#dr. tobias carrick

[alj4890]

Hi, I have a request. Take as long as you need, or just delete if you don't find it appealing, but...

I'd love a fic in the early days of Tobias & Chris's relationship. They're public now and very much in love, but he witnesses a tender moment between her and Ethan... how does he react?

🤣 I was actually working through a fic along these lines for one of my kiss prompts. Your request came at the best time to help me finish this 😊 Hope you like it 😘

Thirty Kisses in Thirty Days Challenge with the prompt: a passionate kiss ending in ripped clothing.

@jerzwriter @hopelessromantic1352 @trappedinfanfiction @twinkleallnight @tessa-liam @kyra75

Masterlist

Visceral Reaction

At a coffee shop not too far from Edenbrook...

"Hello, Doctor." Chris tapped Ethan on his shoulder.

He turned around with a start then slowly smirked at her. "What are you doing here?"

"I need coffee." She replied.

"So you decided to come all the way down here on your day off." He rolled his eyes. "Surely you've got a coffee maker at home."

Chris nudged him forward when the line moved. "Yes, I have a coffee maker at home, but this place makes the best pumpkin spice lattes."

Ethan winced.

"What?" Chris demanded.

"I can't believe you're going to ruin coffee with a fad." He grumbled.

"A fad? Pumpkin spice is not a fad!"

"Yes, it is." He argued.

"You are such a coffee snob!" She exclaimed. "I can't believe that the man who introduced me to the espresso romano is going to stand here and deride my love for pumpkin flavors in coffee."

"Lemon is a natural additive that is used to diffuse the bitterness of the espresso." He reminded her. "It does nothing but make the coffee refreshing."

He placed his order along with her typical pumpkin spice latte. While still arguing with her, he paid for both their drinks and guided her towards an empty table.

Chris sat down caddy cornered from him so she could watch the door for Tobias. Her gray eyes narrowed playfully on Ethan's blue.

"Are you actually going to sit there and say that the spices used to make pumpkin spice are unnatural? Because I would like to point out that cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves can be found in many people's gardens."

Ethan leaned forward, eyes locked onto hers. His smile grew over how passionate she could get when defending her arguments for something completely ridiculous.

"No. I am going to sit here and say that your addiction to those particular spices is unnatural." He gestured towards her cup. "No one should ingest as much of those as you do."

She burst into laughter while playfully shoving his shoulder for bringing up her need for all things pumpkin spice.

"You know," her eyes sparkled with her humor, "researchers at John Hopkins did a study not too long ago on why people like me love pumpkin spice desserts and drinks."

"Really?" Ethan relaxed back in his chair. "I'll bite. Why do people like you fall so hard each year for a scam of charging an extra dollar or two for some spices you could add at home yourself?"

She snorted, propping her head on her hand while looking up at him. "As you well know, Dr. Ramsey; smell particles are able to travel to the back of our nasal passages and activate our smell receptors when eating."

Ethan merely lifted an eyebrow in response.

Chris grinned at him. "And the parts of the brain that process odor are very close to the parts of the brain that process memory information."

"So this is all about triggering happy memories?" He concluded. "That's why you drink this poor excuse for coffee by the gallon?"

"I work with you, Ethan." She teased. "Pumpkin spice is the only thing saving you daily from my temper."

She winked at him. "If I were you, I'd get down on my knees tonight to thank God for giving you this spice for protection."

Ethan snorted, fighting back a smile. He hadn't realized he needed something like her humor to help diffuse the tension he was currently under.

"How's work going?" She asked, sipping her coffee.

"Well, for the most part." He replied.

Chris noticed the dark look that passed over his face. There was only one thing that she knew of that could cause that particular expression.

"Have you talked to your father recently?"

Ethan averted his eyes from hers.

"Yes. He keeps calling."

"About your mother?" She carefully prodded.

He nodded, eyes narrowing upon his coffee without really seeing it. His mind was a jumble of memories and lingering bitterness. It was both distracting and disconcerting that his parent whom he hadn't seen in over twenty years was trying to get back into his life. If she was causing these types of problems now, how much more trouble would she be if he allowed her into his life again?

His eyes shot down to the sight of his hand being held by Chris. Her thumb brushed over his knuckles as she squeezed it in silent understanding.

Ethan swallowed before looking up at her. There was no pity that he could detect in her facial expression, only a sense of friendly concern. Without words, she was letting him know that she was fully on his side and would support him no matter what he decided to do about his mother.

He gripped her hand in gratitude.

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

Tobias could only stare at the sight of his girlfriend at first laughing, talking, and playfully touching a man she not only worked closely with but also had quite the romantic history.

For some reason, their conversation took a dramatic shift from humor to being serious. Now, the two were holding hands while gazing at one another in silence.

Chris shared recently that she thought she and Ethan had found a new way forward in friendship. Tobias was happy that they had, especially since they worked together. He couldn't begin to imagine how awkward it must have been for the two of them. It was one of the many reasons why he never dated anyone that worked at Mass Kenmore. He needed work to be as stress-free as possible.

I had no idea that their friendship was THIS close.

He prided himself on never being jealous. At least he hadn't been before in previous relationships, or whatever his brief flings could be considered as. But, something about seeing Chris be herself, her fun sweet self, with someone like Ethan made his heart nearly stop.

Tobias knew Chris was his as well as her love and affection belonging to him.

If she still wanted Ethan, she'd never have agreed to go out with me.

He reminded himself that fact a few more times as he made his way over to their table.

Still though, why is she here with Ethan?

After all, she'd been the one to insist they meet here before going to see a matinee.

Was it so she could see Ethan or to get that coffee she talks about all the time, he wondered.

Chris noticed Tobias first. Her smile turned more tender just at the sight of him while she let go of Ethan's hand.

"Hey." Tobias greeted them both with a forced smile.

It took a lot of focus to keep it firmly in place.

Chris reached over and took his hand, tugging him down to greet him with her usual kiss.

That action went a long way to reassure him that all was still well between them.

Though he did still wonder at the closeness between her and Ethan.

He couldn't help but be worried. He trusted Chris and knew she would never cheat on him with another man. But...this was Ethan. He'd been the one man she'd waited over a year on in the hopes to be able to be with him.

"What are you two up to?" Tobias attempted to sound casual as he sat down next to her.

"Nothing much." Chris kept her hand in his. "Ethan and I were having our usual debate over coffee."

"Oh?" Tobias looked curiously back and forth between them.

The subject of coffee doesn't require all the little touches, smiles, or absolute attention, does it? Nor does it turn heartfelt later on.

"You need to tell him the truth." Ethan rolled his eyes at Tobias. "What we were really discussing--"

Here we go. Tobias braced himself.

"Is Chris's addiction."

Tobias sat there an extra second to absorb that statement.

"You mean her pumpkin spice addiction?" He asked.

"You told Ethan about your theory, didn't you?" Chris wagged a finger in warning at Tobias. "I knew you two would give me trouble one day."

Ethan chuckled. He was grateful that Chris was keeping the last of their conversation between the two of them. Though he was on his way to being close friends with Tobias again, he wasn't quite ready to share what was going on with his mother with anyone else at the moment.

He noticed the time and got to his feet. "I've got some lab results that should be finished by now. I'll see you in a couple of days."

Chris waved goodbye then focused on her date.

Tobias summoned his typical smirk for her before she could ask if something was wrong.

"What time does the movie start?" She asked.

"In about an hour."

Her smile turned flirty. "An hour, hmm? I think between the two of us, we can find a way to pass the time."

That wasn't a bad idea. He actually needed a little more proof that everything was still the same between them. What better way to do so than taking Chris somewhere more private?

"Come on." He laced his fingers with hers as he got to his feet. "Let's find a place without people."

Chris nearly tripped in her haste to follow him outside.

The sun was shining a little too brightly for what he had in mind. Tobias looked about the busy street, seeing nothing conducive to finding a spot where they could be alone.

He glanced down at her bemused face then led her towards where he'd parked. He opened the passenger door and instead of letting Chris get in, he sat down and moved the seat as far back as it could go.

His lips curved when he looked up at her.

"Care to join me?" He asked, reclining the seat the rest of the way down.

Chris laughed at his not so veiled hint of how they should spend their free time. Without a second thought, she settled on top of him.

Once the door was shut, the two attempted to get a little more comfortable.

"This is nice." She murmured, placing kisses along his stubbled jawline.

"Yes, it is." His hands moved along her back.

He needed more of her. His lips found hers in a heated kiss. His tongue slipped through her parted lips to seek her own. Her moans filled the air as she restlessly moved against him, needing more of his touch.

Tobias was determined to drive her crazy. He wasn't certain where this desperate need to do so came from. All he knew was he felt it the moment he stepped into that coffee shop and saw her with Ethan.

When I saw them holding hands...

His hands slid under her sweater to seek out all the spots that made her go wild. Chris broke away from his kiss. Her breaths hitched with every touch he lavished upon her mixed with how he kissed her neck.

The cramped space made every motion turn into an almost teasing sensation. It gave just enough friction to work them up but not enough to satisfy. The dark tinted windows fogged up, giving them all the privacy they needed to take things further.

Tobias became almost frantic to begin getting Chris out of her clothes. He gripped the bottom of her sweater and jerked it up. In his haste, he didn't realize that it had gotten snagged on the door handle.

A ripping sound rent the air making the two pause.

"How bad is it?" Chris asked, twisting around to see the damage.

"Bad." He muttered.

He could tell that the tear in her sweater went halfway up her back. Tobias was in utter disbelief that he'd allowed his jealousy to get to the point where he was actually ripping her clothes off just to prove that all was right between them.

Chris turned back towards him, mouth crashing against his for a long, deep kiss. Something about having him that eager to be with her made her desire for him quadruple.

Tobias moaned her name when she broke away to slowly begin unbuttoning his shirt.

Her gray eyes, stormy with desire, caught his attention.

"Since I can't go to the movies now," she teased, sliding her body against his in a sensual rhythm, "you'll have to keep me entertained for the next few hours."

His smirk flashed as he tried to catch his breath. Seeing her flushed from their kisses went a long way in giving him back his confidence.

"Just the next few hours?" His hands began their delicious torment to her sensitive skin once more. "That's all you need?"

Chris arched into his touch. Her lips curved as she gazed down at him.

"Not even close." She replied. "But it'll be a good start."

#thirty kisses in thirty days #tobias carrick x f!mc #tobias x chris #choices open heart #dr. tobias carrick #dr. ethan ramsey #otp asks

[txemrn]

Ricochet

Part IV: "... This Isn't What I Wanted (or Is It Everything?)"

Need to Catch up?

A New Boss (a prequel of sorts)

Part I: “Like Moths to the Flame”

Part II: “So Far Away, but Still So Near”

Part IIIa: “And I Know It Gets Dark…”

Part IIIb: "...But I Know the Way."

Pairings: Ethan Ramsey x F!OC (Tatum Erikson); Tobias Carrick x F!OC (Tatum)

Series Music Inspo: Ricochet by Starset (more of an acoustic fan? Check it here.)

Chapter Music Inspo: "Shapeshifting" by Taylor Acorn

Series Summary: Almost two decades ago, he gave love a chance–and she betrayed him. Now after all of this time, Dr. Ethan Ramsey and Dr. Tatum Erikson realize that their past feelings might not exactly be ancient history–especially now that they are forced to work together.

Chapter Summary: Tatum has called for assistance from the main OR, but will they be any help when several emergencies emerge at the same time? Tatum takes courage and finds her voice when she remembers an awful experience; she meets a new, young surgical resident

Warning: 🔞mature audiences only 🔞 TW: dub-con/non-con 🍋; strong depiction of a medical procedure; strong depiction of a medical emergency involving newborn infant and mother; language (including a slur against woman); angst; discussion of infidelity

Word Count: 4300 (+/-)

A/N: Characters and some plot belong to Pixelberry! Not beta'd, so please excuse my errors. Fair warning: this is not my strongest chapter (I mean, it took my FOREVER to actually finish it and post), but I hope you enjoy the journey regardless.

A/N 2: It really has been forever and day, so here's a recap: *clear throat* Previously in Ricochet... Unable to sleep after his encounter with Casey at Raf and Sienna's wedding, Ethan's heads in to the hospital despite it being his day off; after a challenging talk with Tobias about unspoken intentions with Tatum, the chief heads over to the L&D ORs, where he finds a terrified Tatum in the midst of a rare, very lethal surgery, and her hesitation doesn't go unnoticed by the staff in the observation deck as they ridicule the new chief of OB, Tobias being the ringleader of the hate; Ethan sternly bans them from witnessing the once-in-a-lifetime surgery before turning to encourage Tatum in the most Ethan-way possible: with just a look...

~🖤~

Remaining in her sterile surgical gear, Tatum carefully takes a seat on a metal stool, saving her back for the arduous surgery staring at her on the operating table. She anxiously chews on her lip, her eyes darting across her patient's open abdomen before fixating on her fresh set of steel tools. 

The procedure she knows like the back of her hand: clamp, cut, control bleeding. But, with the placenta growing outside of the uterus and into other organs, into the delicate vasculature of the pelvis, it's like going into this surgery blindfolded.

The uterus has to come out–and the patient is well aware of this and prepared. But, this isn't like any other hysterectomy. Will it cost the patient her ovaries? Her bowels and bladder? Her life?

Tatum urgently stands back up, staring at the clock on the wall.  It had been over twenty minutes, and her STAT page was yet to be answered by surgery. Too slow for L&D standards; way too slow for her own standards. And at this rate, the patient’s spinal anesthesia is going to dissipate before they even start. 

Damnit… think, Tatum, think…

She could always page Ramsey.

No.

Tatum refuses to resort to that. Well, not that calling on him for assistance would be the worst thing in the world.  

She had a brief moment of weakness–more like a moment of uncertainty, actually–when she discovered her patient’s unknown lethal condition, and Ethan clearly recognized the fear etched on her face from the gallery; truth be told, the accreta scared him, too.

However, Tatum is a highly skilled physician; her reputation for excellence precedes her. If she needs help, she will ask for it–and she has. 

She's embarrassed that she even needed Ethan's reassurance earlier, even if it was just for that moment, that simple nod of 'I believe in you.'  Sure, it was supportive, and it gave her that extra push she needed to power forward. 

But that look, that damn crystal gaze…

Damnit, why did she have to freeze? It was only for an instant, a very brief second.  Tatum Erikson doesn't need a vote of confidence. Not from anyone, not even from the famous Dr. Ethan Ramsey. She is independently strong, independently capable.

But now, Tatum feels as if she's accidentally exposed a secret side to herself, like her own Achilles' heel; it's quite possible now he knows he still has an effect on her.

Worse, now she knows he still has an effect on her.

She turns to Wanda the charge nurse, who shrugs her shoulders to the physician's unspoken question. 

Tatum takes a deep cleansing breath, trying her best to stay calm.  "Can someone please tell me where the hell is my backup ?"

"Right here, Doctor…"

Hearing the monotoned boredom of an unfamiliar male voice, Tatum spins around to find two gentlemen moseying into her operating room, drying off their hands with blue sterile towels. The tension raking her nerves is instantly relieved, seeing her help arrive.

The older of the men continues. "I'm Dr. Aaron Tanaka, chief of surgery," he nods his head towards the taller gentleman. "And this is one of my fourth-years–"

"Sup?" The young surgical resident smoothly winks at Tatum, popping gum under his mask.

Oh great, a kindergartner… Tatum rolls her eyes as the healthcare team assists the men into their protective gowns. As the physicians roll their gloves over the cuffs of their sleeves, Tatum escorts them over to her patient, catching them up to speed on what has happened so far. Together, Dr. Tanaka and Dr. Erikson develop several plans of how to overcome the patient's lethal risk of hemorrhaging.

"Whoa…" the younger surgeon exclaims, "I have never seen anything like that–"

Tatum clears her throat, glaring at the amateur physician.

"Should I start charging admission?" The patient jokes on the other side of the blue drape, causing the room to snicker loudly. 

Tatum leans toward the young doctor, her tone low and syrupy. And quite sarcastic. “Try not to say everything that pops into that feeble little brain of yours–”  He pops his chewing gum, winking with a finger gun.  Fucking residents…

As the room quiets down, the patient softly whistles to get her surgeon's attention. "Dr. Erikson?" Tatum tucks in her hands, carefully wiggling her body closer to the head of the table to hear the patient clearer. 

"Yes ma'am? You ready?"

The patient lowers her voice. "He's not, eh, doing the surgery, is he?" referring to the surgical resident who was shocked by the scene.

The blonde guffaws. "No, ma'am," she glances back to the young doctor who is now talking cooly with her staff, the nurses dow-eyed and eagerly laughing at everything he says. But suddenly, he fixes his flirty, soft copper eyes on Tatum. His intense gaze fools her into inadvertently staring too long as she begins to take note of his tall, trim physique. He begins to smolder, causing her to turn her attention back to her patient. "H–He's here for… my entertainment."  

“Is he hot? He sounds hot.”  Tatum gives a dramatic wink while her patient shoots a knowing look in return, clicking her tongue and giggling.

“Erikson?” The anesthesthetist breaks her from her reverie, confirming the case status. “We’re ready.”

"Perfect.” Tatum takes her place on a metal step stool, matching her height with her assists. She’s above average height for a woman at five-foot-nine-inches, but still, the men tower over her. She looks around the room with a commanding stance. “Are we set then?" 

"Ready when you are, Doc," Dr. Tanaka affirms, others nodding in agreement.

Tatum cracks her neck, taking a big deep breath. "Okay, then," she exhales, surveying her staff, "now who's ready to have a birthday party?" 

After a few shared chuckles, the patient was safely intubated and given the proper amount of anesthesia. Seeing that she was safely asleep under the appropriate gasses, Dr. Erikson quickly proceeds with her cesarean surgery, and in record time, she delivers a beautiful six-pound, thirteen-ounce baby girl. 

The OB takes the tiny infant in her arms, making cooing noises to welcome the tiny one into the world as she suctions out the mouth and nose with a green bulb syringe.  

But as the birthday cheers begin to quiet down around the room, the situation abruptly becomes dire: the baby is limp, her skin becoming dusky gray at the cut of her cord. Tatum continues to stimulate the baby to breathe with no avail.

"C'mon, baby girl," Tatum's words become gruffly matter-of-fact. She wrestles with her legs, flicking her feet  vigorously with her fingers, but her tiny frame lays flaccid in the physician's hands like a limp fish.

Lifeless.

No cry.

"Nurse?" Tatum urgently calls out, quickly handing off the stunned baby to the waiting NICU staff. "Keep me updated–" she orders as the team hooks the baby up to specialized  monitors, performing the necessary interventions to resuscitate.

Tatum briefly closes her eyes, taking a deep breath before she focuses on the surgery. Opening her eyes, she nods assuredly to Tanaka before continuing. “Pickups.” The surgical tech hands the obstetrician a pair of tissue forceps and a cauterizing tool to continue with her surgery. "I need an update, ladies," Tatum shouts. Her tone is assertive and controlled, commanding and clear. Inwardly she is panicked, but she remains calm, a testament to her leadership skills and her quick thinking.

"We're just past a minute of life. Pulse is 52. Starting compressions… draw up epi… let's get an umbilical line…"

Fuck. Tatum's nerves tangle as she listens to the baby's team of professionals administer medications and physical maneuvers to make her spontaneously breathe on her own. Still, the OB continues steadily and carefully with her surgery, glancing over at the baby every few seconds.

C'mon, baby girl. Cmon. Mama needs you–

Suddenly, a trill of alarms begin to blare rapidly, stealing everyone's attention. Before realizing what had happened, warm, crimson fluid spatters across the surgical field, saturating Tatum's arms, gloves and gown; her mask and shield are covered with blood.

"Erikson!" Shouts the anesthetist, "BP 67/23… heart rate now in the 150s…"

"That vessel on the lateral portion of the accreta blew.  She's bleeding out, Erikson–" Tanaka quickly suctions the field of the pooling blood. "She's getting shocky… and fast. How should we proceed?"

Fuck. Tatum grabs a stack of lap pads and tosses them to the young resident. "We need to find the source of this bleeding." He nods and instantly begins soaking up the copious amounts of fluid with the large, thick pieces of gauze as Tatum explores the body cavity with Tanaka.

"BPs dropping," anesthesia hollers.

"Give me a second–"

"Erikson! She doesn't have a second–"

"Bolus her and mass transfuse four units–" Feeling their stares, Tatum looks up at her concerned anesthesia team. "Now!" She growls, her eyebrows furrowing as she returns to the carnage. "Then cross and match four more units… and buy me a goddamn second!"

Taking a deep breath, Tatum flickers her attention to her assistants, both of them giving her an approving nod.

"Damnit! Dr. Erikson! I can't get this intubation on the baby. We need you–"

"Dr. Erikson! Vitals not improving–"

“Dr. Erikson–!”

“Dr. Erikson–!”

Tatum glances around the room, her paralyzing fear slowing down time. All she can hear is the thunder of her own heart racing, the rasp of her breathing echoing in her head. She sees the concerned faces; she hears the whispers of doubt and concern from her colleagues

She’s losing them. The possibility of losing either of them never crossed her mind, but both? A mother and child? This wasn’t the plan; this was never part of the fucking plan.

The sting of tears pricks at Tatum’s reddening eyes. 

What do I do?... what have I done?

------

The torrential downpour hushes to a dull tapping of raindrops as hollow roars of thunder rumble in the distance; but, the storm was just beginning for Tatum as she lays frozen in her bed, her sanctuary that she shared only with the love of her life.

And now, his best friend.

The room suddenly feels so different, so strange and unknown. It seems so ordinary, no longer special. The warmth of home has melted away, leaving a peculiar chill of unfamiliarity. 

There's a handsome smell, a spicy musk that hangs in the air. But, it’s not Ethan.

There’s a pair of distressed jeans tossed carelessly on the carpet, but the body heat that lingers isn’t from him either.

There’s a set of arms possessively wrapped around her naked body. The skin feels … different. The hair? Different. The actual grip and weight on top of her: it’s different.

It’s not Ethan. 

What have I done? Tatum’s eyes pain with the threat of tears, her chest beginning to rise and fall in search of fresh air, in search of clarity. But with each gasp of a new breath, she quietly whimpers in agony for the ache in her heart. 

She had broken the most precious thing she owned.  That she will ever own.

"You awake?" Tobias croons in her ear as his large hand massages the soft, flat planes of her belly. He tenderly works his way down, his fingers intimately petting her sore, swollen lips between her thighs.

She winces, her toes curling as her body grows rigid from his unwanted touch. She consciously holds her breath, hoping he won't notice her terrified nerves.

"What’s wrong, baby girl?" he whispers, pressing his full lips against her neck, biting at the sensitive area. “Are you needing more already?”

Tatum can feel his heavy erection against her hip, his intentions painfully aware. He slowly rocks himself against her body as if to charm her like a serpent, hypnotizing her to give him exactly what he wants. Another rendezvous; another fuck; another sin.

Desperate for a gentle hand, she foolishly lost herself in Tobias’s caress earlier that evening.  She was vulnerable, inebriated, and lonely.  In her altered mind, even for just a small moment, being in his arms made sense–well, being in someone's arms made sense. She needed Ethan. She was broken and hurt, and she despairingly needed her boyfriend’s love and comfort. 

But, Tobias was there. His words, the look on his face, the heat in his touch: it was exactly what she needed to sooth her wounds. For the moment.

And now, he wants to claim her once more.

Shit, can a woman deny a man if she’s already given in once? Does he have a claim over her, a right, an expectation? The conversation played out in her head: 'You said, ‘yes’ earlier, you tease. You whore…'

Oh God,  would he turn on her? Shame her publicly? Worse, would he tell Ethan before she could… that is if she decided to actually tell her boyfriend–no, she had to, right?  But if Tobias told Ethan before her, would he be honest about what happened? Or would she become another victim of slut-shaming? 'She couldn't be faithful; what else is she lying about?' 

It was one time; it was one mistake. Does that unravel three years of trust? Three years of commitment? Three years of love?

Tatum already knew the answer, and the taste of bile grazes the back of her throat.

She needed to stop this from happening again. But how can she while still protecting herself?

This was a grave mistake…

Tobias gently rolls her over, kissing hungrily against her pout. His tongue swipes across her plump lips, his large hand roaming down the outside of her thigh. But then he stops, sensing her awkwardness. “You okay?” His voice is haunting, dark, his gray eyes piercing her vacant stare.

No. “Uh-huh,” she lies with a nod. The corners of her mouth begin to curl as his hand grips behind her knee, hitching her leg around his waist.  Goosebumps ignite across her skin in betrayal as he pushes himself against her throbbing clit.

Stop, her brain screams.

“Relax, Tate,” he growls before reclaiming her lips, nipping and bruising them. "Let me make you feel good."

Tell him to stop.

“Is this okay?”

No. She reluctantly shakes her head 'yes' in agreement.

He aligns his girth with her entrance, fisting the sheets next to her head as he hovers above her docile form.

Say something! Do anything! she screams to herself, but she is paralyzed by fear. It's more than just the fear of the consequences of what's happening. Tatum is terrified of herself.

Then again, maybe she believes she deserves this. It wasn't going to be pleasurable for her, rather an act of attrition. Maybe that's why her body allowed his advances. Maybe she needed to feel the discomfort as a form of punishment for what she had done against Ethan. Maybe this was a last ditch effort to settle the score, to make things even.

Feeling Tobias's weight begin to push into her, she turns her head to her phone laying on the bedside table, praying for Ethan to call her, text her, anything to interrupt this.

But nothing comes through.

And suddenly, she sobs out a painful moan.

------

“Dr. Erikson—!”  

Say something… Do anything…

Tatum subtly shakes her head, the horrid memory fleeing her thoughts.  The frantic voices of the NICU team pull her attention to the struggling infant. 

“Please, doc, we need this intubation. We don’t have time to wait for our back-up–”

Tatum watches the mother’s abdomen pool with blood before turning a pleading stare to her colleague. “Tanaka–?”

“I’m on it.” He elbows his wide-eyed resident, “Suction.” 

Say something… Do anything…

Seeing the men take over, Tatum instantly rips off her dirty gown and gloves and positions herself at the head of the baby’s bed.  

“Would you like for us to call our back-up?”  The neonatal practitioner urgently interrupts.

Tatum remains silent, seemingly ignoring her. She slides a metal apparatus into the infant’s mouth before guiding a clear plastic tube inside the throat and past the vocal cords. Attaching an ambu bag to the special tube to assist with the baby’s breathing, she watches the tiny chest rise and fall in coordination with the squeezing of the ventilation. Tatum steals a stethoscope from a nearby nurse’s neck and listens closely to the lungs.

“Breath sounds…” she moves the flat, round bell to the other side of the tiny torso, “equal and bilateral.”  Tatum smirks as on-lookers silently praise her with sighs of relief. “Now,” she continues, “get this kid some epi. Oh! And ma’am?” She turns to the practitioner while handing the stethoscope back to the nurse. “I don’t need back-up.”

Slipping back into her sterile apparel, Tatum rejoins Tanaka and his resident, but quickly notices that he still hasn’t been able to find the source of the bleeding. She looks to anesthesia, “Where are we on our blood?”

“The first unit is pouring into her, but–”

“--she’s bleeding it back out–shit!”  Tatum stares at the flood of viscous crimson.

“How would you like to proceed?” Dr. Tanaka questions. “Maybe order some more blood?” 

Tatum thinks in silence, racking her brain for a solution.

“Should we call someone? Maybe someone who knows?” Anesthesia sardonically suggests, earning him a hateful side-eye.

“Maybe you should just plug the hole up with your finger,” the resident chuckles, his attending suddenly glaring in disapproval.  Tatum glances at him, her eyes squinting into a glower as her eyebrows furrow. 

These idiots–

But then she stops. She slowly cocks her head with curiosity as she suddenly considers his words.

Actually… 

"My apologies, Dr. Erikson,” Tanaka interjects. “Perhaps we should–"

“--plug the hole up,” Tatum interrupts the seasoned surgeon, echoing the resident's poor joke, only this time, there is a certainty in her voice. "I’m going in." She instantly sticks her gloved hand into the open abdominal cavity, gently feeling her way around the thick, warm fluid.  

“Dr. Erikson,” Dr. Tanaka chides, “this… is… highly unusual–”

“Just keep suctioning,” she orders, her hands tenderly brushing against the fragile uterus and the delicate vessels.  

Tanaka scoffs, giving a knowing look to a worried anesthesia provider. The tall, young resident looks to his mentor, unsure of what to do… or if there was anything to do.  He nervously looks back to Dr. Erikson, but suddenly his jaw falls open. 

Her eyes are closed.

"Erikson–?" the anesthesiologist attempts to get her attention.

"Give me a sec," she carefully feels her way through the body.

His voice grows frantic. "Her vitals are–"

"Got it!" She instantly peers up at her staff with relief before turning to her tech. Her hand remains deep inside the patient, her arm twisted at an odd angle. "Get me a 3-O vicryl suture on an SH. Now please." 

Tatum works quickly in silence as she temporarily fixes the weak, broken vessel. It wasn't a long-term answer, but this would buy them time to thoroughly clear the area of the accreta while cauterizing the necessary vessels before they performed the hysterectomy.  

"Okay, so–"  She flashes an innocent gaze to anesthesia, batting her eyelashes. "What were you saying about those vitals, doctor?" She's grateful she's wearing a mask to hide her smirk, but she knows her eyes are giving her away.

"Stabilizing, ma'am, uh. Doctor."

Shaking his head in disbelief, Dr. Tanaka suctions to clear the field–and it stays that way.

"How did you know that would work?" The resident questions, his warm gaze fixating on the blonde OB.

Tatum stops, thoughts racing through her mind as she considers her words. She then subtly shakes her head, returning to the operation. "I didn't… but sometimes even when you don't know what the answer is, you just have to do something. It’s way better than nothing."

------

Impressive. That's the word men use when a lady doctor kicks ass. The anesthesia team along with Dr. Tanaka couldn't stop talking about Tatum's heroic move of plugging up the ruptured vessel with her finger–and doing so only by her sense of touch, completely blind. If she were a man, they would've given her a cigar; but to be described as impressive? She knows her battles; she'll take it.

As they transfer the patient to recovery, Tatum takes a moment to herself to bask in the relief of saving a life. Of saving two. She slips back into the sink area to be alone in silence. 

Taking in a deep cleansing breath, she allows her nerves to relax for the first time in several hours. She tightly clenches her watering eyes shut, taking pleasure in the subtle sting of warmth after being in the frigid sterile air.

She grips firmly to the edge of the sink as she wiggles and contorts her body, feeling the sudden release of tension as her joints crack and pop.

She's grateful; she knows the success of the surgery was not by her doing alone. She would never be foolish enough to be that cocky, to truly think that something like this was completely in her control. There's only so much in her power, so much that science and her skills can fix.  But when lives are left to chance, she’s grateful that the gamble fell into her favor.

"Am I interrupting anything?" 

Instantly recognizing the familiar lax vocal timbre, Tatum looks up from the large steel sinks to find the tall, surgical resident, leaning against the doorway outside the operating room.  She smiles appreciatively at him as he takes off his blue mask.

He's young– maybe in his late twenties–and handsome with a natural caramel glow to his skin. The lines of his face are cut sharp, chiseled into perfect angles. He’s slender, but well-toned; his green scrub top pulls snug around the musculature of his biceps. Although his hibiscus-laden scrub cap covers his head, his sun-kissed brunette tresses are pulled back into a tiny ponytail. Most of the hairs, however, have already worked their way out of the elastic, resting on the nape of his neck.

"No," Tatum shakes her head, "not at all."

He steps into the room, casually sliding his hands into his pockets. “Can I just say… that was incredible.”

Tatum stifles a bright smile, feigning nonchalance as she picks at her nails. "I mean–" She glances back up at him, but seeing the glint of excitement reciprocated, she instantly forgets whatever smart-ass comment she was about to make and squeals. “God, that was fucking cool, wasn’t it?”

"The fucking coolest!  One of the most interesting cases I've seen in a while," he sucks in his bottom lip, his dimpled grin plastered wide across his face. "You just…” he snickers under his breath, “wow, I don't see myself forgetting this anytime soon."

Their playfulness quickly vanishes as Tatum catches a hint of something in his tone. Is he flirting? Becoming hyper-aware of his proximity, an err of awkwardness falls between them.  Feeling heat bloom on her cheeks, Tatum quickly attempts to rectify the situation by clearing her throat, rolling back her shoulders to straighten out her back. “By the way, thank you," she starts, "for your help in there with the, uh… with the, um–" Unable to find the right words, she begins holding up her pointer finger, spinning it around in the air. "Um… You know? The whole fingering thing–I mean–"

He chuckles, coyly looking down at the ground before meeting her gaze again, flashing his pearly whites. "Dr. Erikson, are you accusing me of 'fingering' in your OR?"

Tatum's eyes widen. She purses her lips together to stifle her laughter. Oh, so you're a bad kindergartner… "That… that's not what I meant, uh… doctor… um–"

"Bryce," he holds out his hand to take hers. "Bryce Lahela."

Speechless, Tatum mindlessly places her hand in his palm. She clears her throat again as she shakes his hand sternly in a poor attempt of being professional. "Nice to officially meet you--" she states matter-of-factly, "--Bryce. I'm–"

"--going to Donahue's," he interrupts.

 "What?"

He snickers. "You're going to Donahue's for a drink."

"Oh, am I now?"

"You are," he takes a step closer, the front of his Crocs kissing the toes of her tennis shoes. "With me. Those are the rules."

"Rules?"

"Mhmm," he hums as he lifts up her hand. Tatum didn't realize that he was still holding on even after their professional handshake. He points to the small tattoo on her wrist that she normally covers with her watch. "See this right here?"

"My tattoo?" She giggles sardonically to herself, curious as to what line he's about to feed her.

"You're a Virgo," he flashes a smirk, "which means we need to satisfy that impulsive side of yours by grabbing drinks together. In celebration of your badassery today, of course."

"Oh, of course," Tatum jests, pulling her hand away from him. "Too bad I'm not a Virgo," she turns to walk away, but stops herself, glancing back to him. "Also… you suck at astrology," she giggles before walking away from the sink area.

Bryce chuckles under his breath before jogging to catch up with her. "What’s with the Virgo ink then?"

Tatum rolls her eyes, glancing briefly at the collection of connected stars. "Long story–"

"--which… you can tell me… over drinks at Donahue's!" They both fall into laughter as Tatum comes to a stop in the hallway.

"You're not going to let this go, are you?"

"Hey, I wasn't lying about the rules. We have to celebrate."

Tatum looks up and down the empty corridor before crossing her arms, considering his proposition. God, is this what she is resorting to these days? Last night, Tobias and tonight, a resident? Who really is this guy anyway? 

Tatum wasn't sure if he was messy or complicated; but he was gorgeous, and he was available. Maybe. And he wasn't Ethan Ramsey. 

"One drink. As colleagues. That's it."

~🖤~

Tags (please let me know if you'd like to be added/removed):

PERMA

@alj4890 @ao719 @charlotteg234 @issabees @kat-tia801 @kingliam2019 @mainstreetreader @mom2000aggie @neotericthemis @nikirennie87 @peonierose @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam

ALL OPH

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------

Thank you so much for your support! Every like, comment and reblog means the world to me! 🖤

#open heart #choices open heart #choices oph #ethan ramsey #dr. ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x f!oc #ethan ramsey x tatum erikson #ethan x tatum #tathan #tobias carrick #dr. tobias carrick #bryce lahela #dr. bryce lahela #aaron tanaka #dr. aaron tanaka #choices fanfic #ricochet #open heart ricochet #tw dubcon #tw dubious consent #tw noncon #tw

[a-crepusculo]

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!

#open heart #open heart choices #choices open heart #tobias carrick #ethan ramsey #dr. tobias carrick #dr. ethan ramsey #open heart fanfiction #open heart fanfic #oph fanfiction #oph fanfic #playchoices #pixelberry #Tobias x OC #Ethan x MC #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #fics of the week #Tobias x Nyla #Ethan x Marchia

[jerzwriter]

TCAW Day 6: Dr. Tobias Carrick

More on my HC of Tobias as a physician below.

Tobias's family, prior to his father's generation, were historically lawyers or politicians. When his father, Charles, and later his uncle, William, decided to pursue a career in medicine, the family was disappointed. As a result, Charles Carrick never put pressure on his sons to pursue medicine. He wanted them to follow their own path. However, he was thrilled when Tobias decided to become a doctor... even more so because they were somewhat estranged at that time... and he felt it connected them.

Tobias loved science and solving mysteries; that was the driving factor behind becoming a doctor. Prestige also came into play.

While he did not enter the field for altruistic reasons, that changed after his father's cancer diagnosis when he was in medical school.

He was very respected, but (as mentioned above) his arrogance rubbed some the wrong way. Also, some liked his light-hearted, even flirtatious manner on the job, while others did not. However, when things were serious, so was he; he was completely no-nonsense.

Getting published, making speeches, media attention... he loved them. The more limelight, the better (a direct contrast to Ethan.)

As he matured, his attitude changed, and he was far more concerned with medicine and treatment.

When they moved to DC, and Casey took on a more demanding role, Tobias took a bit of a step back in his career. But when an opportunity to be COM at Innova Fairfax opened, Casey encouraged him to pursue it - and he enjoyed it... for a bit.

After Casey's near-death experience after delivering Kayla, both Dr. Carricks decided they wanted to make changes in their lives. They opened a family practice together that afforded them more flexibility and time with their girls. They found they were never happier.

@tobias-carrick-appreciation-week

#tobias carrick #tobias carrick appreciation week #day 6 #dr. tobias carrick #headcannon

[tobias-carrick-appreciation-week]

Day 6: Dr. Tobias Carrick

Day 6 - April 6 - Dr. Tobias Carrick

What kind of doctor was he? Was he respected? Published? Did he teach? What made him tick? Contrast how he mentored interns/residents with Ethan's style.

Remember - you can send in old or new fics, headcanons, artwork, edits, moodboards, etc.

Also... you can tag us in a post any day of the week (even if the designated day has passed). It will be reblogged here on the designated day unless it has already passed. Then we will post right away. 😊

Template added for Day 6

#tobias carrick #tobias carrick appreciation week #open heart #day 6 #dr. tobias carrick

[hopelessromantic1352]

Chapter 2 - The Triangle of Choice

It only took me like three or four months to finally finish this chapter, but I’m hoping it was worth the wait because this is dirty, naughty, lemony, nsfw-y, and just plain bad. I’m still excited for this series, I’ve just had a major block for quite awhile and haven’t been able to write much of anything. I’m hoping I can continue on with this, my Thomas Hunt series, and the requests/asks I have. Sorry I haven’t been more active!!!

Chapter 1

Warnings: swearing, NSFW, 18+ 🍋

Sorry for any spelling errors! Word count is around 1880

Tags: @cariantha @jerzwriter @tessa-liam @youlookappropriate @alj4890 If you’d like to be added or removed from a taglist, let me know!

As she stands at his doorstep, she trembles with anticipation. Whether it was nerves or excitement, she couldn’t tell. All she knew was this is going to be an unforgettable night.

After ringing the doorbell, it took Tobias only a moment to open the door for her. His cocky grin settles on his lips as he steps aside to let Casey in.

“Hey, stranger.”

She rolls her eyes once again, poking his muscular bicep, “You literally just saw me a few hours ago.” As she toes off her shoes, she narrows her gaze at him, “But I think I get it now.”

He chuckles before he locks his door and turns to her, “What’s that, Valentine?”

“You miss me so much whenever we’re apart, it feels like you haven’t seen me in forever. It all makes sense.” She smirks at his confusion, “You like me. You wanna kiss me.”

He barks out a laugh at her mocking Miss Congeniality and she joins in, doubling over as she begins wiping the corner of her eyes.

As their laughter dies out, he shakes his head. Gently, he grabs her hand and leads her into his kitchen.

The smell of a delicious curry wafts out of the kitchen before she even sets foot in it. Her mouth begins to water and by the time they’re seated at the dining table, her stomach growls loudly. Tobias smirks, setting her plate in front of her before he takes his own seat. He had poured them both a glass of red wine and he takes a generous sip before they both begin to eat.

“Well, how’d I do, Valentine?”

His lighthearted tone holds the usual cockiness Casey began to enjoy and she smiles behind a sip of Cabernet Sauvignon.

“I’d say decent at best.” She laughs at the over dramatic gasp he lets out.

“I’m utterly pained.” He put a hand to his heart, “I may need a doctor.”

Casey simply scoffs and shakes her head, “You’re flat out of luck.”

A few moments of silence pass of eating. The yellow curry fried rice is too delicious for her to abandon for long. But then, Tobias sets his fork down and focuses his full attention on the redhead across from him.

“So… what’s going on with you and Ethan?”

His question makes her nearly drop her fork. Trying to hide any emotion, she props her chin on her hand and raises an eyebrow questionably.

“He’s my boss. And a hard ass.” Casey begins to eat again, trying to act casual. “Why?”

Shrugging and taking a sip of his wine, his eyes meet hers. “Seems like you two are pretty close. I’ve heard rumors.”

Growing agitated, Casey levels a glare on Tobias, setting her fork down loudly before she crosses her arms. “You, of all people, should know hospital gossip is the most unreliable gossip around. Half the hospital wants to get in Ethan’s pants, they’re probably just jealous because I’m the youngest on the diagnostic team.”

He smirks, “That’s the thing, there has never been a rumor like that about Ethan. Like you said, he’s a hard ass, he doesn’t get close to anyone except Naveen and Harper.” He leans forward, lacing his fingers together atop the table. “You can be honest with me, Casey.”

“Really? Right now I don’t feel like I can.” She begins to push back from the table, her chair scraping across the hardwood floors. “Since you won’t believe me, I’m leaving.”

Not waiting for him to respond, she turns, heading for the door, but Tobias hurries up, catching her arm before she can get far and he pulls her body into his.

“Well, I guess if you two aren’t together, I can do this.”

He captures her lips in a searing kiss, but she quickly pushes him off and just when he thinks she’s going to slap him, her eyes drop down to his lips.

“We were, but not anymore.”

With that, his lips are on hers again. Their hands move erratically over their bodies. The heat between them sears hotter, the living room fading away as all focus is held by lust, emotions, and physical touches. Hungering for more, Tobias quickly pulls her shirt over her head, not surprised by the beautiful body hiding under the fabric.

She helps him, pushing her pants down quickly before moving to his own. She unbuckles his belt and unbuttons his pants, pushing his jeans down. Neither wasting a moment to get closer to the other. Both are left in underwear as he picks her up, letting her legs wrap around him as he moves them to the kitchen. He sets her on the counter, pressing his growing desire into her. He feels himself twitch when she moans against his mouth, his hand reaching down to expose his manhood as their lips continue working together.

As his briefs fall, his erection comes into contact with her exposed thigh. The heat and hardness of his smooth skin urges her heart to spike in pure lust. Tobias, with quick, precise hands, quickly undoes her bra and tosses it aside in one fluid motion. It falls haphazardly into his kitchen sink, ignored by the two occupants of the room.

When their kiss breaks, she shudders as his hands begin kneading her full breasts.

“You are so damn gorgeous, Case.” His hot breath washes over her skin as his hoarse whisper is rushed between groans.

A moan fills the walls of his apartment when one of his large hands pushes her thong aside and two fingers slip into her wet core. Her head falls back, red curls cascade down, splaying across his marble countertops as she surrenders herself to him.

“Yes!” Casey moans and writhes against his hand, needing more.

He can’t help but continue to tease her, seeing her need him. Only him.

He growls animalistically at the thought.

“Tell me you need me.”

His hand stops and pulls away from her aching, slick core. His eyes black with desire as his fiery gaze meets her own.

“Oh, fuck, I need you.” Her hips rise in ask, begging for him.

Seeing her like this almost makes him come undone. He needed to feel her. So he presses his tip into her entrance, pausing as he stares into her eyes.

“Only me?” The question comes out as a whisper, Tobias lets it slip without any thought, but as he waits for her answer, he rubs his tip against her pink lips.

The motion grabs her attention, distracting her from the question he’d asked. But the erotic movement stops and lets her think about Ethan.

Was it only Tobias? Or is Ethan still in her heart?

He didn’t wait one more second for her to debate internally. He couldn’t wait another second. She has had him so wound up ever since that day he witnessed her and Aurora in the diner.

As he slides his rock hard member into her slick walls, feeling her clench around him in the most delicious way, he kisses her neck. He bites her soft flesh, leaving a mark he’ll look for tomorrow.

He shouldn’t have asked the question he truly didn’t want the answer to.

So instead of thinking down that path, he started moving his hips. In. Out. Long, hard thrusts that urges her breasts to bounce and her head to fall back once again. Her knuckles are white as the slender fingers grip the edge of the counter and her legs are looped haphazardly around his hips.

She cursed over and over again in her head. He is so deep inside her she can hardly think. She can hardly breathe. His girth stretches her wide and the angle is just perfect for him to hit that spot that sends her over the edge. Not once. Not twice.

Over and over and over and over again.

Casey was sure they’d have to mop up after this, but damn she didn’t care one bit.

Tobias’ cock is just different than Ethan’s. Than anyone she’d been with. Not just that, he’s different. He is fun, lighthearted, full of himself. But he also knows how to care, he’d shown that early on in their friendship. Was it just because he wanted in her pants? No. At least she didn’t think so.

Maybe that was because he felt so fucking good.

“Tobias!” Coming again, she screams his name out as her heels dig into his ass.

This was the first time they’d had sex, but she could tell he was close. His hips began to move faster and harder, a bead of sweat has formed along his brow and his eyes have a lustful fire burning in them. His mouth is on hers as he hurries his thrusts, burying himself deep inside her as she swallows a groan from his lips. The thickness twitches inside her, spilling its hot seed into her core as her hands hold the back of his head, caressing the unfamiliar territory.

“I really hope you’re on the pill, cause I couldn’t stop myself.” His breathless whisper is followed by the cocky smirk telling her he already knew the answer.

They’re doctors. They know how to practice safe…ish sex.

“Duh.” Grinning at the roll of his eyes, she clenches her walls around him as he’s still settled inside her. “Mind if I go clean up?”

The reminder of her tightness around him had him wanting to ravage her again, but he didn’t want to come on too strong. Obviously she still had things to figure out with Ethan. And that thought hurts him.

This might’ve been a one time thing.

As they separate, he watches her gather her clothes, picking up the damp bra from the sink. She shakes her head with a smile, but he can’t return it. Not right now. Allowing her to shower and redress, he had some serious mind searching to do.

Tobias was not a man who got attached. He had flings, one night stands, flames. But a serious relationship? That was not him at all.

Then why did he want a serious relationship with her? What’s so different about her? Is it because of Ethan?

Oh, he could already imagine how pissed Ethan will be if he finds out they did this. Made love? Had sex? Fucked? He didn’t know what it was because he didn’t know what it meant to her. He did know it meant a lot to him, he just didn’t know why.

But his entire brain stops working when she walks back out of the bathroom. One of his dress shirts hangs loosely from her shoulders, only a few buttons close the material, leaving the majority of her body exposed to him. Her red hair is wet, tendrils hanging down the white material and a few drops of water have revealed her naked skin underneath the fabric.

He could talk to her later about where they stand in the whole relationship department. Right now, his other brain reminded him how beautiful she is and how good she felt.

He hadn’t worried about putting his briefs back on, so she could clearly see the effect she had on him and instead of beckoning him to follow, she drops to her knees in the kitchen and Tobias sees stars.

#tobias x casey #dr tobias carrick #tobias carrick x mc #choices #playchoices #open heart #the triangle of choice #ethan x mc x tobias #ethan x casey x tobias #ns*w #smut #18+ #n*fw

[coffeeheartaddict2]

Change of heart pt 2

Book: Open Heart (book 2)

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x June Hirata

Word Count: 4141

Rating: Mature

Warnings: Language,mentions of sexual activity, mentions of bio weapon attack, physical altercations

Category: Angst

Summary: Attack,post dagger mountain and the ending of June and Tobias leading upto Tobias starting at Edenbrook.

Disclaimer: Characters belong to Pixelberry

Authors note: this chapter will be a ride. All events take part in Tashland. There is also a scene that may seem out of character and I will discuss further with anyone wishes to via dm or ask box. There are parts of my book 2ch14 to 20 rewrite I want to amend, given that I have developed the story so much more from when I first wrote it. I was very early in my writing journey when I wrote it and the mentions of it is what I will be changing it too. So feel free after reading to reach out via DM or ask box and I will happily elaborate.

💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞

Tobias and his team make their way to the room where the attack happened. He relieved to see Casey was alive and appeared to be holding up ok, all things considered. I call out, “You also have the best that Kenmore has to offer also.” I was greeted with looks of shock and relief and skepticism. We were filled in on the current state of play and I feel that we came at the right time, knowing what we were fighting was definitely an advantage. Casey says no funny business and I assure there will be none. I am feeling bad enough that I missed so many red flags that lead to this attack and I was determined to find a cure.

We head to the labs. Baz, June, Aurora, some of Casey’s friends join us. I am surprised that Ethan is not with us but I assume he will join in due course. June whispers in my ear “Ethan is on tenterhooks, I never seen him this beside himself.” I nod in agreement. We get to work. We work at a steady rate. Each idea brings us closer and closer. I have no idea how long we have been working. I feel we are getting somewhere but I need a break. I go for a walk. I stop by a vending machine and grab a snack and walk to clear my head. I find myself at the room. I do a double take. Ethan in his hazmat suit, sitting beside Casey, watching over her, holding her hand and stroking her head.

“I’ll be” I mutter to myself. I had known Ethan a long time, he was never an overly physically affectionate person, not publicly, but here he was, full view of anyone walking past, being loving. In that moment I knew that the feelings were genuine, the actions at the softball game making perfect sense. I become more determined to find a cure. I head back to the lab, determined. I am caught up and get back in, completely focussed. June notices and quietly asks, why so focused?

“You have your theories but what I just saw, there is no fucking way his feelings are not genuine. I feel bad enough that I am apart of the cause of this attack but I am certainly not going to let Casey die on my watch.”

“Are you serious right now?” Questions June.

“Yes June now we have a cure to find!”

Finally we get the cure. A serum that attaches to the toxin and clears it. We all agree that this would be great to research and see if it can be of use in other toxins but we all agree, given the circumstances of the cure being found, we would only do so with the blessings of Casey and Rafael. The antidote is given to Raf first as he is in a coma then to Casey.

I have never seen Ethan more relieved when we said we found a cure. He administers the dose and let’s her rest. We are all exhausted.

“Thanks for coming, Tobias, today has been a very emotional day as you can imagine.”

“It was the least we could do, I know if the shoe was on the other foot.”

Ethan nods, “Head home Tobias, get some rest, you deserve it.”

“You get some rest to, Ethan.”

I head home, thoughts spinning around. The one that kept coming back was could we maybe reconcile. The main reason we had not was because he could not trust me after that night. We had always been competitive before and after our falling out but time had marched on and we were not the same people. I put the thought to the back of my head.

I hear from June that Casey and Raf have recovered. Raf was needing physio to get strength back but Casey was physically fine. He was happy to hear this. They met up on the night of the funeral. An invite was extended to the team from Kenmore but he declined, he felt bad enough that he courted the person responsible for their deaths. June was still not convinced of the genuineness of Ethan’s feelings. I ask her why she is so disbelieving. She says because there are work arounds if the him being her boss thing was the main issue. Also you said he does not do relationships.

“Yeah normally he does not. Hell the relationship he had at medical school took him long enough to enter. I was shocked then but also happy. May I also remind you were not at the softball game, there were expressions and actions that I have never seen before and you did not see what I saw that night. If it was an arrangement, as you do wholeheartedly believe, then why was Ethan with her the whole night, huh? Tell me June?”

June had no answer. June hated being proved wrong so she was determined to get information to prove one way or another. One thing June did know is that her arrangement with Tobias was not going to get her the information.

June goes to work the next day and she is furious. Ethan is taking two weeks leave and instead of her being team leader, Naveen was stepping in. June has had leadership ambitions since being on the team, she was annoyed that the team was still Ethan’s when he got his job back but this was infuriating. She was desperate for the truth and she knew that if she could find out when things started exactly, there was going to be a field day.

She had to bide her time and that was making her anxious. Tobias was becoming concerned. Then he thought back on some of their interactions and he was starting to question if he was just being used for information. He enjoyed the benefits, he could not deny that but he was starting to feel that the benefits were not worth it.

Ethan comes back and it is business as usual, but down a team member. June could tell he is distracted but could not put a finger on what it was that was causing it. Casey comes back a little unexpectedly and June did not know what to think. She wanted proof either way. She knew she needed to bide her time. Little did she know that her proof would be handed to her.

The team were seconded to a ski resort out of state. The patient had a ski-ing accident and appeared to have altitude sickness but the altitude was quite low. The team watches over her taking turns and Ethan is first. Ethan’s turn ended and then it was Baz’s. What piqued my interest was Ethan leaving the resort common area with Casey. I follow, keeping out of sight. I slip into the empty room and listen in. The conversation at first is droll, playing a game of make believe then some words I do not believe. He is wanting to spend the night with her and always wants to spend the night. Then there is kissing and other noises. June is shocked, what she heard definitely did not seem like an arrangement at all. She messaged Tobias telling him she had her proof. She did her shift. Morning came, back to Edenbrook they went. June was full of nervous energy. There was proof that it was more than an arrangement. Despite being dismayed that Tobias was right, she was full of thoughts. There were still rumours about Casey and Ethan but how does she deploy this bombshell? She hoped that maybe it would help with her leadership aspirations but she knew with Naveen as chief that it would be an uphill battle, especially if he got away with treating him in secret. Despite this though, she hoped that it would help. She was walking around when her phone rang. It was Tobias.

“What is your proof?” He asked

“Well I followed them to his penthouse suite. They did not see me. There was some droll conversation then the kicker. He asks her to say why would he want to be alone when he is with the woman he wants to be with.”

“Well you certainly would not be saying that, or doing anything like that if it were an arrangement.” Said Tobias.

“Now to get the information out…”

“To what end June? You said yourself that he got no punishment for treating Naveen in secret. Yes this is a relationship with a subordinate but if it was all consensual then not much will happen.”

June did not like that Tobias was making sense but she said "well if it tarnishes him and gets me some favour then it would be worth it.”

June notes that the nurses she walked pass while telling Tobias about what he witnessed and she smiled. The gossip will be all over this place in no time, she thought.

The day went on and and the rumour mill was awash with what occurred on Dagger Mountain. June made her way to the office and Casey makes her way in.

“So I have heard a few interesting rumours about you and our esteemed leader. I am wanting to know if they are true.” Said June

June can tell that Casey is pissed. She goes on a rant about how the only people who were on the mountain were out patient, her son and the team and how she stated they none of them would not spread gossip.

I asked if she truly believes I did it. This pissed her off more. She tells me that I would be more than willing to manipulate the team to how I want it and she had the audacity to state that I was threatened by her. She reminds me that her and Ethan’s history have no bearing on the work they do. I do not believe her. I call her out for going to the boss’s penthouse suite late at night. She tells me they were having a private conversation. I imply that I heard noises that were definitely not conversational.

This really angers Casey. I can tell she wants to slap me but instead she grabs a book and throws it at me. I dodge it and she walks out.

Over the coming days and weeks I could tell there was a change in dynamics between Ethan and Casey. I could not find out what was going on. All I knew is that Casey avoided me and Ethan was either despondent, angry or transfixed. It all came to ahead a few weeks later when she came into the office and used his precious coffee machine. He asks, rather angrily, what I was doing. I tell him I thought the machine was for all of us but I say I won’t use it again. He then asks what has gotten into me. The question confuses me. He goes on about my mind games hurting people. I question the validity of his feelings. He says he more than likes her, which shocked me. I then state that Casey is only on the team because of him. He looks angrier than I've ever seen him. I wonder if this is the Ethan that Tobias witnessed at the game.I then state that he was always sleeping with Casey and that because he can not do wrong in the eyes of Naveen, she was rewarded.

He slaps me. I am shocked. He states that they did not have any relations whilst the competition was on. I tell him that is bullshit.

“Believe what you want June, but if you cause any more upheaval or trouble for any one on this team, consider your days here more numbered than Edenbrook’s.”

Ethan grabs his coat and briefcase and leaves. June is left reeling. She knew that Ethan had a temper but lashing out physically? She messages Tobias and he comes to the team office. He sees June and she tells him what happened. Tobias was also surprised. He had been on the receiving end of angry punch at the end of medical school but he never thought he would hit a woman, no matter how pissed. He asked if she was going to take it to HR. She said that was the logical step but what would come of it. “If he can secretly treat Naveen with no consequence and have a sexual relationship with a subordinate then what is the use?" Ethan would also have his own dirt, I am sure he knows I have stolen Casey’s file.

Tobias was shocked that June would ever have access to an employee file, despite the shock he was mad at Ethan. Tobias took his leave. He makes his way to the parking lot and sees Ethan.

“You have a lot of nerve Ramsey” he yells

Ethan looks annoyed.

“What the fuck do you want Carrick?”

“Care to tell me why you slapped June then?”

“Not particularly”

“Never known you to hit on a woman Ethan. What, is Valentine not satisfying enough for you?”

Tobias has now reached Ethan and Ethan shirt fronts Tobias and shoved him up against the car.

“I have suspected that there was something between the two of you since the softball game, I also knew June had her suspicions and we were correct…”

Ethan maintains his grip but is shocked.

“You what…”

“You heard me Ethan”

Ethan let’s go, Tobias is relieved until Ethan punches him.

“That was for using Casey in your mind games with June. I suppose it was you that told June that he was in your care?”

“Yeah it was me and I have been feeling bad about it since. It could have happened at Kenmore and it was my fault. Do I feel bad that Casey got caught up? Yes. But since when do you enter a relationship? Especially with your resident?”

“Me and Casey, Carrick is none of your business.”

Both men are simmering with emotion by now.

“Yeah well what you do in your spare time became my business when you slapped June.” Retorted Tobias.

“Well you should have thought about that when your games started hurting others.” Ethan refrains from hitting him again and moves to make his way to the car.

“What, you are telling me that you did not fuck your intern to advance her career? I have known you too long Ramsey, you do not do relationships.”

Ethan’s blood was boiling with rage. He shirt fronted him again.

“Would you like to repeat that?” Said Ethan through gritted teeth. “You knew me in medical school but you do not know me now.” He shoves Tobias and enters his car and drives off.

Tobias sat there bemused. He had hoped that since the attack they may enter into dialogue to reconcile. They had both changed from medical school and were older and wiser but Tobias can not help but feel he blew any chances with the confrontation he just had. The altercation did solidify what he had witnessed. Any feelings were genuine, he still had doubts about whether or not the relationship played a part in her being on team, however he resigned himself to not knowing for sure. All he knew was that if the merger went through, it was going to be interesting.

Despite the work to get a merger happening, there was some unexpected news. Mass Kenmore had been bought out by Solomon Health. Tobias was surprised by this but was thankful for the security. He knew that he could have obtained a job anywhere he wanted, but it was one less thing to worry about. He had not seen June since the night of the altercation with Ethan and if he was being honest, he was not really missing her. Yes, stealing Stephanie was participating in June’s games but he had learnt that they had several offers and the only reason they picked us was because we were allowing Stephanie to be an outpatient from the get go. The more he got to know June, the more toxic she seemed. The takeover had little effect on the day to day running but news of Edenbrook’s imminent closure was coming. He knew that they would not only get more patients but also staff. He was surprised to see June in Kenmore. She said that she had just attended an interview for a position. Tobias smiled and nodded and then continued on his way. He was not excited to have her work her if she was successful.

A few days later June got the news that she was successful in obtaining a position at Solomon Kenmore. Edenbrook was awash with excitement about the upcoming gala but she was not going. She sees Casey and tell her my news. I suggest she should come with me, despite our differences we do work well together. Needless to say I am shocked when she tells me to go to hell. I tell her loyalty will not save her and that she needs to think about herself. Things get downright vindictive. She tells me how staying is looking after herself is putting herself first, she calls me a snake, then says the only time she would willingly go to Kenmore was to see me fired when my sex and power games with Carrick are exposed. I take my leave. It has been awhile since me and Carrick had partaken in our arrangement and it was something I was looking forward to recommencing.

June enjoys working at Kenmore but to her annoyance Tobias stays away. She is starting to get a feel for the politics of the hospital but she wanted more information and if she was being honest, she was missing the sexual benefits too. She makes her way to his office. She knocks on the door and he invited her to enter.

“Long time no see,Tobias” says June.

“What do you want Hirata?” Says Tobias rather curtly.

“What, can’t I come and see you, we do work in the same hospital now you know.”

“That maybe true but what is your reason really, giving Casey the info that lead to two deaths, nearly caused a third if the cure was not found when it was found not enough for you?”

“I needed information and it was the best way to get it…”

“Wasn’t Dagger Mountain enough proof? And what were you going to do with it huh June? If him slapping you was not enough for you to go to HR…”

“No it was not, well of the relationship yes but surely the relationship was why she is there…”

“No she is there because she solved a case that the combined brain power of Ethan and Naveen could not figure out.”

“Since when do you believe the propaganda that comes out of Edenbrook?”

“Looks like you I have no proof of timelines but our collective actions have caused death and enough is enough.”

“What do you don’t want to know how all your friends and enemies tick?”

“I know enough to get by, yeah a dick move for taking Stephanie but they had other offers too, yeah I took a gamble of telling you about Farrugia but you could have chose not to do anything. All it showed me is how much of a manipulative and toxic human you are.”

June was taken aback, “I was doing what was best for Edenbrook..”

“No, you were doing what was best for June Hirata. Do you even care that your ploy to get information killed two people huh? Well do you?”

“Well since when have you cared, especially with Ethan involved?” Questioned June.

“I have always given a shit June. Me and Ethan may have not been friends for a long time but I still respect him as a doctor. Are we competitive, yes always was even when we were friends. I was the one who fucked up. I accept that but this was too much.”

June wanted to say something but she was not sure what.

“Before everything happened June, I was starting to see your true colours and now that I have I want nothing to do with you and your games. Our arrangement is over. No please leave me alone.”

June was shocked and she leaves.

Tobias sits down and breathes a sigh of relief. He feels lighter for having confronted June but a part of him is sad. He knows his involvement and the altercation he had with Ethan and the accusations he leveled at him had killed any chance of reconciliation. The Ethan he had seen, the in love Ethan was an Ethan he had hoped to see and he had always missed their friendship. He was dirty that he had once again managed to screw things up. He sighed again and went about his day.

He had been at Kenmore for twelve years, he had a good career but the visible toxicity from June and just the changes from being brought out by a drug company, well Tobias felt like he needed a change. A part of him, despite what happened with Ethan had hoped that the merger went through but it was not to be. He loved Boston but he wanted a change. One day he was in the attendings lounge when he came across Terrance Mendoza. He had an offer from Leland Bloom to join the Diagnostics Team at Edenbrook and he was not too keen on the offer. He had heard that Edenbrook had been saved at the eleventh hour but he had apprehensions about working there. Tobias and Terrance discussed his reluctance at wanting to be on the team.To ias suggests using some leverage. He stated he has been wanting out and even though him and Ethan was an unlikely alliance, he thought it was worth a shot and this way Tobias was out of Kenmore and Terrance got what he wanted if Leland accepted the counter.

A few days later he gets the call from Leland telling him he has a job at Edenbrook. The next call he makes is to Ethan to tell him. Ethan is shocked. He was surprised that Tobias was wanting out of Kenmore but Ethan was relieved he did not have to worry about Dr Mendoza. Was he nervous, yes but he knew Tobias is a good doctor, despite everything that has happened, especially recently. All he knew is that Tobias came through when he could have easily said No and that was going to take a lot to diminish.

A few days later Ethan and Casey had a chat with Caroline. She was concerned about Dr Mendoza and the gray areas he was willing to work within, Caroline felt uneasy about him. She hoped to be proved wrong but she was not confident. After their chat, Ethan calls Tobias and tells him of the concern Caroline has. Tobias was not surprised and he stared he would keep an ear out but he did state he may be cunning with any of his plans. Tobias wonders if after this call that maybe any chance of reconciliation is not gone. He decides then and there not to force it, but he is hopeful. Meanwhile back at Edenbrook Ethan is deep in thought, hoping the genuine side of Tobias was not a figment of his imagination. He had missed their friendship, sure Tobias sleeping with Estelle hurt but the prolonged competition and failing to address the issue was their downfall. He had been in therapy only a short time but it had given him some clarity on the breakdowns of relationships he has had and he did hope with this newfound wisdom they could bury the hatchet.

Tobias’s first day came at long last. He arrived early hoping to catch Ethan alone. He got his wish. Ethan greeted him.

“Listen Ethan, I know things have not been right between us since that night, even though it took a year for all the nails to be hammered into the coffin that was our friendship and I know our last meeting was adversarial at best but I just want you to know I am here to work, not against you, but with you.”

Ethan looks on, thoughtfully.

“It gives me pleasure to hear that Tobias, truly. I must admit I was apprehensive but relieved when I heard you were coming aboard. All I knew is that I did not want him.”

“Fair call, he is not my favourite person either…”

“We’ll I look forward to working with you Tobias.”

“Me too Ethan, me too.”

Both were looking forward to it and little did they know that both of them were hoping that they could be friends again.

———-

Authors note: second part of submission for Tobias Carrick appreciation week day 3 with a bit of day 4. Further thoughts will come later today or tomorrow.

As per first authors note there are some ooc moments. I will be exploring them in my rewrite of a rewrite of book 2.14-20. I hope it will give more context but I am happy to discuss further via ask box or DM.

Tagging: @jerzwriter @jamespotterthefirst @genevievemd @potionsprefect @liaromancewriter @cariantha @bex-la-get @crazy-loca-blog @a-crepusculo @tessa-liam @peonierose @trappedinfanfiction @binny1985 @schnitzelbutterfingers @lucy-268 @socalwriterbee

@tobias-carrick-appreciation-week @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

#open heart #ethan ramsey #choices fanfic writers creations #casey valentine #tobias carick #dr june hirata #tobias carrick appreciation week #fic of the week #part 2 #book 2

[gutsfics]

11, 30, 34, 36, and 39 from the relationship asks

yay thank u 💞🩷💖💕

11. Which member is more physically affectionate

Avalon x Thomas - Avalon is more likely to initiate, but Thomas will reciprocate immedeatly

Devi x Noah - both. do Not separate them.

Harper x Tom - Harper, but only by a little bit

Baxter x Rafael - Rafael, but he makes sure that Baxter can handle any sort of physical contact. usually he waits for them to approach him

Simon x Wes x Ezra - its pretty even between Simon and Ezra. Wes isn't one to initiate at random like the other two, but he does know exactly when they need it from him

Reigan & Tobias - listen just because Reigan is asexual and completely uninterested in sex doesnt mean he doesn't love a good cuddle. theyre about even, but their limits are in different places

30. What is their favorite place to kiss the other? (Cheek, hand, closed eyelid, neck, nose, etc.) im excluding mouth & the peenids area for "its too obvious" reasons

Avalon x Thomas - all over the everywhere. you KNOW Avalon loves to pepper Thomas with kisses the second they see each other. He especially loves to kiss Thomas' top surgery scars when he has access to them. and Thomas likes to kiss Avalon's hands and fingertips

Devi x Noah - Devi likes to kiss Noah on the neck, and Noah likes to kiss Devi's nose

Harper x Tom - they both like to kiss each other on the cheek, although Harper Will blow a raspberry against Tom's

Baxter x Rafael - Rafael likes kissing Baxter on the forehead, and Baxter likes kissing Rafael on the knuckles

Simon x Wes x Ezra - Wes likes hugging them both from behind and kissing the back of their necks or shoulders, Ezra kisses the side of their temples, and Simon kisses jaws

Reigan & Tobias - they kiss each other's cheeks in greeting but thats about it lol Reigan isn't a kissy guy

34. Do they give each other nicknames?

Avalon x Thomas - Avalon has used every single pet name known to man for Thomas, but Darlin is like. the default one he uses for every occasion. Thomas calls Avalon Ava, and sometimes Bear

Devi x Noah - i mean besides Devi being a nickname of DeVante, not really. sometimes Devi might use a cutesy pet name but not often

Harper x Tom - Harper also uses a shitton of pet names for Tom, but all of them he makes up on the spot and he's never used the same one twice. and Tom will call Harper his sea monster <3

Baxter x Rafael - they're Babs and Raf to each other and (a few) others (not many other people call Baxter "Babs" though. Tobias started that), but also Rafael calls Baxter sweetheart a lot

Simon x Wes x Ezra - Simon and Ezra are Si and Ez, and Wes is just Wes. Ezra also uses codenames for them if he ever talks about them on stage, but idk what they would be yet

Reigan & Tobias - Tobias calls Reigan by his original Korean name, Sungwon, and Sungwon calls him Toby

36. How’d they meet each other’s families?

Avalon x Thomas - rcd: Avalon met Thomas' parents during their first relationship, his parents wanted to try to make amends but they weren't very good at gendering him correctly so he brought Avalon for support. it wasm't a super good experience but at least Thomas was able to get a little closure for himself. and while Avalon's parents knew about Thomas, they didn't meet him until their second time in a relationship. Thomas and Avalon visit Texas like once a year to see Avalon's family

hwu: like canon, at Rachel's wedding. Avalon met Simon before though. as for Thomas meeting Avalon's family..........

Devi x Noah - they knew each other since they were in grade school, they always knew each others family

Harper x Tom - i mean. after the start of ILB it's not like there's much family for Tom to meet, and he already knew half of it lol lmao [sobbing]. and Harper meets Tom's family after the events of ILW, once things have settled down. he was supposed to meet them sooner but uuuuum. Events and Happenings <3

Baxter x Rafael - just like in canon, Rafael takes Baxter to meet his family before theyre even dating <3 and Baxter is no contact w their family so i don't know that Rafael ever meets then. maybe i'll write a fic about it but no prommies

Simon x Wes x Ezra - they went to high school together, this just happens. i do need to write a fic about what happened when Wes' dad came to town and that date quest ended on a cliffhanger >:/

Reigan & Tobias - Reigan met Tobias' parents by chance bc they all live in New York City, i dont fully know the details yet? but i do know that Tobais' parents were trying to set him up w This Handsome Lawyer They Know and he agreed to the date to get them to stop asking about it. Reigan was unaware it was supposed to be a date at first, but bc theyre both aromantic they decided to keep "dating" to get both sets of parents off their backs about it lol

and Tobias met Reigan's parents on a trip to his hometown. the purpose of the trip was "See I DO Have A Boyfriend Please Stop Asking"

39. What other couple would your otp get along with the best?

Avalon x Thomas - Janey and her wife Bill. in both hwu and rcd. Avalon and Janey friendship is a canon event.

Devi and Noah get along best with Harper and Tom <3

Baxter and Rafael get along best with Reigan and Tobias

Simon x Wes x Ezra - Lisa and Aria. Lisa and Ezra regularly go on tour together, & they all hang out together a lot when not on tour as well

#oc: Avalon Hammond #oc: Devfield #oc: Harper Vance #oc: Dr Baxter Lucafont #oc: Simon Klein #oc: Reigan Lee #Red Carpet Diaries #Hollywood U #Thomas Hunt #Open Heart #Rafael Aveiro #It Lives In The Woods #Noah Marshall #It Lives Beneath #Tom Sato #High School Story Prime #High School Story #Wes Porter #Ezra Mitchell #Tobias Carrick

[havenroyals]

The once-private lives of doctors are being exposed. Earlier this month, court documents have been making their rounds online. The public records reveal Dr. Tobias Carrick and - now ex-partner - model Mel Anderson are fighting for custody of their daughter, Priscilla.

Insiders from both sides say each is geared up for a messy fight. Today, the former couple will appear in front of a mediator. If all goes well, they could avoid a judge's declaration. However, it seems things are getting worse for Mel.

Leaked photos of the supermodel are circulating the internet. The images expose the model for having an affair with photographer Pablo. The two have worked together on numerous shoots - a handful being Mel's most acclaimed.

Now, is this just poor timing or has the doctor decided to play dirty? Historically, mothers have been granted custody far more than fathers. As a doctor who recently opened his private practice, Dr. Carrick might be deemed unfit for custody of a child as young as Priscilla.

Beginning | GQ | Previous | Next

#gossip queen tabloid #wicked whims #ts4 simblr #ts4 storytelling #writeblr #ts4 legacy #ts4 #sims 4 story #ts4 story #simblr #blacksimscommunity #urban sims #black simblr #black simmer #ts4 black sims

[alwaysmychoices]

Every Night

Synopsis: Now that Charlie and Ethan are back together, they spend the first night of their new lives together -- and Ethan has a question to ask.

Chapter 44 of the “with and without” series

Previous Series: “a weekend with dr. ramsey”

Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x MC (Charlotte “Charlie” Greene)

Words: 2.9k

Rating: General Audience

Also available on AO3 & Wattpad (link in Masterlist)

There was something so peaceful about Ethan’s apartment tonight. Had this apartment always been peaceful? No, it couldn’t have been. Only last night, it was a mausoleum dedicated to the loss of true love.

But tonight, it was impossible to imagine these halls echoing anything but affection and contentment. The air tasted sweeter, the space felt warmer, the laughs were louder. One night of Charlie’s presence exorcised the ghosts that haunted Ethan in the middle of the night.

The change was subtle, but Ethan felt it with every step he took.

She’s here, he thought as he towel-dried his hair. She’s here, he thought as he stepped into his pajamas. She’s here, he thought as he savored the smell of her shampoo lingering in the damp air. She’s here, he thought as he padded to the living room.

Boston stared back at him through the windows – all the tallest buildings winking their congratulations.

The dim-lit space left evidence of Charlie’s presence in every corner – her shoes by the door, the crumbled pillow by her favorite chair, and the assortment of hair ties that followed her every step. Ethan was greedy for more of it, his usual tidiness be damned.

Ethan poured himself a glass of water and tapped the keypad of his laptop, waking it so he could check the time. With Charlie, time seemed to stop, but just as he suspected, it had continued for the rest of the world. It was late, so late that they should have been in bed hours ago if Charlie wanted to be well-rested for work tomorrow. But Ethan didn’t regret a moment of their night, nor was he eager to go to sleep now.

Stifling a yawn, Ethan curiously opened his notifications, and he was startled by the staggering amount.

At the top of the screen were the expected messages. HR paperwork for his new position with the hospital. Confirmation emails for cancelled movers. Pleas from a devastated recruiter trying to convince him to leave Boston anyway.

Then, there were the text messages reacting to the news. The Edenbrook rumor mill worked quickly, and by the time Ethan picked up Charlie from work, there were already whispers about their illicit affair.

Harper’s message came first. She was happy to hear that Charlie and Ethan were together, but she chastised Ethan for keeping the secret in the first place, though she insisted she’d sensed it long ago. She demanded dinner with the two of them as an apology, and Ethan typed back his assent, apologizing for lying to his friend and promising to make dinner reservations as soon as possible.

When Ethan sent his reply, he was surprised to realize that he was looking forward to dinner with Charlie and Harper. It wasn’t the first time that the trio spent time together, but it would be the first dinner where Charlie and Ethan didn’t have to perform, stifling themselves to avoid drawing attention to their relationship. Ethan liked the idea of integrating Charlie fully into his life – acknowledging the long-held truth that she was the most important part of it.

Above Harper’s gracious congratulations, Tobias Carrick sent a string of texts. It was clear that he hadn’t paced himself or censored a single thought, resulting in a string of consciousness as Tobias unraveled the revelations.

TOBIAS: I KNEW IT! I can’t believe you got caught MAKING OUT with a RESIDENT before you told me!

TOBIAS: Though Charlie is wonderful.

TOBIAS: So why does she like you then? She knows you enough to know better. How did you convince her to date you?

TOBIAS: Someone just told me you’ve been dating for a year. That better be a lie.

TOBIAS: No, it’s not. You’ve been evasive all year. That’s why, isn’t it?

TOBIAS: Then again, you’re always evasive and awkward.

TOBIAS: My office is next to yours, and I swear I heard noises today.

TOBIAS: Just heard the news that you’re leaving. Don’t fret. I’ll be the leader the Diagnostics Team has always needed.

The last message came a few hours later, when Tobias had clearly processed the news and felt it necessary to give a more cohesive and gracious response.

TOBIAS: Seriously though, congratulations. I’m proud of you.

TOBIAS: But don’t screw it up.

Ethan didn’t really consider Tobias a friend – not after their antagonistic history and current conflicts. But this string of texts tugged on some part of Ethan’s heart that had once considered Tobias his best friend. Perhaps it was worth trying again, even if this was just evidence that Tobias was as insufferable as ever.

ETHAN: Thank you.

There wasn’t much else to say, so Ethan didn’t bother trying. And frankly, for him, it was quite a lot.

After Tobias’s messages, there were a few more. Some of Charlie’s friends reached out to say they were happy for them. Sienna tentatively endorsed the relationship, though she reserved the right to murder Ethan if he messed up again. Jackie’s threats against Ethan were far less veiled, and Bryce sent at least a dozen excited emojis.  Naveen wrote with glee, boasting that their reunion had all gone to plan. When Ethan questioned Naveen’s direct defiance, Naveen ignored the question and offered the happy couple a weekend at his lake house to celebrate. Gracious for the offer (and Naveen’s interference), Ethan didn’t push it.

Nor did he need to push it.

Because there she was – his darling, wonderful Charlotte.

With Jenner close on her heels, Charlie wandered into the kitchen. The familiar scent of coconut and vanilla followed her, enveloping Ethan’s senses long before she looped her arms around his waist and nuzzled into him.

“There you are,” Charlie murmured, resting her cheek on his bare back. His skin was warm and scented with the mixture of their respective body washes – each still sitting in Ethan’s shower as if no time had passed.

In some ways, that made Charlie sad. She didn’t like to picture Ethan ending each night, staring at her half-empty bodywash and refusing to throw it away, even when he’d lost hope of her ever coming home. But the grief for their lost time was only a momentary interruption. In its wake, gratitude emerged. Because she had come home, and the bodywash was still waiting for her.

 Ethan smiled softly, abandoning his laptop and twisting his body so that they were face-to-face.  He leaned down to kiss the crown of her head, and Charlie shifted, leaning further into his embrace.

“What are you up to?” Charlie asked, her voice still in a daze.

The day had been so perfect – their reunion, their afternoon, their time at home. They’d spent most of the evening tangled in Ethan’s sheets, but not a moment of it had been quiet. They’d consumed each other in every way possible, from touch to speech. No time had passed, yet there was so much to catch up on.

“Missing you,” Ethan confessed.

Charlie laughed, “It’s been ten minutes since I kicked you out of the shower so I could actually wash my hair without you distracting me.”

“Way too long.”

“You’re ridiculous,” Charlie rolled her eyes, but it was the blush creeping up her cheeks that made Ethan smile. He kissed the flush as it spread up her skin, and he smiled against her cheek as she laughed.

Had anyone else ever been so happy?

“But really,” Charlie playfully swatted Ethan’s shoulder, “What are you doing? If it’s work, I’ll be obligated to make fun of you.”

Ethan shook his head, shifting so they could both face the laptop, “You’ll enjoy this.”

With a few clicks, Ethan brought up Tobias’s text thread. Somehow, the messages were even funnier from Charlie’s perspective. He lit up as he watched her read the messages, laughing at things he hadn’t even noticed before. Then, he showed her the other congratulatory messages. He thought she would like to see the well-wishes, but really, it was a silent effort to show he embraced the promises he’d made to her. He wanted her to know that he wasn’t hiding her anymore.

And Charlie appreciated every bit of it.

She reveled in the idea of dinners with friends. She wanted to be Ethan’s “plus one” to every event, even she’d have to throw her own party to get the opportunity. She liked how easily they talked about it, how Ethan actively participated in their planning without any pressure.

It was night and day from the man she’d once stormed out on.

Her chest ached with pride.

When Ethan reached Naveen’s message, he almost seemed nervous. As if suggesting a weekend away might break their fragile perfection.

“What do you think?” Ethan asked, when Charlie had sufficient time to read the exchange, “A weekend at the lake?”

Ethan had a whole pitch planned out. He was ready to remind Charlie that spring had just reached the city, the sunshine melting the ice and promising new beginnings. They could get out of the city and reconnect in the place where they’d first fallen in love. It felt like the right place to start their new chapter.

But a pitch wasn’t necessary.

“Yeah,” Charlie smiled softly, “A weekend with Dr. Ramsey. Sounds perfect.”

“A weekend with Dr. Greene,” Ethan echoed, mirroring her soft smile as he rubbed a gentle pattern on her back.

Charlie leaned into Ethan’s side, exhaustion peaking through their blinding happiness. Both of them were tempted to evade sleep altogether and stay awake all night, trading their wasted hours of rest with the promise of tender whispers and sacred promises. But relaxation had already seeped into their bones and lowered their defenses. They were both fighting to stay awake.

It was Ethan who declared the first move.

Pressing a tender kiss to Charlie’s forehead, Ethan suggested, “We should go to bed.”

“No, no,” Charlie shook her head, “It’s too early.”

“You have to be at work in a few hours,” Ethan reminded her, though he lacked conviction. He was just as willing to stay up all night as she was, if not more so since he didn’t have a morning shift.

“I’m a resident. I can handle a sleepless night.”

“Come on,” Ethan nudged her gently, “You’re being stubborn.”

“So are you.”

Ethan shrugged, Fair point.

Charlie eyed him warily – ready for battle. Ready for their opposing wills to dominate their minds until they were forced to pick a winner. Ready to draw blood before admitting defeat.

But then a moment passed, and it was all silly.

Charlie was tired, and Ethan would still be here in the morning. He would be there the night after, and the day after, and every day they were willing to share.

So, Charlie said, “Fine. Let’s go to bed.”

Ethan appreciated the magnanimous resolution, and he peppered her cheeks with quiet praise. Though, admittedly, he was inclined to think that everything Charlotte did was perfect. After kissing Jenner goodnight, the pair went to Ethan’s bedroom, ignoring the alarm clock on Ethan’s bedside table that would surely ruin their morning.

It wasn’t Charlie’s first time in Ethan’s bed tonight, but when she climbed into her usual place on the right side of the bed, it felt monumental.

The rose-colored glasses of their reunion lifted, and the gravity of the situation forced them back to earth. Instead of feeling silly for their reverence, they felt absurd for not having more.

War is over. The end of days never came. Insurmountable grief faded away. All the terrible things didn’t matter anymore. The past was in black and white, and the future was painted in vivid color and neon welcome signs.

Charlie is home. Charlie is in our bed. Everything is right, Ethan thought.

Charlie and Ethan tried to act casual as they settled into the sheets, but they couldn’t help but stare at the other. Their eyes were wide with meaning, communicating what neither had the bravery to say. When Charlie’s eyes began to water, Ethan quietly stroked her cheek.

After what felt like a lifetime, Ethan whispered, “I really did miss you.”

As if something like that needed to be said. As if it didn’t carry through every conversation. As if it wasn’t part of his DNA. As if she didn’t feel it with every adoring kiss and smile.

“I missed you, too,” Charlie met his honesty with her own, though her voice lacked his strength. At the slightest hint of a crack, Ethan tucked Charlie into his embrace, and Charlie took the opportunity to breath him in.

Sandalwood. Cedar. Vanilla. A hint of mint.

The smell of home, she thought.

Nestled safely in Ethan’s arms, Charlie’s eyelids grew heavy. Weeks of sleepless nights caught up with her in an instant, rendering her half-asleep in mere moments. As Ethan peered down at her, his chest squeezed with affection.

And suddenly, he knew.

He knew with absolute certainty that Charlotte Greene was his future.

He was overcome with an urge to propose right then and there. It didn’t matter that he didn’t have a ring or a plan or even ambience. Ethan just wanted to marry her. Hell, given the option, he would have run to City Hall right then and there to seal the deal.

Ethan opened his mouth to speak, but something stopped him.

We need time, he realized. The wounds were too fresh and the peace too fragile. He didn’t want to rush into anything that would endanger their precious newfound happiness, nor did he need to rush.

So, despite his overwhelming urge to the contrary, Ethan decided to wait – and it was just waiting. Not refusing or dismissing the idea. He knew they would make it, and he was sure that she would say yes when it was time.

But stopping himself from proposing didn’t eradicate all Ethan’s impulses.

No, he wasn’t out of grand gestures or over-eager requests.

“Move in with me,” Ethan blurted out.

Charlie stirred, wiping at her eyes as she sleepily asked, “What?”

“Move in with me,” Ethan repeated, less confident this time.

“You’re serious?” Charlie’s eyes widened.

“I am,” Ethan nodded, though he didn’t seem very sure. Despite his obvious commitment to the idea she move in, he didn’t have his argument ready – a rarity in itself. Ethan had never made any big life decision without a reasoned argument.

“You’re always here anyway,” Ethan softened, eagerness belying every justification, “and I want you here. All the time. I want to come home to you and share our closet, and I want to add your books to our bookshelves. We’re living in the ‘in between’ – with you sometimes living here and sometimes not. I’m tired of that. I want to be with you fully. In every way I can. This isn’t home without you.”

Charlie hesitated.

She was startled to realize that she already knew the answer. Before he even started talking, she wanted to say yes. And there was no good reason to say no.

It seemed rushed, but was it really? They’d been together for over a year, and she’d spent more nights here than anywhere else. Did time apart fundamentally change that? Did they feel so fragile that sudden changes would shatter them? Or had it been the status quo that drove them apart in the first place?

And did any of it fucking matter?

Would waiting really make things better? Would a slow approach save them from future disaster? Hiding hadn’t done them any favors, nor had abundant caution kept them from starting their relationship in the first place.

Charlie wanted to come home to Ethan. She wanted to put a name to all the things they’d silently endorsed for months, including her continued presence in this apartment. She wanted to cover the space with evidence of their relationship until it was little more than a shrine.

So, perhaps she didn’t give the offer the careful consideration it deserved. Or maybe she gave it too much consideration when the answer would always be the same.

“Yes,” Charlie blurted out.

“Wait, really?”

“Yeah,” Charlie nodded, realization creeping across her features, “My answer is yes. I want to move in with you.”

Ethan breathed a sigh of relief, happily covering her face with kisses. Between excited kisses, he assured her that she could always keep her old apartment, and he would understand if she changed her mind.

Charlie stopped him, “You don’t need to do that.”

“Do what?”

“Try to form a back-up plan,” Charlie settled her gaze on his, “I’m confident we’ll work out.”

“You are?” Ethan repeated breathlessly. It was one thing for Ethan to be blind in love, but it was quite another to realize she was just as high off this feeling.

“Yeah,” Charlie rested her hand on his chest, feeling the jackhammer of his heart, “Aren’t you?”

And amazingly, he was.

Nodding his head, Ethan whispered, “Yeah, I am.”

“Good,” Charlie leaned her head against his chest, “I love you, Ethan.”

“I love you, too, Charlotte.”

That was how they fell asleep – holding onto each other with persistent desperation and adoring reverence. Like they were so lucky to even get the opportunity to fall asleep together. Like it was a gift from the universe that they were here with each other. But it was better than fate – it was deliberate choice. It was an active effort to stay.

And it was the beginning of everything.

#choices #ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x mc #ethan ramsey x charlie greene #with and without #fanfiction #open heart #pixelberry #WIP #Dr. Ethan Ramsey

[alj4890]

Over the Top

(Tobias Carrick x F!MC) in a Choices Open Heart Drabble

Thirty Kisses in Thirty Days Challenge with the prompt: a kiss while being held bridal style.

Rating G

Thanks to @trappedinfanfiction for requesting this couple for this prompt 😊

@jerzwriter @hopelessromantic1352 @choicesficwriterscreations @trappedinfanfiction @twinkleallnight @tessa-liam @kyra75

A/N This takes place about a month after the attack and when Tobias and Chris return from visiting her family in Scotland.

Masterlist

"You're watching this again?" Tobias teased.

Chris pushed pause on the movie she was watching. "I thought you were going out."

"I'm not going to be gone long." He eyed the stack of blu-rays sitting on the table. "I'm only going to the store."

She followed where his gaze was focused and decided not to mention her obsession.

"Then, I'll see you later." She settled back on her side and pushed play.

Chris tried to ignore the amused smirk on Tobias's face.

"What is it about these movies that you love so much?"

Here we go, she thought to herself.

Chris was used to the men she dated never understanding her immense love of period pieces. She'd even dated a snobby few who insisted she read the classic literature they were based on instead of watching the movies over and over again.

Not one of them truly understood how these movies made her feel. It got to the point where she would only watch them when she was alone or with friends like Sienna who appreciated the over the top romance.

Since she'd been released from the hospital, Tobias insisted on her staying in his home. After the two weeks spent in Scotland, the couple were once again in his townhouse.

Chris's recovery was going well. And, as she'd done when she was a young girl, part of her self medicated treatment involved all the romance movies set in the 1700's and 1800's. She had the ones that were based on Jane Austen's works, The Bronte Sisters' books, and even a few more BBC adaptations like North and South and Lorna Doone.

Tobias, in her opinion, was an incredible care giver. He'd taken off work the past month to stay by her side and monitor her recovery. He was attentive, patient, and did all he could to make her recovery as easy as possible.

He'd readily gotten all that gave her comfort. Her favorite foods, thick soft blankets to keep her wrapped up in, and her favorite movies were brought in to make her feel at home and to help keep her distracted from not being able to work.

She didn't think she could possibly love him more than she did until she saw just how much he loved her during this rough patch.

But if he was thinking of making fun of her and her movies...

"I just love them." She mumbled.

"I gathered that since I'm seeing Willoughby carrying a Dashwood sister again." He leaned over the couch to press a kiss to her cheek. "I'm curious though as to what about these specific stories you love so much."

Chris narrowed her eyes at him.

"In case it isn't obvious, I'm a hopeless romantic."

"Trust me." He grinned at her. "I've noticed."

She snorted at that. "What I love about these movies, other than the sweetness, is the over the top romance."

Chris gestured to the screen. "Willoughby and Colonel Brandon literally sweep Marianne off her feet. Who wouldn't want that?"

"I believe I've swept you off your feet a time or two."

She smiled at him. "You have, but usually it was to take me to your bedroom."

Tobias smirked once more. "You weren't complaining."

"I certainly wasn't." She winked at him. "But this is romance I'm talking about. Not sex."

"When I pick you up, I mean it romantically." He argued.

"I know that." Chris tried once more to get him to understand. "But these movies have an almost poetic way of admitting to what is in one's heart."

She sighed, looking at the screen once more. "When Willoughby sweeps Marianne off her feet, romance is just beginning. When Colonel Brandon takes her in his arms it's because he's so deeply in love with her. You can see how he would do anything for her. There's a need to protect her, even from herself, because of the depth of his love."

Chris got up to refill her coffee cup. "That's what I love about these types of movies. You can almost feel what the--"

She let out a surprised yelp when Tobias picked her up bridal style.

"Dr. Christy Valentine," he said softly, tipping his head towards hers to gaze into her eyes, "allow me to say how ardently I admire and love you."

Chris looped her arms around his neck, smiling over him quoting Mr. Darcy.

"Wrong movie." She teased.

"It's still romantic." Tobias reminded her. "One might even say over the top."

"There's only one way to make it really over the top." She caressed his cheek. "And that's with a kiss."

"I didn't think the couples really did that in your movies." He teased.

"Thankfully, this isn't a movie." She pressed a tender kiss to his lips.

He deepened it, causing her to tighten her arms around him.

Tobias then carefully set her back on the couch and covered her up. Insisting she stay put, he prepared her another cup of coffee along with a brownie he'd surprised her with earlier.

"I'll be back soon." He kissed the top of her head. "I expect to find you here and resting when I get back."

He told he loved her once more on his way out.

Chris snuggled under the blanket as she focused once more on Sense and Sensibility.

She couldn't stop smiling over finding a man just as over the top romantic as those characters she loved.

#thirty kisses in thirty days #choices open heart #dr. tobias carrick #tobias carrick x mc #tobias x chris #tobias carrick #tobias carrick x f!mc #choices fic writers creations

[txemrn]

Is there a trait Baby Ramsey share with their parents, that makes people say “yeap, that’s you right there”?

Hey, Anon! This was such a cute Ask. Thank you so much for sending it my direction! I'm sure my answer is very similar to what others have shared, but ever since I pictured this baby, he/she has this trait (and you might be able to guess it just from knowing his/her parents. Here's a small little fic. I hope you enjoy! 💜

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x f!OC (Tatum Erikson)

Synopsis: While celebrating his/her first birthday, a few colleagues make note that Baby Ramsey looks and acts just like Tatum. Well, for the most part.

Word Count: ~1180

Warning/Rating: mature; language; brief mention of possible sexual misconduct

A/N: Some of these characters belong to our friends at Pixelberry; Julian Santiago is an ENT that went to med school with Ethan and Tobias; Bryce is married to Erin Winters (a beautiful OC of @kat-tia801); also, if you are new, I have not released the name or gender of baby Ramsey on purpose--I want it to be revealed in his or her own story. Also, this is not preread! Please forgive my errors!

~🖤~

"Dr. Santiago!"

The tall, broad-shouldered man turns towards the lax voice, chirping his name. And he smiles.

"Ah, Bryce Lahela," he chuckles, giving the young surgeon a firm handshake. "Good to see you, and please, just Julian." The men raise their cups of punch in salutations before they survey the brightly decorated room. “Where’s your wife?”

“Probably with your wife,” Bryce suggests as he continues to nod hello to other people in the room. As if on a cue, a group of women squeal exuberantly from across the room. Bryce winces before offering a crooked smile at the sudden, ear-piercing screams. “Oh yeah–”

“Yep," Julian jovially gives an approving nod, "there they are.” He takes a sip of his drink, but is accidentally bumped into by another party-goer. "God,” he scoots out of their way, “can you believe this place?"

Bryce raises his eyebrows, observing the overly crowded room of joyful smiles. "Who's watching the patients?" He snickers. "I swear at least half of Edenbrook is here."

"No doubt," Julian grins. "The guest list was clearly Tate's doing. If it were up to Ethan, there probably wouldn't even be a party. Hell, he doesn't even tolerate this many people." They fall into knowing titters, taking another pull of their drinks. Suddenly, another man sneaks up between them, slapping their backs, causing each man to nearly spill their beverages.

"Fuck,” Julian mutters, instantly recognizing the obnoxious intruder. "They really did invite everyone– more like anyone..."

Bryce hides his curling lips. "Hi, Dr. Carrick–"

Tobias throws his arms around his colleagues' necks, pulling them conspiratorially close. "Please tell me there are booze at this thing."

"Dude, it’s 11:30 AM… on a Sunday… at a one-year-old's birthday party," Bryce enunciates as he raises an eyebrow.

"Clearly you've never been in the same room as two women you've slept with–"

“Pssh, because you’re the only man in the world that has game? Please,” Julian rolls his eyes.

Tobias clears his throat. “To clarify: two women… Same night." He shifts his guilty gray eyes to both men. "Last night.”

“Ha!" Julian snorts, "Oh yeah, there he is. There’s our angel Tobias,” Julian snickers, shaking his head. "You're fucked, bruh–"

"--in more ways than one," Bryce interjects, causing him and Julian to fall into belly laughs.

“Ha ha, laugh it up, fuckers–”

"It sounds like some of our favorite uncles are having a good time," Tatum giggles, twirling around with three chilled bottles of beer in her hand with a chunky blond twelve-month-old on her hip.  She hands the three men a beverage as she switches the baby to her other side. “Tobe–” she lowers her voice, “--we don’t say words like that here,” she snickers, the other men laughing along with her.

"Hey, sweetheart," Julian places a friendly peck on Tatum's forehead. "Shit, I can't believe Ramsey 2.0 is already a year old," Julian gently cups his hand around the baby's soft head.

Tatum playfully stares deadpan at her good friend. "You're telling me," she turns to look at her first born who is holding out their hand to an expressive Bryce.

“Time for another one,” Bryce sing-songs.

“And turn out like you and Erin? Three for the price of two pregnancies?” She covers her child’s ears again as she whispers, “Hell. No.”

"My God, Tate," Bryce starts, all three men clearly thinking the same thing as they admire the toddler. "This little one is like your mini-me. Same eyes, hair, nose," Bryce kindly smiles as tiny fingers grip tightly around his finger.  Tatum beams with joy as she takes in the moment.

“This is Ethan’s baby, right?” Tobias jokes as Tatum slaps his shoulder.

“Asshole,” Tatum sardonically grimaces. Tobias’s face grows serious as he quietly holds up a finger to his lips and points to the baby, causing the group of doctors to fall into quiet laughter.  “Anyway, we really appreciate you guys coming,” she kindly grins. “And seriously, help yourselves to anything.”  As the men give chaste kisses to Tatum’s cheek, they each wave goodbye to the little one who eagerly returns the sentiments by blowing slobbery kisses.

“Such a social butterfly,” Bryce mentions.

“Just like Tate,” Julian appreciatively nods his head before taking a sip of his beer.  “Thank fuck, can you imagine a baby like Ramsey?” He shudders.  Tobias titters, clinking the neck of his beer with his old colleague before taking a swig.

“Ethan’s not that bad,” Bryce defends.

Tobias nearly chokes on his beer as Julian wipes away his smile. “Look, Lahela. You know… Tatum’ed Ethan. We?” He motions his hand in between his body and Tobias. “We know the prick that is Ethan Ramsey–”

“Hey, I dealt with his wrath when I was an intern–”

“No, no. He was worse before he ever met Tatum.”

“Ah hell, really?” Bryce takes a sip of his beer. “He was that much worse?”

“Shit, this one time–”

“If I can have everyone’s attention please!” Tatum calls out in a booming, cheerful voice.  The three men along with the other guests turn towards her to listen.  She takes a moment to graciously and tearfully thank everyone for celebrating the special day with them, baby Ramsey cheesing in her arms the entire time.

“I think someone is ready for some cake,” she chuckles. “Rams?”

As if on cue, Ethan walks out with a small, single tier cake with a candle that matches the larger cake next to the snacks on the refreshment table. Tatum gently tucks her little one into the decorated high chair while Ethan lights the wick.  The little one’s blue eyes grow wide at the flame, eliciting a few awes and giggles from the gathered crowd. 

“Are we ready?” Tatum smiles as Ethan snakes an arm around her waist. “On the count of the three, we’ll all start singing ‘Happy Birthday’.” Her watery eyes find her husband’s icy blues as he gives her a reassuring squeeze.  She takes a deep breath as she looks back to her one-year-old baby. “One, two… three!”

All at once, everyone starts proudly singing ‘Happy Birthday’.

Except for Julian and Tobias.

Both men have their hands over their mouths, stifling their obnoxious laughs.  Bryce continues to sing, but glares at his colleagues.

“I can’t,” Tobias finishes his beer, walking away into the kitchen as Julian dabs the tears from his watering eyes.

“What is so funny?” Bryce whispers, grateful that the singing is much louder than their snickers.

“Look," Julian chuckles, "look at that kid right now.”

Bryce cranes his neck between party guests, finally catching a good view of Baby Ramsey. And his face falls while the corners of his mouth turn up. 

Damn, if looks could kill…

There, slumped in a high chair, was the angriest-looking baby anyone had ever seen, complete with deep furrowed brows, a frown, and a deep glare. 

“Holy geeze, that kid is mean-muggin’ everyone–and during ‘Happy Birthday’!” Bryce chokes out before falling into quiet titters.

Julian finally is able to control himself as he finishes his beer. “Oh yeah, there he is. There’s our Ethan.”

~🖤~

Tags (updated 9/26; please contact me if you wish to be added/removed)

PERMA

@21-wishes @alj4890 @ao719 @charlotteg234 @issabees @kat-tia801 @kingliam2019 @mainstreetreader @mom2000aggie @neotericthemis @nikirennie87 @peonierose @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam

ALL OPH

@alyshak92 @annfg8 @bisexualdisasteracd @cariantha @coffeeheartaddict2 @lsvdw-blog @mvalentine @ofmischiefandmedicine @rookiemartin @starrystarrytrouble @youlookappropriate

#open heart #choices open heart #choices oph #play choices #choices stories you play #ethan ramsey #dr. ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x oc #ethan ramsey x f!oc #ethan ramsey x tatum erikson #ethan x tatum #tatum erikson #baby ramsey #tobias carrick #bryce lahela #julian santiago #choices fanfic #choices fanfiction #oph fanfic #choices oph fanfic

[a-crepusculo]

Meet My OC

—Dr. Nyla Imani Hassan

Basic Information

Full Name: Nyla Imani Hassan

Nickname(s): Lala, Ney, Nay

Place of Birth: Cairo, Egypt

Date of Birth: 14th November 1990

Hometown: Seattle, WA, USA

Ethnicity: Egyptian-Palestinian

Nationality: American

Hair Color: Dark Brown

Eye Color: Dark Brown

Height: 5′6″

Languages: English, Arabic, and (a little bit of) French

Personality Traits: Adventurous, enthusiastic, ambitious, familial, outspoken, stubborn, (can be) demanding, hot-headed, reliable, passionate, cautious

Hobbies: Hiking, swimming, photography, playing video games

Face Claim: May Calamawy

Family

Father: Hassan Noor Ali

Mother: Aisha Zahrah Mustafa

Sibling(s): Zayn Samir Hassan (older brother; deceased), Aida Zafira Hassan (younger sister)

Education

Medical School: Harvard Medical School at Harvard University

Undergraduate: University of Washington, majored in Biochemistry

Career

Current Occupation: Doctor, Internal Medicine | Head of Diagnostics Team at Mass Kenmore, MA

Past Occupation: Doctor, Internal Medicine | Attending at Mayo Clinic, MN

Romantic Relationship

Love Interest: Tobias Carrick

Personal Background

Nyla was born in Egypt, but moved with her family to Miami when she was three years old. They stayed there for a year with a close relative, then her father decided to move to Seattle when they have saved enough money

For the first few years of living in the US, their family has struggled financially

Though, despite those struggles, her parents have always prioritized Nyla and her siblings’ education, making sure that they could continue to learn in school

As an immigrant, Nyla was often belittled and bullied by her classmates, especially during elementary school. She was not (yet) fluent in English, so she would often mix up certain words and sentences

Things started to look up when her father was able to open up his own automobile repair shop, which instantly became popular in the neighborhood

However, when she came home one evening, she found her older brother laying on the floor, struggling to breathe. They rushed him to the hospital, but the hospital could not admit him due to lack of insurance. Her family moved him to another hospital, in hopes of him getting admitted and treated first, yet they were also declined in that hospital. As they rush to move him again to another hospital, her brother has passed away.

That specific moment became one of many reasons Nyla decided to be a doctor

Random Facts

Nyla loves swimming, and she got into the regional synchronized swimming squad when she was six years old.

One of her favorite childhood memory is riding the Seattle Great Wheel with her family when they first arrived at Seattle

Her current comfort show is Bridgerton

She always has a book in her bag wherever she goes, just in case she has some free time to read up

She would always bring white roses to her brother’s grave whenever she visits him

She met Marchia in middle school, and slowly became close friends as time flew by. They lost contact when Nyla got her internship at Mayo Clinic, but rekindled her friendship shortly after learning that Marchia became the Head of Diagnostics at Edenbrook

Her high-school superlative was: “Most Ambitious”

She suffers from fear of heights, or commonly known as acrophobia

Once, she bumped into Julia Roberts at the supermarket, and after asking Nyla tons of medical advice, they exchanged phone numbers. She still has her number to this day

Have more questions about Nyla? Feel free to send ‘em to my inbox, or send me a DM!

Main Masterlist

#open heart #open heart choices #choices open heart #tobias carrick #dr. tobias carrick #open heart oc #meet my oc #Tobias x OC #Tobias Carrick x OC #playchoices #open heart fanfiction #oph fanfiction #my OC #Nyla Imani Hassan

[jerzwriter]

ID Cards

From MC Monday (I seemed to have deleted it by mistake.)

Tobias Carrick:

Ah, young Tobias. You could sort of tell the shit he was about to get into by that grin on his Kenmore Intern ID. But randy as he may have been, he was still astute and disciplined when it came to medicine. In no time, he made quite a name for himself in the region.

After one year at Edenbrook, he replaced Ethan as Director of the Diagnostics Team when Dr. Ramsey became Chief of Medicine at Edenbrook.

When Casey's career necessitated a move to DC, he was offered a choice of positions at GWU, where his family had deep roots. Still unwilling to accept any assistance (or the appearance of such) from his family in his career, he turned them down.

He chose to open a private practice and Aurora and Jackie were among those to join his staff. It was a perfect situation with a growing family, and he was happy with the flexibility it afforded.

About five years later, Inova Health (the top hospital in the region) approached him about the Chief of Medicine position at their Fairfax, VA medical center. Although he wanted to pursue it desperately, he feared it would be too much of a disruption to his family's life. He was about to turn the offer down when Casey convinced him they would make it work. He had sacrificed so much to make the move to DC in support of her, she promised they'd do whatever it took to make this happen for him too.

He remained at Inova for well over a decade, but as he began to approach the end of his career, he finally came to accept where he belonged in his family legacy. He oversaw the building of a wing built in his father's name at GWU Hospital and eventually went to work there, sitting on the Board.

Casey MacTavish-Carrick:

Casey remained in Boston after her residency, becoming an attending physician at Edenbrook and continuing her work on the Diagnostics Team.

As she became more involved with her advocacy for equal access to healthcare, she began spending a good amount of time traveling between Boston and Washington, DC.

GWU Hospital wanted to create a diagnostics team and they offered her the opportunity to head up the department.

The idea of being able to create a department from the ground up, and being able to work in DC where most of her advocacy work took place was too enticing, her answer was yes, as long as she could get Tobias to agree.

Initially, he was not keen on returning to the area where he grew up/family remained, but he did not want to put a damper on Casey's dreams, so he agreed and they moved to DC.

Casey led her new department to be one of the top diagnostic teams in the world less than 5 years after its inception.

During her career she remained a fierce advocate for healthcare accessibility, serving on numerous committees and as an advisor to various political think tanks and two sitting US Presidents.

@tobias-carrick-appreciation-week

#tobias carrick #tobias carrick appreciation #day 6 submission #dr. tobias carrick

[tobias-carrick-appreciation-week]

TCAW Day 6: Dr. Tobias Carrick

Edits

ID Badges - @jerzwriter

Fanart with Fanfic

A Unique Blend | Tobias Carrick, Ethan Ramsey - art by @bayleedrawsx fic by @jerzwriter

Fanfics

Learning Curve | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @jerzwriter

On the Run | Tobias Carrick x F!MC - @alj4890

Headcanon

Being a Doctor - @trappedinfanfiction

Dr. Tobias Carrick - @jerzwriter

#open heart #open heart choices #choices open heart #tobias carrick #tobias carrick appreciation week #day 6 #dr. tobias carrick #day 6 masterlist

[jamespotterthefirst]

You & I (1/3)

Book: Open Heart, beyond Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Lilac Allende-Ramsey) Word count: 950 Rating/ Warning: Teen

Premise: Her husband’s colleague seems a bit too interested in him. Dread sets in when they have to go on a work trip together.  

Note: This is based on a really old anon who asked: “has anyone every come between Ethan and Lilac?”

The busy airport moved past them at an unrelenting pace. The clamorous mix of rushing passengers and unintelligible overhead announcements only made his nerves coil tightly. He hated people who were always tardy. Even more, he hated being made late by said people. For the countless time in twenty minutes, Ethan craned his neck over the crowd, his foot tapping impatiently against the linoleum floor.

Beside him, a soft laugh brought him back to the present.

“You don’t have to lift your neck to see over all these people, babe. You’re more than tall enough.” Gentle hands on his bicep beckoned him to look down at his wife’s glowing face. “They’ll be here any minute. Just relax.”

“I am relaxed,” he returned, convincing exactly no one.

Lilac gave him a knowing little smile, patting his arm. “There’s a Dunkin over there. I’ll go get you some tea. That’ll help.”

Ethan reeled back slightly in mock offense. In turn, it made her laugh heartily, the sound feeling like home to him.

“Fine. I’ll get you coffee if you promise to stop fidgeting.”

After a half-hearted promise to try, Lilac disappeared into the crowd. Ten minutes later, he spotted the familiar figure of Tobias Carrick. Even from a distance, Ethan could tell he was grinning broadly, as though being nearly late for a flight was the funniest thing in the world. Beside him was Doctor Heather Finnegan, a prestigious Oncologist at Mass Kenmore. Her ruby lips stretched into a smile at seeing Ethan and her pace quickened.

“Sorry we're late,” she said as a form of greeting. “We hit really bad traffic.

“I'm surprised you haven't pulled your hair out,” Tobias laughed, looking around for an available check-in kiosk. He was fortunate he found one a few feet away and missed the death glare Ethan threw his way.

“And what a shame that would be,” Doctor Finnegan muttered, moving her gaze up to Ethan's hair.

Frowning, he opened his mouth to express his confusion, but a pair of familiar hands fell on his forearm. Lilac had returned, to-go coffee cup in hand. She held it out to Ethan, along with a small paper bag.

“Coffee just how you like it. And since the TSA line looks like hell, I got you an apple fritter.”

Ethan smiled down at his wife. “You should've gotten one for yourself.”

“I did,” she grinned, holding up a second paper bag to show him.

Her excitement was so endearing that he leaned down to kiss the top of her forehead.

“Ah, shoot. I was going to treat everyone for breakfast once we got through security,” Dr. Finnegan said.

“You and Tobias can go ahead. I'll be okay with this.”

“Gotta be careful.  You know what calories can do to a person.” Dr. Finnegan admonished in a lilting tone. A small smile remained as she looked from Lilac back to Ethan. “Plus, all that sugar is horrible for you.”

“The coffee's black. I'll live.”

She laughed, interrupted only by Tobias's distant shout. The young doctor excused herself and joined Tobias at the check-in kiosk. When they were finally alone, Ethan turned to face his wife, ready to tell her just how much he'd miss her.

The frown on Lilac's face, however, gave him pause.

“What's wrong?”

Lilac hesitated.

“Have you ever noticed Heather acts weird around me?”

“Weird how?”

She shrugged.

“I don't know,” Lilac sighed. “She rarely ever says hello to me directly and whenever I'm in the room, she gets serious.”

Ethan frowned but his wife barreled on before he could say anything.

“Normally, that'd be fine. I don't have to be friends with everyone, but there's other things.”

He scrunched his brows, urging any recollection of these instances.

“Take right now, for example,” Lilac pressed on, determined now. “She stiffened when I came back with your coffee. And when she said that thing about calories, her eyes moved to me. I could've sworn she looked down at my stomach.”

“You're pregnant.”

“Yes, but she doesn't know that. No one does yet. And even if she did know, that's completely inappropriate.”

Ethan nodded slowly, agreeing on that point.

“You think she dislikes you.”

Lilac nodded quite solemnly.

“What reason would she have for that? As far as I know, you two haven't interacted prior to my move to Mass Kenmore.”

“Oh, I don't know. Maybe because I'm sleeping with the man she's attracted to?”

Ethan blinked.

“You, Ethan. I mean you.”

“I gathered that.”

Simultaneously, their eyes moved to the blonde doctor currently laughing with Tobias. Ethan looked back at his wife, struggling to read the seemingly neutral expression on her face. He chose his words carefully.

“You might be reading too much into this.”

As he expected, Lilac tensed, taking a step back. Those alluring green eyes he loved so much rippled with surprise and betrayal.

“I’m not imagining things, if that’s what you mean.”

“That’s not what I meant but—”

“You know how saying ‘but’ contradicts everything that came before it.”

“Lilac.”

“Fine. I’m seeing things,” she returned, pressing her mouth into a thin line. “Forget I said anything.”

“Lilac, can we please—”

But his plea was cut short by Tobias’s enigmatic shout, informing him it was time to go. Ethan glanced up in time to see Tobias gesturing toward the TSA line. Heather stood quietly beside him, observing Ethan and Lilac with what appeared to be curiosity.

“I have to go.”

Ethan was reluctant to move, not wanting to leave her side. Lilac’s irritation had dwindled down to silent sadness and somehow, that was worse. Very gently, he leaned in to give her a quick kiss.

“I love you,” he reminded her.

“I love you,” she returned. “Have a safe trip.”

The three words that usually brought him so much comfort did little to appease the uneasy feeling in his gut.

Note: Part 2 is done and will be posted soon! Thank you so much for reading! 

#open heart #ethan ramsey #ethan x mc #playchoices