Is It A Dream?

Stop Apologizing

"I'm sorry," Linda cried, "I just-"
"Hey, it's okay, baby," Danny sat down next to her and put his hand on her shoulder, "you've been through hell and back, it's okay to cry."
Baez was surprised. Her partner sounded so gentle, so unalarming. She had heard him talk nicely/sympathetically before to families of the victims, but never to his wife. It was so different.
Linda laid her head on Danny's shoulder, wishing he would hold her as she sobbed.
The detective slowly put his arms around his wife, sighing in quiet relief that she didn't flinch. He kissed her head, and whispered to her it was going to be okay.
Neither Linda, Danny, nor Baez knew what had happened. Something struck a chord in Linda, making her feel comfortable in her husband's arms again.
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry."
"Okay, Linda, stop apologizing. It's not your fault." Danny rubbed her back soothingly.
Linda stole a glance at Baez, as if asking if Danny was right.
"You know he's right, Linda. You have to stop thinking it's your fault."
"You didn't ask for any of this," the detective placed his lips on his wife's forehead.
"I just... maybe if I fought more? Or yelled louder. Or-"
"Linda, stop. You did everything you could do." Danny looked her straight in the eye, "and you were assaulted, and I swear to you I'll get that son of a bitch." He pushed her hair behind her ear, "I love you so much."
"I love you, too," she hugged him once more, happy to be back in his arms.
"You know, I could run that place in Jersey. See what it used to be, maybe find some clues," Baez offered.
"Hey, yeah. And let's look through old files," Danny stood next to Baez, "maybe we'll find an MO."
"I'm sure Sarge'll let us work here. He's very understanding."
"Could you get the files?"
"Yeah. Do you guys want anything to eat?" Baez offered, "long as I'm out, I thought I'd grab a bite."
"Linda? Want anything?"
"We have soup."
Danny smiled, she wanted to eat! "We're good, thanks, partner."
"Yes, thank you, Maria. Soon as I get better, we'll treat to to some place nice."
Baez smiled, "you don't have to do that. I'm just helping my two best friends. I'll be back shortly."
"I'll walk you out." Danny offered, letting Baez walk out first. "You know I'm not good at emotion."
"You? No!" Baez smirked.
"Ignoring that remark, I just wanna say.... thanks. Besides Linda, you're the best partner I've had."
Baez smiled, "I am pretty great. But seriously, Linda's like my best friend. I'm happy to help in anyway possible. Do not hesitate to ask."
"Thanks, partner." Danny clapped her shoulder.
"You're welcome. And you do show emotions: anger, annoyance, worry...."
"Go get the files."
"Right." Baez smiled and walked out the door, shaking her head slightly.