#so much so that I may get that 5 buckaroos

[eldrigeonsss]

Just finished reading Fools Gold and now I get to stare at the silly fella who wrote it in a couple hours :3

[danieyells]

Thank you for sharing the tdb affinity lines! I know I won't be naturally getting any of these for ten years (if the games even still around by then) lol.

I was wondering if you could share any interesting lines of Taiga's? No pressure tho! It's just after seeing some of his lines from other people, he seems to have a bigger role in the story and I'm curious if any of his lines give any more clues to the situation on hand. Also would be interesting to see if he genuinely starts caring for mc besides wanting to like. Eat her for lunch lol.

It's no problem! And yeah that's part of why I wanna share them--getting the units to high enough affinity is a pain and to even see any of the home screen dialogues you need an SR or SSR, which means good luck with the gacha buckaroo.

YES TAIGA MY BELOVED. he's my favorite behind maybe Towa. Chances are if you've seen the one line you've seen the only one referring to that, although there is one more that may be related? But it might be general. As for caring for the PC, this is a joseimuke so. The characters will always love you more and more with time. And Taiga most certainly does haha doesn't prevent the hunger from rising up though. friendly reminder to feed your Taiga!

Hello: (the first time the game is opened after that character is set as home screen NPC. Only happens once per day, unless the character is switched out and back.)

"...Who're you? Don't pop up out of nowhere like that.  Wouldn't want me to shoot you by mistake, would you?"

You've Got Mail: (whenever there's something in the inbox, usually Arena rewards)

"Huh? You got a letter. If it's for me just reply for me, yeah?"

Default: (requires no affinity, has no time constraints)

"What are you again? A middle school student? A transfer student? Got it, an honor student! Gyahaha! I'm never gonna remember that!"

"Heads or tails, even or odd, on or off... It's all so fucking tedious!"

"Playing with these morons is exhausting... Lulu gets all mad if I win too much..."

"Don't talk to me. I feel like shit."

"That smells amazing... Shit, where's it coming from?"

please feed your taiga.

Affinity 1: (between 5am and 11am)

"It's too early for your bleating. Shut your trap unless you wanna get abducted."

once again, welcome to sinostra's house of human trafficking--

Affinity 2: (between 11am and 4pm)

"That dealer sucks. He's been here the longest? Why should I give a shit? Fire him."

what the fuck is tenure?

Affinity 3: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"You wanna know what kinda meat this is? Anomaly meat. What else would it be? ...Who the fuck're you again?"

he recognizes you enough to ask 'again'! progress! also I guess he almost exclusively eats anomaly meat.

Affinity 4: (between 8pm and 5am)

"Oops. I lost all the money Lulu gave me. Better make a run for it before he notices."

Affinity 5: (between 8pm and 5am)

"I'm bored... Hey, you over there. Come play five finger filet with me. Gimme your left hand."

five finger fillet, also called the knife game, is when you put your hand on a table and stab the gaps between your fingers with a knife in a sequence! Of course, you can also play it with someone else's hand, as Taiga is suggesting. Obviously stabbing the hand being played with means you lose. Taiga's chibi plays it when he's idle!

Affinity 6: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"They nabbed one of ours? You guys aren't toddlers. Deal with it yourselves."

it's fascinating that there's such a faction divide within Sinostra that members of Taiga's side get abducted by Romeo's, and probably vice versa. And I bet Taiga doesn't care about any of this. Or at the very least it's not that serious to him.

Affinity 7: (between 11am and 4pm)

"Gambling and shoot-outs are pretty much the same thing. Morons who panic mess up and get dead. Gyahaha!"

Affinity 8: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"None of you morons have any flair for the table. Lulu needs to raise the minimum bet already."

isn't it your casino too. . .or even specifically it's in your name. . .can't you raise the minimum bet too. . . .

Affinity 9: (between 8pm and 5am)

"You're a real smooth talker, huh? Don't remember anything you said though. Ciao!"

your seduction attempt didn't fail because of a bad roll, it failed because taiga failed a perception check lmao. . . .

Affinity 10: (between 10pm and midnight)

"Can't sleep? Sit over there. I'll deal the cards."

He'll play with you until you fall asleep. . .or maybe he'll sit around making ASMR card shuffling noises until you doze off.

Affinity 11: (between 5am and 11am)

"...I'm not gonna play today. I'm sleeping. I don't care if the place is burning down— don't wake me up."

fun fact, he's making this face when he says this lol

Affinity 12: (between 11am and 4pm)

"What's that guy's name again? You know, the one who's gonna become a judge or a cop or something. ...Whatever, I'll just forget it again."

at least he was interested in knowing for a second! maybe he'll give him a nickname.

Affinity 13: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"I spy, with my little eye, a tasty-looking kitty-cat.... Come over here so I can pat you. ...Nah, changed my mind. Scram."

maybe it's just my interpretation but I like to think he's hungry and he saw you and he mindlessly tried to lure you closer because he wanted to eat you, then came to his senses and told you to go away so he wouldn't do something stupid like trying to eat a human. . . .

Affinity 14: (between 5am and 11am)

"I'm starving... You, get my usual. It's breakfast time."

i wonder what his usual is. what's a good breakfast anomaly? Dagravnen? Latte? Pompillar to keep the doctor away?

Affinity 15: (between 5am and 11am)

"How does Lulu always have so much energy this early in the morning? It it 'cause of all that expensive water he drinks?"

Affinity 16: (between 11am and 4pm)

"Stop talking. I don't care."

Affinity 17: (between 10pm and midnight)

"You going to bed already? Aren't you a good little kitty-cat. Whatever, do what you want."

he'd rather you stay up with him but he's not attached enough to try and make you stay up. . .yet.

Affinity 18: (between 8pm and 5am)

"You want a surefire way to win at the table? Doesn't exist. You just gotta keep playing."

Affinity 19: (between 10pm and midnight)

"Hey, go warm up my bed for me. What do you mean how? Get in there, dumbass."

either you're gonna get fucked or you're gonna get disappointed when he really just wanted a warm spot that smells nice to lie in and he makes you leave after he gets in bed. Or maybe he'll let you sleep in the bed with him and use you as a little body pillow!

I'd also like to add that he's using the "adult" expression so uh. leaning more towards you're gonna get fucked here.

Affinity 20: (between 5am and 11am)

"Where you going, kitty-cat? Class? You don't need to go there. I got something more fun in mind for us."

the expression used here is once again simply labelled "adult" so. . . . No going to class and no going to sleep.

Affinity 21: (between 11am and 4pm)

"That's it, kitty-cat. I feel like my luck'll change if you're around."

Affinity 22: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"I'm starving... This isn't enough... I want more... More..."

they've gotta stop letting him go so long without eating because he clearly loses his mind if he doesn't eat enough meat.

Affinity 23: (between 8pm and 5am)

"I'm the only one who sees how fucked we are. But he won't believe me. So just let it all burn down—I don't give a shit anymore."

if Taiga sees the future or knows the future because of timeline/loop shit, then that Taiga doesn't seem to actively care much about being Captain or doing his job makes sense. He knows that if nothing changes everything's going to fall apart anyway so there's no point in trying. We don't really know what his stigma does either--in fact, his "good luck" could be that he can see and react to future events, so he knows things like what cards will be drawn and such. But he's getting tired of everything always going so bad no mater what he does in response to what he sees. And Romeo(? it doesn't say who he's telling about how bad things are getting) isn't helping to make changes. . .so he's just giving up. But now you're here, maybe you're different somehow. Maybe somehow you're an outlier in this timeline. Maybe injuring you was on purpose to change something in the future he saw. Maybe that's why he's telling you about the spy. . . .of course this is all speculation. Until we learn what his stigma does or what he means by 'ditch this future' then. . .all speculation. But there is a wickhive post that someone can see the future. And the more I think about it the more I wonder if it's Taiga. (also because i'm sure someone will point this out, the wording 'let it all burn down' is specific to the English dialogue, so it's not a callback to the pre-prequel sequence where the school is on fire.)

Affinity 24: (between 10pm and midnight)

"If you don't like pain then quit flailing around. I'm getting a taste of you, so close your eyes and shut up."

welcome back to the torture chair! You're probably getting cut like a piece of good meat before he just sinks his teeth into you! Your hands and legs are bound and he's not going to let you get away without eating at least a little of your flesh, so suck it up. That or scream and hope somebody comes to rescue you. . .but the desire to eat the pc never goes away. Most likely because he just wants to eat fresh meat in general and the more he likes someone and the more they hang around him the more he wants to eat them. . .although I assume he unlearned it and now you're here and he just can't help himself. . .if they did consume demons to become ghouls, I bet you're the only thing short of maybe Romeo that'll taste anywhere near as good as that demon did.

Affinity 25(max): (no time constraints)

"You're not getting away from me, kitten. You're here till death do us part, whether you like it or not."

oh and also you're married. y'know in case you wanted to do that. or even if you didn't. you don't have a choice in the matter.

Spring: (March-May) (between 5am and 11am)

"(Yawn) Man, why am I so tired today... Someone spike my food?"

'hey did someone drug the anomaly they brought me to eat so that i would get sleepy if i ate it' baby the weather's just getting warm you're sleepy because spring is cozy

(between 11am and 4pm)

"What? Cherry blossoms? Is it that time of year already? Man, that snuck up on me."

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"Fuck it, I'm taking a nap. Come over here and be my pillow."

(between 8pm and 5am)

"What's with that vacant look on your face? You need more excitement in your life? Come over here, I'll play with you."

Summer: (June-August) (between 5am and 11am)

"Too hot... Hey, I want my breakfast on ice. They got tons of it over on Jin's turf, go nab some."

hey uh why do you remember Jin by name. like i know Jin's short enough of a name to not need a nickname but also you remember not only Jin but where he lives and how cold it is? Then again you started in the same year, maybe Taiga remembers all the third years since he's known them for two years?

(between 11am and 4pm)

"Why don't we make a giant pool in Sinostra? It's so hot here. I'll put up the cash... Wait no, I used it all yesterday."

YOU COULD HAVE A NICE POOL IF YOU WERE MORE RESPONSIBLE WITH YOUR MONEY.

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"Quiz time—where's Lulu going all dolled up on a stinking hot day like this? Answer— he's cheating on me! Gyahaha!"

THEY ARE FEEDING MY SHIP WHAT DO YOU MEAN TAIGA JOKES THAT THEY'RE DATING. they have such awful married couple who hate each other but also love each other energy.

(between 8pm and 5am)

"Shower? I don't wanna... Shut up and strip me already then."

man he has no fucks to give that you'd be taking his clothes off and seeing him naked huh. . . .

Autumn: (September-November) (between 5am and 11am)

"Good weather for sports? You get a lot more exercise fighting to the death. Gyahaha!"

how frequently do you think he fights to the death. . .probably a lot less than he used to. poor baby needs his deadly enrichment. Also the fact that he finds the idea of fighting to the death fun explains why he smiles when he takes damage in combat lol

(between 11am and 4pm)

"That looks tasty. Gimme a bite."

so given one of the most common autumn foods in japan is like sweet potatoes(and also the pc probably doesn't eat raw anomaly meat) I assume this means he does eat normal food, just prefers to eat raw meat especially from anomalies? Either way, i am once again remind you to feed your Taiga.

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"We're going out. I've been eating more lately and these guys are too slow. Gonna go stock up."

you've been eating more lately? because it's autumn? what are you, a bear about to go into hibernation?? also he's taking you grocery shopping i guess. or anomaly hunting. . . .

(between 8pm and 5am)

"Watch your back. Way easier to jump people when it gets dark so early. Gyahaha!"

i'd like to think he stuck his gun under your chin and snuck up behind you from in the dark here lol

Winter: (December-February) (between 5am and 11am)

"You trying to pull my covers off? Wanna die?"

my boy does NOT like being cold. Or getting up in the morning. So winter mornings? just leave him in bed.

(between 11am and 4pm)

"I wanna go nab some food from Harry's place, but it's too cold for that shit..."

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"Oh, I got an idea. I just gotta use someone as a punching bag to warm up. Hey you guys, stand over there."

Taiga beating the shit out of his own men because the exercise will keep him warm. . .why do people side with you again?

(between 8pm and 5am)

"I don't like the cold... Come on, come be my hot water bottle! Let me cuddle up to you!"

Getting all tangled up with Taiga under his blankets while he shivers because Sinostra is in a desert and deserts in the winter can be FUCKING COLD especially at night. It gets cold and he's just the whiniest little meow-meow. Until he gets hungry.

His birthday: (October 16th)

"Huh? Whose birthday? Mine? Gyahaha! Totally forgot about it! Grazie!"

it's okay Taiga, I forget my birthday too most of the time.

Your birthday:

"Is it your birthday today? That little twerp told me. Okay, you can take one thing from my room."

Ritsu fuckin doxed you? is that legal? Doesn't Taiga's room have like a pile of coins in it. . .is one coin 'one thing' or is 'the pile of coins' one thing. . .then again the background is AI generated so. not really sensible and doesn't say much about him sadly. considering taiga's described as spending his money wastefully I assume he buys a lot of random things he doesn't need or use--then again he probably spends most of it on gambling. But considering he's offering you anything out of his room, I assume there's a lot of nice stuff in there.

New Years: (January 1st)

"You gonna go skipping off to a shrine together just to get your fortune told? That's dumb. Here, let me guess what it'll say—you'll have an okay year."

the fact that he guesses your fortune is a tiny piece on the 'taiga can see the future' evidence pile but it's a piece nonetheless

Valentine's Day: (February 14th)

"Is that for me? Sure I'll take it, but it better be edible."

i was gonna say 'has he never gotten valentine's day chocolates before?' but i remembered that he probably doesn't really remember if he has so. this is probably his general reaction to gifts lol 'is it money and if not can i eat it'

White Day: (March 14th)

"What's that expectant look on your face? Lulu was harping on about mimosas or something before. That what you want?"

of course he doesn't know what white day is lol but he does remember that Romeo had something tasty!

April Fool's Day: (April 1st)

"I'm gonna die soon, you know? And I'm taking Lulu with me. ...Gotcha! Gyahaha!"

wait you didn't remember white day but you remembered april fool's day? maybe someone tried to prank him first lol remember guys, suicide is not an appropriate april fool's prank!

Halloween: (October 31st)

"Trick or treat. Where you gonna put your chips, kitty-cat?"

I think if you're trick or treating then they're supposed to decide if you get the trick or the treat. . .but it seems more like Taiga to give you something that could be a trick or a treat lolol russian roulette is a totally acceptable halloween party game right? of course!

Christmas: (December 25th)

"Come on Santa kitty, tie a ribbon 'round yourself and get over here. Gyahaha!"

at least he knows what gift he wants! unfortunately you don't know what for but based on his expression you may not get eaten. . .depending on your definition--

Idle: (about 20 seconds without interacting with the game) (below 13 affinity)

"...This is boring. I'm outta here."

(13 affinity and above)

"Are you done yet? I'm hungry over here."

Absent: (logging in for the first time in 2 or more days?)

"Long time no see! You decide to ditch this future too? Sorry I'm not dead yet."

AND HERE"S THE LINE THAT'S CAUSING SO MUCH SPECULATION. . .what does that even mean Taiga. . .what do you know, what have you seen. . .and can we fix this future instead of leaving it to rot--

UH. YEAH. I THINK I'VE SAID ENOUGH HAHA. . .everything Taiga says is so. . . ./gestures weakly) IT REALLY DOES SEEM LIKE MORE IS HAPPENING THAN YOU REALIZE RIGHT??? The game's still so early on we probably won't learn for a very long time lol. . . . But, yeah. Taiga definitely loves you--and lusts after you. As his affinity goes up, he asks "who are you" a lot less, did you notice? He starts to remember and just say "kitty cat" and "kitten", because that's who you are and he can remember that. So far the only people he remembers are Romeo, Hyde, and Jin it seems. And you.

[cactusspatz]

February recs

All 9-1-1 this month (except for a handful of others over at Pinboard)! A mix of gen and Buck/Eddie sorted from shortest to longest, because why not.

Solid Ground by @kingreywrites (gen)

"Hey Buckaroo," she says conversationally, as if any of this is a common occurrence. "I'm glad to see you awake, but please, whatever you do, don't move, okay?" (Or, Hen is here to catch Buck when he falls. Literally.)

Tightly written rope rescue, with a warm Hen-Buck relationship and Hen being a badass.

flutter in the dovecote by KiaraSayre (gen + Buck/Eddie)

Buck, Eddie, and Bobby quarantine from a bird flu exposure, and everything's fine. Totally fine. They're handling it just fine.

This felt SOOOO MUCH like an actual (bottle) episode and now I dearly wish it was.

things you don't say reach me somehow anyway by @sibylsleaves (Buck/Eddie)

He writes CHRISTOPHER at the top of the page in capital letters. Underneath it goes BUCK. Then PEPA, CARLA, CHIM, HEN and so on until he has fifteen names listed out. Fifteen people to show his appreciation for. He starts with the easiest name first. or, Eddie tells the family he chose how much they mean to him. All of them except one.

So sweet and affecting, with plenty of bonus Fire Fam feels while Eddie's therapy homework leads him to figure out the true shape of Buck in his life.

Winter Prayer by @cal-daisies-and-briars (gen)

When a work conflict prevents Athena from accompanying Bobby to Minnesota for the ten year anniversary of his family dying, Buck and May offer to go instead. Over the course of the trip, they all learn more about each other, and Bobby faces his grief.

Quiet and occasionally devastating, with a truckload of soft found family dynamics along for the roadtrip.

piece by piece, you filled the holes that were burned in me by polish_amber / @the-amber-raven (gen)

Buck didn’t see Hen and Chimney exchanging knowing smirks and he was still muffling his groans against the table when they went over to the kitchen to refill their coffee mugs and had a hushed conversation: “Should we tell him that Bobby also asks for feedback?” “Nah,” Hen replied mischievously. “I kind of want to hear what he’ll come up with on the spot.” 5 times Bobby has feedback for Buck during his annual review, and the one time Buck gets a perfect score and has some feedback of his own.

Such a fun use of that bit of canon, and great snapshots of their changing dynamic across the years.

I'll Scrawl it on Every Wall I See by @letmetellyouaboutmyfeels (Buck/Eddie)

When Eddie joins the 118, he and Buck don't exactly hit it off on the right foot. Or continue to walk on the right foot. In fact they kind of can't stand each other. Good thing they each have a beloved anonymous pen pal to share their daily woes with, someone completely unlike their insufferable coworker. Or, in which Buck and Eddie love each other before they know each other, and know each other before they love each other.

Delightful epistolary identity porn! Very very classic set up but the execution is *chefkiss* perfect.

Evan Buckley & The Coma-Verse of Madness by @cal-daisies-and-briars (Buck/Eddie)

After being struck by lightning on a call, Buck experiences a plethora of alternate realities showing him different directions his life could have taken. Fighting hard to get home, Buck learns what, or who, is important to him in every lifetime.

Great varation on 6x11 (the coma-dream episode), with gorgeous characterization. Emotionally devastating at times, but also devastatingly romantic.

[fvirytips]

how to stop swearing!

(and not sound "weird")

ah swearing. we love that shi- whoops.

I have had a swearing addiction. every 5 seconds, I'd start exploding into shouting swear words at the smallest inconvenience. but then I realised. why on earth am I swearing so much? and what would Jesus say if He saw me right now??

oh wait. He is looking at me right now..

(50 million prayers and repentance later)

I cracked it! I figured out how to stop swearing!

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. (Ephesians 4:29)

Things to say instead of shit

shite: great if your Irish, may still count as swearing so use with caution!

shoot: normal, regular alternative. shouldn't get any weird looks.

sugar: I say this a lot and nobody takes notice so use as you please!

any food item: oh pickle, oh crisps, oh fish fingers with mayonnaise! who cares? although people may stare when you say "oh cheese and onion walkers crisps" 😭

my days: easy, simple. love it!

ship: sneaky, sly, however easy to slip up on soo-

Things to say instead of fuck

frick: yk, I really hate this caus3 it makes me sound like an angry 4 year old but whatever its normal..

cluck: just like ship, kinda discreet if you know what I mean?

fu-: for those times you forget you live for God, not the world!

flip: Same as frick but whatever

scallop: erm.. what the scallop.. ^_^

Things to say instead of bitch

biatch: on the fence, may still be swearing so use with caution once again! but makes me sound like a cool 2010 girl so yeah 😭

idiot: still mean but it's better than cussing people out.

ahole- yes ik it's swearing but it's a way to slowly phase out your vulgar language

britch: yes it's a word. idk what it means... but who cares.

any food item: it's cool and quirky (IM NOT A PICK ME I SWEARR)

but at the end of the day. don't swear. it's rude and can hurt people. infact don't insult people, period. instead use kind words! and if someone's really making you angry, just take deep breaths and re-evaluate the sutuation. if you really hate them then just say : "You're on thin ice buckaroo 🥶😡😤" or "this is the last straw pal.. 😒🤠🤓"

Dear God, help me to use pure language, to represent your Holy Kingdom forever. Thank you for understanding my anger, and for helping me become patient and kinder to my friends, and enemies. Help Mr tk remember how Jesus acted, and to follow His ways to join you in Heaven and to spread Your Glory from Asia, to Europe, Africa to America.

Amen

[revolutionbuildersllcor]

Top 5 Things To Do In Medford, Oregon

Medford, Oregon is a city that lives up to the old-fashioned American ideals of community and history. The city may not be well known outside the Pacific Northwest region, but it's a fun place to visit because it has so much to offer. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or simply want to explore some local history, Medford has plenty of options for all kinds of travelers. Here are five things that we recommend checking out when visiting this quaint Oregon town:

Medford

Medford is a city in Southern Oregon, located in the Rogue Valley. It's the county seat of Jackson County, and was founded in 1883 by David Loring, a civil engineer who named the city after his friend Dr. Joseph Medford from Boston.

Medford is home to several colleges and universities including:

Southern Oregon University (SOU) - A public liberal arts college established in 1856; one of only two four-year universities within an hour drive from Medfords' downtown area

Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) - A community college offering associate degrees as well as certificate programs

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is a national park located in southern Oregon, United States. The park was established in 1902 and covers 1,950 square miles (4,932 km2). It is the deepest lake in the United States with a maximum depth of 1,949 feet (587 m), making it also one of the top ten deepest lakes worldwide.

The park's name derives from its location on what was once called "the buried volcano" due to an eruption that occurred approximately 20 million years ago; however, no signs of this have been found within its borders today. Though most people associate Crater Lake with waterfalls cascading down into its depths or an active caldera lake surrounded by pinnacles and cliffs, there is much more to see here than meets eye!

Stewart Ave

The Avenue is a long street that runs through Medford, and it's home to many of the city's oldest buildings. It's also known as Stewart Ave, named after George Stewart who settled here in 1855. While you're on The Avenue (or Stewart Ave), you can walk around and shop at some of the great stores or eat at one of its many restaurants.

Rogue Creamery

Rogue Creamery is a dairy farm, creamery, and cheese factory in Central Point, Oregon. The company was founded by David Gremmels and Marjorie McGinnis in 1973. Rogue Creamery produces several varieties of award-winning artisan cheeses including:

Buckaroo Blue - A creamy blue cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk

Oregeno Honeymoon - A semi-soft Italian-style cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk (also available as part of our Gift Boxes)

Camembert de Normandie - An unpasteurized French style Camembert made with raw milk

If you're planning a visit to Medford, be sure to check out these places.

If you're planning a visit to Medford, be sure to check out these places.

The Crater Lake National Park is about 2 hours away from Medford and well worth the drive. You can hike along the rim of this beautiful blue lake or take an easier walk around it. There are also tours available that include boat rides across the lake and stops at viewpoints where you can get amazing views of its waters below.

If hiking isn't your thing, then try kayaking instead! There are several locations around town where you can rent boats or even take lessons if you're inexperienced with paddling through water (and trust me--it's harder than it looks). A few places where I recommend going: Ashland Paddle Sports & River Runners Adventures; Rogue River Rafting Company; Rogue Wilderness Outfitters; Oregon Whitewater Adventures

We hope that this list has given you a little inspiration for your next trip to Medford. This city has so much to offer and we are happy to share our top 5 picks with you!

Revolution Builders is a Revolution. We're not just your average Medford builders. We are committed to building homes that bring out the best in every person who enters our doors, making sure that you find the perfect home and leave feeling confident with our experience. We know that when buying a new home, it’s all about you. That’s why we do everything we can for our clients before, during and after construction. We build relationships for life through genuine care and dependability.

Revolution Builders, LLC 3619 Aviation Way, Medford, OR 97504 541-210-3205 https://revolution-builders.com/ https://www.google.com/maps?cid=1050003253826938032

[greenand-blue]

Cold Ocean things because I hit my head really hard on the playground while playing with my kid yesterday and I remembered I’d written this AU 🙃 @anxiousworm and I talked a lot about this so lots of love and credit to them.

1. It takes a while for Martin to recover. Through concussions and blood loss and essentially drowning he’s down for the count for a while. The perfect time for the lighthouse keeper to train him on the lighthouse and twist a story to keep him there so he could go to the mainland to get drunk and die in peace.

2. Two out of four villains are surprisingly sympathetic. Donita and Zach back off for a while, staying quiet and not kidnapping animals. Paisley sees this as an opportunity to ruin the team, but she’s quickly dropkicked into the ocean stopped. Gourmand just straight up doesn’t give a fuck. Who cares.

3. Just as Chris is starting to accept that his brother is dead, and the body likely won’t ever be recovered, a voice comes through the radio; “Tortuga, you’re headed directly into a massive storm. You’ll want to come in until it passes.”

“Who is this?!”

“Mark Kent. I work at the lighthouse.”

4. It causes the uproar that you’d expect.

“It has to be Martin!”

“Chris, he’s dead.”

“I’d know his voice anywhere! Who else would know the frequency the Tortuga’s radios operate at?! Not some random lighthouse keeper!”

5. Martin says things that are *close* but not right. The crew asks how they knew their ship was named the Tortuga. He answers that it’s a big turtle and turtle in Spanish is Tortuga.

6. Chris asks if the name liturgusa krattorum means anything to him. “Oh, yeah, it’s a species of praying mantis. Really cool creature, I’d love to meet the guy it was named after.” After a while, Chris is close to banging his head against the wall out of sheer frustration.

7. The next morning, as the crew is surveying any damage that may have been done to the Tortuga, a scar on Chris’s upper lip catches Martin’s eye and almost everything floods back.

“How did you get that scar?”

“Oh, it’s from a-“

“Fishing hook. You were four. It fell off a table and you needed three stitches. You didn’t go near a hook or pole for year afterwards.”

“How do you know that…?”

“I… I remember now. I didn’t realize I’d forgotten so much.”

8. It comes out a little while later that the lighthouse keeper had, in fact, gone to the mainland to die. Luckily, his son was already en route to take over the lighthouse, blissfully unaware of the fact that his father had enlisted the help of an injured amnesiac to do it. The son talks highly of his father, so they omit that detail out of respect.

9. As Martin’s memory comes back, some things never do. The adventure they had with the other Martens? Gone. Little deer buckaroo? Nothing. The blue herons? Nope. It’s insanely frustrating, but it turns into a joke eventually;

“Hey, do you remember-“

“Probably not.”

[soldierswar]

Kobik - Chapter I

Bucky x Reader

(Fluff, Angst)

Plot: You and Bucky's relationship is anything but ordinary. Something that you've been used to since day one. But one day when Bucky brings home an unexpected little guest with superpowers, you reluctantly find yourself thrusted into something close to parenthood much sooner than you had ever expected to be.

Notes: I've been obsessed with Kobik and Bucky's father/daughter relationship with her since I read the Thunderbolts comics. Enjoy protective dad!Bucky.

        *Ring* *Ring* *Ring*

           “I’ve got to change that ring tone,” was your first thought after your atrociously loud phone woke you up in the middle of your mid-day nap. But you always felt the need to keep it off silent when Bucky was away from you for emergency use.

           You groggily propped yourself up and picked up the phone.

           “Everything okay?”

           “Let me guess. You just woke up?”

           There were no signs of real distress in his voice. So why the hell was he calling instead of texting?

           “Mmmmm,” you groaned.

           You being an investigative journalist had just finished working on an important writing piece that took over a month and a half to write. A piece that involved multiple trips across the ocean for in-person research. So you were pretty exhausted nowadays.

           “What’s up?” you asked mid-yawn.

           “Y/N…I need you to meet me somewhere as soon as possible. At…our spot.”

           Now you began to get worried.

You and Bucky had a special secluded spot in a nearby building that had been abandoned halfway through its being built years ago. It was safe to assume that it was just another private abandoned project after the blip that was never followed up on. So you and Bucky deemed it your secret place to go to if you needed to talk about something urgent where nobody could hear or see you.

           “Are you in some kind of trouble? Do we need a lawy—”

           “No, Y/N. It doesn’t have anything to do about me…for the most part.”

           “For the most part?”

           You could suddenly hear Sam’s voice echoing in the background again.

           “How worried do I need to be, Barnes?”  

           He hesitated.

Those pauses always made you incredibly anxious, and he knew that.

           “Are you safe? Are we safe?”  

           Another pause as he swallowed nervously.

           “James?”

           “I wouldn’t have called for you to come if I didn’t think that we’d be safe.”

           You shook your head. And although he couldn’t see it, he knew you enough to know that that was exactly what you were doing.

           “You trust me?”

           “Would I have married you if I didn’t?” you sighed lightheartedly.

           “I can be there in 30, okay?”

           And before you could hang up he said those three words that almost never faltered in making you smile, even in the worst of time.

           “I love you.”

…

           Despite the fact that he said that there was nothing really to be truly worried about, you couldn’t help but feel a pulsing anxiety surge through your body. In the years that you had been together, you never really had to use your spot for any type of unexpected emergency.

           You stumbled your way to the building being careful to not fall over the chunks of broken concrete protruding from the dirt before making your way to the door that was almost completely broken off minus two feet of it from the bottom still hinged to the door frame.

           “Hey,” said a familiar voice.

You turned around to see your husband’s beautiful face. You hadn’t seen Bucky in almost a week, so when he wrapped you in his arms you had no choice but to feel nothing but comfort and warmth. But after a two-second tender moment, you snapped out of it.

           “James,” you said.

“What is this about? Why am I here?”

           Before he could say anything, you could hear  Sam’s voice in another area of the house. It sounded almost as though he were giving orders to someone. Which was then followed by the echoes of a little childlike voice…

           You shook your head and reasoned that you were either hearing things, or things were about to get really weird.

           “Bucky,” you said raising your voice and crossing your arms.

           “How bad can it be?”

           Suddenly the only sound in the house was the sound of little footsteps sprinting towards you followed by Sam’s voice.

           “Kobi—”

           And right before your eyes, there was a little girl. A little girl that couldn’t have been older than 4 or 5 years old. She was incredibly pale and had blonde – No, white hair in two high pigtails. But the strangest thing about her was her inhumanly glowing blue eyes.

           “Everything okay Buckaroo?” she asked seeming concerned about him.

           “Shit,” Sam said under his breath as Bucky gave him a death stare.

           “Kobik,” Bucky scolded lightly, crossing his arms.

           “I told you not to come out until I said –”

           “I know,” she said as her little face and shoulders fell.

           “But someone seemed mad at you. Are you okay?”

           She turned her gaze over to you and gave you a once-over as if she were scanning you to see if you were a stranger and potential threat to your own husband.

           Sam finally joined you guys looking somewhat embarrassed.

           “Sorry, I couldn’t stop her.”  

           Now you were staring at Sam giving him the “What the hell is going on?” look.

           He didn’t seem like he wanted to be the one to answer.

Great, now you had two men who didn’t want to answer any questions about the strangest looking child that you had ever seen.  

           “Kobik,” Bucky said.

           “This is my wife, Y/N.”

           Her intense stare immediately softened, which eventually evolved into a big smile, and waved at you.

           “Hi!”

           You were awestruck, and couldn’t even answer. You just turned your stunned gaze away from her and back on to Bucky.

           “Bucky…” you said under your breath.

“I’m gonna ask you again. Why am I here?”

…

           Bucky took you outside next to a pile of large concrete rocks to sit on which you were grateful for because you were feeling pretty dizzy, and even felt a little sick.

Who was she? Did he have a kid that he decided to never tell you about? Did he feel the need to take her for some reason? Those were all logical thoughts that any rational human could think up for this type of situation. Right? And also, why did the poor thing look like…the way that she did?

           But when you finally did get Bucky to talk, everything came out of his mouth exceeded anything that you could ever imagine. In fact, for a moment of time if felt as though you were watching Bucky say a bunch of nonsensical sentences pre-exploding brain aneurism.

           But the longer he continued to speak, you realized that he was serious. This wasn’t some type of psychiatric meltdown or a sick joke.

           You shook your head as he reached over to put a comforting hand on your upper arm.

           “I know it sounds crazy, Y/N but—”

           “Crazy? No,” you shuddered, pulling away.

           “Crazy would be telling me that, I don’t know, you had some kind of accident child with someone during our marriage and you’re just bringing her over to tell me for the first time.”

           He opened his mouth to say something but you shoved your index finger in his face to continue.

           “Crazy would be telling me that you found a literal child with superpowers and you just decided to take her to see what she’ll do. But you’re meaning to tell me that it’s not even a human?”

           “Y/N—”

“You’re meaning to tell me,” you said pointing to the door.

           “That I’m supposed to believe that some extremely powerful force of ‘cosmic energy’ formed itself into a little girl, and you decided to make the impulsive decision of just taking it with you?”  

           “It’s not like that, Y/N,” he replied.

           “I’ve known about her for a little over a year now.”

           You couldn’t lie, that shocked you a little bit.

           “A year?”

           “Listen,” he said.

           “A year and a half ago were investigating a situation in Norway. One thing led to another and we ended up in an underground science lab with two scientists observing some type of glowing anomaly in the shape of a cube that they were carefully monitoring and studying. Sam and I made it our responsibility to keep this hidden and make sure it stays hidden.”  

           “So what does this have to do with—”

           He stopped you from finishing your sentence.

           “Two months later they call us to fly over and it seems that overnight this glowing anomaly somehow formed itself into this little girl that calls herself Kobik.”

           If you didn’t trust him as much as you did, you would be calling bullshit at this point. You didn’t even know that these kinds of things were humanly possible. Granted, you also didn’t think it humanly possible for a bunch of aliens to pretty much destroy New York, or for another batch of aliens to come down and somehow make half of the earth’s—No, the universe’s population disappear. So you continued to listen.

           “A few days ago we get a notice that the lab’s been breached, and by the time we got there, the two scientists are dead. When we get there to check out the scene we find that the five grown men that broke in were also dead. And a minute later we found Kobik shaking all alone in a corner.”  

           Your heart broke for her for a split second. But then you let his words sink in before realizing...

           “Wait,” you said

           “You said the intruders were dead.”

           He nodded.

           “Who killed…”

           He knew that you knew that answer.

           “She had to defend herself,” he shrugged.

           “And how did she do that, Bucky? She’s tiny.”

           And that’s when you realized that there was even more to the story.

           “Once she took form, they made it their focus to study the extent of her powers along with her behaviors. She talks, plays, and overall acts like a child of the age that she took form in…But in the wrong hands she could be used and abused into being a powerful weapon.”

           “So why did you take it?” You asked.

“It obviously can defend itself.”

           He didn’t seem thrilled about you talking about it like it was an inanimate object.

           “We don’t know if it was a fluke or not. She may not know how to properly defend herself and won’t get so lucky the next time. Next thing you know she could end up in the wrong hands. And she was scared, Y/N. I…We couldn’t just leave her.”

           You stressfully ran your fingers against your scalp through your hair.  

           “So what now?” you asked.

“She’s going to just stay here? In this abandoned half build house?”  

“No.”  

“…So is Sam going to keep her somewhere?”

The longer he stared at you the dizzier you started getting, understanding what he was actually asking.

“Y/N,” he said softly.

“I’m the only one she trusts.”

His last words fell into the background as you suddenly leaned over and threw up the entirety of your lunch…maybe even breakfast.

He held your hair back until you finally stopped.

“Bucky, you’re not saying,” you croaked while wiping your mouth.

“Tell me you’re not saying that you want to take her in.”

“Y/N, she’s scared. And I’m the only one she trusts to be around.”

You shot up and involuntarily started shaking your head.

No. This was not happening. He was not bringing a lethal science experiment into our house.

The world began to spin again as you probably got up too quickly, but you were good at playing it off. Why couldn’t he just be normal and bring an abandoned puppy home or something?

Regardless, there was no way that this could happen. There was no way that you could let this happen. You didn’t know who was going to invade your house to try to come to collect it. Much worse, you didn’t know how dangerous this thing was. What it could do to either of you when you least expected. What if it…she got startled in the middle of the night and activated some type of lasers in her eyes and cut you in half?

So you said what you needed to say.  

“No.”    

“Y/N,” he replied sympathetically.

“I know that this may be a lot so suddenly but—”

“No!” you said again putting your foot down.

“We can’t…Not right now. It’s not a good time”

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?”

Damn it.

“This isn’t some abandoned puppy that you found across the road, James! You brought home this radioactive weapon that people, might I add, bad people are looking for. And they’re not even the ones that I’m scared of!”

“You’re not making any sense.”

“After all that just came out of your mouth in the past 15 minutes, you really just had the nerve to tell me that I’m the one that’s not making any sense?” you exclaimed.

“What doesn’t make any sense is that your excuse is that this isn’t the right time. What do you mean by it’s not the right time, Y/N?”

“We…I have a lot of serious shit going on right now, okay?”

“I thought you were taking time off of work,” he pointed out.

“I am, okay? It’s just…”  

You paused, you didn’t know what to say or even how to say it.

“Is there something that I need to know? What does timing have to do with anything?”

“I…well…” you stuttered.

“Spit it out, Y/N.”

You sighed in defeat. You didn’t have a choice now.

“Because damnit, Bucky!” you shouted, startling yourself by how loud you were. But there was no stopping now.

“I’m pregnant.”

[lizamango]

Finding You (Bucky Barnes x Fem! Reader) 1/?

A/N: Hey everyone, this is set right at the start of Captain America: The Winter Soldier and is essentially a reader insert rewrite 🥰

This fic is in progress as we go so updates may be slower

Summary: You’ve been one of SHIELD’s top spies for years but what happens when the organisation you’ve put your trust in crumbles and Captain America gives you a mission to help him find his best friend? The last thing you expected to happen was to fall in love with your assignment and become best friends with a witch.

Taglist ~ just comment if you wanna be added 

@buckylokisimp​ ~continued from Together again

@white-wolf-buckaroo​​, @austynparksandpizza, @markandlexies​ ~ please lmk if you wanna stay 🥰😁

Word Count: 2137

Masterlist

Warnings: Just curse words, first person pov

Chapter Summary: Renowned Agent L/N gets assigned on a mission with The Captain America

Chapter 1: SHALL WE?

I receive Fury’s call to come in for 6am, way too early for my liking. And short notice. I get out of the bed of some stranger who still sleeps and I look for my clothes that have been thrown around in a flurry. The man – I think his name was Aaron – stirs as I walk into the bathroom to get dressed in last night’s outfit. Natasha and I went out clubbing the night before but she got called away on a mission with Clint so I had decided to go home with some hotshot FBI agent I met there, of course Fury had to ruin a perfectly good start to the weekend.

“Leaving already?” he raises a brow and I detect some disappointment.

“Not by choice,” I retort. “Thanks for the good time.”

“Just good?”

No, it was fucking amazing but I’m not giving a federal agent that kind of satisfaction. “Yeah. Just good.”

He just chuckles, not taking any offense. I always know how to pick the good ones; not overcompensating for what they don’t have, confident in their abilities and no attachment issues. These ones never want to meet up again or grab a coffee and tell me their life stories. And it’s better that way, especially in the line of work I’m in.

“Do you want me to call you a cab?”

“No, I’ve got a ride. Thanks, Aaron.”

I leave the hotel room and send a message to the lower-level agent tasked with getting me to the Triskellion.

“Good Morning, Agent L/N,” he greets and I notice a strong Scottish accent.

I get into the backseat. “What does Fury want?”

“Um, it’s a mission briefing. Then you’ll bring in Ca-Captain Rogers.”

I frown. Steve Rogers? I’ve never worked a mission with him before, why would I now?

“Agent Romanoff was supposed to run point but she had to go to Belarus with Agent Barton.”

“So I’m the second choice.”

“N-no!” the exclaim. “I-“

“I was kidding, Agent. Lighten up. What are you anyway? Level 5?”

“Level 4, actually. Leo Fitz.”

“So you’re really just my driver.”

“Pretty much. I don’t have the clearance pertaining to your mission’s details. Just the basics the Director knew you’d ask about. Have you ever met the Captain?” Fitz asks.

“Once. The first time he woke up, they sent me in to deliver the news. He got really spooked though so he ran through the fake wall of the set we orchestrated. He didn’t like it very much. That was… two years ago,” I recall the event, I don’t get scared but that moment would have been as close as I could get to that feeling if I hadn’t encountered the depths of HYDRA a few years before that.

“I can’t believe you got to meet him. Well, not meet but… it’s Captain America. That is something.”

“Yeah. He’s gorgeous but I don’t get the hype. So what, he’s a good person.”

“And super strong, brave, freed 150 soldiers from the Nazis, sacrificed – or rather, was willing to sacrifice his life for the good of all the cities they were going to bomb back in World War Two. He’s the definition of superhero.”

“Wow, you almost sound like Coulson,” I remark before I stop myself.

“Agent Coulson? The one Loki…”

I stay quiet and Fitz gets the message that he should too. We arrive at the field office and I leave Fitz to go up the elevator to the top floor to see Fury.

Entering, he get straight to the point.

“I’m putting you and Captain Rogers on an assignment together. One of our ships has been hijacked. Rogers will be on rescue and you will be on retrieval.” The screen creates a hologram of the ship.

“And what will I be retrieving?” I ask.

“Intel. Classified. You are not to disclose it to Rogers. It may jeopardise his mission.” He points to an area of the ship. “This is your target.”

“You want me to double cross Captain America?”

“No. I want you to use his mission as a cover and covertly recover SHIELD intel.”

I sigh and take the briefing packet for Captain Rogers.

“You know, I’m taking the Stingray.”

“I know. You think I didn’t see you swipe those keys?”

“I know you didn’t.” I chuckle.

I leave his office and go to the garage, searching for the gorgeous sleek car and smirk when I find it. I unlock the bulletproof glass doors and get in. I hook up my portable communicator to the GPS to locate Captain Rogers.

“Destination: Washington Monument,” the car speaks.

I approach and have the comms send the Captain’s device a message.

I roll up in front of him, illegally parked, yes but who’s gonna fight me?

“Captain Rogers. My name is Agent Y/N L/N, I’ll be your partner for this mission.”

“Nice to meet you.”

“You’re not gonna ask for my ID card or something?” This guy trusts too easily.

“Should I?”

I smirk and my eyes shift to the man next to him. Looks like he can make friends after all.

“Hey,” I say. Yes. I’m a flirt.

“How you doin’?” he replies, putting on his suave face.

“Shall we?” I gesture to the car.

“Damn,” the Captain’s new friend whistles at the Stingray.

I get in and so does Captain Rogers.

“Can’t run everywhere,” he says.

“No you can’t,” his friend says, still admiring the car.

“So what’s the mission?” the Captain asks, turning to me.

I pull out the folder I slotted in the compartment between the seats.

“Hostages on the Lemurian Star, one of ours. Mission is rescue and extraction of personnel.” I choose my words carefully because it’s more his and the STRIKE team’s mission. While mine is to discreetly extract the SHIELD intelligence kept on the ship’s servers onto a secure drive Fury had given to me prior to my meeting with America’s Golden Boy.

He nods with a serious look on his face as he reads over the file for background.

“Pirates?”

“Yep. Hostages aren’t fighters, either. They’re scientists and technicians and only one field officer.”

“Jasper Sitwell,” he fills in as he reads. “What’s he doing on a launch ship?”

“Probably just oversight of operations. Location is off course.”

I drive us to the tarmac where a quinjet awaits and so does the STRIKE team.

We gear up, Rogers changes out of his sweats and into a SHIELD issued special Captain America suit. Still doesn’t feel real that the hero of our history books is standing right in front of me.

“Captain Rogers, this is the STRIKE team,” I introduce. “They’ll be having our backs. This is Agent Brock Rumlow, the unit leader.”

“It’s an honour to meet you, Cap. It’s good to work with you again, Agent L/N. If everyone would look to the screen,” he starts the mission plan. “Target is The Lemurian Star, a mobile satellite launch platform. Pirates intercepted and took personnel hostage demanding a ransom of $1.5 billion. This was 93 minutes ago.”

“Why so steep?” Rogers questions.

“Because it’s SHIELD’s,” Rumlow replies but even I think that’s quite the ask, especially for a launch platform.

“In the Indian Ocean? It’s trespassing, not off course,” Rogers frowns then looks at me.

“I’m sure they had good reason,” I say confidently.

“So you just have blind faith in Fury while he gets us to play janitor.”

“Careful there, Cap,” Rumlow warns. “Don’t be pulling that thread.”

“How many pirates?” I ask, steering the conversation back to the mission details.

“25. Mercs. Georges Batroc’s their leader.” Rumlow gives us a rundown of Batroc’s history and experience as I run my own mission brief in my head.

“I’m sweeping the deck to find Batroc. L/N, kill the engines then await further instruction. Rumlow and STRIKE sweep it for hostages, get them to life-pods then get them out, take down any and all hostiles. Let’s move.”

The jet approaches the target and we check the security of our comms.

“Secure channel seven,” Rogers speaks into his wrist comm.

“Seven secure,” I answer to mine. I look through the armoury and pick up some throwing knives, batons and a pistol. “Do anything fun this weekend, Captain?”

“Considering everyone I know is dead… not really,” he replies as he fits his earpiece.

My eyebrows raise and I smirk. “Who knew Golden Boy had a dark sense of humour?” I ask rhetorically. “Very different attitude to when we first met.”

He frowns as he thinks but before he can say anything else our pilot comes on the radio. “Coming up on the drop zone, Cap.”

He puts on his helmet and the doors slide open letting in the unforgiving cold. He attaches his shield to his back and approaches the end of the ramp.

“You don’t remember do you?” I ask over the loud noise of the engines.

“We’ll talk about that later!” then he jumps out of the plane.

“You’ve met him?” Rumlow asks.

“When he first woke up.” I strap on my parachute and jump out.

I land and fall into step with him as he walks as if he hadn’t just taken down a handful of men in the time it took for us to float down.

“Was it at Stark’s afterparty?” he asks as I unclip the parachute.

I smirk knowingly. “Are you saying I’m not that memorable, Captain?”

“I-“

“Why don’t I secure the engine, I’ll give you two more guesses.” I jump over a railing to get to the engine room more efficiently.

There is a lone pirate guarding the room and he doesn’t notice me as I slide down the banister. He gets an order through the phone and turns to be greeted by me.

“Bonjour marin,” I tease then hit him where it hurts and then I wrap a grappling hook around him and scale down, shooting at any pirates I see on my way. I navigate the room, taking out the hostiles and tying them up with the ropes hanging on the walls. “Engine room secure,” I say into my wrist comm.

I make my way to the main server room. Inserting the USB drive from my pocket I get to work. I use my own log in to access the SHIELD intranet and then pull up the computer’s source code.

“Hostages en route to extraction,” I hear Rumlow announce.

Damn it.

“L/N missed the rendezvous point, Cap,” he says. “Hostiles are still in play.”

“L/N. Batroc’s on the move. Circle back to the STRIKE team and protect the hostages.” I turn my comms to radio silence to concentrate on working faster now that they know I’m missing. Over-riding the current firewalls using the commands that Fury gave me, I was able to access the classified files stored in the ship’s separate intelligence. I wait for all the files to download then Rogers and Batroc come barreling in.

“Well, this is awkward,” I say as Rogers knocks him out. So much for discreet.

He looks up in surprise as if a ghost started talking to him. “Rumlow needed your help,” he says in an accusing tone. “What are you doing?”

“Just backing up the hard drive. Harmless.”

“The hostages are priority and I gave you orders.” He walks towards me and looks at the monitor. “You’re covering for SHIELD?”

“It’s my job.”

“The mission was to get the hostages out safe and extract them.”

“Sorry, Captain. That was your mission.” Once the download was complete, I code a total deletion of intel on the ship. “And you’ve done a great job of it.” I pull out the drive and make my way to the door.

He stops me with a firm grip on my arm. “You just jeopardized this whole operation, Agent.”

“That’s an exaggeration, Captain.”

There is a shuffle behind us and Batroc gets up, throwing a live grenade at us. As quick as a blink, Rogers deflects it with the shield and picks me up as I shoot at the glass window of a control room to break its integrity and we jump in just as the blast detonates.

We shuffle up against the wall, panting. “I admit to that one.”

“You’re damn right,” he says as he stands, making his way to the extraction point in a huff.

I sigh, strangely feeling bad that our first mission literally ended up in flames. Well maybe it’ll be our last.

I get up from the floor and dust myself off.

“Where were you?” Rumlow asks as I approach while the STRIKE team guides the hostages into the life-pods.

“Codeword classified,” I reply which he accepts with no suspicion or distrust. Suppose it has to do with the fact that he has been an agent for so long while Captain Rogers isn’t used this kind of pecking order.

💖

I’ll update as soon as I have the third chapter done! That summary was kinda shitty, I might change it if I think of something better

Hope some Criminal Minds and Agents of Shield fans appreciated the cameos 🥰 thank you for reading!

Chapter 2

Support a broke writer by buying her a coffee? https://ko-fi.com/lizzieangel

[apronnash]

Just thought of such a great, yet horrible way for a Buddie confession. Okay, so don’t hate me, but here’s the episode/fic idea:

The episode opens with Buck bloodied and lying on the ground in the middle of the road. There are muffled voices and shadows dancing around him. A car alarm blaring in the background. He just stares up at the audience. His voice comes over to narrate something Grey’s Anatomy style about wishes, love, death, and missed moments.

Cut to black.

Earlier. Buck wakes up in the same kind of position in his loft bed, eyes looking through the screen. It’s bright and sunny and he hops out of bed to make breakfast. He’s got a shift today and he needs to run some errands for this big dinner he planned for tonight. Today’s the day he’s gonna tell Eddie he loves him.

Meanwhile, Eddie’s prepping Chris for school with Carla and they discuss his dinner with Buck and how he feels awkward he hasn’t told him that he and Ana are moving in together. Carla is *shook* - and knowing Buck and Eddie finally speaks her mind: “are you sure you’re doing this for the right reasons?” Eddie’s confused and tries to say something when Carla interrupts and says “don’t lie to me, I’ve seen the way you’ve been eyeing our Buckaroo lately; and Chris tells me you’ve been spending more time thinking about him than pretty Miss Flores.” Eddie goes all red and tries to make excuses, but Carla’s not having any of it. Finally, he says, “I can’t. Buck’s too important to me and besides, he’s got Taylor.”

Little does he know, Taylor’s long gone to NYC for a new job as a reporter for NBC.

Buck’s walking out of Whole Foods with bags of new ingredients he and Bobby have been working through in their quest to explore the culinary world. Buck crosses the street and BAM! A crash - cut to black.

It’s 12:32pm and Buck still hasn’t shown up for his shift. Bobby, Hen, Chim, and Eddie are starting to get worried. But their concerns are interrupted by the alarm. A vehicle accident plowing through a crowd of pedestrians on Lasalle (just made that up lol). Eddie shudders, a sudden wave of worry washing over him.

Now, it’s back to the opening scene. Buck can’t move - it hurts all over, he just stares helpless at the audience as blood seeps through his clothes and mouth. Whimpering.

The 118 pull up to the scene and they check on the driver. This woman is distraught - “I didn’t seem him coming! I didn’t see him coming!” Eddie shivers… he’s hit with deja vu. He gets her checked and proceeds to the epicenter of the commotion, presumably the person who was hit.

Chim and Hen are bent down by a blonde man. Eddie rushes over but is stopped by Bobby. Eddie’s confused - why can’t he help? “You can’t do this. You’re too close to this.” Bobby mutters.

Eddie’s heart drops into his stomach. He uses his strength to push Bobby aside and pushes past the crowd to see Chim and Hen crouching by Buck’s side, body broken, skin pale and bloody, body angled in the same way Shannon’s was in her last moments.

Eddie’s world slows. Every emotion he felt then, he felt now. Maybe even worse the second time around. Bobby tries to pull him back, but he doesn’t relent. He crouches down next to Chim as he puts a neck brace on Buck. Buck, slowly looks at Eddie, whispers “E- Eddie… you-you’re here” through the severe pain he feels in his chest, with a pained smile and tears flowing down his face. “Looks like m-my luck finally ran out this time,” he says effortfully.

Eddie tries his best to keep it together. “You’re gonna be fine, Buck. You’re gonna be fine.” He turns on medic mode and tries to help Hen and Chim finish up their check. Hen and Chin exchange a solemn look and shake their heads as they begin changing their course of treatment, trying anything to keep Buck alive. Eddie follows along as he tries to keep Buck talking. They get to a point where they just have to hoist Buck on to a gurney and transport - he’s losing time.

Chim gets into the front of the ambulence, while Hen and Eddie get into the back. Hen’s getting the monitors set up and all the tubes and wires placed onto Buck’s body. “Eddie…” Hen looks over to him with watery eyes.

“Wha- what are- why aren’t you doing anything?” Eddie exclaims.

“When I put this tube in… there’s a good chance it may not come back out.” Suddenly, Eddie’s breathless. These are almost the exact words she said to him when it was Shannon.

He turns to Buck. “Eddie, listen to her. We- we don’t have much time left.” Buck is weakly holding on to Eddie’s wrist.

“No, Buck. Don’t say that. Stop it. You’re going to be fine.” He can feel his voice shaking.

“I- I don’t feel anything anymore,” Buck explains. “Eddie, I- I have something to tell you.”

Eddie can’t stop the tears flowing from his eyes now. “Save it for later, when you’re in your hospital bed, awake.”

“I- I’m not sure if I’m gonna make it. Eddie, I- I love you.”

Eddie’s heart explodes.

“Eddie, I’ve been in love with you for- for so long. That’s what I was gonna tell you tonight.”

“But, what about Tay-“

“She’s gone. New York. New job. Look- It took me so long to figure this out, but- but it’s you. It’s always been you and Chris.”

“God, Chris.” Eddie’s tears flow more fiercely. “You can’t do this, Buck. You can’t do this! He- I- we will never forgive you for this.”

“I- I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.” Buck cries weakly. “All I ever wanted was to be a part of your family.”

“You are! You always were. Come on. You’re in my will for gods sake. I LOVE YOU TOO!”

Buck smiles and reaches for Eddie’s face. Eddie grabs his hand and kisses it. He leans and kisses him. “I love you too, okay? I love you too. So, fight. I put you in my will because you are a fighter, now fight it, damn it! Whatever light you’re seeing, whatever’s calling for you, fight it, Evan!”

There’s so much emotion in his voice, so unlike himself. Buck laughs, seeing the love of his life finally being honest with his feelings. “I love you…” his voice fades on the last word as the monitor starts to flatline.

“No! No! Buck, wake up! Wake up!” Eddie pleads. Hen pushes him out of the way and intubates him. It’s no use, as the monitor is still flat, the long beep signaling no heartbeat ringing through the ambulance. Hen moves to compressions. It doesn’t work. Eddie pulls himself together. He grabs the paddles and yells “charge!” and shocks Buck. His heart comes back momentarily, but then flatlines again. He keeps going.

“Eddie- I” Hen says, crying.

“No! I know he wouldn’t stop fighting for me, for us. So I’m not stopping for him.”

Eddie alternates between compressions and the paddles. They finally arrive at the hospital. The back doors open as he’s mid-compressions. “Male, 29, multiple traumas - he was hit by a car.”

The doctor looks at the monitor: “how long has he been down?”

“Approximately 5 minutes.” Hen replies.

A brief pause. Then “Call it.”

“What?” Eddie yells. “No, stop. What are you doing.”

The doctor holds his hands up and gets closer. “I’m sorry, he’s been down for too long, I’m afraid- I’m afraid he’s-“

Eddie cuts him off. “He’s not! He’s not gone. Come on, Buck, wake up. Come on, Evan!”

He can feel Hen’s arms reach to pull him away. Suddenly, the heart monitor picks back up. It starts slowly, then gradually get’s stronger.

“He’s back!”

“Alright, let’s get him to OR 2! Stat!”

The doctors grab the gurney and rush off.

The last scene leaves Eddie with Buck’s blood over him, standing alone looking through the ER doors as they shut in front of him. Cut to black.

[depvotee]

I know it’s a lot but if you like and it’s not too much of a bother would you please do all numbers for Jason from the Deputy questionnaire? 👀 I‘m curious about him

BUCKLE UP BUCKAROO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okey yknow what? lets make it a pt1 and pt2 bc this is gonna be HUGE if i dont.

1. What’s their name?

Jason Hale

2. How old are they?

37 years old by 2018.

3. What’s their style like? (Clothing style, hats, gloves, masks, etc.)

Jason is all about practicality and it shows throughout his outfits on all regions, he wears a tank top on John's, a bomber jacket on Faith's and a turtle neck on Jacob's, altho he always wears bulletproof vests ans gloves.

Even before the collapse, he wears denim and logo shirts, the wackier the logo on the thing and the more 'I came from a wack gift shop beside the road" is the more he likes it. Of course, he's also not against plain ole shirts.

4. What type of weapons do they prefer?

Living is such a rural place like Hope County it's basically a 'must know' the handling of guns. So, he prefers shotguns, especially his own, its called lemon pie, he has another shotgun but that's more in case of emergency thing since it was his mother's, it's hidden near his house. He also knows how to use handguns.

Jason doesn't like the smell of powder that it leaves on the hands, so he always procures to wear gloves.

5. What’s their outfit (transportation) like?

This big pick-up patrols but since he was suspended, he uses his old beat-up car, she old but she's been through thick and thin with the Hales. She lasted 20 years, so, she may last 20 many more.

6. Do they like what they do? (Deputy, Cultists, totally non-partial bystander just waiting for the chance to shoot someone, etc.)

Deputy, he basically helped train other younger deputies, he went out of town but since he's back, Jason asked for his job back... But he was recently suspended :)

7. What are their thoughts on the cult?

Wack jobs, he cannot understand why they'll go into it or why not go back home. Well, imagine this dude's face when his best friend forever and ever, used to do grown-up pajamas with was a key part. (and that doesn't even begin to cover it)

8. What’s their first thought when they took the first step in Joseph’s chapel? Alt: What’s their first thought when Joseph announced to go out for the reaping?  

Creeps. Nothing but the creeps.

9. How do they feel about the preppers?

The OTHER wackjobs in town. But well, they got the best shelters in case of anything right?

10. How about Dutch? Do they get along with?

Father figure. Jason is one of the last people Dutch considers that care about him, Dutch used to be a hunting partner with Jason's mom, so he basically saw him grow up. (I've got more story abt this that also involves Dutch wife but I wanna write that at more length later on.)

The thing is Jason goes to take a look at Dutch every now and then. Also might or might not take him out of trouble with the Sherrif's department.

11. First thoughts on the Seed family?

He wasn't so sure, he'd only ever met Jacob previously, it wasn't until Jacob asked him to come to church with him that he got the first taste of the Seeds. It wasn't pleasant but not something he quite could've put his finger on why. Jason just mark it as maybe not begin used to going to church or something. Needless to say, Jacob got the memo and hanged outside the church.

12. What’s the region they feel most connected to? 

Whitetails, he leaves near the place, it's quiet, he has been most of this life there riding dirt bikes with friends long gone out of state or stealing his mom's car to go into Falls End for a Midnight ride and his sister tagging along.

13. From the GFH/FGH which one they get along with the most?

Nick Rye and Grace. Nick is Jason's best friend begin the same age and also stuck on Hope's they quickly made it not only work but genuinely liked each other, they're were joined by the hip.

Grace is also a long-time friend of Jason, he's one of the few people she's able to open up fully. Jason says Grace is a great comedian but folk as yet to see her tell one.

14. From the Police department which one they get along with?

Whitehorse and Hudson. Whitehorse was in the same slot as Dutch, which he also saw Jason grow up, but Whitehorse takes a more "disciplinary" figure, he cares deeply about Jason and his future, he wanted him to be Sheriff since that basically settle him for life that until Jason left town, which in turn made him furious. He still ofc cares abt him.

As for Hudson, she was Jason's brightest you could say, she has teeth for the job and has a head on her shoulders. Jason respects her but also knows although very capable, she's doesn't have everything figured out.

15. From Fall’s End which person they get along with?

Mary-May, Jason used to be pals with her dad. Later became more friends with her, they used to play at arcades or look at old discs and trade some vinyls. Sometimes Jason will distract her while Nick messes with the jukebox

[madddddy]

From The Ground Up:

Buck POV:

I don't know what to do. I already apologized to the 118, especially Cap, but they still treat me like shit. It's been 8 months since the lawsuit and I haven't gone out on a call once. I know if I told Maddie or my parents, they would tell me to "go home". I'm starting to think that may be the best thing for me. At least my family knows I'm not on blood thinners anymore. Sitting at home, nursing a beer, I made my decision. I'm going home.

The next day I call up the fire chief and ask if I can get an appointment for that day. They are thankfully able to get me in at 1. I glance at the clock seeing that it's 10am. I text Maddie to have her come over. She lets herself in with her key and I get up to hug her.

"Hey Mads"

"Hey Evan. So why did you want to talk to me?"

"I think I'm going to go home. Its been 8 months and I haven't been out on a call once. I have an appointment with the chief at 1 today. I don't want this to affect your relationship with Chim. He has actually been one of the only ones who has talked to me. Him and Hen have been friends, but Cap and Eddie. They just glare or say things to my face that I just can't take anymore. I'm gonna surprise dad, but I'll call Kelly, Matt, and Boden to let them know. I'll miss you but you know where I'll be."

I look at Maddie to see her with tears in her eyes but she looks understanding. She nods and says,

"I understand Evan. You need a "new" start. I will miss you but I'm glad Chim and Hen have been there for you. I'll help you pack once you get back from the chief since I have today off. I can call Hen and Chim to see if they'll help too, but they probably will anyway."

I nod and get up. She stands up and we hug for what seems like hours, but its only 5 minutes. When we separate, she takes my hand into hers and drags me towards the door.

"Mads what are you doing?" I ask amused.

"We are going out to get breakfast at our favorite diner, then we are picking up Chim and Hen, then coming back here so you can type up your resignation and us three can start packing as you go talk to the chief. After your meeting, you will call Kelly, Matt, and Boden like you said"

I just nod and get my shoes on. We get out to the car and decide on driving my Jeep. Maggie's diner is about 10 minutes away from my loft, so it doesn't take long to get there. The hostess sees us and smiles since we are regulars here and she shows us to "our table". Patti, our favorite waitress comes to our table and smiles when she sees us.

"Well look what the cat dragged in! The Buckley siblings! Y'all want your regular?"

We both nod and Patti winks at us and walks away. Maddie looks at me pointedly so I take that as a point to start thinking of what I should say in my resignation. As if reading my mind, she pulls out a pad of paper and pencil. I start writing and once I do I just keep writing and I don't even realize our food is here until it gets set in front of me. We eat, pay and then head out. Maddie calls Chim and Hen and they agree to head over to the loft, even if they are a bit confused.

"Hey buckaroo!" Hen greets when I open the door for her and Chim. I hug them both and let them in. They already know most about what is going on at the firehouse, so they aren't super surprised when I say I am leaving. I tell them I'm planning on going home to Chicago, as soon as possible. Maddie looks at the time and tells me to get going so I'm not late to the meeting, and that them three will get packing. I thank them and head out.

45 minutes later I'm walking into the fire chief's office.

"Firefighter Buckley" Chief Torres greets and I shake his hand.

"Thank you for seeing me today Chief Torres. I am here because I would like to transfer stations. Specifically to firehouse 51 in Chicago. As for why, things at the 118 have not been good. Captain Nash and Firefighter Diaz have been holding personal vendettas against me because of my lawsuit from 8 months ago. Firefighters Han and Wilson have been the only ones from the firehouse treating me like a human. They don't participate in the jibes towards me and they still talk to me. They don't deserve to be punished, but Nash and Diaz should be. They shouldn't be fired, but maybe suspended. But I will leave that up to you. I came from Chicago and I started at the 51. I made a family there and I would love to return to it."

The chief sits there for a few before nodding and pulling out transfer papers. He signs them and then stands up.

"I hate to lose a good firefighter, but I feel after what you said, I will be looking into Nash and Diaz. Have a good life in Chicago Buckley."

I stand up and shake his hand. I take the papers and walk out to my Jeep. I call Maddie to let her know I'm on my way back. When I get back to my place, I'm surprised at how much they had gotten packed up, but then again, I didn't have much. We call a moving company and book them for the next day. Next I call the men that have become my older brothers in all but blood, Matt Casey and Kelly Severide.

*Ring ring ring*

Matt: "Hey Ev! What's up?"

Buck: "Hey Matty, can you grab Kel and see if Boden is free? If he isn't just go somewhere private. I need to talk to you all."

Matt: "Sure. Is everything alright?"

Buck: "Yeah nothing bad. Just got something to talk to you about."

Matt: "Okay Ev, I have all of us in Boden's office with the door shut."

Buck: "Okay. So I just want to say this all at once so please don't interrupt me and ask questions at the end. Things here have not been good since the lawsuit. Chim and Hen have been good but Diaz and Nash have been cold and distancing me. I am hoping that I can be transfered back home. I have the papers ready, just need a spot. And before you ask, yes Maddie is okay with it. And no I haven't talked to dad, I wanna surprise both my parents. So what do you say Boden, you want another Herrmann on your team?"

Boden: "Okay Buck, I think we can make room here at 51 for you. I told you when you left there would always be a spot for you and I meant it. I would love for you to come back here. What do you think boys?"

Kelly: "Well Cub, I wish you came to us about the 2, I understand why you didn't. I want you to come home too and Matt here is agreeing with me. You want us to pick you up from the airport when you land?"

Buck: "That would be great. Can I stay with you guys? Until I find a place? That or I'll stay with my parents. I should be out there tomorrow late afternoon. I'll text you to let you know for sure"

Matt: "Sounds good Buck. Can't wait to see you. And don't worry, we won't tell your dad."

Buck: "Okay I'll see you guys tomorrow. Love you!"

All three: "Love you!"

*Click*

I want back into the living room where the three are sitting.

"Hey Mads, Chim, Hen. Boden told me I have a spot there and Matty and Kel said they'll pick me up from the airport. You said you booked one right?"

She nods, "yeah I did Evan. I'm glad Matt and Kelly will pick you up. I like that you are surprising mom and dad. Are you gonna stay there or with the boys?"

"I'm not sure yet. The boys said I can stay with them but if mom and dad want me to stay with them, I will"

"Not to interrupt this, but who are Boden, Kelly, and Matt?" Hen asks.

"Oh right! I forgot you guys don't know our friends and family from Chicago! So I was adopted after Evan wasn't able to save our older brother with a bone marrow transplant. He got adopted by Christopher and Cindy Herrmann in Chicago. He grew up there, became a firefighter like our dad and his godfather Mouch. He moved here and worked at the 118, as you know. When I moved here and started dating you Chim, I was able to reconnect with him, since I recognized his birthmark. We talked and cried. I told him how I was disowned by our birth parents because I am bi and he introduced me to our parents. They immediately unofficially adopted me into their family and so I call them mom and dad. Kelly and Matt are other firefighters at 51 and they all went to the academy together and became like brothers. Kelly and Matt are married." Maddie explained. I'm nodding along.

"Yep. Mom and dad treat Maddie like their own and I want to go home to Chicago because personally, it's toxic here for me. You guys are great and I love you but Eddie and Bobby are the worst right now. I know you stand up for me and I appreciate it a lot but I just need my original family. I'll keep in touch of course and I'll miss you but you are always willing to visit me in Chicago." I added on.

Chim and Hen nodded and got up to give me a hug.

The next hours fly by and the next thing I know, I'm landing in O'Hare airport. I see the men who are like my older brothers and run to give them each a hug.

"Hey Ev! How have you been?"

"I've been better but I'm do happy to be here." It's slightly muffled because I'm in the middle of hugging them. I pull back the they see my tears on my face and each wipe them off my face. I smile at them softly and they smile back.

"Hey Cub." Kelly says softly.

"Hi" I reply just as softly.

"Let's get out of here eh?" Matt asks.

I just nod and they each flank one of my sides whole carrying my duffle. The rest of my stuff is in the moving truck. We walk out to Matt's truck. I climb in and we take off to the 51. We stay in comfortable silence with me just watching the city go by. We get there 20 of so minutes later but it seems shorter than that. We get out and the go to each of my sides again. They have always been taller than me and I say I hate it but I secretly love it. I see my dad talking to my uncle Mouch in the break room. Sylvie Brett is the first one to see me and she gasps loudly making everyone turn toward me.

"SURPRISE!" I shout shocking them out of their frozen states.

Next thing I know I am tackled by my dad and godfather. Boden is secretly recording this for everyone.

"What the hell are you doing here?!" My dad and godfather ask at the same time.

"Well it's a long story which I will tell over drinks at Molly's tonight, but pretty much, things got crappy at 118, and I wanted to come home. Don't worry dad, Mads was the one to talk me into it. And only Diaz and Nash were the ones who were bad. Hen and Chim have been good." He just nods and they both step back so everyone else can hug me. The girls are next, Shay, Stella, and Sylvie come running up next hugging me super tight, but I'm hugging back just as tight. I hug everyone else except for 2 people I don't recognize. I turn to my dad questionably.

"Ah right. Evan, these are Darren Ritter and Blake Gallo. They are new to the house." I shake their hands and for some reason I get butterflies shaking Gallo's hand. I think the girls sensed something because they gave me knowing looks. I gave them 'the look' back.

"Hi, I'm Evan Buckley-Herrmann. I used to go by Buck but I think I'm gonna start going by Evan again." I smile at them. They smile back and shake my hand.

"Hi Evan, I'm Darren Ritter. I've been here for about a year."

"Hi, I'm Blake Gallo and I've been here about 5 or so months"

I smile and nod to each of them. When Gallo smiles back all I can think of is damn his smile is cute. Fuck I'm so gone on him and I just met him.

"Oh dad! I didn't tell mom either so I think I'll stay here until shift is done and then we can stop by home, pick her up and we'll all go to Molly's and meet up with the crew from Med and Intelligence?"

"Sounds good Ev. You wanna borrow some turnout gear and go with? If that's okay of course." He asked the last part directed towards Boden. Boden nods and so I agree pretty quickly. Almost as if it knows, the alarm goes off.

*Time skip to end of shift because I cannot write fire scenes for shit*

Dad and I walk out of the firehouse at the end of shift and get in his car. After about 5 minutes he speaks up,

"So what was that with Gallo?"

Shit. Play dumb.

"What do you mean?"

Good, good.

"Look, I know what flirting looks like, son. And I know you are gay since you came out to us in high school. I'm also not dumb, so I'll ask again, what was that with Gallo?"

I sigh. He always knows how to read me.

"He is cute, and I think I might be getting a crush on him, but it's nothing and he is most likely straight anyways."

"Well, I'm glad you told me, and I think you may have a better chance than you think."

And with that we pull into the driveway of my childhood home. We get out of the car and dad goes in first. I hear him say to mom,

"Hey honey, I have a surprise for you. Close your eyes"

After a few seconds he comes out and beckons me inside. I walk up and say,

"Hey mom."

She opens her eyes and shrieks when she sees me. She runs up to me and hugs me as tight as she can and I hug her back just as tight. Dad comes up to us and hugs us too. After a few we reluctantly separated.

"So what are you doing here?" She asks as she wipes the tears off her face. I tell her what I told dad and she nods and goes to get ready to go to Molly's. Dad and I do the same.

We get to Molly's and I'm bombarded by hugs again from my friends from Med and Intelligence. I am friends with Jay and Will Halstead, Mouse Gerwitz, Antonio Dawson, Hailey Upton, Adam Ruzek, Kim Burgess, Alvin Oilinsky, not Voight because of reasons, Kevin Atwater, Trudy Platt, Ethan Choi (he's not a dick here), Crockett Marcel, Natalie Manning, Maggie Lockwood, April Sexton, Connor Rhodes, Daniel Charles and Sharon Goodwin. They are all there and as soon as they heard I was back in town, they all came to Molly's. I also got hugs again from Kel, Matty, Joe, Otis, Sylvie, Stella, Shay, Andy, Boden, Tony, and Capp. I shake Gallo and Ritter's hands again. They all look at me expectantly, waiting for the story. I sigh and start talking.

"Okay so basically, you all remember how I was crushed under the truck? Well at my welcome back party, I had a pulmonary embolism in my ex-captains backyard. I wake up in the hospital and find out I need to go on blood thinners because I worked too hard doing my recertification. I go to dinner at my ex-captains house and find out why I can't go back on calls because of him. He is the one keeping me as a fire marshal. I make a dumb mistake and decide to sue the department and him. The lawyer threatened them all and tried to offer me a payout but I just wanted to go back to the firehouse. When I decided to come home, I hadn't been out on a call in 8 months. I got tired of it so I texted Maddie, my sister, and she came over. We went out to brunch at our favorite diner. On our way back to my loft, she called her boyfriend and his best friend, both of whom are my ex-coworkers but they were very vocal about my treatment and never shut me out. I went to talk to the chief, and he signed the transfer papers. I went back home to find that the three of them had packed all my things and Maddie booked me a flight for the next day, aka today. I called Matty, he got Boden and Kel into the office and I told them my plan. Next thing I know they are picking me up from O'Hare, we went to the firehouse, I surprised you all, went out on a few calls, went home to surprise mom, and came here to tell you my story."

I look around and see many shocked and furious faces.

"Okay I know those faces, you don't need to murder them, I told the chief what happened and recommend he suspend but not fire Diaz and Nash."

They all look more satisfied at that, but still mad. Gallo and Ritter just looked shocked.

"Wait wait wait, you are telling me that YOU WERE THE GUY TRAPPED UNDER THE TRUCK?!" Gallo asked, shocked.

I nod sheepishly.

"Yeah some kid was tryna blow up my captain but I was in his seat for the day. Don't remember why."

He just blew out a breath.

"Okay less sad things, what have I missed with you all?"

Jay speaks up first.

"Well Mouse and I finally got engaged!" He said, showing me his ring.

I jump up and go hug them both.

"I'm so happy for you two!"

They thank me and Connor goes next.

"Will and I finally got our heads out of our asses and got together."

I hug them both too and congratulate them.

"Matt and I are still together obviously" Kelly says. I roll my eyes and smack him on the head.

"I got a new girlfriend." Shay says slyly looking at Sylvie.

"I broke up with my boyfriend." Gallo says shrugging.

I feel both the girls and dads eyes on me but I very clearly ignore them. Everyone else is kinda confused but brushes it off.

"Chole is pregnant with my son!" Joe says excitedly.

"Oh my god dude congrats! I'm so happy for you!"

Everyone else shares something or say nothing new.

Couple hours later, it started to wind down and I'm at a table with the Halstead brothers, their other haves and Shay, Kim, and Hailey.

"So what's that with Gallo?" Mouse asks me pointedly. They all turn to me and I know my face is heating up.

"Nothing! There is nothing going on with Gallo!"

They all give me a 'drop the bullshit' look and I sigh.

"Okay fine, you all can stop giving me that look. I might have a slight crush on him. And it may be a little more now that I know he likes guys. But what if he doesn't like me?"

They all look at me in understanding.

"Evan, I love you, but why the fuck would he not want to go out with you? You are good looking, you are sweet, and anyone who wouldn't date you is dumb. And I'm a fucking lesbian." Shay says to me, everyone nodding along showing they agree with her.

"Yeah Cubby, I may not be a lesbian but you are like my brother, anyone who wouldn't date you is dumb" Kim adds on.

I sigh and nod. They all smile at me and we start talking about Jay and Mouse's wedding. Little did I know there was a very similar conversation at the table with Gallo, Ritter, Stella, Sylvie, Adam, and Andy.

Gallo POV:

"So Gallo, what was that with Evan?" Stella asks me.

"I have no idea what you are talking about"

"Cut the bullshit Blake. We all saw what was going on between you two" Andy says to me.

Fine, guess I'm not getting out of this one.

"Okay, I like him, but he is Herrmann's son! And I don't even know if he likes guys."

They all snort and start laughing then they look at me. I'm confused.

"Gallo, Evan is as gay as a fucking rainbow." Adam says to me in between laughter.

Wait, what?

"He's gay?"

They all nod.

Okay, I have a better chance now. They must've seen me thinking because Sylvie pats my shoulder and gets my attention.

"You should go for it. I've seen the way he's been looking at you all night. Just, maybe wait until tomorrow." She says, then walks over to Shay and grabs her hand. And pulls her up and out of the bar. The rest of them are not far behind and soon it's just Ritter, me, Evan, Cindy, and Herrmann. I go say goodbye to my best friend, the Herrmanns and Evan.

"Hey Evan, I'm gonna head out but it was nice to meet you" I hold my hand out for a shake but he pulls me into a hug shocking me at first before I hug him back. Once we pull apart I realize he is drunk because he plants a kiss on my cheek. My face heats up bright red. Ritter is looking at me amused and so I flip him off before we head out since he drove me and didn't drink tonight.

We get to my place and I wave goodbye. I fall asleep to the thought of Evan Buckley-Herrmann...

Buck POV:

I don't remember much from last night cause I ended up getting more drunk than I wanted too. I do however remember hugging Gallo. My face heats up at the thought of him. Oh god I can't believe I hugged him and kissed his cheek. He is never gonna wanna speak to me again. I'm pulled out if my spiral by dad knocking on my door.

"Come in!" I call

"Hey son, I thought you might have a headache after last night so here's some water and Tylenol. Also because I know you, I saw what you did to Gallo and just know, he doesn't hate you and actually texted me asking for your number, so if you get an unexpected text from a unknown number, that's all me. Love you, I'll see you in a few before we have to head in."

I nod and he closes the door. Well that's good that he doesn't hate me.

*Ding!*

I look over at my phone and see:

+773-675-6554:

Hey Evan! This is Blake Gallo. I hope you don't mind that Herrmann gave me your number. I was wondering if you wanted to get dinner tonight? As a date?

Hey Blake! I would love to! I also wanna apologize for last night, I was super drunk. I didn't mean to get that drunk. I'll see you at work today.

It's okay! I'll pick you up around 7? We get off shift at 6.

Sounds perfect! See you later!

See ya!

I groan and lay back on my bed. I stay there for like 30 seconds before I shoot up and start to freak out. Oh god I have a date. I have a date with Blake Gallo. I HAVE A DATE WITH BLAKE FUCKING GALLO! I lay face down on my bed like a teenager and stay there. I hear my door knock and I just groan. He comes in and chuckles at me.

"What's wrong?"

I just chuck my phone at him. They know my password since I don't ever really have much to hide from them, and if I do, I hide it good.

He reads the texts and laughs.

"Isn't that a good thing?" He asks me, amused.

"Yeah. But I have nothing to weaaar." I say sounding like a child.

"Well how about your mom goes and gets you some new clothes, since she knows your size, and then you are ready for your date. Sound good?"

I nod and get up.

"Okay. Now get dressed! We gotta leave in 5 minutes!"

I scramble to get dressed and we head out. I'm excited to have my first full shift at the 51. We pull in and get out. I smile when I see the "WELCOME HOME MINI HERRMANN" banner hanging up. We get ready and as soon as we are all ready, the alarm rings out. It was a quick one, a car accident. We were pretty busy today so it went by quick. I couldn't help but look at Blake when I thought no one was looking but a certain pair of husband's certainly saw this. They pulled dad off to the side to talk to him when we had a free moment.

"So why does Ev keep looking at Gallo?"

My dad laughs and tells then about the texts from this morning, but makes then promise that they won't let me know they know. (Yes I pulled a friends). They agree and as soon as they are done talking the alarm goes off one last time. Our last call went all the way to the end of our shift so I hurry and make dad leave quick, much to the surprise of those who don't know about the date. Gallo is not far behind them rushing out and a few people have knowing looks.

We get home and I see what clothes mom got me and decide on a maroon button up shirt and black jeans with my black doc martens. I gel my hair and about that time is when I get a text:

Blake:

Hey! I'm outside!

Okay! I'll be right out!

I double check I have everything and head out, saying bye to my parents. I walk out and see him leaning up against his car. He hugs me and I hug back, taking in his scent that seems oddly comforting. We break apart and he goes to open my door. I smile at him as I get in the car and he smiles back. He gets in and starts driving. I tentatively reach across the center console to grab his hand and he holds it. We smile at each other and he pulls into a small hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant. We get out and he grabs my hand again as we walk in.

"Reservation for Gallo" he says to the hostess. She nods and grabs 2 menus taking us to our table. We look at them and decide what we want. He gets the chicken enchiladas with a coke and I get fish tacos with a sprite. She takes our orders and walks away. I reach across the table and hold his hand. We start talking about our childhoods. He learns I wasn't born to mom and dad and I learn about how his family died. We talk for so long we don't realize our food is here until it gets set down. We eat, and he pays even though I try to protest. He just says "I asked out on a date. If this goes well, you can pay for the next one." I sigh and realize he wasn't going to give it up so I relent. We head back out to his car and he drives us out to a ledge to look over the city. He has a truck and backed it up so we can lay on his bed to look at the stars. We cuddled there since he brought blankets to lay down. We didn't talk, I just had my head on his chest, watching the stars.

"Evan?" He asks softly.

I look up at him and respond, "yeah?"

He looks down at me and asks, "can I kiss you?"

I nod and meet him halfway. His lips are so soft and sweet. His tongue is asking permission to enter my mouth and I let it. I moan into his mouth and he does the same when I put my tongue in his. We make out for a few minutes before we have to take a breather. We rest our foreheads against each other.

"That was amazing," I breathed out.

He just nods and we sit there. He then leans in to kiss me again, this time much more chaste.

"Do you wanna come back to my place? We don't have to have sex, but I just want to snuggle you" he asks after a few.

I look up at him through my eyelashes and nod. We get out of his truck bed and he grabs the blankets and shuts the tailgate. I climb in and let my dad know I won't be home. He just sends back winky faces and tells me to be safe. I sent him the middle finger emoji and shut my phone off. He climbs in and we head to his place. He turns on the radio and I hear one of my favorite songs, From The Ground Up by Dan+Shay. I start humming along and then when Blake turns it up I start to sing which causes him to sing along too. We both laugh and are so joyful when the song ends that we keep singing along with the radio. We pull into his apartment complex and get out. We get up there and I realize I don't have pajamas. I tell Blake this and he tells me I can borrow a shirt and sweats from him. He hands them to me and I go change. We fall asleep pretty quickly, him spooning me from behind. I feel so comfortable in his arms and it just feels right. I never believed in soulmates, but Blake Gallo is making me believe in them now.

I wake up the next morning to see Blake looking at me lovingly. I smile back up at him and kiss him. We both smile into the kiss.

"I gotta get back to my parents before shift since I don't want to go in my nice clothes" I murmur against his lips.

"Or you could borrow my clothes if you want?" He says with a shrug.

I agree, not really wanting to head back to my parents. I borrow a pair of jeans a t shirt, neither of us looking at it closely.

We head out and go to the firehouse. I hold his hand across the center console again, occasionally pulling out joined hands to kiss them. On the way there he asks me to be his boyfriend and I agree immediately. When we pull in, we smile at each other and get out. We keep our hands joined, not wanting to hide this from our family. We hear wolf whistles and cheers and we just shake our heads with smiles.

"Hey kid! Nice shirt!" I hear Mouch say.

I turn around confused a little bit before Stella takes pity on me,

"Cubby, your shirt says 'Gallo'"

We both blush and walk away. I hear Ritter going to talk to Blake and I see the resident hubby's walking over to me. They pull me into Matt's bunk and push me onto the bed.

"Talk" they both say.

I sigh and say, "okay, so the day before yesterday, I got a text from Blake asking if he wants to go on a date. The night before when it was just Ritter, him, me, and my parents, when he came to say goodbye, I was so drunk I pulled him into a hug and kissed his cheek. I apologized the next morning but he asked me on a date and I said yes. He picked me up from my parents house, opened the car door for me like a gentleman, and we went to a Mexican restaurant, then out to the ledge that looks out over the city. We laid in the bed of his truck just watching the stars when he asked if he could kiss me. I said yes, we kissed a few times then he asked if I wanted to go back to his place. He said we don't need to have sex and that he just wants to snuggle me. I agree, let my dad know, which was a mistake considering he is a kid at heart. We sang along to the radio on the way back since my favorite song came on, we got back to his place and he gave me sweats and a shirt to wear. We laid in bed, with him as the big spoon. We woke up together and I was at first gonna ask him to drop me off at home but then he just said I can borrow clothes from him so we don't have to go back. He hands me what I'm wearing, we don't look at the shirt obviously. On the way here we hold hands across the console, I keep kissing our joined hands. We then walk into the firehouse and you know the rest."

They nod along to the entire rant and finally Matt asks, "Are you happy?"

I nod enthusiastically and say, "Very. I haven't been this happy in a long time"

They both nod and get up to give me a hug. I start to tear up because having their and my parents' approval are very important to me.

"As long as you are happy Cub, we are happy." Kelly says, Matt agreeing. At that, I finally let my tears fall and they hug me again and kiss my forehead. After a few, I finally get it together and head out of the bunk. I see Blake talking to Ritter, Otis, and Cruz in the bunk room, so I go up to him and hug him. He hugs me back, a little confused but not complaining. He kisses my forehead ignoring the other three who are looking at the couple with a fond look. They walk away to give us a little privacy, shutting the door.

"What's wrong baby?" He asks me.

I sniff and then look up at him, "Nothing. I am just glad that they are accepting of our relationship. I know we just had our first date last night, but I want to spend the rest of my life with you."

He looks down at me with tears in his eyes too, and kisses my forehead again then my lips.

"I can't imagine my life without you too. All I could dream about last night was marrying you someday and adopting kids with you. I genuinely feel like you are my soulmate. I love you."

At that, the tears start flowing, he wipes my tears with his thumbs and kisses me.

"I love you too" I tell him softly. At that, the alarm goes off and then we are off, but not without one more kiss.

When I climb into the truck, dad asks me if I'm okay. I nod and smile at him, telling him I'll talk to him later. He nods and we are off.

When we get back, Blake and I go to talk to Boden to fill out paperwork for our relationship. He tells us he is proud of us and thanks us for filling out the paperwork. We nod and he hugs us both.

We head into the lounge and decide to cude together on the couch, but not in Mouch's spot. I close my eyes and lay my head on his shoulder. I feel him lay his head on mine and then I am asleep. We wake up when the alarm goes off again.

"Rise and shine lovebirds!" Capp yells at us. We flip him off together. The fire goes out pretty quickly and we are headed back to the station. Blake asks me if we can talk when we pull in and I nod and ask Kelly if we can use his bunk to talk. He says sure, so we head there.

"Okay, I know we literally just started dating, but how would you feel about moving in with me? I know you are looking for a place and your stuff will be here soon. If you don't want to, that's fine, but I figured it would be better for you, and we can split the rent. Whatdya say?"

I take that in for a moment before nodding with a bright grin coming across my face.

"Yeah?" He asks, a hopeful look on his face.

"Yeah." I confirm with a bright grin.

"Yay!! I'm so glad you said yes!"

"I am too. I meant what I said when I said I want to grow old with you. I want to get married and have kids with you. I love you."

"I love you too." He then leaned down to kiss me and I kissed back.

We walk out of the bunk holding hands and smiling. As the shift comes to an end I tell him that I'll head back to my parents for the night and let them know what I'm planning on doing. He says okay and we kiss and head off in different directions. Dad and I get to their house and see my Jeep is there finally. I'm glad, because as much as I love my dad driving me, I need my own vehicle. We walk in and mom greets us. We eat and then I tell them I need to talk to them. They look concerned so I reassure them it's nothing bad.

"Mom, dad, as I'm sure you know by now, Blake Gallo and I are dating. And I know we just started dating but I feel as if I've known him my entire life. He is the person I want to grow old with. He is the person I want to marry someday. He is the person I want to adopt kids with. And I know he feels the same cause he told me. I love him and he loves me. So he asked me to move in with him just because he knows I'm looking for a place and the rent would be cheaper. So I said yes. I hope that's okay."

They look at me with proud looks and tears in their eyes.

"Evan, of course it's okay. After hearing that, I firmly believe you two are soulmates. I don't always believe in love at first sight, but I saw you guys the first time you saw each other and something clicked. Your mother and I will always love you and always be proud of you. We will help you move your stuff along with I'm sure the rest of the firehouse. They all saw something there, and I know you two are meant for each other."

At this point, all of had tears down our faces. I nod and don't say anything because I don't trust my voice. They pull me into a hug and we just hug for a long time. Eventually I speak, "I think I'll stay here for the rest of the week, since we have this weekend off, we can move my stuff then"

They nod and we all head off to bed, but not before they both kiss my forehead. I fall asleep that night thinking of the names Evan Gallo and Blake Herrmann.

The weeks goes by quick. Blake and I explain what we are gonna do and they all agree to help us that weekend. Saturday rolls around and we get everything unpacked pretty quickly since Ieft all my furniture and didn't have much. Next thing I know I'm FaceTiming Maddie, Chim, and Hen to introduce them to my Blake as my boyfriend a few weeks later. They are shocked at first but by the end, Maddie and Chim are coming over for Christmas in a few months. We say bye and hang up the phone. I sigh contently and look over at my boyfriend. He looks back at me lovingly. It's been about a month since we got together. I already bought a ring, but I'm gonna wait a little longer.

*Time skip*

It's now December, getting closer to Christmas time. I want to propose on Christmas in front of our family. Since we became more serious, my family accepted him more. They already liked him since they knew him before, but it's different than being a coworker vs your son's boyfriend. Maddie and Chim are coming like they said they would. They'll be here tomorrow. The firehouse tease us about our relationship, but we both know they are happy for us. They do the same thing with Kel and Matty and Shay and Sylvie, but it's all joking. Christmas rolls around and I'm nervous and excited at the same. We show up at my parents and they let us in. Maddie and Chim are there since they are staying there instead of a hotel. We start opening presents and when it gets to my turn for Blake, I get down on one knee and pull out the ring. Behind me I hear mom and Maddie gasp but right now in focused on Blake.

"Blake, ever since I first laid eyes on you in the lounge room, I knew I liked you. That then morphed into love. I can't see myself with anyone else. I want to have children with you. I want to grow grey and wrinkly with you. I want marry you. So Blake James Gallo, will you marry me?"

He nods yes and falls down to me and we hug and kiss each other like our life depended on it. I slip the ring on as our family cheers for us and gives us all hugs. I see Blake reach into his pocket and pull out a velvet box.

"I was gonna ask you later this week, but Evan Buckley-Herrmann, will you marry me?"

I nod and we kiss again. We put our rings on and keep celebrating Christmas with our family.

We also bought the rubber rings for at work. We aren't telling anyone right out, we are gonna see who figures it out first. I bet on Shay, Blake says Matt, dad says Sylvie, mom and Maddie say Otis, and Chim who has gotten to know 51, says Stella. In the end, mom and Maddie were right. He noticed our rings and congratulated us prompting everyone else to do the same. The girls offered to plan it with Maddie. I ask Maddie to be my best woman and Blake asks Ritter to be his best man. We asked Boden to officiate it. My dad will walk me down the aisle. We each took turns deciding who we wanted for our groomsmen/women. We ended up doing a fall wedding because that is our favorite season and we had many people from intelligence, med, and firehouse 51 and a few people from California. Our first dance is the song we sang together on our first date. About a year into our marriage Blake and I decided to adopt twins. We now have two girls named Maeve Gallo and Robin Gallo who are 4. They love all the aunts and uncles they have from everywhere in Chicago and LA. They also love their "Papa Herrmann and Grammy Cindy. But also their grandpa Boden". Everyday I am thankful that I decided to leave LA and I'm thankful that the Herrmanns adopted me because if they didn't I don't know where I would be. But I thank God the Buckleys didn't want me and that captain Nash shut me out.

And we'll build this love from the ground up

Now 'til forever it's all of me, all of you

Just take my hand

And I'll be the man your dad hoped that I'd be

And we'll build this love from the ground up

For worse or for better

And I will be all you need

Beside you I'll stand through the good and the bad

We'll give all that we have

And we'll build this love from the ground up

Dan+Shay

[cherishingstydia]

Thank you for the idea @lilywoood 😘

1.

It was a pretty slow day at work. Everyone was basically just sitting around playing on their phones between the few calls they’d gotten. Buck couldn’t help but notice that Eddie was paying no attention to anything other than his phone. What was so interesting? Who was so interesting?

He moved closer to get a better look. Then he realized Eddie was texting someone. He had to know who so he glanced over seeing the name “Rebecca” at the top of the screen. Buck was mad but how can he be mad Eddie is a grown man and can talk to who ever he wants.

Buck felt like his heart was breaking, but it’s not like Eddie is his boyfriend, Eddie is his best friend...his straight bestfriend who has no interest in him. A wave of jealousy over took him and he couldn’t keep quiet.

“Who’s that?” Buck asked quickly.

“A mom from Christopher’s school.”

“Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why are you talking to her?”

“Chris is going to a sleepover, and I just wanted more details.”

“Oh.”

“Why do you care who I talk to?” Eddie asked

“I don’t. Well what are we doing that night?”

“Who said I was hanging out with you? Maybe I have plans...a date perhaps?”

“You have a date?” Buck laughed hoping it was a joke because he definitely was not ready to see Eddie date anyone.

“No, but is that really so he’s to believe?”

“No I just I didn’t...I don’t know. So do you wanna do something.”

“Well I was just saying I could, but let’s just get some takeout.”

Buck was relieved to know as of now there was no date for Eddie....well he wanted Eddie happy, and dating again if that’s what Eddie wants. But he wants to be the one making him happy, and the one dating him.

2.

“Hey Buck you busy tonight?” Eddie asked.

“No.” Buck smiled.

“Great do you wanna come over for pizza with Chris and I?”

“I’d love to.” Buck smiled.

These were some of Bucks favorite nights. When the three of them were all together they really felt like a family.

Buck waited and waited after Eddie went to the door. He could tell that delivery person was flirting with Eddie he heard them laughing and Eddie was maybe flirting back, but it was a guy...why is Eddie flirting with a guy?

“Did you need some more money?” Buck said placing his hand on Eddies lower back and making eye contact with the delivery man.

“No.” he said quickly as he left.

“Buck you didn’t have to be rude.”

“He was flirting and I’m hungry. I’ve seen you try to flirt we could have been here all night.”

“Oh so you’re only here for the pizza?” Eddie smirked.

“Well Chris too.”

“Maybe I should have got his number since you don’t want me around.”

“His number? You and a guy?”

“Does that make you uncomfortable?” Eddie asked.

“No.”

So now Buck knows Eddie might not be as straight as he thought making him even more jealous thinking about how Eddie wasn’t just being nice he probably was flirting with the delivery guy. Maybe he was interested in that delivery guy.

3.

The monthly night out for the 118 used to be fun, but it seems like everyone wants Eddie. Which Buck understands because Eddie is really hot, and then you get to know him and he’s the most amazing person ever, but he still wishes there was some flaw to turn people off from Eddie. Something that would drive people away.

Eddie usually dances with him, but not tonight. Buck just hates it hates having Eddie so far away...well across the room. Buck sat at the corner booth staring at Eddie who was getting more drinks as he chatted up a beautiful woman.

“Stop pouting.” Hen whispered.

“I’m not.” Buck growled.

“Jealousy's an ugly color on you.” Chimney whispered.

“I’m not jealous.” Buck groaned.

“Ok.” Hen smirked.

“Look Buck I get it she’s beautiful, but Eddie deserves to have a little fun don’t you think.” Chimney smiled.

“I’m not jealous of Eddie.”

“So you’re jealous of her?” Bobby asked.

“I don’t....leave me alone.” Buck said crossing his arms even tighter and letting out a deep breath.

And surprisingly enough they all left him alone, which was rare. Generally they’d keep pestering him.

4.

On a call this woman was all over Eddie, and for what? She fell into Eddie who caught her and she wouldn’t take her hands off.

“I didn’t mean to fall.” She said batting her eyelashes.

“We’re all clumsy sometimes.” Eddie said politely.

“Since you’re such a great catch would you like to get some dinner?”

Buck rolled his eyes Her lines were terrible and there was just something about her Buck instantly disliked, but maybe that’s because she’s also interested in Eddie.

“I don’t think so.” Eddie replied.

Excepted told her no several times more and she just wouldn’t drop it. Kept trying to convince him no matter how much he said he wasn’t interested. The problem is he wasn’t being stern enough he was saying no without being rude she was so persistent. She's the type of person you have to be rude to in order to get the point across.

“He said no.” Buck said angrily.

“I wasn’t talking to you.” She said.

“If the roles were reversed and he was pressuring you into a date how would you feel?” Buck asked angrily.

“I’d like it.” The woman said smugly.

“Haven’t you ever been hit in and been uncomfortable? This is the same thing as some creep at a bar who won’t take no for an answer.” Buck said.

“Buck it’s fine. I’m not going out with her.”

“Whatever.” The woman scoffed before walking away.

5.

The 118 was doing a charity calendar, and Eddies month he was going shirtless. Buck was throwing a fit. He knows it’s Eddies body and it’s not his business but the idea of a bunch of horny middle aged perverts drooling over Eddie was not something he enjoyed the thought of...he wants to be the only one drooling over Eddie, and seeing him shirtless. Which will literally never happen since Eddie is like sex on a stick.

“I just don’t see why you have to be shirtless.” Buck shrugged.

“Buck it’s fine.” Eddie laughed.

“Why are you gonna be shirtless? You just want them all ogling you.”

“Buck why do you care?” Eddie asked.

“I don’t want them all looking at you.” Buck blurted and everyone stared. “I mean me they should look at me.” Buck said running away in embarrassment.

“Buck what is your problem?” Eddie said following after.

“I don’t have a problem. Just leave me alone.” Buck hissed.

“What’s with you lately?” Eddie sighed and walked away.

Eddie was gonna find out. Buck was trying to bury his feelings, but it’s a lot harder than he thought. Buck hated the way he was acting. Hated feeling like he was a bad friend, but he didn’t want Eddie to know the truth. He couldn’t let Eddie know how jealous he was of the idea of anyone looking at him. He felt possessive and he hated it, but he couldn’t help it he wanted Eddie all for himself.

+1

The best way to get over someone is to get under someone new...not that Buck had ever been under Eddie. He stared at Eddie wishing Eddie would feel the same, but he doesn’t and he never will.

Buck stared at the dating app he’d just set up. Not that he knows any of these people, but none will be any where close to as amazing as Eddie. He tries to be positive and think he could meet someone, but he knows he’ll compare them all to Eddie and they won’t measure up.

“Whatcha doing Buckaroo?” Hen asked.

“Well I think I need to start dating again. So why not start online. Easy way to meet people.

“Don’t you know enough people?” Eddie hissed.

“Yeah, but it’s not like anyone is lining up to date me, so I have to look for new people.”

“Maybe you aren’t looking hard enough.” Eddie growled storming out of the room.

“What’s his deal?” Buck rolled his eyes.

“Maybe talk to him.” Hen said.

“Why?” Buck asked with a raised brow.

“Just trust me ok.” Hen smiled.

Buck trusted Hen so he took her advice. Unfortunately every time he tried to talk to Eddie, he kept avoiding. He’d ignore him every time he tried to interact.

Ok so two can play at this game. If he was gonna be immature Buck was gonna be immature too. Buck slashed one of Eddies tires, and leaned against the truck to wait for him...which in hindsight it may have been a bit rash.

“Did you just slash my tire?” Eddie asked angrily.

“Yeah I’ll change it, and pay for a new spare, but I had to because you wouldn’t talk to me.”

“There’s nothing to talk about.”

“Obviously there is. You’re so pissed and I don’t even know why.”

“That’s my problem, you don’t even know. I try and try and it’s like you don’t even notice.”

“What? What do you mean...what are you trying? Just tell me.”

“I was jealous.”

“You don’t need to be you’ll find someone.”

“For someone so smart you can be really stupid sometimes.” Eddie said and in a moment Buck found himself pinned between Eddie and the truck, and Eddies lips were against his in a desperate kiss. “I was jealous because I hate the idea of you dating someone who isn’t me, but I just want you to be happy, and if that’s not with me that’s fine, but I can’t help how I feel.”

“Eddie do you have any idea how jealous I get every time I think you’re interested in someone, or when someone is interested in you.”

“You’re jealous too...so what does that mean exactly?”

“It means I like you...a lot.” Buck smiled.

“I like you a lot too Buck.” Eddie grinned.

“So what now?” Buck asked.

“You know what I wanna see...you on your knees.” Eddie whispered and Buck let out a small whimper. “fixing my fucking tire that you decided you needed to slash.”

“Fuck.” Buck whispered.

“We will, but right now you’re fixing my tire.” Eddie laughed.

[wackybuddiemewbs]

Random Buddie Fic Snippets - no title, just (bad) vibes

Here’s to another snippet of things that ghost through my Word files. This one’s particularly headache-inducing for me personally. For one, trigger warnings galore. And then I have *checks file* 41k (!!!) words worth of non-fic noted down, but it’s really just unassembled bits and pieces of mostly dialog. Grrrrrrr. 😖

Since such a fic would take a lot more planning... which is basically the antithesis of me for all intents and purposes... I pester you with snippets like they are pestering me. Said it before and can only reiterate: I make you suffer with me. *cackles*

Basically, the story plays on the idea that Eddie and Buck grew up together due to plot convenient purposes and meet again at the fire station after years apart. Anyway, here’s to more madness mingled with angst! Cheers!

Buck slings his duffel bag over his shoulder when his phone vibrates. Sighing, he shifts his weight to take it out of his pocket and take the call. A smile creeps up his lips when he sees the picture flare up on his screen.

“Hey, what’s up, Mads?”

“Hey, I just wanted to let you know that you were right about that little bakery downtown. It’s so worth the twenty minute trip,” she nearly groans. And Buck can relate. When he found that authentic Mexican bakery on a long run through the city, he may or may not have shed a few tears of happiness. And he may or may not have bought pastry worth a hundred bucks.

Totally worth it to run all those extra miles for the carbs, though.

“How many conchas did you have?” Buck asks, chuckling softly.

“I’m pleading the fifth.”

“Did you drive back to get more?” he questions, though Buck is fairly sure what the answer is already, which comes promptly, “Which is why I might be late for work.”

Buck laughs, leaning back against his car. “They are in the top 5 of conchas I ever had, which is saying something. So yeah, I get the feeling.”

And he should really know, he’s had the best in the world and no. 2 and 3 also. Though those are not up for sale.

“So, I need a bit of distraction to keep myself from digging through the remains of the bag before I make it to the car,” she tells him.

“Sure, what do you want to hear?”

“Howie told me that you’re getting someone new on the team today. Are you excited?”

“… Oh, ugh, sure.” Buck can feel his jaw cramping at that.

“You know you just sounded more excited about me being on a sugar high thanks to Mexican pastry than you are about your new teammate arriving.”

He’d hoped to avoid that conversation before he got over with it. Because that’s how he normally rolls with it. He gets over with it.

Works with band-aids and most situations that give you discomfort.

But Maddie has maybe not the sixth but seventh sense apparently big sisters seem to inherit by birth, so it appears that not even the most amazing conchas up for sale in all of Los Angeles will spare him having that conversation now. Which is the equivalent of tearing duct tape off, but slowly.

“I’m a huge concha fan, what can I say? And sure, it’s cool. It’d be nice to have a partner on the team, like, permanently, like Chim and Hen, more like.”

Buck rolls his eyes back as far as they will into his skull. It’s a small wonder that Maddie doesn’t buy his bullshit. He was fine just dodging the topic until now, it’s what normally works best for him. But yeah, Maddie just knows how to coax it out of him, and he loves and hates her for it.

“Talk to me, Buck.”

Buck looks up to the sky. “… I guess I’m just a bit nervous.”

“You are nervous? Don’t you think it’s up to the new teammate to be a bundle of nerves?”

“That’s kind of my thing, though,” Buck argues.

He has been ever since Bobby announced that they’d get a newbie, not a probie, but someone to be on the team with them. Dutifully, Buck laughed at the comments about how Bobby seemingly hired him a babysitter to make sure he doesn’t do reckless stuff all the time.

The nervous energy settled in when he got home that day and his leg wouldn’t stop bobbing well into lying in bed, trying to sleep. He only fell asleep halfway through reading the Wikipedia list of minor planets named after people.

“Then why do you feel nervous?”

“It’s nothing.”

“You know you can tell me,” she says softly.

Buck closes his eyes. He understood by now that yes, he can. But that doesn’t mean he wants to. Most of the time, Buck wished he didn’t have to tell anyone anything ever again and simply exist in the here and now. Because the here and now is sunny and tastes of pretty damn awesome conchas.

“I know it’s stupid, but…” His voice trails off.

And maybe she can read his mind, Buck wouldn’t be surprised if it turned out to be the case, because Maddie goes on to say, “You know he’s not taking your place, right?”

“What? Yeah, I mean…” Buck chews on his bottom lip. Whenever Maddie starts to talk like that, he feels like he’s sitting with a therapist. And suddenly, what he wants to believe are just his antics sounds like food for the shrinks.

“This is supposed to be your partner. Someone to have your back, not stab you in the back,” Maddie points out.

“Rationally, I know all that. It’s just…” He stretches out his legs.

“It’s just what?” she asks in a gentle tone of voice.

“What if he’s better than me?”

What if they realize that he’s expendable after all? What if someone comes along who can do things better than Buck without the attitude? What if he can’t prove his worth anymore because that guy can do it just as well, maybe even better?

“Then I will be glad because that means someone capable is watching out for my baby brother,” Maddie answers, pulling Buck back to the current conversation, not the fictional ones inside his head.

“What if we end up hating each other’s guts?” Buck continues. He had to restrain himself from actually typing a list of all those questions on his phone when his mind went spiraling upon receiving the news. Because that’s what’s been going on ever since Bobby announced. And Buck knows how stupid it is, but his brain didn’t get the memo. There are so many what ifs that it’s making him dizzy thinking about them.

“Then you talk about it like actual adults. And anyway, no one can hate you to your guts. You’re amazing.”

Buck has to fight hard not to blush. “Thanks, but you’re biased because you’re my sister.”

His heart still beats a little faster every time he says those words out loud. Something that comes so light and casual these days, though it isn’t. It is closer to what it should be. Because it should be casual, natural, given.

But apparently, the world didn’t get that memo yet. Seemingly a pattern.

“And as your sister, I’m also always right.”

“Are not.”

“Are too.”

He laughs. She chuckles back.

“Listen,” Maddie continues. “Just be yourself. You’re going to figure it out. This is exciting, Buck. More people to add to your family, okay?”

“Yeah, okay. Thanks,” he croaks.

“I’ll call you during lunch time, unless you’re out on a call. And then I want all the details on the newbie.”

“Alright. Pro tip: Put the bag of pastries in the trunk of your car. Only way to keep your paws off of them while driving.”

“I may actually crawl back, but yeah, it’d require a lot more effort.”

He smiles. “Drive save.”

“Will do.”

“Alright, I’m heading in,” Buck says, pushing away from his car. “Or else I will be running late, too.”

“Love you, little brother.”

“Love you, too. Talk to you later.”

“Bye.”

“Bye.”

Buck hangs up and stuffs his phone back into his pocket.

Maddie is right. There is nothing to be nervous about. He has a team now. No one is leaving. New people are arriving. That’s how it works. That’s normal. And he gets to pester the newbie. So he should really be excited, as Maddie said. Buck knows he should focus on that. On how great this could turn out to be. On having a partner. Someone to have his back. All the time.

He sucks in a deep breath as he comes to stand in front of the door leading inside the fire station.

“The door is not closed,” he mutters with closed eyes, grabbing the handle. Buck pushes inside. He is greeted by the familiar hum of the fire station coming to life. People are talking over coffee, some are still fastening the buttons on their shirts as they make up the stairs.

And there’s no place he’d rather be. Buck knew that the moment he first walked into the station for the first time, and that assessment hasn’t changed since.

Buck makes for the locker rooms to change, not wanting to run late like Maddie. Once changed into his uniform, Buck finds himself a little more at ease. Athena once pointed out that they wear those uniforms as a way of protecting themselves. You take them off after work and leave all the bad behind that you’ve witnessed on a call. For Buck, the other way is just as true, though.

When he puts on that uniform on, he can leave his anxious, knee-bobbing self behind and do something meaningful. Because that’s what he found here, beside the team that means so much to him. He found a purpose. A way of answering a calling that lies far back in a past he can’t and won’t remember. To save lives.

Buck looks at his reflection in the mirror, straightens out the collar, makes sure his hair sits perfectly. His glance lingers on the name tag a moment longer, brushes his fingers over the metal plate, the one thing he can’t fix or straighten out.

But that won’t make me flinch. Ever.

“Buckaroo! Time for coffee and talk! I need new material on that show Denny and you are watching and that you need to update me on, so I don’t have to watch it!”

Buck smiles as he closes the locker to see Hen standing there with two cups of coffee.

“Coming.”

But that fixes a whole lot already.

-------------------

Hen sips her coffee in silence as Bobby goes on about who is doing what for the day. She is glad that she isn’t assigned truck cleaning duty. That’s one of the best things about newbies and probies coming in. They get to do the dirty work for a bit. She had to jump those hoops, too, like everyone did, so it only seems fair.

Chim nudges her in the side, pulling her out of her musings. “Have you seen the newbie yet?”

She nudges him back a bit harder to tell him wordlessly that he is supposed to stop doing that. “If I had, don’t you think I would’ve told you by now?”

“Just saying, being late on the first day is not a good sign.”

“Can I help you with something, Han, Wilson?” Bobby calls out. “Care to share with the rest of the team?”

Buck laughs beside them, earning himself a nudge from Hen. That kid is going places sometimes, but Hen learned to love him fiercely after he stopped being a punk.

Fine, he’s still a punk sometimes, but we got to see there’s a heart of gold underneath all the punk and muscle and hair gel.

He grew on her the way he managed to grow on anyone, even the Captain who doesn’t like to admit that more than anyone around the station. He fired the boy first week in, and it was well-deserved, but he proved capable and kind.

Hen knew she was done for this humanoid golden retriever when she fussed over not having a babysitter for Denny and Buck jumped in after he’d just done a double-shift. She and Karen were still working things out and he just made the room, even though the boy deserved bed more than anyone else. Still, he took Denny to the park, finished homework with him, and got him to go to bed even though the kid is not so much a negotiator as he is a small dictator when it comes to bedtime. Karen and she found Buck passed out, snoring like a lawnmower, a book still in his lap while sitting next to Denny’s bed.

“Nothing, Cap,” Chimney answers. “Just sharing excitement about the newbie.”

“You’ll meet him shortly. He had to pick up his gear first and talk to the higher-ups another time. Once he arrives, you can pester him with questions as I know you will.”

“On it, Cap.”

Bobby rolls his eyes, but then his mind goes back to the clipboard and the rest of the chores yet to be divided among the firefighters on shift. The rest of the morning routine goes without further incident, so the three are soon walking down the stairs to their designated task of checking their stocks on medical equipment.

“Okay. That is a beautiful man,” Chimney says, suddenly stopping in his tracks.

Hen trains her eyes on the dark-haired Latino, putting on a shirt. That should be the newbie, then.

“Where’s the lie? And I like girls.”

“Eddie…,” Buck breathes beside her.

Hen whips her head around at the sound.

“Wait, you know this guy?” Chim asks, but Buck doesn’t say anything. Instead, he starts to walk towards the new guy, or almost staggers, she should rather say. The newbie only takes notice of him when his head pops out from the shirt.

“Buck?”

To Hen, it feels like the two just go in slow motion while the rest of the fire station is crazy and busy as always. As though the whole world disappeared around them.

She can’t make out whatever words may be exchanged between them before the new guy covers the last few steps between them and pulls Buck against him in a tight hug. Shock is written all over his face, but also huge relief. Though Hen honestly wished they stood the other way around, because she would like to know just what expression is flitting across her little golden retriever’s face.

“What on earth is going on here?” Chimney mutters.

“I ain’t got no clue.”

The newbie pulls away, smiling over both ears, both hands deftly resting on Buck’s arms. Even though Hen still can’t see Buck’s face, it seems that the guy is doing all the talking for a change. Then he is hugging him all over again.

“I repeat, what on earth is going on here?”

“Only one way to find out.”

Before they can overcome their paralysis, Buck starts to move, gesturing behind himself. The new guy nods with the brightest of smiles, not once letting go of Buck’s arm as they start to walk towards them.

Her confusion is multiplied by the way Buck carries himself, eyes downcast, looking nothing but nervous.

Did someone exchange the 118’s golden retriever this morning, or what’s going on here?

“... can’t believe we meet again in this place of all places,” she can hear the new guy say as they approach.

“S, same.”

Buck is stuttering. To repeat the repeat: What on earth is going on here?

“We have so much catching up to do.”

“Yeah.”

“Buckaroo?” Hen calls out, or maybe demands. She no longer cares for the details here. She needs to get down to the bottom of this. Fast.

“Oh, sorry, I just… this is Eddie.”

“Hi.”

“Hi Eddie, it is a pleasure meeting you. We will greet you good and proper in only just a moment. Hold the line,” Hen says, before turning her attention back to Buck. “Now to you, Buckaroo. Spill the beans.”

“Yeah,” Chim agrees.

But Buck is not forthcoming. Boy looks like a fish out of the water, his mouth opening and closing without any sounds coming out. This makes the sirens ring inside Hen’s head, not the ones at the station. Because their Buckaroo never stops talking, even when he should sometimes, and even when he wants to stop talking, he will keep talking. So him not finding anything to say may or may not force Mother Hen to have to look after her punk chick here.

“We grew up together,” Eddie says after a pause, still all soft smiles and maybe even softer curls, by the looks of it. Hen will worry about that later, too. “I honestly had no clue he was working at this station, let alone that he was in L.A. Color me surprised. Abuela will not believe this.”

“Abuela?”

“My grandmother. She’s the one who fostered him before…,” Eddie continues, but then stops himself when he notices the look of sheer panic on Buck’s face. “They do not know this.”

Buck shakes his head.

“Dios.”

“Wait, you were in foster care?” Chimney almost cries out.

“In Texas?” Hen adds, her mind still short-circuiting thanks to that input.

“Yeah. I was adopted by the Moores after that.”

Chimney gapes at him. “You were adopted?”

“Yeah.”

“Wait, they don’t know about that either?” Eddie asks, now almost as frantic as they are.

Welcome to the club, hon.

“Now they do,” Buck mutters.

“But Maddie isn’t adopted. I should know.” Chimney lifts his index finger.

“Right,” Hen agrees.

Eddie makes a face. “Who’s Maddie?”

“My girlfriend, Buck’s sister.”

“You have a sister?” Eddie slaps his hand against Buck’s arm, shock taking the place of confusion.

“Wait, you grew up with him and don’t know his sister?”

“It’s a long story,” Buck sighs.

“Like how you’re Texan?” Hen scoffs.

Buck holds up his hands. “Okay, guys, can we stop spiraling for a second?”

Hen opens her mouth to give him a piece of mind, but she’s abruptly cut off by their captain standing at the top of the stairs. “Buck! I could use a hand up here!”

“On my way, Cap!” Buck yells back, the amount of relief to opt out of the conversation more than imminent. “Sorry, duty calls!”

“Hey no,” Chim hisses, but Buck isn’t having it. He pats Eddie on the shoulder. “We’ll talk later, okay?”

“Okay.”

With that, he starts to jog, or rather run, up the stairs. All watch him go, before their eyes fall back on the people standing right in front of them.

Well, if that’s not awkward.

“So, ugh. Hi again,” the new guy says, smiling sheepishly. “Eddie Diaz, your newbie.”

“Hi. Hen Wilson.”

“Howard Han, but you can call me Chimney or Chim. And why I’m called that is between me and God.”

“Okay. That may be only the second most confusing thing to happen on my first day.”

“We don’t normally act like this,” Hen tries to reassure him.

Chim makes a face. “We don’t?”

Hen nudges him in the side hard enough to make Chim gasp.

“Wilson, Han, you’re supposed to get on with the stocks!” someone calls out.

“You’re not our boss!” Chim shouts back at what turns out to be that jackass Lambert from B-roll no one likes because his attitude stinks about as much as his aftershave.

“But Cap is and he told me to tell you to move it!”

“I hate that guy,” Chim grumbles.

“I think I’ll like it here,” Eddie chuckles.

“They are so young and innocent when they join,” Chim snorts.

“Welcome to the 118,” Hen says, giving the younger man’s shoulder a gentle squeeze. “I suppose you should go up there as well and talk to the captain.”

“Alright, I’ll see you around.”

“Most certainly.”

“That was only mildly threatening,” Chim laughs, rolling his eyes well before Hen jabs him another time.

“Good to have you here,” he adds.

“Indeed.”

“Good to be here. See you later.”

“Later,” both say in unison.

Eddie smiles at them before climbing up the stairs.

“You try to get a hold of your boo, I’ll see what info I can squeeze out of Cap or Buck, whoever I get my hands on first.”

“Aren’t we supposed to get on with…”

Hen glowers at him.

“I said nothing.”

“Less talking to me, more talking to your girlfriend.”

Chimney makes a mock salute, before walking away while fiddling with his phone. Hen let’s her gaze wander up to the gallery with a grimace. Something is not right, but she is going to figure it out. Because Hen Wilson keeps all her little chicks on track, even more so now that they got a new one to take care of.

-------------------

Eddie tosses the sponge into the water bucket. Getting some of the crappier chores for the day is something he fully expected to happen. What he didn't expect, not in a million years, was running into Buck. Eddie’s head is still reeling because of it. And for what it seems, the same is true for Buck.

Buck.

To say that he seemed shocked is an understatement. Eddie knows the way Buck expresses panic. He’s grown up making sure the kid breathed instead of keeling over when it hit him, so Eddie knows that this was not just surprise, this was fight-or-flight level panic. Eddie knows by now he was so panicked because his colleagues didn’t know about the fostering or adoption – and he could still kick himself for bringing it up unawares.

He jumped to the conclusion because Buck used to talk about it freely to anyone who asked, especially after he was adopted by the Moores. Because it was his way of signifying to the rest of the world that he’d made it from being abandoned to finding friends and family. So Eddie assumed that Buck wouldn’t act any different around his colleagues.

Far from it!

“Eddie, my friend.”

Eddie nearly jumps when Hen and Chimney materialize next to him.

Speaking of…

“Hi,” he greets them.

“How’re you liking it thus far?”

“The detergents smell not as bad as some others do,” Eddie snorts. “But I’m pretty sure that’s not what you came here to ask me about.”

“Just so that you know, you can tell us anything,” Hen says in that mild tone of voice, though Eddie is pretty sure she only says it this way not to scare him away.

“You are looking for bribing material on Buck, I take?”

“We always appreciate it, but we are more like… trying to get up to speed. Until you came to the station, we didn’t even know he’d been fostered,” Hen answers.

“Or adopted,” Chimney adds.

“In Texas.”

Eddie chews on the inside of his cheek. “Yeah, about that. So he actually found his sister?”

If seeing Buck nearly floored him, hearing about his sister was definitely not adding to Eddie’s calm.

“Yes, she’s my girlfriend. You’ll get to know her soon enough.”

There is a part in Eddie that’s very much relieved to hear that Buck found at least part of his family, but another part of him hurts at the news just as much. Because that means Buck likely learned some very uncomfortable truths about his past that won’t have added to the man’s confidence.

“Back in Texas, we knew nothing about where he came from, including whether he had siblings or not. There was an assumption, but no one could be sure.”

“How old were you by the time your grandmother fostered him?”

“I was eight years old.”

“Eight years old… Buck made it sound like he and Maddie were out of touch like, only by the time she got to know Doug.”

Eddie frowns. “Who’s Doug?”

“No one you want to know.” Chimney shakes his head.

Eddie shakes his head. All of this starts to make less and less sense. Why didn’t Buck tell them about any of this? Why didn’t he when he apparently found his sister? Why are they about as clueless as he is, even though they’ve been working side-by-side with him for how long now?

“We lost sight of each other when the Moores moved away from Texas. So they aren’t around anymore?”

Hen shrugs at that. “Let’s say we’ve never met them, never talked about them, or seen any pictures.”

“Kid arrived here with a travel bag and the will to become a firefighter,” Chimney adds.

Eddie can’t help but smile at that. “That sounds like him.”

“You sound pretty clueless actually, and not gonna lie, that is strangely reassuring,” Chimney snorts.

“I prepared for meeting many new people today. Not my best friend back from childhood.”

“Aw.” Hen clutches her hands in front of her chest.

“I just hope he’s not mad at me.” Eddie grimaces. There is something tugging at his heart, just thinking about it. A memory that goes way back in time. When he thought he’d messed it up with Buck forever and always, but he forgave quicker than Eddie could forgive himself.

“I don’t remember our Buckaroo being capable of keeping grudges for long.”

“Then that hasn’t changed at least,” Eddie sighs.

“I think you two should definitely get something to drink after work, reminiscence about the good old times. Catch up. Report back to us in the morning,” she says, her voice trailing off.

“You are aware that they are childhood friends.”

“But I can be far more intimidating.”

“I think getting something to drink and catch up is actually a good idea,” Eddie ponders. “So thanks.”

“You, I like.”

Eddie grins.

“You still missed a spot, though.”

Eddie chuckles, shaking his head. Buck made some good friends here, for what it seems. And he is more than glad for it. They can surely figure this all out.

-------------------

Waking up this morning, Buck thought his biggest worry would be to sort himself out with regards to the newbie and his standing on the team as a result. While that remains true, he just didn't imagine for one hot second it may be Eddie of all people in the entire universe.

Eddie.

When Buck saw him at the station, he didn’t know how to breathe. Even though he hadn’t seen him in years, he knew instantly, only to know that he suddenly knew nothing anymore. Buck used to think he made his peace never seeing Eddie again after they moved away, but then Eddie was hugging him and all those things Buck made sure to bury deep in the ground started to crawl up through the dirt, scratching at a way too thin surface.

And now he is sitting at a bar, nursing his alcohol free beer – because he doesn’t drink when driving, he has to get people out of cars thanks to that behavior way too often, thank you very much. He is at a bar. With Eddie. His Eddie. Because Eddie invited him to get a beer after the shift, and Buck didn’t know how to say no.

Story of my life, isn’t it?

“… I don’t even know where to begin,” Buck admits after a while of awkward silence spreading between them, wherein both men just started peeling the label off of their bottles of beer.

“Same. I mean, you got a sister.”

“Yeah, ugh, I would have told you that, but Chim is still over the moon with her, so of course he mentioned her before I could. They are cute together, but at the disgusting kind of stage,” Buck ponders.

“I’m just so happy for you that you found your family, Buck.”

He manages a feeble smile. Because Buck knows that Eddie means it, understands it perhaps better than most. Because he had to deal with it growing up, had to deal with Buck dealing it growing up.

“I didn’t really find Maddie. We just… happened to meet again. Like us two did today.”

Eddie blinks at him. “Really?”

Buck nods his head. The universe always had the strangest kind of humor when it came to him.

“She’s a dispatcher now. We talked over dispatch for a while, not knowing who we are to each other. We decided to hang out. As friends. She didn’t know people in the city after she moved there only recently, so we also went to a pub and… we started to talk.”

Déjà-vu much, huh?

“Over time, I told her some stuff about my past and, well, Maddie realized that the timing seemed oddly familiar to the brother she thought had died,” Buck continues. “DNA test confirmed it.”

“I was wondering about that,” Eddie sighs, still trying to process that input for what it seems. “I mean, I really put my foot in it, just blurting out with this.”

Buck holds up his hands. “Eddie, no. You had any reason to believe I had told them. I suppose I’ve been blowing this up out of proportions anyway, so this is really just on me.”

“It’s your choice what you want to share with people about yourself, Buck.”

Buck blinks. Sometimes, he forgets how wise Eddie used to be already at a young age. He was also a dumbass a lot of times, but when it came to talking about Buck’s feelings instead of his own, the guy always knew how to make sense of the chaos and make Buck feel like his feelings weren’t just a tedious affair best ripped off like band-aids.

Eddie always understood Buck, even when he couldn’t understand himself. And Buck wants to think that the same was true the other way around, for as long as it lasted.

“Thanks.”

Eddie smiles at him, sipping from his beer.

“Speaking of, thanks to Maddie I now know my official name,” Buck continues, doing his best to sound jovial. “Evan Buckley.”

“Buck-ley. Well, that explains how you got the name,” Eddie ponders, before tilting his head to the side with a cocked eyebrow. “So do I call you Evan from now on?”

“If you want me to call you Edmundo?”

Eddie narrows his eyes at him. “You wouldn’t dare.”

Buck sniggers. “You should know better than to tempt me.”

“Evan.”

“Edmundo.”

“This sounds all kinds of wrong,” Eddie laughs, shaking his head. “For me, you can only ever be Buck.”

“Which is convenient, because I can only be Buck.”

There was a brief moment in time when Buck considered changing his name, taking on that identity, the one intended. In the end, he dropped the idea for what he hopes to be for good. He doesn’t know who this Evan Buckley was or what he’d be now. He knows what Buck was like growing up. He knows what the guy is up to these days. And while they have their qualms, he’s mostly at peace with Buck.

Even a name tag doesn't change a thing about it.

Because he’s Buck. And thankfully, Eddie sees it the same way. So maybe he’s not entirely crazy for holding on to that, however schizophrenic it may be in the end.

“Anyway, part of the reason why I managed not to let anyone in on this is that Maddie agreed to run with not mentioning it. We just stuck to the part where we lost sight of each other and found one another again when anyone asked. And until now, no one really questioned the timeline.”

“And no one ever made the connection between Buckley and Buck?” Eddie asks.

Buck shakes his head. “Maddie’s married name is Kendall. She considered changing it back to Buckley after she broke up with her scumbag husband. But when she found out what kind of scumbags our parents are, it was out the window. So no one had reason to question the difference in names and just assumed that Maddie’s birth name was Moore, too.”

“I take that there is no good explanation as to how you ended up in Texas, then,” Eddie sighs. Buck can tell that he’s trying to sound casual, soft, but the white-knuckled grip on the beer bottle is an entirely different story.

“No, not really. As far as we understand it, our parents moved across state borders under the pretense to get treatment for me. Then they just dropped me at a fire station and drove back. They told Maddie I died.”

“Why would they do that? Why would anyone’s parents…?” Eddie shakes his head, disbelief settling in. Buck knows the feeling oh too well. When he found out, it didn’t make sense to him at all. But as more details were added, the clearer the bigger picture became, though it turned none the brighter.

Buck looks around, just to be sure none of the 118 was sent here to spy on them. Once he is sure there is really just them, Buck hunches forward in his seat.

“Well, I was a big, fat disappointment, I guess. They had me to save their oldest son, Daniel. He had juvenile leukemia. I was… I was a savior baby. Just that… ugh, I didn’t save him. My guessing is that they never wanted me, so they gave me away after Daniel died. I was just there for spare parts anyway.”

Buck suddenly feels something cold in his neck, only to realize it’s Eddie’s hand gently squeezing it. Buck tenses for a moment, then eases to the familiarity of the touch, suppressing the urge to lean into it like he used to.

“I’m so sorry. I would’ve hoped for something else to come out of this.”

Buck manages a feeble smile. “It’s fine. I got a sister now I never expected to find. That’s great. Over the moon kinda great. And now I also ran back into you, too. So I’m one lucky bastard after all.”

Eddie’s hand lingers for a while, no words spoken and yet all is said between them. And how much Buck missed that. Not having to say things for them to be understood.

Eventually, Eddie’s hand falls on his shoulder, giving it a light pat before returning to his beer. “So we’re still friends after I spilled to your colleagues?”

“I didn’t stop being your friend after you got so mad for me saying that you couldn’t bake for shit, so you covered a balloon stuck to a cardboard box in frosting and told me you’d baked a cake and I cut the thing only for it to explode in my face.”

“To this day one of my proudest achievements when it comes to pranks,” Eddie snorts, breaking out laughing at the memory.

Buck can’t help but laugh along. Many of those memories got stuffed away alongside the ones he’d buried in the ground. He had no reason to unearth them because he chose not to tell anyone. But with Eddie, those things come back to light and they shimmer like gold, even after all those years of packing on dust.

“Laugh it up all you want, I got back at you eventually.”

“Don’t remind me,” Eddie groans. “I got grounded for a month because you led my parents to believe I’d be stupid enough to have a folder for porn on the family’s computer and made a message pop up every time that the folder was overloaded and created a system error.”

“Yeah. That was a masterpiece,” Buck sniggers. “But anyway. If that didn’t cancel our friendship, I think we’re fairly good with all this here.”

“Then I’m glad. When you fled the scene, I got kind of worried.”

Buck shrugs. “You know me. I’m a whirlwind of emotions, so I thought it’d be best if I took the time to cool down.”

“That was definitely not how you went about it before,” Eddie argues.

And Buck can’t argue with that. Back in the day, Buck just let the storms rage, never minding the consequences. On the job, that’s still how he rolls, but it was also how he talked, how he presented himself. After he got to meet the Diaz family, he stopped hiding a lot of things. He screamed when he felt like screaming and he cried when he was sad. He laughed when he was happy. And sometimes he even cried because he was that happy, but he learned that this was okay. Abuela always told him this and he took it to heart.

At least for as long as I could.

“Which is why I’m working on it. But anyway! Enough of me. Tell me about you. How long have you been in L.A.? What got you here?” Buck asks. Judging by the look on Eddie’s face, his transition of topics is not nearly as smooth as he’d want it to be, but Eddie rolls with it anyway.

“I moved here only shortly, for the job,” he says. “Before that, I was working some odd jobs. Before that, Afghanistan.”

Buck winces. “Shit.”

“Yeah, that’s one way of describing it. After I came back home injured, I couldn’t do this anymore. I had to set priorities differently, and somehow… I ended up in L.A.”

“Fresh start.” Buck nods his head. There is still so much to unravel in just those few sentences. Afghanistan. Injury. Priorities. Eddie tends to hide a lot more in his words, even more so when they are scarce. But for what it seems, he will now get the time to dig deeper. Because that is what Buck knows someone has to do in order to understand someone like Eddie Diaz.

“Yeah, exactly.”

“I get that feeling,” Buck says. “Los Angeles is great for that, worked out for Maddie and me, too.”

“We’ll have to drink a lot of beers to catch up on all those years we didn’t hear from each other to wind up having a fresh start in the same city.”

“Then it’s a date.”

Eddie wants to say something, but then his phone vibrates. “Sorry about that.”

Buck holds up his hands. “It’s fine.”

Eddie takes out his phone and checks his messages. Buck can see the instant shift in the other man’s demeanor. He knows that change like the back of his hand, even with years between where they parted ways and now crossed them again. Eddie’s shutting down.

“Hey, uhm, sorry, I gotta head out. It’s urgent,” he says, grabbing his wallet, clearly embarrassed and beat-up for having to leave so suddenly.

Some things don’t change, do they?

“Hey, it’s fine, man. We, ugh, we are stuck together now anyway, right? We’ll find enough time to catch up. It’s a date, after all,” Buck assures him. “Also, you’re not paying for the beer, unless you wanna pick a fight with me. Just go.”

Eddie smiles at him wryly. “Thanks. I’ll pay next round?”

“Sounds like a plan to me. Now off you go.”

“Sorry another time. I really gotta…”

“See you at work!”

“See ya!”

Buck manages to keep up the smile until the door shuts behind Eddie. His shoulders drop and he sucks in a deep breath. He pays for the beers and nearly flies out the door.

He makes for his car and climbs in. Buck realizes only now how badly his hands are shaking. Struggling for breath, he takes out his wallet again and fishes out that one crumpled piece of the past he carries with him whenever he’s not on the job, so to be sure it doesn’t get further damage.

Buck unfolds the faded photograph with shaky hands and presses it against his mouth, breathing hard against it. The tears keep coming, no matter how hard he tries to stop them. They are happy and sad. Desperate and relieved. Everything and nothing. And all that at the same time.

Eddie is back.

Eddie is back in his life, just like that, after the years it took him to accept he’d never see him again. That he’d moved on as he should have.

How do you rip off the band-aid or duct tape for that?

Or maybe that’s just the universe telling him that some things really can’t be fixed.

Because apparently, the universe is still mocking him.

[falcor-thee-luck-dragon]

What a Time to be Alive - Diego Hargreeves x reader Season I

Chapter 5- Number Five

Summary: You finally found Five, drunk, but you found him. Patch is dead. And now you and Diego are on the hunt for the masked killers with assistance from Klaus.

Masterlist - where all the other chapters are⚔️

Tagged: @sambucky8 @white-wolf-buckaroo @2cuteforyourlies @la-vie-en-amour1 @fandomoverlord221 @thatfandombitcch @alonewolfsblog @starrrybarnes @winterboobear11

You burst through your apartment door with a new rage overthrowing your recent grief, Diego’s right on your tail, trying to catch up with you the best he can. Your strides are fast as you march hastily through the small room, heading straight for Five. “You boy scout looking fuck. Do you have any idea what you’ve just caused?” You growl launching yourself at him with fists in the air, without warning Luther catches you before you can really tear into Five. “No! Let me go you fucking monkey boy, get your hands off of me!” You yell at him, as he lifts you up off the ground, “I can do this as long as it takes you to calm down.” Says Luther calmly. You continue to struggle in his strong grasp, seriously contemplating if you’ve lost it enough to bite him before Diego sets a hand on your tense shoulder. Further stopping you before you can find a way to break free by injuring Luther, “Y/N, please.”

You make a lowly animistic sound, like that of a beaten circus tiger, as you stop struggling, “Fine.” Luther then sets you down.

“Now, wanna tell us what you’re talkin’ about?”

You glare at Five, still upset from finding Eudora dead in that motel room. You were gonna have lunch with her on Friday and then explain why Diego’s been so persistent about the shootings. You hadn’t had a chance to talk with her yet. And now you never will.

“Your brother’s been pretty busy since he got back. He was in the middle of that shootout at Giddy’s, and then at Gimble Brothers, after those masked psychos attacked the Academy, looking for him.” You snap, staring daggers at Five.

He barely moves a muscle, “None of which is any of your concern.” He mutters calmly, way to damn calmly for you.

You scowl at him in annoyance, “It is now you little shit. They just killed my friend.” You vent back, stepping in closer, Diego has to grab your arm from tearing into the tiny 58 year old man in front of you.

“Who are they Five?” Questions Luther, breaking the tense atmosphere.

“And where the hell are they from?” Adds Diego, hand still firmly grasping your arm.

Five gives you all a tired look, “They work for my formal employer at the commission. A woman called the Handler. She sent them...to stop me. Then as soon as Y/N and Diego’s friend got in their way, well, fair game.” Five shrugs, so this is just business is business to him.

“Well they’re my fair game now. And I’ll make sure of it that they pay in blood.” You sneer, turning around and walking briskly towards the door, Diego hot on your tail.

“That would be a mistake Diego, for you to let her go.....They’ve killed people far more dangerous then you think.” Calls Five, you stop by the railing to look back at him.

 “I’d like to see them try and kill me then....the next time I see them will be when I drive my dagger into their throats.” You growl with malice, turning away from them to walk out the door.

Luther looks to Diego and then back at Five with a stunned face, “I don’t care what she does. She just better not miss.” Says Five with a sigh, as Diego nods while making towards the open door.

You get into the passenger seat as Diego takes the steering wheel, he turns the car on, turning to look at you, “Are you okay?” He whispers gently. You stare vacantly out the side window, “No. Just drive.” You mumble sadly, you’re trying to be strong but one of your only friends has just been killed violently by two masked psychopaths. It’s a bit difficult if you’re being honest, but you’re too numb with silent fury to cry at the moment.

He nods in understanding, putting the car into drive and taking off.

——

You stand silently in Diego’s doorway at the Umbrella Academy, he pulls out a metal briefcase from under his bed, and opens it up. It’s his old knife case, he then puts his remaining free knifes that are hiding on him in the case. He quickly shuts it and locks it up, leaving it on the floor to stand up and walk over to you. “Do you have anything you need to get before we head out?” He says while holding the sides of your arms. You look up at him, “I am all that I need.” You whisper valiantly, meaning absolutely every word, underlying so much more behind that small sentence.

Your mind flashes back to your younger days when you were fighting alongside with the Umbrella Academy, you had wanted so badly to prove that you belonged among them. Your mindset solely focused on accomplishing the mission successfully, hoping that Reginald would be satisfied with your hard work. Through your attempts, you may have went a little overboard, losing control at times, lashing out furiously on the enemy. You turned into something incredibly dangerous, but at the time all you saw was a warrior, a hero, a vital piece of the Umbrella Academy that could not be held back. You were so lost in your own success and the satisfaction of Sir Reginald that you didn’t notice when the Umbrella Academy was starting to become afraid of you. It was the most lonely and darkest couple weeks of your life that you’d ever felt, and you couldn’t fully understand why they wouldn’t want to play with you. It started on a mission, you’d just discovered that whenever you were completely in full rage mode, your eyes would turn the color of molten lava, a deep orange, perhaps your body’s way of showing off the raging fire within you, or so you’d tell yourself. Quite opposite of your original eye color. You’d never realized it before until Allison pointed it out after an intense mission once. To keep a long story short, you killed a bunch of terrorists who were about to kill your friends. You tore into them wildly, your eyes practically glowing embers. You were breathing heavily and covered in other people’s blood by the time you were done. For a week they wouldn’t even look at you, it took longer for Ben to come around. And you absolutely hated yourself for it. Of course Reginald was ecstatic, mentioning your achievement at dinner one night, of how you unlocked a hidden power within yourself and that the others should strive to do the same. The rest of them fumed in jealousy, deciding to ignore you for awhile as payback, since they couldn’t hurt you physically. And they were to scared about what you could have done back at them. You felt like a caged lioness, a powerful and deadly creature, being taunted and stared at from afar by snotty children who are safe and content behind the thick glass.

But life goes on, and you’ve sacrificed yourself for them a couple hundred times since then, more then they’ll ever be able to repay. With time they began to understand you better, and amazingly to your great surprise Diego, out of all people, had a ginormous crush on you. Which led to even more wonderful things you’re scared little 13 year old self could never have even dreamed of. You got older, stopping caring about Reginald’s approval, and moved on with your life. Things got much better after that.

Your wandering mind comes back to reality when Diego kisses your forehead, he understands your somber silence, choosing to comfort you in the best way he possibly can. He releases you, turning to pick up his silver briefcase as you take a step out the door. Waiting a brief moment for your vigilante lover to catch up with you.

As you walk down the stairs and across the messy carpet past the damaged fallen chandelier. You notice Klaus who’s standing by the broken crushed table, he looks a bit lost and out of it. Oddly enough it’s not from any alcohol consumption or other substances. At least that you can smell, he’s clean.

“What happened here?” Klaus asks curiously, you look over to him with a casual shrug.

“Long story.” You add, not really wanting to get into details right now.

“You look like shit.” Diego tells him dryly.

“Why, thank you. Hey, where are you two going?” Wonders Klaus, watching the two of you head for the door. “Nope.” Snaps Diego quickly, Klaus’ face falls at his denied request.

“I’m not giving you a ride.” Grumbles Diego, who’s stopped walking to look at Klaus. 

“Oh, come on, man. You know I can’t drive.” He whines, moving in closer to Diego. You stand with your arms crossed by the fallen chandelier, patiently watching the brotherly interaction between the two of them, who’re directly in front of you.

Diego shakes his head, “I don’t c..” You suddenly cut him off, “Go get your shit. We’ll be in the car.” Klaus’ face breaks out into a grateful smile, he laughs lightly before patting Diego on the chest, turning to get his things. “Okay, great. I’ll just get my things. Two minutes.” He says happily, rushing past you with a grin to get whatever it is that Klaus needs.

Diego turns around to give you a what-the-hell kinda look, you casually shrug, “He said two minutes.....and he looks like he could use some friendly interaction.” Diego just sighs, nodding in agreement, “Yeah alright...but only because you’ll be with me.” He replies, before turning towards the door.

You smack his bum as you scoot past him, “It’ll be fun, just like old times.” You quip while Diego shakes his head in amusement, following you out the door.

——

You’re comfortably sprawled out in the backseat, feeling the dull roll of the car moving speedily down the road, while you listen to the hum of the engine. Diego drives, as Klaus drinks from a wine bottle, looking dismally out the window. “You okay?” Diego says after a quiet couple minutes, not getting anything from Klaus, who takes another swig. “Wow. This is a first. My brother Klaus is silent. How bout’ that Y/N.” Diego glances at Klaus again, “Last time you were this quiet, we were 12. Ran down the stairs wearing Grace’s heels, tripped over, and broke your jaw. How long was it wired shut again?” He wonders.

“Eight weeks.” Whispers Klaus tiredly, still staring out the window.

“Eight glorious weeks of bliss.” Smiles Diego, you sit up sticking your head between the two of them. “And I missed out on it all, damn.” You mutter, trying to mentally visualize the whole scenario. Klaus suddenly lifts his head up, “Hey, just....just drop me off here.” Diego nods, you look across the street at the building in mind, Lakeshore VFW, but that’s where the veterans go? None of you have ever been in the army, at least that you know of.

Diego pulls into the small parking lot, Klaus jumping out as soon as he stops, now you’re very confused. “You sure you’re all good, Klaus?” You call after him, he ignores you as he nervously walks up to the door, opening it and walking inside. You look over to Diego who’s equally as puzzled, he turns around about to start the car again. When you instantly reach your hand out to touch his shoulder, “Wait, I’m gonna go in and see what’s up with Klaus.” Diego stops, turning his neck to look at you, “I guess I better go in too. Not that you couldn’t handle yourself Y/N...I mean Klaus probably needs me an...” 

“Diego.” You deadpan, shutting him up instantly. He takes the keys out of the ignition, as you open up your door, Diego doing the same. The two of you then start walking towards the entrance, clueless as to why Klaus would have wanted to stop here.

You walk in, finding him moping around some old WWll photographs, you sigh, beginning to walk over to Klaus, Diego right behind you. Throwing a hand on Klaus’ shoulder you unintentionally startle him, “Just go away, please.” He asks you, while rubbing his eyes. You let go of his shoulder, half-sitting yourself against the pool table, Diego steps up next to him, “Not until you talk to us.”

“Is that a threat? You threatening me?” He mutters, annoyed that you two won’t leave him alone. Suddenly a random guy to your left walks up to the three of you, “Guys. This bar? It’s for vets only.” He states, urging you all to leave.

“I am a vet.” Says Klaus, by the way he announces it, you can sense he’s not lying. But how would he have been a vet. Something wrong definitely happened in that whole day he was missing.

The veteran chuckles, not believing him in the slightest, “Really? Where’d you serve?” He says amused, glancing back at his friends. “None of your business.” Snaps Klaus defensively. The grumpy vet starts to lose his humor, and apparently his temper too. His face falling, “You got balls comin’ in here, pretendin’ you’re one of us.” You glance at Diego, who gives you a what-is-even-happening, look. Klaus turns around, “Oh, I have every right to be here, just like you. Asshole.” He says growling the last word. Shit. The large and pissed off vet takes a step closer, you step in front of Klaus, raising your hands up to stop him, “Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. Easy now, soldier. All right? My friend here has had one too many.” You look to his friends beginning to gather around behind him, then back to him, “Let’s just call it a day, all go our own way. No harm done.” You tell him, doing your best to reason with him and get out of here without a brawl. “Sure thing.” He says bluntly, but you’re unconvinced. “Thank you.” You answer anyway, trying to move things along, you turn to Klaus and Diego, “Let’s go..” “As long as you apologize.” Interrupts the vet, Klaus looks back at the photographs giggling to himself. You give Diego a defeated look, as you turn around to face the vet again. “Fine. I’m sorry. He’s sorry. We’re all sorry. So...are we good?” You tell him, restraining a sour tone the best you can physically muster. He looks at you, pointing to Klaus, “I wanna hear him say it.”

“Hey, man. I’m just trying to..” “No, no. He’s right Y/N. He‘s right. He’s right.” Interrupts Klaus, turning around to face the angry vet and his buddies. “I’d like to apologize...that you...are depriving some village of their idiot!” Growls Klaus, this not sitting very well with the vet. He swings at Klaus but misses when Klaus swiftly ducks, standing up again to head butt the guy. The guy staggers back, his buddy throwing a fist up to catch Klaus across the head. But before he has a chance Diego rushes in, deflecting the punch and kneeing the guy in the stomach. “Seriously.” You groan at all of them. Klaus running past you to jump on the back of another random guy who’s ready to fight.

You roll your eyes, men. Deciding enough is enough you spring into action, it only takes you about 10 seconds before they’re all groaning in pain on the ground, dazed as to how you just took them all out so fast. You stand near the exit, adjusting your jacket. “Let’s go. Right fucking now.” You snarl at Diego and Klaus, who instantly get up off the floor, making a beeline for the door.

——

You’re sitting in the backseat of Diego’s car, him at the steering wheel and Klaus in the passenger seat. Your little trio parked across the street from Giddy’s Donuts. “You got a big mouth, you know that?” States Diego, referring to Klaus’ jabs at that old grumpy vet. “Oh, wow. What a truly shocking revelation, Diego.” Mumbles Klaus unamused, as he goes to open up a bag of pills. “Everything’s a big joke to you, right? Would you stop it?” Diego yells, grabbing the pill bag out of Klaus’ hands. “Why are you putting this shit in your body?” Interrogates Diego, not being able to understand why his brother always does this over and over again.

Klaus blows a raspberry into the air, in frustrated defeat. “Check this out Hmm?” Says Diego as he lifts up his black sweater, where he then pats his toned stomach. “My body is a temple. All that shit you do, it’s just weakness.”He states. You lean up closer in between the two of them.

 “That’s so inspirational.” You add sarcastically, earning a small snort form Klaus.

 “Well weakness feels so good.” Klaus then reaches his hand up to take a pill, Diego reacting fast as he smacks it out of his hand.

 “What’s going on with you? Huh?”

“Don’t hit me asshole!” Yells Klaus, you just sit back and watch the show, Diego leaning in closer as he jabs a finger at him, “Don’t tell me everything is all right, because I saw you in there. You were crying like a baby!” Explains Diego loudly, you covering your ears a bit at his explosion. “Because I lost someone.” Barks Klaus, who looks down at his hands, sighing sadly, “I lost someone. The only...The only person I ever truly loved more then myself.” You sit up again, looking between the two of them. Diego looks out the front window with a puzzled look on his face, not expecting that answer. Klaus just gives you a sad smile, “Cheers.” He says, popping a colorful pill in his mouth.

“Well you’re luckier then most. At least you can still see them...when they....yeah.” You whisper quietly, thinking about your parents and Patch. You lean back into the backseat, turning your head left to look out the window. Diego turns his neck to look at you, about to say something before he catches sight of Hazel through the back window, who’s breaking into a car. “That’s our guy.” You sit up, turning around to see for yourself, “Huh. No shit.”

“Hey, I know that guy.” Adds Klaus, watching Hazel through the side mirror. “How could you possibly know that...” Begins Diego.

 “He and a really angry lady tortured me. I barely got out with my life.” Explains Klaus, revealing a heavy part that you missed. You furrow your brows frowning, “Cha-Cha.” You mutter quietly to yourself. These psychos are dead. Diego abruptly starts the engine, pulling out to follow Hazel to wherever he’s going next. And so the hunt begins.

——

The three of you sit in the car, outside of the crappy motel that Hazel unknowingly lead you to. Klaus is sipping on his bottle of wine, while Diego scans the area, you watching the motel windows closely. You suddenly spot movement coming from the blinds of one on the upper floor, on closer inspection it’s a woman, looking incredibly familiar, that must be Cha-Cha. “Bingo.”

 Diego looks up, catching a flash of her hand, as the curtains conceal the rest of her. You get out of the car and wait for Diego as he takes out a knife, Klaus just looking at you two bored, “You know killing these people is not gonna make you feel any better, Y/N.” Adds Klaus. You stop for a second to think about why you’re doing this. Diego’s here to avenge a friend, but you’ve kinda been leading the charge this whole time. After all, you were closer friends with Patch then Diego was, and you also know that these fuckers have murdered countless other innocents. They must die, and you’re the best person to do it.

You lean down by the window to look at Klaus, “They killed my friend and countless other innocent people, kill one save a thousand.” You growl, standing back up at the sound of a door opening. You look up, watching as Hazel walks out the door and down the hallway, out of sight. You quickly follow, leaving Diego and Klaus to argue about something from behind you.

Turning a corner, you silently walk up the metal steps to the second floor, Diego practically materializing behind you, daggers out and ready to fight. You both reach the top, but before any of you have time to move Klaus walks up, “So, what exactly is the plan here, you two lovers in crime...fighting?” Muses Klaus, making it to the top steps. “I told you to wait in the car.” Grumbles Diego who gives you a look, “Yeah, but you also told me that licking a nine-volt battery would give me pubes.” You raise an eyebrow at Diego, “We were eight.” Klaus just looks up at Diego giving a shrug as he takes a couple steps. Diego grabs is arm, stopping him quickly as he pulls him down the steps, you’re watching this half annoyed and half holding in laughter. Diego then races back up the stairs, giving you a confident nod as he turns towards the blue motel door. Giving it a hard kick, the door swings open, revealing nothing on the inside but a tv blaring loudly with some western cowboy movie on. “Very subtle.” You quip, slightly irked at how less then clever his surprise ambush was. You turn to the right, looking down at the parking lot as you unexpectedly hear the scratching of tires on pavement. What the hell?

You move towards the railing as a blue car comes speeding into view, with Hazel and Cha-Cha in their familiar get up of Halloween masks and guns. That are now shooting deadly bullets at you and Diego, oh shit Diego. Without warning a bullet rips into your right upper shoulder where your arm and torso meet. A second slicing just below your bellybutton. Diego grabs at you, hauling you backwards as another bullets clips him in the forearm. To your great surprise, Klaus pulls the both of you back even further, evidently helping the two of you avoid getting shot again.

“Oh, man. See? Used to think I was an idiot?” Sasses Klaus at a panting Diego.

 “I still think you’re an idiot.” He claps back, holding onto his left arm, where the bullet went through.

 You on the other hand are leaning against the staircase railing, sucking in pained breaths as you slowly feel the bullets getting pushes out of you. The flesh beginning to fuse back together once again, Diego and Klaus finally look over to you. “Y/N, you alright?” Wonders Klaus. You glare up at him still grimacing in pain, “No.” You wheeze, shutting your eyes tight, as both bullets are being forced out of you by the rapid healing process, ultimately at long last they drop to the floor, making a ringing sound as they hit the metal staircase. You stand up straight once again, your eyes going wide in realization, “They’re getting away!” You blurt out, racing down the steps, Diego and Klaus hot on your heels. When the three of you make it back to Diego’s car, you notice how the front tire is completely flat. You all groan in frustration, now what? “Was this all part of your master plan?” Doubts Klaus, miffed that no one has a ride now. “Shut up.” Snaps Diego, looking around for something that could assist in the matter.

You look up to the sky, putting your hands on your hips, “Fucking fuck.” You whine loudly to the sky or birds or whoever would listen, snapping your head back down, your eyes land on the large ice cream truck. Parked ever so sweetly and conveniently in front of you. With a new idea fresh in your mind you walk past Diego and Klaus, stopping in front of the white and cutely designed truck. “I found our ride.”

They turn to look at you, Klaus smiling in excitement as Diego’s face falls. “I’ll drive.” Blurts out an ecstatic Klaus.

——

Sticking your head out the window you catch the scent of Hazel and Cha-Cha, they smell of gun powder, fast food, and death. So it wasn’t exactly that difficult to get on their trail. Gosh I’m just like a frickin bloodhound, you think. You sit on the right side while Klaus drives, Diego slumped in the middle seat, putting pressure on his wound. Why you let Klaus drive? You’re pretty sure you have some bullet fragments still stuck in your shoulder, no you definitely do. Why else would it still feel sore, damn you’re gonna have to take those out later.

Now that you look at your surroundings, there’s nothing but trees and farm fields. Plus Luther and Five, standing next to a parked car on the road, while Hazel and Cha-Cha point guns at you from further down the road. Shit. You hold on tight as Klaus manically laughs while plowing into the two assassins. Everything happens so fast and the next second you’re jostled again when the ice cream truck rams right into their getaway car. You smack your head off the window, cracking the glass, as Diego gets shoved into the dashboard. “Fuck.” You seethe through clenched teeth, bringing your hand up to touch the spot on your head. No blood is felt to your great relief and now the pain is gone, unlike Diego who’s clutching his injured arm in pain.

You hear Klaus yelling for you two to get out, not wanting to wait for Diego’s slow ass to make it out of the truck. You kick your door open, breaking the lock in the process, oh well. Not dwelling on the matter, you book it to the other side where Luther and Klaus are holding up Diego as they start running for Luther’s car, without a second thought you follow them, not caring enough to bother with either Hazel or Cha-Cha. You’ll get your chance, the safety of your family is way more important at the moment.

You run around to the passenger side of Luther’s car, Klaus and Diego taking the back, as Luther gets into the drivers seat, hitting the gas and flooring it.

[satashiiwrites]

Since I posted the next chapter of Outlaw, here’s a snippet from the fic that’s preoccupying my thoughts. I may also be listening to too much Jack Johnson. 

I need a vacay so bad.... preferably a beach one. 

From Family, Familia, ‘Ohana, Chapter Two: Options and Interventions. 911/Hawaii 5-0 crossover, Buddie, McDanno. Navy Seal Evan “Buck” Buckley. 

Warnings: rough draft, Buck POV. Swearing. 

The smell of coffee cut through his internal musings and he realized he’d been silent a bit too long.  Steve’s look of amusement as he held out the cup of coffee made Buck duck his head.  He took the proffered cup without comment, the hot scalding liquid with the slight oily edge to it from the added butter—bulletproof coffee, a seal team staple. He hadn’t had his coffee this way in years and the memory of Steve and Freddie introducing him to it caused another sharp pain in his chest. 

He’d missed the camaraderie of his team so much—he’d thought he’d found it at the 118 but it had proven to not be the same. 

“You know it’s okay to not be okay, right?  Danno is always telling me that,” Steve said hesitantly as he took a seat on the edge of the couch cushions next to Buck’s feet. The older man stared into his own coffee cup, giving Buck time to gather his thoughts but was watching him out of the corner of his eye.  This version of his commander being father-like made Buck miss what his relationship used to be with Bobby which, in retrospect, he realized he may have used to replace Steve and Freddie’s presence in his life. 

God—he’d replicated his old seal team at the 118.  Bobby was a mishmash of Steve and Freddie while Athena was definitely more like Freddie in his life. Hen was the male version of their old medic—who’d only ever responded to Doc—and Chim reminded him of  Red who’d been his spotter—always giving him shit about his aim like a big brother and getting into trouble with Buck that Steve claimed was giving him gray hair. 

His Buck 1.0 life had been a response to being cut free from the team and needing the physical affection that he’d gotten used to after his relatively touch-free childhood and the only appropriate thing for a single adult non-military male was to date.  You didn’t crowd in next to one another like you would in a fox hole in enemy territory or curl up for warmth like he’d done in multiple countries he couldn’t tell anyone he’d been in because it was classified forty ways from Sunday. Steve and Freddie had introduced casual familiar touch into his life and he’d been starved for it—no wonder he’d gone off the deep end as Buck 1.0. 

“I know,” he finally answered Steve. “It’s just... life.  Gotta live with your choices, right?”

Steve’s hand settled on his bad ankle, the touch like a hot brand as the fingers curled around it and felt the surgical scars that seemed hypersensitive all of the sudden. “Kid.”

He wasn’t going to cry.  He knew he must have cried last night if it wasn’t a dream—and he still wasn’t clear exactly how much of what he remembered had actually happened. “I made my bed and I’m going to have to lie in it.”  He took a sip of his coffee to avoid looking at Steve.

“Evan.” Shit.  He was in first name territory. Steve never called him by his first name unless he was in deep trouble.  It was always Kid, Buck, Buckaroo, Bucky or any of another half dozen nicknames that Buck got called by but never his given first name. 

“I mean does it suck that I hurt my leg? Yeah it does. But I’m back to work so it’s all better. Just a few bumps in the road like a blood clot and—“ he picked up steam as he talked, trying to steamroll any objection Steve would have.

“Blood clot? What blood clot?” 

Shit shit SHIT. 

Steve hadn’t known about the PE. 

Buck fiddled with his coffee cup. “I had a pulmonary embolism—a PE.  I’m on blood thinners.”

There was a brief pause and Buck dared to look up at Steve who was looking right at him, concern etched on his face. “Okay... I know enough to know those are bad.  But you were cleared to go back to work?”

“I was.  I just have to be careful—no cuts or anything cause I bleed a lot more than I used to on the meds.”  Buck tried to reassure Steve but he could see the same worries that Bobby had expressed crossing Steve’s mind. Steve was going to see him as a liability—same as Bobby.

Steve tilted his head as he processed the information. “So you just have to be careful?”

Relieved, Buck nodded. “Yes.  Just have to be careful. It’s not really that big of a deal.”

The hand rubbing up and down on his ankle was a huge distraction. It was warm and soothing. He didn’t want Steve to stop. 

He felt pathetic for that thought but he didn’t ask for Steve to stop or pull away. 

“Is the blood thinners a forever thing?”

“I don’t know.  I have to get regular check ups and they decide if they want me to keep on them at each one.”  The doc had been hopeful that eventually he could stop them—that they wouldn’t be for the rest of his life. Truthfully, he had been dreading the answer the last two check ups he’d had.  So far he’d had to keep on them.

The muscle in Steve’s jaw jumped as he clenched it in thought. “So you can work—do all the stuff you need to do?”

“Yeah.  I mean,” Buck huffed in frustration, “when they let me go on calls I don’t have any restrictions according to my doc.”

Steve looked at him sharply. “When they let you go on calls?”

Shit.  He was slipping and giving Steve more ammunition. Backpedaling, he waved his hands to try and distract Steve and almost spilled hot coffee all over himself. “I mean I go on calls—“

“Just not very many of them.  They’re leaving you behind,” Steve drew an accurate conclusion with a bare minimum of facts and suppositions. Buck knew that Steve would understand how much being left behind hurt. And it wasn’t necessary—Buck was cleared for duty. He just needed to stay away from sharp objects when able. It wasn’t that big of a deal.... really. 

He absolutely hated being left behind. Being excluded. He didn’t feel like part of the team most days anymore. Steve couldn’t learn about how he’d also become a social pariah amongst the members of the 118. That would be one disappointment too many to reveal. 

“I go out on calls,” Buck added, defensively and took a gulp of his coffee that was still on the too hot side of things. Maybe if he just drowned himself in his coffee he’d be able to stop spilling his guts to Steve. 

[whtaft]

7 and stucky please :)?

Joining them at a family reunion.

“Is it weird that I was sent an invitation to the Barnes family reunion?” Steve asks, holding the invitation in his hand. The invitation is in Comic Sans. If they were going to invite him anyway, Steve would have been happy to help design the invitation using some font other than Comic Sans.

“No,” Bucky says. He’s sitting on their kitchen island, feet dangling. His left sock has a hole, so his big toe sticks out. “You’re pretty much family.”

“Except for the fact that I’m—“

“Bah,” Bucky interrupts. It’s a favorite phrase of his mom’s. “Just come! It’ll be fun. All the aunts will bring casseroles. It will be a veritable cornucopia of casseroles.”

“Well, when you sell it like that…” Steve says, leaning on the kitchen counter across from Bucky. Bucky stretches his leg and pokes Steve in the stomach with his unsocked toe. Gross. Also cute. Kind of like Bucky. Steve swats his foot away. “Fine, fine. I’ll come try the casseroles with you.”

“Who says I’m going?” Bucky asks.

Steve raises an eyebrow. “You better be.”

Bucky laughs. “Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

— —

There are thirteen different casseroles.

“I told you,” Bucky mutters, serving himself a small piece of Aunt Esther’s hamburger surprise casserole. Each dish has a little placard in front of it, with its name, who brought it, whether it’s kosher and, if it is, whether it’s meat, dairy, or neither. Only a few of the relatives still keep kosher, but it’s a family tradition, and the Barnes family loves their family traditions. They’re at the not-kosher table because, in Bucky’s words, he lives dangerously.

Steve mostly cares about getting some of Bucky’s mom’s kugel, but since there’s a crowd over at the dairy table, he settles for Aunt Zelda’s fiesta chicken casserole. It is a poor substitute.

As they walk through the buffet, Bucky is accosted by various family members, who hug him, pinch his cheeks, and pat his head. Steve has to reach over and wipe a splotch of pink lipstick off of his cheek, left by an over-enthusiastic second cousin.

“Oh no,” Bucky says as Steve gets the last of the lipstick off. “Incoming,” he mutters to Steve, just as they’re accosted by Drunk Uncle Josh.

It’s not so much that Drunk Uncle Josh is actually a drunk. It’s just that he has the habit of over imbibing solely at family gatherings of any kind. His wife, Aunt Lola, swears that he almost never drinks at home except, on their anniversary, he’ll treat himself to a glass of champagne.

No one really knows why Drunk Uncle Josh loses his inhibitions at family gatherings. It’s one of five (5) Barnes family secrets.

Steve has only met Drunk Uncle Josh twice:

First, at the last Barnes Family Reunion, held ten years ago, when they were fifteen. That was when Drunk Uncle Josh loudly outed Bucky to the family, hugging him and announcing that he “LOVES HIS GAY NEPHEW.”

That was never in question. Everyone loves Bucky. Bucky just wanted to tell people on his own time, though he took it in stride.

Still makes him wary of Drunk Uncle Josh, though.

The second time Steve met Drunk Uncle Josh was at one of Bucky’s cousin’s bat mitzvah’s two years ago.

That’s when Drunk Uncle Josh put an arm around Steve’s shoulders and said, “You should just kiss him, since you love him so much.”

Needless to say, it is dangerous for both of them to be around Drunk Uncle Josh.

“Boys!” Drunk Uncle Josh yells, grinning, arms wide. He has tumbler of something or another in one of those hands. Steve would not have worn white today.

He goes for Bucky first, giving him a big hug and a kiss on the cheek. At least he’s not wearing lipstick.

Then he looks to Steve.

“Finally locked this one down, huh Buckaroo?” he says, giving Bucky a hearty pat on the back as he, God, winks at Steve.

“What, Uncle Josh?” Bucky asks, voice getting oddly high.

“You know, I won’t forget the last time we were together—“

“Uncle Josh—“

“When you had all those martinis and you—“

“Please—“

“You started crying because Steve didn’t love you!”

There’s a beat.

“Steve,” Bucky says, looking towards Steve, still trapped in Drunk Uncle Josh’s happy embrace.

“You love me?” Steve asks, heart beating a little faster.

“Oh, have you not exchanged the l-word yet?” Drunk Uncle Josh asks. “Guess the cat’s outta the bag there, too, but Steve told me he loved you two years ago, so I think you’re fine.”

There’s another beat.

“You love me?” Bucky asks, eyes wide.

“Well…” May as well go all in, right? “Yeah.”

“Oh,” Bucky says, and because he’s just as stupid as Steve is, he says, “Me too.”

“Something’s happening here,” Drunk Uncle Josh says, looking between them. “You need some space?”

“Sure,” Bucky says, taking a step closer to Steve when Drunk Uncle Josh lets him out of his embrace. He can’t stop smiling. “So you wanna join the Barnes family for real?” he asks, and both of them know it’s a joke, but Steve already thinks… yes. Someday.

— —

And Drunk Uncle Josh walks away, taking a sip of his ginger ale. He promised Aunt Lola he wouldn’t drink tonight, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t love the drama.

It’s one of the Barnes family traditions.