~Abuse~

Chapter 175

The team was at Erin and Jay's apartment while Jay was still in trying to get in touch with Ally.

 Hank came over with the cake and glanced at Jay. 

"Happy Birthday, Kiddo!" Hank said with a smile.

 Jay looked up and nodded. "What he means is 'Thank you,' right, Jay?" Erin asked.

 Jay nodded again and grinned. "Thanks!" he said cheerfully. 

Hank nodded in return and began slicing the cake.

Meanwhile, in Hailey and Johnny's apartment, Hailey was texting Jay, masquerading as Ally. Johnny came over and set down the breakfast.

"Thanks, Babe!" Hailey said, beaming.

Johnny nodded back, smiling.

To Jay:
Happy Birthday!
Have a great time!
Luv you! 
Al x 

Hailey sent the message and ate her breakfast.

Jay soon received the message and responded.

"Finally!" Jay exclaimed with a smile.

The team looked up, puzzled.

"What?" Erin inquired.

Jay texted "Ally" back.

"Ally's finally reached out!" Jay said, beaming.

Erin smiled and nodded in agreement.

"See! There was no need to worry!" Erin said cheerfully.

Jay nodded in acknowledgment and enjoyed his cake.

To Ally:
Thank you!
When are you coming back?
J x

Jay set his phone aside and addressed the team.

Hours later, Hailey confessed to Johnny her actions.

Johnny was stunned, struggling to comprehend the situation.

"Hailey! That's murder!" Johnny blurted out.

Hailey nodded, taking a seat.

"I'm aware! That's why you mustn't tell a soul!" Hailey insisted.

Johnny clamped a hand over his mouth, a retch escaping him.

"I feel nauseous..." Johnny murmured.

He dashed to the bathroom, the door banging shut behind him.

"Damn it..." Hailey muttered under her breath.

At the apartment, Erin and Jay were unwinding when Jay received a quirky gift from Ally, courtesy of Hailey.

"Look at that, another surprise!" Erin beamed.

With a grin, Jay unwrapped the gift.

Inside was a calendar, each month adorned with police badges and tiny cop figurines.

"Oh, that's hilariously on point!" Jay chuckled.

Joining in the laughter, Erin snuggled into Jay's shoulder.

"Happy Birthday, darling..." she murmured softly.

Jay turned to Erin, his smile wide.

"Thanks, my love..." He murmured back.

They shared a tender kiss, their smiles speaking volumes.

Jay sighed and leaned against Erin's shoulder.

"Come on. I haven't shown you your surprise yet..." Erin murmured.

Jay smirked and rose to his feet.

The team cringed collectively and took sips of their beers.