We tricked each other (So I'll gladly be the fool)

by Mar2610

Summary:

Omega Buck feels rejected by an Alpha Eddie who loves him more than anything.

Once that's cleared up, they're mated and happy, they get to live the life they could've had all along.

Notes:

Just a silly little story of fictional firefighters with additionally fictional traits that bring me immeasurable comfort.

Chapter 1: Fated?

“What the hell?” He muttered to himself. The light flashed, an image forming his mind. For a second he could’ve sworn Taylor was there. With a blind stumble he ran back for his phone. His heart ached as he saw the lock screen he couldn’t bear to change. It was the last shred of Buck he had left. As the phone rang he stared, dazed at the wall.

“Eddie? Get over to the hospital.” His brows furrowed, but he was standing, pulling on his clothes.

“What’s going on?”

“Buck’s in the ED.” It was only then he realised she sounded more angry than scared.

“Why?” He grabbed his sneakers, slipping into the elevator.

“ORD.” She snapped back. “His organs are shutting down and there’s a nasty wound on his thigh that’s telling me why.” Something horrible, hot and jealous jolted through him.

“Who was he mated to?”

“Wow. You’re dumber than I thought.” He brushed past the statement all together.

“We never got the chance.” Eddie muttered, his fingers twitching at the idea of Buck hurt.

“Yeah. For a normal couple. But you bit him, didn’t you?” She demanded.

“Only on the-“

 

Lying on his stomach, looking up at Buck with a cheeky grin.

“What?” The omega breathed, still filling his lungs with precious air.

“I want to bite you so bad.” Eddie whispered. He wasn’t meant to say that stuff like that. It was an unspoken rule.

“Go on then.” Buck smirked. Eddie turned his head and bit into the soft flesh. It was a trick of his heart, the rightfulness that settled in him. He climbed back up Buck, kissing him. Buck ducked his head, playful biting into Eddie’s shoulder. “There. No we’re even.”

“Oh my god Ta-“

“I know. Get down here.” He was already in his car, hanging up the phone and speeding down the road. He’d rather get every speeding fine in the city than slow down. His park was haphazard and he ran into the building.

“I’m looking for Evan Buckley.” He rattled off his information until the nurse gave him a flat look.

“You’re an Alpha?” She identified.

“Yeah. I’m- well, it’s complicated. But I have to get up there. I need to help him.” She still looked cross with him, but she turned and started walking down the hall. He followed close on her heels, glancing around. He was sniffing, trying to catch Buck’s scent.

“I need you to calm down before we go in.”

“Please-“

“I will not let you until your scent will help stabilise him.” Tears stung his eyes as he tried to process everything.

“Is he ok?”

“No he’s not ok!” Eddie spun around to watch an angry Taylor storm at him. “I had a bad feeling so I went to his place and found him shivering on the bathroom floor. His apartment reeked of distressed omega and he was barely coherent.” She was shooting him the dirtiest look he’d ever seen out of the omega.

“I’m sorry-“

“Don’t apologise to me!” She smacked his arm. “Buck was the one muttering about he’s an unlovable omega-“

“That’s not true.”

“And how you didn’t want him. So no. You are not apologising to me.” Her eyes flashed up and down, still fuming. “You are going to get a grip on yourself, you are going in there and you are going to help our boy.” Taylor pauses, glancing over to the nurse. “Now!”

“Ok.” He stumbled into a small room. There was a window looking into a hospital room, Buck lying on the bed. He looked like an angel. A doctor turned to him.

“Are you the Alpha?” He asked with a straight face. Eddie barely flicked his eyes over.

“Yes.”

“If I let you in there you better keep your cool.” His heart was starting to race, adrenaline coursing through him. His omega was hurt, alone and only ten metres away.

“I can do that.”

“You need to calm your scent too.” That only made him angrier, triggering another unimpressed look.

“Please just let me in there.” His voice was not as strong as he was hoping.

“Give yourself a moment.” Anger drained from him. “He needs love right now.” It took a few more seconds, but then he breathed and nodded.

“I’m good.” The second door opened and it was clear he was in fact, not good. The smell in the room was suffocating, depression and death rolled into one. He didn’t think, grabbing a blanket and rushing over to the bed. He pulled away the rank blankets, pulling Buck up gently. He lay himself down, pulling Buck against him. Gently running his wrist up and down. It took a few moments, but then Buck seemed to blink awake.

“Eddie?” He whispered. One of his hands reached up, grasping Eddie’s jumper.

“Yeah, I’m here darling.”

“Why are you here?” Tears were filling Buck’s eyes again. His scent was ok though, nothing too horrid. “I thought you didn’t love me anymore. That I was wrong and bad-“

“No no.” Eddie was fighting back tears. There was this feeling of overwhelming relief. “I didn't know how to breathe around you. I know why now and I am never going to let you go.” Buck was still crying, but he was clinging on.

“Please let this be real.” He muttered.

“It is. I’m here.”

“Please.” They lay together until his scent became sweet, his body calming. After a moment the door opened, a nurse walked in. Eddie locked his arms around his omega, narrowing his eyes.

“I’m here to check Buck’s vitals.” She raised her hands in surrender. “But I need to do that, because if I don’t you can’t take him home.” It took a moment for Eddie to relax, loosening his grip so the nurse could approach.

“No no no.” Buck became distressed, clinging on to Eddie as tight as he could. “Please don’t leave me again.”

“Omega.” He said, as firm as he could. “I am not leaving you. I will not leave you.” The nurse had stopped approaching, watching them carefully. “This woman is here to check you over, so that I can take you home.” Buck went quiet. “I won’t let her touch you until you’re ok with it.”

“You’ll stay here with me?” Buck’s head peaked up, making eye contact.

“I will stay with you until the day I die.” That seemed to appease him. They looked at each other again, before Buck nodded to them. The nurse walked over, starting to set everything up. The couple clinging onto each other as she worked.

“Ok, I’m happy to sign off on you.” Buck didn’t seem to register the words.

“Can I take you home with me?” Eddie kissed his head, gently scenting him.

“Please.” Eddie stood up, holding Buck in his arms. Buck was really quiet, but his fists refused to lighten. As they stepped out into the parking lot Eddie realised how much time had passed.

“Is it ok if we go back to my place?” Eddie gently lowered Buck onto the hood of his car. He had to get out his car keys and hold onto the paperwork the nurse had given him.

“My apartment is bad.” Buck whispered, as though it was a secret only for the two of them.

“Stay with me then.” It was all too simple for him to say, but he meant every word. “Christopher is still at camp, but Buck. I want you with me. Live with me.”

“Do you mean that?”

“I do.” The car was unlocked now, but Eddie quickly returned to Buck’s side. The Alpha ran his nose gently along Buck’s neck. “I would find us a home on the moon if it meant we’d be together.”

“My things are at my apartment.”

“You can wear my clothes until you feel ready, then we can go back together.” Eddie walked him around to the passenger side of the car.

“Are you just saying all of this because I’m sick?” Buck whispered again, terrified of the answer.

“No.” Eddie held his face gently. “I’m saying this because I was an idiot. I didn’t know why you were so perfect and it scared me.” He took a deep breath, still watching his mate.

“Why?”

“We,” Eddie took a pause to laugh. “We are fated.” Buck’s eye widened slightly. “So eve when I bit you on your leg-”

“I’m so sorry.” Buck broke eye contact, his breathing increasing again. “I am so so sorry.”

“I don’t want you to be.” Eddie interrupted.

“But I tricked you and-”

“If you did, I’ll happily play the fool.” Eddie gently redirected his gaze. “Buck, I want to spend the rest of my life with you. We got here in a less than conventional way, but that is our story and there isn’t a thing I would change.” A couple tears slipped from the Omega’s eyes, rolling down his face.

“No more cold, empty apartments?”

“Never again.”

Chapter 2: Nesting

Summary:

Finally, Buck was offered an opportunity to settle into Eddie's heart.

Notes:

Maybe we all just want someone to do anything to make us feel loved.

Buck walked along the store with a grin on his face and his Alpha right behind him. His good mood had been unbreakable since he woke up wrapped up in Eddie’s arms. Eddie’s house was so lovely and warm and the last month he had been spoiled rotten by his new alpha. But when the previous night he had discovered the nest options were vastly sub-par, he had demanded a shopping trip.

“Why don't you have any blankets?” Buck stared at the essentially empty linen cupboard.

“Well it’s not like this place is set up for an omega.” Buck preened a little at knowing he was the first one to stay. “Chris hasn’t presented any which way yet, so you’re the only one nesting.” A smug smile covered his face as he walked over to kiss his Alpha.

“First and last.”

“I like this one.” He decided, running his fingers over the fabric.

“Then we’ll get it.” Eddie echoed. Buck paused, trying to figure out how much it cost. Before he could find a tag, Eddie walked over with a cart.

“Could I get two?” He blurted out.

“Of course.” Eddie pulled two off the shelf. Happiness bubbled in the younger man as he turned to the exit. “Wait, where are you going?”

“We got the blankets.” Buck replied, a little confused. “Oh. Did you want me to find a cheaper one?” He was a little disappointed, but he didn’t want to be fussy.

“No I-” Eddie snagged his wrist, pulling him in.

“Cost is not my concern. I did some research and it said Omegas usually use a dozen blankets and pillows. I made space in the cupboards for them all.”

“You did?” A voice was nagging at the back of his head. “So I can get another one?”

“You could get a hundred.” Too excited, Buck wrapped his arms around Eddie’s neck, kissing him. With each pillow and blanket picked up, Eddie looked happier and happier. He instructed Buck to sit outside so he wouldn’t see how much it all cost. Once they loaded it into the car Buck was so content it was all Eddie could smell.

“Thank you.” Buck muttered. “I’ve never been able to build a nest before.

“I’ve never been with anyone who’s built one. So thank you.” Eddie replied. They dragged the bags up to his apartment, walking in with a happy sigh.” Eddie’s phone buzzed in his pocket, so with an apologetic smile he stepped out to answer it. “This better be important.”

“Eddie, I’ll be right back.” Buck mumbled as he walked out.

“Mr Diaz, we’re just calling on behalf of one of your son’s teachers.” It took twenty minutes to sort out the issue, before he returned inside. In the living room there was no trace of Buck or the blankets.

“Buck?”

“Bedroom.” Eddie walked down the hall, cracking his knuckles as he went.

“Did you take all…” he trailed off as he pushed open the bedroom door. The blankets (of which he could now see was probably an excessive amount) were spread along the floor, walls and bed. “Creative use for the ceiling hooks.” He was impressed for a long moment. “I’m impressed.”

“They all smell like generic stores.” Buck pulled off his shirt, sitting in the centre of the bed. There were two prominent smells: a generic store and a very pleased omega.

“Are you happy?”

“Would be happier if you came over here.” Eddie let out a little laugh.

“I’ll have you know it’s bad manners to enter an Omega’s nest without permission.” He pulled off his own shirt, sitting next to Buck. The Omega gently pushed his shoulder until they were lying flat. Then he planted his head on Eddie’s chest.

“Much better.” Buck muttered into his chest. “Just need Christopher and it will all be ok.”

“I’m glad.” The Alpha replied. The happy, content smell radiating off Buck was making him very happy. I did that.

“I have a timer set for twenty minutes.” Buck reported. “Need to move all of them. Make them all feel better.” He closed his eyes, muscles slowly slumping. Eddie knew his Omega would be asleep in minutes, but he didn’t dare say that.

“Gotta share the love.”

“Exactly.” The word was half mumbled into Eddie’s shirt.

Chapter 3: Buck hates being an omega sometimes

Summary:

Poor Buck :(

Notes:

This is just good fun at this point.

The known on the front door was the only warning, before Tommy stepped into the living room.

“Eddie!” He greeted, smacking their hands into a shake. “Mate, take a wiff of this place!”

“Watch your mouth.” Eddie warned, half joking.

“What? You got a bird up there?”

“Not quite.” Buck stepped into the living room, smiling over at his husband. “Buck.” The other Alpha did nothing short of leering at him. The omega crossed his arms.

“Oh sweetheart don’t hide from me.” A hand shot out, grabbing Buck by the neck before he could dodge.

“Oi.” Eddie smashed into him, separating the two. Tommy took a step back, hands in the air.

“Sorry mate.” He muttered, looking back at Buck.

“Here I was thinking good Alphas share.”

“Didn’t realise you bought into that crap.”

“My husband doesn’t share.” Buck reached out, gently pulling him back.

“My mistake.” He watched the two of them, eyes tracking Eddie’s arm wrapping around his waist.

“You never told me you got hitched.” The words came out cautiously.

“Small wedding.” Eddie replied, ease settling into his shoulders.

“I’m sorry for earlier, again.” Tommy seemed to be sincere, soothing Buck slightly.

“Easy mistake.” He vaguely responded.

“Let’s move into the kitchen.” Eddie suggested, not loosening his grip at all. Buck was very happy to be tucked into his side.

“Let’s.”

“Can I get you a drink?” Eddie offered as Buck and Tommy sat at the island. Buck didn’t miss the way Tommy’s eyes flicked over to him.

“I’m ok, thank you.” Eddie opened the fridge, fishing out a jug of ice tea.

“So what’s been happening with you?” Eddie asked as he finished the jug into a glass.

“Same old, same old.” he muttered. Eddie put the drunk in front of Buck, sitting by his side. “Got a promotion at work, been putting in long hours so it’s always nice to see.” His eyes lifted to Buck. “That actually looks fantastic. Do you think I could nick one after all?”

“Ah sorry mate, that was the last of it.” Eddie stood back up, walking over to the fridge.

“Wouldn’t happen to have a beer in there, would you?”

“I do, actually.” Eddie walked back past them. “In the back room, I’ll be back in just a moment.” As soon as Eddie was out of the room, Tommy spun back.

“-Give me the ice tea.-” Buck hated every part of his biology that pushed the drink over. “-Stay quiet.-” He cleared his throat, his alpha voice gone. “Listen here you good for nothing hole. Eddie could have been a great alpha if not for your pathetic excuse of omega pheromones.” Buck’s eyes were wide with panic, but he didn’t dare more or make a sound. “If I respected him any less I would’ve bent you over by now and would have taught you-” a hand grabbed his shoulder and pulled, throwing Tommy to the ground.

“What the fuck did you say to him?” Buck had never seen Eddie this angry.

“Nothing I-”

“You think you can talk to my mate that way?” Eddie grabbed the man by his collar. “I didn’t realise what a knot-head you’d become or I would’ve never invited you.” Tommy scrambled to his feet, eyes wide with fear. “Apologise.”

“To that-” he cut himself off. “I’m sorry.”

“Get out.” The door slammed behind him. He had to stop, take a moment to breathe before turning around. He didn’t want to bring his anger back over to Buck.

“I’m ok.”

“You shouldn’t need to tell me that.” he muttered as he walked back in. Buck was standing on slightly shaky legs.

“Yeah well. It happens sometimes.”

“It shouldn't be in your home.” Eddie whispered. As Buck looped himself into his husband’s arms. “I am so sorry.”

“I don’t want you to apologise. I want you to keep that man out of our home.” Buck demanded, making his Alpha laugh.

“I will delete his number.”

“Oh, one more thing.” He requested, leaning back to look at his husband.

“I would burn the world at your feet.”

“You look really hot when you’re all possessive alpha for me.” Eddie smirked. “So will you please take me to the bedroom until I can’t smell him anymore?”

“That.” The alpha leaned down, picking him up. “That is something I can do.”

Chapter 4: Christopher the Pup

Buck walked into the home, smiling gently as a four year old Christopher grinned at him.

"Bucky!" He staggered to his feet, starting to walk over.

"You're here." Buck's inner Omega was preening at the pup being home from Texas. Once he got his arms around the child, he took a soft breath. It was such a relief. Being so young, he was yet to fully get his scent. It meant that most of what made it up was Eddie. And Eddie was his favourite scent.

"Of course I'm here." Buck leaned back, taking in the young boy. "Your Dad still has a few hours left on his shift. He asked me to give you the biggest hug yet." With that, he scooped up the young boy, making him giggle. Carla walked in to them hugging, letting out a soft chuckle herself.

"Look at you two." She teased. "How was your shift?"

"Long." Buck sighed, letting his head drop back slightly.

"But you still want to watch a movie, right?" Christopher had wide eyes, looking almost nervous. Buck just chuckled, running his fingers through Chris' hair.

"Of course I want to watch a movie. It's your pick." He promised. He scooped up the young kid, allowing Chris to duck his head. He wound up resting it between Buck's shoulder and neck, inhaling sharply. Buck just huffed out a little laugh. He was yet to learn the importance of discretion. Carla noticed, smiling gently at him.

"We walked in and he recognised your scent right away." Carla announced. "Even I could pick it up. I have a feeling that you were here quite a bit while this young one was away." The beta was giving him one of her signature looks.

"Yeah." Buck was blushing, before nodding gently.

"Are you going to be here a lot now?" Christopher asked, pulling back just enough to give Buck the puppy dog eyes. As if there was anything he wouldn't do for the pup.

"Yeah, I think I am." He paused. "Is that ok?"

"Yeah!" Christopher looked very pleased. "Can we please make a pillow fort to watch the movie in?" Buck just nodded, putting the boy down so that he can walk into the other room. Carla just smiled at him, before reaching out and gently brushing Buck's hair away from his face. Her fingers were barely ten centimetres from the new mark on his neck, the one that Eddie left there gladly.

"How are you going?"

"Better every day," he sighed. "It's honestly the best part of my life. I don't know if I've ever been this happy." Carla just smiled at him, before nodding a couple of times and taking a step back.

"Well, you look after him, ok? And yourself."

"I promise I will." Buck smiled, before saying goodbye. Christopher wandered into the living room, dragging some sheets behind him. The smell of Alpha in the room suddenly increased, making Buck raise an eyebrow. "Did you drag that off your Dad's bedroom?" Christopher just grinned, before shifting slightly. The small boy had done a very good job of dragging the blanket this far, but with his crutches he could only get so far. Buck helped him gather them up, before leading that back into the bedroom.

"Can we get every blanket?" Christopher asked. "It has to be the best fort ever."

"Yeah, of course." Buck gathered every blanket that he could. When he could see that Christopher's legs were starting to bug him, he planted the small boy on the couch. "You pick a movie."

"Disney!" He announced loudly, starting to flick through the channels. Buck started setting up the blankets, making sure that he was propping up the blankets. It was a fairly good fort in the end, Buck even adding extra pillows on the ground so that they could lie it down. Once they deemed it set, they walked into the kitchen and made some snacks.

"Can you add extra butter to the popcorn?" Chris asked.

"Of course."

"Can we add butter to the lollies?" Buck did an exaggerated spin, a shocked look on his face.

"What!" The pup started giggling, entertained by the theatrics. "Well ok. If you insist." The Omega picked up the bowel of lollies, before picking up some butter.

"No no no!" Christopher started laughing. "Bucky no!"

"I thought this is what you wanted." Buck ran around the bench, starting to tickle him. The boy giggled so hard he nearly fell over. That was their cue. Buck picked him up, juggling the other couple of bowels. He sat them down in the fort, enjoying the almost immediate comfort.

"You know, I like the way you and Daddy smell together." Christopher announced. "I think that you should stay." Buck's heart warmed, tears almost springing to mind.

"Well I think I'm going to, as long as that's ok with you."

"Of course it is." Christopher giggled, as if Buck should've never questioned his place in the home. Chris shifted, curling his weight around Buck, so that he could rest. Buck wrapped his arms tight around the boy.

"That's good to hear." Buck pressed a kiss on his head. He clicked play on the movie, letting the noise drift them both to sleep.

 

Eddie pulled his truck into the driveway, so please that Buck's jeep was already there. This felt right. He stepped through the front door, about to announce his presence, when he saw them. Curled into the sheets that were obviously from their bed, were the two people he loved most. His inner alpha purred with absolute happiness. He smiled, dropping his keys and walking closer. Christopher was curled into Eddie's lap, his head tucked into Buck's neck. It was the most precious thing he'd ever seen. Not for the first time, he realised that this was it. This is their family.

Chapter 5: Buck's Nest

Eddie had quickly learnt that Buck will never ask for what he really wants. Always concerned with being too much or too demanding. The omega didn’t understand the lengths Eddie would go to. Unfortunately that doesn’t change for his heats. It took Buck standing in the doorway for twenty minutes for Eddie to break.

“Love. Can I help you?” He was lying on the couch, blanket loosely wrapped around his legs. Buck inched forward, looking horribly guilty.

“Would it be ok, only if you don't mind, if I maybe took that blanket?” Despite the build up, it still took Eddie a minute to process the request. “No that’s ok I-”

“Here.” Eddie passed it over. As he did he noticed his omega’s scent was anxious. “Are you ok?” He asked, a hand coming up to graze his face. When Buck leant into the light touch Eddie could feel how warm he was.

“There was another thing.” Buck admitted, holding the blanket close to his chest.

“What can I do?”

“Call out from work this week?” He looked sheepish asking, as though Eddie would rather work.

“Of course I can do that.” He agreed. “What do you need me for?”

“I’m going into heat and I would like you here with me.” Eddie froze, his brain attempting to piece together what was being asked of him. “Unless you don't want to, that’s ok.”

“Please tell me you weren’t just doubting if I wanted to be here for your heat?” Eddie had to laugh.

“I don’t want to assume.” Buck whispered, his cheeks going red.

“You can always assume that, Omega.” He lowered his voice and dropped his head.

“Ok.” Buck leaned up to kiss him, before dropping back down and turning.

“What do you need the blanket for?” Eddie was following his husband without realising it.

“Making something.” Eddie should’ve been prepared, but for some reason, when we walked into their bedroom and found a nest, he froze. Buck climbed right in, fixing the blankets around him. “Do you…” he noticed the alpha just standing there. It was feeding his insecurity. “Do you not like it?”

“I love it.” Eddie quickly amended. “It just surprised me. You have never done this before.”

“Is it that obvious?” Tears stung at the Omega’s eyes, crossing his arms. “I’m sorry, I did my best, I just-”

“I love it.” Eddie quickly amended. “All I meant was in your previous cycle you didn't have time. That’s it.” Buck looked around.

“Why aren’t you coming closer?”

“Baby.” Eddie gave a soft smile. “An Alpha should never approach a nest without permission.”

“When it comes to me, you are always welcome.” Buck was beaming now. “You can always assume that Alpha.” Eddie moved carefully around the bed, noting how cautiously every blanket was placed.

“Do you like it?”

“I love it.” The Alpha paused. “Where should I get in?”

“Just here.” Buck moved a couple pillows. Eddie pulled himself in gently, smiling over to his Omega. Every surface was soft, squishy and smelt like a happy mate.

“This is very nice.” Eddie paused. “These blankets were a wonderful choice. I really like the way they feel.” Buck went bright red.

“We picked well.”

“You.” Eddie corrected, leaning over and kissing the Omega’s head. “You are the brilliant Omega behind this all. Alpha’s aren’t this smart.” Buck there blushing, taking in the praise. “Brilliant, smart, funny and hot? I got a chance to punch way up my pay grade.” He leaned over, kissing the protest from Buck’s mouth.

“Would you lie here with me?” He asked gently. It broke Eddie’s heart to deny him, even for a second.

“Do you feel it will start after our nap, or later?” He needed to know. Every Alpha instinct he had was to provide, and if he didn’t make foodnow it would be a serious struggle later.

“Morning- Eddie!” The Alpha tackled him down so they could wrestle until Buck woke up. The Omega gently pushed him to the centre of the bed, cuddling up next to him.

“This ok Alpha?” He whispered. Eddie couldn’t imagine anything better.

“You did very good.” It was the right thing to say, because Buck wiggled happily before calming down. After a few minutes he heard another noise. It took the vibration against his hand for him to figure out it was Buck purring. The Alpha smiled and closed his eyes, letting the sleep take over.

Chapter 6

“My favourite Alpha and Omega, how are you?” Taylor never failed to compliment Buck when she first saw him.

“We’re good.” Buck replied, wrapping his arms around Eddie. He not-so-subtly tilted his neck to the side to show off his mark.

“Well that explained why you bailed on coffee last week.” She mused. “Good for you to host, big guy.” Taylor walked past them, elbowing Eddie.

“Buck is the strong one.” Eddie corrected. “All I am is support.”

“Yeah.” Taylor laughed, winking. “Support.”

“He deserves a trophy for all the cooking-”

“Cooking?” That got her attention.

“Yeah.” Eddie stepped in. His Omega had completely frozen in a guilty way.

“That’s what Alpha is meant to do. Provide and protect? All that?”

“Oh Hugo never leaves the bed.” She grinned. “I am still the woman in charge. Tie ‘em up and use the knot, be calm by sundown.” Her hand went up for a high five but Buck didn’t meet her.

“How do you eat then?”

“Sandwiches? I’m not claiming to have a great system, just that I have one.” She was still grinning so Buck high fived her. It wasn’t for everyone, he knew that. Even if they were the last couple on earth who did things a traditional way, he wouldn’t complain. They had tea, thankfully avoiding how they planned to do Eddie’s rut and all too soon she was one foot out the door.

“I will see you before you know it!”

“You better.” Buck laughed, waving her out. The door shut, a slightly uneasy silence falling over the two. “What is it?”

“What’s what?”

“You want to ask me something.” The Omega said, as though it was obvious.

“So… what is it?” Eddie got a serious expression on his face for a moment.
“Are you happy with how you spent your heat?” Buck laughed. The horrified expression on his Alpha’s face was comical.

“Am I happy with the fact I spent a week locked in our apartment? That I wore nothing but your clothes?” He started walking over to his partner. “That you doted on me for every moment of every day.” Eddie just went red.

“I was just looking after you.”

“Am I happy to have one of the most humble husbands on the planet?” The Omega’s arms came up, wrapping around the Alpha’s shoulders.

“Oh please. I have you.”

“Am I happy that for a week straight and in most of my life actually, I got everything I wanted, every moment of every day?” Eddie was starting to feel silly, so Buck kissed him. “I have never been so happy.”

“So you don’t want to tie me up and…”

“Ride your knot until sundown?” Buck laughed. “No. Because you should know better than anyone how I react when you pick me up and throw me around. It’s hot.” A knowing smirk came over Eddie’s face. “Another thing. You know I put on weight?”

“Really?” Every Alpha instinct was shining.

“Yep. Normally I lose five kilos and spend the next month gaining all of it back.”

“Well look at me.” Eddie bragged.

“You did very well, Alpha.” Shared air was passed between them for a couple of moments, before Eddie dove down and stole all of it. When they pulled apart Buck smiled.

“I hope during yours I’ll be able to do the same.”

“You know you don’t have to-” Buck’s hand came up and covered the Alpha’s mouth.

“Don’t be stupid.” He teased me. “When am I meant to tie you up?” If Buck was secretly delighted with the growl he received, that was nobody's business.
(And if Eddie knew, that was no body’s business either)

Notes:

Y'all if I knew what this was I would tell. But unfortunately I'm running off fumes and good vibes. Love you all

Chapter 7: The hospital visit

Notes:

I lowkey crave the hospital comfort, there is something that heals my trauma lol.

(You have to say lol otherwise it's sad)

Buck wasn't on shift with them. That's probably the only reason Eddie ran into the building without Ravi by his side. It wasn't his fault, he would argue. There was a pup in there. They knew that much. What they didn't know is that they had already slipped out the back door and was wailing for her parents in the backyard.

Either way, Eddie was inside, the ceiling came down, now he's in the hospital. It was a waste of time. He was fine. Maybe a slightly dislocated shoulder. All that really mattered now was he was tired and he wanted to go home. To his pup and his Omega. Not in this stupid place. 

"You could look slightly less grumpy." Hen pointed out with a little smile. 

"I could, but then how would everyone know that I'm grumpy." Eddie challenged. "I want to go home, Hen. Not here. I'm better off there to heal."

"But they need to make sure that it's not completely dislocated." Hen sighed. "Bobby is talking to the doctor now." She reached over and squeezed his good shoulder. "The important part is that-"

"Yeah yeah, I know." Eddie huffed. "I'm in the right place and Buck doesn't know." She froze slightly in the seat. 

"Why... would that be so important?" 

"Because he would barge in here so fast." Eddie laughed. 

"Oh." She looked down. "Well, about that-"

"Edmundo Diaz!" The shouted from down the hall. He narrowed his eyes at Hen, as she stood up and walked out, hands raised. 

"Evan Buckley?" He tried softly. Buck appeared in the hospital room doorway. 

"What did you do?" He stormed into the room, the smell of angry Omega following him. It smelt like burnt caramel and smoke. He could've sworn that Buck never used to have that smokey smell. 

"I- Buck you don't understand." 

"Tell me." 

"There was a pup." The blonde man deflated slightly, his shoulders dropping. 

"And you... you had to go back in, didn't you?"

"Ravi was meant to be right behind me. I just forgot to call for him and I assume that he'd be right behind me." Buck dropped down into the seat, his eyes still wide. Eddie reached out, one hand extended to him. If Buck was still mad he could ignore it.

"Eds." Buck took his hand, raising Eddie's hand so he could kiss over his wrist. His face screwed up slightly. 

"They gave me a drug." Eddie explained. "I was still a little distressed, wasn't sure where the pup was and I was freaking out some of the nurses." Buck frowned further. "The pup is fine."

"I just want you to be fine as well."

"Come up here?" Eddie shifted to the right of the bed, opening an arm. "I know that you can't smell me, but I can smell you and I want to hold your beautiful, gorgeous self." Buck started climbing up, his chocolatey and rain on the grass smell returning slowly. His face nuzzled into Eddie's neck gently, where he would usually be able to smell Eddie the strongest. Eddie kissed his curls as Hen walked back in. 

"Hey." She said slowly, trying to gauge how mad Eddie was. 

"Come on in." Eddie teased her. "We're all made up."

"I thought it was one of those fun 'we're telling Buck' situations. Not one of those-"

"What's the alternative?" The Omega demanded, sitting up. He gave Hen a fierce look, that only served to remind the woman how strong Buck is. It wasn't common that an Omega would openly glare at an Alpha like that in public. But there was their Buck. Always going above and beyond. 

"There is no alternative." Eddie lied with a grin. "If anything you're always there anyway."

"I wasn't this time." Buck sighed. 

"Which wasn't your fault." Eddie quickly interjected, before his mate could spiral any further. "You were covering for Marcus. You were doing a good thing." Buck let out another sighed, before kissing Eddie neck. "How was the day with Christopher? Was he good for you?"

"He's always good." They chuckled for a few moments. "There was only one tantrum but even then I explained why we couldn't eat pancakes for lunch and dinner." 

"That would be great." Eddie groaned. "Actually, any food sounds good right about now." Buck sat up fully, starting to shuffle away.

"No no." Eddie grabbed his waist, physically pulling him into his side. "I don't want you to move."

"I'll get you some food." Hen said, startling them both slightly. "Yes, that's right. I'm still here. What do you want?"

"Anything, please Hen. And some M&Ms." The paramedic moved out towards the door, swapping with a nurse.

"Edmundo Diaz? I'm Ariana, your RN."

"Eddie is fine." He smiled, looking down towards the Omega. "Test time?"

"You guessed it." She smiled at them both. "You're welcome to come with us." She spoke to Buck, who had sat up with red cheeks. "Do you feel up to walking or would you like me to grab a wheelchair. 

"Wheelchair."

"I can walk." Eddie said at the same time as Buck. The nurse giggled slightly.

"I'll grab a chair." She left, leaving Eddie to try and level Buck with a disapproving look.

"You know I don't like them pushing me around. I don't like relying on them like that." Buck leaned forward, cupping Eddie's cheek and kissing him. 

"I'm going to push you, how about that? Let your Omega do something for you, Alpha?" He had the full big blues going as well. Eddie tried to look unimpressed, but Buck knew that he already had Eddie wrapped around his finger. 

"Really?"

"I could do it in Spanish too?" Eddie laughed properly at that, kissing Buck hard, before shifting towards him. 

"Cheater." It took half an hour between Buck pushing him up to the X-Ray and the scan showing his shoulder was just inflamed, not dislocated. By that point the drugs were wearing off and Buck could smell how upset Eddie was. When they returned to the room to wait for the discharge paperwork, Eddie was fully upset, starting to pace the room. 

"Eddie." Buck muttered, shifting to lie on the bed. "Eds." He repeated. The Alpha stopped, looking over towards the Omega. "Can you come over here?" This was a slightly dirty move, and had Eddie not just come off a 48 hour shift or at full health it wouldn't have worked. "I'm feeling a little disregulated." Eddie rushed over, shifting Buck so he was leaning against Eddie's chest. He started humming, kissing Buck's head and face. 

"We'll leave soon." He promised. "As soon as the paperwork is through. We've got the next 24 off. We can keep Chris home from school and-"

"He needs to go to school." Buck chuckled. 

"He's in early primary school. He'll be ok if he misses one day of colours." Buck laughed again. "Come're gorgeous." Buck leaned up, kissing him softly. "Feeling better?"

"I would feel better if we were at home."

"I would too." Eddie hummed. 

"Well I have great news." Ariana walked in. She handed over an envelope that Buck knew was their ticket out of there. 

"Thank you." He said sincerely.

"Anytime." 

-

They walked into the house, Eddie collapsing onto the couch with a happy sigh. 

"Up." Buck knelt to help him up. "The faster you shower, the faster we can be cuddled in bed." That did sound better than sitting on the couch alone. Buck went to relieve their neighbour (the quickest help Buck could find at short notice) as Eddie went and showered. Once he was done, he stepped out, listening to Buck cleaning the kitchen. He couldn't help it. He went and peaked his head into Christopher's room. 

"Daddy?" The small boy shifted, one eye barely peaking open. 

"Oh mijo." He muttered. Eddie walked in, pulling the door half shut behind him. "Didn't mean to wake you." He knelt by the bed, happily accepting Christopher's sleepy movement towards him. 

"Daddy stay?"

"I can't stay in here." Eddie chuckled softly. Chris' hands tightened around Eddie's neck. "You wanna come with me to our room?" 

"Yes yes." Christopher started kicking down his blanket. Eddie scooped the child up tight, leaving his crutches and glasses. 

"Let's get Buck first." Eddie muttered soothingly, carrying Christopher towards the kitchen. "Baby?" Buck spun, smiling gently. He had those heart eyes that Eddie couldn't believe at first. "Bed?"

"Yes please." Buck walked around and checked all the doors, before heading down the hallway. Eddie was already under the blankets, Christopher laying on his chest. 

"I love you guys so much." Buck muttered softly, trying to maintain the soft atmosphere that Eddie was creating. Christopher sniffed in his seat, his head picking up slightly and reaching blindly for Buck. The blonde climbed into bed, running his wrist over Chris' back and Eddie's pillow. 

"Oh gorgeous." Eddie reached for him, tugging him in for a soft kiss. 

"I love you, Evan."

"I love you too Edmundo."

Chapter 8: Maybe the Rain Ain't So Damn Bad

Notes:

Yes, I am updating twice in one night, no I don't want to hear about it Makayla.
I couldn't fit the lightning strike in the timeline so we're pretending that it didn't happen.

It was raining in LA. Not just the kind of light pitter patter of the rain, a proper storm. Buck was sleeping with his back to Eddie's chest, eyes flicking open. The window was wide open. He went to shift and move across the room, but Eddie's arm was tight around his waist. Eddie kissed Buck's neck.

"Where are you going, carino?" He hummed, mostly asleep.

"I'll be back in just one second." Buck wasn't a huge fan of the rain. The white noise was weirdly something that he couldn't get his head around. He tried it a few years ago, trying to find out if it would help him only focus on one train of thought at a time. It did not. He shut the window, before climbing back into bed. He let the soft spice smell of Eddie fill his sinuses.

"You're back." Eddie hummed happily.

"'Course I am." Buck pulled the covers over his shoulder and letting out a long breath.

-

Eddie woke up after an hour, eyes cracking open. He could faintly hear the sound of rain against the roof. The window was shut? He shifted, moving backwards. Buck whined slightly, starting to move backwards towards his retreating heat. 

"Hang on, love." Eddie got out of bed, only flinching slightly when his bare feet hit the cold ground. It didn't help that they slept in their boxes, preferring the skin to skin over the extra heat. He cracked the window, letting the sound and smell of the rain filled the room. It reminded him of Buck's scent. Every time it rained now he liked to sit outside. Nothing that nature created could match up to the smell straight from the source. Eddie climbed back into bed, cuddling up against Buck's back.

"Eds." He whispered softly. 

"Darlin'." He breathed, just as soft. He tucked his head into the crook of Buck's shoulder and neck. He inhaled in a manner that could never be considered polite, but he got what he wanted. Buck huffed, still not fully awake. "I love you." Buck was already back asleep. 

-

When Buck woke in the morning the window was open. He sat up, confused. He thought he remembered waking up and closing it. Maybe that was all a half asleep daze. They were both guilty of talking without fully waking up.

"Aye, my love, what're you doing?" Eddie had one eye open, reaching for Buck. They didn't have to move this morning, they were just relaxing before getting things done this afternoon. 

"I had the weirdest dream." Buck turned, tucking his head into Eddie's chest with a little smile. 

"What was it?" Eddie asked conversationally, kissing Buck's hair. "Tell me about it." He requested, squeezing Buck's waist. 

"Ok so I swear that I woke up in the middle of the night." Buck started. "And the rain had woken me up, so I went to go close the window." He continued, ignoring Eddie's chuckle. "But then I just got back in bed. Then when I woke up this morning-"

"It was open again?" Eddie half guessed. 

"Yeah." Buck breathed, his head poking up with amazement. 

"I did that." He teased. 

"Why?" Buck frowned. "When?"

"You spoke to me and everything." Eddie gently pulled back down to cup Buck's head. He inhaled so gently that Buck's scent was as natural as breathing. 

"Oh."

"I like it." Eddie smiled. "You know your scent smells like the rain? Texas rainstorm and fresh, warm caramel. It's not often that I have either of those existing in my world." 

"Maybe we should go to Texas this year?"

"That sounds amazing." Eddie grinned. "I'm sorry that I open the window." 

"It's for a cute reason." Buck pouted.

"So I'm forgiven?"

"Oh yeah." Buck sat up and shuffled, kissing Eddie. They lay together long enough that Buck thought Eddie had fallen back asleep. 

"Do you really want to go to Texas?" Eddie whispered. "You know my family has never been supportive of me or my choices. If you meet them and they don't like you then it's not personal." 

"I've met them before."

"Not as..." Eddie stopped talking, smiling gently at Buck's face. "You know."

"You wouldn't... want to... change anything would-"

"Don't even entertain that idea." Eddie interrupted. "Never. No one. Ever. Will ever. Change my mind." Buck went red, ducking his head again. 

"You promise?" He whispered into Eddie's collarbone. He kissed Eddie's mating mark, as if reassuring himself. 

"I pinky promise." Eddie raised his finger, letting Buck hook them together. "So we're going to Texas?"

"Yeah let's do it." 

"Texas?" Christopher appeared in the doorway. 

"Yeah buddy." Buck opened his arm for the pup to join their cuddle. "How does that sound?" 

"We're going together?" Chris looked down at Buck, reaching out and gripping their shirts together. "Buck is coming with us right?" Eddie opened his mouth to assure him when Christopher continued. "I don't think we should go places without Buck anymore." Buck started giggling, rolling away from him. 

"I think-" that we were fine without Buck? That we don't need Buck? That Buck doesn't need us? None of that was right. If anything, it was the opposite. Without Buck, Eddie was worried his very heart would fall apart. "You're very right." 

"Yay!" Chris smiled. "We should go today!"

"We can't go today." Eddie laughed at his son's enthusiasm. Buck grabbed him and gently tackled him into another hug. Once he started tickling Christopher, they were all laughing. 

"Why not?" Christopher asked softly, once he had caught his breath. 

"We have to go on a plane, remember?" Eddie offered. 

"I mean, Buck turned to look over his shoulder. "We could do a road trip. Might be cheaper than flying?" Eddie frowned, thinking of the seventeen hour drive time. "We could stop in Tucson?  I heard there's a mini Time Machine museum." 

"Museum?" Christopher perked up. Eddie's fondness smelt like whiskey on a warm summer night. 

"That sounds perfect." Eddie leaned over and kissed Buck's head, before shifting to lie half on Buck to kiss Christopher. Buck let out a comical groan, lightly shoving at the Alpha. 

"So... heavy..." He faked another groan, barely pushing at Eddie's chest. Christopher started giggling, reaching up to try and help Buck push him off. 

"Alpha too strong for weak little creatures." Eddie shifted again, lying more on Buck and pinning Christopher gently. 

"Ah!" Christopher faked a cry out, reaching for Buck. "Help me!"

"I've got it." Buck snapped his fingers comically. "Kill him with kisses." Buck hauled the Alpha up gently, kissing over his face. Christopher giggled harder, rolling onto his side. Eddie sat up, his smile taking over his whole face. Buck loved him when he was like this. No guard, no fairness. The lines around his eyes portrayed every ounce of happiness. It seemed to radiate out of him. 

"Love you both." 

"We love you too."

Chapter 9: The Club

Summary:

Eddie goes to the club without Buck. Which is all fun and games until he doesn't smell like his Omega anymore.

Notes:

Hi! If you want to read about their trip to Texas, it's a seperate story! You can find it on my page under "Road Trips To Remember." Sorry if that's confusing!

Buck loved his Alpha. He loved that Eddie had found a new part of himself and that he was out in the world expressing himself. But tonight, he was exhausted. They’d come off a twenty four hour shift together and for some reason Buck just couldn’t nap. Which meant that when they were meant to start getting ready to go out clubbing, the Omega could barely pull himself off the couch. 

“Eds?” He asked, more into the living room than directed at the man. Still, he seemed to appear out of thin air, just like any time Buck called out for him. 

“Yes my love?” Eddie leaned down to kiss his hair. 

“How would you feel if you cancelled your Tia and I stayed with Chris tonight?” Buck looked at him through his lashes. The small boy was somewhere in his room so he didn’t hear the promise of Buck staying with him. 

“You don’t want to come out?” Eddie clarified. 

“I just…” Buck looked away, the gut wrenching fear he was letting down his partner starting to creep in. Eddie knelt right in front of him, a gentle hand steering him back. 

“You don’t have to explain yourself.” Eddie promised. “I’ll stay with you.”

“No.” Buck replied immediately. “I know you were really excited about trying that new club with the guys. I want you to go and have fun.” Eddie was reading his face. Buck could tell because he always got a slightly pinched look. Buck let him. 

“Ok.” Eddie nodded. “I won’t be late.”

“You take as much time as you want.” Buck leaned up, only to pull Eddie down with him for a kiss. “And you keep your ring on.” He teased him. The Alpha frowned at that, kissing him again, one of his hands sliding up his chest to hold his neck. 

“I never take it off.” Which wasn’t strictly true. They had carbon bands they wore at work and some activities weren’t worth risking the metal. But it made Buck blush, which made Eddie happy. 

“And wear a low cut top. I want everyone to see this.” Buck traced his own finger along the bite mark at the base of Eddie’s neck. 

“Hell yeah, baby.” Eddie winked. 

“Dad!” Christopher called out from his room. Buck was still thrilled at the name, so he grinned at Eddie before sitting himself up and stretching. 

“Be there in a sec!” 

“Are you sure you don’t want Tia to take him? I love our pup but-”

“No, I want him to stay with me.” Buck wandered out of the room. “Hello!” He comically waved at Christopher as he walked in. He scooped Chris off the ground, carrying him back to where Eddie was sitting in the living room. 

“Hello Papa!” Christopher offered his toothy grin. 

“So mijo, there has been a change of plans.” Eddie started. The pup looked between his parents, the same slightly concerned look on his face that Buck gets. For a child that isn’t biologically related to Buck, you could really fool Eddie most days. “You know how your Tia was going to come stay with you tonight?” 

“Yeah? Because you and Buck were going to go out and be grown ups.” Christopher recited. Eddie chuckled a little, before looking back to the Omega for another confirmation. 

“Well I’m actually going to stay here with you, instead.” Buck explained. “Is that alright?” 

“Yay!” Christopher dove at him, almost strangling him with his hug. “Papa isn’t staying?”

“Well I’ll still be here to put you to bed.” Eddie said again. “But no, I’m going to go out at night. Then I’ll be back by the time you wake up.” Chris nodded to himself. 

“That’s ok then.” Christopher concluded. Buck chuckled, kissing the boy’s head.

“You have the pup’s permission.” Buck assured Eddie as they shared a smile. “We love you kid.”

“I love you too Daddy.” Chris grinned at them both. 

-

Buck never slept all that well without Eddie next to him. Which was a funny habit they picked up before they bonded… Now it was a lot easier. But it means that after Buck had crashed just after eight, he’d already slept for five hours when he woke to the sound of the front door. He nearly drifted back off right away, before his brain realised what that meant. The front door meant Eddie was home. His Alpha. He sat up in the dark, happily awaiting the armful of Alpha he was about to get. The bedroom door opened quietly, but then Eddie all but fell through. 

“Smooth.” Buck whispered, a little smile already playing on his face. Eddie sat up, eyes looking around. Buck’s eyes were well adjusted to the dark, but Eddie had probably just walked past Chris’ night light. 

“Hey baby.” Eddie melted a little, sliding to his feet and climbing onto the bed. Buck let himself get pushed down so Eddie could kiss along his face and neck. “Need you to scent me.” He breathed, kissing Buck’s neck more. Buck couldn’t figure out whether to laugh or groan. 

“What happened?” He teased, but now Eddie was in his space he could smell. Eddie smelt like… other people . That didn’t sit well with him. He pushed up on his leg, rolling onto Eddie in the middle of the bed. 

“Oh this is much better.” Eddie hummed, holding Buck’s hips and leaning up to kiss him. “God baby there were people everywhere. You would’ve loved it. Or they would’ve loved you. I would’ve hated it.” Buck laughed into Eddie’s neck.

“Yeah? Your Alpha wouldn’t like all the eyes on me.”

“Never does.” Eddie scoffed. “He’s gotta learn to chill. You’re too fucking cute for me to let you out of the house.” Buck laughed again, mostly because sober Eddie would never say this out loud. “Smell too fucking good. You should’ve seen this woman Buck.” Eddie started rambling. “She got all in my personal space before stumbling back because you staked your claim.”

“All mine.” Buck smirked. 

“All yours.” Eddie agreed. “Baby, I need to shower.”

“Yeah you smell awful.” Buck dropped onto his side, landing back in the warm spot he’d made earlier. 

“What do you think you’re doing?” Eddie muttered with a frown. 

“Going back to sleep.” Buck laughed. 

“No.” The Alpha scoffed. “You’re coming to shower with me.” Eddie stood up, moving around to Buk’s side of the bed. He leaned down, scooping Buck onto his shoulder and simply standing and walking to the bathroom. Buck covered his mouth before he could laugh too loud. 

“Eddie.” He whispered, scolding quietly. 

“Evan.” Eddie put him on his feet, holding Buck’s face in his hands. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of The Bond