#ethan x casey au

[jerzwriter]

What Happened in Vegas Chapter 4 - We did...

Book: Open Heart (Book 2)

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

Rating: Teen

Warnings: Some suggestive content, limited/not explicit.

Category: Series - AU

Words: 4,575

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 4: Their hangover was cured quickly when they woke up to shocking news that neither could recall, so what happens next? Ethan & Casey retrace their steps in hopes of something sparking a memory and make some revelations along the way.

A/N: Hey everyone, the dog, the child, and Kevin McCarthy were not stopping me from finishing this today! 😂 Quick note, the laws regarding getting married in Vegas are pretty lax, but you can't merely walk into a chapel and get married, but I took creative liberties. I hope you enjoy the story. @choicesjanuarychallenge - Day 4 - Self-Reflection

Artwork for this chapter by the lovely @/artbyainna.

Catch up here

"MARRIED?"

Moving wasn’t a consideration, so he didn’t even try; after all, it felt as if his bones had turned into lead. Shock was apparent in his voice, but his face was devoid of emotion. Perhaps his flesh was now immobile, too. After this news, anything was possible.

MARRIED.

With the two doctors rendered speechless, the word hung in the air, clanging like a chime in Casey’s ears as she frantically paced the room.

"I know!" She finally replied with a nervous giggle and a racing heart. “It can’t be! It’s impossible! Right?”

Panicking, she silently prayed that this was a joke. After so much turmoil, she and Ethan were finally in a good place. Yes, they had to remain a secret for now, but they were in love and happy. She was confident they had a future together. Yet she was intimately acquainted with every brick she had to dismantle in the wall that had surrounded Ethan’s heart, and she was certain this would have him rushing to rebuild.

"We were so drunk!" she insisted. "They wouldn't issue a marriage license to anyone in that condition…. Would they?"

"I… I…," he stammered. "It is Vegas."

"Look, it’s OK," she attempted to assure. “Everything is fine. Like you said, it’s Vegas… right? Vegas. We can’t possibly be the first couple to drunkenly get hitched. If you can get married in a day, I’m sure you can get an annulment in a day, too, right?”

“I…I’m not sure it works that way.”

“It has to!” She yelled, pulling her phone from her purse. “I’m Googling it right now! You should too.”

But Ethan still couldn't bring himself to move, and the longer he remained in this comatose state, the more unraveled Casey became.

“Ethan!” She yelled, finally causing him to jump. “Take out your goddamn phone!”

“Casey, I think we should….”

“GOOGLE IT!!!”

He knew Casey was right; action was needed. And the first thing he needed to do was to get his girlfriend… uh… wife?… to stop hyperventilating. Gently grasping her shoulder, he pulled her close and kept her in place despite her attempts to squirm away.   

“Casey, Casey!” he hollered. “You have to take a breath! We’ll figure this out, but panicking won’t solve anything. Who knows if this is even legitimate?”

“I don’t know,” she worried. “It looks legit.”

“Does it say where this took place?”

“At the Blue Bell Chappel.”

“OK, we have a starting point. Let me call them.”

Casey sat at the foot of the bed as he rapidly dialed. 

“Hello, you have reached the Blue Bell Chappel of Love… if you’re hearing this message, we’re making someone’s dreams come true….”

“Or maybe their nightmare!” Ethan muttered.

“Please leave your name and number, and we’ll call you back as soon as they say I do!”

As Ethan left a detailed message just as Casey let out a scream. Clenching his eyes, Ethan turned around with trepidation.

“That can’t be good. What else did we do? Rob a bank? Take a hostage?”

“No. But apparently, you sprung for Blue Bell’s triple diamond package because our ceremony was recorded.”

“Recorded? How… how do you know that?”

Casey tossed her phone in his direction like it was a hot potato. “Because it’s posted on their website!”

“It’s post… it’s posted….”

“Not only posted, but we’re the freaking ‘Couple of the Week’!”

“No,” he breathed. Moments away from hyperventilating, he fought to keep his composure. “Did you see it?”

“NO!” she shrieked. “NO! We have to have it taken down! What if someone else sees this?”

Ethan pinched the bridge of his nose, relieved to hear his phone ring.

“Ethan Ramsey,” he answered.

“Hello, Mr. Ramsey. This is Edna from the Blue Bell Chapel. You left a….”

“EDNA! I think… I think I may have gotten married there last night.”

“You think?” Edna quipped. “I’d assume that’s the sort of thing someone would remember, don’t ya think?”

“Not if they are completely inebriated! And if your establishment actually allowed us to be wed in that state, I assure you, I will have a lawyer on this.”

“Mr. Ramsey, I…”

“DOCTOR Ramsey!” he corrected.

“Not the time to worry about your title, Ethan!” Casey scolded. “Just get them to take the ceremony down!”

“The cer, the cer… YES! I need you to take that down IMMEDIATELY! I insist!”

“You insist?” Edna asked. “Last night you insisted we put it up! You said you wanted the whole world to see it!”

“I WAS DRUNK, EDNA! And now, sober Ethan Ramsey is telling you, you NEED to get rid of that recording!”

“Fine… I’ll delete it.”

“NO!” Ethan gasped. “I said take it down from your webpage… I didn’t say delete it!”

“Why are you so… Wait, what’s going on here? One of you isn't married to someone else, are you? Cause we got laws about those things. Even here in Vegas!”

“No! I’m not married. Well, I might be now. I… I don’t know.”

“Listen, why don’t you come down here? You can watch the ceremony, and maybe being here will jog your memory. But I’m telling you: you and your pretty lady sure weren’t acting like a couple who didn’t want to get married. Come on down. It can’t hurt.”

“I guess it’s a start. We’ll head over now.”

Casey stood next to him with pleading eyes. “Tell me it's all a misunderstanding. We're not married, right?”

“It… it appears we are. Why don’t we head down there, try to piece this thing together… and take it from there?”

Casey diverted her eyes, nodding slowly as she felt the gravity of the situation sinking in. Ethan slipped his hand in hers and started toward the door, but she pulled him back.

“Wait!” she blurted. “Before we go… I have to ask...”

“What is it?”

“Ethan, you’re… you’re not going to break up with me, are you?” she asked with a quivering voice.

“What?” he asked, brow furrowed in confusion as she stood, practically shaking, before him.

“I don’t remember this either. You know that, right? I wasn’t trying to trick you into anything….I hope you know...."

“Casey!” He cupped her face in his hands and brushed away an errant tear. “The thought never even crossed my mind. And why would I break up with you?”  

“Because you were terrified to even date me, and marriage… you don’t even believe in marriage. But you know I do. So I don’t want you to get spooked and call things off.”

Ethan's heart sank, and those bones he believed had turned to lead now dissolved into jelly. His body slumped as guilt coursed through his veins. Of course she was frightened; given their history, she’d be a fool not to be.

“Casey, baby,” he whispered. “Whatever happened last night, we were both there, we’re both responsible, and we’ll handle it together. I don’t blame you, and I’m not going anywhere.”

“Are you sure?” she asked, pulling him close.

“One hundred percent. I love you. It took me a long time to admit it, I know, but I am exactly where I want to be. You don’t have to worry…” he smiled gently. “… not about me leaving you, anyway.”

“OK,” she smiled. “I feel a little better.”

“Good. So, can we go?”

“Yes! Please!”

~~~~~

Though they never let go of each other’s hand, the ride to the chapel was filled with tension. Nary a word was uttered until the silence was broken by a stream of unladylike curses falling from Casey’s lips. 

“It's Sienna,” she mouthed as she answered her phone. As cheerful as could be, she was about to deliver another stellar performance. It may have taken a little work, but she convinced her inquisitive friend that she was fine... just needed to clear her head, so being with her med school friends was a great distraction. Once she assured her she’d be back for the roommate's celebratory dinner, Sienna relented. But while her best friend may have felt better, Casey only felt guilt. 

“I hate lying to her,” Casey sighed.

“I understand, but these are extraordinary circumstances….”

“I don’t mean just now,” Casey snapped. “I’ve hated lying to her about us all along.”

He lifted her hand to his lips and gently kissed her knuckles. He was about to impart some Ramsey-level wisdom when Casey gasped.

 “Oh my God! I remember this,” she screamed. “Driver! Are we near the chapel?”

“Sure are! Just a couple of blocks away.”

“Ethan, we have to get out!”

“Here? Are you insane? It’s 102 in the shade today!”

“I don't care! I remember that taco stand from last night. We were driving by, and I said I was hungry and wanted a taco.”

Ethan’s eyes went wide. “You did! And I told the driver to let us out… he hesitated because the security guard told him to make sure we got to our hotel….”

“…. but we insisted we were sober enough to walk the rest of the way! I don’t care if it’s hot. We have to get out!”

Ethan shaded his eyes as he exited the cab, looking for anything that looked familiar.   “Some of this is coming back to me.”

“Me too! Now, buy me a taco.”

He turned to her with a scrunched nose, “Are you serious?”

“As a heart attack! If we’re reenacting this thing, it’s go big or go home. Now, get out your wallet and buy me a taco!”

“Considering that we apparently got married last night, I think we already went big, but sure,” he grabbed his wallet. “What kind of taco would you like.”

One hand cradled her elbow as the other rubbed her chin. She studied the menu as intensely as she had studied for the MCATs years before. After several minutes passed, Ethan’s patience was wearing thin.

“Casey! There are eight choices! How long do you need?”

“Ethan! I take my tacos very seriously!”

“I understand,” he exasperated. “But considering the other rash decisions we’ve made in the past 24 hours, this choice seems to pale in comparison.”

Both of their heads turned to the chuckling old man working behind the counter.

“Is something funny?” Ethan asked.

“It’s just that you two sound exactly like you did last night!”

“Wait!” Casey yelled. “Did you serve us last night?”

“Sure did,” he grinned, "and you were just as undecided then.”

“Was I just as irritated?” Ethan smirked.

“You? Nah! You were clinging to her and slobbering all over her shoulder. I don’t think you had a care in the world.”

Ethan ran a hand down his reddened face. “Oh, my God.”

“Oh really?” Casey teased. “So he was being nicer to me then, was he?”

“You can say that,” the man nodded.

“Do you remember what I ended up ordering?”

“You went with the fish taco. And then,” he hesitated, his cheeks turning a bright shade of crimson. “You know what… nevermind.”

“NO!” Casey insisted. “Please! See, we don’t remember everything that happened last night, and we’re trying to retrace our steps, hoping something will jog our memory. Please! We can take it, whatever it is.”

He seemed to squirm as he rubbed the back of his neck, carefully eyeing Ethanto to gauge his potential reaction. Ever the diagnostician, Ethan picked up on it at once and moved to reassure him.

“Please, it could really help us. I don’t care what it is.”

“Well,” he quivered, “you said that you were usually the one who wanted a fish taco, but you didn’t get it at a taco stand….”

Casey held up her hand, unsure if she wanted to laugh or cry. “OK, STOP! Stop! Say no more! We get the idea.” 

Ethan quietly slipped on his sunglasses as if they would help him disappear.

“That… doesn’t sound like something I’d say…” he muttered.

“Well, you weren’t exactly sober, pal.”

Ethan turned to Casey in desperation. “Have you settled on a fish taco, so we can leave with a shred of our dignity?”

“It’s Vegas,” Casey shrugged, “no one really has dignity.”

He slapped a few bills on the counter, wondering if it was possible to die of mortification “One fish taco, please!” He couldn’t get away fast enough.

With Casey completely engrossed with her taco, they walked side-by-side to the chapel.

“You know,” she mumbled with a full mouth and messy hands. “On the way back, we should pick up more of these. They’re delicious!”

Ethan shook his head with a chuckle. “Only you would make tacos a priority right now.”

“Hey, when all else fails… tacos are always there for me,” she grinned. But the grin disappeared when she found herself in front of a towering sigh. “Oh, shit. The scene of the crime!”

“The Blue Bell Chapel,” Ethan groaned. “You know, I never pictured myself getting married, but if I ever would have, this is the last place it would be.”

“Well, like the old man said, you weren’t exactly sober. In fact…”

“In fact, what? Do you remember something?”

“YES!” She blurted.  “We were walking here, arm-in-arm, and you were laughing… you kept saying how much you loved Vegas, and I reminded you that you hated Vegas.”

“… and I said I didn’t hate it tonight… then we kissed….”

“… and you stumbled and nearly dragged me down with you! We almost crashed into a bride and groom running out of the chapel!”

“YES!” Ethan exclaimed. “And while you apologized, you tripped... and your taco fell to the ground….”

“An absolute tragedy!”

“You apologized to the bride again, and she said not to worry but asked you to take a picture!”

“I took the picture,” Casey said, “I can only imagine how bad it was considering I could  barely see straight.”

“Then we waved them off together! I think…” Ethan snapped his fingers.

“You think what?” Casey demanded.

“I may have thrown popcorn at them as they departed.”

“You were definitely drunk! But I remember they were such a cute couple!”

“OK… I’m remembering….”

“Oh my God, so am I!”

Casey couldn’t contain her excitement as the car drove away. Waving frantically, she jumped up and down, coming perilously close to falling. 

“They are so cuuuuuuute! Ethan, aren’t they cuuuuuuute?”

But Ethan had lost all interest in the departing couple. His eyes were fixed on his girlfriend’s… uh… assets… as she bounced away.

“Uh… yeah, cute! So… so cute….” he sputtered.

“Are we that cute, Ethan?” Casey asked, falling into his arms with a grimace. “I don’t know if we’re that cute.”

“What? We’re cuter!” He insisted. 

“We are?”

“Yes… and… and sexier, too!” Lifting his arms to show off his muscles, he spun around on unsteady legs. “Look at me! This… is… sexy!”

Casey only stopped laughing long enough to wolf-whistle, then she shimmied seductively in his direction. "Am I sexy too?" she asked.   Ethan didn’t answer with words, but the lecherous smile on his lips as his hands began to run over her every curve provided all the answers she needed.

An elderly couple passing by appeared to be equal parts entertained and repulsed by the tipsy couple. The man laughed and yelled, “Get a room!”

“But have him put a ring on that hand first,” his wife winked, and they were on their way.

Casey let out a long sigh. “I did make it entirely too easy for you, didn’t I?”

“What do you mean?” Ethan asked, still pawing at her.

“I was always there when you wanted me… always waiting,” she slurred. Pulling back, she grabbed his face and ran her hands through his hair. “But I loved you, Ethan,” she said far more earnestly. “I loved you all along.”

He looked at her intently, with a thoughtful expression on his face. He couldn’t get over how beautiful she was, not only tonight but always. And not just physically, but in every possible way. She waited for him. She was willing to lie to her best friend for him. And she loved him like he’d never been loved before.

“Ethan,” Casey laughed, shaking him back to reality. “What are you thinking?”

“Marry me.”

Casey appeared shocked but was certain it was a joke. “Sure, let’s just mosey in here and get hitched.” she laughed. She took his hand and began to drag him away from the chapel, but he tugged at her arm, stopping her in her tracks.

“That’s what I'm suggesting. Let's do it."

She looked at him as if he had lost his mind, even in an inebriated state. She knew this didn’t sound like Ethan.

“OK, jokes over,” she smirked. “Let’s go.”

“I’m not joking,” he insisted. “I love you… you love me… I never want to be without you, and look!” He pointed dramatically toward the chapel door. “We stopped here. Not in front of a burger joint, or a strip club, or a casino, but here. It’s a sign, Casey.”

“You’re serious?”

“I am,” he suddenly dropped to both knees and let out a small yelp. "I’m serious. Marry me, Casey!”

Her confused look on her face disappeared, replaced with a smile that rivaled the lights on The Strip; she pulled him to his feet and flung her arms around his neck. 

“Let’s do it!” She beamed. “Yes! Let’s do it!”

“So,” Casey swallowed. “That was how it happened.”

“It appears so.”

“But, we were so drunk," she whined. "Aren’t there laws against marrying people in that condition?”

“It’s Vegas, Case. I don’t think that matters much.”

“Well,” she swallowed. "Let’s go inside and face the music… or at least Edna.”

~~~~~

Casey clung to Ethan’s arm as they entered. Both were rendered speechless by the blend of gauche Grecian and Baroque décor surrounding them. 

“I swear to God, if a cupid comes flying out at us,” Ethan grumbled.

“You’re right," Casey laughed. "This is the last place on earth that you’d get married.”

“I’d assume the same would be true for you?” he asked with a raised brow. 

“Nah, I’m way more fun than you. This was always a possibility for me.”

They did their best to keep the mood light, but they were disappointed. The tacky décor may have garnered laughs, but it didn’t spark a single memory. Luckily for them, their conversation with Edna did glean some insight. For example, Ethan had, in fact, sprung for the triple diamond package, as Casey had suspected.

“You insisted… only the best for your bride,” Edna assured. “In fact, I was going to call you two today. You were in such a hurry to get out of here you left this behind.”

Casey reached over the counter and took a small blue gift bag from Edna’s hands.

“What is this?”

“All part of the package. Your wedding album and a link to the recording of your ceremony… don’t worry… it’s passcode protected now; the passcode’s in there. There is also a gift certificate for a cake from Sinful Sweets.”

“I do like cake,” Casey replied, almost sadly.

Edna looked between the two inquisitively. 

“You know, for what it’s worth, you two are the last couple I expected to see back here with buyer remorse… and I’ve been doing this for a long time. I thought you were really in love….”

“We are in love,” Casey defended. “We just…”

“… weren’t planning on getting married,” Ethan finished.

“Well, if you were drunk, the state of Nevada allows you to get an annulment pretty easily. Given your call this morning, I also threw a pamphlet with information on annulments in your bag."

"Do you toss that into these bags often," Ethan simpered.

"You'd be surprised. But you know… sometimes life brings us to the place we are meant to be, even if we don’t realize it.”

“And sometimes people get drunk and make rash decisions,” Ethan countered. “But thank you for your help.”

~~~~~

After another somber taxi drive deposited them back at their hotel. They entered separately, careful not to be seen together. Once they were both inside his room, they kicked off their shoes and fell into bed. The excess alcohol from last night and the emotional shock of today were beginning to take their toll.  

“We should have stopped and gotten our free wedding cake on the way back,” Casey lamented. 

“Do you think of anything other than food?” Ethan asked.

“Sure,” she rolled over and faced him with a smile. “I think of you.”

She could see the tension leaving Ethan’s face with her words; reaching over, he placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. 

“I know we’re tired, but I suppose we should watch this thing.”

“I suppose,” Casey replied nervously. “I have a feeling it’s going to be a hot mess.”

“I’m not expecting to see the two of us at our best,” he concurred.

“As long as we’re not like Ross and Rachel. I don't want to see Ethan scribbled across your forehead or kitty whiskers on you.”

“And I'd like to be the only one with a mustache,” he chuckled.

They both shifted, leaning against the pillows as Ethan took out his phone for them to watch.  

“Let’s get this over with,” Casey mumbled.

“Before we do…” he said, taking her hand. “I want you to know I love you, and no matter what we see on this, it doesn’t change that.”

Casey let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding, then reached over for a tender kiss.

“I love you, too, and nothing will change that. But, let’s pull off the bandaid and watch this thing.”

They expected the worst, and it sure started out that way.

Casey tipsily walked down the aisle, bordered by large Grecian columns fashioned of the finest plastic money could buy. Clutching her bouquet in both hands, she teetered on her heels after every few steps. But there was no denying the enormous grin on her face.

“That’s what I get for doing this without my parents,” she sighed.

When she reached Ethan, the two of them broke into a fit of giggles. Stopping only when Ethan spoke.

“You look really, really cute,” he sputtered, causing the two of them to laugh even more.

“Oh, God, this is going to be painful,” he moaned. But Casey shushed him as the officiant began to speak.

“Dearly Beloved, we come together today to join this man and this woman in matrimony. Is there anyone present who knows of a reason why this marriage should not take place?”

“Pffft,” Casey chuckled. “You’re the only one here! If you don’t object, I think we’re good.”

“Uh, you also have me,” Edna hollered from behind. “You need a witness, ya know.”

“So, do you have any reason why we shouldn’t be wed?” Ethan asked.

“Nope. Not a one.”

“Good,” he turned to the officiant with a stern glare. “Then let’s get on with it.”

“Oh, boy…” Casey muttered.

“Do you, Ethan, take this woman to be your wife, to live together in matrimony, to love her, to honor her, to comfort her, and to keep her in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do,” he replied, with the softest smile on his lips.

“And do you, Casey, take this man to be your husband, to live together in matrimony, to love her, to honor her, to comfort her, and to keep her in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do,” she beamed.

“Then repeat after me, I Ethan, take you, Casey….”

“Wait a minute, wait a minute, wait a minute,” Ethan interrupted. “I’m sorry, I can’t do this.”

“You… you what?” Casey frowned.

“No! Not the wedding, we can do the wedding; but I can’t marry you without saying something first. Casey, you know how much I love you; at least, I hope you do. You came into my life unexpectedly, and you were such a pain in the ass, but that’s honestly the best part about you. That strong, spunky, never give up attitude is what got us here… it certainly wasn’t me. If I had let you go, I would have spent the rest of my life regretting it and living with what a fool I had been. I love you, Casey; thank you for making me see what my heart knew from the start… that you are worth any risk.”

“Awww,” Casey cried, instinctively leaning forward to kiss him.

But that was met with the officiant loudly clearing his throat. “We’re not at the point where you can kiss yet,” he scolded.

“Oops! Sorry!” Casey apologized.

“Again… repeat after me, I Ethan, take you, Casey….”

“Wait, wait, wait!” Casey interrupted.

“Again?” the officiant growled.

“Excuse me!” Ethan shouted. “I paid for the triple diamond package, so if my bride wants to interrupt, she can interrupt.”

The officiant looked back to Edna, who merely shrugged. “He’s got a point!”

“Thank you,” Casey demurred. Reaching up, she gently caressed Ethan’s cheek, her eyes brighter than he had ever seen before. “You know, when we met,  I wasn’t looking to fall in love any more than you were. It wasn’t on my agenda. My residency, my career… they were my focus… they had to be… because I want to be the best… just like you. But it didn’t take me long to realize that sometimes life can take a detour. It can put us on a road we never expected to take, then it leads us to the most beautiful place… one we would have never experienced if we didn’t make that unexpected turn. You’re my beautiful place, Ethan. And I hope you always know just how much I love you.”

Ethan’s face was aglow as a single tear trickled down his cheek. Pulling Casey close, he went to kiss her when….

“AHEM!” The officiant was growing tired.

“Sorry,” Ethan smiled. “But could you get through the rest quickly? We’d really want to kiss.”

“I’ll see what I can do,” he grinned and went on to oblige Ethan's request. Within moments, the ceremony was nearing it's end.

“By virtue of the authority vested in me under the laws of the State of Nevada, I now pronounce you husband and wife. And, at long last, you may kiss your bride.”

The Wedding March march blared from the speakers overhead as Ethan and Casey shared a passionate kiss under the fistfuls of confetti and rose petals, tossed their way by Edna.

Casey tapped Ethan’s hand, and he stopped the recording on the phone. Both overcome, they lay next to each other without saying a word.

“Well,” Casey said after several moments passed. “That wasn't what I expected.”

“No,” Ethan agreed. “It wasn’t what I anticipated either.”

“Do you need to be drunk to speak so sweetly to me, Dr. Ramsey,” she teased.

“Really?”

“I’m just kidding. You’ve come a long way.”

With a deep sigh, Casey sat on the edge of the bed and grabbed the blue bag from the chapel. Pulling out the annulment pamphlet, she began to read.

“Well, Vegas may let you marry in a day, but it looks like it takes up to three weeks to get out of it.”  Tapping the brochure nervously in her hand, she began to stand. “I suppose we should start the process right away. Maybe before we leave, we should stop....”

But her words and movements halted when Ethan reached out and tugged her arm. She turned to him with a questioning look as he took her hand.

“What if we don’t….” he asked, as her eyes opened wide.

“What?”

“What if we don’t. Casey, stay married to me.”

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[toasttt11]

my big sister

October 1, 2022

Julianna had on Luke’s Michigan jersey and was sitting by the class ready for the first home game of the season. Emma her best friends sat next to her wearing a Michigan jacket and beanie.

Luca was skating on the ice and he was looking at the stands trying to find his parents when he saw a face he knew. Luca quite literally tripped on the ice barely catching himself from falling, he was so distracted seeing Julianna he wasn’t even paying attention to skating.

Adam who was next to his brother gave him a weird look but shook it off.

Luke smiled seeing his sister and her best friend, he waved happily at her and Julianna smiled fondly and blew a kiss to her little brother.

Michigan won 4-3.

Julianna and Emma walked down the stands and to the outside of the locker room seeing other family members and significant others waiting outside.

Luca’s eyes widen seeing Julianna outside the locker room and realized she had to know someone on the team. Adam and Luca walked over to their parents hugging them tightly.

“Oh! Julia is here i want to introduce you to her!” Adam spotted Julianna and smiled towards him family wanting them to meet his tutor.

“Oh definitely.” Julia smiled wanting to meet the girl that Adam seems to care for.

Adam led them over to Julianna and Luca’s eyes widen dramatically as he realized that Julianna was Julia.

“Juli!” Adam smiled as he called out her name, Julianna’s head snapped over to Adam and she smiled softly and raised a slight eyebrow seeing Luca.

“Hello Adam.” Julianna smiled and warmly accepted his hug, “You must Mrs and Mr Fantilli.” Julianna smiled and held out her hand towards them.

“Just Julia and Giuliano please.” Julia smiled shaking her hand gently, “Adam has told us a lot about you.” Julia and Giuliano have heard a lot about his tutor, “Oh and this is our son-“

“Luca.” Julianna gently cut them off gaining three surprised looks that she didn’t see because she was looking at Luca giving him a small smile, “We have a class together.” Julianna looked back to Adam and his parents.

Luca blushed realizing she knew who he was.

“Annie!” Luke called out to his older sister jogging over to her.

Julianna’s face lite up even more and she was immediately wrapping her arms around Luke as he quickly hugged her. She swayed back and forth with her baby brother who is already taller than her.

She pulled back from the hug cupping his face gently and Luke happily leaning into her touch, “Good game Moosey.” She gave him a soft proud smile and Luke proudly smiled.

Luke looked over and saw Adam and Luca with their parents, “Adam, Luca.” Luke nodded to them both, He knew she was tutoring Adam.

Luca looked between the two and at first he thought maybe they were together but then he saw all of the resemblance between the two and quickly realized, “Are you guys related?” Luca questioned making Adam also turned to the two and look at the two curious.

“She’s my big sister.” Luke proudly told them all wrapping his arm around her shoulder, He narrowed his eyes at Luca seeing him look at his older sister.

Luca paled slighty and realized the girl he has been crushing on for the last month is both his little brother’s tutor and his teammates sister.

[mxqlss]

ALL BECAUSE I LIKED A BOY. — RM2

jess’s song choice:

instagram sent you a notification!

@yn.ln posted on instagram!!

@yn.ln

“because i liked a boy” is out NOW!! Make sure to stream it on all platforms!! This song was based off my past relationships, therefore please do not come at any of them!!

I just wanna give a big thank you to all my friends out in Michigan, who supported me throughout my whole career from beginning to now! I love you all so much!! 💕💕

Liked by, ethanedwards.73, bestfriendsuser and 163.5K others

view all 1489 comments

ethanedwards.73 we love you too y/n/n!

yn.ln aw!! 🤍

lhughes_06 i miss you 😔

yn.ln miss you too lukey!!

user681 I love how rutgers friends are commenting except for rut himself? 🤨

liked by 1238 others

user12 exactly!! I think she wrote this song directly to rut!!

seamuscasey all because i liked a boy

yn.ln omg casey!!

bestfriendsuser thats my baby!!!

yn.ln i legit love you so much!! 💕

bestfriendsuser ik you do 🤍

user46 rutger is awfully quiet today..

markestapa lowk I might just send this to your exes!!

yn.ln mark. dont.

markestapa okay! (im gonna do it anyways)

ethanedwards.73 @yn.ln too late! did it once she posted

liked by rutgermcgroarty

yn.ln you guys suck

user149 @/ethanedwards.73 omg rutger liked it!! hes defo listened to the song!

instagram sent you a notification!

@hollywoodfame posted on instagram!

@hollywoodfame

It has been confirmed that YN LN and Rutger McGroarty are no long together! It is sad to see them go, but YN LN posted a new song that is possibly dedicated to Rutger??

Liked by user15, user184 and 104.9K others

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user27 this was not on my bingo card.

user17 do I cry? do I cheer? what do I do??

user91 tbh YN does not deserve Rut. Rut can get someone way better than YN.

user19 honestly, agreed

user46 YN was annoying anyways, kinda glad that they broke up

user18 I never liked YN, I dont understand what Rutger sees in her anyways

YN sat on the couch, in her apartment reading through the comments one by one. Most people didnt like her or thought Rutger deserved better than her, even when they were together they would still hate on her and she saw it every single time.

Before she could read more her phone dinged, she looked up at the notification

“hairless cat 💕” sent you a message!

“hey are you okay??”

she looked at the message before clicking on the notification and began typing back to Luke. Yes, she was hurt, but she couldnt do anything about it. It was out of her control and her managments control. It was out of Rutger’s control

a/n:: lowky this is my first time writing again but this isnt realy writing 😭😭. Anyways ill probably post the second part soon 🫶🏼

xoxo, jess

[coffeeheartaddict2]

When life has other plans (15/16)

DéJà Vu

Book: Open Heart (AU)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC Casey Valentine

Rating: Teen

Category: Fluffy angst

Warnings: language, allusions to sexual activity, mentions of abandonment.

Word count: 1926

Summary: Despite all appearing well on the surface, recent and past events still haunt Ethan. A no holds barred discussion with an old friend gives Ethan some perspective and is able to be more open with his feelings with Casey.

Disclaimer: Characters belong to Pixelberry.

Authors note: nearly there everyone- thank you to everyone who has read this far. Hopefully the next AU will be less angsty.

🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂

Work was going well. Tobias slotted in on the team well. He was duly impressed with the skill of Casey. He was relieved that she appeared to be recovering from the effects of the attack. Most of the antidote research was going to be done out of Edenbrook and he was on that project. Moving to Edenbrook meant giving up the Stephanie Hill research but they were in very capable hands.

Things with him and Ethan were going great also. Both men had always missed their friendship but now that they were friends again, how much they had missed had become apparent.

After having their discussion with HR and Naveen, Ethan and Casey on the surface appeared to the outside world to be in a good place also. However there was still a deep wound that was starting to fester. Despite all the therapy, discussion about the abortion, even having an in depth discussion about what contraception they would use going forward and assurances from Casey that she would include Ethan in any decision making going forward, he was still haunted by the recurring dream that Casey was going to abandon him. He thought that after his mother said her final goodbye and that everything was calm the nightmare would go away but they did not. They even haunted him on days that she stayed with him. It was always worse when she was not there of course, her physical presence was the only thing that calmed him and got him back to sleep. Casey would occasionally feel him wake but he would assure her he was fine and then cuddle her, saying I love you, so much before he drifts off back to sleep. Casey knew the key points of Ethan’s chat with Louise but she always let him discuss the events and how he was truly feeling on his terms.

It had being a couple months since Louise’s departure and he was still haunted by the recurring nightmare. It had gotten to a point where Casey was very concerned about Ethan. Casey had a run of late shifts so she generally stayed at hers but when she saw Ethan, he was looking exhausted. She had seen him run on exhaustion before and that was while he was treating Naveen. This time though she could not help but feel there was something else he was hiding however whenever he was questioned as to what was the matter, he kept brushing Casey off. It was a quiet day and Casey was updating a patient chart and Ethan came up beside her. He was the worst she had seen him.

“Something is clearly up Ethan.”

“I am fine, just did not sleep well.”

“Why aren’t you sleeping well? Talk to me Ethan” said Casey, quietly but pleadingly.

“There is nothing wrong Casey. End of discussion.” He says adamantly before walking off.

Casey stood there shook. She knew Ethan was lying and she was concerned that he was not telling her for a reason. Just then Tobias saw a frustrated looking Casey.

“Valentine, what’s up?”

“Nothing to concern you Tobias.” She said before walking off. Tobias was not convinced. He had seen the beginnings of a wall go up and he had noticed the lack of sleep that he had been getting but now it was clear that whatever wall he had started was now impacting his relationship with Casey. He had never seen his friend happier than

what he had been and it saddened him. He knew he had to confront him, much like he did multiple times in medical school, he knew it would be a gamble, but it was one he had to take.

Casey was again working a late shift. Ethan was at home alone, wallowing in the prison of doubt he had created. All of a sudden there was a knock on his door. It shook Ethan out of his stupor. He got up to answer and he was surprised to see Tobias on the other side. He lets him in and offers him a scotch. Tobias accepts.

“What is up Ethan and don’t you dare start your bullshit spiel of how nothing is wrong.”

Ethan was affronted.

“Is it that obvious?” Asked Ethan

“In a word, Yes.” Stated Tobias.

“I am fine…”

“No you are not” interjected Tobias. He took a breath.

“The last time I saw you in this much denial about your feelings was medical school.”

Anger flashed in Ethan’s eyes briefly.

“We are not in medical school I know but why is this feeling so similar Tobias.”

“Because you are being the same emotionally constipated idiot.”

“So shall I expect you to be making a play for Casey huh?”

Tobias slapped him.

“I saw for months you building a war around yourself when things started to get really serious with you and Estelle. I saw and heard the anguish it caused both of you. Try as I might back then, you did not listen or if you did you lived in denial. That conversation that night was the last straw for her. She went to someone who knew what was going on and that was me. And here I am, some many years later and you are repeating the same fucking bullshit Ethan.”

“I am not…”

“Let’s recap shall we? Your girlfriend survives a bio weapon attack, things are great, you are the happiest I have seen you, then all of a sudden your world is turned upside down. Ever since then to me it looks like you have started to build a wall to protect yourself, you are in denial about how you are going and now you are pushing a woman who cares for you very much away. How am I doing?”

Ethan slams his glass down in frustration and starts to cry and then it all spills out.

Ethan told her about how when he was in the Amazon when Casey had found out she was pregnant and how she decided not to tell him, how he found out about it, the conversation he had the next morning and how she said to him that he was only helping her out of obligation. The dream he had after he first saw Louise, how things were going great and how he kept having a recurring dream of Casey abandoning him, even though they had discussed everything going forward. Tobias was stunned.

“Why have you not told Casey about these dreams? Clearly it is eating away at you and creating a problem where there should not be one?”

Ethan thinks for a minute. “I truly do not know. I am scared. Scared that she will think less of me for thinking she will abandon me, he’ll even have another abortion again without telling me…”

“Firstly, I get her not telling you, I mean I would not want to hear that over voicemail but seriously Ethan, why are you self sabotaging yourself again?”

“I am not..”

“Yes, yes you are.” Stated Tobias. “If you were not self sabotaging then Casey would know about these dreams instead of you lying to her and clearly yourself and to answer your other question, No I will not make a play for Casey.”

Ethan did not know what to think. Tobias was right of course, like he was back in medical school but it was still confronting.

“I really am an idiot aren’t I?”

“Well, yes but unlike medical school you have closure on Louise. In a way she has abandoned you again but at least she said goodbye this time, not just upping and leaving with no explanation.”

Ethan took a drink. “And you don’t think Casey will think less of me?”

“She is worried about you buddy, there is no denying that and she wants to be there for you.”

Ethan nods his head in resignation.

“Thank you Tobias.”

“I admit it was a gamble, given our history with chats like this but I am glad I took it.”

Ethan nodded. Both men enjoyed another drink before Tobias left.

Ethan knew what he had to do but it was still harrowing, admitting to the woman he loves that he was having dreams of being abandoned by her but he had to do it. He looked at her schedule. She had a day off after a run of lates. He decided that he would ask her here and take the day off so they could talk. He messaged Naveen that he would be away on that day and messaged Casey asking if she would stay with him the night before to which she agreed.

A few nights later, Ethan was in the office, nervous. He decided to stay back and bring Casey to his house. Also if he stayed at work it meant that he would not drink. Her shift came to an end and they made their way to his apartment. They made their way up and Ethan warmed up some leftovers for dinner.

They sat down and ate. Ethan could see that Casey was exhausted but he decided to come out with everything.

“You are right, I am not ok. Since Louise unceremoniously came and left again I have had a recurring dream. Of being abandoned…abandoned by you. The scenario in each abandonment is different. You go on sabbatical and do not come back, similar to circumstances to Louise leaving me, sometimes taking a child, sometimes not, you have another abortion and not tell me again…”

He starts to cry. “I know we have discussed the abortion, made plans going forward, spent plenty of time in therapy and I still can not shake the dreams.”

Casey stands up and hugs him while he lets his emotions out. It was confronting to hear that Ethan was still having these dreams and thoughts. She knew that seeing Louise had given him closure but still her declining any assistance would be upsetting. In that moment though all she did was thank him for telling her. They head to his room and make love to each other before drifting off to sleep. For the first time in several months Ethan did not have the nightmare. He awoke the next morning, rested, relieved. He cuddles into Casey and she starts to stir. She can feel how hard he is for and he and they have another sweet and slow session. Hunger eventually forces them from bed and Casey makes some pancakes for breakfast.

“I do not know what I can say that will be condescending. I know you are more of an action person, not a word person given your history but you know I will endeavour to show with my actions, not only how much I love you and mean to me but that I am not Louise and not abandon you.”

“I love you so much, I do not know what I did to deserve you.” Says Ethan.

They have a quiet day in. Fully enjoying each other and Ethan hoping that the worse of the nightmares were gone.

A week goes by and Ethan has no more nightmares and it dawns on him that even though he had been abandoned, hurt, he could rebuild and let those people back in. This realization also helped him work on his relationship with Alan. The most relieved people aside from Casey obviously was Naveen and Tobias. Ethan was also happy too and as they entered what would be Casey’s final year of residency, he was confident that he would not again butcher a future chat.

————-

Authors note 2: so one more chapter of a happy ending. It will take in key points along the final year including g the end of the residency period. Thank you for enduring thus far.

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

[zegrasdrysdale]

wyatt johnston x hughes sister

she brings wyatt home with her to the lake house for the summer and her brothers really getting to see the two’s relationship

[ michigan summer ] w. johnston

part of the “falling for a hughes” au

paring : Wyatt Johnston x hughes!sister

summary : once Dallas gets eliminated from the playoffs, Lizzy brings Wyatt up to Michigan to spend the summer with her at the lake house with Quinn, Jack, Luke, and some friends

warning(s) : making out, slightly nsfw (nothing too bad), implied sex

author’s note : finally got healthy enough to actually sit down and write something. this isn’t my best work but i didn’t wanna leave y’all hanging. there is a lil something that i added in memory of johnny gaudreau in this fic bc it felt like i needed to do a lil something for him. fly high johnny & matthew gaudreau 🤍 (this is not gonna be the only fic in this universe that takes place at the lake house btw)

au masterlist

༺═──────────────═༻

She didn't mind staying in Dallas while the Stars were playing in the playoffs. The Pavelski's opened their house to her so she didn't have to stay in a hotel until either they got eliminated or won the whole thing. It could have been two weeks or it could have been two months. Lizzy is forever grateful for The Pavelski family and everything they've done for her and Wyatt, especially knowing that Joe is most likely retiring now that the season is over.

Now though? She's excited to go to Michigan like she does every summer. This summer is a bit different in that she gets to bring her boyfriend with her. Spending time with her brothers and some of their friends is her favorite thing to do in the offseason.

They depart Dallas about three days after Wyatt cleans out his locker and does his exit interview. There's an extensive and very emotional goodbye between Wyatt and Joe at the airport. There isn't a dry eye between her and Sarah as they watch their boys say goodbye. Lizzy thanks Sarah for the both of them before she and Wyatt make their way through security to get on their plane.

The plane to Michigan is filled with naps and laughing with Wyatt until it lands in Ann Arbor. Quinn waits for them with a car outside the airport. Jack sits in the passenger seat. Lizzy and Wyatt hop in the back once their things are loaded in the trunk.

"What's up, Sling Boy?" Lizzy asks as she slides in behind Jack. "How is your shoulder? Ready to get back on the ice?"

Jack turns and looks at her. "It's healing fine," he tells her. "You know I would get on the ice tomorrow if I could, but doc says I'm not allowed to skate until I'm cleared."

She smiles and scoots as close as she can to Wyatt. Quinn glances at the two of them in the rearview mirror and says, "No funny business in my backseat. You two hear me?"

"Aye, aye captain," Lizzy replies with a salute. She rests her head on Wyatt's shoulder and closes her eyes.

Quinn drives off with the windows down and she feels the Michigan air on her face. She feels like she’s finally home after a long season by being surrounded by all the people she loves in the place she loves.

The drive is about a half an hour long. Luke waits for the group on the back deck along with Seamus Casey, Ethan Edwards, and Mark Estapa. He greets his little sister with a hug. Lizzy says hi to his friends as she grabs her things from the car.

They walk into the house and Luke body blocks the stairs as he looks between his sister and Wyatt. “I want you to know that the walls are very thin and I am the room right next door to you two,” he tells them, his eyes more on Wyatt than her. “I don’t wanna be woken up at three in the morning because of the two of you. Got it?”

Lizzy’s cheeks get hot like all the blood from her body shoots to her face. “Luke, please,” she pleads. “This is so embarrassing.”

“You didn’t hear the conversation Pavs had with me after you went home after I introduced you to the team as my girlfriend,” Wyatt tells her. “That was embarrassing. This is just your big brother looking out for his sanity.”

Luke moves to the side. “It’s not a warning,” he says. “It was just a heads up that the walls are thin. I’ll sit you down later with Jack and Quinn to have The Talk.”

“Oh my God,” she gasps as she runs up the stairs. Wyatt laughs behind her as she runs into her usual bedroom. The door shuts when Wyatt is inside.

She opens the window to let the cool air into the room. It's a crisp 75 degrees with a breeze on the lake right now, which is a lot cooler than the weather she was faced with in Dallas the last few weeks. She sits on the bed and watches Wyatt look around her room.

The room is slightly bigger than her brother's rooms. Quinn has a room on the first floor, Jack and Luke share a room next door to her, and her parents' room is down the hallway. There are two guest bedrooms that Ethan, Seamus, and Mark are splitting.

She's updated her room over the last few years so it doesn't look like a childhood bedroom and has a more "adult" look, but she couldn't bring herself to pull down the One Direction posters that have been on her walls for ten years. The walls are still light pink from when she was 12 and she asked her father to paint them because she loved the color pink.

As she grabs her suitcase to unpack her things, Wyatt laughs. "Cute room," he comments. "Didn't know you were such a fan of pink."

"I was twelve, you asshole," she laughs. "I was obsessed with Barbie too. My whole room was pink at one point. Sheets, blankets, lamp. I had pink fairy lights around the mirror. All I wore was pink. It was really bad.”

Wyatt comes up from behind her and drapes his arms around her waist. “I would’ve loved to see that,” he tells her. She rolls her eyes with a smile on her lips while she continues to unpack her things.

“You would’ve thought I was a nerd or something if you knew me back then,” Lizzy explains. “We wouldn’t have been friends, Wyatt.”

“I like to think we would’ve been friends, or more, no matter how old we were or in any universe,” Wyatt mumbles next to her ear. Lizzy turns her head and looks up at her boyfriend. “I don’t think anything would stop me from knowing you.”

She lays out a shirt on top of the already forming pike and turns in Wyatt’s arms. He leaves his arms where they are as she drapes her arms around his neck. “Sap,” she teases.

“Duh.”

The pair share a laugh before Lizzy pulls him down to her level as an urge to be close to him suddenly overwhelms her. She gently claims his lips in a kiss that starts soft. It doesn’t take very long for the soft, gentle kiss into a heated, needy kiss.

Hands begin to roam over and under clothes as the kiss grows hotter. Wyatt pushes her onto her back on the mattress and he follows her as he climbs over her. She pushes his hair out of his eyes and decides that he’s not allowed to get anything more than a trim because she’s grown used to his longer playoff hair. She was already upset when he shaved.

Lizzy wraps his legs around his waist to keep him where he is as Wyatt’s lips leave hers to attach to her jaw. She bites her lip to keep herself from making any kind of noise. “Wyatt,” she sighs. “Gotta unpack.”

“This is more fun,” he tells her, lips brushing the sensitive skin on her jaw under her ear. Wyatt pulls back and meets her eyes. “Please? I spent all my time after we lost moping or packing my things or at the arena to clean out my gear. I rarely got to see you.”

He isn’t wrong. The first day after they lost, he moped in his room despite her, Joe, and Sarah trying to get him to come out. The second day he packed up his room. The third day he did his exit interview and was at the arena to clear out his gear. Then it was back to packing and looking for a new place to rent for next season with Logan. She rarely did get to see him.

That’s the only reason she says, “One round. Quick before my brothers come looking for us.”

“Deal.”

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

A half an hour later, they can barely keep their hands off each other while they finish unpacking. Lizzy gives him half of the closet and one drawer for his things. She lets him take as much of the bathroom counter space as he needs since he doesn’t need much, and he does what he can with the space that’s left in the shower for his supplies.

It takes them an hour longer to unpack than it normally would because they get so caught up in each other. There was a five or ten minute interval where they stood in her bathroom making out. Lizzy called it a “much needed break” to justify it.

The pair leaves her room about two hours after they get to the house. Lizzy’s hand is in Wyatt’s as they walk down the steps to find her brothers, Ethan, Seamus, and Mark. The six of them sit around the living room when she and Wyatt walk in. Luke and Quinn have controllers in their hands and Chel is on the television.

“Predictable,” she comments as she leads Wyatt to one of the chairs adjacent to the couch that isn’t in use. Her boyfriend sits in the chair and she makes herself comfortable on his lap. “Do you guys play anything else besides hockey?”

Jack looks over to her. “Do you do anything besides your boyfriend?” he retorts. “I mean, two hours to unpack? We got bored waiting for you two to get done.”

She rolls her eyes as Wyatt drapes his arm over her thighs and she wraps an arm around his neck. “I had a lot of things,” she lies. “Sorry.”

Her older brother hums a “mhm” and turns his attention back to the game that’s being played. Luke is playing as Columbus and Quinn is playing as Calgary. Quinn has a tight two-to-one lead over his youngest brother. Being Luke’s twin, Lizzy takes his side and roots for him to win the game.

Wyatt and Jack play a round after Luke sneaks into the lead and wins three-to-two after scoring two goals late in the third period. Some good old fashioned Devils versus Stars in Newark. Lizzy turns on her brother and roots for Wyatt. Jack gives her a look every time Wyatt score and she cheers.

At the same time, Wyatt sees and experiences firsthand how competitive the Hughes siblings are because Jack begins to play dirty despite his shoulder being in a sling. Lizzy fights for Wyatt so he can focus on beating Jack.

"That all you got, Johnston?" Jack asks when Wyatt hits one of the Devils players -- she's pretty sure it was Jack his player hit -- and he goes down.

"Focus on your game, Hughes," Wyatt retorts instead of Lizzy. "Maybe you wouldn't be losing right now if you scored instead of trying to psych me out when you’re already at a disadvantage because of your shoulder."

Lizzy's jaw drops at his comeback, Quinn and Luke burst out laughing, and the Michigan boys smile. Jack sends him a glare and tries the Michigan goal with himself, and fails.

At the next stoppage, she leans into Wyatt’s ear and whispers, "That was kinda hot." He smiles and scores another goal to make it four-to-two going into the third period.

When Jack loses, he starts claiming that Wyatt cheated. “Lizzy was definitely helping him!” he accuses. “I mean, come on!”

Quinn claps his younger brother on the good shoulder and says, “I hate to break it to you, but Wyatt won fair and square.”

“I want a rematch.”

“And I want to go on the boat before it gets too dark or cold out,” Lizzy tells the group. “Wyatt’s never been on the boat either. I don’t know how to drive the boat so someone has to come out with me. Dad never taught me how.”

Her boyfriend puts his controller down on the table and taps Lizzy’s thigh so she moves. Lizzy stands up and looks around the room before she turns to walk out of the room. Quinn follows first, then Luke. The Michigan boys are next. Jack wallows in his loss.

When she gets to her room, she grabs one of the one piece suits that she packed. She’s not going to waste a bikini on a mid-70 degree late afternoon when she’s here all summer long. It’s a solid black piece with a very low cut neck that shows off a lot more cleavage than her brothers would probably like. Wyatt doesn’t seem to mind when she wears this bathing suit. He matches her with a pair of black swim shorts and one of his Stars hockey shirts with a 53 on his chest. She throws one of the shirts she stole borrowed from Wyatt before leaving the room.

The boys are down on the dock by the time she and Wyatt get outside. Quinn is in the driver’s seat and the rest of the group is scattered in the back. She and Wyatt find a place to sit next to each other, then they’re off.

Lizzy laces her fingers with Wyatt’s and rests her head on his shoulder while her boyfriend converses with her twin brother. Her eyes are closed and she listens to the two of them talk about the playoffs and how great Wyatt’s performance was.

“We couldn’t stop cheering for you guys,” Luke tells him. “Especially you. You were a point machine, Wyatt. Gave playoff McDavid a run for his money. You most likely would’ve passed him had you guys moved on to the Cup finals.”

A small smile forms on her lips as she hears her brothers all compliment Wyatt. She knows what their words mean to him. Not only are they coming from a Calder nominee, a top forward, and a top defenseman in the NHL, but they’re coming from his girlfriend’s brothers. Their words mean a lot to Wyatt, and he’s told her that nearly a dozen times since February.

The cool late afternoon Michigan air feels good on her skin after being in the humid 90 degrees in Dallas for the past month and a half. The breeze coming off the lake whips through her hair. Lizzy feels herself begin to relax as the boat bobs up and down with the waves. Quinn steers the boat into deeper lake water before they anchor so they can swim.

Luke immediately is in the water when Quinn drops anchor. Ethan and Mark are right behind him. Jack sits on the boat with his feet in the water since he’s still not cleared. Wyatt jumps in with Quinn and Lizzy sits beside her older brother. Seamus sits on his phone behind them.

She looks over at Jack and asks, “How are you really? I feel like I haven’t asked you that enough since you ended your season early to get surgery.”

With a shrug and a sigh, Jack replies, “Frustrated that I can’t do much until I get cleared. Hopefully that’s in two weeks or else the cover shoot is gonna be jeopardized in July. I need to be able to fully skate, take passes, shoot the puck. Do all that in full gear and uniform. I feel good but I’m frustrated that I feel good and can’t do anything.”

“I’m sorry, Jacky,” she says with a frown. “I will say that I am glad you’re taking the doctor’s advice to rest and do your physical therapy without pushing yourself. I know you want to get back on the ice with our brothers but I am glad you’re not pushing yourself to get there.”

He looks over at Lizzy. “I want to have a healthy season,” he explains. “I haven’t hit the one hundred point mark yet because of injuries. I could’ve hit it in the 22-23 season, but I was out with injury for a handful of games. Then last year I was on pace for it then was out for nearly twenty games. It’s incredibly frustrating to be so close but so far, you know?”

She nods but in reality, she doesn’t know. Lizzy played hockey and she’s good, but not good like her brothers. She wasn’t going to the PWHL, but she’s occasionally been on the US national women’s team. There was never any pressure on her like there are on her brothers and her boyfriend. Yes, her last name is Hughes, but she’s never been under that pressure of being a Hughes since she’s decided to go into college and temporarily suspend her hockey career.

The boys splash in the lake and Quinn is trying to drown Luke, but Lizzy’s full attention is on Jack right now. She drapes an arm around her middle brother’s neck and pulls him into a gentle side hug. “Love you, Jacky,” she tells him. “No matter what.”

Jack rests an arm around her waist and his head on her shoulder. The pair of siblings stay like that for a few moments, watching their brothers and friends in the lake.

She watches Wyatt swim up to the boat. He treads water in front of her and asks, “You coming in on your own or do I have to drag you in here?”

“Don’t you dare touch me, Wyatt Johnston,” she warns him as she lets her brother go. “I swear to God, you won’t like it if you pull me in the water.”

A mischievous smirk forms on his lips. Wyatt glances over at Jack. Lizzy looks over at her brother as he shoves her into the lake with his good arm.

She gasps and holds her breath as she goes under the cold water. Her head breaks through the surface and she looks up at Jack in the boat. “You’re so lucky that you’re hurt or I’d be pulling your ass into the water,” she tells him.

Jack sticks his tongue out at her. “That’s what you get for helping Wyatt beat me at Chel,” he retorts. “Enjoy the water, baby sister.”

A pair of arms wraps around her waist and she spins. Lizzy is face to face with Wyatt. He kicks them away from the boat and she wraps her legs around his waist as he kicks but drops them as soon as he stops. She wraps her arms around his neck.

Water droplets roll down his face from his hair. His blue eyes are brighter as the sun reflects off the water. Lizzy can’t help but smile at the sight.

“Is it bad at that I think it’s hot that you’re soaking wet in my t-shirt?” he questions. “Because all I can think about is how it’s going to hug your body when you get onto the boat and I’m afraid I won’t be able to keep my hands off of you.”

She smiles and plays with the wet hair on the back of his neck. “Only you would find me hot in a wet t-shirt,” she teases. Wyatt laughs and pushes a wet strand of hair out of her face. “I mean, come on, Wyatt.”

He pulls her closer to him by her waist until their noses touch. Her chest is flush against his. “Sorry that I find my girlfriend hot,” he mumbles.

Lizzy barely rolls her eyes before Wyatt captures her lips in a tame kiss. She reciprocates with the same gentleness as Wyatt had. Her hands slide to his jaw and she cups his face.

One of Wyatt’s hands slide into her hair and he cups the back of her neck. The kiss deepens very slightly when she tests the waters and licks across Wyatt’s bottom lip. Wyatt grants her full access and she takes advantage. A quiet hum bubbles from Wyatt’s throat. It’s only loud enough for her to hear.

Wyatt’s free hand slides up the shirt she’s wearing and rests it on her ass. She giggles into the kiss that follows.

“Ayo!” Luke shouts from twenty feet away. “Keep it PG! We don’t wanna see you trying to eat our sister’s face, Wyatt!”

She waves him off without breaking the kiss. Wyatt just laughs against her lips before he pulls back. “Are they going to say something every time I touch you?” he asks.

“Probably,” she admits with a soft smile. “I don’t think they’re used to the fact that their baby sister has a serious boyfriend. This is the first time you’re spending more than a day or two with them.”

Wyatt smiles. “Guess I’ll just have to keep it PG then,” he teases.

“It’s okay to push it to PG-13 sometimes,” she tells him. “They’ll get used to it.”

“Hope so,” Wyatt says. His voice lowers for a second as he continues talking. “Because I like touching you like I am right now with my hand on your ass.”

He gives her butt a little squeeze and she laughs. “I can’t stand you,” she lies.

“Mhm.”

༺═──────────────═༻

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[choicesficwriterscreations]

January Creator of the Month: Jerzwriter

Each month, CFWC highlights one of our talented fanfic writers or artists, and this month’s creator of the month is CFWC's own @jerzwriter.  The writer is selected at random. More info can be found on the navigation page.

Quick Links:

Tumblr Blog Complete Masterlist

How do you want to be known on Tumblr? 

Elsa

More below...

1- When did you start playing Choices? What was the first book you played? 

It was sometime in 2017, and the first book I ever played was The Royal Romance, Book 1.

2- When and why did you join Choices fandom?

I joined a couple Facebook groups in 2019. I just wanted to discuss stories with others who were interested, as no one in my real life reads Choices. I didn't even know I was entering a fandom. lol I started reading fanfic on Tumblr the following year, but I found Tumblr intimidating, so I was mostly a silent reader. I didn’t start writing and contributing until May 2021, mostly because Open Heart was ending and I was in denial. 🙂

3- How did you pick your blog name? 

It’s pretty boring, actually. I’m from NJ, and I write. I wanted it to be JerZwriter, so people would know it is Jer-ZEE-Writer, but that wasn’t doable, so it’s Jerzwriter, and most think it is Jerz-Writer. Oh, well!  

4- Pull up the first and last posts in your archive, and tell us about them!  

My first post was the first chapter of my Ethan x Casey x Tobias love triangle, Delaying the Inevitable (OH).  It was my very first fanfic and I really didn't think I'd write anything beyond that.  I was so green back then, not only to fanfic but to the fandom as well. I’m really glad that I was naive because I don’t think I would have had the courage to post it if I had, but I’m glad that I did. 

My last post was Falling for You, a little drabble I wrote for Tobias x Casey (OH), and it featured a commission by the talented artist @weetlebeetle. It was a light, fun piece that took place early in Tobias and Casey's relationship, and it shows Tobias at his absolute simpiest. Lol 

5- Do you write fanfiction, create fan art, or are you one of those really gifted people who do both? 

Oh, how I wish I could draw, but I can't.  So, I’m strictly a writer. I may try giving drawing a go again, but I don't expect much to come of it. lol

6- How long have you been creating for Choices and for any other fandoms?

Choices was the first fandom I ever wrote for, and I started in May of 2021.  So, just over two and a half years. I have written a little bit for some other fandoms since that time, but I primarily write for Choices.

7- What is your favorite Choices book, and what is your favorite Choices book to create for?

Tough question.  I write for Open Heart, Crimes of Passion, and Wake the Dead, and they are three of my favorite stories. I also loved Desire & Decorum, but I never wrote for it.  Though, I’m planning a re-read, and you never know. 🙂

8- Share your first Choices fanfic or fan art that you posted with us. Do you still like it, or would you change it if you were creating it today?

It was the first chapter of Delaying the Inevitable. I was so green when I started that series that I’m sure there are things I would change, but I’m still very proud of it.  That series will always have a special place in my heart.  I’d like to revisit it one day to “clean it up”, it could use some condensing. But I would never change the storyline.

9- What is your favorite piece of fiction or art that you created? 

This is such an unfair question. lol The Delaying the Inevitable Series definitely comes to mind, but I’m also very proud of my Eli Sipes prequel stories, A Mother’s Journal, Coming Up Blank, and The End of the World. But Tobias and Casey are my favorite pairing, and I simply love the world I created for them. And while my headcanon for them is my favorite, I cannot pick just one fic for them, and I'm not going to! lol But, I've also written a bunch of AUs for them, and Friends* is one of my favorites.

10- Do you have a fic/art that you didn’t expect to be well received, but it was? What about one you expected to do well but found it could use a little more love?

Yes, to both! The fandom is much smaller today, but back when we were more active, I learned you couldn't predict how a fic would be received.  There are too many to name, but I will say whenever my smut does well (and quite a few of them have), I’m always astounded. lol 

11-  If you could write only angst, fluff, or smut for the rest of your writing life, which would it be and why? 

This is such a difficult question because I believe the best stories incorporate a little of each, and, as a writer, exploring all three helps spur creativity. Also, my absolute favorite is angst with a happy ending, so there is definitely some fluff in there (and I'm never mad at a little smut being thrown in!) But if I were forced to choose, it would probably be angst.  I think that's where I am strongest, and I just love raw emotion. I think that’s where character development really occurs. I have not written as much angst recently, and I miss it.  Perhaps I need a change in 2024. 

12 - Do you ever recognize yourself in any of your MCs or in your writing?

There are definitely parts of me in my MCs and OCs, but I do my best to prevent them from becoming self-inserts.  I'm not as cool as any of them, that's for sure! lol That said, I do find inspiration for my fics in real life, so there is bound to be a little crossover. When using real-life inspiration, I try to change details so that the fiction is not a carbon copy of the real-life event. Normally, by the time I'm done, they're hardly recognizable.

13 - What element of writing/art do you struggle with most? Where do you feel you are strongest?

I struggle most with setting a scene. Dialogue is my strong suit, and that just flows for me. It flows so much that sometimes I forget to describe what's going on around the conversation. I think this is particularly easy to do in fanfiction because so much of the "world" has already been provided for us, so I recognize this more when I'm writing original works.

The other thing I struggle with? Brevity. I know I can go on, and on, and on. lol I've gotten much better at this, but there is still room for improvement.

14 - Do you have any neglected work you really want to finish?

(Elsa leaves the room, quietly crawls under her desk, and hides…) YES!!! Far, far too many, and no matter how much I share those posts that say, "You don't have to finish! If you're not feeling it, move on!" I don't believe it! lol I really want to make wrapping them up a priority in 2024.  But I also know writing - particularly good writing - cannot be forced.  So, it's a goal, but I'll only do it if I feel it’s right. 

15 - If someone you know in real life (who isn’t involved in fandoms) asked to see your work, would you let them? If yes, what would you show them first? 

It would depend on who asked.  I’m not ashamed of writing fanfic at all, but if I believed the person would be judgemental, I wouldn't be willing to share.  A few of my friends have read select pieces of my fanfic, and I’ve always received positive feedback from them. I wouldn’t be opposed to sharing more.  What I'd share would depend greatly on the person asking.

16 - Are there any writers (published authors and/or fanfic writers) who influenced your writing or art? Are there any artists that influence you?

There are many published writers that I admire, but I don’t think they've influenced my writing here. Within the fandom, there are many writers who have inspired me in different ways. There is no way I can ever name them all. But I'd like to give a shout-out to some.

@jamespotterthefirst and @bex-la-get were among the first writers I read when I joined Tumblr. I found their passion for both canon and the worlds they created inspiring, especially as Open Heart was nearing its end and all of us addicts needed our fill. Reading their works helped keep the story alive for me and so many others, and it inspired me to try my hand at it as well. To my shock, they were both so encouraging and supportive of me when I arrived, and I'm forever grateful. Back then, I thought they were rockstars - and they are! But now, they're also friends. I wasn't familiar with @alwaysmychoices from the start, but when I came across their work, I was just blown away.  Weekend with Dr. Ramsey will live rent-free in my head forever, and that headcanon about Charlie calling Ethan the night before she marries someone else. (I faint.) Ohhh, the delicious angst! The way she made me feel what Charlie felt was just mind-boggling, and it encouraged me to really dig into my character's emotions and bring them to life in a more meaningful way.

Early on, I read @utterlyinevitable, and the thing that impressed me the most was how Dom was willing to "write stories that “went "go there.”  They tackled issues that others wouldn't touch.  In their world, everything wasn’t perfect, including the characters themselves. I admired that vision and, frankly, bravery, and it definitely encouraged me to write what I wanted to and not what I felt was expected of me.

More recently, @mydemonsdrivealimo inspired me to explore parts of my MCs that I have not delved into in the past.  In particular, Casey's bisexuality. It can be challenging to represent a bisexual character when they are in a straight-presenting relationship, and you risk alienating readers no matter what you do (looking at all readers here.) So it becomes easier to be lazy and ignore it. But that's a disservice to the character as much as it's a disservice to people living similar situations in real life... like I have many times. Through MJ's writing and our conversations, they've helped me become more aware and do a better job in this regard, and I'm not even sure if they know this - it may totally be news to them lol - but I'm eternally grateful. Now, I feel my girl Casey is free, and OMG, how I love our characters playing together in HC now!

Then there are @lilyoffandoms and @storyofmychoices, who bring joy to all that they touch. Who knew when Lily created a little drabble putting our characters in a new world together, it would end up being one of the brightest fandom spots of 2023? Who knew that so much more would stem from that one work? Seriously, it's been one of the highlights of my fandom experience this year, and it's helped me to find inspiration at times when I felt like it was lost. Thank you both - I am so lucky to have you both here!

There are so many more I could mention, but I'd still forget people and feel horrible, so I want to take the chance to thank every writer in the fandom for sharing their gifts with us. Each of you is an inspiration in your own way; each of you can give someone an idea, and you have no idea where that spark will lead. So, never stop sharing!

17-  Which one of your stories would you most like to see as a movie/series? 

Delaying the Inevitable, Friends*, All in the Past, and the WIP What’s Forever For. I also think some of my Ethan x Tobias works would have made for a good sitcom, and how I wish my Tobias x Casey friendship with Bryce x Jensen would be an epic sitcom. The world needs it! lol   (Jensen belongs to @mydemonsdrivealimo.)

19- Do you write original fiction or create non-fandom art? 

I do. Mostly shorter stories that will never see the light of day, but also some more substantive works... which will also never see the light of day! lol I wrote a novel-length political thriller some time ago. It would need a ton of work to bring it up to 2024, as the political landscape has changed so much. I also have two original WIPs I've been writing. One is an angsty story about a friendship that's loosely based on a childhood friend I lost to cancer a few years ago.  The other is a polyamorous romance about two best friends who fall for the same person. It's really a beautiful, emotional story. If I like the end result, maybe I'll let it see the light of day... maybe. lol

20-  What other hobbies do you have?

I enjoy theater, and I'm lucky enough to live in the best part of the world to partake in that.  I go to a lot of Broadway, Off-Broadway, and local theater productions. I also love going to concerts - they’re like group therapy! Trust me, I got more out of seeing Noah Kahan and Hozier in 2023 than I did from the entirety of sessions with my therapist - and I loved my therapist. lol

Prior to 2020, I did a fair amount of traveling, and I hope to start doing a little more this year.  But I have to admit, since the lockdown, I’ve become more of a homebody, and I like it, so we’ll see how that goes! 

I used to be very involved with activism and advocacy for women’s, lgbtq+, and mental health issues. I still am, but in a different capacity than I was in the past. These issues require people fighting for them, and doing so has always been a huge part of who I am, but it can be draining, and burnout is real. I really reached the end of my rope. So, nowadays, I work as a volunteer for a couple local organizations that really mean a lot to me. I'm not involved in grassroots efforts or taking trips to talk to legislators as often, but I'm helping people on a smaller scale, and that still goes a long, long way.

22: BONUS - tell us anything you’d like (if you want to).

As most of you know, I’m one of the mods here at CFWC, so it was a little weird when my the wheel landed on my name.  But, honestly, it’s happened before, and I've just spun again, even though I am eligible. But this time around, I decided to do it. This fandom really means a lot to me, and I wanted to share a little more about myself and my crazy pixelated people.

I'm truly grateful to everyone in the fandom who does their part to make this a place that many, like me, still see as a place they want to be. We're smaller, it's imperfect, it has plenty of problems, but I am choosing to focus on the good... because there is much more of that than there is bad. So, thank you to each of you... and I hope we all have a wonderful 2024! xo

PS... My header... I know Tobias wasn't technically an LI... which was truly criminal. So, that's what fandom is for, fixing what canon effed up. lol My favorite canon LI is Trystan Thorne (COP). I tried adding their picture to the header alongside Tobias, but it looked terrible, so here I am. :)

Thanks for taking the time to read this, and I can't wait to highlight more of you in 2024! :)

[dylan-duke]

my first ever au! please send in thoughts so that i can chat about these two. I have lots and lots of ideas!

Joanna Jules Tkachuk, or JJ for short, was the star of the Michigan soccer team and the best friend of Luke Hughes. And she was the bain of Adam Fantilli’s existence, but she was everywhere. The whole team loves her; actually, they’re obsessed with her, but the youngest Fantilli can’t stand her. 

Adam Fantilli x Tkachuk! Sister

[openheartfanfics]

Newly Added Fics

Oct 12 - 18, 2024  

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

Ethan x F!MC

Good Driver - @cariantha ♥ “Before you marry someone, go sit in traffic with them for at least 2 hours.” How would Ethan and Sawyer do? [Public]

I Don’t About You, But I’m Feeling 32 - @genevievemd 📷 Gen celebrates a birthday and becoming a new mom.

Rafael x F!MC

Our Miracle Baby - @rafasgirl23415 📚 [extended: wip] TW: Discussion of and scenes of miscarriage in flashback scenes of domestic violence.

Part 15

Part 16

Sienna x M!OC

Motivation - @liaromancewriter 📱 Sienna has motivational words for Max.

Tobias x F!MC

A Change of Plans - @jerzwriter ☁ Casey's cousin, Peter, is insistent she meet his friend, Ian. Casey would rather be on her couch after a long day at work, but a twist of fate has her glad she went after all.

_

SUBMIT OPEN HEART FICS & WRITERS HERE

[darkeralmond]

→˚₊· 🫐 ੭* APRICOT’S NAVIGATION CENTER

This is my navigation post where I have all the links to my posts on both here and on Wattpad where I write my full fanfictions.

This will not only help you find my works in a more organized manner, but it also helps me with advertising my works and boosting them.

* Means the post includes 18+ content such as…

- gore/violence

- smut

- intense swearing

- overal explicit content

+ Means that it is a story in progress or not started

Thank for reading my work I love you all ❤️

✩*ೃ┆FANFICS

wattpad: darker_almond

posting schedule: every other day!!

⊱┊ INFLUNCERS

Hold Me Closer - Baylen Levine x OC

⊱┊ HOCKEY PLAYERS

One Month - Ethan Edwards x OC

If I Could Fly - Luke Hughes x OC

Fortnight - Rutger McGroarty x OC

⊱┊ MOVIES/TV SHOWS

Repeat - Ethan Landry x OC * (Scream 6)

- All these posts are my original work with loose inspiration from either another fic or a movie/TV show. I take credit for the writing & visuals found in my fanfics.

✩*ೃ┆ONE SHOTS

- Unlike the fanfics, I will divide these into specific categories instead of bundling them up since I write a lot of one shots that include fictional characters from TV Shows/Movies

posting schedule: monday-saturday @3:35 PM EST

⊱┊ TSITP

Jeremiah Fisher

Pool Boy *

Hopper’s Cove *

Dark Red *

Conrad Fisher

A KISS

WANNA BE YOURS *

Escort?

Dead To Me *

Cam Cameron

First Time *

Black Lace Panties *

⊱┊ UMICH

Luke Hughes

Dance With Me

More Than Friends *

Luca Fantilli

Beer Pong

Study Session *

Bathing Suit

Mark Estapa

Birthday Surprise *

Sparks Fly

Ethan Edwards

My Dirty Little Secret *

We Can Be Quiet *

Fireworks

Rutger Mcgroarty

Rebellious *

Not So Fake *

Mackie Samoskevich

5 Minutes *

Nolan Moyle

Strawberry Kiwi * pt. 2

Seamus Casey

Attention *

⊱┊ NHL

Brendan Brisson

Good Girl *

Trevor Zegras

New To Anaheim pt 2.

Owen Power

Stay, Stay, Stay

Jack Hughes

Plans & Rewards *

Macklin Celebrini

4th Of July

Beckett Sennecke

Dominance Over You *

I want to produce content that makes others get inspired to write just like many writers have for me!

Tags include: #darker_almond, #apricot’s navigation #apricot’s fanfics, #apricot yaps, #apricot’s aus

Please! if you have any requests for either a fanfic idea or a one shot you would like me to write with one of your favorite character(s), let me know in my ‘requests’ tab .

Here’s for more information about request

[storyofmychoices]

Thank you to everyone who helped make my birthday special. I seriously needed all of your love and kindness this week.

My real life was beyond challenging, I wondered if I was going to get to the end of the week. I didn't even get to celebrate my birthday because things were so bad with my dad, so to see all of your love and support here, it meant EVERYTHING to me. I wish I had the proper words to tell you how much you all mean to me. I know I say it, but please know that I mean it, from the bottom of my heart, I can't say thank you enough for making me feel special, appreciated, and loved. I am so so eternally grateful to you for the time, effort, and thoughtfulness you put into your gifts or even just your kindness in sending a sweet message. I appreciate you all so much!

Thank you 💖

Thank you for all of these amazing gifts and messages! I hope I don't miss anyone, if I do, please let me know. It's not my intention to overlook anyone!

Blades of Light & Shadow

Bumbling Adversaries by @dutifullynuttywitch Mal and Daenarya run from a fearsome adversary

Daenarya's Birthday Drabble by @lilyoffandoms Mal, Tyril, and Maiele plan a surprise party for Daenarya

Insomnia by @thosehallowedhalls On the night after defeating the Dreadlord, Mal watches Daenarya sleep and reflects on his place in her life.

Mal x Daenarya kiss art by @lilyoffandoms

Crimes of Passion

Drabble by @lilyoffandoms Lilah and Ruby discuss a certain someone and Lilah's interest in him.

The Morning After (Lilah art—mature) by @lilyoffandoms

Mother of the Year

Levi and Lily post it note fun art by @lilyoffandoms

Open Heart

Can I have this Dance Quote Edit by @aallotarenunelma

Something Sweet (fic + art of Olivia) by @jerzwriter Casey, Merida, Bryce, Ethan, and Tobias help Olivia celebrate her birthday even from afar.

Red Carpet Diaries

Alex Hunt Moodboard by @lorircreates

The Hollywood Theatre by @princess-geek In a Regency AU, The Duke of Holly (Thomas Hunt) is looking for a singer for his new opera when he finds Lady Alexandra Spencer.

Thomas Hunt Classic Hollywood Portrait by @oh-so-youre-a-nerd

Thomas x Alex edit by @choiceswithmika

The Unexpected Heiress

Christine Jane Hayes (MC) Portrait by @lilyoffandoms

Some Lovely Asks:

From Nonny

From ao719

From Nonny

From angelasscribbles

From Nonny

From the-soot-sprite

From trappedinfanfiction

From ladylamrian

[jerzwriter]

What Happened In Vegas Chapter 3 - Winners and Losers

Book: Open Heart (Book 2)

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

Rating: Teen

Warnings: Alcohol consumption, mild sexual content

Category: Series - AU

Words: 6,200 (sorry, but we cover a lot 😊

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 3: Casey makes herself scarce as Ethan sets his plan in motion, earning the suspicion of many, including Casey. Before the night ends, it appears celebrating is in order, but another revelation awaits. @choicesdecember2022 - Day 1 - Love Spiral

SERIES MASTERLIST

Ethan moved across the packed floor of the lounge. Although slithering may have been a more fitting term given the crowd assembled. Pharma executives in hand-tailored suites, an occasional politician or two, most likely on the take, and of course, a swarm of doctors.

Doctors.

He grumbled to himself. These weren’t worthy of the term. As far as Ethan was concerned, being a doctor ceased to exist the moment making a buck became more important than patient care. The crowd here? They weren’t doctors to him. He was trying to think of places he would less rather be, but he couldn’t think of many. Thoughts of bolting played over and over in his mind, and he swore he felt his body moving toward the exit. But it was too late.

Charlotte’s lips curled into a coy smile when their eyes locked. She studied him intently as he walked her way, taking him in the way an animal surveys its prey. He felt his stomach churn, the desire to flee increasing tenfold. But he felt the need to make things right as much as Jackie did. For all his loathing of the “doctors” in attendance, he was responsible for bringing Panacea on board at Edenbrook. When push came to shove, he also put his own desires above the greater good. He needed to right that wrong. So with a deep breath, he produced the most sincere smile he could muster and stepped in front of a simpering Charlotte.

"Dr. Ramsey?" she purred, doing nothing to conceal her adulation. "Can you reassure me this isn't a dream?"

"With the caliber of scotch they're serving? If this is a dream, you’ll have to reclassify it as a nightmare."

Her face soured, and she glared at the bar with fury in her eyes. "I’m disappointed to hear that. Panacea has spared no expense on this event, and our intention is to impress our most distinguished guests. I will speak with management.”

“No need,” Ethan reassured. “I’m confident that the majority of your guests are not as discerning as me. A fancy bottle and a high price tag, they’ll be easily convinced that the swill they’re drinking is top shelf. So, Panacea’s goals will be met.”

“Hmmm,” she hummed, eyeing him salaciously from head to toe. “The thing is, I’m not really concerned about what most think, but I am…” she stopped short with a coy smile. “You know, I was in the VIP sportsbook earlier, and they were serving Balvenie 40. Would that be to your satisfaction?”

“It depends,” he replied with a cocked eyebrow. “Are you buying?”

Charlotte’s head tilted back in a fit of laughter far more enthusiastic than the situation merited. As she drowned out the jazz quartet and the hum of dozens of conversations around them, heads began to turn their way. Unbeknownst to Ethan, two of those heads belonged to Jackie and Sienna.

“I’m happy to treat you this evening,” she enticed. “Well, Panacea is. In any case,” she inched closer, locking her eyes on his as she caressed his forearm with a well manicured hand. “You won’t have to pay a cent to enjoy the finest things Vegas has to offer tonight. What do you say, Dr. Ramsey?”

He stood silently, partly to maintain an air of mystery but mainly to prevent himself from saying what he wished he could say. Only after Charlotte looped her arm into his did he reply.

“I say, lead the way.”

~~~~~ 

“Did you see that!” Sienna shouted.

Jackie twisted her lips, “I did.”

“Tell me that’s part of the plan! Where is Casey? This better be part of the plan!”

Jackie stretched her neck to search the room. “I don’t see her. But she did say she was making herself scarce...”

“But the minute she’s gone…he’s… he’s….”

“Sienna, stop preparing to bite his ankles. It’s probably part of the plan… Ethan doesn’t strike me as the type who would have a thing for that rattlesnake. Besides, we’re not even sure if he and Casey are together.”

Senna looked at Jackie with a knowing smirk.

“Yeah, I know… why don’t you text Casey.”

“I already did,” Sienna declared.  

“I should have known! Why don’t we head to the sportsbook ourselves? We can watch what’s happening and maybe get some dirt on Charlotte.”

“But isn’t it VIP-only?”

Holding up a gold-plated pass in her hand, Jackie started to pout. “And who do you think you’re hanging out with? I’m one of Panacea’s favorites, remember? Just stick with me.”

~~~~~ 

The two women waited impatiently at the entrance of the sportsbook while Ethan and Charlotte settled into a small table in a darkened corner of the room.

“We should just go in,” Sienna insisted.

“They’re not going to have sex on the bar in the next five minutes, Si! Relax.”

“I didn’t say they were! But I’m anxious to get on with it!”

A relieved smile spread on Jackie’s face when she saw Bryce leading the rest of the gang their way. “Well, it looks like we are on our way to doing that!”   

“You summoned, Jackie?” Bryce grinned.

"I did. Ethan’s in there with Charlotte, and we think he’s trying to cozy up to her for info, but….”

“Cozy being the operative word!” Sienna scowled.

“Well, just ask Casey,” Elijah interjected.

“We would, but she’s nowhere to be found,” Jackie sighed. “She hasn’t replied to our texts, and… I’m getting worried.”

“I’m sure she’s fine, but we could spread out and look for her,” Aurora offered. “One of us is bound to run into her.”  

“That’s not a bad idea,” Jackie agreed. “Since I’m the only one with a VIP pass, I’ll stay here and scope out Charlotte and Ramsey.”

“I’m staying too,” Sienna insisted. 

“I will, too,” Elijah grinned. “It’s not every day I get to conduct a heist in a place this swanky!”

“It’s not exactly a heist,” Jackie clarified.

“No matter; it’s still swanky!”

“I guess I’ll take Bryce, then. We’ll keep an eye for Declan and hopefully find Casey in the process.”

“Good plan!” Bryce nodded. “I’ll be your handsome arm candy, disarming people with this million-dollar smile.”

“On second thought,” Aurora cringed, “I’ll trade you for Elijah.” 

“Oh, hell no!” Jackie retorted. “You wanted the meathead? He’s all yours! Just keep your phones on. We have to be able to reach each other.”

“Don’t worry, Jackie,” Bryce winked, “With us on this… we’ll be done in no time.”

Aurora shook her head as she dragged him off. “Forgive me if I lack his confidence.”  

~~~~~ 

The three friends commandeered a perfect spot just feet away from Ethan & Charlotte, but obscured by several large plants, they could listen in without being seen.

“So, do we get to bet while we wait?” Elijah grinned.

“We’re not here to play!” Jackie reminded. “Let’s do what we’re here to do, and if we’re lucky, we can enjoy Vegas a bit before we head back to Boston.” 

Sienna peeked through the leaves to spy on the couple as their copious laughter filled the air. Ethan swirled a crystal glass of amber liqueur in his hand, and the server poured a fresh flute of  Dom Perignon for Charlotte.

“How much does she drink?” Sienna whispered.

“If it helps the cause, I hope a whole lot more,” Jackie replied. 

Charlotte raised her glass with a smile. “Cheers,” she beamed, bumping her glass against Ethan’s.  

“Again?” He sneered. “How many times are we toasting?”

“Are you complaining? I hope your beverage is to your satisfaction.”

“It’s quite good,” he stated. “But it takes more than this to satisfy me.”

“Well,” Charlotte cooed, “luckily for you, the night is still young.”

Several feet away, a red-faced Sienna jumped to her feet. “That’s it, I’m going to….”

“You’re going to sit down and shut up,” Jackie instructed.

“Order another. Remember, it’s on me.”

“One doesn’t gulp this sort of thing. It isn’t, say, Dom Perignon.”

Once again, Charlotte drew attention, laughing much more than she should, as Ethan shifted uncomfortably in his seat. Looking up, he caught Jackie’s eye, and with a slight nod, Jackie felt some reassurance.

“Did you see that!” she whispered to his friends. “I knew he was just trying to get her to spill. But, God knows if the old fool knows how to use his phone to record.”

“Jackie, he’s not old, that’s really rude, and I….”

“Not the time, Sienna!” Jackie spat. “Just get your phones ready. I’m putting mine in this plant; I’m not leaving this to chance.”

The three friends sipped their drinks and did their best to endure the nauseating conversation –Charlotte speaking in sexual innuendo and Ethan doing his best to keep her reeled in, yet far away – as the clock ticked on.

“This could go on all night,” Sienna complained.

“Well, the server just brought over another bottle of Dom. She’s either going to be passed out or signing soon. Hopefully the latter.”

Once Charlotte began to slur every third word, Ethan suggested they step out onto the balcony for some fresh air. Relishing the idea of sharing a more private venue with him, she eagerly complied. Jumping onto her stiletto-heeled feet, she lost her balance, and Ethan quickly offered his arm to assist. Charlotte rubbed against him provocatively, her hands caressing the lapels on his jacket. Plan or not, Sienna was seeing red.

“Dr. Ramsey, who knew you were such a knight in shining armor,” Charlotte giggled.

“If I’m your knight in shining armor, you needn't be so formal. Ethan will do just fine.”

“Oh, but Dr. Ramsey,” she purred, “this all plays into my little fantasy. You can’t deprive me of that.”

“I’m going to throw up,” Sienna cringed.

“No, we’re going to follow them… quietly,” Jackie stated. “If Ethan’s suffering this much, we have to at least make it worth his while.”

“But is he suffering?” Elijah asked in a pained voice. He was standing too close, they were laughing too much, and friends grew a little warier with every Dr. Ramsey that fell from Charlotte’s lips.

“I’ve got a bad feeling about this, guys,” Sienna frowned.

“And we can’t even hear them anymore,” Elijah sulked. “So who knows if he’s even getting any information.”

“I know,” Jackie agreed. “I hate to admit it, but I’m getting a weird feeling too. Si, maybe you should tell Casey not to come. We’re not sure what’s going on and….”

“Why shouldn’t I be here?”

The three friends turned at the sound of Casey’s voice, each one of their eyes wider than the next.

“What’s going on?”

“How did you get in here?” Jackie attempted to deflect. “It’s VIP only.”

“Really,” Casey smirked. “This dress, these heels, and the right amount of flirtation? I’ll get into any VIP lounge in Vegas. Now, what are you trying to….”

Her jaw dropped as she peered onto the balcony, catching Ethan and Charlotte inches away from what appeared to be a kiss. 

“He wouldn’t!” she gasped, taking a step toward them, but Jackie quickly pulled her friend back.

“We’re pretty sure he’s just trying to get information out of her.”

“Even if he is,” Casey fumed. “This is taking it too far!”

“But if he is and you barge out there now,  you could ruin any progress he’s made,” Jackie reasoned.  “And, honestly, I view this as a sacrifice on Ethan’s part.”

“I don’t care what you view it as! This is just….”

“I’m sorry, ma’am,” the manager interrupted as the group began to attract attention. “What seems to be the problem.”

Casey turned to the man with fire in her eyes. “My problem is that my….”

“Casey?” Ethan called from behind, looking mortified as he bumped into Casey with a leering Charlotte on his arm.

“Ethan…I…” her face turned from shock to rage before their eyes. “I can’t… I can’t believe you! I’m gone an hour and… and this!”

“Casey, wait,” Ethan pled, dropping Charlotte’s arm. “I can explain!”

“Explain what? I have eyes! You know what,” she said as tears of frustration sprang to her eyes, “You’re welcome to her. Just don’t think you’re coming anywhere near me again.”

Charlotte yanked Ethan’s arm when he attempted to rush after her.

“Where do you think you’re going? She has her friends. She’ll be fine.”

“Charlotte, I…”

Her eyes narrowed and lips pursed; she wasn’t a woman used to not getting her way.

“Look, she’s not just… she’s… she’s my intern,” Ethan breathed.

Charlotte’s demeanor changed at once.  

“Screwing your intern? So, that’s the intern!” Charlotte laughed. “Dr. Ramsey, you’re far more naughty than I gave you credit for… I like this side of you. But I assure you… you will be better entertained by a real woman tonight. Go,” she motioned to the door. “Go chase the pathetic child.  You have to make things right so she doesn’t squeal, and then you have issues. Hell, give her $50 to get ice cream with her little friends, but when you’re done… I’ll be waiting right here.”

It took all his power to conceal the array of emotions welling inside him.  It took more strength than he thought he possessed to restrain himself from telling her exactly what he thought of her. But thinking of the conversation recorded on his phone helped him keep his composure. Imagining Charlotte’s face when she realized he wasn’t returning tonight gave him conviction.  H could see this farce through a moment longer.  

“I’ll be back,” he lied convincingly.

“I’ll be waiting,” she cooed, as she took a seat at the bar. 

~~~~~ 

People in Vegas aren’t easily phased. But even in a city where anything goes, the sight of the handsome, six-foot-four, tuxedo-clad man hurdling through the halls like he was going for the Olympic gold… that turned some heads.

“Excuse me,” he said as he plowed through the crowd. Concerned, but not enough to see if anyone had toppled. Only two things mattered to him now: listening to the recording and clearing things up with Casey. He was hoping she was just a better actress than he realized.

Back in their suite, Jackie and Sienna tended to their weepy friend while Elijah was assigned to the door. They all knew it was only a matter of time before Ethan showed; at least, they hoped so. So when the bell rang, the door immediately opened.

“I was wondering how long it would take you to show.”

Ethan had no time for small talk. “Where is Casey?”

Elijah gestured toward the door leading to the east end of their suite. “She’s over there,” he started as Ethan bolted past him. “But, wait, I’m not sure she wants to see you!”

Ethan burst into the parlor to find a red-faced Casey flanked by her two friends. Jackie offered Ethan a sympathetic grin, but Sienna wasn’t as kind.

“You really shouldn’t be here,” her defensive friend barked, but Ethan remained undeterred.   

“Casey, we need to talk. You understand I was just trying to get information out of Charlotte, right? You can’t believe that I would….”

“Save it,” she snapped, silencing him. The fire that had been her eyes had been replaced with a steely resolve.  

“Casey….”

“I said I don’t want to hear it! There are lines, Ethan; no matter your reason, you crossed them!”

“Do you think I wanted to? I’d rather be mauled by tigers. But I got it!” He pulled the phone from his pocket with a flourish, but Casey remained unimpressed. “Here, please. Listen…”

Casey looked at the phone lying in his palm, then fixed her angry gaze on him before wordlessly retreating to the other side of the room.

“Well, if you’re not listening,” Jackie interjected. “I am. I don’t know the deal between you two, but you can sort it out later. We have bigger fish to fry. May we?” she asked. 

Ethan unlocked his phone and placed it on the table for all to hear.  Sienna and Elijah cautiously gathered around as well, but Casey didn’t budge. With her arms crossed defiantly in front of her chest, she stared at the lights of the glittering city below with her back to everyone. Still, she could feel that Ethan’s eyes never left her.  

Bryce and Aurora stumbled into the room and joined their friends at the table, curiously looking between Casey and everyone else. “Later,” Jackie mouthed as the recording began to play.

“I’m afraid I misjudged you, Dr. Ramsey. I thought you were an uptight, boring, do-gooder.”

“That’s what you thought?”

“It is… and I thought it was a shame. After all, anyone as handsome as you should never be that boring.”

“So what tipped you off that you were wrong?”

“The time you punched Declan! That was delicious! I’ve wanted to do that countless times!”

“So one sucker punch was all it took?”

“Of course not! I chalked it up to some savior complex… still part of  your good boy persona.”

“So what changed?”

“When I heard about you and that little intern of yours… hiding Naveen, breaking every rule… I knew there was more to you than meets the eye.”

“That could have been because Naveen is important to me.”

“Pfft.  Please! If you cared about Naveen, you wouldn’t have him holed off in an abandoned hospital corridor. You wanted the acclaim, Dr. Ramsey… and were willing to do anything to get it. That’s… fabulous! And selecting that nubile little intern… well, it doesn’t take the best doctor of a generation to figure out why she’d be your choice. I started to realize I might be wrong about you.”

“You’re more perceptive than most, Charlotte.”

“I know, and I was delighted to know you had that… edge.  Most forget that humans are designed to thrive on adrenaline. The greater the risk, the greater the payoff….”

“I couldn’t agree more. Do you know that when I was younger, before I finished my first year of med school, I bought a police radio to beat the paramedics to medical calls.  I would show up and tell them I was a doctor!” ”

“You didn’t!”

“I did!”

“But what if someone had… died?”

“They didn’t. But it was a rush.”

“When I was around that age, I snuck into the Lion exhibit at the Atlanta zoo.”

“And you got out with your life?”

“At the end of the day, they’re just big kitties. Nothing I can’t handle.”

“When I was in high school, a buddy and I filled a hundred empty beer bottles with water and sold them to a local frat.”

“If you’re trying to impress me, you’ll have to try harder! Call me when you’ve increased your company’s quarterly profits by 60% by inflating the wholesale prices of your most used drugs.”

“You’re lying! There is no way you could pull that off.”

“Wanna bet? It’s easy. We officially price the product at ten times retail. When Medicare pays for it, they pay the full amount. And we just offer it at 90% wholesale discount to all our other buyers. But that stays between us, of course.”

“Of course…”

“What is that commotion inside?”

“I’m not sure.”

“Well, I don’t appreciate the chaos.  Why don’t we head someplace more… private… Dr. Ramsey?”

“After you…”

“Holy shit!” Bryce exclaimed after Jackie pressed pause.

 “This is huge? Right?” Sienna asked. “This sounds huge!”

“Oh, it’s huge, all right,” Jackie confirmed.

Ethan nodded. “It’s classic Medicare fraud. This is the best thing she could have given us. The government only cares about bilking patients, cutting corners on research, or intentionally causing patient harm during election years… if it behooves them. But this, this will always get their attention and action.”

“It’s like getting Capone on tax matters,” Jackie chimed in.

“Exactly!” Ethan concurred, “and she provided a road map. It won’t be hard to follow this trail.”

“So what do we do next?” Aurora asked.

“I have an old Hopkins friend that works in the healthcare division at the DOJ. I trust him. I think I need to give him a call.”

“But we need more insurance,” Jackie interrupted. “You have your friends, but I have mine. Are you familiar with Angela DeJesus?”

“The reporter that got those two senators indicted?” Aurora asked. “She is badass!”

“She is, and she was also my college roommate. She was my BFF before I met any of you losers.”

Ethan’s smile grew to double its size. “Then I think we have some calls to make.”

The mood in the suite changed visibly after the calls were made.  That is for everyone except Casey. 

“I can’t believe this!” Jackie yelled as Bryce poured champagne for all.

“I can!” He grinned. “We have the damn dream team here, and we were going to do whatever it took to get this done!”

He handed Ethan a flute, “To the MVP!”

“The MVP!” Aurora yelled as the other three friends turned to Casey.

Sienna placed her champagne aside and joined her friend on the oversized leather sofa. “Case, you heard the recording. I think it’s pretty obvious he was just trying to get information. Maybe you should talk to him.”

Casey glanced at Ethan, quickly lowering her eyes when they met his. “Maybe… but not today. It’s been a long day, and….”

“But Casey, I think….”

“Sienna, I think it went too far. And do you have any idea how it felt to see him on someone's arm, kissing them… when I’ve had to be relegated to nothing but his little secret. I just… I have a lot to think about.”

“OK. But we’re about to go out and celebrate. Why don’t you come along and get your mind off of things? I doubt Ethan will want to join us.”

Casey smiled softly. “I appreciate it, Si. But I really want a hot bubble bath, then I want to slip between those Egyptian cotton sheets and sleep on that mattress that will forever be out of my price range. Can you convince the others to go without me? I’m not up for explanations right now.”

Sienna wrapped Casey in a hug. “Of course, you can count on me. Why don’t you sneak off to your room now? I’ll talk to them once you’re gone.”

With that, Casey stood up and stealthily made her way to the hallway; Ethan was the only one who noticed. Again, their brief eye contact gave him no direction; he had no idea where things stood.  

“OK, I dropped a few names and got us a VIP booth at the Hakkasan Nightclub,” Bryce grinned, “Let’s go take this party to the next level!”

“Let’s go!” Jackie hollered.

“What about Casey?” Aurora asked.

“Uh, she may join us a little later,” Sienna informed, “but she isn’t feeling up to it right now.”

“Are you kidding? Do you know how hard it was to get this….”

“Bryce!” Sienna glared. “No!”

“Uhm, OK,” he backed off. “So what do you say, big guy?” Bryce said, tapping Ethan too firmly on the back. “Care to join us?”

“No, I think I’m going to turn in.  I accomplished what I came to Vegas for, now… I just want to sleep off the jet lag.”

“Are you sure, Ethan?” Jackie queried. “You’re the reason we have something to celebrate.”

“Trust me,” he smiled sadly, “you’ll have more fun without me there.”

“OK then,” Sienna frowned. “But if you change your mind….”

“I  know where to find you.”

~~~~~

The silence in his room was almost deafening.  He didn’t give much thought to how he would be spending this night, but it certainly wasn’t like this. He removed his bowtie with a sigh and tossed it onto the nightstand; his cufflinks quickly followed. He picked up his phone and considered calling Casey, but he thought it best to let her be… for now. He poured himself a Scotch and sat at the foot of the bed with the drawn curtains covering the beautiful view he had paid extra to see. It wasn’t worth taking it in alone. 

He tried to take solace in thinking about Panacea’s future woes, even letting out a chuckle when he pictured Declan in handcuffs. Still, the victory was shallow without Casey by his side. He just hoped this was a temporary setback, nothing more serious.

He was about to turn in when someone was furiously knocking at his door.  Startled, he jumped to his feet to answer.  

“Hi,” Casey beamed, leaning seductively against the door frame. “YOU are impressive! That was some outstanding work, Dr. Ramsey….”

He looked both directions down the hall to be sure no one was around, then he wasted no time pulling her into his arms.

“You little minx!” He scolded. “Do you have any idea how worried I was? I know we discussed the plan with Charlotte, but the way you were acting… I thought I was in the doghouse for sure!”

“I’m just that good,” she bowed. “I needed to make it convincing, and if I convinced you, then hopefully I convinced the others too.”

“I’m impressed,” he exclaimed as his lips fell to her neck.  “Butt you’re still going to pay for what you put me through.”

“Oh no!” Casey yelled, pushing him away. “I may have to suck up knowing where those lips have been for the benefit of greater society – but there is no way those lips are not touching me until they’ve been rinsed with acid! Have you rinsed with acid, Ethan?”

“Would Scotch suffice?”

“Absolutely not!” Casey asserted as she plopped onto his bed. “Go brush your teeth, use half a bottle of Listerine, and burn your toothbrush! After that, we’ll talk.”

Ethan turned and chuckled, more than content with the view of her sprawled across his bed. 

“We’re going to do much more than talk, Rookie.  I’ll be back.”

When he returned from the bathroom, Casey had set up champagne for the two of them to toast.  The first thing Ethan did was open the curtains so they could share the view together, and it wasn’t long before they found themselves locked in a lingering kiss.

“So you’re not mad at me?” he asked, still needing reassurance.

“Are you kidding? You brought down the evil empire!” she teased, “Do you have any idea how sexy that is?”

“I don’t,” he smirked, “but you could always show me.”

“Oh, I plan to,” she sang, tossing herself back onto his bed.  “Are we going to celebrate?”

The devilish look in her eyes and seductive smile was replaced with a look of concern when Ethan didn’t immediately follow.

“What’s wrong? You’re not pulling another Miami on me now, are you?”

“Need I remind you that we already broke this room in?”

“No,” she blushed, “I remember it quite well.”

“It’s just that… we’re in Vegas. I’m all for returning here for private debauchery later on, but we should go celebrate in style.”

“But we just staged this whole quasi-breakup so my friends won’t think we’re together. We can’t just go mingle in the casino now.”

“I’m not sure if you’re aware, but there is more than one casino in Vegas.”

Casey tossed a pillow in his direction. “I’m aware, smartass.”

“We can head to the Palms, Downtown… I doubt the crowd from this convention will be there when they’re being spoiled for free here.  And Bryce got your cohorts a VIP booth at Hakkasan. They won’t be leaving.  That means you and I can go out and have fun… like a real,  regular couple. What do you say?”

“A real, regular couple,” she giggled as his lips were back at her neck, dragging down to her collarbone, his tongue gliding across her chest. “That sounds good, but you better stop it if you expect me to leave this room.”

“What?” He teased. “I’m just giving you a taste of what will be waiting for you when we get back. But what will you tell your friends?”

Casey sighed warily. “They know a few of my friends from med school are here for the conference, and I can tell them I’m going to see them and convince them I’m staying with them for the night.  It’s just….”

“Just?”

“I hate lying to them like this.”

“I know, baby.  But it’s not forever.”

“I know. But tonight,” she said, jumping to her feet. “Take me out and show me a good time, Dr. Ramsey….”

“I’m going to show you a good time, all right, but… just for tonight… can you lose that Dr. Ramsey? Just for tonight. I’m having flashbacks.”

Casey smiled the brightest smile, and it was one he would never forget.  “You’ve got it.  Now let’s go!”

Ethan and Casey snuck down to the lobby and slid into a limousine he ordered.

“You know an Uber would have done the job just fine, right?” She winked.

“Yes.  But we’re celebrating, remember?” Handing Casey a flute of champagne, he grinned.  “It’s a big day; I want to go all out.”

“Considering this is our second bottle of champagne in twenty minutes, I think we’re off to a good start!”

And off to a good start they were, but it was only that… a start. Already drunk in love, neither was prepared for just how amazing it would feel to be out together.  Alone, unencumbered, free to hold hands to kiss, to flirt… the rush was much greater than they expected.  Casey happily sat on Ethan’s lap as they played the slot machines.  Partaking in more bubbly, the two giggled and kissed ferociously until they earned harsh stares from fellow casino goers. 

“Come on, it’s Vegas…” a tipsy Casey protested.  “This is legal here!”

The next stop was the tables.  Ethan wanted to show her how to play, and she was eager to learn.  First up was roulette, then baccarat.  They switched to martinis and attempted to keep their hands off each other as they played. But in time, keeping their hands off each other proved too great a burden.  They found a quiet but still public corner of the casino floor, and the joyously inebriated couple began to make out like teenagers.  Completely forgetting where they were, Ethan’s hands started landing on places they just shouldn’t in public. They were so enraptured with each other that neither noticed the security guard who had been summonsed to reign them in. Only parting when he gruffly coughed to get their attention.  

“OK, you two… you should probably take this back to your room.  You can’t be doing this here.”

“But it’s Vegas….” Casey whined.

“Yes, it is,” the guard laughed.  “But we still have rules.”

“We’re sorry,” Casey couldn’t stop giggling as she apologized. “We’re just… we’re celebrating.”

“I see that, but you still can’t do that here.  Come on, kids, take it back to your room.”

Casey’s giggles turned to full-on laughing as she shoved Ethan’s shoulder. 

“He called you a kid! He’s drunker than we are!”

Exiting the casino floor, they swerved and swayed down the halls, intent on making it to the Rojo Lounge.  After all, they figured they needed more drinks. Plus, they were sure they could find a dark corner to get frisky in without a guard ruining their fun.

But they never made it. Ethan sat on the side of a fountain in the lobby, and Casey sat next to him.  Within minutes, Ethan was lavishing kisses on her wrist, her arm, her shoulder, and her neck.  He stopped to whisper the risqué things he wanted to do to her in her ear.  Eager to start what he was planning, Casey jumped up and quickly lost her balance, falling back into the fountain.

“It’s OK,” she insisted. If her cheeks hadn’t already red from alcohol, they’d be red from embarrassment right now. “I’m fine,” she said, trying to save face.  “Only my legs got wet.” Taking off a shoe, she tilted it to empty water, and Ethan started to roar with laughter. 

That’s when they noticed their old friend.  The security guard from the casino was wrapping up his shift in the lobby.   

“Look, kids… didn’t I warn you? Are you staying at the hotel?”

“Yes,” Casey slurred, “We are staying at a hotel.”

“Not a hotel, young lady.  This hotel?”

Ethan shook his head vigorously, “No. Not this one.”

“Do you know which one you’re staying at?”

Ethan stretched his arms wide, nearly striking a passerby in the process.  “A big one. A really, really big one,” he laughed.

Casey found it hysterical and began laughing, too, then she fell back into the fountain again. 

“OK, that’s it!” The guard barked. “Fun time is over.”

“No,” Ethan leered. “Fun time starts when we get back to our room!”

Somehow they ascertained that they were staying at the MGM Grand, and the kind but increasingly frustrated guard got them in a taxi and sent them on their way.  The two of them hung out the windows waving to him as they left… and that is all they could remember. 

~~~~~

They never drew the curtains again, and while the view was just as beautiful during the day, Casey was not in a place to appreciate the sun. Lying on her stomach with her head at the foot of the bed, she groggily moaned as he attempted to raise her head. Her blonde hair was beyond unkempt as it shot in every direction, and the last thing she wanted to do was get up.  But if she didn’t block out that sun, she was quite convinced that she would die.

So, with much effort, she sat upright and dangled her legs off the side of the bed. Ethan was still passed out, looking peaceful, without a care in the world.  Casey attempted to smile before deciding it was too painful. Using the wall to prevent herself from falling, she made her way to the window and successfully pulled the curtains shut. 

She made a mental note to figure out some things later.  Like why they were both partially dressed.  Why they were lying in different directions in bed.  But, most importantly, what was this crap falling out of her hair.  But right now, none of that mattered. She needed to go back to sleep.   

What she wouldn’t give to have the ingredients for her special hangover cure in his room. Since she didn’t have that, she decided some Advil and water would help soothe her pounding head.  She dropped the contents of her purse to the floor and found the bottle she needed.  She walked to a table in the corner of the room and poured herself a glass of water when something caught her eye.

She adjusted the lampshade, so the light wouldn’t shine directly in her eyes as she gingerly lifted a piece of paper from the table. Confident her eyes were still too blurry to read, she blinked, hoping to get a better look.  She blinked again, then again when she realized no amount of blinking would change what she saw.

“Oh my… God…” she gasped. “No, no, no, no, no, no, no!”

This had to be a joke.  Something they picked up in a souvenir shop. There was no way… then she saw another sheet of paper that appeared much more official than the decorative one she held in her hand. Her hangover was suddenly gone, replaced with a headache that made the pain she was experiencing before pale in comparison.

“ETHAN!” she rushed to the side of the bed, shaking him vigorously when he didn’t stir. “Ethan! You need to wake up. RIGHT NOW! Something… something has happened.”

Ignoring her, he pulled a pillow over his head, muttering a string of unintelligible words. Becoming irate, Casey yanked the pillow away.

“I’m not joking! Something terrible has happened! We need to talk!”

“Rookie,” he groaned. “I’m very hung over. How terrible are we talking? Because if it’s less than a 9 on a scale of 1-10, it can wait.”

“Oh yeah? Well, how is a 200 on a scale of 1-10? Get up, NOW!”  

“Fine,” he grumbled. “OW!” He cried, bracing his head as he sat up. Casey lovingly handed him a cup of water and two pills.

“Here,” she sighed. “Trust me… you’re going to need this!”  

“Did we murder someone?” he asked facetiously.

“Not to my knowledge.”

“OK, then how bad can it be.  Let it out.”

“What do you remember about last night?”

Ethan's eyes opened wide, then he shut them again, rubbing them as he continued.  “You may need to give me a few… but the last thing I remember is that guard shoving us into the car at The Palms. Why?”

“Well, that’s the last thing I remember, too.  I assure you,” she quivered, shoving the two documents into his hands.  “I don’t remember this.”

Ethan’s eyes opened like saucers, and it was now his turn to be instantly cured of his hangover.

“WHAT!” He gasped.  “We… we didn’t?”

“I mean, it would explain the confetti on the floor, the birdseed in my hair, and that bouquet on the chair.”

“What… what did we do?”

“Well, we may not remember it… but it looks like we got married.”

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[toasttt11]

partner

October 4, 2021

Luca walked into his musical theater poetry class and saw the students standing around no one sitting down and saw on the board they were changing seats for the rest of the semester.

Luca turned when he saw someone standing next to him and saw Julianna, “Hi Luca.” Julianna softly greeted him.

“H-Hi!” Luca stumbled over his words but beamed at her.

Julianna softy smiled at the very cute boy and before she could say anything else their teacher walked in and started telling everyone where to sit.

“Julianna Hughes.” The teacher pointed to the seat, “Luca Fantilli.” The teacher pointed to the seat next to Julianna.

Luca perked up realizing he would he sitting with her for then next few months. He stepped in front of her and pulled out her chair for her. Julianna smiled in thanks and sat down with Luca sitting down next to her.

“So Adam’s your brother?” Julianna softly questioned, she watched as his face softened completely at the mention of Adam and anyone could tell he adored his brother.

“Yeah. And Luke’s your brother?” Luca nodded and watched as her face lite up at the mention of her baby brother.

“Yeah he’s my brother.” Julianna proudly nodded always looking proud of any of her brothers.

“So Adam said your gymnast?” Luca looked at her curiously wanting to know more about her.

“Yeah, i’ve been doing it since i could walk.” Julianna anwsered having loved her sport since she could remember, “And obviously you play hockey?” Julianna asked sarcastic with a slight smirk.

“Yeah.” Luca laughed nodding at her teasing.

The two shared a look and one more smile before turning to the front of the class focusing on their teacher.

Luca still kept looking over at Julianna, Julianna was writing down her work but had a small smile feeling his eyes on her.

The teacher started explaining a project they would be starting and doing with a partner for the next few weeks.

“So?” Luca turned to her looking nervous.

“So?” Julianna copied him turning around and softly teased him with a smile.

“Can i be your partner?” Luca nervously questioned.

“Yeah, i’d like that.” Julianna soflty nodded giving him a small smile.

[storiesofsvu]

WIP Ask Game

RULES: Make a new post with the names of all the files in your WIP folder, regardless of how non-descriptive or ridiculous. Let people send you an ask with the title that most intrigues them, and then post a little snippet or tell them something about it! And then tag as many people as you have WIPs.

thanks for the tag @thenightmaredrowns here we go...at least all my wips are in a singular folder this time LOL

Amanda Preg fluff

Amanda-love of life move on w someone else

Borin fluff drabble

Bryan teasing wip

Carisi-kid angst

Casey- hurt comfort

Club sandwich WIP

CM ladies-bi h/c

Derek Morgan soft smut squirting WIP

DiNozzo comfort smut

Dom Drop WIP (blake?)

Dom!casey baseball smut

Emily h/c wip

Emily secret marriage

Emily smut

Holiday cards-heather

Olivia- fwb- angst

Poly!Barhoun at a sex club

Poly! Barhoun pegging

Public Emily smut

Rita 2nd chair smut

Sledding-Grace-Bingo

Sonny sexy fluffy wip-oral Bingo

Sonya masturbation-bingo

Sub!Rita wip

Super fluffy first kiss w Addison wip

Tara fluff home for holidays

Tara smut wip

Velasco- cabin for Bingo

Now.. that's just the one shots. LOL. here's the series

Alex Blake (redacted) outline-post ethan h/major comfort

Barba & the cam girl

Barth post divorce x rita's paralegal

Heather x yn w a super toxic ex

Heather & the stripper

Heather's plaything-> poly/open marriage

Hotch x the babysitter

Mob Boss!Rita Calhoun AU

Poly!Heather x Jackie x reader political thriller

Amelia Shepherd x derek's ex series

Rita Secret kid potential?

Side of Softness

Svu Criminal Minds crossover

Unexperienced Hotch x reader series

Vampire!Rita Calhoun AU

Bestie Barhoun harvard AU ft Barisi, Barhoun, Rollhoun

There's no way I'm tagging 45 people, but I'll tag some friends and hopefully them and the rest of y'all will be intrigued and send in some asks!

@rustyzebra @maybe-a-humanbean @baubeautyandthegeek @blackbird-brewster @adarafaelbarba @d33pd3sire-blog @leftoverenvy @maximoffcarter @plaidbooks @whiteberryx

[lilyoffandoms]

2023 Choices Fic Recap

Saw @aallotarenunelma list of 2023 fics and thought it was such a cool idea so I had to steal it. Here are all the fics/drabbles I wrote for the Choices fandom this past year (excluding drabbles I sent as asks).

Here is to another beautiful year of trying to write writing and sharing! May your new year find you with all the time, all the motivation, and all the words to write all the stories your heart contains!!

January

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele)

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

February Kiss (Tyril x Maiele)

ID Drabble (Cas x Saini) for aallotarenunelma

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

LoA Drabble (Gabe x Lex)

Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele + family)

TPA Drabble (Rowan x Elliot)

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

Pick Your Poison (Arthur/Artura x Guinevere, Lancelot x Guinevere)

Regret (Arthur x Guinevere, Lancelot x Guinevere)

Blades Drabble (Mal x Daenarya, Tyril x Maiele)

Guinevere Drabble (Lancelot x Guinevere)

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

Blades Drabble (Mal x Daenarya + boys) for storyofmychoices

Guinevere Drabble (Lancelot x Guinevere)

February

OPH Drabble (Tobias x Casey, Bryce x Olivia, Ethan x Merida)

TRR Drabble (Hana x Eclipsa) for noesapphic

Nightbound Drabble (Nik x Alex) for ladylamrian

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

OPH Drabble (Bryce x Jensen) for mydemonsdrivealimo

Nightbound Drabble (Nik x Alex) for ladylamrian

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

March

Doctor, Doctor (Bryce x Kyrie)

RCD Drabble (Thomas x Alex) for storyofmychoices

OPH Drabble (Bryce x Olivia) for storyofmychoices

Blades Drabble (Maiele & Daenarya)

Blades Drabble (Mal x Daenarya) for storyofmychoices Blades Poem (Mal x Daenarya) for storyofmychoices

RCD Drabble (Thomas x Alex) for storyofmychoices

April

WtD Drabble (Troy x Saeed)

most of the month was spent on a personal project

“Does not the human decorum suggest you sit opposite side the table?” he laughed merrily.

“But I do so like my own skin too much to risk being at the disadvantage of having my back to the door,” she smiled a knowing smile at him.

“Then you must be the one to protect our skins both for I will do as decorum requires and not draw ourselves undue attention.” Teigran looked them both over and her lips quirked into a smile again. “Your point is understood,” he laughed. “Less noticeable than an elf and a dwarf sitting to sup in a human town.”

May

spent this month working on a personal project

"Tell me the secrets you require,” he leaned in to whisper.

His face was bright and flushed from the warm room, and she expected, a bit from the excitement of a mission and the promise of more.

June

spent this month on the same personal project

Sleep came fitfully that night. The memories of her coming to the surface. Always so kind. Always so demanding. Even in childhood.

She tried to bring those memories to the surface in hopes that she would speak to her again in dreams and give her more to go on. It was in vain, Teirgan knew this, but she needed more to go on.

July

Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele, Mal x Daenarya)

Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele, Mal x Daenarya)

August

11 Drabbles (multiple pairings & books) for the participants of the August Challenge)

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

ID Drabble (Kalen & Saini)

September

CoP AU Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)

Blades Drabble (Maiele & Daenarya)

WtD Drabble (Troy x Saeed)

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Sofia) with trappedinfanfiction’s MC

OPH Drabble (Bryce x Olivia, Tobias x Casey, Ethan x Merida)

October

Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele)

Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele)

Nightbound Drabble (Nik x Alex) for ladylamrian

Blades Drabble (Maiele & gang)

Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele, Mal x Daenarya)

Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele, Mal x Daenarya, Daenarya x Maiele, Mal x Tyril)

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel, Luke x Ruby)

Blades Drabble (Maiele & OC) for storyofmychoices

WtD Drabble (Troy x Saeed)

Blades Drabble (Nia x Astra) for stars-are-within-me

CoP Drabble (Trystan x MC) for stars-are-within-me

November

Mal x Daenarya for storyofmychoices

Tobias x Casey for jerzwriter

Aerin x Raine for oh-so-youre-a-nerd

Thomas x Jackie for peonyblossom

Blades Drabble (Aerin x MC) for oh-so-youre-a-nerd and baldwinboy5ive

Blades Drabble (Aerin x Raine) for oh-so-you’re-a-nerd

December

CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel) and Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele)

CoP & LoA Crossover Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel, Aislinn x Lex x Gabe)

[coffeeheartaddict2]

When Life has other plans 13/16

Begin Again

Book: Open Heart (AU)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC Casey Valentine

Category: angsty fluff with a side of smut

Rating: Mature

Warnings: Language, sexual content, mentions of bio attack and mental illness

Word count: 3511

Summary: The fallout from the attack. Ethan and Casey start exploring what could be, funeral for Bobby and Danny. Ethan and Tobias open a dialogue and both have hopes of reconciliation. June starts to evaluate her position at Edenbrook and the team.

Disclaimer: characters belong to Pixelberry

Authors note: We are post attack now, there is still some angsty moments but nowhere near as intense as the attack. And that also means a strong smell of the happy ending.

🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼

It was the day after the attack. The hospital was slowly coming back to normal function after being shut down after the attack. It all looked normal but there was an air of sadness, shock and anguish that could not be ignored. Those directly involved with the discovery of the cure and the staff who provided support to Danny and Raf whilst they were in the coma were encouraged to have the day off and were offered counselling to work through any grief and any mental anguish that they have endured. This would also be offered to the hospital as a whole but the priority was those who were exposed the most.

Ethan knew he should not have been there. He went home and fell into a deep and exhausted sleep but he awoke with a nightmare of Casey dying in his arms. He could not get back to sleep so he went and sat in her room, watching her to reaffirm to himself that she did make it. Casey woke up and was surprised to see Ethan. He breathed a sigh of relief when she woke up. He asked how she slept and informed her that Rafael was improving.

He moved closer to her and squeezed her hand. Casey smiled weakly.

“Did you sleep well?”

“No, yes, I did fall into a sleep as I was exhausted from then I had a nightmare…” he takes another breath before continuing. “After that I ha hi d to come and see you, to see for myself that you did make it.”

“I made it Ethan, I am alive, yes it was traumatic, but I am here.” Adamantly stated Casey. Ethan leaned over and kissed the top of her head.

“As much as I am liking the visit, head home, rest, I am not going anywhere.” Ethan reluctantly left. He knew Casey was right but he could not help but worry. He stopped off at Derry’s to buy a coffee and went home. He emailed Naveen. Even though he and Casey had not discussed being in the open and how that would look but he felt it imperative that he get the ball rolling.

To Naveen,

I am emailing you to advise that I am in a relationship with Dr Casey Valentine. I have made her aware of my intent of being open about this and we will of course discuss in due course but I wanted to let you know so that we can get the ball rolling.

Regards

Dr Ethan Ramsey.

When Naveen had read the email he could not help but feel happy for his mentee. He knew that both him and Casey were more than capable of working well together, no matter what their relationship circumstances happened to be so he was happy if reporting lines stayed the same but at the end of the day he knew that call would be made by HR but he was hopeful that there would be a solution.

Casey’s physical condition improved over the following week. Her discharge day was the day of the funeral for Bobby and Danny. It was bittersweet. Casey was thankful that a cure was found and that she survived but there was the questions of why me, how is it fair? Going around in her head. Medical leave from work was approved and any counselling she knew would be taken care of however a part of her wanted to seek some type of normalcy. She went to the funeral, hoping it would give closure. In a way it did but she was unable to feel. She felt numb, cut off, the feeling was disconcerting. She felt so disconnected that she barely noticed that the wake was nearly over. Ethan came over to Casey and gave her a hug. “Come on, let’s go.”

He walked her to his car and they drove off.

“How does the weather know?”

“How does the weather know what Casey?”

“How did it know that today was a day of grey and misery?”

Ethan did not know what to say. He had intended to drive her home but at this point changed his mind, he was going to bring her to his.

It was not until they pulled up at Ethan’s building that she realized. They made their way to his apartment. He poured himself a glass of scotch and offered one to Casey which she accepted.

“I know that you must be going through so much. You seem, almost distant..”

“I am numb, numb and disconnected. I thought the funeral would give me a sense of closure, but I have felt so disconnected from anything…”

He kisses her, it was emotion charged. It caught Casey off guard but she returned the kiss. The kisses got more emotionally charged and heated. Ethan pulled away slightly, he rubbed his thumb along her jawbone.

“We don’t need to go any further tonight”

“I know Ethan, but I want to.”

She kisses him. Hungrily. He ran his hands down her side, reacquainting himself with her curves. He unzips her dress and discards it. He looks at her underwear. He kisses her gently on the lips before kissing the column of her neck. He tweaks her hardened nipples through her bra, eliciting a moan from Casey. He unhooks her bra and lavishes attention on her breasts. Casey feels even more aroused. She knew she was drenched. His hand made its way between her legs. He could feel how wet she was. He let out a groan and laid waist to her underwear. He ran a finger around her clit. Casey moaned as she bucked her hips. As much as Ethan wanted to fuck her pain away, he also wanted to savour this night. He positioned himself between her legs. He kissed the inside of her thigh, slowly. Casey quivered in anticipation and he ran his tongue around her clit. Again she moaned and bucked her hips. Ethan then ran his tongue through her folds before entering. He continued to eat her out, being guided by her moans and screams. He worked his way back up to her clit and inserted two fingers.

“Fuck…” she screamed, as he hit that spot from the get go. He moved his other hand up to her breast and massaged it. Casey could not recall when she last felt so much sensory overload. She was fast hurtling towards the precipice of what felt like an intense orgasm. She clenched his fingers and he knew she was close. He pumped her harder and sucked a little harder. Casey fell, screaming. He helped her ride it out. Casey felt like she was floating. He kissed her, the taste of her in his mouth was intoxicating. He got up and picked her up, he took her to his bedroom. He placed her down and she kissed him again, this time removing his clothing. She ran her hands along his hardened cock. He hissed. She then walked backwards towards his bed. They kiss again and Casey moves so that she is straddling him. He leans over to his top drawer and grabs a condom. He puts it on and then Casey slowly works her way down. It did not take long for her body to readjust to his size. Once he was fully sheathed she started to rock her hips. He thrust up causing her to moan. She rode him, harder than what she would have liked to have started with but the intensity of the previous orgasm is what she was chasing. Ethan kept pace, enjoying being fully inside her for real and not just in his lust fueled thoughts. He sucked her nipples which caused her to yell “fuck”. Before long Casey could feel she was getting close. Ethan could feel it too and with his thumb, massaged her clit. The sensation had Casey hurtling to again another intense orgasm. She fell and her climax triggered Ethan’s. After a few minutes she eased herself off and cuddled into Ethan. Casey then started to cry. She had wanted to all day, all week even but she could not, no matter how hard she tried. Ethan let her cry, assuring her that she was ok, and to let it all out. She cried herself to sleep. Ethan fell asleep not long after. He was relieved that Casey was able to let her emotions out and that she was in his arms.

Ethan awoke first the next morning. He tried to gently get out of bed but Casey started to stir.

“I did not mean to wake you” he said gently.

“I was waking up, it’s fine, I had no nightmare last night, plus with our activities, I actually feel rested.

Ethan smiled.

“I have a late start today but did you want to stay here, however long you feel you need?”

Casey stretched whilst she thought about it. Either staying here or at her apartment would mean long hours alone but decided here. After last night she knew she would not be treated like a fragile object and that is what she needed.

“I would like to stay here, but I will need some clothes.”

Ethan squeezed her hand.

“I can drop you to yours on my way to work.” He leaves the room and comes back with a key ring. This is so you can get back into the apartment and come and go as needed.”

Casey smiled. “Thank you Ethan.”

Ethan went to make breakfast while Casey had a shower. She joined Ethan for breakfast and he dropped her at her apartment. She made her way to her room and got changed first. She then packed a bag of clothes to take with her. She then went back to Ethan’s. She used the time alone to research the therapists she had the details of and booked one and had her first appointment a few days later.

She had a nap and woke with a start. It took her awhile to gain her bearings as to where she was. Just then there was a sound of a door opening. Casey got scared until she heard Ethan call out. She made her way to the living area. He could see she was scared.

“I had a nap and I woke with a start and I had only just got my bearings when you came back.”

He gave her a hug and kissed the top of his head.

“Everything is ok, Casey” he whispered. She went to pour them both some drinks whilst Ethan cooked dinner.

They enjoyed their meal and sat on the couch after dinner.

Casey told him how she was going to start therapy. Ethan was relieved she was going to seek professional help. He wanted to start a discussion around what a relationship would look like when she returned to work but he also wanted to savour this time also. Casey was relieved that she knew where she stood in relation to Ethan but she did not want to think too much on it right now. If she was being honest, she wanted to be fucked into oblivion again. The pleasant memories of last night came flooding back and she felt the familiar sensation at her core. She kissed Ethan, gently at first then more passionately. She then moved his hand to her centre.

“I know there are better coping mechanisms but I need you to fuck me.” She whispered in his ear. As much as Casey was right, there were more healthier ways to cope, he could not help but feel aroused so he obliged, as in a way he felt it would help make up for lost time.

They went several intense rounds, Casey fell into a blissful sleep and Ethan followed not long after. For nearly a fortnight it was a pattern that would be followed, work, dinner and mind blowing sex. After a couple of therapy sessions, Casey was given some more coping strategies which helped her not needing to use sex as a crutch. Casey was also starting to miss her friends also. Ethan understood but told Casey she was welcome to come over any time.

After nearly three weeks Casey returned to her apartment. She was used to the alone time whilst she was at Ethan’s but here it felt eerie. She knew that anyone on the night shift would be sleeping and that she was not alone but it was disconcerting.

Meanwhile back at Edenbrook Ethan was missing Casey, not only personally but professionally. He hoped she would be back at work soon, even if it was only part time. He was making his way back to the office when a familiar voice called out.

“Ethan, wait up” called out Tobias.

Ethan looked at his former friend perplexed.

“What are you doing here?”

“Meeting with the board, we will be doing research into the cure for the toxin and publishing it.”

“Congratulations” said Ethan. “Maybe even other toxins could be treated with this cure too.”

“Yeah? Maybe, hey listen, did you want to grab a coffee and catch up?”

Ethan looked at his watch, he had nothing on so he agreed. He suggested Derry Roasters.” Tobias agreed. They had coffee there before, a long time ago, an olive branch had been offered but it was declined and the memories of that haunted Tobias still but they were both older now and he hoped that they could put away the ghosts of their past.

They ordered their coffees and snacks and sat down. Tobias enquired as to how Casey and Raf were going, the team, and how Ethan was going with everything. Ethan was surprised when Tobias was not surprised when he stated that he was seeing Casey.

“You had been the talk of the post hospital grapevine, June for awhile was possessed on finding out the deal with you both but there was some interactions and dare I say an over protective posture that I had never seen from you that made me question the more scandalous rumours but seeing you with Casey that night solidified that any feelings were genuine.” Said Tobias.

“Well there’s truth to the rumours in that we did sleep together whilst she was in her intern year but it had nothing to do with the competition.”

“I figured that much, you have never been one for sexual favours, let alone entering into a relationship easily so she must be someone special.”

“She is, she helped me with Naveen, hell, she even did not give up on him when I did, we have had a rough patch but I feel we have come out the other side.”

Tobias was happy to hear this. He saw first hand how a reluctance in romantic relationships not only affected what was a good relationship but also his and Ethan’s friendship. Tobias wanted to chat further but he had to get back to work and so did Ethan.

“Well it was good to catch up bu…I mean Ethan. We must do so again.”

“I would very much like that, Tobias.”

Tobias could not believe how easy it was to slip back at calling Ethan buddy like he did for nearly three quarters of medical school and he was hopeful they could reconcile. Ethan too was optimistic, he had missed Tobias’s friendship a lot over the past 13 or so years and he hoped they could be friends again now.

A few days later Casey was again home alone, therapy had been going well and she was now eager to go back to work but the memories of what happened and who the hospital lost was haunting her. She had not even brought herself to meet Ethan at the hospital but little did she know that she was going to push herself out of her comfort zone. There was a knock at the door. It was Farley, their landlord. He had come with a sweet smelling bunch of flowers. She was mid thanking him when she noticed a mark on his wrist that he kept scratching. She asked him what was up, he said not much, the mark had been there for a bit but he was over his eyes seeing his gaming screen too bright. When questioned as to why he had not seen anyone about it, he stated that the deductible was too low. Casey stated that she worked as apart of a team that could do it pro bono. Farley was intrigued and she said “go get a coat, I will take you to the free clinic at Edenbrook and go from there.” Casey was now terrified but she knew that if she did nothing, neither would Farley. She found her new pink and grey sweater dress that Ethan had purchased and her leggings and met Farley. They made their way to Edenbrook and the free clinic.

“So far so good” Casey thinks to herself. They are met by Jackie and she takes them both in and immediately she notices Farley’s reaction to the light. Casey shows Jackie the rash and they agree he needs to be admitted. Casey took over from there stating that she would put him under the team.

Casey and Farley made their way to the team office. She was nervous for multiple reasons but ensuring something was done to get Farley healthy again was helping her keep it together.

They came to the office. Ethan looks up and is surprised to see Casey. He recognised the outfit he bought for her, and it looked better on her than what he thought. He decided to stay seated while acassy told him about what was going on. Ethan agreed to take Farley on and he paiged Sarah to take him to the patient room.

“Thanks Ethan, if I did not bring him he would have done nothing.”

He noted the fear in her voice.

“And how are you Casey, this is the first time you have been here since the attack.”

Casey took a breath. “I am keeping it together, ensuring Farley got some care has helped me keep it together. I am grateful for the push.”

Ethan nodded. They had not yet spoken how their relationship would look like at work so he gave her hand a gentle squeeze. Casey smiled weakly and could see the conflicted desire swirling in Ethan’s eyes.

“I’ll come over later” she said and Ethan stated

“Don’t you dare change that outfit.”

Casey blushed and took her leave.

Meanwhile, June was having her session with a therapist. Ever since the attack she had questioned if her thirst for knowledge had impacted on her missing the red flags that lead to the attack. Even before the attack she could see that Casey was a good doctor who kept on improving, her contributions were always more than token and yet she still had the desire to only care about how her relationship with Ethan affected the team, for which she clearly saw that it did not. She had always wanted to know what made people tick and would use whatever means necessary to do so but this obsession killed two people needlessly. It was difficult to come to terms with, even the team as a whole missed the flags, explaining it away as over concern but Travis’s actions was text book revenge and she missed it. Today June decided that she needed a new work challenge. Sure Edenbrook had the best diagnostics team that she had enjoyed working on but maybe a change is what she needed. She knew Ethan was not going anywhere anytime soon and if she was been honest with herself, she could see Casey running the team one day. She needed to plan and would submit her resignation further down the line. It was scary starting somewhere new but she felt she needed to.

Later that day Casey was still at the hospital. The more she was there, the easier being there was. She also wanted to keep informed of what was happening with Farley. She bumped into Ethan and continued with him towards the emergency department. They arrived just as an ambulance pulled up and opened the doors. Ethan took charge and they paramedic went through the particulars.

Female, mid 50’s, found on the street, collapsed and in and out of consciousness. The gurney was brought in and Ethan froze. The woman that the paramedic was describing was Louise Ramsey. Casey looked at the arms and noted the needle marks.

“Ethan, this woman has overdosed, she needs naloxone.”

Ethan jolted back to reality and got the drug and administered it. The nurses took over from there.

Casey wanted to talk to Ethan about it.

“I know you want to talk but I need to be alone for a little bit. I’m sorry” he says, with a pained expression before walking off to an on call room.

He is awash with all sorts of emotion and he kicks a bin.

He lets out a groan of frustration and ponders what to do next.

—-

Authors note: and I will end it there. The next chapter will deal with Louise, and some more Tobias and Ethan reconciliation action and chapter 15 will be the last of the angstish moments with 16 being the happy ending. Thank you all for ending this far

Tagging: @jerzwriter @genevievemd @messrprongs @cariantha @tessa-liam @zealouscanonindeer @alj4890 @potionsprefect @liaromancewriter @youlookappropriate @trappedinfanfiction @a-crepusculo @bex-la-get @crazy-loca-blog @schnitzelbutterfingers @lucy-268

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @binny1985

[lovealexhunt]

2023: ☆ January ☆ February-April ☆ May-June ☆ July ☆ August

Thomas Hunt x Alex Spencer  [HollywoodU]  [Red Carpet Diaries]

Coffee + Dinosaurs:  Alex has a coffee fueled idea. (We should all be worried 😉)

Bryce Lahela x Olivia Hadley[Open Heart]

Tides of Change: With the news of the spreading wildfires on the picturesque island he grew up on, Bryce knows he can't sit by and do nothing.

Pages of Emotion: Olivia and Bryce enjoy a quiet evening of reading on the porch of their new house.

Mystery Unlocked: Ethan keeps skipping out on their Escape the Room group date nights, so they bring the mystery to him. feat: Tobias x Casey, Ethan x Merida

Mal Volari x Daenarya [Blades of Light and Shadow]

Restless Shadows: Daenarya puts on a brave face during the day, but alone at night, she's haunted by her grief.

Chosen by Light: Mal has some questions for Daenarya after seeing her use Light magic.

A Royal Portrait: Daenarya and Maiele pose for a royal portrait, while Tyril and Mal discuss their partners. feat: Tyril x Maiele

The Cutest Goof: Daenarya has some thoughts on Mal's new armor.

Trystan Thorne x Lilah Rose [Crimes of Passion]

Between Coffee & Cases: an unexpected day: Lilah is pouring over the clues they've uncovered, looking for the missing piece, when Trystan surprises her with a special offer.

Thomas Hunt with a Camera Chibi

Alex Hunt minimalist art

Mal x Daenarya Masquerade Art

A Royal Portrait: Daenarya + Maiele

Mal + Daenarya chibi icons/headshots

Mal x Daenarya New Armor Featured by ChoicesGame

Unicorn Wishes and Mermaid Kisses: Bryce, Olivia, and Keiki Ice Cream Art

Seaside Serenity: Bryce and Olivia at the Beach

Asks

Lilah Rose Birthday Asks

Trystan x Lilah Drabble Gift

Thomas x Alex during the Writer's Strike

Ethan x Ellie AU

Random Things

Alex Hunt masterlist

Alex Hunt Character Page/Biography

Alex Hunt Summer Character Challenge

Don't stop, be leaving

My Personal Fave Fics

Lilah Rose Fashion