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ultralightpoe · 4 months

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Full House llll - Eddie Munson

Authors Note: This one is a bit short but I'm starting something and I hope you guys like it.

Word Count: 8,831

Warnings: angst again? but not bad.

Part One HERE.. Part Two HERE.. Part Three HERE.. Part Four HERE..

(Thank you for the gif @lightningcrashes)

Enjoy!

The Johnsons Prison Facility loomed over Eddie, the same shadowy feeling he always used to get when visiting.

Back then, when Wayne had brought him, Eddie had refused to take the man’s hand. His father hated when Eddie held into his mom and uncles hand, used to say it made him look like a baby.

He always wanted to make it seem like he was tough, and maybe…. Just maybe his dad would be proud of him.

But then he grew into his teen years and Wayne stopped coming, too disgusted by his brother, so Eddie was left to deal with his father by himself. And in his teen years Eddie was still trying desperately to get his dads attention but he was more at ease thanks to Wayne.

Now? He held Motleys hand as she stood by him staring up at the building. In her arm she held her school folder with all the research needed for this family tree.

With Eddie’s help, and your information, she decided she would fill in Billys side. And she would add Eddie’s side.

“You ready?” He asks, clearing his throat.

“Are you?”

“If you’re here with me? Always.” He smiles and leads her in. They sign in, putting all their belongings in the bin including his rings. When the officer stops Motley she is forced to put her grandmothers ring in the bin, still on the chain Eddie had made for it.

“It’ll be fine here kid.” The officer smiles. “He used to do that too.”

Johnson’s prison facility was 2 hours away from Hawkins, and they had three main cops that have been here since Eddie had started coming.

He leads them to the cafeteria where 4 guards stand and Eddie takes a seat, keeping Motley pressed into his side as he waits for them to bring in his dad.

10 minutes go by and then he’s there, handcuffed and smiling from ear to ear as Robert Munson is brought to the table.

“Edward.” He greets, waiting for the officer to cuff him to the table. He grunts in pain when the officer tightens it a little too much, glaring up at him. “Hey man. Think you can take it easy? That's my granddaughter there.”

“How did….” Eddie begins to ask.

“Wayne called me a couple days ago. Warned me about how I needed to act. My little fucking brother calling me to tell me to respect my own fucking son and-“ He stops when he sees Eddie’s glare, turning instead to the girl sat beside him. “What’s your name sweetie?”

“Motley.” She smiles.

“Jesus. Still into that rock music bullshit? You named your kid after them?” He laughs.

“He didn’t name me. My mom did.” Motley answers quickly. “She named all of us.”

“How many of you are there?”

“Four.”

“Wow. Someone has stayed busy.” He chuckles, casting a side eye to Eddie. “You let her name all four?”

“The first two I wasn’t there for. The last two I figured she spent 7 hours pushing my boys out that she should get the naming privileges.” Eddie mumbles, tapping his knuckles on the table.

“You weren’t there for the first two?”

“No. I didn’t meet them until Metalhead here was 6.” Eddie smiles at Motley, pushing his head to her forehead which makes her laugh.

“So she’s not yours?”

“She’s mine. She just didn’t come from me.” Eddie says defensively. “Kind of like Wayne and I.”

He watches as his comment sinks in, the man’s face falling a bit as he stares at Eddie before nodding slowly. “You got a picture?”

Motley nods, opening her school folder to pull out the most recent family photo.

Eddie stood in the photo, dressed in a button up and slacks with his hair pulled back into a low bun and you beside him in a nice outfit. Motley stood in front of him, smiling from ear to ear in her own dress with her long hair curled and her newly pierced ears shown. Ziggy stood beside her holding your hand with her hair in pigtails and a dress that cost you three pancakes to get her to wear it. The boys were both in their cute little baby ties, one in your hands and the other sitting on Wayne’s lap.

Wayne sat in the middle, Halen giggling widely as everyone smiled and you could see the happiness in Eddie’s

“Wow. Look at you guys.” His dad murmurs, nodding awkwardly. “That’s a….. you got a good family Wardie.”

“Wardie?” Motley asks looking up at Eddie.

“It’s what he used to call me. Way back when I was growing up.”

“What’s all this for?” He asks, waving his hand to all her papers.

“I’m doing a family tree and I have some questions. If you would be okay answering them.”

“I got…. An hour with you guys so let’s get it done.” He smiles.

The next 40 minutes he talks to Motley about the family, and about his mothers side of the family. Once Motley answers all her questions she closes the folder and stares at him dead on.

“I just wanted to say….. my dad is one of the best. He didn’t have to stay but he did and he’s made my life better. He’s a good man. You should know that.” And Eddie has no clue what to say, neither does his father. Both just blinking at her for a moment as she packs up her folder before shuffling to give him a side hug.

Eddie gets protective, standing quickly as Robert tries to hug back but the cuffs prevent it. “It was nice meeting you.”

“You as well.” She smiles before moving to follow the guard out.

“Edward. If you would wait just a moment.” His dad sighs, and Eddie sits back down. “I…. I think you’re a great man. I always knew you would be and I’m sorry if I- not if. I’m sorry that I treated you the way I did and constantly hurt not only your physical health but your mental health. I’m sober and I’ve come to realize how bad I was.”

Eddie nods, he doesn’t really know how else to respond to that.

“I…. Well I miss you, and my brother. They have family visitation in April and I…. It would mean the world to me- but you don’t owe me anything- if you brought your family. I could make ‘em little wooden sculptures. I’ve gotten good at those.”

“I…. I’ll talk to my wife about it.” Eddie nods. And then Robert is nodding his head to the guard at the door who brings over a small little ornament carved out of wood, a bat.

“Last time I saw ya I saw your bat tattoos. We have shop here so I made that.”

“Thank you.” Eddie nods. “Means a lot.”

“And slowly, with each step rattling the ground beneath the travelers feet, the goblin king was upon them!” Eddie narrates with an excited look in his eyes, making the entire table sit on the edge of their seats.

The party; Lucas, Erica, Mike, Dustin, Gareth, Jeff, and Paul; had collected at the house and Eddie had stolen the dining room for the night and banned the girls from entering or interrupting the campaign the party had been trying to schedule for months.

They obviously started off butt hurt but once you told them you’d let them eat dinner in front of the tv they had gotten more excited about it.

So you had made dinner, and got them set up as Eddie began his campaign.

You sat with the kids on the floor, working on a crossword puzzle as the girls kept their eyes glued to the screen.

Here’s the thing, Eddie told the girls they couldn’t come in but he never exclusively said the boys couldn’t come in. So when Ozzy emerged at the door Eddie gave him a warning look that said ‘back away’ and it always used to work in school. Jocks used to back away from the lunch table easily and theater kids would dash from the drama room quickly.

But Ozzy? Nooooo. Ozzy liked to cause problems and fight against the punishment.

He smiles at his dads warning look and gets a little further in the kitchen as Eddie tries to concentrate on the campaign. “And with an angry roar he reaches a heavy fist out to slam against the ground and ‘BAM!’-“ Eddie slams his fist on the table.

“Bam bam!” Ozzy repeats, hitting the fridge like Eddie had hit the table.

“Yeah dude. Get into it.” Jeff smiles.

“The goblin hits the ground so hard the earth begins to crack and tear beneath you travelers! What will you -Ozzy no.” Eddie doesn’t have time to react as his son dashes to the table and sticks his grubby little toddler fingers out to snatch Paul’s little figurine.

“Hey! Eddie that thing stole my-“ Paul begins whining.

“That thing is my son so watch your mouth.” He warns before snapping his fingers at Ozzy. “Give it.”

Ozzy doesn’t, and when Paul reaches for him he screams out and shakes his head. “NO NO NO!”

“He doesn’t like to be touched.” Eddie explains.

“Don’t touch him.” Lucas snaps.

“Well he-“ and then it happens. Ozzy pulls his hand back and chucks the goblin straight into Paul’s face so hard Eddie gasps.

“OW YOU LITTLE FUCK!” Paul yells, covering the spot leaking with blood.

“BAM BAM!”

You appear in the doorway then, eyes wide as you reach for Ozzy. “I’m sorry guys.”

“Can’t you keep control of the kids?”

“Don’t. You. Dare.” Eddie sneers, finger in his face. “Dude we’ve been planning this night for months and we all have to work around your schedule with your kids. This is insane!”

“Hey. Erica and I have a newborn so it was us too.” Dustin defends, standing up. “And Lucas has away games and Mike is busy with his internship. Gareth owns a bar and Jeff is taking care of his mom. Not all of us have all day and night Paul.”

“Guys. I’m sorry. I’ll get a washcloth for your face and set the baby gate up. Okay? Just get back to your game.” You try, pulling Ozzys hand to lead him out.

“ITS NOT A GAME!” Paul snaps and Ozzy whirls back.

“No yell Mama!” He yells, dashing around the table. Eddie already moving to catch him but before he can Ozzy hits Paul straight in the crotch.

“Oh! Get him Ozzy!” Mike laughs as Eddie lifts his kid by the back of his shirt and pulls him away.

“No yell mama!” Ozzy repeats himself which pulls Ziggy and Motley into the room.

“Who yelled at mom?”

Ozzy answers his older sisters question by pointing straight at Paul.

“Don’t yell at my mom!” Motley snaps and Ziggys face gets red.

“Eddie. Get your kids man.”

“YOU’RE AN UGLY BLOWFISH!” Ziggy shouts.

“PEPPERONI FACE!” Motley adds.

“And you stink!” Mike helps, smiling from ear to ear.

“POOPOO HEAD!”

Paul collects his stuff angrily, cussing under his breath on the way out before slamming the front door harshly.

“Anyone else want to go?” Eddie asks. “Cause I love you guys but my kids and wife are more important. So if you have a problem with them then go.”

Everyone looks around at each other and shrugs, getting comfortable again as Eddie sets Ozzy down. The girls move over to kiss his cheek before dashing back to the tv.

“I do have dessert cooking guys.” You mumble, still obviously awkward as you try to reach for Ozzy. He moves away and struggles to get onto Paul’s empty seat.

Eddie watches as he gets settled, his face just meeting the table.

“No Ozzy.”

“Yes Ozzy.” His son argues. Jesus he looked just like Eddie.

“Oz, come on. I’ll put on Scooby.” You try again and he shakes his head.

“I’m cool if he stays.” Gareth smiles, shrugging. “He seems to be really into it”

The rest of the table agrees and you nod, looking to Eddie to make sure.

“You can stay. But no throwing anything.” He orders and he knows that Ozzy didn’t actually hear a word as he giggles.

You move to leave to the living room but Eddie stands quickly to catch you and give you a deep kiss.

“Enjoy your g….campaign.” You smile, heading back out with the girls and Halen.

Once Eddie starts again Ozzy stays seated which is extremely odd for the toddler, and everytime Eddie makes an over dramatic sound Ozzy repeats it.

Every “Bam” is met with a “bam bam!”, and every “boom!” Is quickly followed by a “BOOOOM!” and the party seems to love it.

Lucas lets Ozzy roll for him, laughing every single time he rolls a Nat 20 to Dustin’s measly 1’s.

And suddenly Ozzy was there every week to watch them play.

(Let me tell you. Eddie’s kids stand on BUSINESS)

The day you both took them to get their vaccines was filled with tricks and lies. Your good parents, you knew how this game was played.

The agreement was if they all behaved during their doctors appointment then they could all get a toy and an ice cream cone.

So they all piled into the car and played nice until you got to the doctors office. Then to make things easier the doctor pulled you all back and you planned on it being easy.

But of course it wouldn’t be easy because the kids saw the needle.

“No no no no no.” Motley begs, her face pressed into Eddie’s abdomen as he keeps one hand on her head to keep her there and the other rubbing her back gently.

“Breathe. It will be okay. Just a second.” He promises, watching the needle go in and holding his breath as Motley tenses with tears sliding down her face.

Ziggy cries, Halen and Ozzy crying too as the doctor congratulates Motley and sticks a bandaid over her arm before handing her a lollipop.

She glares, still crying as she mumbles out “you’re mean,” to the poor doctor and hopping off the table. Eddie gives her another hug, kissing her head before you’re bringing Ziggy up to the table.

She kicks out and screams as you try and relax her, and Eddie does what he did for Motley and shoves her face in his abdomen so she doesn’t have to look.

“Come on Zigs. You got this.” He whispers and the doctor pushes the needle into her arm. She cries out, and once the needle is replaced with a bandaid she is far less forgiving than her sister. “Bitch.”

“Heyyyy.” Eddie warns, helping her off the table to replace her with Halen.

The youngest was surprisingly calm. He whines out at the pinch of pain but the second he has a transformers bandaid on he is distracted and easy to woo.

Ozzy however was not having it. He fought you getting onto the table and he fought Eddie trying to hold him. Finally it got to the point where Eddie had to hold his arms down just for the doctor to go ahead and once it was done and Eddie thought it safe to let go your son took a swing on the doctor.

It hits her in the cheek and Eddie is apologizing immediately as she laughs it off mumbling that it’s not the first time.

You snatch him from the table and pull him out of the room as Eddie continues to apologize, the doctor just waves him off and laughs.

The car ride is silent as you and Eddie both try to figure out what to say. You had reached the point with Ozzy where he wasn’t listening to your warnings or lectures but neither of you wanted to hit him. So you didn’t know what to do.

“That’s it.” You snap, unbuckling quickly and bending to snatch his arm from the seat behind yours and biting down hard enough to make him cry out before pulling back.

“That hurt?!”

“YES MAMA!” He screams.

“Good! No more hitting or biting or kicking!” You yell back. “And everyone but you gets ice cream because you’re a mean baby!”

“NO MAMA!”

“Yes! Now shut the hell up and think about what you did!” Adrenaline is coursing through you and you already feel bad for yelling at him but you turn to face the front and see Eddie trying his best not to laugh.

“You just bit our kid.”

“That’s not a kid. That’s a villain.” You snap.

“Think you can bite me sometime?” He teases and you try not to laugh as you look out the window.

“I think I can make something happen.”

And when Eddie pulls into the ice cream parking lot the other kids all jump out, Halen being grabbed by Eddie as you move to the back to sit with Ozzy.

“Mama please.”

“No.”

“Mama…. Pwease!” He whines, eyes filling with tears.

“You were bad Ozzy. Very bad.” You mumble, reading your book as he pouts and cries. There is a knock at the window and you crank it down to greet your husband.

“Wanted to make sure it was going okay in here.”

“That’s why I sent you in because you cave in too easily.” You sigh, seeing the puppy dog eyes of your husband. “Eddie, he needs to learn.”

“But he’s so young and he-“ you start rolling the window back up, with a roll of your eyes.

“Wait wait. Fine. Okay? He was bad.” Eddie sighs. “But that’s our little man! Look at him.”

You don’t want to because you know you’ll be met with the spitting image of your adorable husband.

“Just…. Come on baby.” Eddie whines and you roll your eyes again.

“I sowwy!” Ozzy sniffles and you feel yourself break under pressure.

“He’s sowwy.” Eddie coos.

“F-fine.” You sigh, moving to unbuckle him and get out of the car. “But I swear-“

Eddie is grabbing him already and you go to sit where the rest were sitting, watching Eddie take him to the counter to choose an ice cream.

When they come back Ozzy moves to sit in your lap, which shocks you because he normally hates that.

He keeps the side of his head on your chest as he eats the ice cream and you’re able to read as Ziggy talks Eddie’s ear off about how brave she was.

“You were brave. All my dorks did so good.” He smiles, leaning to sneak a gummy bear out of her ice cream.

“Daddy!” She whines but he sticks out his tongue which makes her stick out her tongue. Halen tries but he had a mouth full of chocolate ice cream so Eddie is quick to tell him no.

“How is ice cream made?” Ziggys asks and Eddie shrugs. “Am I supposed to know?”

“Yes?”

“I’m supposed to know how ice cream is made?” Eddie scoffs, looking shocked.

“Yes!”

“Then you tell me how babies are made.”

“Mommy makes them. Duh.” She responds like he’s stupid. “Where were you?”

“I can promise you I was right there.” Eddie laughs and you glare which makes him laugh harder, leaning back in his chair to give himself room to cackle.

Halen imitates his cackle which makes Eddie laugh harder until his chair falls backwards and all you can see are his feet flying in the air.

Motley and Ziggy laugh loudly, both rushing to go help him up and you shake your head.

“You’re where Ozzy gets it from.”

“I think I broke my back-“

“Ow. Baby.” Eddie groans, laying face first into the pillow as you climb into bed.

“What’s wrong?” You tease laying down and adjusting the blanket to cover you. You feel his hand reach out as he grunts in pain, looking for you.

“Baby come here.”

“Why?”

“Because we always cuddle!” He sighs, already agitated.

“How am I supposed to cuddle you right now? You’re in pain.”

“Come on….. just. God damn it come here.” He snaps, pulling you in and grunting in pain. “Just need you near. That’s all I want.”

“You’re old.” You murmur, rubbing his lower back a little. “Stay still. I’ll go get the icy hot.”

“Nope! No!” Eddie shouts, dashing after where Halen just escaped from butt naked. “Come here boy!”

Halen merely giggles and when Eddie runs around the corner he nearly collides with Ziggy, jumping over her like a fence. “Sorry sweetie!”

“I’m stealing your-“ he doesn’t hear the rest, zipping after Halen and just managing to catch him before he goes to bother you in the kitchen. “It’s bathtime little man. And it’s also rude to run with your junk out.”

“No bath!”

“Yes bath!” Eddie laughs. “You smell like grandpa Wayne.”

“Heard that!” His uncle calls from the hall. “Thin ice boy!”

Halen and Eddie exchange glances, both wide eyed. “He talking to me or you?”

Halen shrugs and Eddie tries not to laugh at how innocent he is as he dashes upstairs. Only to find Ziggy covered in your lotion.

“That’s it. I’m dead.” He sighs. “Your mother is going to kill me.”

“Okay daddy. I have a plan though.” Ziggy starts.

“…..I might be interested in hearing it.” Eddie mumbles back, Halen wiggling in his arms.

“We don’t tell mommy. I don’t get spanked and you don’t get killed.”

“Seems legit. Hop in the shower and I’ll hide the evidence.” And just like that the daddy daughter duo commits a crime.

By the time you are getting ready for bed he hears you rustling around in the bathroom doing your nightly routine.

“Hey baby?” He calls, scratching the back of his neck. “I need your help.”

The plan was to distract you, whether that be through seduction or just talking your ear off he had yet to figure out.

You come out of the bathroom, raising an eyebrow out to him in confusion as he sits on the bed. “With what?”

“Allllll of thisssss.” He wiggles his eyebrows, using his hand to gesture up and down his body.

“What’d you do?” You snap, hands flying to your hips as you glare.

“What? What do you mean?”

“You only do that cheesy sexual thing when you are hiding something Edward Munson.” You snap, moving closer. First mistake.

“No I don’t!” He scoffs. “I’ve never once in my life done that.”

Yes he had. Once last week when he broke your favorite mug. Twice the week Motley kicked a soccer ball through the back window.

“Are you accusing me of being a prostitute?”

“Prostitution is for money. You’re doing it to make sure no one gets in trouble. What’s the word for that?”

“Protective.”

“Slut.” He gasps loudly at your words, moving forward to snatch you into his arms.

“You wanna see what this slut can do?”

“Yes. Then I wanna know what you did.” You laugh.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea.” You sigh, walking in front of Motley as she follows you around the diner floor.

You were opening this morning, and Motley decided to come with you to try and plead her case before she went to school.

“Mom please.” She whines. “I wanna go.”

“Motley. It’s not a good idea.” You repeat, snatching all the ketchup bottles from the table to refill. Honestly you were done with this conversation, and though you understood why Eddie took Motley in the first place you did not want your kids or your husband attached to that man.

Robert Munson was a plague in memories for your husband and you didn’t want that for him.

But Motley wanted to take Eddie to go see him on family day. And you were wracking your brain trying to figure out what was going on here. Why was your daughter so obsessed with this situation?

“Be fair!” She snaps.

“Take it down a notch.”

“But mom-“

“What’s the deal here, Motty?” You sigh, sitting in a booth to start marrying all the ketchup bottles. “If you’re upset about something you should just tell me.”

“I’m not upset about anything.”

“Yes. You are.” You respond. “Tell me what’s going on here.”

“Do you think…. Do you think Dad misses me?”

“I’m sure he does. He always begs to pick you guys up from school-“

“No. I mean….”

“Oh…. Motley I don’t know. Are you missing him?”

“No. I just wonder if he’s missing me. He’s my dad. He should be right. And if Dads dad can miss him, maybe my father can miss me. You know?”

You don’t know what to say, and you don’t know how to fix this so maybe you should just give in and see if she can sort some of these emotions out herself.

“I’ll discuss it with Eddie. Okay? Now how about you play hooky and miss your first class for a stack of pancakes?”

“Okay.” She giggles, and that was a step in the right direction.

Eddie was tense the morning you got ready for family day, not really saying much as you both shuffled around each other before you had to get the kids up.

You knew he was nervous and stressed and you didn’t know how to help him which was beginning to stress you out. He was doing this for Motley, and you were so grateful for that but you seemed to be pushing too hard.

So, as he sat on the bench at the end of the bed putting on his boots, you took your chance and wormed your way onto his lap with your legs on either side of his hips.

He accepts you with little fight, practically melting at your touch and pressing his nose into your collarbone as you hug him. His hands clutch your hips tightly, and you quickly realize he is doing the grounding technique that his therapist recommended.

“5 things that you can see.”

“Your dress, the sock under the dresser, the throw blanket you claim is important, my bandana hanging on the back of the door, and your purse by the door.”

“Good.” You hum out. “4 things you can touch.”

“You, my jeans, the blanket and your hair.”

“3 things you can hear.”

“The fan in the boys’ room, the water in the toilet run, and Wayne shuffling around downstairs.”

“2 things you can smell?”

“Your perfume and the febreeze.” He’s less tense now, breathing out easily.

“Something you can taste?”

“If you gimme a kiss something tells me that famous cherry chapstick.” He mumbles slowly, nose going up your neck until his lips reach yours. He doesn’t kiss you though, just keeping his lips barely touching your own, breathing into each other.

“Are you okay to do this?” You whisper.

“I…. I’ve done it once with her already.”

“This is different and you know it. And I know you’re doing it for Motley because you’re amazing but I just think this is pushing it a bit.”

“I’ll be fine.”

“Eddie.”

“I’ll be fine. I promise.” He mumbles, finally pressing his lips into your own to kiss you finally. You deepen it instantly, pushing him into the mattress a little from his spot on the bench which makes him smile through the kiss.

When you reach down to unbuckle his belt he hums out, moving to stop you. “We gotta get the kids ready-“

“We got time.” You smile. “And I’m craving it.”

He couldn’t argue that.

Eddie was trying to hide the fact that his hands were shaking and he couldn’t seem to catch his breath, but he was trying really hard to seem cool.

This was for Motley, he could do this again for Motley.

Last time when it was just him and her it was easier. But now, with you and Wayne and Ziggy and the boys. It was going to be too much. Too soon. He really didn’t want his dad knowing all this about his life.

He also didn’t want all his kids knowing this part of his life, the child of a murderer life.

Wayne sat next to him in the car and you sat in the back with all the kids. He kept looking back at you through the rear view mirror, lightening little by little each time you smiled at him.

Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad. He was going in with his best team.

But then the Johnsons Center came into view and all he could feel was dread. This was a terrible idea and he would regret it.

Motley is the first to jump out, holding the card she made in her hand as she waits on the side of the car for everyone else. Eddie had put her hair into two braided plaits and he was thankful she did because now she can’t pull at it to show her nervousness.

The boys both yell out when you try to help them out after unbuckling them and they climb out themselves, Eddie helps them hop down since the little toddlers couldn’t manage that part themselves and Ziggy jumps out at him with a smile.

“You ready?” Wayne asks, helping you shuffle the kids together so you can snatch the boys up. Halen giggles, jumping into Wayne’s arms as Ozzy lays his head on your chest and clutches at your shirt. Ziggy and Motley are both holding Eddie’s hands.

“I’m as ready as I will ever be.” Eddie sighs. “Alright. Let me see everyone.”

Everyone smiles at him, just like they always do when he asks this, and before he knew it he was leading them all into the building. Helping Ziggy and Motley on the beginning of what they needed to give up and helping them through the scanners.

Ziggy giggles when the guard takes his hand scanner and checks her, calling it a lightsaber which makes Eddie laugh.

Motley once again hesitates when giving up her grandmothers ring, but the second it hits the bin the guard gives her a small smile promising to protect it.

Ozzy and Halen are a bit easier, you have to give up your earrings and Wayne his watch but they were soon ushered into the courtyard where other families all sat together having fun.

In the center, sitting at a table by himself, sat Alan looking anxious and eyes casting around nervously. The second his eyes land on the family, a smile splits across his face from ear to ear as he stands and fixes the jumpsuit he was wearing.

He looked nervous, and that made Eddie feel a little easier about everything.

“Hey guys…” he smiles, when they make it to the table. “I am so glad you could make it.”

“Hey Alan.” Wayne mutters, and they stare at each other for a second before Alan holds his hand out to shake like a peace offering.

“Motley, good to see you again angel.” He smiles, holding out his hands for a hug if she wanted. She does, giving him a full hug before sitting down. Ziggy smiles at him, sitting by her sister quickly and Wayne sits with Halen.

You stand by Eddie, allowing him to lead you a little closer by your lower back.

“You must be …..” Alan smiles, reaching a hand out to shake. “My son told me about you a couple years ago when he came to see me.”

“It’s nice to meet you.” You smile, and Eddie feels something pinch in his chest. “You know Motley, this one is Ziggy-“

Ziggy goes to bite you when you place your hand on her head, to which you pinch her cheek. “Then we have Halen and Ozzy.”

“You have a little army.” Alan laughs, watching as you sit with Ozzy. Eddie stands awkwardly with the picnic basket Wayne had carried in, Alan moves in for a hug and Eddie is quick to shake his hand before sitting down with his family and allowing Alan to sit as well.

“They said we could bring food so we did.” He mumbles, opening the basket and beginning to set everything up.

“Thank you guys! This is great. I was beginning to think you might not…..” Alan blanches, anxiety pouring off him.

“Sorry. We all got a bit of a late start.” You explain, smiling in Eddie’s direction slyly.

“I want to know everything. What do you kids do for fun? What’s your favorite animal?”

“I dance!” Ziggy mumbles, snatching a sandwich Eddie had been trying to pass her. “You wanna see me twirl?”

“I would love to.”

“Maybe after you eat.” Eddie mumbles before she can rush to do it. “Once she finds a way to escape the table she can’t ever sit back down.”

“Not true!”

“So true.” Eddie laughs.

“Kid. You’re an everyday Houdini with dinner tables.” Wayne teases, using his fingers to tickle her side which makes her laugh loudly, pushing his hand away.

“Grandpa Wayne!” She whines and Alan freezes, keeping a smile glued on his face. Eddie’s side hurts, the scars aching from the bats teeth.

“She…. They all call him-“ he tries to explain before you’re there to save him.

“The kids missed their grandma and grandpa from my side and I insisted they call Wayne here Grandpa Wayne.” You explain.

“You live with them? Isn’t that right?” Alan asks, looking at Wayne.

“Yes. Little boss pants over here insisted I move in after my hip surgery.” Wayne smiles and you roll your eyes playfullly.

“BIRD.” Halen yells happily, pointing up to the bird flying overhead before bouncing up and down happily and clapping.

“BAT!” Ozzy calls next, pointing to Eddie’s bat tattoos.

“How many tattoos you got now boy?” Alan smiles, looking at his son.

“Oh, Eddie, you should show him your newest one.” Wayne offers. “He’s got the kids' names down his side. It looks great.”

But Eddie blanches, hands shaking as he rubs his side. “Well uh-“

He lifts the shirt slowly, showing the tattoo that has all the first letters of their names and their birthdates by them.

Alan smile falls as he sees his sons side and abdomen, all the scarring there. “Wow….”

“My dad has cool scars!” Motley explains, tracing along the outer edge of one.

“What from?”

“Oh…. Just stuff.” Eddie mumbles out. “We made you some potato salad.”

As soon as all the plates were full everyone began a natural conversation, Alan asking question after question about the kids.

And once lunch was done Alan invites the kids to play some game that they had set up in the courtyard.

“They let anyone with good behavior do this.” He explains as he leads them to the games.

“Yeah? Family day?” Wayne clarifies.

“Yeah.”

“Have you been bad?” Ziggy asks, holding Wayne’s hand as they walk. “Since this is your first family day?”

“No. I’ve been allowed for a couple years. But I just….. didn’t know if anyone would be interested in coming.” Alan answers truthfully. “You remind me of your grandma.”

“I do?” Ziggy smiles.

“Oh yeah. She liked asking questions too. Never stopped.” Alan laughs. “She spent her life wondering new things.”

“Do I look like her?”

“Oh, Zigster-“ Eddie starts but Alan is quick to stop him. “Yeah you kinda do kid. You got her bright eyes.”

Her smile widens and soon enough she was moving to the jump rope game with him close to her.

“This isn’t going bad.” You mumble, watching the girls with Wayne and Alan. “How you feeling?”

“Tense. Pain. Awkward.” Eddie blurts, shuffling Halen around in his arms. “I…. This is not what I imagined.”

“I know.” You mumble, leaning forward to kiss him softly. “But I’m really happy you did.”

“I…..” he trails off, sitting on the benches with you.

“I don’t know how to help Motley with this.” You mumble. “But you’re helping her and you need to know that it absolutely means the world to me.”

“You guys mean the world to me.” He smiles, hand rubbing your knee as he bounces Halen in his lap. “Would you ever…. Allow a supervised visit?”

“For Alan?”

“No. For Billy-“

“No.” You snap out, body physically turning away from him.

“I know. I just think she needs closure-“

“Shut up.” You snap out, standing quickly to go stand with the rest of your group.

Eddie sighs out, chest aching.

The car ride on the way home is silent as all the kids play with the wooden ornaments Alan had made them. Wayne holds the pack of photos you guys had gotten with Alan in his hand and you say between the twins with your arms crossed glaring out the window.

You hadn’t said a word to him since he asked and he was beginning to think he really fucked uo by bringing it up.

Dinner passed in silence and by the time you got the kids ready for bed you both split up to get everyone into bed.

Eddie took the girls, reading them both a bedtime story before taking a moment to pick up the basement lounge area that had been made into their shared playroom.

By the time he makes it upstairs he moves to see if you’re still with the twins, shocked to find that both of them are completely passed out and their starry night light the only source of light in the room.

So he shuffles to the room, finding you sitting on the bench with tears streaming down your face that you keep quickly trying to wipe away.

He shuts the door, moving closer to sit in his knees in front of you.

“I’m sorry.” You blurt. “I don’t know why I’m crying. This is so silly.”

“No it’s not.” He mutters, rubbing your thighs. “Nothing that makes you upset is silly.”

“I just don’t know how to help her with this. I’ve never had to go through it and I hate the thought of him seeing her but she’s gotta have something going on here and I can’t be selfish-“ you begin to rant, taking a deep breath in and moving to hold his hands.

“We can try a supervised visit to see if it helps her. Or maybe we ask to see what she wants.” Eddie offers. “Or maybe we distract her with a trip to Disneyland.”

“Shut up!” Your laugh is watery and you slap his shoulder lightly as he lunges up to kiss you. It’s urgent and strong, and you immediately melt into it as his hands slide up your body to keep you pulled close to him.

“I hate when you’re mad at me.” He murmurs when he pulls away, finger tracing your cheek slowly as he admires you.

“I wasn’t mad at you.” You mumble, pushing his hair out of his eyes. “I just….. it scares me you know?”

“I know. I also kind of sprung the idea on you.” He answers. You both work in tandem, slowly beginning to undress each other, one piece of clothing at a time as you keep coming in for more kisses.

“Did you lock the door?” You whisper, and he grunts out, sliding from the bed to make sure the door is locked before dashing back to you.

The diner you had chosen to meet Billy at was extremely crowded. Which is why you had chosen it.

You sat at a table for 4, with Motley and Ziggy on either side of you as Billy sat across from you. He has an irritated expression, had one the entire time as Motley and Ziggy talk to him about anything and everything they could.

His answers remained short, and the girls were definitely getting hurt by it.

“I got the chicken tenders and there was only supposed to be three but I got five!” Motley explains with excitement.

“Ok.” Billy shrugs, not really caring and taking a bite out of his burger.

Halfway through the lunch they both decided to just talk to you instead which you were fine with, and once he was done eating he put cash down for his own before kissing their heads and heading out.

You stayed sitting there, smiling at the girls as the waitress cleared the table.

“Are you ready for the check?” She asks sweetly. “I’m sure I can get the chef to make you both a free milkshake.”

She winks as the girls sit up happily and you smile back. “We’re actually waiting on my husband and their brothers. They’ll be here soon.”

“Yeah, we had lunch with my biological dad. But my dad is coming to pick us up. He went to some really big store that had lots of game stuff.”

“He plays DnD.” You nod, and the waitress smiles happily.

“I’ll be right back ladies.”

10 minutes later there is a round of milkshakes as the twins munch on a plate of fries while Eddie listens to the girls talk about the lunch.

“I got the chicken tenders and there was supposed to be three but I ended up getting five!”

“You’re absolutely kidding!” Eddie gasps. “The kitchen must have thought you were awesome.”

“Must have!”

“Did you have ketchup or mustard?”

“Both!”

“Atta girl!” He smiles. “I got you something from the store.”

He pulls out a small pouch and hands it to her so she can dig through it, pulling out a set of pink dice. “NO WAY!”

“I want one!” Ziggy whines and Eddie laughs before pulling out a little princess figurine for her.

“Nerds.” You mumble out which makes him give you a toothy grin.

“Daddy daddy daddy!” Ziggy yells excitedly, running up to where Eddie sat on the couch with his reading glasses on, focusing on the pages before him as the girl climbs up to get to him. “Guess what!”

“What?” He smiles, closing the book to turn to watch her.

She pulls her lip back with a finger to show a gap in her front teeth.

“You lost a tooth!” Eddie laughs with excitement. “Oh Man! The tooth fairy is gonna come give you money tonight!”

“I thought she gave chocolate? In the baskets?”

“No zigster. That’s Easter.” He smiles at her. “The Easter bunny does that. Remember? He pooped all over the house?”

The ‘poop’ had been brownies crumbled, rolled up and set along the floor to make it look like the bunny had pooped everywhere. The girls thought it was hilarious and Eddie regretted setting it up everytime he had to drag Zeppelin away from the brownies.

“So she gives money?”

“Always does.”

“How much?”

“A dollar.”

“That's cheap!”

“Ohhhh be careful little one. She might hear you say that and bring nothing.”

“She wouldn’t dare.”

“Oh she would.”

“What a bitch.” Ziggy sighs out and Eddie tries his hardest not to laugh.

That night Ziggy gets 50 cents and a cute little note saying “how rude.”

She was upset. Eddie thought it was hilarious.

(Time change here gadies and lentlemen)

“Babe! Have you seen my keys?!” Eddie panics from down the stairs, rushing around the house to try and find them as everyone upstairs gets ready for the day. “I can’t find them!”

“Last I saw they were on the bannister!” You call down the steps and Ziggy dashes down, bangs and all.

Ziggy was 11 now, and she had gone through a lot of changes. No more pigtails, now she kept her hair down with bangs, and she always had one tiny braid in it that she always tied off with one colored rubber band. Todays was bright green to match her nice little dress for picture day.

“Hey papa.” She greets, dashing past him to get to the kitchen. “Do we have egos?”

“Egos? Yeah. Sometimes. Eggos however, your aunt El ate them this weekend.” He explains while searching his bag for the keys.

“UGH!” His daughter yells, stomping to go get cereal.

“Hey dad!” Motley smiles, entering the kitchen and moving to kiss his cheek.

“Hey Metalhead- absolutely not. Go up and change.” He snaps, shaking his head.

Things had changed with Motley too, and Eddie hated it. Well he loved her but he hated that she had to go through puberty. Why couldn’t she just stay young and adorable forever?!

Gone were the overalls and plaited hair.

Now she styled her hair in all the new trends and styles, she wore tiny skirts and tiny crop tops. Her nails were always covered with a new color every week and the amount of time Eddie asks her to pick up her stupid sandals has gone too far.

Not to mention the amount of makeup the girls have in their bathroom downstairs.

“What?! Dad!” She sighs, already ready to fight for her outfit. Today she had chosen a pair of heeled Mary janes with tights and a really short black skirt. That he didn’t mind, even if he was the slightest bit concerned about the skirt he knew he should be lucky she wore the pantyhose. The shirt she chose however was a no.

“I can see your midriff!”

“So?”

“You raise your hand once and everyone will see your bra!”

“Again, so?”

“Motley Marie.” He snaps and she sighs out, stomping off to go change as you enter the kitchen with a smile.

“Morning handsome.”

“Babe I need my keys!” He panics, kissing you quickly before rushing past. “I can’t be late for work again!”

“Why's Motley mad?” You ask him while helping him search.

“I told her to put on clothes.”

“Why’s Ziggy mad?”

“Out of Eggos.”

“Got it.”

“Morning!” Halen smiles, jumping down the last 7 stairs which makes you gasp out in fear.

“Halen, you know I hate when you do that!”

“Looking for dads keys?” He asks with a shit eating grin that makes you both groan out and rush to the plants left on the banister.

Lately Halen had been in a bit of a….phase? He liked to steal things. But not actually keep them. No the kid liked to steal and hide things just for the sake of it. His favorite spot to hide things happened to be the plants.

So you both began digging through the plants, searching for the keys.

Motley stomps back up the stairs, and Eddie whirls to see what she is wearing. “Better. Thank you.”

“Whatever.” She grumbles out and moves to grab her bag.

“Cute sweater. Now take it off.” You smile, watching her freeze.

“What do you mean?”

“The top that your dad told you not to wear is under it. You think I’m stupid?”

“UGH! This house is so stupid!” She screams, stomping back down the stairs. Her heels hit the stairs with a thump thump thump each time.

“I would have never realized.” Eddie mumbles, before you pull out a pair of silver keys. “AHA! My beautiful wife!”

“Do we have Eggos?” Halen asks, dashing to the kitchen where Ziggy is shoving her face with cereal.

“No. Stupid.”

“You’re stupid!” He snaps, moving to grab the box.

“Those are mine!” Ziggy snaps. “You chose the Frosted Flakes!”

“Just share!” Eddie sighs. “Your mom and I will go shopping later.”

“Hey guys.” Ozzy mumbles, coming into the kitchen.

The boys were 8, and somehow become exact opposites of eachother. Halen kept his hair short and mostly wore flannels and converse. He liked to steal things for whatever reason and was currently hyper fixated on baseball.

Ozzy liked to keep to the baggy long sleeve shirts and black ripped jeans, he had been wearing out his pair of converse for years now and refused to wear the new ones you and Eddie got him. His hair, pitch black, was extremely curly and reached his mid neck. (I’m thinking like Finn wolfhard hair. You can choose though it’s your kid).

He was currently obsessed with Eragon, and Nirvana. Both of which Eddie could support.

Ozzy came in dragging his cello case until you grabbed it from him and set it on the couch. Instead of guitar the kid chose the cello, and Eddie had gotten him a nice black handmade cello.

“You okay pal?” Eddie asks, watching Ozzy scramble to make toast.

“Yeah. I stayed up late.” The kid mumbles.

“Yeah! His reading light kept me up dad!”

Right on cue Motley stomps back up, wearing a form fitting top that didn’t seem much better but at least she’d be able to raise her hand in class.

“Better?”

“Not much but I’ll allow it.” Eddie smiles, leaning to kiss her cheek right as there is a honk out front. “Really? Samantha can’t just come to the door?”

“It’s not Samantha.” Motley shrugs, grabbing her bag and lip gloss before heading out the door.

“Wait what?!” Eddie calls, following her out. “Fucking Aaron again.”

“Dad, don't embarrass me.” She snaps as she gets into the car.

“Hey man-“ Eddie calls, stopping the door before she can close it on him.

“Don’t worry Mr. Munson. She’s in good hands.”

“I don’t want her in any hands!” He snaps out, glaring at the idiot of a kid.

“Dad!”

“Okay. Fine. Just be careful-“ the door is shut before he could finish his sentence and they are off. “Oh I hate this feeling of parenthood.”

“Come on kids. We gotta go!” You call from the door, trying to get them all to the car. Halen dashes for his seat, papers flying out of his backpack that Eddie quickly moves to snatch.

“Halen? Did you do your homework?” Eddie sighs, seeing most of them blank.

“Ozzy did!” Halen smiles. “I’ll copy it when we’re there.”

“That’s not how that works kid.” He warns as Halen buckles up.

“Are you picking me up after baseball practice?”

“Yes. I might be a couple minutes late because Ozzy needs to be picked up from orchestra.” Eddie answers, kissing his forehead.

You load Ozzys cello into the trunk as Eddie kisses Ozzys head and whispers “don’t give your brother the homework.”

“We both know I will.” Ozzy whispers back before pulling out another book.

“Hey papa.” Ziggy calls, walking around the car with her painting kit. “Bye papa.”

“Bye Zig. Good luck with art class today okay?”

“Good like with Jared.” She smiles, making him smile at the memory of his stupid new mechanic. “Who doesn’t know what a wrench is?”

“Bye, love you.” You mutter, kissing him quickly before jumping in the car. “Don’t forget Motley has cheer practice tonight, she’ll be home around 8. I’ll be with Ziggy tonight for parent teacher conferences. If she’s a minute late-“

“Grounded. Got it.” He smiles, leaning down to get an actual kiss. “Don’t forget I love you.”

“Never do.” You tease.

“I don’t get it.” Samantha mumbles, watching Motley through the schools bathroom mirror with wide eyes. “You’re bailing again?”

“I just don’t have time.” Motley sighs, fixing her lip gloss. “I have plans.”

“But we always do friday movie nights.” Sam whines. “Motley-“

“There’s a party tonight.”

“Then I’ll go with you.”

“You weren’t invited.” Motley laughs in her friends face before taking off the shirt she wore over her favorite top and walking out of the bathroom.

On the way out she bumps into Vinny, shrinking a bit at the glare he gives her.

“Munson.” He snaps, shoving past her to get to class.

“Harrington.” She responds, blanching as he flips her off over his shoulder.

Vinny or Vince as he likes to go by now, had grown up quite a bit. Gone was Vinny the nerdy boy that only read and never talked to anyone.

In his place came Vince, the schools valedictorian and the best baseball player they had. He had grown into an extremely attractive man and it didn’t help that he was nearly 6’3.

The thing was? He hated Motley and her friends. Hated them for being bullies because that’s exactly what all her new friends were.

“Harrington?” She calls, swiveling to follow him.

He doesn’t turn, merely keeps walking like he could ignore her. “Hey Harrington!”

“What do you want?” He snaps out.

“There’s a party tonight and I wanted to see-“

“Motley. Are you serious?” Vince snaps, glaring down at her. “It’s DND night.”

“So?”

“Everyone is there for dnd night?” He asks. “It’s tradition.”

“They won’t even notice that I’m not there-“

“You’re dad is never gonna let you go.”

“He doesn’t have to know.” She shrugs.

“Whatever. Just….. leave me alone okay? And have your friends leave my brother alone. He already struggles with his speech thing and you guys just make it-“

“W-w-w-orse?” She teases, laughing at his brother until his glare deepens.

“You know what? I heard my dad talking to yours the other day and he said that you were starting to remind him of Billy. I didn’t see it at first.” He sneers. “I see it now.”

And he’s off again, leaving her in the crowded hallway feeling stupid.

Part Six HERE

(Do we want more? What do we think?"

(Merry Merry christmas!!)

Taglist:: (lmk if you want to be removed)

@dontcrydaddy @valentine-ger @mariamayhemrsmunson @hippiefairy02 @alyisdead @thehuntresswolf @username199945 @peaches-roses-sins @bl1ssfulbaby @friendly-neighborhood-boricua @avenjames-anderson @nodont1 @bethanyzed @caseyqdilla @zooboomanfu @hazydespair @costellation-hunter @vanessav03 @r-a-d-i-0-n-0-w-h-e-r-e @kidd3ath @katzarantos

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emberfrostlovesloki · 7 months

Text

Coffee Shop [Reader x Spencer]

Spencer's picture is credited to @lightningcrashes The other photos are mine.

Prompt: Characters get the same coffee order. They both reach for it at the same time, aka, when the reader and Spencer order the same, oddly specific coffee order, and the reader can see that Spencer is struggling and tries her best to be someone he can lean on. This story is more about Aaron and Spencer’s relationship than anything else and it deals with Spencer’s drug abuse problem (the reader is just kind of there).

Category: Angst/comfort/whump

Word Count: 4.7K

Content Warnings: Depiction of drug abuse (Spencer and Dilaudid), addiction, near overdose, brief mention of Tobias Hackel’s episode, mention of depression (and seasonal depression), suicidal ideation, mention of therapy/therapists, canon typical violence, suicide by cop (unsub), mention of child abuse (in the past), Narcan is given, hospitals.

A/N: I’m going to say a lot here. Please bear with me. I didn’t love how the show handled Spencer’s drug abuse in seasons two and three. It felt like his issues were just “solved” in season three by movie magic. That never sat right with me. So I had the idea for this one shot to provide a possible scenario that addresses Reid’s abuse and Aaron’s response to that problem. This is written as a platonic relationship with the reader. Aaron is acting like a dad to Reid here. I tried to make the depiction of drugs and drug abuse as accurate as possible, but if you see that I am totally off on something, please let me know in a direct message or comment. I’ve never written something like this before so I hope it’s okay. This takes place soon after season 2 episode 17 “Distress.”

If at any time you need to stop reading this story, please do so. My writing is not worth your mental health!

The literal prompt came from @imagining-in-the-margins and her amazing Meet Cute Writing challenge, though this is less of a Meet Cute and more of a possible friendship situation.

Lastly, and on a more positive note, if you liked this story, likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated.

List with all stories

_y/n_ = your name

_l/n_ = your last name

The coffee shop tantalizingly close to _y/n_’s apartment was packed today. Maybe it was because of the rain, or the fact that it had actually started to feel like fall in Virginia, and seasonal change just intrinsically called for a nice warm beverage. _y/n_ would normally dread being in a space this packed, but she’d had a good weekend and there was a soft hum of voices that made her feel oddly secure. She was grateful, however, that she had woken early enough to stand in the line and not be stressed about getting to work on time. As she made it to the front of the line, the barista, Belinda, looked up at her and smiled. “The unusual?” Belinda asked. _y/n_ nodded and said, “The usual, please.” _y/n_ pulled out her card and rewards punch card; she was two drinks away from a free beverage. _y/n_ often found rewards programs a waste, but with how often she found herself at The Press coffee shop, it was a no-brainer. _y/n_ stood by the far wall where there was actually a comfortable space to stand. There lights weren’t so bright and the music was softer as she waited for her drink. Even though it had been a good weekend, she was still tired. The feeling seemed to linger with her. _y/n_ wondered if her seasonal depression was pressing its way back into her life. _y/n_ closed her eyes and added calling her therapist’s office and making an appointment to her mental task list. Over time _y/n_ had learned that letting these emotions of melancholia fester was only a portent of emotional pain in the future.

The sound of her drink being called snapped her back to herself and her surroundings. _y/n_ moved through those also standing and waiting for their own caffeine fixes. When she finally made it to the counter she reached out for her creme brulee late with a double espresso, but she wasn’t the only one who was reaching for the cup. _y/n_ assumed that the man, who looked oddly familiar, was reaching for the cup next to hers. She was wrong. Their hands brushed together as they both reached for the latte and an unexpected warmth ran up her arm. _y/n_ turned to look directly at the slender, tall man trying to get her drink. She cleared her throat and said, “Sorry I think that’s mine.” The man looked down at her and swallowed, before replying, “No, I’m sure it’s mine. Sorry, I’m going to be late for my train.” With that, the man reached forward, took the contested drink into his slender hand, and moved as quickly as he could to the front door. _y/n_ watched him go with her drink and tried to pinpoint where she knew him from. It took a second, but once was out the door she remembered and facepalmed. ‘Of, course,’ she thought. The man lived on her floor at the apartment at the other end of the hall on the opposite side of her unit. She wondered if she would have to will to confront him later. That was if she even saw him. The man seemed to be gone for days, sometimes a full week at a time. In the evenings when she came back from work sometimes he would be going out with his normal shoulder bag. Other times when she was returning late from getting drinks with friends, he would also ride the elevator up with her. In these cases, he had a duffle bag with him. In essence, he didn’t seem to hold a normal schedule.

With the mystery of where she knew the man from solved, _y/n_ sighed and got ready to get back in line. _y/_ knew that Belinda would understand and not make her pay again for a new drink. Just as she was getting in line, the woman making the drinks called out, “Large creme brulee latte with a double espresso.” This stopped _y/n_ in her tracks. She was the only person that she knew who ordered that drink. Was it possible that the man really had also placed the same orderer as her? _y/n_ moved back to the counter and waited a few minutes just to make sure she wasn’t mistaken. When it was apparent that no one was getting that cup, she moved forward and took it from the counter. She looked at the name on the cup and it most certainly wasn’t hers. It read: S. Reid. In the end, it didn’t really matter, she had her drink and it had just been an accident. And now she knew that someone on her apartment floor had the same taste in coffee as her. _y/n_ looked at her watch and realized that she needed to get a move on if she wanted to get to work on time.

That evening the lithe man was nowhere to be seen, as she let herself into her apartment. _y/n_ wondered what she did for a living. As _y/n_ moved inside, she pondered that maybe he was a professor of some sort? Or a public speaker who was required to travel often. The man certainly seemed smart enough for it. When she had overheard his phone calls riding up or down the elevator he always spoke fast and used some of the best cadences she had ever heard. Much of what he had been saying went way over her head. However, as her thoughts turned to who she assumed was S. Reid, she thought about the small changes she had noticed about him over time. It wasn’t like she was spying on him, but his mannerisms and odd comings and goings had drawn her attention. She supposed that he was around her age, maybe a year or two older. When she had first moved in around a month and a half ago and seen him for the first time, she had wondered if she could strike up a friendship with him. It would be nice to have a friend in the building. Someone to gossip with about the loud neighbor across the hall. Or someone to grab their package for them from the mail room fifteen floors down. However over the little time _y/n_ had lived there, she had seen S. Reid change -- withdraw into himself. It reminded her of herself, and how she really just wanted a friend. As _y/n_ set her bag down on the sofa, she pulled out her phone and tapped in her therapist’s office number; she felt like she needed a good cry.

Reid struggled during the next case. Emily’s comments and his own harsh reply were plaguing him like the need for his next hit was plaguing him. The chills and sweating kept him cold much of the time which meant he had to wear more layers which just made the sweating worse. Then there was the irritability at everything from the team to the bright lights and the goddamn fact that he had to roll and shift so many layers of clothes to find his vein to get the needle under his skin. Spencer knew he was taking more each day and knew that it was going to be harder to find the illicit substance without having to go to the same dealer. This was something Spencer had avoided doing up to this point. He hoped that he wouldn’t have to become a ‘regular’ because if word got out, or the ring got busted, there was no going back from there. Even if he did his best to use another name and paid in cash, he just knew it would be the end for him. He could already feel things becoming the end for him. Like it was lurking behind each corner of the industrial warehouses the team was currently investigating. Looking for an unsub that, ironically killed via lethal injection. It would be funny if real people's lives were not in the balance, and yet here he was playing with his own life each time he shot up.

Back at the precinct, Spencer moved quickly to the men’s restroom. The ache in his joints and the inability to sleep knawed at him to the bone. He wanted to trash and scream and curse, and suddenly, before he could stop his hands from shaking while he took out the glass vial and unsteadily pushed a clean needle in, sucking up the pleasure-poison, Reid was in heaven again. The weight that was lifted off his shoulders was so immense that he sank down onto the toilet seat and put the cap on the medicine before he dropped it on the floor. The sound of the door opening and Hotch’s voice asking, “You in here Reid,” had the younger man pulling at his sleeve and hiding his secret in the inner pocket of his shirt. When this was done. Spencer flushed and walked out of the stall trying to look like he was in control. Spencer cleared his throat and said, “Yeah, sorry. I’ll be back in the briefing room in a moment.” Hotch’s eyes found Reid’s wild, frenzied ones, and Aaron nodded. As the Unit Chief made it back outside, he thought about the very difficult conversation he was going to have to have with Reid. Aaron was berating himself for having his youngest subordinate’s drug problem go on so long undressed, and he was going to have to face the consequences of not acting sooner.

The case had ended in as much of a climax as possible. The unsub took his final victim's life and realized that he wasn’t getting out of this without a lengthy prison sentence. Instead of facing the consequences of the law, the man decided to let the cops end him, and he finished his life on his own terms, which was cruel given the fact that those he had killed weren’t given that option. As the plane landed everyone got out and moved tiredly toward the bullpen. The flight back had been awkward. Given Spencer’s new ‘behavior,’ the team was on edge. After what had happened with Hickel and Reid, the team was shaken. Clearly, Spencer was changed. It was as if the team was waiting for other shoe to drop, and the suspense was nearly unbearable. As everyone got into the building, and up to their floor, ready to go to their own homes or apartments, Aaron called Spencer up to his office. Reid stood nervously in the neat space, as Aaron said, “Can we meet tomorrow at three p.m.?” Spencer froze for a moment, knowing this conversation would come eventually. Spence nodded and tried to sound like everything was okay, while internally he felt like his guts were being pulled from his body. He cleared his throat at replied, “Of course, Hotch. See you then.” With their meeting set for tomorrow, Aaron dismissed Reid. As Spencer rode the elevator down to the bottom floor of his building, he wondered if there was anything worse than the concept of ‘tomorrow.’

The meeting time came and Spencer sat down. His heart was pounding in his chest faster than he could keep up with. Aaron sat across from him with his brows pulled together, showing his concern. Reid shuffled in his seat for a moment before Hotch pulled his attention saying, “Reid. Spencer. You know what this is about?” Spencer’s head dipped in shame, indicating that he did and that he wasn’t comfortable having to confront it. Aaron let out a breath asking, “What is it you're taking? Dilaudid?”

After Hankel had been killed the team had gone to the hospital. The doctor at the hospital had explained how Spencer had been drugged with the schedule II drug. There was a serious discussion about how Dr. Reid would need to have a safe place to withdraw and the possibility that addiction could be a problem without careful treatment. Hotch had done everything he could that the medical professional had suggested to support Reid in his recovery. However, Spencer was a grown man, and he couldn’t stop or overstep into his agent's personal life. It became clear early on that Spencer was still using a substance, but Hotch didn’t know what the drug of choice was. Of course, he had an assumption. Aaron’s first instinct had been to protect Reid from the system that would certainly terminate him if they found out about his problems. Now, as Aaron looked over Spencer's sallow, twitchy form, he wondered if he had made a mistake in not just addressing the problem as soon as he had clocked it.

After a long silence, Spencer replied, “It’s the same.” Hotch nodded and said, “I’m sorry Spencer. I’m sorry that I haven’t said anything until now.” Reid’s breathing picked up and he looked over at his boss, asking, “Are you firing me?” And here was the crux of the issue. Aaron didn’t know what to do really. This wasn’t a scenario that he had planned for. Hotch replied, “I’m not sure Spencer. But I think you should take some time off to get some help. I’ll help you if you need.” Hotch was sincere in his concern and willingness to do what he could to get his friend into a better place. Part of Spencer could understand this. The other half of him, the half half-crazed for another high was screaming that he shouldn’t let go of the pleasure the drugs brought him.” All Spencer knew was the BAU. It was security, family, and a place where he could be himself. And part of him, an irrational part of him, felt that now that he had changed, the team didn’t want him anymore.

This part of his brain continued to tease and taunt him and made sure he felt that the reason Hotch was suggesting he get help was because of his capture and torture, not the fact that he was using illicit substances on the job and putting the reputation of the whole team on the line. Spencer said, “I can do this job Hotch.” Reid was pleading, and Aaron could see the panic in his eyes and said, “I’m not saying you can’t. I just think you need some time. What happened to you was traumatic, and I think you’re still dealing with the long-term effect of that.” Spencer felt like his world was crumbling, and he couldn’t see that Hotch wasn’t letting him go, or even judging him, just trying to reach out.

Since taking Dilaudid, Reid was finding it harder to keep control of his words and emotions. He would say things unbidden, as he had with Emily. He could feel it happening again. He tried to strangle the words in his throat, but they came out, harsh and piercing, “Just because your father took drugs and beat you doesn’t mean that I’m going to start doing that with anyone.” The words hung in the air for a second, Spencer could see the hurt in Aaron’s eyes at bringing up and using such painful memories to him. However, after a second, the emotion was replaced by disappointment and concern.

Spencer took a breath and murmured, “Hotch, I…” Aaron filled in the blank and said, “I know. I know you didn’t mean that. Please, Spencer. I’m worried for you. Let me put in the paperwork for a leave of absence. Just for a week. I can email them to you and all you need to do is sign and send them back.” Wordlessly, Reid nodded his head, swallowing the lump that had lodged itself in his throat. For the first time that day, Spencer felt the great care that Aaron was showing him. He put his head in his hands and began crying, sucking in air between sobs. The fact that Aaron was willing to actually say something. To address what he was doing hurt, and he felt shame for doing what had. But Hotch wasn’t showing shame or embarrassment in his expression, just care. Hotch stood from his side of the desk and moved to Spencer, placing a hand on his shoulder to provide a comforting touch. Reid turned into Hotch’s touch and eventually, the sobbing abated. Hotch pulled back and said, “We’ll help you with this. I promise. I want to see you back here at your best, and I recognize that hard, and it takes time. But I think it’s worth it if we can have you helping us at your full ability again.” Spencer nodded and said, “Thank you, Hotch. I’m sorry.” Aaron nodded his head no and replied, “Don’t be sorry. We’ll work through this together.”

There were a few more minutes of conversation between the two men. Spencer agreed to what Aaron had suggested and he left Hotch’s office feeling better. The feeling didn’t last. It had been over six hours, and he was starting to feel the urge again. By the time he got back to his apartment, the feeling was overwhelming. Aaron’s supportive and encouraging conversations warred with his need to be free from all his feelings and concerns. The shame and need bubbled up in him as he walked with an urgency to the men’s restroom at the lobby of his apartment complex. It hurt like a brand to not even be able to make it up to his room to find release. Spencer slumped against the wall as he let the drugs enter him. He hadn’t even looked carefully as he inserted the dosage into his body. For a moment everything stilled and nothing mattered. Reid was grateful that the lobby was mostly empty, as he got into the elevator and rose to his floor. The lights from the city blurred as if he had permanent astigmatism. It was beautiful, but dizzying to look at. As the elevator doors opened, Spencer stumbled to the end of the hallway. He made it past one of the other residents on his floor and to his front door. He reached into his shoulder bag for his keys and found the cold metal under his fingers. Reid pulled his keyring from his bag and attempted to fit the metal into the lock. He attempted the simple motor function twice but missed both times. He suddenly felt dizzy and weak and felt his body lean against the door as if it weren’t his own.

_y/n_ watched as her odd floormate, who apparently got the same coffee order as her, moved out from the elevator. She noticed that he was not well, as he stumbled past her. He just nearly avoided running into her. One of his sleeves was up, and she could see for the first time the puncture wounds and bruising in the veins of his left arm. _y/n_ bit the inside of her mouth. Somehow S. Reid had never seemed like the type to engage in drug use. However, she realized that anyone could be struggling with anything, no matter what they looked or acted like. She had seen her fair share of pain and loss due to substance abuse. It seemed that no matter where she found herself. the impact that The War on Drugs and The Opioid Epidemic was never far from her door. But it was never far from anyone’s door given the impact and dramatic spike in desire for drugs over the past decade. When the soft sound of metal hitting the carpeted hallway got to _y/n_, she looked over and found the man slumped against the door. His face was pale and his breathing shallow. Given what she knew about the man now, she felt that something really bad was happening. _y/n_ rushed over to him and said, “Hey, can you hear me? Are you alright?” In a non-lucid state, Spencer made a soft nondistinguishable noise. _y/n_ picked up his keys and unlocked his door. She found the light switch and then helped the man to a chair. His eyes were bloodshot and pupils were retracted so much that they nearly looked like a pin point. _y/n_ knelt down and said, “Hey, Reid, is your name Reid? Can you talk to me?” At hearing his last name, Spencer seemed to find some awareness but not much.

_y/n_ had seen this type of behavior once before and that time it had been too late. She wasn’t letting this man go too. _y/n_ rushed to her own apartment and found the drawer she was looking for. With the nasal spray in hand, she moved back to the man’s apartment. She helped Reid to the floor. At this point he was barely breathing. Looking over him, _y/n_clearly said, “I’m going to give you a dose of Narcan, and I’m going to stay with you until help arrives.” Reid gave no response, nor did he say ‘no’ to what she said. With this in mind and the fact that it was clear that he was overdosing, _y/n_ took the cap off of the Naloxone and moved the applicator into the man's nostril. _y/n_ pressed the trigger. After the medication was inside his system, she moved him into the recovery position so he could breathe better. Next, _y/n_ called 9-1-1. The paramedics arrived quickly and because _y/n_ had been the one who had found him, she went with them to the hospital to give any information she might have. This wasn’t how _y/n_ had planned on spending her Thursday night, but it was worth it if her neighbor would live. She would do it again in an instant. After twenty minutes, the hospital administrator found Spencer’s emergency contact.

Hotch was in bed when he got the call. He picked up the phone and said, “Agent Hotchner. Who is this?” When he heard the response on the other end of the line, he was up in an instant. He pulled on some sweats and a shirt and he was headed to North Central Hospital in under five minutes. Hotch moved to the reception desk. The nurse sitting behind the desk asked for his name, and Hotch said, “Aaron, Hotchner. I’m here for Spencer Reid. I’m his emergency contact.” The woman nodded and looked in her system before saying, “Yes. Good. Mr. Hotchner, Dr. Reid is with the doctor right now, and we’ll send the doctor out to give you updates. If you like. you can sit in the waiting area.” Hotch nodded and asked, “How was Dr. Reid found?” The nurse looked at him and said, “A woman in his apartment found him and administered aid. She’s actually sitting on the far wall.” Hotch looked over and saw _y/n_. Briefly, he turned back to the nurse and said, “Thank you.” Aaron was worried and scared for his friend. After the conversation they had earlier today that seemed to have gone in a positive direction, Spencer’s problem seemed to have come to a head in a more public fashion. Hotch considered that keeping Spencer’s problems ‘in-house’ versus having it be public was better or worse. But in the end, it didn’t matter. None of it did as long as Spencer was okay. Aaron wished he could do more than wait for news, but there wasn’t. He had refrained from calling the team apart from Rossi and Derek. He felt that the fewer people that knew about this right now, the better it might be for Spencer’s career.

Aaron moved next to the woman who had found Spencer, and she looked up at him. She seemed concerned. She had been picking at her nails and looking at the door that headed to the ER. As Aaron approached her, he said, “Hi. My name is Aaron Hotchner. I understand you found Spencer Reid at his apartment? I’m his friend? Thank you for getting him help” The woman was relieved to know that there was someone there for her neighbor. She stood and extended her hand saying, “I’m _y/n _l/n_. I’m sorry your friend is going through this.” Hotch nodded and took a seat next to _y/n_ who also sat down. Aaron turned to look at _y/n_ and asked, “May I ask what happened? Where did you find Spencer?” _y/n_ replied, “I was headed into my apartment, and Spencer was trying to get into his unit as well. He didn’t look well, and I noticed the marks on his arm. He kind of fell forward and I went over to see if I could help. I noticed the signs of overdose and did what I could to help.” Aaron nodded and said sincerely, “Thank you for that.” Hotch was deeply grateful that someone had been around to help Spencer when he needed it this woman hadn’t acted as a bystander but actually did what she could to help. Aaron saw so many people just walk by when people were in distress in his job, and knowing that there were people willing to stand up and do something gave him a tiny bit of hope in this terrible situation. They continued to speak briefly before a member of the staff let her know that she could leave. Before _y/n_ went, she gave Aaron Spencer’s keys and asked if she could give him her number and that if he would text her if Spencer was going to be alright? Hotch agreed and took down her number. He thanked her once more and as she walked out the door, he could see Rossi coming into the bright, fluorescent-lit hospital space.

_y/n_ called a cab and as she moved back toward her apartment. The lights on the streets glistened and cast colorful shadows on the puddles on the road. It had just recently rained. _y/n_ sat back and thought about how ugly and cruel life could be. What taking drugs could do to a person. The face of her floormate's friend came to mind at how concerned he had looked. Sometimes the media liked to make drugs look fun, sexy, and a good time, but that just wasn’t the reality. Sherlock came to mind. The man was a genius and an addict and people loved him! And what wasn’t to love? Because the show never really gave the audience the chance to see what those substances he took would do to a man like Holmes. Then there was Euphoria and its teen angst and bisexual lighting, and even if the show got the drug part right, it didn’t change the fact that the world looked beautiful and that every character was hot. Reality was much, much, sadder. As _y/n_ thought over her own lived experience she hoped that Spencer would get better. Now that she had had this interaction with him she would be sure to get to know him if she could. So he knew there was at least one person in his building that was there for him if he needed it.

Back at the hospital, Aaron talked to Rossi about what to possibly do for Reid and the team. After another twenty minutes, the doctor came out and told both men that Spencer would be alright. That he had made it. After the doctor had given them the relevant information, a nurse led him back to Spencer’s room. Reid looked up from his bed and the shame painted over his face. As Hotch stepped forward, he saw how ragged Reid looked. Spencer could only manage to say Aaron’s name before he turned to look away. Aaron pulled up a chair and sat down saying. “I know Spencer. I’m right here.” And he would be there, and so would the team. The future looked murky right now, but Hotch was going to fight for Spencer. Fight for him to be on the team and for him to be well. Because Spencer was the smartest person he knew, and he cared deeply for his friend. He was going to do everything he could to keep him in his life.

#criminal minds #fanfiction #spencer x y/n #dr spencer reid #spencer reid #reader x spencer reid #spencer angst #whumptober #whump #read the warnings #drug abuse #derek morgan #emily prentiss #ssa aaron hotchner #reader insert #criminal minds x reader #spencer comfort #hotch is a dad #spencer's drug problem

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