Single and Seeking Barson story

Chapter 15

"Noah Mommy's home." Olivia called as she walked into her apartment. It was now Saturday at 5:30PM. Olivia planned on taking Noah to the park this afternoon, but at noon she was called to another crime scene. Lucy was sitting on the sofa with Noah who was smiling and clutching Eddie. "Hello sweet boy, do you feel better?" Olivia said as she walked toward her son.

"Up." Noah said. Olivia picked him up. This was the happiest she'd seen him in weeks, and she sighed in relief. She kissed his check. "That's my big boy."

"He's doing so much better today Liv. Lucy said excitedly. He played, and we sat outside for awhile. He wouldn't go anywhere without Eddie."

Olivia smiled and hugged Noah tightly. I'm so happy to hear that. Thanks for all your help Lucy. I'm sorry it took me so long to get back. I hope I didn't ruin your plans. I can cancel tonight."

"No!" Lucy answered. "It's not a problem, I have another paper to write. I do have plans tomorrow night. I want you to have fun Liv. You don't get out enough."

"Lucy, I get out plenty, too much." Olivia kissed Noah's hair. His hair was damp, and he smelled of soap. Olivia was grateful he already had his bath.

"Not for fun. Come on Liv. I'll help you get ready." Olivia rolled her eyes. She was hoping to get out of tonight's plans, and make new less stressful ones

"I don't have to go Lucy, and you can still work on your paper here."

"Liv please go." She ran to Olivia's bedroom. Olivia followed, and moments later she found Lucy searching her closet.

"Down." Noah said. Olivia placed him down on the carpeted floor. He hugged Eddie.

Lucy gently throw a dress onto Olivia's bed, and Olivia felt her cheeks getting hot. "Lucy I can't wear that?"

"Trust me Liv." Olivia sat down on the bed and held the outfit in her hands. It was a short sleeved, black dress with an asymmetrical neckline.. It stopped just above her knees.

"If I wear a jacket, I can pull it off."

"No, no jacket." Lucy said. "You wear jackets to work."

I like jackets, and it's too short." Olivia protested.

"He'll love it." What if I don't want him to love it Olivia thought, but did not say. "Get changed please, Lucy said sweetly as she picked Noah up from the floor. He laughed, and she carried him out of the room.

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Olivia entered Catch Of The Day, a restaurant which had been in the City since 1950. It had been remodeled in 1999, It was another restaurant Olivia never had the time to try, 1999 was the year Olivia joined Manhattan's SVU, so much had changed since then, and some things were exactly the same. She was still single and still fighting a good fight for victims who learned with her help they were strong, and that the nightmarish experiences they endured did not have to destroy them.

Olivia watched as Dr. Brad Taylor walked to her. She took a deep silent breath. How did Lucy convince me not only to wear this dress, but to wear it without a jacket. Olivia thought to herself. "Olivia, you look incredible!" Dr. Taylor said.

"Thank-you." She almost forgot how tall Dr. Taylor was, he wore a gray suit. "You look nice." Dr. Taylor smiled and held out an arm to her. She took it, and held it very lightly.

"I got us a table." He said as he lead her to it. Olivia let go of his arm, and sat down. Dr. Taylor pushed her chair in and sat across from her. She looked around and was thankful this restaurant was more casual than the last one they eat at. Maybe, she would find something here she could eat. "I hope you like this place Olivia. I know you didn't enjoy the last one. French food isn't for everyone. I should have asked if you liked it first."