#frankie moralex x reader

[lavendertales]

Sweet lies: Chapter 2

pairing: Frankie Morales x f!reader

summary: when Frankie shows up unexpectedly at the reunion dinner, things get uncomfortable and awkward for everyone.

word count: 2.5k

SERIES WARNINGS: former friends who were in love with each other, angst, mutual pining, tension, eventual smut, jealousy, infidelity, wrong choices, kind of arranged marriage too I guess.

A/N: I NO LONGER USE A TAGLIST! If you want to be updated on my works, click “Get notifications” on this blog! Comments & reblogs are forever appreciated 💕

gif: @conveniently-available​ 

series masterlist | AO3

The coarse whisper of your name manages to awaken sentiments in you that you long thought of as dead and buried. You’re staring, too, but that you just cannot help.

It’s been an excruciatingly long and hard decade without that face. Time’s been kind to him, much to your dismay. Once a scrawny teenager, now he’s standing before you as a man: stubbled cheeks, moustache, eyes chocolatey and tired from time’s rough passage. He has the same kindness about him, the same warmth, and it only makes your heart ache more.

This would’ve been infinitely easier had he turned out into some kind of ogre.

But of course he hasn’t. Why would the universe make this any easy for you?

He’s just a person, you remind yourself with unsteady breaths. Just a person. An old acquaintance and nothing more. He means nothing more.

“What—what are you doing here?” he gets the courage to ask, visibly shaken by your presence. “How are you here?”

“Same way I left. Got on a plane. And I’m having dinner with the guys.”

You barely recognize your own voice as you flatly reply to him. It’s the voice of a woman who’s been disappointed and hurt far too many times, squashed of any hope.

Frankie hums, piecing everything together. He inches closer to you, and you pull away from him in an instant. Being too close means more heartache, and you refuse to put yourself through it again.

Be polite, nothing else. Keep him out.

“When did you come back?” he asks.

“A couple of weeks ago.”

“How long are you staying?”

“I’m back for good.”

He nods, hating how robotic and distant he sounds. Truth is, he is far too shocked to even smile at you or hug you or tell you how much he missed you. How much he’s thought of you over the years.

It hurts to even acknowledge that.

“What are you doing here?” you retort. “Santi said you were busy tonight.”

“Finished earlier, so I thought I’d join in.”

Heads turn back at the table, eyes widened in shock and panicked whispers exchanged.

“Uh oh,” Benny exclaims. “I thought you said he was busy.”

“He was,” Santiago admits, standing up swiftly and practically racing to you and Frankie. “Hey man, you made it!”

The look Frankie gives his best friend is hollow and accusatory, and Santiago knows why, but guilt isn’t on the list of things he’s worried about right now.

“I was… going to the restroom, excuse me,” you say, and make bigger steps to the ladies’ room.

Now alone, Frankie grabs Santiago’s arm as they approach the table. The grip is tight and firm, exuding nothing but sheer anger and betrayal.

“You knew she was back in town and you didn’t bother to tell me?!” Frankie groans.

“We wanted to tell you about it tonight, but when you said you were busy, we figured we didn’t have to yet,” Santiago says, breaking the touch.

“A warning would’ve been fucking nice.”

“Yeah, well, a call or text from you saying you were on your way would’ve been nice too.”

Frankie huffs, sitting down and rubbing his temples. The waiter returns, asking if he wants anything, and he immediately orders a glass of bourbon.

“We’re glad you could make it,” Mia says with a polite smile.

“I’m sure it won’t be that awkward,” Emily fortifies.

“Of course not, why would it be?”

“How about you sit way over there, buddy?” Will intervenes, gently guiding his friend to the end of the table, opposite of where your seat is. And just in time, too; you return from the bathroom, sneaking a single glance at Frankie, then avoiding him altogether.

You order another glass of wine, though that’s probably not the wisest decision given the effect wine has on you, particularly in the presence of someone you were once undeniably attracted to.

“How come you’re back in town?” Frankie asks, voice a little shallow and grave.

“I got a job here.”

“That sounds great.”

There is no follow up after that, and everyone at the table is feeling the tension running high. The only way to cope with it, since communication seems to come uneasy to both you and Frankie, is to drink. Everyone orders a second one, and soon a third one. By the fourth one, Benny takes it upon himself to lighten the mood, in spite of Will’s repeated insistence that he shouldn’t.

“What about my one year anniversary with Emily, huh?” he chuckles, cheeks flushed with the crimson burn of alcohol and love. “Who would’ve thought?”

“None of us did,” Santiago teases.

“Hey! I always wanted to settle down.”

“Benny, sweetheart, I love you, but even I know you were a huge ladies’ man before you met me.”

“It takes a special kind of woman to tame a lion.”

Will shakes his head, amused by his little brother’s antics.

“Oh, and Will and Mia got their half year anniversary coming up!” Benny continues. “Things are lookin’ bright for the Millers.”

Santiago exchanges a glare with Will, sensing where things are headed, and neither likes it.

“Alright, how about we talk about something more exciting?” Will suggests. “How about we hear more about our friend’s new job, huh?”

Will smiles at you, but Benny’s too tipsy to pick up on social cues in his pursuit to make the gang feel comfortable and happy.

“But we haven’t properly celebrated Frankie’s engagement,” he pouts.

The table goes silent as fearful glares are being exchanged. After a while, everyone’s gaze seems fixated solely on you, anticipating your reaction—except For Frankie. He keeps his head down, like a dog that’s been scolded for a mishap. You are fully aware of the fact that you are on a massive display, completely exposed, but you will not give into the moment and renounce your integrity.

Though it remains undeniable that on the inside, you are simply falling apart.

You expected this; you absolutely anticipated such a situation, even something more complicated. But no matter how much you would’ve prepared for any possible scenario, the reality still kicks you in the gut.

You stare blankly, only now gathering sufficient strength to search for Frankie’s face. When you find it, it’s riddled with guilt and sorrow, facts which you cannot fully comprehend. Why does he get to feel guilty? And for what?

“Oh,” you say at long last, your voice hollow. “You’re—engaged.”

You draw in a sharp breath that eventually gets stuck in your chest, and you make a mental note to yourself to sound pleasantly surprised instead of bitter and devastated.

“Yeah. Her name is Andrea. We’re getting married in June.”

You gulp, forcing a wide smile that’s meant to be polite and cordial at best. “Congratulations,” you whisper with the same happy mask on your face.

“Thank you.”

Frankie downs his drink and risks staring at you, but you’re back to ignoring him. He understands, of course; it would be foolish of him to pretend otherwise, no matter how much it would hurt to face the consequences of his actions.

He wishes he could tell you the truth, why he did what he did, but he knows you are far too stubborn and independent to believe him, especially after all that time. When he decided he was done, years ago, he closed every window and door there was to ensure his connection with you was truly severed. Too much time had passed without any form of contact, and it sent only one message: that Frankie did not care.

If only he would open his mouth now and confess that it was a lie, a ruse to help you and make you happy…

“I probably shouldn’t have dropped the news like that,” Benny whispers to Emily.

“You really shouldn’t have, you big blabber mouth.”

“As I recall, you don’t have a problem with my big mouth.”

Emily slaps him over the shoulder, audibly, and looks around the table. The tension is thick, palpable, and it makes everyone present disarmed in front of it.

“How did you two meet?”

All eyes are on you again, probably because nobody was expecting you, of all those present, to initiate a conversation about Frankie’s fiancé. But there you are, looking right at him, as friendly as you could possibly be. Even Frankie is taken aback, but he clears his throat and eventually speaks up.

“Uh, it was like... eight years ago. We met after one of Benny’s first matches, when we went out to eat. She worked there temporarily as a waitress to get through medical school. I asked for a bag of peanuts, she misunderstood, we had a laugh and became friends, and… here we are.”

Frankie realizes he’s oversharing and that you certainly didn’t want to know every little detail of his encounter with his now-fiancé, but it’s too late to stop it now.

“What about you, what are you doing back here?” he asks instead.

“I, uh—I got a job as an editor at a publication here in Boston.”

“That’s great. You always loved to write.”

Stunned, you look up at him, irritably fond of the fact that he remembers your favorite pastime. But you cannot go soft now, not when you have the man who stole your heart right there at the very table, stealing glances at you with big, soft puppy eyes. He needs to know, to understand, just how hurt you still are, how unyielding you are on the decision to remain simply cordial with him.

“Yes,” you reply cynically.

“Guys, I’m sorry I spoiled the news like that,” Benny says apologetically. “It wasn’t my news to begin with.”

“It’s okay, Ben” you smile.

“Yeah, she would’ve found out eventually.”

“Depends.”

“On what?”

“Well, you’re pretty good at keeping people in the dark about your intentions. Maybe I would’ve found out when I saw you driving your kids to college.”

Will clears his throat, as if to put an end to the bickering that’s barely beginning to boil between you and Frankie. But the latter only feels worse looking at you, being in such close proximity to you after all that time. He’s perfectly aware that a mere apology won’t cut it, but he has to try now that you have re-entered their lives.

He has to, doesn’t he? Otherwise he would be exactly what you already think he is: a heartless, cruel man.

“I’m sorry,” he says with a lump in your throat, though enunciating your name in a sweet, careful manner. “If I knew you’d be here tonight,” he adds, side-eyeing the guys in an accusing way, “I wouldn’t have come.”

“Then what?” you demand.

The table goes mute once again, no one daring open their mouths now. The thing is, they all realize just how uncomfortable this situation is for both you and Frankie; they also know that this kind of confrontation is long overdue, except—well. Maybe now isn’t the most opportune moment.

But you feel anger boiling underneath your veins, spreading throughout your entire body like a poison that needs to be released immediately, or else you’d die with it in your system, damaged from inside out.

“You wouldn’t have come tonight if you’d known,” you resume. “Okay. What was your plan after you’d find out? Go on with your life as usual, avoid me like the plague?”

Frankie coos your name again, in an almost begging manner. “I would’ve found out that you’re back sooner or later, so—“

“So what? We’d just never speak to each other again? Like we’re just two random strangers?”

“No—“

You search in your purse for your wallet, taking out a few bills to cover your share of dinner. You take a deep breath in, trying your best to keep your composure and not lose all of your sense right then and there with everyone watching you.

“It was nice seeing you guys tonight,” you say with a forced smile. “I really did have a good time. Think I’ll call it a night.”

“Are you sure?” Mia asks you, genuinely concerned. “We were thinking of going to a bar or a club after.”

“I’m sure. If you want to go, please, do. Have fun.”

“I should go, too,” you hear Frankie say.

The two of you stand up at the same time, locking eyes. Your heart instantly goes in your throat, dreading the idea that you might have to actually confront him outside of the restaurant, one on one. You falter, desperately looking around for some sort of help that fails to come.

“How about I take you home?” Santiago proposes, standing up.

You exhale with immense relief. Gratitude for Santiago was never bigger or more welcome than it is right now.

“Thank you,” you say, and you take one last look at Frankie, noticing how wrecked he seems in that moment.

But you still don’t cave in. You can’t.

“Congratulations on your engagement again,” you tell him, flashing another smile.

It’s a hollow one, and Frankie sees right through it. It might’ve been a while since he’s last seen you, but he is very much still capable of deciphering your every little tell, anything that your body language cleverly conceals from the rest of the world except him.

He doesn’t reply. He remains locked in the same position, standing up, and watches you leave with Santiago. He sees his hand on your waist guiding you gently through the restaurant, and then walking right out. His mind spins with endless possibilities that just about tear him into pieces. He’s never felt so tiny, so cruel and horrible.

“I’m really sorry, man,” Benny mutters at him.

“It’s fine. She would’ve found out sooner or later. This way… the bandaid is ripped off. It hurt, and now—“

It still does. So much more than before.

“—it’s done,” he lies.

He vaguely hears Will’s voice in the background, asking him not to leave, but rather to join them at a bar or something, but he doesn’t fully comprehend or listen. He pays for his drink and rushes straight home. His freshly renovated apartment that’s supposed to be part of the new chapter in his life. His and Andrea’s life, together. But right now, in this frozen moment, it all feels like a lie. A big, fat joke he’s been telling himself to make himself sleep better at night.

He’s always known he hurt you and fucked up everything, yet tonight, seeing the look on your face, nearly falling apart with sadness and anger alike, he knows the damage is irreparable. He knows you’ll never forgive him for the way he hurt you.

He won’t forgive himself, either.

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[ariundercovers]

Palladium (Prologue)

Title: Palladium (Prologue)

Co-written with @ezras--moon

Pairing: Pilot!Frankie “Catfish” Morales x F!Reader

Word Count: 3,828

Warnings: None for now

Chapter (Prologue) Summary:

After his time in the army, Frankie gets a new job as a med-evac helicopter pilot. Reader, a paramedic who has been working on the chopper for quite some time, is unsure of her new coworker and has some serious doubts about their compatibility. 

Authors’ Notes: Slow burn with lots of smut. Multi-chapter fic in progress. F!Reader, referred to by a nickname in later chapters. No use of y/n. 

This fic is co-written by @ezras--moon and @ariundercovers. Please follow both of us for updates! We will be going back and forth to post each chapter, but catch a masterlist pinned to each of our blogs.

Day 1 - Monday, September 4th

The early morning light bathes the bedroom in an orange glow and the warmth of the sunlight hitting your face tickles you awake before your alarm can. You lay there silently for a long while, letting your brain slowly catch up with your body until it’s no longer comfortable and a groan slips out, slowly rolling over to your side to stretch your limbs. Eyes finally blinking the sleep away as you rise, the alarm goes off right as you sit up and put your feet down on the floor.

 A quick shower wakes you up, and a steaming cup of french press coffee immediately afterward motivates you to get ready for the long day ahead of you. You hastily grab a cream cheese bagel along with another cup of coffee to go as you head out for the base, morning news on the radio barely registering in the back of your mind as you pull into your designated parking space.

 Briskly walking to the locker room, you frown when you find it empty and remember what day it is. 

Phoebe’s gone.

The pilot you’ve been partnered with for years, your closest friend and confidant - you can’t blame her for leaving, as much as you’d like to be angry. Her promotion, which comes with a really nice pay raise, meant a transfer to a new base, away from you. 

“Well, fuck,” you mutter under your breath, frustrated with the change. You steady yourself, take a deep breath and a sip of your second coffee, before you slip into the rest of your gear, bright yellow warning vest last. Heading down the hall to the office, you clock in, hoping to see if you can find Benny or catch a glimpse of the new pilot. As far as you can tell, neither of them are anywhere to be seen - not that you would even know what the new pilot looks like. So, you go check in with your boss, Chief Lewis, who is in his office as usual, mustering up an enthusiastic greeting.

 “Morning.” He greets you with a smile and immediately hands you a stack of paperwork. “I need you to meet your new pilot out back, fill this out over the course of your shift today, and then hand it back in tonight before you leave.” You raise your brows and look at the pages stapled together at the upper left corner. Glancing down at the header, you realize that it’s an evaluation, and he wants you to report back about any issues with communication and cooperation between your team and the new member.

“This is just the initial review, you’ll do a few more later on. One next week and the other in six. Alright?” he folds his hands under his chin and looks up at you expectantly. 

You nod, still reading the questions on the paper in your hand, “Alright.” 

You’re caught off guard when he continues. “And, if there’s nothing urgent coming in soon, you’ll be doing a test flight or two to get the crew acquainted with one another. So, go grab Miller and get started on that first.” The disapproval seems to be evident on your face, as he’s now the one to raise his brows. “Please, don’t scare off the new guy with that frown on his first day, now.” There’s a lighthearted chuckle to his tone, but the words he chooses don’t slip past you, either. 

New guy. 

You’re the only woman left on your little team of three. Chief Lewis ushers you out of his office then, and you let out a frustrated sigh in the hallway as you make your way to the heliport to find Benny.

 When you come to find out neither of them are dressed for work yet and are, instead, engaged in some kind of animated discussion while just standing around next to the helicopter, you’re fuming. This means that, most likely, you’re going to be the one carrying the equipment out and loading it into the chopper while they catch up on getting ready, which they should have done at least ten minutes ago.

 Benny spots you stomping towards them and you catch him nudging the new pilot who’s just out of view behind him from where you’re approaching. The stranger is sporting a gentle smile and waves shyly at you as he sidesteps Benny, emerging from behind your trusted nurse.

 Your breath hitches in your throat just for a split second when you see him fully. His face, his imposing build, the messy mop of dark hair that he quickly hides beneath a baseball cap…

He’s handsome. You can feel your eyes start to widen for a split second before you reel yourself back in. 

The moment passes quickly, however, almost instantaneously replaced once again by the annoyment from before as you set down the two heavy bags of medical supplies you’re carrying. 

“Why aren’t the two of you dressed yet?” you almost bark, Chief Lewis’s request not to scare off the new guy going straight out the window. 

Benny raises his hands in mock surrender and rolls his eyes. “Well, good fucking morning to you too.” The new pilot’s smile drops into a neutral expression and it occurs to you briefly that you’re being rude. 

You sigh and ease up a little bit, but your brows remain furrowed as you step closer. “Morning, Benny.”

 The new, aggravatingly attractive guy introduces himself as Francisco, ‘but you can call me Frankie’,shaking your hand firmly and confidently. The sheer size of his palm compared to yours makes you swallow dryly, adding to the list of annoyances  you’ve already racked up today. 

“Please, go get dressed. And hurry. I’ll get started on loading up.” The two men disappear out of sight and you get to work.

 At least they don't take long and have the courtesy to bring the rest of the equipment on their way back out. And then it's not much longer until you’re finally seated with your headset on, buckled in, and Frankie’s communication with air traffic control layers staticky over the vibrating thrum of the chopper starting up.

 It’s deeply annoying that even his voice is nice to listen to, but you know that’s not the source of your frustration... It’s the fact that he’s replacing your friend - your best friend. 

It’s that you’re outnumbered by men, and it’s especially that they’ve already known each other forever. Benny told you as much while you were strapping everything in and sanitizing surfaces before take-off - apparently he had put a good word in for Frankie to be hired.

 There’s an easy banter between the two of them over comms, in which you decidedly don’t partake; it feels like you’re the third wheel, intruding. You feel out of place with them, on this helicopter, on this job. You’ve never felt like this at work before, not even on your own first day when you met Phoebe. She made you feel included and comfortable from the moment you shook hands, and you immediately worked together as a cohesive unit. 

 You’re in the middle of an inner monologue about the situation, talking yourself deeper into the frustration, when Benny addresses you. You’re settled in the air, finally at altitude as Frankie smoothly tilts the helicopter along a predetermined route given to him by air traffic control.

“What’s that you got there?” he asks, pointing at the slightly crumpled evaluation form you’re clutching in your hands. He’s aggressively chewing gum and bouncing his leg, it makes your facial muscles finally relax into somewhat of an easier expression. At least it’s still the same Benny you’re working with. You hand him the sheet and he skims it, then gives it back with a grin, but doesn’t say anything. 

 “Are you okay back there?” Frankie asks when there’s no verbal reply to Benny’s question, glancing back over his shoulder. 

“Yes, don’t worry about it. Focus on getting us back down in one piece,” you respond. It comes out a little harsh, but you don’t pay it any mind.

Frankie shakes his head and turns back to the windshield, flying them smoothly and competently along the route. The longer you’re in the air, the more frustrated you feel, finding nothing about his demeanor or his flying that you could legitimately be disappointed with. Nothing to write down as a negative on his evaluation form.

Turns out, he’s infuriatingly and devastatingly competent.

You can feel your own leg start to shake back and forth a bit, the inner boiling beginning to affect you a bit more outwardly. Frankie’s voice sounds over the comms as you all arrive at your given location - just a mile or so out from the hospital.

“Turning around, and heading back to base, now.” The smoothness of his voice catches you off-guard every time. It’s like an expensive liquor in your ears, even through the static of the comms and the deafening loudness that is the inside of a helicopter. You close your eyes and sigh heavily, shaking it off. It feels impossible, but you just have to get through today. You could go home tonight and pour yourself a big glass of wine over it, but you have to figure out a way to not let this affect you. So, you shift in your seat, looking out over the city in front of you, and you count your breaths a few times, trying to regulate yourself. It helps, at least a little, and you sit back in your seat with a small sigh. 

Frankie has the helicopter back in no time. He’s landing at base, again without a hitch, and you unbuckle yourself so that you can shuffle out of the chopper and back into base as quickly as possible. 

You hole yourself up in the dorm for as long as you can, figuring some distance might help you shake the ugly feeling in your chest. Trying to focus on a new book Phoebe gifted you as a going away present, you’re laying back in your cot as you flip through the first pages. 

An alarm blares over the intercom. They’re sending you out on your first call with the new pilot. A glance at your watch tells you you've lost track of time a little bit, it's almost noon already. You groan but immediately get to it, tossing the book onto your bed and grabbing your bag before jogging out to the helipad. Frankie is already there, climbing in, and you meet him inside just as Benny arrives as well. Everyone’s headsets are on in barely a moment as the chopper starts. Frankie turns and offers a nod to each of you - which you reluctantly reciprocate - before he takes off in the direction of the accident.

It’s a short trip - only a few minutes, really - and you land on a closed-off highway that’s got a three-car pileup blocking all lanes of traffic. There must be hundreds of cars unable to pass and waiting on tow trucks, police and your own team to clear their path. Ground EMS is there, too - you can see the lights from where you are, and you jump out of the helicopter, booking it toward them as Benny pulls out the stretcher to meet you there. The firefighters have already pulled your patient from the car, laid out on one of their stretchers with a very visible head injury. You crouch down, telling them your name and a few gentle pleasantries. You’re not sure they can even hear you, but you do it for all of your patients, no matter how bad of a shape they’re in.

“We’ve got you, now. Don’t worry - my team’s gonna get you to the hospital in no time at all, we’re gonna take good care of you.” One of your fellow paramedics on the ground gives you the low-down on the patient, explaining their injuries, position in the crash, and how the firefighters pulled them out. You nod, taking note of everything as you scan the patient yourself for visual confirmation. Asking a few follow-up questions, you nod to them and offer a polite ‘thank you’ as they stand and step to the side. 

Benny jumps in then, offering you a smile before locking eyes with you. On the count of three, you lift the patient over to your stretcher. Two of the firefighters jump in toward the foot of the stretcher, grabbing the backboard along with you and Benny, and the four of you move quickly over to the helicopter as you load the patient into the cabin. 

Frankie glances back at you, watching to make sure everything goes according to protocol. You and Benny finish buckling the patient down, and then sit in your seats, turned toward them as Benny continually takes vitals and you apply pressure to a deep wound on their shoulder. After one last cabin check, Frankie takes off, en route to the second closest hospital, given it has the resources to tend to your patient properly. 

“Three minutes to General.” He calls back to you, and Benny nods with a ‘roger’ in response. Those three minutes are always both the longest and the shortest all at once - Benny and you working seamlessly to tend to the patient with all of your supplies and training available to you. You’re watching them inevitably deteriorate at once, so you’re grateful when you can finally feel the descent down to the helipad. 

Doctors and nurses are waiting on the pad with a stretcher already, making the transition an easy one as you slide the patient off of the backboard. They run off then, Benny in tow, and you lag behind at the helicopter as the blades above you slowly whirr to a halt. Frankie climbs out as they stop, walking over to stand next to you. 

“Everything go alright?” He asks.

You sigh, the adrenaline of the call slowly starting to wear off. “Yeah. As alright as it could have.” You’re not sure what else to say, so you stand there awkwardly, thoughts bouncing around in your skull for a long while. “I’ve gotta do some paperwork.” 

You walk off, moving back into the cabin of the helicopter to grab the papers Chief Lewis handed you this morning. Setting them up on a clipboard, you settle into your seat and cross your legs, propping it up. It’s not actually that much paperwork, really, but it’s enough to make your head swim. This is, and will always be, your least favorite part of your job.

You fill out the pages on auto-pilot, jotting down route numbers, ID badge information, and generally recalling the course of the day so far. It startles you, then, when you hear the pilot’s door open up. Frankie steps in and takes a seat, swiveling his legs around to face you. He ticks his chin up at you and says, “Hey.”

You lift your eyes to him only briefly, not looking away from the page for more than a second, and raise one eyebrow at him in confusion. “What do you need, Morales?” He blinks back at you a few times and shakes his head.

“Nothing, just… wanted to say hi, I guess. We didn’t really get much of an introduction earlier.” You raise your chin to meet his gaze, settling against the back of your seat as you regard him.

“Well, hello. Consider us introduced.” You sigh, getting back to work on the papers and doing your best to ignore him further. - - -

The look on your face confuses Frankie to no end. He feels like maybe he did something wrong, said something wrong, perhaps? Made a wrong call during their test flight? It has to be something horrible to make you dislike him so blatantly, but you’ve only been working together for a few hours or so at this point. 

He’s been replaying the day in his mind over and over again, searching for the moment where he slipped up, that moment when everything went wrong, but no matter what he does, he can’t find it, can’t quite figure out why you’ve grown to detest him so much already. He shifts in his seat, staring blankly out through the windshield as he waits for Benny to get back. It’s another internal battle to figure out if it’s worth it to keep trying, or if he should just give up and let you sulk. Maybe it had nothing to do with him, after all. 

But, he’d never know if he didn’t try.

Sighing, he turns back around again and gives you a once over before speaking up once more. “Hey, uh… I feel like maybe we got off on the wrong foot or somethin’. Can we try this again? Tomorrow, maybe.” You huff, but acquiesce, looking up at him with a scowl on your face.

“Sure, fine. Whatever you want, Morales.” You look back down at the papers in your hands as Frankie brightens just a little bit, feeling better at the chance for a fresh start, even if you’re less than enthused about it. He sighs, letting out a breath he didn’t know he was holding in, and turns back to the windshield, eyes trained to the hospital doors that Benny would hopefully be walking back out of soon.

It’s a few more minutes only and he’s doing exactly that, climbing up into the cabin of the helicopter with one of his bright signature smiles that makes Frankie shake his head. They head back to base in silence, unloading themselves and their equipment to clean and sanitize. They restock their bags, reload the chopper, and then they’re left to their own devices again. 

Amazingly, they don't get another call for the rest of their day. Frankie stays largely in the day room with Benny, and he doesn’t see you for the rest of the shift, or even when he goes to leave. Benny walks up to him as he’s slinging his backpack over his shoulder and they walk out of the base together.

“Hey, Fish. Decent first day, I hope?” Frankie sighs, pulling off his hat so he can run his fingers through his hair, putting it right back atop his thick dark curls.

“Decent enough, I guess.” Offering a nervous chuckle, he shifts his backpack on his shoulders as they start to head out. “Very different from flying in the army, that’s for sure.”

Benny smiles back at him. “It’ll take some time to get used to, but you’re a natural. Knew you would be, man.” Frankie nods, appreciative of the compliment, and they continue to walk in silence for a few more steps before he perks up with a question of his own.

“Hey, Benny, can I ask you somethin’?” Benny turns, regarding him as the cadence to their steps slows.

“Sure, man. Whatever you need.” They pause in front of Frankie’s beaten up truck, turning to face one another. Frankie’s head ticks toward the base.

“Is she always… like that? Feel like I did somethin' wrong… real wrong, if I’m being honest. Is she cold like that with everyone? Or is it just me?” Benny lets out a hearty laugh and claps Frankie on the shoulder, squeezing him reassuringly.

“Just give her some time. I think she’ll warm up to you pretty quickly. You’re a good guy, Frankie, so just keep being you. She’ll get there, I promise.” Frankie nods in understanding, accepting Benny’s words with a frustrated huff.

“Alright, If you say so.” They offer each other a curt nod and head in their own directions, Frankie ducking into his car and taking a moment to settle himself before driving off in the direction of his apartment.

~ ~ ~

It takes Phoebe a while to pick up when you call her that night, leaning over your kitchen counter and fidgeting with the handle of your spatula. You almost give up when the line finally connects and you hear her voice at the other end. She’s just slightly out of breath, making you think she must have rushed to find her phone at the other end of her apartment.

“Hellooo,” she sings as a greeting and you hear her sit down in her creaky porch chair, front door falling shut in the background. You sigh before you say anything, but then muster a squeaky “Hey.”

It must be so obvious, the exasperation in your voice, because she makes a sympathetic sound before she asks you what’s wrong.

“Oh no, honey, rough day? What happened?”

You sigh into the phone and plop yourself down in your kitchen chair after flipping your food in the pan. “It’s just… the new pilot. He’s a man so I’m left now as the only woman on the crew. And, even better, he and Benny have been super close for years already, and it was him who recommended him for the job. I’m like the third wheel. It’s horrible!” You can hear a breathy laugh on the other side that she tries to cover up, unsuccessfully. “Oh come on, Phoebs… You’re living your best life in your new cushy job and I’m stuck with these two big burly boys. By myself. You’ve abandoned me!” You’re joking mostly, at this point, but the feelings inside are still real, even if you’re covering them up with a bit of laughter.

“I know. A new start like this is tough. But give the guy a chance. If he’s friends with our Benny, he’s gotta be a good one, right? He deserves a fair shot. Give it a couple of days, and see how you’re feeling about it then. It’s too raw right now to be able to make any real sense of it, anyway.” She pauses for a moment and you take a deep breath, standing up to check on your food.

“I’m sorry, sweetie. I know I didn’t give you much time to prepare for it, either. It’s hard, no matter how you swing it.” You nod your head, even though she can’t see you, and look out into the distance of your living room.

“It is. But you’re right, too. I can give him a couple days, that’s only fair.” You sigh, frustrated to know that she’s right, but always grateful for her advice, anyway.

“Exactly. If it was you in his position, you’d only want the same, wouldn’t you?” 

You huff, her wisdom starting to whittle away at your misplaced rage. “Yeah yeah, voice of reason. I know. I’ll give him a chance.”

She chuckles on the other side of the line. “Now that’s my girl! I’d bet he makes out to be pretty decent, after all. Benny wouldn’t stick his neck out like this for just anyone, and you know that.”

You nod in agreement even though she can’t see you. “Definitely not.”

“So just keep your head up and ride it out. You’ll know soon enough.”

[savemefromanepicoftimewasted]

The Grass Is Always Greener

Frankie "Catfish" Morales X Actress!Reader Past! Actor!Bucky Barnes X Actress!Reader

Bucky had torn your life apart piece by piece, the day you're finally sick of being nothing more than his puppet you decide to leave, is it true when they say the grass is greener on the other side?

a/n:y'all this fic has consumed my every waking thought lmao, I've had this idea for WEEKS and just finally got the time to sit down and write. as always feedback is highly appreciated, if you like my work and would like to request something my inbox is open, the list of characters i wrote for is on my masterlist(except Eddie, I think that was a one off)but alas here we are! WARNINGS:mentions of drug use, infedelity, Bucky being VERY OOC(it only worked in the fic if he was OOC so bear with me), Frankie being soft as a marshmallow wc:7,788

Bucky Barnes was a man sought after, someone you had watched from the sidelines for years, wondering when it would finally be your turn. Had you known he was going to slide up to your side, whispering sweet nothings until you gave in and accepted the date. Which didn’t take much thought on your end, not when those piercing blue eyes were staring back at your own. He’d been the perfect boyfriend, showing you off to the paparazzi each time they tried to corner the pair of you. The topic of marriage and children was constantly thrown at the pair of you, would you finally get married? Have a few children that would end up growing up and become actors like yourselves? 

You refused to answer anyone about your future with Bucky, hell you were unsure if things would work out yourself. You were both actors, choosing a life in front of the camera wasn’t always the easiest. Bucky would have time off when you were filming, and vice versa. There were a few times you’d both had a few weeks off together, running off to spend what little time you had. Of course that was until Bucky stopped answering your calls or texts, instead choosing to stay out with his friends and party all night.

His face would be plastered all over the internet, his hands roaming all over some other woman’s body while he stumbled drunkenly down the street. The drugs were more evident, white powder underneath his nose, pupils blown wide as he smiled in each new photo. The girls tagged him every time he went out, bragging about how good of a night they spent with him. Bucky lied, acting like you were talking crazy instead of admitting to being unfaithful, as if the proof wasn’t right in front of your face.

His agent had sent him to rehab, only for him to sign himself back out the same day, in the club the very same night. It was slowly starting to tear you apart, lying to your friends that you were doing just fine when you clearly weren’t. His friends had made snide comments, posting instagram stories with different pictures of Bucky with even more women. They knew all about his cheating, and encouraged every bit of it from day one. 

You’d been subtle about wanting to leave, to break off the relationship without it blowing up in your face. Of course that was never how things worked out, was it? Bucky took the breakup a lot harder than you’d expected, he nearly tore apart his apartment while blaming you. He’d treated you like nothing but scum on the bottom of his shoe, and yet you were the bad guy? After posting that you two were going to take a small break, everyone started to side with Bucky, saying that you were clearly only with him for his fame. It was downright disgusting, you had more acting credits and awards than Bucky could even blink at, and yet you were the bad guy.

“It’s not fair! I have been nothing but faithful our entire relationship while you’re out fucking every woman who throws themselves your way!” You were sick and tired of being beaten down by Bucky, by the people he called his friends.

“And yet you’re the one who wants to leave! Don’t come crying to me when they say the things about you,” Bucky snarled, ready to rip the clothes out of your grip as you stuffed your suitcase full.

Bucky’s cat, or better named his agent's cat seeing as Tony was the only person to ever actually take care of the poor animal, was sitting on the windowsill, watching you two argue. Alpine was the only reason you hadn’t caused a scene, you weren’t going to do that to an innocent animal. The only person who deserved to deal with Bucky’s consequences was himself, no one else.

“I am leaving James, I am fucking leaving this hell hole and going where no one can find me,” Now that might have been a small white lie, you weren’t entirely sure where you were going to go yet. 

Bucky reached over to grab your arm, frowning harder as you pulled away just out of his reach, he wouldn’t put his hands on you ever again.

“If you lay so much as one hand on me I will tell everyone about what happened in Cancun,” It was a low blow, something that had been a complete accident.

His face went white as a ghost, you’d really hold over his head the fact that he’d knocked up two different women in Cancun, and told them both to get abortions because he “didn’t want to ruin his life”. Now it would only slow him down for a week, he’d be back doing the same exact thing before anyone could even hold him accountable.

“You have no right, Tony helped keep those girls silent anyway, bringing it up will just look bad on you anyway,” Bucky smirked, almost proud of himself for finding a way around your little ‘trick’.

“You really think Tony convinced two different women to terminate their pregnancy knowing full well they could get a DNA test and prove to the world that you’re the dad? Be real James,” You zipped the suitcase closed, pulling it off the bed and dragging it out towards the living room.

Bucky didn’t need to know you were lying, didn’t need to know the actual truth about the two girls he’d left behind after a three month bender. The girls had gotten plenty of money, living lavish lifestyles while Bucky was none the wiser.

“If you take one step out of that door, I will make sure your career is ruined,” You knew it wasn’t an empty threat, Bucky never hesitated to try and take out the people who’d wronged him. How were you even considered an exception?

“Go ahead, I don’t need this life anymore,” You felt lighter after leaving, the weight on your shoulders suddenly gone as you headed down to the busy streets outside.

Everything after that was a blur, getting into the taxi with your bags, uttering out the name for LAX. The driver didn’t try to make small talk, something you were beyond thankful for as talking was the last thing you wanted to do. He got a generous tip out of you, thanking you before driving off to help anyone else who might need it. The airport was busy, as you had expected considering it was LA and was always crazy.

The woman who’d handed you the plane ticket looked as if she was trying not to fangirl, keeping her composure as she printed the ticket, waiting for your credit card to be approved before handing it over. Normally you would’ve offered to take a photo with them, but after the nightmare that was dealing with Bucky, you couldn’t risk it.

“Where the hell am I even going again?” You muttered glancing down at the ticket in your hand, Tampa, Florida.

You couldn’t remember the last time you’d been there before, had you ever gone? Surely there had been some movie that you filmed, or even a tv show. Maybe it would be more serene in Florida, at least in your hotel room away from Bucky and his bullshit. Even having nothing more than a few days off would be absolute heaven, no one to scream in your face about the next upcoming project.

Your phone had been off from the moment you left Bucky’s apartment(you had packed the few things you’d left at his home, not even caring that the luggage you currently had was his), it was nice not having to worry. The pilot's voice came over the intercom, letting everyone know they were going to be landing soon. The stewardess’ made their final rounds before seating themselves, getting ready to land and help everyone off the plane.

It would definitely do some good, the air in LA was too smoggy, wrapping around you like a thick wool blanket. Of course that wasn’t to say Florida would be any better, it could be worse for all you knew. It didn’t matter though, as long as you could just destress and deal with everything later that was all that mattered. The plane's wheels hit the tarmac, bringing you back to reality as you glanced around at everyone else.

After grabbing your suitcase and backpack you made your way off the plane, ready to get to a hotel that had an available room, something that would suffice. Thankfully there were plenty of hotel rooms for rent, according to the listings you’d seen online. You didn’t hesitate to head out to one of the ones nearby, paying the taxi driver handsomely and heading into the prestige building. It felt selfish, you were tempted to tell the concierge to bill Bucky for the entire trip, lord knows he could afford a few thousand dollars.

Your bags dropped off in the room, you headed out to see what the town had to offer, maybe a coffee would be good, something comforting. The air was thick, not as bad as back home which you were thankful for. It was nearing November though, so maybe that explained the lack of humidity in the air, the way you could breathe so easily. Things were finally looking up, Bucky would soon be a distant memory.

Of course that was before you collided with a very firm chest, nearly falling back onto your ass before two hands wrapped around your waist pulling you flush to said chest. A little girl right next to you and the stranger was laughing, her smile was wide, the sound catching the attention of passerby’s.

“Oh my gosh I am so sorry, I hadn’t been paying attention to where I was going, Ava get over here please,” The man gently let go of your arms, making sure that you could stand on your own before taking a couple steps back. 

Ava, the little girl he’d addressed just moments ago, clung to the man’s side, hiding her face in his stomach. If you didn’t know any better you would say she was nervous, though the man in front of you seemed even moreso.

“Don’t apologize, I wasn’t paying attention either, my heads been up in the clouds all day,” You hadn’t wanted to admit that you were running away because of your ex, it felt weird to tell a stranger.

“Still, let me get you a coffee as an apology, please,” You’d wanted to say no, to tell this stranger that you were perfectly fine, but something about his gaze was tearing down the walls you’d built up over the years.

Ava peaked around the man whose name you still hadn’t learned, people grumbled angrily as they walked around the three of you. This was starting to look a little embarrassing, soon enough someone was going to start a fight.

“Sorry! Names Frankie, I should’ve led with that,” Frankie’s laugh was contagious, bringing out a laugh of your own.

“Nice to meet you Frankie, and Ava,” You knelt down til you were eye level with the little girl, waiting to see if she would be comfortable enough to talk to you.

Frankie mirrored your position, whispering something to the young girl before nudging her towards you. Ava lifted her gaze until it landed on yours, her eyes held all the wonder in the world.

“Are you miss Sarah from Sesame Street?” That was one of your absolute favorite roles, getting to be in a show that helped influence kids in a healthy way.

“Yes I am, it’s nice to meet you miss Ava,” You couldn’t stop smiling, this day was getting better by the second.

You talked with Ava for a few more minutes, remembering that you were indeed still in the middle of the sidewalk. Maybe it would be better to get that coffee that Frankie was offering. You slipped your hand into your pocket, powering on your phone before straightening back up to acknowledge Frankie. Your phone started going off immediately, buzzing incessantly in your pocket.

“I’ll take up your offer on that coffee, if you don’t mind,” Frankie held out his free arm, keeping Ava tucked into his side.

“Let’s go darling,” You wrapped an arm around the one Frankie had extended, letting the taller man lead the way.

You sighed softly, this wasn’t exactly how you’d planned for your day to go, but there were definitely worse things that could happen. Mainly Bucky airing out all of your dirty laundry after you fled from LA to the humid air of Tampa, Florida. Well, that was a lie, you were thankful that you’d accidentally run into Frankie that fateful day. His daughter had been the first person to recognize you, starring in one of her favorite tv shows she stood frozen staring at you.

He had tried to keep his cool, reining his daughter in so she wasn’t announcing to everyone within a hundred yards of who you were. It was sweet. Which was why you’d accepted Frankie’s offer of getting a coffee. He’d nearly knocked you flat on your ass, trying to pay more attention to his daughter who was holding his hand as if it were her lifeline. She whispered her name after Frankie nudged her towards you gently, of course he introduced himself right after. You were smitten within those first few seconds, from the way little Ava bounced excitedly, to the way Frankie and you had locked eyes.

Ava had dragged you over to a table while Frankie offered to get the drinks and snacks, mainly a cookie and a cup of milk for Ava, and a couple of coffees for you and him. You had been trying to avoid looking at social media at all costs, leaving your poor agent to deal with the havoc that Bucky was causing.

“Sorry about the wait ladies, the line was longer than I had anticipated,” Frankie set down the drinks, followed by Ava’s two cookies. She waited patiently for Frankie to slide everything over to her.

“Such a well behaved daughter, definitely gets it from you,” You giggled as Frankie’s cheeks flamed up, he hadn’t been flirted with in so long.

Frankie plopped down opposite you, letting out a groan when his knees had cracked as he sat down in the chair. It nearly made you burst out laughing, it was just such a dad thing for him to do.

“I’m sure you’ve already heard all the dirty details of why i’m out here,” You grimaced, pulling your cup closer to the edge of the table.

“If you couldn’t tell from my amazing good looks, and my little girl right here, I don’t use social media except to post pics of her,” Frankie gestured with his left hand to Ava who was breaking off small bits of her cookie to eat.

Frankie helped her sip the milk, making sure she didn’t spill any of it onto her shirt or pants. He had been carrying a bag with a few of her things in it, but none of those were clothes. Ava had gotten better at drinking from cups without a straw, and this was the first real test. You watched the pair with what could be considered lovestruck eyes. He was so gentle with her, never rushing her when she wanted to take her time.

Frankie noticed the children's area tucked in the back corner of the cafe, the many array of books and crayons splayed out caught his attention for more than one reason. Ava had more energy than Frankie could handle at times, and if this helped keep her distracted, well maybe it wasn’t such a bad idea.

“Why don’t you go play in the corner sweetheart? We’re going grocery shopping after here and I know you’re not the biggest fan of that,” Your heart soared, was it destiny that brought the two of you together?

“Okay daddy,” Ava scooted off her chair slowly, running off towards the small play area the moment her feet hit the ground. Frankie had a perfect view of her, and would be able to easily hold conversation with you.

You couldn’t keep your mouth shut, spilling all the dirty details of how horribly you were treated by Bucky, the way his friends would hide him sneaking off with multiple women. It didn’t get by everyone, anyone with a smartphone and a social media account would snap a pic and upload it immediately. It was when you found out he’d been sleeping with his ex that you took off, locking up your apartment and getting on the first plane out of California.

You were mainly thankful you and Bucky hadn’t moved in together, mainly on his insistence that the two of you worked too much to see one another right now. How could someone lie so often that they couldn’t even tell the truth anymore? He was on a smearing campaign because you hadn’t returned his calls, meanwhile there were pictures of him practically fucking women in public.

“Bucky was the first person to really try and get to know me, had I known who he truly was deep down I would’ve never accepted that date from him,” You had hated the mere idea of ever speaking to him again, but you weren’t about to take this all lying down.

“He sounds like a grade A asshole if you ask me,” Frankie sipped at his coffee, eyes glancing between you and where Ava was.

You laughed, something you’d normally find mortifying had you let out the noise in public, but for once you actually felt happy. Here was this man you’d run into, literally, taking you out along with his daughter as a way to apologize and he helped you feel better than Bucky ever had. Maybe this was what you’d needed, not someone famous that the tabloids could exploit.

Your phone had been going off nearly nonstop, buzzing incessantly as you had gone about your day before running into Frankie and Ava. You had been fighting every single urge to take out your phone and see what was going on, what else had Bucky said?

“I am so sorry, do you mind if I turn my phone off? It’s been going off like crazy for the last hour and I can’t stand it anymore,” You didn’t want Frankie to think you were annoyed with him, but jeez did that phone need to simply cease to exist.

“No problem, go right ahead,” Frankie had leaned back in his seat, eyes landing back on Ava as she colored in a picture.

Neither of you could tell what it was from the table, but right now your priority was turning off your phone until you were back in the hotel room. Now you were expecting a million different things, Bucky claiming that you had been the unfaithful one in the relationship, that you were off filming a new movie, but what you hadn’t expected were paparazzi shots of you with Frankie and Ava plastered all over his instagram stories.

This is the woman I thought I was giving my heart to, just shows you can’t trust anyone in Hollywood anymore these days. Your heart sank, was he really accusing you of having a double life? When the man in question couldn’t keep it in his pants longer than a few hours? In that moment your fear was no longer about your career, but about how this was going to affect Frankie and Ava, surely her mother would see this and end up trying to get custody again.

“We need to leave, right now,” Don’t start panicking, the last thing you need to do is cause a scene and make this entire situation worse.

“What’s going on?” Frankie knew body language, he didn’t spend years in the army to be blind to someone’s anxiety spiking.

“There’s photos of us all over the internet, my ex is trying to say I was leading a double life and that Ava’s secretly my daughter,” You felt sick, wiping your hands off on your pants as you stood up.

Frankie got out of his chair, going over to grab Ava so you could all sneak out of the cafe and get somewhere safer and more private. The photos had been when you’d first run into one another, nothing recent from your time in the cafe. Once Frankie had Ava in his arms you grabbed a hold of Frankie’s coat and nearly ran out of the cafe.

“Daddy? What’s going on?” Ava was oblivious, something you and Frankie were both beyond thankful for.

“We’re gonna get pizza for dinner instead of going to the store tonight, okay sweetheart?” Ava squealed happily, clearly excited at the idea of getting pizza for dinner.

The three of you didn’t stop until you reached Frankie’s car, slipping into the passenger seat as he loaded Ava into the back, making sure she was buckled before shutting her door and getting in himself. There was no going back from this, you’d have to make a statement telling everyone the truth, and there was no way they’d ever believe you. Bucky was a master manipulator, he’d convince everyone that you were truly the liar and that he was innocent. It didn’t matter how much evidence was stacked against him, no one ever believed the woman.

“Hey, it’ll be okay, I can assure you Ava’s mom isn’t going to freak out because the tabloids tried saying you were her mom, trust me,” Frankie was doing everything he could to comfort you, though he felt as if he was doing a terrible job at the moment.

You smiled softly at him, resting against the window as he drove down the busy streets. He’d mentioned that he and Ava lived on the outskirts, more towards the suburbs where it was less noisy. Maybe that’s why you’d felt so uncomfortable once you’d landed, the sound of the city felt too much like LA, the reminder of why you’d left in the first place. What would their house be like? Was it small and cozy, or more open where Ava could run around for hours without getting tired?

Frankie parked outside of a cozy looking home, slipping out of the truck to grab his daughter and head inside. He didn’t want to rush, or pressure you until you felt comfortable enough to leave. You’d clearly been through a lot and there would be nothing worse than pushing you into entering a stranger's house when you were stressed. 

“We’re gonna give our guest some space okay sweetheart? She’s a little stressed and needs to relax, okay?” Frankie knew Ava wouldn’t overwhelm you, the girl was too smart for her own good, thanks to Frankie of course.

“Okay daddy, can we still get pizza?” He’d promised her at the coffee shop, and he was going to follow through.

Frankie called in to the restaurant, ordering a couple appetizers as well just in case you were hungrier than he anticipated. He didn’t want to make any assumptions, but it was better to be safe than sorry. Plus who doesn’t like cold pizza anyway? He’d eat it for lunch the other day.

You walked into the house slowly, taking in the decor that made up the Morales home. It was nice, had a homey feel that brought a warmth to your chest. Houses in LA never felt like this, with the cold air, and the even colder walls. This was a true home. No wonder Frankie seemed so friendly, his daughter much the same way.

“I ordered some pizza and other food, didn’t know how hungry you were,” Realistically you were exhausted, from the jet lag that was suddenly hitting you, to the realization of what you’d done.

“I am pretty hungry actually, I didn’t exactly eat before flying out here,” All you’d had since arriving was the cup of coffee Frankie had ordered you.

Frankie opened his mouth to respond, a loud knocking on the door interrupting him before he could say anything. He apologized before heading over and opening to see who it was, he’d had a thought to slam the door before realizing it was just Santi standing on the other side. He looked downright nervous, shit had he seen the photos online?

“Santiago, what’s going on?” Frankie tried to keep you hidden with his body, maybe the other man would leave before he realized you were inside. “Really? That’s how you want to start this conversation? I see photos of you plastered online hanging out with Y/N fucking Y/L/N, and that’s how you address this?” Santi didn’t seem angry more than he seemed exasperated.

Frankie sighed, pushing the door open further to reveal you standing in the living room talking with Ava, your head thrown back with a laugh. There was a conversation he wasn’t a part of but it looked like things hadn’t exploded too badly. Santi pushed past him gently, not wanting to catch your attention seeing as you were doing everything you could to make Ava laugh.

“She wouldn’t even let me hold her without crying for months, and yet here she is making a brand new friend,” Santi turned to face Frankie, hoping for some kind of explanation.

Frankie, under the pressure of his best friend's intense stare, spilled everything, from accidentally running into you, to finding out about what your ex had been posting online. It was as if the damn holding everything back had given way. He’d tell Benny, and Will later in the groupchat to help keep them up to date.

“That sounds much more lame than what I’d pictured on the drive over here,” Santi snickered at Frankie’s expression.

“Now that’s just insulting, it’s not everyday my daughter meets one of her idols,” Frankie took a quick glance at you and Ava, smiling softly to himself.

Santi knew right away his best friend was smitten with you, it was written all over his face as he watched you interact with Ava. Frankie had never let anyone else get close to Ava, not unless he felt things between them could be serious enough. No one ever came close to that, not until today.

“Don’t worry, we’re gonna make sure she stays safe, from what I’ve been reading poor girls been through enough as it is,” Santi had such a bleeding heart, whether it was his friends, or his goddaughter, he was going to do whatever it took to make sure everyone was happy and safe.

Frankie knew better than to thank him, Santi would just brush off his woes and go on about his day as if this were just another Tuesday for him. If word got to the Miller brothers who knows what kind of havoc they were going to cause. It was all fine though, everything was going to work out and be just fine.

✦•······················•✦•······················•✦

You watched horrified as Bucky spewed nothing but lies on the late night talk show, claiming you had run off with Frankie, hiding a secret family with the man. How the hell could one person be such an asshole? Well, that didn’t narrow it down when most men in Hollywood would rather treat everyone they came into contact with like shit. Bucky had been so different in the beginning, but once his true colors came out you weren’t surprised to find out the truth. Frankie took everything in stride, laughing at the paparazzi when they tried to snap pictures of him.

He refused to tell the tabloids anything, arms full of bags as he bought enough food to feed a small army. Santi, Will, and Benny had all made themselves comfortable in his house while you were there. Frankie offered the spare bedroom the moment he found out you were spending money on a hotel room you didn’t plan on staying in. You refused at first, telling Frankie that you didn’t want to take up too much of his space.

“You’re wasting money on a hotel, plus Ava likes having you around when I have to go to work, it’s a total win,” Frankie held his hands up, feigning innocence.

You couldn’t deny him after that, checking out at the hotel and putting your things into the spacious guest room. Ava had snuck into your room the next morning, whispering that her daddy was downstairs making breakfast for everyone. Santiago was still snoring on the couch, the two Miller brothers already gone for work.

“Ava leave our guest alone! If you’re going to bother anyone bother Uncle Santi, lord knows he shouldn’t be sleeping still,” Frankie flipped over another pancake, beaming proudly when it wasn’t burnt.

Cooking for himself had been easy, but cooking for multiple people was a bigger task he hadn’t anticipated. Ava wasn’t too picky, choosing easy things he could make, or even a bowl of cereal before sending her off to pre-school while he went to work. Now with you, and the other three, staying at his house he’d started planning differently. Ava was reveling in the fact her dad was cooking everyday, eating until her belly was full and crawling all over her uncle.

“I have the day off, I told my boss I had some things I need to work through and I’ll be back next week.” You’d told Frankie not to worry about you during the days he was gone, that you could handle being alone for a few hours.

That was before the other three had moved themselves in, Santiago making his presence known right away. Man was a bigger flirt than any man you’d ever met before. Frankie hadn’t taken kindly to Santi getting friendly with you, especially if you didn’t plan on staying. Will had been a little apprehensive, feeling you out to see what your intentions were. Benny welcomed you with open arms, claiming you were already officially part of the family.

“You didn’t have to do that, I would’ve been fine hanging out with Ava for a couple of hours,” You had taken her to preschool a few times over the last few weeks.

Frankie was thankful for it, especially the days he’d accidentally overslept and was running late for work, Santi was usually yelling at him for oversleeping too, blaming Frankie for why they were both about to be late. Santiago had a perfectly good phone to set for his alarms, but of course he was going to blame Frankie.

“Yeah, but with you talking about doing that instagram thing, I’ll be able to keep Ava busy so she isn’t too loud,” Oh, that’s right.

You had planned on doing an Instagram live, telling everyone the truth with all the screenshots and photos to back you up. They didn’t need to know about the man you were currently residing with, or the fact that you had slowly started to fall in love with him. It didn’t take much for your heart to soar when you were alone together, Frankie asking things about your life no one ever had before. It was genuine interest whenever you sat together late at night, sitting together with a plate of cookies between you. 

“I’m not even sure I want to go through with it anymore, he’s still trying to go on a smear campaign,” There was a chance this could all blow up in your face, that no one would believe you and would in turn take Bucky’s side in all of this.

“That’s because he’s trying to save his own ass, doesn’t want everyone to know he’s a piece of shit,” Frankie knew everything, your talk in the coffee shop was just a small drop in the ocean of memories.

Frankie had wanted to fly to LA and beat the man black and blue for how he had treated you, downright disgusted by the other man's actions. You convinced him to stay home, that Ava didn’t need her dad getting arrested so far from home. He had relented after a few minutes, taking in your words and realizing that you were ultimately right. That didn’t mean he kept his mouth shut online, he was careful not to say anything that could do any damage.

“Let’s just hope Santi’s not snoring in the background, lord knows he’s louder than a damn chainsaw,” Frankie snickered to himself, finishing up the last of the pancakes.

That seemed to wake up the other man, stretching along the couch before standing up with a long drawn out groan. Frankie still didn’t understand why he took the couch when there was a perfectly good bed in the bedroom downstairs. You were in the room next to Ava’s which conveniently was right across from Frankie’s.

“I know you’re talking shit Morales, don’t make me fight you,” Santi’s voice was thick with sleep, body moving lethargically as he made his way into the kitchen.

Ava was already in her seat, waiting patiently for Frankie to cut up her pancakes so she could eat. Santi made himself a plate, piling the pancakes til they looked ready to fall over onto the floor beneath him.

“Save some for the guest! Goddamn man,” Frankie had been teaching Ava how to speak Spanish from the day she was born, so unfortunately being around Santi brought out the worst in him.

He wasn’t about to start teaching Ava how to swear in Spanish solely so he could yell at his best friend without you knowing what he was saying. It worked in his favor sometimes, Ava curled up in your lap while Frankie and Santi had an intense conversation in a language you hopefully didn’t understand.

“You made plenty Frankie, thank you by the way,” You pressed a kiss to his cheek, grabbing a plate to get yourself some of the delicious looking pancakes.

Frankie stood frozen where he was, cheeks heating up as realization dawned on him, you’d kissed him, or his cheek at least. He had been so nervous to overstep his boundaries, and here you were kissing his cheek as if you didn’t care. Santiago caught the look on his face, smirking before stuffing his mouth full of pancake. He’d definitely be grilling his friend about you even harder.

“I called my agent last night and told her what I planned on doing, she’s in full support,” You were nervous, downright terrified at the thought of millions of people watching the live.

“You’re going to do great, I believe in you,” Frankie’s face was still flushed, plating up some pancakes for himself.

The rest of breakfast went off without a hitch, Frankie telling Ava that they were going to head out while you did your live and get groceries for the week. Santiago offered to go with them, wanting to give you as much privacy as they could allow. It was the nicest gesture you’d had in a while, save for cashiers not outright screaming when you went off into the real world. Once Frankie had gotten the dishes washed, and Ava ready, plus himself, they headed out. It was finally time to face your biggest fear.

The camera was set up, you were streaming from your laptop so you could have your phone available in case you needed it for whatever reason. The timer counted down as you watched nervously, the word LIVE flashing for a brief moment before the viewers started to skyrocket. You were at nearly two million viewers within the first minute. You started off slow, anyone who’d seen your movies or shows would know who you were, but dammit you didn’t want to ruin this. Everyone deserves to know who the real Bucky Barnes was, a narcissistic asshole that wanted nothing more than to cause pain to everyone he came into contact with.

“That’s why I left, why I haven’t been posting on my socials in weeks. I understand that by letting him say the things he did that everyone is going to have their opinion about me, and I’m setting the record straight,” The words flowed like water, you held up page after page of evidence of his cheating, drug use, and downright foul behavior.

Frankie watched for a few minutes, hiding in his truck as Santi took Ava into a bookstore, promising her a gift if she gave her daddy some alone time. She thought nothing of it, happily following behind her uncle into the store.

“I’ve been staying with someone since I got here, it had actually been an accident really, we ran into one another while going about our days. His daughter was so sweet, god I can still hear the way she laughed at the way her dad and I did this awkward tango,” You laughed breathily, face flushing for a brief moment at the memory.

“Bucky was already posting all of these lies about me, saying that I had been leading a double life with a man I’d met no more than an hour prior. I felt the need to protect them from Bucky’s hateful words, make sure his little girl didn’t see what was being said,” Your eyes lifted back to the camera.

Frankie felt captivated, it was almost as if he was hypnotized in that very moment, hanging onto every word you had to say. You’d already exposed your ex for the person he truly was, so where else could you go?

“I’ve got to know his daughter, his closest friends, but most of all I’ve gotten to know the man that helped me realize I truly deserved better,” Your eyes welled with tears, it made Frankie even more nervous, where were you going with this?

“As cliche as it sounds, I’ve fallen in love with him, someone who sees me as more than just a pretty face, or a famous name on a movie screen. And frankly, I wouldn’t have it any other way,” You smirked, wiping away the tears that dripped onto your cheeks.

Frankie snickered to himself, heart pounding in his chest at the realization that you returned the feelings he had for you. There was no better feeling than what was currently rushing through his body, well maybe the first time he got to hold his daughter, but this was surely a close second.

“That’s all I have to say in this situation, I know exactly where I stand and I’ll be damned if I let a man take my life away from me, goodbye everyone,” The live ended, leaving Frankie’s screen black before he clicked out of the app.

Santiago gave it a few extra minutes before leaving the shop with Ava, hoisting the bag of books and toys she’d got higher up on his arm. He knew right away that Frankie was crying, unsure whether they were happy tears or not. Santi opened the door, letting Ava crawl into her seat and buckling her up nice and snug. Frankie wiped at his eyes, breath shuddering out of his chest as he glanced back at Ava.

“Did you have fun with uncle Santi in there?” Frankie could already see the amount of things Santi had bought, knowing just how whipped his friends were when it came to his daughter.

“Yeah! He got me so many books, and a new teddy bear!” Ava was kicking her feet excitedly, waving her arms as Santi got himself situated.

Frankie didn’t offer conversation, instead keeping quiet on the drive back to his house. Santi could only hope things were good, and that they weren’t about to walk into an active warzone. He spent way too many years in the army for his life to be ended because his best friend fell in love with a woman way too out of his league. Ava nearly threw herself out of the car the moment Frankie stopped, only stopping once Santi gave her hell.

Santi got out of the truck, grabbing Ava and her bag of goodies, leaving Frankie behind to think about his next course of action. You greeted Santi as he walked inside, setting Ava down so she could run off to play with her toys. Frankie took a deep breath, lifting his head high and heading inside to find you.

“Frankie I-” “I love you, I’ve wanted to say it for weeks, but I love you,” The words were out before Frankie could even think about stopping himself.

The smile that stretched across your face could light up the entire world, Frankie’s heart melted in his chest as he pulled you flush to his chest.

“I love you too Frankie, I’m sure you gathered that from watching my live,” You giggled into the fabric of his shirt, there was no other place you’d rather be in that moment.

“You told millions of people you loved me, there’s no taking it back,” Frankie pressed a kiss to your hair, tightening his grip for a brief moment.

Santi was secretly taking photos of the two of you, sending them off to the Miller brothers with the caption “about fucking time!”. What you guys didn’t know wouldn’t hurt you. 

“Well Mr. Morales, I think it’s high time that I post an official picture of us,” You’d already deleted every piece of Bucky off of your social media, not wanting him to taint any part of you.

“I think that’s a wonderful idea,” Frankie pressed his lips to yours, listening as Santi swung himself around the corner to get a picture of the two of you.

You didn’t care at the moment, knowing full well the photos would make their rounds with the boys before it was officially posted by you. It would be a little while before you posted anything about Ava, not wanting to put her in the spotlight. Especially considering you had over twelve million followers on Instagram alone.

Frankie had posted the picture Santiago sent in the groupchat onto his personal instagram first, tagging you without a single fuck to give. You followed suit, posting two separate photos with equally cheesy captions so everyone knew you were serious. It took a little while before you felt comfortable posting Ava, Frankie of course in every picture with her. You’d made your own little family together, deciding to take a step back from acting and re-evaluate everything.

That was all derailed a few years later on Christmas, Ava had run into your and Frankie’s room screaming excitedly that “Santa came! Let’s go!”

You hadn’t wanted to leave the comfort of Frankie’s arms, muttering that it was much too comfortable to leave, and that Ava could wait a few more minutes. Frankie disputed that, you knew deep down you weren’t going to make Ava wait any longer than she had to. So with a groan and a stretch the two of you made your way down to the living room. Ava was patiently waiting for Frankie to separate the gifts, placing most of the pile in front of the young girl. Frankie didn’t hesitate to pile yours nice and high, raising a brow at his own decent pile.

“Go ahead sweetheart, your dad and I will open ours once you’ve opened all of yours,” Ava didn’t waste a single second, ripping open the colorful paper with the utmost glee.

She squealed at each gift, getting more excited with each one, until she got to her last gift and noticed it had your name on it.

“Wait to open that one until your dad opens his from me, it’ll be worth the wait I promise,” You didn’t wait before opening your own gifts, aweing at the framed photo of you, Frankie, and Ava.

The other gifts were so heartfelt you were ready to cry, each one warming your heart more and more. It wasn’t until you’d opened the last one, a hand covering your mouth as you looked down at the ring nestled in the velvet box. Frankie took your hand gently, sliding the ring onto your finger with a silent question in his eyes. You simply nodded, tears spilling down your cheeks as you hastily pressed your lips to his.

“Eww! No kissing,” Ava laughed, covering her eyes as you pulled away from Frankie.

“Sorry sweetheart, your daddy just gave me something very special,” You’d tell her all about it after Frankie opened his gifts.

He tore into his own while you and Ava watched, chuckling when he laid the new jacket you’d bought for him along the back of the couch. He’d been complaining how cold it was getting, so you got him a new jacket for when he had to work outside. Now he wouldn’t complain to Santi how he was “freezing his balls off” when they worked together. It wasn’t until he’d gotten to the last gift, a photo nestled inside the small box.

“Wait, is this what I think it is?” Frankie was slack jawed, watching as Ava tore into her own gift from you.

The shirt was a little too big, the front reading “Big sister!” in bright bold font. Ava knew right away what it meant, if her screams of joy that echoed through the house was any indicator. Frankie pulled you into a tight hug, tears of joy sliding down his cheek, letting Ava squirm into the embrace. You’d spill the news to everyone else later, let them know there would be an addition to the Morales family. Instagram, and twitter could definitely wait until you were showing, they didn’t deserve to know until you felt ready. Sure, you had plenty of good fans, but most of them showed their true colors during the Bucky fiasco.

“Why don’t we get some hot chocolate and relax before we have to go to the Millers later?” It was a Christmas tradition, something you’d done two years in a row.

Ava flung herself off the couch, trying to reach her favorite mug so Frankie could get started on his famous hot chocolate.

“Don’t be too long, the couch will get cold without you,” You smirked as Frankie raised a brow, heading into the kitchen to help his daughter.

Sure things could’ve been different had you not left when you did, but you were thankful for that day you’d stood up to Bucky, finally leaving a toxic situation that was slowly draining you. Frankie had helped you realize that you truly did deserve better, that not everyone you came into contact with had bad intentions. And here you were, a ring on your finger as the love of your life, and your step-daughter made her dads famous hot chocolate.

“Merry Christmas to me”

[pettyprocrastination]

Hi! I'm one of your kofi anons! I got such a kick out of seeing your post to whoever was the original one that I thought it would be fun to send you the second one! It was just a random act of kindness....but if you want to pay it forward to the fandom...I would take any kind of thots about our boys + lingerie. Would they like to see it, buy it for you, try it on for you, save it? Ezra, Frankie, Javi P., & Max P. are my faves. 😁

MY BELOVED DARLING ANON HELLO HELLO HELLO

I am SO sorry this response took for-fucking-ever to write!! but please now youre message and kind donation has been in my heart (and my class payments lmao) for a while now. I've been slowly chipping away at this ask for the past few weeks, working on it between final exams/papers, I do hope you enjoy it!! This was less focused on the boys wearing lacy things and more on the reader, I hope that's alright!!

warnings: sexual themes, talk of lingerie, talk of smut. 

characters: Max Philips, Javier Pena, Ezra, Francisco Morales

tagging folks who may be interested: @thesadvampire @captainsamwlsn @mostly-megan @fleetwoodmactshirt @ithinkhesgaybutwesavedmufasa @ficsilike-reblogged @cinewhore @humanransome-note @pedrostories @max--phillips

Link to kofi if anybody wishes to make a little donation (obviously not mandatory or needed): Here

Ezra

Now I think ezra is a man that just savors the body in general. As are all of the pedro boys but I think him especially given he seems to be one that is always working. When you spend your days sweating away in a suit and finally get to peel it off, you won’t be wearing some lacy underthings beneath it that offer you no comfort nor support. So it isn’t something sees with his usual trysts unless he charmed his way into the arms of a dolled up-debutante playing commoner in the bathroom of a seedy bar before they go back to their rich life. So when you, his lover, his friend, his partner in life and crime and dig after dig, present yourself to him in bold colors of intricate lace. My god does he relish in it. He runs his hands over the fabric, tugging and mapping out the feeling of the soft lace against your calloused and well worked skin. He never rips it though, one would expect him to, he’s a man of passion who can be impulsive to act, but he knows the money you spent on this, the hard working hours used to buy something so simple and pretty that you wear so well that if Ezra saw it on anybody else he’d consider it a cardinal sin. 

He doesn’t rip them, but he may steal them. Not in a dubious way. But after fucking you into a state of bliss that slowlt faded away as you both began to dress in silence, he’ll snatch up the lace panties he had tugged off with his teeth just hours ago and slip them into his pocket with that crooked grin you hate to love and offer you a look of sardonic sympathy when you scoff at him. 

“It’s something to remember you by, gem. You can’t enchant a man and then expect him not to want a memento to hold onto in your time apart.”

He had countless other mementos. The notes you had scribbled in the margins of his books you read while on jobs together. The scars of the wounds you stitched up in the cramped tent after warding off a pack of thieves. But the garment reminds him of your shy smile as you spread out beneath him and the way you would smile against his lips. 

Javi P.

As somebody who frequented brothels, Javier is a man who is used to tugging lace off his lovers without snagging a single thread. He enjoys the sight of his partners in lingerie just as much as the rest. He’s the “office dog” as it were, he knew what secretary wore blue and which wore pink. Not in a derogatory way, and it wasn’t something he would spread to other DEA agents. But he got around the office and didn’t feel shame in it. Javier learned a lot about you before learning what color of lace you wore against your body. What type of coffee you liked, how the bodega across the street was your go-to for breakfast when you were in a rush to get to the embassy. The way you snorted if he got you to laugh when you were just a little tipsy and the way you always adjusted the rug in your living room whenever you came home. It was after learning all these things and more, that he finally saw you, that you let him, see you adorned in lace and soft colors that made him forget every other woman in the world. Max P.

Oh max, my sweet sweet bastard man. With the money he gets from being sales manager AND the sheer fucking confidence this mother fucker has? He will stride right into a lingerie store with you and not feel a single ounce of shame. Fuck, you could tell him your favorite color and he’d stop by the goddamn place after work to pick it up for you as an anniversary present while keeping a happy-go-lucky grin on his face as he hands the cashier his card while they bag the downright shameful outfits he bought you. 

If you work with him? Please wear them to work. You don’t have to tell him you have them on, or even send him a picture. Just a well-timed stretch in his field of vision that’s enough for him to see the lace peeking out from under your waistband is enough to get him to quickly wrap up his conference call and poke his head around your desk with a sharp smile and “mind popping into my office for a moment? I’d like to have a chat :):):)” 

Frankie

Our darling Francisco Morales is a stark contrast to Max. Now don’t get me wrong, this man loves lingerie and loves seeing you in it. But he still does get a little fidgety when he walks into the store with you. He offers polite but tense smiles to the employees but does his best to draw as little attention to himself as humanly possible. Follows closely behind you as you browse. When it comes to you offering his style advice you’d expect him to be the “you’d great in anything babe.” type of guy. Which i mean, he kind of is, the man worships you. But he knows what styles and colors you like best and that “this color really looks nice against your skin” or “won’t this underwire bother you?” because our man PAYS ATTENTION!!

He does his best not to rip or tear things in the moment but he’s so passionate that sometimes he just can’t help it. There has been many a time of your husband mumbling a rushed “ill replace it” against your lips after you hear the loud rip of your negligee and gasp because “that wasn’t cheap, Francisco.” Of course you’ll never complain of your husband showing passion for you, worshiping you, because that he does really. It doesn’t matter whether you're wearing black garters or a pair of plain cotton panties that came in a 4-pack from Walmart and his old college sweatshirt, he sees you as utterly divine no matter what. 

[ariundercovers]

My baby, my love, my boy, Francisco "Catfish" Morales.

Of course, drawn by yours truly.

Isn't he so pretty?!?!

[savemefromanepicoftimewasted]

Pedro Pascal Masterlist

Frankie "Catfish" Morales: The Grass Is Always Greener Heartbreak Feels So Good Part 2

Joel Miller TLOU: It's the Little Things We're Out Of Time Darling Once And Never More Why Does Change Hurt So Much? Part 2 Part 3 Part 4/Finale It's Your Burden To Carry The Angels Are Not Ready For You Why I Never Said What I Meant To updated 8-27-23

[kirsteng42]

Such a great start although come on and give sweet Frankie another chance!!!

Palladium (Prologue)

Title: Palladium (Prologue)

Co-written with @ezras--moon

Pairing: Pilot!Frankie “Catfish” Morales x F!Reader

Word Count: 3,828

Warnings: None for now

Chapter (Prologue) Summary:

After his time in the army, Frankie gets a new job as a med-evac helicopter pilot. Reader, a paramedic who has been working on the chopper for quite some time, is unsure of her new coworker and has some serious doubts about their compatibility. 

Authors’ Notes: Slow burn with lots of smut. Multi-chapter fic in progress. F!Reader, referred to by a nickname in later chapters. No use of y/n. 

This fic is co-written by @ezras--moon and @ariundercovers. Please follow both of us for updates! We will be going back and forth to post each chapter, but catch a masterlist pinned to each of our blogs.

Day 1 - Monday, September 4th

The early morning light bathes the bedroom in an orange glow and the warmth of the sunlight hitting your face tickles you awake before your alarm can. You lay there silently for a long while, letting your brain slowly catch up with your body until it’s no longer comfortable and a groan slips out, slowly rolling over to your side to stretch your limbs. Eyes finally blinking the sleep away as you rise, the alarm goes off right as you sit up and put your feet down on the floor.

 A quick shower wakes you up, and a steaming cup of french press coffee immediately afterward motivates you to get ready for the long day ahead of you. You hastily grab a cream cheese bagel along with another cup of coffee to go as you head out for the base, morning news on the radio barely registering in the back of your mind as you pull into your designated parking space.

 Briskly walking to the locker room, you frown when you find it empty and remember what day it is. 

Phoebe’s gone.

The pilot you’ve been partnered with for years, your closest friend and confidant - you can’t blame her for leaving, as much as you’d like to be angry. Her promotion, which comes with a really nice pay raise, meant a transfer to a new base, away from you. 

“Well, fuck,” you mutter under your breath, frustrated with the change. You steady yourself, take a deep breath and a sip of your second coffee, before you slip into the rest of your gear, bright yellow warning vest last. Heading down the hall to the office, you clock in, hoping to see if you can find Benny or catch a glimpse of the new pilot. As far as you can tell, neither of them are anywhere to be seen - not that you would even know what the new pilot looks like. So, you go check in with your boss, Chief Lewis, who is in his office as usual, mustering up an enthusiastic greeting.

 “Morning.” He greets you with a smile and immediately hands you a stack of paperwork. “I need you to meet your new pilot out back, fill this out over the course of your shift today, and then hand it back in tonight before you leave.” You raise your brows and look at the pages stapled together at the upper left corner. Glancing down at the header, you realize that it’s an evaluation, and he wants you to report back about any issues with communication and cooperation between your team and the new member.

“This is just the initial review, you’ll do a few more later on. One next week and the other in six. Alright?” he folds his hands under his chin and looks up at you expectantly. 

You nod, still reading the questions on the paper in your hand, “Alright.” 

You’re caught off guard when he continues. “And, if there’s nothing urgent coming in soon, you’ll be doing a test flight or two to get the crew acquainted with one another. So, go grab Miller and get started on that first.” The disapproval seems to be evident on your face, as he’s now the one to raise his brows. “Please, don’t scare off the new guy with that frown on his first day, now.” There’s a lighthearted chuckle to his tone, but the words he chooses don’t slip past you, either. 

New guy. 

You’re the only woman left on your little team of three. Chief Lewis ushers you out of his office then, and you let out a frustrated sigh in the hallway as you make your way to the heliport to find Benny.

 When you come to find out neither of them are dressed for work yet and are, instead, engaged in some kind of animated discussion while just standing around next to the helicopter, you’re fuming. This means that, most likely, you’re going to be the one carrying the equipment out and loading it into the chopper while they catch up on getting ready, which they should have done at least ten minutes ago.

 Benny spots you stomping towards them and you catch him nudging the new pilot who’s just out of view behind him from where you’re approaching. The stranger is sporting a gentle smile and waves shyly at you as he sidesteps Benny, emerging from behind your trusted nurse.

 Your breath hitches in your throat just for a split second when you see him fully. His face, his imposing build, the messy mop of dark hair that he quickly hides beneath a baseball cap…

He’s handsome. You can feel your eyes start to widen for a split second before you reel yourself back in. 

The moment passes quickly, however, almost instantaneously replaced once again by the annoyment from before as you set down the two heavy bags of medical supplies you’re carrying. 

“Why aren’t the two of you dressed yet?” you almost bark, Chief Lewis’s request not to scare off the new guy going straight out the window. 

Benny raises his hands in mock surrender and rolls his eyes. “Well, good fucking morning to you too.” The new pilot’s smile drops into a neutral expression and it occurs to you briefly that you’re being rude. 

You sigh and ease up a little bit, but your brows remain furrowed as you step closer. “Morning, Benny.”

 The new, aggravatingly attractive guy introduces himself as Francisco, ‘but you can call me Frankie’,shaking your hand firmly and confidently. The sheer size of his palm compared to yours makes you swallow dryly, adding to the list of annoyances  you’ve already racked up today. 

“Please, go get dressed. And hurry. I’ll get started on loading up.” The two men disappear out of sight and you get to work.

 At least they don't take long and have the courtesy to bring the rest of the equipment on their way back out. And then it's not much longer until you’re finally seated with your headset on, buckled in, and Frankie’s communication with air traffic control layers staticky over the vibrating thrum of the chopper starting up.

 It’s deeply annoying that even his voice is nice to listen to, but you know that’s not the source of your frustration... It’s the fact that he’s replacing your friend - your best friend. 

It’s that you’re outnumbered by men, and it’s especially that they’ve already known each other forever. Benny told you as much while you were strapping everything in and sanitizing surfaces before take-off - apparently he had put a good word in for Frankie to be hired.

 There’s an easy banter between the two of them over comms, in which you decidedly don’t partake; it feels like you’re the third wheel, intruding. You feel out of place with them, on this helicopter, on this job. You’ve never felt like this at work before, not even on your own first day when you met Phoebe. She made you feel included and comfortable from the moment you shook hands, and you immediately worked together as a cohesive unit. 

 You’re in the middle of an inner monologue about the situation, talking yourself deeper into the frustration, when Benny addresses you. You’re settled in the air, finally at altitude as Frankie smoothly tilts the helicopter along a predetermined route given to him by air traffic control.

“What’s that you got there?” he asks, pointing at the slightly crumpled evaluation form you’re clutching in your hands. He’s aggressively chewing gum and bouncing his leg, it makes your facial muscles finally relax into somewhat of an easier expression. At least it’s still the same Benny you’re working with. You hand him the sheet and he skims it, then gives it back with a grin, but doesn’t say anything. 

 “Are you okay back there?” Frankie asks when there’s no verbal reply to Benny’s question, glancing back over his shoulder. 

“Yes, don’t worry about it. Focus on getting us back down in one piece,” you respond. It comes out a little harsh, but you don’t pay it any mind.

Frankie shakes his head and turns back to the windshield, flying them smoothly and competently along the route. The longer you’re in the air, the more frustrated you feel, finding nothing about his demeanor or his flying that you could legitimately be disappointed with. Nothing to write down as a negative on his evaluation form.

Turns out, he’s infuriatingly and devastatingly competent.

You can feel your own leg start to shake back and forth a bit, the inner boiling beginning to affect you a bit more outwardly. Frankie’s voice sounds over the comms as you all arrive at your given location - just a mile or so out from the hospital.

“Turning around, and heading back to base, now.” The smoothness of his voice catches you off-guard every time. It’s like an expensive liquor in your ears, even through the static of the comms and the deafening loudness that is the inside of a helicopter. You close your eyes and sigh heavily, shaking it off. It feels impossible, but you just have to get through today. You could go home tonight and pour yourself a big glass of wine over it, but you have to figure out a way to not let this affect you. So, you shift in your seat, looking out over the city in front of you, and you count your breaths a few times, trying to regulate yourself. It helps, at least a little, and you sit back in your seat with a small sigh. 

Frankie has the helicopter back in no time. He’s landing at base, again without a hitch, and you unbuckle yourself so that you can shuffle out of the chopper and back into base as quickly as possible. 

You hole yourself up in the dorm for as long as you can, figuring some distance might help you shake the ugly feeling in your chest. Trying to focus on a new book Phoebe gifted you as a going away present, you’re laying back in your cot as you flip through the first pages. 

An alarm blares over the intercom. They’re sending you out on your first call with the new pilot. A glance at your watch tells you you've lost track of time a little bit, it's almost noon already. You groan but immediately get to it, tossing the book onto your bed and grabbing your bag before jogging out to the helipad. Frankie is already there, climbing in, and you meet him inside just as Benny arrives as well. Everyone’s headsets are on in barely a moment as the chopper starts. Frankie turns and offers a nod to each of you - which you reluctantly reciprocate - before he takes off in the direction of the accident.

It’s a short trip - only a few minutes, really - and you land on a closed-off highway that’s got a three-car pileup blocking all lanes of traffic. There must be hundreds of cars unable to pass and waiting on tow trucks, police and your own team to clear their path. Ground EMS is there, too - you can see the lights from where you are, and you jump out of the helicopter, booking it toward them as Benny pulls out the stretcher to meet you there. The firefighters have already pulled your patient from the car, laid out on one of their stretchers with a very visible head injury. You crouch down, telling them your name and a few gentle pleasantries. You’re not sure they can even hear you, but you do it for all of your patients, no matter how bad of a shape they’re in.

“We’ve got you, now. Don’t worry - my team’s gonna get you to the hospital in no time at all, we’re gonna take good care of you.” One of your fellow paramedics on the ground gives you the low-down on the patient, explaining their injuries, position in the crash, and how the firefighters pulled them out. You nod, taking note of everything as you scan the patient yourself for visual confirmation. Asking a few follow-up questions, you nod to them and offer a polite ‘thank you’ as they stand and step to the side. 

Benny jumps in then, offering you a smile before locking eyes with you. On the count of three, you lift the patient over to your stretcher. Two of the firefighters jump in toward the foot of the stretcher, grabbing the backboard along with you and Benny, and the four of you move quickly over to the helicopter as you load the patient into the cabin. 

Frankie glances back at you, watching to make sure everything goes according to protocol. You and Benny finish buckling the patient down, and then sit in your seats, turned toward them as Benny continually takes vitals and you apply pressure to a deep wound on their shoulder. After one last cabin check, Frankie takes off, en route to the second closest hospital, given it has the resources to tend to your patient properly. 

“Three minutes to General.” He calls back to you, and Benny nods with a ‘roger’ in response. Those three minutes are always both the longest and the shortest all at once - Benny and you working seamlessly to tend to the patient with all of your supplies and training available to you. You’re watching them inevitably deteriorate at once, so you’re grateful when you can finally feel the descent down to the helipad. 

Doctors and nurses are waiting on the pad with a stretcher already, making the transition an easy one as you slide the patient off of the backboard. They run off then, Benny in tow, and you lag behind at the helicopter as the blades above you slowly whirr to a halt. Frankie climbs out as they stop, walking over to stand next to you. 

“Everything go alright?” He asks.

You sigh, the adrenaline of the call slowly starting to wear off. “Yeah. As alright as it could have.” You’re not sure what else to say, so you stand there awkwardly, thoughts bouncing around in your skull for a long while. “I’ve gotta do some paperwork.” 

You walk off, moving back into the cabin of the helicopter to grab the papers Chief Lewis handed you this morning. Setting them up on a clipboard, you settle into your seat and cross your legs, propping it up. It’s not actually that much paperwork, really, but it’s enough to make your head swim. This is, and will always be, your least favorite part of your job.

You fill out the pages on auto-pilot, jotting down route numbers, ID badge information, and generally recalling the course of the day so far. It startles you, then, when you hear the pilot’s door open up. Frankie steps in and takes a seat, swiveling his legs around to face you. He ticks his chin up at you and says, “Hey.”

You lift your eyes to him only briefly, not looking away from the page for more than a second, and raise one eyebrow at him in confusion. “What do you need, Morales?” He blinks back at you a few times and shakes his head.

“Nothing, just… wanted to say hi, I guess. We didn’t really get much of an introduction earlier.” You raise your chin to meet his gaze, settling against the back of your seat as you regard him.

“Well, hello. Consider us introduced.” You sigh, getting back to work on the papers and doing your best to ignore him further. - - -

The look on your face confuses Frankie to no end. He feels like maybe he did something wrong, said something wrong, perhaps? Made a wrong call during their test flight? It has to be something horrible to make you dislike him so blatantly, but you’ve only been working together for a few hours or so at this point. 

He’s been replaying the day in his mind over and over again, searching for the moment where he slipped up, that moment when everything went wrong, but no matter what he does, he can’t find it, can’t quite figure out why you’ve grown to detest him so much already. He shifts in his seat, staring blankly out through the windshield as he waits for Benny to get back. It’s another internal battle to figure out if it’s worth it to keep trying, or if he should just give up and let you sulk. Maybe it had nothing to do with him, after all. 

But, he’d never know if he didn’t try.

Sighing, he turns back around again and gives you a once over before speaking up once more. “Hey, uh… I feel like maybe we got off on the wrong foot or somethin’. Can we try this again? Tomorrow, maybe.” You huff, but acquiesce, looking up at him with a scowl on your face.

“Sure, fine. Whatever you want, Morales.” You look back down at the papers in your hands as Frankie brightens just a little bit, feeling better at the chance for a fresh start, even if you’re less than enthused about it. He sighs, letting out a breath he didn’t know he was holding in, and turns back to the windshield, eyes trained to the hospital doors that Benny would hopefully be walking back out of soon.

It’s a few more minutes only and he’s doing exactly that, climbing up into the cabin of the helicopter with one of his bright signature smiles that makes Frankie shake his head. They head back to base in silence, unloading themselves and their equipment to clean and sanitize. They restock their bags, reload the chopper, and then they’re left to their own devices again. 

Amazingly, they don't get another call for the rest of their day. Frankie stays largely in the day room with Benny, and he doesn’t see you for the rest of the shift, or even when he goes to leave. Benny walks up to him as he’s slinging his backpack over his shoulder and they walk out of the base together.

“Hey, Fish. Decent first day, I hope?” Frankie sighs, pulling off his hat so he can run his fingers through his hair, putting it right back atop his thick dark curls.

“Decent enough, I guess.” Offering a nervous chuckle, he shifts his backpack on his shoulders as they start to head out. “Very different from flying in the army, that’s for sure.”

Benny smiles back at him. “It’ll take some time to get used to, but you’re a natural. Knew you would be, man.” Frankie nods, appreciative of the compliment, and they continue to walk in silence for a few more steps before he perks up with a question of his own.

“Hey, Benny, can I ask you somethin’?” Benny turns, regarding him as the cadence to their steps slows.

“Sure, man. Whatever you need.” They pause in front of Frankie’s beaten up truck, turning to face one another. Frankie’s head ticks toward the base.

“Is she always… like that? Feel like I did somethin' wrong… real wrong, if I’m being honest. Is she cold like that with everyone? Or is it just me?” Benny lets out a hearty laugh and claps Frankie on the shoulder, squeezing him reassuringly.

“Just give her some time. I think she’ll warm up to you pretty quickly. You’re a good guy, Frankie, so just keep being you. She’ll get there, I promise.” Frankie nods in understanding, accepting Benny’s words with a frustrated huff.

“Alright, If you say so.” They offer each other a curt nod and head in their own directions, Frankie ducking into his car and taking a moment to settle himself before driving off in the direction of his apartment.

~ ~ ~

It takes Phoebe a while to pick up when you call her that night, leaning over your kitchen counter and fidgeting with the handle of your spatula. You almost give up when the line finally connects and you hear her voice at the other end. She’s just slightly out of breath, making you think she must have rushed to find her phone at the other end of her apartment.

“Hellooo,” she sings as a greeting and you hear her sit down in her creaky porch chair, front door falling shut in the background. You sigh before you say anything, but then muster a squeaky “Hey.”

It must be so obvious, the exasperation in your voice, because she makes a sympathetic sound before she asks you what’s wrong.

“Oh no, honey, rough day? What happened?”

You sigh into the phone and plop yourself down in your kitchen chair after flipping your food in the pan. “It’s just… the new pilot. He’s a man so I’m left now as the only woman on the crew. And, even better, he and Benny have been super close for years already, and it was him who recommended him for the job. I’m like the third wheel. It’s horrible!” You can hear a breathy laugh on the other side that she tries to cover up, unsuccessfully. “Oh come on, Phoebs… You’re living your best life in your new cushy job and I’m stuck with these two big burly boys. By myself. You’ve abandoned me!” You’re joking mostly, at this point, but the feelings inside are still real, even if you’re covering them up with a bit of laughter.

“I know. A new start like this is tough. But give the guy a chance. If he’s friends with our Benny, he’s gotta be a good one, right? He deserves a fair shot. Give it a couple of days, and see how you’re feeling about it then. It’s too raw right now to be able to make any real sense of it, anyway.” She pauses for a moment and you take a deep breath, standing up to check on your food.

“I’m sorry, sweetie. I know I didn’t give you much time to prepare for it, either. It’s hard, no matter how you swing it.” You nod your head, even though she can’t see you, and look out into the distance of your living room.

“It is. But you’re right, too. I can give him a couple days, that’s only fair.” You sigh, frustrated to know that she’s right, but always grateful for her advice, anyway.

“Exactly. If it was you in his position, you’d only want the same, wouldn’t you?” 

You huff, her wisdom starting to whittle away at your misplaced rage. “Yeah yeah, voice of reason. I know. I’ll give him a chance.”

She chuckles on the other side of the line. “Now that’s my girl! I’d bet he makes out to be pretty decent, after all. Benny wouldn’t stick his neck out like this for just anyone, and you know that.”

You nod in agreement even though she can’t see you. “Definitely not.”

“So just keep your head up and ride it out. You’ll know soon enough.”