Archive of Our Own

Having an abundance of patience was a good quality, and one Ana Flores had in spades. Being a teacher to mentally and physically handicapped children required it. Trying to steer and direct children that the world couldn’t accommodate was heartbreaking, but Ana knew there were plenty of occupations these children could do, they just needed to modify their dreams, sometimes by a lot. Yet she did it kindly and with heart, without condensation. However being just a substitute prevented her from having much influence, it felt like she wasn’t accomplishing much of anything.  More often than not, the child in question would roll their eyes before nodding and accepting the practiced lecture before moving onto a more appropriate activity. 

Then she met Christopher Diaz, a cherub with intelligent blue eyes and blond curly hair, and CP. He arrived at the school at the age of six, newly arrived from Texas, with just his father, who had joined the LAFD. 

A detail she decided to neglect, when she heard he was separated and going through a messy divorce. The poor man had enough on his plate to deal with, and didn’t need outside commentary on his job.

She loved teaching Christopher, even if it was for a day, he soaked up everything she said like a sponge, eyes bright and excited.  

Admittedly It was a head rush, and she fell more in love with the child, taking care to direct him towards activities he could physically do, ignoring his protests that he could do what everyone else was doing. In truth she didn’t hear or process much of what he said, he was a child, it wasn’t like he could be expected to understand how the world worked. 

So it was a double shock when she saw him one day at lunch passing around photographs, face animated as he gestured and spoke a mile a minute. Beyond curious, she approached the table, bending low, “what are you guys discussing with such enthusiasm?”

Christopher turned a beaming smile her way, handing her a photo, “daddy and I went rock climbing, then we got to go in a helicopter.” Startled, Ana’s eyes dropped to the photograph, tears blurring her vision as she stared sightless at the little boy wearing a harness and all the protective gear needed, along with a helmet. Before she could respond though he shoved another picture at her, face filled with such innocent wonder that her breath caught, before looking at that photo too. This one showed three people, two older men, one dressed in military fatigues and the other in dark jeans and light gray shirt, and Christopher sitting on the edge of a helicopter all wearing headphones, as the helicopters hovered in the air. She jerked her head up as the bell rang, automatically handing the photo back, mind reeling, the only thing she could think was it was too dangerous. Yet as a substitute what could she do, she wasn’t around enough, and when she mentioned her concerned to the principal the women had the audacity to shrug her shoulders and say, “yes, Eddie had mentioned they were going, I’m glad Christopher had fun.”

Ana hadn’t seen Christopher in almost two months and had purposefully forgotten the event, so the second time it happened she was horrified, the picture she looked at showed Christopher swimming ‘freely’ with sharks. Sure there were other people in the photograph, but poor sweet innocent Christopher was surrounded by sharks, grinning around the mouth piece of his oxygen tank. Dropping the photo back on the table she offered a tight smile and escaped making a beeline towards the principal, who once again gave her a bizarre look, “yeah, Eddie said they were going to Bahamas over March Break, they planned on surprising Christopher with the outing.”

Clearly feeling frustrated at everyone’s lack of concern, Ana made a point to keep an extra eye on the boy, but once again as a substitute that proved difficult. 

It was never like she got a chance to speak with his father, his father barely picked him up, leaving it to the healthcare aide, or another woman. When she did see a man pick him up, she was too far away to intercept and by the time she reached them Christopher was already in the jeep and the blond haired man was jumping in with a wave towards the principal who grinned and waved back. 

Determined to get answers, Ana marched up to the principal arms crossed, “who was that?”

Ms.Summers eyes narrowed at the tone, her brow raising, “excuse me?”

Momentarily stumbling Ana switched gears and smiled, relaxing her shoulders, “the man who picked up Christopher, who was he?”

A mulish look crossed Ms.Summer’s face, “I believe you have another class that is your concern at this time, I highly suggest you attend that.” 

Stunned, Ana could only watch as the principal stalked away, back straight. Ana deflated and pasted a smile on her face as one of the younger students passed, waving goodbye.

Christopher stories didn’t always accompany photographs, but they seemed to grow by leaps and bounds, from landing on a ship in the middle of the ocean, to touring tombs in Egypt, to other impractical activities that boggled her mind, and they always involved someone named Buck or Bucky. It had got to the point Ana had decided that while some of the stories appeared true, Buck had to be an imaginary friend, one Christopher was truly to old for, but once again something she couldn’t address.

That was how the next two years played out, and even when his mother died in a tragic accident, his excitement and enthusiasm never seemed to diminish, only occasionally getting quiet, and when she would approach him, and question him, he’d only comment and say Bucky was gone again. Now truthfully Ana had no idea what to do, she wasn’t about to console him on the apparent disappearance of his imaginary friend, so ignoring his comment, she tried to steer the conversation back to his mother, but Christopher was stubborn and firmly refused to discuss her, stating clearly and calmly that he already talked to Dr.Andres and didn’t want to talk to her. Which admittedly hurt, but not wanting to stress him out, Ana agreed and left him be. 

It seemed no one in the school cared or appeared concerned that all of these activities were dangerous and completely unacceptable activities for someone with Christopher’s limited mobility, so Ana had learned to keep her mouth shut, while still keeping a concerned eye on the boy. 

So when his teacher went on maternity leave Ana hid her elation as she was offered the permanent teaching spot for the rest of the school year, with the possibility of renewal for the next year. 

So at the start of October she threw herself into teaching, being careful to not pay any extra attention to Christopher. It wouldn’t be good to let the other children know she had a favorite after all.

However she did attempt to speak to each person that picked Christopher up, starting with the health aid, Carla, but the women had politely told her she’d have to speak with Eddie. The same thing happened when it was Maddie, Isabella and Josephine, her one attempt at Athena, had left her feeling chilled and terrified, the women’s eyes had grown so cold that Ana had faltered completely. 

By the time report cards were to be sent home at the end of November, Ana had a list of about a hundred concerns that needed to be addressed, so she sent a request for an in teacher meeting, to which Mr.Diaz agreed stating he would bring Carla as Evan was unavailable. Ana didn’t care, she was elated she finally had a chance to talk to someone who had to care about Christopher’s safety.

The day of the interview, Ana was determined to make a good impression, and ease Mr.Diaz alone the path she had decided, namely addressing Christopher need for telling fabricated stories, and his imaginary friend she knew he was told old to have, so she set up Christopher’s work, mentally going over what she wanted to say. To say she was surprised would be an understatement. When Mr.Diaz showed up, he was walking behind Carla looking lost and out of place, and not what she’d pictured at all. To be blunt, he was gorgeous, even looking exhausted with dark circles under his eyes, his voice was deep and firm, and his eyes sparkled with warmth and love at the mention of his son. She may not agree with his occupation, the hours were inexcusable, and it was an extremely dangerous job, but she could admit he loved his son. He had passed his smile to his son, and that was enough for her to fall in love with Christopher’s father, as her stomach fluttered unexpectedly at the realization. Then she got lost in talking to Edmundo, ignoring his offer to call him Eddie. It wasn’t until Carla had nudged him to remind him of his next meeting, did Ana realize she’d been so absorbed in getting to know Edmundo that she never got to address her concerns about Christopher. But she had learned that Edmundo was a former army medic, Chris lived with him and Evan and that Evan might pick up Chris occasionally, but his schedule was even more hectic than his own, and it was better to contact him, or Carla, if there were concerns with school. Sadly, he was also estranged from his parents for the last two years and didn’t expect that to change - though Ana thought she could help with that. She was annoyed with herself for forgetting to talk about all of her concerns, so she sent a follow up email with a polite greeting and then a list of concerns that went nowhere. The only response was to say that every precaution was taken to ensure Christopher’s safety, and thanked her for the concern. 

Clearly feeling frustrated and lusting after the man, Ana started stalking the pick up line, determined to corner the man in an attempt to make him listen, yet it was always Carla, or occasionally another woman. It wasn’t until a week passed before she thought she had a chance, she was leading Christopher down the hall, towards the office, nausea growing in her stomach at the unexpected summons. Yet when they reached the main entrance Christopher broke away with a wide grin and a squeal of excitement as he tore off down the hall, uncaring of the danger to himself, throwing himself into a blond haired man arms, who had knelt to catch him, a grin spreading across his face. 

Now objectively, the man was gorgeous, the blond hair and blue eyes enough to actually make her question if he might actually be Christopher’s biological father, before remembering that Chris had Edmundo’s smile. But even without that she could admit that beautiful, he was taller, broader and just plain bigger then Edmundo. 

It was with a pounding heart that she finally reached the duo, the blond, cradling the boy in a tight hug, lifting him off his feet as he rose, whispering in his ear, then gently setting him on his feet, “ready buddy?”

“Ready? Are we stopping at the fire station first?” Christopher asked with wide eyed excitement, making the man laugh and nod. 

“Of course, and I think we might be able to persuade Pops into letting us ride along too.”

Christopher’s high pitched squeal of excitement sent a shard of pained jealously through Ana’s chest - she’d never gotten that type of reaction out of Christopher - the reaction jolting her forward, voice sharp and cutting. “umm, excuse me, can I speak with you for a minute?”

The blue eyes that met hers reflected happiness, but then a spark of warning lit them from within. “why?”

Christopher shifted, leaning precariously to one side, Ana moved forward, attempting to prevent him from falling, but the man’s blue eyes locked on hers, keeping her pinned in place, the silent judgment harsh, and uncomfortable. 

The blond nodded towards the door, 

snatching up Christopher's book bag, “head to the jeep Buddy, I’ll be right behind you.”

“Promise?” The wide eyed look made the man melt as he nodded, “need my pinky on that?”

Slowly Christopher shook his head and shuffled towards the door, glancing back once, before disappearing.

“What can I do for you Ms.Flores?” The tone snapped her eyes back towards the man, and she swallowed at the glint that filled his eyes. His back straightened, an air of danger seemed to immanent from him, making it seem like he was towering over her. Swallowing the concern she had, Ana cleared her throat, “can I see your ID?”

Frowning, the blond glanced towards the office, giving a little shake, before looking back at her, “why?”

Floundering briefly, Ana went blank, then pasted a false smile on her face, “extra security, it’s my first time meeting you, I need to be sure.”

An ironic grin crossed the man's face and he folded his arms, jostling the dog tags around his neck, “Extra security huh? That’s a new one, I can assure you that I already have permission from both Lucy and Tanya who are currently standing in the office watching us.” 

Attempting to shrug, as if she didn’t care, Ana licked her lips, “that may be true, but I’ve certainly never met you.”

Shaking his head in exasperation he leveled her a hard look, and uncrossed his arms, voice just as hard as unyielding as his look, “my name is Commander Evan Diaz, and this is your attempt at addressing Christopher’s activities outside of school that are no concern of yours, correct?”

Startled that he knew, Ana could only nod, and admit, “yes, because they are a concern. Christopher is a sweet sensitive boy who shouldn’t be involved in activities that are dangerous.”

Shaking his head, Evan glanced towards the office, before jerking his head, “let me make one thing absolutely clear, Ms.Flores, Christopher’s safety is and always will be first and foremost in mine and Eddie’s mind. We plan each activity with doctors and specialists before and after, and Christopher is surrounded by professionals each and every adventure we go on. So while we thank you for the concern, it’s not needed, wanted or welcomed.” Nodding to someone behind her, Evan rolled his eyes, “Take care of that Tanya.”

“Of course Evan, it will be done immediately.” The principal voice made Ana jump, and she closed her eyes briefly, having forgotten where she was even with Evan’s warning, “Take care out there, Evan.”

“Will do. I’ll be dropping Christopher off tomorrow, Eddie has an overnight shift.” Evan waved as he jogged down the hall and out the doors, without a look back.

“Ana come with me, we need to talk.”

Sighing, Ana followed the principal towards the office, sinking into a chair taking care to keep her expression calm, as Tanya Summers spoke.

“I understand you have concerns when it comes to Christopher but both Eddie and Evan Diaz have requested that you keep all comments to yourself. They both understand the difficulties Christopher faces living with CP, so everything they do has been vetted by professionals. You need to take a step back, do you understand?”

Blinking at the same last name, even though Evan had said the same, Ana stilled in her chair, confusion sweeping her from head to toe, before settling on a brother. Sighing, Ana nodded, “fine, May I be excused, I have a class to return to.”

Ms.Summers stared at her for a long moment before nodding, “very well, keep in mind this is the only warning you get.”

Smiling polite Ana kept the bitterness hidden and escaped the room, still determined to keep an eye on the situation. 

Yet Ana never really got a chance to see Edmundo up close again, not until the end of January , and after yet again one of Christopher’s stories, this time involving parachuting of all things, with the return of Buck. It had been almost two months since she’d seen him, and the meeting with Evan had made her forget how gorgeous Edmundo was up close. For once he didn’t look exhausted, yet there was a touch of sadness in his eyes that sparked a flutter in her stomach. 

It was then that Ana decided that just being a teacher hadn’t been enough to get her point across, she needed to up her game, and if that meant she landed the extremely eligible man in front of her, it was a bonus. He was exactly what she’d always wanted. So she set out on a campaign, ignoring her concerns about Christopher, instead trying to reel that man in, and fix his attention. So she set out with a plan, making a point to touch and laugh at just about anything he said, which admittedly missed the mark, yet she persisted. His recoil to touch was shocking, but she chalked that up to his time in the army, and the laughing sometimes made no sense, considering it was normally to do with school work. 

Yet a month later, she’d moved no closer to her goal, so found out and baked Edmundo’s favorite meal, and began writing little notes she’d slid into Christopher’s book bag, always appropriate if called into question, but dropping enough suggestion he should be able to pick up on it. It never entered her mind to question it when he didn’t respond, even though the dish or container came back Monday empty, but not washed. She was satisfied with that. Even when Ms.Summer’s had a staff meeting reminding everyone about professional boundaries Ana didn’t think it pertained to her, wrapped up in the chase and fantasy. By April she was practically a vibrating mass of want, grinning like a giddy fool every time Edmundo managed to pick up his son. Seeing only what she wanted to see, she managed to convince herself that Edmundo was only waiting till the school year ended, having decided it was inappropriate as she was still Christopher's teacher. With that thought in her heart, she still attempted to get a firm positive response, so she asked him to coffee and then dinner, yet he turned her down citing conflict of work schedules before quickly collecting Christopher not giving her a chance to suggest a weekend. The one time she managed to suggest a weekend, Edmundo had looked at her with a puzzled frown and said they were meeting Evan for an adventure. When he returned a month later to pick up Christopher she cornered him, trying to hide the desperation she felt at his lack of response. Mentioning that the zoo was unveiling a new exhibit that weekend. 

That had kind of worked, not exactly as planned, he’d once again escaped after saying he might take Christopher on Saturday as a distraction from missing Evan, not giving her a chance to volunteer to go with them. So that had resulted in her stalking out the entrance the moment they opened, she’d waited almost five hours for Edmundo and Christopher to arrive. When she finally saw Edmundo her heart leapt, surprised that he actually arrived. So caught up in what she wanted , she didn’t even realize that Christopher wasn’t next to him, so elated to see him, she was running in her rush to intercept him. Only stumbling to a stop when she noticed he wasn’t alone, a huge group of people surrounded him. All laughing and joking, Christopher was getting a piggyback from an older gentleman, who had Athena at his side, talking to a younger version of herself. There were two women swinging a little girl between them, two little boys about Christopher’s age where running back and forth, playing tag between the adults, while Edmundo walked with a man and Maddie, accepting an infant with a wondrous smile that it did strange things to her insides and sent a sharp thrill of want to her stomach. Thankfully, she didn’t have to intrude, Christopher noticed her first, calling and waving from his dangerously perched position that she inched to snatch him from. Fisting her hands instead she smiled and stepped forward, “it’s so good to see you Christopher, are you excited to see the new exhibit?” 

His eyes dimmed slightly, before he nodded, “yeah, just wish Bucky was here, he’d be excited to see the koala’s.” 

All of the adults seemed to melt at that, yet the sunshine that had previously been over the group dimmed considerably. Edmundo had closed his eyes and turned away, resting his head on the infants, as Maddie rubbed his back silently resting her head on his shoulder. 

The older gentleman shifted Christopher so he was on his hip, and stepped away to talk to him softly. While Edmundo turned back around with a fixed smile on his face, “thanks for letting me know about the exhibit, it was nice of you, we all needed the distraction.” 

Striving to ignore the interruption of her plans, and not commenting on Christopher’s imaginary friend, wary about addressing it in front of strangers. She reached out to touch his arm, hoping to withdraw him from the circle of strangers, but Maddie shifted, blocking her access as she wiped the drool from the baby's chin. Hiding her anger at the interruption, she dropped her arm, and pasted a cheerful smile on her face. “So you said Thursday, I’m glad I could provide that, even if it includes your… friends?” 

The flicker of anger that flashed through Edmundo’s eyes at the word friend, wasn’t what she was expecting nor was the way his eyes had narrowed. When he spoke his voice was that of a stranger, and she swallowed hard. 

“They’re mine and Evan’s family, this is Maddie and Chimney, my sister and brother-in-law, the couple with Christopher are Athena and Bobby, my in-laws and my sister in law May, the two women are Karen and Hen, both of whom are like sisters. The children are Denny, Harry, Nia, and,” he glanced down with a smile at the infant in his arms, “this angel is my niece, Jee-Yun.”

The man named Chimney snorted beside him, “you can take her for the night then.”

A soft expression crossed Edmundo’s face before he slowly shook his head, “I’d never be forgiven if I had her by myself for the first time. I promised I’d wait till…” he trailed off and swallowed hard, closing his eyes as Chimney squeezed his shoulder, and Maddie laid her head on his shoulder again. “Hey, sorry man, I know it’s hard, but soon, what is it? 25 days right?”

Smiling weakly, Edmundo shook his head “20, hopefully, we haven’t talked - because well, you know.” 

Chimney nodded, squeezing his shoulder again, and exchanging a glance with Maddie who nodded subtlety. “I understand Christopher’s doing well in school, what’s it like teaching him in a classroom setting?”

Ana flicked her eyes to Eddie, but his attention was solely on the infant, mouth curved into a half smile, as if the effort was costing him energy he didn’t have yet the infant made it worth it. Turning to Maddie she answered automatically, not really paying attention to what she said, as her eyes drifted back to Edmundo repeatedly.

As the infant bounced and giggled in his arms, he slid his hand around her back, stabilizing her, the glint of metal on his hand catching her attention for the first time, and she trailed off in mid sentence. Not catching the hostile expression Maddie gave her, so caught by the ring on his left hand that her heart stopped. Mind already rapidly running through her memories trying to remember if it had always been there. Suddenly the woman Athena was there jarring her back to the present with a hard cold look in her eyes that sent another shiver of warning down her spine, making her wonder what Christopher had said about her. Attempting to repair whatever damage the boy might have caused, Ana straightened and held out a hand, a smile on her face which the woman ignored. Her voice was soft and calm as she slipped an arm around his waist, gently steering Edmundo away. 

“Bobby’s going to start pulling his hair out, the boys are getting restless.”

Feeling a sense of overwhelming failure as the group ambled passed, she felt bitter disappointment as Edmundo gave in wordlessly, not even bothering to tender his goodbyes, as he laughed as Athena tickled the infant in his arms. Ana stood there dejected before finally leaving the zoo.

Now here on her spot across from the firehouse, she reviewed her plan, trying to find any possible flaw in it, and couldn’t. Except for the ring she couldn’t explain, and had finally dismissed it as irrelevant, deciding it was in honor of his late wife, divorced or not. She knew all about the party of course, Christopher had arrived at school two weeks ago with a folder of flyers, inviting anyone interested to his birthday celebration. It was open to all ages, and parents could drop off or stay if they wished, no presents, just bring a smile and canned good item, and room for food being served all day. She hadn’t approved, obviously, a fire station was no place for children at all, it was a dangerous environment and they could get hurt, and a party that lasted five hours, seemed excessive. Who had heard of such a thing unless it was a sleepover?  But nevertheless she was here. She had a smile, and room for food, plus a present, and more importantly determination to fix Edmundo’s undivided attention. With the amount of people in the fire station there should be plenty of opportunity for her to get him to slip away. Then as if the fates had aligned just for her, she saw Edmundo hurry out the bay doors and grab a platter of food from Bobby who was manning the grill. Not wanting to rush the fence, she waited another half hour, ignoring the activity in front of her, instead locking herself in a reoccurring daydream. Missing all the activity as someone drove the trucks out the bay doors, and parked there, leaving the middle door unobstructed. It was the sound of the siren that snapped her out of the pleasant fantasy and she blinked a little at what she’d missed, before finally standing. Straightening her dress automatically she picked up the bag containing an age appropriate gift for a child with Christopher’s physical limitations, fixed a smile on her face and crossed the street.

Eddie POV 

Eddie stood off to the side, watching the crew of the 118 including friends and extended family, celebrate Christopher’s birthday. 

Truthfully they’d both been a bit dejected this morning, the previous excitement of the party dimmed when they found out Evan wouldn’t make it home, the five minute call two days ago, broken and choppy with static that made hearing hard.  Now Eddie was gratefully that he’d gone all out this year, letting Christopher invite all of his friends from school, even going so far as to beg Bobby the use of the fire station, which he’d surprisingly agreed too, even working it with dispatch that the house would be unavailable for six hours, unless it was an natural Disaster or something of that nature. Even the crew that would have normally been working enjoyed the down time, answering questions and giving tours. 

Karen was face painting with one of the parents who offered to stay, while Chimney gave those interested a tour of the ambulance, and Ravi the new probie gave tours of the fire trucks. Athena, Abelua and Pepa were upstairs cooking up a storm, or putting the finishing touches on the cake, while Bobby manned the grill outside, the smells wafting into the firehouse causing more then one stomach to growl hungrily. Hen was in the midst of organizing a game of what looked like pin the hat on the fireman for some of the younger children, and laughing up a storm. 

Looking around the tarmac, he saw a lineup of kids at the fire pole, with two of the people from B shift assisting as needed, he could even hear the excited laughter of Chris upstairs, along with his friends, his earlier sadness forgotten. 

Feeling like he was escaping to mourn his loneliness Eddie slipped into the locker room, sinking onto the bench, burying his face in his hands. God he missed his husband. Six months, only six months, with random weekends in between, and while they’d had longer, it felt worse now that they were married. It just wasn’t enough. Though now he had an appreciation for what Shannon had put up with for six years. The wait was painful, the calls non-existent unless Buck could guarantee a secure connection, which didn’t happen often. This living in dread each time a strange vehicle pulled into the station, and half expecting to see the Formal Navy Seal attire step out to give him the bad news, all of it had his stomach tied in knots, and absurdity close to tears. He hated it. The waiting. The worrying. He was so thankful this was the last one, the last mission, the last time they’d be separated by an ocean, or wherever Buck was, he wouldn’t always say, and Eddie couldn’t ask, already knowing the answer. 

Rubbing the heels of his hands into his eyes, he fought same tears that had threatened all day, and had actually fallen last night, wearing his husband's hoodie and wrapped around his pillow. 

This was supposed to be a good day, Christopher was happy, most of the family he’d been born with, and the family they’d chosen and built present. A solid presence that should be comforting and yet here he sat, in a glass room, where anyone could look in, and see him almost in tears.

A soft cooing brought his head, and he smiled through the tears that blurred his vision, automatically catching Jee as she threw herself at him, secure in the knowledge he’d always catch her. Lifting her towards the ceiling, he held her above his head, heart warming at the giggles that left her small body. Lowering her, he held her at his side, nuzzling her neck, before blowing on her cheek. “Hello carino.”

“Looked like you could use a distraction.” Maddie stated as she sat down, and he made the mistake of glancing at his sister in law, and seeing the familiarity of his husband in her eyes, wrong color or not. One thing the Buckley siblings shared was their expressive eyes,m. Maddie’s letting him know she understood more than he wanted. Feeling the tears threaten once again, he redirected his attention to his niece, tickling her side as she attempted to grab his nose. 

“It’s alright to miss him, he’d be here if he could, he wanted to be here, Eddie.”

Unable to respond verbally just in case the tears did escape, Eddie nodded, making Maddie sigh. “Bobby said he was ready to start dishing out hotdogs.”

Knowing that was a reminder of his job for the day, Eddie pressed a kiss to Jee’s head before passing her back to her mother. “Thanks, Mads.” 

Nodding sadly, Maddie rose to her feet, and left the room, giving him another moment to collect himself. Taking a few calming breaths, he painted a smile on his face, and jogged out to help carry the platters upstairs, and if the smile was a little too fake, and bright, no one called him on it. 

Once he was finished helping serve out hotdogs and adding whatever concoction the person asked for, he once again found Jee in his arms, and he threw his in-laws a look of gratitude. With Christopher distracted by his friends, Eddie felt at loose ends, and minutes from spiraling, yet with Jee he had an excuse to be distracted and no one questioned him on, and if he snuggled her a little closer when she passed out in his arms, hand curled in the chain around his neck, that was his business.

He talked to so many people. People, friends and family he knew, but finally lost track of who he had already spoken to. They just became a blur of faces, and meaningless chatter, the only thing he hoped and prayed for was that none of that chatter was important. Thankful no one seemed to notice and if they did they gave him smiles of understanding. It wasn’t until Pepa pushed him towards the stairs did he realize that all the kids had vacated the upstairs and he could hear the excited laughter echoing up the stairs. Readjusting a sleeping Jee in his arms, he finally ventured down, a little shocked at what he saw. The trucks had been moved, and what looked like an obstacle course set up, one that he couldn’t really figure out, much less make sense of, but the kids participating appeared to love it, judging by the squeals of laughter and shouts of encouragement, yelled from the sidelines. There was still pin the hat on the fireman going on, and face painting for any new addition, someone had set up a bobbing for apples station, and someone had the foresight to set up a table with a huge card that they could be signed, so Chris would always have something to remember this day. 

As if sensing the overwhelming emotions attempting to boil over, first Maddie appeared, then Athena, both putting an arm around him, offering him silent comfort. 

It was a few minutes later that Maddie spoke, nodding behind him, “Chimney’s taking Chris through the obstacle course next, and he wants you to watch.”

Nodding in agreement, Eddie took a few calming breaths, before handing Jee back to her mother, arms already feeling empty, but determined to put on a happy face for his son. Athena mumbled something beside him as she stalked away, but he was distracted as Maddie silently led him to the sideline, pointing out Chris and Chimney unnecessarily, as they waited their turn.

“Evan would love a video, Eddie.”

It took a minute for the words to compute, and when they did, he could only nod, trying not to tear up at his husband's name. 

Jerking he turned to the starting line, he pulled out his phone, preparing to hit record, it gave him an excuse to not to be an active participant, yet even still he fixed the smile back on his face, and offered a thumbs up to show he was ready.

Ana POV 

Ana walked inside the fire station, the sound of her heels lost in the noise of the children, and adults. Waiting a minute for her eyes to adjust, she finally got a chance to look around, alarmed, she blinked hoping to dispel what she saw, but when she opened them again disappointment swept her from head to toe, at spectacle of what she saw. Even though she’d heard from Christopher himself some of the activities that had been planned, she hadn’t taken them seriously, believing once again that his imagination had exaggerated the truth. There was no way a parent or parents with children suffering from physical or mental difficulties would allow this type of activity. About the only acceptable thing she saw was the face painting, she just hoped it was washable paint. The pin the hat on the fire fighter was dangerous, they could stick themselves with the pin, or get dizzy and fall. The bobbing for apples was not only inappropriate for the time of year, given that it was a Halloween activity, but even then it was questionable, the children could get wet, choke on the water or god forbid hit their head. The Obstacle course blew everything out of the water though. Who in their right mind thought that was a good idea? It was stupid and down right dangerous, harnessing children to the back of adults so they could crawl, hop, or skip, along an invisible path, it was ridiculous. 

Straightening her spine, Ana scanned the room, determined to corner Edmundo and give him a piece of her mind, and then hopefully something else. Finally seeing him once again holding the baby, with two women wrapped around him, she felt the flash of jealousy fill her, steps stopping as the younger one, Maddie, nodded towards the obstacle course. Frowning, she watched Edmundo hand the baby back to her mother, before letting her lead  Edmundo toward the sidelines and point to the starting point. What Ana saw made her blood boil, Christopher was being helped into the harness, and his family were letting it, or ignoring it as Edmundo turned to Maddie the heartache and despair on his face, causing her stomach to clench. Gritting her teeth, she took a deep breath and reversed direction, almost slamming into someone. It took a moment for her to recognize the woman, the in-law, Athena, that was the name.

“Ms.Flores, we’re glad you could stop by, is that supposed to be for Christopher?” Athena nodded at the gift bag in Ana’s hand, who nodded, and opened her mouth to gush about it, but the look in the older woman's eyes snapped her mouth shut.

“Didn’t you read the flier?” Athena asked as she folded her arms, looking at Ana as if she was a bug she wanted to squish. 

Feeling self conscious Ana nodded hesitantly, “I did, but please call me Ana.” she said slowly, and blinked as she missed what the other women said under her breath, before a fake smile appear on Athena’s face, “well you must have missed the part about no presents, Christopher asked for food bank donations, the bins by the door.”

Startled, Ana looked behind her, and sure enough there sat a bin, next to the lockers holding the turnout gear overflowing with canned goods.

Fighting for composure, Ana faced forward, and smiled pleasantly, “well maybe you’ll make an exception for me, being a close personal friend and all.” 

To Ana’s disbelief Athena smirked, then clearly bit her check, before shrugging, “why not?” Reaching she snatched the bag, a bit rudely, before pointing towards the stairs, “foods up stairs, mingle, just watch what you say, Ms.Flores. There are many ears in this building.” And with the cryptic warning and threat, Athena marched away without a backwards glance. Shivering at the finger of fear that slid down her spine, the same one she’d felt at the zoo, Ana shook herself, and scanned the room again, catching sight of Edmundo hugging his son, as they took a selfie together, then Christopher disengaged himself and left his father behind to go play with his friends. Seeing the look of loneliness cross Edmundo’s face, she took another step forward, only to come face-to-face with Bobby who reached out and shook her head, reintroducing himself, before leading her towards the stairs, not giving her a chance to decline.

At first Ana was happy to play along, somewhat enjoying herself, until she started to realize that the family relationship Edmundo had claimed was strenuous at best, and an outright lie at worst. She learned that Athena had only married Bobby four years ago, and the father of her two children was still alive, gay but still remained good friends. Bobby was also the Captain of the firehouse and Edmundo’s boss and Evan’s adopted father, who was not present. Maddie and Chimney weren’t married, and had no plans to get married even though they had a child together, and Maddie wasn’t actually blood related to either Bobby or Athena, but no one came out and said how she could be Edmundo’s sister. 

Over hearing everyone address Isabella Diaz, as Abuela, or his tia Josephine, as Pepa, Ana felt confident in doing the same, both women had glared at her offended before turning away tutting back and forth in rapid Spanish she didn’t bother trying to translate, she could speak it, but it took work. Ana’s heart had sunk and she quickly slipped away, searching the area of Edmundo. Yet he was enthralled standing in a circle of men, baby still in his arms, laughing at whatever was being said. Sighing, Ana turned away, not willing to brave that circle, then cringed when Hen and a man named Josh approached the same steely glint in their eyes Athena had. 

Now, three hours later, Ana was ready to scream, everyone around her was conspiring against her, each time she saw Edmundo alone, someone would distract him, or step forward and draw her into a conversation she didn’t want, but couldn’t get out of without appearing rude, which at this point she couldn’t afford. It already felt like she was walking on thin ice. And it was like everyone knew that, they kept giving her pitting looks like they all knew something she didn’t. It wasn’t until the party was winding down, and the leftover kids were watching a movie, did Edmundo finally appear to talk to her, and she gave him a blinding smile that he didn’t return. Taking a good look at him, she could tell he wasn’t really there, almost as if he was lost in memories, or something similar, his eyes also appeared slightly puffy and bloodshot. It wasn’t until he was leading her downstairs that she realized he was actually silently walking her to the door to force her to leave. Desperate to prevent that, she stopped placing a hand on his arm, and offering him a sincere smile, “are you alright?”

Shrugging, Edmundo’s eyes slid away, “it’s been a long day, I’m glad I have the next few days off, Christopher is going to Bobby and Athena’s and I plan on sleeping, at least until I have to pick him up.”

Pulse leaping at the information, Ana bit her lower lip, and offered him a flirty smile, “maybe we could finally have that dinner, my treat.”

Blinking, he shook his head in confusion, “what? No, thanks. I really don’t know how much more clear I need to be, I’m not interested. I really plan on sleeping. It’s been a rough few…” he trailed off, looking over her shoulder, his face going blank, eyes widening in surprise. 

Confused, she watched him rub his eyes, as if he didn’t trust what he saw. Curious, she twisted, and saw the semi familiar blond hair of Evan standing at the bay door, dressed in military fatigues, arm in a sling, and duffle bag on his shoulder. Cocky smile playing on his lips, the muscle on his chest rippling, causing the dog tags around his neck to shift, as he removed the sunglasses on his face, revealing the sparkling blue eyes she could see from here, eyes that instantly softening as they zeroed in on what he was searching for.

Uninterested in that, she dismissed him as irrelevant, turning to face Edmundo again, confused as he brushed right passed her, staggering like a drunk, before he was running.

Evan tossed the duffle bag to the side, catching Edmundo in his arms, uncaring that his arm was in a sling. Crushing Edmundo to his chest, Evan curled his hand around his head whispering to him, before tipping Edmundo’s face up claiming his lips in a passionate kiss that had absolutely no business in a public space. 

“Close personal friend, huh?” Athena’s sly voice sounded in Ana’s ear, making her jump, sending the other woman a perplexed look.

“What?”

Crossing her arms, Athena looked down her nose and Ana, dismissively, “I thought you said you were a close personal friend. Aren’t you?”

“Yes, of course. Edmundo and I have a connection.” Ana stammered, still trying to maintain the fiction she’d build in her head. Athena snorted and shook her head sadly, “then explain why Eddie is kissing his ‘husband’ and my son, like his life depends on it, Ms.Flores?”

“What?” The shriek came out louder than Ana wanted, but the shock sent her for another loop, “husband? He can’t be married! That’s his brother!” Unable to help herself, Ana glanced back at the two men, locked around one another, Evan’s hand snaking down Edmundo’s back to grab his ass, seeing a glint of metal on his finger. Feeing sick to her stomach, she couldn’t keep the disgust from her face as she firmly turned her back, faltering momentarily as she saw that everyone was standing off to the side, recording the moment behind her. Lowering her voice, she frowned, “You have no problem with that-that…” she trailed off, unable to find an acceptable word to describe what was happening behind her, waving her hand expressively. 

An almost ponderous expression replaced the smugness across Athena’s face as she looked over Ana’s shoulder. Her face softening with what Ana could only describe as love filled her eyes, a soft smile spreading across her face. Then she redirected her attention back to Ana’s, “there is nothing wrong with love, Ms.Flores.”

Shaking with rage, Ana glared at the other women, voice bitter as she demanded sharply, “who is he?” 

Athena’s eyes flicked away from hers and she smiled, causing Ana to turn around, seeing Edmundo being swung in a circle, so Evan’s back was to the room, and Edmundo hidden from view. A moment later, Athena’s eyes turned back to hers, the ice in them causing the previous shiver to return, not liking the ironic smirk that spread across Athena’s face, “I thought you knew, bring a close personal friend and all that.”

Huffing out a breath of annoyance at the women’s amusement, Ana crossed her arms, glaring at Athena who laughed a hint of mockery in the tone. 

“That man is Chris’s imaginary friend Buck, and Commander Evan Diaz, formally of the Navy Seals, Ms.Flores. Now I think this might be a good point for you to leave, you know before you say something else you shouldn’t.” Holding up the gift bag Ana had arrived with, Athena forced her to take it, before physically ushering her around the ambulance and towards the bay doors. Athena stood there, Bobby appearing at her shoulder as if barring her reentry, so she had no choice but to turn and walk away, taking one glance back at the two men still embracing for all to see absolutely no shame or embarrassment. Stiffening her back, she let the rage, jealousy and everything swell, as she mentally hashed out a plan to get back at them for ruining her dreams.

Eddie’s POV

After watching Chris run the obstacle course, Eddie almost slipped into the bunk room just so he could get a nap, knowing no one would care or begrudge him that, but not wanting to be alone with his thoughts. he stayed, grateful beyond words for his family helping distract him, most of the time he held Jee, playing with the baby, and talking with the inner family. At one point he sat on the couch, helping Nia hold the baby and saw Maddie holding her phone out in front of her with a genuine smile on her face, as she snapped a photo, before tapping at her phone for a minute when he felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. Returning the smile, he mouthed thank-you to which she only nodded, before someone got her attention and Hen took her place. It wasn’t until two hours passed did he realize he always had someone next to him, talking to him or just standing in silent solidarity. That was what finally prompted him to glance at Bobby, “I’m not gonna to break down, or run off and join the first fight club I find, you guys can stop babysitting me.”

Bobby chuckled, and explained. “I know, Eddie, and while we are worried about you, it’s not you we’re babysitting you. I’m just following orders.”

Confused, Eddie glanced around, “order’s? what, who?”

Nodding across the room, Bobby indicated the cluster of women, surrounding Ms.Flores, a physical barrier she couldn’t penetrate, or avoid.

Sighing, Eddie shifted so his back was to the counter and he could block the view of the women. “Ah, that. I don’t know why she’s doing this, she knows I’m married. I’ve told her, the school, Evan and Carla, hell it’s in the paperwork at the school. I never take off my ring, and Chris constantly talks about him, it’s not like I hide him.” Eddie’s voice caught on husband’s name, but he pushed through, running a hand through his hair, clearly frustrated.

Bobby, turned from the view of women, leaning his hip against the island. “Well Athena has a theory, if you want to hear it?”

Eddie glanced at his boss and father-in-law, “I think I better, even if I have a sinking suspicion I’m not going to like it.”

Bobby winced and nodded in agreement, “yeah, I can definitely say you won’t like it. Do you want me to get Athena so she can explain it?”

“Is there a short and sweet explanation?” Eddie asked hopefully, feeling his hopes crumble as Bobby shook his head, “yeah, let’s get Thena, you can I get mad at. Her, I can't.”

Clapping a hand on his shoulder Bobby chuckled and directed him towards the stairs, catching Athena’s eyes as they headed towards the captain’s office. One inside, Bobby passed him a water bottle he’d snagged and directed him to a chair. A second after he sat, Athena entered and shut the door, “how are you holding up, honey?”

Huffing out a laugh, Eddie admitted, “better, even if this still somehow involved my husband. It feels like I’m not dwelling on missing him so much.” Twisting the cap off the bottle, Eddie took a drink not missing the silent communication the duo had, but was content to wait for them to speak first.

Bobby leaned against the front of his desk, with his arms crossed, while Athena took the chair beside him, “so the theory is pretty simple but so bizarre it took me a little while to figure it out. At first Ms.Flores presented a normal picture, but over the last few hours, she’s managed to drop enough comments that put a lie to that facade. Combine that with how she’s acted throughout the school year, I’m pretty confident in my conclusion.”

Nodding Eddie took another drink of water, “I trust you Athena, I’m not going to get mad at what you say.”

“You might, but I know it’s not directed at me.” Athena said calmly, “so first, she’s convinced herself she’s in love with you, and you’re just waiting till the school years end to fall in line with her plan. Yet because you haven’t indicated anything she’s gotten impatient. Which is why she showed up today, she’s tried multiple times to slip away to get you alone, so she can speed things along.” 

Eddie snorted and shook his head to which Athena smiled, “we all know the impossibility of that, but she doesn’t. We’ve taken turns to keep her separated from you, one of us is alway with either of you, just so she can’t get you alone, and no that’s not because we don’t trust you, it’s her, we just don’t want you to have to deal with that today of all days.” 

“Thank-you.” He said sincerely, twisting the bottle in his hand. “So what else, I assume there is more.”

Nodding unhappily Athena continued, “Hen, Karen, Michael and Josh have all determined she disapproves of same sex or mixed race relationships, not that she’s come out and state that explicitly, but she’s dropped enough comments that it gets the point across quite clearly. Another thing we’ve all figured out and been subjected too is the ableist comments. She vehemently disapproves of the activities Christopher’s participates in, wobbling back and forth on if they’re all true or only partially in his imagination, but has gone so far as to make suggestive comments that they should be investigated, if they do in fact turn out to be true.”

Alarmed, Eddie straightened panicking, “what? Do you mean his activities on the weekend with Evan?”

Nodding Athena listed them off on her hand, “yeah, the rock climbing, repelling, parachuting, or even the trips you’ve taken to visit Evan around the world.”

Face slackening in disbelief, Eddie opened and closed his mouth before blurting, “but she knows we get everything cleared by his doctor first, and then we find a CP approved instructor before attempting any of it, and Evan has to be there because I can’t do it without him. He keeps us both calm, and focused.”

Athena gripped his forearm, squeezing it a bit harder than necessary and he realized it was to ground him, and he relaxed, meeting Athena’s eyes as he breathed in, automatically going through his breathing exercises as he listened to her speak.

“Eddie, good, calm down, we know. Everyone knows that, and we’ve stated that multiple times today, but it goes in one ear and out the other. She’s literally not listening to anything we say in Christopher’s defence, as she believes she knows better and all you need is proper guidance.” 

“Anything else?” Eddie croaked, in disbelief, not completely surprised when Athena nodded.

“Unfortunately, Ms.Flores has spent an extraordinary amount of time trying to figure out everyone’s connection, not accepting non-blood as family. She doesn’t seem to accept the concept of adoption and doesn’t agree with foster care, and I suspect she’s against divorce but in your case that was invalidated because Shannon died, thus meaning in her mind you're free.”

“I’m married though.” Eddie crossed his arms, “happily.” He added as if it was an afterthought making Athena smile.

“We know Eddie, so is Evan, and he will be home soon, but we both know how these missions work.”

Sadly, Eddie nodded, “alright what’s the rest of it, why doesn’t she understand I’m happily married.”

“Well…” Athena frowned, “this is the most bizarre thing I’ve ever encountered, but apparently she believes Evan and Buck are two different people, Evan is only a family friend of some sort, possibly your brother, and to be honest none of us have really clarified who or where he is, and that Buck is only Christopher’s imaginary friend, and most of the stories he’s told are all built from his imagination, except in one or two instances were there are pictures to back up what Chris is talking about.”

Stunned, Eddie stared at his mother-in-law, before his lip started to twitch, then a chuckle escaped him. Then before he knew it, he was leaning weakly against the arm of the chair, laughing until he was crying, burying his head in his hands. Feeling both Bobby and Athena’s wrap around him only made it worse, and it finally allowed him to break, crying out his heartache and loneliness, missing his husband with more than words could express.

When he finally felt cried out, he was exhausted as if he’d just pulled a double shift with 5 hours of sleep, not that he’d done that here, but in the army he had, and he hated the feeling. The only thing he wanted to do was go home and sleep, and Athena must have seen that, as she brushed the tears from his face. “The party is winding down, the kids are currently starting a movie while waiting for parents to pick them up, once that happens, we’re taking Chris for the night along with Denny, Nathan and Mitchel for a sleepover, remember?”

He hadn’t, but nodded anyway, as she continued, “now Bobby’s going to guard the bathroom while you wash your face, then I want you to walk Ms.Flores to the doors, do you think you can do that?”

Confused, at the request Eddie could only blink, “why? I thought the point was to keep us separated.”

Nodding, Athena agreed with a murmur, “it is, and I’ll be right behind you, but I’m hoping the dismissal will actually penetrate her thick skull, just in case though, we already have a back up planned. I gave Tanya a heads up into Ms.Flores’s actions and comments throughout the year and today. To say she is disturbed is mild and she already arranged to have a meeting set up next week to discuss it in more depth. Carla has already alerted her supervisor, who passed it up the chain of command at CPS. Just in case she gets nasty, she gives the impression that will be the case, I’ve also alerted my boss, just in case she attempts to skip steps. Just remember you aren’t alone, you’ll never be alone in this, Eddie. Even while your husband is away serving, you still have family standing ready to assist, in any way you need. The family you choose. Alright?”

Still a little stunned and foggy headed Eddie nodded, then blurted, “I wish my parents were like you guys, the unconditional support you provide… I’ve never experienced that before, and I have no words on how to thank-you.” His eyes burned again with unshed tears. His parents had not approved the relationship, adoption or marriage and Eddie had been forced to go no contact. It had been over two years since he’d heard from them - though he had left his email open as a form of contact if they ever wanted to make the effort. At this point he figured they were waiting for him to come crawling back to beg forgiveness, which was never happening. In a twist that had shocked his parents, even after everything they had done, both of his sisters had gone no contact with them, as they fully supported their brother and both had even moved to California. They would have been here today but they needed to work. Adriana had sent her two kids, Mitchell and Nathan. Sophia was still childless and single and happy about it. Pushing the irrelevant thoughts from his mind, he met Athena’s eyes again, “sorry, got lost there.”

“No worries sweetheart. And just to let you know, even if you and Evan had never married, you’d still be our son, that relationship did make it more or less true. Alright?”

Too exhausted to react to the statement, Eddie bit his lip, before offering a tired smile. “Alright.”

Athena pulled him into another hug, smoothing a hand against his hair, before pulling back, “you’ll be able to go home and sleep soon, do you remember the plan?”

Nodding Eddie rose to his feet, “bathroom then walk Ms.Flores out, then sleep. Everything else can wait till next week.”

Nodding, Athena stood and hugged him around the middle, before ushering him to the door, letting him go first, following behind him as she pulled out her phone and ducked around the ambulance, nodding at Bobby as her husband followed their son’s husband.

In the bathroom, Bobby leaned against the counter, arms folded as Eddie ran the cold water, wincing at his reflection in the mirror. Cupping his hands, he held the icy water against his face, repeating the process a few times before finally washing it to remove the trace of tears. Leaning against the counter with both arms bracing him, he glanced at Bobby, “is she insane?”

Shaking his head sadly, Bobby shrugged, “clinically? I don’t know, son, she could just be delusional, or extremely desperate, I’m not a doctor though.” Tilting his head Bobby inspected him, “ready?”

Snorting, Eddie shook his head, “no, but I want to get this over with, give Chris a hug and kiss, grab an Uber and crash, even if I feel bad leaving all the mess for you guys.” 

Shaking his head Bobby pointed at Eddie, “none of that, like my lovely and brilliant wife already stated, we’re family. We’re here to support you and then help you get back up when you stumble. So let’s finish this so you can sleep, alright?”

Leading the way up the stairs, Bobby walked to the kitchen, automatically helping the others with the clean up, as the kids sat on the couches enthralled in the movie playing, it looked like a Disney movie, but Eddie couldn’t have said which one. Maddie sat off to the side nursing Jee, eyes drifting between the dark hair on her daughter's head to the movie playing, before meeting his eyes with a clear nod of support, which he was grateful for, as he finally moved towards Ms.Flores.

She offered him a huge smile which he didn’t acknowledge, not able to say anything over the bile building in his throat. He just wanted away from her, her entire person was making his skin crawl. He started walking towards the stairs, not particularly surprised or shocked that she followed happily. It wasn’t until they reached the center of the tarmac floor next to the ambulance did she seem to realize he was escorting her out, because she stopped, hand curling around his bicep, her nails scraping against his skin, causing a gut reaction of revulsion. 

It took him a minute to realize she’d asked a question, then a second to process it and he shrugged, glancing around the empty station. “It's been a long day, I’m glad I have the next few days off. Christopher is going to Bobby and Athena’s and I plan on sleeping, at least until I have to pick him up.”

Alarmed at the spark that lit her eyes, he fisted his left hand, thumb rubbing against the ring, attempting to keep himself grounded when she bit her lip and offered him what she thought must be a flirty smile. “Maybe we could finally have that dinner, my treat.”

Instantly cold, he stomach rolled. Shaking his head he could only stare, not able to understand how she’d managed to ignore his lack of attention. “what? No, thanks. I really don’t know how much more clear I need to be, I’m not interested. I really plan on sleeping. It’s been a rough few…”

Eddie trailed off, catching movement over Ms.Flores shoulder and he felt his eyes widen, before he rubbed them as if unable to believe what he was seeing. It felt like a mirage, something he’d experienced twice in the desert. 

Lowering his hands, Eddie looked again, swallowing the sob that threatened to break free as he took in his husband’s tall form, lips quirked in a cocky smile. The blond hair was longer than normal, a riot of curls that brushed the collar of his shirt. Even though his eyes were hidden from view by the sunglasses, Eddie could feel goosebumps pebble his skin, physically feeling the heat from his husband’s eyes, as traveled over his body, Evan performing his own inspection. 

The military fatigues were dusty with dirt, and his boots had a layer of mud on them, yet thankfully he saw no blood stains, new or old. Evan’s right arm was in a loose sling, a visible bandage covering his forearm and on his left shoulder was the duffel bag. Looking worse than before, the strap worn, and a tear just visible on the side of the bag. As Evan raised his arm towards the sunglasses, his shirt stretched across his chest. He bulked up a lot since their last in person meeting over two months ago. Just the motion of his arms raising shifted the dog tags, sending want slamming into Eddie so fast he felt light headed. It had been forever since he’d been held up and pressed into a wall by his husband.

As Buck slid the glasses off he met Eddie’s eyes, face softening instantly as his eye flickered over Eddie’s face. The blue eyes filled with love and darkened with something more, as if he knew Eddie’s inner thoughts. Drinking in the sight of his husband standing there Eddie stumbled forward, feeling drunk. Then with a burst of energy that came from somewhere he ran the last few feet, watching his husband toss his duffle bag to the side, before catching him, uncaring about the sling, or the glasses that clattered to the ground. Eddie inhaled deeply, feeling the solid chest pressed against his, and his husband's unique scent, mingled with dust and sweat flood his senses. It took a moment to realize he was babbling, unintelligent words that made no sense, tears falling down his checks. 

Rough fingers brush them away, as Buck laid his forehead against Eddie’s, voice heavy with emotion. “I’m home, baby, I’m home. Home for good, never again, right Eds?” 

Nodding he tipped his head back as he felt his husband slid his hands into his hair, his eyes drifting shut a second before Buck kissed him. There was no way this was a polite, chaste kiss suitable for children, no it was raw, messy and needy, fuelled by six months of separation with only the occasional meet up. Those normally lasted a day, maybe two and included Christopher, neither feeling right in leaving him out of his Papa time. 

Eddie didn’t care either, even knowing they probably had an audience, he returned the kiss with equal fever, wrapped in his husband’s solid embrace. Winding his arms around Evan’s neck, he shifted closer, feeling the hard length of his husband’s arousal against his hip. 

Feeling Eva’s hands stray lower and cup his ass, Eddie moaned low in his throat, an answering chuckle leaving his husband. Finally Evan raised his head, breathing hard, “god, I missed you.”

Cupping Evan’s face Eddie stretched up on his toes, feeling his husband’s warm arm wrap his waist and physically spin him, in a circle, Buck’s larger build blocking Eddie’s body from view of the family he knew was gathering. Buck leaned in eagerly for another kiss, whispering against Eddie’s lips, “por favor dime que todavía estamos solos por la noche. quiero hacerte gritar.” (please tell me we're still alone for the night? I want to make you scream.) 

The dirty, suggestive comment in flawless Spanish almost made him cum right there, and by Buck’s cocky chuckle his husband knew it too. As it was Eddie’s face flooded with heat, and he pulled back enough to glare at his husband, but it came out as a goofy grin. “Yeah.” He breathed leaning forward once again Eddie kissed his husband, grin making it almost impossible now. “I love you, Ev.”

Smiling against his lips, Buck pulled back, “I love you too, Eds.” Burying his head into Eddie’s shoulder he pulled him close, effortlessly holding Eddie a few inches off the ground, breathing deeply, as they both willed their bodies under control, knowing they couldn’t just run for the door, no one would forgive them if they did, and well Athena was scary. After a long moment, one longer than Eddie expected they’d be given, Buck lowered him to the ground and whispered into his shoulder, “you good if I move? I don’t dare shift to check, cause it’ll mean an even longer wait.”

Knowing his face was still red, Eddie hesitated then nodded, “I-yeah, I just missed you, if that wasn’t obvious.” 

Lifting his head, Buck gazed down into his husband's face, fingers trailed down his jaw, slipping under his chin to tip his head up, then pressed a chaste kiss on his lips. “Never again.” He promised with a crooked smile, then wiggled his eyebrows electing a laugh from Eddie, “the horde awaits, ready?” 

Nodding once again, Eddie reached out and took his hand as Buck turned around, the shout of “surprise” not really a surprise after the greeting they’d given each other. The sound echoed throughout the room though as the entire crew of the 118, and most of their friends and family stood there grinning from ear to ear, with more than one phone pointed in their direction. Too happy to feel embarrassed, Eddie laid his head on his husband’s arm, and stuck his tongue out at them making them all laugh. 

Everyone fell silent as Christopher took a step forward, eyes locked on Buck like he still expected him to disappear, then with a cry he hurried as fast as he could forward, Buck meeting him halfway, picking him up and spinning in a circle, hand smoothing his hair as Christopher broke down in tears. Laying his head on Christopher’s head, he rubbed the boys back, whispering in his ear. It took a few minutes before Chris finally raised his head, face red and blotchy, “you promise?”

Nodding solemnly, Buck held up his hand, pinky extended, Chris staring at it suspiciously, eyes darting between it and Buck’s eyes before hooking his pinky around it, then slid his arms around Buck’s neck again, “I love you, Bucky.”

“Love you, Superman, I love you too.”

Eddie wiped his eyes, seeing more than one person do the same, watching Buck and Christopher’s reunion, and if that caused more tears then his own reunion with his husband he couldn’t blame them as he watched the two most precious people in his life, bring a burst of sunshine into the room as they grinned at each other. Then suddenly his husband was beside him, with Christopher still in his arms, and he was drawn into a three way hug, that caused a few more tears to trickle down his face.

Almost two hours later, after multiple rounds of hugs, kisses or back slaps, jokes,  laughter and even more tears that almost rivaled their wedding, they were allowed to escape, with promises to have supper tomorrow night at the Grant-Nash household. The drive to the house was filled with a comfortable silence, and a not so subtle hum of anticipation that had them exchanging heated looks or lingering smiles. The only touching they did was hold hands, the heavy weight of Buck’s hand feeling like a branding iron against his own. 

Pulling in behind Buck’s jeep, Buck awkwardly used his left hand, throwing the truck into park and turned it off. Staring at the house silently, before turning to look at his husband. Eyes roving over Eddie’s face, as if trying to imprint his image, face softening. Still using his left hand he removed the keys from the ignition and unbuckled his seatbelt and opened the door. Only then did he release Eddie’s hand, jumping out of the truck and grabbing his bag from the back, the slamming of both doors jarring Eddie into action. Fumbling with his seatbelt, he slid bonelessly out of the truck, stumbling as they hit the ground, when suddenly his husband’s solid weight wrapped an arm around his waist, grounding him and keeping him up right. Wrapping his arms around Buck, Eddie laid his head on the solid chest allowing Buck to lead him to the door, and unlocked it, only releasing him to push him in first. Stepping in after him, Buck closed the door and locked it, before dropping his bag, staring at his husband with concern on his face. “You haven’t been sleeping have you?”

Shaking his head, Eddie shrugged, “not really. The bed feels empty and cold without you in it, and the dreams…” he shrugged again, knowing he didn’t have to explain the dreams, Buck had his own share. 

Taking a step forward, Buck caressed Eddie’s face, before cupping his jaw, “I meant what I said, Eds. No more missions, no more radio silence, no twenty four hour meet ups, that leave us both wanting and miserable, no weeks or month long separations. I’m done. Honorable discharge. It’ll take a few weeks to finish the paperwork, and tie up loose ends, but I am finally home for good.”

“Promise?” Eddie’s voice broke, his eyes filling with tears, and Buck’s eyes already filled with love, brightened.

“Need me to make a pinky promise?” He teased, thumbing Eddie’s lower lip.

Shaking his head and opening his mouth Eddie caught Buck’s thumb biting it gently, feeling the thrill in his stomach as his husband’s eyes darkened instantly. Keeping his eyes locked on the blue eyes, Eddie ran the tip of his tongue along the pad, drawing Buck’s thumb into his mouth, sucking on it, then scraping his teeth along the sides. The coil in his gut grew by the second as Buck tensed as if trying not to pounce, his breath quickening, and eyes going even darker.

Releasing the thumb with a pop, he rose on his toes, sliding his arms around the board shoulders, brushing his lips across Buck's shy smile appearing at the edges. “Make me scream, instead?” He asked it like a question, feeling a hint of embarrassment, even though they’d been friends for years, since Christopher’s birth really, then officially dating for six years, and almost married for seven months, sometimes Eddie still felt anxious asking for something in the bedroom, almost as he still expected Buck to laugh at him, not that he ever had, and he didn’t now.

No with a groan, Buck pulled back far enough he could rip his shirt over his head, taking the sling with it, tossing it in a random location, before snatching Eddie’s body back to his. The breath slamming from Eddie as he hit the hard chest, arms a band of steel as he slid his arms down, hands hooking under Eddie’s thighs and lifting him. Carrying him throwing the living room, he trailed kisses down Eddie’s neck, in the hall he nipped and sucked through the shirt Eddie still wore, and in the bedroom, with the door shut behind them, he finally caught his husbands lips, licking his way inside, slowly lowering him to the floor, hands creeping up to tug at the shirt tucked into the pants. 

Feeling the heat of Buck’s hand on the slowly exposing skin, Eddie moaned into Buck’s mouth, fisting his hands into the long then normal curls on Buck’s head, whining when Buck released his mouth, chasing the lips not even realizing Buck was attempting to pull his shirt over his head. Shaking his head, he reclaimed Buck’s lips, fingers biting into Buck’s neck, grinding his hips against his husbands. 

Panting Buck pulled his lips away, to trail kisses along Eddie’s jawline before nipping and sucking a path towards his ear, the panting in his ear spurring him further. “Shirt, Eds.”

Releasing Buck’s head, he lowered his hands reaching between them, undoing Buck’s belt, angling his head better as he gasped out, “rip it.”

A startled laugh escaped Buck, the breath on his neck causing goosebumps to form, then felt Buck’s hand go to the neckline and with a tug the angry snarl of material ripping made Eddie gasp, hands trembling as he successfully undid Buck’s pants reaching his his hand in to curl around the rigid length of his husbands cock, mouth water, and breathing erratic. Buck, surged into his hand groaning low in his throat before growling as he pulled his husband closing, lips clamping into the fleshy juncture of his shoulder, the sting made Eddie hiss and arch into it, the answering growl from Buck’s throat as Eddie’s hand tightening involuntary made Eddie’s legs unsteady. 

Buck gasped, body trembling as he shifted, sliding his leg between Eddie’s so Eddie could grind against his calf, the hitch in Eddie’s throat causing Buck to admit with a hoarse whisper, “not going to last, Eds.” 

Eddie readjusted his hold, stroking the hard, ridged length in his hand, smearing pre-cum. Feeling Buck fingers bury in the curve of his ass, moving him against his thick thigh, Eddie leaned forward, ducking his head to lick at the nipple just within reach, the action causing Buck to jerk and tense, before he clamped his mouth on Eddie’s shoulder, muffled groan enough for Eddie. Even though they hadn’t finished undressing nor had Buck even reached his pants, Eddie jerked, hips moving erratically as he ground against Buck’s thigh, riding out the aftershocks, hand still moving slowly on Buck.

Buck finally pulled Eddie’s hand away with a hiss, overly sensitive. Placing a gentle kiss on Eddie’s lips, Buck laid his head on Eddie’s shoulder and pulled him close, Eddie’s arms automatically wrapping around him, as he lay his head down, neither caring that they stood half naked with cum running down their stomachs, and drying on their pants. Neither said anything either as they each felt tears touch bare skin, as their breathing resumed a normal breathing pattern. Then as they pulled away, wiping the tears from each other’s faces they finished undressing, using the ripped shirt to clean themselves up, before crawling into bed, wrapping around each other as if the other would disappear in the night, neither caring that it wasn’t even seven o’clock as their eyes drifted closed. Both happy and at peace, knowing nothing would separate them ever again.

They slept and woke multiple times in the night, already reaching for the other, aching and ready. Sometimes it was fast, dirty and hard, others times lazy, sweet and loving, but Buck had followed through by making him scream at least twice, and then Eddie had returned the favor, just the sound of Buck’s broken shout enough to send him over the edge. By the time the sun rose, Eddie had lost count of how many times they’d made love, and by rights he should be exhausted, but once again he was already hard grinding against his husbands thigh, sprawled half way across his husbands chest, already fondly his husband harden cock, feeling Buck’s fingers tickling the back of his neck, as he carted his hand through Eddie’s. Shifting his head, Eddie trailed kisses down Buck’s chest, lavishing attention on his nipples. A pleased smirk appearing on his face, hearing Buck’s startled gasp as he bit his side, stomach rippling with tension. Releasing his husband’s cock, he reached behind him for the bottle of lube, it took a moments scramble to find it, as he was still licking and nibbling his way across Buck’s stomach, running his tongue along his abs. Finally feeling the cool bottle, he pulled his arm from under Buck’s head, swinging leg to straddled his husband's lap, moaning as Buck surged up into the contact. With shaking hands, Eddie poured a generous amount of lube into his hand, before directing his husbands hands to Eddie’s thighs. Then rubbing his hands together, he took both of their cocks in his linked hands, both hissing at the sensation and sensitivity they still suffered from. Releasing Evan’s cock, he slid forward and sank down onto the thick head, moan breaking free. “Move me, Evan.” 

Groaning at the order, Buck fingers tightening on his thighs, before the blunt nails, dug into the skin, leaving marks. As he started to move Eddie’s body, almost torturously slow. The mingle hisses, and moans, a symphony on its own. 

After finishing, Eddie used the sheet to wipe them both clean, before collapsing on his husband's chest, shifting so not all of his weight was resting on Buck, but keeping their legs entwined, Eddie smiled as Buck lifted his hand linking the left hands together, spinning the ring around Eddie’s finger. Suddenly Eddie lifted his head, “Athena and Bobby knew you were coming home, who else?”

Startled, Buck opened and closed his mouth, a blush tinging his cheeks, voice stuttering. “What, why-why-why, would you think that?”

Raising a brow, Eddie just looked at him with that ‘really, you’re asking me that?. 

Buck finally chuckled, and admitted, “Maddie, and May.” Buck reached up and pulled his husband back down, smoothing his hand around his neck. “Maddie helped coordinate everything with Mom and Dad, but couldn’t leave without raising suspicion, and then adding Flores to the situation, they brought May into the loop, as someone needed to pick me up.” 

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Eddie asked in a small voice, feeling slightly hurt.

Sighing, Buck tightened his hold, kissing the top of Eddie’s head, “originally I really wasn’t going to make it, the only reason they left me leave early was because of the injury, which is stupid and minor and will heal by the end of the week, yet Lionel signed off on it, and ordered me home at 3am this morning. He tossed me on a military flight into Washington, and arranged for me to transfer to another in DC. I barely had time to call mom at 11 our time to let her know I need to be picked up before I boarded the one from DC, I was going to call, but figured you’d be running around frantic to get everything ready for Chris and didn’t want to add to the stress.” Carting his hands through his husband’s hair, he flexed his chest lifting Eddie’s head. “Once in the air, May and Maddie kept me apprised of the situation, especially when Flores showed up, thus the plan to surprise you was born. Also I had just seen you helping Nia hold Jee and well, that was hot, made me want that for us. So it gave me a good excuse to really show you how much I missed you, and the side benefit was being able to rub her nose in it too. I wanted to March up to her and tell her off for touching you, but it was still just as satisfying to how pissed she was when you stumbled passed her, not sure what happened after that though, all my attention was on you.”

Huffing out a laugh, Eddie lifted his head, “possessive much?”

Buck’s goofy grin spread across his face as he nodded, “so very much, and I’m not sharing.”

Pressing a kiss to his husband's chest, Eddie lay his head down again, fingers absentmindedly circling on his stomach. “I don’t want to be shared, carino.” Shifting he  folded his hand across Buck’s chest laying his chin on it so he could gaze into his face. “Have you been told the theory yet?”

Buck ran his hands through Eddie’s hair, fingers massaging his scalp, making Eddie close his eyes in pleasure. “Parts of it, but I imagine it’ll be rehashed tonight, so we can wait til then. I just wish you’d said something, maybe it could have been nipped earlier.”

Grumbling, Eddie rolled his eyes, “so I’ve been told, but I honestly didn’t even notice it was happening until the zoo incident. It took the better part of the day for Hen, Karen, Athena and Maddie to lay it out for me.”

Smiling at his oblivious nature, Buck smiled and lifted his head, pulling Eddie’s head forward and kissing his lips gently, before teasing his husband. “good thing I jumped your body four years ago, then suggested dating, then proposed too, or I’d still be pining and jacking off all alone in my loft.”

The comical expression crossed between a pout and indignation on Eddie’s face made Buck laugh out loud, squeezing his arms around his husband, rolling him to the side, then levering over him.

Eddie mock glared up at him before smiling, “I’m glad you did, I know I wouldn’t have worked up the courage to do so.”

Eyes tracing Eddie’s face, Buck leaned his head down, brushing his lips over his husbands. “You would have, but we’d still be at the kissing stage.”

Frowning Eddie lifted a brow, “I’m confused, are you saying I’m fast or slow here?”

Groaning, Buck dropped his head on Eddie's chest, “I was trying to have a moment you know.”

Chuckling Eddie smoothed his face into a passive expression, eyes sparkling, “continue Carino, I’m all ears.”

Buck raised his head and scowled at him, face softening, “you’re ridiculous.”

Smirking, Eddie wiggled his eyebrows, “you picked me, something about jumping my body, I believe you said.”

Snorting Buck laughed, “yeah well I’d already had almost five years of pining and jacking off to images of your body and voice, the whiskey gave me an excuse to ignore the little voice in my head trying to talk me out of it.”

Pretending to look shocked and offended, Eddie twisted his head away, “so you’re saying it was the alcohol?”

Buck rolled his eyes, and gripped Eddie’s chin, “You know damn well it wasn’t, I’ve loved you since the first day i saw you.”

Lifting his head, Eddie licked his way into Buck’s mouth, nipping at his lower lip before pulling back, “I know carino, I’ve loved you just as long, or at least a few days later, you were an ass the first couple of days.”

Grinning unashamed, Buck nosed Eddie, “well how else was I going to act when this Gorgeous Greek descendent of a god stepped forward, and smiled at me. Damn near broke my heart when I saw the wedding ring, so I acted out my jealousy.”

Laughing Eddie flicked his nose, “so jealous and possessive?”

“Always.” Buck breathed, eyes glinting with those emotions, “you’re mine, and I don’t have an issue with anyone knowing it.”

Yawning, Buck snuggled his head on Eddie’s shoulder, linking there hands together, pressing a kiss to Eddie’s neck, before whispering, “nap, shower then food?”

Turning his head toward the alarm clock, Eddie groaned, “what time did we promise we’d be at you parents?”

“2… maybe 3… I think.” Buck mumbled already drifting off, sleepily pressing kisses against Eddie’s neck. Reaching for his phone he ignored the texts and set the alarm for twelve, before sliding it back onto the table. Wrapping his arms around his husband, he pressed a kiss to the top of his head, “I love you.”

“Love you.” The response was slow and slurred but automatic even at the half sleep stage he was in. Then feeling Bucks lips pressing against his skin again, Eddie fell asleep smiling.