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“Are you sure about this?” Mel asked on the phone, while rolling out dough for her famous cinnamon-gingerbread rolls. “Isn’t it weird?”
”Why would it be weird?” asked Peter, her now fiancé on the other side.
”Because you won’t be there, and I will be spending Christmas with your family. It’s the most orphan thing I could do.”
”Mel, stop this. It’s gonna be fine, they love you.”
”They met me once, at a really loud restaurant, I even poured champagne on your sister!” Mel cringed from the memory, it was the night of their engagement in September. Peter asked her to marry him on his birthday dinner with his family around. If Mel was honest, she didn’t quite fancy the idea of a proposal in front of other people, but Pete was so genuine, she could not say no. Even if they only started dating in March, Pete said he never felt this sure about anything else before.
”Yet still, they love you.” Pete chuckled, and Mel did too. “Don’t worry about this, sweetie.”
”Okay…” she sighed, putting more flour on the stretching desk. “I miss you though, so much!”
”I miss you, too, but I’ll be home at New Years. I’ll see you then.”
“Can’t wait.” she smiled, Pete just hummed, Mel knew that he was tired so she didn’t drag the conversation out. “You should sleep, and I have to finish baking, so…”
”Yes, okay. Good luck with those buns, honey. Love ya.”
“Love you too, good night.”
Mel stared at her phone for a while, thinking about tomorrow, but then deciding that she will have a good time, no matter what happens. It was really rare that she didn’t have to work holidays at the PTMC, and she did have the 25th and the 26th off, so she will make the best out of it.
She prepared the dough that night, ready to bake, so the next morning she just had to put it into the oven, and put some sugar frosting on them. She was really happy because they turned out perfect, just how they used to make it.
So there she was, standing in front of the nicely decorated door of the Langdon home, knocking, with the fresh cinnamon rolls in one hand.
“Oh my god! Mel, honey!” Susan-Peter’s mother- exclaimed when she opened the door. “Come on in!” she urged. Mel did as she was told. Susan closed the door and immediately pulled Mel into a hug. “It’s so nice to see you again!”
“You too, Susan!” Mel smiled at her, and felt genuine gratitude, she could be there today. “Thank you for having me.”
”Oh don’t even- You are family!” she waved her off. “What do ya’ have here?” she asked curiously about the container she was holding.
“Oh I made some cinnamon rolls, I know you said don’t bring anything, but it’s a family tradition so I thought-“
”Thank you sweetie, you are so thoughtful! Frank will love you for these.” she took them out of Mel’s hands and started to walk towards the kitchen.
Ah yes, Frank Langdon. She heard about him, but never met him once. All she knew that he was the middle child, Pete the oldest, and Samantha -Sam- the youngest. Also Frank was a doctor, at Presby also working in emergency medicine which was a really big surprise for Mel, not really understanding how could they have never met before.
“MEL! Oh my!” Sam suddenly shouted from the top of the stairs and roamed down, to her, basically jumping on her.
”Hey!” Mel laughed. “Good to see you Sammy.”
”You too! You look amazing. Incredible really.” the girl giggled and looked really in awe with her. Mel was wearing a deep green knitted dress that ended at her mid thigh, some black thighs to go with it. Her honey blonde hair in a half up, half down, falling in soft waves into her shoulders and back. Mel’s cheeks flushed, she is not used to compliments, but the Langdon family is really eager to give them.
”Thank you! You look beautiful, too. You always do.” she looked at the girl, who had chestnut brown hair and blue eyes, a really cute button nose and freckles. She just turned 20, and came home from college for the holidays. “How’s college?”
”It’s good, mostly. I have really great roommates, so that’s cool. I’m thinking about changing my major though…” she said as they were walking into the kitchen where her mother was preparing lunch.
”No! Sam, we talked about this.” her mom said, referring to the major change. “Why would you change it? You love psychology!”
”Because! I don’t know if that’s what I really want.”
”You will always have doubts, but that doesn’t mean you have to change.” Mel said, even surprising herself.
“See? Listen to her, if you don’t want to listen to me.” Susan said with heavy nodding.
”But you knew, you wanted to be a doctor.” Sam whined.
”No I didn’t. I knew I wanted to help people, but I wasn’t sure how. I had doubts throughout all college but in the end, it was worth it. Even in the bad days.” she shrugged. “This doesn’t mean, that you can’t change it, but if the only thing that makes you wanna’ do it is doubts…”
”Yes, okay. I get it, thanks.” Sam smiled. “Oh I’m so glad I finally got a sister!” she pulled Mel into a side hug, and Mel’s heart was full.
”Mellie! Gosh, so good to see you!” she suddenly heard Thomas’ -their dad- voice, and she turned towards him.
”Hi Tom!” she smiled, letting herself pulled into a hug. As she smelled him, her eyes instantly teared up , his cologne was just like her father’s. She never wanted to let go.
”How are ya’ honey?” he asked as they pulled away.
”Good, really good.” She could not believe she once thought spending Christmas with them was a bad idea, she never felt happier.
After some time, they were in the living room, waiting for Frank, who worked a night shift, and tried to get himself together for Christmas day. Mel and Sam were playing Scrabble, and The Grinch was playing in the background, Susan was reading and Tom put more wood into the fireplace, when suddenly;
”Oh my GOD Mom! It’s incredible!” someone shouted from the kitchen, then a few moments later barging in with heavy steps, mouth full with the cinnamon- gingerbread rolls Mel made. “It’s the bes’ you eve’ade”
He tried to articulate the words but his mouth was too full, Mel couldn’t help but chuckle.
“Frankie! So nice to see you.” Susan laughed, “You came in from the back?!” Frank just nodded, still chewing. “I’m glad you like those, but Mel made them.” Frank gulped, almost looking like he was struggling, then raised one eyebrow up.
”Who?” Mel chuckled again, now louder, and Sam started to rolling her eyes.
”Pete’s fiancée idiot.” she huffed, and Frank’s eyes finally found them, sitting on the carpet in the living room. Mel got up, and walked towards him, with one hand straightened ahead herself.
”Sorry, it’s me, I’m Mel. Melissa King. Doctor.” She was rambling, why was she nervous? Her palms were sweating, and she regretted reaching for a handshake.
Frank had the bluest eyes she’d ever seen. His face was striking- yes, all siblings were good looking- but he was something else, and his hair, he had the darkest and thickest hair out of all of them, and it made his eyes pop more. Mel suddenly was too aware of what she was wearing and how she was looking, because Frank literally just stared at her, like he was- he was mesmerised?
“Oh my- Mel! Sorry I-“ he accepted her handshake -finally- and introduced himself. “Frank Langdon, also Doctor.” he smiled, and Mel blushed just a little.
“Nice to finally meet you! I’ve heard a lot about you.” Mel said still holding his hand.
“All good things, I hope?” he grinned still not letting go of her hand, but now it’s just kinda hung between them.
“Let’s just say, mostly good things. But everything I learned about you, was interesting!” Shit. Why did she say that? And why does he have that cocky grin on his face?
“I’m so glad you enjoyed every piece of information about me.” he winked at her.
”Still your brother’s fiancé, son.” his dad interrupted, shaking his head. Mel pulled her hand out of Frank’s and stepped back a little, feeling embarrassed.
“What? I can’t speak to my new ‘sissy’?” he pretended that he was offended. The whole room sighed.
“Let’s just get to the presents!” Susan said, getting up from the couch, going to the beautiful christmas tree, that was standing in the corner of the room. Mel didn’t think she had seen, a more striking tree than this. This is the christmas tree they put in catalogs and commercials, she was sure of it.
”Oh Pete said you didn’t really give presents- I didn’t bring any.” she felt embarrassed, looking under the tree.
“Mel, don’t even think about it, our gift is that you are here.” Susan said, smiling at her.
“And those top tier cinnamon rolls, those are the best things that happened to me this year, I swear.” Frank chimed in.
”I’m glad you like them, it’s a family recipe...” Mel smiled at him keeping eye contact.
”Now! The first present is for…” Sam clapped, and started handling out presents, not big ones more like symbolic ones, or meaningful gifts. Mel got a new sweater and a PJ set, and was surprised that Pete left a gift for her here, it was a necklace, a gold one with a ruby medal. It wasn’t exactly something she would wear, it was too extravagant for her, but she still appreciated the thought.
After opening up the presents, they all had ‘brunch’ which mostly consisted of sugar cookies, cinnamon rolls, other sweets and some beverages. They all agreed to have lunch later in the afternoon, now everyone just rested, enjoying the slow day. Sam went upstairs to her room, to call her college friends, Susan and Tom went on a walk to greet the neighbours, so it was Mel and Frank in the living room, sitting next to each other on the couch, watching Love Actually, for the hundred time.
”I could never be bored of this movie .” Mel suddenly said. “It’s just brilliant.”
”I think so, too. I love movies that have multiple plots, and main characters, it’s good for my ADHD brain.” Frank chuckled.
”I can imagine! Oh that’s why you like emergency medicine so much, huh?” she made an assumption, now looking at him. He nodded smiling, looking at her, taking her in. Frank Langdon was a man of many interests, he was always on the go, his mind always racing, but now, sitting next to her, for the first time in his life, he felt at peace, and he didn’t want to be anywhere else but here.
”I’m such an asshole, I didn’t even ask what field you work in?” he snapped out of his staring, realising he doesn’t know anything about her.
”I’m in the ED too. I’m a senior resident at PTMC.”
“Get out! Really? Why didn’t Pete tell me this!” Frank’s mind was blown, how could they have never met before?
”I don’t know.” Mel laughed at his childlike enthusiasm. “I guess he forgot or something, he doesn’t really understand the medical field.” Mel shrugged.
”I know , he is such a business bro, sometimes I can hardly stand him.” Frank chuckled playfully. “Where is he anyway?”
”He is in New York, doing some… business. I don’t know, I don’t really understand what he does either honestly.” Mel smiled, feeling a little bit embarrassed.
”You and me both, then.” Frank laughed. “So why are you not with your family today?” Mel stilled. How could he not know about this? Why isn’t Pete talking about her to his brother?
“My parents are dead, and I don’t have any siblings so-“ she started to play with her fingers, waiting for Frank’s reaction.
“Oh- I didn’t know, I’m so sorry.” he was visibly surprised by her answer.
”No, it’s okay, really. My mom died when I was little, my dad 2 years ago, I only have an aunt who pretty much hates me...” she shrugged her shoulders, smiling bitterly. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to be a bother, it was Pete’s idea-“
”No! Jesus! It’s not why I asked. I’m really glad you are here, don’t get me wrong. I just… I don’t know anything about you other than your name and occupation.” Frank started to ramble, feeling terrible that he made Mel think he doesn’t what her here. He really does.
”That’s weird, right?” Mel pulled together her eyebrows. ”I mean, we’ve only been together since March, but I thought he talked about me.”
“He did, but not to me. We are not the best siblings, we have a weird dynamic, I guess.” His gaze shifted back to the TV, Mel wasn’t sure if she could ask more about it, but Frank continued before she could say anything. “I always looked up to him, but somehow he always seemed jealous of me, and I didn’t really understand why. I only wanted to get along with him, get his ‘big brother’ approval, but because of this we always competed against each other” he shrugged. “I love him, I just wish I knew where things went wrong.” now he was looking at Mel again, waiting for her reaction.
”Pete can be intimidating and insecure at the same time. I don’t really know why, if it’s a personality trait or character flaw… I’m just really sorry you don’t have the relationship you wanted.” she offered a sympathetic smile.
“It’s okay. I don’t really want that relationship anymore, not after-“ he paused, and Mel raised her eyebrows, signaling to him to continue. ”He just not really good at relationships. I’m really surprised you could tie him down. Not because of you!” he instantly corrected himself. ”You are perfect, don’t get me wrong.” Mel’s heart started to beat a little bit faster after his compliment.“It’s just who he is, I guess.” and Mel knew exactly what he was talking about, and she didn’t even think before she answered.
“Oh I know. He actually kissed someone else before proposing to me.” she let out a laugh before even realising the thing she said. Frank looked shocked.
“He- what?” now he turned his whole body to Mel, even leaning closer.
”Oh- I thought you knew about-“ she felt terrible.
”I mean I know how he is, but jesus, he is such a dog! How could he do this to you?!” he looked so upset, Mel didn’t even know what to say, he reacted like he was cheated on personally.
“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have-“ Mel reached out, and touched his arm. “It’s really okay, I swear.”
“No it’s not! He always does shit like this… You deserve better Mel, I’m sorry.” Frank looked hurt and apologetic, even more than his brother when he confessed the cheating to her. Mel appreciated that he didn’t question why she agreed to marry him, even though he cheated on her, because she was not sure she knew the answer.
”I don’t really know what to say- but I hope he can be better and not do something like this again.” she bit her lip, and Frank followed the movement with his gaze. Silence fell between them, Mel was not sure how to continue the conversation. She still had one hand on his arm and she slowly brought it down until she was touching his hand.
“Aren’t you tired?” she asked softly, which made him look away from her lips. “You can sleep if you want.”
”Okay… Will you stay and watch the end of the movie with me?” he asked. She just nodded, and let Frank use her legs like pillows, with his head in her lap. They watched the movie silently and she automatically started to stroke his hair, not even realising it’s not her fiancée. She was invested in the movie and mindlessly ran her fingers through his hair, playing with it, feeling how soft and thick it is, the movements relaxed her, and slowly her eyelids became heavier, and then she drifted away to sleep.
The next thing she remembered was the giggles she heard when her mind was already awake, but still had her eyes closed, trying to figure out what is happening. She felt something heavy and warm on her stomach, then she remembered, they fell asleep, her eyes shot open, looking around.
“They are adorable, like brother and sister, really.” she heard Susan’s voice coming from the kitchen.
”Shit.” she said under her nose, looking at Frank, who was still asleep, hugging her waist, his head on her stomach, even drooling a little. She smiled , and let herself watch him for a few more minutes before she started to move. “Frank.” she nudged his head, and he just grumbled something. “Frank, wake up.”
“No.” he said, holding her even tighter, her heart beating loudly in her ears, heat pooling in her stomach. Why does he have this effect on her?
“Frank, I have to pee.” she didn’t, but needed an excuse to get out of there. Frank groaned and slowly turned to her, pushing himself up to one of his elbows.
“Mornin’ Mel, best nap ever, I have to admit.” he smirked, his hair still looking perfect, even though it was sticking up in every direction possible.
“Glad you enjoyed it.” she said with a little edge in her voice. Frank just laughed, and let Mel get up. She ran to the bathroom and locked the door behind herself. She looked in the mirror, her hair was a mess, mascara smudged, glasses crooked on her nose. Okay, she had to compose herself, because it was not normal to be this affected by someone who is not her fiancee. She just now realised that since her arrival here, she didn’t even think about Peter, not for a second. “You have to get yourself together.” she whispered to herself, looking into her eyes in the mirror. Mel did her hair again, found some wet wipes and cleaned up her makeup, and tried to act normal again.
”Are you ready to eat? It’s almost 4pm.” Susan asked as she was emerging from the bathroom.
“Yeah, sure.” she nodded, suddenly feeling hungry, they were asleep for quite some time. Even the thought of them sleeping together, sent goosebumps down her spine. Focus, Mel. She went into the kitchen, where the others were setting the table.
”I sent Pete a picture of you guys sleeping, it was so funny.” Sam said and Mel tried not to cringe visibly. She was never good at hiding her facial expressions, so of course they noticed her negative reaction to the news. “Oh sorry- I didn’t mean anything bad-“
”No. No, it’s fine. I’m sure he likes the idea of me sleeping with his brother…” she said a little too sarcastic, and now Frank pulled a face.
“I think he will survive, as he is the expert on sleeping with other people-“
”Frank! Enough!” their mother came into the kitchen, hands on her waist, looking serious.
”Ma’ you know it’s true…” he started to argue, staring her down.
”I don’t want to hear a word about this on Christmas.” she gestured with her hands. “Your brother is your brother. We love him as he is, and besides you can’t say stuff like that in front of his soon-to-be wife.”
Wife. This word hit Mel like a punch to the gut. She is about to be the wife of the person everyone knows to be a serial cheater, a womanizer, someone who can’t settle down. She suddenly felt sick. “Excuse me.” she said, and went to grab her coat, she needed fresh air, and she needed to talk to Pete.
After getting out, into the cold air, she felt better immediately. There were no notifications from him, so she just dialed his number, hoping for him to pick up. The line rang, and rang then; ”Hey! What’s up?” she heard his cheerful voice.
“Hi, not much, just wanted to check in.” she said, as normal as possible.
“We just closed a deal, about to have lunch with Casey, some other guys might come too. How are you holding up?”
Casey. The name of the woman he kissed in August at a corporate event, when he was drunk. She is his sales associate, so they worked together pretty much all the time.
”Great, everything’s fine, about to have a late lunch too.” she kicked the snow in front of her, looking at her boots.
”I saw the picture of you guys sleeping.” Mel swallowed, hard. “It must be a doctor thing, you guys drool the same.” he laughed, and Mel felt her body relax. So he is not mad or suspicious, maybe she is the one overthinking the whole situation, she never had siblings so she doesn’t know what’s normal….
“Yeah, he was quite tired after his shift, and we were watching Love Actually, it kinda just happened.” she chuckled, now picking the skin on her fingers.
“Yeah, that movie is boring as hell, I don’t think, there was a time I didn’t fall asleep during it.” he laughed again.
Wrong -Mel thinks- it’s a movie that you watch over and over again and still stays interesting. But she doesn’t say it, she just agrees. “Yeah… Well, I’m glad you are doing okay, have a great lunch… Ah and also, thank you for the necklace.” she remembered suddenly.
“What necklace?” he asked, sounding really confused.
”The gold one with the ruby medal?” Mel furrowed her brows.
“Oh! That! Yes!” he sounded really weird and also Mel could swear she heard him curse under his breath. “Glad you like it, sweetie!” Mel felt really bad from this whole interaction, but didn’t ask anything. She trusts him. “I have to go now, have fun!”
”Yeah, you too!” she said. The call ended, no ‘love you’ or ‘merry christmas’, it was just a click. She stood in the snow for a little while, trying to clear her head again, not thinking those bad thoughts, while playing with her engagement ring.
“Mel?” she suddenly heard a voice from behind her.
“Coming!” she said, turning around, facing the door again, and there was Frank, looking at her like a curious puppy, searching her face.
”Are you okay?” he asked, stepping closer to her, into the soft snow.
“Yes, I just talked to Pete.” she forced a smile, not really meeting Frank’s eyes.
“Listen, what I said before, I shouldn’t have- I am sure he loves you very much, he would be a fool not to.” he said with so much certainty Mel didn’t have any choice just to believe him. And there was that funny feeling again, like when he called her ‘perfect’. So easy, so certain, that there was no other option for her to believe in. She was perfect and she was loved.
“Thank you.” she said, with a genuine smile on her face. “Like I said, I trust him to be better. I do.” she tried to believe her own words too, now.
”Okay.” Frank nodded. “That’s enough for me.” he still held eye contact, seeing something in Mel’s eyes she was not aware of.
”Kids! Food is getting cold!” Tom shouted from the doorway. Frank and Mel grinned at each other, and started to go inside. As they stepped in the hall, and Frank closed the door behind him, Susan exclaimed:
“You guys are under the mistletoe! Ya’ have to kiss, that’s the rule.” she clapped excitedly.
Oh no. Mel shut her eyes, and tried really hard not to blush from head to toe.
“Mom, seriously?” Frank sensed Mel’s discomfort and tried to get out of the situation.
“What? You guys are practically family, it’s normal.” she waved him off.
It’s so not normal-Mel thought- it could be normal if she didn’t have a developing, forbidden crush for him, but right now it’s the worst thing that could happen.
“Just kiss me, it’s fine.” she suddenly said, without even thinking, looking up at Frank, who looked equally confused and surprised. Mel tried to ease the situation by puckering her lips and closing her eyes, which fortunately made everyone laugh in the room. Frank laughed too, and quickly gave her a peck on her lips. Mel hated how she automatically leaned into it, and she hated how she wanted it to be longer and deeper. She was the worst person ever.
”Satisfied?” he then asked his mother, and Mel finally opened her eyes, being really grateful she didn’t have to look into Frank’s eyes.
“Very.” she grinned. “Now come eat!”
They sat at the table, Susan next to Mel, Frank directly across from her, next to him Sam and at the head of the table Tom. They talked about basically everything and anything, Mel didn’t think she could laugh this much, and also eat this much. Susan was an excellent cook. The topics ranged from “how was work” to “when I was young.” Now they were at ‘celebrity crushes.’
“Oh I loved Tom Selleck. That moustache, and all that charisma! I wanted a man just like him!” Susan gushed, even blushing a little.
”Well you got the ‘Tom’ part.” Sam said sarcastically, and everyone laughed. “My type would be Drew Starkey for sure, that man is gorgeous.” she said while putting an other bite of food in her mouth. “Mel?” she asked while chewing. Mel swallowed her food, thinking.
”Well, her type is obvious.” Susan chimed in, nudging her shoulder, meaning Peter. Mel smiled, thinking about him, his light brown hair, and not like his siblings, his green eyes. He was good looking but not Mel’s ‘obvious’ type, she usually liked men with more contrast.
”I’m more like a personality kinda girl.” the whole table groaned, so she continued chuckling. “But! I think Patrick Dempsey would be my type. Ever since I watched ‘Can’t buy me love’ I was sold.”
”Also he plays a charming doctor, so yeah, I got you.” Sam nodded approvingly.
“Yeah, that too. I like smart men I guess.” she shrugged.
“So what are you doing with Pete?” Sam asked again, now sarcastically, and it made Mel and the others laugh again. She put up her hands, in an ’i don’t really know’ way.
”He can be really persuasive, we have to give him that.” she said still smiling. Her gaze shifted to Frank who was really quiet, but looked unreasonably pleased, keeping eye contact with her.
”Oh I bet he talked your head off!” Tom agreed to Mel’s statement smiling. “Frank, your turn.” he said, Frank turning his head to him, tearing his eyes from Mel.
“My type?” Frank slightly looked at Mel again, just for a mere second others not even registering it. “Redhead, green eyes.” he took a sip of his water.
“Bullshit.” Sam rolled her eyes.
“Sam!” their mom exclaimed from across the table. “Language!”
“You like blondes with big doe eyes.” she stated, not even phased by her mother.
“Shut up! You don’t know what I like.” Frank argued back.
Mel couldn’t help just to smile at her lap, her cheeks reddening just a little, and when she looked up again, she accidentally made eye contact with Frank, who obviously noticed her reaction, and pulled his mouth into a cheeky smirk, pulling one eyebrow up. “Oh God.” Mel thought “I’m in trouble.”
After this late lunch/early dinner they were gathering in the living room again. Sam wanted to watch a movie, so they all agreed on “The family Stone”, which was an other classic Mel loved, she always watched it with her dad.
Her and Frank were sitting next to each other again, on the couch, even sharing a blanket now, it was way more intimate than it should have been.
“Eggnog? Mel?” Tom asked, and she shook her head.
“No, thanks. I still have to drive home.”
”WHAT?” Sam shouted, scaring Mel a little. “You are not sleeping here?”
”No- I didn’t even think-, Pete didn’t say anything about a sleepover.”
”Mel, you have to stay the night, it’s Christmas, please don’t leave me!” Sam sounded too eager and dramatic to say no to, also she was kneeling in front of her, practically begging.
“Okay, okay. But I don’t have any clothes.” she looked around the room.
”Oh you can wear my old ones.” Frank said. “I have some good PJ materials.” he smiled, and Mel felt gooey inside.
“Yes! Oh I’m so happy! Dad can I drink too? I’m almost 21!” she clapped excited.
”Yes, but not too much pumpkin.” Tom laughed.
They were watching the movie, and everyone had at least one cup of Eggnog, so the mood was very good in the room, everyone shared their actual thoughts on the plot. Mel was really relaxed, so she splayed out a little, her legs ending up in Franks lap, who took the opportunity and stroked them under the blanket, and no one seemed to care.
”What a beautiful big family! I love it!” Susan put her hand on her chest. “Mel do you want kids?” Susan asked more softly, looking at her from across the loveseat.
”Yes.” she answered immediately, “1 boy and 1 girl. I even know the boy’s name.” she smiled at her. “Although Peter said he was not sure about kids…”
”He did? Oh that’s just sad, I want grandchildren.” she clutched her chest dramatically.
“Darlin’ don’t be so dramatic, you know Frank wants a family….” Tom said, stroking Susan’s hair.
”You do?” Mel asked him surprised, and in a bit of awe.
”Yes, I do.” he said, looking at her with such tenderness, her heart skipped a beat. “Don’t look so surprised but I also want a boy and a girl, and I also know the boy’s name.”
”What is it?” Mel asked, eagerly. The others were watching the movie again, not really minding them, it was like they were in their own world. Frank still stroked Mel’s leg, his hands warming it through her thighs.
“Tanner.” Mel felt like her world just turned upside down, not believing what she was hearing. “I was a Full House fan, when I was a kid, and he was my comfort character.” he shrugged, and Mel’s jaw was dropped. “What?” ha asked, pulling his eyebrows together, not really understanding her expression.
”I-“ she was in shock. “Would you believe me, if I said that I wanted to name my son Tanner too?” now Frank’s jaw dropped just a little. “My dad’s name was Tanner, and I also loved Full House but- It’s because of him obviously.” she swallowed, looking at Franks reaction, which was equally shocked and endeared.
“Wow. It’s crazy. What are the chances…?” he looked like he really was thinking about something, almost calculating, while looking intensely at her and her lips, again.
”Yes. Crazy.” Mel bit her lips, and forced herself to watch the movie, trying to ignore how Frank held her legs tighter than before.
The plot of the movie hit too close to home right now: fianceè meets the family but she gets along better with the guy’s brother, and also the guy instantly clicks with the fiancés sister. Eventually they all end up together.
“I’m very against cheating, but in this case I can justify it.” Sam said, reacting to the plot. “I mean they obviously just clicked with the other more. Some soulmate shit is going on there. ”
”Sammy! Since you went off to college, you curse a lot more.” Susan’s said, shaking her head.
“Sorry mom, it’s the eggnog I swear.” she grinned at her mother, who just rolled her eyes smiling. “But yeah, it’s crazy how they have never met before but just got along instantly, like they were destined to meet and being with somebody else was the only way for them to do it.” she continued, quite poetically.
”Yeah, some meetings are like that, huh?” Frank agreed, looking directly into Mel’s eyes, and she knew exactly what he was thinking, because she was thinking it too.
”Yes, some are like that.” she replied, quietly, not breaking eye contact.
When the film ended, it was around 9pm, and Mel started to get uncomfortable in her dress.
”Okay, I need to shower, and get into PJs.” she said, after chugging down her fourth cup of eggnog.
”Great, let me grab you some clothes.” Frank said, and escorted her up, into his old bedroom. It was a usual boy’s room, except it wasn’t, because he didn’t have naked women on the walls or rock bands it was scientists, anatomical illustrations and even a human skeleton in the corner.
“Wow, so you were a nerd.” Mel said, without thinking again.
”You say it like you weren’t.” he chuckled while digging in his wardrobe for clothes.
“But you don’t look the part, I did and I do now.” she pointed to her glasses. “You look like some football star.”
”Nah, I am just a nerd who had a glow up in high school.” he just shrugged.
“Oh that’s worse.” Mel replied, standing next to him, he just turned to her furrowing his brows.“Why?”
”You had confidence because you were smart, right?” she started to explain, and Frank nodded amused. “But after, you got the confidence from looking great too, so you have it doubled. No wonder you are cocky.” she chirped.
”Cocky? You think I’m cocky?” Frank chuckled, not believing his ears.
“Yes I do.” Mel nodded, crossing her arms, in front of her.
”Wow, Doctor King, you are a mean drunk.” he put his hand on his heart like he was offended.
”Oh please- like you don’t know this about yourself.” she rolled her eyes, mocking him.
”I do, but still- hearing it, it’s an other kind of hurt.” he still played into the dramatic role, and Mel was very much enjoying it.
After getting the clothes and a towel, and taking a quick shower she finally could feel comfortable again. She was wearing a t-shirt that said ‘i wear this shirt periodically’ and had a whole periodic table printed on it, and also some baggy pants, with some christmas socks. She braided her hair with a few loose pieces, and went downstairs, seeing what the others were up to.
”Come Mel! You have to sing a song with me!” Sam practically dragged her into the room. Everyone was in PJ’s now, it all felt very cozy and domestic.
“No! I can’t sing for dear life!” she started to make excuses, but Sam didn’t let her get out of it, and because Mel was just tipsy enough, she just said yes after a while. They were singing ‘Baby please come home’ reading the words off the big TV screen, screaming their lungs out, having so much fun, Mel forgot to feel, even a bit of embarrassment about the whole thing. They danced together, jumping around the room, and everyone else was just laughing at them, enjoying their carefree moments.
”She is great, isn’t she?” Susan whispered to Frank as they were watching the girls have fun. “I’m so glad your brother brought her home.”
“Yes, she is amazing.” he replied, watching her, his eyes never leaving her. Even though it was always the other way around, Frank couldn’t help it in this moment, but he felt -for the first time in his life- jealous of something that his brother had and he didn’t.
After a few songs, Frank and Mel were on the couch. It was yet another time they ended up next to each other.
”I don’t think I’ve mentioned it before but I have an interview at PTMC, I want to transfer.” He whispered to Mel, while Tom was singing “My Way” with his whole body and soul put into it.
”No way! Really?” she became very excited.
”Only if it’s not weird for you. For the record I got the interview before I even knew who you were. I’m not a creep, I swear.” he put his hands up and Mel laughed.
”Sure sure…” she joked but then she got serious. “It would be great to work with you, Frank. I’m sure you are a brilliant doctor.” she said genuinely and couldn’t help but felt proud that she caused the look on Franks face, and the smile on his lips.
”Thank you, I’m really looking forward to work with you.” Mel just bit her bottom lip and smiled, turning her head back to Tom, trying to calm herself down.
Mel loved every second, she could spend with the Langdon family, her heart was full and overwhelmed, because she finally felt like she had a family again, and it was everything she ever wanted.
It was around midnight, when the last drop of eggnog was consumed, and every single karaoke song was sung, when everyone decided it was time to sleep.
Everyone said their good night’s, and went into their room. Mel was assigned to Peters room upstairs -of course-, in between Sam’s and Frank’s. As she was going upstairs, she suddenly remembered she never checked on her phone since coming inside in the afternoon, so she went into the entrance hall, searching in her coat for it. She was all alone in there, only christmas lights bringing some brightness into it. Suddenly she heard steps from behind her, and she knew exactly who it was.
“I just have to ask… Patrick Dempsey. Really?” Frank asked, coming behind her.
”What? What about him?” Mel asked confused, she could not understand how this -their one topic of conversation from the dining table- is relevant right now.
”Cmon’. Dark hair, blue eyes, doctor… You could’ve just said me.” he leaned on the wall with his shoulder, arms folded, and a very infuriating smirk on his face.
”Since when are you a celebrity?” Mel asked, stopping the search for her phone in her coat, turning her full body to Frank.
“So you don’t deny it.” Frank’s smile grew.
”Deny what?” Mel was too tipsy from the eggnog to understand what’s happening.
“That you could’ve just said me. That I’m your type.” he said it like it was a fact.
”Oooh” Mel laughed, now understanding where this is all coming from. “You are so full of yourself, do you know that?” she knocked her head to the side, not breaking eye contact.
”Yes I know, and I’m pretty sure you like that about me.” he raised his eyebrows, and Mel swallowed, not trusting herself with words right now.
“Frank.” she said, warning.
”Melissa.” Frank stepped closer, their bodies radiating heat, and both of them could feel the other’s. “Not denying again.”
”I’m your brother’s fiancée.” she said, not sure to whom. To herself or to Frank, because standing this close to him, she really needed something she could morally hang onto.
Frank’s eyes roamed on her face, frequently stopping on her lips.
”Yet, we are standing under the mistletoe again.” he swallowed, and Mel’s heart was racing, suddenly feeling thankful for the amount of alcohol in her system. She stared at him, biting her lips and for the first time ever, she let herself not to do the right thing.
”Well then..” she stepped closer, pulse hammering in her ears. “Who am I to break the tradition?” and this was the ‘green light’ Frank was waiting for. He leaned down, putting his hands on the sides of Mel face, pulling her into the kiss. It was eager and tender at the same time. She had never been kissed like this before, her full body had a reaction, stomach doing backflips, mind going blank. She pulled him even closer, by his t-shirt, even though it was almost impossible, because their bodies were already clasped together, Frank giggled at her eagerness, and deepened the kiss more, Mel opened her mouth a bit so their tongues could meet. What started as a Christmas kiss, turned into the most intense make out session Mel has ever experienced.
She could not tell how much time had passed, an hour or a few minutes when she heard someone getting out of the bathroom. She suddenly realised what she was doing, and pushed Frank away.
”What-“ Frank asked, his hair messed up, his lips swollen, t-shirt wrinkled.
“We can’t do this- we. Oh my God!” Mel was freaking out, she put her hands on her mouth.
”But we already did it, so-“ he stepped closer again
”So, I’m stopping this.” she put her hands up before her. “I’m not like this- I have to go to sleep.” She shakes her head, feeling terrible, staring to go towards the stairs.
”Mel! Please-“ he started to go after her, grabbing her hand.
“Frank, just let me go- please.” she whispered now, trying really hard to stay calm.
”I can’t, Mel. And you can’t deny that there is something between us.” he whispered back, eager to hear her answer.
“I’m not denying anything, but- It’s insane, we can’t do this!” she was on the verge of tears, she was so disappointed in herself, how could she do this? “Maybe if I had met you instead-“ she cut herself off because it was just too cruel. “-but right now, I am wearing your brother’s ring.” she shook her head.
“My brother is probably having sex with somebody else, in New York, right now. ” Frank said with such raw honesty and disgust, Mel felt sick.
”You don’t know that-“ one tear fell from Mel’s eye.
“Trust me, I know him. I knew him when he slept with all my girlfriends, and then their girlfriends, and then cheated on them too. Mel, you deserve so much better, please, let’s just forget about him-“ he was grabbing her hand like his life depended on it, while whispering.
”Do you realise, that you are doing the same thing, you despise in him? Is this the better I deserve?” Mel asked him, holding his gaze, seeing how his face dropped. “Frank, I don’t want to hurt you, but this is an impossible situation, and whatever is going on between us, we have to stop it, now. Before it turns into something really ugly.” she freed her hand from his, and without an other word she went up the stairs, and locked the bedroom door behind herself.
The next morning, she left early, leaving a note, that she had to go feed the cat she didn’t have. After getting home, she took a really long shower, and tried to gather her thoughts, and really wished that she had a shift today, so she had something else to think about.
She felt awful, but she felt more terrible about the fact that she didn’t regret anything. That night with Frank was one of the best nights she had in her life, and she couldn’t help but wonder what could’ve happened if she’d met him instead of Pete.
After cleaning the whole apartment, making a batch of cookies, binge watching Friends she still only could think about Frank Langdon, his hair, his smile and his lips…. God! She has to stop, she has to get out. Then she had the craziest idea. She grabbed her car keys, and went to the nearest animal shelter.
After about an hour she was back with her new friend, named Lucy, who was the sweetest tuxedo cat in the world.
“Hi, baby!” she opened her carrier, and held her up in the air. ”I’m gonna love you forever, I swear.”
She put out her freshly bought bowl, and litter box while Lucy was looking around the place, investigating every corner.
Mel was reading the manual of the cat tree she was putting together when someone knocked on the door. She didn’t even look up from the manual she was reading, she walked to the door and opened up.
“I told you, I don’t have your mail-“ then she saw that it was not her annoying old neighbour Berta, it was very much the man that occupied every corner of her mind . “Oh. Frank. What are you doing here?” she asked very much surprised.
”Sorry. My mom insisted that I bring you some leftovers, and I also wanted to check if we are okay…and I know you don’t have a cat so….” he shrugged.
”Yes, I do.” she scoffed. “Her name is Lucy, and I very much have her.”
”Really?” Now Frank was the surprised one. “Since when?”
”Since-“ she stopped, and but chewed on her bottom lip for a moment.”-today.”
“You adopted a cat today.” Frank laughed. “Why?”
“Because-“ Mel herself didn’t really know the answer to this question so she decided to not answer it. “- what do you want exactly?” she asked, while reaching for the container of food Frank was holding. He gave it to her and scratched the back of his head, like he was embarrassed a bit.
”To be honest, I just wanted to see you, Mel.”
This answer made Mel’s heart drop to her stomach, because she was dying to see him all day, as well. But there was no way, he could know that.
”Wanna’ see my cat?” she asked in response, and relieved when Frank nodded smiling.
Of course Lucy immediately fell in love with Frank, she could not stop purring, she was even drooling while doing it. He helped Mel finish the cat tree and made small talk, while doing it. Mel couldn’t help but notice how well they worked together, and already started to imagine their days at PTMC.
“What’s your plan for New Year’s eve?” Frank asked, as he took a sip of his tea and setting it down on the coffee table. As he was sitting on the couch, Lucy of course in his lap, purring. Mel -being smart- was nowhere near him, she was in the armchair within a respectable distance.
”Pete is coming home that day, so we will spend it together.” she could see the disappointment on Frank’s face. “You?”
“Probably picking up a shift, I don’t have anyone to spend it with.” he shrugged while petting the cat, looking at her.
Mel being herself, she didn’t even think about what she said next. “You could always spend it with me.” Frank picked up his head, eyes wide. “I mean, us. Your brother and me.” she corrected herself, but her face was already too red.
”It’s not a good idea Mel and you know it.” he said with a tone that made very clear what he was thinking about. Mel just nodded, and looked into her steaming mug.
The idea of both of them being there, all over her was very strange and unsettling. But the most uncomfortable thing was that Mel wished that Peter would stay in NY just for an other day, so she could spend that day with Frank. Gosh, she really is a terrible human being.
”She really likes me,huh?” Frank said, looking at Lucy making biscuits at his lap, drooling once again.
“Can’t blame her, you are very likeable.” Mel said, but regretting it immediately, biting her lips. “Pete doesn’t like cats, but I think it’s gonna be fine.” she continued, not leaving time for Frank to react to what she was saying before.
“He doesn’t?” Frank raised his eyebrows, now looking at Mel, who just nodded. “Such a shame, she is adorable, I always wanted one.”
Of course he did, Mel thought. He is perfect for her in every way possible, and it is just as annoying as heartwarming.
“Why are you so quiet?” he asked, with curious eyes.
”I’m not.” Mel answered with a firm tone.
”Yes you are. Yesterday you talked my ear off.” he pushed.
”It was the eggnog.”
Frank just scoffed at her answer. “Sure, whatever you say.” he shook his head.
“Maybe you should go... Thanks for your help and the food also.” she stood up from her armchair, and Frank put Lucy down and got up too, staring at her, and Mel didn’t know what to do, her whole body was heating up, from his intense gaze.
”Why are you with him, Mel?” he finally asked while taking one step closer to her. Mel just let out a laugh.
“I won’t have this conversation with you, Frank. There is absolutely no way.” she gestured with her hands.
”Please. Tell me. I need to know because I’m going insane!” he was now a step closer and Mel was standing still.
“Frank.” her voice was sharp, trying to sound serious.
”Do not tell me you don’t think this is insane between us! The similarities, the way we understand each other-“
”I know, I know!” she interrupted, her hands flying in the air between them. “It’s just- He is my family Frank, I don’t have anybody, you have to understand that he is the only one I have, and he wants to be with me, and marry me and have a family!” she felt her tears in her eyes, trying to blink them away.
“Is that it?” Frank looked at her, eyebrows furrowed.
“What? Is this not a good enough reason for you? That someone- who is your brother by the way- is serious about me, and may be my only chance to have a family again?”
”Mel, I am serious about you too. If you want I will marry you tomorrow, I don’t care.” his voice was sincere and his face serious.
Mel stilled, and her eyes widened. This cannot be real life. Frank Langdon, whom she knew for less than 24 hours, would willingly and happily marry her. It was scary, but the way Mel would have said yes to him, was scarier.
”Don’t say things you don’t mean” she finally replied, her voice cracking with emotion.
“I’m not.” he stepped closer, now having to look down at her. “What I am not hearing is that you love him, Mel.” he took a deep breath. “And I need-” he stopped, licking his lips. “Need to know that you are marrying him because you love him, and not because you decided that this is your only chance for something.” his hands came up to her face, cradling it, and wiping away the tears that were falling on her cheeks.
Mel didn’t even notice that she was crying. She was overwhelmed with emotions she never felt before. The whole thing felt too much to her. She was lonely for most of her life and suddenly two men were promising her the things she wants the most.
She leaned into Frank’s touch, and closed her eyes. She tried to calm herself down and way Frank was caressing her cheeks with his thumb really helped her.
She could finally open her eyes to answer him. “I can’t do this Frank. I am not like this, and I do love him. He gave me something that I didn’t have for a long time.”
Frank was searching her face, his own expressions darkened, they were clouded with disappointment. “What was it?”
”Hope.” Mel said, looking into Frank’s eyes, now holding his forearms as he was still cradling her face.
“I can give you that.” he whispered, his voice coming out husky. “I can give you anything you want, and more. Just say the words.”
”You know it’s not that simple.” she shook her head. “How would you feel? If this happened in the opposite way.” Frank let go of her face, and took a deep breath. He finally understood the absurdity of this whole situation. He was looking away from her, biting the inside of his cheek.
“I wish it would have.” he whispered. “Because I would have had the chance to be with you, even for a little while.”
Mel’s breath hitched in her throat, and she felt her heart physically breaking. The look Frank had on his face was devastating. She couldn’t wrap her head around the fact, that he could feel this strong about her. She couldn’t even get a reply out, before he started to get his coat. “I need to go.” he bent down to pet Lucy one more time, before heading to the door. He was almost out of the house, when he turned back for a moment. “I’m sorry for ruining your Christmas. I really wish you the best, in every way possible.”
Mel was still in shock, standing in her living room, looking at his leaving figure, but she managed to say something back. “Thank you. I wish you well, too.” she swallowed, Frank just waved and closed the door behind himself.
Mel almost immediately, collapsed on the couch, trying to process everything that happened, her face buried in her hands, she just started sobbing.
Lucy jumped up next her, and meowed, trying to express her worries. Mel looked at her through tears and let the cat climb into her lap. “What are we gonna do, Lucy?” she whispered to her, while stroking her soft fur.
The next time Mel saw Frank was the 29th of December, and she was at the PTMC, working her shift. Since the day they had that conversation, Mel was torn, suddenly questioning everything that she believed in. Her mind constantly running, thinking about ways how this whole thing could work out.
She was eager and happy to work difficult cases so she could have the distraction she needed, because this whole situation was eating her alive.
She was at the nurses station, doing some paperwork, when Dr. Shen, stepped beside her.
“Are you okay?” he asked simply, drinking his usual coffee order, pulling one eyebrow up. Mel flinched a little, she was not expecting him.
“Oh! Yes, sure. Why?” she asked, curious why did he feel the need to approach her.
“You just seem a little… out of it.” he shrugged, scanning her face. Mel cringed, she didn’t like the idea of others seeing that she is struggling with something.
“Nothing really…” she lied. “But I adopted a cat.” her face lit up a little.
“Really?” John’s voice was surprised.
“Yes! I’ve became a cat lady!” she grinned. “Look!” she pulled her braid to her front. “My hair tie has cats on it, even.”
Shen held her braid softly, so he could get a closer look at the hairtie. “Wow.” he said, trying really hard to keep a straight face. “It suits you.”
“Thank you! I think so too…” she was about to say something else, but she saw Shen’s eyes drift away from her, and settle on something behind her, making his face confused. She almost asked what it was, but then she felt a presence closely behind her. She turned around immediately and found herself facing a very familiar chest, she had to tilt her head up, to confirm that this is definitely…
”Frank?” her voice was high. “What- what are you doing here?” she asked, stepping back a little to look get a better look at him. She wished she never turned around, because he was looking even better than the last time she saw him. He definitely got a haircut, the edges of his hair looked cleaner, and the strands shorter, making him even more masculine. He was wearing a navy blue t-shirt and some lighter blue jeans, he looked unfairly good.
“Hi, Mel.” he said, looking at her. “I had my interview, I told you about.” he looked like he was measuring up Dr. Shen, and Mel felt a bit uncomfortable.
“Ah yes, I remember.” she looked at John next to her, sipping his coffee with a questioning look. “This is Doctor John Shen.” she gestured. “John, this is Doctor Frank Langdon.”
”Oh Langdon!” Shen exclaimed. “So you are the brother!” he reached out to shake hands with him, and Frank did the same.
“Yes, I am. Nice to meet you.” he smiled a little, then his eyes immediately turned to Mel, who was feeling extremely anxious from this whole interaction.
“I should go back to work.” said Shen, thankfully sensing the awkward vibes. “Meet me when you are done here.” he put a hand on Mel’s shoulder, before turning around and leaving.
“So how was your intervie-?” she started conversation.
“Are you guys close?” Frank asked immediately.
“Oh- ohm not particularly, why?” she furrowed her brows.
”Why was he touching your hair?” he asked, and Mel almost laughed but stopped herself because she saw Frank’s serious face.
”I showed him my hairtie. It has cats on it- why do you care?” she tilted her head.
“I’m just trying to figure out if you are some kind of player or not?” he shrugged, his voice was very passive aggressive.
“What? What are you talking about?” she shook her head not understanding a single thing that’s happening.
”Because if you want to cheat at least cheat with me….”
Mel’s mouth fell open, immediately moving closer to him, trying to shush him. “Are you drunk? What even is this conversation?” she was highly offended.
“I don’t know, it’s just weird, the whole thing….” he put up his hands. Mel just grabbed it and pulled him outside, and pushed him next to a wall, where nobody could hear them.
”Are you jealous or something? Because you can’t be. The only person here who can be jealous is your brother! And he has every right to be!” she shook her head. “You should be jealous of yourself!” Mel was full on spiralling, this can’t be a real conversation. ”This is ridiculous!” she burrowed her face into her hands.
”Yes! Yes you are right, I’m ridiculous, I’m sorry. I don’t know what I thought. I just-“ he dragged his hands through his hair. “I’m going insane.”
”So am I!” Mel exclaimed. She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. “Listen, if we want to work together, we have to move on from this. And I want to work with you! I think we would make a great team.” she was sincere, looking into his eyes. Frank let out a deep sigh.
“Me too. I want to work with you. Fuck! Okay, we can do this. I can do this, I’m sorry.” he was looking at her with puppy eyes.
”It’s okay.” Mel said, feeling some kind of relief. She looked at him again. “I like your haircut.” she smiled, trying to ease the tension.
”Not helping!” he said though his teeth. “But thank you.” he smiled at her finally. “By the way…I’m transferring on January 1st, so I am working the night shift on New year’s Eve here.”
”Oh okay.” it’s really fast, Mel thought. “That will be crazy, but I think you will like it.”
”Yeah. I think so too.”
They looked at each other for a minute, not knowing what to say, when someone called for Mel.
“I have to go. I’ll see you in January then!” she said, as she was stepping away.
”See you then, Mel.” he smiled bitterly.
Mel knew she was doing the right thing, the only thing she didn’t understand that why was it so painful. Is it supposed to feel like this?
According to their plans, Pete’s plane landed in the morning of 31st. She is getting ready to collect him from the airport when her phone rings.
“Hey! Did you land, already? Is everything okay?” she asked, with a little bit of concern.
”Yes, everything is fine. Listen sweetie, I need to go into the office to finish up some paperwork.” Pete explains. “We can meet in the afternoon, and still spend the night together.”
”Oh, okay…” Mel has a terrible gut feeling that she tries to ignore. “I’ll see you then, I guess.”
”Okay, bye now.” he ended the call suddenly. Mel could hear a woman’s laugh in the background of the call, she is almost certain it was Casey. But right now, with everything she did, there is no way she is entitled to feel jealous.
She later on the day, before noon, decided that she will visit Pete in his office. What else could she do? They are engaged for Christ sake. She drove to the building, and took a deep breath before getting out of the car. The receptionist already knew her, so they greeted each other and Mel was on her way to the elevator, going up to the 9th floor.
As she was getting out of it, she could hear the same laugh she heard in the phone call. She slowly walked closer to Pete’s office, listening very intently.
“-why are you spending it with her?” she could hear Casey’s voice.
“Was a week not enough for you with me, baby?” Peter said, and Mel felt sick.
“You know I always want you around.” she heard a kissing sound. “I just don’t understand why you don’t break up with her. We’ve been doing this since August…”
”It’s more fun this way. Besides I love her, she is really smart, and kind. She is really good wifey material.” Mel wants to throw up. She knows she is not a saint but this is too much. Her legs move before she can register it, so she is now standing in the door, looking directly at them, as Casey sits in Pete’s lap, in a short black dress.
“Mel! Oh my God!” Pet jumps up, and the woman on his lap falls down with a big thud. “This isn’t-“
”I heard everything, Pete. And I’m not stupid. “ Mel stepped into the office. Casey, poor Casey, was struggling to stand up from the ground, Mel almost went over there to help her. She stepped to the desk and put her engagement ring down on it.
Pete was looking at her movements in shock. “Wait- no-“
”Just let me go Peter. You don’t want this, and I don’t want this either.” she shook her head. “I just wish you’d have told me. Finding it out like this… I hoped you respected me more.” she smiled bitterly, and followed Casey with her eyes as she finally stood up, looking embarrassed.
“I’m really sorry Mel. I never wanted to hurt you.” Pete looked like he was genuinely sorry. Casey nodded too.
They looked so pathetic next to each other, like little kids getting caught stealing candy, Mel couldn’t even be angry. The only thing she felt was relief. Relief that now she could have a reason to end this.
Mel smiled bitterly at Casey. “I think I have your necklace.” her eyes wandered to the earrings she was wearing, they were a perfect match with it. Casey reached for her ears trying to cover them, redness appearing on her cheeks. “I’ll give them back, when you come for your stuff.” she was now talking to Pete, who just nodded.
“Okay then-“ she cleared her throat, stepping back, making her way out of there. “Happy New Year!.” she cringed a little, the whole situation was awkward, she couldn’t wait to be over with it.
”Yeah, Happy New Year, Mel.” Pete said, but couldn’t really meet Mel’s eyes. After a few more awkward moments, Mel was finally out of there, she sprinted to her car, and as she got in, she started crying.
She had to cry this out. Yes she cheated on him also, but it was different. She didn’t lead him on, didn’t propose to him while actively being with someone else, she’d never been betrayed like this. Something broke in her, and ugly thoughts of never being enough creeped in her head.
After getting home, she took a long shower, trying to wash away everything she felt. Later she was on the couch, watching horror movies with Lucy in her lap, binge eating the cookies she baked and some chips she found in her pantry. Somewhere between in those activities she fell asleep. When she woke up, it was 8pm, and very dark outside. She heard her neighbours partying, screaming, laughing, she totally forgot about New Year’s eve until this point.
As she was laying on the couch, now awake, listening to the noises and music from the neighbouring apartments, she could only think about one thing. More likely one person. She hesitated for a second before grabbing her car keys, but then did it anyway.
She put her coat on top of her pyjamas, pulled on some boots, and was out of the house. She didn’t even think while driving, the route was muscle memory. She parked and hopped out of the vehicle, rushing into the building with big steps.
“Mel! Are you okay?” she heard
Abbot’s voice. She probably looked crazy , with her messy hair and not very hospital compatible fit.
“Yeah, don’t worry. Where is Doctor Langdon?” she asked while trying to finger comb through her hair.
”I believe he is with a patient…- are you sure you okay?”
”Yes!” she was louder she’d liked to be. “Can you please tell him, to meet me in the ambulance bay, when he is done?” she looked at Jack desperately.
”You got it.” He nodded and Mel did to, she turned around and walked out, resting her back and head on a wall, taking a deep breaths. After a few minutes she heard someone approaching.
“Mel?” she heard the familiar voice. “What are you doing here?” he asked, confused and concerned, as he spotted her, and got closer.
“Hi! Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you or anything…” Mel’s confidence from the beginning was gone now, she was fidgeting with her fingers. “I just wanted you to know that you were right.” His eyebrows furrowed.”Pete was cheating on me. Since August, it turns out.” Frank’s eyes widened, his mouth almost fell open, but he still couldn’t get a word out.
”So yeah… I just wanted you to know.” Mel tried to fill the awkward silence between them.
“You wanted me to know.” he said, repeating her, giving the words a newfound meaning. Mel just nodded, biting the inside of her cheek. Frank stepped closer, his gaze was on the concrete, looking like he was thinking hard.
“Is it really mean to say, that I’m glad he fucked up?” he looked up at Mel, and she let out an amused sigh.
“A little bit.” she smiled. “But it would not be out of character of you.”
“Yeah, I’m not a very good person, am I?” he chuckled.
”I think you are. You can be.” Mel swallowed, seeing something twinkle in Frank’s eyes.
“I will need your guidance, then.” he said soft and certain. And Mel felt something flutter in her chest. And this time she didn’t want to run away from it.
* 2 years later *
Mel was baking her famous cinnamon rolls again, when she had to step out of the kitchen to get the cat off the tree.
“No! Lucy, don’t climb the tree!” Mel scolded the cat for the 100th time that day. “It’s not for you, kitty.”
She was still in the living room, holding the cat and giving her very soft scolding when the door opened.
“Hi, sweetheart.” Frank smiled at her while holding a figure in his arms, tightly wrapped up in a big scarf. “Say hello to mommy, Tanner.” he said softly, as he was trying to get him out of that big scarf. He waved with his little hands. and as he was freed from his clothes, he ran up to Mel, hugging her legs.
“Hi baby!” she put down Lucy and lifted up Tanner. “Did you have fun at Grammy’s?” he just nodded, sticking his tongue out. Mel kissed his head. “You taught him, that for sure.” pointing at his tongue.
”I would pretend I’m offended, but you are right. He is my clone.” he looked at the kid with the same blue eyes and dark hair. Mel shook her head smiling.
“Do you boys want some cinnamon rolls?” she asked. And their answer came at the same time.
“Heck yes!” Frank exclaimed.
“Hec yef!” Tanner’s baby voice echoed.
”Gosh, you guys are really twins.” she chuckled, and walked into the kitchen, setting Tanner down on the counter. She started to get out some plates, when Frank hugged her from behind.
“Maybe the next one will be your twin.” he kissed her on the cheek.
”I really hope so.” she smiled, turning around in his arms. “I love you, but two of you is more than enough.”
“Mean.” he rolled his eyes and kissed her. Mel kissed him back, thinking of all the times she had dreamed about times like this. A family, a place where she belonged.
And now, she was the living example, that dreams do come true.