#warning: bad language

[redisrobinhearts]

TW EATING DISORDERS!! weight, numbers, anorexia

It was never about control, not really. Not the kind the media would suggest, not the way those tired, melodramatic movies tried to frame it. They always got it wrong, anyway. They called it a cry for attention, a plea for control, a side effect of perfectionism. But Tim didn’t want control.

If you asked him, really asked him, he wouldn’t be able to tell you what he wanted. Maybe that was the point.

He didn’t want to feel powerful. He wanted to feel nothing.

And so he chased emptiness like it was salvation.

Hunger wasn’t suffering. It was purity. It was silence. It was the loudest scream of existence he could offer to a world that wouldn’t stop looking at him.

He was addicted to the feeling. To the dull, knifing pangs in his gut. To the dizzy haze behind his eyes, the slow fade of vision when he stood too quickly.

It wasn’t control.

It was surrender.

Every morning he’d wake up, his room a mess and every morning followed the same rhythm, a ritual practiced so often it had long since ceased to feel like a choice.

Wake.

Drag himself out of bed, each joint stiff, each movement an effort.

Stretch. What if his limbs had thickened in the night?

Bathroom. Strip. Use the toilet.

Step onto the scale.

Wait.

Step off. Pace in tight, restless circles.

Step back on the scale.

Compare. Judge. Repeat.

Redress.

Go downstairs.

Smile.

A daily devotion.

Each time he’d glance to his rosary hung lovingly next to his mother’s, send a small prayer that the number on the scale wouldn’t ruin his day.

Because that’s what his days were based on.

Numbers.

That number on the scale was the first and most important verdict of the day.

If it went up? The day was ruined.

If it dropped? A good day. A small victory.

If he binged? Complicated. A good number could soften the blow. But if he binged and the number went up?

He didn’t have words for the way his chest would compress, his head would ring, his body would buzz with hatred.

It was as simple as that.

He couldn’t purge, not anymore at least. His gag reflex was gone, whisked away from years of fingers stuffed down his throat whilst he hunched over a pristine toilet seat.

Despite this, the schedule never changed. The ritual, never changed. He was fully aware it wasn’t normal, but it was necessary, sacred.

Looking at the sweet, expensive rosaries hung on his wall, he thought about if God was needed for his own little shrine of numbers.

But he knew God, or any, wasn’t needed to build a shrine, his existence was a monument to numbers.

In place of mass or communion he’d go downstairs, family already awake. He’d smile at Alfred and playfully roll his eyes at the man’s tutting to his habit of drinking so much diet soda while his first move in the kitchen was to retrieve a Pepsi max.

“Alfred, you know eating when I wake up makes me feel sick.”

It didn’t, but that same line was said every day. Like a prayer.

Damian, always around, would roll his eyes and comment about how unhealthy diet sodas were. Tim almost envied his younger brother, as tall - maybe even taller, than himself and only 14. Tim was 17. Bruce said he’d grow more, Tim knew he wouldn’t.

Tim knew his family knew there was something wrong with him. Tim knew they thought it was PTSD. Well.. he has PTSD, but, that wasn’t what was wrong with him.

He wouldn’t speak it out loud, never, though it had a name. A clinical one. It didn’t fit with a detective, the genius, a bat. Anorexic.

The word felt foreign, medical, clinical. But it was the truth. A truth that lived in his bloodstream, behind his ribs, inside the hollowness he carved into himself each day.

It’s weird to think, that he has this disorder, but he won’t speak of it to anyone. It’s weird that a family of detectives don’t recognise it. But, if Tim can lie to Batman, he can lie to anyone. And lie he will. 

Tim loves his little brother. And even if Damian shows it in this weird way, he knows Damian loves him too. It’s the cups of tea Damian brings him, it’s the attacks that are never to kill anymore - just to test his strength. Tim saves his strength for those, he knows it’s mostly Damian reassuring himself that his older brother is safe. That he can take care of himself.

He knows all of his siblings love him. He knows his whole family loves him.

It’s the way dick will always return home with a soft smile and warm eyes for him, ignoring the deep cutting insults, accusations and whatever else Tim had screamed at him the last time he was there. The way he’d ignore the next ones Tim would throw his way.

It’s the way Jason would tease him, the way he’d always bring a bit extra food for him. The way Jason would get him things related to his special interests. The way he’d pick up evidence for Tim, the way he’d place bugs and interrogate for him.

It’s the way Cassandra would step a bit louder when approaching him. It’s the way Cass would ask if he’d like to join her on walks. it’s the way Cass would sincerely ask about his special interests. The way Cass would happily listen to him for hours.

Tim knew his family loved him. Tim knew Bruce loved him. He knew his dad loved him.

It’s the way Bruce would stockpile Tim’s favourite (safe) foods and wouldn’t ask Alfred to get them. It’s the way he’d indulge Tim and let him sleep in the bed with him on bad nights. It’s the way he learned about Catholicism despite being non practicing Jewish. It’s the way he had a Catholic Church built in Gotham in Tim’s mother’s name. Tim never asked for it, but the gesture carved something sharp and sacred into his heart.

Alfred loved him. The closest he’d ever had as a grandfather. Alfred loved him. It’s the way Alfred wouldn’t clean or enter Tim’s room when Tim had asked. It’s the way Alfred would cook entirely separate things for him. It’s the way Alfred would sometimes not cook for Tim at all and allow Tim to make his own meals. It’s the way he never really stopped Tim from drinking diet soda or energy drinks.

His family loved him. They loved him with all of their hearts. But they never figured it out.

How could they have? Tim went through a lot of effort hiding it. He certainly didn’t want them to.

It was back to his bedroom for him, to sit at his desk and browse edtumblr or edtwt or any forum that fit his fancy.

“Would you like to walk through the gardens with me?”

Cass’ voice was soft. It was kind. It was sweet. She would always ask even though every time Tim would say no.

Each time she would smile, nod and tell him he can join her later if he wants.

He never would.

He’d spend the next few hours browsing, sipping from his rapidly going flat Pepsi max. His stomach clawing and consuming the carbonated fluid while it screamed for nutrients that it wasn’t sure it would get that day.

The hunger. This was how he worshipped nothingness. The gnawing feeling like his stomach was trying to digest itself. The pain. A penance indistinguishable from divine grace.

Tim knew he was pretty at least, if the media were telling the truth he was gorgeous. Likely to be named the most attractive man in Gotham to dick’s disappointment and Jason’s amusement.

He knew people thought he was beautiful. The magazines said so. The tabloids. The comments.

But Tim didn’t think he was pretty in the way he did.

He would stand in the mirror, minutes on minutes. The dark circles, sunken eyes, pointy hip bones, exposed ribs, concave stomach, air between his thighs. His image in the reflection is a reflection of the discipline he’d exuded. The pain a graceful reward for the numbers he’d sacrificed for divinity.

In the mirror, he saw bones. Sharp hips. Ribs like piano keys. A stomach sunken beneath skin that barely held shape.

Each pang of hunger was akin to a code, etching words beneath his ribs: Beauty. Divinity. Grace. Each pulse of hunger a compliment to the cavernous void of where his stomach resided.

His body akin to a temple, he wondered if it were a sort of blasphemy each time he bowed his head. Praying to God for lower numbers felt more like he prayed to the numbers for less, more divinity, the weightlessness would bring him closer to heaven, to God.

While floating in divinity, he floated closer to death.

Like when a morbidly obese bed ridden person continues to eat, they inch closer to death but don’t even realise they’re doing so.

He wasn’t even skinny he’d claim when reading about the dangers. He was smart, he took his vitamins and sure he was underweight but it was hardly skin and bones.

At 5’6” and 99 pounds, he told himself he wasn’t that bad. Not sick enough. Not thin enough. Not dying.

He was careful. Obsessively so. Ankle weights hidden beneath baggy sweats for monthly health check-ups. Protein water before blood draws. Vitamins taken religiously. The illusion of health preserved with surgical precision.

It took him to a swift bmi 16 to a bmi 20.3, Bruce didn’t suspect a thing.

It happened each month and like clock work he would apply the same methods to ensure his safety.

He’d say he wasn’t dying. But he was wrong.

Each day was built around numbers: grams, pounds, calories, steps. Each hour sectioned by rules only he knew. If the number was right, the day was blessed. If it was wrong, the day was punishment.

He lived in a shrine of numbers. His body, the altar. His rituals, prayers. His pain, penance.

Sometimes, in moments of clarity—or maybe just exhaustion—he wondered what he was worshipping. Was it God? Was it perfection? Emptiness? Was it the void itself?

Was he offering his body to a deity that didn’t exist?

He didn’t know.

He only knew that hunger felt like grace.

That the ache in his stomach was the only thing he could trust.

That the hollowness made him feel holy.

He wasn’t suicidal. He didn’t want to die. He just didn’t realize he was dying. But death took the form of a beatific void, inching closer with each number.

Not actively. Not with intent. But slowly. Quietly. Faithfully. Like a monk fasting for salvation that would never come.

Because you cannot eat beauty with a spoon. And you cannot fill a body that’s learned to worship its own starvation.

But the beauty he chased wasn’t for them. It was a private religion, one only he understood.

In the stillness of his room, surrounded by the glow of a laptop screen and forums filled with others like him—edtumblr, edtwt, anonymous boards full of hunger—he felt less alone. But never whole.

Each day he had a schedule.

Each day began with a number, each day was built from continuing numbers. These numbers symbolised who he was. His worth. His divinity.

It has nothing to do with controlling himself. For he could do just that. It was a matter of it controlling him.

Each day it had a schedule.

But for now, in this sole moment, there was the pain.

There were the numbers.

There was the shrine.

And he would keep worshipping.

[darthkote]

You can read my soft!Crosshair x reader fic here.

I bury my stomach beneath the floor boards

Rating: Explicit, Words: 12,070

Before saying anything, he rests his hand on your knee; it's gentle and comforting, and you don't think before leaning into it. The heat of his palm over your joint reminds you to breathe - a slow exhale through your nose lets him know to continue. "You're warm. Wanna go get cleaned up?" His thumb caresses you through the fabric of your clothes, sending chills throughout your body. You squirm before forcing your eyes open, meeting his sweet brown ones for a moment before looking down at where he touches you. You appreciate his attentiveness.

You let your fingers trace his knuckles and nod, "Please."

[call-me-cosmic]

“Th’ names Blitz, the O is silent.”

I just started watching Helluva Boss and I had to try my hand at drawing Blitzø’s human design. I feel like it fits him

[mvsic0]

did the new mh episode imply that toralei has the possibility of liking men….?

Ban g3 /j

[fragrantpines]

I have a lot mixed feelings about the second part of the event.

[portuguesedisaster]

Gotta fucking love Fertagus.

[betmagic]

Okay so I haven’t posted anything before ( I mainly joined tumblr/ various other social medias/ so it would stop asking me to join/ sign in all the time ) being more of a follower than actual posting stuff . but I recently got into making tons of headcanons and au s that are taking up space in my head and in my notes, yes notes though they’re more like mini incomplete fanfics at this point, any way I finally decided to share them.

Im not expecting anyone to actually see them and there are a lot from a bunch of different fandoms so I’ll just be posting whatever I’ve been hyper fixating on recently

[violetmuses]

Special Occasion - A. Aretas (Part II) ❤️‍🩹

Title: Special Occasion - A. Aretas (Part II) ❤️‍🩹

Fandom: “Bad Boys” Film Universe

Character: Armando Aretas

Pairing: Armando Aretas + Female Reader

Main Storyline: You capture Armando's interest one night. @nelo0wesker

====

2024

Intelligence whispered that late Miami Police Captain Howard muddled with the cartel for years, but Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett would prove Cap’s innocence. Justice waited on several lines.

Three men joined this nightclub located downtown while the incident pulled headlines everywhere, on the run as fugitives.

“Wait a minute. Did Armando fuck one of the bartenders?” Detective Marcus Burnett questioned criminal Armando Aretas.

“What the hell is wrong with you, man? That's actually none of your business.” Grilling Marcus for obvious reasons, Detective Mike Lowrey stood as Armando's biological father.

“Listen, Mike.” Marcus spoke with his longtime partner once more. “If Armando's the only person that can tell us who framed Cap, I should know whether or not he's a pimp or something. Look!”

Perched across the space, you're reunited with Armando Aretas and he's whispering, making you laugh for the first time in years. He's back.

Wearing this Bud Light shirt, Armando chose one trucker hat, which veiled brown eyes. Dirty jeans covered both legs this time around and boots stepped along.

“He's networking. She's an informant now.” Mike continued defending the chemistry between you and Armando. Shadows lined up and you refused to walk away.

“Networking stopped five minutes ago. Now, he's sprung.” Marcus chuckled.

“Leave them alone.” Mike quickly warned his partner again.

_______

“Bye…” You planned to say goodbye after giving Aretas three new phones, but he stepped closer and smiled against your lips, finally kissing you.

“That was nice, but please take a shower.” You ran your fingers along his chin and noticed the slight beard.

“Only if you join me first.” Armando flirted, scoping your body up and down.

“Hurry up and get out of here.” You stopped playing around. “There's a bounty looming on your head.”

Armando left, but not without slapping your ass to exit.

[friendrat]

This needs to be an anime. One of the ones with an obnoxiously long title that over explains the entire premise of the show. It could be... That Time I Fell in Love with My Food Because it Tasted Bad.

but what if a vampire drank the blood of someone who was anemic like would they be seriously grossed out

“what the fuck is this”

“i have anemia”

“can you take something for that you should probably take something for that this shit is nasty to drink let alone have running through your body i’m setting up a doctor’s appointment for you”

[shiny-heart-tree]

Dude I thought Tumblr was gonna be the only normal-ish place where I can look up art of Poppy and see some cool stuff and memes and cringe at "starter bad" jokes.

Today I find a blog using the "poppy dandys world" tag, scroll through their blog for a couple minutes, and now I have a fucking bad taste in my mouth.

Spoilers, proships allowed there along with other stuff that just made me feel gross.

Lemme fucking turn into a villager in Minecraft please-

[krystaldeath]

It’s 1am I’m gonna let y’all in on a little secret: Quite a few ocs of mine started as my main oc verse self insert going Through It™️. Some were “disguises” that I decided to turn into actual people. Some were “curses”. Some were just simply random personalities my self insert would perform for multiple reasons (Amnesia and/or they were told to act that way).

Saying this bc I am thinking up yet another oc but they might end up being part of something separate from my main oc verse

[teaboot]

Mean things I can’t tell my least-favourite coworker cause it would be hurtful and I’d feel bad

Sometimes the things you get worked up and angry about are so utterly inconsequential that they make me imagine a time before written language where I may have been carried off and eaten by leopards as a small child, and I feel a kind of strange longing

Do you ever want more from life or is this genuinely it for you

You give off the perpetual aura of a distant relative’s small and untrained dog which may either let you pet it or suddenly maul you with little to no warning at the drop of a hat and because of this whenever I see you nearby I can feel my asscheeks clench so if you could maybe wear a hat or vest of some kind to indicate whether or not you are in a bad mood I would greatly appreciate it

I have difficulty imagining you as a child. You are entirely without wonder or whimsy. I imagine you once broke off as a slab of granite from the side of a mountain and slid into an employment office where you remained for years until someone dressed you in a uniform as a joke and brought you to life exactly as you are like an irritable corporate Frosty the Snowman

My determination to treat others with kindness confronted with your determination to see only the worst in all my actions constantly forces me to reevaluate my moral principals in a way that is much like a crisis of religious faith, as though your existence were a tangible proof that God was never real

I cannot imagine that you are happy the way that you are. I want to believe that you are, but all evidence available indicates otherwise. Are you like this because you are suffering, or are you suffering because you are like this

Do you ever wonder about life beyond our constructed social prison. Do you ever find yourself gazing skyward in the rain. Have you ever felt tempted to get off the bus in the middle of nowhere on your way to work just to see what happens

I am glad that you are older than me because I think that if I wait long enough you may retire so I no longer have to work with you without something terrible happening to either of us

Do you ever think about how you’re gonna die someday or do you just perpetually live in the precise moment wherein whatever obstacle in front of you is at once both entirely novel and the most infuriating thing in all of existence, like a baby with no object permanence trapped in a revolving door

I’m going to be near you for the minimal amount of time required to accomplish this one task and if you could just pretend I don’t exist for that duration I think we’d both prefer that

[ghostjelliess]

I don't think I've ever experienced anything closer to a stroke than trying to read "neo-seoul" Hangul in an ai-generated artwork as a [dyslexic] intermediate foreign language learner of Korean. That shit had me like: 🤨🤔🤯😒😒😒😒🙄😮‍💨

[literaryvein-reblogs]

words for when your characters ______

Agree

accede, acceptance, accord, acknowledgment, acquiescence, align, avowal, bear, cohere, compromise, consent, contract, draft, enlist, give in/give up, go along/go along with, grant, negotiate, unanimous, yield

Deny

abjure, abuse, affront, attack, backstab, bad-mouth, belie, blacken, blemish, confront, curse, darn, defamation, defile, demur, denigrate, detract, dig, disclaim, discountenance, disgrace, disown, disparagement, downplay, explode, flout, fulminate, gainsay, gird, invective, jeer, lament, lecture, malign, minimize, mouth, needle, oppose, protest, put down, put-down, rebuff, refute, remonstrate, renunciation, run down, satirize, scold, show up, sit-in, slander, smear, snap, snub, squeal, sully, swearing, taunt, tirade, turn, underestimate, vituperation, write off, yammer

Explain

account for, admit, apprise, cite, clarify, come clean, concede, confirm, corroborate, defense, demonstrate, dilate, elucidate, enlighten, evidence, expand, explicate, gloss, illustrate, itemize, let on, palliate, plea, prove, recite, simplify, speak out/speak up, spell out, translator, warrant

Fabricate

aspersion, belie, disprove, profane

Inform

acknowledge, address, advertise, allow, allusion, apprise, bare, betrayal, blab, breathe, briefing, broadcast, chronicle, clue, come out with, confession, convey, debunk, define, detail, dictate, divulge, expose, feature, furnish, give, gossip, hint, intimate, issue, lecture, newscaster, orate, out of the closet, pass, post, proclaim, promulgate, publication, publish, release, reveal, show up, speak, spill, squeal, talk, tip, uncover, unveil, weatherperson, whisper

Instruct

bar, educate, prescribe

Persuade

advance, argument, bend, budge, carry, coerce, convince, discourage, draw, drum up, elicit, entice, forward, goad, hammer away/hammer into, induce, influence, invite, lobby, motivate, negotiation, pitch, prevail upon/prevail on, prompt, reason, spur, sway, urge, win/win over

Promise

assurance, avow, commitment, ensure, go back/go back on, oath, portend, vouch, warrant, word

Suggest

advice, advocate, ask, come up with, connote, drum into, exhort, fish for, get at, guide, imply, insinuate, moralize, move, nomination, pontificate, preach, propose, recommend, urge

Praise

accent, acclamation, accredit, adulation, apotheosis, applause, benediction, bless, champion, citation, commend, compliment, congratulations, credit, dedicate, deify, elevate, endorse, eulogize, exalt, extol, flatter, flattery, glorify, homage, laud, lionize, obsequy, plaudits, puff, salute, thanks, tribute, worship

Warn

admonish, alert, caution, caveat, defy, enjoin, exhortation, foreboding, foretell, page, remind, warning

NOTE

The above are concepts classified according to subject and usage. It not only helps writers and thinkers to organize their ideas but leads them from those very ideas to the words that can best express them.

It was, in part, created to turn an idea into a specific word. By linking together the main entries that share similar concepts, the index makes possible creative semantic connections between words in our language, stimulating thought and broadening vocabulary. Writing Resources PDFs

Source ⚜ Writing Basics & Refreshers ⚜ On Vocabulary

[hedge-rambles]

#I just reread Nona and it truly is not even subtext at this point

Yeah I mean like...Nona, who can read people's thoughts and feelings takes one look at them and goes "oh that's her romantic partner :) "

the tridentarii

[violetmuses]

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.