#CSI: Seattle

[julie-finlay]

Circa ~2000, CSI Julie Finlay transfers under Shift Supervisor DB Russell.

Seattle crime lab doesn't know what's hit it.

[jencsi]

CSI Seattle- opening credits pt 3

[qrrieterisunnq]

This Is It - Quinn Hughes

fading beneath illusion

QUINN!HUGHES x JACKIE!CROSS MINORS DNI - 18+ content below the cut — WARNINGS: mentions of guns, shooting, fighting, mafia — SUMMARY: The day that changed Jackie and Quinn’s lives in many ways. — WORD COUNT: 2,7K — AUTHOR'S NOTE: Hii! Welcome to our first chapter in this AU! If you have any questions, thoughts or anything for this AU, don't hesitate to ask, my inbox is open! I hope you'll like it. Probably not the best first chapter, but you know me. I think I will write the next one in the present tense. PART OF FADING BENEATH ILLUSION AU

2 years ago

“I cannot believe you did that,” Everest said to Jackie as they walked down the hallway of the Seattle FBI. Laughing, she shook her head and headed towards her office.

“I just did what I thought would be necessary to do. It is not my fault that he did what he did.” She giggled, opening the door to her office, but she was stopped in her tracks by the familiar face of her boss. Her father.

“Sir,” Everest said, with a curt nod, while Jackie just stood there, with confusion all over her face.

“Agent Shaw,” he nodded at him, not moving from his place behind Jackie’s desk. “Please leave me and Agent Cross alone.” He said with an authoritative voice.

“Of course, Sir!” Everest said, and in two quick strides, left the room, not before giving Jackie a thumbs up.

As soon as Everest was gone, her dad let his bossy facade down and looked at his daughter with concern.

“What is going on, dad?” Jackie asked, walking towards him.

“There is something we need to talk about.” His voice was full of seriousness and worry. Jackie could hear it and see it in the way he was holding his body.

“Okay,”

“Sit down, please,” he pouted towards the guest chair she had in front of her table. She sat down, nervousness tingling her fingertips, but she didn't dare to say anything. “You know the Vancouver mafia case, in Canada?”

“The Canucks mafia?” her father nodded in confirmation. “Yeah, I heard about it, why?” she asked with furrowed brows. She was confused. Why would her father talk about the Canadian mafia when it is not in their jurisdiction?

“The CSIS asked for help. Those above us had chosen you to be the help,” he clarified, rubbing down on his chin. “In four hours you are going to be a part of the Canucks Mafia.”

“I will what?” she asked, getting up from her seat.

“You heard me, Jackie. This is an important mission. Both for you and for the FBI and CSIS,” her father stood up and walked to her, his hands clasping on her shoulders to stop her from pacing. “This is a big opportunity for you. If you are going to be successful and bring the mafia to its knees, everyone in the FBI Academy will study about you.”

“W-when am I leaving?” she asked, completely forgetting if he already told her or not. She was trying to process everything her father had just said. She. In Mafia. In Vancouver. For how long? What if they find out she is with the FBI?

No, she couldn’t think like that. She knew she was the best FBI agent in Seattle. She worked hard for her place there.

“Right now. Mom already packed your things, there is a car waiting for you. They will drive you to the airport, where you'll meet Agent Dunn,” he and Jackie slowly exited her office and made their way to the elevator as her dad was speaking. “He will tell you everything you need to know about your undercover.”

“Okay, can I at least say bye to mom, to the boys, and Beck?”

“Yeah, they are all waiting in the conference room. You have only ten minutes; make it quick, Jackie.” He said with a sigh, his eyes not daring to look at his daughter. Because if he did, he would have to lock her in her old room and not let her leave for Vancouver.

He was aware of how dangerous this mission was, but he had no right to stop her from doing it. Not when she was the only one to pull it off. He was proud of her, but she was still his little girl.

“You won’t come with me?” she looked at him, noticing his shallow breathing and his tensed shoulders.

His throat bobbed before he answered, “No, but I will say my bye before you leave for the airport.”

“Okay,” she swallowed, and with a last look at her dad, she exited the elevator and quickly made her way inside the conference room.

“Jackie!” her mom’s voice calls out, tears forming in her eyes at the sight of her daughter.

“Hey mom,” she smiled at her, closing the door behind her. “I guess dad already told you, right?”

“Yeah,” her mom choked on her tears and strolled towards Jackie to pull her in for a tight hug. Jackie looked at her three siblings, who were sitting by the table, watching them. “You have to be careful, baby.”

“I know, mom. I will,” she whispered into her shoulder and then pulled away. “I am going to be just fine.”

“So, Vancouver, huh?” Joe wiggled his brows and stood up to give her a tight hug, the same going for Aaron and Becka.

“Yeah, Vancouver.” She smiled softly at them as she stroked Becka’s hair, who was still snuggled in her embrace.

“How long will you be gone?” Becka asked, looking up at her older sister.

“I don’t know, Becks. A few months, maybe a year.” She had no idea. These kinds of missions are different every time. Some of the agents got home after a few months, some of them got back after a year, and others didn’t even got to get back because the people found out who they were.

“But you’ll be able to stay in contact with us, right?” Aaron looked at her as he stood next to Joe.

“I…I don’t think so.”

“What do you mean by that?” this time it is Joe, who spoke up, again.

“That I won’t be able to contact you in any way.”

The room is quiet for a while, none of them knowing what to say.

“I have like five minutes before I need to go, so… yeah, I just came to say bye.” She said, breaking the silence. This was the thing for her mom to stand up and pull her in a tight hug again.

“Be careful, okay?” She whispered in her ear as she pulled away.

“I will.”

Following up, her siblings hugged her and said their goodbyes while they told her how much they would miss her.

 “Agent Cross. My name is Vinn Dunn. I am the head agent on this case, and I will be your safe contact. I’ll tell you everything on the plane.  You can say your last goodbye with Agent Cross before we take off.” Agen Dunn said as soon as Jackie set her foot on the railway and shook his hand.

She looked behind herself at her father, who was standing with his hands behind his back.

“I am so proud of you, Jackie,” he sighed, walking closer to her. “I need you to be strong, okay. Don’t let anyone in your head. Forget you are an FBI agent. From now on, you are a completely new person, okay?”

Jackie nodded her head, swallowing hard. It is finally hitting her. She is going to Vancouver to take down an entire mafia.

“I will, dad. I promise.” She nodded and pulled her dad in for a tight hug.

“I love you babygirl.”

“I love you too, daddy.”

“Agent Cross.” Agen Dunn called from the stairs that led inside the jet that was standing a few feet behind her.

“I am coming!” she called back and then looked back at her father. “I’ll see you, someday.” With those words, she made her way inside the jet, but not before looking back at her dad and waving to him for the last time.

“Come sit down, Agent Cross,” Dunn motioned towards the seat in front of him. “We have a lot to discuss.”

Swallowing hard, Jackie took her seat while looking for her belongings. “Where are my things?” she asked, pulling her hair into a messy bun.

“My men already took care of them. They are in the bedroom,” he explained, pointing at the door behind him. “Now, shall we get into work?” Without another thought, Jackie nodded her head.

Agent Dunn rested his elbows on the table as he handed her a black folder with a red Classified stamp in the middle. “This is your new life,” he leaned back in his seat. “Your name is Ava Brooks. You are from a small town, Ballinafad near Toronto, but you have been living in Vancouver for four years now. You’ve got a bit of record, nothing serious, just enough to make you appealing to Canucks. Smuggling, hacking, a couple of cons.” he summarised her new life and gave her a while to open and read the folder.

She scanned the profile, and the fake history was already starting to burn itself into her mind. Ava Brooks. She needed to become her. Completely.

“No family, no ties. You keep your head down, but you’re damn good at what you do. You’ve gotten attention from a few of the mafia’s scouts. That’s where we come in.”

“How do I get in?” she asked, looking up from the folder.

“We have information that they should be in the docks, taking over a delivery of guns. The location is in the file,” Dunn continued, pulling out photos. “These are the men who will be taking over the delivery.” Dunn put three photos in front of her. “Brock Boeser, Filip Hronek, and Conor Garland. These three plus Elias Petterson are the closest to Quinn Hughes.”

“Which means I need to be on their good side, got it.” she said as she examined the photos. She already knew how Quinn looked, his face was printed in front of her eyes. His sharp nose and jaw, full lips and those icy blue eyes.

“Exactly. Anyway, on how you get in. When they take over the delivery, one of our men will be on the roof with a laser sniper pointing it at Boeser, we are positive Hronek or Garland will notice it and guns will be pointed, and when they start to fight, that is when you came in.”

Jackie nodded, already shifting into Ava’s mind. “Is there any way I can get in touch with you?”

Dunn reached under the seat, pulling out a small black phone. “Burden, use it only when necessary. Your contact is already in Vancouver, he’ll reach out every other Wednesday with a secure message.”

“And what if I need help before the meeting?”

Dunn’s face grew more serious as he replied. “Then you are in real trouble. We have placed another two agents in the city. You won’t know who they are. On purpose. Trust no one, Agent Cross. No one!”

Jackie exhaled, long and slow. “Got it.”

Dunn leaned back, the conversation shifting slightly. “Look, I’ve read your file. Your dad might be the assistant director, but you earned your spot. This mission… It’s risky, yeah. But if anyone can do it, it’s you.”

Jackie gave him a small, tight smile. “Thanks. I won’t let you down.”

As the jet sliced through the sky, Vancouver grew closer by the second, and Jackie leaned back in her seat. The folder still sat in her lap, heavy with a life that wasn’t hers — but soon would be.

Goodbye, Jackie Cross.

Hello, Ava Brooks.

She quietly moved around the buildings of the Vancouver docks. She was heading over to where the Canucks should be taking over the gun delivery and her somehow helping them, unexpectedly. She wasn’t really sure how, but she would figure it out.

A gun was pressing on her lower back, where she had it tucked behind her pants, together with knives on her ankles. She slowed down when the faint sound of voices hit her ears. Carefully and quietly, she moved as close as she could, listening to what they were talking about while she examined the docks, looking for the sniper. When she finally found him, and that it was an easy job, she took in a deep breath.

“There is a twenty AK47, fifteen Colt 1911, and a hundred grenades as you wished. You can take a look and make sure everything is in there.” A man's voice said in a high-pitched tone. Almost as if he was scared of the three Canucks men.

“The hell we will. And if you’re lying this time, it won’t be so pretty.” A deep voice with a foreign accent said, and she quietly moved closer to have a better look at the scene.

“I-I promise th-there is everything.” Another, younger man stutters with fear in his voice. There is totally of six of them, three Canucks and three of the others.

“Whatever,” Filip shook his head and nodded towards the box. “Open it.”

Jackie watched the guy open the box, revealing the guns and grenades. She looked back at the sniper, trying to figure out when he would aim.

It isn’t until they are done counting the guns and sealing the deal with a handshake that Hronek notices the red dot on his friend's chest. He looks up at the roofs, noticing the black figure on the opposite roof.

“You have a fucking sniper on the roof?” he growls, pointing his gun at one of the men, while he shows Broock away from the snipers aim.

Garland and Brock followed him, aiming their weapons at the two other guys just like they did.

“The fuck you’re talking about?” on of the man growls back at them with confusion.

“Don’t play with us, Fernandez! You do not want to have a meeting with Hughes!” This time, it was Brook who said in a harsh tone, taking the safety off, followed by all the men in the dock.

“We are not!”

Jackie watched the scene from afar, waiting for her chance to barge in. It’s not until another person appeared behind the canucks, aiming his gun on Garland.

She quickly made her way to the back door, entering quietly and aiming her gun at the man. The men were still in heated conversation when she pressed the barrel of her gun to the man’s head. He gasped, which attracted the attention of the rest of the men.

“Who the fuck are you?” Fernandez yells, pointing the gun at Jackie.

“None of your business,” Jackie swayed his hips and nudged the barrel of her gun against the guy's head, urging him to move. “But you guys,” she nodded at Filip, Conor, and Brock. “Are lucky that I was here.”

“Who are you?” Brock asks, his gun still pointing at Fernandez.

“Hopefully, a new member of Canucks.” She winked at him, looked down at the guy, and then returned to Brock, hoping he understood. When she noticed the subtle cock of his head, she smashed the barrel of the gun in the men’s head and three gunshots rang out across the dock. The three men fell down on the floor, whining in pain.

It’s no longer after they took Fernandez’s and his men’s guns that the three Canucks pointed their guns at her.

“And what made you think that we will want you?” Garland asked, cocking his head on side. Jackie only smirked and slowly walked towards them, tucking her gun behind her pants.

“I just saved your life,” she murmured and then made a quick turn to left, kicking Fernandez in the stomach when she noticed the spare gun in his hand. “And again.”

“We would have managed without you.” Hronek slowly lowered his gun, just like Conor and Brock.

“I am sure you would, but i did save your asses so…” she shrugged looking around her gaze focusing on the box with guns. “Shame you didn’t get s&w model 27 magnum.” she shook her head looking back at them with a slight smirk.

“Knows guns.” Brock nods in acknowledgment, showing his gun back in the holster. “I like her. Plus she can kick asses,” he smirked at her and walked to the box closing it with his back towards her. That made the two canucks put their guns in the holsters and move to him.

Jackie didn’t move as she watched the three men talk.

You are doing well, Jackie!

Keep going, girl!

And don’t forget, you are Ava Brooks now.

After what felt like five minutes, Brock turned at her with a smirk.

“6 am. Jericho Beach Park by the Pond.” Jackie smirked, and with a bow of her head, she left the building.

It was four in the morning, but she couldn’t sleep. Too much adrenaline. Too many thoughts. She was lying in her bed like this, staring at the ceiling

The same thing was happening on the other side of the city. Quinn was lying in bed, eyes wide open, as he thought about the mysterious girl who had saved his men's lives and whom he was meeting in two hours.

He was quite surprised when the three men came back, saying that some brunette woman kinda saved their asses. And even more surprised when they told him he was supposed to meet her today.

He was upset with them for a while because he could not take a stranger into his mafia, but when they explained what had happened to him, he agreed.

They didn’t bring anyone new in few years, and it could be a good thing for the boys to have a woman in there.

With a moan, Quin stretched his aching limbs and got out of bed. He has an hour and a half to get ready and prepare himself for the meeting. The remaining half an hour to get to the park. Last night, he made sure that Elias and Brock were coming with him, so they should be knocking on his door in an hour.

Quinn made his way to the bathroom, rubbing his eyes, before he stopped in front of the mirror. He looked at the tired man staring back at him from the mirror. Large, dark circles under his eyes, messy hair, and a stubble beard, he was too lazy to shave yesterday.

From the cabinet under the sink, he pulled out a shaving cream and a razor. Spraying the cream in his hand, he applied it to his cheeks and rinsed his hands before he reached for the razor and started shaving his cheeks.

When he was done, he dressed himself in a light blue buttoned-up shirt and suit pants and made his way into the kitchen to make himself breakfast. Usually, he would just grab a granola bar and call it breakfast, but today he felt less lazy to make a real breakfast.

He pulled out bacon and eggs from the fridge, along with orange juice and a cucumber. While he was making his bacon and eggs, he washed the dishes from yesterday and made his bed.

When the bacon was crispy enough, he put it on the plate and sat down by the kitchen island. Pulling out his phone, he checked his emails, making a mental note that in two days, they need to leave for New Jersey for a week. That meant he had two days free to meet with his brothers.

He missed them. They see each other only three months a year, and that’s only during the summer holidays, when they all leave for Michigan. Yeah, they may be calling each other at least three times a week, but being on the other side of the continent is taking a toll on him.

Just when he was taking his last bite of the bacon, there was a knock on his door. The boys.

Not saying anything, he put the dishes in the sink, and made his way towards to door, not forgetting to take his gun on the way there. Silently, he looked through the peephole, making sure it was them. When he saw Elias and Brock standing there, he tucked the gun behind his pants, unlocked the door, and swung them open.

“Hey there, boss.” Brock grinned and entered the apartment as soon as Quinn moved away, making room for them.

“Morning, Quinn.” Elias nodded at his boss and moved towards the sofa. With a huff, he plopped down, stretching his long limbs.

“Yeah, morning,” Quinn grumbled, locking the door behind them. He then walked back into the kitchen, putting the gun on the island. Brock and Elias watched him. “So what do we know about the woman?”

“Nothing, actually. I tried to find her, but nothing came up.” Brock murmured as he poured another fist of cashew nuts into his mouth.

“So you’re telling me, we are meeting with a complete stranger, whom we have nothing on, while she for sure knows everything about us?” he asked in disbelief. Why are they so stupid? It could easily be some kind of trap. There could be cops of federal cops around, waiting for them to meet with her, only for them to be arrested. Brock didn’t say anything, because he knew he probably fucked up, but to his defence, she saved their asses and knew a lot about guns.

“Don’t be upset with them. She saved their asses after all.” Elias said, but there he could not say he was not upset with them, too. The least they could do was ask her for her name. “But you could’ve at least asked for her name.”

“Yeah, we could, sorry.”

“Doesn’t matter, now,” Quinn sighed, leaning against the kitchen island. “Why do you even consider telling her, I would meet up with her?”

“I liked her. She knows her around, knows guns, and she handled the guy pretty well.” He shrugged his shoulders, looking expectantly at his boss. He was aware that his boss didn’t like taking in some strangers, but there was something about her. “Plus, I think it could be a good change to have a girl in the crew.”

“I think she deserves a shot. At least give her a chance to prove she can handle herself." This time, it was Elias who spoke up.

"Right," Quinn muttered, swirling his juice. He had been leaning toward the same thing, but there was something about the whole situation that didn't sit right with him. A woman in the crew? It was unusual, but maybe it was time for a change. "I’ll see how she handles the meeting today. If she’s legit, maybe I’ll think about it."

"You know," Brock said with a knowing smirk, "she might even keep you on your toes a little. Might be good for you."

Quinn shot him a sideways glance. "What the hell does that mean?"

"Nothing," Brock grinned. "Nothing at all."

“What do you expect from the meeting?” Elias looked at Quinn with a raised brow. “And how do you want her to prove herself?”

“I want her to prove herself to me. I need to see how she speaks, walks, and how quickly she thinks. Plus, I might have this small job for her to prove herself, enough for me to think about her joining us.” Quinn explained, smirking slightly at the thought of the woman handling the job. There was no way she would be able to pull that off.

Elias and Brock noticed the smirk on his face, and they knew that there was no way, she would pass the test.

“We’re leaving in five, get ready,” Quinn ordered and quickly made his way to the bedroom for his wallet.

Quinn saw her the minute they stepped inside the park. She was standing with her back to them, tight black pants hugging her curvy hips, together with the black zip-up vest hugging her small waist. Her long, dark hair was in a braid that nearly reached the upper curve of her ass.

Quinn kept his neutral yet professional posture as they approached her. She did not move a bit as they approached her.

“What a nice day, isn’t it?” she asked, and that was when she turned around, taking in the sight of the mafia boss standing in front of her.

“For Vancouver, yeah,” Quinn answered, stepping closer to her as Brock and Elias hung in the back.

For a moment, the only sound between them was the distant cry of gulls circling overhead. Jackie kept her gaze forward, every nerve alert. She knew she was walking a razor's edge. One wrong move, one misplaced word, and everything could unravel.

“You’ve got guts,” Quinn admitted after a minute of silence. “Not everyone would jump into a gunfight to help strangers.”

“I am not everyone,” Jackie answered with a smirk.

“I noticed,” he nodded and motioned with his hand for Jackie to follow him. “Anyway, do you have a name or should I keep calling you a ‘mysterious woman’?”

Jackie is quiet for a moment, just to add some weight to her name, “Ava Brooks. Nice to meet you,”

“Quinn Hughes, but you already know.” He stated, with a small smirk.

“Yeah, that’s actually why I am here, so,” she shrugged her shoulders, her hand clutching the pocketknife.

“You trained?”

“Self-taught. Picked up a few things here and there.”

"Interesting." Quinn slowed his pace slightly, studying her as if she was a chess piece he was still deciding how to use. "We don’t bring just anyone in. You get that, right?"

“I am not asking for a job,” she said, looking into his eyes. “I just wanna prove to you that I can pull my weight.”

They reach a bench near the edge of the cliffside overlooking the water. Quinn stops, turns to face her fully. Brock and Elias come up behind, watching but silent.

"You show up out of nowhere, save our asses, and then what? You expect gratitude? A seat at the table?" he asked her with raised brow.

Jackie shrugged, her expression calm. "I don’t expect anything. But if you're smart, you won’t waste what I can offer."

Quinn’s lips twitched, almost a smile. "Bold."

"Accurate."

“Okay,” Quinn sighed after a few minutes of silence. “If you really wanna join us, there is this guy who owes me a big cash. I want you to bring me back my money. Then, maybe I’ll think about it.”

Jackie stopped in her tracks, a smirk grazing her lips. “Well then,” she swallowed. “Where can I find him? And how much does he owe?”

“The Park Club, six grand,” he murmured and looked behind them, signaling at Brock and Elias to get back to their car. “I’ll take you there, c’mon.”

Following Quinn, Jackie mentally prepared herself for the job she was just given. She couldn’t blow this up. It was her only chance to get inside the Vancouver Mafia.

When they reached Quinn’s car, he opened the door for her and helped her inside. The whole ride to the club was quiet as both of them were deep in their thoughts.

“Travis Spark,” Quinn pulled a photo from his hoodie, handing it over to Jackie, who took a look at it. “Huge man, 6’4” and 200lbs. Let’s see what's into you.” He jerked his head towards the bar entrance.

Quinn watched as Jackie confidently entered the bar, a smirk grazing his lips. There was no way she’d actually get his money. The man was the CEO of a cyber tech company, and with his huge ego, there was just no way.

Quinn pulled out his phone and sent a quick message to Brook.

BOSS – be back in ten minutes

double B – is she in?

BOSS – if she succeeds, then maybe she’s

Only ten minutes later, Jackie slammed the car door behind her, throwing two stacks of cash on Quinn’s lap.

“Six grand, as you said,” Jackie said, putting on her seatbelt. Now, if you wouldn’t mind, drive me back to the park.”

“How did you get them?” he looked at Jackie and put the cash in the backseat.

Jackie leaned back in her seat, one leg crossed over the other, her tone cool. “I asked nicely. He didn’t listen. So I convinced him.”

Quinn glanced over, trying to read her, but her face was a perfect mask. Calm. Controlled. Dangerous. He saw that kind of steel before—but usually in men who had already bled for something.

“You convinced Travis Spark to give you six grand? Just like that?”

She shrugged. “Let’s just say your name holds more weight than I thought.”

He chuckled, low and surprised. “And here I was ready to call in backup.”

“Maybe next time,” she said, lips curving slightly.

They rode in silence for a few moments. Vancouver blurred past the windows, the city just waking up. The soft glow of morning light bounced off glass buildings and dew-drenched trees.

“You know,” Quinn finally said, his voice quieter now, “not many people make it past the first ask.”

Jackie turned her head toward him. “You testing me?”

“Always.”

“Good,” she said. “Because I’m always ready to pass.”

The way she said it, like a promise, not a boast, made something flicker behind Quinn’s eyes. He nodded once, fingers drumming against the steering wheel as they pulled back into Jericho Beach Park’s lot.

He parked the car and looked over at her. “You’re in. For now. But you ever pull something that puts my guys at risk? You’re out.”

Jackie unbuckled her seatbelt, her voice firm. “Understood.”

She was halfway out the door when Quinn called her name. She paused, hand on the roof of the car.

“You’ve got something to prove, don’t you?”

She didn’t turn around, just tilted her head enough for him to saw the curve of her jaw. “Don’t we all?”

Then she walked off into the misty park, leaving Quinn watching after her, still unsure if he was just invited into an asset... or a storm.

[callmebrycelee]

MAN CRUSH MONDAY

BEAU MIRCHOFF

William Beau Mirchoff was born January 13 1989 in Seattle, Washington. The 35-year-old Canadian-American actor is best known for his roles on the MTV series Awkward, the Freeform drama Good Trouble, and the Starz comedy Now Apocalypse. Beau has also had roles on the TV shows Desperate Housewives, CSI: Miami, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, The Fosters and Narcos: Mexico. He has appeared in the films Scary Movie 4, The Grudge 3, Flatliners, Detective Knight: Rogue and Detective Knight: Redemption. Beau is 6 feet and 1 inch tall.

[everybuddiewantssome]

tagged by @sun-ni-day to pick a fandom and share one of the first things you wrote for it. Look back with us!

So the first fic I ever started was for csi, during a road trip visiting family. Here's the final version of the first thing I wrote for it (the original copy was on scrap paper I had in my bag idk if I even still have it. But I might. Anyway:

Before Nick left for San Diego, Sara told him one thing: he’d see her all the time. A promise she had intended to keep, but that was before her world got spun around once more. She had never expected her Gil to waltz back into her life, thinking that was sadly all behind her. She hadn’t known she still needed him until he almost left her behind again, when they sailed off into the sunset. Since then, they were rarely apart, not wanting the same perils to shatter them again. None of their friends seemed to mind that they weren’t around as often, what mattered was that they were finally happy. Determined to still visit as much as possible, they made a routine between all their wildlife missions and guest lectures. The cycle started with their moms along with the team in Vegas, as well as Brass, who had fully embraced retirement. Catherine was now lab director, taking the seat Sara never actually took. Finn headed the grave shift, Greg her right hand, then of course Morgan, Lindsey, Henry and Hodges. Their next opportunity they’d spend a few days with the Russells in Seattle. Griss had never worked with him apart from that one case, but they got on well, and they couldn’t resist their warm hospitality. Then last, but certainly not least, Nick in San Diego. They managed to get to each at least once a year, usually twice. Vegas always got an extra visit, so that the three Grissoms – and one Sidle – could spend Christmas together. Their lives were far from normal, they didn’t have a solid home, but they wouldn’t have it any other way.

It had been nearly 10 years since they started this new life, but one thing they had never done was visit Nick at work, see his lab. Nick’s lab. Grissom smiled at the thought of how far his former student had come. They swore to not go another visit without doing so, even if Nick didn’t know about it beforehand. The couple wandered into the San Diego Crime Lab, immediately finding themselves lost. The walls were navy, fairly dark, but somehow still felt welcoming. The receptionist appeared to be out. The only person they could see was a blond woman, back turned to them, who didn’t seem to be too thrilled by the phone conversation they were half overhearing.

Hang on hold up. 10 years. The series ended in 2015, which means we're now in the year I set this fic in. How poetic.

Tagging (no pressure) @aintgonnatakethis @playinginthunderstorms @jimothystu @ilkkawhat and @jencsi and anyone else! Jump in and reminisce!

[thinkingaboutbetterdays]

the boss's wife. ( d.b. russell x reader )

After getting married during your second year at college, you liked to believe you knew your husband more than he knew himself. Whenever he had doubts during cases, or questioned his dedication to his family, you were always there to remind him of the achievements he has made both personally and as a CSI, and how proud you were of him, even if you did worry that he stretched himself a little thin. But that was who Diebenkorn, affectionally called D.B, was to everyone - the person who looked after everyone else without concern for himself.

From experience, you knew that, despite his assurance that he would have dinner, he would become absorbed in the case and forget. One of the perks of moving to Las Vegas was you were closer to the lab than you had been in Seattle, so you decided to surprise the new night shift manager with dinner.

D.B. was surprised when Henry announced that his wife had arrived at the lab, and he could see the immediate intrigue on his team's faces as he stood up from the table where they had spent over an hour reviewing the evidence for what had proved to become a difficult case.

D.B. walked down the hallway to meet you and a smile formed on his lips when he saw the trays of lasagne you had made.

You greeted him with a smile, "I thought I'd bring you all something. I doubt any of you have eaten much today."

"You didn't have to do all this." He took the trays and lowered them before holding them higher again. "Oof, how much did you make?"

"Too much probably." You smiled when he kissed your cheek.

"Are they watching?"

You glanced over at the room he had exited from and hummed as he stepped back. "Come on, I'll introduce you before their heads explode." He nodded to the room and turned, smiling at you as you walked alongside him down the hallway. "So, how is your day goin'?"

"I finally unpacked the photographs. We have officially moved in."

"I thought we moved in a week ago?"

"Yeah, but it's not a home until everything is unpacked and has a place in the house."

D.B. shook his head with a smile, holding the trays higher as he entered the room. "We have food." He set the trays in the middle of the table and stood next to you, placing a hand on your back. "Provided by my lovely, thoughtful, and very, very patient wife. Y/N, this is Catherine, Nick, Greg, Sara, and Morgan."

"Thank you! You are a lifesaver!" Catherine grinned.

"Happy to." You smiled before looking at your husband when he spoke.

"Come on, I'll walk you back to your car."

You knew he would be grilled on you when he returned, so after saying goodbye, you both walked slowly, enjoying a moment alone. "They seem nice."

"Yeah, they're a good team."

You looked up at him as you looped your arm with his, "Tough case?"

He nodded, sighing, "Someone went to a lot of effort to make it look like an open and shut case. They left the crime scene too clean."

You rubbed his arm comfortingly, "They always mess up. You just need to find it. Remember that guy that cleaned a mirror with his own breath and left behind saliva?" A giggle left your lips, "That still cracks me up."

He put his arm around you as you walked, smiling down at you when you leaned into him. You turned when he suddenly stopped walking and your eyebrows furrowed when you saw his expression.

"What?"

A grin formed on his lips, "I love you," He cupped your cheeks and kissed your forehead. "Call me when you get home safe."

"I love you too but -" You watched as he rushed back into the lab and realized he was suddenly struck with inspiration and shook your head fondly, getting into your car, knowing when he got home you would hear all about it.

[lboogie1906]

Paris K. C. Barclay (June 30, 1956) is a television director and producer, writer, LGBT activist. He is a two-time Emmy Award winner and is among the busiest single-camera television directors, having directed over 160 episodes of television, for series such as NYPD Blue, ER, The West Wing, CSI, Lost, The Shield, House, Law & Order, Monk, Numb3rs, City of Angels, Cold Case, and more recently Sons of Anarchy, The Bastard Executioner, The Mentalist, Weeds, NCIS: Los Angeles, In Treatment, Glee, Smash and The Good Wife, Extant, and Manhattan, Empire, and Scandal. He worked as an executive producer and principal director for Pitch. He was tapped as the executive producer and director of the Shondaland show, Station 19, which follows a group of Seattle firefighters that exist in the Grey’s Anatomy universe and stars Jaina Lee Ortiz, Jason George, Grey Damon, Miguel Sandoval, Jay Hayden, Danielle Savre, Barrett Doss, Okierette Onadowan, and Boris Kodjoe. The show is executive-produced by Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, and Krista Vernoff.

He served two terms as the President of the Directors Guild of America, breaking historical grounds as the first African American and first Gay man to lead the organization. He has been listed by Variety as “one of the 500 most influential business leaders in Hollywood.”

He was born in Chicago Heights. Raised Catholic, he attended La Lumiere School, a private college preparatory boarding school in La Porte, Indiana. On scholarship, he was one of the first African-Americans to attend the school.

He went on to Harvard College, where he was extremely active in student musical theatre productions and the a cappella singing group The Harvard Krokodiloes. During his four years there, he wrote 16 musicals, including the music for two of the annual Hasty Pudding shows. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[mayasdeluca]

i saw a theory on twitter that making jack a dispatcher is their way of introducing a new 911 spinoff for seattle. while i do think ryan murphy's plan is to develop 911 shows in different cities like csi or other shows, it doesn't make sense to me to have one in seattle that is essentially the same show with a different name.

I definitely expect them to expand 911 and do different cities at some point but I don't think Jack being a dispatcher on Station 19 has anything to do with that...why would they indulge in any of that to help 911? ABC has no business asking them to do anything for that after cancelling their show and basically replacing it with said franchise. I really just think it was a way for them to still have Jack included and Peter/Zoanne came up with it themselves. Peter even made a joke about how they couldn't afford to borrow a switchboard from 911 so lol

[femalebookworm]

Okay, then, this is Vital Secrets series (bundle of book 1-3, but as you can tell, reviews will be separate!) is my first read for 2024 (started Jan 2, ended Jan 3, 8pm sharp), picked this set at random after seeing cover with dude holding a gun and some words like, crime, thriller, suspense, detective work etc attached to it. All that, set my mindset for CSI, NCIS; set the standards too high, but the coincidences were piling up too hard and too fast, I just followed the letters on the e-page.

Yeah yeah, I kept the same intro used for the first book, sue me. List of Secrets is about 32% into this bundle, and while I have the separate book status being marked on Goodreads, I could definitely NOT review 3 books in one go; my brain wouldn’t let me. It would also be super long, and I know Goodreads and my blog have limits. Bear with me, I’ll keep the bundle review simple, just one more book guys, gals and inbetweens. NOT SPOILER FREE, read at your own risk.

Oh man, finally got into the groove of this author. They didn’t disappoint. While the first book was detailed enough for the reader to put it together before the main characters, List of Secrets kept the cloak until almost the last chapter. From the-go you have two serial killers, two siblings (in fact), and they both kinda fall in love with target and target adjacent. So many deaths, so many hearts destroyed. So many lies. The last page kinda gave me the feels that the target and target adjacent has something in common to bond over, and maybe it’s twisted to think the author meant they would become friends — or maybe even something more? Don’t know, the sneak peek suggested Joe would join in win the rest of the OG characters for the next book. Not all complaining. Enjoying it, actually.

Oops, my bad, the characters names - Lizzie, a cop from Seattle whose life changing betrayal of bestie and fiancé took her on a trip where she meets a guy she clicks super fast, Landon. Likable characters, I might add. But they soon return to their lives - Seattle vs Texas. They kinda have a long distance relationship. Cool. Normal. Then we have Samantha (was that her name? Cannot remember. Sorry. I suck with names, and this time I didn’t take any notes) hitting a skii class with a retired athlete, Donny, they fall madly in love within three dates or so, same as Lizzie/Landon. However, they do spend a lot of time together before hell breaks loose. While these couples go about their lives, murders are happening all across the globe, some to people who kinda deserve and others, well… leaving you with a question mark on how they were/are important to begin with. Shit happens, and suddenly the puzzles are put together with the joint efforts of Nathan (whose baby was born somewhere along the crazy murders and relationships growing speedily) and Joe (Lizzie’s godfather, and her dad’s old partner). Some other characters were introduced from other districts as well, and wondering if they will return on book 3 (the final one I HAVE) or even later on.

Hmm, what else can I say? I think this is it. The plot twist I didn’t see coming was the family bond. Familiarity, yes - at one point - but not this. Onto the next book as soon as my headache leaves me alone. Maybe will start it tomorrow only and give my brain and eyes some much needed rest.

[julie-finlay]

Finlay Friday

13x08: “CSI on Fire”, script extract ★✨highlights ✨★

[jencsi]

CSI Seattle- opening credits pt 2

[qrrieterisunnq]

J A C Q U E L I N E ♡ C R O S S

BIRTHDAY - January 12, 2000

FAMILY - She is the oldest child of four. She has two brothers, Aaron and Joe, and a sister Becka. Her family lives in Seattle, Oregon. Studied at FBI Academy and was the best in her class. She had only a few boyfriends. Every time, she visits her family she goes on a girly date with her sister, and then on a date with her brother for the football field, training with them. Her dad and she would go for a ride in her old 1967 Chevrolet Camaro and she and mom would go shopping. Her dad is the head chef of BAU in Seattle and her mom works as a hairdresser. Her two brothers are studying and playing football at the University of Washington in Seattle and her sister is still at high school.

CAREER - FBI agent in undercover  

NICKNAMES - Ava Brooks – her undercover name, Jackie, J, Eline – her family, Bambi – Elias, Bullet – Brock, Sunshine - Quinn

PAST - She was a happy, extroverted child, she made friends wherever she came. She was among the favourite and popular people in high school and later at the Academy. She studied at the FBI National Academy Associates, Inc. in Virginia. She was the best in her year, which allowed her to graduate a year earlier, immediately getting a position in the FBI in Seattle. Two years ago, she was assigned to work as an undercover cop in the Vancouver Mafia. Even though it is not in the FBI's jurisdiction, CSIS asked for help, and she was sent as one of the best people in the FBI.

FUN FACTS/BASICS - As a young teenage girl, she loved crime shows on TV, and they have stayed with her until now. One time, when they were working on an investigation, she wasn’t paying attention and walked into glass doors – her colleagues won’t let her live that. She is afraid of onions.

⬅︎masterlist

[g4zdtechtv]

FULL EPISODE: AOTS! - CSI Don’t Think So (2.22.11)

How very Dukes of Hazzard.

[hiromicota]

Washington State teachers deserve better pay

American Federation of Teachers Washington (AFT-WA) has a bill that’s going to the Washington State Senate. 6,500 community & technical college teachers and pre-K-12 classified employees are asking for help in getting adjunct faculty paid a reasonable wage. The bill would require community colleges to pay adjunct faculty at 85% pay parity with full-time faculty members.

Right now, Washington colleges pay part time faculty basically whatever they want. The Seattle Colleges District currently pays adjuncts around 74% of full time faculty. And the AFT local 1789-SCD collective bargaining agreement is likely one of the better agreements! 

The Senate Higher Education and Workforce Development Committee has scheduled a hearing for Senate bill SB 5557 for Friday, February 10th at 10:00 am. If you would like to register a pro position or submit written testimony, you can go to https://app.leg.wa.gov/CSI/ and then

Select Senate

Select Higher Education and Workforce Development

Select the meeting date: 2/10/2023

Select SB 5557 Part-Time Faculty Pay &

Select "Type of Testimony" to add your testimony and/or support.

[wangxianficfinder]

Mafia / Cop / Detective / Thief

~*~

Cop/Detective

When a Bird Flies, It Leaves Feathers by Bem_Kofi (Not Rated, 75k, WangXian, Modern AU, XuanLi, Police, Police Officer LWJ, Medical Examiner WWX, Minor Character Death)

Keep Track of Losing Days by giraffeter (T, 74k, WangXian, NieLan, Modern AU, Case Fic, Police, Missing Persons, Getting Together, Flashbacks, Detective LWJ, antifa WWX, Angst with a Happy Ending, Sharing a Bed, First Meetings, Seattle, Mutual Pining, nonfatal car accident, mafia wens, Mild Hurt/Comfort, Friends to Lovers)

🧡 CSI: Gusu Edition Series by Stratisphyre (M, 39k, WangXian, WWX & LQR, Modern with Magic AU, College AU, Golden Core Reveal, Single parent WWX, Good Uncle LQR, Hospitalization, Allusions to violence and murder)

medium blues by darkterrible (E, 193k, WangXian, Modern AU, Horror, Spooky, Opposites Attract, Fluff and Angst, Gore, Ghosts, Necromancy, Mojo’s post)

Detective, please. by Pitycup_hearts (T, 124k, WangXian, XueXiao, Modern AU, Paranormal, Detectives, paranormal unit, csi, Crime Fighting, Ghosts, Fluff, Angst and Humor, Thriller, WY doesn't die this time, OOC, plot heavy)

🧡 Where's Your Emergency? by trippednfell (M, 64k, WangXian, 911 Dispatcher WWX, Single dad LWJ, Kid fic, Modern AU, D&D Games, Angst with a happy ending)

Torch Song at Nightless City by ArcadianMaggie (M, 11k, WangXian, Film Noir, Detective LWJ, Singer WWX, 1940s, Chinatown, San Francisco, Murder Mystery, Noir, Modern with Magic)

hey now by mellowflicker (E, 8k, WangXian, Modern AU, Detective LWJ, Mutual Pining, Hurt WWX, Hurt/Comfort, a sprinkle of, Gloves, Major Character Injury)

Good For Betting by ana_cp (E, 16k, WangXian, Modern AU, Brooklyn Nine-Nine (TV) Fusion, fake date, Police, Getting Together, Fluff and Smut, Humor, Oblivious WWX, Mutual Pining, Idiots in Love, Co-workers, Police Officer WWX, Police Officer LWJ, POV Alternating, Blow Jobs, Top WWX, Bottom LWJ, Horny WWX)

critical path analysis by chinxe (T, 14k, WangXian, Modern AU, Police, Brooklyn Nine-Nine AU, Pining, Misunderstandings, wwx and lwj are simultaneously the smartest and densest detectives)

Everything’s glacial shine by letterando (T, 3k, WangXian, JC & WWX, WWX & WQ, Modern AU, Bar Room Brawl, Alcohol, Comfort, Fluff, Domestic, Domestic Fluff, Pre-Relationship) - modern mundane AU, featuring the Yunmeng Jiang as gentrified river hicks given to daredevil stunts and barroom brawling. Detective LWJ keeps having to drag WWX off in handcuffs, a ritual both enjoy altogether too much. (The author hints at such a rich backstory, with traumatic military service standing in for the Sunshot Campaign, that I hope they someday continue this universe.)

Mafia

LAOZU (1989) by Machinebender (E, 33k, WangXian, Andrey/Goncharov, Modern AU, Fix-It, Post-Canon Fix-It, Organized Crime, 1980s Shanghai Triads AU, Angst, Oblivious WWX, Goncharov fusion)

Loyalty and Betrayal by VkShinkarenko (E, 100k, WIP, WangXian, Modern AU, Detectives, Canon Divergence, Alternate Universe mafia, Fluff and Smut, Slow Build, Developing Relationship, Spies & Secret Agents, Falling In Love, Domestic Fluff, POV Multiple, Misunderstandings, Mutual Pining, Blood and Gore, Heavy Angst, graphic description of violence, Angst with a Happy Ending, First Time, Love Confessions, Explicit Sexual Content, also on Wattpad, Lealdade e Traição by VkShinkarenko)

🧡 Rule Number One: Never get attached. by KizuKatana (E, 130k, WangXian, Modern AU, A/B/O, Criminal underworld AU, Fluff and angst, Crime boss LWJ, Rouge criminal genius WWX, Explicit Sex)

Miscalculated Misreckoning by LadyVamp (E, 5k, WangXian, Modern AU, Organized Crime, Attempted Kidnapping, Murder Husbands, Blood and Violence, Violent Sex, Married WangXian, BAMF LWJ, BAMF WWX, YLLZ WWX, Hair-pulling, Office Sex, Desk Sex, Dark LWJ, Protective LWJ, Dark WWX, Partners in Crime, Gun Violence, Gun Kink, Crime Syndicate Qíshān Wēn Sect, Arranged Marriage, Crime Lord LWJ, Crime Lord WWX)

Say What's In This Drink? by Pancho (E, 2k, WangXian, Established Relationship, Gun Violence, Violence, Mild Blood, Dark LWJ, Organized Crime, Murder, Crime Boss LWJ)

herd 'em like cattle by mdzsed (E, 3k, WangXian, Modern AU, Blood and Violence, Torture, Murder, Mutilation, Blood and Gore, Age Difference, dark LWJ, Older LWJ, Mafia Boss LWJ, Kidnapped WWX, Date Rape Drug/Roofies, Attempted Rape/Non-Con, Attempted Sexual Assault, Guns, Sexual Assault, Dead Dove: Do Not Eat)

Due Process by Kytrin, Mslead (E, 279k, WangXian, XiChengSang, Poly Junior Quartet, Modern AU, Foxxian, dragonji, Genderfluid WWX, WWX identifies as male, Organized Crime, Grief/Mourning, Hurt/Comfort, mentions of child abuse, Angst with a Happy Ending, Found Family, Reincarnation)

Take Some Advice Paesano by FeelsForBreakfast (M, 8k, wangxian, modern, mob au, mafia the 🤡 version, humor, mistaken identity, getting together)

You & Me Baby, We'll Eclipse The Sun Series by 2501987 (M/E, 130k, WangXian, XiCheng, MIND THE TAGS, Modern AU, Mafia, Murder husbands, Torture, Possessive Behavior, Blood and Violence, Older JC, Younger WWX, Hurt/Comfort, Dark)

of demons and the good they bring by mimi123meg (M, 1k, WangXian, Modern AU, Mob, Crime Boss LWJ, BAMF WWX, BAMF LWJ, BAMF JC, Slight Violence, not too graphic, but definitely there, Established Relationship)

You Only Die Twice by Mikkeneko (T, 11k, WangXian, Modern AU, Assassins/Spies, Assassins & Hitmen, Mafia AU, Action, Moderate Violence, a lot of people die but no named characters, not exactly lan sect friendly, not exactly lan sect critical either, Assassin LWJ, Kindergarten Teacher WWX, coffee shop meet cute, Let LWJ Say Fucks, lightly cracky, Non-Linear Narrative)

Thief

disappear like smoke by jade token (jianghu) (T, 10k, ZhuiYi, Modern AU, Detectives, Thieves, Everyone Lives/Nobody Dies, Meitantei Conan | Detective Conan References, Secret Identity, Pre-Relationship, Fake/Pretend Relationship, Crossdressing, First Meetings)

The Weight Of A Badge by Pancho (M, 19k, wangxian, 1920s au, femme fatale, genderfluid WWX, cat burglar WWX, detective LWJ, mob au, death, guns, violence, implied/referenced incest, QS lives, pining, YLLZ WWX, angst w happy ending)

(i've got) trouble in mind by seularen (E, 76k, wangxian, JGY/LXC, modern w magic, heist au, thief WWX, forger LWJ, consigliere JGY, epistolary, long-distance relationship, d/d elements, Canon wangxian kinks, happy ending)

Crime & Chaos by NebulusCharlie (Not Rated, 24k, WangXian, Crime AU, Modern AU)

❤️ I'd be the one to hold you down (kiss you so hard) by AlfAlfAlfAlfAlf & tardigradeschool (E, 84k, WangXian, XiYao, NieLan, Modern AU, Leverage Fusion, Canon-Typical Violence, Unhealthy Relationships (not wangxian), Depression, JGY typical behavior, Heists, Found Families, Explicit Sexual Content, Minor art theft, Murder, Hurt/Comfort, Angst, Established relationship Wangxian, Marriage, Lan Sibling feels, Jiang sibling feels, Cats, Angst with a Happy Ending, Hijinks & Shenanigans, Therapy, jgy has layers like an onion)

~*~

[goldenraeofsun]

Day 7: Fine Wine

“You aged like fine wine.”

Castiel chokes on his drink. He slowly turns on his barstool to see a stranger swaying slightly in place. A light sheen of grease – or cheap gel – reflects off his hair in the lights behind the bar, and twin lilac bags sag underneath each eye.

“Pardon?” Castiel says. He discreetly sniffs, but the man must have showered more recently than his appearance suggests. Either that, or he simply drank enough so the scent of alcohol masks the smell of body odor.

“You’re Cas – Castiel,” the man says as he braces himself on the bar and laboriously climbs on the stool next to Castiel. He adds, almost accusatory. “Dr. James Novak of Seattle Mercy Hospital.”

Castiel’s jaw drops.

He hasn’t gone by Dr. Novak in close to fifteen years. He was twenty-two when he got his first role on a longstanding medical soap opera (an impossible age for a doctor of his character’s reported caliber, but Castiel was assured this was normal at SMH).

When Dr. Novak was killed off for the sixth and final time, Castiel went on to play a few bit parts in CSI and Law & Order spin offs. He reached the pinnacle of his acting career a few years ago with his starring role in Hell Hazers II and a seven-line part in a Marvel movie. Afterwards, the acting jobs seemed to dry up, or maybe Castiel was tired of the constant sisyphean cycle of auditions chewed him up and spit him out a little worse than before.

Currently, he teaches high school drama in a local private school. While it doesn’t fill him creatively, he can’t say the same for his bank account. 

“I, yes, I was,” Castiel fumbles. He hasn’t gotten recognized since his Dr. Sexy, MD days, and, even then, it didn’t happen frequently.

The man beams, and the smile transforms his face. He looks almost handsome. “Knew it,” he says. “’M Dean.”

“You already know my name,” Castiel replies, unsure of how to proceed. He’d come to the bar for a quiet celebratory drink – he’d finally finished all his college recommendation letters in time for early decision deadlines. On the other hand, Dean wasn’t technically bothering him as Castiel didn’t have many plans to bother.

“Yeah,” Dean agrees with a long sigh. “Figures I’d run into you today.”

Castiel has no idea what that means.

Dean points a shaking finger in Castiel’s face. “You’re the reason I became a doctor.”

Castiel’s mouth falls open. After a beat, he forces out, “You’re not serious.”

“As a heart attack.” Dean chuckles, the sound grim and humorless.

“I – I’m sorry?” Castiel tries, feeling entirely off balance with the abrupt turn of their conversation.

“Don’t be,” Dean says bitterly. “Not your fault I killed a patient today.”

Castiel shoves his horror down. With a determinedly neutral expression, he says, “I’m sure it’s not your fault,” because he didn’t act in 147 episodes of a medical soap opera for nothing.

Dean shakes his head, tapping the bar to get the bartender’s attention. “A double of Jack for me, and one more of whatever my friend here is drinking.”

As the bartender moves back down the bar to prepare Dean’s order, Castiel frowns. “Are you sure you should be having another?”

Dean scowls. “’M not on call for another 48 hours.”

Castiel gives him a deliberate once-over. “I was referring to your current state of drunkenness.”

Dean waves his concern away. “’M fine.”

“You don’t seem fine.”

Dean exhales an explosive sigh. “You fuck up a aortic dissection repair on a twelve-year-old who just wanted to perform in her school dance recital next month, and tell me you’re all hunky dory after.”

He’s a surgeon. A pediatric cardiac surgeon.

Castiel inspired a pediatric surgeon?

He leans in, his heart twinging in sympathy for both Dean and his late patient. “I’m sure there were complications.”

Dean mutters, “High blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes.”

Castiel lays a hand on Dean’s arm. “I may not be a real doctor, but I spoke often enough with our medical experts to know those aren’t inconsequential conditions when it comes to your specialty.” 

Dean harrumphs and greedily grabs the drink the bartender sets down before the pair of them. He takes a long pull of his whiskey. “But enough about me. How come you quit acting?”

Castiel shrugs. “It’s a hard life,” he says vaguely, continuing as Dean makes a go on gesture with his free hand. “I was tired of not landing parts and struggling to make my rent each month. I gave it until I turned thirty, and, well, you can guess what happened next.”

Dean snorts into his glass. “At thirty, I wasn’t even done with my residency.” He casts Castiel a surprisingly shrewd look for how much he’s had to drink. “I think you gave up too early. You were doing good stuff.”

Castiel’s biggest sore spot throbs painfully. “Forgive me for tiring of living off PB&Js and inhabiting a technically illegal bedroom according to the housing code of Los Angeles.”

But Dean just huffs a dry laugh. “You haven’t suffered until you try to convince your way too smart younger brother that fluff marshmallow mix and macaroni is exotic and not a move of pure desperation.”

Castiel chokes on his next sip. “That sounds horrendous,” he says, his temper softening.

“Yeah, well, it was food, so,” Dean shrugs, “he ate it eventually. There weren’t that many options while snowed in at the Royale Motel in Scranton.” He tips back the rest of his drink. “We moved around a lot, growing up,” he says, spinning the empty glass between his fingers. “Sometimes the only things I could rely on were the daytime soaps.”

Castiel’s heart breaks. “I would have thought you would have become an actor, in that case.”

Dean laughs. “My old man said actors made shit money, so I picked something else.”

Castiel can’t help rolling his eyes, chuckling lightly under his breath. “Your father was right.”

“Guess so,” Dean says thoughtfully. “D’you miss it?”

Castiel nods. “Every day.”

Dean leans in and lays his hand over Castiel’s. He throws a significant glance at their empty glasses. “Whaddya say we get out of here?” he asks in a suggestive voice.

Castiel blinks. “I – I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

Dean pulls back at once, but not before Castiel catches the hurt on his face.

“You’re drunk,” Castiel says gently. “I wouldn’t want to take advantage.”

Dean grunts but gets to his feet without arguing. “’S fine,” he mutters. “Had to shoot my shot, right?”

“Of course,” Castiel says, not exactly sure what he’s agreeing to, but it’s evidently the right thing to say since Dean just nods and starts to walk away, reaching into his jacket. But, to Castiel’s alarm, he pulls out a set of car keys instead of his phone to call a taxi.

Castiel hurries after him. “Dean!” he calls.

Outside the bar, Dean turns around, a smirk playing across his lips. “Change your mind, big guy?”

“What? No,” Castiel says as Dean tenses. “But you can’t drive,” he says helplessly.

Dean scowls. “I’m not that drunk.”

“I’m pretty sure you are.”

Dean rolls his eyes so hard Castiel is surprised they don’t pop out of his skull. “Out of the two of us, only one has a real medical license.”

Castiel crosses his arms over chest. “If you won’t call a cab, come to my apartment. It’s just down the street.”

Dean step forward, and Castiel lets out a silent sigh of relief. “Your apartment?” he repeats. 

“So you can sober up,” Castiel says resolutely. 

Dean shoves his hands in his pockets. “Lead the way, Dr. Novak.”

* * *

Castiel wakes up with a crick in his neck and a shooting pain in his lower back. He never made it to bed after talking with Dean for hours on his sofa in his living room.

A muttered swear comes from behind him, and Castiel cranes his head around to see Dean, still wearing his clothes from last night, bent over Castiel’s finicky coffee machine.

“You have to flip the switch on the side,” he tells Dean as he gets to his feet.

“Mornin’,” Dean says with a grin. “Thanks for letting me stay over.”

“Thanks for not throwing up on my couch and trying to make me coffee.” Castiel slides around Dean to open the cabinet with his mugs. He pulls out his favorite sky blue cup.

“C’mon, I wasn’t that bad.”

After some rooting around, Castiel finds the novelty Dr. Sexy, MD mug he received in a gift basket on his last day of filming. 

Dean laughs out loud as he takes it from Castiel. “It’s even got his cowboy boots!” he exclaims as he inspects it from every angle. 

Castiel nods, turning so Dean can’t see his smile. “You’re welcome to take it,” he says. “I have far more mugs than I need for one person.”

“Aw man, don’t tell me that,” Dean groans, “or else I’ll actually do it.”

“Take it,” Castiel says firmly as he pours coffee into Dean’s new mug. 

Dean cradles to his chest, breathing in deeply. He inhales half of it in one go, to Castiel’s concern. “Christ, that’s the stuff.” He meets Castiel’s astounded gaze with a little grin. He polishes off his cup in the same time it takes Castiel to add enough sugar and cream to his satisfaction. “Coffee is practically a pro sport for surgeons; you have no idea. But I’ll get out of your hair after this,” Dean says, an apologetic note to his words, “but do you mind if I leave my number before I head out?”

Castiel gapes at him before he realizes Dean doesn’t see his answer as so obvious it goes without saying. “Yes, of course,” he says in a rush, half a beat too late. 

Dean grins. “Awesome. You were always on my celebrity hall pass list.” At Castiel’s furrowed look of confusion, Dean’s smile broadens. “You know, that list of longshots that’ll never happen so you might as well give your girlfriend the OK to sleep with Idris Elba or Hugh Jackman or Chris Hemsworth.”

Castiel watched enough Marvel movies to prepare for his own role to know what all those actors look like. “I’m nothing like those men,” he splutters.

“Well, yeah, everyone has a weird one – my last boyfriend would’ve fucked Scar from the Lion King if given half the chance.”

“A flattering comparison,” Castiel deadpans as Dean chuckles.

Once Dean washes out his mug (he insists on it), grabs his jacket, and inputs his phone number in Castiel’s cell, there’s no reason for him to linger. 

Castiel awkwardly trades goodbyes on his threshold before he shuts the door behind Dean. 

He thinks about calling for the rest of the day. Dean is his first thought on Saturday morning too, but he concludes it’s too soon.

He debates reaching out on Sunday, but 48 hours have passed since their first meeting, so Dean’s probably in surgery. It’s clearly a bad time to make contact. 

By Monday, Castiel talks himself out of it altogether. Dean is a pediatric surgeon at one of the most prestigious hospital systems in the county (Castiel looked him up on the off chance Dean wasn’t being truthful, but his degrees are published on the hospital website for all to see.)

Dean saves lives every day. 

Castiel is a washed up actor who peaked a decade ago. The closest he got to saving a life was convincing Siobhan that getting bangs a week before school picture day would not be in her best interest.

But Castiel won’t let his strange run in with Dean mean nothing. In a fit of productivity one weekend, exactly one month after Dean stayed the night at his apartment, he stops by the local theater and marks down the day of their next auditions.

In January, he tries out for a small play written by a local playwright, and wins a part. Not the lead, but a good, meaty character part. 

He mostly forgets about Dean in between classes and his own rehearsals – until the director hands out their complimentary tickets. None of Castiel’s family live in the area, and his friend, Meg, is out of town that week. 

As Castiel wracks his brains for someone to invite, he can’t help but keep coming back to Dean. 

He chickens out of actually calling Dean and instead sends him a picture of the tickets with the date prominently displayed and a short text, “If you’d like to come.”

Dean texts back four hours later.

Dean Winchester 5:22 Sorry surgery just ended Of course I wouldn’t miss *the* Castiel DeAngelos’s big comeback!