#I think hard about Genny

[tsuchinokoroyale]

[newobsessionweekly]

Rays of hope

Main masterlist | The Rookie masterlist

Tim Bradford x wife!reader

Fandom: The Rookie

Summary: Your son is kidnapped and you and your husband, Tim, do everything you can to get him back.

ANGST | Hurt to comfort

Requested: Yes - here

Warnings: Kidnapping, kid being held hostage, description of being shot, injuries, losing consciousness.

A/N: I LOVE WRITING ANGST. I've worked so hard on this one and I absolutely love how it turned out. I won't say anything else, I'll let you enjoy it. I have so many ideas and I seriously make it a full time job writing everything.

Words: 6.1k

GIF not mine, credits to the owner.

As the soft light of dawn filtered through the curtains, the Bradford household stirred with the promise of a new day. The aroma of brewing coffee mingled with the gentle sounds of morning chatter as you and Tim bustled around the kitchen, preparing for the day ahead.

Evan, your bright-eyed three-year-old, bounced around the room with infectious energy, his laughter filling the air. Tim knelt down, scooping his son up into his strong arms, showering him with tickles and kisses.

"Hey there, little man," he chuckled, his voice infused with affection. "What adventures are you up today?"

Evan giggled gleefully, wrapping his tiny arms around his father's neck. His response was a jumble of words, excitement evident despite his struggles with forming coherent sentences. "Catch the bad guys like mommy and daddy!"

Tim chuckled, planting a gentle kiss on Evan's cheek. "That's right, buddy. Just like Mommy and Daddy" he said, his voice gentle as he tousled Evan's hair affectionately. "But first, how about some superhero breakfast?"

Tim's presence seemed to illuminate the room even more. He approached you with a tender smile, his eyes reflecting the depth of his love as he enveloped you in his embrace. His arms wrapped around you securely, a comforting shield against any worries or doubts.

"Morning, baby," his voice, like a soothing melody, whispered into your ear, sending shivers of warmth down your spine. "How are my two favorite girls this morning?"

In that moment, as his hand brushed over your bump with such tender care, you felt an overwhelming rush of love and gratitude for the man standing before you. Tim's gaze lingered on you, his eyes filled with an unspoken promise of unwavering support and devotion.

"We're doing great," you replied, leaning into his embrace, savoring the feeling of being held so close.

Tim pressed a gentle kiss to your temple, his lips lingering there for a moment as if to convey all the love he felt. "You look absolutely radiant," he murmured, his voice filled with awe and admiration. "I swear, every day you glow even more."

As Tim settled Evan into his chair, you couldn't help but admire the sight before you. Tim embodied strength and tenderness in equal measure. Dressed casually, his rugged charm shone through effortlessly. With every movement, his love for you and your son was evident, his hands deftly helped Evan eat breakfast while his eyes sparkled with warmth. Watching him with Evan, you couldn't help but feel a wave of adoration for the man who filled your home with love and security.

"Uh-oh. We have a problem," you announced, your voice tinged with concern as you glanced down at your phone. "Nanny just texted me. She can't make it today."

Tim's brow furrowed slightly as he considered the situation, his mind already working on a solution. "What about your mom?" he suggested. "Can't she babysit Evan today?"

You shook your head regretfully, a sigh escaping your lips. "I don't think so. She's outside LA now," you explained, your thoughts racing to find an alternative. "Maybe your sister?"

At the mention of Genny, Tim's expression darkened slightly, "No, custody battle today," he murmured, his voice tinged with a hint of worry. "We'll figure something out, baby. Don't worry."

As you and Tim exchanged worried glances, Evan piped up from his seat, his innocent voice breaking the tension in the room. "Mommy, Daddy, no worry," he declared, his eyes wide with determination. "Evan help!"

You stepped into the familiar hustle and bustle of the station and Evan's eyes widened in wonder at the sight of officers in their crisp uniforms bustling about their duties. With a gleeful tug on Tim's hand, he eagerly dashed around, taking in every detail with unbridled enthusiasm.

"Daddy, look! Cops!" Evan exclaimed, his words a jumble of excitement as he pointed at the officers. "Lots and lots!"

Tim chuckled softly, his heart swelling with pride at his son's eagerness. "That's right, buddy," he affirmed, his voice warm with affection. "This is where mommy and daddy work, with all their friends."

Your son darted around, his boundless energy matched only by his excitement, he greeted each familiar face with enthusiasm, his words a mixture of gibberish and genuine attempts at conversation.

"Hi, Lulu!" Evan exclaimed, flashing Lucy a toothy grin as he reached up to give her a high-five.

Lucy laughed, her eyes crinkling at the corners with amusement. "Hi there, little buddy! If it isn't our favourite visitor!" she replied, returning the high-five with a gentle pat on the head. "You've grown so much since the last time we saw you!"

Evan beamed at the attention, his chest swelling with pride. "I big boy!" he declared proudly, his words punctuated by a triumphant grin.

Next, Evan turned his attention to Angela, his eyes alight with recognition. "Hi, Auntie Angie!" he chirped, reaching out to tug on her sleeve.

Angela's heart melted at the endearing nickname, her smile softening as she crouched down to Evan's level. "Hey, champ," she said, ruffling his hair affectionately. "He's the spitting image of his mother." she said to Lucy, shooting you a playful wink.

Evan beamed at the praise, his chest puffing out with pride. "I grow big like Daddy!" he declared, his words filled with confidence.

Nyla and Nolan watched the exchange with fond amusement, their own smiles widening as Evan made his rounds. You watched your son with amusement, glad he's terrorising your friends and gave you and your husband a moment to catch your breath.

"Don't forget Nyla and John." Evan eagerly nodded at your words, making his way to Nyla first.

She joined in, her face breaking into a wide smile as she crouched down to Evan's level. "Hey there, buddy! You remember my name?" she extended her hand for a handshake.

Evan shook her hand vigorously, his eyes shining with excitement. "You Nyla! I Evan, I help mommy and daddy catch bad guys!" he announced proudly, his words punctuated by a giggle.

Nolan chuckled, ruffling Evan's hair affectionately. "Looks like you've got quite the little helper there, Tim," he remarked, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

Evan saw the opportunity for more attention and he grabbed Nolan's pants, "John, look!" he exclaimed, pointing at something only he could see.

Nolan chuckled, crouching down to Evan's level. "What am I looking at, buddy?" he asked with a grin.

Evan giggled mischievously, his eyes dancing with mischief. "You funny!" he declared, wrapping his tiny arms around the officer's neck in a spontaneous hug.

Then, in a burst of excitement, Evan's face lit up with a newfound revelation. "I meet baby sister soon!" he announced, his words tumbling out in a rush.

The officers exchanged surprised glances, their expressions shifting from amusement to shock at the unexpected news. "Baby sister?" Angela echoed, her voice tinged with disbelief. "Congratulations!"

Nolan grinned, clapping Tim on the back in hearty congratulations. "Well, Bradford. Looks like you're in for double trouble," he teased, his tone affectionate yet teasing.

Amidst the chorus of well wishes and congratulations, both you and Tim couldn't help but feel a swell of gratitude for the supportive community they had found within the station.

"So, what's the little guy doing here?" Angela inquired, her brow furrowed in concern.

Tim sighed, running a hand through his hair as he explained the morning's events. "Well, nanny bailed on us last minute," he admitted, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice. "We didn't have enough time to find someone else to watch him."

Nyla nodded understandingly, her expression sympathetic. "I can call James," she offered, already reaching for her phone. "He can take Evan with him for the day."

Meanwhile, Lucy's eyes lit up with an idea. "And Tamara's here for a school project," she added eagerly, gesturing towards the young woman across the room. "She can watch Evan in the meantime."

Tim's shoulders visibly relaxed at the offers of help, gratitude flooding his heart. "Thank you, both of you," he said sincerely, his voice filled with relief.

You felt a wave of gratitude wash over you, touched by the kindness and support of your colleagues. Despite the unexpected hiccup in their morning routine, you couldn't help but feel reassured knowing that you had such caring friends to rely on.

As Evan bounced around the room, his excitement palpable, you couldn't help but smile at the sight of your son surrounded by so much love and warmth.

Tamara returned from the restroom and her heart skipped a beat at the sight of the empty break room. Evan's toys lay abandoned on the table, but there was no sign of the energetic three-year-old. She left only for a moment, assigning Smitty to keep an eye on Evan but she couldn't find any of them.

"Evan?" she called out, her voice tinged with concern as she scanned the room frantically. "Where are you?"

Panic began to bubble up inside her as she rushed out into the hallway, calling out for Evan at the top of her lungs. "Evan!" she shouted, her voice echoing off the walls of the station. "Come on, kid! This isn't funny. We didn't agree to play hide and seek!"

Her heart pounded in her chest as she raced through the corridors, her eyes darting from room to room in search of any sign of the missing child. The fear gnawed at her insides, threatening to overwhelm her with its intensity.

"Y/N's gonna kill me," she murmured under her breath, her mind racing with worst-case scenarios. She couldn't bear the thought of facing you and Tim with the news that your son was missing on her watch.

With each passing moment, the weight of responsibility pressed down on her shoulders, driving her to search even more desperately for Evan. She prayed with all her might that he was safe and sound, waiting to be found somewhere within the station.

Tamara's heart raced as she rushed to Angela's desk, her hands trembling with fear. Her eyes widened at the sight of Tamara's panicked expression, immediately sensing that something was terribly wrong.

"What happened?" Angela asked, her voice filled with concern as she reached out to steady Tamara.

"It's Evan," Tamara blurted out, her words tumbling out in a rush. "I don't know what happened. He—uh, he's not in the break room. I can't find him."

Panic surged through Tamara's veins, threatening to overwhelm her as she struggled to catch her breath. She couldn't shake the feeling of dread that gripped her heart, knowing that Evan was missing and she was responsible for his safety.

Angela's eyes widened in alarm as she grasped the gravity of the situation. "Okay, okay, let's stay calm," she reassured, though her own heart raced with fear. "Let's go to talk to Grey."

Together, they hurried to Sergeant Grey's office, their steps quickening with each passing moment. Angela explained the situation to the sergeant, her voice urgent as she described Evan's disappearance. He wasted no time in springing into action, dispatching officers to search the station up and down and the surrounding area for any sign of Evan.

Returning to Angela's desk, they accessed the security cameras from the station, their hands shaking as they scrolled through the footage. With bated breath, they watched as a figure dressed in black approached Evan in the break room, his face obscured from view.

As they watched in horror, the figure took Evan's hand and led him out of the station through the front door, disappearing into the bustling city beyond.

Angela's stomach churned with dread as she exchanged a horrified glance with Tamara. "We have to find him," she said, her voice trembling with urgency.

You and your rookie arrived as backup for Tim and the day seemed like any other—filled with the usual hustle and bustle of police work and the consuming thoughts about your son now more than ever. It wasn't about that you didn't trust Tamara or James, it was more the fact that your son was in a not so familiar place.

When Sergeant Grey's voice cut through the radio, your maternal instincts kicked in, suddenly feeling something was not right.

"7-Adam-19, 7-Adam-100, please return to the station," he commanded, his voice terse and filled with an unspoken sense of dread.

Immediately, you and your husband exchanged a look of concern, your hearts pounding in your chests as you hastily wrapped up the call. Questions swirled in your minds, but you could sense the urgency in Wade's voice, driving you to act without hesitation.

Rushing towards the station, your thoughts were racing with a million terrifying possibilities. The atmosphere was charged with tension, officers scurrying about with grim expressions etched upon their faces. You and Tim shared a look of mutual fear, your hearts pounding in your chests as you braced yourselves for the worst.

"What happened? Where's Evan?" your voice trembled with fear as you approached Sergeant Grey, your eyes searching desperately for any sign of reassurance.

Grey's expression was grave as he met your gaze, his own eyes filled with sorrow and sympathy. "Please sit down," he urged gently.

But Tim couldn't bring himself to comply, his chest tight with anxiety and dread. "Don't do that," he interjected. "Just tell us what happened."

Sergeant Grey sighed heavily, his shoulders slumping under the weight of the news he had to deliver. "Fine," he relented. "Evan's been kidnapped. We're waiting for the security footage of all cameras around the station, but Detective Lopez might have a lead."

The words hit you and Tim like a sledgehammer, leaving you reeling with disbelief and anguish. Your sweet, innocent son had been taken from you, and you both were powerless.

The weight of the situation settles over you like a suffocating blanket, "Thompson" the name escapes your lips in a whisper, heavy with the burden of past encounters with the man.

Memories flood your mind—the chilling threats, the sinister promises of retribution, the menacing glint in his eyes as he swore vengeance upon you and your loved ones.

Tim's expression darkens with a mix of anger and concern, his mind racing as he processes the implications of Thompson's involvement. "I didn't know he got out," he admits, his voice tight with frustration and worry.

Your eyes fill with tears, heart aching with the unbearable fear of the unknown as you grasp your husband's hand tightly. "We gotta find him, Tim. We need to find Evan," you plead, voice trembling with desperation.

Tim's jaw clenches with resolve as he pulls you into a tight embrace, his arms a comforting anchor amidst the storm of emotions raging within you. "We will, baby," he vows, his voice a steady reassurance in the face of uncertainty.

He holds you even tighter, his touch a silent reassurance amidst the chaos that surrounds you. With gentle strokes of his hand along your back, he tries to soothe the trembling of your body, his touch conveying more comfort than words ever could.

A wave of despair washed over you both as you sank into nearby chairs, minds racing with a whirlwind of emotions. In that moment, your world shattered into a million jagged pieces, leaving behind only a gaping void where your son's laughter once filled the air. Both of you were consumed by a sense of helplessness and grief, your hearts heavy with the unbearable weight of uncertainty.

Tim feels your trembling body in his arms, he knows that mere words can never be enough to ease the crushing weight of your fear. With gentle fingers, he brushes away the tears that stain your cheeks, his touch tender and comforting. Each stroke is a promise—a promise that he will do everything in his power to bring your son home safe and sound.

In the depths of his heart, Tim feels a surge of pain and helplessness, knowing that you, his wife, are bearing the weight of your son's disappearance with every fiber of your being. His own worries and fears are pushed aside as he focuses solely on providing comfort and strength to the one he loves most in the world.

Tamara rushes to your side, her usually composed attitude shattered by panic and guilt. Her face is pale, her hands shaking as she struggles to find the words to express her guilt.

"Y/N, Tim... I'm so sorry," she stammers, her voice quivering with emotion. "I was only gone for a minute, I left Smitty with him. I... I don't know what happened. When I got back, he—uh, he was gone. I'm so sorry."

Your heart breaks for Tamara, knowing the weight of guilt she must be carrying on her shoulders. Despite your own anguish, you reach out to embrace her, offering comfort and solace in the midst of the chaos.

"It's not your fault, Tamara," you reassure her, voice filled with compassion and understanding. "It's okay. We'll find him."

The tension in the room reaches a fever pitch, Angela breaks the heavy silence with a sense of urgency in her voice. "Guys, I think I've found something," she announces, her eyes darting between Tim and you.

Tim's heart leaps with hope as he strides over to Angela's desk, you close behind. "Show us," Tim demanded, his voice tight with barely contained emotion.

Angela quickly pulled up several surveillance footage clips on her computer screen, the images grainy but unmistakable. "Look here," she pointed, her finger tracing the path of a rusty van leaving the surroundings of the station.

Tim's jaw tightened with determination as he surveyed the footage, his mind already racing with plans and strategies to track down the van and bring Evan home. "It's worth a shot," he declared.

Your heart swelled with gratitude and relief, eyes shining with tears as you leaned in closer to the screen. "We have to go after it," you insisted, voice trembling with desperation and determination.

Tim nodded in agreement, his resolve unwavering. "Alright. Let's get airship support and all the surveillance footage we can find. We need to know every move that van makes," he commanded, already reaching for his radio to issue the orders.

Before you could finalize the plans, Tim's hand shot out to stop you in your tracks, his expression wrought with concern. "You should stay behind," he insisted, his voice soft but firm, his eyes pleading for you to consider your safety.

Your heart sank at the thought of being left behind, your fear for Evan overwhelming any sense of self-preservation. "Not a chance," you declared, your voice trembling with determination. "I'm coming with you. We need all the help we can get."

Tim's gaze softened as he looked into the your eyes, his heart swelling with love and admiration, "Y/N, please. I need to know you're safe. I need you and the baby girl safe," he confessed.

Your resolve only hardened at Tim's words, determination unyielding in the face of adversity. "And what about our boy? What about Evan? I need to find him," you insisted, voice filled with desperation.

In that moment, Tim knew that there was no arguing with your determination. With a heavy sigh, he relented, his heart heavy with worry but his resolve unshaken. "Alright," he murmured, pulling you into a tight embrace. "But promise me you'll stay close. I can't lose you too."

You nodded, your heart swelling with gratitude for Tim's understanding and support. "I promise," you vowed.

With a sense of urgency driving forward, you quickly arrived at the last location where the van was seen. The air crackled with tension as you surveyed the surroundings, the weight of the mission pressing down on you.

Tim's voice cut through the silence as he commanded the team to split up and patrol on foot, his words echoing with authority. "We need to cover every inch of this area," he instructed. "Lucy, Nolan, take east side. Nyla, Angela, cover west. We'll take north."

You nodded in silent agreement, eyes scanning the area for any sign of movement. With each step you took, your hearts hammered in your chests, minds racing with a thousand terrifying possibilities.

Together, you moved cautiously towards the building, the footsteps echoing in the eerie silence of the abandoned street. Tim's hand brushed against yours, a silent gesture of reassurance as you approached the looming structure.

Around the corner, you caught sight of the van parked haphazardly in the alleyway, its doors hanging open as if inviting you inside. Tim's grip tightened on his radio, the other one squeezing your hand even tighter, as he relayed your location, his voice steady and controlled despite the adrenaline coursing through his veins.

"7-Adam-19, we've located the van. Requesting immediate backup at the north entrance," he spoke into the radio, his words precise and urgent.

With bated breath, you entered the building, hearts pounding in your chests as you navigated through the dimly lit corridors hand in hand. Every creak of the floorboards, every flutter of movement in the shadows, sent shivers down your spines as you pressed forward, determination unwavering in the face of danger.

Your hearts stopped as you took in the sight before you— your precious son, bound and gagged, his eyes wide with fear, and the kidnapper, a sinister glint in his eyes as he held the gun to Evan's head.

Evan's small body trembling in fear as he stared up at both you and Tim with tear-filled eyes. The sight of him, helpless and vulnerable, struck a deep chord within you, igniting a firestorm of emotions that threatened to consume you whole.

The knots that bound Evan's wrists and ankles were tight and unforgiving, cutting into his delicate skin and leaving angry red marks in their wake. The sight of your son restrained like a prisoner sent a wave of nausea crashing over, your stomach churning with a mixture of anger and helplessness.

Tears streamed down your cheeks as you took in the sight of your son, heart breaking with every whimper and cry that escaped his lips. It was a sight you had only imagined in your worst nightmares—a sight that would haunt you both for the rest of your days.

You attempted to approach Evan, heart pounding with desperation and fear as Thompson responded with a chilling gesture, taking off the safety of the gun and pressing it even more firmly against Evan's trembling head. You froze in your tracks as you watched in horror, helpless to do anything but stand by and pray for a miracle.

Tim maintained a facade of indifference and purpose despite the pain and anger that consumed both of you. His face was a mask of determination, his eyes burning with a fierce intensity as he faced down the kidnapper. Inside, however, his heart was a tornado of fear and worry, his mind racing with a million worst-case scenarios.

Your heart felt like it was being crushed in a vice grip, your breath catching in your throat as you struggled against the overwhelming urge to protect your child.

Evan's whimpering pierced through the tense silence, his small voice tinged with confusion and fear as he struggled to understand the gravity of the situation unfolding before him.

Tears streamed down your face as you reached out a trembling hand towards your son, desperate to comfort him, but Tim's firm grip on your arm stopped you in your tracks.

"We can't risk it," Tim whispered urgently as he pulled you back to his side, his eyes never leaving Evan.

Your heart felt like it was being torn apart as you watched Evan's innocent whimpering, your own fear for your son threatening to consume you whole.

"Please," Tim pleaded as he addressed Thompson, his hands held up in a gesture of surrender. "Let him go. We can talk about this. Just let him go."

But Thompson's face twisted with anger and resentment, his grip on the gun tightening as he protested vehemently. "You think I'm just gonna let you walk away after what you did to me?" he spat. "You think I'm just gonna let you go back to your perfect little life while I rot in prison?"

Your heart sank as Thompson's words echoed in your mind, "What do you want?" you asked, your heart breaking at the thought of what Thompson might demand. "I'll give you anything. I'll do anything, just please let him go."

His eyes narrowed with hatred as he glared at you, "I want you to suffer," he snarled, his words like daggers in the silence. "Just like I did."

You and Tim tried to talk Thompson down, your hearts pounded in your chests, every second feeling like an eternity as you desperately sought to keep the kidnapper occupied. With Lucy and Nolan slowly approaching from behind, you prayed that they would be able to disarm him before it was too late.

Nolan positioned himself strategically behind Evan, ready to act as a shield if needed, while Lucy positioned herself behind Thompson, her muscles tensed and prepared for action.

"You're making a mistake," Tim stated firmly, his gaze unwavering as he locked eyes with the kidnapper. "You don't want to do this. Let my son go, and we can figure this out."

Thompson's eyes narrowed, his grip on the gun tightening as he glared at Tim with undisguised hostility. "You think I'm just gonna let you walk away after what you did?" he growled.

Tim's jaw clenched with determination as he met his gaze head-on. "We made a mistake," he admitted, "But that doesn't mean you have to make things worse. Let's talk about this like rational adults."

The kidnapper's expression remained cold and unforgiving, his finger twitching on the trigger as he glared at Tim and you with a mixture of anger and resentment. "You ruined my life," he spat, his voice filled with bitterness. "Now it's time for you to pay."

Tim's heart sank as he watched Thompson's finger inch closer to the trigger, every fiber of his being screaming to protect Evan at all costs. "Listen to me," Tim urged, "This isn't the answer. Let Evan go, and we can work this through."

But Thompson's eyes burned with a fierce determination, his grip on the gun unyielding as he leveled it at Evan's head. "It's too late for that," he snarled, his voice filled with rage. "You took everything from me. Now it's time for you to suffer."

Your heart sank at his words, the weight of his hatred crushing you beneath its suffocating grip. "We're sorry," you whispered, "We didn't know..."

Thompson cut you off with a bitter laugh, his laughter echoing off the walls of the empty room. "You didn't know?" he scoffed, "You didn't know that because of you, my wife and daughter are dead?"

Tears stung your eyes as Thompson's words hit you like a punch to the gut, the guilt weighing heavy on your conscience. "We're sorry," you repeated, "We didn't mean for any of this to happen."

His expression remained cold and unforgiving, his gaze fixed on Evan with a mixture of rage and sorrow. "You think your apologies can bring them back?" he growled, his voice laced with bitterness. "You think your words mean anything to me?"

"Even if you take our son away, it won't bring your wife and daughter back," Tim interjected, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. "Don't make things worse for yourself. If you let him go, we won't say a word. You won't go back to prison."

His words hung heavy in the air, a plea for reason in the midst of chaos.

But Thompson's patience wore thin, his grip on the gun tightening as he grew increasingly agitated. His eyes gleamed with malice as he surveyed the scene before him, a twisted smirk playing on his lips.

"Maybe you're right," he sneered, his voice dripping with venom. "Maybe your little bastard isn't the solution. Your whore of a wife is. And pregnant with your daughter. She's perfect."

The words struck like a dagger to the heart, sending a wave of agony crashing over you. Tim's jaw clenched with barely contained fury, his hands curling into fists at his sides as he struggled to maintain his composure.

When the kidnapper's attention shifted towards you, pointing the gun in your direction with a menacing glare, it created a window of opportunity for Lucy and Nolan to intervene. In that harrowing moment, your heart skipped a beat as the barrel of the gun leveled towards you, but amidst the terror, a glimmer of hope flickered to life.

Lucy lunged forward, her eyes focused solely on disarming the kidnapper before he could harm Evan any further. She reached for the gun, her muscles tensing as she prepared to wrestle it from Thompson's grasp.

But in the chaos of the moment, his finger tightened on the trigger, the deafening sound of gunfire shattering the tense silence like a thunderclap. Your heart stopped as you watched in horror, a rush of adrenaline coursing through your veins as the bullet struck its mark. Pain erupted through your body, but in the heat of the moment, the adrenaline dulled the sensation, allowing you to push through.

Every second felt like an eternity as you and Tim rushed to your son's side, the adrenaline coursing through your veins driving you forward. With trembling hands, you helped Nolan loosen the knots, your fingers fumbling in your haste to free Evan from his restraints.

As the last knot came undone, Evan let out a whimper, his tear-streaked face turning towards you and Tim with a look of desperation.

"Mommy!" he cried, his voice trembling.

Your heart shattered into a million pieces at the sound of Evan's voice, tears streaming down your face as you gathered him into your arms. "I'm here, baby," you murmured, your voice shaking with emotion. "Mommy and daddy are here. You're safe now."

Lucy pressed on, pinning the kidnapper to the ground and she swiftly secured him in handcuffs, effectively neutralizing the threat he posed.

Tim knelt down beside you and Evan, his movements were a blur of frantic yet tender gestures. With trembling hands, he pulled you both into his embrace, holding you close as if his mere touch could ward off the looming threat.

"I've got you," he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion as he pressed kisses to your foreheads. "I've got both of you. Everything's going to be okay." His words were a fervent mantra, repeated like a prayer as he desperately tried to reassure himself as much as you and Evan.

You found solace in Tim's embrace, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat a soothing lullaby against your ear. Despite the pain coursing through your body, his presence offered a sense of calm amidst the storm, grounding you in the midst of chaos. With each tender touch and whispered word,exhaustion began to overtake you, the weight of the ordeal bearing down on your weary body, sleep beckoned like a siren's call.

Your eyelids grew heavy with weariness, the pain fading into the background as you surrendered to the embrace of sleep, trusting Tim to keep you safe.

Tim's heart clenched with fear as he felt you grow limp in his arms, panic surging through him like a tidal wave. "No, no, stay with me," he pleaded, his voice thick with emotion. "Don't you dare leave me, Y/N."

But despite his desperate pleas, unconsciousness claimed you, your body going slack against him. Evan's worried voice pierced through the fog of Tim's panic, the little boy shaking your hand with his tiny fingers. "Mommy?" he called out.

Tim's heart shattered at the sight of you lying unconscious on the ground, your face pale and peaceful in sleep. With trembling hands, he scooped Evan into his arms, shielding him from the sight of his mother's still form.

"It's okay, buddy. Mommy's just resting, that's all." Tim whispered, his voice thick with emotion as he held Evan close. But inside, Tim's heart was gripped by fear, his mind racing with worry for you and your unborn baby.

Tim's shouts for help pierced through the chaos, his voice trembled with desperation, tears streaming down his cheeks unchecked as he held Evan tightly in his arms. Each cry for assistance was a desperate plea, a fervent prayer for the help that he so desperately needed.

As the paramedics rushed to your side, Tim watched in horror as they whisked you away on a stretcher. Fear gnawed at his insides, a cold dread settling over him like a suffocating blanket, his chest tightened with every step they took, each moment stretching out into an eternity of agonizing uncertainty.

Angela rushed at Tim's side, and with trembling hands, he handed over Evan into her care, his voice shaking with emotion as he tried to reassure his son in the midst of his own storm.

"It's okay, champ," Tim murmured, his voice choked with tears. "Go with Aunt Angela. Daddy's going with mommy to make sure she's okay." Despite the weight of his own fears bearing down on him, Tim forced a small smile for Evan's sake.

Tim sat at your bedside, his fingers gently tracing patterns on the back of your hand as he watched over you. Evan was nestled against his chest, his soft snores filling the room with a comforting rhythm.

"How are you holding up, Tim?" Lucy asked, placing a reassuring hand on Tim's shoulders.

"Hanging in there." he whispered, caressing his son's hair like it was an anchor that kept his sanity at peace.

They took turns checking on you, their concern palpable in the air as Tim greeted them with a weary but grateful smile. With each visit, Tim's heart warmed by the unwavering support of his fellow officers and friends.

"Thanks for being here," he offered, his voice tinged with exhaustion but filled with appreciation. "It means a lot."

Angela's gaze softened as she placed a reassuring hand on Tim's shoulder. "We're here for you, Tim," she reassured him. "Whatever you need, just say the word."

As you began to stir, Tim's heart skipped a beat, his gaze never wavering from your face as you slowly blinked awake. "Hey there," he whispered softly, a tender smile gracing his lips as he brushed a stray lock of hair from your forehead. "How are you feeling?"

You returned his smile weakly, your voice barely above a whisper as you replied, "Better, now that you're here." The weight of the past few hours pressed heavily upon you, but the sight of Tim's presence beside you brought a sense of calm that you desperately needed.

Tim's heart swelled with relief at the sound of your voice, his fingers intertwining with yours as he leaned in to press another gentle kiss to your forehead. "I'm never leaving your side again," he vowed, his voice filled with conviction as he gazed into your eyes.

Evan stirred against Tim's chest, his sleepy voice calling out for you. "Mommy" he mumbled, his little arms reaching out in search of you.

Tim's heart melted at the sight of his son, his love for both you and Evan swelling within him like a tidal wave. "Shh, buddy," he whispered, his voice soft and soothing as he gently lifted Evan into his arms. "Mommy's right here."

Evan's sleepy eyes widened with delight as he caught sight of you, his face lighting up with joy. With a sleepy grin, he reached out towards you, his tiny fingers curling around your hand as Tim helped him to gently crawl onto the bed beside you.

You couldn't help but smile at the sight of your son, his presence bringing a sense of warmth and comfort that washed over you like a gentle wave. With Tim's steady hand guiding him, Evan nestled against your side, his sleepy gaze meeting yours with an expression of pure adoration.

"Love you, Mommy," Evan murmured, his voice filled with sleepy affection as he snuggled closer to you.

"I love you more, sweetheart," you whispered in reply as you pressed a tender kiss to Evan's forehead.

Tim's eyes glistened as he looked down at the two of you. With a tender smile, he leaned in to press a kiss to both your foreheads, his touch a silent affirmation of his love for you both.

"I love you both," Tim whispered, his voice thick with emotion as he held you and Evan close, "More than anything in this world."

[unsoundedcomic]

Whumptober 2024 - 15 - "Childhood Trauma"

Will Argenti leaned in close, to be heard above the chatter of the busy tea house. "Do you ever dream about it?"

He sounded sad, uncertain. Mikaila wasn't so very much in the correct temper for sad uncertainty. "Look," she answered instead, grinning and pointing through the crowd. Her friend Genevieve was trying to balance four little plates of green tart, two in each hand. "Genny!" Mikaila called, "Genny, you're listing starboard! Ah! There you are, perfect! Upright! Upright! Impeccable! You're almost here-! Will, no!"

Will had moved to vacate his seat and help her, but Mikaila held him fast by the arm. "There is Mr Farold," she whispered, gesturing to a red-faced Soud scolding two Soud waitresses near the dessert case, "We need him to see her excellent balance and coolness under pressure. Genevieve is questing for employment here in the spring, while her Tomas ventures to Grettaerin on an errand for the family. Her father said she can wait for him if she brings in some coin while he is gone. Is that not the most romantic thing?"

"I don't want Genevieve serving here," Will groused, "She hates me and she'll skimp on pours."

"Genny is a perfect doll," Mikaila protested, "If she doesn't like you there is some good reason for it."

"I might have called Tomas a cocksucker once."

Mikaila's hand flew to her lips but the laugh was too fast for her, and spilled out everywhere. Will would never use such language with the other girls. But those were other girls. "What did Tomas do to you?" she asked merrily. Will shrugged a shoulder and started emptying his pipe into a drained tea glass.

"He was spelling his boots clean and I didn't like the way he asked me why mine were so muddied. He knew why. Cocksucker."

Mikaila exhaled through her teeth, one eye still on Genevieve's cake walk. "Is it growing worse, old bean?"

"I don't like pymary, is all," Will answered without answering, "I don't like it. You can tutor me until the silver's gone out my hair and into yours, but I'll never like it."

Mikaila didn't doubt it. She'd learned it was her good friend's heart and her good friend's memories that were in the way of her good friend's spellcraft. There was otherwise no reason why a young Silver gentleman with William Argenti's prospects had such difficulties conversing with the khert. "You think about it too much," she diagnosed, quieter, "I see it come upon you, when you cast. You tremble like the last… like the last bead of water, hanging to the kettle spout. You're so afraid of… what? Falling? Failing?"

Some guttural grunt hunched in Will's throat. He looked away. "I'm not bloody afraid. I just don't like it."

Wisely, Mikaila did not press the point. Genevieve had been stopped by Mr Farold. Some earnest conversation was happening there, but still the tart plates wobbled. How might Mikaila salvage them if they started to tip? So delicate, the motions so erratic. Her palms burned as she thoughtfully licked her lips and considered Momentum reversals. Oh, Ssael, would it be worse if Genny lost a plate or two or if four tarts catapulted up splat! against the ceiling?

Will watched her intently. Then, again, he asked: "Do you dream about it?"

"Hmm?" She jiggled her head a little as though dislodging a fly. "Sometimes. Less and less. But then I wake up, and it is today. The sun is high, there are new things to learn, and everyone I love is here and safe."

"Not everyone."

Mikaila's attention did not stray from Genevieve and her four plates.

"You remember him better than I do, Will. Don't think me wicked, but I'm happy to forget. Papa says memories are heavy, but we're the only ones stopping ourselves from setting them down."

"That doesn't make sense." Anger darkened Will's eyes to the colour of a storm's belly, and he scowled down at his weed pouch. Half his pinch was spilled to the tabletop. He gathered it up, tried to mash the moist strands together, but his hard wooden fingers were not well suited to the delicate work.

"How does it not make sense?" Mikaila asked gently.

"I was even younger than you when that monster- that monster ate my arm. But I haven't forgotten any of it. The stink of its mouth. The two-toes' eyes shining in the dark. And knowing that Roger Foi-Hellick was laughing about all of it; near but not near enough to kill him, hiding, laughing." The fingers of his simulacrum fumbled the pinch again. Mikaila touched his false wrist in a wordless gesture. He paused, and she gathered the fragrant strands herself.

"I think what happened to you was far worse," she whispered, pushing the wad into the pipe bowl, "And perhaps you haven't had… all I had. Perhaps it's worse for you now, even still."

"Don't say that. I don't want to hear that dogshit. Forget it, I'm fine. Everything in Durlyne is fine. And I don't dream about anything."

She put the pipe in his hand, closed his clicky false fingers over the stem, and pointedly did not light it with a spell. Will reached instead to his belt for a firestarter. Drag, scratch, flick! and then flame. It was a good smell. The weed caught, smouldered, and that smell was even better. Happier to associate it with Will than with a dead man. A dead man, impossibly tall, hunched over a desk in a messy library, puffing fragrant clouds, singing an old aria to himself while he scratched line after line in a book she was not allowed to read…

"My sincerest and humblest apologies for the wait, madame!" called Genevieve suddenly. Without a sound, a plate of green tart was settled atop the table - very professional! - then slid towards Mikaila, who clapped with showy gusto and appreciation.

And maybe a little pymary. She touched the base of her throat.

"I'VE NEVER EXPERIENCED SUCH EXQUISITE SERVICE!" boomed her voice over the heads of the tea house's clientele. Each one swivelled to face her. "I SHALL BE TELLING ALL OF MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF THIS FINE DINING EXPERIENCE."

Genevieve coloured prettily and Mikaila knew without asking that she'd been offered a job. "Thank you, madame! Honourable patron! Respected customer! And this man, is this your servant? Here you are, Silver Boy, some tart for you."

She set the tiniest of the slices in front of Will. A very long and curly blonde hair was draped across it, and the crust was broken. He sighed.

[alloutofgoddesses]

I am soooooo normal about tonight’s 9-1-1 episode. If you want to see how normal, there’s stuff to look at under the cut.

S08E11 - Holy Mother of God

- HE’S MOVING IN

- Hi Maddie you freaking cutie

- Oh Buck why are you sleeping in your big sisters house

- Hi Mama Nash and Brother Nash

- I just know this woman has some wack ass breath

- EVANGELICALS DOWN

- Heyyyy 118

- RAVIIIIIIII MY MOST FAVOURITE MAN

- Oh nooooo Bobby called him Eddie

- AND HE’S USED TO IT

- Oop

- What in the good goddamn fuck is a gennie

- So sorry Ravi

- HA LMAO I love you Bobby

- Buck on a ladder can only go well. It’s not like he’s cursed or anything

- Homophobia?

- Is this a bad time to say this actress looks and sounds like my partner’s mom

- Not Ann, the lady on the cross

- Like she isn’t but they could absolutely be related

- What is this actress’s last name bc if it’s the one I’m thinking of the possibility is Not zero

- “That work has already been done” lmao

- Buck is Jesus lmao

- Of course Eddie is missing this

- And the 118 go “Wait his mom is alive?!?!”

- Good night Jee!!

- Maddie. Shoes on the COUCH

- Place your bets now, how long will Maddie have a scar

- Btw thank you JLH for the hair upgrade

- Awwwwwww Buck :(

- He can’t make new friends, he only has one

- Hi Athena! Hi Bathena’s new house!

- I love youuuuuu whoever dresses Athena

- I love all the knitted stuff

- There is no reason for him to mend that fence if he doesn’t want to wtf

- Buck sweetie

- A WHOLE SHIFT LMAO

- Frolf. Frolf.

- Fucking FINALLY btw Ravi deserves friendship

- Charlieeeeeeee

- And Buck but I digress

- I’m sure she does

- Charlie we don’t care what that man thinks

- Bobert

- Ann

- YouTube Athenaaaaa I will always love her

- Athena being Southern Baptist does make sense but my knee-jerk reaction oof

- Damnnnnn Bobby

- Ravi I am so sorry x2

- Eddie joined an underground fight club

- Exactly Ravi

- Also Eddie became a dad at 19

- EEEWWWWWWWWWWWW

- Ravi why would you do this

- Eddie you petty ass bitch lmao

- Buck WTFFFFF dude

- Cut sleeves Buck I-

- Buck is a CUTIEEEEEEE

- Scream?!?!?!

- COMPETITION

- COMPETITION COMPETITION

- Uh huh

- HELLO?!?!?

- SO YOU DO HAVE FEELINGS FOR EDDIE?!?! WHAT

- Bye Tommy die in a hole :)

- LET! BUCK! SMASH THINGS!

- A life alert slay

- OH SHIT WHAT

- WHY WOMAN IN DIRT

- SIR

- Not hard enough to commit murder Buck. I know you’re salty rn but Not The Time

- RIPiss you piece of shit

- Well

- Wouldn’t be crazy

- Uh huh

- Well. I do definitely want you pining but not hopelessly

- Maddie I am sorry that your little brother is Like This

- Also I am Freaking Out I have gone back multiple times to get all this down

- BIG HOLE

- Tommy deserves mean :)

- It does suck I agree

- UNPACK WHAT BUCKLEY

- I SHOULD CALL HIM?!?!

- Oliver Stark is having the time of his life rn

- Maddie, again, he does not register his emotions unless they hit him over the head with a frying pan

- Ughhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

- The brothers Nash

- Hello totally unfamiliar hospital room that I have definitely never seen before

- ADHD man moves in, so real so true

- All the workout gear teehee I lob you Buck

- Have fun Athena

- Poor poor woman

- Night terrors oop

- A fire? On the firefighter show? No wayyyyyy

[bmbochangetales]

Whenever Genevieve was annoyed or fighting at her husband, she loved to yell the phrase “think again!” at him. They were at it again, arguing over whose responsibility is what I’m the house. They were raising their voices, and she was just about to say when Steve yelled at her.

“Think again Genevieve!” he snapped his finger at her. Her eyes widened from her own phrase used against her. She blinked a few times.

“OKAY I NEED TO CLEAN!” She was supposed to be angry. Was that what she was fighting for? It had to be. Well he could cook more.

“You need to cook more then!” She snapped, although her tone was less biting then moments previous.

“ Think again Genevieve!” He snapped in her face again. Her brain froze as it heard the command. Cooking and cleaning were her jobs. But they both worked a lot. But she was the woman so anything at home was he job. But he needed to help.

“Okay, but we both work so I need help!”

“You are too pretty to work. Think again Genni!” He snapped. Her brain blanked again. Genni loves to spend time looking pretty. Hair and make up were always a must. Cute outfits made her happy. She took too long to get ready so she had been fired from any job that would have her. It’s okay, being a housewife was fun and easy. But she needed a break sometimes for her hobbies like reading.

“Okay but when can I read?” She asked.

“You aren’t smart, only sexy, think again Genni!” He snapped. She blanked and as he eyes opened they seemed emptier. She was so silly. Pretty sexy goes like her don’t read.

“Okay but like, I need to like go to the gym and do like things to be hotter” she twirled her hair, thinking about how much fun she had being a dumb arm candy on Steve’s arm.

“Think again Big boobs Genni!” She was confused when she began feeling her chest get right and really hot. When she looked down her meager pair of breasts was quickly growing. She has always been small but now they were blowing up.

“These boobs are too big!” She tried to stuff them back in her shirt, to hide them. D cups. They were forcing her shirt lower around the neck and higher around the stomach. E cups pushing and bouncing out.

“You love huge Tits. Think again Genni!” He snapped. He had said the phrase wrong, the hypnotist was right. He had to be careful. He could have undone all his hard work.

“Oh god!” Boobies, Fat massive tiddies! Big fat fun bags. Steve needed her to have the biggest bouncy tits a ever.

“They aren’t nearly big enough!” Genni was trying to push them up and put them on display. When they stopped at JJ cups Genni had a weird feeling in her pussy. Like she wanted to orgasm but she couldn’t. Maybe they could have sex. She liked sex.

“So like, you’ll fuck Genni now?” She asked.

“Think again Gigi!” She went blank again, before she stripped naked. What was Gigi doing? She had fat cock sucking lips and she needed to suck Stevie’s perfect dick! He needed proper cock care before she moved on to her other duties. Edging while thinking about Steve and his cock while cooking and cleaning.

She licked up and down his cook like it was the best thing she had ever tasted before furiously sucking like she was starving. She let it pins into the back of her throat. After months of no sex, Steve wasn’t able to hold on long. He pulled out just in time to cover her face in his sticky cum.

“Don’t think again Gigi,” he snapped one final time. Gigi’s job was just to listen and obey Steve. Why would she need to think? Cock, cool, clean, cock.

Now Gigi is the perfect obedient wife, she doesn’t even need to be told to think again.

[geneva-lowe]

Before Geneva started dating Graham back in 2019, she had been seen as unattainable—and for a while, she truly was. Time and time again, she was asked out: to dinner, to parties, to see a film. But no matter the invitation, her answer was always the same.

“Hey, Genny. If you’re free tonight, want to come to Lucas’ party? As my date?”

Hector was a nice guy—charming, incredibly attractive, from a well-known family. Not the kind of guy who got turned down. But there was a first time for everything.

“Sorry, but I’m just not interested in dating right now.” It was the politest way she could reject him without outright admitting she didn’t find him interesting or worth her time. And unfortunately for him, he’d never get the chance to change her mind—because Geneva already had her eye on someone else.

Right on cue, Blaire came striding down the hallway, linking her arm with Geneva’s and seamlessly extracting her from the conversation.

“Sorry, Hector, I need Gen for an emergency cramming sesh,” Blaire said over her shoulder, barely slowing her pace.

Once they were safely out of earshot, the laughter they had been holding back spilled out.

“You’ve gotten really good at knowing when I need a rescue,” Geneva said as they neared their dorms.

“It’s easy. The second I see an attractive guy talking to you, I know it’s time to get you out of there.”

“You’re right. It’s like as soon as I say no to one, another shows up thinking he’ll be the one to change my mind.” Geneva had just pulled out her key, about to unlock the door, when Blaire suddenly remembered something and took off.

“Thank you again for the rescue,” Gen called after her.

And then, as if the universe had conspired to prove her wrong, the very man who would change her mind walked in.

Graham.

She saw him just as Blaire was leaving, the two exchanging a casual greeting. But as soon as he stepped inside, his focus shifted entirely to Geneva. His eyes locked onto hers, and her breath caught. Her pulse picked up—just a little. Had his eyes always been that shade of blue? Had his voice always sent a shiver down her spine?

When he reached her, he leaned casually against the doorframe, one hand resting against it. That familiar grin played on his lips, easy and confident.

“I’ve been looking for you,” he said.

Had his voice always sounded that smooth? Had it always been this hard to breathe around him?

“And now you’ve found me.” She was sure her voice gave her away—lighter, more playful. Flirty, even. She had never spoken to anyone else like this, and everyone knew it.

“What were you looking for me for?”

“To ask you to come to Lucas’ party with me tonight.”

No hesitation. No preamble. Just straight to the point. And he didn’t even look nervous. She liked that.

“Yeah, alright. Pick me up at eight.”

With that, she turned, unlocked her door, and stepped inside.

That was the first time Geneva broke her own rule.

And the first of many times she’d say yes to Graham—when everyone else had only ever heard no.

[silverskull]

Chenford and The Rookie S6

This is a post where I vent my frustrations with The Rookie season 6 and the Chenford breakup. I will take questions, but I do not guarantee an answer. Retain the fact that this is a TV show I am mad at, not someone/thing in your personal life.

This month/few weeks haven't been great for me to absorb what happened in the last episodes of the season. Some of the reasons are listed below before I start sounding off.

-Unrelated but irritating:

Working 3 jobs, only 1 is paid. 

Crunch time at all 3 jobs

Visiting family expecting all of my time (same crunch weeks as work)

-Related and disappointing:

Cancelled cameo

Cancelled convention appearance

Sloppy SM and PR, frequently missing Melissa

Short S6

Late S7 renewal announcement

Delayed start S6 and extra-long hiatus before S7

Specifics:

Okay, so in 606 Tim lied - so did Lucy and Lopez. Why was there no IA investigation for them or concern about their honour? We were led to believe in 214 (Casualties) that everyone involved in an off-book mission could be compromised. So now why is the fact that Tim is lying more important than either woman compromising their career? Why is there no acknowledgement of THEIR discomfort? Lucy was already on shaky ground after he let her take the blame for SOME RANDOM SCENE COPS??!!? at the clown murder before her detective exam, but now I’m supposed to be worried about Sergeant Spotless-Record Bradford and his honour?! He could have just let that Ray guy go, or even fucking TOLD SOMEONE. He'd still have saved the Venezuelan, but it would have been above board.

And then, apparently the breakup happened over the aforementioned lying and Tim and Mark’s coverup of Ray’s misdeeds. We got no further clarification on this. And I really tried. I read deeply, DEEPLY into Tim’s reasoning (there are tumblr posts and twitter threads). I gave him the benefit of the doubt. I earnestly plead with people on twitter to give it time. But instead of that patience paying off, all we got was Tim trying to act normal, Lucy justifiably pissed, and generalised "things" opened up in (blackmail) therapy?

(Here’s where people have been coming at me too: I don’t really care about the therapy storyline. Honestly, if it’s not done well, I don’t know why we bother. I'm not out to get therapy, I just don't think it's working here. Just mention it and carry on like with Lucy after DOD, or show some scenes from the damn sessions. But turning the therapist into a blackmailer for Monica, who was selling to The Swiss?!?? or an Argentinian??? (I don’t even know and I do not care, and I will not listen if you try to explain, lalalalalala) How did we even end up here???)

And it PISSES ME OFF that we spent years building up the momentum for there to be turbulence in their relationship over Lucy going UC. We were ready. We were waiting. The traps were laid and baited. And they just went PSYCH! IT’S TIM’S ARMY DAYS THAT ARE THE PROBLEM, EVEN THOUGH WE LEAD YOU TO BELIEVE HE WAS WELL ADJUSTED BACK IN 214 WITH MITCH AND 311 WITH KATIE BARNES LOLOLOL

We have spent SO MUCH time on Tim's backstory. In fact, here's a list!

Isabel - wife -> ex-wife, UC drug addict, unfaithful

Tom Bradford - abusive father

Army - Let Mitch get his leg blown up; told Katie to let it go with a ladybird; unblemished record;

Cop Buddies - Wrigley -> lazy; Mack -> Addict;

Love Interests - Isabel, Rachel, Ashley

Family - Genny and Tyler (and some other nephew, and apparently a niece and a drunk uncle)

Here is what we know about Lucy:

Mother, Vanessa and father, Patrick, are psychologists and hard on Lucy

Mother had an affair with a patient (also named Patrick) who is Lucy's father, but - boo - he's dead. So is bff Jackson.

Aunt Amy and unseen Nana are nice.

Lucy's other love interests (206 ex, Emmet, Chris, TIMOTHY BRADFORD) have been assholes.

NOW WHOSE FECKIN BACKSTORY DO WE NEED TO SEE MORE OF???

(sorry to those of you who have heard all this from me before, I am literally typing my sporadic thoughts with you guys into longform)

Look, no doubt characters on this show need therapy, but if we’re just gonna make it a vehicle for some random side-characters to have an entire story arc, then WHY? And like, we were misled with the Bailan getting-pregnant storyline too, only to end back up where we started with fostering - because it’s only worth second place if your ovaries are geriatric. LIKE? SO. MANY. PROBLEMATICS.

It’s as if The Rookie plotters were given the outline to the exam questions… then tried to make the answers fit all the WRONG QUESTIONS (I may be speaking from experience). If the cards are laid out one way, don’t struggle to make a different answer fit. Just use what you’ve got, and use it wisely. Especially when it’s been working so well.

And another thing!!! Canon is not fiction - we all know that. We’ve all seen the ones who get carried away with fanon Chenford and ‘Lucy is vegan’-type imaginings that were never actually true. But saying if we don't like canon then we should just write or read fiction to deal with it is only serving to send people deeper into denial. There is a point where you are not crazy, and the writers did something stupid and you start understanding what ‘jumped the shark’ actually means.

Speaking of outdated TV lingo, I saw a really good tweet from Brian_Cronin :

TV showrunners accepting the "truism" that getting "will they/won't they?" characters together hurts the show, always citing Moonlighting, is because they like "rules" that remove their responsibility, as "Don't write the show poorly once they're together" puts the onus on them.

This goes for Chenford. No, Eric Winter. No, Alexi Hawley. We don’t need to see a breakup because it’s more like ‘reality’. Here’s a shocker: we come to watch a COP show, in this age of police brutality, global dictatorships, internationally ignored genocide, timelines full of dead babies and the constant looming threat of utter climate destruction to ESCAPE from reality. We are not watching a COP SHOW - A SHOW ABOUT ONE OF THE MOST VIOLENT, ABUSIVE POLICE FORCES IN THE WESTERN WORLD - for “reality”. Get your fucking head in the game. We supported you through pandemics and strikes, and you pull this season of SHIT on us.

I love all the characters, but I’m hooked for chenford. And I feel really badly treated.

If I was marking your exam, you’d get a failing grade.

“Started off well - linked UC storyline to previously-hinted relationship trauma. Dropped the plot entirely mid-way and brought in a host of unknowns. Tried to blame breakup on army issues previously marked as ‘resolved’, instead of UC drugs and unfaithful wife/abusive father? Reused names multiple times. Confusing and inconsistent. Fatally underused Chen character - inexplicably failing downwards, while Nolan character inexplicably promoted upwards. Use basic research next time."

[bronx-bomber87]

Happy Saturday lovely Fandom :) We’ve reached my favorite episode of the season. I explained in detail to that ask I received about my fav eps why I love it so much. Great follow up to the previous episode. So much good content in this one. Married moments galore, growth, all the goodies. The name on this one is apt. Makes me breakdown every time I watch it. Let's get going.

4x09 Breakdown

First off imma need more Lucy/Genny scenes in S6. Their banter and bonding makes me so happy. Idk what Tim was expecting with these two together again. Of course they were going to bond more and chat. Get off track while doing so. Genny trying to reminisce about the house. Asking Tim if he remembers their mom used to make them pose for pics by that window? Lucy jumps in because why wouldn’t she? Joining in saying her mom did the same thing. The smile on Genny's face. She clearly enjoys Lucy's company. Probably thinking why isn't Tim dating her?

Tim doesn’t look amused by this at all. Even huffing a little bit. They continue on like he isn’t there. Talking about wrist corsages they had to wear. Genny saying 'Why was that ever a thing?' Tim cuts off memory lane. Stating they’re just here to fix this place up and sell it. That’s it. Lucy therapy mode is activated by this comment of course. Stating they’re closing an important chapter in their lives. They need closure by doing things like this. Reminiscing and such.

Tim being so very over this turns on the saw. Trying to drown her out saying ‘What? LOL Such a little shit ha I love him so much though. (So does Lucy heh) Lucy screams 'You need closure!' again despite him trying to drown her out. He screams again 'What?! 'She is so flirty when calls him an idiot. Mixture of exasperated and flirty. Like he’s her idiot and I love it sfm. Also let’s note this is clearly Lucy’s day off. How is she spending it?

Renovating Tim’s childhood home and bonding with his sister some more. Not soulmate behavior at all… It’s crazy just like in S2 you forget he’s dating Rachel. It’s the same in S4 only their bond is even stronger now. Where is Ashley is all this? Not here... Their married vibes are insanely high in this moment.

Tim’s exasperated face when she calls him an idiot haha Epitome of Sunshine x Grumpy. All in front to Genny too. Like Grey I’m sure she also knew long before they did. If you needed a future depiction of their marriage this is it. Sister in-law and all in the mix. This is so domestic I cannot stand it.

As they continue to tear down the wall Lucy is telling them how much she wanted a sibling. She begged her parents for one. Instead they got her a turtle ha. Not really the same thing... Saying it was cute but a little smelly. Then Genny comes in with the hilarious sibling slam. 'Cute and smelly sums up Tim’s teenage years' LOL Saying she didn’t miss much at all. Tim returns the sass in full above. The cute family bonding getting me all in my feels. Lucy is so happy to be apart of this.

Written all over her face. Future sister-in law bonding as well it’s so great. Unfortunately while they’re tearing down the wall they find a gun. Tim goes from light-hearted and fun to serious at the drop of a hat. Genny asks how long that could’ve been in there? Tim isn’t sure. That it’s hard to say. He shows Lucy that the serial number has been filed off. Lucy says they need to run ballistics. Tim nods agreeing with her completely. They're so damn in-sync and just a well oiled machine with work stuff. Just comes together so seamlessly.

Genny panics a little. Says they don’t actually think it was used in a crime do they? Tim lets her know it’s THEIR job to find out. Not just him THEIR. I love it. Genny is upset they’re leaving. Wondering if anyone else can handle this? Tim promises they’ll be back as soon as they can. Genny scoffs and says she knew he’d find an excuse to leave. Tim tells her this is serious. They have to go.

Genny doesn’t fight him and tells him to just go. Lucy’s face when Tim exits the room. She’s torn between comforting Genny and rushing after Tim. Naturally she goes after Tim. He needs her more and is clearly so upset. She’s worried about him so he takes precedence. It’s like an instinctual pull to him in that gif above.

You can tell she wants to stay to help Genny but Tim needs her more. Before we delve any further. Let’s talk about seeing Tim in jeans during this. Phew lord. Tall drink of sexy in tight blue jeans. I am here for it. Break me off a piece. Those biceps in that t-shirt too. Trying to kill me good sir. This man can make the simplest outfits sexy af. How does he do it? It's not fair to be this attractive.

Once Lucy catches up to him she says Genny has a point. He could call someone else to handle this. That he still can. Tim gives her a good company line. Saying 'How a good Sergeant doesn’t create work for his officers. Even on his day off.' Lucy of course isn’t buying what he’s selling. Knows this man better than anyone else. Asks if 'It’s not at all about the emotions this house is stirring up?'

Tim not wanting to deal with his emotions says ‘It’s just a house…’ How you acted all of 4x08 would contradict that statement my love. *sigh* Oh my poor Tim. Lucy hit the nail on the head and he doesn’t want to face it let alone deal with it. Lucy doesn’t press him any further. She knows her boundaries with him. That doesn’t erase the massive worry on her face though. If she could hug him right now she would.

We rejoin them at that station. First off how can two people exude so much chemistry just walking next to each other? Tall/Smol gloriousness. The little to no space between them as they walk together. Personal space? Never heard of her. That word is foreign to them and it makes me giddy. How Tim is drawn to her as they move. Looking like he’s reading the file. When really he’s just magnetically drawn to her. He physically can’t help it at this point.

I can’t get over Tim being in street clothes in the station. Mmm. Not only that but being in jeans plus his badge showing? My god I’m a puddle. This man is my undoing and I welcome it. *Ahem* Their dialogue here is married af. It’s so god damn natural I cannot stand it. Lucy being on it with ballistics. Saying she got it already. Tim comments that was fast. Lucy stating above how she achieved said fast results.

Forever love that silent communication they do. He doesn’t even need to say thank you. That cute little smile does it for him in the second gif. It’s his thank you and she reads it loud and clear. Her buying cookies just to expedite this case? Tell me your ship is in love without telling me they’re in love. Gah this ep is doing things to me. It’s like when you see a cute puppy and are overcome with cute aggression. I’m overcome with amazing cute ship aggression LMAO

Lucy gives him the details she has from the report. Saying the ballistics match a 25 year old murder. Someone named Frank Ochoa. Tim freezes and says he lived down the street from them. He also mentions he was 14 when he was murdered. Lucy continues on and says the investigation resulted in a botched home invasion. Tim replies they can rule that out now that they found the gun in their wall.

Lucy asks Tim if he remembers anything from that night? Tim tells her he had football game. His mom took him and Genny. When they got back it was crawling with cops. That his dad hated Frank. Lucy tells him he had an alibi. Frank’s wife. This incites Tim’s anger even more. Saying he was having an affair with her. She was no alibi.

His mom didn’t know but he did. Ugh. Poor Tim having to live with that. To protect his mother’s feelings by living with it. You can see the hurt on his face. The anger welling up inside of him. So much so when Lucy tries to theorize with him he just says I don’t know. So overcome with emotions of his past. I wanna hug him this entire episode.

This next section we see protective/worried Lucy come out. Honestly she’s present most of this episode tbh. She finds Tim in the hallway headed towards interrogation. Asking what he’s doing? Tim lets her know Monica Ochoa is in interrogation. That he’s going to get to the bottom of this. Lucy stops him right away. Knowing he will go in there like a raging bull full of emotions. Tim shoots back she’s his father’s alibi.

She has the answer to whether it was her or his dad that killed Frank. He's so antsy to have answers. His anxiety coming off him in massive waves. Luckily Lucy is well versed in the ways of Tim Bradford. Knows exactly how to handle this. She agrees but says he can’t be the one to question her. That he will have an immediate bias towards her. Lucy does what she does best. Tells him what he needs to hear. Saying he can’t be the one to do this.

They need to do this the right way if they're gonna tackle this together. The best part is he agrees and hands the file over to her. No fight in him at all. My damn heart. I'm bursting. The immense amount of growth in this man. Seeing her reasoning right away, handing it over knowing she’s right and trusts her to interrogate Monica. The levels of growth for them and Tim as a person are off the charts. I adore him pointing to her then handing the file right over. Not giving it a second thought that she is right. Not only is he trusting her to do this correctly. It’s a family matter he’s letting her handle.

I cannot emphasize enough how huge this is. How far we’ve come from where we started. It’s moments like this where we truly get to reap the reward of all the build up. How Tim ‘I don’t talk about my personal life’ Bradford is handing over the most personal thing he could to Lucy. Saying you’re right, I trust you, let’s do this. To have this guarded man hand the reins over to Lucy is colossal. That wall of his with her is in damn near ruin at this point.

Tim watches from observation as Lucy handles questioning. Monica is defensive right off the bat. Dodging all of Lucy’s questions. Lucy gets her back on track though. Has her recite what happened that night. She says she was over with Tom (Tim's father) doing her taxes. He was a CPA so she went to him for help. When she got home their house has been broken into. Found Frank’s body in kitchen. Lucy tries to poke at the affair a bit more. Trying to get her to admit to it.

Asking if she was with the Bradford’s a lot? If so we're the kids there? Did Tom leave the house at any point while helping her? Monica gets even more defensive and gets up to leave. Lucy isn’t able to keep her in the room much longer. Suspicious af behavior. Tim can’t stand her up and leaving. He confronts her in the hallway. It goes about as well as you’d expect. If you think she was defensive with Lucy amplify that by ten with Tim.

When she takes off Tim says she’s covering for him. Lucy says maybe…but they can’t prove that. For first time he’s not looking at something with cop eyes. Thankfully he has Lucy who is. He’s so determined to see this the way he wants to. To nail his dad for something. If he does it’ll be cathartic for him. Almost likes forcing his father to atone for all his sins with this one crime.

Tim goes to see his father and it’s hard to watch. Tim has tears in his eyes from the moment he steps into that room. All his pent up emotions barreling out of him. He tries to keep himself in check and it gets the best of him. You can hear the hurt in his voice as he speaks to his father. I know that hurt well. His father joking the nurses love him. But not enough to give him a shot of patron. Tim is so irritated with him. Annoyed he always finds people to take care of his even when he doesn’t deserve it. Tom asks him if has something on his mind?

Tim brings up finding the gun, Frank Ochoa, his wife. His father denies knowing her cause he’s awful. Tim letting him know he knew about the affair. He tries to deny it further and Tim lets him know he caught them when he was 13. His father finally giving in with an 'Oh crap.' Then Tim says something that breaks my heart. ‘For some reason I still don’t understand. I lied for you. Lied to mom.’ You can see how that ate at him to do so. He was too young for such a burden.

I think the reason he doesn't understand is he wanted his dad to be proud of him. It sounds messed up but I get it. Wanted him to praise him for something. Anything. Give him an 'Atta Boy.' I so understand that. You’d think the relationship I have my own parents their opinion would mean nothing. Now it does less so than it used to. But there’s still something deep down inside me wants them to be proud of me. Praise me. Say I did a good job. Instead of being disappointed.

It’s some crazy DNA thing with your parents. Where even if you’re on bad terms there is still part of you that wants that acceptance. When really it should be the other way around. Tim wanted his dad to recognize what he had done for him. Even now he wanted that and all he got was emotional abuse as his reply. Belittling him and calling him ‘Poor little Tim-Tim’ I bet you Tim was a very emotional sensitive child like me and he was shut down constantly like I was. Hence that nickname. Ugh. I hate his father so much. Tim asks why he did it? Ruining one family wasn’t enough for him?

His father gets out of bed. Tim tells him to get back in. His father being defiant knowing Tim won’t lay a hand. Says ‘Make me.’ Tim can’t even look him in the eye and his father tacks on ‘That’s what I thought.’ This hurts my soul watch. Feels like a glimpse into how things were for him growing up. Anytime Tim stood up for himself or Genny. This was probably the reaction he got. Him goading him into a reaction. Then when he didn’t get it belittling Tim was the next step for not doing so. *sigh* Seeing the emotional abuse in action is hard to swallow. I hate seeing Tim shrink like he does in his father's presence.

That strong confident man we’re all used to reduced in an instant due to his father. Breaks my damn heart. His father confesses to killing Frank. Goes after Tim some more and says screw him. Calling Tim mockingly a ‘big man’ for dragging him away from his death bed. Tim tells him ' This isn't over..' tears threatening to spill from his beautiful eyes. I wanna hug him so much. His father tells him to get the hell out. *heart clutch* When a parent cuts you down like that and you’re too stunned to really reply. It's a helpless feeling. The rage I feel is a culmination for him and what I’ve dealt with myself.

We return to Tim at the station. Ready to write his father up. Man on a mission really. Lucy comes over to talk to him. Tim word vomits all over her. Coming out faster than Lucy can get a word in. Asking her a favor and getting the DA contacted for him. Lucy finally is able to tell him to stop. Let’s him know she brought Monica back in while he was away. Tim is confused and asks why?

One of the two things I adore about this scene is Lucy’s initiative here. She knew from very jump how emotionally compromised he was. He only saw one narrative and ran with it. Blinding him to any other possibilities this case had. Lucy was the one with cop eyes for him. Brought Monica back in knowing she could get more out of her solo.

The second thing I love is once again is the personal growth from Tim. He doesn’t question her doing this. Isn't mad about it. Hears her logic and her telling him like it is like she does best. Letting him know his judgement was clouded. That Tim couldn't see past the version he wanted. Tim doesn’t disagree. At all. She took charge of this case and he’s not upset in the least. Just curious and asks her what she’s found? I’m just so proud of him. It’s not easy to work on yourself and he has so very much. It shows so much in moments like this.

We cut to Tim back at his dad’s room. There is a finality in the air as he walks in. Gives his dad that shot of patron he has been wanting. Like Tim is giving him little something to gain passage into talking him. To say how he’s really feeling. Calls his dad out on what really happened. What he learned from Lucy. Frank was beating Monica. She lost it one night and killed him. Ran to Tom cause she was terrified. He helped her stage the house.

His father goes off saying she deserves a medal for what she did. That he was an abusive brutal bastard. This where Eric should win all the awards. He is so masterful in his inflections, The emotion in his voice, The tears in his eyes, His facial expressions, Everything. How he calls his father out for being the exact same thing. His reaction is the same as my mother is anytime I bring up something from our childhood. Defensive saying they’re nothing like what you’re bringing up.

Being defensive because they know it’s true. Or so deluded they truly think they did no wrong. Not sure which one is worse tbh. Tom trying to take credit for who Tim became. That he turned him into a man. His reply is so so good. The deep emotion’s in his voice as he tells him off. Saying he became who he was despite him. Yeah you did babe. As did I with my parents. His final words an amazing slap to his father's face. ‘Goodbye dad. I hope it hurts.' I hope it does too.

I would like to say first I adore her coming to hospice with him. Knowing he would need it after confronting his father. Knowing him so well. He would never ask for her support directly. Lucy recognizing this and coming for this reason. He needed her and she knew it. She watches him emerge from his father’s room so distraught. Immediately asking if he’s ok? Lucy looks like she wants to cry the minute she see's him. He looks so broken and sad. Melissa and Eric are just incredible in this scene. That look of intense worry on her face. my heart.

Tim telling her right away he sure as hell isn’t. Divulging his feelings and showing how deeply hurt he is. That his father protected Monica. The way his voice breaks as he tells Lucy this. How his father never did anything to protect him and Genny. All he ever did was tear them down. Physically hurt Tim on top of emotionally damaging him for life. The pre-tears in his eyes when he says but he didn’t think twice for his mistress. Broke half a dozen laws for her...

His reply a mixture of incredible anger and deep hurt. Lucy updates him saying Monica is being processed now. That they probably won’t go after his father. Since he’s on his death bed. Tim is so drained and resigned at this point. Says 'It doesn’t matter. He will get judged soon enough..' The worry is still coming off Lucy in waves. She knows he’s holding something else back. Something that is still hurting him. She is just waiting for him to share it.

Lucy is pleading him with her eyes above to share it. It comes shortly after this. The line that circles us back to the one Lucy said toward the end of 4x08. The 'Tim Test' line she let slip. One that has been eating at him ever since. A thought that no doubt was destroying his mental health further. Adding to his overall anxiety about the connection between him and his father. Worried Lucy viewed him the same way as his father. That she associated his tests with training to the abuse his father put him through. It’s heartbreaking to watch Tim say this to her. Almost begging Lucy to relieve him of his hurt. His deep seated anxiety about this.

To alleviate him of the bottomless worry that she’s made an association between how he was abused and she was trained. NEEDING her to let him know they’re not the same. Because if they are it’ll destroy him. To think he hurt one of his favorite people because he was just like his father. It's not a thought he can handle. The fear in his eyes thinking he had done to her what his father had done to him is breaking him. Tim is unraveling at this point.

It’s the way his body language is defense and guarded as he speaks his lines above. Like he’s bracing for impact. Waiting for her to give into his deepest fears. He’s expecting the absolute worst due to his damaged past. Lucy with all the empathy in the world splayed across her face says ‘I know. You’re nothing like him…I...’ Too stunned to finish her sentence. She's hurting right along with him. Because she is seeing the load he's been carrying and wanting to relieve him of it so badly. She truly believe's he isn't like him. Needs him to know this.

I mean back in 1x04 when she defended Tim to Nolan. When she was at the height of her tests. She said he was 'Calculating not cruel.' Lucy not once believed that of him. Always saw his good heart from day one. You can see Tim take a step back from her in the first gif. His body innately trying to protect himself. He looks so broken I wanna cry. He so desperately wants her to assuage him of his fears.

Yet when she does he can’t believe the grace she is extending to him in this moment. The way he steps back instinctively. Like he isn’t sure he can trust this. That last bit of his wall holding him back in this moment. His gut instinct to retreat from having any emotions. Especially this openly with someone. Lucy can’t stand him pushing away when he’s hurting this badly. Doesn’t waste anymore time and encases him in her arms.

Rushing to not only reassure him but to comfort Tim on a physical level. Giving him the solace he didn’t even know he needed. She does this because if she doesn't she'll start crying herself. She has never seen him this vulnerable. This open and its making her emotional too. Lucy is wanting to absorb his pain, his fears and most of all put him back together. She does so with this beautiful embrace. His beautiful sunshine human wrapping him up in her arms is just what he needed. Pushing away his dark clouds with this hug. He is stiff at first with the initial contact then gives in fully below.

Hands down my favorite hug of all time because of the emotions that go with it. She then reassures him once again. 'You're nothing like him.' We watch Tim melt into her arms fully giving into the comfort she is providing. That wall she’s been chipping at since S1. That’s gone now. Utter rubble after this moment. Lucy validating him is everything his soul truly needed. His person confirming he was a good man. Tim’s body finally surrendering and sinking into her embrace once she spoke those words again. Reaffirming it for him.

Her opinion mattering the most. This moment screaming that in every way. Hearing this from her was EVERYTHING to him. Absolutely everything. I remember when I first watched this moment I was in awe of it. How perfectly he fit into the crook of her neck. Once again they fit together like a perfect puzzle piece. I also knew we were headed towards our endgame. This was our pre-getting together season. The emotional depth out of this episode alone I felt it. The hug solidified that gut feeling.

One of the many reasons why this is my favorite episode of the season. These are the moments I love so much because they’re developing emotionally, as characters and their relationship as a whole. It’s why they work so well in S5 when it finally happens. The bond, the growth, the things they went through together before they got together. It’s what created this amazing base they’re standing on now in s5 and what we will get in s6. I love their journey so much. Wouldn’t trade a single thing in this slow burn. Not one.

Tim shows back up at the house. Looks like Genny has done a lot do work solo. You see the guilt splayed all over his face. He apologizes for not helping out more. Genny tells him she’s used to cleaning up messes by herself…Tim apologizes again for that and says he knows she is. He wants to be a better big brother. Genny compliments him says he’s not that bad. When he’s around....

Tim tells her that’s all gonna change. He’s going to visit for every holiday and call twice a week, and he’ll handle fixing and selling this house. That she should get home to her family. Genny replies sweetly and says he’s her family too. I do love their scenes a lot. I need more of this in s6.

She has them make a deal. That they’ll do this together and be done with it. All of it. I love this so much. There is a lot I don’t love about my childhood. But the one thing I’m eternally grateful for is the relationship with my baby sister. You can’t beat that bond. I am so happy for Tim to have it. Her asking about the gun was too funny LOL I imagine he would tell her even if it’s awkward af.

Side Notes-Non Chenford

Gonna be honest didn’t care about anything else in this ep. Other than Tamara owning Smitty’s ass repeatedly in this ep haha

Thank you forever and always to those who like, comment and reblog these reviews. Makes my heart happy. Shall see you all Monday with 4x10 :)

[theflyindutchwoman]

Omg I just realized something and I had to tell you cause ✨besties✨

In season 4, when they’re dealing with Tim’s dad. Lucy says the thing about “Tim tests” right? And you can see how hurt Tim is.

AND IT JUST OCCURED TO ME THAT THEY DONT TALK ABOUT AGAIN UNTIL DAYS MAYBE WEEKS LATER! After he talks to his dad one last time

Which means poor Tim had probably when sitting with the thought that he may have been just like his dad for doing those tests to Lucy for so long 😭 like he was sitting with that for days!

And I am very upset about this.

And now I'm very upset about this too. Or again. Why would you do that to me? I thought we were friends! I try so hard not to think of that episode (4.08) because it hurt my soul and you went there 😭

I'm not sure how many days have passed in-between (based on the union election plotline, I'd say days rather than weeks)… But regardless, you're probably right that Tim spent some time dwelling on that remark. Not just that, but also all the painful memories that were brought back by Genny (and I hate this so much). Though we know that Lucy's opinion matters a lot to him, so that one had to cut deep. Which is why i want to think that the hug was mere days later, you know?!

On that topic… I'm really curious to know how Lucy ended up helping Tim and Genny remodel their childhood house… Did he invite her because he wanted/needed her with him? Was she around when he agreed on a day and she volunteered to help them?

[splynter]

The gossip group has arrived!! These are employees of Dyode’s house who Capa works with the most, all with their own specialties and interests :]

I’m gonna elaborate more on each one in a read more cuz good god there’s a lot

Genny or Gen - She/her

Gen is a lesbian trans woman who has been there since the beginning. She’s one of Dyode’s first employees and likely the one who knows him best, aside from Emmit. She’s had many job descriptions in her time working in Dyode’s house, but her current position is supervisor of his estate. All the other employees have a connection with her in some way or another, and she cares for her team like they’re her family

She smacks Capa behind the head a lot because he’s a rat bastard who can’t leave anything alone

Capa - He/they

Capa is the newest employee in Dyode's roster. He's prickly and headstrong and money focused, and he's basically the jack of all trades of the group. The middle man who blends with everyone else's skills. He started out just doing his job and clocking out, but eventually noticed how absolutely down bad Dyode and Emmit were for each other and couldn't fuckin stand it. Whenever he tries to set these two up to kiss or confess, the other employees basically tackle him and shove him into the Capa corner. NO INTERFERING

He's forever pissed about this

Logi - They/them

Logi is the scheduling assistant, statistician, spreadsheet guy, all that sort of thing. They were originally hired to do show scheduling and then got pissed that EVERYONE’S schedule wasn’t optimal, so they started inserting themself into everything else until Dyode noticed and changed their pay and job description. They’re not married, they just wear the ring to get people to leave them alone LMAO

They like to sit on Li's shoulders and use him as a pedestal to direct people. They're only in the gossip group cuz they've got their hands in Everything, and cuz they think Dyode and Emmit are funny

Li - He/him

Li is the heavy duty maintenance guy who usually works on the bigass shit like speakers and plumbing (lmao) and big work. He was born with concordian giantism and deals with some joint pain if he isn't active enough. He tends to neglect himself in favor of working more and harder because he wants to prove himself. He wants to make sure he's earned his pay, despite always doing well with everything he touches.

He gets along with basically everyone on staff. It's really hard to hate him when he always offers a hand, or a boost, or a pat on the head

Curre - They/she

Curre is twins with Forme. They're good with decor and outfit work, and also pretty tech savvy all things considered. They usually wear earbuds while they work so they can groove and work at the same time. She writes fanfiction and makes fan edits shipping Dyode and Emmit, and working directly in his house just gives her more material for her stories.

Capa beta reads her fanfiction because he's detail oriented and the kind of prick that would correct someone's grammar randomly

Forme - They/he

Forme is the younger twin by 11 minutes. Like his sibling, he's great with decor and fashion, and usually handles Dyode's vinyl collection and such. He has a habit of bugging the house with microphones and cameras for the sake of his sibling's fanfiction endeavors, but Gen usually catches him before he can go too far. Sometimes he bakes treats for the group and makes really good coffee and tea that the group can have while sharing the latest news on Dyemmit pining

It's usually Forme or Curre that's paired with Capa because he needs the buddy system to keep him from tampering with Dyode and Emmit's clueless pining

I accidentally got way too attached to these characters. This isn't even half of what their stories are, jesus christ

[loudn-mcyt]

SBK Finale Liveblogging: AvidMC

Spoilers below the cut:

AVID YOU MOTHER🔔ER YOU CANNOT START YOUR FINALE WITH THE FANFIC. I REFUSE. NO.

Why is this actually emotional...wait they didn't even get to leave together in milkman's episode aughhhh

The only birch boys happy ending is in the fanfic...

AVID WAS NICE??? ABSOLUTELY NOT

This animation is so cool...

Monkeyvid...we might not get monkeyvid anymore...

"Except for this one. I don't like this one." LMAO but also ouch

The excerpts on the screen as he tries not to tell milkman what the book is

Avid. Avid don't do it. Don't tell him about the duper. AVID-

"Vintage and Doovid showed me and they were so scared" and then he *giggles*. Gee avid I wonder why

"Falling blocks????" AVID

Avid that is not a good explanation this is 100% your fault

Love that this may have caused the apocalypse and it's not even in Milkman's pov. He's like "if I don't think about how this apocalypse started it can't hurt me"

Monthly void meetings with marmalade that's so fun

Just making small talk while tossing valuables into the void this is so fun

The falling blocks starting and both of them starting to notice

Avid gets half an idea of an upvoid in his head and immediately jumped to conclusions

He goes to tell Vintage about the world ending...I don't know if this is a good choice

"The void will not protect you" is that Vintage or Volm saying that...

At least he's blaming himself for it and not milkman tbf

"cause it was funny" yeah that tracks

Avid having 3 simultaneous panic attacks

Avid and his savior complex...he just wants to protect his friends but he keeps bringing them into danger...

Marm immediately checking that he isn't going to tube people again is funny

I love this build it's so cool

The blue carpet...the sky is the dividing line. Skyblock is the dividing line...

Tube is SELLING THE DRAGON EGG? TUBE WHAT DO YOU MEAN

I was so excited to see tube and immediately got distracted by that

"I will offer you six golden bananas and a hug" "that would be the first one he's given me"

Tube...

Marm offering to take Tube on a trip to another world...and they didn't take the offer?

M1g stole the egg! M1g stole the egg!

GENNY IS HERE

GENNY I LOVE YOU GENNY HATCHED THE DRAGON EGG HATCHED

SHES SO CUTE I LOVE HERRRR

The cannon is so cool

Avid finally gave Tube a hug...

Avid just choosing to ignore the ritual platform lmao

The void/upvoid bit is so funny I wish it could go on longer

I could overanalyze who went to which side of the cathedral but I am resisting the urge

Actually I lied. Anathra Acorn Kittrix Trog and M1g on the void side feels very fitting, with Vintage Doovid Leon Tube Milkman and Viking on the upvoid side. Ruby torn between the two.

Ruby torn between...he can't bring himself to be near to Vintage. There's still too much uncertainty there, at least as far as we know now. But they could never align with the Void, either - she watched it kill Rue, after all.

Doovid airlines lmao

Viking trying so hard to turn it into a farm

Moving to the end and the suburbs is so funny wait

Avid that is not helpful screaming every person for themselves is not helpful

"I just need to do nothing. Because every time I do something it makes things worse." Oh avid...

Cloudless kicking in as the blocks start sticking...

That's so many blocks

Everything covered in the blocks is actually so sad I'm gonna cry

Avid and Marm trying to get out together...

Everyone's already left? That's reassuring but I do not trust it

I've played these games before. IVE PLAYED THESE GAMES BEFORE THERE IS NO WAY THEY MAKE IT OUT SAFE

Cloudless making me cry...curse you avidmc and musithical...

I RECOGNIZE THOSE MOUNTAINS

Did they actually make it out??? Marm is disconnected from the void??

"No one knows you're here" "not even...him." "no. I would know if they knew."

So both Avids are on Avidventures but monkeyvid is hiding from Olm...and Marm has lost her void magic but seems to clearly be magical still

Here's how my "the void and Olm are old enemies" theory can still win

I'm gonna be honest. That was a genuine good ending, or something close to it.

I was so sure one of them was going to get left behind this makes me happy they still have each other...after all this time, they always have each other. Avid got left behind once. Marm won't let it happen again.

(ignore everything happening to him on Avidventures lmao)

[architect-2015]

For the world to see.

Genevieve Heyman and Roman Reigns are the couple everyone wants to be.

Married in 2014, the couple have had a non stop life since, a reality TV show, a first set a triplets: Koa, Layla and Elle.

You’d think the couple would stop having children after that, Joe being on the rise to be the top dog in the WWE having a full time schedule and Genevieve being the head of creative backstage, the husband and wife duo are very busy people so it came with a shock that Genny was pregnant again, with another set of triplets!

Aveline, Levi and Max were born in 2019, the boys Koa, Levi and Max were inseparable, independent and the wildest kids you would ever meet. Whilst the girls Layla, Elle and Aveline were complete daddy’s girls.

The family showcased a lot of their home and family life in a reality TV show called Behind the curtain.

The show had given an opportunity to show the world how much the Anoa’i family has grown since the debut of the Wild Samoans: Afa and Sika.

————

“Good morning!”

The episode starts with Genevieve, Levi resting on her hip, descending the stairs. Joe is stood over in the kitchen, cooking up his famous blueberry pancakes for the children.

“Mum, dad said that Uncle Jon and Auntie Trin are coming today!” a very giddy Elle ran up to her mothers frame, wrapping her arms around Genny’s waist.

“They are baby, so that means you’ve all got to go get changed out of your pyjamas. Aveline, mummy will come help you with your hair once she’s spoken with daddy.”

With that the 35 year old women sends her children up the stairs.

Walking over to the stove, Viv stands behind her husband, wrapping her arms around his waist and resting her head on his broad back.

A sigh leaves her lips, Joe immediately notices this. Turning he takes his wife face between his hands.

“What’s wrong baby girl?”

“Hmm, I’m just feeling a bit off. Threw up when I woke up. I think it’s because works a bit stressful right now. Wrestlemania is coming up so i’m trying to work out all the final details with storylines.”

Joe nods in understanding, Wrestlemania is a stressful time for everyone talent and crew alike. Genevieve has a tendency to push herself too hard to create the perfect show.

“Well mama, how about me and Jon take the kids out and you and Trin can have a chill girls day, see if that helps you feel any better.”

“That’s sounds wonderful, thank you.” Ending the conversation with a kiss, Genevieve walks upstairs to go tend to her youngest daughters wild hair. Joe turns back to the stove to finish breakfast.

————

Trinity and Genevieve are sat on the lounge chairs in the garden of Joe and Gen’s Tampa home.

“Girl are you okay, Joe said you haven’t been well?” Trinity question the women across from her.

“I’m just not feeling like myself, i feel so like sluggish and just tired. I’ve been throwing up and i’m just so bloated. It’s really not what i needed this week.”

This week was crucial for Viv, she had to make Wrestlemania perfect.

“Genny, when was the last time you were on your period?”

Genevieve’s face instantly pales, she was late.

“Oh shit Trin, i’m late.”

————

“Obviously me and Joe are already parents, and it’s the best thing in the entire world. Becoming a mother has made me a better women in many ways, but already having two sets of triplets and having the work schedule like me and Joe have can prove difficult. I’m grateful for my friends and family who help out with babysitting when needed. If i am pregnant i’m just hoping it’s not more triplets!”

————

A pregnancy test sits face down in Gen’s bathroom that is currently occupied by Trinity. Having had the trust of revealing the result to an anxious Genevieve.

An alarm rings out through the bedroom indicating the time to wait is over, in one swift movement Trinity flips over the rest.

A light gasp exits her mouth followed by one sentence.

“Mama, congratulations you’re pregnant.”

“Of course i’m happy to be pregnant again, and no matter how many children i have the feeling of overwhelming joy is indescribable. I know Joe will be ecstatic when i tell him the news.”

————

It’s been a week since Genevieve found out she would introducing a new life to this world, to their family and she was yet to tell Joe.

A romantic dinner was set up with the intention of being the location of the reveal. Joseph sat across from his beloved wife, a steady conversation drifted between the couple.

“Baby i have something to tell you.” Genevieve muttered to her spouse. No matter how many pregnancies she has had, sharing the news always made her nervous.

“What’s wrong baby girl? are you okay?”

“Joe i’m fine, i’m really happy in fact. Handsome, you’re gonna be a dad to another little baby” She shyly placed the test in the table.

Joseph quickly stood up and rounded the table to take his wife into his arms.

“Baby i swear down if it’s another set of triplets i’m gonna murder you” was the phrase he was met by, slightly muffled by his shirt, he sensed the humour in the statement.

“Baby girl, we’ll have to wait and see.”

————

The pregnancy of Genevieve Anoa’i has been going fantastic, she was very familiar with the feeling of morning sickness and her loving husband was very familiar with how to help.

Revealing the news to Paul was a highlight, the short man burst into tears. Paul and the Anoa’i family had a very close bond even before the romance of Geni and Joe so the pride he felt in a new addition was worth the tears.

Many backstage moments were showcased on the show, the twins arguing over who the best uncle would be, Trinity convincing Geni the baby should have a mini ‘feel the glow’ outfit.

Hunter and Stephanie were such inspirational characters in Genevieves life so to find out baby Anoa’i would be named in honour of them caused Steph to become a blubbering mess!

————

“Baby Anoa’i will be named after both Stephane and Paul/ Hunter. Since i joined this company they have truly helped me in many ways and trusted my ideas to help further the WWE and i’m truly grateful.”

“You say the baby will be named after both of them? so a first name and a possible middle name?”

“Oh no, both individual names.”

Geni’s light chuckle is what closes out the confessional.

——

“Good afternoon guys, my name is Doctor Hemp and i’m just gonna check on little baby if that’s okay?”

The segment starts out with the Anoa’i’s in a hospital room, a check up for the mum and the baby. A cold gel is applied to the pregnant women’s belly and the doctor begins the ultrasound.

“Oh my! would you look at that! you’ve got a healthy set of twins! how exciting!”

Genevieve’s head slowly turn towards her husband who is wearing a sheepish smile, it had been an ongoing conversation between the couple. No More Triplets and whilst twins is two not three Joe knows what she is thinking.

“Joe baby i love you, but twins. You and your family genes for multiples is killing me here.” He voice hold a tone of humour so Joe and more importantly the nurse knows she’s happy with the news.

Joes hand strokes his wife’s hair, his eyes glued to the little screen. Two little babies.

“At least it not more triplets.” That’s all that leaves Joes mouth seeing as he’s quite chocked up, he loves being a father, he gets to be a father to two more little kids.

A gentle laugh echos throughout the hospital room.

————————

Delia Stephanie Anoa’i and Jasper Paul Anoa’i were born on the 14th of July 2022.

The children are loved endlessly throughout the backstage area by many. The Anoa’i children will continue to be a part of the great Samoan Dynasty with many of Joe and Gen’s children following in their father’s footsteps.

With a family of the size of theirs, even with its high and lows, there will never be a shortage of love.

@bakugoumarianawrites

Okay i know this is shit but i had writer block for the longest amount of time and had no idea how to finish this. Feel free to use the request to write your own version!

[sailorscout]

Okay….ive watched…..

I’m soo mad at Tim but HE NEEDS TO GO TO THERAPY and then come back to Lucy tbh. I really hate the way he broke up with her and the way he lied to her because what the fuck, and honestly if he’d been truthful to Lucy in the beginning I’m 100% sure she would’ve been very helpful and also supportive and you can be in a relationship and go to therapy BUT character wise this tracks as very Tim Bradford. He does what he thinks in noble by falling on the sword and instead of trusting in Lucy’s ability to love him despite his faults, ruins everything. But this could be a good arc for Tim to grow as a man. I don’t think this is the end of Chenford. And I do think Lucy should make Tim WORK for her back, but ultimately with how he’s handled everything the last two episodes of course he broke up with her, that man hates himself 😭😭😭

So what I’m saying is, Tim, you’re being an asshole. You don’t get to use your feeling shitty about yourself to break up with someone who loves you! Go get some therapy and go get on your knees and grovel for forgiveness. But I also feel like we can’t be as hard on Tim as I’ve seen mainly because this man has such a warped sense of self and basically every relationship he’s had (mom dad Isabel even genny) outside of Lucy has been dysfunctional in someway. We shouldn’t let him off the hook by any means but also this idiot needs a lot of healing.

Now if only the writers would use two episodes worth of time to delve into the trauma surrounding, oh idk, like most of Lucy’s first two years as a cop or being a WOC or the whole detective thing idk idk

[cal-daisies-and-briars]

Ahh make me write!!! I know the following is a lot so if you can’t do them all it’s fine. I know I normally don’t put this many but I have had a tough week and figured why not. However just one line from any fic will make me happy and seriously don’t feel pressured or anything to write them all (or any at all). I appreciate all you do write.

🦮 🦮🦮🦮🦮🦮🦮🦮🦮🦮🦮🦮🦮 (I’m really excited about Cranberry!!!!!!)

🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊

⚡⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️

🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨

🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸

🔮 🔮

📚

Oh no! I hope your weekend has improved things. Sending love.

I can absolutely do all of this. In fact, it's my pleasure.

39 for 🦮:

---

“It’s fine. I can do it.”

He rises out of his chair stiffly, leg still aching, and pushes his chair back. His stomach twists with apprehension as he looks at how far his phone has slid under the table. 

“Buck, really,” Maddie says. “I don’t mind.”

“Just let me!” Buck insists, tone a bit short. 

Everyone at the table is watching them, he realizes. Buck’s cheeks burn. 

“Fuck,” he grumbles under his breath. 

Buck lowers his sore body onto the hard tile floor, carefully, putting pressure on his knees. His left thigh trembles a little. He crawls forward a foot or two, head under the table, and slowly reaches his arm forward until he can grab the awkwardly located phone, wedged between two legs of tables the restaurant pushed together to accommodate their party size. Stuck in such a way no one could use their foot to kick it to him. 

Phone secured, Buck reaches back, pockets it, and retreats out from under the table. He moves a little too quickly, desperate for this to be over, and his prosthetic obviously doesn’t react with him. It’s awkward and clunky and he stumbles a little as he climbs to his feet. His head hits off the underside of the table, sending more pain shooting across the backside of his skull.

In the back of his mind, Buck can see Cranberry’s face, phone resting gently in her mouth, tail wagging. Like, look how easy this could have been. 

Maddie reaches to help him and he shirks away from her. He straightens up, brushes the grime from the floor off his pant legs, and then plunks heavily back into his chair. All the while, the table watches with quiet discomfort. Pity, probably. They probably fucking pity him. Buck wants to disappear. 

“I’m fine,” Buck insists. “Keep eating, guys.”

Another beat of silence. 

Bobby, who seems to be reading Buck’s brain and needs, turns to Hen and Karen. 

“So, tell me about IVF. How’s that going?”

Conversation resumes. 

Buck tries to release some of the tension he’s holding in his jaw, but he just can’t shake it. He tries to take another bite of seabass, but finds his tongue unreceptive to taste. Which is a real shame, given the quality of the food here. His fork is shaking a little in his hand. 

Fuck. 

---

30 for 🌊:

---

“The bar?” Maddie scoffs. “Evan, it’s a building. I want you to be safe!”

Buck doesn’t answer. He looks wild with indecision and hurt. There are just as volatile storms swirling behind his eyes as the one outside the door. 

My brother… He’s had a lonelier life than is fair for someone as loving as he is. He deserves someone who chooses him.

Eddie hurt him badly. And entirely by accident. This is on Eddie to fix.

“Maddie, can B- can Evan and I talk for a minute?” He asks. “I’ll drive you and Genevieve to the station right after.”

Maddie looks between Buck and Eddie. 

“Evan?” She asks. 

“Yeah. Fine.” Buck grumbles. “Whatever.”

“Okay,” Maddie sighs. She walks off towards the back office and calls out for her daughter. “Genni? Change of plans, baby.”

The moment she’s gone, Eddie launches into another attempt. 

“Please, just choose safety, okay?” Eddie asks. “You can hate me there if you want to.”

---

18 for ⚡️:

---

The kid thing is more complicated. Or, less? Eddie doesn’t know. To be honest, he’s confused. 

See, he thinks he wants one after all. One. Not like an armada of them. Buck seemed comfortable with any number, zero or upwards, so he thinks this boundary will be fine. He also thinks that before he asks Buck to marry him, he should probably tell him this tiny detail. It’s sort of relevant. However, he also doesn’t want it to seem like marrying Buck is contingent on his reaction to this. Or that he only wants the kid to marry Buck. So he has to plan both individual conversations in a way that conveys this. 

Conversation. Is that the wrong way to think of it? Probably, right? His proposal to Shannon had been more or less of a steam roll. Telling her how they would navigate the future.

---

18 for 🚨:

THE FOLLOWING IS NSFW AND SPOILERY

---

He’s in a vacuum of pure, unblemished bliss. Naked, wrapped in Eddie and duvet, and still feeling light and fuzzy from multiple orgasms the night before. What a world. 

The best part is, Buck is fairly certain this was not intended to be a one time affair. He’s fairly certain he’s been given something good - something great - that he gets to keep. At least, for as long as Eddie will allow him. And Eddie doesn’t seem like he’s in a rush to let go. 

In fact, he’s tucked into Buck, pressing slow, soft kisses to Buck’s chest. His hand is sliding lower down Buck’s body, rousing him in more ways than one. Eddie is very handsy, it turns out. No slouch with his mouth, either. 

Again, what a world.

“Goodmorning,” Buck mumbles, as Eddie’s hand finds exactly where Buck’s body would most like it to be. 

“Goodmorning,” Eddie whispers into Buck’s collarbone. His grip tightens, and Buck’s hips jut a little. 

“You’re really something,” Buck rasps. 

“Should I stop?”

“God no.”

---

18 for 🩸:

---

“You lied to the police,” Eddie echoes.

Buck nods. “Gave them an account of things that threw them off the trail of what really happened. Made it seem like they were looking for your body, not…”

“Not a killer,” Eddie whispers.

“You didn’t kill me.” Buck reminds him.

“I killed Captain Gerrard,” Eddie admits. 

Sophia inhales sharply through her teeth.

Buck doesn’t twitch. 

“Well, that doesn’t need to leave this kitchen table, right?”

“Right,” Sophia agrees. “In fact, I hear he was more or less a total cunt.”

Eddie’s eyes widen. “You say Hail Marys with that mouth?”

“Been a long time since I went to mass, Eddie.”

“Point is, you’re a mystery,” Buck says. “People all have their theories."

---

6 for 🔮:

---

Bobby’s head starts to rush. It sort of comes out of nowhere. At first, he thinks it’s some sort of panic attack. Wouldn’t be surprising, given what’s happened. 

He drops his elbows onto the table and rests his head in his hands. He thinks he can just ride it out, focus on his breathing.

---

3 for 📚:

---

Ravi thinks of the sheer ferocity with which Eddie loves his son. Never allows anyone to doubt him or think less of him. Of course Anil trying to weaponize a disorder against Ravi would piss him off.

[incangencence]

OKAY, sending another for Gene. What are her likes/dislikes? Anything goes!

“Fast dancing, slow kisses, and expensive living,” she laughed. Then blinked sweetly, flashing a coy smile full of false innocence. “Why? Who’s asking?”

She shook her head, smiling to herself, and was quiet for a moment.

“… I like sweets. Chocolate especially, but anything sweet. Life’s sour enough as it is. I like being warm? Can’t stand the cold, or the rain. I hate being made a fool of. The taste of vodka or tequila. Can’t stand it when people call me-… Genny. … I like purple. I love that feeling when something just… CLICKS. When you’ve been working so hard, and not getting it, and then all of a sudden… you do. I like window seats, and long travel… I’m… learning to appreciate the stars. Never been much for taking the time to wonder about things but… Wonder. Starting to love that feeling.”

She fell silent again, avoiding their gaze, then, almost shyly, “… more than anything, I-… I like knowing someone’s been thinking of me. In some small way.”

[silverskull]

hey can you do a future fic where Angela speaks at Tim’s wedding as his “best women” and the speech be emotional as fuckkkkk

This prompt was just too enthusiastic to pass up. Thank you, Nonnie. I know you sent this on the FIRST OF JANUARY, but better late than never… eh? It took a little gear grinding, but I eventually got back into the writing flow!

Full fic below the cut, or HERE on AO3 (kudos, comments and reblogs loved and adored! 💖)

“I don’t give a damn.”

“You give so many damns they’re visible from space.”

Tim rolled his eyes at Angela, working hard not to choke on his mouthful of coffee at the same time. She might be right, but it would never do to let her actually know that she was. He set his mug down on his office desk, studiously ignoring her, and shuffling through the manila folders in his inbox instead.

“Are you inviting Talia?”

“She’s on the list.”

“Good. Then she’ll get this.”

Angela chewed the end of her pen thoughtfully, staring at the writing in the incongruously pink notebook in her other hand. She seemed to come to some sort of conclusion, nodding firmly, before scribbling rapidly on the next blank page. She’d made herself perfectly at home in Tim’s office, slouched in the chair opposite his desk, one leg slung lazily over the armrest, and there didn’t seem to be any way for him to remove her without physically ejecting the entire chair from the room.

It was his own fault, really.

He could have chosen anyone - Thorsen would have done whatever he asked, and, given his history, probably funded the entire endeavour just for the privilege. Genny was an obvious option, or even one of his nephews - the role would have been ceremonial, and Tim could still have control over everything. Lucy had actually suggested Grey, who would have been perfect… if only Tim hadn’t already asked Angela.

And now she had inserted herself into what seemed like his every waking moment, alternatively referring to herself as his ‘Best Woman’, ‘Groom's Girl’, ‘Chief Chick’, or, with what was becoming frightening regularity, ‘Maid of Awesomeness’.

“I’m definitely running with the ‘hot pants’ joke,” Angela concluded aloud, ticking a section of the page with visible satisfaction.

Tim fixed his eyes on his computer screen, scrolling blindly through the afternoon’s unread emails.

“Do whatever you want. I’ve told you: I don’t give a damn.”

“Oh but you will,” Angela drawled, glancing up at him from the corner of her eye. “You. Will.”

***

“...and he says ‘hot pants?’, right? Like a question! Like he didn’t just completely ignore the paragraphs about it in the group chat a few months earlier! The full-on emoji text chains! The links to several unquestionable websites! So, the bachelorette squad comes as a complete shock to him when he rolls up to us in the shop at two am!”

Angela had the crowd practically crying with laughter, and Tim could see Noah and June lurching with mirth in their chairs, slapping the table, the crystal champagne glasses on the surface ringing with the vibration. Under their own table, he slipped his hand around Lucy’s waist, settling his fingers against the lace dress covering her upper thighs. He pressed his nose against her neck, burying his embarrassment in the curls of her hair, and she raised her hand to his cheek, holding him close as her giggles bubbled low in her throat, tingling against the skin on his lips.

“Ignore her,” she whispered.

“Absolutely not,” he replied, pinching her thigh mischievously and raising his lips to her ear. “She’s right. I missed a lot. In fact, I think I’m going to need a thorough revision course. And, you’ll remember, I learn best by doing.”

Lucy snorted, her cheeks turning an alluring shade of pink, and she slapped him on the chest, shoving him firmly away from her. He moved with her, rolling back and smirking, then sliding his hand up to her neck. Her smiling lips were too good to resist, and he drew her towards him for a quick kiss, resting his nose against hers and letting her eyes blur into warm, brown pools before him.

“And as sickeningly lovey-dovey as they are today, you might be surprised to learn that it wasn’t always this way…” Angela tapped her notecards pointedly on the mic stand and Tim heard Bailey stifle a giggle at the table in front of them. He straightened his jacket with one hand, clearing his throat and turning ever-so-slightly away from Lucy and towards Angela.

Angela narrowed her eyes at him, tossing her hair over one shoulder and turning back to the crowd.

“It was hard to say, at first, which one of them annoyed the other more. Smart money would have been on Tim - the hardass TO with a record number of washouts. The man loves a challenge, and finding flaws in the knowledge of one of the brightest young things to graduate the Academy this decade was like catnip for him. He couldn’t resist tormenting her.”

Tim could see Bailey again, turning to Nolan beside her and raising her eyebrows quizzically. Nolan shook his head and dropped it into his hands, massaging a point on his forehead as if the memory was physically hurting him. Tim grinned.

“But Lucy didn’t just roll over and take it,” Angela continued, interrupting Tim’s hazy memory of Lucy, framed outside the passenger window of their shop and hurrying alongside him while the sun beat mercilessly down on her long, wool sleeves. “Oh no. Lucy Chen gave the betting pool a run for their money. Am I right, Smitty? Not that there’s a betting pool in the office or anything, Sarge…” Angela pursed her lips and frowned in feigned seriousness at Grey, who, like Nolan, now also had his eyes covered. It did nothing to put a halt to Angela’s gallop.

“This woman stole her training officer's wallet - picked his damn pocket in the middle of a brawl, and kept it secret until he realised he couldn’t pay for his dinner. She abandoned him with her beer tab on Plain Clothes Day, detonated powder in his face the night she made P2, and bribed her way into short sleeves by setting him up on a successful date. By the way - hey, Rachel! Long time, no see.” Angela waved airily at a table near the back of the room, while Tim tried, unsuccessfully, to keep a straight face. Lucy had thrown her head back in gales of laughter, one hand pressed to her chest, where his engagement ring glinted and glimmered in the reflected light of the chandeliers.

It drew his eyes to the gold wedding band just below it, freshly polished and perfectly sized. He was reaching for her hand before he even realised what he was doing, stroking his thumb along the smooth metal and drawing her knuckles to his lips. She curled her fingers around his, tipping her head towards him and letting him pull her close.

This - this moment here with her, in front of their friends and family - was worth a thousand of her powder bombs. A million.

He’d pay her back, of course. 

But he’d take as good as he gave - something he hadn’t even realised about himself until he met Lucy. Who’d have thought he could make it to his late thirties, through a troubled childhood, two tours in the Middle East, and a broken marriage, and still have things to learn about himself? So many years spent weaving his tough, protective cocoon, building up the hard-knocks and hard-laughs persona that culminated in TO Bradford, only to find the catalyst for his metamorphosis right there in the passenger’s seat of his shop.

His bride. His wife.

His Lucy.

“But, despite the friction, they settled into an easy rhythm. I saw it, slowly falling into place. Bishop too. Harper had all sorts of blatant and inappropriate questions when she joined the team.” Angela winked at Nyla, who raised her glass in response, a sly grin hidden behind the crystal rim. “And I know he’ll never admit it, but I don’t doubt that Sergeant Grey saw exactly where this was headed long before any of the rest of us. Sir, you’re practically psychic when it comes to teaming people up, and there’s nothing you can do to change my mind.”

Celina was nodding along with Angela’s words, her eyes wide and her mouth tight with reserved laughter. Luna was whispering in her ear, and Grey was trying - and failing - to speed Angela up with a raised finger, circling in the air.

“And we joke. We do. We have good times in our Mid-Wilshire family.” Angela paused as calls of ‘hear hear’ echoed throughout the room and glasses were lifted in an agreeable toast. “But things haven’t always been easy. Not for us. Not for Lucy and Tim. We’ve had our tragedies, and we’ve lost good people along the way. I’d like to direct your attention, and ask you to raise your glasses, to the couple’s ‘In Memoriam’ shrine, and particularly our colleagues… our friends: Captain Zoe Anderson and Officer Jackson West.” 

Quiet murmurs rustled through the crowd as people twisted in their seats to look for the little table Lucy had insisted on setting up near the front of the room. Small flickering tealights and loose white petals artfully surrounded framed pictures of their friends, and it felt, for a moment, as if the ceiling lights above them dimmed and the happy faces of Jackson, Captain Andersen and the others beamed brighter, smiling their approval through the insubstantially thin veil that separated them.

Lucy turned to Tim then, dipping her head against his shoulder and dropping his hand to swipe her own fingers across her cheek. He caught the momentary sheen of tears below her lashes, and he wrapped his arm tightly around her waist, pulling her closer to him and into the space below his shoulder where she fit just-so. He felt her hand stretch up along his back, latching onto his neck for support, and he raised his lips to her forehead, dropping a comforting kiss onto the crown of her head.

“I can tell you - if either of them were with us today, I wouldn’t be up here entertaining you all by myself. Both Jackson and Captain Andersen would have had plenty to say about this particular turn of events.” Angela smirked at Tim again, and he heard Lucy give a constricted laugh from her perch at his shoulder.

“But that’s not to say that it was entirely unexpected. These two have been through their fair share - more than fair, even - of troubles. Neither of you-” she turned to wave her notecards at both Lucy and Tim “-have seen the other when one of you is missing. And it’s a testament to your flair for thrill-seeking that this has happened more than once.”

“Bad-Luck magnets!” Smitty yelled, from the back of the hall.

Angela allowed a brief chuckle to pass through the crowd before she became solemn again.

“But seriously. You’ve come through the worst things life could throw at you - anyone’s worst fears - and you’ve come out stronger for it. We’ve all witnessed it. Tim, I know you would move heaven and earth for Lucy; and hell would freeze over before Lucy would leave Tim behind. It’s inspirational. It’s powerful. And it’s a little scary, not gonna lie.”

Tim allowed himself a quick laugh, tightening his grip around Lucy’s waist, and imagining the sparkle of her moonstone ring on the fingers gently combing through the hairs on the back of his head. She leaned closer to him, her cheek resting just above the collar of his dress shirt, and he pushed away the thoughts, dark and intrusive, of what his life would be like if he hadn’t found that ring. If she hadn’t thought to drop it for him. If the trust between them wasn’t so strong, so unshakeable, that it kept her believing he’d come for her, even as her own breath slowly started to poison her and the sun sank low over the endless, barren desert, leaving him chasing the shadows of his own fear.

A cold shiver ran down his spine, and Lucy, ever observant, sat up, tilting her head to catch his eye with a quizzical brow. He gave a small shake of the head, raising his hand from her waist to her neck, and he brushed his lips against her forehead again, steadying himself with her warmth, her fragrance, and her proximity.

She was here. She was here. She was here, and she was safe and they were surrounded by support and love, and that was all that mattered.

Lucy settled back against his side as Angela continued, and Tim let his hand drift along the cool skin of her arm and down into its home on the curve of her hip.

“All of which brings us neatly back to Hot Pants here, and her lovely husband, Handsy.”

The crowd erupted into laughter, partly at Angela’s nonchalant delivery, partly in relief at being back from the brink of horrors past. Tim reached for his glass and took a fortifying sip of his champagne, as Lucy, amused, tapped her thumb at the base of his neck.

“You know, for all I said earlier about the inevitability of this whole relationship, I think there are a couple of people that deserve the real credit for finally propelling these two numbskulls into action. Raise a glass with me, if you will, for Jake Butler, RIP, and Sava Wu, MIA.”

A split in the crowd quickly became apparent, with the Mid-Wilshire gang laughing and toasting energetically, while their friends from outside the station clinked glasses in confusion, with puzzled looks and whispered questions.

“It’s a shame LA CLEAR shut down the airing of that documentary for operational security reasons,” Angela continued “But for those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, suffice it to say that these two dummies had to go undercover together -  to Las Vegas, of all places - and they thought a solid method of preparation was to get together and practise. kissing.”

Uproarious laughter filled the room, and, at her table, Tamara dropped her head onto her hands, her eyes squeezed shut and her shoulders shaking with laughter. Tim could feel his cheeks grow red again, and he turned to Lucy, who was also giggling, one elbow resting on his shoulder, with the back of her hand covering her mouth. She glanced at him, her eyes sparkling beneath her dark lashes, and he suddenly found that he didn’t care what anyone else thought. This whole room could yuck it up together at his expense, but he was the only one who Lucy looked at like that. The only one who got to kiss her lips, and cradle her hips and inhale the scent of the skin in the well of her collarbones.

The only one who got to wear her ring.

“None of us were ever privy to exactly what went on after that. There was a little bit of separation, some partner reshuffling, and a lot of stupidly longing glances across the bullpen - yes, we all saw you,” Angela addressed this last part directly to Tim and Lucy, rolling her eyes before turning back to the mic. “But somehow or other, before we knew it, we were all conniving to bump Tim out of Lucy’s chain of command, and the two of them started arriving to work, more often than not, in the same vehicle.”

Angela paused to take a drink from her champagne flute, and the crowd waited patiently, eager to hear what secrets she’d spill next. Tim felt Lucy’s foot stroke the back of his calf, hidden from sight beneath the draped folds of the tablecloth, and he cleared his throat and tried, heroically, to focus his attention back on Angela.

“And somehow, all of that has led us here, today. To this room and this celebration. It’s been a long road, with plenty of obstacles, and I don’t doubt that you two will have more to come. All I can wish for you is this: May the road rise to meet you, and the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. May the rain fall softly on the field of your love, and until we meet again-” Angela turned to lift her glass to the crowd, who, by some unspoken agreement, had decided to rise to their feet and raise their glasses in response. “May you be safe. May you be cherished. And may you always be this loved. To Tim and Lucy!”

The crowd repeated Angela’s toast, cheering and clapping for them, and Tim felt the uncanny sensation that his heart was about to burst out of his chest. His breath was tight, his eyes unexpectedly blurry, and it took Lucy’s hand on his jaw, physically turning him towards her, to snap him out of it.

He had a brief glimpse of her face, beaming with happiness, her eyes locked on his, before she pulled him down for a kiss. Their lips met, soft and warm and champagne-sweet, and the rush of blood in his ears slowed to match the steady rhythm of the pulse below her skin. He inhaled deeply, vanilla frosting and floral bouquet and Lucy - just Lucy - warm and familiar and ever inviting. He kissed her again, quickly, smiling, then hooked her fingers through his own, guiding her upright and presenting her to their friends with a flourish.

The cheering increased in volume, Thorsen’s sharp wolf-whistle piercing through the applause, and Tim took a moment to nod towards Angela. She winked at him, dropping her notecards into her clutch, and he mouthed a silent ‘thank you’.

He’d made the right choice, with her, after all.

And as Lucy tugged on his hand, turning him towards her for yet another public kiss, he couldn’t help feeling like he’d made the right choice over and over again; finally finding his place in the world. His people. His family. The loving home he’d been searching for ever since he was a small boy.

And here, now, with those same friends and family, and Lucy - his Lucy - he allowed himself to celebrate that home. To let his friends cheer as he made his vows and placed his ring and kissed his wife.

His love.

His life.

His forever.