#tobias x ethan

[jerzwriter]

Thank you to @snoopdogcone for this ask. For @choicesprompts Flufftober event: Drunken confessions. This is a follow-up (of sorts) to Edenbrook Mysteries: The Secret Admirer

Book: Open Heart (Post Series) Characters: Tobias Carrick & Ethan Ramsey Rating: Teen Words: 751 Summary: Tobias & Ethan remain behind at the bar after a retirement party ends, and Tobias has some news to share.

A/N: Participating in @choicesmonthlychallenge Laughter & warm hugs.

My Masterlist | OH Masterlist

The crowd at the dimly lit bar had thinned out, and the raucous laughter that had filled the air just hours before had been replaced with the soothing sounds of a jazz trio and ambient chatter. But as Ethan and Tobias were about to make clear, the reasons to celebrate this evening were far from over. With car service lined up, they ordered another round despite their dubious state.

“I still can’t believe Dr. Santos is... retiring,” Ethan slurred, raising his glass to his colleague. “The man’s in his prime!”

"In his prime?" Tobias chuckled, though nothing funny had been said. “The man’s old as dirt.”

“He’s seventy-three!” Ethan replied, looking offended.

“Right,” Tobias smirked, sipping his whisky. “Practically a schoolboy.”

“Speaking of schoolboys,” Ethan nudged. “I heard you have some competition! Has Connor stopped laying it on thick with Casey?”

Tobias snorted. “Oh, yeah! My 10-year-old romantic rival? I’m taking that kid down, don’t you worry.”

“Do you expect me to be impressed?” Ethan teased. “You can one-up a fourth-grader. What are you going to do? Distract him with Fortnite?”

Tobias shook his head, giggling in a way that only occurred when he had a few too many. “Nope,” he said, leaning into Ethan. “I’m doing something BIGGER. WAY bigger. And I need you to do it.”  

Ethan quirked an eyebrow. “Are you propositioning me, Carrick?”

Tobias laughed so hard he almost spilled his drink. “You fucking wish! No! I’m not propositioning you, Ethan. But... there is a question involved.”

“Well, in advance, you’re not my type,” Ethan deadpanned.

“Well, I will be on Saturday,” Tobias brimmed with excitement. “Because I need your help. I’m going ring shopping... for Casey, and I want you to come along with me.”

Ethan’s eyes went wide, and it felt like he sobered right up. “Are you serious?”

“As a heart attack,” Tobias said, his voice more level. “I’m proposing to Casey, and you’re the first to know.”

Ethan broke into a smile. “You haven’t even told your mother? She’ll kill me if she finds out I knew before her!”

“Don’t worry,” Tobias chuckled with a pat on his friend’s back. “I’ll protect you... I need a best man, after all.”

Ethan turned toward Tobias, his face softened. “Your best man? Me?”

“Yeah,” Tobias grinned. “You were like a brother to me for a long time... and I think we’ve gotten back to that... in large part because of Casey, it only seems right.”

“I... I don’t know what to say,” Ethan muttered.

“Say yes! Just like I hope Casey will,” Tobias laughed.

“Of course, yes!” Ethan grinned, reaching out to shake Tobias’s hand.

“None of that handshake crap,” Tobias scoffed, pulling him into a hug. “This is bro-hug territory, buddy.”

“God, you’re insufferable,” Ethan muttered, but it didn't stop him from hugging.

“Goddamn! Tobias Carrick proposing, and hell hasn’t even frozen over!”

“Yeah, well, that’s probably due to global warming,” Tobias grinned. “But you’ve got to admit, I’ve changed.”

“Because Casey’s a miracle worker, in and out of the hospital,” Ethan smiled. “She made an honest man out of you, after all!”

“She’s the best,” Tobias said softly, his smile tender. “I love her, Ethan. More than I thought possible.”

A slow grin spread over Ethan’s face. “So, Saturday. What do you need me for? Moral support? Picking out engagement rings isn’t something I have a lot of experience with.”

“And I do,” Tobias laughed. “If I’m going to be a bumbling idiot, I want you to be by my side... being a bigger bumbling idiot.”

“Gee, thanks.”

“Anytime,” Tobias grinned. “Regardless, it’s going to be a great day!”

“It will be. Hey, Bartender!” Ethan called out with a wicked grin. “Another round! My friend’s getting married!”

Tobias laughed, waving him off. “You know what? Maybe we’re done with that part of the night. Besides, she has to say yes first.”

“Do you think there’s any doubt of that?” Ethan asked.

Tobias shrugged, flashing a grin. “Nah. I mean... look at this. How could she resist?”

“Aaand, there’s the Carrick we all know,” Ethan teased.

When they stumbled out of the bar, it felt like they were back in med school. Their laughter barrelled down Boston’s dark streets as if the years of troubles between them had all but washed away. Having Casey in his life was the best thing that ever happened to Tobias; he’d never deny that. But Ethan being his best friend again? It was a pretty darn close second.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

[alj4890]

Processing and Developing

(Ethan x F!MC) (Tobias Carrick x F!MC) in a Choices Open Heart one shot.

Taken from Book 3, Ines's wedding reception.

This one's for you, @jerzwriter 😉 I haven't forgotten our need for more Tobias. It's not good, but I finally broke the writer's block, LOL!

Masterlist

A/N I finally wrote something! 🤣 This idea came about last night when replaying Book 3. I always opt to have my MC, Chris, take a photo of just her and Tobias at Ines's wedding reception. Originally, I hoped this scene would open up a romance option with Tobias. Sadly, PB didn't give it to me, LOL, so this is how I wish things had gone down canon wise.

"You look like you could use this."

Chris turned around at the familiar voice. Her eyes darted over how handsome the man before her looked dressed to the nines in his blue suit. Humor lurked in the hazel depths of his eyes as he in turn noticed her taking every inch of him in.

Tobias exaggerated clearing his throat. He held up the two fruity cocktails in his hands and playfully shook one.

Chris smiled in response while reaching for the glass that had cherries and a pineapple spear sitting on the rim.

Tobias lifted it out of her reach.

He clucked his tongue in mock disapproval. "Hold on. You know what you have to do to earn this."

Chris's smile dimmed. She wasn't certain if it was the fact they were guests at Ines's romantic Hawaiian wedding or that her hopeful imagination was getting the better of her again. Something though was different between Tobias and herself. The pair had always bantered back and forth and enjoyed the sharp wit of the other. Somehow along the way, the teasing took on a slight sexual edge.

She couldn't help but think he was attractive. Even when she first deemed him the enemy the year before, she found him incredibly sexy. Now that she was coming to know the type of man he truly was, she knew she was falling hard for Tobias.

She wasn't the only one feeling this way.

Tobias had been playing the long game with Chris. He'd thought her cute the first time he'd seen her at Leland Bloom's home. Going head to head with her and Ethan had been one of more enjoyable aspects of his job. Each time he saw her after that, though she glared at him, made him want to know her even more.

After the attack, her attitude changed towards him. He found himself the recipient of her warm smiles and good natured teasing. Even while fighting for her life, she never lost her sense of humor.

He admired her spirit, her mind, and to no one who knew him's surprise, her body.

The moment he joined Edenbrook's diagnostic team, he was finally able to see if his brief impressions of Chris were accurate. The more time he spent with her, the more he saw why there were a few at Edenbrook with feelings for her. She made it easy to fall head over heels.

Normally, he'd have already made his move. Given their close work relationship and the fact he suspected Ethan and Chris had an interesting past, he held back. When it came to Chris, he didn't want any competition, whether it be a literal person or one of secret pining for said person.

If things were to work out like he thought, he'd want Chris's heart and mind for himself. There would be no other way he could be with her.

It's odd, he thought to himself. Normally I'd be all for having her without any expectations or even caring if she wanted someone else.

But now...

"What do I have to do?" Chris interrupted his thoughts.

A slight blush graced her cheeks from the way he was looking at her.

Tobias pointed towards the photo booth.

One look at his suspicious smile made Chris double over with laughter.

"You found the box of props, didn't you?" She asked between giggles.

"You bet I did." He chuckled. "What do you say we drag Ethan and Harper in there and get a team photo."

"You really think you can get Ethan to don a wig and clown nose?" She asked.

"Nope." He grinned at her. "Even I'm not that persuasive."

"I don't know," she teased. "From my experience, you have quite a way about you."

Her smile grew the longer she looked at him.

"You've already got me agreeing to not only get in that photo booth, but also help you convince our more serious team members to join us."

"Then my charm is finally being used for good." He handed her a cocktail with a wink. "Let's take a dose of liquid courage and make our attack."

*************

"No." Ethan told them. "I prefer to keep my dignity intact."

"Dignity is overrated." Tobias teased.

Harper shook her head over that statement. "I'm all for a team photo, but I would like it to represent us in a more positive, respectful light."

Chris rolled her eyes. "Honestly, I think having such a picture would show our patients we're people too, ones with an excellent sense of humor."

"Our patients don't care about whether or not we have a sense of humor." Ethan argued. "They only want us to make them feel better. Nothing more, nothing less."

"Spoil sports." Tobias muttered. "Well Chris, it's up to me and you to show these two how to have fun."

Harper snorted in amusement. "I'll take my fun with getting another drink."

She waved goodbye on her way to the open bar.

Before he could engage the pair in a conversation, Ethan watched as Tobias grabbed Chris's hand and dragged her into the booth. His brow furrowed when he noticed they'd forgotten to grab props for their fun photo.

Curious about what they were doing behind the closed curtain, he went to watch the line of photos start to appear.

The first photo was of the two of them laughing. The second one had a more normal smile. The third one made him pause. The pair were looking at each other in a way he didn't want to contemplate. In fact, the image showed that Tobias was looking at the young lady beside him as if seeing her for the very first time.

Ethan's feelings for Chris had never died. If anything, they'd gotten stronger over time. He worked hard to keep things professional and continued to keep her at arm's length. It was difficult given how often they were together at work, but he knew it was for the best.

The fourth picture made his heart sink. The two in the booth were closer than before with heads tilted as if they were about to--

"Ethan?"

He spun away from his worst fears developing in the fifth picture. Harper eyed him for a few seconds before moving to see what held his attention.

Her eyes widened over the photograph of Tobias and Chris sharing a passionate kiss.

"Oh!" She exclaimed. "I had no idea they were together."

A muscle spasmed in Ethan's jaw.

"Excuse me." He bit out.

He left the reception with quick strides. The sound of the waves hitting the shore nor the warm breeze blowing did little to calm the emotions roiling within. He wished his curiosity had not gotten the better of him. Tonight could have ended with him simply dreaming about all the things he would have liked to have done with Chris if they'd been a couple.

Ethan briefly closed his eyes. He knew exactly how their night would have gone.

He would have been her date to the wedding. There would have been hints that one day they might like to have a destination wedding like Ines and Angie. They'd have spent the reception basking in the romantic atmosphere. Slow dances would have been shared. Flirting would have led to them slipping away shortly before the cake was cut.

Chris would have teased him that he better make it up to her for missing out on wedding cake. Ethan would have done so with a moon lit walk on the beach followed by retiring to their shared suite. He'd then have spent the entire night making love to her, proving that his heart was fully hers.

Ethan shook himself out of his pointless thoughts. He'd made his choice two years earlier. He could have had everything he wanted if he'd only considered that Chris was different from any other woman he'd known. Now he was left with longing for what might have been.

He eased into the shadows when he heard footsteps combined with Chris's laughter approaching.

"And just where are you taking me, Dr. Carrick?" Chris asked with a flirty lilt to her voice.

"Someplace where we can't be interrupted." Tobias paused to pull her back into his arms.

The two shared a deep kiss.

A moan, Ethan recalled all too well having once in his life caused, slipped out of Chris. That sound was embedded in his mind. He never imagined hearing another man cause it. It hurt worse than he could have imagined, knowing it wasn't because of his own lips touching hers.

"I think I know what's going to happen when we get behind a locked door." She said softly, all teasing gone. "But what happens when the sun rises?"

Ethan winced at the memory of Chris asking him that very question years ago. After a night proving how perfectly they fit together in every single fashion, he responded that they would go back to their lives as if nothing had happened between them.

He couldn't see his former best friend and roommate wanting anything more than a one night stand. Perhaps, Ethan could still hold on to what he longed for most in this world.

Tobias shocked him with his response.

"I will take you out for breakfast." He pressed a tender kiss to her lips. "That way we can talk about our new relationship."

Chris stilled.

"Relationship?" She asked hesitantly.

"I want more than tonight with you." Tobias held her close. "I want you to be mine, no one else's."

Ethan watched Chris's face fill with joy. With a slight gasp, she kissed Tobias with all the love she'd kept for the one who could give her what she wanted.

The new couple hurried into the hotel.

Ethan moved out of the shadows. He couldn't quite wrap his head around all that had occurred within the last hour.

Why didn't I ask Chris to dance earlier? Why didn't I agree to do the asinine picture? Would it have stopped her getting with Tobias?

He knew that Bryce had gone after Chris. Seeing them together hadn't hurt. Bryce was completely different from Ethan. Though they were both doctors, their studies didn't line up. He knew he'd never have Bryce's fun loving swagger. In his eyes, he knew it wasn't a competition between them for Chris's affection.

With Tobias, it was a huge blow to Ethan's ego. The two were too similar. Both were highly intelligent, loved the mystery diagnostics allowed them to pursue, and they had similar temperaments.

"Not anymore." Ethan muttered to himself.

Tobias had changed these last ten years. He still was driven with his love of a good mystery, but he no longer lost his temper as quickly as he once had. There was no need to one-up Ethan over every single thing.

Ethan realized that Tobias had become a man he would actually enjoy being close to again.

How could he now? The man was with the woman he desperately loved.

"There you are!" Harper jogged up the path.

"Looking for me?" Ethan asked.

"I was worried about you." She admitted.

"I'm fine." He replied.

"Ethan." She gently touched his cheek. "It's me. You know you can talk to me. I can see you're upset."

He blinked, stepping away from her.

"I'm not upset." He snapped.

Her eyes narrowed. "I saw you and I saw what happened in that photo booth."

Ethan stiffened after shoving his hands in his pockets. He tried to walk away from someone else confirming his heartache. Harper was having none of it.

She placed a hand on his chest and stepped directly into his path.

"I saw, Ethan." She repeated. "I've seen how you look at Chris. Does she know you're in love with her?"

Ethan averted his eyes. Shaking his head, he heaved a deep sigh.

Harper softened her tone. "Why didn't you tell her?"

"There were many reasons." He muttered. "Though, none of them seem important now."

"You could still tell her." Harper argued. "What we saw was probably nothing more than just two people giving in to the romance of the evening. Tomorrow you can--"

He shook his head, silencing her halfhearted attempt to cheer him up.

"It's too late." He swallowed. "I've uh, I've burned a lot of bridges between me and Chris."

He glanced up at the hotel, wondering which room she was in.

"Someone else came along and gave her what she wanted."

Harper wrapped her arms around him in a comforting hug.

He didn't return it. After a few seconds, he untangled himself from her embrace.

"Ethan? It will get easier."

"Perhaps." He conceded. "For right now, I need to be alone."

He began to walk inside of the hotel. He knew it would be a torturous night in his lonely suite. He anticipated having many miserable nights the next few months since he now possessed front row seats for Chris and Tobias's new relationship. He knew deep down that no matter how much time passed, his heart would never fully heal.

When it came to Chris, it would always hurt.

[storyofmychoices]

Holiday Cheer 🎄 ❤️ 💚

My loveliest @jerzwriter and @lilyoffandoms, I adore you both so very much! I am grateful to this fandom for bring you both into my life! You both make this fandom a better place by being your amazing selves. Love you both!!!

I hope you enjoy this holiday art of our Open Heart babies by the always lovely, @weetlebeetle!

Holiday Cheer 🎄 ❤️ 💚

Prompts: Christmas: @choicesdecember2023, @choicesficwriterscreations, @choicesholidays, @choicesflashfics (holiday prompt, in bold)

Pairing: Bryce x Olivia , Ethan x Merida (@lilyoffandoms), Tobias x Casey (@jerzwriter)

Book: Open Heart

Word Count: >700

Rating/Warnings: general

Synopsis: Olivia, Merida, and Casey decide to decorate the Diagnostic Office.

The Diagnostic Office buzzed with festive energy as Olivia, Casey, and Merida decorated Ethan's office with holiday cheer. The trio, wearing holiday sweaters and festive headbands, worked diligently, preparing a surprise for their significant others. Boxes of decorations lay scattered across the room. In the center of the space lay a jumbled mess of tangled lights. 

Casey grappled with the relentless knots in the string lights, muttering under her breath. The more of the knots she freed, the more the lights seemed to conspire, weaving her into their tangled web.

Merida offered her assistance, teasing her friend playfully. "Making friends with the lights, Casey? Or are they plotting a holiday takeover?"

"They seem a formidable foe," Olivia chimed in, giggling as she watched Casey try to unravel a particularly tangled section.

"Ugh! I feel like neurosurgery would be easier than this," Casey joked, tediously separating the stubbornly intertwined wires.

Olivia added miniature ornaments to the long strands of garlands strewn around the rooms, her eyes sparkling with joy. "I can't wait to see their faces when they walk in." She clapped her hands enthusiastically, unable to contain her excitement. 

"Finally!" Casey jumped up, pumping her hands in the air in victory. She quickly gathered the lights, placing them in Olivia's arms. "They're all yours!" 

"My pleasure!" Olivia took the lights, holding them up in front of her, deciding on their perfect placement. 

A mischievous spark flickered in Casey's eyes as she caught Merida's attention. "Let's add a little extra surprise." She produced a small sprig of mistletoe from her bag.

Merida's brow arched. "Do you and Tobias really need another reason to be all over each other?"

"Oh, it's not for me," Casey teased, winking toward Merida. "I think we can all agree that a certain diagnostician would benefit from letting loose a little bit." 

"I'm not sure he'll share your sentiment, but I'm willing to risk it. Who knows, maybe we'll see our own Christmas miracle," Merida retorted. 

With stealthy precision, they positioned the mistletoe above the office doorway, chuckling at the playful addition to the festive decor.

The two stood beneath it, making sure it was safely secured, and somewhat out of sight. 

Merida's gaze shifted between the decor and Casey. "If this doesn't get Ethan's attention, I'm sure I could find someone else to take advantage of it with?" 

Casey shrugged coyly, curious by the prospect, "And, perhaps also even if he does!"

As the three friends finished up, the room transformed into a cozy haven adorned with twinkling lights and festive cheer.

Just then, the door swung open, and Bryce, Ethan, and Tobias entered, greeted by the sight of the dazzlingly decorated office. Their eyes widened in surprise and appreciation, well, at least for two of them.

“It looks like Santa threw up in here," Ethan grumbled. 

"It's festive," Tobias quickly defended, admiring the decorations. "You gotta lighten up, Scrooge."

"I wish someone would decorate the O.R. like this," Bryce added gleefully.

"You do realize that none of this is sterile," Ethan interrupted. “So unless you plan to risk your patients lives, you do not wish someone to decorate the O.R.”

"Ignore him," Bryce wrapped his arms around Olivia, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "It's beautiful." 

Ethan sighed, rubbing the space between his brows. He was truly outnumbered. He always was, but sometimes he had Olivia on his side. Not this time. “...It can stay," he mumbled reluctantly.

"It really wasn't an option," Casey smirked. 

Ethan stepped further into his office, but his movements were halted.

"Not so fast—" Merida sauntered forward, pressing Ethan back under the doorway once more. "I believe you owe me a kiss." 

"That's a juvenile tradition," he protested.

"Are you refusing? You know that's bad luck."

"You know I don't believe in luck."

Merida shook her head; she wanted to scold him but this was who he was, and she loved him for it. Her fingers flirted with his tie a moment, before she pulled him down to her, her lips crashing against his.

Their embrace was met by whistles and howls from their friends. The pair ignored them, their lingering kiss enduring.

Casey turned to Tobias, her voice soft, "Merry Christmas." Her lips met his tenderly. 

Olivia leaned further into Bryce, letting the warmth and comfort of his embrace engulf her as she marveled at the beautiful lights and displays surrounding them. 

Their jobs weren't always easy, and sometimes things could seem bleak, but right now, surrounded by their friends and such a cheerful display, everything seemed just right.

[openheartfanfics]

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Oct 12 - 18, 2024  

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

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Sienna x M!OC

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

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

_

SUBMIT OPEN HEART FICS & WRITERS HERE

[genevievemd]

The Tortured Men’s Department

A/N: it’s me. Hi.

This is for @jerzwriter cause she’s my bestie and we have a joke going that her Tobias and my Ethan should meet because they’re essentially married to the same person 😂 also totally inspired by the texts she posted yesterday between her Tobias and Casey

Enjoy the nonsense fam

Also technically T is referencing about Camila (who’s also currently pregnant with their second) but I didn’t mention her so that if you squint it could be Elsa and I’s AU joke lol

[liaromancewriter]

Have a Punny Day

Premise: Cassie and Tobias go overboard with food puns.

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Tobias Carrick, F!MC (Cassie Valentine); feat. Ethan Ramsey Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Words: 800

A/N: One of the readers on AO3 asked once if I'd consider writing a Tobias and Cassie interaction, similar to the food puns chapter in book 3. This fic is inspired by that ask. Submission for @choicesmaychallenge24 prompt 'mania' for the use of too many puns and uncontrollable laughter. 😂

Cassie Valentine was run off her feet. As a third-year resident and junior fellow at Boston’s prestigious Edenbrook Hospital, her free time was increasingly being squeezed ahead of graduation. Suddenly, it seemed as if the faculty was determined to dump all their knowledge onto departing minds.

That would have been helpful when she was a clueless intern three years ago. But now, after working with Ethan Ramsey on the most complex medical cases and performing hundreds of procedures, she no longer needed to know when arterial was preferred over central venous line placement.

She scarfed down a banana she’d grabbed from the breakroom between patients and wished it was a chocolate bar instead. What possessed her to give up chocolate for Lent?

Max, that’s what. The bastard had dared her, and she’d fallen for his sneaky insinuations like the gullible idiot she was.

Swallowing down the last bite of the slightly mushy fruit, she disposed of the peel and headed toward the north elevator bank. The buzzing of her pager with a message to report to the Diagnostic Team office had her changing directions.

A short while later, she swiped the access card and rushed into the glass-walled office, breathless from her dash up three flights of stairs.

“Whoa. Cake it easy, Valentine,” Tobias Carrick called out in alarm from the conference table, forking up a chocolate cake.

Cassie watched him in bemusement. “Did you just say ‘cake’ it easy?”

“Oops. Must have had cake on my mind.” He toasted her with his fork, going back for seconds.

Cassie shrugged, joining him at the round conference table. “I’m a layer back kind of person, Carrick.”

Tobias grinned wolfishly. “Well, you’re butter than me.”

He saw her staring hungrily at the cake and pushed the plate toward her. “It’s Maureen’s birthday. I managed to confiscate this from the nurses’ lounge— with great difficulty, I might add. If they find out, I’m in dip chip.”

Cassie snorted at the pun. “What’s life without a few whisks, right?”

Tobias chuckled. “A little cheesy, but grate effort. Here, I grabbed two forks.”

Shaking her head, she pushed the plate away. “Thanks, but my brother challenged me to give up something for Lent. In my not-so-infinite wisdom, I picked chocolate.”

“Yogurta be kidding me!” His mouth dropped open. “I didn’t peg you for being religious, especially with Ethan being agnostic.”

“Anything’s pastable.” Cassie laughed, amused at the hypothetical scenario of Ethan going to church with her. “Besides, it’s not about religion——and if you tell my mother I said that, you’re a dirty, rotten liar,” she warned with a steely-eyed look, pretending to crack her knuckles for effect.

“Max just knows how to push my gumdrop buttons, and we made a bet. I’m not giving him the satisfaction of rolling in the dough,” she added with a secret relish.

Tobias raised his eyebrows. “If you’ve given up chocolate, you must feel pretty desserted.”

“Tell you what.” He pushed his chair back and picked up the paper plate. “Consider this a gesture of my friend-chip.”

So saying, he walked out the sliding glass doors and dumped the rest of the cake into the trashcan outside.

“You’re one in a melon, Tobias,” Cassie said, her lips curled in a friendly smile. “Donut let anyone tell you otherwise.”

“And another one bites the crust.” Tobias winked lasciviously, his voice dropping into a familiar flirtatious tone. “Knew my charm would rub off on you one of these days, Cassie. Admit it. I’ve got you wonton more.”

“Oh, beet it, Carrick!” Cassie burst into laughter, throwing her head backward.

Tears gathered at the corners of her eyes as she tried to still the laughter, but it was a losing battle as Tobias joined her, his deeper chuckles mingling with her lighter ones.

When Ethan and Baz Mirani walked into the diagnostic team’s office a few minutes later, they came to a standstill and stared perplexed. The other half of the team was doubled over in their chairs; bodies wracked in uncontrollable laughter.

“Have you noticed how unruly the team has become since Carrick joined us?” Ethan mused, raising an eyebrow as he glanced from Cassie to Tobias.

Baz folded his arms, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Well, we could use a break from the usual grind of life and death.”

“I’ll never understand how one person can cause such chaos,” Ethan shook his head, crossing the carpeted floor to stand at the front of the conference table.

Noticing the others had joined them, Cassie and Tobias slowly collected themselves. Their laughter died down to occasional chuckles as they shared one final amused glance before turning to give their attention to Ethan, the levity of the moment settling into a comfortable workday hum.

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

All Fics & Edits: @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @jerzwriter @lady-calypso

@mainstreetreader @peonierose @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16

@justyourusualash @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @youlookappropriate

[choices-ceri]

Ethan x MC this... Tobias x MC that... when you're all missing the obvious solution which is a polyamorous relationship.

[peonyblossom]

tobias: would you still love me if i was a worm? ethan: i don't love you now

[cariantha]

The Team

My FC is rarely in the spotlight anymore, so I was super excited to find a new and recent photo of her today. It inspired this manip of the Book 3 diagnostics team.

[jerzwriter]

Thank you to @kyra75 for this request from @choicesprompts Flufftober event - prompt: Secret Admirer for Tobias x Casey. It was a lot of fun to write this sweet little story. I'm writing a "sort of" follow-up to this for @snoopdogcone's last prompt request, too! I hope you enjoy it!

Book: Open Heart (Post Series Timeline) Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish (F!MC) Featuring: Ethan Ramsey Rating: General Words: 1,300 Summary: Casey's got a secret admirer, and Tobias is determined to find out who it is.

A/N: Also participating in @choicesmonthlychallenge Flufftober - Prompts: Warm hugs, handwritten letters.

It started small: a few handwritten notes left on Casey’s desk that eventually progressed to a series of little gifts. First was a tiny stuffed unicorn with huge blue eyes, “Just like yours!” the accompanying note read. The next day, it was a bag of Geysers candy with a big bow and a tiny card that read, “Roses are red, Violets are blue, these candies are sweet, just like you!”   

Casey smiled as she picked it up. Assuming they were from a grateful patient, the lovely gestures made her smile, but Tobias’s antennas were up. “Case, these aren’t thank-you gifts; a patient would let you know who they were from,” he pointed out with a grin. “Someone’s got herself a secret admirer!”

“A secret admirer?” Casey chortled. “Tobias! Be serious. Everyone at Edenbrook knows I’m with you.” She sauntered over to him, straightening the lapels on his labcoat with a little grin. “And while you’re a very secure man and not the jealous type... you can also be a little... unhinged, darling. So, don't worry. No one here is messing with me.”

“Unhinged,” he chuckled, pulling her in for a warm embrace, his voice dropping low. “Only when I’m under the covers with you.”

Ethan walked into the office and let out a groan laced with disgust. “Someday, the two of you won’t work here, and I won’t have to greet each day with a spell of nausea.”

“Maybe?” Casey smiled, “but you would miss us!”

He put on his glasses and turned to her with a blank stare. “Maybe?”

“Hey,” Tobias asked. “What do you make of these gifts Casey’s receiving? You think someone’s got a little crush?”

“It's possible,” Ethan shrugged. “But Casey’s already shown she has questionable taste in suitors when she fell for you... so, I think you’re safe, Carrick.”

Tobias scoffed. “Safe?” he shook his head, glancing at himself in the mirror. “Of course I’m safe! I mean, look at me... and this isn’t even with my abs exposed....”

“Shall I get you the Pepto Bismol?” Casey whispered to Ethan.

“It would be appreciated,” he replied.

“I’m just saying... it's not that I'm jealous. But if someone’s got a crush on my girl. I think we should figure out who it is so the poor fool understands that they don’t have a chance.”

"You think it's Ron from Radiology, don't you," Ethan smirked.

"Mmh, Ron is kind of hot," Casey teased.

Tobias turned to them both, unamused. "Don't you worry, I'll get to the bottom of this!"

But the days kept coming, and the gifts kept coming with them. When a heart-shaped lollipop appeared on her desk, Tobias had enough... he was going to get to the bottom of this. “Alright, this is getting serious. Someone out there has a full-blown crush on you, and it’s time we investigate.”

Casey rolled her eyes. “They’re sweet gestures, babe, but it’s just someone being nice. You’re reading too much into it.”

“You know you’re beautiful, you’re brilliant, and I’m so glad you’re mine... but you’re a little naïve, dear. No one is doing all these things because they're being nice!”  

“Are you getting jealous, love?”

“No!” He insisted. “It’s not jealousy, but someone is leaving gifts for my girl. It’s about time they get the memo that she’s taken. It’s an act of kindness, really. Let them know they should move on to someone else, where they might stand a chance.”

“Yes, dear,” Casey chuckled as Tobias set off to find answers.

He passed Casey’s office frequently that day, enlisting some buddies to also serve as spies. But as the day was dwindling to an end, he was beginning to feel defeated when fate smiled upon him.

He was just finishing his rounds when he spotted Connor, a young patient of Casey’s, marching toward her office with a bouquet of flowers in hand. Casey had taken a liking to the boy, often stopping by his room after her shift to help him with homework or play a video game or two. A smile tugged on Tobias’s lips as he saw the light in the little boy's eyes.

“Hey, buddy!” Tobias smiled, mussing up Connor’s sandy blonde hair. “Are those flowers for Dr. MacTavish?”

Connor nodded with a smile despite his embarrassment. “Yeah…Dr. Casey is so nice, and, um, she’s really pretty, too. And she knows all about baseball and lets me play her playlist during my checkups.”

Tobias chuckled, crouching down to Connor’s level. “I don’t blame you, kiddo. Dr. Casey’s pretty awesome.”

Connor looked over his shoulder, then looked around again to ensure no one could hear him. “Do you know if she’s married?” he whispered.

Tobias’s eyes went wide. “Married? No. I don’t think she’s married. But I do know she’s loved the little gifts you’ve left her. She should be here any moment now. Why don't you deliver this one to her yourself? I’m sure she’d love that.”

“Do you think so?” Connor asked, his eyes wide.

“I do,” Tobias nodded. “Why don’t you sit here and wait.”

Tobias walked to the nurses’ station, pretending to review a folder, but his eyes never lost sight of the adorable little boy sitting on a chair outside of Casey's office.

Connor bit his lip nervously but still managed a smile when he saw Casey approaching her office. Tobias looked on as Connor timidly handed her the flowers, his cheeks turning red.

“Connor! Are these for me?” Casey beamed.

Connor couldn't muster up words, but his face lit up with joy as he nodded. Casey sat on the chair next to Connor and squeezed his little hand. “Are you the one who has been leaving me all the sweet notes and treats?”

The boy just nodded again.

“Well, I have to thank you. You’ve made me smile so many times this week. Thank you for that, Connor. You made me feel very special."

The boy looked up and caught Tobias watching. He smiled and gave the boy a quick thumbs-up.

“Well, you’ve made me smile, too, Dr. Casey. Do you think we could play video games later?”

Casey gave him a little squeeze. “You better believe we will! In fact, why don’t I bring some of the Geysers you gave me? We can share them!”

“Can we?” he said, eyes wide with excitement.

“Of course!”

The boy jumped off Casey’s lap and rushed to his room, his heart pounding with pride as he gave Tobias a high five along the way.

Casey’s heart was full of warmth as she locked eyes with Tobias, gesturing toward her office. As soon as the door was closed, she wrapped her arms around his neck. “So, you solved the mystery, Sherlock. Looks like my admirer is an adorable young man, after all!”

“Yep,” Tobias grinned. “I like him! The kids got great taste. But I don’t have to worry, do I?”

Casey playfully mulled it over before kissing her boyfriend’s cheek. “Luckily for you, younger men aren’t my thing. I like more into old men, like you.”

“Old man,” he growled, pulling Casey flush against him as his lips fell to her neck, leaving a not-so-tender kiss behind. “I’ll show you, old man!”

Casey giggled as she playfully pushed him away. “Well, if I have any other secret admirers, I know who to turn to. But for now, maybe let’s let my pint-sized Romeo keep his little crush.”

“Deal,” Tobias laughed. “But I'm watching him! I mean, the kids got game. If I take him under my wing, he could be a master by the time he's in high school.”

“T,” Casey laughed. “Leave him be! He’s doing just fine on his own, and, besides, the world can only handle one Tobias Carrick.”

“You've got a point,” Tobias grinned. “But if Connor ever needs a pep talk, I’m going to have his back!”

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

[alj4890]

OK, OK, OK... your assignment, if you choose to accept it:

An alternate version where Ethan bursts into the photo booth between pics 3 and 4.

I want this, but I'm shivering in fear that it will impede my beloved T/C. Of course, the original is canon in my mind; this would be sliding doors... and I still hope T/C end up together! lol)

GIRL, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME TODAY!!!! lol

*rolls up my sleeves and digs deep into my angsty bag of tricks all while cackling*

Alright @jerzwriter , I wasn't sure where this one would go when I started it, but here's where we ended up. I think this is how it would have gone down with Ethan bursting in. Some things are inevitable after all.

Original Version of Processing and Developing

Song Inspiration for this (since I'm a sucker for a good angst driven song): Without You by Henry Nilsson

Masterlist

Processing and Developing: Interrupted

Ines and Angie's Wedding reception...

They didn't take any props.

Ethan eyed the photo booth that Tobias had pulled a more than willing Chris into.

There were only a couple of reasons two people went into a photo booth together, and the one he suspected had him walking over to either prove or disprove his theory.

The first picture showed Tobias and Chris laughing.

That's not too alarming, Ethan thought. After all, they are the only two people I know who manage to always find humor in the most mundane things in life.

The second one revealed the pair actually posing for an average, smile filled picture.

Normal reaction to a camera flashing, Ethan thought with relief.

The third one revealed the couple looking at one another.

Wait. Tobias is looking at her like he might be falling for her. And Chris...she...are they going to...

The curtain being jerked back caused Tobias and Chris to jump apart. Ethan stood a touch breathless in the opening. He didn't know why he reacted like this. He only knew some previous, unknown fear was about to manifest itself.

His eyes darted back and forth between the two.

Were they about to kiss?

"Ethan?" Tobias asked. "Is something wrong?"

"I changed my mind." He declared after a few seconds of mad scramble for a reason for bursting in on them. "Let's, um, let's get that team photo you wanted."

"Hold on!" Chris reached out to stop him before he could go find Harper. "You're really willing to do a goofy picture?"

"We can do both." Ethan decided. "One for you two and one that Harper and I wouldn't mind hanging in the office."

Tobias chuckled over that compromise.

"Are you saying the goofy one won't be part of our officer's decor?"

Ethan rolled his eyes. "I have no doubt that someone," he glanced at Chris, "or some people, will find a way to have it hanging in a different spot each day."

"And multiple copies of said picture in case someone throws it away each day." Tobias added.

Chris snorted on her laughter. She had no doubt that Tobias would come up with new and ingenious ways to keep the picture they originally wanted in place.

Her partner in crime smiled at her while waving Ethan out of the booth.

"Go grab Harper. Chris and I will make sure to keep the booth occupied."

Ethan's jaw spasmed at the mere thought of leaving them alone. After what almost occurred, he didn't trust Tobias to make another move on Chris. With the way she was looking at Tobias in that picture, Ethan doubted she'd offer any resistance.

She might even encourage him.

"Why don't you go through the box of props while I find Harper?" He countered, doing his best to avoid his real reason for getting them out of the perfect spot to share an illicit kiss. "I'll let you choose what we're to wear."

Tobias's jaw dropped. He could hardly believe Ethan would give him that much power after all he'd done to him during their college years.

Still, who was he to argue with this unexpected gift?

"Sounds like a plan." Tobias rose off the bench.

He held his hand out to Chris.

"Ready to make this the best picture ever, Valentine?"

Her delighted smile made Ethan feel both relieved and slightly guilty. He tried not to notice that not only did she readily take Tobias's hand, but also kept it there as they exited the booth. He also noticed that it took all of his own willpower to walk away from them to find Harper.

He glanced back at the pair a couple of times as he made his way through the wedding guests. They were eagerly going through the various wigs, clown noses, and oversized glasses. Their laughter drifted over the music and buzz of conversations.

"I see you decided to join me." Harper said once he reached her side. "Want me to order you a drink?"

"No." His eyes remained on the pair. "I actually came to--"

Damn it.

He shouldn't have left them alone.

Chris was trying on a curly green wig. She placed a hand on her hip, sticking it out to one side while placing her other hand behind her head. Playfully fluttering her eyelashes, she said something that Ethan didn't doubt was flirtatious. If he was to go by Tobias moving closer to study her, he knew what she said was working.

Tobias's teasing smirk softened as he leaned down to look directly into her eyes.

Even from where Ethan was, he could see the blush cover her face and neck.

Chris blinked and asked what he was looking at.

Ethan knew what it was. Those gray-green eyes of hers could cause anyone to pause. He'd found himself momentarily tongue-tied a time or two, especially if she wore something green. That color set her eyes off to perfection.

Though it was a cheap, bright green wig, he knew it must have done the trick in capturing Tobias's attention.

"We're going to take a picture." Ethan muttered when Harper tugged on his sleeve to get his attention.

"We are?" She asked in utter disbelief. "But I thought--"

Ethan grasped her arm and pulled her away from the bar.

Wide eyed, Harper was struck speechless over his unusual behavior.

As they approached, they heard the last bit of Tobias's compliment to Chris.

"...not only mesmerizing, but absolutely gorgeous."

Ethan silently cursed. He was forced to watch as the praise of those incredible eyes made Chris shy. A hint of a smile played about her lips as she averted those very eyes from Tobias.

"I um, thank y--"

"Are we doing this or what?" Ethan demanded.

All three stared at him in surprise. His harsh tone was difficult to ignore.

"Are you sure you want to?" Chris asked.

Ethan looked at her. Grimacing over being unable to hide his irritation over seeing her flirt with another man, which was ridiculous since he'd been the one to keep her in the colleague/friend zone, he gave a curt nod. He didn't trust himself to actually answer her and reveal how much he wanted her.

Harper glanced back and forth between him and Chris. Her brow furrowed the longer she studied Ethan. She couldn't recall seeing him so agitated over taking a simple picture.

Chris mentally groaned. She didn't know why Ethan was being more moody than usual. She was tired of never knowing what would set him off. In the past, when she tried to get closer to him, he became irritated. When she stayed away, he became sullen. She wished she knew the appropriate relationship to have with him so she could stop walking on eggshells every single time he was around.

Reaching up, she tugged the wig off her head and did her best to smooth her hair down.

"We'll just take a professional picture." Chris decided. "We won't make you and Harper miserable."

Harper opened her mouth to argue that she didn't mind getting a little silly.

Ethan spoke up before she did.

"Let's get this over with."

Tobias snorted. "No need to sound too excited, Ethan."

Ethan glared at him. He knew he sounded like an ass right now. He didn't need any snarky remarks pointing that fact out. What he wanted, he couldn't have. Wasn't he allowed to be human and regret what he'd done?

With a clenched jaw, Ethan walked into the photo booth and sat down on the bench.

He then noticed the new problem the four of them would have.

There wasn't enough room for everyone to sit down.

"Hmm?" Harper squeezed in beside him while eyeing the lack of space. "I don't think we'll fit.

Chris stepped in next followed closely by Tobias.

"Uh oh." Chris mumbled as she glanced back at Tobias. "Now what's the plan?"

Tobias grinned as he sat down, almost squishing Harper between himself and Ethan. He reached up and pulled Chris into his lap.

"There." He brushed her hair back off her right shoulder and placed his chin upon it. He reached over to hit the start button. "Everyone, smile!"

Ethan couldn't do it. His blood boiled to see Chris sitting in another man's lap. He could do nothing but stare straight ahead.

No, he thought to himself. That isn't it.

It wasn't the fact she was in some random guy's lap. It was the fact that she was being practically cuddled by a man that Ethan felt could steal her away.

For good.

What is my end game here? I've been saying I couldn't be with her because of her career. She's soon going to take the boards and be done with her residency. Was I subconsciously planning to try and finally be with her?

Do I have a right to do that to Chris? Expect her to forget three years of rejection? Fall into my arms? Want me after all that?

Ethan's frown deepened as the camera flashed a third time. He couldn't think of anything he'd done to deserve her forgiveness for constantly telling her they couldn't be together after occasionally succumbing to temptation.

Chris glanced over at Ethan and noticed that he wasn't smiling. She reached past Harper before the final flash to poke his stubbled jaw.

He looked up at her.

Her smile, a ghost of the one she'd given him that long ago night in Miami appeared.

"Show off those famous Ramsey dimples." She ordered.

Unable to stop the smile creeping up at having her attention along with a reminder of how she'd once said his dimples could make a girl melt, he turned back to face the camera.

"One of those is bound to be good." Harper said once it was over. "I already have the perfect frame in mind we can use for it."

Chris eased out of Tobias's arms to see how their pictures turned out. The others followed her, each peering over her shoulders to see which one they looked the best in.

"It took five tries," Tobias teased, "but our fearless leader was finally able to remember how to pose in front of a camera."

Ethan rolled his eyes as he studied the images. He ignored himself and Harper to see how Tobias and Chris looked.

One picture had Tobias turned towards Chris. His lips were pressed to her cheek.

Ethan felt his heart sink to see that Chris had her eyes closed in that particular photo as if relishing the feel of his lips upon her skin.

"That last one is definitely the best." Chris declared, beaming at all of them.

She tore off the fifth one and handed it to Harper to frame once they returned to Boston.

Tobias reached over and plucked the remaining photos out of Chris's grasp.

Winking at her, he tore off the second picture and placed it in the inside pocket of his jacket.

"How about a dance?" He asked, taking Chris's hand once more.

"Love to." She waved goodbye to Ethan and Harper as they walked out towards the dance floor.

"I had no idea they were together." Harper said once they were out of earshot. "Did you?"

Ethan attempted to swallow the bitter lump forming in his throat.

"No. I didn't."

Harper looked up at him, seeing the pain etched in his handsome features.

"Ethan? Are you in lo--"

Her jaw dropped when he walked out on the dance floor to cut in on the beginning of Tobias and Chris's slow dance.

With a friendly smile, Tobias stepped back and let him take his spot.

Ethan placed one hand at the lower part of Chris's back while taking her hand in his other. On the beat, he guided her in a slow box step.

Chris's smile began to dim as she noticed how serious he looked.

"Ethan, what's--"

"Don't." He pleaded. "Please, don't say a word."

He pressed her closer to him, fingers tightening around hers.

"Just let me have this moment." He whispered in her ear. "And then I'll let you go back to Tobias."

Chris's steps faltered for a moment. As if knowing how much it would hurt Ethan if she stopped dancing to question the current mood he was in, she got back into rhythm with him. Lacing her fingers with his, she gently squeezed his hand while resting her cheek against his.

She knows, he thought, that this is the end.

Ethan closed his eyes. He knew if he'd only given in to what they'd once both wanted, this dance would simply be one of many they would have shared. There would have been stolen kisses as their bodies brushed against one another's. He knew Chris, being her affectionate self, would have insisted on remaining in his arms the rest of the night.

And he knew he'd never have let her go.

As the last chords played, their steps stilled.

Ethan swallowed before forcing himself to lift his head away from hers.

Their eyes met. As much as he hoped to see that old flicker of desire in those green depths, he felt a little relieved that there was nothing but a somewhat sad understanding reflected in them. He was for once not the one to push her away from what could be.

She somehow managed to smile at him as she stepped out of his arms.

The small space between seemed to widen with what he knew was inevitable.

"Thank you for the dance." She said softly.

"I should be thanking you." He replied, longing to pull her back for another.

Before he could say anything else, she turned around to search the crowd.

He felt his heart sink into what would be its now permanent state when Tobias appeared to ask her if she'd like to take a walk with him down on the beach.

Chris nodded, her smile once again returning to its former joy, and took his offered hand.

Without looking back, the pair disappeared into the night.

A little while later, Harper joined Ethan at the bar.

Noticing the grim set of his lips, she wondered what would help him in this moment.

"Ethan?"

"Hmm?"

Harper placed her hand over his. "Why didn't you tell Chris?"

Not meeting her concerned gaze, he merely shrugged.

"It's too late for anything like that."

Harper shook her head. "It's never too late."

"This time, you're wrong." He replied. "Whatever Chris once felt for me is nothing compared to what she now feels for Tobias."

She grimaced. "From what he was saying earlier, he has fallen for her pretty hard."

Ethan's eyes widened. "Tobias actually talked to you about it?"

"I asked him about their relationship. He was more than willing to talk about what she means to him. Tobias told me that the more time he spent working with Chris, the more he realized she was the only one for him."

Ethan closed his eyes against that information. Taking a deep breath, he finished off his glass of scotch and got to his feet.

"Then it's just like I said." He turned to leave. "It's too late to tell Chris how I feel."

With that, he made his way back to the hotel.

[storyofmychoices]

Harmony of Hearts

Pairings: Bryce x Olivia, Ethan x Merida (@lilyoffandoms), Tobias x Casey (@jerzwriter) Book: Open Heart Word Count:>800 Rating/Warnings: general (only warning is bad song writing, I'm not a song writer 🤷‍♀️)

Synopsis: Tobias, Ethan, and Bryce surprise the ladies with a song they wrote for them.

"Not so fast, Ramsey–" Tobias's arm shot out in front of the head of diagnostics, blocking his path to the door.

"We all agreed to this," Bryce added, folding his arms as he leaned against the wall, a playful smirk playing on his features. "For what it's worth, I think you sound good."

The blue-eyed doctor's brows narrowed, and his lips pulled into a frown, although the corner of his lips betrayed the sentiment. "It's not too late to book a spa weekend."

"You know this will mean more. And, isn't today about celebrating them?" Tobias turned Ethan back toward the living room. Bryce followed closely behind as Tobias led the way, keeping Ethan trapped between them.

The guys gathered together, each holding a worn piece of paper as they stood in front of the couch where the girls had gathered. Their light-hearted conversation quieted as their attention curiously shifted. 

"It was your idea, Lahela—" Tobias nudged him forward. "Would you like to do the honors?

Warmly, Bryce stepped closer, his eyes filled with warm affection for his wife and their friends. "Today is not just any day—it's a day dedicated to celebrating the strength, grace, and brilliance of women around the world, but we couldn't let it pass without expressing our love for the incredible women in our lives."

Ethan's stoic expression softened to offer a nod of agreement with his colleague's words.

Bryce continued, picking up the ukulele that had been lying on the coffee table. "So, we've prepared a little something for you."

"It might not be Grammy-worthy," Ethan added, attempting to lower any expectations. "Songwriting wasn't covered at Hopkins."

Tobias couldn't resist a teasing grin, his eyes sparkling as he glanced at Casey. "Don't expect Taylor Swift-level lyric writing or an Era's tour performance. No outfit changes here! We're more like... 'shower karaoke on a Tuesday' level."

Casey shot Tobias a playful smirk, crossing her arms as she relaxed on the comfy couch. "Well, if it's shower karaoke on a Tuesday, then I expect nothing less than a chart-topping hit."

Bryce skillfully strummed the ukulele strings, each note resonating with a gentle warmth, the instrument itself echoing the affection he felt for Olivia. He nodded to Tobias, signaling he was up.

With a confident grin, Tobias cleared his throat, placing his paper on the end table. He knew the words well enough. His voice, smooth and melodic, filled the room:

🎶 "In a world of puzzles and diagnostic charts,

Casey, you're the melodic beat in my heart.

With your brilliance and laughter, you light up the day,

Here's a little song to say, 'I love you' in my own way."🎶

Casey's eyes sparkled with delight. She had always loved his voice when he sang along to songs they loved, but to have him write this for her—it was something altogether different, something she couldn't believe how much she needed (and now wanted more)

Ethan was next. He carefully adjusted his tie before stepping forward. The world-renowned physician wasn't used to such nerves. His fingers trembled slightly, holding the paper tightly in his hands. His gaze flickered between it and Merida.

🎶 "Merida, my love, you were once a mystery to me,

But in your eyes, now, all the answers I see.

Your brilliance and grace cannot be denied

My love for you, I could never hide."🎶

Merida, usually composed, had a soft smile drawing on her lips. She reached for Ethan's hand, squeezing in gratitude. "I love you," she mouthed the words quietly. His thumb brushed over her fingers.

Bryce looked at Olivia, his warmed with affection for her. His gentle touch on the ukulele continued:

🎶 "Olivia, my partner in this life's beautiful dance,

In the realm of hearts, you're my favorite chance.

With a scalpel in my hand, and every healing word,

It's our symphony of love, forever to be heard." 🎶

Olivia's eyes misted at the beautiful song. Her hands clasped over her heart as she marveled at the men and their song as they continued:

🎶 "Hand in hand, through thick and thin,

Together we stand, let the melody begin.

For the women we cherish, our hearts take flight, 

In the symphony of life, you're our greatest delight.

To Casey, Merida, and Olivia so dear,

With love, laughter, and the occasional tear.

With this song for you, our voices combine,

Forever grateful, forever thine." 🎶

The simple melody filled the room and the hearts of the girls. Olivia, Casey, and Merida exchanged surprised glances. Their initial amusement at the idea of them writing a song turned into genuine appreciation.

"Never again," Ethan grumbled to Tobias.

"We'll see about that," he offered with a wink. "Thursday's Karaoke night—I already signed us up!" 

Their conversation was cut short as Casey, Merida, and Olivia showered them with praise, offering each their own affections of gratitude for the thoughtful gesture and the words of admiration they'd forever hold dear.

[openheartfanfics]

Newly Added Fics

Jul 6 - 12, 2024

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

Bryce x F!MC

A Text of Reassurance - @storyofmychoices 📱

Olivia is feeling a little insecure so she texts Casey hoping to get some reassurance. Feat. Tobias Carrick x F!MC

Ethan x F!MC

Scratching the Itch - @cariantha 🦚Ⓜ

Sexual tension builds between Ethan and Sawyer in the weeks following their trip to Miami. [1.13]

Part 2

Kyra Santana

Beautiful Day - @liaromancewriter 🦚

When Kyra feels sorry for herself, a friend changes her perspective. Feat. F!MC

Rafael x F!MC

How Will I Live Without You - @rafasgirl23415 🎭🛸

Casey is finally in her final weeks of pregnancy as she faces the prospect of giving birth without Raf by her side.

Part 1

Tobias x F!MC

Anticipation - @alj4890 ☁

Tobias and Chris are about to have the first member of their family. [Domestic; Pregnancy]

Elmo's Special Visit - @storyofmychoices ☁

Olivia has two special guests join her in the Peds Ward! Feat. F!OC [Platonic]

Game On - @alj4890 ☁

It would take a lot to get Chris this violent, like, say, someone not only manipulating her but also hooking up with a doctor she's fallen for. Feat. June Hirata [2.8]

Movie? What Movie? - @jerzwriter ☁

Tobias & Casey are officially together and happy to be out in the open... but does that leave anyone safe? Join them on date night and find out.

Oops - @alj4890 ☁

Chris gets unexpected news. [3.10; Pregnancy]

Special Delivery - @jerzwriter ☁

Tobias is the first one home, and when the lights go out, he accidentally opens the wrong package, and he's in for quite a surprise.

The Dinner Party - @alj4890 ☁

Tobias invites the Diagnostics team for dinner.

You Heard, What! - @alj4890 ☁

When Tobias overhears something interesting, he goes directly to the one person he can tease.

Other Tobias Fics

Summer Haze - @jerzwriter ☁

Tobias Carrick wasn't known for taking relationships seriously - at this stage of his life - he was there for a good time, not for a long time. Feat. F!OC [Young Tobias]

_

SUBMIT OPEN HEART FICS & WRITERS HERE

[genevievemd]

A SaraVerse Update…

A/N: couldn’t think of a good title for this so here we are. Been thinking about the SaraVerse lately and after I asked @jerzwriter if I should give the Carrick’s another baby and she didn’t say no… here we are 😂

Just a little text edit to update everyone on the happenings of OPH Sara’s Version! If I remember next weekend, I’ll make some edits of the gala and staycation.

Also for those who have been paying attention, next weekend is when they finally conceive Lizzie 👀 tho they won’t know until the week before Christmas!

Oh and this means Baby Carrick #2 (which will be a girl - haven’t thought of a name yet) will only be about a month older than Lizzie! They’re gonna be besties

[coffeeheartaddict2]

When life has other plans (15/16)

DéJà Vu

Book: Open Heart (AU)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC Casey Valentine

Rating: Teen

Category: Fluffy angst

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

Word count: 1926

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

Disclaimer: Characters belong to Pixelberry.

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

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

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

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

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

“Something is clearly up Ethan.”

“I am fine, just did not sleep well.”

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

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

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

“Valentine, what’s up?”

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

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

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

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

Ethan was affronted.

“Is it that obvious?” Asked Ethan

“In a word, Yes.” Stated Tobias.

“I am fine…”

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

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

Anger flashed in Ethan’s eyes briefly.

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

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

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

Tobias slapped him.

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

“I am not…”

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I am not..”

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

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

“I really am an idiot aren’t I?”

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

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

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

Ethan nods his head in resignation.

“Thank you Tobias.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[lilyoffandoms]

When Husbands Become Prey (Tobias x Casey, Ethan x Merida, Bryce x Olivia)

Thank you for all you do to support writers and creatives in our fandom. Thank you for participating in this little event and sharing your stories with us! Don’t at me for the title! I told you I used it and I just couldn’t help myself 😂

Warning & A/N: Olivia belongs to @storyofmychoices. Only warnings would apply to anything said and written about Tobias x Casey. And while I don’t title my drabbles I had to for this one after seeing this. So shout out to @ladylamrian for making this title, and by extension, this drabble possible hehe

“They look bored,” Olivia said, taking a sip of wine, as she looked out across the room at the three standing near the bar.

Merida and Casey followed her gaze.

“Agreed that Tobias and Bryce do,” Merida laughed. “But that’s just Ethan’s face.”

Casey choked on her drink as Olivia hid her giggle politely behind her hand.

When Casey had recovered with a few pats on the back from both Merida and Olivia she asked with a smirk, “Want to liven things up for them?”

“Oh I’m in,” Merida matched her smirk.

“You don’t even know what she has in mind,” Olivia glanced around Casey between them to smile at Merida.

“It could only be one thing.”

“Rhys, I’m insulted!” Casey said mockingly. “Get your head out of the gutter.”

“Tell me I’m wrong,” Merida challenged.

“Okay, you’re not. But still, pretend. Occasionally. For my sake,” she smirked at Merida. “You in, Liv?” Casey asked turing to face her.

“I want to hear the plan first.”

“Nope. Decide now. In or out,” Casey smiled.

“I think it’s in AND ou-“

“Merida!” Olivia gasped.

“Tell me I’m wrong.”

“How much have you had to drink?” Olivia asked.

“A glass. This is just me, darling. Anything to keep me entertained at these snooze-fests.”

Olivia smiled brightly at her friend, “In and out?”

Merida nodded with a grin.

“I think that’s what Tobias has in mind right now judging by the look he’s throwing Case.”

“That’s just his face around her,” Merida responded between giggles.

“Okay, fine. I’m in,” Olivia gave in.

“Excellent,” Casey broke off looking at Tobias and clapped her hands. “I have a little wager. Point system as usual. Chaste public kiss, one point. Less than chaste public kiss, two points. Bit of public action, three points. Other behind closed doors action, four points. Anything that could or does get you arrested, automatic winner. Tally points at the end of the night and lowest buys dinner next group date night. Deal?”

“You’re on!” Merida clasped Casey’s offered hand and both looked to Olivia.

“Oh you’re both going down! It’s a deal,” Olivia smirked and clasped both their hands.

“May the best woman win,” Casey said as she squeezed both their hands and they broke for the three men across the room.

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All Choices Tag: @storyofmychoices @peonierose @aallotarenunelma @inlocusmads