coming out
Shay and Gabby were very careful about PDA. They hugged and they sat together because that’s what they did before they started dating. But Gabby wasn’t out yet. They had talked about it but ultimately Gabby was scared of being treated differently.
“I don't want them to start making jokes or worse" is what she said once when her girlfriend's roommate asked. Bless Kelly Severide, thank god that man could keep a secret.
“What's worse?” Kelly asked curiously.
“I don't want them to make Shay question whether or not I'm worth it…I come with a lot of baggage and I'm still trying to define myself. I love her to death and I'm so afraid that once we tell people, she won’t feel the same anymore…” She admitted tears trailing down her cheeks and onto the countertop.
“Listen to me. If I know one thing, it's that Leslie Shay is madly in love with you. She would give everything up for you in a heartbeat. Now come on, do you want a ride or not?”
Gabby nodded and grabbed her coat to head out to Kelly's car. She thought about what he had said and decided that she wanted to do it, not only for herself but for Shay too.
Once they were driving back from a call Gabby decided to talk to Shay about it. “I wanna tell them.”
“Tell them?” Shay asked a little confused
“I want to come out to our family. I want them to see you the way I see you.”
Once she was at a stoplight, Shay leaned over and kissed Gabby soundly. “You amaze me, Gabriela Dawson. I am behind you 100% and I am fine with whatever you decide.”
“Thank you. You’re my angel.” Gabby squeezed Shay's hand and flashed her the grin she was famous for.
Later that night, Shay decided that they would stay in to “celebrate”. That ended with their clothes on the floor below the bed. “When do you want to do it?” Shay asked tucking a strand of Gabbys hair behind her ear to cool her down.
“Maybe tomorrow. We could go in and announce it if that’s okay with you, if not I get it we can-“ The blonde's lips came crashing into her own effectively silencing her. “Stop doubting yourself. That sounds great.”
“How do you always know what to say? Here I am freaking out, and you just kiss me. How do you do it?” Gabby asked moving the sheets down to trace circles on her girlfriend's body.
“I don’t know honestly. But I do know that I love you so much and I want forever with you.”
“Forever huh?”
“For as long as you’ll have me. Now come on, let’s get some sleep.” She lifted her arm and Gabby laid down in the open space and sighed happily.
The next day before shift:
“You ready?” Shay asked Gabby.
“Honestly? Terrified.”
“Hey, they’re accepting okay? Remember the first day I came in there immediately saying I was gay? They immediately welcomed me with open arms. I’m going to be right by your side. You can do this.”
Gabby nodded and walked into the station. “Hey, Dawson.” Mills greeted. Upon hearing Gabbys name the rest of the firehouse looked up.
“You alright there Dawson?” Hermann asked.
“Oh yeah, I um. I need to tell you guys something....”
Cruz turned down the tv immediately and focused his attention on Gabby along with everyone else.
“It’s been a little while coming, and I feel ready to tell you all. I’m bisexual.” After she admitted it, a weight was lifted from her chest as she stared at her family.
Once the shock wore off suddenly she was engulfed in a hug from all the men.
“Way to go Dawson! Anyone in mind? I can set you up with my cousin!” Otis offered.
Gabby laughed and shook her head making eye contact with her girlfriend. Shay nodded in confirmation and grabbed her hand. “Actually...” She held up their hands. “I’m seeing someone.” She said shyly.
The men cheered and pulled Shay into their group hug as well. “How long has this been going on?” Mills asked confused.
“Half a year.” Shay smiled.
“We’re so happy for you. The both of you. Congratulations.” Boden said nodding his approval.