mrscmobsession

[mrscmobsession]

The breakthrough came on a Thursday.

Clair had spent most of the morning in the lab, sitting at the computer, scanning photos, DNA reports, and timelines, her feet propped on a stool because her back had started aching more over the last week. At 25 weeks, her belly was unmistakable now—firm, rounded, and always shifting with the small, sudden thumps of the baby inside.

Ray had brought her breakfast that morning, balancing her favorite bagel and an iced tea in one hand while pressing a kiss to her temple. “Eat. Rest. Let the rookies get their hands dirty.”

She tried to smile, but it wasn’t enough. She missed the field—the hum of the crime scene, the tension of discovery, the adrenaline of chasing a truth no one else could see. She was still Clair, but in small moments, she felt more like a shell of her old self, watching instead of doing.

Then the evidence popped.

A single fiber from the newest crime scene—a match. Not just any match. A direct link to a suspect they'd been chasing for months. The Dick and Jane killer. The one who hunted couples, posed them like twisted storybook characters. Clair felt the shift like lightning in her chest.

Greg stood behind her, reading over her shoulder. “Is that—?”

She didn’t wait to answer. She was already grabbing her phone, calling Catherine, calling Sera, calling anyone who could move fast. Ray had just walked in from grabbing lunch when she told him.

“I need to go,” she said, already half out of her seat. “We found him.”

Ray’s eyes narrowed. “We? Baby, you’re not going out there.”

“Yes. I am.”

She said it with her whole chest—no wavering, no softness. “I’ve spent weeks in this damn building. I’ve done everything I can from behind glass and screens. But this—this is our shot. I know his pattern, I know what he’ll do next, and I am going.”

Nick entered the room just in time to hear it. His face was unreadable. A wall she’d seen him throw up in every interrogation room.

“Clair…” he said carefully.

“No,” she interrupted. “Don’t talk to me like I’m made of glass. I am pregnant, not broken. I am not going to put our baby in harm’s way—but I’m not going to sit this out either. You trust me? Then trust that I know my limits.”

They didn’t answer right away. The silence ached. Ray looked between her and Nick, his jaw clenched like he was biting back a thousand arguments. Then he sighed. “We’re not letting you go alone.”

She gave a small nod. “Good. Because I wasn’t asking.”

Being back on scene was… hard.

Everything had changed. Squatting to examine evidence pulled on her back. Bending to photograph footprints made her dizzy. Even her boots felt tighter now. She was slower, more cautious—and hated every second of it.

But then a child’s toy—half buried in sand beneath a swing set—revealed a hidden camera. And Clair’s instincts lit up again. She pointed. “There. That’s what we missed last time.”

It was worth it. Every ache. Every doubt. Her voice still carried power. Her eyes still caught what others missed.

Back at the lab that night, she pulled her sweater tighter over her bump and leaned into the gentle curve of Ray’s chest as he stood behind her. Nick was across the table, running prints, but his eyes kept flicking up to her every few seconds.

She knew they worried. They always would.

But when the case finally cracked—when they caught the man who’d stolen sleep and sanity from too many nights—Clair stood there, evidence bag in hand, with tears in her eyes.

Because she wasn’t just doing it for justice anymore.

She was doing it for the life growing inside her.

For the little one kicking with every heartbeat, reminding her that strength didn’t mean doing everything alone. It meant doing everything with love.

[mrscmobsession]

Eighteen Weeks

Clair could feel the baby move now. Just little flutters, like the brush of a feather from inside, barely there��but enough to make her stop and smile in the middle of even the most gruesome scenes. It was like a secret, just between her and the little life growing quietly inside her.

She hadn’t told the team how far along she was—only that she was pregnant. Sera knew, of course. Nick and Ray knew every inch of it. But 18 weeks felt more real than she’d expected. More... fragile. Especially today.

The sun beat down hard on the front yard of a quiet, upper-class home where a double homicide had just shattered the illusion of peace. Clair had been out in it for hours, moving slow, methodical. But something was off. Her skin felt clammy under her vest. Her hands were trembling slightly, and the heat curled around her head like cotton. She squinted at her notes, then blinked again when they blurred.

“You okay?” Greg asked as they made their way to the van, his brow furrowed.

“Yeah. Just—” Her voice cracked in her throat. She pressed her hand against her belly. “Just a little tired, I think.”

Greg paused. He tilted his head slightly, studying her face. “You don’t look tired. You look like you’re about to—”

Her knees buckled.

“Clair!” he yelled, lunging forward.

She didn’t fall hard—he caught her arm, eased her down—but by the time she was on the grass, her face had gone pale and a cold sweat clung to her neck. Her breath came in shallow pants.

“Hey, hey—stay with me,” Greg said, pulling his phone out. “I need an ambulance at the scene. Now.”

When Ray got the call, he didn’t even remember hanging up the phone. He just ran. The ambulance had already pulled in when he arrived, lights flashing like they were mocking him. And there she was—his Clair—sitting on the back bumper of the rig, legs dangling like a kid too small for the seat. An EMT knelt in front of her, wrapping a cuff around her arm.

“I’m fine,” she was saying, brushing off their hands. “My blood sugar just dropped. I forgot to eat after breakfast, and—”

“Clair.” Ray’s voice cut through everything.

She looked up at him, and something in his chest cracked wide open. She was pale, but she managed a small smile.

“I’m okay,” she whispered.

The EMT finished taking her blood pressure and frowned. “Your sugar might’ve caused the collapse, but your BP’s too high. That’s not something we ignore—not at 18 weeks.”

She flinched, glancing at Ray. He was already climbing into the ambulance before anyone could ask who was riding along.

He sat beside her on the bench, his fists clenched on his knees. The siren wasn’t even on, but the noise inside the vehicle was deafening. Machines. Breathing. Every bump in the road.

“I’m okay,” she said again, quieter this time.

“You shouldn’t be in this damn gurney,” Ray murmured, voice rough.

She reached out and laced her fingers through his. “I’m not broken.”

“I know,” he said. But his eyes never left her. “I just—I can’t see you like this. Not you and the baby. I can’t lose either of you.”

They kept her overnight.

It was supposed to be precautionary, just a quiet room and monitors tracking her vitals, but the stillness of the hospital walls made everything feel more serious. Ray stayed with her that night, in the room’s corner chair, barely sleeping. Nick joined them later, bringing fresh clothes and silent comfort.

The next morning, the doctor came in with a quiet firmness that left no room for debate.

“You’re doing too much, Clair. No more field work. No more long hours on your feet. The stress is catching up with you—and it’s catching up with the baby, too.”

She nodded, biting the inside of her cheek to keep from crying.

The next few days felt like a punishment.

She stayed mostly in the lab, analyzing prints and photos. Catherine tried to make it feel normal, and Sera kept her company, but Clair hated the feeling of being penned in. She wasn’t fragile. She wasn’t helpless. But everyone treated her like she was.

By day five, she was pacing, muttering under her breath. By day seven, she stood in the hallway with her hands on her hips and blurted out to Nick and Ray, “I feel like freaking Rapunzel.”

Ray chuckled softly and leaned against the wall. “Didn’t she have a window?”

“I have a window,” Clair snapped. “I want a crime scene.”

Nick lifted a brow. “Crime scenes don’t usually come with prenatal vitamins and air conditioning.”

“I’d settle for a bad coffee and a grumpy uniform.”

Ray reached for her hand and squeezed it. “We’re just trying to keep you safe.”

“I know,” she whispered. Then she looked down at her belly, her hand brushing over the curve of it. “But I don’t want to lose who I am in the process.”

Ray stepped closer. “You’re not. You’re growing.”

Clair met his eyes, softer now. “That doesn’t make it easier.”

Nick leaned over and kissed her temple. “It’s not supposed to be easy. It’s supposed to be worth it.”

And even through the frustration and confinement, the longing to be out in the field again, Clair knew they were right.

But still—every day she looked at the lab walls and thought, One more day, and I’ll break through the glass.

She just didn’t know how soon that crack would come.

[mrscmobsession]

The Baby Bump Becomes Noticeable

The warehouse was cold, filled with shadows and the dull hum of fluorescent lights overhead. Clair crouched beside the outline of the body, her gloved fingers ghosting over a shell casing. She’d done this a hundred times before—cataloging evidence, focusing, staying sharp—but this time… it felt different.

As she leaned forward to grab a marker from her kit, a jolt of pressure pulled deep in her core. It wasn't pain exactly, just enough to make her pause. Her hand instinctively pressed against the gentle curve of her lower belly—so small still, but present, undeniable.

She closed her eyes and breathed out slowly.

“Jeez, Clair,” Greg’s voice cut through the quiet. “You been hitting the donuts hard?”

She flinched, just slightly.

He was joking. That kind of Greg joke. But his words hung in the air too long, like they’d echoed off something deeper. The silence that followed said everything. Sera, crouched nearby, froze. Her eyes flicked to Clair’s stomach—really looked.

She didn’t say anything, just reached out and gently nudged Greg with her elbow, hard enough to shut him up. When he looked at her, confused, Sera gave a soft, slow shake of her head and then turned back to Clair. Her gaze softened.

Clair’s heart pounded against her ribs.

She straightened slowly, standing up with more care than she meant to show. The stiffness in her back, the tightness in her hips—there was no hiding that today. She folded her arms over her chest, pulling her jacket tighter, like that would somehow erase what had just shifted between them.

Sera gave her the smallest nod, not pressing, not asking. Just... seeing her.

Greg’s voice was quieter now. “Wait... are you...? I mean—is it...?”

Clair nodded once. It was all she could manage.

She didn’t miss the way Greg’s whole expression changed—like someone had smacked him with the weight of reality. His face fell, guilt washing over his features.

“Clair, I didn’t—I wouldn’t have joked if I’d known. I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay,” she said, though it wasn’t, not really. “I was gonna tell you all soon.”

That wasn’t a lie. Just... not now. Not like this.

Back at the lab, the news moved faster than she could walk. A coffee cup with “decaf” scribbled across it showed up on her desk. Then crackers. A blanket someone left draped over the back of her chair. No names. Just quiet gestures.

Catherine came by mid-afternoon and asked if they could chat. They walked into one of the interview rooms, and Catherine shut the door.

“You’ve got a team that cares about you,” she said gently. “But that means they’ll be watching. Closely.”

Clair folded her arms again, feeling the weight of it all pressing down. “I’m still me. I can still do the work.”

“No one’s saying you can’t,” Catherine replied. “But you’re not just you anymore. And that’s okay. It’s just... different.”

Clair bit the inside of her cheek, feeling her eyes sting. She hated this. Hated being seen like she might break. Like she was fragile.

That night at home, she stood in front of the mirror in their shared bedroom, tugging her shirt up with trembling fingers. Her bump was still small, but it curved unmistakably now. The boys knew, of course. They’d known since the first scan. But the world knowing? That made it real.

Nick came up behind her, resting his chin on her shoulder. Ray stood in the doorway, his expression unreadable.

“They know,” she whispered. “I think everyone knows now.”

Nick's arms wrapped around her, firm and steady. “Good,” he murmured. “They should. This baby has the strongest mom I know.”

Ray crossed the room, brushing a hand across her side, then dropped to his knees and pressed a kiss to her belly. His voice was soft, reverent.

“They’ll know better than to get in your way, too.”

Clair smiled through the tears, nodding slowly. “Yeah. They will.”

But inside, she still wasn’t sure if she was ready—for the eyes, the questions, the well-meaning coddling. For the world to stop seeing her as just Clair and start seeing her as something more... and something more fragile.

And still, through it all, the bump grew—and so did the love that wrapped around it.

[mrscmobsession]

The First Ultrasound

The First Ultrasound

The sterile scent of the exam room clung to Clair’s nerves as she lay back on the paper-covered table. Her fingers clenched around Nick’s—his thumb brushing slowly over the back of her hand in a steady rhythm that betrayed how hard he was trying to stay calm. Ray stood beside her other side, unusually silent, arms crossed but close enough that his shoulder touched hers.

The room was dimly lit, the only glow coming from the monitor beside the bed. Cold gel spread across her belly made her flinch, and Nick instinctively bent down to kiss her forehead.

“You okay?” he whispered.

She nodded, but her throat was too tight to speak. The technician’s gentle voice cut through the quiet.

“All right, let’s take a look.”

The wand pressed against her skin, and for a second—just a second—there was nothing but static on the screen. Her heart thudded wildly in her chest.

What if there was no heartbeat? What if something was wrong? What if all the fear and pain she'd held inside had somehow made its way into this tiny life?

And then—there it was.

A flicker. A pulse. A little rhythmic thump, clear and alive.

Clair’s breath caught in her throat. The world shrank to the sound of that tiny heartbeat echoing in the room like a promise.

Her hand flew to her mouth, tears spilling down her cheeks before she could stop them. She hadn’t even known she was crying until Ray’s hand covered hers and Nick's grip tightened around her fingers.

“That’s…” she couldn’t finish the sentence. Her voice cracked. She turned to look at both of them, eyes wide with something between awe and disbelief. “That’s our baby.”

Nick blinked hard, his jaw tightening as emotion swelled in his face. He kissed the back of her hand, then leaned over to press his forehead to hers.

Ray, ever the steady one, swallowed hard and looked at the screen. “They’re strong,” he said softly. “That heartbeat… God, that’s strong.”

The technician smiled kindly. “Everything looks right on track. Healthy. Growing just as they should.”

Clair nodded, biting her lip to hold back another sob. A wave of something heavy but beautiful pressed against her chest—relief, gratitude, fear, joy… love.

For weeks, she had carried the weight of uncertainty—of what it meant to bring a life into a world like this, of how her own broken past might echo into their future. But right now… that sound, that flutter of life on the monitor… it drowned all of that out.

Nick wiped a tear from her cheek with his thumb. Ray stepped closer and bent to kiss her temple.

In the quiet hum of the machine, the three of them were bound together—not just by love or commitment or lust, but by this new, fragile beginning.

They had created something beautiful. Something real. And no matter what lay ahead… they would protect it.

Together.

[mrscmobsession]

A Shocking Revelation

The hospital was too bright. Too sterile. Too cold.

Clair sat on the edge of the exam bed, her hands gripping the thin sheet beneath her, staring at the bruises forming along her arms. Nick and Ray stood close—too quiet, too tense, like they were holding their breath. The physical exam had been painful, but nothing compared to the moment the doctor walked in with her lab results.

“There’s something else you should know,” the doctor said, her voice careful. “The blood work we ran shows you’re pregnant.”

The silence was deafening.

Clair’s breath caught in her throat. She looked between Ray and Nick, searching their faces for something—anything. But all she saw was shock.

Nick blinked first. “Wait… what?”

Ray’s jaw clenched, his hands curling into fists at his sides.

“You’re about six weeks along,” the doctor continued gently. “Given your high-risk history, I’d recommend following up with your OB as soon as possible.”

High risk.

The words rattled around in her head.

Another pregnancy. After everything.

Her mind was spinning, but when she looked up again, Nick and Ray hadn’t moved. They were frozen, barely breathing, their eyes locked on her like she might shatter if they said the wrong thing.

She swallowed hard. “Can I… have a minute with them?”

The doctor nodded and stepped out, leaving the three of them in suffocating silence.

The Weight of the News

The ride home was wordless.

Nick drove, his grip tight on the wheel. Ray sat in the back with her, but he hadn’t touched her since the hospital. He just stared out the window, jaw locked.

Clair didn’t know what to say.

By the time they made it home, the house felt different. The warm, safe place they had built together now felt like a fragile glass box, one wrong move away from breaking.

They sat on the couch, no lights on, no TV—just silence.

Clair wrapped her arms around herself. She expected them to say something. Anything.

But they didn’t.

The only sound was the faint hum of the fridge and the distant traffic outside.

She couldn’t take it anymore.

“Are we going to talk about this?” she finally asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Nick exhaled heavily, rubbing his hands over his face. “It’s just… a lot.”

Ray didn’t say anything.

That was what hurt the most.

The Elephant in the Room

The next day at work, things weren’t any better.

The crime lab was buzzing with tension, the team hyper-focused on the new Dick & Jane copycat case. No one knew what had happened to Clair. The bruises were hidden beneath her clothes, and she wasn’t exactly in the mood to talk.

But Greg, always one to break tension with humor, had to open his mouth.

“I’d hate to see the other guy,” he joked when he saw her stiff movements.

The moment the words left his mouth, the room fell silent.

Ray’s head snapped toward him. “You don’t want to joke about that,” he said, his voice sharp.

Greg blinked, glancing between them. “Whoa, sorry. I didn’t mean—”

Nick cut in, shaking his head. “Not the time, man.”

Clair just turned back to her work, pretending the conversation never happened. They were all avoiding the elephant in the room.

But by the time dinner rolled around, avoiding it was no longer an option.

The Conversation They Couldn't Avoid

They sat at the dinner table, plates half-eaten, pushing food around in silence.

Then Nick sighed. “Alright, let’s talk about it.”

Clair tensed, her fork freezing mid-air.

Ray was quiet.

Nick leaned forward. “Are we scared? Yes. But we’re also going to be excited, because this is our baby. We wanted this—”

Clair cut him off. “Did we?”

The words hung in the air.

She wasn’t trying to start a fight, but the truth was, they had never actually talked about having kids again. Not after what happened last time. Not after losing the first baby.

Nick reached for her hand. “I know this wasn’t planned. And yeah, it’s terrifying. But we will figure it out.”

Clair nodded slowly, but something was still off.

Ray had barely said a word.

And the way his voice had cut earlier—something about it stuck with her.

Late Night Confessions

The nausea hit hard that night.

She barely made it to the bathroom in time, gripping the toilet as she emptied her stomach. Her body was exhausted, trembling, and she barely had the strength to lift her head.

Then she felt warmth behind her.

Ray.

He had come in quietly, sitting behind her with his legs on either side, pulling her back against his chest. One arm wrapped around her waist, the other reached up to brush the damp hair from her face.

“You okay, baby?” he murmured.

She groaned. “Do I look okay?”

He huffed a soft chuckle and kissed her temple. “No. You look miserable.”

She leaned into him, closing her eyes.

Then, after a long pause, he finally spoke.

“I’m sorry if I seemed off earlier,” he whispered.

She swallowed. “You were really quiet.”

He sighed, resting his chin on her shoulder. “I think… I just got scared. I don’t want to lose you again. I don’t want anything to happen to you or the baby. And for a second, when they told us at the hospital, all I could think about was what if—”

His voice cracked.

Clair’s heart clenched.

She turned in his arms, cupping his face. “Ray, look at me.”

His dark eyes met hers, raw with emotion.

“We’re going to be okay,” she said softly. “I promise.”

His hand slid over her stomach, fingers splayed protectively.

“I’ll do anything to protect you,” he murmured. “Both of you.”

Clair exhaled shakily, resting her forehead against his.

For the first time since they found out, the fear didn’t feel so suffocating.

Because they were in this together.

[mrscmobsession]

Back to Reality

The flight home was quiet. Not because they weren’t talking, but because the weight of leaving paradise pressed down on all three of them. Clair sat in the middle seat, her fingers interlaced with Ray’s on one side and Nick’s on the other. They both held on to her, almost as if they could sense that part of her heart was still at the beach.

“Soon,” Nick murmured, kissing the top of her head. “We’ll go back.”

Ray squeezed her hand. “Maybe next time, we’ll stay longer.”

Clair smiled softly, but there was a heaviness in her chest. Something about this trip felt… final. Like they were stepping into something new, something that would change everything.

She just didn’t know what yet.

Back to the Crime Lab

Las Vegas greeted them with the usual chaos—flashing lights, sirens wailing in the distance, and the dry desert heat. Their first day back was like being thrown into ice water. The moment they stepped into the crime lab, the weight of their jobs settled over them.

“Welcome back, lovebirds,” Greg teased, flashing a grin. “How was the trip?”

Clair smirked. “Relaxing. We actually slept for once.”

Greg waggled his eyebrows. “Just slept?”

Ray clapped a hand on Greg’s shoulder. “Go process your samples, Sanders.”

The lightheartedness only lasted a few hours before everything shifted.

A new case had just come in.

The Dick & Jane Killer.

Ray’s face hardened as soon as he heard the name. Clair’s stomach twisted.

Nick exhaled sharply. “Didn’t think we’d be dealing with this bastard again.”

The serial killer, Nate Haskell, was locked up. But someone was imitating him. The crime scene was nearly identical to his original killings—a man and woman, posed in a macabre tableau of twisted love.

Clair swallowed hard as she studied the evidence. The nausea she’d been feeling all morning worsened.

It had started on the flight back—fatigue, queasiness, and an odd sensitivity to smells. Now, standing over the crime scene photos, she felt lightheaded.

Nick’s eyes flicked to her. “You okay?”

She nodded quickly. “Yeah. Just… the jet lag.”

Ray studied her, unconvinced, but let it slide.

A Feeling She Couldn’t Shake

By the end of the week, the symptoms hadn’t gone away.

If anything, they’d gotten worse.

She felt bloated, nauseous in the mornings, and had a weird aversion to the smell of coffee—which was almost offensive in a crime lab full of caffeine-addicted investigators.

There was a thought in the back of her mind, but she didn’t want to entertain it. Not yet.

They hadn’t talked about kids.

Not once.

And what if… what if they weren’t ready?

What if she wasn’t ready?

She kept pushing it down, forcing herself to focus on work. But one evening, she got off earlier than Nick and Ray and decided to go home alone.

That was her mistake.

A Nightmare in Their Own Home

Clair had barely walked through the front door when she knew something was wrong.

The air felt off, like the house wasn’t truly empty. The back of her neck prickled as she set down her keys, her heartbeat speeding up.

Then she saw it.

A shadow.

Before she could react, a hand clamped over her mouth, shoving her forward. She struggled, kicking and thrashing, but the man was strong.

“Shouldn’t come home alone, sweetheart,” he hissed, slamming her into the wall.

Pain exploded through her ribs.

She fought back, elbowing him, but he grabbed her wrist and twisted. Stars burst behind her eyes. She was not going down without a fight. She kicked hard, sending them both crashing into the coffee table.

The guy cursed, scrambling to his feet. Clair barely got her hands up in time before his fist connected with her jaw. She hit the floor hard, her vision swimming.

She heard him rustling through drawers—looking for something—before the sound of sirens in the distance made him freeze.

Then, just like that, he was gone.

Clair lay there, pain radiating through her body, her head pounding. The moment she tried to sit up, she gagged, her stomach churning.

The adrenaline wore off quickly, and that’s when the fear set in.

She had been alone.

If he had stayed longer…

If he had a weapon…

Her hands trembled as she reached for her phone, barely able to dial.

Nick answered on the first ring.

“Clair?”

Her voice came out broken. “I—someone was here.”

Silence. Then the sound of movement, chairs scraping, footsteps rushing.

“We’re on our way,” Ray’s voice cut in. “Stay on the phone with us.”

Her vision blurred as tears welled in her eyes.

She had never been more scared in her life.

But she had also never been more certain of one thing.

She couldn’t keep ignoring the possibility.

She might be pregnant.

[mrscmobsession]

Steam & Skin

The oversized soaking tub in the master bathroom was already filling with steaming water, the scent of lavender and vanilla filling the air. Candles flickered along the edge of the tub, their soft glow reflecting off the rippling water.

Clair stood between them, her heartbeat pounding as Nick slid her dress off her shoulders, letting it pool at her feet. Ray’s hands were on her bare skin immediately, tracing the curve of her waist, his lips pressing against the back of her neck.

They took their time.

The bath was deep, the hot water lapping at their bodies as she settled between them. Nick leaned back against the cool porcelain, Clair resting between his legs, her back to his chest. Ray faced her, his strong hands running up her thighs, gripping them gently under the water.

Nick’s lips brushed against her ear. “Relax, baby.”

Ray smirked. “Or don’t.”

The steam curled around them, making the moment even headier. The water shifted as their hands explored, as lips found sensitive spots, as soft sighs turned into needy whispers.

It was slow, deep, intoxicating.

By the time they emerged from the tub, steam still clinging to their skin, Clair’s legs felt like jelly, and she had a dazed smile on her face.

One Last Meal

After throwing on a loose shirt, Clair curled up on the couch while Nick grabbed his phone.

“So, what’s the last meal of the trip?” he asked, scrolling through options.

“Pizza and wings,” Clair said without hesitation. “Messy, greasy, comforting—perfect.”

Ray chuckled, tossing a blanket over her legs. “That’s our girl.”

The food arrived quickly, and they ate it right there on the couch, legs tangled together, the remnants of their final night spread out on the coffee table. Music played softly in the background, the windows open just enough for the ocean breeze to drift in.

Clair’s eyes stung as she stared out at the dark waves.

Nick noticed first. “Hey.” He nudged her gently. “What’s wrong?”

She swallowed the lump in her throat, shaking her head. “I just… I don’t want to leave.”

Ray sighed, pulling her close. “I know, baby.”

Nick ran a hand down her arm. “But Vegas needs us.”

She nodded, knowing he was right. “I just feel like I belong here, like I could do more good here.”

Ray pressed a kiss to her temple. “We’ll come back.”

Nick smiled. “Promise.”

Clair took a shaky breath, leaning into them, letting herself be comforted by their warmth.

Because even though they had to leave, a part of her heart would always stay here—by the ocean, in the soft hum of the waves, in the memories they had made together.

Tomorrow, they’d board a flight back to reality.

But tonight, they had each other.

And that was enough.

[mrscmobsession]

Stormy Nights & Slow Dances

Back at the beach house, the rain had slowed to a gentle drizzle, and the storm clouds were breaking apart, allowing streaks of golden sunlight to push through. The waves crashed onto the shore in rhythmic pulses, the sound both powerful and soothing.

Inside, the three of you curled up on the oversized couch, a thick blanket draped over your legs. The soft glow of candles flickered across the room, mixing with the warm light from the fireplace. A slow, jazzy tune played in the background, the kind of music that made you want to sway without even thinking about it.

Ray had you tucked against his chest, one arm wrapped protectively around you while his fingers traced lazy circles on your arm. Nick was on your other side, one leg stretched out, his hand resting on your thigh, rubbing small, absentminded strokes. The storm had given the world an eerie, calm feeling, like time had slowed just for the three of you.

After a moment, Ray shifted and murmured into your ear, “Dance with me.”

You tilted your head back to look at him. “Right now?”

He smiled softly. “Right now.”

Nick smirked but leaned back, watching as Ray helped you up. The second your feet hit the cool floor, he pulled you in, his hands finding your waist, pressing you close.

The music played low and steady, and Ray swayed with you, his warmth enveloping you as you moved together. His lips brushed your temple, then your jaw, his breath tickling your skin.

“I could do this forever,” he whispered.

You smiled, resting your head on his shoulder, letting yourself sink into the moment.

Nick cleared his throat. “Alright, my turn.”

Ray chuckled but released you, stepping aside as Nick took his place, instantly pulling you into him. His hands gripped your hips, his touch a little firmer, his movements a little slower, more deliberate. His lips found your neck, trailing soft, teasing kisses up to your ear.

“I think I like dancing,” he murmured.

You laughed, fingers threading through his hair as the moment deepened, the air between you thick with unspoken words. You could feel Ray behind you, his gaze heavy, watching as Nick’s hands roamed lower, pulling you impossibly closer.

The slow dancing melted into something else—something hotter, more desperate. Lips met, hands wandered, breaths grew heavier. Before you knew it, Ray had pressed up against your back, Nick in front, both of them making you feel everything at once.

Just as things were getting really heated, a shrill noise cut through the air—your phones blaring all at once.

Tornado Warning. Seek Shelter Immediately.

“Shit,” Nick muttered, already reaching for his jeans.

Ray pulled away reluctantly, running a hand through his hair as he grabbed his phone. “It’s probably nothing, but we should get dressed just in case.”

You groaned, still breathless, as you tugged your oversized T-shirt back on. “Of course this happens now.”

Nick chuckled, pressing a quick kiss to your forehead. “Rain check?”

You smirked. “You better believe it.”

After quickly dressing, the three of you sat near the large windows, watching the sky shift and swirl. The wind howled, palm trees bending, but after about twenty minutes, the warning lifted.

Ray let out a long breath. “Well… that was anticlimactic.”

Nick leaned back, stretching. “Could’ve been worse. At least we didn’t have to huddle in a bathtub.”

You laughed. “Yeah, because that would’ve been awkward.”

Nick shot you a playful look. “I don’t think we do anything awkward.”

Ray smirked. “He’s got a point.”

With the storm now fully passed, the three of you debated what to do with the rest of the afternoon. Eventually, you all agreed on something lighthearted—a visit to the local boardwalk, complete with arcade games, funnel cake, and a few friendly competitions.

And, of course, another shot at finishing what the tornado warning interrupted later that night.

[mrscmobsession]

Stormy Skies & Waffle House Vibes

The drive to Waffle House was quiet, save for the occasional hum of the radio and the soft whoosh of the wind picking up outside. Dark storm clouds loomed overhead, thick and heavy, making the mid-morning feel almost like dusk. The air smelled like rain, that electric scent before the sky finally cracked open.

Nick drove with one hand on the wheel, his other arm resting casually on the console. Ray sat in the passenger seat, scrolling through his phone, while you sat in the back, gazing out the window, watching the sky shift and swirl.

“You sure we should be out?” Ray finally asked, glancing up. “Looks like it could pour any second.”

You grinned. “Even better. Waffle House during a storm? Peak experience.”

Nick chuckled. “She’s really hyping this up, huh?”

You smirked. “I only hype the important things.”

By the time you pulled into the parking lot, the wind had picked up, rattling the old neon sign as it flickered slightly. Inside, the place was exactly as it should be—chaotic, loud, and perfect.

The cook was flipping eggs with one hand and slapping a raw steak onto the griddle with the other, all while singing—terribly—along with the jukebox. A couple of truckers sat at the counter, drinking coffee so black it could fuel a car, and a group of teenagers were crammed into a booth, laughing over a pile of half-eaten waffles.

You slid into a booth, and the red vinyl seat let out a small squeak beneath you. Nick and Ray followed, their expressions a mix of amusement and curiosity as they took in their surroundings.

“Alright,” Ray said, “let’s see what all the hype is about.”

The waitress, an older woman with teased-up hair and a name tag that read Dot, popped her gum and gave you all a once-over. “What’ll it be, sweetheart?”

You barely had to think. “Hash browns—scattered, smothered, covered. Bacon, extra crispy. Waffle. Eggs over easy.”

Dot raised an approving brow. “You know what you’re doin’.”

You grinned. “First rodeo for them, though.”

She turned to Nick and Ray, who quickly scrambled to order.

“I’ll take… the same?” Nick said, glancing at you. “But, uh, double everything.”

Ray just handed the menu back. “I trust you, Dot.”

She smirked. “A wise man.”

As you waited for the food, the storm finally broke, rain smacking against the big front windows in heavy sheets. Thunder rumbled in the distance, and for a moment, the world outside felt washed away.

Inside, though, Waffle House didn’t miss a beat. The cook started really getting into his singing, using his spatula as a microphone. One of the truckers whistled in appreciation. The teenagers were now playing something loud and fast on the jukebox, the kind of song that made you want to move.

Nick nudged you. “I think I love this.”

You laughed. “Told you.”

Ray sipped his coffee, shaking his head. “I will never doubt you again.”

When the food arrived, you all dug in like you hadn’t eaten in days. The hash browns were greasy and perfect, the waffles golden and soft. The bacon was crisped just right, and even Ray—who usually turned his nose up at anything remotely unhealthy—couldn’t stop eating.

“Okay,” Nick finally admitted between bites, “this is the best worst food I’ve ever had.”

You smirked. “Told you.”

Dot swung back around, topping off your coffee. “So, what’s the occasion?”

Ray glanced at you and Nick, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Just a day out.”

Nick squeezed your knee under the table, and you met his gaze, warmth blooming in your chest.

No matter the storm outside, in here, with them, everything felt right.

[mrscmobsession]

Morning Bliss and Waffle House First-Timers

The golden light of dawn spilled through the sheer curtains, casting a soft glow over the tangled mess of sheets and limbs. The rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore mixed with the quiet breathing of the three of you, still lost in the afterglow of the night before.

Ray stirred first, his body naturally waking with the morning, and he immediately became aware of just how hard he was. He groaned softly, shifting behind you, his chest pressing against your back. His hand slid down, tracing along your hip as he pressed himself against you.

You smiled sleepily, tilting your head back to meet his gaze. “Morning.”

Ray smirked, voice husky with sleep. “Morning, baby.” His lips brushed over your shoulder, down your neck, sending a shiver through you.

You shifted to face him, the heat between you both growing, unspoken but undeniable. He didn’t need to say anything more—you felt his need pressed against you, and you had every intention of taking care of it.

Slipping out from under the covers, you took his hand, leading him to the en-suite bathroom. The steam from the shower quickly filled the space, and as soon as the water cascaded down, Ray wasted no time pressing you against the warm tile, his lips claiming yours in a slow, desperate kiss.

Your fingers tangled in his wet curls, his hands gripping your waist as he guided you against him. It wasn’t rushed—it was intimate, almost reverent. His hands explored your slick skin, his lips trailing along your neck, whispering praises between heavy breaths. The pleasure built steadily, waves crashing into each other like the ocean outside, until finally, he buried his face into your neck, groaning as he found his release, pulling you over the edge with him.

The shower ran for a little while longer as you both caught your breath, the water soothing and warm.

When you finally stepped out, wrapped in only a towel, you barely had a second to register Nick leaning against the sink, arms crossed, a knowing smirk on his face.

“Y’all having fun without me?” His voice was playful, but his darkened eyes told a different story.

Ray chuckled, running a towel over his damp hair. “Figured you’d be up next.”

Nick didn’t waste a second—he stepped forward, scooped you up effortlessly, and carried you right back into the shower, shutting the glass door behind him.

You gasped as the warm water hit your skin again, but Nick’s lips quickly silenced you. His kiss was different from Ray’s—rougher, more desperate. He pressed you up against the shower wall, his hands gripping your thighs as you instinctively wrapped your legs around his waist.

“You look so fuckin’ good like this,” he murmured against your lips, pushing into you, stretching you in the best way.

You moaned, fingers digging into his wet shoulders as he moved, slow at first, then harder, more demanding. He took his time, dragging out every ounce of pleasure he could, until you were clenching around him, crying out his name.

When you finally stepped out of the bathroom, skin flushed and glowing, Ray was lounging on the bed, scrolling through his phone with a smug expression.

Nick flopped down beside him, sighing dramatically. “Best shower I’ve ever had.”

Ray snorted. “I bet.”

You laughed, running a towel over your damp hair. “You two are insatiable.”

Ray stretched, then sat up, eyes glinting mischievously. “Speaking of things we’re insatiable about… What do you say we hit Waffle House?”

Your face immediately lit up. “Yes!”

Nick looked intrigued. “Never been. Worth the hype?”

You chuckled, already knowing how this was going to go. “Lower your expectations. But trust me, it’s an experience.”

Nick and Ray exchanged a look before shrugging. “Alright, lead the way, baby.”

[mrscmobsession]

Back at the Beach House

The ocean breeze drifted through the open sliding doors, carrying the scent of salt and freedom. The beach house was bathed in the soft glow of string lights, their golden hue flickering off the wine glasses sitting half-full on the counter. A bouquet of deep red roses rested beside them, the petals delicate and fresh, their fragrance mixing with the aroma of sizzling steak as Ray manned the grill outside on the deck.

Nick leaned against the counter, watching Clair with that lazy smirk that sent warmth spreading through her. “You look happy,” he mused, sipping his wine.

Clair sighed, taking in the perfect evening. “I am.”

Ray called in from the deck, “Hope you’re hungry because this is about to be the best damn steak you’ve ever had.”

She laughed as Nick went to help, and soon enough, they were all gathered around the table, plates filled with perfectly cooked steak, roasted vegetables, and warm, buttered bread. The conversation was light, full of teasing and laughter, their hands brushing as they reached for drinks or stole bites from each other’s plates. It felt natural, effortless—just the three of them, wrapped in their own little world.

After dinner, they settled onto the oversized couch, a classic movie playing in the background more for atmosphere than attention. Nick pulled Clair into his lap while Ray stretched out beside them, fingers idly tracing circles along her thigh. The warmth of their bodies, the ease of the moment—it was intoxicating.

Clair excused herself after a while, slipping into the bedroom. Her heart thrummed with excitement as she dug through the sleek Victoria’s Secret bag, pulling out the delicate set she’d picked earlier—a deep wine-colored lace ensemble, barely-there fabric hugging her curves in all the right places. The sheer fabric revealed just enough to tease, the soft cups pushing up her breasts, the straps delicate against her shoulders.

She glanced in the mirror, running her hands down her sides, adjusting the garter belt with a sly smile. Perfect.

Stepping back into the dimly lit living room, she leaned against the doorway, waiting until Nick and Ray’s conversation trailed off. The second they noticed her, the air shifted.

Nick’s lips parted slightly, his eyes raking over her from head to toe. Ray let out a low whistle, his gaze darkening with want.

“Well, damn,” Nick muttered, setting his drink down. “That’s not fair.”

Clair bit her lip. “Oh? I thought you two liked surprises.”

Ray stood first, his towering frame approaching her with slow, deliberate steps. “We love surprises,” he murmured, trailing his fingers along her exposed shoulder, down the delicate lace.

Nick joined them, standing just behind her, his breath hot against her neck. “Especially when they look this good.”

She shivered at the heat between them, the way their hands explored her with unhurried precision. Nick’s lips found the sensitive spot just beneath her ear while Ray traced kisses along her collarbone, sending sparks through her body.

Nick’s hands slid lower, gripping her hips and pulling her flush against him. “I think you knew exactly what you were doing when you put this on.”

Clair smirked, tilting her head to meet Ray’s lips in a slow, teasing kiss. “Maybe.”

Ray groaned, deepening the kiss as his hands explored, fingers teasing the lace at her waist. Nick’s lips traced a path down her neck, making her breath hitch as he whispered, “Let’s take this to the bedroom.”

Ray scooped her up effortlessly, carrying her toward the room as Nick followed, shutting the doors behind them. The night was far from over, and they had every intention of making it one she’d never forget

[mrscmobsession]

The SkyWheel Proposal – A Moment to Remember

The sun dipped lower over Myrtle Beach, casting a golden glow over the water as the SkyWheel slowly lifted your gondola into the sky. The view was breathtaking—the waves shimmering in the fading sunlight, the boardwalk below buzzing with life, and the laughter of people enjoying the warm summer night.

You leaned against the glass, taking it all in. “This is… perfect,” you murmured.

Nick, sitting across from you, shot Ray a quick glance. Ray smirked, then took a deep breath.

“Yeah,” Ray agreed, reaching into his pocket. “Perfect for what we have planned.”

You turned to him, brow furrowing in confusion. “What do you mean?”

Nick followed suit, pulling a small, velvet box from his own pocket.

Your stomach flipped.

Your breath hitched.

The gondola rocked slightly as the Ferris wheel moved upward, but your entire world had stopped.

Ray’s voice was steady, but his deep brown eyes glowed with emotion. “You know we love you, right?”

Your hand flew to your mouth, your eyes already brimming with tears. “Yes.”

Nick leaned forward, his fingers brushing against your knee. “We want to spend the rest of our lives proving it to you.” He flipped the box open, revealing a ring—delicate, yet undeniably you.

Ray did the same, holding up a second ring, just as stunning. “If you’ll have us.”

Your heart pounded in your chest. “I—” Your voice cracked, and you let out a breathless laugh, overwhelmed. “Are you serious?”

Nick chuckled, but you could see the nerves flickering beneath his confident smirk. “Never been more serious, babe.”

Ray’s hand found yours, his grip warm and sure. “So, what do you say?”

The words barely left his lips before you threw yourself into their arms. “Yes!” you gasped, laughing as the tears spilled over. “Yes, of course, yes!”

The moment was interrupted by a sudden eruption of cheers.

Startled, you turned toward the neighboring gondola, where a group of strangers had clearly witnessed the entire thing. They were pressed against the glass, whooping and clapping. One woman wiped a tear away. “That was the most romantic thing I’ve ever seen!” she called out.

Another guy in the group pumped his fist in the air. “Hell yeah! Congrats!”

Nick laughed, shaking his head. “Well, I guess we had an audience.”

Ray grinned, kissing your temple. “Guess that makes it official.”

The gondola finally reached the ground, but you felt like you were still floating. As you stepped off the ride, Nick and Ray each took one of your hands, holding onto you as tightly as if they’d never let go.

And you knew, in that moment, they never would.

[mrscmobsession]

The Surprise Trip to Myrtle Beach

The flight was smooth, though you still gripped Ray’s hand tightly during takeoff. Nick chuckled from his seat beside you, rubbing soothing circles on your thigh. “You’ve flown before, babe,” he teased.

You rolled your eyes but leaned into Ray’s shoulder, letting yourself relax against the steady rhythm of his breathing. “Yeah, but I don’t have control up here,” you muttered.

Nick smirked. “Control freak.”

You shot him a playful glare, and he only winked in response.

The moment the plane descended over Myrtle Beach, your breath caught in your throat. The ocean stretched out infinitely, the golden sands glowing beneath the soft afternoon sun. A flood of memories washed over you—the last time you were here, you were a kid, your parents still alive, laughter still filling your world.

Your throat tightened, but Ray squeezed your hand, grounding you. “You okay?” he asked gently.

You nodded, blinking back the sudden wave of emotion. “Yeah. I just… I haven’t been back since my parents passed.”

Nick’s playful expression softened. “That’s why we picked this place. Thought you might like to make some new memories here… with us.”

Your heart clenched in the best way, and you could only whisper, “Thank you.”

The Perfect Stay

The beach house they rented was perfect—a modern, oceanfront retreat with massive windows that allowed the morning sunlight to bathe every inch of the space. The sound of waves crashing against the shore was constant, rhythmic, comforting.

The first night, you stood barefoot on the balcony, the warm breeze lifting your hair. Nick came up behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist, his chin resting on your shoulder. “This is nice, huh?”

You exhaled, melting into him. “Yeah, it is.”

Ray joined you both, pressing a kiss to your temple before resting his hand on your hip. “Let’s make this week one to remember.”

You had no idea just how much they meant that.

Exploring the Beach and Attractions

The days were filled with adventure—jet skiing, lounging under an umbrella while sipping on frozen drinks, and exploring the charming boardwalk lined with shops and arcades.

Nick and Ray spoiled you. If you so much as glanced at something for more than a second, one of them was already reaching for their wallet.

At Victoria’s Secret, Nick grinned as he held up a delicate lace set. “This one. You have to try this one.”

Ray arched a brow. “Really? That one?”

Nick smirked. “Trust me.”

You rolled your eyes but grabbed it anyway. Later that night, you found out exactly why he was so adamant about that set.

At Coach, you barely had time to admire a gorgeous purse before Ray was already handing his card over. “Ray!” you protested.

He only shrugged. “It looks good on you.”

Nick chuckled. “Face it, babe, we like spoiling you.”

You sighed but couldn’t fight the warmth in your chest. They were impossible.

[mrscmobsession]

The Aftermath

TW: grape mental illness

Chapter 8

The next morning, the soft glow of the sun filtered through the curtains, casting a golden haze over the bedroom. The steady rise and fall of their chests were the only movements in the room. Both Nick and Ray, utterly exhausted, had finally let sleep take them—one curled on either side of you, their bodies instinctively protective even in unconsciousness.

But the bed was empty.

Nick stirred first, his hand reaching out to the space where you had been, only to feel the cold sheets. His eyes snapped open.

"Ray," he murmured, nudging him awake.

Ray groaned, his muscles stiff from the night before. "Hmm?"

Nick sat up, scanning the room before his gaze fell on the sheer curtains billowing slightly by the glass doors leading to the pool. And then he saw you.

You sat curled up at the edge of the pool, your knees drawn to your chest, arms wrapped tightly around them. The water’s surface was perfectly still, mirroring the storm of emotions swirling inside you.

Ray followed Nick’s line of sight, exhaling as he rubbed a hand over his face. Without a word, they both got up and padded outside, the cool morning air hitting their skin.

Nick crouched beside you first, his voice soft. "You’ve been out here a while, haven’t you?"

You didn’t move, eyes fixed on the water, silent.

Ray lowered himself on your other side, his shoulder pressing against yours. "You want to talk about it?"

For a long moment, you said nothing. Then, in a voice barely above a whisper, you admitted, "I don’t even know what I feel."

Nick sighed, rubbing slow circles on your back. "That’s normal, babe. What happened last night… it wasn’t your fault."

Your throat tightened. "I know that, logically. But knowing it and feeling it are two different things."

Ray reached for your hand, threading his fingers through yours. "You don’t have to figure it all out today. Or tomorrow. But you do have to let us in, okay?"

You finally looked at them, your eyes filled with exhaustion and something else—fear. "I just… I don’t want to feel weak. I hate that he took something from me."

Nick’s jaw tensed. "He didn’t. He tried, but you fought back. You won."

Ray nodded. "And we’re here. Whatever you need, however long it takes."

You inhaled shakily, letting their words settle. The weight in your chest didn’t disappear, but for the first time since last night, it felt a little less suffocating.

A Few Days Later

The house had been quiet. Too quiet.

You hadn’t gone back to work yet, opting to work remotely when you felt up to it. The boys gave you space when you needed it, but they were never too far, watching closely without making it obvious.

Greg and Sara had stopped by, offering support in their own ways—Greg bringing terrible crime podcasts to distract you, and Sara offering an ear without pushing. Catherine had texted, reminding you that she was only a call away.

But the nights were the hardest.

Sleep came in restless waves. Shadows in the room made you uneasy, sudden sounds made your heart race. You hated feeling like this—on edge, anxious, not yourself.

Nick and Ray noticed. They always noticed.

So, when Nick came home one evening with a mischievous grin and two packed duffel bags, you immediately narrowed your eyes.

"What’s going on?" you asked suspiciously.

Ray tossed his own bag over his shoulder, smirking. "You’ve been cooped up too long. We’re getting out of here for a bit."

Nick wiggled his brows. "Beach trip, babe. Sun, sand, and absolutely no stress."

Your lips parted in surprise. "Wait, we’re just going? Like… now?"

Ray kissed your forehead. "Bags are already packed, sweetheart. All you have to do is get in the car."

Your heart swelled. They always knew exactly what you needed—even before you did.

For the first time in days, a genuine smile tugged at your lips. "Okay," you whispered.

Nick grinned. "That’s my girl."

And just like that, the heaviness in your chest lifted a little more. Maybe you weren’t healed yet, but with them by your side, you were going to be okay.

[mrscmobsession]

A Night to Remember

TW:: attempted Grape drunk drinking

Chapter 7

The cool night air was filled with the roar of engines and the sharp scent of burnt rubber as the three of you raced around the go-kart track. Nick, competitive as ever, swerved in front of you at the last second, laughing as you let out a dramatic shout.

"That’s cheating, Stokes!" you called after him.

Ray, cool and calculated, stayed just behind, waiting for the perfect opportunity to cut ahead. "It’s called strategy," he teased.

Your foot pressed harder on the pedal, determined not to come in last, but in the end, Nick took first place with a smug grin, and Ray crossed the finish line just before you.

As you all stepped out of the karts, breathless and giddy, Nick wrapped an arm around your waist. "Rematch at home?" he murmured suggestively.

Ray smirked. "I think we’ll all win that one."

The Shower Turns Steamy

By the time you got home, the three of you were sweaty, your adrenaline still pumping from the race. A shower sounded perfect, but the moment you all stepped under the warm spray, it was clear this was going to be anything but innocent.

Water dripped from Ray’s dark curls as he slid behind you, his strong hands gliding over your waist. Nick stood in front of you, his fingers tracing patterns over your wet skin. The heat of the water was nothing compared to the heat between you.

Nick leaned in, pressing a lingering kiss to your lips, while Ray’s lips found the sensitive spot on your neck. Hands roamed, steam thickened the air, and every touch sent fire coursing through your veins.

You tilted your head back, a teasing smirk on your lips. "What if we went out tonight?"

Nick raised a brow. "Out?"

Ray’s fingers trailed lower. "You have somewhere in mind?"

"A club," you murmured, looking between them. "Let’s invite the team. Make a night of it."

Nick grinned. "You want to show us off, huh?"

"Maybe," you teased.

Ray chuckled. "I think it's about time everyone knows."

The Club—The Big Reveal

The club was packed, music thumping so hard you could feel the bass in your bones. Neon lights painted everything in hues of blue and purple, bodies moved together on the dance floor, and the air smelled of liquor and sweat.

You, Nick, and Ray had been dancing all night, drinks in hand, laughing as the team slowly caught on to how close the three of you really were.

But then, as the music built to a crescendo, you turned to face them both—Nick, grinning, his arms wrapped around your waist, and Ray, looking at you with that deep, knowing gaze.

Screw it.

You reached up, grabbed both their collars, and pulled them in, pressing a deep kiss to Nick’s lips before turning to capture Ray’s in another.

The second you did, the club erupted.

"HOLY SHIT!" Greg shouted.

Catherine’s eyes widened before she burst into laughter. Sara clapped, and even Brass—gruff and unimpressed with most things—let out a low whistle.

The cheers and whoops filled the air as the entire team swarmed around you, jumping, hugging, celebrating like you’d just won the lottery.

Nick kissed the top of your head, laughing. "Well, I guess the secret’s out."

Ray smirked. "And they’re taking it better than I expected."

Greg slung an arm around you, grinning. "About damn time!"

The night was a blur of dancing, drinking, and celebration. Everything felt perfect.

The Attack in the Bathroom

You had slipped away to the restroom, still buzzing from the alcohol and the energy of the night. The club’s dimly lit hallway seemed longer than before, but you finally pushed open the door to the bathroom.

Just as you turned to leave, a shadow blocked the doorway.

"Leaving so soon?"

The voice was low, slurred. Before you could react, rough hands shoved you back against the wall. The stall door rattled from the force, and you felt the cold tile against your bare shoulders.

Your heart lurched.

His breath was thick with alcohol, and his hands—too fast, too rough—were already sliding up your thigh.

Panic surged through you. You shoved at his chest, your movements clumsy from the alcohol, but he was stronger.

"Let go of me!" you slurred, voice sharp with fear.

He smirked. "C’mon, don’t be like that—"

Your knee shot up—hard.

The impact sent him stumbling back, groaning in pain. You didn’t wait. You ran.

Nick Finds You

You burst out of the bathroom, your breath ragged, your hands shaking. Your eyes darted around the club, searching for someone—anyone—until they locked onto a familiar figure.

Nick.

He was waiting in line for the men’s room, laughing at something Greg said, but the moment he saw you—messy hair, tear-streaked face, trembling hands—his expression changed.

His drink hit the floor.

He was there in an instant, hands on your shoulders. "What happened?"

You choked out the words. "He—he tried to—"

Nick didn’t need to hear the rest. His jaw clenched, eyes dark with rage as he turned on his heel and stormed toward the bathroom.

You called after him, but he was already gone.

Ray Finds You

Seconds later, Ray was there, his eyes scanning you, instantly noticing the way you were holding yourself, the way you were shaking.

"Clair?" His voice was gentle, but his eyes were sharp, assessing.

The moment you looked at him, everything broke.

A sob wracked through you as you wrapped your arms around yourself, and he didn’t hesitate. He pulled you in, holding you so tightly you could feel his heartbeat against your cheek.

"You’re safe," he murmured against your hair. "I’ve got you."

His hand rubbed soothing circles on your back as you clung to him, trying to steady your breath.

"I—I don’t know what would’ve happened if I—"

"You did stop him," Ray said firmly, pulling back just enough to meet your eyes. "You got away. That’s what matters."

Nick returned moments later, his knuckles red, his jaw clenched, his chest rising and falling rapidly. "Cops are on their way. He’s not getting away with this."

Ray’s grip on you tightened. "Damn right he’s not."

You looked between them—Nick’s barely restrained fury, Ray’s steady strength—and even though you were still shaking, even though the night had turned upside down, you knew one thing for sure.

You weren’t alone.

And you never would be.

[mrscmobsession]

The Morning After

Chapter 6

The scent of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon filled the air as the soft morning light peeked through the bedroom curtains. You stirred beneath the covers, stretching out in the empty bed, your body still pleasantly sore from the night before. A lazy smile spread across your lips as memories of tangled sheets, whispered praises, and heated touches played in your mind.

Sliding out of bed, you grabbed the nearest thing you could find—one of their crisp white button-up shirts from the floor. The fabric smelled like them, a mix of cologne and warmth that made your heart flutter. You rolled up the sleeves, buttoning just enough to keep it from slipping off your shoulders before slipping on a pair of socks. Your hair was a tousled mess, but you didn’t care.

As you made your way toward the kitchen, you could hear the quiet hum of conversation. Nick stood by the stove, flipping pancakes, his back muscles flexing under the snug fit of his T-shirt. Ray, standing by the coffee maker, poured two cups, his movements precise and controlled like always.

They must have sensed you approaching because when you stepped into the kitchen, both men turned to look at you—and instantly exchanged knowing glances before smiling.

"Well, don’t you look adorable," Nick mused, eyes flickering over your oversized shirt and bare legs.

Ray smirked as he handed Nick a cup of coffee before turning to you with another. "You’re wearing my shirt," he noted, a glint of amusement in his dark eyes.

You took the coffee with a small shrug. "It was the closest thing to me," you teased before taking a sip.

Nick chuckled as he plated the pancakes. "We might need to buy more shirts if this is gonna be a habit."

Ray shook his head with an affectionate sigh. "I don’t think either of us mind."

You hopped onto one of the barstools, watching them move around the kitchen like they’d done this a hundred times before. It felt… easy. Natural. Like this was exactly where you belonged.

As the three of you ate, conversation flowed effortlessly, filled with teasing and laughter. It was their weekend off—a rare luxury in your line of work.

"You know," Nick started, wiping his mouth with a napkin, "we should do something today. Go out, enjoy the day together."

Ray nodded, taking a sip of his coffee. "Shopping, maybe? Haven’t had a good day to just relax in a while."

Your eyes lit up. "Are you two seriously suggesting a mall trip?"

Nick smirked. "We spoil you, remember?"

Ray leaned back, a satisfied glint in his eyes. "And you deserve it."

A couple of hours later, the three of you walked into the mall, hand in hand, completely relaxed. First stop? Victoria’s Secret.

You barely had a chance to protest before Nick and Ray guided you inside, both with smug expressions. Nick had his arm slung around your waist as he whispered in your ear, "Pick whatever you want, sweetheart."

Ray leaned down, lips close to your other ear. "Or let us pick for you."

Your cheeks burned as they led you through the store, picking out sets that made your skin tingle just imagining their reactions.

After that, they took you straight to Coach, insisting you needed a new bag. "Something to match your style," Nick said as he handed you a sleek leather purse.

"You know I don’t need all this," you said, though you couldn’t hide your smile.

Ray brushed a strand of hair from your face. "We know. But we want to."

By the time you left the mall, you had bags from several stores, new lingerie you couldn't wait to wear, and two men who clearly loved doting on you.

As the three of you walked to the car, Nick slung an arm around your shoulders. "Best day off ever?"

You grinned up at them. "Definitely."

Ray squeezed your hand. "And the night’s only just getting started."

[mrscmobsession]

The First Night as a Trio

The energy between the three of you had been building for weeks—stolen glances, lingering touches, the unspoken tension thick in the air. You’d never planned for this, never expected to find yourself caught between two men who both made your heart race in different ways. Nick, with his Southern charm and protective nature, made you feel safe in a way you hadn’t experienced before. Ray, thoughtful and intense, had a quiet strength that made you weak in the knees.

Tonight, there were no more doubts. No more holding back.

It started with a shared look, an understanding passing between the three of you in the dimly lit bedroom. You had just come back from a long shift, adrenaline still thrumming through your veins from the latest case. But as soon as the door closed behind you, the tension snapped.

Nick was the first to move, stepping forward and cupping your face with calloused hands, his blue eyes searching yours. "Are you sure about this?" he asked, his voice thick with something between desire and concern.

You didn’t hesitate. "I’ve never been more sure of anything."

Ray exhaled slowly, his dark eyes locking onto yours before flicking to Nick’s. There was an unspoken agreement between them—this was about you, about what you needed, and they were both more than willing to give it.

Nick kissed you first—slow, teasing, drawing out every ounce of anticipation. His lips were firm, demanding yet gentle, making you melt against him. Then, before you could catch your breath, Ray’s hands were on your waist, pulling you flush against his chest. His kiss was different—deeper, more controlled, as if he was memorizing the way you tasted.

Your body was caught between them, heat pooling low in your belly as their hands explored, stripping away layers of hesitation along with your clothes.

Nick’s voice was rough in your ear. "You have no idea how long we’ve wanted this, sweetheart."

Ray’s fingers traced the curve of your spine. "Then let’s make it worth the wait."

What followed was a night of tangled limbs, whispered praises, and pleasure unlike anything you had ever known. They took their time, worshipping every inch of you, making sure you knew just how much you meant to both of them.

And when the night was over, when exhaustion finally set in, you lay between them—Nick’s arm draped over your waist, Ray’s hand resting protectively on your hip. For the first time in a long time, you felt completely and utterly at peace.

"This is just the beginning," Nick murmured against your temple, pressing a soft kiss there.

Ray nodded, his voice steady. "We’re in this together."

And as you drifted off to sleep, wrapped in their warmth, you knew they meant it.