and let them think about it. Come on I’ll buy you a cup of mediocre coffee from the cafeteria” Gregory suggested. It would never cease to amaze Brook Lynn how well her father in law could handle her grandmother. If anyone else had suggested it, Tracy would have continued arguing but instead she stood up and made her way towards the door.

“We will continue this discussion later” Tracy promised.

“Can’t wait.” Brook Lynn smiled before mouthing the words thank you in Gregory’s direction once Tracy turned her back to them. She waited for the door to close firmly behind them, a feat she was sure Gregory was to thank for before looking at Chase as he slowly sat down next to her. “I promise I did not know she was going to say any of that.”

“I believe you.” Chase ran his hand through his hair before looking at her again. “Do you think it’s a good idea?”

“No. It’s my grandmother. There would be strings. Even when we paid her back she’d hold buying us a house over our heads for the rest of our lives.”

“Good. We’re on the same page there. But she is right that we need to make some decisions soon. You staying here much longer is not good for either of us.”

“And the apartment is out.” Brook Lynn laid her head back on the pillows behind her. “And finding a decent place to rent even on a short term basis could take as long as any house hunt.”

“I know you aren’t a fan of it but….”

“But it’s the best choice.” Brook Lynn finished for him. “The guest house.”

“The guest house.” Chase nodded. “It would take some creativity and maybe a few schemes to keep Lois and Olivia from barging in all hours but you are the best at schemes.”

“Flatterer.”

“Just telling the truth.” Chase leaned over and kissed her forehead. “It wouldn’t be forever and I’m pretty sure Monica would understand making sure we have all the copies of the key.”

“It’s not forever.” Brook Lynn repeated. “It’s only temporary.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“I have to say that as generous as your offer was, I don't think they are going to take you up on it.” Gregory pointed out as they waited on the elevator.

“That was the entire point.” Tracy smiled smugly. Seeing Gregory’s confused face she patted his arm. “I’ll upgrade you from coffee to dinner and tell you the whole story.”

“I think the entire story may need to include dessert as well but lead the way.”

Chapter Text

“They’re letting you drive solo now.” Gregory remarked as he leaned against his cane as Brook Lynn pushed herself in the wheelchair down the hall, nearing him.

“Have to prove I can do it in order to get out of here.” She smiled as she came to a stop in front of him. “I figured I would work on it now before Chase gets off work.”

Gregory nodded. “He’d be too eager to help you.”

“Race me.” Brook Lynn corrected, getting a chuckle out of her father-in-law. “He’s convinced he can still use one of these things better than I can. And if he was to win he’d be too busy gloating and do something like drive himself right down the stairs. And right into being a patient.”

“Well you’re probably right there. Would you mind some company?”

“I never mind your company.” Brook Lynn let Gregory set the pace and they started down the hallway towards the waiting area and back towards the elevators. She kept her eyes peeled for any empty benches along the wall in case Gregory needed to rest before they got to their destination. He had been doing well these past few months, but she wouldn’t put it past him to hide any new symptoms from them while she was stuck here. “Did you have a doctor’s appointment today?”

“I suppose you wouldn’t believe that I just came to see you.”

“I’m sure you were on your way to see me. But your weekly appointment with Dr. Merchand is usually around this time of day. And if Finn finds you visiting me, he’s not going to push for information about what was said.”

Seeing him stop, Brook Lynn stopped herself and put on her best innocent smile as he shook his head at her. “You know sometimes I wonder who the actual detective is between the two of you.”

“Then you already know that I’m not going to stop until you answer my question.”

“The appointment went fine.” Gregory allowed, leaning a little further on the wall. Brook Lynn kept a watchful eye on the hallway for any nurse or doctor should she need to get help. “No major changes, which is what passes for good news these days.”

“Hey we take any and all good news.” Brook Lynn pointed her finger at him. “Especially where you are concerned.”

“I could say the same thing about you.” He pointed back at her. “Chase said it would just be a few more days before you’re discharged?”

“From one fishbowl to another.” she said under her breath.

It was probably the years of being a professor that allowed Gregory to catch what she had said. “I was under the impression you were ready to leave. I know Chase is ready for it.”

“I am looking forward to being able to sleep for the entire night without being woken up to check my vitals. And if Chase spends much more time sleeping in that chair, I don’t care how much he protests he’s fine, I know he won’t be able to walk upright soon. It’s just…I’ll be going from the watchful eye of the doctors to the watchful eyes of my mother and Olivia.”

“Ahh” Gregory nodded in understanding. “I can see how that would be….”

“Annoying?”

“I was going to say overwhelming.”

“I know they mean well. I just…I just don’t want them to hover. At least here, a nurse or someone was able to kick them out if needed. When I’m staying on the same property…” Brook Lynn grimaced as it dawned on her exactly who she was complaining to. And why he had resisted even considering moving in with Finn for so long. “Sorry. We’re very lucky that we can use the guest house since going back home is out of the question right now. And I shouldn’t complain.”

“Don’t stop on my account.” Gregory smiled as they neared a bench and he slowly sat down. “I think I may understand where you’re coming from.” He rested both hands on the top of his cane. “I think we might be able to help each other. One fishbowl resident to another..”

“Oh really? How so?”

“When Tracy and I play backgammon, Olivia and Lois always seem to be nearby to see if we need anything. We play a few more games a week at the house….”

“And I don’t mention that you’re scheduling your appointments when both Chase and Finn are working?” She guessed. “I will consider it but only if you tell me the truth about what’s going on at the appointments. Or I’ll tell Granny and you’ll have to deal with her.”

“You drive a hard bargain.” He leaned over and kissed her forehead. “Must be why you’re my favorite daughter-in-law.”

“Only daughter-in-law.”

“It’s still true.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

One hot summer day when he had been around five or six, Chase remembered playing with a kid at the park who had a magnifying glass and was seeing just what he could melt with it. Chase had offered up a Hot Wheel as an experiment. They had gotten it about half melted when his mom had discovered what exactly they were doing and separated the two of them. He hadn’t ever seen that particular kid again but the Hot Wheel had stayed in his room for years.

And that half melted plastic was all he could think of while he watched Brook Lynn’s crumpled car be loaded up on the bed of a tow truck to be taken out of the police impound lot. With the other driver pleading guilty it wasn’t going to be needed as evidence in a trial and if Tracy ever did bring them around on the idea of suing, the insurance company had plenty of pictures. All that was left was for it to be loaded up and let someone else try to salvage whatever they could from it.

Chase had seen the pictures but this was the first time he had actually seen the car. Seen just how close he had come to losing Brook Lynn. The driver’s door was noticeably absent, but not the jagged lines in the metal where the firefighters had cut it off to get her out. He always teased her about needing to sit so close to the steering wheel so she could see over it but even she would be uncomfortable with the steering column now seemingly in the backseat.

“Buddy.” Dante clasped his hand on Chase’s shoulder, causing him to jump slightly. He had forgotten his partner had insisted on coming down with him when the impound lot called needing his signature to release the car. “Come on. You signed the paperwork. Let’s go back.”

“I will. I just…..I just needed to see it.”

He had already gone to the intersection to see the spot where his entire life changed in an instant. It had probably been back to normal traffic patterns within a few hours of the wreck. Chase was probably the only person there who knew what happened there, what was lost. Brook Lynn’s scar was already fading. Her broken bones would heal and she wouldn’t need to use the wheelchair. There would be no visible reminder of what had happened.

And it didn’t seem right. It felt like there should be some sort of proof that something terrible had happened. Something permanent and real. Something like the twisted piece of metal he was currently starring at.

It had happened. It wasn’t a prolonged nightmare he couldn’t wake up from. The car was proof of it. So he had to look at it. Had to see it. Had to see it leave the lot so he could have some sort of ending for this part of the story.

The tow truck’s engine roared to life and Chase blinked slowly as it started down the row of other cars towards the exit of the lot. That part of his life was over, he thought as it moved out of his field of vision. He had no idea what this new chapter would include.

Chapter Text

Looking around the living room of the guest house, Brook Lynn could admit Monica had done an amazing job with the remodel. Gone were the dark corners and cobwebs. Light now flooded the room and the off white overstuffed couch reminded her of the beach house. She bit the inside of her cheek to keep herself from going down that road for too long. Their time at the beach house would always be precious to her but she couldn’t think about it right now. Not when the mere mention of babies made her want to scream and cry. And she wasn’t about to do that while her family was standing around. Or trying to re-fluff the pillow behind her back as her mother was currently doing.

“Ma.” She protested, trying to push her hand back. Chase shook his head as he sat down next to her. He and Ned had escaped to the kitchen to put away the literal mountain of groceries Olivia had brought with her. It seemed it didn't matter both of them had said over and over again this was just a temporary situation, the rest of her family believed it was a permanent move. “It’s fine really. You can stop.”

Lois put her finger against her lip for a brief moment before turning towards Olivia. “I don’t know Vivi. I still think that coffee table is too close. What if she bangs into it trying to get up. I think it needs to be moved. Nedly….”

“The coffee table is fine. If need to be moved Chase can do it later.” Brook Lynn stopped her before she could go any further. “That’s why he goes to the gym all the time.”

“It’s true.” Chase deadpanned.

“You’re all being ridiculous.” Tracy said dismissively. “They wouldn’t have released her from the hospital if she wasn’t ready. At least they wouldn’t have if they wanted to keep this family donating to them. They’re here. They’re fine. We should go back to the house.”

“I don’t often say this, but Mother is right.” Ned put his hands on Olivia’s shoulders. “We can always come back tomorrow.”

“Wait!” Olivia clapped her hands before pointing towards the couch. “Just one thing before we go. Lolo?”

“Oh yeah!” Lois excitedly followed Olivia out the door, leaving Ned standing there in confusion.

“I have no idea what those two are up to but I am sure it’s not anything I want to be a part of.” Tracy sniffed before coming over to kiss Brook Lynn on the forehead and patting Chase on the shoulder. “Welcome home. I will see you both later. Ned?”

“In a minute Mother.” Ned promised before turning his attention to the couch. “Look I know this isn’t what either of you wanted but for the record, I’m glad you’re both here. And I’ll try my best to keep your mother and Olivia in check.”

“Thank you Daddy.” Brook Lynn smiled softly as he went to open the door. As soon as he did, Olivia and Lois rushed through. In Olivia’s arms was a basket with a small black and white boxer puppy with a truly ridiculous red bow around it’s neck. Lois’s hands were full of what Brook Lynn could only guess were supplies. As Chase stood up to take some of the items from Lois, Olivia made her way to the couch, depositing the basket on Brook Lynn’s lap. “Olivia? What on earth?”

“I was volunteering at the animal shelter when this little guy was brought in and I thought he would be perfect for the two of you. He’s already housebroken. He has his shots. And it gives you a reason to get out of the house. Because sitting here all day is not good for recovery. You gotta get out. You gotta get back into life.”

Brook Lynn picked up the squirming puppy who began to nuzzle against her hand. “Olivia….”

“Say no more. And of course if you need help with this guy, your mother and I are nearby. And Leo too. He’s been calling him Panda by the way. You don’t need to keep the name but if you do change it, make sure to tell me first and I’ll break the news.”

With the white circles around his eyes and on his belly, he did look like a panda. “Chase?” Brook Lynn asked helplessly.

“It’s a very thoughtful gift Olivia…..”

“Chase! Brook Lynn!” Cody made his way into the house. “I found a visitor looking for you.” He gestured behind him only for Blaze to pop her head inside.

“Is this a bad time?” she asked. “I know it’s the last thing you want to hear but there’s an issue at Deception with my contract….”

“Ok say no more. You have business to discuss.” Cody took the rest of the supplies out of Lois’s hands. Both of the women hugged Chase and Brook Lynn in succession before leaving in the same whirlwind of energy they came in with. Cody went to stand by the door, while Blaze broke out into a giant grin.

“I honestly didn’t think that was going to work” she said as she sat down in a chair next to the couch. “You’d think I’d learn to not doubt Maxie at this point but…”

“Ok I’ve been kind of confused since the dog arrived so you’re going to have explain this to me a few times I think.” Chase pointed out as he sat back down on the couch, rubbing the top of Panda’s head.

Cody looked out the window, before looking at the assembled group. “Sasha and I overheard Mama Q and Miss C planning your return from the hospital. Including the pup here. They plan on using Panda here as an excuse to come and visit several times a day.”

“Ok that makes sense.” Brook Lynn nodded as she handed the puppy over to Chase.

“And they may have made some comments about teaching you how to take care of this little guy as an excuse to stay longer when you got home.” Cody continued before looking out the window again.

“So Sasha and Maxie asked me to come over here and pretend there was a contract issue, which there isn’t by the way so stop worrying.” Blaze explained. “They figured if that didn’t work your dad would at least insist they leave so that we could talk in private.”

“Don’t take this the wrong way,” Chase began. “But right now I love Maxie and Sasha.”

“So do I.” Brook Lynn dropped her head on his shoulder. “Just as long as you love me more.”

“Always.” he promised.

“Anyway I’m not staying.” Blaze promised. “Cody’s going to take me back to the Metro Court just as soon as…”

“I’m sure Mama Q and Miss C aren’t standing on the patio looking down and waiting for you to leave.” Cody finished. “I think we’re good but let’s give it another minute.” He turned around and smiled. “And Monica wanted me to let you know that the only other person who has keys to this place is Yuri. And he is under strict orders to never mention he has them. And if you don’t want the pup, I’ll take him up to the stables.”

Brook Lynn raised her head slightly and arched her eyebrow at Chase. “We’ve never discussed pets have we?”

“That is true.” Chase nodded, putting Panda on the ground. “We should at least talk about it first.”

“The offer stands. Any time. And if you need help taking care of him, let me know. I think we’re good to go.”

“Alright” Blaze stood up and went to hug both of them before grabbing her purse off the previously debated coffee table. She pointed a finger in Brook Lynn’s direction. “When you are ready for me to come back, you have my number.”

“Thank you both. And thank Sasha and Maxie for me too.”

“You got it.” Cody nodded as he and Blaze made their way to the door. “And Sash said to tell you the same thing. When you are ready for them, call them. See ya!”

With a cheerful wave Blaze closed the door behind them. Brook Lynn let out a sigh and returned her head to Chase’s shoulder. She felt Chase lean back against the arm of the couch, pulling them both down further into the cushions until they were both laying down with her mostly laying on his chest. “What exactly are you doing?”

“I believe you requested that on your first night home we do exactly this. Just sit and hold each other. I know it’s not home but I figured this way would at least be a bit more comfortable with your casts.”

She snuggled closer to him, wrapping her arms around his waist. “I’m just glad it’s just you and me. No one to interrupt us.”

“Except the puppy.”

“Except the puppy.”

Chapter Text

“So any progress on your plan?” Gregory asked, resting his hands on top of his cane as Tracy studied the counters left on the board.

“Don’t think you can distract me into losing this point.” Tracy lectured without looking up before she made her move. Pushing the dice towards him, she shook her head. “Brook Lynn is proving to be more stubborn than I thought. And that son of yours isn’t helping matter either with all his support and taking time off now instead of when she was in the hospital. If she was alone, I’d have cracked her by now.”

“I’m sure Harrison will be sorry he disappointed you.” Gregory remarked dryly.

“And of course the dog idea is a total disaster. No surprise there as the Bridge and Tunnel Club share a brain cell they would have realized that both of them could take the dog for a walk. Which of course they do.”

“It’s good for Brook Lynn to get out of the house.” He held up his hand in protest. “And have friends come over to see her. And Blaze stopping by to talk about work. It keeps her busy.”

“It keeps her hiding whatever it is she’s hiding.” Tracy countered.

“Or they just aren’t ready to tell us yet.” Gregory pointed out, continuing quickly before Tracy could interrupt him. “I agree that we weren’t told the entire truth but there is something to be said about letting them tell us when they are ready.”

“Tell me” Tracy rested her chin on top of her hand. “How did that work out for you?”

“I see your point. But Chase and Brook Lynn aren’t me. And neither one of them is that good of an actor.”

“Yes I saw the tapes of the Home and Heart rehearsal. But you are forgetting they fooled the entire town when they were pretending to be Bailey’s parents.”

“Different circumstances. Whatever is going on this time I doubt Peter August is involved given the fact he’s dead.”

“That’s not necessarily a given in this town.” Tracy sighed.

“Give it a little more time. We’ll keep an eye on the situation and if it gets worse…”

“Which it will.”

“If it gets worse, we will step in and intervene like the concerned and very much not nosy family members we are.”

“I am not nosy.”

“Maybe not but you also just lost the game.” Gregory smiled as he pointed to his counters on the board.

“You distracted me.”

“You distracted yourself.”

“Best two out of three.”

“You’re on.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Chase watched as Brook Lynn lifted herself out of the wheelchair and onto the sofa. He would help her in a heartbeat but he knew it was best for recovery to be able to do it by herself. Not to mention his stubborn wife would probably refuse to let him help her. At least with that task.

Hopefully that wasn’t going to be the case with everything.

“Where’s Panda?” she asked as she made herself comfortable on the cushions. “If he’s this quiet he’s probably destroying something.”

“I’m sure he’s fine. James and Leo are spending the night in the stables with Cody so Panda is up there.”

“Is that another silly guy thing I don’t understand?”

“Yes.” Chase joined her on the couch, handing her over a bottle of water before putting his own down on the coffee table. “And I also know that Dad and Tracy are playing backgammon tonight which will probably go on for hours. And I also know that Ned took Olivia out and with Robin visiting that Lois is over at Anna’s house.”

“That’s an awful lot of knowledge you have there Detective” Brook Lynn smiled at him.

“Which means we have a very rare opportunity tonight.”

“To watch a movie without having to take the dog out?”

“To talk with no chance of being interrupted.” He reached out and took her hand in his as she started to fidget. “Hey you know we need to.”

“Do we? I mean what’s it going to do but make us depressed and miserable?”

“I think we’re doing a pretty good job of being depressed and miserable already.”

“See?”

“Brook Lynn.” She let out a defeated sigh at his tone. “You know we need to talk. I agreed that the hospital was not the place to have this conversation but we now have a door that locks and we have the only set of keys. Except for Yuri.”

“God I wish I was on meds that I could drink with. This would be so much easier if there was wine involved.”

“I have a feeling we’ll be having this conversation more than once so we’ll probably get to test that theory out.” He rubbed his thumb over her cheek to wipe a few stray tears that had started to fall. “Talk to me. Don’t shut me out.”

“I am so sick of crying. It feels like that’s all I do anymore. Or all I want to do. Georgie called Maxie while she and Sasha were here and that made me want to cry. And that’s so stupid. Why should I cry over that?”

“Because we haven’t talked about what Dr. Lee told us?”

“Pretty sure that’s on the path of crying more. Not less.”

“But not talking about it at all isn’t an option. Not when it’s hurting both of us.” Chase hadn’t told Brook Lynn about the special essay Violet had written for her class about why her dad was her hero that she had asked him to read for her. He had barely gotten past the first few words before he felt his eyes began to water. Thankfully Aiden had come by and distracted her enough that she didn’t see him wipe the tears away.

Brook Lynn took in a ragged breath. “I know. I know you’re right. And I’m not trying to shut you out. I just…I just don’t know.”

“Don’t know what?”

“I don’t know how to say what I’m feeling. I don’t even think I could write a song about it. It’s just so huge and overwhelming.”

“Hey. Hey. Look at me.” Chase reached out and gently pushed her chin in his direction. “I don’t know what I’m feeling either. Can we be confused together?”

Brook Lynn chewed her bottom lip for a brief second. “You know when I talked with Elizabeth, she suggested talking with someone. A professional someone. She said it helped her after.”

“That sounds like a good idea. Maybe we can find someone at the hospital? Schedule around the same time as your physical therapy appointments?”

“That’s my super smart detective.”

“We’ll call tomorrow.” Chase promised. “But I just want to say one thing. I almost lost you. And I am so thankful that I didn’t. Whatever we discuss, whatever we decide, I need you to know this. I never want to feel like I lost you. Whatever else we decide, the one thing that is non-negotiable to me is that my future is with you. Everything else is details but that isn’t. Capisce?”

“You really have been hanging out with my mother too long. But yeah. Capisce.”

Chapter Text

Kelly Lee turned off the sonogram machine and turned on the wheeled stool to face them. To say this wasn’t exactly the way Brook Lynn had pictured a visit to this particular floor of the hospital was an understatement. She wiped away the cool, slimy gel that had been smeared on her stomach before readjusted her shirt. Leaning back against the examination table she closed her eyes and let out a breath, crossing her arms across her stomach. As she opened her eyes, Chase reached out and took one of her hands in his. “So” she asked quickly, trying to keep the tremor out of her voice. “What’s the verdict?”

“Pretty much exactly what Dr. Mitchell told you earlier. Everything looks to be healing nicely. I don’t see any signs of infection at the site of your surgery.. Now if you start developing a fever or sharp pains, get to the ER immediately. Don’t wait. But otherwise I will see you in about a month.” Kelly made a note in her chart before closing it and looking at the two of them. “I think I can guess the answer to this one, but patients always surprise me. Did you want to ask me anything about your options in regards to your fertility?”

That was probably a conversation that should wait until she could get through an entire day without crying, Brook Lynn thought. She didn’t trust her voice so she shook her head quickly instead. She didn’t imagine Chase’s grip on her hand getting tighter as she did so.

“I didn’t think so but I wanted to make sure. And whenever you are ready, so am I.”

“Thank you Dr. Lee” Chase smiled. Sometimes her husband’s ability to use his manners when she knew he wanted to scream and cry as much as she did amazed her. “I don’t think that’s a conversation we’ll be having for a while yet.”

“Again I understand. There’s no pressure here. But as your doctor I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t ask how you were doing emotionally.”

“Been better.” Brook Lynn answered. “I think that’s true for both of us. We…we have an appointment to see someone today. A therapist someone I mean.”

“Good. I think that’s a great decision. I know emotions can be overwhelming after a pregnancy loss so if your therapist thinks a medication may be helpful, let them know I am willing to discuss options with them. Especially since you’re still dealing with some pregnancy related hormones.”

“I’m sorry what?” Brook Lynn asked in confusion.

“It usually takes the body two to three months to re-regulate your hormones after a miscarriage. It probably isn’t too much of factor right now but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

“Thank you Dr. Lee.” Chase checked his watch. “We should probably start heading in that direction soon or we’ll be late. Unless you have anything else you need to discuss with us?”

“I certainly don’t want to make you late. You are fine to leave. Why don’t you call tomorrow to schedule another follow up?”

Even though she could handle transferring herself in and out of the wheelchair in most situations, getting down from the examination table gave Brook Lynn pause. For once she didn’t protest when Chase started to help her. “Ok tomorrow. We’ll call tomorrow.” She promised as she got settled back into the chair.

Kelly walked them to the door but stopped just before she opened it. “I know you’ve had a lot of bad news recently but don’t let that stop you from realizing today is all good news. Except the hormones but that will pass. Celebrate that. Doctor’s orders.”

Brook Lynn gave a mock salute and forced a smile on her face as the door opened and she pushed herself out. Now to go down the hall, wait for the elevator to take them up two floors in order to spill her guts to someone she’d never met. Plenty to celebrate.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Dr. Ann Jirkovsky smiled warmly at her newest two clients as she sat down in her chair. In her years of practice she had encountered many couples on their first day of counseling. She could probably count on one hand the number that had gripped each other’s hands as tightly as these two were currently doing. Well whatever brought them to her office it should be interesting.

She looked over the admission paperwork quickly before returning her attention to them. “So Chase. Brook Lynn. I’m Dr. J and I’ll be working with both of you. What we talk about and how we get to our ultimate destination is going to be up to you but I am here to help guide you and offer some perspective. Consider me a less annoying Siri.”

As jokes went, it wasn’t one of her best. It wasn’t even one of her worst. But it had the desired effect and got a nervous chuckle out of Chase and Brook Lynn’s stiff smile softened just a touch. “Good. Now that we have that out of the way, why don’t you tell me what brought you here today. Just the big picture will do for now. We’ll get into the nitty gritty details as we go along. You can tell me as much or as little as you like.”

The couple shared a glance before Chase let out a breath and looked at her. “Just about two months ago, Brook Lynn was in a severe accident.”

Brook Lynn tapped on her cast. “I don’t normally look this fashionable.”

Dr. J nodded. So Brook Lynn used humor to deflect. She’d make sure to write that down when she wrote up her session notes.

Chase continued. “It was a miracle she survived. But there were complications.”

“And I take it, these complications are why we’re all here today.”

Brook Lynn shut her eyes before she spoke. “Right before the accident we found out I was pregnant. We hadn’t told anyone yet. The crash caused a miscarriage. And then…”

Chase took over the explanation for his wife who Dr.J did not miss was starting to cry. “It also caused some internal injuries that means we may not be able to have children without assistance.”

The doctor nodded slowly. “First and foremost you have my sympathy. And I thank you for sharing that with me. I know it must be difficult especially since I have the impression you haven’t shared this with many people. Feel free to correct me if I am wrong on that.”

“My brother’s girlfriend is a nurse here. She was working in the ER when Brook Lynn was brought in. She knows but that’s…that’s it.”

“Well again I thank you for trusting me with this as clearly it’s very difficult for you to share this information. Am I correct that this is what brings you to my office?”

“Yeah.” Brook Lynn nodded. “It was suggested it might help. And sitting around my aunt’s house all day with my mother and stepmother hovering doesn’t seem to be helping so why not?”

If Brook Lynn thought she had hid the frustration in her voice, Dr. J would be glad to let her know in a few sessions that she had not. Instead she merely nodded and added another mental note to her list. “I’m glad you’re willing to give it a try. So why don’t we talk about how we’d like to structure our work together?”

Chapter Text

“Ok so I know this isn’t our normal coffee at the Metro Court” Maxie smiled as she put down the drinks and bag of baked goods from Eckerts on the coffee table in front of them. “But I’ll make exceptions for the moment.”

“And I’m assuming one of the exceptions isn’t me hanging around so I’ll go bother my dad and Tracy.” Chase grinned as he got up from the chair.

“You know one of these days Granny is going to realize you know how to play perfectly well. Or your brother will sell you out about being a better player than both him and your dad.” Brook Lynn pointed out as he kissed the top of her head.

“Maybe.” Chase shrugged. “But Dad won’t. And it’s a lot of fun to see how many times I can claim beginner’s luck when I beat her. Call if you need anything ok?”

“I will.” She waved as he patted Maxie’s shoulder in goodbye before leaving the guest house. Panda took up his now normal routine of making sure to sit at her feet whenever Chase left the room. She patted his head absent mindedly. The dog wasn’t going to move away from her until Chase returned. Chase swore he hadn’t trained Panda to do that but she had her doubts.

“Well I didn’t think the two of you could be more annoyingly in love but look at that. There’s a first time even for me to be wrong about something.” Maxie shrugged as she passed over the cup of coffee and started to spread out the various cookies she had picked out. “I have to say I’m a little surprised to see the chair still here.”

“What are you talking about? Of course it’s still here.”

“It’s just every time I’ve tried to come over lately you’ve been at the hospital for physical therapy. I think you’ve gone more now than when you were in the hospital. With all the hours you’ve been putting in lately I figured you were close to at least being able to use a walker or something.”

“Chase is pushing for one of those scooters where you can prop your leg up.” She was pretty sure if that was an option her husband would end up stealing it to have races with Leo and Cody behind the stables. “But no not yet.”

“You haven’t had a setback have you? I mean you know I want you to take all the time you need to heal but honestly if I have to play referee between Tracy and Lucy by myself for much longer. Not to mention Natalia. How you don’t end up strangling her on a daily basis I will never know. You’ll have to share your secret”

“I know. I’m sorry. And no. No setback. Just…taking longer than I want.”

The idea of scheduling the sessions with Dr. J around her physical therapy schedule had seemed like a good way to avoid questions she didn’t want to answer right now. But if people were noticing how long she was at the hospital, maybe they needed to rethink that strategy. If her mother and Olivia noticed then they would start to worry. And worry would lead to questions. And that was the last thing she wanted.

Maxie reached out and squeezed her knee. “Hey. I’m not complaining. Well not much. And I will always complain about Natalia but that’s just a given. You know everyone is just happy you’re ok right? We don’t care how long it takes you to get better. We’re just glad you are getting better.”

Was she? That was the magic question wasn’t it? Was she getting better? What did that even mean? How was she even going to know what that looked like now? Chase would probably point out that was the entire point of their sessions with Dr. J, to figure that out.

As if he could read her racing thoughts, Panda nuzzled against her leg for attention. Brook Lynn may have been skeptical about the puppy when Olivia first brought him down, but somehow the little ball of black and white fur had become a lifeline for her. He always seemed to know when she was upset or just needed to be distracted from her thoughts. One day, not any time soon she’d have to remember to thank Olivia and her mother properly for this particular gift.

Bending over, she scooped the puppy up and sat him in her lap. Scratching his head, Brook Lynn smiled sadly at Maxie. “I know. Believe me Chase tells me that every day. You know me. Patience has never been my strong suit.”

“Well maybe you should try listening to your husband.” Maxie teased. “You know before now I never thought you’d be a dog person, let alone one of those dog people.”

“What does that mean? One of those dog people?”

“First of all I always thought if you and Chase got a pet it would be a cat. You just both seem like cat people. But I will admit that this little guy is impossibly cute. Even if his entire existence has caused Georgie and James to decide that they need a dog. Thank you so much for that.”

“Just doing my job as the cool aunt.”

“Oh I know and believe me I look forward to one day returning the favor.”

Brook Lynn took in a breath and hoped Maxie didn’t notice it. She bit the inside of her cheek to keep her suddenly tear filled eyes from spilling over. Thankfully Maxie was too busy trying to get Panda to nuzzle against her hand instead of looking in her eyes.

“Anyways, Panda’s here and not that he’s not adorable” Maxie continued. “But I guess I never thought you two would be the type of people who treat their pets like their children. If this is what you’re like now, I can’t imagine what you’ll be like when you have a baby.”

She doesn’t know, Brook Lynn repeated to herself silently. She doesn’t know. She doesn’t know. She kept repeating the phrase until the urge to cry didn’t feel as overwhelming. Maybe she needed to call Elizabeth and invite her over. Maybe that would help once Maxie left. But right now she needed to change the subject. And quickly.

“So tell me everything about Natalia. I know she thinks she’s going to use this recovery time to get Allie’s career completely under her control again but we are not going to let that happen. What’s her latest angle?”

“Oh you will not believe it.” As Maxie launched into the saga of Natalia and her idea to use Allie in radio ads for cosmetics, Brook Lynn concentrated on petting Panda. She only had to hold out a little while longer and then she could collapse. She could do this. She could hold on.

She had to

Chapter Text

Following the instructions Brook Lynn had texted her, Elizabeth didn’t bother knocking on the door of the guest house and just walked in. She had vague memories of sneaking down here during sleepovers with Emily to see who could scare each other the most but the bright and charming place she saw now was a far cry from those bygone days. Not to mention she doubted Annabelle had ever been as tiny as the puppy eyed her warily upon her entrance.

“You weren’t kidding when you said he thinks he’s a guard dog.” She laughed as she dropped her bag by the door and made her way to the couch next to Brook Lynn. The tiny yips ceased as Brook Lynn absentmindedly shushed him. Panda retreated but only as far as Brook Lynn’s arm could reach.

“Chase swears he’s not training him to act like a police dog but I have my doubts. Once I’m fully mobile, I will catch him and he’ll pay.”

“Where is Chase? I thought he was going to be here.”

“I enlisted Gregory and Finn to get him out of here. At least for a little bit. He’s been great. Amazing honestly but he needs to get out of here and go further than the main house. He hasn’t watched a game with them since before the accident. It will be good for him.”

“So should we get right to whatever it is you didn’t want him to hear us talk about or should we do small talk first?” Elizabeth laughed at Brook Lynn’s startled look to her question. “Brook Lynn. You asked me here at a time you made sure your husband wasn’t going to be around. And you enlisted Gregory and Finn who will do anything for you including keeping him out of this place for however long you told them. No matter how obvious it will become that Finn is stalling. I figured you didn’t ask me over to talk about the latest gossip from Amy.”

“I gotta work on my poker face. I’m slipping.” Brook Lynn muttered half under her breath. “Ok fine. I mean it’s better to rip the band aid off right?”

“Depends on what that band aid is covering but in most cases, yes.”

“Maxie came over earlier today. And I know she didn’t mean anything by it but I nearly took her head off more than once and since my next appointment with Dr. J isn’t until next week, I figured I should talk with you instead.”

If there was one emotion Elizabeth could understand it was the urge to explode at Maxie but that probably wasn’t what was bothering Brook Lynn. “Well I’m glad you took my advice to see someone. Dr. J is great from what I’ve heard. I don’t think I’m in her league but I can listen.”

Brook Lynn closed her eyes, gathering her words. Elizabeth let the silence grow between them, allowing the other woman to take her time. She knew how hard it was sometimes to say certain things out loud, how they made what happened seem more real than anything else ever could. Other people had given her that space, so it was the least she could do now.

Keeping her eyes closed, Brook Lynn let out a breath. Elizabeth remembered that feeling all too well. That it would be somehow easier to say if you couldn’t look at someone’s face while you did it. It never really worked but everyone had to find that out for themselves she supposed. “Maxie was joking about how she didn’t think Chase and I would be those dog people. I guess the ones that treat their pets like their kids. And that if this was what we were like with a puppy she couldn’t wait to see how we’d be with a baby in a non-Bailey situation. The only reason I didn’t come up with a reason to leave was…” She waved her hands helplessly over her legs. “Well I can’t. I just had to sit there and listen to it until I forced an awkward subject change.”

“That bad?”

“I had to keep reminding myself that she wasn’t being hurtful. That she didn’t know. But it took everything I could not to just scream at her to shut up.”

“Ahhh.” Elizabeth nodded with sudden understanding. “You still haven’t told anyone. Finn is still acting way he always has with you and Lois hasn’t moved in so I figured they didn’t know but I was curious.”

“I’ve told people.”

“Who?”

“Dr. J”

“While I’m glad you told your therapist, you knew that wasn’t what I meant.” Brook Lynn let out a sigh leaning back against the couch. Elizabeth leaned forward to take her hand as Panda started nuzzling around her ankle. Elizabeth stifled a giggle. She had a suspicion Brook Lynn was one hundred percent right and Chase had to be training that puppy. “Look, you know I’m on your side. I don’t want you to do anything you do want to but you may not feel the need to scream at your best friend if people knew.”

“I can barely talk with Chase about it without crying. He had to tell our therapist about it because I couldn’t get my mouth to work. And the fishbowl.”

“Ok you lost me at fishbowl.”

“When I was in the hospital everyone was watching me all the time. And I don’t mean the staff. I know that was your job. But I could barely sneeze without my mother racing to get Dr. Mitchell to check on me. Or some other member of my family wanting to do something for me. And with that look in their eyes. If they know….the look comes back. And it won’t go away this time. Any time a kid is around that look is going to be there. I can not take that look.”

Elizabeth shifted closer to her, squeezing her hand. “That look sucks. But I don’t think it would go on for forever.”

Brook Lynn gave her a skeptical lift of her eyebrow. “Have you met my mother and Olivia? Olivia mentioned Foster once to Lucky like a decade ago and she still apologizes to him every time he visits his mom. That look would not go away.”

“Ok you have a point. Look no one, not even me can tell you how to manage this. That’s for you and Chase to decide. But I do think that you should consider something that might make you feel better.”

“Breaking our families’ hearts isn’t going to make anyone feel better.”

“Not right away.” Elizabeth allowed. “But in the long run they could help you. And that would make you feel better.”

Brook Lynn shook her head. “I can barely talk about it. I can’t. I just…I just can’t.”

“It’s your call. But if you do, I’ll be right there beside you both.”

Chapter Text

“I still don’t understand.” Brook Lynn protested from her spot on the couch. “We came here for couples’ counseling. This…” She waved her hands to indicate the empty spot on the couch. “Is not couples.”

“You did.” Dr. J nodded her head with a soft smile. “But I find that sometimes it is beneficial for both parties to also work through some issues individually as well as together. Especially when each are reacting to trauma.”

“Trauma” Brook Lynn scoffed as she folded her arms in front of her defensively. “You make it sound like we were in a war or something.”

“Well the or something is correct. The accident was a trauma. A physical one. And you both see and deal with the physical manifestations of that daily. From what you’ve told me so far I know you to be a very independent person so I can imagine that not being able to move without assistance isn’t easy.”

“It’s getting better. They think my ankle is almost healed and then I could move up to crutches. Chase is still pushing for one of those scooters though.”

“I am glad you’re making progress. That means the physical reminders of your trauma won’t be present which can help some people to move forward. You’ve expressed frustration with your mother and stepmother’s tendency to hover. The more they see you improve physically I imagine the less that will happen.”

“Right. I keep forgetting. You haven’t met them.”

“True.” Dr. J laughed. “But when people don’t see the outward signs anymore, they assume you are fine. That you are healed. But what they don’t see is the psychological trauma. That’s what you and Chase have come to me for. And while we can and will continue to work on your shared trauma experience and how you can move forward with that, I want us to work on your personal trauma.”

“But the accident is something that happened to both of us. And the fact I can’t have children is happening to both of us.”

“Yes it is but it doesn’t mean you are experiencing it in the same way.” Dr. J leaned back in her chair. ”For example, you just said that you aren’t able to have children.”

“I know?”

“You said you instead of we.”

“Well it is my issue. I’m the one with the issue.”

“Yes the injury happens to you but it affects both of you. And I believe if I remember correctly that you were told that children would require assistance, not that it was impossible.”

“That was just fancy doctor talk to make me feel better. Which news flash doesn't work.”

“Or it was simply the truth. There are advancements in fertility procedures all the time.”

“And there are couples who still can’t. And what if that’s me?” Brook Lynn’s voice began to waiver. “What if we were to do all the procedures and still nothing. Wouldn’t that hurt more? I couldn’t do that to Chase. I can’t be the reason he loses a dream of his. Not when I’ve almost cost him so many dreams in the past.”

“And your dreams aren’t important?” Dr. J asked as she leaned forward slightly in her chair. “Do you not want children?”

“No. That’s…that’s….”Brook Lynn closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She was unsurprised to find her eyes watering yet again. Maybe at the next Deception meeting she could pitch a social media campaign all about how their waterproof mascara would stay in place during the worst crying spells. Lord knew she had been testing it enough in the past few months. “Chase and I have always talked about kids. But never anything concrete. Just in a some day in the future way. We never talked specifics like a plan.”

“Was that because you were unsure of wanting children?”

“No that’s not it. I mean I never really thought about kids with anyone but Chase. I knew that was going to be a part of our future. I just didn’t know it was going to be so soon and now….” Brook Lynn let out a sigh before she started picking at an imaginary spot on the cushion of the sofa. “Now it’s just over. I barely started to wrap my mind around the fact I was pregnant and then bam. Literally.”

“Literally indeed. Brook Lynn you suffered a loss. A loss that is painful and difficult for most women who experience to talk about, let alone those who experienced complications in the aftermath. A loss that is compounded by the fact that very few people know about it. Plus you are really mourning two losses. And that second loss, the fact you have complications when it comes to your ability to have children now, that affects you differently than it affects Chase. Just like siblings will grieve the death of their parents differently. And that’s normal. What I can help you do in these sessions when it’s just us to work through this loss so that when we meet with Chase, you can explain how you feel your loss differently. And I will be working on similar things with him in our sessions. And when we come together? That’s when we can work on the ways you can help each other and how you can grieve together. Without hurting each other further. But to get to that point, you need to start to deal with what you are feeling.”

Dr. J paused before reaching out to gently take Brook Lynn’s hand in her own. “Right now I imagine that feels overwhelming and scary. But I can help it be less scary. Less overwhelming. I can’t take the hurt away. Just like some injuries are permanent, some losses will always be there. But I can help you find ways to move forward.”

Brook Lynn nodded. “Just not feeling stuck would be great. Or feeling the need to yell at people when I know they are just being nice”

“You know I find the anger that comes with grief always catches people by surprise. Especially when a loss is sudden. Believe it or not, the anger is a good thing. It’s healthy.”

“So when I snap at Chase for changing the channel I can tell him you said it’s ok?”

“No but that was an excellent try at using humor to defuse the situation. You do that a lot you know.”

“I do…not.”

“You’ve made some kind of joke in every session we’ve had. Usually when we’ve started talking about something you aren’t ready to talk about.” Dr. J smiled as she leaned back in her chair again. “I’m just pointing it out. You do with that information what you will.”

“I thought therapists were supposed to point these things out and tell you what you’re supposed to do with it.”

“Oh no. We just give you the map. You have to find the trail out of the woods.”

“A hiking reference? No wonder Chase likes you.”

Chapter Text

“Look I know you’re glad to graduate out of the chair but that is not an invitation to push yourself.” Dr. Mitchell fixed her best severe look at Brook Lynn as she fitted the new walking boot around her left leg. Her right ankle was now sporting a smaller air cast. Chase could already hear the complaints during the car ride back to the Quartermaines’ how ridiculous she looked and who could actually overdo anything when they walked with the speed of a turtle but he didn’t care. And he knew secretly she didn’t care either. The fact they were going to leave the wheelchair when they left the physical therapy room today meant they were one step closer to getting back to normal. Getting back to their regular life.

Or whatever that looked like now.

He still wasn’t back at work, but with these new casts that was only a matter of time. As was returning to their apartment. Which reminded him, he needed to go by there and make sure none of the evidence of their pregnancy celebration was still there. Allison was supposed to come by tomorrow to work on a song in the solarium. That might be a good time.

It wasn’t much but he could do that much. It was one of the things he was working on with Dr. J. Finding the small things he could do and concentrate on that. Maybe then he wouldn’t feel so helpless all the time.

“Ok now stand up. Slowly” Dr. Mitchell motioned for him to come over and hold Brook Lynn’s hands in his own. Once he was in front of her, Brook Lynn for once in her life followed the directions she had been given and stood up slowly. It was a little unsteady due to the weeks of being the wheelchair but neither one of them could hide their smiles as she found her balance. Dr. Mitchell slipped a pair of crutches under Brook Lynn’s arms while Katie, the physical therapist they had been working with moved quickly to adjust them to the proper height for Brook Lynn.

“I know the crutches are just one more thing, but until you regain some strength in those legs, using them is doctor’s orders.” Dr. Mitchell continued. “I’m telling you now if you don’t use them you’re going to end up right back in that chair.”

“And you’ll earn surprise home visits from me.” Katie chimed in as she finished adjusting the second crutch. “As much as I know you worship the ground I walk on.”

“I hear ya.” Brook Lynn rolled her eyes before letting go of his hand to test her weight on the crutches. “No offense babe but it will be very nice to not have to depend on you to get a drink of water.”

“I was tired of waiting on you anyway.” He teased her, ignoring the you are so going to get it look she shot him. Take time to savor the small victories, Dr. J had told them during their last session and this, this was the biggest victory they had in a long time. He was going to savor every second of it.

“So when does the rest of the family expect us back for the celebration they think I don’t know about?” She asked as she started to slowly hobble forward with the crutches.

“I’m sure they are all over there now driving Tracy crazy.” Chase smiled. “I’m supposed to text Finn when we’re leaving.”

“No chance I can convince you to not send anything and just make them wait?” She stopped just in front of him.

“Nope.” He happily kissed her on the cheek, the first time in weeks he didn’t need to bend over or be sitting down in order to do so. “And you know if we tried that, they would just have my dad call you and you would not be able to say no to him.”

“I can’t help it that you and your dad look like pathetic puppies when you beg. I just can’t look at you both when you do that. It’s embarrassing.”

“That means she finds it impossible to say no to.” He joked over her shoulder to Dr. Mitchell and Katie.

“Go ahead and tell them we’ve got probably another 30 minutes of work here to make sure everything is fine and then you’re outta here for now.” Katie suggested as she pointed towards the other end of the room. “Now let’s see how you do heading to the parallel bars.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Brook Lynn!” Sasha smiled from where she was pulling down more serving pieces in the butler’s pantry as Brook Lynn came into the kitchen. Coming down, she placed the platter she had been looking for on the island. “Do you need anything?”

“Just a break from everyone for a minute.” Brook Lynn smiled as she managed to sit down at the table. Katie had warned her she would feel tired after a few minutes of standing and had told her to sit down as often as she could. Of course every time she went to sit down in the solarium, she had been met with immediate stares of concerns and that fishbowl feeling was back. So she had taken advantage of Violet and Leo’s dramatic re-enactment of meeting a snake during their horseback riding lessons today to slip off to the kitchen.

Sasha nodded sympathetically before pushing her a plate of carrots. “I probably shouldn’t say this but your family can be a bit much so feel free to hide here for as long as you like.”

“Thank you. You know you don’t have to stay here the whole time. You can come and join us. Cody too.”

“I know I don’t. Olivia and Lois told me the same thing. But I like cooking and being here means I don’t have to answer certain questions.”

“Oh.” Brook Lynn nodded sagely. “You mean questions about what’s going on with you and Cody. How serious is it, what do you think your future together will look like. Those questions.”

“Close enough.” Sasha sat down with a smile.

“Just a tip from me to you? If you hide from them to avoid those questions? Eventually my mother and Olivia will start bringing them up in front of Cody. And trust me, way more embarrassing.”

“No it’s not that.” Sasha laughed. “It’s just….” She looked towards the entrance to the kitchen before leaning forward. “I know this is going to sound crazy but you know how Olivia swears she’s psychic?”

“Yes. I mean she gets lucky with her guesses sometimes but I don’t think she actually has the gift.”

“Well lately she’s just been giving me these looks like she knows something but she’s not sure what it is. And I’m just not ready to tell everyone if she does know it.”

Brook Lynn tilted her head to the side. “Wait so that means there is something going on. Something you and Cody are keeping under wraps? Or does Cody not know yet either?

“No Cody knows. And it’s a good thing it’s just…not the right time.”

“Not the right time….” In a flash Brook Lynn realized what her friend was hinting at. Her range of vision narrowed to a spot on the table. Suddenly it was hard to form words. “Sasha….are you pregnant?”

Sasha nodded as Brook Lynn felt the room start to spin around her. “We don’t want to tell anyone until after the first trimester. Which will be in a few weeks so not much longer to go on that front.”

She could feel herself plaster on a smile. Almost finished with the first trimester. Like she would have been if not for the accident. “That’s…great. I’m really happy for you Sasha.”

“Thank you. I’m really excited….Brook Lynn are you ok? You just went really pale.”

“I’m fine. I think I just overdid it today. Would you mind to get Chase for me? I think..I think I need to go back to the guest house.”

“Sure. No problem.” Sasha ran off to find Chase. Brook Lynn concentrated on her breathing to keep herself from crying. She had to wait till she was safe behind the door of the guest house. She couldn’t break down here.

Chase must have been looking for her because it didn’t take him long to show up with a concerned Sasha behind him. He knelt down in front of her. She could tell by the look on his face he wanted to ask a million questions but wasn’t. “Hey. Sasha said you want to go?”

“Yeah. I just overdid it. Sasha, can you tell everyone goodbye for us?”

“Sure.No problem.”

Brook Lynn nodded and looked into Chase’s eyes knowing he could see the tears starting to well up in them. She didn’t care that she was probably scarring him to death right now. Right now she just needed to get out of there.

Chapter Text

Chase was going to give her precisely five more minutes to tell him what was going on before he started asking Brook Lynn a lot of questions he was pretty sure she didn’t want to answer. Sasha may have believed her story about just overdoing it at the party, but Chase didn’t. Brook Lynn didn’t have a chance to overdo it between Olivia, Lois and to a lesser extent his own father. But as they walked across the lawn to the guest house, she wasn’t moving any slower than she had when they had arrived back from the doctor. She wasn’t stopping to catch her breath or even reluctantly asking him to wait. She was however taking the kind of deep breaths she took to keep herself from crying.

It was a sign of how worried he was that he didn’t even care that if he pointed that fact out she would make fun of him for the rest of their lives.

As she got herself settled on the couch, he shut the door behind them and shooed Panda into the kitchen. There was no chance he wasn’t going to give her the option of to pay attention to Panda over answering his questions. Coming back to the living room, he sat down next to her. “Ok. You want to tell me what’s really going on?”

Alright so he lied about the five minutes.

“I told you. I just overdid it and got tired all of the sudden.”

“I might believe you if you were looking at me instead of the coffee table.” Chase said dryly. Brook Lynn closed her eyes and bit her lower lip, a sure sign he had made his point. He took her hand softly in his and squeezed it. “Hey. Look at me. No shutting each other out, remember? You were fine when you went to the kitchen and then a few minutes later you’re white as a sheet and wanting to go home. I’m worried ok? What’s going on?”

She looked over at him and he could see her internal debate playing out on her face. Should she tell him or not? He kept his eyes on her face, hoping that she would realize that he wasn’t going to just give up on this. She let out a small sigh and Chase schooled himself not to smile as he realized she was going to tell him what he wanted to know.

“I’m not trying to worry you. I’m fine. Physically.”

“Good at least we agree on that. What happened?”

“If I tell you, you have to promise me you won’t tell Sasha.”

Chase fought to keep the confusion off his face. What on Earth did Sasha have to do with this? “Ok I won’t tell Sasha.”

Brook Lynn closed her eyes before taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly. “I was talking with Sasha about why we were both hiding in the kitchen. And it turns out she’s trying to avoid Olivia because Olivia has you know her gift.”

Chase nodded. “Ok I’m with you so far.”

“Sasha…well Sasha and Cody have news. News that they don’t want to share just yet. And Olivia always has her antenna up for this kind of news so Sasha was staying in the kitchen so she wouldn’t have to answer certain questions.”

“Brook Lynn, what kind of questions?”

“About her and Cody’s future. And if she’s pregnant. Which she is.”

Chase felt as if he had been punched in the gut. “How…how far along is she?” he asked slowly.

“Almost out of her first trimester. Which is why she hasn’t told anyone yet.” Her voice cracked on the last word as the tears she had been trying to keep back started to fall. “And I’m happy for her. I am. I just…I couldn’t….”

“Hey. Shhh.” Chase pulled her into his arms and held her close. He understood. Of course he did. It was a good thing he knew now so he could work on his own reaction when Sasha told him the news. The last thing he wanted was to take this from her after everything with Liam and Brando. No one deserved to be happier. Except his wife. “You made a good call. Leaving. That was the right play.”

“I know I freaked you both out and I didn’t mean to but I just..I couldn’t think of anything else and I had to leave.”

Chase leaned back enough so she could look at his face. “Hey. It was the right call. Sasha will probably come down tomorrow to check on you so we should prepare for that but she’ll be fine.”

“She probably will. But I can deal with that then.”

“Deal with what then?” Tracy’s voice from the doorway caused them both to pull apart.

“Granny. It’s polite to knock before entering someone’s home.”

“Technically it’s my family’s property.” Tracy closed the door behind her and stopped in front of the couch. “And when my granddaughter disappears from her own celebration for mysterious reasons I want answers.”

“Tracy.” Chase stood up, keeping himself between Brook Lynn and her grandmother. “She just overdid it. Sasha told you that.”

“Yes she did. But unlike the rest of the family I don’t believe it. Brook Lynn you were completely fine, if understandably annoyed at your mother for most of the night. And then in five minutes you need to leave? No. I am tired of being left in the dark and I want answers.”

“You have your answers Tracy.” Chase said evenly as Tracy sat herself down on the chair.

“No I have the answers you both have told me which I know is not the full story. Now I’ve come down here..”

“Uninvited.” Brook Lynn pointed out, her voice strained with trying to keep her emotions in check.

“I don’t need or require an invitation to make sure my granddaughter is ok.”

“I’m fine.” Brook Lynn started to stand up, balancing herself on the crutches. “So you can leave.”

“You are not fine when you are trying to figure out a way to deal with Sasha of all people. That girl would apologize to a mouse for not having it’s favorite kind of cheese available to steal.”

“Everything is fine with Sasha.” Brook Lynn insisted.

“It’s not fine if one conversation with her has you leaving your own party.” Tracy pointed out.

“Tracy. Brook Lynn just overdid it.” Chase started to explain. “Everything is fine.”

“I might believe that if you weren’t crying as well when I came in.” Tracy waved her finger in a circle in his direction. “Try again.”

“Grandmother, this isn’t the time.” Brook Lynn snapped. Chase looked at his wife’s face and could tell she was seconds away from exploding at her grandmother. He put his hand on the small of her back to try to remind her that he was right there with her.

“And when will it be time? Never? Try again. What’s going on?”

“There is nothing going on.” Brook Lynn said in a clipped voice.

“No. There is. You have been keeping something from the rest of the family since the accident. And you” she pointed at Chase. “You’ve been helping her. Normally I would admire such loyalty but currently it’s inconvenient. Now you are going to tell me what is going on And you’re going to tell me now.”

“You want to know what’s going on Grandmother? You really want to know? Fine if it will get you to leave. I left because I found Sasha is pregnant and hasn't told anyone yet. And I had to leave because all I could think of was the accident took away my ability to have children. There. Now you know. Now leave.”

Chapter Text

If it was possible for someone to storm out of a room while still getting used to using crutches, Brook Lynn managed to do it. It probably helped that Tracy was still sitting the chair looking dumbstruck at Brook Lynn’s outburst. She even somehow managed to slam the door of the bedroom behind her. At some point later tonight Chase needed to remember to tell her how impressive and dramatic her exit was. Both sides of her family would be proud.

He took a deep breath and turned his attention towards Tracy. “I believe you were asked to leave.”

“And there’s no way you actually think I’m going to do it so let’s just skip this part.” As always it didn’t take Tracy long to find her words. “Shouldn’t you be going to make sure she’s fine?” she asked as he sat back down.

“She expects me to make sure you leave.” He pointed out rubbing palm against his eye.

“Then you better start talking. We both know I’m not leaving until I get some answers.”

“Tracy, just come back tomorrow. Let Brook Lynn have a chance to calm down and then all three of us can talk together.”

“If I were to do that, I have the distinct feeling that tomorrow there would be a sudden need to go on a road trip now that you don’t need to use the wheelchair. Nice try.”

Sighing, Chase leaned his head back against the cushions and closed his eyes. “I really don’t want to talk about this without Brook Lynn.”

“And when she comes out to see if I am gone I’ll explain that you put up a valiant fight but I brow beat it out of you.” Tracy leaned forward and touched his shoulder. It was far more gentle than he would bet anyone would think Tracy Quartermaine was capable of being. “And if I understood my granddaughter correctly, then what she said affects you as well. And whether you like it or not, we are family. So that means you get to talk to me.”

Maybe it was because of the roller coaster of emotions the day had brung. Maybe he was ready for someone other than Elizabeth and Dr. J to know everything. Maybe it was because he knew Tracy and he knew she wasn’t going to leave until he started talking. Maybe it was a combination of all three. But Chase knew when he opened his eyes the entire story would spill out.

Looking at the remote on the coffee table , he let out a breath. “About a week before the accident, we found out Brook Lynn was pregnant. We didn’t know how far along or anything like that we were waiting for our first appointment with Dr. Lee. That….didn’t happen”

He stole a quick glance at Tracy and saw her sitting quietly, waiting for him to continue. She may have thought he couldn’t see it, but he could see the tears start to well up in her eyes. He had become something of an expert in spotting that behavior these past few months. “You remember Elizabeth said she had internal bleeding? One of her Fallopian tubes ruptured and the only way to stop the bleeding was to remove it. Without going into a lot of details, basically we aren’t able to have children without help.”

Chase let the silence sit between them as Tracy processed the news. He had meant what he had told Brook Lynn countless times. If they didn’t want to tell anyone, it would be fine. But he couldn’t deny he felt a slight shiver of relief at the reality that someone else knew what was going on.

“Who else is aware of this? I assume Elizabeth since she was there but anyone else?”

“We started seeing a therapist so she knows. And obviously the doctors. But that’s it.”

“Well that explains that then.” Tracy nodded crisply, taking a steadying breath as she did. She moved herself over to the couch and squeezed his upper arm. Like grandmother, like granddaughter he thought. “I am so sorry. For everything. And that you have been going through this alone when you did not have to. You have to know everyone would want to be there for you both.”

Chase nodded. “We do. We just….didn’t know where to start.”

“Yes. I can see that. Well you’ve started now.”

“You’re still here.” Brook Lynn’s voice from the doorway of the bedroom caused them both to turn aroud. “What part of leave did you not understand?”

Tracy stood up and made her way over to her granddaughter. “Everyone in this room knew perfectly well I wasn’t going anywhere after that dramatic if understandable display.” She stopped in front of her and held her arms open. “Stop pretending you’re still mad at me and let me hug you.”

There was a second where Chase was honestly unsure what Brook Lynn was going to do, but then her shoulder relaxed a fraction and she leaned forward allowing Tracy to wrap her arms around her. He let out a breath he wasn’t aware he was holding as Tracy rubbed her back in comfort.

“I am still mad at you.” Brook Lynn said as they broke apart, wiping tears from her eyes. Chase went to stand next to her, pulling her closer to him.

“Whatever you need to tell yourself.” Tracy clapped her hands together. “Now the therapist was a good idea. But what you really need is the support of your family. Now everyone that loves you is up at the house right now, currently worried about your disappearing act. We can go back up there and explain everything.”

“No. I can’t.” Brook Lynn shook her head.

“Why not? You told me.”

“Because you made me mad. Any other time I’ve tried to talk about this I end up in tears. And if I do that in front of Ma and Olivia, not to mention Dad…and I don’t want Sasha to feel bad. It’s not her fault but she’ll think it is.”

“Ok I see your point. But this is not something you can just keep to yourselves.” Tracy tilted her head in thought. “What if I tell them for you?”

“What?” Brook Lynn asked in confusion as Chase just shook his head.

“Brook Lynn, while your attempt has been commendable I’ve known you were hiding something since the hospital.” She met Chase’s eyes. “So has your father by the way. And while the rest of the family and your friends were content to write off your odd behaviors as a reaction to your physical injuries my dear girl you aren’t going to have that to hide behind much longer. Sooner rather than later there are going to be questions.”

“I know I’m going to regret saying this but she’s right.” Chase sighed. “And I know you don’t want the fishbowl but I also know you hate keeping things from your parents. It’s your call and I’ll back you. You know that. But I think it would help you to talk to your mom. Not to mention Maxie.”

Tracy reached out and grabbed one of Brook Lynn’s hands. “You’ve both carried this on your own for too long. Let me do this part for you.”

Brook Lynn looked up at him, with tears in her eyes searching his face for an answer. He could read her like a book. He knew what she wanted and he wanted it as well. He nodded in agreement to her unasked question.

Taking a deep breath, his brave wife turned back to look at Tracy. “If I agree to this, they can’t come down here tonight. I can’t do it. Tomorrow but not all of them at once.”

“I will make sure of it. If I have to send Yuri down to sit outside your door all night. And don’t think he wouldn’t do it.”

Chase had no doubt Yuri would probably do exactly that of his own accord once he heard their story. Brook Lynn bit back a teary laugh as well. “Ok then.” She said. “Tell them.”

Tracy patted her cheek. “That’s my brave girl.”

Chapter Text

“I’m telling you there is something wrong.” Lois’s Brooklyn accent only got thicker the more worried she got. “Brook Lynn does not admit it when she overdoes something. She just continues to do it until someone stops her.”

“Everything is probably fine.” Gregory said calmly as Tracy came into the solarium. “Harrison has probably fussed over her all day and she’s most likely just humoring him.”

“Gregory is right. I just went down to the guest house and everything is fine.” Tracy clapped her hands together before turning her attention to Violet. “Violet, I just came from the kitchen and Sasha is going to need a lot of help with cutting the cake. She asked if you would mind helping her.”

Violet looked over at Finn, getting his nod of approval before running off to the kitchen. With the young girl gone, Tracy took a deep breath to steady her nerves. She promised Brook Lynn and Chase she would do this for them and she would. She just wasn’t entirely sure how she was going to do this.

“You’re sure everything is fine?” Olivia asked with Lois nodded along. Normally the two of them looking like those bobble head things Scout kept in her room would just annoy her, but knowing what she knew now, Tracy couldn’t blame them. “Maybe we should go and check just to make sure.” Olivia added, turning towards Lois.

“There is no need to check on them. As I said everything is fine with Brook Lynn. Physically at least.” Tracy put her head to her hand as the rest of the room gave her a confused look. “I will explain. But you need to know two things. One everything I’m about to tell you Brook Lynn and Chase both gave me permission to tell you. Two, that permission was only given with the expectation that everyone gives them until tomorrow before talking with them about it.”

“Mother, if this is your way to make us not worry, it’s not working.” Ned pointed out.

“Tracy, maybe you should just tell us.” Finn suggested from his spot on the couch next to his father.

“I will but I need those two to sit down and to understand that they meant it. They don’t want to talk about this with anyone until tomorrow.” Tracy pointed between Olivia and Lois. “I have Yuri on standby. All I have to do is say the word and he’ll be in front of their door all night to keep people away.”

“Tracy I will not be sitting down until you tell me what’s going on with my daughter.”

Tracy held up her hand in mock surrender. “Fine. But I meant what I said about Yuri.” She took a deep breath and let it out slowly before looking at the room of expectant and concerned eyes looking back at her. Elizabeth nodded her understanding and came over to stand next to her. Good. She was going to need all the help she could get. “As Gregory knows, I’ve had my suspicions for a while now that we were not told everything about the extent of Brook Lynn’s injuries after the accident. And after an exchange of now regrettable words, I know that I was correct.”

Elizabeth took a step forward. “When Chase first came to the ER after the accident, I went to make sure he understood he wasn’t going back there with her and to see if anyone needed to be called. He only asked me to call one person. Dr. Lee.”

Tracy continued as Olivia gasped with recognition and understanding started to dawn on Finn’s face. “Apparently they had found out a week or so before that Brook Lynn was pregnant. They were waiting to say anything until they got to the first appointment which never happened.”

“Oh my poor baby.” Lois covered her mouth with her hand before turning to Ned who pulled her into a hug. “Nedly, our little girl.”

“There’s more.” Elizabeth said softly. “The internal injuries that she needed surgery for? Dr. Lee went up to the OR with us to see if there was anything that could have been done. There wasn’t but there was a complication. The accident caused one of her Fallopian tubes to rupture. The best course of action was to remove it.”

“Wait. Remove it? I don’t understand. What does that mean?” Olivia asked.

“Chase didn’t give me a lot of details, but I am sure Elizabeth is better able than I am to give them. But if they want children in the future, which we all know they do, they will not be able to do so without assistance.”

As Olivia and Lois started to cry, Ned and Gregory looked at each other in stunned silence. Finn sat there shaking his head in what Tracy assumed was sympathy. “Why…why didn’t they say anything?” Finn asked.

“They didn’t know where to even start.” Elizabeth said as she went to squeeze his shoulder. “Every time I’ve talked with Brook Lynn about it, she’s barely gotten through the conversation without crying. Not that I blame her.”

“The fishbowl.” Gregory said quietly with understanding.

“You knew the entire time?” Finn questioned Elizabeth.

“It was only because I was there. And it wasn’t my news to tell.” She explained. “I’ve mainly just been a listening ear when Brook Lynn needs one. Like when she had you guys take Chase to watch a basketball game. And I know she and Chase are seeing a therapist.”

“Well that’s all well and good but what she needs is her mother.” Lois declared. “She shouldn’t have had to carry this alone all this time.”

“I agree and I told both of them as much.” Tracy assured her. “But I can’t exactly blame them for not wanting that child who has not graduated medical school to tell us.”

“Dr. Mitchell is an excellent doctor.” Finn and Elizabeth said in unison.

“I’m going down there.” Lois declared.

“Lois, don’t. Give them tonight to regroup. They knew I was coming up here to tell you so they aren’t going anywhere. If you go down there tonight, it’s not going to end well. For either of you. They both know we are all here for them. They just need time.”

Gregory stood up, leaning more on his cane than he had earlier in the day. “Tracy is right. When your private medical situation becomes public knowledge, well time to adjust privately is the best thing.” He took a deep breath before motioning to Finn. “Hamilton I think the best thing we can do for your brother right now is to go home and come back tomorrow. Tracy I’ll call you tomorrow and figure out a time to come by.”

Tracy nodded as Finn followed his father’s suggestion and stood up heading towards the kitchen to collect Violet. Elizabeth picked up her purse from the corner of the sofa where she had left it when she arrived. “I really am very sorry for all of you.”

“Elizabeth.” Ned stopped her and Gregory from their journey out of the room. “Thank you. For being there for her.”

“Of course.” Elizabeth smiled and waved goodbye and she helped Gregory out of the room.

“What kind of mother am I that I didn’t know my daughter was hurting like this?” Lois wondered as Olivia went to hug her.

“You’re a good mother.” She assured her friend. “She just didn’t know how to say it.”

“And this is exactly why she asked that you not come down until tomorrow.” Tracy pointed out. “I know you all want to go down there but it will be more about them managing your feelings then about them. Tomorrow everyone will be in much better control and ready to talk about this situation.”

“I don’t often say this but I think Mother is right.” Ned said sadly. “Let’s give them some space tonight.”

“Fine. But I will be down there first thing in the morning. With breakfast.”

“I am sure they will expect nothing less.” Tracy nodded.

Chapter Text

Every light in the guest house was off, save a few candles Brook Lynn had lit in the bedroom. It wasn’t for ambiance or setting any kind of mood. It was mainly so Chase didn’t trip over something she left on the floor because she was trying to convince her mother coming down here tonight wasn’t worth it. The last thing they needed was both of them with bum legs.

The door opened and Chase made his way in, keeping the flashlight in his hand low. He had rolled his eyes at her when she had insisted they turn off every light after Tracy had left but true to form he had indulged her idea. Even if she could now say it was a little extreme. Not that she was going to mention that to him. She’d never live it down.

“He’s not really out there is he?” she asked as Chase carefully made his way across the room.

“You already knew the answer to that question when Tracy made the suggestion.” He pointed out as he stretched out on top of the covers.

She winced. She had indeed known Yuri would be sitting outside their door, probably with orders to stay there all night if necessary. “Go tell him he doesn’t need to do that. Don’t you two have a bond you can use?”

“I tried.” Chase shrugged as he turned off the flashlight and put it on the nightstand. “He said and I quote Detective The Empress told me to stay and so I will stay. I do not make her mad.”

“Ok first of all one day someone is going to say that little nickname of yours in front of her and she will find out it was your idea.”

“She’ll probably like it and demand that we refer to her as that on a full time basis.”

“Ok you may have a point about that and second of all your Yuri impression is frighteningly accurate.”

“Thanks. I was thinking one day I’ll need to go undercover as a Belarusian butler so it will come in handy.” Chase leaned to one side and reached up to tuck a piece of hair behind her ear. “How are you doing?”

“The truth?”

“Preferably.”

“I have all these thoughts racing through my mind. I hate that I told my grandmother that way. I’m glad someone knows. That it should have been me telling everyone not her. That I’m glad she’s the one who did because I know I would have just cried through the whole thing.” Brook Lynn let out a sigh and laid down, resting her head on Chase’s chest. He wrapped his arm around her shoulder, lightly tracing his finger down her arm. “I thought Dr. J said this step would bring less confusion, not more.”

“I think she said we wouldn’t know what happened until it did.”

“It’s out there now.” She said quietly. “Our families know. I should probably talk to Maxie before she hears it from someone else.”

“That can wait till tomorrow.” Chase kissed the top of her head. “The only people who possibly know that we aren’t related to are Cody and Sasha and they wouldn’t say anything without talking to us first.”

“God.I don’t want Sasha to feel bad. She should be happy about her news. I need to talk to her.” Brook Lynn started to sit up but Chase tightened his grip on her shoulder and kept her in place.

“Again, that can wait until tomorrow. And you know Sasha will understand. Everyone will. Right now I’m more concerned about you.”

She wrapped her arm around his abdomen and they sat there in silence, the candlelight flickering next to them. “I just…I don’t want anyone to treat me differently. Or look at me like they’re going to burst into tears at any moment.”

“I hate to break it to you, but you have met your mother and Olivia right?”

“Thin ice buddy. I know they all will mean well but….there’s just nothing they can do. There’s nothing we can do. It just makes me feel stuck. And Helpless.”

“Yeah I’m not a big fan of those feelings either.” Chase agreed. “But if I am being totally honest?”

“Which you pretty much always are.”

“I’m glad they know. I think in the long run it will be better.”

“Is there any way to fast forward to then? Because I would love that.”

“I so wish we could.” Chase looked down at her and smiled. “So I’m guessing the odds of us getting any sleep tonight are slim to none.”

“Not any time soon at least.” Brook Lynn nodded. “Normally I’d say movie night but I know my mother would somehow know the TV had been turned on and rush down here.”

“To find Yuri sitting at the front door waiting to turn her away.”

“God I hate that he’s out there. Are you sure you can’t get him to leave?”

“Positive. But you want to know something I realized the other day?”

“That the scooter idea is absolutely terrible and you should let it go?”

“No. But these are blackout curtains. Which means no light in…and …”

“No light out.”

“Perfect for a movie night that we don’t want anyone to know about.” He ran his fingers through her hair. “What do you say? I’ll even be nice and let you pick the movie. And if you play your cards right, I’ll get up early tomorrow and get us and Yuri donuts.”

“That sounds perfect. But don’t think for a second that I don’t realize you mean picking a Star Wars movie”

“I said no such thing.”

“Not in so many words but I know you.”

“Then you also know how much I love you. And how I know that whatever happens tomorrow? We’re going to get through it. Together.”

“I love you too.” She leaned up and kissed him softly. “And I know I’m not able to get through any of this without you. Tomorrow or the day after that. Or the week after that. Or the month. Any length of time you got.”

“Then I guess it’s a good thing we’re stuck together for life isn’t it?”

“I guess so.”

Chapter Text

9:30 am. That was the precise minute the knocking on the front door of the guest house started. Brook Lynn shook her head and sent a quick text to Chase letting him know that she had won the bet and he owed her the biggest donut he could find. There was only possible answer to who would be coming over at this exact moment. It wasn’t too early. It wasn’t too late. It was, as both Grandma Gloria and Mrs. Falconari had told her countless times as she grew up, the perfect time to call on someone.

“It’s not locked.” Brook Lynn called out from her spot on the couch. If this was going to happen she might as well be comfortable.. “You can come in”

“There’s my baby,” Lois cried as she came through the door with Olivia close behind her. It was probably only the fact that Panda got up from his usual spot by her leg to go towards the open door that her stepmother remembered to shut the door behind her. “Oh let me give you a hug.”

As Lois wrapped her arms around her, Brook Lynn allowed herself for the first time in months to completely relax in her mother’s arms. She needed this more than she cared to admit. It was all out in the open now. Almost everyone important to her knew the whole story. She didn’t have to hide her feelings anymore. And even though she had sworn she wasn’t going to, she felt herself start to cry.

“That’s it Brookie. You just let it all out. I’m here baby and I’m not going anywhere.”

“And neither am I.” Olivia chimed in from behind her, rubbing her back gently.

Brook Lynn pulled back just enough to wipe the tears from her cheek while Lois smoothed her hair back. “I’m sorry.”

“You’re sorry?” Lois asked incredulously. “What do you have to be sorry for?”

“That I didn’t say anything. I should have told you and I didn’t.”

“Hey. That doesn’t matter. We know now and that’s all that’s important.”

“But…”

“No buts.” Olivia shushed her. “Listen to your mother.”

“You and Chase told us when you were ready.” Lois shrugged her shoulders. “Maybe not in the most traditional way but you told us. And where is that husband of yours anyway? He’s supposed to be taking care of you.”

“He is. He’s getting donuts.” Brook Lynn let out a tiny sigh and leaned her head back against the cushions. “I don’t know what to say right now.”

“You don’t need to say anything. What you need to do is listen. Neither one of you is doing this alone anymore. So whatever the both of you need? The collective we that is your family is going to make it happen. If that means driving you to your therapy appointments or helping you find the right specialist, we will make it happen.”

“Specialist? Why am I seeing a specialist?”

“Well not now but in the future. When you’re ready to have kids. Elizabeth and Tracy said you would need help and you’ll get that help.”

It was back. The gnawing feeling in the pit of her stomach that showed up any time she was with someone that didn’t know the whole story was back. She should have known better. This was her mother. Of course at some point talk would turn towards children. They had barely gotten through the wedding reception without being asked about that particular subject. They had laughed about it at the time but now. But now….

“But that’s for later.” Olivia waved her hands. “Right now, we’re here to make sure to pamper you.”

Brook Lynn managed to smile, even though her stomach was still churning. “And how is that different from the last few months?”

“Well now it’s a reason to do it some more.” Olivia shrugged, leaning down to pet Panda.

“And don’t think you can stop us.”

“Oh I know better.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Chase let out a chuckle as he read the text from Brook Lynn while he waited for his order to be finished at Eckhart’s. He wasn’t at all surprised that his wife had correctly predicted the right time they would show up. He was only surprised they had actually listened to Tracy and not come down in the middle of the night. Well as far as he knew. He was pretty sure if they had come Yuri would have taken care of it and never bothered to say anything.

“Chase.”

There was no mistaking Sasha’s stricken voice. Ok so clearly she knew. That was one question from last night answered. He turned around and offered a smile. “Hey Sasha.”

“I’m so sorry.” She stepped closer to him, tightening her grip on the loaf of French bread in her hands. “I didn’t mean to upset you guys last night. Or make things worse for you. I just…I just…”

“Hey.” He put his hands on her shoulders to calm her down. “You didn’t know. No one did. You didn’t make anything worse. Our therapist will probably tell us tomorrow that you helped make things better in the long run.”

“You know I’m supposed to be making you feel better.” Sasha pointed out. “Can you just let me feel bad about this?”

“Not when you have nothing to feel bad about. You didn’t know and you deserve to be happy about your news. I’m happy for you. And so is Brook Lynn. She was worried last night about ruining your news.”

“I should go talk to her. Or I can make you guys something.”

“We’re fine.” Chase reassured her as he spotted the counter attendant coming with his box of donuts. “Besides I think we’re going to be a little overwhelmed with visitors today.”

“Hence the sugar rush.” Sasha nodded.

“Exactly.” Chase took the box from the teenager and mouthed a thank you as they went back to help another customer. “And considering her mom and Olivia are there now, I better get this back there pronto.”

“Ok so not today but sometime this week I am sending you dinner. I won’t take no for an answer. It’s the least I could do.”

“You don’t have to do anything. But I will never turn down your cooking.” He started to make his way out the bakery before he stopped and turned around. “Hey Sasha?”

“Yeah?”

“We really are happy for you and Cody. Especially after everything you’ve been through. I know it doesn’t look like it right now but we are.”

Sasha walked up and hugged him, carefully avoiding the box of donuts. “Thank you.” She said softly. “And I wish there was something I could say to you both but I know….”

“Yeah you do.” Chase nodded as they pulled apart. “Dinner later this week?”

“You bet.”

Chapter Text

Sitting down on the stone bench Edward had put in years ago, Brook Lynn closed her eyes and inhaled the smell of her great grandmother’s roses. One of the best advantages she had found with her graduation to using crutches was she was now able to just be alone. Completely alone. Not that she ever tired of Chase’s company. Or even Panda’s, even if she would never admit it. But after what felt like a parade of non-stop visitors to the guest house in the past two days, she had finally reached her limit.

She supposed Chase had as well. While she was barely restraining herself from snapping at their well meaning friends and family members, Chase kept finding reasons to hurry people out of the guest house. Twice he had succeeded in getting them to the door, only to open it and find someone else standing there. It was something straight out of a sitcom, only neither of them were laughing.

When a rare moment of privacy happened, Chase went for a run, taking Panda with him. Remembering the run he had taken her on to clear her head when her dad had thought he was Eddie Maine, she figured he would be gone for longer than his usual route. So she took the opportunity to hide away in one of her favorite places. If Chase came back earlier than she expected, it wouldn’t take him long to figure out where she was.

“This is just a part of the tunnel. The light is coming.” She said to herself softly. “The light is coming.” Dr. J had taught her the mantra in her last individual session to use when she was feeling overwhelmed. It seemed like as good of a day as any to try it out. To say she had been skeptical when Dr. J suggested it would be an understatement. But to her surprise it really did seem to help feel calmer and more in control.

The unmistakable sound of footsteps on the pathway made her eye fly open, only to find herself looking at her father-in-law standing a few steps away from her.

“I’m sorry I didn’t mean to startle you.” Gregory apologized. “Yuri told me he saw you come this way. I can come back.”

“Don’t you dare.” Brook Lynn patted the empty space next to her on the bench. “I’m surprised it took you so long to come by.” She remarked as Gregory settled himself.

“I’ve talked with both of you by phone several times.” Gregory patted her knee gently. “And I figured the fishbowl might be a little intense right now.”

“Just a little.” She nodded before shrugging her shoulders. “I know they all mean well but….”

“Yes the but.” He nodded before smiling conspiratorially. “You know before my current medications meant no alcohol, I used to keep a mental count of how many sympathetic looks I got and then I would take that many sips of wine.”

“Oh there’s a reason why you’re my favorite father-in-law.”

“Only father-in-law.”

“Hey with my family history, you never know.” She joked. “You know you didn’t have to stay away.”

“Oh I know. Harrison told me the same thing when we talked yesterday. But I figured giving you some time was the best thingI could do. From one fishbowl resident to another.”

“As lovely as your thought was, the fishbowl feeling never includes you.”

Gregory smiled at her before looking around at the roses. “So this is the famous rose garden I’ve heard so much about. I always thought Tracy was exaggerating but it really is beautiful.”

“Well with Granny it’s always a good idea to assume she’s exaggerating. But never about Great Grandmother.”

“She sounds like she was a very special woman. Just like her great granddaughter is.”

“You and Chase planned that. He said almost the exact same thing.”

“Well my point still stands. Everything I’ve heard about how strong and wonderful Lila Quatermain was, I see in you. Which is why I know that no matter you and Harrison’s future holds that you will both face it the same way you are doing now. Together.”

Brook Lynn threaded her arm through Gregory’s and rested her head on his shoulder. “We should have told you.”

“I of all people understand waiting until you are ready to share bad news. The important thing is that we know now. I believe someone told me that not so long ago.”

“Oh, it's not fair using my own words against me. That’s a dirty trick and now I know who Chase learned it from.”

“Regardless, I’m going to tell you something I know you haven’t heard in the last few days. We are probably going to drive you crazy and try to make you talk about things you don’t want to right now. And you will probably want to scream at us that we don’t have any idea about what you’re feeling. And you’ll be right about that. But just remember we love you. And even on that day that you yell at all of us, we still love you.”

“Is this your way of saying I should feel bad for yelling at my grandmother?”

“Well knowing Tracy, she probably deserved it. But I know she understands.” He tapped her knee with his finger. “And don’t think of apologizing to her either. She won’t accept it and she forgave you two seconds after she realized what was going on.”

They sat in silence, enjoying the fragrant air and the companionship. Brook Lynn smiled softly to herself. Not only did she luck out in the husband department, she didn’t do badly when it came to fathers-in-law either. “Did Finn bring you or did ride share it out here?”

“Finn and Violet are out with Elizabeth and her boys tonight. So ride share.”

“Chase is out on a run but when he came back, we were thinking about ordering dinner. How do you feel about Chinese?”

“I think it sounds wonderful. As long as you let me pay for it.” He nudged her shoulder. “Think of it as my gift from one fishbowl to another.”

“There’s no one I’d rather share a fishbowl with.”

“What about Harrison?”

“Hush. Our secret.”

Chapter Text

Even though there was no reason to keep having her sessions with Dr. J after her physical therapy, Brook Lynn was finding comfort in the familiar pattern of it. The hour working the lower half of her body so that someday soon she’d be able to walk with no assistance at all and they could move out of the guest house and back into their own place. Then the hour trying to get her mind to a place where she didn’t feel like crying every five minutes. She wasn’t positive either was really working but she wasn’t about to pass up the opportunity to be told every week she was making progress.

“There you are!” Maxie’s familiar exasperated voice sounded behind her. Looking over her shoulder, Brook Lynn saw her best friend hurry to catch up to her. “You know for someone that doesn’t move that fast, you are very hard to catch.”

“Your motivational skills, as always, are untouchable Maxie.”

“Well when you aren’t avoiding me, I’ll give you the nicer approach. Which honestly isn’t our thing anyway.” Maxie stopped right next to her before motioning with her hand for Book Lynn to start walking again.

“I’ve not been avoiding you.” Brook Lynn protested. “You were at the house last week.”

“And yet since then you’ve not returned my many calls and you’ve started responding to my texts with emojis.” She wagged her finger in Brook Lynn’s direction. “I know you don’t think I forgot about when you were sending Chase emojis cause you were avoiding talking to him.”

“Oh my God. I told you to stop taking his side about that.”

“I take your side in everything else.” Maxie pointed out. “I have to throw him a bone a time or two.”

“What are you doing here Maxie?”

Maxie shrugged. “Georgie and James had check ups scheduled. They wanted to visit mom after and I figured this was a time you couldn’t avoid me.”

“For the last time I’m not avoiding you. The last week….it’s been a lot.”

“I know. Which is why I’m not mad at you about it.” Maxie stopped herself in front of Brook Lynn. “Look all I wanted to say is that I understand why you didn’t want to say anything and that I’m sorry. And that I’m here for you. However you interpret that last part. “

“Maxie…”

“Your my best friend. This is what the job description says. So if that’s walking with you to therapy or taking over your next movie night with Chase by making sure it’s all slumber party classics then that’s what I’m going to do. Even if it’s going to get our nails done and never speaking of it after this moment. Whether you like it or not. I’m going to annoy you with my support.”

Brook Lynn smiled, shaking her head. “I expect nothing less.”

“Good. Now we’re on the same page.” Maxie fell back to Brook Lynn’s side. “So after this appointment what are we going to do?”

“Maxie you have Georgie and James with you.”

“And they are with my mom who’s going to take them to riding lessons with Cody. Dad is with Bailey Lou. And Lucy is visiting Serena so I was able to clear my schedule which means I have a free afternoon. And as your boss…”

“Not even close to being true.”

“I know you aren’t working. So we’re going to have a besties day.”

“What does that even mean?”

“I don’t know but it sounded good didn’t it?”

“It sounds like Lucy’s idea of reaching the teens.”

“Rude.” Maxie gently slapped Brook Lynn’s upper arm.

“But not untrue.”

“Look I may have also run into Chase downstairs and told him I would take care of getting you back home after we had some bonding time and he may have left. So if you want to get home you’re stuck with me.”

Sometimes when she stopped to think about it, Brook Lynn couldn’t quite believe the twists and turns her life had taken since coming back to Port Charles that led her to having a best friend like Maxie Jones. “I guess I can be stuck with you. If I have to be.”

“Of course you do. You didn’t really have a choice.” Maxie tilted her head to the left. “So this Dr. J. What do we think of her and is she helping?”

“I…I like her. She’s listened to me cry enough and hasn’t gotten sick of me which is good. As far as helping? It’s hard to tell. She keeps saying we’re on a journey but I don’t have a map or a clue of where we’re going. But I don’t think I’m crying as often as I did at first so that’s a good thing right?”

“You’re damn right it’s a good thing. So I think we should do another good thing that I know you haven’t done in awhile. Mani-pedis and then we’ll go shopping. And I can tell you about Lucy’s latest idea she texted me this morning.”

“Does she understand what vacation means?”

“No. I think we need to discuss ways to break her phone every time before she leaves town. Anyway she thinks she should have her own Tic Tok where she explains everything she’s been busy creating at Deception.”

“Don’t take this the wrong way but I am so glad I am no longer your social media director. This has disaster written all over it.”

“Of course it does. It’s Lucy and social media. There’s no way we come out a winner in this. And that is before I tell you what she thinks is the most brilliant part.”

“I don’t want to know. I really don’t want to know.”

“Oh if I have to know you do. She thinks the next appearance on Heart and Home? She should be “ tic toking in.” And no I don’t know what that means either.”

“I think it’s a good thing you told me this before therapy. Because if you waited I would go back and do another session immediately.”

“You see why we need mani pedis and shopping.”

“You know I would have said yes to that even without Lucy being Lucy.”

“Yes but I figured it wouldn’t hurt to sweeten the pot.”

Chapter Text

Chase handed over the popcorn bowl over to where Brook Lynn was sitting on the couch. “You do know this is our most ridiculous argument.” He pointed out as took the bowl without glancing over at him. “And that’s saying something considering we’ve argued over which Bill and Ted movie is better.”

“Bogus Journey is superior. That is just an unarguable fact. I can not help the fact that you are completely wrong.”

“You aren’t really mad that I don’t think I should go back to work yet. Brook Lynn.”

“We agreed. Once I was able to move on my own you would go back to work. I can now move on my own.” She finally looked over at him and rested her hand on his cheek. “I love you but you do not need to babysit me anymore.”

Chase took her hand in his and kissed the top of her knuckles. “One it’s not babysitting. I want to help you. I want to take care of you. In sickness and in health remember? Second, we never had an agreement. We just agreed to talk about it more once you were able to move on your own. This is discussing further.”

“You are really sounding like Dr. J right now. I am not sure that’s a good thing.”

“Nice try at changing the subject. And I didn’t say I wasn’t going back to work. I said I want to talk to Anna and Mac about doing part time for a bit. At least until you have one good foot.”

“That doesn’t help the not babysitting argument. Just for the record.” She let out a sigh and rested her head against the back of the couch. “It’s just getting out of the chair has been the goal and I thought that maybe everything would start to feel normal again. But everyone is still hovering and if you don’t go back to work, it just feels like I haven’t made any progress whatsoever.”

“Hey. Hey. Hey.” Chase leaned forward to kiss her forehead. “You’re making progress. We both are. I think you may be making more progress than me. Truth?”

“Of course. Mainly because you’re a horrible liar.”

Chase rolled his eyes affectionately. “You may be ready for me to go back to work but I’m not ready. I’m still worried about you.”

“You just said it yourself, I'm making progress. Not as much as I want. But apparently progress.”

“And you just said that you didn’t think you are. And I know how you get when you’re impatient. And frustrated. That’s when you start making plans. Plans that you don’t always think through.”

“Excuse you. My plans have always worked out.”

“Our next joint session with Dr. J we’ll talk about your denial.” He bit his lip to keep from laughing at the scowl she shot in his direction. “Look I understand about wanting to be further in your physical therapy. You know I do. There’s a reason why they all groan when I show up at your sessions. I don’t want you to get impatient and do something that will cause you to injure yourself again.”

“Look, yes I’m frustrated but I’m not going to do anything to hurt myself further. Not that I could. I mean we both know that the second you go back to work the space my mother and Olivia have given us is gone.”

“And that’s my other worry.” Chase nodded. “My dad called me today. He mentioned a fishbowl.”

“I’m going to have a talk with him. As long as my mom and Olivia…exist…that feeling is still going to be there. I just have to get used to it.”

“But not right now. Not when you’re still healing. Not when we’re still healing. Even if I’m working part time I’m still here to run interference.”

“But that’s not fair to you either. I mean this is part of our life now right? Isn’t one of the reasons we’re going to therapy is to accept it? Isn’t starting to do things that are normal part of that?”

“I know I sound like a broken record here but I don’t think there’s a rule book. We need to do what feels best for us.” Chase stroked his finger over the top of her hand. She may think she could hide her feelings from him but she couldn’t. She was always an open book to him. Every time a family member or friend stopped by since the news was finally shared, he could see Brook Lynn steel herself. He could see a little bit of the sparkle he so loved in her eyes dim. If there was anything he could to stop that, he was going to do it. “It doesn’t feel right to leave you here alone with everyone.”

“I won’t be alone. I have Panda. And I still say you’re training him to be an attack dog. I don’t care how many times you deny it. And as weird as it is to say it, there’s also Granny. She never misses the opportunity to throw people out. Or she’ll send Yuri to do it. And Yuri would probably do it just for fun.”

She did have a point about Tracy. He might not ever see eye to eye with her, but he could not deny she loved Brook Lynn and would do anything to help her. And if there was one thing that he knew Tracy enjoyed it was ordering Lois and Olivia around. “Ok I have a suggestion.”

“If it’s we watch The Rookie so you can critique the baseball action it’s a no.”

“We already agreed on Excellent Adventure but good try. What I was going to say is that we continue to discuss this but we change the location.”

“Yeah I don’t think we’re going to convince everyone it’s time for us to move back to our apartment any time soon.”

“Yes that’s a fight for another day. But what I was going to suggest is we go some place.Just the two of us. Cody can watch Panda. It will give us more time together, without the fishbowl feeling. And I think it may help with the whole space thing.”

Brook Lynn looked at him with interest. “I’ll never say no to going away with you. You have a place in mind?”

“You just leave it to me babe.”

Chapter Text

“”That is what we need more of in Port Charles.” Brook Lynn declared as Chase opened the door to the cabin that had been their home base for the last week. When he had first explained his idea to borrow a friend of his from high school’s cabin in Gatlinburg, Tennessee for the week she had asked him if he had forgotten who he had married. She did not do camping and the closest she ever wanted to be to roughing it was the outside heaters running out of fuel on Valentine’s Day. But Chase had insisted it was fine and she would love it. And damn it, if she didn’t indeed find the wooden cabin charming. Not that she would want to live there or that she changed her mind on camping in general. Just this particular cabin, well she could see the appeal.

“Free trolley service around town?” Chase guessed as he closed the door behind them, putting the bags from their trip to the outlet centers down on the floor.

“No. I mean yes that we should have that too but what I was referring to was pancake houses that serve breakfast all day. The money a place like that from the students at PCU alone during finals week? I should talk to Granny about that when we get back.”

Chase chuckled as he sat down on the couch in front of the sliding glass door that looked over the Great Smokey Mountains. “Why don’t you sit down and join me over here before you plot your way into world domination? You’ve been on your feet almost all day.”

“And I’ve told you I’ve been fine. All the more reason you should go back to work when we get home.” She pointed out as she sat down next to him, laying her head on his shoulder. Chase draped his arm over her shoulder and played with her fingers, twisting her wedding and engagement rings with his.

“It’s not the physical stuff that I worry about.” Chase paused and looked down at her. “Ok, not all that I worry about.”

“What are you talking about?” Brook Lynn sat up, reluctantly letting his arm slip off her shoulder in the process.

He rubbed her cheek with his thumb. “Do you know how long it’s been since I’ve seen you get a random idea and immediately start planning on how it could work? Or get so distracted by trying to figure out what song was playing in the restaurant that you almost forgot to eat?”

“You agreed it was a really great song.”

“Brook Lynn, it's not about the song. It’s about you. You haven’t been this…relaxed in months. The last time I saw you smile this much was before the accident.”

“Aren’t you supposed to be happy on vacation?”

“Yes. But this is different and you know it.” Chase took her hand in his and squeezed it gently. “I know we’re still processing everything but I don’t want to leave you alone when you are tense and unhappy all the time.”

“It’s not all the time.” She protested. “I’m not tense with you.”

“Nice try but we both know that’s not true.” He traced his thumb over her knuckles. “It not be as frequent but you’ve been tense. And unhappy. Don’t think I didn’t notice you didn’t deny that part either.”

“Of course I’ve been unhappy. I think that’s normal after everything.”

“I agree. I’m not saying it’s wrong.”

“Then what are you saying? Because it sure sounds like that.” Brook Lynn pulled her hand back, turning her face away from him. She knew things had been going too well. Why did she agree to this? If they were back home, at this point half their family would be around them keeping them from talking at all.

Ok if she said that last part out loud it would absolutely sound like a problem.

“Clearly I have some things to work on with Dr. J when we get back.” Chase said softly to himself. “Let me try this again. Brook Lynn I don’t want to leave you alone if my being there will make things less tense for you when it comes to being around everyone else. I mean I’m the pushover right?”

Despite herself, Brook Lynn smiled. “That’s why you’re easier to get along with.” She sighed and turned back to face him. “I love that you would want to do that but that’s not fair to you. Especially because what makes me sad and tense around my mother specifically? It would be the same for you.” Brook Lynn took a deep breath to steady herself. “When Ma and Olivia came over that first day? They started talking about how they would help us in any way we needed when we decided we were ready to try for children. Any specialist. Any treatment.”

“Babe. Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because I was doing so well about not crying every single hour. And you had donuts.”

“They were good donuts.” Chase nodded. “But I wish you would have told me. I’d told them to stop.”

“They seem to realize on their own it was too soon to talk about. And they haven’t brought it up since. But now I know they are thinking about it. And if they brought it up once, they could do it again.”

“And so you get tense.” Chase concluded.

“So I get tense.” Brook Lynn agreed. “I love my family but tact? Waiting to say something? Isn’t something either side values very much.”

“Really? Never noticed.” Chase deadpanned.

Shaking her head, Brook Lynn shoved him in the shoulder. “I know they were only trying to be supportive. And I know this is just…part of reality for us now. And I love that you want to make this easier but there isn’t a way to do that. Not yet at least anyway.”

Pulling her closer to him, Chase kissed her forehead. She settled herself down next to him again, resting her head on his shoulder. They sat together as the sun started to dip behind the mountains. After playing with the ends of her hair for a moment, Chase finally spoke.

“Ok I propose we go to dinner like we planned and maybe go ride that giant ferris wheel. We’ll find some terrible movie streaming somewhere and in the morning we’ll talk about going back to work over pancakes. Because apparently everything is better with pancakes.”

“That sounds perfect. Especially the pancakes.”

Chapter Text

Sitting on a park bench, Brook Lynn strummed her fingers against the planks of the wood. It was Chase’s first day back at work and she had promised him she wouldn’t just sit in the guest house and avoid everyone all day. With Yuri’s help, she had gotten Panda and slowly made her way to the dog park. So here she sat, watching the puppy tear around the fenced in green space with abandon while she tried to figure out just what the rest of her day was going to look like.

Despite the fact that she felt fine, she was just moving slower than normal, both Maxie and her grandmother had pulled rank on her at Deception saying she wasn’t allowed to even think about work until she was actually on two feet again. Brook Lynn would have thought Tracy of all people would have insisted that she get right back to work as soon as she was able. But this was apparently her grandmother’s wisdom from the loss of Luke. She needed to take her time and feel her feelings, not run from them or bury them as Tracy had done.

She wasn’t trying to run from her feelings or bury them. Well not often but that was what therapy and Dr. J were for. No, she was bored. And she needed something, anything to focus her mind on. It was making sure Chase returned to work but now that he had? She was starting to fear she really was going to become one of those dog parents.

Letting out a groan, she tilted her head forward and rested it in her hands. “I just used the phrase dog parents. Oh my God how did that happen?”

“Brook Lynn? Are you ok?” Allison’s concerned voice caused her to sit up.

“I’m fine, just being dramatic.” Brook Lynn smiled as Allison sat down next to her. “What are you doing here? I thought you were doing a writing session today”

“I was and I did.” Allison sighed as she sat back against the bench. “I couldn’t get anything going so I thought a change of scenery would do me good and I found you. And since you are the most amazing manager ever…”

“Flattery isn’t going to get you out of your deadline.” Brook Lynn pointed out. “We were lucky we got the first extension.”

“I know. I know. And I’m working on it. I swear. Just not the best day. And so when I got a text from a certain former duet partner asking me to see how you’re doing today, I took the opportunity for a break.”

“Oh he did not.” Brook Lynn groaned. She should have known Chase would pull something like this. It was very sweet but he did not need to pull their family and friends into keep Brook Lynn busy duty.

“Oh come on, it's sweet and you know it.” Allison nudged her in the shoulder. “And make faces all you want I know you. You secretly love that he did that.”

“I’m not saying you’re right but if you were? We are never telling him that.”

“Of course.” Allison laughed.

They fell into a comfortable silence as they watched the dogs play together and listened to the distant sounds of children playing at the nearby playground. It was the first time they had spent together since the truth about the accident had come out and that was probably why Chase had reached out to Allison over Sasha or Maxie. She had been sympathetic and supportive like everyone else, but Allison had very much refused to look at her as if this was the saddest thing in the world. She looked at her like she knew Brook Lynn was going to survive this. Because she had survived before. They both had.

OK maybe Chase’s idea to have Allison check on her was more brilliant than sweet. But she was still never going to tell him that. He’d be impossible to live with.

“Brook Lynn…” Allison said slowly. “Have you been writing lately?”

“No. I’ve tried a few times but I just can’t find the words. I don’t know, maybe after more therapy…”

“Or a partner.” Allison started to bounce in her seat with excitement. “We should write together.”

“Alli…”

“No hear me out. It’s perfect. Working together keeps me on track. We’re both amazing writers on our own but the stuff we worked on together for the duet? I know you don’t want to admit it but it was way better.”

“There were some improvements.” Brook Lynn allowed. “Look I appreciate what you’re doing….”

“Coming up with a brilliant idea? I mean it’s what I do.”

“But you don’t have to keep checking up on me. No matter what Chase texted you. I promise I’m fine.”

“Girl, I know you’re fine. I have eyes.” Allison reached over and grabbed her hand. “And Chase didn’t need to ask me to check up on you. I mean he did obviously but that’s not the only reason I’m here. You and I? We’re bonded, remember? “

“I remember.”

“And because we’re bonded I know that music is how we talk. And I am all for therapy but you need to express yourself in music. And I need to write songs for this album to show the label I’m worth the money they are paying us.”

She wasn’t wrong. Music had always been where Brook Lynn had felt the safest expressing her feelings. But the emotions she was feeling right now? She could barely understand them let alone write about them. Even with Allison’s help she didn’t know if she could even begin. Or once she started she might not stop the emotions from spilling out over the page.

She wasn’t entirely sure which option scared her more.

“Look, music is our thing. That’s how we relate. It’s how we survive. It’s how we both found our voices years ago.” Allison squeezed her hand tightly. “Let’s do this. Together.”

“I haven’t been able to write anything. And if I was able to, I'm pretty sure it would be way more depressing than what the label is wanting.”

“So we’ll say it’s a new direction. I’m in a Taylor Swift space of inspiration. We’ll figure out a 90s hit to cover to make them happy. We’ll come up with something. But all that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do it. The Brook Lynn I know would be all about it.”

“What if I don’t know that Brook Lynn anymore?”

“Then this is the way to find her again. She’s still in there. She didn’t disappear after everything Linc put her through, this isn’t going to stop her.”

Brook Lynn took a deep breath, willing herself not to cry. There were exactly two good things that came out of her years with Linc. The bar fight that brought Chase into her life. And the woman sitting next to her. “What if we try it and I can’t do it? I don’t want to let you down.”

“Impossible. You’ve never let me down yet. It’s not going to start now.”

“I’m not saying yes.”

“Yet. You aren’t saying yes yet. But you will.”

Brook Lynn laughed. “Yeah. You’re probably right.”

Chapter Text

The dock was always one of her favorite places on the grounds. It was here and only here that she could admit to herself that maybe Chase had a point about the beauty of nature and how camping was a great way to enjoy it. Brook Lynn sat on the chaise lounger with her songwriting book open on her lap. Panda snoozed on the deck boards next to her. It was probably one of the last warm days before the fall temperatures really started to kick in and she had decided to work on her songs out here before she was stuck in the house for the foreseeable future.

Well maybe not as stuck as she had been, but still it was a few more weeks at least before she’d be cleared to start driving again. And probably longer before she or Chase felt comfortable with her driving by herself. The very thought of driving near the intersection where the accident had happened made her heart start to race. She had been working with Dr. J on ways to manage her anxiety but she wasn’t convinced that the techniques would work. Nor was she in a hurry to try them out.

“Oh. Brook Lynn.”

Turning her head, she spotted Sasha standing next to the boathouse with a startled look on her face. It was the first time they had really seen each other since the day of the party. Sasha had avoided coming by the house, sending food with Cody or Willow and Brook Lynn had avoided going to the house. Mainly to avoid the rest of her family. Judging by the startled deer in the headlights look Sasha was currently giving her, it had been intentionally on Sasha’s part as well.

Especially now that the other woman was just undeniably pregnant.

“I didn’t realize you were here. I was just getting something Cody left the other day. I can come back later. I didn’t mean to disturb you.”

“Sasha.” Brook Lynn took a breath. She could do this. “You don’t need to go. Stay. We haven’t talked since…well we both know the last time we talked.”

“I told Chase to tell you I am so sorry about that.

“He told me.” Brook Lynn patted the chair that was next to her as Panda opened one sleepy eye and immediately closed it again satisfied Sasha was no threat. “And you didn’t know. There’s no need for you to be sorry. You were happy about the baby and you should be.”

“Still I never meant to hurt you guys.” Sasha started to sit down, her hand on her belly for support as she did.

“I know.” Brook Lynn smiled softly as Sasha settled herself in the chair. “So is it a boy or girl?”

“Brook Lynn….” Sasha said quietly. “We don’t need to talk about this. We can talk about other things. Like I can fill you in on all the Deception gossip.”

“Maxie and my grandmother can do that. And do. All the time. And I know you want to talk about it. Well I guess you do. That’s all people seem to think I wanted to talk about when I was pretending to be pregnant with Bailey Lou.”

“Yes but we don’t need to talk about it.”

“I appreciate what you’re doing. Really Sasha I do. But it’s not like I can pretend the accident didn’t happen. Or that you’re pregnant. And according to my therapist, accepting reality is healthy.”

“Yeah I remember that part of therapy too.” Sasha nodded. “So are you doing mantras or journaling?” She gestured towards the open notebook on Brook Lynn’s lap.

“This is actually work. But don’t tell my grandmother because she’ll expect me to be at Deception first thing tomorrow morning.”

“Your secret is safe with me.” Sasha laughed. “Although from what Maxie has said,if you don’t come back soon she may kill Tracy and Lucy before setting fire to the office for good measure.”

“That bad?”

“I believe Scotty’s main job these days is playing referee. And Felicia’s excuses as to why she needs Lucy to come with her are getting really obvious. Yesterday I heard she said needed help matching a tie with Mac’s uniform.”

Brook Lynn groaned. “Maxie is going to hold this over my head until we die isn’t she?”

“Probably. But I at least get to experience it second hand. One day you get to go back to work and deal with it first hand.”

“Don’t remind me. Let’s go back to our original subject. Do you know if you’re having a boy or a girl?”

“Yes but again we don’t have to talk about this. I know you pretend things are fine when they aren’t and you don’t have to do that. Not with me. Believe me I understand not wanting to talk about this particular topic.”

“I know.” Brook Lynn said softly, remembering the pair of tiny sneakers she had quickly taken out of Sasha’s apartment. “But that’s why we should talk about it. You deserve to be happy. And I know this makes you happy.”

Sasha leaned over and grabbed Brook Lynn’s hand, squeezing it tightly. “You deserve that too. You and Chase. I don’t know what that’s going to look like for you but I know you’re going to get there. I mean look at me. If you had told me a year ago that this is what my life would look like? I wouldn’t believe you. “

“But it is. And you’re happy?”

“Happier than I’ve been in a long time. So I know you’re going to feel this way too. Some day.”

Brook Lynn nodded, squeezing Sasha’s hand back. “Someday. But don’t think I’m waiting until then for you to answer my question. Boy or girl? You know if I get a shower gift that doesn’t go with Maxie’s theme there will be hell to pay so you need to help me out here.”

“Ok fine. We’re having a girl. And Cody is determined to buy every cowgirl related baby item that exists. It would be annoying if it wasn’t so cute.”

“So is that a tell Chase so he can help him or a don’t tell Chase so we can try to stop him?”

“That’s a you can tell Chase but there’s no stopping the man. He’s suggested Annie Oakley for the name.”

“Ok it’s a good thing you told me because no. We can’t let that happen. Tell me he’s joking.”

“The sad part is I can’t tell.”

“Oh God. I see we have a lot of work to do.”

Chapter Text

It was tempting. It was very tempting. But Chase knew better. Brook Lynn may still have issues with moving quickly on the crutches but if anything her aim had improved. As he glanced in the window and saw her lost in her writing, he knew that if he actually opened the door and said “Honey I’m home. What’s for dinner?” the remote that was next to her would be hitting his head before he got the word home out of his mouth. He really needed to get working on recruiting her to the PCPD softball team over Deception's.

Still he had to say something to announce his presence or Panda would move to attack before the door was closed. He may have trained that dog too well.

He settled on knocking on the door as he opened it. Panda tilted his head at his entrance briefly before going back to ignoring him. Brook Lynn smiled as she closed her songbook and placed it on the coffee table. “Hey babe. How was work? Solve all the crime in Port Charles?”

“Sonny’s still walking around so no.” He swatted away the pillow she tossed at him easily enough. “How about you? You seemed pretty lost in thought there. How’s the song coming?”

She let out a sigh. “It may be too depressing even for me these days. I have no idea what Allison was thinking when she came up with this idea.”

“That you are a brilliant songwriter and that even if it is depressing, it would be a number one song.”

“I already married you. You can stop with the misguided flattery thing.”

“As the person who tests out all your songs? It’s not misguided. Ever.” He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek, not missing the smile she tried to hide behind her hair. If it took the rest of their lives together, one thing Chase was determined to do was to get his wife to take a compliment and believe it. “So you worked here on your songs all day?”

“I went down to the lake to work there this morning.” She closed her eyes and let out a breath. “Ran into Sasha. Well she ran into me I guess is more accurate.”

It hadn’t been lost on Chase that Sasha had been keeping her distance from the both of them since their run in at the bakery. At first he had hoped she had just been giving them some space, but as it went on he knew she was just avoiding them. “It’s been a bit since we’ve seen her.”

“Yeah. She’s showing now. And they’re having a girl. A cowgirl if Cody has his way.”

He pushed a piece of hair behind her ear, before brushing her cheek with his thumb. She leaned into his touch for a moment. No wonder she had been so lost in her thoughts when he came in. “You could have called me after you know.”

“I know. But you were working and there’s nothing you could have done.”

“We could have talked about it.”

“Which we’re doing now.” She gestured her hand between them. “I mean it was going to happen sooner or later. Sasha’s pregnant. She lives here. The grounds are big but they aren’t that big. It’s not like the size of Manhattan or anything.”

“Well that and I’m pretty sure Sasha was avoiding both of us.” Chase pointed out.

“That too” Brook Lynn nodded in acknowledgment. “It won’t make the list of top three moments in my life or anything but we got through it. Or I did. At least the first one of those conversations was with Sasha.”

“What do you mean by those conversations?”

“The type you have when another woman is pregnant. Has she picked a name? Is it a boy or girl? When is she due? How’s the nursery coming along? Those questions.”

Chase pulled her closer to him and kissed the top of her head as she nestled herself against his chest. He hated this. Every small step back to normal was greeted with a reminder of what wasn’t normal. It felt like the first time he saw his dad have a breathing attack after learning about his ALS. He wanted so badly to fix it, to make it go away but there wasn’t anything he could do. There wasn’t anything anyone could do. It just was a part of what they had to deal with now. “You know I love you right? More than anything or anyone?”

“Even when I’m a handful?”

“Even then.” He promised. “I will say I understand why you think your work today is too depressing.”

“I know Allison is looking for a new direction but as her manager I don’t think this is the way to go.”

“Maybe not but did it help? The writing?”

“It kept me from bursting into tears when she left the dock to find Cody so that’s a plus.”

“I’m calling it a win.” He rested his chin on the top of her head. “One day it will get easier. I hope at least.”

“It’s why we’re in therapy right?” Brook Lynn moved her head to look up at him. “To help until it does get easier? Whenever that is.”

“Exactly whenever that is.” Chase agreed. “What can I do?”

“You’re doing it. I know you want to do more but it is what it is. A situation we hate but have to deal with.”

“I didn’t think you were listening when Dr. J told us that.”

“Well not the first time probably. But she has this annoying habit of also saying it in my individual sessions as well.” Brook Lynn shook her head and sat up, causing him to loosen his grip around her. “I know we’re supposed to be honest about our feelings and not hide anything from each other and I promise I’m not hiding. I just really don’t want to talk about it tonight. I don’t even know if I would make sense if I did. And just keep that joke I know you’re coming up with to yourself.”

Chase bit his lip to keep from smiling and nodded. It was scary sometimes how well his wife knew him.

“We have a joint session with Dr. J in two days. Can we just wait until then? Can we just eat whatever food Sasha sent down for dinner and watch something we don’t need to think about?”

A part of him wanted to push the issue. Make her talk with him about how she was feeling. But another part pointed out that whatever she was feeling, she had been dealing with it all day. And if her comments about her lyrics being too depressing was anything to go by, maybe she had been processing her emotions all day as well. Maybe a break was exactly what she needed.

“I’ll agree but only if I get to choose what we watch.”

“Well I said something we don’t need to think about so that was a given.”

Chapter Text

Re-reading through the lyrics for a third time, Allison made a few marks for some possible changes. A key shift between the bridge and the second chorus. A few words here and there. As much as she may have suggested she and Brook Lynn were writing together, she had known from the start her actual input was probably going to be minimal.

Linc may have been a slimy bastard of the highest order, but he hadn’t been wrong about Brook Lynn’s songwriting ability. Some of the songs he had cheapened into jingles were going to make money for years to come. Allison had known it the first time she had read the duet that had been for her and Chase. She may have made a few suggestions, but in her heart of hearts if Brook Lynn had refused to change anything she still would have done the song. It was too good to let someone else record it.

Which was the exact same argument she had made to her producer for more time on the new album. Luckily Marcus had enough sense to recognize how good these songs were when she showed them to him. And the fact that she knew for a fact that despite his tough guy act, Marcus was actually a teddy bear and liked Brook Lynn more than most managers he had worked with over the years.

She hummed the melody absentmindedly as she tried to figure out the right instrumentation. Just the piano? A guitar? Her usual band with a few strings added in? Allison was so lost in thought she actually jumped when she felt a tap on her shoulder.

“Oh my God Chase you scared the shit out of me.”She took a deep breath as Chase sat down across from her at her table at Kelly’s, two cups of coffee in his hand. He pushed one towards her with a sheepish apologetic grin on his face. “That was at least a two cup scare my friend.”

“Sorry. I thought you heard the door.” He pointed just over her shoulder. “I should have realized how lost in the music you were.”

“Yeah well it’s your wife’s fault. And since I came up with this idea I guess it’s my fault too. But that doesn’t get you off the hook.” Allison took a sip of coffee before putting the cup down and grabbing his hand, squeezing it in hers. “It feels like forever since I’ve seen you. How are you doing?”

“Day by day.” Chase shrugged. “Don’t you dare tell her but Brook Lynn was right. Going back to work helps.”

“We both know she already knows she was right.”

“True. But she doesn’t need encouragement about that at least. Her songwriting on the other hand?” He nodded towards the stack of papers. “I’m assuming that’s what had you all distracted. How are the songs?”

“Good. Really good. But you know that. Don’t you always sing the song for her so she can hear how it works?”

“Yes but we both decided that may not be the best idea for these particular songs.” Chase pointed out gently.

Allison winced. Of course he hadn’t looked at them. “I’m sorry. I should have thought of that.”

“It’s ok. I’m just glad Brook Lynn’s expressing some of her emotions about it. They aren’t really as depressing as she claims, right?”

“No. I mean sure there’s depression for sure but it’s not overwhelming. At least not by the time she gives me the songs. Her first drafts? Those I can’t tell you.”

“I thought you were writing these together? What do you mean you can’t tell me?”

“I know I said we would work on the songs together but really it’s mainly Brook Lynn. I give a few truly minor suggestions but other than that it’s pretty much all her.” She leaned back in her chair and smiled. “Your wife is really talented. I hope you know that.”

“Of course I do.” Chase scoffed. “It’s just getting her to believe it sometimes. But whatever comes of this I wanted to say thank you. Even if you don’t end up using a single song, this has helped her a lot. It’s kept her using music. And it’s given her something to focus on. Besides myself and Panda.”

“As adorable as the both of you are.” Allison teased.

“Exactly.” Chase nodded with a wink. “You’ve given her an outlet and I’ll never be able to thank you for it.”

“Oh please. After what the two of you did for me?” Allison waved her hand between them. “I’m the one who’ll never be able to say thank you. This? This is nothing. And believe me, these songs are so good I’m going to end up owing you both again.”

“You don’t owe either of us a thing. We’re friends. We help each other. That’s what we do.”

“I guess it’s been awhile since I’ve had real friends. Not ones in the music industry.”

“See? Yet another reason I was right to leave.” Chase looked down at his watch. “I need to get back to the station if I’m going to get home on time tonight.”

They both stood up and Allison reached up to hug him tight, rubbing his shoulder. She hated that this was happening to them and if this songwriting idea was helping in any way? She’d continue it in a heartbeat. She’d delay the album. She’d show the songs to some other artists that she knew would do them justice, keeping the best ones for herself of course. But anything, anything she could do she would do it.

“You and Krissy should come down for dinner some time.” Chase said as they broke apart. “Now that we’re slowly getting back to a normal life and all.”

“You’re on.” She smiled as he grabbed his cup. “I will take a raincheck on that other cup of coffee you owe me. Don’t think I forgot about it.”

“Of course you didn’t forget about that. It’s not your phone.” Chase grinned at her as he reached for the door. “Later Alli.”

“Bye Chase.” Allison waved as he ran back towards the station. Before he even got out of the courtyard, she saw him waving to a small boy playing with cars at one of the tables outside. It was absolutely unfair that two people who were so good with kids, who talked about having kids as long as she had known them almost, couldn’t have them. At least not without help.

Help.

An idea started to form at the back of her mind, as her phone vibrated against the table. It was Kristina. She picked up the phone and smiled. “Krissy. Exactly the person I need to talk to. Are you almost done at the center?”

Chapter Text

“Brook Lynn!” Elizabeth said warmly as she came out from behind the nurse’s desk. “You’re cast free!”

Looking down at her sneakers, it felt strange to Brook Lynn to actually see her feet and not plaster or a walking boot. She was almost ashamed to admit she had gotten used to the uncomfortable weight and the fact she was completely incapable of sneaking up on anyone. Hopefully it wouldn’t take too long for her to forget what that felt like, even if she had been told that her boots and heels were still off limits for at least another month. “I didn’t really think this day would happen.”

“I felt the same way when Cameron broke his arm when he was ten.” Elizabeth nodded before looking over Brook Lynn’s shoulder. “Where’s Chase? I didn’t think he’d miss this moment.”

“He was here but he’s in the middle of a case so he had to go back to the station. And it’s my turn for a solo session with Dr. J so I told him I would get back to the house on my own.”

“And he went along with that?” Elizabeth raised a skeptical eyebrow.

“I’m not saying it didn’t take some convincing but he eventually came around to my side.” Brook Lynn shrugged with a smile. “Besides I’ve hated feeling dependent on everyone between the wheelchair and the casts. It will be nice to go somewhere by myself and not have to worry about how I’m getting home.”

The two women started to walk together down the hall towards the elevators, Brook Lynn at a slower speed than normal since she wasn’t entirely used to walking around unencumbered. Elizabeth slowed her own steps to match her pace. “Well now that I can see you’re physically doing better, how’s everything else? Are the sessions with Dr. J helping?”

“Yeah I think so. I still feel overwhelmed most days but it does seem as overwhelming. Does that even make sense?”

“One hundred percent.”

“And Chase and I haven’t killed each other. Which is probably a miracle considering we’re still living at Monica’s house and my family is….well you know them.”

“That I do.” Elizabeth nodded with a laugh. “But you are talking to each other right? You’re not shutting each other out?”

“Yeah we talk. Chase would probably love to talk more but some days I just can’t. But he knows I’m not trying to shut him out when I feel that way. At least he says he does. He doesn’t bring it up in our joint sessions but who knows. Maybe he complains about me all the time when it’s just him and Dr. J.”

They stopped in front of the elevator bank and Elizabeth leaned over to push the button. “I think you should learn to trust your husband when he says he understands.”

“That sounds suspiciously like something Dr. J told me. Have you been listening in on our sessions?”

“Yes. With all my free time between work and keeping three teenage boys in line.”

The doors of the elevator opened, revealing a surprised looking Allison behind them. “Brook Lynn! Just the person I was looking for!”

“Well you found me.” Brook Lynn smiled before turning to Elizabeth. “We should get coffee soon. Preferably at an actual coffee shop, not my couch.”

“You’re on. I have to get back to work anyway.” Elizabeth waved goodbye as Brook Lynn got into the elevator. Allison was practically vibrating with energy as they waited for the doors to close. She was bouncing on the heels of her feet, the way Violet did when she was waiting in line to ride a roller coaster.

“Ok what is going on with you?” Brook Lynn questioned. “The last time I saw you this excited it was because you hit number one like I told you was going to happen. But you don’t have a new single out so it’s not that. Did something happen with Kristina? Are you moving in together? Engaged? Did you run off and elope?”

“No on all three guesses. Trust me if any of the above happened I wouldn’t be looking for you because I would be very much otherwise occupied.”

“I see your point. So why were you looking for me? DId you figure out the bridge for the new song?”

“I told you the bridge is fine. Chase agrees with me and I know you think he’s biased but he’s not wrong about this. And it’s nothing to do with the songs. I have figured out a solution, well a possible solution to your situation. If you want it that is. No pressure.”

“A possible solution?”

“Look I know how badly you and Chase want kids.”

“Allison…” Brook Lynn took a deep breath to keep her voice steady. She and Chase had barely had this conversation. There was no way she was going to discuss something like this with Allison first. As much as she loved her, there were just some things a manager and client shouldn’t discuss.

“And I get that you aren’t even ready to think about all that yet.” Allison continued. “But when you are, I want you to know that I will be your surrogate. If that’s the route you want to take.”

Whatever Brook Lynn had been expecting Allison to say, this wasn’t even on the list. “I’m sorry what did you say?”

The ding of the elevator as it came to a stop was Brook Lynn’s only hint she hadn’t fallen and hit her head causing some kind of delusion to begin. Allison looped her arm through her’s and started walking them down the hall to the therapy offices.

“You know I love both of you to death. I can pretty much set my own work schedule because I have a manager that’s awesome like that. It would be a great reason to stay in Port Charles longer. And I can just be the gestational surrogate. You can use your own genetic material.”

“Ok I really don’t want to be talking about genetic material. And Allison I can’t even start to think about that right now. Or any solution really.”

“I figured that. But I wanted you to know that the offer is always there. So when you are ready to think about it, you already have some information. I won’t be offended if you say no but I wanted you to know it was an option. Whenever and if you decide to explore it. I’m not going to change my mind.”

“You could.”

“I won’t.” Allison stopped them and looked her in her eyes. “Look, you know music is my life. And you gave it back to me without Linc. You gave me my future back. If I can help give you your future back I’m going to do it.”

“What you’re offering…that’s a way bigger thing than getting you out of a bad contract.”

“It was more than that and you know it. Look, it's an offer that will always stand. I mean it.”

She had no idea what to even say. She doubted even her great-grandmother would have known what to say and Lila always knew the polite response to anything. It was overwhelming. It was terrifying. It was opening a door she had kept firmly shut while the rest of her body healed. Taking a breath she spotted Dr. J coming towards them over Allison’s shoulder. Salvation in the form of her therapist.

“Look, my session is about to start.”

“I’m not here to stop you. And I mean it. We can talk about it at any time. I just wanted you to know.”

“I don’t know when that would be.”

“You don’t have to. Just think about it.”

Think about it. It was safe to say that was all Brook Lynn was going to be able to do for the foreseeable future. “That…I think that is going to be an understatement.”

Chapter Text

It had been a good day. Well, Chase amended what passed for good at the station at least. Brook Lynn being completely free from crutches and walking boots was the best thing. But a minor scuffle between suspects that lead to no one getting hurt, closing the book on the vandalism ring that had been plaguing the new shopping district on the west side and only making minor progress on the rash of burglaries were probably pretty good too. Even if Dante and everyone else in the station did spend most of the day harassing him about the Red Sox’s latest trade. If he “accidentally” misplaces the file Dante needed for the vandalism case well it was only missing for an hour.

And if his day was good, he assumed Brook Lynn’s was probably the best day ever. She had been beyond ready to get rid of the cast and walking boot. She told him once she wasn’t helpless and he knew that was how all the visible reminders of the accident made her feel. Even though she had promised everyone that she wouldn’t overdo it today, it really wouldn’t surprise him if he walked into the middle of a dance party with Violet, boy band music playing at top volume. The fact the house was quiet either meant she actually stayed true to her word, Violet had gotten tired and was back at Finn’s or Brook Lynn was still out doing something that he would find out about soon enough.

Finding her sitting on the couch, staring at nothing with Panda whining as he nudged her ankle was the last thing he thought he’d find. “Babe?” He asked softly as he shut the door behind him. “Babe?”

Brook Lynn jumped slightly, worrying him even more if she hadn’t even heard him come in. “Hi. You didn’t need to come home early.”

“I didn’t.” Chase said slowly as he sat down next to her, his anxiety ratcheting up. “My shift is done for the day. Brook Lynn what’s going on?”

Instead of answering him, she looked down at her watch, her eyes widening in shock. “I didn’t realize how late it was. I was going to make dinner to celebrate. I still can. I just need to adjust a few things.”

“Hey. Hey. Hey.” He took her hand in his, using his other hand to tilt her face towards him. “We can worry about food later. That’s not important.”

“Of course it’s important. You don’t know how many lecture Grandma Gloria gave me about the importance of a home cooked dinner.”

“I am not doubting Gloria’s wisdom. But right now I am more concerned that I found you sitting on the couch and from the looks of things lost in thought so much you didn’t know what time it was. I thought I’d have to remind you that a dance party with Violet did count as overdoing things. What’s going on? Did the doctor say something after I left? Did your session with Dr. J go bad or something?”

“No, the doctors didn’t say anything after you left. Dr. J was fine.” Brook Lynn took a deep breath. “I saw Allison after you left. Well she found me more like it.”

“Ok. Does the record company not like the songs?”

“No, we didn't even talk about work.” Brook Lynn paused and Chase could feel himself holding his breath. “She wanted to make me, well us, an offer.”

“To go with her on her next tour? The Empress would probably not freak out immediately if you left. And I would still have work but I could meet up with you guys in a few cities I’m sure…”

“Oh God, how do I say this? “ Brook Lynn leaned her head against the back of the couch looking at the ceiling. “She said she wanted to be our surrogate.”

He had to have heard wrong. Somehow Dante had gotten back at him, did something to mess with his hearing and it was only just now becoming obvious. There was no way Brook Lynn had just said what he thought she did. “Our surrogate what?”

“You heard me and you know exactly what she was referring to.”

“I was hoping I was wrong.” Chase admitted. Well that certainly explained why he found her sitting on the couch staring at nothing when he came in. That was about all he could think to do as well. “What even brought that topic up?”

“Not me. She said she just wanted to make the offer and let me, well us know that any time we were ready she was willing.”

“What did you say?”

“I couldn’t say anything. And then Dr. J came down the hall for my appointment and Allison left before I could say anything.”

“Well now you know what it’s like to be me when you come up with a plan.” Chase thought he said it under his breath but the smack Brook Lynn gave his arm told him it was louder than he thought. “Kidding. Mostly.”

“It’s insane.”

“It’s sweet. But yes, also insane.” Chase agreed. “I’d have thought after everything that happened with Kristina and Molly she’d want to steer clear of surrogacy.”

“Exactly. Even if we were ready, that’s the last thing I’d consider.”

Chase tilted his head. He didn’t necessarily disagree with Brook Lynn but she had considered it? “So you’ve been thinking about options?”

“No.Not really.” Brook Lynn sighed and then leaned her head on his shoulder. “Well not until Allison said what she said. And since then…”

“Yeah that makes sense.” Chase kissed the top of her head. “Anything you want to share?”

“No. Not really. Just that it feels way too soon for this conversation.”

“But you do want to have this conversation? Some time in the future?”

Brook Lynn fell silent and Chase held her closer to him. Panda had gotten bored with their talking and wandered towards the kitchen, pausing to look back at them. If it wasn’t so quiet, Chase might have missed it when Brook Lynn finally spoke.

“If I said right now I don’t know, would you hate me?”

Chapter Text

“If I said right now I don’t know, would you hate me?”

The question lingered between them, the only sound in the entire house was the soft padding of Panda’s feet in the kitchen. Brook Lynn would swear in a court of law under oath that she could hear the wheels turning in Chase’s head as he processed what she had just said. It wasn’t something she had planned on saying but when they had started therapy they had promised that they would be honest about their feelings, even if it had the potential to hurt the other person.

“I know it seems like an odd thing to say.” Dr.J smiled gently at them. “But relationships are hard. And they aren’t made any easier by hiding what we really feel about things. Even with our best intentions, the truth usually comes out. And if we haven’t been honest from the start? Then we have to deal with feelings of anger and betrayal from being misled.”

A quick glance at Chase and she knew he was thinking the same thing. The entire debacle with the recommendation letter to the Citizen’s Review Board. There was no way Brook Lynn was willing to risk anything close to that again. Not now. Not ever. “Yeah, we’re familiar with that.”

“Well then I guess some of our work will be on discussing what happened then and what was learned from it.” Dr. J nodded, making a quick note. “What you are dealing with is loss. And everyone experiences that differently even when it’s the same loss. One way isn’t better or worse. And at some point you’ll both experience something differently. And we’re going to work on a plan on how to navigate that but it all starts with honesty.”

It felt so easy then to make that promise but now as Chase still didn’t say anything, it felt like potentially the biggest mistake she had ever made. She started twisting her wedding ring around her finger, trying to keep her mind from racing to the worst case scenario. “Chase?”

“I’m here. I’m just….trying to figure out what I want to say. Other than I could never hate you. You’ve made me annoyed. You’ve made me mad. But I’ve never actually hated you.”

“I have an arrest record that says otherwise.”

“I’m going to remind you that I didn’t press charges. Twice.” He adjusted himself so he could look at her, moving his arm from her shoulder in order to take her hand. “And I’m not mad now. I just want to talk about this. The not knowing if you want to have the other conversation part I mean.”

A knot tightened in the pit of her stomach. Why hadn’t she waited until their next joint session with Dr. J before she brought this up. Dr. J would know how to start this conversation. How to make it less awkward. There was an idea. Just put this off until their next joint session. Which she totally would not cancel at the last minute. She pushed a piece of hair behind her ear. Chase ducked his head to catch her eye.

“Hey. Honesty remember?”

It was the same patient look she remembered him giving her when she broke down at the beach house after they first gave Bailey to Felicia. That made the knot lessen slightly. They had made it this far. They could do this. “Right honesty.” She bit her lip and looked to the ceiling before looking back at him. “I just don’t know where to start.”

“Well what if I say that I know you changed the subject every time your mom or Olivia brought it up but I thought that was because we hadn’t talked about anything yet.”

“That was part of it.” She admitted.

“Well I understand that part. Not that Dad and Finn want to talk about it but I wouldn’t want to talk to them before talking with you.” Chase offered her hand a gentle squeeze. “What’s the other part?”

With her free hand, Brook Lynn rubbed her forehead. “It’s going to sound crazy.”

“I knew you were crazy before I married you. Before I asked you to move in if we’re being honest.”

If this wasn’t so important she would have pointed out sometimes his sense of humor was as terrible as fashion sense. “”It’s just too fast. And I know it doesn’t make sense because I complained a lot about physical therapy taking forever but this? This is too fast.”

”Brook Lynn I…”

“Everyone wants to talk about the future and how to fix this problem with me. Whenever we want to talk about it, they have suggestions. It’s like they all want to get there….and I still feel stuck here. And besides Dr. J and Elizabeth it’s like no one wants to talk about why we need to fix this problem.” She wiped away tears that she was somehow unsuprised to find falling down her cheeks. “No one wants to talk about…”

“The baby.” Chase finished for her, drawing her close to him. She curled herself against his chest while he rubbed her back.

“This wasn’t the plan. Everyone wants to talk about a new plan but I keep thinking about the old one.”

“Yeah. And for the record? Not stupid.” He kissed the top of her head. “You know you can always talk with me.”

“I know. And I don’t even know if someone else did offer to talk if I’d take them up on it. Half the time I avoid it with Elizabeth. It’s a good thing I’m already in therapy because I sound like someone who needs it.”

They sat on the couch, their bodies curled around each other in silence. If anyone had happened to look in the window, they would assume they were a pair of newlyweds enjoying a quiet evening together. How Brook Lynn wished that was the case.

“I’m going to assume that you didn’t bring any of this up with Dr. J today so our next joint session? I’m starting with this. Just letting you know that.”

Sometimes it was very annoying how well he knew her. Which is why he probably knew without looking she was rolling her eyes as he continued.

“And right now my only plan is that my future is with you. Whatever that looks like. You and I are the non-negotiable part. Everything else? We can argue about for the rest of our lives.”

“We do love to argue.” She sniffed, a quiet smile on her lips.

“And we’re so good at it. But I think arguments can wait for now.”

Brook Lynn wrapped her arms around his waist and squeezed tightly. “I love you.”

“I love you too. Always.

Chapter Text

“You’re awfully quiet today.” Dr. J remarked as she tapped her pen against her notebook. She tilted her head to the left, trying to catch his eye. “What’s going on in that head of yours?”

Chase fixed her his best unimpressed look. “You know what’s going on. There’s no way Brook Lynn didn’t tell you what Allison offered.”

“And you know I won’t discuss what Brook Lynn and I talk about in our individual sessions.” She wagged her finger with a grin. “But that was a nice detective trick you just used. I can see why you’re good at your job.”

“You’re really going to make me go through the entire story. From the beginning.”

“I’m pretty sure when you have accomplices you make them go through the entire story from the beginning. Unless you’re going to break my heart and tell me Olivia Benson has been lying to me all these years.”

“I mean she absolutely has but fine.” Chase sighed before leaning back against the couch. “Allison offered out of the blue to be our surrogate. Which we hadn’t even begun to think about. It’s thrown both of us for a complete loop and I don’t even know what I think about it much less how to deal with everything.”

“Well let’s start with defining everything. Since you know about this offer clearly Brook Lynn told you. How did that go? And if you say fine again when I can tell you clearly don’t mean that I’m going to have to put on my mean therapist voice”

“Considering I’m now back to worrying that my wife is going to break down in tears any time anyone mentions children, fine is not the word I would use.” Chase looked down at the floor before rubbing his eye with the palm of his hand. “I know Alli and Brook Lynn have a lot in common and that’s why they’re friends. I just wish one of the things wasn’t the tendency to come up with a crazy plan and just announce it with no warning.”

“Worry is understandable. And I’m sensing you weren’t a fan of Allison’s offer.”

“I’m not sure what I think about it. And I don’t know if that really matters since we aren’t going to think about it any time soon. If ever.” Chase let out a sigh as he caught Dr. J’s questioning gaze. “I know. You want to talk about the if ever part.”

“We can start wherever you like but that did seem to make you the most animated.”

“When Brook Lynn told me about the offer, she said it was too soon to even remotely consider it. Which I agree with. We’re just starting to get back to something that at least looks normal and it would be nice to enjoy that for a little bit.”

“Perfectly reasonable.”

“And then I was stupid. I pushed it and I knew I was doing it. I should have stopped myself but nope I listened to that dumb voice in my head that said to go for it and I did. And now I’ve set Brook Lynn’s progress back and I should have just said nothing.”

“Ok flag on the play” Dr. J held up her hands in the time out signal. “First off, whatever it is you are describing as stupid, was it part of being truthful with Brook Lynn?” Seeing him nod she continued. “Then it may have been poor timing but it wasn’t stupid. Secondly, while being concerned about your wife’s reaction is considerate, you are not responsible for her reaction. As I told you at the start of this journey, you both went through trauma but it’s going to affect you both in different ways and you’re going to have different reactions. And that’s what this is. You are having different reactions. It’s not good or bad. It just is.”

They sat in silence as Chase let her words sink in. He could almost hear his dad telling him the same thing if he ever told him about this. “Maybe not the right time Harrison but your heart was in the right place. Brook Lynn knows that.” “You may be right. But I still feel bad.”

“We can work on your guilt complex when you tell me what it was that made you feel expressing yourself honestly was stupid.”

Closing his eyes, Chase shook his head. “I told her that yes it was too soon but was that a conversation we should have sometime in the future. And that’s when she told me that even asking about it was going too fast for her.”

Nodding, Dr. J scribbled a quick note. “I can understand how that conversation came up and I don’t think it was wrong of you to ask it. Does sound like poor timing but that happens. It will happen again. Maybe about this. Maybe about something else. Now did this lead to a fight or an argument?”

“No. I listened to her explain why she felt that way and realized I didn’t know how she was still feeling about the miscarriage. And then I felt like the worst husband ever for not realizing it.”

“No matter how good of a detective you are, I am sure there are some cases you can’t solve because you don’t have enough information. And while that may frustrate you, I’m also fairly sure you don’t consider yourself the worst detective ever when that happens. So allow yourself the same understanding in your personal life. Some things you just aren’t going to know until Brook Lynn tells you. And from what you said it sounds like you both handled the conversation well. Which is a good thing.”

“You know the part that really kills me?” He asked. “When she told me she didn’t know if she was going to be ready for that conversation at any point in the future, she asked if I was going to hate her. After everything….she thought I would hate her. If we don’t have kids. If we do. How we have them. That’s all negotiable. The one thing that’s not negotiable is my future is her and she thought I would hate her.”

“When she said that, what did you say?”

“Nothing. At first. Then I told her I’ve never hated her. I’ve been mad and annoyed at her. But never hate.”

“That’s good. And it’s ok to be hurt by her for doubting that.” Dr. J leaned forward. “We just need to keep in mind different reactions. And that you both have the skills to work through that.”

“Which is where you come in?”

“Which is where I come in.”

Chapter Text

“Ok. That’s it.” Brook Lynn leaned back against the couch from her spot on the floor. Chase looked over at her with concern as she crossed her arms in front of her. “I was trying to be patient but we both know that’s more your thing than mine. You’ve been weird ever since you got back from your session with Dr. J. What’s going on?”

“Nothing is going on.” Chase protested.

“You’ve broken your own rules of puzzling like six times.” She pointed, tapping the piece he had been working with. “You aren’t sorting by color or working from the outside in. That is clearly a middle piece and my husband never starts in the middle and he’s been trying for years now to get me to stop doing it.” She rose from the floor just enough to situation herself on the couch. “I’m not helping you find another piece until you start talking and we both know you need my help.”

“For the record I don’t need your help. I always welcome your help. I am perfectly capable of putting together a puzzle on my own.” He pushed the piece in question towards the center of the coffee table before he sat down next to her on the couch.

“I’ll believe that when it actually happens.” She rested her hand on his shoulder, the way she had so many times when they had talked on the sofa in their apartment. “You’re clearly distracted by something. If you don’t want to tell me I can call Finn. Or Dante. Or your dad.”

“No. There’s no need to call any of them.” Chase shook his head. He should have waited longer before coming home. Or at least figure out what he was going to say. It was ridiculous to assume that Brook Lynn wouldn’t figure out something was going on. He was still convinced if it wasn’t for finding out about his dad and all the drama going on with Tracy at the time she would have figured out about his plan to propose months before it happened. “It’s nothing. I’m fine.”

“Ok see, that's something I would say in that tone of voice. So I know it’s not nothing.” Brook Lynn smiled at him. “And you know how stubborn I am so I’m not going to give up on this. You might as well just talk.”

He chuckled a little at that. She was right about that. Chase paused to try to figure out the best way to handle this. The last thing he wanted Brook Lynn to think was that he was putting pressure on her to feel any certain way. Or that what they were doing already wasn’t enough. That she- wasn’t enough. Because she was more than enough and if she absolutely hated this idea he’d be fine. “Ok I’ve been thinking. About something we should consider.”

“Completely vague and unhelpful. I think you’ve been spending too much time with my family.” She looked around the living room. “Where’s my phone? We need to call your brother at least after all.”

“Very funny. I think we should do something.Together.”

“Ok, still vague. Still unhelpful” Brook Lynn pointed towards the coffee table. “We were doing something together until you drove me crazy by thinking about whatever it is you're trying to tell me.”

“Fine but I want you to listen to me and not try to run out of the room before I finish.” He took her hand in his and held it tightly.

“I do not do that”

“Says the person who made me propose twice.”

“I keep telling you if you had the ring out the first time I wouldn’t have needed the second. But fine I will not leave the room until you are finished.”

“It’s related to what we talked about the other day. With Allison’s offer.” He felt her hand tense in his. “Hey. You promised to listen.”

Brook Lynn took a couple of deep breaths and closed her eyes before nodding at him. “Ok. I’m listening.”

“First, what I’m wanting us to consider is not Allison’s offer.” He felt her hand relax a fraction under his. “It is way too soon and I’m not asking for a timeline of when we should discuss the future. But it got me thinking that maybe I’m not doing enough.”

“Chase. No. You’re doing more than enough. You agreed to us moving in with my family for God’s sake.”

“It was the right decision and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. But I know your family. And I should have realized that you’d be feeling pressure from them. Especially with Sasha. I know that’s not easy. It’s not easy for me either”

“I know it’s not.” She squeezed his hand back. “And that’s just the way family is. We can’t change it and we can’t hide from it right? We just have to deal.”

“Maybe. But I was thinking what if we had something that didn’t have that pressure?”

“What are you talking about?”

“Ok I was thinking we should do something.Just the two of us. Something none of our friends or family does. Or if they do, we can do it without them. Something where we can just be us. Just me and the best partner I’ve had. The only partner I’ll ever want to have.”

“I’m going to tell Dante you said that.” She smiled, before wiping a stray tear with her free hand. “This sounds suspiciously like a pitch to make me consider camping. It’s not going to work you know. I don’t care what you say, there will be a bear chasing us.”

“There would not and one day you’ll see that I’m right. But no, I wasn't thinking about camping. We can work up to that.”

“We will never work up to that.” Brook Lynn leaned forward and kissed him softly. “I love you. And it’s very sweet that you thought of this but we don’t have to do anything. I’m fine just doing this puzzle.”

“And if you hate the idea we can do puzzles together every night until we’re in our 90s. But I think we should talk about it.”

“Why do I think you already found something for us to do together?”

“Is that a you’re willing to talk about it?”

“It’s an I’m willing to hear your suggestion and then I’ll decide if we should talk about it.”

“That makes no sense.”

“This is what you got when you married me. So come on.Tell me. What’s your big idea?”

“Bowling.”

Chapter Text

“The Quartermaine Princess bowling.” Elizabeth giggled over the coffee cup. “I'm going to need pictures because I will only believe it when I see it.”

“I’ve been bowling before.” Brook Lynn protested, a touch too loudly if the other patrons of Bobbie’s shooting a dirty look were anything to go by. “I’ve gone axe throwing and I’m damn good at it. Why is bowling so hard to believe?”

“Well in the first place, axe throwing involves wearing your own shoes” Elizabeth smiled as she took a sip of her latte.

“Oh Chase is already ahead of you on that one. One of his suggestions was that if we stick with this, we could buy our own bowling shoes.”

“Do they make bowling shoes in mid-calf boots?”

“No. Which is why he lost that argument.” Brook Lynn shook her head.

“But you’re going this afternoon? I mean I have spent many a Saturday afternoon at the Queens Point Lanes myself but that was with my boys. And there’s a bowling alley right down the street here in town.”

Brook Lynn traced the rim of her own cup with the tip of her finger. “Because people might not look at us in Queens Point.”

“Might not look at you? Since when do you hate that?” Elizabeth tilted her head to the side and looked at her intently. She reached out and took Brook Lynn’s hand in her own. “Hey. What’s going on? That look is far too serious to just be annoyed that your husband convinced you to go bowling on a regular basis. Talk to me.”

Closing her eyes briefly, Brook Lynn let out a breath before lowering her voice. “I know they mean well, but my family….not that it stopped them all that much before because they’re …”

“Quartermaines.” Elizabeth finished for her.

“Exactly. But when I was in the wheelchair or even just the cast, someone, usually my mother or Olivia would mention the miscarriage and then quickly change the subject. And they’d give me this look. You know the look?”

“Yeah I remember it. But like you said they mean well and give them some time and the look will stop. I promise.”

“I think I could deal with the look. It’s what comes after. Which is promises that whatever procedure Chase and I need to have kids we can have it. Money is no object. And then Allison offered out of the blue to be a surrogate for us. Which I can’t even begin to process and the look on her face was the same.”

“Ok we’ll talk about Allison’s offer later. Don’t think I will forget about that but what do you mean the same?”

“That I should be happy that they are coming up with solutions for us. Solutions I’m not asking them for. Solutions that I don’t even know when or even if I want to discuss with Chase first. Looks like it’s been a few months now and I’m physically fine. At least on the outside so I should be emotionally ready to talk about the future and I’m not.”

“Oh honey.” Elizabeth squeezed her hand. “Please tell me you’ve told Chase this. Or at least Dr. J.”

“Chase knows. Dr. J knows about Allison’s offer but the rest of it? Not yet.”

“Well I’m glad you’ve talked with Chase at least. What did he say?”

“That there was no time line or pressure from him. And that he understood it felt too fast to even consider anything at this point.”

“Good. As the person dating his brother I’d have to get Finn to beat him up if he wasn’t understanding. But I’m still lott at how bowling comes into this.”

“Chase thinks that if we go somewhere where people don’t know us and everything that’s been going on the last few months that we can just be what we were before. A young married couple doing something together. Instead of sitting in the guest house at Monica’s house and doing puzzles. And the more we do something that my family wouldn’t immediately consider, like bowling….”

“I would pay good money to see Tracy bowl but I see where he’s going with this. And now Queens Point makes sense. I think he’s onto something.”

“I should probably count myself lucky he didn’t try to suggest we go camping.”

“Camping is not that bad. With the right company it’s actually pretty fun.” Elizabeth smiled. “And you deserve to have some fun. And if that means being around people who don’t know everything, then I think that’s a good thing.”

Brook Lynn nodded. She couldn’t deny Chase’s heart was in the right place. And that it was tempting to go to some place where she could almost forget for a minute or two how radically her life had changed recently. Where she could relax and not be on guard for some well meaning comment that sent her hurtling emotionally back to sitting on that hospital bed and listening to Dr. Lee explaining all she had lost.

Even if she did have to wear someone else’s shoes to do so.

“I will never tell him this because he will never let me live it down, but it’s probably a pretty good idea.”

“I mean it’s probably better than competitive puzzle meets.”

“Ok did not know those existed and never ever mention that in front of Chase. He will find one and make sure we go.”

“Oh come on,” Elizabeth teased. “If you want to go someplace where no one knows who you are and it’s not camping….”

“I’ll stick with bowling.” Brook Lynn shook her head.

“Probably a good call.” Elizabeth leaned across the table. “But seriously? The looks do stop. And it might be a good idea to tell your family how those promises make you feel. Or have Chase tell them if you don’t think you can. If your mom and Olivia knew, they’d stop.”

“And then the looks would continue longer.”

“Maybe.” Elizabeth allowed. “Or maybe they’d be more aware of them.”

“Maybe.” Brook Lynn shrugged her shoulders. “If I say I’ll think about it, what are the odds you’ll never mention this again?”

“The same odds of Tracy going bowling willingly.”

“Yeah that’s what I thought.”

Chapter Text

The air had finally taken on the chill of a fall afternoon. The trees that lined the shoreline of the lake were starting to show their changing colors. The sun shone brightly making it seem warmer than it actually was. Brook Lynn zipped up her jacket slightly as she looked across the water from the safety of the boat dock. She would never understand Chase’s love of camping but she could admit the scenery was wonderful.

“So I said I dug the vibes at this place over the summer, “ Allison’s voice announced herself as she came around the corner. Smiling, Brook Lynn turned to greet her friend. “But I think the fall has it beat.”

“Hey thanks for meeting me down here.” Brook Lynn gestured towards the table that she had set up for the two of them.

“Brook Lynn, you know I’d follow you anywhere.” Allison gestured with her thumb back towards the path leading to the house. “But there seems to be some sort of party going on up there. Are you sure you want to work right now?”

“Positive.” Brook Lynn motioned towards the chairs. “Sit please. Do you want anything to drink?”

“I’m fine. And look I know we set this writing session up what feels like ages ago but you don’t need to skip the party on my account. The songs are good and honestly we’re further ahead than even I thought we’d be right now. We can reschedule.”

“Allison, it's fine. I promise you. I don’t want to go to the party.”

“Are you sure? I swear I don’t mind.”

Realizing her friend wasn’t going to let this argument go, Brook Lynn let out a breath. “I’m positive. It’s Sasha’s baby shower. I don’t want to be there and Sasha does not need me there. It’s her day and she should enjoy it. She shouldn’t feel guilty because I’m standing in the corner.”

Allison winced as she sat down. “You can tell me to just shut up every once in a while.”

“Would you listen?”

“To you? Eventually. My mother on the other hand? Never.” She reached over the table and grabbed Brook Lynn’s hand squeezing it gently. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have pushed like that.”

“You didn’t know. And trust me, having this writing session scheduled for today is the best thing for me. And I sent a gift up this morning with Yuri so my grandmother won’t lecture me later on etiquette. So why don’t we get started? I thought we’d try to make this one less depressing.”

“It is not that depressing. It’s just a little dark.”

“A little dark? Allison, it took Chase a solid hour to find something that was positive about it.”

“What did he come up with?”

“That I wrote it. Which easy top five in the cheesiest things he’s ever said. And that’s a tough list to get on.”

“His cheese is part of his charm and don’t think I buy for a second that you are annoyed by it. I know you two too well.”

Brook Lynn shook her head, not wanting to admit Allison was right. “Anyway, like I said we need to lighten these songs up. Changing sounds can be good but you do need to keep at least some of the old Allison in there.”

Allison shook her head. “I’m in there plenty. And wasn’t it you that said my true fans will follow me with whatever I wanted to do?”

“Oh so we’re throwing my words in my face are we?”

“Of course. Gotta know who to blame after all if this goes wrong.” Allison shrugged. “Not that it will. But even if it does? So what? That means I wouldn’t be on tour as much and I could be your surrogate that much sooner if I’m around more.”

Brook Lynn froze. She should have known Allison would have brought up her offer sooner or later. It was one of the reasons she liked the other woman. She was upfront and clear about what she wanted and how she wanted to do things. All things considered, she was probably lucky Allison had waited this long to mention it after she found out about the baby shower. “Allison..”

Allison let out a sigh. “You hate it. Or you were thinking about using one of your seemingly endless supply of cousins. I mean not that I would blame you if you did. It’s your decision after all.”

“It’s a very sweet offer but….” Brook Lynn let out a breath. “I just don’t understand why you would even make it.”

“Why wouldn’t I?”

“Because your career is just starting to gain momentum and being pregnant could stop it for good. Because it’s way too soon for Chase and I to even consider anything to close that.”

“Which is exactly why I said whenever you were ready. I’m not saying we need to book the appointment next week or anything like that. If it’s a year or two down the line, that’s cool. I’ll be ready whenever you are.”

“Alli, this is a huge offer. One that most family members don’t want to do. Just look at Molly and Kristina. Or well anyone who’s been a surrogate for someone in this town if you want to be completely honest. It’s all been shit shows. Why would you want to put yourself through that?”

“Why wouldn’t I? After the crap you and Chase put yourselves through with Linc to help me?” Allison held up her hand. “Look I know you had your reasons too but you have cut and run long before you did. And for damn sure you didn’t need to give up all the rights to your songs. Don’t you get how much I owe you?”

“If I had said something sooner you wouldn’t have been near him in the first place.”

“And if I had said something sooner, then you wouldn’t have needed to.” She reached over to grab Book Lynn’s hand. “Come on, we both know how he was. Even though we did nothing with him, that didn’t stop him from running his mouth and making it sound like we were willing to sleep our way to the top of the charts. You never said anything but I know you heard those rumors. Hell he was even trying to make it look like I was going to sleep with Chase. And love the guy, no offense but that was never going to happen.”

Brook Lynn let out a small chuckle, causing Allison to smile before she continued. “Look the way I figure it, you not only saved my career from never getting beyond the up and coming stage, you also gave it back to me. You gave me my dream of people listening to my music the way I want it to be done back. And I know that being parents is your and Chase’s dream. And if I can in any way give you back that dream? It is the bare minimum of what I can do after all you’ve done for me.”

Wiping a few tears that escaped out of the corner of her eyes, Brook Lynn offered a watery smile. “You’re ridiculous. You know that right?”

“I am but not about this. And I ‘m not going to change my mind. If it’s too soon, fine we can talk about it later. If you decide you don’t want to take me up on my clearly amazing offer that’s fine too. But I’m serious. I want to help you with this. Anyway I can.”

Once again the emotions were too overwhelming for Brook Lynn to trust herself to speak. If she tried it would probably be the most incomprehensible sentence known to man. She didn’t really ever think she’d ever be grateful for Linc but he did bring Allison into her life. And what a blessing that was becoming. “Right now, what you can help with is making this song a little happier.”

“This song is amazing just the way it is.”

“I know Chase told you to say that. I will prove it one day.”

“I will never tell.”

Chapter Text

Olivia sighed happily as Sasha took her tiny daughter back into her arms heading back towards the stables with Cody following behind both of them. “That little girl is the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.” she smiled as she sat down on the couch next to Lois. “I still think they need to move up to the main house.”

“Let them realize living above the horses isn’t as romantic with a newborn on their own.” Lois nodded. “I give it another month before they take you up on your offer.”

“Speaking of people taking others up on offers,” Olivia patted Lois’s knee. “Has Brook Lynn or Chase said anything about what they want to do?”

“No. I mean believe me I’m glad they are seemingly ok with staying in the guest house for the immediate future. As cute as it was, that apartment was just too small for the two of them. But they won’t talk about anything else.”

“Well give them time after all. With little Annie here now, they are bound to start thinking about the future.”

“If we even see them.” Lois pointed out. “Ever since she was born, they’ve barely come near this house. The only time we see them is when they are leaving for…”

“Therapy exercise” Both women finished in unison. Exactly what the mysterious therapy exercise that the couple had been participating in for months was the subject of much debate among the family. No matter how many times someone tried to find out what it was, neither one would ever say anything. If she wasn’t so frustrated Lois would be bursting with pride.

“I just don’t want them to think that we’ve forgotten or that we aren’t here to help them.”

“Lolo. I don’t think they can forget that. I mean they can hide once a week but they can’t hide forever. Sooner or later Tracy is going to be all Tracy about it and just force them to talk.”

“My daughter didn’t get her stubbornness from just myself.” Lois pointed out.

“Oh I know. But Tracy has the advantage of also cornering Brook Lynn at work.”

“I just worry about them. I know Brook Lynn is married and all grown up but she’s still my daughter. And I know she’s hurting.”

“I know. It never goes away. But you know what helps?”

“Mid-day mimosas?”

“Mid-day mimosas.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Hey Brook Lynn!” The middle aged woman hefted her bowling ball to her shoulder. Brook Lynn couldn’t help but chuckle at the bowling shirt with the name Alice embroidered on the pocket. At some point Rachel was going to wear a shirt with her actual name on it. She was convinced of it. “Where’s Chase? We’re about to start the first frame.”

They had met Rachel and her husband George the first day they had come to the alley. The older couple was playing in the lane next to them. It had taken until the third frame before Chase had noticed Rachel’s shirt that day had Hamilton stitched on it. By the end of the game, they had two new friends and Chase had found the perfect Christmas gift for his brother.

Brook Lynn gestured with her thumb over her shoulder to where Chase stood talking to a few kids by the shoe rental. She may admit that bowling was more fun than she had initially thought but there was no way she was actually going to buy bowling shoes. “They are apparently Red Sox fans so we may have lost him until the fifth frame at least.”

“If it goes that long, you’ll have to meet with the social worker about when to finalize the adoption.”

“The adoption? Rachel, what are you talking about?”

“Didn’t you notice all the kids at the other end of the alley?

“Well yeah but it’s a birthday party right?”

“Not even close. Today is the adoption meet and mingle sponsored by the state of New York. Every last one of those kids is in foster care and they get brought to events like this to meet people who are looking to adopt.”

“Oh my God. Really?” Brook Lynn turned around and now that she was paying attention she could tell no one in the large group really knew anyone. The kids were having fun bowling but the adults were awkwardly walking between each set of lanes. “How do you even know?”

“My daughter used to work for Family Services before she got her job at Mercy.” Rachel explained. “She hated these things. Called them the world’s most awkward middle school dance. Matches pretty much never happen at these things. The kids all know the adults are looking to adopt and if no adult stops and talks with them? Well standing on the wall because no one asked you to dance might be easier.”

“That sounds awful.”

“It truly is.” Rachel nodded. “At least the kids can have some fun, which I guess is the important thing.” She smiled as Chase jogged over to meet them. “Hey Chase.”

“Rachel. I think that shirt may be closer to a waitress uniform than a regulation bowling shirt.”

“Don’t listen to him. He has terrible taste in baseball teams and clothes.”

“George will start bowling for all of us if we don’t get over there soon. Get your balls and head over to lane 3.”

“Will do.” Chase saluted her and she walked back towards their assigned lane. “Sorry. I couldn’t stop them from talking. I couldn’t just walk away.”

“I know.” Brook Lynn smiled softly. It was one of the many reasons why Chase would make a great father. He was incapable of turning his back on any child. She bit her bottom lip to keep her thoughts from straying into self pity and despair. The bowling alley was their escape from that. She wasn’t going to ruin it by having a breakdown about how sweet it was to see Chase talk baseball with kids that were looking for parents. And not in front of Rachel and George who would have no idea what was even happening.

Instead she opted to make a joke in hopes of keeping Chase from realizing where her thoughts were headed. “I know you’re always eager to talk to someone with the same terrible taste as you. I think it says something that the only people you can find are under five feet tall.”

“I’ll remind you that you said that when we beat you in the playoffs this year.”

“Keep dreaming.” Brook Lynn grabbed the pink six pound ball on the rack. “And hurry up. You know George will throw gutter balls during our turn if we aren’t there.”

“That’s because he cheats.” Chase leaned over to whisper in her ear. “I know you’re trying to change the subject and I’ll let you because we’re here. But we will talk more at home. Deal?”

“Deal.”

Chapter Text

“Ok I’ve been patient.”

She could hear Chase snort from behind her. Brook Lynn stamped her foot on the floor, hearing the thunk of wood beneath her feet. So they must be on the dock. When Chase had told her he had a surprise for them tonight, he had covered her eyes with a blindfold before leading her out of the guest house. You share one story about how you figured out where your Christmas presents were kept as a kid and suddenly he thinks you’re going to ruin his surprise, she thought to herself.

“Brook Lynn, you have patience when it comes to many things. Surprises are not one of them.”

“Well while you finish getting whatever it is you’re doing ready, can you at least tell me you made sure both the heaters have fuel this time? It will be colder down here on the dock than by the house.” She smirked and didn’t have to see her husband to know the shocked look that would be on his face right now. “Chase. I know we’re at the dock. You think I haven’t stomped my foot on these planks a time or twelve in my life? Plus we walked here. It’s not like we’re in the park. Or by the boat ramp to Wyndmere.”

“You know you’d make a great detective if you’re looking for a career change.” Chase moved behind her and started to loosen the knot.

“So I’ve been told.” She gasped as she finally saw what Chase had set up for them. The heaters were out and running. The table was covered in a white tablecloth and a pizza from Luigi’s was in the center. The loungers were pushed back against the low wall and the bluetooth speaker her father could never connect his phone to was on the side table. As she turned around to face him, Chase pushed a button on his phone and music started playing. “What is all this for?”

“I can’t just want to surprise you? There has to be a reason?” He pulled her in his arms and they started to sway to the music. “I think we know what to talk about with Dr. J about next session.”

“You’ve never needed a reason to surprise me.” Brook Lynn smiled. “But you usually have one.”

He held her a little tighter. “I just want to make this week a little easier.”

Brook Lynn bit her bottom lip and was glad Chase couldn’t look down and fully see her face. She thought she had hidden it well, but apparently she was wrong. “There wasn’t anything bad about this week.”

“So Sasha and Cody bringing Annie home this week didn’t push any buttons?” Chase questioned. “It wasn’t my strongest subject but I can do math too you know.”

Brook Lynn let out a sigh and pulled back just enough to look at his face. She reached up and stroked his cheek, her thumb lingering at his chin. “I’m sorry. We were both thinking how that should have been us.”

“Well I doubt you’d let me get away with the cowgirl theme but yes.”

“I should have said something. Here you were hurting too and I was just too caught up in worrying about ruining Sasha’s moment and making it all about me to do it. Worst wife ever.”

“Never.” Chase kissed her forehead softly. “But you were getting dangerously close to shutting me out territory so I brought in the big guns.”

“I wasn’t trying to shut you out. I just….” She shook her head. “It’s just so complicated. I’m happy for Sasha. And I know we both are. And she deserves this after everything she’s been through. I want this time to be perfect for her. But at the same time….”

“At the same time. “ Chase nodded as he pulled her closer to him. She closed her eyes and rested her head against his chest as the music changed to a John Legend song. Feeling the familiar pricking sensation of tears forming, she closed her eyes.

“I know Dr. J told us that thinking about what might have been or what could have been will only cause more hurt but it was really hard not to do that this week.”

Boy I’m in love with you
This ain’t the honeymoon

For someone who continually claimed he didn’t love music the same way she did, Chase certainly had a knack for finding the right song tonight.

“Especially when I had to stop by the house and Olivia and your mother were cooing all over the baby.”

“Oh God. I’m sorry.”

“Let’s just say it’s a good thing the main house is huge and I could go about 17 different ways to get to the solarium.”

We’re just ordinary people
We don’t know which way to go

“I thought this was getting better and then…well I guess it was too much to hope for that Sasha stayed pregnant for forever.”

“I think she’d have objected to that.”

“Probably.” With a sad smile, Brook Lynn pulled back just enough so she could look into Chase’s eyes. She wasn’t surprised to see his own tears starting to form. “Thank you by the way. This week was hard for you too. You didn’t have to do this for me.”

“Well it’s not all for you. I picked the toppings for the pizza.”

“Ok I’ll give you that this one time but only because it’s this week.” She rested her head against his chest again, taking comfort in the strong steady beat of his heart. She had been joking when she told him his snoring soothed her, but this was the real reason she couldn’t sleep at night when he wasn’t next to her. The steady beat of his heart that assured her she wasn’t alone. A fact she obviously needed to remind herself more often.

As our love advances
We take second chances
Though it’s not a fantasy
I still want you

“Ok let’s make a deal. I will work on not shutting you out even unintentionally, but you need to call me out on it. Especially when you’re hurting too. Two way street remember?”

“I’ll accept your deal on one condition.”

“And that is?”

“That we agree neither one of us was prepared for this week and we did the best we could.”

“I think I can live with that.” She leaned up to kiss him softly. As the kiss ended she smiled. “Man we would so get an A in therapy if Dr. J just saw this.”

“I don’t know what’s weirder. You wanting an A in therapy or wanting Dr. J here on this romantic moonlight picnic I planned for us.”

“Shut up and dance with me.”

We’re just ordinary people
We don’t know which way to go

“Whatever you want.”

Chapter Text

Leaning back in her chair, Tracy rested her chin on the top of her two pointer fingers. She had just dismissed Lucy from a meeting reviewing the launch plans for the newest perfume from Deception. Ordinarily she would either be triumphant that she had once again gotten the better of that gold digging tramp or be annoyed that Brook Lynn and Maxie had clearly came up with a plan to schedule another meeting at the same time that Tracy was sure did not require both of their attention as an excuse to not attend this meeting. But today she had other things on her mind as she looked at the date on the small calendar that sat at the corner of her desk.

Ten months. It was ten months to the day that Brook Lynn’s accident had occurred. And while her granddaughter had certainly recovered physically, Tracy would be lying to herself if she thought she was also recovered mentally She was still keeping a wide berth from Sasha and the few times they had seen each other, the meetings were brief.

And then there were the mysterious therapy exercises. Tracy wasn’t going to argue that it had been a good idea for the couple to seek out professional help. She could even hear her mother’s voice calling it a splendid idea. But for all the time that Chase and Brook Lynn had been going to therapy, it seemed the therapy exercises were only getting longer and more involved. She wasn’t going to deny it made her worry. If they were making progress shouldn’t the exercises become less frequent? Less intense? Were there bigger issues in their relationship that the young couple didn’t want the family to know about?

“Care to share your thoughts with the rest of us?” Gregory’s voice was gentle but it still startled her to see him standing in front of her desk, resting his weight against his cane. Tracy tried not to grimace as she noticed the new hand brace on his left hand.

“Since when do you not knock?” She asked, trying to regain her composure.

“I did.” Gregory retorted. “You didn’t hear me and we have a lunch date. I don’t have the time these days to be kept waiting.”

Tracy stood up quickly. “Have your doctors said anything? Are you having any new symptoms?”

Gregory chuckled and waved off her concern. “Nothing like that. I guess sometimes no news really is good news. That was my apparently horrible attempt at humor.”

“I’ve heard Jason make better jokes.” She gathered up her purse. “But you’re right. We have plans and we should be going. We don’t want our table to be given away.”

“I’m pretty sure every restaurant in town knows not to give away your table.” Gregory pointed out. “What had you so lost in thought that you didn’t even hear me knock?” He paused before he settled back on his heels slightly. “Of course. It’s ten months.”

There was no use trying to pretend. If there was one thing she could say about Gregory Chase it was that he was annoyingly persistent when he thought he was right. Even more so when he actually was right. It was a trait both his sons had unfortunately inherited. “Yes. Ten months. We almost lost Brook Lynn ten months ago and….” Tracy stopped and leaned against the corner of her desk. “And if I’m being honest…”

“A welcome change.”

“I’m afraid we still might.”

“I just saw them both for lunch the other day. She seemed fine. Do you know something the rest of us don’t?”

“I don’t mean physically. I mean mentally.” Tracy sighed as she placed her purse back down on the desk. “She’s still keeping too much to herself. They both are. It’s not good.”

“They’re still going to therapy. They’re getting out more now. I know the birth of Sasha’s daughter has been a setback but they’ll get there.” Gregory reached over and patted her on the arm. “It’s a long process. But they are taking all the right steps.”

“Then you aren’t worried that these therapy exercises seem to be taking longer and longer?”

“I would be if I wasn’t aware that what they are really doing is something together and are just calling it that so the rest of us don’t ask questions.” Seeing her astonished face, Gregory offered a wry smile. “Chase probably doesn’t remember this. He was pretty young but his mother and I did something similar when we first started having trouble. Only we called them faculty parties but those things were so dull no one would ever want to know anything about them.”

“Considering how you and Jackie ended things, I don’t see how you think this is a positive development.” Tracy pointed out.

“We stopped after a couple of months. Oh we told ourselves and each other everything was fine but looking back it’s clear it wasn’t. That’s probably where we started moving in different directions. Jackie taking all those assignments that took her away for months at a time. Me burying myself in research and work. But Chase and Brook Lynn seem to be going in a different route. They certainly have been doing whatever it is they are doing for longer than Jackie and I managed.”

“So you aren’t worried.”

“If there is one thing I know about Chase, it’s when he and Brook Lynn are having issues he’s miserable to be around. Some days when they were broken up he made Finn seem like Pollyanna.”

Tracy chuckled. “Now that I would like to see.”

“I’m not saying they are back to where they were before the accident. Not that I’m expecting them to. Things have changed for them. But they seem to be changing together. Which is more than I can saw for myself and Jackie.”

“Or me and well all of my ex husbands.” Tracy admitted. She sighed. “You may be right. I may be overreacting.”

Gregory feigned shock. “Would you mind repeating that so I can record you on my phone?”

“Not a chance.” She shook her head with a smile.

“You can’t blame a guy for trying. Now let’s go to lunch and I won’t let them know we almost missed our reservations because you were worried about them.”

“Concerned. Not worried.”

“The more you protest the more I know it’s worried.” He offered her his good arm and smiled. “But don’t worry. My silence can be bought. For the price of lunch.”

“And a better offer than I got from all of my ex husbands as well.”

Chapter Text

“Before we start today, I wanted to congratulate you on the hard work you’ve both put in during the past several months.” Dr. J smiled as she looked between the two of them sitting on the couch. “You have put in a lot of work, both here and outside of this room. Therapy is not an easy process. We’ve talked about some hard things in this room. Some things I’m sure you wished we wouldn’t talk about. But you’ve both done it and I think that we need to start discussing a way to gradually end these sessions.”

Seeing them both about to protest, she put up her hand. “I’m not saying it’s going to happen today. Or next week or even next month. But we should start discussing it. And understand that I will be available for what we like to call maintenance sessions if things get complicated or hard.”

“Do you really think we’re ready for that?” Chase wondered after a quick look over at Brook Lynn. “I mean it feels like there’s so much we are still dealing with.”

“You are and you are.” Dr. J laughed. “Healing from trauma is a journey. Often times it’s a life long one. There may be some things you never fully feel comfortable with again. And that’s ok. I can’t cure your emotions and reactions. I’m not a magician and it’s healthy and normal to have responses to things and events that hurt you. What we’ve been working on is giving you tools so that you can manage those situations. Let me give you an example. Your friends had their baby recently right?”

“Right.” Brook Lynn nodded. “She looks exactly like Cody, the poor thing.”

“I’m going to take that statement as evidence you’ve seen her recently. I’m going to remind you that when you found out about the pregnancy, you needed to leave your own party in what some might say was a dramatic fashion. And you both saw your friends multiple times while the pregnancy was ongoing.”

“Well Sasha does work for my family. It was a little hard to completely avoid her.” Brook Lynn pointed out. “At least not without my grandmother complaining to my mother that she raised me without the manners God gave a goat.”

“Tracy would go with a horse.” Chase shook his finger. “But otherwise, yeah that’s exactly what would happen. And she’d find a way to accidentally insult my father in the process as well.”

“Be that as it may, you were able to interact with her. And you are currently dealing with them being new parents in very close proximity and with your family being involved in that process. And I know it likely doesn’t feel like it, what you have been able to do is excellent. You have been able to process the situation here and you were able to give yourself the space in order to find ways to manage your emotions when you are around them. That is what I mean by doing the work.” Dr. J sat back in her chair.”But like I said we’re just going to start that conversation today. There are a few goals you both still are working on which I’d like to explore more in our individual sessions but there is one goal for the two of you that I think it’s time we start discussing.”

“Why do I feel nervous?” Brook Lynn attempted to pass off the comment as a joke, but her playing with her fingers betrayed her actual nerves.

“Probably because you’ve both avoided this topic every time I’ve brought it up in your individual sessions. Before I think we are completely ready to end our time together, we must discuss the future. Or at least what your visions of the future look like. And are they still the same as they were when the two of you first started thinking about it.”

“You mean kids.” Brook Lynn said flatly as she twisted her wedding and engagement rings on her finger. Chase reached over and covered her hand with his, gently squeezing it.

“Among other things.” Dr. J nodded. “For example I’m pretty sure living in your family’s guest house was never in your plan either. Or a dog. And yet both things are currently a reality.”

“Well I don’t think we can get rid of Panda. Leo for one would never speak to us again.” Chase smiled.

“And Olivia would never let us hear the end of it either.” Brook Lynn admitted.

“There we go. We can already start on a point of agreement. You both see a future with a dog.” Dr. J smiled brightly at them.

“But that was a pretty easy decision.” Brook Lynn argued. “Those other ones….”

“Does it still feel too fast?” Chase asked softly.

“Yes. No. I don’t know.” She sighed leaning her head back against the couch.

“I think you do know Brook Lynn.” Dr. J disagreed kindly. “When I mentioned talking about the future, you started playing with your fingers. I’ve noticed you tend to do that when you’re nervous.”

“I do?” Brook Lynn looked over at Chase, who nodded confirmation. “Why didn’t you ever tell me that?”

Chase shrugged his shoulders. “It’s cute.”

“Feeling nervous when talking about the future and what may have changed for you both is a normal reaction. I’d be more concerned if you didn’t feel nervous. Although he’s not as obvious about it, I’m confident Chase is feeling nervous as well.”

“Yeah. I mean I don’t want to push you to do something you aren’t ready for but I really don’t know what you're thinking. And unlike thirty percent of the time, I don’t know if you’re going to tell me.”

“Thirty percent? What about the other seventy? You know what I’m thinking then?”

“No, those are the times when I don’t know what you’re thinking and I’m pretty sure it’s better if I don’t.” Chase teased before becoming serious. “But I do want to know what you’re thinking about this. It’s been almost a year and I don’t think I know.”

Brook Lynn swiped her hand against her cheek. “We can’t just avoid this can we?”

“I think we’ve proven that strategy doesn’t work for us.” Chase paused before tilting his head to the side. “I think we’ve proven that several times.”

“Avoidance rarely is the best answer.” Dr. J agreed. “And we don’t need to come to all the answers today. This is going to take time and you’ll probably talk more between sessions or even argue about it. What I don’t want you to be is afraid of the process. Your ultimate goal is to be stronger not only individually but as a couple. Now whatever that ends up looking like this is a part of that process.”

“Ok. How would we start this process?” Brook Lynn took a deep breath to try to steady herself.

“Well not to sound like a high school teacher but with homework. I want us to meet next week and I want you both to make a list of things that you see when you think about your future today. Not what you thought it was going to be. Not what you think the other wants it to be but what you yourselves see. Then when we meet, we’ll go over the lists to see what there is in common and what we need to discuss.”

“Next week?” Chase asked.

“I thought you said we were doing better.” Brook Lynn pointed out.

“I did and you are. But I have a feeling that if I make you wait longer than a week, you’ll both avoid putting real thought into this and forget about it. Intentionally or not.”

Chase nodded in agreement. That was probably more true than he wanted to admit. “Should we show each other our lists before the next session?”

“No. You’ll discuss them both with me here to help guide the conversation in this room. Let’s not involve the entire bowling team in this particular conversation.”

“It’s not an entire team. It’s just Rachel and George.” Brook Lynn protested.

“I mean I’m sure they would do a team with us if we asked….” Chase let the sentence linger, barely controlling his laughter at the look on Brook Lynn’s face. He had a strong suspicion what the number one item on her list was. No bowling team.

“I’m going to remember you did this. We’ll be in the nursing home and I’ll still give you hell about it.”

“As long as we’re there together babe.”

Chapter Text

Panda.
Chase

WIth a sigh, Brook Lynn crossed out the words on her list for what felt like the millionth time. Flipping over to a fresh page, she shook her head. Putting her husband after the dog. What kind of person did that? The kind that was in no way ready to stop going to therapy, that’s who. If the fact that she couldn’t even rank her husband over her dog was proof enough, the fact that she had been sitting at this table outside Kelly’s for the past hour and she couldn’t put more than two things on her list was just concrete evidence.

“Do I even want to know what that notebook did to you?” Elizabeth asked as she sat down across from her, dropping her bag on the ground. “The last time I heard you were this annoyed Lulu was involved and you ended up breaking Chase’s nose.”

“It’s not that bad is it?” Brook Lynn sighed. “And what are you doing here anyway? I thought you had a late staff meeting.”

“Brook Lynn….it’s six thirty.” Elizabeth tapped her watch with a concerned look.

“Oh my God it’s not that late is it?” Brook Lynn groaned. It was worse than she thought. Instead of sitting out here for an hour, it had been three hours and she still couldn’t put more than two words on the page. “I guess it’s a good thing Chase is working tonight or he’d be sending the entire Academy class out to look for me.”

“Come on. It wouldn’t be the first time that’s happened. I’m pretty sure Mac used to send them out after Georgie and Maxie when they were teenagers all the time.” Elizabeth smiled. “What’s going on? Stuck on a song?”

“God I wish.” Brook Lynn shook her head. “No, don’t worry about it. It’s nothing. Just proof that Dr. J isn’t always right and I need to remember to bring that up at our session the day after tomorrow.”

“I thought you just had one last week? You’re having another one so soon? Is something wrong?” Elizabeth leaned forward in concern.

“No we were talking about starting to do less sessions but she wants us to start working on this goal before that and she gave us homework. Said if she didn’t schedule us to see her this week she was pretty sure we wouldn’t do it.”

“Considering your session is the day after tomorrow and I’m assuming the homework is what has you giving the evil to that innocent notebook, I’m going to go with she was right.” Elizabeth smiled. “Has Chase done his yet?”

“We were told not to do it with each other so I don’t know but he’s such a Boy Scout he probably got it done the night she gave us the assignment. And it’s probably better than mine. Maybe I’ll just say my list is the exact same as his and isn’t that awesome?”

“Unless she makes you and Chase read each other’s list. So I don’t think that will work. What’s this homework anyway? What do you need to make a list of? Maybe I can help.”

Brook Lynn let out a sigh, looking to the sky for a moment. It seemed so stupid that she was having this much trouble with this. “We’re supposed to write out a list of what our vision of the future looks like now. After everything.”

“I see. And how far have you gotten?”

“Chase. Panda. But not in that order.” Brook Lynn groaned and laid her head on the table. “I am the worst person in the world. I put my dog ahead of my husband.”

“You’re not the worst person. Just human. I love my boys but some days if the house was on fire I’d grab the coffee maker over them.” Elizabeth laughed. “But it sounds like you’ve got a good start there to me.”

“That’s all it is. Every time I go to write something else I just…freeze.”

“Well what else were you supposed to be picturing?”

“Where we live, what we do, do we…” Brook Lynn felt her voice waiver. She took a breath and forced herself to continue. “Do we have kids.”

Elizabeth nodded sympathetically in understanding. “So are you stuck because you can’t picture those things? Or because you do and you don’t know what Chase is picturing?”

“Or do I think I know what his is and I’m not sure if mine is mine or his?” Brook Lynn asked softly before looking into Elizabeth’s eyes. “I may have been avoiding thinking about the future lately.”

“There’s no time like the present to start.” Elizabeth looked at her watch. “Aiden has a study group tonight and Jake is watching some game with friends. Let me go order something to eat and I’ll help you.”

“Elizabeth, it’s my homework about what my future looks like. You don’t need to help me.”

“Did Dr. J say you couldn’t have outside help in figuring it out?” Elizabeth asked as she rose from her seat. “Would it be breaking any rules?”

“No. The only rule was that we couldn’t talk about it with each other before the session. And that we couldn’t work on it together.”

“I’m sure that’s not causing you any anxiety at all.” Elizabeth deadpanned.

“None. I’m completely calm and collected.” Brook Lynn held open her tote bag where she had been tossing the rejected lists she had torn out of the notebook. “This is evidence of a completely non anxious person.”

“Listen, I'm a mom. I’ve had years of experience helping kids with homework.”

“Did you just say I remind you of your teenage boys?

“Would you let me talk? What I was going to say is that I know I can’t do it for you but I can help ask questions that may help get you going in the right direction. Sometimes that’s all you need, is the question to be asked in a different way.” Elizabeth reached across the table and took Brook Lynn’s phone, ignoring her yelp of protest. “I’m taking this with me so you won’t leave as I get my dinner. We’ll get the details all worked out when I get back.”

“The details?”

“Well it seems to me you’ve got the most important part already on the list. Chase. The rest seem like details to me.”

Chapter Text

Chase crumpled up another sheet of paper and used the wastebasket by the desk sergeant’s desk as an opportunity to work on his hook shot. He missed, sending it to land next to Tony’s elbow. He put on his best innocent face and quickly started reading the file of the case he was supposedly working late on. When the ball of paper came sailing back onto his desk, he made a mental note to work on his innocent look. Clearly he was slipping.

“That might have worked man if you hadn’t hit him like 20 times already” Dante pointed out as he sat back down at his desk. He tilted his head to look at the case file. “And I know you aren’t still looking into the Huffman break in.”

“And would you know that?”

“Well for starters, we solved that seven months ago and the trial was over today.” Dante threw a stress ball in his direction but Chase managed to drop the file and catch it. “You were supposed to box that up and take it down the evidence an hour ago.”

“Shit.” Chase swore as he looked at his watch and stood up quickly, trying to remember where he put the evidence box when he brought it up earlier. “They’re going to kill me.”

“It’s fine.” Dante waved him to sit back down. “There’s a new cadet down there today and O’Riely is having too much terrorizing him to have noticed you’re late.” His partner looked at him quizzically. “You’ve been distracted all shift. What’s going on with you?”

“Nothing. Nothing.” Chase looked down at his notepad and started writing again. He was going to get this done tonight if it killed him. “Everyone’s allowed an off day right?”

“Not you buddy.” Dante reached over and grabbed the notepad from under Chase’s arm. “You’ve been writing on this every chance you get today. Becoming a novelist? I think Molly would give you some pointers if you ask.”

“Very funny.” He made an attempt to yank it out of Dante’s hand but his partner quickly turned his back to him, evading his grasp. “Come on Dante. Give it back now.”

“You weren’t this private about writing your wedding vows.” Dante teased, continuing to evade Chase’s grasp.

“Glad to see my tax dollars at work,” Gregory announced himself wryly, leaning on his cane.

“Dad.” Chase finally succeeded in getting his notepad back from Dante. “What are you doing here?”

“Well I had an appointment with my doctor and figured I’d stop here to tell you how it went before your brother called you and the two of you panic for no reason.”

“Panic?” He started towards the interrogation room, opening the door and motioning for his father to follow him. He waited for Gregory to sit down before he shut the door and continued. “What am I not supposed to be panicking about?”

“First sit down. I’m not someone you're interrogating.” Gregory rested his hands on the table as Chase followed his instruction. “And it’s nothing. My left hand has been feeling a little weak at times….”

“Weak?”

“It’s expected. But it’s not horrible. Not yet anyway.” Gregory shrugged. “I was fitted for a brace today and I’ll be wearing it pretty much full time.” He held his hand up to stop Chase from talking. “It’s fine and on the scale of things it’s not a big deal. And I’m sure your brother will tell you the same thing once he stops questioning my doctor in the next hour or so.”

Chase let out a breath. If Finn knew then his dad must be telling the truth. If it was really bad, there was no way he’d tell either one of them. That didn’t mean there weren’t other things that were discussed during the appointment. .”Is that all you needed to tell me?”

“On Violet’s honor I promise.” Gregory smiled. “Now why were you and Dante almost getting into a wrestling match in the middle of the station?”

“It’s nothing.” He shrugged. “I’ve been distracted today and he was just trying to figure out why.”

His father narrowed his eyes slightly. “This wouldn’t have anything to do with the fact that Brook Lynn is equally obsessed with writing things down this week would it?”

“When did you see Brook Lynn?”

“My time with my favorite daughter in law isn’t your concern. But you both have been distracted. I’m guessing it’s about the same thing.”

Chase sighed. He had seen that look in his dad’s eyes many times growing up. It was the look that said he could try to avoid the conversation all he wanted, his dad was still going to talk about it. “It’s therapy homework. And that’s all I’m going to say about it.”

“That’s probably all you should say about it.” Gregory nodded. “Have I told you how proud I am of you? About how seriously you’re taking therapy?”

“Why wouldn’t I take therapy seriously?”

“You’d be surprised. Your mother and I didn’t.”

Chase felt his eyes widen in surprise. “You…you and mom went to therapy?”

“You were pretty young but we’d say we were going to faculty functions and leave you with a baby sitter. Now some of those were actual functions but most of the time? They weren’t. No one wants to go to that many functions.” Gregory rested his hands on top of his cane. “We stopped after a few months. We were convinced that we had solved our issues but obviously that wasn’t the case. It wasn’t long after we stopped that your mother started taking all those assignments overseas and I started doing all my research.”

“Dad…”

“What happened between your mother and I was probably for the best. But my point is that we also didn’t take the opportunity to really work on our relationship. Now I understand why but at the time we didn’t. And who knows what could have been different if we had? Maybe we’d have gotten to a point where she felt comfortable coming to your wedding.”

“Dad you know I don’t blame you for that. Or her.”

“I know you don’t. I recall your wife talking about how you are always ready to forgive in her vows. But these days I find myself thinking a lot about the past and choices I’ve made. And I just wanted to make sure you knew that I am proud of you for avoiding one of my mistakes.” He stood up slowly, resting his weight against the cane and waving off Chase’s move to help him. “I’m not an invalid just yet.”

“I know you aren’t.” Chase smiled sadly. He held the door open for his dad to walk through, touching him softly on the shoulder before he completely left the interrogation room. “Dad? Thanks.”

“That’s what I’m here for son.”

Chapter Text

Even if she wasn’t familiar with Brook Lynn’s nervous tells, it would be clear to a complete stranger the other woman was nervous. Her fingers couldn’t stop playing with any piece of her jewelry they could get near. She had nearly twisted her wedding and engagement rings completely off her hand before she realized what she was doing. And while he hid it better than his wife, Chase was no better. He kept taking deep breaths and letting them out slowly as if he was on the brink of a panic attack. And neither one could keep their eyes of the two pieces of paper that laid face down on the table in front of them.

It wasn’t the first time she had seen similar reactions. However those were from couples she knew were on wildly different pages about their futures. In all her months of working with them, Dr. J was confident this wasn’t the case here. But with all she had learned about their history, she knew that if she didn’t force them to have this conversation, they would probably avoid it. Avoid it to the point they would be on different pages. The exact scenario they were trying to avoid by coming to her. So while she did think they were ready to start tapering down their sessions, it was entirely possible she introduced this homework item earlier than she initially intended.

“Ok.” She smiled brightly, not missing how they both jumped a little when she spoke. “I’m glad to see you’ve done your homework. I can tell you followed my instructions about not helping each other with these to the letter.”

“How can you tell that?” Chase wondered.

“Because you are both looking at them like they are a bomb about to explode.” She explained with a chuckle as Brook Lynn and Chase both looked embarrassed at her observation. “If you already knew what it said, you wouldn’t be so nervous.”

She had hoped that her acknowledging the tension in the room would lessen it. Instead it seems to have increased both of their nerves. Ok she was going to have to go with the nuclear option. “Alright, well in keeping with the theme of homework, I want you to switch your papers and you’ll read them out loud.”

If it wasn’t so concerning, their looks of horror would have been funny. Dr. J put on her best reassuring smile. “I can understand you both being nervous, but I honestly wouldn’t have done this exercise with you if I didn’t think you were ready. Whatever it is you both wrote down, we can start to deal with it in this room. All three of us. Together.”

After closing his eyes and taking a breath, Chase reached over and took Brook Lynn’s paper but didn’t turn it over just yet. Instead he gave his wife a look that said “Well, your move.” Not to be out done, Brook Lynn put on a defiant face and took the sheet of paper in front of Chase. She turned it over but did not look at it any further.

Well that answered that question then. Dr. J sat back in her chair and gestured towards Brook Lynn. “Brook Lynn, you go first.”

“Why me?”

“Because I think if I make you wait any longer you’re going to have a stroke and I prefer not to send my patients to the ER when I can help it.” She raised her hand and motioned for her client to go on.

Brook Lynn looked at the ceiling for a long minute before taking and releasing several deep breaths. “Ok” she finally said as she turned over the paper. “Ok. Here we go.”

She stopped for a second, looking over at Chase before she started to read out aloud. “Brook Lynn. Panda. A place of our own that we won’t be giving spare keys out to relatives. Music. Bowling.” Brook Lynn rolled her eyes before giving a skeptical side eye to her husband. “Really? You put bowling on the list?”

“It’s how I see our future. And I'm pretty sure Rachel and George aren’t going anywhere any time soon.”

“You’re impossible.” She went back to reading his list. Her voice trembled slightly. “Kids. Either ours or nieces and nephews. Doesn't matter” Dr. J could see tears start to form in Book Lynn’s eyes and subtly pushed the tissue box towards her. “You really mean that?”

“We weren’t supposed to lie on this list. And you tell me all the time I’m a horrible liar anyway.” Chase took her hand in his. “Brook Lynn, the most important part of my future is you’re there. I’ll say it every day if you need to hear it. Whether we have kids or not isn’t the deal breaker. You not being there is.”

Brook Lynn took a couple of shaky breaths before nodding. “Read mine.” she told Chase. “Read mine.”

He looked hesitantly at her, but Chase turned the paper over and began to read. “Panda. Chase.” He looked over at her. “Really? I’m after the dog?”

“You know I get nervous under pressure.”

“I mean I suspected but now I know…” he teased.

“Just read more.”

“Kids. Somehow.” Chase looked over at her. “You really mean that? You didn’t just put that on there because you thought I would want you to?”

“I know we couldn’t talk to each other but I did get some help from a friend.” Brook Lynn looked over at Dr. J. “That wasn’t breaking the rules was it?”

“Not at all.” Dr. J shook her head. “As long as this friend didn’t write the list for you.”

“No. We just talked. Well more like I talked and she just asked questions. A lot of questions. And she helped me realize that I am completely terrified.”

“Terrified of what?” Dr. J asked.

“Terrified of trying again. Terrified that something will go wrong. That nothing would work.”

“All valid fears. For anyone, but even more so for someone who’s been through what you have.”

“Hey.” Chase put his fingers under her chin to turn her head to face him. “I’m scared of all that too. I thought we agreed to be scared together a long time ago didn’t we?”

“Those aren’t the things that scare me the most.”

“And what’s that?” Dr. J prompted.

“If nothing works. You were meant to be a dad and I don’t want you to resent me if it’s not the case.”

“Never.” Chase scooted closer to her. “This isn’t your fault. It’s not mine. It’s a thing we’re dealing with but we got to deal with it together. That’s why we did this right? I’m not going anywhere. I told you. You’re it for me. There is no future I can picture without you in it.”

Brook Lynn nodded through her tears. “Same here.”

“Well except where the dog is concerned.”

“You aren’t going to ever let that go are you?”

“Nope. We’ll be in the nursing home together and I’ll still bring it up.”

“Promise?”

“I promise.”

Sometimes, Dr. J smiled to herself, sometimes her clients made her job too easy. “I had a feeling this might be the way this goes. Now that we are all on the same page, now we can talk about how we get to that mutual future.”

Chapter Text

The rain and wind pounded against the roof of the guesthouse. Panda grumbled, annoyed that his sleep was being disturbed. Brook Lynn absentmindedly reached down towards her lap and patted his head, her eyes never leaving the movie currently on their TV. Chase tried to stifle his laugh but it escaped anyway.

Brook Lynn narrowed her eyes and glanced at him. “Why are you laughing? This is the most dramatic part of the movie!”

“Babe, I think we know they’re going to score a touchdown to win the game.” Chase gestured towards Panda with the remote. “Besides, it wasn't the movie I was laughing at. It’s how quickly he calms down when you pet him.”

“Don’t be jealous.” She leaned over and kissed his cheek. “I still love you more.”

“Not according to your list you don’t.”

“You are never going to let me live that down are you?”

“It’s only been a week.” Chase jokingly protested as she settled back into his side. “I’ll let it go in time for our fiftieth wedding anniversary.”

“You’re an idiot.” She said affectionately.

“Your idiot.” He corrected, kissing the top of her head. “Always.”

“And I’m the luckiest woman in the world for it.”

They settled back into watching the end of the movie, where yes the underdog team did in fact score the touchdown to win the big game. The camera panned over to the star player catching sight of his father sitting in the stands and Chase heard a telltale sniffle from his wife. He hit pause on the remote. “Happy tears or sad tears?”

“If I was crying, which I’m not, can I say both?” Brook Lynn sat up a little straighter. Chase turned and leaned back against the arm of the couch to look at her. “OShe started stroking Panda’s head again,to soothe the puppy after he got disgruntled from being moved in such an undignified manner. “I know we agreed to not discuss anything future related until our next session with Dr. J but I think I’m obsessing.”

“Is that why we’ve been watching a suspicious amount of Disney movies lately?”

“Violet really loves them.” Brook Lynn defended herself. “And we need to know what she’s talking about.”

“Like it’s a struggle to get Violet to explain something.” Chase laughed as he swatted the pillow Brook Lynn launched at him with her free hand.

“I know Dr. J was probably right that we need to give ourselves time to think and not rush into anything. And believe me knowing that we’re on the same page no matter what is a huge relief. And I don’t want to rush into anything. I still don’t think I’m ready to do anything but ….”

“Yeah it’s all I’ve been able to think about too.” Chase admitted. “And for the record I’m not ready to do anything yet either. But I’ve been so busy trying to not think about the future lately….”

“That now it’s all either one of us can think of.” Brook Lynn finished. “And so I’m obsessing.”

“I’d say we both need to relax but I know that won’t work. And we both aren’t ready for THE big conversation.” Chase tilted his head to the side. “But what if we start with a smaller discussion.”

“What do you mean a smaller discussion?”

“Well we both had on our lists that at some point we should move out of this guest house. Great as it has been for us and I’m grateful Monica let us use it but…”

“But it does come with a lot of proximity to my family and their lack of boundaries.” Brook Lynn nodded. “Ok as much as I loved the apartment it would be way too small with the two of us and Panda.”

“Especially since Panda has almost as much stuff as you do.”

“I’m going to pretend you didn’t say that for the sake of our marriage.” She stuck her tongue out at him, causing Chase to laugh before she continued. “Wherever we end up, there should be some place where we can take Panda for walks. Or a dog park he can run around” She paused for a second before shaking her head. “How is this a smaller discussion?”

“Because this would be a move we want to make instead of one we have to?” Chase shrugged. “And we’ve never really talked about this before.”

“We have so.”

“Not in a serious way. Just in a sometime in the future sort of way. Usually when you couldn’t find your purse.”

“It is not my fault the apartment was a black hole.” Brook Lynn said seriously. “But back to the point, we either need a yard or to be near the park so Panda won’t resort to eating my shoes.”

“Don’t want that. Especially the ones that make your legs look even more amazing than they usually do.”

“Oh my god the lines you come up with.”

“We both like to cook. It would be nice to have enough space to do that together.”

“I’d love that.” Brook Lynn smiled softly. “And not to bring up that other conversation but I think we both know Violet, Leo and Bailey Lou will be over all the time, so we need space for them.”

“You need a dedicated office. So you can do your writing and meet with clients.”

Brook Lynn leaned over and kissed his cheek. “No carpet. So your dad can get around now and in the future. So maybe open concept?”

“You know you don’t really need to try for favorite daughter in law status right?”

“You know I love Gregory. And I know you want to spend all the time you can with him. And while Violet loves it, you know Finn has a lower tolerance for company. He’s getting better but still. Granny is his most frequent visitor outside of you and Elizabeth. And that’s not saying anything good.”

“You make a good point.” Chase got up from the couch and grabbed his laptop from the desk in the corner. As he booted it up, he looked over at his wife. “I know we’re just talking right now but it wouldn’t hurt to just look at some listings to see what we like.”

“And see what realtors that are out there other than Lucy.” Brook Lynn added as she moved closer, gently depositing Panda on the floor. He sniffed his displeasure at being moved from his favorite spot in the world. “I’m pretty sure Lucy would rather admit that Carly and Laura Spencer helped restart Deception than show me houses.”

“No argument there. I think she spent half the time when she was showing us the beach house trying to convince me to join Magic Milo.”

“Ok I don’t need to know anymore about that because I’ll be way too tempted to yell at her at the staff meeting on Monday.”

“You always want to yell at her.”

“Details. Just pull up the listings.”

“OK but for the record, Tracy isn’t paying this time.”

“Of course not. Doesn’t mean she’s not going to try.” Brook Lynn laid her head on his shoulder. “But this is our place. She’s not going to get any say in it.”

“Our place. I like the sound of that”

Chapter Text

The force with which Tracy slammed her purse down on the table caused the other diners at the PC Grille to look up with alarm. Gregory however continued to read his newspaper without even a quick glance to see what had just happened.

“You. You’re behind this aren’t you?” She shook her finger in his direction as she sat down across from him.

“Tracy.” He said calmly as he folded the newspaper in half, finally looking at her. “I know I enjoy your theatrics more than most people, but that’s generally because I have some idea about what you’re referring to. What exactly am I supposedly behind?”

“You know very well that I’m referring to this completely idiotic plan that Chase and Brook Lynn have to move to Queens Point.”

“Last I talked with Harrison they were merely looking around. No decision had been made that they were even going to move. And even if they have made a decision, did you really think they would stay in the guest house forever?”

“They need to be near family. Brook Lynn has not fully recovered yet and Chase’s hours are unpredictable at best. They’ve been through too much change in a short period of time. They need stability.” The waitress hurriedly brought over a glass of water and scurried away, not wanting to incur the wrath of Tracy Quartermaine while she was making a point. “It’s in the best interest of everyone that they stay exactly where they are.”

“In everyone’s best interests or just yours?” Gregory asked, quirking his eyebrow upwards. It was a move Tracy had seen Chase do many times in the past two years. “What exactly are you objecting to? The fact they are just considering the idea or the fact that it didn’t come from you?”

“There is no reason for them to move. The guest house is perfectly fine for their situation.”

“Tracy.” Gregory said patiently. “They are a young couple that wants privacy. Which I am pretty sure includes not bribing members of the household staff to hide keys from well meaning family members.”

“They can change the locks and not let Olivia or Lois know.” Tracy argued with a stubborn lift of her chin.

“I want to remind you that they are just thinking about this. They are having fun looking at listings. It’s entirely possible that nothing will come of this.”

“Need I remind you the last time they looked at listings, they moved into that tacky beach house owned by that Australian interloper. And that Bailey was kidnapped from that very premise.”

“I’m sorry, are they hiding another child from a criminal? I wasn’t aware.”

“Will you take this seriously?” Tracy demanded looking around the restaurant. “And just where is our waitress? The standards of service at this establishment have gone downhill quickly.”

“She’s probably waiting for you to stop your tirade about something that hasn’t even happened yet.” Gregory pointed out. “And I would take this seriously if I thought it wasn’t the right decision.”

“See? I was right. You were behind this.”

“I am not behind anything since there isn’t anything to be behind.” Gregory leaned forward. “What is this really all about? I believe most people would see this as a positive sign that they are moving forward in their lives.”

“Most people are idiots.” Tracy declared. “Present company excluded.”

“I appreciate the distinction.” He chuckled dryly.

“It’s too much too soon. Brook Lynn has barely finished her physical therapy.”

“She finished four months ago.”

“They haven’t even completed therapy yet.”

“You know as well as I do that they are getting close to that.”

“And even if I would agree in theory to them moving out, which I don’t I would never agree to Queens Point.”

“While I’m sure your approval means everything to both of them, I am pretty certain that whatever “therapy exercises” they are doing, they’re doing them in Queens Point. I’d also guess they have some friends in that area as well.”

“They need family.”

“They need both.” He corrected her. “And it would probably be helpful to not rebuild their lives together when there's a baby just a few yards away on the grounds at all times.” Leaning forward, he reached for her hand. “I know you don’t do well when things are out of your control.”

“This isn’t about control. This is knowing what’s best for them.”

“You know, every time the hospital calls me about an appointment of mine? I have to ready myself for a brief second just in case it’s not an appointment reminder.” He gave her a soft look, one that she hated because she knew it meant he had figured something out about her. “Even when I’m in the room with both of them, I do it. I think they could live in the main house down the hall from your room and you’d still worry.”

“The grounds are perfectly safe. That is the one thing I will give Monica credit on but never tell her I said so. She has kept up with the security measures. Her taste in flowers however are another story entirely.”

“We can’t protect them from everything.”

“Says who? If Yuri needs more help, I’ll hire it.”

“I am sure that both Chase and Brook Lynn are grateful that you manipulated them into staying at the guest house…”

“I merely presented them with the best option for their situation and they happened to agree with my suggestion.”

“I doubt they would see it that way.” Gregory continued. “But this was always going to be temporary. Even if you didn’t want it to be. And whatever the future holds for them, they need to be able to figure that out. Together.” He held up his hand to stop her from interrupting him. “Without the well meaning assistance of family.”

He settled back in his chair and picked up his menu. “Besides, I am sure they are both aware that no matter where they move, a certain concerned grandmother will be over as often as she can.”

“Oh Jackie’s mother moved to town? I wasn’t aware. I’m sure Olivia and Lois will throw her a welcome party once they know.”

“I think they also know that if they were to move out, any place they choose would need to meet your standards. I’m sure your input will be expected.”

“If I left it up to your son, my granddaughter would be living in one of those ridiculous tiny houses in someone’s backyard.”

“They have Panda to think about now. He’d at least find a vacant lot to build on.”

Chapter Text

The weather turned out to be perfect, in spite of the local weatherman saying rain was likely this afternoon. From her spot on the bench, Brook Lynn smiled as Chase and Violet chased Panda around the dog park. She looked back down at her tablet. Lucy had been pushing the idea of a celebrity collaboration for a new perfume line and for once, everyone thought it was a good idea. Even Tracy. And they were close, very close to finalizing the deal with the star of what Violet had promised her was the “coolest show ever”. And considering Finn didn’t even let Violet watch the show and she knew exactly who Brook Lynn was talking about was all the proof she needed that it was the perfect choice. She just hoped Lucy didn’t scare the girl away because the ideas the social media team had come up with to promote the line were amazing if she did say so herself.

Her email notification popped on the screen. It was from one of the producers the label wanted Allison to work with on the new album. She hovered her finger over the message, nervous about the contents. What if he hated every song? What if he wanted to hide the emotions behind drum tracks and beats like Linc always did? This was why she wrote for herself. Putting her emotions out there like this was entirely too vulnerable.

“Auntie Brook Lynn.” Violet’s disapproving voice distracted her. She stood there with her hands on her hips, with all the attitude a nine year old was capable of. “You said you weren’t going to be working.”

“You’re right I did. I’m going to put this away” Brook Lynn slipped the tablet back into her tote before offering up the water bottle that was sitting next to her. “Thirsty?”

Nodding, Violet grabbed the bottle and sat down next to her. She took a few sips before speaking again. “Panda sure has a lot of energy today.”

“Well we knew we were bringing you both here today so Uncle Chase didn’t take him for a walk this morning. Where are they anyway?”

Violet motioned towards a hill leading to the far end of the park. “Someone Uncle Chase knows was throwing a frisbee with his dog so they went over there.”

“And you didn’t want to go with them?”

Violet put the water bottle down on the bench next to her and turned so she could face Brook Lynn. Brook Lynn turned so she could fully see her niece. “I wanted to talk to you. Alone.”

“Well this sounds serious.”

“Are you really moving? And why are you moving so far away?”

“Moving? We…haven’t made any decisions….who told you we were moving?”

“I heard Auntie Tracy say that you were moving near the Queen. And we don’t have any queens here so that has to be far away.”

I’m going to kill Granny Brook Lynn told herself as she pinched the bridge of her nose. She should have known Tracy had been far too quiet when she saw them looking at listings the other week. “I think she was saying Queens Point. Which isn’t that far away. Your friend Julie lives over there.”

“So you aren’t moving to another country?”

“No. And even if we were, I don’t think Tracy would be the only one complaining about that. I think Grandpa Gregory and your dad would have some thoughts on that too.” She smiled and pushed back Violet’s ponytail over her shoulder. “And we aren’t even moving. We’re just talking about it.”

“But I like you guys at the guest house. I can come visit you when Daddy and Auntie Tracy play their game.”

“And you still can. We aren’t going anywhere. I promise if we do move, you’ll know exactly where we’ll be before we do anything.”

“Good. I’d miss you guys too much if you were far away.” Violet paused, her face taking on an even more serious look. The last time Brook Lynn saw that look, it was after they had told her about Gregory’s ALS and she had more questions to ask.

“What is it sweetie? Something else on your mind?”

Violet nodded. “But I don’t want to make you sad again.”

“Sweet girl.” Brook Lynn reached over and hugged her quickly. “We haven’t been fun to be around for a while have we?”

“Not all the time.” Violet swore. “Just sometimes. But I’m glad you’re happier now.”

“I am too but I don’t want you to be afraid to ask me questions. Even if they are sad questions.”

“If you guys move and you get sad again, how can I help cheer you up if you aren’t at the guest house?”

“It’s not your job to cheer us up, sweetie. We have to cheer each other up. And that’s what we’ve been talking with a counselor about. And she thinks we’re doing pretty good at it or she wouldn’t be saying we could stop seeing her all the time soon.”

“But I couldn’t help you when you were in the hospital but I can now.” Violet disagreed stubbornly.

“And you do. You make us both so happy when we see you. But sometimes we’re sad and that’s ok. I know for a fact your dad and grandpa are both really sad about his illness but that doesn’t mean you see them sad all the time right?” Seeing Violet shake her head, Brook Lynn continued. “It’s ok they are sad about that. And your uncle and I will be sad sometimes too. But you know what?”

“What?”

“Sometimes it’s a good thing to be sad with someone else. Especially when you’re sad about the same things. And that’s what Uncle Chase and I are. We’re sad about the same things. Just like we’re all sad about your grandpa’s ALS.”

“You promise?”

“I promise. And I am positive that even if we were to move to the other side of the moon, Auntie Tracy would figure out some way to get you both there so fast if we needed you.”

Violet giggled before snuggling into Brook Lynn’s side. “You promise I’ll see your new house before you move?”

“We aren’t moving. And if we were, there will always be a room for you and you alone.”

“Until my baby cousin comes”

Brook Lynn bit down on her tongue to keep the quiver out of her voice and took a breath before responding. “Yeah. Until that happens.” She blinked rapidly to keep herself from crying. “Come on,let’s go find your uncle. I think he promised us both pizza. Time to make him pay.”

As Violet jumped up with her water bottle in hand, sprinting in the direction she had last seen Chase, Brook Lynn took a minute to gather her things and her thoughts. She let out a few deep breaths until she felt in control of her emotions again. Feeling the urge to cry pass, she smiled to herself. She’d talk about it with Chase tonight when they got back home but she did it. A few months ago that conversation would have left her a blubbering mess but she got through it. Maybe she really did earn that A in therapy she and Chase joked about.

“Hey there you are.” Chase said as he kissed her cheek. “Violet said you were ready for pizza.”

The smile she gave was a real one,not one of the many fake ones she had given in the past.

“I am so ready.”

Chapter Text

The sight of the manicure set on the coffee table made him smile. Chase had thought Brook Lynn had been unusually quiet on their way back from dropping off Violet but if she was doing a manicure, then things couldn’t be that bad. Ignoring her yelp of protest, he grabbed the remote from it’s spot next to her on the couch and changed the channel. She gave him a dirty look before she recognized he had changed the channel to The Golden Bachelor.

“I still think we should look into getting Tracy on this.” He remarked. “You know she’d be the first person to win by not playing the game for the right reasons.”

“Ok first off no one plays this game for the right reasons. Ever. Second, you aren’t wrong but she’d kill both of us.”

“Only me. She’d put you in the mailroom of Deception but me?” He squeezed her knee. “Just remember that I love you and I didn’t disappear voluntarily.”

“You are ridiculous and if my nails weren’t still wet I’d throw this pillow at you.”

Chase glanced down at her hands. “It’s too early for your weekly manicure so what’s got you needing to calm your mind?”

Brook Lynn didn’t say anything for a few minutes. Chase sat back and watched as he could see her trying to come up with the right words. “Violet thought we were leaving the country.”

Whatever it was he thought she was going to say, that was not on the list. He lifted his eyebrow in confusion. “She thought what now?”

“Apparently she overheard Granny complaining about us thinking about moving. At some point.”

“That’s it. She’s getting an audition for next season. Your uncle must have a connection we can use.”

“If Dillon does, he’ll never admit it.” Brook Lynn smiled slightly. “Violet was very worried that if we moved, she wouldn’t be there to cheer us up if we got really sad again.”

“Oh”. Sometimes his niece was entirely too perceptive for her own good. If this was what she was like now, he did not envy his brother once she hit her teenage years.

“Yeah. I thought we hid that better from her.” Brook Lynn shook her head. “I guess not.”

“What did you say? Do I need to talk to Finn or Dad?”

“That we got sad sometimes and that was ok. And that we were working on making each other happy when we were sad.”

“Forget the A.” Chase pulled her gently towards him and kissed her forehead. “You get an A plus in therapy.”

“And then we started talking about if we move that of course she would see the place first and she told me that if we set aside a room for her, it was totally fine to kick her out once her cousin came.”

“Ok. I need to talk to Finn.” Chase reached over and took her hand in his, squeezing gently. “How’d you do?”

“I changed the subject that it was time to get pizza and told her to go find you.” She took in a shaky breath. “And then I did what Dr. J taught me. I took a minute and calmed myself down. I didn’t break down in tears. The rest of the day wasn’t ruined. I actually…handled it. And I think…I think I did ok.”

OK? It sounds like you did amazing.” A few months ago she had to leave the room when Violet wanted to watch Tarzan and she couldn’t handle the opening song. “I’m upping your grade to an A plus plus”

“You are ridiculous and that doesn’t exist.”

“Even if it doesn't, I'm still proud of you.”

“Yeah I’m proud of myself too.”

“What was that? Brook Lynn Chase proud of herself for something other than a scheme?” he teased her, enjoying it when he got her to blush a little. “So what does that have to do with your mind racing so much you need to do a manicure?”

“I’m just wondering….if….maybe I can….” She let her words drop off, chewing her bottom lip. Her other tell that she was nervous if she was unable to play with rings, like when her nails were still wet.

“Maybe you can what?” He prompted. “I happen to think you can do anything but I need some specifics to help me out here.”

“If maybe I …or we… can handle discussions about the future. Like real ones. Not like we have been. Not everything yet but maybe…maybe we seriously look at moving.”

“Like how serious are you talking? Like ready to call Lucy and tell her we’re looking serious or not watching Zillow Gone Wild and moving on to House Hunters?”

“We are never going to move on from Zillow Gone Wild so just make sure you note that. And we are never buying that missile silo. Ever. And Granny is apparently already not taking the idea of us moving well, hiring Lucy may result in Deception closing for good.” She took a breath. “No, I mean maybe we go to look at some open houses and really think about where we’d want to move to.”

As steps went it wasn’t the largest, but it was a step. “You mean anywhere that isn’t on the grounds isn’t an actual decision?” He asked with a smile.

“I figured that was more of a given. I mean I think we both know that wherever we move Ma and Olivia…”

“And Tracy.”

“And Granny” She added. “Will be over all the time. They meddle. They can’t help themselves.”

“You come by it honestly.”

“I do not meddle. I insert myself with love.”

“Oh.” Chase nodded. “Correction noted.”

She rested her head against his shoulder. Chase kissed the top of her hair. “I mean I don’t think we want to be too far away from the station or the Metro Court.”

“True. And I know we can’t avoid her opinion but I don’t think we should take any money from your grandmother. If we’re talking our house and our future, I think it should be our money that buys it”

“Our future.” Brook Lynn wrapped her arm around his, squeezing the top of his bicep. “I like talking about our future again.”

“Good. Because I don’t plan on stopping talking about it any time soon”

Chapter Text

Maxie spread out the stack of spreadsheets they were supposed to be reviewing on top of her desk. She looked over at Brook Lynn, who lifted an eyebrow instead of asking what she was doing. Sometimes working with one of your best friends came with perks. Like the ability to use shorthand.

“Spreadsheet psychosis?” Brook Lynn guessed.

“I’ve been looking at them for the past three days to get ready for the shareholders’ meeting. Last night I dreamed in cells. No offense but if I have to look at the ones you just gave me, I’m going to fire you. For real this time.”

“So you’re saying I should get you coffee immediately?” A knock sounded on the door to Maxie’s office. “Come in.”

Wade, the best assistant in the entire world, Brook Lynn was convinced, came in with two coffees straight from Bobbie’s. “Two oak milk lattes” He explained as he handed over both cups.

“Thank you Wade.” Brook Lynn said in a sing-song voice as he left the room, closing the door behind him. She chuckled as she caught the incredulous look on Maxie’s face. “Maxie, you do this every time we have to prepare for financial presentations. You did this when we studied for our algebra finals in high school. I have learned not to let you near numbers without caffeine nearby.”

“God I love you.” Maxie took a grateful sip of her coffee before smiling. “But don’t think that you can distract me with spreadsheets and excellently timed coffee breaks forever. We still have things to discuss.”

“Like the list of influencers I have set for the holiday season product launch?”

“That I am sure is on a spreadsheet. Somewhere.” Maxie waved her hand dismissively over her desk. “No, I mean the fact that you are moving and you apparently aren’t even considering any place close to mine.”

“How did you…never mind.I know how you know. Granny must be complaining to everyone she sees.”

“Not everyone. I’m pretty sure she hasn’t said anything to Wade.” Maxie tilted her head to the side. “Yet.”

“And she wonders why we want to move.” Brook Lynn muttered under her breath. “Maxie there isn’t anything available in your neighborhood.”

“Details. Spinelli could rig up something to make the neighbors with the yappy dog move. He could get their security system to go offline and I would send James and Bailey Lou inside on a sugar rush when they’re gone. The place would be destroyed in seconds. We’ll convince them it’s ghosts and then you and Chase would get a great house at a bargain price. And I get my best friend as my neighbor. Win all around.”

“As much fun as introducing your children to crime sounds, we haven’t made any decisions yet. We haven’t settled on a particular part of town. Just far enough away that Yuri has time to give us warning when the family decides to surprise us with a visit.”

“Would that warning party include me as well?” Sasha’s voice came from the doorway. Turning in her chair, Brook Lynn saw her standing there Annie secure in the stroller in front of her.

“Sasha!” Maxie stood up and made her way over, peering down at Annie before picking the girl up. “What are you doing here?”

“I guess testing out the warning system?” Sasha shrugged as she took a few more steps into the office. “Annie and I were visiting Nina when Cody called. Tracy is on her way over. She apparently has concerns about some of the numbers she’s been seeing.”

“Of course she does.” Maxie rolled her eyes. “But it will just have to wait until I get my fill of this sweet little girl.”

“I would pay good money to see you tell Tracy that.” Sasha laughed.

“Same here.” Brook Lynn smiled. “How are you doing Sasha? Everything still perfect and romantic living with Cody?”

Sasha leaned her head closer to Brook Lynn’s and whispered. “Am I big sap if I say yes?”

Brook Lynn whispered back. “Well I would probably say the same thing about living with Chase and I married him so if you’re a sap, I’m probably worse.”

“Your secret is safe with me.” Sasha giggled as her phone started to ring. “Excuse me. It’s probably Monica with some menu requests for the dinner party she’s throwing next week.” She pulled her phone out of her pocket and stepped out into the hallway to answer it after a quick exchanged glance with Maxie to make sure she was ok with Annie for a few minutes.

“I think baby breaks may be better than coffee breaks” Maxie mused before looking guiltily over at Brook Lynn. “Sorry I didn’t mean…”

“Maxie it’s ok. I know you didn’t mean anything by it. Besides, it's probably the truth. All the oat milk lattes in the world can’t compete with this cutie.” Brook Lynn made her way across the room to stand next to Maxie, smiling down at the baby. Sasha had put a yellow bow on top of her light brown hair, the exact color of the duck on her shirt and the rainboots on her leggings. And there was no doubt about it, Annie had her father’s eyes. “I think we have a future Face of Deception candidate right here.”

“Don’t let Lucy hear you say that. She’ll have research start working on a baby line immediately.” Maxie’s office phone started to ring. “Damn. It’s probably the new buyer at Wyndham’s. And the spreadsheet I need is somewhere on my desk.”

Brook Lynn took a breath. She could do this. She had to do this at some point. And Sasha was just outside. Monica wasn’t her grandmother. She wouldn’t keep her on the phone for hours on end arguing every choice. It was just for a few minutes at the most. “Here give her to me.”

“Are you sure?” Maxie asked softly. “I can just call them back.”

“You can’t and we both know it. And I’m fine. I promise. Just give me Annie and go find that spreadsheet before it’s too late.”

Maxie passed the baby over, but not before carefully watching Brook Lynn settle the little girl against her shoulder. “There. All safe and secure.” Brook Lynn said softly, rubbing Annie’s back. “Oh you are a good snuggler.”

She closed her eyes and fought against the urge to wallow in the grief and the ache of what her life might have been like if the accident hadn’t happened. This should have been her life right now. They should be moving because they had outgrown that tiny postage stamp apartment, not because they had spent way too much time on her family’s property. It wasn’t fair.

Breathing in through her nose and out through her mouth, she tried to remember what Dr. J had told her in one of her sessions. It wasn’t fair. And it would never be fair. And she could get stuck in her anger and grief or she could try to move forward. And moving forward meant moving forward with Chase. And someday, somehow she’d have this moment for herself. Even if right now she didn’t know how or when. Annie cooed softly interrupting her thoughts and Brook Lynn couldn’t help but smile as she looked down at her.

“Yeah you’re a happy girl aren’t you?”

And even though the question was meant for the baby, she couldn’t help but answer it herself.

I am aren’t I? I’m ok and I’m happy.

Chapter Text

“So Brook Lynn” Dr. J said as she sat down in her chair, picking up her notebook from the table next to her. “”There seems to be something on your mind today. Do you want to talk about it?.”

“Isn’t that the entire point of therapy? To talk about what’s on my mind?”

“For the most part. But some days it takes a little more work than others. I am getting the impression this isn’t one of those days I have to really dig to get to the issue.”

Brook Lynn sighed and looked at the ceiling. “I’ve been around Chase too much. I’m losing my poker face. Next thing you know I’ll be just as bad of a liar as he is.”

“We’ve talked about using humor to deflect. It’s not going to work here.” Dr. J smiled encouragingly. “I can wait in silence until you’re ready to talk. Even if it takes the entire session. We’ve done it before and I will be happy to do it again.”

Brook Lynn also remembered what happened after that session. She had to schedule another one for later that same week. Which totally hadn’t caused Chase to become overly concerned. “Something happened the other day. And I’m not entirely sure how to talk about it with Chase.”

“Let’s start at the beginning and we will work our way to how to discuss this.” Dr. J encouraged.

“I was at work and I was supposed to meet with Maxie about budget stuff and Sasha stopped by. With Annie.”

“You and Sasha have seen each other since Annie’s birth.” Dr. J pointed out.

“Yeah I know. But that wasn’t the thing that happened. Maxie was holding Annie and Sasha had to step out of the office to take a phone call. Then Maxie got a phone call and….I ended up holding Annie.”

“I see.” Dr. J nodded understandingly. “Correct me if I’m wrong but that was the first time you’ve held a baby since your accident. And a baby that would be about the same age your child would have been if the accident hadn’t happened.”

Brook Lynn looked down at her feet before looking up with a half smile on her face. “Yeah. Apparently life doesn’t want me to do anything in half measures. All at once or not at all I guess is fate’s motto for me.”

“And how was it? Holding Annie?” Dr. J asked, predictably ignoring her joke.

“That’s just it. I was all prepared to feel this wave of emotions. Or be close to bursting into tears. And it was weird at first but I was able to pull myself together and it was fine. I was even thinking about how this was going to be my future someday even if I didn’t know how. And then Sasha came back in and took Annie back. Granny showed up and I was able to talk about budgets with her.”

“So it sounds like you anticipated feeling overwhelmed. You were able to manage those feelings and continue with the rest of your day at work. What about when you got home? Did you have a response there?”

“Not really? I mean I was thinking about it. But I wasn’t dwelling and I didn’t spend all night crying.”

“Those are all good things. It’s progress.”

“Is it good? Shouldn’t I have been useless for the rest of the day? I shouldn’t have been able to go back to talking about budgets of all things like nothing happened.”

“Would you have rather had to leave work because you were too overwhelmed emotionally to continue?” Dr. J questioned.

“No.” Brook Lynn sighed. “I don’t know. I just…” She fell silent trying to find the words to explain the thoughts racing through her head.

“You just what?”

“When Sasha had Annie, I was terrified someone was going to ask me to hold her. And that I would just freak out and scare this baby. Who didn’t do anything but be born. I didn’t want to do that. I could never live with myself if I had scared her.”

“That was a reasonable concern considering your mixed emotions about her arrival. I know you were happy for your friends but you were reminded of your own loss.”

“And then today….” Brook Lynn ran her hand through her hair. “It sounds so stupid in my head.”

“Our thoughts aren’t stupid and neither are our reactions to them.” Dr. J said supportively. “Just say them and we can discuss them.”

“I almost…I almost wish I had freaked out. Because if I didn’t…..”

“Then it’s like you didn’t suffer a loss.” Dr.J guessed.

“Yeah. I’ve felt stuck for so long and I’ve wanted to not feel that way. I want to be able to look forward to the future and some day, not today exactly but someday figure out how Chase and I can have that same moment. And I want that. I know we both do. But at the same time….what if this was just a fluke? What if the next time I hold her I do freak out? Maybe I’m not ready for the next steps like I thought I was.”

Dr. J let the admission sit in the silence of the room for a few minutes. Brook Lynn could feel her mind start to race again the longer the therapist stayed silent. Finally she spoke.

“Brook Lynn, when you lost your great grandfather was there anything that really reminded you of him? That when you thought of it, you could feel yourself start to cry?”

“Thanksgiving pizza. Ma made sure to send one to my dad that year. And normally Grandma is all about the turkey but that year she made me a pizza. I spent all of that Thanksgiving on the verge of tears.”

“And yet today I would guess you can eat your Thanksgiving pizza and not spend the entire day crying. And some years, like years when you lose another close family member you may again. That’s part of grief. It doesn’t really fully go away because the loss is always with us in one way or another. And your reaction or hypothetical future reaction to it doesn’t mean you aren’t ready to take on the next steps in your journey. “

“So you don’t think I’m rushing things?”

“Only you can really know that but in my professional opinion? No. You’re not rushing anything. You and Chase are moving at a speed that is right for the both of you. Which is what you both wanted.’

Brook Lynn nodded and took in a deep breath. “She really was an excellent cuddler. Maybe I was just reacting to that.”

“Now that…that I can’t help you with.”

Chapter Text

The scent of apple pie greeted Chase as he came in the door. While Brook Lynn didn’t object the way her mother or Olivia did to using store bought pasta when necessary, she did insist on baking instead of buying desserts. And there was usually a reason why she was baking. She didn’t just do it on a whim. There would be too much damage to her nails to repair if she did. Not to mention the kitchen in their old apartment wasn’t big enough to accommodate everything a baker would want. A fact he planned on correcting when they actually started looking at houses in person and not just online.

As much as he appreciated the effort, he was more curious about the reason why Brook Lynn felt the need to bake. Only one way to find out. “Babe?”

She came out from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a towel. “Hey” She smiled softly before kissing his cheek. “How was work?”

“It was fine. Looks like you’ve been busy today.”

“I had some time after my session with Dr. J so I decided to make dinner and bake a pie for dessert.”

Chase furrowed his brow in confusion. “Wasn’t your session first thing this morning?” So clearly this was baking to clear her head and work out some problem. “You didn’t go into work like you planned?” He took her hand and sat them both down on the couch. “What happened? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong.” She stressed with a slight eye roll. “It’s just Dr. J gave me a lot to think about after our session and I knew I was going to be worthless trying to figure out budgets while I was thinking about it so I played hooky.” She offered a sly smile. “I mean what good is working with your best friend and for your grandmother if you don’t take advantage of it once in a while?”

Well it couldn’t be that bad if she was willing to make jokes, he figured. But still it was better to make sure. “And this thing that you needed time to think about, is it a good thing or a bad thing?”

“Good thing. Definitely a good thing.”

Chase let out a sigh of relief. “Is it something you’re wanting to share or do I need to wait?” And he’d happily wait forever if she asked him to, so long as it stayed a good thing.

Brook Lynn pushed a piece of hair that had escaped her ponytail behind her ear before letting out a deep breath. Chase reached over and squeezed her hand, trying to let her know that she didn’t have to tell him anything if she wasn’t ready to. She closed her eyes briefly before training them on the pile of Panda’s toys on the floor. “I was at work the other day and Sasha came by to warn us that Tracy was on her way over. She had been visiting Nina and had Annie with her.”

“Oh.” Chase said softly. He had seen Sasha and Annie in passing. They both had. Even on an estate as large as the Quartermaine’s it wasn’t possible to completely avoid someone. But usually they could guess when they would see them both.

“It was fine. That wasn’t the part that I needed to talk to Dr. J about.” Brook Lynn said quickly. “You know how Maxie is about picking up babies, so of course she picked up Annie immediately.”

“Of course she did.”

“Monica called Sasha with some questions about a dinner she’s holding so Sasha left the office for a minute. And naturally that’s when Maxie’s phone started ringing. So I ended up with Annie while they were both on the phone.”

“”Oh wow.” Chase let out a soft whistle. “That’s…..”

“The first time I held Annie? Yeah. I’m not sure who was more surprised her or me? Or Sasha when she came back in.”

“And how’d that go? Was everything…ok?” OK didn’t feel like the right word but it was the best he could do at this point.

“I was waiting to freak out. Or to start crying. But I didn’t do any of those things. I was just able to enjoy holding her.” Her voice held a trace of amazement as if she still couldn’t quite believe it.

“Babe, that’s great.” He smiled at her before leaning over to kiss her forehead.

“Yeah it was.” Brook Lynn smiled softly at the memory. “Don’t get me wrong I wanted to talk about it with Dr. J and. You….but there was something else too.”

“Ok and what’s the something else?”

“For the first time since the accident, I could actually see a child as part of my future. I mean not in a yes we both want this but it’s not the time to discuss it sort of way. But I could really see it. I didn’t know how it was going to happen but that part didn’t bother me. I could think about it and not be completely afraid of what could go wrong.”

Chase felt like the world had begun to move in slow motion. Of all the possible scenarios he could have imagined that would have caused Brook Lynn to not go into work, this hadn’t even made the list. This moment felt incredibly similar to when he decided to hell with his plan and just propose in the Quartermaine kitchen. He took his own deep breath, the same way he had taught his wife to do all those years ago. “So just to be clear, what exactly are you saying?”

“I know we decided that we would talk about the kids stuff later down the line because I wasn’t ready to talk about it. And I guess what was I thinking is that I think I will be ready to talk about it. But maybe not right this second.” She shot him a nervous glance. “What I was thinking, is that maybe after we figure out the house stuff? Then we can talk about it? I mean if you’re ready to talk about it that is.”

If he was being honest with himself, there was a part of Chase that had almost convinced that tiny corner of his heart this discussion would never come. Hearing her words, he could feel that sliver break off and die. He smiled at her, feeling his own grow wider as she smiled at him.

“I think…that is a plan I can live with.”

Chapter Text

At the start of all this, if someone had said she would find the loud commotion of a busy bowling alley on a Saturday afternoon calming, Brook Lynn would have immediately offered that clearly mentally ill person Dr. J’s card. They needed professional help badly. But as she sat down on the squeaky plastic bench that she still wasn’t convinced had been cleaned at any point in her lifetime next to Rachel, Brook Lynn had to admit she did feel calmer here than almost anywhere else, save the guest house when it was just her and Chase.

“So how's house hunting going?” Rachel asked as she raised her bottle of Diet Mountain Dew to her lips. “Did you call Lisa like I told you?”

“We did. And she seems great.” Brook Lynn smiled. Once she found out they were looking to move, Rachel had not been shy about offering her help, including giving them the name of a realtor, who happened to live down the street from her and George. “She’s taking us to some open houses next week.”

“Not during our match right?”

“We would never.” Brook Lynn promised. “They’re all on Sunday.”

“You know if you meet Lisa at her house, when you’re done we could all go out to dinner and discuss your options.”

“It’s our first round of visits. No decisions will be made then. But maybe when we’re further along in the process we’ll do that.” The telltale roar of arriving children caused Brook Lynn to turn her head towards the shoe rental. The kids were different but she recognized a few of the adults from the previous month. Another adoption meet up. “They’re doing bowling again? I thought you said they tried to do different things each month?”

“They usually do. A reservation must have fell through.” Rachel stood up. “Watch out boys. I feel a second strike coming on.”

“Sure sure.” Chase laughed as he took her place next to Brook Lynn. He looked over his wife’s shoulders and spotted the crowd that had her attention. “Another meet up?”

“Yeah. Now that I know that’s what’s happening, I just can’t look at it as this fun thing that kids are doing.” She sighed. “It just feels so sad. And not that I know anything about adoption aside from Leo's but do kids really dream of meeting adoptive parents at a bowling alley?”

“Probably not. But it is something fun for them to do.” Chase reasoned. “I’m grabbing the next round at the snack bar. You need anything?”

“I’m good but thanks babe.” She smiled as he hopped over the back of the bench and headed towards the snack bar. Sometimes she wondered how her husband acted in high school and other times she didn’t have to because she could see it right in front of her. It was way too easy to imagine Chase doing that exact same move while hanging out with members of his baseball team.

“So did we make any life altering decisions while I was gone?” Rachel asked as she sat back down.

“Not unless you think turning down the nachos a life altering decision.”

“Probably a life saving one.” Rachel allowed with a grin. She patted Brook Lynn on the knee. “I know you two are just looking and I’m not trying to put any pressure on you but there are a couple of great houses on our street. Just perfect for a young couple like yourselves starting out.”

“And close to you is just a bonus I’m sure.” Brook Lynn teased.

“Hey when you eventually join the league…”

“Which we aren’t.”

Rachel gave her a skeptical look. “You say no, but we both know that your husband will say yes. Anyway if you live in our neighborhood, we can carpool to league night. And when those two get going we can leave them here. And they’ll be fine.” Rachel looked over her shoulder and grinned. “And by the looks of it you’ll have every kid for like three blocks hanging out at your house.”

Brook Lynn turned and followed Rachel’s gaze. Sure enough Chase was talking to a child that probably walked over from the adoption meet up. Or what was probably more likely, he had seen the kid standing by himself and went over to talk to him. She shook her head. At least once one of the social workers had recognized Chase from the station and so she was sure there was some sort of memo that it was fine if he was seen talking with the kids at these events. And judging by the look one of the social workers was currently giving him, if he wasn’t careful they really would be bringing a kid back to the guest house with them.

“Excuse me. If I don’t do something then we’re never finishing this game.” Brook Lynn stood up and made her way over the snack bar. Once she got close enough she slipped her arm through Chase’s. “Hey you. Did you get lost or something?”

“Sorry.” Chase said sheepishly. “Joshua and I were just talking baseball and I lost track of time.”

“It’s always baseball.” She shook her head and smiled at the boy that looked to her to about ten. “Don’t tell me he was trying to recruit you to root for his horrible Red Sox.”

Joshua grinned, revealing a crooked front tooth. “Never. Yankees all the way.”

“Smart boy.” She grinned at him. “But I think someone’s looking for you” She pointed behind him at the social worker that had been watching the interaction with interest. Joshua shrugged his shoulders and ran back to the rest of the kids with a quick look back. Brook Lynn moved herself in front of Chase. “I thought we agreed to not discuss the whole kids question until we figured out where we’re going to live.”

“So you want me to just ignore a kid that says hi?” Chase asked with a grin.

“I know that would be impossible for you. Just maybe don’t be so obviously great with kids that social workers are clearly planning on passing applications for adoption to us as we leave.”

“Would that really be so bad?”

There was a small voice in the back of her head telling her it really wouldn’t. But it wasn’t the time they had agreed on and she certainly wasn’t going to start having this particular conversation in rented shoes. Brook Lynn shook her head. “Nice try. Bowling now. That discussion later. Although if Rachel has her way, we’ll be moving in next door to them tomorrow.”

“Yeah I’m not getting in between Rachel and Maxie in that fight.” Chase shook his head.

“That’s my super smart detective.”

Chapter Text

It was hard to tell who was more nervous. Allison sat on the couch, clutching a pillow in her lap. Panda gave her a leery side eye before moving closer to where Brook Lynn was currently pacing with her phone next to her ear. “Yes. The new direction is a departure but I really think….ok….yes I see.”

Allison let out a groan into the pillow. Brook Lynn motioned with her hand for the other woman to be quiet. “No we are in complete agreement. Absolutely. I’ll talk with my client and we’ll get right on it. Thank you so much.”

“They hate it.” Allison groaned as Brook Lynn finally put her phone down. “The label thinks its too risky. They are cancelling my contract and I have to pay back all the advances they ever gave me.”

“Ok I think Chase may have a point about us hanging out together too much because that is very much something I would say.” Brook Lynn sat down next to her on the couch, Panda trailing behind her. “And you couldn’t be more wrong.”

“They liked it?” Allison asked excitedly. “They liked the demos?”

“I wouldn’t say like…”Brook Lynn paused before breaking into a giant smile. “More like loved. They loved them. They want you in the studio immediately.”

Allison threw the pillow into the air, causing Panda to go running for the kitchen. “I told you your songs were brilliant! I told you everyone would love them.”

“Ok and now you sound like Chase.” she laughed as she picked the pillow off the floor. “And it’s our songs. Not just me.”

“Oh please. I made a few suggestions but it was all you and we both know it.” Allison scoffed. “So I’m assuming since you are the greatest manager/songwriter of all time that you have a studio and producer on stand by?”

“The producer? Yes. The studio? Also yes mainly because it’s on the producer’s property. The catch is where are you going to stay because finding a place to stay in Nashville on short notice is a nightmare. But I still have a few aces up my sleeve yet.”

“Nashville?” Allison sat back on the couch. “You think Nashville is the best place?”

“Well it’s where the best producer for this new sound of yours is. I’m sorry, did you and Krissy have plans that I didn’t know about?”

Allison waved her hand in dismissal. “No. It’s not that. Even if we did, Krissy would understand. I was just surprised is all but I trust you. And speaking of trust….”

“This doesn’t sound like it’s going to end well for me.”

“Not true. I have brilliant ideas!”

“Like being a surrogate when I never asked you?”

“Number one I told you that was an offer that you could take at any time so you wouldn’t have to ask. And number two I stand by it being a brilliant idea.”

“Alli I love you, you know I do but come on. Even if Chase and I were ready to have kids” She held up her hand, anticipating Allison’s interruption. “And we aren’t. We are almost ready to talk about it but we aren’t there yet. But even if we were I just…I can’t see us using a surrogate. I’m sorry.”

Silence fell between them and Brook Lynn felt her mind start to race with worst case scenarios. She closed her eyes and forced herself to take a breath. It was better to be honest than avoid the conversation, she reminded herself. “I love you for suggesting it. I do. But Alli, every surrogacy this town has ever known as ended in a total shit show. And I don’t want that for us. Krissy and Molly barely speak and they used to be so close. And I know you don’t think it would happen to us but I don’t want to risk it. And we haven’t made any decisions yet but this? It just doesn’t feel right.”

She squeezed her eyes shut. “Do you hate me?”

Allison didn’t say anything for what felt like forever. Brook Lynn opened a single eye to see her shaking her head and trying not to laugh at her. “It’s not funny!” She protested.

“Oh it is a little bit. You were acting like you were had to tell me Krissy was leaving me for you. And if that was happening then you are so right Nashville is the perfect place for me to sing about that experience.” Allison shoved Brook Lynn’s shoulder with her hand. “Come on, it was an offer. And while I pretended otherwise, I always knew you could say no. Honestly I always thought if you did say no, you’d make Chase tell me.”

“If I did that, he’d end up agreeing just so he didn’ make you feel bad.”

“True but that’s why he’s Chase.” Allison nodded with a smile. “It was an offer. It wasn’t an ultimatum. And when you have that conversation with Chase I think whatever you choose it has to feel right for both of you. And if me being your surrogate doesn’t feel right, then it’s not right.”

Brook Lynn tilted her head. “I’m sorry when did you go to therapy with Dr. J?”

“Not with Dr. J but you have met my mother right? Believe me I’ve had therapists that want to write books about that relationship.”

“Fair enough.” She laughed before grabbing Allison’s hands in her own. “I really do love you for the offer. You know that right?”

“Of course I do.”

“And I may regret this but what brilliant plan were you referring to earlier?”

“I already know the name of this album. And I want it to be a surprise for you.”

“I’m your manager. How can I talk with the label without knowing the name?”

“Because you’re brilliant and creative. Besides it’s so perfect that I know when I do tell you, you’ll agree with me. But I know you, if I tell you now, it’s going to be like every song we worked on. Me saying it’s brilliant over and over until I finally wear you down.”

“What are the odds I’m going to get this perfect title out of you before the album is done.”

“Probably about the same as you letting me help name this baby whenever and however they arrive.”

“Yeah that’s not going to happen.”

“Then I guess you just have to trust me.”

“I guess I do.”

Chapter Text

He wasn’t even sure it was possible for just a knock to sound annoyed, but if he was put under oath and cross examined by Robert Scorpio himself, Chase would swear that this particular knock did. Which of course meant it could only be one person. Taking a deep breath, he put on his most patient smile as he opened the door. “Tracy.” He was unsurprised as she walked her way past him and into the living room, Panda wisely running to the kitchen for cover. “Come on in.”

Tracy looked around the room, before finally looking at him. Folding her hands together, she asked “And where is Brook Lynn?”

“Maxie insisted on a spa day so she’s out right now.” Chase explained. “But I can text her and tell her to come by the house on her way back if you want.”

“There’s no need for that. I just wanted to make sure we wouldn’t be interrupted. I came to see you.”

Chase prided himself on having a decent poker face. After all, he couldn’t interrogate a suspect if he looked shocked at everything they were saying. But he was pretty sure if Brook Lynn could see his face right now she would claim that she was right and his stories about spending time at the casinos when he was younger were all lies. Because right now he didn’t even need to look in the mirror to know shock was written all over his face. “Me? You came to see me?”

His relationship with Tracy had come a long way from her chastising him in the middle of the Metro Court for how he had treated Brook Lynn, but it was never what he would consider close. They would make small talk but he could probably count on one hand the number of times they had talked without anyone else with them. Now that he thought about it, he was almost positive the last time that happened was when she accidentally told him about his dad’s ALS diagnosis.

“If I waited until my granddaughter was here, she’d never let this conversation happen.” Tracy declared as she sat down on the couch. Chase followed her lead and sat down in the chair. Always a good idea to keep some distance between them, he figured.

“And what conversation is that?”

“It has been pointed out to me that the two of you are serious about this plan to move out. And while I still think there are other options than moving away from family….”

“Tracy I knew it was you at the door because you and Ned are the only ones who knock. And Ned’s knock doesn’t sound annoyed.”

Tracy paused to nod her head slightly at his point. “Be that as it may, I still have concerns about this plan and if I talk to Brook Lynn about my concerns, she will just say everything is fine and for me to mind my own business.”

“Which you clearly aren’t going to do.”

“Brook Lynn’s well being is my business.” Tracy pointed out. “But it is also your’s. Which is why I am here. Having this incredibly productive conversation.”

He and Tracy may never see eye to eye, but over the last few years they had come to respect the other’s love for Brook Lynn. Chase decided he’d go along with this conversation, just to see where it all would lead. “Ok what questions do you have? But I’m telling you right now if it’s about money…”

“No. No. I learned my lesson on that after the debacle with the pre nup. How the two of you deal with money is your business.” Tracy waved her hand. “Is she ok?”

“Brook Lynn is fine. The physical therapist cleared her months ago. She’s even able to keep up with Panda at the dog park, when she wants to.”

“No no. I don’t mean physically. With the amount of money we’ve given that hospital over the years they would know better than to end her physical therapy before it was time. I mean emotionally. All the answers I ever get are that she’s fine, everything’s ok. Those are the answers she’d give her father over the phone when she was a teenager living with her mother.”

She would deny it if he ever pointed it out to her,but Chase could recognize the worry in Tracy’s eyes. He’d be lying if he said he hadn’t seen a similar reflection on his own face over the last year. He leaned forward slightly. “I’m not going to tell you what we talk about in therapy if that’s what you’re getting at.”

“It’s been pointed out several times that asking about that was not a good idea and would probably lead to Brook Lynn telling me even less than she does now”

“Glad you’re actually listening to my dad.” Chase teased. There was really only one person who would have told her that. “But I can tell you this. She still has bad days. We both do. But they aren’t as frequent. And we’re getting better at handling them when they happen. And a couple of times we’ve been able to keep some situations from becoming bad days.”

He moved himself to the edge of the chair, as close as he thought Tracy would allow him to get when she was being vulnerable. Or as vulnerable as Tracy Angelica Quartermaine would ever allow herself to be seen in public. “And I know that one of the reasons we’re relatively ok right now is because you insisted…”

“Suggested.”

“Closer to manipulated but I’m trying to be nice here. But because we were here with not only you but everyone else nearby, we got to here. And here is a pretty good place to be.”

“And you’re not worried all this progress will disappear if you move?”

“I’ve thought about it. But I trust Brook Lynn to tell me if she’s struggling. And she trusts me to do the same thing. I like to think we’re better at recognizing that too. And we have better skills at handling it as well.”

“Yes the mysterious therapy exercises.”

Chase chuckled to himself. One day he’d tell Tracy exactly what they were doing and enjoy the hell out of the look on her face. “Among other things. But if I thought she was putting on a show for my benefit about moving out, Tracy trust me we wouldn’t even have started talking about it.” He looked Tracy directly in her eyes. “I’m not going to let her fall apart.”

Tracy nodded several times. A brief look of determination mixed with acceptance flashed across her face. It was an expression Chase had seen Brook Lynn make many many times. Tracy stood up and put her hand on his shoulder before he could follow suit. “I always knew you were the one who would look out for her.”

Chase sat blinking in shock at the sincerity in her voice. It was probably the closest she had ever come to saying she approved of him. He almost wanted to grab his phone and make her say it again into the voice recording so he could convince Brook Lynn it actually happened.

Tracy straightened her shoulders. “But if you think you’re going to convince my granddaughter to live in some tiny house in the middle of a forest you have got another lecture coming.”

And the moment was over, Chase laughed quietly as he shook his head. “Trust me. Brook Lynn would never let it happen.”

“Because my granddaughter is no fool.” Tracy nodded.

“Just like her grandmother.”

Chapter Text

The cold snap was unexpected but since it lead to cuddling under blankets on the couch, Brook Lynn was far from complaining. Her feet were curled up on the couch with Panda sitting on top of them. With a fire going in the fireplace and Chase’s arm around her, she was pretty sure there wasn’t a better place to be tonight.

“Add fireplace to the list of wants” She sighed as she leaned her head against Chase’s shoulder as he started the movie they had agreed to watch.

“Bold of you to assume I didn’t already know that.” Chase teased. “I know who I married.”

Chuckling quietly to herself, Brook Lynn closed her eyes for a moment. During her last session with Dr. J they had discussed her being more aware of little moments and being able to appreciate them when they came. This was one of those perfect little moments. They weren’t doing anything major but she felt more content right now than she had all week. Panda scooted up her leg just enough to nudge his head under her hand. She opened her eyes to look down at him. “Oh I’m sorry was I not paying enough attention to you Panda?”

“Well he knows who number one on your list is.”

“You really aren’t going to ever let that go are you?”

“Probably not.” Chase shook his head with a grin. “Before I forget, Dad called today. He wants to meet both of us for lunch tomorrow. Are you able to do that?”

“I can make it happen. Did he say why? Is there something wrong?”

“He just said he wanted to see us and was it a crime that he wanted to spend time with his son and favorite daughter in law?”

“Well since I am the favorite I can’t exactly say no.” Brook Lynn teased before turning serious. “But it didn’t sound like anything was wrong right? I know he had his specialist visit the other day. And if something was wrong he’d want Finn there too right? Is Finn going to be there?”

“Finn isn’t coming.” Chase confirmed. “And he saw Dad right after his appointment this week so there weren't any new symptoms or anything getting worse. I’d tell you not to worry but I know that’s not going to happen.”

“You know I love your dad. It’s just surprise invitations are more Granny’s style than his.” She sat up a little bit. “Speaking of, has she returned since the last time?”

“Tracy’s version of surprise invitations is her inviting herself.” Chase pointed out. “No she hasn’t and I told you, she wasn’t that bad. She’s just really concerned about you.”

“She just wants to make sure that I’m not going to arrive late to Deception when we move out.” Brook Lynn scoffed. “She can see perfectly well that I’m fine.”

“So can Lois and Olivia but that doesn’t stop them from hovering over you either.” He cocked his eyebrow at her. “And yes she knows you’re fine physically. She was more concerned about you being fine emotionally.”

“I think you have Granny confused with mom and Olivia.”

“You know full well that Tracy loves you. She just has a very Tracy way of showing it. And I know I will regret this but I think she should come with us when we look at houses.”

“Who are you and what have you done with my husband?” Brook Lynn put the back of her hand against his forehead. “Are you running a fever? Do I need to get you to GH because you’ve been poisoned again?”

“Ha ha. Very funny.” Chase batted her hand away. “I’m serious. I know she’ll be judgemental and find fault with everything that we look at.”

“Exactly. Which is why asking her to come along is an insane idea. Not to mention she’ll take every opportunity to try to keep us living here.”

“Babe, I'm pretty sure we could agree to live here in the guest house and she’d still take every chance to try to get us to move to the main house. But as much as she’s going to criticize, some of the criticism might be valid.” She must have had an incredulous look on her face because Chase held up his hand and quickly added “I said some. Some. Not all.”

“Ok so you want her to come along because while she’s being judgemental she may accidentally make a good point?” Brook Lynn asked skeptically.

“I also think she’ll be less likely to issue a surprise invitation to come on over if she feels ok about where we live. And if she feels like you’re going to be ok there. I am willing to risk being wrong but I think that if we found something you truly loved? She wouldn’t have the heart to criticize it.” Chase paused for a second. “Well she would but it would be more like what she says about Monica’s taste in landscaping. We both know she doesn’t really hate it.”

“This would also open the door to Ma and Olivia wanting to come too. I just want to point that out.”

“Lois and Olivia can be reasoned with. Somewhat. With Ned’s help at least. We can probably keep them away until we look at some place for the second time or something.” Chase took her hand in his. “I think Tracy just wants to be included. You know it still drives her crazy that she doesn’t know what our therapy exercises really are. Dad said at least half the time they play backgammon she’s throwing out ideas on what we could be really doing. As much as pretends otherwise she really doesn’t like it when you shut her out”

“I’m not shutting her out.” Brook Lynn protested.

“I know you aren’t but I think that’s what she feels.” Chase smiled at her. “I’ll even give you full rights to say I told you so when I start complaining about her feedback.”

“Full rights are tempting but what if when we have lunch with your dad we run this idea by him? If Gregory says it’s a good idea, I’ll do it.”

“That’s just because you think you’ll convince him not to.”

“Well I am the favorite.”

Chapter Text

Gregory chuckled to himself as Brook Lynn burst through the doors of Bobbie’s, talking a mile a minute on her phone. It was a constant that it didn’t matter where she was, Brook Lynn would make an entrance. And a chaotic one at that. He was fairly certain the only times he had seen her walk into a space calmly and on time was her own wedding.

“I’m so sorry I’m late.” She apologized as she sat down. “I would explain but it is best summed up in one word. Lucy.”

“”Say no more.” Gregory held up his hand. “And don’t worry. Harrison called a few minutes ago. He’s running behind too.”

“Obviously we aren’t going to tell him I was only slightly behind schedule myself.”

“Obviously. So while we wait, how’s the house hunt going? I heard about your offer to take Tracy along.”

“That was your son’s idea not mine. And we’re still at the looking online phase. There are a few contenders but still working all that out. Because you know once we do start going in person, not only my grandmother but Violet will want to come as well.”

“Violet will want to come where?” Chase asked as he neared the table. He kissed Brook Lynn’s cheek before he sat down. “Sorry I’m late.”

“It’s fine.” Gregory smiled. “I’ll never turn down time spent with my favorite daughter in law.”

“I was suspicious before but now I know you’re trying to get me on your side.” Brook Lynn declared. “What’s going on? Is there some new news from your doctor? Do I need to get Finn over here? Cause I’ll do it.”

“There’s no need to call Finn. And there isn’t any change in my prognosis. Or symptoms. If there was, I certainly wouldn’t tell you at Bobbie’s.” Gregory looked back and forth at their worried faces and held up his hands. “I promise I just wanted to take you both to lunch. And maybe discuss something regarding your house hunting.”

“Again any discussions about how taking my grandmother along is a terrible idea is directed to your son.” Brook Lynn placed her napkin on her lap, her teasing smile giving away the fact she didn’t think it was as crazy of an idea as she protested it was.

“Tracy was coming along whether or not I invited her. I just saved us hours of arguments.” Chase protested.

“Well what I wanted to talk with you about doesn’t involve Tracy.Although I am sure she will have her opinion and will make sure that I know about it when she hears what I want to do.” Chase and Brook Lynn gave him quizzical looks as they waited for him to continue. “I want to take care of the down payment for the house.”

“Dad…..” Chase looked slightly stunned.

“That’s incredibly generous.” Brook Lynn continued for him. “But we can’t take your money.”

“You can consider it my delayed contribution to your wedding, since your grandmother refused to let me help with that.” Gregory continued. “This is an important next step for the two of you and I want to help.”

Harrison had told him they had agreed to find a place and then discuss children. He was happy for them and the progress they had made. But Gregroy would be lying to himself if he didn’t consider the fact that he would never see Harrison and Brook Lynn having children. Or if he did that he wouldn’t be much of a presence in the lives of his grandchildren. He’d never rush them or push them into doing something they weren’t ready for but it was the reality of ALS, as much as they all hated it.

He may not be able to be a physical presence in his grandchildren’s lives, but he could still be there. Especially if he helped with buying the house they would grow up in.

“Monica hasn’t exactly been charging us rent.” Brook Lynn pointed out gently. “The down payment isn’t a problem.”

“Then you can use the money towards your kids. Whatever that means.”

“Dad….” Chase took a breath. “Thank you. But we’re not going to take your money. You’ll need that.”

“So will the two of you.”

“But not now.” Brook Lynn said sweetly. “We want to do this together. This will really be the first place that is just ours from the start and I think we both agree that it should be like that from the start. I mean Tracy offered to buy the entire house and we turned her down. So if we turned her down and took you up on your extremely generous offer, I do not want to be responsible for all the yelling she will do at you.”

“I can handle Tracy.”

“I know you can, which is why I had a request of my own.” Brook Lynn smiled triumphantly as if he had played perfectly into her hands. Which for all Gregory knew, he had. “Since Tracy and most likely Violet will insist on coming with us, I at least was hoping you’d come as well.”

“That’s a great idea.” Chase nodded. “You should come too. I mean we want you to feel comfortable there too so we’ll need your opinion.”

“If it’s your house then why do I need to be comfortable there?”

“Well as much as Granny likes to claim that the apartment was tiny…”

“And yet you could still never find anything.” Chase teased.

“Finn’s place isn’t much bigger.” Brook Lynn continued ignoring her husband. “And Violet’s only going to get bigger. We weren’t an option before but when the time comes that you need more space, then we want to be an option.”

Gregory could feel his eyes start to water. He rubbed his thumb against his palm to stop himself from crying. He wasn’t entirely sure how this conversation went from him offering money to buy a house to the two of them planning for him to move in with them down the line. There were a lot of things he regretted from his marriage to Jackie but the fact that it led him to having this son and daughter in law wasn’t on the list.

“Plus you can stop Tracy from nitpicking every little thing about any place we show the slightest interest in.” Chase added.

“Well you don’t invite her to the first tour. You wait until the second tour. Then you’ll already know what she’ll make comments about and can prepare.” Gregory pointed out.

“See? This is exactly why we need you.” Brook Lynn smiled.

“We’ll see if you say that when she finds things you didn’t see the first time.”

“Granny criticized the decor while touring Buckingham Palace.” Brook Lynn scoffed. “She will always find fault. But you being there….she’ll soften it. At least a little. Please say you’ll come.”

Harrison had told him once he found it impossible to tell Brook Lynn no when she pleaded with him with her eyes looking hopeful. Gregory could only assume that it was similar to how she looked now. Like father, like son he supposed.

“Of course I’ll come.”

Chapter Text

“Ok you were wrong.”

If a person could raise an eyebrow elegantly, Brook Lynn was convinced there were only three people on Earth who could manage it. Her great grandmother, her grandmother and Dr. J. Of the three, only Dr. J would also have an amused expression on her face while doing so.

“I am wrong frequently but I’m afraid I’m going to need some more details about this particular instance.”

“You said we were ready to possibly stop therapy. Going house hunting with my grandmother is proof that is not true.”

“The key word was possibly and I still stand by it. But I take it the house hunting is running into some difficulties.”

“My grandmother is impossible. Not that I didn’t tell Chase that when he suggested this plan but really she is on a whole other level.”

“I have a feeling your grandmother is reacting from a place of concern and she expresses it by couching it as criticism. I think we both know someone who avoids her emotions by using humor.” Dr. J pointed out gently.

“I don’t know who you are talking about.” Brook Lynn shook her head. “And I know she’s just concerned. That’s the whole reason why Chase came up with this idea. So that she could be less concerned. But it doesn’t mean I have to like it.”

“Exactly. Your grandmother is having a reaction to you moving out and you’re having a reaction to that reaction.”

“Why does that sound like the start of a horrible joke therapists tell each other?”

Dr. J chuckled. “You are closer to the truth than you know. But my point is that having reactions are normal. For both of you. And the only thing that you can control is your reaction. I have a feeling you could make every concession in the world to your grandmother and she still wouldn’t be happy unless you were going along with her preferred choice. Which sounds like is staying exactly where you are.”

“Which isn’t an option.” Brook Lynn shook her head as she adjusted herself on the couch. “It’s the prenup all over again.” Seeing the questioning look on Dr. J’s face, she continued. “My grandmother took it upon herself to have the family lawyers write up a prenup and sent it to Chase to sign without telling either of us anything about it.”

“And I’m going to guess that did not go over well.”

“So not well that Chase actually interrupted my shopping for a wedding dress.” Brook Lynn sighed, rubbing her forehead. “If I had been getting married to anyone but Chase the wedding would have been over before it even started.”

“And after you found out about the prenup, how did the two of you handle it?”

“I mean we did actually have to talk about money, which we had been avoiding. But we ended up contacting our own lawyers and doing it ourselves.”

“A sensible decision. And how did your grandmother take that?”

“Well after my mother, Chase’s dad, and his brother all pointed out to her that it was more than a little controlling to do it without even talking to us first, she was ok with us doing our own.”

“And now I’m understanding why you asked Gregory to come with you as well.” Dr. J nodded with a smile. “You are more ready to end therapy than you give yourself credit for. I know neither one of you intends to give Tracy the last word in your decision but this compromise gives her the illusion of some control and Gregory provides a way to reign in concern. Well done to the both of you.”

“It still feels like a recipe for a disaster.”

“That is always a possibility. But when you both found out about the prenup, did you have the discussion about what to do with it in front of her?”

“No. Gregory helped get everyone out of the room and we talked alone.”

“And you came to a solution that worked for you and everyone else went along with it because of that. And that’s the important thing I want you to remember. In the end, whatever decision the two of you make, your families will respect it. Because it’s right for the two of you. And I have a strong suspicion that if your grandmother sees that you are truly ok with a decision, then she won’t be as critical as she’s being.”

“You haven’t met Tracy. She may ease up but she will never stop being critical.”

“And that’s probably part of the reason why you love her. And if this is her typical reaction, and it sounds like it is, then we can work on ways to help your reaction. You can’t control your grandmother but you can control how you react to her.”

“I know that and I try. I just worry that I’m going to let her get under my skin and I’ll start seeing flaws everywhere. And then we’ll never leave the guesthouse and it will just feel like we’re in limbo again.”

“Tell me more about that.” Dr, J settled back in her chair.

“We never wanted to move back to the estate. That was never the plan, despite Chase’s jokes about me using it as a second closet. We were talking about getting a bigger place before we even knew I was pregnant. And then there was the accident and we moved back in while I physically recovered. And I’m grateful. Believe me. But the longer we stay, the longer I feel….that we haven’t made the progress that we have. It feels like if we stay, I don't know maybe this doesn’t make any sense but it feels like we’re putting the training wheels back on Violet’s bike after she’s been riding by herself for weeks.”

“It makes complete sense. And you’re right this is an important step for both of you in your road to recovery. It’s a stressful situation and a good test to see how the two of you navigate that stress. But it’s a situation that takes time and I don’t want you to rush through just to get your grandmother off your back or because you’re afraid you’re going to stay in the guest house forever. Take your time. Communicate. And I think you’ll find when you land on the right decision, everything else will just fall into place.”

“If it doesn’t do I get a free session?”

“I’m so confident I’m right, I’ll make it two.”

Chapter Text

Chase wasn’t entirely sure how realtor’s got commissions but Lisa deserved a bonus. No matter how many times she had promised she liked working with first time home buyers and all the concerns that came with it, she probably wasn’t prepared for the exact baggage he and Brook Lynn brought to the table.

Namely the baggage named Tracy Angelica Quartermaine, who was currently closing the cabinets of the kitchen of the mid century split level they were looking at as if they had been created to personally offend her.

“There is flower contact paper on the shelves.” she huffed, raising her eyebrow as she looked at Brook Lynn.

“Easy enough to remove.” Lisa assured her. “But the space is phenomenal don’t you think? I mean we’re all in here quite comfortably and we all know that any time you host everyone ends up in the kitchen.”

“It’s a little out of date” Gregory admitted as he made his way over next to Tracy. “But they can make it their own. A few weekends. It won’t take too long to do.”

“A few weekends?” Tracy laughed. “I think you mean a few years”

Chase leaned closer to his wife to whisper in her ear. “You can say I told you so at any time.”

“I actually expected worse.” She whispered back. “I thought the deer head over the fireplace would send her to the hospital.”

“It still could if we act like we really like it and would keep it.”

“Do we really like it?” Brook Lynn turned to face him, still keeping her voice low as Lisa led the still complaining Tracy towards the bedrooms on the second floor while Gregory trailed behind them. “Not the deer head. This house.”

Chase considered her question carefully. “I know this is the second time we’ve seen it. And it’s great. But seeing my dad move around here…”

“Yeah I feel the same. It’s a great place but I don’t think it’s for us. The stairs. We didn’t really think about the stairs.”

“Right. And that’s only going to get worse for him as time goes on. So no stairs. Or at least a bedroom on the first floor.”

“Exactly. Making progress as Lisa would say before she probably curses the day Rachel gave us her number.”

Violet came running in from the back yard which she had been examining very carefully for how much fun it could be, her long braid flying behind her. “Uncle Chase, did you know there’s a basketball goal down the street?”

“I did but I also know you can’t see that from the backyard.” He knelt down to look her in the eye. “It sounds like you went to the front yard where no one could keep an eye on you.”

“Relax. I kept an eye on her.” Rachel said with a smile as she came in the front door. “And she was lovely company.”

“She said she was friends with you and Auntie Brook Lynn.” Violet said as an explanation.

“She is but we’re still going to have to talk about just talking with strangers.” Chase straightened himself up. “Rachel. George with you?”

“Oh no. He’s helping his brother with some project.” Rachel took in the living room and kitchen. “This is cute.”

“Rachel? How did you know we were here?” Brook Lynn asked.

“Oh I didn’t. I saw Lisa’s car and knew you were out on tours right now.” Rachel shrugged.

“Great now I’m agreeing with Tracy about realtors with car wraps of their face” Chase muttered under his breath before Brook Lynn elbowed him in the side.

Rachel continued appraising the house, either ignoring Chase’s comments or she hadn’t heard them. “I mean don’t get me wrong it needs a little love but it looks like it’s all cosmetic stuff.”

“And the schools are truly excellent.” Lisa was explaining to both Tracy and Gregory as they made their slowly down the stairs. She stopped short when she saw Rachel standing in the living room. “Rachel?”

“Hey Lisa. I saw your car and knew you were taking my friends here around so I just stopped by.” Rachel made her way over, offering her hand to Tracy. “I’m Rachel. You have to be Brook Lynn’s grandmother I’ve heard about. And you must be Chase’s father.”

“Yes I’m Tracy Quartermaine. I don’t believe I remember Brook Lynn mentioning where she met you.”

“It’s really not important.” Brook Lynn hurried to say. “How did you like the bedrooms?”

“Small but nothing too objectionable.” Tracy turned her attention to Rachel. “ Do you live near by?”

“A few blocks away. So I can tell you Lisa is right. This is a great neighborhood. My kids went to the schools here and they are all doing great. For a young couple starting out like these two? You can’t get a much better spot. Plus it’s super convenient for our informal bowling team.”

“I’m sorry. What did you say?” Tracy asked as Gregory used his hand to cover his laugh.Brook Lynn rubbed her forehead and Violet’s eyes grew wide with excitement.

“You’re on a bowling team Uncle Chase? Can I come?”

“It’s not a team kiddo.” Chase explained trying to keep from catching either Tracy’s or Gregory’s eyes.

“It’s just friends who play together.” Brook Lynn added.

“No one actually wants to go against us.” Rachel smiled before pointing over her shoulder towards Chase. “Probably because this one here would be too busy making friends to take his turn. We take way too long and the actual league people? Too intense for us.”

“And would these informal games as you call it occur near here?” Tracy asked, her hands clasped behind her back.

“Oh yeah. The road you all turned off to get here? Just go like two more lights and the alley’s on your right. Can’t miss it.”

Tracy nodded before turning her attention to her granddaughter. “I’m also assuming this is the mysterious therapy exercises you have both refused to explain for months?” She turned to look in Chase’s direction. “No doubt this was your idea.”

“And how much will cost us for you to not tell the rest of the family when we get back?” Brook Lynn asked.

“Oh it’s not my silence you need to worry about.” Tracy pointed over to Violet. “It’s her’s.”

Brook Lynn turned and caught Chase’s gaze. He nodded. He knew this was coming and he had told her she could say it. “Go ahead.”

“I told you this was a bad idea.”

Chapter Text

“Kid, I’ve got to teach you to hold out for more.” Brook Lynn shook her head as she and Violet collected their rental shoes. Chase was still talking baseball with the Mets fan that worked behind the counter. People with bad taste in teams would always find each other, she supposed. Violet looked up at her, her face scrunched in confusion. “You could have gotten so much more out of your uncle then just coming with us to bowling.”

It was now only a matter of time before someone cracked and the entire family would decide bowling sounded fun. They should all go. And that would be the end of her and Chase being able to just blend in. Because there was no way Olivia or Lois would be missed. If anyone would make a dance to celebrate a strike? It would be the two of them. And it probably wouldn’t matter if they knew the person who bowled it or not.

“But I like bowling.” Violet protested. “And Miss Rachel is really nice.”

“Oh yeah she’s great.” They stopped by the rack of balls to make their selection. Finding the lightest ones, Brook Lynn picked up a pink one. “I think I know which one you want to use.”

Violet nodded eagerly and took it from her with both hands. Selecting her own, she saw Rachel waving to her from their usual lane. “Now we can still get the bumpers put up for you.”

“Bumpers are for babies Auntie Brook Lynn.” Violet said seriously as they got to the lane. Rachel took the bowling ball from Violet as she went to sit down to change her shoes.

“That is the correct attitude Violet.” Rachel nodded. “But it will be just a few more minutes. There was some issue with the scoreboard so George and the attendant are rebooting it. More the attendant than George.” She knelt down to look Violet in the eye. “Why don’t we go to the snack bar and buy all the food I bet your dad won’t let you eat.”

Violet looked up at her eagerly and Brook Lynn let out a small laugh. “Go. But when your dad finds out it was Uncle Chase who said you could.”

“Uncle Chase said she could do what?” Chase asked as he draped his arm across her shoulder as Violet and Rachel took off.

“Eating tons of junk food while we wait for the scoreboard to reset.”

“Yeah that’s something I would say.” Chase agreed. “I’m sure Finn will do something to deserve Violet on a sugar rush.”

Brook Lynn shook her head and looked over towards the snack bar. She was unsurprised to spy Violet talking what had to be a mile a minute to a little boy around her age. Judging by his slightly terrified expression he wasn’t exactly sure how he had gotten into this situation in the first place. “Like uncle like niece” she laughed as she recognized the PCU gymnastics shirt the boy was wearing that must have caught Violet’s attention.

She looked over, expecting Chase to be wondering what she meant by that but he had made his way over to where George and the attendant were still working on the scoreboard. It would still be a few minutes judging by the look on the attendant’s face. Brook Lynn made her way over to the snack bar determined to make sure Violet didn’t accidentally keep a kid from leaving with his family.

“And Nikk she is the best at the bars. She can flip so high. My friend Janice thinks she’s like 100 feet in the air but its not that high.” Violet was explaining.

“Hey sweetie. It’s going to be a few more minutes. Who’s your new friend?” There was a part of Brook Lynn that wondered if Violet had even asked the boy’s name before she started her assessment of every current gymnast on the team.

“This is Robbie. Do you know he’s never been to a meet Auntie Brook Lynn? He has to come with us the next time we go.”

“Well we’ll have to see about that. But right now I think you need to help Rachel with all that food she ordered for you.” Violet nodded and gave Robbie a quick wave before going to grab a bag of potato chips. Brook Lynn smiled down at Robbie. “Better get back to your parents before they think you got lost.”

“Oh I’m here with my social worker.” Robbie shrugged, gesturing behind them. “She’s probably been watching me the whole time. I was supposed to get us some napkins for the pizza.”

Brook Lynn followed the direction he pointed in to see there was a woman looking over in their direction. On the seat next to her a lone Happy Birthday balloon was tied to it. “The one with the balloon? Is it your birthday?”

Robbie nodded. “Yeah that’s why she brought me here. She tries to do something for all of us kids on our birthday. Or at least near it.” He shrugged and grabbed some napkins from the dispenser. “Better go!”

“Happy birthday!” Brook Lynn called after him, trying to keep any sadness she felt for anyone to celebrate their birthday with only a social worker at the local bowling alley out of her voice. It just didn’t seem right. She chewed on her lower lip for a second before making a quick stop at the snack bar. Studying the menu, she picked several kinds of candy before asking the attendant if she minded taking it over to the lane she saw Robbie run off to. It wasn’t much but it was something.

Returning to her own lane, she could see the scoreboard was finally working which would mean George would want to get started immediately. She fought back a laugh as she realized Chase had made Violet the first bowler, which would slow George’s plan for at least three games before lunch considerably. Chase was patiently showing her how to throw the ball down the lane and avoid the gutter since the bumpers were off limits. He really would be the greatest dad some day.

“Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.” An excited Robbie was suddenly next to her practically jumping up and down holding the bag of candy she had sent over. His social worker stood behind him smiling.

“Well you deserved something for letting Violet talk your ear off. And it’s your birthday.” She gave an apologetic shrug to the social worker. “Sorry about the sugar rush.”

“It’s ok. He lives just around the corner. And he’ll be sharing it with his sister right?”

“Yes ma’am.”

“Alright I promised Mrs. Sawyer I’d have you back before 1 so we better finish up that game.” She shepherded Robbie back towards the lane. “Thank you again.”

“You’re welcome.” Brook Lynn responded as the two retreated. No one should have to spent their birthday away from family, especially not a little kid. There should be cake and presents and too much excitement for one day to handle.

You could do that for a kid like Robbie.

It was a small voice but Brook Lynn would swear it was the voice of great-grandmother. Her breath caught in her throat as the words rattled around in her head. Could she? Did she want to? Would Chase?

“Auntie Brook Lynn did you see? I did it!”

A quick glance at the scoreboard revealed that Violet had managed to knock exactly one pin down on her own. Brook Lynn smiled brightly.

“Yeah. I did see.”

Chapter Text

“Now I know this is a little further out than you initially wanted to be,” Lisa cautioned as they pulled up the driveway to the Cape Cod on a cul de sac. A large oak tree sat to the left side of the house and an actual white picket fence surrounded the backyard. Brook Lynn rubbed her thumb against her palm to make sure she wasn’t entirely dreaming. Even her grandmother would have to admit the setting and the outside of this place was charming. And maybe they had been looking at houses too long but she would swear in a court of law that it looked almost exactly like the picture of the first house her great grandparents had owned. “But with a large first floor inlaw suite and more bedrooms upstairs? There was no way I couldn’t show it to you.”

As Lisa led them to the front door, Chase caught her eye and gave her a can you believe this look. All she could do was shake her head in disbelief. Lisa opened the door and ushered them inside pointing to the double doors just off the entrance. “That’s the bedroom I was telling you about.”

Entering the room, Brook Lynn noticed the queen size bed against one wall and large dresser on the opposite. There was still plenty of space which meant there was likely plenty of space for any medical equipment Gregory might need in the future. The bathroom had a walk in shower which was great and the closet was a decent size. And the windows let in plenty of sunlight.

“There’s hardwood throughout the first floor” Lisa explained as she led them down the hall towards what Brook Lynn assumed was the main living area. “There’s carpet upstairs but if your dad is going to need the first floor…”

“Then that wouldn’t be an issue for him.” Chase finished for her as they entered the kitchen. “That might be a continent. Not an island.”

It was large. There were four stools and room for at least one more. But that wasn’t what caught Brook Lynn’s eye the most. “Is that…a fireplace in the kitchen?”

“Yes. And it works. Gas logs.” Lisa nodded. She pointed towards the range. “Gas range as well. They recently updated everything.” She paused as she looked up at the track lighting in a wave pattern. “Well almost everything but that really is a pretty easy update to do.”

Both the living and dining room were spacious and had just minor updates that Brook Lynn was sure they could manage themselves. The two guest bedrooms upstairs were good sizes. The one set up for a child’s room with a bed under the gable was adorable. The main bedroom was plenty big enough for the two of them and the bathrooms were all recently updated.

Lisa led them both back downstairs to show them the backyard and Brook Lynn tried to remember every rule of negotiations her great grandfather and grandmother had ever tried to teach her. Number one was never ever let the other person know if you were excited about something. She assumed it went double when looking for houses. As they stepped onto the paved patio, she took a deep breath. The yard was large enough for Panda to run around but it wasn’t overwhelming. The patio was level with the door off the living room so even when he was in a wheelchair Gregory could still come outside.

Could they have actually done it? Could they have actually found the perfect house?

Lisa’s phone started to ring. “Oh excuse me for just a moment. I have to take this.” Lisa walked towards the gate in the fence to head to the front yard. Brook Lynn sat down on the patio bench and looked up at Chase.

“Oh my God.” she said. “Chase this house….”

“I know.” Chase answered sitting down in a chair across from her. “I’m scared to say it because I’m pretty sure this is just a dream.”

“Ok that’s usually my line and if you’re thinking it we are in big trouble.” She looked around the yard again. “We just found the perfect house didn’t we? I mean am I crazy? Because I kinda feel like I am.”

“If you’re crazy then I am because I think we did. I mean the room will work for my dad now and when he needs help.”

“And we don’t really need a dining room. It would fit your family fine but there’s no way a Quartermaine Thanksgiving will work but we could make it a library for your dad’s books.”

“And you could use it as an office,” Chase added. “And we could make the garage a recording studio. I mean your parents did that when they started L&B right? They could point us in the right direction on how to do that.”

“That might be getting a little ahead of ourselves.” Brook Lynn cautioned. “But it’s sweet you thought of it. You know what’s really weird?”

“What’s that?”

“There’s a picture in one of my great grandmother’s photo albums of the first house she and Great Grandfather lived in right after they got married. I’d have to look at the picture to be sure but I want to say this house looks a lot like it. At least from the outside.”

“Then I think we might have an answer.” Chase leaned forward and took both her hands in his. “It sounds like we’ve got Lila’s approval.”

“Possible approval. It’s been years since I saw that photo.”

“I trust your memory.” Chase smiled. “Are you thinking what I’m thinking?”

“Sorry about that.” Lisa apologized as she came back into the yard from the house. “So what do we think? Is this one we need to do a second showing for the rest of the family?”

Brook Lynn looked into Chase’s eyes and felt her heart speed up a little. The last time she felt like this was when he shocked her with his proposal. It didn’t feel real and at the same time felt entirely right. He had a similar look in his eyes that day as well. She nodded quickly, a smile filling her face.

Chase kissed her cheek quickly before they both stood up. “We don’t need that. This is it. This is the house.”

Chapter Text

If there was one thing Chase had learned about Tracy over the years, it was that she loved to throw the Quartermaine name around. Whether it was trying to get him to arrest Alexis or getting the best seat in whatever restaurant she was in, Tracy Angelica Quatermain had no problem letting anyone know exactly who she was. Most of the time he found it an annoying but ignorable trait. He had a sneaking suspicion that Mac continually called him to arrest Tracy because he could just tune it out. (And there was the faint possibility she actually liked him but the jury was still out on that one.)

However when she threw her name around so that they would be able to get the house they both fell in love with, and make the entire closing process go so quickly it felt like it was only yesterday they saw the place and now with the help of family and friends they had managed to move in. Well somewhat managed. Chase wasn’t sure how but he was positive Finn had somehow convinced everyone to leave before a single box was unpacked.

“How do we have so many boxes?” He groaned as he opened what felt like his fiftieth of the hour. He was currently sitting on the floor of the kitchen with newspaper and bubble wrap covering the tile next to him. “I don’t remember this many dishes.”

“Because we put the ones we registered for in storage until we found a bigger place.” Brook Lynn reminded him as she came back from the front door with their pizza. She sat down next to him, placing the box on the floor and handing him a bottle of Coke. “Yes this is all our stuff. And I know this is messing with your need for Zen order but we do not have to unpack everything tonight. Especially not when we have Luigi’s.”

“That’s just because you think this is creative chaos.” He grumbled good naturedly before opening the box and grabbing a slice. He smiled as he took the napkin she offered him. “And because it’s mostly your stuff.”

“It became our stuff after the I do’s pal.” She leaned her head back against the island. “We’ll get it done. And it’s better that it’s us than listening to my ma, Olivia and Granny argue over how many inches to the left the kitchen table needs to be.”

Chase shuddered a little at the image. Suddenly he realized something was missing. Or rather there was someone missing. He looked around the room puzzled. “Where’s Panda? He usually tries to steal any pizza we get.”

Brook Lynn patted his knee. “Relax. Panda is snoring away in the living room. Between the move and Leo and Violet helping him explore the yard all afternoon the little sucker is exhausted.”

Chase laughed. Leo and Violet had taken one look at the backyard and spent their entire afternoon running Panda all over the yard. He probably should have realized the poor dog was sleeping sooner. “Well at least he’ll actually sleep on his dog bed.”

“Please.” Brook Lynn rolled her eyes. “He’ll probably wake up in the middle of the night and somehow find his way into our room.”

“But first he needs to figure out stairs. He hasn’t done that yet.”

“Panda is the smartest dog in the world. He’ll figure them out in no time. Just you watch.”

“You sound ridiculous. You do realize that right? If my phone wasn’t currently buried under piles of newspaper I’d record you and play it back for you.”

Brook Lynn just shook her head at him. They both fell quiet, eating their pizza and looking around the kitchen. Both still a little in disbelief it was there and a little overwhelmed at what all else needed to get done. But Chase could admit that even if it seemed impossible now, he could see in a few months a fire roaring in the fireplace while they attempted to make homemade pasta together. They’d get there. It would just take time. That’s what Dr. J kept telling them and he guessed it applied equally to moving as well as working on their relationship.

“You think everyone liked the house?” Brook Lynn asked, breaking the silence.

“Of course they did. And even if they didn’t, no one would say anything because we love it.” Chase paused for a second. “Except Tracy.”

“I don’t think Leo or Violet even went upstairs to see their guest room.” Brook Lynn mused.

“If they did, I never saw it.” Chase shrugged. “But Leo and Violet are just excited to have a place to stay with us. They’d be fine if we set up a tent in the backyard and told them to sleep there.” His eyes lit up with an idea. “Say…”

“Nope.” Brook Lynn shook her head. “I already know what you are going to say and that is far too much like camping. You can do that with them. I will be here, inside and not being eaten alive by mosquitos. Or running away from bears.”

“You know one day I’m going to find out what’s behind this obsession with bears chasing you. Maybe we should bring it up with Dr. J at our next session. Really analyze this irrational fear of yours. “

“It is not irrational. It’s irrational to go sleep in the woods and not be concerned about them.” Brook Lynn shot back.

“But we were just talking about sleeping in the backyard. There are no woods. So no bears.” Chase smiled, confident he had finally won this round of their never ending argument.

“We didn’t ask about them. And we’re new to the neighborhood. They roam the streets at night for all we know.”

“Whatever you say babe.” Chase leaned over and kissed her cheek.

“Anyway I just really want them to like the room.” Brook Lynn shrugged.

“We’ll just make sure they see it the next time they come over. It won’t be too long before that happens I’m sure.” Chase pointed out. “I know you want everyone to like the house but why are you concerned if they like that room? You know Leo and Violet will be happy in any room we tell them they can use.”

“I know. I know they will.” Brook Lynn took a deep breath. “And it’s not so much about them liking the room as someone else.”

“Someone else?”

“A kid someone else.” Brook Lynn closed her eyes before letting out a breath. “Specifically our kid.”

Chapter Text

Of all the things he would have ever thought of Brook Lynn wanting to talk about tonight, the subject of kids was the last thing Chase would have ever picked. But his wife did always love to surprise him so once he got over the shock, he supposed it wouldn’t be too shocking to anyone else they knew. “I’m sorry did I hear you correctly?”

“The agreement was that we would figure out the housing situation and then we would talk about kids.” Brook Lynn said, a little defensively her eyes darting around the room. She waved her hand in the air. “Housing situation settled.”

“I remember our agreement.” Chase said gently. He recognized the signs of his wife working herself up to hide behind a wall far too well. “I just didn’t think that agreement meant the night we moved in. You surprised me.” He finally managed to catch her eyes. “I wasn’t saying no I was just shocked. I always figured I’d have to be the one to start the conversation.”

“Yeah well being braver is one of my goals with Dr. J.”

“You are always the bravest person I know.” Chase leaned forward to kiss her forehead.

Brook Lynn chewed the bottom of her lip for a second before she spoke. “I mean do you want to talk about it? If you don't, we can do it another time. I know I just sprung this on you and I don’t want you to feel pressured if you don’t want to…”

“You’re cute when you babble. Have I ever told you that?”

“I do not babble.” Brook Lynn protested.

“You do. But only when you’re nervous.” Chase squeezed her hand. “Yes I want to talk about kids. I wasn’t expecting to have this discussion tonight but that’s ok. Let’s talk about it.”

Taking a deep breath, Brook Lynn leaned her back against the island. “I’ve been thinking that maybe we should start talking about what options we like and which ones we don’t. Like Allison’s offer is sweet but it’s insane. I only know of one surrogacy in this town that turned out ok and that involved Lucy. When Lucy is the lone good outcome?” She shook her head. “I don’t like it.”

“After hearing all the drama that happened between Kristina and Molly from Dante and Alli?” Chase shook his head. “No, I agree with you. I don’t like it at all. Surrogacy is not for us.”

“What do you think about IVF?”

“It’s expensive.” Chase held up his hand to stop her protest. “And I know your family would be more than willing to help and that this could be a good use of the money from your trust we set aside. It’s still expensive.”

“And I wouldn’t want to use it on that anyway. It just feels wrong to use money we set aside for kids to actually have them.” Brook Lynn tilted her head to the side. “Does that make me sound crazy? It sounds crazy in my head.”

“You don’t sound crazy. I think I get it.”

“Well if that didn’t sound crazy, then this probably will. It just sounds so cold. I know it’s not and I get it but I just….I know that whatever we decide it’s not going to be how we first thought but I just never pictured that you know?”

“I can see what you’re saying. But a lot of people have success using IVF.”

“I know they do. And I’m not saying no. I’m just saying how I feel.” She paused and played with her wedding and engagement rings, twisting them around her finger. Of all her nervous traits, this was his favorite. “There is one thing I’ve been thinking of. Thinking of it a lot lately.”

“What’s that?” Chase asked.

“Adoption.” Brook Lynn said quietly. “Every time I’ve thought about kids lately, I keep coming back to adoption.”

Chase pushed a piece of hair behind her ear. He couldn’t say he had thought about the idea in any great detail but it had crossed his mind in passing. “If you’re having all these thoughts about it, tell me what you’re thinking.”

“That it’s kind of a family tradition with Jason, Emily and Leo. That when Lucas says he wants to be the kind of doctor his dad was, he’s referring to Tony. Or he wants to care for his patients the way his mom did, he’s talking about Bobbie. The fact that at least twice a month we go bowling and there’s a group of kids there that are wanting parents.” She shook her head. “The more I think about it, the more it feels like someone is trying to tell me something.”

Chase stayed quiet for a minute. Clearly Brook Lynn had been thinking about this for a while now. He could feel her start to tense up the longer he didn’t say anything. “I’m not saying no. I just haven’t thought about it. It’s crossed my mind but I’ve thought about it as much as you have obviously.”

“I’m sorry. Just ever since I talked to that kid at the bowling alley who was celebrating his birthday with a social worker because he didn’t have a family to celebrate with, I can’t get it out of my head.”

There was that tender heart his wife worked so hard to keep other people from seeing. If this was an option she kept thinking about, that had to mean something. And he’d be lying to himself if he didn’t admit that seeing those kids at the alley didn’t stir emotions in him as well. And if Brook Lynn was this open to talk about it after everything they had been through then a part of him just wanted to say yes. They should adopt and start the process as quickly as possible.

But a voice that sounded like Dr. J reminded him that they needed to make this decision based on what was good for both of them, not just because one of them liked it the most.

“Like I said I’ve not thought about it as much as you. But I want to. I just don’t think it’s a good idea to do that while we’re exhausted from moving all day. We have a joint session with Dr. J next week right?”

“Right.”

“So what if you give me until then to consider our options and we talk about it in our session. Is that ok with you?”

Brook Lynn nodded. “I know I sprung this all on you out of the blue so I can do that.”

“For the record, it was a good springing on me.” Chase pointed out. “I know you’re going to make fun of me for this but what if we do the list thing again. We both think about our options, even ones we didn’t talk about tonight and we bring our lists to the appointment.”

“You are such a nerd. I should have known you would suggest something with homework.” She rolled her eyes affectionately. “Fine, I'll do the list.”

“At least I know Panda won’t be the number one option this time.”

Chapter Text

Some days Elizabeth wished Lila’s memorial garden was used more than just a staff break area. It was so beautiful and calming with the flowers blooming that she was certain a lot of patients and families would find it a healing place to sit. And there was no more fitting tribute to Lila Quartermaine than giving others a feeling of healing and peace. But watching Brook Lynn pace back and forth at a frantic pace, Elizabeth was suddenly reminded of the other days when she was very glad this place was reserved for the staff. Although it was likely a crowd of patients wouldn’t give Brook Lynn a second thought about slowing down.

“Brook Lynn. Sit down. I am sure it is not that bad.” She patted the spot on the bench next to her.

“No you’re right. It’s worse.” Brook Lynn shook her head. Elizabeth had never seen Brook Lynn perform but if her theatrics in the garden were any indication she could put on one hell of a show. “I mean I just sprung everything on him at once. I didn’t even let get used to the idea that we have a house now. I just jumped right to this big discussion and gave him no option to have it at another time. And then I just told him about adoption with no discussion before hand about what he thought of it. I mean who does that?”

With a flourish a soap opera actor would be proud of, Brook Lynn finally sat down. Elizabeth shook her head and hoped she would be able to keep back the laughter threatening to escape her. “Run out of breath?” Ok so maybe she couldn’t hide her amusement as much as she thought. Her mom skills were slipping.

“Don’t treat me like one of your kids.” Brook Lynn rolled her eyes. “I need you to help me fix this.”

“I’m not” Elizabeth promised. If it was one of her boys she’d have stopped the dramatics long before now. “I just don’t think it went as horribly as you think it did.”

“I’m telling you it went worse Way worse.”

Elizabeth put down the coffee cup she was holding on the ground. “Look it does sound like this conversation wasn’t as planned as you probably wanted it to be. But I’m pretty sure Chase is used to you just blurting things out by now. It’s kinda your thing and he did marry you knowing that.”

“Still not helping.”

“I’m getting there. First, I think your idea about adopting is a good one. There are so many kids that need good homes and I’ve seen how you and Chase are with every kid in your life. I think even if you didn’t have the situation you have, you’d be great adoptive parents.”

Brook Lynn’s shoulders relaxed a fraction of an inch. “The more I think about it, the more that it feels like the right choice.”

“And I think it’s a good thing Chase asked for time to really think about it.” She held up her hand to stop any protest from Brook Lynn. “You’ve been thinking about it for a little bit and he probably hasn’t thought of it more than a possible option for you guys. It doesn’t mean he disagrees with you. I think he just wants to consider it carefully and make sure it feels right to him. The last thing a kid needs is a parent that isn’t fully onboard, no matter how that kid comes into the family.”

“But if he just wants to think about it, why does he want us to not talk about it until our session with Dr. J? Why can’t we just talk about it together?”

“Because even if he agrees with you, this is a big decision and there’s probably going to be a lot of emotions? And a lot of discussion about what the next steps are,whatever they are?” Elizabeth tilted her head a little to the left. “Also I’m going to say this as a friend and with love, it’s probably so you don’t freak out when he starts talking about what he’s thinking and jumping to conclusions.”

“I don’t do that.”

“Brook Lynn. You made the man propose to you twice because you were convinced he was only doing it because of your grandmother’s visit. And I’m going to point out that he proposed after Gloria left so that really made no sense because it was about her, he would have proposed in front of her.”

“I still say that was his fault for not having the ring out immediately. And honestly who proposes in the middle of the kitchen while we’re helping my mom prep dinner?”

“You mean he didn’t plan it out?” Elizabeth teased. “Maybe you really are perfect for each other.”

Brook Lynn shook her head. “Even if you’re right, I just…I don’t like not knowing what he’s thinking.”

“That makes sense. This is a way you can have your dream of a family and you want him to be on the same page.” Reaching over,Elizabeth took Brook Lynn’s hand in her own. “I really don’t see Chase saying no to this. I think half the kids in town know him as Uncle Chase. I’m positive that he’s just wanting to give it all the thought you have. I know you call him a pushover but he’s really not and we both know it. And you wouldn’t love him as much as you do if he just gave into you all the time.”

Closing her eyes, Brook Lynn took a couple of deep breaths. It was clear she was considering everything Elizabeth had said. Elizabeth sat quietly, picking up her coffee cup and taking a sip waiting for her friend to continue. Finally she opened her eyes and let out a sigh. “I just really want him to agree that this is our best choice.”

“I think he will and I know this is hard for you but just be patient. Your next session isn’t that far off. And we both know he’s been super patient with you.”

“I know. I know. I can be patient for him. I can. I just don’t like the waiting.”

“Well I never said you had to like that.”

Chapter Text

When she was younger, Brook Lynn swore that the week before her birthday was torture. Between the party preparations, Grandma Gloria cooking and baking up a storm and her ma always having some sort of surprise up her sleeve, it was like watching her birthday take place for days but not being able to join in the celebration. Now she knew she was wrong. This week was torture. And if Dr. J didn’t start the session soon, she was not going to be responsible for what she did.

She had been true to her word and not brought up the subject of adoption or even kids again. Even though between Leo, Violet and Bailey Lou it felt like there had been a child with them every day this week. Not even when Leo insisted on them coming to his drama therapy production of King Lear. (Honestly someone had to talk to that director. Brook Lynn had nothing against Shakespeare in principle but surely there was a Dr. Seuss play or something that was more appropriate.) And of course like Pandora’s Box now that she had brought the subject up, not only were there kids all around but even when they were alone, somehow even the TV and movie nights were conspiring against her.

“Well I would ask if there was anything you wanted to talk about but I can tell by the look on Brook Lynn’s face that there is.” Dr. J smiled as she looked between them. “So why don’t we start there? What’s going on?”

Chase looked over at her. “Since this was my idea to wait until now to discuss it, I guess I’ll start?” Seeing her nod, he took a deep breath and looked over at Dr. J. “You know we agreed that we would work on finding a place of our own first and then we would discuss kids. Well the first night in our house, Brook Lynn surprised me with wanting to discuss kids.”

Brook Lynn could see the question forming in Dr. J’s mind and Chase apparently could as well as he rushed to explain. “It's not about the timing of the discussion. I was surprised but that’s not what I wanted to discuss today. We were starting to discuss specific options…”

“Well one specific option” Brook Lynn interrupted.

“Ok, one specific option.” Chase smiled at the correction. “I asked her for time to think about it since she clearly had considered it longer than I had. And I thought this would be a good place to discuss it. In case we forgot our skills.”

“Well I hope that’s not true but you can consider me an impartial observer.” Dr. J said warmly. “So what option caused all this fuss?”

Dr. J nodded seriously. “I see. Who wants to start?”

“I guess I will since it was my idea?” Brook Lynn said hesitantly. Seeing Chase and Dr. J nod in agreement, she let out a sigh. “Ok so for the record, I know that when we agreed to wait to discuss kids until after we found a place, that it didn’t mean we needed to discuss it that night. But you know me. My mouth started going before my mind could catch up. So I’m sorry for putting you on the spot like that. But when we took Violet with us bowling, you know how every new kid she meets becomes her new best friend? Well when I went to rescue her newest best friend, I started talking to him and realized he was celebrating his birthday with his social worker. And it just got me thinking how awful it was to have no family around on your birthday.” She looked down at her shoes for a minute. “I know this going to sound crazy, but you know how when we saw the house, I said it reminded me of a picture of Edward and Lila’s first house? And I hadn’t seen that picture in years? It just felt the same. And I started thinking about how many people in my family were adopted. And I know most of them were like Leo but Emily was 12 when she became a Quartermaine and I couldn’t imagine the family without her. And it….it just felt right.”

“Having a family history of being adoptive parents makes sense as to why you’d think about it.” Dr.J agreed. “But why do you think it feels right?”

“I know it’s not the same and the plan was always for her to go back to Maxie but we loved Bailey Lou with all our hearts and I know we joked about not wanting to go to PTA meetings but we both would have done it in a heartbeat. And I know no option we have is easy and that we have resources other couples don’t, I just don’t like the idea of spending money on a treatment that may not work. And after seeing everything with Kristina being Molly’s surrogate, no thank you.”

“I agree with you about using a surrogate.” Chase nodded. “Allison’s offer was unexpected and sweet but it felt wrong. And I know you just got excited about the idea. I wasn’t mad about that. Or about any of it. I just hadn’t thought about adoption more than as a passing thought. But I was never against it.”

“You weren’t?” Brook Lynn couldn’t help but hear the hopeful note in her voice.

“Of course not.” Chase took her hand in his. “I just always figured I would have to be the one to bring up the whole kids conversation so I wasn’t prepared when you brought it up.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. I said I would be ready to discuss it when you were ready. I just didn’t think it would be as the moving van turned the corner.” He teased with a smile on his face. “We have to think about all our options carefully but I just thought that when it comes to adoption I needed to think about it even more carefully. There’s already a child involved at that point and if there’s any doubt, it’s not fair to that kid.”

“Correct me if I’m wrong, but that doesn’t sound like you are talking about an infant” Dr. J pointed out.

“This is the part I wanted Dr. J for. I think adoption is a great choice. I do. But I’ve seen and talked with the kids at the bowling alley too. There’s so many that need good homes. So if we do choose adoption, I want us to consider an older child. A kid that really needs a home. I want us to look at all our options”

Brook Lynn nodded. “I was thinning the same thing. Not that I wouldn’t want a baby but Leo was 10 when his adoption was final. And Emily was 12. I can be open to that.”

Dr. J let out a laugh. “Forgett the skills I taught you. Please. You two just wanted to show off. You didn’t need me.”

“Maybe not for this part.” Chase conceded. “But maybe when we’re in the middle of this process and frustrated?”

“Now then you will need me.”

Chapter Text

Neither one of them was sure exactly when it happened, but at some point, it had become a tradition to go to the Haven Bistro after their joint sessions. Through some unspoken agreement they had never started discussing their sessions until they had sat down with their food. Chase fought back a smile as Brook Lynn increasing finger tapping gave away her nervous energy. She had clearly wanted to talk more and it was driving her crazy to wait even a few seconds longer than she had to.

He sat down and shot her his most amused grin. If he didn’t know her so well he would assume the glare she shot him was serious. “Something you wanted to talk about?” He teased her, ducking before the napkin she threw at him could make contact.

“You are not funny.” Brook Lynn pointed her finger at him. “And before you say it, no Violet and Leo finding you hilarious does not count.”

“Ok fine.” Chase held up his hands in surrender. “I’m sorry. Where should we start?”

“We’re really on the same page here?” She asked, playing with her fork. “You weren’t ‘just saying that to make me happy?”

“No that would be if I told you yes when you first brought it up.” Chase took a bite of his sandwich before continuing. “I told you that’s why I wanted to wait until our session to discuss it.”

“I know. And I know we have to be honest when we’re with Dr. J” She paused and corrected herself. “Ok honest all the time but you know what I meant.” She let out a sigh and offered a soft smile. One of the ones he loved the most. The type she only reserved for those she felt the safest and most loved with. He cherished every one of those smiles she gave him. “It’s just…this is the biggest decision we’ll make and I’m just nervous.”

“Hey I’m nervous too.” Chase reached across the table and took her hand in his. “But this is the right decision. For both of us. Even if it’s feeling a little overwhelming right now.”

“I wasn’t even this nervous about saying yes to your proposal. The second time.”

He was just going to ignore that joke for the moment. “I know we didn’t discuss any time line and I’m not saying we should……”

“But now that we’ve made this choice, it feels like we should do something?” Brook Lynn finished for him. “Yeah I was thinking that too.”

“Well I know we said we didn’t want to limit ourselves to just a baby. So it sounds like to me that we would be attending one of those bowling alley outings just not to play with our regular group.”

“About that.” Brook Lynn took a deep breath. “I was thinking maybe it would be a good idea not to tell everyone right away that we plan to adopt.”

Chase tilted his head to the side and looked at her puzzled. “Why? I think we both know all our family and friends would be willing to help.”

“I know they would. It’s not that. It’s just…” She closed her eyes for a brief second. “Our families…ok mainly my family can be a lot. And we don’t know how long this process can take and how many kids we might meet trying to find the right kid. I don’t want everyone to be disappointed if we go to like fifty outings and nothing happens. And I don’t want to overwhelm any kid we might meet because Olivia and Ma introduce themselves as their new nonna.”

Chase couldn’t deny he could see that exact scenario play out. “Ok how about this. Like you said we don’t know how long this could take. Let’s start by talking with someone. Maybe Rachel’s daughter since she used to work in foster care and see how we get started. I’m thinking we’d have to take classes or do some sort of training first anyway. That can’t just let anyone adopt right?”

“And that all has to take time.” Brook Lynn nodded. “It’s too bad they all know our therapy exercises just mean we’re going bowling. It would be the perfect cover.”

Chase shrugged.”We can just say we joined a league. It’s not like Tracy is going to seek Rachel out to ask her. And before you say anything, they already know you like bowling so joining a league wouldn’t be far-fetched to anyone.”

“You’re so proud of yourself for that one aren’t you?”

“A little bit yeah.” Chase nodded with a grin. “But I think in addition to talking to Rachel’s daughter we should also talk to Alexis. We’ll need a lawyer at some point I’m sure and while I know she doesn’t do this, she probably knows someone who does.”

“Good point. I can call and make an appointment with her tomorrow.” Brook Lynn paused, her eyes widened with alarm. “I mean if you want me to call tomorrow. Maybe I’m moving too fast and you clearly didn’t mean we need to make steps right now.”

How could he begin to tell her that for so long now he was more concerned she would never want to even talk about any step towards their dreams, let alone this one? That he was positive he was going to have start every discussion and be fearful that it would derail her recovery process? That if she had said she wanted to go and start the process immediately after leaving their session he would have done it in a heartbeat. There was no such thing as too fast for him right now because for so long he had been scared they were stuck in neutral. He didn’t have the way with words his wife did when she wrote songs. There wasn’t a song he could think of that he could sing for her that would convince her this was more than fine with him. He would just have to settle for the words he could say and hope she would understand the meaning behind them. The way she always seemed to.

“Call Alexis tomorrow. Whatever time is good for her I can make work.”

“I’ll call her tomorrow.”

Chapter Text

“I am aware that you are going to laugh when I say this, but really it doesn’t seem right that it only takes three months for some stranger to say that you are ready to be a parent.” Brook Lynn whispered as they moved closer to the picnic area that had been reserved for this mixer. It would be their first one as an officially approved foster parents for the state of New York. Chase was pretty sure the last time he had felt this particular combination of nerves and excitement, it was their wedding day.

He was relieved to discover that the state didn’t just take kids to the bowling alley every weekend, it just felt like they did. Today they were at a local wildlife reserve which had promised a petting zoo and a play area. If nothing else, this place had potential for a trip with Leo and Violet this summer. Their worker Susan had warned them about getting their hopes too high for this mixer. The aim, she had explained, was more for them to actually see the kids in person rather than just looking at names in a stack of files. The only way for them to decide what age range of kid they wanted to look at for adoption was to actually meet kids in that age range. It made a certain kind of sense, even if it did feel as awkward as he had feared.

“I’m not going to laugh.” Chase promised as the neared the sign- in table. “But I will point out that it could have taken longer but one of us was very insistent that we do everything as soon as possible.”

“I didn’t hear you complaining.” Brook Lynn pointed out, crossing her arms in front of her.

“I wasn’t.” Chase promised. Once they had met with the workers to start the process, he had been as eager as his wife had been to get started. And he couldn’t exactly argue with her that the faster they got everything done, the less chance they had of someone asking to go to one of their “bowling league” matches to cheer them on. He smiled when he saw Susan working behind the table. “Hey Susan.”

“Chase. Brook Lynn.” Susan practically chirped in her Southern drawl as she looked at the stacks of name tags looking for theirs. “Glad you made it.” She handed over the two pisces of laminated plastic. “I know we talked about this before but since it’s your first one, just go and talk to some of the kids. The older ones will probably stick to the picnic tables but the younger ones will be with the animals. The other social worker will have name tags like this.” She pointed to the lanyard with her work id that hung around her neck. “If you got questions or need any help, one of us shouldn’t be too far away. I'll check in with you before you leave ok?”

“Ok”Brook Lynn smiled as she put her name tag on as they stepped aside to let other people get their own name tags. “Just go out there and find a kid to adopt. No pressure.” she said under her breath as they walked towards the animal enclosure.

“There is no pressure.” Chase reminded her. “This is just part of the process.”

“Ok excellent Dr. J impression. I’m very proud of you.” She stood in front of him. “Ok so are we thinking animals or picnic tables first?”

“I’ve been thinking about this.” Chase said seriously. “If we start with the animals now, when it gets hotter, we can then hide in the shade of the picnic tables.”

“You do love me.” Brook Lynn kissed his cheek.”Ok are we ready?”

“Yes but I’m not the one wearing heels.”

“These are my sensible potential mother heels. Was I supposed to not wear them?”

“You wouldn’t be you if you didn’t.” Chase smiled before whispering in her ear. “And you know they make your legs look amazing and that’s really why you wore them.”

“There are children present” She huffed mockingly at him as they entered the enclosure. “Is that a llama or an alpaca?”

“It’s a llama and Leo is going to be very disappointed you didn’t know that.” Chase answered as they walked towards the animal. “Just like he’s going to be very disappointed if he finds out we could have petted one and didn’t.”

Most of the kids in the enclosure didn’t look older than seven or eight. Some were running in delight between the animals while others were standing mesmerized by one. A few were standing along the fence possibly waiting for an animal to come to them. And every few feet Chase could spot a social worker with a lanyard or another couple with a name tag trying to start a conversation. As they approached the llama a small group of kids ran off towards the donkey at the other end of the enclosure, leaving behind a small boy who looked to be about Bailey Lou’s age. He stuck his thumb in his mouth and looked towards the social worker who was holding the llama’s harness. “You can go with them if you want.” She encouraged him.

He shook his head no and gave a wary look to them as they got close enough to pet the llama themselves. Chase remembered when Leo used to give him that sort of look back when they first met. He started petting the llama and looked over at his wife. “So what do you think the name of this alpaca is?” He asked her with a wink.

“Is a llama.” The tiny voice with a straight lisp corrected them. Pretending to be surprised, Chase turned around before kneeling in the dirt to look directly into the curious but still wary green eyes.

“Are you sure?” Seeing the little boy nod, Chase continued. “I bet you don’t know his name.”

“Do too. Warry”

“Larry the llama? That is an excellent name.” He smiled. “My name is Chase. And that’s my wife Brook Lynn. What’s your name?”

“Gregory.”

Chapter Text

When she was just starting her career, her first supervisor had told Susan that there were two kinds of social workers that came through the doors. Those that would burn out and those that would stay. And after 20 years, she felt it was safe to say that Susan was one of the ones who stayed. She had cases that broke her heart. Those that she was proud of. And those that she just didn’t know if any intervention could have changed the outcome. She had seen the kids who immediately returned home once they turned 18 and those that tried to brave the world on their own.

She had spent more time than she ever would care to admit at adoption mixers. And over the course of her career she could count on one hand the number of matches that had come from one of the events. But as she passed a copy of the casefile across the table, Susan couldn’t deny she felt a sliver of hope that maybe, just maybe she was going to add to that small total.

“Now as I explained, our purpose today is to go through the casefile and review all the information about Gregory’s history and his current situation.” Susan said, looking over the table at Chase and Brook Lynn. Their lawyer Alexis Davis sat next to them while Susan’s supervisor was next to her. Gregory’s current foster parents and case worker also sat at the round conference table. “This is to answer any questions everyone concerned about Gregory may have and to see what, if any, next steps would be appropriate.” Seeing all the parties nod, Susan opened her copy of the casefile and indicated that everyone else should do the same. “Gregory Edward Wind…” She stopped as she heard the surprised gasp come from Brook Lynn. “Brook Lynn?”

“I’m sorry…I just….we didn’t realize….” Brook Lynn stopped herself for a second after Chase squeezed her hand. “Gregory and Edward are the names of both of our dads. It just caught me by surprise. Go on.”

“Gregory was born on March 2, 2020 to birth parents Vanessa and Steven. Gregory was suspected of being prenatally exposed to illegal substances at the time of his birth, which was later confirmed via blood tests. The Cabinet began involvement in Gregory’s life when he was 3 days old. The initial plan was to work with Vaness and Steven to address their substance use and keep Gregory in their care with appropriate family supervision. However neither parent was successful at the time in addressing their substance use and both incurred serious legal issues in connection with their substance use. Both birth parents have been incarcerated since Gregory was two years old and due to the three strikes statutes, parental rights were terminated.”

“Is that why he looks so much younger than five?” Chase asked. “I thought he was three when we met him.”

“Yes. While prenatal drug use affects all children differently, in Gregory’s case it does seem to have caused some delay in his growth and physical development. Of course there could be other factors as well, such as genetic predisposition."

“Are there any other long term effects of prenatal exposure that my clients need to be aware of?” Ms. Davis asked.

“There is the possibility of learning disabilities that we aren’t aware of since he just started school.” Susan allowed. She turned to the current foster parents. “Are his teachers reporting anything that is concerning?”

Kathy Winters had been fostering kids almost as long as Susan had been a worker. She considered the question carefully before answering. “He’s a little behind in his reading but his teacher doesn’t seem too concerned about that. He’s a pretty quiet little guy so he may not feel comfortable asking for help. I’m not seeing anything but it doesn’t hurt to keep a close eye on it.”

Susan watched as Chase wrote down some notes as Brook Lynn and Alexis exchanged glances. So far so good. She wasn’t seeing the fear of the unknown that she normally saw when a potential adoptive parent heard about prenatal exposure. Hopefully it was a sign of better things to come. “Continue to keep asking questions as we go on.” She encouraged them. “I want you to have all the information you need to make a decision.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It took about three hours for them to work through the complete casefile. They had stopped to break for lunch and give everyone a much needed time away from the table. As Kathy and her supervisor exchanged small talk, Susan gathered the copies of the casefile together to take back to her office. She couldn’t help but hope this was going to turn out ok. Gregory was a sweet kid who had just had a few too many bad breaks in life. Kathy was a great foster parent but she was planning on retiring from fostering soon and while she loved the little boy, she just didn’t think she would have the energy to keep up with him as he got older. He needed a younger couple that could help him explore everything that interested him. She hated to even hope for it, but he needed a couple exactly like Chase and Brook Lynn.

She glanced through the glass in the door of the conference room where she could see them talking to their lawyer in the hallway. She had said before they all left for lunch that no decision needed to be made today. If they needed more time to consider everything they had talked about, that was fine. They could have another meeting like this one again. And she meant it. But that didn’t stop her from wanting to know if what they were talking about would mean the end to Gregory’s waiting.

Susan caught all three of them nodding at each other in the hallway, indicating their conversation had come to an end. Not wanting to be caught spying, she busied herself with the paperwork. As the door opened, Chase, Brook Lynn and Ms. Davis sat in the seats they previously occupied. As everyone else followed suit, Susan tried to keep down the current of nervous energy that ran through her body.

“Well now that we’re all back, I want to start by asking if there are any further questions or concerns that came up during lunch.” Seeing them both shake their heads no, Susan continued. “Then I guess the question I have is what, if anything, you’d like to do next.”

Chase and Brook Lynn intertwined their fingers together and shared a smile before Chase looked over at her. “We want to move forward with seeing if we’re a good match for Gregory.”

Only now could Susan allow herself to truly smile. “Well I am thrilled to hear that. Let’s talk about what that could look like.”

Chapter Text

Brook Lynn couldn’t sit still any longer. She had to move. There was too much energy pulsing through her body. Forget her wedding. This was the most important day of her life. Or at least one of them. It had to go perfectly. It just had to.

“Babe.” Chase stood in front of her, putting his hands on the top of her arms, rubbing them gently. “Hey it’s going to be ok.”

“What if it’s not? What if we did this whole plan and it doesn’t work out?”

“We talked about it, remember? We know this could take some time and because the first time we met him it was great doesn’t mean every time will be the same.”

“You are being incredibly calm, rational and optimistic about this. And I just want you to know that it’s very annoying.” She took a step back. “Freak out with me please.”

“If we both freak out, this really will go badly.” Chase pointed out. “If it makes you feel better I’m just as nervous as you. I’m just doing a better job at hiding it.”

“Stupid cop training.” Brook Lynn rolled her eyes as she tried to find something, anything to concentrate on as they waited. The playroom at the Cabinet office that had a two way mirror for observation purposes was cute enough in an industrial sort of way. Board games, Lego sets, dolls, and shelves of books lined the walls. It was decided for at least the first meeting, they should meet with Gregory and Kathy here. A neutral place for everyone but a spot Gregory would feel comfortable at since he’d been visiting the office for most of his life. She glanced at the clock on the wall. There was still about two minutes before Kathy should be opening that door. It was going to be the longest two minutes of her life.

She remembered after Emily’s death, she had asked Monica about the decision to adopt Emily. Monica had told her after Paige died, she knew in her heart that Emily was meant to be part of her family and was meant to be her daughter. Brook Lynn hadn’t understood it then, but she was slightly terrified that she understood it now. She was trying to not get to far ahead of herself but the more she learned about Gregory the more she knew that he was the perfect fit for them. And the more she thought that, the more frightened she was that this meeting wouldn’t work out.

With a slight creak, the door pushed open ushering Kathy and Gregory inside. The little boy held Kathy’s hand, standing a little bit behind her. He had a skeptical look on his face as he saw them.

“Hey.” Chase said with an easy smile. Brook Lynn was both annoyed and grateful at her husband’s ability to turn on what she and Maxie had dubbed “the kid charm” with such ease. He might say he was nervous. But when he was able to do things like this? She refused to believe it. “Do you remember us from the animal park?”

It took a second and a quick glance at Kathy but Gregory did start to nod slowly.

“But I’m guessing you don’t remember our names.” Chase nodded. “You’re Gregory. I’m Chase and this is my wife Brook Lynn.”

“I ‘member.” Gregory said quietly. “The llama”

“Right. We met at the llama” Brook Lynn finally found her voice. “Good memory.”

“We were just wondering if it was cool if we all hung out a bit?” Chase asked. He pointed up at Kathy. “Kathy can stay with us. But we had so much fun with you and the llama we thought it might be fun to hang out again. Is that ok with you?”

“I’ll be here the whole time.” Kathy promised. The gentle squeeze she gave Gregory’s hand didn’t escape Brook Lynn’s notice.

Gregory nodded a little bit but kept a firm grip on Kathy’s hand. It was a start at least. On a small play table, Brook Lynn noticed a farm play set. She walked over and grabbed the plastic cow off the table. “I know you liked the animals we met. What’s your favorite animal?”

Squinting his eyes in thought for a minute, Gregory gave a little smile. “Horses.” The little lisps on the esses made it sound like the most adorable word in the world to her heart.

“I like horses too.” She told him as she sat down on the floor.

“In fact” Chase added, “Her family owns horses. And our friend Cody? He takes care of them.’

“Like a cowboy?” Gregory asked.

Brook Lynn let out a little laugh. “Not really but he pretends to be one.”

“Maybe one day we’ll take you over there to meet the horses.” Chase smiled as Gregory nodded.

“We’ll make it happen.” Brook Lynn promised as he let go of Kathy’s hand for the first time. That had to be a good sign, she told herself. Kathy shot her a wink as she went to sit down on the couch behind them. “What else do you like?”

“Tar Wars”

Brook Lynn fought back the urge to laugh as Chase lit up like a Christmas tree. “You are in luck. Chase loves Star Wars.”

Chase snapped his fingers. “Just a second I thought I saw something over there in one of the bins.” Standing up, he went rummaging through a bin of toys only to hold two plastic light sabers up in triumph. Of course her husband had spotted those immediately. Or probably felt them through the force. He handed one over to Gregory. “I think Young Jedi battle we must.”

As the two of them started to lightly hit the plastic against each other, Brook Lynn moved to sit on the couch next to Kathy. It seemed vaguely rude to not even talk to her directly when she was in the same room as them. “My husband. The eternal child where Star Wars is concerned.”

“I’m pretty sure everyone is an eternal child about something.” Kathy smiled. “Even this old broad. You’re doing great by the way.”

“Really? Because I have no idea what I’m doing and I feel completely awkward.”

“Congratulations. That’s what parenting feels like at all times.”

Chapter Text

They got lucky and this was the first nice Saturday Port Charles had in the past month. Kathy Winters made sure to keep a firm grip on Gregory’s hand as they made their way through the park to where they were meeting Chase and Brook Lynn. The last few visits at the office had been going well, so the decision was made to do some in a neutral location in the community.

“You still back there buddy?” she asked, looking behind her. Seeing Gregory nod seriously she shot him a wink. “We’re almost there.”

She said a silent prayer that these visits would continue to do well and that Gregory had found a match with the young couple. She had been fostering for decades and she knew the statistics. The older a kid got, the harder it was to find them a home. Didn’t matter how great a kid was, once they got older than about five, it was almost impossible. She hated to see any kid not have a home but seeing the younger ones and knowing how most of the stories turned out made her heart break. Especially the ones that had been in the system their entire life. They just didn’t know anything else and once those kids turned 18 and everything they ever knew was removed from them? They struggled.

And she did not want Gregory to struggle anymore than he already had in his first five years.

Spotting Chase standing underneath the tree closest to the entrance to the dog park, Kathy bit back a smile as she recognized Brook Lynn pacing nervously behind him. Even though they had only met a few times, she could tell the young woman was putting tremendous pressure on herself for these visits to go well. She hoped at some point she could convince her she was doing just fine, that all she really needed to be able to do was love Gregory and it seemed like she was well on her way to doing just that.

Stopping she bent down to point to the companion Chase and Brook Lynn had brought with them. “Gregory. Buddy. Look who Chase and Brook Lynn brought.”

Gregory’s face lit up. “Puppy!” he exclaimed as he jumped up and down. Well that answered that question. Chase had asked if Gregory was afraid of dogs but he hadn’t been around one as far as anyone knew. Seeing the way the kid was practically vibrating with excitement, Kathy felt it was safe to say Gregory was a dog person.

“Hello.” she greeted them as they finally made their way to the meeting spot. “And who is this?”

Chase knelt down on the ground while Brook Lynn took the leash from him. Gregory slowly made his way closer. “Hey Gregory. This is our dog Panda. Do you want to say hi?” Seeing Gregory nod, Chase took his hand and softly placed it on Panda’s head. “He likes it when you pat his head.”

Gregory followed his instructions and Panda almost immediately started nuzzling against his hand. Brook Lynn smiled as she lowered herself to scratch behind the puppy’s ears. “We’re going to take him into the little dog park to run around because he has a lot of energy. You want to come with us?” She pointed over to a nearby playground. “When he gets tired was can go over there if you want.”

“I wanna play with Panda” Gregory said in his little voice.

“Well let’s go play with Panda.” Brook Lynn said as she stood up.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Why do I feel the same way I did when you met Ma?” Brook Lynn asked as they sat down on a bench as Gregory and Kathy walked back to their car. Panda was sitting peacefully at their feet and would surely fall asleep if they stayed there too long.

“Because Panda is the most important person in the world to you?” Chase joked as he put his arm around her shoulder before she could punch him in the side. “Come on, you knew I was going to say it.”

“I’m being serious. That did go well right?”

He would never understand Brook Lynn’s mind at times, but especially he would never understand her talent for convincing herself of worst case scenarios despite all evidence to the contrary. “If we don’t leave in about five minutes, we’ll have to carry Panda back to the car like a child. In fact, I think you are in danger of being replaced as Panda’s favorite person. We might want to rethink this entire adoption thing in that case.”

“Don’t even joke about that.” Brook Lynn shot him a sour look. “I just really want this to go well and I know you’re going to tell me it is.”

“Because it is.”

“Maybe I need to stop reading all the almost adoption horror stories on the internet.”

“Yes I think that’s a good first step.” Another thing he would never understand is how Brook Lynn found some of the things she would find online. “Look I know we’re both nervous but I think we have to trust that Gregory will let us know if he’s uncomfortable. Or he’ll tell Kathy. But so far I think he likes us. And he absolutely likes Panda.”

“You’re right. I know you are. I guess it’s just not meeting at the Cabinet office that is making this more real. I mean if these visits keep going well soon we’ll be visiting without Kathy. And then he’ll be spending the night at our house.”

“I get it but one step at a time.” Chase took a breath. “Speaking of steps, we need to start thinking about when to tell our families about Gregory.”

“It would be our luck that Finn would drop Violet off for a surprise visit when Gregory is visiting.” Brook Lynn nodded. “But I still think it’s too soon. I’ll admit the visits are going well but you know the second we tell them, they’ll want to be involved in every visit.”

“Trust me I know. And since we’re moving at Gregory’s pace here,what if we wait until right before he starts spending the night? We’ll have to re-do the room for him anyway so it would att least make sense.”

After thinking about his suggestion for a minute, Brook Lynn nodded her head. “Yeah there would be a lot of questions about why we’re making a room for a five year old boy. I can live with that plan.”

“Good. Then while I’m on this winning streak, I suggest we get Panda home and order dinner.”

“That sounds perfect.”

Chapter Text

It was a sign that she was closer to retirement age than she cared to admit when Susan looked at a child playing on the ground and her first thought was to look for a chair with good lumbar support to sit in. There was a time she would have gotten on the floor with Gregory and started playing Lego’s with him and have no problems. Now if she did that, she’d be in pain for the rest of the week. She shot a look over to Kathy, sitting on the couch and knitting what Susan knew was going to be a blanket for when Gregory left her house. “So how do you think the visits are going?” She asked.

The needles didn’t stop in Kathy’s hands. “I think they’re going well. The dog is a big hit. And Gregory isn’t nearly as shy as he was the first few times. He’s even started asking when the next time he’s going to see them again is.”

“Really?” Susan looked over to where Gregory sat on the floor, playing quietly as he always did. “Sounds like you have a good time when you see Chase and Brook Lynn.”

Gregory nodded. “And Panda.”

“Well of course we can’t forget the dog.” Susan agreed. “But you like them?”

Nodding again, Gregory kept his eyes on his Lego’s. “They’re nice.”

“Well I’m glad they’re nice. I wouldn’t let you meet them if they weren’t.” She leaned forward, resting her hands on her knees. “What about seeing them more often? Without Miss Kathy. Would that be ok?”

“No Miss Kathy?” he asked with a faint trace of alarm in his voice. Susan didn’t blame him. Gregory had been through several foster home changes in his short life and he was unfortunately used to moving at a moment’s notice. “I go live with them now?”

“Not just yet.” Susan gestured for him to come closer to her. “Do you remember when we talked at the office about finding you a family to stay with for forever? No more moving. That part of my job was to try to find you a mom or a dad or even both?”

Seeing him nod, she continued. “Well I think Brook Lynn and Chase could be a mommy and daddy for you. And I know they like you. But I want to make sure that you like them too. And part of that is you spending time with them without Miss Kathy. And if that goes ok, then you stay with them a few nights. We’re not going to move you until all of us, even you agree that it’s working ok?”

Gregory sat quietly for a minute, the only sound in the living room being the clicking of Kathy’s knitting needles. “A family?” he asked.

“Yes. A family. But we’re going to make sure that it’s the right family. So should we spend some time with Chase and Brook Lynn without Miss Kathy?”

“Will Panda be there?”

“At least some of the time.”

“Ok.” Gregory said softly. “Ok. I like them.”

“Well I’m glad to hear that. And I know they will be too.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

She knew she should wait. She shouldn’t go into the station and pull Chase off whatever case he was working. It would only delay him and really she could just wait until he got home. But she couldn’t. Ever since she got off the phone, Brook Lynn couldn’t think of anything but going to the station and telling Chase everything.

“Brook Lynn.” Dante greeted her as she came around the desk sargent’s station. She gave a distracted wave to Tony as her stepbrother stood up. “What are you doing here?”

“Looking for Chase. Is he here?” she asked, trying to look over his shoulder.

“He’s talking to Anna. Should be back in a bit.” Dante grabbed a file from the stack on his desk. “Tell him I went ahead to talk to the DA’s office about the warrant.”

“Will do.” Brook Lynn offered a mock salute before sitting down in Chase’s chair. She smiled as she remembered the first time she had seen him sitting in this spot, writing up her first arrest report. If she had only known then…well she probably would have never believed it if she had known then what the future held for them.

“Babe.” Chase smiled as he came around the corner and spotted her. “Is everything ok? Why are you here?”

Hugging him quickly, she took a breath to steady her nerves. “Everything is fine. I just needed to talk to you.”

One of the many things she loved about Chase was the fact that he never questioned why she needed to talk to him in the middle of his shift. Never asked if it could wait. He just took her at her word and made himself available. Just like he did now, quickly checking to see if the interrogation room was free before pulling her inside.”Ok. Talk.”

“I just got off the phone with Susan. She just visited with Gregory.”

“Oh.” Chase said, realizing dawning on why she had to come and talk to him.

“Yeah they talked about him visiting us without Kathy. And she brought up the idea of adoption.”

“Ok. I mean I knew she was going to talk to him about it soon, I just didn’t think it was today.”

“Same here. But if I had known I probably would have been a nervous wreck the entire day so probably a good thing I didn’t.” She pointed her finger at him. “And no jokes about that.”

Chase held his hands up in protest. “Wasn’t thinking of it. What did she say?”

“He…he….” Brook Lynn’s voice caught in her throat and she could feel tears starting to form in her eyes. She felt her face break out into a huge smile. “He’s ok with it. Maybe it’s just because he likes Panda but he didn't hate the idea of us adopting him.”

Chase had his arms around her before she could even finish the sentence, hugging her with all his might. “It’s happening.” She whispered into his shoulder. It’s really happening.”

“It really is.’ He agreed. “Of course now we have to figure out when to tell our families.”

“Don’t ruin the moment.”

Chapter Text

The pediatric floor was always the one with the most energy surrounding it. There was always some little one running around a corner, talking too loud, or a commotion happening with the toys in the waiting room. It was chaotic and sometimes loud and it reminded Elizabeth of when all three of her boys were little. She smiled as she logged into the computer at the nurse's desk, hearing someone singing along to Sesame Street in the waiting room. Oh to be that young and carefree.

And to not be confronted with a mystery as Brook Lynn came around the corner with a woman and small boy that Elizabeth didn’t recognize. Brook Lynn and the boy were in conversation as they approached the desk and the other woman didn’t look up until they stopped, meeting Elizabeth's eyes with her own shocked ones. “Elizabeth. I didn’t know you were working down here today.”

“They were a little short staffed on the floor so I came down.” she explained, smiling at the boy who quickly grabbed the hand of the older woman as he realized Elizabeth was looking at him. “What are you doing here?”

“Brook Lynn I’m going to get the paperwork and then he’s all yours” the stranger said as she walked over towards the other side of the desk.

“Ok Kathy. I’ll just be a minute.” Brook Lynn gestured for Elizabeth to follow her towards the elevators. “Ok please tell me Finn isn’t consulting on this floor today.”

“Not as far as I know.” Elizabeth promised with a laugh. “What is going on?”

“You have to promise me you aren’t going to tell anyone. I mean not even Aiden. Well not that I think Aiden would tell everyone but if Chase doesn’t get the chance to tell Finn and his dad it will crush him.”

“I promise. Not a word. What has you so wound up like this?”

Brook Lynn took a deep breath. “The little boy? His name is Gregory and Chase and I are in the process of adopting him.”

“Oh my God!” Elizabeth said excitedly before hugging her friend. “Oh my God! Why hasn’t Finn said anything?”

“We haven’t told our families yet.” Elizabeth must have showed her surprise on her face because Brook Lynn rolled her eyes. “I know. We’re insane. But we didn’t want to say anything before we knew everything was going well. We didn’t get everyone’s hopes up and then fall apart. And then we didn’t want to overwhelm a kid with …well you know my ma and Olivia. Not to mention Tracy.”

“Ok I can get that but how far along in this process are you?”

“We’re starting unsupervised visits? And if those go well, then we’ll do some overnight visits before he moves in with us.” Brook Lynn pushed her hair behind her ears. “And we’re going to tell them. The ELQ/GH softball game is soon and we figured that’s going to be the best time. If Gregory gets overwhelmed we can go to another spot in the park. Half the family will be playing so they can’t be right there with him the whole time….”

“Hey. Hey.” Elizabeth put her hand on Brook Lynn’s arm. “I won’t say anything. And I think that the game is a great idea. You tell me his favorite cookies and I’ll make sure Aiden makes them. I am so happy for you and I can’t wait to get to know him.”

“Thank you Elizabeth.” Brook Lynn smiled as Gregory and the older woman approached. “Kathy. Gregory. This is my friend Elizabeth.”

“Nice to meet you.” Elizabeth shook Kathy’s offered hand and leaned down to meet Gregory’s eyes. “And very nice to meet you.”

“Well I got all the paperwork I need so Gregory you have a good time with Brook Lynn and Chase today. Chase will bring you back home later ok?” Gregory nodded and took Brook Lynn’s hand as Kathy smiled down at him.

“Thanks Kathy. We’ll see you later. Right Gregory?” Brook Lynn smiled as she waved goodbye. “So now that we’re done with the doctor, I think we should leave don’t you?”

Gregory nodded, his eyes still warily on Elizabeth.

“What are you going to do?” she asked as Brook Lynn hit the button for the elevator.

“We’re going to go to the house and I’m going to show him around. Maybe see what room he wants to stay in when he spends the night.”

“Panda.” Gregory chimed in softly.

“Yes, play with Panda. And you said you were going to help me make a pie for dinner. I’m sure Chase will have some plan when he gets off work and then we’ll go back to your house.”

“Well that sounds like a very full day” Elizabeth remarked as the sound of the bell indicated the elevator had arrived. “And I need to get back to work. It was very nice to meet you Gregory. Brook Lynn I’ll call you later.”

Brook Lynn nodded before mouthing the words thank you over Gregory’s head. Elizabeth kept her smile in check until the elevator doors closed. Then she felt her smile widen and she had a feeling, it wasn’t going to go away the rest of the day.

`~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“So” Brook Lynn asked as she ushered Gregory into the second upstairs bedroom. “Here’s your other choice.” She watched as Gregory moved carefully through the room, looking at everything which she would be the first to say wasn’t much. They hadn’t done much to the guest rooms, since once they decided to adopt they figured it would be better to let the kid decide what they wanted in the room. Within reason of course.

Gregory turned and looked at her, a serious look on his face. “I get to choose my room? And it would be just mine?”

“Yes. We can use the other one when Violet and Leo come over. You remember we talked about them, right?”

Gregory nodded, as he scrunched his nose up in thought. He looked so cute that Brook Lynn wished she could sneak a picture on her phone but it would be impossible. He tilted his head for a second and then asked “Where is your room?”

Motioning with her hand for him to follow her, she pointed to the door that was just down the hall from them. “Right there. And I’m going to guess your next question is where does Panda sleep and the answer to that is downstairs.”

Giggling at her answer, Gregory smiled. “This room.” He nodded.

“You sure? The other room is pretty cool too.”

Nodding his head, Gregory’s voice dropped to a whisper. “I scared of the dark.” He pointed in the direction where her and Chase’s room was. Brook Lynn nodded in sudden understanding. He wanted this room because it was closer to them. In case he got scared.

“Well we’ll have to get you a nightlight.” She said, trying to keep the waiver of tears out of her voice. “But we’ll do that next visit. Tonight we got a pie to make.”

“Can Panda help?”

“Absoultely not.”

Chapter Text

The stars produced by his new nightlight bounced over the ceiling. Gregory snuggled under the covers further, hugging his stuffed turtle that Miss Kathy got him for Christmas last year. The turtle’s name was Tony and when he was scared of the dark, Tony made him feel less alone. Tony was also an excellent secret keeper, since the only people that knew he was afraid of the dark were Tony, Miss Kathy and now Chase and Brook Lynn.

Chase and Brook Lynn had to know he was afraid. It was his first sleepover anywhere and he didn’t want to be a big baby, crying to go home like he heard Johnny Slattery did when he slept over for Billy Michaels’ birthday party. A party that he couldn’t go to because Miss Susan wasn’t able to get Billy’s parents approved. He didn’t know what that part meant, but it meant he was the only boy in his class that couldn’t go to the party. Johnny had made fun of him for it. So Gregory was glad when he found out Johnny had gotten scared and had to leave. He wasn’t going to be so scared.

When Miss Kathy told him about the sleepover, Gregory had been excited but nervous. He didn’t know what he was supposed to do. But Chase had picked him up after school today and they went to a big building where Brook Lynn worked to pick her up before coming back to the house. Before he and Chase went out back to play with Panda, they had taken him upstairs to show him the room he had picked out the first time he had come over. The bed now had animals on the sheets and a green and blue striped comforter instead of the boring brown one he remembered from his first visit.

He couldn’t believe everything in this room was just for him. Brook Lynn had said he could pick something else if he didn’t like anything but he loved all of it. Gregory remembered running over and hugging her after she said that. Brook Lynn was an excellent hugger, he decided. It was a very important thing for a possible mommy to be.

As far back as he could remember, even when he was a baby and not in school yet, he remembered a lot of workers talking about adoption. He knew that meant the workers were looking for a family for him to stay with forever. It was a big thing forever, Gregory thought. It was a longer time than he could even think of. Being a part of a family for forever? That was super important. It was even more important than learning to read. He took his time learning to read, so it only made sense that the worker take their time with a new family.

This was the longest time he had met with people that Miss Susan had introduced him to. It was the first time he got to go with people other than Miss Kathy without her or Miss Susan being there. And it was the first time someone other than Miss Kathy picked him up at school. Even if it wasn’t his first sleepover ever, Gregory knew this was super important.

He moved Tony so he could see him. “Tony” He whispered. “I think I like it here.”

Panda was the best dog in the whole world. Maybe as good of a secret keeper as Tony was, but Gregory hadn’t told Panda any secrets yet. Chase was super fun and when they were playing in the yard before dinner, he had shown him how to throw a baseball better. Brook Lynn was so pretty and she cooked real good. They were both really nice. They even let him pick out the movie they watched after dinner.

The door opened slightly before Chase came into the room. “I thought I heard whispering in here. Can’t sleep?”

Gregory shook his head and sat up as Chase came over to sit on the bed. He held up Tony. “Tony can’t sleep either.”

“Is the nightlight not working?” Chase guessed.

“Not the dark.” Gregory shook his head.

“Well that’s good. But it’s late and you need some sleep. I don’t know if they’ll let you come back if we take you back to Miss Kathy all tired tomorrow. So we need to do something for you and Tony.” Chase squinted as he thought about what they should do. “What do we think about a lullabye?”

“That’s for babies.”

“It works for babies. But ok you’re too old for that. I get it.”

“Oh so this is where you disappeared to.” Brook Lynn’s voice made Gregory look over at the door where she leaned against the wall, with her arms crossed. “What are you doing up little man?”

“He can’t sleep,” Chase explained as she came into the room. He pointed to Tony. “Tony can’t sleep either. We’re trying to figure out some way to get to sleep.”

“Well I know what’s going to work. And I know this because it works for every kid that you know. We need a bedtime story.” Brook Lynn stopped and looked over the books that were now stacked on a small bookcase along one wall of the room. Picking a book out, she came over to the bed and handed it to Chase. She sat up by his pillow with him. Gregory cuddled himself against her side, keeping Tony tightly under one arm. “You comfortable?” She asked him. Gregory nodded and she squeezed his arm gently. “Ok we’re all set here. Go for it.”

“The Smart Cookie.” Chase started.

As Chase started reading about the cookie who wanted to be smart and know all the answers but didn’t get the best grades in class, Gregory smiled as he listened to the story. A few more pages and he felt his eyes start to close. The last thing he remembered was being moved from Brook Lynn’s side and the covers being pulled around him and Tony.

Yeah, he decided. He liked it here.

Chapter Text

“Ok, let's go over the plan one more time.” Brook Lynn turned in her seat to be able to see both Chase behind the wheel and Gregory securely in the back seat in his booster seat. It had seemed like months away when they had first thought about using the ELQ versus General Hospital softball game as the time to introduce Gregory to the rest of the family, but now that the game was in a few short hours it felt like the most impulsive decision they had ever made. Right up there with her attempt to make Chase a pop star.

But this had to go perfectly. For Gregory’s sake.

She looked back at Gregory. “Where are we going?” she asked him.

“The park for a softball game.”

“And who’s going to be there?”

“I’m going to meet a lot of people.”

“Right.” Chase chimed in with a smile. “And while they are playing in the game we’ll go to the playground. And if you feel it’s too much at any time….”

“We go home.” Gregory finished, holding Tony the Turtle against his chest.

“That’s right. We go home.” Brook Lynn tried to keep her breath from catching on the word home. The overnight visits and weekends were going well so Gregory was going to spend the next two weeks with them. If that went well as everyone hoped it would, he’d be moving in by the end of the month. And then it was just a waiting game for when the court assigned a date to make the adoption final.

But before they could get to any of that, they had to introduce Gregory to the rest of the family. In all their competitive glory. Chase shot her a wink as he started the car. She let out a breath. “Ok let’s roll.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

They made their way through the park, with Gregory in the middle holding each of their hands. Chase held on to Tony, an honor she was sure was going to hear him bragging about for the rest of the day. She could feel her mother and Olivia’s eyes on them before she spotted them by the bleachers. A quick glance told her that her grandmother, Gregory, Finn and Violet were all near the playground with her father and Leo heading in that same direction. Although she didn’t see them right this second, she was sure Maxie, Sasha, Cody and Liz were all somewhere in the crowd. Brook Lynn caught Chase’s eyes and made a gesture towards Lois and Olivia with her head. Chase nodded as Brook Lynn let go of Gregory’s hand and knelt down to talk to him.

“Chase is going to take you to the playground and I’m going to go talk with my mom and stepmom. I’ll be over as soon as I’m done ok?”

Gregory nodded, dropping Chase’s hand to give her a hug. “Promise?”

“I promise.” She hugged him back before letting him go. “You’ll be having so much fun you won’t even know I’m gone.”

He gave her a skeptical look, which was probably one of the most adorable things she had ever seen but he went with Chase towards the playground. Brook Lynn stood up, unsurprised to find Lois and Olivia had watched the entire thing. “Now or never” she whispered to herself as she made her way closer to them. “Hello.” she greeted both of them with hugs. “Now are we going to win this game or what?”

“I mean of course we’re going to win but don’t think you can get out of questions that easily missy” Lois waved her nails in Brook Lynn’s face. If her nerves weren't racing she would have admired her mother’s baseball themed nails.

“Exactly.” Olivia agreed with a nod. “Are you and Chase baby sitting for a neighbor?”

“No. Definitely not that.” Brook Lynn laughed nervously. “That….if everything in the next month goes right, is the boy Chase and I will be adopting. Our son.”

She should have had her phone ready to take a picture because the stunned looks on both of their faces was truly something that would never happen again. Both her mother and Olivia speechless. No one would believe it. True to form, Lois found her voice first.

“Your son….you mean that little boy is going to be my grandson?”

“If everything keeps going well? Yes.”

“But…how…why did we not know about him until now?” Olivia asked. “How long have you been doing this? We would have been there to support you.”

“We know that. We just didn’t know how long it was going to take to find a good match and didn’t know how many times we’d have to meet kids before we found the right one. We just didn’t want to get everyone’s hopes up over and over again. We didn’t expect to find him so quickly.” Brook Lynn smiled. “Plus he’s a little shy so introducing him to all of you needed to be done slowly. At his pace.”

Lois nodded, her eyes filling with tears. “Speaking like a mother already.”

“Ma. See this is exactly why didn’t we want to say anything before now. He doesn’t call us mom and dad yet. We’re just Chase and Brook Lynn and it’s his choice what to call us.”

“Understood” Lois said as both she and Olivia put their hands up in understanding. “But that is still exactly what a mother would say.”

“Oh my god would you stop?”

“Well what did you expect? That we wouldn’t have questions?” Olivia asked.

“No I expected exactly this, which is why we waited this long to tell you anything.”

“Well you haven’t told us anything yet.” Olivia pointed out. “For starters, what is our grandson’s name?”

“Before I tell you, you need to promise no screaming. I know how you both are and I won’t have you scaring him before he’s even met you.”

“Us? Scream?” Lois scoffed. “Why would we do that? We are about to be nonnas and nonnas do not scream.”

“No we don’t.” Olivia agreed. “We have too much wisdom and dignity for that.”

“Yeah I’ll ask Rocco about that.” Brook Lynn closed her eyes and took a breath. “His name is Gregory. Gregory Edward.”

They may not have screamed but Brook Lynn was pretty sure the noises Lois and Olivia were letting out were hurting the ears of every dog in the park. She honestly didn’t know voices could go that high.

“It’s a sign!” they said in unison.

“Yes I know it’s a sign. But we still aren’t tempting fate here ok?”

“Never.” Lois promised as Olivia crossed herself and looked up to heaven. “But you still need to tell us everything about him. And I mean everything.”

“Of course I’m going to tell you everything. You think I don’t want to tell you what an amazing kid he is?”

“Once again, spoken like a mother.”

Chapter Text

Quickly looking over his shoulder, Chase had to swallow a laugh. The hands waving. At least one finger pointing to the sky. He didn’t need to be within earshot to know that both Lois and Olivia were declaring Gregory’s name to be a sign. He could almost feel Brook Lynn rolling her eyes at their antics. He really did owe her for breaking the news to them on her own. He had no doubt he would have doubled over laughing at this point.

The gentle tugging on his hand made him switch his focus to the small boy next to him. Gregory pointed at the small group that was currently looking at the two of them approaching. “Who are they?” he asked.

Dropping to his knee, Chase pointed to each person. “The lady is Brook Lynn’s grandma Tracy. The guy standing next to her is Brook Lynn’s dad Ned. You see the guy with the baseball bat? That’s my brother Finn. And the guy with the cane? That’s my dad Gregory.”

“We have the same name?”

“You do.” Chase nodded, catching sight of Violet and Leo running towards them. “But right now you’re going to meet Violet and Leo.”

“Uncle Chase!” Violet stopped suddenly with Leo close at her heels. “You made it!”

“Of course I did. Who would miss this?” He stood up a little, seeing all three kids eying each other in curiosity. “Violet, Leo this is Gregory. I was going to take him over the playground but I think he’d have more fun with the two of you.” He looked over to Gregory. “Do you want to go with them? I’ll be with the rest of the grown ups and you can come over any time.”

Gregory nodded slowly, glancing at Tony the Turtle securely in Chase’s other hand. Violet grinned and waved her hand for Gregory to follow her. As she took off, Gregory followed slowly with Leo matching his speed. Chase watched them for a few seconds before going to join the rest of the assembled family.

“And are we just picking up any and all children around town and bringing them along?” Tracy asked when he came close enough for him to hear her.

“Tracy.” He nodded. “I’m surprised you’re here by the playground instead of closer to the field with Lois and Olivia.”

“There’s time enough to go deaf from their screaming later.”

“I won’t phrase it as colorfully as Tracy did,but I am curious, son. Who did you bring with you?” Gregory leaned more purposefully on his cane. “Watching one of the neighbors?”

“No.” Chase took a deep breath. It was now or never. “Brook Lynn and I have decided to adopt. And if things continue to go as well as they have been for the past few months, that little boy will be our son.”

When they had discussed using the game as the time to tell their families about Gregory, they had never discussed the possibility of filming the reactions. Chase really wished he had thought about getting his phone out before he had said anything because Tracy’s look of open mouth stunned amazement was something he was pretty sure he was never going to see again. It was Finn who found his words first.

“Bro. That’s…..that’s amazing. I’m so happy for you.” Chase accepted his brother’s hug as the rest of the group started to process what he had said.

“A grandson. I’ll have a grandson.” Ned said slowly, a smile starting to fill his face.

“Why didn’t we know about this before?” Tracy asked.

“Tracy” His dad and Finn admonished her.

“It’s ok.” Chase shook his head. “We figured you all would ask that. We didn’t know how long the process would take and we didn’t want to get everyone’s hopes up. And when we realized we were ok with adopting an older child we didn’t overwhelm them with the entire family at once.”

“We can be a handful. But it’s part of our charm.” Ned admitted as he clapped his hand on Chase’s shoulder. “Now tell us everything about my grandson.”

“Our grandson.” Gregory corrected.

“Of course. Of course. Our grandson.” Ned nodded. “We want to know all about him.”

“He’ll be six in March and starting first grade in the fall. He loves horses and Star Wars so Cody will be a big hit when they meet. And his name….”Chase paused a moment. “His name is Gregory. Gregory Edward.”

There were only a few times in his life when he had seen his father cry and been the cause of the tears. The last time was probably his wedding. But seeing his dad tear up when he found out Gregory’s name, that was a time Chase was going to remember for the rest of his life. He didn’t miss the suspicious way Tracy started blinking her eyes and biting the corner of her lip either.

“Well…that…that is a fine name.” Ned said, his voice a little shaky. “A very fine name.”

“Were you looking for that name specifically?” Finn wondered. “Becuase I’m sure there are me.”

“You caught us. We went to the social worker and said we only want to adopt a boy with the name Gregory Edward so I can win some imaginary contest with my brother.” Chase deadpanned.

“I’m just saying, the whole process would have gone a lot faster if you didn’t do that.” Finn pointed to Tony. “And I’m assuming this belongs to my nephew and isn’t a new police issued tool you need to use.”

“He’s Tony the Turtle and he’s very important.”

“Of course he is with a name like that.” Gregory nodded, his eyes tracking Violet, Gregory and Leo playing together. Chase saw Gregory look up and spot him. Chase waved and saw Gregory nod back before busying himself on the swing. “Now that we know about him, do we actually get to meet him?”

“He’s a little shy.” Chase explained. “So not all at once. And Finn we thought we’d leave you for last because we can just leave when you weird him out.” He laughed a little as Finn nodded in agreement. “And we thought…you might like to go first Dad.”

Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Tracy and Ned smile in agreement. His dad closed his eyes for a second before he opened them and wiped a stray tear off his face. “I would love to.”

“Then follow me.” Gregory followed Chase’s lead as they made their way closer to the playground. He helped his dad sit down on one of the benches before calling Gregory. “Hey Gregory. Come here for a second.”

Gregory came over and pointed to Tony. Chase quickly handed him over. “You having fun?”

Gregory nodded slightly. “Violet…talks a lot.”

“Yeah she can do that.” Chase smiled, ruffling the boy’s hair. “You ok with meeting someone?” Checking to make sure Gregory nodded, he then turned to them both towards his father. “Gregory, this is my dad.”

“The one with my name?”

“The very one.” His dad smiled before offering out his hand. “It is very nice to meet another Gregory.”

This time Chase did manage to get his phone out and snap a picture of his son shaking his father’s hand for the first time. Not that he would ever forget it.

Chapter Text

Waiting for the kettle to whistle, Tracy continued to gather the necessary items for a proper cup of tea. Sasha was a more than adequate cook and while her tea was passable it wasn’t what Tracy was needing tonight. Tonight she needed the best cup of tea possible to help her calm down. Because her thoughts hadn’t stopped racing since Chase had broken the news of the impending adoption.

“Mother.” Ned said as he came into the kitchen. “I thought I heard someone puttering around in here.”

“I do not putter. Puttering is for doddering idiots.” Tracy huffed. “Tea?”

“I did not mean to imply that’s what you were. And yes. I would love to join you for a cup.” Ned sat down at the island, gesturing for her to do the same. As she sat down, he smiled. “I think you and I are probably up for the same reason.”

“I must say I did not see the game going that way.” Tracy allowed before smiling. “You’ll have a grandson.”

“And you’ll have a great grandson.” Ned pointed out, chuckling at the face she made. “You don’t fool me. I know you’re going to spoil that boy every chance you get.”

“You’ve gotten me confused with yourself and Olivia. And Lois. And Gregory. I don’t think he’ll have a lack of attention.” Tracy shook her head. “No someone needs to make sure he is raised properly as befitting a Quartermaine and as it always does with this family, it will fall to me to ensure that it happens.”

“I am sure Chase and Brook Lynn will do a wonderful job with Gregory.” Ned smiled, shaking his head. “I know I don’t subscribe to Olivia and Lois’s belief in signs but when Chase told us his name…”

“If you breathe a word of this I will have you sent to Fernciff” Tracy went to get the now whistling kettle and poured the water into two cups. “But I wouldn’t have completely dismissed that notion either.”

“Mother. Are you getting soft in your mature age?”

“Never. And you never could make a cup of tea correctly.” She took the cup from her son and busied her hands with the ritual of making sure the correct ratio of water, tea and lemon was followed. Passing the cup back to him, she smiled as he took a sip, sighing in satisfaction.

“Exactly like Grandmother would make.” Ned declared. “You know I was thinking about her a lot today.”

“Me too.” Tracy admitted. “She would have had him sitting on her lap before the first inning was over.”

“That she would have.” Ned chuckled. “I think they lucked out with a very special little boy.”

“And he lucked out with some very special parents.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“What are you still doing up?” Brook Lynn asked from the doorway of Gregory’s room. Gregory jumped a little in his bed, holding Tony closer to him. He hadn’t heard her open the door. He shrugged his shoulders as she came closer and sat on the edge of his bed.

“Can’t sleep.”

“Well I don’t think you’ve been asleep yet so it couldn’t be a bad dream. Too many people today maybe?”

Gregory nodded. “There was a lot.”

Laughing, Brook Lynn leaned forward. “I’ll tell you a secret. When Chase met my family? He felt the same way. But don’t you tell him I told you.”

Gregory nodded. Chase had to go to work right after they got home so he’d have to wait until tomorrow if he wanted to tell him. But it was nice having a secret with Brook Lynn. “What do I call them all?”

“Well you can call them by their names just like you do me and Chase.”

“But if you guys adopt me, then they’ll be family.”

“Well when we adopt you, yes but we can figure that out later.” Brook Lynn tilted her head and moved closer to him. “And there’s no if about it little man. We are adopting you. Are you worried we won't?”

Concentrating on Tony’s hand, Gregory avoided looking at her. “But what if they didn’t like me?”

“Oh sweetie.” Moving to the headboard, Brook Lynn settled against it before pulling him and Tony closer to her. “Ok first, they loved you. Every last one of them. And I would know because my family doesn't hide their feelings really well. Second, even if they didn't, that wouldn’t change anything. The important thing is that we like you. We like you so much we want you to be in our family forever.” She hugged him to her side and Gregory cuddled closer to her. “You and Tony. But now I got a question for you. Do you want us to adopt you? Because if you aren’t happy here or want this, it’s ok. You have to be happy too.”

Looking up at her, Gregory nodded. “I want you to adopt me. I want you to be my mommy.”

Brook Lynn hugged him hard and kissed the top of his head. He was a little confused when he saw tears on her face. “Why are you crying?”

“I’m ok. Happy tears. These are happy tears. Because there is nothing more in the world that I want than to be your mommy.” She smiled. “And if Chase was here he’d tell you he can’t wait to be your daddy.”

“Promise?”

“I promise. And you’ll figure this out, but he’s a terrible liar. So if he didn’t want you to be our son, you’d have already known. And we would have never gotten this far if that was the case. You being happy with this situation is the whole point. If you weren’t happy there would be no point in going forward.”

“Tony wanted to know something.”

“Oh he did? Well what did Tony want to know?”

“If you’re going to adopt me, then shouldn’t I call you mommy and daddy?”

Brook Lynn wiped even more tears from her cheeks. He hoped they were still happy tears. “If that’s what you want to call us.”

Nodding, he smiled, hugging Tony closer to him. “Mommy?” he asked, trying the word out. It was his first time calling someone that and it felt like an important moment.

“Yes?”

“Can you read me a story?”

“Absolutely.”

Chapter Text

At the start of their relationship, every time he worked a late shift Brook Lynn would text him constantly until he told her he was home. And when they had first moved in together, she would stay up waiting for him to come through the door. With time, she had stopped doing it for every shift but she would still do it when he was called out for an especially dangerous situation. So to say he was surprised to see her up when he came upstairs was an understatement. And when Chase noticed she was sitting on the floor outside of Gregory’s room with tears on her face, his surprise changed immediately to concern.

“Babe?” He asked as he sat down next to her. “What’s wrong? Is Gregory ok?”

“He’s fine. He’s fine.” She reassured him, wiping her cheeks and smiling. She grabbed his hand in hers. “He’s perfect.”

“Ok good.” Chase let out a sigh of relief before the next possibility crossed his mind. “Is something wrong with my dad? Or Tracy?”

“No. Everyone is fine. Your dad. Granny. The whole family. They’re fine.”

“So if everyone is fine, do you want to explain why you’re sitting outside our son’s room crying and waiting for me to get back home?” He reached over and wiped away a stray tear from her cheek. “I’m not going to lie. You’re kinda freaking me out here Brook Lynn.”

“I don’t mean to.” Brook Lynn shifted her position so they could look each other in the eyes. His heart only stopped racing when he was able to see there was no trace of sadness in his wife’s eyes. “I went to check on Gregory and he was still awake.”

“Too overwhelmed from meeting everyone?” He guessed.

“Something like that. He was worried that if no one liked him, we’d change our mind about adopting him.”

“That’s ridiculous. Number one, of course they were going to love him. Number two, the only person who might have said something was Tracy and we both know she’d be faking it.”

“Which is what I told him. Well minus the stuff about Granny. She can be scary enough without my help. And then I told him that the most important thing was that he wanted to be adopted by us. That was the only opinion that mattered to us.”

Chase smiled. “Your mom instincts are kicking in, I see. That was the perfect thing to tell him.”

“Yeah I think so too.” Brook Lynn ducked her head, a telltale sniffle letting Chase know she had started crying again. Sure enough, when she looked up tears were once again falling down her cheeks. “Because after that he asked if he could call me mommy.”

He’d be lying to himself if Chase didn’t admit he felt his own eyes start to tear up at the news. Everyone had told them that it was best for Gregory to decide in his own time what to call them. They had even been told he might not ever use the name mom and dad. He knew they still had a long road ahead of them until everything was finalized and then an even longer road as they got to see Gregory grow up, but right here tonight? In the future Chase was sure this was the moment when he felt that they were fully a family and everything else was details. There would be birthdays and celebrations of the official adoption day, but this day was going to be a day he and Brook Lynn would celebrate every year.

“He called me mommy Chase.” Brook Lynn repeated as he pulled her into his arms and she buried her head into his shoulder. “He called me mommy.”

“The best mommy ever.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The next morning, Gregory shuffled down the stairs to breakfast with Tony trailing behind him. He patted Panda good morning from his spot in the living room before following his nose to the kitchen. Someone was cooking something and it smelled good.

“Well look who’s up.” Chase said from the stove. Gregory climbed into one of the seats at the island. “Since Mommy is meeting her friends for brunch, I thought we’d have French toast and then have Cody introduce you to the horses. Sound like a plan?”

So she told him. Gregory wasn’t really surprised. He was pretty sure they told each other everything. He nodded as the plate of French Toast was put in front of him. He took a bite as Chase poured a glass of milk for him. “Yummy.” he said around bites of food.

“Don’t talk with your mouth full. You’ll look like Panda when he’s eating everything in his bowl after being at the dog park all day. And that’s just gross.”

Gregory giggled. That really was gross. “How many horses does Cody have?”

“Cody takes care of them. Tracy and Ned own them. And there’s two. Comet and Hades. And if you want to try riding one, which you can, you’ll ride Comet.”

“Does Cody really live in a barn?”

“He did. That was before he and Sasha had Annie. She may be there today. But you’ll have to be really careful. She’s a little baby.”

Gregory nodded. His friend Austin at school had a new baby at home. He had heard all about how gentle you had to be when they were that little. Maybe he should bring Tony with him. Tony was probably great with babies.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Go for it.”

“So you’re gonna adopt me right?”

“Unless you changed your mind about wanting us to adopt you.” Gregory shook his head. “Then yes we’re going to adopt you.”

“I call Mommy Mommy. Should I call you Daddy?”

He could see Chase take a deep breath before answering him. “Well I have a question for you? Do you want to call me Daddy? Because you don’t have to just because you started calling Mommy, Mommy. If you want to keep calling me Chase, that’s fine.”

Looking at Tony from his spot on the island, Gregory felt braver. “I want to call you Daddy.”

“Then that’s what you’ll call me.”

Chapter Text

“Ok I know I’ve said this a million times already but that’s why you’re the song writing genius and not me.” Allison smiled as she and Brook Lynn sat down at the patio set in the backyard. “But your life right now is so cute that if I didn’t already love you, I’d hate you.”

“Yes. You’ve mentioned that like a million times.” Brook Lynn laughed as she looked over to where Gregory was currently playing with Panda. “But you aren’t here to talk about me. You’re here so we can talk about the album.”

“You mean the work of genius you created for me.”

“I have never said that.”

“No, that was the label.” Allison sat back in her seat with a smug smile. “I told you they would love it.”

“Oh you did not. You said you didn’t care if they loved it or not.” Brook Lynn threw a napkin in her direction which Allison easily swatted away with a laugh. “And I’m just glad they didn’t ask if we had written the soundtrack for a horror film.”

“I know you’re joking but we need to put a pin in that because seriously that would be amazing.”

“Can we focus on getting this album released before you start planning the next one?” She rolled her eyes in fake annoyance. “So are you finally going to tell me the title of this masterpiece or what?”

“My title was already brilliant and then you went and wrote those last few songs and now it’s genius level” Shortly after they had started visiting with Gregory, Brook Lynn had felt a burst of creativity. She wasn’t sure about the songs but they were at least somewhat happier than everything else she had written lately. “It’s like you knew what I had picked and you wrote them specifically to drive the entire thing home. Did Marty tell you?” Allison squinted her eyes while referring to her producer in Nashville. “He did, didn’t he? See I knew he was calling you behind my back.”

“Marty was not calling me behind your back. You were on every call we had. Quit your stalling and tell me already. You’ve been teasing me about this since before you left. How can I start lining up promotions for it if I don’t know what the album is even called?”

“Beauty out of ashes.” Allison smiled. “When we were first working on it, I was thinking the songs were the beauty part. But now? With all this?” She waved her hand around towards the house, the yard, Gregory and Panda. “This is it babe. This is the beauty. And I know it sucked how you got here, but you did.”

Brook Lynn took in a shaky breath. It wasn’t that long ago she would wake up at night and just remember waking up in the hospital after the accident. Those long days and nights where she couldn’t even breath the loss felt so huge. And then she thought about last week, when Gregory woke up in the middle of the night with an upset stomach. And the hours she and Chase had spent trying to figure out exactly how sick he was. She was positive Finn was not thrilled by the 2 am phone call and he was likely planning revenge for when they least expected it. But Gregory had finally fallen back asleep with his head in her lap and now he was running around the backyard like nothing had happened. In those dark days she could have never imagined her life could look like this and now she couldn’t imagine it any other way.

“It’s a great title.”

“Hell yeah it is.” Allison declared before covering her mouth with her hand. “Shit I didn’t mean to say that so loud.”

“Relax.” Brook Lynn laughed. “He’s hung out with Cody in the stables. I’m sure he’s heard it before.”

“Daddy!” Gregory’s excited shout caught her attention as Chase came into the backyard. While she smiled as she watched Gregory run up to hug Chase, she couldn’t shake a nagging worried feeling. Chase wasn’t supposed to be off shift for another three hours at least. What was he doing home so early?

“My favorite duet partner!” Allison said happily as Chase made his way towards them as Gregory went back to playing with Panda. “You can’t stay away can you?”

“From my family? No. From you?”

“Finish that sentence and see if I ever baby sit for you” Allison pointed her finger at him.

“Point taken. Hi Babe” He leaned down to kiss her cheek before sitting in the chair next to her.

“Hi. I didn’t think you were off for a few more hours. Is something wrong?”

“You know what?” Allison stood up from her chair. “I’m going to see what I can teach Gregory and Panda that I find hilarious but will drive you crazy. As all the best baby sitters do.”

“Thanks Alli.” Chase smiled and waited until she walked away. “And I’m not off. Something happened that I needed to tell you in person. Immediately. And Anna agreed when I told her. I have to be back in about an hour.”

“OK I wasn’t completely nervous before but now you’re freaking me out.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to.” Chase held her hand in his and took a breath. “I ran into Susan at the station.”

“Oh” Brook Lynn felt her heart stop. While she could stop by at any time during this trial placement, she wasn’t due to visit with them for at least another week. “Did she come by just to see you?”

“No. She was there about another case. Seeing me was an accident but since she was going to call us later anyway, it worked out.”

“She was going to call us? What about? Did something go wrong with the case? Is there some delay in the adoption?”

“No.” Chase smiled at her. “We have a date.”

Brook Lynn felt her heart start up again. A date. They had a date to go in front of the judge and finalize the adoption. Not that they weren’t a family already but it would be official. Gregory would be theirs. “We have a date?”

“We have a date.” Chase leaned over and kissed her softly, brushing some stray tears from her cheeks before he did so.

“Mommy?” Gregory’s little voice caught her attention. “Why are you crying?”

“It’s good sweetie. It’s good.” She picked him up and placed him in her lap. Allison caught her eye and motioned that she was going to leave and for Brook Lynn to call her later. Nodding, Brook Lynn waved goodbye before turning her attention back to her son. “You know how when we talk about the adoption, we have to go to the courthouse and see the judge?”

“Yeah?”

“Well,” Chase continued. “I saw Miss Susan and she just told me when the judge wants to see us. All three of us.”

Gregory was quiet for a second as he worked out what Chase was telling him. Then he looked between the both of them with a giant smile on his face. “Adoption day?”

“Adoption day.”

Chapter Text

The small waiting area outside of the family courtroom was crowded. On most days this wasn’t unusual. What was different about today was instead of bickering families, contentious divorces, or a sad solemn end of a marriage, today there was a happy buzz of anticipation in the room. Balloons were everywhere as well as bouquets of flowers. Children were dressed up in outfits normally reserved for family photos and holidays.

It was the official adoption day at the Port Charles courthouse and it was easily the best day of the month for everyone in the building.

Gregory sat contentedly on Brook Lynn’s lap, entertained by a video on her phone, Tony entrusted to Chase for the moment. She smoothed down his hair for what was probably close the hundredth time since they had left the house. She pretended not to notice her mother and Olivia shaking their heads in laughter as they caught her. Her father could deal with them today. Tracy, Gregory and Finn sat on the benches across from her, all three deep in conversation while Leo and Violet chattered happily among themselves. Elizabeth smiled as she finished her phone call and made her way back towards the group. “Sasha and Aiden have everything under control at the house. Between the two of them they’ve managed to keep Cody out of the kitchen.”

“Oh good. Then we’ll actually have something to eat” Tracy quipped.

“Everyone for the Colemyer case?” The bailiff stepped out of the courtroom, looking through the assembled families. A group just behind them stood up, gathering their things to go inside as another family behind the bailiff, with happy tears and big smiles on their faces. She didn’t know when their case would be called but it couldn’t be long now.

“Mommy?” Gregory looked up at her. “When it’s our turn?”

“I don’t know bud. We just got to wait until they call us.” Chase reached over and ruffled Gregory’s hair ignoring the dirty look she shot him. “But we’re going to stay here as long as it takes. Everyone.”

“Even Great Granny?” Leave it to her son to be skeptical at age 6.

“Even her.” Chase answered confidently. “Grandpa Gregory is going to make sure of it.”

“I can hear you, you know.” Tracy protested.

“Yes but they aren’t wrong.” Gregory quipped as he tapped her foot with his cane.

Tracy pushed his cane away and leaned forward towards Brook Lynn and Gregory. “We will all be staying for your ceremony. Even if we are the last ones called. Which we shouldn’t if that judge knows what’s good for him. Because that’s what family does. And you,young man, are a part of our family. From the second we met you. And this? This is just paperwork.”

Before Brook Lynn could say anything, Chase tapped Gregory on the shoulder. “Hey look who’s here.” He pointed to where Kathy was coming around the corner.

“Miss Kathy!” Gregory wiggled himself out of Brook Lynn’s lap and hugged his foster mom’s knees. “I’m being adopted today.”

“I know buddy.” Kathy smiled down at him. “That’s why I’m here. No way I was going to miss this.” She smiled as she walked over to where they were seated. “Sorry I’m late. Looks like I didn’t miss anything.”

“Everyone for the Chase case?”

“Well correction. It looks like I’m just in time.” Kathy laughed as the entire assembled group made their way into the courthouse. Chase carried Gregory and Tony in while Brook Lynn played with her rings. Tracy was right. It really was just paperwork but suddenly she was more nervous than she had ever been. They took their places at the long table in front of the judge with Gregory in between the both of them while the rest of their family sat behind them. She took the phone from Gregory and passed it back to Lois.

Judge Wilcox smiled at them before opening the file and quickly reading it. “Welcome everyone on this most happy day. Ms. Black if you would review the case for the record.”

Brook Lynn vaguely remembered the social worker from one of their many meetings over the past few months. As she ran through the facts of the case, Brook Lynn forced herself to take a deep breath. She felt Chase put his arm out and squeeze her shoulder. It was almost over. In a few minutes, Gregory would officially be their son.

“Thank you Ms. Black.” Judge Wilcox said kindly. “Now Gregory, I just need to ask you a few questions ok?” Seeing Gregory give a small nod, the judge continued. “I hear you are a little shy but I’ll need you to speak up. Can you do that?”

“Yes.”

“Good. Now do you like living with Brook Lynn and Chase?”

“Yes.”

“And they treat you ok?”

“Yes.”

“Thank you for answering my questions. I think I have everything I need to know.” The photographer the state had provided moved to squat directly in front of them. Without turning around Brook Lynn knew Olivia and Lois both had their phones up and recording. “It is my great honor and privilege to say that the petition of adoption of Gregory Edward Wind by Harrison and Brook Lynn Chase is hereby granted. It is hereby also recognized by the state that the child’s name shall now be reflected as Gregory Edward Chase.” The judge banged the gavel and the photographer started clicking her camera. Behind them, the majority of the family cheered. Tracy, Brook Lynn was positive, clapped politely.

Brook Lynn could barely see through the tears that filled her eyes, but if she could she was positive she would see Chase crying as well. They somehow managed to both hug Gregory at the same time. Poor Tony was going to come out squished beyond recognition when this was over. As they broke apart, Gregory looked between the both of them.

“I’m adopted now?”

“Yup. You’re ours forever now.” Chase grinned. “What do you think of that?”

“I like it.”

“Well good.” Brook Lynn smiled. “Cause the party we’ve got at the house wouldn’t be much fun if you didn’t.”

“Can we go to the party now?”

“Try and stop us.”

Chapter Text

Elizabeth came around the corner of the fourth floor, smiling as she spotted the person she was looking for. Some days she really loved her job and this was one of those days.

“Excuse me. I am looking for a Mr. Gregory Chase?”

From his perch on his grandfather’s lap, Gregory looked over at her. “Aunt Lizabeth I’m right here.”

“And how do you know I wasn’t talking about your Grandpa here?” She asked, squeezing the older man’s shoulder with a wink towards him.

“Cause you would have said Professor.” Gregory explained patiently. Some days it was really hard to remember the quiet little boy she had met a year and a half ago. She knew Chase would say Gregory’s new talkative personality was all because of exposure to Violet but she was pretty sure it was just because he had finally found his home.

“Well that is true.” She allowed, smiling at him. “I have been asked to take you to some place very special.” Looking over at the assembled mass of Quartermaines, Chases and other friends in the waiting area, Elizabeth held up her hand. “Everything is fine. No complications at all. Just let me take him back and I’ll return with all the details.”

It was best to just ignore Tracy’s grumble response under her breath. Besides, everyone in this room knew she didn’t mean it. There was exactly one person in the world that Tracy didn’t mind being considered in second place to and it was her great grandson. Taking Gregory’s hand as he jumped down from his grandfather’s lap, Elizabeth led him down the hallway keeping a careful eye on Tony the Turtle trailing behind them in Gregory’s other hand. Normally Tony would just stay at home but today was a special day. Today Tony needed to come.

Stopping outside a door, Elizabeth looked down at him before she pushed it open. “Now you remember what we talked about, right? About how we are going to be quiet and gentle?” Gregory nodded seriously and she suddenly remembered the first time she had met him two floors up from where they were.

Pushing open the door, she smiled at Brook Lynn and Chase, completely unsurprised they hadn’t moved since she had left them. Brook Lynn laid against Chase’s chest and both were staring in amazement at the tiny bundle wrapped in a pink blanket in her arms. Elizabeth remembered that feeling well from when all three of her boys were born. She could only assume it was an even greater feeling of astonishment when you were told this particular situation likely wouldn’t happen for you. “I’ve got someone here who I think you want to see.”

They both looked up and their smiles got wider. “Hey buddy.” Chase said motioning for Gregory to come and climb up into the bed to join them.

Following his father’s instructions, Gregory climbed into the bed trying his best not to make too much noise or be too excited. He settled himself next to Chase and Brook Lynn adjusted the newborn so he could see his new sister better. Gregory traced her cheek with his little finger before looking between his parents. “She’s so soft. And little.”

“All babies are. You were too.” Brook Lynn pointed out before kissing the top of his head.

“How do you know that?” Gregory asked. “You weren’t there?”

“Hey.” Chase said quickly with a smirk. “What have I told you? Mommy knows everything. And she’s always right.”

“I know you’re just saying that because I went through eleven hours of labor but it’s still true.” Brook Lynn smiled. “What do you and Tony think of her?”

Gregory looked his sister over for a long minute before looking over at Tony. “She’s pretty,” he declared. “And Tony thinks he should stay with her when she comes home.”

“Sweetie,” Brook Lynn’s voice wavered with emotion. “Tony is your friend. You’ve been through a lot together.”

“But her room is scarier. And Tony is a good protector.” Gregory explained. “Plus I’m too old to need a stuffed animal. She needs him more than me.”

“See I knew you were going to be the best big brother.” Chase declared as he hugged Gregory tightly. “But just so you know, I think she’ll have no problem sharing Tony if you ever do need him.”

Elizabeth sniffed and wiped away a few tears. “I’ll leave you all alone but I do have a waiting room full of impatient family members who want to know who their newest member is.”

“You mean the Empress was grumbling she didn’t get to come back here first.” Chase guessed.

“Yes.” Elizabeth nodded. “But even today she’s still going to kill you if she hears you calling her that.”

“Please. She’ll change her mind about being Great Granny and demand the kids call her that instead.”

“You’re probably right.” She allowed. “Can I please tell them what this little princess’s name is?”

Brook Lynn and Chase exchanged a look above Gregory’s head. Chase nodded for his wife to go ahead. She took a breath. “Giada. Giada ElizabethChase but we’re probably going to call her Gia.”

Covering her mouth, Elizabeth bit the inside of her cheek to keep from crying. “Elizabeth?”

Nodding, Brook Lynn continued. “You helped me so much after the accident. And the through the adoption. Not to mention keeping me sane through this pregnancy. I owe you so much and this seemed like the best way to say thank you.”

“We’re friends. There’s no need to say thank you.” Elizabeth crossed the room and kissed Brook Lynn’s forehead. “But I am honored.”

“Good. Because Maxie’s already called dibs on being the godmother. And Alli has claimed the title of Fun Aunt. So you get the name.” Chase joked.

“I don’t care. It’s a beautiful name.” Looking down at her namesake, Elizabeth traced her tiny cheek. “Welcome to the world Giada Elizabeth. There’s an entire crazy family out there waiting to meet you. And I know they are going to love you and spoil you rotten.” She looked back to the new happy family of four before looking at Brook Lynn. “I told you one day everything would be worth it. I hope I was right.”

“You were right.” Brook Lynn sighed. “You were completely right.”