Part One; 24 Hours

Elliot’s head swam with the remnants of last night victory part. The collaboration between the SWAT team and the SVU had worked wonderfully and had finally paid off months later. He knew oddly that Olivia would miss the officer she had worked close with for the past two months, Letty Toretto. He had thought she was a brilliant cop but more importantly a brilliant shot when Elliot remembered the shot she had made to disable one of the escape cars.

Nodding a greeting to Fin as he passed, Elliot moved to the coffee table. He tried hard not to look at the empty tables across the room that still held the boxes of files that he and the others on the bust team had shifted through.

Behind, Elliot he listened to Munch talk on the phone, no doubt to Tory who was away in Canada with Kat. Even the voice of Munch gave him a slight rumble of a headache. Part of him prayed for a silent day.

“Special Victim’s Unit?”

“Yeah,” Elliot answered turning. He looked over at the bike messenger who stood warily in the door way. “Detective Elliot Stabler, can I help you?”

The messenger nodded and waited till Elliot approached before thrusting out the clipboard. “Need a signature for a package.” Watching Elliot sign the paper, the messenger smiled. “Thanks for using Speedy Messenger.” He added before handing him the package.

Grumbling a thanks, Elliot turned and opened the envelope with one hand while he raised the coffee cup he had to drink from in the other. He froze however seeing the pictures and dropping the coffee cup that shattered on the floor.

~~

“How do we know these are real?” Cragen asked as he examined the pictures of Olivia gagged and bound. He glanced down at the note, which simple read 24 hours. Naturally he knew that all ransom notes were meant to give demands. He knew nothing of what 24 hours meant, if it would be 24 hours when they received the list of demands or 24 hours to when Olivia Benson would be killed.

“I don’t know.” Elliot replied after finding his voice.

Cragen looked at Elliot and then at the others. “Get over to Benson’s place. See if she’s there. Take a uniform with you. I don’t want any antics, be careful.”

Watching them nod, he glanced back down at the pictures as they left. He had never formed a worse case scenario for when one of his detectives would be kidnapped or become the prey for some stalker.

~~

Reaching Benson’s place, Elliot looked at Fin and Munch as the got out of the cars. “Be careful.” He repeated.

“Yeah man.” Fin answered. Moving towards the building, Fin placed a gloved hand on the door and felt it give way, the lock broken. Unlocking his gun, Fin motioned for Elliot and Munch to be silent before the three entered the house.  

The place was trashed. Book shelves were overturned everything disorganized. But more importantly to Elliot he knew Olivia was gone.

Part Two; 23 Hours

Cragen had arrived along with several other units and almost every cop in the precinct. Barely noticing them, Elliot felt sick to his stomach as he went over the facts in his head; Olivia was missing and he had 24 hours. Glancing at his watch, Elliot corrected himself; 23 hours. 

“We set up perimeter check points. 40 mile radius,” One of the chief’s shouted over the noise of the investigations going on all around them. “This is assuming that they are still in New York. All information will be routed through the 16^th’s Special Victims Unit. This is a priority case people. Get everything on it." 

“Elliot.”

Glancing up, Elliot looked at Cragen. “We’ll find her,” He promised.

“I know,” Elliot replied. He stood and stuffed his hands into his pockets before nodding. “I’m going to canvas the area see if anyone has heard anything.”

“Fin and Munch are doing that,” Cragen replied. “Why don’t you see if maybe you can get a whole of the FBI—“

“Captain.”

“You’re involved in this one, Elliot.” Cragen interrupted. “You’re too close to it.”

“So are Fin and Munch.” Elliot replied sharply. Locking eyes with Cragen, Elliot knew that this was wasting time…precious time.  Turning he looked at the building again, before moving to his car. “I’m on the radio.” He muttered before getting in.

Not waiting for Cragen to come after him, Elliot pulled away and drove around the corner. He knew this had to be some kind of payback for the bust. However he couldn’t tell who would want to be doing this kind of pay back. Driving around the corner, Elliot stopped in a parking lot.

There was only one who would know anything about the Organized Crime and Elliot dreaded calling him. Since working with Charlie Spencer, Elliot learned about disliking Change. Charlie had been his partner before moving to Special Victims and when Elliot had told him of the move, Charlie had felt it was like a personal blow. Temptation had nearly made Elliot look into Charlie’s file but he decided to be the better one and get over it.

Now he hoped Charlie was the same was. Dialing the operator, he listened to it ring. “I need a number for a Charles Spencer.” He paused and listened to the Operator. “Charlie Spencer? Yeah that’s him.” Scribbling the number, Elliot hung up and the swiftly dialed the number. Finding the number to be only a pager, Elliot left his number before hanging up and waiting to see if Charlie would call back. If not, Elliot would need a plan B.

~~

Under the SWAT gear, Charlie Spencer felt his pager vibrate. “Damn it,” He grumbled. Though the raid was over, Charlie’s undercover status was still important to protect. It was the only thing protecting him in the life of organized crime.

Entering the SWAT van, Charlie removed the ski mask, he wore letting his hair stick in any direction due to the static. Reaching for his pager, Charlie nearly missed the folding chair at the sight of the number.

Dialing Elliot’s cell phone, Charlie heard it ring three times before hearing Elliot pick up. “Stabler." 

“Hell froze over, I see.” Charlie muttered. “Or its really chilly for Elliot Stabler to be calling.”

Biting back a comeback, Elliot didn’t understand Charlie’s dislike for his moving on any more then why Elliot disliked the fact that Charlie was unhappy with him. “I need your help.”

“Say what, you’re breaking up.” Charlie commented.

“I need your help on a case.” Elliot stated, “Missing Person.”

On his side, Charlie propped up his feet on the table before answering. “I work Organized Crime now, not Missing Persons.”

Elliot ignored Charlie’s comments completely. “Her name is Olivia Benson.”

The name clicked in Charlie’s mind instantly. “Your partner,” He said with some disgust.

“Yeah,” Elliot replied, “We were working on a join case with SWAT on a sex Ring. The case closed yesterday. Now—“

“Missing,” Charlie finished. Glancing at the camera’s Charlie saw the press was gone allowing him to leave the van. “The Stevenof case. You turned a few heads.”

“Like?”

“None that would kidnap a cop,” Charlie replied. “I’ve got a debrief.” There was no call me later, just a click that left Elliot hanging dry.

Swallowing, Elliot started the car again before driving off. If Charlie wouldn’t listen or help Elliot would do it on his own.

Part Three; 22 Hours

Entering the squad house, Elliot knew he’d have plenty of files to read and not enough time. Removing his coat, Elliot looked at the take out bags and the jean coat over one of the boxes.

“Just get back to me when you can all right sweetheart? Yeah, thanks.” Charlie’s eyes glanced at Elliot for only a second as he brushed passed him with a glass of water. “Egg McMuffins all around,” He told Elliot, “The sausage is mine and if the 3-4 calls I’m not here.”

A faint smile came over Elliot’s face. “Thanks.”

“What ever.” Charlie answered. Sitting, Charlie barely registered Elliot as he sat across from him.

Opening the bag, Elliot saw it was filled with breakfast sandwiches. “Always over kill." 

Charlie grunted something as he flipped open a file. He couldn’t think of a reason why he was there. Elliot had been his partner years ago. But then Elliot had decided to join the Special Victims—Charlie couldn’t forgive him for that.

Taking one of the sandwiches, Elliot took a file and began reading. It was like reading ancient history in slow motion, every part was now scanned with a fine tooth comb.

“It was Professor Plumb.” 

The sultry voice nearly brought Elliot to his knees. “Glancing up he looked at Letty dressed in a pair of baggy sweats and an oversized hoodie. “Officer Toretto.”

“Detective Stabler,” Letty greeted, “You must be Detective Spencer, you said a hostage—“

“Breakfast is there. Give me a quick version of the Stevenof case.” Charlie interrupted not caring what Letty was saying. In fact, he didn’t even look up from the file. “Preferable before you eat.”

Sighing, Letty took the empty seat next to Elliot. “Roman Stevenof was bringing in Russian girls and selling them in the Sex trade." 

Charlie held up his hand but never let his eyes leave the file he was reading. “Alexander Stevenof is the largest Russian mob boss in New York.”

“Relation?”

Finally looking up, Charlie answered Elliot’s question, “Uncle. Loving of the family, threatened to kill me if I ever interfere with the family again.”

Elliot glanced up. “You and making friends. Let’s go talk to him.”

“Minor Technicality.” Charlie stated not standing. “Stevenof rules with an iron fist.” Seeing Elliot’s blank expression. “From prison.”

“So?” Letty asked.

Charlie didn’t answer as several new files were placed on the table. “All working girl locations in the area," The Spanish accented person said, “You owe me…”

“There’s breakfast.”

“More then McDonalds, Spencer.”

Elliot glanced at the woman now in front of him. His eyes traveled up the legs and then the short leather skirt and small tanktop. “Elliot Stabler, can we help you?” He asked confused.

“Selena Ramiez.” Selena told him. “Detective Ramiez, I work vice till playboy of the mob families called me.”

“Har-Har.” Charlie stated reaching in and handing her the breakfast burritos. “Special delivery.”

“And the sauce?”

The sauce flew at her as Charlie went back to his file. “Gracias.” She told him before moving to sit next to him. “File.” She took the one Charlie handed her before pulling the black pen from her hair allowing her dark locks to tumble down her back. A legal pad appeared from her bag, which also Elliot could tell included a pair of army pants of some kind and a black shirt. No doubt for when she was off duty.

The others arrived an hour later to find several breakfast sandwiches left and a nearly empty box of files. “Who the hell is this?” Cragen shouted. His eyes drifted to Selena who now sat on Elliot’s desk tossing back and forth a stress ball. “Officer Toretto.” He greeted seeing Letty emerge from the back in a white tank top with her hoodie wrapped around her waist.

“Captain Cragen,” She greeted. “Detectives Selena Ramiez and Charlie Spencer.”

“Stevenof is some how connected,” Charlie commented to Elliot. “You hurt the family they retaliate.”

“But you said no one would hit a cop.”

“I lied.”

“Excuse me!” Cragen demanded at Charlie, Selena and Elliot. “Detective Spencer, why are you here?”

Charlie shrugged. “I work Organized crime. Pity you didn’t contact us about the case. We could have saved a week or so.”

“Same question, Detective Ramiez.”

“I work vice.” Selena replied.

Munch snorted. “Really.”

Selena glared at Munch crossing her scarred arms. “I brought all the logs of the working girl CIs that I have in that area of town. Some of them said they saw a black sedan circling Detective Benson’s complex.” Selena told him. “Twenty minutes later, several got out and came back out with a person. They couldn’t tell from the distance if it was a male or female or get plates, but they did know the person had a hood over their head.”

“Then she’s alive?” Fin stated. “Good news.”

“If it is Stevenof, then the family isn’t going to keep her that way for long. What demands did you get?” Charlie asked drawing the attention back to him.

“24 hours,” Cragen replied.

“Fascinating.”

Part Four; 21 Hours

The file hit the table with a loud slap as Charlie closed his eyes and groaned. “No more typed text, can’t take it.” He groaned as he stood and looked at the dry erase board in filled with notes. “Stevenof,” He commented placing his finger on one of the pictures. “Stevenof, Stevenof, Stevenof.” 

“Why aren’t we talking to his old man again?” Fin asked. 

“Because A. Stevenof will see us coming into prison as a dishonor.” Charlie replied. “And he’ll have fun playing ring a round the rosy with your heads.” 

Munch glanced at Selena as the woman came out of the bathroom. “Feel better?” He asked. 

“Much, Munch.” She stated flicking her hair over her shoulder at him. “Where did they dig up that fossil?” 

“I think Baltimore.” Letty commented as she watched, Selena pull her black tee shirt’s sleeve over her shoulder and noticed it as it promptly slid back down again. “Barry's shirt?” 

“One of his footballers.” Selena clarified. “Charlie didn’t give me exactly enough time to piece a proper wardrobe.”  

“I needed the best sweetheart.” Charlie stated joining the group. “Anything new with the CIs.” 

“My girl on the south side commented on seeing a black sedan leaving a warehouse there.” Selena paused running a hand through her hair, “She couldn’t tell if it was our guys or what. When she attempted to get closer when they were returning, they threw money at her—I think 200—and ordered her to leave.” 

“We go to South side,” Elliot replied. 

Selena looked at Elliot and shook her head, “I don’t think so. When she walked by again on purpose, she saw the Sedan leaving again. This time with men and guns. I told her to move away.” 

“A working girl knows the rules of the streets.” 

Turning, Selena looked at Cragen. “Agreed but she is only twenty.”

Cragen went to answer as Alex came in. “You run grand central station here, Capt.” Charlie muttered before taking Selena’s stress ball. Tossing it up in the air, he watched Elliot eying him before sliding the ball down his shoulders to be caught in his other hand.  

“Didn’t know you could that.” Elliot stated before watching Alex speak with Cragen privately. 

“There are a lot of things you don’t know about me.” Charlie stated with a half ass grin.  

“All right we’ve got the demands.” 

Charlie turned to look at Alex and Cragen. “Where are they?” He asked after a minute. 

“I just got this from 34 News.” Alex stated. “They screen everything that they get and this raised red flags.” She finished holding up a video tape. “I tried to stop them from showing it but at the bottom of the hour they will show it.” 

“So much for a low profile case.” Fin commented as Cragen put in the tape.

The waiting for it play was unbearable. The tape however soon flicked on to reveal Olivia tied to a chair. “This tape is for my colleagues at the New York Special Victims unit.” She stated after a minute before forcefully being made to look at the camera. “You are to release Roman Stevenof and the names of those that broke trust with him in 21 hours or Detective Olivia Benson will be killed and dumped in the River, like a traitor.”

Charlie’s eyes darkened as he glanced at Elliot who seemed riveted to the screen. Smacking Elliot on the arm, Charlie cocked his head. “Feel like dishonoring a mob boss?”

Part Five; 20 hours

“And the reason for this visit?” The Russian Mom boss sat comfortably behind the table in the interview room. He had barely registered Elliot and was fixated on Charlie. Charlie was the only one of the two detectives that knew the reason of that seemingly deep hatred and Elliot wasn't about to ask why. “Last time you were here, Charlie Spencer, you swore not to return.”

Charlie gave a cocky smile. “How’s Roman? Liking his cell mate in Gen Pop?”

The restraints kept Alexander Stevenof from lunging across the table to strangle Charlie. Cursing at Charlie in Russian, Stevenof grabbed Charlie by the wrist with enough force for Elliot to wince. “Understand?”

“Yeah, What ever.” Charlie answered in perfect Russian and seemingly unnerved by the events.

“You still remember my tongue.” Stevenof stated releasing Charlie’s wrist. “He will betray you,” Stevenof told Elliot, “Do not trust him.”

Charlie ignored the desire to rub his wrist even as painful as it was. “You give the order to grab a cop?”

Stevenof shrugged. “You give permission to grab my nephew?”

“He was selling girls for rape.”

The mob boss glared at Elliot for a split second before turning away; disgusted. “Better then drugs,” Stevenof replied. “Girls are a respectable business.” 

Elliot’s face flushed with anger.” They were thirteen,” He hissed at Stevenof. 

“Your partner is disrespectful. Coming into my house, saying my nephew is wrong!” Stevenof shouted at Charlie.

“First,” Charlie replied, “He’s not my partner. Second, not your house.” He glanced up from the hangnail he had been picking at. “Did you order the kidnapping of Detective Benson?”

“Never heard of ‘im.” Stevenof retorted. “And I got nothing else to say.”

Waiting for Stevenof to leave, Charlie stood that minute Stevenof had left the room. “Hey, back there, what did he say?” Elliot asked indicating the time both had spoken in Russian.

“That he’d kill me.” Charlie replied bluntly, “Come on let’s keep it in the family.”

Part Six; 19 Hours 

Selena Ramiez paced when she read the file. Letty had left to practice with her team for three hours. Munch discovered that he liked Letty, who only claimed a desk as a chair to the Spanish cop, pacing. “Chairs work.” He grumbled lowering his file. 

“Si,” Selena answered. “But I’ve been sitting at least for five hours,” Closing the file, Selena looked at Munch with a sigh before sauntering to sit in the chair next to his desk. “What is your problem?” 

Munch closed his file. “You friend, Charlie Spencer, he thinks Vice will help find Olivia Benson.” 

“My girls have found more then Charlie has through the Godfather route.”  

“But we are always a minute behind.” Fin pointed out. 

Selena went to answer but was interrupted by her cell phone. Standing, she moved away before taking the call. Part of her knew Munch and Fin would try to overhear the whole conversation. It was mainly for that reason that she spoke to her contact in Spanish. 

“Cute,” Fin commented as Selena took her coat from the table she had tossed it on when she had first arrived. “You bailing?” 

“With you two no less.” Selena pointed out. “One of my girls found something.” Moving to the door, Selena only had to wait for two minutes before Munch and Fin joined her. 

~~ 

Selena had been more interested in making sure she knew where they were instead of talking. “Turn here.”  

The command startled Fin. Obeying due to his want to find Olivia, he saw the young girl waiting at the corner. “That her?” 

“Marisol, yes.” Selena replied as Fin stopped the car. “Stay here will you boys?” 

“Oh yes Master,” Munch muttered sarcastically. 

Getting out of the car, Selena fixed her trench coat as she walked to the girl. Both of the male detectives watched as the girl, no more then nineteen, gave Selena a tight hug. The hug lasted longer then expected as Selena pocketed a sheet of paper and then the two walked towards the car. “Marisol, this is Detectives Munch and Tutuola. They are okay.” 

“Hey,” Marisol greeted.

Getting a nod for a greeting, Marisol began directing them to the location.

Part Seven; 18 Hours 

“It was right around this corner,” Marisol told Fin before returning to her conversation with Munch. “JFK is so not in an iceberg, he’s frozen under the pentagon.” 

Munch smiled, “So the large tax rises?” 

“Can’t use it all on a toaster.” 

Fin and Selena cringed. “Where is it, Chica?” Selena asked. Not once had she heard Marisol argue about where JFK was. But then again Selena personally didn’t care. 

Marisol’s eyes glanced around her. “Oh,” She pointed to the one in front of them. “That one.” 

Driving closer, Fin stopped about two warehouses away. “Marisol.” 

“I know, I know stay in the car.” 

“Good girl,” Selena told her. Getting out, Selena stepped up beside Munch and Fin. “This place should be clean, but I suggest back up.” 

“Later,” Fin commented. He knew it would be easy to contact Letty—probably the reason why Charlie had chosen her. “Let’s go.”

Entering the warehouse, the three soon found it empty. Reaching a back room, Munch lowered his gun realizing where he was. “Well we know where the tape is from.” Munch commented as the other two entered the room from which they both recognized as the room from the tape.

Part Eight; 17 hours 

Charlie stopped the car outside of the Stevenof mansion. “Don’t speak if you don’t have too.” He warned Elliot. “Old pops Stevenof has probably sent word a head.” 

“Great, you know these guys?” 

A stare was the only answer Elliot got for a long time. “I busted the old pops.” 

Elliot looked after Charlie as the other man got out and moved to the door. Following, Elliot glanced at Charlie.  

The door opened a minute after Charlie had rang the bell to reveal Viktor Stevenof, the family’s lawyer. “You son of a b—“ he stopped seeing Elliot. If anything when dealing with the Stevenof family had made Charlie smarter then the other cops in the field, it was to bring some one with you when dealing with people that wanted to kill you. “Pops all ready called.” 

“Where’s Tonio?” Charlie asked unphazed. “Gotta talk to him.” 

“He ain’t gotta talk to you.” Viktor replied. Moving aside, Viktor eyed Elliot as the two cops entered. “Another rat.” 

“HEY TONIO!” 

Charlie’s shout brought Viktor back to reality. “He ain’t going to speak with you!” 

"Tony!” 

“I hate that name A—hole.” 

Turning, Charlie looked at Tony. “You running things for Pops?” 

“What’s it to you Spencer?” 

Shrugging, Charlie looked at Elliot. “Where’s Detective Benson?” 

“Who?” 

“Olivia Benson,” Elliot replied. 

Tonio turned to face Elliot. “You stay outta this.” He snapped, “Bad enough I got this rat here, I got you here too.” 

“Heat Breaking.” Elliot snapped, “Where is she?’ 

A shrug came from Tonio. “Dunno,” He paused. “Oh the chick who wants my cuz released.” 

“Yeah her,” Charlie retorted, “Great we got the smart one.” 

Forced laughter came from all but Tonio and Charlie. They stared at each other; daring each other. “I’ll talk to Charlie Alone.” 

Stopping Elliot from saying anything Charlie nodded. “All right.” 

Leading the way back to the office, Tonio was silent as he and Charlie entered. Shutting the door, Tonio turned and punched Charlie across the face. “That’s for my old man!” 

Falling back, Charlie landed against the desk. Blood fell from his broken lip. “You hit like a girl.” The knee sent Charlie to the floor. “Like your sister,” He was rewarded with a swift kick to the ribs. “How is Anna anyways?” Tonio’s only come back was a right hook to the head. 

Backing away, Tonio smiled at the man in front of him. The switch blade in his hands flicked open as Tonio approached. “This is for me.” 

Charlie’s fist connected with Tonio’s face. “Now that’s a punch.” He grunted. Standing Charlie wiped his blood away from his mouth. “I’ll see you later Tony.” 

Tonio laughed. “No one mourns for the wicked, Charlie. Remember that.” 

“Your family says a lot of threats. You ever going to do anything to back it up?” Leaving with that said Charlie left the house and joined Elliot at the car. “You’re driving.” 

Catching the keys, Elliot saw the way Charlie was keeping his face covered. “You okay?” 

“Just drive.” Charlie commented before he got in. Across from him, Elliot got in. Unable to get his face covered quickly enough Charlie saw Elliot staring at him. “Form of conversation.” 

“Let’s get you to the hospital.”

“I’m fine!” 

“Yeah that’s what doctors decide.”

Part Nine; 16 hours 

Selena, Fin and Munch met the rest of the team at the Hospital after receiving word from Cragen about Charlie’s encounter with the Stevenof family. Cragen had already came and gone after discovering that Charlie needed X-Rays (for his bruised ribs) and at least four stitches for his split eyebrow.  

“You look like crap playboy.” Selena commented as she entered the room to see Charlie sitting on the examine table with out a shirt. “Muscular and hot, but crap playboy.” 

“Oh thanks Sweetheart.” Charlie grunted as he got off the table and examined the bruise on his side. “What you find at the warehouse.” 

“Didn’t Cragen tell you?” Selena asked as Elliot left to compare notes with Fin and Munch.

“To busy tearing me a new one.” Charlie stated taking the shirt Selena handed him.  

“It was were the tape was made.” Selena informed him. “I told Letty to try and track down the ownership of it. She said she’d call us when she had something.” 

A hiss was heard as Charlie slipped the shirt back over his head. “Nice job.” He stated. “Anything else?” 

“How’s Viktor Stevenof.” 

“The family pit bull?” Charlie asked. “Terrifying as always.” He chuckled and watched Selena leave with a smile.  

Selena turned and looked at Munch, Fin and Elliot discussing the incident at the Stevenof case. “He’s ready to head back out.” 

“He’s not heading back out.” Elliot stated to Selena. “He’s reckless—“ 

“And good at his job for some one that never had something stable to believe in.” 

Elliot shook his head, “He gave you that crap about my leaving him didn’t he.” 

Selena hung her head. “He didn’t tell you then.” She sighed. “He’s a good cop for having no family to believe in.” Seeing Elliot’s confused face, Selena continued. “Charlie was raised in foster families since he was seven. His mother had done crack and was busted for selling it on the streets. Charlie’s little sister and him were split up and he hasn’t heard from her since.” 

“He has a sister?” 

“She was taken from foster care and adopted. He’s been debating about trying to find her but he doesn’t think he’d be a good older brother to her. Every family he’s been in has had problems with him.” Selena answered. “It was a total of twelve I think before he reached the age of 16 and emancipated himself.” 

Silence came over Elliot as he glanced back at Fin and Munch. “He didn’t tell me this.” 

“He doesn’t tell many.” 

“You?” 

Selena shrugged. “We worked together on the Stevenof case when he brought down Alexander Stevenof. I played date to the parties for him more then once. We grew close in the car rides to and from it.” She swallowed. “I think with you he felt like his past didn’t matter…and then you left.” 

“Hey!” Charlie called out. “Who’s ready to do bust a mob family for lying?” 

“Thanks.” Elliot told Selena after a minute. “We got notes to compare first. Then I say down with the Stevenof clan.” 

Charlie turned to look at Elliot. “About time we agree on something.” 

“You okay?” Elliot asked as Charlie fixed his jean jacket. 

A familiar cocky smile covered Charlie’s face. It was a smile that Elliot had at one time thought was his natural smile but now he knew that it was the only thing that Charlie hid behind. “I’m always okay.” He told Elliot before clasping his hands together. “I’m better then okay.”

Part Ten; 15 hours 

Letty barely shifted as she looked at Roman Stevenof and his brother. “We’ve got issues here Roman.” 

“Yeah, you shot out the tires of my Porsche.” 

“Tear.” 

Viktor glared at the cop as she sat in front of them. “You own more hotels and houses on Park Place and Boardwalk then you let on.” Letty commented. “You see we found the studio. Now the only thing working for you is if you tell me where Olivia Benson is.” 

“What will you give us?” 

“I ain’t bargaining with this bitch.” Roman shouted. “I don’t care if any one was taken. I’m getting out of her with out working with some pig.” 

Letty’s eyes darkened. “That’s Miss Pig to you scumbag.” She paused. “You kiss your mother with that mouth?” 

“You even know yours.” 

“At least my father can come and go in the country without breaking the law.” Letty commented. “Yours ran to protect himself from being labeled a rat.” The minute the word rat was out of her mouth, Roman’s saliva ran down her left tear duct. “Well, guess that’s my answer.” 

“We can still make a deal.”

“Yeah, we can.” Letty commented. “How’s this one. Tell me where Detective Benson is and you can have a cell without a white sheet. Don’t tell me and it’s one with a white sheet. It expires in a minute.” Getting no answer, Letty nodded. “I’ve got some friends in Sing-Sing; I’ll let em know a white sheet cell mate.” Turning she left the interrogation room, slamming the door as she did.

Part Eleven; 14 hours 

Elliot didn’t say anything as he and Charlie stopped at the pharmacy in the Hospital and got his prescription for painkillers. Instead, he waited till they were in the parking garage heading towards Charlie’s Impala. “What’s your sister’s name?” 

“Alison Grace-“ Charlie glanced at Elliot. “How did you—Selena?” 

“Yeah, you never told me about her.” Elliot told him.

“What’s to know.” 

“You two were split up in Foster care.” 

Charlie groaned as they reached the car. “I knew I shouldn’t have spilled my heart out to her!” He mumbled. “Now everyone is playing Doctor Phil.” 

Elliot didn’t say anything as they got in. “You haven’t tried to look for her.” 

“Even as a cop, there are certain laws that you can’t break. Searching through sealed files is one of them.” Charlie stated. “And besides she’s better off not knowing that I’m still around. Big brother that works with Wise guys? Not good Thanksgiving talk.” 

“Charlie,” Elliot sighed. “She has a right to know just as much as you do.” 

“Can we not talk about it?” Charlie shot back at Elliot angrily. “What I do with my life is my business.” 

“When it’s reckless and involving one of the people I work with it’s my business as well!” Elliot snapped at him.  

Charlie glanced at Elliot for only a minute before he used a pair of black sunglasses to cover the bruise all ready forming on his face. “I’ll try to keep it away from here next time.” 

“I’m still your friend.” 

“I don’t need any friends.”

Part Twelve; 13 Hours 

The pizza ordered was barely touched, even by Charlie who needed to take his painkillers with food. Elliot had tried to get him to eat but Charlie had insisted the pain added reason for him to work harder. 

Selena had left to drive Marisol back to her mothers. Munch had promised to call Marisol out of the odd connection the two had made due to the conspiracies. At least now, Tory didn’t have to listen to them. 

“What do we know so far?” Charlie grunted as he got up to the board. He had hidden low until Cragen had left to meet with the Chief of Detectives. His ribs hurt and the ice pack for the bruise on his face did nothing to help. Charlie was now determined to work through the pain though every move he did showed how much he hurt. 

Letty shifted as she sat on the table. “Everything is connected to the Stevenof family.” She told them. “Strongly…we just have to find the loose string.” 

“It’s not Tonio Stevenof,” Selena commented. “Or Alexander Stevenof…” 

“Roman’s out of the running,” Letty added, “Vikky boy though, he wanted to make a deal.” 

“We not in a deal making mood.” Fin grumbled as his phone rang. “Tutuola.”

“Fin.” 

Nearly dropping the phone, Fin snapped his fingers indicating that it was Olivia. Placing the call on speakerphone, so all could hear, Fin glanced at Cragen as he entered. “Hey girl, where you at?” 

“Wish I could tell you.” Olivia stated loosely on her side. “Tell Detective Spencer his skills weren’t appreciated.” 

Charlie glanced at Elliot with a raised eyebrow. “Thanks,” Charlie called over to phone. 

“They want to know why Roman Stevenof is being questioned by a SWAT cop.” Olivia continued after a minute.  

Letty shrugged but didn’t answer. 

“The next time you talk to Roman Stevenof they say he better be being released.” 

Cragen tossed his coat onto a chair before speaking. “They should know that we don’t negotiate.” He stated, seeing one of the computer guys tell him to lengthen the phone call. “Roman Stevenof was selling girls on the street to rapists and molesters.” 

“Girls are an honest trade.” Olivia’s voice strained as she said that. In her voice, Elliot could tell she didn’t want to say that any more then read it. 

“How are you doing?” 

“I’m fine.” Olivia answered to Elliot. “They wanted me to tell you that you have 13…now 12 hours left.” 

A click was heard before dial tone rang out. “Where did the trace take you?” 

“South side Manhattan.” One of the computer guys told Cragen. “The call was too short for us to really get the address.” 

“Narrow it down,” Cragen ordered the group. “See if the Stevenof family has anything in that neck of the woods.” 

Elliot nodded along with the others, before watching Charlie leave. Something told him that Charlie didn’t agree with the order Cragen gave as he followed to catch up with Charlie at the stairs.

Part Thirteen; 12 Hours 

“Where are you going?” Elliot called jogging to catch up with Charlie.

 Charlie turned to look at Elliot. “I don’t do file work.” 

Elliot’s eyes darkened. “So you’re just going to patrol the streets of Manhattan?” He snapped. “That’s my partner’s life you’re playing with!” 

“And I was your partner!” Charlie fired back. “I don’t bail out on people and I don’t do file work.” 

“You’re a type that receives death threats with breakfast.” Elliot retorted.  

“And you forgot dinner time!” Charlie corrected. 

“I was right, you are reckless.” Elliot growled. “Then go, walking away is what your good at.” 

Falling silent, Charlie looked at Elliot. “You were the one that walked away from me.” Charlie stated. “I’m just returning the favor.” Leaving Elliot, Charlie fished his car keys before getting into the Impala and driving away from the station house. He knew Elliot wouldn’t have listened to him, after all Charlie was a do instead of research kind of guy.

Part Fourteen; 11 hours 

Barely registering Elliot and Charlie leaving, Selena sat across from Munch as she skimmed files looking for anything she had missed. “Ramiez.” 

Munch glanced at Selena as she stood swiftly and collected her coat. Raising an eyebrow, Selena tossed him her car keys. “Where to?” 

“Ramona…Ramona!” Selena snapped into the phone. “I don’t know. She usually haunts North and Broadway.” She told Munch. “Care to help me find her?” 

“What about?” 

“Afraid to be alone with me?” Selena asked Munch with a raised eyebrow. “I’ll take Officer Toretto with me if you’re scared to travel with a woman.” 

“Unless she’s Marilyn Monroe, I’m not afraid to travel with any woman.”  

“Won’t ask.” 

“Won’t tell,” Munch replied grabbing his fedora and putting it on. Leaving with Selena, he walked beside her as Selena fixed her leather trench coat. “Back there, Letty said Barry. Who’s that?” 

A smile came across Selena’s face. “My Fiancé.” She told him. “He plays Rugby mostly but he’s also studying to be a lawyer.” 

“To get those you bust back on the street.” 

Shaking her head, Selena slipped her sunglasses on. “No, to keep them in jail. He wants to work in the Assistant District Attorneys Office.” 

Munch made an oh face as they headed towards the car. “He doesn’t mind you working vice.” 

“Bar? He doesn’t like the clothes that much.” She told him, “Or the contacts that I bring home at times.” 

Munch glanced at her to continue.  

Selena caught his glance. “Truth be told Barry is a soft hearted fool. He’d rather me bring home two under age girls instead of letting them sleep on the streets.” She glanced at Munch. “Who was the girl in the picture? Niece?” 

“Daughter.”  

Selena made an oh face as they climbed into the car. “Really. Didn’t picture you for marriage.” 

“Tory is from my second wife.” Munch told her. “The reason why I shall never return to Baltimore.” 

“She seems like a nice girl.” 

A snort came from Munch. “Try Hellion.” 

“Does she know how to take care of herself.” 

“Yeap,” Munch replied.  

Selena went silent as they drove. “You love her like nothing else though.” 

Not answering, Munch simply smiled as they drove in silence. “North and Broadway?” 

“Yeap.” 

Silence again took over before Munch looked at Selena. “Those cuts on your arms.” 

“Bad memories.” Selena replied. “I thought it would help me escape from my family issues. I was wrong. At the age of 13 I think I’m allowed Mistakes.” 

Munch nodded before a question popped into his head. “How does anyone know if their kid is, you know?” 

“Doing this kind of mistakes.” Selena asked. “Blood on clothing, Baggy shirts.” 

“Any kind.” 

Selena was silent. Slowly one by one the pieces went together in her head. “You’re talking about Tory? Why what do you think she’s into?” 

Munch stopped from saying everything. He didn’t know anything about what Tory did when she went out. Of course, there were the times with Kat and Drew, but Munch didn’t know what she did when she wasn’t with them (if there were any times). He had nearly died when Tory had become involved with Trip, a once car thief and then there had been Gary, a kid from the Karate classes that had numerous rings in his face.  

“You talk to her.” Selena stated as if Munch had said something. “She seemed from the photo to be a smart girl. Couldn’t have anything wrong with her with a good head on her shoulders.” 

“The motorcycle…you haven’t seen the motorcycle.” 

“Oh, limited walking days.” 

Next to her, Munch nearly laughed. He had thought the same when Tory had walked in to the stationhouse with that helmet under her arm. Now he was still cautious of the bike that was in the parking lot of the apartments that they lived in. Turning on North and Broadway, Munch looked around him. “So where’s your girl?” 

“He’s some where.” 

Eyes wide under his glasses, Munch was at a loss for words. 

“He’s a Mister Sister. One the girls on the streets love. Kind of crazy but a good CI.” 

“Crazy like Marisol.” 

“No, Crazy.” 

Munch agreed to leave it at that as they continued to drive slowly looking for Ramona. Nearly finishing the street, Selena thankfully pointed her out. Munch couldn’t have told that the person that he was looking at was truly a guy. “Want me to wait?” 

“Yeah, I’ll make it quick.” 

Stopping the car, Munch watched as Selena got out and walked over to Ramona. The conversation got heated as Selena’s use of Spanish got louder and more frequent. Finally hearing Selena curse in a string of Spanish, Munch watched as the other detective moved back to the car and got in. “And?” 

A string of curses came from Selena in Spanish along with a hand wave for Munch to drive on. Fuming for a minute longer, Selena ran a hand through her dark hair before looking at Munch. “Ramona says that the women are being paid to leave the area near the docks. There’s good money in it. Better then any cop could pay a CI.” 

“They get pickier every year.” 

“Si,” Selena agreed. Glancing at Munch, She sighed. “Ramona was angry I wouldn’t pay more then agreed. I tried to get her to tell me where exactly but she refused.” 

“Save us on areas to look.” Munch told her. Pausing he looked at Selena. “You did good.”

Part Fifteen; 10 hours 

Land deeds. Every mob family had thousands of land deeds. Letty was now thankful she hadn’t agreed to sell Land plots like her father had suggested her to. //Join the family business…you won’t get shot at// She remembered. //You just won’t know anything about the mob and why they need thousands of land deeds.// 

“Hey,” Fin called to Letty after a minute. “We’ve got all the land and building registration on Roman Stevenof right?” 

“We should.” Letty sighed as she lay back on the table. “I’m really not liking this guy.” 

“No one does.” Fin stated as Elliot came back in alone. Obviously Charlie had blown up or Elliot had. “But if Roman is prison we need to look at the family.” 

“That’s thousands.” Letty stated. “From Viktor to Solomon the family’s youngest grandson.” 

“Not all of them,” Elliot stated as he tapped away at his computer running a swift search. Writing down a phone number, he stuffed it into his pocket hoping that he would never have to use it or that he would just forget about it being there. “Alexander Stevenof…concentrate on the Godfather.” 

Letty sighed as she closed her file. “Why can’t we just go make him and offer we can’t refuse.” She stated. 

“Cute,” Fin muttered as he dug in the box for a file on Roman and Alexander Stevenof. “The family is pretty tight; I don’t think that Alexander Stevenof would cave on the life he made.” 

“Great,” Letty mumbled as Fin searched the file swiftly. “And the verdict?” 

“Roman was seen over in the docks, we didn’t clear out the warehouse there because we weren’t able to get a search and seizure of it.” 

“Why?” 

“Uncles land…we were only doing Roman.” Fin stated. “My guess that’s where she is.”

Part Sixteen; 9 hours 

Charlie stuffed the wad of cash into his pocket. Never once had he thought about going this route. It reminded him of the way the mafia family worked. But he didn’t have a choice, Elliot’s partner only had 9 hours left. 

Getting out of the car, Charlie went through the security and signed to see Alexander Stevenof again. Waiting only for a minute, he slapped the wad of cash into the guard’s hand before entering. It would pay for the cameras and for turning a blind eye. 

“No partner this time?” 

Removing his sunglasses, Charlie’s bloody bruise shown clearly on his face. “Told you before not my partner.” 

Stevenof’s face lit with a smile. “My Tonio’s work!” He exclaimed. “So sad he didn’t finish the work.” 

Not saying anything, Charlie grabbed Stevenof by the collar and slammed him against the wall. “Where is she?” Charlie snapped. “Where’s Detective Benson.” 

“I don’t know, traitor.” 

Charlie’s fist connected with Stevenof’s side. Bringing his knee up, Charlie didn’t flinch as his ribs cried in pain for the sharp movements. “Where!” 

Stevenof laughed as Charlie punched him in the face. “You really want to go down this road then, Charlie. Seems like my training paid off.” 

“I’m not a killer. You’ll survive.” 

“You won’t.” 

Charlie’s fist again hit Stevenof in the stomach. “Where is she?” 

“Don’t know.” 

Pulling away, Charlie cupped his hand behind Stevenof’s head and slammed Stevenof’s face into the table. “Where is she?” 

“You will not save her even if I tell you where. Tonio will kill you.” 

“I’ll deal with your boy.” Charlie growled. Bringing up Stevenof’s head, Charlie slammed it back down again. “Where?” 

“Docks, Number 291.” Stevenof replied. “You could have done something else Spencer. You could have been respectable.” 

“I don’t do respect.” Charlie muttered. “Remember, me against the world.” Loosening his grip on Stevenof, Charlie fixed his coat before slipping his sunglasses over his eyes. “GUARD!”

Part Seventeen; 8 hours

 “So we believe she is at Warehouse owned by the uncle, Alexander Stevenof.” Elliot informed Alex. “We need a warrant.”

 “Belief isn’t something I can take to the judge.” Alex countered as the two walked. “And Alexander Stevenof has a lot of warehouses.”

 Elliot went to answer feeling his cell phone go off. “Stabler.”

 “Number 291.”

 “Charlie?” Elliot asked. “What?”

 “Number 291.” Charlie repeated.

 In the background, Elliot heard the squeal of tires as if Charlie had taken a sharp turn. “291.” He repeated. “Warrant for warehouse number 291.” Elliot told Alex as they turned to stop at the judge’s chambers. Glancing up, Elliot already saw the Stevenof family lawyer. “What the hell did you do?”

 “Things you couldn’t.” Charlie muttered. “291…Elliot. Just get there.”

 “Charlie wait, swat will be there soon. Letty went to go get them.”

 The car stopped, engine no longer running. “Eight Hours left, I don’t wait.”

 Going to say something, Elliot discovered the line was dead. “Make it quick.”

 “Detective Stabler…Miss Cabot.”

 “Mr. Stevenof.” Alex greeted before moving into the judges chambers, followed by Viktor Stevenof leaving Elliot alone. His mind raced as he heard the heated debates in the chambers. Alex’s voice demanding the necessity of the warrant needing to be approved and the reason to believe that Stevenof family was seeking retaliation on the others. Elliot needed this to be approved. Olivia had become family to him. Charlie had become family to him as well during this, something that he had never expected.

 Alex came out and swiftly handed him the warrant as if handing a baton in a rely race. “Find her.”

 “Anything destroying the reputation of my client is discovered I’ll sue you and your comrades for slander. You’ll be working for us, Detective.”

 “Immunity.”

 “Granted.” Alex answered after watching Elliot slug the lawyer. Wincing as the detective shake his hand, Elliot moved away to his car before speeding away desperately trying Charlie’s cell phone number again.  

“Charlie, it’s Elliot. We’ve got the warrant and we’re on the way…don’t do anything hasty. Just wait.”

Part Eighteen; 7 hours 

Feeling his phone vibrate, Charlie ignored the second call from Elliot as he moved towards the warehouse. He had been here numerous times, just not when it was so heavily guarded.  

Unholstering his weapon, Charlie used it to hit one of the guards. He wasn’t going to kill anyone. Not this time.  

Moving into the warehouse, he hid behind several boxes before collecting his bearings. Elliot would be there with back up but who knew how long that would be and by his calculations, it would take longer for them to release Stevenof then what time he had left. 

That meant he would have to find Detective Benson and slip out with her unnoticed, easy as pie! 

Moving swiftly to the next massive selection of boxes, mainly frozen dinners, Charlie slugged another guard and hid him behind the boxes. “Night handsome.” He whispered before moving around the corner, weapon at the ready. 

Hearing the cell phone go off, made Charlie reach for his before remembering that it was on vibrate.  

“Viktor, what is it.” 

Tonio…oh Charlie’s day was just getting better. He had wanted a rematch with Tonio ever since the attack at the house. Smiling, Charlie retreated to stay behind the boxes. Sadly, however Tonio seemed to be some distance off and constantly moving, pacing maybe, for Charlie could only here every other sentence. Did Elliot have a warrant? Was he coming? Charlie couldn’t exactly tell. 

But the muffled femine grunt and cry was easy for him to hear. Turning, Charlie saw one of the guards he had put down beginning to regain consciousness. “Stay down.” He snapped slugging him again. 

Standing Charlie moved over towards the sound. Finding it, Charlie waited outside as the two guards slipped outside the freezer area for a cigarette. “Russians and smoking…right up there with vodka.” He told himself before moving to Olivia’s side. 

Pulling off the hood, he looked at the woman. “Charlie Spencer, I’ll be your rescuing officer for the day.” He told her as he lowered his gun and used his pocket knife to remove the rope from her wrists. Taking off the gag over her mouth, Charlie gave her a smile. “Easy, Elliot sends his love.” 

“You know Elliot?” Olivia asked. 

“Old partner.” Charlie replied as he untied her legs. “Come on, we gotta get out of here.” 

Standing with Olivia, Charlie turned only to hear the bang. Pain rippled through his stomach as he glanced down at the hole and the blood that was bubbling out of it as if he was a leaky sieve. Falling to the ground, Charlie let out a muffled cry. 

Eyes looking up at Tonio, Charlie reached for his own weapon but found it was already gone from his grasp. Damn him for not locating and disarming Tonio before rescuing Olivia. 

Feeling arms under his, Charlie shouted in pain as he was dragged away, leaving a trail of blood.  

“Stomach wounds. The most painful of all gunshot wounds. Lucky for you it went straight through, you’ll bleed faster.” Tonio replied. Moving towards Charlie, who was now slumped in the corner. “Who did you tell?” 

“You’re mama.” Charlie spat, His blood splattering Tonio’s shirt as he spoke. “The news, hell even the pope.” 

Tonio’s foot pressed into the wound causing Charlie to cry out in pain. Hearing Olivia’s feet coming towards him, Tonio turned to point the gun at her as well. “Tie her up. He didn’t tell anyone.” Tonio ordered before moving closer to Charlie. 

Bending down, Tonio patted Charlie on the shoulder before speaking. “No one mourns for the wicked, Charlie.”

Part Nineteen; 6 Hours 

Letty looked around her as she and the other SWAT members prepared. Next to her was her best friend, Colin. Both had been partners since she had finally gotten accepted to SWAT after her third time trying. “You good?” Colin asked, his Irish accent noticeable. 

“I’m good.” Letty replied as she made sure her clips were full. “You?” 

“Ready to do some heartbreaking.” 

Letty chuckled as Elliot came in with the warrant. Wearing only a bullet proof vest, Letty knew he’d be second wave along with Selena and the others. It was her task to clear the warehouse. “Oh I love that shade of blue.” She commented as her Sergeant took the warrant.  

“I think Charlie already went in.” 

“What!” Letty nearly shouted. She respected Charlie, he knew her skills and the skills of SWAT hell, Charlie had done busts with them. He knew it was suicide going in alone. “The boy got a death wish?” 

“You tell me?” Elliot snapped back. 

“Mount up! We got the call!” 

Collecting her shotgun, Letty gave him a small grin. “Don’t worry cavalry is coming. He’ll be all right.”

Part Twenty; 5 hours

Riding with SWAT, Elliot was silent as they went to the warehouse. Charlie wouldn’t wait for backup. Maybe Charlie had found Olivia was waiting for him out side. They had taken down only those that had become problems. 

Reaching for his phone, Elliot dialed Selena’s number. “Selena it’s Elliot.” 

“Hey, What is it?” She asked moving away from Fin and Munch. 

“What do you know of Charlie’s sister?” Elliot asked. 

“Plenty,” Selena answered. “What about her?” 

Elliot was silent. He didn’t know if he was the one to be doing this. Charlie had stated he didn’t want to find her, it wasn’t right for him to spoil her good life with his foster family crap. “Find her phone number…” Elliot replied. “I’ll give it to Charlie when-“ 

“The impala’s here, Charlie’s not.” Selena interrupted. 

Pain hit Elliot’s chest as soon as Selena told him that Charlie had gone in. “Get me that number.” He ordered before hanging up as the SWAT mobile command unit came around the corner. “Let’s get this started.” 

Exiting the large black truck, Elliot first placed a hand on Charlie’s impala. It was cool. “They may have two hostages.” 

“Two?” 

“Two—a detective Charlie Spencer, he may have arrived earlier and attempted to rescue Olivia Benson.” 

The SWAT Sergeant nodded, before moving over to brief his men.

Part Twenty-one; 4 hours 

SWAT swept through the warehouse followed swiftly by the other detectives and police involved in the rescue. Moving behind Letty and Colin, Elliot split apart from them when he found Olivia. Sweeping the room, he called to the others before moving to his partner.  

Pulling the bag from over her head, he helped Olivia look up at him before removing the gag. “We’ve got you, Olivia don’t worry.” he told her as Letty and the others entered with Tonio in handcuffs. 

“Elliot.” She interrupted, casting her eyes over to look at Charlie.  

Following her eyes, Elliot saw his friend slumped over in the corner. “Oh god.” Elliot muttered as he left Olivia with Munch and Fin. Moving to Charlie’s side, Elliot was careful not to step in the blood trail. Something he had missed earlier and was now cursing that he had. Reaching for Charlie’s neck, he felt a weak pulse as Charlie shuttered slightly. “10-53!” He shouted finally finding his voice. “MAN DOWN!” 

Elliot’s voice forced Charlie to open his eyes, even though that took too much strength. “Found your girl.” He coughed, blood falling from his lips as he spoke. 

“You did.” Elliot agreed. “Stay with me Charlie.” He pleaded after a minute. “Helps coming.” 

“No mourning for the wicked.” Charlie moaned. 

“Don’t you say that.” Elliot stated placing his hand on the wound. Hearing Charlie groan, Elliot kept the pressure on his friend’s wound. “You’re gonna survive this. And you gonna be teaching me that trick…the one you did with Selena’s stress ball.” 

Laughing, Charlie’s eyebrows furrowed in pain. “Selena taught me.” He told Elliot. “I found your girl, El.” Charlie repeated. “Found her.” 

“Stay with me.” Elliot snapped as the paramedics pushed him out of the way. “He’s a cop.” Elliot told them as he finally moved to Olivia’s side, Charlie’s blood on his arms and hands.

“He’ll be okay.” Olivia stated softly as she watched the paramedics work.  

Not saying anything, Elliot watched as Selena approached. “Get me that number.” He told her before escorting Olivia to the ambulance after the paramedics had left with Charlie.

Part Twenty-two; 3 hours 

Her day was boring. 

To Alison White, boring was good. It meant that no kids needed to be placed in foster care, no one was abusing another human being. She liked boring. 

Brushing her blonde hair behind her ear, the small tattoo on her wrist of a sun, was visible due to the moving of her sleeve. Opening the file, she began working on case more personal to her then any of her others.  

Her brother—Charlie. 

Swallowing, she reached for her frosty and ate a spoonful of it before placing it next to the beat up file. It was because she wanted to find Charlie that Alison had gone into social work. Still it was hard, she had tracked him through the system for a while before he seemingly disappeared.  Now she was lost in a group of three hundred or so Charles Spencers. A number she wished she could simple boil down with anything but a DNA testing.  

Age of course had narrowed it some what. Her brother was only two years older then she was. However, she didn’t know where he had gone. Had he emancipated himself, ran away and lived on the streets. Was he a druggie or a no name in a psychward? Or her worst fear was her brother dead.  

“White.” 

Her head shot up, so hard Alison felt a sharp pain in her neck. “Yeah?” She asked rubbing the pulled muscle. 

“Phone call on line three. Detective Stabler.” 

Alison nodded as she picked up the phone. “This is Alison White, how can I help you Detective.” 

“I need you to come to Mercy Medical.” Elliot told her as he got out of the ambulance with Olivia. 

“Perhaps if you tell me a bit more over the phone, we can eliminate some of the case work-“ 

Elliot moved away as the paramedics wheeled Charlie in. “It’s about your brother.” 

On her end, Alison almost dropped the phone. “I’ll be right there.” She stated before hanging up and collecting her keys.  Running for her car, Alison was once thankful that the hospital was only a twenty minute drive.

Part Twenty-three; 2 hours 

Reaching the hospital in record time, Alison saw Elliot standing alone with blood on his sleeves. “Detective Stabler?” 

Looking up at Alison, Elliot noticed that she looked nothing like her brother, save for the eyes. Her eyes were like Charlie’s. “Yes.” 

“Don’t tell me he’s dead.” Alison stated her hands falling to the side of her white skirt. “Please don’t.” 

“He’s in the OR right now…he was shot, in the line of duty.” 

Charlie was a cop. Feeling faint, Alison fell into Elliot’s arms. “How bad.” 

“He lost a lot of blood.” Elliot told her. “I use to partner with your brother thought, Miss White, He’s a survivor.” 

Alison nodded slowly as she allowed Elliot to hug her. “Oh god let him live.” She sobbed. “Let him live.” 

Part twenty-four; 1 hour

Charlie awoke to see a blonde mass of hair beside him. “I die and get a Valkerye.” He groaned closing his eyes again.  

Hearing the voice, Alison awoke slowly. “Hey.” She cried before hugging him tightly. 

“Shot in stomach.” Charlie moaned as he winced. “Pain.” 

She pulled away swiftly. “Oh my god, Sorry.” Alison apologized. “I didn’t mean…it was an accident. 

“Not a problem, Blondie.” Charlie replied closing his eyes, the morphine getting to him. 

“Alison.”  

The correction caused Charlie to open his eyes again. “Shitting me.” He commented before drifting off. 

Epilogue; Two Months Later

 “The girl promised to testify as did the accomplice.” Elliot announced as he tossed the file onto his desk. “Not a bad days work.” 

Glancing up at her partner, Olivia chuckled. “Open and shut for once.” She commented as she picked up her coffee mug and moved to get more coffee. Part of her had gotten over the abduction. Forcing herself back into work, Olivia had Letty to thank for some self defense classes. Tory had agreed to help her with some one on one sparing. But in her mind it was still the look of shock on Charlie’s face when he was shot that bugged her. 

The knock on the door frame startled her. Turning Olivia looked Charlie as he used the cane to stand with and his sister on the other side. “Bad time?” 

“Never!” Olivia stated with a smile. “Requesting a transfer.” 

“LOA.” Alison answered for her brother. “He needs time to recoop.” 

“She babies me to much.” Charlie joked as Elliot joined them. “No the job is giving me some time to take a vacation…figured Bahamas." 

“You’ll set off metal detectors.” 

“Funny, you think of that yourself?” Charlie countered Elliot’s comment. 

Olivia laughed as she placed her coffee mug down. “It’s good to see you out and about, Charlie.” 

“The Warden finally agreed I could have company.” Charlie teased about Alison. 

“Oh the Spencer wit…or not.” 

Elliot made a shocked face. “Point for the Sister.” 

Charlie smiled as he finally produced the flowers for Olivia. “I come with gifts.” He added. “Thought I’d give you a welcome back present.” He added with a small smile. 

Taking the flowers, Olivia looked at Charlie before she smelled them. “Thanks.” 

“Welcome.” Charlie replied before he winced as he turned to look at Elliot. Holding out his hand, Charlie looked at Elliot. “Call me some time. We can have a beer.” 

Taking Charlie’s hand, Elliot nodded as he smiled. “Sure.”

The End.