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violetmuses · 8 months ago

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Tandem - Multifandom (Part II) ❤️‍🩹 [18+ MINORS DNI]

Title: Tandem - Multifandom (Part II) ❤️‍🩹 [18+ MINORS DNI]

Fandoms: “Rebel Ridge” + “Bad Boys”

Characters: Terry Richmond + Armando Aretas

Love Interest: Female Reader

Main Storyline: When Terry Richmond arrives in Miami, who knows what could happen next?

Tandem Masterlist

@peaxhygirl @superstar-t20 @adoresmiles @klssngss @deja-r @hyper-trash-panda @amethyst-loves-bucky @planetblaque @sweettea-and-honeybutter @lovedlover @xjjawsomex @readingisahobby @kindofaintrovert @nelo0wesker @gg-trini @cloveroctobers @maliagurl @nobodygetsza @twinklestarslight @yassbishimvintage @episodes-ff @sweetiepie4190 @kirayuki22 @katbakhoe @persethegawd 🏷

=======

2024

When his favorite coffee shop closed over drama, veteran Terry Richmond began to lock down another routine after waking up every single day.

Until further notice, you would invite everyone to share different meals at your house.

Parking outside your home for breakfast, Terry chimed that doorbell and waited, not yet holding special house keys like members of AMMO.

“Hi. Good morning.” When the door opened, you answered.

“Morning.” Terry still greeted your own presence as usual.

Wow. Richmond thought.

You kept very little makeup and wore this comfortable outfit, but that smile remained.

“Come in.” You welcomed Richmond past the main threshold.

_____

“Bout time you got here, man.” Detective Marcus Burnett shuffled footsteps when Terry entered the kitchen.

“Am I late?” Richmond chuckled through slight awkwardness.

“No. Just haven't seen you in a while.” Marcus gestured by the table.

“My bad.” Since attending the public cookout, Richmond hardly mingled elsewhere and stayed private.

“No problem. Everybody's different.” Marcus continued speaking, but excused himself as you set down Terry's plate.

“Thank you.” Terry grinned while accepting the meal. “Where's everybody?”

“Kelly and Dorn just left. Christine isn't feeling well, either.” You counted friends and included Mike Lowrey's wife.

“Stomach bug?” Richmond frowned.

“Hopefully nothing miserable.” You didn't even know what to think.

“That's good.” Terry nodded and just continued eating.

_________

As time moved along, footsteps echoed from the staircase of your house and Armando Aretas emerged while holding his cell phone.

“I put you on speaker and we're listening. Tell them what you just said.” His slightly accented English rasped toward Mike Lowrey on the other end.

“Morning, y'all!” Mike raved. “We just found out that Christine is pregnant.”

“Aww!” Hysterical, Marcus sniffled through incoming tears. “I can't believe it.”

“Congratulations, Mike!” You cheered with the biggest smile on your face.

“Thank you! I'll keep everybody posted.” Mike chuckled through joy before hanging up. “Take care.”

Discarding that meal, you nearly jumped from the table and opened both arms to hug Armando. His rare yet genuine tears fell against your shoulder.

“Sorry.” Those brown eyes dampened through countless emotions.

“You'll have a sibling, no need to apologize.” You whispered and offered reality for Aretas.

Noticing Terry at last, Armando pulled himself together and stepped forward, dapping Richmond up.

“It's a big deal, man. Congrats.” Terry grinned for a moment.

“Thanks.” Aretas took the compliment this time around.

*****

“Y'all not gon’ believe this! Another business replaced the coffee shop.” Marcus Burnett entered that police department with news.

“What now?” Mike Lowrey questioned his longtime partner. Even Kelly and Dorn looked on.

“There's a restaurant.” Marcus pointed backwards. “Wanna check it out?”

“Sure. We'll go after the briefing.” Mike followed other comrades before Captain Rita Secada would make important announcements.

“Where's Armando?” Marcus quickly glanced around.

“At home. He's really involved now.” Offering joy, Mike acknowledged Christine's pregnancy while Aretas helped out on a regular basis.

“When Christine gives birth, don't force Armando to watch his sister, man.” Marcus advised.

“I'm not forcing anything.” Mike then grinned toward you. “He's ready.”

“Great.” Feeling much better, Marcus settled when Rita Secada stood behind the podium as usual.

Time to hustle.

*****

Prepared to work again, you joined this new restaurant when that old coffee shop no longer stood. Customers flocked in time for lunch.

When that front door chimed again, you'd just served this adorable family and guardians tipped well, bringing out joy during the crazy hour.

“Apologies for the wait…I'll find your seat as soon as possible…” You paused after recognizing Terry.

“No rush.” His deep voice almost chuckled as Richmond smiled for a moment.

“Hi.” You greeted him.

“This place looks even bigger than the coffee shop.” Terry noted.

“New construction plans. Follow me.” Taking one menu here, you led Terry near this table when coworkers straightened up other messes.

_____

“It's nice.” Terry acknowledged the establishment surmonce this lunch hour settled down.

“Yeah. It's family-owned with really good meals. Let me know if you need anything…” You planned to move elsewhere, but the door chimed again.

“I'm starving!” Marcus Burnett stepped through with Mike Lowrey. “Let's see what's going on here.”

“Surprise!” You cheered for a second when Mike and Marcus realized.

“Hey! Never left this spot, huh?” Marcus joked.

“Y'all just missed the lunch crowd.” You offered this truth and seated both friends.

Terry looked on from his table as Lowrey and Burnett ordered.

“No dessert.” Mike arched his brow while facing Marcus again.

“Damn!” Burnett gritted seconds later.

Paying the bill, Richmond laughed on his way out the door.

******

On your day off, no fireworks sparkled in Miami, but Mike and Christine announced the gender of their child while visiting your home one afternoon.

Rolling toward one curb, Mike kept driving his classic Porsche with its top down and revealed the vibrant shade of Christine's sundress.

“It's a girl!” You raved over pink designs while standing on this porch and watched the car leave after Christine waved farewell.

Before you would call Armando, his car pulled up out of nowhere.

“You'll have a little sister? Congratulations!” Your voice beamed.

“Thanks.” Parking, Aretas opened both arms to embrace you, happy.

_______

“Nervous?” You asked, quietly sharing lunch together.

“A little.” Armando set down his drink while thinking of Christine. “She's been through too much.”

“With y'all around, she'll be fine.” You raved over Mike's and Armando's efforts.

“I hope so. How are you?” Aretas questioned.

“I'm doing much better.” You said. “There's a new restaurant where the old coffee shop used to be. I work there now.”

“Cool. Sorry if I haven't been around.” Armando offered the truth. “I'm either at the police station, or helping Christine.”

“It's okay. You have important jobs.” You answered.

“Appreciate it, but where's my scone?” Armando teased you while remembering his order from the coffee shop.

“I'll find them.” You know that one break room found at the police department isn't great.

______

Right when you finished lunch and started watching a movie together, the doorbell rang.

“I'll get it. ” Armando stood from this living room couch and walked to that front door.

“Thanks.” You smiled.

Checking the RING Camera, Aretas noticed that Terry waited on this porch.

“It's T. Should I open the door?” Echoing past the foyer, Aretas offered his slightly accented English.

“Oh, shit! Yeah, let Terry in.” You almost scrambled after turning off the movie.

What happened? You thought.

Crosstalk overlapped for both men before Terry entered the living room.

“Hey. The landlord just announced renovations for my apartment. I just wanted to let you know in advance. ” Richmond explained.

“Oh wow!” You realized. “Feel free to stay here if you'd like. It's less expensive than hotels.”

“Are you sure?” Terry squinted. “I don't want to get in the way.”

“I don't mind.” You smiled.

“Thank you.” Richmond nodded.

“You're welcome. Go ahead and take any of the guest rooms.” You gestured upstairs from habit now and watched Richmond leave.

Meanwhile, Armando moved out of that apartment complex himself and stayed in the Lowrey household when Christine became pregnant.

“Mind if I leave after dinner?” There's another doctor's appointment.” Aretas pointed backwards.

“Okay. Driving her around?” You understood that Christine needed help traveling at the time.

“Yeah. Mike can't do it this week.” Aretas just went on.

“All right.” Nodding, both of you straightened up the living room early.

______

In time for dinner, Richmond headed back downstairs after organizing his temporary room.

“Armando's leaving early tonight.” You updated Terry.

“Everything good?” Terry sat down after making his plate this time.

“Busy tomorrow.” Aretas joined the kitchen table once more.

“Aight. As long as you're okay.” Terry checked regardless.

“Thanks.” Armando clipped.

When everyone sat down together and silverware clanked, you smirked once hot sauce reached the table again.

“Don't crash out.” Gently warning Terry and Armando, you drank one beverage, waiting.

“That's funny.” Richmond took that bottle, yet Aretas jokingly casted both eyes toward the ceiling.

Your laughter warmed Terry's heart.

******

Sooner than later, countless nights moved and different hours returned to your life, but one specific call would change everything right away.

“Wait, what?” Barely awake, you sat up in bed and whispered near your cell phone around two o'clock in the morning.

“Sorry to wake you up, but I'm driving. Christine's water broke!” Armando dropped the big news.

“Oh, shit!” You tried to avoid screaming and knew that Terry continued staying in one of the guest rooms. “Are you serious?”

“Yeah, but don't stop by yet.” Armando explained quickly. “Immediate family visits first.”

“Okay. Keep me posted. Congratulations!” You can't help smiling.

“Thanks. Now I should get going or I'll miss my turn!” Aretas nearly chuckled before hanging up.

Overjoyed, you grabbed one pillow and squealed inward, unable to sleep again.

______

“Hey. Woke up earlier and thought I heard something.” By daylight, Terry noticed that you kept the bedroom door open.

“It was me.” You don't even feel embarrassed anymore. “Christine's water broke last night.”

“Wow.” Terry smiled.

“I'm going to the hospital, so make yourself at home.” You packed gifts and prepped other essentials.

“Tell everybody I said congratulations. See you later.” Terry bid farewell, but you tossed an object.

Using quick skill, Richmond palmed house keys before your car rolled out.

*******

“She's here, man. Wanna hold her?” Once Christine safely joined parenthood, Mike held his beautiful daughter, yet faced Armando.

“Yeah. I'll sit down first.” Wearing hospital scrubs through protocol, Aretas nodded.

“Kay.” Mike glanced toward Christine and signaled with happiness.

When this child reached Armando's embrace, life made sense.

No more secrets. No more danger. No more pain.

Regardless of what happened next, this moment changed everyone.

______

Bringing his wife Theresa with family, Mike Lowrey's longtime partner and best friend Marcus Burnett almost sobbed when entering the hall.

“My niece!” Marcus blubbered, even fogging his glasses.

“Marcus, please stop crying.” Mike screwed up his face, but Christine laughed while resting now.

Even right here, theatrics made no difference as joy prevailed.

______

“Hi!” Despite showing happiness, you whispered to avoid interrupting that space and found Armando holding his little sister.

“Hey. Look, she's so small.” Aretas grinned near you as Mike and Christine looked on.

“She's adorable! Congratulations again.” You beamed without stepping too close.

“Thanks for coming by.” Armando glanced between you and his little sister once more.

“You're welcome.” You nodded before setting down presents.

“What's up, Rook.” Mike Lowrey smiled in your path and Christine drifted to slumber, exhausted.

“I can't believe this. How are you?” You carefully greeted Mike.

“A lot of work, but she's here.” Mike said. “We're very grateful.”

“I'm so happy for all of you. Take care” You planned to step out, but Armando revealed a surprise from one corner.

“Say bye.” Mimicking expressions, Aretas looked toward you and wanted his little sister to bid farewell.

Hearts melted when you left the hospital and friends celebrated this brand-new chapter.

******

Nightfall crossed the Florida skyline when your car returned to this driveway.

“Hi.” Closing that driver's seat door, you met Terry by the porch.

“Hey. How'd it go?” Richmond offered his deep voice and smiled, guiding you back inside.

“She's beautiful, T. They're over the moon.” You nearly tear up over this day, but wouldn't overreact.

“That's good to know.” Richmond shared calm amounts of joy.

“Everything okay?” You realized his quiet demeanor.

“Thank you for my keys.” Terry accepted that choice.

“Oh! You're welcome.” You nodded upon realization. “Not sure how long renovations will last, so I got the set just in case.”

Dining with leftovers that night, both of you welcomed silence in the home as life shifted.

*****

During your lunch break one afternoon, Mike sent this picture via text messages:

Armando napped while Christine sat on the couch and held her little sister girl.

MIKE: Caught Big Brother slipping! 😂 😴 🍼

Before you could text Mike back, Armando called immediately.

“I'm at work. What's going on?” You picked up the call and stepped outside.

“Don't laugh.” Aretas spoke to you and revealed his little sister's nickname. “I knocked out at like 3 o'clock in the morning because ‘Princess’ wouldn't fall asleep.”

“Aw. How's everything?” You smiled regardless of jokes.

“Besides Christine, I'm her favorite.” Armando chuckled.

“No!” You gasped. “Is Mike okay?”

“He's cool, don't worry.” Armando ended the conversation. “Oh, man! Princess just woke up from a nap. Bye.”

“Bye!” Hanging up, you go back inside and finish the day, energized through happiness.

_______

Back home, you find Terry sleeping on the living room couch, but this note waited on that coffee table.

I'll leave soon. Thank you for everything. - T.

Not waking him up, you noticed when the house keys angled by that note and even his backpack set on the floor.

Just before you head upstairs to shower and rest, his deep voice grumbled.

“That you?” He turned with groggy eyes and your face smiled.

“Go back to sleep.” You instructed.

“No, Ma'am.” Though exhausted, his respect lingered.

“Huh?” You knelt.

“Thank you.” Pulling himself together, Richmond left the couch and stepped forward. His bright eyes locked down.

“How early are you leaving?” You stand up, questioning him.

“Can we still have breakfast together?” Terry almost laughed. “There's no more renovations at my place.”

“Deal. Good night. Oh, who's this?” You planned to leave once more, but your phone signaled one video chat.

Mike called.

“It's Mike.” Your voice nearly giggled.

Just before you answered, Terry sat down elsewhere in the living room.

“Hey! It's us. Wanted to show you something before bed.” Lowrey greeted you first.

“Hi! What happened?” You can't wait to see what Mike planned.

“Hey.” Armando noticed you on camera while holding his little sister.

“Hi.” You waved to that screen as “Princess” rested her head on Armando's shoulder.

“Saying good night.” Aretas glanced between you and his little sister, quickly smiling.

“Night. Get some rest.” You bid farewell as expected, but noticed that Terry stepped forward.

“Night, everybody.” Richmond's deep voice reached your path.

“Night, T.” With Armando saying goodbye, The video chat ended before long.

“That was a nice surprise.” You turned around for a moment.

“I didn't want to yell.” Terry still acknowledged respect.

“I'm sure they appreciate it. Sleep well.” You finally go upstairs for bed.

*****

“Thank you again.” After promising to share breakfast, Terry gathered his belongings and would leave your house.

“It was nice. Feel free to keep visiting.” You smiled in the driveway with him.

“Yes, Ma'am.” Richmond nodded and started the truck. “Have a good day.”

“You too. Be safe.” You waved by the driver's seat window and Terry left just before you shift.

_______

After work, you drove to Mike's house with takeout from the restaurant and rang this doorbell.

Steps echoed from inside the household as you waited.

Before long, Armando answered this door without holding his little sister sister.

“Hey.” His slightly accented English rasped once more.

“Hi.” You greeted him. “I brought food in case y'all needed some help.”

“Thanks. Come in.” Armando guided you past its threshold.

______

“Hey!” Mike opened both arms to hug you upon realization.

“Hi. I've brought plenty of food if you don't feel like cooking for a little while.” Your voice offered help.

“Thank you so much. She's running the house now.” Despite laughing, Mike acknowledged his newborn daughter.

“How's Christine?” You questioned.

“Sleeping upstairs.” Mike gestured.

“Good.” You nodded once more.

Heading to the living room, you find Armando with little sister.

On sight, the newborn cooed in your direction, happy out of nowhere.

“No jewelry today. I came here from work.” You laughed.

“I've had pictures on my phone and she likes your smile.” Aretas revealed.

“Aw!” You swooned, almost giggling. “Thank you.”

“You're welcome.” Armando says.

“She has your eyes.” You gestured between Aretas and “Princess.”

“Don't get too excited, Rook. Both of ‘em have my eyes. C'mon. We'll be back.” Mike corrected you while taking his daughter for a quick diaper change.

“How are you doing?” You questioned Armando once Mike stepped away.

“Tired, but it's worth it.” Aretas then offered his truth. “I want Christine to feel better.”

“That's so sweet.” You knew that parenthood would change Mike and Christine forever.

“Yeah.” Armando continued speaking.

“Don't worry.” You reassured him. “You're doing a great job.”

“Thanks. Is Terry still at your house?” Armando switched topics.

“Renovations just ended, so he left this morning and moved back to his apartment.” You explained.

“Cool.” Aretas laughed for a moment while taking his cell phone.

Before you could speak again, Christine emerged from the stairs.

“Hello.” Her kind smile warms your heart as both of you greeted one another.

“Hi, how are you feeling, Momma?” You checked no matter what.

“It's definitely a process, but she's healthy and safe.” Christine promised. “That's all we ask for

now.”

“Of course.” You agree.

“I need a favor.” Christine whispered and giggling for a moment.

“Anything.” You offered.

“Get him out sometimes, and working at the police department doesn't count.” Christine glanced near Armando.

“I'm right here.” Aretas lifted his finger.

“You heard Christine.” Taking your purse, you walked Aretas out of the house before his little sister would notice and cry.

_______

“Where are we going?” Armando joined the passenger seat while you drove.

“It's a surprise.” You just kept your eyes on the road, silent.

“Man, I haven't seen this place in a while.” Soon enough, Aretas noticed the parking garage of his former apartment complex. “What's up?”

“Let's visit Terry.” You giggled, bringing junk food and takeout inside.

*******

Unexpected knocking reached Terry's interest this afternoon and he stepped forward to answer.

New construction aside, Richmond hadn't found other styles for the apartment and kept general designs in place.

Opening that door, Terry smiled when you stood with Armando in the hallway.

“Big Brother now? Come in.” Richmond dapped up Aretas while you closed the door.

“Christine asked me to get 'em out the house, so we came here to bug you.” You laughed and placed treats on the small kitchen table.

“You're not bugging me. It's quiet over here.” Terry said.

“Don't mention his little sister anymore. He'll leave and ignore us.” You gently warned Richmond over Armando.

“I can still hear you.” Armando took one of your snacks before sitting down.

“Oh, don't get in trouble.” Terry chuckled back while facing your direction.

“Y'all can't tell me what to do.” You sat from another chair.

“Be nice.” Terry arched one brow and crossed both arms, revealing his service tattoos here.

“Or what?” Your voice teased.

“Damn. Should I leave?” Armando cleared his throat.

“No.” You glanced near Aretas. “I drove us here, remember?”

Just before Armando would respond, your cell phone rang.

“Hi, K. Wait. what's wrong?” When you answered the phone, AMMO's weapons expert Kelly reached out. “I'm with Armando and we're visiting Terry.”

“What happened?” Armando stepped closer, but Terry stopped him.

“Shit! We gotta go.” Hanging up, you scrambled to leave and instructed Aretas. “Call the team right now. Someone found drugs at my job.”

“Wow. Is that area haunted or something?” Terry became concerned.

“We'll find out. Lay low, okay?” Your voice rushed to say goodbye and Richmond closed the door as planned, waiting.

******

“Here's the bad news: it ain't weed.” Marcus Burnett updated everyone as red and blue overcasts brightened that Florida skyline once more.

As a former detective, you crossed yellow tape with the squad and known sirens pierced through everlasting wails.

“What happened this time?” You walked toward Mike next.

“One of the line cooks found this random supply before calling us.” Mike explained.

“Damn.” You shook your head. “Death toll?”

“Thankfully no count yet, but I wouldn't be surprised if food has been contaminated or people got sick.” Mike went on.

“Fuck!” You gritted and mentioned Captain Rita Secada. “All right. Make sure Rita shuts down the city as soon as possible. I'm not taking any chances.”

“Aight. Shut it down, team!” Mike took charge elsewhere and you stayed with Armando.

“Once we head back to the station and confirm everything, do you wanna go home?” You looked out for Aretas just in case.

“No, thanks. I'll stay with you.” Armando's response surprised you here.

Not arguing, you drove toward the precinct without fail.

******

Leaving the police department and crashing at home hours later, exhaustion blacked out time upon return.

By morning, you woke up in your personal bedroom, discovering this note:

Don't shoot me, but I carried you upstairs last night. - Armando 🖤

Taking one much-needed shower, you pulled yourself together and moved downstairs, joining breakfast without cooking this time around.

Reaching the kitchen, you found Armando shirtless, but this gold chain shined around his neck.

Shit.

“What's wrong?” His brown eyes noticed your confusion as two plates meet that table.

“Nothing.” You've cleared your throat and accepted the meal.

“Taking a break until the wolves show up.” Aretas expressed.

“Call Christine and check on your little sister. It's still early.” You wanted to smile and help Armando feel better.

“Good point.” Aretas dialed that phone number to signal another video chat.

Once the police department grounded this new case, time would scramble again.

“We're busy with another case, but I just wanted to say good morning.” Armando greeted Christine Lowrey.

“Good morning.” Christine answered at home.

“Hey,” Aretas said.

“Dough!” Soon, cooing echoed from the phone when Christine held Armando's little sister sister “Princess.”

“I'm right here, sorry.” Armando frowned during the call.

“I'll find pictures of you and hang them somewhere.” Christine told Aretas. “She couldn't sleep last night.”

“Sorry again. Hopefully today will look better. Take care.” Offering his slightly accented English again, Armando planned to say goodbye.

“Thank you for checking on us, Armando. Stay safe.” Christine smiled with “Princess” before ending this chat.

“I'll call Terry before we head out.” You unplugged your phone once that device charged on the kitchen counter.

Planning this next call, you listened for the ringing dials until Richmond answered:

“little sister Girl?” Revealing that deep voice, Terry slipped that nickname again.

“Oh, be careful. You're on speaker, T.” You almost laughed.

“Where are you?” Terry questioned more regardless of instructions.

“Armando's staying with me, but we're going back to the police department soon.” You didn't lie at all.

“Aight.” Somehow, Richmond's voice leveled further and further.

“We're leaving now, but I'll definitely keep you posted. Bye.” Speaking with Terry, you bid farewell and Armando prepared himself as the case resumed.

____

“Why did you do that?” Switching places, you turned in the passenger seat while Aretas drove your car.

“Do what?” Armando wouldn't make eye contact with you.

“Cooking breakfast shirtless like a movie.” You laughed once more.

“You didn't stop me.” Aretas clipped one response back.

“I'll never control anyone.” Nearly whispering, your voice offered this truth here.

Parking by the station, Armando reached one curb and cut that engine.

“Maybe I wanted you to notice.” Aretas didn't even flinch.

Before you could reply for once, Aretas opened the passenger seat door and your guided footsteps trailed him right into the department.

____

Once this team started hustling for the investigation, Armando wouldn't leave your side.

Even when Mike and Marcus interrogated your coworkers from the restaurant or questioned others, Aretas became even more protective.

“Dead ends. People we questioned today aren't adding up.” Mike struggled.

“What now?” You asked. “We can't stop working yet.”

“I'll pull more strings.” Mike cautioned. “Get some rest before y'all lose momentum.”

As Mike and Armando said goodbye, you waited by the entrance, holding your car keys.

Before long, Aretas drove once more as you rested in this passenger seat.

*******

Returning home, you showered upstairs and would dream as usual, but caught Armando standing in the hallway on your way to bed.

“Is everything all right?” You checked on him just in case.

“You're better than me ‘cause I can't sleep.” His voice rasped.

“What's wrong?” You questioned

“I don't know.” Aretas quietly struggled.

“You can always try. Wanna talk about it?” You wanted to help.

“No. I'd feel better if you sleep.” Armando leveled the response.

“Okay.” Trusting him, you couldn't argue and pointed backwards, heading to your room. “Good night.”

“Buenas noches.” Using his native language of Spanish, Armando offered ‘good night’ as well.

“Thank you for helping me.”Just before you closed the door, one phrase reached Aretas.

*******

On your way back to the police department, Terry called.

“Morning.” Richmond's deep voice answered soon enough.

“Good morning, T.” You just wanted to feel better now. “I connected Bluetooth in my car, so watch yourself.”

“Are you alone?” Terry snuck.

“No.” You lifted your brow. “Armando's driving.”

“I'm coming to the station.” Terry revealed this plan and your thoughts jumbled.

“Why?” You asked, puzzled.

“I'll explain soon.” Terry hung up before you could respond.

_______

“Someone in my apartment might be responsible for the drugs.” Terry offered brand-new information.

“What the hell?” Your eyes traded glances with Armando. Even Mike and Marcus looked flabbergasted.

“I left the building's fitness center and noticed this guy struggling with his bag.” Terry went on. ‘When I tried to help, he ran off.”

“Did you see anything in the bag?” You questioned.

“Uh, some items looked like silver holiday presents and boxes wrapped with red tags.” Terry explained the circumstances further.

“Heroin.” Lowering their voices, Mike and Marcus responded in unison.

Damn. You thought.

“It's ‘95 all over again.” Mike gritted. “Who the hell pushes heroin nowadays?”

“The drug of choice might help, but we'll see what happens.” Marcus said. “Terry, give us an ID for whoever you saw with that bag.”

“Yes, Sir.” Richmond nodded, staying back when more professionals entered this interrogation room.

______

Stepping toward the hallway, Mike joined you and Armando.

“How's Christine doing with Princess? Should I go back to the house?” Armando stood concerned as Christine watched his little sister sister alone.

“Don't worry. I'll check on them. Just stay with Rook. Can't have y'all scattered everywhere if somebody's responsible for the drugs.” Mike looked near Aretas and you once more.

As you plan to leave, that interrogation door opened and Terry stepped out with Marcus.

“We're getting close. Got a face, but Terry doesn't know his name yet. Our suspect stays private in the apartment building.” Marcus gestured around his expression.

“Just like the McGarth case.” Mike shook his head. “Ghosts stay quiet.”

“Yeah. It's early.” Marcus would ground the next plan. “Let's order some food and start hustling. There's just a matter of time before this fool realizes what's going on.”

_______

As nightfall crossed the Miami skyline in this precinct, time almost blurred throughout dark lights once maintenance turned down brightness.

“Wrap it up, Mike! Look at them.” Feeling tired, Marcus pointed as Lowrey faced everyone else.

Takeout boxes waited in corners and weapons expert Kelly grumbled near tech genius Dorn, exhausted. Captain Rita Secada left hours earlier.

On the other hand, you stopped reviewing details with Terry and charged your phone, unable to focus more. Even Armando shut down his laptop.

“Damn! Let's get out of here.” Noticing your watch, you gritted. “It's almost midnight.”

As if on cue, Terry and Armando stood to clean the area. Dorn ended work as Kelly gathered belongings.

“Follow us back to the house.” Armando rasped by Terry.

“All right.” Complying, Terry followed you and Armando out of the precinct without thinking twice.

*****

No shared meals together. No light-hearted conversations. Rest became the top priority for all three of you or burnout would hinder everything.

Sunlight greeted another morning in Florida as you woke up alone once more.

Exhaustion stood out even more because you don't actually remember walking upstairs last night. You'd fallen asleep on the living room sofa.

Maybe Armando helped out again, but who knows what could've taken place.

After getting ready as usual, you found Armando leaving one of the guest rooms.

“Hey. How'd you sleep?” On sight, Aretas paused and smiled in your direction.

“I slept well. Thanks.” You responded. “By the way, you're in a good mood.”

“Not running on empty and I feel better.” Armando said. “We've been trying to figure this out with no breaks.”

“Yeah.” Your thoughts agree. Time didn't even matter when cases began to lock down. “Staying back might help.”

Out of nowhere, his phone rang in one pocket and you watched curiously as Armando picked up.

“Hey. Hold up, what? Are you serious? Be right there. Thanks.” Aretas ended the conversation moments later.

“What happened?” You squinted, unable to even reach the kitchen for breakfast.

“Mike just called and the suspect turned himself in. C'mon.” You immediately followed Aretas and grabbed quick bites, almost ignoring Richmond downstairs.

“What the hell?” Terry squinted through countless feelings.

“Breakthrough with our case. We need to go.” You almost run toward the passenger seat of your car while Armando drives once more.

_______

“What's up?” Questioning Dorn, Armando stood by virtual screens from the department when that suspect offered his truth.

“Wow!” Dorn learned information right away, shocked. “Ready?”

“Go ahead.” You encouraged Dorn. Even Kelly waited in silence.

The suspect revealed his confession and Dorn almost immediately found this profile.

“Drug trafficking, identify fraud, bribery. The list goes on.” Dorn listed so many crimes.

Before you could pick up your jaw from the floor, sirens wailed again as different law enforcement officials escorted this random man to prison.

Red and blue overcasts would take over morning sunlight here.

“We got 'em.” Mike stepped forward alongside Marcus. “Our suspect moved into the apartment after Terry and no one questioned it.”

“What now?” You asked.

“I'll update Rita. Just head back until further notice.” Mike instructed. “We should open the city again soon.”

Learning drills like clockwork, you traveled home and waited, only needing one signal from Mike.

******

“Your neighbor hid so much corruption, but he's going to prison.” You explained what happened as Terry listened. “Discovering heroin in his bag opened the floodgates.”

“Damn. At least no one was killed, though.” Terry shook his head.

“Hopefully not.” You kept that response vague because the future could expose much more.

Exhausted despite the hour, you heated up leftovers and tried to settle down with lunch, but Mike called early.

“We'll open the city soon. Just stay back tonight, though. Bye, Rook.” Mike hung up as quickly as responding.

“Mike and Rita haven't opened the city yet.” You just looked toward that phone.

“We'll be fine.” Terry understood this point while safety meant everything.

“I'm taking a nap.” Armando excused himself from the kitchen table and headed upstairs, only watching you.

“Are you finished eating?” You stood and planned to clean up the kitchen, but Terry insisted on helping regardless.

“Yes, but don't worry. I got it.” Richmond gently stopped your hands from moving along.

“Are you sure?” You still questioned Terry just in case.

“Yes.” Terry nodded.

“I'll be upstairs.” You turned away from the kitchen and left, showering.

*****

Sometime later, you realized that Armando kept the guest room door open, but your fist knocked anyway.

Aretas began this video chat with Christine and made funny faces while noticing his little sister ‘Princess.’ Sweet laughter cackled right through.

“C'mere.” Aretas smiled toward you and welcomed an empty side of the bed.

“Hi!” You waved toward the phone.

“Hello.” Christine greeted your voice while carrying her daughter. “We're about to hang up, but Armando wanted to make her laugh before we stopped talking.”

“Have a good one.” Armando bid farewell one last time until the call ended.

“Feel better?” You looked out for Aretas and smiled.

“Just waiting to go home. I don't want ‘Princess' to think I'm gone.” He frowned regarding his little sister sister.

“You haven't left her behind.” Your words tried to help out. “We've been working.”

“Okay.” Aretas wouldn't debate this point further as sunset arrived in Miami.

Just before you'd leave to make dinner, Armando stood from the bed.

“Don't even worry about cooking dinner. I'll order food.” Aretas suggested.

“Thank you, but y'all won't let me do anything now.” You almost laughed this time. “Even Terry cleaned the kitchen.”

“Returning favors because you've helped us a lot.” Aretas spoke up once more.

“I appreciate it.” No matter what, you accepted the real compliment, leading Armando back downstairs.

_____

“When life settles back down, what should we do next?” Terry offered the question as everyone shared takeout that night.

“Beach? I haven't gone in a while.” You volley that idea right back.

“That sounds nice.” Terry nodded by you and still faced Armando for his opinion. “What do you think, man?”

“We'll see.” Aretas finished his meal. “I'll feel better when this case is closed.”

“Fair enough.” Richmond agreed.

*****

Law enforcement concluded the investigation while safety and brightness returned to Miami at last.

When time moved on again, you cleared this break, finally inviting Terry and Armando to the beach.

Driving, Armando rocked this tank top with matching shorts while another gold chain swung from his neck.

You joined the passenger seat once more, yet Terry waited back, intently dodging his earbuds this afternoon. Awareness would help so much.

Once you set up everything and sat with both men that day, peace arrived.

Taking off your coverup as heat sizzles, you revealed that bathing suit.

But when you turn around, Armando and Terry haven't moved from their chairs yet.

Oh, well.

Just as you walked along the shore, someone finally joined you here.

Terry is now shirtless while his service tattoos inked on display.

“Hi.” You've taken careful steps while addressing Terry.

“Hello.” Richmond stayed cordial.

“What's wrong, no nicknames?” You messed with him now.

“Can't.” Terry declined.

“Why?” Your eyes squinted as waves ebbed and flowed.

“Look behind you.” Terry glanced over his shoulder.

Sure enough, Armando trailed your own footsteps.

“I'll be right back.” Excusing yourself from Terry, you crossed paths with Armando.

____

“Hey.” His slightly accented English returned as you greeted each other.

“What's going on?” You questioned. “Terry might not feel comfortable.”

“Sorry, but can we talk about something?” Aretas moved closer.

“Yes. Are you all right?” The energy shifted this time around.

When he took your hand, Armando's brown eyes nearly locked you down.

“I miss you.” His words left your mind puzzled now.

“I'm right here.” You say, definitely confused at this point.

“Cariño…” Using his native language of Spanish, Armando called you “Sweetheart.”

“Yes?” You tried to ignore the nickname, but your heart jumped within.

“Don't know how to say this, but I….” Aretas quietly struggled.

“Take your time…” You still wanted Armando to express himself.

“I'm in love with you.” The leveled confession stopped your tracks.

Everything made sense this time.

Aretas nearly living in your house. Inviting you to the hospital when Christine gave birth to his little sister. Driving. Protective. Respectful. On and on.

“Armand…” As you shortened his name, the truth shook up countless emotions.

“It's okay. I'm good if you don't…” Armando stopped talking out of nowhere when another person reached the shore.

“Terry, what's wrong?” You stepped forward, genuinely concerned.

“We should go. It's important.” Richmond pointed back to the car.

“Oh, damn. All right.” You acknowledged your watch and returned by three chairs, gathering belongings to leave.

*******

“Speaking with Armando in private.” Terry explained the plan when all three of you came back to your home. “Don't worry.”

“Okay. Let me know if y'all need anything.” You nodded and tried to smile before heading upstairs.

______

“I've been holding my tongue. Really?” Terry crossed both arms while standing in the living room.

“What are you talking about?” Aretas didn't even know what to think.

“I don't want to lose my temper, but you know exactly what I'm saying.” Richmond arched his brow.

“Wait, hold up. Did you hear our conversation earlier?” Armando's thoughts jumbled.

“Everything.” Terry somehow lowered his deep voice even more.

“Look, I told the truth.” Aretas quietly defended himself. “It's better than nothing at all.”

“Always moving first.” Terry shook his head for a moment.

“You sound jealous, T.” Armando caught on right away.

“So what? Maybe I am.” Terry couldn't fight anymore.

“I've never seen you make a move.” Aretas scoffed back.

“Don't judge me for staying private.” Richmond kept speaking about you. “I've used nicknames with her, but my choices are none of your business.”

“She can make her own decisions, but I spoke up before you.” Thinking of your heart and ignoring Terry, Armando planned to cook instead.

_______

Tension almost burned this space from inside out when you reached that kitchen for dinner.

Armando and Terry sat across from each other once you joined this table.

“Hi.” You smiled with efforts to brighten their frowns.

“Hey.” Armando noticed you first. “There's another cookout tomorrow if you wanna go.”

“Cool.” You nodded and even mentioned Armando's little sister. “Should we babysit Princess?”

“Help me find a picnic table near Mike and Christine or my sister will start crying.” Aretas knew better.

“Deal.” You laughed.

Terry stayed quiet as you began to ramble, excited for this upcoming event.

_______

Later that night, you planned to sleep, but someone knocked on your bedroom door.

Before long, you opened up to see Armando standing in the hallway.

“Hi.” You gently answered. “Are you out of toothpaste or something?”

“No.” Aretas chuckled. “I can't sleep.”

“Nightmares?” You stepped closer.

“No.” Armando repeated himself at first. “Just…I can't stop thinkin’ about you.”

Armand….” You struggled with his name once more, nervous as invisible butterflies rattled

“I know…” Aretas would leave right now if you wanted.

Fed up with your own confusion, you moved near Armando until each stance met.

Moonlit shadows captured the bedroom as you stood nose to nose.

“Don't break my heart.” Your voice trembled beyond words.

“Never.” One promise grounded the truth as his lips met yours for the very first time.

Stepping back, air quivered as you both realized what just happened.

“Too much? You wondered, checking on Armando first.

“No. Want me to stop?” His accented English only shook more.

“No.” You offered absolute consent and reached his chain, giving Aretas more kisses.

Hazed by rising chemistry, you undressed one another while Armando's desperate lips greeted your neck.

Tangled on this bed, his body shadowed yours as each kiss deepened and senses woke up.

“Condom?” Armando nearly whispered just in case.

“Nightstand.” You guided his path and he reluctantly turned away for protection, just hoping to worship your shape.

From his perspective, you looked so good at the beach earlier, walking along that shore in this remarkable bathing suit.

“We don't have to do anything.” Glancing down, Aretas held the condom between his fingers.

“I want this to happen.” You promised, kissing him just before time moved again.

“Me too.” Locking eyes with you, Aretas opened the piece and bit his lip, slyly noticing how our legs wrapped around his waist.

Bliss only heightened when Armando lined up with your entrance and just waited for permission.

“Please…” Your whimpering voice searched for his presence.

“I'll count. Look at me.” Caressing your face, Armando wanted to make you feel good. “3, 2, 1…”

“Fuck!” Safely buried inside, Aretas held back grateful shock while you clenched around him and gasped from

“Does it hurt?” His rasping tone offered the question while dangerous hips started thrusting.

“No.” You just couldn't help pleading over and over again. “Keep going!”

“What? I can't hear you.” Once Armando chuckled for a moment, his ego spanned outward.

“Baby…” As one nickname slipped from your trembles, no one else mattered right now. “Don't stop.”

Encouraged by the sounds of your desperate voice, Armando only switched positions and your own body mounted him, still not able to cum yet.

“Look at me!” He gritted right back, prompting your eyes to move down once more. “I love you so much.”

“I know…” Bracing his chest with your palms, you anchored with efforts to keep this future climax settled.

One coil found within your stomach unraveled before time could even help.

Soon, you warmed the condom, involuntarily weeping as kisses returned.

Aretas doesn't pull out right away, smiling against your lips and calming down.

“Ready for tomorrow?” This man teased you while still acting up.

“Have som common sense.” Once Armando pulled out, you nearly giggled before leaving him to shower alone.

******

By morning, you tangled once more when Armando set his face between your thighs, softly guiding his beard along.

Just when you'd climb another mountain, his phone started buzzing on the nightstand.

Half-dressed, you casted both eyes toward the ceiling and lose momentum, but sit down to watch Armando use this phone.

“Text messages.” Aretas gestured by the screen, but you don't even care, kissing him to make up.

Fuck! Armando realizes.

Terry has been pinging different notifications since last night.

Given no other choice, you both pulled yourselves together and headed downstairs, facing Richmond.

______

“Hold on, I need a minute with him.” No longer holding back, Terry stepped forward to acknowledge you and Armando.

“No chance. Don't fight in my house.” You refuse to walk away. “Speak in front of me this time.”

“Fair enough.” Terry remained cordial and understood your point. Drama kept no place here.

“We're together now. Either respect it or get out of the way.” Aretas defended your bond.

“Did you even want her before?” Richmond wanted to know everything.

“I love her.” Armando protected you now. “Matter of fact, who took care of everything once she left that hospital? Me, not you.”

“Don't blame shit.” Terry remembered when this bullet almost killed you. “We brought her to the emergency room.”

“You ghosted us.” Armando lifted his cell phone to make this point. “Be thankful she even tolerates you now. ”

“Why did you leave like that?” Looking at Terry, you intervened for once.

“Mama…” Richmond failed to bring up sweetness with nicknames

“Answer my question.” You put your foot down. “If you care about me so much, why leave at all?”

Terry admitted more. “You survived, but everyone else helped out before I could move forward.”

“AMMO is like my family.” Your voice kept responding. “You can't take charge just because we know each other.”

“But he can?” Terry then squinted regarding Armando.

“Drop the conversation already.” You can't bicker anymore. “We have plans today, so please stop arguing.”

******

“Hi!” Florida sunlight welcomed the park once more as you joined those picnic tables.

When Armando's little sister woke up, she cooed, opening small to greet Aretas.

“Aw, wow!” Everyone noticed when the infant dropped her head onto Armando's shoulder.

“Miss me, huh?” Armando grinned toward this child and your feelings jumped again.

Terry debated his exit when you held Armando's hand and beamed around your friends, happy to be alive.

I lost you. Richmond's heart would break for good.

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