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lucy-268 · 3 years ago

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Birthday Surprise

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Lilac Allende

Characters: Marchia Bisognin; Natalie Cusack; Jillian Valentine; Genevieve McClure; Casey MacTavish; Cassie Valentine; Charley Valentine; Victoria Clarke; and Brooke Spiers

Ratings: T

Warnings: None

Word Count: 3,160

Author’s Notes: Bree, we love you and want to wish you a Very Happy Birthday. This was a joint effort between: @a-crepusculo; @bex-la-get; @danijimenezv; @genevievemd; @jerzwriter; @liaromancewriter; @lucy-268; @potionsprefect; and @writer-ish

Birthday Surprise

Prologue

Dr. Ethan Ramsey had many talents; planning a birthday party for his partner, Dr. Lilac Allende wasn’t one of them. As much as it would hurt his ego to ask for help, she was more important. So, he found himself seeking assistance from the unlikeliest of sources: Dr. Casey MacTavish who was a close friend of Lilac’s and his teammate, Dr. Tobias Carrick’s girlfriend.

Casey, of course, took over and the idea of a simple birthday dinner snowballed into a surprise birthday party on the eve of the medical conference that Lilac was speaking at close to home. Before Ethan knew it, Casey and a flock of eight other women, all esteemed doctors from around the country that would be in town for the conference, took over the celebration.

Ethan had certainly heard Lilac mention them all before; apparently, they were all founding members of Future Women Leaders in Medicine, so they couldn’t really be bad, he thought. Right?

The ecstatic expression on Lilac’s face when she saw them after walking into the restaurant where the party was being held had certainly allayed his concerns. But the way they shared secret smiles with each other and spoke in code, told him that it was going to be an interesting night.

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Charley Valentine was having a conversation with Casey when she noticed that Genevieve had stopped talking and was smiling towards the doorway. Charley turned her head to see what, or rather, who had caught the other doctor’s attention.

She smiled and grabbed a glass of champagne and headed towards the door. Lilac was standing just in the doorway next to Dr. Ethan Ramsey, who was looking just a little bit satisfied that he had managed to keep this a surprise from Lilac.

Charley hugged her friend. Lilac hugged her back and pulled her to the side. “Except for Casey, you all said that you weren’t able to get away!”

Charley laughed. “We wouldn’t miss the chance to see your speech tomorrow! It was so convenient that it fell right in line with your birthday!”

Charley handed her the champagne and turned to Ethan. “Sorry, I didn’t pass any Scotch on my way over.”

Charley led Lilac away from Ethan and towards the other eight women who were all smiles and laughter.

One of them called out, “You didn’t think we’d miss this, did you?”

Charley tapped her glass.

“Now that we are all here, I’d like to propose a toast to Lilac. Youngest Director of Diagnostics at Edenbrook. First one of us to be asked to present the keynote speech at a major conference. I’ve been in awe of you ever since I read about how you stood up to big pharma in your intern year, and I’ve loved sharing ideas with you for the past few years in FWLM. Thank you for all you do.”

Lilac hugged her and Charley looked around. “Who’s next?”

Silence permeated as the group of intelligent, fearless women, all masters in their field, looked at each other awkwardly and then — horrors — even giggled slightly. Apparently none were immune to the possibility of a little bit of stage fright.

“Oh, for Pete’s—” A tall redhead looked up from her phone and shook her strawberry waves. “Guess it has to be me, then, amiright ladies?”

Lilac caught eyes with Dr. Brooke Spiers, colleague and friend, and bit her lip as she held back a smirk, accompanied by a mock-disparaging headshake.

“Didn’t think you’d ever be one to say no to being the center of attention,” she called out as Brooke strode to the front of the group, wobbling only slightly in her heels.

Ethan, who agreed with his girlfriend’s assessment of the...outspoken Dr. Spiers, only snorted.

“You know me,” Brooke responded with a wink, holding her champagne glass high. “This is to Lilac. My first friend at Edenbrook during that tumultuous intern year—”

“—Yeah, until you ditched me to fast track to your cardiology fellowship—”

“—I said first friend, not last or only; god you’re a needy bitch.” Brooke paused as the room laughed at her snarky candor, Lilac the loudest of them all. “Also, I don’t think the words ‘fast track’ and ‘cardiology fellowship’ have ever been used in the same sentence, but thanks for the vote of confidence, babe.”

“Anyway,” she looked pointedly at Lilac, “what I was saying was, there is no greater gift in my mind than being able to toast this ultimate gem of a woman. The best and brightest in your field, the better half of one of the greatest medical partnerships known to man—”

Ethan rolled his eyes but, as he couldn’t dispute Brooke’s assessment, he simply pulled Dr. Allende closer instead.

“—and the most loyal and amazing person I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing.” Brooke smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with mirth and affection. “Love you, girl. Thanks for all you’ve taught me and all you continue to do to have my back. To have all our backs.”

She raised her glass up in the air. “To Lilac!”

“To Lilac!” the room echoed, a unanimous affirmation of Brooke’s words, as the toastmaster in question downed her glass of champagne in one gulp, the other arm wrapped around Lilac, who had come in for a quick, grateful embrace.

“Alright!” Brooke turned to the group as she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, one arm still around Dr. Allende’s shoulders. “Next?”

“Eh-hrm,” a young woman with cascading, blonde hair caught everyone’s attention as she got up from her seat and sauntered to the front, taking her place where Brooke had stood previously. “I have a few words for our dear friend Lilac.”

An impish smile on Lilac’s lips grew wider while she gazed affectionately at her fellow friend, Dr. Marchia Bisognin.

“That’s my girl!” the birthday girl exclaimed loudly, hands clapping, unable to contain the tender pride expanding in her chest. Three years ago, Marchia wouldn’t even be able to stand in front of two people, let alone a small crowd. Yet, now, she found confidence, poise in herself—all thanks to Lilac.

“When I met you at that World Health Summit, I knew you were bound to get me into some trouble, babe,” Marchia shrugged, words laced with a hint of amusement, allowing a sheepish grin to spread across her face. “And I bet you’re going to get us into some shenanigans, too, tonight!”

A tide of uproarious laughter escaped the flock of beautiful women once again.

“But all of us wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you, my dear,” she continued, a warm smile trembling to be released. “So, let me raise a toast to one of the most inspiring, brilliant, and thoughtful individuals I have ever known, Lilac Valentina Allende.”

Everyone cheered as Marchia raised her own glass, glittering under the golden light.

“May your life be filled with love, happiness, and of course,” she paused for a moment, a mischievous gleam evident in her eyes. “Lots of incredible, mind-blowing sex, because Lord knows you’re insatiable, babe.”

Lilac laughed out loud, while her handsome companion—the ever-stoic Dr. Ethan Ramsey—tried to hide the flush spreading across his cheeks that threatened to embarrass him.

Marchia approached the brunette doctor, lips curved into a beaming smile. Bodies crashing in an overjoyed hug, she leaned into her and added, “We all love you, babe.”

“Alright, who wants to go next?” Marchia asked, looking back at her friends and associates.

“Now that I’ve had a drink and I’ve loosened up a bit, I will.” Victoria stepped forward as everyone chuckled.

“This could take a while.” Lilac muttered.

“I’ve kept it short and sweet,” she quipped. “The first time I met Lilac, I nearly didn’t make it to the conference as my alarm didn't go off. I was running super late and only made it when someone held the door open for me to get into the lecture hall. It’s fair to say Lilac found it amusing which is why we sat next to each other and since then it’s been nothing but laughter and smiles.”

“You are the funniest and nicest person I’ve ever met and I’m so glad I am able to call you my friend. I can’t wait to move to Boston next year with Ben and I’m so excited that we’ll be in the same city. And Ethan, if you ever hurt her, just know that you’ll have to deal with all of us. Cheers!” Victoria raised her glass smiling.

“Wow, that really was short and sweet.” Lilac laughed.

“I don’t make promises I can’t keep.” Victoria laughed. “Who’s next because I really want to get started on that buffet.”

“I’ll go,” said a young woman with bright red hair.

Natalie stood up, grabbing a nearby glass of champagne as she began her speech.

“First of all, happy birthday, Lilac. I hope this one, followed by every one after, is memorable and full of happiness! I’m so lucky to be surrounded by some of the most incredible women I’ve ever met. And, while I already knew Gen, Casey, and Charley from school, I never would have met everyone else if it hadn’t been for Lilac bringing us all together.”

“Lil, you light up every room you walk into and you’re the most badass bitch to ever walk this earth.” Natalie raised her glass towards the birthday girl. “I’m so proud of you and I’m so grateful to call you my friend. Happy birthday, babe. To Lilac!”

Everyone else followed suit, echoing her sentiments with their glasses raised in Lilac’s direction.

“All right, who’s next?” said Natalie.

“I’ll go!” Another blonde stepped forward, holding her glass high in the air.

“My dear friend, it’s truly been an honor to know you and watch you become the amazing doctor you are. I remember the first day we met, when Patrick introduced us when I went to visit him at UCLA. He said ‘I know you two will get along great’. Which I admit, I wasn’t completely convinced, because you were so outgoing and confident. I was the opposite. But, he was right. A shock, to us both I’m sure. Because when is he ever right?”

Genevieve giggled, causing Lilac to laugh as well. A knowing smile on both their faces.

“And I’m glad he was. Because knowing you has changed my life for the better. You’ve taught me so much, inspired me with your bravery and strength to never give up. And I thank you for that. So today of all days, I am so happy to celebrate you, Lilac Allende. Happy birthday!”

Gen tilted her glass towards her friend, smiling brightly.

“Okay who wants to go next? Because if I keep talking I’ll start crying.”

Dr. Cassie Valentine was too busy flirting with her fiance, Jackson, to notice her friends looking at her with amusement. If it hadn't been for Brooke loudly clearing her throat behind her and Casey tapping her feet to capture her attention, Cassie would have missed the entire point of the evening.

Glancing sheepishly at everyone, she stepped up to join her friends near the front of the room, grabbing a glass of champagne on the way.

"When my fellow Hopkins alum Vic first told me about Lilac and how she'd make a great co-chair for the Future Women Leaders in Medicine initiative, I was skeptical," she said, shrugging her shoulders.

"Sure, I'd heard about her exploits as an intern and her appointment to lead the famous Edenbrook Diagnostics team. But internal medicine always thinks they understand the human body better than psychiatry does the mind, so I kept my counsel. However, one meeting was all it took for me to realize that she is everything that people said she was, and a whole lot more than they can even fathom."

"She would be perfect," said Cassie with a laugh, "if only she'd realize that running actually is good for you rather than complaining endlessly about it. I love her anyway and couldn't ask for a better co-chair. To Lilac and defying expectations, one giant step at a time. Happy birthday, babe!"

With that, Cassie raised her glass in a salute and smiled at the woman whose lifelong friendship she’d treasure forever.

“Jill, Casey?” she asked, glancing at the two women left. “Which one of you wants to go next?”

“I’ll go.” Jill grinned radiantly and walked confidently to the front.

“Jesus Christ,” Ethan muttered under his breath. Jill was like the little sister he never wanted, so he could only dread the kind of speech she had prepared.

Jillian ran a hand through her ginger bronze hair as she joined the group of women, took a deep breath and faced the crowd with grace.

“When I came to visit Ethan all those years ago, the last thing I expected was to see him completely enraptured by an intern. I had known Ethan for years, and the Dr. Ramsey I saw was nothing like the one I knew. It was like I was staring at the best version of his grumpy self. Because that’s what Lilac did to him, she brought out his best. They weren’t together then, but I clearly remember thinking, ‘I have to get to know her’. Of course, Ethan being Ethan tried to prevent it, but he should’ve known most of the time I get away with what I want.”

That earned a few half-hearted laughs among the crowd. Even Ethan’s lips were slightly curled upwards, “I hate you.”

Jill smirked, but refrained herself from teasing Ethan further. This was for Lilac. She shook her head softly and focused once again on her speech for her friend.

“The moment I met Lilac, everything just clicked in my mind, it all made sense; I understood why my brother’s best friend was so floored by her, and honestly, so was I. With her quick wit and undenying charm, Lilac has a warm aura that just pulls you in, whether you’re a patient, a colleague, or a stranger; she has a way to make everyone feel cared for. Along with her brilliant mind, she has a heart of gold.”

“It’s been an honor getting to know her professionally, but even more personally, and I feel so grateful for her,” the ginger-haired doctor sent her a dazzling smile, “Lil, my darling, you’re one of the best things to ever happen to all of us. You made us a family, one that I would never change for anything in this world. Without you, I wouldn’t have met these wonderful ladies, and none of us would be the women we are today. You’re an inspiration to all of us.”

“So, on this day, I want to toast to you, to celebrate all that you are, in all your wonderful glory. Here’s to Lilac Allende, the most brilliant and promising doctor her age, and the best friend a girl could ask for. I hope we get to celebrate by your side many years to come. I love you, Lil. Happy birthday,” Jill raised her flute and took a demure sip.

“Jill, amiga!” Lilac pushed through and gave her a huge hug, the gesture speaking enough for both of them.

“That wasn’t so bad,” Ethan looked relieved.

“Figured I would save the humiliation for your birthday,” Jill winked at him, causing him to scoff. “Besides, this is for Lilac, not for you. Wait for your turn, old man.”

“Hilarious,” he rolled his eyes.

“Don’t call victory yet,” Jill whispered, pointing covertly to the last blonde. “Casey still can. And you know she’s the… wildest of us.”

Liliac stretched her neck to survey the room, she raised an eyebrow and smirked when she caught Casey, giggling at something (likely inappropriate) her boyfriend Tobias was whispering in her ear.

“OK, MacTavish, can you save that mierda for later and get on with honoring me?” Liliac winked, “Some of us want to get to drinking and dancing, girl.”

Embarrassed, Casey jumped up from her seat, straightening her dress as she made her way to the front of the room.

“Hey, they were just saving the best for last,” Tobias heckled.

“Oh, Jesus, she’s not going to let him speak, is she?” Ethan grumbled.

Both women looked at their partners and all laughed when they playfully chided “Shut up!” at the same time.

Casey looked at Lilac and smiled, “We’ve gotta keep them in line!”

Lilac raised her glass and smiled, “You know it!” she said before downing her glass.

“Hey, wait! We didn’t finish the toast yet!” Gen called out, a half-filled champagne glass in her hand.

“She’s the birthday girl, she can do whatever she pleases,” Casey winked, “but, uhm, waiter, can we get a refill over here… for her? Thanks.”

“Anyway, I met Lilac poolside, during a conference in Key Biscayne our last year of med school,” continued Casey. “I remember thinking, who is this woman trying to one up me in that hot red bathing suit she had going on? But I didn’t actually meet her until we both made our way up to the bar to get one of the Penicillin cocktails they had lined up…”

She shrugged. “Hey neither of us named it… we thought it was tacky too.”

“Back to the story, some obnoxious man saw us approaching and he ran over and grabbed one of the two remaining drinks just before we arrived. We stared at each other, torn between our good-girl sides that were telling us to be polite, and our ‘I’m a broke med school student here for the free booze’ sides that really wanted to fight the other for the drink. Fortunately, a very handsome bartender named…”

“Miguel!” Lilac yelled.

“That’s right!” Casey laughed. “Miguel came up and said ‘Don’t worry ladies, there’s more where that came from.’ He placed a tray before us and walked off. Lilac and I looked at each other and, at the exact same time, said, ‘You take the drink, I’m going to get him’.”

All the women hollered at the punch line.

“That’s right!” Lilac laughed.

“Well, who won?” yelled Tobias as Ethan covered his face with a groan.

“That’s not the point,” Casey smiled.

“Ah, that means Lilac won,” Tobias winked.

“Oh, Jesus, Christ…” Ethan sighed.

“It’s OK, babe, it was a long time ago,” said Lilac, patting his knee.

“Be that as it may,” interrupted Casey, “That was the day I knew I met an exceptional woman. Someone who knew when to be serious, knew when to have fun, someone who knew right from wrong and was going to fight like hell to make this world of medicine, the world itself, a better place.”

Casey raised her glass.

“Since then I have been proud to call her a colleague, but it is an even bigger honor to call her a friend. So, ladies and gentlemen, if you would please raise your glasses to the woman, the doctor, the legend… Lilac.”

We want to wish you a very happy birthday, Bree!! @jamespotterthefirst @messrprongs

@choicesficwriterscreations; @openheartfanfics

#birthday fic #open heart #ethan ramsey x f!mc #ethan and lilac #marchia bisognin #natalie cusack #jillian valentine #genevieve mcclure #casey mactavish #cassie valentine #charley valentine #victoria clarke #brooke spiers

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moodmusicmonday · 3 years ago

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Luck of the Draw MASTERLIST

In March 2022, creators were invited to participate in @moodmusicmonday's first ever Luck of the Draw! To join the event, each person submitted a song. Once collected, each song was then drawn at random and distributed amongst our participants. The goal: be inspired by the music and create something for the Fandom!

We knew this fandom was talented, but Wow! Take a look at what was created! Works are alphabetized by creator's username.

~🍀~

⛔ Please by advised by all trigger warnings. Some stories are not suitable for younger viewers. By continuing to interact with this blog, you agree to abide by all warnings, including cessation of viewership when told to do so.

📖 Fic

🎨 Moodboard

🎬 Media

@ao719 📖

This Isn't How It Was Supposed To Be

"My Love" - Sia

TRR; Liam x Riley

Song submitted by @twinkleallnight

@appiomofchoice 📖

Payback

"Good Kisser" - Lake Street Drive"

OPH; Bryce Lahela x f!MC

Song submitted by @lilyoffandoms

@arjaywrites-deactivated20220329 📖

The Rough Patch

"sugar ray" - pizzagirl

OPH; Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Dana Pearce)

Song submitted by @dcbbw

@aussiegurl1234 📖

"The Very First Night" - Taylor Swift

TRR AU; surprise pairing

Song submitted by @peonyblossom

@dcbbw 📖

The Year of Our Lord

"1950" - King Princess

An original piece

Song submitted by @queenrileyrose

@jerzwriter 📖

Like Never Before

"Like I've Never Been in Love" - Hailey Mae Campbell

OPH; Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Casey MacTavish)

Song submitted by @rookiemartin

@kat-tia801 📖

To Fix the Pain

"Doctor Doctor" - Oh Pep!

OPH; Ethan Ramsey x MC (Brynn Cooper)

Song submitted by @appiomofchoice

@lilyoffandoms 📖

"love & hate" - Camylio

TRR; Liam x Riley, Drake x Riley

Song submitted by @ao719

@lucy-268 📖

"Never Sorry" - Jeremy Renner

OPH; Bryce Lahela x f!OC (Maggie Layne)

Song submitted by @aussiegurl1234

@nestledonthaveone 📖

Heartbroken

"Best Days" - Graham Colton

TRR; Drake Walker x OC (Evie)

Song submitted by @kat-tia801

@peonierose 📖

By a Landslide

Landslide" - Fleetwood Mac

OPH; Bryce Lahela x f!OC (Luna Auclair)

Song submitted by @lucy-268

@peonyblossom 🎨

"Instant Crush" - Daft Punk ft. Julian Casablancas

AME; Carson Stewart x MC (JJ DuBois)

Song submitted by @arjaywrites-deactivated20220329

@queenrileyrose 📖

Would've Gave It All

"Alone" - I Prevail

TRR/RoE; Leo Rys x ?

Song submitted by @txemrn

@rookiemartin 🎨

"Nancy Mulligan" - Ed Sheeran

OPH; Ethan x Marsey

Song submitted by @peonierose

@socalwriterbee 📖

In the End

"Moral of the Story" - Ashe ft. Niall Horan

OPH; Ethan Ramsey x MC (Tessa Martinez)

Song submitted by @jerzwriter

@txemrn 📖

"Ballroom Blitz" - Sweet

TRR; no particular pairing

Song submitted by @nestledonthaveone

@twinkleallnight 🎬 (1 of 2 submissions)

"You're Going to Live Forever in Me" - John Mayer

TRR; Drake x MC; Liam x MC

Song submitted by @erinphoria

@twinkleallnight 🎬 (2 of 2 submissions)

"10,000 Hours" - Dan + Shay ft. Justin Bieber

TRR; Liam x MC; Maxwell x MC; Drake x MC

Song submitted by @socalwriterbee

~🍀~

#mood music monday #luck of the draw #luck of the draw challenge #choices fanfiction #choices fanart #open heart #the royal romance #america's most eligible #choices fanfic #choices mood music monday #music inspo #choices fanfic music insp #choices music inspo #choices mmm #moodmusicmonday

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choicesjuly2023challenge · 3 years ago

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Week 1 Masterlist

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#choicesjuly2022challenge #choices july 22 week 1 #masterlist #week 1 masterlist #desire and decorum #open heart #red carpet diaries

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jerzwriter · 3 years ago

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Thanks Kate! Of course I am confusing people, but I need to finish this out. lol

Wedding Wednesday: Week 26

Welcome back to another week! This is a cute one I think

What was your MC and LI’s engagement photos and/or engagement announcement?

Did they send out an announcement?

Did they have a engagement photoshoot?

What did they look like?

Here’s a few templates I put together for you to use!

Have fun!

#wedding wednesday reblog #ethan ramsey x casey mactavish

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jerzwriter · 2 years ago

Note

Just curious, is there a reason why you choose Casey and/or the T/C world whenever you write about the roomies, your MC's past or anything else besides MCxLI ?

Hey Nonny,

It's not always. I do have some Kaycee out there. But I do tend to go with Casey. Here's why:

Casey's my original OH MC; she's the most developed MC I have. I understand her best, and I find it easiest/most enjoyable to create for her.

Casey and Kaycee's pasts are supposed to be the same, so they're technically interchangeable, but it would be odd to post two of the same fics with different names.

As you can probably imagine, it's difficult to create two similar/yet different OH MCs. When I write for Kaycee, I try to get into a completely different mindset, and it's not always easy to do.

All of this has impacted how I write. I'm going to continue writing for Ethan/Kaycee. In fact, I have some cool stuff coming up this weekend. But I've also introduced my F!OC, Eva Mendoza, in my T/C world as an LI for Ethan. I may concentrate on that more in the future because it is awfully challenging to have two separate worlds. Again, that's not saying I won't do E/K, I have to see where it all lands.

Thanks for asking, Nonny!

#open heart #casey mactavish #kaycee macclennan #ethan ramsey x mc #asks answered

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jerzwriter · 2 years ago

Note

How did your OH pairings handle MC studying for their boards? Was the LI helpful with studying, careful to give them space, or struggling with how much time MC had to dedicate to studying?

Hey there! Thank you so much for the ask, and I apologize for how long it took to answer. With two pairings in OH land, I had to think about the personalities of each person and how they would gel during this time.

In my Ethan and Kaycee HC, they weren't a "secret" during this timeframe, but they were attempting to keep their relationship on a need-to-know basis. Whereas Tobias & Casey were officially official - and the whole world knew - about four months after the chemical attack. While both MCs and their partners would have handled it similarly, there would be subtle differences based on this and their differing personalities.

Similarities? Both MCs are fortunate to be with doctors, doctors who take their own jobs very seriously, value their partner's professional development, and understand the demands placed on them. Neither man would feel ignored or neglected. They would do all they could to help support them.

Kaycee would end up spending 50% of her time at her apartment, where she could cram with her roomies, and 50% at Ethan's, where it's quiet and she has one of the best doctors of his generation available as a study partner. He take care of things like cooking/laundry to afford her more time, and he'd quiz her and offer pointers. Most of the time, that would work great, but occasionally she'd be overtired and need a break. He could be a hardass in the quizzing area, and this could lead to arguments. But they'd be quickly resolved. After she takes her books and moves to another room, he'd realize he needs to back off. After a 30 min cooling-off period, he'd show up with coffee and a neck rub, and all would be forgiven.

Casey would be spending the bulk of her time at Tobias's. I have to revisit the timeline, but if they're not officially living together by this point, they are quasi-living together because she rarely goes back to her place. He has a big ol' townhouse, so I think there would be many days where she'd invite the roomies and other residents she's friends w/ over for study sessions, and when she's alone, Tobias would be similar to Ethan... taking care of the necessities so she can focus where she needs to, helping her study whenever she wants. But I think Tobias would be the type to tell her, "OK, books away for a while, you need to get out/get sleep/get laid (lol I mean, it's Tobias and Casey) for a bit." This would be helpful because sometimes you do need a short break.

Thanks so much for asking - and if you have not been reverse Uno-ed yet, I need to reverse Uno you!

#ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x mc #kaycee macclennan #tobias carrick #tobias carrick x mc #casey mactavish #studying #the boards #asks answered

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jerzwriter · 3 months ago

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Thank you to @snoopdogcone for this prompt for @choicesprompts Angstgiving event. The prompt is highlighted in the text below.

Book: Open Heart (Book 2) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Casey MacTavish (F!MC) Rating: Teen Words: 3,363 Summary: Ethan's back from his mission in the Amazon rainforest, and it's time to face the wreckage he left behind.

A/N: Please note, this story is not part of my Ethan x Kaycee headcanon; it's part of my Casey MacTavish world where they are not end game.

@choicesmonthlychallengenov2024 - apology, regret

Casey was laser-focused on her task as she meandered through the packed maze of tables in Donahue’s beer garden. Nothing was going to come between her and her friends celebrating tonight’s victory properly, and securing a table was part of that goal. The place was packed, abuzz with the vibrant energy that seemed to define Boston during the final days of summer when the warm nights carried just a hint of the autumn breeze that would soon usher star-filled nights like this away. It seemed everyone had the same idea as they tried to soak in every last minute.

In the midst of clinking glasses, laughter, and the hum of dozens of conversations, Casey finally claimed victory. She flashed a bright smile when she spotted an empty table, waving furiously at her friends to join her. “Hurry up!! Hurry!” she beamed. “It’s almost time!”

Everyone quickly assembled, slipping onto the benches with their drinks in hand; the excitement was palpable. “Should we do a countdown first?” Elijah asked.

“Too late for that!” Casey replied. “It’s midnight!!”

“Yeah! We made it!” Elijah howled with a raised glass. “Intern year is officially over!”

“And I say good freaking riddance!” Jackie chimed in. “We made it, and we did it with our medical licenses intact to boot!”

“Jackie!” Sienna frowned. “Don’t even joke about that! I was so scared Casey was going to have to leave Edenbrook! That’s one part of the intern year I want to forget!”

“I wouldn’t mind forgetting that part either,” Casey agreed. “But despite the low moments, I’ll still look back fondly on this year. After all, it’s when I met all of you!”

“Awww,” Sienna smiled, giving her friend a quick squeeze.

But Jackie wasn’t as moved. “How many of those have you had?” She laughed, motioning toward Casey’s empty glass.

Casey affectionately embraced her mortified friend. “Just enough to spill my emotions all over this table!”

Bryce arrived at the table and claimed the seat next to Casey, wrapping his arm around her waist as soon as he placed a fresh round of drinks on the table. “Well, it that’s where you are now, I’ll have you dancing when you finish this one.”

“As if getting me to dance is a struggle!” Casey chuckled. “But this is my last drink. I have a big day ahead!”

“Sure, rub it in!” Jackie smirked. “Now I can admit that part of me was hoping you’d lose your license because I would have swooped right in and taken your spot on the diagnostic team!”

“Not if I got to it first,” Elijah laughed, but his bright smile faltered when he glanced over Casey’s shoulder. “Speaking of the diagnostic team...” He nodded toward the entrance, and everyone’s heads turned.

Sienna looked like she saw a ghost. “Oh my gosh! He’s back!”

While her response may have been a bit dramatic for Sienna, it didn’t begin to express the turmoil stirring in Casey. The average person wouldn’t have noticed; she did her best to remain composed even as her body went rigid and her heart pounded in her chest. After two long months of absence, Ethan Ramsey was back, walking toward them like it was any other day, as if he hadn’t ripped Casey’s heart out just months before.

“He looks... different,” Sienna observed.

“Well, two months fighting an outbreak in the Amazon will do that to a person,” Jackie replied. Her eyes flickered in his direction, attempting to warn Casey that he was near.

But it was too late. He was already standing beside her, nodding a polite greeting to all, before his blue eyes locked on Casey’s for the first time since he had promised her they’d find a way to work things out.

“Rookie...” he stated, his expression unreadable.

If his presence flustered Casey, she hid it well. “You’re a bit too late for that, Dr. Ramsey,” she replied with a bravado she didn’t know she had. “As of sixty seconds ago, I’m not a rookie anymore. I’m officially a resident now.”

“Is that so?” he replied with a hint of a smile. “Then I take it you won’t be making any more rookie mistakes.”

“Well, I’m not sure about that,” she shrugged as her irritation began to crack her unaffected veneer. “If I’ve learned anything recently, it’s that everyone makes mistakes, world-renowned attendings included.”

The table went silent, the friends exchanging nervous looks as Sienna bit her lip. But if they were surprised by her candor, Ethan was not; it was one of the things he had come to admire in her. Clearing his throat, he replied calmly.

“I see,” he mumbled. “Well, I’ll let you and your friends get back to celebrating.”

A hush fell over the table when he turned and made his way toward the bar. Casey’s eyes followed him as her friends remained in a state of shock. Jackie was the first to break the silence. “Well, that wasn’t awkward or anything.”

Bryce tightened his grip around Casey. He knew this had to impact her more than anyone. After all, he was the one who had sat beside her night after night, listening to her cry and wiping away the tears that never seemed to stop. “Hey, are you OK?” He whispered.

Casey looked at him with a forced smile and patted his knee. “Yeah. I’m... fine.”

Sensing her friend’s discomfort, Sienna quickly steered the conversation, and the friends continued chatting as if nothing happened. But Casey couldn’t forget. Her eyes kept wandering back to the bar where Ethan sat in his usual spot – a seat so synonymous with him that it had remained conspicuously empty during his absence.

His expression was distant, and there was a heaviness to him that wasn’t there before. Even Reggie’s lively banter didn’t seem to impact his mood. He looked older... tired, as though the mission had taken more from him than anyone knew. That’s what Casey assumed it was as she looked his way. She may have been a brilliant diagnostician, but right now, her assessment couldn’t have been further from the truth.

The night went on, and before they knew it, Reggie’s voice rang out. “Alright people! Last call. You ain’t gotta go home, but you can’t stay here!”

“Already?” Casey groaned, her voice tightening. “No! It just hit me... I’m starting on the diagnostic team tomorrow!”

“Rub it in, why don’t you?” Elijah laughed as Bryce offered Casey words of reassurance.

“Well, I’m not starting on the diagnostic team, but I still need some sustenance to get through,” Jackie announced. “You guys want to hit the diner on the way home?”

“Why don’t you go ahead,” Casey replied. “I think I’m going stay behind and touch base with Ethan about tomorrow.”

She stepped inside the bar cautiously, so quiet that Ethan didn’t notice her until she took the stool beside him. “So... that last call thing doesn’t apply to you, huh?” she asked.

He turned to her, his eyes heavy with emotion, though his voice remained light. “Reggie and I go way back. We have... an arrangement.”

“An arrangement?” She half-laughed, her arm crossed protectively before her. “Is that what most people would call friendship?”

“I don’t have friends, Casey,” he stated flatly before downing the remains of his drink. “But I wouldn’t mind you joining me if you’re so inclined.”

Casey sat in stunned silence. She had pictured the moment when he would return in her head all summer long. Through the heartbreak and tears, she had practiced the words she planned to say like a mantra. She had perfected them. Each word a unique piece of ammunition designed to pierce his heart the way his silent departure had shattered hers. She had dreamed about finally having the chance to unleash her fury. Letting him know just how much damage he had done, but now, sitting beside him, the words that were in her heart and mind refused to travel to her lips.

With an inaudible sigh, she diverted her eyes. “Sure,” was all she could manage to say.

Ethan nodded with a look of both relief and fear in his eyes. He reached over the bar and grabbed a half-empty bottle of the bar’s finest Scotch and two glasses. “Hey, Reggie,” he yelled. “We’re going to borrow this.”

“Why don’t we take this outside?” He said. “Winter will be here before you know it; we might as well enjoy it while we can.”

“Sure,” she said again, angry at herself for her inability to say more. He hurt so badly and ran off to avoid the fallout left in its wake. He deserved to hear them. Yet, here she was, rendered silent, following him like a loyal pet shadowing its master.

They settled into two chairs beside the fire pit, its flickering light casting a warm glow between them. Ethan poured two drinks, handing one to Casey. When his fingers brushed hers, the simple touch sent a jolt through both of them. Casey wanted to down her drink in one gulp. But, if she wanted to be sober for this conversation, a sip would have to do.

“You look great,” he said with a tentative smile.

“Thank you. You look... different,” she replied, taking him in.

“Different?” he asked, his smile morphing into a full grin. “Different good, or different bad?”

“Just... different.”

“Well,” he admitted with a faint chuckle. “I’ve been through quite a bit.”

“I’m sure,” she said, swirling her glass nervously. “We all have. But, it was brave of you to go on that mission.”

Ethan choked on his drink, reflecting silently for a moment. “That... that wasn’t bravery, Casey.”

The look in his eyes launched a swell of emotions in Casey: anger, sympathy, fear, pain, and mingled with something else - something she thought she already buried. No wonder she couldn’t lash out at him. She didn’t want to feel it; she didn’t want it to be there, but love was never something Casey MacTavish let go of easily. At that moment she knew, despite the anger and hurt, she knew the truth: she couldn’t pull the trigger on him if she tried.

Eventually, the reality of the situation hit her like a wave. After all this time, he was here – sitting in front of her - and she deserved answers. Her voice shook as she spoke, each word filled with pain she had been carrying.

“You left,” she said, her voice barely a whisper. “You left without telling me. Ethan, you didn’t say a single word.”

His expression crumbled, the weight of her accusation hitting him. He knew this confrontation was inevitable, but that did nothing to lessen its sting. Leaning forward, he braced himself; it was time to face the reckoning he always knew would come.

“Casey,” he started, his voice filled with regret. “I have no excuse to offer. I was... a coward. I didn’t know what to do, so I ran... I had to. I knew that if I saw you... if we had talked...I...” His words trailed as he turned away, unable to face the look in her eyes.

“If you came to me, you knew I wouldn’t have let you go with so much unresolved between us,” she replied. “I would have supported your choice if you wanted to go, but I wouldn’t let you use it as an excuse. I wouldn’t have let you run away. You would have had to face things... face me.”

“Yes,” he smiled sadly, “and that’s why I just... left.”

His words felt like a slap on the face. Insult added to injury. Casey was done shielding him from the damage his actions had caused. It was time for him to see it all. A bitter laugh escaped her, echoing through the empty space.

“Yes!” She shot back, her body trembling and her voice filled with rage. “You just... left. Left me! I stood in a conference room with all the other interns when Naveen announced your departure. I got to hear it like I was just anyone else... like I meant absolutely nothing to you!” She shook her head, eyes burning. “You told me we’d figure things out! You insisted we’d find a way to make it work, and I believed you! Then you were just... gone, without so much as a goodbye! Do you have any idea how much that hurt me, Ethan?”

“Casey, I’m sorry,” he repeated, his voice and eyes filled with regret. “I know that was wrong. There is no excuse I can offer to make it right.”

“You knew it was wrong?” she seethed. “You knew! But then you remained silent the whole time you were gone? Two months, Ethan. Two whole months! I left you dozens of voicemails... I stopped counting how many texts I sent! Did you even listen to them? Did you hear the pain in my voice and choose to ignore me? Or did they mean so little that you just deleted them without a second thought?”

“Casey, don’t say that,” he pleaded. “Nothing you say could ever be meaningless to me.”

“Then why?” she demanded, her voice breaking as she fought back tears. “Why didn’t you contact me? You reached out to Naveen. You reached out to Harper. But me? Nothing!” She took a trembling breath. “You just ghosted me... after everything we’ve been through?”

“It’s precisely because of everything we’ve been through that I didn’t contact you,” he replied. “You know the stakes, Casey! We’re going to be working together - you’re reporting to me. Your professional development and reputation... they’re too important. You’ve worked too hard to get where you are to let it all blow up because of me. I couldn’t let whatever we had between us put you at risk.”

“Whatever we had...” she snickered. “Past tense?”

“Yes,” he said firmly. “And the past is where it needs to stay.”

Casey felt the resolve that his presence had softened returning to life inside her. It was all coming together: the sleepless nights, the heartache, hearing the whispers in Edenbrook’s halls, enduring the pitiful stares, the loneliness she felt as she picked up the shattered pieces of herself one by one without so much as a word from the man who had caused it. He owed her... he owed her better than this. She steadied herself before speaking again, her voice defiant.

“Oh, don’t worry about that,” she scoffed. “The past is exactly where it will remain. But do me one favor,” she asked, her vulnerability peeking through once more. “Admit what it was that we’re losing. Tell me what “it” was, Ethan! Can you at least give me that?”

He leaned back, an exasperating sigh escaping him as he focused on the bright stars sparking in the dark sky. “Casey,” he murmured, trying to find the words. “What do you want me to say?”

“The truth!” she yelled. “I want you to tell me the truth! You shattered my heart, Ethan, and left me to cope with it alone. If you ever cared for me at all, then at least have the decency to admit what it was. Don’t leave me believing I was just some... mistake... tell me! Did you... did you ever love me at all?”

Ethan turned to her, his eyes filled with a sadness he couldn’t bring himself to admit. Gently raising a hand, he tilted her chin toward him, relishing the feel of her skin against his, knowing in his heart that he’d never touch her like this again.

She couldn’t see his internal battle - a battle between the part of him that knew she deserved the truth and the part that needed to protect her... protect himself. She deserved to know that she wasn’t the only one who had spent the summer heartbroken. She deserved to know about the dozens of letters he penned, each one confessing the feelings he couldn’t bring himself to say aloud – letters he knew he’d never send.

But what if he told her? Knowing Casey, she’d forgive him and do everything in her power to make them work, even if it meant sacrificing herself. Would she quit the diagnostic team? Leave Edenbrook? Go to a lesser program? Knowing her, she just might. She’d fought tooth and nail to get to this place in her career, and he couldn’t... he wouldn’t let her sacrifice it, not for him, and not for something as fleeting as love.

“Casey,” he finally said, his voice shaking. “Love is nothing more than proximity paired with a rush of neurochemical responses triggered by heightened stress.”

She pushed his hand away, his words cutting deeper than a knife ever could. The memory of the first time he said those words to her came rushing back. At that time, she thought it was just his cynicism talking. It was almost comical. But now? After all, they had been through... he still believed that? Had their time together taught him... nothing.

She took a deep breath as she rose to her feet; this was it, this was the end, and she could feel the sadness giving way to relief.

“Maybe that’s all love is to you,” she replied. “But that’s not all it is to me. I spent the past couple of months so hurt, so angry at you, but right now... all I can feel for you is pity. You want a reset? Ethan... there’s nothing to reset. We were over the day you stepped on that plane. I know my worth, Ethan, and I deserve so much better than this.”

She let the words hang in the air for a moment, then, standing tall, she met his eyes. “I’ll see you at work tomorrow, Dr. Ramsey. I look forward to working with you this year.”

And just like that, she was his colleague and nothing more. He watched her go, her silhouette framed in the soft light of the doorway, and his chest ached with the overwhelming urge to stop her, to say something, anything to pull her back. But as the door clicked shut behind her, he sank back into his chair, knowing she was right. This was the end. They were over.

He closed his eyes for a long moment, the weight of regret crushing his soul. With a deep breath, he reached into the pocket of his leather jacket and pulled a weathered piece of paper, the latest in a long line of the unsent letters he wrote, and his eyes skimmed over the closing lines:

You’ll never know how much you’ve changed me, Casey. If only I had the courage to be a better man. You deserve someone who will meet you in the light instead of hiding in the shadows. I wanted to be that man for you, I did, but it’s not in me. I’ll always carry you in my heart, even though I have to let you go. I love you, Casey. Always - Ethan.”

The paper shook in his trembling hands as he watched the flames dancing. Then, with a sharp exhale, he tossed it into the fire, watching as the edges curled and blackened before his words disintegrating into ash.

It was over. This chapter was closed.

@choicesficwriterscreations @choicesprompts @choicesmonthlychallengenov2024 @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

#open heart #open heart fanfic #open heart choices #choices open heart #ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x mc #choices #choices fanfic #playchoices #playchoices fanfic #choices stories you play #angstgiving #angst

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jerzwriter · 2 months ago

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This is part of my Tobias x Casey AU If It Were Canon... This world mimics canon but with Tobias Carrick as head of the Edenbrook Diagnostic Team instead of Ethan Ramsey. I haven't done much there, but this Holiday idea seemed more attuned to this world.

Book: Open Heart (Book 1) Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish (F!MC) Rating: Teen Words: 2,249 Summary: Tobias & Casey have been trying to push their feelings for each other away from the day they met. But holiday parties have a reputation for bringing these things to the surface, and they are not immune. When a mistletoe moment brings feelings to the surface, will they both feel the same way about it the next day?

A/N: Participating in @choicesholidays Winter Event, prompt: Under the Mistletoe and @choicesdecember2024 and @choicesdecember2024 Day 7: Mistletoe

The Edenbrook Hospital holiday party was in full swing, and the typically bland conference room was transformed into a festive winter wonderland that would make even the most avid Hallmark movie viewer proud. Twinkling white lights and endless boughs of evergreen garlands hung overhead as the sounds of a DJ spinning questionable renditions of holiday classics filled the room. In the midst of this, Dr. Casey Mactavish was nestled in a corner, looking much better than she felt as she nursed a cranberry martini. It may have been a special night at the hospital, but she was doing what she always did... trying to ignore the magnetic pull she felt every time Dr. Tobias Carrick entered her line of sight.

He was across the room, unfairly handsome in his fitted charcoal suit, his blue eyes sparkling as he laughed at something Dr. Harper Avery had just said. Casey bit her lip, her cheeks warming as she replayed every stolen glance and accidental brush of hands they had shared over the last few months in her mind. Most in attendance wouldn’t have noticed her internal struggle, but her best friend, Sienna, wasn’t most people, and she felt her friend’s distress from the moment the handsome doctor strutted into the room.

“Be careful, Case,” Sienna whispered with a knowing grin. “You’re doing it again.”

Casey’s face turned red as the satin dress she bought just for tonight. “I’m not doing anything,” she lied. “I’m just... observing the party.”

“Right. Observing the party. Is there any specific person that you’re... observing?”

Irritated, Casey turned to her friend but couldn’t hide a smile when their eyes met. “Shut up,” she said, polishing off her drink. How did Sienna know her so well?

Unbeknownst to Casey, Tobias was fighting his own battle across the room. Every time he caught a glimpse of her smile or heard her laugh, he swore the room got brighter. He wondered if he was as transparent as he felt. Was it apparent to everyone around him? He hated how obvious his feelings were; he hated that he had these feelings at all. He always prided himself on being in control, and then he met her.

Casey was brilliant, beautiful, and utterly captivating... she had captured him in her spell with just one smile, but she was completely off-limits. He had done his best to put distance between them... trading shifts, transferring cases, even leaving Donahue’s anytime she showed up. But tonight, with a drink or two too many, he felt his usual restraint loosening. He couldn’t keep his eyes off of her.

The night went on, and the drinks kept flowing, leaving Tobias feeling more bold. He crossed the room and sat next to Casey, their easy rapport noticeable at once. They talked all night, at least when they weren’t dancing. Both were doing an equally bad job of hiding the glow that overtook them each time their eyes met or one spoke the other’s name. They were headed to the bar for fresh drinks when it happened.

“Mistletoe!” Elijah hollered as they passed by, sending those around him into cheers. Tobias looked up to find that he and Casey were standing beneath the offending sprig, her eyes wide with embarrassment.

“Looks like you’re up, MacTavish!” Elijah teased.

Before Casey could escape, Tobias shot a mischievous grin. “They’re asking for a show, should we give it to them?”

Casey’s heart almost stopped. “Are you crazy? That would feed the hospital gossip mill for weeks,” she whispered back, though he noted her lips had curved into a smile.

She wasn’t wrong, and typically, he would have refrained, but alcohol had other ideas. “C’mon, MacTavish, it’s all in good fun. And what happens at the holiday party – STAYS at the holiday party.”

He leaned in, his hand landing on her waist, and pressed a playful kiss to her lips. It was supposed to be quick, light, a little joke to please the crowd, but the moment their lips touched, the rest of the world fell away. It wasn’t just a kiss; it was months of desire and longing cumulating into a single, heart-stopping moment.

They pulled apart as the crowd whooped and cheered, their gazes locked on each other. Casey's breath hitched, and she took a self-protective step back. “I... I need some fresh air,” she said, rushing toward the exit.

Tobias only hesitated a second before following her into the frigid December air. Casey was so absorbed in her thoughts that she didn't hear him approaching her; she only noticed him when he was standing at her side.

“Are you okay?” he asked quietly, hands stuffed into his pockets.

Casey turned with a nervous laugh. “Sure! I just kissed my attending in front of half the hospital. I’m pretty sure that’s the introductory chapter of ‘The Best Ways to Ruin Your Career’ handbook.”

Tobias couldn’t help but chuckle; even now, she was so endearing. “I’ve worked at Edenbrook longer than you. I assure you, they'll bore of this by tomorrow. Besides, you're brilliant. Your career will be just fine.”

Then why have we fought this so long? She thought but couldn't muster the nerve to say it out loud. She turned to him, eyes searching his face. “Why did you follow me out here?”

“I was worried about you. I couldn’t let you run off like that,” he admitted, his voice dropping. “And I… I couldn’t let that be the only kiss we ever share.”

Casey exhaled as her eyes fell to the ground. “Tobias…”

But he was undeterred. Taking a step closer, gently brushed her cheek. “I know we probably shouldn’t... but, Casey, I’ve been fighting this since the day we met, and I’m so damn tired of pretending I don’t care about you. That I don't want you."

She bit her lip. She knew she should fight this; she knew she should run away, but it only took one look into his eyes for her walls to come crumbling down.

“I hope I don’t regret this,” she whispered. Grasping the lapels of his jacket, she pulled him into a passionate kiss, and this time, there was no hesitation. His fingers ran through her hair, and their kiss deepened as the moment each had imagined countless times came to life. Casey ran her hands up his arms, groaning softly when his lips fell to her neck, setting Tobias aflame. Without breaking their kiss, he guided them to a nearby bench when Casey began to chuckle.

“What are you laughing at,” he asked, smiling against her lips.

“We're all dressed up, sitting outside of the hospital - I feel like two prom kids who snuck out of the gym to escape the chaperones," she grinned.

“I assure you, Casey. I did not attend prom with anyone like you.”

With that, they went back to the task at hand, forgetting the world existed just feet away. They would have continued for hours if a voice hadn't pulled them away.

“Casey!” Sienna called from the door. “Casey, are you out here?”

“Oh my, God!” she gasped, looking at Tobias. “How long have we been out here?”

“Based on the icicles on our noses," he joked. "I'd say a long time."

Casey jumped up, smoothing out her dress and doing her best to act nonchalant as she answered her friend. “Over here, Si!” She hollered. “Dr. Carrck and I were, uh... we were just discussing a case.”

Sienna looked from Casey to Tobias. Even the king of smooth couldn’t hide the “you caught us” look on his face. “Uh huh,” Sienna teased. “A case... is that what we’re calling it these days?”

“Well, the party is over!" Casey announced, grabbing her friend and roommate’s hand and shooting Tobias a smile. “I’ll see you tomorrow."

“Tomorrow,” he nodded, the light still burning in his eyes.

The following morning, Casey woke up to a pounding headache with only vague recollections of the night before. She stumbled to the kitchen and poured a cup of black coffee when memories her memories began to stir... “Oh my, God!” She said out loud. “Did, did we....”

An hour later, she was at the hospital about to begin rounds when Tobias paged her to his office. Casey headed there with her stomach churning in anticipation. The two of them had felt the spark from the moment they met; there was no doubt in her mind that this... that they... were inevitable. Sure, this could be a little messy, but it was going to happen, and it felt good to finally address it. Before she knew it, she was entering his office cautiously. She found him seated behind his desk, and her heart skipped a beat when she saw the unreadable expression on his face.

“Dr. MacTavish,” he began, his tone formal. “I think we should talk about last night…”

It felt like the floor opened beneath her – in fact – she wished it had. It didn’t take a medical degree from one of the best schools in the nation to know what was coming next – they hadn’t been on the same page at all. She was about to have her heart broken, and she didn't want to be mortified, too. With a sinking heart, she forced a smile. “It was a mistake,” she muttered before he had a chance to say it. “Typical holiday party... too much to drink, and...things happen,” she paused. “Don’t worry, it won’t happen again.”

He nodded with relief, though the tension in his jaw betrayed him. “Exactly. I’m so glad you feel the same way. We need to keep things professional between us.”

“Of course,” she said, her voice clipped. “And that’s exactly what we’ll do. Now, if that’s all?”

“That’s all,” he said with a smile that didn’t meet his eyes. "And...things don’t have to be awkward between us, Casey. Sometimes... these things happen.”

“Yes, agreed,” she nodded, hopping to her feet. She couldn’t get out of his office soon enough.

Her vision was blurred by tears she refused to shed as she walked to the door, letting out a breath the second it closed behind her. Ignoring a curious glance or two, she rushed to the nearest supply room and slammed the door.

At least he was cool about it, she thought, but that didn’t ease the pain. Could she have been this wrong? She swore he felt it, too; she knew he did... or perhaps she wasn’t as perceptive as she liked to believe. With a shake of her head, she rose to her feet, wiping away any trace of tears. She stepped into the hallway with her head held high. She wouldn’t let this defeat her, but that sinking feeling in her chest wouldn't leave anytime soon.

Tobias watched as she left the room, his heart twisting. He almost stopped her, opening his mouth to call her name, but no words came out. He had to, he told himself. He had to let her go, but why did it have to hurt this bad? He lied to her, for both their sakes, but he lied to her nevertheless, and as he slumped back into his chair, he realized what a terrible mistake he just made. He couldn't leave things like this.

Later that night, Casey was sitting on the couch in her tiny apartment, a mug of hot cocoa doing nothing to help her sadness, when she heard a knock at her door. She wasn't in the mood to be social, but her roommates were not home, so she rose to her feet with a frown. She opened the door, shocked to find Tobias standing there with a sheepish grin on his face and a sprig of mistletoe in his hand.

“Hello,” he smiled, stepping inside before she could protest.

“What... what are you doing here?” she asked, her heart pounding.

“I need to apologize, Casey. I wasn’t honest with you today. I can't stop thinking about last night... just like I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you from the day we met.”

“But... but you said...” she stammered as he raised a finger to her lips.

“I thought I was saying the right thing, but it wasn’t. A lie is never the right thing. The truth is, I’m crazy about you, MacTavish – and with Christmas just a week away, I know I don’t want to spend it with anyone but you.”

He took a deep breath and raised the mistletoe held above their heads.

“Can I have a do-over?” He asked. “No audience this time - just us. And when we’re done, we'll figure out a way to move forward together because I’m done fighting what I feel.”

Casey’s breath hitched as she leaned in, words unnecessary as their lips met again. They were done fighting it, this thing between them was real, and nothing, not rules, not gossip, not fear, would keep them apart anymore.

Tobias was reverent when they broke away, their foreheads pressed against each other’s, but Casey couldn’t contain her grin.

“Merry Christmas, Tobias,” she whispered, her voice full of emotion.

Tobas cupped her cheek as he gazed into her eyes. “Merry Christmas, Casey,” he smiled.

They stood in the entranceway, wrapped in a tight embrace. There were things to figure out, but not now; now, they were going to relish the moment. Christmas came early for Tobias and Casey this year, and right now, all that mattered was they finally had each other.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

#open heart #open heart choices #choices open heart #open heart fanfic #tobias carrick #tobias carrick x mc #tobias x casey #choices #choices fanfic #playchoices #playchoices fanfic #choices the stories you play

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jerzwriter · 4 months ago

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Thank you to @kyra75 for this request from @choicesprompts Flufftober event - prompt: Secret Admirer for Tobias x Casey. It was a lot of fun to write this sweet little story. I'm writing a "sort of" follow-up to this for @snoopdogcone's last prompt request, too! I hope you enjoy it!

Book: Open Heart (Post Series Timeline) Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish (F!MC) Featuring: Ethan Ramsey Rating: General Words: 1,300 Summary: Casey's got a secret admirer, and Tobias is determined to find out who it is.

A/N: Also participating in @choicesmonthlychallenge Flufftober - Prompts: Warm hugs, handwritten letters.

It started small: a few handwritten notes left on Casey’s desk that eventually progressed to a series of little gifts. First was a tiny stuffed unicorn with huge blue eyes, “Just like yours!” the accompanying note read. The next day, it was a bag of Geysers candy with a big bow and a tiny card that read, “Roses are red, Violets are blue, these candies are sweet, just like you!”

Casey smiled as she picked it up. Assuming they were from a grateful patient, the lovely gestures made her smile, but Tobias’s antennas were up. “Case, these aren’t thank-you gifts; a patient would let you know who they were from,” he pointed out with a grin. “Someone’s got herself a secret admirer!”

“A secret admirer?” Casey chortled. “Tobias! Be serious. Everyone at Edenbrook knows I’m with you.” She sauntered over to him, straightening the lapels on his labcoat with a little grin. “And while you’re a very secure man and not the jealous type... you can also be a little... unhinged, darling. So, don't worry. No one here is messing with me.”

“Unhinged,” he chuckled, pulling her in for a warm embrace, his voice dropping low. “Only when I’m under the covers with you.”

Ethan walked into the office and let out a groan laced with disgust. “Someday, the two of you won’t work here, and I won’t have to greet each day with a spell of nausea.”

“Maybe?” Casey smiled, “but you would miss us!”

He put on his glasses and turned to her with a blank stare. “Maybe?”

“Hey,” Tobias asked. “What do you make of these gifts Casey’s receiving? You think someone’s got a little crush?”

“It's possible,” Ethan shrugged. “But Casey’s already shown she has questionable taste in suitors when she fell for you... so, I think you’re safe, Carrick.”

Tobias scoffed. “Safe?” he shook his head, glancing at himself in the mirror. “Of course I’m safe! I mean, look at me... and this isn’t even with my abs exposed....”

“Shall I get you the Pepto Bismol?” Casey whispered to Ethan.

“It would be appreciated,” he replied.

“I’m just saying... it's not that I'm jealous. But if someone’s got a crush on my girl. I think we should figure out who it is so the poor fool understands that they don’t have a chance.”

"You think it's Ron from Radiology, don't you," Ethan smirked.

"Mmh, Ron is kind of hot," Casey teased.

Tobias turned to them both, unamused. "Don't you worry, I'll get to the bottom of this!"

But the days kept coming, and the gifts kept coming with them. When a heart-shaped lollipop appeared on her desk, Tobias had enough... he was going to get to the bottom of this. “Alright, this is getting serious. Someone out there has a full-blown crush on you, and it’s time we investigate.”

Casey rolled her eyes. “They’re sweet gestures, babe, but it’s just someone being nice. You’re reading too much into it.”

“You know you’re beautiful, you’re brilliant, and I’m so glad you’re mine... but you’re a little naïve, dear. No one is doing all these things because they're being nice!”

“Are you getting jealous, love?”

“No!” He insisted. “It’s not jealousy, but someone is leaving gifts for my girl. It’s about time they get the memo that she’s taken. It’s an act of kindness, really. Let them know they should move on to someone else, where they might stand a chance.”

“Yes, dear,” Casey chuckled as Tobias set off to find answers.

He passed Casey’s office frequently that day, enlisting some buddies to also serve as spies. But as the day was dwindling to an end, he was beginning to feel defeated when fate smiled upon him.

He was just finishing his rounds when he spotted Connor, a young patient of Casey’s, marching toward her office with a bouquet of flowers in hand. Casey had taken a liking to the boy, often stopping by his room after her shift to help him with homework or play a video game or two. A smile tugged on Tobias’s lips as he saw the light in the little boy's eyes.

“Hey, buddy!” Tobias smiled, mussing up Connor’s sandy blonde hair. “Are those flowers for Dr. MacTavish?”

Connor nodded with a smile despite his embarrassment. “Yeah…Dr. Casey is so nice, and, um, she’s really pretty, too. And she knows all about baseball and lets me play her playlist during my checkups.”

Tobias chuckled, crouching down to Connor’s level. “I don’t blame you, kiddo. Dr. Casey’s pretty awesome.”

Connor looked over his shoulder, then looked around again to ensure no one could hear him. “Do you know if she’s married?” he whispered.

Tobias’s eyes went wide. “Married? No. I don’t think she’s married. But I do know she’s loved the little gifts you’ve left her. She should be here any moment now. Why don't you deliver this one to her yourself? I’m sure she’d love that.”

“Do you think so?” Connor asked, his eyes wide.

“I do,” Tobias nodded. “Why don’t you sit here and wait.”

Tobias walked to the nurses’ station, pretending to review a folder, but his eyes never lost sight of the adorable little boy sitting on a chair outside of Casey's office.

Connor bit his lip nervously but still managed a smile when he saw Casey approaching her office. Tobias looked on as Connor timidly handed her the flowers, his cheeks turning red.

“Connor! Are these for me?” Casey beamed.

Connor couldn't muster up words, but his face lit up with joy as he nodded. Casey sat on the chair next to Connor and squeezed his little hand. “Are you the one who has been leaving me all the sweet notes and treats?”

The boy just nodded again.

“Well, I have to thank you. You’ve made me smile so many times this week. Thank you for that, Connor. You made me feel very special."

The boy looked up and caught Tobias watching. He smiled and gave the boy a quick thumbs-up.

“Well, you’ve made me smile, too, Dr. Casey. Do you think we could play video games later?”

Casey gave him a little squeeze. “You better believe we will! In fact, why don’t I bring some of the Geysers you gave me? We can share them!”

“Can we?” he said, eyes wide with excitement.

“Of course!”

The boy jumped off Casey’s lap and rushed to his room, his heart pounding with pride as he gave Tobias a high five along the way.

Casey’s heart was full of warmth as she locked eyes with Tobias, gesturing toward her office. As soon as the door was closed, she wrapped her arms around his neck. “So, you solved the mystery, Sherlock. Looks like my admirer is an adorable young man, after all!”

“Yep,” Tobias grinned. “I like him! The kids got great taste. But I don’t have to worry, do I?”

Casey playfully mulled it over before kissing her boyfriend’s cheek. “Luckily for you, younger men aren’t my thing. I like more into old men, like you.”

“Old man,” he growled, pulling Casey flush against him as his lips fell to her neck, leaving a not-so-tender kiss behind. “I’ll show you, old man!”

Casey giggled as she playfully pushed him away. “Well, if I have any other secret admirers, I know who to turn to. But for now, maybe let’s let my pint-sized Romeo keep his little crush.”

“Deal,” Tobias laughed. “But I'm watching him! I mean, the kids got game. If I take him under my wing, he could be a master by the time he's in high school.”

“T,” Casey laughed. “Leave him be! He’s doing just fine on his own, and, besides, the world can only handle one Tobias Carrick.”

“You've got a point,” Tobias grinned. “But if Connor ever needs a pep talk, I’m going to have his back!”

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

#open heart #open heart fanfic #open heart choices #choices open heart #tobias carrick #tobias carrick x mc #ethan ramsey #choices #choices fanfic #playchoices #playchoices fanfic #choices stories you play

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jerzwriter · 2 months ago

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This is always such a challenge - and I don't even attempt to limit it to five. lol

In alpha order - because asking me to rank them would be asking entirely too much! lol

Ashes Open Heart - Ethan Ramsey x Casey MacTavish (F!MC)

I love angst, and the Amazon period from Open Heart always delivers. In my TxC world, Casey dated Ethan but broke up with him when he left without saying goodbye. This was their first encounter upon his return.

A Different Fate (AU): The Final Chapter Open Heart - Ethan Ramsey x Kaycee MacClennan (F!MC)

Second-chance romances are like crack for me! lol I started A Different Fate in 2023, but I wrote/posted the final chapter in 2024. This series was very special to me, so I had to include this on my Best of 2024 list.

The Journey (AU) Open Heart - Ethan Ramsey x Kaycee MacClennan

Again, I love angst, I love drama, and I love a good second-chance romance. In this AU, a divorced Ethan x Kaycee are dropping their daughter off for her first semester at college. But what happens when memories come flooding back?

Money, Money | A Little Jealous | To Love & Overprotect Open Heart - Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish

While my babies were awfully happy when they finally got together, that doesn't mean that they didn't have things to work through. In this trilogy, I explored a few of the bigger issues.

Mostly Pleasant Surprises: Part 4 - And that's what happened... Open Heart - Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish

The long-delayed story about how these two finally got together - it lived in my head for years, but I finally wrote it in 2024 - and that made me so happy! I also had this commissioned from @/artbyainna to commemorate it!

New Discoveries Open Heart ("MOC World") - Tobias Carrick, Ethan Ramsey, Bryce Lahela

Part of "MOC World" (Merida, Olivia, Casey), where the friendships are every bit as delicious as the romances! Here, a boy's trip goes amock, and there were plenty of laughs to be had. This was so much fun to write! **

One Day Crimes of Passion - Trystan Thorne x Carolina Rose (F!MC)

Nothing like a "there's just one bed" trope, but when it's one bed and two characters from different worlds who are in denial about their feelings for each other - well, then it's bound to be as funny as it is sweet. I really enjoyed this little story.

Something New Wake the Dead - Eli Sipes x Zoe Rivera (F!MC)

I didn't write much for WTD this year, but the story and its characters will always be precious to me. Here, residents of the newly formed Olympus have to decide on how they'll be handling some traditions - and Eli x Zoe need to make some choices, too.

Honorable mentions:

A Change in Plans (AU) - OH - Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish

Monopoly Series (AU) - OH - Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish (F!MC) - this would technically be in my top 10, but since it's a series about polyamory - and I have not gotten to that part yet - I felt inauthentic including it. So it's here until 2025 :)

Pietro y Azul - OH - Tobias Carrick, Jackie Varma

A Shot of Reality - OH - Tobias Carrick, Merida (F!MC) **

Traditions (Part 1) - WTD - Eli Sipes x Zoe Rivera

Whodunit? - OH - Tobias x Casey Carrick

With Warning: Part Two - Ethan Ramsey - OH - Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish, Ethan Ramsey

** Thank you to @lilyoffandoms and @storyofmychoices for letting me "borrow" their babies, Merida and Olivia! The stories that combine our worlds are always among my favorites each year!

@choicesficwriterscreations

#open heart #crimes of passion #wake the dead #choices fanfic #choices #playchoices #playchoices fanfic #ethan ramsey #tobias carrick #eli sipes #trystan thorne #top 10 of 2024 #best of 2024 #my picks 2024

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jerzwriter · 6 months ago

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Mono~poly Chapter 5: Beautiful Days

A Tobias x Casey AU - Information and Notes

AU Premise: What happens when something that was supposed to be just fun turns into something real? When true love enters the equation between two people who view the very concept of love in different ways, can it work? In this alternate universe, we'll follow Casey and Tobias (and some others along the way) on their journey, where a happy ending is what both desire, but (as in life) nothing is guaranteed.

Fandom: Open Heart, Choices** Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish F!MC Characters: Ethan Ramsey, Jackie Varma and OCs: Vivian Carrick, Jordan Carrick, Rose D'Allesandro, Addie Larkin, David MacTavish, Peter MacTavish, Diana Ellington-Rourke Rating: Teen Words: 5,300

Chapter Summary: The chapter begins with friends and family gathering for Tobias and Casey's big day. There is much revelry to be had, but for some, emotions run high. Later, the couple has settled into a happily married life where the honeymoon never seems to end. But as they prepare to celebrate their third anniversary, Casey receives an offer that is hard to refuse. Will that change things?

A/N: Participating in @choicesaugustchallenge Day 30 - Summer Wedding. A huge thank you to @angelasscribbles for prereading this for me!

The news spread like wildfire. It only took days for all of Boston to be abuzz over the engagement of Drs. Tobias Carrick and Casey MacTavish; it only took a few more before it was news in their hometowns, too. The announcement was met with a blend of joy and levity. While those who knew him had had a few years to get used to Tobias trading his swinging single life, and most were thrilled about his union with Casey, a dose of good-natured ribbing was bound to take place.

His mother, Vivian, was overjoyed and initiated her plans to deliver an August wedding that would leave people talking for years at once. With two confirmed bachelors as sons, she never thought she’d live to see this day, and she wasn't containing her excitement. When she stopped in to see Casey the morning of the wedding, she informed the young woman that she was erecting an altar for her daughter-in-law-to-be in her backyard, and Casey wasn't sure if she was joking.

In Casey’s corner of the world, her mother, Rose, was equally enthusiastic. Her reaction warmed Casey’s heart despite her fears over the inevitable conversations about how her father, David, would fit into the wedding plans. Those negotiations were fraught with tension and left Casey in tears - that’s the thing about the emotional baggage childhood delivers: it never fully goes away.

But Tobias was having none of it; he was totally serious about eloping if they failed to get their act together, and Casey was completely on board. That ultimatum was all Vivian needed to hear before she put the fear of God into both the D’Allesandro and MacTavish families. She promptly called a meeting, telling Tobias and Casey that she would take care of it all. Within an hour, Vivian emerged from the locked room with a satisfied grin and nary a hair out of place, assuring, “They will behave.”

Now, after months of planning and fuss... the day was finally here. It was time to celebrate the happy couple's love and commitment, and they were on top of the world.

After a chaotic morning, Casey was enjoying a quiet moment alone before the ceremony began. The soft hum of voices and laughter of guests who had gathered outside seeped through the venue’s walls as she adjusted the final touches of her wedding gown, its delicate lace and satin catching the light just so when Ethan entered the room.

His arrival went unnoticed. So, he leaned against the doorframe, allowing himself a few precious moments to take her in. A broad smile tugged at his lips, despite a hint of sadness lingering in his eyes. Clearing his throat to make his presence known, he moved toward her with the ease and familiarity of their long-standing bond.

“It’s not too late to run away,” he said with a playful grin. “Just say the word, and I’ll drive the getaway car.”

Casey turned toward him, her smile bright as her eyes met his. Ethan. Her dear friend, Ethan. While some might balk at a bride having her former lover as one of her bridal attendants, Tobias wholeheartedly supported her choice. He understood the depth of their friendship and was pleased that Casey would have him by her side on this special day. He wanted nothing more than for his bride to have everything her heart desired.

“Come on, Ethan," she teased. "You and Tobias buried the hatchet years ago. Do you really want to hurt him that bad?”

“Of course I don’t," he smiled. "And that would absolutely kill him.” He took a deep breath, his eyes still reflecting the bittersweet emotions in his heart. “You look absolutely stunning, Casey. You’re going to take Tobias’s breath away.”

“Thank you,” she blushed.

“He doesn’t deserve you – you know that, right?”

Casey winked playfully and adjusted the layers of her skirt. “I know!”

The tender moment burst when Jackie rushed into the room, her nervousness palpable. “Hate to bust this party up, but the photographer needs us in 15 minutes, and I have to finish getting the princess camera ready.”

Ethan’s eyes widened in disbelief. “Not ready? She's gorgeous! How can you improve on that?”

Casey chuckled softly. “See, I told you I needed him around to bolster my ego! But I do have some last minute touches to complete.” She shooed Ethan away. “Go - go join the other attendants and have fun. I’ll be down before you know it.”

Jackie clapped her hands the moment Ethan exited the room. “It’s almost showtime! You ready?”

Casey beamed with a joy that radiated from inside. “You better believe I am! I can’t believe it’s already time!”

Jackie looked at her friend in the mirror, her smile faltering just a bit. “I’m so happy for you,” she whispered. “But you do have the prenup in order, right?”

The smile fell from Casey's face. “Jackie! Is that any way to talk to me 30 minutes before my wedding?” She tried to keep the mood light, but there was an unmistakable trace of annoyance in her voice. But it would take more than that to deter Jackie.

“You didn’t answer?”

Casey’s heart sank as she turned to her friend. “His family’s attorneys sent one over last week, but Tobias lost his mind. He insisted he didn’t want one; we’re going to be together forever, so…”

Jackie rolled her eyes, and it didn't go unnoticed. “Jackie, really? You’re my maid of honor! Tell me you’re joking about this! These are supposed to be the happiest moments of my life.”

Jackie’s internal struggle had her light-headed. She loved Casey, and she loved Tobias, too. She couldn’t deny their relationship had proven even the greatest skeptics wrong; they’d be relationship goals personified if not for that one promise. She was the only one who knew Casey had made it three years before, and if Tobias ever called in the offer of dabbling in non-monogamy, she wasn’t confident her friend would be able to handle it; if that happened, she doubted their marriage would survive. Still, Casey was relying on her, so Jackie forced herself back to the present.

“You know I’m an asshole,” she grinned. “I’m joking, girl. I love you, and I love Tobias, too. Come on. Let’s get you ready to marry your man.”

Casey took a deep breath as Jackie delicately placed the veil on her head. She’d have to be a fool to pretend she couldn't read Jackie's thoughts. Yet, at this moment, her heart was overflowing with joy, leaving no room for doubts. She loved Tobias with all her heart, and his love for her ran just as deep. She couldn’t imagine being happier than she was today. Yes, Casey was confident... this was forever.

The ceremony went off without a hitch; a Hollywood director couldn’t have scripted it better. Tobias wiped away tears as Casey walked down the aisle. She had opted to walk alone, and at that moment, he silently promised she’d never be alone again. Casey had struggled to hold back her tears - her make-up was flawless, after all - but her husband’s heartfelt vows diminished her resolve. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house when the officiant pronounced them husband and wife; the joy was unmistakable.

Vivian had meticulously planned the reception to be an elegant affair, but with Tobias & Casey as the bridal couple, there was bound to be some debauchery. Still, the revelry was kept in check, and after a couple of hours of staying glued to each other’s side, they began making the rounds. Tobias was on the dance floor with his friend Addie, who Casey had finally managed to wrangle into a bridesmaid’s dress.

“And they said it couldn’t be done,” Addie grinned.

“Ehh, that was a long time ago. Tell me you haven’t expected this from the moment I met Casey?”

“The moment? No. Absolutely not,” Addie laughed. “A year in... mmmm... maybe. But all I know is I’ve never seen you smile like this. I’m really happy for you, T.”

Tobias’s beamed, his face a picture of pride, joy, and contentment. “Thank you. I’m happy for me, too.” As they continued to dance, Addie leaned in closer, and Tobias returned to the playful banter that marked their friendship.

“Hey, I just realized... you’re here alone tonight. You’re always whining that you only get plus ones on your invites. Casey and I give you a plus two, and who do you bring? No one!”

“Relax!” she chortled. “It wasn’t intentional. My boyfriend is traveling with his band, and my girlfriend was going to come, but her Mom got sick, and she had to fly back to Dallas yesterday.”

“That’s too bad. I was hoping to get to know them better; I swear you’re hiding them from me.”

“That’s not true,” she insisted. “The three of us are just pretty independent. But on the upside, I’m here stag, so if I run into any cute guests...”

Tobias barked out a laugh, “They won’t have a chance against you!”

Just then, he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned to find his mother, resplendent in an emerald green satin gown. “Mind if I cut in?” she asked.

Addie raised her hands with a playful smile. “As if I’d argue with you, Vivian.” She gave Tobias a quick kiss on the cheek before hurrying off.

Tobias took his mother in his arms, his heart full of love and gratitude. “Have I mentioned how grateful I am for all you’ve done for us today?”

“A few times,” she nodded. “But please continue. I think I'm entitled to hear it multiple times since you made me wait so damn long for this day."

Tobias chuckled, and then his gaze landed on Casey. “I think it was worth the wait, don’t you?”

Vivian followed his line of sight and nodded with a smile. “Absolutely! Casey is a gem. I love her as if she is my own." She turned back to her son with a sigh. "You did good, Tobias. Now, don’t mess this up!”

“I promise, Mom. See that smile on her face? I intend to make sure she looks that way every day for the rest of her life."

“That’s what I want to hear,” she smiled as they swayed to the music. “Is she enjoying the day?” taking a half-step back, she changed her tone. “Has her family been behaving?”

Tobias winced slightly, and Vivian knew he was grappling to decide if he should tell her the truth. “Overall, yes... but her Father and one of his relatives were overheard discussing how relieved they are that she ended up marrying a man.”

“Oh, for God’s sake!” Vivian spat. “Do I need to intervene?”

“No,” Tobias laughed. “We don't want bloodshed at the wedding, Ma. Besides, Casey shook it off, and her cousin, Peter, made it very clear that they needed to knock it off. Let’s just say I’m confident there won’t be any more incidents.”

“Well, as long as Casey is all right.”

“She is; she told me nothing is going to spoil today for her... for us.”

“I’m glad,” Vivian smiled. “Because this is a glorious day and if anyone messed it up... no promises on the bloodshed.”

The reception was winding down, but the sounds of laughter, clinking glasses, and soft music still filled the air. Casey was sitting at a table with friends, their spirits high as they recounted funny stories from the past and talked about the day’s events. Casey had her head tilted back in laughter when Tobias slipped up behind her and pulled her into a passionate kiss.

“All right, this has been the best day of my life, baby, but we have a honeymoon in Bali to get to... and honey... do I have plans for you.”

Sienna raised an eyebrow as she put down her drink. “So, what you’re saying is, in a couple of days, this will be demoted to the second or third best day of your life?”

Tobias’s brother Jordan chuckled from the other end of the table. “Well, their honeymoon is 14 days long, so this is going to be his 15th best day real soon.”

Casey rolled her eyes as the group burst into laughter, and then she looked at Jackie and Sienna’s way. “I should go get changed. Jackie, Sienna, mind helping me out of this dress?”

“Hey!” Tobias interjected with a teasing grin. “Isn’t that my job?”

“There will be plenty of time for that on the honeymoon,” Casey winked, giving him a gentle shove before she headed off, leaving Tobias and his friends behind. He ordered a bottle of the restaurant’s finest Scotch to continue the celebration. When it arrived, Ethan took it in hand, visibly approving the choice. He poured a glass for everyone as the toasting began.

“Here’s to Tobias!” Bryce started. “The man who swore he’d never do something as crazy as this, and look at him now... he’s totally whipped.”

“Seriously,” his brother, Jordan, chimed in. “I’m so happy, and not just because you took some family pressure to get hitched off of me! As the now sole confirmed bachelor of the Carrick family, I wish you the very best... Casey is precious - now, don’t screw this up!”

Ethan was the next to go. “To Tobias. You’ve married a wonderful woman. Casey’s very lucky but nowhere near as lucky as you. Remember to appreciate every moment.”

“Salut!” the friends toasted as Ethan forced a smile. Seated at Tobias’s side, his friend Addie looped her arm in his and raised her glass.

“Hey, I’m not getting left out of this!” she insisted with a grin. “Cheers to my dear friend Tobias—the one person I thought was less likely to settle into monogamy than me. Just look at you proving us all wrong. But I get it... Casey is amazing, and I’m genuinely, truly happy for you.”

“Thank you," he winked. "So, you gonna join me over here on this monogamy train."

“Oh, no fucking chance!” Addie laughed.

There was only one person left, Casey’s cousin Peter. Both were only children, and they grew up closer than most siblings, and all eyes were on him when he raised his glass.

“Tobias, I’ve watched the love between you and Casey grow over the past three years. It’s hard to believe, but every time I see you, it appears to deepen and grow. I couldn't be happier for both of you. Here’s to a future filled with love, laughter, and everything your hearts desire. But remember... be good to her.”

“I wouldn’t dream of treating her any other way," Tobias insisted.

“Good,” Peter laughed, giving Ethan’s shoulder a playful slap on the shoulder. “Then you’ll save the two of us the trouble of having to dispose of your body.”

They all raised their glasses and drank. The warmth of the Scotch reflected the warm feeling in the room. Surrounded by love and well wishes, Tobias and Casey continued their journey. Neither could wait for the life they were about to build.

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

The fluorescent lights in the diagnostic team’s office created the illusion of midday, even as dusk approached outside. What had once been a sterile, impersonal space had transformed over the years, thanks to Casey’s loving touch. Shelves that were once filled solely with medical journals and textbooks now showcased lush plants and carefully chosen photos. Ethan had initially approved the more formal shots— the team at award dinners, conferences, and the like—but Casey had managed to slip in some candid moments, too. Memories that highlighted the friendship the members of the team shared. Now, photos of them at local festivals, picking pumpkins in the fall, turning green at amusement parks, and smiling on a sunset cruise dotted the room. She had argued that they spent more time at work than they did at home, so their space should reflect that. Eventually, Ethan relented—with Casey involved, no one was surprised.

That cozy spot was where Casey, Ethan, and Jackie found themselves today as their workdays wound down. The faint hum of hospital activity provided a soothing background noise as their conversations turned to weekend plans. Ethan was attending a philharmonic concert, Jackie wanted nothing more than to catch up on sleep, and Casey couldn’t have been more excited to celebrate her third wedding anniversary.

“Three years already? How is that possible?” Jackie marveled.

“You made it to three years!” Ethan joked. “How is that possible?”

“Meh,” Casey smirked. “We have oodles of kinky sex and great communication – we’re set for life!”

“Ugh,” Jackie groaned. “Did you have to bring the conversation there, Ethan?”

“Me?!” He protested. “Casey’s the one who turned this conversation.”

“Don’t act all puritanical, Dr. Ramsey!” Casey laughed. “My third wedding anniversary should bring back good memories for you, too.”

“This again?” Ethan moaned. “When are you going to let it go?”

“As soon as you call her! You convincing Addie to go home with you once after my wedding is not enough to satiate me! You should know that! You two would be so good together.”

“Wait! Is that how he told you it happened!” Jackie jumped in. “I was there, and Addie was the one doing the seducing. Ramsey didn’t stand a chance.”

Ethan took off his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose. “It was a one-time private thing. You all really have to move on.”

“Fine!” Casey sighed. “I’ll just go on representing the happily married contingent of the diagnostic team for the foreseeable future.”

Just then, Tobias entered the room, his larger-than-life presence immediately commanding attention.

“Is that my beautiful wife talking? If so, you represent that contingency very well, baby.” With effortless charisma, he leaned over Casey’s chair and placed a lingering kiss on her lips.

“Great. Now we’re subjected to these two,” Ethan grumbled as Jackie groaned in agreement.

“What?” Tobias grinned as he poured a cup of coffee. “We’re at work! I know how to contain myself, you know.”

The room went silent as three sets of eyes stared at him incredulously. “All right, all right,” he smirked. “I know how to dial it down... to a degree. But you can’t blame me,” he added, sitting beside Casey. “The honeymoon never ends with this one.”

“Why are you here so early?” Casey asked, politely steering the conversation. “Your shift doesn’t begin for another hour.

“Correct, but yours ends in fifteen minutes. I thought we could grab dinner together in the cafeteria before you head out. You know,” he said, looking pointedly at Ethan. “Because my boss is an asshole who keeps scheduling us on opposite shifts.”

“That’s not true!” Ethan defended. “I go out of my to....”

“Relax! Relax!” Tobias laughed. After all these years, he still knew how to push Ethan’s buttons. “I’m teasing. Honestly, you do a great job making sure Casey and I get time together, and I appreciate it.”

Casey’s expression grew momentarily serious as her eyes met Ethan’s with a knowing look, but if Tobias noticed, he didn’t let on.

“So what do you say, baby? Dinner?” he asked.

Casey looked at her watch and nodded. “I do have errands to run after work. But if we go right now, I can squeeze you in.”

“Oh, honey, you can’t say squeeze me in and....”

“STOP IT!” Jackie yelled, holding her ears, and the happy couple laughed as they walked down the hall.

They settled into a quiet corner of the cafeteria, two chicken potpies—one of the better offerings—steamed between them. Casey smiled warmly at Tobias and reached across the table to gently squeeze his hand. She was so happy to see him, but she knew they had to tell him some news.

“Tobias,” she began, her voice tinged with apprehension. “You know the research Ethan and I have been doing on the inequities in diagnosing women’s health conditions?”

“Of course,” he replied, digging into his food. “You’ve been passionate about it. I really believe that if you keep at it, you could help bridge that gap and make a real difference.”

“Well,” she said, a mix of pride and nervousness in her eyes, “Apparently, you’re not the only one who thinks so. The National Institutes of Health agrees, and they’ve offered us an enormous grant to continue our studies. They want us to create a blueprint and train others nationwide.”

His eyes widened in disbelief as he grabbed her hand. “Honey! That’s incredible! This is huge! I’m so, so proud of you!”

“Thank you, baby,” she said softly. “But... I’m not sure I’m going to participate. I told Ethan I needed some time to think about it.”

He looked at her, both shocked and concerned. “You... you what?”

“Tobias, it’s difficult enough for us to make time to be together now. If I take this on, it’ll be in addition to my regular work. It means long hours and a lot of travel; I don't know if it's a good idea.”

“Hon, we’ll figure it out,” he said firmly. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime. You can’t turn it down. I won’t let you.”

Casey’s face twisted, her eyes filling with tears. “But we were talking about possibly starting a family soon,” she whispered. “This would put that on hold indefinitely.”

“Possibly,” He replied gently. “We didn't even decide for sure if we wanted kids.”

“But we were leaning that way.”

“And we still can,” he reassured her. “I’m the old one here, you’re not. If we have to delay it, so be it. But baby, you can’t pass this up opportunity.”

“You really wouldn't mind?” she asked, her eyes searching his face for any sign of hesitation.

“Mind? Do you have any idea how much I'm going to brag about this?” he grinned. “I'm going to be incorrigible. What does your wife do? Oh, that’s cute. Let me tell you about my wife.” He slid his chair closer to hers and brushed a stray hair from her face before he gave her a playful kiss. “Not only is my wife gorgeous,” he kissed her again. “Not only is she hot as hell,” another kiss. “She’s brilliant, and she's going to change the world.” He pulled her closer, this time capturing her lips in a lingering kiss, deeper and more intense. “My wife,” he whispered, “is perfect in every way, and I’m so glad she’s mine.”

A lump formed in Casey’s throat as tears filled her eyes. “Have I ever told you how happy I am that I married you?”

“Yes,” he grinned. “But tell me again.”

“Have I told you how...” but Tobias silenced her by gently placing a finger over her lips.

“Not now,” he whispered. “Later, when I get home from work. In bed, naked... tell me then.”

“Hey, if that’s how you want me to tell you, I won’t just tell you... I’ll show you, too!”

“That’s the idea,” he smirked.

Casey hugged him, noticing the time on the clock over his shoulder. “Oh, shoot! I’m sorry, honey, but I have to go.”

“What's so important that you’re cutting our time short?” he asked, holding tight to her hand.

“I have anniversary plans to attend to,” she smiled as she cleared her place.

“But that’s not until Saturday?” He groaned. “Why do you have to go now?”

Casey gave him a knowing look. “I need to make sure my lingerie is in order,” she winked. "You wouldn't want to interfere with that."

“All right,” he sighed dramatically, making a show of dropping her hand. “Then go! Get out of here. Please, go!”

“Fine!” she giggled, picking up her tray.

“And remember,” he called after her, “the traditional gift for the third anniversary is leather. Feel free to add that to the mix.” He wiggled his eyebrows suggestively as she walked away.

Tobias chuckled to himself as a resident glanced over, looking a bit horrified. “What?” Tobias grinned, unbothered. "One more trip to HR won’t kill me.... and she's worth it."

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

Casey hustled out of Edenbrook and headed toward the South End neighborhood they called home, with a smile tugging at her lips. The whole “lingerie situation” was already under control —she’d taken care of that weeks ago. But she had another stop to make, the Beacon Gallery.

She’d commissioned a painting by an up-and-coming artist to give to Tobias as an anniversary gift, and he asked for her to stop by and see it before he finished the work. The piece was eclectic, blending hues of their favorite colors and incorporating elements and symbols representing key moments from their time together. The general viewer might not decipher its meaning, but Casey knew Tobias would take one look at it, and his heart would melt.

The way Casey spoke about Tobias and described the deep love they shared moved the artist to name the piece Eternal Love. Casey smiled at the sentiment, believing it perfectly captured their bond.

But the gallery's owner balked at the idea. “That’s tempting fate!” He insisted. “Why do anything to welcome bad luck.”

Casey brushed him off, replying with confidence. “We don't need luck. We make our own own.”

The evening was beautiful, so when she left the gallery, she decided to take the long way home, strolling through the familiar streets she knew and loved so well. She was headed toward their favorite bakery to pick up a few things for dinner, when something unexpected caught her eye—a new gallery, one she was certain they’d never visited before.

She tried to recall if Tobias ever mentioned a new gallery opening. She was certain he had taken her to every existing gallery in Boston and beyond, and she was confident this one was new.

With her curiosity piqued, she crossed the street and gazed into the window. The artwork displayed was stunning—vibrant colors, bold strokes, and intricate details that she knew Tobias would love. The gallery itself looked almost empty, as if it was still being set up, so she decided to step inside.

The scent of fresh paint and varnish greeted her, as did crisp white walls that made the few displayed pieces stand out even more. Several other pieces remained wrapped, leaned against each other and a few sculptures were scattered throughout.

An abstract painting in the back of the gallery caught her eye. Its swirling, contrasting shades of blues, pinks, ombre, white, and gold danced across the canvas, evoking images of the four seasons. There was something both calming and chaotic about it, and it resonated with her. She reached out, almost touching the canvas, when a voice broke the silence.

“Hello,” a woman’s voice echoed.

Casey turned to find a tall, slender woman headed her way. Her sea of dark curls streaked with golden highlights was piled on top of her head, with a few curls cascading down onto her flawless tawny skin. She was beautiful in a way that was almost surreal like a figure in a painting come to life. Her movements were fluid and graceful, and as her warm, dark eyes met Casey’s, she momentarily forgot how to speak.

“Oh!” Casey replied, taking a startled step backward. “I’m so sorry—I didn’t realize! I’ll come back when—”

“No, no, it’s fine,” the woman said with a melodic laugh. “I won’t make any friends in my new neighborhood if I shoo everyone away.” She wiped her hands on the paint-splattered apron tied around her waist and extended a hand. “I’m Diana. I'm an artist - and I own the gallery, too.”

Casey relaxed, taking the woman’s hand. “I’m Casey. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Is all this your work?”

Diana looked around the room with pride. “Most of it is, but not everything.” She nodded toward the painting Casey had been admiring. “Do you like that one? That is mine.”

“I do,” Casey replied, eyes returning to the painting. “It’s beautiful and captivating. From one angle, it’s so calming, but from another, it feels chaotic. It’s like it symbolizes… life.”

Diana’s smile widened. “That’s exactly what I was going for. Not everyone sees it right away. Are you an artist yourself? Or a collector, perhaps?”

“Me?” Casey laughed, shaking her head. “Oh, no! When it comes to art appreciation, I’m a novice at best. My husband is the connoisseur in the family. He may be a doctor, but art is woven into his DNA. He’s spent the better part of the last six years trying to bring me up to speed, but I'm afraid I still feel like a fish out of water around it.”

“Well, you’ve got a great eye,” Diana smiled. “And I love that you’ve taken an interest in something so important to your husband. That’s very special.”

“Thank you,” Casey smiled. “Actually, I just came from the Beacon Gallery. Our anniversary is Saturday, and I commissioned a painting for him. But I’ve got to admit…” She glanced back at the abstract. “I think he’d like this one even more.”

“Well, I certainly won’t stop you from buying another piece,” Diana winked, and Casey couldn’t help but be charmed.

“So, you’re new to Boston?” Casey asked.

“Yes,” Diana replied. “I have other galleries; my largest is in LA, and I have a smaller one near my home in Colorado. But I’ve wanted to establish an East Coast presence for a long time now. I came to the SoWa Winter Festiva last year and fell in love. Do you know when you can just feel from that start that it's going to be a perfect fit?"

"I do," Casey grinned. "When will you be opening? I can’t wait to see the rest of your work.”

“I officially open in two weeks, but I’m hosting a grand opening party next Saturday. It’s by invitation only, but I’d love for you and your husband to join us.”

Casey’s eyes lit up. “Really? Oh my God, he’ll be thrilled! Our anniversary is this Saturday—that would make the perfect addition to my gift.”

“I love that,” Diana said, clapping her hands together. “How many years are you celebrating?”

“Three."

“Ah, leather,” Diana playfully winked. “I assume you’ve already taken care of the traditional gift?"

Casey burst out laughing. “You knew that too quickly—you must be married yourself.”

“I am, and I have a crystal anniversary coming up. Fifteen years next month.”

“Fifteen?" Casey was stunned. "Wow, what did you do? Get married at ten?”

“I knew I liked you the moment I laid eyes on you, Casey," Diana chuckled. “But now, you're my best friend! I’m so glad you stopped by—you’re officially my first friend in my new town.”

“I consider that an honor,” Casey said, genuinely touched. Her eyes landed on a stack of brochures on a nearby table. “Mind if I take a few of these? I work at Edenbrook Hospital, and I could hand them out to some of my peers.”

“I've got a beautiful new friend, and she's helping me spread the word? This really is my lucky day,” Diana said, handing her a stack of brochures and two elegant invitations. “I really hope to see you both at the grand opening.”

“I wouldn't miss it!” Casey smiled, tucking the brochures and invitations into her bag. “And don’t be surprised if I stop by before then. I wouldn't mind another sneak peek."

“Please do!” Diana enthused. “I’d love the company, and you can tell me all the good places to go in the neighborhood. If I don't find a good iced matcha latte soon, I might lose my mind."

“Ah! I know just the place! I'll be sure to stop in if I see you here!"

Casey walked home with a sense of contentment. Her day had started with a bright opportunity and now, she felt like she found something special in that gallery... and in Diana. She couldn’t wait to tell Tobias all about it.

When she arrived home, she set the brochures on the kitchen counter, and her fingers brushed over the invitations as she thought about how much Tobias would love this surprise. It really was the perfect addition to her anniversary gift: a new place they could explore together and a night where they could dress up to boot! She already had the perfect dress in mind.

She carefully hid the invitations in a box toward the back of her closet, not far from the lingerie and a few leather items that would be making an appearance on Saturday, as well. The thought made her smile; she couldn’t wait to celebrate! As she glanced at the clock, she realized Tobias would be home in a few hours. She had so much to look forward to. As she stepped into the shower, allowing the steam and warm water to envelop her, she felt a peace that soothed her to her core. It had been a wonderful day filled with new opportunities, new connections, and the promise of even more to come. She was so fortunate, and she couldn’t wait for all that was ahead.

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