Chapter Text
“What time do you think you’ll be able to leave the clinic? Dinner is at 7 but I want to make sure we have enough time to get ready so we can go out after!” Alessandra squealed to Feyre from her room across the hall.
Feyre affectionately rolled her eyes and smiled as she said, “I should be walking out the door by 4:30, as long it doesn’t take long to clean after the last kids leave. You’re sure you’re fine with Tamlin tagging along?”
“Of course! He’s part of the group, it wouldn’t be complete without him. My dad will be joining us, too, so Tamlin won’t be the only guy there.”
Feyre couldn’t help but feel excited for her roommate- it was her 30th birthday after all. The girls had been planning this for months - all in a vain attempt to avoid a Joey Tribbiani style breakdown at Alessandra’s milestone birthday.
Feyre finished gathering her things, gave herself a final once over, shouted her departure to Alessandra and rushed out the door to begin her day at the clinic.
***
Feyre checked her watch as she approached Velaris Behavioral Health Center and decided she had just enough time for a cold brew before beginning the day’s work.
“Good morning, Alis, how are you today?” Feyre asked as she approached the woman at the counter.
“Living the dream, Feyre, living the dream. Your usual today?” The woman replied.
“You know me too well, Alis.” She said through a smile as she paid.
Feyre appreciated the familiarity of the Stardust Coffee Co, housed in the office building where not only the behavioral health center was, but other non-profit organizations operated too. Alis was a cornerstone of the establishment - she’s been with the owners since their days of delivering coffee on their bikes to people all around town. She brought her own touch to the space, having provided decor from her own personal connection that had been owned by her family for generations. The cozy seating, rustic decor and books on every surface made the space feel like a safe haven.
She was so lost in her reverie, it took Alis all but waving her hands and calling “Earth to Feyre” before the younger woman realized her order was ready for her.
“Sorry Alis, I guess I need this cold brew more than I realized.”
“You’re fine dear, I’m happy to help. Have a great day at the center, and have even more fun tonight,” she said as she sent her off with a wink.
She was still in a daze of her own because as she turned to leave, she narrowly avoided running right into someone and spilling her drink all over them.
She had barely gotten the words, “I’m so sorry,” out of her mouth as her eyes drifted up to the face of the most beautiful man she had ever seen.
Feyre couldn’t get the rest of the words out but instead, stood there with no doubt a doe-eyed look and her mouth opening and closing as she tried to formulate her apology.
The man just chuckled as he said, “No apology necessary. I was walking and texting, I’m a hazard to myself and everyone around me. I’m just glad your coffee is safe and sound - a spilled coffee can never be a sign of a good day ahead.”
Feyre finally collected herself to take in the rest of this man - this kind, handsome man. She guessed he was in his 50s, the slightest hint of salt and pepper around his temples while the rest of his curls were trimmed with one stubbornly laying on his forehead. He had sharp features, a warm, bronze tan and a build of someone who, despite his age, still worked out regularly. Fuck, he wasn’t just handsome. He was hot.
What struck her most were his eyes, which were a shade of blue that can barely be called as such - in fact, if she wasn’t mistaken they were violet. Feyre felt as if there was something familiar about his features, but she couldn’t quite place them.
It dawned on her that he had responded, and she was still staring at him in a way that was no longer socially acceptable for someone recovering from the shock of almost running face first into another person.
Feyre cleared her throat and said, “All good, we all have our moments. Still, though, I shouldn’t be trying to rush with a beverage in my hands.” she huffed a breath and flashed him a meek smile.
Something like amusement flashed in his eyes. “We’re all guilty of being in our heads from time to time, darling. Do you come here often? I can’t seem to decide what to get.”
She flushed momentarily, feeling heat slightly pool in her center at the use of the word “darling,” then tried to slip into an easy smile as she responded with, “I’m here nearly everyday, it’s one of my favorite spots. I prefer a cold brew with oat milk and lavender, though I know that’s considered “unconventional” by some. I like the subtlety of the lavender. It brings a light, sweet flavor while not punching you in the face with sugar. Alis makes her own lavender syrup and I swear it’s the best I’ve ever had.” Feyre cringed internally at her rambling. She couldn’t help it; it came naturally when talking about the coffee shop that has become her daily ritual.
She also may have been distracted by the fact that he was still talking to her and she couldn’t understand why. This was especially since she didn’t feel like she looked anything spectacular today. In fact, knowing that she would have to go through the gauntlet to get ready tonight to celebrate Alessandra, she did the bare minimum this morning, opting to take an everything shower and let her hair dry.
The mystery-man simply nodded and smiled as he replied, “Unconventional is perhaps a good word for it, but if you revere it so highly, it may be worth giving a try.” He remarked with a pointed emphasis on “you” and a feline smirk.
“By the way, I’m R-“ he was cut off with the sound of Feyre’s phone, her heart leaping into her throat as she was finally pulled out of the violet trance she was just in.
“Shit, I’m sorry, that’s my boss I gotta go.” She put her phone to her ear, turned around without another glance back and hurried through the double doors to begin her day.
***
Rhysand’s brow furrowed as he studied the email on his screen. He’d read and re-read the message and still couldn’t decide how to best respond. He knew the only fix would be some caffeine, which he was on his way to do when -
“I’m so sorry” squeaked a woman he just barely avoided running into and causing to spill her coffee.
He’s grateful for the almost-accident though, because the woman standing in front of him is quite possibly the most stunning creature he’s ever seen. He quickly shakes off the shock of nearly bowling her over, resets with a laugh as he responds to her apology with one of his own. “No apology necessary. I was walking and texting, I’m a hazard to myself and everyone around me. I’m just glad your coffee is safe and sound - a spilled coffee can never be a sign of a good day ahead.”
Something about her felt familiar, but he couldn’t put his finger on why. Rhys tried to not make it obvious he was checking her out, but if he was being honest with himself, he couldn’t help it. She had the most beautiful clear-blue eyes, set above a constellation of freckles. Her lips formed a lovely bow-shaped smile and her face was framed by loose blonde waves he might like to run his fingers through.
She was young. Possibly too young, by some people’s standards but old enough to that Rhys felt confident he could have a chance. It was impossible to say if she would care that he was probably old enough to be her dad -
Rhys had to shake the thought from his head; he’d only just met this person. He cleared his mind to pay attention to the woman in front of him just as she cleared her throat to say, “All good, we all have our moments. Still, though, I shouldn’t be trying to rush with a beverage in my hands.”
Rhysand could see the beginnings of a blush forming in her apple cheeks. Oh, so maybe some reciprocated feelings.
He finally got his head cleared enough to continue their back and forth. “We’re all guilty of being in our heads from time to time, darling. Do you come here often? I can’t seem to decide what to get.” Rhysand didn’t understand why he slipped in the “darling,” but something about her just screamed it.
Her eyes went wide before she visibly relaxed and responded with, “I’m here nearly everyday, it’s one of my favorite spots. I prefer a cold brew with oat milk and lavender, though I know that’s considered “unconventional” by some. I like the subtlety of the lavender. It brings a light, sweet flavor while not punching you in the face with sugar. Alis makes her own lavender syrup and I swear it’s the best I’ve ever had.”
He could listen to her talk for hours, he was sure of it. “Unconventional is perhaps a good word for it, but if you revere it so highly, it may be worth giving a try.” He flashed her his best smile as he began to introduce himself. “By the way, I’m R-“
The young woman’s phone trilled with whatever default ringtone came on iPhones and she breathlessly exclaimed, “Shit, I’m sorry, that’s my boss I gotta go.”
And then she was through the double doors without another look back. Rhys would be lying if he said it didn’t deflate him some to not even get her name before she ran off, but he remembered she mentioned she came here almost daily.
As he made his way to the counter to give his order, and try to subtly inquire about the woman, his phone also trilled, with the name Amren appearing on the screen. He knew she was not to be sent to voicemail, so with one last look at the counter, he sighed, answered with a blunt “Amren” and left the building.
***
“Would you like to use paint or pastels today?” Feyre asked the 8 year old in front of her.
He stared at both mediums, debating the options in front of him. Feyre waited patiently, because she knew that it was a big deal to even get Jonathan to this point. She knew that Jonathan had been working on emotional regulation when decision making, and so for him to stay this calm when making a decision that didn’t involve Fortnite or Legos was huge.
“Paint. With water.” Feyre beamed at him - she couldn’t be more proud that he not only chose a medium but he was more specific about this choice, opting for watercolors. She didn’t care that it was what they used last week - she’s just glad that he’s verbalizing what he wants without a meltdown.
“Using the paint with water today would be perfect. Now, do you want to get the supplies out or choose the music?” She knew that giving him tasks with choices also helped him stay invested in their session - so even if she was stuck listening to whatever KidzBop cover he wanted, she knew it was making a difference in his life.
“Get the supplies out,” he confidently replied.
“That would be great, Jonathan. I know you know where everything is, go ahead and get what you need to get started. Remember to set out your flags to let me know when you’re ready for me.”
The center where Feyre worked focused on kids, mostly 14 and younger who had displayed extreme behaviors in the classroom. Oftentimes, these kids experienced food insecurity, transience, and even abuse. The stories some of them told were all too familiar to Feyre, which was why when a position as a part time aide in their arts wing opened up, she stopped what she was doing to apply.
She was currently in grad school, pursuing a masters in art therapy at Velaris University. Her own experience growing up shaped what she wanted to pursue in life. She’s grateful she was able to combine her talent and her love of art with making a difference in the world.
It wasn’t easy getting to this point. In fact, everyday was still a struggle to feel like she was on the right path. It didn’t help that not everyone, including her boyfriend, saw the value in what she was doing. It wasn’t that he didn’t support her, because he definitely did, it’s just that he was a city councilman and was working to make the whole city, not just one life, better. Truthfully, she had Tamlin to thank for even getting to this point. Their relationship had been one of stability, despite some ups and downs. Over the years, Feyre felt ultimately thankful for the man and his place in her life.
Feyre remembered she needed to let Tamlin know the details of tonight, so when she saw that Jonathan was occupied, she started the music and sent off a quick text.
10:32
Feyre: Hey Tam, I meant to call you on my way to the clinic but didn’t get a chance - just wanted to let you know that dinner is at 7:00 at Sevenda’s and Rita’s is right after. See you tonight 😘
10:40
Tamlin: Sounds great - I look forward to seeing you both tonight..
Feyre slipped her phone away so she could devote her attention to Jonathan, who was busy painting what looked like the school playground. She saw he had his green flag up, which meant he was ready for her to come and check on him.
“Hey Jonathan, how’s it going so far?” Feyre asked.
“Good, I really like this one. I love the playground, especially the swings.”
“That’s great Jonathan, why do you like the swings most?”
“I like kicking my feet to go higher and higher - I can go the highest out of all the kids in my class!”
“I bet you don’t even need help from a teacher to get started, your legs are so strong and can push you up really high.”
He nodded vigorously at this, a smile hinting at his lips. He continued his intense focus on his painting as Feyre set the countdown timer in front of him to let him know he has 10 minutes left and to start adding his finishing touches. She knows that the visual timer helps him transition from one thing to another, and it was especially important on days where he was really invested in his work.
As Jonathan painted, Feyre worked on her own piece and let her mind wander. Her thoughts of course drifted back to the violet-eyed stranger she met this morning. She couldn’t get over how, even in the 5-minute interaction, his attention was wholly and completely on her. He seemed fascinated by her nerve-ridden rambling, as if everything she said contained the secrets of the world. It was hard to reflect on the interaction and not have her mind… go there. He was older, yes that much was apparent. But he was also hot. Like stupid hot. It’s not to say that she was unhappy with Tamlin because that definitely wasn’t the case - she was in love with him. But Feyre was stuck on the way the older man’s presence made her feel, above all. She felt seen… Relaxed. Respected.
She also couldn’t nag the feeling that she knew him. How, she couldn’t remember. She would remember if he was a parent of one of her clients - certain he would be a regular point of discussion amongst the other clinic staff.
Feyre was broken out of her musings when she heard the telltale beep beep of the timer on Jonathan’s workstation. She helped him tidy up, pack, and get out the door with a “See you next week Miss Feyre!”
The rest of the day ticked by slowly for Feyre. In between clients, Feyre spent her time completing paperwork and reports - all to be reviewed by Dr. Suriel, who she was studying under. When she didn’t have clinic paperwork, Feyre completed her class notes in an effort to be prepared for the next class meeting. She couldn’t afford to get behind on her classwork, not since her scholarship was largely contingent on her making good grades. Working and full-time classwork was a lot to juggle, on top of maintaining a social life with friends and her boyfriend of 6 years, Tamlin.
With Feyre getting closer to finishing her program, her ability to split her time evenly steadily decreased. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to spend time with him or her friends, it’s just that trying to remain in good academic standing and get the most out of the part time job meant that she wouldn’t always be present. Some days she felt like she was handling it all well and some days… Well some days were just days.
***
Rhys was trying to focus on his meetings, he really was. After his call with Amren, he headed straight to the office to deal with the latest fire cropping up with the merger he’s spent the last 6 months working on.
He was trying to listen to his chief legal counsel, Thesan, but he couldn’t get her face out of his mind. She just looked so earnest… And kind. Rhys spent his days surrounded by suits, however a few minutes with her had him feeling alive for the first time in… He can’t remember when.
She was nervous, but so was he. She’s utterly beautiful, and the few chuckles he had a chance of hearing sent his heart soaring. He made a note to himself to stop by the coffee shop tomorrow morning with the hope of at most, seeing her again and at the very least, asking the barista for her name. Though, the latter would probably come across creepy -
“Rhys, any questions about our Q1 numbers?”
“No, not at all, proceed.” Rhys knew he was completely and utterly whipped by this woman, and he didn’t even know her name.
***
Before Feyre knew it, it was 4:30 and time to make the trek back home.
She took her time, opting to walk along the Sidra to take in the scenes of spring. It was still brisk for April, but Feyre knew that by the time her semester was over, they would be enjoying balmy days again. For now, she admired the buds on the trees and the slightest appearance of daffodils encircling each of the trees that lined the cobblestone walkway.
Before she knew it, she was walking through the familiar front door of their shared townhouse. She followed the sounds of Taylor Swift to find Alessandra dancing as she fixed her raven-colored locks.
“Feyre!” She exclaimed. “Finally, I can pre-game properly. Here, champagne, since I’m now thirty, flirty, and thriving,” Alessandra said while putting on a sultry face and shoving a wine glass filled with champagne into Feyre’s hands.
She wasn’t sure if that was such a good idea, since Feyre had but a few bites at lunch and was certain the bubbly drink would go straight to her head. But, as she heard her favorite words “Are you ready for it?” Feyre decided she didn’t care too much and would indulge her friend.
The women crowded into their shared bathroom which looked like a Sephora exploded and spared not a single product and continued their ritual of pre-gaming to the soundtrack of Taylor, Beyoncé, Sabrina, and Charli.
“Feyre, I’m so excited you’re meeting my dad tonight. It’s probably cheesy to be friends with your dad, but he and I have always been close. Not being able to see him over the last year has made me miss him more. He’s big into art, I think he’ll really appreciate what you do and what you’re studying.”
Feyre couldn’t help but smile and blush at the compliment. “He’s special to you, and this is a special day. I’m excited to be part of it.”
***
By 6:45, Feyre transformed from clean, if bland, grad student to what Alessandra referred to as a “bombshell babe.” If Feyre was being honest with herself, she would have to agree. Tonight, she was sporting a loose braid with curled pieces framing her face. She lined her eyes, applied mascara, a faint blush and highlight, and painted her lips with her signature red. In honor of the birthday girl, Feyre was wearing a midnight blue dress that had just the faintest shimmer overlay that resembled the night sky. The piece was long sleeved, to accommodate the still brisk conditions, but hit her at the mid-thigh and hugged her in just the right places. She decided to wear Alessandra’s silver-sparkle boots she had bought for one of the concerts they went to in the last year.
Yeah, “bombshell babe” was probably the correct term.
Compared to the woman of the hour though, Feyre was truly a close second. Alessandra opted to go for a white bodycon dress that, dispute it’s snugness, still left much to the imagination. She paired her outfit with gold accessories, which, with her tan skin and nearly raven colored hair, was stunning.
“My dad should be here in about five minutes, I want to make sure we get some pictures first before we forget!”
And so, with the few minutes the women had left, they snapped pictures at every angle conceivable, with a few in front of their makeshift photo backdrop reserved for nights like this.
Upon hearing three knocks at the door, the women grabbed their coats and bags and made their way to the door.
Feyre was feeling anticipation, and a little tipsy, but wasn’t prepared to be met with a set of familiar violet eyes when Alessandra opened the door.
“Feyre, this is my dad, Rhysand, but you can call him Rhys. Dad, this is Feyre!”
Feyre was fucked.