#Ethan ramsey

[liaromancewriter]

The Glasses Effect

Premise: Cassie can’t get enough of seeing Ethan with his glasses on.

Fandom: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Words: 610

A/N: I'm baaaccckkkk! I've been thinking of writing this fic for ages. Finally found the time.

Intern year. Somewhere over South Carolina, 30,000 feet up.

It really was unfair. No man should be that handsome. His smile—when he bothered to show one—was already dangerous; his amused smirk, downright lethal. But when he slipped on his glasses, her ovaries melted.

Was it possible to get kicked out of the residency program for lusting after her boss? And if so, could she plead her case on the grounds of Dr. Ramsey’s effortless charm and the undeniable, climax-inducing effect of his glasses?

Cassie Valentine could already picture Harper’s reaction if she tried to use that excuse to justify her inappropriate behavior. Then again, given that the other woman had been his on-again, off-again lover for years, maybe she’d sympathize with her plight.

Because really, could anyone ever fully recover from witnessing Ethan Ramsey in glasses?

The way his blue eyes looked larger, perhaps even more intense behind the lenses, the dark ring around his pupils standing out in sharp relief. And how, for those few fleeting seconds after he removed his glasses, his gaze was mouthwateringly unfocused before snapping back to its usual laser-sharp intensity.

She knew he only wore glasses when reading or working on the computer. And she’d been lucky enough to catch him doing both. Like now.

After the flight attendant cleared their breakfast trays, Ethan pulled out a thick book from his carry-on—a historical nonfiction tome with a staid cover—and slipped on his glasses. He was so engrossed in his reading that Cassie felt safe stealing glances at him.

She furtively studied his profile in the seat beside her, the hum of the plane’s engine masking the rat-a-tat of her heartbeat. They were halfway to Miami, and she really needed a new hobby — one that didn’t involve fantasizing about joining the Mile High Club with the unattainable man next to her.

“Something wrong, Rookie?”

Cassie jolted, shaking off the lustful thoughts clouding her brain. Caught staring, she felt the heat creep up her neck as she met Ethan’s puzzled gaze.

Omigodomigodomigod. This could not be fucking happening to her!

“No, Dr. Ramsey.” Cassie shook her head, her voice husky as she swallowed the lump in her throat. When he continued staring at her, she knew he didn’t believe her. She blurted out the first thing that came to mind. “I was just wondering who’s looking after Dr. Banerji while you’re away.”

Peering over his lenses, Ethan looked amused, most likely at the nervous tremor she hadn’t been able to hide. He seemed to relish the effect he had on hapless interns.

“No one. He’s comfortably ensconced in his brownstone. Why? Did you think he was hidden away in the hospital’s unfinished wing twenty-four-seven?”

Cassie pursed her lips at his wry tone and shrugged. “He’s always there, so, yeah. What else was I supposed to think?”

“He’s been around more lately because we upped his dialysis treatment,” Ethan explained, using his index finger to hold his place in the book. “He needed a break for his body to recover, so this trip was well-timed.”

She nodded, but Ethan didn’t notice, already immersed in his book. Clearly, it was more interesting than talking to her.

Cassie haphazardly pressed buttons on the in-flight entertainment screen, anything to distract herself from him.

Then, suddenly, sunlight streaked across the screen, and there he was — his reflection, glasses and all, staring back at her as he read.

She fervently prayed that he’d keep those glasses off during the rest of their trip. Because if he didn’t, she couldn’t be held responsible for her actions.

Cassie had found her Kryptonite, and it wore glasses.

------------

All Fics & Edits: @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @jerzwriter @kyra75 @lady-calypso @loreofyore @peonierose @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @snoopdogcone @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @youlookappropriate

[jerzwriter]

Ethan and Kaycee have been through quite a bit together, and even if they're still a secret, they're very much together. But when Ethan realizes they missed a big dating milestone, he goes all out to fix that.

Book: Open Heart (Late Book 2 Timeline) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Kaycee MacClennan (F!MC) Rating: Teen Words: 2,230

A/N: Thank you to @peonierose for this ask about my pairing first dates. I never realized I never wrote an official first date for Ethan x Kaycee! Participating in @choicesjanuary2025 - Prompt: First Date. I didn't have a lot of time to proof - so I hope it's not too bad! lol :)

Ethan Ramsey didn’t get nervous. At least, that’s what he kept telling himself as he adjusted his tie for the tenth time. A pained look crossed his face as he checked his reflection in the mirror a final time. It still wasn’t right. “It’s a tie, Ramsey!” He cursed. “It’s not like you haven’t done this a thousand times before!”  But as he hastily tossed the offending object onto his bed, he settled on a more casual approach.

There was no reason to be nervous. Sure, he was going on a date – an important date – but it was just Kaycee. That’s when he stopped in his tracks. Of course that’s why... it was Kaycee.

This wouldn’t be a typical first date. There would be no getting to know each other, no auditioning for the coveted role of significant other. With more than a year’s worth of history under their belts, that was already taken care of. They had danced around their feelings as if they were avoiding a pathogen. They clung to their denial even as the longing consumed them. Then they came close... so close... only to backtrack again.

Through it all, Kaycee remained his constant, even when he hadn’t earned her loyalty. She comforted him after losing a dear friend and helped him save another. She had awoken parts of him he had buried long ago despite his best attempts to keep them underground. She saw him – the real him – and she loved him as he was. To reward her for her devotion, he ran off to the Amazon, enduring a brutal WHO mission to escape the inevitable. That’s how much she terrified him.

Or so he thought. While he hadn’t led the easiest life, he soon learned that he hadn’t known what true terror was. The night he held Kaycee’s gaunt frame in his arms and watched the light dim in her eyes, that’s when he knew. Unsure if she’d live to see the morning, he promised if she made it through, the time for running would be over. He’d face his fears and do everything in his power to let her know just how cherished she was... and he had.

For months now, they were finally together, albeit secretly. That was her wish, “Let’s keep this quiet until my residency is over, OK?” she insisted. It wasn’t his preference; it wasn’t even hers, but he understood why.

Last week, when Ethan realized their relationship was missing a crucial milestone – an official first date – he knew he had to remedy that, and no ordinary date would do. Now that the night was here, Ethan was determined to give Kaycee the kind of night she deserved. And that’s why he was so nervous... it had to be magic. She deserved nothing less.  

_____

Over at Kaycee’s apartment, she was a bundle of nerves herself. Sienna and Jackie had turned her tiny bedroom into a makeshift glam squad headquarters. Which was just as well; her hands were far too shaky to deal with makeup today.

“Stop fidgeting,” Sienna gently scolded, curling the last strand of Kaycee’s hair. “You’re going to ruin your makeup, and I’ll have to start all over again.”

“I still don’t get why you’re so worked up over this,” Jackie chimed in. “It’s Ethan. He helped save your life. You already know he loves you, and he’s provided you with mind-blowing orgasms. This improvised rom-com night is just to have something to tell your future rugrats – who I will refuse to watch – for the record.”

Kaycee shot her a look through the mirror. “Thanks, Jackie. Your romantic advice is greatly appreciated.”

Jackie smirked. “Hey, anytime.”

Sienna stepped back to admire her work. “Ta-Da! What do you think?”

Kaycee looked at her reflection. Her soft golden curls perfectly framed her face, her makeup was subtle but striking, and her midnight-blue dress hugged her curves in all the right places. “I think… I might be able to pull this off.”

“Pull it off?” Sienna laughed. “Looking like this, you may get a proposal!”

Kaycee laughed off that notion. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, now, Si!”

Just then, the doorbell rang. “Oh, crap! Is that him already?”

Jackie looked at her incredulously. “Kaycee... what’s the problem? You’re ready!”

“Jackie!” Sienna scolded. “Don’t make Kaycee more nervous than she already is! Go and tell Ethan she’ll be right out.”

With a roll of her eyes, Jackie headed to the front door, opening it with a smirk as she took Ethan in from head to toe. “Eh, I guess you clean up pretty well,” she acknowledged, kicking the door open. “Come sit in the living room, Prince Charming. Cinderella is just adjusting her glass slippers; she’ll be out in a minute.”

Ethan sat on the weathered couch, looking every bit the composed physician he was, even though he felt more like the nervous schoolboy he was decades ago. But when Kaycee stepped into the room, everything changed.

“Kaycee,” he gasped, his breath catching as he stood to greet her. “You look... you look...”

“She looks hot as fuck,” Jackie jumped in.

“Honestly, that works,” Ethan chuckled. “You’re stunning, Kaycee.”  

Kaycee blushed, tilting her head to the side. “You don’t look so bad yourself, Dr. Ramsey.”

“All right! All right!” Jackie scolded. “Please go on your date before you end up in her room and I need to put the white noise machine on to get any studying done.”

“She has a point,” Kaycee laughed, taking Ethan’s arm the second it was offered.

He escorted her to his car, a luxury sedan that was beginning to feel like her second home. Once they were seated inside, Kaycee turned to him with a teasing smile. “You realize taking me out like this comes with the risk of being spotted, right?”

He met her gaze with the confident look that often left her weak in the knees. “So, then we’re spotted,” he said, bringing her hand to his lips for a gentle kiss.

“Ethan,” Kaycee rebuffed, though her smile was sincere. “I told you. Only our closest friends can know about us until I finish my residency.”

“I’m well aware,” he grinned, leaning closer. “Don’t you trust me?”

“Yes…,” she sighed, rolling her eyes playfully. “Begrudgingly, but yes, I do.”

“Then just sit back and relax. Leave the night to me.”

_____  

The Boston cityscape whizzed by as Kaycee glanced out the window. “So, where are you taking me?” she asked.

“What fun would it be if I told you,” Ethan smiled as they pulled up to a heliport.

“A helicopter ride?” Kaycee said, her eyes wide. “What if I’m terrified of helicopters?”  

“Well, you’re not. You mentioned wanting to take a helicopter tour of Boston on the second day of your residency.”

Kaycee’s face glowed as she turned to him. “And you remembered that?”

Ethan’s face softened as he looked into her eyes. “When it came to you, Rookie, I paid attention. Right from the start.”

She leaned in to kiss him as they headed to the waiting chopper, her heart racing from the adrenaline and a tiny bit of fear.

“Are you nervous?” he asked.

“Me? Pfft!” She said with bravado. “I jumped out of a plane, you know?”

Now it was Ethan who was wide-eyed, “You what?”

She couldn’t help but giggle at his reaction. “I’ll tell you about it later,” she said, placing on her safety belt. “Come on! I can’t wait to get up there.”

As they ascended into the sky, the city they both loved unfolded beneath them, a tapestry of glistening lights shimmering in the night. It was even more beautiful than she imagined it would be. “Wow,” she whispered, her nose all but pressed against the glass. “This is… incredible! I can’t believe you thought of this!”

Ethan was delighted, and while Kaycee was captivated by the view, he only had eyes for her. Wrapping his arm around her, he whispered in her ear. “Only the best for you.”

The pilot pointed out the city’s iconic landmarks as they circled the night, and Kaycee couldn’t help but tease Ethan when Edenbrook Hospital was pointed out.

“So,” she said, elbowing him in the ribs. “Are we going to land on Edenbrook’s roof?”

“Sure,” he laughed. “That’s a great plan to keep our relationship under wraps.” He leaned in and kissed her, his heart more full than he ever imagined it could be. “Just sit back and enjoy the view. I want you to remember this.”

She quickly reassured him. “It would be pretty hard for me to forget.”

_____

A short time later, Ethan was behind the wheel of his car again when Kaycee began thanking him for such a lovely night.

“Wait. Do you think the night’s over?” He asked with a furrowed brow. “What kind of man would I be if I didn’t take you out to eat?”

“You would be a man who clearly doesn’t know that my love language is food!” Causing Ethan to laugh. But Kaycee wasn’t done. “All right, the helicopter was a great way to have a ‘secret’ date. But we can’t exactly march into one of Boston’s finest restaurants dressed like this without being outed.”

“MacCLennan,” he groaned. “Please. Trust me.”

He parked his car and opened Kaycee’s door, walking to a marina nearby.

“What is that?” she asked as Ethan pointed to a massive yacht anchored just yards away, its sleek bow glistening under the moonlit sky.

“It’s a boat,” he deadpanned.

“Thank you, Captain Obvious. I know it’s a boat, but I thought you were going to feed me?”

“Oh, I am,” he insisted. “I’ve seen you hangry, and honestly, if that happens, I can’t guarantee you a second date.”

Kaycee’s playful punch landed on his arm a bit harder than anticipated, and he let out a little scream. “OUCH!” he yelled.

“You know, I think you’re on to something with that hangry thing, Ramsey,” she winked. “So I hope this ship has some snacks?”

“Snacks?”  He asked. “Do you really think I’m going to offer you snacks on our first date? I can do better than that,” he grinned as he escorted her onto the yacht.

A tuxedoed man greeted them upon entering. “Good evening, Dr. Ramsey, Dr. MacClennan.”

“Wait, is this a restaurant?” Kaycee asked.

“Not exactly,” Ethan smirked as they walked into a stunning room surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows. A candlelit table was in the center, and Ethan pulled out Casey’s chair as the boat began to sail with the Boston skyline twinkling behind them. “Since we aren’t ready to go public yet, I thought privacy was of the utmost importance, and this is as private as it gets.”  

“Wait,” she said, a little crinkle above her nose. “You...”

“Rented the yacht, hired a chef and a wait staff for the ultimate private dining. Yes,” he said with a satisfied grin. “That’s exactly what I did.”

Casey’s mouth hung open, her hand over her chest. “Ethan!” She gushed, “This is... unbelievable! You know that you were going to get lucky at the end of our date no matter what, right? You didn’t have to go to these extremes.”

“Well, If I had known that, I could have saved a pretty penny,” he laughed, taking her hand across the table. “Kaycee, we had quite an... eventful... start to our relationship, and we still have challenges... like having to conceal our feelings for a bit longer. And you’ve handled everything with such grace. You deserve this. I wanted our first “official” date to be an extra special night. I hope I delivered.”

“Ethan Ramsey,” she beamed, squeezing his hand. “You have more than delivered!”

The waiter served all of Kaycee’s favorite dishes: lobster bisque, shrimp scampi, then homemade pasta and braciole.

“Wait!” she said when that last item was served. “This looks awfully familiar!”

“That’s because it’s your mother’s,” Ethan advised. “I knew no one would make it as good as she does, so she made a batch, and I had it flown in from Philly.”

 “Flown in from Philly?” she yelled. “Ethan! Isn’t that a little... over the top? I appreciate it, but...”

He held a forkful of the dish up to her mouth. “Do you want to continue complaining, or would you prefer to eat?”

“Eat!” She said, groaning with delight as she took a bite. “Definitely eat.”

When the final course arrived—a box of pizza from her favorite Boston spot, Pizzaria Regina —Kaycee burst out laughing. “Ethan! Are you kidding? I can’t possibly eat another bite!”

“Good,” he said, leaning closer. “Because we have the yacht for the night. It has a bedroom, you know, and I have some ideas for how we can work off dinner. But I know you... you’ll want a snack after.”  

She laughed, nudging him playfully. “What about dessert?”

He smirked. “That is dessert. Though there are cannolis and cupcakes, too.”

“Cannolis and cupcakes?” She gasped. “I think I’ve died and gone to heaven.”

“You might want to wait for the bedroom course to make that declaration,” he teased with an affectionate grin.

Kaycee leaned in and kissed him. “You’re something else, Dr. Ramsey. I’m so lucky you’re mine.”

“And you’re perfect, Dr. MacClennan. So you deserve a perfect ‘first date.’ Did I deliver?”

“I think so,” she winked. “But let’s get to that bedroom course. It’s the only way I can say for sure.”

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[jamespotterthefirst]

Call it What You Want (Ethan x f!MC)

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey and MC (Lilac Allende)

Word Count: 2.2K

Rating/Warning: T/ Some Language

Summary: After their kiss, they both agree to take a break enjoying the city of Miami. Set after the events of 1.10.

Note: Two things about me: I will always write about Miami and I am manifesting Reputation (TV)

A faint pink glow seeped through the drawn curtains that morning, indicating it was right before sunrise. Lilac rolled over on the mattress, groaning. Her head felt like lead as she struggled to find comfort on the fluffy hotel pillow. Her stiff muscles protested as she moved, a side effect of a long and restless night. She had lost track of the time when the rolling waves outside had finally lulled her to sleep. It couldn’t have been more than three hours ago.

Now, she lay awake in the rosy-hued and desolate hotel room. Try as she might, she couldn’t stop her gaze from wandering to the closed door. Every nerve in her body was too aware of the fact that just on the other side, Ethan lay on the living room’s couch, most likely awake too. 

Was he replaying their kiss from the previous night like she had been doing all night? Did his thoughts stray to the way their bodies fit so perfectly or to how their hearts shared the same frenetic beat? 

With a resigned sigh, Lilac decided to start her day. There was no use lying in that cold bed, thinking of the sting of Ethan’s rejection. Temples pulsing, she hastily got dressed and quietly padded to the common area. The couch where he had slept was empty, his blanket already neatly folded. Something akin to relief flooded her at the prospect of avoiding him altogether. 

The universe, however, had other plans. A few steps further and Lilac saw his tall frame by the kitchen counter. He was in the middle of pouring himself a cup of coffee when he froze, sensing her.

He turned to face her and their eyes met, paralyzing them both.

The silence stretched for so long that Lilac thought he would opt for not speaking to her. 

“Morning,” he said at last. 

His tone was imperceptible, but Lilac could see the remnants of tension in his expression. The bags under his eyes told her he didn’t sleep well either.

“Morning,” she replied, careful to keep her voice neutral. 

There was more loaded silence, neither of them sure how to be around each other. A strange instinct in her gut screamed at her to say something… or run away— either option would be preferable to this awful limbo they were stuck in. At long last, Ethan set his cup down and cleared his throat.

“Our flight isn’t until tomorrow morning. I was thinking of heading downstairs and attending a few seminars.”

Lilac paused, unsure how to reply. The professional thing to do was letting him go his own way. Hell, she would probably benefit from burying herself in work. But the thought of sitting in long presentations or wandering the show floor made her muscles heavy with dread. There was something stubborn and unresolved between them and she knew she would know no peace until she addressed it head on.

“Actually,” she said before she lost her resolve. “I was thinking of taking a break from the conference…”

Ethan said nothing, waiting for her to continue. Lilac, meanwhile, gestured toward the floor-to-ceiling window framing the stunning Miami skyline. As the sun rose, it cast the sky into a mosaic of orange, pink, and blue. In the silence, they could hear the faint sounds of the city slowly coming to life to greet the day.

“I’ve never been to Miami before and today’s weather is supposed to be nice. Enjoying the city sounds a lot more enticing than being indoors all day.”

Ethan nodded once but said nothing more.

Swallowing, Lilac mustered the last dregs of her bravery. “Want to come with?”

He paused at that.

“Do you think that’s a good idea given…”

More of that unbearable silence ensued after he trailed off.

“Given what happened last night?” she finished for him. 

Ethan’s face flushed with color and she would have found it adorable in any other situation. He remained stoic and silent nonetheless. 

Lilac sighed. “Look, you don’t have to join me if you don’t want to,” she began. “But if we’re going to forget what happened last night, avoiding each other is not going to help.”

“Forget?” he asked quietly. 

Their eyes met. His gaze pinned her in place, something intense swirling in their depths. Lilac looked away, unable to handle it.

“Move past it,” she amended. Then she rushed through—“We will still have to see each other everyday and for that to work, we need to learn how to be around one another again.”

Ethan nodded, considering her words.

“A reset,” he said.

Lilac shrugged. “If you want to call it that. I see it more as a break.”

He seemed on the verge of being convinced.

“When was the last time you took one of those?” 

“I admit it’s been a while.”

“Then let’s change that.”

They strolled the streets of the city, admiring the vibrant colors of Miami. Everywhere Lilac looked, the air bloomed with color— the iconic art deco buildings they passed, the array of fruits in vendor stalls at the outdoor market, the vibrant art murals of Wynwood Walls. The city came alive in blooms of pinks, yellows, and blue. The bustling streets moved to the sounds of traffic, mixed with the rhythmic music drifting from the outdoor cafes they passed— salsa, merengue, bachata. It was all too familiar to Lilac yet new at the same time. 

Ethan walked beside her, in complete silence at first. The vibrant promise that the city painted for them, however, eventually melted the tension between them. 

“We have to go to Racoon Island,” Lilac said hours into their tour. 

“No.”

“Come on! It’s an island full of racoons,” she insisted, turning her phone's screen for him to see the pictures.

“I gathered that,” Ethan said, unimpressed. “That is precisely why I want to stay as far away from it as possible.”

“You’re no fun,” she said with mock disappointment. In reality, Lilac didn’t care what they did next. She was just so relieved their dynamic felt almost back to normal. 

They walked for a few more minutes before neither of them could resist the enticing smell of Cuban coffee wafting from the cafes all around. Soon, they found themselves seated in the outdoor patio of Café del Sol, a lively place facing the oceanfront. As they waited for their server, Ethan looked out at the waves, a pensive expression on his face.

“Where did you go?” Lilac asked quietly.

Ethan glanced at her, offering her a soft smile.

“Just... thinking. It’s been a while since I took time to do something like this. I’ve forgotten what it feels like to just... be.”

Lilac nodded, feeling a sense of connection that was almost painful. Their daily lives demanded so much from them that it was easy to completely lose all sense of self in the job. She too had forgotten what it was like to just enjoy the present moment without constant movement. 

“It’s nice,” she agreed. “Just living in the moment.” 

Ethan mulled over her words carefully. She could practically see the gears of his mind working. Almost as if by instinct, she knew he was thinking about last night and the road that had led to their kiss— living in the moment, forgetting about rules or duty.

“I’m enjoying it,” he finally allowed. “But things are still complicated. You and I—”

There it was. 

“Please,” she said in an almost whisper. “I understand we need to be careful. And there’s a lot we need to figure out. But maybe … we don’t have to have all the answers yet.” She sighed. “Maybe just for today, we can just… exist.”

For the first time since last night, Ethan visibly relaxed. “I can do that.”

A woman in her mid-50s approached them with a warm smile. She had short, dark hair, a patterned apron tied neatly around her waist, and eyes that crinkled at the corners with the warmth of hospitality.

“Good morning,” she greeted in accented English, holding a small notepad in one hand. “What can I get for you two today? Café con leche, perhaps? Best in town.”

Lilac smiled politely. “Buenos días,” she replied, switching seamlessly into Spanish. “Sí, un café con leche suena perfecto. ¿Y también un cortadito para él?”

The woman’s eyes brightened immediately, a wide smile spreading across her face. “¡Ah! ¡Hablas español!” she exclaimed, clearly delighted. Her words flowed faster now, full of warmth and energy. “Qué bien, mi niña. Entonces, dos cafés, uno con leche y un cortadito para el caballero. ¿Algo más?”

Realizing just how hungry she was, Lilac ordered more food than the two could finish—tostones, ropa vieja, empanadas, croquetas, maduros. 

Ethan leaned back in his chair, watching the interaction with amusement.  When the woman left to put their order in, he said, “I didn’t know your Spanish was that good.”

Lilac gave him a teasing glance. “Really? I’ve helped patients in Spanish right in front of you.”

He tilted his head, his eyes narrowing slightly, as if searching his memory. “Yes, but… this is different,” he said, his voice softening. “You look happy. Relaxed. You look good.”

Lilac paused, the compliment catching her off guard. The weight of the last few days seemed to momentarily lift as she felt the warmth in his gaze. Despite her plea to just enjoy the moment, her foolish heart could not be dissuaded. Not when Ethan had a tendency to see her—truly see her.

An hour later, Ethan sat back in his chair, watching as Lilac playfully mocked his Spanish for the third time since their food arrived. He allowed himself a smile, the teasing, light banter a welcome change from the tension that had hovered between them. She was right, of course. Her Spanish was flawless, flowing effortlessly as she ordered from the café earlier, while his was more… functional. He could get by in medical settings, communicate well enough, but nowhere near her level of ease.

“I swear, it doesn’t get easier than café con leche,” Lilac teased, shaking her head, but there was nothing but warmth in her voice.

He chuckled. “You make it look easy, Rookie.”

Her laughter filled the space between them, and for a moment, it felt like everything had settled back to normal. They were just two colleagues, sharing a meal, enjoying a break from the usual demands of their field. But as he watched her smile and the way her green eyes sparkled when she was at ease, the weight of everything that had happened between them pressed down on his chest.

Last night. 

God, last night.

He had wanted her for longer than Ethan was willing to admit even to himself. Somewhere along the line, the beautiful, intelligent, and intriguing Lilac Allende had woven herself into the fabric of his every thought. To this day, Ethan still couldn’t pinpoint the moment everything changed. For so long, he had kept himself in check, keeping his distance, hiding behind his professionalism. And yet, all those efforts crumbled the moment they kissed. 

They finished their meal, the laughter and teasing slowly giving way to a comfortable silence. 

Eventually, they wandered toward the beach, too full and drowsy from their meal to make much conversation. Ethan found he enjoyed the easy silence as they walked barefoot down the soft sand, shoes in hand. The peace of the moment served as a balm, soothing the restless thoughts that had been gnawing at him all night. 

“Thanks for convincing me to go out,” Ethan finally said, breaking the silence. “We needed this… the break. Just… being.”

Lilac smiled, recognizing her words from earlier. “Yeah. I think we both did.”

For a while longer, they walked side by side, neither in a rush to leave the moment behind. But eventually, the weight of their restless night and the early morning flight that awaited them began to settle in. They turned back toward the hotel, the reality of their return looming closer with each step.

When they reached their hotel room door, Ethan paused. His hand hovered over the handle, his body still, as if frozen in place. He didn’t know why he stopped—he just knew that something inside him wasn’t ready to cross that threshold yet.

Lilac glanced at him, her brow furrowing slightly. “What’s wrong?”

He didn’t answer right away.

Ethan knew, the second they stepped through that door, this brief, blissful reprieve would be over. Their lives—complicated, professional, and full of boundaries—would unpause, and they’d go back to pretending nothing had happened between them.

Lilac seemed to understand, even without him saying it. 

“It’ll be okay,” she said so quietly that Ethan thought he had imagined the words. “It has to be.”

But as Ethan stood there, watching her green eyes read his face, the realization hit him hard. It was foolish to think they needed a reset, a way to move past that kiss, to put it behind them. No matter how many boundaries and defenses he put up, there was no going back to the way they had been. At least, not for Ethan. 

Stealing a day for themselves only strengthened the roots of Ethan’s admiration for her. Watching her today, seeing her so at ease, hearing her laugh, seeing her face lit up by the sun—it had only made him want her more.

More than he ever should.

And he knew that no matter how much they tried to pretend, no matter how hard he tried to pull away, he was far too gone now.

Note: I don't know what that was! I'm just getting myself back in the habit of writing. Thank you for joining me on this ride!

[rainesenator]

how ethanmc singlehandedly increase edenbrook admission rates tbh

[cariantha]

Sweet December

Book: Open Heart, Book 2 (post-attack) Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Sawyer Brooks) Rating: General Category: Fluff, Christmas Word count: 1K Summary: Ethan eavesdrops on a conversation between Sawyer and her best friend. A/N: This fic was inspired by this Instagram reel and a little “Caption This” fun with a friend. It was meant to be an angsty fic, but then I listened to Sweet December by Brett Eldridge and Kelly Clarkson and changed directions. Merry Christmas!🎄

Events/Prompts: Participating in Winter Holidays 2024 hosted by @choicesholidays | Cuddling by the fireplace

With plans to spend their day off together, Ethan insisted that Sawyer come to his after her late-night shift at the hospital. The apartment was dark except for the glow of his bedside lamps, drawing attention away from the living room and the surprise he had set up for his girl. 

The tactic worked. An exhausted Sawyer entered the quiet apartment well after midnight and headed straight for the bedroom like a moth to the flame. After a quick kiss and a much-needed shower, she draped herself over Ethan’s body like a blanket and passed out within minutes. 

It was mid-morning when Sawyer padded into the kitchen, still a little groggy, with her phone pressed to her ear. Finding no evidence of Ethan's morning coffee, she assumed he was still at the gym, which was his usual weekend routine. 

“That sounds like so much fun. I’ve always wanted to visit New York during Christmas time…” Sawyer told the person on the other end of the line. “Maybe next year.”

When she put the phone on speaker so she could start the coffee, her best friend’s voice filled the room. 

“What about you? Are you going home to Arizona for Christmas?” Christian asked. 

“No. I love my family and know they are concerned, but they have been so overbearing that I’ve started dodging their calls,” she confessed. 

“Oof.” 

“I know,” Sawyer grimaced guiltily, “and I know they mean well, but I just need time to process things on my own. I can’t take any more time off, anyway. I just got back to work and need to catch up on my clinic hours. Besides, I’m looking forward to experiencing a Christmas like in the movies. You know, someplace cold enough that it snows, and you can cozy up by the fire and drink hot chocolate."

“Will you spend Christmas with Ethan, then?”   

From the living room, Ethan watched as Sawyer shrugged her shoulders. He’d been listening to their conversation while he lounged in front of the fireplace, waiting for her to turn around and notice him. 

"I don't want to assume, but I hope so," Sawyer answered softly, then sighed deeply. "God, Christian, I know it sounds so corny, but when I start feeling all upside down, he turns me right around."

"Awww..."

Ethan continued to watch and listen as she tinkered with the coffee machine. 

"We’re both working on Christmas, but a wintery night cuddling by the fire like we had at Dagger Mountain would be amazing. As for anything else, I think Ethan’s more the ‘spirit of Christmas’ type than the ‘holiday spirit’ type. Last year, when I came over to help with Naveen's case, I brought him one of those potted tabletop trees from the hospital gift shop because he didn't have a tree or a wreath or anything. It made me sad for him."  

Ethan raised his brows in surprise, then looked to the corner of the room where, the night before, he set a five-foot balsam fir into a tree stand. Boxes of ornaments and garland that the doorman helped carry into the apartment sat on the floor nearby.  

Christian chuckled. “You sound like Cindy Lou Who talking about the Grinch. Girl, he's been a bachelor for a long time. Guys don't care about that shit. Sam wouldn't bother either if it weren't for the boys."

"Yeah, I guess you’re right." 

A loud pop from the living room made Sawyer jump. She quickly spun around to find Ethan reclined in front of the fireplace. Christian’s voice faded into the background as Sawyer's senses awakened with the warmth of the roaring fire. The smell of fresh pine needles. The twinkling of white lights in the corner. The soft crooning of Bing Crosby’s “Silver Bells.” The taste of creamy chocolate and peppermint from the cup that Ethan walked over and offered her. 

“Sawyer? Hellooo… did I lose you?” 

Reaching for her phone, she apologized to her friend. “Sorry about that, um, Ethan just surprised me… Can I call you back later?” 

“Of course! I should go anyway. I think Sam and the boys are ready to leave for the ice rink.”

“Have fun and send me pics. Love you.”

“Love you, too, babe.”

Sawyer ended the call and set her phone aside. “Hi,” she greeted, standing on her tiptoes. 

“Morning,” Ethan answered, bending down to meet her halfway for a tender kiss. 

Gesturing to the living room, “What’s all this?”

“Since you're not going home for Christmas, I thought we could celebrate together. Here.” 

“Really?”

“Yeah, really,” he confirmed with a peck to her lips.

“I’d love that...” she blushed with embarrassment, “as you probably heard.” She wrapped her arms around his waist and looked at the glowing tree. “You bought a real tree?”

“Given your family’s Christmas tree business, I knew anything else would be considered sacrilege.”

She smiled up at him. “You remembered that?” 

“When it comes to you, I remember everything.”

Pressing herself tighter against him, Sawyer rested her cheek on his chest. “It’s so cozy in here. And look! It’s snowing outside.” Sawyer moved to sit on the sofa, tugging the sleeve of Ethan’s robe to get him to follow. “Come cuddle with me.”

Ethan sat, draping an arm over her shoulder, tucking her into his side. But just as they got comfortable, Ethan moved to stand up. 

“Where are you going?”

“I forgot,” he started, “I bought one of those big fluffy blankets you said I needed for cuddling on the couch. It’s in the hall closet.”

Sawyer smiled so big. “You are so sweet sometimes.”

“Sweet?! Uh-oh, my reputation for being a Grinch is in jeopardy.”

Reminded again that he heard every word of her conversation, she scowled at him. “Hasn’t anyone ever told you it’s rude to eavesdrop? You could have cleared your throat or something.”

Ethan winked, letting her know there was nothing to worry about. “Let me grab the blanket.”

“No,” she demanded, catching his hand before he walked away. Lying back, she pulled him down and on top of her. “A blanket’s good, but you’re even better.”

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @peonierose  @potionsprefect @trappedinfanfiction 

@jerzwriter @queencarb @coffeeheartaddict2 @quixoticdreamer16 @jamespotterthefirst 

@liaromancewriter @tveitertotwrites @tessa-liam @youlookappropriate @kyra75

@socalwriterbee @txemrn @midnightmelodiz @snoopdogcone

@rafasgirl23415

[gutsfics]

IS THAT SUPPOSED TO BE ETHAN????????????

also like not to mention that its CLEARLY ai

[tsrookie]

THIS IS ALL I'VE EVER NEEDED THEY'RE CANONICALLY LIVING TOGETHER THANK YOU😭😭

MC was just at home folks. We have our explanation.

[the-pale-goddess]

Someone very special and dear to their hearts…The one & only OH MC 😌

[potionsprefect]

Everything Has Changed

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Victoria Clarke

Word Count: 802

Summary: After the Senator attack, life at Edenbrook Hospital will never be the same

Rating: Teen

Category: Angst

The hospital was bustling like it always did but at this current moment in time, it was in the media spotlight. After the terrible events of the last 24 hours, Edenbrook was adjusting to a new normal.

Sienna Trinh looked out of the window of the hospital. Everything carried on as normal outside, no one seemed to be aware of the horrors that had occurred inside just hours before. Why did it have to be Edenbrook to suffer?

No one’s lives would ever be the same again, they would forever be haunted by the events of the last day. The last day they never wanted to experience.

Sienna walked to her best friend Victoria’s room where she was sleeping. She looked so peaceful. It was hard to imagine the ordeal she had been through, how she had been so close to death. Sienna couldn’t imagine losing her.

“It’s hard to imagine isn’t it.” A voice said. Sienna turned to see Ethan walking up the corridor.

“I was so sure we were going to lose both her and Rafael. I’m glad we didn’t.” Sienna sighed.

“Me too. How are you holding up? After everything that happened with Danny?” Ethan asked.

Sienna closed her eyes for a second, thinking over the answer in her head. “I don’t really know how to feel. I’m so relieved Victoria and Rafael are ok. But Danny… he’s gone.”

“I know. And it won’t be easy. We’ve all felt a sense of loss. But I think Danny would want us to remember we did a good thing. And I think we should remember that going forward.” Ethan smiled as he looked at Victoria.

“Well there’s no time like the present. Go in there and be with her.” Sienna smiled.

Ethan chuckled before opening the door. He went and sat by Victoria’s bed, grasping her hand as she continued to sleep.

“I’m so glad you’re still here.” Ethan said as he pressed a gentle kiss to Victoria’s hand.

As if she heard him, Victoria opened her eyes. “Me too.” She said.

“Did I wake you?”

“No I was just resting my eyes. How is Raf?”

“He’s doing well. There’s still a long way to go but he’s going in the right direction.”

“That’s good. Although I don’t think life for either of us will be the same again. My lungs are scarred I’ve been told.” Victoria said.

“That’s no surprise. None of us really know the after effects. It looks like you both might be useful for science in the future.”

“Hopefully not for a few years. How is everyone coping?”

Ethan sighed. “They’re not really if I’m honest. Life for all of us is going to be different.”

“Do you think people will expect us to say something? It’s on the news.” Victoria said.

“Not right now. And even if you did, there’s no way you will be saying something without the approval of HR.” Ethan replied.

“You don’t like HR. I’d love to see you interacting with them.” Victoria laughed.

“Never in a million years.” Ethan said. He noticed a box by Victoria’s bed. “What’s that?”

Victoria looked over at what he was pointing at. “Oh it’s my inhaler. I’ll need to use it if I ever get short of breath. I guess that’s the new normal for me now.” Victoria sighed.

“There was always a chance of some effects. But you’ll learn to live with it. It’s better that than the alternative.”

“I suppose. How are you after everything? I haven’t really asked.”

Ethan sighed. “Lots of things. I’m relieved you’re alive along with Rafael but sad that Danny died, angry that the Senator escaped.”

“I know. Me too. I have a lot of unanswered questions. But right now, all I need is you by my side to help me recover.”

“Well that is a guarantee. I need to update Naveen on what’s happened. I’ll be back later.” Ethan stood up and pressed a kiss to Victoria’s forehead before leaving the room.

Whilst Ethan was telling the truth, he made a detour. He headed towards the men’s bathroom. He rested his hands on the sink, head bowed and he could feel himself shaking. Without thinking about it, he broke down, tears streaming down his face and his cries leaving his body one by one. He had been holding it in for so long, he wanted to be strong for Victoria. But now he was letting it out, finally allowing all his emotions to be spilled out.

Ethan washed his face and wiped his eyes before he headed to see Naveen, each step feeling much heavier than the last.

He knew life would never be the same, but for now, he had to be strong. For himself, for the hospital.

For Victoria. And she mattered more than anyone.

Oops I wrote angst lol

Tag list: @ohchoices @swiftiexstarwarssimp @queencarb @genevievemd @choicesaddict5 @schnitzelbutterfingers @gryffindordaughterofathena @sophxwithers @romewritingshop @coffeeheartaddict2 @mm2305 @nikki-2406 @maurine07 @nishas-paradise @replayfootsteps @mainstreetreader @lsvdw-blog @kiara-36 @quixoticdreamer16 @headoverheelsforramsey @shanzay44 @itsjustamesshonestly @josiesopenheart @mysticalgalaxysstuff @custaroonie @ireneadlerisseggsy @takemyopenheart @kachrisberry @rookiemartin @jamespotterthefirst @a-crepusculo @natureblooms24 @jerzwriter @wanderingamongthewildflowers @rosebudde @lucy-268 @liaromancewriter @bex-la-get @writer-ish @toadfrog26 @tessa-liam @peonierose @cariantha @kyra75 @openheartfanfics @choicesficwriterscreations

[urdilfred]

Open Heart(Fanart) Mc x Ethan Ramsey

Throw back tbh anyway my MC is more OC then Open Hearts MC because he looks nothing like the spites but male mc’s always wacky looking😞

[intrusivethot676799]

I'm readig Open Heart for the first time (v late, i know) and now im hooked on it im on book 2 and WHAT DID THIS TRAVIS GUY JUST DO TO ALL OF US?????? WE'RE INNOCENT BYSTANDERS??????? THE SECUrity GUARD TOO I LOVE HIM AND THAT LITERALLY HAPPENED AND RTHAN'S STANDING THERE LIME 🧍‍♀️🧍‍♂️🧍🕴️🐥👏 LIKE MAN HELP US ANYWAYS I ACTUALLY STRESSING OUT

[liaromancewriter]

Trimming The Christmas Tree

Book: Open Heart (post series) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine)

A/N: Submission for @choicesholidays and @choicesdecember2024 prompt "Decorations"

Cassie joined Ethan in hanging the last two ornaments. She wanted some part of trimming the tree this year, even if it was something small. He took the star topper from her hand and stretched his arm to place it at the top of the tree. She stepped back to admire Ethan’s work and nodded in appreciation. “Gold star, babe.”

I just received this fan art and couldn't wait to share it. Thanks to ArtbyAinna (IG) for bringing this scene from my fic, Christmas Tree Traditions, to life.

Tag list below the cut

All Fics & Edits: @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @jerzwriter @justyourusualash

@lady-calypso @kyra75 @mainstreetreader @peonierose @potionsprefect

@queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @snoopdogcone @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

@thosehallowedhalls

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanart

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @youlookappropriate

[jerzwriter]

It's Christmastime - and Ethan is thoroughly unimpressed. Luckily, he has Kaycee to turn that around - but can she make it happen?

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Kaycee MacClennan (F!MC) Rating: Teen Words: 1,411 Summary: See above.

A/N: Participating in @choicesholidays winter event - New Traditions - they have a few in here! :) Also, @choicesdecember2024, I think Miracle is the best match! lol

The line felt like it stretched the entire length of the mall, accompanied by all the annoyances that came with it: frazzled parents, sugared-up kids, and the occasional beleaguered adult questioning their life choices. It didn’t take long to determine what group a tall, scowling doctor with his arms crossed in front of his chest belonged to. Ethan Ramsey was firmly in the last group, and Kaycee couldn’t have been more amused.

He should have expected this, she thought; after all, this was their second Christmas together, and he had already survived year one at her side. She smiled at him, the picture of holiday cheer in her red sweater adorned with tiny reindeer. That sweater wasn’t a split-second decision. No, Kaycee had taken months to find the perfect design and purchased two, one for each of them. Ethan was wearing his, too. It would be visible if he took off his leather jacket, but he had made it clear before they left his condo... he was NOT taking off his leather jacket.

Kaycee’s eyes were full of mischief as she gently nudged him with her elbow. “You’re awfully quiet today,” she said with a slight smile.

Ethan let out an exasperated sigh. “You dragged me here against my will. Can’t you just enjoy my silent suffering?”

Chuckling, she stepped closer and leaned into his side. “Stop it, grumpy! You enjoy this, too! You’re just too much of a curmudgeonly old man to admit it!”

He arched an eyebrow, looking at her with a frown. “Negative,” he deadpanned.

“Yes, you absolutely are!” Kaycee insisted. “You’re so lucky to have me here to fix all this bah-humbug of yours! Besides... remember what I promised you later... if  you’re a good sport.”

His demeanor seemed to change on a dime, the corners of his mouth twitching upward despite himself. He leaned in close and whispered so only she could hear him. “I seem to remember a promise that involved scanty red lingerie and mistletoe. Can you remind me of the other details again? It might make this whole experience a little more bearable?”

“Sorry, babe,” she answered with amusement. “There will be no reward until we finish the task at hand, and your chances are better if you do it with a smile on your face.”

The line continued to shuffle forward at an excruciatingly slow pace, and though he tried to contain it, Ethan’s grumbling continued. “This is ridiculous.” “You realize we’re adults, Kaycee.” “We really don’t belong here.”

She bit her lip to refrain from laughing, her amusement growing with each mumbled complaint. She peeked ahead and saw it wouldn’t be much longer; the jolly man in red was getting closer with every step. “Stop it, Ethan! You know I’m right about this.”

“Right? Right about what?”

“That this is going to be fun. Admit it—deep down, you’re excited.”

Ethan snorted. “The only thing I’m excited about is how you’ll be repaying me later.”

She looked up at him with a smirk and playfully punched his arm. “If you keep torturing me here, I may just renege on my promise!”

Ethan looked stricken. “You wouldn’t!”

Kaycee didn’t get a chance to answer as they finally reached the front of the line, where an overly excited elf dressed in green and red tights greeted them with an almost eerie smile. “Hi there! Are we going for the basic photo package or the deluxe? The deluxe comes with extra prints, digital downloads, and even a festive frame!”

Before Ethan could say a word, Kaycee jumped in. “Deluxe, please. I want as many prints as possible to send to all our friends and family.”

Ethan’s eyes went wide. “That was not part of the deal,” he protested.

Kaycee remained the picture of holiday bliss when she smiled at his side. “Ethan, but it’s Santa!”

How had he ended up here? He was almost forty. He should be home with a glass of spiked eggnog by the fireplace. He ran a hand down his face and grumbled. “This is absolutely absurd.”

He was about to complain more when a tiny voice from behind interrupted him. Ethan felt the little hand tugging at his jacket just before the words hit his ear. “Mister, are you saying you don’t believe in Santa Claus?”

Ethan froze, turning to find a little boy of no more than six staring up at him. His wide eyes were filled with innocence, almost begging Ethan to offer a reassuring response. Ethan glanced at the boy and then at his parents, standing behind him. They watched with an amused expression as they waited for his reply.

Ethan hadn’t asked for it, but in that moment, memories from his own childhood rose to the surface. When he was about this boy’s age, he would spend his whole year compiling lists for Santa, three to be exact. One was a compilation of all the good things he had done, and the second was confessions of the not-so-good stuff. That one had an attachment with explanations and how he attempted to atone.   Then, there was his Christmas wish list. Each year, when he wrote it, he was sure he wouldn’t receive most of the things he asked for. He might have been young, but he was smart enough to know his family was struggling. He could tell when his Mom put an extra sweater on him instead of turning up the heat, when his dad insisted on taking extra shifts even though he was tired, and when his parents would put a few items back before they checked out at the grocery store. He was young but bright, and he knew.

Yet, every Christmas morning, it seemed like a miracle took place. He had no idea how it happened, but most, if not all, that he wished for would be wrapped beautifully under the family Christmas tree. Back then, he took that as proof positive that Santa was real. There was no other way. He hadn’t thought about that for years, but standing before this little boy, he could feel the emotion welling inside.

There was magic during the holiday season. It didn’t come from mythical creatures in red suits or tiny reindeer – but from the people who loved us the most. It came from parents who worked hard to create that magic, including his own parents, who did without themselves just to see the look in his eyes on Christmas day.

It came in the form of the beautiful woman beaming at his side. The one who knew him better than he knew himself and was not about to let him spend the rest of his days thinking wonder and hope were something that had died long ago. She insisted they had a place in his grown-up life, and looking at her now, it was apparent, the message was received.

He knelt down to the child’s level, his voice soft and tender, his eyes warm. “Of course I believe in Santa Claus. Santa is all about the magic of the holiday season. And you know what? That magic is real. One hundred percent real.”

The boy’s eyes sparkled with his reply. “Really? You mean it!”

Ethan nodded, wrapping his arm around Kaycee, who was beaming up at him with so much affection it made his chest tighten. “Really. It’s all around us – it’s surrounding you and me.”

The boy grinned as he turned and hugged his parent’s knees, and Ethan met the gaze of the woman he loved. “YOU are all the magic I need,” he murmured placing a kiss atop her head. “Thank you for reminding me of who I used to be.”

Kaycee’s eyes filled with tears as she held him tight, he didn’t know it, but he had just given her the greatest gift of all.

“Uhm, so... the pictures?” The now irritated elf asked.

“You heard the lady,” Ethan stated. “The deluxe package, in fact, make it two!”

Before they stepped into the winter wonderland that served as a backdrop to Santa’s throne, Ethan turned to Kaycee once more. “Merry Christmas, baby,” he said with a smile she’d cherish for all time.

“Merry Christmas, Ethan,” she whispered back.

Ethan took her hand and led her down the candy cane-trimmed path toward Santa, knowing precisely what he’d say when the jolly man asked him what he wanted for Christmas. He already had his gift, and she was standing by his side.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

[jamespotterthefirst]

Dress (Ethan x F!MC)

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey and MC (Lilac Allende)

Word Count: 1.5K

Rating/Warning: T/ Some Language

Summary: Loosely based on the events in Book 1, Chapter 9. After dinner with her roommates, she runs into Dr. Ramsey at the bar.

Note: Because Ethan never saw my MC in that hot dress. Inspired by Dress by Taylor Swift. Longer note at the end (meep).

The dimly lit bar thrummed with excitement, the energy as palpable as the plethora of glasses leaving the bar. All around, overworked medical staff in various degrees of inebriation laughed and talked over the loud music, making the most of the rare moments of freedom at their disposal. It was undoubtedly karaoke night—and if the neon sign flashing from above the small stage didn’t clue him in, the awful singing, the ruckus laughter, and the smell of fried bar food definitely would. Still, the tension pinching Ethan’s muscles knew only one remedy.  

“Well, I’ll be damned,” Reggie exclaimed with exaggeration at the sight of Ethan. “Hell must’ve frozen over if you’re here for karaoke night. What song should I queue up for you?”

“Very funny,” Ethan replied dryly, taking his usual seat at the bar. “No song, but I will take the usual.”

The bartender laughed his characteristic guffaw, one that he reserved for whenever he taunted Ethan. “Must’ve been one hell of a day if you need a drink badly enough to put up with all this.”

He nodded toward the stage where a group of interns belted the notes of some 90s song Ethan couldn’t place. They huddled around one microphone, swaying under the effects of half-priced pitchers of the night. One of the interns broke off in laughter, signaling at someone in the crowd to join them. 

“Hell of a week,” Ethan began to reply, but his attention lingered on the group. 

The more he watched them, the more recognition dawned on him. The one grinning broadly at the center, shorter than the rest, was Sienna Trinh. Beside her, Elijah Greene rapped the verse of the song expertly. On his right was a tall, lanky intern Ethan could not name if his life depended on it. 

If they were here, then so must—

“Lilac!” Trinh hissed into the mic, beckoning wildly from stage. “Get up here, now!” 

Jeers erupted as the crowd parted, revealing a laughing Lilac Allende. She shook her head enigmatically, but Trinh refused to give up. At long last, a pair of strong arms engulfed Lilac and easily picked her up. That arrogant surgeon that strutted through the halls of the hospital carried her on stage. 

Ethan looked away, annoyed. Lucky for him, Reggie had long since placed the glass of amber liquid in front of him. He took a swig, refusing to give in to the urge of glancing her way. 

It was no use, though. 

The last few months had proven that Lilac Allende was impossible to ignore. She had confidently taken reign of his senses from the moment her green eyes met his. Defeated, he glanced at the stage. The stage lights had brightened, matching the rhythmic Spanish song blaring from the speakers. One glance at the screens surrounding the small room told him it was a song by Selena Quintanilla.

“Anything for Selenas!” Lahela screeched through cupped hands. 

Lilac, meanwhile, made no use of the screens with the flashing lyrics. She sang the words confidently into the microphone, swaying and dancing, letting the music take over. Each sway of her hips commanded the space around her, all but hypnotizing anyone who watched. She was aware of how badly her voice sounded as she tried to hit the high notes, but the peal of laughter that rang out made Ethan’s chest feel weightless. 

At last, during a pause in the song, she shrugged off her long coat to the wild cheers of the crowd. 

“Get it, bitch!” Sienna cheered as she caught Lilac’s discarded coat. 

There was nothing particularly special about the dress Lilac wore. It was a shade of dark green Ethan could not specifically name if pressed. It could have even been modest or plain on anyone else, with long sleeves and a skirt that reached the floor. But on Lilac Allende the dress was nothing short of sinful. It caught the light as she danced and swayed to the music, captivating many in the room. The fabric hugged every curve and dip, flowing in a tantalizing rhythm as she danced. 

Ethan watched, clinging to his glass with unnecessary force. 

For one wild moment, he allowed himself to fantasize what it would be like to run his fingers along the leg slit. His lips would find her exposed shoulder, moving up her neck, and whispering in her ear, “Let’s get out of here.”

The song ended with a roar of applause. 

As though sensing his gaze on her, her green eyes found his from across the room, paralyzing him. 

Piercing blue eyes pinned her in place, making her body hum more than cheap alcohol ever could. Ethan Ramsey was watching her from his usual place at the bar, his expression unreadable but intense. Every instinct told her to stay away from him, her senses recognizing what grew heavy between them with each passing day.

Before she could think better of it, Lilac hopped off the stage and made her way to the bar, giving her friends some pretense about needing a drink badly. As she approached, Ethan’s posture stiffened, his attention on his glass of scotch. Though he stared at the amber liquid intently, it was nothing compared to the way he had watched her from across the room. 

“Didn’t expect to see you here, Doctor Ramsey,” she said by way of greeting. “It’s karaoke night.”

He looked up at last, though his posture still appeared tense. Lilac noticed his fingers flexed around his glass. 

“I’m aware,” he responded. “It looked like you were having fun.”

Lilac gave him a little shrug, sliding onto the barstool next to him. “Just blowing off some steam after a difficult day.”

Ethan’s shoulders stiffened slightly. She knew he was thinking about their earlier conversation regarding Mr. Platt. He opened his mouth, impassioned, as though ready to go toe-to-toe with her like before. Then, he seemed to think better of it. 

“Did you figure it out yet?” he asked instead. 

“Why you assigned him to me? No.”

“His diagnosis, Rookie.”

“Also no. That’s eluding me as much as your reasoning behind this.” 

She knew he was pushing him a little too hard. He could very well angrily shut down like he had done earlier, leaving her even more irritated and confused. Instead, he set his glass down on the bar top, sighing heavily. 

“I thought you could handle it.”

The inadequacy of this response made Lilac’s annoyance flare up.

“I must’ve miscalculated,” he added. 

“I can handle anything you give me,” she returned scathingly. 

“Surely not if this simple assignment is throwing you off.” “It’s not the assignment or the patient. It’s the reason why you did it.”

“The reason is simple. I'm your mentor. It's my job to push you.”

The busy bar around them continued to buzz with excitement. No one around them paid them any mind, and if they did, the look on Ethan's face alone was enough to make anyone glance anywhere else. Lilac, however, was not afraid of the icy glare fixed on her. Instead, she straightened her spine, her body imperceptibly closer to his. 

“I don't believe you,” she informed him. 

He pinched the bridge of his nose. “You're not letting this go, are you?” 

“You already know the answer to that, Dr. Ramsey.”

Lilac watched him take a long swig of his drink. Truth be told, she was shocked he was still sitting there, humoring her. Any other time, he would have stormed off. 

Tonight was different. 

“If you're so sure there's some grand explanation, then enlighten me, Rookie.”

Lately, everything was different with him, as though the Earth shifted on its axis without their knowledge, leaving them swaying for balance. 

“I think…” she said, her voice quiet. She trailed off, entranced by his blue eyes on hers. Without her knowledge, she had leaned closer to him, their arms and thighs so close that she could feel the warmth of his body. For a breath, she allowed herself to imagine what that warmth would feel like pressed against her body, roaming every inch of her… The warmth of his hands on her skin, as he tugged her dress, pulled it, ripped it...

“I think…” she tried again, willing herself out of her haze. 

“Yes?” 

“You're deflecting.”

Ethan reeled back. “Deflecting? Deflecting what exactly?” 

How did she explain that she burned for him and a part of her believed he longed for her too? She couldn't bring herself to explain her deluded reasoning: that he wanted her just as badly as she wanted him. That there was something tangible between them that neither of them could ignore. That the reason Ethan assigned her an impossible patient was to prove that he didn't feel the same as Lilac— that she was just another intern. Saying the words out loud felt like giving up too much of herself. 

“There you are, Lilac!” Trinh exclaimed as she appeared by her side. “We need you. Landry and Elijah want to sing ‘Non-Stop’ but I have to sing ‘My Shot’. I have to or I will cry.”

Sienna's eyes fell on Ethan and she froze. “Sorry—Am I interrupting?” 

“Not at all,” Lilac assured her, hopping off the barstool. “Dr. Ramsey and I were done talking.” 

Ethan, on the other hand, looked as though he wanted to reach out to stop her. Lilac's body thrilled at the thought. 

“Enjoy your night, Dr. Ramsey.” 

“You, too, Dr. Allende.” 

Note: Hi. Hello. It's me. I'm the absolute problem, it's me.

There's so much to say. I always forget everything I want to say when I type these.

First, if anyone is still out there, and read this-- Thank you!

Second, to everyone reading and liking my old work while I was away, also thank you! You made my day when I would log on and see!

Third, I am working on a huge Open Heart project. As I re-read ch. 9 inspiration struck. Writing after all this time felt like rusty gears slowly starting to turn. It felt good, though. I hope I can do more of it!

I will definitely post old fics I wrote once upon a time but never posted.

Love you all. Missed you!

-Bree

[paulfwesley]

*slam the break* WHAT THE FUCK??

[cariantha]

Hii 🥰

I saw this quote and thought it would maybe inspire you for a story or an edit 🥰

Hi Girlie!❤️I was looking through some of the prompts you've sent me, and a spark of inspiration hit me for this one, so I hammered out a quick fic this afternoon. 🤫Don't tell my boss.

Proud Parents

Book: Open Heart, Book 2 Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Sawyer Brooks) Rating: General Category: Fluff Word count: 661 Summary: Alan visits Louise at the rehab center a few days after Ethan drops her off.

Alan rapped his knuckles on the frame of the open door. “Knock, knock… are you up for a visitor?”

“Alan, hi. Come in,” Louise greeted. 

“These are for you,” he offered, handing her a small bouquet of pink flowers. 

“Oh, Al, thank you. They’re so pretty. I love lilies.” 

“Yes, I remember. How are you feeling, Lou?” he asked, taking in her new temporary living situation. 

“I’ve been better, but I’ve also been a lot worse.”

Alan nodded his head in understanding. “This place is nice. I was expecting something more like a medical facility. This feels more like a hotel.”

“I was pleasantly surprised, too. It was very nice of Ethan to set me up here. Would you like to head to the lounge for some coffee?” 

Alan extended his arm, gesturing for her to lead the way. “It was also kind of him to drive you here and help you get checked in. I hope you can appreciate how difficult that was for him, Lou,” he said as he followed her down the hall. 

“I do, and I'm grateful." She sighed, "Truth be told, I would have preferred it to be just the two of us, but he insisted his girlfriend come along.”

Alan took a seat on a nearby couch as Louise poured them each a cup of joe. “Oh? He hadn't mentioned that, but I'm glad Sawyer was there for him.”

“Still like it with cream?” she asked, holding up the container. 

“Please,” he answered. “What did you think of her?”

“She was very…” she thought for a minute, trying to find the right word, “protective of him.”

Alan smiled to himself as Louise handed him the coffee and sat in the armchair next to him. “Good.”

“He seemed pretty protective of her, too,” she admitted. “I confess I wasn’t very polite, and he let me have it.”

“Makes sense, especially since the attack at the hospital.”

Louise looked down into her coffee cup with a regretful frown. “I remember you mentioning that, but honestly, I was a little out of it at the time. I don't recall any of the details, only that Ethan had been there. Was Sawyer there, too?”

“Yes,” he answered morosely. “She was one of the victims… she was at death’s door, but thankfully pulled through.” 

“Oh, I didn't know that.” As Alan recapped some of the details, Louise was surprised to hear how harrowing the event had been. “How scary for them both. I can’t even imagine.”

Alan nodded slowly, then glanced reflectively out the window at the snow beginning to fall. “It rattled him, Lou,” he said. “Between the attack and your overdose, it's been a lot.” He returned his gaze to his estranged wife. “He still carries an enormous amount of hurt. Give him time and grace to navigate through it all.”

Feeling guilty, Louise nodded and looked down at her coffee again. 

Attempting to lift the mood, Alan shared, “Sawyer's been a good influence on him. She's a real sweetheart and isn't afraid to go toe to toe with him.”

Louise took a sip and shook her head with a knowing smile. “Lord, he was such a headstrong and stubborn child.” 

“You have no idea, Lou,” Alan chuckled, then added, “but he was a good kid. And he's become an even better man. I couldn't be more proud.” 

“I know I don’t know him like you, but I’m proud of him too. And I’m thankful he had you, Al. You did an amazing job raising him.” 

Alan dipped his chin in thanks, trying not to get emotional. 

“So, have they been together long?” Louise asked, bringing them back to lighter conversation again. 

“They've known each other for a little bit, but their relationship is still relatively new. It took a while for his stubborn ass to catch up with his heart.”

“That makes sense. He looks at her like he just realized what love is.”

Alan smiled joyfully. “Because I think he finally has.”

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