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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 · 2 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 · 1 year 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 · 2 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 · 1 month 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 · 3 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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cariantha · 2 years ago

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You literally posted this just as I was signing off to go to bed last night and I was so tempted to stay up and read it, but I had an early morning today and resisted. But there was no way I was going to be able to wait until I got home tonight, so I've been reading sections in between all my meetings today.

First, this chapter should have come with a warning like...

I'm usually screaming in my head at Ethan, but in this fic...Casey got a piece of my mind.😂 My heart just broke for him when she walked out of the room. And I was like "I know they love each other, but how are they going to get over this?" How does this decision not create some resentment or doubt in their relationship now?

It was great that the roomies finally spoke up about their suspicions. It was actually quite sweet to see how they all recognized how much Ethan cares for and adores her. I loved the paragraph where she was lost in thought and everything finally dawned on her. Thank goodness for that moment of clarity and for making it right!

And what a twist with the Declan blackmail! I didn't see that coming. It's so brilliant and clever! Can't wait to see what's in store now.

What Happened in Vegas: Chapter 5: ...and that's a promise.

Book: Open Heart (Book 2)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Casey MacTavish)

Rating: Teen

Warnings: Some suggestive content, not explicit; cursing; drinking.

Category: Series - AU

Words: Approx 4,900

Series Summary: Casey & her roommates are heading to Vegas, intent on taking down Declan Nash and Panacea, but this time, Dr. Ethan Ramsey is in tow.

Chapter 5: It wasn't planned... but they said I do. While Ethan finds he's OK with it, Casey's not so sure. Some time with her friends gives her perspective, but what does she decide. It seems everyone - including Ethan & Casey - is in for another surprise.

A/N: Hey, everyone; I hope you enjoy this installment. Some have asked how many chapters are left. I'm thinking 2 after this, but I've been known to be wrong before. lol I am participating in @choicesjanuarychallenge - Day 24 - all three fit in a way - Give, Take, Friends

Series Masterlist My Main Masterlist

There are moments in life when you can feel time come crashing to a halt. When everything seems to stand still, and you walk away a little different from the person you were just moments before. Casey had already experienced a couple of these moments since landing in Vegas. It’s not every day that you wake up to a marriage certificate with your name… that you don’t recall signing. Nor watch yourself recite the most loving, eloquent vows… but there is no recollection of saying them at all. That was plenty, she thought. She had enough of those moments to last her for a while. But fate, and Vegas, apparently had more in store.

She stood there, stupified. Her face unreadable, mouth agape, the only movement she could muster was looking between Ethan’s face and his hand gently wrapped around her wrist. Never in a million years did she expect him to react like this. She considered asking him to repeat himself, just to be sure… but she knew what she heard.

Ethan attempted to remain patient as he wordlessly watched her every move. Hoping for the slightest sign of how she’d eventually respond. He understood her shock, he was still shocked himself, to be honest, but he couldn’t deny nothing had ever felt so right. He didn’t have a single regret, but he knew her answer could change in an instant.

So he waited… allowing time to stay suspended… for so much longer than he thought possible. He was beginning to consider checking her for signs of shock when he felt her cold, clammy hand slap across his forehead without warning.

“Ow!” He grimaced. “What are you doing?”

“Checking you for a fever. It might be heat stroke.”

Pushing her hand away, he smiled. “Casey, I don’t have heat stroke.”

“Well… a stomach bug, perhaps? Norovirus! Everyone picks that up in places like this! I’m sure you must….”

“Casey,” he interrupted, taking both her hands in his, “I’m not sick. I just want an answer… will you stay married to me?”

Her nervous laughter filled the room, and her body quivered. She wondered if perhaps she was the one who was ill as the room began to sway. She pulled away from Ethan once more and began to engage in her new favorite hobby… pacing.

“If you’re not sick, then you must have lost control of all your senses!”

“Why?” Ethan demanded. “Why do you say that?”

“Stay married? Stay married?” She yelled. “You’ve gone mad!”

“I don’t think so.”

“Well, if you want to stay married, then in my professional opinion, you have!”

“Can you honestly tell me that you’ve never thought of us getting married?”

Still pacing, her hands began to flail. Flabbergasted, words couldn’t be found, but it didn’t stop her from trying. “Wha�� huh… that’s…. I…”

“You OK?” he teased, proud of himself for keeping his cool while Casey unraveled.

“NO! I’m not remotely OK! And whether I’ve thought of it or not is irrelevant! If we did everything we thought about, I might be president of the United States! Or… maybe a stripper at a club here in Vegas!”

His face scrunched in disbelief. “You what?”

“Don’t change the topic, Ethan!” She blurted. “The point is, we all think things at times… but that doesn’t mean we should act on them all!”

“So on a scale of one to ten, with one being… you’re now a stripper… and ten being you’re seated in the Oval Office, where does staying married to me rank?”

Casey’s eyes narrowed as her pacing ceased. About to comment on the ridiculousness of his words, she stopped herself when she realized he had only repeated what she had said. With a shake of her head, she sat beside him on the bed.

“Ethan,” she replied lovingly. “You made it very clear that you were not a fan of marriage. You weren’t even a fan of commitment… look at how long it took for us to get where we are now.”

“When did I tell you I was opposed to marriage?”

“The first time was when we tested the fMRI machine!”

“That was a hypothetical situation!”

“Then there was the time when Dr. Borgas and the nurse from 4… what’s her name?”

“Julia.”

“Yes! When Dr. Borgas and Julia got engaged, what did you say then?”

“I don’t remember?” He shrugged. “Congratulations?”

“Not to their face Ethan! What did you say when they walked away? You said, ‘God help that fool!’”

“Yeah, because in their case, it’s true! Everyone knows Julia is rebounding, and if that hot surgeon she was dating from Kenmore popped back in the picture, she’d forget about Borgas in an instant!”

“Wait!” Casey startled. “How do you know all this gossip? Who are you, and what have you done with Ethan Ramsey?”

Ethan smiled warmly, placing a loving arm around her shoulder. “You seem to forget who I have lunch with most days. With Naveen in my life, I’m going to know garbage whether I want to or not.”

“Fine,” she surrendered. “But answer one thing… before this trip… did you ever seriously think of asking me to marry you?”

“No,” he hesitated, “But….”

“But nothing! You had no intention of proposing to me, much less marrying me. That’s not the way to start something that’s supposed to be forever. I get it. Our emotions are all over the place right now, but when they settle down, you’ll realize this isn’t a good idea.”

“Well, I disagree.” He shifted so he could look her in the eyes. “You’re right. I never thought much of marriage. Was I planning on getting married now? No. But… when I heard us say our vows… without any preparation? Casey, the only way we could have said those words to each other, drunk as we were no less, is if they’re true.”

Casey’s eyes met his, and it appeared as if she was going to speak. But the emotions were too overwhelming, her mind too muddled. She lowered her eyes and turned away, but Ethan wasn’t about to let the moment pass. Reaching over, he stroked her cheek, turning her head back in his direction. Then, with a gentle buss on her forehead, his campaign began anew.

“Do you believe we spoke the truth?”

“Ethan,” she whispered, caressing his chin. “I know we did, but….”

“No buts! I never wanted to spend the rest of my life with anyone… but I want to do it with you. Besides, the idea of having annulment papers with our names on them, our names,” he swallowed, and Casey could see the pain in his azure eyes. “I never want to see that. Do you?”

She took a shuddering breath, her head and heart running in opposing directions. She couldn’t bring herself to confess how many times she had laid by his side, dreaming of this very future with him. It would be so easy to surrender to it. So easy to give in, but…

“It’s not like we’re breaking up. We’d just be going back to what we were yesterday, and what we were yesterday was great. We’re still in love, we’ll still be together… and if marriage is something you’re open to now, well, who knows what the future holds.”

“I can’t explain it, Casey. But now that we’re here… I don’t want to go back. I want you to be my wife. Today, tomorrow, always.”

Her face crumbled, and Ethan knew he had his answer. Still, he allowed hope to burn bright until he heard the words.

“Ethan,” she consoled. “I need… I … I just don’t see how this could work. We just had to stage an elaborate ruse to convince my friends we’re not dating… and now… we’re going to be married?”

Rising to her feet, she did her best not to meet his eyes.

“I’m… I’m sorry, Ethan, it’s just… we can’t.”

Deflated, his head fell, and his shoulders sank as he watched her walk to the door. He knew it was a long shot, and he knew she was making sense. Still, the bitter sting of rejection hurt as much as it ever did, which is why he never put himself in this place.

“Well…” he lamented. “I guess that’s it, then. I’ll make some calls to see how we can have this… undone.”

“I think it’s for the best. I… I should probably go and check in with my friends. I’m shocked Sienna hasn’t called out a search crew as it is already.”

“Yeah,” Ethan replied, his voice soft and broken. “I suppose you should.”

She turned back as she opened the door, and for a moment, he hoped that she had reconsidered.

“I’m sorry, Ethan. You know… nothing changes. I still love you. You know that, right?”

“I know,” he said with a painted smile. “I know.”

Wrapping her arms tightly around herself, Casey turned and walked away. Her mind was more muddled than ever as she stepped into the elevator. This changed nothing, right? They’d be just fine. Everything would be OK. But as she pushed the button for her floor, one thing became evident… she no longer had to fake being sad when she saw her friends. Because, now, she truly was.

~~~~~

Casey gingerly opened the door to the suite. It was much quieter than expected, and evidence of why presented itself very quickly. Bottle upon empty bottle lined the floor, the tables, the counters, and the general disarray made it clear they all had a night to remember. She was about to begin cleaning when she saw Bryce sprawled across the couch; Jackie gently snored not far away on the floor.

Couldn’t even make it to their rooms, she thought to herself. Knowing the noise would wake them, she abandoned gathering bottles and headed to her room. The thought of a hot shower and collapsing on her bed was beginning to fill her with glee. But just as she pulled her shirt over her head, there was a gentle tap at the door. Sighing, she put her shirt back on, delighted to see a friendly smile on the other side of the door.

“Hey, you’re up!” Casey smiled at Sienna.

“Yeah, couldn’t sleep well worrying about you.”

“I’m sorry, Si,” she faltered, filled with guilt. “I didn’t want to worry you. I hope you managed to have some fun.”

“Oh, we did!” Sienna assured. “But I decided to stay sober; I needed to keep an eye on everyone.”

“Yeah, I noticed an empty bottle or two out there,” Casey teased.

“It would have been much worse if I wasn't here!”

“Where do things stand regarding Panacea? Have you heard anything more?”

“All the information is in the right hands now. But they won’t keep us privy to the investigation. But all sources say this is not going to just go away.”

“I hope so,” Casey worried. “I just don’t trust these things until they’re over. I’ll feel better when I see Declan in a nice orange suit.”

“Yeah, orange is not his color,” Sienna giggled. “I understand being leery, but everyone says it will be a slam dunk. Honestly, the recording Ethan got from Charlotte just….” Sienna’s voice tapered when she realized what she had just said. “Oh, I’m… I’m so sorry, Casey… I didn’t mean to….”

“No, no!” Casey brushed it off with a wave of her hand. “You can say their names; it doesn’t change anything.”

“I know,” Sienna gently took her friend’s hand. “But if you’re hurting, the last thing I want to do is remind you.”

Casey hung her head. Lying to her best friend is something she would never get used to. Especially now when she could really use her advice. She considered letting it all out, telling her the whole truth, and letting the pieces fall where they may, but in the end, she didn’t say a word.

“Look, I don’t know what’s going on with you and Ethan,” Sienna whispered. “But I’m here if you ever need to talk.”

“I know, Si,” Casey sighed, “and I appreciate it, but Ethan and I are just… it’s so… complicated.”

A line appeared between Sienna’s brows.

“It always has been. But I really hoped….”

“Hoped what?”

“I really hoped, after we almost lost you, that you guys would find a way to work it out. I know he cares for you… very much… and I wish….”

“I know,” Casey smiled, squeezing her friend's hand tighter. “It’s just… I… I don’t know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything,” Sienna assured. “But if the day comes when you’re ready to talk. I’m here.”

The two friends embraced warmly just as a sluggish Bryce schlepped past Casey’s open door. Half-asleep, he stopped before her door. Rubbing his eyes, he managed to get up a pained grin.

“Ladies, you know better than this. If there’s going to be girl-on-girl action, you’re supposed to call me,” he laughed, but that quickly turned to a wince.

“You are such a jerk,” Casey laughed, hauling a pillow in his direction, and though it barely tapped him, he let out a howl when it hit. “Rough night?”

“The night was terrific,” he insisted. “The hangover… not so much.”

“Well,” Casey sprung out of bed. “Luckily for all of you… I have all the ingredients for my handy-dandy hangover cure in the kitchen!”

“You do?” He marveled.

“Did you think I was coming to Vegas, of all places, without? Be reasonable, Lahela.”

As she strode past him on the way to the kitchen, he gently grabbed her wrist.

“All joking aside,” he asked with sincerity. “Are you doing OK?”

“I am,” Casey smiled sadly. “Everything will be OK… one way or another.”

“That’s my girl,” Bryce grinned. “Now, please go make your buddy Bryce that remedy before he dies.”

“I’m on it!”

~~~~~

Several hours later, the gang was gathered around a table at International Smoke. The atmosphere was so light and festive that Casey sometimes forgot her troubles for a moment or two… but they always came back. Still, she was enjoying one of the best steaks she had ever had.

“Now, this is the way to celebrate!” Elijah enthused, pouring a glass of champagne.

“I don’t even know how you can even look at that stuff!” Aurora soured. “I’m never drinking again!”

Across the table, Jackie rolled her eyes with a scoff before taking the bottle from Elijah’s hand, “Amateurs!”

Casey looked around to ensure no one was in earshot, then spoke softly to her friends. “I’d offer a toast, but should we even be talking about… it… publicly yet?”

“The ball may be in motion, but I doubt anyone knows it’s happening yet,” Jackie shrugged. “So it may be better to keep it quiet for now.”

“Yeah,” Bryce agreed. “Unfortunately, I know a thing or two about these sorts of investigations go down. Right now, the gruesome twosome is likely in the dark. They’ll want them to slip up. But don’t worry, they’ll get theirs in the end.”

“In that case,” Casey raised a glass as Aurora cringed. “Oh, Aurora!” Casey laughed, “just toast with water! As I was saying… let’s toast to a successful trip. We all got what we came for.”

“Hear, hear!” Elijah cheered.

“I’ll drink to that!” Sienna agreed.

Bryce took a sip of his champagne, but his eyes stayed focused on Casey. “But, did we?” he asked.

Casey looked at him nervously. “So, you don’t think this will stick?”

“No, it will. I’m talking about you… did you get all you wanted from this trip?”

“Sure,” she said, taking a si of champagne. “I’m here for the same reason as you.”

“We’re you?” He asked pointedly. “Casey, you’re among friends; you know we’d never judge… and your secret would be safe with us.”

Casey’s eyes nervously darted around the table, trying to determine what each person knew.

“You’re kind of the worst-kept secret in Edenbrook,” Aurora agreed. “But when asked, we all insist you’re just close coworkers…. But it’s not like we didn’t know better.”

“Yeah, we’ll always have your back, Case,” Jackie agreed.

“Guys,” she sputtered nervously, “what are you talking about… what do you think we….”

“Casey, you were with your med school friends last night to get your mind off Ramsey. We know that,” Elijah concluded.

“Oh, uh… yeah, but… it’s not like that at all… between us… it’s just that….”

“You should really give him another chance,” Sienna said softly.

“What!?!”

“He was just trying to get information, Casey… he didn’t want to hurt you.”

“Yeah,” Aurora agreed. “And you did say you were OK with it in advance. We can’t blame you if it was harder to witness than you thought, but we can’t blame him either.”

“Guys, why are you doing this?” Casey asked.

“Because we don’t like seeing you sad,” Sienna offered.

“We called him to see if he wanted to join us last night,” Elijah offered. “And Bryce called him again today to see if he’d come to dinner today. I mean, if anyone deserves to celebrate, it’s him.”

“Damn straight!” Bryce insisted. “If I had to cozy up to that snake, I’d need all the booze in the world to wash that memory away, and I’d want the reward for being tortured.”

“But he wouldn’t come either time,” Elijah continued. “The only thing he was worried about is you. Especially today.”

“And it’s not the first time,” Sienna chimed in. “We all saw him at your trial last year. We saw him the night of the attack; the man seriously cares about you, Casey.”

“I mean, we have eyes,” Aurora chuckled. “Look, he dated my aunt on and off for years, and I never saw the look he has on his face when he’s around you.”

“Guys… why are you doing this?” Casey asked.

“Because we know he’s a good man,” Jackie replied. “And we know you’re happy when you’re with him. Hell, he’s even willing to subject himself to this bunch of losers….”

“Hey!” Bryce hollered. “Speak for yourself!”

“That was geared toward you, meathead!” she scoffed before turning back to Casey. “I’m just saying take your time and think. Don’t make any rash moves, OK?”

If anyone noticed Casey choke on her drink, they didn’t show it. Rash moves? If they only knew. But her friend's words affected her more than she let on. And thoughts of their time together began flooding her mind. Whenever life seemed at its darkest, he came through for her… and she did the same in return. No, they hadn’t planned on getting married… never even discussed it… but she knew she’d spend forever at his side as long as he wanted her there, and he just asked her to stay there, forever, as his wife… and she said no and ran away. She couldn’t stop seeing the look on Ethan’s face when she ran away from his room, no matter how hard she tried. She wanted this man. She fought for this man when he tried everything possible to push her away. Casey MacTavish was no glutton for punishment. She did it because she knew. She knew they were inevitable… they were meant to be. Now, fate stepped in and delivered them a surprise… and he wanted to stay married to her. He wanted her to be his wife… his forever. He loved her that much, and she ran away.

“Casey,” Sienna said, waving a hand in front of her face. “Did you hear a word we said?”

“Did… did I? No!” she exclaimed. “I didn’t hear a single word, but… I’ve got… I’ve got to go!”

She took off without further explanation, and Bryce raised his glass once more. “To Casey… go get it, MacTavish!”

~~~~~

She didn’t call him; it was nothing she’d want to discuss on the phone. But she needed to see him as much as she needed to breathe. She ran down the hallway and into a waiting elevator, cursing silently to herself as it stopped on every floor. When a tour bus full of enthusiastic senior citizens began piling in, Casey reached her breaking point.

“Excuse me,” she yelled, pushing through the crowd. “I’m sorry, I need to get off!” she insisted, making it out just before the doors shut.

She was only four floors away; she could handle that! She took to the stairs taking two at a time in her haste to reach Ethan. The smile on her face doubled when she reached his floor. Rushing down the hallway, she ignored the stares of other guests as she whizzed past them. They didn’t matter… nothing did… except getting to him.

Finally, she reached his door and knocked furiously, but there was no answer. She knocked again, smoothing her unkempt hair nervously as she waited… still, nothing.

“Ethan!” She hollered with one final rap on the door. “Ethan, it’s me! Open up!”

Damn it! She should have called. Then a lightbulb went off… he gave her his room key! She fumbled in her purse, but it was nowhere to be found.

“Come on!” she groaned, pushing lipsticks, coins, and receipts to the side, but she still came up empty.

Discouraged, she was about to walk away when the door finally opened to reveal Ethan, dripping wet, wrapped only in a plush white towel, standing on the other side.

“Casey! What’s going….”

“Shhh!” she pushed her way through the door and locked it behind her. “Shhh. Don’t talk. I need you to listen.”

“I’m listening….”

“So, you think we could make it work?”

“Make what work, exactly?”

“If we stay married… it would still have to be a secret… right… it could still jeopardize us….”

“Maybe initially, I haven’t given it much thought… since we’re getting an annulment… I don't see the need for us to waste energy on that."

“Well, you better start using energy on that. We’ll be back in Boston tomorrow, and we need to figure out how to make this work because you’re my husband, Ethan Ramsey, and there is no way I’m ever letting you go.”

“Wait,” he gasped, eyes bulging and his smile shining bright. “Are you serious? You don’t want the annulment… you want... to stay married?”

“I’m serious as a heart attack!” She reached up and ran her fingers through his damp, tousled hair, gently smiling as his bewilderment turned to delight. “You’re right… it wasn’t planned… but nothing about us ever was, yet, it’s perfect. I love you… so much… how could I ever want to undo this?”

They stared into each other's eyes for what seemed like an eternity, then Casey grew impatient. Pulling him close, her lips crashed against his and he pulled tighter than she ever thought possible. Their kisses, which began as sparks, now burst into flames, engulfing them as their hands grasped passionately at each other. Casey could feel him smiling against her lips, and when she pulled back, she found his towel had fallen to the floor.

“Well, look at you,” she smiled as her eyes raked over his body. Biting at her lower lip, she leered at the man who was now truly, truly hers. “I am one lucky woman!”

“And I’m one lucky man,” he grinned, taking her hand. “You're sure about this?”

“I’ve never been more sure of anything. I love you, Ethan.”

“Well, then, there’s only one more thing to be done.”

“Oh yeah,” she teased. “What’s that?”

“We haven’t consummated this union yet… and being that this is Vegas… is the marriage even legal if we haven’t?”

“I’m not sure,” she giggled, her hands running over his muscular chest. “But we wouldn’t want to jeopardize the legality, now… would we?”

“Absolutely not. But there’s a problem.”

“Oh?”

“Your clothes, Casey. They’re still on.”

“Oh, that,” she laughed, pulling away and tugging each item away. “I can take care of that, but quick!”

Ethan’s head tilted, eagerly appreciating every inch of skin she bared. “Hmm… anxious? Not going to show me those amateur striptease moves you dream of?”

“Of course I am!” She said, pushing him onto the bed. “But you’re my husband now, Dr. Ramsey. You have a life of stripteases and lap dances waiting for you. But right now… I need to consummate this thing! FAST!"

“I really am the luckiest man on earth,” he said with a kiss. “I love you, wife….”

“I love you, husband. Now… consummate me!”

~~~~~

"What do you mean they know!?" He ignored the stinging of his hand as it slammed into the mahogany table, the ice in their drinks rattling in its wake. "How the hell do they know!"

"I... I'm not certain... but I have a lot friends, in a lot places, and when they hear things that involve me… they make sure I know.”

"Good! Then your friends… they can fix this. Right?” he scoffed. "Isn't that how it works?"

Picking her glass up from the table, she took a long sip. Silently closing her eyes, she centered herself before speaking again.

"I'm afraid that's not how it works. If it was just a story at the New York Times, I could have it quashed within an hour. But did you miss the part where I said it’s already in the hands of the Justice Department? I have influence, Declan, but not that much influence!”

“Jesus fucking Christ,” Declan tugged at his cropped hair as he walked in frantic circles. Charlotte was doing her best to keep her cool, but she could feel panic settling in. Turning away from Declan, she stepped onto the balcony and lit a cigarette. But he was quick at her heels.

“How did they find out?” he demanded.

Charlotte took a long drag of her cigarette as she surveyed the Vegas landscape. She didn't slip up. She could count on one hand the number of times she had slipped up since she was in grade school... and never like this. And for what? A man! Ashamed, she turned away.

“Wait a minute….” Declan scowled in an accusatory tone. “You were with Ramsey!”

“Declan, there is no way to know if that had anything to do with this!”

“Oh, sure! It’s all a coincidence! You’ve been so damn desperate to get into his ridiculously long trousers you lost your damn mind. Now… what did you tell him!”

“I didn’t tell him….”

“WHAT did you tell him!”

“I don’t remember. I had a lot to drink, and I don’t remember! OK?”

Declan collapsed onto a settee behind him, his head falling into his hands.

“You’re right,” Charlotte lamented. “You’re right… he has to be involved. When the hell have we ever even seen him at one of these conferences! He came here for a reason, and like an idiot, I fell right into his trap!”

“I told you… you should have fucked the cabana boy, Char… get it out of your system, but no.. no, you’ve got to….” Declan raised his head, a look of wonder in his eyes. “Repeat what you just said?”

“That I’m an idiot? That I fell right into his trap? You know I already feel like shit. Do you need to rub it in?”

“No! No! Not that part! When did we ever see Ethan at a conference like this?” Declan’s eyes were glowing now as he reached for his phone.

“What are you getting at… I don’t know how that….”

“I have,” he interrupted. “Once, I saw him at a conference… in Miami.”

“Yes, he was there to score a cure for Naveen. He always has a reason… which is why I should have known better!”

“That wasn’t his only reason,” Declan handed Charlotte his phone, a devious grin on his face. “Only scroll right, babe. I wouldn’t want you to see what’s on the other side.”

Ethan and Casey on the balcony… talking, laughing, then a few where his hand cupped her cheek, a kiss, a stare, Casey straddles him on a chair….

“Holy shit!” Charlotte exclaimed. “You have pictures of him fucking her?”

“Well, not exactly, but it seems to be that was implied once they closed that patio door. After all, the good Dr. Ramsey was sharing a room with his nubile little intern.”

“That sanctimonious piece of shit,” Charlotte grumbled. “Always acting like he’s so high and mighty. But why didn’t you do anything with these sooner?”

“Why would I?” He shrugged. “We got the contract with Edenbrook. Once I had that in hand, getting a dozen more top hospitals to sign on was easy. I just kept these for insurance… and now… I think I’m ready to cash this policy in.”

“Hello!” Charlotte mocked, knocking her fist against Declan’s head. “Earth to little Deccy… what part of it is with the freaking DOJ did you miss! Those photos are lovely souvenirs, but they’re not giving us any leverage now.”

“Oh, no shit. I will be on the phone with my attorney in ten seconds and suggest you do the same. That… or escaping to a lovely island with no extradition treaty… they’re our only avenues of protection right now. But… if that son of a bitch and his little piece of ass are responsible for taking us down… I’m going to make sure they fall right beside us.”

Charlotte poured two glasses of whisky, and their glasses clinked after she handed one to him. “I love the smell of revenge in the morning. And… if we can watch their reputations and careers destroyed aboard a yacht in the Maldives… better yet.”

“You know, I think I have a call or two to make before I call my attorney. I want to guarantee the little lovebirds a rough landing back in Boston.”

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