#cfwc throwbacks

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Countdown to Halloweens Past

Give your old Halloween creations some love with our special Halloween Throwback event.

Tag @choicesficwriterscreations on any of your old Choices Halloween fics and art, and we'll reblog them and add them to a special Halloween Throwback masterlist.

Submit as many throwbacks as you like between now and October 31st.

All submissions will be reblogged within 24 hours. Tumblr tags can be wonky. If you don't see the reblog, DM the URL to @liaromancewriter or send an ask to this blog.

[choicesficwriterscreations]

CFWC Halloween Throwbacks 2024

✒️ = Fanfic | 📱 = Text Fics/Edits | 🎨 = Fanart Ⓜ️ = Mature Content 18+ | 🔥 = Explicit/NSFW 18+ 🏳️‍🌈 = LGBTQIA+

BLADES OF LIGHT AND SHADOW

Trick or Treat 🎨 | Multiple Characters - @exotic-inquiry C: @lilyoffandoms

CRIMES OF PASSION

Tricks and Treat ✒️ | M!Trystan Thorne x F!MC - @jerzwriter

NIGHTBOUND

The Haunted House ✒️ | Nik Ryder x F!MC - @ladylamrian

OPEN HEART

A Quite Carrick Halloween ✒️ | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

A Very Scary Halloween ✒️ | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Haunting ✒️ | Ethan Ramsey, Tobias Carrick - @jerzwriter

Hilltop Haunts ✒️ | Sienna Trinh x M!OC - @liaromancewriter

Hunger Pains ✒️ | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @cariantha

Masquerade ✒️🔥 | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

Max & Si’s Halloween Bash 📱 | Sienna Trinh x M!OC - @liaromancewriter

On The Spot ✒️🎨 | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Pumpkin Love ✒️ | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

This Little Bunny ✒️ | Sienna Trinh x M!OC - @liaromancewriter

Tricky Treats ✒️ | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @jerzwriter

What Could Ever Go Wrong? ✒️ | Ethan Ramsey x F!OC, Tobias Carrick - @coffeeheartaddict2

THE ROYAL ROMANCE

Decamped ✒️Ⓜ | Liam Rys x F!MC - @nestledonthaveone

Trick or ... Treat ✒️ | Liam Rys x F!OC - @kristinamae093

WAKE THE DEAD

It's Witchcraft ✒️🎨 | Eli Sipes x F!MC - @jerzwriter

New Things: Traditions, Hopes & Fears ✒️ | Eli Sipes x F!MC - @jerzwriter

[liaromancewriter]

For @choicesficwriterscreations Throwbacks

My Christmas Wish

Premise: Cassie and Ethan spend their first Christmas together as a couple, but the day doesn’t go exactly as planned. Set during third year of residency.

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff Words: 2,045

A/N: Submission for @choicesdecemberchallenge2021 Day 25 prompt “Christmas”.

The luxurious apartment with views of the Boston cityscape was slowly coming alive as light from the rising sun penetrated the dark clouds outside the treated glass. It was early morning on Christmas Day and the snow from last week’s nor’easter was already a distant memory as rain pushed it ways across the state.

Cassie Valentine lay on her side in the big bed she shared with her lover, watching clouds drift across the blustery sky as strong winds swirled outside, picking up dust and debris. Rooftops wet from last night’s rain sparkled like crystals under the weak sunshine.

Keep reading

[choicesficwriterscreations]

CFWC Announcement:

THROWBACK THURSDAY:

Effective immediately we will be changing how we manage our Throwback Thursday event.

Every Thursday, you can reblog one previously posted fic or artwork.

Creation must be a minimum of three months ago (original posting).

Tag @choicesficwriterscreations, and use #CFWC Throwbacks and we will reblog within 48 hours.

There will no longer be a masterlist for Throwback Fics/Creations.

All of our reblogs will be tagged #CFWC Throwbacks for searchability.

If you have any questions, please send us an ask.

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics # 173

Open Heart

Full Circle | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @lucy-268

Perfect Model | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

This Christmas | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @jerzwriter

A Very Lahela Christmas: Kanakaloka | Bryce Lahela; Keiki Lahela - @storyofmychoices

The Royal Romance

Hinge: New Beginnings (Christmas in Valtoria) | Drake Walker x MC x Liam Rys - @angelasscribbles

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics #168

Blades of Light and Shadow

A Bit of Fun | Mal Volari x F!Human!MC - @storyofmychoices

Open Heart

Last Night on Earth | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

Seclusion | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

Tricky Treats | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @jerzwriter

The Royal Romance

Pop’s Place; Order Up | (eventual) Drake Walker x MC - @bebepac

[kristinamae093]

Throwback since it's almost Halloween!

And I'm searching for inspiration to finish the next chapter.

@choicesficwriterscreations

Trick or ... Treat?

Everything else can be found here.

Book/Universe - TRR

Pairing - Liam x OC (Kyla) (not much is going on here though lol).

Summary - Constantine and Kyla enjoy Halloween... at Liam's expense.

Word Count - 2500

Warnings - language, Constantine shenanigains.

A/N 1 - I am participating in @choicesflashfics with prompt number 3, which will appear in bold. I don't think this qualifies for any of the other various Halloween prompts (not the ones I looked at, anyway.)

A/N 2 - Thanks for giving me a little confidence boost about this @ao719! 🥹🫶

Please excuse any errors.

Most characters belong to Pixelberry.

Liam awoke after a restless night’s sleep, tentatively opening one eye to search the area. Constantine enjoyed messing with Liam any day of the year, but a few held special significance for mischief; April Fool’s Day and Halloween. Much to Liam’s dismay, the date was October 31st. 

He enjoyed the 'holiday'; the royal family spent a few hours where they stood atop the front steps of the palace passing out candy. It was a tradition Liam intended to start alone, but Constantine and Regina both liked the idea and wanted to engage. He didn’t dress up but still enjoyed seeing all the costumes the public wore. 

However, he never knew what the day could hold for him. He could handle most of it, but the part he didn’t enjoy was the jump scares; perhaps it was a bit of PTSD, but it made Liam’s soul vacate his body every single time. Constantine took this with a grain of salt; at least on those two days a year, Liam could expect nothing but chaos. 

With utmost caution, Liam sat up. He patted around the mattress to ensure there wasn’t something hidden in his sheets, but there wasn’t. He got up and made his way to the bathroom to relieve himself, and while he did, a brief flicker of relief shot through him; perhaps this year would be different, given the circumstances had changed. Last year Constantine wasn’t sick, but now he didn’t have nearly as much energy. Liam hoped that just this once — that would work to his advantage. 

Liam groggily made his way into the shower. He turned the water on with a yawn and closed his eyes as the soothing heat cascaded down his chest and legs. He submerged his head and ran his palms through his hair; when he opened his eyes to reach for his shampoo, he realized the water was — red. 

“WHAT THE FUCK?!” Liam shouted as he stumbled backward. His back slammed against the wall as he tried to get away. He scrambled out of the shower, leaving the water running behind him. 

When he made it out, Liam was in such a frenzy that he slipped; in a moment of desperation, he grabbed onto a shelf but ended up taking that tumbling down with him. 

A moment later, a frantic knock sounded on the bathroom door. “Sir? Are you alright?” Bastien hollered. 

Liam quickly reached for a towel to cover himself and answered, “NO! Get in here!” 

Bastien came barreling inside; his eyes widened as he saw Liam lying on the floor, surrounded by a pool of crimson liquid. He immediately rushed over and crouched beside him. “What happened? Was someone in here?”

“The shower!” 

“... Pardon?” 

Liam narrowed his eyes. “The fucking shower, Bastien!”

Bastien cautiously approached the glass door with one hand on his holstered weapon. He glanced inside and noticed the colored water coating the floor, but also noted the discoloration of the tub; Bastien knew immediately this substance was not blood. 

He reached in and turned the knobs off; as he did, a sweet aroma filled his senses — fruit punch. Bastien took a wild guess regarding what happened, and as he detached the shower head and popped it open, he realized he was correct. 

Bastien exited the shower, laughing to himself. Liam paced the area but grew irritated at Bastien’s lack of panic. “What did you find? Should we call an exorcist?”

Bastien chuckled. “No, sir. It’s not blood, I assure you.” He held the opened shower head to show Liam the inside. “It would appear as if someone packed this full of a red powder; if I had to take a guess, I would say it’s Kool-Aid.” 

“Kool-Aid?” Liam mimicked in disbelief. “... You’re joking.” 

Bastien nodded, trying to keep his composure as he scanned Liam’s appearance. “I’m afraid not, sir. And unfortunately — it stains.” He motioned to the mirror behind Liam. 

Liam turned around with furrowed brows, but his mouth fell open as he took in his appearance; his face and chest had a noticeable red tint, and his hair a pink hue. “Oh dear God…” 

“It’s not that bad, sir…” 

“What do you mean not that bad?” Liam mocked. “I look like a sick crab! What the hell am I going to do?! I’m supposed to be in a meeting in less than an hour!”

“Perhaps you could tell them it’s a sunburn?” 

Liam narrowed his eyes and let out a huff of air; judging from how his morning started, it was going to be a long day, indeed. 

Further in the afternoon, Constantine and Kyla were finishing the last touches on their concluding prank. Knowing that everything they did throughout the day was constructed for Liam, Kyla felt a sense of guilt. However, she didn’t have the heart to tell Constantine no; when his eyes lit up, she found it hard to resist his child-like elation. She only hoped Liam would forgive her, and appreciate that she kept things much more minimal than Constantine originally intended.

Constantine encouraged Kyla to dress up; the only requirement was that she couldn’t wear scrubs. She looked online and came across a cute Santa outfit and decided that would be her selection; complete with festive tights and black ankle boots, she was the holliest, jolliest person in Cordonia. 

Constantine opted for something more — unconventional for a former monarch. Since the opportunity presented itself, he wanted to be a cowboy; he wore jeans, a flannel shirt, the wide-brimmed hat, and carried a lasso. He’d never dressed up before, but considering this would be his last Halloween, he wanted to experience the full effect. 

“Perfect! Now, stay there and wait, boy,” Constantine ordered Trent. 

Trent gave Constantine an unsure expression. “Are you sure about this?”

“Is it your job to do as you’re told?” 

“Yes, but–” 

“No more malarky; you’re already in costume, and you will not waste all of Kyla’s hard work. Wait until Liam comes, then—” Constantine paused for dramatic effect. “—you know what to do.”

Trent gave a weak salute, nearly knocking his hat off. Constantine slowly drove his scooter away, Kyla strolling beside him.  “You did a marvelous job today, dear. I have to tell you, this stuff is much easier with you around.”

Kyla dipped into an exaggerated curtsy. “It’s my pleasure to serve.” 

Constantine howled with laughter. “I suppose we should give Liam his treat.” 

Kyla shuddered. “You’re seriously doing this?” 

“What? It’s not poison; he’ll be fine.” Constantine waved her off. “It’s funny, and if I can figure out how to work the camcorder on my cellular device, I intend to videotape everything to show Leo; maybe I’ll upload it on that clock webpage the kids use.” 

Kyla furrowed her brows. “... You mean — Tik-Tok?” 

“Yes! That’s the one! Come along, now; it’s time to begin our last operation of the day.” Given that this would likely be his last Halloween, Constantine wanted to go out with a bang. The dynamic duo concocted the perfect scheme to scare Liam’s socks off. Constantine handled the set-up, Kyla advising the punch-line; together they produced a glorious mix of pandemonium and humor — for Constantine, anyway. 

Constantine and Kyla made their way to Liam’s office with their — treat. Constantine knocked on the door with a smirk; as he did, he handed Kyla the box and whispered, “You should probably be the one to give him these. Tell him you made them yourself and make it believable.” 

Kyla’s eyes widened. “What?! Why me?!“ 

“He will know if it comes from me; you need to do it. Don’t worry! It’s Halloween — we’re exempt from punishment today.” 

“I don’t think that’s how that works–” Kyla was cut off as the door crept open. As it did, neither she nor Constantine could control the shrieks of laughter that escaped them at Liam’s appearance; the evidence of their opening prank shined brightly, contrasted to the natural hue of his skin they were used to. 

“Yeah, yeah,” Liam grumbled. “Laugh it up. Thanks to you, I’ve had three meetings looking like this today.” He spoke to his father. 

“I don’t know what you mean, son.” Constantine feigned innocence. 

Liam grasped Constantine’s hand, flipping it over to look at his palm and noted the tinges of discoloration. “So… you running around red-handed is just a coincidence?” 

Constantine pulled his hand away. “No, it’s a part of the costume; cow people work hard — these are farming hands.” 

“What about the fake mice in my fridge? Or the trash bag stuffed to look like a body? The clown stickers on my mirrors? Or the air horn under my chair?” Liam walked behind his desk and pushed down, a loud honk thundering through the room. 

“Okay, you caught me. But it’s Halloween, Liam.” Constantine gave Liam sad, pleading eyes. 

“You know the expression is trick or treat, not trick or trick–“ 

“I’m aware, William.” Constantine subtly slid his eyes over to Kyla. “If only someone had a treat for you…” 

Kyla realized that was her cue; she presented the box to Liam with the warmest smile she could force, praying he didn’t see her trembling hands. “Actually, I have something for you…” 

“You do?” Liam sought with an arched brow. 

“Yeah,” Kyla returned as she opened the container. “It’s chocolate — balls… I made them myself and even used white chocolate since you prefer vanilla…” 

Liam alternated his gaze between the offered delicacy and Kyla; he couldn’t decide if he could trust her or not at that moment. Any other day he would, hands down; today was different and as much as it pained him to admit, he knew Constantine couldn’t have pulled the day’s shenanigans off on his own. 

He slowly reached into the box and grasped a treat; he experimentally sniffed it first, noting the heavenly aroma invading his nostrils. As he took in Kyla’s innocent smile, Liam shrugged and popped it into his mouth; when he bit down, what he tasted was not sweet as expected, but disgusting. 

“Ugh,” Liam shuddered with a scrunched face. “Wha tha hec is tha?“ He got out as he tried his hardest not to jostle — whatever it was inside his mouth.  

Kyla gave him an apologetic expression. “It’s, uh…” 

“Chocolate-covered brussel sprouts!” Constantine proudly exclaimed as he held up his phone, centered on Liam. “I know how much you’ve always loved your veggies. Oh, and say hello to Leo, son.” 

Liam gagged; he lunged for the trash can and opened his mouth, the mangled ball rolling out with ease. He smacked his lips together, trying to rid himself of the awful taste, but it wouldn’t vacate. When he stood, he used his hands to scrape at his tongue, but that didn’t help either. In a moment of desperation he bolted to the bar cart, only to find it empty. He groaned, but by doing so elevated the horrible sensation. 

Liam rushed out of the room, intent on reaching a bathroom or somewhere with some water. As his thunderous steps made it around the corner, a presence suddenly jumped out at him. It cackled and grasped his arms, sending Liam into an instant state of panic; he only saw their green flesh, the large nose, and glowing red eyes. 

Liam leaned on his body’s natural reaction; with a high-pitched wail, his fist connected with the attacker’s throat, sending them tumbling backward. As the person hit the ground Liam stood over them glaring down, prepared to strike again; they waved one hand, the other cradling the spot of impact. 

“S-sir… Please–” Trent spat out through wheezes. 

“Trent?!” Liam gasped with wide eyes. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t—” The sound of Constantine’s laughter interrupted him. “Dad, this is not funny!”

“Oh, calm down. It’s just Trent; the boy could use some roughing up, anyway.” Constantine answered from behind his phone. 

“Put that down!” 

Constantine rolled his eyes but complied. “Fine; I suppose the good part is over, anyway.” 

Liam released a deep, steadying breath to keep his composure. It’s nearly over, he thought to himself. “Trent, go visit the physician and take the rest of the day off… And tomorrow.” He softly spoke as he helped him stand. Trent nodded, still cradling his jugular, but made his leave. 

An extended period of silence passed, but Constantine finally broke it. “Trick or treat?” Liam growled and opened his mouth to retort, but Constantine quickly added, “Not to put a fine point on it, but this will most likely be my last Halloween…” 

Liam sighed and his eyes softened; all day, he’d fixated on his worries for what was to come, but Constantine was right. He felt guilty for not embracing the day as he should have, instead of wishing the time away. 

Constantine noticed Liam’s expression shift and felt instant remorse. “I apologize, Liam, I didn’t mean to–” 

“I know what you were trying to do, but — you’re right. I hadn’t thought about it like that, and now I feel terrible for not spending the day with you.”

“But if you were with me, who would the target be?” Constantine expressed, earning him a playful eye roll from Liam. “Listen, life must continue. I’m dying; technically, so are you. Every breath you take is one step closer to the grave. Just because I don’t have as far to go changes nothing. I refuse to spend my time fixated on what’s coming, and I surely don’t want you to, either.”

Liam sharply sniffed and nonchalantly cleared his throat. “Right…” 

“But — given that it’s a holiday, perhaps you could end your day early; hang out with Kyla and me until the candy gifting begins.” 

“Does that mean the pranks will stop?”

“Against you, maybe.” 

Liam smiled. “I’d like that.” 

“But you must be in costume to be seen with us; sorry, it’s a rule.” 

Liam furrowed his brow. “You realize I’m the King now, right?”

“You sure like to remind me of that, son.” Constantine laughed. “I’ll go to the boutique and pick out an outfit for you.” 

“The chances of me wearing whatever you’re thinking are–” 

“Aaaand he’s gone,” Kyla spoke as Constantine sped away on his scooter. 

Liam shook his head. “I’m almost afraid to even think about what he’s going to find.” 

“Should’ve come prepared like the rest of us.” Kyla playfully elbowed his side. 

“Trueché…“ The pair shared a laugh, but as it died down Liam added, "You look cute." 

Kyla brushed a strand of hair behind her ear and ducked her head, trying to hide her flushed cheeks. "Thank you." 

"You're welcome." He smiled at her. “I need to thank you…” 

“For?”

“Making my father's time special. I’m figuring out he didn’t act alone today, but I’m glad he’s got someone to be the Thelma to his Louise.” 

“I’m happy to do it; I love it when he gets excited.” 

“I do too.” 

“He’s taught me a lot about how to relax and enjoy the little things; to make every second count.” 

Liam stared at Kyla with a grin, warmth blossoming in his chest. “Me too.” 

They locked eyes but Constantine quickly re-appeared. "Oh, Li-am…"

"I don't like that tone… or that face you're making…"

"I found you a costume." Constantine answered as he held a garment up. 

Liam stared into his basket and saw the remaining pieces of the getup and shook his head. "I'm not wearing that." 

"Oh, come on! A cowboy needs a steed to wrangle, son! Have you not seen a western film?"

"But I don't want to be your horse!" Liam protested. "What if I wanted to be a superhero or something?" 

Constantine pursed his lip with pleading eyes. "Liam…" 

Liam held his stare for merely a moment before he rolled his eyes. "Fine." 

Constantine's face lit like a Christmas tree but he was quick to shove the garments at Liam, insisting he go get dressed. As Liam disappeared, Constantine gave Kyla a knowing look. "... What did I tell you?"

"I can not believe that worked." 

Constantine snickered. "I never planned on being a horseless cowboy."

"He probably would've done it anyway if you asked him…"

Constantine snorted. "Where's the fun in that?"

HCTS tags - @ao719 @queenrileyrose @angelasscribbles @tessa-liam @kingliam2019 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @bascmve01 @busywoman @belencha77 @mysticalfangirl @nestledonthaveone @lovingchoices14 @lunaseasblog @malblk21 @sfb123 @emersyn-in-cordonia @walkerdrakewalker @tinkie1973 @queenmiarys @choicesflashfics @eadanga

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics #175

Open Heart

Beautiful Stranger | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

Just a Little Faith: A Christmas Story | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Midnight | Bryce Lahela x F!OC - @storyofmychoices

Right Place, Right Moment | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

Under the Mistletoe | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @trappedinfanfiction

You Make It Feel Like Christmas | Bryce Lahela x F!MC - @lucy-268

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics #158

Open Heart

Back for More | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

First Day Back | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @lucy-268

It's a Match | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

Unblemished | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Will You? | Bryce Lahela x F!OC - @storyofmychoices

The Royal Romance

All the Stars; Decision (Part 1) | Liam Rys x MC - @ao719

Fast Forward; Something's Afoot | Liam Rys x MC - @bebepac

First Impressions: Max. A Bad Romance One Shot | Liam Rys x MC x Maxwell Beaumont - @angelasscribbles

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics #169

Blades of Light and Shadow

Mal's Adventures in Babysitting | Mal Volari x F!Human!OC - @storyofmychoices

Open Heart

Diagnostic Principles Heist | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

A Quite Carrick Halloween | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

A Year of Kisses: May | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics #172

Blades of Light and Shadow

Piece of Pie | Mal Volari x F!human!MC - @storyofmychoices

Open Heart

Little Ones | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

The Perfect Thanksgiving | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Rainy Days and Mondays | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @lucy-268

The Royal Romance

Thankful | Liam Rys x OC - @ao719

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics #165

Blades of Light and Shadow

A Proposal (of Sorts) | Mal Volari x Daenarya x F!Human!MC - @storyofmychoices

Stories | Mal Volari x Daenarya x F!Human!MC - @storyofmychoices

Open Heart

Good Interruption | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @coffeeheartaddict2

A Hawaiian Prank | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

In Your Heart | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

Their Plus One | Tobias Carrick x F!MC x Ethan Ramsey - @jerzwriter

The Unexpected Valentine | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

The Royal Romance

The King's Punishment | Liam Rys x Maxwell Beaumont; MC x Drake Walker x F!MC; MC x Liam Rys x Maxwell Beaumont - @angelasscribbles

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics #171

Open Heart

The Compatibility Hypothesis | Sienna Trinh x M!OC - @liaromancewriter

Domesticity | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

Madison | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

No More "I Love You's" | Ethan Ramsey x MC - @dr-colossal-pita

Post Rendezvous | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

A Year of Kisses: November | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

[jerzwriter]

Nothing makes me feel like a failure more than seeing I have yet to write part 2 of the Tobias/Casey Val Day fic I wrote LAST YEAR lol

I suck people. I suck.

Anyway, this is my submission for @choicesficwriterscreations Throwbacks to convince me to write the 2nd part before Valentine's Day 2024.

No One Else... Part 1 of 2

Book:                   Open Heart (Book 3 Timeline)

Pairing:                Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey)

Featuring: Ethan Ramsey, Sienna Trinh, etc.

Rating:                 Teen +

Category:            Fluffish

Warnings: Maybe some cursing

Summary:   Misunderstandings, changes in plans, a blast from the past, and secret admirers threaten to turn Tobias & Caseye's first second Valentine's Day upside down.

Part One: An unexpected message disrupts Tobias & Casey's blissful morning together. But just when Tobias assumes all is well, there's another surprise... and then another.

Words: 2,092

A/N: I'm not sure where this came from - but it did. It seems angsty at first, but it really won't be, it's going to erupt into chaos - but that can be comical. lol Part one centers mostly around Tobias & Casey, but others (namely Ethan and Sienna) will be getting pulled in toward the end and will show up more in Part 2. I hope you enjoy this! @choices-february2023 - Day 14 - Valentine's Day / @choicesficwriterscreations Valentine Event / @choicesmonthlychallenge To Be... Trust Me" "I'm Yrs Or... Call me Not to Be... Not Happening - @choicesholidays Prompt #1 This isn't what I imagined a relationship would be...

Tobias & Casey Masterlist My Full Masterlist

Tobias hurried into his office, quickly shutting the door behind him. Alone at last, he wasn’t giving anyone the opportunity to sneak in. Collapsing into his soft leather chair, he took a deep breath and let it out slowly. This had not been the morning he ordered.

He and his beautiful in every way girlfriend had been official for nearly a year now, and, to the amazement of everyone who knew him before, the man had never been happier. But this morning, their normally unflappable relationship was… well… not “flapped”… but experiencing more tension than they were accustomed to.

The day started well, nothing out of the ordinary. Tobias groggily hit snooze when his alarm went off. But instead of cursing it like he used to, he rolled over with a satisfied smile. Waking up to Casey was something he never took for granted. So even when the alarm went off the second time, he didn't fret. After kissing her on the forehead he shuffled into the bathroom.

A stretch and a long yawn got his system stirring, then his morning routine began. Ever the multitasker, he hit play on his voicemail before brushing his teeth in the bathroom mirror. Message number one:

….Hello, Dr. Tanaka here. I was hoping we could move our 2 PM consult on Alex Porter up a bit in light of his test results. Let me know when you arrive at the hospital, and we’ll take it from there…

That’s when he caught a glimpse of Casey creeping toward him in the mirror. Her eyes still half-shut, she lovingly wrapped her arms around his waist and nuzzled her sleepy head on his shoulder. He rinsed quickly, eager to properly kiss her good morning. Their lips were just inches away when the next message began to play.

…Tobias Carrick?....

Just two words were all it took. Casey felt the hair on the back of her neck stand up, and Tobias wasn't far behind.

 …It is so good to hear your voice! Even if it’s just your message. It’s Beverly, love, it’s been so long you have probably forgotten what I sound like….

The voice had a playful, seductive quality that was impossible to miss.  Casey, who typically required at least two hours and twice that amount of coffee to be fully conscious, woke up in a flash.

… It was so hard to track you down! When I think of you and hard in the same sentence, it's not usually about finding your phone number...

As Beverly giggled, Casey reached over to shut off the phone, but Tobias grabbed her wrist to stop her.

“No,” he insisted. “I am not hiding anything from you; so let's listen together.”

… I’m offended that you didn’t give your new number to me! Luckily, I can think of a dozen things you can do to make it up to me. I’m going to the convention at the Cleveland Clinic, and I'm hoping you'll be there this year, too. If so, I have a luxury suite… hot tub, an enormous bed, and a beautiful view… you can certainly bunk up with me and help me put them to good use. I miss you, Tobias. Call me!...

Casey stared quietly at the floor when the message ended, and Tobias reached over to shut off his phone.

“Casey, I didn’t reach out to her," he started, his voice both calming and filled with concern. "I’m only going to contact her to let her know I’m happily off the market…”

“I know,” she mumbled, still looking away. Tobias gently lifted her chin to face him again.

“I don’t know how she got my new number….”

“I know,” Casey muttered. “I know… and I’m not… I’m not mad at you.”

Tobias knew her too well; she may not be mad… but she was something, and he hated being part of anything that brought her even the smallest bit of worry.

“Talk to me, baby. What are you feeling?"

“It’s just…” she let out a deep sigh. “It’s been a while since we’ve had something like this happen. Your Boston following knows you're with me now, so it's leveled off. But your national… or is it international?”

“Casey….” he trailed.

“Who was she? You’ve told me about a lot of your former dalliances, but  I don’t recall a Beverly….”

“Because she wasn’t significant. We met at a conference… a long time ago, and… on occasion,” he stumbled. “If we found ourselves in the same place, at the same time….”

Casey held up her hand, signaling for him to stop. “I get it… and you don’t owe me an explanation. Look,” She said, taking his face in her hands, “No one enjoys hearing a partner's former lover attempting to seduce them. But, T… we’re both adults, and we have histories."

“You’re not upset?” he asked. “I know in the past, things like this bothered you...."

“Mmm-hmm,” she interrupted. “In the past. I know what we are, and I trust you. Just take care of letting her know you'll be in Boston... and you're all mine!"

“And then I’m blocking her number,” he smiled.

“Good…” Casey half-smiled. “I’m not going to let this ruin our first Valentine’s Day.”

“It’s our second!” He insisted.

“No, it’s not,” she grinned. “It'll be fine, but baby... I hope there are no more calls!”

“If there are, I’ll toss my phone into the fireplace.”

“That might be a bit extreme,” she chuckeled, placing a peck on his cheek. Then she was off to get ready for work.

~~~~~

Everything was fine. That's what Tobias told himself as they drove to work. At least it seemed fine. He didn’t let go of her hand the entire trip, which wasn’t uncommon, but the lingering silence was. His mind raced back to the early days of their relationship. Back then, Casey was coping with a lot. Her insecurities and dealing with his … rep… weren't the easiest things for her to deal with. But they moved beyond that, and now,  they were titanium. Right? That wouldn’t happen again. So why was his heart racing a little faster?

It didn’t matter, he convinced himself. Tomorrow was Valentine’s Day, their second… though she insisted it was their first. Whatever the number, he already planned on making his girl feel extra special, but now? Now he was really going to go all out.

He parked in his spot and proceeded to stare out the windshield.  

“Tobias?” Casey asked waving her hand in front of his face “We’re here.”

He startled a bit, breaking out of the fog he was lost in. 

“Sorry, I was a little….”

“You were driving me to work in this condition?” She laughed.

“I knew exactly what I was doing. Come on,” he said, taking her hand, “Let’s get to our meeting before Ramsey has our heads.”

~~~~~

Like the morning, the meeting started off well. Harper brought coffee… good coffee, even better than that stuff Ethan liked to brag about so much. And Ethan was in a good mood, much better than usual. Tobias made a mental note to get an answer about why out of him after when they were alone. Cases were discussed, and they were about to leave when…

“Just one more item before we adjourn,” Ethan stated. “Tobias, I’m going to need you to fill in for me at the conference in Cleveland.”

“OK, boss,” he started, then a realization struck him, and he furrowed his brow. “Wait.. the Cleveland conference? Aren't you presenting on the Alton research?”

“Yes,” Ethan smiled, almost smugly. “But no need to tailspin, Carrick. You’re up to the task or I wouldn’t have asked you.”

Tobias sneered in his friend's direction. “I can handle it with my eyes closed, wiseass! But it's tomorrow!”

“I know it’s last minute, but it can’t be avoided. The Board is holding an emergency meeting, and I’ve been told my presence is not optional. It’s only three days, Tobias, you can manage….”

“But it’s Valentine’s Day,” Tobias blurted, earning a little snort from Harper.

“I’m sorry,” she said, clearing her throat. “It’s just Tobias Carrick caring about Valentine’s Day? I never thought I’d live to see the day!”

“He has had a personal growth metamorphosis within the past few years,” Ethan teased.

Tobias looked across the way at Casey. She smiled supportively, but once again, her eyes didn’t mirror that smile. Then he heard Beverly’s voice in his head:

I’m going to the convention at the Cleveland Clinic, and I was wondering if you’d be there this year?

Aw, fuck! He thought, in fact, he may have said it out loud; he wasn’t sure. What he was sure of was he was on Ethan the second Harper and Casey left the room. He spent the next fifteen minutes unsuccessfully attempting to convince Ethan to send Harper in his stead.

“Harper wasn’t involved in the Alton case!” Ethan reiterated, his voice now bordering on shouting. “What’s with you? In the past, you would have been salivating at the chance to take this opportunity away from me. Now, you’re letting a Hallmark holiday do this to you?”

“I know,” Tobias rolled his eyes, “It’s just that it’s our first, and….”

Ethan raised an eyebrow, “According to Casey, it’s your first. According to you, it’s your second.”

Tobias didn’t appreciate the cocky look on his friend's face, even though he knew he was right. 

“Come on, Tobias. Casey is a grown woman and a professional. I’m sure she’ll be fine pushing your celebration off a few days.”

“You’re right,” Tobias sighed, walking toward the door. “Oh, and Ethan?”

“Yes?”

“I’m going to kick ass in that presentation. You’ll never be invited to speak there again!”

“Keep dreaming, Carrick," Ethan yelled as Tobias made his way down the hall.

~~~~~

Feeling a bit better, the familiar smile on his face and spring in his step were back. They were present as he greeted every passerby as he made his way to his office. But they weren't there for long. Passing a patient's room, he heard Casey and Sienna’s voices.

“I’m sure it doesn’t mean anything,” Sienna fretted. “Don’t let your mind wander.”

“I know that, Sienna,” Casey replied. “It’s just… after all the progress, I don’t want to go back to….”

“And, chances are you won’t,” Sienna assured. “You just need to be patient… let this play out.”

“I know….” Casey bemoaned. “But if it happens again, I just don’t think could take it. I'd have to move on from this."

“Look!” Sienna ordered. “You’re putting the cart before the horse. I know how much this means to you, but… so far, there is no indication that you have anything to worry about. Don’t break your heart if you don’t have to, Case. OK?”

Tobias’s blood went cold. Heartbreak? Can’t do this anymore? Was she this upset? And if so, why was she withholding this from him?

“Damn it!” He muttered, making haste to get to his office. What could he do to convince Casey that she had nothing to worry about? She was the love of his life and his heart sank at the thought of her going through this again. He thought they were past this. He thought she was secure in their love, and if she wasn’t… after all this time…. where did this leave them?

He slammed the door behind him, then sunk into his chair. It had been a hell of a morning, and he was taking a moment to relish the solitude and calm.

He would have to talk to her… to make her understand. But his mind was also on the holiday that he'd now be missing. He thought of ways to shower her with gifts, even if he wasn't there. He'd leave her notes… everywhere… text her all day… FaceTime at night… he'd make sure it was still special… as long as no more bullshit occurred.

That’s when it caught his eye. It looked benign enough, a little red envelope with a heart on his desk. A smile tugged at his lips. She must have dropped it off after their meeting; they had been together until then. Maybe he was blowing this out of proportion; perhaps this was all in his mind. If she was dropping off an early Valentine, things couldn't be that bad. He slid his fingers under the envelope flap and removed the note inside.

 “Roses are red, violets are blue, and on Valentine’s Day, the only thing I’m going to do … is you.”

A puff of air escaped his nose, and his hands fell to his side. Adorable. Cute. Sexy. At least it would have been… if it was Casey’s handwriting, but it wasn't.

A loud knock on the door startled him.

“Hey, Tobias, open up. I need to talk to you.”

His eyes screwed shut. The day had to get better.

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[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics #161

Blades of Light and Shadow

A Kiss | Mal Volari x F!Human!MC - @storyofmychoices

Open Heart

The Boyfriend Excuse | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @cariantha

Observation | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

Summer Romance | Etha Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Throwback Fics #167

Blades of Light and Shadows

Unexpected | Mal Volari x F!Human!MC - @storyofmychoices

Open Heart

Dancing Between The Unknown | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

Haunting | Ethan Ramsey; Tobias Carrick - @jerzwriter

Reflections and Renewals | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

This Life; In all Honesty, chapter 11/13 | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @coffeeheartaddict2

Crossover - The Royal Romance x Open Heart

The Meet; And Then...There Were Two. | Liam Rys x ?; Bryce Lahela - @bebepac