#choicesjuly2022challenge

[choicesjuly2023challenge]

Week 1 Masterlist

Crimes of Passion Farewell, Rose | Trystan Thorne x f!MC (Nora Rose) | by @inlocusmads

Desire and Decorum You're my oasis | Princes Hamid x f!OC (Elizabeth Foredale) | by @missameliep

Open Heart A Unique Blend | Ethan Ramsey & Tobias Carrick | by @jerzwriter

Baby Talk | Tobias Carrick x f!MC (Casey MacTavish) | by @jerzwriter

By Your Side | Tobias Carrick x f!MC (Casey MacTavish) | by @jerzwriter

DTI Fanart | Tobias Carrick x f!MC (Casey MacTavish) | by @jerzwriter

Four | Sienna Trinh x m!OC (Max Valentine) | by @liaromancewriter

ME! | Tobias Carrick x f!MC (Casey MacTavish) | by @jerzwriter

Missing You | Sienna Trinh x m!OC (Max Valentine) | by @liaromancewriter

Play Time | Tobias Carrick x f!MC (Casey MacTavish) | by @jerzwriter

The Beauty Inside | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Dr. Meera Bose) | by @headoverheelsforramsey

The Perfect Gift: For Your Eyes Only | Tobias Carrick x f!MC (Casey MacTavish) | by @jerzwriter

You Weren't Meant For Me | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Cassie Valentine) | by @liaromancewriter

You're On... Again | Tobias Carrick x f!MC (Casey MacTavish) | by @jerzwriter

Red Carpet Diaries A Reminder | Thomas Hunt x f!MC (Alex Hunt) | by @theartoflovingthomashunt

Stars and Stripes | Thomas Hunt x f!MC (Alex Hunt) | by @theartoflovingthomashunt

[lorirwritesfanfic]

Hello! Thank you so much for participating in the July Monthly Challenge! I love Miss Annabelle Parsons so much so I was very excited to see her featured in your submission. 💕

Hi there! Thank you so much for hosting the event! I miss Annabelle Parsons dearly. I hope I have more time to write a full story for her in the near future.

[liaromancewriter]

Handful

Premise: Ethan’s on baby duty and the twins have a surprise for him.

Book: Open Heart (post series) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: General. Fluff. Words: 710

A/N: This fic was requested by @simbralia, prompt 16 (Person B - being usually the stoic one - somehow managing to evoke a laughing fit in the baby) from this list. 

Submission to @choicesjuly2022challenge Day 28 prompt “Kid Fic”. Also submitting to @choicesficwriterscreations Please Be Prompt, week 2 fluff.

Dr. Ethan Ramsey had a certain reputation among his colleagues, peers, and terrified interns alike of being austere, demanding, and a cynical so-and-so on occasion. They said that he’d once ripped apart the AMA president’s research, causing the poor man to resign in disgrace.

But the two pairs of mulish green eyes staring up at him didn’t seem to care about any of that. They were also not impressed by his handling of the situation, pursing their lips and turning their tiny heads away as they (most likely) complained about him to each other in whatever language babies used.

The twins were almost four months old now and the experts called these the enchanted months. As far as he was concerned, those experts hadn’t met the Ramsey twins or else they would have revised their opinion.

He was on baby duty while Cassie went for her first run in a long time. He knew she’d missed running while pregnant and had been chomping at the bit to get out there once she received the all-clear from her doctor.

The twins had been asleep when she left and he had been using the alone time to catch up on the latest journal articles. When he heard their thin cries echo over the baby monitor, he knew the quiet time was over.

Then he made the cardinal sin of being just a few minutes too late to suit them. Their whimpers had turned into full blown wailing by the time he entered the nursery.

Well used to the routine by now, he checked and changed their wet diapers (grateful they had only been wet and nothing else). They wiggled the whole time, apparently punishing him for his tardiness, so that he had to hold them down with one arm.

“Come on, you two,” he said sternly. “You’ve had your fun. Now behave yourselves.”

They continued to troll him, alternating between hitting his forearm with their tiny feet and grumbling at him. So, he quickly completed the task at hand, taping the sides of Sophie’s diaper before repeating the process with Eloise. They settled down enough for him to dress them up in clean onesies, popping the buttons in place with a sigh of relief.

He discarded the soiled clothes and diapers while keeping one eye on the twins as they babbled to each other on the changing table. He noticed how Eloise smiled at her sister while Sophie waved her hands expressively, almost as if telling a story.

Olivia had mentioned once how Cassie and Max had been the same as babies, happy in their own company with a unique way of communicating. As far as Ethan could tell, nothing much had changed as adults.

Lost in thought as he looked out the window, it took him a few minutes to realize the twins had gone quiet. Too quiet. And then the smell hit him. Foul and so pungent that he had to pinch his nostrils closed to prevent it invading his senses.

His litany of curses bounced off the walls making them laugh. Flabbergasted, he stared down at the twins, noting an almost calculating glint in their eyes as they watched him back.

“You couldn’t have done that before I cleaned you up?��

He watched in consternation as their faces scrunched and then they both let out another foul-smelling load. Their peals of laughter soon followed before they turned sideways to face each other, cooing the whole time.

“Christ.” He somehow guessed that this was their way of getting back at him for the ‘behave yourselves’ remark.

Hands on his hips, he surveyed his daughters who were relishing in his discomfort, smiling and giggling, their small bodies vibrating with amusement. And then rolled up the sleeves of his shirt to begin anew the work of getting them cleaned up.

“I've seen that smile before,” he mused, the severity on his face at odds with the amusement in his voice as he bent over them, lifting them by the feet to wipe their bums clean. “You two are going to be a handful, aren’t you?”

First Eloise and then Sophie shoved a tiny fist into his mouth. And that, as far as they were concerned, was that.

All Fics & Edits: @potionsprefect @trappedinfanfiction @bex-la-get @mysticalgalaxysstuff @genevievemd @choicesaddict5 @jerzwriter @rookiemartin @schnitzelbutterfingers @vi-writes-stuff @coffeeheartaddict2 @quixoticdreamer16 @dorisz @zahrachoices @lucy-268 @a-crepusculo @jamespotterthefirst @ofmischiefandmedicine @headoverheelsforramsey @takemyopenheart @gryffindordaughterofathena @queencarb @crazy-loca-blog @natureblooms24 

Ethan & Cassie only: @custaroonie @lady-calypso​

@openheartfanfics​ 

[storyofmychoices]

Right Up My Alley

[Ethan Ramsey x Ellie Shepherd Masterlist] [Love & Scotch]

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Ellie Shepherd (F!MC) Others: Alex Spencer (almost Hunt) (Hollywood U), Bryce Lahela Book: Open Heart Rating: General, PictaEdit, silly fluff Word Count: ~350 Prompt: @choicesjuly2022challenge: Social Media ; @choicesficwriterscreations "I've seen that smile before."

Synopsis: Ellie makes an unexpected discovery about Ethan's past.

"What's this?"

"What's what?" 

Ellie fished in the back of his closet, pulling out a black and white collared shirt that caught her eye. "Uh, this."

His eyes widened, jaw-dropping at the discovery.

"Do you bowl? Were you—were you in a bowling league?"

His face fell in his hand, shaking his head to the sides. "I forgot I still had that." 

"I can't even picture it. Ethan Ramsey in a bowling league!"

"It was med school," he offered reluctantly. "A way to relieve stress."

"I don't think I've been bowling since I was like ten at a birthday party." Ellie marveled, staring at the shirt, a wide smile growing across her face. "Med Zeppelin?" She chuckled as she read the team name drawn across the back of the shirt. "I didn't peg you for a Ledhead."

He sighed grudgingly, "Needless to say, I didn't name the team."

"Oh, yeah. How about this? King Pin?" She arched a brow at him, reading the nickname embroidered on the chest. "Really?"

"It was that or Mr. 300, which I must admit was preferable until you score less than 300 and never hear the end of it," he lamented. 

"Really? You bowled a 300! This I've got to see!" 

"It was a long time ago." The corner of his mouth turned up at the memory.

"Doesn't have to be!" She jumped up and held the shirt up to his chest. 

"Ellie."  

"Yes?" A mischievous glint glittered in her eyes as she found the shirt would still fit.

“I’ve seen that smile before—"

"And?" She fluttered her eyelashes at him, feigning innocence.

His gaze narrowed at her. "It means...trouble." 

"No trouble. Just a new way to stay cool and enjoy our day together." She leaned forward on the balls of her feet and pressed a kiss to his cheek. She patted his chest. "We leave in 10 minutes, and yes, you must wear the shirt. I need to see you in your full glory... my sexy King Pin!" With a wink she skipped out of the room, getting ready herself.

If you made it this far, thank you for reading. I was thinking about ways to stay cool and have fun during our heatwave and I had this random idea about going bowling. Then, decided it would be a fun fic for someone and I chose Ethan and Ellie. When I went to make a cover image for the story, I found these perfect pictures and videos of Gandy that fit.

Alex Spencer (Thomas Hunt's fiancee in my Hollywood U au) is friends with Ethan and Ellie as established in my Love & Scotch series which I promise to finish one day.

I also headcanon that Ethan in my AU only has 3 followers on Pictagram: Ellie, Alex, and Thomas Hunt. He denies everyone else.

[potionsprefect]

Fairy and the Captain

A new outfit, means a pictagram post

For @choicesjuly2022challenge day 29 “fairy”

Tag list: @ohchoices @openheartfan @queencarb @genevievemd @dragons-wiz @choicesaddict5 @schnitzelbutterfingers @alina-yol-ramsey @stygianflood @malaksamy1912 @gryffindordaughterofathena @rookie-ramsey @sophxwithers @romewritingshop @coffeeheartaddict2 @mm2305 @nikki-2406 @maurine07 @nishas-paradise @replayfootsteps @mainstreetreader @anntoldst0ries @lsvdw-blog @kiara-36 @quixoticdreamer16 @udishaman @headoverheelsforramsey @shanzay44 @itsjustamesshonestly @josiesopenheart @mysticalgalaxysstuff @custaroonie @ireneadlerisseggsy @takemyopenheart @kachrisberry @rookiemartin @jamespotterthefirst @a-crepusculo @natureblooms24 @jerzwriter @wanderingamongthewildflowers @rosebudde @lucy-268 @liaromancewriter @bex-la-get @writer-ish @toadfrog26 @tessa-liam

[missameliep]

You're my oasis (Desire and Decorum AU! - Prince Hamid x OC)

Book: Desire and Decorum - Modern AU 

Pairing: Hamid Osmanoglu x Elizabeth Foredale (OC)

Rating: PG (tw: kissing)

Word count: 1.8k 

Summary: Fast-forward to a couple of weeks into their new and unlabelled relationship, Hamid is coming back to London earlier from a trip because all he wants is to see his not-girlfriend Elizabeth.

Notes:

Prince Hamid belongs to Pixelberry;

This fic belongs to the Second Chances-verse;

Fic inspired by the prompt: "I could kiss you for hours" by @screnwriter (kissing starters);

This is my late submission to Day 02: ladybug | potion | Love Confession of @choicesjuly2022challenge (thanks for hosting it @peonyblossom ☺️);

English is not my first language.

I dedicate this fic to my dear friend and birthday girl @lorirwritesfanfic - my dearest, I know this is not a Damid fic, but I hope some fluff for Elizabeth x Hamid makes you smile today. I'm wishing you the happiest of birthdays and many wonderful things. Happy birthday! 🥳🎂💐🎉🧁🎁💝

The cab parked outside the building, Hamid paid the driver and got out with the carry-on luggage. The moment he stepped into the pavement, he pulled at the lapel of his overcoat to protect his neck from the gust of wind. He was back at London.

He was home.

His gaze travelled upwards, hoping the lights at his flat would be on, indicating Elizabeth’s presence. The brightness in his room prompted the corners of his lips to pull in an unabashed smile that almost reached his ears.

Ten days.

This is the longest they’ve been apart since their friendship morphed into this new and unlabelled relationship. The ache and longing in his heart indicate it was too soon to be away from her now that they finally got together. However, considering how much he yearns for her, would it ever be any different? He hopes not. Why would he ever want this flame inside his chest to die off?

Anyone who’s ever been in love can understand the feeling and why he’s changed his flight back to London. Not his mother, of course. Even though the odds of her being understanding about his choice were practically zero to begin with, he was not expecting her to be so vocal and make it everyone's problem. Last minute changes of plans were a common occurrence when it comes to Raisa's only son, but he assumes the issue is not so much about missing two days of his company rather than why he's going back earlier.

His sisters, on the other hand, were all but supportive. Not only did they book this flight for him, but Malak drove him to the airport and with Nesrim gave him plenty of relationship advice to not mess things up despite never even meeting Elizabeth personally. This is the first time in many years his sisters are invested in one of his relationship, and this being the one brings him immense joy.

From the pavement he sprinted inside the building, shoe soles clicking sharply against the lobby’s floor, making one of his neighbours jump with surprise on his way out of the lift with his Pomeranian. The tiny bouncing ball of fluff almost entangled its leash around Hamid’s legs in its eagerness to go outside, while he was crowding the way with his luggage.

Chuckling, Hamid apologised, getting out of the way, and rushed into the lift once it’s empty.

His eyes stare at the numbers at the display. 1.

2.

Was it always this slow?

3.

His fingers unbutton his overcoat quickly and he shrugs it off. His body is tingling with anticipation. He’s practically bouncing inside the metal box.

When could he ever imagine coming home would become so thrilling, something he longs for!

When the doors finally open, instead of rolling the luggage, he pulls it up from the floor and dashes forward, stopping a few metres before getting to the end of the hallway where the flat is located. Taking a deep breath, his fingers pull his dark hair back, and he walks carefully to not give away he’s getting home, because catching Elizabeth by surprise is one of his favourite things, and even more so watching her comfortably lounging in his place, unaware of his gaze. It always makes him think about a more permanent arrangement, one where she would stay.

Too soon, he chides himself.

The same cautious procedure is adopted when he slips out of his shoes and unlocks the door. With a soft click he closes it behind him, leaving his shoes, overcoat and luggage by the door without a second thought.

Gliding in his socks, he discerns the light by the end of the corridor in the otherwise dark flat.

Softly, the song Bir Pazar Kahvaltısıpop plays in the bedroom, and he smiles at the realization she’s probably listening to the playlist he made for her when they were just friends but he wished to be so much more.

When he reaches the door, he lingers in silence, enjoying the view: sitting cross-legged at the bed, Elizabeth's hair is pulled up in a high bun, she's wearing his orange jumper, which hangs loose on her smaller frame, the sleeves much too large for her arms, yet completely perfect. An open notebook lies on her lap and her eyes are fixed on the e-reader in one hand. Without tearing her eyes off from what she’s reading, her free hand gently strokes his cat Leia, who sleeps curled against her thigh. Staring at the scene, his smile becomes a wide grin at how absolutely perfect this is.

His heart is full of what he hasn’t declared with proper words - at least not ones in a language she can understand. Despite being eager to confess his love in all the languages he’s familiar with, he knows he should wait for the perfect occasion. Wait until she's comfortable with the changes and to not shy her away. He'll wait until she's ready.

However, waiting becomes more challenging by the day.

His sisters, who know him better than anyone, saw right through him and recognized the way his heart was not in most things he was doing these past days. Not that he was unhappy to spend days with his family, on the contrary. He had a wonderful time with all of them and particularly with his nephew; Cemil is such an energetic baby and hearing him say Hamid dayı just made his days brighter. He definitely enjoyed meeting his friends from university and partying with Kerem and Ozan in their fancy home with their glamourous friends at Muğla. But even at times like those, when he was completely in his element, his mind drifted to Elizabeth. Every funny joke or awestruck sight he wished to share with her. Whenever they texted and video chatted, he wished they were together. The evening she fell asleep before he could call her was dreadful. He needed to hear her voice like he needs air. He longed to be with her like he never longed to be with anyone else. He missed even the most mundane activities they did together, like going grocery shopping or binge-watching series in his couch.

Now that he’s here and she’s at the reach of his hands, it’s like completing a puzzle. His heart soars.

His presence seems to draw Leia’s attention. The cat’s blue eyes flutter open and she sniffs the air for a second, then stretches her paws, curling her back and launches herself to the floor, meowing loudly in his direction, like she always does when he comes back home.

Startled by the sudden movement and noise, Elizabeth’s gaze tears from the reading to follow the cat and find Hamid standing by the door with one of his bright and perfect smiles.

“Hey,” he says softly, eyes shining with adoration. “Is that my jumper?” His index finger points at her, and her eyes widen.

“You’re back!” the surprise echoing in her voice makes her statement sound more like a question.

“Did you miss me?”

Placing the e-reader down, she slides off the bed. In her eagerness, she forgets about the notebook in her lap, that drops with a dull thump to the floor, startling them. But it’s not enough to break the spell.

Moving around the outraged cat, Hamid starts in her direction, and she lunges forward to meet his open arms.

His arms encircle her tightly around the waist, pulling her body flush against his chest, and he twirls her around. A little squeal escapes her lips. The bedroom is filled with the sounds of their laughs, and the protests of the cat before Leia scurries away.

When he puts Elizabeth down, she throws her arms around his neck and gaze up at him with a joyful smile that crinkles the corners of her eyes.

Allah, she looks even more beautiful than when I left!

He dips his head and kisses her, his Elizabeth.

His soft lips glide against hers smoothly, and she sighs with contentment. At first, they are smiling too much into the kiss to enjoy it properly. It takes but a moment for them to adjust and revel on each other's touch.

Elizabeth is an oasis. Like a thirsty man who braved the inhospitable desert, he returns to her, drinking her in, his only need.

Raising on her tiptoes, she returns the gesture with similar passion. Delving her fingers into the hair of the back of his head, she keeps their faces close, until breathless they must part.  

Pulling away just enough to look into her eyes, he cups her cheeks, grinning. “I’m assuming the answer to my question is ‘yes’…”

“Less talking and more kissing, dude,” she chides him, but there’s only glee in her tone.

“As you wish,” he whispers and closes the gap between them to pepper her lips, jaw and neck with another round of kisses, increasingly longer and more passionate.

He inhales deeply, her perfume mixed with his own, and he sighs against her neck, “I could kiss you for hours.”

“I would like that very much,” she whispers. “Unfortunately, I have a test tomorrow morning…”

“I consider awfully rude of your professor to schedule a test when I have plans to make up for lost time…”

“I’m sure Mrs. Larsson can be blamed for a number of things, but definitely not for this, considering you were not supposed to be back at London before Saturday afternoon…” she jokes, stroking his hair. “I’m not complaining or anything, but… did something happen?”

Raising his face from the crook of her neck, he met her slightly concerned stare.

“Yes, it did,” he stated in a serious manner, that made her flinch a little. “My sisters and basically everyone around me were annoyed by my incessant chatter about my girlfriend and decided to kick me out of Turkey. I’m only allowed to ever go back if I take you with me.”

“Oh!” Her green eyes rounded, and he wondered if he said anything wrong or too scary. His hands grasped at the jumper tightly to keep her steady.

“Girlfriend?” she asked tentatively.

Rubbing the back of his head with one hand, he questioned, “Too soon?”

The alluring hue of pink he adores spread over her cheeks, and she shook her head. When her eyes met his, they were sparkling with a hint of elation, and he let out a relieved sigh.

“Does that mean you missed me?” she asked softly, gazing into his eyes.

“I changed my flight…”

“You do love travelling…”

He chuckled. “I do,” he said while his thumb caressed the outer corner of her lips, tracing its outline, and lingering on the perfect shape of her cupid’s bow. Lowering his voice to a softer tone, he continued, “But, if you must know, lately I’ve been more enraptured with coming back home than going away. And you’re the reason.”

Her gaze lowered, as if she needed a moment to really take in what he was saying, then she looked back up, beaming.

“Why don’t I prepare you something to eat, while you take a shower, and you can fill me in all your adventures? I have many follow-up questions about the yacht incident.”

“That sounds wonderful!" He kissed the tip of her nose. "I have the best girlfriend in the whole world.”

“She’s simply happy to have her boyfriend back.”

“I like the sound of it.” He pulled her back into his arms and kissed her gently. “Say it again.”

“Boyfriend,” she whispered against his lips, and he smiled. “Now, go shower.”

“Just one more kiss...” he pleaded with puppy dog eyes, and she cupped his face and pulled him into a lingering kiss.

When he tried to pin her to the wall, she wiggled and escaped his hands. Her chuckles contrasted with his whinnying.

"Don't keep me waiting," she dared.

Pouting, he let her walk away.

When she looked at him over her shoulder, he winked, and she smiled and blew him a kiss.

Judging by the big smile curling her mouth, this step was much easier than he anticipated. Alas, the next chapters of their story will go as smoothly.

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

Note:

dayı - Turkish word meaning uncle.

[headoverheelsforramsey]

Hi,

Saw this and thought 💭 OH prompt (have fun, and don’t feel pressured 🥰)

The Beauty Inside

Book : Open Heart Book 1 (set somewhere in chapter 8)

Pairing : Dr. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Meera Bose)

Summary : Ethan feels bad for sharing his burden with Meera.

Category : Angst with happy ending

Warning : None

Rating : General

Word Count : 1227

Trope : And they were in the Office

A/N : Thank you to @peonierose for this beautiful prompt. I'm sorry it took me so long to get to it, I just wanted to do it justice. Hope you like it. This is also my late submission for @choicesjuly2022challenge Day 4 : Angst. Happy Reading! ❤️

Meera couldn't believe she was still standing on her two feet. A double shift as an intern had to be one of the worst nightmares. Yet she pulled her body towards the locker room with willpower she didn't even know she had and sat down dejectedly. Her legs giving up as soon as her body came in contact with the bench.

"This has to be one of the most tiring day!" she claimed kicking her shoes off and massaging her feet. 

"Bose you smell," Jackie retaliates, biting into an apple, "and you keep saying that like every other day."

"Yet she is Dr. Ramsey's favorite," Landry remarks with a snide smile.

Meera rolls her eyes, "yeah of course I stink! I was on scut today!", she said curtly ignoring Landry's comment. "And the only other patient I had was up in peds. A kid who swallowed twenty beads and I had to sift through its shit and count each of them!"

"That doesn't sound fun at all," Elijah gave her an sympathetic smile. 

"It wasn't," Meera smiled back. 

"You certainly do look the part though," Jackie taunted. 

Meera looked down at her sweaty scrubs which was now designed with blood, vomit, feces, and other various kinds of human excrement. Her hair now damp and scattered, dark circles lining her eyes. She felt disgusted by herself something she didn't even know she could feel until she picked up medicine as her career. 

"Come on now Jackie, that's not how you speak to friends," Sienna came to her rescue. 

"As if that's gonna pull her down from the DT rank list," Landry's snide comment came soon after. 

Meera had heard enough, she was about to give him a piece of her mind when a throat clearing broke the conversation. 

Ethan Ramsey had stepped into the locker room. Each and every intern dropped whatever they were doing standing up looking upto him. Meera followed suit, pushing herself to stand again. 

He looked at the sea of eager faces, but his eyes reached for the sparkling brown ones only. 

"Uhh, Dr. Bose, can I see you in my office for a moment?" 

All of the eyes darted towards her, giving her jealous, envious, curious and all kinds of looks. Meera let out a breath, suddenly very conscious of all the eyes staring at her hideous condition. 

She silently nods, eyes down to the floor. 

Ethan nods back exiting the room. 

Everyone goes back to their respective conversations but Meera could feel the energy of the room shift. 

"Told you," Landry smirked, walking away. 

"Could you lend me some deodorant?" Meera asked Jackie, but she packed her things up and walked away pretending to not hear her. 

"Here you go," Sienna handed her hers. 

"Don't worry," Elijah clapped Meera on the back, "Dr. Ramsey is extremely professional he is not going to be bothered by how you look or how you smell." 

"Let's just hope that is true," Meera smiled. 

Ethan sat in the closed off wing of the hospital. Files poured in front of him. But all he could think about was what he heard at the locker room. 

He would have interrupted, shown Olsen where his place was and rip that smirk off his face. But why? Why did he feel the sudden urge to protect Meera?

A knock interrupted his train of thoughts. 

"May I come in sir?" Meera asked. 

"Ofcourse," Ethan could see how disheveled she looked. "Dr. Bose, I was able to source these case studies from our friends at Harvard and UCLA. They might not be exact but they are pretty similar to Naveen's case. If you could join me in comparing the statistics, maybe we can develop a treatment?" 

Meera listen intently, she waited for a minute before replying,"I would love to, but if you could only give me sometime to get into something clean…" she trailed away letting her words hang. 

Ethan looked at his laptop screen with over a hundred files, he hated himself for doing this but the hope of finding a cure among them left him with no other choice. 

"I am so sorry Meera, but we have access to these files till midnight only and as you can see there is a lot to get through," he felt sick to his core. 

Meera sighed, "I understand."

She put her damp hair into a bun and pulled out the chair opposite Ethan reaching over for a file. 

They worked in silence for sometime, but Ethan felt uneasy for putting his needs over hers. 

The silence was finally broken by the beeping of his pager, "damn it, it's the DT." He put on his white coat and stethoscope, "I'll try to be back as soon as I can," he said and walked out of the room. 

Meera looked at his retreating figure and sunk deeper into her chair with a sigh. 

Ethan got occupied with the DT patient for much longer than he had expected. He checked his watch as he put his final signature on the chart. It was half an hour past midnight. He felt ashamed of himself. For leaving Meera alone to fend for herself, putting all of his burden on her. He knew he had to right his wrong. 

He walked out of the hospital and towards his favorite coffee shop down the block. When he came back he could see Meera sleeping in his makeshift office. She looked so peaceful, he thought. 

He cleared his throat, Meera opened one eye first and then straightened up at his sight. "Sorry Dr. Ramsey, I couldn't go through all of it, but I got through most of it and I have theories and I think we should administer…" 

"Breath." 

Meera visibly relaxed at Ethan's one word command. 

"It's just been a tough day," she said massaging her forehead. 

"I know, and I want you to know," Ethan stopped, not quite sure how to proceed, "I am so grateful for your help, I couldn't have done it alone."

With that he placed the coffee cup and a brown bag with blueberry muffins on the table. 

Ethan watched as Meera's expression changed from surprise to happiness to finally a smirk. 

"Wait! Is this the Ethan Ramsey being nice to me? An intern?!" 

"Savour it while it lasts rookie, it's not very common." 

Meera picked up the cup when she found the note stuck on it. She could feel heat rise to her cheek and prayed Ethan didn't notice it. 

"Was this you?" she removed the card from the cup and turned it around for him to see, "I didn't know Ethan Ramsey could draw anatomically incorrect hearts?!" 

Ethan rolled his eyes, "what can I say I am a man of many talents and also the barista was a huge help."

Meera laughed taking a sip of the coffee. Ethan found his heart slowing down, the uneasy feeling vanishing away, he believed her musical laughter could cure all the sickness in the world. 

"This was much needed, thank you Dr. Ramsey," Meera said putting the cup down. "Now how about a walk while I discuss everything I gathered from these case studies?" she paused briefly, "unless you are afraid of your reputation being tattered on being seen meddling with us peasants?" 

Ethan rolled his eyes once again, "lead the way, Dr. Bose." 

Thank you so much if you have read till here, it means the world to me. Hope to see you go on other different adventures with me, Ethan and Meera, till then sending love and hugs your way! ❤️

Taglist : @starrystarrytrouble @mm2305 @charisworld @choicesfanaf @potionsprefect @genevievemd  @shanzay44 @little-flowers-on-heaven @schnitzelbutterfingers  @coffeeheartaddict  @gryffindordaughterofathena @chemist-ana @adiehardfan-deactivated20211021 @custaroonie @ireneadlerisseggsy @takemyopenheart @natureblooms24 @mainstreetreader @lawyerlies @a-crepusculo @quixoticdreamer16 @starryeyedrookie @sincerelyscarring @thebluestonedpendant @kit-rookie-princess @wanderingamongthewildflowers @peonierose

+ @openheartfanfics @choicesficwriterscreations @choicesjuly2022challenge

Please let me know if you want to be added or removed. 💜

[theartoflovingthomashunt]

A Reminder

[All Thomas Hunt x Alex Spencer Masterlists] [Red Carpet Diaries]

Characters: Thomas Hunt x Alex Spencer Hunt(F!OC) Book: Red Carpet Diaries Word Count: ~350 Rating/Warnings: General (no warnings) Prompts: ​@choicesjuly2022challenge pink

Synopsis: Thomas finds the perfect new mug for Alex.

"I've got a surprise for you." The skin around his eyes wrinkled as the corner of his lips turned up.

"Oo, present!?" Her eyes widened. Her attention fell to the perfectly wrapped pink box with glittering gold ribbon in his hand. "What's the occasion?" She extended her arms to him, her hands grabbing out for the gift. 

"I believe the occasion will be evident once you've opened the box." His right brow arched as he tempered his growing smirk. 

"I'm going to ignore the suspicious look you've got going on and enjoy whatever my gift is!" She hopped up off the couch and snatched it from him. Hastily, she unwrapped the ribbon and opened the box. Her smile fell as her lips pressed together. Her eyes narrowed on him. She held the coffee mug out to him. "Really?"

"It seemed fitting."

"It was one time!"

"I recall twice."

"That second time wasn't my fault!" She frowned, staring down at the coffee mug that read, 'I won't stop for gas, but I will stop for Iced Coffee!' "How was I supposed to know it would take so long?"

"Darling, the little red light is there for a reason."

She folded her arms across her chest. "I know!" 

"It does have a significant purpose," Thomas teased, enjoying her attempt to feign contempt. "It is not the stop for coffee reminder light." 

"Ha ha," she mocked, rolling her eyes despite her subtle smile. "I did happen to know that."

"Perhaps this will serve as a reminder to prevent a third incident." He curled his finger beneath her chin. "Otherwise, I'll be purchasing the matching shirt and bag."

"There's a bag?" Alex perked up. 

"I should have known better." Thomas shook his head. He tipped her head, pressing a chaste kiss to her lips. "Please keep gas in your Jeep."

"I make no promises," she whispered against his lips. "You know how much I really love matching sets." Alex kept him there, pulling him in for a deeper kiss.

Thank you to those of you who still read Hunt. You are my favorite (shhh) J/K... unless... Seriously, Alex and Thomas will always have a special place in my heart so your support of them is extra special to me. Thank you! 💛

Oh, and that mug seriously exists! It wasn't until I saw it that I was like... yeah, that's Alex lol. Sees she needs gas, but stops for coffee first only to run out of gas 🤦‍♀️

[lilyoffandoms]

Blades Drabble - Tyril x Maiele & Mal x Daenarya

For day 31 (baby/pet/house-sitting | k-pop | Only One Bed) of the @choicesjuly2022challenge.

Warnings & A/N: There’s only one bed what do you think the warnings are? Kidding, kidding. This IS safe for work. It just provided me the perfect inspo for my morning warm up and an even better opportunity to have Maiele and Daenarya be their best selves.

“That damnedable landlord!” Mal spat. “Curse him to the three hells.”

“Did you not specify that there would be four of us and we would require two beds?” Tyril asked, brows pinched as he looked at the double bed. The only bed in the room.

“Of course I did,” Mal snapped. “And he charged me for two beds.”

“Why did you not insist on seeing the room before giving him the coins?”

“Because who does that? No one does that. I asked for two beds, I paid for two beds, I expected two beds.”

“And yet you got one,” Tyril stated. “Maybe you should start asking to inspect the room first.”

“Elf boy, I swear if you don’t shut up I will-“

“What?” Tyril stood taller, the frustration of the long day of travel getting to both. “What exactly will you do?” he challenged. “Get us a room with half a bed?”

Maiele and Daenarya broke into laughter interrupting the two arguing. Both men wheeling on them so that they quickly tried to stifle their laughter at the sour looks they got.

“Why don’t we go see about getting a second room or at least what we paid for?” Maiele said before either could begin bickering again. Grabbing Daenarya by the hand they made a hasty retreat.

“Don’t kill each other while we’re gone,” Daenarya called out over her shoulder as the two started laughing again.

Tyril and Mal turned to each other, arms crossed stiffly, as they scowled at the other. Neither moving and neither backing down from the staring contest.

Minutes later Maiele and Daenarya returned and silently placed some of Mal’s coin back into his hand before making their way back out of the room.

“What’s this?” Mal asked breaking eye contact first and missing Tyril’s barely visible smile of triumph.

“Your refund for the extra bed that doesn’t exist in this room,” Maiele said.

“And where are you two going?” Tyril asked.

“We got space in the common room,” Daenarya said as they both giggled.

“Are there no more rooms available?”

Maiele and Daenarya shook their heads with wide grins on their faces.

“And what about this room?” Tyril asked with growing suspicion.

“It’s yours,” Maiele grinned.

“You two need to learn to share,” Daenarya smirked as the two friends made a break for it. Their laughter and footsteps echoing down the hall.

——————————

Choices Tag: @storyofmychoices @peonierose

Tyril Tag: @voseho

[choicesfanaf]

A Cure For Homesickness

For Choices July Challenge 2022, Day 28- Recipe

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Arundhati Kulkarni)

Characters: Ethan Ramsey, Arundhati Kulkarni

Word Count: 612 words

Rating: General

Category: Fluff

Summary: Ethan makes a delicious meal for Arundhati.

A/N: Rajma Chawal is a South Asian dish which consists of a kidney bean curry, served with rice.

Tagging: @openheartfanfics, @choicesficwriterscreations, @choicesjuly2022challenge, @jamespotterthefirst, @rookiemartin

It had been a tiring day for Arundhati. She had to look after many patients and had to deal with two PITAs in the day. It was a stressful day and she wanted to do nothing but melt on the couch and relax with Ethan, watching something he liked.

Meanwhile, Ethan was busy in the kitchen, making Aru's favourite food for her. It was one of the rare times when he was home before her. Ethan wanted to take full advantage of that and do something thoughtful for her. So, he had asked for the recipe of Rajma Chawal, her favourite homemade food from her mother. He knew Aru had been feeling a little homesick and thus decided to surprise her. 

He silently hoped that his efforts wouldn't go to waste, and that Aru would like and enjoy eating it.

That's when the doorbell rang, pulling him out of his thoughts. 

When he opened the door, he saw a fatigued Arundhati looking back at him. That's when he realised how much her routine was taking a toll on her. Thus, he planned to take her on a vacation as soon as he could.

Meanwhile, Aru felt relaxed the moment she saw Ethan's frame standing in front of her. He had a magical way of making her feel better just by being near her. 

Her nostrils noticed a wonderful smell in the air the moment she entered the apartment. 

"Honey, what did you make for dinner today? It smells awesome."

"Love, you'll only find out once you get freshened up."

"E, please let me see what you have made. Then I'll happily freshen up," she said, pouting in such a way that Ethan would find it difficult to resist.

"No way, darling. I know what you are trying to do. You shall only find it out after you freshen up."

"You are no fun, Ethan! Why must you torture me so?"

"Come on, love. The longer you take, the later you will get to taste the food."

"Okay, Dr Grumpypants. I'm going."

When Aru returned, she saw that Ethan had plated the dish wonderfully and had set the table with a bouquet of sunflowers, her favourite flowers. 

"Ethan, this looks so delicious! And it smells so aromatic, yum!"

"Honey, I can see that. Your mouth is watering like crazy."

"Hey! You know how much I love food, especially homemade stuff. And that I have been craving this for ages. So don't blame me, Ramsey."

"I won't, Kulkarni. I won't. Now can we please dig in? I'm hungry, babe."

"Mmm, Ethan, this tastes just like my mom makes it. How did you do it? Did you order it from a restaurant? Or did you ask her for the recipe?"

"Yes, darling. I did. I noticed how homesick you were feeling, so I called up your mom just to have a chat and get this recipe."

"So, you sweet talked her into giving the recipe, and she obliged? Wow. She's never even told me the recipe, but now, she readily gave it to you? She definitely prefers you over me, babe."

"I guess I'm her favourite now, Aru."

"Yes, you are. Also, you are the best boyfriend in the world, darling. Seriously, thanks a lot for this. You have no idea how much I needed this."

"That's why we are going to visit your family in a month, babe. So, start packing your bags soon."

"Wait.. when did you even plan the trip?"

"Just a few minutes ago."

"And how will we get the days off?"

"Aru, you are forgetting that you are dating the chief of Edenbrook."

"You are truly the best boyfriend ever!"

[choicesjuly2023challenge]

Week 2 Masterlist

Blades of Light and Shadow Blades AU (?) Drabble | Tyril x OC (Maiele) & Mal x OC (Daenarya) | by @lilyoffandoms

Crimes of Passion How To Crush Your Enemies | Trystan Thorne x f!MC (Nora Rose) | by @inlocusmads

Desire & Decorum Personal Favorite | Part 2: Favourite Part(s) | Prince Hamid x f!MC (Daphne) & Annabelle Parsons x f!OC (Veronica) | by @lorirwritesfanfic

Hollywood U Fordbidden Romance | Thomas Hunt x f!MC (Alex Spencer) | by @theartoflovingthomashunt

Stretch Break | Thomas Hunt x f!MC (Alex Hunt) | by @theartoflovingthomashunt

Open Heart A New Day Dawns | Bryce Lahela x f!OC (Olivia Hadley) | by @storyofmychoices

Doubts | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Cassie Valentine) | by @liaromancewriter

Gamer Vivi | f!OC (Vivien Hernandez) | by @peonyblossom

Happy Birthday, Dr. Ramsey | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Cassie Valentine) | by @liaromancewriter

Just a Kiss | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Kaycee McClennan) | by @jerzwriter

New Adventures | Tobias Carrick x f!MC (Casey MacTavish) | by @jerzwriter

Right Up My Alley | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Ellie Shepherd) | by @storyofmychoices 

Risky Business... | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Kaycee McClennan) | by @jerzwriter

The Doctor's Farewell | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Jane Fletcher) | by @inlocusmads

Vivien Hernandez Edit | f!OC (Vivien Hernandez) | by @peonyblossom

Washed Up | Tobias Carrick & Bryce Lahela | by @jerzwriter

What Happened in Vegas | Chapter 2: Indecent Proposal | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Casey MacTavish) | by @jerzwriter

What Happens in Vegas | Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Cassie Valentine) | by @liaromancewriter

Wake the Dead Wound Care | Troy Hassan x f!MC (Astraea Callen) | by @storyofmychoices

[lorirwritesfanfic]

Thanks for adding my super late submission to July Challenge 😊

Personal Favourite - Part 2: Favourite Part(s)

Author’s note: Another gift for @missameliep​ because reasons (I may or may not be planning flood your notes with the OTP meme fics in the next few days. I don’t know for sure… 😅). Happy birthday, dear! This is also a late submission to @choicesjuly2022challenge​ (I hope it’s okay…)[Original characters are creations of this author. The others are owned by Pixelberry Studios]

Book: Desire & Decorum (modern day AU) Characters: MC (Daphne), F!OC (Veronica), Prince Hamid, Annabelle Parsons, Briar Daly, Edmund Marlcaster, Yusuf Konevi, Bartholomew Chambers. Pairings: Prince Hamid x MC (Daphne), Annabelle Parsons x F!OC (Veronica) Rating: T Word count: 980 Reading time: ~3min Summary: A volleyball match will bring so many emotions to the surface. Based on the prompts: Choices July Chellenge 2022 - day ten: beach / OTP ask meme #6: What is their favourite feature of their partner’s?

A salty breeze blew against Daphne’s face as she lay on an outdoor chaise, watching her friends play volleyball by the calm waters of the Aegean sea. She was well aware some of them were too competitive to handle having someone not so good at sports on their team, so why bother joining? It was so much more entertaining to watch the game anyway.

Whilst Hamid and Annabelle high-five after another successful block and point against Briar and Edmund, her childhood friend complained about sand on her eyes.

“Oh, quit whining! You barely moved! Edmund took the dive!” Annabelle shouted.

“But the sand is going straight to my eye!” Briar cried out hoping Bart and Yusuf (a.k.a the match referees) would take pity on her, but both of them simply shook their heads.

“I can see you talking, but all I hear is wah, wah, wah!“ Annabelle taunted.

Briar replied sticking her tongue out to Annabelle.

Keep reading

[jerzwriter]

New Horizons

Title:                    New Horizons   Book:                   Open Heart (Post Series) Pairing:               Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Kaycee MacClennan-Ramsey) Rating:                General Category:            Fluff   Warnings:           None Summary:           It’s Kaycee’s last day at Edenbrook. While a friend is there to support her, Ethan and Emma are there to take her home. Words:                 1273 A/N:                     I dedicate this fic to @dorisz , who made this absolutely precious edit of Ethan, Kaycee, and little Emma for me. I think she heard me squeal halfway around the globe! Dori, you are a treasure, my friend!          A/N 2: This is a HC about Kaycee's future career plans. This may be of interest to some who read the story. (Please note, I have not had a chance to update the name yet, so if you see "Casey" it's the same character.)        Participating in @choicesjuly2022challenge   Day 30 Domesticity

CHARACTERS BELONG TO PIXELBERRY STUDIOS

The sun was streaming through Kaycee's office window, the patterns of light forming on her desk so familiar they felt like a visitor from an old friend. Closing her eyes, she took a moment to bask in its warmth, relishing the comfort of the familiar while surrounded by so much change. 

A knock on the door broke her from her reverie. 

"Harper," Kaycee smiled, "come on it."

"I’m glad I caught you. This place looks so….”

“Empty,” Kaycee sighed. “It’s so hard to believe.”

“Yes. It truly is. Any second thoughts? Maybe you can stay. I do have an in with the Chief,” Harper smiled.

“Really, Chief Emery. Now, I think you know my decision is final.”

The two women laughed cordially, but a feeling of poignancy filled the air as Harper took a seat across from Kaycee for the last of their late afternoon chats in Edenbrook. 

“And, as much as I hate losing you, I couldn’t be happier that it is. Kaycee, you have created something bigger than yourself! The clinic will be a blessing for the underserved in our community. You should be extremely proud of yourself, and heaven knows we all are.”

“I know, and I am proud and so excited about the things we will be able to accomplish. It’s just,” she let out a deep sigh and swiveled in her chair. “I never realized just how much I would miss this place. In recent days, I feel like my time here has passed before my eyes, and it’s just so hard to believe. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I was practically a baby when I first walked through these doors, and now….”

Harper nodded toward a picture frame, the last unpacked item on Kaycee’s desk. “And now, you have a baby of your own.”

“Yes,” Kaycee’s face warmed with pride as she clutched the frame against her chest. “I do… but enough about Ethan.”

Harper broke into a fit of laughter as the man himself entered through the door; a sweet little cherub held his hand and wobbled in at his side.

“When I hear my name followed by Harper cackling, I know no good can be taking place.”

“Oh, it’s all good, Ethan,” Harper assured, readily ignoring him to focus on the little beauty at his side. “Hello, Emma! Come here, give your Aunt Harper a hug.”

“Da-ta-da-ah-da-ta-dah!” Emma sang as she waddled into Harper's waiting arms.

“How does she get more beautiful every time I see her?”

Ethan shot an adoring gaze at his wife, “You’ll have to ask her, Mom. Clearly, it’s her genes and not mine.”

“Of course! No one suggested otherwise, Ethan,” Harper grinned.

“Wow! Suddenly I’m not so sad about Kaycee leaving. At least I’ll just have one of you ribbing me now!”

“Oh, don’t worry!” Harper assured, “Tobias will be more than happy to pick up any slack left behind. Don’t you agree, Kaycee?”

But when Harper swung around, she found her friend and colleague clutching a tissue and peering out the window on the verge of tears. Ethan nodded after he and Harper exchanged a knowing look.

“You know, if it’s OK with the two of you, I’m going to show this little angel off to the nurses. They always love seeing her! Would that be all right?”

“Oh,” Kaycee startled, “yes, of course. Just let me give Emma a little kiss first.”

Kaycee leaned over her desk, and Emma’s chubby little hands tangled in her Mommy’s hair as she lavished her with kisses. 

“OK, little miss, let’s go show you off! We’ll be back very soon, Mommy!”

Ethan was already standing behind his wife, his arms lovingly encircling her waist, when Harper closed the door. Kaycee took a deep breath as she leaned back into his embrace, cherishing the reassuring kisses he placed on the top of her head. 

“How are you doing, dear,” he whispered.

“It’s really my last day here,” she cried. “I’m leaving.”

“Yes, you are. To do amazing things!”

“I know,” she turned around into his arms to face him, mindlessly toying with his lapel as memories flooded her thoughts. “It’s just, this has been my home.”

“And it always will be. But you’ve done all you can here. The youngest person to ever become a fellow and then a member of the diagnostic team. Creating a specialty diagnostic unit for women and children. Implementing vast improvements to our community clinic until you realized you could do better striking out with that on your own.”

Kaycee smiled when she felt her husband's chest rise, his eyes aglow with utter pride.

“I always knew you were something special, Rookie, but look at you now. It is such an honor to be your husband.”

“Hmm,” Kaycee grinned. “I bet that’s one thing you didn’t expect me to accomplish when we met in that lobby all those years ago.”

“No,” he chuckled, “I most certainly didn’t. But having you as my wife and that beautiful little girl as our daughter, they’re my greatest accomplishments, bar none.”

“I bet you say that to all the girls,” Kaycee teased.

“Yes,” he guffawed. “I tell all my wives and mothers of my children the same thing.”

Ethan sat on the desk and held Kaycee close, sharing one last lingering embrace that neither wished to break.

“Come on,” he finally spoke, “we should go. Have you packed everything?”

“Yes,” she replied. “Everything but that.”

A warm smile spread on Ethan’s face as he lifted the frame from her desk, lovingly staring at the image of their little family. Wrapping it carefully in packing paper, he placed it on top of the small cardboard box on her desk.

“That will always be one of my favorite pictures,” he stated.

“Mine too, and I already have a place set for it in my new office.”

“I knew you would. Think of it, I’ll be staring at my copy, and you’ll be staring at the same picture across town.”

“And Emma has the same picture in her cubby at daycare,” Kaycee reminded him.

“That’s right, just one more thing that unites us until we’re all back home where we belong.”

Kaycee exhaled a cleansing breath. Change was frightening, but she was confident, there was nothing they couldn’t accomplish as long as they had each other. The silence was broken by the soft mewls coming through the door.

“Emma!” Kaycee consoled as her arms reached for her little girl. “What’s wrong, baby?”

“She’s had enough of this place,” Harper insisted. “She’s ready to go see her Mommy’s new office.”

“Is that what it is,” Kaycee smiled. Emma’s tears stopped flowing the moment she was back in her mother’s arms. 

“Of course,” Ethan beamed, “That’s where she’s going to spend time, watching her mother accomplish the most incredible things.”

“He’s not wrong,” Harper agreed. “Now, I know you two, and you’ll drag this out needlessly. I’m still your boss for another twenty minutes, so I’m exercising my authority and ordering you out! Ethan – pick up that box and take your family home.”

Harper clutched Kaycee’s arm with a broad smile.

“Your work here is done. You did good! I’ll give you three a few moments alone.”

Bouncing Emma on her hip, Kaycee slowly turned around, taking in her office one last time.

“Well, I guess that’s it. Ready to go home, Ethan?”

Ethan lifted the box and met his wife by the door, placing a soft kiss on her lips, then another on Emma’s forehead.   

“I’m ready to leave,” he smiled tenderly, “But I’m already home, Kaycee. I’m with the two of you.”

Permatags: @a-crepusculo @animesuck3r @annoyingmillenialnewbie @bex-la-get @binny1985 @bluebelle08 @bluerosesbloom @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @danijimenezv @differenttyphoonwerewolff @dorisz @genevievemd @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kingliam2019 @lady-calypso @liaromancewriter @lucy-268 @mainstreetreader @parisa-kh @peonierose @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @rosebuddee @schnitzelbutterfingers @secretaryunpaid @sillydg @spookycolorpeanut @socalwriterbee @thegreentwin @trappedinfanfiction @writer-ish @youlookappropriate @zahrachoices @kachrisberry @fayeswiftie @choiceskatie @ofmischiefandmedicine @tessa-liam

OH Tags: @aishwarya26 @onikaloverr @peonyblossom @toadfrog26 @jerzwriter2

[liaromancewriter]

Enchanted

Premise: Cassie and Ethan have very different ideas on how to talk to their unborn children.

Book: Open Heart (post series) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Trope: Pregnancy Words: 1,100

A/N: Request by @potionsprefect, prompt #8 (talking to the baby through the belly and telling them how excited they already are) from this list. Submission for @choicesjuly2022challenge Day 27 Pregnancy Fic. 

Her back was killing her. Of all the indignities that went with pregnancy, that was the one Cassie Valentine was fixated on today. Carrying a baby inside your body wasn’t for wimps. And carrying two at the same time? Well, they should give out medals for that.

Cassie eased on to the couch set against one wall of the Diagnostic Team’s office and sank into the soft cushions with a sigh of relief. She was only halfway through her shift and wasn’t sure how she’d get through the rest feeling the way she did.

Tired. Bloated. And just about as uncomfortable as it was possible to be. She wondered, not for the first time, why anyone would willingly do this more than once. 

“You could ease up on your rookie mom, you know,” she looked down at the large bump protruding from the middle of her body. “You’ve had your fun. Why not just take a nap?”

She placed both hands on either side of her belly, cradling it, and waited for the somersaults to end. Clearly her children had inherited their stubbornness when instead of slowing down their movements increased in frequency.

“Very funny,” she grumbled. “I should have known Ramsey and Valentine genes would be a handful even in the womb. Just know, I am keeping score and will hold this over you for as long as possible.”

The babies were like ‘whatever’ executing two swift kicks in succession.

“Fine, fine, I’m sorry,” she said quickly, drumming her fingers on the arm of the couch as her eyes scanned the empty office.

The team didn’t have a patient today and she had decided to use the downtime to catch up on paperwork. But she had trouble concentrating due to the sheer monotony of it. What she wanted was to dive into a meaty case, something challenging that would get the juices flowing again.

Unfortunately, she was almost thirty weeks along with a predisposition to pre-eclampsia and Ethan had laid down the law about her working with patients. She could consult with the team but not directly manage treatments.

“And that’s another thing,” she complained, talking directly to her belly. “Your dad is not playing fair by benching his star player. I’m pregnant, and you two aren’t making it easy, but my brain is as sharp as ever. Who made him boss of everything?”

“I believe that was Naveen with a lot of prodding from you,” boomed an amused masculine voice behind her. “Are you complaining about me to our children again, Rookie?”

Cassie looked over her shoulder at Ethan standing inside the doorway. She’d been so engrossed in her one-sided conversation that she hadn’t heard the glass doors slide open.

“Hey, babe,” she smiled, holding out one hand for him as he walked over. “Just telling it like it is. You don’t want me to lie, do you?”

He shook his head in exasperation and sat down next to her, automatically splaying his hand atop her belly. “Did you tell them how obstinate Valentines are? Because if not I will be setting them straight on that matter.”

“Ramseys aren’t exactly flexible,” she muttered. “At least not one particular Ramsey.”

And then she started laughing at how ridiculous the conversation was. Ethan must have thought so too because he chuckled, teeth flashing white against his dark beard. She leaned in, resting her head on his shoulder, and he draped his arm around her, holding her close.

“Is everything okay?” he asked after a few minutes of silence.

She sighed deeply. “My back hurts, my feet are swollen, the kiddos are using my body as a monkey gym, and I hate paperwork.”

“Other than that,” he teased making her laugh. “You know babies respond better to honey than vinegar, right?”

“Then they should mind their manners,” she scoffed. “Ow! There they go again.”

“Let me try,” he proposed, bowing his head to speak to their babies through her belly. “Okay, girls, this is Doct…err, your father. How are you?”

When Cassie snorted, he threw her an annoyed look and quirked one eyebrow; she rolled her eyes and looked away.

“Anyway, as I was saying before I was rudely interrupted, your mom and I know you’re excited about this brand, new world you find yourself in. But we’re even more excited to meet you. You still need to spend more time in there, get bigger and stronger, but go easy on your poor mom. She’s trying very hard and could use your help.”

Cassie watched in wonder as Ethan continued to croon sweet words to their unborn children. He told them they were loved and wanted, and that nothing would ever change that even all the kicking. But he sure would appreciate it if they could ease up for now. Please, and thank you.

This version of Ethan was so different from the austere man she remembered from intern year; the one who’d said children weren’t in cards for him because he couldn’t be there for them the way they needed him to be. This was the Ethan Ramsey only she was allowed to see.

Here he was, talking to them as if they could understand every word he was saying, his voice soft and gentle. The babies must have liked it because she could feel the tightness in her belly easing as did the flips that had caused her so much discomfort earlier.

She felt tears prick the corner of her eyes as love for him and their growing family filled her heart until she could feel it fluttering. Or maybe it was heartburn. Either way, she mentally captured the memory of this moment to hold on to forever.

“What?” he demanded, eyes narrowing at the look in her eyes.

“You amaze and enchant me every day, Dr. Ramsey,” she said, closing the distance to brush her lips across his. “That’s what.”

A pink blush pricked at his cheeks, and he glanced away. “Just applying my diagnostic skills to the situation. We both know the way to deal with difficult patients is with quiet reason.”

“Sure,” she said with obvious skepticism. “Let’s go with that.”

He narrowed his eyes but didn’t rise to her jibe. Keeping his arm around her, he toed off his shoes and put his feet up next to hers on the coffee table. She nestled deeper into his embrace, closed her eyes, and savored the peace.

Ethan Ramsey was a good man, thought Cassie, and would make an even better father. That wasn’t wishful thinking. It was fact. She would bet her diagnostic skills on it.

All Fics & Edits: @trappedinfanfiction​ @bex-la-get @mysticalgalaxysstuff @genevievemd @choicesaddict5 @jerzwriter @rookiemartin @schnitzelbutterfingers @vi-writes-stuff @coffeeheartaddict2 @quixoticdreamer16 @dorisz @zahrachoices @lucy-268 @a-crepusculo @jamespotterthefirst @ofmischiefandmedicine @headoverheelsforramsey @takemyopenheart @gryffindordaughterofathena @queencarb @crazy-loca-blog @natureblooms24

Ethan & Cassie only: @custaroonie @lady-calypso

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics 

[storyofmychoices]

"I love your hugs"

[Mal Volari x Daenarya Masterlist] [Mal's Orphanage]

Pairings: Mal Volari x Daenarya (F!OC) Other Characters: Lydo (M!OC, child) ; Rayden (M!OC, child) Book: Blades of Light and Shadow (future) Word Count: <800 Rating: General Prompt: @choicesficwriterscreations "I love your hugs" ; @choicesjuly2022challenge: Hurt/Comfort

Setting: This takes place at Mal's orphanage. He and Daenarya have just adopted Lydo and Rayden.

Synopsis: Mal and the boys are out playing in the yard when Rayden gets hurt.

The high-pitched sound of his soft cry pulled her attention. Daenarya quickly ran outside to the backyard where the children were playing. 

She rushed toward them, finding Lydo knelt on the ground beside his brother. "What happened?" 

"We were playing a game, and Rayden ran after the ball and tripped," Mal explained, brushing back the boy's dark, shaggy hair.

"I'm sorry, Miss Daenarya. I didn't mean to throw the ball so far." Lydo held his head down, his body trembling.

"Oh, Lydo," she tucked her finger under his chin, lifting his face. His eyes filled with unshed tears. She continued, "No one blames you. Accidents happen."

Mal playfully nudged the crying boy. "Rayden's going to be okay. You're a tough kid, right? A few scratches won't stop you."

The young boy nodded, trying to put on a brave face. Tears covered his reddened cheeks, dripping down on his tunic.

Daeanrya's eyes narrowed at Mal as a scowl grew on her face. She wrapped her arms snuggly around Rayden, holding him against her chest. "I've got you. We'll get your scrapes all cleaned up and put some healing salve on them. How does that sound?" 

He sniffled, nodding against her shoulder. He snaked his arms around her neck. "Okay." 

The older boy stared at his brother. His lip quivered as worry still filled his face.

"Lydo, why don't you and Mal go get Beary," Daenarya suggested. She shifted Rayden a little. "Don't you think Beary would help?" 

He nodded, not letting go of her. 

"I can do that!" Lydo answered with relief, bounding back toward the house to get the bear. 

Her fingers tenderly stroked through the young boy's hair as his sobs quieted. "Let me take a look at where it hurts." 

He shook his head and held her tighter. "I think it's better."

"Yeah?" She smiled, kissing his forehead as she wiped his tears that continued to fall. "Well, let me just check." She attempted to shift him to get a better look, but his grasp on her didn't loosen. "You don't have to be brave with me. It's okay to cry and to be hurt. Everyone gets hurt and upset, even me... even Mal."

"Really?" His big, tear-filled eyes met her gaze. 

"Of course." She tickled him softly, trying to get a smile. "I could tell you many stories about Mal getting hurt on our adventures... and sometimes in the kitchen when he thinks it's funny to play with knives instead of using them." 

Rayden smiled at her words. 

"It's okay to admit it hurts."

He nodded thoughtfully, considering her words.

"Do you think I could take a look?" 

"Here—" Lydo interrupted, slipping Beary the bear between his brother and Daenarya. 

"That was fast!" Her gaze shifted to Mal, who rushed out after the boy. 

"We ran the whole way—" Mal huffed, leaning forward on his knees, panting. "—up the stairs. Twice."

"We forgot his little pack." Lydo gestured proudly to the bear's tiny leather satchel that Mal had made for Rayden so Beary could be an adventurer and collect treasures, too. 

"That was very thoughtful of you," Daenarya smiled at Lydo before turning her attention to Mal with a growing smirk. "Looks like someone's out of adventuring shape!"

Rayden giggled softly. "Too many sweets and grape juice with Kitty."

"What???" Daenarya pretended to be shocked. 

"That was supposed to be our little secret!" Mal grumbled as Rayden laughed a little more, the pain in his eyes easing. 

"What will I do with you boys?" She gave them all a suspicious look before shifting her attention back to Rayden. "I guess I'll start with you! Let's see those cuts."

"Not yet!" He nestled further into her.

"You know I'm going to have to look."

"I know. Just another minute." 

"Yeah? What's gonna change in a minute?"

"Nothin'. It's just—I love your hugs, Mama."

Tears pooled in her eyes at his last word. Her reply caught in her throat. She held him tighter, kissing the crown of his head repeatedly. "Oh, my sweet boy, how I love your hugs, too. Thanks for letting me be your Mama."

A grin of pride widened on the Rogue's face as he watched Daenarya with the youngest of their recently adopted sons. He slung his arm around Lydo's shoulder, pulling the older boy into him. 

"What's that for?" Lydo squirmed under his grasp, trying to act tough.

Mal's knuckles rubbed in his hair as he hugged his eldest son. "Just because."

Lydo leaned into his adopted father's embrace as he glanced once more to his brother happily in Daenarya's arms. He smiled softly, knowing he and his brother were safe and loved; and now, they always would be.

A/N: Thank you so much for reading. I hope you enjoyed it. I do adore this little family and I hope you do as well.

Please forgive any mistakes or typos. I didn't have a chance to edit but I wanted to post it anyway.

Tags in a reblog

[moodmusicmonday]

Who's in the mood for singing at the top of your lungs? How about dancing like no one is watching? This playlist has BOTH!

As always, THANK YOU to everyone who participated this week! Make sure you bookmark these upcoming fics and/or request a tag! You don't want to miss these amazing stories! Remember to support each other!

ALSO... Are you a writer/creator, and you're having the worst block ever? Or maybe you are craving a new kind of challenge... but you just don't know where to find one? Listen: you HAVE GOT to check out our friends over at @choicesjuly2022challenge. PROMPTS GALORE! Seriously, there are 3 prompts each and everyday for the month of July! Check out the rules, and then try it out! (At least check out Day 22 ... "Song Fic" 😉).

See y'all next week!

~🎵~

@ao719

“Drowning” - Jonah Kagen; Best Kept Secrets, Chapter 3: I’m Sinking In The Waves (TRR; Liam x f!OC)

@queenrileyrose

“Gives You Hell” - The All-American Rejects; Irreplaceable, One-Shot: Gives You Hell [TRR/RoE; Leo x Riley; Liam x Drake; Leo x Katie (former)]

@penoierose

-Pink Champagne, edit [OPH; Bryce Lahela x f!OC (Luna Auclair)]

“Pink Champagne” - Carrie Underwood

“Poor Everybody Else” - Carrie Underwood

“Kiss My” - Anne-Marie (ft. Little Mix)

“Got Your Number” - Serena Ryder

-Cake by the Ocean, fic [OPH; Bryce Lahela x f!OC (Luna Auclair)]

“Complete Mess” - 5 Seconds of Summer

“Surfin’ USA” - The Beach Boys

“Love is Around Us” - Animal Island

@socalwriterbee

“Malibu” - Miley Cyrus; Better in Time, new series [TNA AU; m!Sam Dalton x MC (Marie Castro); m!OC (Wyatt Kent) x MC (Marie Castro)] 

~🎵~

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