#buck gave Eddie his heart

[bucksboobs]

Is it too much to ask that Eddie be full on bawling at the BuckTommy Wedding because his best friends are getting married and he can’t think of anyone better for them to be marrying, only for him to deliver the most savage roast of them for his speech at the reception?

[thisismyroadtothethrone]

Do any of y’all got any good Buddie fics that involve the will or everybody finding out about the will or Eddie and Buck talking about what it means or Eddie’s parents finding out or any of that because I just watched THE episode and I am losing it I mean everything about that episode and that scene was absolutely insane

[tommygotwrittenoff]

i need season 10 buddie wedding so buck can go full bridezilla and drive everyone insane but eddie is just like 🥰🥰🥰

[pinkponydiaz]

there’s something so special to me about eddie diaz being freak4freak for buck buckley except for curses. he’ll wear a couples costume, he’ll run from bees covered in perfume, he doesn’t even know he matches bucks freak with the well, buck was out there wailing and digging at the ground with his bare hands and the rest of the team acted like he was a spouse who’s partner is missing presumed, and eddie devoted diaz doesn’t even know this but he still gives buck his entire soul in response, he gives buck chris LEGALLY if he can’t be there because if he can’t be there with chris and buck personally then he’s gonna make damn sure they have each other. and he didn’t even know how badly buck broke down!! that’s what makes me crazy. they’re so down bad for each other and I think eddie knows it but doesn’t think about it. the sky is blue, grass is green, buck buckley is the other half of eddie diaz. buck doesn’t know eddie gave him chris and when eddie gets shot he IMMEDIATELY does exactly what eddie knows he will, which is take care of chris even though obviously buck buckley needs to be at eddies side, but he can’t because their kid comes first. eddie drags ana along for ages until buck tells him he’s felt like that before, bucks suffering is the only thing that makes eddie wise up and be honest with that poor woman. buck dies and eddie restarts his heart, brings him chris and then doesn’t look at him because if he looks at him it’s real, and then everyone babys buck and eddie backs off because he KNOWS he’ll come to eddie when he’s ready. they know each other to the core but they’re also so stupid they don’t realize what they’re doing. eddie makes a new friend, buck spirals and then kisses the new friend and then decides that’s why buck was crazy, and then buck comes out and eddie spirals so bad, and through all of this shit they’re there, side by side, never wavering (except for the funniest divorced dads fight to ever grace the frozen aisle at howies) because they’re freaks about each other in every way. except for curses. that’s eddies line. and that’s the funniest part. they’re not normal, they’ve never been normal and they never will be, but also them only really being polar opposites about one thing and it’s curses makes me giggle but also makes me want them both to bone.

[vibraniumavenger]

Collision

TW/CW: Car accident, injuries.

Pairing: Evan Buckley x Diaz!Reader

You smiled to yourself as you walked beside Christopher, your nephew. You had watched him in the morning while your brother was working, and Carla was attending an appointment. You didn’t mind though, you absolutely adored him, and he enjoyed spending time with you. 

You had an hour to kill before dropping him off to Carla, and heading off to work yourself, so you decided to swing by the station to have lunch with the team. It was quiet when you arrived, indicating the team were on a call. You took it upon yourself to make lunch for everybody, knowing it would be a relief to them when they got back. Chris was sat at the table on his tablet, in a world of his own, allowing you to focus on the food. You couldn’t help but smile to yourself as the sound of the shutters opening filled the station followed by heavy boots thudding against the floor as each firefighter jumped out of the truck. The footsteps got closer, the faint smell of smoke mixed with a familiar aftershave filled your nostrils and you instinctively lean back into the body that is now behind you as arms snake around your waist. “Isn’t this a nice surprise?” 

You turn towards the voice, and smile, “Apparently, I can’t seem to stay away.” You lean up to kiss Buck, causing Chris to pull a disgusted face. This seemed to amuse Buck, and he kissed you again. Eddie appeared in the kitchen, and made his way over to his son, visibly happy to see him. “Come on guys, get a room.” You rolled your eyes playfully at your brothers comment, and pulled away from Buck. 

You dished up the food for the team and took a seat, eager to hear about the call they had just been on. You listened intently as you ate, your complete focus on Buck as he spoke passionately about the call. Your heart warmed as you watched his face light up, he loved how much you genuinely enjoyed hearing about the calls, and how his day had gone. Chimney was the next to speak up, “It was a good call, except the part where Buck was playing hero and nearly got himself killed.” Bucks eyes widened and he turned to look at Chimney, giving him a look that immediately stopped him talking. Chimney, trying to help, began speaking again, “Don’t worry, it’s nothing out of the ordinary. It wasn’t any more dangerous than a simple call, the risk is always there. Besides, it was probably one of the safer times Buck tried to save the day, you should’ve seen him on the call last week.” 

“Chim, stop talking.” Buck, who was now visibly on the spot, turned to face you. He studied your face, working out how to approach this. He opened his mouth to reassure you, but you beat him to it, “I thought we spoke about this…” Buck knew you understood that no day was guaranteed, and that saving people on calls was something he would always try to do, even if it put him at risk. He also knew that he had a habit of jumping the gun and putting himself in dangerous situations without thinking it through. “I’m sorry…” 

You checked your watch, and stood up. “I just wish you’d be more careful, Buck.” Chris stood up and hugged Eddie goodbye, and you did the same. “Later bro.” You said goodbye to the team and walked back to the car with Chris by your side. The breeze hit you, and you took a deep breath. Maybe you were overreacting, maybe not but you just needed a moment. You helped Chris into the car and got in yourself, turning on the radio. The short ride to Carlas mostly consisted of Chris laughing as you sang along to the music, and the occasional conversation when Chris wasn’t overly engrossed in his phone. Carla was there to greet you when you pulled up on her drive, Chris was extremely excited and practically jumped out of the car to hug her. Carla gave you a hug, “Y/N, it’s so good to see you!” You smiled and hugged back, “It’s been a while, huh? Life has been hectic.” Carla laughs at this, “You’re telling me, your brother told me all about you and Buck. Moving in together? That’s a big step!” 

“We were practically living together anyway, and if I’m being honest, Eddie is probably just relieved to have his couch back. I was starting to get on his nerves.” You explained to Carla, and she chuckled. “Well, I wish you all the best. I’m gonna get Chris inside, and I’ll let you run off to work. It was lovely seeing you.” You hug Chris goodbye and bid farewell to Carla before getting into your car and beginning your journey to your place of work. In front of you, the amber light turned to red and you stopped. You could see that traffic was beginning to build up on the other side of the junction, and you didn’t want to be late. You sighed, and made the decision to take an alternate route, so when the light turned green, you indicated and pulled out to begin taking your turning. You let out a sudden gasp before you could even properly register the car coming towards you. All you could do was attempt to brace for the impact, and so you did. 

A loud crunching sound surrounded you, followed by the feeling of being thrown as your car was barrelled into. You closed your eyes tightly, scared of what was next. You didn’t have the courage to open them again until the car steadied. The first thing you could see was the airbag in front of you, despite not feeling it deploy moments before. You could smell the burning of the tyres, outside of the car, you could hear the panicked voices of bystanders, but all you could focus on was the blood that was now spread across your arms, unsure of where it was actually coming from. You weren’t in pain, at least you couldn’t feel any in that moment. Is that what shock feels like? You couldn’t think, but your eyes got heavy and you fought your hardest not to succumb to the darkness. 

Back at the station, the call was only just coming in. The alarm blared throughout the station, alerting the team to the call. They were quick to jump into action, grabbing their gear and piling themselves into their assigned trucks. Eddie and Buck sat beside each other, speaking casually between themselves about what had happened earlier. “Just give her some time, she’ll come around. For her, two of the people she loves most are at risk everyday, you’ve gotta imagine it can’t be easy. It’s a risky job as it is, and when you put yourself into riskier situations without needing to, it decreases the chance of making it home at the end. She’s scared. Just talk to her.” Eddie attempted to reassure Buck, who was feeling terrible. He couldn’t shake the image of your face from his mind, the face that showed disappointment in his actions. Before Buck could respond, the truck halted and the team jumped out, ready to give help where needed. Buck stopped in his tracks as an all too familiar car was crushed before him. He tried not to panic, hoping that his suspicions were wrong. His eyes flicked to the number plate and his heart stopped. His feet were moving before his mind could catch up. He shouted your name, drawing Eddies attention. It took Eddie a few seconds to process what was happening. You had not long left the station, it couldn’t possibly be you. Right?

Buck arrived to your car first, nausea washed over him as he caught sight of your injured body. “Y/N? Hey, it’s me. I’m here.” You weren’t completely aware of what was happening, your eyes opened with a struggle. Your movements were weak as you turned your head to look at him. “Buck?” You spoke quietly, not completely aware of the situation at hand. “Don’t move, try and keep still.” He tried to remain as calm as he could, he didn’t want to scare you any more, he was terrified himself. Eddie ran right over to the car, his heart racing as he feared what he would find. His first instinct was to check the back seat, relief finally washing over him as he saw no sign of Christopher. Still, he needed to make sure, “Y/N, was Chris in the car?” 

You shook your head, “Carlas.” Eddie felt a weight off his shoulders, knowing his son was safe. The weight soon came back when he saw the condition you were in. Your eyes rolled back, and you fell into unconsciousness. Bobby was running the scene, assigning Hen and Chim to medically assist you, and he grabbed the gear to support Buck and Eddie in freeing you from the car. Buck didn’t want to let go of your hand, but he knew he had to in order to get you out sooner. The team worked tirelessly, ensuring to be as careful as possible. Bobby handed the halligan to Buck, “Buck, you focus on getting the doors open. Diaz, grab the saw and be on standby.” 

Buck groaned as he tried to pry the doors open, with no results, “Roofs too dented Cap, I can’t get it open.” Bobby nodded, and turned to Eddie, “Saws it is. Get in there Diaz, Buck, you too.” The roof was off in no time, Hen and Chim jumped straight in and equipped you with a neck brace, and got the back board in place to move you. Hen checked your vitals quickly, trying to make sure you were steady enough to be moved. “I’ve got a faint pulse, we gotta move.” They moved you out of you car quickly, and transferred you to the ambulance. “Trauma to the abdomen, possible internal bleeding. I’ll let the hospital know we’re en route.” Buck jumps into the back of the ambulance with Chimney, and instantly takes your hand in his. Hen places herself into the drivers seat, putting the ambulance into 911 mode and begins the journey as fast as she can to the nearest hospital. 

Buck hated seeing you like this. He was filled with anxiety, the nausea constantly there as he studied your visible injuries. His heart sank with every second that went by, the more he thought about you laying there almost lifeless, expecting you to flatline any second now. “I’m sorry baby, we can’t leave things like this. I need you to get through this so I can apologise to you. I know I’m not the easiest person to love, and I also know that I’m the biggest pain in the ass, but I love you, and I need you. Please.” Buck sobbed as he held your hand tighter. Time seemed to be going extremely slow for Buck, yet moments later Hen was pulling up at the hospital. You were rushed in, Hen spewed all your information to the nurses as you were wheeled in and handed over. Buck, Hen and Chimney stood there as you were wheeled out of sight. One of the nurses stopped Buck from running after you, and he sat defeated in the waiting room. The rest of the team arrived soon after, Eddies face was similar to Bucks. Eddie spoke first, “Any update?” The lack of response from Buck had him on edge, fearing the worst. Luckily, Chimney filled the silence. “There’s no update, but no news it almost always good news.” 

Eddie placed his hand on Bucks shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze before sitting down next to him. “How’re you holding up?” Buck didn’t look up, instead he kept his head in his hands. He couldn’t respond, he couldn’t trust his voice not to give out. His leg bounced anxiously, and despite not talking, his feelings were painfully obvious. Eddie could empathise, he knew exactly what was going through Bucks mind. It was happening to him too, but he concealed it as much as he could, knowing Buck needed him. “You know, each time we’re sat in these chairs, it never gets easier. You don’t have to talk, I get it. I think you should know that I’m right here for you, I understand. Y/N is going to be okay, that I have no doubt about. She’s my sister, and us Diaz’s, we don’t back down. We fight.” Eddie continues talking, and he’s not sure whether he’s trying to convince Buck or himself. 

A few hours go by, and the team are waiting as patiently as they can for an update. Maddie had arrived some time ago, and was sat with Buck. She was not only there to support her brother, but also her brothers girlfriend, who Maddie had claimed as her best friend shortly after meeting her. Bobby hands a coffee to Buck and Eddie, who hadn’t moved from their seats since arriving. This changed moments later as a nurse approached, making them stand. Buck felt as if his legs were going to give way any second. The nurse cleared her throat, “She’s stable. She’s incredibly lucky to have made it out with the injuries she did, it could’ve been a lot worse. She’s awake, if you’d like to go see her.” 

Buck didn’t stick around to hear whatever else the nurse had to say, he darted through the corridor until he got to your room. He stopped to take a deep breath, and stepped inside. He was scared to look at you, all he could picture was you covered in blood still. His head shot up as he heard a voice, your voice to be exact, “Buck?” 

He was by your bedside in a blink of an eye, taking your hand in his. His eyes wandered over your body, taking in each of your injuries. His heart broke a little more with each one. He finally looked you in the eyes, and that’s when it hit him. His eyes filled up with tears, “Y/N…”

“Hey, don’t cry. I’m fine, see. I’m right here.” You gave his hand a squeeze, trying to give him the reassurance he needed. Buck took a seat close to your bed, your hand in his and against his lips. You move your hand up to his cheek and wipe his tears, Buck practically melted into your touch. “I really thought I had lost you.” 

“I’m right here, I’m not going anywhere. I need to apologise for my reaction earlier, that could’ve been our last conversation earlier and left without saying goodbye, or telling you how much I love you.” 

Buck shook his head, “You have nothing to apologise for, I’m the one that owes you an apology. I’m sorry that I’m not more careful when I’m out on a call, I shouldn’t be that reckless. I’m sorry that I can’t promise to walk through that door every night, safe and unscathed. I can appreciate how you feel now, and I promise I’ll try my hardest to be more careful. I love you, and I don’t want you ever feeling anything close to what I’ve felt today.” You wince as you sit up, making Buck panic. You push through the pain, and pull Buck to you. “Come here.” He stands from his chair and leans down to kiss you quickly. He carefully moves your hair from your face, ensuring he doesn’t touch any of your cuts or bruises. 

“I love you too, and even though I’m petrified that you won’t make it home one day, I trust that you’ll try everything in your power to make sure you do. I’m proud of you, Evan.” As you spoke, Buck smiled to himself. A sense of relief washed over him. Before he could respond, you continued. “So… does this mean I can finally get a new car now?” 

Buck chuckled, “You’re a pain in the ass, Diaz.” 

“Takes one to know one, Buck.”

A/N: So, I think I rewrote this like 10 times. Its been a while since I've done any writing, so please bare with me while I figure out my writing style again. Any criticism is welcome, I appreciate the feedback.

[rosyhoneydew]

A quick love letter to my Bucktommy family in the form of a fix-it <3

Bucktommy | fix-it | Teen | 1141 words | warnings: this is angsty at the start and tiptoes toward addressing biphobia so please care for yourself and don't read if that will exacerbate your hurt.

They're three beers deep when the doorbell rings again.

It's been a fucking night. He hadn't really had much to say to Eddie when he got there, thankfully he hadn't had to, especially considering Eddie was clearly in the midst of his own kind of night. It feels better, not being alone, at least. But the alcohol mixes with his head and twists the moment in his apartment further. How come every time I want to move forward I get pushed back?

He's not even paying attention when Eddie goes up to get the door, just fiddles with the bottle in his hand more, peeling the label into tiny pieces and laying them on Eddie's coffee table for him to pick up later.

"Shit-" Eddie stumbles as he makes his way. And then Buck can feel a little breeze as he goes to tell whoever it is that this isn't a good time.

"Oh thank god-" Buck freezes, determined not to turn around. "I wasn't sure you'd be home but I think I fucked up."

That's Tommy.

"I panicked a little. Evan asked me to move in and I think I freaked out."

"Uhh-" Eddie adds.

"We just got done talking about my ex who I had to end an engagement with and it just- it felt like he was trying to make up for his own freak out about it and-" Buck hears him take a deep breath, "I didn't want to force him into doing something he didn't really want to do, you know? He- he should get to make sure that's what he really wants." He takes another breath. "Are you not wearing pants?"

"Umm-"

Buck's heart rate had steadily ramped up hearing Tommy speak, but it's when he stops that Buck feels tears prickle at his eyes. He whips around then, still nestled into Eddie's couch, betrayal in his voice when he speaks.

"I did!" and shit. He didn't really mean to shout that.

"I'm gonna..." Eddie trails off as he heads into his bedroom.

"Why do you think I didn't make sure that's what I wanted?" he demands. He hadn't thought he'd be so angry, but this felt like something to him, and Tommy's running. Again. "Because that girl hit on me at the restaurant?"

Tommy looks shell-shocked. Like he's still grasping the fact that Buck is here, so Buck just keeps talking.

"Or because I haven't dated a man before? So I must not know what I'm talking about, right?"

"Buck-"

"Don't call me that."

"Evan," Tommy steps a little closer, and Buck leans toward the cushions, petty, but feeling raw still. "That is not why."

Buck levels him with a look.

"Okay, what you said is fair enough," he relents. "I didn't mean to make it seem like you couldn't make your own decisions about this."

"What did you mean?"

Tommy looks away for a moment, a flicker of pain on his face.

"I meant... what I said," he lands on. "You would break my heart, Evan."

"You don't know that." The tears finally crest over his lower lids and make their way to his mouth. "You can't just give up every time you're scared that I'm going to leave you, Tommy. It's not fair, you're not even giving me the chance to stay."

Tommy's lip wobbles a little now too, but he stays and listens.

"I wanted to stay, I wanted you to stay. With me. Permanently. Why would you think I would leave you?"

He cries now, and Buck hasn't ever seen him cry.

"I don't know," he gets out, choked and soft. "I see you, sometimes. With the 118 and everyone's families and I... I don't feel like I fit, Evan. I don't get how I fit into that."

"You fit into it because you're my boyfriend. My partner."

"I am?" he asks, treading closer ever slightly to the couch.

This time Buck leans his way. He sets his bottle down and looks down at his hands.

"Did you mean what you told Eddie? You fucked up? Because I fucked up, once, at the beginning of us, and you gave me that second chance and I'm so glad you did, Tommy, because these last few months have been better than I could've hoped. I don't want to let that go because of this so... yeah you can be, if you want."

Tommy rushes to the couch, he sits as close as he can get and grabs Buck's hands firmly. Warm and sure.

"I want that. I want us again. Please."

"You can have it," Buck whispers, resting his head on Tommy's shoulder. He squeezes Tommy's hands. "Just don't leave again, please."

"I won't, I won't."

Then there's a kiss at the crown of his head, and Tommy's other hand rubs soft circles over his back. He murmurs sweet nothings in Buck's ear all the while.

I'm sorry. I'm glad you were here. I missed you as soon as I walked out the door. I'm staying. I'm staying. I'm staying.

They sit like that for a while until a throat clearing from the hallway has them both lifting their heads to find Eddie, fully-clothed.

"What were you guys doing before I got here, by the way?" Tommy asks, humor back in his voice.

"Well, I was drinking my sorrows away. I don't know what Tom Cruise was doing."

"Ha ha," Eddie says, making his way to the couch, no qualms about forcing them to scooch over to make room. "We can talk about my shit tomorrow. You guys worked it out I guess?"

Buck looks up at Tommy, smiles, and kisses him with a loud peck just to make Eddie huff and roll his eyes.

"Yeah," Tommy says, looking at ease. "Although..." he starts.

Buck turns to him, raising an eyebrow.

"I don't know that moving into your place is going to work," Tommy admits.

Buck sits up a little, mouth just opening to speak when Tommy cuts him off.

"I want to live with you, Evan, but your place is barely big enough for one person, so maybe we can workshop location, yeah?" he smiles a crinkly smile, the kind that always lets Buck know he's feeling fond, feeling secure.

It's Buck's turn to huff now. "It gets good light," he grumbles.

Tommy kisses his temple again, Buck gets the distinct feeling that he will be getting kissed quite a bit in the near future, and he chances a quick look at Eddie to see if they're being annoying.

Instead, he sees Eddie smiling too, he's looking on like he's proud and it makes Buck want to tear up again. Eddie gives him a nod and Buck nods back.

A weight lifts off his shoulders then. In the arms of the man he's growing to love and accepted by his family.

~~~~

I want to say a quick thank you to everyone who read, commented, shared my fics, sent me nice messages about my writing for these two, and to everyone who created content for them while they were canon. I'm thankful for every minute of it :)

[wellcollapse]

buddie is canonically romantic. to Me.

eddie was introduced to buck slow-motion style. buck tried to battle his inner bisexual rage for an entire episode but couldn’t stay angry at eddie’s pretty face for longer than twenty minutes — my guy folded the minute eddie extended that first olive branch. buck wistfully watched eddie and the little boy he would come to love as a son through a glass-paneled window not knowing that he’d eventually belong on the other side of that glass door. buck provided the solution to eddie’s very first on-screen struggle and wormed his way into eddie’s heart and home all in the span of one episode. without eddie asking him for any of it. buck called eddie attractive at least three times in season two alone. and then an elf called them gay and buck skipped away after hearing it. eddie gave buck the most precious thing in his life to cheer him up. and buck lost him. but eddie came back to him anyway and then gave him the second most precious thing — something he couldn’t even give his own wife — his trust. they had a lover’s spat in a grocery store. buck was treated like a grieving widow when eddie was buried underground. eddie’s memories of buck and chris were enough to pull him back from death’s cold embrace. eddie nearly bit buck's head off at the train derailment because he couldn’t stand the idea of buck risking his own life for abby. when eddie was shot, he spent the moment he thought would be his very last reaching out for his best friend. buck saved him. of course he did. eddie was planning to stick it out with a woman he knew he could never love and would never love until buck reminded him that he deserved better. buck got pistol-whipped after nearly going off on someone who threatened their eddie's child. eddie left the 118 and buck made out with his replacement. buck was in the room. buck's girlfriend talked to the woman he cheated on her with and buck never once bothered to intervene because he was too busy spending time with eddie. buck helped eddie patch up the holes in his wall. buck spent an entire season looking for the right couch to rest on and then passed out within seconds on eddie's couch. the right couch. buck was struck by lightning and eddie's hands brought him back to life. eddie couldn't look at buck while he was in a coma because it reminded him a little too much of losing his wife. but he brought christopher in anyway. of course he did. they went on a date where eddie stared at buck like he wanted to consume him. a little part of eddie died in that cemetery. eddie asked buck to perform Official Coparenting Duties with his son. buck uttered eddie's name eleven times in the episode where he discovered his bisexuality. buck was left at the curb on his first date with a man and his first priority was still the fact that he lied to his best friend. both of them actively looked like they wanted to die at the idea of nothing changing between them. eddie suggested matching couple's costumes. they sang what i like about you. buck ripped off eddie's shirt. eddie poured beer in his mouth. buck was the one to pull eddie out of the world that he tried to imagine with kim. their final scene of the season was the two of them. alone. together.

...who the hell is that? you can have my back any day. there's nobody in this world i trust with my son more than you. are you hurt? three minutes and seventeen seconds. comes in handy when you have a bunch of holes in your walls. you don’t have to tell me how great eddie is, i’ve known that since the first day i worked with him. what you always do. talk to him. you know how much christopher misses you? how could you. you're not around. i forgive you. you didn't end up like you. you act like you're expendable, but you're wrong. you were missed. thank you. for not giving up. he got the help he needed and that started with you. two cut lines. you don't have to be anything for anybody. can't you both be good cops? no. isn't that what we all want in a partner? knowing that they have your back? he’ll love you like we all do. i love you, i love you, i love you.

buck and eddie’s story is already a romance. regardless of their current relationship status in canon, their story is already a love story. and i wouldn't have it any other way.

[kneazle]

Buck sat at the kitchen island with his chin resting on his hand, watching Tommy pour ingredients into a bowl. It's been a week since he finally ended his keto diet and Tommy wanted to bake him a cake– to make up for not getting cake at the medal ceremony back then he said. Buck knew it was really Tommy wanting him try his baking for the first time.

As Tommy began mixing what was in the bowl—and if Buck paid extra attention to the way his arms moved and his hand gripped the spoon that was no ones business but his own—Buck blurted out the question that had been on his mind before Tommy became distracting. "What's five things you like about me?"

Tommy looked at him, eyebrow raised and never pausing his mixing. "Your eyes, smile, personality, the way you store all these facts in your brain, and your big heart."

Buck ducked his head slightly with a blush, a smile across his face. "Okay, what are four things I like?"

"Documentaries, Bobby's barbecues because everyone you love is there, cooking, when we go to the shelter and Lainey let's you go out into the yard to play with all the dogs."

"Three things I look good in?" Buck asked with a grin, leaning forward on his arms now.

"Your turnouts, sweats–" Tommy gave him a cheeky grin and Buck flushed thinking of the first time Tommy saw him in them, "And my arms." He finished with a wink, causing a goofy smile to form on Buck's face. That was his favorite place to be.

"What are two things I do a lot and don't notice?"

"Here can you finish mixing this while I get the pan and oven ready?" Tommy asked, handing him the bowl. Buck didn't hesitate to listen, mixing as he responded. "You use your hands a lot, and you steal the covers every night-"

"No I don't!"

"Oh you do, but it means I just have to cuddle you." Tommy teased, pulling a pan out from one of the cabinets.

Buck grumbled a you should be anyway under his breath making Tommy fondly roll his eyes before continuing. "What's one thing you would change about me?"

"Your last name."

Cake batter flew off the spoon and onto the surface of the island. Buck froze, mouth hanging open staring at Tommy who looked casual smiling at Buck like those three words didn't leave his mouth with no hesitation.

"Wh-" Buck swallowed, "What?"

Tommy slid the bowl away from him and leaned close. "I'm not picky on which way, hyphenate with whichever name first, drop Buckley and be Kinard, doesn't matter to me."

"You- you want to marry me?" Buck said sounding breathless, looking stunned but in wonder at the same time.

Tommy put two fingers under his chin, leaning closer to kiss him. "Evan, I'd fly us to Vegas today and marry you."

"It's- It's only been six months-" Buck's lips lifted into a smile. "But...I'd marry you too."

+Alternate ending or bonus (your choice)

"Is that a ring?!" Chimney said so loudly when he greeted Buck and spotted the ring, that it seemed the whole firehouse was looking.

Buck smiled sheepishly and rubbed the back of his neck, holding his hand out that Hen quickly grabbed to inspect. "Uh yeah...surprise? Tommy and I went to Vegas!"

"Buck!" Hen looked at him in shock, before her face turned into a smile and a laugh bubbled out. "How am I surprised but not at the same time?"

"Oh come on! I was supposed to be your best man!" Eddie scowled, but still leaned in for a hug, a big pat on Buck's back.

"We're going to have an actual ceremony later with everyone, you can be best man then!"

"Maddie is going to be pissed, if she wasn't still working her double shift to cover for Josh I'd tell you to call her immediately!"

"Especially because you're about to burst keeping it a secret already?" Hen looked Chimney over who was bouncing on the heels of his feet, he gave her a 'what do you think?' look but didn't respond.

"Uh actually...Maddie already knows." Buck said slowly, bracing himself just in case.

"What?!"

"She didn't actually have a shift..." He took out his phone, showing them a picture of them both in rented suits, and Maddie in a dress between them beaming with pride.

"Oh that is sneaky! I'm both offended and proud at the same time!" Chimney took out his phone and walked off without another word.

Hen offered a congratulations with a chuckle before following after her best friend who was on the phone arm waving like crazy. Eddie glanced over at Bobby and mumbled a 'we'll talk later' before heading towards the stairs. Buck looked at Bobby who hadn't said a word, anxiety growing.

"Bobby I-"

Buck cut off as Bobby pulled him into a hug. He sighed out in relief and returned the hug, Bobby squeezing him a little tighter before pulling away. "I'm proud of you kid, you've come a long way."

"I- I kind of expected someone to make a comment on how early it is for us-"

Bobby laughed. "Athena and I waited less time than you two did, I have no right to judge you on that." His gaze softened. "And anyone paying attention could see that what you two have is real, you're different with him in a way you've never been before Buck, and while I didn't see Tommy for years I can tell you've changed him for the better. Congratulations kid, but now you have some paperwork to take care of."

Buck groaned, shoulders slumping as he followed a laughing Bobby to his office.

But even that didn't stop the wide grin on his face when he wrote Kinard on the paperwork.

[cjlouwho]

Can you please do a hurt/comfort Eddie + Tommy friendship with Bucktommy - Tommy gets hurt in some way (mentally/physically/sick/etc) and Eddie helps him until Buck can get there

you gave me a reason to finish the fic I started earlier today! thank you!

His teeth were chattering. Had been since he woke up after hitting the ground.

He didn't hurt anywhere, which was never a good sign.

He laid there, surrounded by trees. Cold, wet leaves underneath his body. He could hear crickets and frogs all around him. Could smell smoke somewhere nearby.

There were distinct sounds of metal creaking mixed in with nature.

Slowly, he moved his head to the right, then to the left.

Fire.

It was about fifty yards away. Thankfully, due to the recent rain, the fire was contained to the helicopter that had so gracefully fallen out of the sky.

He wasn't sure how he ended up so far from it. Had no memory of being ejected or jumping or whatever happened that made it so he wasn't inside those flames.

He lifted his hands to his face, could barely see them as the sun set below the trees. He was sure there was blood. Dirt, mud, leaves, and blood.

They shook so fiercely he wasn't sure how he had any control over them at all.

His breathing was labored, heart beating rapidly. No matter what he tried, he couldn't seem to calm himself down.

Suddenly, in the distance, he heard something.

People talking.

Not just people, familiar people.

Family.

“H- Here,” he barely managed to get out, figuring they'd be running toward the fire instead of him. He cleared his throat, tried again. “Here! I'm here!”

The talking stopped, then there was running.

He could feel the pounding of the footsteps as they approached.

“Hey, we gotcha, Buddy!”

“Howie?”

“Yeah, it's me. Saving your ass, once again.”

Hands were on him now. Lights shining in his eyes, causing him to squint. He could hear others talking. Hen, Eddie, Bobby. Couldn't quite make out what they were saying.

Chimney had him focus on him. “Can you tell me your name?” he asked.

“T- Tommy,” he answered. God, he wished he could stop shaking. He couldn't barely get out a word.

“Year?”

“2024.”

“Best paramedic you know?”

“Hen,” Tommy replied, choking out a laugh.

“Hey now!” Chimney exclaimed, mocking offense.

“I knew I liked you,” Hen said with a smile. She patted him on the shoulder before getting back to work.

Chimney chomped on his gum a couple times before asking his next question. “Can you wiggle your toes for me, Tommy?”

Tommy shook his head. He lifted his arm, tried to pull Chimney closer to him so he could whisper. “I c- can't feel anything,” he paused, sucked in a shaky breath, “b- below my waist.” He knew what this meant, and he also knew he was in shock. The adrenaline pumping through him was the only thing keeping him remotely alert.

Chimney nodded, sharing a glance with Hen. “Cervical collar for our dashing pilot here, please, Hen.”

“Already on it.”

“Ho- Howie?”

“Yeah, Buddy?”

“Ev- Evan?”

“Buck went home early today,” Eddie answered, moving into Chimney's place so he could do whatever work needed to be done. “Chief is cracking down on overtime, so he had to be sent home.”

“We've... We've been sa- saving f- for the wedding,” he explained, although he wasn't sure why. Everyone there already knew that.

Eddie took Tommy's hand and wrapped it up in his own. “You were probably already up in the air when Buck sent you the text complaining about being sent home.”

“He'd say... He'd say th- the chief didn't want us t- to have the good hors d'oeuvres.”

Eddie nodded, tried putting on a smile. “He did mention that on his way out.”

Tommy squeezed Eddie's hand. “We m- might have to re... reschedule.” His lip trembled at the thought, tears welling in his eyes. Evan was so excited for the wedding. Had been working diligently and meticulously on every detail since they got engaged in October. He wanted a winter wedding, and didn't want to wait another whole year, so February it would be. With it being December now, Tommy didn't see any way he'd be able to fully recover by then.

If he did at all.

“Let's not worry about that right now, alright, Man? I don't think Buck will care when the wedding is, as long as there is one. Let's focus on that, okay?”

Tommy nodded. Blinked a few times to rid himself of the tears.

A few fell anyway.

“Ed- Eddie?”

“Yeah?”

“Do I... Do I still have my legs?”

“You certainly do, Kinard,” Bobby interrupted. Tommy wasn't sure how long the captain had been on his other side. Bobby gave his shoulder a light squeeze. “You've got all your limbs right where they should be. You ready to move now, Kid?”

Tommy could've laughed at the nickname. He'd been called that by Bobby a couple of times, many years ago. It'd been a long while since then.

He nodded. “Ready.”

Eddie didn't let go of his hand as they lifted him and began carrying him to the ambulance. Tommy was a bit surprised. He didn't remember ever being moved onto the spine board. Hadn't felt a thing.

A part of him had wondered if they'd even been working on him during that time. That maybe Eddie was the chosen distraction until he drifted off and his breathing stopped.

He was glad to know he was wrong.

*****

Bobby drove them to the hospital, with Eddie staying in the back beside him. It was a bit cramped with him, Eddie, Chimney, and Hen all back there together, but the fact he was surrounded by these people made him feel a bit more comforted.

Tommy looked over to where his and Eddie's hands were still tightly gripped together. He wasn't sure if Eddie was refusing to let him go, or if he was refusing to let Eddie go. Didn't really matter either way. He needed something to keep him tethered to reality.

He shook his wrist back and forth a few times to get Eddie's attention. “Can you... Can you call Evan? Please?”

“Of course,” Eddie replied, grabbing his phone out of his pocket with his free hand.

“You've got some cuts on your arms, Tommy,” Hen explained as Eddie pressed Buck's name. “We're gonna work on those on the way to the hospital, so you might feel some stings, okay?”

“Yeah. That's okay.”

Eddie put the phone on speaker and Buck answered on the third ring. “What's wrong?”

“Buck-”

“Who is it, Eddie? I just left work an hour ago. Is it Bobby? Hen? Chim?”

Tommy took a deep breath. “B- Baby.”

Silence.

Then.

“Tommy? Is that you?”

“Had a... a little accident.”

“What hospital?”

“The usual,” Eddie replied.

“I'm heading there now.”

“Evan? Evan!” Tommy exclaimed, wanting to get his attention before he got in the car and started to drive.

“I'm here, Tommy,” he answered. “I'm gonna meet you at the hospital.”

“I don't wanna... wanna scare you,” Tommy said, and he could feel the tears burning his eyes again. “I can't. I can't feel my legs.”

“He's stabilized,” Chimney added quickly, before Buck could ask. “Likely a lower spinal cord injury.”

Another pause, followed by a quiet. “Okay. Okay.”

“He's doing well, Buck,” Eddie reassured him. “We're all right here with him. He won't shut up about you, like always.”

Tommy smiled. He hoped Evan did as well.

“Feeling's mutual,” Buck replied. His voice was softer now. Tommy knew the words were meant to keep him focused and thinking positively.

It worked.

“Need you t- to be safe.”

“I will, Baby. I'll drive safe and I'll be at the hospital as soon as I can, okay?”

“Okay. L- Love you.”

“I love you, too. So damn much, T- Tommy.”

Tommy wasn't sure who hung up first, but he could tell by the way Evan's voice wavered at the end that he was probably close to falling apart.

“Thank you,” Tommy said as Eddie put his phone back into his pocket.

“Whatever you need, Bud, I'm here.”

“Just... Just keep ho- holding my hand.”

Eddie nodded, squeezed a little tighter. “I can do that.”

[forwhomthewordsflow]

Puppy Love

modern!eddie munson x fem!reader

18+ ONLY MDNI

warnings: tooth-rotting fluff, a bit suggestive at some parts, language, more fluff

author’s note: this was totally meant to be a small lil blurb but then i ended up getting sucked into it and well…it ended up being a tiny bit longer than i thought.  also, there’s some legal jargon in here that i totally might’ve misused, don’t hate me! i’m not a lawyer i swear! anywho, i’m still pretty new to the whole writing thing so please go easy on me because i’m a crybaby

p.s. i stopped writing it in order to keep the word count from going through the roof, but if you guys would like a part two picking up right where this leaves off then i’m soooo into that, i really love these two!

word count: 5.3k

Let it be known, Eddie Waylon Munson was not a dog person.  This doesn’t mean that Eddie is a cat person either really, he’d actually be more inclined to categorize himself as a fish person, really.  Eddie can hardly take care of himself, who in the hell would think he could take care of another living being?

Steve fucking Harrington.  That’s who.

Under any other circumstances, Eddie would’ve turned him down in a heartbeat when he asked him to watch his Golden Retriever, Captain, for a week while he’s on vacation with his parents. 

“Dude, c’mon.  You owe me one.”

Eddie scoffed.  “Since when do I owe you one?”

“I–There must be something I’ve done for you…” Steve sighs ,”Haven’t I been letting you swim in my pool free of charge?”

“Yeah, me and every single other member of our party.”  Eddie rolls his eyes and crosses his arms, determined to stick to his answer of a hard no.

“Fine,” Steve huffs.  “What if I gave you three hundred bucks for it?”

At this new piece of information, Eddie perked up.  

“Well, well, well Harrington.  Why didn’t you just lead with that?”  The two boys shook hands, and that was that.

Eddie wishes he could’ve said no, but he unfortunately really needed the extra cash.  The weed business had been slow due to the fact that his usual richie-rich-asshole customers are all off “summering” with their rich families wherever it is that the rich families go to do that shit.  

Eddie figured that he could handle this.  Steve assured him that Captain is well trained thanks to the expensive trainers that his parents hired, plus Eddie would get to stay at Hotel de Harrington while he watched the dog.  Eddie will mind his business, Captain will do his own thing, and Eddie would be $300 richer at the end of it all.  Sweet digs and three hundred bucks is just something Eddie doesn’t have the heart to pass up these days.  

–

Eddie always manages to forget just how gi-fucking-normous the Harrington’s mansion house is.  As Steve leads him through the foyer and into the numerous hallways, Eddie figures he must look like he’s stepping into a house for the first time.  His jaw drops a little at the seemingly priceless artwork that hangs from the walls, the crystal vases lined up on shelves, and the expensive looking furniture placed meticulously all around the house.  He hopes to hell that he doesn’t find some way to fuck something up while he’s shacking up here.  

“I can’t believe you live in this art museum, Harrington.”

Steve scoffs.  “Yeah, it’s all nice and fancy until you think about the fact that all the dumb shit decorating this place could probably feed a small village.”

Eddie stifles a laugh, then hears an excited bark from the other room.

“Okay, time to meet the man himself.  Just warning you, he’s a hugger.”  Steve winks at Eddie and jogs to unlock the door to the backyard.  As soon as the glass door slides open, Eddie sees a blur of blonde fur coming towards him, and then all he can see is the ceiling.

Eddie quickly learns that this is because Captain has knocked him right on his ass.

Captain squirms on top of Eddie, trying his hardest to lick him all over his face and neck while Steve is bent over cackling at the whole ordeal. 

“Okay, okay buddy.  Thanks so much,” Eddie says unenthusiastically while glaring at Steve.  He gently shoves Captain off of him and stands back up, only to look down and realize that his all black outfit is now covered in little golden dog hairs.  This only causes Steve to laugh harder.

Steve straightens back up after being hunched over and sighs, “I warned you man,” then walks past Eddie and into the laundry room, clapping him on the shoulder as he goes.

Captain trots happily behind the boys as Steve shows Eddie where Captain’s food and water bowls are, how much to feed him and when, and where his leash and harness are.  Steve assures him that he doesn’t have to take Captain on a walk or anything if he doesn’t feel like it (he so does not), but he does have a grooming appointment scheduled on the day the Harrington’s set off on their vacation.

Eddie huffs at this revelation.

“I know man, I’m sorry.  My mom had apparently scheduled it months ago and forgot it was on the day we were leaving.  But it’s really easy I swear, you just drop him off at noon, and then pick him back up at three.  It’s already paid for and everything.”  Steve looks at Eddie apologetically, and Eddie figures it won’t be that bad.

–

Eddie was wrong.  He’s only been watching the dog for an hour and already he knows he’s not cut out for this shit.  Captain is stuck to Eddie like fucking velcro.  Who knew dogs could be so needy?  Eddie goes to sit on the couch?  Captain needs to sit right next to him.  Eddie needs to go to the kitchen to grab a drink?  Captain is practically stepping on his heels as he trails behind him.  Eddie has been pretty lenient so far, it’s only a week right?  But he’d had enough when Captain was demanding to follow him into the bathroom, pawing at the door and whining when Eddie wouldn’t let him in.  

Thank god for that goddamn grooming appointment.

Despite being only a couple hours into this gig, Eddie needed some alone time.  

Captain seemed just as excited to get out of the house when Eddie fought to put his harness on him.  He never thought he’d ever be spending a full ten minutes practically wrestling with a 70 pound dog, but Captain just wouldn’t sit still.  After all was said and done, Captain sat and waited next to the front door calmly, while Eddie emerged sweaty and breathing heavily.

–

The grooming salon ended up being only ten minutes away from Steve’s house, which Eddie was thankful for since Captain decided to sit shotgun and stare at Eddie the entire way over.  On the outside, the place looked fancy.  Eddie scoffed a bit at the Grecian columns bracketing the entrance, and the name of the salon printed in gold swoopy letters across the large window panes in the front.  He couldn’t believe people were willing to shell out enough cash to bring their dogs to a place like this all for a haircut.  Eddie looks over at Captain, who is of course staring at him…still, and sighs.

“Here goes nothing I guess.”

Eddie wrangles Captain out of his van and into the salon, hoping to God that these people wouldn’t be able to smell the poor on him.  

What actually occurred was quite the opposite.

Upon opening the glass doors, Eddie was hit with a whoosh of cool air and a small bell chimed to let the employees know that someone had walked in.  Captain was apparently very excited by the gust of air, and decided to jump in circles around and through Eddie’s legs.  While Eddie was caught up in detangling himself so he doesn’t fall flat on his face, he hadn’t noticed you walking up to them.  

“Hi there, need some help?” 

Eddie looked up and could’ve sworn he heard a choir of angels singing.

You stood there smiling at him, the prettiest girl Eddie had ever seen in his 24 years of life on Earth.  He doesn’t think he’d ever had someone smile at him like that before, but he knows he could definitely get used to it. 

While you were waiting for Eddie to respond, you noticed that his dog’s leash was still quite tangled around his legs.  Deciding to take things into your own hands, you take a few steps back and kneel down to the ground to call the dog to you.  He comes bounding up to you, causing his leash to slide smoothly out from under Eddie’s legs, rendering him untangled at last.

Eddie blinks, suddenly he’s untangled and Captain is jumping up onto you, ever the hugger.  

He finally gets his head out of his ass and jogs up to you, grabbing Captain’s leash and yanking him off of you.

“Bad boy, Captain.  We’re supposed to ask for consent before hugging pretty girls.”

Eddie is elated when he spots a blush crawling up your cheeks.  You stand and brush yourself off.

“It’s really okay.  Captain has my consent to hug me any time he wants!”  Your voice had risen to a puppy-talk octave, Eddie never imagined he’d find that so adorable.  You lean down again to scratch Captain behind the ears, and the dog looks up at you with stars in his eyes.  Eddie, having caught a whiff of your perfume as you bent down, is sporting the same look.

You straighten up with a happy sigh and look up at Eddie with a grin. 

“Well then, now that we’re all introduced, how can I help you?”

Eddie all at once forgets why he’s here, caught up in your beautiful gaze.  He feels like he should shield his eyes from yours, lest he burst into flames from taking in your beauty. 

“I’m—uh...I’m grooming.   N-no, that’s not right, sorry.”  You giggle quietly while he tries to finish his sentence.

Eddie laughs at his own stupidity.  

“Sorry.  He’s getting groomed, he should have an appointment under Harrington I think?”

“Sure, let me check on that.” You turn away from him to walk back towards the front desk, and boy is it a treat for Eddie.  You’re wearing a cute company t-shirt, white sneakers, and these perfect fucking denim jeans that cause Eddie’s to get a little tighter.  They must’ve been tailor-made for you with the way they’re hugging your thighs, your hips, your ass–

“Alright, I’m seeing that Captain is just here for his routine trim, yes?”  You look from your computer screen up at Eddie to find him already staring at you with his mouth slightly open.  The look on his face makes you giggle a bit, and this seems to snap him out of his daze.

“Uh, yes.  That sounds right.”  Eddie shakes his head a bit to rid himself of all the impure thoughts swirling around in there.  “I’m just bringing him in for a friend, so whatever’s on there should be right.”

You pretend to type some more as you try and find the will to push down the blush warming your cheeks.  You already clocked that he was gorgeous when he stumbled through the front doors, but how in the hell does he keep getting better?  You noticed the bulge of his bicep when he yanked Captain off of you, the warm chestnut color of his eyes, and now his super-sexy-deep voice?  Being turned on at work was not on your agenda today…

After a few seconds of nonsense typing and very deep breaths, you look back up at Eddie to find him smiling at you.

“That’s really sweet of you, to help out your friend.”

Eddie puffs out his chest (as though he hasn’t been mentally complaining about watching Steve’s dog for multiple hours).  

“Yeah, I do what I can to help.” Eddie shrugs his shoulders in a way he hopes comes across as ’Yeah baby, I’m just a helpful guy.  Super nice, super sweet, definitely boyfriend material..’

You grin and finish getting Captain all checked in.  

“Alrighty!  Captain’s all good to go.  I can get him taken back and then we’ll see you in three hours.”  

Your sweet smile has Eddie captivated until he realizes you’re holding your hand out for Captain’s leash.  Eddie reluctantly hands it over, because now he has to wait a whole three hours to see you again.  You take the leash, wave ‘bye’ to Eddie, and walk through the door that leads to the rest of the salon.  Eddie lets out a deep sigh.

Goddamnit.

—

Three hours turned out to feel more like three days when it meant waiting to see your face again.  Eddie arrived fifteen minutes early to the salon (a first) and waited anxiously for Captain’s scheduled pickup time to roll around.  Eddie strutted into the salon not a second too late before screeching to a halt.

In your place, stood a much older, much rounder lady.  Eddie deflated a little, cursing himself for not finding out if you’d even be here at this time.  He huffs out a breath, and begins walking up to the front desk. 

Then, a thought pops into his head.

Maybe, if he’s nice enough, he can ask the older woman about you.  Then at least he’d have your name and maybe even when you were working next!

Eddie decides it’s time to amp up the ol’ Munson Charm.

His tentative walk turns into a swagger-filled stroll as he reaches the front desk.  Eddie leans on an elbow and smiles a devilish smile down at the woman.  She looks up at him with wide eyes as he dings the silver bell that sits on the desk, winking at her while he does it.

“H-How can I help you sir?”

“Oh sweetheart, please…call me Eddie.”  He goes on after she spends a moment too long gazing up at him, “And who might you be?”

She gulps and straightens her horned glasses.  “B-Betty.  Betty Brown.”

“Hello, Betty Brown,” Eddie can tell his charming smile is having an effect on her, and he’d be lying if it wasn’t boosting his ego a tiny bit.  “I’m here to pick up my dog, Captain.  Brought him by a few hours ago to get his haircut…you know how he likes to impress the ladies.”

Betty nods and takes a deep breath before turning to the computer to try and hide her smile. 

“Okay, Mr. Eddie.  I checked him out with the card on file, he should be up here shortly.” 

“Thanks, sweetheart.” Eddie waits a moment, before launching into his plan.  “I was actually hoping you could help me with a little something else.” 

Betty looks back up at him, blushing when they make eye contact.

“See, when I was in here earlier, there was a really nice girl helping me out.  But, silly me, I completely forgot to ask what her name was.”

To Eddie’s delight, Betty’s face lights up in recognition.  She says your name with so much glee that it’s obvious to him how loved you must be around here.

“Yes, she got off an hour ago.  She usually works the morning shifts, except on Fridays because those are her days off.”

Eddie quickly learned that underneath Betty’s bashful smile was a woman who loved to talk, and he couldn’t be happier for it.  Eddie quickly learned how long you’ve worked here, that you don’t have any pets of your own, and that last Christmas you brought the most delicious homemade cookies for the entire staff.  He also learned that you’ll be working again for the next two mornings.  

Eddie left with Captain and a smile on his face, but not before pressing a kiss to sweet, sweet Betty’s hand.  Thanks to her, Eddie’s confidence is restored and he actually thinks he might have a shot with you.  All he has to do now is figure out what his reasons will be for coming back to the salon two days in a row.  

–

He spent all evening pacing around the Harrington’s house trying to come up with excuses to come see you.  All of the ones he’d thought of so far made him look like even more of a jackass than he did today.  

I thought I might’ve dropped my wallet somewhere around here.  A gorgeous girl isn’t going to want to go out with a guy who drops his shit everywhere.  Pass.

I think Captain needs a little more of a haircut, maybe just another half inch off?  First of all, Eddie doesn’t know shit about haircuts.  He’s been doing his own with kitchen scissors in his bathroom mirror for over a decade.  Second, he would never risk potentially offending you and your work as a dog groomer on the off chance that you’re the one who cut Captain’s hair.  And lastly, for a dog, he’s got to admit that Captain looks pretty damn good after his appointment.  Who knew a dog could look so regal and majestic?  Anyways, PASS.

It was only after Eddie had plopped down on the leather couch with a huff of defeat that he heard the first few plinks of raindrops hitting the windows.  Eddie went to his phone to check the forecast for the rest of the night, and as luck would have it, there was a 100% chance of thunderstorms until tomorrow morning.  As all the pieces of his new plan began stitching themselves together, Eddie finally allowed himself to relax.

–

Eddie used to hate his “backyard,” if you could even call it that.  Behind the trailer was a medium sized patch of dirt, with some sorry-looking green plant-things trying their best to survive scattered about.  The only times Eddie would really look forward to going outside to play as a kid, much to Wayne’s dismay, was when it rained.  Because when it rained, the once dry and grainy surface turned into slippery, messy mud.  Eddie used to love sliding around and making mud pies and all of that stuff, and right now it seems like Captain is having just as much fun, if not more, than Eddie used to.  

The yard was fenced in, so Eddie wasn’t too worried about Captain running away despite Steve’s promises that he’s ‘leash-trained’.  Eddie planned to tell you otherwise though.

‘He just somehow managed to get away from me.  Yeah, I had to chase him all through the mud and dirt this morning.  But I caught him because I’m like, really fast and strong and stuff.’

He does feel a little guilty about lying to you.  But he figures that if it’s something the two of you can laugh over at your wedding someday, then it’s well worth the little white lies.

Eddie’s brought back from his reverie of you in a long, white dress by Captain dropping the mud-soaked tennis ball at his feet…again.

He couldn’t believe how much energy this dog had.  They’d already been out here for twenty minutes and Captain just kept going and going.  Eddie did have to admit, it was sort of fun watching him play.  He even found himself laughing out loud when Captain would get the ball stuck in a puddle of mud and not hesitate to dunk his entire head in to retrieve it.  There was even one point where Captain got so excited and amped up that he just zoomed around in circles over and over again. 

Maybe dogs aren’t so bad after all.

After another ten minutes of chasing around the now mud-covered tennis ball, Captain decides he’s done playing and sits down at Eddie’s feet.  Eddie can’t help but notice that he’s panting pretty hard.  “You must be thirsty, huh?”

Eddie runs inside the trailer to grab a tupperware bowl and fills it with cold water from the tap.  He hopes to god that Captain hasn’t run away already, he’s decided to really put Steve’s whole “leash training” thing to the test.  But sure enough, when Eddie shoves his front door open there he is, sitting nicely at the foot of the trailer’s steps.  Eddie pats his head, then promptly wipes the flaky, dried mud off onto his jeans.  “Good boy.” 

After Captain is done drinking water, Eddie looks him over to ensure that he is completely and totally covered head-to-toe in mud.  Letting out a satisfied sigh, he decides that it’s time for the next stage of his plan to take action.  

He loads Captain into the back of his van (Eddie makes sure to drive especially slow, and Captain pretty much lays down the whole time) and he sets off towards the salon.  

–

Eddie is practically vibrating with anticipation as he puts his van into park.  He’s ecstatic when he sees your beautiful face smiling after two customers as they exit the salon.  Eddie turns around in his seat to see Captain.

“Okay, buddy.  It’s showtime.  I need you to bring your A-game and be a real good wingman for me in there.  Got it?”

Captain tilts his head at Eddie, as though he didn’t understand a thing he said, but then straightens up and lets out a firm bark.  A laugh bursts out of Eddie as he turns the van off and goes to get Captain from the back.  Before rounding the side of his van, and while he’c completely out of your sight, he does a quick smell test on his pits and breath, and then double checks his hair and teeth in the reflection of his rear windows.  After deeming himself presentable, he takes a big deep breath.

“Don’t be stupid, Munson.  Think charming thoughts,” he says under his breath as he starts towards the front door.  

–

You’d be lying to yourself if you said you weren’t sticking around fifteen minutes after your shift was over yesterday in the hopes that Eddie would decide to come back early to pick up Captain.  It’s rare that a guy comes into the salon who looks to be around your age and single, but it’s much rarer that they’re as good-looking as Eddie is.  You spent the entire drive home and the rest of the night fantasizing about his voice, his big hands, his laugh.  You wondered what he did while he waited for Captain’s appointment to be done, what his favorite movie was, his favorite food…But most of all, you wondered if you were making up this mutual attraction in your head?  The nervous stuttering and blushing could just be from nervousness, but he was definitely staring at you a few times.  You also wonder whether or not you had actually caught him staring at your ass…but maybe it’s best not to get ahead of yourself.  Maybe he has a girlfriend.  Maybe he doesn’t even see you that way?  Maybe you should get a grip because you’re basing all of this delusion fantasy off of a ten minute conversation you had with the guy.  Leave it to you to construct a made-up scenario in your head after a short interaction with a new crush.

Be that as it may…you still made sure to carve out an extra half hour to get ready for your shift today.  You blow-dried your hair using your fancy products, spent quite a bit of time on your makeup, and spritzed some perfume on before you left.  You even made sure to wear the same jeans as you did the day before, just in case he was looking. 

The first half of your shift was spent hunched over the front desk, it was an extremely slow day so far.  You found yourself perking up a bit whenever a dark haired individual would walk by the front of the salon, only to droop back down again at the realization that it wasn’t who you wished it was.  With all the rain that came down in Hawkins last night, you figured more people would be making last minute appointments to have their dogs bathed, you’d hoped that today would be busy enough to keep your mind from wandering to a certain pair of warm, brown eyes.  But as your shift crawled towards the halfway point, suddenly things started looking up.

As excited as you were to spot a familiar gorgeous man walking into the salon again, you couldn’t conceal the look of shock on your face once your eyes landed on his mud-covered companion.

“Oh–oh my god!”  Eddie couldn’t quite read your expression, but he was relieved to hear a laugh bubble out of you after your exclamation.  He stood there sheepishly for a moment before he remembered his plan: Be. Charming.

You walk out from behind the desk with a hand covering your mouth, not quite believing what you were seeing.  There stood Captain, proudly smiling and panting, covered head to paw in mud.  Another laugh bubbled out of you, and you were pleased to find Eddie laughing with you.  

Goddamnit, that’s a sexy laugh he’s got.

“What…what happened to you?” You say to Captain, bending down to gently pat his head. 

“This absolute miscreant here got out of the house this morning and found himself a nice, muddy yard to roll around in.”  Eddie looked at you with a grin that made your knees weak.

He looked you up and down while you straightened back up.  Was there a way for someone to get a thousand times more beautiful overnight?

A blush rose to your cheeks as you caught him checking you out.  That settles it, he’s definitely flirting with you.  If he can be so forward about it, maybe you can too.

You look up at Eddie through your lashes, making sure to flutter them a couple times for good measure.

“Aw.  And here I was thinking you’d gotten him all dirty just so you could come and see me again.”

Eddie stills.  

Fuck, he can’t believe how hot you are. 

 Fuck, was his plan really that shitty?  Did you just call him out?  

Eddie’s panicking is subdued by your quiet giggle.  Thank god, you were kidding.

“It’s a good thing you managed to catch him, he looks like the type to go on an adventure in the woods.”  Eddie startles, quickly realizing he’d been full-on staring at you while conducting his mental freak-out.

“Oh, yeah.  I’m–like….fast…” Eddie can feel himself getting lost in your eyes as you stare up at him.  His words trail off into oblivion, nothing else exists other than your pretty smile, the little crinkles next to your eyes, your lips…

Holy shit, is Eddie staring at your lips right now?  Is he going to kiss you?  God, you hope he does, you’ve been fantasizing about his lips for hours now.  You can’t let him kiss you right here in the lobby…can you?

Eddie shakes his head a little, breaking himself from the trance you put him under.  

“Ahem, yeah,” Eddie loudly cleared his throat ,”It was no big deal, really.  He’s a good dog, came right back after he realized he was in the wrong.”  Eddie looked down at Captain, only to find him looking right back up at him, obviously judging him for his outright lies.  Eddie looks up at you, shrugging and shaking his head disapprovingly.  He lets out a big, over dramatic sigh ,”I just don’t know what I’m gonna do with this one.”

“Well it’s obviously not his fault,” you reply, “Look at that face!  That face could never do anything wrong.  I should know, I’m actually his lawyer.”  Eddie spots your poorly concealed smirk and decides to jump head first into this bit with you, excited to see if you can keep up.

“Oh really?”  He crosses his arms and takes a tiny step towards you.  This causes his t-shirt to pull taught around his arms, accentuating his biceps.  Your mouth waters a bit.

“Yes, really.  My client is as innocent as they come.”  You place your hands on your hips and look up at him with a level of sass Eddie had no idea you were capable of.  He decides that he loves it. 

“Huh, that’s interesting.  I totally object.” 

“Are you implying that he acted with intent?  Are you attempting to slander my client?” You place your hand on your chest in a “pearl-clutching” type of way, Eddie stifles a laugh.

“I am indeed.  He knew exactly what he was doing when he ran out that door, the evidence is all over his fur,” Eddie replies.

“My client was just following his nose, any mess that ensued was purely circumstantial.  He is innocent of any and all wrongdoing.”  Eddie feels like he’s got stars in his eyes, he can already picture you fitting in so perfectly into a DnD campaign.  You take his pause as a sign to bring your argument home.

“This is a clear case of prosecutorial overreach.  My client was acting in the best interest of the household, ensuring that the yard was thoroughly inspected for potential threats, pests, intruders, or otherwise.  Any mud on his fur is merely a badge of his dedication to home security.”  You cross your arms, clearly having won this fake-case.  

Eddie takes a step back and starts a slow clap.  You take a tiny bow and burst into a fit of giggles.

“I’m impressed, sweetheart.” You hope Eddie doesn’t see how affected you are by that nickname.  “Where the hell did all the legal jargon come from?”

“I used to watch a lot of Law and Order.”  You look down, suddenly shy with a sparkly feeling in your chest.  You really hope you didn’t come across as super weird.  It’s been a while since you’ve been able to have banter like that with someone else.  Hawkins isn’t a very diverse place, and you’ve found that the majority of the people living here tend to be pretty cookie-cutter conservative.  It feels great to let loose a little with someone you’re interested in, you just hope you’ll get more opportunities to do it.

Eddie, on the other hand, can’t stop looking at you.  Is this what falling in love feels like?  The girls in this town all seem to have made their own assumptions and come to their own conclusions about Eddie: he’s a devil worshiper, a satanist, a hookup to check off their bucket list and then never speak to again.  But not you, obviously.  You don’t look at him with the same disgust in your eyes as everyone else in this town does.  Your eyes are full of a kindness and warmth that Eddie could see himself getting used to.

“So, uh,” Eddie rambles, “What’s the verdict for Mr. Captain?”  Captain perks up at the sound of his name, you giggle at the tilt of his head.

“Hm,” You tap your finger to your chin and look off into the distance, “I think a nice, relaxing bath would do.  Maybe a couple treats, too, for being such a good boy.”  You squat down to Captain’s height to scratch him behind the ears, and Eddie can’t help but cringe a little at the flakes of dried mud that drift down off of Captain’s head and onto the floor.

You grab Captain’s leash from Eddie as you stand back up, walking him over to the desk to get him checked in at the computer.  He’s delighted to discover that you’re wearing the same pair of jeans as you were yesterday, and he mentally kicks himself for sneaking another peek at the way your hips sway as you walk.  Eddie deflates a little at the realization that this might be the end of this interaction.  He never wants to stop talking to you.  

“I’m guessing the card on file is what we’ll be using today?”  You ask sweetly, looking up at Eddie.

“Uh, yeah.  Yeah that’s just fine, thank you.” 

Holding eye contact with Eddie, you murmur “,You’re very welcome,” with a smile.

Oh, Eddie is so totally fucked.

Eddie watches as you walk Captain to the hallway door and hand his leash off to a younger girl.  You happily trot back up to the front desk and lean on it with your smiling face resting in your hands.

“Oh, you– you’re not giving him his bath?” Eddie stammers out.

“Nope.” You reply, popping the ‘p.’ “I’m stuck on front desk duty today.”  

Eddie sighs, relieved that your conversation might not be over.  He puts his elbows on the counter and leans towards you a bit. “Well, it can’t be all that bad.”

Your smile widens and you tilt your head, “I think it’s starting to get better.”

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

tag list:

@anukulee @josephquinnsfreckles

[munsonsmixtapes]

Angel

Evan “Buck” Buckley x fem!shy!probie!reader

summary: You and Buck have been acting weird since the night at the bar and the other members of the 118 get suspicious of your relationship

word count: 2k

part one part three part four part five

The kitchen was empty when you showed up to work. You had gotten there early to prepare the meal you were going to share together to thank the crew for being so welcoming. You had a big feast planned out and were really looking forward to everyone enjoying the meal you prepared for them and the time that it took to do so.

Not only had you wanted to impress Bobby, but you also wanted to impress Buck…maybe a little. You hadn’t stopped thinking about him since the night before and were suddenly really excited to see him.

It seemed like everyone entered at the same time and they all followed the smell of your cookies that had cooled down just enough. Buck was the first to enter the kitchen and he reached for a cookie, but you slapped his hand before he could get one.

“Damn, slugger,” he winced as he clutched his hand to his chest in a dramatic manner. You had every intention of letting him have a cookie, but now you kind of wanted him to work for it.

“Who’s slugger?” Hen asked as she got a cookie and took a bite.

“No one,” Buck winked at you. “Just an inside joke.” You felt your cheeks warm and you lowered your head, feeling your cheeks warm.

“An inside joke?” Eddie asked as he also got a cookie and took a huge bite out of it. “This is so good. What’s the occasion?”

“Yes,” you nodded your head. “And I just wanted to make you guys something to thank you.” You felt yourself becoming all shy again despite how close you were getting to everyone.

“You didn’t have to thank us,” Bobby spoke up as he entered the kitchen, followed by Chimney and Ravi, all reaching for the baking sheet, now the only one not with a cookie being Buck. “You’re family now.”

Your heart warmed at the words and you turned to Bobby who gave you a smile. You then turned back to Buck who was already looking at you, a smirk playing on his pink lips. You picked up a cookie off the sheet and handed it to him, your fingers brushing as he reached out to grab it.

“Well, since we’re family, I’m making you all my best dish. Homemade lasagna.”

“Sounds great,” Eddie gave your shoulder a squeeze and Buck didn’t miss it, still unsure of whether or not something was happening between the two of you. He really hoped there wasn't.

“Is there going to be garlic bread?” He asked and you gave him a look as if to say "Really?"

“You're right," he chuckled. "Stupid question."

"Of course there's going to be garlic bread, Buckley. And salad and more cookies." You smiled to yourself proudly as you watched the rest of the crew devour the cookies you had gotten up early to bake.

"Good," Chimney spoke up. "Because these definitely won't last until dinner." He grabbed another cookie and chewed on it.

"Yeah," Ravi chimed in, grabbing another one as well. At that point, it was hard to keep track of how many there were to begin with. You were so glad you had doubled the recipe at the last minute.

Buck moved closer to you, letting his shoulder brush yours and you were still unsure of his intentions as far as you were concerned. You were still very unsure whether or not he was actually interested in you. Maybe you'd have to ask Eddie since asking Buck himself was definitely not something you felt ready to do.

Even though you were getting more comfortable with him since you had hung out at the bar the night before, you still didn't feel as close to him as you did to Eddie, who had become your closest friend in the 118. He was like a brother to you and you were very grateful to have him.

You turned in his direction, but you weren't thinking about him. Buck had invaded your mind and all you could think about was how you should have just taken the chance and kissed him in the elevator the night before like you had wanted to. You weren't sure how it would have played out, but you would have hoped that he would have returned it.

"Whatcha thinking about over there, slugger?" Buck nudged your shoulder and you immediately pulled your attention away from Eddie, suddenly feeling embarrassed.

"Nothing," you shook your head.

"If you like him, you should say something," he said low enough for just you to hear.

"I don't like Eddie." And you didn't. Not like that, anyway. You were afraid you were starting to feel that way about Buck, though. But you were going to push those feelings down because you didn't think that getting involved romantically with a coworker was the best idea. You had seen that play out so many times and it never ended well.

"Well, it seems like you do with the hearts that were forming in your eyes." How were you going to explain that you were thinking about him and just happened to be looking in Eddie's direction? And it would have been just downright embarrassing to admit that you were thinking about kissing him. As far as you were concerned, you were going to take that secret to your grave.

"Alright, I guess I believe you," he nudged you shoulder one more time before grabbing one more cookie than heading over to the couch to take a seat.

Buck didn't understand how you couldn't see how he felt about you. Everyone else in the 118 could, so why did you seem so clueless? And why couldn't tell if his feelings were reciprocated? That was something that was so obvious to him, but you were just a big question mark. You were mysterious and he couldn't figure you out for the life of him.

He knew that you were shy and maybe he just needed to get closer to you for you to fully open up. But then there was Eddie. You were definitely close to him and Buck was definitely jealous of that even though he'd never admit it. Every time he watched the two of you, he felt sick to stomach and would suddenly be filled with anger.

He watched Eddie whispering something as the two of you sat on the couch, not even aware that he was crumbling his cookie in his fist, catching the attention of Chimney. He sat to the left of him, completely blocking his view of you and Eddie and maybe that was for the best.

“What’s going on, Buck?” Chimney asked and Buck just furrowed his eyebrows.

“Nothing,” Buck shook his head.

“Well, something clearly made you upset since you crumbled your cookie.” Buck looked down and opened his hand, the cookie crumbs falling to the table.

“It’s nothing, Chim, I swear.” Buck knew that Chimney was just looking out for him, but it just seemed like he was trying to pry and Buck didn’t like that. Not one bit. This was no one’s business but his own. And maybe yours if he ever got the guts to tell you how he felt.

“Well, let’s just say that if looks could kill, Eddie would definitely be dead.”

Buck sat with the words the entire day, deciding that he was finally going to tell you after work. He could see how it would play out so clearly in his head. He’d show up at your apartment and tell you exactly how he felt about you and you’d respond with a kiss before telling him that you felt the same way. You’d then invite him inside and the two of you would snuggle up on your couch and watch a movie, your night filled with nothing but kisses and giggles.

But all of that came crashing down when he watched Eddie chasing you around the firehouse. As soon as he caught you, he picked you up and spun you around, giggles spilling from both of your mouths. Nothing going on between you and Eddie his ass. He didn’t want to see the rest of the interaction and hurried to his locker to grab his stuff. He really needed to get the hell out of there as soon as possible.

“Damn, where’s the fire, Buck?” Hen chuckled. “Got a hot date?”

“Something like that,” Buck muttered under his breath as he put the strap of his bag over his shoulder, making a beeline for his jeep just in time to watch you and Eddie exit the firehouse to the parking lot.

“Hey, Eds,” you called after him. Eds? Yeah, Buck was so fucked. “Can I get a ride to the bar? I left my car there last night.”

“Sorry, I have to go pick up Chris. But Buck should be able to.” Eddie was trying his hardest to set the two of you up and he was hoping that now he would finally be successful. He had hoped that leaving the two of you alone at the bar the night before would have made you confess your feelings to each other, but considering the fact that you weren’t acting like a couple, he was beginning to think that didn’t happen.

“Is that okay, Buck?” There was no fucking way that he was going to be in a car alone with you. You were a taken woman and he was afraid of what he would do. He wanted to kiss you so bad and he definitely wasn’t going to hurt his best friend by doing so.

“Sure, come on.” He nodded his head towards the parking lot and you followed him. He should have known that he couldn’t say no to you. Once you were both in his jeep, he sped off to the bar, simultaneously wanting you to be out of the car as soon as possible but also wanting to spend time with you. He couldn’t seem to make up his mind. Especially since it seemed like you were dating his best friend.

Buck was suspiciously quiet as he drove, maybe going a little bit over the speed limit. You looked over at him and could see that his jaw was clenched and he seemed very upset. What had happened that the man who never shut up had been rendered speechless? Surely it had been your fault, right?

“Buck?” You asked, turning to look at him again. He kept quiet, not even looking your way. “Buck, c’mon, what’s going on?”

“Nothing,” he shook his head. “It’s stupid.”

“I bet it’s not. I know we’re not exactly close, but you can tell me, I promise.” His anger was reaching its peak as he pulled into the parking lot of the bar. He pulled into a spot and put the jeep in park before getting out, making his way towards the building. He couldn’t tell you now. He really couldn’t.

“Buck,” you called after him as you followed his lead, trying to catch up to him. “Buck, please,” you pleaded.

Now he felt like a dick. All you were trying to do was talk to him and he was treating you like garbage. You didn’t deserve that. Especially when you didn’t do anything wrong.

“You wanna know what’s going on?” He asked, turning around to face you. “Fine,” he sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I like you, okay?”

Your eyebrows furrowed at his words. Of course he liked you. You were friends, right? Unless there was some underlying meaning to his words that you were missing.

“I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you since the moment you stepped into the fire house and it’s driving me fucking crazy.” He was stepping closer to you and you were just trying to wrap your head around the whole thing. He liked you? As more than a friend? Since when?

“You like me?” That was not what you thought he was going to say. It was very common for the people you liked to not reciprocate your feelings, shutting you down time and time again. But this was different. Buck liked you. He liked you and as more than a friend.

“I do,” he nodded. “But don’t worry about it. I know you’re with Eddie.” Where had he gotten that impression? You and Eddie were friends. Just friends, absolutely no attraction between you. And Buck should have known that.

“Buck, I’m not with Eddie,” you laughed. “He’s just a friend. More like a brother, actually.”

“You what-”

“I like you,” you told him, taking his hands in yours. His eyes widened then he looked on either side of him, but you grabbed him by his face, forcing him to look you in the eyes. “Yes, you, Buck.”

“But, what about-”

“For once in your life will you please just shut up?” You asked and pressed your lips to his. He gasped into your mouth but he eventually melted into you, wrapping his arms around your waist as his lips slotted between yours.

It was soft and sweet and everything either of you could have imagined. His lips were just as soft as you were hoping and he seemed to pour all of his feelings for you that he had accumulated over the past few weeks into the kiss, making you feel nothing but special.

Just as he licked into your mouth, a rain droplet hit your cheek. You pulled away just as it started to downpour and Buck grabbed you by the hand and pulled you under the awning to shield you both from the rain and his lips found yours once again and he smiled into it.

“What?” You laughed.

“Nothing,” he pecked your lips. “You’re just an angel.”

[megalony]

Please, Hurry Up

Okay, so this is my first imagine for Eddie x Buck x Reader x Tommy and I got such a lovely request for this. I hope you will all like it, please let me know what you think.

Taglist: @justagirlthatlovedtoread @musicistheway @avada-kedavra-bitch-187 @luula @missdreamofendless @bradleybeachbabe @woderfulkawaii @amberpanda99 @daggersquadphantom @marvel-and-chicago-fan @angryknightstatesmantrash @minjix @lyjen @kmc1989 @itsmytimetoodream @noonenuts @hiireadstuff @ashie-babie @classyunknownlover @jayyeahthatsme @sp1ritssz @dumb-fawkin-bitch @oliverstarksbae @gimatida @heart-35 @supernaturalstilinski @stefansalvatoresgf @kyky9103 @wutheringhearts2275 @gay4hotmilfs @itshamleth @chaoticnosleepinfluencer @gs29 @wh0reforsmutstuff @mel-vaz @natashamea18 @chrisevansdaughter @alexandra8484 @deena-beena-weena @targaryenluvs @shelbygeek @kpoplover-19 @marvelmenarebeautiful @gillybear17

@zoeybennett @mrspeacem1nusone @zephyrmonkey @estella-novella @eleventhdoctorsangel @kniselle @senjoritanana

@shauna-carsley @dottierose @cfdhouse51 @darkfemme1 @rainechase45 @ml572 @jessie-lynn28 @lolalolsstuff @jupiter1700 @ashdoctor @an-aliens-ghost @lunaroserites @houseoftwistedspirits @itshamleth @loveyouamory

Buddie Masterlist

Part 2

Summary: While the boys are all out at work, (Y/n) has an accident and has to wait for one of them to come home and help her.

Enjoy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A sigh rumbled past (Y/n)'s lips as she trailed her fingertips along the wall, making her way down the hall. She could feel Evan hovering close behind her and she was sure he was about to reach out for her before she tried to speed up her steps to keep ahead of him.

She twisted around the sharp corner and padded into the kitchen, locking her eyes on her other partner. Eddie's back was to her, tense, straight and shoulders square as he leaned forward to grab the kettle. He was starting their usual morning routine and (Y/n) smiled when she noticed he had gotten three travel mugs out the cupboard on instinct, even though Tommy was already at work.

"Baby please-"

"Don't try and suck up to me Evan, it won't wash." (Y/n) pulled her arm away when she felt Evan try to reach out for her and she pushed forward until she was stood behind Eddie.

Her face pressed into his back between his shoulders, her nose brushing against his cotton shirt that smelt of the strong tropical softner the boys loved to use in the washing. She bound her arms loosely around Eddie's waist and closed her eyes, staying tucked up against his back for a few moments while he poured the drinks.

A low whistle hummed past Eddie's lips as he glanced over his shoulder to try and look at (Y/n), but he couldn't see her properly with how she was clinging to him. He adverted his gaze across to Evan, raising a brow when the blond huffed and headed over to the fridge.

"Okay, what am I missing here?" Eddie curved his free arm behind him and gave (Y/n)'s hip a gentle squeeze before he slowly turned around in her arms.

He leaned his hips back against the counter and wormed his arm around (Y/n)'s waist, letting her slump forward into his chest.

He took in what she was wearing and it made a grin work onto his features. She was wearing a pair of lounge shorts, although Eddie couldn't be sure who they belonged to, he just knew they weren't (Y/n)'s. And he knew the grey sleep shirt she was wearing was definitely Tommy's because of the way it hung off one shoulder and slid down her arm and how it went down to her thighs.

She had been living in their clothes recently and all three of them loved it, the boys had made a game out of guessing whose clothes (Y/n) was wearing each day.

Eddie feathered his fingers up and down (Y/n)'s hip and took a moment to lean forward and kiss her temple. But his eyes cast between two of his three partners, trying to work out what they were at odds over.

"Did you really want me to invite them-"

"Evan." (Y/n) sharply looked over her shoulder, cutting him off before he had the chance to try and dull this down. "I don't care if you invite them or not, I care that you haven't even told them."

"Someone explain please." Eddie handed over a mug of steaming hot black coffee towards Evan and pushed a glass of juice to his side for (Y/n). His head dipped forward to kiss her temple again and he smiled softly when he moved his hand from her hip to graze along her stomach.

He knew the baby had been kicking up a storm last night, making it hard for (Y/n) to settle and get a good night's sleep. But of course, now that they were all awake and Eddie was trying to move his hand around her bump, the baby seemed settled and asleep. Typical.

"He hasn't told his parents I'm pregnant." (Y/n) folded her arms over her chest and twisted around so her back was resting up against Eddie's chest. His hand stayed firmly on her stomach but both of them looked to the side to glance at Evan.

He bit his lip, letting his shoulders sag as he grumbled something under his breath.

"Buck, come on, you said you would."

"Yeah, and if my mum returned my calls then I would have told them by now. They don't wanna be in my life and you all know that, why does it matter? I don't want them at the shower next week."

Evan put his mug down on the counter and crossed his arms, mimicking the pose (Y/n) had as if he was trying to rile her up or make her laugh, one of the two.

He didn't talk to his parents often, the odd text here and there and a sporadic phone call was the most Evan got out of them. And he liked it that way. They couldn't be bothered to put in the time with him. They didn't make the effort and Evan was tired of begging for attention he deserved but never seemed to receive. If they didn't want to be in his life then he wouldn't try so hard to let them in, he would keep them at arms length.

"It matters to me." (Y/n)'s voice was quiet and had a tremor to it. She couldn't bring herself to look up at Evan and she continued to stare down at her feet, even when she felt Eddie's fingertips squeeze her stomach.

"Buck, you have to at least tell them. Don't you think they'll be confused as Hell if they talk to Maddie in a few months and she mentions looking after her niece or nephew or tells them how the baby's doing?"

They all knew Maddie was excited. She had been the most hyped person they told when they found out (Y/n) was pregnant. She was eager to be an aunt and see her little brother start his own family and they already knew she would be demanding babysitting duties as soon as she could.

Evan had to tell his parents. It didn't matter if they weren't accepting or tried to lecture him, as long as they knew that they were going to have a grandchild. It would cause a lot more problems if Maddie brought up in passing conversation that she was looking after the baby or the baby was okay and her parents had no idea what she was talking about.

"My mum isn't speaking to me, Eddie's parents think I'm some kind of tart, Tommy's mum is the only one who doesn't look at me funny, but at least they know about me. I'd like them to know you're gonna be a dad."

(Y/n) pulled out of Eddie's arms and walked past the pair of them, binding her arms over her bump as she headed into the living room.

(Y/n) never expected any of their friends or family to understand. She didn't expect anyone to agree or like or understand the relationship she had with Evan, Eddie and Tommy. But she didn't want to hide it either.

Her parents hadn't been pleased and since she told them she was pregnant, her mum wasn't talking to her. She didn't like the fact that (Y/n) kept saying the baby was theirs, as in all the boys. The only thing her mum would say was 'it physically can't belong to all three of them' but that wasn't what (Y/n) meant. They would bring this baby up as theirs, biology didn't matter. They were all in this relationship together and this baby was going to be loved beyond compare.

Eddie's parents were devout catholics. They were somewhat accepting, although Eddie saw the way they looked at him when he kissed Evan or Tommy. They didn't agree with four people being in a relationship and (Y/n) saw the way his mum looked at her. As if she was a tart or a gold digger or just stringing them all along. But at least Eddie's parents knew about the baby and they were trying to be accepting.

Tommy's parents were divorced and he had no contact with his dad whatsoever. He hadn't spoken to him in years so naturally he hadn't told his dad about his poly relationship or the impending baby. But he was on speaking terms with his mum and she had been the only one so far who just rolled with this and continued to talk to her son and his partners.

And they all knew Evan counted Bobby and Athena as his parents, he had given Bobby a onesie with 'grandad's best friend' across the front to explain that (Y/n) was pregnant.

That didn't mean he couldn't just ignore his mum and dad and not tell them about this news.

"Baby…" Evan rattled his fingers through his hair and followed (Y/n) into the living room, feeling Eddie hot on his heels.

He waited for (Y/n) to ease down onto the sofa before he moved in front of her and crouched down in front of her legs. He slowly parted her knees to the sides and leaned his chest forward so he was wedged comfortably between her thighs, his arms folded over her lap. Evan could see he was already worming his way into her good graces. Her arms were still folded on her bump but the anger was fading from her eyes when she looked down at him.

(Y/n) let her head lean to the right against Eddie when he perched down on the arm of the sofa and draped an arm around the back of her shoulders.

"Baby, they know about all of you, I just… my mum can be spiteful when she wants to be. I promise when she finally decides to answer my calls, they'll know about bubba." He leaned forward a little more until his hands were cupping (Y/n)'s stomach and he lifted her -Tommy's- shirt so his lips could attach to her bump.

He wasn't deliberately doing this on purpose, he wasn't avoiding his parents but when they didn't answer him, he got more and more reluctant to call. It seemed pointless. He just wanted to enjoy being with his family without his parents ruining his mood. And he didn't want to invite them to the baby shower next week. They wouldn't understand.

It was only a small gathering. Eddie's parents were actually coming down and they promised to be civil, they were making the effort, mainly because Chris had rung them and asked if they were going. Hearing Chris be so happy and affectionate and proud to be a big brother melted their hearts.

Maddie was coming, she was organising the whole day, much to Evan's disappointment because he wanted to do it at first, but he got told he wasn't allowed to organise a party for himself.

The team were coming too. All of them had been surprisingly happy and accepting of their poly relationship. And Tommy had invited a few close friends from the 217 who were happy for him and understood his family and relationship.

It was going to be a good day, Evan didn't want his parents ruining any aspect of it.

(Y/n) leaned her cheek on Eddie's thigh and smiled softly when she felt his fingers carding through her hair. While Evan smiled against her stomach and whispered something far too quietly for her to make out. All the boyos had taken to whispering to the baby like it was a game, seeing what they could get away with that (Y/n) wouldn't be able to hear. Most of the time she heard them, but sometimes she didn't and their cheeky smiles made her curious what they were saying to their baby.

At least, even if their grandparents weren't as involved or loving, this baby was going to have four doting parents.

***

(Y/n) tilted her chin down towards her chest and let her eyes fall closed. Her ears blanked out the music playing softly in the background and focused on the sound the water made when it cascaded down her skin and trickled in odd formations around her elbows.

Her hand cupped the back of her neck and her other hand moved down to smooth across her stomach she inhaled the steam, hoping it would ward off the headache she had felt all morning.

Time seemed to drag since Evan and Eddie left this morning and (Y/n) had tried to tidy up and do some general cleaning, but her head started to cloud over and she started to feel tired. A shower was always the best option when she felt like this. She was hoping to wake herself up a bit more and tidy up before Tommy came home.

Eddie and Evan would be on shift until late tonight which meant they would be having dinner at the station and since Chris was having a sleepover with a friend tonight, that left (Y/n) and Tommy home for dinner.

He had been on shift since five this morning and he would be home soon so (Y/n) thought a shower would be her best option. She didn't want to take a power nap, unlike any of the boys, sleeping during the day made (Y/n) feel worse. But in their line of work, all three of the boys needed a few hours here and there if they did night shifts or pulled a double.

Her fingers danced across her stomach as she tried to focus on the music and hum along. She always preferred a shower when one of the boys joined her, it didn't feel right taking one alone.

She could only just hear the music playing on her phone over the harsh sound of the water spraying all around her but (Y/n) liked background noise, she didn't like silence.

With a sigh, she opened her eyes and turned slowly. She had been under the water for ten minutes too long now, it was time to get washed and get out before she stayed under here forever and fell asleep or shrivelled up like a prune.

She shuffled towards the other end of the bath where the shower gels were, and Chris's crazy soap that he had called 'snow' since he was little. They bought at least three cans of that soap a week because he loved to mess with it and pretend to make drinks and generally make a mess whenever he had a bath.

Her foot slipped.

A sound resembling a scream got caught in the back of her throat and everything turned to static when she fell.

Both arms flapped out to try and make her landing less harsh, but there wasn't anything to grab onto and she was crashing down into the bottom of the tub faster than she could try and save herself. The left side of her head smashed into the edge of the tub, creating a resounding bang to echo off the tiles.

Her elbows whacked into the sides of the tub and sent shockwaves rattling through her bones as both arms jolted and spasmed from the shock.

A twinge pulled at her lower back when she landed with an ungodly thud, but it was the agony in her left ankle that made her scream.

"Fuck," (Y/n) whined, keeping her eyes closed as she tried to gasp for the air that got knocked out of her. It took a minute or so until she gained enough breath to stop her lungs from burning and she found the energy to open her eyes and lift her head.

Suddenly, the hot water felt scolding and the droplets were harsh like bullets firing down on her. The tub felt oddly small and cramped. It felt like it was shrinking. How had (Y/n) fit in here with Eddie last week when right now she didn't feel like she could lay in here properly on her own.

Her elbows twinged and ached when she tried to level them on either side of the bathtub to push herself up, but she didn't hold the strength just yet. Her body slid back down and she slumped her head back, letting the tears stream down her face as a quiet sob burned at the back of her throat.

Thank God the house was detached and the neighbours wouldn't be close enough to hear this. That would be the last thing (Y/n) needed.

She felt the baby give out a kick and she flopped her hand on her stomach, rubbing circles as she willed herself not to throw up. She had unintentionally woken the baby, as long as that was all she had done. Her heart gave out an extra two beats and hammered against her ribs at the thought of something happening to the baby.

She hadn't landed on her stomach or whacked her stomach against the bath. The baby would be alright, wouldn't they?

They were only six and a half months along, (Y/n) couldn't afford to have any complications now. She couldn't go off work yet or go in hospital or be put on bed rest, and she certainly couldn't have the baby yet. They had to be okay.

"Up. Get up." She coached herself through sobs that rolled past her lips at how her body was aching and pulsing like she was a boombox.

She couldn't help herself. Little bubbling sobs and whimpers passed through her lips and made her chest quake but each movement made her ribs ache and her muscles burned.

Why did all three of her boys have to be at work when (Y/n) fell? Why did she have to be such an accident prone? Why had she let herself get into this situation when she was home alone?

Tears burned down her face like acid and horrid cries gurgled past her lips.

Her hands grabbed the sides of the tub and she tried once again to pull herself up, but her arms started to shake and her back felt horrid. But she managed it. She just about managed to sit up and slump her back against the edge of the tub so she was sitting up rather than crumpled down like a flannel.

"Oh no," Gasps tumbled past her lips when she looked down at her left ankle.

Great.

It was swelling up. Her foot was expanding like it was full of water and was going to pop. Her ankle was starting to grow and expand, trying to match the size of her baby bump.

The moment she tried to plant both feet down on the floor, a twinge shot up her foot right to her hip and she cried out. Her legs trembled and she dropped her knees, letting her legs slump back down.

She couldn't stand up.

There was no way (Y/n) was going to be able to get herself stood up or leant up on one foot. Her left ankle had twisted, she might have torn a muscle, God forbid she might have broken her ankle. She prayed she hadn't. (Y/n) was pregnant, she couldn't be hobbling around with a cast on her ankle. She had Chris to look after. If she was out of action one of the boys would have to stay home to help her and (Y/n) couldn't be a burden.

If she couldn't stand up or get herself out of the bath, she was going to have to call someone.

Groaning, (Y/n) twisted and flopped until she was laid on her right side but even a twisting motion sent shockwaves through her ankle and had her gasping.

Her chest pressed uncomfortably into the side of the tub and she propped her chin on the edge, hating how it dug into her throat, but she didn't have any other choice. Trembles rocked through her body as she flapped her hand out, trying to find her phone that was resting on the unit beside the bath. She had to have it close by so she could switch songs.

Her fingers curled around her phone and she dragged it off the side, staring at the screen through blurring tears as she clicked off the music app and onto contacts.

She couldn't call 911.

If she did that, strangers would barge into her home. (Y/n) didn't want strangers coming in and trying to touch her, she could barely hold a conversation with new people. Having them come into her home and lift her out of the bath and assess her was not something she could do. That was why she and Evan loved having Eddie as a medic, they didn't have to socialise or go to the doctor for minor injuries when Eddie could just take care of them.

And she was naked. (Y/n) didn't have any clothes with her in the bathroom and there was no way she was having strangers coming in seeing her laid naked in the bath.

She needed one of her boys.

Tommy was her first thought and she clicked on his contact, biting her lip to stop from screaming when her foot started to twitch.

He didn't answer. Of course he didn't. He would be finishing his shift around about now, that meant he was either getting changed, getting a shower or already on his way home. "Please be coming home," (Y/n) murmured when she hung up.

Lying here waiting for him wasn't ideal, so her thumb swiped over Eddie's contact. It rang, and rang, and rang. He didn't answer. He was at work, he would probably be out on a call and they didn't always take their phones with them on calls in case they lost them or dropped and smashed them- something Chimney often did.

"Evan, please," She willed him to pick up, he was her last shot. But again, she got no answer.

Another scream left her lips which ended in a ragged sob and she dropped her phone onto the bath mat beneath her. Still close enough to reach if needed, but she couldn't sit and ring them all until someone answered.

She was going to have to wait until Tommy came home.

With a huff, (Y/n) flopped her arm behind her and turned off the shower, glad the tap was next to the bath tap or else she wouldn't have been able to reach to turn it off.

She was thankful she had left her towel on the floor beside the bath so it was easy to grab when she got out. Her arm stretched out over the side and she grabbed the towel, yanking it over until she could drape it over herself like a blanket.

"Tommy, please, hurry up."

***

Tommy's shoulders sagged the moment he walked through the door. He let his bag drop to the floor next to the shoe rack and he let his torso hit the door with a bang so he could kick his boots off.

He wanted to go to bed.

Nine of his twelve hours at work had been spent flying from emergency to emergency, and the last few hours were spent switching between joining in on a call out to a burning building and helping clean the station. He was done. He was ready for a whole five days off which couldn't have come sooner.

He shrugged off his jacket and hung it on the rack before his brows furrowed and he took a moment to listen.

The tv wasn't on. The radio wasn't playing. He couldn't hear anything.

Tommy knew Chris wouldn't be here, his step-son was out at a sleepover after school today so naturally the house was a bit quieter without him. And he remembered both Evan and Eddie were on shift today and wouldn't be home until tonight. The four of them had a movie night planned for when the boys finished work.

But usually there was some kind of noise when he came home. (Y/n) didn't like silence. He thought she would have been watching tv or cleaning or doing crafts with the radio on, but he couldn't see or hear anything.

"Anyone home?" He plodded through the hall and peered into the living room, but the tv was off and there were no books or crafts or notepads scattered about anywhere to suggest (Y/n) had been in there.

She wasn't in the kitchen or the dining room either. Either she had gone out or she was having a nap.

"Tommy?"

A smile fluttered across his tired lips and he straightened his back, clicking his spine into place as he headed down the hall, following (Y/n)'s faint voice that called out to him like a siren.

"You okay honey?" He rapped his knuckles on the bathroom door, about to walk past towards the bedroom to get changed until he heard her mewl his name again, croaky this time.

Was she crying?

"Honey, what's wrong?" He twisted back to face the door, sighing in relief when the door opened. He knew (Y/n) had a habit of locking the door sometimes, even when she was home alone. He didn't want to have to break the lock- again- and have to fix it a second time in less than a year. Last time he broke it because (Y/n) had passed out with the door locked.

Tommy opened the door and took a look around, but he wasn't expecting the sight he was greeted with.

(Y/n) was laid in the bath, her chin and one arm were draped over the side of the tub. Tears were streaked down her face and she was hiccupping through her breaths but it was the sorrow mixing with agony in her eyes that set Tommy's heart on fire.

"Honey, what's the matter?" He walked over and crouched down beside the tub, folding his arms over the edge.

But the smile he tried to fake dimmed when he realised there was no water in the bath. She wasn't laid soaking in the bath, she was curled up in an empty tub with a towel scrunched up across her chest. The only part of her that was wet was her hair that was becoming crimped and tangled.

"I slipped… T-Tommy I can't get up." Her eyes darted down to her legs and she felt Tommy lean over her so he could see what she was looking at.

He hissed, taking a sharp breath when he noticed how swollen her left ankle was. Her foot looked like a balloon.

"Fuck- how long have you been laid here?" His hand slid down to cup the side of her neck and he smoothed his thumb across her jaw, taking in the sight of her. She was trembling but he wasn't sure if it was because she was cold or from the shock setting in.

How long had she been laid like this, waiting for him to come home? She could have made herself worse waiting. Had she been sat here in agony, panicking and waiting for him to get back?

"Not long… I couldn't get hold of any of you."

"Baby you could have called 911, you know this is kind of an emergency if you're stuck or hurt."

"I don't have any clothes in here. I'm not having some s-stranger see or move me like this, Tommy please-" Tears welled up in her eyes again but she snapped her eyes closed when both Tommy's hands moved to cup her face. His thumbs brushed beneath her eyes, swiping away the few stray droplets before he pressed a wet kiss to her temple.

He could see (Y/n) wasn't in mass agony, she didn't have any wounds or profusive cuts or broken bones sticking out. And she clearly wasn't crippled with agony from any internal wounds, if that was the case he knew she would have called 911. But he didn't like the thought of her having to wait for him to come home when she was hurt.

He understood. Having multiple strangers trying to grab and help her when she was naked wasn't an ideal situation and Tommy didn't like that thought either.

At least if it was him or Eddie or Evan, no strangers were getting an eyeful of their girlfriend and she was safe and comfortable this way.

"Okay, okay honey, I'm sorry." He kissed her temple again and gently tilted her head back so he could peck her lips. "What about the baby? Are you having any pains?"

(Y/n) leaned her cheek on Tommy's arm, watching the way his nose crinkled as he let go of her face so he could trail his hand down her side. He tossed the towel towards the other end of the bath so he could see her stomach and trace his fingertips along her bump.

She didn't flinch away from his touch and he couldn't feel anything such as a hernia or unusually warm patches indicating a bleed. All of that was a good sign.

"No, no pains. They're moving, t-that's good, right?"

"Yeah, that's a good sign. What about your ankle, can you move it at all?"

Tommy leaned his abdomen over the edge of the bath so it dug uncomfortably into his skin. He managed to stretch and pepper a few kisses to her stomach before he pushed up on his knees so he could check her legs and her ankle.

She had no other cuts or bruises and her right leg seemed fine which was good. But when he tried to touch her ankle, her leg jolted and spasmed away from his touch and she cried out. Her nails pierced into his bicep as she started to shake.

"I can't, it kills."

"Alright, then I'm gonna have to take you to hospital to get that checked, and make sure bubba's okay."

He pulled away from her ankle, not wanting to touch and assess it and cause any unnecessary pain. He needed to get her down to the hospital, she would need an X-ray and someone to see whether she had torn any ligaments or not. And he wanted to get the baby checked over, feeling movement was good, but there could still be complications or problems from a fall.

"I can't get up," (Y/n) whispered quietly while her eyes stayed focused on Tommy's bicep.

She didn't want him to have to lift her out the bath, but she didn't have much choice. She needed help and if she couldn't even touch her ankle, there was no way she was going to be able to stand up and put any weight on it either.

"That's why you've got three firefighters who can carry you if you fall." His lips formed a soft but nevertheless cheeky grin and he carefully held her wrists and looped her arms around the back of his neck. "Okay, let's get you out of here, honey."

(Y/n) leaned forward, burrowing her face into Tommy's shoulder. She didn't like the thought of any of the boys having to carry her anywhere, it made her feel like a burden.

She felt Tommy's arm curve around her waist and his other arm slid beneath her knees, but the feeling of his lips against her temple made (Y/n) relax into him. She tried not to tense too much while Tommy stood up, not huffing or straining at all when he lifted her up.

Her back was going to be sore after this and (Y/n) wouldn't be surprised if it seized up later. Her fingertips pressed into the back of Tommy's neck and she shivered as he smiled softly against her skin.

He took a few steps away from the bath and twisted to the side before he bent his knees and gently lowered (Y/n) down to sit on the toilet.

"I'll grab you some clothes, then we'll get you to the car, okay?"

When she nodded, Tommy gently cupped her chin, tilting her head back enough so he could attach his mouth to hers. His lips felt soft against the chapped edge of (Y/n)'s lower lip that she had picked and bitten out of anxious habit. And she knew Tommy sensed it when his tongue glided across her bottom lip and he pulled it between his teeth.

She could still feel his fingers on her skin when they pulled apart and he left the bathroom.

Her arms bound around her waist as a shiver tore down her spine. She feathered her hand up and down her stomach, feeling the baby practically coming to life, wriggling and kicking until (Y/n) wanted to be sick. She tilted her head down and closed her eyes for a few seconds.

The back of her head was still throbbing from where she caught it on the edge of the tub and (Y/n) was sure she had a lump forming beneath her hair. God, she hoped she hadn't broken her ankle. She prayed it was just a sprain or a pulled tendon because she really didn't want to be hobbling round with a pot on her ankle. Not now. She couldn't be put out like that, at least with a few pulled muscles or just a sprain, the most she would need was a foam boot for support and maybe some crutches if she was unlucky.

"Okay?" Tommy murmured when he walked back in and crouched down in front of her legs.

She lifted her head and managed a pained smile, whispering thank you when he handed her one of Eddie's shirts and her bra. She was careful not to touch the back of her head and she hummed when Tommy kissed her stomach before helping her drag the hem down over her bump.

Her hands moved to her thighs and her lips rolled together when Tommy tried to get her underwear and a pair of his pyjama shorts over her feet.

"Oow." She gripped his shoulder, trying to hold still but tears drenched down her face all over again and she shuddered and coughed when he pulled them up to her thighs.

"Sorry honey, sorry." He pecked her thighs and moved her hands to hold his shoulders so he could grip her hips.

Tommy murmured a soft 'one, two three' before he helped her up, waiting until (Y/n) was balanced on her right foot before he slid his fingertips down her thighs. He could feel her shivering beneath his touch and it made him smile. He dragged her underwear up and settled the shorts just beneath her bump.

With a kiss to her temple, Tommy shifted them round so he was stood behind (Y/n) with his chest flush against her back, allowing her to lean back on him for support.

She reached her hands down to hold onto Tommy's arms while her body tilted to the right, keeping her weight balanced on her right leg. Her left leg bent up behind her so her foot was hovering above the ground.

This wasn't going to be easy. (Y/n) took a deep breath and tried to move forward, leaning as little weight as possible onto her toes on her left foot, but it didn't work. Such a small weight made her knee buckle and had sparks shooting up her nerves, igniting her ankle and foot with a white hot pain that made her cringe.

"Honey…" Tommy drawled quietly, giving her hips a squeeze when he saw how much pain she was in.

He arched a brow and sighed when (Y/n) tried to shuffle and hop on her right foot. This was going to take hours if she was going to try and hop around like this. She was pregnant and clearly in pain, (Y/n) wasn't in any fit state to try hopping and unbalancing herself like this to try and be independent.

"I can do it-"

"Honey, if you think I'm gonna let you hop on one foot when you're nearly seven months pregnant, you can think again. Either I carry you or you damage your other ankle, now what's it gonna be?"

The gritty tone in Tommy's voice had (Y/n) shivering and she reached out for the door to steady herself before gingerly looking up at him over her shoulder. Maybe having some help might be a better idea. He was right, she was going to hurt herself and Tommy was going to pick her up whether she agreed with him or not.

She sighed and lowered her head down until her face was pressed into Tommy's chest. She turned in his arms again and pushed up into his chest, feeling his hands trail across her bum, going down until he hand a good grip on the back of her thighs.

He lifted her in one swoop, holding her waist on his torso with her legs sat on his hips, trying to be careful to keep her left leg extended so it didn't catch on anything. (Y/n) looped her arms tightly around Tommy's neck and tucked her face into his shoulder, nudging the collar of his shirt out the way so she could attach her lips to his neck.

"You know I can carry Evan, right? You and bubba are no match for him. He's heavy." Tommy spoke quietly into her hair as he made a beeline for the front door. He didn't want (Y/n) worrying or thinking he or the boys couldn't help her.

All three of them could lift her up no problem and Tommy would rather carry her than risk her hurting herself or the baby.

He made sure he had his phone and wallet in his back pocket before he grabbed his keys and walked out the front door, his girl safe in his arms, clinging to his chest.

***

"Hey babe, you both okay? You said to call." Eddie leaned his shoulders back against the locker, folding one arm over his chest and propping his foot up behind him on the locker.

He could feel his chest heaving and his throat was burning, desperate to go and get a drink. But just out of habit, he checked his phone when he got changed in the locker room. A missed call from (Y/n), two missed calls from Tommy and a text saying:

'Call me when you're on break please. X'

That was enough to get Eddie on edge and cause panic to surge through his chest and dwell in his stomach. It didn't sound good. Tommy never usually asked to call when they were on shift, it was usually Evan trying to ring either of them because he had some interesting fact or some exciting news he couldn't wait to explain.

"Yeah about that, babe… we're in the emergency room right now. There's been an accident."

Eddie felt like his heart had turned into a drum. Each heartbeat physically pained him and he could feel the blood pounding in his neck and rushing round his head and down to his gut.

He reached his hand out and smacked Evan's shoulder when his partner was about to walk past him. He watched Evan's head snap to the side and a frown pulled at his lips as he looked at Eddie, brows furrowed, questions burning in his eyes.

Walking forward, Evan slouched his left arm against the locker and leaned until his chest was pressing into Eddie's arm. He perched his chin on his partner's shoulder, mumbling a quiet "Who is it?" as his chin ticked towards the phone.

"Tommy, they're at the hospital." Eddie tried not to roll his eyes when Evan's head tilted up so fast he almost clocked Eddie in the nose. "Babe what happened?" He tried to listen closely for Tommy's reply but he huffed, locking his jaw when Evan grabbed the phone off him and set it on speaker.

"What's wrong? Are you both okay, babe what's going on?"

The nerves in Tommy's stomach swarmed like butterflies when he heard Evan's panicked, high tone come through the receiver.

"(Y/n) had a fall in the shower, her ankle's messed up so I brought her down here. She's had a scan, the baby's fine. They're gonna send her for an X-ray soon so don't go panicking-"

"We'll be there in fifteen minutes."

Leaning her head to the right, (Y/n) nuzzled her cheek against Tommy's arm and wrapped both hands around his bicep. She felt his other arm curve around the back of her shoulders and he leaned down to kiss the top of her head. But both of them looked up when the door opened and heavy footsteps pounded into the room.

Evan had his left hand tangled in Eddie's, tugging to the point he was about to dislocate his partner's shoulder. Eddie sighed when they were finally in the room and he didn't have to be dragged along by one of his boyfriends like a puppy on a leash. He shook his hand out at his side, trying to get some feeling back in his fingers.

"Are you okay?" The words tumbled past Evan's lips as his chest heaved and he finally let go of Eddie's hand so he could stand beside the bed.

He reached out for Tommy's shoulder and planted a quick kiss to his cheek, giving his shoulder a squeeze before he looked down at (Y/n). Her clothes were mix-matched, a plain white top and some dark purple shorts, both of which belonged to the boys. Her hair was tied up messily with damp strands hanging loose around her face.

The pain was evident in her eyes, but she looked calm considering they were all in the hospital. None of them liked being here, all four of them had bad experiences with hospitals.

"Dios, mi amor, how bad did you fall?" Eddie breathed through each word, frowning when he looked down at her ankles.

She was sat upright on the bed in the middle of the assessment cubicle with her left ankle swollen three times its usual size. Her foot was also enlarged, both legs were shaking and Eddie noticed a black cast boot in the corner of the room. He could only presume she had been for the X-ray and that there was clearly some damage done.

When Evan heard Eddie's words, he twisted to the right and looked down at (Y/n) ankle. His lips scrunched up, his nose twitched and he visibly shuddered at the sight. That didn't look good. That wasn't a good combination with a pregnancy.

"Is it broken?" He didn't want to ask and he wasn't sure he was going to like the answer. His puppy dog eyes looked up at Tommy rather than (Y/n) who still looked shaken up and he had a feeling if it was broken, (Y/n) would try and play it down.

"No, thank God. Torn ligament though, three weeks in a boot." Tommy pointed down towards the boot (Y/n) was going to be confined in for the next month.

He knew she wasn't going to be happy, and it wasn't going to be easy for her since she was pregnant and they all had Chris to look after. But it was much better than a break and needing a pot. At least the boot could be taken off, (Y/n) wouldn't need to wear it twenty four seven, it could come off when she was resting and she needed to be resting more than usual now.

(Y/n) dropped her eyes down to her hands no her lap and focused on dragging her nails up and down her thighs until she felt the bed creak on the left. Her gaze stayed intently on her hands until Eddie reached out to tangle their fingers together.

The way he looked at her made her stomach flip. One brow arched, a hint of a smile playing on his lips but it was so soft, so caring and understanding. He gave her hand a squeeze and grazed his fingertips over the back of her knuckles.

"How you feeling?"

"Sore." Her arms pinned to her sides and her head leaned to the side when Eddie tilted in close.

He let go of her hand so he could brush his fingertips along her jaw but when he went to cup the back of her head, (Y/n) couldn't help but wince. Her teeth sank down on her lower lip and she cringed, feeling his fingers brush over the tender spot at the back of her head.

"Did you hit your head too?" Concern dripped from his voice as he leaned over until his chest was less than an inch away from hers. (Y/n) could see and feel each breath Eddie took as he tried to examine her head without causing her any further discomfort.

"You didn't tell me that."

(Y/n) looked up at Tommy through her lashes, giving him her sweetest smile while he swatted his hand down against her thigh with a quiet tut.

"I'm okay, I just wanna go home… can we go?"

"Are we sure you and bubba are alright?" Evan leaned over, arching his lower back out into Tommy while he pecked (Y/n)'s lips and moved his hand to her stomach. He and Eddie hadn't been here when (Y/n) had her ultrasound, they wanted to know for sure and be certain that the baby was okay before they thought about taking (Y/n) home.

A shiver tore down Evan's spine when he felt a pair of hands on his shoulders and he grinned when Tommy's lips attached to the back of his neck. Right in the centre that acted as a button to turn Evan's nerves to jelly. He cast a glance over his shoulder while Tommy squeezed his shoulders and smiled.

"We're just waiting for discharge papers, the scan was clear. No bleeding and a strong heartbeat."

Tommy had been a little more than surprised that the scan had shown no problems at all. There was no bleeding, no fluids lost, the baby hadn't even moved and the placenta was in tact. Everything was fine when Tommy had been expecting some sort of problem, he thought a fall and a harsh landing like (Y/n) took would have jostled or unsettled the baby.

They were all lucky, no complications and thankfully no broken bones, all they needed was a doctor to sign them off and the four of them could head home.

"I guess this means no more showering alone, huh?" (Y/n) sat up a little straighter on the bed, watching with a blushing smile as Eddie reached for the boot to help get it on her ankle without too much discomfort.

The three of them shared a look before their eyes found their way back to the girl who held all their hearts in her hands.

"You kidding? This means you're not leaving our sights for the next month, baby girl."

[exhuastedpigeon]

Eddie's sitting closer to Buck than he's allowed himself since Buck came out - since Buck started dating Tommy. But Buck isn't dating Tommy anymore and Eddie came out to Buck fifteen minutes ago and now they're having conversation so intense that Eddie thinks he might need to go to an emergency therapy session after they're done. So Eddie's sitting closer to Buck than he's allowed himself to in over a month, but it feels too close and not close enough at the same time.

"What am I supposed to say Buck? That I lied when you asked me what I remembered about getting shot? That if I told you what I remembered you'd never be able to look at me the same way?"

"Eddie -" Buck starts, but Eddie cuts him off before he can say more.

"You want to know what I remember about that day? I got shot in the middle of the street on a sunny fucking morning in L.A. and as I was laying on the ground bleeding out I reached for you. I thought I was dying and all I wanted was to touch you one last time. Do you want me to tell you that I was bleeding out and all I could think was that I never told you how much I love you? Because it's true, it's true."

"W-why didn't you tell me after?" Buck sounds as broken as Eddie feels.

"I thought I did," Eddie says and he reaches over the empty space between them but doesn't close the gap. It's only a foot, maybe less, but it feels as wide of a gap as it had felt like while he was bleeding onto the pavement. "I gave you my son Buck. I gave you my heart."

The "oh" that leaves Buck's mouth sounds like a revelation and an accusation all at once. It sounds like 'you didn't tell me' and 'I didn't realize' and 'I wish I'd known sooner'.

But then Buck does close the gap between their hands, just like he had all those years ago while Eddie had lay dying on the street, saved by the same hands that cover Eddie's now. His blood forced to stay in his body with the same fingers that slot through Eddie's now.

Eddie lets out a breath he hadn't realize he was holding and his next inhale feels better than his first breath after leaving that well. It feels like breathing for the first time.

"I'm still in love with you," Eddie tells him, because it's the only thing unsaid between them. It's the only thing left to say.

"Yeah?" Buck's eyes are wet and Eddie realizes his are too.

"Yeah."

"Me too - I-I love you too. I think I have for a really long time actually. I just didn't - didn't realize what that feeling was."

[aplaceinme]

Buck reaches the top of the stairs and looks around. His eyes zero in on Eddie, sitting on the couch, doing something with his phone.

Looking down at his hand, Buck nods in decision and confidently walks over to Eddie. 

“Here,” Buck says, thrusting his hand out to Eddie.

“Jesus!” Eddie yelps, startled. “Buck, what the hell, man?”

“Just take this,” Buck says firmly, waving the thing he is holding. 

Eddie looks at him unimpressed, the familiar expression that says ‘why do I put up with you?’, but then he grabs the ticket. 

“This is a Lakers ticket,” Eddie says breathlessly. 

“Yeah, I know,” Buck says dejectedly, looking forlornly at the ticket. 

“Why are you giving me this? Not that I’m complaining!” 

Buck sits heavily on the armchair and tries to make himself look smaller. “Tommy gave it to me… it was a gift for our six-month anniversary.”

“Oh,” Eddie mouths the word and looks down at the ticket in apprehension. “Ok, that doesn’t really explain why you are giving it to me, though.” 

“I’m not giving it to you, or well, not really. I just need you to give it back to Tommy.” 

“Give it back?” Eddie asks confused. “Wait, he only got one ticket?” 

“No, of course not. He got two but… I- I’m keeping the other as a sort of, as a souvenir or memory or whatever,” Buck shrugs his shoulders, feeling a blush creeping up his neck. 

“Seriously? You’re not going?”

“I don’t want to go alone! The sear next to me will be empty and I just, I just know that I wouldn’t be able to enjoy it.” 

“If only you didn’t have a friend who likes basketball…” Eddie says drily. 

Sighing, Buck replies, “I know but it would be weird going with you instead of him… Just give it to him and tell him he can go!” 

“Are you sure?”

“I- Yeah, yeah, I’m sure,” Buck says, trying to sound confident but he is sure he doesn’t quite manage it. 

“Alright, buddy. I will do it,” Eddie replies, giving him that small smile filled with sympathy that he has been giving him since the break-up.

—

It’s the day of the game and Buck is lying down on his bed trying to forget about it. However, his eyes keep going to the little box under his dresser. After one too many times glancing at the box and then at the ceiling, Buck huffs and moves over to grab it. 

Buck sits down heavily on the bed and carefully opens the box. As soon as he sees the content, his stomach twists and he starts to get teary-eyed. He hadn’t planned to have a box, it sort of just happened. It started when Buck returned home from their coffee date and found the receipt for their coffee in his wallet. It had been an impulsive decision to save it instead of throwing it away. Soon after that, Buck started to keep other things: like the ticket for the first movie they saw together, the coaster of one of the bars they went to, a copy of the recipe of the first dish they cooked together, etc. 

After the break-up, Buck added to the box the pictures he had of both of them and the ticket for the Lakers game. He grabs it and turns it around, this way and that way. Eddie told him that Tommy didn’t want to accept the other ticket back and that he had tried to convince Eddie to go with Buck. In the end, he kept it but implied that he wasn’t going to go. 

Looking down at his watch, Buck realizes that he still has time to make it. He contemplates it for a couple of minutes and then he thinks fuck it and decides to go. 

—

“Hi, excuse me, sorry, sorry, excuse me,” Buck says as he shimmies through the seats. 

Once he finally reaches his empty seat, he looks up and freezes. 

“Tommy,” Buck breathes out, feeling as if his heart is about to explode from his chest. 

“Ev- Buck,” Tommy says, just as surprised. 

They don’t move, they just stay there standing, looking at each other like a deer caught in the headlights. 

“Fucking sit down, what the hell are you guys doing?” A man sitting in the row above yells at them. 

They both mumble their apologies and sit down, with their backs ramrod straight, and looking ahead. 

 “I’m sorry, I will go,” Tommy says after a while of awkward silence. “Eddie told me you weren’t going to come so I just decided at the last minute to come and.. Anyway, I will go.”

“No,” Buck says loudly, grabbing onto Tommy’s arm. 

Buck looks at his hand and exhales shakily. He swears he felt a shiver running through his spine as soon as he touched Tommy. His hands, his body, all of him has missed him terribly. 

“Sorry,” Buck lets go of the arm, even though it pains him to do so. “Stay, you don’t have to go. The game is about to start, just, please stay.” 

Tommy searches Buck’s face and, after a few agonizing seconds, he nods and sits more comfortably. 

Sighing in relief, Buck turns back to the court and tries to reassure himself that this is ok. Everything will be fine. Just two exes, sitting next to each other, watching a basketball game…

—

If you were to ask Buck how the game is going, what the score is, who is winning, and which player was the best at the moment, he would be unable to answer. He has no idea what has been happening, all he knows is that even though they are not touching, he can feel Tommy’s arm and leg right next to his. 

Even though he is surrounded by the smell of popcorn, hot dogs, and many other things, Buck swears that the only thing he can smell is Tommy’s oud cologne. All he wants to do is  turn to Tommy and nuzzle his face against his neck to be able to breathe in that smell. He has missed that smell terribly, his pillows and sheets had long ago lost any traces of it. 

Suddenly, he hears Tommy mutter, “Oh, shit.” 

Buck looks over quickly, fearing that Tommy is feeling ill or that something bad happened, but he sees him looking up at something. Following his gaze, he finds that they are on the stadium screens. The Kiss Cam has chosen them. 

Glancing back at Tommy, they make eye contact but make no other move. People around him cheer and yell at them to just do it. 

This might be the last time I get to feel his lips again… the last time I kiss him , Buck thinks. 

It is that thought that makes him shrug his shoulders sheepishly at Tommy, as if saying, “I’m down if you are.” 

Tommy glances at Buck’s lips and nods. They both lean in at the same time and when their lips touch, Buck feels as if he’s coming home. Kissing Tommy again is like getting a breath of fresh air. 

It isn’t until he hears someone yelling to get a room that Buck pulls away reluctantly. Tommy has his eyes closed and his mouth is still open a little bit. Buck wants to lean in and kiss him again. 

Once Tommy opens his eyes, Buck sees that there are tears in them. 

“I’m sorry… I’m sorry. I- I need to go,” Tommy says in a choked-up voice. 

Buck stays still, watching as, once again, Tommy walks away from him, from his life, from them. 

“Not again,” Buck says under his breath. 

Determined, he stands up and starts to follow him. 

“Sorry, sorry, excuse me.”

“You go get him, honey,” A woman sitting in the row above winks at him. 

Blushing, Buck nods and replies, “Thanks! I will!”

Once he is out of the stands, Buck starts to run, wanting to catch up to Tommy. As he reaches the part of the facilities where the concession stands and bathrooms are, he runs straight into someone. 

“Fuck!” Tommy says.

“Ouch!” “Buck replies. 

They look at each other and laugh awkwardly.

“Why were you returning? Did you forget something?” Buck asks, suddenly nervous and forgetting everything he wants to say to him. 

“Yeah, yeah, I forgot something,” Tommy tells him before pulling Buck close and kissing him even more passionately than before. 

After breaking the kiss, Tommy says breathlessly, “I’m sorry for running away… both times. I just got so scared about my feelings for you, and your feelings for me, and how you can so easily break me into pieces.” 

“I’m sorry too!” Buck tells him while cupping Tommy’s cheek. “I should have fought for you, I should have gone after you.” 

“No, no,” Tommy shakes his head vehemently. “I walked away so I was the one who had to return to you.”

Buck kisses him again, a short, sweet and tender kiss.

“I’m trying to be better, Evan. I’m going to work on not letting fear control me because I- I, well… I love you.”

Smiling brightly and feeling as if everything is right in the world, Buck replies, “I love you too… just as you are. And I will be there for you, and I will help you to not run away again when you get scared, ok?”

“Ok… god, I love you so much,” Tommy says, chuckling. 

“I love you too,” Buck replies again while kissing Tommy’s nose, cheeks, and mouth. 

[buddie-buddie]

hi <3 how about bucktommy and "i can't belive this"

“I can’t believe this,” Buck groans, dropping his head to Tommy’s lap and stretching out, his feet hanging over the arm of the couch. 

It’s late morning by now, maybe even early afternoon. Buck had stumbled into bed last night with his head spinning, steadied by Tommy’s arm across his waist and his warm, familiar weight behind him. He’d slept like a rock until the pounding in his head woke him up a few minutes ago, his throat dry and his eyes hot as his hangover roared to life. His heart fluttered when he mustered up the courage to open his eyes all the way and saw the glass of water and two ibuprofen on the nightstand, both of which he downed before he let his feet hit the floor. 

He made his way into the bathroom, where his heart fluttered again as he realized he was wearing a t-shirt and sweatpants he had no recollection of putting on last night, both of which are just a little bit too big to be his own. He brushed his teeth with the toothbrush that showed up in the bathroom the same day Tommy gave him a spare key to his house. It still makes him smile every time he sees it in the cup beside the sink, right next to Tommy’s own. 

Buck found Tommy in the kitchen, dropping a bagel into the toaster and humming to himself under his breath. Buck slid up behind him, snaking his arms around Tommy’s waist and resting his chin on Tommy’s shoulder. Tommy had turned his head to press a kiss to the top of Buck’s head, murmuring “G’morning,” into his curls as his hands came to cover Buck’s own. They stayed like that for a minute, content to just hold each other in the silence of the morning, until the bagel popped up and Tommy ushered Buck into one of the stools at the small island so he could coax half the bagel and a few sips of coffee into him. 

They wound up in the living room after that, Buck’s need to be horizontal far greater than his need for the rest of the breakfast Tommy so sweetly prepared for him. Tommy shut the overhead lights off on the way in, just before he stopped to pull the curtains shut on his way to the couch. Buck’s chest ached beneath the pleasant weight of being loved like this. It still does now, as his head rests in Tommy’s lap and he announces that he can’t believe how hungover he is. 

“And yet I have no trouble believing it,” Tommy says dryly. 

Buck pouts. “I didn’t even drink that much.”

Tommy scoffs. Even when he does, it’s warm and fond and it doesn’t make Buck feel bad at all. In fact, it only makes him smile. “Sure you didn’t.”

Tommy strokes Buck’s cheek gently, his fingers trailing up until they reach the soft curls atop his head, loose and messy from a night of deep sleep. He runs a hand through Buck’s hair, soft and gentle in the same way Maddie always did when Buck was a kid and he didn’t feel well. 

He’s not six years old with the flu this time, and the hand in his hair isn’t that of his sister, but Buck still feels every bit as adored as he did back then. He could cry if he thinks about it too hard. 

“C’mon, I didn’t!”

“I could agree with you but then we’d both be wrong.” 

In Buck’s defense, the do-over bachelor party had been Chimney’s idea. Chimney’s idea that Buck took to immediately– he practically had the karaoke room booked before his next breath– but Chimney’s idea all the same. It was born out of Chim feeling so badly about missing the first one, despite everyone’s repeated insistence he wasn’t allowed to apologize for contracting a debilitating brain infection that nearly took his life. Though Buck likes to think that maybe, deep down, Chim wasn’t so opposed to the initial one as much as he led them to believe. 

And also in Buck’s defense, it was much more tame this time around. No hotel rooms were trashed, no doors were kicked in, and Eddie managed to keep his shirt on and intact the entire time. There was tequila, though. A lot of tequila. So much tequila that Buck can still taste it when he hiccups. Chim and Maddie were both there and Tommy wasn’t on call this time around, all of which instantly made it infinitely better than their first attempt. It was so much fun, the hangover’s worth it. 

Mostly. 

Buck sighs, closing his eyes as Tommy’s fingers card through his hair. “I feel like I got hit by a truck.”

“Well, you would know,” Tommy deadpans. 

Buck grins, shoving Tommy playfully. “Not hit. Crushed.”

Tommy hums. “Semantics.”

Buck’s grin is so wide he thinks it might split his face in two. He can’t help it, though. He just… he loves this. Loves Tommy. Loves that he has someone who doesn’t shy away from laughing with him about things like this, someone who doesn’t treat him with kid gloves. Someone who takes him home after a night out and puts his pajamas on when he’s too drunk to do it himself. Someone who holds him when he has the spins and kisses the spot behind his ear and murmurs “Love you,” just before sleep pulls him under. Someone who leaves water and ibuprofen on the nightstand and who runs his fingers through his hair and turns off the big light and closes the curtains for him.

He doesn’t remember falling asleep, but when he wakes up again, his head is still in Tommy’s lap, only now there’s a pillow beneath it. “Feel any better?” Tommy asks, his voice raspy and thick with sleep. Buck smiles at the thought of Tommy falling asleep beneath him. 

“No,” he says honestly. The pounding in his head is unrelenting, and he swears he can smell tequila in the layer of sweat that’s cooling beneath his now-damp t-shirt. “I think I’m dying. This is what death feels like.” 

He can feel Tommy’s laugh rumbling in his chest, warm and familiar. “This is a hangover in your thirties, baby.” 

“Same thing,” Buck mumbles, his eyes fluttering shut as Tommy dips his head down to press a kiss to the top of his head. As he drifts back to sleep, Tommy’s quiet laugh is the last thing he hears before sleep takes him.

prompt game

[homerforsure]

Saw the episode. Ascended to a higher plane. Wrote a small Coda that is as messy as my brain is right now. Bone Apple Tea.

"Heyyyyyy Buck!" Eddie answers the phone with a drawn out salutation that proves Tommy was not lying about him being sent away from the hospital with the good drugs. Or, not lying about the prescription, but about Eddie actually taking them. It wasn't so long ago that Eddie would take enough medicine to avoid being in agony, but never quite enough to actually feel relief. He wouldn't do that for Tommy, however close they are. It's something that Eddie's doing for himself. Buck's stomach was a swarm of butterflies three seconds ago, but that and the floaty happy way Eddie still says his name, has him smiling again in his kitchen.

"Hey Eddie. I, um, I'm sorry to call so late. I just wanted to see how- how you were doing."

"Eh, I'll miss a shift or two. But Doc says I'll be ready to go for playoffs," Eddie answers.

Guilt twists through him, harsh and acidic and Buck says, "Well I'm glad to hear that. They say the team doesn't have a chance without you and your, um, sky dunk." Eddie laughs, giggles really, in reply and Buck says, "I'm sorry, Eddie. I don't know why I did that. I mean- I- I know why. I was jealous of you and- and Tommy-" Buck's heart flips as he says his name and he's afraid the kiss is going to come flying out of his mouth and down the phone line- "But I never wanted you to get hurt like that."

"You wanted me to get hurt different?" Eddie asks, still laughing, but Buck feels stricken.

"No! I- maybe. I don't know what I wanted. I lost my mind for a little bit."

"You were jealous," Eddie repeats.

"Yeah, I was."

A long sigh and Eddie says, "I'm sorry."

"You don't have anything to be sorry for. I was the asshole. I could have- I knocked you out of your shoe."

"Do you have my shoe?" Eddie asks, more focused than he has been the rest of the conversation. Buck can hear him sitting up on the couch.

"Uh, no. No, I gave it to Chim. He's gonna give it to you when he sees you. And probably make about 50 Cinderella jokes."

"Right. He texted me. I remember."

"I'm sure he'll bring it by sooner if you need it. Or he could give it to Tommy." The flush is there again, hot down the back of his neck. Buck doesn't know how he's supposed to do this. Where is he supposed to keep all of this heat and possibility while he waits for Saturday.

"You don't like him."

"Who? Chim? He's growing on me."

"Tommy," Eddie answers in a tone that says duh. "You can't even say his name normal."

Of course Eddie can hear that. Of course he assumes that's the problem after the way Buck has acted since the moment they met the man. He thanks god that he decided to call instead of driving across town and checking on Eddie in person. His cheeks and his ears are burning like fire.

"He can tell, you know. We both can. He said he's going to come talk to you. Gave him your address. Wants to apologize." Eddie must have settled back down on the couch. He sounds sleepier, his sentences getting shorter and more breathy.

"He did. He um. He came by. We talked it out. I told him you guys didn't have anything to apologize for. I was the one who made it weird."

"So weird," Eddie agrees and Buck laughs. "You guys should be friends. He's awesome and you're awesome and we can all hang out together and it would be..."

"Awesome," Buck finishes. He thinks it might be.

"I forgot you don't know that."

"Know what?" Buck asks, when Eddie's mumble doesn't come with any additional clarification. "Eddie?"

"Hmm?"

"Never mind. Hey, you should get up and go to your bed. Sleeping on that couch is not going to help your ankle heal any faster."

"Tommy said that."

"Tommy's right. Come on."

Eddie groans as he sits up, cursing at Buck in what he thinks is under his breath, and asks, "You talked to Tommy?"

"Yeah, he just left."

"And we're okay? You like him now?"

Buck's blood roars through his ears and he wants to throw up and start laughing all at the same time. "Yeah, I think I do."

"Good."

He breathes through the sudden headrush as Eddie grumbles and hops his way off the couch and down the hall. Buck knows where he's finding his handholds by the echo off the walls and he winces when Eddie takes a misstep and swears again. He thinks for a second that he should be there, that he should help Eddie to bed, but Eddie would never let him. Buck wonders if Tommy would let him. He's wondering about so much now and he never did before.

"Hey, Eds?" The question is out before Buck realizes he's asking it, small and vulnerable, and he wants to claw it back and swallow it down before Eddie notices, but he doesn't have a chance.

"Yeah?"

Tommy kissed me. I want him to do it again.

"No, nothing. Just. I'm sorry. I was out of line."

"You were," Eddie answers. "And I forgive you."

Something settles in Buck then. A piece that had still been sitting off kilter and jamming painfully under his ribs. He takes a deep breath, and joy washes fully over him, calming and centering. He doesn't ask the question again though. He thinks he wants to keep this tiny, glowing treasure to himself. At least for a little while.

"Bring me my shoe back and we'll call it even."

Buck laughs, letting the sound ring out through his apartment and he can hear Eddie smiling on the other end of the phone.