#they know they love each other and they kiss in the hospital room (after jake passes out once the adrenaline rush dissipates)

[qvid-pro-qvo]

Macheresin, where we have a role reversal of coyote going into g-loc. Like the entire dagger Squad watches as Jake gets reamed out by Javy for refusing treatment, and it ends up with them screaming their feelings for each other in front of everybody and their mother.

maverick’s on the radar, and jake finds his teeth grinding.

“we need this guy off our ass,” he mutters, but phoenix’s voice is clear in his helmet.

“we keep going. finish the mission.”

so they do. they follow the path, they swerve and juke and spin. inversion, laser goes dead, so jake fires. misses.

“goddammit,” he snaps, and feels his rage fuel his flying, feels the incline go a little too steep, feels his chest start to cave in.

and that’s when it all goes south.

jake’s eyes are staring into the sun, and yet everything goes black. he fights and he fights and he fights but soon it just doesn’t matter. his hands go slack on the stick, and then his body goes limp, and the last thing he hears before he’s out is maverick’s voice chirping away.

one beat. two beat. three beat.

pull up, pull up! pull up, pull up! pull up, pull up!

“hangman! c’mon, hangman! hangman!”

suddenly a flood of colors, of his senses, of ringing in his ears. his eyes go wide, he sees the mountain, and with the reflexes that only training and skill can manage, he pulls up. straightens out. his heart is pounding and his eyes are still blurry, and as he gasps for breath he hears phoenix’s voice, then bob’s, then mav’s, and then the voices become words.

“hangman? you all right?” maverick asks. there’s worry, fear, all of it.

“i’m — i’m good,” he coughs out. tries not to think about anything but landing this thing. if his hands shake, he can’t afford to notice. “i’m good, guys. let’s go home.”

—

he repeats it all the way home, and soon it’s the only thing he can say. good. good. fine. thanks. everyone asks, even the people who never gave a shit before. he supposes it could’ve been any of them, but it was him, and the embarrassment chokes his airway just as good as the g-force did.

so he nods and brushes off any concern, and he’s halfway to telling the nurse sent to fetch him that he’s just fine when the storm comes rolling in behind him.

“hangman.”

jake knows that voice. almost missed it in the air, when he came back to himself. but he doesn’t turn to face javy, just smiles sweetly at the woman before him.

“i’m all right. i’ll nod off early tonight, promise.”

“hangman,” javy repeats, but the nurse looks half to breaking.

“you really should be kept under observation,” she tells him, and she sounds solemn. concerned. it makes his teeth grind. “i at least need some vitals.”

jake doesn’t think that’s a good idea. he’s sure his heart rate alone would warrant a hospital visit he doesn’t need. “i’m fine,” he says, again, like he’s done over and over until he’s blue in the face —

“jake.”

this time it’s not just javy’s voice, it’s his hand. he’s whirled around, so quick he’s dizzy with it, and when his vision clears there’s an expression on his best friend’s features he can’t quite read. unfamiliar territory.

“coyote,” he says, flashing a too-sharp grin. he almost misses the way the nurse reaches for his arm with a cuff in her grip because he’s so focused on his front. but his body jerks away from her, toward machado, almost falling into him. “hey, watch it, i’m not staying.”

“like hell you’re not,” javy says fiercely, and then he’s grabbing the cuff himself. “you’re getting looked at.”

the look is still there. jake concludes it must be anger, because his brows are so furrowed he sees every line between them. has the urge to rub them away.

“javy,” he says again, keeps his smile to make it somewhat convincing. “get the stick out your ass. i’m okay. i flew back home. with a perfect landing, if i do say so myself.”

but if anything, it seems to make javy more furious. his jaw sets, twitches, and jake feels guilt, that embarrassment rise up in his chest, makes his cheeks flush with it.

“don’t play with me, jake.” the tone offers no place for argument. “you’re not going anywhere until a doctor signs you out, and that’s —“

“what? an order?” jake snaps, because he feels so small. compared to a mountain, he’s a bug on a windshield. “fuck off, okay? i’m perfectly capable of handling this mission, i’m not letting them baby me —“

“baby you?! you almost died, jake!”

javy’s voice cracks with it, shatters, takes jake’s heart along with it. there are looks from everyone milling about, and they’re not being subtle about anything. but jake sees no one else in the room. and then that looks reads so much clearer, because now jake can see every line, every furrow, every worry.

every fear.

it’s fear, in his best friend’s eyes. fear he caused.

he feels sick.

“you almost died,” javy repeats. gentler. but jake thinks in that moment, that javy must feel small, too, because while jake was a bug in flight, javy was a million miles away on the ground. “i almost — i almost lost you, you realize that? i was seconds from hearing you crash-land, and all i could think was that i was losing you and i couldn’t get in a plane fast enough to save you.”

“javy,” jake whispers, nausea swirling in his gut. his eyes must be shining, just like the man in front of him. “javy, i made it back. okay?

“but you almost didn’t. and i couldn’t do anything but listen, jake, you get that? i couldn’t do a damn thing. so please, i’m asking, hell, i’m begging you, let them make sure you’re all right.”

it’s then that javy grabs his hand. he’s ready to drag jake where he needs to go. against his will, god forbid. it’s then that he looks jake in his eyes, fear plain on his face, written all of it.

something more, between the lines.

“i can’t lose you,” javy tells him. “not like that. never like that.”

their hands are still interlocked. the grip is so tight, he knows he’ll feel it even after javy lets go.

but he doesn’t want javy to let go.

“okay,” jake finally says. glances to the cuff still in javy’s other hand. “okay. fine. but — but you put it on.”

javy’s gaze drifts past him, jake’s sure to the nurse. and she must nod, or something, because javy’s using one hand to wrap the thing around his upper arm, the hand still in his grip pulling him to the couch so they can sit side by side.

the nurse takes his vitals. declares his blood pressure is through the roof, his heart rate is way too high. “i do have to recommend observation to the doctors,” she tells them. “for one night, settle your system.”

and jake wants to rebel, wants to fight it, but javy’s look haunts him. that fear, that pain.

“okay,” he says quietly. “one night.”

it’s clear javy’s relieved. he’s finally smiling, almost triumphant. but their hands still haven’t dropped from each other, and as the nurse calls in her findings jake squeezes his fingers to pull his gaze back to him.

“please stay,” he asks his best friend, his closest companion, the only person he’s loved like this. “i can’t — i can’t lose you either.”

it’s a big ask. a night away from a bed, a night of bad sleep and shittier food than normal. but javy doesn’t hesitate.

“i’m not going anywhere.”

[callsign-dexter]

I'm Fine

Request: hey love I just saw your angst starter sentences list and I don’t know if you are still doing it so if you aren’t just ignore me lol I have a few so you can pick and choose(or if you don’t like any of them you don’t have to do them no pressure)

maybe with Tim Bradford and daughter you could use

-you’ve been crying, i can tell.

Starter- You've been crying, I can tell.

Pairings: Tim Bradford x Daughter!Reader

Warnings: angst, cussing, assault to a minor, hospitals, inaccurate medical talk, abusive coach

Masterlist

miscellaneous angst starters

A/N: Thank you to the person who sent this in! The same request from the same requester that had three different starters. The other two fics can be found here: Jake Seresin x Daughter!Reader and Maverick x Daughter!Reader.

It was rare for Tim Bradford to take a day off but ever since you, his 17-year-old daughter, was born you he had been taking more of them off and you were glad for that. One you got your dad and two he actually had time to wind down and focus on himself along with taking care of himself. He had just arrived home early in the morning, 6:30 AM, on Thursday from work he knew that would be getting up soon and you would be starting your routine of getting ready to go school and then softball practice right after. He started to get your lunch and then he was restocking your cooler with ice and drinks and some snacks that you had in your Trailblazer, once he was done, he picked it up and grabbed your keys and headed out to put it in your trunk so you didn’t have to carry too much at once. When he went back inside, he heard the shower running and smiled. He made himself busy with things in the kitchen and the laundry room where he went and got your practice clothing out and made sure they were dry and then put them in your bag. By the time he was done you had walked down the stairs with damp hair and when you saw him you smiled. “Hey, Dad.” You said and he looked up, smiled as you walked over and hugged him.

“Good morning, Sweetheart.” He said and kissed the top of your head as you buried your face into his chest. “Sleep well?” He asked and you nodded and then released him from the hug.

“Yea, I did. Did you have a good shift?” You asked as you moved to make yourself something to eat as he leaned up against the counter and watched you. “Coffee?” You asked and he shook his head.

“No, thank you. I’m planning on falling asleep as soon as you leave.” He said and you chuckled as you poured yourself some.

“So… have you confessed your love to Lucy yet?” You asked him smirking as you took a sip of your coffee made just how you liked it.

“Y/N.” He said with a warning tone and you rolled your eyes but still smirked.

“Oh, come on. Everyone can see you are in love with her and she is in love with you.” You said and when he didn’t say anything you knew you had won, sort of. You had met Lucy a few months back and saw the immediate heart eyes they had for each other. You and her really clicked.

“Don’t you have to get to school?” He asked as you looked at the stove and set your coffee down.

“Fine. We’re not done talking about this.” You said as you went to collect your backpack, lunch, and softball bag.

“Yes, we are.” He said and again you rolled your eyes.

“Whatever.” You chuckled “I have practice after school.” You said already dreading it because you hated your coach and he tended to overwork your team to the point of any of you getting hurt or sick from the little to none water breaks and the running without stopping and again no water.

“I’ve already packed the cooler and put it in your Trailblazer. Now get going before you're late. Be safe and I love you.” He said and pulled you into another hug and kissed your head again.

“I love you too.” You said and released him from the hug and you were out the door heading to your Trailblazer and off to school.

You had arrived at school, with plenty of time to spare, you parked next to your friend’s, Samantha Nolan, John Nolan’s daughter, your friend and fellow softball team member, 4Runner. You and her have been friends since the start of middle school and often stayed with each other. It was just a coincidence that your father’s worked together. You just sat in your Trailblazer just trying to mentally prepare yourself for the day and what is to come at practice. Lately your wrist and shoulder had been hurting and with you pitching it made it much worse and then batting made it worse. You tried to say something to Coach Theo Morgan about it but he just said to suck it up and deal with it. Your trainer Amanda Fender and assistant Coach Liam Colt just looked on with sorrow in her eyes, she tried to help but Coach Morgan wouldn’t listen to them and would threaten to fire them if they were brought up again. Several parents were complaining about how bad Coach Morgan was and how their children were breaking down to Coach Colt and they had even compensated by pulling their kids from the team. You haven’t told your dad about it because you didn’t like conflict and he had enough on his plate to begin with. You absolutely loved playing softball but lately you’ve been dreading even playing and starting to hate it.

When you looked down at your Trailblazer’s clock and saw it was time to start heading in, you killed the engine and grabbed your backpack and lunch and headed inside. You were quick to meet up with Samantha. You both had pretty much all of the same classes together which helped a lot. “Hey!” She said and hugged you.

“Hey.” You said and winced a little bit when your shoulder moved the wrong way and she frowned when she released you.

“You, ok?” She asked and you shook your head.

“No, my shoulder hurts when I love it a certain way and so does my wrist.” You said and she looked at you as you both began walking to your first class of the day.

“Have you told your dad?” She asked and again you shook your head.

“No, he has enough on his plate. You know how it is.” You spoke

“What about Coach Morgan?” She asked but knew the answer when you gave her a look.

“You know he doesn’t give a shit about us. All he cares about is winning.” You said and she made a face and nodded agreeing with you. “Even if I told Amanda about it, she wouldn’t be able to do anything about it.” You added and again she nodded in agreeing with you. You both arrived at the classroom and went and sat down in your seats, which were right beside each other, and then a few minutes passed and the school day started.

The rest of the day went by quickly, maybe a little too quickly for your liking because now you had to face Coach Morgan and the hell that he was going to put you through. The softball field was just a little bit behind the high school so it was only a short walk to the field. When the last bell rang everyone was let out and you had gone to your Trailblazer along with Samantha, who was parked next to you, and you both traded out your school backpack for your softball gear. You both headed to the locker rooms chatting away. When you arrived, your other teammates were there doing the same thing and everyone greeted each other and then started to complain about how today was going to go and how shitty of a coach that Coach Morgan was.

Once everyone was changed and had grabbed their gear you all were heading down to the field. Everyone started to warm up and had to wait on your coach, who never seemed to care to actually show up on time so your assistant coach, Coach Colt, started your practice. He was a better coach than Coach Morgan because he actually cared about his team members. Practice started easy and it was actually fun then the pitching and batting started and as soon as you threw the first pitch your shoulder screamed in pain and so did your wrist and your pitch was off and this concerned both Coach Colt and Trainer Amanda enough for both of them to walk up to you. “Are you ok?” Coach Colt asked and you nodded not wanting to say anything even though Coach Morgan wasn’t there. They gave you a look and you believed you could trust them.

“No, my shoulder and wrist have been killing me.” You said and they nodded and Trainer Amanda started to press around and when she got to a point you winced and drew back.

“How long has this been going on?” Coach Colt asked

“Since last week.” You said and they gave you a look and a frown “I tried to tell Coach Morgan about it but he just said to suck it up and get on with it.” You added and they had a look of anger on their face.

“Why don’t you go sit down and we’ll get the relief pitcher in.” Coach Colt said and you nodded and went to sit down as your other friend Elizabeth Summers walked up to the pitching mound after giving you a sad smile. You were just glad to have some rest. 30 minutes into the practice Coach Morgan showed up and when he saw you sitting on the bench, he grew furious and stormed over to Coach Colt.

“Why the fuck is Bradford sitting on the bench and not on the fucking pitching mound?” He screamed and everything was silent and everything halted. Nobody liked Coach Morgan and were terrified of him.

“Her pitches were off because her shoulder was hurting and so was her wrist. So, Amanda and I are giving her a rest.” Coach Colt said defending you and trying to keep calm.

“I don’t give a fuck if she’s hurting. You have to work through the pain. No pain, no gain.” Coach Morgan said “I want her back on that pitching mound this instant.” He said and turned to you as you were picking up your glove and heading to the mound looking at Elizabeth who gave you a sympathetic look. You were a great pitcher and because of that you worked harder. They walked away from you to stand on the side “Now begin!” He yelled and you clenched your teeth and got ready to throw the ball already filling your shoulder scream in pain. You took a deep breath and wound up and threw the ball and as you released it tears came to your eyes and they clenched shut but opened them quickly, it had made it to the catcher’s, Samantha, glove like you planned it but it still fucking hurt. Samantha threw the ball back to you. This exercise went on for about 2 minutes just to get you warmed up and each time your shoulder and wrist screamed in pain. “Ok, I want to go onto the next drill!” Coach Morgan yelled “Coach Colt will be hitting the ball to different positions and everyone will be throwing it just like in a game.” He yelled and everyone nodded. You stayed put as well as everyone else as Coach Colt walked up and started the drill. Each time you caught it and threw it your shoulder screamed in pain and you were throwing some wild throws and that just pissed him off. “Time out!” He yelled and stormed over to you and grabbed you by the arm and practically drug you off the field and started laying into you. “What the fuck was that?! It’s like you’re not even trying! You’re supposed to be my best pitcher and you’re pitching like shit! I don’t give a fuck if your injured, you work through the pain!” He yelled and tears stung your eyes. Off in your peripheral vision you could see everyone looking and grouped together. Everyone knew you were hurt and tried to do something but they got punished or threatened to be kicked off the team. You weren’t paying attention to him and that pissed him off “Are you even fucking listening to me?!” He said and shoved you and then grabbed the front of your shirt and got up in your face.

“I am. My shoulder really hurts.” You tried to defend yourself and then he let go of your shirt and you thought it was over but then he raised his hand and slapped you in the face which made you step back and crash into the fence and head hitting the pole, you looked up holding your face and tears actually fell from your eyes.

“I don’t fucking care! How do you expect to become a professional?!” He said and grabbed you again and you were terrified and your face showed it and about that time Coach Colt and Amanda were rushing to your aid and Coach Colt pulled Coach Morgan off of you as Amanda shielded you.

“That is enough. Her shoulder and wrist have been hurting for weeks and you simply ignored her and threatened to kick her off the team if she said anything. That’s right we’ve heard all about it.” Coach Colt said

“That is not an excuse!” Coach Morgan yelled

“Yes, it is. Any more pushing and she could damage her shoulder and wrist for good and she won’t be able to play at all.” Amanda said as she held your crying form. Coach Morgan huffed and stormed off and left. Coach Colt turned to the rest of the team.

“Practice is over. Go home and rest, we’ll let you know when the next practice is.” He said and everyone nodded and started to gather their stuff and head to their cars not bothering to change then he turned to you and Amanda. “Are you ok?” He asked and you shook her head which you must’ve hit because shaking it caused it to throb and you had some blood running from your temple and your ear was ringing. “Here let me see.” He said and put a comforting hand on yours and slowly moved it and he grew angry. You had a handprint from where Coach Morgan had slapped you and his wedding ring must've got you too because you were bleeding from your cheek bone and bruising along with some swelling started to form. “I fucking hate that guy.” He said “You really need to go get checked out.” He added.

“I just want to go home. I’ll get cleaned up there.” You said

“Are you sure? One of us can take you to the hospital.” Amanda said and you nodded “Is anyone home with you?” She asked and you nodded. They knew Tim and Nolan were police officers and knew their schedule.

“Yea, dad is home.” You said in a quiet voice. Just then Samantha walked up with yours and her stuff.

“I’ll make sure she gets home safely.” Samantha said and that made you jump because you didn’t hear her walk up. That concerned them.

“Thank you, Samantha.” Amanda said and she smiled as she threw an arm around your shoulder and began your trek to your cars.

“You are not ok to drive.” She said and you looked at her.

“No, I am. I just want to be home.” You said and she nodded.

“Ok, just take it nice and slow, ok.” She asked and you nodded.

“Ok.” You said as you both put your stuff in your cars and then both got in and started your drive home. As you were getting closer to your house your vision was starting to get blurry with tears and a little bit of double vision was starting. Lucky for you, you had just pulled into your driveway next to your dad’s truck. You killed the engine and started to bawl. After a few minutes you wiped your tears, grabbed your backpack and softball bag and headed inside. You were moving slowly but straightened up and tried to walk normally. You turned the handle of the door and walked in being met with the TV on and your dad in the kitchen. You say your stuff down by the front door and then walk in with your head down and he smiled at you.

“Hey, Sweetheart. How was school?” He asked

“It was good.” You said and he frowned because he noticed how your voice croaked.

“Are you ok?” He asked and you nodded.

“I’m fine. I’m just going to head upstairs and get ready for dinner.” You said and you didn’t give him a chance to say anything as you rushed upstairs. When you got to your room you looked into the mirror and saw the damage, the handprint had darkened and there was more running down your face. Your shoulder and wrist hurt. It wasn’t even 2 minutes later when you heard a knock at your door.

“Can I come in?” He asked

“Yes.” You said as he opened the door.

“Y/N are you ok? You’ve been crying, I can tell.” Tim said

“How can you tell?” You asked with a scratchy voice.

“Your voice croaked like it always does when you’ve been crying. Also, you're my daughter I know these things." He said with a chuckle and you had let out a little one. You had your back to him and when he turned around, he instantly became angry.

“Who the fuck did this to you?” He asked as he walked up to you and gently grabbed your chin to look at you.

“Coach Morgan.” You said quietly

“That son of a bitch. Why did he do this to you?” He asked releasing you.

“My pitches and throws were sloppy because my shoulder and wrist had been hurting for weeks and he got angry and pulled me off the field. He cussed me out and then turned violent and then slapped me hard enough to push me into the chained linked fence hard. His ring cut him and my ear has been ringing ever since. My head hurts too from hitting the pole.” You said and Tim was angry but not at you. He had released your chin when you had begun talking.

“I'm taking you to the hospital and I’m going to take pictures of this and do something about it.” He said and you nodded and he pulled out his phone and began taking pictures of your face. When he was done, he ushered you out of your room and down the stairs to his truck where he was helping you get in and then he got in himself and started the engine, he pulled out of the driveway and started driving towards the hospital.

When you both got there, he made sure to park close by and then he killed the engine he first got out then he walked over and helped you out. On the way to the hospital your vision had doubled, the ringing intensified, and you had become dizzy to the point of almost throwing up. You were almost in the hospital when you suddenly went to the trash can and threw up. “Woah.” He said and rubbed your back after you were done you wiped your mouth and headed inside where he told you to go and sit down. Tim walked up to the front desk and got a forum to fill out. You had told him you were dizzy and having double vision. He walked over and sat down next to you and began filling out what was needed, answering the questions with ease. You leaned against his shoulder on your non-injured side. 

“I don't feel good, Daddy.” You said and he turned to look at you. You had turned pale and looked overall exhausted. “Wanna go to sleep.” You said and he shook his head.

“No can do. Not until we get you checked out by the doctor.” Tim said and you nodded trying your best to stay awake. He was quick to fill the rest of it out and stood up causing you to sit up and took the clipboard to the front desk. He went and sat back down and you cuddled into him. Thankfully the ER wasn't that busy and you were getting called back quickly. They were put in a room and then Gino Brown, Jackson West’s boyfriend, walked in and stopped.

“Officer Bradford, pleasure seeing you again.” He said with a smile then turned to you “Y/N, what happened?” He asked as he began taking an assessment and hooking you up to a monitor. 

“Coach Morgan hit me and that caused me to slam into a pole.” You said slurring your words. 

“He really did a number on you.” He said, “I'm gonna shine a light in your eyes.” He said and you nodded but squeezed your eyes shut from the moment.

“I'm sorry.” You apologized, opening your eyes and he shook his head.

“No worries.” He said and shined a light in your eyes and your pupils were slow to react. He sighed and turned towards your dad but could still see you “I think she has a concussion but I want Dr. Sawyer to confirm.” Gino said and he nodded he was about to leave when you spoke up.

“I think I'm gonna be sick.” You said and they could've sworn you had turned green and Gino was quick to grab a bucket and you threw up. When you were done you were catching your breath when all of sudden your eyes rolled into the back of your head, you tensed, and you began to seize, which was not normal.

“Woah! Ok.” Gino said and was quick to roll you on your side and then instructed Tim to help as he stepped outside “I'm gonna need some help in here!” He yelled out and two other nurses and Dr. Grace Sawyer rushed in.

“What happened?” Grace asked, quickly taking over Tim's place as the other nurses were quick to get an IV in and you hooked up on fluids. “Give a push of Midazolam. Are you ok with us giving her a sedative just to let her brain rest?” She asked calmly and Tim nodded truly scared for his daughter.

“We were talking and she was slurring her words and I was about to come and get you when she got sick. When she was done, she was catching her breath and then her eyes rolled into the back of her head and she started to seize.” Gino said after pushing the medication in and you stopped and then he pushed a sedative in and they saw you visibly relax.

“Get her hooked up to a monitor and get her admitted. I want her to get a CT scan as well.” Grace said and everyone nodded and then she turned to Tim. “Now what happened to make her look like this?” She asked.

“She said Coach Theo Morgan, her softball coach, hit her and that caused her to slam into a pole.” Tim said as she motioned him to walk with her. 

“Him. We have had a lot of kids come in with shin splints, stress fractures, broken bones, and concussions. Y/N is the worst case we've had. We've never had one come in slurring words, complaining of dizziness, getting sick, and then seizing.” Grace said as they arrived at the CT scan normally, they wouldn't let anyone in the viewing room but seeing as Tim was a police officer, they let him. They watched the screen scan your brain. “Everything looks good from the scan. The seizure sometimes happens with a concussion. I want to keep her out and here for a few days and recheck in a couple of days.” Grace said and Tim nodded. “I also want to take an x-ray of her shoulder and wrist since it said on her paperwork about them hurting her.” She said and again he nodded.

“Can I get all of this in a report and the others? I'm gonna do something about this once and for all.” Tim asked and Grace nodded.

“Of course. I want this guy to go away.” She said as they moved you out of the CT scan and then they followed you to the x-ray room. They took the x-rays and it turns out that you did have a stress fracture to the wrist and a dislocated shoulder along with a stress fracture in it as well. Tim was outraged. You would need surgery before having your shoulder moved back in place.

When they got you changed into a gown while Tim made some calls. He walked back into your room; he saw you sleeping, he looked over your injuries and grew enraged. It wasn't long until Lucy was knocking on the door and he looked up surprised. Sure, he had texted in a group chat that you had made and he reluctantly was a part of, but he was surprised that anyone had shown up.

“Lucy, what are you doing here?” He asked surprised as he stood and she walked into the room and she hugged him.

“I saw the group chat and figured that you shouldn’t be alone so I came down.” She said and they released from the hug.

“Thank you, that means so much to us.” Tim said and offered her his chair while he grabbed another.

“So, what happened?” She asked and he told her all about it and how this wasn’t Coach Morgan’s first-time harming kids. “That is awful. Are you going to press charges?” She asked and he noted. 

“Yes, and I’m going to take him to court. This isn’t his first-time harming kids.” Tim said just then Grace walked back in and smiled and greeted Lucy.

“She’s going to wake up soon.  When did she last eat?” She asked

“Last time she ate was in the afternoon at lunch.” He spoke. It was 8 PM now so it had been 8 hrs.

“Since it has been 8 hrs. we can go ahead and run some bloodwork and then get her in surgery in the morning.” Grace said “I just need your permission.” She added.

“You have my permission.” He said and she smiled and nodded.

“Gino will be in here in a minute to take the samples. The sedative should wear off here in an hour.” She said and Tim nodded and she left the room. A few minutes later Gino was walking in and getting samples and then sending them off to the labs. 

“He really did a number on her didn’t he?” Lucy asked and Tim nodded

“Yea he did. It pisses me off.” He said and then it fell silent. Like Grace said an hour later you were waking up. Tim and Lucy were up in an instant.

“Daddy?” You asked groggily.

“You’re ok, Sweetheart. You’ve been admitted.” He said and then you looked around and saw Lucy and smiled.

“Lucy.” You said and she smiled and walked over and bent down and kissed your forehead.

“Hey, Mini Tim.” She said and Tim rolled his eyes. You had gotten the name because you were just like your father in more ways than one. 

“Sweetheart-” Your dad began “Your shoulder is dislocated and fractured and your wrist has a stress fracture in it. You also have a concussion and you had a seizure.” He told you and you took in the news. “You’re having surgery on it in the morning and staying here for a couple of days.” He said and you looked at him.

“Will I ever be able to play softball again?” You asked 

“That’s a question for Grace.” He spoke 

“Grace is my doctor?” You asked and he nodded and you smiled.

“Gino is your nurse.” Lucy said and that made you even more happy. A few minutes later Grace and Gino walked in and smiled when they saw you were up. 

“It’s good to see you up.” She said “I’m sure your dad already told you what is going on.” She added and you nodded “I ran a CT Scan on you to make sure nothing was damaged after the hit to the pole and there wasn’t anything.” She said “We ran bloodwork and everything looks good and we have you scheduled for tomorrow morning to fix your shoulder. Do you have any questions?” She asked and you nodded.

“Will I ever be able to play softball again?” You asked and she smiled.

“After physical therapy we will reassess but I highly believe that you will be able to.” She said and you smiled. 

The rest of the night was filled with talking and then Lucy had to leave and now it was just you and your dad. You stayed up for a little bit longer until you fell asleep and then after he made sure you were good and asleep, he allowed him to sleep your heart monitor luring him to sleep. 

——————————————————————

The next morning Tim was being woken up by a knock on the door and Grace and Gino were walking and he smiled. They began talking and that had woken you up. They greeted you and then began the process of talking to you about prepping for surgery and what they planned on doing. After a few minutes they were wheeling you into the prep room and had you count down from 100 and before you got to 88 you were out like a light and they were wheeling you into surgery. 

Tim was a nervous wreck; he had let everyone know what was happening and he wasn’t surprised that they had shown up. Wesley, Angela, Nolan, Lucy, Jackson, and Talia had showed up, they asked how it had happened and he told them. He told them how he was going to press charges and take him to court. Wesley said that he would be your lawyer. He also had called your school and let them know what was going on and then he called your assistant coach and trainer and they were down in an instant. They told him that they tried to tell Coach Morgan to back off but they were threatened to be fired and they watched the entire thing happen. Tim told them his plan and they supported him and said they would testify and knew other parents would too. 

1 hr. later they were done with surgery and Grace was walking out to them. “Everything was a success and she is to make a full recovery.” She said and she left and Gino and a few other nurses were wheeling you into your room. You were groggy and slept a lot. When you fully woke up you noticed Coach Colt and Amanda there and you smiled.

“Hey.” You said to them and they greeted you back. Every now and then you would nod off and they let you sleep as much as possible and Gino along with other nurses were in and out checking on you. They had put a few screws in your shoulder and fixed your dislocated shoulder. 

On your third day of being in the hospital your dad had to leave for a few hours but Lucy said she would stay with you. You both gossiped and you even talked about her being in love with your dad and how he wouldn’t admit it but he was so in love. When your dad came back you both acted like nothing happened but he had his suspicions.

On the fourth day you were finally released and were given instructions on how to take care of your shoulder and what exercises to do to keep your wrist and elbow from locking up. Your dad also told you that he had pressed charges against Coach Morgan and to take him to court as well and he talked with the sports director at school and the principal. 

 ——————————————————————

Court day arrived and you were dressed up and so was your dad. You walked into the courthouse and met Wesely and he hugged you gently. He obtained all the medical records from you and other cases and Tim had given him the pictures he had taken. Court started and it was tough going at first but it was turning in your favor when Wesley presented medical records from you and others along with the pictures and had you along with other team members and passed team members testify along with parents. Coach Colt and Trainer Amanda both testified.  It was a long-drawn-out process. There was a break for the jury to decide if he was guilty or not and it didn’t take them long. They came back and gave the judge the verdict and when they said guilty it was all over. Relief washed over you. Wesley turned to you and smiled. Coach Morgan was arrested for harming and putting a minor in the hospital and he was banned from coaching for life. You thanked Wesely profusely. “Thank you so much.” You said and he smiled.

“You’re part of the family and this family sticks together.” He said and then gently hugged you and kissed you head and then left. You and your dad left after talking to the others and Samantha, who had come and testified she also had provided a video that she secretly took and gave it over to evidence. Tim and you sat in the truck and you sighed in relief and he looked over and smiled.

“Everything is going to be ok now. He’s gone and can’t hurt you or anyone else anymore.” He said and leaned over and brought you in for a hug and held your head and kissed it.

“Thank you, dad. For everything.” You said and he smiled.

“Anything for my girl.” He said and then you smirked and he raised an eyebrow. 

“So, when are you and Lucy going to get together?” You asked 

“Not this again.” He said and you laughed and that made him smile. One of these days you were going to get him to admit it.

Tag list:

@kmc1989

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@atarmychick007

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[cheegu3]

hi do you think maybe you can do a yandere bully fanfic with all of enhypen and could you base it off the bully scenes from the glory like the curling iron scene? i was thinking this was a really good idea but if you haven’t seen it you can look up clips on youtube! ty 💓

hi, thank you for requesting! this is one of my favorite kdramas so I love you for this - this is not one of my best works as it's not very '' yandere '' but I hope you like it regardless :c <3

genre; yandere

wc; 2.5k

pairing; ot7!bully - enha x f.m reader

tw / trigger warning: yandere themes, severe/graphic bullying, burn marks, torture, SA (forced kissing) + mentions of potential non-con sex

Enhypen - as bullies (the glory themed)

The gym hall looked eerie in its emptiness, only the sunset shining through the tall windows gave some light to the room. A lone basketball laid close to the old hoop by the wall, you could practically hear the squeaking from Heeseung's shoes as he stood by it - making shot after shot while the others tortured you.

Dread had started to fill up in your body. At the end of the day when the school-bells rang to signal it was time to go home, an arm was laid around your shoulders. It was one of the two more flirty ones of the group, Jake. He was accompanied by their scary leader, Jungwon who joined your other side shortly after.

Panic flared up, an instinct your body had after all the torture it had endured; so you immediately tried to wriggle out of their grasp, but to no avail. Jake's hand snaked down around your waist instead, and he pulled you harshly towards his body.

To onlookers you might look like a sweet couple, walking each other home at the end of a long school day. But the truth was far from that.

'' Meet us in the gym in fifteen. '' Jungwon said.

That was all they said before walking in front of you and disappearing somewhere down the halls. You released a breath you didn't know you were holding in, feeling light-headed as you found a quiet spot to calm yourself down.

Fifteen minutes was still some alone time before you had to meet them. You could either spend those preparing for the worst or escaping, but the latter would likely have very grave consequences.

There was a problem though - you very much wanted to escape. Not because of the likely torment you'd be put through if you obeyed and went there. But because you had promised your mom you would pick her up from the hospital.

It was a horrible dilemma. Either keep your promise and suffer the consequences of their wrath once they realise you won't show up - or, show up, suffer, and betray your mom.

After a few moments of thinking, you had made up your mind. The recurring teary-eyed face you kept imagining if you didn't show up at the hospital, was enough for you to gather your things and exit the quiet area.

You scanned both directions before bolting for the front door, and you ran all the way to the bike rack; throwing yourself on the bike and leaving without looking behind you.

Unknown to you, there stood Sunoo on the top of the stairs to the entrance. He had been asked to guard it in case you would try to escape, but clearly hadn't been quick enough as you went past him and were gone in the blink of an eye. The usual cheery one of the group, nicknamed sunshine didn't look very happy now. A pout formed on his lips as he thought of the scolding he'd get for letting you slip past him.

'' Sunoo? ''

He forced his eyes shut and took a deep breath before turning around to the owner of the voice.

'' Yes, Ni-ki? '' he answered the taller male, who had probably been sent to fetch him.

The two guys who had practically been attached to the hip during the early days of joining the school knew each other so well, that the younger - Ni-ki, immediately knew something was wrong by the look on Sunoo's face.

'' Did she escape? ''

Sunoo sighed again and his head hung low, but the other simply gave him a hug while patting his back slightly.

'' It's okay, I'll make sure they won't be too mad. ''

They smiled at each other before heading in together. What you hadn't anticipated was that while Jungwon was very mad at Sunoo, he was even madder at you - and as a result of this, the group conjoined a very sinister revenge plan to show you to never disobey them again.

*******

The next day you walked to school with a hoodie on, hair covering most of your face and keeping your head low. There was about a 0% chance that the group would neither terrorize you or see you, yet the low profile still provided some relief.

The first class was art, one that you shared with Ni-ki, Jungwon and Sunghoon. Purposefully you got in late, taking the last place available which was at the back.

Throughout the whole lesson you could feel eyes on you, but to your surprise none of them came up or talked to you. Not even your painting was ruined in revenge, nor a childish note passed your way.

The bell rang again, and you held your breath. The room quickly emptied out but you could almost feel their presence still being there. Silence filled up the space. Then you heard the scraping of chairs being pushed away, and heard the footsteps getting nearer.

Finally you put on a somewhat brave face and looked up. You met eyes with Jungwon, and immediately your brave face fell. He had never looked this angry before, his eyebrow was almost twitching, and his eyes were burning with fury.

You stood up in an attempt to make the height difference from you sitting while he stood less, because it seemed to only intimidate you more. He still looked down at you unfortunately.

'' Where did you go yesterday? '' he spat out bitterly.

Taking too long to answer, or avoiding to all together felt like a death sentence in that moment so you hurriedly blurted out, all slurred. '' I had to go. ''

You saw Sunghoon and Ni-ki chuckle at your distressed state being so bad, you could barely speak. But Jungwon didn't find it the slightest amusing, his lips formed a thin line.

'' I thought we told you to meet us in the gym. ''

What were you supposed to say? Whatever you did, it would end the same way anyway. You bit your lip and nodded shamefully. He scoffed, making you look up again. It was the first time he had shown any emotion except for anger in the conversation - only now, something else was behind the smirk and glint in his eye.

Revenge

'' You're coming with us now, and this time you can't run away. '' Sunghoon said, coming up to you to hold you around the waist, the same way Jake had done.

He started moving you out of the door while Jungwon and Ni-ki followed close behind. Your heart sunk with every step you took towards the familiar place.

You could hear the slight clinking of the gym-keys that Jungwon held and were once again, painfully reminded of how powerless you were in this situation - no one was going to save you this time either.

But then you finally reached the destination, despite you relentlessly praying that someone would intervene or for some miracle thing to happen. Ni-ki had been given the key as you neared the gym and he unlocked it swiftly, being too used to it by now.

Inside were the others - Heeseung, Sunoo, Jake and Jay, all smiling wide as soon as you came through the doors. You heard them close behind you and the familiar heart-dropping sound of the keys turning again.

Heeseung was the first of the group to get up. He casually strolled over to the basketball hoop like he always did, smirking as he knew all attention was on him.

You almost started to feel sick when you noticed in the corner of your eye while looking at Heeseung, that Jake was moving towards you. No amount of repetition could ever brace you for his hands roaming over your body, as one of them forced you in place so he could sloppily kiss you.

The boy in front of you rolled his eyes and groaned as he was interrupted before it went to far, like always. He gave you one last look before both him and Jay lead you to the plinth.

Jay's cold and harsh hands hooked under your thighs to lift you up and you complied, almost too tired already to fight back.

You closed your eyes and mentally prepared for the slaps you'd get as they would line up in front of you; almost like a game.

But...it never came.

You opened your eyes again, just as you heard snickers scattered across the gym. Sunoo was in front of you with Jungwon to his side, meanwhile Jake and Jay were still standing on either sides of you to hold you down.

Their fingers took an iron-grip around your wrists as you instinctively started trying to get out of their hold. Sunoo looked a bit sorry for you as he stepped up, his eyes were practically begging for mercy which was unusual. The boy usually looked embarrassingly excited to kiss you every time he was glad to be the one to do that to you, rather than hurt you. That one time he was forced to, he cried so he never had to do it after.

You gave him a questioning look before he smashed his lips against you, knocking the breath out of your lungs. As you were about to pull away to gasp for air, something boiling hot was pressed firmly against your forearm.

The sound of skin sizzling combined with your blood-curling scream echoed in the empty gym.

You continued to scream out in pain until your throat was hoarse while your whole body was squirming to get away from the fire-like sensation.

The object was removed but it continued to burn. It was a pain you'd never felt before; as if your skin was on fire. Sunoo pulled away and you had the chance to look down at the injury.

An ugly red mark had already been left after the thing, and you almost felt like crying.

Meeting his sad eyes, yours traveled down to his hand. Eyes widening upon discovering he was holding a curling iron.

'' We got it from one of the girls. '' Jay said before you felt him release his grip on you.

You immediately fought back even harder against the irritated Jake; but Jungwon quickly took over Jay's previous spot, his eyes boring into yours being enough for you to quiet down.

The item was handed over to Jay who stepped closer, it must've been his turn. Unlike Sunoo, he looked very excited; like he had been waiting for this moment for a long time and would relish the pain you'd feel. His lips curved up into a smirk as he saw you panic the closer the curling iron got to you.

'' No, please! '' you begged, despite your pride.

Tears were freely falling down your face as you struggled to breathe. They weren't holding you down entirely but it felt like they were pressing your chest down.

Your bullies just watched amusedly as you started hyperventilating, pleas spilling out of your mouth.

'' Please- please...don't do this. ''

He was now so close that your legs were on either side of his body.

'' Do you know why we're doing this? ''

You were quiet, whimpering as you racked your brain trying to come up with an explanation for the most excruciating thing they'd put you through so far.

Jay was getting impatient. The only thing that could be heard in the vast hall for seconds was the basketball bouncing, a sound you'd grown familiar with. It was like a ticking clock, the faster it bounced the more impatient the bullies got.

'' I-I didn't show up yesterday. '' you hurried to blurt out when noticing his hand carrying the curling-iron hovering closer to your arm.

He smiled again, although it didn't quite reach his eyes which sent alarm-bells ringing inside you. This was the biggest mistake of your life. You could really tell as you turned your head and stared into Jungwon's dark eyes, that they were not going to let you go until you had suffered, much more.

And then without warning he pressed the item onto your skin again. You screamed louder than before as he pushed it even deeper into your skin than Sunoo had.

Jungwon and Jake had to use all of their strength to hold you down, as your back arched and you had almost successfully gotten out of their grasp.

Finally, after seconds he removed it. But yet again it didn't prove to be much better. The two wounds burned and itched tremendously. You had the urge to scratch them until you'd see blood, however; all you could do was cry and cry, and cry. Their taunting laughs rang in your head which made you get louder.

The sobbing turned into wailing, mixed with screaming as you continued to fight against your bullies that were holding you down. Jake grimaced, a look of both fascination and annoyance painted on his face.

'' You're so fucking loud. '' he spat.

'' Heeseung, shut her up! '' you heard Ni-ki shout.

And the sound of the basketball bouncing stopped. So did your crying as you felt nauseous at the new sound of their footsteps nearing you.

This time, you knew what was coming. Sunghoon was following him behind, and you were sure they would take turns while mocking you and smirking.

'' No..No- stop! '' you were letting out panicked whimpers now as you thrashed around even more than before.

It annoyed Jake and Jungwon, who now had to push you down from the front as tried your hardest to fight them off.

'' Please...Jungwon '' you pleaded.

'' Jake? ''

'' Sunoo? ''

But it fell to deaf ears, and before you knew it - they had arrived much faster than you would've hoped for. Ni-ki picked up the ball in the background and the younger guys left to go play as Jay took back his old spot.

Ni-ki, Jungwon and Sunoo were scary, but the older ones were much more terrifying. They tortured you in such a personal and violating, psychological way.

And it was so bad, to the point that you started to hyperventilate as soon as you got eye-contact with one of them.

'' Missed me? '' Heeseung cockily asks as he gets closer to you, eying your lips like a hungry predator.

'' Stop! Get off of m- ''

He shut you up by pressing his lips against yours. When you tried to turn your head, he forcefully grabbed your chin and kissed you even harder.

Then he pulled back and you took a deep breath, shaking in fear. The soles of your shoes dug into the plinth as Jay and Jake dragged you up so you were laying on the stage.

Sunghoon crawled on top of you and gave you an evil smile as he went for a kiss much nastier than Heeseung's. Your fingers curled as your nails tried digging into thin-air.

Muffled laughs of Jake were heard in the background as he put his whole bodyweight on top of your arm so Sunghoon could kiss you without you moving one millimeter.

Jay followed suit; and then you were immobile, only your legs kicked in protest as Sunghoon's tongue explored the inside of your mouth.

You were struggling to breathe, and you weren't sure how long you were gonna last until you'd pass out.

The thought of them being alone with you like that - terrified you.

[txtmetonight]

Unrequited love

call summary ⋆ ★ Small head canons of unrequited love

pairing *. * Hyung Line x Fem! Reader

genre⋆ ★ Angst, slight fluff, head canons with storylines

warnings *. * Toxic Relationship, Implied cheating, Hanahaki Disease (blood, throwing up flowers), breakdowns, bad grammar

call duration⋆ ★ 1.2k

a/n*. *  been in my drafts for soooo long, but whatever. Hope you enjoy!

taglist ⋆ ★  @kflixnet

part 2

Heeseung˚ · • . ° . fall out

✭ Heeseung was the love of your life, he was your first love, your first kiss, the first person you woke up in the morning next to

✭ He fell first but you fell harder, and god you're not sure if you regret it or not

✭ You were probably his classmate in middle school, someone who just sat next to him in some of his classes, and at first, you didn't really catch his eye

✭ And though you don't really remember your first official encounter with him he definitely did

✭ You gave him your umbrella after a long day of school, telling him to keep it with a small smile on your face as your parents come by to pick you up

✭ He swore that the exact moment replayed like an old videotape in his mind, in his dreams, and how giddy it made him feel, how lucky he was to have a girl like you

✭ Warm kisses, soft cuddles, loving gifts, cringe- worthy photos and his hand always tucked in the back pocket of your jeans

✭ You wonder what happened

✭ Though being together forever started with a promise ring, the heart-wrenching changes started gradually to your dismay

✭ He first started to blow you off from your weekly dates, coming up with some random ass excuse

✭ Then he proceeded to spend his time with his friends rather than with you... and somehow by coincidence, there was always the new girl in every single picture he took from his "hangouts"

✭ It didn't really take that long for them to start texting, each text they sent sending your stomach in a gut-twisting sob

✭ Fuck, you really should've seen it coming and it didn't help that Heeseung practically spelled it out for you

✭ Because the next thing you know, Heeseung was placing his flirty touches all over her, he was playing with her hair, her fingers, and then her lips before slipping his hand into hers, taking her to the next room over

✭ While you watch silently with a broken heart and burning tears

Jay ˚ · • . ° . childhood best friends

✭ You two were best friends due to your mothers being childhood friends themselves

✭ Which meant that you've known Jay your whole life

✭ The first time you've acknowledged your long-lasting crush on him was when he carried you home after a nasty wound had made you immobile in your legs and he cried and cried to make you feel better before deciding to suck it up and piggyback you the nearest hospital

✭ You've watched him grow up, and you were scared, so scared because it was only you and Jay, no one else and you didn't want that to change

✭ So maybe introducing a new friend to him wasn't the best idea

✭ Because soon enough, Jay and (Y/n)'s movie night became Jay, (Y/n) and your friend's movie night

✭ A two-person study date turned into three inside jokes that you've both known for a decade, ones you swore to never share with others...

✭ Well surprise she knew them too

✭ And you couldn't even do anything...you loved them too much

✭You would rather have your heart stabbed over a hundred times than ruin your friendship with your best friend, the love of your life

✭ So it was no shocker when you agreed to help Jay out when he came running up to you in a panic, questioning what he should do to court your best friend

✭ Only for her to ask the same thing that night unaware of the silent heartbreak you were going through

Jake · • . ° . hanahaki

✭ The sweet boy who bothered you every morning with tooth-rotting smiles

✭ Quickly became your seat mate and then your partner for some physics project and then your friend

✭ Somewhere in that whole process, you fell for him–hard

✭ So so hard that it sometimes hurt too much to breathe, because he was just so handsome and kind and everything in between

✭ You were actually planning to keep your crush to yourself and you were extremely content with that plan at first

✭ And to be honest, you two were already acting like a couple

✭ Holding hands, snuggling up while watching a movie, late-night talks, small pecks to the forehead

✭ You weren't really threatened at all–until you saw him flirting with the girl next to him in English

✭ So that's when you decided that you were going to ask him out, and he surely was going to say yes right?

✭ Wrong because the next thing you know, you're being rejected by a sheepish smile, eyes flickering towards the flowers that were starting to wilt in your hand, mimicking your mood

✭ Guess that you underestimated your love for him

✭ Because you're suddenly throwing up flowers and blood in the school bathroom, choking on the thorns that drag up your throat with each painful lurch

✭ Blood drips down your lips and you're not sure what to do with yourself anymore

✭ Your heart wails from agony and your lungs scream at you to stop

✭ But you can't just stop loving Jake, because he was still oh so fucking, stupidly dear to you, and you being dumb enough, you choose to remain as close friends

✭ Yet as the world spins, and you watch him grow more in love with that English major girl, you wonder if your adoration for him was worth more than your life...

Sunghoon · • . ° . fake dating

✭ You were always a mess–you think

✭ So that's why you said yes, to Sunghoon's proposal right a week or two after you had just broken up with

✭ And honestly, it didn't seem too bad then, you both wanted another person jealous, he wanted his crush to notice him and you wanted your ex back...kinda

✭ But you didn't expect that the cold prince was so heart-thawing, so sweet and kind

✭ He always tended to your every need, always asked for consent before anything with you

✭ And in the weakness of getting over your ex, your beating organ sought out him, and he easily returned it...or rather pretended to

✭ With his lips on yours, you felt a sense of blissfulness you haven't felt in a while and with his hand holding yours, you don't want this dream to end

✭ Your brain started to warp up the lines between pretend and real, but Sunghoon was always grounded in reality, because his eyes always imagined her when he was with you, and that's why you think he blinked a little longer than usual, with you by his side

✭ But you're always brought back with a slap when Sunghoon cuts through the act, immediately stopping when the actual light of his eye is gone, always laughing with you about it, yet still holding that longing look in his eyes

✭ He was too blind to notice your relentless yearning, or maybe he did and he ignored it...you're not very sure

✭ And finally, the dreaded day comes, and he breaks the news to you after another ice skating date, over some hot fries and a shared strawberry milkshake

✭ "She told me that she liked me..." He hums to you, still feeding you a fry, and it takes everything in you to not break down crying, nodding at his words

✭ "We can break up now..not that we were ever actually dating in the first place!" He chuckles, and over his loud laughter, he doesn't notice the tears you let out, or the choked sobs you cage

✭ You're a fucking disaster

[dollyyun]

𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬 | 02

SYPNOSIS: wherein Hwang Stella's life is tangled in a predicament involving her clandestine identity as a racer, her seemingly daily life as the official heir to the Hwang Empire, and seven guys with whom she has a complex history with. PAIRING: non!idols enhypen members x fem!oc. GENRE: 18+ (mdni), reverse harem, chaebols, semi-college, racing, eventual adulthood, eventual enha being f1 drivers, multiple povs and written in first pov. WARNINGS: expletives, drama. WORD COUNT: 6k+ TAGLIST: @aishigrey @kgneptun

✘ SERIES MASTERLIST ✘

I reach out for my jacket in the backseat before carefully wrapping it around her fragile body, which seems to be shivering from the cold. As I do so, Stella stirs lightly in her sleep before she turns her head to face me.

I look at her, feeling at ease upon seeing how peacefully she looks in her sleep. Her long lashes kiss under her eyes, and her naturally pink lips form a tiny pout. I smile faintly at myself. She looks exactly as she did whenever she fell asleep.

I can't resist brushing the few strands of her hair from her face, and so I gently tuck them behind her ear. I find myself gently brushing her soft cheek with my thumb.

I regret what happened. I regret breaking her heart. I regret being such a dumbass to fall for a trap.

Just how cruel was it to leave Stella behind when I promised that I'd be her best friend forever? Fuck.

What makes it complicated is the fact that she was my first love as well. My feelings for her have always been there, deep in my tainted heart.

Even as I have tried moving on and going out with other girls, they're just not Stella. In the end, I broke all of their hearts by leaving and ghosting them without any explanation. Just like I did to her.

Fuck, I'm such the worst. If I had recognised the trap in the first place, we wouldn't be like this. Strangers with memories of each other.

Last week, when I had to chase after her to return her wallet, my heart broke when she cried into my arms, and I know the reason she cried was because of Jake and Rena. As much as I would've liked to be happy that she is no longer with Jake, I couldn't. I remembered how genuinely happy she looked whenever they were together on campus.

Then something happened. Something that also affected the friendship dynamic between the seven of us. Something that I should investigate soon.

I look at Stella once more. "I miss you, and I'm sorry, Stel." I mumble sadly.

A low sigh escapes my lips before I reluctantly pull my hand away from her precious face. I redirect my focus to the road. Thankfully, there are no other vehicles at the junction we're at, as the light has turned green for a while.

As I drive to the street where her mansion resides, all I can think about is the party at Sunghoon's. Truth be told, I disapprove of Stella going.

I have a bad feeling about it. Especially given that some of the guys are not on good terms. Let's just hope it's nothing.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

The unmistakable cough that belongs to my mother is resounding as I tread along this familiar corridor. I nod in acknowledgment upon noticing the faces of nurses who greet me with pleasant smiles, but my face remains vacant. Right after my last lecture ended early, I decided to head to the hospital.

Each time I come here, I've grown to despise the hospital. Moreover, I despise seeing my mother on the hospital bed. Four months ago, one of the helpers found my mother lying on the bathroom floor, unconscious. There was also a minor bleed on her head. Her health has deteriorated ever since. She's even more fragile and needs supervision at all times, according to the doctor.

Arriving near her room, my hand reaches up to knock, but I halt when I hear my father's voice as well as my brother's. I hesitate to enter while my hand withdraws. Why the hell is my father here? Has he finally come to be a proper husband now?

Just as I'm about to step, I hear light footsteps rushing towards the door. I silently cuss. My silhouette must've caught his attention. Alas, the ajar door swings entirely open.

"Jungwon hyung!"

My lips form into a faint smile as I bend down to welcome my little brother into a hug, to which he latches his limbs around me flimsily.

My little brother, who has just turned six, Yang Subin, is the apple of my eye. Melancholy brims within me, prompting me to hug Subin tighter. I was supposed to have two little brothers, one of whom was also supposed to be Subin's twin. Unfortunately, he didn't survive through childbirth. We lamented over his death, but my mother fell into depression. Her grievance lasted more than awhile; she was unable to eat proper meals and had trouble sleeping.

I was only sixteen, and it broke my heart to witness the state of my mother.

Since my father was often busy with work and business, I have had to step in and fulfil my duty as an older brother. Thanks to my part-time nanny, she taught me how to change a baby's diaper, the milk preparations, and the correct method to swaddle a baby. Though my nanny should be the one to do all of those, I insisted since she had to supervise my mother.

It was laborious because I had to juggle between school and taking care of Subin. At times, I did find myself resenting my parents for leaving me to do it all, especially my father. I get that he's a businessman, but it wouldn't hurt to step up and be a father to Subin and to me.

I was a child too, and I needed both my parents.

Thankfully, when Subin hit the age of three, he was easy to handle, and my nanny insisted that she look after him. So I was quite flexible, being able to spend my time with my friends and by myself while also spending time with Subin whenever. That was also when my mother recovered from her grievance.

At that point in time, I had discovered a hobby I was passionate about. I was influenced by my friends and was pulled into the world of racing. Even though I knew nothing of racing, I was sharp-witted and learned so much. Now, racing is something I hold close to my heart.

It is risky on my part, considering I'm a Chaebol and racing is deemed preposterous in the world of high class, but I don't really care. Besides, it looks like my father is not making me an heir anytime soon.

"Jungwon." My mother smiles at me as I lean down to embrace her in a hug, being as careful as I can. My mother, despite how evidently the deterioration of her health has affected her appearance, still looks beautiful. Her kind gaze, her gentle smile, and how strong she truly is, despite the fact that my father had broken her heart one or two times, which I've seen firsthand.

"Jungwon." My father greets me as though I'm one of his employees. Not wanting to look at his face, I merely nod my head while I keep my eyes trained on my mother.

"Dad! Can we buy banana milk?" Subin asks adorably as he tilts his head.

"Of course we can, son." My father's tone sounds warm, and I feel the familiar bitterness on my tongue. Towards Subin, he's a completely different person. It's as if he decided to finally step up and become a proper father to Subin.

"Hyung! Hyung!" Subin tugs at my hand, beaming with a smile of excitement. "Can you follow us? Pleaseeee?"

Thankfully, my mother decides to intervene. "Mommy wants to talk to Hyungie first, okay?"

"Fine." Subin huffs, crossing his arms over his chest with a pout on his lips. "Come on, Dad!"

We remain silent until we hear the door close. Finally, I exhale, feeling relief, and the tension dissipates. My mother gives me a knowing look.

I raise my eyebrow. "What is it?"

She sighs. "You know what, Jungwon."

"I've told you, Mom, it's impossible for us to reconcile." I answer, concealing my frustration as I run my fingers through my hair. "I prefer things the way they are now."

The sadness brimming in her eyes crushes my heart. "Your father had apologised and amended matters with me."

"I'm happy for you, Mom, truly. But I don't think I could ever forgive him for failing to be a father to me." I give her a bitter smile.

My mother sighs once more before shaking her head. "Anyway, I've been meaning to talk to you about this. What happened between you and Stella, dear?"

I visibly flinch, and my frown deepens. Why is she suddenly bringing this up now?

Nonetheless, I respond to her as I lower my gaze. "It's nothing, Mom. We've only drifted apart, and we're both busy with our lives. This happens to friendships often than you think. It's normal."

My mother smiles sadly. "I'm sure it isn't. Especially when my son has lost his spark ever since." She holds my hand tenderly while I refuse to look at her. "I know, Jungwon. You might think that I didn't notice, but I do. I didn't want to pry, but I remembered how heartbroken you looked."

Before I can respond, my mother tilts my head up with her finger. She frowns. "Did she hurt you?"

I shake my head. "No, it's actually complicated." I force out a chuckle. "Let's just say that there were misunderstandings on both sides."

"I've always liked that girl." My mother hums. "Even though she's a Hwang, I did approve of her in any case you wished to wed her."

"Mom." I let out a groan, burying my face into my palms. "We were only best friends."

"Your father and I were best friends too." My mother laughs lightly. "You could never know what fate had planned for you."

Don't worry, mom. Our fate has already been planned at the moment I broke her heart. It's clear that Stella and I can never mend the broken fences.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

Friday is my favourite day of the week. Not only does my last lecture end early, but it is also the day where we usually race at the fixed venue against other teams. The racing arena is massive and is also owned by Sunghoon's uncle. Sunghoon is truly one rich guy. I mean, the rest of us are wealthy, but Sunghoon is different. I swear, that guy could buy an island if he wanted to.

Another is that it used to be the seven of us against other teams, but things happened, leading to our separation. Now it's four against three. Thankfully, Sunoo, Ni-Ki, and I are still on good terms. But I can't say the same to the other guys.

"Jungwon!" Sunoo waves at me from afar, where he is also with Heeseung and Ni-Ki. Since Jake and Jay have yet to arrive, I walk over to the other team with the intention of greeting them.

"I thought you weren't going to show up." Sunoo says after bro-hugging me. "How's your mother?"

"She's doing a little better." I reply with a small smile. I don't miss the way Heeseung glances at me while he is busily adjusting his leather jacket.

"What happened to your mother?" Heeseung breaks the ice, prompting me to meet his gaze.

Heeseung and I have no feuds, but maybe it's the fact that I'm much closer to Jay, so that explains why we often have this unexplainable cold war between him and me. Truth be told, I like Heeseung, and I used to look up to him as an older brother figure I wish I had. He was the first friend I made during our first year of orientation week.

I rub my nape, feeling awkward. "Her health deteriorated, but she's doing better with therapy and medications."

Heeseung slowly nods his head before looking away from me. "I see. Tell her that I wish her a speedy recovery."

"Will do." I respond as I watch him make his way towards his Ferrari. I miss him, and I miss the way the seven of us were together.

"Where the fuck are Jay and Jake? The race should be starting soon." Sunghoon's voice approaches us from behind, the irritation is identifiable in his voice. "What are you doing here, Jungwon?"

"Good to see you too, Sunghoon." Sarcasm laces my tone as I look at him. "I'm just here to greet my friends and wish them good luck. You know, good sportsmanship and all."

It seems that I manage to annoy Sunghoon, but not enough to gain his full attention on me as he waves me off dismissively while proceeding to walk towards Heeseung. From what I remember, Heeseung and Sunghoon are maternal cousins, but their friendship is just like any other. They're close, but not as close as he was with Jay and Jake.

It confounded me when I found out that Sunghoon chose to cut ties with Jay and Jake because the three of them were closer than everyone thought, and their bond was admirable. In the end, Sunghoon remains fiercely loyal to Heeseung.

As for Sunoo and Ni-Ki, they're the only ones that the rest of the guys have no issue with and can freely interact with. Even Heeseung informed them that they could choose to team up with Jay and Jake, but they insisted and stayed with him and Sunghoon.

So yeah, that's how complicated our dynamic is.

"Good evening, boys." A familiar, manly voice greets us before I turn to see Sunghoon's uncle, Park Junho, walking towards us with a fatherly smile etched on his face. A chorus of 'hey' and 'what's up' is delivered by us to him, to which he smiles even wider.

"I know it's rare for me to visit you guys, but I have small news to break." Junho announces. "There will be a new racer joining us tonight. She's the niece of a good friend of mine, though he's nowhere to be found now." Junho sighs, the worry in his eye is evident. "Anyway, I trust that you all will look out for her because I know how indecent the other racers can be towards women who race."

True that.

"Sure, Uncle." Sunghoon nods his head in affirmation. "So is she joining tonight as a one-time thing or??"

Junho purses his lips, lines creasing on his forehead, as he seems to be thinking. "I'm not entirely sure. But I did inform her that she's welcome to be a permanent crew member here."

"Who is she, anyway?" Sunoo asks, throwing gum into his mouth.

Oddly, Junho's expression changes, looking as though he's hiding something. "I can't tell you, as I've made a promise that I will keep her identity confidential."

"Mysterious and a potential hot lady?" Sunghoon smirks, to which I roll my eyes. Typical. "I can't wait to meet her."

"Behave, son." Junho gives him a knowing look. "We don't want to scare her away now."

"Don't worry, Uncle." Ni-Ki slings an arm around Sunghoon's shoulder roughly. "I'll make certain he behaves himself."

Sunghoon shoots Ni-Ki a playful scowl before attempting to push him away. "I'm older than you, kid."

Junho shakes his head at their childish banter before excusing himself to speak with Heeseung privately.

"Jungwon! What are you doing with this lame bunch?" I stagger forward when Jay's arm slings around my shoulder.

"Lame bunch?!" Sunghoon gasps dramatically before throwing daggers at Jay with his glare. "Why, I ought to skin your ass alive─"

But I'm too preoccupied to listen to their usual squabble, as I see something that is dreadful enough to make me lose the mood to race.

There's Hwang Rena, walking hand-in-hand with Jake. What the hell is she doing here?

I don't seem to realise that I'm too busy glaring at Rena for quite some time before I feel Jay's finger poking my cheek. "Why does a cat like you look like you're going to pounce on someone?" He asks with an amused grin.

"Why is Rena here?" I accidentally say it out loud with such disdain, prompting the other guys to turn their heads at the couple.

Rena, who is dressed as though she is about to participate in the race, with the exception that she's wearing a skirt, beams at us with a smile. "Hey, guys!"

Jay gives her a nod, whereas the others greet her with a chorus of 'hi' and 'hey'. As for me? I don't bother. I refuse to waste my breath on someone like her.

"What are you doing here, Rena?" Ni-Ki asks as he puts on his black, fingerless gloves. He stares at her with an arched eyebrow. "I don't suppose you'll be joining us in the race."

Rena chuckles lightheartedly, but even her chuckles are enough to burn my ears. "I wish I could race, but nope! I'm here to support Jakey!"

I watch as she tiptoes to aim a kiss on Jake's lips, but much to my amusement, she only manages to kiss his cheek as Jake turns his head. I don't bother to conceal my smirk at the visible disappointment written on her face.

Sunghoon's loud groan garners our attention. There is pure annoyance on his face. "What a sight for sore eyes! Can you three go back to your stations? Your presence here is not welcomed."

"Gladly." Jay says snidely before pulling me with him while Rena still clings to Jake.

Just then, a blaring engine startles us before we look at the source of the sound. My eyes widen at the sight of a purple Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 before pulling up at one of the empty stations.

Even Jake and Jay are still gaping at the sight, because we recognise other racers and their motorsport vehicles. Whoever the person is, that must be the girl Junho talked to us about.

Finally, the long-awaited reveal. She steps out of the car as gracefully as she does. Her hair is the shade of caramel with blond highlights as they cascade down her shoulders wavy. Her outfit consists of white leather. But she has concealed her face with a pair of sunglasses and a black mask that covers half of her face. The only visible feature is her forehead.

Though she stands far from us, I can discern the aura she emits. Intimidating, cold, and potent. It reminds me of a certain someone, except that she has plain dark hair while this mysterious lady has a different hair shade.

But as I look closely, her physique resembles Stella's. I shake my head at the thought of it. Nah, Stella is not the type to be involved in such an illicit activity. Stella would never waste her time on any of this. She's too busy with her life now that she's the official heir of the Hwang.

Little did I know that I would be proven wrong eventually.

Compared to the previous arenas I've ever raced at, this is by far the biggest. What astonishes me greatly is the spectacular roof light that allows us to see the skies. This is an excellent method of preventing rain from entering, as previous incidences have resulted in catastrophic harm to participants due to inclement weather.

Maybe I should consider Junho's offer in regards to being a permanent crew member here. Park Junho, aka my great-nemesis's uncle and my uncle's good friend, is a racing expert, and from my research, he has also participated in the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Initially, I had no idea that he knew my uncle. I only knew him as Sunghoon's uncle, though I've only seen him twice at business functions.

The only explanation for how I finally knew that he was friends with my uncle was all thanks to the person whom I've hired to search for anyone who had some form of connection with my uncle. So I reached out to him, informing him of who I am and how imperative it was for him to meet me, which happened three days ago.

We met at a cafe and talked. Strangely enough, the way he carried himself and his personality reminded me of my uncle. I could see why they got along so well. I'm glad that I could place my trust in him, as he too had the same goal.

For some peculiar reason, some of my relatives gave me vague answers that didn't really apply to my question about my uncle's whereabouts. Not only that, but my parents, especially my father, forbade me from asking questions in relation to my uncle and searching for him.

I didn't dare to ask why, given how it seemed as though it was paramount not to inquire anymore. But it feels as though I've been purposely kept in the dark. And so, I've decided to take matters into my own hands.

I'm not dumb enough to notice that they were all sketchy as fuck. I know it isn't right to assume, but there might be a possibility that they were involved in my uncle's disappearance.

How fucked up it is to not be able to trust your family and instead trust someone outside of the bloodline. Though I hope that my assumption is wrong. 

As soon as I pull over to one of the empty stations, I put on my mask and sunglasses before exiting my Lamborghini. I love her as though she's my baby. I adjust the crop-top leather jacket around my figure before my gaze settles on the familiar figures from afar.

I'm not surprised to see them because Junho did inform me that they're permanent crew members here. But what genuinely surprises me is that they're split into two different teams instead of one. When I was still with Jaeyun, he did tell me that he and the other guys were involved in the racing business and were a team. I wonder what happened.

But wait, is that Hwang fucking Rena? What the hell is she doing here, out of all places? Oh, right. Jaeyun. I ignore the bitterness that feels like acid in my throat.

As long as I don't remove my mask and sunglasses, I'm good. I just have to be careful enough if any of them decide to interact with me. I could probably try to speak in a lower octave.

Realising that they're not going to stop staring at me anytime soon, I make my way inside, hoping to meet Junho again or head to the cafeteria to buy some refreshments.

Deciding to head to the cafeteria, I spot other racers socialising and mingling around. Heads turn as I walk past them, but I continue to make my way towards one of the stalls that sell drinks. After I pay for an energy drink, I turn around, but I bump into a solid figure that causes me to drop my drink, thanks to my loose grip.

But as I bend down, my sunglasses slide down, dropping to the ground as well. I mutter a cuss. At least my eye makeup looks fiercer than usual, so no one could recognise me at first glance.

"Sorry." It happens fast, because when I touch my bottle, so does the person. What's worse is that he is the last person I ever want to see.

I don't mean to glance up, but the instant I do so, my eyes lock with his, and while our hands touch, it feels as though there's electricity between us.

"It's fine." I answer him as gruffly as I can, quickly snatching my bottle and my sunglasses before walking away from him in haste.

I'm positive he didn't recognise me since I was swift. Besides, he only managed to notice my eyes at first glance, and he didn't even look that surprised, as though he had expected who I was.

Wait a minute.

My eyes widen in a dreadful realisation while my heart beats harder than usual. Oh, fuck.

Just before I can quickly make my way back to the station, a hand latches itself around my wrist with no intention of letting go, dragging me along with him to God knows where. I suppress making any remarks, not wanting to give away the final clue to who I am. Or maybe he already had a hunch from the moment his gaze stayed on me with such intensity earlier.

We are now in a secluded corner, far from any prying eyes or ears, with the only sound that can be heard faintly through these walls being the arena's speakers playing music.

Finally, he turns around and looks at me with a piercing gaze that I find myself flinching lightly from. If anything, he looks dissatisfied.

"You can remove your sunglasses and mask now." That is an order. "I know that you're you, Stella. Did you really think you could fool me?"

Oh, now it's my turn to be pissed off. Fine, then.I remove my sunglasses, and once I do, my eyes burn with hatred as we maintain eye contact while I remove my mask. I click my tongue in annoyance. "Maybe next time, try not to drag a girl like that without consent."

"I would never do that to anyone without consent, but I needed to get you out of there. There were too many eyes on you." Now he seems pissed. With one hand on his waist, he runs his fingers through his hair with the other in frustration before settling his gaze on me once more. "What the hell were you thinking? You're into racing now? Do you realise how many racers out there belong to the same society as us and the fact that you could get into deep trouble if they know who you are? You're the official Hwang heir, Stella!"

I don't deter, standing firm on my ground despite how hurt I am that he raises his voice at me. "Even if I am into racing, so what? Even if they might find out who I am, so what?" My voice comes out shaky as I struggle to remain calm. I take a step towards him, mustering the coldest glare I can, as our eye contact never falters. "Yeah, I might get into trouble, big time. But what's it to you, Yang Jungwon?"

Jungwon clenches his jaw and takes a step towards me, causing my breaths to hitch in my throat at the close proximity between us. "Because I care, Hwang Stella."

A scoff leaves my lips before I can even hold back. "Don't lie to me. We both know that you don't give a damn about me, at least not anymore."

"That's the thing, Stella! I did care for you, and I still do!" This time, there is a raw emotion that is palpable in his voice. My eyebrows furrow, noticing the desperation in his eyes. His voice drops to a whisper, sounding as vulnerable as ever. "Please believe me."

I want to, I really do. But the memory of him ignoring and abandoning me without any explanations when I really needed him the most still hurts me. I don't know if I can forgive him. My eyes turn glossy with each blink as I tighten my grip on my bottle.

"Go back to being the heartless jerk, Jungwon." My voice betrays the firm stance I put up as it cracks. "Don't make me hate you more than I already do."

"Stella, wait─"

Refusing to listen to what he has to say, I turn around, ready to leave him, but upon seeing Heeseung, who is standing a few metres from us, When his eyes meet mine, he doesn't seem too surprised, but at the same time, he does. His eyes flicker at Jungwon briefly.

"Shit." I hear Jungwon cuss lowly behind me. "Heeseung, don't tell anyone about this─"

"Uncle Junho was looking for you." Heeseung interrupts, his tone sounds calm. "You should go."

I can feel Jungwon's burning gaze on me before he finally leaves, feeling a cold breeze when he walks past me. Even after Jungwon is out of my sight, I remain in my spot with my gaze lowered.

"Stella─"

"Don't." I shake my head. "I know what you're going to say."

Heeseung approaches me slowly. "I was about to ask if you're okay."

I lift my head up, seeing how genuine he looks. I give him a terse smile. "I'm fine."

Heeseung raises his eyebrow as attractively as he does so. "Really? Somewhere along the lines, I heard you say you hated Jungwon. I didn't know you two were close enough for you to hate him."

It's clear that Heeseung is the persistent type. So I answer him flatly. "No offence, Heeseung, but it's not in any of your business to pry."

"I thought we were friends. Hence, the reason why I asked if you were okay." Heeseung scans me once more. "If you insist that you're okay, then why do you look like you're on the verge of tears?"

Damn me and my sudden inability to hold back my emotions. I attempt to wipe the tears that are already rolling down my cheeks, but I am stopped by Heeseung as he holds my wrist gently.

"Allow me." Heeseung's thumb brushes away the tears on my cheeks gently as he does so. I flicker my gaze to his face, noticing the frown on his pink lips while he seems to be focused. Against my will, my heart flutters with how gentle he is.

Pausing his action while I feel him still cradling my face, his eyes meet mine once again. He gazes at me with such tenderness that I find myself tearing up again.

"I don't know what happened to you and your past, but you didn't deserve any of it." He says ever so softly. "Do you want a hug?"

I let out a small chuckle while my tears run down freely. "Yes, please."

Heeseung opens his arms wide, inviting me into his warm embrace as I wrap my arms around him. I close my eyes and allow myself to relax. I lean into him, our bodies touching. The pleasant smell of his cologne tempts me to bury my head into his chest.

I feel him patting my back gently. "It's going to be okay, Stel."

I shake my head before I lean my forehead against his shoulder and sigh deeply. "I don't know, Heeseung. I'm just too afraid of getting hurt again and again. I've had enough."

"Don't worry. I'll protect you from whoever intends to harm you."

My chuckle sounds muffled against his shoulder before I tilt my head up to look at his side profile. "What, you want to be my knight in shining armour?" I jest. "I'm not some damsel in distress, Heeseung."

"We're friends now, aren't we?" He looks down at me. A peculiar emotion glimmers in his eyes before his gaze darkens. "I can assure you, sweetheart, that I protect what's mine. If you need me to keep your identity confidential, I will do so. Whatever you want or need, I'm at your service."

It is peculiar. My heart has been fluttering, but this time it has intensified. Under his dark gaze, I feel as though I'm prey, unable to find any escape route.

"Thanks, Heeseung." I offer him a small smile in return before I pull away from his embrace, despite how comfy it is to be hugged by him. "We should head back."

Heeseung nods in agreement. We proceed to make our way back to our respective stations, while the look in his eyes is something I'm unable to erase. Though I feel like I can trust him, I can't seem to ignore his gaze that was looking at me. Danger.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

Throughout my racing endeavours, my stunning, sleek purple Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 has never disappointed me. Maybe it's because I invest an ample amount of maintenance in her and take great care of her, or maybe it's because of my skills, but victory inevitably comes my way. However, I believe that the triumph belongs not only to me but also to her. I would not have accomplished it without her. We're a team.

"Let's score another victory, yeah?" I murmur, my hand rubbing the premium leather, which feels smooth beneath the tips of my gloveless fingers, with affection.

The engine's exhaust blares loudly as I do it on purpose, obviously conspicuous enough to draw attention to me. As I await the flag to lower, I steal a quick glance at my opponent. I'm competing against Jaeyun. This is the last competition of the night. Earlier, I'd competed against Riki, Sunoo, and Jay, and I'd prevailed over them.

The sheer tenacity tightens my clutches on the steering wheel while my tongue pokes the inside of my cheek. The thirst to triumph against my ex-boyfriend is strong. My patience starts to run thin.

On cue, as the flag lowers itself, so do we. My hands are operating the functions effortlessly, as though they have minds of their own. I may have underestimated Jaeyun's prowess. We're practically on a tie after having finished the first lap.

I pick up the velocity, and a smirk tugs at my lips as I eventually overtake Jaeyun, but it isn't long before he manages to catch up with me. I bite my lower lip in vexation. Damn it. Why do I feel like tonight might actually be the first time that I'll be crushed?

Heaving breaths in frustration, my clutches become deadly on the steering wheel as I watch Jaeyun overtake me before drifting expertly and leaving me in the dust. Despite the humiliation I feel, I continue to reach the finish line. I slouch my shoulders in defeat.

Though there aren't many spectators on the bleachers, there are other racers aside from the guys who have just witnessed the competition. My cheeks heat up with embarrassment. I was supposed to win, especially when I'm a newbie. Ugh, I must've put on bad impressions now that Jaeyun prevailed over me.

I remain seated in my car while my face is blank as I watch Jaeyun exit his car with a smile—a stupid yet handsome smile that used to flutter my heart. I scoff loudly at the moment Rena comes to the scene, lunging towards Jaeyun for a hug. My heart clenches with the familiar sentiment as I watch him reciprocate the hug, his arm around her waist.

My knuckles turn pale with each second I grip the steering wheel. Why does it have to be Rena?

I become startled when I hear a knock on my window. I look to the side and see Junho. I roll down the window and greet him with a tight smile. "I know, I lost. It's embarrassing."

Junho gives me a smile of assurance. "Actually, you did more than great. No one has ever managed to come close to Jake until you."

A sigh leaves my lips. "But I still lost."

"But the two of you came close to a tie." Junho counters. "Jake is one of the finest racers here, and with the exception of the six of them, other racers have lost against him miserably, but you two complemented each other well. It also looked like you had chemistry with him, except it's with your motorsport cars." He jests.

I find myself chuckling dryly, my gaze returning to the view ahead, where Jake is seen assisting Rena inside his vehicle. "You have no idea."

As the eldest and the official heir, I ought to be a perfectionist. Throughout my upbringing, I was taught and apprised to excel in everything. It didn't matter if I hated it, because what mattered was that I lived up to my parents' expectations of me.

My parents often showered me with love and care, but at times, I could see through their manipulations. Though everyone perceives them as the exemplary couple who met through a business-arranged marriage, they complement each other well, and that includes their manipulations and deceptions.

In the beginning, I was naive and only cared that my parents loved me and often spoiled me with anything I desired. I was foolish to have ignored my younger sister, who yearned for my parents' and my affections. I did feel content that I received more attention from my parents compared to my sister, but I soon realised how badly it affected her when she began giving me cold shoulders and impertinent remarks.

I intend to amend things with her, all because I was greedy and ignorant. When we hit college, her icy demeanour melted towards me as I often conversed with her, even though she tried to ignore me. Eventually, she caved in and accepted me back, though there are still some unspoken feelings.

I look down on my phone and send her a text, informing her that I've arrived. As usual, she only seen my text. While waiting for her in the parking lot, my finger scrolls through my contacts before it stops on a certain name. Stella.

Without thinking twice, I tap on her contact information and decide to send her a text.

HEESEUNG: Will I be seeing you at the party?

I wait patiently, expecting her to reply late, but she surprises me once more. Just like the night when I accidentally caught a glimpse of her face when we raced a few weeks ago.

STELLA: Unfortunately, yes. Though I doubt that I'm entirely welcomed.

HEESEUNG: Nonsense. Anyone is welcome as long as they enjoy beer and skittles.

STELLA: I'll skip the beer, thanks.

The sides of my lips upturn as I smile lightly. I probably look like a fool, but I can't bring myself to care enough. I continue to text her, ignoring how obviously eager I am to continue the conversation with her.

HEESEUNG: Promise me that you'll find me first at the party?

STELLA: What if I want to meet a friend?

HEESEUNG: Wait, you have friends?

I chuckle to myself when she sends an angry face emoji.

STELLA: Idiot. Aren't you my friend as well?

HEESEUNG: I was only joking. Besides, I didn't expect you to have other friends.

STELLA: Are you jealous?

HEESEUNG: What if I say I am?

STELLA: Jealousy doesn't suit you, Heeseung.

HEESEUNG: You haven't even seen me jealous, sweetheart.

STELLA: .......Anyway, I have to go. See you later, if I even manage to find you.

HEESEUNG: Don't worry. I'll be the one to find you first.

The passenger door swings open, prompting me to close my phone. I clear my throat, erasing the smile off my face while my sister is busily wearing her seatbelt.

"I told you not to fetch me too early." She grumbles, her eyebrows furrowing as she looks at me. "What happened?"

My hands grip the steering wheel, turning as I begin to make our way out of the parking lot. "What do you mean?" I ask.

"Well, you look as if you've gotten your first kiss." She points out, amusement lacing her tone. "I mean, I know that you're a player, but I have never seen you look like that."

A frown tugs at my lips before I take a quick glance at her smirking face. "First of all, I was never a player. Those girls just happened to like me and chased after me relentlessly while I clearly had no interest in any of them, or anyone for that matter."

"Did you really?"

"What?"

"I mean, I clearly remember you accidentally telling me that you had a crush on some girl you saw at the library in your first year." She states knowingly. "You should've approached her and given her your number!" She punches my shoulder lightly.

A faint smile appears on my lips as I recall. "I was too much of a coward back then. I did have the intention to introduce myself to her, but when that happened, she had already belonged to someone else."

The nostalgia still stings, and it's even worse when I was the one who noticed her first before the other man managed to win over her heart before I could even pursue her.

"Heeseung, are you okay?" My sister asks me in a soft tone, which I find surprising because she rarely uses that tone with me.

"Of course. Why wouldn't I be?" I reply calmly before turning into the familiar street. "It's just a silly crush."

Besides, I finally have her right where I wanted her.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

The party is hosted at Sunghoon's place, which is a stupendous three-story villa. The exterior is painted in magnificent obsidian, exhibiting a sophisticated veneer. Even as I'm inside my car, the booming sound of music coming from the villa is discernible.

I've known Sunghoon practically since birth, yet even after all these years, I still find it hard to fully grasp the immense wealth that runs through his entire family. As we speak of his family's wealth, his father gifted him this villa for his eighteenth birthday. Yes, this villa belongs solely to Sunghoon.

As I pull up where the other vehicles are arrayed on the massive asphalt driveway with some peeps from college loitering around, I do a quick scan to look for a certain Tesla, but disappointment dawns on me as I realise that she has yet to arrive.

"Let's get drunk and nasty!" The shrill voice that belongs to my sister causes me to wince. She is also patently exhilarated, even though there is no alcohol in her system yet. She even gains some cheers of approval from those who are loitering in the driveway, to which she waves at them with a beaming smile in return, as though she's a celebrity.

"No nasty things!" I call out to her, shaking my head as she skips carefreely towards the entrance but stops when Sunoo comes out. As if they haven't met for ten years, my sister squeals and pulls Sunoo into a hug. Sunoo spots me and waves his hand at me before bringing my sister inside. I swear, those two behave more like siblings than my sister and I do.

I halt my steps on the pavement, just a few metres away from the entrance. I glance behind, as though I'm hoping that her Tesla is coming, but I have a feeling that she's late.

"Heeseung!" Out of nowhere, Ni-Ki approaches me from the side. He greets me with our signature handshake, but my eyes find their way trailing towards two familiar figures. Jay and Jake.

Ni-Ki must've been with them. Before I can look away, Jake catches my gaze while Jay continues to smoke. He raises an eyebrow at me, and there's a challenging glint in his eye, as though he dares me to confront him once more.

In return, my gaze turns colder, holding the eye contact much longer than I intended, and even Jay whips his head to look at me. Finally, I break the eye contact between us before proceeding inside, with Ni-Ki patting my back as though in an attempt to simmer down.

I don't know if I felt indignant back there, but I can confirm that there was disappointment with a hint of sorrow. Fucking hell, Jake Sim. Ever since he started dating Rena, he has changed, especially his behaviour towards me.

At first, I was about to let it go, but it gradually got worse when a physical fight broke out between me and him to the point where the other guys had to hold us back. Then, a few days later, a major feud happened between Jay and Sunghoon. I can't precisely recall, but it has something to do with their parents being business rivals, and it eventually involved the two guys, who were once close enough to regard each other as brothers.

And so, we collectively agree that it's in everyone's best interest to split up, though Sunoo, Jungwon, and Ni-Ki are still on the best terms, for which I'm thankful and, at the same time, I feel saddened. Especially Jungwon.

As if on cue, I spot him hanging out with my sister and Sunoo at one corner, where there is a couch big enough to fit five people. A boyish grin is etched on his face while his attention is on my sister. A familiar ache makes its way towards my heart. I'm glad that he still gets along well with my sister.

Jungwon and I haven't been talking for so long until last night, when I overheard him speaking about his ill mother. I don't even know why Jungwon drifted away from me, but it is highly likely due to the fact that he's closer to Jay. As for Jay, he and Jake were childhood friends, so it's natural for him to choose Jake's side.

"Heeseung! You're finally here!" Sunghoon approaches me. A grin plasters itself on his face while there are two red plastic cups in his hands. "Here." He offers me one of the drinks, which I willingly accept.

As I lean my back against the wall with one hand sliding into my pocket, I begin to take sips of the flavoured vodka that suits my taste. Sunghoon settles himself next to me.

"You're the life of the party, aren't you?" I ask before taking sips again. "So why haven't you entertained the guests like a party host should?"

Sunghoon lets out a snort. "Done that. You're the one who arrived late to witness it."

I glance at him. "I'm surprised you invited Jay and Jake."

"I didn't!" A scowl appears on his face. "I bet Sunoo and Ni-Ki dragged them here. But that's alright. As long as they don't do anything to ruin this party."

"You just want to show off to them that you'll always be the one to throw a great party."

"Guilty." Sunghoon shrugs his shoulders. "By the way, a mutual friend of mine is interested in you." He nudges me, a gesture of suggestiveness. "She's from my department. If you want, I can set you two up."

I chuckle breathily. "Hoon, why bother trying when you know that my answer will always remain the same?"

"I'm just trying to help out my best friend!" Sunghoon punches my shoulder lightly. "You know, despite your bad boy persona, you're a nerd. I mean, you haven't even lost your virginity!"

"I'm saving it for someone special." I bring the red cup to my lips, drinking the last of the vodka.

"Who are you saving it for?" He asks exasperatedly. What a drama queen.

"Just someone." I answer slowly, as my attention is no longer focused on him but instead on someone as she walks through the entrance. My surroundings feel like a blur as my sole focus is on her.

The shade of her hair, as it cascades down her slender shoulder, is a divine lilac, unlike the last night I saw. Well, it makes sense for her to change her hair colour since she can't risk the other guys noticing the similarity between her and the mysterious racer last night. She is adorned in a short black dress that shows off her figure with a crop-top denim jacket that complements well with the whole look.

Holy fuck. She looks exquisite.

Her eyes, which are always enthralling, seem to be searching for something or someone as they scan over the crowd. When her eyes finally meet mine, my heart experiences palpitations. She gazes at me for awhile before breaking into a small smile.

"Hold this for me, thanks." I tell Sunghoon without tearing my gaze off of her.

"What? But your cup is empty!" Sunghoon's confusion is apparent, but I'm too preoccupied, already making my way through the crowd.

As I approach her, a small smile returns to her gorgeous countenance. I don't miss the way her eyes seem to be scanning me.

"You're late." I comment, hiding the fact that I'm delighted to see her. I don't want to seem that desperate.

"And the party is not ending anytime soon, right?" Stella muses, tilting her head slightly to one side as she looks at me. "I didn't expect to meet you this soon."

"Disappointed, sweetheart?" A smirk tugs at my lips. "Who were you expecting to see first?"

"A friend."

"Male or female?"

"Is that jealousy I sense?" She muses with her eyebrows raised.

"Of course. I don't want the friend I made to abandon me." I merely jest, but her smile falters lightly.

"I'm not that type of person, Heeseung." It's fast, but I manage to catch a glimpse of pain in her eyes before it disappears.

I frown. "I was only joking, sweetheart."

"Do you call your friends that, or does it only apply to me?" She asks as we decide to make our way around.

"Only you. So you should feel honoured." She rolls her eyes at my playful response. "Besides, sweetheart suits you."

"Whatever you say, Lee." She halts her steps, leaning forward to grab a red cup and a bottle of vodka. "I guess it's self-service, so." She pours herself a drink.

"Heeseung! Why were you being like that?! Like you've been possessed!" Sunghoon's frantic voice approaches from behind. "Hwang Stella, who the fuck invited you? I know I didn't."

I watch as Stella pauses from drinking before she slowly turns around to meet him. She doesn't appear affected by his glare, simply staring at him blankly. "Park, what a dry party you have here. I expected more."

If looks could kill, Stella would be perished into ashes. Sunghoon scoffs in annoyance. "Or maybe you haven't been to a party as lit as mine. Face it, Hwang. You're simply boring and plain."

"Sunghoon." I can't help but reprove him.

Sunghoon's eyes dart between us, noticing how close we're standing next to each other. "Since when did you two become all friendly?"

"He's my friend now." Stella states curtly, but Sunghoon narrows his eyes at her statement.

"That's right." I voice out, drawing Sunghoon's attention. "Let this go, Hoon. It's a party, and she's your guest."

Sunghoon opens his mouth, probably about to make a retort, but is cut off by Sunoo's voice. "There you guys are. Some of them are already on the second floor. The game is starting soon."

"Oh? Hey, Stella." Ni-Ki greets her, standing alongside Sunoo and Jungwon. Meanwhile, my sister is nowhere to be found. Probably munching off the brownies, as usual.

"Hey, Riki." Stella gives him a small smile, though I notice she seems to avoid Sunoo and Jungwon's gazes. Huh, I wonder how she knew Riki. At this point, I shouldn't be surprised that she may know the other guys.

"Stella, you should join. It'll be interesting." Sunoo invites her, but I notice mischievousness glimmers in his fox-like eye. He must be up to something.

Sunghoon's loud groan catches us off-guard. "If all of you want to be friendly with Hwang here, feel free to do so, but please, not to the extent where the activity involves her!"

"Enough whining, you drama queen." Ni-Ki slings his arm around Sunghoon, pulling him away towards the stairs. Sunoo follows after them, but Jungwon steals a quick glance at Stella and me, an unidentifiable emotion glinting in his eyes before he follows the guys as well.

"You don't have to participate if you don't want to." I tell her assuringly.

However, determination shines in her eyes. "It's okay. If Sunghoon thinks that I'm boring, I'll just have to prove him wrong."

PREV CHAP | NEXT CHAP

[vicsnook]

Hits Different | Bob Floyd x Reader

word count: 1648

warnings / notes: Fluff, emetophobia, and drinking. This is my first “imagine” so please excuse my writing style. Still trying to find my comfort zone.

song pairing: Hits Different - Taylor Swift

Hope you enjoy!

I pictured you with other girls in love

Then threw up on the street

The metallic taste of blood filled your mouth as you bit the side of your cheek. Maverick had just told Phoenix and Bob to eject due to a bird strike. Rooster hurried out of the control room as you and the team watched the jet burst into flames. Old memories surely coming back up to the surface.

The corridor seemed endless as you made your way to the infirmary. Armed with determination to tell Bob how you felt after watching him almost die. This couldn’t wait any longer, 6 months was enough. Wiping the sweat off your forehead you stopped in front of the door. Maybe this could wait.

But then you heard it. Surely your mind was playing tricks on you but still you braved to look through the small window on the infirmary door. You felt you were going to be sick as you ran out of the side door and threw up on the street as the image of Bob and Phoenix kissing replayed in your mind.

“You alright there, Peach?” Hangman’s voice bringing you back to the present. You wanted to say yes so he would go away but no words came out. “Let’s get you out of here” he says, as he leads you to his truck. Any other time you would’ve bickered with him but not now.

“Want to talk about it?”

“I saw Bob and Phoenix kissing in the infirmary.” you murmur, avoiding any eye contact. “I’m sorry sweetheart, I take it you didn’t tell him then”, you nod in response.

As he pulled into the hard deck, confusion filled your face. “Figured you needed a drink” he offered and right then you were for once grateful for Jake.

They say that if it's right, you know, Each bar plays our song

Nothing has ever felt so wrong

Settling down in your usual spot, Penny spots you and slides a beer in front of you. You were grateful that she didn’t pry and could sense you didn't want to talk about it.

You were lost in your thoughts as Hangman flirted with the new bartender Penny hired until Come on Eileen started playing on the jukebox.

“Please dance with me Bobby” you begged after having a little too much to drink. His ears turned a light pink as all eyes were on him. “Come on, it's rude to leave a lady hangin” exclaimed Hangman from the pool table.

Bob nodded and let you lead him to the makeshift dance floor. His eyes never leaving you as you spun around. “See, this is fun!” you whispered in his ear as the song slowed down. “You look beautiful, Peach” he quickly spluttered as he spun you around once again, not giving you a chance to answer.

That night as he turned to leave after walking you to your doorstep, you let the courage from the alcohol take over.You stuttered “Wait! Bobby, wait!” and as he turned around you pulled him in for a kiss.

“I wish you were sober,” he murmured, as he pulled away. Quickly walking away to his car.

But that was 3 months ago and the next day at work Bob avoided you like the plague. Jake assured you that Bob was just taken back and probably thought you didn’t remember as you’d had a lot to drink. The song continued playing as you headed to the bathroom. It couldn’t feel more wrong.

Saying a quick goodbye to Jake, you headed outside. Your house wasn’t that far from the Hard deck so walking wasn’t an issue. “Hope you are okay” read the text that you sent both Bob and Phoenix. Guilt from not checking on them filled you but you couldn’t do it, not now.

As you showered that night, you decided you’d check on them tomorrow since Rooster texted they were being held overnight for observation at the hospital.

_ _

Now the sun burns my heart and the sand hurts my feelings

As you ran that morning on the beach you let yourself cry. Cursing yourself for being so hung up on a man that probably never really knew that you liked him and that you ran away instead of checking on him and your team mate.

The drive to the hospital was short. Still in your workout gear since you couldn’t wait anymore or else you’d end up talking yourself out of it. “I’m here to see Natasha Trace and Robert Floyd” you told the nurse at check in. “They are in room 105” she replied, motioning you towards the automatic doors that opened as she pressed the button. You smiled at her gratefully, heading towards the room.

Knocking on the door you could hardly hear the “come in” over your heart pounding loudly in your chest. “Hey guys, sorry I didn’t make it in sooner.” you whispered as you slid into the chair in the corner. “It's okay, are you feeling okay? Hangman said you got sick after our accident.” Nat said as she looked at you with concern.

“Yes! Don’t worry about me. Are you guys okay!? You were the ones in the accident”

“We’re okay, just a little shaken up.” murmured Bob, his eyes not meeting yours. “It’s not everyday you almost die due to a dumb bird, I’ll say that.” added Nat with a chuckle. All of you nodding in agreement.

Standing up you hugged Natasha and patted Bob on the shoulder, “I should let you guys rest. I’m happy to see you’re both okay.”

“Thank you for checking on us” remarked Nat, Bob nodding in agreement.

“Absolutely, please call me if y’all need anything”

“Will do” responded Bob. Those catastrophic blue eyes watching you leave until you shut the door behind you.

Catastrophic blues

Movin' on was always easy for me to do

That night you opted for going to the Hard Deck since Bob and Nat had been released from the hospital not long after you left and everyone wanted to celebrate. Your light green dress paired with white heels made you feel a little better about your appearance. You looked in the mirror one last time and headed out as your uber had just pulled in.

The bar was packed as it was a Saturday night. A sea of khaki was surrounding the bar so you opted for grabbing a drink later in the night. The dagger squad was already in their usual spot by the pool table. Bob however was not in his usual spot next to Nat and instead she was sitting with Rooster on the piano.

“Peach! Come help me show these suckers how it's done.” yelled Fanboy from the pool table. Reluctantly you headed their way as you noticed he was playing against Bob and Payback. “Alright boys, I’ll show you how it’s done.”

10 minutes later you and Fanboy were enjoying your free drinks that were won from beating Bob and Payback. Rooster had also pitched in with shots. The drinks quickly adding up. Dancing with the handsome stranger who kept looking your way seemed like a good idea. But as he went in for a kiss all you could see was Bob shaking his head at you and your actions.

Dreams of your hair and your stare and sense of belief

In the good in the world, you once believed in me

You excused yourself to the bathroom and splashed your face with water. Surely Bob’s disappointed look was caused by your imagination and drunken state but as you came back to the pool table, he was nowhere to be found.

“Peach, can we talk?” offered Nat, leading you towards the exit. The cool night breeze making you shiver. “Look, I talked to Hangman and I know what you saw. It’s all a misunderstanding.”

“No, no, Nat. Its okay. I should’ve knocked” you shrug, trying to keep yourself from throwing up again as the image replayed in your head. “Peach, I’m serious. It was just the adrenaline. I like Rooster not Bob” her voice was soft as she looked at you waiting on a response. “Oh” you whispered in response as you waited on the uber she called you.

Bob’s car stopped in front of both of you as if on cue. Nat urged you to get in as you complained that she lied about the uber. The silence felt deafening as he drove up to your house and it was enough to make you sober up.

I heard your key turn in the door down the hallway

Is that your key in the door?

“Here, I got it” Bob grabbed your keys and unlocked your door as your shaky hands prevented you from being able to. “Thank you” you whispered as he walked towards your kitchen and poured you a glass of water. “Here, I should probably go” he said as he handed you the glass and headed for the door. “No, please wait” the urgency in your voice stopping him before he reached the door.

“I, I like you Bob. I have since we met and you avoided me after we kissed so I thought you didn’t like me and then I saw you kissing Nat and-” your rambling was cut short as he grabbed your face and kissed you.

“I like you too, I’m sorry I avoided you, I figured you only kissed me because you were drunk. I mean how could you like me? I’m nothing special” he said swallowing hard, staring into your eyes as he waited on your response. “Oh shut it, now come here you idiot” you responded, pulling him in for a kiss while mentally thanking Jake for telling Nat. You smiled at Bob as you both pulled away. Thankful that things worked out this time.

It hits different (it hits different)

It hits different this time

[thepaintedlady00]

hey there! I got my wisdom tooth out this morning was sedated. The hospital said I needed an 'escort' with me to come with me and wait till its over to take me home and care for me. Everything was fine, I was just a bit loopy and funny afterwards :D This made me think - how do you think it would go down if Lena or Jake had to do this and had to be each other's escorts? :D I feel like either of them would end up gushing about how they love the other or something like that hahah

First off, I'm glad your wisdom teeth surgery went well! It's always a tough time having to get one or more removed, but it can be kind of funny after hearing all the stories about how loopy you get. 🤣

Second, I love this idea so I wrote two short little blurbs about how both Lena and Jake would be in this situation. 🤭🤷‍♀️ So, enjoy I guess!

Jake's POV of Lena's wisdom teeth removal:

Jake sat in the uncomfortably stiff waiting room chair, anxiously drumming his fingers against his bouncing leg. His eyes scanned every face that passed by, searching for any hint of bad news. Was it overkill to be this nervous? Maybe. But he'd read every shitty magazine they had on their coffee table and listened to the clinic gossip until that, too, got stale. So, worrying was all he had left to do.

Eventually, one of the nurses came out from the back room and looked at their clipboard. "Harrow?"

He was on his feet faster than either of them expected, earning him a chuckle from the elderly man he'd been waiting next to. "That's me."

"She did great," the nurse said with a reassuring smile. "She should be waking up from the anesthesia any minute now. I was told you wanted to be there when she woke up."

"Yeah," Jake answered, keeping it as simple as possible. They didn't need to know how freaked out Lena would be if she didn't have a familiar face there when she woke up. And they sure as hell didn't need to know what would happen if he wasn't back there.

"Right this way," the nurse replied, leading him to the back room where rows of curtains hung, separating patients, some of whom were still snoring. She pulled back the third curtain just enough for him to slip through.

Lena was lying flat on her back, a long ice packet placed around her jaw. Other than the mild swelling, she looked more than peaceful. Jake sat down in the chair in the corner, carefully reaching out to hold her hand, an act solely meant to ease his own anxiety. The nurse checked her vitals and carefully repositioned the ice pack before she smiled at him. "Let me know if you need anything."

"Thanks." The quiet sound of heartbeat beeping on the monitor and the slow, even breaths that made her chest rise and fall were all he needed.

It didn't take more than a few minutes before he noticed her breathing grow more irregular, and her eyelashes struggled to open. Jake held her hand tighter in his as her eyes slowly opened. Groggy and confused, Lena blinked away the medicated sleep. He saw the spike on the monitor as the fear of her unknown surroundings and her past came flooding in. She lifted a shaking hand, intent on ripping the ice pack and any wires off her when he stood, catching her eye and taking hold of her other hand to stop her. "Hey, it's okay."

She breathed a relieved sigh, blinking away tears. Through the thick gauze in her mouth, he heard her thick mumble of his name, "Jake."

He smiled, moving his hand to brush the hair from her face. "Morning, princess." 

Looking around and gently probing the ice pack with her finger, she seemed to remember where she was and what had happened, relaxing into the mattress. "Howditgo?"

"Good." He chuckled. "They'll be showing up to check on ya in a minute."

Her eyes lingered on his face for a long minute, sparkling as she attempted to smile. "Yerpretty."

Laughing, Jake carefully bent over, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "Obviously. Now shut up before you hurt yourself or something."

It would've been an understatement to say he was relieved when they finally gave him and Lena a long list of aftercare instructions and wheeled her out to the taxi. She leaned against him in the car, physically close enough to feel him finally relax when they pulled up to the side entrance of their apartment. He paid the cabbie before helping her out of the car, not letting her take more than a step before he scooped her into his arms. "Seriously?"

"Shut up," he mumbled, kicking the door open and standing in front of the elevator. "Hit the button for me."

Lena looked cute with her slightly chubby face as she tried to smirk at him. "Can't. Too weak."

He shook his head, turning to elbow the wall until he finally hit the button blindly. "You're kind of a bitch."

She mumbled something else but curled into him for the elevator ride up. Finally, home, Jake helped her settle into bed, having already gathered a basket of water bottles, four extra ice packs, and adopted yogurts and puddings so Lena wouldn't have to get out of bed too often. After taking the gauze out of her mouth, Lena took a nap, one Jake utilized to leave and pick up her pain pills from the pharmacy.

When he returned, he pampered her with a quick but soothing bath where he massaged her scalp and shoulders. After, he entertained her every request. Lena abused this power greatly, forcing him to wear a face mask and letting her paint his nails. Eventually, the torture retired to the bedroom, where the two of them curled up in their bed and watched Phantom of the Opera.

"Stop pretending like you hate it," Lena said, pressing a kiss to his neck.

"I do hate it," he insisted, though, at this point, they both knew it was a lie.

Jake enjoyed musicals. He oddly found himself relating to a lot of them. Lena was nonetheless wiser at first, that is until he randomly got them tickets to Broadway. Still, every once in a while, Jake had to complain just to try and throw her off the trail. It didn't work, obviously. Lena knew him better than that. She knew him better than anyone.

With a content sigh, Lena laid her head across his chest. "Thanks for coming to get me."

Jake only smiled. "You know me, I'm all about that domestic shit."

She twisted, gently tugging his face down so she could press her lips to his. “You are truly a prince among men. But, still, I know how much you hate that shit, so thanks.”

“I only hate that shit 'cause I don’t like seeing you in a hospital gown.”

“Why?” Her eyes gleamed as she teased him. “Not my color?”

He pulled her closer to him, arms wound tightly around her. “We both know you look best in red.”

Nuzzling her face into his cheek, Jake closed his eyes. “Shuddup and watch the movie, jerk.”

“Whatever, loser.”

Lena's POV of Jake's wisdom teeth removal:

I sat in the waiting room, casually flipping through the pages of one of the magazines the clinic kept on their coffee table. It’d only been about twenty minutes since I’d gotten the call that they’d be finishing up Jake’s surgery soon, so I was more than content to wait. Most would assume I’d be nervous, freaking out over the what-ifs and the complications possible, and while those thoughts did come and go every now and then, I knew Jake would be just fine. He was in perfect health. Besides, he was tough and unbelievably stubborn. It’d take a lot more than some anesthesia to take him out. The old woman sitting beside me leaned over with a gentle smile. “Who are you waiting for?”

“My boyfriend,” I answered. “Wisdom teeth.”

She nodded. “My husband has had his for years. Insists that they’ve never bothered him before, but now his dentures don’t fit right with them in.”

I chuckled at her. “That sounds like quite the pain.”

“He is,” she joked. “Took me a week to convince him to get them taken out. And he grumbled about it all the way til they knocked him out.”

The nurse came from the back room with a smile and a quick glance at her clipboard. “Harrow?”

Saying a quick farewell to the old woman, I stood, carefully putting my magazine back down before I approached her. “That’s me.”

“Everything went great! He’s awake now if you wanna wait with him while the doctor gets his paperwork together.”

“Yes, please,” I answered, following her into the back room, where she led me past a few curtained sections before stopping and gesturing to the right one.

“Let us know if he needs anything.”

“Thank you.” I slid through the curtain and smiled at Jake, who was lounging on the cot, idly poking his cheek. “Well, hello there, handsome.”

His head turned, eyes still slightly droopy from the drugs. His jaw and cheeks looked swollen as he smiled at me. “Leeeennnaaaa!”

I giggled as he reached out and tugged me closer. “How are you feeling?”

“I’mgoood,” he slurred, the ice pack sliding off his face as he moved to admire my ass. “Lookityourass!”

Fixing the ice pack, I rolled my eyes. “I probably should have expected that.” His hand cupped one of my asscheeks as I swatted him away. “Jake!”

“Whaaatt?” He asked, laughing. “You’rejustsohot.”

“You’re lucky you’re still high right now.”

It turned out that drugged-up Jake was even more touchy than regular Jake. It was kind of cute, not that I’d ever tell him that. As one nurse was going over his aftercare instructions, another was helping him into his wheelchair when he loudly proclaimed, “THATSMYGIRLFRIEND!”

Both girls laughed, “They know, sweetie.”

“ISN’TSHESOHOT?!”

The room was filled with suppressed giggling as every nurse and doctor in the vicinity was subjected to Jake’s loving praises, which didn’t stop when we rolled him through the waiting room. The older woman from before waved at us with a kind, “He’s a real keeper!”

The whole drive, Jake lounged on my lap while complimenting every feature of my face with a gentle, slightly off point of his finger. Once we got back in the apartment, he collapsed on the couch and fell asleep. Quinn dropped off his pain medication before he woke up and quickly fled the premise to join Ari for dinner. After the medication wore off a bit and he woke up, he ate some yogurt, and then we took a quick, cool shower where I helped wash his hair and gently wash his face.

Once the two of us settled into bed, his head resting in my lap with my fingers gently combing through his inky hair, Jake looked up at me. “Don’t laugh, but can we watch Moulin Rouge?”

I bit the inside of my cheek to keep the laugh in and nodded. “Of course, we can, sweetie.”

As the movie played and Jake shifted to lay in front of me, head on my chest, he mumbled, “I’m not saying I like this-”

“Shut up.” I kissed the top of his head and carefully set two ice packs against his cheeks. “I love you, loser.”

His fingers threaded through mine, settling our hands over his heart. “I love you too, jerk.”

[love2write2626]

Paint My Horizon 9

SURPRISE BONUS CHAPTER TONIGHT!

Chapter 9

Y/N’s P.O.V

It’s been a whole week since I last saw or spoke to Jake. He stopped coming to the bar, and I hadn’t received any texts or calls from him… I am getting extremely lonely. I missed our talks. In the little time we’ve been together, I got use to sleeping next to Jake and I haven’t been able to sleep as well since.

“Hey, Y/N?” I looked up from the bar where I am standing and saw Phoenix standing in front of me.

“Hey, Phoenix… can I get you something?”

“No, I only came by to talk to you about Hangman”

“What about him?” I asked

“Is he ok?” she asked

“Why wouldn’t he be?” I asked confused

“I mean, he hasn’t been acting himself this week. He looks like he hasn’t slept in days, he doesn’t speak, he let Rooster just shit talk him… and he took it. Didn’t say anything back, he got grounded by Cyclone today… he hasn’t been flying like himself, he hasn’t been is normal arrogant cocky self… he is flying he doesn’t care what happens to him… he had to eject today because he didn’t do a proper pre-flight check, and his engine blew” I gasped

“Is he ok?” I said

“Yeah, he’s fine. He already got released from the hospital and they sent him home to get some sleep”

“Fuck” I mumbled

“I’m assuming something happened between the two of you?” she asked

“Long story short, we got into an argument and he couldn’t stand I was giving him the silent treatment… so he decided to make me jealous by talking to some other girl… and well towards the end of the night he went to the back of the bar to well… I’m assuming have sex with her” she scrunched her eyebrows together

“I’ve known Hangman for many years, I’ve never seen him act like he does with you. He loves you! Hangman is many things, but he is not a cheater… that much I know”

“I mean I didn’t want to believe it… but I saw them walk back there after she whispered In his ear and he smirked and agreed, and I ran off because I was too hurt”

“Did he see you leave?” she asked

“Yeah, he ran after me. Asked me what was wrong?”

“Look we don’t know each other very well, but if he ran after you… I don’t think he was planning on cheating on you”

“I don’t know! I Just… I love him too, and just seeing that hurt so fucking much… and with his reputation I guess I was just assuming”

“So you haven’t talked to him since?” I shook my head “Maybe you should go talk to him?” she added

“Yeah, I will… thanks for telling me” I said

“As much of an asshole as he is… I do hate seeing him like this”

“Thanks for looking out for him” I said with a smile

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

After talking to Penny, I left and went straight to his place. His motorcycle is in the driveway, and I can see all the lights in his place are on.

I knocked on the door a couple times, and got no answer. So I grabbed the key under the mat and let myself in. I walked around the house, and was shocked to see how messy he was. The first time I came over the place was spotless, and he apologized for the mess… I didn’t even imagine his place could ever look like this.

I walked into his room, and I saw him in bed, he was wearing joggers and was shirtless, with the pillow covering his face. I walked closer, and gently sat on the side of the bed, and hesitantly moved the pillow from his eyes.

“Jake?” I asked, his eyes popped open, and he quickly sat up

“Y/N?” he asked

“Hi” I mumbled “I heard what happened today” I said he groaned

“Did Phoenix tell you?” he asked

“Yeah, she’s worried about you”

“Well she doesn’t need to be I’m fine… so you can go… I don’t want to burden you with my problems”

“No, No Jake your problems are not a burden” I gently reached forward and ran my fingers through his hair and he sighed and leaned forward resting his head on my chest. After about a minute he leaned his head up and started laying kisses on my neck

“I’ve missed you so much baby” he started running his hands under my shirt

“Jake, Stop!” I said pushing him away “I didn’t come here for that, I came here to talk to you… but if all you want is sex… call that girl from the bar” I started to walk away but he ran after me and grabbed my hand “Let go Jake”

“Do you honestly think I would cheat on you? Do you honestly think that low of me?” I could see the hurt in his eyes

“I know your reputation… and you sure were happy with that giggly blonde as you were walking to the back of the bar”

“Fuck, Y/N. I paid her $100 to make you Jealous… when we went to the back of the bar she asked me to walk her to the bathroom, she said she get’s nervous to go to the bathroom by herself! I would, and could never cheat on you” I suddenly felt like a complete bitch

“What?” I asked

“Yeah, and if you had just talked to me… instead of breaking up with me you would have known that.” He said angrily

“Well… we didn’t technically break up” I said, and he scoffed

“Oh, now you wanna make jokes? I have been physically hurting… I haven’t slept a wink since that night, I got grounded because I was so focused on us that I couldn’t focus on what was going on in the air… I mean fuck, you have clouded my mind blocking all my clear judgement” I looked at the ground

“I’m sorry I just… I was angry at you… and then I saw you and the girl… I just assumed”

“I don’t even know why you were angry at me” he said

“Because you opened your big mouth and told the entire class about my dad to rile Rooster up”

“Baby, I wasn’t trying to hurt you” he said

“It wasn’t me who was hurt, I was angry because brining up the past also hurts Uncle Mav… and he was really hurt too” I sighed “You know I’m very protective of my Uncle” I said

“Fuck, baby… I didn’t even think about that. If you had just talked to me, I would have seen your side… and already apologized to him” he said sitting down on the couch. I sat down next to him, and reached for his hand but he quickly snatched it away “Do you really think that low of me?” he whispered. Fuck I really hurt him

“No, I just… you know how insecure I am… and I know about your past… and I assumed and I’m so sorry” I said crying

“No, baby please don’t cry”

“I just feel like such a bitch I…”

“No, you’re not… we both made some mistakes… and I don’t know… I guess we have to get better at communication” he chuckled. We stared at each other, and then he slowly brought his lips to mine. It was a slow steamy kiss, he slid his tongue into my mouth and I couldn’t help but moan out. When we broke apart he looked at me with a bright smile “You know… I’ve heard that makeup sex is the best sex” he said

“Oh, yeah? Why don’t we get things started” I said, I got down on my knees in front of him and unbuttoned his joggers “No boxers?” I asked with a smirk

“Wait, baby you’ve never done this before… you really don’t have to” he said

“I want to try… will you let me try?” I asked

“Of course baby” I smiled. I leaned forward and kissed the tip, I looked up at him and without breaking eye contact I gave a slow long lick, he moaned out and threw his head back. I hesitantly slid him into my mouth, and circled my tongue around him. I felt his hand go to my head, and he started gently running his fingers through my hair. “That’s such a good girl” he mumbled, I let out a little whimper and I heard him chuckle “You like being called my good girl? You wanna be a good girl for me?” I released him from my mouth so I could speak

“Yes, sir” I said, he smirked brightly

“Alright, be a good girl and finish me” I nodded, and got back to work. I only gagged once, and of course he got worried and told me I could stop, but instead of responding I just continued. “Baby stop” he said “Baby, I’m going to cum…” I just kept sucking “Baby I’m” with that he came, I tried to swallow but it was too much, and I ended up spitting it out

“I’m sorry… I probably ruined it” I mumbled

“Ruined it? You didn’t ruin anything, baby that was incredible”

“Really?” he nodded

“Now… why don’t I take you to bed, and make love to you?” he whispered

“Actually… I want to try something… can I… can I ride you? He got a bright happy smirk on his face

“Fuck, yes” he stood up, unembarrassed that he was nude and still hard, and pulled me to his bedroom. He undressed me slowly and then whispered, “Will you wear something for me?” I nodded, he reached into his nightstand and pulled out my necklace with his ring on it. I felt tears in my eyes “Now, none of that baby girl” he said, he gently put it on me kissing my neck lightly “C’mon gorgeous” he said

He walked me over to the bed, and he laid down, he pulled me down with him, and kissed me. The kiss lasted a while, it was slow, sweet, full of love, forgiveness, and silent apologies. “Jake…”

“Nervous?” he asked, and I nodded “You have no reason to be… I promise it will feel so good” he pushed some of my hair back “Do you believe me?”

“Yes, sir”

“Such, a good girl” he mumbled. He helped me sit up, and adjusted me so I am straddling him. “Ok, baby… you ready?” I nodded. He lifted me up, and gently started to push me down on his hard dick, and I squeezed my eyes shut. “Fuck, baby. It’s been too long, you’re so tight” he mumbled when he was fully in me I let out a whimper, and his head snapped up “You ok?” he asked

“Yeah, I just. It’s a lot” I mumbled

“Take a deep breath” I did as he said “and let it out”  I felt his thumbs start rubbing circles on my hips

“Ok, I’m ready for you to move” I mumbled, he smirked. I expected him to start moving, but I jumped in surprise when his hand moved and he started playing with my clit

“Feel good baby?”

“Yes… sir” I said letting out a moan. He started pushing in and out of me, and it was an amazing feeling. “Fuck” I cried “Jake” I mumbled I am getting incredibly close “Jake stop” he looked at me confused, but did stop

“You ok?” he asked

“Yeah… I wanna take control” I said and before he had a chance to respond, I lifted myself up, and pushed back down. He let out a loud breathy moan. His head was pushed back into the pillow, and I could tell he was on cloud nine

“Baby, I’m so close… cum with me?” he asked, he started playing with my clit again, and I started going faster

“Fuck, Jake I….”

“That’s, it be a good girl and cum for me” with that I let go

“I love you” I moaned as I came, he followed a couple seconds later. He helped me get off of him, and laid me next to him. We stared at each other for a couple of minutes “I’m so sorry, I hurt you. I love you so much”

“It’s all forgiven… next time you’re angry just tell me why… and we can talk through it… I love you more than you can ever imagine and never want to go that long without again” I smiled and snuggled into his chest

“Sleep” I mumbled

“Good night my love” he said before we both let sleep take us

@luckyladycreator2 @ahopelessromanticwritersworld @blue-aconite @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy @peaches-1999 @callsign-blue @dempy @roostersforevergirl

[ranger-ribbons]

FLOWERS Daphne, Xeranthemum, and zinnia FOR Noah/Jake? These ones gave me Noah/Jake vibes 🥰

A beautiful bouquet!

~

Daphne - I Wouldn't Want You Any Other Way

Jake sighs as he opens the door to the computer room. "Dude," he starts to say, but stops short when he sees the computer room is empty. He blinks, confused. "Noah," he says, looking around as if the Blue Ranger was just hiding from him. "Noah?"

Noah, of course, doesn't answer. Well, if he's not here, Jake knows where he is. The Black Ranger turns and heads out the door to the school, heedless of the bells ringing behind him to draw him back to class. Fuck the truancy charges, his parents will understand. Noah is always more important.

Jake finds Noah exactly where he thought he would. Noah's on the roof, on a hall pass from Mr. Burley. This has happened since the pair of them were kids, but it's only been expedited since the death of poor JJ. "Noah," Jake says, dropping his backpack carelessly next to the Blue Rangers messenger bag. It's not pressure to go back in. Noah wouldn't be out here if he could get through his classes right now. It's Jake's job to be there for Noah as his partner. So, Jake will be there.

Noah looks up from where his head in tucked into his arms, arms crossed over his knees, knees pressed to his chest. "Jake," he greets, quickly wiping away his tears. "Hey, dude, what's up?"

Jake smiles wordlessly. He comes over and sits next to Noah, shoulder to shoulder and hip to hip. "You're not okay, babe," he says.

Noah smiles back and shakes his head. "No," he agrees. "I'm not."

"What happened?"

Noah sniffles. "It's his birthday," he murmurs. "He'd be seventeen today."

Jake nods, he knows that. He's been sad all day himself. "It's okay," he says. "Well, okay to be upset about it."

Noah nods. He leans over and puts his head on Jake's shoulder. "I'm sorry I'm a mess," he whispers.

Jake gives a little scoff with another smile, looking out on the city. "I wouldn't have you any other way," he replies.

~

Xeranthemum - Eternity and Immortality

"Jake?" Noah asks, looking up at Jake, who's practicing various kicks on the soccer field. "You know how the Morphin Grid gives us a kind of immortality?"

"Yeah?" Jake asks, kicking the ball into the air and then into the goal. "What about it?"

Noah watches Jake's ball hit the goal and he smiles as Jake's celebrates the victory. Then he frowns again, and asks, "Do you think we'll still want to be together if we live a hundred years from now?"

Jake hums. "I think so. There's a lot to discover about you, Noah, and I can't imagine ever growing bored."

Noah smiles. "Yeah?"

Nodding, Jake confirms, "Yeah."

"Okay," Noah replies with a broad grin.

~

~

Zinnia - Lasting Affection

Over the years, it's always been this: Jake and Noah against whatever life throws at them. Jake twists his knees and looses his job as a professional soccer player, Noah sticks by his side. Noah ends up in the hospital after a lab explosion, Jake breaks nine different traffic laws to get to him. Over the years, as Noah and Jake grow up, get married, have a daughter, and discover their own immortality via the Morphin' Grid, it's always been this: they are each other's biggest cheerleaders.

"Jake," Noah murmurs as they lay in bed late one night. It's just them at home, Kenzie is out at Gia and Emma's for a sleepover with the Moran's kid, Nyx.

"Mm?"

"Do you regret becoming a Ranger?" Because it's 2047 and neither of them look a day over twenty despite them both being born in the late 90s. Their integration into the Morphin' Grid had afforded them a form of immortality and sometimes, Noah wishes that they'd known about it before.

"No," Jake replies. "Do you?" It's the same answer he gives every time.

Noah hums, turning so he's pressed nose-to-chest with Jake. "No," he replies.

Jake hums back, kissing the top of Noah's head. "Good. I love you," he murmurs.

Noah smiles despite himself. "I love you."

This is how it goes: it's always been Jake and Noah taking on whatever the world throws at them. This is how it goes: they help each other through it too.

@estel-eruantien

[my-shields-are-down]

So what do you think of the article that came out (TVline)? I'm not sure what to think?

I take the TV Line articles with a grain of salt. They saw the first two episodes and then promoted a whole slew of things that happened in a completely different timeline than they said they would. I only really rely on TVline when they announce what shows got cancelled or renewed.

The Rookie is a dramedy -the drama part of that is way more heavily weighted and tied to the crime being fought than in the relationships of the characters. Definitely happened this season - Rosalind, Elijah, Jake & Sava, Hajek and Vegas, the Collar bomber, etc. and while yes there’s been quite a bit of angst for Chenford to work through (Chris almost dying, Ashley dumping Tim after his surgery, them finally getting their heads out of their asses and realizing they are in love with each other), there hasnt been anything insurmountable. I believe Isobel and whatever “case” she brings them will follow that pattern as well.

I think Isobel coming back could be a good thing for Tim and Lucy. Isobel indirectly had a tremendous impact on the formation of Tim & Lucy’s relationship from the beginning of the show. She’s part of the foundation of their relationship. Lucy helped Tim heal and move on. Him seeing Isobel happy and we assume thriving and vice versa should permanently silence any lingering doubts either of them have about “did they do the right thing?” Whatever that “thing” is.

I hope that Isobel speaks with Lucy about UC and speaks to Tim about loving Lucy whether she does UC or not.

Based on the episode titles, I am assuming Lucy does a longer term UC assignment NEXT episode and we finally get resolution as to whether or not she follows that path. I think something goes wrong and she ends up choosing something else. At least, I hope she chooses a different career path - she has so many options other than becoming a detective. But that’s me.

Part of me would love to see BOTH Lucy and Isobel get into a situation where they need Tim (and Metro) to get out of it. So that if there’s even a smidge of lingering feelings on either Tim’s or Isobel’s side, they are quashed permanently because Tim will always save Lucy first.

Lastly, I think the next episode will have a more direct impact on Chenford than the Isobel episode. I’m a sucker for a season long story arc with parallels. Think back to Episodes 1, 2 and 3.

Episode 1 - Tim and Lucy being drawn to each other but in denial about what they want and feel, another kiss, almost fucking and Chris being the ultimate cock blocker.

Episode 2 - Tim pushing Lucy to go to UC school, she thinking he doesn’t want her, both of them breaking their own hearts by not saying what they want

Episode 3 - Lucy is back from UC school and her relationship with Tim is in tatters. They longing look at each other across the room, Rosalind is still a threat, and Lucy is on Rosalind’s trail.

I expect the last 3 episodes to be similar but opposite. They are in a strong, committed loving relationship. They aren’t going to break up, but this will be a test. I have no proof of the following - this is 100% my guess/wish.

Episode 20 - Isobel comes back and kind of forces her way into their relationship causing both of them to reconsider this whole UC career path and what it means for them individually and together. (we are here!)

Episode 21 - Lucy goes undercover for a longer assignment. Both of them struggle with the separation. Something goes wrong and Lucy’s cover is blown. She gets hurt, Tim panicky and rushes in to save her.

Episode 22 - Elijah and Oscar (with a little lingering help from Rosalind, you know Oscar would’ve figured out how to help er in some way) break out of jail and go after Very pregnant Angela. Lucy and Aaron get pinned down in a shootout and Aaron gets shot protecting Lucy. Lucy and Aaron get rushed to the hospital. Lucy is ok. She and Tim openly declare their love for one another, and we are left hanging for Season 6 when someone (not Tim and not Lucy) and their heart monitor flatlines. Dun dun dun…. Is it Aaron? Angela? Elijah?

Oh and Bailey bails on Nolan at some point.

Isobel is here for a single episode - so I expect her to have the biggest impact on Tim, but I also expect Chenford to have a profound impact on her.

[we-are-all-of-legend-now]

Fictober Day 7: Do You Recognize This?

Prompt number: Prompt #7

Fandom: American Dragon Jake Long

Pairings/Characters: Jake/Rose; Jonathan; Trixie; Spud

Rating: T

Warnings: memory loss; abandonment; pregnancy mentions

You can read under the cut or click here to read it on fanfiction

Rose held her breath, waiting. Beside her, she knew Jonathan was doing the same thing. The doctors had all said that it wasn’t going to be that easy; a blow to the head like the one Jake had suffered in his accident could prevent his memory from ever coming back completely. Since Jake had woken in the hospital with his amnesia, a lot had come back to him. Gramps had been the first thing that Jake had truly remembered. After that, it had been Trixie and Spud. The memories of the rest of his family were shakier but they still came through. The memory of Susan’s cancer and the reliving the end of it was the worst one to come back. Rose had sat in the hospital room, watching Jake and Jonathan embrace and wishing that she could go and comfort him too, having it kill her that she couldn’t.

                Because the only thing Jake didn’t remember was her.

                Rose and Jonathan had agreed that Jake should come home to the house that he’d shared with Rose for the past ten years. And Rose had been hoping, against every warning that the doctors had given, that Jake would just walk through the front door and know he was home. Jake’s face had been sour in the car and there had been no recognition of their home as they pulled in the driveway. Instead, she and Jonathan followed Jake went from room to room, taking his time to inspect random objects, such as the snowflake printed blanket over the back of the couch in the living room.

                Every inch of Rose wanted to go to him, put her hands over his, and ask if he remembered curling under that blanket, a bucket of popcorn between them, as they watched old movies and got so wrapped up in kissing each other that they didn’t realize the popcorn had spilt and the end credits had roll until long after it had happened.

                Rose didn’t do that.

                Rose just watched him put the blanket down, noting that there was no warmth in Jake’s eyes. It was all as if he were touring someone else’s life. The last stop was their bedroom. Rose had made up the bed just this morning, in Jake’s favourite gold sheets. Jake poked around, going straight to his side of the bed and his nightstand. The flare of hope Rose had at that quickly faded when Jake turned to look at their wedding portrait.

                Jake was still wearing his wedding ring. The doctors had said it was an important reminder of his normal life. It didn’t mean a thing to Jake. Jake had never said it but Rose knew it. Rose had often caught him playing with it in the hospital while watching her left hand. Every time she had wanted to shout that they were matching gold and they’d bought them in Greece the day after he’d proposed because they were so excited at the thought of being Mr. and Mrs. that they almost got married right then and there. She hadn’t said any of that and Jake had never asked her, unlike all the questions that Spud and Trixie fielded. Jake just wasn’t very curious about Rose at all. Rose tried not to let that hurt but how could it not? He was her husband; from the moment they had met, he had been the love of her life. Never had she doubted it until he turned his cold eyes to her, as if she were nothing. Trixie petted and said that it wasn’t Rose’s fault and that she was doing all she could but Rose doubted that too. If she was doing all she could, why hadn’t he come back to her yet?

                Jake turned toward Rose and Jonathan, done with staring at the wedding portrait. “What happens now?”

                “Well, son, I’m gonna head home,” Jonathan said tentatively.

                Roe found it very hard not to burst into tears from the way Jake was looking at her. How could they have been together for fifteen years, lived together for ten, and been married for seven, and there was so much nothing in his eyes? He could remember every Christmas, their high school graduation, and the details of moving Gramps into the old folks’ home; he just remembered it all without her existence.

                “Trixie and Spud are coming over,” Rose said. Jake flinched at the sound of her voice and she pretended not to see it. “They usually come over on Thursdays or we meet up. They’re bringing your favourite.”

                “Mario’s.”

                Jake couldn’t remember buying this house but he could remember the little eatery that had opened the year prior. Grief and rage rolled through Rose, quickly twisting into nausea.

                “Right. Well, they’ll be here in about an hour.”

                Even though it pained her, Rose left Jake to his own devices for that hour. When Jonathan left, Rose made sure she laid out the table and went about her chores quietly so that she could keep track of him. Jake spent most of the time in the bedroom, rifling through what Rose hoped was only his own drawers. She longed to go to him, wrap her arms around his waist, lean up on her tip toes to kiss the back of his neck and tell him, well, everything. Just like she always had. Just like she might never get to again.

                It was such a relief when Spud and Trixie arrived, breathing much needed life into the house. Jake even looked happy for the first time that day, which Rose savoured. They sat down to dinner, which Spud and Trixie kicked off with their usual litany of work stories and complaints. Jake even laughed. It was a sound that the house had been missing for so long and Rose wished she’d known it was coming so that she could record it and play it over and over again.

                It was when they’d moved into the living room that Spud popped the illusion.

                “So, Jake, what’s it like being home?”

                Jake went blank again. “It’s Rose’s house.”

                “You’re everywhere here, Jakey,” Trixie said, putting into words the things that Rose couldn’t. “You can’t believe you never lived here.”

                “I didn’t say that,” Jake said, a note of scorn in his voice. “It’s just not a place I remember. It doesn’t feel like a home. It’s like I’ve never been here before.”

                “It’s been ten years,” Rose whispered but no one heard her.

                Jake was on a roll now, finally with people that he remembered as being trusted confidants. “Like, I see all this stuff and I know it’s all true but it doesn’t feel like the person in all the pictures is me. It’s not me. None of this is me. How can this be the biggest piece of my life when I have no memory of it? Could it really have mattered if I don’t remember?”

                “We have loved each other for fifteen years!” Rose screamed and then she fled from the room before she cried in front of him.

                Rose hid in their bedroom, hiding her face in the pillow, crying unashamedly. She didn’t know that person in the other room. He had her husband’s face and her husband’s voice but he looked right through her. Rose had struggled to be calm and understanding in front of him and Jake just acted like she was furniture.

                There was a knock at the door. “Rose, hon, can I come in?”

                Trixie.

                Not that Rose wasn’t grateful for her friend but, God, would she ever stop hoping that it was Jake instead, back to his old self? At least if it wasn’t his old self, some form of self with empathy.

                “Come in,” Rose said. Maybe it wasn’t ever going to be Jake again. Then what did she do? Rose had never wanted to think about life without Jake – the very idea had torn her heart from her chest. Now, she was stuck with reality.

                Trixie nudged the door open, leaving it half ajar. In her hands were two very full red wine glasses. Trixie put one in Rose’s hands and Rose quickly turned to place it on her bedside table.

                “Come on,” Trixie said, “you deserve something to take the edge of. Nothing you’ve been going through is easy.”

                “It’s not that. It’s … I mean, no, it hasn’t been easy.” Rose picked at the pillow on her lap. “He doesn’t love me anymore, Trixie. Worse than that, he doesn’t feel anything for me. I wish he hated me. I wish there was something but it’s like I don’t exist.”

                “Girl, I know, and I know it’s the worst thing for you. For everyone. I mean, you’re Jake and Rose.”

                “Were.” The tears dripped thickly from Rose’s eyes and she didn’t make any move to wipe them away. “We were.”

                “And you will be again, as hard as it is right now,” Trixie said, but Rose thought that she might be lying. Or, at least, not as confident about it as she wanted to be. “Come on, have a drink with me.”

                “I can’t.”

                “You don’t need to have that clear of a head to deal with Jake. I’ve seen you two drink a bottle of tequila between you before.”

                “He’s not that Jake anymore,” Rose said, and then she took a deep breath. It had been six weeks and she hadn’t said this aloud. This wasn’t how she wanted it to be but the dreams she was dreaming while Jake was being ushered away in an ambulance unbeknownst to her were never going to come true. And, Trixie was her friend too. Trixie would be there for her. Trixie had been there for her. Rose opened her mouth and blurted, “And I can’t because I’m pregnant.”

                Trixie nearly dropped her wine glass. “What? How far along?”

                “Six weeks. I found out the day of Jake’s accident because I was just getting some stupid routine blood work and it’s one of the things they screen for.” Rose sobbed. How many times had she sat in the best, her hands on her stomach, thinking that it was everything that they had ever wanted and nothing that they should have been going through right now? There wasn’t even a we.

                “Oh, Rose. You didn’t say anything?”

“I was planning on telling him we were pregnant and now I’m so terrified for when I’m going to show because what is he going to do? What am I going to do? He barely believes I’m his wife, is he really going to accept this baby? Is it fair to put that on the table? I don’t know. But, I’m pregnant and we’ve been talking about this for so long and I can’t let go of our baby. I can’t. So now I’m here, having Jake’s baby, and Jake doesn’t even know my damn name.” Rose tried to talk herself through how to breathe again. All of the discombobulated thoughts that had been lying in bed with her for the last few weeks were just tossing themselves out of her mouth. “This is going to be it, Trixie. I don’t want to say it but I know it. If he’s not better soon, it’s going to be the baby or him. How do I make that choice?”

                “Rose, you should have told me.” Trixie put her hand on Rose’s knee. “You shouldn’t have been alone with all of this.”

                “I didn’t know how.”

                Trixie put her wine glass down on Jake’s nightstand and then scooted along the bed to pull Rose into her arms. “I’ve got you. No matter what happens, you’ve got Auntie Trixie and Uncle Spud, okay?”

                Rose couldn’t stop crying enough to breathe, let alone respond.

(-.-)

                “You should go after her,” Spud said.

                Jake didn’t really want to but he didn’t really want to sit in the living room and feel Spud judge him, either. Because Spud would judge him. Because Rose was his wife. Allegedly. Apparently. Jake slowly walked from the living room to the master bedroom, drinking in all the sights again and all of the pictures along the walls. It didn’t seem possible that everything else had fallen into place within two weeks of his accident and he was still struggling with his wife – who he had apparently known for half of his entire life – four weeks afterward. Jake wasn’t trying to hurt her feelings or anything but he didn’t know how to talk to her or about her. Jake didn’t even know how to start thinking about her as a person. That was weird. He couldn’t be such a monster that he didn’t think of her as a person but here he was. He was dying every time that she looked at him with expectation because Jake knew he was going to fail. It wasn’t fair to either of them but Jake couldn’t say that to anyone who knew the both of them. They were ‘Jake and Rose’. Allegedly. Apparently. It meant something to everyone else.

Jake approached the open door, hearing Trixie’s voice. Did he knock? Was it weird? At this point, Trixie knew Rose way better than Jake ever expected to. Maybe he should just leave Trixie alone to comfort Rose. Jake turned and then stopped when he heard his own name.

“He’s not that Jake anymore. And I can’t because I’m pregnant.��

Jake froze. No one had told him about a baby.

                “What? How far along?” Trixie asked.

                No one had apparently told Trixie about a baby either.

                “Six weeks. I found out the day of Jake’s accident because I was just getting some stupid routine blood work and it’s one of the things they screen for. I was planning on telling him we were pregnant and now I’m so terrified for when I’m going to show because what is he going to do? What am I going to do? He barely believes I’m his wife, is he really going to accept this baby? Is it fair to put that on the table? I don’t know. But, I’m pregnant and we’ve been talking about this for so long and I can’t let go of our baby. I can’t. So now I’m here, having Jake’s baby, and Jake doesn’t even know my damn name.”

                Jake crept away from the doorway, no wanting to get caught. He knew it wasn’t a conversation that he was ever supposed to hear and he had to figure out how to respond. Easier said than done when he didn’t understand his own head anymore. He went back into the living room and gestured with his head.

                “Can we go for a walk?”

                “Sure, man, just around the block, all right? I don’t want Rose to get upset.”

                “She’s not my keeper,” Jake grumbled.

                “Well, no,” Spud said as they left the house and went out into the wintery air, “but she’s your wife. And you’ve always been sensitive about making sure she knows where you are and that you’re safe.”

                Jake shoved his hands in his pockets, keeping his head down as they walked. He didn’t know what to say to Spud; he wasn’t even sure he wanted to talk to Spud. He just wanted to be on the move because standing still wasn’t getting him anywhere. And, now, Rose was pregnant. Or, apparently, Rose had been pregnant this whole time. Jake had heard the sadness in her voice when she had said it. He could hear how much she loved him. Maybe he had been a brick wall to her and maybe that was unfair but he couldn’t fake the fact that nothing he had learnt about her or them as a couple had made him feel a single thing. He had laughed over memories of Trixie and Spud and cried over memories of his mother in a hospital room and he didn’t even have a single thought about Rose. They were supposed to be this great love but if it was a great love, it should conquer all, shouldn’t it?

                And if it didn’t, what were they supposed to do?

                Jake thought he knew. He just wasn’t sure how to say it especially since it was his first night out of the hospital and at Rose’s house but he didn’t see the point in dragging any of it out.

                They arrived back at Rose’s front door.

                Well.

                Here went nothing.

                “Spud, can you get Trixie out? I want to talk to Rose alone.”

                “Sure, man.”

                Jake waited in the living room, sitting in one of the very comfortable armchairs, looking at a framed photo of he and Rose at the Grand Canyon. They were already wearing wedding rings. Jake took it all in with a clinical eye because none of it meant anything to him. Do you recognize this? Do you recognize that? It had been the never-ending question since he had opened his eyes in the hospital and when it came to Rose his answer was always the same: no. None of it. None of it at all.

                “See ya, Jakey.”

                “Bye, Jake!”

                “Bye, guys. I’ll text you tomorrow!”

                The front door slammed shut.

                Jake didn’t have to wait for long until Rose reappeared. She had washed her face but Jake could still see how red her eyes were. His eyes dropped to her midsection. She didn’t look like she was any thicker than in the recent photos around the house but Jake didn’t know that much about pregnant women and he knew even less about this woman who was supposed to be his wife.

                Rose sat down in the chair across from him, regarding him warily but with a spark of hope in her blue eyes. “Spud said you wanted to talk.”

                “You’re pregnant.”

                Rose clapped a hand over her mouth. “Oh, damn it. Damn it. You are not supposed to – I was going to tell you. I didn’t know how. I guess I was hoping that if you came home, if you spent some time at home, things would be different and that I could try to tell you. I’m not that far along. I don’t even think I’m supposed to be telling people yet.”

                “Rose, I’m not the father.”

                Jake didn’t have to know her that well to see the hurt that flashed across her face.

                “You are. You’re my husband.” Then came the rage.

                “I’m not your husband either,” Jake said, shaking his head. “Not the way that I should be. I look at you and I feel nothing. I’ve known you for a month and I don’t even feel like we’re friends. Or like I even want to be friends with you. Even with all the amnesia stuff and the head injury, don’t you think that I should feel something? Don’t you think there should be something between us?”

                “You remembered everything else,” Rose said desperately. “Maybe there’s a block or there’s –”

                “It doesn’t matter. I knew from the first time I walked into this house. I’m sorry because I know this is going to hurt you but I need to pull off the Band-Aid right now. I can’t give this anymore time because it’s only going to hurt you more. I don’t remember you. I don’t love you. I don’t like you. I’m not your husband and I’m not your child’s father.” Jake pulled the wedding ring off his finger. “I’m going home to my father’s. I know we’ll need to talk more and everything but with everything else that’s going on, I’m calling it. Best of luck, with your life, okay?”

                Rose was rocking herself and sobbing so hard that Jake thought she was going to fall over. Jake placed his wedding ring on the coffee table in front of her but Rose didn’t even look up, her long blonde hair falling around her shoulders.

                “Goodnight, Rose,” Jake said.

                And then he left her.

(-.-)

                Rose crawled out of the living room.

                She didn’t have the strength to stand or think but she knew that she couldn’t stay in that room where Jake had said goodbye forever. Her Jake had left her. They were supposed to be together. They were always supposed to be together. Hadn’t they promised it again and again, only for it to turn into nothing?

                Rose hauled herself into the bathroom, throwing up. She wasn’t sure if it was grief or baby but she was dizzy by the time that she stopped, flushing it all away. Rose stared at the toilet, wishing that it was that easy for real life. At least her real life. It was all gone for Jake and he was free and easy to run off and do whatever he wanted to and she had to stay here in the ruins of what could have been the greatest love story ever told.

                Rose picked herself up off the floor. She was tough; she had always had to be tough. And even though she wanted to lay down and give up, she knew that she couldn’t. She had baby to think of. Just her and baby.

                Rose made it to their bedroom, looking at the full wine glass on her nightstand. It would be so nice on a night like tonight to just lose herself inside of a bottle and deal with the hangover and the pain and the tears and the fear in the morning but she was locked here, in this moment, where there was no Jake, no hope of Jake, no semblance of the other half of her whole being.

                Rose let out a shriek of rage. Despite her misgivings with the universe, it was the first one since Jonathan had called her to tell her there had been an accident, back when she had been floating on cloud nine about baby’s existence and thinking about how to tell Jake. She let out another shriek of rage and then she let out a full howl. Despite everything that the last few weeks had given her, this was the first time that Rose felt herself give up hope. There was nothing left. There was nothing at all.

                Rose seized the wine glass in her hand and threw it at the wall, watching it shatter against the pale green paint, the red wine splattering across their wedding portrait, turning the best day of her life into one of blood and sadness. Then, Rose slid down to the floor, her back against the bed, and stared at the wine drip. She put her hands on her stomach.

                “It’s just you and me now, baby,” she said.

                The way it was never supposed to be.

[qvid-pro-qvo]

first moments as family

pairing: bradley bradshaw x jake seresin x natasha trace, pete mitchell x tom kazansky

word count: 2703

rating: teen, cw: for mentions of hospital scenes and brief discussions/descriptions of post-giving birth.

the quiet moments after the storm, and how the family becomes a family, around Nicky, for Nicky, and because of Nicky.

link to ao3.

-

The hospital room is quiet except for Natasha’s own heartbeat. She’s still connected to the machines, but this is different from the physicals, from the ejections, from the missions. 

Much, much different. 

Her hand instinctively rests over her belly, over the swell still there, even hours later. Smiles gently at the weight under her hand, before her gaze drifts to the bassinet in the corner. 

Where their son sleeps. 

Even through her exhaustion, the need for sleep, and sleep, and more sleep, she can’t help her need to see him. See him herself, without the hustle and bustle of the doctors and everyone else. 

With a careful, shaky breath, she lets her legs dangle over the side of the bed. One, two, three, lift, and she moves, slowly, to the one light source that remains on, sneaking past Bradley and Jake and their long and low snores as they rest on each other. 

“And they didn’t even give birth,” she mutters to herself with a smile, shaking her head. But she doesn’t hesitate to press a kiss to her fingertips and brush it along their knees, right where they knock together as they lean on each other. 

The monitor's cords are just long enough, with enough give she can make it all the way to the bassinet. She can’t help her smile as she gazes down at her son. 

Her son . 

Their son.

He doesn’t stir much as her fingertip brushes over his brow, as it trails down his nose. When she makes it to his lips, she could swear he has a smile, the tiniest hint of one. Had one when he was born, too, when she held him to her chest, as she sobbed out her relief. 

Always smiling.

She spends a few more moments with him, but lets him snooze like his fathers. Chuckles as his hands, in the little onesie Maverick bought for the special occasion, move up to his face before settling back down at his sides and he snoozes again. 

It’s odd, now, seeing him so apart from her. After ten months of feeling him grow inside of her, she can’t help the… empty feeling that seems to threaten the edges of her vision. But seeing him now, outside of herself, after bringing him safe and sound into the world… 

Pride. Love and pride. 

While she knows the monitors need to stay on as much as they can, her bladder tells her it’s time to get up and move. Like the nurses showed her, she disconnects herself from the monitors, but doesn’t move back to the bed to press the call button. She can handle this on her own. Start gaining some kind of independence back.

The bathroom trips are intricate now. Dab, not wipe, cooling pads, the spritz bottle. It’s a complicated sequence, and she winces at the stinging. The gown does provide easy access, at least, but every sensation is a new one. 

A lot of things are new now. Something she’ll have to get used to. 

When she emerges again, her bladder is relieved, and the cooling pad feels so good she almost trembles with it. However, she’s met with two stern looks from her partners on the window seat in the room, and a nurse in the doorway who gives a sheepish smile. 

“I’m sorry,” she tells Natasha, glancing toward Jake and Bradley. “I didn’t mean to wake them, but when you disconnected from your monitors, I just wanted to peek in –” 

“It’s fine,” Natasha says, sighing a little bit. So much for independence. “ I’m fine. I was using the bathroom.” 

“You’re not supposed to be standing on your own,” Bradley chides her, lightly, as he stands and squeezes Jake’s shoulder. “You could’ve woken us, we would’ve helped –” 

“I made it just fine,” Natasha says, reaching for his hand as he offers it to her. And then she smiles, looking between the both of them. “You were resting. I wasn’t gonna prevent you from getting sleep considering we probably won’t get a lot of it for a while.” 

“We’re a team, Nat,” Jake says from his spot, looking up from his phone to smile at her, leaning forward so he can reach and touch her hip. “We’ll handle the lack of sleep when we get to it. For now, we can take care of you.” And when his eyes move to his son, she sees his whole visage soften. “The both of you.” 

“We also got a call to the desk,” the nurse tells them, as Natasha reaches down to touch Jake’s hand. “From someone called Kazansky, wondering if they can come up. I put them on hold for now.” 

“I’m texting Ice right now,” Jake tells them. “Him and Mav are finally here, and they’re bringing some food, too.” 

Mav. Suddenly Natasha’s heart quickens, and she smiles at the boys with a broad grin. “ Perfect . He can come up, they’re both on our approved visitor’s list,” Natasha says to the nurse, turning to her, before looking back. 

“What’s that look?” Bradley says, taking the moment to help her back to bed as the nurse nods and heads back to the nurses’ station. Careful with her gown, careful as she sits, careful and cautious and kissing her head as she leans back. “What’s perfect?” 

“It’s Mav,” Natasha says, looking at Jake and Bradley with a bright smile. “Mav and Ice. They haven’t met him yet.” 

Suddenly Jake’s face lights up, too, and he stands with a sudden burst of energy. “Fuck, you’re right .”  Moves to the bassinet, makes sure the nameplate the nurses made for them is written perfectly. “I’ve gotta get a video of this.” 

But Bradley’s brow stays furrowed, as he looks from Natasha to Jake and back again. Part exhaustion, part misunderstanding. “What do you mean? They know he’s here.” 

“Bradley,” Natasha sighs, before squeezing his hand still in hers. “ Bradley . They know he’s here, sure, but they don’t know his name .” 

–

Waiting for Pete and Tom feels like an eternity. Bradley takes to pacing in the small room, legs brushing Jake’s every time he passes the couch where Jake sits again. Jake’s eyes are focused on his phone, sending directions to the two men as they get lost and more lost and lost again in the hospital. But Natasha, Natasha’s eyes stay on her son, her smile bright and big as she lets her fingers trace his features. As she dares waking him so she can hold him in his arms. 

“You’re gonna love Pete,” she tells him, rocking him slowly, adjusting the little hat on his head. “And he’s going to love you. He’s been talking about you for ages. Talks Ice’s ear off about you, and you weren’t even here yet.” 

“You nervous, Bradshaw?” Jake asks, grinning up at him as he passes by him again.”Your pacing is giving me hives, honey.” 

“I’m fine,” Bradley retorts, dodging Jake’s fingers as he attempts to pinch his side. “I’m fine .” 

“You’re nervous,” Jake says again, setting down his phone for a moment to stand and take both of Bradley’s hands. “And that’s okay. But Mav’s gonna love it. Of that I have no doubt.” 

“But is it right?” Bradley says, and his voice cracks a little bit as he looks at Jake, jaw working. “Is it… is it what we should do?” 

Natasha slowly walks over with their son in her arms, bringing him close to Bradley. Lets him catch their little one’s gaze before reaching up with one arm and carefully rubbing his back. 

“It’s up to you, Bradley. It always has been. When we talked about it, I know you were hesitant, and that’s fine,” Natasha murmurs. Watches as one of his hands leaves Jake’s to reach for one of their son’s hands. So small, barely big enough to hold a finger of his father’s. “He’s our son. And we all have to agree, of course. But. I think your dad would be proud. And I think Mav will be, too.” 

Bradley sighs a little. Still shaky. But as their son starts to stir from a long slumber, grips at Bradley’s finger tight, he finally smiles, big and bright. 

“He does look like a Nicholas,” he tells them. Glances back at Jake and gestures to him forward. “Don’t you think?” 

“Nicky,” Jake replies, wrapping his arms around Bradley’s waist. Chin on his shoulder. “Nicky boy.” 

Nicky. Nicky sounds better in Nat’s head, too, as she looks at his tiny face. He doesn’t fit Nicholas yet, but she has no doubt he will. Will grow up strong, and brave, just like his namesakes. 

“Nicholas Peter,” Bradley says firmly. Leaning forward to kiss the boy’s head, chuckling as he squirms in his mother’s arms. And then his eyes meet Natasha’s, and she nods. “Nicholas Peter… Seresin.”

Suddenly Jake stills. His whole body, usually always in motion, becomes a statue. Natasha’s gaze flickers to her face. He’s halfway to reaching Nicky when he stops, mouth falling open a little bit as he stares at their son between her and Bradley. 

“Jake,” Natasha whispers. “Jake… you all right?” 

He swallows. She tries to read the emotions on his face, but it’s carefully schooled into a mask, shut down. 

“... you sure about that?” he murmurs. Finally able to meet their eyes. “That name. It’s not – it hasn’t got a good… legacy behind it.” 

“It’s your name,” Bradley tells him, and his back straightens with it. Firm, certain, sure. “It’s your name, and now it’s his name. Nat and I talked about it, and. If he can’t have ‘em all, he’s having yours.” 

Slowly, the mask falls. Steadily, Jake’s eyes fill with tears until they stream down his cheeks.

And of course, that’s when Mav and Ice make their appearance. 

They’re polite about it. A gentle knock on the door, one that makes Jake startle and wipe at his eyes while Bradley and Nat turn to face them. “Come in,” Natasha calls out, smoothing the front of her gown, making sure it’s tied in the back as Bradley takes Nicky in his arms. “We’re decent, I promise.” 

At first they can’t see either face, balloons filling the doorway, the smell of takeout permeating before either man. But then Pete manages to push through with his hands full of a gift or ten, Ice following behind him with a long-suffering gaze toward his husband.. 

“You’ll never guess who made the first wrong turn,” Pete tells them, glancing back toward Ice. 

Ice’s eyes narrow. His hands move to set the balloons down by the door, before moving upright and using his hands to sign to Pete. 

“Give you all one guess ,” Pete translates. His lip curls down. “Hey!” 

Natasha, Jake, and Bradley all look at each other. “One guess,” Natasha laughs.

“Maverick,” they say at the same time. 

There’s a brief pause. “Okay, it was me. I admit it. But enough of that.” Pete sighs finally, glancing back toward the three of them, just as Jake pulls together enough to stand beside them, hand on Natasha’s back. “Now where’s the kiddo?” 

The moment they both see Nicky in Bradley’s arms… Natasha hopes Jake remembers his phone. But even if he forgets, Natasha thinks she’ll never forget their eyes. Gentle looks, Ice’s mouth opening in a little ‘o’, Pete’s shining look toward the new baby. The way their whole bodies seem to slump a little, overwhelmed as Pete drops the presents and takes a step forward. Everything else seems forgotten. All that’s left is their son. 

“Oh, Bradley,” Pete whispers. Ice’s hands lift to rest on his husband’s shoulders as he takes another step toward them. “Oh, fuck – oh, goddammit, I shouldn’t – god, can I hold him?” 

“Of course, Mav,” Bradley whispers, and Pete steps away from Ice to go wash his hands, doesn’t miss the sniffle as he does. 

Natasha’s eyes meet Ice’s as the two of them step away, Jake standing behind her in a mirror of the admiral before. “ How are you doing?” he signs, slower than he does with Pete as they’re all still picking it up, pointing to Natasha. “Get some sleep?”

“Some,” Natasha tells him, grinning as he watches Bradley talk Mav through holding him, Mav’s protests at remembering how he held baby Bradley just fine not missed. “But good. It’s… different, and new, but we’re doing good. I’m doing good.” 

“She was a rockstar,” Jake tells him, hugging her gently. “But we’re keeping an eye on her. Making sure she doesn’t push herself too hard.” 

“People in this family tend to push themselves too hard. Be sure to rest,” Ice agrees. But he reaches out for her hand, squeezes one in both of hers. “I’m proud of you, kid.”

Her eyes fill with tears at the praise, nodding at him as she leans back into Jake. “You got it, Admiral. Plenty of rest.” 

“Oh, wow .” 

Mav’s awed voice gets her attention. Gets them all looking over, as Maverick holds a newly swaddled Nicky, who looks perfectly content in his arms. 

“Look at him, Tom,” Pete whispers, moving over to him. “Doesn’t he look like his mom?” 

Ice’s nod is slow, seemingly just as awestruck as Mav as he moves closer. His hand reaches for Nicky’s fingers just as Bradley’s did, and Natasha’s throat closes up at the sight of them, so gentle and loving. 

“What’s his name?” Maverick asks, voice still so small. 

And when Natasha says it, she says it with pride. Confident. Certain. 

“Nicholas Peter Seresin.” 

It takes a few moments for it to fully sink it. For everything to click. But when it does, it’s clear. Maverick’s whole demeanor changes, and Bradley moves quick to stand beside him, to reach for Nicky just in case. 

“Oh, Bradley,” Pete whispers. When he looks up again, the tears are free-flowing. “Nicholas… for your dad?” 

“Yeah, Mav,” Bradley murmurs back. “And Peter for…” 

The second hits just as hard as the first. Pete’s eyes widen, big and bright, and Bradley takes Nicky this time, holds him and rocks him as Pete starts to tremble. “Me?” he asks, disbelief. “Why do you think – after me?” He moves closer to Ice, looks up at him before staring at the three of them. “What do you mean? Me ?”

“You. Jake and I agree,” Natasha speaks up. Wiping at her own tears, feeling the hormones and the emotions all collide within her. She moves to sit, Jake with her as she does, rubbing her back. “For Bradley’s dad, sure, but… but also for the bravest man we know. For a man we want our boy to know, and who we want to know him.” 

Maverick just keeps shaking his head. He looks like he needs to sit, but stands anyway, leans against Ice as he watches the three of them. Bradley goes to put Nicky into the bassinet, and when he comes back he squeezes Maverick’s shoulder. 

“You and Ice, Mav,” he tells them, looking between them. “We want him to know you both. As… role models. As leaders.” 

“As grandfathers,” Jake finishes. When Mav and Ice look over, Jake holds Natasha close. “All of us want you both here. As a part of this family. Because… God knows you’ve been there for us, and we want you there for him.” 

Slowly the five of them look around. Meet every gaze, look at every member of the family. Jake holds Natasha, who reaches for Bradley’s hand, who squeezes Mav’s shoulder, who leans against Ice. 

Who finally gives a brilliant smile. 

He lifts a front-facing fist. Bends it at the wrist. Repeatedly. And though Mav doesn’t need to translate, he does, as he nods along, fiercely. Answers for himself, for Ice. 

“Yes. Yes, yes, of course, god, of course.” 

And then he glances back toward Nicky. Laughs as he watches the little hint of that smile. 

“Do we think we’ve got another pilot on our hands?” he asks, raising a brow. “I think we could teach him a thing or two.” 

“Pete,” Ice rumbles out, low, warning. 

Natasha laughs, breathing it in. This moment, with their family. “No matter what he does,” Natasha tells them all, “he’ll have all of us behind him.”

[duskwoodgirl4life]

Chapter 9

After a long flight MC and Jake arrived in DC that afternoon, they got a taxi to their hotel. The room was lovely. There was a 4 poster bed, with fabric hanging down from each corner of the bed. The bathroom was just over to the side of where the bed is, inside the bathroom was a lovely big shower that had a fitted shower head on the wall. There was a bath just off to the side of the shower that was big enough for two. In the bedroom there was a big TV on the wall next to that was a desk with a mirror. Over the other side of the room was a balcony door that overlooked the park. Kids could be heard playing their games.

"This place is amazing Jake, how did we get so lucky?" MC turned to face Jake who was walking over to her. "The FBI said to book a room and they will pick up the tab" MC wrapped her arms around Jake's neck and kissed him softly. "We have the rest of the day to ourselves why don't I take you out to dinner" Jake leaned down and rubbed his nose against MC's placing kisses along her neck and collarbone.

After they finished their intense activities Jake and MC went to shower, Jake had been ready for half an hour but he didn't care he would wait a lifetime for her. "Okay, I'm ready" MC stepped out of the bathroom Jake lifted his head from his phone and he almost dropped it on the floor. "Wow MC you look absolutely stunning" MC stepped out of the bathroom her dress was a long flowing blue dress with a split that ran up her right thigh.

Jake took MC by the hand and they headed out to dinner. Jake had booked a cozy little restaurant with candles on the table and romantic music playing in the background. They got shown to their seats and handed menus. The waiter left them for a few minutes while they looked over the menu. "this place is amazing, you continue to surprise me" Jake took MCs hand and gave it a light squeeze. "Only the very best for my girl" the waiter came back over and took their order Jake ordered a bottle of wine that would go with the food perfectly.

After dinner they took a walk through the park. Everything looked so different at night, all the lights shining brightly, the noise of the cars going by. "Tonight has been wonderful Jake" MC had a smile formed across her face as she leaned into Jake taking in his scent. They walked back to their hotel arms wrapped around each other so in love. As they were crossing the street a car came out of nowhere and an arm out the window and fired a gun, the bullet hitting Jake in the chest. He fell to the floor, blood pouring out of his chest MC screaming for help. Someone from the hotel came out and saw Jake on the floor MC by his side screaming and crying. "Someone please help, someone please" the staff member dialed 911 right away.

MC's POV

My whole world has come crashing down around me, blood all over my hands, tears rolling down my face, the whole world feels like it's stopped and everything is going in slow motion. Everything is a blur. I can hear people around me. The paramedics arrived and scooped Jake up into a stretcher. One of them puts their arm around me guiding me into the ambulance. I don't remember arriving at the hospital. Everything is still a blur, every part of my body feels numb. One of the nurses sat with me making sure I'm okay. All I can do is cry on her shoulder.

Letting out screams every few minutes I barely hear what she's saying but the words I do pick up on are "Jake's in surgery and he's in good hands" I still don't know how much time as passed I wake up on the sofa my whole body feels like a massive weight that I can't shake off. I get snapped out of my own thoughts as one of the doctor's comes into the room. "Hi, MC my name is Dr Adam shepherd I was one of the surgeons that operated on Jake" I bolted up right waiting for him to carry on with his words. "The surgery went well. We were able to take the bullet out; it had just missed his heart. He is in recovery now if you would like to go and see him"

I sprung up from my seat and waited for the doctor to show me the way to Jake's room. We walked down a long corridor finally reaching Jake's room. "The next 24hrs are going to be critical only then will we know if he's going to make it" I fell to the floor, tears running down my face. How could I face a life without Jake in it. What will I do? I can't live without him. The doctor helped me get up and guided me into the room, taking a chair and placing it next to Jake's bed. Jake had wires and tubes all over him. I take his hand in mine, holding onto it not letting go.

"Jake, I'm right here baby I'm right by your side I love you so much I know you can pull through. You're a fighter my knight in shining armor" I lift Jake's hand up to my face and place a soft kiss on his hand. I hear a knock at the door and look up at two men in suits. I know who they are and why they are here. "I know why you are here, the only words I want to hear are you have caught the son of a bitch who shot Jake" anger clearly lacing my voice I am in no mood for stupid questions yet I know they are going to ask the stupid pointless questions. They know as well as I do who ordered these men to shoot Jake; they know who to go after. They should be out there arresting them not standing here in this hospital, in this room.

"I am sorry for what's happened MC, I want you to know we are doing everything we can" I looked up at the agent. Did he really just say that to me? Did those words really come out of his mouth? "I don't want your I'm sorry speech, get the hell out of this room and go find who did this" the two agents stand there shocked at my outburst but they knew I was right. They both knew this was a pointless conversation. They should be out there doing their jobs. "We need to ask you a few questions, can you tell me your movements leading up to Jake getting shot" I look up at the agent that's just asked me a question I think for a moment before responding to the question. "We went out for dinner at a restaurant called l'amour vrai (true love) then we took a walk through the park. Next thing I know a car comes speeding down the road and someone is shooting at us and a bullet hits Jake"

I don't even bother to look if the agent got any of that down. I just turn my attention back to the love of my life. He's the one that needs me now. After a few more questions the agents leave me and Jake alone for the first time. I can't keep my eyes off his chest. A long cut on his chest from the operation more tears escaped my eyes. Sleep is not my friend. Every time I close my eyes I see Jake getting shot all over again. My body gave out and I found myself opening my eyes, light spilling in through the window. I still have Jake's hand in mine. I've not let go of it since I sat down next to him.

"Hi MC, I've come to check on Jake and see how he's doing" I nod my head and let the doctor do what he needs to. I can see him writing things down and checking monitors. His face gives away nothing. He looks up at me putting his pen back in his top pocket "he's made it through the night, he's getting there but it's going to be a slow journey he's still not out of the woods yet" I lift Jake's hand up resting it on my head. "You can do this baby, you can't leave me please stay with me don't leave me" I didn't notice the doctor moving closer to me putting his hand on my shoulder. "I'll get one of the nurses to bring you something to eat and drink" before I can protest when the doctor leaves the door I look back at Jake. He looks so peaceful laying there with his eyes closed I would do anything to have him open his eyes again.

Days turn into weeks, weeks turn into months and Jake still hasn't opened his eyes, the doctor said it's just a matter of time before he does. The FBI have finally caught who shot Jake and they have been arrested they have also arrested James Franklin and everyone connected to him. I haven't left the hospital. I haven't left Jake's side. The only time I've left is to shower and use the bathroom. One of the nurses has been so kind to me. Her name is Izzy she's made sure I've had something to eat and drink. She even went out of her way to get me some fresh clothes and offered to take my dirty clothes and wash them.

On my way back from the bathroom I stopped by the gift shop and bought some magazines, flowers and all the stuffed bears they had and placed them around Jake's room. I bought Izzy some flowers to say thank you for everything she has done for me. When I got back to Jake's room there was a cup of coffee waiting for me. For the first time in months a little smile laced my face. I sat down next to Jake holding his hand and talking to him.

"Hi baby, I'm back. I went to the gift shop on my way back from the bathroom and bought all the stuffed bears they had. I've bought you some new pyjamas I know you will love them they have little computers on them I love you so much Jake I want you to know that I will be here when you wake"

Jake's dream POV

I stopped by MCs favorite coffee shop on my way to her apartment. I'm helping her pack her stuff up as we are moving in together. This will be the last time we have to be apart. When she stepped into my life she made me see the world for the very first time. I reach her apartment with a smile on my face. I can't wait to get her in my arms. I knock softly on her door and I am greeted by the most beautiful women in the whole world. "Good morning my beautiful angel, I've brought coffee" MCs smile warms my heart so much everything about her is pure perfection.

"Hey handsome, I've missed you so much you're so freaking cute" MCs words make me smile she really is the most precious woman in my life. It didn't take long to pack the last few bits. When I finished packing the last box I felt MCs hands wrap around my waist. "The movers have arrived, they are taking down the bigger things first" I spin round and kiss MC on her head taking her in for a cuddle. "I've just finished with the last box everything is good to go in the kitchen"

We arrive at the new house, everything is getting unpacked, it's already starting to feel like home. MC is busy making sure the movers don't break anything the way she orders them about makes me laugh. She definitely has way more stuff than me but I don't mind she's the only one I want. After several hours of unpacking things are starting to come together.

I'm surprising MC today with a trip to DC. The FBI wants me to go down there and help them with an investigation. I told them I would go but only if MC could come with me they of course said yes. I walk into the kitchen and see MC making some coffee "hey baby, I've got a surprise for you" MC turns round to face me with a smile on her face. "Hi baby, you know I love surprises especially when they come from you" I walk over to her and place a kiss on her lips. I can feel her melt into the kiss, her arms wrapping around my neck. I pull away slightly to look into her eyes. "If that was the surprise can we keep doing it" I love seeing that devilish front light up her face.

"That wasn't it but we can get back to that in a moment, I've got to go to DC in a couple days the FBI needs my help. I told them I would only go if I could take you with me. We leave in the next couple days" MCs face lights up at what I've just told her she wraps her arms back around my neck and kisses me deep it's filled with so much passion and lust.

We arrived in DC. It's been a long flight but having MC in my arms the whole flight made it so much better. While MC is in the shower I arrange for a cozy table at one of the most romantic restaurants in DC. It's a french restaurant that serves the best food. I know MC is going to love it there. I wait for her to come out of the bathroom while looking at my phone I hear her voice coming from the doorway of the bathroom. "I'm ready, what do you think of the dress?" I get up from my seat and walk over to her. "You look absolutely stunning, so sexy" I run my hands all over her body just the thought of where that slit in her dress leads to gets me excited.

We made it out of the hotel room and arrived at the restaurant. We had the most amazing night, amazing food and wine but most of all I got to spend it with the love of my life. We decided to take a walk through the park near the hotel as it's a warm night. Our arms wrapped around each other as we walked along until we reached the exit of the park and waited to cross the road. As we crossed the road a car came speeding down the road. I hear gunshots coming from the car. My heart sinks. I pull MC out of the way. I don't want her getting hurt. I feel my legs give way to me. I can feel something warm on my chest. I see MC next to me crying her eyes out.

I have been shot, her hands are covered in my blood, I try to fight and keep my eyes open but I can't because my body wants to let me go as much as I try to fight it everything starts to go black.

[mykinkyyandere]

Limo

AO3

Pairings: Yandere/Dark! Jake Lockley X f!Reader

Summary: Your father has an accident and you visit him every day. But one day a stranger tells you to come with him.

Warnings: Yandere, dark, obsessive, possessive, stalking, kidnapping, selling, forced touches/kiss, violence, blood, mentions of killing, death, dying

You always visited your poor father in the hospital. He wasn't a good father and he didn't treat you well. You didn't know what his job was, but you could tell from the various weapons and strange items in the house that it was illegal. Dangerous men came to your house now and then. Everyday you hoped it would all end. And one day you learned that your father was too damaged to do his job anymore. They left a note in Spanish on him. "Today is your turn to lose." You were afraid that one day they would come after you, too.

But as time passed, you felt safe. Although you didn't love him, you visited him as much as possible. That day was one of them. After signing, you walked towards your father's usual room. Each time you tried to find out what he was doing, what was his job? But he didn't speak. Who did this to you? Why?

You were about to knock on his door, knowing you wouldn't get an answer, but someone grabbed your shoulders and dragged you in another direction. "This way." You moved your shoulders to pull his hands off you, but he held you tight and whispered in your ear. "Don't you wanna know what happened to your father?"

His English was accented, it reminded you of someone. More precisely, something. That note. Tears filled your eyes as you struggled in panic. "No, please..."

He tucked you into a storage closet and pressed you against the wall. Covering your mouth, he leaned over to you and whispered. "Calm down. Why do I want to hurt a beautiful lady like you?" He laughed a little and caressed your hair. Then he tilted his head and pointed his finger at you. "Now you'll be a good baby and come with me. You'll regret it if you make it difficult." He smiled and nodded his head to confirm that you understood.

You had no choice. You let him took you and lead you towards the exit. What kind of business was your father involved in? You didn't know what this man's intentions were. You looked around desperately, maybe someone would notice you. But there was hardly anyone around. The receptionist was absent. When you turned left, you looked in that direction and groaned in fear when you saw the man covered in blood lying on the ground. He grabbed your head and made you look ahead. "Don't be too loud, pretty lady. People will think I kidnapped you or something."

You blinked to erase the image from your mind, but no matter how hard you tried, it didn't go away. So he could just walk into a hospital and kill people?

He was so rough, he almost dragged you to outside. You looked at him in amazement as you made your way towards the big white limo, which you didn't understand why it was there. Was this man very rich or was it stolen?  He opened the door and pushed you inside. You looked at the red seats as you waited for the limo to move. You were alone but you felt like you weren't. The dense air suffocated you.

A few seconds later he started the limo and he was quiet the whole way as he took you to a place you didn't know where. You called out to him, asked questions, but he didn't answer. He said something in Spanish and closed the cover in between, leaving you alone with the red seats.

You had to protect yourself, so instead of freezing with fear, you tried to think. What could you do? That's right, your bag! You picked it up and, trying not to make a sound, searched for something you could use. A box cutter and a deodorant. These could work. You hid the knife in your sleeve and kept deodorant in your other hand. You took a shaky breath and thought about your steps. Spray and stab. You even slowly practiced it. And after that, you could have sworn you heard a deep laugh. It came right in front of you. You screamed and looked at the empty seats. What was this? It was a game he had set up to scare the people he had kidnapped, wasn't it?

While you were trying to figure out, the limo slowed and your attention was diverted outside. You looked out the window in horror as he pulled over. You were afraid that he would kill you. You were afraid of dying. You didn't want to die.

"I don't wanna die." You whispered.

You went to the farthest corner of the seat and tried to stay away from him as he opened the door. You thought he was going to get you out, but he went in and sat in the opposite seat. He put his leather-gloved hands under his chin and smiled. "Nobody wants to die. Look at me, I didn't want to die so I'm here with..." He laughed and looked next to him for a short moment. You looked at him confused. There was nothing there.

He leaned forward and offered his hand. "So, give them to me, my lady." He was smiling, but his patience seemed to run out at any moment.

"What?" Your voice trembled. He must have been talking about something else.

"Your knife and the other one. Unless you don't want me to smell like you." He wiggled his fingers.

"I don't understand." You refused. There was probably a camera inside. You didn't want to give him your only source of reassurance no matter what. When he straightened up and came over you, you panicked and tried to stab him, but he stopped you way too easily and took your weapons from you. When he sat his seat back, he looked at you. "You missed the steps." He imitated your practice, even did your lip syncs. 'Spray and stab.'

You were so afraid. You had no idea what this man wanted to do with you and how did he know everything, but you wanted to run away with all your being. You tried to open the door quickly, you knew it wasn't locked. But something was preventing it from opening.

"Let's talk about your father."

He grabbed your arm and pulled you next to him. He wasn't laughing anymore and his tone was stern. You looked at him with your red eyes and whimpered. "What do you want from me?"

He put his fingers on your lips and shushed you. He pulled to himself and caressed your hair. "I want you to know the truth."

"Why?" You put your hands on his chest and pushed him but he didn't move. He tightened his grip even more and pulled you onto his lap. You freezed when you felt him pressing you against himself. He burried his head in your neck and took a deep breath.

"Your father was a coward criminal. He begged me not to kill him. So I asked him what he could offer me. I didn't expect him to change my mind."

You didn't know what all this had to do with you. This guy was just having fun with you. He could kill you after he did anything he wanted to you and you couldn't stop him. When you lost your hope, what he said shocked you.

"Your father is honorless enough to offer his own daughter as penance." When you tried to free yourself in disbelief, he patted your head. "I know, how could he, right? Well, he did it because his life was everything to him. Not you."

"What do you want from me?" You yelled and sobbed. You knew your father didn't love you. He was a bad person and didn't treat anyone well. Most of the time you were afraid that he would beat you, but he didn't touch you. You couldn't believe you were so worthless to him. You couldn't believe he just sacrificed you.

Breathing was difficult because of you sobbings. To calm you down, he pulled you away and held your face. "Hey, hey... don't cry. Your father didn't deserve you anyway. I'll take good care of you." He smiled but then titled his head and put a sorry face on his face.  "And... I'll kill your father if you try to escape."

So he would have killed your father. Oh, even if he didn't, you wanted to kill him with your own hands. But your damn conscience wouldn't allow it. You didn't want to be a murderer and let your father die. This scary man seemed to know that too.

"Please..." you pleaded but he pressed his lip to yours. Then he pulled back and caressed your cheek.

"Don't cry. You're mine now."

He put you on his seat and got out of the car. Before closing the door, he put his hand on his head and turned back as if he had forgotten something. "Oh and by the way, my name is Jake. Jake Lockley. And soon you'll meet my closest friend." He looked next to you and smiled. After he closed the door, you looked there but saw nothing. Was he sick? Like, psychological?

When the limo moved, you cried all the way and grieved for your father's betrayal. What kind of father could sell his daughter?

As time passed, you felt the air around you changed. It was more intense, more weird. More so than when you first got in the limo. You could feel something very close to you. It was a crazy feeling, it was so scary. Frightened, you slid into the opposite seat and sat with your legs pulled to you. You heard that deep voice chuckle slightly, but you buried your head in your knees and closed your eyes. No, it wasn't real.

[treasureswordsgirl55]

Weakness

Character: Steven Grant / Jake Lockley / Marc Spector

Pairing: Steven Grant x Reader x Marc Spector x Reader x Jake Lockley (Established Relationship)

Mentions: DID

Inspired by: Mi Princesa - David Bisbal

Warnings ⚠️: Nop. Fluff. So fluff. Moon Boys like Dads. Established Relationship. Parents things. Insecurities. Memories. Flashbacks. Post!MoonKnight.

Tags: @wintergirlsoilder2 @abluelavalamp @mochacake2016 @dreamingaboutyousworld

Author's Note: Hello Hello!

This is the second part por the fic "The Hippo Talk" and just let me say something, I love so so much write about the Moon Boys like Dads.

So... I'll write more 😍

I hope you like this and thanks for all the replies!!! Enjoy the reading

XOXO 😘 Noe!

🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹

I am woken up by laughter coming from the kitchen. 

I look for the cell phone in stores and the time greets me like a little mockery, marking 08:45. I let out a sigh as I think about Steven having to go to work soon, but when I look at the calendar, I remember that it's Saturday.

 I look around the room and the first thing I see is my clothes folded on one of the chairs, Steven's bag on his new desk and Jake's beret hanging from the closet doorknob and I know, Marc's gun is hidden in a compartment under the bed so Isis couldn't find it.

 I let out a laugh at the naturalness of the situation and I remember that 6 years ago, that seemed to me the strangest thing in the world.

When Isis came into our lives, just a few months after Tawered gave us her blessing, it was a revolution.  We didn't have enough time to prepare.

I laugh, remembering the look on Steven's face when I told him as I left the doctor's office.

 " - How did everything go, love? - Steven hugs me while he takes the small bag that I have in my hand and guides me to the exit of the hospital - Are you a little…

 - I have to tell you something, but I need you to promise me that you won't panic.

 - Are you sick? - The alarm in Steven's voice makes me shake my head as I feel tears fighting to come out of my eyes - What's wrong love? I'm sure it's something we can fix, don't worry. I'll put pressure on the damn pigeon if necessary...

 - I'm pregnant.

Silence. Steven falls silent and I feel him change for a moment, and I can see that the tense shoulders and heavy breathing are Marc's.

 - These….  Are you serious, baby?

 I nod as I hand him the scan and Marc looks at it like a jackal about to attack him.  His hand shakes and he takes a deep breath trying to calm down.

 - I know that perhaps it is not the perfect time, but the doctor told me that I should be approximately four months.

We both look at each other and I know we're thinking the same thing: Tawered visited us three months ago.

 - I know... it's not what we expected, or maybe not so soon but...

 My words stop midway when I feel his lips on mine. It is a soft kiss, full of fear and other emotions that I cannot decipher but that I respond with the same effusiveness, running my hands over his shoulders and tangling my hands in his hair.

 - It's perfect, baby.  We all wanted this - He pulls away from him enough to rest his hand on my belly and lets out a sigh - Steven had a feeling that maybe…this would happen in the near future.

 - And you?

 - I'm scared as hell, but it's our baby. It's yours and ours, how the hell am I not going to be happy if you just made me the happiest man in the world? Terrified, but happy.

 I hug him while I cry and thank him that he is taking it so well.

 - It's okay love, calm down. It's the hormones for sure - I move away enough to see that Steven sees me with a big smile and drops his bag on the floor to kneel in the hall of the same medical center to give me a kiss on the belly. He doesn't even care that there are people around, that we are alone or in a public place. He lets out a laugh when he kisses me and he looks at me like I'm the only thing in his world right now.

 - You are the most beautiful and important woman in our life. Thank you for this.

 - Steven… I'll cry again.

 - Do what you want, love. What do you want?  Chocolate?  Sweets?  Those marshmallows that you only eat with Layla? I'll get it.

 - I just want to go home.

 - Your wishes are orders, princess"

 When we realized that Tawered's words were serious, we found a new apartment that is bigger and set it in the same way that Steven's was. Several bookshelves lined the walls of the living room, the kitchen was at the other end of it, and the bedrooms were down the hall.

 It was all perfect.  Like now.

I get up quickly as I listen to Isis muttering about school while her father is completely silent. I walk slowly to my favorite hiding place behind one of the columns in the living room and I am delighted with the most tender scene in the world: Steven has his back to me like Isis on the kitchen island, surely preparing breakfast, since Marc and Jake only burn the food if they get to light a stove, but our little girl is standing on a small chair to keep up with her dad, who mutters things as he listens to her talk like a parrot about what she learned in the school.

 At the beginning, when Isis was just a baby, it was not difficult to deal with the changes between the three of them, it was even very easy for each one to adapt to her, but when she began to be aware of her surroundings, we had to find a way that she understood that her father was, divided into three parts, so to speak, and a term that she used to explain it to her teacher. And that I had to clarify when I showed up to look for her, explaining well that her father has DID.

 We thought that it would be much more difficult for her to assimilate it, but it turned out that our little girl inherited Steven's prodigious intelligence and got used to them, noticing the changes in his attitudes, accents and behaviors.

 I still remember the first time she saw them in his superhero's outfits, her little brown eyes sparkled as if she had a piece of candy in front of her. She even sighed when she saw that Marc looked like one of those mummy that Stevens showed her in the books.

I ended up making fun of it ever since.

 It was easy for everyone, but each one has a particular role with Isis.

 Steven is the one who is in charge of taking her to the school when I have work meetings, he loves it when she shares her moments of the day with him and even more so when she sits on his lap to do the tasks they send her. They read books about Egypt and the stars together, which draw a lot of attention from Isis and they spend hours and hours as if there was no one else in the apartment but them.

 How now, that they take advantage of the fact that I'm supposedly sleeping to catch up on their "father and daughter" things: they have their routine of preparing the food that Steven has that day, if I take care of lunch, they prepare dinner and so every day.

Flashback: Steven

 - You know, I found this method so that Isis can be independent since she was little - Steven's voice reaches me from the living room while I see behind me that Isis is practically passed out on Steven's chest, who is holding a book at the height of the back of the chair and I notice that he's somewhat uncomfortable, but he does not even move in order not to wake up our little girl - It belongs to a teacher...

 - The Montessori method?

 - Yes! I think it could be good to teach her how to cook, to put away her toys, to dress herself... - I hear his words are losing strength and I know that he is looking at her, surely discovering some detail of her that he didn't notice before or he is just admiring her when she sleeps - She is beautiful, she is intelligent and she is my light, like you, love.

 - You'll make me cry. Do you want me to leave a puddle of tears in the kitchen?

 - No, but I like to tell you whenever I can. I don't know what we did to deserve two beautiful women like you, I don't understand.

 I feel my heart pounding against my chest and I set things down on the kitchen counter as I walk over to the couch and lie back facing me upside down as Isis sits back and lets out a sigh that catches their attention. She wraps her arms around Steven's body and he supports her so she doesn't fall to the ground, when half of her body is on top of him and the other half of her is between his legs.

 - Do you want me to load it for a while and you prepare dinner? That way you won't have back pain tomorrow.

 - No, I'm fine.  Leave me with her a while longer before I take her off Marc - I bent down enough to kiss him on the lips and as soon as I separated from him, I heard Isis start to cry.

 Steven sits up quickly as he cradles her in his arms, murmuring soothing words to her that stop our 3-year-old from crying.  She sees him and stretches out her little arms to encircle his neck and rest her little head on his neck while he murmurs a story about ancient Egypt where a human being helped a god move the stars to save the world .

 ...

- I know you don't like going to school, but to find out you have to go - I hear Steven say softly while I hold back my urge to laugh. Both of them were a source of knowledge that would easily override any teacher just by saying a few words.

 - I do not like it.  I'd rather learn with you at the museum.

 - I know, but it's not right.  I didn't like school either, but you learn to love it a little.  Marc wasn't much of a fan of it's either.  Has he told you? - She shakes her head as she turns around and I see that her face is covered in flour, as well as part of her hair and her fuchsia pajamas - He was the most unruly of the three.

 Isis giggles as the flour dust on her hair spreads around the kitchen and Steven hands her what appear to be cups, which she places on a tray.

 - Does your arm still hurt?

 - A little bit, but I didn't fall from that high dad, calm down - Isis leans on Steven's arm and let out a sigh.

 - Jake is an idiot.

 - Oh… you said bad words, dad - Isis takes out the little jar with the label "Bad Words" and I laugh when I see that Steven searches his pockets and moves his hand to Isis's face and takes a coin from behind his ear and leaves it in the jar.

 For every bad word, a coin to the jar.  Jake's idea.

 Jake is the one who is in charge of teaching him Spanish and is the "fun" one, from his perspective, of the three.

 He takes care of his "girl" whenever he can, but he mainly taught her how to ride a bike when Khonshu stopped bothering him.  If there was one thing he hated it was having to leave Isis with a sad look because the bird was coming out with stories of "There's trouble in Cairo" or "Ammit's looking for new followers" or whatever, but Jake had to go.

 Still, he ended up teaching her to ride a bike around 11 p.m. on the roof of our building.

 Flashback: Jake

 - Perfect, you'll do it slowly, mi niña - Isis listens carefully to Jake's words, who is showing her what the brake is and how to move the pedals, at the same time that he verifies that the support wheels of the bicycle are correctly placed - When I tell you, you squeeze this.

 - Jake, remember that she is Steven's daughter too. She learns fast - I scoff as I see that he gives me a murderous look of those that I enjoy provoking and he makes fun of me muttering in a perfectly clear Spanish:

 "Hablaremos de esto en nuestra habitación cuando ella esté bien dormida"

 - Of course, Lockley.

 - Do you see how your mother makes fun of me?  - Isis looks at me over her shoulder and lets out a laugh as soon as Jake tickles her side to get her to focus again - Listen to me, hazlo despacio, cariño. No quiero que te lastimes.

 - Ajam - Isis pushes her pedal down slowly and Jake begins to push her until she lets go and she begins to walk on her own, as if she had done it all her life. I see the look of pride Jake looks at her with and I feel like she's all in the right place for him. Isis stops and we both applaud her, even she laughs when she gets off the bike and runs into my arms, while she gives me a hug and sits next to me, watching as her father looks for the bike between murmurs and humming of a song in Spanish.

 - You are my pride, my little Isis. You were right, she learn fast - I nod behind her and we laugh with our little girl about the secret that only we both know.

- Will he ever know that daddy taught me how to ride a bike?  - My little girl murmurs referring to Steven when he leans against my chest, letting out a yawn, an indicator that it's time for him to sleep.

- Not for us.

 We both laugh knowingly as Jake takes her from my arms and carries her downstairs to make her sleep like every night.

 …

Now Steven walks into the living room and pulls out a bright blue paper-wrapped package that catches my eye and places it among the cups, while Isis claps her hands as she arranges it.

 What the hell are they hiding from me?

- So you were rambunctious, Dad?

I don't notice the change, but I know it's Marc next to her because Isis sits on the island and stares at him, like he's some kind of insect mesmerized by the sun.  It didn't take long to find out that Isis had a preference for one of them, but her love for Marc is palpable in the air.

 Isis has a deep soft spot for Marc.

It's everything for her, just seeing her face lights up in such a way that it is impossible for me not to identify with her.

 - Yes.  Very rambunctious - His american accent fills the room and she gets close enough to kiss her on the head.

When Steven leaves in the morning, Isis knows that at night, Marc appears and waits patiently on the couch until she hears the sound of the key and without a word, throws himself into his arms giving him time to drop the bag and he hugs her as I get close enough not to interrupt their moment and only give him a welcoming kiss on the lips when he pulls her away for a second.

 I lean against the table in the hall and watch as Isis grabs his face and kisses him on the cheek. And they also carry out their routine, she barely separates from Marc, she changes, we have dinner and they sit on the couch while he reads her a story until she falls asleep on his chest or in his arms. she. Still, she always wants her hands to be intertwined, and he enjoys it.

Every time she can, Marc tells her that he loves her and she repeats it as if she knows he needs to hear it, the love they feel for each other is so deep that no one can match it. Marc is protective, sweet and very attentive with Isis as he is with no one, he is free with her, without ties or ghosts that persecute him. She is his princess and he is her prince charming.  They always dance together in the living room without music, as if only they will hear it. They have a special connection that I just adore.

They are the missing piece of each other's puzzle.

 Flashback: Marc

I walk barefoot to the couch and drop into Marc's lap, who wraps his arms around my waist and circles my bare skin on my stomach - I have to tell you something, Marc.

 - Tell me baby. Has something happened with Isis?

 I nod and he tenses under me, but I turn around enough to stroke his chest slowly, trying to reassure him. - The teacher asked her today in the school who is her hero. Guess what he said.

 Marc looks at me for a few seconds and rolls his eyes as he waits for an answer that will make him swear.

 - Don't tell me, if one of those princes from the little cartoons she looks at has said, I'll go right now.

I start to laugh and he gives me a look full of annoyance, of those that say "don't make fun of me, baby".

 - Do not…

 - If she said Captain America or that Spider Man, I swear I ask Khonshu to end my agony.

 - No idiot.

 I hand his her notebook and he reads her doodles, but I see a smile form on his lips as soon as he finishes, accompanied by an unusual blush for Marc.

 - Did she say this?

I nod as I see Isis watching us from behind the library column and looking with unconditional love at her father, who is not even aware of how much she loves him.

- I think you're your little daughter's weakness, Marc.

I hand him the cell phone where the video of Isis in the garden is.

- Who is your hero, Isis? - Asks her teacher while all the other children are silent.

- My dad Marc. I love my dad Steven and my dad Jake, but… - she hesitates for a few seconds and sits up straight in her chair and lets out a sigh, as if she were in love - My dad Marc is my prince charming. He always comes to my rescue when I cry or when I hit myself, he reads to me before sleeping and I hug him a lot so he knows how much I love him. I don't know if he knows, but I always tell him when he sleeps, in case he has bad dreams and that might wake him up.

- Shit. I know not… - His words are cut off and I know he is holding back from crying, recently Marc had become more sentimental about us and it is a part of him that he had learned to love over time - Fucking Khonshu.

- Now what is the bird's fault?

- That I waste time with my princess because I'm working for him - He admits as I see Isis approaching us and I move away enough to let her sit between the two of us - You know I love you, princess?

She nods and leans into me as she takes Marc's hand and smiles as she literally melts like jelly at her display of affection.

I can already imagine how difficult it will be when she grows up and has a boyfriend.

He won't let them live in peace.

- And I love you too, baby. Thanks for giving me this. I don't… I don't know if you're aware of how happy you've made me. How happy it has made us.

- Yes, I am every day.  I love you too. Very much.

...

- Now let's stop talking and go to the important thing - Marc turns around, looks around with his eyes and without looking directly at where I am, lets glimpse that mischievous smile that I love so much and I know that he is aware that I am hiding somewhere - Are we going to wake up mummy?

Isis screeches and I get up quickly as I run into the room, but I barely have time because I scream when I feel Marc take me in his arms and lean me against the nearest wall and give me a passionate kiss of those that he knows that make me lose my mind

- So you were eavesdropping on our conversation, baby?

- No, I just heard you muttering and couldn't sleep anymore. You speak very loudly - He gives me a smile and I kiss him again, concentrating for a second on our bodies stuck together and how my heart beats wildly from his caresses - Isis?

- I told her to count to 30 before she came, I needed to touch you.

 I let out a laugh and as soon as I break away, I hear Isis's footsteps down the hall.

- We are the luckiest men on the fucking planet. I still can't believe it.

- Well, you have a family and all the time in the world to believe it, get the idea.

[creativeashproductions]

Proceed With Caution // Evan Buckley

IN WHICH: The reader doesn’t expect to become involved in a hostage situation with her fiance’s older sister, the older sister’s best friend and the best friend’s date from hell. With the addition of a SWAT member, how will the taking of dispatch change?

Warnings: Swearing, blood, threats, angst, guns, hostage/kidnapping

Words: 5.9k

A/N: Recently got into the tv show 9-1-1 and completely fell in love with Buck so here I am writing for him as well. This takes place during the season three episode ‘The Taking of Dispatch 9-1-1’. Reader and Buck are already in an established relationship.

TO BE TAGGED SEND AN INBOX/ASK PLEASE!

Masterlist

The apartment was quiet as the sound of your keys clattered in the bowl on the countertop. It was pretty early in the morning, so you had no doubts that Buck would be just waking up. On his days off, he would use the first day to catch up on sleep; based on prior times, he would be up in half an hour.

“Buck?” You called out from the kitchen. You heard a groan from the loft where Buck was in the process of waking up, “I forgot to drop off that book Maddie wants to borrow. When I get back, do you want to get breakfast?”

A grumble you somehow translated to approval was what you received in response. You jogged up the stairs to the loft to grab the book from your bookshelf. Buck’s bare leg stretched out from underneath the comforter on your side. The soft sighs Buck made in his sleepy state tugged at your heart; the sighs grew louder when you bent to kiss his head.

“See you in a bit.” You whispered to the sleepy soft male. He sleepily grinned in response before curling into your pillow.

The sound of your footsteps softened on the steps back to the main level of the apartment. Your keys snagged from the bowl before you gently closed the door behind you. The sun was gorgeous to be awake to see and had Buck not worked a long shift, you’d have adored watching it with him.

Your car pulled out of the parking spot in the Los Angeles Service Center’s direction that Maddie worked at. Your lips quirked as the radio spewed out the station that Christopher listened to in the car. You could even pick up the book in the backseat where he called his spot. The book could be found in Buck’s Jeep as well.

It had maybe three days since you’d seen the young Diaz, and damn did you miss the kid. Christopher has his enigmatic quality that demanded you love him for all that made him simply Christopher. The second you’d met him, you knew he would mean a lot to you.

You hummed in time with the song that was currently Christopher’s absolute favourite. Slowly you went from humming to singing along when the light turned green. A handful of songs came and went on the admittedly long drive due to traffic.

It was about forty minutes after leaving your apartment that you parked next to Maddie’s car in the parking lot. Lucy was sitting at the front office with a grin you matched. The woman buzzed you before she clocked out with her reprieve Jake.

“Hey, Sue!” You grinned at the older redhead. Sue had absolutely no problem seeing you, given that you were welcome in the building.

Sue’s first interaction was when you came to the centre to pick up Maddie when she came to work sick. Maddie had managed to keep it under wraps for an hour before Sue caught on. Ever since, Sue was fond of asking Maddie about her brother and you.

“Maddie’s not in just yet.” Sue spoke with a kind smile, “If you’ll excuse me, I have to meet with one of our sit alongs.”

You nodded towards her while beelining for the woman’s bathroom, hoping to catch Maddie after using it. You’d drank too much water on your run earlier this morning. Whether it was fortunate or unfortunate in the time you’d entered the bathroom, several things happened. Lucy ended her shift, Jake started his shift, and a group of strangers entered the building.

Your hand went to push open the door when through the crack, you saw two men you’d never seen before. Years of your job gave you enough feeling to know that something wasn’t right. That being said, you eased the door closed and attempted to find a hiding spot.

The garbage was too narrow and had no lid. The few seconds you had left, you glanced up. The ceiling hadn’t been renovated in many years. Rectangular sheets could be raised. Thankful of the rock climbing lessons you’d done with Maddie, you managed to crawl into the ceiling just as the two men entered.

“Nobody’s here.” The one-man with his head as pale and shiny as a cue ball. He gave off the most creepy vibe; the shorter Hispanic man wasn’t as violent looking, “Kinda hoping someone tries something. I’ve wanted to try out this.”

The man waved the large gun in his hand with a sick smile that twisted your stomach. That was the moment you’d realized something was very wrong. The second they left, you gently dropped back on the ground. Your first instinct was to send a message to Athena, but there was a fatal flaw. You’d expected to be in and out of the building quickly, so you’d left your phone in the car.

“Fuck.” You swore. One hand roughly running over your forehead as you contemplated figuring out a plan.

The building had many cameras throughout that you knew the blindspots for. The year after high school and during the summers, you’d worked in the building. Despite having worked here when you were younger, it was never during Sue’s shift. Over the years, you’d come to know the blind spots and a few cameras that were decoys. You even remembered Maddie and her friend Josh complaining about three cameras not fixed yet.

“Think.” You breathed, making a pattern of pacing, “They’ll need a lookout. They’ll take out the security guard first. The front doors are out. It’s a team, so they’ll also need eyes on the building. Terry is definitely a hostage.”

Of course, you’d end up in a volatile situation during the first half of your day before your shift started. The only comforting thing about the situation was the holstered gun on your hip and the badge on your belt. Maybe you should backtrack to why you had a gun and badge; you were an LAPD member, specifically SWAT.

“The changeroom.” You breathed, recalling it was down the hall with no camera. All you needed to do was pretend to be a dispatcher. The changeroom, now mostly a file room, had a few extra maroon and blue uniform shirts.

You timed it. The man holding Sue’s tablet was in the process of talking with his cohort, so you dashed to the room. You took no time in changing into a loose maroon shirt with your thick sweater overtop to hide the gun in the small of your back.

Your holster, badge and personal shirt tucked in the bottom of a box for safekeeping. As soon as you saw your entry, you sat with the group of hostages a hall over. A few looked surprised but let it go when you raised one finger to your lips.

“Y/N? What are you doing here?” Maddie hissed from the other side of a startled Josh. Both of them were surprised at seeing you here, “Oh my god. Buck is going to kill me.”

“I was dropping off your book before I get breakfast with Buck, but it appears my small bladder saved my life.” You snarked with your eyes scanning the room, “What’s going on?”

“That is my date from hell, Greg.” Josh inconspicuously pointed towards the man, clearly giving orders. The anger flared inside you, “You need to get out.”

“Josh, no offence, but I’m an officer with the LAPD. I work with SWAT. I’m your best bet of making it out alive.” You informed the dispatch duo, who went still as Cue Ball patrolled the hallway with a sadistic glint in his eyes.

“They took control of the building for a reason we don’t know about. We’re still working but under strict monitoring. They said it will be an hour, but we’ve seen their faces.”

“No witnesses.” You finished for Maddie with a deep sigh, “Unfortunately I left my phone in the car. Did they take yours-”

“They took Linda’s EpiPen. Of course, we don’t have phones.” Maddie sighed, leaning back to rest her head against the wall. Not even having a SWAT member by her side was comforting; your badge put a more significant target on you.

“We have to warn someone.” Josh mumbled to both Maddie and you, “You’re on shift Y/N?”

“Not for a few hours. I was supposed to drop off the book and get breakfast with Buck before my shift. This was supposed to be five minutes tops, so I left my phone in my car.”

“I already did.” Maddie spoke with a sad look on her face that overtook the fear, “I just hope he gets the message.”

Your hand reached out to squeeze the woman you’d had a hand in raising Buck more than their parents. Maddie had become family when you first started dating Buck. The in-law part of her familial relationship to you never crossed your minds; you were simply sisters to each other.

“Who?”

“Chim. I told him I loved him.” Maddie finished with a teary gaze. It made you sick seeing that look again after Doug.

You remembered seeing that haunted look when she stumbled out of the thicker woods covered in blood. You’d stayed by Athena’s side when Buck clutched her so tight and sobbed with her. It had been before you’d become serious with the man, but it was that frightening day that Buck fell for you. You’d just finished a taxing shift with your team when you heard about Maddie was missing, and Chim was in the hospital. You’d ignored the exhaustion to search high and low through your work contacts before narrowing the search area.

“Good thing Chimney obsesses over the little things.” You spoke, slouching down against the wall, “We’ll get throu-”

“Don’t do anything stupid.” Maddie warned you with her brows furrowed together, and you saw what she was doing. Despite your years of experience and the gun you had, she pushed her fear down behind the concern that a big sister shows her young siblings.

“I won’t.”

At 8am, Buck was just entering the apartment building from grabbing the mail addressed to both you and him when Chim had called.

“Yup, go for Buck.” Buck spoke, opening the door to the apartment he’d only temporarily left. His morning had been late after his long shift the night before. The most productive thing was dressing for his breakfast date with you and grabbing the mail.

“How come 9-1-1 doesn’t respond when I call?” Chimney questioned the younger, now confused male.

“Uh, is that some kind of riddle? Like who watches the watchmen?” Buck asked, closing the door behind him. His eyes scanned around for any indication you’d returned home, but the bowl was vacant of your keys.

“Neither of those things are riddles. Okay, I just tried calling 9-1-1, and I got the high call volume message. Did I miss an earthquake or something?”

“Nope, pretty chill morning.” Buck responded as he closed the fridge door with a bottle of water in hand. The entire conversation wasn’t concerning to him, given that Chimney was often like this.

“Where’s Y/N? She’s the police she’ll know-”

“She’s not home right now. Wait, why are you calling 9-1-1? Is everything okay?” Buck slowly asked with his brows coming together. The sigh of frustration from Chimney was answer enough.

“Your sister said that she loved me.”

“Yeah. Wasn’t that uh, the whole point in that big date you had last night?” Buck inquired on his way to the table. He had a feeling this was going to be a long conversation that would hopefully pass the time until you got home.

“You declare your love, and she declares hers? That’s how it went with Y/N and me.”

“Yeah, I know, okay, but she didn’t, all right? At least not last night. Look, she made this big deal saying that she couldn’t say those words, and then this morning, she blurts them out and hangs up on me.” Chimney speaks, pacing in his own apartment. The side by the side of Chimney and Buck’s separate apartments told different tales of their states.

“It’s still not quite sounding like an emergency.”

“’Cause I sound insane.” Chimney spoke, staring up at the ceiling with a battle in his mind. He wants Buck to talk him out of this, but he also wants Buck to agree with him, “She’s at the call centre. What could happen there? You know what, forget it, I’ll try Y/N again.”

“Again?” Buck questioned just as his co-worker ended the call. Buck tugged his phone away from his ear to stare at it confused.

You always answered the phone if you weren’t working at the moment, but given you still had hours, he found it unsettling. After seeing the news report with the ladder truck on top of him, calls weren’t ignored between you two. That feeling of concern grew when you didn’t answer his call either. Nor the second one.

“Nah, she’s probably talking with Maddie.” Buck spoke, but that second-guessing feeling didn’t dissipate. 

In the call centre, you’d been marched to one of the stations with a deep hope that you’d remember everything. It had been years by then since you’d worked as a dispatcher. It didn’t help with the gunmen patrolling the room.

“9-1-1, what’s your emergency?” You calmly questioned the caller.

“Hi, my cat is up the tree by my house. Could you send someone?”

“Can I get your name?” You went through the motions of getting her name and address before you informed the woman, “Okay, the LAFD and LAPD no longer respond to calls of cats in trees. The cat will make its way down on its own. If the tree is in your backyard, I’d use the time to garden or read a book on this beautiful day.”

“Oh, thank you. I’m sorry for taking up your time.”

“It’s no problem. Having a wonderful day Susan.”

In no time at all, you’d been rotated into the board room away from Josh and Maddie. It gave you time to inspect everyone you hadn’t made contact with yet. No one appeared harmed other than in distress with the situation.

“Downtown. They don’t want anyone downtown.” Linda whispered as Maddie was guided onto the floor by the elbow. You’d only gathered her name from her near-silent introduction to you when the hired guns had been far from your area.

“Let’s go.” Greg snapped, roughly pushing you towards the conference room. Something deep in your gut already predicted that someone was going to be stupid.

It was your sharp eyesight catching the minuscule agitation in Greg’s interactions with the Cue Ball guy. The slight tightening of his grip on the gun, the tension in the room growing stifling. And everyone knows that when emotions run high stupid things happen.

“Why do they keep moving us around like this?” The man beside Maddie questioned. He was definitely the most shaken of the group. He was basically shaking like a chihuahua.

“To disorient us.” Maddie spoke, staring at the group monitoring the dispatchers currently in play. Her eyes refused to leave them.

“So, we can’t make a plan.” You finished for your sister-in-law. Objectively out of everyone, Maddie, Sue and you were the most collected individuals for various reasons.

Maddie had lived in a volatile house with a man that could be unpredictable if a situation called for it in his mind. Sue had been working in the centre for years to navigate the emergency while you walked into dangerous situations.

“Jamal.” The shaking man spoke, holding his hand out towards you, “Are you new?”

“No.” You spoke as you shook his hand, “I’m Y/N. Maddie’s sister-in-law. I’m filling in as a favour for Sue.”

The lie slipped off your lips a little too quickly. You decided to come to this hostage situation as if you were undercover. It meant having to ignore that Maddie was in the situation with you.  

“Worst day for a favour.” Jamal snorted with his eyes pinned on one of the armed men holding all your lives in their hands. You’d have spoken, but Jamal checked out mentally from the conversation waiting for the other shoe to drop.

The shoe dropped when the IT Specialist announced numbly, “Jake’s dead. They shot him.”

It didn’t matter how long you’d been working for the LAPD, any death, whether it was a civilian or a criminal, it was still was startling. Jake, the security guard that alternated shifts with Lucy, wasn’t someone you spoke with. He was on shift when you weren’t here or just missed the shift change.

“We need to get a message out.” Jamal spoke, glancing at the only people in the right state of mind, and those were Maddie, Josh and you. Terry had seen the violence these men had no issues with.

“I did.” Josh breathed, thinking of the arguably cute security guard he sometimes liked to stare at, “A woman called about onions in an omelette. I dispatched an officer.”

“To the restaurant?” Maddie inquired with her pinkie connected with yours for comfort. Both of you would prefer your SO’s hand instead.

“Not exactly.” Josh replied, staring at his best friend with a glimpse of hope in his brown eyes.

Hope may be the only way you could get out of this without hurting anyone in your admittedly surface level plan.

“Buck will think something is up.” You added 

Buck had begun pacing the kitchen of the apartment with Chim adamantly telling his friend his plan to go to the centre. Buck had joined Chimney in the concerned department when you had failed to return to the apartment, return calls and to make matters worse, so was Maddie. His texts had gone unanswered as well, not even having the read receipt on.

“She’s not picking up either. I tried Y/N and Josh, but neither replied. When I tried Maddie and Josh, it went straight to voicemail.”

“Now, I’m definitely going.” Chimney announced, shoving his wallet into his pocket just as someone began knocking on his door.

“What if something is wrong? I know Y/N is a member of SWAT but radio silence? No text to let me know she was called in early?” Buck thought aloud with his finger dragging along his thigh, “Maybe we should call the police.”

“I...think someone already did.” Chimney informed Buck as he stared at the sudden appearance of Sergeant Athena Grant at his door.

“What? What do you mean?” Buck hastily questioned, leaning against the kitchen island. He could just faintly hear Athena speaking on Chimney’s end of the phone, “Chimney? What’s going on?”

“Athena was sent to my apartment. Hang on, Buck, I’m just gonna tell Athena what’s going on.”

Buck stepped away from the island to settle on the stairs to the loft, impatiently waiting for Chimney to finish speaking. That fear of losing pieces of his life expanded deep in his gut, just like the times Maddie left in his childhood. That fear of being left behind.

“What’s she’s saying now?”

“She’s making her case.” Chim whispered as he continued to eavesdrop on Athena’s call with her higher-ups, “Now she’s folding like a cheap suit.”

“All right, let me talk to Athena.” Buck demanded antsy to figure out the situation that clearly had something wrong. That fear he’d thought of early flared catching the tail end of Athena’s conversation, “No! No, no. We can’t just send in SWAT. If there is someone inside the call centre doing something, they’ll know we’re onto them.”

Unfortunately, Buck was correct in this thought process, all thanks to living with a SWAT member. He knew these things after the years he’d been with you.

“Maddie? I think I can sneak up to Terry’s computer. Maybe get eyes on the place-”

“No!” Terry nearly shouted, stiffening when Cue Ball hesitated in the doorway at his sudden shouts. You all held your breath for his reaction, but thankfully he was called away by one of the men, “They have-”

“Terry, I need you to calm down. I’m familiar with these types of situations. I’m SWAT. I need to get on top of this. Don’t be a hero.”

Maddie’s head began to shake when your arm was roughly grabbed by Greg, “Your turn.”

You were separated from Josh and Maddie, but instead of being pushed into one of the dispatcher seats, you were pulled to the original hallway.

“I don’t like how friendly you are with them.” Greg spat, shoving you to rest against the wall, “Don’t move.” 

You catch the eyes of Maddie with an apologetic expression before you used the pacing routine to sneak away. You didn’t release your breath until you were attaching your holder to your hip in the change room. By now, your team would be aware that something was wrong, Hondo would be hell-bent on finding you.

Until you had help, you were on your own.

You used each blindspot of the cameras in the halls to the stairwell, and you used a broom to adjust the cameras. The cameras not kept you from view but not appearing suspicious. Once at the floor where Terry was practically always at you softly closed the door. 

You’d only started to sit down when you heard the ding of the elevator, “Shit.”

You slipped into the closest containing extra parts if anything broke. Through the crack, you saw Terry being held at gunpoint. The gunman that had been holding the tablet on the floor, Ellis as you’d heard.

“You’re telling me every cop in the city has just disappeared?” Ellis demanded as Terry, and he disappeared around one of the corners. The tapping of a screen indicating Ellis was searching for something with Terry’s involuntary help.

“I’m telling you, I don’t know!” Terry snapped back, creating even more tension in the room, but Ellis didn’t move to grab his gun.

Ellis appeared to the only one reluctant to discharge your weapon, unlike Cue Ball, who just happened to join the party.

“Figure it out!” Ellis spat, turning on his heel at the sound of approaching footsteps. You could see him roll his eyes at his team member walking into the room.

“What’s going on here?” Cue ball questioned the duo in different kinds of distress, and you swore Cue Ball enjoyed the intimidation from his teammate and the IT specialist.

“That police car’s not the only one that’s gone dark.” Ellis nervously spoke, stiffening for the volatile reaction that one could expect from Foster.

“You think they know we’re here?” 

“Foster, it could be a system glitch.” Ellis offered keeping one eye on Cue Ball while monitoring Terry’s work as well.

Cue Ball spoke a sentence that sent chills up your spine, “Time to cut our losses.”

As Foster and Ellis began going over their personal plans made out of Greg’s knowledge, you noticed Terry glance over. His eyes widened slightly before quickly looking away when you raised a finger across your lips.

“We can go down the back stairs. I have a car waiting around the corner, we split the art up between the five of us, and we go our separate ways.” Foster spoke, revealing his plan to double-cross Greg, which in all honesty made sense. Greg was ill-fitting to be in charge of their operation, unable to control his lackeys.

“I like that part of the deal.” Ellis breathed, skirting around the trigger happy criminal only to halt in his steps, “Wait, you’ve got a car parked down the street? You were always gonna double-cross Greg.”

“You weren’t?”

“If we’re gonna do this, you can’t just sell famous works of art on eBay.”

“You can’t sell them from prison either.”

At that moment, something almost shifted in the area, something that made you pull your gun from your holster. Your body telling you something was about to happen. It happened in a split second. Foster fled the room leaving only Ellis just outside. With Terry frantically shaking his head, you tiptoed to the unsuspecting criminal.

“LAPD!” You shouted, pointing your gun towards the shocked man, “Put the gun down and put your hands up.”

“Aren’t you a dispatcher?” Ellis questioned, blinking in surprise.

“Aren’t you supposed to be intelligent? Next time check the schedule I haven’t worked here in years.” You spat, keeping your gun pointed on him, “Do I say-”

The sound of two guns going off made Terry flinch and scream as he instinctively dropped to the ground. IT was supposed to be safe, but Terry had now heard three gunshots in under two hours. He really didn’t want to see the outcome of the shots.

A moan coaxed Terry to peek out through the privacy glass. Ellis was on the ground while you kept your gun on him. He didn’t see anything else when the power went out. He didn’t see you drop to your knees, but he heard you.

“Terry...get down. Lay on your stomach with your hands insight, and don’t move.” You informed the terrified IT just as the floor was swarmed.

“Put the gun down!” The sound of Tan’s voice was welcoming as you slowly placed the gun on the ground. “25-David I have Y/L/N. The suspect is down, need medical.”

You got back to your feet when Tan nodded his head, “Thank god. There’s a possible body in the IT room along with the It Specialist Terry.”

“You got your badge on you?” Tan questioned as he cuffed the moaning Ellis up, “Street can you escort her down?”

Street nodded from his position, watching Tan’s back before guiding you to the stairs with hawk eyes. Even off duty, you kept your head on a swivel.

“You caused quite the commotion.” Street spoke halfway down the stairs when you barely mumbled. He caught you as you went down like a sack of potatoes, “Y/N!”

“Adrenaline is crashing.” You moaned, looking at your shoulder where the maroon had grown darker, “I think he shot me.”

“26-David I’m in the stairway. Prepare a medic.” Street spoke into his radio before he strapped the gun away and swept you into his arms, “Think you can have my back?”

“When don’t I?” You wheezed, with the sweat starting to bead on your forehead. As you crashed from adrenaline, you barely noticed being placed on the ground at the main entrance.

A paramedic cutting your borrowed shirt to reveal the bullet hole in your shoulder courtesy of Ellis, the only member who’d thought wouldn’t shoot his gun. You could vaguely hear Maddie calling out your name as you were loaded onto a gurney.

“M-Maddie?” You spoke, tilting your head to see Chris holding Maddie back from, “Chris! That’s my sister in law.”

Chris only let Maddie go when Hondo gave the all-clear, and you were so thankful when Maddie’s hand encased yours.

“Don’t close your eyes.” Maddie pleaded sick with the amount of blood on your skin and soaking through the gauze, “Who’s gonna help me put up with my little brother?”

“Buck.” You breathed sluggishly, blinking as the artificial lights changed to natural with the gun shining through the glass front doors.

“You didn’t let me close mine in that ambulance, so I need you to do the same. Don’t close them. I’m so sorry. This is all my fault.” Maddie cried as an officer pulled her aside as you were stopped. You wouldn’t remember it, but Maddie had to watch as you coded right in front of her.

Maddie had to watch them perform CPR on you and fight for a pulse. She had to think of how’d she’d tell her little brother she’d killed his fiance. The counting of the paramedics sounded as if underwater, and as they did, the world went quiet. Her mind checked out as the trauma settled in.

Maddie stumbled out of the building into a zoo of officers, medics, and news reporters almost robotically. She barely felt Chimney hug her, but she wrapped her arms around him and sobbed.

“It’s all my fault.” Maddie gasped, collapsing against him, “If I had-”

“Maddie?”

Chimney felt Maddie stiffen at the sound of Buck’s voice amidst the multiple voices milling around. Maddie raised her gaze to meet Buck’s blue eyes dripping in relief and question.

“Buck.”

“Maddie, where’s Y/N? Her car…” Buck trailed off, catching the utter heartbreak in his big sister’s eyes. A look he’d come to know in his line of work as a firefighter. The utter devastation that came with watching someone you love die, “No. No.”

“I got a pulse!” Came from the nearest ambulance, and Buck skirted around his sister and Chimney, “Ready to transport!” 

Your eyes slowly blinked at the white ceiling of the ambulance with pain in your midsection courtesy of chest compressions. Breathing came painful, and the bullet wound throbbed, but it all faded when you saw blue eyes above you.

“Buck.” You sobbed, more like groaned, as he was urged to sit on the bench holding your hand, “Maddie?”

“She’s okay. Chim’s got her. Can you keep your eyes on me? I need to see those big beautiful e/c eyes.” Buck soothed, bringing your hand to his lips, “Did I ever tell you my favourite colour?”

Despite Buck’s best attempts, you continued fading in and out of consciousness but continued to be stable. He spoke about the funny video Eddie had shown him of Christopher at the end of their shift last night. He talked about everything and anything under the sun during the short ride to the hospital.

The last thing you saw was Buck being held back as the paramedics pushed the gurney into the ER. Everything turned black.

The beeping was the first thing you heard before your eyes fluttered open to a stark white room and that unmistakable hospital scent. You noticed the second thing as Buck holding your hand in both of his with his forehead pressed against them.

“Buck?” You moaned to the one person you had wished to see. The man whose eyes were bloodshot from crying, “What’s wrong?”

“Your heart stopped beating twice. I thought I was gonna lose you.” Buck cried with his lips pressed against your hand, “I was so worried.”

“Hey. I’m fine. I’m here.” You cooed, tugging one hand away to run through his messy hair with a soft smile. His blue eyes brighten at the familiar feeling of your digits in his hair, “I’m not going anywhere. This isn’t here for decoration.”

His eyes found the ring he’d gently placed back on your finger from when the nurses had removed it. It only left your finger when you were on duty, in which it was slung on a necklace hidden under your uniform.

“Better not be.”

“Does the hospital have a chapel?” You questioned out of the blue leading to Buck snorting as you giggled, “I’m serious. When I was bleeding in that building, all I could think about was you. If Maddie is anything like you, she’s waiting in the waiting room with Chimney.”

“You aren’t wrong. All the chairs are taken. Our family was waiting for you to wake up.” Buck breathed, leaning closer to press a sweet kiss to your lips, “Are you sure?”

“About marrying you?” You softly questioned the man who couldn’t help but believe this was a dream. How he’d somehow got the girl of his dreams to agree to marry his ass, “I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life. All I want to share is your last name for the rest of my life. You are it for me, Evan Buckley. All the flaws you see are beautiful to me.”

“Only you would want to get married after being shot mere hours ago.” Buck chuckled with a sigh pulled from his pink lips, “I’ll get the doctor for you and find out if we can be married here.”

While you were checked out, Buck left the room to go back to the waiting room where the 118 and your co-workers waited. Everyone perked up at his appearance, Christopher asleep on Eddie’s lap.

“Is she okay?” Bobby questioned as the tension in the room grew more and more. It shattered into relief when Buck grinned.

“She’s sore as expected. She’s gonna catch some sleep, but she’d like to see Maddie.” Buck replied, pinning his gaze on his big sister with her curled into Chimney’s body. Her cheeks flooded with tears of absolute relief, “C’mon.”

The waiting room started emptying with Buck’s promise to keep everyone updated, but before Bobby could step away, Buck asked for him.

“Do you need a few days off?” Bobby questioned just as Buck came closer to the seasoned firefighter.

“No. But could you spare an hour?” The expression on Buck’s face was enough for Bobby not to ask any further questions. He simply followed Buck back towards your hospital room, where Maddie and Chim waited.

“What’s going on?” Bobby inquired, with the addition of the hospital assigned Priest holding the standard bible. Chimney could only shrug in response to whatever was going on.

“I know there have been times we haven’t seen eye to eye, but Bobby, you’re like a father to me. You gave me chance after chance when anyone else would have given up. You guided me on how to be a man. Y/N and I would like it if you’d be here for this.”

“Wait, are you getting married? What about the wedding?” Maddie spluttered, flicking her gaze between her brother and you. Her question surprised her boyfriend and Bobby.

“We’ll still have it. But I want to marry her without the pressure of our parents. Just a private ceremony with some of the people that mean the most to us.” Buck answered for the two of you, “Would you stay?”

“Of course.” Maddie softly spoke with a slideshow of memories playing in her mind of watching Buck grow up.

Watching Evan go through all kinds of injuries, all in the name of attention but never getting it the way he deserved it. She remembered giving him advice for asking out Donna and holding him when he was rejected. The little toddler with the impish grin somehow turned into an idiot in the hospital.

Maddie saw the man her little brother had turned into with the help of the 118 and you.

Buck’s fingers made quick work of buttoning his short-sleeve uniform with the sudden appearance of his friend.

“That’s new.” Eddie spoke from his opened locker holding his uniform and a picture of his family on the door. It was a picture of Christopher, Buck, you and Eddie from the zoo a couple months back.

Buck looked over at his best friend, “Hm?”

“The ring.” Eddie snorted dramatically, looking at the ring that had been living on his finger since he married you five days ago, “Did my invite get lost in the mail?”

“Nah, we just got married in the hospital. We’re still planning the wedding to appease both sides of our family. And I promised Christopher he could be in the wedding. With Y/N on medical leave, the planning will be faster. She’s going stir crazy after five days.” Buck finished tucking in the shirt into his work-issued pants. Lastly, he slid his ring onto the metal chain he had bought recently.

Like you did, he would wear it around his neck when working for safety reasons.

“I’m happy for you, man.” Eddie told his friend just as the bell rang, “You’ll have to tell me how you’re liking the married life.”

“But first, we have a job to do.” Buck supplied all the while jogging to suit up in his turnout gear with Hen and Chimney.