#there are thoughts about Maus in this here brain that should never see the light of day

[cycwrites]

Switching Gears Part 5 - Truce

Words: 11,400ish

Rating: M (Eventually)

As always, my undying gratitude to @tiny-maus-boots for never giving up on me even if I take 3 weeks to sit down and finish a chapter.

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Also on AO3 and FFN

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~A~

On Saturday a week later, Aubrey decided to take the short two block walk from Stretch to her favorite juice bar. She had just stepped onto the sidewalk after crossing the street when she saw people pointing. She took out one of her earbuds but as she turned to find out what the hell was going on there was a loud rumbling sound growing from her left, which was the direction people had been pointing. She looked up and saw a crowd of kids on skateboards about to hit her. Jerking backward to avoid being run over - the mass of teens taking up all available sidewalk space - she stumbled off the curb and felt a flare of pain from her left ankle. Pinwheeling her arms she tried to maintain her balance but her ankle didn't want to support her weight and she prepared herself to fall ass over teakettle into the street.

“Look out!” There was a clatter and a yell to her right and then she found herself caught and cradled securely and protectively against someone's chest just as a semi-truck drove behind them, close enough that Aubrey’s hair fluttered in the breeze.

“Holy shit!” Aubrey's heart raced in her chest, stuttering every time she realized that if she'd fallen into the street there was no fucking way the truck could have stopped in time.

“Oh my god, are you okay?” The arms around her were gentle and showed no sign of letting go before Aubrey was ready, so she took a moment longer to take stock of what had just happened, wondering whose heart was beating harder, her own or that of her rescuer.

“I think so?” Aubrey gingerly rotated her foot and hissed out a breath. “Except I think I sprained my ankle.”

“Here, let me help you up on the curb.” By the quickness of breath and shake to their words Aubrey knew her rescuer was just as freaked out as she was. “Nice and easy.”

Gingerly Aubrey hopped on the curb, holding her leg up to avoid the natural instinct to walk on it. Strong hands braced against her waist until she found her balance against a nearby mailbox. “Thanks.” She awkwardly turned around and stopped in shock as she came face to face with the brunette bell thief. “You.”

A wry smile curved the other woman's mouth. “Me.” She lifted her sunglasses to rest on her head and Aubrey felt a sense of deja vu, except her expression this time wasn't condescending but full of genuine concern. “Can I trust you to not try and hop away while I go get my bike?” She nodded at the juice bar two storefronts away. “We can take one of the tables outside and see how bad it is.” She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “See if they serve anything alcoholic on the side.”

Aubrey blinked, her brain still scrambled from the near death experience. “I…” she licked her lips, fright having dried her mouth. “Yes.” She hesitated. “Thank you.”

The tall brunette walked back to her bike which was laying half on the curb and half in the street. Lifting it easily to the sidewalk, she walked it over to Aubrey who was still staring at her.

“I can't believe what just happened.” Aubrey paused. “What actually did happen?” She still felt like she was in a dream that she could not wake up from.

“You almost got mowed down by a group of tweens who need a good ass kicking. Then you almost got mowed down by a truck.” She eyed Aubrey. “Are you going to punch me if I put my arm around your waist?”

“What?” Aubrey blinked. “Why would you - oh.” She half laughed. “To help me to the table. Right. Sorry, still out of it.” She shook her head. “I think saving me from being run over is more than enough reason to declare a timeout.”

“Okay, then here we go.” Her arm gently circled Aubrey’s waist while her other hand kept hold of her bike. “We’ll go slow.”

After putting an arm around the other woman’s shoulders, Aubrey hopped tentatively, finding it was easy to move forward with her support. The two of them made their way to the juice bar and Aubrey gratefully settled into a seat at one of their outdoor tables. She was painfully aware of the eyes on them and had already waved away other people who offered to help. It was bad enough that her erstwhile nemesis had seen her trip over her own feet much less be the one to literally save her life. Aubrey couldn't believe the last ten minutes weren't a nightmare.

She lifted the strap of her messenger bag over her head and let it rest in the chair beside her, watching as her rescuer walked her bike over to chain it to a nearby telephone pole. Coming back she pulled another chair in front of Aubrey. “Okay, gimme your leg.” She wiggled her fingers and Aubrey hesitated, eyeing her narrowly. “Oh come on.” The brunette let out an exasperated sigh when she didn't move. “Damnit Aubrey, stop being so stubborn. I’m not going to hurt you.”

Aubrey pressed back into her seat. “How do you know my name?” She took a quick breath and let it out in a hissing whisper. “Are you stalking me?” Anger was better than the sick feeling roiling in her stomach every time she thought of the semi rushing behind them.

“Oh for the love of…” the other woman trailed off and ran one hand through her hair. “No. I'm not stalking you.” She paused and took a deep breath, obviously pushing back frustration. “I'm friends with the owner of Stretch It Out and she told me your name when she watched the video feed of… the day we first met.” One dark eyebrow went up and Aubrey straightened defiantly despite wanting to squirm a little.

It was one thing when the feud was just between them but knowing that Chloe was aware of their petty actions made Aubrey feel incredibly childish. “Oh.” She cleared her throat. “My mistake.”

“Mmhm.” She held out her left hand again but her lips twitched like she wanted to smile. “Leg?”

Slowly Aubrey extended her left leg, surprised when the grip around her calf was gentle and not the rough handling she'd half expected from someone she'd had a silent war with for the past few months.

“Can’t tell if it’s bruising yet under your sock, but it’s definitely swelling.” With a light but sure touch fingers gently probed at her ankle, stopping just this side of agonizing every time Aubrey hissed out a breath. “Stacie, by the way.” She looked up and met Aubrey's confused look. “My name.” She smiled a little. “So you can call me something other than what you probably do in your head.”

Aubrey felt herself blush. ‘Mother would send me to my room without supper for forgetting my manners. For a week.’ She cleared her throat again. “Sorry. I’m still a little shaken.”

“Understandable.” Stacie looked back down and gently tried to rotate Aubrey’s foot. “Any cramping or muscle spasms?”

Aubrey forced herself to relax as she became aware she’d been clutching the seat of the chair with both hands. “No, I don’t think so.”

“Good.” She ran her fingers over Aubrey’s ankle once more and then scooted forward a few inches to let Aubrey’s calf rest on her knee. “I think it’s a strain though, not a sprain. Depending on how much you can keep it elevated and iced, it should heal in a few weeks.”

Aubrey wanted to pull her leg back but it really did feel better up. “How can you be sure?”

There was a moment of hesitation. “I’m a physical therapist.” Stacie nodded at Aubrey’s foot. “I’ve seen hundreds of these.” She pursed her lips. “Of course, it might not be a bad idea to maybe see your doctor, just to be safe. Make sure nothing is actually torn.”

Aubrey blew out a breath, glad when this one finally didn’t shake. “I’ve had a tear – back in college – and it doesn’t feel the same.” She tried a smile but it didn’t feel like it fit on her face yet. “This pain isn’t as sharp or as deep.”

Stacie nodded. “Good. It didn’t look like you twisted it too badly as you went off the curb but if you start to get cramps or spasms, go see your doctor.” They both looked up as one of the employee’s came out from the juice bar and Stacie spoke first. “Sorry we’re taking your seats, I promise we’re going to buy something-“

“Don’t even worry about it,” the woman interrupted, holding out her hand. In it was a large Ziploc bag half full of ice and wrapped in a towel. “We saw what happened and wanted to make sure you were both okay.” Eyes wide, she handed the bag over when Stacie reached for it. “I’ve never seen someone move so fast.”

Aubrey braced for both the cold and the pain as Stacie placed the baggie over her ankle, making sure it covered the top and sides. “What do you mean?” The woman, whose name tag read ‘Kylen’ looked back at Aubrey.

“We saw her,” she nodded at Stacie, “fly off her bike at practically full speed and take off toward you at a dead run before it had even landed on the curb. I honestly thought there was no way she would reach you and you’d both end up getting run over.” Kylen frowned toward the street. “I wish they’d change the speed limit through here.”

“Me too,” Aubrey muttered, the surreal sensation of falling and being caught coming back to her. “Thank you for the ice.”

“But don’t you guys worry about buying anything.” Kylen jerked a thumb over her shoulder. “And if you need anything else, just wave.” Aubrey nodded and the woman turned and walked back inside, calling over her shoulder. “Just bring the towel back and we’re even.”

Aubrey waited until they were alone again, ignoring the stares of people passing by them. “You ditched your bike?”  She watched Stacie adjust the towel a few centimeters.

“I heard the semi behind me at the same time I saw you step up on the sidewalk - which was about two seconds after I saw the skateboarders.” She fidgeted with the towel again, not looking up. “I knew there was no way I’d be able to keep my balance on my bike if I tried to catch you while I was on it.” Stacie lifted one shoulder. “So I had to get off it.”

“Did you know it wouldn’t land in the street?” Aubrey asked curiously.

“No.” Stacie looked up, one corner of her mouth lifted. “But it’s just a bike.”

“Oh.” Aubrey said softly. “Thank you, Stacie.” She cleared her throat. “Thank you for saving me.”

“I’m just glad I was there.” Stacie sat back, one hand keeping the towel in place. “My heart hasn’t slowed down since I heard the truck behind me.”

Aubrey gave a weak laugh. “I know the feeling.” She closed her eyes for a second, her own racing heart only gradually beginning to slow down. “I think I actually felt yours after you caught me.” She lifted her hand, unsurprised when it trembled. “Hopefully that stops soon.” Lowering it back to her lap, she closed her eyes again and took a deep breath before exhaling slowly.

“I definitely know that feeling.” Stacie said softly and Aubrey looked at her curiously.

“You?” Aubrey looked down at Stacie’s hand where it held the towel in place, her fingertips resting on Aubrey’s shin. “Your hands seem pretty steady.” There wasn’t even the slightest hint of a tremor, just warmth where they touched her skin.

“Occupational hazard.” Stacie was also looking down at Aubrey’s leg. “Can’t let the patients know you’re nervous. They tend to not trust that you know what you’re doing.”

“Makes sense.” Aubrey settled back in her chair and studied the woman across from her who was gently lifting the ice to check on the swelling.

Now that she wasn’t influenced by frustration, Aubrey could admit that Stacie was pretty. Honesty forced her to amend that to beautiful  and she immediately heard Beca’s ‘Ha!’ in her head. Plus on top of the whole hero thing, Aubrey could tell that Stacie actually cared about making sure her ankle was taken care of; the concern the other woman was practically radiating spoke of an empathy Aubrey wasn’t sure she deserved. In different circumstances she’d have maybe… but now… Aubrey sighed as the full extent of her pettiness sunk in again.

“I’m sorry, did that hurt?” Stacie looked up from where she’d been readjusting the icepack.

“What?” Aubrey blinked as she was pulled from her thoughts. “Oh, no. It’s… I think the ice is helping.” She flexed her foot slightly and winced. “Maybe not.”

Stacie chuckled. “It is. The swelling isn’t nearly as bad as it could be. But you’re definitely going to feel it for a while. Actually…” She shrugged out of her own backpack and set it on the table. “I’d really like to wrap it, keep the swelling down.” She met Aubrey’s eyes and looked hesitant for the first time. “But it would mean taking off your shoe and sock so you could leave it on as long as possible today.”

“Oh.” Aubrey wondered how many times she’d said that in the last few minutes. “I… Sure.” She smiled and this time it felt more natural. “You’re the professional. I trust you.” Then she frowned, not having the faintest idea she was going to say that.

“You do?” Stacie’s eyebrow shot up as searched through her bag.

Aubrey didn’t answer right away, knowing that the pause was nothing short of awkward and it made her uncomfortable. It wasn’t like she had any reason to distrust Stacie but she didn’t actually know anything about her either.

Except she’d just saved Aubrey’s life and was actively taking care of her despite everything over the past three months.

Aubrey made a decision and took a measured breathe. “This may sound… stupid… but is there any way we could start over?”

Stacie eyed her, the other eyebrow joining its partner. “Like a truce? No more chains and bells?”

Aubrey shifted, aware that she was blushing again. “Something like that.”

“Sure,” Stacie said easily, pulling a small first aid kit from the bottom of her pack.

“Really?” Aubrey was surprised and wasn’t sure if she’d have been so quick if the positions were reversed. Stacie really had done nothing wrong and Aubrey’s reaction had been over the top.

“Really.” Stacie set the kit down.

“That’s… wow. Thank you,” Aubrey said and held out her hand. “Hi, I’m Aubrey.”

Stacie smiled and shook it with a firm grip. “Stacie.” She let go and opened her kit, pulling out an Ace bandage. She closed the kit and stored it back in her bag. “You sure you’re okay with me taking off your shoe and sock?”

“Yes,” Aubrey agreed. “I think you’d do it with less pain than I would. Or at least quicker. I see you’re prepared for anything.”

“Another occupational hazard,” Stacie chuckled. “Alright, here we go.” She moved the ice to the table and began to untie Aubrey’s shoe. “If it gets too bad, let me know but it’s going to hurt some and the quicker I can wrap it the better.” She looked up, her left hand cradling Aubrey’s calf and the right poised to slip off her shoe. “I don’t really have anything to distract you with, but if you focus on watching how I wrap it, it might help. You’ll need to do this the next few days.” One corner of her mouth twitched up. “Unless you’ve got someone at home to help you wrap it when you wake up.”

Aubrey blinked, sure she was imagining things but she swore she heard something more than just casual conversation in that last sentence. “No, I… uh… no.” Her brows knit together in sudden pain as her ankle began to throb again. Looking down she saw that not only was her shoe off but so was her sock. “Sneaky.” Stacie tucked her sock into the shoe and handed it to Aubrey who stored it in her bag.  

“When necessary.” Stacie looked up briefly and smiled at her. “Definitely bruised. That’s going to be a gorgeous shade for the next several days.”

“Lovely.” Aubrey said dryly, taking in the bruise that had already bloomed around her ankle. “Guess I won’t be going to Stretch for a while.”

“Not if you want it to heal,” Stacie said as she began to wrap the bandage around Aubrey’s foot, working her way from toe to heel, moving quickly as she spoke. “If you had a tear in college, this will be familiar. Let me know if you’ve any questions.” She wound it around Aubrey’s ankle and calf in a figure-eight several times before wrapping the final ends around her calf. “You’ll also want to loosen it a few times a day for blood flow but the most important thing is going to be RICE.” She sat back in the chair and put the ice back on Aubrey’s ankle.

Aubrey closed her eyes in relief as the pain slowly lessened again. “That sounds familiar.”

“I could go into doctor mode and explain it,” Stacie sounded amused. “But people tend to hate that if they already know the answer.”

“I know it’s simple, but I can’t think yet, so please, feel free.” Aubrey huffed out a breath. “Thank you, again. That does feel better.” It wasn’t a lot, but anything was better than the first blinding moments after the near accident.

“Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.” Stacie explained.

“I knew it was simple.” Aubrey opened her eyes again and was caught by the quiet empathy on Stacie’s face. It threw her enough that whatever she was going to say next was forgotten. “Uh…” Fortunately Stacie misunderstood and went into greater detail.

“Just keep off it as much as possible, keep it wrapped for at least two days though three is preferable. Ice it for twenty minutes or so at least four times a day for the next two days as well, to keep the swelling down. Don’t let the bandage be so tight that it cuts off the circulation. And last, ideally we’d like it over your heart for elevation, but at least keep it parallel to the ground as much as possible. Plus the pillow prop while you sleep.”

It was on the tip of Aubrey’s tongue to ask how to reach Stacie if she had any questions but she realized how stupid and presumptuous it was. Obviously the answer would be to call her doctor and she wasn’t sure why she thought Stacie would hand over her number. Instead she just nodded. “Right. That's... right."

“Do you need…? Is there someone who can…?” Stacie hesitated. “I can go home and get my car, so we can get your bike – I assume it’s at Stretch – but I’d hate to leave you here until I get back.”

“Yeah, I’ve got a friend I can call. She’s got a truck, so no worries on the bike.” Aubrey smiled at her. “But thank you for the offer.”

“Here’s another one – what kind of drink do you want?” Stacie made a face. “Now that the adrenaline’s worn off, I could really use a drink.”

“Only if you let me pay,” Aubrey opened her pack and pulled out her wallet. “Least I can do since you swooped in and saved me.”

“Actually,” Stacie winced. “I probably owe you, considering…”

“Clean slate,” Aubrey said and held out the twenty she’d pulled from her wallet. “Leave the change for a tip, but I would die for the strawberry smoothie with bananas and apples.” She grinned. “And if they do have alcohol on the secret menu, vodka.”

Taking it, Stacie laughed. “Deal. Alright, this is going to sting and I’m sorry, but I’ll be gentle.”

Aubrey tightened her grip on her bag and nodded. “I know.” Even she wasn’t sure if she meant she knew it would sting or that Stacie would be careful. “I’m ready.”

Stacie lifted Aubrey’s leg up with her left hand under her calf and stood up carefully, making sure not to shift or bump it. As she rose, she pushed her chair backwards so she could turn her body sideways and step back, keeping Aubrey’s leg motionless. Then, with her right, she pulled the chair forward again and placed her bag on the seat, setting Aubrey’s calf gently on it.

“There, all done.” Stacie stood up and eyed her handiwork.

“That hardly hurt at all.” Aubrey let herself relax again. “And that’s kind of miraculous considering.”

“What can I say; I’m great at my job.” With a grin, Stacie turned toward the building. “I’ll just be a minute.”

“No worries, I’ll call my friend.” Aubrey pulled her phone from the bag. As Stacie walked inside, Aubrey muttered to herself, “Who is going to have a fucking field day with this.” Unlocking her phone she opened up her favorites and dialed Beca’s cell. It didn’t ring long before it was answered.

“Hey Aubrey. Aren’t you supposed to be in your death on wheels class?”

Aubrey gave a small laugh. “You can’t knock it till you try it.”

“Sure I can. Watch me. Oops, one sec.” Without waiting for a reply Beca set down her phone and Aubrey could hear her ringing up a customer.

While waiting she stared at the ice pack covering her leg, trying not to let her mind remind her that she’d almost been run over. Something, she knew, she was not going to tell Beca over the phone. If positions were reversed she’d be completely freaked out until she could see for herself that Beca was actually okay.

“Sorry about that.” Beca had picked up the phone while Aubrey had been distracted. “We’ve actually got some customers this fine Saturday morning. What can I do for you if you’re not spinning the day away?”

“I was wondering if you happened to drive your truck to work today.” Aubrey resisted the urge to shift in her seat, not wanting to accidentally jar her foot and whimper into the phone.

“You’re in luck,” Beca said cheerfully. “Said vehicle is currently parked behind the shop. What did you have in mind? Are we driving out to that new pizza place tonight?”

“No,” Aubrey said slowly. “Not exactly. I strained my ankle and could use some help getting my bike home.”

All trace of joking dropped from Beca’s voice immediately. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine. Mostly.” Aubrey smiled at the worry filling her friend’s words. “Just can’t walk on it.”

“Dude.” Beca blew out a breath. “Lead with that. How’d it happen?”

“Walked to that juice bar on 6th. Slipped off the curb.” She frowned at her foot.

“Please tell me you’re not lying in the street and calling me.” Beca half laughed.

“No,” Aubrey said quickly, before the thought of the truck could come back. “I had help getting to a table outside.” Automatically her eyes drifted to the window of the juice bar, finding Stacie just turning around to check on her. Aubrey gave her a thumbs up and could see Stacie’s smile just before the clouds shifted, the sun coming back out to obscure the glass under its glare.

“Okay good,” Beca fell silent for a moment. “Let me call Lilly, see if she can come in and close today. It might be a while – are you sure you’re okay? Are you going to need the doctor or is there anything we’re going to need to get?”

“I promise, I’m fine. We’ll just need to get my bike from Stretch on the way home.” Aubrey paused, thinking. “I think I’ve got a couple ice packs and can order groceries if I need it.”

“We’ll get to your house and see what you need. I’ll run to the store for you.”

“Beca you don’t…”

“Zip it, Posen.” Beca cut her off. “You took care of me when I had that death flu last year, so this is just me returning the favor.”

Aubrey smiled, touched at the concern she could hear. “Okay, I’ll shut up. Thanks.” She looked up as Stacie came back out, a drink in each hand.

“You’re welcome. I’ll be there when I can – is that the place that’s only got street parking?”

“Yes,” Aubrey said, turning to scan the street. “And it’s all full.”

“Damnit. Maybe I can just double park and come help you to the truck.” She could practically hear Beca’s frown.

“I could probably hop my way to the street,” Aubrey teased.

“You will not.”

Aubrey blinked as the words echoed both from the phone and in front of her. She looked up and saw Stacie was frowning at her. “I won’t?” She wasn’t sure how to take the fact that she and Beca had said it at the same time and in the same disapproving way. “Hold on a second, Beca.”

“Not a chance.” Stacie set both drinks down. “I’ll stay here till your friend gets here and will help you over.” She paused in the act of preparing to move Aubrey’s foot so she could sit down again. “Unless you want me to leave?”

“No,” Aubrey shook her head. “That’s not… don’t you have things to do?”

“I can go later,” Stacie said as she reversed the process from earlier until Aubrey’s calf was once more resting on her knee. She looked up from arranging the ice and saw Aubrey watching her. “I’d rather make sure you didn’t have any more mishaps.”

“Alright,” Aubrey smiled at her. “Thank you.” A pointedly cleared throat drew her attention back to the phone. “Sorry, Beca. But apparently if you just pull up in front, I’ve got help to get to the truck.”

“That sounds like a woman and your voice went all soft and girly!” Beca accused. “Are you using your injury to get a date?”

“No! And it did not!” Aubrey said indignantly, immediately flushing as Stacie’s eyebrow went up.

“Well now I know you’re lying, but I’ll see for myself soon enough,” Beca said. “Sit tight, I’ll get Lilly in and be there as soon as I can.” She hung up before Aubrey could come up with any sort of denial.

Aubrey shook her head and put her phone back in her bag. “My friend’s got to cover her shift but then she’ll be here.” She picked up her drink. “Thank you again for…” She laughed. “The rescue, the first aid and the drink.”

“You paid for the drink,” Stacie pointed out. “You’re welcome, but, Aubrey… You don’t have to thank me for any of it. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.” She paused then continued. “If it’s not too nosy, why’d you yell there at the end?”

Caught off guard by the question, Aubrey couldn’t think of a lie fast enough and found the truth coming out before she could stop it. “She asked if I was using my injury to get a… uh… date.” She busied herself with stirring her smoothie with the straw, almost able to feel the considering look she knew she had to be getting.

But all Stacie said was, “I take it you didn’t tell her about the semi?”

“No,” Aubrey said, still unwilling to look at her. “I figure that’s better to do in person, with all my limbs mostly intact.”

“Good plan,” Stacie mused. Aubrey finally looked at her and saw the expression she’d been expecting was still there. “Is that a thing you do often?”

“Withhold the truth?” Aubrey blinked at her, confused.

“No… Use injuries to pick up women.” Stacie smiled when Aubrey flushed. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry. That was presumptuous and uncalled for. I apologize.”

Aubrey forced herself to stay relaxed. “Accepted.” She gave a small smile. “Though it’s been so long since I’ve been on a date, I probably should.” She blinked as she realized what she’d just said. And that she’d said it out loud. And who she’d said it to.

“Oh?” Stacie’s brow went up again.

“Oh… uh… that’s not…” Aubrey swallowed nervously. “I didn’t mean…” Obviously she was still shaken and completely off her game because normally she was far more articulate than she’d been today. It didn’t help that Stacie was gorgeous, caring and, so far, had a good sense of humor. In any other circumstances Aubrey would have been extremely intrigued and gone for it. Except she’d been so petty for the past few months that there was no way Stacie could be interested.

“It’s okay,” Stacie said, patting Aubrey’s calf lightly. “I was just teasing, I’m sorry. Again. I’m too used to giving Chloe and Emily a bad time.” She hesitated then continued. “It only happens when I feel comfortable around someone.” She gave a crooked grin. “Guess this truce-slash-clean slate thing is working.”

“Good. Maybe we can just forget I was a jerkface. I mean,” She cleared her throat. “That’s… good.”

“I don’t know that I’d call you a jerkface,” Stacie said, tilting her head. “A little intense that day, maybe.”

“Now you’re just being nice,” Aubrey interrupted with a laugh. “I was totally a bitch before and after.” She fidgeted with her straw again. “I don’t even know why I did it.”

“I definitely didn’t expect to have to get Chloe’s bolt cutters,” Stacie nodded. “I was a little… let’s just say hot under the collar.” She grinned suddenly. “Chloe said she’d never seen you look so pissed.”

“Oh god.” Aubrey set down her drink and covered her face with her hands; the chill from the one that had been holding her drink was a welcome sensation on her now burning cheeks. “I don’t have anything I can say in my defense. I didn’t think she’d be involved. Which is dumb, because I know the camera is there.”

“Eh,” Stacie shrugged. “She was amused more than anything. She kept…” Stacie broke off and cleared her throat. “She said I must have hit a nerve because she’d never seen you anything but cheerful.”

“Great,” Aubrey muttered. “I can never go back there.”

“Don’t be silly. Chloe would blame me.” Stacie said immediately. “Do I lose points for agreeing to the truce if I tell you that Chloe asked me to stop stealing your bell a week ago?”

“She did?” Aubrey eyed her. “Do you guys talk about it often?” What she’d really wanted to ask was if they talked about her but she didn’t think she wanted to know the answer to that. Or maybe she wanted it too much.

“No,” Stacie said earnestly. “I swear. She and my cousin came over for dinner that night and the bell was sitting on my counter.” It was her turn to squirm. “She told me to stop making her an accessory to theft.”

“I hadn’t… thought of it that way.” Aubrey said slowly.

“Me either,” Stacie shrugged. “It was just between us – but Chlo pointed out that if you chose to get the police involved, I was the one who was actually stealing.” She smiled wryly. “Technically you weren’t really doing anything wrong.”

“I would never have gone that far.” Aubrey shook her head. “That… I felt it was between just us too and never would’ve gone to anyone else.”

“Same.” Stacie nodded. “So we didn’t really talk about it.” She smiled again. “Unless I needed the cutters.”

“I’m sorry,” Aubrey said again. “The whole thing was extremely petty and I made a much bigger deal about that spot than it actually was.”

“It’s not like I didn’t park there on purpose afterward,” Stacie replied. “Not that I know your schedule, but if it was free I took it. Just to be an ass.” She took a drink. “So I guess that means we’re both petty. Except we’ve agreed that’s the past.”

“So we should both stop apologizing for it.” Aubrey smiled when Stacie nodded. “Alright. I’ll try.” She suddenly became aware that Stacie’s hand had been resting on her calf since she’d patted it and was grateful when Stacie steered the conversation elsewhere. Because it felt nice. Natural. And Aubrey wasn’t ready to deal with what that meant yet.

“If it’s not a bad injury, you should be able to maybe use it lightly after a week or so. Maybe two to be safe.” Stacie narrowed her eyes. “No spin class for at least three though a month would be better.”

Aubrey frowned. “Shoot, I didn’t think of that.” She glared at her ankle. “Flo is going to kill me and I’m going to get fat.”

“I highly doubt that,” Stacie shook her head. “Plus Flo’s not that bad.” She hesitated. “At the risk of sending us both into PTSD… Maybe one of the beginner yoga classes would help you not feel like you‘re just sitting around.” She raised one finger. “But only after two weeks and only if you’re able to walk on it without pain.”

“I’ve never done yoga,” Aubrey said, fighting the flashback that swam through her mind.

“It’s very calming and… it can center you.” Stacie said. “I’ve done it for years. Even thought of teaching it once or twice.”

“Why didn’t you?” Aubrey asked without thinking. She definitely understood what Stacie meant by feeling comfortable – she wasn’t normally this nosy at a first meeting.

“Timing,” Stacie said regretfully. “But I haven’t given up hope. Maybe when I retire.” She looked back at Aubrey. “Sometimes the instructors can give alternative poses if you let them know in advance that you’re favoring an injury.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Aubrey said. “Being unable ride a bike will either be a great break or drive me completely insane.”

"Is this going to cause problems for your job?" Stacie asked curiously.

"I don't think so," Aubrey said slowly. "I'm a vocal coach, so I can sit down and put my foot up."

"That sounds so fun!” Stacie leaned forward eagerly. "Do you also do the pianist accompaniment?"

Aubrey laughed. "Sometimes, but we'll have to make do with recorded music for a while. Do you sing?"

"Just for fun; usually in the solitude of my apartment or with Chloe and Emily." Stacie sat back again. "Or when they drag me out for karaoke somewhere."

"Emily? The one who works at Stretch?" Aubrey asked in surprise. She hadn’t put the two together when Stacie had first said her name but now it clicked.

"Yeah, she's my cousin." Stacie took another drink.

"So, I definitely picked a fight with the wrong person," Aubrey mused then blinked as she realized what she said but Stacie only grinned at her. "Can we forget I said that?"

"In the spirit of our new truce, yes." Stacie tilted her head. "But I reserve the right to maybe revisit it if we move past the awkward phase." She winked and Aubrey felt her cheeks grow warm.

"I suppose that's fair." Aubrey wasn’t sure if she was blushing because of the reminder of how they met or because of the wink. She was afraid it was the wink, which meant she was rushing headlong down the hill of new crush and that was entirely ridiculous considering how annoyed she’d been by this very same woman since they’d met. Mostly. Honesty forced her to admit that she’d kept up chaining Stacie’s bike because she just couldn’t stand to lose even if she was the only one who cared. She ignored Beca’s snort in her head and changed the subject. "So you do karaoke?"

"Sometimes. Why?" Stacie settled back in her chair again, her expression thoughtful; almost as if Aubrey had done something to surprise her.

Aubrey wasn't even sure why she asked, but since she'd started herself down this path she had to continue. "My best friend and I go to Lyrics & Libations every Friday." She realized she was twisting her fingers together and forced herself to still them. "You should join us one night. Uh, all of you," she added quickly.

"We went there once." Stacie nodded. "Nice place, good singers... great vibe." She smiled slowly and Aubrey’s heart sped up for an entirely new reason. “Are you sure you’re not using your injury to get a date?”

Aubrey forced herself remain calm because this was definitely steering them into the realm of flirting and butterflies had grabbed hold of her stomach and were trying to tug it out of her body. “Are you saying I would only get a date out of pity for my injury?”

“Oh I wouldn’t say that…” Stacie’s smile widened further, slow and sure, as her eyes once again scanned Aubrey, full of something that Aubrey’s slowly waking up ego wanted to call interested appreciation.

“Good.” Aubrey lifted the straw to her lips and took a drink, trying not to smirk. She couldn’t help her own pass over the woman in front of her – every inch of tanned and toned leg up to where they were covered by form hugging bicycle shorts; slender arms that showed off defined musculature every time she moved; green eyes that were sparkling, with amusement as Aubrey met them. “Now that that’s settled.”

“Mm.” Stacie’s eyebrow bounced.

“If you ever find your way to the L&L on a Friday, just tell the bouncer that you’re with me. She’ll show you the table.”

“Ooh. You’ve even got a reserved table?” Stacie whistled. “Fancy.”

“Do I lose points if I say it’s because I happened to pick a best friend who is friends with the owners?”

Stacie pursed her lips. “No, I don’t think so. Means you have good taste.” She paused and Aubrey saw a flash of something pass through her eyes before it was gone too fast to identify.

‘Well shit, now I’m in the gutter.’ Aubrey took a drink to give herself time. ‘Thanks, Beca. I didn’t used to be a dirty bird.’’ When Stacie’s lips twitched Aubrey realized she wasn’t the only one potentially thinking of a different meaning to those words.

There was a pause then. It wasn’t awkward and Aubrey felt it should be. They were still two strangers, for all that they’d been circling each other from a distance for months. But she couldn’t deny the tug she felt as they both sat there, sipping their drinks and watching each other. It was stupidly rash and impulsive – two things Aubrey had never been. Until, she supposed, she’d left her job as a lawyer to move to a smaller town and teach people to sing.

Maybe this was just a continuation of her growth from the crappy, career driven drone she’d been to someone who got up in the morning with the sun and took a ride around her neighborhood to wake up instead of getting the biggest espresso she could get her hands on just to find the energy to go to the office.

‘Maybe Stacie is my next step.’

The thought startled her – rash and impulsive, like chaining a woman’s bike to the rack – and she was glad when Stacie broke the silence. Because it had also felt right, and she wasn’t quite bold enough to take that leap. Yet. Not until she was sure she wouldn’t be doing it alone.

“So what kind of truck am I looking for?”

“Just a black F-150.” Aubrey looked past Stacie down the street. “And I think she’ll actually come from behind you since she didn’t have to get it from home.”

“Any identifying marks in case she doesn’t?” Stacie looked over her shoulder reflexively.

“Just the name of her bike shop, One for the Road, in blue and white.”

“Sounds like drinking and driving.” Stacie turned back around when Aubrey laughed. “What?”

“I tease her about that all the time, actually.” Aubrey chuckled.

“Great minds,” Stacie said. “Actually, I’ve heard of that place. They’ve got a really good reputation.”

“Ever been?” Aubrey asked curiously.

“No, I’d researched the bikes I wanted before I went and ended up at DSM.” She blinked when Aubrey made a face. “Now what?”

“Sorry, habit. They’re sort of Beca’s nemesis when it comes to racing.”

“You can have a bike nemesis?” Stacie laughed.

“What would you call the last few months?” Aubrey tilted her head.

“Hm, good point.” Stacie tapped her chin. “Though, really, I think my nemesis was your bell.”

“It’s because it was jaunty, wasn’t it?” Aubrey teased.

“Maybe.” Stacie took a drink while Aubrey look past her as a car turned onto the street. “She here?”

“I don’t think so, it’s too soon.” But it was definitely a black truck headed their way. Aubrey waved as Beca paused in front of them, making obscure gestures with her hands. “Well, that is her, but what the hell is she doing?” She frowned, trying to decipher the motions.

“I think she’s saying she’s going to circle the block,” Stacie said looking back down the street. “Because it’s going to take a few for us to get sorted and over there and there’s cars behind her.”

Aubrey gave Beca a thumbs up. “That seems way too logical for her.” Beca returned it and resumed driving down the street. “But apparently you’re right and I’m impressed.”

“Me too,” Stacie said with a laugh. “Alright, let’s get you on your feet and ready.” She nodded when Aubrey opened her mouth. “And I won’t say anything about the semi.”

Aubrey eyed her. “Well that’s scary.”

“What?” Stacie picked up her pack and shrugged into it before moving the bag of ice from leg to table.

“Beca’s always ranting about mind readers…” Aubrey laughed and shook her head when Stacie glanced at her. “I just roll my eyes and tell her if she wasn’t always in the gutter it wouldn’t be a problem, but now… that was exactly what I’d been about to ask you.”

“If I was, you wouldn’t expect me to admit it, would you?” Stacie said loftily.

“I suppose not.” Aubrey set her own bag on the table. “How do you want to do this?”

“Let me get up first, so I can pull you out of your chair. The longer you can avoid trying to use it the better.” Stacie said as she carefully lifted Aubrey’s foot and stood up again, this time pushing the chair out of the way. “Think you can resist the urge to put it down?”

“Only if I keep telling myself the floor is lava but only to my left foot.” Aubrey shook her head ruefully as Stacie let out a bark of laughter. “If you ever tell the kids I teach that I used that phrase, the truce is over.” Aubrey convinced herself she was just tuning out the pain when she focused on the fact that Stacie didn’t look ridiculous bent over with Aubrey’s calf in her hand. Then again, it could be the amount of leg on display so close to her face.

Stacie solemnly crossed her heart. “Promise.” She nodded encouragingly. “Alright,” she lowered her arm a little more. “Remember…”

“Lava.” Aubrey took a deep breath. “Okay.” She lifted her leg from Stacie’s grip and nodded. “I got this.”

“And I got you.” Stacie straightened, holding out her hands and Aubrey took them, ignoring the renewed throb of her ankle.

“Count of three?”

“On three or after three?” Stacie asked as she tightened her fingers.

“Dealer’s choice.” Aubrey shrugged.

“Let me do most of the work,” Stacie said. “One, two…” She pulled Aubrey easily to her feet – rather, to her foot – so easily that Aubrey overbalanced and tilted, having also used her arms to pull herself up. “Oops.” She let out a huff as Aubrey collided with her and quickly wrapped one of her arms around Aubrey’s back and held her steady. “Sorry about that; how’s the foot? Did we bump it?”

Aubrey prayed to every god she had ever heard of that she wouldn’t start blushing furiously at finding herself held gently against Stacie’s body. Again. It was so much more distracting face to face and no longer on the edge of death. “Nope, it’s fine.” She cleared her throat and Stacie stepped back carefully, still helping Aubrey to balance with one hand. Aubrey reached for her bag but Stacie had already snagged it with her free hand and slung it over her shoulder.

“I’ll carry it over.” She handed Aubrey her drink. “That way you don’t have to take it off again when you get in the truck.” Stacie slipped her arm around Aubrey’s waist as Aubrey reached across Stacie’s back. “Let’s do this.”

“Thanks.” Aubrey looked up at the running of feet. “I guess you found a spot?”

Beca came to a halt, her eyes wide as they darted between Aubrey and Stacie. “Someone pulled out as I turned the corner again.” She jerked her thumb over her shoulder then pointed at Aubrey’s foot. “Dude! Holy fuck you’re purple!”

Aubrey looked down. “So I am.” She looked back up at Beca with a grin. “Thank you for coming to get me.”

“Of course,” Beca said, crouching down to get a better look. “You’re sure you’re not broken?”

“Yes I’m sure.” Aubrey rolled her eyes. “Stacie’s a physical therapist and has assured me I’m not going to die.”

Beca stood up slowly. “I am going to assume you’re Stacie and say thank you for helping out klutz over here.”

“Right place, right time,” Stacie said. “I’ve always got a first aid kit with me, so it didn’t take long to fix her up.” She held out her free hand. “Stacie.”

Beca shook it. “Beca.” She looked between them again. “Is there anything I can help out with or…?”

“With Beca here to carry things, maybe it’ll be easier if I just carried you to the truck,” Stacie said casually. “Keeps it elevated and from bouncing.”

Aubrey froze in place. Logically she knew that Stacie had to have been offering from a purely practical point of view – everything she’d said was accurate and there was no inflection otherwise – but Aubrey didn’t think she stood a chance against her hormones if Stacie carried her like a damsel in a romance novel. As the seconds ticked by and Stacie grew more and more innocent looking, Aubrey realized she was being teased again. Or maybe tested.

“Actually,” Aubrey finally said, ignoring Beca’s eyebrows shooting up as far as Aubrey had ever seen them, and held out her drink. “Can you carry this and grab the ice off the table?”

“Uh…” Beca eyed them both. “Yeah, sure.” Beca took the cup as she stepped past them. “Is that it?” She reappeared with the towel and ice hanging over one arm, Stacie’s drink in the other. “I’m assuming this is yours and you don’t want it left behind.”

“Thanks,” Stacie held out her hand for it. “I’d have forgotten it.”

“I think that’s it.” Aubrey assured her. “Stacie can get me to the truck.”

“Then let’s get you home.” Beca raised her eyebrows. “Do we need to stop for crutches? I assume you’re going to need crutches for a while. You can’t just hop everywhere even if it would amuse me greatly.”

“No, I’ve got some stored in a closet somewhere.” Aubrey said. “I’m ready when you are, Stace.”

“Alright, nice and easy.” Stacie’s arm tightened around her as Aubrey hopped forward. “Let me know if we need to pause or if you change your mind on the hopping.” Aubrey stuck her tongue out and Stacie grinned at her. “Do I need to give Beca the rundown on what you can’t do and how long you have to wait until you can?” She laughed quietly. “You seem the type to rebel against orders.”

“Actually, Aubrey loves rules.” Beca said cheerfully. “Normally she’d hit me for saying that, but since she’s otherwise occupied…”

“We’re about to get into the same truck,” Aubrey growled and Stacie laughed again. “You’re going to be in punching range.”

“Good point.” Beca mused. “Maybe we should just put you in the truck bed.” Aubrey took a breath but before she could say anything Stacie tightened her grip.

“No, that’d bounce her around too much and could injure her worse. You don’t want that on your conscience, do you?”

“Spoilsport.” Beca sighed.

“How did you get here so fast anyway?” Aubrey asked to distract herself as each hop jarred her.

“Lilly was already in the shop and I didn’t know it.” Beca laughed. “I texted her to see if she could come in and she appeared behind me twenty seconds later.”

Aubrey chuckled. “I’m waiting for the day you put a bell on her.” She looked up when Stacie gave a low grunt and saw she was frowning. “Bells can be handy,” she said lightly.

“So you say,” Stacie shook her head. “I still disagree.”

Beca quickened her pace as she dug her keys out of her pocket. There was a beep as the truck unlocked and Beca opened the passenger door. “It’s not like the truck is jacked up or anything, but getting you in and out of this thing will be fun.” She watched them approach, her worried expression giving lie to her casual conversation.

“Beca,” Aubrey said as they reached her. “I’m going to be fine. It really is just my ankle.”

“She just needs to keep it wrapped, elevated and iced. And she can’t try to walk on it for at least a week.” Stacie turned her head to look at Aubrey. “I’ve got an idea and I don’t know if you’re going to go for it.”

Aubrey eyed her narrowly, not letting herself get distracted by the sun highlighting the flecks in her eyes. “Is this a truce breaking idea?” She ignored the curious look Beca was giving her. There’d be time to explain this entire afternoon when they were alone.

“I don’t think so?” Stacie hedged. “But I was thinking if we back you up to the truck I can lift you up so you don’t have to try and push with one foot.”

“That’s actually a good idea, Bree.” Beca said when Aubrey hesitated in answering. “Getting out is easier because you can lower yourself with your arms. After I go in and get your crutches. While I think I can help you get into the house without them, it won’t be as easily as Legs here.” She leaned inside to put Aubrey’s drink in the cup holder. “I’ll hold yours,” she said to Stacie, “while you do the heavy lifting.”

“First you call me a bitch and now I’m fat.” Aubrey frowned at her. “Tell me again why we’re best friends?”

Beca rolled her eyes. “Stop stalling, woman.” She stepped out of the way when Stacie handed over her drink.

“Alright… You’re right.” Aubrey agreed and with Stacie’s help got herself situated in the open door. “Whenever you’re ready.” She was disturbed by how much she noticed the lack of Stacie’s arm around her when they separated. She was even more disturbed by how natural it felt when Stacie stepped up and gripped her waist. In any other circumstance this position was immediately followed up by a lot of kissing and the sheer muscle memory of it made her sway forward an inch before she stopped herself. It didn’t help when Stacie’s eyes dropped to Aubrey’s mouth, her fingers flexing against Aubrey’s hips, and pure reaction and nerves made Aubrey wet her lips. The moment hung between them for a timeless instant before Beca cleared her throat.

“If you guys need me to come back later…” Her gleeful tone meant she was going to be insufferable on the ride home.

Stacie met Aubrey’s eyes, a smile playing along generous lips. “Ready?”

Unsure for a split second if Stacie meant for them to make out or to get Aubrey into the truck, she could only nod. Stacie’s hands tightened on her hips and as she lifted, Aubrey pushed backward with her hands on the seat behind her. When she was settled, Stacie stepped back once more.

“Please don’t bump your foot swinging it in.” She turned to Beca. “Can I get the ice?” When Beca handed the towel over, Stacie took the bag out of it and slung the towel over her shoulder.

Aubrey carefully turned herself until she was sitting in the car with her left leg slightly crossed over the right and resting on the calf. “This should work for the ten minute drive home.”

Stacie leaned forward and arranged the ice until it was resting on the bandage and not her skin. “It’ll probably fall off on the drive but until then…” She pulled Aubrey’s bag from her shoulder and handed it into the truck. “It was nice meeting you, Aubrey.” She held out her hand, one corner of her mouth twitching into a grin.

“Thanks for the rescue,” Aubrey said again as she took it. “I definitely owe you one.”

“Clean slate, remember?” Stacie said as she backed up and turned to Beca. “Nice meeting you too. Make sure she stays off it. If she doesn’t tell you the rules, go look up RICE and make her follow them.”

Beca frowned as they shook again. “Like, cooking? Do I have to put Aubrey’s foot in a bag of rice like you do when you drop your phone in the toilet?”

Stacie eyed her, obviously wondering if Beca was serious but finally noticed the grin Beca was having trouble holding back. “Something tells me you and I could one day be great friends.”

“Same,” Beca laughed and handed Stacie her drink before going to the drivers side and getting in. She started the truck and Aubrey rolled down her window. “Since you were in the right place at the right time, you get the lifetime friends of friends discount if you ever find yourself in need of anything from the shop.” Aubrey’s brows shot up and she turned to look at Beca who merely looked past her and out the window.

“You don’t…” Stacie said as she leaned in the window, her arms resting on the frame, but Beca interrupted.

“Too late, it’s said. Plus it’ll win me friend points I can use against her later.” Beca frowned when Aubrey hit her thigh. “Shit, I forgot you were in hitting range now.”

Stacie laughed. “Get her home and get that elevated.”

“Yes, Doctor.” Aubrey reached out and put her hand on Stacie’s arm. “Thank you.” Stacie covered it with her own and squeezed.

“Anytime.” She stepped back. “It really was great to meet you.” She nodded at Beca. “Both of you.”

“I’m sure I’ll see you around,” Aubrey teased. “One way or another.”

“Not for at least a month or I’ll get Beca to kick your ass.” Stacie’s brow arched.

“And I will.” Beca agreed and turned to Aubrey. “Ready?”

“Yeah, it’s starting to ache again.” Aubrey sighed. “God I hate being injured but being unable to walk is the worst.”

“Could be worse,” Stacie said and Aubrey shuddered. “Bye.” She took another step back as Beca backed the truck up so she could pull back into the street when the traffic was clear.

Aubrey watched her, feeling the echo of warmth around her waist and the touch of gentle fingers on her leg. She realized she was a little sad and wondered how her feelings for someone could change so fast. Then, before she got too far down that path, Beca distracted her.

“Dude. You guys totally almost made out in front of me.”

Aubrey gave a startled laugh. “We did not.”

“Oh yeah. She’s gorgeous so I wouldn’t have blamed you.” Beca drummed her fingers on the wheel. “I’d have totally watched too.”

“Oh my god.” Aubrey buried her face in her hands. “We were not going to make out in front of you.” She could feel her cheeks flame under her fingertips.

“So you’d make out if I wasn’t there?” Beca sounded far too amused for Aubrey’s liking.

“I don’t…” Aubrey stopped and tried again. “There was going to be no making out.”

“Useless gay.”

“Hey!”

“Did you get her number?” Beca glanced at her out of the corner of her eye.

“No.” Aubrey admitted.

“Then I say again: Useless gay.”

“Shut up.” Beca snorted and Aubrey dropped her hands back into her lap. “It… it wasn’t really that kind of meet cute.”

“Taking care of a stranger’s ankle is exactly a meet cute.” Beca said slowly, as if to a child.

“She’s not totally a stranger,” Aubrey mused without thinking.

“HAVE YOU BEEN HOOKING UP WITH SOMEONE AND DIDN’T TELL ME!?” Beca risked a look at her, over exaggerated outrage written all over her face.

“I am not hooking up with anyone!” Aubrey thumped her in the leg again.

“But she’s not a stranger? What are you keeping from me?” Beca’s tone was edging into sulking and Aubrey immediately felt bad. They told each other everything and Aubrey didn’t want Beca to think she’d broken that unspoken promise.

“She’s the bell thief?” The truck fell silent and Aubrey found she was holding her breath.

“I’m sorry – did you just tell me that tall, dark and almost-pinned-you-against-my-truck back there is the same woman you’ve been warring with over the past few months?” Each word was spoken carefully and Aubrey couldn’t tell if Beca was amused or angry.

“Yes?”

“And you let her put her arm around you?”

“Yes?” Aubrey turned to watch her.

“And she got it back?”

“You make it sound like I was going to maim her or something.” Aubrey accused.

“You’re the one who said you couldn’t let her win.” Beca threw her another look. “What happened to ‘the war’?”

“Well...” Aubrey sighed. Hopefully Beca wouldn’t freak out since Aubrey was safe in the truck with her. “There’s a bit more than I told you over the phone.”

“Did you fall off a curb cause you guys were making out?”

“Oh my god, no! Would you stop bringing that up?” Because if she didn’t, Aubrey was never going to get it out of her own mind.

“Nope.” Beca said and gave a small sigh. “It’s a really…really… good image. And you can’t really complain because you just acted out at least half of it.”

“You’re such a gutter rat.” Aubrey resisted the urge to fidget because Beca was right and Aubrey’s brain kept showing her Stacie’s eyes on her lips. It didn’t help that she’d been pressed against Stacie’s body several times in the last hour. Now that she wasn’t freaking out about dying she was aware of how much she’d enjoyed it. And already missed it.

“Guilty.” Beca smirked. “Okay, now that that’s established, what did you actually want to tell me?”

“This is going to be a super hard right turn from pornoland, but…” Aubrey sighed. “I actually, literally-no-joking-here, think I almost died today.”

“What do you mean?” Beca stiffened in her seat and looked at her as they came to an empty four way stop.

“I stepped onto the curb but then a bunch of skateboarders almost knocked me off it. That’s when I twisted my ankle and started to fall backwards into the street.” She put her hand on Beca’s thigh as her eyes got wider. “But instead of hitting the ground, Stacie caught me… just as a semi passed behind us.”

“You… you almost…” Beca’s eyes shimmered as her voice broke. “Holy shit, Aubrey.”

“I’m okay, Becs.” Aubrey felt the sting of her own tears and was glad she’d waited until they were face to face before telling her. “I’m okay. I’m in the truck with you. And the only thing I’ve hurt is my ankle.” She squeezed Beca’s thigh lightly. “I’m right here and I’m fine.”

“But you could’ve…” Beca jumped as a horn blasted behind them. “Fuck!” Her eyes flicked up to the rearview mirror. “Asshole.” She blinked quickly and a few tears clung to her lashes. “Okay… Okay. Let’s… Let’s go get your bike because there’s a whole lot to unpack here and I just…” She cleared her throat as she pulled through the intersection. “I need a minute.”

“I know,” Aubrey said quietly. “It’s why I didn’t tell you on the phone.” She left her hand on Beca’s leg, knowing she’d need a physical reminder if their positions were reversed. In moments like this, logic didn’t matter and irrational fear almost always won out.

“I’d have…” Beca blew out a breath as she began circling the parking lot looking for a spot. “Oh I’d have lost my shit, Bree.”

“I know.” Aubrey fell quiet as they waited for someone to finish pulling out of a spot; waited until Beca had parked the truck and turned it off. “I really am okay, Beca. I’m safe and with you.”

“I should be the one comforting you,” Beca let out a weak laugh. “Not you comforting me.” She took off her seatbelt and sat for a moment before she turned until she was kneeling on her seat, facing Aubrey. “I’m so glad you’re okay.” She leaned over and hugged Aubrey tightly. “I don’t… I can’t imagine my life without you in it. You’re one of the few people that’ve taken the time to get past my resting bitch face.”

Aubrey reached up and gripped the arm Beca had across her chest with both hands. “I’m not going anywhere. You’re stuck with me, Mitchell.” She willed herself not to cry but it was a close thing as the emotions of the day caught up with her. She promised herself that she’d have a good cry once she was at home; maybe in a bubble bath with her foot propped on the edge of the tub.

“Okay.” Beca sat back in her seat and wiped her cheeks. “Tell me the rest of it.”

“Not much more to tell,” Aubrey sighed. “She apparently saw what was going to happen and jumped off her bike to catch me. The juice bar employee said she thought there was no way Stacie could reach me… but she did.”

“She literally caught you?” Beca sniffed but her voice was steadier. “Like a literal superhero swooping in to save you?”

“It’s not like she flew,” Aubrey said automatically. “But… yeah. I guess you could say that. She helped me back up on the curb and that’s when I realized who it was.”

“Did you punch her?” Beca asked and Aubrey let herself relax. If Beca was making jokes then she wasn’t spiraling about Aubrey’s near miss.

“No, but she did ask if I was going to if she put her arm around my waist to help me to a table.” Aubrey winced as she forgot her injury and shifted, bumping her ankle. “Shit.”

“Crap, okay. Gimme your key and I’ll go get your bike.” Beca held out her hand. “You can tell me the rest of it on the drive home.”

Aubrey opened the zippered pouch on the front of her bag. “Sounds good. It’s definitely starting to remind me it exists.”

“You probably were too distracted by the almost making out to think about it,” Beca said as she grabbed the small keychain Aubrey handed her. “I’ll be back.”

Aubrey shook her head as Beca quickly left the truck and headed toward the bike racks. “That went about as well as I expected.” She grabbed a napkin from Beca’s glovebox and wiped at her eyes. By the time Beca returned and hooked Aubrey’s bike to the rack sticking out of the truck’s hitch, Aubrey was calmly drinking the last of her smoothie.

“Was it in ‘your spot’?” Beca asked as she started the truck. Aubrey was relieved to see that Beca was clear eyed and her voice no longer shook.

“Yes.” Aubrey shrugged. “I can’t help it.”

“It’s a good spot, right in front,” Beca said absently as she backed out of the parking spot. “Definitely superior to the one’s in front or behind.”

“I hate you.” Aubrey leaned her head back against the seat and closed her eyes. “Now there’s two of you.”

“You actually love me.” But there was something in her tone that made Aubrey open one eye and squint at her. “But maybe not as much as you lurv the bell thief.”

“Lurv?” Aubrey closed her eye again. “Two encounters and mutual harassment doesn’t make lurv, Beca.”

“Of course not, you were in public. Can’t make lurv in public without getting arrested.” There was a pause. “Unless you’re very sneaky.”

“I sense a story I haven’t heard yet.” Aubrey opened her eyes and found Beca grinning at her.

“Maybe – but you’re also not going to hear it now. Maybe later when I’m drunk. There was a park, some sprinklers on a timer… the usual.” Beca shrugged. “But first, tell me everything that happened after she got you to the table.”

“There’s nothing,” Aubrey said. “We just declared a truce; she told me how to take care of my foot. We exchanged basic info-”

“Except phone numbers,” Beca interjected.

“-like our occupations but no… no phone numbers.”

“Then how are you going to find each other again?” Beca said as they waited for a light.

“Well, I know where she is at least some of the time.” Aubrey shrugged. “Plus she’s best friends with Chloe, so I could ask her for her number.”

“Wait – she’s friends with the woman who you did not ask out for the past year? But you’ll ask said woman for her best friend’s number?” Beca laughed. “I love you, please never change.”

“Hm,” Aubrey considered. “Good point. But her cousin Emily works there. We talk every time I see her, so I could do that if I really wanted.”

“Why would you not?” Beca turned onto Aubrey’s street.

“I don’t know. She didn’t ask for mine either.” But Aubrey didn’t think it was due to lack of interest. “Maybe we’re just going to let fate decide. Since she’s known Chloe forever, and we’ve only met twice in the year plus I’ve been going there, maybe it isn’t meant to be.”

Beca waited until she’d pulled up in front of Aubrey’s house and turned off the car before answering. “I was wrong before – your whole first encounter is definitely a meet cute.” She ignored Aubrey’s sound of protest and kept talking. “And you guys had chemistry that I could see in the whole five minutes I was in your presence. I really did think she was going to kiss you before she boosted you onto the seat.”

“Me too,” Aubrey muttered. “I swayed.”

“I saw.” Beca grinned at her. “You literally fell into her arms as she saved your life… But because you’re a useless gay you didn’t ask for her number.”

“I did invite her to karaoke…” Aubrey trailed off.

“Oh, maybe not so useless after all.” Beca said approvingly. “I’m so proud of you!”

“Well, her, Chloe and Emily.” Aubrey pursed her lips. “There may have been some panic involved.”

“Annnd now it’s back. We’re going to have a long talk after I get you settled and stocked for a week.” Beca opened her door. “Are the crutches in the garage?”

“I think they’re in the spare room,” Aubrey said after a moment’s thought. “If I needed them I didn’t want to search the whole garage for them.”

“Alright,” Beca hopped out of the truck. “I’ll be back. Don’t go anywhere.”

“Ha. Ha.” Aubrey flipped her off as she closed the door. She watched Beca go into her house and settled back in the seat. It was annoying that Beca was right.

She had already begun to fall for the bell thief and that wasn’t like her at all. Aubrey Posen was a woman who never did anything without a thoroughly thought out plan of attack.

‘No,’ she reminded herself. ‘That’s who you used to be. You came here to be different. More spontaneous. This will work out how it’s supposed to.’

And as much as she’d panicked at the thought of asking Stacie out on a date – which since Beca would be there it’s not like it’d be an actual date – there was a calm space at the center of her thoughts. One that was telling her she’d meet Stacie again – soon – and her life would change for a second time.

Aubrey was surprised to realize how much she was looking forward to that moment.

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A/N:  I've officially reached the end of things I had already written, so my '10 days between posts" is no more. I've been working a lot of overtime at work and hadn't counted on how completely it would suck any ounce of creativity out of me, so please forgive the length between posts. I swear it will be finished and not abandoned though!

(x)