#cfwc valentines 2023

[choicesficwriterscreations]

CFWC Valentine's Day 2023

Event Dates: Sun., Feb. 5th - Sat., Feb. 18th Event Rules & Guidelines below break

Hi Everyone! We're keeping this simple!

Prompts are suggestions only. We hope they'll inspire you, but please submit any Valentine's Day related fic to the event.

All submissions must be newly written fanfics for Pixelberry Choices stories, and they must contain at least one character (can be MC) from the canon story.

Val Day submitted to other fandom events can be submitted here as well.

Submit fics between 12:00 AM on Sunday, February 5th and 11: 59 PM on Saturday, February 18th.

Mention @choicesficwriterscreations in your post and tag #cfwc valentine 2023

All fics must follow blog rules and guidelines found on the navigation post.

We will be selecting March's Writer of the Month from the participants in this event.

Eligibility:

Must submit a fic for this event.

Must meet all WOTM eligibility requirements.

Must tag @choicesficwriterscreations and #cfwc valentines 2023

Anyone who has not been selected for WotM or Meet the Writer in the past 18 months is eligible to be selected.

If the first person selected is not eligible to be WotM because they have been selected within the prior 18-months, we will allow their MC / OC to be featured as March's MC-OCotM, and we will select another name from this event's participants to be March's WotM.

Winners will be selected on Sunday, February 19th.

After the wheel is spun, a mod will reach out to the winner(s) by DM.

The winner(s) has 3-days from the date the message is sent to reply to the mod and accept the prize. If they do not reply to the mod within that 3-day period, a new name will be selected.

[tessa-liam]

Smoke and Mirrors

Smoke and Mirrors 

Chapter 4: As the Smoke Clears 

Book: The Royal Romance Finale AU 

Series Premise: Hidden in the shadows, poised to challenge the status quo are enemies of the state. The loyalties and honesty of family and of friends will be tested. ‘Keep your friends close, your enemies closer.’ 

Catch up: Smoke and Mirrors Masterlist  

Main Pairing: Liam Rys x F!MC Riley Brooks-Rys, OTP ‘LiRi’ 

2nd Pairings: Leo Rys x Amalas, Drake Walker x F!OC Delaney Leigh 

All characters belong to Pixelberry, except Delaney Leigh and Officer Cossoy 

Rating: M🔞*Series Warnings: NSFW material, sexual innuendo, adult language/swearing/drinking 

Category: Alternate Universe/on-going series/angst/fluff 

Words: 1821, Read: 8 minutes 

Chapter 4: As the Smoke Clears 

Chapter Summary: Celebrating Valentine’s Day of lovers, family, and/or friends. The search for Lena continues in Monterisso. Not Beta'd-please excuse all errors. 

A/N1: @choices-february2023 @lucy-268 #choicesfebruary2023 #choices monthly challenge Day18- Romance|Seafood|Hanging by a Moment by Lifehouse – Music Inspiration 

A/N2: @choicesficwriterscreations #cfwc valentine 2023 Prompt, Here and Now – OTP celebrates with their kids 

A/N3: @choicesflashfics Week #20, Prompt #3 - “Are you flirting or starting a fight?” 

A/N4: @peonierose – Thank you for the picture/prompt 

Royal Chambers, Cordonian Palace 

It was an early Tuesday morning and Riley was taking full advantage of the terrace overlooking the gardens. Sipping her coffee, she relished her quiet time. 

It’s Valentine’s Day.  

...and today, her focus will be on her family. 

Starting with baking home-made chocolate chip cookies that were now cooling on the counter. Promising to help Ellie with her Valentine gift for her father, she made one of the cookies into a giant heart for her to create and decorate her gift for Liam. The royal kitchen prepared 3 colors of royal icing for the princess to help her complete her decorating project. 

For Liam, Riley has a surprise romantic dinner planned on the royal yacht tonight. A surf and turf feast with all his favorite dishes, prepared by the chef, cruising under the moonlight. 

They had been planning a trip to Monterisso since finding out about the possible missing sister/fugitive, ‘Lena.’ The timing could not be more perfect for sailing, rather than flying to the island. Leo was already there with Amalas; Leo being the King’s representative involved with the search led by Interpol. 

“Mm mm... what have we got here?” The sound of Liam’s deep groan caught her attention. 

Riley turned to look inside the kitchen and saw him take a bite into a cookie. 

“Hey, you,” she walked into the kitchen, smiling. 

“Is this for me?” He grinned, staring at the huge heart she made. 

“Yes! Yes, it is.” Riley smiled wide at his expression. Shaking her head, “it is part of Ellie’s Valentine gift for you. Do not touch, not yet!” 

“Ellie wants to surprise you at lunch after your meeting by personally delivering it to you in your study.” 

“This is my favorite kind of cookie," he said, reaching to grab another before turning back to her. “I’ll take care of these. You go finish your breakfast.”  

“Ha, ha, your majesty,” Riley chuckled. Don’t take too many cookies back to your study with you.” 

“Oh, and love.... bonne saint valentin a l’amour de ma vie.” Liam lifted her hand to kiss and then twirled her around. Riley reached up and wrapped her arms around his neck, and whispered, “buon san valentino all’amore della mia vita,” followed by a deep kiss. 

*** 

Leigh Townhouse, Capital 

“Happy Valentine’s Day, Drake!” Delaney rolled underneath the bed sheets to her side to face her boyfriend coming out of the bathroom after his shower. His eyes were closed, and she smiled at how cute he looked with his wet hair sticking up all over his head and a towel wrapped around his waist. He opened his eyes and gave her a grin.  

Walking to the bed, he bent down to whisper, “hey baby,” wrapping his arms around her and kissing her lips. Delaney smiled up at him as she laid there feeling safe and secure with the man she loved. 

“I love you,” she told him as he kissed her again. 

Drake sighed happily, “I love you too. Happy Valentine’s Day.” 

He pulled himself away from her and headed towards the closet. 

“Wait, what are you doing?” Delaney asked playfully as she watched him pull out his boxers from the drawer. 

“Getting dressed....” 

“Well, I thought that since you came out of the shower wearing nothing but your towel,” Delaney replied teasingly.  

Drake smiled back at her as he sat down on the bed next to her. He reached under the sheet to pull her bottom close to him. “And how do you know I wasn’t wearing anything?” 

Delaney blushed. “Umm...well...” She looked away, embarrassed. 

“Well, what?” he asked again, playing along with her. 

“Well, you know I didn’t see much of you last night.” 

Drake laughed. “I’m sure there was plenty to see.” 

He looked down at Delaney's expression and she did not look happy. “Are you flirting or starting a fight?”  

“A little bit of both?” Delaney replied frustrated. 

“Drake, it's the best answer I can give you right now. 

It is Valentine's Day! I thought you could stay home today with me, but instead you are going out.” 

“Baby, after the council meeting, I am coming right back here with your Valentine gift.” Drake replied with a grin. 

*** 

King’s Study, Cordonian Palace 

“Are you ready, princess?” Riley asked Ellie as they walked hand in hand down the hallway to deliver Liam’s valentine gift. 

As they approached his door, the royal guards bowed. 

Ellie raised her hand and tapped. When she heard her father's voice say, “come in,” a royal guard opened the door for Ellie and Riley. 

“Daddy!” Ellie rushed in and went around his desk. Liam picked her up and placed her on his knee.  

“Well, hello princess,” he said, smiling at her. 

“Oh Daddy, Happy Vawindines Day! I brought you a present.” Ellie handed him the giant heart-shaped cookie she had personally decorated. 

Liam kissed her cheek, “Happy Valentine’s Day, my little love. Thank you so much, will you help me eat it?” 

Ellie nodded excitedly as he placed the giant cookie on his desk. 

Riley was watching the exchange between the two of them as she sat down on the sofa. 

Liam looked over at Riley and winked. 

“Princess, I have Valentine's Day presents for you and mommy, too.” 

Her eyes lit up and she clapped her hands. 

“Tonight, after your lesson, we are going on a boat. That is where I put them. And guess where we are going on that boat?” 

Ellie furrowed her brows, and asked, “where, Daddy?” 

“To visit Micaela in Monterisso.” 

*** 

Royal Yacht, enroute to Monterisso 

After getting Ellie settled into her bed for the night, Riley changed into her evening cocktail dress. 

As the servers placed platters of crab legs, scallops, and calamari on the table, the chef set down individual plates of steak and lobster for each.

The music played softly in her ears as she walked out onto the deck after dinner. Standing there, she felt like she was floating on air. A smile spread across her face when she felt Liam’s hand gently stroke her bare back. 

“You look so beautiful tonight, my Queen,” he whispered, as he leaned forward for a kiss. 

“Thank you,” Riley deepened the kiss. 

“Come dance with me,” he said, taking her hand. 

As they moved effortlessly to the music, Delaney watched from the window, sitting at the dining table inside. It was the most romantic setting she had ever seen. 

“What are you thinking about?” Drake asked her, but he was fairly sure he already knew. 

“It must be hard being married to a King. But Riley makes it look so easy.” 

“Well, Riley is an incredibly unique woman.” Drake said in reverence. 

Delaney raised an eyebrow, waiting for Drake to continue. 

Riley noticed Delaney watching them, as the song ended. 

“Let us join Drake and Delaney inside, we still have dessert to eat.” Riley smiled as Liam kissed her hand. 

“After you, love,” Liam gently turned Riley to go inside. 

As Liam went inside to sit down at the dining table, Riley met with the chef to begin dessert service. 

“Delaney, I hope you are enjoying yourself.” Liam enquired. 

“I am. I have never been on a yacht before.” 

“Li, this is a 5-star resort on water. Thank you for including Delaney and I on this cruise.” 

“Oh yes, especially on Valentine’s Day,” Delaney exclaims. 

Riley smiled. “No problem, we are happy you could join us.” 

As the servers set their desserts in front of them, Liam squeezed Riley’s hand. “My love, you always indulge me.” 

Delaney took her first bite of the baklava, “this is delicious.” 

Drake grins at Liam and lifts his glass to propose a toast. 

“To great food and good friends.” 

*** 

As the evening progressed, Liam and Drake moved to the outside deck to discuss the game plan on the search for Lena.  

While Riley and Delaney went to the lounge area of the yacht. 

Both women being American, shared that commonality, but moreover, Riley wanted Delaney to feel comfortable in Cordonia. Since Liam and Drake are best friends, Delaney will be included with Royal court functions that Drake attends. 

“So, how did you meet Drake?” Riley asked, as she sipped her infused sparkling water. 

“We were in college together, about 10 years ago, at the University of Houston. I really liked him, so when he left to come back here, I tried to stay in contact, but I lost touch with him.” Delaney explained. 

“That must have been difficult for you. How did you eventually find him?” Riley asked. 

“I went to student services and found his forwarding address information. I kept trying to get in contact with him hoping he would remember me. He finally called me one day and it turned out that we reconnected after all those years.” Delaney sighed. 

“Yes, you were here at Halloween last Fall.” Riley smiled. 

Delaney grinned, “yes.... he was so sweet!” 

“Now, let’s talk about you. Drake told me that you had some very bad experiences when you came to Cordonia. 

Riley laughed, “where do I begin?” 

Drake murmured to Liam, “should I be worried?” Liam replied, “man, you are so screwed.” His laugh bellowed and Riley looked up to him with a smirk, hearing his comment. 

As Liam and Drake walked inside the yacht, they both took notice of the blossoming friendship of Riley and Delaney.  

*** 

Translations:  “bonne saint valentin a l’amour de ma vie.” 

~ Happy Valentine’s Day to the love of my life en francais 

“buon san valentino all’amore della mia vita”  

~ Happy Valentine’s Day to the love of my life, in Italiano 

***

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Leo & Amalas @twinkleallnight

[liaromancewriter]

Valentine Memories

Premise: When Alan finds a box of childhood memorabilia, Cassie teases Ethan about his romantic past.

Book: Open Heart (post series) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: General. Fluff. Words: 1,625

A/N: This is based on an ask I received from @jerzwriter. Submission for @choicesmonthlychallenge To Be prompt "XOXO"; @choicesholidays Valentine's Day prompt "Be my valentine"; @choices-february2023, Day 14 prompt "Valentine's Day"; @choicesficwriterscreations Valentine's Day event.

It was a bright blue winter day with freshly fallen snow dotting the flat green landscape around Interstate 90. They left Boston late enough to avoid the weekend crowds heading off to ski lodges in the vicinity but early enough to make a day of it in Providence.

When the car turned toward I-95, the south-easterly sun’s harsh rays bounced off the windshield. Briefly blinded, Cassie Valentine pulled the visor down and silently cursed.

She meant to grab her sunglasses before leaving the apartment, but she’d overslept and had been in a rush. The last thing she wanted was for Ethan to give her a look that implied he hadn’t truly expected her to be ready on time.

The delectable Dr. Ramsey could be a real troll on occasion.

“Here.”

Cassie looked over to see Ethan holding out a pair of sunglasses with dark plastic lenses. His own were parked on the bridge of his nose, hiding his laser-blue eyes. So she wondered where these had come from. She arched one brow as she put them on, relieved when her eyes no longer squinted against the sun.

“You never seem to have a pair on you when you need them,” he explained, reading her thoughts perfectly. “I picked up a couple of cheap drugstore ones to keep in the car.”

Annoyed at his superior tone, Cassie harrumphed and folded her arms, only to unfold them seconds later as she chuckled at the implication. This wasn’t the first time she’d forgotten her glasses, so she really couldn’t blame Ethan.

“You think you’re so clever, don’t you?” She shook her head in amusement.

“Top of the class, Valentine,” he drawled.

Cassie rolled her eyes and turned up the volume instead, singing along to the chorus of The Black Keys’ Wild Child.

They drove in companionable silence towards his childhood home for Ethan’s monthly visit to see his father. Cassie had insisted on coming even though she had made plans to go couch shopping with Bryce. Her friend understood the last-minute notice.

The more their relationship progressed, the more she was determined to make Ethan stop compartmentalizing their lives. Visiting Alan was an important part, especially since Ethan was heartily welcomed into her own family.

As they neared Providence, Ethan exited the interstate and joined traffic winding through the city streets. The scenery outside gradually changed from gentrified neighborhoods to middle-class subdivisions until he turned down a familiar road.

This part of town was older, the streets lined with modest houses, all a bit worse for wear, snow covering pitched roofs and small yards. Cassie spied four young boys in a small park up ahead, throwing snowballs at each other, their laughter ringing through the air.

“Did you ever do that?” she asked, tilting her head to indicate the boys.

Ethan followed her gaze, and his face softened in nostalgia. “As much as possible. You can’t live in New England and not have snowball fights.”

As they neared his father’s house, he slowed the car and parked along the curb.

“My friends and I would pray for a snow day,” Ethan continued, switching off the ignition, his eyes still on the boys. “And when we got one, we spent all day outside building a snow fort and engaging in all-out war. We had complicated hand signals and code words, the whole shebang.”

“Max and I always save the first snowball fight for Tony. Team Double Trouble, you know.” She grinned wickedly. “If he can beat us, he can join a twin activity. Otherwise, it’s Twin Time, Butt Out.”

She laughed in recollection as they exited the car. “Tony hasn’t managed to beat us yet, much to his chagrin.”

Alan must have been watching out for them. Cassie saw him come outside on the porch, rubbing his arms against the cold temperatures. Ethan walked around the front of the car to join her on the sidewalk, taking her hand in his.

“Welcome, welcome,” Alan greeted as they walked up the short steps.

Father and son hugged briefly while Cassie took Alan’s outstretched hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.

“Let’s get out of the cold,” Alan said, waving his hand to have her precede him, with Ethan bringing up the rear. “Had a feeling you’d be near, so I put on a fresh pot of coffee.”

Cassie and Ethan took off their winter boots inside the door, hung up their winter coats in the hallway closet and joined Alan in the living room.

The scent of brewed coffee and lemon furniture polish hung in the air, making Cassie’s nose twitch in appreciation. The furniture was old but well cared for, and there wasn’t a speck of dust anywhere.

She always liked how Ethan’s place was neat and tidy. It looked like this was another trait he had inherited from his father.

Soon they were enjoying their coffee and cookies. Alan caught them up on his happenings, and they did the same. When the talk turned to Ethan’s relatives, Cassie leaned her head on Ethan’s shoulder and settled in to enjoy this glimpse into his life.

A short while later, Alan got up from his seat, reached behind the armchair and lifted a cardboard box off the floor. Ethan’s name was scrawled on the outside in black marker.

“I was cleaning out the attic and came upon this box of your old stuff,” he said, setting the box down on the coffee table. “Thought you might want to go through it, son, and see if there’s anything you want to take back to Boston.”

Brows furrowed, Ethan lifted the flaps slowly. “I’m sure it’s nothing worth keeping.”

“Not so fast, babe,” Cassie cut in, reaching in to grab a thick folder. “Ethan’s report cards, grades one to three,” she read out loud. “Pay dirt.”

Ethan tried to grab the folder, but she simply moved her hand out of reach. She quickly scanned a couple of report cards and nodded in confirmation. She looked over the top of the folder, her green eyes sparkling with laughter.

“Gold stars? Not surprising,” she teased, sticking her tongue out at him. “But it says here, ‘Highly intelligent. Needs to think before speaking.’”

“It does not say that,” he protested, swallowing back the rest when she shoved the report card in front of his face, the words clearly written in red pen. “Oh.”

“Never had to worry about his grades,” Alan told Cassie, smiling as his eyes tracked between her and Ethan. “However, I can’t tell you how many parent-teacher meetings ended with, ‘Mr. Ramsey, your son is a gifted student, but he needs to learn to show more respect to his fellow classmates and teachers.’”

Alan mimicked the last, making Ethan utter “Christ!” under his breath and pinch the bridge of his nose.

“Yeah…,” Cassie mused, tapping one finger against her lips as she watched Ethan with a considering look. “That sounds about right. He might be Chief Ramsey now, but his people skills haven’t improved.”

Alan winked conspiratorially at Cassie and picked up the tray with their used coffee cups and plates to carry into the kitchen.

Ethan snatched the file out of her hands and shoved it back inside the box a little too forcefully, causing a thick paper pink card to pop up from the folds. He groaned when Cassie’s eyes lit up, and she tugged the card out before he could stop her.

“Did you make this Valentine’s Day card in class?” Cassie teased, turning the card over, glitter shimmering on her fingertips. “How come you never made me one?”

“You don’t celebrate the thing, remember?” he said, shoving his fingers through his hair. “Certainly makes my life easier, having a girlfriend that doesn’t want the fuss or muss.”

“Au contraire, Dr. Ramsey,” Cassie scoffed, flipping the card open. “I expect both the fuss and muss, just not on the Day That Shall Remain Nameless. You have three hundred and sixty-four days—three sixty-five during a Leap Year—to spoil me rotten.”

She guffawed when she read the message inscribed in purple pen, more glittery hearts sprinkled inside. “Dear Ethan. Please be my valentine. I heart you. So much. XOXO. Melanie.”

Cassie looked up from the card and shared a teasing glance with Alan, who walked back into the room and sat down in the armchair.

She schooled her features and threw Ethan a disgruntled look. “You’ve been holding out on me, babe. Who’s this floozy Melanie? And why does she think she can put the moves on my man?”

“The hell if I know,” Ethan growled. “I don’t even know what grade this is from.”

Cassie examined the card. “Based on the style, glitter usage and mix of cursive and block writing, third or fourth grade would be my guess.”

“Another thing Ethan was never short of,” Alan added, nodding sagely, chin propped on the heel of his hand. “The stories I could tell you about girls dropping by the house, calling at all hours, trying to get his attention. There are probably a few Valentine’s Day cards tucked inside that box. ”

“Not helping, Dad.” Agitated, Ethan shoved off the couch and towered over her, hands on his hips. “And what the hell, Cassie? I didn’t even know you then!”

Ethan knew he’d just been had when Cassie and his dad shared a look and then burst into laughter. She clutched her belly and doubled over, her body shaking with mirth, gasping for air with tears forming at the corners of her eyes.

Ethan did the only thing he could think of to shut her up. He tugged her off the couch and into his arms, framed her face between his hands, and kissed the laughter away.

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

All Fics & Edits: @a-crepusculo @annfg8 @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @doriopenheart @genevievemd @headoverheelsforramsey @lucy-268 @jamespotterthefirst @jerzwriter @lady-calypso @mainstreetreader @takemyopenheart @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

Submissions: @openheartfanfics

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @hopelessromantic1352 @mrs-ramsey

[lucy-268]

Not the Right Person

Series/Pairing/Characters: Open Heart - Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Charley Valentine); Sienna Trinh; Aurora Emery

Rating / Warnings: General

Summary: Various “Celebrations” for Valentine’s Day when you aren’t celebrating with the right person.

Comments/Notes: Written for CFWC Valentine’s Day event @choicesficwriterscreations, and Galentine’s Day, February 13, @choices-february2023.

Disclaimer: Most characters belong to PB, Charley is sort of mine

Word count: 737

Residency, Year Two:

Charley was logged onto the computer at the nurses’ station nearest the diagnostics office. She was entering notes for her cases, while alternately looking down the hall. She was surprised when the lights were turned off and Ethan stepped out into the hall, pulling the door shut behind him. He had his briefcase in one hand, and was holding his phone to his ear with the other.

As he got closer, she overheard the very end of his conversation right before he hung up. “I know I said I’d go, but I didn’t realize it was Valentine’s day when I agreed to go out with her!” He dropped his phone in his pocket and froze as he saw Charley. She quickly averted her eyes from him and back to the computer.

“Dr. Valentine, did you get the test results back on Mr. Barnett?”

She nodded. “I took care of it. Baz was right, so he’s taking care of him right now.”

Ethan nodded, and shoved his hand through his hair. “So I don’t need to stay? I’m happy to cancel my plans.”

Charley shook her head. “Baz and June have it under control. I’ll be leaving myself soon.”

“Do you have plans?” Ethan asked, not sure whether he was hoping she would or wouldn’t. He knew wanting her to not have plans was unfair as he insisted on a reset.

“Yes, I do.” She logged off the computer and gave him a tight smile. “I need to run. See you tomorrow, Dr. Ramsey.”

After turning away from Ethan, Charley hurried to the stairs, bypassing the elevator. She hurried down to the staff locker room to shower and change. Soon she met Aurora and Sienna in the atrium. Jackie was notably missing. “I hope I’m not too late.”

Aurora smiled and shook her head. “Right on time. We have plenty of time for our reservations.” She held up her car keys. “Let’s go!”

The host greeted them when they arrived and soon they were seated near the terrace. Sienna laughed. “I figured since we were a group of three on Valentine’s day, we’d be shoved into a corner!”

Aurora grinned. “It helps since I’ve known the owner and chef since first grade.”

A smiling waiter appeared, with three glasses of water. “Good evening, ladies. Do you have any questions about the menu?”

Aurora shook her head. “I think we’re ready for the started. Madeline recommended a seafood tower and sauvignon blanc to start. Is that okay?”

Charley and Sienna looked at each other and nodded. “If the chef is recommending it, I’ll try it.”

The ladies had finished their starter and ordered their main courses, salmon for Charley, Chilean sea bass for Aurora, and roasted lamb for Sienna. They had laughed, reminiscing about prior Valentine’s days. Aurora took a sip of her wine. “Oh, I don’t think someone is having a good date tonight.” She gestured toward a table by the fireplace. “I think that’s a friend of Aunt Harper’s. Tina something? Tina Richards.”

Sienna and Charley looked over. Tina was frowning at her date. Sienna agreed. “She doesn’t look happy.”

Aurora frowned, trying to remember. “Harper said she just moved to Boston. She’s looking for a fresh start after a divorce. Harper has been setting her up on blind dates.”

Charley gave a cursory glance at the table and then focused on the man. She would recognize the jaw anywhere. “Ethan.” She didn’t even realize she’d spoken aloud.

“It is!” Aurora said.

Sienna looked at Charley. “Are you okay?” she mouthed to Charley, who nodded.

This next morning Ethan was surprised when he got to the diagnostic office. Charley was already there with a cup of coffee form Derry’s. “Good morning, Dr. Valentine.”

She looked up from the latest issue of the NEMJ. “Hello, Ethan.” She nodded to a second Derry cup on his desk. “I brought you coffee.”

He picked up the cup and took a drink. “How was your… how was your… evening last night?”

Charley stared at the words in the magazine. “It was a lot of fun.” She turned to look at him. “How about you?”

Ethan opened his laptop and turned to face it. “Mine was not what I was expecting.”

Charley turned back to her magazine and Ethan pulled up a file on his computer, both thinking about how their evening could have gone better if they were with different people.

[jerzwriter]

A Mixed-Up Valentine (Intern Year)

Book:                   Open Heart (Book 1 Timeline)

Pairing:                Tobias Carrick x F!OC, F!MC, F!OC

Rating:                 Teen +

Category:            Fluff

Warnings: Suggestive thoughts/language; implied sexual activity. Nothing explicit.

Summary:   What happened on Casey & Tobias's last Valentine's Day before they met? See how Casey's night went... Tobias's too... and how they nearly intersected.

Words: 3,000 (sorry!)

A/N: This was going to be a short piece about Tobias & Casey's last Valentine's Day before they met. 🤡🤡🤡 In fairness, though, this is a couple fics in one, as we get to see what Casey's night was like, what Tobias's was like, and how they intersected. I hope you enjoy it. I got a follow-up anon, so I wanted to give a little more info. In this world, Ethan and Casey kissed in Miami, then things ended. She was attempting to move on, but they ended up getting together at the end of book 1, only so split for good when he left for the Amazon without telling her. This takes place during Casey's intern year. She is single when this occurs. Participating in @choices-february2023 Day 14 Valentine's Day and @choicesficwriterscreations Valentine's Event 2023. @choicesholidays - Be My Valentine (it might be a stretch, but I'm trying lol) and @choicesmonthlychallenge To be or not to be, "to be" (for one pair) I'm Urs, "not to be" (for another two) "thank u next".

Valentine’s Day 2020 – Casey’s Intern Year

Casey’s Night:

Running down icy Boston streets in four-inch heels was something Casey would never get used to, especially on 9-degree nights like tonight. The warm glow of Donahue’s neon sign was visible now and not a moment too soon. She was freezing; she wanted her friends, and she needed a drink.

Being alone on Valentine’s Day didn’t bother her one bit. She always felt the day was about love in all its glorious forms. She was blessed to have plenty in her life… her family, friends, and even her patients. She had spent her day spreading cheer and planned to cap it off with a night of revelry with her friends… until Ethan soured her mood. 

Miami was less than a month before.   It had been a culmination and an end of all she hoped they could be. She couldn’t tell you when she fell for Ethan Ramsey. Her feelings moved fluidly from admiration to friendship, to compassion, to… more. It happened so quickly that she almost didn’t see it happen, and she never dared to imagine he felt the same. Then, with a tantalizing kiss, he made it clear that he did. And now that memory was seared in her mind no matter how much she tried to push it away. They were never going to be, and that would have been easier to accept if she believed he didn’t want her as much as she wanted him.

But Casey did what she always does - she chose to find the bright side and muddled through. Valentine’s Day was a test, but she was passing with flying colors… until he handed her the damn rose. The look of disappointment on his face when she turned it down left her sad… and angry. If they weren’t going to be more, then she wasn’t playing the game… but that didn’t make it hurt any less. Thankfully her shift was at its end, and now, salvation was just steps away. Gingerly crossing the icy path, her hand was nearly on the door when an oblivious couple pushed by, sending her careening onto the snowy pavement below.

“Hey!” She yelled after them as they took refuge inside her bar, but they were too enamored to notice her. Although, someone else did.

The sound of her friend’s laughter only added insult to injury as she struggled to her feet. 

“Did you start drinking without us?” Bryce laughed, offering his hand.

“Very funny,” Casey huffed. “They were such jerks!”

Bryce tilted his head and let out a slow whistle as he assessed his friend… formerly with benefits. The red patent heels – so inappropriate for a Boston winter, her jeans that fit like a second skin, and a midriff-baring red sweater left him wondering how anyone could miss her.

“Looking good,” he winked. “You planning on picking up tonight?”

“Hardly!” She spat. “I’m over Cupid and all the trappings that come with him.”

“Then maybe you shouldn’t dress like that,” Jackie teased, “because you’re looking like a sweet snack, girl!”

“I was going to say a spicy snack,” Bryce argued.

“Either will work,” Jackie surmised.

“Guys, can we just get inside?” Casey whined. “I’m freezing!”

Bryce opened the door for the ladies with an exaggerated flourish. “Maybe next time wear a coat then?”  

The bar was more packed than she anticipated it would be on a night dedicated to love, romance, and the carnal acts that accompany them. But as her eyes scanned the familiar room adorned with cheesy red décor and twinkling pink lights, it was plain to see; she wasn’t the only one celebrating “Singles Appreciation Day.”

“Want to sit at the bar? Or will our usual booth do?”

“Our Booth,” Casey insisted. “Is that even a question?”

“Might be?” He needled. “I thought you’d want to be seen, and the bar is a better place for that.”

“In that case, definitely the booth, and I’m sitting on the inside.”

~~~~~

Tobias’s night:

The sounds of soft jazz echoed through the meticulous, well-appointed home. It looked more like a set for a photo shoot than a place someone actually lived, but that’s how Tobias Carrick liked things. His place was picture-perfect on any given day, but today wasn’t any day. It was Valentine’s Day, and as the music, fragrantly scented air, and abundance of candles just waiting to be lit suggested, on this day, he took things up a notch.

Sauntering toward his dresser, he splashed on more cologne than needed before appraising himself in the mirror. He wasn’t one to lie, and modesty wasn’t his strong suit. He knew he looked good. As he put on his cuff-links and adjusted his suit, he had no doubt Lydia would be pleased. He was equally as confident that he’d be pleased, too. After all, it didn’t take much for the raven-haired, amber-eyed beauty to suck all the air out of a room, but the preview she sent him of the barely there black sequin dress she planned to wear… well, the man hadn’t been able to think of much else since.

Like him, Lydia wanted no strings. Recently single, she had a world to explore, and he was happy to let her start the exploration with him. This would be their third date, and if the past two were any indication, tonight would be one to remember.

His phone vibrated with news that Lydia was running a little late. An ER nurse at Edenbrook, she was still waiting for her replacement to show, but she assured him it wouldn’t be long. They agreed to meet at Donahue’s at 9:00. She felt terrible that they’d miss their dinner reservation. Still, when she explained how she intended to make it up to him, he didn’t give a damn about his lost deposit, nor the meal he’d miss… desert would more than make up for it.

So when he strutted into Donahue’s thirty minutes early, he had no qualms. The festive atmosphere and taking in some of the beautiful… sights… would keep him more than occupied until Lydia arrived.

~~~~~

Donahue’s

Casey didn’t notice Bryce’s sparking smile as he placed fresh drinks in front of his friends. Having already downed three, she was still eagerly waiting for the festive, or at least numbing, effects to kick in. But tonight, each fancy, iced beverage only left her more morose.

Bryce’s eyes were fixed on her as he popped another bottle of beer open. 

“Why so down, Case? You were the epitome of cheerful Hallmark joy at work today… it was almost endearing.”

“It was nauseating,” Jackie grimaced. “Try living with her and Sienna. If this holiday had the equivalent of elves… they’d be it.”

Casey shot a dirty look at her friend. “Well, if happiness and joy are such a turn-off to you, then I suppose you’re happier with me now?”

“Nah!” She shook her head. “I like when you’re fun! And sexy! Dancing with me and shit. The opposite of schmaltzy is not glum, and I know what will fix this!”

“Do, you? How?”

“Shots! Not this grown-up juice box shit Lahela’s buying us!”

“Hey!” Bryce defended. “I thought you liked them!”

Jackie stood up with a chuckle, “Sure, for breakfast! But if we’re here to party and celebrate our single status… and we want to cheer Debby downer here up… we need shots!”

“I don’t know,” Casey started. “I have a morning shift and….”

“Silence!” Jackie ordered with a wave of her hand. “We’re getting shots, and we’re going to have a good time.”  She had barely taken a step away from the booth when her face fell. Sienna was supposed to be out with Mark, but instead, she was heading their way. Knowing her challenge was now greater, she muttered, “even more shots” to herself.   

When Jackie returned to the table, with double shots for all and orders issued to Reggie to send more as soon as they were through, Sienna was doing her best to remain her perky self, even as she explained how her boyfriend stood her up… again… on Valentine’s Day.

“…. so when he got to the T, they said service was suspended, so I can’t really blame him for going home….”

“Yes, you can,” Jackie insisted. “It’s called an Uber, Sienna. Or a cab. If a man wants to get to you, he will, and if he’s not making you a priority, you need to stop allowing him to be one of yours.”

Casey saw Sienna trying to hide her pained expression when she looked Jackie’s way. While she hated seeing her friend hurt, she’d be lying if she said she didn’t welcome the distraction from her own problems. Besides, if Sienna could solider through when her long-time boyfriend was an utter asshole, Casey could surely put her silly pining aside to enjoy a night with her friends. Clearing her throat loudly, she drew attention her way.

“I think what Jackie was trying to say is that you deserve to be treated a lot better than that, today of all days. So now, we’ll see to it that you are.”  

Casey’s heart warmed when she saw Sienna smile genuinely, and suddenly, all she wanted to do was have fun herself.

“And that starts with me getting you a pleasant drink, not these thimbles of rubbing alcohol Jackie is pushing!”

“HEY!” Jackie yelled.

“What would you like, Si?”

“I would really like a Cosmo,” Sienna beamed to Jackie’s chagrin. When Bryce went to stand, Casey, placed her hand on his arm to stop him. “Nope, this round’s on me.”

~~~~

He didn’t notice when 9:00 had passed, not even 9:15. But with 9:30 approaching, his swagger wasn’t lost, but there was a slight burrow in his brow. He checked his phone… nothing. He went to call but stopped… he knew how hospitals were, and Lydia would reach out as soon as possible. He put the phone back in his pocket when it rang, a look of relief on his face, but it wasn’t who he expected.

He had known Audrey for years now… in every way. When the knockout redhead began her nursing career just shy of five years before, she was the talk of Kenmore. It was easy to see why, and Dr. Carrick wasn’t immune. Those curvy, long legs seemed to have no end, though he absolutely tried to imagine where they did. Her wavy auburn hair bounced with each step she took, and he would have noticed that… if he were looking at her hair. But, eventually, he did because it always hung low, covering one eye, sometimes two, requiring her to brush it away or pull it behind her ear when she looked at him. That’s when her sparkling turquoise eyes took over, casting as much of a spell on him as he did on her.

Yes, Audrey Kenner was a sight to be seen. Not long after meeting, they found themselves in a bar, not much different than this, where she made it painfully clear that she was his for the asking. And ask he did. An unused closet at the end of the hall was all that was needed for them to discover that they were… well-matched. Afterward, he was clear; he wasn’t looking for anything more, and she didn’t mind. That led to an on-and-off arrangement that spanned the next four years. Sometimes at his place, sometimes hers. When the urge was too great, an on-call room would do. She was more than a booty call, but not by much, and they put things on pause every time Audrey met someone who wanted more. 

He caught a glimpse of the clock… almost 10:00, so he sent a message to Lydia to see if she was all right. He started watching the Bruins game… not quite his plans for the evening… when melodious laughter caught his ear. He looked to the end of the bar and found the culprit. He couldn’t see her face, which was covered by her long, blonde hair, but Reggie’s smile made it clear she was someone who could captivate all. His eyes wandered from her red heels, over the curves of her legs and beyond…. Damn. Was all he could muster. If only he didn’t have a date… then his phone chimed; it was Lydia, and he was reminded he did. 

“I’m just going to be a little longer. I’m getting dressed now.”

Normally he’d be witty… telling her not to bother when their clothes wouldn’t stay on long anyway, but right now, he could only say OK. The unknown beauty walked away carrying a small tray of drinks. When she lost her footing and swayed, he felt himself rise to help her, only stopping when he saw a bright smile with far too much hair product jump up to help her. Her boyfriend? He thought. Of course, she was there with a boyfriend. No one like that would be alone tonight. But he was surprisingly pleased when he saw she didn’t sit next to him. Then, his phone went off again.

Tobias inhaled sharply. He knew what this meant. Whenever one of Audrey’s relationships ended, she called him, and the consolation sex was epic. Though she talked a good game, he knew how much she needed it to pull her through. Now, it was Valentine’s Day – she could fake bravado all she wanted, but he knew her too well. But he had a date… and even if he didn’t… when Audrey started seeing Nick, he swore they were done for good. Four years was too long. She said she was fine with things as they were between them, but he knew she wanted more with someone, so why not him? There was too much potential for things to get messy, and something told him Audrey was not someone he’d want to do messy with. 

Without permission, his eyes shifted to the back of the bar, where that laugh enticed him again. How the hell was he even hearing her? The place was packed… loud. He squinted to get a better view, and while he didn’t see her clearly, he saw enough to know she was gorgeous. Her blonde hair spilled around her as her head flipped back in laughter. He felt his breath hitch… perhaps, he didn’t want Lydia to show up tonight after all.

Tobias’s eyes shut tight. It didn’t even matter. He and Lydia were nothing more than a good time. Still… it didn’t do anyone’s ego good to be stood up… and ghosted… on Valentine’s Day. He went to call Lydia when the pretty blonde that was making him lightheaded strutted by him on her way to the bathroom. Their eyes met only for a moment, and he forgot his damn name when she smiled at him. She turned away quickly, with a flush of pink on her cheeks. Maybe he didn’t need to call…. Then his phone beeped again.

Valentine’s Day. Tobias Carrick hadn’t gone without getting laid on Valentine's Day since he was 17 years old, and he wasn’t about to let that eighteen-year streak come to an end. Audrey was a sure thing. Too much of a sure thing, and he promised himself there was no going back. Not this time.

Then there was that laughter again. He looked to the back, a bewildered smile on his face when he saw her sitting crisscrossed on the floor… a few others started sitting around her. She looked his way, and though it was too far to know, he swore she smiled at him again… but turned away just as quickly… what was going on?

His phone started buzzing again, and he looked to find two messages.

Before he could even answer, the DJ’s voice blared over the speakers.

“Happy Single’s Awareness day, folks! Come on, we know you’re not celebrating Valentine's Day if you’re hanging here tonight! So, in hopes of getting some of you… un-single… at least for the night. Let’s go back to middle school! We’re gonna play a game of spin the bottle! That’s right! I said to spin the bottle. You’ve got a couple of minutes to brush up, get some gum, maybe that ol’ Binaca blast… then get your butt on the floor if there’s someone you might want to kiss here tonight!”

Tobias reached into his pocket and put a breath mint in his mouth without realizing he was doing so. His phone vibrated again, reminding him he had only checked one message.

But he didn’t pay the text any mind. Instead, he turned back to the dancefloor where his eyes locked with Casey’s. He could feel his pulse rise, and his heart began to race. Stepping up, he buttoned his blazer jacket. He started to walk in the mystery woman’s direction when he felt a delicate hand on his shoulder, followed by an arm wrapping around his waist. He turned around to find Audrey staring up at him… a mix of desire, need, and sadness in her eyes.

“Hey, T….” she whispered with a tiny smile.

His head flung back in the beautiful blonde’s direction, then back to Audrey. He knew what he wanted to do… He and Audrey had never been more than sex, but the pull he felt in this stranger’s direction was overwhelming, and he wanted to understand why. But he couldn’t turn Audrey away. They were… sort of… friends. Right? And contrary to what many believed, he had a heart… even though that heart… and his eyes… were pulled back in another direction.

“Look at that, the bottle landed right on me,” bright smile and hair gel grinned. Then the guy crawled across the floor, causing the beauty to laugh hysterically until he pulled her into a kiss. Tobias knew it was unreasonable. In fact, it was insane, but he could feel anger rising in his cheeks. But it was just a game, right?

He felt like a voyeur watching the couple kiss, not breaking his gaze until their lips parted, and he felt a sense of relief in his chest…. until she pulled the dude back. Kissing him even more passionately as onlookers began to howl and cheer. Tobias felt like a fool. Clearly, they were a couple, and this connection he had been confident they both felt was apparently one-sided.

Audrey tugged at his jacket sleeve, and he turned back to her with a slight grin.

“Wanna go back to my place?”

A look of relief, mixed with gratitude, desperation, and unbridled lust, washed over Audrey’s face. 

“I thought you’d never ask!” She beamed. “Come on,” she smiled, taking his hand. “Where are you parked.”

“Right out front,” he mumbled, holding her close if only to peer at Casey over Audrey’s shoulder again.

He was doing the right thing. After all, an eighteen-year streak is an eighteen-year streak! Within the hour, he and Audrey would be doing things that would horrify most of the patrons at the bar… the idiots had no idea what they were missing. Still, as he and Audrey drifted to sleep in each other’s arms, his mind returned to Donahue’s once more. With a shake of his head, he turned off the light. He was being ridiculous. Besides, if there was anything there, they’d meet again… that’s how it worked. Right?

A/N 2: Casey and Bryce had a lot to drink, and after spinning the bottle, they ended up making out in a corner. But Momma Si was there, and she interrupted and took Casey home, knowing they'd both have regrets in the morning. But no, they didn't rekindle any friends-with-benefits arrangements. :)

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[coffeeheartaddict2]

Love in all forms

Book: Open Heart (post series)

Characters: f!OC Alexis Ramsey, Tobias Carrick, Ethan Ramsey and f!MC Casey Ramsey

Category: Fluff ( a bit of angst)

Warnings: mentions of sexuality and coming out

Word count: 1726

Summary: After noting that Alexis has been out of sorts since new years, Casey brings back a Valentine’s Day tradition to show that she is loved, no matter what.

Disclaimer: Characters (except Alexis) belong to Pixelberry.

Authors note 1: submission for CFWC Valentine’s Day event. Prompt: MC going out of their way to show someone who is sad that they are loved on Valentine’s Day

💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

February 7th 2047.

To the outside world, everything appeared normal in the Ramsey household. Hudson was well into his Engineering degree at MIT, Alexis was applying for colleges and hoping to get into UPenn with an eye to completing medical school at Perelman as well. Edenbrook was still flourishing. Despite everything appearing well, both Casey and Ethan knew something was not right.

Ethan and Casey strived to be the parents that their kids were comfortable with talking to about personal matters, especially when it came to romantic relationships. But both Ethan and Casey had noted Alexis had seemed very nervous for a few months but more so since new years and by February both Casey and Ethan were very concerned. When the kids were younger they had a Valentine’s Day meal on or near Valentine’s Day to show them how much they were loved, the gang also had partaken also but as time marched on and school started taking over the tradition was lost.

She spoke to Ethan the night before, and he agreed they should bring the meal back. It was breakfast time when Casey announced that they would be having a Valentine’s Day family dinner on the 12th of February. Alexis did not say much at breakfast but deep down she was mortified. She had known herself for awhile now that she was not straight but the end of last year she became more than friends with her friend from school, Fiona. They had been friends since freshman year and were always close, towards the end of last year though Alexis thought she felt more than friendship and all came to ahead at new years.

Alexis was staying with Fiona while Ethan and Casey went away for new years. Full of courage from a glass of wine both girls were allowed to have as it was new years, she kissed Fiona. Fiona was shocked at first but returned the kiss. The next day Fiona confessed that she had feelings of more than friendship too but was too scared to act. They both decided to start seeing each other but unlike Alexis, Fiona had come out as Bi-sexual. Fiona was thankfully understanding of this and allowed Alexis to be in control of when and how she would come out. Alexis wanted to be out but was scared. Scared that her parents would not love her any more and kick her to the curb or be dismissive thinking it was a phase. So when Casey stated that they were having a dinner Alexis went from nervous to scared and anxious.

A few days later a distressed Alexis finds herself at Edenbrook. She makes her way to the chief’s office hoping that Uncle T was available and to her relief he was. Tobias was surprised but happy to see her.

“What is up Lexi?”

“I’m scared uncle T” said Alexis quietly.

“What happened?” Asked Tobias now very concerned.

“Nothing yet but mum and dad are bringing back the Valentines family dinner.”

“They were fun, what has made you scared about this one.”

“Because it seems like they are wanting to plan an intervention and I am scared that they will be dismissive at best or kick me to the curb.”

“I have known both of your parents for a long time Lexi, they are both very proud of you and your brother, you have both respected the trust that they have put in you growing up, unless you have seriously betrayed that? Have you betrayed that?”

“I do not know uncle T. I do not know?”

Tobias was really concerned now.

“What’s going on Lexi, I have never seen you like this?”

Lexi then leaves the office and Tobias sat there confused.

He called Ethan. He told Ethan that Alexis had come to the hospital and was scared that Casey was bringing back the Valentine’s Day family meal. She said she was scared that it was an intervention and that you would be dismissive of her or kick her out. I asked her what was going on and then she left.

Ethan sat in his home office and pinched the bridge of his nose.

“It is not an intervention but we are concerned about Alexis, she has been worse since new years so Casey was hoping that bringing back that tradition would make her feel safe and loved and tell us what is happening.” He takes a sip of his coffee. “It sounds like it is having the opposite effect though from what you have told me.”

Tobias agreed with Ethan’s assessment and Ethan invited Tobias to come to the Valentine’s Day family meal.

The day of the meal came and Alexis was a nervous wreck. She was still trying to figure out how to tell her parents and now also Tobias that she was bi-sexual. She came downstairs while dinner was cooking. Mum and dad looked happy and so did uncle T. She had a flash of dinners past where they celebrated love in all its forms and then Alexis got sad because she knew that what she had to say could ruin the happy memories for everyone. She sits at the island bench and starts to cry.

“Alexis, sweetheart, why are you crying.” Asked Casey as she goes to give her a hug.

Alexis does not answer, overcome with everything and the paralyzing fear that the love she now feels will be gone soon enough. So instead she helps set the table. The meal is served, roast pork, vegetables, and dessert.

Before they eat Ethan makes a small speech about the importance of love, feeling safe and valued and how it is important not only to celebrate the different forms of love but to also reassure that we love each other no matter what. Alexis hopes what Ethan said was true but also wished she had asked Fiona to come to help give her some more courage.

They started to eat, the meal looked delicious but Alexis was too nervous to eat.

“Alexis, I stand by what your dad said at the beginning of the meal, we are all worried about you. You have seemed very anxious to put it mildly and I decided to bring back this meal this year to show you that we do love you and that you can tell us anything.”

Alexis gulps. She should have known that her parents would have picked up on something but she was wrong and she was convinced that the only reason why Uncle T was here was because of her visit a few days ago. She starts to eat while she contemplates the best course. The addition of food makes her stomach even more sore and she knows she has to tell them.

“I am bi-sexual.” Alexis says barely above a whisper. “I have been struggling with who I am since towards the end of last year.” Alexis starts to cry.

“Alexis, honey, why are you sad?”

“Because I thought you would not love me anymore, or dismiss it as a “phase” that would pass.”

“Why did you think we would stop loving you?”

“I know the research you have done, the stats on how we are misrepresented in many statistics, also that you created someone different. I do not know anymore.”

Alexis stands up and runs to her room.

The adults sit there for a few minutes, unable to speak.

“Well I was not expecting that:” said Tobias. “The way she was the other day I was expecting something more serious.”

“I thought it was something future related, as in wanting to change her mind about school.” Said Ethan.

“I had some ideas but this was towards the bottom, I am just sad that she felt we would be dismissive of this.” Said Casey.

“Who wants to go up and talk to her? Us staying down here is probably not helping her with her preconceptions.” Said Tobias.

Casey gets up.

“I’ll go.”

She heads upstairs and knocks on the door. There is no response. She calls out that she is coming in as she enters. Alexis is lying face down crying into her pillow. Casey sits down and starts to rub comforting circles on her back.

“I know I have done much research into the health outcomes of those who identify as lgbtqi+ people that is to help us get better outcomes and sadly such bigoted attitudes are a contributing factor. Because such attitudes exist, I understand why you would be scared to tell us but as long as you are being safe, me and your dad do not care as long as you are happy.”

“You are not just saying that?”

“No, I am not and if you would give us a chance we would love you to come back downstairs.

Casey and Alexis come back downstairs.

Alexis apologizes for storming out the way she did. Alexis eats some more of her meal and it is delicious.

“As I said before I was starting to question towards the end of last year my sexuality. I still liked boys but felt that I did not like them solely.”

Alexis takes another breath.

“Since New years I have been in a relationship with Fiona. She has been understanding of me not being out and has not forced the issue.”

“I, we are all glad that you are Happy Alexis.” Says Ethan. “It is all we have ever wanted for you and your brother, is to be happy in your respective lives.”

“You mean that Dad?”

“Of course.”

“I am happy you are happy Lexi.” Says Tobias.

They finish the main meal and have dessert. Alexis feels relieved her fears were not realized and then she feels foolish for thinking otherwise and more importantly, Casey’s idea to show her that she is indeed loved worked.

The next day comes and Fiona notices that Alexis seems happier.

“I told the parentals last night. I feel like such an idiot for thinking they would not be accepting of who I truly am but they were happy for me.”

“Well I am glad,” sas Fiona as she holds and squeezes her hand. “I had a strong feeling they would be accepting and I am relieved I was right.”

“And it feels so freeing to be out too.”

They stop and share a brief kiss before heading into school.

Authors note 2: I am aware and would like to acknowledge those who may not have had such a positive coming out experience. I have known people where it was positive and others not so much. I have always envisioned Casey and Ethan to be rather accepting of this, especially since they know the statistics in and around health outcomes and mental health issues where those who identify as lgbtqi are disproportionately represented. As for the person doing the coming out,I presume it would be rather daunting.

You also may have noticed that Tobias is the only one that calls her Lexi. He is the only person who is allowed to call her that. He has always called her that and for whatever reason when someone else does, Alexis does not like it, except from Uncle T.

As for the relationship with Fiona and Alexis, it is a happy relationship but they end up going to different colleges. Alexis to UPenn and Fiona to Yale. Even though not crazily far, it was far enough for them to decide to put their friendship first and be friends.

Tagging: @jerzwriter @jamespotterthefirst @genevievemd @tessa-liam @liaromancewriter @cariantha @binny1985 @schnitzelbutterfingers @ofmischiefandmedicine @a-crepusculo @crazy-loca-blog @bex-la-get @potionsprefect

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If I have missed anyone or you wih to be added please send me a dm or mention in a reply

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Special Surprise

Pairings: Ethan Ramsey x Victoria Clarke

Word Count: 1.1k

Summary: Luke and Lily enlist Aunt Sienna for a very special mission

Rating: General Audiences

Category: Fluff

Hey Alice! I have an idea for a Val fic and I think you're the one to do this! DO NOT feel obligated, it's only if it inspires you.

Valentine's Day is coming up and Luke and Lily enlist Aunt Sienna's help to make homemade chocolates to surprise their Mom and Dad. (Maybe while she's babysitting so they can go out for a romantic date?) :)

ONLY if you want! 💘

Hi Elsa! This is such a cute idea! I hope you like what I’ve come up with

Special Surprise

Pairings: Ethan Ramsey x Victoria Clarke

Word Count: 1.1k

Summary: Luke and Lily enlist Aunt Sienna for a very special mission

Rating: General Audiences

Category: Fluff

“Come in Sienna! You have no idea how excited they are.” Victoria laughed as Sienna walked through the front door.

“I’m excited too! I love spending time with them.” Sienna smiled.

“Luke, Lily look who’s here!”

The twins came running into the hallway. “Aunt Sienna!” They grinned.

Sienna bent down and wrapped her arms around the twins.

“Are you both excited to spend the day with me?”

“Yeah!” Luke and Lily smiled.

“Thanks for this Sienna. We really appreciate it.” Ethan said as he put his coat on.

“No worries! You deserve a nice day out.”

“Be good for Aunt Sienna. We’ll be back later.” Victoria pressed a kiss to each of the twins’ heads.

“We will!”

With one final wave, Ethan and Victoria headed out the door. Sienna turned to the twins. “What would you like to do today?”

Luke and Lily took Sienna’s hands and dragged her into the kitchen. “We want to make Mommy and Daddy something!”

“You do?” Sienna smiled.

“Yeah!” Luke said, he pulled out a notebook, scribbles on the pages. “We learnt about Valentines Day in school and we want to make Mommy and Daddy some chocolates!”

“I see. And do you know how to make them?” Sienna laughed.

Luke and Lily shared a look. “No. But we thought you could help us!” Lily said as Luke nodded.

Sienna laughed. “I think that’s a great idea! Can I make some for Uncle Dylan too?”

“Yes! And Liam!” Lily said.

“Yes! This recipe that I have will come in great handy in the future! He’s going to be so jealous that we made chocolate today. I’ll have to take some back home with me.” Sienna smiled.

She went searching in the Ramsey’s cupboards and found all the correct ingredients that were needed. Sienna got out a bowl and the twins’ stools so they could reach the counter.

“Is it easy to make?” Luke asked.

“Nothing is too difficult for me.” Sienna winked. “But I will need some taster chefs.” She raised an eyebrow.

Luke and Lily immediately raised a hand which made Sienna laugh. “Once we’ve made the chocolate you can taste it. Then we can see if it’s good enough to go in the fridge.”

Luke and Lily grinned. Sienna was a whizz in the kitchen, moving fluently as she made the chocolate mixture.

“Is it ready?” Lily asked.

Sienna smiled. “It is. Would you like to taste it?”

Luke immediately stuck a finger into the chocolate. “It tastes yummy!”

Lily did the same “Mommy and Daddy are going to love it! And Uncle Dylan and Liam!”

“They are! They need to go in the fridge so they can set but they’ll be ready to eat soon.”

“How soon?”

“About four to six hours.” Sienna smiled.

“But that’s so long!” Lily huffed.

Sienna laughed. “Well Aunt Sienna has lots of plans for the two of you. But first you need to wash your hands. Whoever finishes first gets to choose the DVD.”

Luke and Lily raced up the stairs, their footsteps echoing throughout the house.

Sienna finished up the rest of the chocolate and put them in the fridge. This afternoon was a success and she couldn’t wait for the twins to present the chocolates to Ethan and Victoria.

Luke ran down the stairs first, Lily quickly behind him.

“I won!” Luke grinned.

“Not fair.” Lily crossed her arms.

“Well done Luke. What DVD would you like?”

“The Lion King!”

“That was my choice!” Lily crossed her arms.

“You can choose the next one!” Sienna winked.

Lily seemed to like that idea as she climbed onto the sofa. Sienna put the DVD in the player and sat between the twins.

She loved spending time with Luke and Lily and loved that they were around the same age as her own son Liam. Seeing their interactions made Sienna think about having another child, she knew Liam would love having a little brother or sister and Dylan as well would love to have a second.

It was a conversation that she would have when she got home.

Ethan and Victoria left the seafront and headed back to the car, hand in hand and sharing smiles along the way.

“Todays been great.” Ethan said as they got to the car.

“It has. It’s been so long since the two of us have been out.” Victoria smiled, wrapping her arms around Ethan.

“I know. I’m sorry. We should try and fit at least once a month in.” Ethan sighed.

Victoria ran a gentle hand across his cheek. “None of that. We both know how busy we are. We are doing our best. That’s all that matters.” She smiled.

“I know. We should plan ahead. Starting now.”

“It’s a deal. We’re nearing the end of our date. Back home to our twins.”

Ethan chuckled. “The dates not over yet. We’re forgetting one thing.” He leaned in closer.

“I like your thinking.” Victoria smiled. She closed the space between them, attaching her lips to his. Their tongues danced amongst each other, a fire brewing between them before Victoria reluctantly pulled away. “Wanna finish this later when the twins are in bed?”

Ethan pressed one last kiss to Victoria’s lips before pulling away. “You’ve got yourself a deal Mrs Ramsey.”

Ethan and Victoria headed back to Weston, ready to see their twins.

“Anyone home?” Victoria called out as she and Ethan stepped through the front door of their home.

“Mommy, Daddy!” Luke and Lily sprinted into the hallway, wrapping their arms as best as possible around Ethan and Victoria.

“Have you had a fun day with Aunt Sienna?” Ethan asked.

“Yeah! We’ve got a surprise for you.” Lily said as her and Luke dragged them into the kitchen.

“How was your day?” Sienna asked.

“It was great, thanks for looking after them.” Victoria replied.

“No problem. But I believe they have a surprise for you.” Sienna laughed.

Luke and Lily grabbed the chocolates from the counter and handed them to Victoria and Ethan.

“Did you make these?” Ethan asked.

“Yeah! With Aunt Sienna!” Luke said.

“They were excellent sous chef’s.” Sienna laughed.

“Well they look amazing. And I bet they’re going to taste great too.” Victoria smiled as he gave the twins a hug.

“I should head home. Enjoy your chocolates.” Sienna grabbed her bag.

Victoria saw her off the premises and went to sit in the living room with her family.

“The moment of truth.” Ethan said, holding up a chocolate.

Victoria ate one, the rich texture on her tongue made her smile. “They taste great!”

“Yay!” Luke and Lily grinned.

“Maybe you two can be chefs when you’re older.” Ethan smiled, pulling the twins into his arms.

“But we want to be doctors like you and Mommy Daddy!” Luke said.

“You can be anything you want to be. As long as you work hard.” Victoria said.

Whatever the twins did, Ethan and Victoria would be proud of them. They were so lucky to have them and they couldn’t wait for more special treats in the future.

I previously mentioned Dylan before, he and Sienna have a son called Liam and later on a daughter called Emily

I guess this can also be submitted for @choicesficwriterscreations Valentine’s Day event

Tagging in reblog

[cariantha]

Accidental Valentine

Book: Open Heart, Book 1

Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Sawyer Brooks)

Rating: Teen

Warning: A little bit of sexual innuendo

Category: Fluff

Word count: 4K

Summary: It’s Valentine’s Day and Ethan and Sawyer get “stuck” spending the evening together.

A/N: This takes place after Miami but before the opera. Inspiration drawn from an episode of Grey's Anatomy, 🎶I Wanna Remember, 🎶My Body, and 🎶If Our Love is Wrong.

February 14, 2023

4:30 p.m.

Ethan guided Sawyer through the dimly lit maze of construction materials in the new wing. Instinctively, his hand hovered just inches from her lower back. In the eerily quiet section of the hospital their pagers buzzed simultaneously. The unexpected noise startled Sawyer causing her to stumble as she stepped over a bundle of cables.

“Whoops!” 

“Are you–”

She felt the warmth of his palm as she found her footing and awkwardly laughed off the mishap. “I’m good.” 

Checking his pager, Ethan read the new notification and groaned. “And so it begins.”  

For the past two days, the National Weather Service warned of severe blizzard conditions. Local news stations ran stories showing empty grocery store shelves as Boston residents took precautions to shelter in place. Chief Emery reviewed emergency protocols and prepared hospital staff for the influx in the emergency department.

Offering his hand to help her step over the next hazard, Ethan cautioned, “Careful… watch your step. The page was for more doctors in the E.R., not patients.”

Sawyer took his hand but not before giving him a gentle side-punch for his jab about her clumsiness.  

Minutes later they waited for the elevator to arrive, and ever the gentleman, Ethan gestured for Sawyer to enter first as the steel doors slowly slid open. “After you.”

Once Ethan was safely across the threshold, Sawyer pushed the button for the first floor. Rolling back and forth on her heels, she waited for the digital number above the door to change. 

Ethan stood against the side wall, a small smile forming at the corner of his mouth as he admired her profile. 

“What?” she asked, feeling the burn of his gaze as she watched the floor number change from five to four.

“Nothing,” he answered, shifting his eyes to where her attention was still focused. 

Before the number changed to three, the elevator jerked violently coming to a sudden stop. The jolt caused them both to stumble backward a step or two. 

“Whoa!” Sawyer yelped, trying to keep her balance.

Ethan tried to reach for her but lost sight in the now pitch black box. “Are you alright?” he called out.

“Yeah. You?”

“Fine.”

Sawyer pulled out her phone to illuminate the small space helping Ethan locate the emergency call button.  

“It’s not working. The storm must have knocked out the power. The generators should kick on shortly. Do you have any service?” he asked, pulling out his own phone to check.

“No, I don’t have any bars.”

The emergency light above them finally buzzed to life, the soft glow just enough for them to make out each other’s faces. 

Ethan backed up to the wall and supported himself on the handrail. “I guess there’s not much else to do but wait it out.” 

5:30 p.m.

They had talked easily, not realizing how much time passed until Sawyer checked her phone.

“Ethan, it’s been an hour. Shouldn’t the generators have kicked on by now?”

“Yeah, they should have.”

Concern etched across his face as he thought about the patients who might be in danger, particularly Naveen. But before he could share those concerns, they were interrupted by some banging and a distant muffled voice.

“Hello? Can anyone hear me? Anyone there?”

“We can hear you!” Ethan responded with his deep booming voice. 

“This is Richard from Maintenance. Are you okay?”

“Yes, we’re fine.”

“Ethan? Ethan, is that you? It’s Harper. Who else is with you?”

“Yes. Dr. Brooks is here also. Why haven’t the generators kicked on yet?” he shouted back.

“They have. But the computer system controlling the elevators crashed. We haven’t been able to reboot it. We’ve called for a technician but the storm is making travel impossible right now,” Harper explained. 

Ethan shared a look with Sawyer.

“Make yourselves comfortable. It’s gonna be a while,” Richard hollered down. 

Sawyer sighed as she moved to sit on the floor, “Well, you heard him.”   

6:00 p.m.

Ethan had finally joined her on the floor, propped up against the opposite wall. 

“Okay, lightning round.”

Scrunching his face in confusion, “Pardon?” 

“I’m going to ask you five random questions and you can’t think. Just answer with the first thing that comes to mind. Are you ready?”

“Uh…”

“I said no thinking!” she pointed and laughed.

“Fine, go ahead,” he reluctantly consented. “Hopefully these will be better than the ones you asked when we tested the fMRI.”

“Let’s find out. First celebrity crush?”

Without missing a beat, “Jennifer Love Hewitt.”

Sawyer nodded in quiet approval. “And if you had the chance to hook up with her tonight, would you?”

Ethan squinted looking into her eyes. “No,” he stated confidently.

“Okay, hmm… What’s your favorite carb: bread, pasta, rice, or potatoes?”

“Pasta.” 

“When people stand up for a standing ovation, are you usually one of the earlier people to stand up or one of the later?”

“I rarely stand at all.”

“Yeah, that’s on brand,” she laughed thinking of what to ask next. “Say something cool.”

“That’s not a question.”

Sawyer rolled her eyes then her hand to encourage him to answer anyway.

“Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis.”

Shaking her head with a giggle, “You’re such a nerd.”

Ethan shrugged. “Is it my turn now?”

“That was only four questions. I get one more.” 

“It was five… celebrity crush… if I’d hook up–”

“The hook-up question was merely a follow-up. It wasn’t an official question,” she argued with a smile. “Last one. Favorite type of muffin?”

He tilted his head slightly and raised his eyebrow with a questioning glare.

“What’s that look for?” she genuinely wondered until it suddenly dawned on her. “Oh my god! Stop! I wasn’t trying to bait you. It was an innocent question. When I stopped at Derry’s the other day, I thought it would be a nice treat for you and Naveen, but I didn’t know what flavors you liked.”

“Riiiiight.”

“It’s true!” she insisted, kicking his foot. “And given how quick your mind went there, I guess I have my answer.”

As their laughter died down, Ethan jutted out his chin to start his line of questioning. “If you had to choose another specialty, what would it be?” 

“Borrrrring,” she faked a yawn. “Is that really the best you’ve got?”

“What? It will tell me a lot about you. Especially if you say something absurd like ‘surgery.’”

“Emergency medicine.”

He pursed his lips together and nodded. “I can see that. Okay, um…what book are you reading at the moment?”

“Yours.” 

Ethan rolled his eyes.

“I’m serious. After the Platt case I wanted to read the Rethinking Symptoms chapter again. Remember that case? The horrible PITA you assigned me a while back.”

“I remember,” he quietly acknowledged, a twinge of guilt knotting his stomach. His only intention was to challenge her. Had he known just how abusive Platt had been to her and the nursing staff, he would have intervened much earlier. 

Sensing he got lost in thought, Sawyer urged him on. “Next question?”

“Hrm… What’s the most reckless thing you’ve ever done?” 

She looked down for a moment and bit her lower lip before hesitantly reconnecting with his curious eyes. “I made out with my boss on a work trip.” 

It was a half-truth. She couldn’t speak the whole truth. Because the truth was, allowing herself to fall for him was the most reckless thing she’d ever done.

And if Ethan was asked the same question, it wouldn’t be a prank from medical school, or a drunken one night stand, or even Patient X. It would be that he fell for his intern.

As the air thickened in the confined space, Ethan decided it was best to put an end to the game.

“Alright, I think that’s enough speed dating fun,” he concluded trying to keep his tone light.

“Wait, if that was speed dating, then I have to know… would you have wanted to see me again?”

“Probably not.”

Offended Sawyer threw her hands into the air, “WHAT?! Why not?” 

“Because my first impression of you would have been an ass-kissing, E.R. adrenaline junkie, with questionable morals. Need I say more?” he teased with a rare full smile. 

“Well, for what it’s worth, I would have wanted to see you again.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. You would have had me at ‘pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis.’ That was hot,” she winked.

7:00 p.m.

GRRRRRRRRRR.

“Hungry?” he asked.

Embarrassed, Sawyer clutched her stomach with her hands, “You have no idea what I’d give for a cheeseburger and fries right now.” 

“When was the last time you ate today?”

“I shared a late breakfast with Naveen.”

Ethan shook his head silently admonishing her as he shoved his hand into his coat pocket. He could hardly lecture her though. He was about to hand her the silver-wrapped candy bar that he purchased from the vending machine in lieu of taking his own lunch break earlier. “Here,” he politely offered.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, she moved to sit at his side, thanking him for the sugary sustenance. As she started to peel back the wrapper there was another rumbling sound. But this time it didn’t come from Sawyer’s stomach. Snapping the candy bar down the middle, she offered Ethan the other half. “Here, we'll share.”

With a shake of his head, “It’s fine, Rookie. You go ahead.”

“I insist,” holding it in front of him until he finally took it from her. 

Sawyer took a big bite from the corner of her mouth. She moaned softly, leaning her head back against the wall as she savored the chocolate-coated pillowy goodness. “Mmm.”

It was a sweet, familiar and arousing sound that transported Ethan to a night not that long ago. A night when conversation flowed as easily as the gentle sea breeze. When mouths not only tasted the salt in the air, but the salt on each other’s skin. And when her hips rolled against his, like waves lapping the shore.

Noticing he was lost in a daze, Sawyer gently steered him back to the present. “Hey, everything okay?” she asked softly. 

“Hmm?” Registering her voice, he shook the fog from his head, “Uh, yeah. Just remembering something.”

8:00 p.m.

Ethan checked the time on his watch and sighed.

Curiosity got the best of her, wondering if he was late for something. “Did you have any plans tonight?”

“As a matter of fact, I did,” he confessed. “A quiet night in with takeout, a movie, and the promise of interesting conversation.” It was subtle but he caught how she lowered her head to pick lint from her pants, masking what seemed like disappointment. 

“I feel sorry for your date…” she muttered.

The insult caught him off guard. “Excuse me?”

She slapped her hand over her mouth and then clarified, “Oh god, sorry. I didn’t mean it like that! I just meant that they are getting stood up on Valentine’s Day. That sucks. I think the only thing worse than that is getting left at the altar.”

“I’m not worried about it. When Naveen finds out I spent the evening with you instead, I think he’ll be quick to forgive me,” he winked. It wasn’t a secret that Naveen picked up on their chemistry and attempted to play matchmaker often, much to Ethan’s chagrin. 

This time as punishment for his teasing Sawyer shoulder-bumped him while mentally breathing a sigh of relief.  

“What about you? Surely you had plans tonight.” Ethan was well aware of the fact that Sawyer had many admirers at work. There was a high probability that one of them would have extended an invitation to her for the evening, especially the cocksure Dr. Lahela. Ethan noticed how the Malibu Ken doll hung to her every word, and even worse, held on with his self-proclaimed “magic” hands. It appeared to Ethan that the scalpel jockey was incapable of having a conversation without having an arm around her waist, fingers massaging her neck, or hands rubbing her shoulders. And in the last couple weeks, it irked him more and more.  

“Nothing concrete. I was keeping my options open.” With a slight blush pinking up her cheeks, “I know it’s silly but I was really hoping this cute boy from work was going to ask me to be his valentine today.”

Ethan met her eyes in a challenge. “Is that so?” 

Not backing down she looked him dead in the eye. “Yeah, but I don’t think he will. Even though he likes me too.”

“Maybe it’s just bad timing,” Ethan regretfully looked down at his hands. 

“That’s a possibility. But one of the nurses did tell me that Justin also likes Miley, the peds transfer from MK. Apparently he can’t make up his mind which of us he likes more and doesn’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings.” Sawyer laughed and tapped his foot with hers to lighten the mood, as a small smile formed on his lips. “I mean, Miley’s really cute, but c’mon,” she lifted her hand up and down gesturing to herself, “I’m the full package.” 

“No argument there,” he agreed, tapping his foot to hers this time.  

8:30 p.m.

Bored, Sawyer stood and stretched in front of the bulletin board. She scanned the flyers advertising rooms for rent and used cars for sale, as well as outdated posters promoting health and wellness. She snorted when she lifted a couple layers to find the “What to do in case of emergency” instructions buried underneath it all. Removing a few of the flyers, she returned to her spot on the floor.

“What are you doing?” he inquired.

“Arts and crafts. Want to join me?” she chuckled expecting him to pass.   

“Sure. Hand me a couple of those flyers.”

“Really?”

“I’ll have you know I’m pretty good at origami.”

“Of course you are,” she rolled her eyes. 

As Ethan got to work folding and twisting a piece of paper, Sawyer carefully creased a couple lines into hers. Having torn off one of the edges to make a perfect square, she continued folding and creasing, then folded each corner toward the center of the page, repeating the process until she had achieved the right shape and size. 

She leaned across Ethan snagging the pen from his chest pocket, “Can I steal this?”

In that split second, Ethan’s senses were overwhelmed. Her hand on his thigh as she reached across with the other. The hints of coconut and tropical flowers that tickled his nose. The closeness of her body against his. He cleared his throat, “It appears that you already have.” 

Already back to work on her project, Sawyer wrote numbers on one side and colors on the other. After carefully pinching the paper to change its shape, she pulled four flaps up and wrote a random phrase on each one. Finished, she excitedly showcased her final product, “Ta-da!” 

“What is it?” he glanced up momentarily from his own craft.  

“A paper fortune teller.” She positioned her fingers to push and pull the points of her device and asked the first question. “Will we ever get out of this elevator?”

Her fingers moved the paper contraption back and forth as she spelled and counted out loud. “B-L-U-E. One… two… three… four.” Peeling back the tab over the number four, she read the fortune. “‘Outlook not good.’ Grrrrrreat.” 

“Geez, I didn’t realize being in my company was so horrible,” he inserted, still concentrating hard on his art project.  

“It’s the worst,” she said, dramatically rolling her eyes and feigning annoyance. “Ask a question. You can keep it to yourself if you want.” 

“Uhhh…” he thought for a moment, working on the final touches of his origami. “Did I make the right decision in Miami?” he asked himself. “Okay, I’ve got one.”

“Pick a color,” she instructed, showing him the options. 

“Green.” For the color of her eyes he decided.

“G-R-E-E-N. Now pick a number between one and eight.”

“One.” Because she was the number one intern, his number one pick for the program, and the first person he thought of when he woke up these last few weeks. 

Sawyer peeled back the tab. “Reply hazy. Try again later.” She heard Ethan’s unsatisfied snort. “Not the answer you were hoping for?” 

“Not quite.”

Sawyer assumed his question was about finding a cure for Naveen and offered him a sympathetic smile. Noticing that his hands were now still in his lap, she pointed to them. “Let’s see your masterpiece.”

Ethan presented a nearly perfect paper rose complete with stem and leaves. “For you.”

Surprised and flattered, Sawyer accepted the sweet gesture. “Wow,” admiring the level of detail as she twirled the delicate flower in her hand. Then looking into his waiting eyes, she held the paper blossom to her chin, “Thank you.” 

9:30 p.m. 

Ethan circled his ankle and bent his knee up and down a few times trying to improve the circulation in his leg.  

“Leg falling asleep?”

“Yes.”

An idea forming in her head, Sawyer unlocked her phone and opened her music app. Scrolling through her favorite playlist, she found a befitting tune and pressed play. Rising to her feet, she extended her hand to Ethan. “May I have this dance?”

Ethan stared at her hand considering, then met her eyes. 

“C’mon,” she reached down to take both his hands and helped pull him to his feet. “We need to stretch our legs. And honestly if I don’t move around I might pee my pants.”

“Well, we don’t want that.” Still holding her hands, he raised his left hand and folded his fingers around hers. He guided her other hand to his shoulder and placed his right hand on her waist.

They began to sway back and forth making circles in the small space of the elevator car. At first they avoided eye contact. But as the words of the song sunk in, their eyes met more frequently until they were finally locked on one another.  

I wanna memorize you, wanna stay here forever 'Cause I-I-I, I-I-I I take a picture in my mind so we're always together 'Cause I-I-I, I-I-I wanna remember

When the song ended, Sawyer was the one who broke the trance. She was just about to pull away when Ethan spoke. 

“One more?”

The corners of her lips lifted into a radiant smile. “Okay. Let me find another song.”

“I rather liked the last one.”

After hitting the replay button and returning the phone to her pocket, Ethan took her hand again. As the intro music played, he slid his other hand around to her back pulling her body close until there was no space between them. Her arm wrapped around his waist. The side of her face rested in the crook of his neck.

This feels like One of those moments moving by so fast You wanna do something just to make it last You wanna do something to remember Breathe it in The feel of your body on my fingertips The moonlight on fire and the clothes we're in We gotta do something to remember We don't wanna forget it

As they rocked side to side in each other’s arms, Sawyer could see their reflection in the stainless steel walls. His chin rested on the top of her head literally breathing her in as the lyrics suggested. 

The song ended and Ethan placed a quick peck on the top of Sawyer’s head. Ever-so-soft, she wouldn’t have even noticed had she not still been looking at their reflection. When they finally pulled away, Ethan brought her hand to his lips. “Thank you for the dance.”

11:00 p.m.

Tired and cold, Sawyer sat by Ethan’s side using his shoulder as a pillow. He encouraged her to try and get some sleep, but the cold steel against her back and dropping temperature in the elevator made it difficult. 

When she hugged herself to help control the shivers, Ethan nudged her to sit up and removed his lab coat. “Come here,” he patted the floor in front of him. 

She did as she was told, nestling herself in between his legs as Ethan draped his coat over her like a blanket. Pulling it up just barely over her mouth, Sawyer breathed in the familiar and intoxicating scent.

With a hand on her shoulder, Ethan guided her back against his chest. Framing her sides with his bent knees, he transferred his warmth and Sawyer melted into him.

Ethan leaned his head against the wall and took long slow breaths. His mind and body were engaged in conflict. He summoned all his strength to resist temptation and tamp down the twitch in his pants. As his head said “no,” his body urged him to lean down and nibble her earlobe. Massage her pulse point with his tongue. Slip his hand down her shirt to know whether her heart still beats as it did in Miami.  

As they laid there quietly for a few minutes, an occasional shiver still coursed through Sawyer even though the cold no longer affected her. She felt Ethan take a deep breath, her own body moving with the rise and fall of his chest. “What are you thinking about?” she asked softly.

He wanted to tell her. He wanted to give her the honesty she asked for that day in the lab. He took a moment to think of how he wanted to phrase it, and when he was ready, he leaned down and half-whispered next to her ear. 

“Stavo pensando che mi fai sentire qualcosa che non ho mai provato prima. So di aver detto che questa cosa tra noi è sbagliata e non dovremmo. E per la prima volta nella mia vita... non voglio avere ragione. Perché voglio che tu sia mio.” 

Sawyer didn’t understand anything he said, but she felt the meaning deep in her bones. Turning her head and shifting her body, she looked him in the eyes. There was longing and desire, and she watched how they slowly drifted down to her lips. She leaned in ever so slightly and Ethan pushed forward the rest of the way capturing her mouth. His hands held the sides of her head as he kissed her over and over. As her lips parted, he lightly introduced the tip of his tongue, moving deeper as she opened to him further. They continued to take each other’s breath away until at last the need for air had him closing the kiss with a soft peck. 

Needing to slow the pace before things went too far, Ethan rested his forehead against hers and begged, “Tell me something. Anything.” 

Sawyer caressed his face as a beautiful smile spread across hers. “This has been the best Valentine’s date ever.”

He leaned back a bit, raising his eyebrow in disbelief. 

“I mean it. Great conversation and lots of fun. You gave me chocolate and flowers. We danced. You spoke sweet nothings in Italian. At least that’s what I heard… you could have said I had amateur scalpel technique for all I know… but it was still romantic. And that kiss,” she sighed softly. “I’ve never been one for traditional Valentine’s Day gestures, but you may have convinced me otherwise, because tonight was perfect.”

Ethan was just about to say something when the elevator jerked back to life. 

They both stood dusting off their backsides and straightening their clothes when Ethan tried to speak again. “Sawyer?”

She already knew how this was going to end. “You don’t have to say it, Ethan. I know where things stand when these doors open.”

He nodded sadly. “Right. But I was also going to say, ‘Happy Valentine’s Day.’”

“Oh,” she said, surprised. 

The chime indicated the elevator finally reached the first floor. “Ethan?” Sawyer stepped out into the hall and turned around to face him. Smiling affectionately, she held the paper rose close to her heart, “Thank you for a lovely time tonight.”

A/N: Here’s what Ethan said in Italian: “I was thinking that you make me feel something I never have before. I know I’ve said this thing between us is wrong and we shouldn’t. And for the first time in my life… I don’t want to be right. Because I want you to be mine.”

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @potionsprefect @jamespotterthefirst @annfg8 @peonierose @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @jerzwriter @quixoticdreamer16 @mysticalgalaxysstuff @inlocusmads @txemrn @trappedinfanfiction @mvalentine @takemyopenheart @ofmischiefandmedicine @openheartforeverinmyheart @doriopenheart @coffeeheartaddict2 @genevievemd @starrystarrytrouble @hopelessromantic1352 @kyra75

[peonierose]

Hi Sweet P! Dropping in for a little Valentine's Day fun...

Bryce gives Luna a card for Valentine's Day. Does he pick out a mushy or funny one? Is there anything special he writes inside?

I’m a Sucker for You!

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Bryce Lahela (M!MC) x Luna Auclair (F!OC)

Words: 1,400+

Rating: Fluff

Summary: Bryce and Luna spend some time on Valentine‘s Day (even though they’re not the biggest Valentine’s Day fans). With one or two presents in between.

A/N: Thanks so much @cariantha for this sweet ask love 💗 I came up with this little story, hope you’ll like it 💗

I also linked Lunas & Bryce’s engagement story called ”How were we ever strangers“ (if you’re curious 🥰)

Side note: I’m participating in the @choicesficwriterscreations for the Valentine‘s Day celebration.

The doorbell chimed. And I looked up from the papers I was grading to get up from the couch to get the door.

”Just a sec. Pregnant woman waddling to the door.“ I can hear shuffling outside the door.

I breathe out as I slowly walk towards the front door. No one said carrying twins was easy. With my hands on my 8 months pregnant belly, I huff out small breaths as I walk slowly. Waddling like a penguin is more like it.

I’m close to my due date. Only one month away from welcoming our two little angels into the world.

I open the door and only see a big bouquet of peonies in front of me.

Yellow checkered vans sneak out below and I grin. I know exactly who’s holding a bouquet of my favorite flowers.

The flowers get lowered to reveal a smiling Bryce.

I grin at Bryce and take the flowers from him before giving him a kiss that lasts longer and is sweeter than anything in this world. When we pull apart we grin at each other.

”They’re so pretty B thank you. You really know how to make a girl happy.“ I nestle my nose inside the flowers and my nose touches the soft, velvet petals and I inhale the scent of the floral bouquet of peonies. Sweet and intoxicating.

”You’re my only and favorite girl. Well, a woman really. Since you’re one hell of a sexy soon-to-be mama.“

Tears well up in my eyes.

He grins, kisses me on my forehead and walks inside our house. His soft lips linger for a second longer and I close my eyes relishing the feeling of Bryce being close.

The scent of his cologne and clean fabric softener wafted toward me. Settling something deep inside my soul.

I look up at him with a smile.

”I thought you were just getting breakfast. This is a lot bigger than breakfast.“

Bryce grins wickedly. Holding a bag from our favorite diner and puts it on the kitchen counter. I grin at him.

”I’m glad you like my surprise. I know Valentine’s Day is not exactly our favorite day. But I still wanted to give you some flowers. I thought adding chocolate was a bit much.“

He grins.

”Yeah. I have you as a dessert B.“

Be winks at me. His eyes glint like molten chocolate in the sunshine.

He walks into the living room as I put the flowers into a vase and put them on the kitchen counter.

Bryce looks at the papers on the couch and puts his hands on his hips. Glaring at me disapprovingly with arched eyebrows.

”Lunes! We talked about this. No more working. Meilani said to rest. That also means no grading papers.“

”Actually if I remember our convo correctly you talked. I just listened and nodded to the words that came out of your mouth.“

He sighs and shakes his head grinning, not sure what to say since he knows he can’t win this argument.

I grin at him and settle down into the couch cushions and put my feet up. Trying to find a position that won’t put the twins directly on my bladder.

Bryce sits down next to me and puts my legs over his. I sigh in contentment.

”That feels so good.“ I lie on the couch, eyes closed. Then I hear Bryce chuckle.

”By the way did you find the card tucked inside the flower bouquet?“

Making me re-open my eyes and stare at him drowsily and almost half into dreamland. Damn, I was dreaming of unicorns. Maybe I can draw one and be a bit more creative later.

”What card? I didn’t see a card.“

”Hold on I’ll get it.“

Bryce puts my legs gently on the couch and gets up.

He comes back with a lavender envelope and hands it to me. I sit up a bit and open the card tucked inside.

I read over the words.

”Today is Valentine’s day and I know it’s not your favorite holiday. Would you still be mine? Because to be honest Lunes I’m a sucker for you. Now and always.“

-Bryce

I look up and grin at him before I beckon him with a finger to lean in closer to me.

When he does I pull him towards me by his shirt and give him my thanks in a kiss. A mix of slow and sweet, but passionate at the same time.

He grins against my lips. And when he pulls back a glaze has filled his eyes. He’s still high from my kiss. I wiggle my eyebrows at him. Which makes him dive in for another kiss cupping my face into his hands.

He slowly pulls away and looks at me. Before he gets something out of his back pocket. And when he opens his hand around the object he reveals a lavender velvet box.

I look up at him with wide eyes.

”B?“ I say a question in my eyes.

He turns red and clears his throat. Clearly he’s nervous.

”I know we’ve been engaged for some time now and I always felt bad because I didn’t give you a ring to wear.“

Before I could object that a ring doesn’t symbolize the love I have for him, he held up his hands and I closed my mouth shut.

”I know what you’re going to say so hear me out. When you asked me to marry you all those months ago I was so happy. I was going to ask you to marry me on the same day, but you moved first and asked me before I could ask you. Making that day the happiest day of my life. But when I prepared to ask you, I didn’t have a ring back then. I’ve been looking to give you a ring ever since. Something that says this is you. But I wasn’t lucky with finding one, and it’s been weighing on me. Because we’ve told everyone we’re engaged. We’ve booked your cousins wedding planning business to help organize our wedding. But I don’t know I felt bad that you didn’t have a ring to show for it. So that’s when I got the idea to pay your friend Jordan Miles a visit, you know the one who makes custom jewelry pieces. And I asked him to make you this.“

He opens the box and I gasp when I see the ring inside. Completely at a loss for words.

Its oval, white gold shape spoke immediately to me. A green gem nestled in the middle. Surrounded by a ring of white gold and pastel pink stones.

Bryce takes it out of the box and slips it onto my finger.

”Oh my god B. Why? When I asked you to marry me it wasn’t because I expected a ring and show it around. Not that I’m not going to showcase this baby.“

I wiggle my eyebrows and he laughs and kisses my hand with the ring displayed on it.

When he looks up I cup his face into my hands, I brush a strand of his longer getting hair out of his face. Gazing up at him, not having expected an engagement ring. It’s like I said I didn’t need a ring to show my love for Bryce. Love isn’t equal to materialistic things. It’s in the everyday of our lives. Sharing breakfast together, laughing about silly jokes. Falling asleep next to each other. That's love for me.

”What did I do to deserve you?“ I stare into his deep caramel brown eyes. Feeling so many emotions tugging at my heart. Focusing on the soft and mellow ones.

”You loved and accepted me for who I am. You make me a better person Lunes. I want to live out the rest of my life with you by my side and our beautiful twins,“ he puts his hands on my stomach and I cover them with mine.

”I love you B. More than anyone else. Because you take me with my flaws and all. I’ve never expected to feel this strongly about anyone. Yet here you are loving me every day, surprising me with flowers and gifts, not just on Valentine‘s day but every single day. I couldn’t be more happy to have you by my side.“

I trace my fingers over his soft lips as we smile at each other. Reveling in the feeling that this beautiful, successful, super hot man is mine. And that I’m his.

We’re completely encased in our own little bubble. Made of love, trust, and joy.

It’s moments like these that make me feel most alive.

When we’re together. Alone. With no interruptions. Just surrounded by the love that keeps pouring out of us and fills our souls with so much light.

Bonus:

[liaromancewriter]

The Reluctant Valentine

Premise: It’s Valentine’s Day, and Max can’t say no to his favorite girl.

Book: Open Heart (post series) Pairing: Sienna Trinh x Max Valentine (M!OC); feat. OC children Rating/Category: General. Fluff. Words: 1,600

A/N: Submission for @choicesficwriterscreations Valentine's Day event; @choicesmonthlychallenge To Be prompt, ILY; @choices-february2023 Day 14, Valentine's Day. I'm also using @choicesflashfics week 20, prompt 1 (in bold)

Sienna Valentine had always known this day would come. It was just a matter of time. In the ten years since she had married Max, he had only ever asked her for one thing. And she had agreed.

She had come to accept that Valentine’s Day would never be something he’d celebrate. In the grand scheme, it didn’t matter because he always showered her with love and affection. Not just on a single day in the year.

Still, she looked forward to seeing his face when he came home. It was mean of her, but she planned to have her phone ready to record his reaction in real time. And tease him about it endlessly.

Sienna had arrived home after a busy day at the clinic to find her children spread out across their two-story condo. She wanted to shut the world away on days like this and just be with her family. Her kids, though, were having none of it.

She found Noah engrossed in his video games upstairs and Belle playing dress-up with her dolls in her bedroom. Michael was in the playroom, enjoying nursery rhymes on the tablet. At the same time, Amelia was tucked in the crafts corner with glitter in her hair, glue on her fingertips, and a look that said she was busy and didn’t want to be disturbed.

Leaving their nanny, Mrs. Banks, to keep the peace a while longer, Sienna changed out of her work clothes. She put on comfortable jeans and a burgundy sweater that matched the recently added highlights in her hair.

She thought about pouring herself a glass of wine but decided she’d rather wait for Max. One of their favorite activities after putting the kids to bed was unwinding over a glass of wine, discussing their day and sometimes just making out.

The latter was probably the best part of the night. She grinned. After all, who needed words?

She took out leftover cookie dough from the refrigerator and laid it on the counter. A short while later, she slid a cookie sheet into the oven to bake. Dusting flour off her hands, she hung up the apron and reached inside the kitchen cabinets for plates and glasses.

Cookies and milk were a surefire way to get her children’s attention. Once the scent of vanilla and sugar was wafting through the air, they would come running on their own.

The oven timer buzzed, and she removed the baking sheet, setting it to cool on the rack. As predicted, she heard the clatter of running feet. First Noah, then Belle rushed into the kitchen, with Bailey bringing up the rear, her excited barks making the older children laugh.

“Cookies need ten more minutes to cool,” she called over her shoulder, adding Bailey’s doggie biscuits to her bowl. “Put your toys and things away first and then wash up.”

Knowing Noah and Belle would do as asked, she left the kitchen to check on Amelia. She knew her stubborn third child wouldn’t come until she was done.

Sienna entered the playroom and smiled at Michael lying flat on his back, giggling, his small, chubby hands trying to catch dust particles in the light. Mrs. Banks smiled when Sienna joined him on the playmat and tickled his tummy, enjoying the sounds and smells of her baby boy.

Not a baby for much longer, Sienna thought wistfully.

Amelia was still sitting on the small table and chair that was her crafts station, head bent over a pink card.

Sienna walked over to stand behind her. She brushed one hand down her daughter’s golden curls, and watched her finish printing her name inside.

She thought Noah must have helped her with the rest, recognizing her son’s cursive handwriting. Amelia hadn’t quite gotten a handle on using a glue stick; white sticky liquid dotted the edges. Sienna took one of the wooden sticks and gently removed the excess.

“Mommy, do you think Daddy will like silver sparkles or gold sparkles?” Amelia asked, looking up at her with all the seriousness of someone who needed to make a very important decision.

Sienna propped her chin on one hand while studying the handmade, heart-shaped card. There was already shiny red glitter sprinkled across the front of the card.

“Hmm,” she said, pondering deeply. “I think gold sparkles with red glitter look beautiful together. What do you think?”

Amelia pursed her lips and then nodded excitedly. “Red and yellow. Just like Tet!”

When Amelia reached for the glue stick and started to liberally spread it across the card, Sienna held the base of the cylinder, balancing it. She controlled the amount so it wouldn’t mess up the rest of the card and helped Amelia sprinkle gold tinsel and glitter until she was satisfied.

Sienna smiled in amusement as Amelia admired her handiwork. She supposed yellow was like gold.

This year had been Amelia’s first proper Tet, the Vietnamese New Year celebration, and no little girl could have enjoyed an occasion more. She especially liked receiving red envelopes filled with cash.

“I made cookies,” Sienna told Amelia. “Let’s go have cookies and milk, maybe take Bailey for a walk. Before you know it, Daddy will be home.”

She added the last when it appeared Amelia was going to argue.

Half an hour later, Sienna was enjoying cookies with her children and laughing as Noah shared something funny that had happened at school. Belle blushed when her brother teased her about the boy she had a crush on and who had apparently been the object of her Valentine’s Day card.

Vibrating with impatience, Amelia had one ear cocked towards the front of the apartment. Sienna thought if Amelia had a jet pack, she would bounce off the walls.

Before she could tell her to simmer down, Amelia jumped up, grabbed the card from the coffee table and ran towards the front hallway. Sienna could have sworn the little girl had bat ears, the way she picked up the sound of a key turning in the door.

She grabbed her phone from the counter, switched to the camera app, and followed quickly, not wanting to miss the moment.

Amelia launched herself at Max as soon as he walked through the door. Her sticky hands tightly wrapped around his trousered legs, likely leaving a mark on the expensive fabric.

“Daddy, you’re finally home! I’ve been waiting forever and ever and ever,” she cried out, tilting her head back to frown at him.

“Is that right?” Max chuckled, subtly rolling his eyes at Sienna at the dramatic statement.

He dropped his keys on the console, set his laptop case aside and reached down to lift Amelia up and into his arms. She looped one arm behind his neck, holding the card in her other hand.

Legs free, he kicked the door shut with one foot, not noticing that Sienna had already started filming the scene.

“Someone’s been in the cookie jar,” he teased, noting the chocolate smears around Amelia’s mouth. “Just what I like, little girls covered in chocolate.” He made chomping sounds and nibbled kisses from the corner of her mouth to her cheeks.

“Daddies don’t eat little girls, silly,” she giggled and hunched her shoulders against his mouth.

He paused, quirking one eyebrow. “Are you sure?”

“That’s an ogre,” Amelia said authoritatively.

“My mistake,” he said, hanging his head in shame. That’s when he noticed the card tucked in her hand. “What’s the card for? It’s not my birthday.”

Amelia took a deep breath, placed her palm on his jaw and stared solemnly into his green eyes, a mirror of hers.

“Daddy, will you be my valentine?”

Sienna laughed when Max looked poleaxed, gawking in shock at the red, pink and gold card Amelia shoved in his face.

While Noah had made her Valentine’s Day cards in school, Belle preferred giving them to her friends and cousins rather than her parents.

She wondered if this was the first Valentine’s card Max had ever received. But she suspected it wasn’t. Even if he didn’t celebrate as an adult, it didn’t stand to reason he had never done so. Or at least been on the receiving end of a Valentine’s Day crush.

Max glanced at Sienna, his eyes briefly narrowing in consternation before he wiped the expression off his face.

He took the card from an anxious Amelia and examined the front, oohing and aahing at the decorations. “Very sparkly,” he observed as he flipped it open to read her message.

“It’s red and yellow. Like Tet, remember?” Amelia explained. “Mommy said you liked golden sparkles more than silver.”

“I do like golden sparkles,” Max confirmed, looking up from the card. “They’re just like your hair.” He wrapped one golden curl around his finger. “See? Golden, just like my best girl.”

Amelia looked pleased with the compliment. Sienna thought her husband had a gift for charming women, young, old and in between.

“Do you really like it?” Amelia asked, her face resting next to his as father and daughter scrutinized the card.

“I not only love the card, but I love you, Amelia Mai,” he said with a soft kiss on her cheek. “The word ‘love’ doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of what I feel for you.”

Sienna could tell from Amelia’s face she didn’t fully understand, but she felt his love and hugged him tight.

“And to answer your question.” Max placed his finger under Amelia’s chin and gently lifted his daughter’s face to look her squarely in the eye. “I would be honored to be your Valentine.”

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

All Fics & Edits: @a-crepusculo @annfg8 @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @doriopenheart @genevievemd @headoverheelsforramsey @lucy-268 @jamespotterthefirst @jerzwriter @lady-calypso @mainstreetreader @takemyopenheart @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

Submissions: @openheartfanfics

Max & Sienna only: @aallotarenunelma @storyofmychoices

[jerzwriter]

An Ordinary Day

Book:                Wake the Dead

Pairing:            Eli Sipes x F!MC (Zoe Rivera)

Rating:             Teen

Category:        Super Fluff with a twinge of angst.

Summary:       Friends conspire to give Zoe and Eli a little downtime together, and Eli is determined to make it special.

Words:             1474

A/N:   I received this ask from @cariantha. The prompt was: it's their first date, and they realize it's Valentine's Day. I changed it up just a little bit. Given the world they live in, I don't think Valentine's Day or dating as we know it would exist, but I thought of a way to make it delightful them. I hope you like it. Participating in: @choicesficwriterscreations Valentine's Event; @choices-february2023 Day 14 Val Day or 18 Romance - you pick lol; @choicesholidays #11... but it could also be 1, 2, 6, 9, 10, 13 & 14. lol I love these two! 😊 Last, but not least, @choicesmonthlychallenge To Be... "Be Mine" "I'm Yours"

Zoe gingerly stepped out of the tub and wrapped a towel around her dripping, chestnut-brown hair. Grabbing another, she moved into her room and slowly dabbed her body dry. When the dim light from her tiny window captured her attention, she stopped to watch the sun as it descended in the sky. Going from amber, to burnt orange, to deep brown…then it was gone. An unfamiliar feeling washed over her… a sense of calming peace. But where it came from, she didn’t know.

The past few days had been filled with challenges. Infighting between the rival groups that made up Olympus was beginning to resurface, and it was a cause of great concern. She knew their strength lay in their unity, and their very existence would be threatened if people lost sight of that. In some ways, yesterday’s drone attack, a rarity during the winter months, was almost a blessing. It would have been a perfect wake-up call; if only the price hadn’t been so steep. Danger always surrounded them, and the threat of death was part of their daily existence. Still, it never became easier for Zoe. Especially during the placid winter months that offered the slightest bit of respite. Today, they lost one more.

It was Troy who stepped up. Taking Zoe aside after the burial, he informed her that her night shift was now his. He knew his best friend better than she knew herself, and he could tell the weight on her slight but strong shoulders was becoming too great to bear. Inspired by Troy’s kindness, Angel tapped Eli on the arm and said, “You have the night off, too. Go spend it with your girl.”  

Zoe didn’t fight them; the relief was instantly noticeable on her face. But Eli’s eyes went wide. It wasn’t that people didn’t know about him and Zoe… that was common knowledge now. But it was all still so surreal to him. His girl. He had a girl, and she had him, and they had friends…. family, really… the difference a year can make.   So while his instinct was to tell Angel he’d work his shift as planned, he stopped himself and even almost smiled. “Thank you,” the only words that came from his lips.

Zoe smiled contently as she slipped into her worn pajamas, a calming warmth filling her chest. It was so clear now… the reason she felt at peace. Regardless of the struggles and losses she endured, her blessings were many. And Eli and the love they shared was the greatest blessing of all.

Her heart felt light when he walked through the door. Some time alone, without any responsibilities… hopefully… was just what she needed. But her heart sank a little when she saw the look on his face; tense and troubled, she doubted he required the same thing too.

He gave her a sharp peck on the cheek and crossed the room. Falling into the corner chair, he fidgeted nervously and looked as if he wanted to speak, but the words never came. She needed him desperately, but she knew sometimes everyone needed to be alone. Hence, she spoke up quickly to offer him an out.

"Eli, the past few days have been tough, and as much as I’d love to be with you, if you need time alone, I understand. We could..."

Eli reached for her hand and gently tugged at her wrist, halting her words at once.

"Of course, I want to be with you, Zoe. It's just...."

"Just?"

His chest rose as he took a deep breath, exhaling slowly through his nose.

"Would you go out with me?”

Zoe was bewildered. A line formed between her brows. “Like on a date?” she giggled.

“Yes… and your laughing isn’t making this easier on me.”

That only made her giggle more, and she took his hands in hers.

“You’re nervous about asking me out on a date?”

“Yes!”

“Eli… you realize that you and I… we… we are together, right?”

“Of course we are!” He insisted.

“Then why are you nervous?”

“Because I’ve never asked anyone out,” he half smiled. “Could you go easy on me?”

“Why are you torturing yourself like this? No one asks anyone on dates anymore… where would they even go? People just sort of… come to be… like we did.”

“Yes, but you deserve better. And you haven’t answered me. Yes?”

For all the teasing she had been doling out, Eli didn’t miss how her cheeks turned crimson when she replied.   

“Of course, I’ll go out with you. But where are we going? We can’t go outside at night.”

“That’s why the date is right here,” he winked. Walking back to the door, he retrieved a bag he had left in the hallway. 

“What’s that?”

“Our date.”

He pulled out a large, plaid blanket and spread it on the floor, motioning for Zoe to join him. Delighted, she sat at his side and looped one of her arms in his.

“A bit forward for our first date,” he teased. “But if that’s what you want to do.”

“Hey!” She playfully nudged his shoulder. “I’m a liberated woman! Plus, we’ve already seen each other naked, so….”

Eli chortled with a shake of his head. Zoe was one of a kind, and sometimes, he still couldn’t believe she was his. He lit two candles, and a soft glow illuminated the room.   Then came out a plate of cookies and two bottles of milk.

“Cookies and milk!” she squealed, rubbing her hands together in anticipation.

“Special cookies,” he said, placing one in her hand.

“Special? How… they… they’re shaped like hearts!” She gasped. “Now, Eli Sipes, what would you have done if I had said no?”

“Eaten heart-shaped cookies alone in my room… and cried,” he chuckled.

“You wouldn’t have cried!” Zoe teased.

Eli tilted his head and looked her way, the sincerity in his eyes stealing Zoe’s breath away.

“If you had turned me down?” he whispered. “Don’t be so sure.”

Zoe bridged the space between them and gazed into his eyes. Her hand ran through his hair, then trailed down the side of his face, over every scar she had come to love so much. 

“I’ll never turn you down,” she breathed. “I hope you know that. I’d never turn you away.”

“I do,” he grinned, then stuck his hand back in the bag to retrieve one last item. He handed Zoe a wooden heart he had whittled himself. On one side, he etched, “Will you be my Valentine.” On the other side, a simple E & Z.

“Your Valentine?” She blushed.

“Yeah, you know about Valentine’s Day?” He asked, pulling her onto his lap. 

“Only a little. I know it was a big deal before the outbreak…” her eyes shot open. “Wait! Is that why you asked me out on a date? Is today Valentine’s Day?”

“According to that book about holidays that you love so much, yeah… today’s Valentine’s Day. I know how much you love learning about the old world, and this was a pretty big day then. So, I  thought it would be the perfect day for our official first date!”

“Eli Sipes!” She squealed, squeezing him in a tight hug. “I had no idea you were such a romantic!”

His face was nuzzled in her hair, and he inhaled deeply, taking in the sweet, delicate scent that was Zoe. Intoxicating, it was the only word that could describe it.

“For you,” he purred, running his hand down the side of her face. “Only for you.”

“I should hope so,” Zoe sang. “But I feel bad. I didn’t know, so I have nothing to give you.”

Cupping her cheek, Eli drew her closer to him until their lips met in a tender, loving kiss. 

“You’ve given me more than you’ll ever know,” he breathed. “And tonight, you have honored me by being my date.”

“So having cookies and milk with you is your gift.”

“Being with you is my gift. The best gift I’ve ever received.”

A million emotions coursed through her, and Eli watched as she began to tremble. Every moment of their lives… and the lives of those who loved them… had conspired to bring them here. All the struggles and sacrifice, the happiness and pain, the fighting and holding on when it would have been so easy to let go… it all brought them together… here.

A single tear ran down Zoe’s cheek, and Eli’s thumb was there in an instant to wipe it away. The same way he had watched his father brush away his mother’s tears years before.

“Are you OK?”

His voice guided her back to the present, and the rest of the world melted away. 

“I’m better than OK. I’m exactly where I was meant to be. Happy Valentine's Day, Eli.” 

“Happy Valentine’s Day.”

A/N 2: I hope I made the prompt work. Given that I HC Zoe has an obsession with the old world and its traditions (because poor baby girl just wanted a normal life), I thought this was sweet for them. Thank you for the ask, Cari!

Perma: @a-crepusculo @animesuck3r @annoyingmillenialnewbie @crazy-loca-blog @differenttyphoonwerewolf @doriopenheart @fayeswiftie @genevievemd @gryffindordaughterofathena @inlocusmads @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kingliam2019 @liaromancewriter @lucy-268 @onikalover @openheartforeverinmyheart @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @secretaryunpaid @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction @jerzwriter-reblogs-asks

WTD Only: @kyra75 @cariantha @lilyoffandoms @missameliep

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Valentine's Day 2023 Masterlist

Thank you to all who participated in our 2023 Valentine's Event! As previously announced, the March 2023 Writer of the Month will be selected from those who participated here. We'll make the selection and the winner will be announced in early March. Sending you all an abundance of love! 💕💕💕

EVENT POST

IT LIVES ANTHOLOGY

A Cozy Valentine | (ILB) Pilvi Vance x Parker Shaw - @noesapphic

Date Night | (ILITW) Stacy Green x M!MC - @korgbelmont

Raspberry Rose | (ILITW) Dan Pierce x F!MC - @aallotarenunelma

OPEN HEART

Abundance | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Accidental Valentine | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @cariantha

After Dark: Part 2 | Bryce Lahela x F!OC - @storyofmychoices

Afternoon Delight | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @coffeeheartaddict2

The Art of Doing Nothing | Ethan Ramsey x M!MC - @dr-colossal-pita

Bittersweet | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @coffeeheartaddict2

Death Stare | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @headoverheelsforramsey

Feel Good Inc | Ethan Ramsey, F!MC - @inlocusmads

Flowers | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @jamespotterthefirst

I'm a Sucker for You | Bryce Lahela x F!OC - @peonierose

Love in all Forms | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @coffeeheartaddict2

Love, Slitheens, & Klingon | Ethan Ramsey, F!MC - @inlocusmads

A Mixed-Up Valentine | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

No One Else... (Part 1 of 2) | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Not the Right Person | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @lucy-268

The Reluctant Valentine - @liaromancewriter

Rose All Day - @peonierose

Simple Pleasures | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

Special Surprise | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @potionsprefect

Stained Glass & Stuffed Animals | Aurora Emery x Sienna Trinh- @peonyblossom

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

Valentine Blues | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @genevievemd

Valentine Memories | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @liaromancewriter

A Valentine's Surprise | Ethan Ramsey x F!MC - @peonyblossom

RED CARPET DIARIES

Above & Beyond | Thomas Hunt x F!MC - @peonyblossom

The Universe Gave Y'all to Me| Thomas Hunt x NB!MC - @peonyblossom

THE ROYAL ROMANCE

Complicated Couples: Applewood | Various Pairings - @angelasscribbles

Happy Galentine's Day | TRR F!MC, others - @bebepac

Smoke & Mirrors Chapter 4: As the Smoke Clears - @tessa-liam

WAKE THE DEAD

An Ordinary Day | Eli Sipes x F!MC - @jerzwriter

[coffeeheartaddict2]

Bittersweet

Book: Open Heart (book 1)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!mc Casey Valentine.

Featuring: Naveen Banerji, Teresa Martinez

Category: Angsty fluff

Rating: PG bordering Mature

Warnings: mentions of masturbation, alcohol consumption

Word count: 978

Summary: it’s Valentines intern year and it is about a month after Miami and things are still fraught between Casey and Ethan. Casey endeavours to cheer up Naveen.

Disclaimer: characters belong to Pixelberry.

Authors note 1: submission for CFWC Valentine’s Day event: prompts used: Ignoring the day/drowning of sorrows

💔💔💔💔💔💔💔

14th February 2019.

Valentine’s Day. A day that be generally tried to forget. Sure he had on occasion celebrated with Harper occasionally in the past but this year he was more determined to avoid the holiday. Miami was a month ago and he knew that if he had given in it would be different but here he was only chatting to her for work and Naveen related issues. She had confronted him in the lab about his true feelings. He wanted her yes but she was forbidden. Again all the reasons go around in his head. He knows he is doing right by her to remain in this purgatory.

He makes the journey to the construction zone. He starts schooling his features now for he knows that Naveen has his suspicions. As he gets closer he hears laughter. He stops as it is Casey with him. After collecting his thoughts he proceeds.

“Good morning Dr Valentine, Naveen.” He said gruffly.

“Well happy Valentine’s Day to you too, my boy.” Said Naveen.

“Thank you for the cupcakes my dear.”

“My pleasure Naveen, I am glad I was able to provide some cheer today.” Said Casey, glaring pointedly at Ethan.

“I best go and get ready for rounds.”

Casey gives Naveen a a hug and a sad smile at Ethan.

“And what are your plans for Valentine’s Day?” Questioned Naveen.

“You know how I feel about the holiday Naveen.”

“Yes I do but surely there is someone worthy of your affections…hmmm?”

Ethan groans and pinches the bridge of his nose.

“I’ll be back later Naveen.” He says hastily.

“We’ll be sure to at least show Dr Valentine some appreciation today.” Naveen said with a slight chuckle.

He walked down the hall and leant against a wall to collect himself. He has been appreciative of all the extra work that Casey had been putting in, despite the train wreck that Miami turned into but he did not want anything to be taken the wrong way. He groaned and made his way back to the hospital.

He happens upon Mrs Martinez. He smiles and greets her warmly.

“My dear Ethan, I am sure you will receive many valentines today? Do you have a special someone this year?”

“No and No Teresa, you know my disdain for this day. You have a lovely day though.”

He returns to his office. There is an email from Harper reminding him about that meeting tomorrow with Declan. He had hoped there would be a way out of it but alas there was not. The treatment was having mixed levels of success. He could not lose Naveen but he was starting to wonder if doing a deal with the devil was worth it. He was uneasy about it all.

He sat there for a few minutes and his mind wandered to Casey. Perhaps Naveen is right, he should show his appreciation for the extra work that Casey has been putting in but as much as he wants to he knows he can not. It is just a neurochemical response he tells himself.

Meanwhile Casey has had a mixed day. She has gotten into the spirit of the day with her friends, she also gave Mrs Martinez some cupcakes. She was cautiously optimistic of the heist working tomorrow. She still had some charts go missing and that was bugging her. Her thoughts then turn to how fraught things have been between her and Ethan of late. She gets the reasoning besides not liking it but she can see how much he still wants her. She knew they could never be casual and a part of her wished she was not on top of the competition currently otherwise she would drop out but doing so now would raise more questions not to mention supply the rumour mill with far too many rumours and that was the last thing she wanted. She groans in frustration and heads home.

Later that evening Ethan is at home, alone. Drinking his scotch and reading a medical journal to find some more inspiration to help cure Naveen. But he can not focus, wishing that Casey was here. They had not met at the apartment since Miami, it was a ploy to keep things professional but he missed her. Both professionally and personally. He then trailed to the non professional feelings and it dawns on him, they could not be separated. His mind wanders again to Miami and that kiss, the body, that dress, the noises she made for him. As soon as his mind went here he shut the journal. Anymore research now would be fruitless. He went to the bathroom to have a shower, instead of trying to kill the erection with a cold shower he decided to pleasure himself. It was bittersweet, sure the edge had been taken off but he wanted Casey even though he could not have her.

Across town at Casey’s apartment, she could not sleep. Her mind is going through all the possible scenarios for tomorrow. Her mind strays to Ethan. She wishes she could tell him but she did not want to put his career in jeopardy if it went pear shaped. How she wished she was with him now. She knew they were not getting much headway into Naveen’s case and she knew he needed her, not just as a medical intern but as a friend. Then her thoughts go to Miami, that kiss and how she knows that they can not just be friends. She feels a a pool of heat at her core. She reaches for her drawer and grabs her vibrator. At least this will help me get some sleep she thinks to herself as she once again wishes it was Ethan making her cum, not just the thought of him.

Authors note: And we all know what happened with Mrs Martinez eventually.

Tagging: @jerzwriter @jamespotterthefirst @genevievemd @potionsprefect @liaromancewriter @cariantha @tessa-liam @bex-la-get @crazy-loca-blog @a-crepusculo @binny1985 @schnitzelbutterfingers

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

[choicesficwriterscreations]

Afternoon Delight

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Casey Valentine

Category: fluff

Rating: General audiences

Warnings: allusions to potential adult activities

Summary: It is Valentine’s Day, and Ethan sends Casey a cake to help get her through the afternoon.

By @coffeeheartaddict2

[choicesficwriterscreations]

A Valentine Surprise

A Valentine's Surprise

Book: Open Heart (post-series) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Sadie Oakley) Other Characters: Daisy Ramsey, Blake Ramsey, & Chloe Ramsey Words: 810 Category: Domestic fluff Rating: General AO3 link here Summary: Ethan is woken up early by his daughter, who needs his help making a Valentine's Day surprise for her mom. A/N #1: I am so sorry it took me so long to get to this, but thank you so much for sending it! A/N #2: For @choicesficwriterscreations Valentine's Day event

[liaromancewriter]

New Year Wishes

Premise: New Year’s Day is a special time for making wishes that come true.

Book: Open Heart (post series) Pairings: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Words: 1,435

A/N: Submission for @choicesjanuary2024 Day 1 writing exercise prompt; for @choicesholidays New Year and @choicesficwriterscreations holiday event. I'm using @choicesflashfics week 66, prompt 1.

Part 1: The Legend

The first snowflake fell, and with it, a new tradition began. Inside the mansion by the sea, Christmas decorations hung across the mantel. The star above the tree in the corner twinkled when the weak rays of a winter sun briefly shone through the window panes.

It was the first day of a new year, and the air was full of possibilities, like magic on a moonlit night. Flames crackled in the fireplace, spreading its warmth toward the family of four sitting by the hearth.

Four-year-old Cassie Valentine rubbed her sleepy eyes as she cuddled on her mother’s lap, content with the familiar scent and feel of her mom’s arms around her. When she heard a loud yawn, she squinted at her twin brother Max, who was similarly nestled against their father’s chest.

His blond hair was messy, flopping over his forehead; his face was practically hidden in their dad’s big arms. One green eye popped open as if sensing her gaze, and he smiled sleepily at her.

The twins protested when their parents removed them from their comfortable position and onto the shaggy rug in front of the fireplace. Cassie leaned into Max’s side, curling her legs beneath her, and yawned widely. She rested her face on her brother’s shoulder and closed her eyes.

She wasn’t sure why her parents had woken them up so early or carried them down to the family room. It wasn’t Christmas morning. She knew because Santa had already brought her and Max presents last week.

“Cass honey, wake up,” Daddy said gently, lifting her head and brushing his hand down her hair. “Your mom and I have a surprise for the two of you.”

The word ‘surprise’ made Max perk up and sit straight in attention.

“Do you know what today is?” Mommy asked, her eyes crinkled around the corners as she smiled.

They shook their heads, and she continued. “It’s New Year’s Day. Legend has it that if you make a wish, write it on a piece of paper and throw it into the fire, it will come true. Isn’t that right, Robert?”

“My old nanny told me it was so.” Cassie saw her father smile in a dreamy way she didn’t quite recognize. “And she was right. When I was your age, I wished for a life full of adventure. Then, one day, many years later, your mother spilled her drink on me. I haven’t been bored since.”

“Robert!” Mommy gasped in shock before throwing her head back in laughter and then leaning in to kiss him on the lips.

Cassie giggled, and Max groaned, making gagging sounds.

“Six years of adventure, my love,” Mommy said softly, resting her head on Daddy’s forehead. “Every day, I fall in love with every little thing that you do.”

Cassie watched her parents gaze into each other’s eyes and thought there must be something to this wish legend. And if Daddy was right, she was definitely wishing for a puppy.

Part 2: The Wish

Many years later, in an elegant condo overlooking Boston’s waterfront, Ethan Ramsey propped himself up on one elbow and leaned over his wife. He ran his finger down her cheek and brushed aside a wisp of hair that fell over her face.

“Time to wake up, love,” he murmured, watching as Cassie’s eyes drifted open.

The fogginess gradually disappeared, dreams faded and reality intruded.

“What time is it?” she asked, yawning.

“Almost eight,” he said, his lips tracing the slope of her shoulder.

The strap of her nightgown slid down her arm, almost baring her breast, and he peppered kisses along her exposed collarbone.

“We don’t have time for you to seduce me,” she protested, even as a moan escaped her lips when his hands eased the bodice down to expose her breasts to his heated gaze and pushed the gown lower.

“I’ll be quick,” he said, covering her body with his and nudging her thighs apart with his knee.

Ethan snagged her bottom lip between his teeth and nipped it before slanting his lips over hers. He’d just started to kiss his way down her body when he heard the sound of running feet.

Ethan barely had time to throw the covers on top of Cassie’s naked body when the bedroom door slammed open.

“It’s Wish Day! It’s Wish Day!”

Their five-year-old twin daughters, Sophie and Eloise, rushed in, singing the words excitedly at the top of their lungs.

“Daddy, you’re not wearing a shirt!” Sophie giggled.

“Girls, what have we said about knocking?” Ethan swung his legs off the bed to sit up and glared at them over his shoulder.

From the corner of his eye, he saw Cassie wriggle under the covers and then ease her back up against the headboard, the silky straps of her nightgown back in place.

“Knock first, wait for an answer and then enter,” they parroted the oft-repeated words while gazing innocently at him.

“And did you do that now?” Cassie asked, lips twisting in a half-smile as her eyes met Ethan’s exasperated expression.

“We forgot,” they said with a pout.

They launched themselves on the bed before Ethan could scold them further and started jumping up and down.

“B’sides, it’s Wish Day, Daddy,” Eloise giggled as she crashed into her sister. “It’s tra…trad…,” she stumbled over the words, “tratidition.”

“Tradition,” Ethan corrected automatically, padding into the walk-in closet.

He thought privately that his daughters were just as stubborn about celebrating traditions as their mother.

“Mommy, get up. We’ve been waiting forever to make our New Year wishes!” Sophie’s laughter mingled with her sister’s as they both bounced higher.

“Not too high, girls,” Cassie called out worriedly. “Ethan?”

Ethan returned to the bedroom, tugging a tee shirt over his head and down. He grabbed Eloise mid-bounce and then Sophie, holding each girl under his arms as if carrying a football.

They giggled when he adjusted his stance to accommodate their weight, jostling them in the process.

Cassie shook her head at their antics and shoved aside the covers to climb off the bed. She reached for the robe folded on the ottoman at the foot of the bed, and his eyes locked on the top of her breasts framed enticingly between the vee of her gown’s neckline.

She caught his stare and arched one brow. “To be continued tonight?”

After a quick glance at their daughters, now preoccupied with whispering to each other, he smirked.

“I’ll get them settled while you freshen up. Don’t take too long or…,” Ethan grinned lasciviously, scanning her from chest to crotch, “…else.”

Almost twenty minutes later, the four of them settled in front of the fireplace. Ethan wrapped one arm around Cassie’s shoulder while hers slid around his waist. The twins were nestled between them, their tiny bodies practically vibrating with excitement.

“Ready to make your New Year wish?” Cassie asked.

Eloise looked questioningly at her sister. Sophie nodded in confirmation. They both turned around and stared at their parents. Ethan noted their thoughtful expression and wondered what that was about.

“If we both make the same wish, does it come true twice?” Eloise asked.

“We want a dog,” Sophie piped in.

Ethan grinned when Cassie muttered, “Get in line” under her breath.

He knew a puppy had been on her wish list for years. In fact, if he recalled the tale correctly, it was her first wish when Robert and Olivia started the annual New Year wishes tradition.

“Why don’t you send the wish into the fireplace? You never know when the universe will grant your wish,” he added, keeping his face neutral when Cassie hissed, “Hogwash!”

“It might take years,” Eloise said, angling her head sideways as if lost in thought.

“Just like it took forever and ever for Grandpa Robbie to get his wish when he met Grandma Livvy,” Sophie added excitedly. “El, we’re getting a dog for sure!”

“And another tradition continues,” Cassie laughed as the girls babbled excitedly while scribbling their wishes on paper.

Ethan rolled his eyes in exasperation. “Times like this, they’re more Valentine than Ramsey.”

“I disagree,” Cassie snorted, laughter in her eyes. “But then I’m biased since I fell in love with a Ramsey.”

Ethan gently grasped her chin and lifted her face to gaze into her eyes. His mouth lowered and captured her lips in a tender, heart-wrenching kiss, losing himself in the magic of the moment.

Eloise and Sophie stopped writing to watch their parents kissing, shared a furtive glance and silently giggled. Forget the dog. Maybe they would get a brother instead.

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