#tobias x casey asks masterlist

[jerzwriter]

Welcome Brooke Vivian Carrick!

In my headcanon for Tobias & Casey, little Brooke joins the family on August 30, 2025. But I'm delivering this incredible artwork to you one year earlier! This lovely commission is from none other than the incomparable @/artbyainna on Instagram. I've run out of amazing things to say about her, but she never, ever disappoints.

I had hoped to write more about Brooke's birth story—and maybe one day I will—but I really wanted to share this before the end of August. Some HCs about Casey's pregnancy and Brooke's birth can be found below. Maybe I'll write a little more about them one day. I sure do love this little family!

You can find some stories about this time in Round Two and more about Tobas x Casey on Tobias x Casey's Masterlist.

Caption Pietro (the cat): To me, he's saying "Not impressed!" 😂

Pregnancy/Birth Headcanons:

As with her first pregnancy with Sammy, poor Casey was pretty much nauseous for the first three months. That was even more challenging with a toddler underfoot. Fortunately, Tobias was always quick to tell her to rest, and grandmas Vivian and Rose were all too happy to step in when needed.

The minute morning sickness ends - Casey is famished and has tons of cravings. Tobias was better prepared for that this time. This time around, she wanted Greek salads and French fries most of all. See a little Insta edit about that below.

Tobias made it clear he wanted a big family; Casey made it clear she was the one who had the babies, and he agreed; it was her call. They never said definitively that this was their last, but they both believed it was. They really took time to cherish every moment of this special time.

Casey and Tobias were happy to see her sex drive was insane during this pregnancy, their friends asked how they noticed a difference? lol

Tobias arranged a 'babymoon' vacation when Casey was seven months pregnant. He wanted to go to one of their favorite islands in the Pacific, but he wasn't keen on Casey traveling so far from home while pregnant. He also wasn't about to take her to any states that could jeopardize her life if she were to have complications, so that limited his choices. They ended up at a luxury hotel in Cape May, New Jersey. He got a suite on a separate floor for Vivian and Rose, too. This way they got some relaxation and they could all spend time with Sammy - but Mom & Dad got plenty of alone time, too.

Once again, Tobias insisted they were having a daughter, so he never even looked at boy's names. Girl's names were also a challenge; neither could come up with anything they loved. Finally, his Aunt Cher suggested Eden or Brooke for Edenbrook. They loved the idea and decided to wait until the baby was born to see if she looked more like an Eden or a Brooke. Obviously, Brooke won! She was given Tobias's mother's name, Vivian, as a middle name.

For most of Casey's pregnancy, Sammy was unimpressed about the idea of a new baby, but toward the end, she decided it would be fun. So she was eager to meet her little sister, and when they brought Brooke home, Sammy really thought it was a present just for her.

Pietro, their cat, was obsessed with her baby bump throughout her pregnancy but had no interest in Brooke once she was born. Casey and Tobias joked it was an odd way to learn their cat was a Republican.

Like her sister, Brooke was anxious to enter the world and came a little earlier than expected. Her due date of September 20th became a birthdate of August 30th. Casey was in labor for 5 1/2 hours, but there were complications, and it was decided it would be best to have a C-section. Tobias was at her side through it all (and she was telling him to get a vasectomy most of that time....)

They were overjoyed when little Brooke was safely delivered, and they spent the next few days in the hospital suite marveling over her and trying to wrap their heads around the fact that they now had two little girls. Tobias was outnumbered, and he loved it.

Here's a little edit about Casey's cravings - well, at least the food cravings - this pregnancy lol

[tobias-carrick-appreciation-week]

TCAW Appreciation Week 2024 - Masterlist

🔵 New Content | 🟣 Throwback Content Ⓜ️ Mature Content

Thank you to this year's participants - there were not many of us - but look at all we did! We had over 40 new submissions! It was so much fun! Thank you to all who participated and supported!

And to my fellow Tobias stans - you WILL be getting requests from me throughout the year! lol Thanks so much!

Day 1: Travel and Leisure:

Christmas Through Your Eyes [fanfic series] 🟣- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Come Away with Tobias & Casey [template] 🟣 - Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

The Getaway [fanfic]🔵- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @alj4890

High Seas [fanfic] 🟣- Tobias Carrick x F!MC, Ethan Ramsey - @jerzwriter

The Perfect Day [fanfic] 🔵- Tobias Carrick, Ethan Ramsey, Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

More below...

Day 2: Friendship

A Shot of Reality [fanfic] 🟣- Tobias Carrick, MC - @jerzwriter

Have a Punny Day [fanfic] 🟣 - Tobias Carrick, Cassie Valentine - @liaromancewriter

Tobias's Friends [Collage & HC] 🔵- Tobias Carrick, Ethan Ramsey, Bryce Lahela, Original Characters - @jerzwriter

Tobias & Ethan Friendship Fics & Art [Masterlist] 🟣- @jerzwriter

Tobias & Friends Art Commissions [Collage] 🟣 - @jerzwriter (art by @bayleedraws-sometimesx and @/artbyainna (IG) )

Day 3: Seasons

Tobias's Favorite Seasons [Collage & HC] 🔵 @jerzwriter

Day 4: Fashion/Style

Friendship & Fashion [fanfic] 🔵Tobias Carrick & MC - @jerzwriter

TBI [fanfic] 🔵- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @alj4890

WIP - Tobias & Merida [fanart] 🔵 - Tobias Carrick & MC - @lilyoffandoms

Day 5: Date Night:

Can't Help It [fanfic] 🔵- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @alj4890

Date Night [text fic/insta edits]🟣- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Date Night Fanart [art collage] 🔵art by @weetlebeetle and @/artbyainna - @jerzwriter

Haunting [fanfic] 🟣 - Tobias Carrick x F!OC, Ethan Ramsey x F!OC - @jerzwriter

I don't quite recall... [fanfic]🔵- Tobias Carrick x M!Trystan Thorne (Open Heart/Crimes of Passion Crossover) - @jerzwriter

Movie? What Movie? [fanfic/fanart] 🔵- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

A Not So Chance Encounter [fanfic]🟣 - Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

A Perfect Date [fanfic]🟣- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Toy Story [fanfic]🟣Ⓜ️ - Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

An Unlikely Occurance [fanfic] 🔵- Tobias Carrick x Harper Emery - @coffeeheartaddict2

Day 6: Family

Anticipation [fanfic] 🔵- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @alj4890

Family HC 🔵- @coffeeheartaddict2

Family HCs 🔵 - @jerzwriter

Tobias Family Fics Masterlist 🟣- @jerzwriter

Day 7: Let's Talk About Sex

NSFW HC 🔵Ⓜ️- @coffeeheartaddict2

NSFW Stats 🔵Ⓜ️- [revised] - @jerzwriter

Other:

The Dinner Party [fanfic] 🔵- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @alj4890

Game On! [fanfic] 🔵- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @alj4890

It's Not Your Business [fanfic] 🔵 - Tobias Carrick x F!OC - @tveitertotwrites

Oops! [fanfic]🔵- Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @alj4890

A Text of Reassurance [text fic] 🔵 Tobias Carrick, F!OC - @storyofmychoices

Spread Joy #901 - 🔵Tobias Carrick @storyofmychoices

You Got This, Buddy! [fanfic] 🔵 Tobias Carrick, Ethan Ramsey - @coffeeheartaddict2

What would Tobias do? Answers

Day 1 ... if he could no longer practice medicine?

@coffeeheartaddict2 🔵Answer

@jerzwriter 🔵Answer

@tveitertotwrites 🔵Answers to 2023 and 2024 Prompts

Day 2 ... if he won $50 million in the lotto?

@alj4890 🔵 Always Winning [fanfic] Tobias Carrick x F!MC

@coffeeheartaddict2 🔵Answer

@jerzwriter 🔵Answer

@tveitertotwrites 🔵Answers to 2023 and 2024 Prompts

Day 3... if he found a magic lantern and was granted 3 wishes?

@alj4890 🔵 Asked and Received [fanfic] Tobias Carrick x F!MC

@jerzwriter 🔵 Answer

@coffeeheartaddict2 🔵 Answer

@tveitertotwrites 🔵Answers to 2023 and 2024 Prompts

Day 4... If he witnessed a crime?

@coffeeheartaddict2 🔵Answer

@jerzwriter 🔵Answer

@tveitertotwrites 🔵Answer

Day 5... he opened an (embarrassing) package by mistake?

@coffeeheartaddict2 🔵 Answer

@jerzwriter 🔵Special Delivery [fanfic] Tobias Carrick x F!MC

@tveitertotwrites 🔵 Answers to 2023 and 2024 Prompts

Day 6... he finds out he's dating a porn star?

@jerzwriter 🔵 Summer Haze [fanfic] Tobias Carrick x F!OC

@tveitertotwrites 🔵Answers to 2023 and 2024 Prompts

Day 7... overhears colleagues doing...?

@alj4890 🔵You Heard, What! [fanfic] - Tobias Carrick x F!MC, Aurora Emery x M!OC

@jerzwriter 🔵Answer

@tveitertotwrites 🔵 Answer

[lovealexhunt]

[2023 Masterlist] 2024: ☆January-March☆April-June☆

Thomas Hunt x Alex Spencer  [HollywoodU]  [Red Carpet Diaries]

My Favorite Place + Art: A quick dialogue with Thomas x Alex

Happy New Year + Art 🎨: Alex and Thomas spend New Year's Eve at a Charity gala.

Cafe Wishes and Scone Kisses [Alex x Addison]: Alex and Addison have a coffee date. [HWU]

Bryce Lahela x Olivia Hadley [Open Heart]

Couples Skate: Olivia takes Bryce ice skating.

#PlantLove: Olivia celebrates National Houseplant Appreciation Day.

Conversation Heart Letter: Bryce uses conversation hearts to write a Valentine's letter for Olivia

A Dinomite Find: Bryce discovers dinosaur chicken nugget pillows and they are a must! [📱]

Women in Science Interview + Edit: Olivia, Merida, and Casey are interviewed for an article celebrating Women in Science and Medicine.

Mal Volari x Daenarya [Blades 1] [Blades 2] [Orphanage]

Adventures with Threep: Three vignettes of Threep's life with Rayden, Mal, and Daenarya. [Pregnant Threep]

Lost & Found + Art 🎨 : Art for and snippet from The Quest for Daenarya

Pillow Talk Under the Sun: Daenarya and Mal enjoy a warm afternoon in the backyard of the orphanage.

Trystan Thorne x Lilah Rose [Crimes of Passion]

Hidden Romance: Lilah makes an interesting discovery at Trystan's apartment.

Beckett Harrington x Emma Carlyle [The Elementalists]

Yoga & Pancakes: Emma, Shreya, and Atlas run into Beckett at breakfast and Emma discovers a new Attuned food.

Tuneless Wonder + Art 🎨 : Emma shows Beckett that the tuneless world has magic of its own.

Nyx Selenastra x Aerin Valleros [Blades 2]

Crossroads: Aerin follows a unicorn through the woods, only for it to lead him to a mysterious elf.

Writing Gifts

Love in the Afternoon [Tobias x Casey for jerzwriter]: Tobias and Casey enjoy an afternoon dance.

Whimsical Walks and Poetic Talks [Ernest x Tulsi for oh-so-youre-a-nerd] : Ernest and Tulsi take a late afternoon walk around Ledford Park.

In the Arms of Night [Mal x Autumn for ThoseHallowedHalls]

Funko Pop

Bryce x Olivia

Blades of Light & Shadow

Valax (Book 2)

Imtura Tal Kaelen (Book 2)

Nia Ellarious—WIP (Book 2)

Maiele Nightbloom (elf MC) for lilyoffandoms

Daenarya of Riverbend (human MC)

Marya Moonglory (elf MC) for gaiuskamilah

The Elementalists

Helios (Arylu - The Elementalists) [featured]

Laws of Attraction

Wind (LOA MC) for oh-so-youre-a-nerd

Open Heart

Bryce x Olivia Easter Sketch

Bryce x Olivia Umbrella in the Rain Sketch

☆ Thomas x Alex Kiss with Bogart by ArtbyAinna

☆ Thomas x Alex Chibi: My Favorite Place by majoma_art (insta)

☆ Thomas and Alex holding a heart by liiyaan

☆ Hollywood Glamour Hunt by oh-so-youre-a-nerd

☆ Happy Birthday (me) and Alex by WeetleBeetle

☆ Thomas and Alex Cheeb Art by WeetleBeetle

☆ Thomas and Alex New Years Dance by ArtbyAinna

☆ Post Christmas Bliss: Thomas x Alex by wisejazz

☆ The Best Crew (blades chibi heads) by artoile

☆ Mal x Daenarya: All the Kisses by cammarada

☆ Lost & Found: Blades 2 Reunion by cashweasel

☆ Mal Christmas/Birthday Postcard by artoile

☆ Bryce x Olivia Kiss - Cherry Blossoms by irdeinfierno

☆ Olivia, Merida, and Casey: Women in STEM Day by ArtbyAinna

☆ Beckett x Emma Northern Lights by ArtbyAinna

☆ Nyx and Luna Rose by lilyoffandoms

Moodboards

☆ Bryce + the color blue

☆ Olivia + the color yellow

Edits

☆ Nyx edit

☆ Altas Ernhardt in Blue Edits

☆ Olivia, Merida, and Casey magazine edit

☆ Mal Mermaid Edit

Other Things

☆ Nyx + Nyssa friendship

☆ Hunt family birthday update

☆ Bryce + Keiki lunch note HC

☆ Nyx's skin color HC

☆ All my MC, OC, and LI birthdays

Asks

☆Nyssa x Daenarya Ask (18+)

☆ What flowers symbolize Nyx? What flowers is their favorite?

☆ Some HC about Nyx

☆ Nyx + Demiro

☆ Bryce x Olivia Blanket Fort HC

Gifts

☆ Alex Sketch

☆ Mal x Daenarya drabble and art

☆ Maiele x Daenarya neck kissing art

☆ Olivia x Blades Moodboard

☆ Thomas x Alex Coffee Shop Edit

☆ Mal Picrew Gift

☆ Nyx Aesthetic

☆ Trystan x Lilah drabble

[ne0nlightzz]

Characters/Fandoms I Write For

These are not all the characters I'll write for nor all the fandoms! Just some characters that I personally favor and would like to write about way more than some others! [this also includes what season of specific shows I'll write for. This will change and be updated quite a bit as I watch further into some shows and start to write for other characters and seasons]

This also includes what type of 'xReader's I'll write for!

Note: i keep saying throughout this post and this applies to every fandom i write for- ill write for other characters that aren't listed, so please if there's a character you'd like to see be written for and you don't see it on the list please just ask if I'll write for that character and ill let ya know!! it doesn't bother me and id rather people ask me rather then not!

Supernatural

Characters-

Dean Winchester

Sam Winchester

Castiel

Bobby

Seasons-

S.1

S.2

S.3

S.4

The Vampire Diaries/The Originals

Characters-

Damon Salvatore Stefan Salvatore Elijah Mikaelson

Klaus Mikaelson Kol Mikaelson Rebekah Mikaelson Marcel Gerard Lorenzo 'Enzo' Bonnie Bennett Tyler Lockwood Jeremy Gilbert Luke Parker Kai Parker

Seasons-

S.1 - S.8 [TVD] S.1- S.3 [The Originals]

Note: I'll write for practically all of TVD and most of The Originals. The characters in red are ones I'll write for but am less egar to write for if that makes sense. also if there is a specific character that you'd like written but isn't on this list please feel free to ask if I'll write for them! because trust me ill somewhat willingly write for most! (except for Matt. never ask me to write for Matt unless it's about him getting it by a car. This is mostly a joke so Matt fans don't kill me please-.)

The Lost Boys

Characters- David

Marko

Paul

Dwayne

Michael Emerson

Sam Emerson

note: is anyone even in this fandom anymore? im not sure but this old vamp movie is so bad but also so awesome-

TMNT 2012

Characters-

Donatello [Donnie]

Michelangelo [Mikey]

Leonardo [Leo]

Raphael [Raph]

Casy Jones

Seasons-

S.1

S.2

s.3

Note:

i do write for other characters like April O'Neil, but i prefer to mainly write for Casey and the turtles as i favor them and i think i can write them better then i could other characters (this doesn't mean i won't write other characters!)

tmnt masterlist [each gen ill write for and what characters ill write for in those gens cuz i can't add every tmnt gen ill write for here- but untill i make my tmnt master list please know ill also write for a bit of rottmnt,2003 and a bit of bayverse and mutant mayhem! ]

Marble Hornets

characters-

Tim Wright [+His alter ego-Masky]

Brian Thomas [+His alter ego-Hoodie]

Alex Karlie

Jay Merrick

Note:

i will also write both hoodie/brian and masky/tim in creepypasta context and plz know im still watching marble hornets because my attention span for stuff like that[or most stuff in general] is nonexistent so it takes me awhile to get through series and all that[im slowly getting through marble hornets and am learning more about it but its taking me 6 years no joke- also i do write Tim and Brian and their alter egos separately because in my head that just makes sense because i just imagine that there are very different behaviors in between the person and the alter ego if that makes any sense]

Creepypasta:

characters-

Ticci Toby/Tobias Rogers

X-Virus/Cody

BEN Drowned

Bloody Painter/Helen

The Puppeteer

Jeff the killer

Eyeless Jack

Note: plz ask for any other characters! these are just the ones i could think of off the top of my head! ill also write Masky/Tim and Hoodie/Brian in the creepypasta context too. im also sure ill end up editing and add onto this.

Invader Zim

Characters- Zim Dib Gir Gaz Tak

Seasons- S.1 S.2 note: ill write for s.1-the first haft of s.2 but not for the movie as i haven't watched it yet. ill also write aged up/feature au and maybe Zadar [plz don't kill me] besides that please ask for any relationships or characters.

Helluva Boss

Characters-

Fizzarolli [Fizz] Asmodeus[Ozzie] Blitzo Stolas Octivia Moxie Millie Luna Note: as i keep saying and this applies to every fandom i write for- ill write for other characters that aren't listed, so please if there's a character you'd like to see be written for and you don't see it on the list please just ask if I'll write for that character and ill let ya know!! it doesn't bother me and id rather people ask me rather then not!

IT [2017]

Richie Tozier Eddie Kaspbrack Bill Denbrough Beverly Marsh Henry Bowers Patrick Hocksetter Victor Criss Belch Huggins

Note: I will write for the rest of the Losers and other characters but these are just the ones id like to write for [bill is an eh actually-] and as ive said before characters in red are ones ill list and write for but am a bit less egar to write for. Ill also totally write for the bowers gang-

This list will continue to be updated as i remeber and get back into older fandoms and as i watch more of these shows/movies and such!! so again please feel free to ask about fandoms/shows/movies you dont see on this or any other list!! ill most likely make a a basic fandom masterlist that doesnt go into the characters ill write for as those will most likely just be other fandoms i that dont really need a list of characters!

also here is a short list of other fandoms/shows/movies ill write for but i felt dont really need a character list-

Interview With The Vampire The Black Phone Gravity Falls Lego Ninjago Sanders Sides FNAF/Aftons HTTYD The Owl House OHSHC Marvel/Spider man [Mainly Iron man or Spiderman because they are like my comfort characters- i also write for both the Tom Holland and Andrew Garfield Spiderman !!Not the actors but the character! ] Spider Verse Ask/ETC!

disclaimer: i do not own any of these chatacters, fandoms/shows/movies or images. all rights n all go to their respecful owners

[monsoonblooms12]

Moodboard Masterlist

Currently making content for: Mostly Choices with a bit of Harry Potter, Interactive Fiction and Random Aesthetics

Links: My Fanfic Masterlist I My sideblog exclusively for aesthetics: @noctilucentclouds​

Last Updated: 24th October, 2021

Moodboards

Day 11 of an edit a day - Luna Pagonis

Day 2 of an edit a day - Teal (Pooja, Lydia, Sienna & Margita)

Green is the colour of nature's heart : Margita Viblemo (For CMC 2021, Day 17)

Soulmates aren't just lovers: Vintage Ethan x Pooja Moodboard (For CFC 2021 Day 23 - Vintage)

A little bit of sweetness can draw out a whole lot of bitterness (Ethan x Pooja): Ver 1 I Ver 2 (For COC 2020 Day 22 - Chocolate)

Autumn is the Second Spring: Ethan x Pooja (For COC 2020 Day 7 - Nature)

Two Dolphins in a sea of sharks: Sienna & Pooja (For Day 6 of Sienna Trinh Appreciation Week)

Double Oh Tiny: Sienna (For Day 5 of Sienna Trinh Appreciation Week)

The Bestest Best Friend: Sienna (For Day 4 of Sienna Trinh Appreciation Week)

Baking Magic: Sienna (For Day 3 of Sienna Trinh Appreciation Week)

Open Heart f!MC Moodboards, Part 1 I Part 2

Pooja Sharma: Dark Academia

Character Posters

Dr Pooja Sharma

Dr Ethan Ramsey

Dr Bryce Lahela

Dr Jackie Varma

Pantone Colour Palette Series

Dr Ethan Ramsey - Snow Blue

GIF Edits

Pooja x Ethan: Their Story

Bryce x Lydia: Nothing Less than Forever

Jackie x Margita: You & Me

Alex x Mark: You’re my person

Song Edits, Polaroids & Others

Gimme the Pose (Ethan, Pooja, Alex and Mark) - Day 10 of an edit a day

Beyond the Horizon: Bryce x Lydia - Day 8 of an edit a day

Detectives by Chance, Book Cover-ish

Black & White Part 1: Ethan x Pooja (For CFC 2021 Day 26 - Lyric)

Black & White Part 2: Alex x Mark (For CFC 2021 Day 26 - Lyric)

A look inside Pooja's Phone (As a part of the TPL series)

A look inside Alekhya's Phone (As a part of the TPL series)

OPH LI Headers

When Always became Forever: Ethan x Pooja, Wedding at a glance (For the Newlywed Games)

Pooja x Ethan: Relationship at a glance

For Others

Birthdays and other celebrations

He loved her with all his five senses: Ethan x Marchia

Dr Rebecca Lao & Dr Odette Hall

Moodboard for OHFFs 1st anniversary celebrations

Bryce Lahela x Casey Valentine

Dr Kaavya Elina Valentine

Dr Alessia Rossi

Giveaway

Ethan x Aparna: Like the Shoreline & the Sea

Grand Mentor Naveen Banerji

Bryce Lahela: The Golden Boy

Pairing edit asks/requests

I told the sunsets about you: Ethan x Olivia

My heart writes letters to yours in blue ink: Ethan x Jill

Memories etched in Black & White: Ethan x Josie

A love as serene as the pastel blue sky: Ethan x Anna

I love the glimmer of pink glitter in your eyes: Ethan x Meera

Paint us in honey gold: Ethan x Lilac

You give me butterflies: Ethan x Victoria

Love me like you do: Ethan x Anj

Us is beautiful: Ethan x Natalie

Pour Toujours: Tobias x Camila

Togetherness: Tobias x Aria

Milestones of a life together: Ethan x MC

Yeh Dooriyan: Ethan x Meera (Lockscreens)

Character Edit asks/requests

Chase Kallenberg: OPH m!MC

Pairing moodboard asks/requests

Worlds change when eyes meet: Ethan x Ellie

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE: Ethan x Evelyn

The warmest light is your body: Ethan x Noelle

Everything carries me to you: Ethan x Anastasia

Perfect: Ethan x Alishka

Life as Parents: Ethan x Anj

My love is yours if you are willing to take it: Ethan x Olivia

Their Wedding: Ethan x Anj

The start of something new: Bryce x Alessia (based on this)

I think you are the moon: Adrian x Evelyn

Ethan x Anj in Sage Green

Love slap raid chain asks

Eve Valentine

Lilac Allende

Alessia Rossi

Kaavya Valentine

Anna Grace

Arielle Valentine

Casey Valentine

Arundhati Kulkarni

Character posters

Ethan x Alessia

Arundhati x Ethan

Alessia x Bryce

Leah Garcia

Lily Grey

Serena Harlow

Lana Brooks

Brooke Spiers

Ethan x MC

Meredith Grey

Victoria Clarke

Alishka Roy

Cassie Valentine

Meera Bose

Marchia Bisognin

Chiara Ray

Liam Rys

Ellie Shepherd

Diana Ramirez

Genevieve McClure

Anna Valentine

Olivia Valentine

Eiselee Blake

Evelyn Long

Anj Valentine

Abigail Chacko

Natalie Cusack

Lilac Allende

Fanfic writers appreciation

Alishka x Ethan

Lilac x Ethan

Diana x Ethan

Meera x Ethan

Meredith x Ethan

Genevieve x Ethan

Brooke x Ethan

Chiara x Ethan

Evelyn x Ethan

Marchia x Ethan

Natalie x Ethan

Olivia x Ethan

Anj x Ethan

Alessia x Bryce

Abigail x Ethan

Evelyn x Adrian

Lana x Ethan

Leah x Ethan

Anna x Ethan

Josie x Ethan

Celia x Ethan

Alyssa x Ethan

Ellie x Ethan

Serena x Ethan

Victoria x Ethan

Cassie x Ethan

Arundhati x Ethan

Christmas 2020

Ethan Ramsey x Casey Valentine

Ethan Ramsey x Alessia Rossi

Ethan Ramsey x Eve Valentine

Ethan Ramsey x Maeve Harlow

Ethan Ramsey x Arielle Valentine

Ethan Ramsey x Denise Hogan

Ethan Ramsey x Kaavya Valentine

Bryce Lahela x Casey Valentine

Ethan Ramsey x Leah Garcia

Ethan Ramsey x Abigail Chacko

Ethan Ramsey x Lana Brooks

Ethan Ramsey x Lilac Allende

Ethan Ramsey x Valerie Valentine

Ethan Ramsey x f!MC

Gift Exchange 2020

Bryce Lahela x Iros Valentine

Ethan Ramsey x Arundhati Kulkarni: Part 1 I Part 2

Random

Unquenched, Unquenchable (Teaser to @/nikki-2406's OPH x Vampires crossover fic)

Valerie Valentine X Ethan Ramsey (a.k.a my OTP#2)

By Others

Pooja Sharma GIF by @a-crepusculo

Pooja Sharma Wallpaper by @happiness21

Pooja x Ethan Moodboard by @adiehardfan

You're my favourite person: Ethan x Pooja by @parkbarks

Dr Pooja Sharma for Fanfic Writers Appreciation Day by @aestheticartsx

Ethan x Pooja moodboard by @aestheticartsx

Pooja Sharma Moodboard by @mysticaurathings

Ethan x Pooja Moodboard by @udishaman

Ethan x Pooja Moodboard by @aestheticartsx

Ethan x Pooja Moodboard by @jamespotterthefirst

Moodboards

TRR MC (My 1st moodboard ever hshksa)

If you can stand, you can fight: Olivia Nevrakis

The time is always right to do what is right: King Liam

But first, Whiskey: Drake Walker

Dance like nobody's watching: Maxwell Beaumont

Why walk, when you can dance: Maxwell Beaumont

Modesty is the highest elegance: Hana Lee

A cup of tea solves everything: Hana Lee

The pets of TRR

Happiness is not in money, but in shopping: Liam x Odette (For COC 2020 Day 27 - Shopping)

How sweet it is to be love by you: Liam x Odette (For CFC 2021 Day 23 - Vintage)

Day 2 of an edit a day - Teal (Odette)

Day 5 of an edit a day - Cuteness-An aesthetic (TRR Pets)

Social Media Edits

Day 6: Sparkle - Odette x Liam (Picta Edit)

Chapter wise moodboard series (Liam x MC)

TRR Book 1

Adventure Awaits: Chapter 1

Royalty has a magic of its own: Chapter 2

And so it begins: Chapter 3

The future is an ever-shifting maze of possibilities until it becomes the present: Chapter 4

Song Edits

Love Story: Liam x Odette - Day 18 of an edit a day

Christmas 2020:

Royal Soul: Liam Rys x Odette Dawson

You're like really pretty: Liam Rys x Odette Dawson

Fanfic writers appreciation:

Liam x Riley

Tumblr Hug asks:

Odette Dawson

Giveaway:

Meet Jessica Garcia

Love of Eternities: Jessica x Liam

King Liam in Dark Academia

You're such a perfect little arrangement of atoms: Liam x Odette

The colours of King Liam

Liam x Riley: Valtoria

Liam x Riley: Proposal

Pairing edit asks/requests:

King Liam Rys x MC

Best Buds? Mayhaps, Mayhaps Not: Maxwell & Drake

Moodboard asks/requests:

King Liam as a Dad

Moodboards:

Kate O' Malley

Gife Exchange 2020:

Veil of Secrets: The Story

Character Posters & Book Aesthetics:

Ride or Die: The Story (For RoDAW 2021 Day 7 - Wild Card)

How strange to dream of you, even when I am wide awake: Mona (For RoDAW 2021 Day 3 - Mona)

You have a place in my heart no one else ever could have: Colt Kaneko (For RoDAW 2021 Day 2 - Colt)

Perhaps we’re wishing for each other upon the same star: Logan (For RoDAW 2021 Day 1 - Logan)

Character Posters:

Rhosyn Day I Luz Mendez

Eiko Matsunaga | Thomas Mendez

Levi Schuler | Alma Velasco

Lelia Day

Giveaway Prizes:

Thomas Hunt (RCD)

Samuel Dalton (TNA)

Love Slap Raid Chain Moodboards:

Green Aesthetics

Teal Aesthetics

Birthdays & Other Celebrations:

Maia Wiseman

Alex Spencer x Thomas Hunt

Gift Exchange 2020

Harry Potter: The Books

House Slytherin

House Ravenclaw

House Hufflepuff

House Gryffindor

Christmas 2020

Taylor Swift: Evermore

[lilyoffandoms]

Choices Masterlist II

Please be aware of warnings and tags on individual fics before reading. Some contain tw and cw and others are nsft. Be responsible for your space and well being please.

Complete Masterlist here.

Fics are divided by book and then character and beneath each character are listed oldest to newest. Choices Masterlist I can be found here.

MC Monday

MC Monday #25 - Edit (Bryce x Kyrie)

MC Monday #25 - Edit (Ethan x Merida)

MC Monday # 32 (Tryil x Maiele)

Random/Multiple Pairing Drabbles

Kiss Starter Drabble (Mal x Daenarya for @storyofmychoices and Colt x Freya for @nessverse)

Game Night (RDC Chadley x BB Lily) for anon

Opposing Paths (Guinevere)

A Courtesan of Rome

Syphax

Ides of March (Arin x Syphax)

Crimes of Passion

Trystan Thorne

Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

Chapter 13 Missing Scene (Trystan x Gabriel)

Pride (Trystan x Gabriel)

True Crimes (Trystan x Gabriel)

Detective Noir (Trystan x Noel) for @hydn-jpg

Day 1: First Kiss (Trystan x Gabriel)

Day 3: Kitchen, Music, Date (Trystan x Gabriel)

Day 6: Blackout (Trystan x Gabriel)

Mistletoe (Trystan x Gabriel)

Day 11: Dancing (Trystan x Gabriel)

Valentine (Trystan x Gabriel)

Romantic? (Trystan x Gabriel)

WTF (Trystan x Gabriel)

The Crown & The Flame

Kenna Rys

Drabble (Kenna x Raydan)

Drabble (Kenna x Val)

The Cursed Heart

Kieran

Of Monsters & Hearts (Kieran x Elam) for anon

Spring Secrets (Kieran x Elam) for anon

Garden (Kieran x Elam)

Desire & Decorum

Prince Hamid

AU Drabble (Hamid x Daphne) for @lorirwritesfanfic

Guinevere

Love Triangle

Opposing Paths (Artura x Guinevere, Lancelot x Guinevere)

Regret (Arthur x Guinevere, Lancelot x Guinevere)

Lancelot du Lac

Bruise (Lancelot x Guinevere)

Trust Me (Lancelot x Guinevere)

Immortal Desires

Cassius Harlow

Hot Chocolate (Cas x Saini) for aallotarenunelma

Laws of Attraction

Gabriel Ricci

Day 7: Small Town, Bar, Jukebox (Gabe x Lex)

Open Heart

Dr. Byrce Lahela

Favorite Valentine (Bryce & Keiki) for peonierose

Doctor. Doctor. (Bryce x Kyrie)

Early Morning (Bryce x Kyrie)

Open Heart AU (Bryce x Luna) for @peonierose

Drabble (Bryce x Jensen) for mydemonsdrivealimo

Dr. Ethan Ramsey

MMM: Fight For It (Ethan x Merida)

Mob AU (Ethan x Merida)

Others

Ask Prompt (Bryce x Kyrie/Ethan x Merida)

Prompt (Tobias x Casey) for @jerzwriter

Closet or Car? (Tobias x Casey, Bryce x Olivia, Ethan x Merida) for jerzwriter

Nightbound

Nik Ryder

Royal/Commoner AU (Nik x Alex) for @ladylamrian

Meet the Parent (Nik x Alex) for ladylamrian

Drabble (Nik x Alex) for ladylamrian

The Phantom Agent

Rowan Salazar

Day 18: Adrenaline (Rowan x Elliot)

Red Carpet Diaries

Matt Rodriquez

Dia de Muertos (Matt x Azusa) for @laniquelovewrites

Seth Levine

Daducation (Seth x Kashish) for @drakewaker04

Teja Desai

Wedding Traditions (Teja x Celeste) for @incorrect-your-lie-in-april

Thomas Hunt

Drabble (Thomas x Ava)

Iowa (Thomas x Alex) for storyofmychoices

Victoria Fontaine

Lights (Victoria x Janey) for @pbchoices

Ride or Die

Others

Mofongo (Ashtyn & Freya)

The Royal Everything

Hana

Meet the Sibling (Hana x Eclipsa) for noesapphic

[utterlyinevitable]

Your headcanons are wonderful! How about MC and Ethan celebrating his 40th? Officially making him a grumpy old man 👴

Ethan x MC Celebrating His 40th Birthday 

Ethan hates birthdays and would be adamant on not celebrating. 

MC would want to throw a big bash but would respect his wishes when, on the 10th time she asked him if he definitely did not want to do something special, he used his authoritative voice to completely squash the notion. 

So she settles on something just for them at his place. 

This year Ethan is four decades old. That’s still an entire decade older than MC. 

Everything she’s done, every milestone she’s had, he’s done years before. 

That sparked an idea. 

Four mini moments to celebrate staples of their past. Every room in the apartment set to represent a stage of his life. Things they loved when they were younger and could experience together. 

She had Alan bring some old things and photos from Ethan’s childhood over and help set up. 

The first moment representing his first 10 years - his youth. Board games and teddy bears and classic rock Alan loved and always had playing through the radio. All set up in the spare bedroom. 

Alan told her a story about a time Ethan convinced other kids worms were magic if eaten. She told him the time she made her neighbor eat black ants just because she was curious of their taste. So it was time for payback - for both of them.

She made little worm in mud dessert cups for them to snack on while they played Operation. 

Ethan thought it was absolutely ridiculous but played along with her plans when he realized how much effort she and his dad put into the evening. 

And the photos lined up on the dresser - one from every birthday those first ten years. This wasn’t any other birthday.

Ethan knew that day’s before.    

The second cultivated moment was for his teen years layed out in their bedroom. 

Classical music and party games of truth or dare and spin the bottle. Red solo cups filled with a MC-styled concoction. The walls lined with more photos of Ethan on his birthday and all his old awards and basketball jersey scattered across every single surface. 

Alan told her stories of how he was always so studious and never out of line, but did have a hankering for carefully planned schemes. 

So it was time for him to do what teens do and be a little reckless. Ethan refused to play her little party game. He also tried one sip of the vile thing she called jungle juice. She vehemently refused to move onto the next activity until they did one thing every teenager does - 7 minutes in heaven. 

In one swift motion Ethan picked her up and carried her into their walk in closet. Seven minutes turned into fifteen and she almost threw away the rest of the night for a few more minutes in heaven. 

The next moment for his twenties. 

This was the most difficult one as Alan didn’t know much about Ethan’s life besides his schoolwork and the small bits of information he’d share when he’d come home on breaks.  

All either of them knew of Ethan’s 20s was school. MC did remember stories of Tobias and leaned into that. 

She had rub on tattoos on standby. and a scavenger hunt to find one of the gifts she got him - just five little clues that led him to the gift hiding in the hallway closet. 

Ethan could not believe the final clue - he let out a chortle as he read the fine script. MC eyed him, “Fess up. Did you go to closets to make out or cry?”

Ethan shook his head and kissed her. 

She didn’t believe him, but she gave him the present anyway. 

His thirties were all over the open planned living and dining room. 

A fancy dinner catered by their favorite chef and taken by the biggest window with the best view. 

MC wanted to make him feel on top of the world. This was all for him. The entire evening may not have been the way he probably wanted things but it surely would end that way. 

And then there was the last moment - for the future. MC didn’t plan this one. Ethan did. Every little rewrite of the past this evening made him more sure than anything.

“There’s one thing I’m glad I’ve held off on and am looking forward to in my 40s”

“What’s that?”

He reached his hand across the table for hers, “Being with you.”

“Oh no. The dementias set in already. Darling, it’s me Rebecca. We’ve been together for three years. Do you know where you are?”

Ethan rolled his eyes, “Don’t ruin the moment, Rookie.”

She motioned her hand for him to continue.

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Another song began to play through the speakers and they stood to dance. Her head on his chest and his arms enveloped around her. Minutes passed as they swayed together, the glow of Boston shining in and the music lulling them further into serenity. 

Ethan broke the silence; 

“I’m thinking of buying a house..”

________________________________________

Masterlist

Perma:

@rookiemarsswiftie @lucy-268 @binny1985 @thegreentwin @queencarb @danijimenezv @starrystarrytrouble @terrm9 @interobanginyourmom @adrex04 @maurine07 @mercury84choices @schnitzelbutterfingers @theeccentricbibliophile @wingedhairstylemusicweasel @kaavyaethanramsey @mvalentine @rookie-ramsey @drariellevalentine @lifeaskim @otherworldlypresents @therookie @aylaramseycarrera @angela8754 @fireycookie @stateofgracious @missmiimiie​ @uneravine

Ethan:

@udishaman @honeyandsunfl0wers @hutchereverlark23 @ohchoices @dulceghernandez @blossomanarchy @claredal424 @caseyvalentineramsey @rookieoh @openheartthot @senseofduties @lilyvalentine @tsrookie @kalogh @aworldoffandoms @takemyopenheart @casey-v @ramseyandrys @peaceinmidstofchaos @ethanramseylover @ramseyreader  @a-crepusculo @aarisa-frost @shanzay44

[anotherbeingsworld]

Flashlight

Pairing: Bryce Lahela x F!MC (Casey Valentine)

Book: Open Heart: Third Year

Rating: General/Fluff

A/N: Helloooo, I am back into writing (somehow?) !!! This idea has been in my head for soooo long ever since the song Flashlight played and I can't stop thinking about it - and today, I finally finished it! Its a rewrite but with a twist, something about the last diamond scene with bryce - feels so :((( , so this happens and I hope all of you enjoy it! I might do another one tomorrow, but we will see! Enjoyyyy and, I hope you all have a good day! 💖💖💖

/Tags under the cut!

MASTERLIST

I got all I need when I got you and I

I look around me and see a sweet life

I'm stuck in the dark but you're my flashlight

You're getting me, getting me through the night

Can't stop my heart when you shinin' in my eyes

I can't lie, it's a sweet life

I'm stuck in the dark but you're my flashlight

You're getting me, getting me through the night.

-

It seems to be a normal day, as she bumped into him at the hospital gym during the early hours of the day. He looks confident, excited, and happy – as she wished him luck with a sealed kiss before going their separate ways for the day.

The day went by in a breeze, as the diagnostics team managed to bond with Tobias as they formed a plan against Leland. Casey feels satisfied with the situation as she emerges from the lab, to be met with a dazed-looking Bryce who is hovering over the nurses' station. He looked worried, nervous as the confident façade from this morning was nowhere in sight.

She makes her way to him and asked.

“Hey, are you alright?”

He seemed startled by the sudden greeting, replying to her question with a bit of uncertainty which she knows all too well. He has done something – which has such a not good outcome from the expression that was plastered on his face.

“What? Oh, Casey – um, hi! I’m great…nothing wrong here.” He replies before turning away from her, suddenly facing the nurses' station as Casey raised an eyebrow was unconvinced by the whole act. She moves a few steps forward, as they were aligned – and his hands are shaking.

With a worried tone in her voice, she places her hand on top of his arm in an attempt to calm him down.

“Bryce, take a deep breath.”

He calms himself down slowly, taking a few deep breaths as the visible movement from his hands started to disappear. He looks around and immediately takes her hand in his moving away from the nursing station into somewhere private – an empty patient room.

She closes the door, as Bryce started to looked worried once more. Somehow, an expression that can be seen behind closed doors, somehow a vulnerability that can be seen through him at that moment. Casey moves on forward, taking his hand in hers giving it a squeeze of comfort.

After a few silent moments, she breaks the silence.

“Talk to me Bryce, what happened?” Her voice was soft as silk as he took a deep breath before revealing the situation her way.

“I….” There was hesitation, it wasn’t the Bryce that she saw this morning. It was something much deeper than that. She steps forward, as his head falls in shame.

She places a hand on his cheek, green eyes meeting his – as he lets it out.

“I messed up Casey. My hand slipped, I…nicked the arterial wall, and…there was blood. Everywhere…” His voice stops, somehow he felt himself slowly tearing up before he continues.

She didn’t say a word, as she places an arm around him – giving him the comfort needed he continues.

“How was the patient, Bryce?” She asked slowly, as he regained his composure after a while.

“The team stepped up, and thankfully – but, I froze today. Completely, it feels like the moment was flashed upon my eyes and there is nothing I can do about it. I froze Casey.” He paused before a sigh escaped his lips.

“The arterial wall was weak, and the blood..it was too fast…it all went blank. If the intern assisting the surgery didn’t step up when he did…I might have lost the patient today.” He buried his head in the crook of her neck, as they sat down on the empty bed, as she held him close. He had held her during her darkest days, and now it's her turn upon returning the favor. She places a kiss on his head before speaking up.

“Bryce, it’s okay; we are humans after all. Please don’t be too hard on yourself.”

“I can’t – I was responsible as the attending requested me for this surgery. I..I just, never felt this unsure of myself. After leaving home years ago, I thought the feeling has left me for good.”

Suddenly, both of their pagers beep at the same time – as they both stood up from the bed. Bryce still somehow looked quite somber, as Casey looks at him with a worried expression.

“Are you going to be okay?”

He places a small smile, a fake smile that she knows too damn well, and said,

“Don’t worry, I think I’ll be fine…I just need to get my mind off of this.” He replies and leaving a kiss on her cheek before he disappears out of the room as Casey started to make her way again to the patient’s room somehow still worried about Bryce.

-

At the end of the day, he was seen waiting for her at the entrance. Somehow, he looks a bit better than before – his smile was wide, but it doesn’t quite reach the eyes, as Casey scoots forward kissing him.

“So, where are we heading?” He asked as they walked out of the hospital doors.

“It’s a surprise.” She winks, as they walked excitedly to this secret destination.

After a few train rides later, they both arrived at a suburb area away from Boston. Away from Edenbrook, away from everything.

“Welcome, to our stay for the night.” She gestures upon the area, as it was somewhere a mystery to him yet, the sounds of the waves bring comfort his way.

“I know this is quite a huge surprise, I feel like – we needed some time away and I figured I need to get away from the diagnostics team as the whole issue is starting to give me a headache,” Casey states as she was met with a smiling Bryce, who looks genuinely happy for the day.

He pulls her into a hug, the first time that day – he looked calm, happy even. He feels much calmer inside, and she smiles upon the sight as they explore the place.

As the night falls, they sat together at the beach – which was an unexpected spot for the day for both of them makes him wonder.

“I gotta ask, how did you arrange this?” He asked genuinely curious about her smart thinking.

She lets out a chuckle before her eyes fall upon the waves.

“I used to come here before, and it was one of my cousins' homes and he was kind enough to let us stay for the night. I thought about bringing it up, so maybe we could take a day or two away from Boston – but, our daily work life said no. So, I made a couple of phone calls – and we have the place for the day.”

He smiles,

“Tell your cousin, I appreciate it a lot.”

“Don’t worry, he knows.” She smiles knowingly, as the wind started to blow giving a chill for the both of them. He places an arm around her, as the blanket covered them both from the chilling night.

The stars above were shining brightly, as the waves were crashing. It was a calming night for the both of them.

“How are you feeling Bryce?” She asked, with a bit of concern in her voice.

“I…feel a bit better being here. And, after I was dismissed – I did some reflecting, and I know we make mistakes, but…it feels weird to be making them especially with something we are so familiar with.” He states with a questionable tone in his voice.

“It somehow feels like med school again right? It’s the moment where we thought we knew better, but…at the end of the day, we are only human Bryce. So, when tomorrow comes – we can try again. Medicine, it's not an easy road – my mom warned me a million times before I submitted my college applications and the time where young Casey yelled in her dorm-room about a mistake on sutures! We will make mistakes, no matter how good we are. All the doctors before us even the famous ones misdiagnose, some even make the simplest medical mistakes an intern could make because we are human.”

“Bryce Lahela, we are human and imperfect. You will screw up a couple of surgeries, I almost lose my medical license. That’s the proof, we are imperfect humans, but to get where we want to be; the mistakes we make are a part of who we are. You are Bryce Lahela because of your victories, your mistakes. I’m Casey Valentine due to my victories and mistakes as well. You are a bright light to this world, don’t let one surgery dim you down. We just gotta fight in a different way?” She displays an all-knowing smile at him a call-back of their conversation years ago.

“We will fight it in a different way.” He says happily, somehow finally convinced. The smile on his face was worth it in the end, as they spend the night together – moments of running around the beach, quizzing Casey for her upcoming medical boards, and a moment alone with one another.

The night was magical, filled with insight and many new memories as they were each other’s flashlight – getting each other through the night, always there through thick and thin. As their small getaway ends, Bryce returns to the hospital with new renowned strength as the reminder was tattooed in both of his heart and mind.

THE END.

Tags:  @bitchloveskcbaseball , @mvalentine , @storyofmychoices , @princess-geek , @lahellacute ,   @annekebbphotography , @mrsbhandari , @dcbbw , @choicessa , @fantasyoverreality98 , @baltersome , @ofpixelsandscribbles , @thundergom @starrystarrytrouble ,  @kelseaaa  , @choicesficwriterscreations  , @lalizah , @drethanramslay , @eleanorbloom , @openheartfanfics , @brycesgirl  ,  @freckles-spangledvampire , @agentnolastname , @robintora , @adriansbiss , @appiomofchoice , @bratzlahela (comment if you want to be tagged or removed 💜💜)

[jerzwriter]

This series tells the story of how Tobias and Casey's second child, Brooke Vivian Carrick, came to be. In this third part, the first trimester is behind them, and the happy couple spreads the news—first to their two-year-old daughter, Samantha, and then to their friends.

Book: Open Heart (Post Series) Pairing: Tobias x Casey Carrick (F!MC) Characters: Samantha Carrick (F!OC), Ethan Ramsey, Jackie Varma, Sienna Trinh, Aurora Emery, Bryce Lahella, Jordan Carrick (M!OC) Rating: Teen Words: Part 1: 685 / Part 2: 1,009 Summary: See above. A/N: I have artwork for this series, and I hoped to have it posted by yesterday (August 30th is Brooke Vivian Carrick's birthday in my little world). But my real life world interfered, so it's coming, but a little later. lol Participating in @choicesaugustchallenge Day 7 (Sunshine) and Day 11 Barbeque.

Series Masterlist Tobias x Casey Masterlist Full Masterlist

“We’ve got to tell her,” Casey insisted. Her second pregnancy was not at all like her first. The first time, she couldn't wait for her 'bump' to show, and it seemed to take forever. This time, she swore it appeared just after the two little lines formed on the pregnancy test. Her two-year-old daughter, Samantha, had already announced, “Mommy is big now,” to everyone they knew.

“Yeah, I suppose you’re right,” Tobias agreed. “I think my Mom has been trying to hold back her excitement a little since Sammy doesn’t know yet."

Casey’s eyes went wide. “Wait a second. You think that your Mom... your over the top Mom... your I’m sending an interior decorator over to design the new nursery, even though you just ended your first trimester, and the party planner wants to talk to you about the baby’s first birthday party Mom... has been holding back?  If that’s the case, we may want to reconsider telling Sammy... ever."

“Come on,” Tobias smiled. “You know she’s only going to get worse regardless. Let’s let Sammy in on the news. Then we have six months to help her prepare for her little sister coming home.”

“Sister or brother,” Casey reminded.

But Tobias just shrugged. “Yeah, whatever." He had no doubt they were having another little girl.

It was a quiet afternoon at home, sunshine pouring in their living room window when they decided to share the news with Samantha. All of Sammy’s favorite stuffed toys were arranged on the living room floor, and the toddler’s curls bounced as she played and danced with them. Her contagious giggle echoed throughout the house when Daddy made her teddy bear break dance.

Casey’s heart warmed at the sight of them. Their lives had changed drastically over the past few years, but they wouldn’t have had it any other way. She looked at Tobias, and he nodded. It was time.

"Sammy," she said gently. "Mommy and Daddy have something exciting to tell you."

Sammy looked up with wide eyes, her little hands clutching her teddy bear. "What, Mommy?"

Tobias reached out and took the little one’s hand. "You're going to be a big sister, sweetheart.”

“Yep,” Casey smiled, cuddling close to Tobias. “Mommy’s growing a new baby in her belly.”

Sammy blinked, her expression pensive as she took in the news. She looked between her parents, then pointed to Casey’s belly. “In there?” she asked.

“Yep. That’s why Mommy's getting bigger,” Casey smiled. “It’s the baby growing in me.”

“Oh,” Sammy said, turning back to her teddy bear. "That's nice.”

Tobias and Casey shot each other an amused look. Sammy was more excited than this when they told her they were ordering pizza.  

“Sammy,” Casey chuckled softly. "Do you know what this means, sweetie?"

Sammy looked up again, her big brown eyes curious. "More toys?"

Tobias laughed, pulling her into his lap. "It means you'll have a little sister to play with all the time."

Casey playfully elbowed Tobias. “A brother or a sister!” She corrected. “We don’t know yet.”

Casey held back a laugh as Tobias once again muttered, “Whatever,” under his breath.

"Does Pietro know?" Sammy asked.

Tobias pulled the precocious child onto his lap and smiled. "We'll tell him as soon as he's done with his nap," he said.

"Okay. We play now, Daddy?”

Casey leaned in to kiss Tobias on the cheek, both amused with their daughter’s nonchalant reaction.

"Of course we can, sweetheart," Tobias replied. “And what do you think about ordering pizza to celebrate?”

“PIZZA!” Sammy screeched, jumping to her feet. Her little body began dancing to music no one else could hear. “Yes! Yes! Pizza! Daddy, we order pizza now!"

“Right now," Casey laughed, pulling out her phone to order. As she waited for them to answer, she turned to Tobias with a smile. "Well, now we know what to do when we bring the baby home."

“What's that? Order pizza,” he smiled.

“Nope, dress her up as a slice of pepperoni.” Casey grinned.

Tobias's eyes crinkled as his grin widened; all the joy he was feeling sparkled in his eyes. “You said her,” he whispered with a satisfied grin.

Casey placed a hand on her little bump, “Well, see," she chuckled. "But for now, let’s order the pizza!”

Telling their friends:

The following Saturday found Tobias in his happy place, telling stories and holding court as he worked the grill in their cozy Boston backyard. Tobias and Casey’s barbeques had become a staple in their friends’ lives, but they hadn’t hosted many in the past couple of months, making this one feel even more special.  

Casey sat at the table with her friends, Jackie, Sienna, and Aurora, pouring each of them a glass of delicious virgin Sangria, but Jackie appeared to take offense.

“Virgin? In this house?” she teased.

Tobias glanced at Casey over his shoulder with a grin. “I told you," he winked at his wife. "Jackie! There's wine in the cellar; feel free to spice it up."

With a playful huff, Jackie fetched a bottle of Pinot Noir and liberally topped off everyone’s glasses. When she reached Casey, however, Casey placed a hand over her glass.

“I’m good,” Casey smiled as her friends exchanged curious glances.

Tobias turned the last steak over, pleased with how perfectly they were coming along. He loved having the grill to himself today. The mere mention of Ethan's goddaughter, Sammy, bonding more with her uncles Jordan and Bryce had Ethan scurrying over to join the trio on a blanket on the lawn. It was a rare victory for Tobias in their ongoing rivalry over who was the true king of the grill.

After the food had been served and everyone’s bellies were full. Bryce mentioned something about dessert, which was met with groans and a napkin tossed his way.

“I think we should let the food settle before we move on to that,” Casey smiled. “I need to make some room to properly enjoy Sienna’s brownies.”

Tobias caught Casey’s eye, and they shared a conspiratorial smile. Taking her hand, he cleared his throat to capture their friend's attention. “Casey and I actually have a way to pass the time. We have an announcement to make."

“I’m pregnant,” Casey beamed. “We’re having another baby.”

Jackie smirked, recalling a conversation from a few months back. “Well, it didn’t take you long, did it, Carrick?”

Tobias turned to her with a grin. “Was there ever any doubt?”

As the guys shook Tobias’s hand and bro-hugs were had, Casey could barely peel Sienna off of her while Aurora rolled her eyes and shooed Sienna away to give everyone a turn.

“So, baby number two,” Aurora giggled. “Looks like you’re well on your way.”

“On my way?” Casey asked, laughing. “On my way to what?”

“Oh, don’t pretend you don’t remember,” Aurora said with a grin. “That day when we first met Tobias at the deli. You don’t remember what you said on the walk home?”

Casey blushed, hiding her face as Tobias jumped in. “Oh, she remembers.”

“Do we really have to revisit that?” Casey pleaded.

“Sure do!” Aurora grinned, turning to face the others. “If you think trying to save a man from dying was enough to keep these two from falling into lust at first sight, you’d be wrong! They were all but salivating over each other. It was just so... them! Then, on the walk home, Casey's going on and on about how hot he was and how she was going to have his first six children - or something like that."

“Casey!” Sienna chuckled.

“What?” Casey blushed. “He’s hot. But to make things worse, I said that just as Mr. Big Ego over here rolled up in his Jaguar. I prayed he didn’t hear, but on one of our first dates, I told him I always wondered if he had…”

“And I was all too happy to let her know I did,” Tobias finished, chuckling. “I just wasn’t sure who the lucky bastard was. I'm sure I don't need to tell you that I was more than pleased to know it was me.”

Ethan groaned, dragging a hand over his face as everyone laughed. “A classic Carrick beginning.”

“So, apparently, Casey was prophetic,” Jordan laughed.

“Not quite,” she corrected. “Because, as Aurora said on that day, there’s no way I’m having anyone’s six kids. Two will be just fine."

“Honey,” Tobias whined playfully. “Come on, you know I always said we should make our own softball team.”

“Keep dreaming, babe.”

“Yeah,” Jordan winked. “Practice makes perfect, big bro, but maybe stick to the practice part.”

“Please, I think he knows that," Jackie teased. "If not, the world would have already been overrun with little Carrick spawns before Casey even came along."

“Yeah, and then these two would be adding dozens more,” Sienna chuckled.

“Guys!” Ethan said, exasperated. “They just announced they’re having a baby. Do we really have to go there?”

“What’s wrong, Ramsey?” Bryce laughed. “Does the world-renowned doctor need a refresher on where babies come from?”

Ethan pulled a twenty-dollar bill out from his pocket and threw it on the table with a sigh.

Tobias raised an eyebrow. “What’s that for?”

“Baby Carrick #2’s therapy fund. I’ve already put a decent amount in Sammy’s account, but with you two as parents, this little one is going to need it, too.”

The yard was filled with the hum of friends laughing in agreement, reaching for their wallets and purses to add to the growing pile.

“You guys are too much,” Casey laughed. “Our little ones are very lucky to have us as parents – and all of you as their family, too.”

“You got that right,” Bryce said, giving Casey a congratulatory kiss on the cheek. “Everyone, raise your glasses! To Tobias and Casey - congratulations on your first planned pregnancy. We wish you all the best.”

“Bryce!” Casey laughed, giving him a playful shove.

As night fell and the fairy lights flickered on, casting a warm glow over their little urban oasis, the backyard buzzed with well wishes and joy. Sammy had dozed off in her playpen, with her protective cat Pietro by her side. For now, the little one had no idea what all the excitement was about, but for everyone else, it was the perfect end to a perfect day.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

[jerzwriter]

Mostly Pleasant Surprises Fanart

It only took me three years of writing for my beloved Tobias & Casey to share how they finally got together and stayed there! That moment had to be capped off with a commission, and that commission had to be by @/artbyainna (IG) who, of course, captured it perfectly!

This wasn't their first kiss, it wasn't even their first attempt at dating, but it was just after the kiss that sealed the deal for the rest of their lives. ❤️

Side note: I gave Ainna the vision and told her to do her thing. I did not ask for Tobias's hand on her butt, but OMG how perfect is that. She said it just felt right! lol So I incorporated it into their HC. The butt grab is now part of their official lore, and I LOVE Ainna for it! lol

Mostly Pleasant Surprises MasterlistTobias x Casey MasterlistMy Full Masterlist

@openheartfanart @choicesficwriterscreations

Participating in @choicesmaychallenge24 Passion, Celebration &

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[jerzwriter]

OK, it took a little over two months, but I actually finished a fic request list, and as someone with far too many items in my inbox, I'm proud of this! lol What better way to end than with "One Bed Fic Prompts" than with Merida, Olivia, and Casey on a road trip? II hope you enjoy it!

Book: Open Heart Pairings: Ethan x Merida (MC); Bryce x Oliva (F!OC); Tobias x Casey (F!MC) Rating: Teen Trope: There's Just One Bed! Words: 1,175 Summary: Merida, Olivia, and Casey's weekend adventure is off to a rainy start, but they always manage to find their own sunshine.

A/N: Based on the prompts below from @storyofmychoices. Also, participating in @choicesaugustchallenge Prompt 14 - Road Trip. Merida belongs to the amazing @lilyoffandoms and Olivia belongs to the wonderful @storyofmychoices. It was fun to write for our girls again!

MOC World Masterlist || Open Heart Masterlist Full Masterlist

Merida always knew how to play it cool. As the rain hammered on the roof of their car, she convinced Olivia and Casey that she had it totally under control. They never suspected that she had been white-knuckling it the whole time and was the most relieved of all when she saw the small motel they were staying in overnight in the distance.

The Snugglin' Inn looked nothing like it did online. The -g was missing from the neon sign flickering ominously in the night. Its garish pink light reflected in the dozens of little lakes that had formed in the potholes in the parking lot. But after hours on the road in treacherous conditions, the women were willing to stay anywhere... except for maybe Olivia.

“Are you sure this is the place?” she asked nervously.

“Yep, this is it!” Merida smiled. “Rustic charm! Just like the website said!”

"Ah,” Casey said, stretching her arms over her head. “If by charm they mean probably haunted, then yeah, no false advertising claim here! But as long as our room is dry... I’ll fight off the resident ax murderer for one night."

“You don’t really think there’s an ax murderer,�� Olivia swallowed. “Do you?”

“Of course there is,” Merida winked. “All motels in Pennsylvania have one. Didn’t you know?”

Casey nodded in agreement. "Yep, state code!"

They rushed to the trunk to grab their bags, then dashed to the tiny lobby dripping wet. The clerk barely glanced at them as she handed over a room key while half-heartedly warning about the air conditioner being on the blink. Normally, faulty air conditioning would be enough to make Casey sleep in the car, but between the rain and talk of murderers, she was eager to get to their room.

“What’s the likelihood that this place has room service?” Olivia asked as they made their way down the outside corridor, her stomach growling.

“About as likely as it is to have comfortable beds,” Merida chuckled.

“Hey,” Casey laughed. “These places are known for being rented by the hour... the beds are what they’re all about.”

“You would know that,” Olivia grinned as Merida pushed the door open.

"Well, this is cozy," Merida said, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she tossed her bag onto the bed. The sole queen-sized bed in the tiny room.

Olivia looked around, nervously biting her lip. "Uhm, where are the other beds?"

"There aren’t any," Casey sighed. “It’s OK. One of us can sleep in the bathtub.”

“No one is sleeping in the bathroom; that’s ridiculous!” Merida insisted. “Have you not seen Psycho? No one goes in the bathroom! If we have to pee – do it in the corner of the room.”

“We probably wouldn’t be the first ones to do that,” Casey observed.

“Guys! Are you sure we should stay here?” Oliva worried.

“We’ll be fine,” Casey assured. “It’s just a night.”

Ever practical, Merida was already looking for solutions to the sleeping arrangements. “If we push the bed against the wall, that should prevent at least one of us from falling onto the floor. It might be a little crowded, but it will do.”

"Crowding is inevitable,” Casey smiled. "But we’re all friends, and it’s not like this is the first time we’ve had to share a bed. Remember the time we stayed at that place in The Berkshires?"

Merida couldn’t help but giggle at the memory. "You mean the time you woke up spooning Olivia, and she nearly had a stroke?"

"Hey, I was asleep! I can’t control what I do in my sleep," Casey defended, although her playful grin betrayed her. "Besides, Olivia was fine with it. Being spooned by Casey is kind of a badge of honor!”

"She’s not wrong," Olivia blushed.

After changing quickly, they all settled into bed with Casey in the middle, Merida against the wall, and Olivia on her other side.

“If I fall on the floor during the night, do you think I’ll catch anything contagious?” Oliva asked.

“Liv,” Merida said pointedly. “We're all doctors. Even if you do, we should be able to cure you.”

Just as they were beginning to get comfortable, Merida’s phone buzzed. She glanced at it and rolled her eyes.

"It's Ethan. Look what he sent me.”

“Again? What does he mean again?” Olivia asked. “He never bailed us out before!”

Merida and Casey exchanged sheepish grins, and Oliva was too frightened to ask.

“Tell Ethan to bite me!” Casey laughed. “Tobias would bail us out in a heartbeat. In fact, he’s probably home looking forward to it right now.”

“Speaking of Tobias,” Olivia smiled, handing Casey her phone from the nightstand beside her.

“Oh, my husband thinks he has jokes,” Casey chuckled, showing her friends her phone.

“He's calling me an octopus! He's seriously like an octopus! I mean it! Those arms go everywhere."

Merida let out a groan. “For the love of God, Casey... if you start talking about your sex life, I will make you sleep in the bathtub with the ax murderer... and I might sharpen his ax."

"Well, tell Tobias not to get too jealous," Olivia giggled. "We’re just here to sleep, not to, you know..."

“Speak for yourself,” Merida laughed, playfully pawing her friend. "You never know what kind of mischief we'll get into!"

Olivia’s phone vibrated next. “It’s Bryce!” She beamed, handing her phone to Casey. “My boyfriend has a warning for you.”

“You know our three idiots are sitting in Donahues Googling memes, believing themselves to be much funnier than they actually are!" Merida insisted.

But Casey didn't hear her; she was too busy shaking her head in righteous indignation. “You spoon a person one time!” She lamented. “One time! I don’t know how I got this reputation!”

“Really?” Merida chortled. “We could give you examples, but I'd like to do other things this weekend, and that would take all our time!"

“Yeah,” Oliva laughed as Casey feigned horror.

“Et tu, Brute!”

With that, Merida hopped over her friends, pushing Casey against the wall and leaving Olivia sandwiched in the middle.

“Hey, what are you doing!” Olivia hollered.

“Tell Bryce you’re safe from Casey on this trip,” Merida laughed, holding her from behind. “But not from me.”

“Hey!” Olivia blushed.

“Sorry! I can't let Casey be the only one with the depraved reputation!" She teased.

Olivia and Merida turned to Casey as she giggled in delight.

“What are you laughing at?" Olivia asked.

“Since Merida is spooning you, I told Tobias I'm forking you. Of course, he wants photos!"

“He wants photos?” Merida chided. "Give me your phone. I’ll give him a photo!"

The friends descended into giggles as they recalled stories, blissfully unaware of their less-than-perfect surroundings. By the time they finally fell asleep, daw was already starting to break, and before they knew it, Merida's alarm went off.

Casey groaned as she snuggled closer to Olivia. "Can we delay getting up for a few more minutes, please?"

"I'm with Casey," Olivia mumbled, resting her head on Merida's shoulder.

Merida shook her head with a grin. "Fine," she said, setting the alarm for fifteen minutes later and then getting back under the cover with her friends. "This is actually kind of nice."

Olivia nodded. "Yeah, I think so too."

"Best road trip ever," Casey yawned. "Now, back to sleep!"

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[jerzwriter]

Second Thoughts If it were cannon... AU

A million years ago, someone asked me if I'd write a series that mimicked canon but with Tobias Carrick as head of the Edenbrook Diagnostic Team. While I don't have the bandwidth to take on a series at this point, as I'm doing my Open Heart re-read, I will rewrite select scenes that I think could be interesting.

Part one was the first night at Donahue's when there was a serious connection building between Dr. Tobias Carick and new intern, Dr. Casey MacTavish. But now, they've had a chance to sleep on it, do things look different in the morning light? Lack of sleep, misunderstandings, and a dash of fear lead Casey to make a choice. Will it be one she comes to regret?

Book: Open Heart Book 1 / Chapter 3 Pairing: Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey) Featuring: Bryce Lahela, Jackie Varma, Landry Olsen Rating: Teen Words: 2,200 Series: If it were canon... AU Summary: See above

A/N: A quick thank you to @angelasscribbles for helping me come up with a new nickname lol I was at a loss. And thank you to @alj4890 - because of you I'm inspired to continue with this!

Series Masterlist Tobias x Casey Masterlist My Masterlist

The second day of her internship was not going as planned. Casey hardly managed to get any sleep in the miniature closet she called her room. At least the stairs above her came in handy today. She accidentally set her alarm for 5:00 PM instead of 5:00 AM, and if not for someone stomping down those steps, she would have overslept and likely decided to return to Philadelphia in shame. Now, with barely 30 minutes before her shift began, she threw on a ratty old Henly that paired perfectly with the wrinkled pair of jeans at the foot of her bed. Hair and make-up? Not today. A messy bun and brushed teeth would have to suffice. Somehow, she managed to arrive at Edenbrook with ten minutes to spare; when she saw a group of surgical interns playing basketball outside. Bryce Lahela was amongst them, and suddenly she wished she had spruced up just a little bit more.

“Up top! I’m open!” A shirtless Bryce barely got those words out before he flew by her, catching a pass and dribbling confidently toward the hoop. He dunked the ball, then screamed out in celebration. “Ha! Who’s the king now?”

“King?” Casey laughed, “You nearly killed me getting to that ball! I think the king should at least get a traffic infraction."

“Damn! I didn't realize. I would  have gladly given up two points for a chance to collide with you.”

Casey laughed as the other interns whooped and hollered when she saw the ball suddenly flying in her direction and caught it with both hands.

“Well, come on then, MacTavish!" Bryce goaded. "You gonna play, or you gonna send that back over?”

With a determined smirk, Casey slowly dribbled the ball, taunting him. “Come see if you can get it from me." Bryce sauntered toward her with what she’d come to know as his signature grin firmly in place.

“You’re making me look good,” he whispered upon approach. “I really am the king.”

“King of the surgical interns,” she laughed. “I guess that’s something, but....” without another word, she dribbled the ball around him, rushing toward the hoop with Bryce at her heels.

“Gonna make it tough on me, huh?” he laughed, wrapping his arm around her waist and spinning her around, but not before she shot the ball right into the hoop.

“That’s gotta be a foul, Ref,” she hollered, giggling in Bryes’s arms.

“It’s not a foul if you’re on my team,” Bryce defended. “And you are definitely on my team.”

Casey caught her breath as he put her on his feet, crossing her arms defiantly. “Says who?”

 “Says me!” He replied with a playful shrug. “But seriously, you want to join in?”

“Nah, my shift starts in five, and I’d really like to make myself look decent before it starts.”  

“You’re already looking good, MacTavish. Don’t go too crazy; I don’t want competition for hottest intern.”

“Ha!” she laughed, reaching up and flirtatiously pinching his cheeks. “I’ve already got that in the bag, Lahela!”

"Quite possibly," she beamed. "Hey, lunch later?"

"Sounds like a plan."

He smiled as he watched her run to the hospital entrance, pushing her way through a group of staff who had stopped to watch the game and assess the new talent.

“Excuse me. Pardon me,” she pushed through.

“You looked really good out there,” a pretty nurse winked.

“Thanks,” Casey smiled. Completely unaware that her handsome attending was quietly sipping his coffee nearby.

“She was impressive, wasn’t she, Dr. Carrick?” The nurse asked.

“Yep," he nodded. "She sure was.”

After a quick change, sprucing up her hair, and even applying a dab of lip gloss, Casey was the last of the interns to enter the atrium, but still on time. She was eager to meet her senior resident, and when Dr. Ines Delarosa called her name, Casey gently pumped her fist. “Yes!”

“Why are you so excited?” Jackie asked.

“I met her yesterday, she’s amazing! Bubblegum and rainbows incarnate!”

“Gross!” Jackie grimaced. “I’d rather take my chance with the grumpy ass I've got. I’ll catch you on the other side!”

Ines clapped her hands with joy to gather her charges. “All right, young ones! You’ve got your assignments! Go forth and shine bright!”

And Ines greeted her interns with the same enthusiasm when they returned a few hours later. “I hope you’re all excited! We’re about to begin rounds!”

“Woo-hoo!” Casey yelled as Ines gave a thumbs up with approval.

“That’s the attitude I want to see! You’ll be even more excited when I tell you we have a very special guest! Dr. Tobias Carrick will be joining us for rounds today!”

Casey turned to see Tobias leaning against a wall, looking up from his clipboard at the mention of his name. He curtly nodded at the interns, and Casey’s mouth went dry. Why did he have to be so beautiful? One glance made her knees go weak, and when his ice-blue eyes locked with hers, she could feel her cheeks begin to flush. She had been fueled by liquid courage when she approached him at Donahue's last night. What kind of intern flirts mercilessly with her attending on her very first day? But with his eyes still on her, she felt the heat rising. Yeah, she thought, that’s why I did. But when he turned away without acknowledging her, she began to question her judgment again.

“Let’s do this,” Dr. Carrick said gruffly.

“We’re doing rounds with Dr. Carrick? This is amazing! Also, I’m going to puke!” Landry whispered softly but loud enough to hear.

Tobias stopped short and looked over his shoulder, catching Landry chatting with Casey. “Less chatting and more moving!” He scowled. “Or do you think you’ve learned enough to keep your patients alive with just one day on the job?”

Casey’s brow furrowed. He didn’t seem at all like the man she met yesterday: the one who patiently guided her through an emergency procedure before her shift even began, one whose jovial attitude kept the interns energized throughout the day, or with whom she flirted shamelessly last night, perhaps that last one was the problem. Still, she shook her head and whispered to Landry.

“He was so cool yesterday. Why is he acting like such a jerk today?”

Dr. Carrick screeched to a halt again, causing several interns to trip over themselves to avoid toppling on top of him.

“Something to say, Dr. MacTavish?”

Her wide-eyed peers whispered amongst themselves. How did he already know her name? Dr. Carrick didn’t expect an answer, but Casey was giving him one all the same.  

“Yes, actually. I was wondering why you were so irritable today. I liked the Dr. Carrick I met yesterday much better.”

Tobias crossed his arms, biting his cheek to stifle a laugh, and Ines looked nervously between them. “Ha-ha!” She laughed. “Dr. MacTavish is so funny... haha! That will help make you a good doctor, but why don’t we get on with our rounds.”

“Wait,” Tobias held up a hand. “Dr. MacTavish, what role do you think attendings will play in your residency? Do you they – myself in particular -  are here to amuse and appease you?”

“Nope," she replied, not backing down. "Not at all.”

“Good. Because all of us will be putting in long hours, sometimes you won’t sleep for days on end. You’ll be dealing with life-or-death issues, and sometimes, the losses will nearly destroy you. No one is going to be rainbows and sunshine all the time. So I suggest you learn to deal with irritable colleagues and patients alike. It’s as much a part of this job as anything else.” He looked directly at Casey, and even as he was admonishing her, his gaze still made her melt. “Is that clear?”

“Crystal,” she grinned as Tobias forced himself to look away. Casey was completely unaware, she had the exact same effect on him. b

“Good. So why don’t we start rounds with your patient then?”

Landry wanted to question Casey as they walked away. He wasn’t sure if she was his hero, if she was out of her mind, or a combination of both, but he didn’t dare speak after that exchange.  

Casey and Landry went on to present. Or better said, Casey did. Landry was so starstruck by Dr. Carrick’s presence that he couldn’t bring himself to utter a word. Casey eyed him nervously, but when it was clear he was stalled, she jumped in to bail the duo out. Calmly and succinctly explaining that their patient had been in an accident and had internal bleeding as a result. She offered their prognosis and defended their treatment plan, even reassuring the patient when he expressed concerns about the length of his stay. Tobias was impressed with her, and halfway through her presentation, he couldn’t help but wonder why he was being so grumpy after all. It wasn’t like him at all.

“... so we have to get you healthy, Mike,” Casey said sweetly. “There are people counting on you.”

“Excellent, Dr. MacTavish,” Tobias approved, looking pointedly at Landry.

They proceeded to watch Elijah, Sienna, Jackie, Aurora, and other interns present.

“Congratulations!” Ines chirped. “You survived your first morning rounds! That wasn’t so bad, was it?”

“Depends on who you ask,” Landry droned.

“Landry,” Casey frowned. “Don’t worry, you’ll get a chance to...,” but Tobias began speaking and drowned her out.

“All right, doctors! Your patients are all alive... let’s make sure they’re still that way when I see you tomorrow. You’re dismissed.”

Casey turned and walked away with the other interns, but she didn’t get far when Tobias called her back.

“Not you, Newbie. You have one more patient to see.”

“I... I do?” she stammered.

“And do I?” Landry asked.

“Did I say you?” Tobias glared.

“Nope,” Landry gulped, turning to Casey. “I guess I’ll see you later.”

Casey walked toward Tobias; while some interns gossiped, not even attempting to hide.

“What’s with them? One asked “Nothing! She just made a good a good impression on him.” “Yeah,” Another sneered. “A good impression on him at the bar last night!” “Well, I guess that’s one way to get ahead.”

Tobias didn’t hear, but Casey did, and she couldn’t conceal a frown as she walked his way. Seeing her distressed, he hoped his attitude had nothing to do with it. He greeted her with a warm smile.

“Hey there, Newb. Why so glum? You doing OK?”  

“I’m good,” she sighed. “Very sleepy, but good. Hey, I want to apologize; I’m sorry if I was a jerk back there...”

“Nah,” he replied, and she realized his graveled voice had the same effect on her as his damn eyes. This would not be easy. “I was the one being the jerk. That’s why I wanted to talk to you...”

“Wait,” she crossed her arms with narrowed eyes. “Are you telling me there’s no patient? You just wanted to talk to me?”

“Two things can be true at once, grasshopper,” he smiled. “That’s good to remember in medicine. But I am sorry for being grouchy. It’s not like me; I guess we all have bad days.”

“And we're all entitled to them every so often,” she winked. “Just don’t let it happen again.”

She wasn’t your standard intern, and he couldn’t help but laugh when he caught a nurse looking at them intently. She scattered away when he met her stare, refusing to shift his gaze. Casey followed his eyes and understood at once. She lowered her eyes as he returned his attention to her, his voice taking on a more serious tone. “Listen, about our talk last night..”

Casey felt herself becoming sick, and she didn't think skipping breakfast was the culprit. Her cheeks turned red, and her breath quickened. What would all the gossips say about the two of them standing this close? She was a kid from the wrong side of the tracks in Philly, worked her ass off to get here despite all those who said it was just a dream. She wasn’t going to have anyone saying her success was a result of flirting with her attending. But, God, she wanted to pursue him. She hadn't felt a connection like this in so long, and he had said they could find a workaround. Then she felt her blood go cold. Listen, about our talk last night...

Oh, God! She thought. I made a total ass out of myself, didn’t I? I’m an intern, for God’s sake. He’s Dr. Tobias Carrick; he likely has his choice of any person in this hospital. Any person in Boston! What the hell was I thinking? Convinced he was about to tell her he wasn’t interested. Her blatant flirtation was about to make her look like nothing short of a desperate fool, and Casey never wanted to be a desperate fool.

“It’s alright!” she interrupted, though right now, nothing felt alright. “We both had a few drinks, and it was late... it’s not surprising that we both said some things we didn’t mean.”

“Oh,” Tobias said, clearly taken aback. “I didn’t realize that...”

“Hey, Casey,” Bryce smiled, walking past with his team. “See you at lunch!”

“Oh,” Tobias repeated, images of the two of them kissing and their flirtatious game on the hospital court rushing to his mind. He recovered quickly this time. “It’s fine. I’m glad we’re on the same page then; this way, we don’t have to be awkward. We’re cool?”

“We’re cool,” she faked a smile, not understanding why his apparent dismissal brought the sting of bitter tears to the back of her eyes.

“Good! So, I do have a patient for you,” he said, nodding in the direction they were about to walk. “Her name is Kyra Santana, and her doctor thought a golf outing was more important than being here today. But, his loss is your and Ms. Santana’s gain...”

Casey took notes as he spoke. She never needed notes; she remembered almost everything, but she'd find any excuse to avoid looking into those eyes.

 “Hey, Dr. Carrick,” a beautiful nurse winked. Casey looked up momentarily but rushed her eyes back to the pad in her hand.

Thank God she quickly covered, she thought, her cheeks flushing with a mix of relief and embarrassment. He was Tobias Carrick. As if he’d have any real interest in her. It was bad enough that she had it this bad for her attending—the last thing she needed was for him to find out. That would be no way to start this phase of her life.

Tobias stood before the door, and, damn it, he smiled again. "You ready, Dr. MacTavish?"

"I like to think I am," she smiled as she walked through the door.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[jerzwriter]

To Love & over Protect - Tobias x Casey HC

It took me three years to tell the story of how my messy kids finally got together. By the time they did, they were so in love with a solid foundation of friendship beneath them. The honeymoon period was intense; however, nothing is perfect, and transitioning from friends to so much more comes with its challenges. So, I decided it was time to finally write those stories, too. The first story was Money, Money and this second was a little jealous. This may be the last one, but never say never!

Book: Open Heart (Book 2 Timeline) Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish (F!MC) Rating: Teen Words: 1,900 Summary: The chemical attack was over six months ago, and Casey is trying to adjust to her new normal with her new boyfriend at her side. The problem is? He thinks he needs to be there 24/7, and as sweet as it is, Casey needs him to understand, she can still take care of herself.

Tobias x Casey Masterlist Open Heart Masterlist Full Masterlist

Tobias glanced at his phone for the fifth time in as many minutes. Finally, the confirmation arrived, but not the one he wanted to see. The car he had arranged to pick Casey up from work at Edenbrook was stuck in traffic in Charlestown and wouldn’t be there on time. In fact, it was unlikely he’d be there for another hour.

“Fuck,” he muttered, leaning back in his office chair.

He’d ask her to wait, but he knew her too well. She’d tell him she knew how to get home and that she had managed to do so before he came into her life. She could take the T. It was nice out; she could even stand the 40-minute walk. He could just hear her. Tobias, I’ll be fine. And chances are she was right. But he wasn’t wasn’t about to take chances, not with her.

He sent her a quick text. Hey, hon. Getting out of work a little early. Wait for me; I’ll pick you up.

It wasn't exactly a lie, he was leaving early, it just wasn't planned until a second before. He opened his laptop, rescheduled a meeting or two, and ensured his patients had coverage. Then he rushed to the elevator, a full four hours before his shift was scheduled to end. He got off at the garage level, walking to his car at a rapid pace. Edenbrook was only an eleven-minute drive from Mass Kenmore, but with traffic, that could nearly double. He looked at his watch. It was 7:00 PM, and the sun wouldn't set for another ninety minutes. Surely she'd be fine. He knew he was overreacting, but he couldn't help it.

Therapy had gone a long way, but some memories could never be erased, no matter how much he wished they could. He was a doctor; he knew the signs, and he saw them in Casey that dreadful night. Her skin was no longer pale but became an ashen shade of grey. Her extremities took on a tinge of blue, and her breathing became shallow. Disorientation and lethargy had set in; she couldn’t focus on a conversation the last time he walked away from her in the containment room. He wasn’t even sure she knew he was there. That’s when he knew they had hours, not days, to unravel a mystery doctors better than him had never been able to solve, and the healthy fear that was driving him quickly morphed into terror.

The odds were against them, but he walked away from her with a promise in his heart and his heart in his throat. They’d find a cure. He’d find it. He’d see her again; he had to. They weren’t even on speaking terms prior to the attack, and that was no one’s fault but his own. But that didn't stop him from loving her. He may have been too clueless, too foolish, or too scared to admit it before, but there was no way he could deny it now. Tobias Carrick, Boston's most notorious confirmed bachelor loved Dr. Casey MacTavish with all his heart... and she didn’t even know.

The elevator door closed, and he had one minute. One minute to fall apart, to allow his body to tremble and his tears to flow. One minute to let the hopelessness wash over him and to pray to God for a miracle with all his might. But when the door opened, that luxury ended. The miracle was dependent on mere mortals; it depended on him. Never seeing the woman he loved alive again was not an option... her dying without even knowing how he felt was unacceptable. So he went to work.

The story had a happy ending, or as happy as it could be. An antidote was found, Casey survived, and their friendship flourished. In the dark days and months that followed, he was there for her, her rock ensuring she'd get through. It turned out that she loved him, too, and he had no idea just how much joy that would bring.

His Casey. She was his, and he was hers... but this was the real world, and he knew happily ever after didn’t exist, but dragons certainly did. They could appear at any time, be waiting around any corner, and they kept him up at night. He couldn’t shake the anxiety that gripped him. The mere thought of her in danger again filled him with a dread he couldn’t control, casting a shadow over the new life they were trying to lead.

Casey wasn't blind to it. She saw the signs and did all that she could to reassure him. She could handle herself, but Tobias couldn’t let it go. She was no longer to take the T. Boston's subway was too unpredictable, too full of potential danger. He had drivers on call to take her anywhere she needed to go when he couldn’t drive her himself. He even had groceries delivered to her apartment when he wasn't able to join her for errands. While Casey found it sweet and endearing at first, it was starting to wear on her, and she knew it was taking a toll on him, too.

When he arrived at the Edenbrook, his heart warmed as he watched her slide into the passenger seat beside him. She may have been exhausted after a long day, but she was radiant. She flashed that smile that lit up his entire world, and his heart skipped a beat. She was happy, healthy, alive, safe... and now she was here, with him.

“Hi, babe,” she greeted, leaning across the console for a quick kiss. “So, you’re my driver again?”

Tobias forced a smile, knowing what was coming next, but he could take the ribbing, as long as she was safe. He gently brushed stray strands of hair away from her face. God. He loved her.

“Hey, baby. How was your day?”

“Long,” she sighed, running a hand through her hair. “But good. I can’t complain. Though, I think I’ve forgotten what it’s like to get home from work by myself. Might have to retrain myself soon.”

He chuckled half-heartedly and took her hand. She could tease him all she wanted to. At least he knew she was safe. But as they drove to her apartment, it was impossible to ignore how quiet she had become. Something was on her mind, and he feared he knew precisely what it was.

They found a parking spot, and she invited him in. Kicking her shoes off at the door, she headed directly to her room, collapsing onto the bed with a groan. Tobias lay down beside her, gently caressing her arm. He couldn’t have been happier to be by her side, but his heart was still racing, and he knew they needed to talk.

“Casey,” he said softly. She turned to him, her eyes warm and patient. “I know I’ve been… a bit much lately.”

She raised an eyebrow, lips curving into a small smile. “A bit?”

“Okay, maybe more than a bit,” he admitted.

“Considering the fact that you’re not supposed to be at work for another three hours and you offered to accompany me to the bathroom, I’d say it’s more than a bit.”

“I just… I can’t help it, baby. I know you’re more than capable of taking care of yourself, but...”

“But?” She said, reaching to touch his cheek.

“I can’t stand the thought of anything bad happening to you, Casey. Not after everything… I need to protect you. I need to keep you safe. Having you hurt or, God forbid, losing you... it's not an option."

She reached for his hand. “I know, Tobias. I know you're doing all this because you care about me, and I love you for it. But you have to understand—this is no way to live. For either of us.”

“I’m afraid, Casey,” he said, his voice trembling with a vulnerability he rarely allowed himself to show. “I’m terrified that one day something will happen, and I won’t be able to save you.”

Tears welled up in Casey’s eyes as she leaned in closer, cupping his face in her hand. “You already saved me, hon. You saved my life and spent the months following showing me how to live again. I’m here because of you in more ways than one. But now, I need you to help me return to the real world, and I can’t do that if you’re constantly trying to protect me from it.”

He looked into her eyes, the weight of her words seeping in. She was right, of course. He’d been so focused on keeping her safe that he hadn’t realized he was suffocating both of them in the process. This was no way for them to live.

“You’re right,” he whispered. “I’m sorry. I wanted to help bring you back to life, not prevent you from living it.”

“Don’t you dare apologize for loving me and caring about me,” she replied. “But promise me you’ll work on this, OK? Talk to your therapist if you have to. You don’t have to do this alone.”

Tobias nodded, pulling her into his arms and burying his face in her hair. “I promise. I’ll do better. I just… I love you so much, Casey. I don’t want to lose you.”

“You won’t,” she whispered, pressing a kiss to his temple.

“You can’t guarantee that,” he sighed, his head filling with visions of that night against his will.

“Hey,” she said, forcing him to look her in the eye. “No day is promised to any of us, T, but there is only so much we can control. You know I’ll take care of myself, and I know you’ll do your part, too. But the rest... if we spend all our time worrying about all the things that can go wrong, we’ll never enjoy the time that we have. I don’t blame you, baby. We both went through a terrible ordeal, and it will take time to heal. But I have faith in you. I have faith in us."

He looked at her, his face twisted with all the emotions he was feeling at that moment, but the most prominent of them all was love.

“I love you, baby. I don’t have a ton of experience with this relationship stuff, and, well, ours got off to an eventful start....”

“It sure did,” she smiled. “And it’s not easy, but it will only make us stronger.”

Tobias's arms encircled her, and he pulled her as close as she could; Casey snuggled closer to him, relishing his closeness, his warmth.

“You mind if I stay over here tonight, kid?”

“Why,” she giggled. “Do you want to be with me, or are you just protecting me?”

“Oh,” he growled, rolling on top of her, his lips meeting hers in a passionate kiss. “I want to be with you all right. But two things can be true. I’m happy to protect you while I’m here... you can protect me, too, if that makes you feel better.”

“It does. I love you,” she smiled, giving him another tender kiss, then pulled back with an impish twinkle in her eye. Now, with all of this talk of protection... please tell me you have some on you because, if you’re staying, I have some fun activities in mind."

"You may not know this," he smiled, reaching into his pant pocket. "But I was a Boy Scout. I'm always prepared."

"And that's one of the things I love about you," she laughed, gripping his hands as they toyed with the hem of her shirt. But seriously, baby, promise you'll talk to your therapist. I want us both to heal from this. We have a beautiful life ahead."

He leaned in to kiss her forehead. "We sure do, and I'm not going to let anything, even my fear, get in our way."

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[jerzwriter]

A look at four Days from four vacations spread over four decades. Created for Tobias Carrick Appreciation Week, Day 1: Travel & Leisure.

Book: Open Heart Rating: Teen

St. Barts, 2008 | Tobias Carrick, Ethan Ramsey - 780 words

Stowe, Vermont, 2022 | Tobias x Casey Carrick - 665 words

Disney Road Trip, 2032 | Tobias x Casey Carrick and the Carrick Girls - 852 words

Stowe, Vermont, 2057 | Tobias x Casey Carrick - 562 words

A/N: While this was created with the appreciation week in mind, this is absolutely part of my Tobias x Casey headcanon. I loved seeing how a perfect day and a perfect vacation changed over the course of his life. Tagging @choicesjunechallenge2024 - because this definitely shows thresholds of changes in life. @tobias-carrick-appreciation-week Day 1: Travel & Leasure I hope you enjoy this!

Tobias x Casey Masterlist Open Heart Masterlist Complete Masterlist

March 2008 – St. Bart’s, The Caribbean

This had to be the perfect day. After enduring a brutal mid-Atlantic winter, the warmth of the tropical sun beating against his golden tan body felt like a gift from the gods. Dressed in no more than a pair of black swimming trunks and dark sunglasses, Tobias carried himself across the resort as if he were one of those gods. Not missing a single stare, giggle, or whisper as he strutted toward the pool... fitting those trips to the gym in with a med school workload had clearly paid off.

Ethan brought him back to earthy when he pointed to two lounge chairs under a pink and orange striped umbrella.

“What about those?”

Tobias shook his head. “Too close to the pool... splash zone if any rugrats show up.”

Ethan looked around, noting there wasn’t a child in sight.

“But there could be,” Tobias warned. He pointed to another set of chairs positioned on a raised deck nearby. “Those,” he said. “We’ll catch the rays, stay out of the family zone, and it’s the perfect vantage point to check out our prey.”

“Prey?” Ethan asked with disdain, but his friend only smirked.

“Come on, loosen up, pal. I brought you to St. Barts in hopes of improving your sense of humor... not diminishing it!”

As Ethan set up, Tobias returned from the bar with two pineapple-garnished frozen beverages in hand. After handing Ethan the blue one, he sat in his lounge chair and took a long sip of his bright yellow concoction. Ethan’s nose crinkled when the sweetness hit his tongue.

“Do you even know what’s in this thing?”

Tobias shrugged. “No idea, but that cute little redhead behind the bar recommended them, and far be it for me to question her professional expertise.”

“You’re incorrigible,” Ethan chuckled as he opened a book to Tobias’s horror.

“What! What! WHAT! Is that in your hands?”

Ethan looked at the cover to make sure he hadn’t brought something salacious by mistake.

“It’s Principles of Medical Science,” he replied. “You’re in that class; we have an exam when....”

Tobias removed the book from his hands, snapping it shut.

“HEY!”

“Hey, nothing! Ramsey, we work our asses off at school. We barely sleep and do what needs to be done, but this week... this week is about fun. Rest and relaxation, baby! There will be none of this.”

“I just thought that....”

“No!” Tobias insisted, and when he threatened to throw the book in the pool, Ethan reluctantly relented. Crossing his arms over his chest with a scowl.

“Get that look off of your face!” Tobias chided. “How are we supposed to pick up with you looking like that! You’ll scare any decent options away!”

“Is that all you think about?”

“Hell, yeah!” Tobias grinned. “We’re on the prowl...otherwise I’m stuck with you for ... companionship... this week... is that what you want?”

“I’d rather have the clap,” Ethan snickered.

“Well, I can’t provide you with that, buddy, but I suggest choosing wisely, or maybe someone else can.”  

Tobias was about to close his eyes for a quick nap when something caught his eye. Sitting at attention, he hit Ethan's chest.

“OWW!”

“Shhhh!” Tobias ordered. “Look, over there!”

He pointed to a statuesque woman wearing a barely there pink hibiscus print bikini and a pair of high-heeled sandals that highlighted every contour of her curvaceous legs. She let down the hair piled atop her head, and her long, golden-brown curls spilled over her shoulders, stopping just above the place Tobias now longed to be.

“I think I’m in love,” he whispered.

“More like lust,” Ethan smirked.

“Can you blame me?”

The woman caught Tobias shamelessly staring her way when she adjusted her sunglasses. After looking to both sides to ensure she was the object of his attention, she lowered those glasses, raising her drink with an enticing smile.

“Gotta go,” Tobias grinned. “Mama’s calling!”

“Seriously?” Ethan groaned. “Can you maybe put off objectifying the woman until after you say hello?”

Tobias turned to his friend with mock irritation. “Yeah, because look at how she’s looking at me! Clearly, she’s thinking about my gentle demeanor and intellectual prowess right about now. So, you coming with me?”

“Why would I?” Ethan replied. “You’ve already staked your claim, and it’s not like she has a friend.”

As if the universe had heard his request, a gorgeous blonde in a white bandeau top and blue sarong took a seat at the original beauty’s side, and Tobias cleared his throat.

“You were saying there, big guy?”

But Ethan was already on his feet. “I was saying we better get over there, fast; I have no desire to have you as my companion this week!”

November 2022 – Stowe, Vermont

Casey was in a fit of giggles as she attempted to open the door to their luxury suite. The three-hour trip wouldn’t have been so bad if the last hour hadn’t consisted of nothing but bucolic scenery. As stunning as it was, it didn’t provide the one thing she needed most... a bathroom. She just got the door open when her new husband called out in a panic from down the hall.

“WAIT!” He hollered, running to her side with that brilliant grin that made her weak no matter how many times she saw it. “I believe I’m supposed to carry you over the threshold, Mrs. Carrick.”

Mrs. Carrick. The sound almost made her melt. What she didn’t realize was that it had him melting, too.

“Oh, are you?” She grinned. “You’ve never carried me when we’ve gone on other vacations.”

He reached over and tugged at her sweatshirt, pulling her close. His fingers delicately lifted her chin toward him.

“That’s because this is the first time you’re my wife,” he crooned, sealing the sentiment with a sweet, tender kiss. “And I want to carry my wife over the threshold, not only because my mother would break my legs if she found out I didn’t.”

“Well, we can’t have that,” she laughed. “So, Mr. Carrick, if you’re going to carry me over the threshold, let’s do it! Our baby-to-be isn’t being too kind to my bladder right now.”

“That little brat,” he sighed, and without another word, he swept her into his arms, kicking the door open to the rustic suite open wide.

Tobias meticulously planned this trip, attending to every detail with painstaking care. Everything needed to be perfect. And while the photos had shown the stunning views—elegant rustic charm with a touch of romance—nothing could have prepared them for the actual beauty of the place, bathed in the amber glow of the late afternoon.

“This place is gorgeous!” Casey gasped, but her husband’s eyes were fixed on her when he replied.

“Sure is,” he said, as a blush came to her cheeks.

Casey rushed off to the bathroom while Tobias started a fire. When she returned, she joined him in front of the beautiful stone fireplace, wrapping her arms around him from behind.

“Leave it to you to find the perfect honeymoon spot,” she whispered. “Vermont is gorgeous! I can’t believe I’ve never been here before. I can’t wait to see more of it with you.”

“It is beautiful,” he agreed. “And just what we needed.”

“We could have gone to Bora Bora like you wanted,” she needled, scooting around to sit on his lap. “My obstetrician said it would have been fine.”

“That’s nice,” Tobias replied dismissively. “But there was no way my pregnant wife was going to be 10,000 miles away from her doctors. Not a long flight, not eating foods she’s unaccustomed to, not....”

“I know, I know, I know!” Casey laughed. “I’m just teasing, but I do feel bad that we couldn’t have your perfect honeymoon spot.”

“Hey, all I need for a perfect honeymoon is you,”  he assured. “We’ll go to Bora Bora next year – you’ll see.”

“With a baby in tow?” She chuckled. “Not so romantic.”

“No way! The baby will be in Boston with grandma,” he laughed. “This way, we can work on a sibling.”

“OK, big guy,” she chortled. “Can you let me get through this pregnancy before we start talking about another?”  

“I suppose,” he murmured, pulling her on top of him and joining their lips in a long, sensual kiss. When he opened his eyes, he gently brushed her blonde locks from her face, letting the fire’s glow illuminate every feature he cherished. “This has been the best day of my life,” he said with a smile. “I’m the luckiest man alive.”

“Mmm,” Casey beamed, nuzzling close. “This has been the perfect day, but you know what?”

“What?”

“Being here, alone with you, this is undoubtedly my favorite part.”

A gentle rumble vibrated in his chest, and his strong arms pulled her close. “You know what, that’s the best part for me, too.”

Casey playfully untangled herself from her new husband and tossed herself onto their plush, feather-topped bed, and purred, “Should I change into lingerie, Mr. Carrick, or would just getting naked suffice?”

Tobias flew over, cradling her in his arms as he gently lay at her side. “You’re sure it’s been a long day, and....”

“Tobias!” She scolded. “You know darn well it’s all right for us to do this, and if you think I’m not consummating this marriage...”

“Oh, I’m all for consummating the marriage,” he chuckled. “As long as you’re not too tired.”

Casey grinned mischievously and traced a finger along his jawline. “Too tired? Not a chance. In fact, I’ve been looking forward to this moment all day.”

Tobias smiled and kissed her gently. “Then let’s make this night as unforgettable as the day.”

With that, they lost themselves in each other, the fire casting a warm, flickering light over their intertwined bodies, sealing their love with passion and intimacy that would be the foundation of their life together. They were right; this was a perfect day.

Family road trip to Disney World, June 2032

Tobias’s face turned red when a slice of bologna hit this side of his head with a smacking sound. He saw Brooke’s eyes go wide in the rearview mirror, and Casey did her best to contain a laugh as she removed the offending piece of lunchmeat from her husband’s face.

“I’m sowee, Daddy!” his eight-year-old said with a sweet little voice. “It was an accident.”

“Brooke, sweetie,” he said, doing his best to maintain composure. “How does one accidentally throw a slice of bologna?”

“One doesn’t,” ten-year-old Samantha chimed in. “I think she should be punished.”

“Sammy!” Casey called out, silencing her eldest at once. She turned to face Brooke seated in the second row of their van. “How did that happen?”

“I just handed a piece to Kayla,” she replied. “She’s hungry. She threw it at Dad, but she didn’t know any better. She’s only three!”

“And what happened to our no eating in the car rule?” Tobias asked.

“Mom says that’s suspended on trips over three hours long,” Sammy informed, as Tobias gave his wife the side-eye.

“Well,” she reddened, “maybe we should stop for a snack. It is getting late, after all.”

“Mmm-hmmm...” her husband hummed in sarcastic agreement.

“That’s a good idea!” Brooke stated. “Because Kayla has to pee!”

“Oh yeah," Casey laughed. "And how do you know that?”

“Because I just peed!” Kayla giggled.

Casey placed a reassuring hand on Tobias’s knee. “There's a service area three miles ahead...” she soothed.

“And not a mile too soon.” He replied, before playfully taunting his wife.

“Let’s drive to Disney, she said. It will be fun, she said. Why would we want to fly, she said.”

“Because the plane hurt Kayla’s ears last time, Daddy!” Brooke scolded.

“I know, Brookey,” Tobias smiled into the rearview mirror. “Daddy’s just teasing Mommy.”

Without removing her eyes from the book she had been engrossed in the whole trip, Samantha needed to add her two cents. “Grammy says you need to knock that off before Mommy gets sick of you.”

Casey barked out a laugh as a weary Tobias shook his head. “They need to spend less time with my mother,” he grumbled as they pulled into the service area.

Once the van was cleaned up and everyone was fed, Casey decided to put the girls into their pajamas for the rest of the trip. According to GPS, they’d be arriving at their hotel around midnight, and this way, they could usher them up to their beds, hopefully without waking them. Tobias suggested piling them all on a luggage cart as he and Casey finished their ice cream. She wasn't sure if he was joking, but she didn’t think it was a bad idea.

After fastening the girls into their seats, Tobias put on a soothing, lullaby playlist, and they were out like lights before they were five miles down the road.

“Are they all asleep?” he whispered.

Casey turned around to double-check. "Down for the count!” she smiled.

“Have I mentioned how happy I am that our suite has two bedrooms?” Tobias asked.

“Only a few dozen times,” Casey chuckled.

Tobias reached for Casey's hand and raised it to his lips, placing several tender kisses upon her knuckles. The tender moment solidifying a bond they had created long ago.

“I’m sorry if this was too much,” Casey sighed. “Maybe we should have just gone to the lake...”

“Hey, hey...” he interrupted. “Look, they're our little monsters. We know they're a handful, but I’m just teasing you. This is going to be a great trip and we're going to have these memories for a lifetime. Don’t worry about it one bit.”

“Are you sure?” she asked. “Because in the eleven years since you've met me, I certainly turned your happy bachelor life upside down.”

Tobias turned to her without an ounce of amusement on his face. “I hope that you're joking. The last eleven years of my life make the thirty-seven that preceded it seem like nothing at all. You and the girls are everything to me, baby. You are my life.”

“I know,” she grinned. “But I always imagined this life to a degree... the best parts and the chaotic parts, but you didn’t.”

Tobias pulled over to the side of the rural road, his hand on his wife’s cheek as soon as he put the van in park.

“Shut up,” he smirked, leaning over for a kiss.

Casey’s brow creased when he opened the door and stepped outside.

“Babe, what are you doing?” she whispered, but by the time she finished her question, he was already opening her door.

“Step outside, Mrs. Carrick,” he beamed.

Without letting go of her hand, he placed his phone on the hood of the van and fumbled to find a song. As the first notes played, Casey's shoulders relaxed. She would recognize their wedding song anywhere.

“All of Me?” she smiled, happy tears rising to her eyes.

“May I have this dance, beautiful?" He asked, looping his arm around her waist. "I promised you I’d sneak a little romance into each day for the rest of our lives, and I had no plans on stopping today.”

Casey nuzzled her head into his shoulder, a single tear rolling down her cheek.

"God, I love you."

"I love you, too," he replied, softly kissing the top of her head.

The world stood still as the two of them swayed together under the stars. Patients, deadlines, carpools, bickering, playdates, homework... they all melted away as they were transported to a world where the only thing that existed was the two of them and their love for one another.

When the song ended, Casey pulled back and looked into her husband's eyes. "How did I ever get this lucky?"

"You?" He asked with surprise. "I’m the lucky one here, sweetheart. I get to spend the week with four beautiful ladies that I love with all my heart."

"Well," she said, tenderly caressing his cheek. "Those four ladies love you, too. So, you're sure you're not upset over all the chaos today?"

"Upset?" he shrugged. "No way. Chaos and all, today was a perfect day."

Stowe, Vermont - November 2057

They held hands as they walked through the quiet forest. Tourist season was over, and it felt like they had the mountains to themselves, just like it had so many years ago. Casey took a deep breath, her face lighting up as the scent of pine and fresh mountain air filled her lungs, and Tobias couldn’t help but smile. It was their 35th anniversary, and they had returned to Vermont, the place where their journey began long ago.

Tobias glanced at Casey; the silver streaks in her hair that she fought so hard to hide shimmered in the light. She never understood that he meant it when he said every grey hair and wrinkle only made her more beautiful to him. At that moment, his heart was filled with joy.

“Can you believe it’s been 35 years?” he asked, his voice full of awe.

“It’s hard to believe,” Casey grinned. “It seems like only yesterday we were here, newlyweds with all our lives ahead of us. Now, our babies have babies, and you and me....”

“We’re every bit as in love as we were back then,” he cooed. “We’ve had quite a life, haven’t we?”

Casey nodded as her mind drifted to the life and memories they had created. Their three little girls had grown into strong, beautiful women, and they were so proud of each one. Along the way, they faced challenges they could never have imagined and celebrated joys they would have believed were too great for this world. Throughout it all, their very best friend was always at their side, supporting each other through thick and thin.

“I wouldn’t change a thing,” she whispered. “You’ve been the cornerstone of my life, Tobias.”

He took her hand and led her to a small wooden bench, where they watched the sun begin to set in comfortable silence. The sky put on a show for free, a canvas of pink and orange that only nature could create. The years had brought changes, but their love was a constant on which they could always rely. Thirty-five years before, they couldn't imagine their love growing deeper, yet it did with each passing year.

Tobias reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, worn photo from their wedding day. “Look at us,” he beamed, showing it to Casey. “We were so young and full of dreams.”

“Well, I was young,” Casey teased, running her finger over the photo. “You already had a leg up on me, old man.” But then she became more serious. “And look at us now,” she said, a tear rolling down her cheek. “We’ve lived every dream we had and created new ones along the way.”

Tobias took her face in his hands, their eyes damp as they faced one another. “Sometimes I wonder what my life would have been like if I had never met you, and I shudder. You showed me a life... a love... I could have never imagined before."

“And you’ve done the same for me,” she replied, her voice cracking with emotion.

“We should head back,” she said after a long embrace. “It’s beginning to get dark.”

As they stood to leave, Tobias wrapped his arm around her shoulders, and they began to walk to the Inn. “Here’s to many more years,” he said, planting a tender kiss on Casey’s forehead.

“To many more,” she smiled, turning to him with questioning eyes when he chuckled. “What is it?” she asked.

“Look at us! Still creating perfect days after all these years.”

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately

[jerzwriter]

Money, Money - Tobias x Casey HC

It took me three years to write the story of how my messy kids finally got their act together and ended up together. By the time they did, they had a solid foundation of friendship underneath them, and they were so in love. I imagine the honeymoon period was intense; however, nothing is perfect, and transitioning from friends to so much more comes with its challenges. So, I decided it's time to finally write those stories, too. I think this one would take place about a month after they got together. I hope you enjoy it!

Book: Open Heart (Late Book 2 Timeline) Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish (F!MC) Rating: Teen Words: 2,500 Summary: Tobias and Casey are finally together, and madly in love; things are going smoothly until Casey learns something about her new boyfriend... and she's not pleased. How will they work it out?

A/N: Above, also, participating in @choicesjunechallenge2024 - “You’ve got to make up your mind.”

Tobias x Casey Masterlist Open Heart Masterlist Full Masterlist

It was a perfect Sunday morning in the roomie’s cozy Boston apartment. At least, Jackie thought so. With two of the five roomies working – and Bryce conspicuously absent – the place was quiet for a change. Even better, Sienna and Aurora had prepared a delicious breakfast to enjoy for no more than a promise to do the dishes. Sitting at the table in her raggedy old t-shirt, shoveling homemade waffles into her mouth was as good as it gets.

“These are so good,” she drooled.

“Thanks,” Sienna replied proudly. “I saved this new recipe for our next girls’ day.”

“Girls’ day less one,” Aurora clarified.

“I know,” Sienna frowned. “I’m really happy for Casey, but I miss her since she's dating Tobias. I feel like she’s never here anymore.”

“Because she’s not, and we all know why that is,” Jackie snickered.

“I know,” Sienna chuckled. “I was just hoping she’d be home a little more often.”

“There are five people in five bedrooms here... Tobias has five bedrooms for the two of them at his place. Can’t say I blame her,” Aurora shrugged.

“Yeah, and the upside is, if they go there, we don’t have to hear them,” Jackie added. 

Aurora raised her glass of orange juice in agreement, but Sienna wasn't sold.

“Still, I’d be willing to sleep with earplugs once in a while to see Casey more often."

“I would, too,” Aurora agreed. The two women turned to Jackie, seeking to make it unanimous, but she stalled.

“All right! And that speaks to how much I love her. I'd do it once in a while as long as I could mock them both in the morning."

"Well, that goes without saying," Aurora smirked.

“Good!! I’ll talk to her!”

“Sienna!” Aurora laughed. “We're just making conversation. I didn’t think it was an actual offer!”  

“Well, why not?” Sienna asked. “She’s only home about two nights a week now. If I happen to be working those nights, I don’t see her.”

“You act like you don’t work with her!” Jackie pointed out when the women were interrupted by the sound of the front door slamming shut.

“I’ll grab the bat,” Jackie whispered.

“IT’S CASEY!” Aurora shouted. “Put the bat down, Jackie!”

“Casey! We were just talking about you! Did you eat? I can make you more waffles if you....”

But Sienna came to a halt when Casey stepped brusquely into the kitchen. With her coat still on, breathing heavily, her nostrils flaring; it was clear that food was the last thing on her mind.

“Casey?” Sienna asked cautiously.

“What did Carrick do?” Jackie snapped, still twirling the baseball bat in her hands. “I’ll kill him!”

“Jackie! Why do you automatically assume Tobias did something!” Aurora scolded before turning to Casey. “So, what did he do?”

Casey glanced at each of her friends in astonishment. After taking a shaky breath, she exclaimed, "He's rich!" Her coat fell in a crumpled heap on the kitchen floor as she turned on her heel and stormed into the living room. She threw herself onto the couch, repeating, "He's fucking rich!"

“Uhm, this is news to you?” Aurora asked.

“And... that's a bad thing?” Sienna followed.

“Leave her alone, guys,” Jackie said with what momentarily appeared to be sympathy. “It’s easy to see how she could have missed it. You know, a five-bedroom townhome in Boston, the $80,000 Jaguar and $90,000 Genesis. It’s pretty hard to tell he’s not just your average dude struggling to get by.”

Casey's eyes went wide. “That’s how much those cars cost!”

Jackie pinched the bridge of her nose with disgust. “Sometimes I question why I’m friends with you.”

Sienna glared at Jackie as she sad beside Casey. “I think what Jackie’s trying to say... in her very Jackie way... is... how didn’t you know he was rich?”

Casey leaned forward, holding her head in her hands. “Obviously, I knew he was well off. I’m not that dumb! But I figured he had successful doctor kind of money. I didn’t know he was loaded, old-money, practically 1% kind of rich!”

“Casey?” Aurora questioned. “He’s a Carrick of the DC Carricks...he is 1% kind of rich. Or at least his family is. How did you not know that?” 

"Aurora, you're rich. That might matter to people in your family's social circle. But I was a poor kid from South Philly. Back-to-school shopping meant digging through a Hefty bag of my older cousin's hand-me-downs. The Carrick family wasn't exactly on our radar."

“But you’re into politics,” Aurora countered. “His last name is Carrick. He's from DC. It never crossed your mind?”

“It’s not the most common surname, but there are more than a few Carricks in the world. So, no,” she said on the verge of tears. “It never crossed my mind.”

“Oh, boo-hoo-hoo,” Jackie interrupted. “You’ve met a hot guy who worships the ground you walk on, gives you the most incredible orgasms of your life, and he’s filthy rich. My heart aches for you, Case!"

Sienna shot Jackie another silencing glare. “What Jackie’s trying to say... in her very Jackie way... is.... how exactly is this a bad thing?”

"Guys, you know me. My family was poor; my mom's medical bills nearly destroyed us. I despise how the capitalist system works. It nauseates me that the richest 0.1% of Americans control $20 trillion in wealth while the bottom 50% only control $3.7 trillion!"

“How does she know those stats?” Jackie whispered.

“Jackie! Stop,” Casey interrupted. “The bottom line is, I’m in love with the enemy!”

“He’s not the enemy,” Aurora said with a roll of her eyes. “Really? My family is wealthy. Does that make me the enemy, too?”

“No,” Casey said, abashed. “It’s just that amount of wealth and the power that comes with it... it makes me very uncomfortable.”

“So at least no one can say you're in love with him because of his money,” Sienna offered. “That’s a good thing. But are you are in love with him, right?"

“Of course! You know how much I love him!"

“Then wouldn’t holding his wealth against him be as messed up as if he held your lack of wealth against you?” Sienna replied.

“He can’t help what family he was born to,” Aurora added. “Trust me, I know.”

“I see your point,” Casey agreed. “But it makes me so... uncomfortable. How would I even fit in in that world?”

“You fit very nicely into his world," Jackie noted. "And isn't that all that matters?"

“What will his family think of me?” Casey worried.

“You won’t know until you meet them,” Aurora stated. “But from what I hear, his mom is so happy he’s settling down, I think you’ll do just fine!"

“Have you discussed any of this with Tobias?” Jackie asked.

“No... not really. He told me he was one of the Carricks, and I sort of had a panic attack and rushed out of his place.”

“Wow," Jackie sputtered. "You handled that like a champ!”

“Jackie!” Sienna scolded. “Casey, we're always willing to listen to you, but the person you need to talk to is probably sitting home stressing out right now.”

“Yeah, his very expensive home,” Jackie offered.

"I feel like an idiot," Casey sighed. "What do I say to him now?"

"You'll figure it out," Aurora smiled. "But if I were you, I'd go back over now, don't let this fester."

~~~~~

Twenty minutes later, a weary Casey stood at Tobia's front door. Leaning against the frame, he met her with tender eyes but remained silent.

“May I come in?” she muttered, reaching to touch his hand.

“You want to?” he questioned.

“I’m here, aren't I?"

He kicked the door open, and Casey walked through, heading straight to his living room. Tobias poured two glasses of water, handed one to Casey, and then sat beside her in silence, waiting for her to speak.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered.

“All right, but from where I stand, you have nothing to be sorry for... but I wouldn't mind an explanation.”

“Tobias, I didn't know that you were one of the Carricks. I knew you were well off, obviously, but I never thought you were, like, old-school money, and... that's difficult for me."

“Really," he half-chucked, placing his water on the coffee table. "That’s a selling point for most...”

“Well, I’m not most,” she sighed. “Tobias, I haven't gone into detail about my family, but I grew up poor. My dad had to work three jobs to keep a roof over our heads when my mom got sick, and her medical bills nearly left us on the street. I know what it’s like living in poverty and the inequities that come with it. It dictates how safe your neighborhood is if you can eat healthy foods, and god forbid you to get sick; it can literally determine who lives and dies. The system is so fucked up, and I hate it.”

“All right,” he replied calmly. "But I can see those things too.”

“Can you? Because you see those things as a spectator, I grew up in the game. I know what it's like to attend an inner-city school. My parents tried to shield me, but I'd hear my mom lying in bed in agony, and they'd put off going to the hospital because they just couldn't afford another visit. It shaped my worldview and I've wanted to do what I can to make things more equitable."

"I know," he interrupted. "And that's one of the things I admire about you."

"But, don't you see? I've always been distrusting of those with vast wealth; I'm very uncomfortable with the concept, and this isn't easy for me."

Tobias fidgeted beside her. "So, does this change how you feel about me? Do you still want to be with me?"

"Tobias, of course not! I love you, and that doesn't change, but I'm frightened. How will this impact us?"

“Personally, I don’t think it has to impact us at all unless we allow it to."

"I think that's a little naive," she said, her face beginning to falter. "Think about it, will I fit into your world?"

"Casey," he said, putting his arm around her and pulling her close. "You are my world."

"Tobias," she sighed.

"No, let me finish. You mean everything to me, I couldn't care less what you have or don't have. What matters to me is you and the person you are. And while I'll admit, I'm spoiled and like some luxuries, have you exactly seen me hitting up country clubs? I'm much more comfortable at a local bar or at a Red Sox game."

"Yeah," she snickered. "With your season tickets to the Red Sox."

"One of the luxuries I like," he sighed. "But that doesn't make me a bad person, Casey."

“You know, even before this, I should have seen it. How do we mesh our existence? Tobias, I shop at the discount racks at TJ Maxx. There are weeks I have $40 in my pocket until payday... the inequity between us is....”

“It’s not a problem for me.”

"But do you see, it would be easier for you," she replied with tears in her eyes. "Like if you wanted to go on vacation with me, I can't afford to go. I probably won't be able to for a long time."

"And you think I'd ask you to pay?"

"And you think I'd be OK with not paying?"

"Casey," he began, his tone turning serious, "you're the woman I love, and it's obvious you're not gold-digging here," he chuckled softly. "We can discuss how we'll handle this more, but no one has ever meant as much to me as you do. I know we're still new, but there's nothing I wouldn't do for you, and I don't expect anything in return, and I'm not about to use my money as a power play. I see you as my equal in every way, and if I haven't shown that well enough, then that's on me, and I'll do better. But please, Casey, don't let this come between us."

"Oh, Tobias," she sighed. "You've never done anything to make me feel like I'm anything less than your equal. This… this is on me. You must think I'm a reverse snob."

"Nah," he chuckled, standing up to pour them something stronger. Casey accepted the drink with a smile.

"I think you have valid concerns. Inequity within relationships can be a big thing. But I'm confident we could work through it. As I said, you're my equal."

“What about your family? Will they accept me?”

"Funny you should ask," he chuckled. "You assume my entire family is rich. My dad's side was the Carricks, but my mom's side sounds a lot like your family growing up. I was immersed in both worlds, which came with its own challenges. But I'm not blind or indifferent on this topic. As for the Carricks," he snorted and took a long drink, "We can talk all about the joys of growing up a Carrick one day. I honestly don't care what anyone thinks; you are the person I want by my side."

"You sure?"

"Casey, the family that matters to me, I know they'll love you. And even if they didn't, it wouldn't change how I feel."

Tobias shook his head and began to laugh, catching Casey by surprise.

"What's so funny?"

"I'm just thinking... I always worried someone might want me for my money. I never thought someone would dump me because of it."

Casey looked up with concern. “Oh, Tobias. No! No, no, no,” she said, hugging him tight. “I’m not leaving you. That never crossed my mind. I love you too much. But how do we make this work? We are bound to have different ideas, and what if we have a family of our own one day? This will really matter."

"Family?" He smirked. "You want a family with me? I can't even get you to officially move in with me."

Casey rolled her eyes. "I'm here all the time."

"Unofficially. I have yet to see a change of address form."

Casey playfully shoved him, and he dramatically fell back, giving her the opportunity to jump on top of him. Feeling better, she took a deep breath and nuzzled against his chest.

“Do you give a lot of money to charity?”

“Yes,” he chortled.

“Would I think it’s enough?”

“Probably not, but we can discuss that.”

“You better believe we will be if we end up... you know.”

“No," he teased. "I don't know. If we end up what, exactly?"

“Shut up," she laughed. "I love you, Tobias, and I’m sorry if I overreacted.”

“I’m sorry for being ignorant about how much this would mean to you. You're right, I’m sure there will be things we’ll have to bridge, but I think we can do anything together, baby."

"So do I," she grinned.

“Now... about this family of ours."

“Oh, God," Casey covered her face, which was turning bright red.

“Don't worry, I'll let that go for now. But, I would love to introduce you to my existing family... what do you say?”

She shifted into an upright position, her eyes meeting his. “Can I wear something from TJ Maxx?”

“You can wear whatever you want.”

“Then I suppose I should bite that bullet.”

“Nice," he smiled. "I’ll make arrangements shortly, but until then," he paused, pulling her close for a long, lingering kiss. "Can I give you something else to bite?"

Casey let out a squeal as he began to tickle her. Jumping to her feet, she rushed to the stairs. "I'll race you to your bedroom!"

"Bedroom?" he challenged. "We're all alone. We don't need to go to the bedroom."

"Bedroom!" she hollered, her voice echoing down the stairs.

"Then bedroom it is," he grinned. "I'm right behind you!"

(And a good time was had by all! lol - Thanks for reading!)

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[jerzwriter]

Mostly Pleasant Surprises 3 of 4 The Best Laid Plans

This is the final installment of "how they finally got together." I promise. 😊

Book: Open Heart (Book 2 Timeline) Pairing: Tobias Carrick & Casey MacTavish (F!MC) Rating: Teen

Series Summary: It's been months since the chemical attack, and "kind of" exes-turned-friends Tobias & Casey have been stubbornly denying their growing feelings for each other. But when a series of events threatens to come between them, will they find their way back together?

Part 3 Summary: Casey's friends are determined to get her and Tobias together at long last. When Bryce has a chance encounter with Tobias, it seems like all systems are go. Will they get the fairy tale ending they deserve?

A/N: Graduations and family events are over; I'm getting my babies together! For the 2 fans still remaining, I hope you enjoy the final two parts as much as I've enjoyed writing them!

Series Masterlist || Tobias x Casey Masterlist Full Masterlist

Casey was half asleep as she plodded through the cafeteria.  She never showed up this early for work, and it showed.

“Excuse me,” an intern apologized, even though it was Casey who had tripped into him.

But the exhausted resident was too tired to care. After muttering something nasty about interns under her breath, her eyes went wide. If she didn't watch herself, she would morph into Ethan Ramsey! In the distance, Bryce and Jackie waved her to their table. Delighted to see friendly faces, she rushed to join them.

Bryce eyed the food on his friend’s tray with disgust. “What... the hell is that?”

“Breakfast!"

“On what planet? A scoop of grey cottage cheese, artificially flavored orange Jell-O, chocolate milk, and a package of Fruit Loops.” Bryce looked up in horror. “Are you pregnant?”

A bark of laughter escaped her. “Please! There’s a better chance of Sister Agatha from St. Joseph’s being knocked up than me.”

“How can you be so sure?” Jackie teased.

“Because if God wanted a vessel for another immaculate conception, I assure you, he’d choose Sister Agatha over me.”  

“Ouch,” Bryce winced, placing one of his pancakes on Casey’s plate. “Don’t be so hard on yourself. God could do much worse than you.”

“What’s the pancake for?”

“I don’t know,” he smiled. “Do you really want to eat any of the crap on your plate?”

Casey looked down at her plate with a sigh. “No. I’m so tired, I didn’t even know what I was grabbing.”

“Why so tired?” Jackie asked. “You were already in bed when I got home last night.”

Casey went to answer but couldn’t find words. Sitting with her mouth agape, Sienna slid into the seat beside her and saved the day.  

“She wasn’t feeling well last night... she went to bed early but was up and down a lot.”

“In that case, why don’t you take a sick day?” Bryce asked. “Ethan knows you’re still easing back into work. I don’t think he’d mind.”

Casey mumbled something unintelligible as she stuffed a forkful of pancakes into her mouth.

“Uh, come again?” Bryce asked.

“I said, I doubt Ethan would be all right giving me the day off to get over Tobias.”

“Over Tobias?” Jackie asked with a raised brow. “I’ve been waiting for you to be under Tobias. When did this happen?”  

 “Casey saw something online last night,” Sienna jumped in. “But we don’t have all the facts.”

“Online?” Bryce asked protectively. “What exactly did she see... online?”

“It’s nothing,” Casey stated. “Tobias was on a date, that’s all. But it doesn’t matter... he and I are just friends. So, it doesn’t matter.”

Jackie was already scrolling through her socials to find the damning post as Bryce looked pointedly at Sienna for more details.

“We don’t know that he was on a date!” Sienna insisted. “A nurse from Kenmore posted something that alluded to that, but I have my doubts."

“Nurse’s name?” Jackie asked.

“Audrey Kenner,” Sienna replied before Casey could stop her.

“There’s nothing daming on her Insta now. Are you sure it was there?”

“It was there,” Casey spat. “Trust me.”

“Yeah, but it’s gone now,” Sienna tried to placate. “That tells me something is fishy! You can’t jump to conclusions.”

Bryce nodded in agreement. “Sienna’s right. Everyone knows he's crazy about you. Talk to him.”

“It doesn’t matter,” Casey said, dropping her fork to her plate with an exasperated sigh. “It doesn’t matter because we’ve only been friends, and that’s what we’ll stay.”

She ignored her friends eyeing each other but took the opportunity to steal a second pancake from Bryce’s plate.

“Fine,” Jacie shrugged. “Fairy tales are overrated anyway. But you should get yourself back in the game. It’s bad for your complexion to be celibate this long.”

“What?” Casey huffed, rubbing her face. “My complexion is fine!”

“For now,” Jackie said without missing a beat. “But you’re in the danger zone.”

“Then I’ll up my skincare routine. Because I’ve decided to focus on work... my career. Who needs the other shit, anyway?”

“You do,” Bryce interjected. “Come on, Case. All the work and no play make Jane a very dull girl. That’s never been my Casey.”

“Well, near-death experiences have a way of changing outlooks.”  

“What have you changed your outlook on?” Elijah asked, joining the table.

“Casey’s going to remain celibate for life,” Jackie said as Elijah erupted into laughter.

“Sure she is!”  

“You know,” Casey said, pushing away from the table. “I’ve really had enough. If you’ll excuse me, I have work to do.”

“Casey... come back,” Sienna called, but Casey marched right out the door.

“Nice work, Greene,” Bryce groaned.

“What did I do?” his friend wailed.

“Nothing,” Sienna sighed. “Casey’s just nursing a broken heart.”

“A broken heart?” Elijah asked. “Who broke her heart?”

“The internet,” Jackie deadpanned.

“I think she has the wrong idea about Tobias,” Sienna stated.

“Are we sure it’s the wrong idea?” Elijah asked.

“No,” Sienna replied. “But I’m pretty confident. The only way to know is to ask him, but Casey refuses.”

“So,” Elijah shrugged. “Ask him yourself.”

“I’m not going to overstep like that!” Sienna insisted. “It’s up to her to ask if she wants to.”  

“You’re right,” Bryce insisted. “And if she doesn’t... maybe it means she is over him.”

Jackie let out a laugh. “You know she’s not over him! The girl was all googley eyes looking at him not two days ago.”

“Of course she’s not,” Bryce replied. “I was being facetious.”

“She’s scared,” Sienna countered. “She’s had her heart broken a lot... her college boyfriend, her med school girlfriend, by he of whom we shall not speak of at Edenbrook, and even by Tobias last year. It’s not surprising that she’s protecting herself.”

“So,” Elijah grinned. “What do you say we force her hand?”

“And how do you suggest we do that?”

“If she’s so over T, let’s hook her up with someone else!”

“Terrible idea,” Bryce grimaced.

“Yeah,” Sienna agreed. “That wouldn’t work.”

But Jackie was intrigued. “It could. What do you have in mind, Elijah?”

“That new guy that signed up for the softball team.”

“Oh! The hottie from Radiology!” Sienna enthused as a smug Elijah nodded.

“That’s him!”

“I’ve seen him,” Bryce shrugged. “I’m unimpressed. Besides, Casey doesn't even know him."

“Not yet,” Elijah grinned. “But if we talk him up... offer to set them up?”

“It’s brilliant!” Jackie jumped in. “She'll realize she has no desire to see anyone else, and it’ll force her to face the fact that she wants Tobias.”

“Since when do you care about other people’s love lives?” Bryce asked.

“I don’t. But I’m invested in this... I’ve been watching those two circle each other for months and I deserve the payoff."

“Don’t do it,” Bryce warned.

“Too late,” Elijah grinned, looking up from his phone. “I just texted nurse Sarah who confirmed radiology hottie is single, and he was asking her about Casey just the other day.”

“Great,” Bryce sighed. “So he has a thing for Casey. Let’s use him to trick her into seeing she has a thing for Tobias. Except she already knows she has a thing for Tobias; she’s just too scared to address it. What could go wrong here?  This isn’t a dumpster fire waiting to happen.”

“You are such a drama queen,” Jackie griped. “Elijah, you know him... talk to him about Casey. I’ll start to upsell radiology hottie at home tonight. By the way, does he have a name?”

“Jake,” Elijah smiled. “You know he’s a nice guy... worst case scenario, Casey falls for him instead.”

“Yeah,” Bryce shook his head. “That’s the worst-case scenario.”

“Relax, Lahela,” Elijah laughed. “When we’re heading to their wedding one day, you won’t be able to say you played a part in getting them together.”

“Whose wedding are we speaking about, exactly?”

“Casey & Tobias’s!” Jackie spat. “Duh!”

“Knock yourselves out, guys,” Bryce said, stepping away. “But count me out of this.”

~~~~~

Across town, Tobias was just beginning to wake up and eagerly reached for his phone, disappointed to see Casey had yet to respond. He instinctively shot her another text, and when he didn't hear back a few hours later, he tried once more.

Casey picked up her phone when it buzzed in her pocket... she knew Tobias was persistent. He was bound to show up if she didn’t answer, so she shot a text his way...

She felt her stomach turn, and her eyes went moist. Great, she thought. He needs to tell me... tell me he’s been dating Audrey. She was angry at herself for letting this bother her so much. All she wanted to do was cry.  But there was no avoiding this. Maybe biting the bullet and confirming her worst fears was the way to go. But not during the work week... she had just returned to work and didn't need the distraction.

~~~~~

The next few days passed in a blur; before they knew it, it was Friday night, also known as Pizza Friday, at the roomies. Jackie & Elijah’s attempt to sell Jake was now entering day three, but Casey was still not biting.

“No,” she stated firmly.

“Why not!” Jackie demanded. “Look,” she held her phone with a picture of the handsome radiologist in Casey's face. “Look at him! He’s adorable! He’s got that dopey, doe-eyed look so many of you chicks go crazy for and blue eyes. Not for nothing, I’ve noticed blue eyes are your thing.”

“So? Go out with him yourself?” Casey shrugged.

“Meh, you know guys are just a passing interest to me,” Jackie replied.

“Well, for the hundredth time, I’m not interested either.”

“You know, you snooze, you lose,” Elijah smiled. “A hottie like that won't be on the market for long.”

“Would you stop calling him a hottie!” Casey cringed. “And I’ll take my chances... the answer is still no.”  

“Guys...” Sienna attempted to intervene, but Jackie spoke over her.

“Because you’re not over Carrick.”

Elijah’s and Sienna’s heads flung toward Casey, and if looks could kill, they’d be planning Jackie’s wake.

“There’s nothing to get over,” she said through clenched teeth.

Jackie was undeterred. “Look, the Casey I know would have been all over this. It’s time to get back out there, hon. And if Carrick isn’t a thing, what’s the harm in talking to the guy? Worst case scenario, you tell him you're not interested."

“She’s not wrong,” Elijah agreed. “It doesn’t even have to be a “date date.” You can just happen to be at Donahue’s at the same time; you grab a beer together....”

“No!”

“Fine,” Jackie snapped. “But when you die alone surrounded by seventy-five cats, don’t say I didn’t warn you!”

“I happen to like cats,” Casey smirked.

“Well, Jackie may be giving up, but I’m not,” Elijah insisted. “I’m sorry, Casey, but I think this one has real potential!”

“I’m not giving up!” Jackie yelled as Sienna unsuccessfully attempted to change the subject once again.

Casey's head pounded as the three friends continued to bicker. She rubbed her temples as the noise and the monotony continued.

“Fine! Fine!” She yelled. “If I share a beer with this guy, smile, and go home... do you promise to never discuss this again?”

“Absolutely,” Jackie beamed.

“Then make it happen. But I’m just doing this to shut the two of you up. It's not a date! Is that clear?”

“Crystal!” Elijah grinned. “Just leave it to us.”

~~~~~

Casey sat hunched over the bar. Her lack of enthusiasm was impossible to miss as she downed her third beer of the night. Her dutiful sidekick, Sienna, hadn’t left her side, still trying to make her best friend smile.

“If it makes you feel better, I think Jake is working tonight. So they probably won't spring him on you today."

“It doesn’t matter,” Casey sighed. “I just wanted some time out with my friends, and their stupid quest isn’t helping at all.”

Sienna placed a comforting hand on Casey’s shoulder. “Their hearts are in the right place, but their brains... not so much.”

“Well, if they spring him on me tonight, I’m ready,” Casey grinned, gesturing toward her attire. “See this? My rattiest, oldest jeans, accompanied by my shittiest sweatshirt! The messy bun and minimalist makeup complete my look."

"And what look is that?" Sienna laughed.

"I call it... I'm not interested."

“You jerk. You’re still prettier than just about anyone in the room. So that plan is a major fail!”

“I don’t care,” Casey shrugged, her mood slipping even lower; then, she spoke in just a whisper. “I’m having lunch with Tobias tomorrow.”

“You are!” Sienna enthused. “That’s great news!”

“Don’t get hopes up,” Casey frowned. “He said he had to talk to me.... he’s going to tell me about Audrey.”

Sienna let out a long sigh. “Do you know this for a fact?”

“Yes.”

“How?”

“I just do.”

“Casey,” her friend winced. “Sometimes, you’re your own worst enemy.”

Casey motioned to Reggie for another beer... and she didn’t even like beer.

“I can’t do it again, Si. I’ve had my heart broken one too many times. What kind of an idiot falls for Tobias Carrick... Boston’s biggest playboy who’s already hurt me once. Tomorrow, when he tells me about Audrey, I will smile and wish him the best, and then I’m moving on. I... I can't do this again.”

“Casey....” Sienna whimpered.

“My mind is made up.”

“All right then,” Sienna said, swirling her drink. “Then you do what you need to do.”

“Casey?”

She felt a tap on her shoulder and turned around to find an incredibly handsome man with the kindest eyes she’d ever seen standing behind her. Even sitting, she could tell he’d stand a good half-foot above her 5’9” frame. “A little bird told me I’d find you here,” he smiled.

“Mmm hmm," she hummed, playing it cool. "Was the little bird’s name Elijah or Jackie?”

“I won't give them away," he grinned. "But, I can already tell I’m going to be thanking them soon. What are you drinking?”

“Blue Moon,” she said, nodding toward the bottle Reggie just delivered.

“Well, this one is on me.”

She should have gone home. She knew she wasn’t interested in anyone whose name wasn’t Tobias Carrick. But that familiar ache in her chest told her another heartbreak was just hours away. With that on the horizon, would it be so bad to give this man a chance?

“Would you like to grab a booth?” Jake asked.

Casey grabbed her beer from the bar, stepped off her stool, and sauntered past him. “This isn’t a date,” she smirked.

“I never said it was. But if I play my cards right... maybe the next one will be.”

She found herself smiling despite herself. “You have one hour."

That hour went by in a flash. Even if Casey would have noticed it ended, she wouldn’t have been inclined to point it out. Jackie and Elijah were right. Jake was delightful. Smart - he graduated top in his class from Harvard Medical – followed by a residency at Hopkins. He had already published more than physicians twice his age, and Edenbrook considered snagging his a coup. Still, he couldn't have been more humble. He was easy to talk to and far more interested in talking about her than himself, though she managed to get her questions in. He was very close with his younger sister, who had turned him into a bonafide Swiftie. As he talked, Casey couldn't help but think this guy checked every single box. He was perfect for her, everything she ever thought she wanted, and she was decidedly not interested.

She might regret passing up this opportunity one day; she was sure she'd be discussing this with her shrink. But, no matter how mesmerizing his blue eyes were, they weren't the ones she wanted to be gazing at. Jake's shy, unassuming charm was the polar opposite of Tobias’s confident swagger... but how she missed it.

“What do you say,” Jake asked, pointing to her empty bottle. “I realize my hour is up, but would you care for another?”  

“Sure," she smiled. "What's the harm in one more.”  

~~~~~

Tobias looked good. Too good. In his black cashmere coat, herringbone gaberdine pants, and black turtleneck, he was well overdressed for a Saturday night at Whole Foods. He was picking up a few items and then had the night free. He considered stopping by the Puddingstone. Seeing some old friends wouldn’t be the worst idea, and maybe it would keep him from counting the hours until he’d see Casey tomorrow. He just reached the checkout area when someone called out his name.

“Lahela,” Tobias grinned, extending his hand.

“You can call me Bryce.”

“Sometimes I do,” he smiled, taking notice of the younger man’s scrubs. “Just getting off shift?”

“Yeah! It was a long day. I can’t wait to get home and get some sleep.”

“On a Saturday night?” Tobias mocked. “Come on, Lahela! You’re too young and too good-looking for that... you should absolutely have a date.”

“Is that why you're so dressed up?" Bryce asked.

“Excuse me?”

Bryce exaggeratedly sniffed the air. “Is that Tom Ford? And those clothes.... not exactly a going home after grocery shopping look.”

“Nah,” Tobias chuckled. “No dates for me. At least... not tonight.”  

“It’s Casey... isn’t it?”

Tobias looked startled as a brief silence fell between them.

“You two drive me crazy,” Bryce sighed. “Everyone can see you're crazy about each other.... and you'd be perfect together... so why don’t you tell her how you feel already?”

“Well, as fate would have it, that's exactly what I was planning to tell her tomorrow at lunch.”

“Nice!” Bryce beamed, patting Tobias on the back. “Finally! I’ve gotta give you credit, though.”

“Credit? For what?”

“Your patience! If I was about to tell the person I loved that I was crazy about them, I’d rush to do it as soon as possible. I wouldn’t be able to wait. You’re much cooler than me, Carrick.”

Tobias’s eyes went distant. “You know what... you’re right.”

“I am?”

“You’re absolutely right. I’ve been waiting long enough; why should I wait any longer?” He grabbed a bunch of loose bills from his pocket and tossed them into his basket.  “Can you take care of this?”

“Sure!” Bryce insisted. “Just...go! Go! But where should I bring your groceries?”

“I don’t care,” Tobias hollered. “I’ll call you later!”

“All right,” Bryce grinned at the cashier as he pulled out his phone. “Si? Who is the man?”

“I’m assuming you’re the man?” Sienna replied.

“Oh, I am absolutely the man!”

“Good to know,” Sienna laughed. “Now, why are you the man?”

“Jackie and Elijah had all those bullshit games, but who is the one who got Tobias to finally tell Casey the truth? ME!”

“Bryce.... what talking about”

“I ran into him at Whole Foods. A sixty-second conversation with me, and our boy is running off for a romcom-worthy ending.”

“Running off to tell Casey?” Sienna asked with concern. “Where is he running to?”

“To Donahue’s...she’s still there, right?”

“He’s heading there NOW?” Sienna yelled.

“Yes, now... why is there....”

“Oh, no! No, no, no, no, no!” Sienna was already slipping on her sneakers. “I have to get back there. I have to call Casey....”

“Wait, why? Oh, no....” Bryce gasped. “They didn’t set up that thing with the radiology stud for today, did they?”

“YES! Casey was so sure Tobias was telling her he’s with Audrey tomorrow that she agreed to have a few drinks with him.”

“Oh, shit!” Bryce cursed. “I’m heading over there now.”

“Not if I get there first!”

~~~~~~

The ride from Whole Foods to Donahue’s went by in a flash, and if fate wasn’t smiling on him enough, Tobias found a parking a few doors away. In Boston!  It was reminiscent of the day when he met Casey at the deli; a spot had been waiting for him as if it was bringing him to his future. It was all coming together.

He smiled as he took in a deep breath of the cold, New England air, making sure he memorized everything about the night. The way the streetlights sparkled on the icy patches on the sidewalk, the old Celtic tune blaring from inside the bar—he wanted - needed - to remember every moment of this night.

So, this was what it felt like? He had successfully avoided it for nearly four decades, never understanding what all the fuss was about. But here he was—Tobias Carrick was in love. He had dreamt of telling her for some time, and as he reached for the door, he couldn't believe the moment was finally here.

Sienna was in an Uber, not chancing this to public transit. She dialed Casey a dozen times on the ride there and tried Jackie and Elijah, too... but nothing. Bryce was already running to the bar, grocery bags in hand; his messages to Tobias had gone unanswered as well. Inside Donahue's, Casey and Jake’s conversation continued under the dim lights and the haze of one too many beers.  

“Are you a Disney fan?” Jake asked.

“I'm not anti-Disney, but I’m not obsessed.”

“Tsk. That’s too bad,” Jake frowned. “Maybe we'll go to Disney World together one day, and I could help change your mind.”

“That would be a hard sell,” Casey grinned. Jake was a nice guy... a really nice guy... and this wasn't right. Even if Tobias was about to break her heart, experience told her that she'd be better off taking some time before seeing anyone else, and she could tell Jake deserved better.

“I have a few friends who are Disney freaks. If you’d like, I’d be happy to introduce you.”

Jake deflated a bit but quickly picked himself up. “Hey, if Disney is hard no, I will happily give up the Mouse for you.”

“It’s not that,” Casey smiled. “You seem like a great guy, Jake, and if this was another time, I might let you attempt to make me a Disney convert. But I’m still dealing with the after-effects of the chemical attack... and I’m not quite over someone I loved... so it's not a good time for me to begin seeing anyone."

“I understand,” Jake smiled. “And I appreciate your honesty. But we can still be friends, right? Because I hardly know anyone in Boston.”

“You’ve got a deal,” Casey smiled, extending her hand over the table to shake his hand. The handshake lingered a little too long, and with their hands intertwined, Casey smiled and turned toward the door.

Timing. Life was always about timing. After months of meaningful conversations, long rides, hugs, and occasional kisses, after all the tenderness they shared, the time was finally here. He could have told her dozens of other times, or she could have told him, but this was the moment fate had brought them to; he was going to do it. His heart was so full he worried it might burst, and then...it did.

The packed room seemed to fall silent as he stared at the woman he loved, and his face turned to stone. Her smile, her laugh, that light in her eyes... but she wasn’t looking at him. Maybe it’s not what it seems, a voice inside him pleaded, but that didn't stop his heart from sinking. He was nauseous, and his legs felt like gelatin beneath him. Maybe this was the flipside. This was why he had avoided it for so long. Dating was fun. Sex was fun. But relationships? Love? They were work. Work punctuated with heartache, and he successfully avoided them until he met her. Casey... his precious Casey, sitting no more than a few yards away, her face flushed as she held the hand of another man. Had he imagined everything before today?

Casey looked around the room, and the blood drained from her face as she locked eyes with Tobias.

“Hey, are you OK?” Jake asked.

“Yes... I’ve just... give me a minute.”

She rushed toward Tobias, who wished he could have lurched for the door, but it was too late; there was no choice but to face her.

“Tobias!” she yelled. Breathless, with a genuine grin when she reached him. “What are you doing here?”

“Nothing,” he said, acting as nonchalant as he could. But as his eyes darted back to the table and Jake, realization washed over Casey.

“Oh, Tobias! Wait... let me explain...”

“There’s nothing to explain,” he replied with a level of coolness that shook Casey to her core.

“No... you don’t understand,” she insisted. “I want to explain because you should know that....”

“You’re on a date,” he shrugged. “That’s cool. Nothing wrong with that.”

“There’s.... there’s not?” She swallowed, her eyes beginning to glisten, and she suddenly felt much smaller than she was.

“Nope. It’s a good thing... it means you’re really ready to be back out in the world again.”

“Well, I am, but that's not what....”

She grasped his arm with desperation, but Tobias gently pushed it away.

“We’re friends. Right? We haven't been more than that since we broke up last year. You don’t owe me any explanation.”

“Oh,” she whispered, diverting her eyes so he wouldn't see the impact of his words. “I see...”

“Go have fun, Case. We’ll talk soon.”

“T...Tobias...” she called after him. “Are we still on for tomorrow?”

“Actually, I wanted to tell you that I got called into work. I’ll have to take a rain check.”

“Oh... but wait! You said you wanted to tell me something... tomorrow... what... what was it?”

He took a deep breath as he stepped toward her, steeling himself as he gently touched her shoulders. He never thought of himself as a skilled actor, but he had to pull out all the stops tonight. He would have made his college drama teacher proud.

“I was going to tell you that now that you’re back to work... and you’re doing well... you don’t need me as a crutch anymore.”

“Tobias!" She interrupted. "I never thought of you as a crutch! I hope that’s not the impression I gave!”

“Of course not,” he smiled, brushing a stray strand of hair away from her face. “But it’s time for us to move on... that's what I wanted to tell you... but... it looks like we already have. Now, I really have to go.”

She wanted to run after him, but her feet felt like they were glued to the floor. What had he just told her? All she could do was stand in stunned silence as the man she loved bolted out the door. He had barely taken ten steps outside when Bryce ran up to him.

“Hey,” Bryce gasped, attempting to catch his breath. “Did... did you see Casey?”

“I did,” Tobias grunted. “And now, I’m heading home.”

“Wait... what happened?”

Tobias remained silent, his demeanor like steel as he opened his car door.

“Tobias!” Bryce hollered. “I don’t know what happened in there, but I know Casey, and I know she's crazy about you."

“It doesn’t matter," Tobias said with a wave of his hand. "Sometimes, the universe gives us signs and tonight, it delivered a neon sign to me.  Now, if you’ll let go of my door... I really want to go home."

~~~~

Casey grabbed her coat from the rack, then rushed to the front door in tears.

“Casey!” Sienna hollered, grabbing her by the arm. “Where are you going? What happened?”

“Si,” Casey wailed. “I just... I just want to go home.”

Noticing the commotion, Jackie raced across the room. “Hey, what happened? I saw Tobias was here... what did he say?"

“It doesn’t matter!” Casey cried. “I told you, I’m an idiot... now, please... I need to go home.”

Sienna was already buttoning up her friend's coat. “Then that’s exactly where I’m taking you, sweetie. Don’t worry, I’ll get you there.”

“I’ll come, too,” Jackie added nervously, but Sienna held up a hand to stop her.

“No.  Not now. I think you’ve done enough for tonight.”

~~~~~~~

Tobias tossed his keys on the side table as he entered his townhome. The place had never felt this cavernous, this quiet, this empty. He walked to the sideboard and poured himself a tumbler full of whisky, downing it quickly before pouring a second. He brought the decanter with him when he retreated to his couch; sitting in the darkness, he hoped the alcohol would begin to numb the thoughts in his head, and he prayed that when he woke up tomorrow, he'd revert to the man he once was... with no memory of the foolish one he had become. Minutes turned to hours, and by the time he decided to rise, he nearly had to crawl up the stairs to his room.

He collapsed into his bed, fully dressed, only taking a moment to kick off his shoes. He pulled his phone out of his pocket and scoffed when he saw a text from Casey.

"This was a horrible experiment," he groaned, deleting her message before reading a word. He pushed a button next to his bed, and a buzzing noise surrounded him as his shades came down, ensuring light couldn't peek through until he was damn well ready to let it.

He looked at his phone again, squinting to see another message that had come in. This one was from Audrey, and in this state, he considered replying; the company might do him good. But stopped himself. Audrey, like Casey, was now in the past, and that's where the past belonged. It's not like he didn't have other options. Tomorrow was a new day, and he was determined to come back to life when the sun rose. It was time to move on.

(OK we're almost there... almost. I promise :) )

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.