#resident lover elena

[brisa-art]

This Elena also works in the cafeteria and uses her airbending to sabotage Cassandra when she tries to impress some girl.

[thegoodending-thelasttime]

a few RL memes

the battle Mc's referring to is miranda

[maxity666]

I made some memes, mostly Daniela appreciation cause i'm obsessed with my silly jock herbo :)) <3 <3 (also swap Elena for Danielas skateboard buddies in her case)

[kaistrashbin]

I'm having way too much fun now

[rosestarlightkatarina]

Then who are they?🤨

[bibliomorgan]

Playing @resident-lover by Team Avia and...

Yeah that's right, you reader who is thirsting about the huge and monumental talents of Alcina Dimitrescu, I'm talking to you.

No health insurance will give you a good review, y'all.

"How do I call the tall hot vampire who is my teacher too?" - Dear Mommy D, that's the name. Could be Domme D, but the last option of the game hits hard this spot.

This dorm room is full of weird shenanigans.

Part 1 of 3

[thyhauntedmansion]

Since they often end up on opposing sides, occasional acquaintances turned on eachother by differing morals, beliefs, and end goals, battling until they are battered and bloody, despite knowing the ultimate outcome:

Would they be doomed to the same fate in another world?

Cassandra betrayed by her only friend?.. sound familiar?

[everythingoiezoie]

"Something about Elena is so personable, and you realize it is very easy to act like you two have known each other forever."

Meanwhile... Elena...

[revillagenews]

Elena is the best and she's amazing. And Duck, the drinks she makes are effing good (note: would 100% betray Miranda for Cafe drinks)

In other words, appreciate your local barista who deals with a lot

[mikasa-imadebiscults]

The Show’s Over..

(A/N- IT’S MY ULTIMATE REVEAL @oneginn and @isas-bathbombs, I AM THE ⚔️ ANON. For real though, I had fun sending those asks to y’all)

RL! Cassandra Dimitrescu x FEM! Reader

(Warning: Angst, swearing, implied NSFW but no details, betrayal, fighting, blood, and death)

Now playing: “Love is Gone” by SLANDER

Cassandra Dimitrescu, the middle sibling of the three sisters, the famous resident playgirl of Miranda’s All Girls University. Never thought she would find true love, let alone someone actually loving her for who she is. She accepted the fact that no one could love her for her, but that all changed when you came along.

You were special, you never went after her fame or wealth. You loved her, or at least that’s what Cassandra always thought. The thing is..before you started dating her she slept with your best friend and played her. Leaving your dear best friend heartbroken.

You still remember that night. The night where your best friend called you frantically over the phone sobbing, explaining everything. The sound of the sorrowful voice on the other line infuriated you. You couldn’t even fathom how anyone could hurt someone like that, and just for the hell of it?

That same exact night, you silently decided that you will get vengeance for your best friend’s shattered heart. As many different ideas of sweet revenge went through your mind, you came up with your plan. You were going to get close to Cassandra and get into a relationship with her, then when she’s in her most vulnerable moment rip the “sweet” relationship away from her.

....

Today marks the five month anniversary of you and Cassandra’s relationship and y’all spent the day together, of course the day ended with you two having sex and afterwards sleeping in each other’s arms. Though usually Cassandra doesn’t sleep because of her reoccurring nightmares, so she just watches you sleep while smiling to herself thinking of how lucky she is.

She was so comfortable though, even more comfortable than usual. So consequently sleep consumed her, it only took a couple minutes until the dreadful nightmares appeared again.

Ever since she started dating you the nightmares have been about the same topics; you using her for money and fame or you suddenly abandoning her. Cassandra never told you what those reoccurring nightmares were about, her pride is too strong. So usually she just suffered in silence, dealing with the sadness and insecurities alone.

But things were different this time. The current nightmare that consumed her was by far the worst she’s ever experienced. Her eyes shot open, she wanted to scream but couldn’t; the anxiety gripping at her throat and tensing up her muscles. Cassandra closed her eyes and tried to do some breathing techniques to relax herself, being mindful to not wake you up.

She opened her eyes slowly and saw a figure sitting on the edge of the bed. It was you. Cassandra’s heart races a tad bit more due to the startled feeling, which didn’t last for more than a few seconds. She sits up and goes next to you, grabbing your hand tightly.

“Nightmare?” You guessed, fighting a smile from forming and messing up your concerned facade.

“Yeah.” Cassandra responded, putting her head on your shoulder.

“I would ask if you’d like to talk about it but-”

“I do. I wanna talk about it, I can’t hold this in anymore.” She suddenly confessed, a few small tears forming in her eyes as she felt the weight of her held in emotions weighing down on her.

“Oh- that’s surprising, well, go ahead I’m all ears.” You said, wrapping your arm around her.

Cassandra breathes in for a moment, she hesitates to tell you but after feeling your hand squeeze her arm reassuringly that was enough for her to talk. “Y’know before I met you, everyone that I slept with wanted me for only my looks, fame, money, you name it. Like being rich and famous is cool and all but it’s so damn exhausting sometimes.” Cassandra voice wavered and cracked, a few tears falling from her eyes.

“Oh..” is all you can manage to say. Damn you didn’t expect to feel sorry for her. Did your best friend really use her? No it can’t be- was your caring best friend really like that? Suddenly the original intention of vengeance disappeared and conflicting feelings overwhelmed your brain.

A part of you felt bad for your best friend getting their heart broke..but did you really know them? The sudden disappearance of vengeance felt weird and confusing since you were so accustomed to the feeling by now.

Your complex thoughts were interrupted by a hand on your chest. “Let’s go on a date, it’s our five month anniversary after all.” Cassandra said as if nothing ever happened.

You blink twice as you looked at her in shocked, “Uhh- it’s technically the next day..it’s midnight.”

“And? I can still take you on dates whenever I want.” Cassandra declared, sitting up straight before getting up from the soft sheets of the bed. “So what do you say my dear?”

You chuckle lightly at Cassandra’s dramatic mannerisms, watching as she already started getting ready, “Sure since you already decided for me.”

“Oh you know you can’t say no to me.”

....

You arrived at the same coffee shop that you two usually go to. Not that you minded, you really don’t need anymore chaos to flood your thoughts. When you walked in Elena was there at the counter, looking at the both of you with her usual blank expression.

Cassandra waves at her before turning to you, “Go find us a seat pretty girl, I’ll order for us. You want your usual right?”

“Yeah the usual, I’ll be over there.” You pointed to the corner of the shop before walking there to have a seat. Looking around you noticed that there was no customers besides y’all, understandable considering how late it was. It was peaceful.

You see Cassandra from afar, talking and paying for the order before walking off to the restroom. You played with the sleeve of your (Cassandra’s) sweater while you waited. Just then you hear the sound of the door bell jingle, quietly signifying that someone has entered the shop. Looking up in curiosity you saw the one person that you didn’t want to see, at least not until you got your emotions all sorted out.

Unfortunately they saw you and walked over smiling, looking to start an unwanted conversation “Hey I didn’t expect you to be here at this hour, what’s up?”

“Uhh I wasn’t able to sleep so-” you lied, they nodded their head in acknowledgment before examining you for a second and their expression changed.

“Wh- why do you have Cassandra’s sweater on?”

There was an uncomfortable silence for a moment. A ironically loud silence. Clearing your throat, trying to think of some excuse. Two hands suddenly grabbed your shirt and yanked you outta your seat, now standing toe to toe against your best friend. They look at you with eyes filled with betrayal and rage.

“I see now, so this is the real you? A two-bit slut that would fuck anyone if given the opportunity.” They said with hostility in their voice.

At this point you had no choice but to tell the truth about the whole vengeance plan. As you open your mouth to speak you gasp at the sudden pain right on your lower stomach. The blood splattered on the floor, luckily the wound wasn’t deep enough to hit your organs but it sure as hell did some damage to your stomach fat protecting that vital organ.

Adrenaline course through your veins causing the pain to become no more, but you just stood in place due to the amount of shock you’re enduring. You step back just to fall and land on your back to the advantage of your now ex best friend.

Is this your demise? Is this really how you go out?

They get on top of you, holding the small metal knife to your throat so closely that you can feel the edge of the blade and the warmth of your blood on it.

“Wait..let me explain” You breathed out before continuing, “I originally dated Cass to break her heart and get vengeance for you but..she got me actually falling in love. I’m sorry my friend that I was selfish. I guess Karma’s a bitch huh.”

“Yeah..she’s a bitch.” They said before fatally stabbing you in the throat, the blade all the way inside.

Bittersweet memories of your relationship with Cassandra flooded your mind, you were suddenly so aware of your heart racing a tiny bit whenever you were around her, the subtle actions you did without even noticing. Cassandra really had you wrapped around her finger without you even realizing it. Wow, after everything how could you betray your own best friend like this? Maybe you were the bad guy after all.

With ears ringing and your vision slowly beginning to fade into darkness, you see Cassandra standing over near the bloody scene with a sinister smile on her face, “The shows over, my love~”

Masterlist

[maxity666]

RL MEME DUMP IS BACK BABY

@weirdway-jester this is for u

Some of these memes don't make sense cause they have my own headcanons in mind, but what I will say is I HC Angie as nonbinary :D also that shes smarter than she lets on and she uses this to troll people

[halewynslady]

Side quest to free Elena?

Elena NOOOOOO! I am this far in and now she hits me with this? Rip headstone my Elena hopes.

[neos-schlond-poofa]

The Parallels of Resident Lover

It is common knowledge within the Resident Lover fandom that there are many parallels in the game, namely Miranda and Bela. However. I am here to tell you there is a much more extreme and serious parallel, one that no one else has pointed out before.

Alcina Dimitrescu and Lois Griffin are parallels of each other. I know, I know, your mind MIGHT be blown right now, to the point where you don't get it. But do not fret, fellow Resident Lovers, for I am here to elaborate on the truth.

EXHIBIT A: APPEARANCES

It is no secret that both Alcina and Lois are, well, attractive. Lois Griffin is consistently called one of the hottest mothers in animation, while Alcina has a fanbase of dedicated people purely because of her appearance. These two ladies are naturally attractive; some people even call them MILFS. It's not just how hot the two are; they have different little things scattered throughout that are obviously meant to mirror each other. Lois has bright red lipstick, referencing her still mainly happy attitude, while Alcina has dark red lipstick, highlighting the dark secrets she holds. They both have earings; the earrings that Lois wears are much more modest, as she is a simple housewife that doesn't want to show off, while Alcina is rich and always ready to stun. They both wear pants. They both have short hair, representing their bold and headstrong attitudes, and it is styled in such a classy manner that upon seeing them, you know they will not mess around. Alcina is also canonically in her mid 40s, while Lois is 44.

Exhibit B: Parenthood

It can be argued that Alcina and Lois aren't the best mothers. And for the most part, neither of them even realize their faults. Furthermore, their children are all parallels of each other.

Bela and Chris - Blonde

Dani and Meg - Obvious Least Favorite

Cass and Stewie - Gays with a flair for the dramatic and their own silly best friends; Cass has Elena while Stewie has Rupert

This obviously it not a coincidence. The RL team is dedicated to making sure everything has meaning, including the own family dynamics present in their families.

Lois wasn't always a terrible mother. In early seasons, she could even be considered a good mother, even if she was sometimes a bit selfish. This is just like Alcina, but instead of it being early in the game, it is the interpretation of Alcina put in by the developers. Alcina being a bad mom in contrast to her amazing parenting skills in the original game is meant to specifically reference Lois randomly becoming a terrible mother.

Exhibit C: Their Own Families

Alcina and Lois both come from rich and powerful families. Alcina is from the Dimitrescu bloodline, while Lois is from the Pewterschmidt bloodline. Through their families, they both have a lot of money and property. Alcina most notably owns the manor present in the game and a castle, while Lois once inherits her aunt's mansion in the season 2 premiere, "Peter, Peter, Caviar Eater." While Lois opts to have a much more quiet and normal life, her family's worth can not be ignored. Having Alcina actively embrace the wealth her family brings contrasts Lois in such a stark way. After all, to be a parallel doesn't mean to be a carbon copy. They are not equal triangles; they are congruent.

Additionally, they both have odd brothers that they do not make much reference to and prefer to forget. Lois has Patrick and Alcina has Karl. One important thing to note is that Patrick's original voice actor was Robert Downey Jr. whilst Karl's last name is Heisenberg, the alias of Walter White. Who else is in the TV show of Walter White which is called Breaking Bad? Krysten Ritter, who plays Jessica Jones in the MCU. You see, it is easily all connected if you just take your thinking caps and your magnifying glass and look a bit close at the context clues.

Exhibit D: A Love For The Arts

What is Alcina and Lois, without their love for the arts? It is no secret that Alcina is a connoisseur of arts. She even teaches Women in Art at the university. She lives for art, and even expects her children to be the same way. Meanwhile, while it is less obvious for Lois, she is easily a huge fan of art. The biggest example is in the season 2 episode, "The King Is Dead," where she is committed to having the perfect play and gets mad when Peter "ruins" it. She appreciates the arts, and to see them be disrespected hurts her. Lois is also a teacher; while she is mainly known for being a housewife, she has had multiple different jobs, including once being a music teacher at school in the episode "Connie's Celica" in season 18 and consistently being a piano teacher throughout the series. Lois is a gifted piano player and is the main aspect of the arts she appreciates. For most people, they associate her piano playing with the opening of the TV Series, which goes from her casually playing the piano to a Broadway style number, which is obviously what inspired the decision to make Cass a theatre kid.

Exhibit E: Jazz Singers

While this may seem very minor, it is not. In the original game, Alcina was previously a jazz singer. Her favorite music genre is definitely jazz and she has a deep love for it. Meanwhile, Lois Griffin occasionally sings jazz throughout the series and the earliest prominent example of this in the series is the season 1 episode, "Mind Over Murder," where she begins to sing at the bar located in the basement of her house. Jazz is integral to Alcina... but would that be so true if Lois was not once a jazz singer? Her interest in jazz only exists because of Lois's connections to jazz as Alcina was directly written to be a parallel of her.

IN CONCLUSION

It is undeniable that Alcina was created to be a direct parallel to Lois Griffin. Her story simply wouldn't have the same emotional impact as it does if not for this. There is so much more that can be expanded upon as well, as I only scratched the surface of their parallels. I would like to thank Seth MacFarlane for making this all possible with the creation of Family Guy, and the Resident Lover Team for creating such a moving story. Truly, we need to stop this talk about the "Miranda and Bela" parallels now that I have revealed the truth. And, of course, you're welcome Resident Lover Team, for finally spreading the truth I know you've deeply been wishing to be discovered. Especially you, @dead-finch-420, mainly because I had to utilize some of your art pieces to make this post explaining what I'm sure you knew as you drew some of these pieces.

[middleearthpixie]

Better Days ~ Chapter Four (was Human Touch)

A/N - I changed the title because I think this fits better. Sorry for any confusion. 😁

Summary: Frerin Durin had the perfect life, until he found out his wife was cheating on him. Now, he’s navigating uncharted territory as an about-to-be divorced single dad. Dating is a mess, he’s dealing with the fallout where his kids are concerned, and really, he would just love a vacation away from all of it. 

Elena Madison is new to Sidleburg, new to the history department at the high school, and also navigating life as a newly single parent. The last thing she needed was for her daughter to come down sick, when she hasn’t even had time to unpack the moving boxes, never mind find a pediatrician. And the last thing she ever expected was to meet a man like Dr. Frerin Durin…

Neither Elena nor Frerin were looking for anything, but fate has a way of messing up even the best laid plans. However, both have been hurt and both aren't at all sure they trust themselves, never mind trusting someone else...

Pairings:  Modern!Frerin  x ofc Elena Madison

Characters: Frerin, Flynn, Maura, Jake, Elena, Alyssa

Warnings: None

Rating: T

Word Count: 6.9k

Tag List: @mrsdurin @i-did-not-mean-to @lathalea @linasofia @fizzyxcustard @legolasbadass @kibleedibleedoo @xxbyimm @arrthurpendragon @exhausted-humxn-being @rachel1959 @laurfilijames @sketch-and-write-lover @sherala007 @enchantzz @knittastically @notlostgnome @myselfandfantasy @medusas-hairband @guardianofrivendell @jotink78 @sorisooyaa @ruthoakenshield @frosticenow @quiall321 @dianakc @buckybarnes-thorin @glassgulls @evenstaredits @heilith @asgardianhobbit98 @albionscastle @absentmindeduniverse @way-too-addicted-to-fandoms @sazzlep

If you’d like to be added (or removed) to the tag list, please just let me know!

Previous chapters can be found here. 

Frerin yanked off the black mock turtleneck he’d just pulled over his head and hurled it toward the hamper. Christ, it’d been two decades since he’d had to worry about making a good impression on a first date and he’d forgotten what a pain in the ass it could be. And while this wasn't his first date since he and Toni split up, it was the first one where he was this concerned about making a good impression. The last time he’d had to worry about it, he was a cocky nineteen year old more concerned with figuring out how to get into Toni Francetti’s jeans than he was with making a good impression. 

Of course, he found his way into those Guess jeans and ten months later, he then found himself newly married, staring down at his newborn son, wondering just how the hell he was going to finish college and support a family at the same time. Toni wasn't supposed to get pregnant. They’d only been out a couple of times and he was seeing a couple of other girls on campus as well, and neither one of them had said anything about being exclusive. Never mind being young and stupid. Young and stupid and drunk at a frat party when they got carried away. But, her family had money and her father made it clear to him that walking away was not an option. So, thanks to Toni’s family, he was able to finish college, and medical school, while she stayed home first with Flynn, and then with Maura, and then finally with Jake. 

He was far from a perfect husband. School, residency, working his way to an attending position meant time away from home, away from the family. He’d come very close to having an affair with a charge nurse, but stopped it before it went beyond a steamy kiss in the parking deck. He’d come clean to Toni and they tried to salvage their relationship, deciding to try for their third and final child, but in the end, it was Toni’s affair with a boy only slightly older than Flynn that delivered the final blow. 

He had to admit, it was for the best for all of them. The kids were adapting to their new lives and with far less tension in the house, they were all better for it. If he was absolutely honest with himself, he and Toni never should have gotten married in the first place. They were too young. Too selfish. Too immature. 

Of course, at the same time, he wouldn’t trade those kids for anything. 

He sighed as he tugged open the door to the walk-in closet and flipped the light switch. The closet ran the length of the bedroom, and was almost a room in itself. When Toni still lived there, they divided it half but since she’d moved out, he’d taken it over and had more space than he really knew what to do with. Suits and trousers and shoes were on one side, more casual clothes on the other. He peered out the window overlooking the front yard to see it was snowing lightly. Maybe they’d have a white Christmas. It’d be the first one in years. He and Flynn spent the previous weekend putting out the Christmas lights, while Maura and Jake took care of decorating inside the house. They did their Christmas baking last weekend and they would spend Christmas Eve with him, but Christmas Day with their mother and he didn't want to think about that. It wasn't the first Christmas he wouldn’t see them, after all when he was an intern and then a resident, his schedule included nights, weekends, holidays. Now that he ran the department, he had a bit more say in his schedule, but he also made sure he pulled his fair share of crappy shifts along with the other docs on his service.

Frerin frowned as he flipped through the rack of button down shirts, then moved to the stack of cubes where he kept tee shirts and long-sleeved shirts neatly folded. He chose a black henley and tugged it over his head, then moved to the mirror in the middle of the closet. Better than the mock turtleneck by far. Why did he even still have those stupid mock turtlenecks? He never wore them. Toni’s mother bought them every Christmas for him and they remained folded and unworn all year long. 

He flipped off the light as he left the closet and closed the door behind him, then moved to the chair under the dormer window in the far corner to pull on his favorite pair of shoes—brown Doc Martens Crazy Horse boots. 

The kids were in the family room, and he paused in the doorway and just watched them—Flynn and Maura were watching The Mandalorian, Jake was doing his homework. “Okay, guys, behave. I’m heading out. Jake, Maur, Flynn’s in charge and don't give him any trouble.”

As Flynn offered up a smug smile, Frerin was quick to add, “And no abusing your power, or else I put Jake in charge next time.”

“Nice,” Jake said, offering up his best impression of an evil smile.

Maura looked over her shoulder at him. “Have fun on your date, Dad. Be careful.”

“It’s just dinner, I doubt I’m in any danger.”

“Still, be careful.”

“I will, Mom.”

That earned him a smile and she turned back to the television. “Have fun.”

“I will. I won’t be too late and I’ve got my cell on.” He lifted his jacket up from where it lay across the back of the sofa. “Jake, bed by nine.”

“Dad, can’t I stay up a little later?”

“No. Bed by nine.”

“Man…”

“I’ll see you guys later. Like I said, I won’t be too late.”

“Don't hurry on account of us,” Flynn told him with utter seriousness, “especially if she’s cute.”

“That’s enough.”

“He’s right, Dad. You have our permission to have fun.”

“What kind of fun can they have over dinner?” Jake asked.

“You’d be amazed,” Maura told him.

“Enough.” Frerin dug his keys from the jacket pocket, and moved to the front door. As he pulled the door shut behind him, it was as Jake was asking one of them to explain what kind of fun they meant.

A sigh touched his lips as he walked down to his car. In the year since he and Toni separated, Maura and Flynn seemed okay with the few dates he went on, but this was the first Jake really paid any attention to it. And while he’d been out a few times over the course of the last year, he hadn’t slept with any of the women he’d dated, and he had no intentions of bringing any women home to spend the night unless there was actually a possible future, and since that was something he was not looking for right now…

He sank into the leather seat and turned over the engine, then got the heat going. As he backed down the wide drive, he tried not think about how quiet the house would be in the coming days. He didn't like it when the kids were at their mother’s, when the house was too quiet for his liking. He and Toni had worked out visitation with only a little fighting, and while they’d been doing this since the summer, Frerin still wasn’t used to the silence that came with an empty house.

The only good thing was he’d be able to get his Christmas shopping done before his shift began Saturday. Of course, that meant he’d have to wrap everything, which he did not look forward to doing. He sucked at it and as a result, Toni usually wrapped everything but her own gifts. 

“I’ll worry about that Saturday,” he muttered as he eased to a stop at the end of their street and peered into the mirror. He scowled, raked his fingers through the dark hair that would be curly if only he’d let it. That was how he knew when he needed a hair cut, when it refused to lay in any way that wasn't bushy. “I should do like Thorin and just let it grow out.”

He was just pulling into traffic when his cell rang. Leda. “Hey, what’s up?”

“I’m sorry to bug you, Frerin,” she said. “And I hope I’m not calling at a bad time, but Andrea’s temp has gone up.”

He shifted into Drive. “What’s it gone up to?”

“One-oh-one and she’s really cranky.”

“She’s most likely uncomfortable from the fever. Have you given her anything?”

“Some Tylenol about half an hour ago.”

“Give it some time to work. Do you want me to come by and take a look at her?”

Leda hesitated. “Are you home?”

“On my way out, but it’s no problem to swing by.”

“Are you on call tonight?”

“No. Believe it or not, I’ve got a date.”

“What?”

He grinned. “Yeah. But, she’ll probably understand if I call and tell her I’ll be a little late.”

“No, God, don't do that. I’ll give it another half hour or so and try her temp again.”

“Leda, it’s not a problem if—”

“No, Frerin, please don't change your plans. I know I’m just being a nervous mom, but—”

“Leda, it really won’t be a big deal. If it’ll give you some peace of mind, I’ll call Elena and tell her I’ll be a little late. She’s a mom herself. She’ll understand.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. I’ll be there in just a few minutes.”

“Okay. But only if you’re sure.”

“Leda.”

“Bye, Frerin.”

He grinned as the call disconnected and he pulled up Elena’s number, smiling as she said, “Hello?”

“Hi, Elena, it’s Frerin. Durin.”

“I know it’s you,” a smile came through in her voice, “your name comes up with your number, remember. What’s up?”

“Uh, I’m going to be a little late. My sister-in-law, the one with the twins, just called. Her daughter’s temperature’s gone up again so I told her I’d stop by. I know you were planing dinner for six, so if you want to do this another night, I’d understand.”

“I’ll keep a plate warmed for you.” She hesitated, then added, “Unless you’d rather do this another night.”

“Whichever is easiest for you. I don't usually do house calls, but it’s my brother’s kids, so—”

“No, you don't have to explain. Family comes first.” She cleared her throat. “So, if you still want to come by—”

“I do, Elena. It shouldn’t take me long.”

“Okay. Then swing by when you’re done. Unless it’s really late, that is.”

“It shouldn’t be. But, what do you consider really late?”

“Eleven?”

He grinned. “I won’t be that late. I promise you that. I’ll let you know if anything changes, but I think my niece just has a cold.”

“Take your time. Chicken isn’t going anywhere.”

“I’ll call you when I’m leaving Thorin’s, okay?”

“Sounds good. See you later, then.”

“You will.”

 She clicked off and he drummed his fingers lightly against the steering wheel as he made a left onto Willoughby and headed out toward Route Seven. Thorin and Leda lived on the northwestern side of Sidleburg, in a dark gray Victorian with Pacific blue trim on three acres of land. A silver Honda Accord and a white Jeep Grand Cherokee sat in the driveway, with Thorin’s antique Mustang most likely in the detached garage, and he eased to a stop behind the Jeep. Snow began falling as he climbed out and made his way up to the wide, wraparound porch. 

Leda must have been watching for him, for the door opened before he could even reach for the doorbell. Her eyes were heavy-lidded, with dark circles smudging beneath them. She wore no makeup and her long blonde hair looked like she had a permanent case of bedhead. “Hey, Frerin, thank you so much.”

“No problem, Leda.” He stomped the snow from his boots before stepping over the threshold. “When was the last time you slept?”

“Uh… what day is it?”

“Leda.”

“I know,” she rubbed her face with both hands, then lowered them to add, “but Thorin’s got his hands full with the Dunraven and neither James nor Andrea is sleeping much, so…”

“I told her I can handle it,” Thorin thumped into the room, his screaming son in his arms, “but she’s fucking stubborn.”

“Thorin,” Leda spun around to glare at him, “that doesn’t help anything.”

Thorin rolled his eyes, gently bouncing James against his shoulder. “Neither does you being a zombie, Leda.”

“I am fine!”

“Okay, guys, don’t start fighting just yet. Let me take a look, okay?” Frerin cleared his throat as he reached for James. “Hey, little man, shhh… giving Mom and Dad a hard time?”

The baby let out a cry as Frerin laid his hand across James’ forehead. “He’s warm. What was his temp last time you took it?”

Thorin rubbed his forehead. “Uh… just below a hundred, I think.”

“Have you given him anything?”

Another shrill cry rang out, this one from the living room to his right and Leda tripped over her own two feet as she went to fetch Andrea. 

“Thorin?”

“No. Not yet.” Like his wife, Thorin’s eyes were ringed with bruise like smudged and his forehead furrowed as if thinking was hard to do. “I’m sorry, Frer. I’m so fucking tired, I can’t even see straight right now.”

“Yeah, I know the feeling well.” Frerin sighed. “Get the Tylenol and let’s give him some and see if that helps.”

“I thought fevers were good?”

“They are. It means their immune systems are working, but they’re miserable, Thorin. There’s no reason for any of you to suffer if none of you has to. Give them the Tylenol and hopefully they’ll sleep. And you and Leda both need to get some sleep as well.”

“Yeah, tell me something I don't already know,” Thorin growled as he thumped toward the kitchen. “How did you do this and get through med school and residency? How do you work those shifts still?”

“Toni took care of the kids when I was a resident and now? I’m used to it, more or less. And trust me, it will get easier. Sooner than you think and faster than you can imagine.” Frerin smoothed a hand over James’ hair, which was thicker and even blacker than his sister’s. The baby quieted against him, while his sister’s screams made up for it, and Leda looked ready to cry as she came back into the family room. 

Two pack’n plays were set up by the sofa, and Frerin carefully set James into the first one, then turned to Leda. “Let me see her, Leda.”

“She feels even hotter now,” Leda told him, rubbing one eye after he took Andrea from her. “Maybe we should just take her back to the ER.”

“Let me see first, okay?” He moved to the sofa to set Andrea on one of the cushions and unbuttoned her fleece sleeper. Andrea began fussing again, shoving a fist in her mouth to chew on. “Shhh, mimûna,” he whispered, laying his hand against her forehead, “You need to let Mommy and Daddy get some rest, too, honey.”

She let out another cry and Leda sank onto the cushion above Andrea’s head. “Shhh… baby… please stop crying…”

Andrea quieted for a moment as Frerin looked her over. “Get me the thermometer, please?” he said without looking up.

“Sure.”

“I got it.” Thorin came back into the room with a tympanic thermometer. He handed it to Frerin. “It’s got the little ear condom on it already."

“Thanks.” Frerin took the thermometer and gently slid it into Andrea’s right ear. She squirmed slightly, but then the thermometer beeped, so he eased it back out. “She’s at ninety-nine, Leda.”

Relief swept across her face as she sank against the arm of the sofa. “So, why won’t she stop crying?”

“When did she eat last?”

“About half an hour ago.” 

“She might have reflux. It’s fairly common in babies her age. Are you still nursing?”

She shook her head. “No. It was killing me, Frerin. We put them on formula a few weeks ago.”

“You might have to switch it up, try a few different ones and see if that helps.” He refastened Andrea’s sleeper and scooped her up to rest against his shoulder. She snuggled up against him, with a soft, tired sigh, and continued chewing on her fist. “In the meantime, I can give you a prescription for something, but honestly? I’d try an over the counter gas reliever like Mylicon first.”

“I can just get this at the store?” Leda asked.

“Yeah. It should be with the children’s cold medicine and cough syrup and the like.”

Thorin sighed. “I’ll go pick some up.”

“It should help. If not, let me know and I’ll write you the scrip.”

Leda let out a long sigh as Thorin clumped into the kitchen and grabbed his car keys. The kitchen door opened, then closed and a few minutes later, the Accord purred to life. 

“I’m so sorry I pulled you away from your date,” Leda told him, rubbing her eyes once more. 

“It’s okay. She understood.” He carefully got to his feet to rock Andrea gently as she cooed and gnawed away on her fist. “She’s got a kid herself, so she knows.”

“Tell me about her.”

He grinned. “There isn’t much to tell, Leda. I met her the other night in the ER and—”

“You dirty dog,” Leda let out a laugh, “you hit on a patient?”

“No. I’m not a grown-up doctor, remember? My patients are all under eighteen and I don't hit on any of them.”

“So, a sick kid’s mother? I’m not sure that’s better, Frer.”

“I didn’t hit on her in the ER. I just met her there. Remember the woman who came in to ask me about the discharge papers? The one you told me to hit on.”

“Oh, so you did take my advice. Then it’s all good.”

“I sort of took it. I didn't hit on her in the ER, though. I actually hit on her in the gym, instead. Her daughter is down with the flu, and she invited me over for dinner.” He smoothed his hand along Andrea’s back as she drifted to sleep. “And when I told her what was going on with these little ones, she understood.”

“Still… she’s the first one since you and Toni split up, isn’t she?”

“No,” he moved to the other pack n’ play and bent to carefully set Andrea in it, offering up a silent prayer that she remained asleep, “I’ve been out a few times, but they never amounted to anything.”

“Why?”

“I just… I’m not really looking for anything serious and most of the women I’ve met so far are hearing wedding bells instead of the restaurant’s daily specials.” He moved back to the sofa and sank onto the cushion on the far end opposite her. 

“At least tell me you’re getting hot sex out of it.”

He couldn't hold back his laugh. “I wish.”

Her eyes widened. “You’re not?”

“I’m not. And that’s okay, because I haven’t really been looking for that, either.”

“What?”

“I know, Thorin thinks I’m nuts, too. But to be honest, I don't have the time, Leda. Between work and the kids and boring-ass dates with women who don't really do it for me? Sex has fallen pretty low on the list of priorities.”

“It’ll happen again. Maybe with this new woman.”

“Yeah, maybe.” He raked his hand through his hair. “But if not, I don't even think I’d care a whole lot right now. I’ve got enough going on and this is only dinner. I’m not thinking much past it right now.”

Leda glanced over at the fireplace. “What time were you meeting her?”

“She’s cooking for me.”

“What?”

“Yeah. I mean, she’s not cooking for me. She was making dinner and just invited me to join her and her daughter.”

“Wait, she is cooking for you and you stood her up? Are you kidding me?”

He shook his head. “She isn’t cooking forme, Leed. And she understood.”

“Oh, Christ, Frerin, get out of my house and go have dinner. Thorin will be back in a few minutes and they’re both asleep, so get out while you can.”

“You sure, Leda? I can wait until he comes home.”

“Yes!” She laughed as she nodded. “I’m very sure. Go.”

He smiled as he rose from the sofa. “Call me if either one of them spikes another fever, okay, Leda? Don't worry about what time it is or where I am. If you need me, call me.”

“I will. Now, go.”

“What time is Dr. Hottie supposed to be here?”

Elena shot Alyssa a look. “I thought you weren’t going to call him that?”

“I said I wouldn’t to his face. And I won’t.” Alyssa didn't look the least bit contrite as she pushed her chicken around on her plate. “But, what time?

“He was supposed to be here for six, but his niece is sick and he was making a house call.”

“Mom, how cool would it be if you and Dr. Hottie got married? I’d never have to go to a doctor’s office again.”

Elena resisted the urge to roll her eyes. “Okay, first off, Dr. Hottie and I are not getting married. We haven’t even gone out yet and I’m not looking for a husband, besides. I had one of those, remember?”

“Dad is an ass. It doesn’t count.”

“Watch your mouth, Alyssa, and whether or not he is an ass is immaterial. I’m still not looking to get back into any serious relationship right now. I’m fine with this—” She gestured between them. “And even if, by some crazy twist, I did end up with Dr. Hot—Durin, you would still have to go to the doctor’s office because you’re almost old enough to no longer see a pediatrician if you really didn't want to, not to mention, it would probably be weirdly uncomfortable for both of you and I can’t imagine he would be willing to treat you as a patient anyway.”

“Yeah,” Alyssa’s nose wrinkled, “it wouldn’t be cool to have to get undressed in front of my stepdad. Or,” she amended as Elena shot her a look, “my mom’s boyfriend.”

“Exactly. Even if your father was a doctor, he wouldn’t treat you, most likely.”

Alyssa set down her fork. “I’m sorry, Mom. I’m just not that hungry. I kind of want to just to back to bed.”

Elena bit back a smile. Alyssa did look utterly exhausted, her face still pale and her eyes still on the heavy-lidded and sunken side, with faint purplish smudges ringed beneath them. “Okay. Go get into bed. Do you want some tea or hot cocoa?”

“Maybe some tea?”

“Okay. Go get settled and I’ll bring you some.”

“Okay.” 

Alyssa pushed her chair away from the table and made her way down the hallway to her room. Elena remained where she was for a minute, just staring at the empty chair in the tiny dining room that was really more alcove than room. It was a far cry from the five-bedroom beach house where Alyssa had spent her first thirteen years. The two-bedroom, first floor apartment was a fraction of the size of that house, and yet they’d both adjusted with relative ease. It was amazing, how the absence of constant friction, of constant tension, and of frequent fighting rendered the size of the living space perfect. Elena found she didn't jump at creaking floorboards the way she used to, she didn't hear a car drive by and have her stomach twist into knots. She didn't have to worry about strange voice mails or why Dan was suddenly so protective of his phone. 

From where she sat, she could see the microwave on the counter beneath the cabinet that held their plates and bowls. It was nearly eight o’clock. Hopefully, Frerin’s niece was all right. Unless, of course, the niece was a ruse to get out of seeing her. That made her wince. It wouldn’t be the first time a guy lied to get out of seeing her, but she usually made it past a first date before being stood up.

Then the doorbell rang and a hint of shame swept through her. Not all men were Dan. She had to unlearn all of the self-preservation tactics being with him had left her with. 

She stood and made her way to the front door, smiling as she peered through the peephole to see Frerin on the other side. She’d forgotten how cute he was, and for the first time in what felt like a lifetime, her belly felt alive with butterflies as she unlatched the chain, flipped the deadbolt and tugged open the door. 

He jumped, but then smiled. “I know I’m really late,” he said by way of greeting, holding up a narrow paper bag, “but I brought wine so I hope that scores me a few points.”

“You’re late, but a sick baby is a perfectly good reason,” she pulled the door open wider, “and wine helps.”

“Good. I hope chardonnay works for you. Or did I just lose those points?”

“Chardonnay is fine, but the chicken might be a little cold.”

“Cold chicken is good.”

“Come on in.”

He stepped into the apartment as she said, “How is your niece?”

“She has a cold and probably reflux. She’ll be fine in time.” Frerin shrugged out of his black leather bomber jacket and draped it over his forearm. “Her parents might not survive it, though. Neither one of them is sleeping much and I’ve never been so thankful I didn't have twins.”

“That’s got to be rough on them, especially if they’re both sick. Here,” she reached for his jacket, “let me take that.”

She moved to the closet, pulling the door open as he said, “Yeah, their kids are not quite six months old, teething, and sick. The first year is always the roughest when it’s one baby. But two? No, thanks.”

“Right?” The jacket was heavier than it looked, and as she slid it onto a hanger, a softly spicy scent wafted from it. Frerin’s cologne, most likely. She couldn’t place the scent, but it was a nice one, whatever it was. 

“How’s Alyssa feeling?”

Elena closed the closet door and gestured for him to come into the dining room. “She’s feeling better, but tired.”

“Yeah, the flu knocks you for a loop, even kids.” 

“Sit down and I’ll fix you a plate.”

“Elena, just point me in the right direction and I’ll fix it myself. Sit down, have a glass of wine. You don’t need to wait on me.”

She smiled. “It’s only a plate.”

“I know.” He winked. “I can manage.”

“Okay. Then manage.”

“I will.” 

“Would you like a glass?” She held up the bottle of chardonnay.

“I’d love one.”

She retrieved the corkscrew and two glasses, then came back to pop open the wine and poured it into both glasses. Then, she sank back into her chair and watched him fix a plate from the dishes on the table, then went into the kitchen. “Where do you keep your waxed paper?”

“Top drawer underneath the microwave.” 

“Got it.”

A few minutes later, he settled in Alyssa’s chair. “See? I managed.”

Elena stiffened at the steam curling away from the potatoes and chicken on his plate. “Oh, damn… I told Alyssa I’d bring her a cup of tea. Excuse me a minute.”

“No problem.” He speared a bite of chicken. “I’ll be right here.”

She hurried back into the kitchen to set the kettle on the stove and turned on the burner, then came back to her chair. He smiled, lowering his fork. “This is delicious, Elena.”

“It’s just a roast chicken.”

“Yeah, but I do most of the cooking now and I am not a good cook by any stretch of the imagination.”

“Are your kids starving?”

“Jake might be.”

“How many do you have?”

“Three. Two boys, with a girl sandwiched between them. My daughter and Alyssa are in math class together. My oldest is a senior and my youngest is in the fifth grade over at the intermediate school.”

“Are you a weekend dad or full time?”

“Full time.” He lifted his wineglass for a sip. “My soon-to-be ex-wife gets them every other weekend for now.”

“For now?”

He lowered the glass, and sighed softly. “Our divorce is dragging out. She’s fighting me for custody. She should only know how I have to insist they go with her on her weekends.”

“How long have you been fighting over them?”

“Since day one.” He traced his finger along the glass’ stem. “They don't want to live with her. They’re in the house where they grew up and they’re old enough where I think a judge will ask them as well. But, Toni is stubborn, so…”

Elena didn't miss the way his jaw tightened with his words, the darkness that seemed to come to his eyes with them. “Can I ask what happened?”

“Sure.” He shrugged. “It’s nothing earth-shattering. Married too young. Kids too soon. We kidded ourselves we could work out all of the problems, but that was a lie, and then she had an affair. With a kid only a few years older than our son.”

Elena didn't know how to respond to that. What could she say? He said it bluntly, with almost no emotion in his voice, but at the same time, it hit her far harder. “What?”

“Yeah.” He rubbed his bearded chin with one hand, then lowered it to reach of his wineglass. “She was a stay at home mom until about two years ago. Then she decided she wanted to go back to school and finish her degree. Like I said, we got married way too young, and Flynn came only a few months after our wedding, so she didn't get the chance to finish college. The kids were old enough and I thought it was a great idea, so she went back. Then she gets paired up with this kid as her lab partner and the next thing I know…”

“An affair.”

“Yeah.” He met her gaze then, and offered up a humorless smile. “The kid’s younger brother was in school with Flynn. On the baseball team with him.”

Elena pressed her lips together at the soft words, at the pain that flashed in Frerin’s blue-gray eyes. “I can guess what happened,” she said softly.

“You’d probably be right. Flynn defended his mother and nearly found himself off the team as well.”

“Nearly?”

“Yeah. He got a two-day suspension, but the coach knows him, and knew what happened and let him stay on the team. It was a mess, but it’s all behind us now, thank Mahal. He’s doing a lot better than he was last spring.” He lifted the wineglass, took a sip, and lowered it to add, “And that’s a lot to drop on you and I’m sorry. You can just kick me under the table to shut me up.”

“No, it’s fine,” she said with a smile, shaking her head. “I appreciate the honestly. Too many guys would be all she’s crazy and fucked up and any other excuse they can offer to make themselves look good.”

He paused his chewing and just stared and for a moment, Elena wondered if she’d said too much. Then, he swallowed and with a shake of his head, said, “So, I shouldn’t tell you how you’re not like other women, then?”

“Only if you want me to toss out of my apartment.”

He smiled then. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

The kettle began whistling, so she said, “Excuse me,” and went to switch off the burner under the kettle and moved to grab the box of tea bags from the overhead cabinet. She set one in the cup she’d taken out for Alyssa and poured boiling water into it.

As she waited for it to steep, Frerin came into the kitchen, plate in hand. “I didn't freak you out, did I? I mean, I know my sad life story is really fascinating and all, but you didn't need me unloading like that.”

“It was fine,” she told him, leaning back against the counter. “And it’s not unloading. I asked because I wanted to know.”

“Yeah, but still…”

“No, no but still.” She smiled up at him as she took the tea bag from the cup with one hand and reached for the bear-shaped bottle of honey with the other. “I did want to know. And I’d like to know more about you.”

“More? Like what else?”

“Well, how long have you been a doctor? How long have you been at the hospital? What do you do when you’re not putting worried moms’ minds at ease with your incredible bedside manner?”

He chuckled. “I graduated med school ten years ago. Finished up my residency and boarded five years ago and I’ve been at the hospital for the entire time. I matched there out of med school, and they offered me my current position two years ago.”

“And what is your current position?”

“I run the pediatric department. So, when I’m not covering the ER or putting worried moms’ minds at ease, I’m stuck in budget meetings and buried under paperwork.”

“Poor Dr. Durin.”

“Hey, you should see what my in box looks like. I’m lucky I get out of my office alive some times.”

As he spoke he stepped closer, looming over her, all broad shoulders and wide chest. He was almost a foot taller than her, and seemed to block out the light from that single overhead fixture. 

“It’s a good thing you’re surrounded by doctors then, huh?” she asked.

“Yeah.” He nodded, bending toward her. “It is. At times.”

He hesitated, but then leaned closer still. Her heart sped up, a thousand butterflies going wild in her stomach at the thought of his kissing her. 

His lips were soft, his kiss gentle, and as he eased an arm about her waist, she did the same about his neck, and let her fingers creep up into his soft, wavy hair. His hand splayed across the small of her back, heat from his palm seeping into her as his lips parted, as his tongue eased between her lips to slick slowly along hers. 

His beard scratched lightly against her skin. The arm about her waist tightened, the edge of the counter bit into her hip as he pressed her up against it. For the first time in well over a year, Elena’s body hummed with desire, her fingers twisted of their own into his hair, her back bowed and as her breasts pressed firmly into his broad chest, she didn't miss the way his breath hitched. His kiss deepened further, his tongue tangling with hers now, slow and thick and teasing, and the hand on her back slid down over her left butt cheek to cup it and gently kneaded it. 

“Mom?”

Frerin pulled away, somewhat breathless as he nuzzled her and whispered, “The tea…”

Her head spun from the fire in that one kiss, the one that left her breathless as well, with a delicious heat swirling through her. Her face was warm as she cleared her throat and whispered, “I should probably take that to Alyssa.”

He drew back, his eyes heavy-lidded, his grin on the boyish side. “Probably.”

“I’ll—I’ll be right back.” She slowly pulled away from him, reaching for the mug with one hand, drawing her index finger along her bottom lip with the other. It had been a lifetime since anyone kissed her with that much fire, that much passion, and a hint of shyness swirled through her as she moved to the doorway. There, she paused, and smiled as he turned toward the sink and with a light whistle on his lips, ran hot water into the sink, then tackled the dishes in the basin. 

“Where do you keep your dishtowels?” he asked, smiling at her over his left shoulder.

“The bottom drawer on your right. But, you really don't have—”

He winked. “Alyssa’s tea is going to be cold.”

She smiled back at him. “Well, far be it from me to stop you washing dishes.”

“They’re in good hands. Trust me.”

She ducked her head and made her way down to Alyssa’s room, which was dark except for the glow of the television on her tall dresser. “Did you get lost, Mom?”

“Funny. No, I didn’t. I had to let it steep, remember.”

Alyssa narrowed her eyes. “Why do I not believe that?”

“Lyss.”

“Okay, okay. You were letting it steep.” She sat up and flipped on the lamp on her bedside table. “Did Dr. Durin make it or are you still waiting for him?”

“No, he’s here. He’s doing the dishes.”

“What? What guy does dishes willingly?” Alyssa took the mug and sipped, then added, “Aside from one who’d probably hoping for a good night kiss.”

“Lyssa.”

“What? You should totally kiss him, Mom. I bet it feels weird because he’s got a beard.”

“I wouldn’t know. I’ve never kissed anyone with a beard before.”

“Well, maybe tonight you’ll find out.”

Elena smiled as she smoothed the comforter across Alyssa’s lap. “Don’t you be worrying about that. You try to get some sleep.”

“I will, Mom.” 

She took another sip of tea, then her expression grew serious—serious enough that Elena said, “What is it, Lyssa?”

“Well, I think you should let him kiss you. Then you can tell me if it’s scratchy and weird or not.”

“Why do you need to know this?”

“A few of the boys at school have beards, like Grayson Markham, and I don't think I’d mind it if he kissed me, but I think it would feel weird.”

Elena bit back a sigh. Her mother always described Alyssa as an old soul and more often than not, Elena agreed. However… “You’re not even fourteen years, honey. You should be thinking about school and homework, not kissing boys with beards. And how old is this boy, anyway?”

“He’s a junior. He just got his license on Monday.” Alyssa sighed softly. “And it doesn’t matter anyway. He’s got a girlfriend and even if he didn’t, he doesn’t know I’m alive.”

Thank God for small favors. But, of course, she could say that out loud, so Elena patted her through the covers. “Your time will come, honey. I promise you. Don’t be in such a hurry.”

“I know, but still…”

Elena smiled as she bent over to kiss the top of Alyssa’s head. “I know. Thirteen is a tough age. But, you’ll be grown up before you know it and I’m not at all ready for that, so let’s not hurry it along, okay?”

“Okay, Mom. You should get back to Dr. Hottie. He’s probably wondering if you’re ditching him.”

“In my own home?”

“You never know.”

Elena ruffled her hair. “I’ll come check on you in a little while. You should try to get some sleep.”

“I will.”

“Call me if you need anything.”

“I will.”

Elena flipped off the light and after a last look in over her shoulder, left the room, pulling the door by as she did. As she rounded the corner of the kitchen doorway, she smiled at the sight of Frerin stacking the clean plates in the cabinet. 

Dr. Hottie, indeed. 

“Tell me I’m not putting things in the wrong place,” he said without turning around. 

“No, you’re fine.”

“Good. My former mother-in-law used to move things in my kitchen—would put them where she thought they should be instead of where we actually kept them, and it drove me insane.” He closed the cabinet and turned toward her, leaning back against the counter. “So, if I did that, please yell at me.”

“I’m still deciding where things should go, so I don't think there really is a wrong spot just yet.” 

“Even so. Tell me, okay?” 

“I will.”

“So,” he draped the towel over his shoulder as he towered over her, “I was thinking we should go out sometime, Elena. You free Sunday night? I know it’s a weird date night and ordinarily, I’d suggest something on Friday, but I’ve to work Friday.”

“I’m free most nights, so Sunday would be fine. It just can’t be too late, since I have to work on Monday.”

He smiled as he dried his hands on the towel. “Sunday it is. Dinner? Movie?”

“What’s playing?”

“I have no idea. I don't even remember the last time I was in a movie theatre.”

“Me, neither, so why don’t we skip the movie and just do dinner then?”

“Dinner sounds good to me.”

She looked up at him and smiled. “Dinner it is.”

“Good.” His eyes glittered in the soft glow of the single overhead light. “I’ll pick you up at seven?”

“You don’t sound so sure.”

“No, I’m sure.” 

“Okay, so do you need to get home or do you want to maybe see what’s on television?”

“If you’re not throwing me out, I’ve got no where else to be.” He folded the dishtowel and laid it on the counter. “Do you watch The Walking Dead?”

“I thought that was on Sunday nights?”

“It is, and that’s why God invented On-Demand.”

“Oh, is that why?”

He nodded. “Oh, yeah. So, do you watch it?”

“No, but if you don’t mind my asking questions, I’m game.”

“I don't mind.”

“Then I’m game.”

[thyhauntedmansion]

‼️MINOR RL SPOILERS‼️

@resident-lover

Plan a heist with one and get rid of evidence with the other😌

[lovelytsunoda]

lovelytsunoda’s definitive motorsports fiction rec-list

because i am a bookworm and aspiring goodreads influencer. this is where i am going to fawn over fictional men and addictive storytelling.

part one/ ?

throttled - lauren asher ( dirty air #1 )*

rating: 4 stars

where to begin with this one? i have a whole pinterest board but that’s a story for another day. maya alatorre’s brother santiago just beame the secondary driver for bandini and she’s joining the team on the road for race season, where she meets ( and ultimatley falls in love with ) noah slade, formula one’s resident golden boy and legacy driver with daddy issues. featuring enemies to lovers, brother’s rival and secret romance.

collided - lauren asher ( dirty air #2 )*

rating: 4.5 stars

set in the same world as throttled, collided follws sophie mitchell, daughter of bandini team principal james mitchell as she spends the summer on the road with the team, and finds her way into the arms of german mccoy driver liam zander ( who is literally the PERFECT man, like he hits every single point on my trifecta: he’s german, he drives a formula one car and he reads books ). liam is mccoy’s resident bad boy, and his pr team has him on a dating ban after he sleeps with the team principals niece. sophie has a naughty ( vvv spicy ) bucket list, and liam offers to help her out, falling hopelesley in love along the way.

thunderstruck - roxanne st.clair ( harlequin nascar )

rating: 3.5 stars

shelby jackson is the co-owner of the last family owner team in the nascar nextel cup series. sadly, thunder racing is in a terrible financial position and they haven't won anything in years. something that british soccer player mick churchill wants to change when he offers to by the other half of the team. shelby is unimpressed, and keeps trying to push mick out of the business, ultimately falling in love with him in the process. shelby is a girlboss, who commands attention everywhere she goes. mick is a dumbass, match made in heaven. the cover on this one SUCKS but the book is pretty good for being written in 2007, however it lacks any sexy time scenes, as the scenes always cut before there is any real smut.

flash and bones - kathy reiches ( temperance brennan / bones #14 )

rating: 4.5 stars

a dead body is found in an oil drum in the waste processing facility behind the charlotte motor speedway ahead of nascar race week. forensic anthropologist temperance brennan lands the case, and begins looking into the disappearance of a seventeen year old girl and her older boyfriend twelve years prior at the behest of a nascar mechanic related to one of the missing. from there, it’s a rich mystery and vast conspiracy involving militia groups, the fbi, biotoxins and car racing. listen, i was already in love with detective andrew ryan from the other temperance brennan books, but to find out that he is a jacques villeneuve fan, i am swooning.

wrecked - lauren asher ( dirty air #3 )*

rating: 5 stars

this book broke me, i'm not even kidding. this book is forced proximity and enemies to lovers between driver jax kingston and elena gonzalez, his media rep. they both have torubled pasts, and i f i could just warp them both in bubble wrap and protect then from the rowld, i would. jax is dangerously self-destructive, and elena has a hard time letting people in, but once they break down their walls (and god does it take a while) they are truly made for each other.

yes i cried like a baby, no i will not elaborate.

taming zach - amy sparling ( team loco #1 )

rating: 3 stars even.

cute, wholesome but predicatable and a little lame. this book follows motocross racer zach pena who has lost his focus on the sport and this also lost his place at the summer classic. as he risks getting cut from the team, he heads back home to hopewell, where he falls in love with bree grayson, the daughter of the groundskeeper ath hopewell motocross park. it's calssic good girl-bad boy shit, and it's been done many times before. although it can get steamy, there's no smut.

currently undecided if im actually going to finish the series.

redeemed - lauren asher ( dirty air #4 )*

rating: 5 stars

santaigo motherfucking alatorre. santaigo is recovering from a crash at silverstone three years ago that resulted in the loss of his right leg. since the crash, he's sequestered himself inside his mansion on lake como and hidden himself away from the world. chole carter never knew who her father was. after her roomate buys her a drugstore dna kit, she finally has her father's identity and finds herself on a trip to lake como to find him.

what i really liked about this one was that as they fell in love with each other, they also learned how to love themselves more in the process.

the final ranking order i have for the dirty air series (and men) is as follows: 1. Redeemed (Santi), 2. Wrecked (Jax), 3. Collided (Liam), 4. Throttled (Noah).

*bonus chapters are available for all the dirty air books at lauren asher’s website!