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aria-ashryver · 27 days

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Meet my OC - Viktor Ivanov

Name: Viktor Ivanov Book: Immortal Desires Orientation: Bisexual Pronouns: He/him Birthday: 12th October 1997 Sign: Libra Born: Dunedin, New Zealand Raised: Sydney, Australia, and Inverness, Scotland (with some short stints in both NZ and Croatia) Heritage: Croat

More under the cut! 🖤✨

Family

Henrik Ivanov (younger brother) Mother (name tbd) Father (name tbd)

Viktor’s closest family member is his younger brother Henrik (Henri, as a diminutive), who is eight. Henri attends boarding school, so they do not see each other much, but Henri idolises his big brother and Viktor would do anything to keep Henri from being hurt. He believes his parents treat Henri as the “do-over” child, and that they think Viktor “lacks ambition” and “refuses to take anything seriously”. There is a lot of pressure on Henri to perform well academically and to follow in his father’s footsteps, career-wise.

Viktor’s father’s career remains something of a mystery to him — he knows it is a somewhat high-ranking governmental position that requires him to travel a lot, so his father is only home for short stints every few months. When he was around 12 or 13, Viktor decided he would ask his dad outright what his job actually was the next time he showed an interest in one of Viktor’s hobbies or interests.

To this day, Viktor has no idea what his father does for a living.

His mother is a stay-at-home housewife. She is the family member Viktor sees the most often, and also the one he has the worst relationship with.

Skills / Hobbies

Sketching, painting, singing — frontman and founder of grunge/rock band Your Bisexual Awakening. Also plays bass

YBA cycles through names often, all of which have a story attached. They choose a new name via the following system: if a band member says something stupid or memorable in conversation, and two or more members simultaneously say "band name", they must change it to whatever was just said. I.e.

Cal: seriously, guys? again? Ava: my bad. Angel's refractory period is more like a Refractory Comma Angel, Viktor, and Luca, simultaneously: band name Ava: aw, fuck.

Random Trivia

Moved a lot as a child — growing up jumping between Scotland, Australia, New Zealand, and Croatia has left Viktor with the weirdest accent. Its mostly Scottish... ish? Kinda?

Enjoys anime — once described watching Tokyo Ghoul as the purest spiritual experience of his life (and then sulked inconsolably for a week when he found out the final season was copaganda)

Scared of dogs (was bitten when he was younger)

Loves having his photo taken, but also can’t look at photos of himself sometimes, because they often bring on depersonalisation episodes

Huge collection of slogan t-shirts he crops and alters himself.

Can do overtone / polyphonic singing (but not well)

When he shared a dorm room with Luca at Avalon, for a while his alarm was this Marc Rebillet song (until Luca threatened to beat him to death with a pair of socks unless he changed it)

Has a crush on Kylo Ren

Is deeply ashamed of his crush on Kylo Ren

Favourite movie is Sucker Punch (will rant AT LENGTH about how people completely miss the feminist read)

His fashion sense is varied and questionable. One day he’ll be in gritty, black techwear, the next he’s full flower-boy poet. Then he’ll be Grandma-chic, and the next day he might be wearing a three-piece suit patterned exclusively with cobs of corn.

He does really love garments that drape and flow, though, and is a bit of a sucker for glitter and fun textures. No matter how loud, he somehow manages to always wear the outfits, and not have them wear him.

Viktor’s goals are informed by an odd mix of wanting a sense of agency and independence, while also just wanting to be taken care of and not have to think

Pathetic Babygirl of All Time

Personal Life

cw!! for talk around mental illness, suicide, and substance abuse

Viktor’s childhood was extremely difficult in that his mother simply does not believe that mental illnesses and neurologic disorders are legitimate conditions, and denies that Viktor’s many conditions are real. She believes he is making everything up for attention. Viktor has had this rhetoric drilled into him since childhood — there is nothing wrong with him, he’s just weak, lazy, a failure, a troubled child.

As such, he has never been diagnosed with anything on record.

He is quite mistrustful of authority figures as a result of his upbringing.

The first real, healthy parental influence in his life was Terri O’Rinn. She was the one to refer Viktor to a specialist doctor — she called in a favour from a friend/colleague, who was able to confirm Viktor’s diagnosis of mild to moderate Tourette Syndrome. This diagnosis remains strictly off-record. He primarily has motor tics, but he does have some verbal ones too — many of his tics are indistinguishable from the way he carries himself and his usual, somewhat eccentric mannerisms of speaking and moving.

Viktor also suffers from depression and generalised anxiety disorder. Luca has “diagnosed” him with “ADHD by peer review.” Viktor also deals with frequent bouts of passive suicidal ideation. Luca has had to talk him down on two separate occasions when he has threatened attempts. He has attempted once, on his own, and has never told anyone about it. Viktor loves Luca like a brother, as they do him, and their bond is fundamentally unshakeable.

Viktor fell into performing initially as a means to cope with his Tourettes — music helps to help him feel in control of his symptoms, so he can often be found singing, humming, or whistling to himself as he goes about his business. Alcohol and weed incidentally dial back his premonitory urges as well, allowing him to more easily suppress his tics, so there have been patterns of substance abuse throughout Viktor’s life when he’s been in a bad place mentally.

In classes at school, he was something of the class clown — Viktor quickly realised he liked dictating the kind of attention that was on him (and that he actually really loves attention when its the kind he has sought out himself). So rather than people staring at him because of his tics, he’d rather enrapture them on purpose with beautiful and hypnotic performances. Leaning into his role as the band’s vocalist and frontman did wonders for his self-confidence and overall quality of life.

Also — he’s just really, really, good at singing 🖤🖤🖤

You can find out more about Viktor via my masterlist, or read about him in my longfic, snow in crimson, starlight in gold on AO3! 🖤(direct link, fic is rated Explicit)

tagging: @choicesficwriterscreations

#i release the boy into the wild hes your problem now #SICSIG #viktor ivanov #meet my oc #cfwc meet my mc #immortal desires #playchoices fanfic #choices fic writers creations #🏳‍🌈🏳‍🌈🏳‍🌈

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jerzwriter · 5 months

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I've Got You

I realized I had no art for Casey and Jess, and when I decided to rectify that, I knew exactly who I wanted to go to. @rosefuckinggenius did not disappoint! Look at my two sweet girls! I love them so much! Thank you for bringing my babies to life, Rose! You're the best!

I wrote a little drabble below to accompany it. I hope you enjoy it! 💕

Book: Open Heart (Pre-Series/Med School) Pairing: Casey MacTavish (F!MC) x Jessica Phillips (F!OC) Words: 696 Rating: Teen Summary: Casey & Jess are taking a little break until there is a turn of events - then it's Jess to the rescue. A/N: Participating in @choicesnovchallenge - Go For A Ride Day - not in the traditional sense, but hey, it works! lol and @choicesflashfics "Don't put all the blame on me." My Casey & Jess series takes place during Casey's med school years in Philadelphia, so this is prior to her arrival at Edenbrook.

For more on Casey & Jess, see here.

My Full Masterlist

Based on the crowds, it seemed all of Philadelphia was out to enjoy the beautiful late spring day, and Casey and Jessica were no exception. They put their books aside for a while to take a relaxing walk along the Race Street Pier. It was just what the doctors-to-be ordered... until things took a turn. Literally.

“Ouch!” Casey winced, toppling to the ground with her hands clutching her ankle.

Jess was immediately at her side. “Case? Babe, you OK?”

“Ow, no,” she groaned. “I think I twisted by ankle."

"Oh, hon! You have to be more careful."

"Hey! Don’t put all the blame on me. I was distracted by the gorgeous woman next to me. You're a hazard, Jess."

Jess was happy to see Casey maintain a sense of humor, but she was already at her feet, fully in physician mode.

“I didn’t hear a pop when you fell, and the ankle presentation’s normal... so I don't think it was a break.”

“Trust me, if it was a break I wouldn't be cracking jokes. It's just a twisted ankle," Casey said attempting to stand. "I'll just... OW!"

"You'll just sit and let me continue examining it!" Jess demanded. "You're obviously in pain... and I can feel some instability when I move it... it's probably a sprain."

“Let’s see if I can stand on it.”

“All right,” Jess agreed, quickly rising to support Casey. “Slowly..."

Casey did her best to be brave, she didn't want to be bested by a stupid misstep. She managed to stifle a yelp as a jolt of pain shot from the tender spot, but her eyes screwed shut, and that was all Jess needed to see.

“That’s it!” the beautiful redhead insisted. “You are not walking home.”

“Jess, don’t be ridiculous. We’re only about three blocks away.”

“Yup! Three blocks too many for you to walk in this condition."

"It doesn’t hurt that bad," Casey fibbbed. "I can wobble.”

“Wobble my ass!” Jess snapped, turning her back to Casey. “Let’s go. Hop on.”

“Wait... what?”

“Hop on! I'm carrying you back to the apartment.”

“You’re giving me.... a piggyback ride? Really?”

Jess turned around with a roll of her eyes. “This isn’t for fun... and don't get excited... it’s nothing kinky, either. We just need to get you home so I can look at that ankle better. At a minimum, you'll need some ice and elevation."

“Jess, it’s not necessary... I can...”

But Jess was done. “GET ON!”

Casey knew when it was time to hush up, and now was that time. She hopped onto her girlfriend's back at once, but she wasn't done complaining.

“For the love of... Jess... I love you, but sometimes you’re just...”

“Just what?”

Hearing the concern in Jess’s voice, Casey felt her defenses thawing. “You’re just... too good to me. That's what you are. I’m sorry.”

“It’s OK,” Jess said with the very smile that first caught Casey's eye. “Patients in pain can be quite crabby... I learned that five minutes into med school.”

Jess lifted Casey's thighs, and Casey wrapped her arms around Jess's neck. But when it didn’t go as smoothly as they had hoped, the two women couldn’t help but laugh.

“Babe, look. I'm laughing. Are you sure I can't try to...."

“CASEY!" Jess snapped.

“But I weigh as much as you do! I don't want to hurt you."

Jess continued to walk with a shrug of her shoulders. “Why do you think I work out so much?”

Casey's brow crinkled. "I don't know? You do work out a ridiculous amount of time. Why do you?"

"Isn't it obvious? I have a beautiful, brilliant... but clumsy girlfriend... I have to be prepared for moments like this.”

“Gee, thanks,” Casey laughed, nuzzling her face into Jess’s hair, the sandalwood scent of Jess's shampoo filling her senses. “Jess?” She whispered, squeezing her just a bit tighter.

“Yes?”

“I’m so lucky to have you.”

“You really are,” Jess grinned. “But then again, I’m lucky to have you.”

“You are,” Casey giggled. “But try to play it safe, OK? Because if this should happen to you... I couldn't do this... I'd have to spring for an Uber."

~~~~~

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

#choices fanfic #open heart #open heart f!mc #open heart f!mc x f!oc #casey mactavish #casey x jess #open heart fanfic #open heart choices #choices open heart #cfwc lgbtqia #playchoices fanfic #choices fanart #playchoices fanart #rosefuckinggenius

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lilyoffandoms · 6 months

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Troy x Saeed by artbyainna (IG)

Thank you soooooo much @choicesficwriterscreations for hosting a Choices fandom bisexual awareness event and thank you sooooo much more for this beautiful art you gifted me!! When @jerzwriter told me I won I knew I had to finally get art of these two. I’ve written them a few times and had never bothered with any art and I needed to remedy that asap.

I’ve tried hanging on to this art and I’ve made it a whole week now so I think it’s time to share haha

#choices wake the dead #choices wtd #playchoices #troy hassan #troy hassan x mc #troy x saeed #for me #my commission #but not really #really cfwc’s but i want it to show up in my tags #don’t tag as your oc/mc #do not claim as your own #do not repost #my oc: saeed mendis

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peonierose · 20 days

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Las hijas de Luna

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Bryce Lahela (M!MC) x Luna Auclair (F!OC)

Rating: General. It’s a birth story. But there won’t be any graphic scenes.

Words: 5,000+

Summary: It’s time for Luna and Bryce to welcome their twins into the world. Will there be any complications? Or will the birth go without a hitch?

A/N: I just wanted to say thank you to the whole choices fandom. I couldn’t have come this far with my writing, my stories and my beloved characters, if I didn’t have such amazing and encouraging friends to cheer me on and support me. So thank you to anyone who’s given my writing, my stories and my characters a chance 💚

2 A/N: I’m by no means an expert with birth stories so please excuse any errors. I used my basic knowledge, friends knowledge and the internet to find out more about births but remember this is fiction, I was bit more freely with the details, but nothing too vivid or such pinky promise.

Side note: If you're curious how Luna and Bryce found out that they're expecting you can find out in my story "Cake by the Ocean"

I also included a playlist if you want to you can give it a listen here

2 Side note: I participated in the March Challenge @choicesmonthlychallenge and used the prompt plumeria flower. The plumeria flower symbolizes positivity & new beginnings 🥰 (I think it wasn't among the flowers that were mentioned, but since the story takes place in Hawaii I thought I'd use this beautiful flower).

Honolulu, Hawaii

March 30th

Luna

Bryce is about to head out on a camping trip with Keiki. They’re going to Waianae Mountain Range.

It usually took over an hour to get there. But the view was breathtaking and made up for the time it took you to get there.

I've been there with my family before. It’s marvelous. The fresh mountain air. The chirping birds, the rush of a nearby waterfall. And the light is perfect for painting. It’s truly a magnificent experience.

My cousin Skyler, Sky for short, didn’t like it so much, he got scared by spiders. Other than that it was pretty fun.

So when Keiki asked Bryce if he’d like to go? Bryce was excited to spend more time with his sister.

Because of his demanding job as a surgeon, he doesn’t get to spend as much time with his family as he would like to. Working odd hours, and being on call does that to your private life.

They’re going to spend the whole day together, going hiking, fishing and just sitting by the campfire. It was a beautiful idea, sans the camping. I’d rather go glamping, thank you very much. One time camping was enough. I grinned at the fond memory. I went camping with my family once and had to share a tent with Evie and Soraya.

It was great. It was like a sleepover. But I could’ve sworn I’ve seen a snake or two crawl outside and that kinda ruined the experience and sleeping on the cold hard floor wasn’t a picnic either.

I stood outside our house and watched as Bryce packed up the Jeep with their bags, tents, and some food my mom made for them earlier. I would’ve gone with them but I was told this could be straining for me since I’m due to give birth soon. With twins, you never know.

I’ve been having small contractions since this morning but I didn’t want to ruin Bryce’s trip with Keiki.

Gnawing on my lip I’m trying to decide if I should tell him, because if I do then he’ll cancel his trip and I don’t want to do that.

So I’ve been a bit worried all day.

Bryce looked up at me as if he felt my stare.

”Don‘t look so worried Lunes. We can go another weekend if you’re so worried. It’s close to your due date, Lu. I mean I know that twins usually arrive earlier than the expected due date.“

He looked slightly concerned and was torn if he should cancel the trip. His brown eyes were full of worry. The usual spark in his eyes was dimmed.

I walked towards him and tried to lighten the mood.

”I’m fine. See? Totally peachy!“ I smiled and did a little pirouette. Or tried to at least. It looked more awkward than what a pirouette should look like.

Bryce wasn’t convinced by my little performance.

We both heard some barking. That must be Knox, Adam‘s dog. Adam had a meeting with a potential client in Maui. He makes and builds his own furniture, and has his own company right here in Honolulu.

So when he asked us if we could look after Knox? We were more than happy to.

So both Maxi and Knox joined us in the house and are currently in our garden enjoying the sun and playing a round of catch.

I smiled and Bryce relaxed a little too. I hugged him, he pulled me closer, and I breathed in the fresh cotton scent and some cherry from his shower gel.

I looked up at him.

”If I should go into labour I’ve packed my bag just in case. Maxi and my mom are inside, my cousins and Meilani will be here shortly and I have your and Keiki's number on speed dial. It’s all good. Go have fun. We‘ll still be here when you come back.“

Bryce sighed and went to close the trunk of the Jeep. He walked over to me again.

”I hate leaving you here. Maybe I should just stay here. Yeah, that’s a good idea. Keiki will understand.“

I laughed as he tried to walk back into our house and I pushed him towards the car.

”Go and have fun B. I mean it. But don’t have too much fun without me.“

He took one last look at me and gave me a lingering kiss. One that made my toes curl. I smiled against his lips.

When he broke off the, he kissed me on the top of my head and got into the car.

I grinned at him and he smiled back, though the worry isn’t completely gone, it’s dimmed down a little. So I tried a reassuring smile.

”It’s going to be fine babe.“

”Alright Lunes. I’m sure things will work out.“

He nodded as if more to himself and grinned.

”Keiks let’s go. You can text your boyfriend in the car.“ He yell d towards the house and Keiki ran out the door with a blue metallic bag over her shoulder.

”Fyi he’s not my boyfriend. I was calling a guy who’s name I’m not telling you, so that you can win the betting pool.“

”Jesus.“ Bryce muttered, making me and Keiki laugh out loud.

She hugged me, smelling like peaches.

”Bye Looney.“

I grinned at them.

”Have fun guys. Love you.“

Bryce honked once and they were off, the headlights getting smaller.

My mom, Maxi, and Knox Adam’s dog were keeping me company. My mom said she’d spend the day with me until Bryce got back.

I walked inside our house once Bryce and Keiki were on their way.

As I closed the front door, a sudden pain made me clutch my stomach. I let out a slow breath. Okay, this was definitely a stronger contraction.

Maxi walked towards me, Knox in tow. She grinned but then took one look at me and rushed towards me.

”What’s wrong sugarplum?“

She guided me gently to the couch.

”I don’t know. It felt like a contraction. But that’s not possible. I'm not due yet.“

Once I sat down the pain was almost gone. I sighed in relief. Maybe it was because I overexerted myself today?

Meinlani said that could happen. I lifted my legs and laid down on the couch. Damn, this felt good. I sighed in relief.

Knox puts his head on my knee and I pet him behind his ears. Which makes him lick my hand. He’s a sweet dog.

My mom came over. She took one glance at me and a worried look entered her blue-green eyes.

”You okay baby?“

I nodded. Eyes closed. And I am. The pain was gone. At least for now. Maybe it was just a false alarm, and the small contractions I’ve been having since this morning were just preparation? I hoped that’s true.

”Why don’t I make you some chamomile tea? Hmm?“ She put a strand of my dark blonde hair behind my ear. I sighed in bliss.

”Two sugars?“

She kissed me on my forehead.

”You got it, baby.“

The next couple of hours were pretty uneventful. We chatted and watched Bridgerton. But I just couldn’t concentrate. I love that show. But I had a bad feeling.

Earlier I tried to reach Bryce to check in if they got there okay, but the call didn’t go through. Maybe they had bad cell signal? Of all days for the cell service not to work? Seriously screw you cell towers.

I was almost fast asleep, Knox by my side when the doorbell rang. I opened my sleepy eyes as Maxi got up and pinpointed me with a look.

”Don’t you dare get up. I’ve got it.“

I laughed and stayed on the couch.

”Who missed us?“

I turned my head and saw my cousins Evie and Soraya walk in. Followed by our friend and my OB/gyn Meilani, and Soraya‘s wife.

They all leaned down and hugged me.

”Good to see you’re following my orders to rest.“

”I’m a good student.“ I grinned.

Maxi snorted.

”That’s not true. You were up and about almost all day.“

”Luna!“

”Ohh. Someone’s getting a lecture.“ Evie said from across the room.

My mom let out a laugh.

Meilani was holding back a smile I can tell.

”Well you’re resting now, which I’m counting as a win.“ Meilani said and sat in the other armchair next to Meilani. Soon we were all laughing.

My mom's phone rang on the counter.

”Hey love.“

I could tell from the tone of her voice that it was my dad. She only talked like this when my dad was near.

”No, I haven’t heard anything about thunderstorm warnings. I’m with loon-moon, you know since Bryce went on that trip with Keiki.“

She listened some more and she was darting concerned looks at the phone.

”Yeah I agree. We’ll stay inside, don't worry. Love you too.“

My ears perked up at the words ”thunderstorm warnings“ and I sat up with Meilani's help.

My mom disconnected the call and we all looked at her.

I stared at my mom expectantly.

”Brian called and told me there were severe thunderstorm warnings issued. They’re urging everyone who doesn’t need to be outside to stay at home. I hope Bryce and Keiki will be okay. Looney, have you tried reaching him?“

I nodded.

”My calls and texts didn’t go through. What if he gets hurt? And they can’t reach anyone? Oh god.“

I tried not to cry but it was no use. I was full-on crying because I was worried about Bryce. Maxi reached me and hugged me.

”Hey come on don’t worry. Bryce is a tough guy, and he’s pretty resourceful. But don’t tell him I told you that. He'll tease me until eternity. So try to think positive. He’ll be okay.“

She kissed my temple and I tried to relax, but a shrivel of worry stayed where it was.

I nodded, got up and slowly walked to the bathroom. After drinking that chamomile tea I had to pee all the damn time.

It was good thinking that Bryce and I had installed another bathroom downstairs. To be honest I couldn’t walk upstairs right now just to use the bathroom.

As I opened the door I felt a wetness dribble down my feet. I stood frozen to the ground. Not moving an inch.

I was scared that if I moved I’d make it worse. I know that‘s technically not possible. But I’m scared. And a slight panic settled in the depths of my stomach.

Oh no. Not now. Please, not now. It’s too early.

I tried using the breathing techniques I used when I have an anxiety attack. Maybe that would calm me down a little.

Is the water supposed to break? I thought that was just a thing from movies and TV shows. But apparently, it’s a thing.

I must’ve made a tiny sound because I heard some tiny little footsteps clacking on the wooden floorboards.

Knox must’ve heard me. He stood there and watched me. When I didn’t say anything, he barked and I put my hand through his soft golden fur.

”It’s okay. No need to worry right? Women have given birth before, right?“ Even I could hear the panic in my voice.

”Lunes? Do you need help to sit down on the toilet?“ I heard the others snicker.

But I was not in the mood for jokes.

”My water just broke.“

They stopped laughing and I could hear them coming closer.

Meilani was the first one followed by my mom, Maxi, Soraya, and Evie.

Meilani shot me a reassuring smile.

”Okay no need to worry. Why don’t you go and wash up? We’ll grab your packed bag and drive you to the hospital?“

I nodded and Maxi was by my side and coached me through my breathing.

”Deep breaths sugarplum. Come on. In and out.“

She instructed me and I repeated it a couple of times before I was able to breathe normally again.

”I’ll go wash up.“ I said.

”I’ll bring you a change of clothes.“ Maxie said and went upstairs.

Evie and Soraya stood there unsure what to do, so I turned to them.

”Can you guys try Bryce’s phone again? I’d feel better knowing that he and Keiki are okay.“

Evie nodded and Soraya went outside to see if Meilani needed any help.

”I couldn’t reach him before. But I’ll keep calling him.“ Evie said.

I went inside the bathroom to wash up. Hoping we’ll make it to the hospital in time. Hopefully, the streets will be cleared despite all the storm warnings.

When I went outside I saw Soraya rushing in. A concerned look on her face.

”We’ll have a problem getting to the hospital. As I was turning on the engine, I noticed that the car was stuck. It hasn’t stopped raining, so the trails are too muddy from the rain.“

I sighed and when a contraction rolled around I tried breathing through it. But I couldn’t help the whimper that escaped.

”I was afraid of that. The calls to the hospital didn’t go through either. I tried calling my head nurse Valerie. But I can’t reach anyone.“

She looked around trying to reassess the situation.

”Okay we’ve got this no problem.“

”What do you need?“ My mom sprinted into action.

Meilani looked around.

”We need to make a make-shift birthing room. The contractions are pretty early on, so it could take hours before Luna is ready to push. She has to be fully dilated. Again that could take hours, and maybe the streets will be cleared up by then. We also don’t have any medical supplies or an epidural that I could give to Luna. I’m not going to risk an infection to either her or the twins.“

My mom nodded.

”Okay Meilani and Maxine you stay with Luna and make her feel comfortable. She doesn’t need any added stress to her right now. Soraya, Evie, and I will try to get the car rolling again. So that we can make it to the hospital.“

Everyone nodded while I was walking back and forth, not able to sit still. When I’m anxious I tend to walk a dent into the carpet.

When everyone was done making a makeshift birthing room, Meilani pointed for me to lie down.

”Alright. Let’s make you comfortable.“

Meilani sighed and looked up at me. A serious look on her face.

”How long?“ I asked, my eyes full of tears because Bryce wasn’t here and I couldn't reach him.

”We’ve got time. So try and relax. I know it sounds a lot, but you’ve got this okay?“

”Sure I’ll just lie down and feel all peachy. That’s a-okay.“

Meilani smiled at me, completely ignoring my sarcasm.

”But just so you know the contractions are only going to get more painful. So I’m going to time the distance to know for sure when it’s time to push okay? That way we’ll be able to at least have some time to prepare alright?“

I sucked in a breath and nodded.

”The contractions are going to be worse than what I’m feeling now? Yeah sure no problem.“

”You got this babe.“ Meilani smiled and her smile put me a bit at ease.

Bryce

Nothing but the blue sky above us as we drove towards Waianae Mountain Range. Listening to Elvis Presley songs. The top is rolled up, and we’re singing out loud.

Keiki laughed at my singing technique. Making me sing even louder.

It took us a little longer than an hour, but hey that’s fine. We made it and that’s the most important thing.

I turned off the engine of our Jeep when we arrived at the campsite. We got out of the car and put our bags, the tents, and the food we packed out of the car trunk.

I grinned at Keiki. Then I heard her curse as she tried to get the tent up and I grinned.

”Need any help there Keiks?“ I smiled.

”Nope. I’ve got it.“ She replied.

”Hopefully this time you can get your tent up, not like last time. When it all fell apart.“

Keiki turned around and pointed an accusing finger at me.

”That‘s so not true. You helped me build it. So technically it’s your fault it fell apart.“

I laughed.

While putting up the tent, I couldn’t shake off this bad feeling I’ve had ever since we started the trip. I tried reaching Lunes but there’s bad cell service out here. I barely have any bars on my cell phone. It seems as if there won’t be any cell service for some time.

When we heard thunder roaring in the distance we both stopped setting up our tents.

My gut feeling was confirmed when I saw dark grey clouds rolling in, where just a while ago the sky was brilliantly blue before.

”Damn it.“ I cursed again.

I went to my car and turned on the radio to see if there were any severe thunderstorm alerts issued for Honolulu. I found a radio station and only caught the last sentence.

”…urge people to stay inside. There are severe thunderstorm warnings for Honolulu, Kailua, Waipahu…“

I turned the radio off and walked towards Keiki who looked up from building her tent.

”You okay?“ She asked with apprehension written across her face.

”There were several thunderstorms issued and I have a bad feeling. I also can’t reach Luna.“

I pushed my hand through my hair.

”I’m sure she’s fine.“ Keiki tried to reassure me, but the worry stayed with me.

Keiki reached into her bag and gave me a signal booster for my phone.

”Luna's dad gave me a signal booster for my phone when he heard we were going camping. I’ve brought it with me just in case.“

”You’re a lifesaver Keiks.“

She smiled at me.

I tried reaching Luna and when I did it was not her voice I heard. It was Evie‘s. Luna’s cousin.

”Thank god Bryce. We’ve been trying to reach you for hours.“

I could hear a voice in the background.

”Evie? What’s wrong? Is Luna okay?“

Evie was back on the line.

”Her water broke. We’re on our way to the hospital.“

Her voice stopped me in my tracks, my heart started beating faster and I could feel the blood rush through my veins.

”What? When? Is she okay?“

Keiki looked towards me and when she saw my panicked expression she walked towards me and put her hand on my shoulder. I gripped her hand tightly.

”Wait, I'll give her the phone.“

I heard some rustling and then Luna was on the line.

”B?“

When I heard her voice I breathed out a breath of relief. I didn’t realize how tense I was. My shoulders dropped, since Luna’s voice instantly relaxed me.

”Are you okay?“ I asked because I wanted to hear if she was in any pain.

”I…yeah. I’m fine. But B? I can’t do this without you. Please tell me you’ll be here?“

I sighed. And activated my doctor mode. I tried to act as if this was one of my patients. But it only worked for a short amount of time.

”I’ll make it. Don’t worry, and don’t start without me. But seriously you’re in good hands. Meilani is an exceptional doctor…“

I didn’t get to finish when I heard her cry out.

”Lunes?“ I said and then I heard Meilanis' voice.

”She’s fine for now. We’re on our way to the hospital. So you better get your ass there Lahela.“

”How far along is she until she has to push?“

”We’ve got a little bit of time, but soon. We wanted to go there earlier but with the thunderstorms, it was raining and the car was stuck. The others are trying to get the car out so we can get to the hospital.“

I nodded as if she could see me.

”Alright I’ll be there.“

I heard more noises.

”I have to go Bryce. Luna needs me. Please be there. She can’t do this without you.“

”I promise I’ll make it.“

That’s when we ended the call. And I pinched my nose. And then I had to laugh because it reminded me so much of something Ethan would do.

”What’s wrong?“ Keiki asked me. And when I didn't answer her immediately she yelled my name.

”Bryce!“

Her voice shook me out of my daze.

”Luna’s water broke.“

”Wait, didn't you say she wasn’t due yet?”

She looked at the dark sky above us and her eyes turned worried.

I rubbed my neck nervously.

”Yeah. But sometimes you can go into labor earlier. Especially with twins.“

”Then we should go. I don’t think this camping trip will take place today. The weather is too bad. There could be landslides, especially in the mountains. And we don’t want to be here when that happens.“

I nodded and we both got our stuff packed up.

”You’re right Keiks. We should head back. Before the roads get too bad.“

I was loading everything into the car when I heard Keiki's voice.

”I think it might be too late for that big brother.“

I stuck my head out of the car to see where Keiki was pointing.

She pointed at the trail that was completely covered in mud. Even with our Jeep, we’ll have a hard time getting the car going.

Dammit. Of all days for a thunderstorm to arrive it had to be today of all days. I don’t know if that’s a good or bad omen. Though I truly hoped that it was a good omen and that the Hawaiian gods would be merciful with the weather today. Saying a silent prayer I looked up and hoped I would be there to witness the birth of my children.

I breathed out and turned to my little sister.

”Alright. Let’s not panic. Let’s try if we can get the car onto the road.“

Keiki nodded, but I could tell she was not convinced that we’d get the car on the road.

I turned on the engine and after a couple of seconds we got on the road and I swerved to avoid any muddy parts on the street.

We made it halfway home when we hit a pothole and got stuck.

It rattled the car for a second, and I tried to back out of the pothole, but no dice. No matter how hard I tried we were stuck.

”What now? Should we try to move the car?“ Keiki asked.

I shook my head and I hit my hands on the steering wheel. Frustrated.

”Fuck. I hate that we got stuck. Today of all days.“

Keiki slapped me on my arm.

”Well we won’t solve it by sitting inside the car. Let’s see how bad we’re stuck.“

I felt myself nodding and we got out to see how big the pothole was.

”Yeah okay we’re screwed.“ Keiki whistled.

I shot her an annoyed look.

”What? I’m just saying.“ She grinned and I laughed half-heartedly, as I was trying to calculate how long it would take us if we made a run for it.

”How long would it take us if we made a run for it?“ I voiced my thoughts aloud.

I looked at my sister who got her phone to see how far it would take us.

”It’s 10 miles from here.“

”We could make it in time.“

Keiki chewed on her fingernails. Painted in a deep pink shade.

”You’re faster than me. I could stay here in the car and you could go to the hospital. I’d only slow you down. I’m not exactly a sports person.“

I was torn if I should just go, leave my sister behind, and miss the birth of my twins or if we should make a run for it.

Keiki sighed.

”We’re wasting time debating this. Just go. Give me the booster for my phone and we can stay in touch. I’ll be fine I promise.“

I sighed and looked at her.

”Are you sure Kei-Kei?“

She nudged me forward.

”Go! I don’t want my big brother to miss the birth of my nieces. I’d never hear the end of it. Also if you faint please take pics, I want to remember this day.“ She said grinning.

”Very funny Keiks. I’ll stay in touch.“

”I’m going to be a dad.“ I shouted and she grinned at me, shaking her head.

I gave her the signal booster for her phone, kissed her on her forehead, and made a run for it.

As I was running I kept praying that I made it on time for the birth of our twins.

Which spurred me to run faster.

Kuakini Medical Center, Honolulu Hawaii

Luna

As another strong contraction hit me I cried out.

Meilani kept shooting me dirty looks.

”Luna. As your doctor, I’m telling you we can’t wait any longer.“

”Please, Mei. I can’t do this without him. Please. Just 5 more minutes, please?“

Meilani closed her eyes.

When she opened them again, she crossed her arms over her chest and sighed, seeing that I wouldn’t budge on this.

”Alright, fine. We’ll wait 5 more minutes. After that, it’s pushing time.“

I nodded.

Bryce

I was wheezing. Almost wept from joy. My calves are killing me, but I’m almost there. Just a couple more steps and I‘m at the hospital. I could see the building already coming closer.

I made it to the hospital, and rushed through the hospital doors all muddy and sweaty.

As I was on my way to the elevator a voice stopped me.

”Where do you think you’re going, young man? This is a hospital.“

When I turned around Brenda gave me the evil eye.

”Lahela you know the rules.“

”Yes I know. Please! Luna is upstairs, she's about to give birth. I can’t miss that. Please.“

”At least get a little cleaned up!“

I groaned. Seriously?

”Could you be a Karen somewhere else?“ I muttered under my breath.

”What was that?“ She cleared her throat.

”Nothing. I’ll get cleaned up, upstairs. Thanks, Brenda.“

”Yeah. Yeah.“

I sighed in relief as I punched the elevator button and the elevator rode up.

All I cared about was that I made it to the hospital to be there for Lunes when our twins were born.

The elevator dinged and I almost stumbled out of it, because I couldn’t wait to get out into the hall.

The first person I saw was Grace, Luna’s mom walking back and forth. Soraya and Evie were next to her sitting on the hard plastic chairs.

When Grace saw me coming in she started to cry and hugged me. I hugged her back. Though I’m anxious to see Luna.

”Thank god you made it Bryce.“ She put her hands around my face and I smiled at her.

I turned to look at Grace when I didn't see Luna anywhere.

She pointed to a room to the right and that’s when I heard painful screams coming from inside.

Luna must’ve already started pushing. I winced. Hating I couldn’t be there for her from the start. But I tried to not dwell on that. I’m here now and that’s what counts.

Grace smiled at me.

”Luna has already started pushing. She waited until the last minute. But she had to start.“

I nodded and got going.

”She’s inside with Meilani and her head nurse Valerie.“

I nodded and opened the door. Meilani didn’t look up as she guided Luna through the birth.

I quickly scrubbed in as fast as I could and joined Luna and Meilani.

”Okay that’s good Lu. That’s good. Just keep pushing.“ Meilani said in a soothing voice when I got to Luna’s side who shot me an angry look.

”Where the fuck were you B?“

I winced and then I smiled at her for using a curse word.

”Let’s leave story time for after you’ve given birth. What’s important is that I’m here.“

”I’m going to kick your ass for this later.“

I grinned and kissed her forehead.

”I wouldn’t have it any other way.“

Meilani grinned and her head nurse Valerie stood next to Meilani, keeping track of the heart monitor.

Meilani‘s voice got me out of my trance.

”Dad? Wanna do the honors?“

I squeezed Luna‘s hand and stood in the front to catch the first baby.

As I did, a loud cry filled the room and I suddenly held one of my girls in my arms.

”I forget how tiny they are when they’re born.“ Valerie smiled next to me and I nodded.

I looked at my little girl, and a whole new love entered my heart. I wasn’t prepared for this feeling.

It’s as if my heart was going to burst from all this love. Making space for new people entering my life. I still couldn’t believe Luna and I created these beautiful babies.

I took my daughter's little hand in mine and kissed it.

”Hi there, beautiful. Look at you being all pretty huh?“

”A new member in your Ohana.“ Valerie kept sniffing.

I nodded and kept rocking the baby and when she opened her eyes she looked at me and stopped crying.

”It’s your awesome dad. So cool right? Look at your mom. Super strong and going at it.“

Valerie laughed softly at my comment and I grinned.

I turned to Luna and waved with my daughter's little hand at Luna.

I kissed our baby's tiny forehead and Valerie took her from me. Taking care of the washing and weighing.

Then I was at Luna’s side again and together we got to see our second baby. Another loud cry just like her twin sisters filled the room, as she entered the world.

My heart couldn’t be fuller at this second, as I looked down at Luna and saw her tired but happy face look up at me. I kissed her and she sighed.

Meilani‘s voice got us out of our reverie. We must’ve looked as if we smoked too much weed. Goofy expressions on our faces as we looked at Meilani.

”Congratulations you two. I’m so happy that I could be a part of it.“

”I already know my vagina won’t be the same after this.“

Meilani laughed out loud and I grinned too. If Lunes can make jokes then she’s okay.

Valerie walked towards us and handed me Kehlani and Alaia. We heard the door open and when we looked up all we saw were the faces of Grace, Evie, and Soraya.

They all opened the door wider and entered the room.

”Look Keilani Mae and Alaia Rose are finally here with us, Lunes. They’re just as beautiful as their mom and dad.“

Luna rolled her eyes.

”I knew you’d bring yourself into the conversation.“

”What can I say? I’m good-looking. Says so on the onesie.“

Luna just shook her head and grinned, probably too tired for a comeback.

”You’ve done it. You gave birth to two beautiful girls.“ Meilani wiped away some tears. And we all just smiled, letting this little miracle, er…miracles, seep in.

I couldn’t stop smiling.

Soraya and Evie walked towards us and held the little twins. Cuddling them and peppering them with kisses.

”Sky is going to be so jealous that he didn’t hold the twins first. Let’s call him.“ Evie said and Soraya nodded.

They handed them back and I held them close as I put them on Luna’s chest.

Luna started to sob when she saw the twins for the first time. She touched Kehlani's little cheek with her forefinger.

”They’re so tiny and smell so beautiful. Like a new book. For a new chapter of our lives.“

She looked up at me and I nodded, too full of emotions to form a proper sentence so I just nodded and we enjoyed the time with our twins.

Luna

Holding your babies? It was a whole new level of love.

It’s something I didn’t know I wanted so much, as I held them close and took in their newborn smell. My love, my life.

I‘d lay down my life for my twins. I’d do anything to keep them safe.

As I looked down at them. I couldn’t believe they were here. It seemed as if I’ve been waiting for years to see their tiny little faces. I swore I’ll be a good mom.

A new exciting and thrilling feeling filled my body.

Giving me a new superpower. I’ve never felt this strong. I felt invincible. That’s probably the meds talking. But I don’t fucking care. It’s exactly where we belonged. I never thought this was the road my life would take me.

With Bryce, Kehlani Mae, and Alaia Rose. Our beautiful little family. Our Ohana. Our lives, no our love has grown ten times fold.

I smiled up at Bryce who had the same look in his cinnamon brown eyes as I did.

He leaned down to give me a gentle kiss, making this moment perfect.

Bryce

Luna fell asleep and was resting in the hospital bed. As I kept holding the twins.

There was a rocking chair in the corner and I sat down with the twins.

I've been rocking the twins to sleep for over an hour, but it felt as if we were in our tiny pink bubble of love. Nothing could touch us.

I heard a soft knock and looked up as the door opened.

It’s Grace and Brian. Luna’s parents.

Grace just started crying when she saw me again. She tugged at her husband's jacket.

”Do you see what I see? Oh my god Brian, look at those two beautiful angels! I mean I know I’ve seen them earlier, but my heart is about to explode.“

Grace shook Brian’s arm. Almost ripped it out of its sockets and I chuckled to myself. I can see where Luna got her excitement from.

”I know I’m standing right next to you so I see exactly what you see darling.“ Brian replied softly.

Grace rolled her blue-green eyes, just like Luna‘s.

”I don’t even care about your sarcasm right now.“

I smiled at them.

”Do you want to hold them?“ I offered knowing that if I don’t, Grace will just take them from me and cuddle them close to her.

Grace just nodded.

”Say hi to Kehlani Mae and Alaia Rose.“

”Hi there Lani.“ Grace held Kehlani‘s little hand and she blinked her sleepy brown eyes open.

Brian smiled fondly.

”Rosie looks so sweet.“

I sat back down next to Luna who was sleeping peacefully after not only giving birth to one but two babies.

Our rockstar.

I loved that we were able to experience the moment of our twins' birth together. Our love and genetics made this happen.

This is our Ohana. And I’m grateful that we‘ve started a new chapter in our lives.

#Las hijas de Luna #Luna Auclair (F!OC)#Bryce Lahela (M!MC)#Kehlani Mae (F!OC)#Alaia Rose (F!OC)#Grace Auclair (F!OC)#Evangeline Auclair (F!OC)#Soraya Auclair (F!OC)#Maxine Moore (F!OC)#Keiki Lahela (F!MC)#Meilani Leahi (F!OC)#Knox #Brian Auclair (M!OC)#birth story #open heart #pregnancy #cfwc

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storyofmychoices · 4 months

Text

Beneath the Mistletoe

[Mal Volari x Daenarya Blades 1 + Beyond] [Mal’s Orphanage] [Mal Volari x Daenarya Blades 2 AU]

Pairings: Maiele (@lilyoffandoms) x Daenarya; Tyril x Mal, with Mal Volari x Daenarya and Tyril Starfury x Maiele Nightbloom Book: Blades of Light and Shadow Word Count: ~600 Rating/Warnings: Teen

Synopsis: Daenarya and Maiele find themselves beneath the mistletoe.

This gorgeous art of my Daenarya and @lilyoffandoms's Maiele is by the ever lovely @callmebeem. I absolutely adore how it came out. These two deserve a special holiday moment and they look so good doing so!

Lily, I hope you enjoy this as much as I do! I adore you so, so much! Sending you all the hugs & love, today and always! Merry Christmas!

Tagging: Christmas: @choicesdecember2023, @choicesficwriterscreations, @choicesholidays, @choicesflashfics (Holiday Prompt in bold)

Daenarya stood perched on a milk crate, trying to secure a sprig of mistletoe above the archway to the living room. She glanced around, hoping someone would notice.

Maiele, catching her subtle attempt, stepped forward, offering his assistance. His touch was gentle as he held her hips, his thumbs caressing her softly.

Standing on her tiptoes with Maiele's hands guiding her, she successfully hung the floral ornamentation.

"Thank you," Daenarya offered softly, remaining close to him. She chewed her lower lip, her gaze glancing back up at the mistletoe. "Look, there’s mistletoe. We have to kiss, it’s the law."

"Is that so?" Maiele teased, a playful glint in his eyes. "A human law, I presume? I'm not familiar with it."

"Oh, well, it is a very well-known and important rule," she insisted, feigning a coy grin.

"In that case—" Maiele's hand cradled the back of her neck, drawing her in for a gentle, tender kiss beneath the mistletoe. Their lips met softly as he savored the notes of cinnamon and vanilla, reminiscent of the cookies she'd been baking earlier.

Daenarya leaned into the kiss, wrapping her arms around Maiele's neck, pressing deeper, the heat between them rising. Her footing slipped as she forgot her surroundings; the milkcrate teetered beneath her shifting weight, but Maiele was there to guide her safely back to the ground in his careful embrace.

The pair parted for a moment, catching their breath. Shared laughter slipped between them.

"We appear to still be beneath the mistletoe," Maiele noted, not ready to let her go so quickly.

Daenarya nodded, a mischievous smile spreading on her face. "So we are."

Their lips met again as they stayed in the moment, enjoying the comfort they found in one another.

❤️ 💚 ❤️ 💚 ❤️ 💚

Mal turned the corner, his mouth falling, catching sight of Daenarya and Maiele locked in an intimate embrace. The surprise etched across his face swiftly gave way to a subtle downturn of his lips. He knew they shared a connection, but still, he felt a pang of jealousy... or was it envy?

Tyril watched the rogue in amusement, arms folded, leaning against the wall. "Is this not what you wanted for them?"

"Yes, but they could be a little less... I don't know... passionate about it," Mal complained. "Look at them!"

A moan slipped from Daenarya's lips.

"Did you hear that?" His eyes widened.

"Jealousy doesn't suit you—" His tone held a teasing edge as he continued, "—although I do understand the sentiment."

Mal huffed through pouty lips, folding his arms across his chest. "It's not jealousy, it’s just... an observation."

Tyril raised a brow, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "Of course, just keen observation, I'm certain that's all." He pushed himself off the wall. In three quick strides, he stood before Mal. "However, if you find their display disconcerting, perhaps a diversion is in order." His long fingers danced lightly up Mal's arm.

"What did you have in mind?" The rogue questioned, his tone faltering. His gaze traced the elf's lips without hesitation, enjoying the sudden closeness between them. His thoughts of Daenarya and Maiele faded away. He stifled a chuckle, it was envy after all, but not for much longer, at least he hoped.

"I simply mean—" Tyril leaned closer, his voice a whisper in Mal's ear. "—sometimes, distractions can be quite beneficial."

Without another word, the elf's lips crashed against Mal's, swallowing whatever witty retort the rogue had hoped to express. He relished how easily the man melted beneath his touch. Maiele and Daenarya could have their mistletoe, Tyril didn't need it. He could get Mal exactly where he wanted with nothing more than a look, and that's exactly how he liked it.

I hope you like this, @lilyoffandoms and it's not too much. It was going to be a sweeter kiss between them but Beem showed me a sketch for this with them looking more intimate and I just couldn't say no because look at them!

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liaromancewriter · 1 year

Text

La Vie Avec Toi

Premise: When it comes to love, these couples know it’s about every moment of every day.

Book: Open Heart (post series) Pairings: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine); Sienna Trinh x M!OC (Max Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Words: 1,785

A/N: Submission for @choices-february2023, day 18 prompt "romance; @choicesflashfics wk 19, prompt 2 (in bold); @choicesholidays Valentine's Day prompt 2 (in bold); @choicesmonthlychallenge To Be prompt "sweet" ps. I imagined part 2 and 3 of this fic happening this past weekend.

Part 1: Cassie & Max

The music that filled the air was dreamy and romantic. A fire crackled in the fireplace, its flames casting shadows on the cream-colored walls. Outside, it was cold and snowy; inside, it was warm and golden.

The flaxen-haired king took his beautiful queen’s hand, pulled her into his arms, and they started to sway. He spun her around and around, the skirt of her dress flaring in a dance of its own. Her joyous laughter filled the air as he gripped her hand, twirled her away and then reeled her back into his arms.

She looped her arms around his neck, her body fitting perfectly against his, and closed the distance between their lips. It was a sweet kiss full of promise and love. And when he dipped her low, his strong hand sweeping along the curve of her waist, bracing her, it was a picture-perfect moment.

Cassie Valentine watched her parents dance around the living room, and her young heart longed for a love so strong it made every day, every moment romantic.

She should be asleep; it was late and a school night. But she’d awakened from a strange dream and heard the laughter and music. She quietly padded down the dark hallway to the landing with a banister that overlooked the living room.

Knowing she would get into trouble if anyone saw her, she lay on her stomach, resting her chin on folded hands.

Her parents had been cuddling on the couch, drinking wine from fancy glasses, talking and laughing. When the music changed, she saw her dad stand and formally bow as he took her mom’s hand.

And then they were dancing, and Cassie forgot about being discovered as she got swept up in the romance.

When she felt the air shift around her, she knew it was her twin brother Max. He hadn’t made a sound—something he was good at—and joined her on the floor, mirroring her pose.

“Why are you spying on mom and dad?” he whispered in her ear.

“Because they’re so beautiful together,” Cassie murmured, her heart full of yearning. “Someday, I’m going to have what they have.”

“Not me,” Max countered stubbornly. “Kissing gives you cooties.”

She ignored the comment and the gagging noises Max made. She loved her brother, but there was no denying that boys were stupid. They had no appreciation for romance, Cassie thought in annoyance.

As she continued to watch from her hiding place, she sighed dreamily. Someday.

Part 2: Cassie & Ethan

An arctic snap had the country in its grip, the sharp rays of the sun piercing the pristine blue sky deceptive in their promise of warmth. After Miami's heat and sandy beaches, the return to New England felt like being doused in an ice bath.

Ethan Ramsey turned away from the view outside and thought he wouldn’t want to be anywhere but here. The condo’s walls were still unfamiliar; they had moved in just a couple of months ago. But it was already home. One that he and Cassie were making together.

The music drifting from the Bluetooth speaker was cheerful, full of sunshine and rainbows. It matched the mood in the sunlit kitchen inside the beautiful condo facing Boston’s waterfront.

He cast a furtive glance at his wife, humming along with the tune, her hips shimmying to the rhythm, while she chopped vegetables for a stir fry.

Ethan smiled inwardly that once upon a time, he wouldn’t be caught dead listening to syrupy pop. He chuckled, imagining someone somewhere laughing at how the mighty had fallen.

“What’s so funny?” Cassie asked, not looking up from her task.

“Just wondering how I got here with Taylor Swift playing in the kitchen instead of Puccini,” he grinned, strolling into the kitchen.

She angled her head when he wrapped his arms around her from behind. He nuzzled her neck and lightly bit the edge of her ear lobe before soothing the sting with his tongue. Her hand on the knife handle wavered, and he knew she was as affected as he was by the small gesture.

“I hate to break this to you, babe, but that’s not Taylor Swift,” Cassie grinned up at him, her lips grazing his jaw. “But you get an A for effort.”

“Lucky me,” he said sarcastically with an exaggerated eye-roll. He kissed the side of Cassie’s head, and then he turned away to open the refrigerator. “I’ll get started on the chicken.”

He reached inside to take out the container in which the chicken was marinating. When he closed the door, he found Cassie on the other side, leaning against the counter, arms folded across her chest.

“So this is what they mean.” Her green eyes narrowed to slits. “Put a ring on it, and then it’s ‘Can you pick up milk on your way home?’ and ‘I’ll get started on the chicken.’ Where’s the romance and grand passion, Dr. Ramsey?”

“Cooking together isn’t romantic?” he asked, confused, carefully setting the container on the counter. “Because that’s not what you said in the past.”

“That’s not what I meant,” she countered, disgruntled.

For a minute, he thought she was angry. But then he saw the twinkle in her left eye, a dead giveaway for when she was teasing him. Time to give Cassie a taste of her medicine.

“It doesn’t matter if you didn’t mean it. You still said it.” Ethan kept his tone grim, pretending hurt and annoyance, and secretly enjoyed the remorse gathering on her face.

Before she could react, he tugged her into his arms, placed two fingers on her chin to tilt her face up and covered her mouth. His tongue darted inside to duel with hers, coaxing a response, while his hands cupped her ass.

“How’s that for passion?” He retorted once he let her go.

Cassie sniffed dismissively, but a playful grin hovered on her lips. “Keep going.” She tapped one finger on her lips in invitation. “I’ll let you know when you get it right.”

She batted her eyelashes at him coquettishly. “Unless you’d rather romance the chicken instead?”

Ethan framed her face between his hands and leaned his forehead against hers. “You broke through every wall I had. How can I resist you now?” He kissed the tip of her nose. “The chicken can wait. I’d rather romance my wife.”

“Right answer!”

And then he was kissing her, or she was kissing him. Either way, they agreed they needed a lot of practice to get it right.

Part 3: Max & Sienna

Storm clouds gathered on the horizon, bringing with them the threat of rain. The night sky above the Potomac was never truly dark as city lights sparkled in the distance. A gusty wind rattled the windows, the occasional howling more suited to Halloween than February.

Inside the Georgetown apartment, a fire crackled in the fireplace, its red and orange glow warming the room. The low, soft sound of plaintive Blues music floated through the air, the sultry melody enhancing the intimacy of the scene.

Sienna Trinh was stretched out on the couch, her back resting on her husband’s lap while her head leaned against the couch arm. His legs were stretched out in front of him, socked feet propped on the Ottoman.

She scanned a journal article about RSV on her tablet and enjoyed how his fingers played with the edges of her hair. She didn’t think Max even noticed the absentminded gesture, engrossed as he was in his book.

As much as Sienna loved entertaining and going out on the town with Max, she cherished the quiet evenings they spent at home. Quiet companionship, content to be near each other even if they were doing their own thing.

Their relationship had grown long distance. It took living together for Sienna to realize how important physical touch was to them. Holding hands, arms wrapped around each other, foreheads touching, and his intoxicating kisses.

When she read the same sentence for the fifth time, Sienna knew her mind wasn’t on medicine. She set the tablet down and, as she had often done in the last few weeks, lifted her left hand to stare at the beautiful engagement ring and wedding band.

She peeked at Max’s right hand and the matching band she’d placed in an intimate wedding ceremony before Christmas. Once his cast came off the next week, she was looking forward to transferring it to his left ring finger, where it belonged.

There were times when she couldn’t believe it was real. And then she’d look at the symbols of their commitment to each other and know everything was as it should be.

Almost everything, she giggled. After all, their wedding night had been postponed because of his accident.

“Care to share the joke?” Max asked, marking his place with a bookmark before putting the book down on the end table.

“I really want to kiss you,” Sienna replied, a smile hovering on her lips.

“And that’s funny because…?” He quirked one eyebrow.

“I don’t want to stop at just a kiss. And, unfortunately, we can’t go further until you get the all-clear,” she explained.

She sat up, curled her legs under her and nestled against his side. Still smiling, she tilted her head back to meet his disgruntled gaze.

“That’s not a comedy,” he pouted. “It’s a frigging tragedy of Shakespearian proportions.”

Sienna burst into laughter at the peeved look on his face.

“I’m glad my predicament amuses you,” he muttered.

“You’re unbelievably cute when you’re grumpy,” she said, peppering kisses along his jaw.

The stubble tickled her lips. She blushed as she wondered how it would feel against the sensitive skin of her inner thighs.

“Cute, huh? Sure, let’s go with that,” he smirked, making it clear he knew exactly what was going through her brain. “Clearly, my cuteness makes you blush.”

Before Sienna could retort a comeback, his hand cupped her chin, closing the distance between them; his mouth stopped a breath away from hers.

His green eyes glinted with determination, and he teased her lips, tracing the seam with his tongue until she parted for him.

But he didn’t kiss her, content to tease and tantalize. The amusement on his face told Sienna it was on purpose.

“Just kiss me already,” she almost shouted in frustration.

Before she could get the words out, he was kissing her. His lips were hard and demanding, and Sienna’s passion matched his own. She locked her hands around his neck, fingers tangling in his hair, and held on as he deepened the embrace.

Before she lost herself in the romance of the moment, Sienna's last thought was that Max was an expert kisser. And he was all hers.

------

All Fics & Edits: @a-crepusculo @annfg8 @bluebelle08 @choicesaddict5 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @doriopenheart @genevievemd @headoverheelsforramsey @lucy-268 @jamespotterthefirst @jerzwriter @lady-calypso @mainstreetreader @mysticalgalaxysstuff @openheartforeverinmyheart @peonierose @takemyopenheart @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction @vi-writes-stuff @zahrachoices

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @lovealexhunt

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @hopelessromantic1352 @mrs-ramsey

Max & Sienna only: @aallotarenunelma @storyofmychoices

#open heart #choices open heart #open heart fanfics #open heart fanfiction #ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x mc #sienna trinh #sienna trinh x oc #writers on tumblr #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #choicesfebruary2023 #choices fanfics #choices fanfiction #ethan ramsey x cassie valentine #sienna trinh x max valentine

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genevievemd · 1 year

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A New Era

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Genevieve McClure), Bryce Lahela x F!OC (Natalie Michaels) Word Count: 1306 Rating: G Category: family Trope(s):

Summary: Gen and Natalie head to the ERA's tour, then make a startling discovery.

Warnings: pregnancy

A/N: For @choicesficwriterscreations You Go Girls event. A little sisterly moment for G and Nat.

May 20, 2023

They arrive at their seats in the stadium, closer to the stage than either sister could have ever dreamed of, after a quick food break after the opening acts. They weren’t floor seats, but they were guaranteed to have the best view of their favorite artist since the age of 14 – Taylor Swift.

Thanks to Ethan giving Gen his Capital One card, and Tobias letting her spend hours in the queue while going over patient files.

Both Genevieve and Natalie had gone all out for the concert. Dressing in outfits related to their favorite albums. Lover for Genevieve and Reputation for Natalie. One with a glitter heart around one eye and the other with a black glitter snake on her cheek.

“I’m gonna cry. I can feel it.” Gen gives a weepy smile, watching the countdown clock on the stage tick away.

“Honestly, me, too.” Natalie takes a sip of her water, holding back her own set of tears.

“We’re at the fucking Era’s Tour. We’re about to see Taylor Freakin Swift in person! For the first time!” Genevieve turns to her sister, “I told mom we’d record Marjorie for her, and Bejeweled.”

“Oh that’s right, that’s her new anthem.” Natalie laughs, then quickly sobers up.

She’d been feeling nauseous all week, and at first she thought it was simply the anticipation of the show, her new leadership position at the salon. But now…

“Are you okay?” Gen asks, concern on her face. “You’re drinking water and you never do that at something like this, and you’re weirdly emotional. Which is my thing.”

“Yeah. Just been off all week.”

Gen narrows her eyes, looking over her sister. “You’re pregnant.”

“What?! Psh, no. No way.”

“You are. Have you taken a test?”

After a beat, Natalie sinks back in her chair, setting her water down on the ground. “No. I’m scared. Bryce and I got married a month ago.”

“Why didn’t you say anything earlier!? We could have done it when we were getting ready?”

“I don’t know. I just wanted to focus on the concert and not think about more impending responsibilities.”

“Okay, that’s fair.” Gen smiles, resting a comforting hand on her sister’s arm. “How about on the way home, we stop and get a test and take it when we get back to your place? You’ll have an answer before bed and then you can talk to Bryce in the morning when I go home and he gets back from his shift.”

“Yeah, okay. That’s a good idea.” Natalie lets out a sigh of relief, feeling a little more at ease.

She kicks herself a little bit, for not talking to her sister about it earlier. Genevieve has always been her biggest support, since they met in their kindergarten class 25 years ago. Through every boyfriend they had, every obstacle and problem in their lives, college for Gen and cosmetology school for Natalie; they had been there for each other through it all.

They may not be sisters by blood, but they were sisters in their hearts.

“I’m gonna send Ethan a video of you crying as Taylor comes on stage.” Natalie snickers.

“If you think my husband doesn’t already know that I’m about to cry for 3 and a half hours, you’d be wrong. He knows what he got himself into.”

Suddenly, the lighting changes and the clock stops ticking. The opening notes ringing through the stadium, both women taking deep breaths and leaping from their seats.

“Oh my god.” Gen grabs Natalie’s arm, holding it tightly as the tears begin to form.

“I’m gonna have no voice tomorrow.”

It’s been a long time coming…

They stumbled into the Lahela apartment well past midnight, with tired feet, a bag full of concert merch and a smaller bag from the convenience store down the street. Both still on a high from the concert, and both eager to see if Natalie is pregnant.

“You know, if that comes back positive, my niece or nephew’s first concert was Taylor Swift. As a fetus.” Gen laughs as she sits down on the couch, taking off her shoes. Her makeup is no doubt smudged from the ridiculous amount of crying she’d done, and the pink glitter heart on her face now looked more like a glitter circle.

It was by far the best night of her life.

Aside from her wedding, of course.

Though, Gen was sure Ethan would understand if she placed tonight just slightly above their wedding.

“You are ridiculous.” Natalie laughs from the kitchen, grabbing them two bottles of water from the fridge then taking the pregnancy test out of the plastic bag. “So, I’m just chugging this bottle and then peeing on this stick?”

“Yes. That’s how it works.”

“Don’t be sassy, Mrs Ramsey.”

“It’s at the core of who I am, Mrs. Lahela.”

Natalie blushes, and smiles, walking over to meet her sister on the couch. “That still sounds wild to me. Like, I’m a wife.”

“Yeah, took me a bit, too.”

They sit in silence for a moment, both knowing Natalie is delaying the inevitable.

“Go.”

“Fine.” Natalie gets up, walking over the the en suite in her bedroom. There’s some rustling then her voice echoes from the other side of the closed door. “I think my anxiety just shot to the moon.”

“Yeah. It’s a lot.” Gen takes another sip from her water bottle, texting Ethan then looking through the hundreds of photos she took that night. She sends her husband a couple different ones, smiling when he responds with three hearts and an I miss you, my love. I’m glad you had a good time.

“Okay,” Natalie comes out of the bedroom, pregnancy test in hand. She drops it on the coffee table and plops down on the couch beside her sister. “Gonna be the longest two minutes of my life.”

“Yeah, when Ethan and I had that scare over the summer it was nerve racking.”

“How did,” Natalie pauses, searching for the right words. “How did you guys handle that? The possibility of being pregnant before you had planned. Bryce and I wanted to wait a little longer, but…”

Gen reaches for her sister's hand, squeezing it. “It was scary, especially because he was ready and I wasn’t. But we just had an honest conversation. I told him I was scared and he reminded me that no matter the outcome he supported my decision.”

“Would you have… you know?”

“No.” She shakes her head, a soft smile on her face. “If the test had come back positive instead of negative I would have kept it. Because at the end of the day, I want to have kids with him, and maybe that may not have been exactly when I wanted it but I knew that no matter what Ethan was by my side. We’re a team, like you and Bryce.”

“That’s true.”

“So, no matter what this test is about to say, I’m sure Bryce will be supportive.”

“He’s the best.” A dreamy look comes across Natalie’s face, the same look that she’s pointed out that Gen has had from time to time.

The face of someone thinking of their love and knowing it’s the greatest thing in the world.

The timer on Natalie’s phone goes off, and they both take a deep breath.

“Here we go.” Nat reaches for the test, and her eyes immediately become flooded with tears. “Oh my god,” her voice is no more than a whisper. Her hands shaking as she stares down at the piece of blue and white plastic.

“Let me see,” Gen takes the test from her sister’s hand, a soft giggle coming from her lips. “Sissy…”

“I hope fetus Lahela liked the concert.” She jokes through happy tears before both scream in excitement.

It was the beginning of a new era.

A/N: Kaili Marie Lahela is born January 2024 (I have the actual date somewhere but I'm too lazy to find it). And 8 months later, Lizzie Ramsey is born!

Thanks for reading friends.

(tagging separately)

#ethan ramsey x mc #ethan x mc #open heart #open heart fanfiction #bryce x oc #bryce x nat #ethan x gen #cfwc you go girls

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choicesficwriterscreations · 8 months

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Sept. 2023 MCs and OCs of the Month

In August, @lilyoffandoms hosted a Writers Appreciation Month, and we announced the September Writer of the Month would be selected from its participants. But all participants agreed - Lily deserved the honor! Still, we wanted to do something nice for the eleven writers who elected to participate to help uplift other writers in the fandom. So, this month, each of the eleven participants has one of their MCs or OCs highlighted.

This is the masterlist, and we hope you will enjoy getting to learn more about each of these fantastic MCs and OCs!

Ava Flores - TRR MC - @petiteboheme Casey Valentine - OH MC - @coffeeheartaddict2 Riley Brooks - TRR MC - @tessa-liam Sydney Valentine - OH MC - @peonyblossom Vivian Carrick - OH OC - @jerzwriter Alex Spencer Hunt - RCD OC - @lovealexhunt Alex Clarissa Fontaine - Nightbound MC - @ladylamrian Kennedy Grant - Foreign Affairs MC - @mydemonsdrivealimo Celia Moore - OH MC - @trappedinfanfiction Harper Gayle - TRR OC - @karahalloway Skylar Barnett-Lyons - ID OC - @aallotarenunelma

#cfwc mc of the month #cfwc oc of the month #choices fic writers creations #choices the stories you play #playchoices

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gutsfics · 2 years

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Meet My MC - Avalon Hammond

Pronouns: He/They

DOB: February 14, 1976

Books: Red Carpet Diaries, Hollywood U

LI: Thomas Hunt

More info below the cut!

There are two different versions of Avalon that I write about, one for RCD and the other for HWU, and while fundamentally they are the same person, there are some key differences between the two of them.

Height: Somewhere between 6'9 and 7'4

Favorite Color: Pink

Favorite Food: Waffles with strawberries and whipped cream

In both versions, Avalon was born in Texas in 1976 and given the name Jack Edmund Black Jr, although most people called him Eddie. He changes his name to Avalon when he starts his acting career because the Actor's Guild does not allow for two actors to have the same name. Avalon was originally a name he used for sex work, and he decided to use it full time because he felt it was more "his" than being named after his father. He is Texican, but his father is from Spain. He has an older brother named Jonathan. Both versions of Avalon are missing their right leg, although they are missing it for different reasons.

In Hollywood U, his parents divorce when he is 10. His father remarries and moves to Michigan and his mother, due to being in a very emotionally vulnerable state, joins <religion> and takes her two sons with her to Zodiac, Texas, a very small town run almost entirely by that religion. Although he doesn't believe in the religion as much as his mother, he still feels pressure to conform to it's beliefs and after returning from his mission at 21 marries his best friend/high school beard, Janey Hammond (he is also her beard). They have two kids together, twin daughters named Dawn and Lily. He is mostly a stay-at-home-dad, but he does sw to help make ends meet and he does community theater for fun when he can. He doesn't attend HWU until the girls are in third or fourth grade. My HWU story takes place in 2014, and he is 38. HWU!Avalon loses his leg mid way through his second year at HWU (yes, it will be a part of my rewrite fic)

In Red Carpet Diaries, his parents are considering divorce, but a car crash costs Avalon his leg and they decide to do what they can to make it work for his sake. They do not join the religion and move to Zodiac, but they do end up in the town which happens to have the schools that the kids in Zodiac shuttle to, so he still meets and befriends Janey. Without the pressures of religion, they do not get married but they stay very close good friends. Once he's an adult, Avalon becomes a bit of a drifter, never staying in one place for too long and earning money via sex work and drag performances. He very much enjoys this life and even though it doesn't last, he wouldn't do it any differently. In his late 20s, he ends up in San Fransisco, where he meets Thomas Hunt and they hit it off. He becomes Thomas' muse and when they move to LA, he quits sex work to act full time. Things get a little rocky between them when he is signed on to a movie produced by Montmartre and they break up. They don't really talk again until Thomas decides he wants to cast Avalon as the king in The Last Duchess and their feelings get rekindled.

#oc: Avalon Hammond #hollywood u #red carpet diaries #cfwc mcs and ocs #choices fic writers creations #Thomas Hunt x MC

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a-crepusculo · 2 years

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An Introduction

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Dr. Tobias Carrick x ? (F!OC); Dr. Ethan Ramsey x Dr. Marchia Bisognin (F!MC) Premise: A night at Donahue’s took an unexpected turn. Rating / Category: Teen / Slow Burn; A Side of Fluff Warning(s): None Word Count: 1004 words

A/N: Remember what I said on that taglist clean-up post? Yeah... Inspiration struck and I went with it. Suuuuuper-duper anxious of exploring this new dynamic, but I really do hope that y’all will enjoy this. 🤍

A cacophony of inharmonious laughter unfurled across Donahue’s tonight. The place was far more crowded than its typical Saturday night, mostly swarmed with regular patrons and other guests, binge drinking after their weekend shift. If Tobias thought that this was a good place to clear his head and get some peace, then Ethan must be right—he was not as bright as he claimed to be.

Maudlin surgical interns were singing their hearts out in front of the jukebox, screaming tunelessly to George Michael’s Careless Whisper, while the other half guffawed at the pitiful sight. Near the pool tables, residents from Edenbrook and Mass Kenmore were commencing their monthly billiards competition, which would somehow always end with them having a dance-off.

Tobias walked through the buzzing throng, the lively spirit thrumming inside his veins. As he settle down in his usual seat near the end of the bar, he came up with a plan to get through the evening. The scheme involves: getting a drink, chugging it in three gulps, getting another alcoholic drink, taking said drink(s) to Ethan and Marchia’s booth, and spending the rest of the night asking them to ‘get a room!’ because they are sickeningly too flirtatious at this point.

Plain and simple, right?

With a little bit of luck, he raised his hand and caught Reggie, who had swiftly placed his usual scotch in front of him. Days like these made him thankful that he was not an intern anymore; trying to get drunk from sugary shots that would send him straight to the dentist.

“One virgin mojito, please.”

A honeyed, melodious voice parted her away from the rest of the raucous tune that filled the space. She brought the fresh spring air with her—that long awaited, delicate floral scent pouring over him after a long drought. Her elbows hit the sleek wooden surface as she leaned against it.

Driven by primitive instincts, light blue eyes turned its gaze to unveil the unknown figure. He immediately blurted out the only thing he could think of.

“Hey.”

Smooth, Carrick. Real smooth.

“Hi there,” she replied.

Voluminous, lush curls spilled over her caramel skin—greeting him along with her dazzling smile. Warm lights accentuated her red silk dress; the lustrous fabric desperately clutching on to her sculptural form. It was the kind of dress that would catch everyone’s attention and leave them breathless, including himself.

“You new here?”

The young brunette paused a beat to dissect his suspicious question—though it was more likely that she could not hear his inquiry under this god-awful music.

“Perhaps,” she returned, giving a nonchalant shrug. “Is it that obvious?”

The sudden air of mystery thrilled him.

“To the eyes of an observer, yes.”

“An observer, or a creep?”

“A diagnostician, to be exact,” he playfully corrected. His response earned him an intrigued smirk, beautifully painted across her radiant face. “Tobias Carrick, at your service.”

“Hrm,” she grunted vaguely, swinging her head back and forth in acknowledgement. “I’m guessing you work at Edenbrook, then?”

“Yeah, though I’m still relatively new there. Used to work at Mass Kenmore.”

Another beat of pause.

She sipped her drink thoughtfully, before continuing with, “So, I’m also guessing that you were the one that ruined MK’s diagnostics team national ranking, then?”

“Whoa, slow down there. I did not—”

“On top of that, you abandoned your team and jumped ship when you heard Leland Bloom was hiring,” she interjected, her voice thick with coldness. “Impressive leadership skills you got there, champ.”

This time, Tobias was struck senselessly.

There was something angry weighing in her words, an urgency that made her remarks sharp and displeased. Aqua blue orbs stared into her hazel ones, his mind in a haze as he hopelessly tried to figure out who she was, or why she somehow already knew him. His dazed look mirrored his emotions.

Before he could say his piece, however, she turned to the bar and clutched her drink, ready to leave the poor man hanging.

“Have a good night, Doctor Carrick.”

Words escaped him once more. Standing still, frozen like an ice, he was left with the view of the mysterious woman fading into the crowd of dancing bodies. Burned by his own thoughts, Tobias snapped himself out of this mental obscurity and gulped the rest of his scotch. He let his feet quickly carry him towards Ethan, tucked inside his booth.

“You look like you’ve seen a ghost,” the Chief of Medicine sneered, inspecting his colleague’s demeanor from head to toe.

He plopped himself down to the springy seat. “Actually, I met this girl, and—”

“Ah, your latest victim,” he deadpanned, shooting Tobias with a mischievous grin.

“Ha-ha, very funny, Ramsey. Now, where’s your girl?”

Ethan lifted a brow in question. “Why do you need Marchia?”

“I need her FBI slash detective skills to track her down.”

“Right. That’s not psychopathic at all.”

“Just...” he lowered his head in defeat, entirely too tired to argue with Ethan. “Tell me where she is, please.”

“Chia’s meeting an old friend and bringing her here. She’ll be here any sec— Oh! There she is.”

Ethan waved his hand from their booth, catching Marchia’s attention. She steadily made her way, separating the sea of rowdy horde with her tiny figure, and finally emerged victorious in front of their table.

“Hey, you two! Let me introduce my high-school buddy,” she turned to the direction of the dance floor, signaling her friend to come closer. “She just moved to Boston and got a job at MK as their Head of Diagnostics team!”

The sound of her heels, clicking against the marbled floor, was all to familiar in his ears. In a matter of seconds, the sharp noise stopped in front of them—his heart pounding, ready to burst out of his chest. With herculean strength, Tobias slowly lifted his head to meet his fate.

“Nyla Imani Hassan,” she offered her hand, the tiniest cocky grin on her face. “At your service.”

Additional A/N: Please note that I am currently doing a Taglist Clean-Up, so my taglist is still a little bit messy right now. You can refer to that post if you want to be added or removed!

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jerzwriter · 7 months

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A Quick Study

Thank you to @tveitertotwrites for the suggestion: Any pairing, Cooking from this ask. I wanted to explore this with another pairing, too. And, once again, I completely ignored the 100-word thing... who was I trying to kid? lol

Book: Open Heart (Prequel - MC's Med School Years) Pairing: Casey MacTavish (F!MC) x Jessica Phillips (F!OC) Rating: Teen Words: 719 Summary: Casey's a little hangry during their late-night study session, but Jess isn't letting her off the hook. A/N: Participating in @choicesseptemberchallenge2023 Day 5, Notebook @choicesficwriterscreations bisexual awareness week; @choicespride bisexual awareness week.

The tiny apartment was dimly lit, as expected when the clock was nearing one a.m. But Casey had an anatomy exam to prepare for, and sleep was a luxury not afforded to the second-year med school student. As her eyelids became heavy, Jessica went into action. With a flip of a switch, the overhead fluorescent blubs blared, ripping Casey from the soothing haze she had been slipping into.

“Hey!” She protested.

“Hey, nothing!” Jess snapped back. “I’m not staying up with you for my health. We’re here to get you prepped for your exam tomorrow. Now sit up!”

Her commanding voice was a bit intimidating. If medicine didn’t work out for Jess, Casey was confident her girlfriend could have an impressive career as a drill sergeant. Still, she was too familiar with her softer side to take her commands seriously.

“No,” she protested wearily. “I’m too tired.”

Jess let out an exasperated sigh, but one look at Casey’s crooked smile and she was reduced to a marshmallow again.

“How about this,” the doe-eyed redhead smiled. “Answer one more question correctly, and we’ll call it a night.”

“Go for it!”

Jess lifted the notebook and read: “What is the name of the process of division of a somatic cell’s nucleus into two daughter nuclei?”

Casey squirmed before belting out: “Meoisis!”

“No! It’s mitosis! You know that, Case. Meiosis refers to the production of sex cells, not somatic.”

“Well, maybe I have other things on my mind,” Casey teased.

“Yeah,” Jess smirked, “Well, I’m not giving into that until I’m confident you’ll pass. I have a minimum GPA requirement to be my girlfriend, you know.”

“Oh really,” Casey chuckled. “Well, for your information, I wasn’t thinking about that! I was thinking about food! I haven’t eaten since 4:30.”

“Casey! Why didn’t you say something! You know you shouldn’t do that.”

“It wasn’t intentional,” she yawned. “I’ve been too busy.”

“Well, let’s fix that. What can we get you to eat?”

Casey picked up her phone. “There is a pizza place down on 37th that’s open 24/7. I’ll give them a call.”

“Pizza at one a.m.!” Jess scoffed. “I think not.” She headed to the small kitchen with Casey following behind.

“You won’t find anything. I haven’t been grocery shopping.”

“I’m sure there’s something,” Jess said, displeased to find mostly empty cabinets and some unhealthy options in the fridge. “Casey....” she groaned, feeling a little better when she saw a container of steel-cut oats. “Here. You can have this.”

“I could,” Casey blushed, “But... I don’t know how to make them.”

“You don’t know how to make oatmeal?” Jess’s brown eyes bulged. “It’s basically boiling!”

“Yeah, and burning. When I do it, it typically includes burning.”

Unsure if she was more amused or horrified by the reply, Jess brushed Casey’s golden locks aside and kissed her forehead to conceal both.

“I’ll tell you what. I’ll make you oatmeal, and we’ll study a few more questions. Then, we should really get some sleep.”

“All right,” Casey smiled, pulling Jess into a tight hug. “Thank you.”

“But, as soon as you pass this anatomy exam, we’re going grocery shopping, and I’m teaching you how to cook.”

“Jess, when it comes to anatomy, I’m a quick study – but cooking... that’s another animal.”

“Don’t worry, I know what I’m dealing with. We’ll start small. Grilled cheese for dinner tomorrow?”

“As long as you don’t mind burnt grilled cheese,” Casey grinned.

“Not on my watch,” Jess chuckled. “You’re lucky you’re so damned cute, MacTavish!”

“I get that a lot,” Casey smiled. “But you’re cute too... I guess you deserve grilled cheese that isn’t burnt for dinner tomorrow. So I’ll do my best.”

“Gee,” Jess rolled her eyes as she plopped the bowl of oatmeal on the table. “How’d I ever get so lucky?”

“We,” Casey smiled.

“We? We what?”

“How did we get so lucky?”

“Yeah, yeah,” Jess blushed. “You’re still answering a few more questions when you’re done. I’m not as easily manipulated as those silly boys you used to date.”

“Oh, I know that,” Casey assured. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

“Good! Now, what is the name of the process of division of a somatic cell’s nucleus into two daughter nuclei?”

“Mitosis!”

“See,” Jess winked. “You are a quick study!”

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

#choices fanfic #open heart #open heart fanfic #open heart choices #choices open heart #f!mc x f!oc #casey x jess #playchoices fanfic #cfwc bi awareness week

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angelasscribbles · 2 years

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Savage Love Chapter 14: Derby

Series: Savage Love

Fandom: The Royal Romance

Pairings: Riley x Liam, Riley x Drake

Rating: R

Warnings: Mature themes

Word Count: 2,215 (not counting text messages)

My other stuff: Master List.

The next morning I slipped from Liam’s room back to mine through the secret passageways. After morning sex and breakfast, of course. He made sure there was coffee and sugar. I could only shake my head. These men. As if one of them was going to win my heart on the basis of getting my coffee to sugar ratio right. I mean, I’m not complaining. All the attention to details, all the catering to my needs. I didn’t hate it.

I was still with Liam when Drake text the first time.

The second time was right after I got out of the shower.

Then Liam.

They both made me smile.

I finished getting dressed just as knock rang out. It was Maxwell Beaumont. “Max, hey! What are you doing here?”

“Ah…I’m here to escort you to the derby. As your sponsor, remember?”

“Ok. Are all the suitors being escorted by someone from their house?”

“Not really, but Liam asked me to make sure you made it there ok and found your way to the royal box by ‘accident’.” He did air quotes with his fingers.

“Alright, then. I’m not complaining, we can get to know each other a little on the way.”

He smiled and it was a wide, open, genuine smile. The kind that makes you smile back without realizing you’re doing it. I returned it and we headed for the Beaumont limo.

In the car, Max was focused, funny, and engaging for the roughly fifteen minutes it took to reach our destination. He escorted me into the derby, stopping for the reporters to ask me questions. They were the standard questions they asked everyone. What did I think of Leo? What did I think of the other suitors? How thrilled was I to be here? Max stood by with his hands in his pockets looking bored.

Once we stepped away from the reporters, he explained how to get to the royal box then sauntered off into the crowd looking vaguely distracted. He did a good job of projecting the image he wanted the world to see. I was sure no one at court had any idea he knew any more about computers than how to update his Instagram. I could see why the crown used his services.

His directions took me right to where I needed to be. I tugged my skirt down and smoothed the top before opening the door and entering the box.

Every head turned in my direction. Leo, Liam, Neville and a couple of other men I didn’t recognize.

“Lady Riley! What are you doing here?” Liam called out.

“Oh! Sorry! I….I must have gotten turned around! I was looking for the box for the suitors, obviously.”

“It’s fine Lady Riley.” Leo responded, “Come on in and let me introduce you to everyone.”

Leo quicky made introductions. The other two men were Lord Tariq Lambros and Lord Rashad Faheem. When he got to Neville, I exclaimed, “We’ve already had the pleasure of meeting at the Masquerade ball!”

A smile the size of a football field crawled across his face, “I’m so gratified you remember me!”

“Of course! You made quiet the impression!” I let him kiss the back of my hand as I fluttered my lashes at him.

I had to make small talk with everyone for two reasons. One, because it couldn’t be obvious that I was sucking up to Neville since I was allegedly there to court Leo and two, because Rashad and Tariq were both tripping over themselves for my attention as well.

When Neville stepped away to take a phone call, Liam pulled me aside. “Excuse me while I borrow her for a moment gentleman.”

“Certainly.”

“Of course.”

“Just make sure you return her the way you found her.” Leo joked. I shot him a look and he laughed.

“What could you possibly need to talk to me about? I just saw you this morning.” I asked him.

“I just wanted to ask if you’d like to get together later-“

“I’m sorry, as you know, there’s a luncheon with the queen after this, a cocktail party for all the suitors later followed by the Derby Gala, then I have plans for a late dinner with-“

“Will you at least save a dance for me at the gala?”

“Oh, I will save you several!”

He started to respond but just then the door opened, and Drake stepped into the room. “Sorry I’m late, I got tied up with some last-minute bullshit.”

“Hey Captain.” I greeted him.

Drake turned to me with a smile then froze as he caught sight of Liam’s neck. His eyes flicked from Liam’s neck to me then back again. When his eyes went to Liam’s chest, I somehow knew what was about to happen a fraction of a second before it did. Drake stepped in closer to Liam and landed a punch on his chest. The right side to be exact, precisely where the bruise I had left with my teeth resided.

He didn’t hit him hard enough to be a real punch, an angry one designed to start a fight, but more of a playful one, the kind guys give when they’re horsing around. It was hard enough to hurt just a little, except for the fact that he was already injured there. Liam flinched and his hand flew up to cover the spot, “Ow! What the hell, man?”

Drake smirked, leaning in close so no one else in the room could hear, “You think I don’t know where the fucking teeth marks go when she cums?”

“What?”

Drake pulled the collar of his shirt down just enough to show the patchwork of bruises on his own chest, quite a few of them, all in varying stages of healing, from almost completely faded to dark and angry.

Liam’s eyes flicked from Drake’s chest to my face then to Drake’s face as he settled back on his heels with a cocky grin in place, “It’s ok to feel threatened by me, Drake. I get it. I am a pretty damn good catch.”

“I’m not threatened by you, Li.”

“Could have fooled me.” Liam leaned in closer to Drake, so I had to strain to hear his response, “Quality over quantity, right?”

I cleared my throat and leaned in to hiss at them, “Stop it, both of you! This is not the time or place for a pissing contest and if your posturing fucks up my case, I’m done with both of you, understand?”

They stepped away from each other immediately, both flushing as they tried to apologize.

“I’m sorry Riley-“

“Brooks, I didn’t mean-“

“Just drop it! I’m literally in the middle of trying to build a rapport with a suspect right now! If my personal life starts interfering with my job, I’ll have no choice but to shut it down!” I was not going to start bungling investigations at this late date. I always got my man, or woman as the case may be. I hadn’t become the agent with the highest clear rate by letting myself get distracted by my personal life and I wasn’t about to start now.

They both opened their mouths but before either one could get a word out, I told them, “Don’t say anything else! Just nod if you understand.”

They both nodded. “Ok. Good. I’m going back to work now. Don’t either of you talk to me for at least an hour!” I spun and walked back to Leo and the rest of the group.

Leo leaned over to whisper in my ear, “Everything ok?”

“It’s fine.” I told him, “Just a bunch of male ego bullshit.”

He stifled a laugh, “What did you expect? They’re both crazy about you. Don’t act like you don’t know that miss reverse harem.”

It was my turn to stifle a smile as I punched his arm playfully, “Shut up, Rys. I’m here for a reason, remember?”

“Right.” His eyes searched the room for a moment then he called out, “Neville, a favor?”

“Certainly, Your Majesty. What can I do for you?” He asked as he hurried over.

“Lady Riley requires an escort to the proper box. As much as I enjoy her company, it would cause quite a scandal if I’m accused of favoring one suitor over the others, so it can’t be me that escorts her.” Just like we’d rehearsed. Leo really would make a good agent. Too bad he’s going to be king. What a waste.

Neville looked hesitant at first, likely not wanting to miss out on an opportunity to suck up to the future king. So, I leaned toward him, placing my hand on his arm with a coy smile, “I requested you.” I shot my eyes over to Tariq and Rashad then back to him to emphasize the point that I had other options.

That did the trick instantly. His face brightened as he offered me his arm, “I would be honored and delighted to escort you, my lady!”

I wrapped my arms around his as we left the room. I made eye contact with both Drake and Liam on my way out. I glared at them to be more specific. They both looked completely chastised but hell if I was letting them off the hook. Let them stew for an hour wondering if I was going to forgive them or not. They deserved it.

I plastered a fake smile on my face and tipped my head up to stare at Neville with a calculated look of adoration as he droned on about his collection of elephant figurines. His collection of ivory elephant figurines.

It was disgusting. Imagine slaughtering an endangered animal then carving its likeness out of its own tusks. Who does that? Who buys that? Do they not see the horrible irony?

“That’s so interesting.” I lied. “I’d much rather spend time with you than go back to the rest of the suitors.”

“How are you getting on with them?” He asked, “Any impressions so far?”

“Well,” I demurred, “I do find Lady Madeleine interesting. We share some similar philosophies and I believe she’d make a fine queen.”

It was a calculated gamble. If I was correct that both Madeleine and Neville were members of the Via Imperii, this should net me both his approval and trust as well as hers. It worked. I could see the wheels turning in his head before he asked me, “Similar philosophies? Such as? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“Oh, I don’t mind at all, Neville! I’m sure that you would agree, being the man of great discernment that you are.” I gave him a dazzling smile before leaning in to confide, “I just hope that whoever Leo chooses is one of us, you know what I mean? Someone that understands how to prioritize the interests of the upper classes. I mean, if poor people were so important to society, they wouldn’t be poor, would they?”

The smile that spread across his face told me I’d struck pay dirt. He squeezed my hand as he replied, “My God, yes! It’s so refreshing to meet a woman that gets it! I know that being charitable is all the rage right now, but interest in the lower classes is really just a hobby and should have no place in government.”

I managed to give him a real smile by imagining shoving his face into a pile of steaming dog shit as I responded, “Oh, absolutely! I mean, spend your money on whatever you want. I suppose giving it away to the filthy hoards isn’t any less wasteful than gambling it away. But at least when you gamble, you have a chance of getting a return on your investment!”

He laughed like I’d said something hilarious. “Ah, here we are, this is your box. But before you go, I’m attending a dinner party tomorrow with a group of friends I think you’d fit right in with. Would you care to accompany me?”

I fluttered my lashes and adopted body language that screamed I was shy. One of my best moves considering I am actually the opposite of that. But all those years of community theater while I was at university certainly paid off. “Well, I would love to, Neville, but if it’s not an engagement for all the suitors, I can’t risk my reputation….”

His face fell then I pretended to reconsider, “Unless…”

His head snapped up, “Unless what?”

“I mean…if I could bring one of my sponsors with me, then no one could think anything untoward was going on.” I mentally held my breath as he considered that.

“Do your sponsors share your…philosophy?”

“Oh, yes! I can assure you that they do!”

His smile broadened, “Excellent! Bring them along then! I’ll send a car for you at six.”

I suppressed my glee, not only was I going to a dinner party most likely filled with Via Imperii members, but I’d wrangled an invitation for Max as well. Two sets of eyes was always better than one and if we were exceedingly lucky we might be able to tag team, one of us providing a distraction while the other planted some listening devices.

I practically skipped into the box. Drake’s plan had worked like a dream.

#savage love #angelasscribbles #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #trr #choices #captain drake walker #agent riley brooks #liam rys #the royal romance fanfic #the royal romance #drake walker #choices stories you play #drake x mc #liam x mc #liam x oc #drake x riley #love triangle #angst

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peonierose · 27 days

Text

Losing Game (4/4)

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Bryce Lahela (M!MC) x Luna Auclair (F!OC)

Rating: Mature / Angst

TW: Mental Health

Word: 5,000+

Summary: Bryce and Luna have worked things out. But there is still one visit to make before Bryce and Luna find closure.

A/N: This has been a story that’s very dear to me. I went a bit off-canon so I hope you’ll give it a try. As always thank you to everyone who gives my stories and my characters a chance 🩷🌙

A/N 2: In case you missed the parts before here they are: Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3

A/N 3: Thank you to @annieruok94 🌷🩷 and @aallotarenunelma 🌺🩷 I hope you like the part with Adam, it was inspired by you 🥰

Side note: I also made a playlist for Part 4, (the previous two parts include a playlist as well).

The next day…

Bryce

I traded my shift with Aubrey so that I could have the day off.

I was watching Luna get dressed in a pink overall with a white shirt underneath, while I was lying in bed.

Luna turned towards me as she put her hair in a bun, a few blonde strands escaping her bun. She turned to me as I was basking in her light.

”I was thinking of visiting your dad today and I’d like to come with you if you want me to and if you feel ready for us to go together.“

I raised my eyebrows as I propped myself up against the pillow resting behind me.

”Are you sure? It’s not too much for you?“ I asked while I got out of bed.

She hugged me.

”Yes, I’m sure. Also, I love hugging you like this.“

”Any particular reason why?“ I grinned.

”This fine piece of ass. I like it.“

”Well this fine piece of ass made you feel real special last night. Also, I like this dirty side of you Lunes.“

I started to unbutton the straps of her overall but she stopped me.

”B we can’t. We’ll be late. The visiting hours aren’t that long.“

I sighed. She smiled and kissed me on my still-smiling lips.

”Really?“ I asked and tried to convince her for a quick round.

”Puppy dog eyes won’t work. Come on get dressed babe.“ She slapped my ass. I laughed out loud and got dressed.

And together we drove to prison to visit my dad.

Bryce

It’s weird to be here at the Halawa Correctional Facility, again.

The guards searched us, then gave us visitor passes and let us through. We sat at a dark grey table in the cafeteria, only one other guy was sitting down with his family from the looks of it.

I don’t think I’ve noticed anything that day. Not the color of the table or if anyone else was present. It might even be the same table I sat at the other day.

My dad walked in and they released the handcuffs and let him sit with us.

Both Lunes and I sat there as my dad walked over and sat down opposite us. He looked at me and smiled.

Then he turned to Luna and he offered his hand. Luna shook it and held onto it for a couple of seconds.

”You must be Mr. Lahela. I’ve heard so many things about you.“

I winced and tried to hide the fact that I hadn’t told Luna much. An acidic feeling rose inside of me. Recognizing it as guilt. For not telling her more about my messed up family life sooner.

But maybe I could change that and tell her everything later. I trust Luna, more than anyone. Maybe it’s time to lay all the cards on the table. Talking to Luna about my family might relieve some of the residual pain I’ve been carrying around for years.

”You must be Luna.“ My dad said and smiled at her. Luna nodded and I tuned back into the conversation.

”So Bryce has told you a lot of things about me? Like that pink is my favorite color?“ He joked but Luna didn’t know that my dad's favorite color is blue. Like mine. Well, blue-green is my favorite. I wonder why? I snicker.

”No way! I once told Bryce how good he’d look in pink scrubs. Like a deep magenta or a mauve tone. He’d be a stunner.“

My dad grinned at Luna’s enthusiasm. I haven’t seen him smile like that in a long time. Looks as if Luna can win anyone over.

”Or cherry red like that hickey.“ My dad pointed to me. I blushed down to my hair roots. Luna held out her hand for a high five and my dad smacked it.

”Hell yeah.“ Luna grinned, not embarrassed at all.

”Oh, man.“ I mumbled. She smacked me onto my arm.

”Ow that hurt.“ I rubbed the spot she smacked me.

”Man up.“ She grinned.

”Really? In front of my dad?“ I said and both Luna and my dad just laughed.

”Oh please. I’m sure your dad knows we’re sleeping together. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be pregnant.“

"Looks as if that train left the station a long time ago." My dad laughed out loud and started wiping tears from out of the corner of his eyes, Luna grins.

”I like her, she's got balls.“ My dad said.

”Dad!“ I exclaimed.

”Oh don’t worry. My delicate sensibilities weren’t hurt.“ Luna waved him off.

We kept chatting for the remainder of the visit. When it’s time to leave I help Luna when we both get up, my dad stands up as well.

”It was great meeting you Luna. I can tell you’re keeping my son on his toes.“

”Oh I sure do. Bryce is a great guy. I’m very proud of him.“ Luna said with a hint of a warning in her tone. My dad raised his eyebrows and got the message loud and clear. Then he smiled.

”She’s a keeper. Also, I’d love it if you called me Keola. Mr. feels too formal.“

Luna beamed at him.

”Sure no problem Keola. That would be nice. Would it be okay if I hugged you? You don’t have to, but I’d love a hug.“

My dad grinned and hugged her. God, what did I do to deserve someone like Luna? When they broke apart my dad waited.

”What are you waiting for? Get in here. Maybe before I become a grandfather?“

”Burn,“ Luna commented. I let out a surprised laugh and my dad and I hugged. It felt different to hug him now than it did when I was a teenager.

He felt more thin and frail. But it’s good to hug him because he’s my dad. And just like that something shifts into the right place. When we broke apart we picked up the conversation about the twins.

”We’re expecting twins in March.“ Luna said and my dad nodded happily. I can tell he’s happy. He’s got the same look in his eyes when Keiki was born.

”I have something for you.“ Luna got out a black and white picture. It’s the latest sonogram from the twins. She handed it to my dad.

”It’s an ultrasound picture of the twins. Kehlani Mae and Alaia Rose. You can keep it. We have another one.“ Luna said and my dad looked down at the picture. When he looked up, he held the picture close to his heart.

”Thank you, Luna. This means a lot to me.“ I smiled and hugged Lunes close to me. We all hugged again and then left to get to our car and drive home.

When we were inside the car I turned to Luna who looked at me. I smiled and reached into the glove compartment to get some tissues out and handed one to Luna.

”Here you go sunshine.“

She nodded in thanks and smiled at me.

”Thank you for today Lunes. I can’t even describe how much it meant to me that you went and visited my dad with me. Giving him that ultrasound picture? Making him smile like that? Man, I haven’t seen him smile as he did now in a long time. You made him so happy and me too.“

”Of course B. I’d give you one of my kidneys if it meant you’d survive.“

I smiled at her.

”B?“ She asked, looking tentatively at me.

”Yeah?“

”Can we just get some malasadas to go and then get naked?“

Which drew a surprised laugh from me. It’s like my dad said, Luna sure does keep me on my toes. But I love her, and it keeps me grounded in a way that’s hard to explain. That must be the feeling when you find the one.

”Not what I expected you to say. But sure.“

”I don’t want to ruin my overall, it's so cute.“ She said and together we drove to Leonard’s Bakery.

Bryce

We got home. Had some malasadas. And got lost in each other's touch. It was like coming home. It’s what we both needed.

We stand in our shower outside. Just holding on to each other. Like one of us is going to disappear in the next second. I felt the best when I was surrounded by water. It helped me calm down and it calmed Luna down too.

We toweled off and went into the kitchen. I stopped, putting some strands of her wet hair aside and I kissed her. Wondering how I got so lucky?

”You got so lucky because I’m awesome. And you’re my arm candy,“ she said, her tone getting lighter and I looked up at her. The shadows of pain were almost gone. I just kept looking at her.

”I’m sorry. I never meant to hurt you with my actions,“ I said.

She pulled me closer.

”It’s okay B I know you didn’t mean it. And I know a relationship and love are sometimes hard to navigate. But another stunt like that and I won’t be so nice,“ she said.

”Why are you so forgiving? I thought you’d be angrier with me now?“

I asked, honestly flabbergasted.

She gnawed on her lips nervously. Ahhh. She’s been harboring a secret too.

”Spill Lunes,“ I said grinning. She looked up.

”Okay don’t be mad, but Evie sent out invitations for our wedding a couple of weeks ago and I said I’d have to ask if you wanted your mom to be there but I forgot to ask you and now your mom has gotten an invitation and I sort of didn’t ask you?“ She looked crestfallen so I pulled her close and planted a chaste kiss on her forehead.

”You were totally buttering me up. I was thinking of inviting her. Maybe even thinking of giving her and Dad a second chance. Unless they give me a reason to not trust them anymore,“ I said my voice steely.

She smiled and I knew we were good. When she kept smiling I looked at her.

”What? Any more secrets you’d like to tell me? Like how you ate the last piece of strawberry cheesecake that had my name on it?“

”That was Keiki,“ she lied and I shook my head.

We heard the door being slammed and Keiki walked in.

”You said it’s okay if we shared that piece of cake! Now I get blamed for eating the whole thing? Oh come on.“

She went into her room upstairs and slammed the door behind her. Bryce and I burst out laughing. Luna wiggled her eyebrows.

”How about we try out that hot tub we got some time ago?“

I grinned at her getting where she was going with this.

”Getting you naked is my favorite pastime,“ I said.

”Likewise,“ she replied.

We both sprinted into one of our bathrooms where we set up a hot tub. Luna's idea. The best idea she’s ever had if you don’t count on us getting together.

I got put out of my thoughts when she stood naked in front of me.

She’s been feeling unsure of her body because it started changing ever since she got pregnant.

”You��re the most stunning woman of all time. So get that sweet butt of yours into the water,“ I said and she grinned.

”You only love me for my body,“ she grinned, getting comfortable in the water.

I huffed out a breath.

”That’s supposed to be my line,“ I said and she got closer until our bodies touched.

”Maybe you can change my mind?“ she asked.

”Oh I intend to,“ I said and kissed her until she forgot everything.

Until there’s just us and the love we shared for each other.

After a while when our fingers looked more like raisins, we got out of the hot tub. We dried ourselves and went to our bedroom. Lunes took one of my college shirts from Stanford and I just wore boxers. I turned Luna’s night light on. Illuminating the whole room, transforming it into the night sky.

When we lay in bed we almost stuck together. That’s how close we were. Needing this moment. Together. It’s what’s anchoring us.

I leaned into Lunes and sought her warmth, her comfort and she did the same for me.

Everything’s going to work out in the end, because our love is the loudest.

The next morning…

We got up, showered and lay in bed. Or well Luna was lying in bed while I was putting on some bum bum cream since she can’t reach it herself. I could feel her stare bore into me, making me smile.

”What now? Pillow talk?“ I teased and looked up at her.

”I…just wanted to ask if you’d tell me more about your parents. And what happened?“ Luna said.

I know she won’t push me, but she’d love to know more. I sigh as I put the lid back on the bum bum cream and kiss her calf. Making her laugh. One of my favorite sounds in the whole world.

”When I was younger…I don’t know, I always remember we had a lot of money. I never cared about that stuff. My parents were working in the real estate field. I wasn’t different because of it. And I didn’t act as if I was the center of attention, throwing money around.“ I sat at the edge of the bed and gathered my thoughts.

”Then there was this one night. I remember it was late and I just came back from a round of basketball with Kainalu and some of my other friends. I drove around the corner into our neighborhood in Maui and saw all these blue lights. Realizing the light was coming from police cars. Not having the faintest idea what the hell was going on.“

”Then what happened?“ Luna reached out and I helped her sit next to me.

”I saw my dad getting arrested, being put into a police car. I went inside the house like I was on autopilot. My mom came to me pulled me to the side and whispered I should take this bag from Keiki’s closet since apparently they haven’t checked that out yet. Take Keiki and get out of the house.“

”That must’ve been terrifying. I can’t imagine how you must’ve felt.“ Luna said drawing circles on my hands.

”It was horrible. I felt like I was trapped in a nightmare. Not able to wake up.“

”What happened with your parents?“

”Later I found out how we got to have all this money. It didn’t just appear out of thin air. I learned my parents made some bad investments and the people they owed money wanted their money back. Saying ”pay me back or else.“ I said remembering the court transcripts.

Luna puts a hand over her mouth.

”Oh god. What happened after that?“

I rub a strand of her blonde hair between my fingers.

”As it turns out my parents skimmed money off their clients. They had access to all the clients' private information. At first, nobody noticed anything, since it was only small amounts that disappeared and that could’ve been easily justified. But when larger sums started disappearing, they started an investigation, to find out what happened. My parents became desperate to pay the money back that they owed. But what they didn’t know was that the police set a trap and caught them red-handed.“ I sigh, sharing this part of my life was always hard for me.

As if feeling this was difficult for me, Luna turned my head towards her and smiled at me.

”You don’t have to tell me. I can see this is affecting you deeply.“

I shook my head and lightly kissed her temple.

”So if your parents got caught what happened to you and your sister? I can’t imagine you came out of this unscathed.“ She encouraged me to keep talking.

”I was finishing my last year of high school. I was one of the popular kids and became public enemy number one overnight. The other kids whose parents had lost money from my parents' schemes took their anger and frustrations out on me. It’s hardly surprising, but still, I wasn’t a part of it. Neither was Keiki. She was only what, 6-years-old? And that night my parents got arrested? It was Keiki‘s birthday. I felt so angry that they would be greedy and take some money and drag all of us into it. But I know now that maybe there’s more to the story and life isn’t always as black and white as we’d like it to be.“

Luna leaned into me to offer me some comfort, as I was telling her my deepest and darkest secret. One I’m still ashamed about, though I’m trying to make my peace with it.

”We stayed with close friends until everything was cleared. Mom was acquitted because she testified against my dad.“

”Your parents love each other B. She wanted to help him and he didn’t want her to be in prison. I’d do the same. If I could help you by not making you wear an orange jumpsuit? I’d take it.“

”You’d lie on the stand?“ I was shocked.

”Depending on what the lie would be. I’m not exactly good at lying.“ She replied. I smiled and nodded absently as if now realizing she could be right.

”You may be right.“ I said.

”What happened after?“ Luna asked.

”It didn’t get better once I started college. I asked if I could take online classes. The college board agreed because my situation was a bit delicate as they put it. But it became too much so I transferred to Stanford. Just to get out of Maui. My grades were good enough that I could justify a transfer. And they had an open spot, so I packed my stuff, and left. Keiki went to live with Mom in Maui, while I went away to Stanford. Keiki was only six and in elementary school when I left. I left everything behind and didn’t look back.“

I sighed as I was saying that.

”Do you feel guilty that you left? I mean you and Keiki made up. Do you think she still harbors hard feelings because you left?“ Luna nailed my emotional roller coaster inside of me on the head.

”I do feel a little guilty. But I hope she forgave me. I regret not being here for her. But then I wouldn’t have met such awesome friends and later on you, Lunes.“

”The love of your life. Just give this a bit of time and you’ll see things will turn around.“ She grinned and I kissed her. Simply because it made me happy.

I broke off the kiss and said into her hair.

”The love of my life has a good point.“

She grinned and I smiled against her temple and instead of talking about the past, we made memories for the future.

A week later…

I was nervous as all get out. I was never good at talking to other people about my feelings.

I knocked on a red door and when the door opened a tall man with blond hair, put in a bun, answered the door.

Adam smiled at me as I stood there like a weirdo. I smiled nervously. Waving at him. Why am I waving at him? Get a grip, Bryce! I let out a nervous breath I’d been holding in and smiled at Adam.

”Bryce. It’s good to see you man. What brings you by? Oh god, my mom would whoop my ass. Seriously, where are my manners? Come on in.“ He opened the door wider and his golden retriever Knox came closer.

”Knox. Sit. Remember, no jumping people.“ Adam said to his dog who just smiled. I didn’t know dogs could smile. Huh. You learn something new every day. I petted Knox, which earned me a lick on my hand.

I followed Adam into the kitchen and sat down on one of the chairs.

”Want something to drink? My cousin made some beer. It’s made from some native ingredients found only in Hawaii. He listed tons of those ingredients. To me, it just tastes like beer. You want some?“ His head was buried inside the fridge.

”Sounds good.“ I replied.

He resurfaced from the fridge and held out a bottle of beer. It shone like liquid gold. We both opened our bottles took a sip and whistled.

”Damn. This is some good shit.“ I said and took another sip. Tasting, honey, amber, citrus notes, and something unique. Like hibiscus? How did they incorporate that into beer?

Adam smiled.

”I’ll be sure to tell him.“ He smiled and put his beer on a nearby table.

”So what brings you by? I don’t assume this is a social call?“

”What, I can’t come visit you?“ I asked, trying to mask why I was there.

Because I feel embarrassed and ashamed for something I had no control of. But like Dr. Leslie said, letting go of the past doesn’t mean it won’t be able to hurt you anymore, it means you’re giving it less power over you.

”Look I’ll be honest. I came here to ask you for a favor. And you can say no.“ I said.

”What kind of favor?“ He regarded me carefully.

”I recently had some memories from the past come back and I realized I might need an outlet for my emotions to avoid having a panic attack during surgery.“ I told him.

”I’m sorry you’re going through a tough time. I am. I know how difficult it was when my mom died. I was angry at myself, at the world, at everyone.“ He admitted and I looked up.

”I‘m so sorry for your loss. I bet your mom was an incredible person.“ I said and peeled off the label of the beer bottle. Feeling the soft fur of Knox graze my calves. I reached and patted him and he lay down by my feet. Anchoring me in a way.

”She sure was. It took me some time to figure out how to handle my grief. And everyone handles grief and losing a loved one differently. So if there’s something I can do to help I’d be happy to.“ He said and smiled, his blue eyes sparkling.

”Can I ask what happened?“ He took another sip of his beer, turned his attention to me and asked me what I feared he might.

”My parents cheated a lot of people out of their money. And the kids at school got back at me and Keiki for it. My dad is still in prison and my mom testified against my dad so she didn’t go to jail. At that time my sister and I didn’t know what my parents did. I recently visited my dad and I don’t know. I guess I’m just not sure how to feel about this whole situation.“ That’s when I realized I'd been babbling and when I looked up I just wanted to run away. Or hide.

”First of all, I would never judge you, Bryce. I’ve got to know you over the last couple of months. You're a kind, supportive guy. Who’s hard-working and loves his family. You’re a good person. Don’t let past mistakes by other people define who you are at your core.“ He said and I breathed out. Before I could say anything he continued.

”And don’t worry whatever you tell me stays between us. You don’t have to worry that I’d spill the beans to anyone. I’m really sorry this happened to you. I never thought you’d gone through something like that. So what is it exactly I could help you with? I’m not exactly good with therapy sessions.“ He smiled gently.

”I worked something out for therapy. But…I…uh…I‘d love it if maybe I could work on some projects here with you. If you need any help. I know I’m not exactly qualified or anything. But maybe I could use your workshop in the beginning. I promise I won’t make a mess. Years of doing surgeries have made me a very organized person. At least in the OR room.“

Adam grinned.

”You got it. Use the space however you like. It’s yours. If I do need some help I’ll let you know. As a matter of fact, I could use your help. I found this dresser at an antique store and I’d love to restore it to its former glory. The wood carving is beautiful, I think it’s made out of Koa wood. It would be perfect for Maxine actually.“

He blushed and I smirked.

”So essentially two birds one stone?“ I asked and he nodded. That’s when I noticed how different he looked when Maxine’s name was mentioned. I wondered what I look like when I talk about Luna. Probably like a sappy fool. But probably a really happy one.

”You really love her do you?“ I asked and it dawned on me, how much his eyes conveyed his genuine love and respect for Maxine.

”Yes I do. Maxine is a special woman. Hopefully, I’ll be able to make her happy for the rest of my life.“

”I’ll drink to that. To love and good friendships.“ I said and we clinked our glasses together and just enjoyed a nice view of a Hawaiian sunset.

Life is hard but you make the best out of it every single day.

#Losing Game (4/4)#Bryce Lahela (M!MC)#Luna Auclair (F!OC)#Adam Sinclair (M!OC)#cfwc #open heart

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