Archive of Our Own ^beta

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Ben absently stirred the soup he was cooking for his family. He and Mike had recently celebrated their 3rd anniversary as a couple. They had celebrated an entire weekend, during the days they were out with the kids and in the evenings they went out for dinner and long walks, simply enjoying quality time before making long, sweet love after getting home. The adoption process for Ezra had worked out well for everyone, especially the boy who had grown to be a bright and happy boy since he had joined Mike and his two children. Ezra was the first to call Ben ‘papa’, Stella and Danny copied that, making Ben and Mike very happy. Mike was glad that his children accepted Ben easily.

And even though they were a family and living together, Ben wanted more. He had often thought about marriage and officially adopting Mike’s children. When Danny had an accident in kindergarten and had to be rushed to the hospital for surgery, well, Ben hated not being able to be there for the boy he loved as if he were his own. The teachers couldn’t reach Mike because he was stuck in a hostage situation and Ben hadn’t been allowed to stay with Danny and the doctors couldn’t answer his question. It scared and hurt him deeply. The fact that he was denied being there for his son because he wasn’t married to Mike or an official parent to the boy had left Ben feeling desperate and worried. And he knew that it would always be like that… unless…

Unless he’d finally find the courage to take out the small, black box, which had been hidden in his coat pocket for many weeks by now, and ask Mike to marry him. Ben knew there wouldn’t be any problems if it came to adopting Ezra since the boy’s parents were still in jail and wouldn’t get out of there anytime soon but it was more difficult with Stella and Danny. Their other father, Jack McCoy, was still alive and around, just not for his children. And Jack would rather die than sign his rights away and allow for Ben to adopt them. 

Months after their confrontation in Ben’s office, McCoy had put child care on Mike, citing that he was an unfit parent. The accusations had been dismissed quite quickly but McCoy had gotten himself a lawyer to get either shared or full custody of Stella and Danny. He still couldn’t accept that Mike and Ben were together and happy. He’d use every opportunity to throw mud at them, to undermine their relationship and incite others against them. The atmosphere at One Hogan Place had become disastrous for their colleagues with Jack’s constant outburst and threats, which had often become physical. 

But Jack’s continued harassment and attacks couldn’t break Mike and Ben. In fact, it had the opposite effect and only made them stronger as a couple as both have become more and more protective of one another. Everyone else had been rooting for them, offering their sympathy and support on more than one occasion, with Max Greevey being the loudest. Mike and Lennie had to restrain the leutnant from punching the shit out of McCoy. His rants were something everyone at the precinct and One Hogan Place looked forward to. 

Some people have actually started to bring snacks for another round of Greevey vs. McCoy, much to Adam and Ben’s dismay. Ben had to actually beg Adam more times that he could count not to fire Jack, something that had surprised everyone, including Adam himself. He knew Ben was a fair man but he also thought Ben was a fool for taking Jack’s harassment and rarely defending himself, except when it got physical and Ben had no other choice. But he simply refused to be baited into long and loud arguments with Jack. It wasn’t Ben Stone’s style and Mike loved him even more for it. Not that Mike had any sympathy for Jack but he was glad about Ben’s calm and strong character. And Mike had no problem showing Ben just how much he appreciated the attorney, no matter where or when. The fact that Mike was so open with his love for Ben only fueled Jack’s anger.

So it was clear to Ben that adopting Stella and Danny was not an option, not now. Maybe not ever. Marrying Mike and making their family official were his biggest wishes. But there was still something else he wanted. He had often caught himself thinking about having a child with Mike, too, but never really dared to talk to Mike about it. Maybe out of fear that his lover didn’t want another child or worse, not a child with him. He kept questioning himself and his wishes, thinking he should be happy and grateful with and for the little family they already had. And he was, there was no denying that. Michael Logan was the love of his life and his children have become theirs, that was a fact. But Benjamin Stone still wanted more…

ONE HOGAN PLACE - BEN STONE’S OFFICE

Detective Mike Logan walked into the building, hoping that his partner was ready to go home this afternoon. The day had been one of those that drains him emotionally and physically and all he wanted was for his partner and him to pick up their children and spend what was left of the day with the people he loved the most. Greeting the secretary and other lawyers he soon found himself in front of Ben’s office where the door wasn’t closed entirely and he could hear Ben talking to Paul Robinette.

“What did Mike say?” Paul asked and Mike wondered what their conversation was about.

“Nothing because I haven’t talked to him about it.” Ben admitted and had to elaborate at Paul’s questioning gaze. “I’m kind of scared that he will say no. He already had two children and with Ezra we’re pretty much complete.”

“No entirely.” Paul said. “I mean, you would like to have another child with Mike so I’d say your family isn’t really complete yet.” He added, then thought about his next words. “I think you should just talk to Mike. I know that he didn’t have easy pregnancies but that was because of everything else going on. He was fit and healthy during both and there were no medical issues. Maybe he’d like to have one more, too.” He suggested.

Ben thought about Paul’s words before he said that he’d think about it. Mike left after hearing that. Ben wanted another child and he was wondering if he himself could imagine getting pregnant again. Ben had once mentioned that he couldn’t carry children so it was pretty clear that Mike would be the chosen one. But did he want another child? What if they did, would it change Ben’s feelings towards Stella, Danny and Ezra? They weren’t Ben’s children, not biologically, but Ben loved them as if they were his own. Would that change if they had a child together? 

Mike actually decided to change his plans. He needed time to think. He wasn’t against the idea per se but he knew that another pregnancy would mean a certain time off work again, desk duty for months and later on, the sleepless nights, diapers and so on. Paul wasn’t wrong, both of Mike’s pregnancies went well despite the circumstances and he was still young enough for there to be no issues. He’d have to talk to his doctor first though, do some tests and decide. He was due at his doctor’s clinic in the next week for his contraception shot. It still gave him some time to think about Ben’s secret wish. By the time the appointment would take place, he’d have made a decision, he was sure of that.

FOUR MONTHS LATER - STONE/LOGAN RESIDENCE - BEN’S BIRTHDAY

It was still quite early when Mike got out of the bed to get their kids ready for school. He had taken the day off and convinced Adam Schiff that Ben needed to stay home on his birthday, too, so the two of them could celebrate together. While the kids had their breakfast and chatted excitedly along, Mike prepared a tray with Ben’s breakfast. He wanted to spoil his partner of three years on his special day and he had already made plans for the afternoon where they would celebrate as a family but as long as the kids were in kindergarten and school, he and Ben would celebrate alone, just the two of them and he was looking forward to some quality time with his favorite attorney. 

Before he went out with the children, he brought the tray to the bedroom and woke Ben up, telling him to have his breakfast in bed and wait for him. Ben wasn’t to leave the bed and with a wicked grin, Ben agreed to be a good boy and wait for his sexy detective. Ben’s seductive tone and grin made Mike even more excited so he hurried to drop off the kids and get back to his man. When he finally came back after a little over thirty minutes, Ben was just about to put the dishes into the dishwater but ran upstairs when he heard Mike, who chuckled at Ben’s antics. With a bright smile he reached into the inner pocket of his jacket, picking out the letter that he wanted to give Ben. 

Ben looked actually a little confused at the letter but opened it carefully and that drove Mike crazy. He was looking intently at Ben, wanting to watch his reaction. Ben’s eyes widened at first, then he looked and blinked at Mike, asking if this was real and finally, at Mike’s nod in confirmation, Ben broke out into the brightest smile and Mike felt nothing but happiness surging through him. Ben picked up the detective in a moment of pure joy and spun him around, laughing and holding his lover close. Then, when their celebratory dance came to an end, he asked Mike how this happened and and the detective explained that he’d overheard Ben and Paul’s talk a couple of months ago and had been thinking about it before getting the necessary tests done and as soon as he had his doctor’s okay, he made sure they would succeed. He did admit that it was hard not to tell Ben before but he wanted to wait until his birthday. Ben was over the moon. He and Mike would soon have a baby together.

The two love birds spent the entire morning and early afternoon in bed, making love and spoiling each other with kisses and caresses until it was time to pick up the children. They went to a nearby cafe for some cake before they got ready to drive to a nearby outdoor pool they all liked. Mike had already prepared a basket with fresh fruits and vegetables as well as a cooling box for their drinks. Stella, Danny and Ezra were delighted to hear they’d have another sibling soon and demanded that they have a say in picking the name. Both men were glad that the three were happy about their new brother or sister, not that the gender mattered as long as their baby would be healthy. Secretly though, everyone hoped for a girl, especially Stella as she felt outnumbered by her two brothers and daddies. 

Later that night Ben finally found the courage to propose to Mike who said yes without thinking. Neither man found much sleep that night as they were too busy making plans and talking about the future. Ben wanted to get married as soon as possible so that he could adopt Stella, Danny and Ezra, which was a surprise to Mike but a very good one nonetheless. The fact that Ben loved the three as if they were his own was a gift that Mike never took for granted, given that their other father, and in Ezra’s case both parents, didn’t love them enough. Still, Mike wanted to wait until the new baby was born, citing that he wanted to look good on his wedding day and being fat and round was not a good look for a man but Ben managed to convince him in his very own and unique way… the one that didn’t include any clothes at all.

TBC

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TWO WEEKS LATER - ONE HOGAN PLACE

Knocking on Jack McCoy’s door was not really something Ben liked to do. He would rather stay out of the man’s sight and presence but he wanted to talk to his colleague. He had finally found the courage to propose to Mike, who responded with happy tears, lots of hugs and kisses and a soundly ‘yes’ that had Ben thinking he was in heaven. When Ben had mentioned that he’d like to adopt Mike’s children, Mike was very touched but had the same doubts as Ben regarding McCoy. Both were sure that Jack wasn’t going to make it possible for the two of them but Ben wanted to try and talk to the man about it. 

He waited until he heard Jack’s voice that told him to come in. Upon spotting Ben, Jack went into one of his famous tirades and Ben decided to wait him out. ‘Let him rant, get it out of his system, maybe then he’ll be calmer and able to have an actual conversation’, Ben thought to himself. 

“Jack, I’m sorry for interrupting you, I know you are very busy but I was hoping to speak to you for a moment. Would you mind if I sit down?” Ben asked politely. 

“I’m not interested in whatever it is that you have to say, Stone.” Jack responded harshly, very annoyed and really not interested at all. Not even curious.

Ben ignored his words and sat down, choosing his next words carefully. “There is something I wanted to discuss with you. It is about Stella and Danny.” Ben said and noticed how Jack suddenly seemed to be interested and actually listened to him. “You know that Mike and I are very serious about your relationship and I’m sure you remember when Danny had to be rushed to the hospital after his accident in kindergarten.” Ben said and Jack nodded, he did remember even though he never showed up to visit his son. Nor did he ask about the boy’s well being later on.

“Well,” Ben continued, “I felt very helpless because there was no way for me to stay with Danny until Mike showed up and added me to the list. I have been thinking about adopting Stella and Danny, I’m very serious about that but I do know that I cannot adopt them without your agreement. I don’t expect an answer from you right now, Jack. I just wanted to let you know so you could, maybe, think about it. I know you are still upset but I think Mike would be very happy about this, too.” He finished and waited for Jack’s reaction.

Jack just shook his head before he spoke, mocking Ben. “You don’t really expect me to give up my kids? To sign my rights away just so you can officially play daddy? They’re MY kids, Stone. Not yours and I won’t hand them over to you.” He told him.

“Please just think about it, Jack. You don’t really want them, never did. That’s what you told me. Even now, you’re fighting for custody but you haven’t bothered to spend any time with them. It isn’t our plan to erase you, Jack. You will always be their biological dad and one day, when they are old enough to understand it, Mike will tell them. But they don’t even know you, Jack. You’re a stranger to them. Me adopting them when Mike and I are married won’t change anything for you. It would only make it easier for Stella, Danny and me if, God forbid, anything should happen to them. I’m not asking you to think about it to hurt you, Jack. I love Stella and Danny, and Ezra, too. I WANT to be their father, in every way. Just think about it please. That’s all I ask.” Ben said sincerely. 

“Wait, you and Mike are getting married?” Jack asked, surprised.

“Yes, that is the plan. I finally asked him and he said ‘yes’. I am going to officially adopt Ezra. Jack, I know that I need your blessing in order to adopt Stella and Danny. Maybe, you could do it for them? Since Ezra started calling me ‘papa’, they both do the same. You might not like it but we are a family and we would like to make it official.” Ben admitted.

“I don’t have to think about it, Ben. The answer is no and that won’t change.” Jack told him firmly. “Now get out of my office. I’m busy and you being here is starting to get on my nerves.” 

Ben closed his eyes and shook his head slightly. Why he was hoping for Jack to do the right thing for Stella and Danny, he didn’t know. Jack wasn’t going to do anything for anyone, other than himself. He couldn’t stop himself from blurting out, “Mike was right. Trying to talk to you is a waste of time.” Then he hurried to get out of the man’s office and go to his own, hoping to calm down before he had to appear in court.

Jack remained seated in his chair, reflecting on the conversation and Ben’s parting words. Did Mike really think that he would give up his rights easily? Without a fight? Why should he do anything for Mike or Ben when they betrayed him so badly? A small voice inside of him said that it wasn’t true. Neither Mike nor Ben have done anything wrong, they didn’t betray him but Jack ignored the voice, pretending to be the injured party in this mess. 

But then he had a sudden thought and he knew, he just knew that if he played this right, he could break Mike and Ben up once and for all. Then, Mike would be free again and he most likely would need a shoulder to cry on and that’s what Jack wanted. There was no way in hell that he would let Ben Stone have it all.

Jack went back to do his work but not before sending a short message to Mike, saying that he wanted to talk. Mike agreed and invited him to stop by later in the afternoon so they could talk. Mike’s agreement lifted Jack’s sour mood immediately and he looked forward to setting the wheels in motion. It was time to end Stone’s illusions of playing happy family with Mike. Or his kids, whose names will come back to him later, when he wasn’t so focused on sexual fantasies about Mike Logan.

SAME DAY - LATE AFTERNOON

Adam and Lennie were chatting alone with Stella, Danny and Ezra while Ben was driving. Ben spotted Jack McCoy being let into the house and was wondering what the attorney wanted. Mike had obviously opened the door and invited him in, Ben just didn’t know why. He didn’t like it when Jack was around Mike, mainly because his colleague acted like an asshole towards Mike and Ben was very protective of his partner. Since it wasn’t completely dark outside yet, he asked Adam and Lennie to play outside with the children for a bit. Lennie agreed to stay with them but Adam refused to let Ben walk into the house alone. If Jack was trying something new, Adam argued that it was better for Ben and Mike to have a witness. Ben thought about it for a moment, then he agreed and the two of them made their way into the house quietly. They could hear Mike and Jack talking in the kitchen.

“So, I’ve heard you and Ben are going to get married?” Jack asked, annoyed.

“You heard that? We haven’t told anyone yet.” Mike mused.

“Ben told me today. He also had the nerve to ask me to give up MY kids so he can adopt them. Tell me you didn’t know about this.” Jack demanded.

“Can’t do that, Jack. Why are you even doing this? You don’t care about them, yet you are fighting for sole custody of them but Ben does care. He loves them and actually wants to be their papa. I don’t know why you’re acting like this.” Mike told him honestly.

Jack just shook his head. “If Ben wants a kid he can adopt your adopted boy. Or you two make one instead of trying to trade Steffi and Donald..” He accused the two.

“We’re not doing such a thing, Jack!” Mike said exaragated. “All we want is to be a family but Ben will always stay on the outside when it comes to STELLA and DANNY.”

“Ah yeah, sorry. I tend to confuse their names.” Jack shrugged.

Mike sighed loudly, trying to stay calm. “You’re not confusing their names, Jack. You’re outright forgetting them. Listen, Ben and I are going to get married and there’s nothing you can do to stop that. And we will figure out a way for Ben to adopt them legally.” The detective told his ex affair.

Jack grinned wickedly, “I could be pursued to sign over my rights but I want something in return. I’ll do it on one condition.” Jack teased, waiting for Mike to take the bait and he did.

“Just a minute ago you were accusing me and Ben of trying to trade the kids but yeah, do go on. What is it that you want?” Mike asked, annoyed, yet hopeful.

“Easy.” Jack said smugly. “One last night with you and Ben can have them.”

Mike’s eyes widened in shock at the mere thought of spending one more night with this man. He couldn’t really regret the affair with Jack McCoy, he wouldn’t have Stella and Danny but he would never let Jack touch him again. 

What Mike didn’t know was that Jack had high hopes he would agree, that Mike would be so desperate that he’d spend one more night with Jack and end up getting pregnant again. It would lead to Ben breaking up with the detective who then would be free for him again. 

“You’ve got to be kidding me?” Mike asked, outraged, finally able to speak after a moment of utter silence. “You’re not serious, Jack. You can’t be.” He added, hoping.

“I am serious.” Jack retorted and got angry at the look of disgust on Mike’s face. “Come on Mikey, you’ve always been a slut. Ben doesn’t even need to know.” He said but before he or Mike could say anything else, Ben came out of his hiding place and punched Jack hard in the face. Mike was too shocked to stop his partner but Adam was luckily able to get himself to move, to stop Ben from hitting Jack again. 

“Ben…, no. STOP!” He yelled and grabbed Ben by his arms.

“You son of a bitch!” Ben yelled, ignoring Adam and defending Mike. “How dare you come into our home and blackmail and insult Mike? You fucking piece of shit.” He continued, trying to get Adam to let go of him but Mike finally came out of his shock and wrapped his arms around his raging partner. Mike’s touch calmed Ben instantly and he took a deep breath.

“It’s okay, Ben. He’s not worth it, you hear? Jack’s not worth it. Please don’t give him the chance to come after us.” Mike begged and felt Ben calming down.

Before he spoke, Ben wrapped his arms around Mike, holding him tight. “I’m sorry, Mike. I just can’t believe he insulted you. Are you okay? This stress isn’t good for you or the baby.” Ben asked absently, surprising both Adam and Jack.

“You’re pregnant?” Jack asked, looking at Mike. Now he was outraged.

“ Yes, I am, not that it’s any of your business.” Mike sneered.

Adam tried to diffuse the situation. He was happy for Ben, whom he had come to love like he was his son, and Mike. He thought the two of them were a great couple, unbreakable. Jack’s latest antics were a danger to their happiness though and Adam knew it. He was convinced that Jack would somehow use Ben’s outbreak to try to cause more trouble. 

Ben was still holding on to Mike while glaring at Jack. Adam told Jack that they’d go and promised Ben and Mike to have a serious conversation with the scorned lover in the hopes of making him understand that his behavior and antics were childish and hurtful. Adam wasn’t sure it would actually do some good but he’d at least try to reason with Jack McCoy.

Sometime during the night, Ben had been arrested for attacking Jack but the judge dismissed the charges when half of the employees from One Hogan Place showed up to support Ben and stated that Jack had physically attacked Ben before and had caused a lot of tension at their workplace. Mike also had to give a statement then and explained the stressful situation between the three of them and Jack’s attempt at blackmailing him. And as usual, it was Ben who stopped Adam from firing Jack.

TBC

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FOUR MONTHS LATER

The past few months had been quite silent when it came to Jack’s antics. Adam had read him the riot act and was even more pissed when Jack still tried to get Ben arrested right after their talk. Adam had told Jack in front of everyone, just two days after the eventful evening in the courtroom, that he would fire him if anything were to happen again. Jack was supposed to leave Mike and Ben alone since everyone was tired of his constant bad behavior. 

The biggest surprise though came only two months ago when the doctor told Mike and Ben that they were expecting a baby girl. Stella was especially happy about the news and kindly offered to take care of her younger siblings so her sister could grow in daddy’s belly without the stress of having two annoying boys causing stress and noise. It was hard for the two adults not to laugh at their daughter’s words given that she was the loudest. Over the weekends especially, Stella would wake up everyone with her loud singing. The girl was serious about her ambitions to become a famous singer one day. Ben wasn’t very enthusiastic about her dreams but taught her how to play the piano and guitar regularly. Both of her fathers supported and encouraged her musical interests even though they hoped she’d pick another profession in her adult life. 

Danny and Ezra would have prefered another brother but didn’t care much other ways as long as Mike and Ben wouldn’t forget them. Ezra showed a lot more insecurity over his place in their family, knowing he wasn’t really their child. It took a lot of time on Ben’s part to convince the boy that his worries were unfounded, explaining that neither Stella nor Danny were his ‘real children by blood’ either and he still loved them to the moon and back. Ezra understood that but was still worried but Ben told the young boy that he was loved just as much as his older siblings by Mike and himself, that he would always be their son regardless of the fact that he wasn’t theirs by blood. 

The three children were the happiest when Mike and Ben finally got married in a very small and intimate ceremony that included only the five of them but was celebrated later on with all of their friends. Max, Lennie, Adam and Paul gave touching speeches about the newlyweds and toasted to their love and happiness. Jack found out about their ceremony a week later since nobody had told him to prevent him from showing up. By the time he was informed about their marriage, Mike and Ben were on their honeymoon with the kids in Dublin, Ireland and didn’t have to worry about Jack’s sour mood. 

As soon as the five of them came home, Ben started the paperwork to adopt Ezra and with Paul’s help, did some digging into the legal options he might have to do the same with Stella and Danny while Mike kept complaining that he was getting way too fat, much to Ben’s dismay because to him, Mike was still the sexiest man in the world and the attorney had to fight the urge to constantly throw himself at his husband. It was a blessing that Mike’s sex drive literally doubled and the two of them could barely keep their hands off each other. 

Now that Mike was seven months pregnant and forced to do desk duty - which Max and Lennie constantly teased him about - and Ben was finally officially Ezra’s papa and the little family had finished the room for the baby, they were all ready and prepared for the arrival of their new family member. Mike was already counting the days, ready to be his normal self since this pregnancy was very different. He was used to go through the months on his own, never having had someone to depend on or lean on and Ben’s (sometimes) hovering was a little hard to handle and yes, even annoying. But most of all, Mike enjoyed having Ben by his side. Only downside was the constant eating attacks, especially sweets. When he was pregnant with Stella he craved onions and spicy food the most, with Danny it was either sour or fruity stuff. Now he was eating chocolate bar after chocolate bar, cookies and cake. He was not happy about it. Ben thought it was cute and the kids enjoyed having lots of sweets at home. 

Max had a great time teasing Mike over his cravings, going so far as to bring muffins, cupcakes and other delicacies, made by his wife, to work so he could keep feeding Mike, much to Lennie’s amusement. Mike usually complained but ate everything and never shared with any of his colleagues. Even Ben, who stopped by to talk to Cragen over a case, got his hand slapped away by Mike when he tried to take one very delicious looking cupcake. 

Today, while Mike was busy going through and writing reports while munching on pieces of strawberry cake, Ben took Danny to his dentist. The boy was not happy but had no choice and Ben promised they’d grab a portion of pommes before he’d drop him off at school. Not that he would ever admit to anyone outside of his family but Ben really loved pommes. Burgers and Pizzas he could do without but fresh pommes he could eat every day. 

The two of them just threw their empty boxes into a garbage can when they were stopped by none other than Jack McCoy himself. Ben managed to keep his rather dark thoughts to himself and hoped this wouldn’t turn out to be too upsetting for Danny. 

“You helping the boy skipping school, Stone?” Jack mocked, obviously not willing to play nice with the boy around.

“We’re on the way to school, McCoy. He had an appointment that couldn’t be rescheduled. Not that it matters to you, right?” Ben retorted.

Jack just shrugged before he started talking about Mike. “Just saw your hubby this morning. Man he’s really letting himself go this time, doesn’t he? He was never this fat with the first two kids. What did you cum in him to make him this huge? You’re aware that you probably ruined the hotness that was Mike Logan for everyone, right?” Jack said, not caring that his own son was listening to everything.

Ben just rolled his eyes at the other man, then he took Danny’s hand and continued walking, anything to get away from Jack. After Ben punched him, which led to almost an entire night in a courtroom, Ben made the vow to himself and Mike, to never let Jack provoke him to the point of hitting again. As Mike said, Jack wasn’t worth it. And most certainly not when Danny was around to witness everything. He wished Jack would take the hint and leave them alone but it was obviously not what Jack had in mind.

Jack kept following the two and continued to insult either Mike or Ben and when Ben finally had enough and stopped to turn and look at the other man, he almost ran into them, which led Danny to take a step back, right onto the street where cars were driving and one was fast approaching. Ben, without thinking, reacted and managed to grab Danny and push him onto the sidewalk but he slipped and lost his balance, he tried to reach the offered arm from Jack but missed it, then was hit by the approaching car and literally flew through the air until he landed back on the street. Motionless. Unconscious. Jack was frozen in shock, not able to make a move or sound until the broken screech from Danny raised him out of his frozen state.

“PAPA!” The boy screamed, sobbing and in hysterics. He ran towards his papa, not caring about the traffic when a huge truck was driving by. His earlier screech had luckily gotten Jack out of his shocked state and the man was able to hold the scared boy back before the truck could connect with him. He tried his best to calm the boy down and protect Ben from more traffic. Someone around them, one of the bystanders and onlookers, already called for an ambulance and Jack hoped they’d be there soon. From a café on the other side of the street, a man came out running and screaming that he was a doctor and not to touch the man. He checked Ben’s pulse and luckily found it, even though it was weak. He asked for a cover or anything to keep Ben warm and Jack tore off his coat and put it over the injured man. 

He couldn’t tell how long it took for the ambulance to arrive. All he knew was that he had to get Danny and himself into a cab so they could follow the ambulance when they finally loaded Ben into the car and drove off. Thank God it didn’t take long for them to catch a cab and as soon as Jack arrived at the hospital with the frightened boy, he searched for his phone so he could call Mike. The detective ignored Jack’s calls, thinking the man in question just wanted to annoy him, or worse, try to blackmail him again. When Jack realized that Mike wasn’t picking up, he called Lennie and was only ignored once. Lennie thought it was weird that McCoy would call him but was curious to find out what the guy wanted. He quickly handed the phone over to Mike who in turn, after listening to Jack stumble over his own words, almost flew out of the precinct. He couldn’t get to the hospital fast enough. Lennie managed to grab his keyes and coat, then followed Mike and he drove them to the hospital. Mike was panicking, worrying about his son and husband, hoping they’d both be okay. His hand was laying on his stomach, as if he was trying to protect his unborn baby from the current situation. He knew he should be trying to stay calm for the sake of their baby but he was too scared, afraid to lose Ben.

It couldn’t be true, this couldn’t be happening. Mike felt like his entire world was turned upside down with Jack’s call. The attorney mentioned that Danny was not injured but traumatized, only Ben was hit by the car and in surgery. He couldn’t believe that this was happening. Only a few hours ago they were having breakfast with their children, laughing and joking around. Mike kissed Ben goodbye before he left to drop off Stella and Ezra and go to work. Now his entire world was spiraling down, the foundations of his happiness were rocking uncontrollably and he found it hard to even breathe. He couldn’t lose Ben, not now, not ever. Ben was his soulmate, his sun and moon. He felt himself drowning thinking that Ben might never see their child, it hurt so much. Lennie tried his best to comfort his friend, talking calmly while driving. He had managed to send a message to Max, informing him about Ben’s accident, where they are going and asked him to tell the others so when Mike ran full speed into the hospital, Adam, Cragen, Paul and Max were right behind them.

Danny was still crying and clung to his daddy when he spotted him running towards them. Mike held his shocked and traumatized son while looking around to see if there was anyone who could tell him how Ben was. He spotted a nurse and asked her. She excused herself to call down and ask for updates but she was told that the patient was still in surgery and that a doctor would come up to see Ben’s family as soon as he could. Mike then turned to Jack, asking him what happened and Jack explained the entire event, this time without stumbling over his words. Danny confirmed Jack’s words and Mike was glad that it was indeed an accident. A part of him had wondered if Jack could have pushed Ben and he knew if that had been the case, he would gladly kill the man with his own hands, no weapons needed. 

Minutes later, Mike figured that something was wrong with him. He couldn’t get his breathing under control and then suddenly his knees gave out and he fell, holding his stomach, feeling an unbelievable pain surging through him. It hurt so bad that he couldn’t suppress the loud scream or hold back the tears. Something was terribly wrong and he now feared for their baby’s life as well as Ben’s. Everyone was surrounding him, trying to help him up and the nurse noticed the chaos and called for a doctor. Within minutes Mike was loaded and pushed into an emergency room, where several doctors prodded him and checked him from head to toe. By the time he was given something for the pain he was ready to bite heads and hands off.

In the waiting room, Lennie and the other guys tried to calm down Danny, who was even more worried now. He’s seen both of his daddies in terrible conditions and it scared him. His heartbreaking sobs and shouts for Mike and Ben were piercing through all of them. 

Back in the examination room, Mike was constantly asking the nurses for updates on Ben, working himself into another round of panic until everything faded to black.

TBC

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It was late in the night when Mike finally opened his eyes again, feeling tired and a bit confused about his whereabouts. But the memories of the day came back to him quickly and he shot up in bed like a rocket, worried about Danny, Ben and his baby. His hands wandered to his belly without hesitation and he was glad to feel that everything was still feeling the same. He was startled a bit when he heard Lennie’s voice.

“Everything’s okay, Mike. Stay calm. You’re fine and the baby is fine, too.” Briscoe said quietly.

“Danny?” Mike asked, not able to form full sentences yet.

“Max and Paul took him home to your place. They’re staying with the kids.” Lennie said, calming Mike instantly since the children were in good hands.

“B… Ben?” Mike asked warily, dreading the answer.

Lennie smiled softly, yet genuinely, at Mike before he said, “He’s fine. Came out of surgery like it was a walk in the park. He’s resting now but he was awake for a few minutes already. He’s got a slight concussion so he was understandably a bit confused but the doctors are sure there won’t be any lasting problems. Although he probably won’t like the crutches, since he’s got a broken leg, he’ll have to get used to those.” He said with a grin.

Mike sighed deeply in relief, glad that Ben made it through surgery and was going to be alright. It made him so happy. “Can I see him?” Mike asked, desperate to see for himself that Ben was alright.

“They want you to stay in bed, Mike, and Ben is still resting from surgery.” Lennie said gently but held up his hands in surrender when Mike was ready to retort. “Okay, I’ll ask a nurse to see if I could wield you down in a wheelchair, okay?”

Mike only nodded in agreement, grinning broadly at his partner. It was an act though. Mike didn’t really feel like smiling at all. It was too close, he really could have lost Ben today. Every wish and dream he had for them could have shattered in the span of just a few seconds. He knew he loved Ben more than any other men or women he had ever been with but when he heard about the accident and that Ben was in bad shape, he thought he lost the ability to breathe forever. Everything blurred, his vision, his feelings. Even his heart stopped beating for moments, he was sure. 

But now he felt calmer, assured that Ben was going to be fine, not gone. Still, he needed to see his fiance with his own eyes, to see his chest rising, to feel his warm skin. Nothing else mattered. Only Ben and their love.

When Lennie came back with a wheelchair, Mike felt an endless sea of happiness flowing through him. He was in such a hurry that he was out of the bed before Lennie even reached his side.

“Hey, you’re not supposed to walk around, Mike! If you’re not following the doctor’s orders I won’t take you to see Ben.” Lennie spoke harshly. Just like everyone else, he’d been worried about Mike as well as Ben and Danny.

“I know, I know.” Mike admitted sheepishly. “I’m just so desperate to see Ben. Can’t you understand that?” He pleaded.

Lennie sighed, then relented and spoke softly, “I do understand that, Mike. I really do but you won’t be able to see him if you stress yourself out again. It’s not good for you and the baby. We all worry.” He said.

Mike promised to be good and follow every order and got in the wheelchair without hassle, much to Lennie’s relief. Mike was talking all the way down, worrying how confused Ben would be if he were to wake up all alone in a strange place. He did calm a little when Lennie told him that Adam was staying with Ben. The support of their friends really meant a lot to Mike and he was sure that Ben would feel the same. 

Just a minute or two before they finally reached Ben’s room, the attorney woke up to find Adam sitting by his side, on a hard and uncomfortable chair. Ben needed a moment to find his bearings and remember what had happened but then he was asking about Danny and if Mike had been told already. Adam warily mentioned that Mike had to stay in the hospital, too and Ben was trying to get out of the bed, saying that he needed to see Mike when there was a knock and the door opened to reveal a widely grinning Mike in a wheelchair, which was pushed by an annoyed looking Lennie. When the poor guy tried to close the door, Mike took it upon himself and drove the wheelchair to Ben’s bed, not waiting for his friend. It had both Lennie and Adam, who was trying his best to keep Ben in the bed by holding on to him, cursing up a storm about those two.

“I promise to be good and do as you say, Lennie.” Said man mocked the younger detective, mimicking his expression from earlier. Mike wasn’t supposed to do anything but rest but here he was, pushing his wheelchair because he couldn’t wait five goddamn seconds.

“It’s the same with this one, here.” Adam said. “He’s supposed to stay in bed and rest since he’s got a concussion but he tried to get up the moment I mentioned Mike.” He shook his head exarragated. “They both deserve a good kick in the ass.” He added and had everyone looking at him wide eyed. They have never heard Adam actually curse.

“WHAT?” Adam asked, almost shouting. “You think I don’t know how to curse? I do, I just don’t like it but you two idiots are acting like careless fools, risking your recoveries because you can’t wait a minute or two. You have to do better, gentlemen.” He reprimanded Ben and Mike. Both of them blushed sheepishly but promised to be on their best behavior now that they are finally reunited.

To give them a bit of privacy, Lennie suggested he and Adam go for a cup of coffee to the open café next to the hospital. Adam agreed since the coffee in the hospital was way too bad in his opinion. As soon as the two of them shut the door behind themselves, Ben moved carefully around in his bed so Mike could climb in and they could hold each other. Both of them needed contact and connection. 

When Adam and Lennie came back about thirty minutes later, they found Ben and Mike fast asleep, snuggled up together in the single bed. The sight melted their hearts and neither could feel any of the previous anger - that came out of worry - any longer. Ben had never been as happy and open as he’d been since Mike came into his life. And the children. Adam loved to watch the man he thought fondly of with his children. Ben might hadn’t been their father by blood but he was by heart and that was all that mattered. Even Mike had tawed around his colleagues at the precinct. The only black sheep around them was Jack McCoy.

‘Jack, the bastard’, Lennie thought to himself, not knowing that Adam had the very same thought going through his mind. Neither of them could understand the drama and chaos he caused. Jack had been in a relationship with his assistant Claire Kincaid for a couple of months, yet he was still trying to separate Mike and Ben in the hopes to get Mike back into his bed. Even worse, he used Stella and Danny to get between Mike and Ben which was, as everyone with a brain knew, the worst thing he could do and not something that endeared him to his ex. Mike has always been fiercely protective of his children so using them was the most stupid idea Jack could have had. 

Both of them wondered though, what would Jack do now? Would he attack through his attorney right now where both Mike and Ben would depend on their friends for help with the children and the house? Would Jack go so far and use the accident against the married couple? They both hoped he wouldn’t but neither could deny that they can easily imagine Jack doing just that. Since Mike and Ben had gotten together, Jack had proved to be capable of really anything. And even though he always failed, he never gave up.

Mike was released from the hospital two days later while Ben had to stay for over a week. Paul had actually temporarily moved into their home to help Mike with the kids and house since the detective was told to rest and not do anything strenuous or else he’d risk losing his baby. It wasn’t a risk Mike was willing to take so he obeyed the doctor’s orders and spent most of the time in bed or on the couch. And since Ben wasn’t much help for Mike because of the broken leg, Paul stayed even longer.

In the late afternoons, either Max and his wife Marie or Adam and his wife stopped by to cook dinner or bake some delicates for Mike’s sweet tooth. Of course they knew that Ben was - secretly - happily munching on the muffins, cakes and cinnamon rolls as well although he always denied it. 

One and a half months after the terrible accident, Mike woke Ben and Paul in the middle of the night to tell them that it would be good if they could take him to the hospital since he was in labor and wanted the good drugs from the hospital to get through the birth.

In his quest to hurry, Ben managed to fall out of the bed and break his hand and two fingers, which made it impossible for him to use his crutches. Mike, in between breathing hard, thought he was going to die of all the laughter he couldn’t suppress. Paul called Lennie, Max and Adam and told them to come to the house so one of them could drive Ben to the hospital after they figured out how to get him out of the house and into the car. Paul honestly couldn’t care less at that moment since Mike’s condition seemed more urgent. 

Mike was already hooked on all the necessary monitors and the intravenous access that provided him with pain medication and fluids by the time Ben was wheeled him by a nurse. His arm was in a cast and sling and his fingers were bandaged and stabilised. The sight of his bruised husband set off another round of hysterical laughter by Mike, who really, really couldn’t handle the good drugs well.

Ben, however, ignored Mike’s laughter - at his pain - and focused on getting his husband to focus on what was about to happen, not that Mike found it easy to follow his lover with the four most beautiful eyes in the world. The second nose however confused him since it was placed on Ben’s forehead and didn’t look very good there.

The lively description of “ his ” face - at least according to Mike’s funny view at the moment - was slightly annoying to Ben but he figured that Mike couldn’t help it and tried to focus on the birth of their daughter. He was glad that his husband didn’t require pain medication on the average days. He wasn’t sure if he could handle Mike on a daily basis, not when he was like this.

Hours later, Mike and Ben were looking at their beautiful baby girl Aeryn Rayanne. Mike hoped her eyes would always be this blue, like the ocean. Just like her papa’s eyes. The two new dads couldn’t wait to introduce their three older children to the newest member of their family. Soon, the family will be at home, living the life they dreamed of.

TBC

Chapter Text

Back at home, a week later, Ben and Mike loved and enjoyed life with four children. There was no jealousy from their three oldest, just pure love and protectiveness. Stella was over the moon to be a big sister to a girl and she loved feeding little Aeryn. Danny and Ezra on the other hand were not so happy since Aeryn was too small to play with them. But they did love to criticize her outfits, which were carefully picked out by Stella, a fashionista in training, much to Mike and Ben’s dismay. The girl had as many dresses in her closet as Ben and Mike had suits for their jobs. Then there were the hair clips and other accessories for her hair, as well as fashion jewelry and shoes. Calling her the family’s princess was a good way to describe her. But they all loved and adored her. They even sat around and let her play model, presenting her dresses and styles to her brothers and parents. 

With Ben still recovering from his broken leg and hand, Paul was still living with them, helping out with the children and house chores. Today, Mike and Ben had the afternoon to themselves as Paul, Max and Lennie took all the children out to the playground. They all took their babysitting duties quite seriously and showed up every day.

Mike and Ben were cuddled up on the couch in the living room, enjoying quality time with the kids spending time with their favorite uncles. Unfortunately, a knock on the door interrupted their cuddle session, much to their annoyance. Mike sighed before getting up from his position and walking to the door. The raven haired man could only guess who was standing behind the door but he sure as hell did not expect to see Jack McCoy. He groaned inwardly at the sight of his ex, dreading his presence. There hadn’t been a word from Jack since the accident, which Mike was very grateful for. 

“Hello Mike, I heard you had your baby. Congratulations to you and Ben. I hope all is well with him or her and that Ben’s recovery is going well, too. I just came by to give you this.” Jack said, holding up a letter from his lawyer. “The appointment is set for next Friday. I hope it’s okay for you. If not, we can make a new one.”

Mike couldn’t believe it. Jack was seriously taking them to court now. Hadn’t he caused enough trouble already? Couldn’t he give them more time to recover before attacking again. He was so upset that he couldn’t even find a word to say, he just stared at Jack. The man in question handed over the letter, then bid his goodbye under Mike’s stare. 

When Jack was out of sight, Mike slammed the door shut and started muttering angrily until he heard Ben’s voice, asking him who it was first, then what was wrong. He went back to the living room where Ben was trying to get into a sitting position, waiting impatiently for Mike to join him on the couch, patting the space next to him and motioning for his husband to sit down.

“It was Jack. He gave me this. Appointment is next week. We should have seen this coming. He’s been too quiet lately. God, he’s going to use your injuries and Aeryn to get shared custody of Stella and Danny.” Mike said, sighing, close to tears.

Ben hadn’t been listening to him. He had opened the envelope and was reading the contents.

“Mike…” Ben said in amazement. “Next week,...” He began after a moment of silence.

“We’ll have to face him in court, I know. Do you think he can convince the judge to get shared custody?” Mike asked, desperate yet ready to fight.

“He’s not fighting for custody, Mike. He has signed his rights to Stella and Danny over to me and next Friday we’ll make it official.” Ben told his husband, stunned and happy.

“WHAT?” Mike asked, shouting. He couldn’t believe it. “How?” Was all he could say then.

“Here’s a letter from him.” Ben said before he started reading Jack’s handwritten letter.

‘Dear Mike and Ben,

I hope you’re all doing well and have found a new rhythm with your baby. Congratulations by the way. I hope your baby is healthy. He or she is lucky to have both of you as parents. As lucky as Stella, Danny and Ezra are.

You’re probably wondering why you’re holding this letter. I’ll gladly tell you my reasoning for the decisions that I recently made. The accident was terrible and I was scared for Ben’s life. When I approached him and Danny that day, I did it because I wanted to get a reaction from you, Ben. Seeing you lying there in your blood, unconscious… I thought you were dead. And Danny’s horrible screams, the way he tried to get to you, how he called you papa and cried for you… something inside of me klicked. Not at that moment of course. Later in the night, at home, reflecting on the accident, taking him to the hospital and waiting for Mike, waiting to hear that Ben made it and Mike fainting because of the stress. Everything kept replaying in my head, on and on, without a break. I couldn’t get my brain to stop. 

I felt ashamed and called myself pathetic more than once. I called Claire and she came to see me. I was a wreck. I hurt her so badly when I was chasing after Mike even though I was dating her. And yet she’s still with me. Talking to her that night really opened my eyes and I can say what I did… I did it out of competition. Because I was jealous. Pure and simple. 

I couldn’t stand that you would have Mike. You were already Adam’s favorite, the number one prosecutor and I was just the second best. And even though I never cared about Stella and Danny, I’m ashamed to admit that, I felt like Ben was once again taking something from me. The truth is, we’re both working for the same side, towards the same goals and yet, I turn it into a competition. I am truly sorry for that and everything else I have said and done in the past years. I was a real asshole and idiot. 

The only thing I can do now is to hope both of you will accept my apology. And I have decided to do the right thing for Stella and Danny. And myself. I’m afraid of children, they’re a huge responsibility and that scares me. I am a coward and I know it but I also know that the two of them have the best dad in the world. And with you, Ben, they also have the best papa they could have asked for. Please love those beautiful angels for me, give them the world and make sure they’ll always be happy and loved. Like they deserve. 

Maybe we can be something like friendly colleagues again at some point, maybe even friends. I can hope for that. Just… I know that there will come a day when you’ll have to tell Stella and Danny the truth about their other biological dad. When the time comes, please don’t tell them what an idiot I have been. I do love them, in my own twisted way, but it isn’t enough to be part of their lives, but enough to give them what they deserve. And that is Ben. Their papa. 

With love and regrets,

Jack McCoy’

By the time Ben finished reading the letter out loud, he and Mike were close to tears. Jack had just given them his blessing and it was the greatest gift he could have given them. 

A WEEK LATER - COURTROOM

Mike and Ben smiled gratefully at Jack, who smiled back at the two of them. Claire was by his side, showing her support. While Mike was talking to their attorney, Ben walked up to Jack to talk to him.

“Thank you, Jack.” He said, holding up his hand for Jack to shake it.

“You’re welcome, Ben. Promise me to do what I can't and love them.” Jack spoke sincerely, basking in Claire’s love for him. 

“We’re going to have our friends over on Saturday for a little barbeque to celebrate Aeryn’s birth and the adoption. We’d love for you to come over with Claire if you don’t have any plans.” Ben said, inviting them and surprising Jack. 

“You want ME there?” Jack asked, confused.

Ben chuckled before he responded. “Of course we want you there. Jack, you’ll always be their biological dad and we won’t take that away from you. We’d love for you to be like Lennie, Cragen and the others. Uncle Jack sounds nice and when they’re old enough we’ll tell them about you and I think they’d be very happy that you are a part of their lives.” He explained and Jack had to hold back the tears at the realization that he’d been a real idiot.

He thanked Ben and accepted the invitation, promising to come with Claire. 

SATURDAY - LOGAN/STONE RESIDENCE

The party was going great and everyone had a great time. Adam and Cragen were constantly fighting to hold little Aeryn, alternately holding the little cutie pie. Mike was responsible for the grill, while Ben did the drinks. Thankfully the weather was warm and sunny so they could sit outside in the garden. The kids spend most of the time in the pool, always under the watchful eyes of the adults. 

Jack and Claire were looking at the children and saw how happy they were, calling Ben their papa. They were truly loved and taken care of by the attorney. And Ben never treated Aeryn better than Stella, Danny and Ezra. He truly loved all of them equally and Jack knew he had done the right thing. As uncle Jack he could spend time with them, see them grow up without having to be responsible. He was still ashamed of his feelings and behavior but neither Mike nor Ben held it against him. 

Everyone was happy for the family. But nobody was as happy as the family themselves. Mike and Ben as well as their four children were most grateful for the happiness and blessings. True love was hard to find but the six of them were lucky. And each one of them would forever hold on to that.

FIN