Shock The System(One Chicago/Law & Order SVU)

A Date With the ADA

Barba and I took a cab to Upper Manhattan that dropped us off at an apartment building.

Lena: Are we going to your place for a date?

Barba: Oh no. Just dropping off you suitcase. We can walk to the restaurant from my apartment.

He led me to an elevator in the building and hit the number 5. Once the elevator stopped, I followed him down the hall to his apartment. Barba took my suitcase and put it in a bedroom. Then he looked at me and smiled.

Barba: I'm glad you took my offer. You've been on my mind since we met.

Lena: I tend to have that affect on people.

We both laughed and he grabbed my hand, holding it gently.

Barba: Let's go. I want to know you outside of a police department.

We walked hand in hand to the elevator and out to the sidewalk. Barba kept looking over at me, smiling when I made eye contact with him. I felt those first date butterflies in my stomach. I hadn't felt like this in 3 years. Since my first date with Matt. Barba led me around the corner to a small restaurant.

Barba: I hope you like Italian. Figured it was a safe bet.

Lena: A good one. I love Italian.

We were seated and Barba held my hand from across the table.

Barba: Tell me all about Chicago.

Lena: It's beautiful. The best city on Earth. My entire family has lived in Chicago for as long as I can remember. My dad has lived in the same house since he and my mom got married and moved in together. They got married after 6 months together. I hope to have a love like theirs one day. I moved back in with my dad recently. After me and my ex broke up.

Barba: And your father is that gruff Sergeant, right? Uh, Hank Voight? 

Lena: Yup. A lot of people say I'm just like him.

Barba leaned forwards, smiling.

Barba: I don't see it. You're too sweet and kind.

Lena: You haven't gotten to know me fully yet. I'm my dad's golden child. While my twin brother is the troublemaker. But Justin is a good guy. He's the best brother.

Barba: I'm an only child. And grew up with a not so kind father. The thought of him still makes my hand clench into a fist and he's been dead over ten years.

We kept talking, getting to know each other as we ordered and ate. Then we took a walk through Manhattan.

Lena: I miss Chicago. Right now, I'd be watching tv with Dad. Or at Molly's with Erin and Jay.

Barba: You mentioned Molly's a lot. Wanna take me there one day?

I smiled at the handsome ADA and nodded.

Lena: You come to Chicago and I'll show you around my city.

He put an arm around my shoulders and pulled me closed, walking us in the direction of his apartment.

Barba: Deal. I'll make sure I take a trip there ASAP.

We went back up the elevator and into the apartment. Barba led me to his room and pointed to the bathroom.

Barba: You can get changed into some comfortable clothes in there. I'll be in the living room.

He went to walk away but stopped and gently pulled me towards him.

Lena: Is something wrong, Rafael?

Barba: Actually, it's the opposite. Tonight was perfect. 

He pulled me against his chest and smiled. One hand ran through my hair as the other let go of my hand and wrapped around my waist.

Barba: Can I?

I bit my lip and nodded. He kissed me softly, pulling me as close as possible as my arms wrapped around his neck, my fingers winding themselves in his hair. We kissed until we were breathless, pulling away and smiling like fools. 

Barba: Go change before I stop being a gentleman.

I nodded and took my bag into the bathroom. I changed from my dress into a baggy Chicago Fire training shirt and a pair of shorts then put my hair in a messy bun as I used my makeup wipes to clean my face. I went out to the living room and saw Barba sitting on the sofa, tie undone and jacket hanging off the side. He looked at me and shook his head, laughing.

Barba: You look beautiful. This is my favorite look of yours so far, baby,

Lena: Ooh, I'm "baby" now? I kinda dig it.

I walked over to him and he pulled me down on to his lap.

Barba: Good. I enjoy your company, Lena.

Lena: I enjoy yours too, Rafael.

He kissed me softly and smiled. I'm growing pretty fond of the Cuban ADA. He moved me on to the couch and got up, going to his room and changing clothes. He came out in just a pair of basketball shorts.

Lena: Do you even play basketball?

Barba: Nope. They are just very comfortable.

He sat back down next to me and put an arm around me as we started watching a hockey game. I felt myself falling asleep and Barba kissed the side of my head softly. I smiled as I drifted off fully. I think I might like Rafael.