Forbidden (Kelly Severide)

Chapter 25

The nursery was a flurry of activity. Ivy and Kelly had spent the entire afternoon preparing the room for their baby. The walls were painted a soft, calming blue, and a crib stood against one wall, surrounded by a collection of plush toys and baby books. They were putting together the final touches, and the room was starting to feel like a place where dreams and hopes for their future would begin.

Kelly was on his knees, assembling the crib, while Ivy was carefully arranging the baby's clothes and blankets in the dresser. They worked in comfortable silence, occasionally exchanging smiles and glances that spoke volumes. The room was filled with a sense of anticipation and love.

"So, tomorrow's the big day," Kelly said, his voice breaking the silence. "My dad's funeral. I know it's going to be tough, but I'm glad you're going to be there with me."

Ivy looked up from where she was folding a tiny onesie. "Of course I'll be there. You need me, and the baby needs to know their grandpa's memory."

Kelly grinned, standing up and walking over to Ivy. "You know, I can't get enough of you. Not just today, but always."

Ivy's cheeks flushed as she looked up at him. "What do you mean?"

He cupped her face in his hands, leaning in for a quick, tender kiss. "I mean, you're amazing. You're strong and beautiful, and you're going to be the best mom."

Ivy melted into the kiss, her heart swelling with love. "I feel the same way about you."

Kelly's hands roamed to her waist, pulling her closer as their kiss deepened. For a few precious moments, they forgot about the world outside, lost in their own bubble of happiness and connection. The weight of Benny's upcoming funeral was heavy, but these moments with Kelly made everything seem a little lighter.

Eventually, they pulled away, both breathless and smiling. "I should get back to work," Kelly said, though his eyes betrayed his reluctance. "But it's hard to focus when you look so beautiful."

Ivy laughed softly. "You're not too bad yourself."

The next morning, as they prepared for the day, Ivy and Kelly were in their uniforms. Ivy had chosen to wear sweatpants instead of the standard uniform pants, a small rebellion that she felt was her right, given the circumstances. She had tried to be practical, comfortable for the day ahead.

Kelly raised an eyebrow as he saw her. "Are you sure about those sweatpants? As your lieutenant, I'm tempted to issue you a violation."

Ivy laughed, walking over to him and wrapping her arms around his neck. "Oh, come on. It's just today. Besides, I thought you'd appreciate me being a little more relaxed."

Kelly chuckled, pulling her in for another kiss. "I'll let it slide this time. But only because I can't get enough of you."

Their kiss was interrupted by a knock on the door. Matt walked in, glancing between them with a knowing smile. "It's time to go. We need to head to the station and then to the funeral."

Ivy and Kelly reluctantly pulled apart, though their hands remained linked. They knew the day ahead would be filled with solemnity and respect, but the love and support they shared made everything just a bit more bearable.

At the firehouse, the team was gathered, preparing for the funeral procession. Benny Severide's passing was marked with the traditional firefighter tribute—a sign of respect and camaraderie that transcended personal differences. The firehouse was abuzz with the somber preparations, as firefighters from across the city came to pay their respects.

As they made their way to the cemetery, Ivy and Kelly walked side by side, their hands still clasped together. The procession was led by a ceremonial firetruck, its lights flashing solemnly. Kelly looked straight ahead, his face set in a stoic expression, but Ivy could see the pain behind his eyes.

The funeral itself was deeply moving, filled with the traditions and rituals of the firefighting community. The fire department honored Benny with a final salute, a tribute to his service and dedication. Ivy stood beside Kelly, offering him silent support as he said his goodbyes.

After the ceremony, as they walked back to their car, Kelly turned to Ivy, his eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you for being here with me. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Ivy squeezed his hand, her voice soft but firm. "You'll never have to find out. I'm here, through everything. And I love you."

Kelly's expression softened, and he pulled her into a gentle embrace. "I love you too. More than you'll ever know."

They drove back to Firehouse 51 in silence, both lost in their own thoughts. The day had been emotionally draining, but they knew that they had each other to lean on. As they returned to the station, ready to face whatever came next, they took solace in the strength of their bond and the love they shared.

It was a day marked by loss and remembrance, but also by the unwavering support and love that defined their relationship. And as they faced the challenges ahead, they knew that they would face them together, with their love and their new family guiding them through.