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lucy-268 · 2 years

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Birthday Surprise

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Lilac Allende

Characters: Marchia Bisognin; Natalie Cusack; Jillian Valentine; Genevieve McClure; Casey MacTavish; Cassie Valentine; Charley Valentine; Victoria Clarke; and Brooke Spiers

Ratings: T

Warnings: None

Word Count: 3,160

Author’s Notes: Bree, we love you and want to wish you a Very Happy Birthday. This was a joint effort between: @a-crepusculo; @bex-la-get; @danijimenezv; @genevievemd; @jerzwriter; @liaromancewriter; @lucy-268; @potionsprefect; and @writer-ish

Birthday Surprise

Prologue

Dr. Ethan Ramsey had many talents; planning a birthday party for his partner, Dr. Lilac Allende wasn’t one of them. As much as it would hurt his ego to ask for help, she was more important. So, he found himself seeking assistance from the unlikeliest of sources: Dr. Casey MacTavish who was a close friend of Lilac’s and his teammate, Dr. Tobias Carrick’s girlfriend.

Casey, of course, took over and the idea of a simple birthday dinner snowballed into a surprise birthday party on the eve of the medical conference that Lilac was speaking at close to home. Before Ethan knew it, Casey and a flock of eight other women, all esteemed doctors from around the country that would be in town for the conference, took over the celebration.

Ethan had certainly heard Lilac mention them all before; apparently, they were all founding members of Future Women Leaders in Medicine, so they couldn’t really be bad, he thought. Right?

The ecstatic expression on Lilac’s face when she saw them after walking into the restaurant where the party was being held had certainly allayed his concerns. But the way they shared secret smiles with each other and spoke in code, told him that it was going to be an interesting night.

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Charley Valentine was having a conversation with Casey when she noticed that Genevieve had stopped talking and was smiling towards the doorway. Charley turned her head to see what, or rather, who had caught the other doctor’s attention.

She smiled and grabbed a glass of champagne and headed towards the door. Lilac was standing just in the doorway next to Dr. Ethan Ramsey, who was looking just a little bit satisfied that he had managed to keep this a surprise from Lilac.

Charley hugged her friend. Lilac hugged her back and pulled her to the side. “Except for Casey, you all said that you weren’t able to get away!”

Charley laughed. “We wouldn’t miss the chance to see your speech tomorrow! It was so convenient that it fell right in line with your birthday!”

Charley handed her the champagne and turned to Ethan. “Sorry, I didn’t pass any Scotch on my way over.”

Charley led Lilac away from Ethan and towards the other eight women who were all smiles and laughter.

One of them called out, “You didn’t think we’d miss this, did you?”

Charley tapped her glass.

“Now that we are all here, I’d like to propose a toast to Lilac. Youngest Director of Diagnostics at Edenbrook. First one of us to be asked to present the keynote speech at a major conference. I’ve been in awe of you ever since I read about how you stood up to big pharma in your intern year, and I’ve loved sharing ideas with you for the past few years in FWLM. Thank you for all you do.”

Lilac hugged her and Charley looked around. “Who’s next?”

Silence permeated as the group of intelligent, fearless women, all masters in their field, looked at each other awkwardly and then — horrors — even giggled slightly. Apparently none were immune to the possibility of a little bit of stage fright.

“Oh, for Pete’s—” A tall redhead looked up from her phone and shook her strawberry waves. “Guess it has to be me, then, amiright ladies?”

Lilac caught eyes with Dr. Brooke Spiers, colleague and friend, and bit her lip as she held back a smirk, accompanied by a mock-disparaging headshake.

“Didn’t think you’d ever be one to say no to being the center of attention,” she called out as Brooke strode to the front of the group, wobbling only slightly in her heels.

Ethan, who agreed with his girlfriend’s assessment of the...outspoken Dr. Spiers, only snorted.

“You know me,” Brooke responded with a wink, holding her champagne glass high. “This is to Lilac. My first friend at Edenbrook during that tumultuous intern year—”

“—Yeah, until you ditched me to fast track to your cardiology fellowship—”

“—I said first friend, not last or only; god you’re a needy bitch.” Brooke paused as the room laughed at her snarky candor, Lilac the loudest of them all. “Also, I don’t think the words ‘fast track’ and ‘cardiology fellowship’ have ever been used in the same sentence, but thanks for the vote of confidence, babe.”

“Anyway,” she looked pointedly at Lilac, “what I was saying was, there is no greater gift in my mind than being able to toast this ultimate gem of a woman. The best and brightest in your field, the better half of one of the greatest medical partnerships known to man—”

Ethan rolled his eyes but, as he couldn’t dispute Brooke’s assessment, he simply pulled Dr. Allende closer instead.

“—and the most loyal and amazing person I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing.” Brooke smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with mirth and affection. “Love you, girl. Thanks for all you’ve taught me and all you continue to do to have my back. To have all our backs.”

She raised her glass up in the air. “To Lilac!”

“To Lilac!” the room echoed, a unanimous affirmation of Brooke’s words, as the toastmaster in question downed her glass of champagne in one gulp, the other arm wrapped around Lilac, who had come in for a quick, grateful embrace.

“Alright!” Brooke turned to the group as she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, one arm still around Dr. Allende’s shoulders. “Next?”

“Eh-hrm,” a young woman with cascading, blonde hair caught everyone’s attention as she got up from her seat and sauntered to the front, taking her place where Brooke had stood previously. “I have a few words for our dear friend Lilac.”

An impish smile on Lilac’s lips grew wider while she gazed affectionately at her fellow friend, Dr. Marchia Bisognin.

“That’s my girl!” the birthday girl exclaimed loudly, hands clapping, unable to contain the tender pride expanding in her chest. Three years ago, Marchia wouldn’t even be able to stand in front of two people, let alone a small crowd. Yet, now, she found confidence, poise in herself—all thanks to Lilac.

“When I met you at that World Health Summit, I knew you were bound to get me into some trouble, babe,” Marchia shrugged, words laced with a hint of amusement, allowing a sheepish grin to spread across her face. “And I bet you’re going to get us into some shenanigans, too, tonight!”

A tide of uproarious laughter escaped the flock of beautiful women once again.

“But all of us wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you, my dear,” she continued, a warm smile trembling to be released. “So, let me raise a toast to one of the most inspiring, brilliant, and thoughtful individuals I have ever known, Lilac Valentina Allende.”

Everyone cheered as Marchia raised her own glass, glittering under the golden light.

“May your life be filled with love, happiness, and of course,” she paused for a moment, a mischievous gleam evident in her eyes. “Lots of incredible, mind-blowing sex, because Lord knows you’re insatiable, babe.”

Lilac laughed out loud, while her handsome companion—the ever-stoic Dr. Ethan Ramsey—tried to hide the flush spreading across his cheeks that threatened to embarrass him.

Marchia approached the brunette doctor, lips curved into a beaming smile. Bodies crashing in an overjoyed hug, she leaned into her and added, “We all love you, babe.”

“Alright, who wants to go next?” Marchia asked, looking back at her friends and associates.

“Now that I’ve had a drink and I’ve loosened up a bit, I will.” Victoria stepped forward as everyone chuckled.

“This could take a while.” Lilac muttered.

“I’ve kept it short and sweet,” she quipped. “The first time I met Lilac, I nearly didn’t make it to the conference as my alarm didn't go off. I was running super late and only made it when someone held the door open for me to get into the lecture hall. It’s fair to say Lilac found it amusing which is why we sat next to each other and since then it’s been nothing but laughter and smiles.”

“You are the funniest and nicest person I’ve ever met and I’m so glad I am able to call you my friend. I can’t wait to move to Boston next year with Ben and I’m so excited that we’ll be in the same city. And Ethan, if you ever hurt her, just know that you’ll have to deal with all of us. Cheers!” Victoria raised her glass smiling.

“Wow, that really was short and sweet.” Lilac laughed.

“I don’t make promises I can’t keep.” Victoria laughed. “Who’s next because I really want to get started on that buffet.”

“I’ll go,” said a young woman with bright red hair.

Natalie stood up, grabbing a nearby glass of champagne as she began her speech.

“First of all, happy birthday, Lilac. I hope this one, followed by every one after, is memorable and full of happiness! I’m so lucky to be surrounded by some of the most incredible women I’ve ever met. And, while I already knew Gen, Casey, and Charley from school, I never would have met everyone else if it hadn’t been for Lilac bringing us all together.”

“Lil, you light up every room you walk into and you’re the most badass bitch to ever walk this earth.” Natalie raised her glass towards the birthday girl. “I’m so proud of you and I’m so grateful to call you my friend. Happy birthday, babe. To Lilac!”

Everyone else followed suit, echoing her sentiments with their glasses raised in Lilac’s direction.

“All right, who’s next?” said Natalie.

“I’ll go!” Another blonde stepped forward, holding her glass high in the air.

“My dear friend, it’s truly been an honor to know you and watch you become the amazing doctor you are. I remember the first day we met, when Patrick introduced us when I went to visit him at UCLA. He said ‘I know you two will get along great’. Which I admit, I wasn’t completely convinced, because you were so outgoing and confident. I was the opposite. But, he was right. A shock, to us both I’m sure. Because when is he ever right?”

Genevieve giggled, causing Lilac to laugh as well. A knowing smile on both their faces.

“And I’m glad he was. Because knowing you has changed my life for the better. You’ve taught me so much, inspired me with your bravery and strength to never give up. And I thank you for that. So today of all days, I am so happy to celebrate you, Lilac Allende. Happy birthday!”

Gen tilted her glass towards her friend, smiling brightly.

“Okay who wants to go next? Because if I keep talking I’ll start crying.”

Dr. Cassie Valentine was too busy flirting with her fiance, Jackson, to notice her friends looking at her with amusement. If it hadn't been for Brooke loudly clearing her throat behind her and Casey tapping her feet to capture her attention, Cassie would have missed the entire point of the evening.

Glancing sheepishly at everyone, she stepped up to join her friends near the front of the room, grabbing a glass of champagne on the way.

"When my fellow Hopkins alum Vic first told me about Lilac and how she'd make a great co-chair for the Future Women Leaders in Medicine initiative, I was skeptical," she said, shrugging her shoulders.

"Sure, I'd heard about her exploits as an intern and her appointment to lead the famous Edenbrook Diagnostics team. But internal medicine always thinks they understand the human body better than psychiatry does the mind, so I kept my counsel. However, one meeting was all it took for me to realize that she is everything that people said she was, and a whole lot more than they can even fathom."

"She would be perfect," said Cassie with a laugh, "if only she'd realize that running actually is good for you rather than complaining endlessly about it. I love her anyway and couldn't ask for a better co-chair. To Lilac and defying expectations, one giant step at a time. Happy birthday, babe!"

With that, Cassie raised her glass in a salute and smiled at the woman whose lifelong friendship she’d treasure forever.

“Jill, Casey?” she asked, glancing at the two women left. “Which one of you wants to go next?”

“I’ll go.” Jill grinned radiantly and walked confidently to the front.

“Jesus Christ,” Ethan muttered under his breath. Jill was like the little sister he never wanted, so he could only dread the kind of speech she had prepared.

Jillian ran a hand through her ginger bronze hair as she joined the group of women, took a deep breath and faced the crowd with grace.

“When I came to visit Ethan all those years ago, the last thing I expected was to see him completely enraptured by an intern. I had known Ethan for years, and the Dr. Ramsey I saw was nothing like the one I knew. It was like I was staring at the best version of his grumpy self. Because that’s what Lilac did to him, she brought out his best. They weren’t together then, but I clearly remember thinking, ‘I have to get to know her’. Of course, Ethan being Ethan tried to prevent it, but he should’ve known most of the time I get away with what I want.”

That earned a few half-hearted laughs among the crowd. Even Ethan’s lips were slightly curled upwards, “I hate you.”

Jill smirked, but refrained herself from teasing Ethan further. This was for Lilac. She shook her head softly and focused once again on her speech for her friend.

“The moment I met Lilac, everything just clicked in my mind, it all made sense; I understood why my brother’s best friend was so floored by her, and honestly, so was I. With her quick wit and undenying charm, Lilac has a warm aura that just pulls you in, whether you’re a patient, a colleague, or a stranger; she has a way to make everyone feel cared for. Along with her brilliant mind, she has a heart of gold.”

“It’s been an honor getting to know her professionally, but even more personally, and I feel so grateful for her,” the ginger-haired doctor sent her a dazzling smile, “Lil, my darling, you’re one of the best things to ever happen to all of us. You made us a family, one that I would never change for anything in this world. Without you, I wouldn’t have met these wonderful ladies, and none of us would be the women we are today. You’re an inspiration to all of us.”

“So, on this day, I want to toast to you, to celebrate all that you are, in all your wonderful glory. Here’s to Lilac Allende, the most brilliant and promising doctor her age, and the best friend a girl could ask for. I hope we get to celebrate by your side many years to come. I love you, Lil. Happy birthday,” Jill raised her flute and took a demure sip.

“Jill, amiga!” Lilac pushed through and gave her a huge hug, the gesture speaking enough for both of them.

“That wasn’t so bad,” Ethan looked relieved.

“Figured I would save the humiliation for your birthday,” Jill winked at him, causing him to scoff. “Besides, this is for Lilac, not for you. Wait for your turn, old man.”

“Hilarious,” he rolled his eyes.

“Don’t call victory yet,” Jill whispered, pointing covertly to the last blonde. “Casey still can. And you know she’s the… wildest of us.”

Liliac stretched her neck to survey the room, she raised an eyebrow and smirked when she caught Casey, giggling at something (likely inappropriate) her boyfriend Tobias was whispering in her ear.

“OK, MacTavish, can you save that mierda for later and get on with honoring me?” Liliac winked, “Some of us want to get to drinking and dancing, girl.”

Embarrassed, Casey jumped up from her seat, straightening her dress as she made her way to the front of the room.

“Hey, they were just saving the best for last,” Tobias heckled.

“Oh, Jesus, she’s not going to let him speak, is she?” Ethan grumbled.

Both women looked at their partners and all laughed when they playfully chided “Shut up!” at the same time.

Casey looked at Lilac and smiled, “We’ve gotta keep them in line!”

Lilac raised her glass and smiled, “You know it!” she said before downing her glass.

“Hey, wait! We didn’t finish the toast yet!” Gen called out, a half-filled champagne glass in her hand.

“She’s the birthday girl, she can do whatever she pleases,” Casey winked, “but, uhm, waiter, can we get a refill over here… for her? Thanks.”

“Anyway, I met Lilac poolside, during a conference in Key Biscayne our last year of med school,” continued Casey. “I remember thinking, who is this woman trying to one up me in that hot red bathing suit she had going on? But I didn’t actually meet her until we both made our way up to the bar to get one of the Penicillin cocktails they had lined up…”

She shrugged. “Hey neither of us named it… we thought it was tacky too.”

“Back to the story, some obnoxious man saw us approaching and he ran over and grabbed one of the two remaining drinks just before we arrived. We stared at each other, torn between our good-girl sides that were telling us to be polite, and our ‘I’m a broke med school student here for the free booze’ sides that really wanted to fight the other for the drink. Fortunately, a very handsome bartender named…”

“Miguel!” Lilac yelled.

“That’s right!” Casey laughed. “Miguel came up and said ‘Don’t worry ladies, there’s more where that came from.’ He placed a tray before us and walked off. Lilac and I looked at each other and, at the exact same time, said, ‘You take the drink, I’m going to get him’.”

All the women hollered at the punch line.

“That’s right!” Lilac laughed.

“Well, who won?” yelled Tobias as Ethan covered his face with a groan.

“That’s not the point,” Casey smiled.

“Ah, that means Lilac won,” Tobias winked.

“Oh, Jesus, Christ…” Ethan sighed.

“It’s OK, babe, it was a long time ago,” said Lilac, patting his knee.

“Be that as it may,” interrupted Casey, “That was the day I knew I met an exceptional woman. Someone who knew when to be serious, knew when to have fun, someone who knew right from wrong and was going to fight like hell to make this world of medicine, the world itself, a better place.”

Casey raised her glass.

“Since then I have been proud to call her a colleague, but it is an even bigger honor to call her a friend. So, ladies and gentlemen, if you would please raise your glasses to the woman, the doctor, the legend… Lilac.”

We want to wish you a very happy birthday, Bree!! @jamespotterthefirst @messrprongs

@choicesficwriterscreations; @openheartfanfics

#birthday fic #open heart #ethan ramsey x f!mc #ethan and lilac #marchia bisognin #natalie cusack #jillian valentine #genevieve mcclure #casey mactavish #cassie valentine #charley valentine #victoria clarke #brooke spiers

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openheartfanfics · 2 years

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OHFFs Advent Calendar: Day 11

Christmas Through Your Eyes

Submitted by: @jerzwriter

Book: Open Heart (Book 2)

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x MC (Casey MacTavish)

Rating: General

Category: Holiday Fluff

Summary: Trying to help Casey recover after the attack, Tobias treats Casey to a very special Christmas surprise. What he did not expect was to find the spirit again himself.

Warnings: None

A/N: This fic is part of Open Heart Fan Fics Advent Calendar. A big thank you to Dom and all the mods for hosting this event. A/N 1: This is part of my headcanon for T&C. It is their first Christmas together, although they are just friends at this point. It is a little long, but it is seriously sweet and fluffy. I hope you enjoy it! This is the song that inspired this fic: Christmas Through Your Eyes.

CHARACTERS BELONG TO PIXELBERRY STUDIOS

He rubbed his hands together as he walked to her apartment door. His gloves were no match for the cold today. Casey wanted to walk to Faneuil Hall to take in the Christmas decorations, but he hoped she had changed her mind considering the forecast. He knew of a lovely café in Concord, and they could sit by the fireplace and talk for hours and, most importantly, they’d be warm. But these days were about her, so whatever she chose, he would do, even if it meant hypothermia.

The sound of him knocking on the door reverberated down the hallway. He smiled as he heard the lock click open, expecting to see her on the other side, but there was Jackie instead.

“Pleased to see you too,” she said sarcastically, stepping aside to let him in. “Are you here for your weekly custodial visit?”

His eyes narrowed. “Really, Jackie? I can appreciate a good wise-ass more than the average person, but really?”

“OK,” she relented, “that was uncalled for, and I didn’t mean anything by it. In fact, I’ve been impressed. I have to admit, she looks forward to seeing you, even on her more difficult weeks, and she always perks up when you’re coming. So, thanks.”

“Wow, Dr. Jackie Varma, going soft on me?”

“Screw you, Carrick.”

He chuckled. “Look, I started doing this for her. I felt like it was the least I could do after what she went through. But now… it’s almost as much for me. It’s the highlight of my week most of the time.”

The sarcastic grin on Jackie’s face grew. “Tobias J. Carrick. You are in love.”

“Wha… what? First of all, my middle initial is not J!”

“I improvised.”

“And I am not in love! Yes, I care about Casey. I mean… so do you… right? That does not mean you’re in love with her, and I’m not either.”

“Hmm. He doth protest too much.”

They stopped talking when they heard Casey’s bedroom door open, but Tobias had to get the last word.

“Bite me, Varma!”

“Ha! You wish.”

They both turned to see Casey wearing a long-sleeved t-shirt and a pair of jeans, woefully underdressed for the weather. Tobias raised an eye.

“Uh, princess, you’re not going out dressed like that in this weather.”

“Yes, Dad,” she rolled her eyes. “But I’m not. You’re right, it’s too cold. I thought maybe we could just stay in today and maybe watch a movie?”

“As much as I’d like that, part of the purpose here is to get you out of this apartment a bit.”

“But what can we do? It’s below freezing.”

“Well, now that you mention it… I know a little café in Concord. They have hot chocolate, a fireplace….”

“You had me at hot chocolate. Let me just change real quick. I’d love to go.”

Jackie watched Tobias as he watched Casey, not taking his eyes off her until her bedroom door closed.

“You are so in love,” she teased as she breezed by him, heading to the living room.

All I Want for Christmas Is You blared from the radio as Tobias turned on the highway. He saw a slight smile on her lips, but he was pretty confident that she would have been screaming the lyrics on the top of her lungs in another time, yet he was happy for the small steps.

“Hey, listen…” he asked tentatively, “I have a proposition for you.”

“Oh, people warned me this was coming.”

“Freaking comedian in my car, huh? That role is limited to me, dear.”

“No, it’s not,” she giggled, “but tell me, what is this proposition?”

“I know the deal has always been I pick you up once a week, and we do whatever you want. No questions asked, but I was wondering if next week, just this once, can I pick?”

“Ah… I knew this day was coming.”

“You mad?”

“No, I’m teasing. I think it’s a good thing. It means you think I’m not so fragile. We can’t shake things up a bit, and I like it.”

“I never thought you were fragile, Casey. You are one of the strongest people I’ve ever known. Just because you have been struggling, that doesn’t make you fragile. Fighting through it right now, this is the strongest you have ever been, even if you don’t feel like it.”

She tapped his knee softly, and his heart all but stopped.

“Thank you for the vote of confidence. But you haven’t shared your idea for next week’s adventure.”

“Well, I’ve been kind of homesick. So I was thinking, would it be OK if we went there? I can show you what the holidays were like for me growing up there, and I get some good company for the trip.”

“Tobias, you grew up in DC.”

“Yeah, it’s a bit of a trip. We could fly down.”

“I’m currently on disability from my position as a resident,” she laughed, “flying isn’t exactly in my budget.”

“Nor does it need to be. It’s on me, and it can be my Christmas gift to you. What do you say?”

She smiled, but when he turned to look at her, he saw a devilish glint in her eyes.

“What?”

“I guess we could go. But no matter what, the holidays in DC will never match the holiday’s in Philly.”

“That’s hometown bias speaking right there.”

“And you’re any different? The only difference is that I am right, and you are wrong.”

“Oh really, you willing to back that up?”

“I sure am.”

“Good. Then our trip is officially to DC and Philly, and we’ll duke this out once and for all.”

“That would be a little difficult to do in a day, Tobias.”

“So, we make it two. I have time at work, and we’ll make it an overnighter.”

Casey flinched, and he saw her previously flippant demeanor turn to one of trepidation within a moment.

“Case,” he said tenderly, “I don’t mean anything untoward by it. I’ll get us two rooms. I’m sorry if you thought….”

“I didn’t. Well, not really. But, I also have not been away from home since the attack.”

“Hey, if you’re not ready, we don’t go.”

“No… I think it might be time to try. But… I’m actually afraid of being completely alone. Do you think you could get one room… with two beds?”

He smiled as warmth that could combat the frigid weather outside overcame him. She trusted him, which meant to him than he could express.

“I could do that,” he smiled. “In fact, I can do one better. I’ll get a suite, this way, we can each have our own room, but I’ll be a few steps away if you need me.”

“Are you sure it isn’t too much of a bother?”

“To show that my town kicks your town’s ass when it comes to celebrating the holidays,” he snorted, “nope, no bother at all.”

“Then we’re all set. I can’t wait.”

He saw the light just starting to come back to her eyes.

“Neither can I.”

Sienna’s brow was furrowed as she helped Casey close her suitcase.

“You’re sure you’re OK with this?” she asked.

“Yes, I’m fine. Tobias got a suite so we can each have our own room, and… I trust him. He’s done nothing but help me since… well… since.”

She let out a sigh, “I guess if you feel OK, then I have to try to as well.”

“Si, I understand you being worried. It will be her first night away. But Casey has come a long way, and, for what it’s worth, I think she’s in good hands with T. I mean, not that she will be in his hands. Unless you want to be in his hands, and no judgment from me if you do, I just meant that….”

“We know what you meant,” Casey grinned. “And you’re right. I will be in good hands. He… he really cares about me, and he’s proven that.”

“I have to admit, he has.” Sienna conceded, “But I’m still making it clear to him that he better treat you well before you leave.”

Casey threw her arm around her friend. “I’d expect nothing less.”

Tobias took a couple of days off of work, they decided to drive down, and with such a long drive, it necessitated a weekend trip. They both loved road trips, and this way, they could stop to see any sights along the way if they desired. Casey had to admit, it was the first time she was really looking forward to something since that awful day. She never expected their friendship to grow so profoundly, but she was so glad that it had.

The ride was punctuated with great conversations, Christmas music, a couple of stops to eat, and an impromptu snowball fight at a rest stop in Maryland. They were both so tuckered out when they arrived at the opulent suite, there was little more to do than wash up and head to bed. Casey was already snoring softly in her room when Tobias got out of the shower. Her door was ajar, and he stood in the hallway, a look of contentment on his face as he watched her sleep. He closed the door quietly and headed to his room.

They were up bright and early the following day to enjoy the Willard InterContinental’s breakfast buffet. It was definitely not the Holiday Inn’s Casey was used to staying in when she traveled. She was sipping her tea when Tobias returned to the table with a plateful of food.

“Trying to get a lot of sustenance in there,” she laughed.

“Hey, we’re walking the Mall. We have a checklist of museums to see. I need fuel. Have you had enough?”

“I’ve had plenty, and it was delicious.” She sat back in her chair quietly as he scoffed down his food, a slight bit of discomfort creeping into what had been an exuberant mood. T caught a glimpse of her when he managed to look up from his brioche French toast.

“Penny for your thoughts?”

“I just… this place and all, it’s a little more than I’m used to, and I feel bad. I wish you hadn’t gone through such an expense.

With a tender expression, he instinctively reached over and placed his hand atop hers. Anxiety immediately coursed through him as he felt he may have crossed a line. But it was taken as no more than a friendly gesture when he squeezed and quickly pulled away.

“This is as much for me as it is for you. It’s been a long time since I treated myself. A long time since I gave even a small damn about the holidays and, there is no one I’d like to share it with more with you. So not another word about it, OK?”

“I’ll try.”

“Come on,” he said as he took the last scoop of scrambled eggs from his plate. We have a long day ahead.”

The day was filled with activity. He learned that Casey had actually been to the town a lot, though never during this time of year. A history buff, she loved taking it all in, and, to his dismay, she could spend an endless amount of time at each monument, even though she had seen them many times before. His distress stemmed only from the fact that he was freezing, but he kept quiet and let her enjoy her day. Besides, stops at the museums that lined the Mall helped keep them thawed. There was enough snow on the ground to partake in a sleigh ride down Capitol Hill. Then they decided to build a snowman near the Washington Monument. All topped with a walk to see lights on the various Christmas trees that dotted the town, the most impressive near the Capitol building.

“So, what do you think?” He asked as they stood before it.

“I mean, it’s nice. It’s very nice.”

“But?”

“But Philly is going to kick its ass,” she grinned.

“Gee, are you saying today hasn’t been magical?”

“No,” she said as her eyes lit up. He decided at that moment that there was nothing more beautiful than her face illuminated by a million lights twinkling on the tree. “It’s been amazing. Let’s see if we can top it tomorrow.”

_____

Tobias wanted to wake up at the crack of dawn to head to their next destination, but Casey assured him it wasn’t necessary. There was plenty to see during the day, but the real magic occurred at night. She took him to her favorite bagel shop to start the day. Much to his chagrin, she insisted on paying for today’s activities. They were on her home turf, she insisted.

They started with a stroll through Christmas Village, and Tobias was genuinely impressed. The little shops and decorations gave it an old-world feel, right in the center of a thriving city.

“You haven’t seen anything yet! Wait until tonight!”

Philadelphia’s City Hall was breathtaking in and of itself, but it was extra special during this time of year. They went ice skating, took rides on the carousel and the Ferris wheel before heading over to Macy’s for the Christmas Light Show, the perfect opportunity to warm up. Not one to pass up the chance to shop, Tobias spent a little longer than she had anticipated, but the bonus was it was dark by the time they left.

After a quick dinner at McGillin’s Olde Ale House, decked out in its holiday fare, they returned to Christmas Village. Casey was right. As beautiful as it was during the day, there was nothing like it at night. As Tobias watched couples strolling through hand-in-hand and take photos in front of the iconic LOVE sign, envy stirred in him. He reminded himself of the promise he had made to himself once Casey agreed to be friends again. He wouldn’t push it. He was happy just to have her back in his life. He took in the aroma of roasting chestnuts as Casey returned with a hot pretzel to share.

“Ready to head to City Hall again? You’ll see, it’s a different world once the sun goes down.”

“Lead the way, princess. Lead the way.”

“OK,” he admitted as he approached the imposing historic building, awash in light for the annual light show, “and this is not easy for me to do, but you win.”

“Yey!!” Casey said, jumping up and down.

He smiled that smile where his dimples stood out, and as much as she didn’t want to, Casey had to look away. She knew the effect that smile had on her, and she wasn’t remotely ready to admit it, even to herself. “And you haven’t even seen the tree at night yet. I’m so glad you’re enjoying it.”

“Wait, you’re not going to gloat?”

“No,” she said, looking up at him with the wonder of a child in her eyes, “I just wanted you to see it, like I have so many times before. I wanted you to feel all the magic too.”

“Case, seeing this place through your eyes is an experience I will always remember.”

They stood at the tree's base, and once again, he surrendered.

“Well, I have to do it again. Yes, your tree wins.”

“Ha! I told you!”

“Hey, what happened to you’re not gloating!”

“Just give me a little, OK?”

I’d give you anything you want, he thought.

“I mean, this is the greatest Christmas tree in the world,” she continued.

“Yeah, no,” a booming voice came from behind.

“Excuse me?” Casey asked.

“I mean, this is nice and all, but you want to see the best in the world, you need to go to New York City.”

“I don’t believe you,” she deadpanned.

“Have you ever seen it?”

“Not in person, no.”

“Then you can’t judge. I’m from New York. Trust me on this.”

Casey put on a questioning smirk. “If it’s so great, then what are you doing here?”

“Ehh… my wife is from Philly, and I have to indulge her every now and again.”

“Well, how kind of you,” Casey said sarcastically.

“Hey, happy wife, happy life. And, while we may have the best Christmas tree in the world, I will concede, Philly sure has the best women. Right, buddy?” He said, tapping Tobias’s shoulder.

He and Casey immediately shared a nervous look.

“While I don’t disagree with you, she’s just my friend, not my girlfriend.”

The man took a long look at Casey, then at Tobias, and shrugged. He firmly tapped Tobias on the shoulders before walking away.

“Well, I’d get on that if I were you, pal. What are you waiting for? Happy Holidays you two.”

Casey’s cheeks turned bright red, and it wasn’t from the cold. She looked down at the street below, unsure of what to say. Tobias never once took his eyes off her. He had at least a dozen jokes at the ready, but he didn’t say any of them. There was no way he would give the impression that he wanted to do anything less than that stranger suggested. But he also didn’t want to make her uncomfortable, so he broke the silence.

“I have an idea.”

“What’s that?”

“Let’s put this ‘greatest Christmas tree of all’ thing to rest once and for all. What do you say we pass by New York on the way home tomorrow.”

“You mean it?”

“I don’t joke about things like this.”

Her face lit up, “I’d love to!”

“So we have a plan! But what do you want to do tonight?”

“I say we take a ride down 13th Street. You need to see those Christmas lights, then let’s get some cookies and watch a movie back at the hotel. If we’re hitting New York tomorrow, we need to rest up.”

“If medicine doesn’t work out for you, you have a career as a cruise director, kid. Let’s go.”

They sat on the couch in the hotel room, a bowl of popcorn and a plateful of chocolate chip cookies from the 4th Street Cookie Company before them. They watched his favorite holiday movie (A Christmas Story) and hers (It’s a Wonderful Life). Halfway through the latter, Casey layed down on the couch, placing her feet on top of his lap. He raised his hands up at first, not sure what to do, then he lowered one on top of her ankles, breathing a sigh of relief when she didn’t flinch.

Look, Daddy. Teacher says, every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.

That's right, that's right.

The movie concluded with that famous line, and Tobias felt a lump forming in his throat.

“You know, I am man enough to admit, that damn line gets me every time.”

But Casey didn’t answer. He looked over, and she was fast asleep. He lifted her feet from his lap, gently placing them back on the couch, and went to the bedroom to retrieve a blanket, and he tucked it around her and smiled.

“Good night, Casey.” He decided to take the chance and leaned over, placing the most delicate kiss atop her head. “Sweet dreams,” he whispered before heading to his room, where the only dreams he had that night were about her.

_____

Casey was giddy when she turned on the radio in the car the next day.

“I can’t believe we’re going to New York too! This has been the greatest trip. It really feels like Christmas, doesn’t it, T?”

“It sure does,” he smiled. And it was the first time it had for him in well over a decade. If anyone had told him this a year before….

“How long will it take us to get there?”

“Well, once we’re on the NJ Turnpike, we’re looking about two hours.”

“That gives us plenty of time for holiday music,” she grinned.

Ten minutes passed, and, truthfully, could anyone go much longer than that without Mariah Carey belting from the radio this time of year? Casey turned up the volume and looked adorable as she danced in her seat. Then it happened.

It may have been off-key, but it was the best thing he had ever heard. Holding up a pretend microphone and belting it out for an imaginary crowd, her crowd of one grinned from ear to ear. She was singing.

“I don't want a lot for Christmas There is just one thing I need Don't care about the presents underneath the Christmas tree I don't need to hang my stocking there upon the fireplace Santa Claus won't make me happy with a toy on Christmas Day

I just want you for my own More than you could ever know Make my wish come true All I want for Christmas is yoooooooooouuuuuuuuuuu.”

“You’re gonna give Mariah a run for her money,” he laughed.

“I think she’d tell me to keep my day job…. Well, once I’m back to my day job.”

“You’re getting closer every day, Case.”

He didn’t stop smiling until they reached New York. She was smiling, she was singing, and Santa had just delivered his Christmas present.

_____

“Last stop!” He bellowed as he handed his car keys to the valet.

“We won’t stay long. It’s still a long ride home, and you have work tomorrow.”

“Hey, I’ll sleep when I’m dead.”

“Yeah, well, I want you to stay healthy, so that’s a long, long time away. So we won’t be long, I want you to rest.”

They turned a corner, and there it was the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. They both gazed up, definitely tourists, with a look of astonished wonder on their faces.

“Holy shit!” He exclaimed, “That thing is huge!”

“That’s what she said,” Casey laughed.

“Really, Casey?” He laughed down at her, “Really? It’s Christmastime.”

“Well, I’m not going to stop being a wiseass just because of that.”

They intermittently looked up at the tree as they watched the skaters below.

“Well, I hate to admit it, but that guy was right. This is the greatest tree of all.”

“I’m so glad you said it,” he chuckled. “I just wish we could see it at night. I’m sure it is even more magnificent.”

“Yeah, you’re right. But we can do it next year.”

Next year. There would be a next year. God damn, that fat bastard just dropped another present right in his lap. He didn’t think he had been that good this year, but this trip couldn’t get any better.

He promised himself he would not let this happen. He wouldn’t permit himself to dream of anything more with her. He told himself that a thousand times over, that promise was becoming increasingly difficult to keep. The self-proclaimed ladies man and relationship-phobic Tobias Carrick was officially smitten. He couldn’t deny it anymore, so he made a new promise. He’d keep this information to himself. She wasn’t ready and, even if she were, there was no guarantee that he was anyone that she would want to move on with. He certainly bungled his first chance, and man did he regret it. At that moment, watching the lights flicker on her beautiful face once again, the agnostic doctor said a little prayer asking if it just might be him. Friendship was enough, he told himself, but he knew it would break his heart if he had to watch her fall in love with someone else one day.

“Well,” Casey said, “We saw the tree. We should probably get going.”

“Unless…”

“Unless what?”

“I have always wanted to take a carriage ride through Central Park.”

“You’re kidding!” She exclaimed.

“What? Is there something wrong with that?”

“No! No, that’s not what I meant… it’s just, I’ve always wanted to do that too. So, do you want to? Now.”

“Hey, if we both want to, it’s happening. Let’s go!”

They walked down Fifth Avenue, taking in the spectacular light shows in the store windows along the way. And when they reached the park, they hopped into a beautiful open carriage, but not before Casey had a lengthy conversation with the driver about the horse that would be pulling them.

“No, M’am, it’s not like it used to be. They only ride through a special route in Central Park, and they’re not near any cars, no danger to them.”

“And what about at the end of the night? How do they get back to the stables?”

“In a trailer attached to my truck that I drive very carefully. M’am, I only bring him out twice a week, and the stables are at my house. George her is my family, I assure you, he’s the most spoiled horse in the City. I wouldn’t let anything happen to him.”

“OK, then. We can ride. But before we do, can I feed him a carrot?”

The man smiled as he reached into a bag. “You sure can.”

Tobias clandestinely snapped a shot of her beaming as she fed George. No matter what the future held for them, he knew this was a moment he would never want to forget.

“You’re incredible, you know?” he said, helping her into the carriage.

“In a good way or a bad way?”

“In the best way.”

The driver handed them a blanket to keep them warm.

“And Ma’am, I have twenty fresh blankets folded away here. No one uses them twice.”

“Oh, that’s OK. I mean, I care about us, but not as much as I care about George.”

Casey pulled the fleece blanket over them.

“I didn’t realize how cold I was until right now.”

“I did,” he laughed, “maybe I can strike a deal with him. I wouldn’t mind keeping this with me for the walk back to the car.”

They were seated fairly close to one another, and Casey eyed the tiny gap between them.

“Well, if you’re that cold, we should huddle together, you know, for warmth.”

“Yeah, I mean… sure… anything to stave off frostbite, right?”

“Right,” she smiled, moving closer to him.

He cautiously pulled his arm up and wrapped it around her shoulders, pleading with the universe that she wouldn’t be upset with the gesture. The universe delivered as she nuzzled her head into his shoulder. He was wrong earlier. This trip could get better, and it just did. Snow started falling as they went through the park, and they both agreed, this was better than any movie they had ever seen.

As the ride approached the end, Casey noticed a small sprig of mistletoe hanging above them on the hood of the carriage. She looked down, biting her lip, thinking back to the day, not too long ago, when she asked him to kiss her with no strings attached. “Friends with kissing benefits,” he called it. Should she ask again? She didn’t want to go too far, and she couldn’t convince herself that he’d like to. But as she looked around at this beautiful scene, she took the chance.

“T?” she looked up nervously, his eyes meeting hers.

“Remember in Cambridge that day? When I asked if we could kiss, and you said we could be friends with kissing benefits.”

“I do,” he smiled.

“Well, we’re under the mistletoe, and this is such a special day. And would you be… mmmhhhh.”

Just like last time, his soft, full lips were upon hers before she finished speaking. Her arms found their way to his shoulders as he cupped her face in his hands. It was sweet, gentle, tender but filled with more longing than the last time, and, this time, when he pulled back, she lifted her hands to the back of his head and pulled him in for one more.

Almost embarrassed to look at him, she held him in an embrace for several minutes. He kissed the top of her head. The words that came to him were not spoken out loud. I love you. He loved her, and there was no fighting it any longer. He didn’t know if he ever uttered those words to anyone in his adult life, and if he had, he certainly didn’t mean them. But this time, what he felt, it was real.

“Merry Christmas, Casey,” he grinned.

“Merry Christmas, T.”

_____

They walked hand in hand as they made their way down the long city blocks heading back to his car. But, they did not speak a word. When the valet arrived, T was waiting. No one was opening the door for his girl, or the woman he wished was his girl, but him. Several moments later, Casey turned to him.

“Can you pull over? Please?”

“Sure.” He pulled over and placed the car in park.

“You know what I went through.”

“Yeah, I was there, Casey.”

“You… you know I’m not ready yet, right? I need you to know that.”

“I do. Kissing with no strings attached, right?”

“Yes. And maybe hand holding with no strings attached too.”

“I can handle that,” he smiled.

“But you know you mean the world to me, right?”

“Yes, and you know I feel that way about you.”

She nodded, “Yeah, I can tell. I’m sorry, though, but I’m not ready.”

“You don’t have to be sorry about anything. You went through hell, and the only person who will know when you’re ready is you.”

“You are the best, T. I mean that.”

“Nah,” he said, bopping her nose with his finger, “that would be you.”

“Can I have one more of those kisses before we go?”

His hands slid to the back of her neck.

“That can be arranged.”

Once again, time seemed to stop as sparks flew between them.

“Thank you,” she muttered.

Tobias laughed, “You really need to stop thanking me for kissing you.”

“I’ll work on it.”

He put the car back in drive, and they began to make their way back home to Boston. Tobias was overjoyed as he felt his fears melting away. She may not be able to admit it yet, but they were already in a relationship. It wasn’t typical, and it wasn’t as much as he wanted, but it was so much more than he thought would ever be. And he couldn’t be happier. He made a mental note, he had to leave cookies out for Santa this year.

#submission #jerzwriter #oph advent calendar #tobias carrick x mc #tobias x mc #tobias carrick #open heart fanfics #choices open heart #open heart fanfiction #open heart fanfic #open heart

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choicesnovchallenge2021 · 2 years

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Fanfiction

Mother of the Heart

I Love You A Latke | Levi Schuler x MC (Laura Day), daughter (Lily Day) - @storyofmychoices

Open Heart

Wanna Bet? | Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey MacTavish) - @jerzwriter

Moodboard

Mother of the Year

Levi Schuler moodboard - @lorirwritesfanfic

#choices fanfic #choices moodboard #mother of the year #open heart #choicesnovember2021 #day twenty eight

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jerzwriter · 2 years

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Tobias & Casey Masterlist

Updated 03.27.2024

Tobias & Casey - "My Canon" Stories Masterlist

Wedding & Baby Stories Masterlist (I didn't know where to put this, so it goes here. lol)

Meet Casey

Meet Tobias

Meet Tobias & Casey

Their Exes

Their Daughters (Pregnancy & Basic Info)

More on Tobias, Casey & their Daughters

Meet OCs in Tobias & Casey's World

Tobias & Casey - AU and One-Off Masterlist

Tobias & Casey - "Specials" Masterlist

Tobias & Casey Asks and Answers

Tobias & Casey Fanart Commissions

#tobias carrick #tobias carrick x mc #tobias x casey #tobias x casey masterlist #tobias carrick x casey mactavish

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jerzwriter · 1 year

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If you have any real feelings on this, please comment or DM me.

#tobias carrick #tobias carrick x casey mactavish #what the hell should I do?

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jerzwriter · 5 months

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So, as you saw in my last post, @rosefuckinggenius broke my heart (in the most amazing way!) this year, but they also filled my heart with utter joy.

First, they made my very first (certainly not last) commission of my beloved Casey & Jessica. I love this SO much. You were 100% the best person to bring my precious girls to life!

Then, at year-end, you melted my heart with The Carrick Family's Christmas portrait. Writers take so much time and put so much love into their characters, and working with someone who respects that and puts as much into bringing visions to life - you can't ask for better than that! I'm so happy we got to work together again this year and look forward to more in 2024! I hope the year brings you nothing but good, dear Rose!

@choicesfandomappreciation Year End Event

#choices fandom appreciation #artist appreciation #rosefuckinggenius #playchoices #open heart #open heart choices #casey mactavish #casey x jessica #tobias carrick #tobias x casey #open heart fanart #fanartists are the best!

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jerzwriter · 1 year

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A Little Surprise

This little fic was created in honor of @storyofmychoices's birthday! I told you Olivia was entering my Tobias & Casey world! And Bryce is introducing her in a big way! I hope you enjoy it, Dani! But more importantly, I hope you have a wonderful day!

Book: Open Heart (post-series)

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey MacTavish)

Featuring: Bryce Lahela x @storyofmychoices's Olivia Hadley

Rating: Teen

Category: Fluff

Summary: Tobias & Casey's wedding is this Saturday! And their officiant, Bryce, has been so excited about wooing the single guests all along, until now. When he creates a little mystery about his sudden date, Casey is determined to get to the bottom of things.

Words: 1900

A/N: I hope I don't confuse people. Holland Roden is my FC for Casey's ex-girlfriend, Jessica, as well as Dani's Olivia - we're just going to ignore that! lol But this is not a Jessica fic! :)

@choicesmonthlychallenge Prompts: Friends, Love, and Romance

Wedding & Baby Stories Masterlist Tobias & Casey Complete Masterlist My Full Masterlist

Casey was hunched over a pile of paperwork in the diagnostic team’s office. She was so engrossed that the world around her disappeared. That included one overly exuberant Dr. Bryce Lahella… exuberant even for him.

Life had been more than good to him in recent years, and it seemed to be at an all-time. His career was soaring. Recently named the Porter Mitchell Surgical Resident of the Year, doors he never imagined opening were now firmly within his reach. Since arriving in Boston, he found something he had always yearned for, a true, loving found family. And this weekend, he would be presiding over the wedding of two of his closest “family members.”

He thought Tobias and Casey were joking when they initially asked him but was thrilled to learn they were serious. It was an honor he didn’t take likely. Besides, with his self-assured manner, he knew he’d hit it out of the park. He’d be sentimental, funny, charming… and handsome as hell. When Casey asked him if he’d be bringing a date, he declined.

“Nope. Next to your fiance, I am going to be the man of the hour!” He winked. “I’ll be fighting potential suitors off of me… it would be unfair to deny them the opportunity!”

Casey muttered something about it being no wonder he and Tobias were such good friends before walking away. But it was two months later now, and a lot had changed. Yeah. Life had been very good to Bryce Lahela.

“Hey, Casey-cakes!” he exclaimed, approaching her, causing her to startle in his wake.

“For God’s sake, Bryce! Don’t scare me like that!”

“Sorry,” he peered over her at her laptop screen. “I forget some people get so caught up in paracoccidioidomycosis that they don’t notice when a ravishingly handsome young surgeon enters the room.”

“Seriously, Lahela. A, you would be equally enthralled with reading about the Versuis technique. And, B, as ravishingly handsome as you are, you know I only have eyes for one super hot doctor in this hospital… and it’s not you.”

“Well, thank God for that. Tobias couldn’t take this competition.”

Casey burst out laughing. “So, to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit. You have questions about Saturday?”

“Nope,” he assured. “I have the ceremony down pat. It’s going to be amazing, Casey. The best-looking bride and groom in the history of Boston, and me as officiant. This weekend's rising temperature will have nothing to do with global warming!”

“Yes, yes, I know,” she rolled her eyes. “Hence, you’re going stag and will fight everyone off at the reception.”

“Actually,” he sang. “That’s why I came to see you.”

“No, Bryce. I won’t give you a list of single guests, and I won’t tell you which ones are the hottest.”

“I’m glad to hear that because that’s not what I wanted to talk to you about.”

“Oh?”

“I was going to see if I could still bring a plus one.”

“Ooooh! Is there something you haven’t told me? You were quite excited about flying solo Saturday!”

Bryce walked to the door, looking outside before shutting it behind him and returning to Casey.

“I’ve been seeing someone,” he whispered. Based on the genuine grin that followed, Casey knew this was something big.

“Oh, have you! Tell me more!”

“I’ve kept it quiet because she’s really special, and I wanted to make sure this would work before going public.”

“Wait! So are you official!” Casey smacked his arm. “You’re official, and this is the first time I’m learning of this!”

“Ow!” Bryce yelled. “Does Tobias know how hard you hit.”

“Yes!” She smirked. “He rather likes it… if I must say so myself.”

Bryce pulled out his phone and made a note, “OK, that’s going into the ceremony now.”

“Bryce,” Casey laughed, “back to the point!”

“We’re not officially official yet, but if all goes well, we will be very soon, and I’d love to bring her to the wedding.”

Casey squealed with delight. “Of course! This is so exciting! Who is she? Do I know her?”

“You know her, but I’d like to hold off on telling you for a couple days?”

“Bryce Lahela! Don’t you trust me by now? You know I won’t tell a soul! You’re the only one who knows Tobias and I already got hitched secretly; I trusted you!”

“I’m your officiant, Casey! I had to handle the paperwork! You had no choice.”

She crossed her arms with a huff. “I would have told you anyway! Now, come on, tell me.”

“How about this? I’ll tell you… on Saturday, when I walk in with her on my arm.”

“I hate you, Bryce. I should deny you the extra invite.”

“You can’t do that because if you do, the shit I will include in your ceremony will make all your parent's hair stand on edge.”

“Fine!” Casey relented with a laugh. “But, can you tell me if I know her at least?”

“You do,” he grinned. “She works here, and that’s all I’m saying.”

“It’s not Brenda from Accounting. Is it? I can’t stand Brenda from Accounting.”

“Negative! I told you it was only one date.”

“It’s not Audrey… right? Tell me it’s not Audrey.”

“No,” he laughed. “I would know better than to bring her to your wedding.”

“I would hope you’d know better than to date her. OK, Lahela, I’ll take the surprise on Saturday, but I’m snooping! I’ll figure it out way before then.”

“Yeah,” Bryce replied while walking to the door, looking back with a quick wink. “Good luck with that.”

~~~~~

He wasn’t out of the office for more than five minutes before Casey was on a quest. Her first target was her own beloved fiance.

“Hello gorgeous,” he drawled, entering the office.

“Oh, thank God you’re here!”

Tobias raised a brow. “Really? Want me to lock the door? I thought we said no fooling around at work until your morning sickness passed, but if you insist….”

“Not that!” Casey giggled.

“Damn! Then what?”

“It’s Bryce. Has he seemed… different to you lately?”

“He’s been awfully happy. I figured he was looking forward to being the belle of the ball at our wedding reception. Considering he and Ethan are the only single men invited, he may honestly have a chance.”

“That’s the thing! He just asked if he could bring a date!”

“Really? Any idea who?”

“No, that’s why I’m asking you. All he would say is I know her, and she works at the hospital.”

“Got me? It’s not Audrey, is it? Tell me it’s not Audrey.”

“No,” Casey laughed, “I already cleared that.”

“Good. So I’m sure you’ll be snooping to figure it out?”

“Damn straight! In fact,” she stood from her desk, “I’m going to question Sienna right now.”

~~~~~

Casey found her best friend, slash, harried maid of honor, in the break room.

“Si!” She yelled.

“What? The cake is being delivered at 5:45. I took care of it! And the rehearsal dinner is under control! Even if Vivian is driving me crazy, I told her….”

“Si! Si!!” Casey grabbed her friend's hands. “Calm down. You’re more nervous about the wedding than I am!”

“I just want it to be perfect!”

“It will be. But that’s not why I’m here to see you. I know I’ve been a bit removed lately, what with the wedding,” she looked around to make sure they were alone, “and the baby. But is there any tea among our friends I’m unaware of?”

Sienna scrunched her brow, giving the question serious thought. “No. Besides, we have lunch every day, and if there is good tea, I’m spilling it.”

“I know,” Casey sighed. “Has Bryce been seeing anyone that you know of?”

“Well, it’s Bryce,” Sienna shrugged. “He’s usually seeing someone. But he hasn’t mentioned anyone lately. Unless….”

Casey’s ears perked up. “Unless what?”

“Bryce could be a Herbie.”

“A what?”

“Herbie. My cousin. He was a real ladies' man! He'd always go on dates and brag about them left and right. Then, one day, we noticed he hadn’t done so for quite a while. We wondered why, then, a month later, he introduced us to Mary. She’s now his wife. Once he was serious, he was quiet as a mouse until he was sure. Maybe Bryce is a Herbie?”

Sienna’s statement put her over the edge, and Casey discreetly questioned anyone she could that afternoon…. Without success…. Finally, she and Tobias held hands in the elevator as they left work for the day.

“I can’t believe I haven’t figured it out,” Casey sighed, “I hope pregnancy hasn’t made me lose my touch.”

“Your touch is fine,” Tobias chuckled. “You’ll just have to be patient and wait until Saturday.”

“I don’t want to! And tell me you’re not curious!”

“Of course I am, but I can live with waiting.”

The bell rang when they hit the fourth floor, and when the door opened, a beautiful redhead with a smile that could only be rivaled by one cheeky surgeon entered.

“Oh, hey, Liv,” Casey beamed.

“Casey! How are you?”

“I’m doing great. Have you officially met my fiance?”

“I can’t say I have.”

“Then let’s correct that! Olivia, this is my fiance Tobias. Tobias, this is Olivia. She’s the pediatrics resident I was telling you about.”

“Ah, Casey’s new friend!” Tobias smiled with an extended hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, too. And Casey may have gushed over you at least a dozen times since we met.”

“What?” Tobias gasped. “Only a dozen? See what happens when you put a ring on it?”

“I need to get to know her better first, baby,” Casey laughed. “I like her and don’t want to scare her away.”

“I appreciate that,” Liv blushed. “But I’m so happy I ran into you. I know this may seem weird, but I’m going to your wedding Saturday.”

“You are?” Casey blinked.

“Yeah! Dr. Lahela asked if I’d go with him, and of course, I said yes! I am so excited!”

Tobias and Casey exchanged a knowing look as a simirk came to Tobias’s lips.

“As are we,” he replied.

“Absolutely!” Casey enthused. “This is wonderful! We had to keep our list small, but I’m so glad you’ll be able to be there!”

The bell for the first floor rang. “Well, this is me, but I can’t wait! We’re still on for coffee tomorrow, right, Casey?”

“Wouldn’t miss it!”

The elevator doors had barely shut, and Tobias had his phone in his hand. “Where and when on the coffee?”

“6:00 at Derry’s. Why”

Tobias held up a finger after dialing.

“Bryce! How are you doing? Listen, are you free to go over some wedding stuff tomorrow? Oh, you are! Great! How about right after work, at Derry’s. Perfect! I’ll see you then!”

Casey couldn’t contain her grin when Tobias hung up and looked her way. “You’re an evil genius!”

A self-satisfied smile let her know he agreed. “You like that, huh?”

“I do,” she said, caressing his lapel. “I am honestly so turned on right now.”

“Really?” He wagged his eyebrows. “Wanna make out in the elevator?”

“We’re almost at our floor,” Casey giggled as he quickly pecked her cheek. “But we could make out in the car before we leave.”

“Deal,” he smiled as they stepped into the parking garage. “I will be forever grateful Bryce suggested getting those tinted windows.”

"That was Bryce's suggestion?"

"Yeah!"

"And this is how we're going to thank him?"

Tobias let out a little snicker. "He'd expect nothing less!"

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