#ofc i want to collapse into his arm for Christ's sake

[senxitive]

Today the person who broke my heart told me that he'd been searching for "me" for a long time, and he finally found "me" when we met

I don't think anyone can understand how much that hurts

[winterisakiller]

Get Better - Chapter Seven

Title: Get Better

Chapter: 7/18

Character: Tom Hiddleston/Cath Richardson (OFC)

Genre: Romance

Rating: Teen and up

Summary: Love. Companionship. Family. These are all of the things Tom Hiddleston desperately wanted. But his life and his choices left that a distant and unlikely prospect. So he did his best to move on and live his life as is. When an opportunity to return to the theater arises, he jumps at the chance and along the way finds that maybe, just maybe, those distant and unlikely prospects are closer than he could have imagined. Sequel to Brave Face.

Authors Notes/Warnings: So as I was writing Brave Face I knew that Tom’s story wasn’t over, even if that particular part of it was. And while I knew, more or less, what the overall ending to the story would be, its taken me a while to figure out the time in between. Thanks to @redfoxwritesstuff for letting me continually throw ideas off and at you. I still can’t fathom why you put up with it, but I am eternally grateful you do. This story will update on Thursdays.

Tag list:@tinchentitri @theheartofpenelope @noplacelikehome77 @blacksuitofdoom @nonsensicalobsessions @messy-insomniac-bookgirl @just-the-hiddles @wolfsmom1 @theoneanna

Previous Chapter

CHAPTER SEVEN

 Cath watched Tom as he jogged out the door towards the staircase, that stupid fucking curl brushing at the back of his neck. No matter what she did (and my god she tried just about everything), that stupid piece of hair refused to lay right. Why it bothered her, Cath couldn’t or wouldn’t let herself think on. It was stupid and she, it seemed, was stupid too.

 “Not interested?” Lorna snorted, “My left foot.”  She burst into laughter at the stern look Cath shot her way. “What? It’s completely obvious to anyone with eyes that the man is taken with you.”

 Letting out a resigned sigh, Cath dropped herself onto the small couch-like chair in the far corner of the room. “Interested or not, it’s not a good idea.”

 “And why ever not?” Lorna crossed the room herself and stood, arms crossed in front of her chest, brows furrowed in exasperation.

 Cath rested her elbows on her knees and turned her face towards Lorna. “We work together for one. And relationships in the work place…Lorn, you know those don’t tend to end well. I like Tom, he is a great guy…”

 Lorna rolled her eyes. “He is a great guy. Like genuinely decent and he is into you the way you are him.” She shot her a knowing look. “Yes, you work together and yeah, it’s not always the best idea, but do you really think the chance of it not working is worth not giving it a go?”

 “It’s not as easy as all that. If he were a normal bloke…”

 “He is a normal bloke,” Lorna cut in, “Albeit one with a slightly less than normal job…” she added with a knowing shrug. “And don’t look at me in the tone of voice, Cath. I know you and I know why you’re hesitating. But he’s not some conceited arse who’s after as much tail as he can get. You and I both have seen enough of that type to know the bloody difference.” She plopped herself down beside Cath, and wrapped an arm around her. “Just give it a go, the worst that could happen is it doesn’t work. And I seriously doubt Tom is the kind of person who would fuck with your career if things went badly.”

 Cath shook her head. “No, he’s probably not. But still…Let me process this whole…” she waved her hands around searching for an appropriate term and, failing to find one, settled on, “thing on my own time.”

 “Fair enough.” Lorna jumped up from the chair and held her hand. Cath took it and allowed her friend to pull her to her feet. “You’re still going to the pub, though.”

 It took all she had not to groan. “I know.”

 Lorna grinned. “Good. Just wanted to make sure that was clear. Now get your coat and let’s go.”

 “But the suit…” She cut her eye to the dressing area. Tom’s suit would need to be hung and placed back on the rack. God forbid the damned thing wrinkled. She’d never hear the end of it. 

 “Cath, we are talking about Tom. I bet you twenty quid that man’s hung the suit up neater than you would.”

 The snort Cath let out was far from refined and both women nearly collapsed again in a fit of laughter. “Fine. Fine,” she relented, wiping the corners of her eyes with her fingers. “And I’m not wagering on it.”

 Lorna grinned. “Cause you know you’ll lose. Besides if it’s not, we can just steam it when we come in tomorrow.” She had pulled on her coat as she spoke and thrust Cath’s at her along with her small bag. “Now let’s go.”

 Shrugging into her own coat (a dark green woolen thing she’d found in an Oxfam several years back) Cath grumbled under her breath as she followed Lorna down the stairs and out of the theatre. The crowd outside was far larger than either woman had expected. Hundreds of people lined the side of the theatre, separated from the actors by a small metal barricade. Dozens of others were on the opposite side of the street, phones out and chatting to one another. Tom stood, his strong back towards them, chatting and smiling with the fans that approached.

Cath stood, staring at the mass of people, until a tug on her arm brought her round. She turned her attention back towards Lorna who mouthed a “wow” before tugging her on the arm, leading them down the street away from the theatre and around the corner towards the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus.

                                                        —

 Tom pushed the glass door of The Queens Head open and quickly made his way inside. It was cold out and he was desperate for the warmth he knew the pub would provide. He’d had the car his manager hired drive him a few blocks away from the theatre before he’d ask the driver to stop and had gotten out to walk the remaining short distance towards the pub. And ended up walking a lap or two around the surrounding area watching the later evening crowd wander from place to place, talking and laughing. It was probably not the smartest thing he’d ever done  (Tom could and would admit) but he needed the air and the walk to try to help clear his head.

 He was still jittery from the show and then later the crowd (while he’d known his fanbase to be...dedicated, he hadn’t expected such an influx of people, not when he’d been more or less ‘quiet’ work wise for the last year or so). And if he were being honest with himself, the almost…whatever it was with Cath back in the dressing room. What had he been thinking? Acting that way. Especially towards a colleague. He’d known better for christ’s sake. He hadn’t been thinking, that was the obvious conclusion. Just acting impulsively and had Lorna not popped up when she had…

 “Oy! Tom!”

 His attention snapped to the far corner of the dimly lit room. Charlie stood, glass raised, waving him over to the table he and the others had acquired. Tom laughed to himself, unbuttoning his coat as he made his way through the room towards the waiting group. The pub was full, but not overly so. Not at all surprising giving it was later in the evening on a Tuesday in the West End. A few people took note of him as he passed, but did nothing but whisper at companions or in a few cases stare, and Tom brushed it off.

 “What took you so long, mate?” Charlie handed him a tumbler of whiskey as he settled in the only open seat. Directly next to Cath. Tom didn’t know whether to laugh or cry at his luck.

 He rested his elbows on the table top and took a brief sip of his whiskey, enjoying the burn of it as it slid down his throat settling in a tiny warm ball in his stomach. He took a breath and shrugged. “I walked for a bit, needed time to get my head back on straight.” Cath cut her eyes briefly towards him before turning her attention back towards Zawe, falling back into their conversation. There was something in her expression that he hadn’t been able to read. He turned his attention back towards Charlie.

 Charlie nodded, taking a sip of his beer. “Fair enough.”

 The two fell into quiet conversation regarding the show and their respective reactions to the response they’d received; Zawe leaning over to chime in  with her own opinion from time to time as she continued her conversation with Lorna and Cath. They’d received a standing ovation, something that never failed amaze him, though Tom had noted a fair few people sneaking out before official curtain call. Charlie and Zawe confirmed they’d noticed as well and all three touched on the lack of proper theatre etiquette in the general public with chuckles and sighs  of exasperated amusement. 

 “You want another?” Zawe leaned over, picking up Tom’s empty tumbler and reaching for Cath’s equally empty wine glass.

 “Sure,” Tom answered with a nod. He hadn’t realized he’d finished it. 

 Out of the corner of his eye, Tom watched Cath push her chair back and reach to take the glasses from Zawe. “Oh no you don’t. This here is to celebrate your guys’ hard work. Let me treat you.”

 She shot Zawe a pointed look and with a laugh, the taller woman conceded.

 “Fine, Richardson. Far be it me to turn down free drinks. But next round’s on me.”

 Cath merely shook her head and made her way through the room back towards the bar.

 “You stare any harder and your eyes’ll fall right out of your head,” Zawe pointed out, her voice snapping Tom’s attention back to the table. She laughed into her hand, eyes flashing in amusement. Beside her Lorna snorted into her wine glass.

 Charlie shrugged and smirked into his beer. “She has a point.”

 Tom scoffed, eyes darting towards the table before rising and locking on Charlie. “Just how much have you lot had to drink?”

 Zawe snorted, “Not nearly enough to buy what you’re trying to sell there, my good man.” She reached across and patted Tom on the shoulder. “I may not be sober as a judge, but I’ve still got my wits about me and you, good sir, were making eyes at our lovely Catherine.”

 “So what if I was looking at her, she’s a beautiful woman and I tend to notice these things. Doesn’t mean anything more than that.”

 “Me thinks the lady doth protest too much,” Lorna quipped, tipping her glass towards Tom and quirking an eyebrow. He shot her a withering look and she giggled in response.

 “You think you are so funny.”

 “Oh I don’t think, my dear man, I know.” She took another sip of wine. “And speaking of knowing…”

 Whatever Lorna had planned to say was cut off by Cath’s return to the table. She smiled handing Zawe her glass of red wine and placing Tom’s whiskey before him. She sipped her own white wine and settled back into her chair. “So, what did I miss?”

 “Nothing of consequence,” Tom answered, raising the tumbler to his lips and taking a generous sip. Both Lorna and Zawe raised their eyebrows at that but said nothing. “Thank you, for the drink.” He tipped the glass in her direction and smiled.

 Cath nodded, raising her own glass in his direction. “Not a problem.” She took a quick swallow and stared quickly down the table. “Don’t all stop talking on my account, unless you’d like me to get irrationally paranoid?”

 Zawe snorted into her own glass, took a sip, and placed it back onto the table. “Just debating the nature of attraction.” Her eyes cut quickly towards Tom and he fought to school his features into a neutral expression.

 “Yeah, how people tend to downplay things when called out on them,” Lorna added.

 “So Zawe,” Tom cut in, attempting to change the direction the conversation was steadily heading in. “Your book launch, that is next month right?”

 Zawe narrowed her eyes slightly but played along all the same. “Yes it is. The third of April. You’re still coming right? I know Charlie here is going. And Lorna and Cath too.” If that helps cement your interest, her look implied.

 Tom suppressed a groan, taking another sip of his whiskey, and nodded. “Like I would miss supporting my lovely, fictional wife.”

 “Oh honey, I knew you cared,” Zawe cooed back with a laugh.

 He reached across the table and gave her hand an affectionate squeeze. “Anything for you, my cuckolding dove.”

 Both dissolved into fits of laughter triggering the rest to quickly follow suit and soon the entire table was enveloped in ruckuses of laughter. It took several minutes and more than a few disapproving glares from other patrons before they were able to calm. The next hour passed in a blur of conversation and laughter.

 Zawe pushed herself to her feet, holding her empty glass up. “Ready for another round ladies and gents?”

 “None for me thanks,” Cath answered with a shake of her head. “Strict two drink limit on work outings for me.”

 “Work outing?” Zawe pouted. “I’m crushed you think this is a work outing.”

 “I thought we were friends,” Tom chimed in. “You bought me coffee. That is like a sacred bond!”

 “That was once,” Cath laughed. “And to be fair you sounded wretched on the phone that day, it was a moment of weakness.”

 Tom tapped his fingers on the table and raised his eyes to hers, widened and glossy with unshed tears, hand resting over his heart. “I am hurt, I tell you. Truly hurt.”

 Cath snorted, “Overdramatic much, Hiddleston? And for that you owe me a coffee.”

 “How about tomorrow before work?” Tom had no idea why he’d blurted it out like that. And from the reactions of everyone else at the table, neither could they. Zawe, Charlie, and Lorna glanced from Tom to Cath and back before glancing at each other and taking sips of their drinks.

 She paused for a moment, uncertainty flashing across her face, and Tom felt his heart pounding in his chest. No reason to be nervous, it’s just bloody coffee. “You think you’re so smooth.”

 Tom leaned towards her and raised an eyebrow. In for a penny, in for a pound. “So that’s a yes then?”

 Amusement sparked in Cath’s eyes. “Why not? I like my lattes with four shots of espresso and extra vanilla.” She leaned forward and kissed his cheek briefly. Tom froze. That was certainly not what he’d expected. Behind him, Tom heard Charlie sputter into his beer and then cover the misstep with a suspiciously timed cough.

 “So drinks?” Zawe called, her own laughter barely suppressed. Lorna and Charlie voiced their consent. Zawe jumped to her feet and clapped her hands together. “Alright. Back in a jiff.” She turned and headed off towards the bar.

 “Well that wasn’t strange at all,” Cath chuckled, settling farther into her seat.

 Charlie shrugged and took another sip of his beer. “That’s acting types for you. We’re an odd lot.”

 “Funny, how could I have missed that?”

                                                              —

 Bobby pulled on his lead, heading towards yet another copse of trees. Tom groaned under his breath and let himself be lead into whatever the damned spaniel had in mind. He was therefore unsurprised when Bobby began to bark explosively, sending pigeons scattering in every direction.

 “Absolute menace,” he grumbled. “Absolutely bloody menace.” He pulled on Bobby’s lead, trying urge him back to the path. With great reluctance the spaniel left his frantic prey and trotted alongside Tom as they finished their morning run. The park was nearly empty, the early hour and the cold keeping most Londoners safe in their homes.

 Two streets from home Tom found himself paused before Oak & Leaf Coffee. The siren song of caffeine called to him and he chanced quick glance at Bobby, wondering if the spaniel would behave enough for a quick dash inside. Large brown eyes locked with his and Tom let out a sigh.

 “Tom. Fancy meeting you here.”

 Cath stood by the shop door, dark hair covered in a brightly colored knitted wooly hat, scarf around her neck, ends tucked inside the opening of her green woolen coat. A quiet smile spread her face and Tom felt his heart thumping wildly in his chest. Her eyes darted from his face down to the pavement and he watched the smile grow slowly but infinitely wider.

 It had been just over a week since the bar and save quiet, polite talk in the chair as she did his stage makeup, Tom had done his best to keep his distance. He liked Cath, far more than he’d truly let himself realize, and that had unnerved him. Add that to the way he’d almost…So he’d pulled back, slipping into the calm and polite mask he’d worn so frequently in the last few years. He’d seen the hesitation in her eyes during the first few days which slowly morphed into a quiet acceptance.

 “And who is this handsome fellow?” She bent down, hand outstretched towards Bobby. The spaniel shoved an inquisitive nose into her palm and, upon finding her to his liking, began to lick at her gloved hand. The laughter such action pulled from her did nothing to calm the trip hammer that had become Tom’s heart.

 “His name’s Bobby. And don’t let that face fool you, he’s an unholy terror.” Tom was pleased the comment came out as calmly as it had. His voice sounded even and remarkably together.

 Cath chuckled and stood once more. “Of that I’ve no doubt. Especially given his owner.” She raised her eyebrow at him and Tom huffed in mock anger with only served to make Cath laugh harder.

 Tom sighed and shot Bobby a commiserating look. “Such disrespect.”

 “Only the best for my favorite grumpy actor,” she teased.

 His grinned and raised his own eyebrow. “Your favorite, am I?”

 “Eh, the day is young and I’m fickle.”

 Around them foot traffic was beginning to pick up as more and more people began to brave the cold on their way to work, shopping, and other such tasks which couldn’t be put off indefinitely. Bobby stood, his gaze darting from passing cars and people to his master and the woman who held his attention. He whined slightly and tugged at his lead.

 “Bobby seems to be keen on heading off,” Cath pointed out as she rocked back and forth on her heels.

 “Keen to get into trouble more like. He’s probably spotted a bird or a squirrel and decided it’s his mortal enemy and therefore needs to be vanquished.” He clicked his tongue once and the spaniel reluctantly relaxed. “London won’t fall if one gets away.”

 Bobby looked up, eyes wide, and Cath laughed. “He looks like you’ve just crushed his heart.”

 Tom laughed. “He’s perfected that look since puppyhood. But that doesn’t mean I’m giving in.” He uttered that last words with a meaningful look in Bobby’s direction.

 They slowly fell into silence. Tom adjusted his grip on Bobby’s lead and took a fortifying breath. “Would you like that coffee now? Vanilla latte with four shots and extra vanilla, right?”

 Cath’s eyes widened slightly before she nodded. “That is correct. But if you are in a hurry you don’t need to…”

 Tom shook his head. “No, no. I was just stopped here debating on seeking out a coffee myself and the wisdom of risking leaving this trouble maker tied to a lamp post so I could dash inside.”

 “Well then, I would gladly accept the coffee you promised now. And if you’d like I could stay here and keep an eye on Bobby here while you dash in. I think I can manage to keep him on the straight and narrow.”

Amusement danced in Tom’s eyes and he nodded. “I’ll be back in a moment then.” He turned back towards the glass and wooden door of the coffee shop and pushed it open. His eyes closed in momentary bliss as the warm, rich scent of fresh ground coffee and sweet, buttery pastry enveloped him.

 The shop was small, a few worn but comfy arm chairs lined the windowed front and the side wall of the room, with polished and sturdy wooden tables placed between. Soft light from the various lamps resting on the tables bathed the room in a warm glow. A handful of patrons sat sipping coffee and reading or talking quietly. Behind the glass and metal counter a bright eyed woman stood, her red hair pulled back in a loose bun and a warm smile on her face. “Welcome to Oak & Leaf, what can I get you this morning?”

 Tom offered a warm smile of his own. “Good morning. I’d like a double espresso, two pain au chocolat and a vanilla latte with four shots and extra vanilla to take away.”

 He ran his card through the chip and pin machine and stood to the side of the counter while she fixed the drinks and placed his pastries into a brown paper bag. Armed with caffeine and sweeties, Tom headed quickly back out into the morning chill. Cath and Bobby had laid claim to one of the metal tables near the storefront and both jumped to attention at his return. Tom placed her cup before her, bowing his head slightly. “Your latte, my lady.”

 Cath stifled a giggle. “You are too much, Hiddleston. Too much.” She picked up the cup and inhaled, eyelids fluttering in bliss. “Thank you.”

 “You are more than welcome,” he answered with a smile as he settled in the seat opposite. “And I’ve bought you something else as well.”

 She quirked an eyebrow, leaning across the table as her eyes focused first on the bag and then back on him. “Did you now?”

 Tom grinned and nodded, opening the brown bag and pulling out one of the pastries. He laughed aloud at the way Cath’s eyes widened at the sight of the warm delight and how she reached almost involuntarily for it. Placing it into her hand, he noted she pulled her gloves off at some point, Tom found himself watching as she picked the pastry apart bit by bit, savoring each piece. Absently, he picked at his own between sips of espresso.

 “So,” Cath started, popping the last bite of pastry into her mouth and chasing it with a quick sip of her latte.

 “So,” Tom echoed, passing his cup back and forth between his hands. A disgruntled bark from below them drew both sets of eyes towards the pavement. Bobby looked up at Tom, wide eyed, and whined. Letting out a resigned sigh, Tom looked up at the woman across from him. “I’d better get him home. I’ll see you at the theatre later?”

 Cath bit her lip and nodded. “Definitely.” She reached across the table, taking one of Tom’s hands in her own and squeezing it lightly. “Thank you again.”

 He smiled warmly at her, returning the squeeze. “It was my pleasure.” He pushed himself to his feet, his remaining espresso in one hand and Bobby’s lead firmly in the other. Bobby leapt up as well, pausing to lick at Cath’s offered hand and let her scratch him affectionately behind the ears.

 They took off down the street towards home; Ton fighting the urge to turn back and look at her once more.

Next Chapter

[winterisakillerwrites]

Get Better - Chapter Seven

Title: Get Better

Chapter: 7/18

Character: Tom Hiddleston/Cath Richardson (OFC)

Genre: Romance

Rating: Teen and up

Summary: Love. Companionship. Family. These are all of the things Tom Hiddleston desperately wanted. But his life and his choices left that a distant and unlikely prospect. So he did his best to move on and live his life as is. When an opportunity to return to the theater arises, he jumps at the chance and along the way finds that maybe, just maybe, those distant and unlikely prospects are closer than he could have imagined. Sequel to Brave Face.

Authors Notes/Warnings: So as I was writing Brave Face I knew that Tom’s story wasn’t over, even if that particular part of it was. And while I knew, more or less, what the overall ending to the story would be, its taken me a while to figure out the time in between. Thanks to @redfoxwritesstuff for letting me continually throw ideas off and at you. I still can’t fathom why you put up with it, but I am eternally grateful you do.

Previous

CHAPTER SEVEN

Cath watched Tom as he jogged out the door towards the staircase, that stupid fucking curl brushing at the back of his neck. No matter what she did (and my god she tried just about everything), that stupid piece of hair refused to lay right. Why it bothered her, Cath couldn’t or wouldn’t let herself think on. It was stupid and she, it seemed, was stupid too.

“Not interested?” Lorna snorted, “My left foot.”  She burst into laughter at the stern look Cath shot her way. “What? It’s completely obvious to anyone with eyes that the man is taken with you.”

Letting out a resigned sigh, Cath dropped herself onto the small couch-like chair in the far corner of the room. “Interested or not, it’s not a good idea.”

“And why ever not?” Lorna crossed the room herself and stood, arms crossed in front of her chest, brows furrowed in exasperation.

Cath rested her elbows on her knees and turned her face towards Lorna. “We work together for one. And relationships in the work place…Lorn, you know those don’t tend to end well. I like Tom, he is a great guy…”

Lorna rolled her eyes. “He is a great guy. Like genuinely decent and he is into you the way you are him.” She shot her a knowing look. “Yes, you work together and yeah, it’s not always the best idea, but do you really think the chance of it not working is worth not giving it a go?”

“It’s not as easy as all that. If he were a normal bloke…”

“He is a normal bloke,” Lorna cut in, “Albeit one with a slightly less than normal job…” she added with a knowing shrug. “And don’t look at me in the tone of voice, Cath. I know you and I know why you’re hesitating. But he’s not some conceited arse who’s after as much tail as he can get. You and I both have seen enough of that type to know the bloody difference.” She plopped herself down beside Cath, and wrapped an arm around her. “Just give it a go, the worst that could happen is it doesn’t work. And I seriously doubt Tom is the kind of person who would fuck with your career if things went badly.”

Cath shook her head. “No, he’s probably not. But still…Let me process this whole…” she waved her hands around searching for an appropriate term and, failing to find one, settled on, “thing on my own time.”

“Fair enough.” Lorna jumped up from the chair and held her hand. Cath took it and allowed her friend to pull her to her feet. “You’re still going to the pub, though.”

It took all she had not to groan. “I know.”

Lorna grinned. “Good. Just wanted to make sure that was clear. Now get your coat and let’s go.”

“But the suit…” She cut her eye to the dressing area. Tom’s suit would need to be hung and placed back on the rack. God forbid the damned thing wrinkled. She’d never hear the end of it.

“Cath, we are talking about Tom. I bet you twenty quid that man’s hung the suit up neater than you would.”

The snort Cath let out was far from refined and both women nearly collapsed again in a fit of laughter. “Fine. Fine,” she relented, wiping the corners of her eyes with her fingers. “And I’m not wagering on it.”

Lorna grinned. “Cause you know you’ll lose. Besides if it’s not, we can just steam it when we come in tomorrow.” She had pulled on her coat as she spoke and thrust Cath’s at her along with her small bag. “Now let’s go.”

Shrugging into her own coat (a dark green woolen thing she’d found in an Oxfam several years back) Cath grumbled under her breath as she followed Lorna down the stairs and out of the theatre. The crowd outside was far larger than either woman had expected. Hundreds of people lined the side of the theatre, separated from the actors by a small metal barricade. Dozens of others were on the opposite side of the street, phones out and chatting to one another. Tom stood, his strong back towards them, chatting and smiling with the fans that approached.

Cath stood, staring at the mass of people, until a tug on her arm brought her round. She turned her attention back towards Lorna who mouthed a “wow” before tugging her on the arm, leading them down the street away from the theatre and around the corner towards the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus.

                                                      —

Tom pushed the glass door of The Queens Head open and quickly made his way inside. It was cold out and he was desperate for the warmth he knew the pub would provide. He’d had the car his manager hired drive him a few blocks away from the theatre before he’d ask the driver to stop and had gotten out to walk the remaining short distance towards the pub. And ended up walking a lap or two around the surrounding area watching the later evening crowd wander from place to place, talking and laughing. It was probably not the smartest thing he’d ever done  (Tom could and would admit) but he needed the air and the walk to try to help clear his head.

He was still jittery from the show and then later the crowd (while he’d known his fanbase to be…dedicated, he hadn’t expected such an influx of people, not when he’d been more or less ‘quiet’ work wise for the last year or so). And if he were being honest with himself, the almost…whatever it was with Cath back in the dressing room. What had he been thinking? Acting that way. Especially towards a colleague. He’d known better for christ’s sake. He hadn’t been thinking, that was the obvious conclusion. Just acting impulsively and had Lorna not popped up when she had…

“Oy! Tom!”

His attention snapped to the far corner of the dimly lit room. Charlie stood, glass raised, waving him over to the table he and the others had acquired. Tom laughed to himself, unbuttoning his coat as he made his way through the room towards the waiting group. The pub was full, but not overly so. Not at all surprising giving it was later in the evening on a Tuesday in the West End. A few people took note of him as he passed, but did nothing but whisper at companions or in a few cases stare, and Tom brushed it off.

“What took you so long, mate?” Charlie handed him a tumbler of whiskey as he settled in the only open seat. Directly next to Cath. Tom didn’t know whether to laugh or cry at his luck.

He rested his elbows on the table top and took a brief sip of his whiskey, enjoying the burn of it as it slid down his throat settling in a tiny warm ball in his stomach. He took a breath and shrugged. “I walked for a bit, needed time to get my head back on straight.” Cath cut her eyes briefly towards him before turning her attention back towards Zawe, falling back into their conversation. There was something in her expression that he hadn’t been able to read. He turned his attention back towards Charlie.

Charlie nodded, taking a sip of his beer. “Fair enough.”

The two fell into quiet conversation regarding the show and their respective reactions to the response they’d received; Zawe leaning over to chime in  with her own opinion from time to time as she continued her conversation with Lorna and Cath. They’d received a standing ovation, something that never failed amaze him, though Tom had noted a fair few people sneaking out before official curtain call. Charlie and Zawe confirmed they’d noticed as well and all three touched on the lack of proper theatre etiquette in the general public with chuckles and sighs  of exasperated amusement.

“You want another?” Zawe leaned over, picking up Tom’s empty tumbler and reaching for Cath’s equally empty wine glass.

“Sure,” Tom answered with a nod. He hadn’t realized he’d finished it.

Out of the corner of his eye, Tom watched Cath push her chair back and reach to take the glasses from Zawe. “Oh no you don’t. This here is to celebrate your guys’ hard work. Let me treat you.”

She shot Zawe a pointed look and with a laugh, the taller woman conceded.

“Fine, Richardson. Far be it me to turn down free drinks. But next round’s on me.”

Cath merely shook her head and made her way through the room back towards the bar.

“You stare any harder and your eyes’ll fall right out of your head,” Zawe pointed out, her voice snapping Tom’s attention back to the table. She laughed into her hand, eyes flashing in amusement. Beside her Lorna snorted into her wine glass.

Charlie shrugged and smirked into his beer. “She has a point.”

Tom scoffed, eyes darting towards the table before rising and locking on Charlie. “Just how much have you lot had to drink?”

Zawe snorted, “Not nearly enough to buy what you’re trying to sell there, my good man.” She reached across and patted Tom on the shoulder. “I may not be sober as a judge, but I’ve still got my wits about me and you, good sir, were making eyes at our lovely Catherine.”

“So what if I was looking at her, she’s a beautiful woman and I tend to notice these things. Doesn’t mean anything more than that.”

“Me thinks the lady doth protest too much,” Lorna quipped, tipping her glass towards Tom and quirking an eyebrow. He shot her a withering look and she giggled in response.

“You think you are so funny.”

“Oh I don’t think, my dear man, I know.” She took another sip of wine. “And speaking of knowing…”

Whatever Lorna had planned to say was cut off by Cath’s return to the table. She smiled handing Zawe her glass of red wine and placing Tom’s whiskey before him. She sipped her own white wine and settled back into her chair. “So, what did I miss?”

“Nothing of consequence,” Tom answered, raising the tumbler to his lips and taking a generous sip. Both Lorna and Zawe raised their eyebrows at that but said nothing. “Thank you, for the drink.” He tipped the glass in her direction and smiled.

Cath nodded, raising her own glass in his direction. “Not a problem.” She took a quick swallow and stared quickly down the table. “Don’t all stop talking on my account, unless you’d like me to get irrationally paranoid?”

Zawe snorted into her own glass, took a sip, and placed it back onto the table. “Just debating the nature of attraction.” Her eyes cut quickly towards Tom and he fought to school his features into a neutral expression.

“Yeah, how people tend to downplay things when called out on them,” Lorna added.

“So Zawe,” Tom cut in, attempting to change the direction the conversation was steadily heading in. “Your book launch, that is next month right?”

Zawe narrowed her eyes slightly but played along all the same. “Yes it is. The third of April. You’re still coming right? I know Charlie here is going. And Lorna and Cath too.” If that helps cement your interest, her look implied.

Tom suppressed a groan, taking another sip of his whiskey, and nodded. “Like I would miss supporting my lovely, fictional wife.”

“Oh honey, I knew you cared,” Zawe cooed back with a laugh.

He reached across the table and gave her hand an affectionate squeeze. “Anything for you, my cuckolding dove.”

Both dissolved into fits of laughter triggering the rest to quickly follow suit and soon the entire table was enveloped in ruckuses of laughter. It took several minutes and more than a few disapproving glares from other patrons before they were able to calm. The next hour passed in a blur of conversation and laughter.

Zawe pushed herself to her feet, holding her empty glass up. “Ready for another round ladies and gents?”

“None for me thanks,” Cath answered with a shake of her head. “Strict two drink limit on work outings for me.”

“Work outing?” Zawe pouted. “I’m crushed you think this is a work outing.”

“I thought we were friends,” Tom chimed in. “You bought me coffee. That is like a sacred bond!”

“That was once,” Cath laughed. “And to be fair you sounded wretched on the phone that day, it was a moment of weakness.”

Tom tapped his fingers on the table and raised his eyes to hers, widened and glossy with unshed tears, hand resting over his heart. “I am hurt, I tell you. Truly hurt.”

Cath snorted, “Overdramatic much, Hiddleston? And for that you owe me a coffee.”

“How about tomorrow before work?” Tom had no idea why he’d blurted it out like that. And from the reactions of everyone else at the table, neither could they. Zawe, Charlie, and Lorna glanced from Tom to Cath and back before glancing at each other and taking sips of their drinks.

She paused for a moment, uncertainty flashing across her face, and Tom felt his heart pounding in his chest. No reason to be nervous, it’s just bloody coffee. “You think you’re so smooth.”

Tom leaned towards her and raised an eyebrow. In for a penny, in for a pound. “So that’s a yes then?”

Amusement sparked in Cath’s eyes. “Why not? I like my lattes with four shots of espresso and extra vanilla.” She leaned forward and kissed his cheek briefly. Tom froze. That was certainly not what he’d expected. Behind him, Tom heard Charlie sputter into his beer and then cover the misstep with a suspiciously timed cough.

“So drinks?” Zawe called, her own laughter barely suppressed. Lorna and Charlie voiced their consent. Zawe jumped to her feet and clapped her hands together. “Alright. Back in a jiff.” She turned and headed off towards the bar.

“Well that wasn’t strange at all,” Cath chuckled, settling farther into her seat.

Charlie shrugged and took another sip of his beer. “That’s acting types for you. We’re an odd lot.”

“Funny, how could I have missed that?”

                                                            —

Bobby pulled on his lead, heading towards yet another copse of trees. Tom groaned under his breath and let himself be lead into whatever the damned spaniel had in mind. He was therefore unsurprised when Bobby began to bark explosively, sending pigeons scattering in every direction.

“Absolute menace,” he grumbled. “Absolutely bloody menace.” He pulled on Bobby’s lead, trying urge him back to the path. With great reluctance the spaniel left his frantic prey and trotted alongside Tom as they finished their morning run. The park was nearly empty, the early hour and the cold keeping most Londoners safe in their homes.

Two streets from home Tom found himself paused before Oak & Leaf Coffee. The siren song of caffeine called to him and he chanced quick glance at Bobby, wondering if the spaniel would behave enough for a quick dash inside. Large brown eyes locked with his and Tom let out a sigh.

“Tom. Fancy meeting you here.”

Cath stood by the shop door, dark hair covered in a brightly colored knitted wooly hat, scarf around her neck, ends tucked inside the opening of her green woolen coat. A quiet smile spread her face and Tom felt his heart thumping wildly in his chest. Her eyes darted from his face down to the pavement and he watched the smile grow slowly but infinitely wider.

It had been just over a week since the bar and save quiet, polite talk in the chair as she did his stage makeup, Tom had done his best to keep his distance. He liked Cath, far more than he’d truly let himself realize, and that had unnerved him. Add that to the way he’d almost…So he’d pulled back, slipping into the calm and polite mask he’d worn so frequently in the last few years. He’d seen the hesitation in her eyes during the first few days which slowly morphed into a quiet acceptance.

“And who is this handsome fellow?” She bent down, hand outstretched towards Bobby. The spaniel shoved an inquisitive nose into her palm and, upon finding her to his liking, began to lick at her gloved hand. The laughter such action pulled from her did nothing to calm the trip hammer that had become Tom’s heart.

“His name’s Bobby. And don’t let that face fool you, he’s an unholy terror.” Tom was pleased the comment came out as calmly as it had. His voice sounded even and remarkably together.

Cath chuckled and stood once more. “Of that I’ve no doubt. Especially given his owner.” She raised her eyebrow at him and Tom huffed in mock anger with only served to make Cath laugh harder.

Tom sighed and shot Bobby a commiserating look. “Such disrespect.”

“Only the best for my favorite grumpy actor,” she teased.

His grinned and raised his own eyebrow. “Your favorite, am I?”

“Eh, the day is young and I’m fickle.”

Around them foot traffic was beginning to pick up as more and more people began to brave the cold on their way to work, shopping, and other such tasks which couldn’t be put off indefinitely. Bobby stood, his gaze darting from passing cars and people to his master and the woman who held his attention. He whined slightly and tugged at his lead.

“Bobby seems to be keen on heading off,” Cath pointed out as she rocked back and forth on her heels.

“Keen to get into trouble more like. He’s probably spotted a bird or a squirrel and decided it’s his mortal enemy and therefore needs to be vanquished.” He clicked his tongue once and the spaniel reluctantly relaxed. “London won’t fall if one gets away.”

Bobby looked up, eyes wide, and Cath laughed. “He looks like you’ve just crushed his heart.”

Tom laughed. “He’s perfected that look since puppyhood. But that doesn’t mean I’m giving in.” He uttered that last words with a meaningful look in Bobby’s direction.

They slowly fell into silence. Tom adjusted his grip on Bobby’s lead and took a fortifying breath. “Would you like that coffee now? Vanilla latte with four shots and extra vanilla, right?”

Cath’s eyes widened slightly before she nodded. “That is correct. But if you are in a hurry you don’t need to…”

Tom shook his head. “No, no. I was just stopped here debating on seeking out a coffee myself and the wisdom of risking leaving this trouble maker tied to a lamp post so I could dash inside.”

“Well then, I would gladly accept the coffee you promised now. And if you’d like I could stay here and keep an eye on Bobby here while you dash in. I think I can manage to keep him on the straight and narrow.”

Amusement danced in Tom’s eyes and he nodded. “I’ll be back in a moment then.” He turned back towards the glass and wooden door of the coffee shop and pushed it open. His eyes closed in momentary bliss as the warm, rich scent of fresh ground coffee and sweet, buttery pastry enveloped him.

The shop was small, a few worn but comfy arm chairs lined the windowed front and the side wall of the room, with polished and sturdy wooden tables placed between. Soft light from the various lamps resting on the tables bathed the room in a warm glow. A handful of patrons sat sipping coffee and reading or talking quietly. Behind the glass and metal counter a bright eyed woman stood, her red hair pulled back in a loose bun and a warm smile on her face. “Welcome to Oak & Leaf, what can I get you this morning?”

Tom offered a warm smile of his own. “Good morning. I’d like a double espresso, two pain au chocolat and a vanilla latte with four shots and extra vanilla to take away.”

He ran his card through the chip and pin machine and stood to the side of the counter while she fixed the drinks and placed his pastries into a brown paper bag. Armed with caffeine and sweeties, Tom headed quickly back out into the morning chill. Cath and Bobby had laid claim to one of the metal tables near the storefront and both jumped to attention at his return. Tom placed her cup before her, bowing his head slightly. “Your latte, my lady.”

Cath stifled a giggle. “You are too much, Hiddleston. Too much.” She picked up the cup and inhaled, eyelids fluttering in bliss. “Thank you.”

“You are more than welcome,” he answered with a smile as he settled in the seat opposite. “And I’ve bought you something else as well.”

She quirked an eyebrow, leaning across the table as her eyes focused first on the bag and then back on him. “Did you now?”

Tom grinned and nodded, opening the brown bag and pulling out one of the pastries. He laughed aloud at the way Cath’s eyes widened at the sight of the warm delight and how she reached almost involuntarily for it. Placing it into her hand, he noted she pulled her gloves off at some point, Tom found himself watching as she picked the pastry apart bit by bit, savoring each piece. Absently, he picked at his own between sips of espresso.

“So,” Cath started, popping the last bite of pastry into her mouth and chasing it with a quick sip of her latte.

“So,” Tom echoed, passing his cup back and forth between his hands. A disgruntled bark from below them drew both sets of eyes towards the pavement. Bobby looked up at Tom, wide eyed, and whined. Letting out a resigned sigh, Tom looked up at the woman across from him. “I’d better get him home. I’ll see you at the theatre later?”

Cath bit her lip and nodded. “Definitely.” She reached across the table, taking one of Tom’s hands in her own and squeezing it lightly. “Thank you again.”

He smiled warmly at her, returning the squeeze. “It was my pleasure.” He pushed himself to his feet, his remaining espresso in one hand and Bobby’s lead firmly in the other. Bobby leapt up as well, pausing to lick at Cath’s offered hand and let her scratch him affectionately behind the ears.

They took off down the street towards home; Ton fighting the urge to turn back and look at her once more.

Next

[creativeashproductions]

Blessing in Disguise // Scott McCall

Summary: As a newlywed you were anticipating a blessing coming into your lives until you were ready. A cold night brings a new member into your family while also juggling the pack. Are you and Scott ready for the responsibility?

Characters: Scott McCall x Reader, OFC!Andy, Stiles Stilinski, Lydia Martin, Malia Tate, Sheriff Stilinski, Melissa McCall, Jackson x Ethan, Nolan Holloway (a reluctant pack member), Theo Raeken, Mason x Corey, Derek Hale, Liam Dunbar, OC!Reese, and OFC!Lucy.

Words: 4181

Disclaimer: I do now own Teen Wolf or the characters. I do not own any gifs that appear in this either or images because they’re probably off google images.

Warnings: Possible swearing, mention of death, car accident, angst, fluff and fighting.

Author: Caitsy.

A/N: A twisted version of the movie Life as We Know It with Katherine Heigel and Josh Duhamel.

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You stood there in the room staring at the little baby girl in a carrier ever so carefully set on the Sheriff’s desk. All she was did was sleeping through what you would consider the most life changing and heartbreaking thing. When Sheriff Stilinski called you into the station following a huge devastation in your life you didn’t expect this.

You twisted your ring on your wedding finger as the repercussions of losing your best friend impacted your life. Yesterday you were just a new wife of barely two months and now you were a mother also. And not in the traditional sense you had envisioned. Instead of happy, exhausted tears after a birth your face was painted with streams of watered down makeup and pain filled heart.

“W-what happened exactly?” You meekly questioned as a social worker stood stationary near the baby.

“Lucy and Reese were on their way home when a drunk driver hit them.” Sheriff Stilinski slowly began just at the door to his office burst open. You husband stood there taking in the room.

“Did they…they suffer?” You asked pressing your hand under your chin trying to keep from crying again.

“The medical examiner told me the force of the crash would have immediately died on impact. Their car was towed out of the water and a quick examination showed no struggle in their lungs.” Sheriff replied.

“What’s going on?”

“Scott. Lucy and Reese were killed last night around midnight.”

“They…they were celebrating their anniversary. It was the first night they weren’t home with Andy since they were still expecting.” You spoke. Your eyes still trained on the innocent little girl.

“Why are we here?” Your husband said coming closer to press a hand on your lower back. He was still in the scrubs he had left home in this morning.

“Lucy and Reese named you as the guardians for Andy if things would come to that.” The social worker replied stepping forward with her hand held out, “I’m Jane. I’ve been working after Andy since she was put in my care.”

“Wait. We’re now the parents of a little child?”

“Yes.”

“A cat or dog is significantly different from a baby.”

“Mr. McCall you have the right to make a decision if you want to place Andy up for adoption or not.” Jane said grabbing a bag to hand to you, “I’ve placed a list in the diaper bag of what you’ll need and how you should care for her. I know the first night is overwhelming amid the other emotions.”

“Uh. Thanks.” You mumbled while Sheriff sent a sympathetic smile at the two of you. Jane smiled reassuringly before she walked out of the office.

“I’ll drive you guys home.” Sheriff said grabbing his jacket from the hook.

“We can drive.” Scott said slowly walking to the carrier. His eyes were glued to the still form breathing with her lips only a tiny bit open.

“No you can’t. Scott you’re not blinking and not thinking properly.” Sheriff said placing his hand on Scott’s shoulder, “I’ll ask Parrish to take me home. Besides I still know my way around a car seat instalment.”

Needless to say Scott and you stood beside the car with Andy beginning to wake up and hushed profanities in the backseat. Sheriff was still trying to figure out the car seat.

“These damn things have changed!” Sheriff grunted leaning back to glare at the damn contraption.

“Things have changed Sheriff.” Scott chuckled, “You haven’t needed once since Stiles was a baby.”

“It shouldn’t be this difficult.”

“It’s been twenty-seven years since Stiles was physically able to fit in one.” You muttered as Scott awkwardly swayed Andy as her lip began to quiver.

“Don’t remind me that my adult son and the energy of a kid still.” Sheriff sighed pushing his hands into his hair as the rain started to fall, “That’s it.”

“Call Lydia?” Scott and you spoke at the same time knowing the genius would know. For christ sake she began a qualified professor because she was bored.

“I’d rather not call Ethan and Jackson.” You sighed rolling your eyes, “Jackson gloats about his kid and he would hold this over our head.”

“Jackson’s putting Max into kid lacrosse.” Scott replied, “He asked me if he would help train him.”

“Jackson did?” You asked shocked.

“Okay maybe Ethan asked me.” Scott chuckled as headlights lit you guys up and an annoyed girl got out of the vehicle.

“What do you need?” Lydia asked shutting her car off to join you, “When did you get pregnant and have a baby? I just saw you on Saturday.”

“This is Andy.” You grimaced as you remembered how you become the caregiver for the little girl.

“Andy as in Reese and Lucy’s little girl?” Lydia questioned stepping back in shock, “Lydia hadn’t been close with the couple but she had talked to them a little in high school.

“They were in an accident last night.” Scott supplied as Andy began to coo.

“Did they…”

“Yeah. They named us as the guardians.” Scott sighed as Lydia swooped in to correctly place the car seat in before undoing the straps of Andy to pull her jacket down and redoing the straps once she was done.

“Thank you.” You whispered watching as Andy latched onto her bunny with her mouth.

“If you need help call the Whittemores.” Lydia said beginning to walk back to her car, “Good luck.”

“This is really happening.” You sighed as Scott helped you to sit in the backseat before climbing into the front seat with the Sheriff.

“You’ll do fine. You have friends and family that will help.” Sheriff calmly stated, “You’ll figure it out.”

You had gotten into your small apartment while Sheriff was picked up by Parrish to return to the station. Scott placed Andy on the table before you realized something. You didn’t have anything for Andy to sleep in.

“Shit.” You groaned.

“Don’t swear in front of her.” Scott glared as he undid the straps to take Andy into his arms.

“We don’t have anything other than her diaper bag and carseat.” You sighed collapsing into the chair.

“Can we put her on the couch?”

“No. It’s not safe.” You sighed as the doorbell rang. Getting up you opened the door to see Ethan standing there with a small box and a larger one. Behind him Jackson stood holding their four year old son with striking features that matched Jackson.

“Lydia called us.” Ethan smiled coming in to place the boxes in the living room, “We have Max’s old crib and an extra play pen for you.”

“We got new things for our unborn baby.” Jackson smirked, “You can have the old ones.”

“Jackson shut up.” Ethan hissed before rolling his eyes.

“Your having another baby?” You questioned surprised.

“Our surrogate agreed to carry our baby again. We used Ethan’s sperm this time.”

“Sperm!” Max squealed clapping his hands together. Ethan groaned sending a heated glare to his husband.

“Stop talking.”

“Uh thanks.” Scott said grabbing one of the boxes to take to the spare room you had. It was empty seeing as you guys were saving up money for a house and you had just moved in last month.

“You should set up the play pen in your room for the night. She’ll want her parents and supporting her with help you all bond together.” Ethan said kneeling in the spare the spare bedroom to build the crib. Jackson bounced Max as the little boy yawned feeling the late night.

“Don’t heat the bottle in the microwave.” Jackson inserted, “Read stories to her.”

“Call if you need help.” Ethan said leaning back once the things were set up. Reaching for Jackson’s hand he led his family out of the apartment leaving you and Scott severely overwhelmed.

“We can do this right?” Scott gulped.

“I think so.” You nervously replied as Andy’s lip bang to quiver, “Is she going to-“

Andy interrupted your sentence by beginning to cry an insane amount. Shoving your hands into  your hair you winced at the height of the crying. What the hell do you do?

“What the hell.” Scott stated racing towards the diaper bag where three sheets of typed instructions were. Tips on what to do and how to do it.

“Maybe she’s hungry?” You suggested. Following the instructions to a ’t’ you gently picked up Andy from Scott to feed her. The only problem was that she immediately turned her face away, “Okay not hungry.”

“I’m calling my mom.” Scott called out over the screaming. You nodded while gently swaying with Andy.

You hummed remembering how you watched people in public places soothe their children but nothing was working. Her diaper was clean. She wasn’t hungry and the paper said she wasn’t teething yet. In the time you had seen her when her parents were living you barely remembered how they soothed her.

“I don’t think we can do this.” Scott sighed rubbing his tear-filled eyes. You were close to calling the social worker.

“Hey little bug.” You barely even heard Melissa walk into the apartment. Her soothing voice persuaded Andy to quiet down before she was smoothly switched into Melissa’s arms, “I’m Melissa. I’m his mother.”

While her screams weren’t as loud that didn’t mean that Andy was calming down at all. You were tempted to find any alcohol in the damn apartment but with Scott being unaffected you didn’t have any. Besides you didn’t want to start reluctant motherhood off as a drunken fool.

“Sweetheart you have stop crying. Hey can I tell you a story?” Melissa cooed gently bouncing Andy in her arms while supporting her head.

“Please. Please just stop crying.” You whimpered shoving your face into your hands. You didn’t even need to look to know that Scott was in the same boat.

It all came to a stop when Andy sighed before a sharp cute giggle came from her mouth. in her little hands was a slightly raggedy stuffed animal that had seen better days. You awed when Andy pulled the stuffed animal into her arms.

“How did you do that?” Scott marvelled with new respect for his mother.

“You were exactly the same. If you were crying and nothing helped we would give you this and you would quit crying on the spot.” Melissa explained, “This is Bear. It was yours.”

Scott smiled as his mother navigated parenthood with Andy within just a few moment. It was more calming then watching Ethan built both a crib and a play pen within ten minutes. It was more than a brainiac properly place a car seat in. It was knowing that a woman raising a son with a barely there father and then as the only parent he knew. If his mother could do this alone then Scott could do it with you.

“Thanks mom.” Scott whispered.

“It’s nothing.” Melissa grinned, “It’s more for my benefit because she is too cute.”

“I respect you so much more now.” Scott admitted hesitating to come closer to Andy.

“I’ll give you a tip. Parenting isn’t a science, you can’t learn everything from a book or an app. You learn through examples and by going through this. It’s scary, that I won’t lie, but it’s the most rewarding part of life.”

“Thank you.” You sighed as Melissa began to show you how to place Andy down and a visual presentation on how to do things.

“Did you know she doesn’t have a middle name?” You asked Scott as you sipped from the coffee cup early in the morning. You liked seeing a bare chested Scott cuddling Andy at the breakfast table while feeding her a bottle.

“She doesn’t?”

“When Lucy told me her name was Andy I asked her what the middle name was. Lucy told me that they wanted to choose her middle name when she was little older because it was a family tradition in Reese’s family.”

“Did they ever pick a name?”

“No. I wanted you to consider maybe giving her Reese as a middle name? I remember that Lucy was telling me that Reese is a family name. I want to keep that going so that Andy always had a piece of family.” You explained picking at the toast in front of you.

“We’ve had Andy for a week now. Have we decided if we want to keep her?” Scott asked shifting Andy into a proper burping position. He was rewarded with an adorable burp.

“I think we both know.” You chuckled looking at the little girl that was beginning to look like Lucy more and more each day.

“We should tell the pack.” Scott said looking up, “We could finally tell them that we have a little girl.”

“Guess we don’t need to find a babysitter for today.” You chuckled making faces at Andy.

That pack was having a more private school reunion to both celebrate surviving the perils of the supernatural. Things fluctuated in the town every once in a while with the large amount of the town knowing about the supernatural. If you were supernatural you were accepted by everyone but you were also aware of that invisible line between the humans and you guys.

“Do you think Lydia told Stiles?”

“Probably not.” You shrugged, “They haven’t spoke to each other in two years. Do you know what went wrong there? Lydia won’t tell me anything.” 
“Stiles won’t either.” Scott sighed, “They were together for nearly six years and out of no where broke up?”

“Distance?”

“Can’t be.” You huffed before grabbing Andy, “It’s my time on diaper duty.”

It was hard to adjust to having to remember you weren’t caring only for yourself anymore. You had to take it account of packing extra outfits if you went out for Andy, diapers and formula. You had make a schedule and not get frustrated when Andy woke you up in the night. You already loved her to bits though.

Of course you weren’t a whiz at parenthood yet, you called Melissa at least three days a day now which questions that most parents would find stupid. Melissa found it endearing and quite frankly was pleased that you two came to her for help instead of modern day technology.

“Did you grab extra diapers?” You called out with your keys in hand. You had placed your second hand car up for sale to get a better model, it would put a dent in your finances but you wanted safety for Andy.

“Yeah. Wipes are in there also.” Scott replied strapping Andy into her car seat with her ever present Bear. You swore she never could part with it unless it was bath time because her ducky took the role.

“We have the swing right?” You questioned turning the lights off in the room.

“Jackson and Ethan have their swing still set up.” Scott returned before opening up his newer SUV. His bike was still beside in it’s usual parking spot. Selling your car would allow you to use the SUV until you could buy a second hand vehicle of your own.

“We have everything.” You sighed as Andy gurgled with Bear’s ear in her mouth. The short journey to the Whittemore house was longer than usual and filled with the happy coos from the back seat.

Scott drove slower with Andy in the vehicle even if it meant getting rude gestures and yelling from passing vehicles. He couldn’t help it, you were both responsible for the safety of a vulnerable little human that couldn’t heal like Scott.

“How do you think Stiles will react?” You asked as the beat up jeep came into view parked on the street.

“It’s Stiles. We can’t right off the bat know what will happen.” Scott chuckled, “You want to grab the diaper bag?”

“Sure.” You shrugged while your husband shut the vehicle off to grab the curious baby.

Before either of you got to the door Ethan was already standing there with the door open and a welcoming smile on his face. Jackson would never truly admit it but marrying Ethan had mellowed him out and brought out of his egotistical self loathing. That and having a miniature version of himself helped.

“Hey guys.” Ethan smiled motioning you to step into the large foyer. Ethan knelt down to see Andy in all her glory.

You however continued into the living room where the pack was congregating as usual. Malia stood with her hands in her pockets striking up a conversation with Mason whereas Theo and Liam were bickering as usual. Corey was sitting the couch close to Mason. Nolan was shuffling on his feet under Stiles still suspicious look. Lydia was in a conversation with Alec, the newest member after the battle with Gerard and Monroe in Beacon Hills.

“I’m not into fashion or understanding it but that’s a strange version of a handbag.” Stiles said as you walked into the living room with the diaper bag resting on one shoulder.

“That’s because it isn’t.” Scott called out as he walked into the room.

“Who’s that?” Stiles asked walking closer, “I haven’t not seen you in nine months and I’m sure you would have told me about your child.”

“This is Andy. A week ago she came into our lives.”


“She looks a little older than a week.” Malia inserted sniffing the air to catch the baby’s scent, “Besides Y/N hasn’t changed.”

“This Lucy and Reese’s daughter. They were in an accident and we’re Andy’s guardians.”

“And you didn’t tell me?” Stiles burst.

“They don’t have to tell you anything Stiles.” Lydia huffed rolling her eyes.

“Sounds like someone I know.” Stiles snapped back.

“Can you go have sex? I’m drowning in your pheromones and it’s annoying.” Malia grunted with a huff of breathe. She’s gotten better with the filter but it’s still a work in progress.

“Shut up.” Stiles grunted raising his hand to scratch his scruff that had build on his face. His eyes still that whiskey brown colour but it lacked the same youthful expression in them. He was haunted both by the supernatural and human nature of his life.

“She’s cute. Good thing she isn’t Scott’s kid.” Mason joked leaning in to get a look at the carseat, “You are adorable.”

“She is pretty cute.” Nolan blushed as eyes locked onto him. While he wasn’t going around stabbing random people he was still awkward.

“That’s a lot of responsibility.” Stiles interjected earning a heavy eyeroll from his ex-girlfriend.

“I think I can handle a baby if I can handle you.” Scott retorted as he began to unstrap Andy to meet everyone in the room. The poor baby was curious about everyone in the room that exuded power.

Being passed around wasn’t the greatest thing for a young child still adapting to life but she was irresistible to the pack. Even Theo was taken with the little girl that he wanted to sit by and talk because an innocent child wouldn’t know about the things he had done and judge him. Of course Stiles would try to keep him away.

“That’s rude.” Stiles chortled fearful when Andy reached out to him. Andy shoved her fist into her mouth while staring at the male, “Why is she staring at me?”

“Maybe she likes your ugly mug.” Theo smirked earning another glare from his least favourite person.

“I’m guessing we can’t use the alcohol?” Malia questioned.

“It wouldn’t even work on you.” Mason said shaking his head.

“But it’s fun to drink and watch others be idiots.” Malia retorted crossing her arms.

“No alcohol.” Lydia said shaking her head as she wandered closer to the baby, “Can I hold her?”



“She seems pretty enamored with Stiles.” You said shifting on your feet.

“I don’t know why.” Lydia breathed rolling her eyes at the mention of her ex-boyfriend.

“You were once enamored with me too.” Stiles goaded with an uncharacteristic smirk painted on his face. Scott and you slowly backed out of the room causing a rippling effect when everyone else began to also.

Unaware of not having an audience Lydia and Stiles came toe to toe as the tension burst from the awkwardness and agony between each. In the two years each had manage to not speak to one another amid the reasoning behind being stubborn. Each didn’t want to admit that the relationship failed because they weren’t properly communicating like they should have.

“Does anyone know why they broke up?” You challenged sitting on the lounge chair in the backyard. Everyone had found their own little spot to converse on while the two inside continued.

“Honestly?” Malia asked, “Lydia wouldn’t budge and she always managed to keep her chemo-signals from giving away her reactions.”

“It’s the same with Stiles. He did everything he could to not be in the presence of us. Making excuses of working and broken down vehicles.” Scott admitted bouncing Andy on his knee, “In the time since their relationship ended I’ve only seen him in person a few times and our wedding was the longest.”

“It’s Stiles.” Jackson snorted leaning back in his chair. Ethan keeping a hand on his thigh as he did so.

“It was bound to explode.” Corey said shifting on his feet, “Like the fight between Scott and Stiles when Theo was still an ass-“

“Still is.” Liam mumbled dodging a swing from the boy in question.

“It’s my house and I’m kicked out of it.” Jackson grunted.

“We don’t use the backyard much.” Ethan hummed looking over the large green fenced in area.


“That’s because we’re either in the living room, kitchen or spending quality time in our bed.” Jackson retorted with a playful smirk.

“There’s no fighting.” Malia interrupted cocking her head to the side, “It’s silent.”

Sharing a look with Scott you gently shifted Andy from your arms into Liam’s. Like Stiles Liam looked fearful at being left with a baby. Pushing the door open you slinked in with some pack members behind you to peak into the living room. Standing in the middle of the room with his one hand in her hair and her head resting on his chest was a serene image of the couple you remembered from graduation.

“Maybe we should take Andy to the park before it gets dark.” Jackson whispered to the group.

“Are you being nice to Stiles.” You questioned shocked.

“I don’t care about the spaz. I care about her, she’s had it rough her entire life and I admit I contributed to it. She deserves happiness and he makes her happy.” Jackson lightly smiled pulling Ethan’s hand into his own, “We’ll just get the housekeeper to clean every inch of the house and maybe get a new couch.”

“I knew he couldn’t not be an ass.” Mason huffed albeit the sight of the Stydia reunion making his grab Corey’s hand in his.

Andy was able to pull her self up onto the couch and make hesitated steps along the couch as she wobbled and just in the last few days she was walking by her self. In the eight months you had been her parent you had become more confident in your parenting and it became easier. You were adamant that each night you told Andy a story of her biological parents and had a picture hanging on the wall in her nursery.

There was a routine and having Stiles and Lydia over once a week helped maintain stability in your non parenting social group while being parents. You also liked knowing that Andy was the sole reason that Stiles and Lydia were happily back together with an engagement ring on Lydia’s finger now.

“Mama!” Andy called with a large almost toothless grin.

“Come on Andy! Say Stiles!” Stiles groaned from the living room carpet.

“Mama!”

“No! Stiles. Sti…les.” Stiles slowly spoke gently grasping Andy’s hand.

“It’s a lost cause.” Scott chuckled as he set down a plate of food to cool down for Andy, “She calls everyone Mama.”

You awed when Scott bent down to scoop Andy into his arms to blow a raspberry on her cheek. It was a perfect Hallmark moment with Scott snuggling your daughter and Stiles haphazardly stretched out on the ground with a severe case of uncle fever.

“Hey Lydia! Can we have one?” Stiles called out to the kitchen where Lydia was finishing putting a salad together.

“Stiles. I’m not being pregnant during the summer.” Lydia mused thinking of all the pros and cons of it.

“Wait is that a yes?!” Stiles exclaimed tripping over himself.

“Our babies could be best friends or date!” Scott burst excitedly.

“That’s quite a-“

“YOU’RE PREGNANT?!” Lydia gushed dropping the knife you hug you, “Oh my god! That’s why we aren’t having wine!”

“We are. We’re looking at a small house near Melissa’s house.” You admitted resting your hands on your small bump, “We’re thinking of naming the baby after Lucy. Luke for boy and Lucy for a girl.”

“Stiles!” Andy gleefully yelled clapping her hands.

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