#edenbrook hospital

[intrusive-thot]

I'm readig Open Heart for the first time (v late, i know) and now im hooked on it im on book 2 and WHAT DID THIS TRAVIS GUY JUST DO TO ALL OF US?????? WE'RE INNOCENT BYSTANDERS??????? THE SECUrity GUARD TOO I LOVE HIM AND THAT LITERALLY HAPPENED AND RTHAN'S STANDING THERE LIME 🧍‍♀️🧍‍♂️🧍🕴️🐥👏 LIKE MAN HELP US ANYWAYS I ACTUALLY STRESSING OUT

[jerzwriter]

Welcome Brooke Vivian Carrick!

In my headcanon for Tobias & Casey, little Brooke joins the family on August 30, 2025. But I'm delivering this incredible artwork to you one year earlier! This lovely commission is from none other than the incomparable @/artbyainna on Instagram. I've run out of amazing things to say about her, but she never, ever disappoints.

I had hoped to write more about Brooke's birth story—and maybe one day I will—but I really wanted to share this before the end of August. Some HCs about Casey's pregnancy and Brooke's birth can be found below. Maybe I'll write a little more about them one day. I sure do love this little family!

You can find some stories about this time in Round Two and more about Tobas x Casey on Tobias x Casey's Masterlist.

Caption Pietro (the cat): To me, he's saying "Not impressed!" 😂

Pregnancy/Birth Headcanons:

As with her first pregnancy with Sammy, poor Casey was pretty much nauseous for the first three months. That was even more challenging with a toddler underfoot. Fortunately, Tobias was always quick to tell her to rest, and grandmas Vivian and Rose were all too happy to step in when needed.

The minute morning sickness ends - Casey is famished and has tons of cravings. Tobias was better prepared for that this time. This time around, she wanted Greek salads and French fries most of all. See a little Insta edit about that below.

Tobias made it clear he wanted a big family; Casey made it clear she was the one who had the babies, and he agreed; it was her call. They never said definitively that this was their last, but they both believed it was. They really took time to cherish every moment of this special time.

Casey and Tobias were happy to see her sex drive was insane during this pregnancy, their friends asked how they noticed a difference? lol

Tobias arranged a 'babymoon' vacation when Casey was seven months pregnant. He wanted to go to one of their favorite islands in the Pacific, but he wasn't keen on Casey traveling so far from home while pregnant. He also wasn't about to take her to any states that could jeopardize her life if she were to have complications, so that limited his choices. They ended up at a luxury hotel in Cape May, New Jersey. He got a suite on a separate floor for Vivian and Rose, too. This way they got some relaxation and they could all spend time with Sammy - but Mom & Dad got plenty of alone time, too.

Once again, Tobias insisted they were having a daughter, so he never even looked at boy's names. Girl's names were also a challenge; neither could come up with anything they loved. Finally, his Aunt Cher suggested Eden or Brooke for Edenbrook. They loved the idea and decided to wait until the baby was born to see if she looked more like an Eden or a Brooke. Obviously, Brooke won! She was given Tobias's mother's name, Vivian, as a middle name.

For most of Casey's pregnancy, Sammy was unimpressed about the idea of a new baby, but toward the end, she decided it would be fun. So she was eager to meet her little sister, and when they brought Brooke home, Sammy really thought it was a present just for her.

Pietro, their cat, was obsessed with her baby bump throughout her pregnancy but had no interest in Brooke once she was born. Casey and Tobias joked it was an odd way to learn their cat was a Republican.

Like her sister, Brooke was anxious to enter the world and came a little earlier than expected. Her due date of September 20th became a birthdate of August 30th. Casey was in labor for 5 1/2 hours, but there were complications, and it was decided it would be best to have a C-section. Tobias was at her side through it all (and she was telling him to get a vasectomy most of that time....)

They were overjoyed when little Brooke was safely delivered, and they spent the next few days in the hospital suite marveling over her and trying to wrap their heads around the fact that they now had two little girls. Tobias was outnumbered, and he loved it.

Here's a little edit about Casey's cravings - well, at least the food cravings - this pregnancy lol

[liaromancewriter]

Favorite Ex

Premise: Ethan runs into an old flame, and it brings some much-needed closure for both of them.

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Angst. Words: 1,570

A/N: Submission for @choicesmonthlychallengenov2024 prompt day 26: "regret" and @choicesprompts Angstgiving prompt "what could have been"

Ethan Ramsey needed a drink.

The annual National Medical Symposium in Miami, with its focus on cutting-edge medical advancements, had been interesting enough. Still, the obsequious flattery that went hand in hand with his increasingly rare visits to medical conferences got on his nerves. He couldn’t care less about what others wanted from him, but after all these years, he knew how to play the game.

Naveen would joke that with age, he’d gained maturity and wisdom. His wife would just snort and proceed to tease him about getting soft until he took her to bed just to prove her wrong.

She pushed him out of his comfort zone. And for her, he was willing to embrace the unknown.

A few years ago, he hadn’t been so… flexible. He reflected absently, walking into the busy hotel bar and scanning the room for an empty seat.

Or as willing to admit that he needed someone to come home to. Someone who understood him and filled the empty holes in his heart. He couldn’t deny it anymore, not even to himself.

Seeing a patron settle his tab and leave, he rushed to grab the padded bar stool. His shoulders dropped at the thought of sipping smooth whiskey while decompressing by exchanging sexy texts with his wife.

Should’ve insisted she accompany me, Ethan thought wearily, raking one hand through his hair.

He placed his phone on the bar, smiling as he often did at the sight of their wedding picture on the screen. He traced one finger down her laughing face, the photo a reminder of the moment she'd insisted he smile—really smile—for once.

He wondered when he’d become such a sap. Maybe she was right, and he was getting soft in his forties.

“What’ll be, sir?” The bartender asked hurriedly.

“Whiskey, neat.”

Ethan froze at the familiar voice behind him. He hadn’t heard it in years, but he’d know it in a dark room with his eyes closed.

Surprise had him swiveling on the stool to face her. Sparkling green eyes met shocked blue ones.

The years fell away as if no time had passed since that fateful night at Donahue’s when she’d correctly guessed his drink order on her first day as an intern at Boston’s Edenbrook Hospital.

“And don’t be stingy,” Dr. Cassie Valentine said, a smile tugging at her lips. “Judging by the look of him, it’s been a three-finger kind of day.”

“Hello, Dr. Ramsey.”

Ethan opened his mouth to speak, but the words caught in his throat, refusing to come. He inclined his head in greeting instead, a poor acknowledgment of the woman who’d been the first to breach through his walls.

The one who’d made him break all his rules and not give a damn about the consequences.

His mind flooded with memories. The quiet intimacy of watching the snow fall outside as they cuddled after making love. The warmth of holding hands on their way to Derry’s for coffee and a stolen moment of peace. The thrill of sneaking glances across the diagnostic team’s office despite their resolve to keep things strictly professional at work.

If it hadn’t been for his temporary but all-consuming love affair with Cassie, would he have even given Joanna a chance?

Ethan hoped the answer was yes. He loved his wife, and it would be an incredible disservice to what they meant to each other for him to believe otherwise.

“Still a man of few words, I see,” Cassie teased as she slid into the empty seat beside him, resting her chin lightly on her hand.

“You know me well,” he said gruffly, swallowing the lump that had lodged in his throat.

“I thought I did,” Cassie cooly inclined her head, but the laughter in her eyes betrayed her. “I still can’t believe you’re here. Remember when we attended this conference when I was an intern?” She giggled. “You hated every minute of it and weren’t exactly shy about saying so.”

Ethan hunched his shoulders. “I wasn’t that bad.”

He had a very different memory of that time. It had nothing to do with the symposium and everything to do with a moonlit balcony and his morals drowning in the heady scent of her perfume.

She rolled her eyes. “Yes, you were!”

The bartender returned with his drink, setting the lone glass in front of Ethan. The man looked questioningly at Cassie, but she shook her head.

“Not in the mood?” Ethan asked as he lifted his glass.

“Can’t,” she said, placing one hand on her belly.

Ethan stilled, a mix of complicated emotions he didn’t dare examine too closely surging through him.

Whenever he thought of Cassie, which wasn’t as often now as it had been in those early years, he still saw the resident who worked side by side with him during the day and slept in his bed at night.

The one he’d fallen in love with but could never confess the words to because there was a timer on their relationship. When her residency ended, she’d move on, ready to conquer the medical world with her amazing diagnostics instincts. And he’d be left behind. Again.

So, he’d held back and let the words fade into the ether.

It had been for the best, Ethan reasoned. Her eventual departure hadn’t lessened the hurt, but it had been cleaner.

He hadn’t been looking for love again, but one day, he bumped into a red-haired chef at the farmer’s market, and his life tilted on its axis. Literally, in this case, since he found himself falling to the ground and grabbing her on his way down.

So, he burned his dreams of what couldn’t be and allowed himself to believe in a new and permanent love.

In the last few years, he’d heard of Cassie’s accomplishments; her groundbreaking research, the accolades that followed. The diagnostic medical community was small, after all. He’d felt pride at seeing her star rise, convincing himself that was all it was. Just pride. Nothing more.

Until now.

“Congratulations,” he said softly, the word heavier than it should have been.

He forced a smile, willing himself to ignore the ache that stirred, a reminder of what could never be. He had made peace with it. Or so he thought. Yet here she was, and peace felt like a lie.

“Thanks,” Cassie said with a wistful smile. “I’m still in my first trimester, so we’re keeping it on the DL.”

She tilted her head, her gaze dropping briefly to the wedding ring on his left hand. “You’re married?”

“Yes. Two years next month.”

A silence fell between them—heavy, unfamiliar, and uncomfortably awkward. The rowdy laughter of a group of physicians erupted nearby, breaking through the tension like an unwelcome intrusion.

Cassie glanced toward the noise, her lips twitching into a faint, distracted smile before her gaze returned to him.

Ethan fought to keep his gaze steady, trying and failing to ignore the curve of her lips or the way her stylish blonde hair framed her timeless features. He remembered its softness against his skin as she nestled against him before drifting off to sleep, their hands still touching when they woke the next morning.

Joanna wasn’t into cuddling. She was often too tired after a long night at the restaurant and preferred sleeping on her side, her back to him.

Until this moment, Ethan had forgotten he enjoyed the intimacy of a lover wrapped around him. Cassie had once called him a world-class snuggler, and he’d cherished the title as if he’d won a Nobel Prize.

They had been happy. So, why couldn’t they make it work?

“Are you happy?” she asked eerily, picking up on his ambivalence.

He wanted to say yes. He was happy. Hadn’t he been reflecting on just how much a mere ten minutes ago? So, why was he hesitating?

Shame spiraled through him. He adored Joanna, and he loved their life together.

And yet, a part of him still wondered about the road not taken. Maybe it was time he stopped.

He drew in a long breath. “What happened to us?”

Cassie slid him a guarded look. Her fingers curled and uncurled in her lap.

Ethan didn’t think she’d respond and opened his mouth to take the words back.

“You never asked me to stay.”

He sat back, poleaxed.

“We went from gold rush to cold touch,” Cassie said, sadness clouding her features. “As my residency was ending, I could feel you slowly pulling away from me. And still, I waited for any word from you, something to give me hope that we had a future together.”

Ethan could hardly move, let alone speak at the confession.

“You were my best nights and my worst. I cried myself for weeks after, and then I let us go.”

Cassie slid off the stool and smoothed down her dress. “I’m glad I ran into you. I’ve wanted to say these words to you for the longest time but never had the courage.”

Her eyes softened as she took a step back. “You will always be my favorite ex. Goodbye, Ethan.”

And then she was gone, her scent lingering until that, too, was an ephemeral memory.

“And you will always be mine,” he uttered silently, reaching for the phone and the one he had chosen to be his forevermore.

He and Cassie were finally where they belonged. In the past.

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

All Fics & Edits: @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @jerzwriter @justyourusualash

@lady-calypso @kyra75 @mainstreetreader @peonierose @potionsprefect

@queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @snoopdogcone @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

@thosehallowedhalls

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @youlookappropriate

[potionsprefect]

Everything Has Changed

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Victoria Clarke

Word Count: 802

Summary: After the Senator attack, life at Edenbrook Hospital will never be the same

Rating: Teen

Category: Angst

The hospital was bustling like it always did but at this current moment in time, it was in the media spotlight. After the terrible events of the last 24 hours, Edenbrook was adjusting to a new normal.

Sienna Trinh looked out of the window of the hospital. Everything carried on as normal outside, no one seemed to be aware of the horrors that had occurred inside just hours before. Why did it have to be Edenbrook to suffer?

No one’s lives would ever be the same again, they would forever be haunted by the events of the last day. The last day they never wanted to experience.

Sienna walked to her best friend Victoria’s room where she was sleeping. She looked so peaceful. It was hard to imagine the ordeal she had been through, how she had been so close to death. Sienna couldn’t imagine losing her.

“It’s hard to imagine isn’t it.” A voice said. Sienna turned to see Ethan walking up the corridor.

“I was so sure we were going to lose both her and Rafael. I’m glad we didn’t.” Sienna sighed.

“Me too. How are you holding up? After everything that happened with Danny?” Ethan asked.

Sienna closed her eyes for a second, thinking over the answer in her head. “I don’t really know how to feel. I’m so relieved Victoria and Rafael are ok. But Danny… he’s gone.”

“I know. And it won’t be easy. We’ve all felt a sense of loss. But I think Danny would want us to remember we did a good thing. And I think we should remember that going forward.” Ethan smiled as he looked at Victoria.

“Well there’s no time like the present. Go in there and be with her.” Sienna smiled.

Ethan chuckled before opening the door. He went and sat by Victoria’s bed, grasping her hand as she continued to sleep.

“I’m so glad you’re still here.” Ethan said as he pressed a gentle kiss to Victoria’s hand.

As if she heard him, Victoria opened her eyes. “Me too.” She said.

“Did I wake you?”

“No I was just resting my eyes. How is Raf?”

“He’s doing well. There’s still a long way to go but he’s going in the right direction.”

“That’s good. Although I don’t think life for either of us will be the same again. My lungs are scarred I’ve been told.” Victoria said.

“That’s no surprise. None of us really know the after effects. It looks like you both might be useful for science in the future.”

“Hopefully not for a few years. How is everyone coping?”

Ethan sighed. “They’re not really if I’m honest. Life for all of us is going to be different.”

“Do you think people will expect us to say something? It’s on the news.” Victoria said.

“Not right now. And even if you did, there’s no way you will be saying something without the approval of HR.” Ethan replied.

“You don’t like HR. I’d love to see you interacting with them.” Victoria laughed.

“Never in a million years.” Ethan said. He noticed a box by Victoria’s bed. “What’s that?”

Victoria looked over at what he was pointing at. “Oh it’s my inhaler. I’ll need to use it if I ever get short of breath. I guess that’s the new normal for me now.” Victoria sighed.

“There was always a chance of some effects. But you’ll learn to live with it. It’s better that than the alternative.”

“I suppose. How are you after everything? I haven’t really asked.”

Ethan sighed. “Lots of things. I’m relieved you’re alive along with Rafael but sad that Danny died, angry that the Senator escaped.”

“I know. Me too. I have a lot of unanswered questions. But right now, all I need is you by my side to help me recover.”

“Well that is a guarantee. I need to update Naveen on what’s happened. I’ll be back later.” Ethan stood up and pressed a kiss to Victoria’s forehead before leaving the room.

Whilst Ethan was telling the truth, he made a detour. He headed towards the men’s bathroom. He rested his hands on the sink, head bowed and he could feel himself shaking. Without thinking about it, he broke down, tears streaming down his face and his cries leaving his body one by one. He had been holding it in for so long, he wanted to be strong for Victoria. But now he was letting it out, finally allowing all his emotions to be spilled out.

Ethan washed his face and wiped his eyes before he headed to see Naveen, each step feeling much heavier than the last.

He knew life would never be the same, but for now, he had to be strong. For himself, for the hospital.

For Victoria. And she mattered more than anyone.

Oops I wrote angst lol

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[ilikemenbutonlyethanramsey]

(Open heart on fire re-write, the one where MC is not MIA.)

Ethan Ramsey strode through the corridors of Edenbrook, his steps brisk and purposeful. It had been just over a year since he’d taken the position of Chief, and while the job was certainly not without its challenges—paperwork, meetings, administrative headaches—there was a quiet satisfaction in it.

The kind of satisfaction that he would never openly admit, of course. After all, this was Ethan Ramsey; complaining was second nature. He had a knack for finding the flaws, the inefficiencies, and the countless ways things could be better. Yet, amidst the grumbling, there was a thrill to the position—a sense of ownership and control over the medicine he had devoted his life to.

But it wasn’t just the job that gave him that feeling. There was something, or rather someone, who had made this past year feel different. His gaze drifted to the diagnostic wing as he walked, a faint, almost imperceptible smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. The thing he adored most about his role wasn’t found in policy changes or budget meetings; it was the fact that Elle worked just a few corridors away. Their paths crossed often—sometimes by coincidence, sometimes not. The days were busier, more unpredictable now, but he loved the way his heart skipped whenever he saw her coming down the hallway or caught a glimpse of her in the midst of a case. It was like they were connected by an invisible thread, always pulling them back to each other, no matter how chaotic the hospital became. Even now, as he walked the familiar halls, he felt the pull, an unspoken anticipation humming beneath his cool exterior.

As he rounded a corner, he could see Harper talking animatedly to a group of interns near the elevators, her sharp eyes catching his the second he approached. A brief nod was exchanged between them—a silent acknowledgment that he was, indeed, doing what he did best—keeping things running smoothly, but also always keeping an eye out for her. Because as much as he was Chief, Ethan Ramsey was also still very much a doctor. And part of being a doctor meant knowing where his most important people were. Especially when one of them was Elle.

Although, that morning, Ethan had woken up to find Elle still in bed, her face flushed and her voice thick with congestion. She’d caught a nasty cold, the kind that left her sniffling and coughing weakly under a pile of blankets. It was clear she wasn’t in any shape to make it to work, but she had insisted he go in anyway. She’d given him that familiar, stubborn look, the one that said she wasn’t to be argued with, even though she was barely able to sit up without a bout of coughing. “You’re Chief now, Ethan,” she’d said, her voice hoarse yet determined. “You have to be there. No arguments.” He’d lingered by her side, reluctant to leave her alone while she was sick, but eventually, after a lot of gentle persuasion on her part, he’d relented. It was typical Elle, putting him and the hospital before herself, and he couldn’t help but admire her even as he worried. So, with a soft kiss to her forehead and a promise to check in between cases, he had pulled on his lab coat and headed out the door, her insistence echoing in his mind as he left.

Ethan pulled out his phone, standing just outside the Diagnostics Team’s workspace. With a quick swipe, he opened a new message to Elle, his fingers moving swiftly across the screen:

How are you feeling? Did you get any rest? I’ll be home as soon as I can. Let me know if you need anything.

He hit send, his mind half-focused on Elle as he slid his phone back into his coat pocket. Without thinking, he turned the corner—and immediately collided with Harper Emery, nearly sending her files spilling to the floor.

“Ethan!” Harper exclaimed, catching herself and laughing a bit. “You’ve really got to watch where you’re going. Distracted, huh? You look like a lost puppy.”

Ethan took a step back, his expression neutral as he steadied her by the elbow. “Sorry, Harper,” he said, his voice a bit clipped. “Just trying to check in on Elle.”

Harper raised an eyebrow, her expression softening. “She’s off today, isn’t she? Is she alright?”

Ethan sighed, a subtle frustration seeping into his posture as he rubbed the bridge of his nose. “Yeah, she’s got some kind of cold,” he said, his voice a mix of concern and exhaustion. “Elle insisted I come in, said it’s nothing serious. But you know how she is—stubborn as hell.”

Harper nodded knowingly. “She never does things halfway, does she?”

“No, she doesn’t,” Ethan admitted, a hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “She’d drag herself in if I let her. But I told her to stay home and rest.” He dropped his hand from his face, looking directly at Harper. “It’s just… hard not to worry.”

“Well,” Harper said, her tone shifting to something lighter, “if she’s as tough as you say, she’ll be back before you know it. In the meantime, we need you here, Chief. Diagnostics could use your brain today.”

Ethan’s eyes narrowed slightly, the familiar walls of the hospital settling him back into his role. “Flattery won’t get you anywhere, Harper,” he replied dryly, though there was a glimmer of humor in his eyes.

Before Harper could respond, a deafening explosion rocked the building, rattling the windows and sending a powerful shockwave through the hospital. The ceiling above them cracked, releasing a shower of dust and debris as an ear-splitting roar filled the air. Alarms blared instantly, drowning out any coherent sounds, and the floor seemed to tremble beneath their feet.

In an instinctive, protective motion, Ethan threw his arm around Harper’s shoulders, yanking her down and shielding her with his body as chunks of the ceiling gave way, slamming onto the floor with a thunderous crash just inches from where they stood. Plaster and metal rained down around them, filling the air with a choking cloud of dust. The acrid smell of smoke hit his nostrils almost immediately, thick and suffocating, forcing him to breathe shallowly.

Ethan’s heart pounded in his chest, the adrenaline searing through his veins, and he turned quickly, scanning the hall for any signs of immediate danger. “Harper!” he barked, his voice rough with urgency as he pulled her to her feet. “Are you hurt?”

She shook her head, eyes wide, her face pale with shock. “No, I’m okay,” she managed to say, but the words were barely audible over the cacophony of alarms.

Through the settling dust, Ethan could see the panic starting to unfold. Staff and patients alike were scrambling, shouts and cries blending into a chaotic symphony of fear. He had no time to think, only to act. “We need to move!” he said, gripping Harper’s arm tighter, guiding her through the rubble-strewn corridor.

They stumbled forward, dodging debris as they fought their way down the smoke-filled hallway. The lights flickered ominously, casting eerie shadows across the chaos that had suddenly enveloped Edenbrook. With every step, the situation seemed to grow more dire—plumes of smoke curling up from the fissures in the walls, the distant sound of shattering glass echoing like a warning.

Ethan’s mind raced, his instincts overriding any sense of personal safety. He knew the protocols, knew what he had to do, but as the floor buckled beneath his feet, he couldn’t help but think of Elle—sick and vulnerable, alone in their apartment while the world seemed to be falling apart around him.

“Stay low!” he shouted to Harper as they pressed on, his gaze shifting towards the exit signs glowing dimly through the haze. His only goal now was to get to the source of the chaos and make sure they could stabilize whatever the hell had just happened before it got any worse.

Ethan’s mind flashed back to the mandatory fire training they’d all gone through—the RACE protocol drilled into them year after year: Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Extinguish. It was all muscle memory now, taking over as his logical mind raced to keep up with the chaos. As Harper sprinted towards the closest fire exit, he felt the weight of his responsibility settle firmly on his shoulders. He had to take charge.

“Nurse!” he called out to a nearby staff member, urgency sharpening his voice. “Clear the hallways and get anyone in immediate danger to a safe place!”

He moved further down the smoke-filled corridor, his steps quick and purposeful, scanning for any sign of immediate danger. As he rounded a corner, he nearly collided with Jackie and Bryce, both of them looking wide-eyed but focused amid the chaos.

“Dr. Varma,” he said, locking eyes with Jackie, his voice calm despite the adrenaline pumping through his veins. “Assess how many patients need assistance with transport. We have to prioritize them.”

Jackie gave a sharp nod, determination replacing the fear on her face.

“On it, Dr. Ramsey,” she replied, turning swiftly to begin her task. She disappeared into the smoke, her footsteps already fading.

Ethan pivoted to face Bryce. “Lahela,” he said, his voice low and controlled. “Inspect all windows and doors. Keep them shut. We can’t risk feeding the fire with any oxygen from outside.”

Bryce didn’t hesitate, giving a quick salute before sprinting towards the nearest corridor, shutting doors as he went.

Jackie’s voice cut through the confusion, her tone edged with worry as she looked back at Ethan. “Do we have any idea what that explosion was?”

Ethan’s jaw tightened, his fists clenching at his sides as he tried to maintain control over his rising anger. “Could be oxygen tanks,” he said, his eyes flickering over the debris scattered around them. “We won’t know for sure until the fire department gets here,” he added, a hard edge to his voice. He couldn’t hide his frustration, a mix of worry and impatience boiling just beneath the surface. “If they ever get here.”

The uncertainty gnawed at him. As much as he trusted his instincts and the training he’d been through countless times, it was impossible to predict what kind of situation they were dealing with until the experts arrived. For now, all he could do was make sure his team was in control and keep everyone safe.

Ethan shook off the lingering irritation that gnawed at him. This wasn’t the time to lose focus. “Get back to your tasks, and make sure the doors are closed behind you!” he barked at Jackie and Bryce, watching as they moved swiftly back into action.

He circled back to the atrium, eyes scanning the chaotic scene. Nurses were guiding patients to the exits, some wheeling stretchers, others ushering those who could walk on their own. It was a practiced chaos, the kind Ethan thrived in. He quickly assigned more staff to ensure each patient was accounted for and directed towards safety.

Suddenly, a frantic voice rose above the cacophony. Ethan turned sharply, spotting a teenage girl who looked overwhelmed, her eyes wide with terror. “Someone, please help! My brother—I can’t find him!” she cried, her hands shaking.

Ethan was at her side in an instant, placing a steadying hand on her shoulder. “Hey, it’s going to be okay,” he said, his voice calm and reassuring despite the chaos swirling around them. “Take a deep breath. When was the last time you saw him?”

“Alicia!” A voice called out from behind, cutting off the girl’s frantic reply. Ethan’s gaze whipped around, and he spotted a firefighter emerging through the thick smoke. In his arms, he carried a young boy, coughing and dazed but seemingly unharmed.

Relief washed over the girl—Alicia—as she rushed to her brother’s side. The firefighter, with his perfectly styled brunette hair and a jawline that looked chiseled out of marble, barely had a smudge of ash on him. Ethan’s gratitude mingled with a flash of annoyance, the man looking more like a plastic firefighter Ken doll than someone who had just dragged a child out of a burning building.

Ethan watched as the firefighter handed his helmet to the boy, a wide grin spreading across Cody’s face. “Cody! Thank god you’re okay!” Alicia sobbed, pulling her brother into a tight embrace.

Phoenix, the firefighter who’d carried Cody out, crouched down to ruffle the kid’s hair. “He’s gonna be just fine, don’t worry,” he said warmly. “Cody, why don’t you tell your sister how brave you were?”

Cody beamed, standing a little taller. “Firefighter Phoenix says maybe one day, I can join the squad!” he announced proudly.

With a hearty chuckle, Phoenix placed his oversized helmet on the boy’s head, tilting it until it sat just right. “Looks good to me. What do you think?” he asked, winking at Alicia.

Ethan, arms folded, let out a soft scoff under his breath. Figures the flame jockey would be a softie, he thought. Clearing his throat, he forced himself to be professional. “You did a good thing there,” he acknowledged, nodding to Phoenix. “The poor kid was out of her mind before you got here.”

Phoenix’s warm expression cooled instantly as he turned to Ethan, his eyes narrowing. “Let me guess, you’re the stooge in charge here,” he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

Ethan felt his jaw tighten. “I am… Dr. Ethan Ramsey, Chief of Medicine,” he replied, barely containing the irritation that flared within him. “And you are…?”

“Shea Phoenix,” the firefighter shot back, “Battalion Chief, Engine 57. I need you to get your people on top of evacuation.”

Ethan’s frown deepened, his voice firm. “We are on top of evacuation, Phoenix. There isn’t a smoke alarm going off because a tray of cookies burnt.” He glared at the firefighter, who seemed unfazed. “Hospitals have protocols that best serve our patients—protocols which you should be familiar with—”

Phoenix waved him off, turning away mid-sentence. “Amelia!” he barked over his shoulder. “Make sure the flames are contained at the point of origin.”

Ignoring the frustration boiling in his chest, Ethan forced himself to focus. Phoenix’s arrogance was infuriating, but there were bigger priorities. Phoenix turned back to him, his face all business. “Ramsey, I need to secure electrical power,” he said, voice clipped. “Where’s a map of your systems?”

Ethan paused, caught off guard. “I—I’ll get it,” he said, suppressing a flash of annoyance.

“I also need to know where your generator room is, which areas are supported by emergency power?” Phoenix pressed, his expression unyielding. “Stat.”

Ethan drew in a slow, calming breath, reigning in his temper. “I’m happy to help,” he said through clenched teeth, his thoughts boiling. Help get your pompous ass out of my hair, that is. He handed over the information Phoenix needed, then quickly resumed organizing the evacuation, determined not to let the firefighter’s attitude get in the way of his focus.

After what felt like an eternity, the evacuation was complete. Patients and staff gathered outside the hospital, huddled in groups as the fire department worked to ensure the building’s safety. Ethan stood apart from the others, arms crossed as he watched Phoenix confer with his team, the smoke clearing in the morning light.

Phoenix walked over, standing shoulder to shoulder with Ethan. For a long moment, they said nothing, just staring at the charred windows and smoke-stained walls of Edenbrook. Finally, Ethan broke the silence with a heavy sigh. “I appreciate your help,” he said, his tone measured, “despite the fact that it is literally your job.”

Phoenix raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips.

“But,” Ethan continued, his voice softening, “everyone is safe thanks to you. I owe you one.”

For a second, the fire chief looked surprised. Then, he nodded, the smirk fading to something more genuine. “Just doing what I’m trained to do, Doc,” he said. “But you and your team kept it together. We were a damn good team today.”

Ethan gave a reluctant nod, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at his lips. It wasn’t often he met someone as stubborn and relentless as himself. “Just don’t expect me to say that twice,” he muttered.

Ethan stepped back inside Edenbrook, his sharp gaze sweeping over the first floor. There was some smoke damage—blackened patches here and there on the walls and ceilings—but nothing catastrophic. The firefighters had done an impressive job containing the flames to the second floor. For the first time since the chaos began, he allowed himself to exhale, relief mingling with grudging admiration. Guess the flame jockeys are good for something, he thought.

He felt the unmistakable presence of Phoenix behind him, the firefighter’s broad shadow stretching across the floor. “You look like you’re choking on praise there, Doc,” Phoenix said, a teasing edge in his voice. “It won’t kill you to admit I know what I’m doing.”

Ethan smirked, glancing over his shoulder. “You’re right,” he said, his voice dry, “but it might take a year off my life.”

Phoenix laughed, the sound echoing in the hallway, carrying a hint of camaraderie beneath the banter. “Nothing’s gonna topple that ego of yours, is it, Doc?” he challenged, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

Ethan let out a weary sigh, crossing his arms. “You can’t talk,” he shot back. “Yours is as big as mine.”

Phoenix’s grin widened, and for a second, the tension between them eased, the lingering scent of smoke and the distant crackle of radios fading into the background. “Touché,” Phoenix conceded, nodding in acknowledgment. “But let’s just agree it’s our egos that got the job done today.”

“Maybe,” Ethan allowed, his eyes flicking to the scorched stairs leading to the second floor. “Or maybe it’s because, for once, we didn’t get in each other’s way.”

Phoenix chuckled, clapping Ethan on the shoulder with a heavy, calloused hand. “I’ll take that as the closest thing to a compliment I’m gonna get.”

Ethan shook his head, a reluctant smile pulling at his lips. “Don’t push it, Phoenix,” he warned, but there was no heat behind his words. They stood there a moment longer, two men who’d just gone toe-to-toe with disaster, silently acknowledging the uneasy respect that had begun to take root between them.

The entire afternoon had been a blur, a nonstop whirlwind of assessing, stabilizing, and coordinating the aftermath of the explosion. The doctors and firefighters worked together with the kind of synchronicity that only comes from experience, their movements efficient and precise. As the last of the smoke finally dissipated, the sun had long dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, amber glow over the hospital grounds. Ethan glanced at the clock, the exhaustion of the day pressing down on his shoulders. Edenbrook and Engine 57 had made a pretty damn good team, he had to admit.

Standing near the paperwork, Ethan read through the reports one last time. “Not one single casualty. I’m impressed,” he murmured to no one in particular.

Phoenix, who had been standing nearby, looked over his shoulder at the paper and grinned. “Careful, Ramsey. That almost sounded like a compliment.”

Ethan smirked, shaking his head. “My mistake,” he replied dryly, “it wasn’t meant to be.”

Phoenix chuckled quietly, but his expression softened as he grew more serious. “Well, I don’t know about you, but after today, I’m in desperate need of a drink. You and your team should join us.”

Ethan paused for a moment, the thought of some well-deserved R&R tempting him more than he’d care to admit. After the madness of the day, it wasn’t a bad idea. “I think we’ve earned a Scotch at Donahue’s,” he said with a grin.

“Excellent choice.”

Donahue’s was one of those old-school bars that seemed to capture the essence of a long, hard day’s work. The dim lights cast a golden glow over the aged wooden tables and the mismatched bar stools. The air was thick with chatter, laughter, and the sound of glasses clinking together as the crew from Edenbrook and Engine 57 relived the chaos they’d just survived. The bar smelled faintly of whiskey and wood polish, and the music in the background was a steady hum of classic rock—nothing too loud, just enough to settle into a rhythm as people relaxed.

Ethan and Phoenix found their way to the bar, where Reggie, the bartender, greeted them with a smile that said he’d seen his fair share of trouble over the years.

Ethan leaned against the counter. “Whiskey, did you say?” he asked, his tone more curious than anything.

Phoenix nodded, tapping the bar with his fingers. “Neat.”

Ethan turned to Reggie, ordering their drinks. “A Scotch and a whiskey, please.”

Reggie nodded and made his way down the bar to prepare the drinks. As he returned, Ethan lifted his glass towards Phoenix. “Here’s to being chief,” Ethan said, his voice carrying a tone of both respect and humor. “It’s a tough job…”

Phoenix smirked, clinking his glass against Ethan’s with a quiet clink. “But someone’s gotta do it.”

Ethan chuckled, shaking his head. “Took the words right out of my mouth. Kind of annoying how you keep doing that.”

Phoenix’s eyes swept around the room, scanning the familiar faces and the cozy atmosphere of the bar. “It’s no O’Malley’s,” he remarked, “but it’s pretty nice here.”

Ethan smirked back, the warmth of the Scotch easing some of the tension in his shoulders. “Well, one perk is that it’s usually not filled with firefighters.”

Phoenix shook his head, grinning. “Ha-ha. How do you command such a solid team when you’re such a pain in the ass?”

Ethan took another sip of his drink, considering Phoenix’s question with a thoughtful expression. “Healthy combination of fear and the promise of occasional after-work drinks.”

As the two men exchanged a look of amusement, Ethan’s phone rang, cutting through the banter. He glanced at the screen, his expression changing as he saw the name—Elle. Along with the call, a flood of missed messages popped up, all from her.

“Hold on a sec,” Ethan said, holding up a hand to Phoenix as he stepped away from the bar, his tone more serious. “I’ll be right back.”

Ethan answered the phone, his voice warm and familiar. “Hi gorgeous, you okay?”

On the other end, Elle sounded much better than she had earlier that morning. Her voice was soft, relaxed, and it made Ethan’s heart skip just a little. “Yup, I just wanted to see what you wanted to order for dinner? Have you eaten yet?”

Ethan tried to hide the smile that tugged at his lips as he glanced at Phoenix, who was eyeing him with curiosity. “Don’t worry about me tonight, you order what you like. Put it on my card, okay?”

Elle’s laugh filtered through the phone, and Ethan couldn’t help but feel a little lighter. “Okaay? Why are you being so sweet?”

He grinned to himself, a playful glint in his eyes. “Am I not always sweet?”

“I’d rather not answer that,” Elle teased, a faint smile audible in her tone. “When will you be home?”

Ethan glanced at the clock. 21:04. His thoughts immediately turned to Elle, and the thought of heading home after the chaos of the day felt like a welcome reprieve. “Give me half an hour, I’ll be there.”

“Okay. I love you. See you soon.”

Ethan’s heart warmed at her words, and he allowed himself to indulge in the sentiment for just a moment before responding. “I love you, see you soon.”

As he hung up, he turned to Phoenix, who had a knowing look on his face. Ethan quickly turned away, trying to brush it off, but the slight flush in his cheeks betrayed him. “What?” he muttered, keeping his tone casual as he picked up his drink.

Phoenix says nothing, only smiling for a moment before speaking

“You seem like a lucky man.”

Ethan paused for a moment, his fingers tightening around his glass as he glanced up at Phoenix. The comment, though lighthearted, hit a little closer to home than he expected. He took a slow sip of his drink, trying to keep his expression neutral.

“Maybe,” Ethan replied, his voice a little softer than usual. “But luck doesn’t always have much to do with it.”

Phoenix raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Oh?”

Ethan shrugged, setting his glass down. “No, it’s more about timing… and not taking things for granted.” He glanced back at his phone, checking the time again, the weight of the day starting to pull at him. “And knowing what you have when you have it.”

Phoenix studied him for a moment, nodding slowly as if understanding something unspoken. “I guess that makes sense. You seem like a guy who knows what he’s doing.”

Ethan smiled faintly, his thoughts drifting back to Elle. “Sometimes it feels like the hardest part is just holding on to what you’ve got.”

Phoenix gave a half laugh, clearly impressed. “I like your style, Ramsey.”

Ethan gave a quick nod, finishing his drink before standing. “Thanks, Shea. But, duty calls.” He gave the firefighter a nod of acknowledgment, slipping his phone back into his pocket.

“Well, go get your lady, Doc,” Phoenix said with a grin. “She sounds like a keeper.”

Ethan’s eyes softened. “She is,” he said quietly, before turning to leave the bar and head home.

[coffeeheartaddict2]

Two to Tango

Book: Open Heart (post series)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Casey Ramsey

Word count: 1099

Category: Smut

Rating: 18+ Mature content

Warnings: sexual content, language.

Summary: It is the Edenbrook Christmas party and a dance leads to some shenanigans.

Disclaimer: Characters belong to Pixelberry.

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It was December in Boston. The Christmas lights set an atmosphere that was magical. Even Ethan Ramsey found joy in the season.

The annual Edenbrook Christmas party was fast approaching. It was to be held at Edenbrook. The atrium always looked magical and the excitement was palpable. Being a work event, fraternizing was discouraged, however given the number of on-call rooms and offices, there were certainly places where such dark deeds could be performed. Ethan was very determined to lead by example but his wife Casey had other plans.

She had ordered a dark green dress, high slit, showing every curve, she knew it would drive her husband wild. It had been an up and down year and she wanted to end the year feeling sexy and desired. Ethan had not seen the dress and she was going to meet him at the hospital. She knew it would test his self control no end and to be honest she was hoping he would give in.

She arrived with Sienna, who wore a red dress for the occasion. They were greeted by Tobias who hugged them both. When Tobias saw Casey he knew that Ethan was a goner. Casey mingled with her friends. Ethan finally arrived, dressed in his trusty Tuxedo. He looked around at the room and he was happy to see such a jovial atmosphere then he spotted Casey. His breath was taken away by how attractive she was. Thoughts of what he knew they would be doing later when they arrived home ran through his head. He made his way down to where she was. He put his arms around her and kissed the side of her head and whispered how attractive she looked. She smiled an enticing smile and thanked him. After doing the rounds of the party together a sensual song, conducive to a Tango started to play. Ethan asked Casey to dance to which she agreed. They danced a tango, a rather sensual version that caught the attention of much of the crowd. Ethan and Casey however did not notice as they were caught up in the moment and the thoughts of what they wanted to do to each other in private. The dance came to an end and everyone cheered. They bowed and moved to the edges of the dance floor.

Ethan grabbed two drinks.

“That was a very bold dance Chief Ramsey” demurred Casey.

“What can I say, the song and that dress called for it.”

Casey blushed. “My , Chief Ramsey, I thought you were wanting to lead by example?”

He walks her to a lift and presses the button to the admin floor. When the door shuts he kisses her hard. He then grabs her hand and places it at his rock hard cock.

“I went hard as soon as I saw you, sweetheart. After that dance, there is no way I am waiting until we are home.” Before kissing her again. Casey was already somewhat aroused after that dance but she knew she was certain drenched now.

The lift was mercifully quick and did not stop. The doors opened and they made their way to Ethan’s office. He opened the door and shut it and moved Casey up against it. He kissed her, more gently this time before marvelling at her dress. He traced his hand along her collar bone, down the valley of her breasts. He slid his hand to her left breast and squeezed. Casey let out a slight moan. Casey then kissed Ethan and whispered in his ear.

“Why don’t you fuck me on that fancy new desk of yours?”

Ethan walked her over to the desk and carefully unzipped her dress. He ripped her underwear off and sat her on the desk. He got her to lay back and he got down on his knees and kissed up the inside of her thighs. He teased the nub with his thumb before circling his tongue and then he entered her. “Fuck” Casey moaned. He ate her out, holding her on the precipice until he let her fall, screaming his name. He then got up. Casey undid the buttons on his shirt and undid his trousers and then removed his boxers. She marveled at his throbbing cock. He asked Casey to stand up and she spun her around and leaned her over the desk.

“If I am going to fuck you on my desk we are doing to properly.”

He entered her with a hard thrust.

“Fuck Casey, you are so tight” he muttered. He set an arduous pace from the get go, massaging her breasts as he pounded into her. He felt the familiar sensations and he moved his hand to her centre, circling her nub.

“So close” Casey mutters. Ethan keeps going, even harder until they climax together. He kisses her and he sits back on his chair. Casey takes a minute and then straddles him.

“Round two” she whispers, as she slides her way down his still hardened cock.

She rocks her hips, enjoying her husband fully sheathed inside her. Ethan then thrusts up and starts to kiss her nipples: she moans from the get go and rides him faster. She is still on a high from the previous two orgasms and she knows she won’t last long but she needed this on a primal level. Ethan sensing this, started to play with her over sensitive clit. Casey stopped him and replaced his hand with hers, allowing him to hold onto her when she climaxed. He continued to suck at her nipples, biting lightly. Casey then succumbs, once again screaming his name, he helps her ride it out and succumbs to his own release.

“I love you Casey” he whispers to Casey, who has now collapsed on top of him.”

“I love you too” she whispers quietly. Ethan carries her to the couch where she lays down resting her head on his lap.

“I needed tonight.”

“I know sweetheart, it has been a mixed year.”

“After the miscarriage, I was all over the place and I know we have been intimate since…”

“You also wanted to feel wanted, I understand fully.”

“We should get back shouldn’t we?” Asked Casey.

“Enough to say that we were at the party. I want to ruin that dress.”

“Thirty more minutes at the party then we leave then.”

“A good idea.”

They get dressed, Casey brushes her hair, thankful that she has left a hairbrush in one of Ethan’s desk drawers. They enjoy the party and make their way home to enjoy the rest of the night in private.

——-

Authors note: thanks for the prompt @jerzwriter . I have been in a bit of writers block and also time squeeze so this prompt was perfect. This is set in Christmas of 2023. This year Casey is at the end of her first trimester and still enduring random bouts of morning sickness, it is only slight but she is certainly not feeling up to much. Picture of the dress is below and for those who want to know, the dress did not survive when they got back home.

Tagging: @jerzwriter @cariantha @jamespotterthefirst @genevievemd @youlookappropriate @liaromancewriter @potionsprefect @alj4890 @tessa-liam @crazy-loca-blog @bex-la-get @a-crepusculo @zealouscanonindeer @snoopdogcone @schnitzelbutterfingers @binny1985 @lucy-268 @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

[cariantha]

A Chance Encounter (2/3)

Book: Open Heart (Pre-Series) Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Sawyer Brooks) Rating: Teen Warning: Implied sexual activity Category: Fluff Word count: 3.3K Series Summary: Ten years before meeting at Edenbrook, Ethan and Sawyer have a chance encounter during spring break.

A/N: Artwork by the incredible @/artbyainna on Instagram.

Chapter Summary: Knowing the odds of ever seeing each other again, Ethan and Sawyer throw caution to the wind and spend a magical night together.

Part One

Part Two: The Hook-Up

January 2023 - Miami, Florida

“And I’m beginning to realize…” Ethan paused, reaching for Sawyer’s wine glass and placing it along with his own on the patio table behind him, “There are some things that are worth any risk.” 

Though it was winter, the cooler Miami temperature was as comfortable as a summer night in Boston. But Ethan wasn’t thinking about home. With the moonlit backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, a scene from his past began to play out before him. 

When he turned back to Sawyer, he met her hopeful eyes. Reflecting the bright, silver moonlight, they looked just like sea glass.

It had been six months since the mystery woman he met a decade ago in East Hampton, New York found her way back into his life. If Sawyer had any memory of those days at the beach, she had kept it tucked away. When her shaky hand cupped his dark stubbled cheek, Ethan was suddenly desperate to remind her. “Sawyer, I…” 

“I know,” she said softly, never breaking their intense gaze. 

Immense relief coursed through him as he closed his eyes and leaned into her caressing touch. With that long-awaited admission, Ethan’s remaining reservations were drowned out by overwhelming lust for the woman he had dreamt of for years. When his eyes opened again, the dam built of steadfast resolve finally broke.

In an instant, she was finally - after all this time - back in his arms. His mouth covered hers in an intense kiss. He held his lips to hers for many heartbeats, needing to make up for lost time. 

“Dr. Ramsey, you’re–”

“Ethan,” he insisted. There was no need for formality anymore. They no longer had to pretend they were only ever co-workers. Their pact of anonymity became null and void the day Sawyer walked through the doors of Edenbrook Hospital.

Time was a blur as a frenzy of hands and mouths allowed their bodies to become reacquainted. After a clumsy, lip-locked dance across the balcony, Ethan fell back into a cushioned patio chair. Sawyer lowered herself onto his lap and began slowly rocking her hips against his, matching the lapping rhythm of the shore. 

“Sawyer, I’ve never done anything like this. Ever. This is—” He needed her to know he would never take advantage of his position of authority. He would never take advantage of her in any capacity. Hell, it’s why he had kept this memory to himself to begin with. But he could no longer deny their history. Their attraction. Their connection. 

Sawyer stopped him mid-sentence, placing her hand over his pounding heart. She then took his hand and held it between the valley of her breasts, and he completely forgot what he was going to say. Instead, he sighed contentedly. “You… feel amazing.” 

His blonde temptation smiled coyly. “Wait ‘til you feel the rest of me.”

Her confusing words and a perfectly timed chilly gust of ocean breeze released him from her spell. What does she mean by that? Ethan quickly replayed the last few minutes, realizing he may have made an erroneous assumption. When Sawyer said “I know” was she referring to their past or acknowledging their current and undeniable attraction to one another? The jolting thought made him face the harsh realities of their situation yet again. She was an intern. He was her boss. This can’t happen no matter their history.

March 2012 - East Hampton, New York

The day after her best friend's accident, Christian headed into the big city with her employer on official nanny duty. Having stayed behind, Sawyer took the opportunity to walk to town and explore the local shops and eateries. She enjoyed window shopping at high-end stores catering to wealthy vacationers and locals. But wearing cut-off jean shorts, a tank top, and flip-flop sandals, she didn’t dare go inside fearing a “Pretty Woman” scene the moment a salesperson sized her up. 

Deciding it was time for a morning pick-me-up, Sawyer made her way to the crowded Starbucks on the corner. She was about to follow a couple of hoity-toity customers inside when a row of quaint boutiques across the street caught her eye, a little coffee shop nestled between them. She looked both ways before dashing across the bustling thoroughfare, eager to try something different.

The bell on the door rang as she opened it, drawing the attention of several patrons. As Sawyer surveyed the charming and seemingly popular cafe, her face lit up when she saw Ethan at the back of the order line. 

Also excited by the surprise meeting, Ethan let the older woman behind him go first so he could stand next to Sawyer in line.

“I didn't take you for a coffee guy," she greeted.

"I'm a med student, remember? We only function on coffee or energy drinks. I prefer coffee."

“And why this place over that one?” she wondered, tilting her head toward the large bay window. The siren in the middle of the familiar green logo smiled back at them.

“In my experience, local coffee shops have better quality coffee. And they tend to be much quieter. There’s a lesser-known place close to campus where I like to go to study. The owner is from Hawaii and occasionally serves an amazing Kona.”

“In other words, you’re a coffee snob,” she poked fun.

Ethan shrugged unoffended.

The barista took their orders when they reached the counter. “Are these together?”  

“Yes,” they both answered at the same time. 

“Let me,” Sawyer turned to Ethan. “I owe you one for your help yesterday.” 

But Ethan wouldn’t have it. “It’s on me,” he overruled, handing his debit card to the barista.  

Moving out of the way for the next customer, Sawyer thanked him for the coffee. “That was sweet. But I still owe you. I might just have to give you one of those private surf lessons for free," she smiled coyly.

Clearing his throat, "Speaking of… how's the leg?" 

"It's bruised and tender,” she shifted her body to show him. “I found some of that same ointment at the house and rebandaged the big cut this morning."

Ethan nodded satisfied.

Sipping from their to-go cups, they stepped out of the small eatery together. Hoping to extend their time together with a walk home, Ethan asked which direction she was headed. 

Looking down the street, she answered, “I was going to take this way around. I wanted to check out a few more of the sights.”

“Care for some company?” Ethan asked hopefully.

Sawyer couldn’t help the smile that spread across her face when she turned her head to respond. “I’d love some.”

Strolling through the village-like setting, they chatted about all sorts of things, especially medical school. With a big decision to make soon, Sawyer wanted to know more about the application process, Ethan’s favorite classes, and his plans after graduation.

“Wait, seriously? I’ve heard of Dr. Banerji! I recently read one of his case studies for my Viruses and Application for Biological Systems class. Wow, I hope things work out and you get the chance to work with him,” Sawyer commented with sincerity.

Spotting a gift shop with tacky tchotchkes and souvenirs, she tugged on his arm to follow her inside. They browsed the displays, making a game of who could find the most ridiculous item. Ethan was determined to outdo himself every time simply to hear her lovely, melodic laughter. He found her minutes later flipping through a rack of novelty t-shirts. Ethan mindlessly flicked through shirts on the opposite side. He found it endearing how she giggled at the silly ones, and more than once their eyes met over the clothing rack, eliciting shy smiles.

When they exited the store, Sawyer handed him a bag. “Here.”

“What’s this?” he furrowed his brow in question.

“Open it,” she instructed.

Ethan pulled a white t-shirt from the bag. The red print said “LIFEGUARD,” and below the cross symbol it said “The Hamptons.” 

“I know it’s cheesy, but I owe you a new shirt and you did come to my rescue,” she explained. 

With a nod of appreciation, “Thanks. You didn’t need to do this,” he said, tucking the shirt back into the bag. 

As they trekked through the neighborhood, their conversation continued to flow effortlessly, like they could share anything and everything without hesitation. Sawyer made him smile often with her carefree playfulness and gentle teasing. Not an easy feat if you ask those who knew him well. Likewise, Ethan made her laugh, even snort a few times, with his dry humor and quick wit. They walked just inches apart, their hands brushing together so many times it no longer felt accidental. 

It felt like they had been walking and talking for hours, but it all came to an end too soon when they reached his driveway.

“Thanks for the coffee and company.” She looked nervously at her feet before continuing, “It sucks that you’re leaving tomorrow. Maybe we can–”

"Hey! Is that you, Gidge?” Tobias interrupted as he came outside to unload party supplies from his Jeep. “I see you've met Moondoggie here.”

"What the hell are you talking about, Carrick?" Ethan glared at him. 

"It's from an old movie," Sawyer helped to explain.

"Gigde, we're throwing a beach bash later tonight–”

“We are?” Ethan interrupted with a vexed look on his face. 

“You and your friend should come," Tobias continued, ignoring his roommate.

"We'd love to come to your orgy… I mean luau, Kahuna," she played along. 

Ethan just looked between the two of them, the movie references completely lost on him. 

Tobias elbowed him playfully, "I like this one, man.”

Rolling her eyes, Sawyer turned back to Ethan, “Later then?"

Ethan nodded and put his hand up to say goodbye as she continued down the road.

The back of the Jeep was stockpiled with several cases of beer and brown paper bags with various assortments of liquor bottles. “Jesus Christ. How many people did you invite over?” Ethan groaned.

Shrugging, Tobias responded, “Who was counting?” 

Ethan jumped when he felt fingers slide into his back pocket. “What the fuck are you doing?” he asked, swatting his annoying friend's hand away. 

Tobias patted Ethan’s ass where he deposited a strip of square foil-wrapped packets. “Just making sure you’re prepared for later.” 

🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊

Christian had to put the kids to sleep before going off the clock for the night. By the time Sawyer and her best friend finally made their way next door, the party was in full swing.

As the ladies made their way to the kitchen for drinks, Sawyer’s eyes swept each room they passed, hoping to spot a familiar face. Every room was crowded with college-age partiers, most of whom looked like snobby rich kids. Guys wearing polo shirts and plaid shorts, and who sported expensive watches, mingled with women wearing tight, short dresses, with blown-out hair and manicured nails. Sawyer wasn’t sure if they’d been invited to a spring break party or a country club clambake.

“Gidge! You made it,” Tobias greeted, throwing an arm around her shoulder as he squeezed in between the two friends. 

“Kahuna,” she acknowledged. 

“Let me introduce my boys, Stinky and Lover Boy,” he joked, nodding to his pals. “Moondoggie, who you’ve met, is around here somewhere. Probably sulking in a corner.”

“Annnd, I have no idea what you guys are talking about,” Sawyer’s friend laughed, “but, I’m Christian.”

Tobias looked her up and down, then said with a smirk, “Challenge accepted, angel. We’ll make a sinner of you before the night is over.”  

A while later, Ethan came out of hiding and weaved his way through the party. He scanned the many faces gathered in nearly every room on the first floor of the mansion, searching for a pair of brilliant green eyes. But as luck would have it, they kept barely missing each other. No sooner had he left the room than she entered. After a couple of passes, Ethan grabbed a beer from the kitchen, and with a disappointed sigh, he made his way outside. 

Sawyer stayed by her friend's side for a while until Tobias wrapped his arm around Christian's shoulders and led her away for a dance. With a beer of her own, Sawyer ventured outside to get some fresh air. On the far end of the deck was a spiral staircase that led to a second-story balcony. Hoping to at least enjoy the view of the moonlit ocean while she worked through her own disappointment, she coiled up the stairs. When she reached the top step, she saw Ethan leaning on the railing, looking sullen and staring out to the water.

"Oh! Hey,” she tried to contain her sudden excitement, “Sorry. I didn't realize anyone was up here."

"Hi," his voice sounded glad to see her.

"Mind if I join you?"

Ethan shook his head.

"Not much of a party guy, huh?" Sawyer asked, joining him at the railing. 

"It's not really my scene."

“Oh? And what kind of scene do you prefer?”

Ethan slightly shifted his body toward her. “Coffee and conversation. A stroll through the neighborhood. Beers on the porch,” he answered, clinking the neck of his bottle against hers.

With knowing smiles, they each took a swig of beer, then fell back into the same comfortable conversation as earlier in the day. There was an undeniable connection between them and, as if they both came to that same realization, a timid silence settled between them. 

This was the moment, the one where someone made a move or made an excuse to head back downstairs. Ethan pushed off the railing and stood up straight, setting his beer bottle on the railing. Sawyer followed his lead, doing the same. When she turned to face him, a gust of ocean breeze blew her hair into her eyes. Ethan's fingers were there in an instant to help push it away, and after tucking it behind her ear, his hand lingered on the side of her face. Sawyer wrapped her hand around his wrist to hold it in place as their eyes met in contemplation.

Ethan considered whether the instant gratification was worth it, knowing it would make their inevitable goodbye that much harder. Given their current realities, he was under no illusion that this would be anything more than a spring break fling. But the voice of reason was drowned out by the overwhelming need to taste her lips and feel her skin under his fingertips. In that instant, he decided the reward far outweighed the risk. 

During those few seconds of hesitation, Sawyer made her mind up too. When she wrapped her other hand around the back of his neck, the dam broke. 

Though their lips were eager to meet, their first kiss was not hurried. It started soft and slow. Ethan pulled back after a moment to gauge Sawyer’s reaction, seeing the smile in her eyes. When he felt the gentle tug on the back of his neck urging him to return to her lips, he angled his head to the other side and kissed her again. Sawyer parted her lips, inviting him deeper. Their kisses grew in intensity, and the longer they stayed lip-locked, the more desperate they became for more.

Tongues still dancing together, Ethan clumsily backed them away from the railing and toward a reclining chaise lounge. Mindful of her wounded leg, he laid down so that Sawyer could straddle him. 

Eager to feel more of him, Sawyer lifted his shirt over his head. As her fingers dragged over the contradiction of velvety skin and concrete muscle, Ethan’s fingers found their way under the hem of her shirt. The lower hers traveled, the higher his went. When she reached the button of his jeans, Sawyer hesitated.

His hands instantly dropped to hers, tenderly wrapping them in his own. “If you want to stop, we can. This is probably a terrible idea given the odds of seeing each other again.”

The fact that he was being so considerate only made her want him more. If she was going to check this experience off of her college bucket list, she wanted to do it with him. 

Staring down at their joined hands, she shook her head. “No, I want to. I’m just a little nervous,” she confessed, looking up with a shy smile. “And honestly, the fact that we probably won’t see each other again seems like a good enough excuse to just give in. No strings attached. No complications,” she assured him. “Do you? Want to stop?” 

“Hell no. I want you,” he insisted, squeezing her hands. “It’s just… I don’t usually do this sort of thing… but I just can’t seem to get enough of you.” Ethan rubbed the knuckles of her hand with his thumb. “I’ll take whatever you’re willing to give. No pressure.”

His eyes spoke nothing but the truth, and in response, Sawyer weaved her fingers through his. She then pushed their joined hands over his head, leaning down to capture his mouth in a heated kiss. 

When things turned red hot again, Sawyer murmured against his lips. “Do you have–”

“In my back pocket,” he whispered, letting go of her hands.

Sawyer laughed as she reached underneath him and shimmied her hand into his pocket. “For someone who doesn’t do this sort of thing–” 

“Let’s just say my roommate is the type to do this and wanted everyone to be prepared tonight,” Ethan defended, plucking the foil packets from her fingers. “As much as I hate to give him the satisfaction, I’ll have to remember to thank him later.” 

The stars in the night sky replaced the ones behind her eyes after experiencing something she could only describe as magical. Feeling as though she had finally descended back to Earth, Sawyer shifted in Ethan’s arms, attempting to disentangle herself and stand up.

“Not yet,” he begged, locking her up in his limbs.

She inhaled the scent of his bare skin and placed a kiss over his still thundering heart, “Okay.”

The ocean mist cooled their flushed skin as they stole gentle kisses from each other, hoping the next wouldn’t have to be the last. Propping herself up on an elbow, Sawyer stared down into Ethan’s moonlit eyes.

“What?” he asked, confused.

“It’s just… you’ve been so amazing, and I don’t even know your name,” she giggled.

Caressing the side of her face, “Let’s keep it that way. It will be easier to let each other go. No complications, remember?” 

Nodding in agreement, “Okay. No complications,” she echoed. Sawyer repeated the mantra in her head several times as she reluctantly pried herself free of Ethan’s embrace. “I should find my friend before she starts to worry.”

“Right.”

They handed each other pieces of clothing and got dressed. Standing in front of each other, Sawyer reached up and took Ethan’s face in her hands, offering him a final kiss goodbye. Ethan swept his hands over her hair and held her head as he returned the sentiment, not letting go until they were both out of breath. 

Slowly they pulled away. Sawyer took a few steps backward, before finally turning her back to him and walking away. Before descending the spiral staircase, she turned her head and met Ethan’s gaze. “Bye, Moondoggie.”

“Bye… Gidge?” he tried to remember. 

With an affirmative nod and final wave, Sawyer winded her way down the stairs. 

She found Christian inside, sitting on Tobias’ lap. They were watching and laughing as Stinky, whose real name she thought was Andrew, sang a horrible karaoke rendition of Gotye’s “Somebody that I Used to Know.” 

When Christian spotted her friend in the doorway, she whispered to Tobias that she’d be right back. “Hey! Are you good? Have you been having fun?”

“Yep,” Sawyer beamed uncontrollably. 

“Hold up,” Christian looked her up and down, “Sawyer, did you…?” 

Sawyer eagerly shook her head in the affirmative. 

“You and your lifeguard?” 

Sawyer nodded again. 

“Eeeek! Girl, how was it? Are you okay?”

“I’m good. Really good. It was incredible.”

Part 3: The Realization

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @peonierose  @potionsprefect @trappedinfanfiction @jerzwriter @queencarb @coffeeheartaddict2 @quixoticdreamer16 @jamespotterthefirst @liaromancewriter @zealouscanonindeer @tveitertotwrites @tessa-liam @youlookappropriate @kyra75 @socalwriterbee @txemrn @midnightmelodiz

[storyofmychoices]

International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Celebrating three of the loveliest ladies: Olivia Hadley, Merida Rhys (@lilyoffandoms), and Casey MacTavish (@jerzwriter)

The interviewer sat down with Olivia, Merida, and Casey in the comfort of the diagnostic office, which the boys had since been required to vacate, despite one Ethan Ramsey grumpily insisting that it was his office and he would do no such thing. But today was not about him or any of the men. Today was about the girls! (As all days truly should be.)

Interviewer: Thank you all for joining me today. It's my pleasure to sit down with not one but three young, successful, and distinguished women of science in medicine. Olivia, you're a pediatrician, and Casey and Merida, you both work as diagnosticians. How did you find your passion for medicine?

Olivia: Well, for me, it started when I was a little girl. I loved diagnosing and caring for my bears and dolls. I took my toy stethoscope everywhere, set on saving the world. Now, it's about wanting to make a positive impact in children's lives. The joy of helping them grow up healthy and happy is truly a gift.

Casey: I've wanted to be a doctor as long as I can remember and was drawn to the diagnostic side of medicine early on. The challenge of solving complex medical cases and uncovering the root cause has been a driving force for me.

Merida: Likewise, the puzzle-solving aspect fascinated me. Being a diagnostician allows us to dive deeper into medical mysteries—be a detective of sorts—it's a constant learning experience.

Interviewer: In the fast-paced world of medicine, how do you manage work-life balance, and do you have any advice for others aspiring to do the same?

Olivia: Two words. Self-care! It's definitely about prioritizing self-care and making time for things that are important to me. I've particularly found yoga helpful and have a therapy yoga group once a week with the children at the hospital. I've been trying to convince these two—*tilts her head toward her two friends*—to join me in some cat and warrior poses, but let's just say, my enthusiasm hasn't quite rubbed off on them.

Merida: You know we love you, Liv, but—

Casey: —yoga gives me more stress.

Olivia: *laughs softly* I'll convert them one day. But seriously, it's important to make time to care for yourself. My advice is to remember that you can't take care of others if you don't take care of yourself first.

Casey: The work-life balance is a juggling act, especially in diagnostics, where cases can be unexpectedly demanding and our schedules become unpredictable. Time management and setting realistic expectations are key. It's also important to have a support system, both at work and home and don't be afraid to take a break for a few minutes when you need it. Even a short break can make a difference.  

Merida: In the diagnostic world, there's this constant pursuit of answers to solve the puzzle. To maintain balance, I've learned to compartmentalize. When I'm at work, I'm fully engaged, my mind is completely on the job. When I'm off-duty, I prioritize personal time. My advice is to find what works for you and not feel guilty about taking breaks. Balance is subjective, and it's about finding harmony that aligns with your values and what you need.

Casey: It doesn't hurt to have great friends to fall back on either.

Merida: I can't argue with that!

Olivia: Group hug! *wraps her arms around her friends pulling them in*

The three laugh and tease each other before settling back into the interview!

Interviewer: Edenbrook Hospital is known for its collaborative and supportive environment. How does that dynamic play out in your day-to-day work?

Olivia: Pediatrics often involves collaboration with various specialists to provide comprehensive care. Having a hospital with a culture that encourages teamwork is crucial for our young patients. Sometimes, even the little ones end up with rare and difficult-to-diagnosis illnesses. When that's the case, I'm glad that I have Merida and Casey to reach out to for help. 

Merida: Absolutely. In diagnostics, collaboration is key as well. We consult with each other and different departments to ensure we're considering all angles when tackling a case. We need to make sure we keep an open relationship with all departments so we know they'll be there when we need them. 

Casey: Working in diagnostics, it's really a team effort. Nothing is done solo. We're in it together. It's like having a second, third, or even fourth set of eyes and brains. We share our thoughts and insights, debate until we reach an agreement, and ultimately work together to provide the best care for our patients.

Merida: *laughs* Debate! That's a good word for what occurs between Ramsey and Carrick. But, you're right, at the end of the day, all we do is for the best of our patients. 

Interviewer: Women in science are often underrepresented. How do you navigate this space and inspire the next generation of female medical professionals?

Olivia: Representation matters. By excelling in our respective fields, we hope to show aspiring female doctors that they belong and can thrive in the world of medicine. For me, I want all the little girls I work with to know they are capable of greatness even now when they're so young. 

Merida: It's about breaking stereotypes. We're not just doctors; we're diagnosticians and pediatricians—capable professionals contributing significantly to the medical field. We always look for ways to better ourselves and our field. We work together and support one another.

Casey: Exactly! Collaboration and support are absolutely essential, not just between ourselves and our teams but with younger medical students. Mentorship is crucial. Encouraging young women to pursue careers in science and medicine, providing guidance, and showing them that they can succeed are vital for creating lasting change.

Merida: We were honored to be invited to a local high school last week to speak with some science classes to try to encourage women in the sciences. 

Casey: We've also spoken as guest lecturers at Boston College. It was inspiring to see so many students at the start of their medical journeys.

Olivia: Speaking of starts, I don't think you can ever be too young to be inspired for a future in medicine. I was lucky enough to attend a career day at a local elementary school. It was really cute to see so many potential future doctors running around in their play lab coats! Seriously, I don't know how you two deal with adult patients all day when you could be spending time with little cuties!

Merida: It takes a special person to connect with kids the way you do, Liv. I've seen it firsthand. I think Casey and I are better suited for the medical mysteries of the adult world. Kids need someone with your warmth and patience. You've found your calling, and we've found ours. It's a good balance. The world needs both!

Olivia: Love you! Both of you! I think supporting each other is the best way we can help each other and foster a positive environment for future female doctors and scientists.

Casey: Too often women in the workplace are pitted against one another. Medicine is no exception.

Merida: Overcoming that and moving forward with a mindset of supporting and encouraging each other makes the workplace a better place for all and better for our patients.

Interviewer: Your support of each other is beautiful to witness. You three are not only inspirational doctors but also exemplars of enduring friendship, a bond I'm certain benefits all who walk in the doors of Edenbrook.

[alwaysmychoices]

Every Night

Synopsis: Now that Charlie and Ethan are back together, they spend the first night of their new lives together -- and Ethan has a question to ask.

Chapter 44 of the “with and without” series

Previous Series: “a weekend with dr. ramsey”

Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x MC (Charlotte “Charlie” Greene)

Words: 2.9k

Rating: General Audience

Also available on AO3 & Wattpad (link in Masterlist)

There was something so peaceful about Ethan’s apartment tonight. Had this apartment always been peaceful? No, it couldn’t have been. Only last night, it was a mausoleum dedicated to the loss of true love.

But tonight, it was impossible to imagine these halls echoing anything but affection and contentment. The air tasted sweeter, the space felt warmer, the laughs were louder. One night of Charlie’s presence exorcised the ghosts that haunted Ethan in the middle of the night.

The change was subtle, but Ethan felt it with every step he took.

She’s here, he thought as he towel-dried his hair. She’s here, he thought as he stepped into his pajamas. She’s here, he thought as he savored the smell of her shampoo lingering in the damp air. She’s here, he thought as he padded to the living room.

Boston stared back at him through the windows – all the tallest buildings winking their congratulations.

The dim-lit space left evidence of Charlie’s presence in every corner – her shoes by the door, the crumbled pillow by her favorite chair, and the assortment of hair ties that followed her every step. Ethan was greedy for more of it, his usual tidiness be damned.

Ethan poured himself a glass of water and tapped the keypad of his laptop, waking it so he could check the time. With Charlie, time seemed to stop, but just as he suspected, it had continued for the rest of the world. It was late, so late that they should have been in bed hours ago if Charlie wanted to be well-rested for work tomorrow. But Ethan didn’t regret a moment of their night, nor was he eager to go to sleep now.

Stifling a yawn, Ethan curiously opened his notifications, and he was startled by the staggering amount.

At the top of the screen were the expected messages. HR paperwork for his new position with the hospital. Confirmation emails for cancelled movers. Pleas from a devastated recruiter trying to convince him to leave Boston anyway.

Then, there were the text messages reacting to the news. The Edenbrook rumor mill worked quickly, and by the time Ethan picked up Charlie from work, there were already whispers about their illicit affair.

Harper’s message came first. She was happy to hear that Charlie and Ethan were together, but she chastised Ethan for keeping the secret in the first place, though she insisted she’d sensed it long ago. She demanded dinner with the two of them as an apology, and Ethan typed back his assent, apologizing for lying to his friend and promising to make dinner reservations as soon as possible.

When Ethan sent his reply, he was surprised to realize that he was looking forward to dinner with Charlie and Harper. It wasn’t the first time that the trio spent time together, but it would be the first dinner where Charlie and Ethan didn’t have to perform, stifling themselves to avoid drawing attention to their relationship. Ethan liked the idea of integrating Charlie fully into his life – acknowledging the long-held truth that she was the most important part of it.

Above Harper’s gracious congratulations, Tobias Carrick sent a string of texts. It was clear that he hadn’t paced himself or censored a single thought, resulting in a string of consciousness as Tobias unraveled the revelations.

TOBIAS: I KNEW IT! I can’t believe you got caught MAKING OUT with a RESIDENT before you told me!

TOBIAS: Though Charlie is wonderful.

TOBIAS: So why does she like you then? She knows you enough to know better. How did you convince her to date you?

TOBIAS: Someone just told me you’ve been dating for a year. That better be a lie.

TOBIAS: No, it’s not. You’ve been evasive all year. That’s why, isn’t it?

TOBIAS: Then again, you’re always evasive and awkward.

TOBIAS: My office is next to yours, and I swear I heard noises today.

TOBIAS: Just heard the news that you’re leaving. Don’t fret. I’ll be the leader the Diagnostics Team has always needed.

The last message came a few hours later, when Tobias had clearly processed the news and felt it necessary to give a more cohesive and gracious response.

TOBIAS: Seriously though, congratulations. I’m proud of you.

TOBIAS: But don’t screw it up.

Ethan didn’t really consider Tobias a friend – not after their antagonistic history and current conflicts. But this string of texts tugged on some part of Ethan’s heart that had once considered Tobias his best friend. Perhaps it was worth trying again, even if this was just evidence that Tobias was as insufferable as ever.

ETHAN: Thank you.

There wasn’t much else to say, so Ethan didn’t bother trying. And frankly, for him, it was quite a lot.

After Tobias’s messages, there were a few more. Some of Charlie’s friends reached out to say they were happy for them. Sienna tentatively endorsed the relationship, though she reserved the right to murder Ethan if he messed up again. Jackie’s threats against Ethan were far less veiled, and Bryce sent at least a dozen excited emojis.  Naveen wrote with glee, boasting that their reunion had all gone to plan. When Ethan questioned Naveen’s direct defiance, Naveen ignored the question and offered the happy couple a weekend at his lake house to celebrate. Gracious for the offer (and Naveen’s interference), Ethan didn’t push it.

Nor did he need to push it.

Because there she was – his darling, wonderful Charlotte.

With Jenner close on her heels, Charlie wandered into the kitchen. The familiar scent of coconut and vanilla followed her, enveloping Ethan’s senses long before she looped her arms around his waist and nuzzled into him.

“There you are,” Charlie murmured, resting her cheek on his bare back. His skin was warm and scented with the mixture of their respective body washes – each still sitting in Ethan’s shower as if no time had passed.

In some ways, that made Charlie sad. She didn’t like to picture Ethan ending each night, staring at her half-empty bodywash and refusing to throw it away, even when he’d lost hope of her ever coming home. But the grief for their lost time was only a momentary interruption. In its wake, gratitude emerged. Because she had come home, and the bodywash was still waiting for her.

 Ethan smiled softly, abandoning his laptop and twisting his body so that they were face-to-face.  He leaned down to kiss the crown of her head, and Charlie shifted, leaning further into his embrace.

“What are you up to?” Charlie asked, her voice still in a daze.

The day had been so perfect – their reunion, their afternoon, their time at home. They’d spent most of the evening tangled in Ethan’s sheets, but not a moment of it had been quiet. They’d consumed each other in every way possible, from touch to speech. No time had passed, yet there was so much to catch up on.

“Missing you,” Ethan confessed.

Charlie laughed, “It’s been ten minutes since I kicked you out of the shower so I could actually wash my hair without you distracting me.”

“Way too long.”

“You’re ridiculous,” Charlie rolled her eyes, but it was the blush creeping up her cheeks that made Ethan smile. He kissed the flush as it spread up her skin, and he smiled against her cheek as she laughed.

Had anyone else ever been so happy?

“But really,” Charlie playfully swatted Ethan’s shoulder, “What are you doing? If it’s work, I’ll be obligated to make fun of you.”

Ethan shook his head, shifting so they could both face the laptop, “You’ll enjoy this.”

With a few clicks, Ethan brought up Tobias’s text thread. Somehow, the messages were even funnier from Charlie’s perspective. He lit up as he watched her read the messages, laughing at things he hadn’t even noticed before. Then, he showed her the other congratulatory messages. He thought she would like to see the well-wishes, but really, it was a silent effort to show he embraced the promises he’d made to her. He wanted her to know that he wasn’t hiding her anymore.

And Charlie appreciated every bit of it.

She reveled in the idea of dinners with friends. She wanted to be Ethan’s “plus one” to every event, even she’d have to throw her own party to get the opportunity. She liked how easily they talked about it, how Ethan actively participated in their planning without any pressure.

It was night and day from the man she’d once stormed out on.

Her chest ached with pride.

When Ethan reached Naveen’s message, he almost seemed nervous. As if suggesting a weekend away might break their fragile perfection.

“What do you think?” Ethan asked, when Charlie had sufficient time to read the exchange, “A weekend at the lake?”

Ethan had a whole pitch planned out. He was ready to remind Charlie that spring had just reached the city, the sunshine melting the ice and promising new beginnings. They could get out of the city and reconnect in the place where they’d first fallen in love. It felt like the right place to start their new chapter.

But a pitch wasn’t necessary.

“Yeah,” Charlie smiled softly, “A weekend with Dr. Ramsey. Sounds perfect.”

“A weekend with Dr. Greene,” Ethan echoed, mirroring her soft smile as he rubbed a gentle pattern on her back.

Charlie leaned into Ethan’s side, exhaustion peaking through their blinding happiness. Both of them were tempted to evade sleep altogether and stay awake all night, trading their wasted hours of rest with the promise of tender whispers and sacred promises. But relaxation had already seeped into their bones and lowered their defenses. They were both fighting to stay awake.

It was Ethan who declared the first move.

Pressing a tender kiss to Charlie’s forehead, Ethan suggested, “We should go to bed.”

“No, no,” Charlie shook her head, “It’s too early.”

“You have to be at work in a few hours,” Ethan reminded her, though he lacked conviction. He was just as willing to stay up all night as she was, if not more so since he didn’t have a morning shift.

“I’m a resident. I can handle a sleepless night.”

“Come on,” Ethan nudged her gently, “You’re being stubborn.”

“So are you.”

Ethan shrugged, Fair point.

Charlie eyed him warily – ready for battle. Ready for their opposing wills to dominate their minds until they were forced to pick a winner. Ready to draw blood before admitting defeat.

But then a moment passed, and it was all silly.

Charlie was tired, and Ethan would still be here in the morning. He would be there the night after, and the day after, and every day they were willing to share.

So, Charlie said, “Fine. Let’s go to bed.”

Ethan appreciated the magnanimous resolution, and he peppered her cheeks with quiet praise. Though, admittedly, he was inclined to think that everything Charlotte did was perfect. After kissing Jenner goodnight, the pair went to Ethan’s bedroom, ignoring the alarm clock on Ethan’s bedside table that would surely ruin their morning.

It wasn’t Charlie’s first time in Ethan’s bed tonight, but when she climbed into her usual place on the right side of the bed, it felt monumental.

The rose-colored glasses of their reunion lifted, and the gravity of the situation forced them back to earth. Instead of feeling silly for their reverence, they felt absurd for not having more.

War is over. The end of days never came. Insurmountable grief faded away. All the terrible things didn’t matter anymore. The past was in black and white, and the future was painted in vivid color and neon welcome signs.

Charlie is home. Charlie is in our bed. Everything is right, Ethan thought.

Charlie and Ethan tried to act casual as they settled into the sheets, but they couldn’t help but stare at the other. Their eyes were wide with meaning, communicating what neither had the bravery to say. When Charlie’s eyes began to water, Ethan quietly stroked her cheek.

After what felt like a lifetime, Ethan whispered, “I really did miss you.”

As if something like that needed to be said. As if it didn’t carry through every conversation. As if it wasn’t part of his DNA. As if she didn’t feel it with every adoring kiss and smile.

“I missed you, too,” Charlie met his honesty with her own, though her voice lacked his strength. At the slightest hint of a crack, Ethan tucked Charlie into his embrace, and Charlie took the opportunity to breath him in.

Sandalwood. Cedar. Vanilla. A hint of mint.

The smell of home, she thought.

Nestled safely in Ethan’s arms, Charlie’s eyelids grew heavy. Weeks of sleepless nights caught up with her in an instant, rendering her half-asleep in mere moments. As Ethan peered down at her, his chest squeezed with affection.

And suddenly, he knew.

He knew with absolute certainty that Charlotte Greene was his future.

He was overcome with an urge to propose right then and there. It didn’t matter that he didn’t have a ring or a plan or even ambience. Ethan just wanted to marry her. Hell, given the option, he would have run to City Hall right then and there to seal the deal.

Ethan opened his mouth to speak, but something stopped him.

We need time, he realized. The wounds were too fresh and the peace too fragile. He didn’t want to rush into anything that would endanger their precious newfound happiness, nor did he need to rush.

So, despite his overwhelming urge to the contrary, Ethan decided to wait – and it was just waiting. Not refusing or dismissing the idea. He knew they would make it, and he was sure that she would say yes when it was time.

But stopping himself from proposing didn’t eradicate all Ethan’s impulses.

No, he wasn’t out of grand gestures or over-eager requests.

“Move in with me,” Ethan blurted out.

Charlie stirred, wiping at her eyes as she sleepily asked, “What?”

“Move in with me,” Ethan repeated, less confident this time.

“You’re serious?” Charlie’s eyes widened.

“I am,” Ethan nodded, though he didn’t seem very sure. Despite his obvious commitment to the idea she move in, he didn’t have his argument ready – a rarity in itself. Ethan had never made any big life decision without a reasoned argument.

“You’re always here anyway,” Ethan softened, eagerness belying every justification, “and I want you here. All the time. I want to come home to you and share our closet, and I want to add your books to our bookshelves. We’re living in the ‘in between’ – with you sometimes living here and sometimes not. I’m tired of that. I want to be with you fully. In every way I can. This isn’t home without you.”

Charlie hesitated.

She was startled to realize that she already knew the answer. Before he even started talking, she wanted to say yes. And there was no good reason to say no.

It seemed rushed, but was it really? They’d been together for over a year, and she’d spent more nights here than anywhere else. Did time apart fundamentally change that? Did they feel so fragile that sudden changes would shatter them? Or had it been the status quo that drove them apart in the first place?

And did any of it fucking matter?

Would waiting really make things better? Would a slow approach save them from future disaster? Hiding hadn’t done them any favors, nor had abundant caution kept them from starting their relationship in the first place.

Charlie wanted to come home to Ethan. She wanted to put a name to all the things they’d silently endorsed for months, including her continued presence in this apartment. She wanted to cover the space with evidence of their relationship until it was little more than a shrine.

So, perhaps she didn’t give the offer the careful consideration it deserved. Or maybe she gave it too much consideration when the answer would always be the same.

“Yes,” Charlie blurted out.

“Wait, really?”

“Yeah,” Charlie nodded, realization creeping across her features, “My answer is yes. I want to move in with you.”

Ethan breathed a sigh of relief, happily covering her face with kisses. Between excited kisses, he assured her that she could always keep her old apartment, and he would understand if she changed her mind.

Charlie stopped him, “You don’t need to do that.”

“Do what?”

“Try to form a back-up plan,” Charlie settled her gaze on his, “I’m confident we’ll work out.”

“You are?” Ethan repeated breathlessly. It was one thing for Ethan to be blind in love, but it was quite another to realize she was just as high off this feeling.

“Yeah,” Charlie rested her hand on his chest, feeling the jackhammer of his heart, “Aren’t you?”

And amazingly, he was.

Nodding his head, Ethan whispered, “Yeah, I am.”

“Good,” Charlie leaned her head against his chest, “I love you, Ethan.”

“I love you, too, Charlotte.”

That was how they fell asleep – holding onto each other with persistent desperation and adoring reverence. Like they were so lucky to even get the opportunity to fall asleep together. Like it was a gift from the universe that they were here with each other. But it was better than fate – it was deliberate choice. It was an active effort to stay.

And it was the beginning of everything.

[alj4890]

You Heard, What!

(Tobias Carrick x F!MC) and (Aurora Emery x M!OC) in a Choices Open Heart Drabble

Tobias Carrick Appreciation Week

Day 7 WWTD? He's walking past an on-call room and hears two coworkers having sex. What does he do?

A/N For this short fic, Tobias and Chris are newly married. When he overhears something interesting, he goes directly to the one person he can tease. And yes, I do intend to write some followups for this situation, LOL!

Masterlist

Edenbrook, late one night...

Unusually loud sounds were coming from the oncall room. Tobias paused the closer he got. His lips curved in a sly smile as he leaned closer to the door.

No doubt about it. Someone was having a very good time in there. Just as he was about to walk away to give the unknown couple some privacy, he heard a familiar voice.

Eyes widening, he flattened his ear to the door to try and confirm his suspicions of the source.

"Will?" He whispered, his smile growing bigger in hearing the unmistakable voice of one of his best friends.

Dr. William Kent, a pediatric surgeon, had recently joined Edenbrook's roster of physicians.

Tobias couldn't help but be impressed that his friend was already hooking up with someone in the hospital. It'd only been a couple of weeks since he began working there. He knew he shouldn't have doubted him. The fun loving man was not only handsome, but had a history of charming women out of their clothes.

Just as Tobias decided he shouldn't be listening, he heard another familiar voice, one that shocked him.

Dr. Aurora Emery.

Tobias's former diagnostics partner was many things: intelligent, practical, and private. She wasn't the last person he'd expect to have sex at work, because she wasn't even on the list of people he knew who would consider doing so.

Aurora displayed little romantic interest in anyone. Whenever Chris tried to encourage her to flirt with someone or pay attention to someone checking her out, she always gave the same response.

"No thanks."

It drove Chris crazy that one of her best friends was missing out on dating.

"She's great!" Chris told him one night. "A lot of fun, once you get past her protective, cold outer shell."

She slumped down in her chair.

"Why won't she date someone?"

"She was the same at Mass Kenmore. A few people tried to flirt with her and she shut them down." He said.

"It kills me." Chris grumbled. "She deserves to let someone tell her how great she is."

***************

If he was to go by the moans Will was making, Aurora was definitely being told how great she was.

Shaking his head in amusement, Tobias made his way to the diagnostics office.

Chris looked up from her laptop when her husband walked in.

"Almost finished?" He asked, pressing a kiss to her lips.

"I am." She closed her screen. "I was looking further into a theory of mine."

She noticed the amused, smug smile upon his face.

"What's going on?"

Tobias winked at her. "Nothing."

Her eyes narrowed. "That's," she pointed at his smile, "not nothing."

He tugged her out of her chair and wrapped his arms around her.

In a singsong voice, he decided to tease her.

"I know something you don't know."

"What?" Chris demanded, her laughter bubbling out.

"Not going to tell." He replied. "Ready to go home?"

"Hang on!" She gripped the lapels of his doctor's coat. "You can't keep secrets from me!"

"Who says?" He teased.

"Um, our vows." She told him.

"I don't remember that from our wedding ceremony."

"You were only concentrated on the honeymoon." Chris teased. "You don't know what you promised me."

"Ouch." He playfully winced. "Fair, but ouch."

"Tobias." She whined, bouncing up and down. "Tell me."

"Hmm." His eyes twinkled with mischief. "What's in it for me?"

Chris gasped. "You expect me to bribe you?"

He nodded.

Smiling, she slipped her arms around him. "What kind of bride are we talking here?"

He pulled her flush against his body. "I think you know exactly what kind of bribe I expect."

Her eyes darted down to his lips. "I think that can be arranged."

She looked about at the empty office. "Though, I think I'll wait until we're home to pay the price for this information."

Tobias chuckled. "What I know is that two people we know decided not to wait."

"What?" Chris gasped. "Who?"

"Come with me." He grasped her hand and led her out of the office.

The two crept down the hall where the oncall room was located. Placing a finger on his lips, Tobias sneaked over to listen at the door. Chris waited until he motioned her over to join him.

She pressed her ear against the wooden barrier. Her eyebrows rose in astonishment.

"Is that--" she mouthed in disbelief.

"Yep."

Chris silently celebrated.

Tobias chuckled softly over her victory dance.

"I can't believe it!" She whispered excitedly. "How long do you think they've been doing this."

Tobias checked the time. "At least thirty minutes."

"Not that!" She elbowed him. "I meant getting together."

He shrugged. "I think we should think about something more important than that."

Chris looked at him curiously.

"Now that we know," he whispered, "what should we do with this information?"

She began to shake with muffled laughter.

"There's only one thing we can do." She told him. "And that's hint that we know and tease them until they finally admit what they're doing."

Tobias couldn't be more proud of having Chris for his wife.

"God, I love you." He murmured.

Smiling with a future now filled with moments of torturing those they loved, the couple left to plan out their attack.

[spadesofgrass]

from the one word prompt coffee shop for Sunny

Thank you so much!

[16:23] Sunny: hey dad, are we still down for that talk? [16:23] Sunny: it is pretty important and kind of personal ish and [16:23] Sunny: do i get you something to eat? they have the tea you like here ill go and order it up. im at the coffee place next door btw [16:29] Sunny: i’m not sure if its a problem on my end cuz the checks say you’ve read my texts?? [16:30] Sunny: can we talk please? i promise i’ll explain everything. [16:32] <Sunny has deleted this message> [16:32] Sunny: can you just let me know if you’re showing up or not [16:33] <Sunny has deleted this message> [16:34] Missed call. [16:34] Missed call. [16:35] Missed call.

A bit of context: Sunny's dad flunked out of his intern year - couldn't pass his boards, so he'd always wanted his kid to be better than he was. Here, Sunny ends up quitting her internship at a previous teaching hospital before she came to Edenbrook, which deeply upsets her dad. Even though she can transfer her residency program, it disappoints him a lot because of the cost, etc. And the fact that he doesn't like it when his children are acting up.

[jerzwriter]

Hey guys! It's been busy, and I have not been feeling good about writing much lately, but I have a few Smuttember requests I wanted to get done. This is the first one, based on this ask, jealousy for Ethan x Kaycee. Thanks for the ask, Nonny. I hope you enjoy it.

Book: Open Heart (Book 2 Timeline) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Kaycee MacClennan (F!MC), Tobias Carrick, Clarissa Stanton (F!OC) Rating: Mature Words: 2,500 ish Summary: Everyone is crazy about the new addition to the team. Dr. Clarissa Stanton is a rising star in the medical community, and Edenbrook is lucky to have her. She seems to warm up to everyone, well... almost everyone... and there is someone she's warming up to a little too much, and it's not sitting well with Kaycee. See how it all works out.

A/N: Participating in @choicesprompts Smuttember. #27 Jealousy, but also #17, Reclaiming, too. I didn't have much time to edit - so forgive errors. :)

“Dr. Stanton, please report to the Diagnostic Team office. Dr. Stanton, Diagnostic Team office.”

It was innocent enough. Just one of the dozens of announcements heard over the PA system at Edenbrook Hospital on any given day. It shouldn’t have caused any alarm, but these days, just the mention of Dr. Stanton’s name made Kaycee’s blood turn cold. She clenched the pencil in her hand so tightly that it snapped in half, taking her and a nurse standing nearby by surprise.

“Dr. MacClennan,” the nurse smiled. “What did that pencil ever do to you?”

Kaycee replied with a pleasant smile, attributing the pencil assault to a lack of sleep and voluminous quantities of caffeine, but she knew that wasn't the truth. The innocent pencil was collateral damage in the cold war taking place between her and Dr. Clarissa Stanton, a war Kaycee was growing tired of.  

Clarissa was a new fellow at Edenbrook. She had come to them from “the most distinguished residency program in the U.S.,” as Ethan reminded everyone. Daily. “It was quite the coup for us to land her,” he had told the diagnostic team triumphantly as Tobias made an off-color comment about 'landing.' Kaycee had heard of her; of course, her research had been the talk of the medical community for the past couple of years, and she was excited to have the opportunity to work together. Still, Tobias’s comment piqued her interest, so she quickly Googled her name.

Kaycee raised a brow when she saw the image load on her phone. Clarissa was striking – a face that looked like the girl next door if the girl next door had been a teenage model. Long, light brown hair and big, brown eyes that managed to be innocent and sultry at the same time. Her LinkedIn photo showed her propped up on a desk, her legs crossed and wholly swallowed up by her lab coat. There wasn’t a skirt in sight.

She would definitely have to warn her new colleague about Tobias, but none of this mattered. What mattered was Dr. Stanton’s research on off-label use of psychotropic medications, which had led to breakthroughs in more conditions than Kaycee could recall. What mattered was the impassioned testimony she had made before Congress recently, which landed her in the news cycle for weeks on end. She was a rising star... a once-in-a-generation talent. And because God clearly played favorites, of course, she was beautiful too.

Later that day, Kaycee had lunch with Tobias, and she warned her friend to keep things professional and don’t dare scare her away. Little did Kaycee know that the beautiful newcomer was one of the few women on the planet who were immune to the charms of one Dr. Carrick. No, Clarissa had made it clear from day one that she had her sights set on someone else.

She had a friendly, approachable demeanor, bordering on flirtatious, and she assimilated into both the team and the hospital with ease. Her well-earned air of confidence sometimes bordered on arrogance, but she was charming enough that no one seemed to care. Clarissa was impressive, and everyone was smitten. She seemed happy to be a friend to all, with one exception. Kaycee.

It wasn’t for Kaycee’s lack of trying. In fact, she had to stop herself from fangirling when the new doctor first arrived. But while Clarissa ate up attention from others, when it came to Kaycee, she seemed annoyed and did her best to distance herself.

When Kaycee pointed this out, even to her best friends, they insisted Kaycee was imagining things as they, too, were taken in. She resigned herself to being the sole outsider in the Dr. Stanton fan society, but she could still learn from her, and they could still work together. There was no way Kaycee wouldn’t be supportive of another up-and-coming woman in the medical field; they faced enough and needed to stick together. But there was one thing Kaycee couldn’t continue to ignore.

“There she is!” The normally curmudgeonly Dr. Ramsey beamed when Clarissa appeared for the team’s morning meeting. “And what brilliant theories are you going to grace us with today, Dr. Stanton?”

Kaycee snapped another pencil in half under the desk. Tobias, the only one who noticed, raised a brow. Leaning in close, he whispered, “Pencils are no longer safe in your presence, MacClennan. What gives?”

She ignored him, but she couldn’t ignore the way Clarissa hovered close to Ethan throughout their rounds- again - today. Or the way she asked questions and made comments that felt just a little too… familiar. She watched as Clarissa’s hand lingered on Ethan’s shoulder just a little longer than it should and bit her lip when she erupted in laughter every time Ethan cracked a joke... bad jokes.

Still, Kaycee kept it together. She was a professional, after all, and she had nothing to worry about. Her relationship with Ethan was solid, even if their relationship was a secret to ninety percent of the planet. Her residency was ending in just months, he reminded her constantly, and they’d be Instagram official very soon. But right now, a few months felt like decades away.

That day turned out to be particularly grueling. Kaycee had been assigned to work in oncology with a miserable attending who did everything they could to undermine her at every step of the way. If that weren't enough, she learned the case she had been working on for the past week, the one she knew she was close to breaking, was miraculously solved by none other than Ethan and Clarissa by way of two doctors discussing it in the third-floor lounge where she had gone for a moment of refuge.

“You should have seen them working together,” one doctor said. “It was seamless – like they could read each other’s minds.”

The second doctor concurred. “They have the makings of a medical power couple for sure. Edenbrook is already on the map, but they could make it the favored destination.”

Kaycee swallowed hard. That stung... a lot.

She decided to check in on one more patient before she left for the day. Mrs. Withers was just the ray of sunshine Kaycee needed right now, always bright and cheerful no matter what was taking place. Kaycee needed some of that magic to lift her spirits, and it worked... temporarily. She was about to step out of Mrs. Wither’s room when she heard their voices in the hall.

“I still can’t believe we solved the Dorrant case,” Ethan all but sang. “I was beginning to think that would be one of our rare dead ends.”

No matter that I told him I was close to solving it last night, Kaycee thought as her jaw tightened.

“There are no dead ends, Ethan,” Clarissa ensured. “Only angles that haven’t been examined. We're clever enough to find those angles; don't ever doubt it!"

“I’ve got to admit, I love your attitude.”

Kaycee shuddered; she could hear the smile in his voice, and she was about to break that case!

“Hey, we’re both leaving work,” Clarissa started. “What do you say we go grab a drink to discuss... future opportunities.”

Ethan didn't so much as hesitate before accepting the offer, and when Kaycee stepped out of the patient’s room she watched them step into the elevator together. It felt like a punch in the gut. She didn’t like when that little green monster clawed at her, but right he was drawing blood. She felt invisible, she felt lost, and the one person who could make her feel better was part of the reason why, and now, he was out with Clarissa.

Kaycee didn't go home. Instead, she took advantage of having the key to Ethan's penthouse, and that's where she waited. When Ethan returned to his apartment later that night, Kaycee was there – wearing a hole in his carpet as she paced back and forth. He walked in and glanced at the clock, then Kaycee. He knew something was amiss.

“Kaycee,” he droned, dropping his keys onto the marble counter with a clang. “I didn’t expect you to be here tonight.”

“Oh, I’m sure you didn’t,”  she spat, her firey eyes laced with a touch of pain. “I saw you leave the hospital with Clarissa. You two looked really... close.”

Ethan sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. “Kaycee, you know it isn't like that. We were just sharing a drink to discuss work. That’s all.”

But his answer did not suffice. She crossed her arms defensively before her chest, and her brows knitted together as she stood before him in the kitchen.

“Do you not see the way she looks at you? Or how she hangs on your every word? And she’s not like that with anyone else, Ethan, only with you!”

Ethan took a step closer. “Kaycee, Clarissa is a colleague. You have nothing to be worried about.”

“Don’t I?” she asked, disappointed with the level of desperation in her voice. “I was just a colleague once. Harper was once your colleague... don’t tell me she’s just your colleague and expect it to provide any comfort!”  Her anxiety was palpable as her eyes welled up with tears. “Ethan, I know it takes more than a pretty face to turn your head. But Clarissa isn’t just beautiful; she’s brilliant. She’s a rising star! Just the thing to make a sapiosexual like you take note!”

“Sapiosexual?” he chuckled.

“Don’t act like you’re unfamiliar with the term! You don’t get it, Ethan! She’s out there being all flirtatious with you, and I’m forced to keep our relationship hidden in the shadows like it's a dirty secret! Every time I see you two together, it feels like I’m the one who’s invisible. Like I'm the one who can be replaced!"

His eyes softened when he saw the extent of Kaycee’s pain, and he cupped her face in his hands, forcing her to look at him. “No one will ever replace you, Kaycee. No one. You’re it for me.” His voice was low, commanding, and sent shivers down her spine.

She bit her lip, too proud to allow the tears pooling in her eyes to fall. She took a cleansing breath and summoned her courage. “Then why do I feel like I’m fighting for you?”

His hand encircled her wrist, gripping it just tight enough to keep her from pulling away. “You feel that way because you’ve been bottling this up inside instead of coming to me. You haven’t given me a chance to remind you of what we are.” He leaned down, his lips brushing hers. “Let me remind you, Kaycee,” he whispered. “Let me remind you of who we are.”

Kaycee’s breath hitched; resistance was futile as he brought his lips back to hers, kissing her slowly, deliberately, as if she were the only other person alive. All the jealousy, frustration, and angst that had been consuming her melted away with that kiss, the heat between them igniting more with every passing second. He touched her with a wanton hunger that made her knees buckle. She leaned back against the kitchen counter so she wouldn’t fall.

This pleased Ethan, who was taking her in with a devilish grin; his hands began to roam over her body. Gripping her hips and pulling her against him, he lifted her onto the counter as she moaned softly, the frustration of the day unraveling as his hands claimed her and his lips traced down her neck to the sensitive skin of her chest. He unbuttoned her blouse.

“You think I want anyone else?” Ethan growled, his breath hot against her. “I’m yours, Kaycee. Every inch of me.”

Her hands fisted in his shirt, and she pulled him close, her body arching into his as she kissed him, biting his lip, relishing the control he offered her. He let out a low, primal groan as she worked her magic, taking back what was rightfully hers.

She hopped off the counter and led him to the living room, pushing him back on the couch. He didn’t fight her; this was just what he wanted. She shoved him into the cushions, straddling him in one swift movement, her blonde locks falling all around them. The air between them sizzled with a raw, palpable heat, and his heart nearly stopped when she lowered her hand and slipped her panties to the side. His hands gripped her thighs, grounding himself in the reality, the intensity of being inside the woman he loved. He swore all the air had escaped him. He was home.

“Do you think Clarissa could ever do this to you?” Kaycee whispered breathlessly in his ear, her hips grinding into him in a way that made him forget his own name.

“Not a fucking chance,” he rasped, pulling her closer, his lips devouring hers in a breathless kiss.

She kissed back harder, pouring proudly taking back all that belonged to her. She pressed her body against his as if to remind him she was the only one who could have him like this. His hands roamed up her back, their delicate touch sending chills down her spine. He pulled her closer to him as his hips lurched up to meet her. He needed her in every possible way; she was the only one who could set him on fire like this.

“Say it,” she demanded, her breath ragged, her lips swollen from his kisses. “Say it!”

“You’re mine, Kaycee,” he growled, his voice rough and heavy with desire. “You’re mine, and I’m yours... no one else matters.”

A satisfied smile spread on her lips, and his hands cupped her breasts as she threw her head back triumphantly. Heart, mind, and soul satiated; her body quivered around him, and sounds of pleasure filled the air as she found her release. Ethan’s movements became more erratic as he moved inside her; his eyes screwed closed to shut out the world, focusing solely on how they were joined, how he loved her, needed her, and wanted her more than anything he had ever known. He let out a cry as he reached his peak – his mind going blank as he emptied deep inside her. They collapsed together, silent, gasping softly as they tried to catch their breath, lost in the rapture they found themselves in.

There was no longer any doubt between them. He reached up and pushed a lock of hair behind her ear, his finger slowly caressing the curve of Kaycee’s precious face.

“Feeling any better,” he smiled.

“Much,” she grinned, nuzzling under his arm. “I love you, Ethan.”

“I love you, too.”

Sleep came quickly after, as they were lost in a world of their own creation.

~~~~

The following morning, Tobias was in the Diagnostic Team office when Clarissa came barreling in, two steaming hot cups of coffee in her hands.

“For me,” he smiled playfully. “You shouldn’t have.”

“Good," she grinned. "Because I didn’t." She placed one cup in front of Ethan's seat.

"Just for him?" Tobias questioned.

Clarissa shrugged nonchalantly. "It's to celebrate our win yesterday."

“With Starbucks?” he chuckled, raising his own cup of coffee to his lips. “If you’re trying to impress Ethan, that ain’t gonna do it.”

“What do you mean?” She asked, just as Kaycee stepped into the room, beaming as she placed a cup from Derry Roasters right next to Clarissa's offering.

“Tobias is right,” Kaycee smiled. “You have much to learn.”

Ethan entered the office and took in the scene. “I’m glad to see you’re already pouring over the documents for our next case,” he said sarcastically. “The initiative is heartwarming."

His face softened a bit when he saw Kaycee, who offered a clandestine wink. “Sorry, boss,” she grinned. “We were just discussing something far more important,” she motioned to his place at the table. “Like, what’s your favorite coffee.”

Ethan looked at the two cups, trying to stay diplomatic. "Let's just say I prefer local goodness over corporate greed."

"Damn!" Clarissa mock frowned. "I guess I owe you a cup from Derry's."

"Another time," Ethan smiled, taking a long sip from the cup as Tobias slid the Starbucks his way.

"I'm not as particular," Tobias winked.

They reviewed today's cases, and with marching orders given, Ethan was the first on his feet. He walked with purposeful steps toward Kaycee, placing a kiss atop her head before she had a chance to stand. "Have a good day, sweetheart. I'll meet you for lunch."

Clarissa's eyes went wide, choking on her iced latte. Tobias wore a wicked grin. "I thought you two were under wraps until her residency was over," he smirked. "Jesus! You only have two-and-a-half months left!"

Ethan looked back over his shoulder, a smug smile on his lips. "As if we're not the worst kept secret in Edenbrook anyway." With a wink in Kaycee's direction, he was out the door. Kaycee sat back in her chair. The warmth inside her had nothing to do with her beverage of choice. The stupid grin on her face made that perfectly clear.

"You all right there, MacClennan?" Tobias asked.

"Yes," she replied. "I'm perfect." After all, today was going to be a much better day.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[liaromancewriter]

The Next Chapter

Premise: Ethan looks back at the man he was through the lens of his apartment.

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Angsty Fluff. Words: 1,955

A/N: I had this fic idea for a while and finally got the right inspo to write. It's not quite fluff and not quite angst. Just reflective.

I. 2013

Ethan Ramsey scrawled his signature at the bottom of a stack of forms, the pen's nib leaving a dot of ink in its wake.

Who knew becoming a homeowner involved so much paperwork?

He smiled absently at the realtor’s chirpy chatter but didn’t engage in conversation. His mind was on a case waiting for him at Edenbrook. The patient’s syncope didn’t have an apparent cause yet, and he mentally listed the diagnostic tests he needed to order.

“All done.” The realtor handed him an envelope with his copy of the deed, other forms, and a set of keys. “Congratulations, Dr. Ramsey!”

The keys gleamed brightly under the fluorescent lights for a second, a beacon beckoning him to his future. And then they were just keys, one to his brand new high-rise apartment in a newly renovated historical building.

The check he’d cut for the down payment had taken a good chunk of his savings. But, now that he was an attending physician and making good money, he could afford it.

The apartment wasn’t just a place to him. It represented who he wanted to become—a cultured and sophisticated doctor who enjoyed opera, owned several custom suits and dated beautiful women. All while solving medicine’s biggest mysteries and being written up in medical journals.

Dr. Ethan Ramsey was on his way to achieving everything he’d set out to do in life.

He didn’t have time—he knew he didn’t—but he couldn’t resist. Instead of heading back to the hospital, he turned his car toward Downtown, noting the changing vistas outside the windshield and the blend of commercial and residential buildings as they neared the waterfront.

He liked the busyness and pockets of quiet, the coffee shops and restaurants within walking distance, and parks and squares tucked away between buildings.

When he’d started his home search, he’d figured to find a place close to work, the West End or Back Bay. Nothing there had appealed to him, and he found himself losing patience. Out of desperation or perhaps fear of losing the commission, his realtor asked him to take a chance on a new listing near Faneuil Hall.

So, he went for the viewing, and, thirty days later, he signed on the dotted line. And another thirty minutes after that, he placed the key in the front door lock and entered his new home.

Ethan walked into the living room, his eyes drawn to the view outside. From here, he could see the boats bobbing gently on the harbor and the distant outline of the city’s skyline. He could already imagine mornings with a cup of coffee in hand, watching the sunrise, or evenings unwinding with a glass of wine, the glow of the city lights reflecting off the water.

He moved through the open-plan living area to the kitchen, where state-of-the-art appliances gleamed beneath soft lighting. It was a space designed for serious cooking, and the idea of preparing a real meal here, maybe even for someone else, crossed his mind—an unfamiliar thought that he quickly brushed aside.

Finally, he found himself standing in the bedroom and the wall of windows that offered a stunning view of the city. He could already envision a large, inviting bed, crisp bedding with muted colors, calming. Here, he could let go of the day’s stresses and recharge for the battles that lay ahead.

As he stood there, Ethan realized how much he had needed this—more than just a place to sleep, but a sanctuary. A space that was his, where he could shed the relentless demands of his profession and simply be. He took a deep breath, feeling a rare sense of contentment settle over him.

In an hour, the chaos of his life would resume. There would be rounds to make, patients to treat and mountains to climb. But right now, in this quiet stolen moment, he savored the promise of what this new home could mean for him.

And as he turned away from the window, Ethan couldn’t help but sigh wistfully. Maybe, somebody, he’d shared this amazing view with a woman he loved enough to let her into his life.

His inner cynic scoffed. Sure. And maybe someday he’d become Chief of Medicine.

Ruefully shaking his head at the absurdity of his thoughts, Ethan locked the door behind him and went back to work.

II. 2018

Ethan poured himself a glass of red wine and sighed heavily, shoulders hunched in defeat. He didn’t know how long he could keep going like this. He hadn’t slept more than three or four hours a night for the last few weeks and long hours had finally caught up to him.

Despite his best efforts, he wasn’t close to figuring out what was wrong with Naveen. If he didn’t diagnose the mystery illness soon, he’d lose him just like he lost Dolores.

He was forever destined to lose the people he loved.

When the knock came, even though he’d been expecting her, it startled him from his depressing thoughts. Setting the nearly empty wine glass on the counter, he walked to the front door to let Cassie Valentine in.

The headache he’d been fighting all day suddenly reared again. Rubbing his eyes wearily, Ethan motioned her inside.

“Rookie. Come on in.”

“Wow. Nice digs,” Cassie walked past him into the living room.

The surprised tone was the same as when she had commented on his car. He wondered what was it about him that made her doubt his financial worth.

He shrugged as she gawked at the quiet luxury of his furnishings and the stunning views outside. There was a time when this space had calmed him after a long shift. It had been a source of pride when he hosted a dinner party once with Naveen’s learned friends.

Now, he couldn’t remember the last time he’d stood where she stood and just took it all in.

He did so now, but if anything, it made him more sad. The plush furniture, the art that once spoke to him, the view that had sealed the deal when he bought the place—it all felt distant like it belonged to someone else.

When had his home stopped being a refuge?

“I’m barely ever here,” he said, feeling sadness creep up like an unwelcome virus. “Wine?”

“Yes, please.”

Ethan padded into the kitchen and poured wine into the empty glass, his mind again turning to the dark thoughts he couldn’t shake. He clenched his jaw at the feeling of powerlessness, the fear that no matter how hard he tried, he would always fall short and lose the people he cared about most.

“That’s… probably enough!”

“Huh?” Her exclamation broke through his distraction, and he glanced at the over-filled wine glass. “Oh, sorry.”

He passed the glass over and topped up his own, holding it up with a heavy sigh.

“To the unknown,” he said by way of a toast.

Cassie clinked her glass against his. “To the unknown.”

Ethan watched her as she wandered over to the windows, and an indescribable feeling spread through his chest. For the first time in a while, his apartment didn’t feel quite so empty, and he didn’t feel entirely so alone in his quest.

As he watched Cassie, silhouetted against the city lights, he wondered if maybe, just maybe, he could find a way to hold on—to Naveen, to himself and to the life that was slipping through his fingers.

But for now, all he could do was take it one breath at a time, one step at a time, and hope that somewhere along the way, he’d find the strength to keep going.

III. 2022

Weak sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, and dust motes swirled in the air. Ethan stood in the center of the now-empty living room, hands shoved into the pockets of his jeans. The silence surrounding him wasn’t sad but poignant, marking the end of an era.

Once adorned with carefully chosen artwork, the walls were bare, the furniture that had filled the room now gone, leaving behind a hollow shell of what had once been his sanctuary. Moving boxes were stacked against the wall, waiting for the movers to transport them to their new home.

Cassie was in the bedroom, finishing up with the last of the boxes, but Ethan couldn’t bring himself to join her just yet. Instead, he lingered, taking in the space that had been his home for so many years, a place that had seen him at his lowest and, eventually, at his happiest.

He glanced over at the large windows, where the view of the city and the harbor stretched out before him, just as stunning as it had been the day he first walked in. But it wasn’t the view that held his attention now—it was the memories this place had held.

This was the apartment where he had spent countless sleepless nights, drowning in work, in doubt, in loneliness. It was where he had fought to keep himself together, to push through the pain of losing loved ones, to find answers for patients.

For so long, it had been a place of solitude, where the silence weighed heavily on his shoulders, where he had hidden from the world and from his own fears.

But it was also the place where everything had changed.

He smiled to himself, a small, bittersweet smile, as he remembered the first time Cassie had visited his place to discuss Naveen.

This was where they had shared their first real conversation, where she had seen him at his most vulnerable and hadn’t turned away. It was here that she had shown him that he didn’t have to carry his burdens alone.

And he recalled vividly the night she barged in before her ethics hearing and accused him of being indifferent to her. That night, he’d finally let go of his inhibitions and made love to her without regrets.

This was the apartment where their relationship had blossomed, love gradually replacing the emptiness. It was where he said, “I love you,” the first time to a woman. He had been confident but also afraid of how everything would change with three simple words.

He remembered the night he proposed to her in this living room. She was teaching him to decompress over Chinese takeout and a slapstick comedy on TV. She had been laughing as he cursed at the antics on the screen, and he blurted out, “Marry me,” never more sure of anything in his life.

She said yes, but for a second he’d worried she wouldn’t, and the future he could clearly envision would be a figment of his imagination.

And now, that future was here.

As Cassie emerged from the bedroom, carrying the last box, she caught his eye and smiled, a knowing look that told him she understood exactly what he was feeling. She set the box down by the door and walked over to him, slipping her hand into his.

“Ready?” she asked softly.

Ethan took a deep breath, his gaze sweeping over the apartment one last time. “Yeah,” he said, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. “I’m ready.”

This place had been so much more than just a home; it had been a chapter in his life, one that had shaped him into the man he was now.

But as much as he had loved this place, as much as it had meant to him, Ethan knew it was time to move forward. He had a new home waiting for him, one that he and Cassie would make together.

This might be the end of one chapter, but it was the beginning of something even better.

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

All Fics & Edits: @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @jerzwriter @lady-calypso

@mainstreetreader @peonierose @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16

@justyourusualash @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @youlookappropriate

[openheartfanfics]

Newly Added Fics

Nov 30 - Dec 6, 2024  

🎭 Angst  |  🦚 Angsty Fluff  |  🛸 AU  |  ☁ Fluff  |  ♥ NSFW  |  📚 Series  |  📷 Edit  |  📱 TextFic  |  Ⓜ Mature

Aurora x F!OC

Take and Eat, Dance With Me - @spadesofgrass ☁️🏳️‍🌈

During her five-year med school reunion, Aurora meets up with a face from the past who proposes an all-too-good of a mutual transaction that might just fix everything.

Ethan x F!MC

Everything Has Changed - @potionsprefect 🎭

After the Senator attack, life at Edenbrook Hospital will never be the same.

Proud Parents - @cariantha ☁️

Alan visits Louise at the rehab center a few days after Ethan drops her off. Feat. Alan Ramsey, Louise Ramsey [Domestic; Extended Family]

Rafael x F!MC

Healing, one day at a time. - @rafasgirl23415 📷

Raf updates friends & family on Casey’s surgery after she is out of theatre.

Love In Every Heartbeat - @rafasgirl23415 📚

[extended: wip] Go right to the start of Casey & Raf’s relationship. Casey is cautious about falling too fast too soon.

CH 11: My Home is Where You Are

CH 12: If Tomorrow Never Comes

CH 13: Healing

CH 14: Will He Still Love Me Like This?

_

SUBMIT OPEN HEART FICS & WRITERS HERE

[silver-rings-and-rabbits]

@rafasgirl23415

When Sparks Fly

Matthew was thinking about cake. Specifically a decadent chocolate cake that didn’t look like a cake but a miniature replica of Edenbrook Hospital, complete with Leland Bloom’s renovations. It had been the centrepiece at the reopening gala at the beginning of the year. It had taken Edenbrook by storm; Matthew still thought about it over six months later and Sienna had been researching illusion cakes to try at home. She had recently perfected a sponge cake disguised as a wheel of cheese.

She was going to attempt a purse tonight. Having been down since coming back from Ines’s wedding in Hawai’i two weeks ago, it was the sort of project she needed to focus on.

As Matthew left a patient room and strolled down the corridor, he checked his phone to see a text from her: ‘do you want anything from the store later?’ He replied with ‘can you grab me some cherry cola if they have it?’

He didn’t drink a huge amount of soda, but he felt like treating himself. For all the shiny new tech advances that helped a lot of the procedures, tensions between Bloom and Dr Ramsey had been getting worse, and Matthew was sure Ramsey was losing sight of patient care in his attempts to get one up on Bloom. Judging by Harper and Tobias’s expressions during their morning consult, they seemed to agree with him.

Matthew cheered himself up by remembering the deeply romantic night he’d shared with Rafael in Hawai’i: a moonlit walk on the beach before making love in their hotel room. Matthew had come very close to saying those three words…it would come soon, he knew it…

His attention was caught by a sharp smell that felt distinctly out of place in a hospital. He turned the corner to investigate and, to his horror, found the corridor fast-filling with smoke. He covered his nose and mouth with the collar of his coat as he stumbled to the source, which turned out to be a patient room – mercifully empty – but through his watery, stinging eyes he could see a sparking plug. And then a spark caught the edge of the curtain…

“Crap!” Matthew gasped as the smoke detectors started squealing. He had to get away and make sure the floor evacuated but he couldn’t seem to look away as he watched the flames devour the curtain…and for a second, he was looking down the nozzle of a black cannister…

He snapped, turning and sprinting away from the patient room, falling over his own feet as he did so.

“Fire! Evacuate the area!” he choked out as he scrambled up again. Hopefully the nurses would have started the evacuation process, and then the sprinklers activated, dousing him.

He felt relieved for a second until he heard a loud bang! And everything went black.

One floor below, on the peds ward, Rafael was checking in with a young boy who was on a rehabilitation program following a car accident.

“How are you feeling this afternoon, Mac?” he said. “Are you up for a walk?”

Last week, Raf (assisted by Matthew and Sienna) had put together an impromptu birthday party for Mac and his friends, which had hugely boosted the kid’s spirits. Raf suspected the day with his friends had done much more for Mac’s recovery than being poked with needles and shuffling across balance beams under the watchful eye of some older physical therapists.

He prepared a wheelchair to take Mac to the PT rooms, and as he pushed him along, he noticed Mac was humming to himself and tapping his fingers on the arm of the chair. He had energy today.

Once they got to the PT room, Raf led him through a warm-up, then stepped out into the corridor and indicated for Mac to follow.

“Do you think you can run to the end of the corridor and back?”

“Wait…run?”

“Sure. You’ve been doing great, especially since your birthday party, and you’ve got the energy. I know you can do it.”

Mac looked up at Raf in surprise, but he narrowed his eyes as he looked back down the corridor. Nothing was going to stop him. He took off.

Raf felt a glow of pride in his chest as he watched Mac run. The rehab process was Mac’s best chance but there was always a risk he wouldn’t regain his full mobility. The poor kid had been absolutely crushed, and Raf was determined to help as best he could. Every small success was celebrated, the setbacks were accepted and worked around, and each day Mac got a little stronger and more determined to overcome his injuries. Now the defeated boy Raf had met a few months ago was sprinting towards him with a huge grin.

“I did it!” Mac cried, flushed and out of breath, but happy.

“You sure did! I never had any doubt.” Raf gave Mac a high ten. “Buddy, I’m so proud of you.”

“Really?”

“Of course. You’ve been working so hard with everyone, it really shows—”

But Raf was cut off by the incessant bleep of the smoke detector and they both jumped.

“Is that…?”

“The fire alarm,” Raf confirmed. He knew the procedure: nearby wards evacuated, fire doors would close off the corridors to prevent the spread of flames and minimise disruption to the rest of the hospital. He wondered if Mr Bloom had thought to add any fancy new security measures.

“Don’t panic,” he said, calmly retrieving Mac’s wheelchair. “There’s a fire exit close by.”

Mac nodded nervously as he settled into the chair, but he trusted Rafael, who was kind and patient, and had never raised his voice when Mac struggled with the exercises.

Raf walked steadily to the fire exit where he steered the chair down the ramps to the ground. They were steep, and Mac leaned back in the chair, gripping the arm rests, only relaxing when they reached flat ground…only to be shocked at the scene in front of them.

Medical staff and patients were assembled in the parking lot, some patients were sitting or even lying on the ground. Nurses were already bringing out extra supplies where they could, talking with attendings about who might need to be transferred to another hospital ward. Above it all, smoke and flames poured from a third floor patient room.

“Raf!”

They turned to see Sienna Trinh rushing towards them, but she stopped when she saw Mac.

“Mac, are you alright?”

“Yeah, Raf and I were doing physical therapy when the fire alarm went off. What’s going on? Is the hospital going to burn down?”

“No, of course not,” the grown-ups both said, and Sienna explained how the hospital would block off the affected area until the fire was extinguished.

“We have to evacuate as a precaution, but the fire department is on it’s way. We’re going to be fine.”

“Do we know what caused it?” Raf asked, frowning as he looked up at the fire. The diagnostics office was on the seventh floor but the same side. People were still evacuating. He scanned their faces, searching for Matthew.

“We don’t know yet, but people reported an explosion.”

“Holy crap,” Raf muttered. “Is everyone safe? I mean…no one’s stuck somewhere or anything?”

“Rafael.” Sienna stepped straight in front of him, glaring up at him with surprising fierceness. “Don’t even think about going back in there. Everyone is following evacuation procedures, we’re getting patients out first, and you running back in there is just going to scare everyone!”

“I wasn’t going to!” Raf spluttered, and he wasn’t. Last year’s maitotoxin attack had been the wake-up call he had sorely needed, and he couldn’t bear the idea of putting his parents, grandmother and Matthew through that stress yet again. And yet, he ached with helplessness as he watched people leaving the hospital. He just had to trust that Sienna was right and everyone would be safe…

The Boston Fire Department arrived quickly – two fire engines – and a few people cheered as the firefighters raced inside. Meanwhile, Dr Banerji was outside, assessing the patients and reassigning their rooms. Raf was about to ask him what happened when his phone started ringing in his pocket: Vovó was calling.

“I have to take this,” he muttered to Sienna, stepping away from the madness of the crowd as he answered.

“Vovó, I’m OK,” he said, speaking Portuguese.

“Rafael! Are you alright? I’ve just heard of a fire at the hospital…” she sounded upset and he had to reassure her three more times that he was safe. Not that he could blame her after last year; he had been right not to go back into the hospital.

“What about Matthew and the rest of your friends?” Juliana asked, calming down now. “Are they alright?”

“I think so. The hospital wouldn’t evacuate those not affected,” Rafael said. “They’re fine. We’re all fine, please don’t worry.”

“Of course I worry!” Juliana warned, and Raf chuckled a little. He reassured her – again – that he was OK and he would update her later before saying goodbye and putting his phone back into his pocket. He turned back to look for Dr Banerji when he was distracted by a shriek that sounded too much like Sienna. She was near the doors, her hand over her mouth as she began to cry, bent over someone on a gurney. It was difficult to see who it was as there was a group of nurses rushing around and blocking Raf’s view…until one of them moved and revealed Matthew’s barely conscious face.

Raf froze for a split second, then shot like a dart to his side. He smelled strongly of smoke and there were some visible cuts as well as what looked like scalded skin on his wrist, and an oxygen mask was strapped to his face.

“Matthew?” he gasped. “Can you hear me?” He rested his shaking hand over Matthew’s fingers, hoping for a sign, as Dr Banerji joined them. He looked shocked for a second before smoothing his face over, ever the professional.

“What happened?” he asked the nurse. “What’s the situation?”

“We don’t know for sure, he was found unconscious in a smoke-filled hallway,” one of the nurses explained anxiously. “His breathing is short, but there wasn’t time to check all his vitals. We had to get him out.”

As they spoke, Matthew moaned faintly. His fingers brushed against Raf’s palm and his eyes fluttered open. His gaze seemed slightly unfocused, but he looked towards Raf.

“I’m right here,” Raf reassured him, stroking his hair. “I’m not leaving you, OK?”

“Admit him and get him checked out,” Naveen said. He looked between Raf and Matthew and spoke firmly. “Rafael, you can go with them if you want, but do exactly as the nurses say. If they want you waiting outside, you do that. Understand?”

“I understand,” Raf said gratefully, and he held onto Matthew’s hand, keeping pace with the gurney as Matthew drifted into unconsciousness again.

Later, Rafael and Sienna were sat outside the room where Matthew was being examined when Jackie and Aurora finally found them.

“We got your page but Bryce is in surgery and Elijah can’t leave the lab,” Jackie gasped. “What happened? Matthew was caught in the fire?”

“They’re investigating the cause now,” Sienna sighed. She wasn’t crying anymore but her eyes were still a little red. Aurora sat beside her.

“How did he look when you found him?” She asked carefully. Sienna swallowed.

“He’d been knocked unconscious, and he was all cut. Oh, but I saw him open his eyes a little.”

“Then that sounds promising,” Aurora reasoned. “Matthew’s a fighter.” She rubbed Sienna’s back reassuringly, and Sienna managed a smile.

Meanwhile, Jackie focused on Raf.

“You’re quiet. Are you alright?”

Raf blinked. He’d been a thousand miles away, barely aware of his surroundings since he’d been told to wait outside the room. Now that Jackie was asking, he didn’t know how to articulate the ache in his chest.

“Just…I think I’ve gone numb. I don’t know what to do.”

“There’s nothing you can do,” Jackie said, but her voice was gentle as she put a hand on Raf’s shoulder. “It’s out of your hands. Matthew’s being taken care of, the best thing we can do is wait.”

Raf took a deep breath.

“I know. I’m doing my best. I just…I wish I knew.”

“Yeah. Me too.”

Later still, when the sky was growing dark, Matthew slowly came around in a hospital bed. His head ached, his throat was sore and he felt slightly sick as he took in his surroundings, but he forgot about that when he spotted Raf slumped in a chair with his head in his hands.

“Raf?” he croaked. He coughed weakly and tried again. “Raf? Are you OK?”

Raf jumped and life came back into his eyes as he realised Matthew was awake. He rushed to his side instantly.

“I should be asking you that!” he groaned. “I was so worried about you. How are you feeling? Are you in pain?”

“A little sore,” Matthew sighed as Raf smoothed his hair back. “What happened? I assume I was knocked out at some point…and I think…I remember fire…”

“Yeah,” Raf sighed. He sat on the edge of the bed carefully as he told Matthew what he’d been told. “They discovered some of the wiring had been done badly in that wing of the hospital and it started tripping or something. It was heating up and starting to smoke, then sparks set off the smoke alarms which triggered the sprinklers. Except water is really bad for an electric fire and resulted in a small explosion.

“There was some debris that knocked you unconscious. You’ve got a few cuts and burns and they’re monitoring you for smoke inhalation,” Raf explained. “It might be a day or two before you can leave, but you’re going to be…”

His voice choked up before he could say the word ‘fine’. Because Matthew had come very close to not being fine at all and now Raf couldn’t stop picturing Matthew standing close to the source of the explosion and what might have happened if he had. Tears welled in his eyes.

“Hey.” Matthew carefully reached out and lay a hand on Raf’s arm. “Talk to me. What’s wrong?”

“Sorry,” Raf sniffled, wiping his eyes again. “It’s just…I was so worried when I saw you on the stretcher and you were unconscious…the whole time I was waiting for you to wake up, I kept thinking about what might have happened if things had gone a bit differently. I was terrified you wouldn’t wake up at all. And then I realised…that’s how you’ve been feeling for the last two years!”

He took Matthew’s hand, stroking his thumb along his knuckles. “It’s hell. It’s pure hell. And I’m so sorry I kept putting you through that.”

Matthew didn’t quite know what to say to that as Rafael pulled himself together.

“Raf…you haven’t thrown yourself into danger in at least a year.”

It was the first thing he thought to say, and he wasn’t sure if it was the most reassuring thing to offer, but it surprised a laugh out of Raf and his grip on Matthew’s hand relaxed.

“True. And I’m still sorry it took me so long to see that.” His eyes had that fond softness to them he sometimes got when they were being romantic. But then they grew thoughtful as his smile faded and he gazed at Matthew.

“Actually…there’s something else I wanted to say to you when we were on the beach in Hawai’i. I didn’t because…it’s pretty big and I was afraid of ruining what had so far been a perfect night. But…I could have lost you today and it’s completely unthinkable that you shouldn’t here this. I love you, Matthew.” He spoke with his whole heart and looked Matthew directly in the eyes. “I’ve never loved anyone like this before, and I want you to know that…no matter what.”

Matthew had a completely different reason to be speechless. His heart soared, he forgot all about his pain and his hand trembled ever so slightly as he reached up to cup Raf’s chin.

“I love you too, Raf,” he said, and Raf’s dazzling smile broke out again. In many ways he was the personification of the sun. “So much.”

He brought Rafael’s lips to his, and kissed him soft, sweet and joyous, again and again, until Raf’s arms were wrapped tightly around him. Raf moved his hand up Matthew’s back to cup the back of his head, but he caught the sore spot and Matthew winced.

“Sorry, sorry!” Raf gasped, breaking them apart. “We, uh, probably shouldn’t be doing this. You should be resting and all.”

Matthew didn’t mind either way this time, but he settled back against the pillows and traced his fingers along Raf’s arm invitingly.

“You know…there’s room on this bed for two…”

Raf grinned as he ever-so-gently eased into the small bed space and cuddled into Matthew’s side, wrapping his arms protectively around him. Matthew turned and gave him one more gentle kiss before resting his head on his shoulder and drifting into a peaceful sleep.

[coffeeheartaddict2]

Instant regret

Book: Open Heart (Pre Series)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!OC Estelle Campion, Tobias Carrick

Word count: 2383

Catergory: Angst

Warnings: language, sexual references

Rating Mature end of PG

Summary: It is coming up to the end of Estelle’s third year and she is focused on residency applications. A chat with Ethan does not go well.

Disclaimer: characters (except Estelle) belong to Pixelberry

Authors note: So the most recent Tobias Carrick appreciation week has inspired me to hop into my Time Machine and write some more fics based in their Hopkins days. Some of this will be from Tobias’s perspective so enjoy the ride.

🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃

It was a sunny day in Baltimore. End of year exams were fast approaching, plans for summer being made and for the cohort in their third year of medical school, decisions about where to apply for residency needed to be made. Estelle Campion was yo-yoing between third and fourth of her cohort, the residency world was her oyster. She was drawn to Oncology. There were plenty of hospitals that would help her fulfill her ambition, however there was a very important person she needed to take into consideration. Her boyfriend, Ethan Ramsey. They had only being together officially for six months, by far her most serious relationship but how do you broach the subject of your future when you are not sure where you stand. She knew of the abandonment that he had endured when he was eleven and how that had coloured his attitude towards relationships and how it was the main thing holding him back in starting the relationship that they had but she wanted to start an out future dialogue.

So she took a break from her thoughts and met with the other person who knew Ethan well enough. Tobias Carrick. She had gotten close to both of them and she had found Tobias attractive and his company enjoyable, however she got to know Ethan more as she worked on similar projects with him and found herself more attracted to him. She did enjoy a friendship with Tobias. It was also comforting to have someone talk to about Ethan and his walls.

“Estelle,” greets Tobias as he gives her a hug. “To what do I owe this pleasure?”

“As much as I enjoy your company T, I am wanting to talk with you about Ethan.” Said Estelle.

“What has he done now?” Questions Tobias

Estelle chuckles. “Nothing, well at least not yet…”

“I hear you both you know, it is not just study dates you two do…”

Estelle blushes. “Not what I meant and you know it, and hey I am pretty sure you have learnt plenty from what you overheard.”

“Hey!” Exclaims Tobias somewhat offended. “I already know plenty. Thank you very much, what about Ethan do you want to talk about?”

“How does one broach the our future discussion?”

“Why are you talking to me about this? Shouldn’t you be talking to Ethan?” Asks Tobias.

“Because I do not want to freak him out but also, if he still sees us being well, an us , it will influence where I apply for residency.”

“You know he will say that he should have little to do with such a decision.”

Tobias shakes his head in disbelief. “And he is an obstinate ass for believing that. Being top 5 though, you would get multiple offers though. I know the western seaboard has you well away from your parents, but there are plenty of great programs that are not New York or Connecticut. I mean there are several other options in Boston alone and if Ethan does miss out on Edenbrook you can still transfer.” Said Tobias

“We all know that Ethan will get Edenbrook. You may not be in the throes of application yet but I know he has started and it is impressive.” Stated Estelle, “ I do not want to screw things up between us but I do not want to be deciding which residency without his input.”

“All I can say is be honest, tell him how you feel and for the love of all things holy please do not dance around the obvious for too long.”

Estelle chuckles. “He is cooking me dinner tonight so I will open a dialogue tonight.”

“Ahh yes, “cooking dinner” says Tobias. “Good luck and don’t worry I will not be home to interrupt what I am sure will be a pleasant evening.” Said Tobias smugly. They enjoyed their meal and went their separate ways. Estelle was buoyed by her chat. Be honest, how hard can that be? She thought to herself. She went home and did some study then got ready for her date night with Ethan. She knew that they were to have a serious discussion but she still picked one of her new lingerie sets, after all, if all went to plan, well they would be fucking each other senseless afterwards. It had been a busy few weeks for both of them after all.

She made her way to Ethan’s unit. She knocked on the door and he called out to enter. He was already in the kitchen, very much in his element. It was a pasta dish that he was cooking and it looked and smelt delicious. They sat and they ate. After a glass of wine and some kissing she felt that she should not delay the inevitable chat anymore.

How much of a future do you see for us?” Ethan was perplexed initially but he knew that Estelle would be applying for residency and that assauged his surprise.

“Is this because you want to know where you should apply for residency?” Asked Ethan

“Partially, residency is a big deal and if you still see us being an us, we’ll that will impact where I apply.

“And why should I be a consideration. If the best opportunity for you is on the west coast then we will sort something out.”

Estelle was shocked. She knew this would be an Ethan response but it was still a shock, it was not like she was putting her career on hold.

“Do you even care about us Ethan?”

“Stelle, in all honesty, I thought we would be talking residencies when you got accepted, not before you even started applying.” He took a breath

“And yes I do care about us but you also need to know that you also need to do what is best for you career wise.”

“Life is not all about career Ethan.”

“It is a big chunk of our lives though”

Estelle is starting to feel hurt.

“Is care all you feel?”

Ethan paused, things were going well, so he thought. He really did like Estelle but for him,6 months was too soon surely.

“Do I really like you? I thought the answer to that was obvious but beyond that, we have only been together for six months…”

“What are you that afraid to fall in love Ethan!” Exclaims Estelle

Ethan pinches the bridge of his nose.

“Stelle, you know me entering a relationship is a big deal. A relationship, hell even the friendship I have with Tobias was not something I foresaw.”

“E, I know that I am your first serious relationship, hell even this relationship is serious by my standards but I need to know, do you see a future for us?”

Ethan took a deep breath and gathered his thoughts.

“I don’t know how to answer that question honestly. I understand why you are wanting to know this, however asking me to even guess where we will be, I am having trouble imagining that…”

“So you don’t see a future for us, is that what you are saying?”

“I did not say that….”

“Yeah that is what it sounded like!” Said Estelle crying. She picks up her bag and makes her way to the door.

“Stelle, please, can we talk about this?” Calls Ethan, following her towards the door but he is not quick enough and she walks out the door and slams it in his face.

Ethan is confused and upset. Tonight was not meant to end like it had, he decides to

Let Estelle cool off and call her tomorrow.

He sits down, dejected and angry at himself and trying to figure out what he did actually feel. He knew the answers were not what Estelle wanted to hear but surely she should have preferred him to be honest now instead of being proved wrong this time next year. He found the bourbon stash as he needed something stronger.

Meanwhile Estelle was a mess. She knew he had a wall and she had suspected that she had been enabling Ethan by letting him behind that wall but hearing he had not thought about a future that included her, letting her make what she thought was a decision that needed input from him. He did not explicitly state it was over but it sure felt like that and a fresh set of angry and sad tears flowed. She had no idea how long she had been wandering aimlessly but she was shocked when she happened upon Tobias. Tobias was also shocked to see her. He could see she was upset.

What happened?” Asked Tobias

“Ethan and I had a fight, he does not see a future for us.” More tears fall, Tobias is torn, he wants to be there for Estelle but also wants to see Ethan. Estelle then cuddles into Tobias. “I really love him” she says in between sobs, “how can he treat me like this?”

“Did you tell him you love him?” Asked Tobias.

“I did not get that far. He has not thought about us, it really hurt Tobias.”

Tobias offers to get Estelle home. Estelle decides she needs a drink while they are on the way and they stop off at the bar. They have a few drinks, talk about the fight, talk about school. They both drink more than they should have, and as such their inhibitions were lowered. The thoughts that Estelle thought she had long buried about Tobias came to the fore. With the courage that the alcohol offered, Estelle kisses Tobias. Tobias is shocked. He found her attractive but it was clear to him that she had eyes for Ethan, so he thought.

“Me and Ethan are over T” she whispers before kissing him again. Tobias decides that they should go. As much as he knew he should leave, he did want to make sure that Estelle got home safely. They make their way to Estelle’s where she kisses him again. This time Tobias ignores the voice in his head telling him to stop.

They enter the unit and make their way to her bedroom. Again the voice in his head told him he needed to stop but he again ignored it. The kisses get hungrier and they disrobe. As soon as Estelle unbuckles his belt she is down on her knees. He was taken aback by her prowess and as the night went on, he was surprised again. He could not deny that the sex was great, even Estelle was satisfied multiple times but the regret set in right away.

He discretely got up from the bed and found his clothes. He left her a note stating that he had gone home and he embarked on the walk of shame.

He arrived at the unit he shared with Ethan. A part of him hoped that Ethan would be in bed but he was not. He could tell his friend was upset and that he had been drinking.

Are you upset about you and Estelle breaking up?”

Ethan looks at Tobias, his look of sadness changing to anger. In that moment Tobias just knew he had been lied too.

“We had a fight, yes but I did not end it, she was very upset that I had trouble seeing a future and I suppose she took that as me ending it but she stormed out before I could discuss it further.”

Tobias took a breath. He knew this conversation was going to hurt his friend but he decided he was going to be honest. He took the bottle on the table and poured himself a drink before continuing.

“Well, Stelle is spinning a different story, she told me you were over, I am sorry”

Tobias could see hurt and Anger in Ethan’s eyes.

“Sorry for what Tobias, what is going on?”

Tobias decides to continue to tell the truth.

“I bumped into Estelle, she told me about the fight. She was pretty upset so I wanted to make sure she got home safely, anyway we stop off at a bar and had quite a few drinks and she kissed me. She assured me you were over and kissed me again…”

“Did anything else happen?” Asked Ethan, through gritted teeth.

“I had sex with Estelle.” Said Tobias. “If I had known she was lying I wouldn’t have. She told me that you were over.”

“And you believed her?” Said Ethan, angrily.

“What was I to think? She was crying and wandering aimlessly and very upset when our paths crossed.”

“You could have thought with your head and not with your cock for starters.”

“I did not plan it, it just happened.”

“Well you could have said no.”

“If we had not detoured that probably would have happened.”

“So what, were you waiting for me to screw up before you had your way with her? Or were you…”

“I am going to stop you right there Ethan. Yes when I first met Estelle I did find her attractive but she only had eyes for you.”

Ethan is furious. Furious at himself, at Tobias and also Estelle.

“I can not believe that you, my supposed best friend, slept with my girlfriend.”

“Which part of she said you had broken up are you not getting?”

“That does not matter, you still fucked her! And more importantly, fucked her right after she thought that we were over!”

Ethan storms out, feeling more hurt then what he did when his mum walked out when he was eleven.

Tobias wants to go after his friend but he knew that neither were in a state to discuss this maturely. He was angry at himself for ignoring the voice that said stop and mad at himself for betraying the trust that he knew Ethan did not give freely. He knew it was going to be hard coming back from this but Ethan was the brother he wished he had and he would do anything to try and keep this relationship. He calls Estelle and he is also angry at her. Angry for giving up on Ethan, angry for wanting another man in her bed so soon and angry that she lied to him.

After hanging up with Estelle he went to bed, hoping to clear his head before Ethan came back.

——-

Authors note: that awkward moment where you have already done large amounts of dialogue in the events of this night in part 2 of the medical school series which is found here. I have added some little extra bits. The next part will have some more parts lifted my series again with more added as I did want to do more from the perspective of Tobias and I also wanted to showcase a bit more the friendship that Estelle had with Tobias and how that was also ruined too.

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